Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans From Mission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 39, No. 21 © 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, March 18, 2026 TAKE HOME EDITION See pages 9-16 By Herb Moering Once again Trophy Gardens RV Resort residents presented a great turnout of entries for Alamo’s Texas Independence Day Parade celebration on March 7. The residents offered spectators the delight of ice cream in being “Alamoed” during the annual event that marks Texas gaining freedom from Mexico in 1836. The efforts did not go unnoticed by the judges who awarded the champion overall trophy and the first-place trophy to the RV park in Alamo. The overall award went to entries of two golf carts decorated INDEX WintertainersTM p 4 Parks Calendar p 5 Coupon Index p 5 Events Calendar p 8 Reunions p 8 Classifieds p 17 Business Guide p 17 Taste of the Valley p 23 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 20 The Annual Texas Onion Fest is scheduled for Saturday, March 28, in historic downtown Weslaco, from 10:15 a.m. to 10:15 p.m. There will be live music, onion eating contests, a car show, and more. Admission is free. The Texas Onion Fest celebrates the development of the world-famous Texas 1015 Onion which was developed in Weslaco at the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in 1983. It is also the state vegetable of Texas. The name of the 1015 onion came from the suggested planting date, October 15. Known for its sweet, mild flavor, it has become a Texas favorite. See ONION pg. 20 Weslaco celebrates the 1015 Onion Alamo area Winter Texans have fun in Alamo parade Welcome to our Take home edition. This issue features a pull out section in the middle that contains the biggest why’s you visit the Rio Grande Valley during the winter months. For this issue we have published extra papers so you can take a couple of copies with you on your travels to your northern homes. We want you to share with your friends why you visit the Rio Grande Valley. What makes the RGV special to you? We wouldn’t mind hearing more from you either. This past week, I also sent out a note asking for photos and information about activities that have been happening at the parks this season. I had several respond to this email and there will be a couple of those in this issue, and a lot more in our last issue on March 25. So be sure to watch and see what Winter Texans have been doing at their parks and in their communities. See ALAMO pg. 24 Celebrate the 1015 Onion at Weslaco’s Onion Fest. (Photo by Herb Moering) The parade’s first place trophy was shown off by Trophy Gardens RV Resort participants for their many “Alamoed” entries. (Photo by Herb Moering)
MARCH 18, 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com 2 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Physicians are independent practitioners who, with limited exceptions, are not employees or agents of South Texas Health System. The System shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 252907866-2993628 7/25 Learn more at southtexashealthsystem.com/er WE’RE EVERYWHERE You NeedUs WITH SEVEN FREESTANDING EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS AT CONVENIENT LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY, SOUTH TEXAS HEALTH SYSTEM® IS BRINGING QUALITY CARE CLOSER TO HOME. Our freestanding emergency departments are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Each location is staffed with medical personnel and equipped with diagnostic technology similar to what you would find in our facility emergency rooms, making them capable of providing care typically beyond the scope of most urgent care centers or night clinics. Six of our seven locations have received Chest Pain Management certification and Acute Stroke Ready Hospital certification from The Joint Commission. Our freestanding emergency departments also offer a wide range of health checks and screenings – with limited wait times. Diagnostic, imaging and lab appointments are available on a same-day, walk-in basis. Discounted rates are available for cash payments. 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 Call Mark Anytime At 956-357-1048 600 W EXPY 83 LA FERIA, TX Call Today For Your Free Estimate WE WANT TO BUY YOUR Winter Texan Fiesta draws a crowd Winter Texans, and converted Texans, packed the Leo Pena Placita Park on Friday, March 6 for Mission’s annual Winter Texan Fiesta. The event drew quite a crowd this year, leaving barely any space for sitting in the Placita. Many gathered around the walls to watch the entertainment. I am sure it was partly due to the great weather – although it was a bit windy, and a little warm. The lines were long for a time as attendees waited for their free shirts and free lunch. All the booths at the event were busy. There were several food, drink and treat vendors, along with several businesses. Representatives from McAllen Wind Ensemble were present and said it was a delight to hear from the Winter Texans how much many of them have enjoyed their shows this year, and how few haven’t been to a show yet. See FIESTA pg. 21 Several Winter Texans enjoyed some line dancing while Bruce Boudreau entertained the crowd gathered at the Winter Texan Fiesta. (Photo by Carina A. Brunson)
3 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 18, 2026 Fuel prices are high!!! Leave your RV with us through the summer! Ranchero Village 1900 S. Bridge Ave, Weslaco, TX 78596 (956) 968-6223 www.RancheroVillageTX.com License #MHDRET00001830 Move into an RV lot now on 6/6 plan, leave RV on lot for summer, live out rest of 6/6 plan after your return next season 6/6 plan $3,090 5 month $2,890 4 month $2,590 3 month $2,000 Calvary Baptist Church presents their Easter Cantata Join Calvary Baptist Church to celebrate the risen Jesus Christ. Calvary Baptist Church, 1600 Harvey St. in McAllen, will present the Easter musical “Love Took His Breath Away” featuring full choir with piano and orchestra under the direction of Dr. Bill O’Neil. The concerts will be on Friday, March 27, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, March 28, at 3:30 p.m. Dr. O’Neil is in his third year as Calvary Choir director and brings decades of musical experience to the choir. He has been on faculty at See CALVARY pg. 20 Calvary Choir. (Courtesy photo)
