It’s hard to believe we just returned from our ninth Cruise with Kristi. Life has a funny way of changing direction when you least expect it. I still remember being approached years ago by another travel agent about hosting a Cruise with Kristi and thinking it was the most ridiculous idea I had ever heard. In my mind, there was no way anyone would sign up. Well…I was wrong. That very first year, more than 80 Winter Texans joined us for our inaugural sailing, and the rest, as they say, is history. What started as one simple cruise grew into something much bigger. It led to opening our own travel agency, which then expanded into day trips, overnight tours, and now even international land adventures. Travel has become one more way we connect, explore, and create memories together. In fact, one of my favorite moments from this year’s cruise was hearing someone say, “If I don’t book the trip, my kids will!”
Looking ahead, we have some exciting journeys on the horizon, from Ireland and Portugal to river cruises and scenic rail experiences. Whether you prefer to travel with our group or plan something on your own, we’re always happy to help you book your next adventure.
Cruise with Kristi: Just Say Yes!
Story by Eryn Reddell Wingert
Natina Pelletier was visiting Florida a year ago when she got a call from friends at Orange Grove RV Park in Edinburg. “One of our group can’t go on this cruise. Can you get here in three days?” She initially thought there was no way, but after a little more persuasion, she hopped in her van and took off for South Texas.
Pelletier arrived just in time to hop on a bus and join Cruise with Kristi 2025, her very first cruise ever. “It was simply amazing. Everywhere you looked, it was the wow factor!”
Pelletier is from Carman, Manitoba, Canada. She isn’t a Winter Texan--although she would like to be one day--but she is an avid traveler. “I travel whenever I can. I work really hard and then go.”
Making friends during her travels is the norm, and that first cruise was no exception. Pelletier bonded with mother-daughter duo Diana and Michelle, who invited her to join them during Cruise with Kristi 2026.
Pelletier once again hesitated for a moment until she was reminded of her own motto: Just say yes!
The annual Cruise with Kristi begins with a motor coach ride from the Rio Grande Valley, courtesy of travel partner RGV Tours. This year’s trip, which took place in February, required four buses. “Their drivers are the absolute best!” says Welcome
Photos by Natina Pelletier & Welcome Home RGV Staff CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
Home RGV Travel Director Kristy Meyer. “We really couldn’t do this without their unwavering support!”
Accompanied by Welcome Home RGV guides, 204 passengers boarded Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas at the Port of Galveston for a seven-night cruise to Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, and Roatan, Honduras.
Meyers reports the group was made up of about 60% repeat Tours & Travel by Welcome Home cruisers. “We must be doing something right!” The mix included locals from all over the Rio Grande Valley, in addition to Winter and Converted Texans, grandmothers and granddaughters, fathers and sons, and mothers and daughters, including Meyer’s own mom.
Some travelers flew or drove from elsewhere to join the cruise, including a couple from Spring, Texas, according to Meyer. “Because they met some of our cruisers last year, saw we were having so much fun, and wanted to join us this year…so they did!”
Pelletier joined the group by way of Canada, driving her modified sleeper van to South Texas and traveling on Bus No. 1. She raved about the bus ride, from her hosts--Fran Adams, Meyer and her husband, Bobby--to the stops at What-a-burger and Buc-ee’s to watching episodes of the 1970s television show, The Love Boat. “The ride went by really fast!”
Pelletier has high praise for the cruise itself, from watching Michelle and her brother surf to a taxi tour
around Roatan, buying--and winning--art to tasting lobster tails, walking along the beach to enjoying the Costa Mayan port, and even the comfortable bed. “It was amazing; they run it like a welloiled machine!”
Tours & Travel by Welcome Home, in addition to annual trips like Cruise with Kristi and Land & Sea Christmas, books all kinds of adventures for anyone looking to get away. To find your next adventure, visit welcomehomergv. com or call 956-687-5115. •
219 W Nolana McAllen, TX 78504
956.687.5115 www.welcomehomergv.com
Calendar Submissions!
