Monday Jan.28th

Winter Graphics

More Orkut Picture Scraps

I miss the snow!!!!  I was just remembering when I was quite young, like 9 or 10 going out to our golf course in Jefferson, Iowa and we would sled down the huge hill there.
When I go by the high school as school is getting out I cant believe all the parents in their cars bumper to bumper there to pick up their kids, It's not even cold here, like when I had to walk to school, I thought nothing of walking in 10  or 20 degree weather, and some times much colder.
The school parking lot here is full of cars belonging to teenagers, there weren't very many kids drive to school when I was a teenager. Also all the kids can get free breakfasts, lunches, and after school snacks. I always went home for lunch but some days in grade school I begged to get to eat at the school cafeteria, and there were always kids who worked in the lunchroom scraping plates and rinsing milk bottles and they ate free! So if you could not afford lunch, you could work in the lunch room. I also was so envious of farm kids who got to ride the bus to school and back, a few times I spent the night with a friend who lived on a farm and I got to ride the bus, it was a thrill for me!!
Yes one of those reminiscing days!!!

I probably will do the newsletter in Feb. Sorry

News Letter

RVE CLUB MEETING – Chair John Geer called meeting to order. We recited “Pledge to the Flag” & sang “God Bless America”. Meeting closed by singing club song, ”We Love Our Valley Home”.

Accompanist – Jan Delashmit

Invocation – Cathy Probst

Secretary Report – Maxine Topel

Treasurer Report – Sandy Novak

MANAGEMENT REPORT: Manager Craig asked that we put small trash in a bag to prevent blowing when placed in dumpster. Cardboard boxes should be broken down. Concerning pool repair, he called repair people, was assured part would arrive soon. He announced $100 deposit no longer applies to permanent park models in 99s, will check with Walter on RVs that are left here year round. RVs pay if they want to reserve same spot following year. Dana said a tiny bottle of pills was found in row B; if you are missing these, they are in office. Website for park is riovalleyestates.com

Treasurer Sandy Novak's gave her report. It was approved.

Properties chair Ron Zoeller reported kitchen blinds have been ordered, should arrive mid-Feb. Board Members -- Properties – Ron Zoeller, Mike Reiff, Larry Pavlis; Finance – Sandy Novak, Gordon Amos, Jim Moeller.

Brock Laing announced Lindley Creek entertains Friday, $8 pp. This is family group with variety of Ozark Mountain music. Come for potluck 4:45 p.m. prior to Friday entertainment with Mary Nelson & Red Tyler chairing. 59 attended last Friday. By re-arranging seating & starting a few minutes earlier, this allows more time for Brock to set up for entertainment.

All are invited to Super Bowl Party Feb. 3, 5 p.m. Burgers, hot dogs, bring snack.

FREE movie this week “I Can Only Imagine”. Brock tells us Ron Zoeller has agreed to make movie arrangements & next season following Laing’s departure from park. Thanks, Ron!

Monday Night Dance is tonight with Diego and Edith, $6 pp, 7-9:30. Craig and Dana Daves chair. Residents should stay away from hall noon to 3 p.m. for crew set up & floor cleaning. Craig requests we avoid outside behind big hall where he sets up orange cones to assist bands in unloading their equipment.

Helen Curtis asks you to call 603-674-3869, when you know of someone needing card due to illness/death in family. Cards to sign are in office area. If you call Helen, leave message and name. She will return calls if she knows who called. Cards this week are Gene Calkins K-7, hospital in McAllen, health issues; Arwin VanWyk #83, sis-in-law passed away; Carl Sanders in 99s, in hospital, health issues.

TY to Judy Nordquist, Lynn Stamp & Doug Novak who reviewed club guidelines. Changes/additions suggested were: 1) Monday meeting start time change to 9 a.m. 2) Finance committee, add statement “recommended the person have some computer experience.” 3) Nominating committee, delete number “5” from number needed on committee. 4) No soliciting, selling or business except those pertaining to health and wellbeing, delete the word “wellbeing”. After some discussion, all were approved.

Ed Tice & friends have volunteered to do Saturday breakfast for 2 more weeks in Feb. Looking for someone to take over after that.

Ice Cream on Sundays draws big sociable crowd. Looking for someone to chair this during February. Volunteers?

Donna Gabbert keeps us informed with a blog. Find it at www.donnasramblingsatrve.blogspot.com ..

Club website by Judi DeKoning is RVEWTC.com .. for “members only”, the password is riovalley.



Upcoming Events:

Jan. 29 – Kansas Day, Linn’s, 11:30 a.m. Hilkers chair

Jan. 30 – Blood profile results, in card room

Jan. 30 – Bean Feed, 4:30 p.m., $2 pp, Topels chair

Jan. 31-Feb. 2 – South Padre Island Kite Fest

Feb. 3 – Super Bowl Party in Friendship Hall, 5 p.m. Laings chair

Feb. 5 – MN Luncheon, Jalisco on N. Westgate, 11:30 a.m.

Feb. 7 – Craft Sale, 8 a.m. to noon .. pies needed, Mary Norby chairs

Feb. 8 – NE Breakfast, Josecito’s by hotel, 8 a.m. Rexroads chair

Feb. 10 – Anniversary Celebration, 2 p.m. .. need chairperson

Feb. 11 – Memorial Service to honor residents, past & present, we lost in 2018

Feb. 11 – Free hearing checks after Memorial Service

Feb. 13 – Cancer Tea, 10:30 a.m., $5 pp, Dianna Bruce chairs

Feb. 17 – Farewell for Brock & Adrienne Laing, 3 p.m.

Election for Club Chairperson for Feb./March was held today. Judy Nordquist withdrew her name from ballot and John Geer was elected chair.

TY to “anonymous” who provided donuts today .. also to the person who purchased new clock in Friendship Hall.

Dave Johnson #93 reports park directories are being printed and will be on sale next Monday, Feb. 4. Price increases to $2.

Activity Calendars available per Judi DeKoning. Give any changes to Judi, #67. Editor Mary Lou Benson asked for WRITTEN notes if you want something in newsletter. If it doesn’t appear, it MIGHT be that you didn’t give her a note!

Marge Rexroad said a quilt ruler is missing .. if you have it, please return. Leave sewing room in condition you found it.

