Ropa Usada (Used Clothing)

There are many Winter Texans in the winter months of each season who roam the Ropa Usada facilities of the Rio Grande Valley in search of the ultimate buy. For pennies per pound, you can search through piles and piles of discarded items. I personally know women and men who make a regular practice of it and the finds they make can be truly amazing. There are discarded wedding and prom dresses, teeshirts of every description, sports clothing such as ski apparel, dress-up clothing for children and the list goes on. I know of a completely finished quilt top that it is guessed to be discarded by uninformed children of some poor woman. It was rescued by some faithful Ropa goers and transformed into a finished quilt and then raffled for charity. Some women rescue baby clothes and restore them to like-new condition and then donate them to birthing centers. All of this is an underknown phenomenon of the Rio Grande Valley. It works best to go with someone who knows the ropes of Ropa but you can go on your own. The people who work in these facilities are glad to answer questions for you. Many offer discounts to Winter Texans so it pays to tell them you are one.
I think the one place who impresses the most, at first sight, is Tres Dimensiones.
You can learn quite a bit from their website as well as how to get there.
https://sites.google.com/view/tresdimensiones/home

Butch and I and Deon and Jim will be glad to answer questions about it. Just ask us

This link is to a style show featuring exclusively found Ropa Usada items.
2018 Ropa Usada Style and Talent Show :
https://magnolianews.blogspot.com/search?q=Ropa+Usada+Style+Show

Trivia Clue for 2/4/2020

Tuesday, February 4th Trivia Clue can be found in the first 5 paragraphs at this site. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angora_wool

FYI

When I started posting to this blog the total page views were just over 9,000 views, somewhere around 9,150, and not had many people looking at it for quite some time. It is reassuring to those of us who post that people are seeing the fruits of our efforts. And in years past on my personal blog, I have found there are people following us who we do not know in person at all. It always surprises me with the things people have learned about us. And that underlines the purpose of this Trophy Gardens blog too. People we do not even know yet are looking at us and the fun we are having and perhaps even as I write planning to visit us sometime in the future. I keep those unknown friends uppermost in my mind as I write. So if you have a picture of an event and think it might convince someone to come share in the fun you can send it to me and I will post it.
So take a peek over to the left of this entry and see where the views are now. Also, feel free to share this blog with friends and family. Being open to the public they can check in on us at any time. Suggest they visit www.trophygardens.blogspot.com and become a follower.

Want to receive Trophy Gardens blog entries in your email? You will not miss anything if you choose this way of seeing it. Here is how to get that done.

While in your browser type in trophygardens.blogspot.com. When you get to the blog scroll to the bottom of the page. There will be a place where you can put your email address. Hit the Submit button and they will ask you to put a check in the box to prove you are a real person. You will then receive an email and if you click on the link in the email it will confirm that it works okay and when each new entry is made you will receive a copy of it in your email. Thanks for being a follower of the blog.

Barb Brooker (keep.movin.on@gmail.com) 

www.brooker3.blogspot.com

Sometimes it doesn't work

Sometimes the links on Facebook to this blog do not work. At times I have been perplexed by this too so I did a bit of looking around on the error message and this is what I found; www.trophygardens.blogspot.com normally uses encryption to protect your information. When Google Chrome tried to connect to www.trophygardens.blogspot.com this time, the website sent back unusual and incorrect credentials. This may happen when an attacker is trying to pretend to be www.trophygardens.blogspot.com, or a Wi-Fi sign-in screen has interrupted the connection. Your information is still secure because Google Chrome stopped the connection before any data was exchanged.

You cannot visit www.trophygardens.blogspot.com right now because the website uses HSTS. Network errors and attacks are usually temporary, so this page will probably work later.

