I know you’ve heard me say it before…and I’ll keep saying it. There’s nothing quite like group travel. Seeing the world and sharing those experiences with others creates bonds that last a lifetime.
In the following pages, you’ll see highlights from our most recent adventure, and let me tell you, it was a blast reconnecting with our Winter Texan friends without waiting until November! The bonus? Escaping the Texas heat and soaking up that crisp, cool weather. This cruise was a little different from our usual trips, and everyone loved it so much that we’ve already started planning one for next fall.
What started as a single annual cruise has turned into so much more--local day tours, short overnights, and even extended land-and-sea adventures for those craving something new. The places we’ve been and the places we’re going all have these things in common: laughter, friendship, and memories made along the way.
This season, I encourage you to take a look at all the trips and tours we have planned. Join us! Whether it’s a day trip or a dream cruise, the adventure is waiting, and we’d love for you to be part of the fun!
Until next week…
WINTER TEXAN
Hello Travel Friends
Spilling the Tea on Fall Foliage 2025 Trip
Dear Travel Friends,
We all know how much fun Winter Texans have in the RGV during those chilly months up north, but don’t we want to get together with our friends year round?
I tested that theory and took a group of 43 on a Fall Foliage adventure round trip out of Boston in September. I wanted to try something new, and I figured we couldn’t go wrong with the land of lobster rolls and beautiful fall colors.
“When I saw this itinerary to such great ports and some extra fun in Boston, I was all in, “ explained Chris Wofford, who attended the tour.
The trip started out with a two-night stay in downtown Boston. We toured the city and even visited an interactive museum, where the whole group committed treason and threw tea into Boston Harbor. Huzzah!
“I was chosen to be one of the characters, and it was pretty fun acting like I was part of the action back in the 1700s with the group cheering me on,” Cory admitted.
After touring Boston, we boarded Royal Caribbean’s Brilliance of the Seas and headed north toward Canada. This new adventure had four unique ports (following the gorgeous fall foliage). First up was Portland, Maine, where several group members got their hands on fresh lobster rolls.
Helen Willis said, “The lobster was fantastic, and this town is beautiful!” The lighthouses were incredible to see in person and made you feel like you were standing in a Thomas Kinkade painting. Several group members also visited Kennebunkport while in port.
“We loved the charming little town. It was just darling, and the homes had so much character,” Danielle Tuttle said.
As the ship kept sailing north, the next three stops were Canadian. St. John’s was a quaint town with a gorgeous church full of incredible stained glass. Next up was Prince Edward
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
Sarah Denzer, Tour Manager
Island, where many group members visited the home that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables. This was the highlight of the trip for me. I had been wanting to visit PEI since I was seven years old. To tell you the truth, I had tears in my eyes as we walked off the ship and I saw the town with my very own eyes.
Once we got up to Green Gables, the quaint little home next to the famous Lake of Shining Waters had me in a daze. It was picturesque--surrounded by the beautiful cliffs and iconic little lighthouses. I loved it so much, my husband and I started looking into real estate there! So if you don’t see me next season, feel free to come visit me in Canada! Maybe they’ll let me dress up as Anne?
Our last stop was to Sydney, Nova Scotia, where one of the highlights was a great market with handcrafted items. One group member bought a stunning handmade beaded purse to add to her collection.
219 W Nolana McAllen, TX 78504
956.687.5115 www.welcomehomergv.com
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
Another highlight of traveling with Welcome Home RGV groups is all the extras and perks. Travel Kristy and I try our best to make sure everyone gets our VIP treatment. Guests on this trip were surprised with champagne in their cabins, little portrelated souvenirs to bring home, and even pre-stamped postcards in Boston for everyone to send home to friends and grandchildren.
“The little extras were so much fun, didn’t expect them, and they were great ideas that made us all smile. especially loved the postcard idea!” Sally Hardy shared with us.