Ron Zoeller continues to take recycling items on Tuesdays at

1 p.m. You may leave items in back of his car.

Park Breakfast is at Fiesta Tex-Mex Thursdays, 8 a.m.

Wednesday Social Hours .. all invited to join in. Bring snacks and choice of beverage. None this week due to Bean Feed.

“Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?”

John Norris is taking pics for RVE Picture Directory. If you haven’t had yours taken, you may email a good close up pic to John at jdnorris811@att.net.

Golden Age Olympics sponsored by McAllen Parks & Rec has replaced Senior Olympics. This is open to anyone in Rio Valley area; you can enter individually or as part of a park team. Entry fee is $7 for 1st event, $5 for each add’l event. Club pays $7 fee. A list/sign up sheet is in main hall. Park will provide park tee shirt for each resident entering. Included are many card games, sporting games, baking .. For more info, contact John Norris #246.

Sock Hop last Thursday was a success. This was the 9th year this has been held. Chair Ken Barnhart thanked his committee and others who helped. He’s feeling better thanks to prayers of so many. Best table decoration awards went to 1) George/Sharyl Krantz; 2) Robert/Mary Norby; 3) Linda Miller table. In spite of a wardrode malfunction, Al and Jewel Kruckman were named top jitterbuggers. Second place went to Tom and Mary Lou Benson. Doesn’t Fred Goldsberry play and sing the best songs?

“People are funny. They want the front of the bus,

middle of the roqd, qnd back of the church.”

Kansas Day is Tuesday, Jan. 29, 11:30 a.m. at Linn’s. Come for fellowship, sign up in back of hall. Hillkers chair.

Get $2 pp tickets for Bean Feed to be held Jan. 30, 4:30 p.m. Dick and Max Topel chair. You may set up tables after noon.

Plan to sample variety of foods after Feb. 4 meeting when Bar-B-Cuties will bring what they have to offer….free.

Feb. 5 is date of MN Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. at Jalisco, 1501 N. Westgate. ?? ask Juanita 218-784-8496

Craft Sale Chair Mary Norby says 47 tables have been reserved for the Feb. 7 sale. Several are new crafters. There is a sign up sheet for pies which don’t have to be homemade. In charge of the kitchen are Sally Hejlik and Sharon Sprague. Mary has flyers to be distributed throughout Valley and welcomes help in delivering these to other parks, etc.

Nebraska Breakfast will be at Josecito’s by Weslaco hotel at

8 am on Feb. 8. Contact Marge at #287 if questions.

Jewel Kruckman announced couples celebrating 50-60-65-70 or more wedding anniversary should attend the Anniversary Celebration Sunday, Feb. 10, at 2 p.m. Celebrants may bring items they wish to be displayed and everyone is urged to come help them party. There is a sign up sheet. This will be held during ice cream Sunday. Still need chair for this.

You may purchase $5 pp tickets for the Cancer Tea to be held ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​February 13. This year’s theme is “Lots of Love”. Chair is Dianna Bruce. Time is 10:30 a.m. Bring tea cup & saucer for

exchange. You should sign your tickets for prizes. There are also raffles with tickets being sold for those items.

According to calendar, annual Memorial Service would be next Monday. Due to scheduling, this will be held Feb. 11 instead at beginning of club meeting with Paul Delashmit conducting service. We will remember these residents who died in 2018: Marie McClurg, Herschel Caldwell, Edith Duffy, Ken Farley, Dorothy Borah, Bob Bruce, Patricia Olafson, Jaqueline Smit, Josie Miller, Bud Lykken, Harell Aderton, Tony McLaughlin, Roland Preister, Harvey Madsen, Jo Solberg, Thomas Anderson, Kenneth Eshelman. Is anyone not included? If so, please let chair person know.

For anyone wishing free hearing checks, these will be given after Feb. 11 memorial service. You need to call for appointment to have this done.

Also on the 11th, we’ll hear about Stroke Prevention at meeting.

Plan to attend FAREWELL PARTY for Brock and Adrienne Laing is Feb. 17, 3 p.m. in Friendship Hall

Kathy Cochran chairs the Old West Party Feb. 21; tickets at $10 pp are being sold. Ticket comes with meal of pulled pork, cowboy beans and dessert Table covers will be provided but you
should bring your own drinks & table service. Get your costume ready. Doors will open at 5, plan to eat at 5:30.

Looking ahead, Veteran’s Dinner is scheduled for Feb. 28 with Linda Palermo as chair. Tickets on sale next week.

Pat Printy chairs ROPA Style Show March 14, 1 p.m. If you have anything you would like to model from ROPA, thrift store, Good Will, wherever, see sign up sheets.

Looking ahead. Ed & Charilyn Hover chair the Iowa potluck dinner in Friendship Hall March 6, noon.

Plan to attend March 16 Corn Beef & Cabbage dinner chaired by Gonnermans. Tickets sales end on March 4.

“Why do banks charge a fee on “’insufficient funds’

when they know there is not enough money?”

Here’s a corrected address for former resident Marilyn Babbitt if you wish to send her a card. Last week’s did not include street address. She is at Pioneer Valley Sr. Living, 400 Sergeant Square Drive, Room 629, Sgt. Bluff, IA 51054.

If you haven’t seen the South Padre Island Kite Show, check this out! An indoor display will be in Convention Center Jan. 31, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. For outdoor competition, go past the Convention Center, on the bay side, on Feb. 1 & Feb. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Many take along snacks or even a grill for hot dogs, burgers, etc.

Remember when?

Some folks never owned their own home, never wore Levis, never set foot on a golf course, never traveled out of the country or had a credit card.

All newspapers were delivered by boys & all boys delivered newspapers. My brother delivered a newspaper, 6 days a week. It cost 7 cents a paper of which he got to keep 2 cents. He had to get up at 6 every morning. On Saturday, he had to collect the 42 cents from his customers. His favorite customers were the ones who gave him 50 cents, told him to keep the change. His least favorite were the ones who seemed to never be home on collection day.

“The funny thing about bucket seats is that

not everybody has the same size bucket.”



GAME RESULTS - Place scores, winner names, complete info on dates & name of game in plastic container back of Friendship Hall. WRITE LEGIBLY!