So we can all rest easy as it is a temporary situation.

www.cobainternet.com

My Internet is important to me. I do quite a bit on the Internet as you might imagine if you know me even a little bit. The Internet is my one big indulgence. So when we found out the Wilder Internet was going away and would not be available next season it was time for some investigation. I like to think ahead. So we decided to try Coba since it was a pay-as-you-go system, no contract, start and stop as you need, and 3 levels of availability depending on your expectations and usage. I decided on the middle option. There is some upfront cost but indulgence, remember? Also Butch and I have 8 devices that have a need for wifi usage. No system works well if it is overloaded

Since we have used it now for about 6 weeks we are frequently asked about it. It was a bit rocky in the beginning because we tried to use an outside bin with an electrical plug on the motorhome as a home for the router. The signal was weak this way so we brought it inside the Motorhome by way of the slideout and then it worked perfectly and has ever since. They first tried to mount it on the ladder on the back of the motorhome but could not obtain line-of-site to the antenna so it now resides on a tripod near the front of the motorhome. One other tip. If you have been hooked to the Wilder Internet you will need to go into your settings and delete it because it will argue with the new system. There is a place where it says "Forget it" and that is what you need to do with it. That most likely will not be necessary once that old system is no longer available.
I am not being compensated for this blog entry. I think it would be nice if I were but no, it is not happening.

www.cobainternet.com

Tuesday Trivia Results

We had 5 teams participating and I have noticed that the teams are flexible. People sometimes cannot make it for one reason or another but others step up and fill in, sometimes it is planned and other times it is just serendipity. It is a great way to meet new people and also get to know your friends in a different light. Subjects come up that you otherwise never give any thought to. I have known people who are discussing some of the questions even days later.
First place winners with a score of 138 were Team B&B: Teresa Howard, Sara and Tom Daggett, Deon and Jim Spangler, Kristi Johnston and Margie Baumbach.

2nd place winners with a score of 128 were Team SmartyPants: Dan, Linda and Chris Lang, Heather and Richard Donald, Barb Jacobson, Jean and Bob Williams, and Chris Cronk

Online directory update

We are 25 entries closer to completion. Bev Mcenaney helped with getting folks to fill out the paperwork, one page of simple info and follow up with a quick snapshot. I cannot say it often enough that the info and pictures will not be shared with anyone other than Trophy Garden people. Only people who join in the project will have access to the info it provides. On the info sheet, you do not need to share any more than you are comfortable sharing. The more people who participate in this project the better it will be.
If you already have a photo you like it can be used. Take it to the activity office and Jason will get it scanned. Or I recently snipped one from an online site for directory use with their permission of course. If you have one on your phone you can text it or email it to the activity office. There are many ways to get a suitable photo. And if you do not like the current one it can be swapped out at a later time.
Thanks so much for those who have helped and thanks to those who will step up next Tuesday. We will be taking photos starting at 9:00 before the meeting or you can get one taken after the meeting is finished. It only takes a few seconds.

Bits & Pieces Monday 1-27-2020

Bits & Pieces

Monday 1-27-2020
Lucy Klaas would like to thank all sewers and helpers that came to help sew veterans quilts. These quilts are given to the permanent veterans of the valley. We will tell you how many quilts were sewn when we get the final count.

Sue Koehoorn and Barb Jacobson would like to thank these people for bringing salads and desserts for the military sew day. Jo Beckman, Sheryl Bach, Nathalie Anderson, Kathy Ellis, Barb Yount, Jan Jackson, Renie Stinson, Juanita Backer, and Jean Boots . We especially want to thank Karen Green for her help and the chocolate cake. We had good comments on the food.

Sue Koehoorn was asked by many to provide the recipe for BBQ burgers or Sloppy Joes which were served Monday and also at the last craft show. They are Gluten Free.

BBQ Burgers:

1 lb. Hamburger
1 C. onion
½ green pepper
1 T. vinegar
1 sm. t. yellow mustard
1 T. brown sugar
½ t. salt
1/8 t. ground allspice
1 ½ t. Worcestershire sauce
½ c. water
½ to ¾ C. catsup

Brown and drain hamburger, add other ingredients. And simmer 1 ½ hours in crockpot.


