New Year's Eve Dance Party

January Ladies Day

On January 10th 2018 we are going to meet at 9:15

 and carpool to Mozna Chocolate Factory for a tour. 

 

 The tour costs 8$, factory is located at

115 E Brazil ST, Hildago, TX. 

 

After we have tickled our appetite with dark chocolate

we will have lunch at Zucca 83,

 a delightful Italian Restaurant located at

4901w Expy 83, suite 220, McAllen, TX.  

 

         Reserations must be made by Friday January 5th,

 by calling Karen 412-848-3305 

or stopping by lot 434. 

 

We will have a menu on the January 2nd

so the restaurant can prepare for us.

 The lunch will be about 25$,

includes Soup, salad, main course, and  dessert.

BINGO!

From Bob and Carma:. 

 

Sunday night bingo has started up again. 

 

 Next Sunday, 7PM. 

 

 $4.50 a card for 10 regular games of bingo,

1 coverall and 1 progressive coverall. 

 

The progressive pot will be about $170. 

 

Hot Diggety Dog!

 

Sing along with me....

 

Hot Dogs roasting on an open fire...

Jack Daniels nipping at your nose.

Mustard and relish and onions inspire

Folks to shed off all their clothes.

Everybody knows that chili and some real soft buns

will help to make the season bright.

 

Bring your chairs and your eggnog to drink

and you'll find it hard to sleep tonight!

 

 

Richie and H-less will again host a Sandpiper get-together (stop singing!), this time sponsored by Buddy and Marilynn.

Wed., Dec 13, 4 pm

Richie & Sue's place #424

All utensiles and condiments will be provided...just bring your chairs and drink of choice.

 

 

 



Important Cancelation!

Sue & John have canceled the open house for Saturday, Dec. 9 due to nasty weather.

Think warm thoughts for the future.

Gong Show!

It's almost time for the Gong Show!

There will be 2 performances on January 27th. 

 

Gather your friends and let your creative juices go wild to produce an act or skit that you would like to perform. Talent and experience are not required, but the ability to have fun is mandatory!

 

Once you have your act together (pun intended),

contact Jerry or Marsha, #415, at:

Jerry 813-892-5503 or jerry.hoover.email@gmail.com

Marsha 727-455-4495 or marshasemail59@gmail.com 
 

Let's Dance!!

December Bicycle Ride

The December issue of Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine is dedicated entirely to the Rio Grande Valley.  In commemoration of their 75th year in publication they decided to focus on a single area of Texas and the staff decided that focus had to be on the RGV.  They sent the entire staff to the RGV, housing them at Estero Llano Grande State Park south of Weslaco.  Every article in this issue of the magazine is about the RGV.  A one year subscription (10 issues) costs just $18.00.  There are regular offers in the magazine for $12 per year and 2 years for $20.  You should be able to purchase this issue at any of the State Parks in the RGV.  You can read any or all articles in this issue at:  https://tpwmagazine.com/

Our next bicycle ride will be at Estero Llano Grande State Park on Tuesday, December 5.  We will ride some of the trails in the park.  We take a short walk to visit the alligator pool.  Along the way we will visit the most photographed bird in the world, a Pauraque (a relative of nighthawks and whip-por-wills) which sleeps alongside the trail.  We will also see a variety of other wildlife.  The wetlands in the park host an amazing variety of water birds.  We'll also take a look a the floodway which guides flood waters of the Rio Grande to the Gulf of Mexico.  Another interesting feature of Estero Llano Grande State Park is the RV and mobile home park which became part of the park several years ago and is now returning to the wild.  Our final stop for the morning will be at Fat Daddy's for lunch.  Lunch is optional but if you like BBQ, Fat Daddy's is legendary.  Just a few miles south on International Boulevard from Estero Llano Grande is Progresso, Mexico, a popular spot for Winter Texans.  You could make a stop there on your own following our trip and lunch.  As of November 28, the forecast for our next bicycle ride looks like temperatures will be in the 60's and low 70's with partly cloudy skies.  Perfect weather for a bicycle ride.

We meet near the gate at 9:00 a.m. Please park along the road from the office toward Pizzazz.  We will travel in a caravan to our destination.   Many of the places we ride were featured in Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine.  The bicycle rides are excellent for Sandpeeps who are new to the RGV.  Explore the valley from one end to the other.  We always advise bringing sunscreen, water, and insect spray.  If you want to see the birds up close, bring binoculars.  If you want to capture a few of the moments, bring a camera.  We carry tools to make minor repairs and fix flats.  As we are often some distance from our cars, it is a good practice to carry a spare tube in case of a non-repairable failure.