Between the incredible views at all of the ports and the relaxed and fun-filled days at sea, this trip was a huge success! As we all started saying our goodbyes on the last evening, several were asking me, “Where are we going next?” It’s safe to say these group trips are fun anytime of the year. People flew in from all over the country to meet up for this one, and we plan to keep making that possible with more destinations and more fun soon.
Calendar Submissions!
For more information on submitting your events and activities, please e-mail: calendar@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
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.
“These girls always do it right. We love traveling with them because they take care of everything and we always have someone there to help us out. Us old people need help sometimes,” laughed Karen Muirhead.
Travel by Welcome Home tries to take the stress out of travel and do the hard part for you. (Although packing can sometimes be the hardest part! Other than that part, we have you covered.)
If you’re sad you missed out on the Fall Foliage fun, you can give our office a call and ask for me or Travel Kristy. We’ll give you all of the details about the 2026 Fall Foliage trip. These smallgroup trips fill up quickly, so don’t wait. And you can always see the latest and greatest in group travel on our website at welcomehomergv. com.
Grande Valley
The Rio Grande Valley is bursting with talent, and a new group is ready to join the scene this season: Valley Heat. This variety band moves effortlessly through R&B, oldies, country, blues, classic rock, jazz, dance hits, and easy listening favorites--perfect for happy hours, community dances, private parties, and special events. You may also catch them at select bars and restaurants across the Valley.
Audiences can expect a lively sing-along set, where no one sits still for long. Valley Heat’s playlist blends crowd-pleasers with a few deep cuts, keeping the dance floor moving while leaving room for those slow-dance moments. The band lineup includes the following:
• Jerry “Big Jerry” Albrecht – bass, keyboard, and vocals
• Mike Caldwell – drums and vocals
• Rob Spanski – electric guitar
• Ron Coronado – harmonica and vocals
• Nancy “Nan” Taylor – keyboard and vocals
Valley Heat will debut at El Vaquero Pavillion (8906 W. 3 Mile Rd., Mission) Friday, November 14, from 4 - 7 p.m.
Albrecht is a seasoned multi-instrumentalist with decades of experience in South Texas bands, from Poproxx to Vintage Station and Spikes on the Road. Big Jerry is known for his deep-cut selections and high-energy performances. Caldwell, a Southern California native, has spent more than 50 years behind the drums, performing at iconic LA venues, such as Troubadour, The Roxy, and
Winter Texan Spotlight: Camp McAllen
by
There’s a new park in town, and it’s all about immersing yourself in nature through fishing, walking the trails, kayaking, camping, and enjoying archery. Nestled behind a law office off of 23rd Street in McAllen is a hidden gem, Camp McAllen. The city opened the park over the summer, but it’s been in the works for nearly 25 years, according to Sarai Garcia, McAllen Parks & Recreation deputy director of programs.
The city acquired the property in the early 2000s--with the idea of creating a traditional campground--and got to work funding the project, primarily through matching grants. The plan was flushed out over the years, and construction began in 2024.
In addition to the campgrounds, which are enclosed by fencing and canopied by mesquite trees, the project focus is “to create a new space for our citizens to enjoy,” according to Garcia.
A manmade pond that came with the property serves as the central attraction, stocked with fish and surrounded by native landscape. It’s also a great spot for birding.
Whisky a Go Go and recording with respected blues and rock acts.
Spanski began gigging in Ohio at just 16, performing in country, blues, and southern-rock bands, including Gold Rush and Southern Jam. After a long hiatus, he’s returning to the stage with renewed passion and a gritty, expressive guitar style.
Coronado, known to many as “Ron the C,” brings 50 years of harmonica experience to Valley Heat. A former 99.5 KRIX radio DJ, he’s performed with groups--such as The Connectors and Bad Habit--and was featured for three consecutive years in the Valley’s Harmonica Fest as one of its top players.
Taylor, dubbed “that chick with soul” by Michigan fans, began as a classical pianist, later landing a steady lounge-singing gig in Grand Rapids. She also performed as Taylor-Scripps Music and joined various musicians on stage over the years.