Pam Leaman, Lot 83, 281-744-8282 HAS FOR SALE MOTOTEC 48V 800W ELECTRIC TRIKE
Bought in 2018. Less than 5 miles. Has cover. Long-lasting rechargeable battery.
Has reverse along with brake setting when parked.
Front headlight and rear battery flashing red light. Goes up to 20 mph.
$500 OBO  Sells new for $749

Trophy Gardens/Winter Ranch Bridge Tournament will be February 13 at 11 a.m. at Winter Ranch.  They are the hosts this year and will provide prizes, snacks etc.  The cost is $1.00 and you need to sign up in the bridge room.  Any questions contact Barbara Willis at 712-253-6259.

That is all for tonight!!
Betsie Brown

Trivia Clue for 1/28/2020

Trivia Clue: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maryland It is within the first 5 paragraphs. Guaranteed! See you in the Main Hall, Northeast Corner on Tuesday evening at 6:30 PM

Rio Grande Valley To-Do List

Rio Grande Valley To-Do List

I comprised this list many years ago and put it on the blog for our former park. So if it seems a bit dated to you that may be why. Most of it is still pertinent.  In no particular order...

1. South Padre Island
a. Beach walk
b. Dirty Al's
c. Pirate's Landing
d. Kite Festival
e. Port Isabel- The Shrimp boats is a comin'

2. Basilica at San Juan
http://www.sanjuanshrine.org/
Even if you are not Catholic this is worth a stop.

3. Nuevo Progreso, Mexico
Everyone has a favorite place to eat/shop so go on down and develop your own favorites.

4. Riverside- right on the Rio Grande River. Great Food and Music. A fun place to gather with friends. Located south of Mission TX

5. Ropa Usada- means used clothing in Spanish and there are several places south on 23rd street out of McAllen where bargain hunters load up with used items for pennies a pound. An experience not to be missed.

6. Los Ebanos hand-pulled Ferry. This is not a highly touted tourist attraction. You can ride the ferry across the Rio Grande by car, bicycle or on foot and then it is about a mile to the first little Mexican village. They do not cater to all the fanciful things you will find in Nuevo Progreso. They are friendly but it is Mexico at a more basic level. English is not spoken by many. It is a whole other country.

7. Golf at several different courses all of them a bargain compared to other parts of the country.

8. Park Activities- We cannot overlook our own backyard. Our own Park schedules a multitude of things to do sometimes making it difficult to find time for the other things on this list. The very best of bargains!

9. Santa Ana National Park- Your Golden Age Pass will get you into the park to spend several hours enjoying nature.

10. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park
See Javelina and every bird known to the Rio Grande Valley.

11. The original Iwo Jima Memorial in Harlingen TX

12.https://www.fws.gov/refuge/laguna_atascosa/ 

Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge

13. http://port-mansfield.com/ Lots of people go to Port Mansfield to see the deer and other wildlife 

14. Port of Brownsville tour

      https://islatours.com/tours/port-brownsville-tour

Bits & Pieces Monday 1-20-2020

Bits & Pieces

Monday 1-20-2020

***Come join the fun in the hall tomorrow for the CFO Silent Auction. There will be Karaoke, Happy Hour, and a meal plus the bidding on the things to be auctioned off. Bidding will begin at 3:00 pm and ending at 6:00 pm.

Karl and Lois Johnson are asking for your prayers. Their son Ronnie has cancer. God healed him 20 years ago of cancer and can do it again. Ronnie was in the 101st airborne screaming Eagles when he was parachuted into Panama for jungle training. Noriega opened a dam and flooded 40 soldiers with Agent Orange. Ronnie is now 1 of 5 survivors of that incident. Thank you so much for your prayers. Karl & Lois.

Older golf cart for sale.  Needs new batteries.  $250 or best offer.  Call 785-427-7503.

There will be a planning meeting for the Puppy Parade at my house this Thursday at 11:00 a.m. Winter Ranch is in charge this year but we are also helping.     We value your advice so come to our planning meeting.   Bev  Brix

I didn't give you all of Charles Fellenstein's phone number last light.  He is looking for a repair person for his water softener.  If you know of someone call him at 913-515-6403.  Leave a message.

