Newsletter 11/29

Coming up this week is beautiful weather, cool mornings but 70's and 80 for highs in the afternoon.

RVE CLUB MEETING – Chair Sharon Sprague 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 – Cathy Probst

Invocation – Mark Probst .. “How big is God? .. reading from Psalm 23 .. & poem “Footprints in the Sand”

Secretary Report – Dana Daves

Treasurer Report – Sandy Olson

Chairperson Sharon announced additional duties to those that appear in park directory. These include .. open with prayer or choose someone to do this, appoint someone to serve coffee/donuts at Monday meeting, and appoint nominating & auditing committees.

MANAGEMENT REPORT .. No one was present to give a report. Manager Dan O’Dell is having complete shoulder replacement surgery today. Prayers for a quick recovery. Website for park is riovalleyestates.com

Board Members -- Properties – George Morgan, Lynn Stamp, Mark Probst; Finance – Vicki Davis, Gordon Amos, Sandy Olson. If you have issues you’d like to present or discuss, you may contact any board member. They sit in a group toward the right front of Friendship Hall prior to Monday meeting.

Dana Daves gave Secretary report & it was approved.

Treasurer Sandy Olson gave report & it was accepted.

Mark Probst gave Properties report. A new nativity has been purchased by Lynn & will be put up soon. Patio Sale sign is going up today. Mark is taking recycling tomorrow & Paul Delashmit will take if pickup gets too full.

Here’s a good reason to wear your RVE name tags to all events. “If you are with me & someone comes up to us & starts talking & I don’t introduce you ..it’s because I don’t remember their name. Happens to Tom & me often. So please feel free to be a cool person & introduce yourself so I can then hear their name & pretend like I knew it the whole time!” – mlb

If you don’t have an RVE name tag, check with Donna Gabbert who makes these.

Donna Gabbert puts cards in office area for your signature. If you know of someone needing card due to illness or death in family, call her at 956-968-6684. Cards this week .. Janice Philipp, former resident, is undergoing chemotherapy in Minnesota. Need Jan’s address? Give editor a call. It has been reported resident Gary Hejlik has passed away this past week.

Craig Daves, dance co-chair, reports all bands booked have agreed to come. First dance is Jan. 3. Admission is $7 pp

Marylyn Mason, Friday entertainment co-chair, said another act has cancelled. She & co-chair Lucy Johnson will be adding an act to replace the cancellation. The kids from Cleckler Elementary School are coming to entertain us with Christmas music Dec. 17, 6:00-8:30 p.m. Admission of $5 pp will go back to them.

Some folks, even those who are vaccinated, may be concerned about spread of Covid. Feel free to wear mask to any event/activity.

PLEASE SUPPORT ALL PARK ACTIVITIES.

Thanks to Patty Lamp & Phyllis Branstetter who served coffee & donuts prior to today’s meeting. There is a sign up sheet if you wish to provide in honor of special occasion. If no one signs up, club will pay. Bring donuts by 8:15 a.m.

Reach out to your neighbors. Tell them to attend Monday morning meetings. Make them feel welcome!

We will elect a new club chair & vice chair Dec. 13 for the calendar year (January through December). If you nominate someone, it is a good idea to check with them first as to whether they are willing to serve.

For residents’ information, code to unlock all doors is 7157. Last one out locks up.

Activity Calendars are posted on back bulletin board in Friendship Hall by Judi DeKoning.

Editor Mary Lou Benson sends information to news media to announce activities that are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC .. such as dances, patio & craft sales, flea markets, entertainment, etc. Get info to her 3 weeks before event. WRITTEN notes are helpful.

What a great meal & turnout we had for Thanksgiving Dinner! “Thanksgiving at RVE turned out to be more special than I could have imagined. At the beginning of our dinner, I shared my thought for the day was for us all to consider how we are given many gifts from The Lord & how we might consider sharing our gifts with others around us. Just about everyone showed me they indeed share their gifts. Thanks to all who helped.” – Chair Pam Brustkern You can read a complete printing of Pam’s thank you on our club’s Facebook page….RVE Winter Texans.

All said Thanksgiving Dinner was great .. and we thank Pam, Ken, Sue & Tim for organizing.

Dave Johnson at Lot #93 needs your name & phone numbers for the next park directory.