MARCH 18, 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com 4 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 1048 N. Alamo Rd. • Alamo, TX 78516 • Office: 956-783-5008 LINE DANCING WITH KEITH Mondays • 10 am - 12 pm • Improver Wednesdays • 10 am - 12 pm • Improver Thursdays • 10 am - 12 pm • Beginner CHURCH SERVICES Sundays • 9 am OPEN PICKLEBALL Thursdays • 9 am - 12 pm SATURDAY DANCES Texas Wheels • 7 - 10 pm • $10 PATIO SALE Sat. Mar. 21 • 8 am - 12 pm DANCES • 6-9PM Mar. 21 • The Cruisers • $12 Mar. 28 • Muzik • $10 Apr. 3 • Cheyenne • $10 MEALS 1645 S Bentsen Palm Drive • Palmview 956-585-0703 Red Bertolucci Activity Director ALL EVENTS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Mar. 23 • Soup Supper • 4pm Mar. 30 • Mon. Dinner • 4:30pm Mar. 18 • Wed. Breakfast • 7:30-9am Mar. 19, 26 Thur. Lunch • 11:30am-1pm Thursdays • 8:30am-12pm Lunch Available to Purchase at the Y-Cook Cafe 11:30am-1pm. Questions: Call Jeff, 618-419-0665 RC RACING HAPPY HOUR • 3-5PM Mar. 24, 4-6pm • Diego & Edith In BGR Townsquare (weather permitting). Bring your own chair. Apr. 1 • Rene from The Night Howlers BIT O HEAVEN RV & MOBILE HOME RESORT 1051 W Bus Hwy 83 • Donna,TX 78537 SUSAN THOMAS, ACTIVITY DIRECTOR 603-396-2786 TUESDAYS • HAPPY HOUR • 3-5 PM PASS THE HAT Mar 24 • Curt James Mar 31 • JerryCo Apr 7 • Bruce Boudreau Apr 14 • Curt James Soda & popcorn for sale. 50/50 & door prizes. Free ice. BYOB & snacks. FRIDAYS • DANCES • 7-10 PM Mar 20 • Vinyl Spin • $10 Mar 27 • The Fabulous Cruisers • $12 Apr 3 • TBD • $10 Apr 10 • Leslie Blasing • $10 Soda & popcorn for sale. 50/50 & door prizes. Free lite refreshments/ice. BYOB & snacks. CRAFT SHOW Mar 21 • 8am-12pm Tradewinds Craft Show 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 Wednesdays Line Dancing • 10am March 19 • Ron Moshier 7pm • $10 Mission Bell Ballroom CHURCH SERVICE Sundays • 9:30am Mission Bell Ballroom 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 Bring your family & friends Call 956-581-1033 1 Hour River Tours Tues • 1:00pm Wed • 1:00pm Thurs • 1:00pm Fri • 1:00pm Sat • 1:00pm Seniors-$13 Adults-$15 Tues-Sun • 11am-8pm OPEN (956) 581-1033 Riverside In-MissionTx Friday Fish Fry 3:00pm-7:00pm White Fish or Shrimp Dinner $14.99 Combo Dinner $15.99 Coleslaw, Baked Beans, French Fries, Hush Puppies RIVERSIDE DREAMER River Tours Call (956) 581-4477 Reserve Now for Current Week Only Additional River Tours Added as Needed Covered Cushion Seating/ Enclosed Windows & Heating No Outside Beverages or Food Allowed Private River Tour Available RELAX OUTSIDE By The Rio Grande River Don’t Leave Texas without a Boat Ride Sundays 1:30-5:30pm Live Music in Event Center Thursdays 1:00-5:00pm The Lady & The Outlaw Live Music at Riverside Club March 22 & March 29 Steven May & the Southern Knights OPEN EASTER SUNDAY Live Music 1:30-5:30pm Steven May & the Southern Knights riversideclubmission.com • 214 E. Chimney Rd. • Mission, TX For more information, photos and tour schedules visit Wintertainers TM at www.wintertexantimes.com www.wintertexantimes.com tainers Winter TM
5 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 18, 2026 COUPONS & $AVING$ Air Control A/C & Heating Inc. pg. 17 Beltone pg. 21 Biscuits & Gravy pg. 23 Lobo Del Mar Cafe pg. 23 Nikky’s Carpet Cleaning pg. 18 Ranchero Village pg. 3 Rio Valley Estates pg. 21 Studio 6 pg. 22 The Grove Farmhouse pg. 23 Tint on Wheels pg. 17 University Draft House pg. 23 Coupon Index Dan Brunson Publisher dan@wintertexantimes.com Carina Brunson Editor carina@wintertexantimes.com Anastasia Brunson Office Manager anastasia@wintertexantimes.com © Copyright 2025-2026 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. Your submissions are welcome! We are interested in news about your events, organizations, exhibits, fundraising, and more, from parks, chambers, cities, museums, and other venues. We want to see your news items, photos of recent park activities, or news story ideas about your park or park residents. Submission deadlines for calendars, news & advertising are each Thursday prior to the following Wednesday’s issue date. News, Events Calendar, & Reunion submissions must include details including who, what, where, when; point of contact including full name, email address, mailing address, and phone number. Parks Calendar submissions will only be accepted through official channels from Park Managers or Park Activity Directors. Email submissions and requests to: Advertising: ads@wintertexantimes.com News Desk: news@wintertexantimes.com Parks Calendar: parkscal@wintertexantimes.com Classified Ads: classifieds@wintertexantimes.com 1217 N. Conway, Mission, Texas 78572 (956) 580-7800 • www.wintertexantimes.com Y-Cook Cafe. Questions, call Jeff, 618-419-0665. All You Can Eat Pancakes or a Waffle - The Grove Subdivision, San Juan, 9-11am, $6pp & $7pp. Served with eggs, sausage, and coffee. Bring your own table settings. 605 E. 7th St. Chair Exercise - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 9-10am, Exercise classes led by Mary! Bring a towel, water bottle and a positive attitude. Meet people and join in on the low key, stress-less, no judgment exercise classes. Open Pickleball - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9am-Noon. Line Dancing with Keith - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10amNoon, Beginner dancer. Country Jam - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 10am-Noon, Snacks and coffee provided. Come jam with us. 2500 E. Hwy. 83. Lunch - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 11:30am-1pm. Country Jam - Quiet Village II, Donna, 12:30-3:30pm. Music Jams - We RV Champions of Rio Hondo, 1-3pm, Winter Texans enjoying instrumental music. Happy Hour - Sunshine RV Resort, Harlingen, 3:30-5:30pm. Public Meal - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 5-6:30pm, Hamburger Happy Hour. Freshly grilled hamburgers with all your favorite toppings. Price varies. Country Jam - Valley View Estates, Mission, 5:30-7:30pm, Snacks will be served at half time, donations accepted, 50/50. Hot dogs, chips, and drinks will be served at break for $5. 2100 Vernon. Acoustic Music Jam - Palm Gardens, Harlingen, 6pm. Bingo - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 6:30pm, Friendship Hall. Church Service - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, Auditorium. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Dance - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 7pm, Ron Moshier, $10pp. Mission Bell Hall. Friday, March 20 Yard Sales - Roadrunner RV Resort, Alamo, 8am-Noon, 1222 N. CeEDITOR’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, March 18 Breakfast - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 7:30-9am. Craft Sale - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 9am-Noon, 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Line Dancing with Keith - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10amNoon, Improver dancer. Wednesday Burger Fry - Chimney Park, Mission, 11am-12:30pm, Huge ½ lb. burger fry meal for $8pp. Also serving homemade southern baked beans, ¼ lb. hot dogs, sweet potato fries, chili, corn dogs, with all the fixins’, and sauces. Drinks and ice cream. On the beautiful Rio Grande River. 4224 S. Conway Ave. 956585-5061. Country Jam - Heritage Square, Mission, 1pm, Food available 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Open Music Jam - Chimney Park, Mission, 1pm, Hosted by Ron L. 4224 S. Conway Ave. Square Dance - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 6:30-9pm, MS & Plus with Rounds. $6pp. 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May & the Southern Knights, $8pp. 956-7876461. 101 E. Sioux Rd. Entertainment - We RV Champions of Rio Hondo, 7-9pm, Sting Ray Anthony Juke Box, $10pp. Thursday, March 19 RC Racing - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 8:30am-Noon, Lunch available for purchase at CALENDAR PARKS See PARKS pg. 6