 That's all for tonight!!

Betsie Brown

Pictures Please?

I am taking pictures for the online directory every Tuesday morning after the meeting. It helps if you wear your badge as that assists Jason and me to make sure the right picture accompanies the right name. Jason can use an existing photo if you would prefer by bringing him the picture. These photos I am taking are not studio quality but they serve the purpose of getting the directory put together. The picture can be changed later if you want a better one. What I am trying to say is that it is not rocket science. Getting this first directory done is a bit of a challenge. Once an initial directory is complete subsequent ones will be relatively easy. And once this online directory is complete a paper one will be forthcoming from the info gathered.
The season always slips away quickly so Jason and I are asking for your help with this project. Jason says we are currently at 75 entries and that is an indicator of how far we are away from completion. The procedure is a single sheet of paper filled with your info and a simple picture that takes less than 15 seconds. You can come to the activity office anytime to pick up the paperwork and have that part out of the way. Get your picture taken and Whiz Bang you are done! This info will only be available to Trophy Gardens people and to have access to it you will need to be a part of it. The picture will NOT be on Facebook at any time. 
How about next Tuesday?

Lost Charm

I happened to be in the office this morning when Margie Felling Baumbach was in there. She has lost a silver charm and still has not found it. This was lost on January 16 on Remembrance Sunday at church. A man picked it up but it hasn't been returned. There is an inscription on it that says "Keep calm and stay strong." This charm means a lot to Margie and she is still hoping that it will be returned. If by chance you were the person who found it and simply threw it away she totally understands how that could happen but she would like to know. Rather than putting her phone number on this blog if you have this charm, not knowing who it belongs to or found it and threw it away, could you please let the office know and they will contact Margie.

Bits & Pieces 1-16-2020

The woodcarvers are going to have a beginner carving class for those that would like to try carving. It will be on Saturday, January 25th in the woodcarving building by the woodshop. Tools and rough outs will be provided.

Friday: **Remember there is the Jam Session at 12:00 noon in the main hall. Come and enjoy the music.

**A wine tasting party at 3:30 pm in the main hall. Bring wine and your own finger food.

**Card Bingo in the main hall at 6:30 pm.

Saturday: **Dance with Sweet Water.

Sunday: **Church at 9:00 am.

**Mixed Doubles in the Pool Hall at 1:30

**Entertainment: Bill Chrastil 7:00 pm. $8.00


On Tuesday, January 14th the 1st place winners were Team B & B, Teresa Howard, Chuck Howard, Sara Daggett, Tom Daggett, Jim Spangler, and Deon Spangler with a score of 138. In second place were Team SmartyPants, Dan Lang, Linda Lang, Chris Lang, Heather Donald, Richard Donald, Barb Jacobson, Jean Williams, Bob Williams, and Chris Cronk with a score of 130. The trivia gang is growing as we had five teams. There is plenty of room for more. It isn't all about winning although I am sure that is fun too. It is a chance to make new friendships, meet new people while discussing a variety of things. It is amazing the bits of information we all have in us and the fun it creates when it rises to the surface. The next chance to have fun with us is Tuesday, January 21 at 6:30 PM in the Northwest corner of the Main Hall.
 Hosts Barb and Butch Brooker
 ***This is the website where you can find the answer to one of the trivia questions. Good luck and thank you for your support of Trivia! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polo



Alex Stinson reported that On Wednesday, Alex Stinson hosted a 10-Ball Tournament. There were 12 participants. 1st place: Butch Brooker, 2nd place: Pierre Jubinville, 3rd place: Alex Stinson, Honorable Mention: Keny Patrick.  Thanks to all who participated.