Wednesday Happy Hour is in card room through December. Bring snacks & your own beverage, 4 p.m.

Bean Bags begins Tuesday & Wednesday, 1 p.m. outside Friendship Hall.

Mark Wieners announces Euchre will begin next Tuesday, Dec. 7.

Texas Hold’em Poker has been removed from Tuesday activities. It is still held on Fridays at 1 p.m.

Park Patio Sale will be held outside units on Friday, Dec. 3, 8 a.m. to noon. This is your chance to make big $$$ .. so you can spend $$$ on other items you can’t live without. If you wish to use a table from our hall, please sign up on back bulletin board.

Tickets are being sold at Monday meetings for Meat Loaf Dinner on Dec. 9, 4:30 social hour & eat at 5. This replaces Lasagna Dinner we had previously. Judi DeKoning said you may purchase entire table to seat 8-10 people if you wish….cost is $10 pp. Kathy Cochran tells us there might be entertainment at the party!

Marylyn Mason announced a Golf Cart Parade is planned on Dec. 23, 5:30 p.m. Following parade, an old-fashioned Christmas will be held in Friendship Hall with Jan Delashmit playing piano & Marge Reishus leading in song. There is a sign up sheet for attendance & residents to bring cookies. We’ll have a “white elephant” exchange which though not mandatory, should be a lot of fun. Bring $5 (or so?) gift. You get a ticket for drawing of a gift. After all names have been drawn, they will draw one more time & you can take gift from someone else. Gifts may be new or regifted items 😊

There are activities across the Valley all season .. but especially at Christmastime. One is the Hidalgo Festival of Lights. This is the 30th year this has been held. It is held Dec. 1 through Jan. 2. There are live performances & train tours…or you can drive through to see over 500 lighted displays. It’s worth the drive over to Hidalgo.

South Padre Island’s lights are beautiful. Thru Jan. 16, enjoy the Holiday Light Show on display 6 to 9 p.m. at the SPI Convention Centre. You can watch from the comfort of your vehicle. The city’s 32nd annual Street Parade will be held Friday, Dec. 3, beginning at 6 p.m. Another popular holiday-themed event is the Island’s 33rd annual Boat Parade on Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. You will see boats of all sizes & there are multiple viewing areas throughout the route. Judging happens at Jim’s Pier. There are alternate dates for the parades in case of bad weather.

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

BEAN BAG –

BOWLING – Pins & Cues

CANASTA – Table of 3 –

Nov. 23 – Linda Palermo 10695

Nov. 24 – Beverly Yancey, Fran Hryniw 38194

CRIBBAGE –

DOMINOS – Mexican Train – Nov. 21 – Ann Johnson, Nancy Gonnerman, Darlene Bryant Nov. 23 -Ann Johnson, Jean Stamp, Marge Reishus, Janel Baker Nov. 28 – Janel Baker, Nancy Gonnerman, Maud Fisher

DUMMY RUMMY – Nov. 27 –

1st – Jean Stamp 232 2nd – Sharon Sprague 245

3rd – Del Telfor 263 4th – Al Lenius 285

EUCHRE -

GOLF – Executive –

PINOCHLE – Single Deck –

SHUFFLING

TEXAS HOLD'EM POKER

TIC – Nov. 24 –

1st – Lynn Stamp 108 2nd – Beverly Yancey 181

3rd – Nancy Argo 196 4th – Craig Daves 199

Well, I didn’t know this ..some facts about the 1500s ..

Most people got married in June because they took their yearly bath in May & they still smelled pretty good by June. Since they were starting to smell not so good, brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odor.

Baths consisted of a big tub filled with hot water. The man of the house had the privilege of the nice clean water, then the other sons & men, then the women & finally the children. Last the babies & by then the water was so dirty you could actually lose someone in it. Hence the saying, “Don’t throw the baby out with the bath water!”

Houses had thatched roofs, thick straw piled high with no wood underneath. It was the only place for animals to get warm, so all the cats & other small animals (mice, bugs) lived in the roof. When it rained it became slippery & sometimes the animals would slip & fall off the roof. Hence the saying “It’s raining cats & dogs!” (bet you saw that one coming!)

There was nothing to stop things from falling into the house. This posed a problem in the bedroom where bugs & other droppings could mess up your nice clean bed. Hence, a bed with big posts & a sheet hung over the top afforded protection. That’s how canopy beds came into existence.