MARCH 18, 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com 6 WINTER TEXAN TIMES PARKS From pg. 5 sar Chavez Rd. Public Meal - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 11:30am, Lunch. Food available while supplies last. Price varies. Country Music Jam - Casa del Sol, Donna, 12:30-3pm, Kitchen is open 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. with weekly specials. Rock Jam - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 12:30-3pm, Come and enjoy rock music! Open to all musicians, be sure to sign up. Concession will be open. Yahoo - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 1-2:30pm. Jam - Split Rail RV Park, Mission, 1-3pm, Play an instrument, sing a song, dance a little dance. Just come for an afternoon of music and friendship. Coffee, raspberry tea, and cookies will be served for a donation. Everyone is welcome. 513 N. Los Ebanos Rd. Line Dancing Lessons with Joyce - We RV Champions of Rio Hondo, 1-3pm, Learn how to line dance with music. Trail Dance Lessons - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 1pm, Beginners 1 p.m. Intermediate 2 p.m. Questions, 815-383-6783. Friday Night Fish Fry - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 4:305:30pm. Karaoke - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 5-7pm, 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Karaoke - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 5-8pm, Lounge. No outside coolers, beverages, cups or food allowed. Country Jam & Dancing - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 5:30pm, 717-877-8375 for info. Dance - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 6-9pm, Michael Flores - Southern Vibe, $10pp. Entertainment - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 6-9pm, The Fabulous Cruisers, $15pp. 7300 Monroe. Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, Steven May & the Southern Knights, $10pp. Dance - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 7pm, Texas Wheels, $8pp advance/$10pp at the door. Dance - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 7-10pm, Vinyl Spin, $10pp. Reservations required. 50/50 & door prizes. Free lite refreshments/ice. Soda & popcorn for sale. BYOB & snacks. Dance - Tropic Star RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Ron Moshier, $10pp. Dance - Fiesta Village, Mission, 7-10pm, Sweetwater, $10pp. 205 S. Stewart Rd. Dance - Winter Ranch RV Resort, Alamo, 7-10pm, Diego and Edith perform a mix of country, classic rock, oldies, and dance-friendly genres. Dance - Texas Trails RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Les Canto, $8pp. Dance - Park Place Estates, Harlingen, 7-10pm, The Howlers, $9pp adv/$10pp door. 956-412-0375. Entertainment - Winter Green Estates, Mission, 7pm, Men & Women of A-Chord, $7pp. Singing Barbershop Harmony with a mixed chorus of men & women, and some quartets during the break. 500 N. Bryan Rd. Saturday, March 21 Breakfast - Eldorado Acres RV Park, Palmview, 7-9am. Saturday Breakfast - Paradise Park, McAllen, 8-9am, Available for purchase. Paradise Park Clubhouse. Please bring your tableware, silverware and coffee cup. 100 E. Hackberry Ave. Saturday Breakfast - Chimney Park, Mission, 8-10am, Huge full breakfast menu, $8pp. 4224 S. Conway Ave. 956-585-5061. Breakfast - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 8-9:30am, Pancakes, 3 kinds of egg bake, biscuits and gravy, sausage spicy or mild, ham, or bacon, and applesauce, $7pp. 2500 E. Hwy. 83. Patio Sale - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 8am-Noon. Yard Sales - Roadrunner RV Resort, Alamo, 8am-Noon, 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Craft Show - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 8am-Noon, Tradewinds. Craft Show - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 9am-Noon, 956-7876461. 101 E. Sioux Rd. Craft Fair - Fun N Sun Resort, San Benito, 9am-Noon. Plus Square Dance Review - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 9-11am, $5pp. 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Craft Show Lunch - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 11:30am-12:30pm, $. 956-787-6461. 101 E. Sioux Rd. Rock & Roll Jam - Chimney Park, Mission, Noon-2pm, With The Howlers. Lunches available 11 a.m.- 12 p.m. Fantastic Jam. Weather permitting we will play on our Outdoor Stage. Hosted by Keith K. Keith. chimneypark@outlook.com, 785230-1469. Please submit your music to him at least a week ahead of time. 4224 S. Conway Ave. Country Jam - Green Gate Grove, Palmview, 12:30-2:30pm, Open to all musicians in the RGV are. Held in the hall. Big Band Jam - Trail’s End RV Park, Weslaco, 1-3pm, Come hear your favorite RGV Musicians play your favorite Big Band Era tunes (with some Country and Polkas added in)! Musicians by invite only. Contact Les Aldrich, 319-238-3914, if interested. Karaoke with Andrew - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 6-9pm, Free. Dance - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 6-9pm, The Cruisers, $12pp. Check ticket availability with activity office. Entertainment - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 6-9pm, Gatos Locos, $10pp. 7300 Monroe. Dance - Trophy Gardens, Alamo, 7-10pm, Vinyl Spin, $9pp. 800 State Hwy. 495. Bingo - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 7-9pm, Doors open 6:30 p.m. 1402 S. Cage Blvd. Dance - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 7-10pm, Texas Wheels, $10pp. Entertainment - Split Rail RV Park, Mission, 7-9pm, Denim & Lace, $10pp. Variety of genres including country, rock & roll, as well as 50s/60s. Concessions will be open for purchase. BYOB, free ice, 50/50 drawing. 