BOWLING – Pins & Cues – Jan. 25 –

Women’s High Game/Series – Venita Lingle 142/391

BRIDGE – Jan. 22 –

1st – Ed Hover 2910 2nd – Dick Gibson 2820

Jan. 24 –

1st – Catherine Donovan score? 2nd – Ed Hover score?

Jan. 26 –

1st – Sue Shaffer 3130 2nd – Ed Hover 1550

CANASTA – Table of 4 –

Jan. 19 – Russel Branstetter, Marilyn Cummins 27685

Jan. 23 – Jewel Kruckman, Juanita Fisher 30610

Jan. 25 – Judy Greenlee, Grace Thornton 30995

Table of 6 –

Jan. 19 – Patty Lamp, Juanita Fisher, Judy Shively 33785

CRIBBAGE – Jan. 23 – 1st – Grace Thornton 744

2nd – Lyle Koste 724 3rd – Larry Ateah 697

DOMINOS – Mexican Train – Jan. 22 – Mary Lou Sirovy, Ron Baker, Marilyn Cummins, Virginia Baker, Diane Branstetter, Janel Baker, Nancy Gonnerman, Mary Nelson, Maud Fisher, Ken Borah, Donna Gabbert, Virgil Tyler.. Verna Fischer Jan. 27 – Ray Miller, Janie Maxwell, Grace Thornton, Mary Lou Sirovy, Ron Baker, Diana Ateah, Vic Greenlee, Margaret Morrow, Ann Johnson, Ken Borah, Dick Topel, Catherine Donovan, Janel Baker, Patty Lamp, Mary Lou Benson

DUMMY RUMMY – Jan. 26 –

1st – Virginia Baker 176 2nd – Dean Ricke 204

3rd – Stacey Johnson 228 4th – TomBenson 242

EUCHRE – Jan. 22 –

1st – Al Kruckman 46 2nd – Chuck Kopsell 41

GOLF –

Executive – Jan. 25 – Men’s Low - Dave Hicks 35

Tie Second – John Quail & Jim Moeller 36

PINOCHLE – Single Deck – Jan. 26 –

1st – Grace Thornton 519 2nd – Mari Bauer 472

SHUFFLING - Jan. 23 – Ross McAuley, Ron Henderson

Jan. 25 – Ken Blum, LeRoy Larson

TEXAS HOLD'EM POKER – Jan. 26 – 1st – Jim Rader

2nd – Harriet Stromer 2nd – June Clement

TIC – Jan. 23 –

1st – Patti Lamp 94 2nd – Wayne Carter 139

3rd – Gene Valley 161 4th Max Reynolds 165

Carl Moss scored 516 for high tonight 😊

Mon. Jan 21st

 Nominated to serve as Club Chairperson for months of February & March were John Geer & Judy Nordquist.  Election will be held at next Monday’s meeting.

   Dave Johnson #93 is working on park directories.  If you have changes from last year’s info, he needs this by Jan. 25.  New directories will be on sale Feb. 4.

  Activity Calendars available per Judi DeKoning.  If supply is depleted, office will print one for you.  Give any changes to Judi, #67.

  Notify editor (written notes appreciated) Mary Lou Benson, Lot #103, 956-532-9665, of items you wish to be printed in weekly newsletter.  Also appreciate being notified of changes in chairman, times of activities, etc.

   Park Breakfast is at Fiesta Tex-Mex Thursdays, 8 a.m.

   Wednesday Social Hours .. all invited to join in.  Bring snacks & choice of beverage.  No Wednesday Social Hour this week as committee is setting up for Sock Hop.

“A guy knows he’s old when he’s cautioned to

slow down by his doctor instead of the police.”

   John Norris will be taking pics for RVE Picture Directory Tuesday, 1-3 p.m. and during Ice Cream on Sunday afternoon.  If you haven’t had yours taken, & can not be available for these sessions, email a good close up pic to John at jdnorris811@att.net.

  Golden Age Olympics sponsored by McAllen Parks & Rec has replaced Senior Olympics.  This is open to anyone in Rio Valley area; you can enter individually or as part of a park team.  Entry fee is $7 for 1^st event, $5 for each add’l event. We voted club pay the $7 fee.  A list/sign up sheet is in main hall.  Park will provide park tee shirt for each entering.  Included are many card games, sporting games, baking, other events, bean bags (??) 😊 For more info, contact John Norris #246.

“Times sure change .. Somewhere along the way,

things went from Flower Power to Power Naps.”

    Plan to attend Wednesday, Jan. 23, Park Pizza Party at Peter Piper Pizza, 11:30 a.m.  Bring your mug, you get free pop.   See Dean Ricke at #72 if you need a mug.

   Tickets are going fast for the Sock Hop to be held this Thursday, the 24^th.  Get tickets at Barnhart's or Ken's za, office.  Applause greeted chair Ken Barnhart when he appeared at meeting.  He said MRI shows compression fracture, he’ll have injection Friday.  We’re glad he’s on the mend!  Ken thanked his committee who have all ready to go. Doors open 5:15 p.m. & not sooner, kitchen opens 5:30.   Hot dogs will be sold 25 cents each, soda/chips, 10 cents.  Bring small change, no large bills, for purchases.  Decorate tables beginning Thursday noon.  Games & entertainment by Fred Goldsberry begins at 6 p.m.

  Kansas Day is Tuesday, Jan. 29, 11:30 a.m. at Linn’s.  Come for fellowship, sign up in back of hall.

  Get your $2 pp tickets for Bean Feed which will be held Jan. 30, 4:30 p.m.  Dick & Max Topel chair.

   Craft Sale Chair Mary Norby says 48 tables have been reserved for the Feb. 7 sale.  Several are new crafters.  There is a sign up sheet for pies.  In charge of the kitchen are Sally Hejlik & Sharon Sprague.

   Jewel Kruckman announced anyone celebrating their 50-60-65-70 or more wedding anniversary should attend the annual Anniversary Celebration Sunday, Feb. 10, at  2 p.m.  Celebrants may bring items they wish to be displayed and everyone is urged to come help them party. There is a sign up sheet.  This will be held during ice cream Sunday.  Would someone like to chair?