The floor was dirt. Only the wealthy had something other than dirt. Hence the saying, “dirt poor”. The wealthy had slate floors that would get slippery in the winter when wet, so they spread thresh (straw) on floor to help keep their footing. As the winter wore on, they added more thresh until when you opened the door, it would all start slipping outside. A piece of wood was placed in the entrance-way .. hence, “a thresh hold”.

--to be continued another time (if you are lucky/unlucky)--

 

RVE CLUB MEETING – Chair Sharon Sprague 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 – Cathy ProbstInvocation – 

Paul Delashmit “Be thankful all the time”, reading from Psalms followed by prayer

Secretary Report – Dana Daves

Treasurer Report – Sandy Olson

Welcome back to everyone who just arrived this week!

MANAGEMENT REPORT .. None today

Website for park is riovalleyestates.com

Dana Daves gave Secretary report & it was approved.

Treasurer Sandy Olson gave report & it was accepted.

Mark Probst gave Properties report. TV in back room will remain as it is still being used. There is a computer monitor. Does someone still use that? The stool for kitchen was purchased, also tape for rug to avoid tripping. Mark said management no longer providesThanksgiving turkeys for park employees. We decided to provide one for each of them. Mark’s truck is available if someone will volunteer to haul recyclables while he is gone in Dec. Be careful as tailgate of truck is heavy.

Wear your RVE name tags. This will help you meet new residents & remember their names! If you do not know them, they probably don’t know you. Make newcomers welcome!

Donna Gabbert puts cards in office area for your signature. If you know of someone needing card due to illness or death in family, call her at 956-968-6684. No cards out this week.

Craig Daves, dance co-chair, reports all bands booked have agreed to come .. with first dance on Jan. 3. Admission this season is $7 pp. Vic has been hired again to clean floor. He will be cleaning this afternoon so help was needed to get Friendship Hall as empty as possible. A number of residents stayed after meeting to stack chairs & move tables. TY!

Marylyn Mason, Friday entertainment co-chair, said the kids from Cleckler Elementary School are coming to entertain us with Christmas music on Dec. 17, 6:00-8:30 p.m. Admission of $5 pp will go back to them.

Dana and Marylyn said they understand some folks, even those who are vaccinated, may be concerned about spread of Covid. They cannot ask if you’re vaccinated but if you are still concerned feel free to wear mask.

For interested dancers, our sister park Ranchero Village is holding a dance at their park Sat., Nov. 27, 7-10 p.m. Texas Turn-Around is playing. Our park is invited to join them.

PLEASE SUPPORT ALL PARK ACTIVITIES.

Thanks to Patty Lamp & Phyllis Branstetter who served coffee & donuts prior to today’s meeting. There is a sign up sheet if you wish to provide in honor of special occasion. If no one signs up, club will pay. Bring donuts by 8:15 a.m.

Donna Gabbert keeps us informed with a blog. Find it at www.donnasramblingsatrve.blogspot.com Her email is bodogabby@aol.com.

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

TALK TO YOUR NEIGHBORS ABOUT ATTENDING MONDAY MEETINGS. IT’S THE BEST WAY TO BE AWARE OF WHAT IS GOING ON…PLUS GET FREE COFFEE/DONUT TO START YOUR WEEK!

Discussion was heard about whether to elect Club Chair & Vice Chair for entire calendar year .. Jan. through Dec. Secretary is selected by Chairperson. Chair Sharon Sprague read proposed bylaw change. This was approved. We will elect on second Monday of December each year …falls on Dec. 13 this season. If you intend to nominate someone, it is a good idea if you check with them first as to whether they are willing to serve.

Judy DeKoning --“The Hot Dog committee has been thanked but I want to shout a HUGE TY to all who attended Wed. Happy Hr. Hot Dogs. You supported the RVE Club as we move ahead after lost year. We were blown away at the success of the 50-50 which was a late addition. THANK YOU ALL!! and, thanks to the phenomenal cooks we have in our park!”

We’ll return to the card room for Nov. 24th Happy Hour as hall will be decorated for Thanksgiving. Bring snacks & your own drinks.