Now a full-time Texan, Nan moved to Texas in 2023 and joined Regan James as The Lady & The Outlaw, which performs regularly across 55+ communities and at Riverside Club in Mission (beginning Thursday afternoons in January). Taylor brings her versatile powerhouse vocals and infectious energy to every show and is excited to join the band--in addition to performing with her duo.
“Our goal is simple,” Valley Heat shares. “Bring joyful vibes with songs people love--and a few they forgot they loved.” Valley Heat is now scheduling for the season. Contact Nancy Taylor at 616-4306753 or Jerry Albrecht at 956-624-5364. •
There are two loops surrounding the pond, which include a 12-pad campground available for rent on weekends, three fishing docks, an ADA-compliant kayak launch, and an archery range (with plans to host adult and children’s courses).
Visitors can bring your own kayaks and fishin and archery (no crossbows) gear or rent them from the storefront on site. Bicycles are also allowed, and visitors have already created some off-trail paths. Restrooms are also available.
Camp McAllen is open Tuesday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Camp McAllen is closed Monday for maintenance. This new McAllen park is located at 8621 N. 23rd. For more information, visit mcallenparks.net. •
Spotted in the RGV
Monarch butterflies slowly came in the last week of October--following the arrival of a cool front. Both were welcome guests in South Texas. The Rio Grande Valley is en route to where monarchs spend the winter before returning north next spring. The butterflies were spotted fluttering around local parks, nature centers, roadsides, and backyards while on their journey.
RATES STARTING AT *$3099 PER PERSON INTERIOR CABIN Based on Double Occupancy
*LIMITED AVAILABILITY
1 Night Pre-Hotel in Boston Breakfast Transfers to Cruise Port
11 Nights on the Celebrity Silhouette Rockland, Maine Halifax, Nova Scotia Sydney, Nova Scotia Quebec City, Quebec (Overnight)
Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island Portland, Maine
Port Charges, Taxes, Fees, Insurance & Gratuities
$450.00 non-refundable per person deposit due at booking
Airfare Not Included Final Payment Due June 10, 2026
Rates are per person, based on double occupancy, and subject to availability. Prices may change without notice. When initial rates sell out or a sale ends, prices may start at $4,757.00 per person Booking early ensures the greatest savings.
Eryn Reddell Wingert McAllen, TX
Things I Have Learned
A somewhat random and reckless look at life from a fairly old guy
by Bill Ward
The Bane of Eternalized Choices
Today’s Wisdom: Life is about choices. Some we regret, some we’re proud of. Some will haunt us forever. The message: we are what we chose to be
~Graham Brown
I just heard a new term the other day. Someone was noting that death “eternalizes” one’s choices.
I had never thought about eternalized choices before, but the idea seems to hold credence for me. As long as we are alive, we have the ability to say, “Oops, my bad.” We can fix bad decisions. We can change our opinions. We can mend broken relationships. We can ask for forgiveness. At the moment of our departure, however, all of our decisions and choices throughout our lifetime are locked in, never to be undone. At that point ,we own them forever.
The concept of eternalizing our choices rattled me a bit. All of us have had our moments in life when we made bad choices. How many of those are still written in our book of life, unfixed?
At the risk of taking on a topic that may be outside my typical ramblings on things learned, I share from another database in my brain. Having researched
usually done in the presence of others who occupy the next realm of existence. (There are literally hundreds of books and websites on life following death. You can easily check them out.)
That review covers every moment of our lives; all displayed in a manner of seconds. All the good, all the bad, all the drama and all the trauma is there. We get to see it, but we don’t get to fix it. At that point, it is eternalized forever. From then on, all we can do is lament our choices…or take pride in them.
One of the things I have learned is that I really don’t like carrying around regret. It gnaws at me, keeps poking at me, and steals my peace. On earth, time seems to be a healer--at least a little bit. In the next realm, I don’t know. What if regret isn’t healed by time?