  You may purchase $5 pp tickets for the Cancer Tea to be held February 13.  This year's theme is “Lots of Love”.  Chair is Dianna Bruce.  Time is 10:30 a.m. Bring tea cup & saucer for exchange.

   The FAREWELL PARTY for Brock & Adrienne Laing is Feb. 17, 3 p.m. in Friendship Hall.  Everyone is urged to attend!!

   Kathy Cochran who chairs the Old West Party Feb. 21 said tickets at $10 pp will be sold beginning next Monday.  Ticket comes with full meal.  More details later.

   Pat Printy chairs ROPA Style Show March 14, 1 p.m.  If you have anything you would like to model from ROPA, thrift store, Good Will, wherever, see sign up sheets.

  Here’s a corrected address if you wish to send card to ailing Marilyn Babbitt, a former resident.  She is at Pioneer Valley Sr. Living, Room 629, Sgt. Bluff, IA 51054.

    If you haven’t seen the South Padre Island Kite Show, check this out!  An indoor display will be in Convention Center on the Island on Jan. 31, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.  For outdoor competition, go past the Convention Center, on the bay side, on Feb. 1 & Feb. 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Many take along snacks .. or even a grill to cook hot dogs, burgers, etc.

Editor’s note .. “I’m only responsible for what I say ..

not for what you understand!!” .. OR SHOULD I SAY?

“I’m NOT responsible for what YOU say ..

not for what I understand!!”

WRITTEN NOTES PLEASE !!!

GAME RESULTS  - Place scores, winner names, complete info on dates & name of game in plastic container back of Friendship Hall.  WRITE LEGIBLY!

BOWLING – Pins & Cues – Jan. 18 –

 Women’s High Game/Series – Venita Lingle         189/488

BRIDGE – Jan. 15 -

 1^st – Dick Gibson               5240       2^nd – Sue Shaffer    2610

                     Jan. 17 –

 1^st – Ed Hover                    2160       2^nd – Dick Gibson   2150

 1^st – Catherine Donovan Score?   2^nd – Sue Shaffer Score?

CANASTA –  Table of 4 –

 Jan. 14 – Marge Rexroad, Jeanie Burkinshaw           30485

                Table of 6 – Jan. 16 –

 Fran Hryniw, Juanita Fisher, Nancy Argo                 32115

                                       Jan. 18 -

 Jewel Kruckman, Judy Greenlee, Grace Thornton 37240

DOMINOS – Mexican Train – Jan. 15 – Diane Branstetter, Dianna Miller, Mary Lou Benson, Janel Baker, Dick Topel, Vic Greenlee, Carl Sanders, Stacey Johnson, Ray Miller, Mary Christianson, Catherine Donovan  Jan. 20 – Marge Reishus, Mary Lou Sirovy, Dick Topel, Mary Christianson, Virginia Baker, Dianna Miller, Janel Baker, Janie Maxwell, Ann Johnson, Ray Miller, Patty Lamp

DUMMY RUMMY – Jan. 19 –

 1^st – David Clement          219        2^nd – Vic Greenlee     233

 3^rd – Mary Christianson  245        4^th – Ron Henderson 259

EUCHRE – Jan. 15 –

 1^st – Allen Swanson             48         2^nd – Al Kruckman     37

GOLF –                Date       Low Gross            Low Net

Monte Cristo       ??   Mark Fisher – 77   Neil Kommer  70

                                                                            Dave Origer    82

Palmview             ??   Neil Kommer   80   Paul Sprague  78

                                     Vic Greenlee    80

Tierra Santa  Jan. 17-Mark Fisher    77   Vic Greenlee   70

                                                                                Neil Kommer 71

Executive       Jan. 18 –

                Men’s Low – Dave Johnson  35   Vic Greenlee    36

PINOCHLE – Single Deck – Jan. 19 –

 1^st – Grace Thornton       478         2^nd – Ed Marcukaitis  462

SHUFFLING – Jan. 18 – Leroy Larson, Lyle K., Mike Oster, Dick T   (please put last names on sheet)

TEXAS HOLD'EM POKER – Jan. 19 –  1^st – John Quail

 2^nd – David Clement         3^rd – Lynn Stamp

TIC – Jan. 16 –

 1^st – Sandy Lenius             143         2^nd – Paul Sprague   152

 3^rd – Patti Lamp                158         4^th – Carol Jones      176

Something to think about this Monday afternoon ..

I was at the airport checking in at the gate when an airport employee asked, “Has anyone put anything in your baggage without your knowledge?”  I replied, “If it was without my knowledge, how would I know?”  He smiled & nodded, “That’s why we ask.”

…

When I arrived at a car dealership to pick up our car after a service, I was told the keys had been locked in it.  I went to the service department & found a mechanic working feverishly to unlock the driver’s side door.  As I watched from the passenger side, I instinctively tried the door handle & discovered that it was unlocked.  “Hey,” I announced to the technician, “It’s open!”

His reply, “I know, I already did that side.”

Dog Parvo

From Dianna Bruce...
O.k. Rio Valley folks. This is Not my regular post Amos got sick today so took him to the vet he has been diagnosed with parvo. He is in the animal hospital f I don't take him out of the park so he has caught it here. So please watch your dogs as it is very contiguous. Please be sure all shots are up to date. Also please pick up after your dogs as can be transmitted that way which of course also means dog park as well. We don't know how long Amos will be gone he has had several shots and a catheter for antibodies . The vet said possibly up to 4 days. She said so many people here in the Valley don't get shots for their pets so parvo is very is a Seriouse problem. SO PRAYERS FOR MY LITTLE MAN. 

Also remember there's stray dogs in here all the time. Who knows if they were ever vaccinated

Jan. 14th

RVE CLUB MEETING – Chair John Geer called meeting to order. We recited “Pledge to the Flag” & sang “God Bless America”. Meeting closed by singing club song, ”We Love Our Valley Home”.

Accompanist – Jan Delashmit
Invocation – John Geer - Andy Rooney’s “Things I’ve Learned”
Secretary Report – Maxine Topel
Treasurer Report – Sandy Novak
John Geer is checking with company that would give a 5-10 minute talk, then free screening for those interested on hearing loss .. plus donuts. More on this next week.