It was announced Saturday morning Dummy Rummy tournaments is a club activity .. but morning Dummy Rummy is not….thus not listed on calendar, Join in Dummy Rummy games about 8:30 each morning weekday, if you wish.

For residents’ information, code to unlock all doors is 7157. Last one out locks up.

Activity Calendars are posted by Judi DeKoning. Changes may be given to Judi.

After so many things were cancelled during the pandemic, activities are picking up for this season. We’re glad to be back to near normal again. Let’s have a fun season!!!

Dave Johnson at Lot #93 needs your name & phone numbers for the next park directory.

We hired Connie & Gloria to clean in kitchen. Others living in park helped them. Gloria is coming back tomorrow (Tuesday) & needing help. 8 a.m. A special thank you to Gordon & Joyce who spent considerable time washing windows & curtains in big hall.

Charity Quilting in the sewing room will start this Tuesday, 9 a.m. All are welcome .. you don’t have to be a quilter .. if you can tie a knot, come help!!

Bingo begins this Saturday, chaired by Catherine Gibbs. Cards are 50 cents each. Please don’t bring bills over $5. Henry says he’ll be ready at 7 p.m.

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

BEAN BAG –

BOWLING – Pins & Cues

CANASTA – Table of 6 – Kathryn Ratliff, Pam Brustkern, Fran Hryniw 41000

CRIBBAGE –

DOMINOS – Mexican Train – Nov. 16 – Nancy Gonnerman, Maud Fisher, Marge Reishus

DUMMY RUMMY – Nov. 20 –

1st – Arwin VanWyk 227 2nd – Beverly Yancey 243

3rd – Sharon Sprague 267 4th – Del Telfor 278

EUCHRE -

GOLF – Executive –

PINOCHLE – Single Deck –

SHUFFLING – Nov. 19 – Dave Johnson Uber Larry 😊

TEXAS HOLD'EM POKER – Nov. 19 -

1st – Nancy Argo 2nd – Lynn Stamp 3rd – John Quail

TIC – Nov. 17 –

1st – Nancy Argo 142 2nd – Darlene Ales 156

3rd – Kathryn Ratliff 172 4th – Clarence Moore 177

Nov. 15th

 RVE CLUB MEETING – Chair Sharon Sprague 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 – Cathy Probst

Invocation – Sandy Novak gave us reason to think when she spoke about a “homeless man in church” .. followed by prayer

Secretary Report – Dana Daves

Treasurer Report – Sandy Olson

Welcome back to everyone who just arrived this week!

MANAGEMENT REPORT .. there was none today.

Website for park is riovalleyestates.com

Board Members -- Properties – George Morgan, Lynn Stamp, Mark Probst; Finance – Vicki Davis, Gordon Amos, Sandy Olson. If you have issues you’d like to present or discuss, you may contact any board member. They sit in a group toward the right front of Friendship Hall prior to Monday meeting.

Treasurer Sandy Olson gave report & it was accepted.

Mark Probst gave Properties report. As suggested last week, a member of committee was asked to speak to management about possibility of office area being left unlocked later in the day. George talked to them & this will not be done. A new stool for kitchen will be purchased, possibly one that was seen at Walmart. The big tube TV in back room is not being used so will be disposed of. Mark will not be available to haul recycling items in Dec. His truck is available at #54 if someone will volunteer. He requests NO plastic bags. Be careful as tailgate of truck is heavy.

Wear your RVE name tags. This will help you meet new residents & remember their names! If you do not know them, they probably don’t know you. Make newcomers welcome!

Donna Gabbert puts cards in office area for your signature. If you know of someone needing card due to illness or death in family, call her at 956-968-6684. Cards this week -- sympathy to family of former resident Mary Christensen as she has passed away; and “thinking of you” to John Norris as he & Dale left to go north for his medical treatment.

Dana Daves, dance co-chair, reports all bands booked have agreed to come .. with first dance on Jan. 3. Admission this season is $7 pp.

Marylyn Mason, Friday entertainment co-chair, said the kids from Cleckler Elementary School are coming to entertain us with Christmas music on Dec. 17, 6 p.m. Admission of $5 pp will go back to them. Volunteers are needed to help pack goodie bags for the children.

Dana and Marylyn said they understand some folks, even those who are vaccinated, may be concerned about spread of Covid. They cannot ask if you’re vaccinated but if you are still concerned feel free to wear mask.