Our last ride was on South Padre Island.  The ride was pleasant.  As with most of our rides, there are few or no hills.  We ride at a relaxed pace, stopping often to  sip some water or look at one feature or another.  South Padre Island is making some great strides, we enjoyed a very new bicycle trail along Gulf Boulevard.  The trail is so well done, smooth, wide, numerous parking areas with beach access,  that it made riding a real joy.  We also enjoyed riding along the beach front in Isla Blanca County Park.  The beach was brimming with sunbathers and swimmers.  Fishermen and kite surfers were enjoying a beautiful warm day.  We enjoyed lunch at Blackbeard's Restaurant.  Following the ride, Louise and I spent several hours walking the boardwalks of the South Padre Island Birding Center.  As sunset approached, the birds were very active and we saw many beautiful birds at very close range.

Questions?  Bicycle ride leaders:  Tom and Louise Butler, Lot 44

Christmas Open House.CANCELED!

Canceled!

Xmas Open House 

To all of Sandpipers.  Join your friends and neighbors Sat. Dec.9, 4-6 PM for

 Holiday Cheer at

 John & Sue's Holiday House (#37). 

 

 I have heard that ugly Xmas sweaters, Elf clothing,  Santa hats and more... are all encouraged.

 

You are all invited to a

Christmas Open House

at John and Sue's fantastically decorated house-#37

Sat. December 9,

4-6pm

 

Do NOT bring chairs,

(circulate, drink a little, find the mistletoe,

 flit from one goodie tray to the next.)

 

Do BYOB,

 

Do break out your special recipes

(it's Christmas!) to impress and amaze.

 

This is a holiday meet and greet for all Sandpeeps

 to wish a Very Merry to one and all.

 

As for the parking...remember the NovemberFest parking rules?  Park on the side of the road, do not even consider parking on the grass or Santa will leave a lump of coal in your stocking! 

 Don't block the road.

 

So save the date, mark your calendar, enter into your iphone:

 

Sat. Dec. 9, #37, 4-6pm

Bring your holiday cheer!

 

The Potato Princes Summon You!

Hear Ye, hear ye, one and all...

 

November 29, Wednesday

4 of the clock

 

Report to Castle number 424

 

To attend a roasting of potatoes. 

 

Bring your chairs and mead,

all toppings and utensils will be provided by

 Prince Richie and Prince Jon (the prince without the "H")

 

100 spuds will be burned at the stake-one has your name on it!

 

Pink Pumpkin Woes!

Picked up our Pink Pumpkin fight cancer at the office.

*It made appearances at October's pub night,

 *it was in the office

*and at the Holloween Dance.

This year it was empty!

 

Over the past few years you all have given over $750.

 

  This last year we have lost many a dear one to CANCER and in our circle of friends we have several who are fighting with all they have to beat this menace.  Please help.

 

I will be collecting at Thanksgiving Dinner,

and at my lot 434 through the weekend.

 

 Checks can be made to

MD Anderson or The American Cancer Society.

 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

 

Karen Hazlett 434

Bicycle ride November 21

We are anticipating fine weather for the bicycle ride tomorrow, November 21, at South Padre Island. 

Temperatures are forecast to be in the low 60's when we depart Sandpipers at 9:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. 

On the Island, the high temperature will be around 80 with winds 10 to 15 MPH from the South.  That means a little headwind on our way to Isla Blanca County Park at the southern tip of South Padre Island.  It also means a friendly tailwind for our return to the Convention Center.  We will stop during the ride to eat lunch at Blackbeard's Restaurant.

We make a brief rest stop at the State Travel Center at the junction of US 83/I-2 and US 77/I-69E.  We normally arrive at the Convention Center between 10:30 and 11:00 a.m.  If traveling independently, we advise you to be very conscious of the speed limits along Hwy 100 to South Padre Island.  Strict adherence to the speed limit will save you money and time.

Our ride usually ends about 1:30 or 2:00 p.m. after our lunch. There are many attractions to see following the ride.  You are welcome to stay and enjoy South Padre Island and Port Isabel.  We return to Sandpipers independently.

Bicycle rides are led by Tom and Louise Butler, Lot 44.

It's Wine Time!

Sip'N'Dip

 

 

 

 

A wine sampling experience

Dec 10

3pm

Flip Flopz

 

Bring a bottle of wine and a dish to pass...

(no crockpot or plug in available)

 

Sip some vino and sample some finger food.

Plates and glassware will be provided.

 

Just bring your hungry and thirsty selves,

(and your bottle and delicious yummies)

and socialize with your friends and neighbors.

 



December 'Ladies Day Out' (more info)

December 2, Saturday

at 11:30 we will have a delicious lunch at the

 Spanish Room, Casa De Palmas

101 Main St, Mcallen, TX. 

Meet at 11am at the gate.
 

After lunch we can join the Christmas in the Park,

 over 30 craft and art booths,

two stages with carolers and musician. 