Hoss Collar for Wednesday, January 15th, 2020 started out pretty wild.  We were moving pretty slow with dinner when Paul Revere called (Lance Pearson) and warned us that there were lots of people at the courts ready to play Hoss Collar.  We raced up to the courts and lo and behold scores of people were standing in line to pay and play.  We had more people than we could accommodate, which is a word that we learned how to spell in last Tuesday’s Trivia.  We had to turn away at least 15 to 20 people, which makes us awfully sad.  We will be at the courts by 6:00PM from now on and please, if you want to play be there by 6:15PM. Pat Snyder won First Place with 675 astounding points, even after being painfully injured in a fall last week. Someone in the crowd suggested that maybe she should fall more often. Rick Dewey, a relatively new player came in 2nd Place with 577 points as did Art Chaput with 577 points. I’m wondering if both received their extra dollar back. We will have to check on that. Chuck Hull came in 3rd with 569 points.  Thanks to everyone for coming and please come back to play next Wednesday evening by 6:15PM and bring a one-dollar bill. Keep on having fun and we will see you then.  Dan and Linda Lang



Bean Bag results for 01-14-2020

  1st Place-Jesse Jackson & Vince Yount

  2nd Place-George Burleigh & Gary Case

       Consolation-Gary Eakin & Bob Yeley



Bean Bag results for 01-16-2020

1st Place-Bob Lee & Don Wulf

 2nd Place-Gelene Gullekson & Jesse Jackson

         Consolation-Larry Snodgrass & George Burleigh

********THERE WILL BE NO BEAN BAG ON TUESDAY THE 21st BECAUSE OF THE SILENT AUCTION.

That is all for tonight!
Betsie Brown

Trivia Clue for Tuesday January 21st.

This is the website where you can find the answer to one of the trivia questions.

Good luck and thank you for your support for Trivia!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polo

*$#! Tree Pollen!

Betsies Bits and Pieces-1/13/2020

Monday 1-13-2020

Betsie Brown is carving this week and is out of the park for most of each day. I will check my e-mail every evening to see if there is something that needs posting in Bits & Pieces.

*****Margie Baumbach needs your help: I lost a silver charm at church on Remembrance Sunday. A man picked it up and spoke to my brother-in-law Wynn about it. Wynn did not realize it was mine. That's all we know. Mary had given it to me when Steve was sick. It means a lot to me and I hope it will be returned. It is a rectangular shape and an inscription- " Keep calm and stay strong" I remain hopeful it will be turned in to the office.

Suzie Kritta has a Golf cart for sale. Green with a beige top.  Brand new batteries.  Call 816 506 2096

Don Leach is missing a gray fleece jacket. It has a collar and front zipper. Lot 598.


*****The 2020 Remembrance Video is now posted on Youtube at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QeHeslQXImo&list=UUJHv2j3NWpY9N8D-0JyBvXg&index=2&t=0s

 For Members of the Family who would like to have a copy of the DVD, it is available at no charge. For others, copies are $3.00 each, plus an additional $3.00 to cover shipping costs. If picked up in Trophy Gardens, shipping does not apply.

Please send an Email to Dan Lang circleup8@gmail.com with your Name, Address, and phone number. Great way to find a Valentine gift for your honey. Many great ideas made by crafters in the park. Come and check it out Thursday morning.

******In Park Craft Sale!!! Come and check it out Thursday morning... Great way to find a Valentine gift for your honey. Many great ideas made by crafters in the park.



Mark your calendars for the Silent Auction, Karaoke, Happy Hour & Meal on Tuesday, January 21 from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Lots of Silent Auction items like baked goods, fun baskets, jewelry and more. Come join the fun! Karaoke with Rainy and Henry. Talent from Trophy and Winter Ranch! Bring your favorite drink for Happy Hour and enjoy a sausage/hot dog with toppings (chili, sauerkraut, onions & relish) plus chips, bars, and lemonade.
The event is sponsored by Caring for Others (CFO). All funds are used to help those in need in the Alamo area.

During the windstorm, we found a nice cushion for a chair in the middle of Silver Medalist at Titleist Friday at noon.  If this is yours please contact the Lang’s at (405) 818-2714.