Craig Daves is asking for volunteers following next Monday meeting .. to help move chairs for hall cleaning.

PLEASE SUPPORT ALL PARK ACTIVITIES.

Thanks to Patty Lamp & Phyllis Branstetter who served coffee & donuts prior to today’s meeting. There is a sign up sheet if you wish to provide in honor of special occasion. If no one signs up, club will pay. Bring donuts by 8:15 a.m.

Donna Gabbert keeps us informed with a blog. Find it at www.donnasramblingsatrve.blogspot.com Her email is bodogabby@aol.com.

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

Upcoming Events:

Nov. 17 - $2 HOT DOGS FOR HAPPY HOUR, 4 p.m.

Nov. 25 – Thanksgiving Dinner, Noon .. Sign up sheet on back board in Friendship Hall .. HELP NEEDED WITH CLEANUP AFTER THE MEAL.

Dec. 3 - Park Patio Sale, 8 – noon

Dec. 17 – Christmas Program by children from Cleckler Elementary School, 6 p.m.

TALK TO YOUR NEIGHBORS, NEW & OLD, ABOUT ATTENDING MONDAY MEETINGS. IT’S THE BEST WAY TO BE AWARE OF WHAT IS GOING ON. BRING ANY COMMENTS TO BE HEARD 😊 CHAT WITH OTHERS .. GET FREE COFFEE/DONUTS TO START YOUR WEEK!

It was noted entire kitchen & in particular bottom cabinets need a good cleaning (critters ☹) Question was asked if management is responsible for spraying for bugs. A motion was made to hire someone to come clean kitchen. Maria Marin was suggested & will be asked.

More discussion was heard about whether to elect club chair for 2 months or for entire season. Judy DeKoning had created what would be the change in club by-laws & chairperson Sharon Sprague read this to club members present. After suggestion to elect chair for entire CALENDAR YEAR beginning Jan. 1 was made, we decided to review this proposed change next week, then vote in December. Current chair will serve remainder of 2021. Back to the drawing board, Judy!!

For residents’ information, code to unlock all doors is 7157. Last one out locks up.

Dan Bryant has agreed to crush cans at back of Friendship Hall & is asking for volunteers to help.

Activity Calendars are posted by Judi DeKoning. Changes may be given to Judi DeKoning.

Editor Mary Lou Benson, Lot #103, sends info to news media to announce activities that are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, for instance dances, patio & craft sales, entertainment, flea markets, etc. Get this information to her at least 3 weeks before the event. Again, WRITTEN notes are helpful.

After so many things were cancelled during the pandemic, activities are picking up for this season. We’re glad to be back to near normal again. Let’s have a fun season!!!

Dave Johnson at Lot #93 needs your name & phone numbers for the next park directory.

Lynn Stamp chairs Friday afternoon (1-3 p.m.) Texas Hold-Em Poker. Texas Hold-Em is NOT held on Saturday evenings at the current time.

Don’t forget to sign up for Thanksgiving dinner on sheet in hall. Pam Brustkern & Ken Barnhart have volunteered to co-chair. Pam said if you know of someone not signed up, let them know. We’re looking for a good turnout! Sign up if you will be attending .. clean up help is especially needed, both on Wednesday after turkey carving & following the meal. Ken said bags are used in roasters so cleaning of those pans is relatively simple. Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, ice tea & water will be provided with remainder potluck. If you wish other beverage, you may bring that. Covered tables will be set up on Wednesday so you may put out your table service Thursday morning. Thanks to those who have volunteered to prepare potatoes, gravy & dressing.

Happy Hour on this Wednesday, Nov. 17, will be HOT DOGS, cost $2 pp. For this week only, get together is in Friendship Hall. Tickets will be sold at door & includes dogs, buns, onions, condiments. There is a sign up sheet in back to get count.

Park Patio Sale will be held outside units on Friday, Dec. 3, 8 a.m. to noon. This is your chance to make big $$$ .. so you can spend $$$ on other items you can’t live without.

The Kentucky Derby Party has been cancelled due to Norby’s health situation. It had been planned to be held January 20.

News editor Mary Lou Benson requests WRITTEN notes for any articles or items you wish printed in newsletter. There is a clip on the front of steps if no one is home. She’s at Lot #103, phone 956-532-9665. Some items may be edited for content & size.