513 N. Los Ebanos Rd. Dance - Quiet Village II, Donna, 7-10pm, Last Wolf, $10pp at the door. BYOB. Soda, water, and snacks available to purchase. We now have extra parking! Country Dance - El Valle Del Sol, Mission, 7pm, Steven May and The Southern Knights, $9pp. BYOB. Snacks available for purchase. 2500 E. Hwy. 83. Sunday, March 22 Church - Fiesta Village, Mission, 8:30am, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Church Service - Hidden Valley Ranch RV & MH Park, Mission, 8:30am, Fellowship 8:30 a.m. Service 9 a.m. Non-Denominational Church Service - San Juan Gardens, 9am, 900 E. Bus. Hwy. 83. Church Service - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 9-10am, 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Bible Studies & Prayer - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 9am, Activity Building. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Church Services - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 9am. Lutheran Christian Church Service - Restful Valley Ranch, Mission, 9-10am, Coffee hour 8 a.m. Everyone is welcome. Bible Class starts in January. Church - Rio Valley Estates MH & RV Resort, Weslaco, 9am, Non-denominational. Communion on first Sunday of the month. 715 N. Westgate Dr. Sunday Worship - Pharr South Park, Pharr, 9:30am, 1402 S. Cage Blvd. Church Service - Mission Bell Resort, Mission, 9:30am. Church Service - Lakewood RV Resort, Harlingen, 9:30am. Worship Services - Palm Shadows RV/MH Park, Donna, 10am, Pastor Frank McKeehan. Fellowship following. Worship Service - Eastgate RV & MH Park, Harlingen, 10am, Non-denominational church services in the South Hall with Pastor Steve. 956423-3137. 2801 Harrison.
7 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 18, 2026 27146 McLelland Dr., Harlingen, TX 78552 (956) 423-1446, www.gowithjo.com for complete itineraries Go...With Jo! Tours & Travel We Take Care of You! Padre Island & Brownsville (1 Day) April 2, 2026 �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������$95 San Benito – Rio Hondo (1 Day) April 6, 2026 �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������$105 Harlingen – La Feria (1 Day) April 3, 2026 �����������������������������������������������������������������������������������$105 (Prices are per person / Lunch Included) ONE DAY TOURS Worship Service - Split Rail RV Park, Mission, 10am, Pastor Fred Dorisse. Everyone is welcome to come and join us for service. Non-denominational church. 513 N. Los Ebanos Rd. Church Service - Paradise Resort Estates, Pharr, 10-10:30am, Everyone is welcome! Join us each week for worship, lesson, prayer, and cookies. Our non-denominational group meets for faith and fellowship. Church Service - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 10:30am, Auditorium. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Jam - Fiesta Village, Mission, 1-3pm, 205 S. Stewart Rd. Gospel Jam Session - River Ranch Resort, Rio Hondo, 2-4pm, Refreshments. Gospel Jam - Valley View Estates, Mission, 3-5pm, 2100 Vernon. Church Service - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 7pm, Auditorium. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Monday, March 23 Line Dancing with Keith - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10amNoon, Improver dancer. Mexican Train Dominos - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 10-11am, Bring your own drinks and snacks. Introduction to Square Dancing - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, Noon2pm, 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Jam Session - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 1-3pm, 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Jam Session - Yellow Rose MH & RV Park, La Feria, 1-3pm, Musicians by invitation only. Jam Session - River Ranch Resort, Rio Hondo, 2-4pm, 50/50 drawing, refreshments. Texas Hold ‘Em - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 3-5pm, BYOB. $5.25 buy in. Karaoke - Quiet Village II, Donna, 3-6pm, Featuring Shannon Garrison. Parking on street in front of Rec Hall and on Peacefull Lane directly behind Rec Hall. BYOB. Snacks available to purchase; pizza, chili dogs, nachos, popcorn, ice cream, pop & water. Happy Hour - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 4-5:30pm, Denim & Lace, donation. 956-787-6461. 101 E. Sioux Rd. Soup Supper - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 4pm. Monday Night Hamburgers - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 4:305:30pm. Monday Burger Night - Paradise Park, McAllen, 5-6pm, At the clubhouse. Angus burger, cheese, trimmings, seasoned fries, and dessert, $8pp. BYOD or sodas/water available for sale. 100 E. Hackberry Ave. Monday Night Jam Sessions - Mission West RV Park, Palmview, 5:30-7:30pm. Tuesday, March 24 Men’s Prayer and Bible Study - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 8am, Activity Building. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Chair Exercise - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 9-10am, Exercise classes led by Mary! Bring a towel, water bottle and a positive attitude. Meet people and join in on the low key, stress-less, no judgment exercise classes. Women’s Prayer and Bible Study - Bibleville Conference Grounds, Alamo, 9:30am, Activity Building. 1346 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Trail Dance Lessons - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 11am, Beginner 11 a.m., intermediate 12 p.m. Questions: 815-383-6783. 7211 Ford St. Lunch & Jam - Roadrunner RV Resort, Alamo, 11am, Lunch 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. Jam 1 p.m.-3 p.m. 1222 N. Cesar Chavez Rd. Rock N Roll Jam - Paradise Park, McAllen, 11:30am, Lunch available from 11:30 a.m. 80’s to 2009, modern country, and 60’s to 80’s rock n roll. Jam 12:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. Stage band: The Esquires. 100 E. Hackberry. Beginner Square Dancing - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, Noon-2pm, $5pp. 