Enough of these foreboding thoughts. If you are reading this today, your life has not yet been eternalized. You have time.
Lambs Loom
Faith-Filled Fingerprints
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
TI’m just sayin’. •
Bill Ward is a retired healthcare administrator from Minnesota and a regular columnist, author, and untalented rock ‘n’ roll musician, playing with the band Night Ryders. He winters at Casa Del Sol in Donna. You can contact Bill by email at bwward@ charter.net.
his past summer, we said goodbye to our dear friend, Ann Gamblin. As she stepped into eternity, Ann left her fingerprints of faith all over her life and ours. Ann loved Winter Texan season--so many friends coming in the doors, great conversations, and shared stories. She enjoyed our Sit-n-Knit area and all the chatter, from crochet patterns to kids…just sharing life. Ann lived a life of serving and loving others through the giftedness of her hands. She would spend hours seeking just the right project (of the many in her creative head) that would bring joy and encouragement to another person’s journey. She was determined to make sure the work of her hands was “just right,” a good and pleasing gift of giving to another. Her laughter raised the joy level all around the Lamb’s Loom and poured out all over everyone!
Eleven years ago, as we began this journey called The Lamb’s Loom, a friend reminded us of this verse. It describes our heart, our mission, and our desire to serve one another in this world. It hangs in the entrance of The Lambs’ Loom to remind and refocus us every day: May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands. ~Psalm 90:17
We are all so grateful for her friendship and sisterhood throughout the years. Ann’s example of living out her
faith in Jesus is forever an inspiration to us all. We love and miss you, Ann!
All of you are welcome to join us as we “stitch it forward” together, sending out love in every stitch. If you haven’t yet come by, we do hope you will join us this season. The Lamb’s Loom is open Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. We are located at 1102 W. Tamarack Ave. in McAllen. 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!
Perspectives An Unexpected Encounter With a Roadrunner
by Sheila Freeland
You never know how God will teach you or through what circumstances He will move. Can I share a story of a memorable lesson of how God spoke to me unexpectedly through a roadrunner?
was at a hospital in Tucson, AZ, because my mother had suddenly become very ill. She had been diagnosed with bacterial meningitis.
The doctors were not hopeful, and they painted a grim picture. was walking around in a daze and was disoriented. I had been in the hospital, not wanting to leave her side but feeling so helpless. My brother came in to take over.
I mindlessly left the hospital and headed to get something to eat. I chose an In-N-Out Burger just down the street. was in the drive-thru and noticed-off to the right--a roadrunner. See, we don’t see many of those here in Texas, so it had been quite a while since I had seen one, and it sparked enough in me to take this picture. As was trying to take the picture, the cashier quickly stuck her head out of the window and shouted happily, “His name is Larry!” What she didn’t know was that my father, who has been gone now for
10 years, was named Larry. It hit me, and just began crying. She probably thought it very strange that a woman in the drive-thru was crying over a roadrunner named Larry. Dad is gone and Mom is not doing well; it just overwhelmed me.
In times like these, miss my dad the most. I want him here to help make decisions and to comfort me. But in that moment, my Heavenly Father was here. Here with me. He knew what was going on and that needed a reminder to trust Him. He can guide me and comfort me. It seemed to snap me out of the fog I had been walking in because of the situation…even when all seemed dark and dreary and there was not much hope in sight, He was faithful in showing me that He is in control of everything. Sometimes He whispers through the wind, and other times He needs to shout, “His name is Larry!” for us to hear him and for us to know He is always with us, no matter our situation. No matter what you are facing today, your Heavenly Father wants you to know He is there, and you are not alone. In the book of John, He teaches us just that. Take comfort in these words from our Savior found in John 14:16-18, “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.”