MANAGEMENT REPORT: Manager Craig Daves asked that we return yellow cards placed in our mailboxes about package pickup to office Concerning pool heater, repairs will be made soon; hot tub jets are working but do not “play” with settings. A new kitchen air conditioner is on order. Joe’s Air is coming to check gas smell in back room heater. IMPORTANT…If management finds WHO is picking up dog poop, then dropping in someone else’s yard, you will be in big trouble! Grace Thornton mentioned the light flickering on & off behind big hall. This will be checked into. Website for park is riovalleyestates.com

Treasurer Sandy Novak's gave her report. It was approved.

Properties chair Ron Zoeller reported curtains are on order for kitchen. Rope light replacement has been reviewed per Brock & Craig’s suggestions and proposal will be presented next week. Mark Probst said at cost of $ per chair he would clean these, looking for volunteers who would help him. Board Members -- Properties – Ron Zoeller, Mike Reiff, Larry Pavlis; Finance – Sandy Novak, Gordon Amos, Jim Moeller.

Brock Laing said entertainment chairs for next season, Marylyn & Lucy attended showcase with him last week & have booked some for next season. This Friday night, come enjoy Adam Pope & Rebel Roots, $7 pp. They were here a couple yrs ago, remember base player in particular & she was great! They feature faith, family, country & rockabilly. Brock announced D-9 has been sold with price more than 3 digits. Good news-- vacancies have been filled for Feb. 1 with Lindley Creek ($8 pp) & Feb. 22 with Kelli Marie ($7 pp). Come for potluck 5 p.m. prior to Friday entertainment with Mary Nelson & Red Tyler chairing. Good crowd last week!

Monday Night Dances begin tonight with Country Roland Jr., $6 pp .. 7-9:30 p.m. Craig & Dana Daves chair. Residents should stay away from hall noon to 3 p.m. for crew to set up & floor cleaning. If you don't know, dances are BYOB.

Free Thursday night movies will begin January 17.

Helen Curtis asks you to call 603-674-3869, when you know of someone needing card due to illness/death in family. Sam is filling in this week & next. Cards to sign are in office area. If you call Helen, leave message & name. She will return calls if she knows who called. Cards this week up for Carleen Basler, hospital with back issues, now home; Louisa Rodriguez, grandson passed away; Petra Lopez, hospital with health issues; Del Telfor, hospital with pneumonia.

Announcement from Judy Nordquist along with Lynn Stamp & Doug Novak are checking Rio Valley Estates guidelines (club not park) .. We are bringing guidelines up to date; they are printed in park directories. If you have an addition or correction, please write it up, sign your name & give to one of these folks. Turn in by Friday, Jan. 18.

Sat. morning breakfasts are on .. thanks to Ed Tice, his Moravia IA friends plus the Printys from Dunkerton, IA! Come 7 – 8:30 a.m. for pancakes & sausage.

Donna Gabbert keeps us informed with a blog. Find it at www.donnasramblingsatrve.blogspot.com ..

Club website by Judi DeKoning is RVEWTC.com .. for “members only”, the password is riovalley.

Upcoming Events:

Jan. 16 – Ladies Salad Luncheon, noon
Jan. 18 – Wellness Screening, Blood Draw, 6:30 a.m., 12 hr. fasting
Jan. 24 – Sock Hop, doors open 5:15, kitchen opens 5:30 p.m.
Jan. 30 – Bean Feed, 4:30 p.m., $2 pp, Topels chairing
Feb. 7 – Craft Sale, 8 a.m. to noon .. pies needed
Feb. 13 – Cancer Tea, 10:30 a.m., $5 pp, Dianna Bruce chairs
Feb. 17 – Farewell for Brock & Adrienne Laing, 3 p.m.
Feb. 21 – Old West Party, more info on this later
March 6 – Iowa Potluck, noon, Hovers chair
Would you like samples of Bar-B-Cuties Restaurant? Brock Laing offered to set up a time for them to bring food for tasting. More later ..

Dave Johnson #93 is working on park directories. If you have changes from last year’s info, he needs this by Jan. 25. New directories will be on sale Feb. 4.

Activity Calendars available per Judi DeKoning. If supply is depleted, office will print one for you. Give any changes to Judi, #67.

Notify editor (written notes appreciated) Mary Lou Benson, Lot #103, 956-532-9665, of items you wish to be printed in weekly newsletter. Also appreciate being notified of changes in chairman, times of activities, etc.

Lucy Johnson thanked the pie bakers & all who came to last week’s Flea Market.

Marge Rexroad is needing quilters Tuesdays, if just for tying. All are welcome to come help! She also has some blocks that need to be embroidered, pick up from Marge.

Park Breakfast is at Fiesta Tex-Mex Thursdays, 8 a.m.

Wednesday Social Hours continue .. all invited to join in. Bring snacks & choice of beverage.

Hand & Foot has changed from 7 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Wed. & is played in the Dart room behind stage.

Senior Yoga resumes today after morning meeting, & is held Tuesday & Thursday at 10 a.m. with Janie Maxwell.

John Norris is working on a Picture Directory which would help the new people in our park. He will create an electronic directory to put names & faces together. This will be a snap shot type photo only, no sales of pictures. It will include a minimum of name with photo & add’l info such as home address, phone numbers, emails will be included if you like. Pictures will be taken starting this week on Tuesday, Jan. 15, 12:30 to 4:30 in big hall. No appointments, just come & go.

Golden Age Olympics sponsored by McAllen Parks & Rec has replaced the Senior Olympics our park took part in. This is open to anyone in the Rio Valley area & you can enter individually or as part of a park team. Entry fee is $7 for 1st event, $5 for each add’l event entered. A list & sign up sheet is in main hall. Park management will provide a park tee shirt for each person entering. Included are many card games, sporting games, baking, other events. For more info, contact John Norris #246.

Ladies’ Salad Luncheon is scheduled Wed., Jan. 16, with “The 3 J's” .. Janean Geer, Judy Greenlee, Judy Shivley .. chairing. It begins at noon & all should bring a salad. Cost is $1 pp. Theme is Snow White & 7 Dwarfs. See sign up sheet on back board in Friendship Hall.