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Music Jam - Leisure World Community, Weslaco, Noon, Lunch available for purchase. Jam - Oleander Acres, Mission, 12:30-2:30pm. Jam Session - Lakewood RV Resort, Harlingen, 1pm. Entertainment - Fiesta Village, Mission, 1-4pm, His & Her Country & Variety Band, $10pp. 205 S. Stewart Rd. Happy Hour - Bit-O-Heaven RV Park, Donna, 3-5pm, Curt James, pass the hat. 50/50 & door prizes. Free ice. Soda & popcorn for sale. BYOB & snacks. R/C Racing Cars & Dinner - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 3-10pm, 1341 W US Bus. Hwy. 83. Happy Hour - Bentsen Grove Resort, Palmview, 4-6pm, Diego & Edith, pass the hat. BGR Town Square, bring a chair. Bingo Night - We RV Champions of Rio Hondo, 6-7:30pm, $1 cards. Penny Pokeno - AmeriCana RV Park, Palmview, 6-8pm, BYOB. Lemonade, tea and refreshment snacks provided. Bring a small container of pennies and come join in the fun with the gang. Great evening of fun, laughs and chance! End of Season Dance - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-10pm, Ron Moshier, $10pp. Dance - Paradise Park RV Resort, Harlingen, 7-9pm, South Texas Ramblers, $10pp. Wednesday, March 25 All You Can Eat Breakfast - Enchanted Valley Ranch, Mission, 7:30-9am, $8pp. 7300 Monroe. Craft Show - Paradise Park RV Resort, Harlingen, 9am-Noon. Line Dancing with Keith - Casa del Valle Resort Park, Alamo, 10amNoon, Improver dancer. Country Jam - Heritage Square, Mission, 1pm, Food available 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Square Dance - Alamo Palms MH & RV Park, 6:30-9pm, MS & Plus with Rounds. $6pp. 1341 W. US Bus. Hwy. 83. Dance - Tip O’ Texas RV Resort, Pharr, 7-10pm, Steven May & the Southern Knights, $8pp. 956-7876461. 101 E. Sioux Rd. Mystery Theater - Victoria Palms Resort, Donna, 7-9pm, $10pp.
MARCH 18, 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com 8 WINTER TEXAN TIMES EVENTS CALENDAR Now through March 28 – The Upper Valley Art League is proud to announce the return of its Photography Exhibit ‘Revealed,’ a revitalized showcase dedicated to the art and craft of photography. Gallery hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. UVAL is located at 921 East 12th Street in Mission. March 18 – Bentsen-RGV State Park will have a What’s in the Water program at 2 p.m. Call (956) 5849156. Bentsen-RGV State Park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Dr., in Mission. March 18 – Vellichor Book and More in Mission will host their Winesday and Chess Night from 4 to 6 p.m. They are located at 101 E. Tom Landry. March 19 – Bentsen-RGV State Park will have their Birding Tram Tour at 9 a.m. Reservations are required. Call (956) 584-9156. Bentsen-RGV State Park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Dr., in Mission. March 19 – Bentsen-RGV State Park will have a Home Tweet Home program at 2 p.m. Reservations are required. Call (956) 584-9156. Bentsen-RGV State Park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Dr., in Mission. March 20 – IMAS will hold an opening reception for their Aviary exhibit that features quilted birds. The evening will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Exhibit will remain open through June 21. Admission is $10. IMAS is located at 1900 W. Nolana Avenue in McAllen. March 20 – Vellichor Book and More in Mission will host a Game Night from 6 to 9 p.m. They are located at 101 E. Tom Landry. March 20 – Bentsen-RGV State Park will have a Night Ride at 7:30 p.m. Reservations are required. Call (956) 584-9156. Bentsen-RGV State Park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Dr., in Mission. March 21 – 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. March 21 – 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. March 21 – The McAllen Farmers Market will be held at the McAllen Public Library from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is held every Saturday. The library is located at 4001 N. 23rd St. For more information visit mcallenfarmersmarket.com. March 21 – Bentsen-RGV State Park will have their Birding Basic Series program at 10 a.m. Reservations are required. Call (956) 5849156. Bentsen-RGV State Park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Dr., in Mission. March 21 – Vellichor Book and More in Mission will host a DnD Game Day at 2 p.m. They are located at 101 E. Tom Landry. March 22 – 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/. March 22 – Bentsen-RGV State Park will have a Botany and Brushes activity at 10 a.m. Reservations are required. Call (956) 584-9156. Bentsen-RGV State Park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Dr., in Mission. March 22 – Enjoy Storytime with a Shelter Dog at Vellichor Book and More in Mission from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. They are located at 101 E. Tom Landry. March 24 – Valley Nature Center will host a Native Plant Project meeting at 7 p.m. The event is free to the public. The Valley Nature Center is located at 301 S. Border Ave., in Weslaco. March 25 – Vellichor Book and More in Mission will host their Winesday and Chess Night from 4 to 6 p.m. They are located at 101 E. Tom Landry. March 26 – Bentsen-RGV State Park will have their Birding Tram Tour at 9 a.m. Reservations are required. Call (956) 584-9156. Bentsen-RGV State Park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Dr., in Mission. March 26 – Vellichor Book and More in Mission will host Silent Book Club from 4 to 6 p.m. They are located at 101 E. Tom Landry. Reunions are a great time to catch up with friends, old and new. If you would like to share your information, please send it in. We would love to see your photos as well and share with others what a great time you are having. You can send your reunions and photos to news@wintertexantimes. com. 3M Retirees & Friends 3M Retirees & Friends will meet on March 18, at Victoria Palms Restaurant in Donna at 10:30 a.m. For information, call Louise Hartsuiker, (612) 916-9236. Submarine Veterans The Submarine Veterans will meet for lunch at 11 a.m. on the third Thursday from now (Thursday, March 19) through April at the Junction Café, 11 S. Cage Blvd., in Pharr. For more information, contact Larry at (715) 305-0401. Magic Valley Retirement PEO Group The Magic Valley Retirement P.E.O. Group will meet on Tuesday, March 24, at 11:30 a.m. Lunch and water will be provided (bring a soft drink if you prefer). Meeting will be held at Julie’s home at 417 Scorpio, Aladdin Villas East, Mission. Please RSVP to Connie at (402) 641-0125 or Julie at (956) 566-7872. Weekly Meetings Men & Women of A Chord Practices The Men & Women of A Chord, a barbershop chorus group, is looking for new voices. Go harmonize with them during their weekly practices at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at St. Mark Methodist Church, 2nd St. and Pecan, in McAllen. The group performs several shows at Winter Texans parks and would love to have you join them. For updates and more information, visit www. barbershoptx.com. Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers The Rio Grande Valley Woodcarvers will have their weekly Thursday get togethers at the Las Palmas Community Center, 1921 N. 25th St., in McAllen from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. They will meet every Thursday, excluding holidays, until the last Thursday in March 2026. Any questions, call Pam Horstman at (816) 590-6521. RGV Concert Band Rehearsals After the holidays, the RGV Concert Band will focus on the January through March concerts held in various 55+ parks. The group usually performs six concerts per year during the season. If you’re interested in joining the RGV Concert Band, please come to a concert and /or contact director Gene Goede at (956) 682-9225. Practices are held at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1107 Fern in McAllen.