or to learn more, go to SONshineMinistries.net
Dios le Bendiga (God Bless You) •
Pastor Branden and Sheila Freeland serve as pastors at Fig Tree RV Resort and Park Place, both in Harlingen, through Christian Resort Ministries (crmintl.org). They are also missionaries to Mexico through their ministry SONshine Ministries. Contact them through brandenfreeland@ sonshineministries.net,
$249,900
Wonderful 3/2 in Alamo CC, split bedroom floor plan, granite counter tops, new A/C, new (recent) roof, on the Golf course, low maintenance rock yard, wonderful 55+ community Curt Riester (956) 455-4195
Wagon City South, Mission
$110,000
$239,900
HIDDEN GEM - 2/2 Oak Creek home in the wonderful 55+ community, Alamo Country Club. FULLY FURNISHED home features split bedroom floor plan w/ spacious living room. This home has been updated and remodeled extensively since 2023. A MUST SEE!! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
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,
Located in the desirable 55+ gated community of Green Gate Grove, this charming and well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1-bath home offers comfort, convenience, and thoughtful upgrades throughout.
Heather Escobedo (956) 271-3683
Carol Kerr Welch, TREC540183, MHSLSP00048089, (956) 900-8487
Wintergreen Estates, Mission
This is a must-see! This furnished 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bath is in the cozy 55+ community of Wagon City North.
Heather Escobedo (956) 271-3683
$82,000
$339,000
Don’t miss this immaculate and thoughtfully designed residence sits on a desirable corner lot and offers a cozy and functional layout.
and a 5-stage reverse osmosis water system. A Must See!!! Curt Riester, TREC771832, MHSLSP00047858, (956) 455-4195
Wagon City North, Mission
Heather Escobedo (956) 271-3683
Restful Valley Ranch , Mission
Restful Valley Ranch, Mission
$59,900
Tired of Renting? Ready to Buy? Check out this 14’ x 40’ Schult mobile home, perfectly situated on a corner lot in Restful Valley Ranch, a 55+ community. Heather Escobedo, TREC686290, (956) 271-3683
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
You’ll
Green Gate Grove, Palmview, Mission
Aladdin Villas, Mission, Mission
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
Alamo Country Club, Alamo
Retama Village, Mission
Retama Village, Mission
Event
Calendar
Event Calendar
Event Calendar
View
View the complete season calendar on our website!
View
Includes
Includes detailed event information, directions and more!
DANCES ENTERTAINMENT & SHOWS
Calendar of Events
Wednesday • Nov. 12, 2025
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club
Includes detailed event information, directions and more!
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-6461 $8
Thursday • Nov. 13, 2025
RGV Woodcarvers Get Togethers 8:00 AM Las Palmas Community Center McAllen (956) 681-3320
Y-Cook Lunch 11:30 AM Bentsen Grove Resort
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.
Palmview (956) 585-7011
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club
Mission (956) 581-1033 $13+
Happy Hour w/Diego & Edith 3:00 PM Pine to Palm Resort Park Weslaco (956) 376-1248 PTH
Happy Hour w/Steven May 5:00 PM Llano Grande Resort Mercedes (956) 565-2638 PTH
Friday
• Nov. 14, 2025
Craft Fair 8:00 AM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club
Mission (956) 581-1033 $13+
Happy Hour w/Bob Buttermore 3:00 PM
Snow to Sun RV Resort Weslaco (956) 9680322 PTH
Riverside Club Fish Fry 4:00 PM Riverside
Club Mission (956) 581-1033 $14.99+
Dance w/George & The Texas Outlaws 6:00 PM Greengate Grove Palmview (956) 581-1932
Karaoke 6:30 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 787-9959
Dance w/Curt James 7:00 PM Ranchero Village Senior Resort Park Weslaco (956) 968-6223 $9
Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Bit-O-Heaven RV and MH Resort Donna (603) 396-2786 $10 Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Fun N Sun RV Resort San Benito (956) 399-5800 $8/$10
Dance w/Texas Wheels 7:00 PM Victoria Palms RV Resort Donna (956) 249-2266
Wednesday • Nov. 26, 2025
Dreamer River Tour 1:00 PM Riverside Club Mission (956) 581-1033 $13+
Dance w/Steven May & The Southern Knights 7:00 PM Tip O Texas RV Resort Pharr (956) 7876461 $8
TThe Island Buzz: New Restaurants
Special to Welcome Home Winter Texan
he Island is always evolving to provide its community and visitors with new and innovative experiences, especially when it comes to restaurants. These new restaurants perfectly blend coastal-inspired cuisine and dining experiences shaped by the beauty of the coast.