Rio Grande Wellness Blood Draws will be 6:30 a.m. on Jan. 18. Pay with cash or check, no debit/credit cards. You must fast for 12 hours prior to testing.

Tickets at $6 pp (table of 8/$48) are going fast for the 9th annual Sock Hop! It is scheduled for Jan. 24. Get tickets at Barnhart's Lot #276, Ken's office or Monday meetings. Kathy Cochran filled in this morning in Ken's absence. Doors open 5:15 p.m. & not sooner, kitchen opens 5:30. Hot dogs will be sold 25 cents each, 10 cent sodas & chips. Bring small change, no large bills, for your purchases. Decorate your table, win a prize. Decorate tables beginning at noon on Thursday. Games & great entertainment by Fred Goldsberry begin at 6 p.m.

Get your $2 pp tickets for Bean Feed which will be held Jan. 30, 4:30 p.m. Dick & Max Topel chair.

Craft Sale Chair Mary Norby says all tables are sold for the Feb. 7 sale. There will be a sign up sheet for pies.

You may purchase tickets for the Cancer Tea to be held ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​February 13. This year's theme is “Lots of Love”. Chair is Dianna Bruce. Time is 10:30 a.m. with tickets $5 pp. Bring tea cup & saucer for exchange.

According to Joyce Amos, a “FAREWELL PARTY will be held for Brock & Adrienne Laing on Feb. 17, 3 p.m. in Friendship Hall. Everyone is urged to attend as we will surely miss this couple next season!

Pat Printy announced she will chair ROPA Style Show with date of March 14, 1 p.m. If you have anything you would like to model from ROPA, thrift store, Good Will, wherever, see sign up sheets.
“Apparently, it’s only appropriate to say ‘Look at you! .. You got so big!’ to children. Adults tend to get offended.”

GAME RESULTS - Place scores, winner names, complete info on dates & name of game in plastic container back of Friendship Hall. WRITE LEGIBLY!

BOWLING – Jan. 11 –
Women’s High Game & Series – Venita Lingle 156 & 434
BRIDGE – Jan. 8
1st – Sue Shaffer 3450 2nd – Dick Gibson 2140
Jan. 10 –
1st – Catherine Donovan Score? 2nd – Maud Fisher Score?
Jan. 12 –
1st – Ed Hover 3150` 2nd – Dolores Mason 2490
CANASTA – Table of 4 –
Jan. 7 - Janean Geer, Patty Lamp 29870
Jan. 9 – Donna Gabbert, Nancy Argo 30240
Jan. 11 – Jewel Kruckman, Judy Greenlee 22865
Table of 6 – Jan. 9 -
Grace Thornton, Jean Stamp. Janean Geer 37495
Jan. 11 –
Marge Rexroad, Donna Gabbert, Fran Hryniw 34925
CRIBBAGE – Jan. 9 - 1st – Millie Ricke 677
2nd – David Clement 677 3rd – Grace Thornton 650
DOMINOS – Mexican Train – Jan. 8 – Marge Reishus, Dottie Sanders, Dick Topel, Catherine Donovan, Darlene Bryant, Michael Mattingly, Donna Gabbert, Ron Baker, Mary Lou Sirovy, Fran Hryniw, Janel Baker, Virgil; Tyler, Ann Johnson Jan. 13 – Mary Lou Sirovy, Grace Thornton, Dottie Sanders, Dick Topel, Vic Greenlee, Janie Maxwell, Virgil Tyler, Ann Johnson, Fran Hryniw, Virginia Baker, Mary Christianson, Janel Baker
DUMMY RUMMY – Jan. 12 –
1st – Judy Greenlee 215 2nd – Venita Lingle 221
3rd – Denny Argo 244` 4th – Robert Lingle 252
EUCHRE – Date?
1st – Allen Swanson 47 2nd – Jewel Kruckman 42
GOLF – Tierra Santa –
Dec. 20-Low Gross-Mark Fisher76 Low Net -Neil Kommer 72
Jan. 4-Low Gross-Mark Fisher 76 Low Net - -Vic Greenlee 73
Jan. 7-Low Gross-Mark Fisher 79 Low Net - -Neil Kommer 77
Palmview –
Jan. 8 Low Gross-Mark Fisher 77 LowNet -- Vic Greenlee 69
PINOCHLE – Single Deck – Jan. 12 –
1st – Raymond Davis 440 2nd – Sharon Bussinger 437
SHUFFLING – Jan. 8 – Dave Johnson, Robert Lingle, Ross McAuley, Dick Topel, Ron Henderson, Jim Moeller Jan. 11 – Jim Moeller, Ross McAuley, Dave Johnson, Dick Topel
TEXAS HOLD'EM POKER – Jan. 12 – 1st – Harriet Stromer
2nd – Jim Rader 3rd – Lynn Stamp
TIC – Jan. 9 – No scores were written down!
1st – April Walling 2nd – Patty Lamp
3rd – Gene Valley 4th – Dana Daves
Editors note .. REMEMBER WHEN ??

Telephones .. First one my family had was a party line phones…then dial desk phones. And now cell phones? First we had flip phones, then Smart phones smarter than us? Now I have an I phone. We seniors have come a long way!!

On to computers .. I remember when beging working at Farm Bureau keeping books with a pencil & handwritten ledger in 1972, typing the weekly Spokesman page on an electric typewriter…. I thought what a magical machine that was. AAAH…an even more magical machine when I had to do all this on a computer!! That was the beginning of a headache.

Yesterday…..after church, golf & ice cream…we made a trip over to our friendly tech guy at Best Buy better known to Tom & me as The Geek Squad. We took our somewhat antique computer to him .. he worked diligently (?) and was successful in SELLING US A NEW COMPUTER!

Thus .. your newsletter is LATE .. and I thank my park guru computer friend Judi DeKoning for letting me use hers. I’m picking up my brand NeW model later today.

SHOULD WE SENIORS REALLY BE ALLOWED TO EVEN HAVE CELL PHONES AND COMPUTERS? I AM HOPING Tom & Ken don’t decide they now need a new boat for fishing !!!

That’s All Folks – Til Next Time !!