All happening in the square.

Must reserve by Nov. 27, 2017

by calling Karen 434 Hazlett @  412-848-3305  

Come join us for great food and a

unique Christmas shopping experience.

 

Recycle!

This is a reminder for some, new info for others.

Sheryl (#11) has, for years, been collecting packaging materials and recycling them to Mailbox Depot.

 

  Many leave the materials on her porch or in her golf cart but those "not in the know" have been dumping into our already overburdened dumpster.

 

  Previosly she actually went dumpster diving but health issue (not to mention ewww!) have forced her to stop.

 

PULEEESE! Take a moment to deliver to #11 (porch, golf cart or just knock on the door) any:

1. Styrofoam

22. Bubble wrap

3. Air bags (those little bubble bags)

4. Bubble wrap envelopes

5. peanuts

6. most packing materials, but NOT boxes.

 

You will be not only recycling for the planet but also reducing the load on our dumpster.  Do you know how much it costs to have that monster emptied?

Plus saving Sheryl from diving headfirst into the dumpster to rescue packing materals.

 

The Earth thanks you, Sandpiper thanks you and Sheryl REALLY thanks you.

Veteran's day luncheon

Hello Peeps!
Still need responses for the Veteran's day luncheon. 

 Deadline is tomorrow who will be attending.

 Veterans eat free, spouses accompanying their veteran will have a reduced price of $5.00. Everyone is welcome to attend. 

Non Veterans/spouses price is $7.00 per person.

 AGAIN PLEASE LET US KNOW BY TOMORROW! (Nov 9)
LEAVE ME A RESPONSE on Facebook OR PRIVATE MESSAGE ME OR CALL THE OFFICE OR COME BY!!! 

 

  Menu is:

 Pulled Pork served on a bun, coleslaw and beans,

 dessert is peach cobbler

 thanks
maria

Book Club Starting!

Hoorah, the first book club of the season is next

 Tuesday, November 14 at 11:00 am at Flip Flopz. 

 

We will be discussing The Summer Guest by Justin Cronin, an author not unknown to us, but in a completely different genre. 

 

 Brush up those recipes and bring a small salad or dessert. 

 

  I can't wait to see all of you again. 

My best, Louise

Ladies Day Out Reminder

November 15th at 8:15,

tour Quinta Mazatlan Hacienda and birding center,

  lunch at Republic of Rio Grande,

10th st, McAllen. 

 

 RESERVATIONS BY 

Friday Nov 10th.

Tour is $5.00

. 

Call Karen Hazlett at 412-848-3305. 

 If I don't get 10 resevations I will cancel Ladies day out. 

 Thank you, hope to hear from you soon.

   big HUGS,

 Karen

Don't forget!!!

Nov. 8...a Wednesday.

A spectacular, much anticipated event here at Sandpipers.

THE Beer Fest!

Sites 36 & 37

4 pm

Everyone is invited! The whole park-tell your friends!

*1. Bring 2 unusual, unique, or foreign beers (per person). Travelers, show us where you've been thru beer! If you don't drink come anyway, just bring yourselves some cola or tea or somthing.  We don't judge...much.

 

*2. Bring your own chairs. Apartment dwellers-chairs will be reserved for you!

*3. This is a Super Happy Hour so bring incredible and delicious food...from appetizers to main dishes, even desserts! (electricity is available for crock pots).

*4. Parking golf carts is limited so park only on left or right side of the road leaving a car pass-thru...and for Heaven's sake, don't park in the field or you'll disappear forever!!!!!

Tasting of all beers will be in 2 oz. cups while you acquire vast amounts of skilled beer tasting knowledge

Bowling Info from Bill F.

Hi all you SPR Bowlers,

I've a couple of inquiries about bowling,

 so I thought I send out an early reminder.

 

Our first day of Bowling will be Friday Dec 1, 9:30AM. 1917 at the Flamingo bowl.  We will have an organizational meeting one week before at the Flamingo bowl at 9:00 AM.  We'll bowl for fun after.

Get your teams together,  let me know if you have any changes.  Also I have a list of subs, several new ones so should be able to fill out any team that might be short.

 

 

  I know Bob Burt will be out  untill after the first of the year as he taking treatment for Non Hodgkins Llymphoma.  I talked to him yesterday and he doing quite well.

 

We wish him all the best for a full recovery.

2017-2018 Bicycle Rides

There are conflicts with the Book Club which meets on the second Tuesday
on each month.  Louise has reviewed the schedule.  We have tried to have
our make-up days on that day to minimize the possibility of conflict. 
The only other activity scheduled on Tuesday morning is the Motorcycle
Ride.  That is a mutually exclusive group and does not to our knowledge
create any conflict.