Publisher
Kristi Collier kristi@welcomehomergv.com
Content Creator/Photographer
Eryn Reddell Wingert eryn@welcomehomergv.com
Accounting
Angela Blanchard angela@welcomehomergv.com
Administration
Amie Gray agray@welcomehomergv.com
Colette Brookins calendar@welcomehomergv.com
Event Manager
Anne Marie Martin events@welcomehomergv.com
Editor
Chris Ardis news@welcomehomergv.com
Graphic Design
AIM Media Texas, LLC
Activity Coordinator
Fran Adams fran@welcomehomergv.com
Business Development
Chris Leadbetter chris@welcomehomergv.com
Travel Division
Kristy Meyer travel@welcomehomergv.com
Sarah Denzer sarah@welcomehomergv.com
Stella Riester stella@welcomehomergv.com
For more information on submitting your events and activities, please e-mail: calendar@welcomehomergv.com The deadline for submision is Fridays at 5:00 p.m.
Weekly E-Blasts
Kristi’s e-Blasts are sent weekly October-March to our subscribers. Find out what’s happening across the Valley. These e-Blasts include helpful links and fliers for Featured Events. Sign up at: info@welcomehomergv.com
Follow Us on Social Media!
www.facebook.com @whrgv @wintertexan
www.youtube.com
Find on Youtube Channel “Welcome Home Rio Grande Valley”
www.instagram.com @welcomehomergv @wintertexans
Photos by Natina Pelletier & Welcome Home RGV Staff
Quilted Birds Featured in Studio Art Quilt Associates Exhibit at the IMAS
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Bird lovers and quilters alike should make plans to explore the wonders of a new exhibit opening at the International Museum of Art & Science (IMAS) this spring. Aviary will open March 21 and remain on exhibit through June 21 at the Museum, located at 1900 West Nolana Ave. in McAllen. This exhibition was created by Studio Art Quilt Associates, Inc.
“This exhibition highlights the incredible diversity of birds on our planet,” said Marcelo Ramirez Garcia-Rojas, IMAS curator. “Birders and quilters unite to admire the beauty of these creatures!”
Birds are found all around the world. They remind us of ourselves yet are also able to fly up in the heavens. Artists around the globe respond to the birds they admire in myriad ways using a wide variety of materials and techniques.
Learn how 60 master artists were inspired by birds to create glorious art. In the hands of these artists, the humblest materials--thread, paper, and fabric--go through an alchemical transformation into incredible art. Immerse yourself in art that celebrates birds, which bring life into our landscapes and joy into our lives.
Aviary is based upon “Stitched Journeys with Birds: Inspiration to Let Your Creativity Take Flight” (Schiffer, late 2023) by SAQA’s Executive Director Martha Sielman.
An opening reception will also be held at the IMAS Friday, March 20, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. with light refreshments. The reception will offer a first look at the exhibit. Admission is free for IMAS members and $10 for the general public.
The museum is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information on admission, events, and programs, visit theimasonline.org or call 956-681-2800. •
Perspectives Keep Your Glasses Clean…Because It Matters
For many of us who have aged gracefully, we may have gotten to the time in our lives when glasses have become an essential addition to our everyday attire. And for those of us who wear glasses, the struggle to keep lenses clean is a familiar, often daily, (if not hourly) routine. A single smudge, a fingerprint, or a sprinkle of dust can disrupt clarity, making the world appear hazy or distorted. While this may seem like a small inconvenience, it can be a real hurdle in being able to accomplish even the simplest tasks.
Consider the impact of dirty glasses. When they are clouded, colors fade, shapes blur, and details disappear. We might squint or strain, but without cleaning them, frustration and even mistakes become inevitable.
In the same way, our spiritual “lenses” can become clouded by distractions, negative thoughts, worldly influences, and unresolved hurts, so our ability to see life as God intends is compromised. We start viewing situations through the fog of doubt, fear, or selfishness rather than the clear, hopeful vision that comes from a godly perspective.