Hoss Collar results for Wednesday, January 8th, 2020.  After a brief “heavy drizzle” prior to 6:00PM which made us wonder if anyone would want to play, we had 21 people with their one-dollar bill in hand show up.  Karl Pettersen won 1st Place with 678 points, Dan Lang won 2nd Place with 593 points and Richard Zimmerman won 3rd Place with 564 points. This is a game that is very easy to learn so come and play three games, meet new friends, get some exercise and have a lot of laughs.  We meet every Wednesday evening (weather permitting) between 6:00 and 6:15 at the courts and bring a ONE DOLLAR BILL per person. Most of the participants get their dollars back. Our regular shuffle is MWF with play starting at 9:00AM, be there by 8:45AM with 30 cents for three games. This is a very easy game to learn as well, and everyone is welcome to come and play.  Laughs are free.  Any questions please contact Dan or Linda Lang at (405)818-2714.


Trophy Gardens won the Friday Mid Valley Pool League: Trophy 31 games, Alamo Rose 18 games



Pickleball Schedule 01/13-1/18

>>> 01/13 Mon - 11AM-3 PM

>>>01/14 Tues - 3:30PM-5:30PM

>>>01/15 Wed - 11AM-3:00PM

>>>01/16 Thur - 3:30PM-5:30PM

>> 01/18 Sat - 11AM-3PM




“When Life Gives You Lemons” Group to Begin Soon!

 “Life is not the way we think it is supposed to be.  It is the way it is.
The way we cope with it is what matters.”

 If you have been challenged by a difficult situation or loss, you might want to attend a new weekly group entitled “When Life Gives You Lemons.”  The group will meet in the Activity Room on Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 from January 22 to February 26. 

 Dawn Phelps, nurse/social worker, will facilitate the group, and stories, handouts, and snacks will be provided for those who attend (no charge).  Topics will be announced during the first group.  Dawn can be contacted at tomanddawn@twinvalley.net or 785-427-6540

-There was a heatwave in the pool hall on Sunday for mixed doubles as smokin’ hot Bev McEnaney and Keny Patrick won 7 out of 8 games. Keeping the pressure on were Deon Spangler and Butch Brooker with 6 wins and Renie Stinson and Frank Neumann along with Janet Yeley and Paul Kelleher winning 5 games.
It was a good time! Come on down-every Sunday afternoon at 1:30. Gwendolyn

That is all for this evening.....
Betsie Brown

Attention all Birders

Some serious changes are about to happen for the birds of the RGV who happen to take a liking to Trophy Gardens. Stay tuned to the blog for further developments. A request will be forthcoming for donations of hummingbird feeders, shepherd hooks, bird feed etc.
Here is a nifty idea for an oriole feeder. Does anyone have an old garden rake head they would be willing to contribute to the cause?

Trivia clue for January 14th

Trivia Clue for January 14th game.

Pretty in Pink, the movie

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pretty_in_Pink

Trivia is good for your health. Keeping your wits about you is a good thing!

Betsie's Bits and Pieces 1-9-2020

Thursday 1-9-2020

I hope you in the park were there for the Pancake Breakfast and the Goldwing Cowboy and Indian Church. church service. The music was great and the message Pop gave us was wonderful.

Janet Yeley needs a referral for a good urologist in the valley. Call her at 319-440-4663.

Furnace filter:  20 x 25 x 1 Filtrite, lightweight.  If you can use it,  you can have it.  Lot 689. Charles Fellenstein

Team B&B came out on top this week with a score of 128 and Team Knew Bees finished in second with a 116. There is plenty of room for more players. We are meeting in the Northeast corner of the main hall on Tuesdays at 6:30 PM. I do not have next week's questions ready but when I do, a clue will be given to one of next week's questions and it will appear on Trophy Gardens Resident group on Facebook, on the blog located at www.trophygardens.blogspot.com and on Betsie's Bits and Pieces.