Tom & Louise Butler
314-374-5889

Sandpipers Bicycle Ride Schedule 2017-2018
General Information: Line up on Main Street (on the N side of the street by the office, Pizzaz and bath house) ready to depart the gate at 9:00 a.m. We ride at a relaxed pace stopping occasionally to point out items of interest, sip some water and catch our breath. We travel with tools for minor repairs. Bring a camera, binoculars, sun screen, insect repellant, emergency medications, whatever applies to your situation. Dress for the weather, layers allow adjusting for temperature changes during the ride. We sometimes have pick-up trucks or other vehicles with additional room for bicycles if you don’t have a way to haul your own. Contact Tom & Louise, Lot 44, if you have space available or if you need someone to haul your bicycle.

Our Schedule: We are scheduling a ride on Tuesday, every other week. If a ride is canceled due to adverse weather conditions, we will use the following Tuesday as a weather make-up day. Strong winds, cold temperatures and rain may result in cancelation. Decision time is 9:00 a.m. on the day of the ride. If we are there, we ride, if we are not, we’ll go next week. I’ll start an e-mail list for those who would like an e-mail notice of cancellation. This will be done on short notice most of the time. Only a truly ominous forecast will bring cancellation the night before a ride.

Lunch following a bike ride has been a tradition. We will continue this tradition but it is by no means required that you lunch with us. Occasionally we have a ride that requires bringing a bag lunch. For some rides we stop mid-ride for lunch so a bicycle lock to secure your bicycle while we are in the restaurant is needed.

Bike rides are led by Tom and Louise Butler, Lot 44, 2tmb@earthlink.net, 314-374-5889


　

2017
  November 7 – Bentsen State Park & World Birding Center

Description: Bentsen State Park near Mission has water features, scrub forest and grasslands. The Hawk Tower is handicap accessible and gives us a nice overview of the area near the Rio Grande and Mexico. There are bird feeders with blinds for observers which make bird watching extraordinary. We will ride about 8 miles on level paved park roads with a short walk to the Hawk Tower. There is a $5 per person entrance fee for those who do not have a Texas State Park Pass. We will eat lunch at BJ’s Brewhaus near the McAllen Convention Center. Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellant, bicycle helmet, binoculars and/or camera as you desire.


November 14 – Make-up date for Bentsen State Park – If November 7th is cancelled for weather we will do that ride today.

　

November 21 – South Padre Island and Isla Blanca Park are featured on this ride. The ride is on level, paved city streets. We ride about 12 miles from the Convention Center to the southern tip of SPI in Isla Blanca County Park and return. On the return we will stop for lunch at Blackbeards Restaurant, bring a bicycle lock to secure your bicycle during lunch. There are no admission charges on this ride. Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellant, bicycle helmet, binoculars and/or camera as you desire.


November 28 – Make-up date for South Padre Island in the event of weather cancellation on November 21^st.
December 5 – ^{Estero Llano Grande State Park. Estero Llano Grande State Park is a World Birding Center site. This is a ride through the state park on park trails. With the exception of the levees this is a level ride on well-maintained gravel trails. Estero is a wildlife rich park with many water birds and if warm, butterflies also. We will ride through an abandoned RV park which has been annexed by the park and is being returned to the wild. The park is the closest to Sandpipers which has alligators. We’ll park our bikes and walk to the alligator pond to see if any are active and visible the day of the ride. Admission to the park is $5.00 per person but several of us usually have a Texas State Park Pass so we can usually get at least one person per couple in with the pass. Following the ride, we will load our bikes and drive to Fat Daddy’s Barbeque for lunch. For those interested in a trip to Progresso, Mexico, Estero Llano Grande State Park is just a few miles from the parking lot for the bridge.}

December 12 – Make-up date for Estero Llano Grande State Park in the event of weather cancellation on December 5th.



　
 December 19 - Bicentennial Boulevard Bike Trail. This is a dedicated bicycle and walking trail that parallels Bicentennial Boulevard. It is under development to the north of Nolana and we may explore some of that area. To the south the trail crosses Bicentennial several times. There are lights at the crossings. The trail is flat and is paved along its entire route. We will park at the IMAS, International Museum of Art and Science, and ride as much of the trail as the weather and time permit. This ride could be 6 to 8 miles long if weather permits. If the ride is shorter and the group wishes, we can visit the IMAS (Admission is $5 for seniors) before loading bicycles and driving to the Corner Bakery Café for lunch.


　


2018
January 9 2018 - Make-up date for Bicentennial Boulevard – IMAS in the event of weather cancellation on December 19th.