Cleaning glasses is not a one-time event; it requires consistent attention. Every day, new smudges appear, and the process repeats. The same is true of maintaining a godly perspective, it is a continuous journey. Life presents countless circumstances that can cloud our spiritual vision: disappointments, temptations, busyness, or even simple complacency. Without regular reflection, prayer, and realignment with God’s word, our outlook quickly shifts from clarity to confusion.
The tools we use also matter, with our glasses and our souls. Wiping lenses with a dirty shirt or tissue can make things worse, spreading grime instead of removing it. We need the right cloth and cleaner to restore clarity. Spiritually, the same holds true. We cannot expect to maintain a godly perspective by relying on worldly advice or letting our emotions dictate how we respond to
by Rich Harmsen
life’s situations. Instead, we need reliable tools: scripture, prayer, meaningful community, worship, and honest self-examination. There are even times when prayer may need to be coupled with fasting (not the diet). These “cleaning agents” help remove the film of negativity and restore focus on what is true. “Finally brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things.” Philippians 4:8
Furthermore, just as we might not notice gradually accumulating smudges until the view is severely impaired, spiritual drift can be subtle. It is easy to go about daily life unaware that our vision has grown dim…until a crisis hits or we realize we have lost our way, sense of peace, and direction. That is why intentional, frequent “cleaning” of our spiritual perspective is necessary.
Setting aside time for quiet reflection or gratitude can quickly reveal where our vision has dulled and prompt us to restore clarity. Ultimately, clear glasses and a godly perspective serve the same purpose: alignment with reality. Clean lenses help us see the physical world as it truly is; a godly perspective helps us see life through God’s eyes--full of possibility, hope, and meaning. Both require humility to admit when our vision is off and commitment to restore clarity. In doing so, we are better equipped to respond to challenges, appreciate beauty, and live with purpose. Matthew 13:16 says, “But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear.”
So the next time you pause to clean your glasses, let it serve as a gentle reminder. As you wipe away the smudges, consider what might be clouding your spiritual vision. With consistent care, both your lenses and your outlook can remain bright, clear, and focused on what truly matters. •
contact Rich by email at richharmsen@aol.com or by phone at 903434-9783 or Tammy at tammyharmsen63@ gmail.com or 903-434-9784.
Rich and Tammy Harmsen serve with Christian Resort Ministries (crmintl.org) as chaplains at Encore Tropic Winds in the RGV. You may
Mandy Pattullo, Pheasant, 2018. Antique quilt, variety of fabrics; collaged. 11 × 16 in (28 × 41 cm).
Laura Fogg, Precarious Balance, 2019. Commercial and hand-dyed cottons, satin, cheesecloth, and novelty trims; raw-edge appliquéd and freehand machine quilted. 43 × 51 in (109 × 130 cm).
Lambs Loom Yarnspiration 2026
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
We mentioned our annual Make-Along to y’all earlier in the season, and it is off to a great start for 2026! Every year, we have a fun time with the inspiration of colors for our Donation Chest. This year’s inspiration is the ladybug. With over 6,000 types to choose from, this will be a fun year of yarnspiration. And who knew there were so many ladybugs all over the world?
So, meet our ladybug for March--the polished ladybug. This is one of the few ladybugs in North America without any spots at all! Their orange--and sometimes red-coloring works as great camouflage while they flit around the bushes looking for lunch. These ladybugs usually begin to show up in early spring, so keep your eyes out. They eat aphids exclusively…so that is a huge help with all the new blooms pushing out this time of year. We already have a wonderful stack of hats and scarves that have come into the Donation Chest for January and February’s ladybugs. It looks like it is going to be a very colorful year! It’s been suggested (and we love the idea) that we incorporate the ladybug’s host plant color into our creations.
Last year, The Lamb’s Loom sent out over 5,000 items to mission organizations all over the world. Because we serve such a variety of groups, there is always a home for another cute hat, snuggly scarf, and comfy blanket, regardless of your inspiration.