Isla Balli: Where brunch meets the Island
South Padre Island doesn’t just have beautiful, scenic beaches; it’s also a place that knows how to do brunch right. Staying true to the authenticity of the culture around, Isla Balli serves up creative plates that blend Mexican and American flavors with fresh twists and local ingredients. The vibrant and peaceful atmosphere of the Island is reflected throughout the restaurant.
Owner Alexandra Anzaldua said Isla Balli perfectly encapsulates the culture and energy of the Island and its surrounding region.
“I created Isla Ballí to honor the heart of South Padre Island, a place where locals feel at home and visitors fall in love,” Anzaldua said. “It’s a restaurant that captures the feeling of being on vacation, surrounded by fresh, coastal flavors and a vibrant atmosphere inspired by our Island’s beauty.”
Address: 5001 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
Coast oyster or tropical cocktails, this menu is guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s cravings. The Island’s newest oyster bar combines the spirit of the Island with a modern touch and a creative menu that will leave you wanting to try more!
Address: 5801 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
Henrietta’s: Fine Bayfront Dining Step into Henrietta’s Bayfront to experience the best of both worlds: contemporary elegance and a stunning up-close view of the beautiful Laguna Madre Bay. The menu is diverse enough for everyone to find something to savor. Discover local favorites, including tacos and seafood, as well as hearty entrees and other gourmet dishes. With the large windows facing the bay, you’ll see that you have found the ideal spot to enjoy an Island sunset.
Hours: Monday - Sunday, 3 - 10 p.m.
Address: 1707 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
Beyond the Ordinary Dining
Inspired by resident captains who charter fishing trips off the restaurant’s docks, the spirit of the Island comes to life here. Whether you’re looking for selections of Gulf
For more information on restaurants on the Island, check out visitsouthpadreisland. com. •
United Way of South Texas seeks volunteers for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program. Volunteers will serve as greeters, tax preparers, and quality checkers at VITA sites throughout Hidalgo and Starr Counties during the 2026 tax season. All volunteers will be provided with the essential training materials and receive comprehensive training in tax law to become IRS-certified at the advanced level. Volunteers will assist an average of three to 10 hours each week.
In 2025, over 130 high school students, college students, professionals, and community members volunteered in United Way’s VITA Program and helped 3,388 families. The families saved approximately $1,016,400 in tax preparation fees and received $5.1 million in federal tax refunds. Between January 26 and April 4, volunteers at 13 sites will serve families in Hidalgo and Starr counties. This year, individuals or families with a household income of $67,000 or less may be eligible to benefit from the service at no cost.
Join the VITA team today! To volunteer with VITA, register at volunteersotx. org or call 956-686-6331. •
CONVENTION CENTER
MCALLEN CONVENTION CENTER
JANUARY 20 & 21, 2026 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
700 CONVENTION CENTER BLVD (CORNER WARE EXPRESSWAY
JANUARY 20 & 21, 2026 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM 700 CONVENTION CENTER BLVD (CORNER OF WARE & EXPRESSWAY 83)
BROWNSVILLE EVENT CENTER
BROWNSVILLE EVENT CENTER JANUARY 22, 2026 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
JANUARY 22, 2026 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
1 EVENT CENTER, PAREDES LINE RD. (BROWNSVILLE TX)
1 EVENT CENTER, PAREDES LINE RD. (BROWNSVILLE, TX) for more information call or visit us online! 956-687-5115 www.wintertexanexpo.com