9 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 18, 2026 e m t t Winter Texans receive a warm welcome in RGV Time and again, Winter Texans list friendliness as big a reason to live here. Not only does that include their neighbors in the park or other parks, but also the people in the community who are happy to have Winter Texans because they appreciate the economic and other benefits they bring to the Valley. Some of the first signs you see when entering the Rio Grande Valley are “Welcome to the RGV.” When Winter Texan season comes around though, you’ll also see signs all over the place that say, “Welcome Back Winter Texans.” Alano Johnston, who, with his wife, remembers their first visit to the RGV over 30 years ago. After the couple’s unimpressive experiences in Arizona and Florida the previous two seasons, the warm welcome in South Texas was just what they needed. “We went to Florida first and the people on the East Coast, they were too much, and the ones on the West Coast said, ‘When are you going to go back to Minnesota’.” Johnston said. As new Winter Texans get situated in their park, they are already making new friends. Those open arms and friendly, caring faces are a big reason that Winter Texans stay and share word of how much they enjoy their new – or returning – winter home. We hear it all the time at events. At one recent event a Winter Texan told us this was their first time visiting the Valley and they will be back next year. She shared that neighbors barely let them unload before they were greeting them and telling them of all the places they needed to visit while in the Valley. Larry Boggs, a Winter Texan who hails from Branson, MO said, “They welcome you with open arms from the moment you It’s the weather that brings 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, especially if the other option includes snow, ice and all things frozen. The average high between December and February runs from 70-74 degrees (but can reach into the 80s) and lows are generally between 49 and 54 – with the token warning once or twice 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, Get more for your dollar in the Valley As our winter visitors come 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. As things become a little more expensive, and budgets become tighter, the Valley still offers ways to save money. Progreso is as much a Winter Texan hotspot as any place on the U.S. side of the Rio Grande. Arts, crafts, See PEOPLE pg. 16 See COST pg. 16 See WEATHER pg. 16 Visit the Rio Grande Valley Winter Texans enjoy the Progresso Tourist Day each year in March that the city puts on as a Thank You to its Winter visitors. (Photo by Herb Moering) Winter Texans shopping at Don Wes Flea Market. (Photo by Kathy Olivarez)
MARCH 18, 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com 10 WINTER TEXAN TIMES Palm Resaca Park 100 Tangerine Blvd, Brownsville www.palmresacapark.org | palmresaca Ph (956) 546-7423 Thank you for making Palm Resaca Park Your Winter Home! We look forward to seeing you and your friends again next year. delivered to your inbox Never Miss an issue with the Winter Texan times Thanks for coming to Texas! Winter Texan TIMES Serving Winter Texans From Mission To South Padre Island Since 1987 Vol. 38, No. 24 © 2025 www.wintertexantimes.com Wednesday, March 26, 2025 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 17 Coupon Index p 20 Classifieds p 21 Business Guide p 21 Rina’s Ramblings See RAMBLINGS pg. 17 This season is ending, and I hate to see it go. We always enjoy your time with us, and our time with you, and we sure are going to miss it while you are gone. We know you are coming to the Valley for the community, the weather, lower prices, and more. We also know you are coming because of the culture and the warm welcomes you receive. But it is also your warmness that makes us love seeing you each year. Speaking of that warmness, you do so much for the communities you live in – whether it is for See THANK YOU pg. 18 Thank you for coming, safe travels, see you next season 2025 Winter Texan Fiesta. Photo by William Brunson By Herb Moering Hundreds of Winter Texans turned out Friday under picture perfect weather for the 49th annual Tourist Day in Nuevo Progreso. The event to say “thanks” to all those who come to shop, eat, purchase medicines and have dental work done in Progreso began with a brief welcome in the Bridge Authority Building from Samuel Robert Sparks Jr., the private bridge co-owner, to various area government officials and spouses and special friends. See PROGRESO pg. 20 Tourists enjoy refreshments and entertainment in Progreso Members of both delegations and honored guests took a moment out to exchange greetings and have some photos taken to commemorate the 49th Annual Tourist Day 2025. Photo by Herb Moering This season has, once again, been a blast. We have a lot of fun when we are out and about with you, sharing your news, and hearing your stories. I had the opportunity to hear many stories this year. What you see in the paper is sometimes just a bit of what is shared. I keep learning how eager you are to help others, to be there for your friends, and to teach others how to do the same. It’s amazing to see the strength you have and watch you use your experiences to help the community you live in through service, teaching, and more. We always enjoy sharing the stories of community service you do for your park, and for organizations, schools, and churches in your community. We get to see how thankful and how full of gratitude everyone is for your service – whether it be through volunteer work, making something, donating food, or any of the other multitude of ways you find to fulfill the need. We, and so many IN PRINT, ONLINE ON ANY DEVICE YOU WILL WANT TO TAKE IT WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO BRING US ALONG, & THERE’S ALWAYS MORE TO SEE, MORE TO DO Call or Email ads@wintertexantimes.com 956.580.7800 1217 N CONWAY, MISSION Follow us on Facebook.com/ wintertexantimes www.WinterTexanTimes.com FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES subscribe to receive the weekly edition in your inbox at www.WinterTexanTimes.com/Newsletter