Thanks to everyone who continues to join the “yarn fun” and contribute your “handmades” to our Donation
Chest throughout the year. You can check out our website “News” page for updates every month and join in all year. It is so fun watching all the wonderful items you all come up with to add to our Donation Chest throughout the year.
We hope you will come and join in all the yarn fun and stitch it forward with us. The Lamb’s Loom is located at 1102 W. Tamarack Ave. in McAllen. Our regular hours are Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additional parking is available in the rear via Upas Avenue. Updates and other information are available on our website at thelambsloom.com. •
~ Prayers ‘n Purls, Friends!
The Ultimate Fishing Experience for All on South Padre Island
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
South Padre Island is one of the best fishing spots in the U.S., complete with year-round bay fishing, offshore fishing, and surfcasting…and it’s all yours. This is the Island where the big fish roam!
With breathtaking coastal landscapes and a robust marine ecosystem, the Island is a favorite destination for anglers of all levels and interests. Whether you prefer the open expanse of the Gulf or enjoy the shimmering waters of Laguna Madre Bay, the Island’s fishing scene has something for everyone.
If you prefer to stick to bay fishing on the Laguna Madre Bay, a rewarding experience is guaranteed. Fish like redfish, speckled trout, and flounder-coupled with the bay’s calm and scenic waters--make bay fishing a fan favorite. The smoother waters are a great opportunity for beginners to cast their luck alongside more experienced anglers.
Need help finding the right spot to drop your anchor? Island charters, like Captain Murphy’s, Isla Tours and more, are ready to take you straight to the best spots on the water so you can just sit back, relax, and hook a big one.
Ready to chase something bigger? Head into the wide-open waters of the beautiful Gulf and experience the thrill of deep-sea fishing. Fish like snapper, kingfish, blue marlin, and more are waiting here for you. Pier fishing on the Island also offers a convenient yet rewarding fishing experience for any age. Pirates Landing is a favorite destination for many, where you can enjoy great fishing opportunities and stunning views.
Before hitting the water, don’t forget to bring your fishing license along. If you don’t have one yet, you can get your license on the Island at places like Blue Marlin Supermarket or go online to the Texas Parks and Wildlife website to purchase your license in minutes.
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned angler, fishing on South Padre Island promises an unforgettable experience. Book a charter, grab your reel, and create lifelong memories on the Island.
For more information and to book your Island accommodations, check out visitsouthpadreisland.com. •
EXPLORE, PROTECT, EDUCATE
Preserving the Unique Ecosystems of South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley
A Department of Cameron County
The spring semester of UTRGV Theatre’s 2025–2026 season begins March 5 – 8 with Lauren Gunderson’s The Book of Will, a poignant and witty historical drama that follows the friends of William Shakespeare as they fight to preserve his plays after his death. This stirring production honors the enduring power of theatre, friendship, and the written word.
Next, April 16 - 19, the season continues with Karen Zacarías’ Mariela in the Desert. Set against the stark, sun-drenched backdrop of Northern Mexico, this lyrical family drama delves into themes of solitude, artistic longing, and personal sacrifice. Mariela’s story is a moving portrait of a woman grappling with her past, her passion, and her place in the world.
Beyond the mainstage lineup, UTRGV Theatre will present two special events
that emphasize education, creativity, and cultural celebration. April 24 and 25, the Theatre for Young Audiences Children’s Workshop brings to life Dr. Brian Warren’s adaptation of The Wizard of Oz. This playful, family-friendly version of the timeless tale is designed to inspire young imaginations and introduce children to the magic of live theatre.
The season concludes with the muchanticipated Latino Theatre Initiative’s Annual Theater Festival, taking place May 1 and 2. Centered on original student work, this festival highlights diverse Latinx voices and storytelling, offering a platform for bold, culturally rich performances that reflect the heart of the community.