Your printed newsletter is available mid-afternoon on Mondays Find it by the back door in card room.. A few may be found in office area.

We send God’s blessings & many prayers

to John & Dale Norris who headed up north Saturday. John will be seeing doctors there.

***********

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

BEAN BAG –

BOWLING – Pins & Cues

CANASTA – Table of 4 –

CRIBBAGE –

DOMINOS – Mexican Train – Nov. 14 – Donna Gabbert, Darlene Bryant

DUMMY RUMMY – Nov. 13 -

1st – Al Lenius 224 2nd – Sandy Lenius 255

3rd – Darlene Bryant 278 4th – Sharon Sprague 285

EUCHRE -

GOLF – Executive –

PINOCHLE – Single Deck –

SHUFFLING – Nov. 9 – Dave Johnson, Larry “Uber” Pierstorff Nov. 10 – Dave Johnson, Larry PierstorffTEXAS HOLD'EM POKER – Nov. 12 –

1st – Lynn Stamp 2nd – John Quail 3rd – Jean Stamp

TIC – Nov. 10 –

1st – Mark Probst 151 2nd – Sharon Sprague 166

3rd – Al Lenius 172 4th – John Norris 181

***********

What I read on Facebook this summer:

All are anonymous quotes as far as I could tell ..

but I may have learned some from my grandkids!

-- mlb

“Life humbles you as you age. You realize how much time you wasted on nonsense.”

“I have decided I no longer want to be an ADULT. If anybody needs me, I will be in my tree house .. coloring & eating FRUIT LOOPS.”

“The most beautiful things in life are not things. They are people & places, memories & pictures. They are feelings & moments, and big smiles, hugs & laughter.”

Have a great week everyone !!

Newsletter, Nov. 8th

 RVE CLUB MEETING – Chair Sharon Sprague 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 – Cathy Probst

Invocation – Pam Brustkern –

“God is the source of all our blessings”

Secretary Report – Dana Daves

Treasurer Report – Sandy Olson

Welcome back to everyone who just arrived this week!

MANAGEMENT REPORT: There was no report today. Website for park is riovalleyestates.com

Treasurer Sandy Olson gave report & it was accepted.

Mark Probst gave Properties report thanking John Norris & Dan Laurence for finding space under stage for chair storage. Do we need sprayer in south sink of kitchen? Mark said there are items including four wheelchairs, shower chair, commode, crutches, walkers behind stage & wondered if it’s necessary we keep all of them. We decided to keep only one of each item; the rest could be put on upcoming park patio sale. He announced he will not be available to haul recycling items during Dec.; said his truck is available at #54 if someone wishes to do this. He requests NO plastic bags & said be careful when you use HEAVY tailgate of truck.

Wear your RVE name tags. This will help you meet new residents & remember their names! If you do not know them, they probably don’t know you either. Make them feel welcome!

Donna Gabbert puts cards in office area for your signature. If you know of someone needing card due to illness or death in family, call her at 956-968-6684. No cards this week.

Dana Daves, dance co-chair, reports all bands booked have agreed to come .. with first dance on Jan. 3.

Marylyn Mason, Friday entertainment co-chair, said the kids from Cleckler Elementary School have agreed to come. Date may be changed due to scheduling. Volunteers are needed for candy bag packing.

Both Dana and Marylyn said they understand some folks, even those who are vaccinated, may still be concerned about spread of Covid. They cannot ask if you’re vaccinated .. but if you are concerned feel free to wear mask. Please come support park activities!

Craig Daves, dance co-chair, has checked with the fellow who has done floor cleaning in Friendship Hall in the past. He will do this at cost of $50 per event. We voted to have him clean floor before Thanksgiving dinner & early in Dec.

Sharon Sprague is known as our “popcorn lady” .. she’d like volunteers to help with this.

Thanks to Patty Lamp & Phyllis Branstetter who served coffee & donuts prior to meeting today. There is a sign up sheet if you wish to provide in honor of special occasion. If no one signs up, club will pay. Bring donuts by 8:15 a.m.

Donna Gabbert keeps us informed with a blog. Find it at www.donnasramblingsatrve.blogspot.com Her email is bodogabby@aol.com.