Winter Texas visit the Valley to stay active One of the things that we hear around here is that Winter Texans come to the Valley during the winter months so they can still live an active lifestyle. If they were still up north, they would be stuck inside during snowstorms and wouldn’t have much to do but a few indoor activities when it is too cold outside. The only activity they would really get is shoveling snow, and that is something they don’t want to be doing. So, they come to south Texas so they can have a wide variety of activities to choose from. Because of the warmer climate, and predominantly dry season, Winter Texans have a full range of outdoor activities they can participate in while in south Texas from October through March. One of the most popular activities is golf. With many options to choose from throughout the Valley, Winter Texans develop favorites. Some also make it a goal to try out each golf course. Among sports activities, pickleball has become quite popular in recent years. Several parks have added courts to their facilities and parks and recreation departments throughout the Valley have found a benefit in adding courts to their city amenities. Driving along the highway in Mission you can now find at least three large pickleball courts and there is even a pickleball club that holds tournaments throughout the year. Other sports and hobbies include shuffleboard, card games, billiards, softball, RC cars and planes, hiking, biking, birdwatching, and so much more. And most of these, although some are indoors, are outdoors and can be done nearly all year long. See ACTIVE pg. 14 Photo by Henry Miller Photo by Henry Miller
11 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 18, 2026 WELCOME TO NATURE SHOPPING VISIT US! PALMHURST THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING US! www.cityofpalmhursttx.com
MARCH 18, 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com 12 WINTER TEXAN TIMES
13 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 18, 2026
MARCH 18, 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com 14 WINTER TEXAN TIMES 3907 N. Taylor Road Mission, TX 78573 (956) 682-7495 j5rvparktexas.com Close to: • Golfing • Shopping • Nature Parks • One hour from South Padre Island • Theaters, Entertainment, & More Resort Facilities: • Free WiFi • Shuffleboard Courts • On-Site Managers • Air-Conditioned Clubhouse • Fully Equipped Kitchen • Community Functions • Billiards • Library and Game Rooms • Woodcarving Area • On-Site Laundry Facilities RV Site Amenities: • Large ‘Big Rig’ Sites • Full Hook-ups • 30/50-amp Electric Service • Cable TV Hook-ups Available • Shaded & Open Sites • Plenty of Room for Slide-Outs • Clean, Level Sites Enjoy a Warm Rio Grande Valley RVing Winter Among Friends Enjoy a warm, wonderful South Texas winter at J-Five RV Park in Mission, TX. You’ll feel right at home. Come meet your new friends at our welcoming park. There’s a great sense of community here, with many of our residents returning each winter year after year. Located in the beautiful Rio Grande Valley, we enjoy the fantastic weather that draws Winter Texans to RV parks in the Valley from all over. Enjoy the simple pleasures of a quiet country setting amid nearby citrus groves and rodeo horses next door. We’re conveniently close to restaurants, shopping and great area attractions. If you’re looking for that special, quiet little corner of paradise to spend a warm winter, look no further than J-Five RV Park. Contact us today to learn more and to reserve your site! Brownsville has the Gladys Porter Zoo. One of the top zoos in the nation. They are constantly revamping and introducing new sections of the zoo. They hold educational programs throughout the year where you can get up close to the animals. There are also many parks that highlight native plants of the region. The South Texas Ecotourism Center in Laguna Vista is a great example of this. You can walk its trails and learn about the many different habitats that can be found in the Valley. Lots to do, Lots of fun We lovingly call our entertainers that visit the Valley each season Wintertainers™. These individuals come from places like Nashville, Las Vegas, and Branson to entertain the Winter Texans for a few months out of the year. They join in on the There are cycling groups, quilting groups, pool aerobics, chair volleyball, it’s limitless as to what types of sports, hobbies, or social clubs you can find in your park, or throughout the RGV. There is always something to keep you busy. And if it isn’t a sport, hobby, or club you’re into – there is entertainment, educational activities, and philanthropy activities to get involved in as well. Lots to see, Lots to learn The RGV has an array of museums to visit. Each major city in the Valley has at least one museum dedicated to showcasing the city’s history. Harlingen, Brownsville, Weslaco, McAllen, and Mission are just a few that come to mind. But you also have the Museum of South Texas History in Edinburg that features the history of the entire Valley. They have displays throughout the year about the agricultural landscape, events that celebrate the local culture, and more that highlights Valley history. ACTIVE From pg. 10 Joanne Cunnien pets a baby alligator while Marlys Hughes and Sue Anderson look on. (Courtesy photo) Vinyl Spin is a Winter Texan favorite winning Valley Star Awards Rock N Roll Band of the Year award for 2026. (Photo by Carina A. Brunson)
15 WINTER TEXAN TIMES www.wintertexantimes.com MARCH 18, 2026 4770 N Mayberry Road Mission, TX 78573 (956) 580-4545 www.canyonlakervresort.com Experience the warm hospitality of Canyon Lake RV Resort Here at Canyon Lake RV Resort, you’ll find the best combination of peace and tranquility, exciting daily activities, beautiful sub-tropical environment and the convenience of every imaginable service. Come see why so many of our longtime guests have chosen to call Canyon Lake RV Resort their RV camping home in the beautiful South Texas Rio Grande Valley. One of Canyon Lake RV Resort’s greatest features is our own private 10-acre lake, with a foot bridge leading to our own private island! Come enjoy our sparkling Texas-shaped heated swimming pool, invigorating whirlpool spa, shuffleboard courts and 10,000 square foot recreation hall with billiards room & library. Canyon Lake boasts a season full of activities like yoga, line dancing, bonfires, billiards, bingo nights, jams, and so much more to keep you having fun all season long. Facilities are open 24 hours. Amazing meals offered. Golf cart rentals are available. Bulletin board is regularly updated with events at the park and services