All shows will be held at the Albert L. Jeffers Theatre and the Dr. Marian Monta Studio Theatre, located in the Edinburg Liberal Arts South Building (ELABS). Tickets can be purchased at utrgv.edu/theatre. For additional information or group ticket reservations, please contact the UTRGV Theatre Department at 956-665-3581 or by email at theatreboxoffice@utrgv.edu. •
Seven Oaks RV Resort Residents Busy Spreading Love
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Seven Oaks residents participated in Laying of the Wreaths at the Rio Grand Valley State Veterans Cemetery in December 2025. A number of guests went Thursday to help tie the ribbons on and others were there to help lay wreaths at the ceremony Saturday, December 13. We have so many veterans in our park and were truly honored to participate in this annual tradition for those who have sacrificed so much for our country!
Seven Oaks was again able to provide Christmas gifts for some of the needy children at Leal Elementary School in Mission. We worked with their
counselor and adopted 14 families and over 30 children. We have established a beautiful working relationship with the school and have been invited to be honored at their Veteran’s Day program. They also brought 60 children over to the Resort to present their Christmas program to us. Fabric was donated and dog beds were made and donated to the Mission Animal Shelter by the guests at
Seven Oaks RV resort in Mission.
Again this season, Seven Oaks has made and donated a number of handmade bibs, hats, and blankets for the NICU babies at Mission Regional Medical Center. Our residents do such beautiful work, and every piece is infused with love! •
Lawrence Strouts: Truly an Inspiration
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
When you celebrate your 98th birthday, your expectation may not include leading an aquafit class five days per week for three months every winter. Victoria Palms in Donna is proud to have such a talent who has been an inspiration to many for over 25 years!
Lawrence Strouts is a humble retired educator who still actively farms his land near Kansas in the summer. He then brings his many stories and vast experience and blends them with educational tidbits for his loyal subjects in the pool.
The result is a combination of fun, news, and fitness that energizes everyone. Most importantly, the example for all is very clear: You, too, can be mentally sharp and physically active and make a contribution every day when you’re 98! •
MHSLSP00047858,
MHSLSP00048506,
MHSLSP00048506,
Wagon City South, Mission
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
This 2012 unit is spacious, very well maintained and move in ready. The kitchen has beautiful maple colored wood cabinets, a food pantry, all major appliances and a gas stove top. A bonus 7x9 laundry room with a large storage closet, washer and dryer included! The exterior shed is also included! Bonnie Dominguez, MHSLSP00045160, (956) 434-6112
Location, location. location! This RV Casita has one of the most coveted locations in the community. Lots of extras -- pergola, storage sheds, whole house 18 kw Generac generator and gutters making it better than new! All appliances convey. FHU for your RV, but you do not have to have an RV to enjoy this fabulous home. Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487
Have I got the PERFECT place for YOU!! This 1 bedroom/1 bathroom built in 2000 is fully furnished and 100% turn key ready and even includes plate ware, glassware, and silverware! The outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy warm South Texas breezes with neighbors and friends. Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
GOTTA SEE bed/2 bath home Club. This home golf course witha the 4th hole. king bed and new tile flooring. with breakfast and a screen upgrades. Curt MHSLSP00047858,
$75,000
FANTASTIC 2 bed/2 bath 2014 Oak Creek 1300 sqft Home located in McAllen Mobile park. This home is FULL of upgrades including: new roof, new carport, porcelain tile flooring, Safe-Step Walk-in jetted tub/ shower combo, double panes storm windows, 8” insulated walls, new A/C, new washer/dryer, and a 5-stage reverse osmosis water system. A Must See!!! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
McAllen Mobile Park, McAllen Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$179,900
Are you tired of seeing the same old thing? This 2019 2 bedroom, 2 bath mobile home will check everything off your list and more! Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Retama Village, Mission
$339,000
RV Porthome recently remodeled inside & out with large, fenced yard. Large 2 story storage area/ workshop with an additional 12x18 storage building for plenty of storage. Gail Gallagher, TREC797370, (816) 916-5583
Restful Valley Ranch, Mission
$59,900
Come check out this cozy mobile home located in Restful Valley Ranch. This 14x42, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom home sits in the center of the 3 lots.