　
January 16 – Mission Bike Trail. This is a dedicated bicycle and walking trail. It is paved though rough in a few spots on our ride last spring. The trailhead has undergone significant development and I’m hoping that the trail will show the same improvement. The trail has several hills, not steep but not flat either. We will ride through the native thorn scrub and cactus and along an irrigation canal. The ride length can vary depending on weather. The short version is about 5 miles out and back on the same trail. The long version is about 4 miles longer. That extension is virtually flat. After the ride we will load our bikes and travel to McAlister’s Deli in McAllen for lunch.


January 23 – Make-up date for Mission Bike Trail in the event of weather cancellation on January 16th.

January 30 – The Old Hidalgo Pump House. The Old Hidalgo Pump House pumped water from the Rio Grande to the irrigation system in the early days of agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley. Originally run by steam powered pumps, it was later converted to diesel pumps. Much of the old equipment remains and we will take a short tour the facility. The ride is along the Border Wall for a short distance, past the retention ponds, along the canal system and through the town of Hidalgo. There is an admission charge or $3 per person. The ride will be about 3 miles on paved and gravel trails and city streets in Hidalgo. There is a short climb to the top of the levee at the Pump House. Lunch will be at Republic of the Rio Grande in McAllen. Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellant, bicycle helmet, binoculars and/or camera as you desire.

　

February 6 – Make-up Date for Hidalgo Pump House in the event of weather cancellation on January 30th.


February 13 – No Ride

February 20 – La Lomita Mission and Anzulduas Park and Dam

Description: These two locations combine to make an interesting ride right along the Rio Grande River. La Lomita Mission is one of the missions begun by the Oblate Brothers. The original chapel has been restored recently. Anzulduas Park is a Hidalgo County Park adjacent to the Anzulduas Dam. We will also see the floodway which directs floodwater from the dam to Laguna Madre on the coast. We will ride about 5 miles on a little used public road and park roads. There is one hill as we leave Anzulduas Park and we will also climb the levee going to and from La Lomita Mission. There are no admission charges on this ride. We will eat lunch at Danny’s Restaurant in Mission following the ride. Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellant, bicycle helmet, binoculars and/or camera as you desire.

　

February 27 – Make-up date for La Lomita Mission and Anzalduas Park and Dam in the event of weather cancellation on February 20th.

March 6 – Port Isabel. We will depart the gate at the regular 9:00 a.m. departure time. There will be a short rest stop at the Texas Visitors Center at US 83 and US 77 in Harlingen. We’ll arrive in Port Isabel about 10:30 a.m. for those who wish to travel independently and meet us at the parking lot just east of the lighthouse. From there we will ride through some of the neighborhoods in Port Isabel. We get some nice looks at the Laguna Madre and the homes along that coast. We’ll ride over a unique side-swing draw bridge and see the shrimp fleet in dock from a distance. Following the ride we’ll load our bicycles and drive a short distance to Dirty Al’s Seafood for lunch.

　

March 13 – Make-up date for Port Isabel in the event of weather cancellation on March 6th.

　

March 20 – Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge – Our longest ride, we will bicycle about 14 miles in a loop which takes us from the interior to a paved road along Laguna Madre, the inland waterway between South Padre Island and the mainland. We stop of lunch at an overlook on Laguna Madre. Pack a sack lunch and bring plenty of water for the trip. There are restrooms at the headquarters and also at the lunch stop. Sunscreen and layers of clothing will increase your comfort level. Wind can be a factor, the ride is longest in the north/south direction. We carry repair tools but you must carry your own spare inner tube for your bicycle. This is highly recommended. In 2016 we had one non-repairable flat tire.

March 27 – Make-up date for Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge in the event of weather cancellation on March 20.

April 3 – McAllen Bike Trail -– The McAllen Bike Trail is a paved level bicycle and walking trail that parallels 2nd Street, Col Rowe Boulevard. We will ride 8 to 10 miles on the trail and through neighborhoods in North McAllen. The trail is generally well landscaped with features of the irrigation system evident along the way. It crosses a number of side streets, most have lights and crosswalk signals. We can vary the length of the ride depending on the weather. We will stop at Gatti’s Pizza Buffet on the ride. Bring a bicycle lock for the lunch stop. The Butlers will be out of town on this date and a substitute leader is needed for this ride. Volunteers should contact Tom and Louise Butler, Lot 44.

　

April 10 – Make-up date for McAllen Bike Trail in the event of weather cancellation on April 3rd.

Time to do the Monster Mash!!!

October BeerFest...in November!

Nov. 8...a Wednesday.

A spectacular, much anticipated event here at Sandpipers.

THE Beer Fest!

Sites 36 & 37

4 pm

Everyone is invited! The whole park-tell your friends!

*1. Bring 2 unusual, unique, or foreign beers (per person). Travelers, show us where you've been thru beer! If you don't drink come anyway, just bring yourselves some cola or tea or somthing.  We don't judge...much.