offered by residents. Whether you’re looking to stay active or simply relax and unwind, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore, engage, or take a moment to enjoy yourself – the choice is yours! Features • Pool •Woodworking & Welding Shop •Shuffleboard courts •Pool tables •Exercise Room • Library •Propane Delivery •On-Site Laundry •Daily Mail Service • Showers/Restrooms •Paved Streets •All-Night Lighting •Pets Welcome/Dog Park •Hiking Trail • Horseshoes •Golfing Pad •Canoes/Paddle boats •Tiny Homes/Cabins •New 2025 Park Models •Fully Furnished Air B&B’s fun with you and share their talents while here. Many of these talented individuals are local as well. Some popular Wintertainers™ include Bruce Boudreau and CanAm, Rick McEwen, Steven May, Ron Moshier, Tim Hadler, and Mark Merchant. A new popular group is the local band Vinyl Spin. These groups, individuals, and duos, make the effort to put on a good show and learn to play the music you want to hear and dance to. Some are known for specialties – like Rick as Kenny Rogers – and others can do it all. You can find a mix of variety bands, country, rock, and even bluegrass. No matter what you are into, you can find a Wintertainer™ that can sing it for you. You can also find ones like Julia Lane Cooper that not only sings, but also does murder mystery shows. These individuals perform at parks throughout the Valley. The cost is typically $7 to $10 while the same show in Florida or Arizona will cost $15 or more and in Branson might cost you $30 to $50. And if that’s not enough, a lot of parks will have their own dance classes. You often have the opportunity to learn line dancing, square dancing, waltzes, and others. One park holds a big Line Dance Bash featuring all the new line dances learned during the season. So, whether you are into country or rock, you can be sure to find it in the Valley. Many Winter Texans have their favorites, and some groups even have roadies. Lots of service, Lots of love If you like doing things for others, there is sure to be something you can participate in while visiting the Valley. Many parks have activities throughout the year where they collect donations for Christmas, host food drives for Thanksgiving, or collect socks for a local school. We see photos and read stories about the many charitable things our Winter Texans do each year in the communities they reside in. Many Winter Texans volunteer at city chamber offices, food pantries, animal shelters, and hospitals. There are quilting groups that make blankets for local students and hospitals. Some Winter Texans make hats and bears for babies. It’s always a blessing to see what you are doing for the communities you call home for such a short time each year. The Valley appreciates all that you do for them and know your value. We love having you here and look forward to your arrival each year. Bentsen Palm RV Park made dog houses for Cinderella Pet Rescue. (Photo by Daniel Brunson)
MARCH 18, 2026 www.wintertexantimes.com 16 WINTER TEXAN TIMES WEATHER From pg. 9 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. 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. The nation’s warmest “Polar Bear Dip” also takes place on South Padre Island every January 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 Valley is a place where the swimming pools are open nearly all year long, outdoor activities are usually only disturbed by the few rainy days, and it’s always a great day to go for a stroll in a park or hiking trail. Shuffleboard tournaments are usually held in December and January. The senior softball team practices in January and February. Parades and festivals are held throughout the season. There is rarely a bad day to be outside – and if there is, it doesn’t last very long. 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. medicine as well as deliciously prepared adult beverages 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, Brownsville, McAllen and Mission in their top 100 in the nation, and most of the 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. For many years, several surveys, when looking at cost-of-living differences at the state and metro levels throughout the United States, the McAllen-Edinburg-Mission metro area consistently ranks in the top five most affordable places to live in their midsize U.S. metro category. “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. While the cost of living is very economical for the area, the Winter Texan parks offer a whole other type of economy. 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 to $10. For a twohour show, sometimes with 250 or more in attendance, it’s a win-win for everyone. Even the lunch specials offer amazing prices – all you can eat pancake breakfasts for as little as $5, or a burger, fries and a drink for $6 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 Don-Wes 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. While being rebuilt after a very destructive fire a few years ago, the flea market offers a variety of products by an array of vendors. A big, covered area contains a restaurant and a covered pavilion outside offers entertainment. 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 comes to the economic reasons, the lots and homes themselves are sold at amazingly low prices. When a Winter Texan decides not to 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.” COST From pg. 9 get here. We have made so many friends here. We have more friends here than we do back home.” Johnston said the friendliness isn’t limited to the folks in the parks, but it is just a part of the local culture in the community as well. He said it feels very much like that Midwestern hospitality that he’s used to. “We love it because it’s not a (typical) tourist area; it’s a place that we feel very comfortable, and people have the Midwest values. God bless the Valley! We just love it here!” There are “Welcome Home” fiestas as winter guests begin to arrive in the Fall. Most RGV communities host “Winter Texan Appreciation” events at the end of the winter season as well. Business owners and government officials will talk about relationships that were built, commonly calling the winter 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 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. And it’s not just about the economic impact for the Valley – Winter Texans truly become a part of the tapestry of the Valley. We are constantly reminded of what Texas stands for and means – Tejas, Friend – and that is how the community feels about our Winter Texan friends. PEOPLE From pg. 9
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