This updated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom furnished mobile is located in an active 55+ guarded gate community. Walk into this beautiful home and fall in love! Features updated from 2021/2022 include a renovated kitchen (Painted cabinets and walls, new granite countertops, sink, faucet, disposal, dishwasher, and fridge) a fresh coat of paint in the living room, flooring, 2 mini splits, water heater, water softener, and even exterior features like the screened in porch, extended concrete, and northside fencing with gate. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
Hidden Valley Ranch, Mission
$76,000
Searching for a gated 55+ community to settle down in? Then stop and check out this 2 bedroom 1.5 bath mobile home. Step inside and experience the bright and airy front living space and the lovely eat-in kitchen that provides the perfect combination of functionality and comfort. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, MHSLSP00048506, (956) 271-3683
$58,500
Location, Location, RV and looking park? Come located in the Grande Resort, lot! RV pad hook-ups and 50 amp shed with Heather Escobedo, MHSLSP00048506,
Llano Grande Wagon City
$115,000
Located in a active Wagon City South, 2 bedroom, 2 a corner lot and is move-in ready. living and dining entertaining guests Heather Escobedo, MHSLSP00048506,
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Calendar of Events
Wednesday • March 4, 2026
Craft Fair 8:00 AM Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044
Craft Sale 9:00 AM Paradise Resort Estates Pharr (956) 7871521
Plus Square Dance w/Joe & Chris Saltel 9:00 AM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 $7.50
2 Hour Riverside Dreamer River Tour 10:30 AM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-4477 $24
Fundraiser RC Racing Hot Dog Race 12:00 PM Park Place
Estates RV Resort Harlingen (956) 412-0375
Jam Session 12:30 PM Trails End Resort Weslaco (956) 9685051
Jam Session 1:00 PM Posada Del Sol Harlingen (956) 4233534
Open Jam Session 1:00 PM Chimney Park MHC Mission (956) 585-5061
Country Jam 1:00 PM Heritage Square Mission (320) 5575521
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 $13+
Happy Hour w/Jose Villareal 3:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 249-2266
Happy Hour w/The Buck Hollow Band 3:30 PM Paradise South RV Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2044 PTH
Karaoke w/Andrew 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes
Looking for something to do here in the Rio Grande Valley? Our calendar of events has been the go-to source for our retirees to check out the lighter side of the Valley. For more information on submitting your events and activities, please email calendar@welcomehomergv.com. The deadline for submission is Fridays at 5:00pm.
Square Dance-MS & PLUS w/Rounds 6:30 PM Alamo Palms
RV Resort Alamo (217) 737-5677 $6
Players Studio 7:00 PM McAllen Mobile Park McAllen (956) 682-3304 Free
Dance w/The Adel’s 7:00 PM Paradise Park RV Resort
Harlingen (956) 425-6881 $10
Encore Series: The Big Easy Live 7:00 PM Sunshine RV Resort Harlingen (956) 428-4137 Varies
Jason Whorlow “Piano Man” 7:00 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 $10
Dance w/Jayne’s Jukebox 7:00 PM Casa Del Sol Donna (956) 464-2272 $8
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6461 $8
2026-03-12
Thursday • March 12, 2026
RGV Woodcarvers Meeting 8:00 AM Las Palmas Community Center McAllen (816) 590-6521
RC Racing 8:30 AM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011
Pancakes & Waffles 9:00 AM The Grove San Juan Prices Varies
Advanced Square Dance Workshop w/Joe and Chris Saltel 9:30 AM Tropic Star RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-5957 $7.50
Country Jam 10:00 AM El Valle Del Sol Mission (717) 5526917 Free
Jam Luncheon 11:30 AM Pharr South Pharr (956) 787-7839
Jason Whorlow “The Piano Man” 12:00 PM Tequila Sunset South Padre Island (956) 761-6198
Jam Session 12:30 PM Pharr South Pharr (956) 787-7839
The Lady & The Outlaw 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033
Hunt for Treasures at Winter
Green Estates March 7