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

Upcoming Events: Nov. 25 – Thanksgiving Dinner

Dec. 3 - Park Patio Sale, 8 – noon

Discussion was heard about whether to elect club chair for 2 months .. or for entire season. Entire season would basically be 6 months Nov. through April. Would we also want term limits? It appeared most felt entire season with no term limits would work. Judy DeKoning will create what would be a change in by-laws, to be presented at next Monday meeting….then more discussion before we vote per by-law rules.

For residents’ information, code to unlock all doors is 7157. Last one out locks up.

Dan Bryant has agreed to crush cans .. but asking for volunteers to help him.

Dave Johnson & Jose Ponce have agreed to work with sound system at activities this season. We give a big thank you to Bill Hamlett for doing this in the past.

Activity Calendars are posted by Judi DeKoning. Names of chairmen are shown on front page of newsletter. Changes may be given to Judi DeKoning or Mary Lou Benson.

After so many things were cancelled during the pandemic, activities are picking up for this season. We’re glad to be back to near normal again. Let’s have a fun season!!!

Dave Johnson chairs Shuffling Tuesday, Wed., Friday, 8:30 a.m. New shufflers needed. It’s a great way to get acquainted. Anyone who has ideas for new games/activities should suggest them.

Dave Johnson at Lot #93 needs your name & phone numbers for the next park directory.

Don’t forget to sign up for Thanksgiving dinner on sheet in hall. Thanks to Pam Brustkern who has volunteered to chair Thanksgiving dinner. Co-chair is Ken Barnhart. Sign up if you will be attending .. so turkeys can be purchased. Turkey, dressing & mashed potatoes will be provided .. looking for a volunteer to make good gravy from the turkey drippings. Remainder of meal is potluck.

There will be regular Happy Hour this Wednesday & the day before Thanksgiving in card room, 4 p.m. Bring your own beverage & snacks to share.

Happy Hour on Nov. 17 will be HOT DOGS, cost $2 pp. For that Wed. only, get together is in Friendship Hall. Tickets will be sold at door & includes dogs, buns, onions, condiments. There is a sign up sheet in back to get count.

Park Patio Sale will be held outside units on Friday, Dec. 3, 8 a.m. to noon. This is your chance to make big $$$ .. so you can spend $$$ on other items you can’t live without.

The Kentucky Derby Party has been cancelled due to Norby’s health situation. It had been planned to be held January 20.

News editor Mary Lou Benson requests WRITTEN notes for any articles or items you wish printed in newsletter. There is a clip on the front of steps if no one is home. She’s at Lot #103, phone 956-532-9665. Keep in mind due to space .. some items may be edited for content & size.

Your printed newsletter (with any luck!!) is available mid-afternoon on Mondays Find it by the backdoor in card room..

***********

If a dog was the teacher you would learn stuff like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

When it’s in your best interest, practice obedience.

Let others know when they’ve invaded your territory.

Take naps. Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, lie on your back on the grass. On hot days, drink lots of water & lie under a shady tree.

When you’re happy, dance around & wag your entire body.

No matter how often you’re scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing & pout. Run right back & make friends.

Eat with gusto & enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you’re not.

Do not regret growing older. It is a privilege denied to many.

***********

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

BEAN BAG –

BOWLING – Pins & Cues

CANASTA – Table of 4 –

CRIBBAGE –

DOMINOS – Mexican Train –

DUMMY RUMMY – Nov. 6 -

1st – Kathryn Ratliff 288 2nd – Denny Argo 295

3rd – Mary Lou Benson 319 4th – Darlene Bryant 327

EUCHRE -

GOLF – Executive –

PINOCHLE – Single Deck –

SHUFFLING –

TEXAS HOLD'EM POKER –

TIC – Nov. 3 –

1st – Donna Gabbert 160 2nd – Dana Daves 173

3rd – Sandy Lenius 189 4th – Mark Probst 192

“In the blink of an eye, everything can change. So forgive often and love with all your heart. You may never know when you may not have that chance again.” -- Anonymous

Have a great week everyone !!

Newsletter

 RVE CLUB MEETING – Chair Person Sharon Sprague called the meeting to order at 9 o’clock. We recited “Pledge to the Flag” & sang “God Bless America”. Meeting closed by singing club song, ”We Love Our Valley Home”.