 

*2. Bring your own chairs. Apartment dwellers-chairs will be reserved for you!

*3. This is a Super Happy Hour so bring incredible and delicious food...from appetizers to main dishes, even desserts! (electricity is available for crock pots).

*4. Parking golf carts is limited so park only on left or right side of the road leaving a car pass-thru...and for Heaven's sake, don't park in the field or you'll disappear forever!!!!!

Tasting of all beers will be in 2 oz. cups while you acquire vast amounts of skilled beer tasting knowledge.

As we begin this season,,,

As we begin this season
Published Oct 22 By Karen W on the Members Only Site
Alas, Pizzazz! is still not ready for our first weekend of activities…. Tomorrow, Monday October 23, the concrete guys will be in (but in and out because they are so backed up from all the rain the valley got the past month). PLEASE try to stay off the road in front of the tennis courts down to the office tomorrow. The less traffic the better. We also have the gravel scheduled to be brought in on Monday. It will be dusty and hectic with the guys trying to get the work done. With that being said, one last time to not be parked in this area until things are completed. Please do not walk through the old pavilion as well. If all goes well we should have the sidewalks ready for use by Thursday.

Our winter Texan office hours begin tomorrow: Monday – Friday 8:15 am to Noon; closed for lunch; reopen at 12:45 pm to 4:15 pm. Saturday 8:15 am to 11:30 am. If you need to meet with us at another time, please call the office 956-383-7589 OR email us at enjoylife@sandpipersresort.com to set up an appointment.

The jam session for this Friday, October 27 has been canceled. The Pub Nite on Saturday, October 28 starts at 7:30 pm. We hope that you will be able to join us in the pavilion for this event. 

 Our first lunch is on Saturday, October 27 from 11 until 2. Please stop by the office to open up your activity food account. We only accept cash. Again this year we will be giving a $15 credit when you put in $100. We have some new menu items this season and the ladies are looking forward to serving you.

I would like to thank Doc #114 for volunteering to clean up the pentenque courts. They look quite lovely. The game plays are still at 10 am, 2 pm and 7 pm. Pickleball on the single court is from Daylight 8am until Dusk 5 pm. Both the tennis courts are reserved for tennis matches from 8 am until Noon, after that the east court is available for pickleball. I know that when I published the calendar a month ago, it says that the times are posted in their areas, BUT the signs are not in yet. WVB regulation play is (and should have been) in effect 11:30 – 2 pm. Yes I just stuck the number up again until the sign is ready. No changes for women or men only games on the times.

OH the pet policy saga (will it ever end)….. do not allow your pets to pee/poop on places other than your site or in the field AND be sure that you are cleaning up after them! The grass for the activities area, the 500/600 row, and the storage area are off limits. Your pets MUST be on a 5 foot lease when off your site and do not allow them to stop on the sites as they go to the field.

Parking on other sites or in the parking lots is not allowed unless you have a permit displayed in the window of the vehicle. We still need to get sites ready for the winter Texan arrivals. Also please use the bicycle racks for parking. The black fencing is primarily ornamental aluminum and does not withstand much.

Also want to thank Jerry & Heavia #419 for donating two robellini palm trees. I hope to have the sod delivered on Wednesday for a few places that we have nothing but dirt. Thanking you in advance for not tracking through it.

We ask that you please let us know when you are returning to your Sandpiper home. We not only want you to have “the lights on” but also get wifi codes out and get our welcome home hugs. If you call and leave a message or send us an email like 48 hours in advance, we will try to be around when you arrive. Please do not think that you are bothering us, and we don’t want you to plug into some other electric, ring the phone bell as you enter even if you have a fob that will get you in the gate. We have had some spending the night with out the utilities and well that just not the hospitality treatment we are wanting to provide you with this season.

I am sure there is more that I need to share, but it is Sunday and I am trying to get home to clean up my porch area and get some dinner ready so I can watch Outlander. If you have any questions, or comments, please let us know.

Be safe and we hope that you will be able to join us for Halloween.

Ladies Day Out

November 15, 2017 

Ladies Day Out,

meet at 8:15am for a tour at Quinta Mazatlan

luncheon will follow at Republic of Rio Grande.

 

 Call Karen 412-848-3305 for reservations and information.

 

  Reservations must be in by Friday, November 10th

 

  thank you. Karen H.

RV Wash

Have I got a deal for all you RV'ers.  H-less told us about a truck wash that did his RV for cheap!!!

I mean really affordable!

 

I 69 Truck Wash & Oil

5212 N Hwy 281

Edinburg

 

Hand washed our RV to bright sparkling newness for $25!!!

The cashier said if enough Sandpeeps use them they could do a percentage off special coupon for us...so if you use them mention you are from Sandpipers.