Jan.7th

RVE CLUB MEETING – Chair John Geer called meeting to order. We recited “Pledge to the Flag” & sang “God Bless America”. Meeting closed by singing club song, ”We Love Our Valley Home”.

Accompanist – Jan Delashmit

Invocation – Mark Probst – “Precious Lord Take My Hand”

Secretary Report – Maxine Topel

Treasurer Report – Sandy Novak

MANAGEMENT REPORT: Manager Craig Daves talked about recent break-ins reminding us to lock our homes. Rear gate that was damaged will be replaced with a stronger one. Golf cart was recovered. A ring & key have been found, if yours, check at office. Two metal plates are being placed across entrance to front of office & in golf cart parking area to prevent falls. Needing stamps? Office has 1st class stamps. R.J.Brodal at #275 mentioned possibility of residents patroling during the night. He volunteered to chair this. Website for park is riovalleyestates.com

Treasurer Sandy Novak's gave her report. It was approved.

Properties chair Ron Zoeller reported committee is looking into cleaning of chairs, may replace instead. He said residents should wash and drain dishes, not leave in kitchen sink. Heater in card room will be repaired today. If you have recycling items, he's going Tuesday (tomorrow) this week. Committee is researching blinds for kitchen; and rope light replacement in Friendship Hall, evaluating per Brock's ideas. Board Members -- Properties – Ron Zoeller, Mike Reiff, Larry Pavlis; Finance – Sandy Novak, Gordon Amos, Jim Moeller.

Brock Laing said 120 attended entertainment Friday night. Come enjoy The Punches Family Jan. 11, $6 pp. This is a good family show with Mom, Dad, 2 daughters performing. Brock is “soliciting”, editor thinks! He advertised D-9 as being for sale, you may pay in Canadian dollars!

Come for potluck 5 p.m. prior to Friday entertainment with Mary Nelson & Red Tyler chairing. Good crowd last week!

What a turnout for Sunday afternoon ice cream yesterday. Laings & their committee invite all to come next Sunday!

Monday Night Dances begin tonight with Country Roland Jr., $6 pp .. 7-9:30 p.m. Craig & Dana Daves chair. Residents should stay away from hall noon to 3 p.m. for crew to set up  floor cleaning. If you don't know, dances are BYOB.

Free Thursday night movies will begin January 17.

Helen Curtis asks you to call 603-674-3869, when you know of someone needing card due to illness/death in family. Sam is filling in this week &; next. Cards to sign are in office area. If you call Helen, leave message & name. She will return calls if she knows who called. Cards this week up for Ken Barnhart, hospitalization, now home; Tom Cassidy, encouragement; Ed Marcukaitis, pacemarker implanted. Stacey Johnson was at ER last night, now a patient; Catherine Donovan in hospital. Cards will be put up for both. Former resident Marilyn Babbitt (#104) is at retirement home with health issues. If you wish to send card, her address is Brookdale Retirement Center, 2562 Pierce St., Sioux City, IA 51104.

Donna Gabbert keeps us informed with a blog. Find it at www.donnasramblingsatrve.blogspot.com ..

Club website by Judi DeKoning is RVEWTC.com .. for “members only”, the password is riovalley.



Upcoming Events:

Jan. 7 – Dance to Country Roland, 7-9:30 p.m.

Jan. 9 – Park Pizza Party, Peter Piper Pizza, 11:30 a.m.

Jan. 11 – Flea Market, 8 a.m. - noon .. pies needed

Jan. 16 – Ladies Salad Luncheon, noon

Jan. 18 – Wellness Screening, Blood Draw, 6:30 a.m.

Jan. 24 – Sock Hop, doors open 5:15, kitchen opens 5:30 p.m.

Feb. 7 – Craft Sale, 8 a.m. to noon .. pies needed

Feb. 13 – Cancer Tea, Dianna Bruce chairs – time?

Feb. 18 – Farewell for Brock & Adrienne Laing, 3 p.m.

Feb. 21 – Old West Party, more info on this later



Editor says “THANK YOU” to Donna Gabbert who

stepped up to do newsletters before Bensons arrived....

and to Judi DeKoning for her help!!

That's the great thing about Rio Valley Estates. If you need a helping hand whether it be to help on a committee, serve on the board, whatever, you can count on folks here to help.

Don't be afraid to volunteer!

TY to Phyllis Branstetter/George Morgan who agreed to serve the donuts/coffee on Mondays. Anyone wishing to donate donuts should let chair John Geer know.

Chair John Geer asked who were the volunteers who said they would review park rules. Talk to John if it's YOU. John read rules that stated “no solicitation” at club meetings, only concerning health & wellness. He will be looking into someone who wants to talk about hearing aids, will let us know about this next Monday meeting.

A question from Betty Brodal #275 if they could bring brochure on health/wellness to flea market. They may check with chair Lucy Johnson at #93.

Dave Johnson #93 has park directories, $1.50 each.

Activity Calendars available per Judi DeKoning. If supply is depleted, office will print one for you. Give any changes to Judi.

Notify editor (written notes appreciated) Mary Lou Benson, Lot #103, 956-532-9665, of items you wish to be printed in weekly newsletter. Also appreciate being notified of changes in chairman, times of activities, etc.

Judy Shively asked how many are interested in playing Hand & Foot as she was wondering if this could be scheduled on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons. No interest so remains on Wed. evenings. Needing players!

Park Breakfast is at Fiesta Tex-Mex Thursdays, 8 a.m.

Wednesday Social Hours continue .. all invited to join in. Bring snacks & choice of beverage.

No Bean Bags this afternoon, but this begins Wed.

Would you be willing to give invocation at a Monday meeting? If so, contact Chair John Geer.

Dean Ricke invites residents to the Park Pizza Party which is Wed., Jan. 9, 11:30 a.m. at Peter Piper Pizza. Wear your name tags, receive free pop & ice cream. If you need a Peter Piper mug, see Dean at #72. Rickes & Goodwins chair.

Flea Market will be held 8-noon on Friday, Jan. 11. See Lucy Johnson at #93 if you wish a table .. sign up to bring a pie. You may set up your table on Thursday between 4 & 6 p.m. Be sure to cover your tables.