Accompanist – Cathy Probst

Invocation - Darlene Bryant

Secretary Report – Dana Daves

Treasurer Report – Sandy Olson

MANAGEMENT REPORT: Jan and Dan introduced the new Assistant Mgrs. Bil and Annie Perkins.

Mgr. Dan said their mission is to establish a safe, secure, comfortable, fun place for us! Also that Spectrum is being installed and hopefully by the first of the year we will have free internet and basic cable, and if you choose to upgrade you will pay extra for that.

Website for park is riovalleyestates.com

Board Members -- Properties – George Morgan, Lynn Stamp, Mark Probst; Finance – Vicki Davis, Gordon Amos, Sandy Olson. If you have issues you’d like to present or discuss, you may contact a board member. They sit in a group up toward the right front of Friendship Hall prior to Monday meetings.

Wear name tags. This will help us meet new residents .. and help us remember their names! Mgr. Jan said they will be ordering badges for people.

Donna Gabbert asks you to call 956-968-6684 when you know of someone needing card due to illness/death in family. Cards to sign are in office area. If you call Donna, leave message & name. She will return calls if she knows who called. Donna made 56 cards for folks this last year and a half

Donna Gabbert keeps us informed with a blog. Find it at www.donnasramblingsatrve.blogspot.com Her email is bodogabby@aol.com.

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

This is the FIRST park newsletter of the season. Editor is Donna Gabbert 956-968-6684, until Mary Lou returns, Mary Lou Benson, 956-532-9665. Please give her WRITTEN note of item you wish printed. Some may be edited for content/size. Give notes to Mary Lou at Monday morning meetings or you may deliver to her at Lot #103. There is a clip on the front of steps if no one is home.

If you wish something printed Valley-wide of an activity OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, give note to Mary Lou as well. Some news media (Winter Texan Times in particular) will only take items for winter Texan calendar from ONE person in the park. Mary Lou has done this for many years .. but if anyone else wishes to do this, jump right in, let Mary Lou know! 😊

New folks to the park, Pam Bruskern lot 3, from Iowa Harry & Deb Olshewski, D-9, from Canada, Harold & Shirley Mack, 157 from S.Dakota, Dan & Julie Laurance, 233, from Iowa

Miscellaneous Announcements

Some activities have begun Some include TIC tournaments on Wed. evening, Dummy Rummy tournaments on Sat. morning. Mexican Train, new time, 6:00

Dave Johnson chairs Shuffling Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 8:30 He encourages new shufflers to come see what this is all about. New shufflers needed! See schedule of activities on 1st page left of this weekly newsletter. If you’re new to the park, don’t be afraid to “jump in”. It’s a great way to get acquainted. Rio Valley Estates is known as the FRIENDLIEST park in the Valley! Anyone who has ideas for new games/activities should suggest them.

Dave Johnson #93 does park directories, he will need your name and phone nos. for the next park directory

Activity Calendars are posted by Judi DeKoning. Editor thanks Judi for putting these up. Between that & what editor “remembers” from last season, names of chairmen are shown in left column, front page of newsletter. Let Mary Lou or Judi know of changes or corrections please! If you wish a copy as they update send an email to judideke@gmail.com, include your name and put Calenders in the subject line.

A big thank you to the gals who have decorated the dog park area with plants , a statue etc, very nice!

Several of the entertainers have cancelled this year, the gals are workimg on it.

We will have a Christmas program hopefully the little children from Cleckler Elementery school will return

Besure to sign-up if coming to Thanksgiving Dinner, there's a sign-up sheet in the hall.

Remember Church starts at 9:00 now

Al Lenius says Dummy Rummy starts Sat. at 9:00 a.m. , bring a dollars worth of dimes !!!

A Chairman is need fort Thanksgiving Dinner , you will get lots of help so don't be shy about volunteering!

 

Mark Probst says our icemachine is running ok now, thanks to George for fixing it, but the warranty has expired, hopefully we won't have any problems with it. Mark says the new chairs are too large to put under the stage so finding a place to store them is a problem, may have to put them somewhere in the back room. The new chairs cost $31.50 each , the old chairs were all sold.

 

Dances Craig and Dana Daves Chairs the dances and said all the entertainers for dances are all coming 1st dance is Jan. 3rd