They chage from $35.00 on up but since we are smallish the price was only $25!!! What a deal!!! And only about 5 minutes away!

For Those Who Don't Do Facebook.

Many Peeps get this info from the Sandpiper site on Facebook, but some don't "do" Facebook...so here are a few messages that may be of interest.

**************************

 

Okay peeps....quick chat about the the birthday club:
This season Karen wants to do what Nancy (Bill) had done in the past....birthday party with a little entertainment. I am not sure if Steve has mentioned or not on the radio. You will pay a membership fee (can be deducted off your activity/food money). This will give you a special invite to your birthday month! There is more details in the office or you can give me a call send me a message for more info!

*********************

 

good morning peeps!
just a quick message for those with storage: storage must be paid in advance and sign your storage agreement as well.
It is time to start moving out in to the field as well. Once you have paid and signed your agreement you will be given a number to park on the field. If you have any questions, please call me or come by the office.

thanks, maria

***************************

 

Cancer awareness month!!

The Pink Pumpkin is in the office, each October we put out the Pumpkin and Sandpiper's have always been generous.

So help us stamp out cancer, cash or checks(MD Anderson) accepted.

...

Thank you
Karen Hazlett

****************************

 

October is here!
Published On the Members Only Site Oct 3 By Karen W

I had hoped to have the Pizzazz! building ready for us to begin to “move-in” but alas we can not seem to catch a break…. ie all the rain. I think I am in Florida with everyday rain in the afternoon. Our goal now is to get the building “shell” ready for October 16th “move-in” start. We need about four days to get things dried up so that we can continue the work on the outside (concrete, gravel, sod) so he...lp me in your ancient or current “rain-relief” ritual.

Just a few housekeeping notes: You MUST have a permit displayed when washing your home. All pets are to be on leashes when off your site. Do not dispose of debris over the fence. We do NOT own any property on the other side of our fencing. All trash placed in the dumpster MUST BE BAGGED. For a complete list of our rules, they are available on the Members Only Site Handbook tab. Violations of the rules are subject to a $20 per offense. Please take the time to read over the Handbook to avoid violations of our Sandpipers policies.

If you have any questions or concerns, please come to the office and we would be happy to listen and discuss your issues with you. We wish you safe travels to your Sandpiper home.

From the Boss!

Published September 17, 2017 | By Karen W

Fall officially starts this Friday, but it is still hot here as we will see 100 this week.  I don’t know how the block layers survived the over 100 degree days for the three weeks that they worked.  Three of them were over sixty years old.  We hope to have the building “basics” done by October 1.  I named this building Pizzazz! and it is an event center.  As most construction projects go, we are coming in at 24% over budget.  There is no new stage or sound booth, no a/c, no drop ceiling, no beams wrapped, no exterior or interior painting, no flooring, and no little extras this year.  We will all have to make due.  The goal was to get the building in so that there was no rain coming in (either over head or on the floor) and testing out our stage, light and sound “setup”.

We still have plenty of work to do besides the building.  One of the projects is our aging fence line.  If you have anything hanging on the fence, please have it removed.  As for vine type plants, they need to be cut down and the lattice will need to come off.  We have to be able to move the fence panels all to the inside.  The acreage on the east apparently has been sold.  Since our fence is on the line we may not be able to work on the other side of our fence.  This project will not begin until November.  If your shed is touching the fence or you have vines and lattice on the fence, please meet with management to discuss your situation.    Also speaking about sheds, we only allow ONE shed per site.  If you have more than one, you will need to meet with management to discuss your situation.

We are looking forward to a great winter Texan season. We hope that you are able to take part in one or more of our many events that are scheduled.  If you do not see an event on the calendar, please let us know we want to provide you a action packed season.

See you soon!

 

**************************

Yikes! We have such a small back yard on the east side due to a measuring mistake years ago....hope we have something left after this.

 

Season is getting CLOSE!

Pizazz!

Our new building in progress!

 

***************************8

Jim and I have met up with Jon & Donna in Glacier N.P. and breathing too much smoke!

Smoke everywhere has closed roads, cancelled some of the events we had been planning on, and just making everything icky and smelly.  But we persevere!

Our plans after Montana had been to do the Oregon coast but fires there are even worse, so who knows?

August 25, 2017

Spent the last several days drifting south from our brief Canadian visit.  Our RV was inspected both going into Canada and leaving. 

All we had when coming back into the states was a very sad looking pluot.  The agents didn't know what to make of it.  They looked it over then huffed, saying "looks like it grew in Canada all right."!

 

We are about a week behind Ed & Claudia, Sue and Bruce.  We will be in Yellowstone next week.

 

 Hurricane news has everyone NOT at Sandpipers worried...and those who are there wet.  Hopefully it won't flood too much.  Several years ago a hurricane flooded the field so badly that I bought mosquito eating fish and released them to a banquet.