Ladies Salad Luncheon is scheduled Wed., Jan. 16, with “The 3 J's” .. Janean Geer, Judy Greenlee, Judy Shivley .. chairing. It begins at noon & all should bring a salad. Theme is Snow White & 7 Dwarfs. See sign up sheet on back board in Friendship Hall.

Rio Grande Wellness Blood Draws will be 6:30 a.m. on Jan. 18. Pay with cash or check, no debit/credit cards. You must fast for 12 hours prior to testing.

Tickets at $6 pp (table of 8/$48) are going fast for the 9th annual Sock Hop! It is scheduled for Jan. 24. Get tickets at Barnhart's Lot #276, Ken's office or Monday meetings. Ken's “sister from another mother” Kathy Cochran filled in this morning in Ken's absence. Doors open 5 p.m. & not sooner, kitchen opens 5:30. Hot dogs will be sold 25 cents each, 10 cent sodas & chips. Bring small change, no large bills, for your purchases. Decorate your table, win a prize. Decorate tables beginning at noon on Thursday. Games & great entertainment by Fred Goldsberry.

Craft Sale Chair Mary Norby says only 4 tables remain for the Feb. 7 sale. Let her know if you want one, must be homemade items. She's at Lot #179, her phone # is 952-237-9717. There will be a sign up sheet for pie donations.

Beginning today you may purchase tickets for the Cancer Tea to be held ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​February 13. This year's theme is “Lots of Love”. Chair is Dianna Bruce. Editor didn't catch time & cost of tea.

According to Joyce Amos, a “farewell party” will be held for Brock & Adrienne Laing on Feb. 17, 3 p.m. in Friendship Hall. Everyone is urged to attend as we will surely miss this couple next season!

Thanks to Marylyn Mason & Lucy Johnson who have agreed to serve as Friday Entertainment chairs next season. They'll be attending showcases with Laings soon.

Pat Printy announced she will chair ROPA Style Show with date of March 14, 1 p.m. If you have anything you would like to model from ROPA, thrift store, Good Will, wherever, see sign up sheets.

Welcome chair is Sharon Sprague. She delivers a basket to new folks in our park.



Some quotes from MAXINE cartoons:

On Lawn Care .. “The key to a nice looking lawn is a good mower. I recommend one who is muscular & shirtless.”

On Technology .. “My idea of rebooting is kicking somebody in the butt twice.”

On Aging .. “Take each birthday with a grain of salt. This works much better if the salt accompanies a Margarita.”

“Do you realize that in about 40 years, we'll have millions of old ladies running around with tattoos & pierced navels?”

(Not that's scary!)

“After a certain age, if you don't wake up aching somewhere .. You may be dead.”



GAME RESULTS - Place scores, winner names, complete info on dates & name of game in plastic container back of Friendship Hall. WRITE LEGIBLY!

BOWLING – Jan. 4 – Pins 'n' Cues

Women's High Game/Series – Venita Lingle 130/381

BRIDGE – Jan. 1 - 1st – Dick Gibson 4,690

2nd – Sue Shaffer 4,040

Jan. 3 - 1st – Dolores Mason 2,480

2nd – Catherine Donovan 2,280

Jan. 5 – 1st – Catherine Donovan 3,210

2nd – Maud Fisher 2,610

CANASTA – Table of 4 –

Dec. 31 – Janean Geer, Mary Jean Steward 30,725

Jan. 2 – Nancy Argo, Fran Hryniw Score?

Jan. 4- Jean Stamp, Patty Lamp 24,525

Table of 6 – Jan. 2 -

Marge Rexroad, Jewel Kruckman, Grace Thornton 38,515

CRIBBAGE – Jan. 2 -

1st – Verna Fischer 702 2nd – Jewel Kruckman 697

3rd (tie) – Grace Thornton & Dean Ricke 678

DOMINOS – Mexican Train – Jan. 1 – Dick Topel, Ken Borah, Virginia Baker, Dan Bryant, Catherine Donovan, Ron Baker

Jan. 6 – Mary Lou Sirovy, Janel Baker, Allen Swanson, Patty Lamp, Virginia Baker, Mary Lou Benson, Ann Johnson, Diane Branstetter, Adrienne Laing

DUMMY RUMMY – Jan. 6 -

1st – Venita Lingle 211 2nd– Arwin VanWyk 218

3rd – Tom Benson 220 4th – Jim Goodwin 226

EUCHRE –

GOLF – Jan. 4 – Executive Course

Men's Low – Henry Hryniw 30

Tie for 2nd – Virgil White, Jim Moeller 37

PINOCHLE – Single Deck – Jan. 5 -

1st – Ed Hover 452 2nd – Margaret Davis 396

TEXAS HOLD'EM POKER – Dec. 31 -

1st – David Clement 2nd – Arwin VanWyk

Jan. 5 - 1st – David Clement

2nd – June Clement 3rd – Lynn Stamp

TIC – Jan. 2 -

1st – Ron Zoeller 134 2nd – Paul Sprague 146

3rd – Nancy Argo 148 4th – Patty Lamp 168



How can you tell if you're in TX .. or CLOSE?!!

Menard's withdrawal !!

No more Braum's ice cream, now it's DQ, the TX stop sign ...

No more Buc-ees, you passed Slovacheks already ..

Fireworks stand at EVERY corner, Sonic every other corner ..

Cerveza & Tequila .. Duty-free & Progreso, Mexico ..

Oil wells, wind generators .. ROPA & Don-Wes ..

What-A-Burger, H.E.B. and Valero gas ..

Lots of BBQ .. Potlucks, Patio & Craft Sales, Happy Hours ..

SPI, Sand Castles and Turtle Rescues ..

TIC, Dummy Rummy, Dominoes, Pinochle, TX Hold-um, Entertainments, Dances, Mariachi .. you name it !!

BEST OF ALL YOU FIND FOLKS WHO KNOW HOW TO BE RETIRED, WHO HUG & GREET YOU WARMLY .. ESPECIALLY AT RVE .. THEY ARE LIKE FAMILY!

We are GLAD to be HOME !!


HAPPY NEW YEAR !!
Wishing you all:
12 Months of Happiness,
52 Weeks of Fun,
365 Days of Good Health,
8,760 Hours of LOVE,
525,600 Minutes of Blessings &
3,153,000 Seconds of Joy.