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Winter Green Estates, 500 N. Bryan Rd in Mission, is hosting its annual Spring Fling Flea Market Saturday March 7, from 8 a.m. to noon. Items being sold include jewelry, furniture, appliances, clothing, electronics, household items, lawn furniture, lamps, luggage, and golf clubs. Come and see what treasures you can find! •
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 $13+
Jam Session w/The Esquires 1:00 PM Bentsen Grove Resort Palmview (956) 585-7011 Free
Happy Hour w/Julia Cooper 3:00 PM Country Sunshine RV Resort Weslaco (956) 638-3158 PTH
Encore Series: The Big Easy Live 3:00 PM Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-3140 Varies
Concert Series: The Big Easy Live 7:00 PM Southern Comfort RV Resort Weslaco (956) 968-3140 Varies
Dance w/Diego & Edith 7:00 PM Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 376-1248 $10
Day Saturday, March 21, 2026 in
Our Southern Neighbor Never been to Mexico? You don’t know
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Revealed 2026 Upper Valley Art League Photography Exhibit 2025 PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION
The Upper Valley Art League is proud to announce the return of its Photography Exhibit, a revitalized showcase dedicated to the art and craft of photography. Revealed celebrates the expressive power of the medium through original works that explore light, composition, and imagination across a wide range of subjects and styles. Open to members working in film, digital, mobile and experimental techniques, the show invites artists to share their unique vision and approach to image-making. According to Cyndee Galindo, curator for the 2026 Photography Exhibit, “As artists we must drive the art of photography into a new era of expression. I see photography as a tool, just like painting, sculpture, or other artistic medium that serves an artist in order to express himself.”
Cyndee Galindo quotes Alfred Stieglitz: “Every photograph has an equivalent idea or emotion attached to it”.
The general public is invited to attend the opening reception of the 2026 Photography Exhibit, slated for Saturday, March 7, from 7 to 9 pm. Photography enthusiasts are especially welcome. The exhibit will continue through March 28.
Gallery hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Upper Valley Art League is located at 921 E. 12th Street in Mission, next to Speer Memorial Library. This event is FREE. •
Shop Parkwide Yard Sale
at Dream Valley
Ranch
March 6 -7
Special to Welcome
Home Winter Texan
Come and shop at the parkwide yard sale at Dream Valley Ranch, 2401 N. Abram Rd. in Mission, Friday, March
6, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Saturday, March
7, 8 a.m. to noon. For more information, call 956-519-3339. •
Hidalgo Coin Club Calendar of Events for March
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
Spring into the new season with coins as the Hidalgo Coin Club will host its monthly meeting Monday, March 9 at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce,1200 Ash Ave. at 7 p.m. At the meeting, we will talk about Hidalgo Coin Club plans for upcoming months. After the meeting, you can participate in a lively coin auction. You can also get a Coin Club Membership. The membership costs $25, and you can receive a membership card, free entry to Friday Night Coin Shows throughout the year, and a discounted price whenever we have coin raffles. You will also receive periodic updates of events throughout the year and put coins up at auction.
The Hidalgo Coin Club will have its second Friday Night Coin Show of the year Friday, March 13, at the McAllen Chamber of Commerce. The show will be from 69 p.m. Get yourself a new hobby. Dealers from throughout the RGV will get together to buy, sell, and/ or trade coins. At the Friday Night Show, you can buy/sell/trade with dealers and get your membership for 2026.
For more information, you can email hidalgocoinclub@gmail.com, visit our website at hidalgocoinclub. com, follow us on Facebook under Hidalgo Coin Club, and/or call Brent Garza at 956-655-4933 or Edgar Navejar at 956-424-2842. •