 

We are just drifting along, not doing much of anything.  I have learned quite a bit from Jim however.  Did you know all the drivers on the road are assholes?  Who knew?

Last Few Days

Yesterday-Thurs, Aug 17

We are in Grand Marais, Mn...Finally stopped raining. Yesterday was Duluth where the wind cancelled our proposed harbor cruise. Poured all night, and COLD! Still chilly (low 60's) overcast but not raining.

 

Today-Friday, Aug 18

Phew! Got pulled over for a thorough exam by Canadian customs...Texas license plate you know. Looking for dogs, guns and booze. Usually happens when we come back into the states. They must have been bored. Gorgeous day, low 70's and sunny.

Why?

I think I know why Avatan is so appealing to us South Texans.

 

  It is lush and green and flowery with lots of trees. Lots of private and public gardens.

 

Everone is smiling.

 

 Dick and company keep it clean and well groomed, and did I metion it's cool?  Last night in the 50's!

 

We are headed north then west.  Who knows where, just drifting.

Avatan weekend

Lovely, lovely day.  High in the low to mid 70's. 

 

 Lazy morning followed with poolside Bingo,

 very relaxed rules water volleyball,

 a wedding

and then a corn feed!

 

Any place that offers popcorn and lemonade by the pool

 has my support!

 

The wedding was very nice...dress code was hats.

The whole camp must have turned out for the ceremony.

 

There is a vibe here....an acceptance and friendliness I remember from Sandpipers years ago.  Not that Sandpipers of today isn't friendly.  Far from it. But something here is different.  Hard to describe.

In the Woods

We finally made it to Avatan,

that lovely oasis in the Minnesota woods.

 

  Spent a couple of days at a casino where Jim had the Midas touch with a few slot machines...won $300! Nice stop after our escape from the Winnebago factory.

 

Tonight we are going out for prime rib...I am so excited to not be making and cleaning up dinner.

 

Weather is gorgeous.  We went on a tour of the property and our guide was moaning about how hot and sweaty it was...78 degrees! And no humidity.

Can't believe they even can swim as it's so cool (for me).

 

Met up with Cher and Steve, and of course Frankie & Dick.  Other Sandpeeps are around and we'll run into them in the next few days, if not tonight.

Ont Road, day 2

We are at the border of Oklahoma/Texas at the Winstar casino.  A good deal if you can stay away from the gambling.  First night free, maybe.  Might have to stay a few to make that work. we'll see.

Austin broke a 65 year heat record yesterday.  You could literally fry in the sun...107 degrees!

toodles

On the road, day one

After a super long hiatus I'm gonna try to get back

into the blogging business. 

We are on the road in the RV looking for cooler weather. 

 

 Day one:

Austin where it's 106 sizzling degrees, but we are in the shade!

 

It's been almost that hot at Sandpipers where between the heat, the illnesses, the diets, and yes, even deaths depression has latched onto me. I can't even drown my sorrows in wine or beer.  I have a liver disease and can never drink again...not even cough syrup. People roll their eyes and say, "Well I couldn't do that!"  Yes you can if the doc says if you drink you will die.  Great incentive that!

 

Jim is well into the Weight Watcher program and as of this morning has lost 16 pounds.  I have to relearn cooking!

Will check in periodically and may priority you all some cooler weather if I find any.

It has Started!

Pizzazz is on it's way, not to be finished this year, but a good start!

From Karen:

We have been very, very busy here at Sandpipers getting the demolition done is lotz of work on our part. Maria had posted some pictures already from the first day. Some of the comments were: be sure to keep the pictures coming; Will there be a workout room — NO not for this season for sure; hopefully we are putting in something for the acoustics —
WELL that brings me to this: The new building (to be... known as Pizzazz!) will be lucky to be ready to use by Oct 25th. Here is what that means: The estimate to demo the current pavilion (30′ x 100′) and wooden structures on the south side of the pavilion, relocate rerun the electric, gas and water to the bathouse AND build two new buildings (Pizzazz! 4480sf and the two story 2048sf) was coming in at $250,000 (yes, a quarter of a million dollars). Well I had to break this project up into three seasons to complete. For this winter Texan season, there will be the 12′ high brick building (with the roof peak at 14′) with doors, windows, and ceiling fans. The roof will be foam insulated. The flooring, air conditioning, and drop ceiling are not in this year’s budget. The old stage deck will be in there until we can get enough funds ready for the building of the new stage and sound/light/recording booth. This is a work in progress and we are maxed out this season. At least this building will not have water leaking from the ceiling or running under your feet. We hope that you will be able to enjoy the new Pizzazz! as we continue to work on upgrading our facilities.