The winners on Wednesday, January 8th in-park pool tournament (with about 30 entries) are 1st Butch Brooker & Don Wulf, 2nd Ron Beeksma & Pierre Jubinville, 3rd Jerry Johnson & Alex Stinson.

There were 222 people in church this Sunday. Again, Pastor is looking for people to be greeters and to bring cookies. Please sign up on the Church board on the South wall. If you get a hymnal that needs repair, give it to Betsie Brown so she can repair it.

From the Hall Meeting: Lynn reported there are 552 people on 301 sites and there are 73 pets. ****We have two propane companies that come to our park. Rio Delta is here on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Amigo is in the park on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
**** If you get mail in your box and it doesn't belong to you, please take it to the office to be dealt with. Don't leave it on the table or throw it away in the mailroom.
 *** If you have something on the storage spaces, please come to the business office and make your payment and get a sticker.
 ***Pet owners, you must have your dogs on a leash and be sure to pick up after your dog. If you want to let them off the leash, take them to the dog play area.
The list of those present in the park is not posted anymore for your protection.

From Stephanie: ***Debra Ulmer is the new Arts & Crafts Coordinator. She has posted an Arts & Crafts schedule on the Arts board on the South wall.
*** Fees for lockers in the craft hall are due. They are $ 15.00 this year. Pay at the Activities Office. ***Glynn Massingill let us know that the Air Med dinner is coming up on January 30th. It is a ham and potato casserole dinner for $9.00.

***Marsha reported for the 1st responders that they have had 20 calls already. She asked that if an ambulance shows up, please don't come around and look. “The 1st responders can not give out information so please don't ask.” ****

***Russell and Le Roy have their Pizza Party Friday. ****Sunday's Entertainment is Leslie Blasing. What a wonderful singer. She performs on Padre Island as well as the parks in the valley. Come to see her at 7:00 for a small $8.00.

 That is all for tonight!!
Betsie Brown

Betsie's Bits and Pieces January 7th

Bits & Pieces.
Tuesday 1-7-2020
I am sad to let you know about the passing of Caryl, Sonny, Todd. It was just learned today that he passed away on August 1, 2019. You might remember that his wife Ann passed away in March of this year.

Also, I learned that Mary Ann Mills passed away today. Cards can be sent to her daughter at: 1501 Drury Ave, Eau Claire, WI 54703

Trophy Gardens wins the “Friday (1/3) Mid-Valley Pool League”, Trophy Gardens 34, Palm Shadows 14. Way to go Trophy men!!

**Quilters, bring a fat quarter to be exchanged at the meeting Wednesday. It should have something to do with Valentine's Day.

Lance Pearson has a Serta Perfect Sleeper Luxury Hybrid Queen Mattress with pillowtop for sale.  If interested,  call 218-234-1001 for more details.

I'm looking for a good Chiropractor. If you use one and like them, please reply to this B & P with a name, phone number, and address.

Knit Anon: Just so everyone knows, ALL knitters are welcome to join us on Wednesday and Friday mornings at 10:00 am!  All who knit, from beginners to experts, whether you knit for yourself or for charity, women or men, are encouraged to bring their needles and yarn. If any questions at all call me, Suzanne Land at 712-229-7434.

Pickleball Schedule 01/06-01/10

>> 01/06 Mon 11AM-3 PM

>>> 01/07 Tues 3:30-5:30

>>> 01/08 Wed 11AM-3:00PM

>>> 01/09 Thur 3:30PM-5:30PM

>>> 01/10 Sat No Pickleball Quilt show in MHPickleball  Schedule 01/06-01/10


This Sunday there were 13 teams gathered to play in the Mixed Doubles Pool tournament.  There were 8 games played.   Team Renie Stinson & Lonie Hull won 7 games.   Team   Lola Wulf & Butch Brooker won 6 games.   Teams winning 5 of their games were teams Gayle Steinbeck & Paul Kelleher, team Claudette Jubinville & Alex Stinson and team Gwen Newman & Terry Steinbeck.     Looking for some fun on a Sunday afternoon come join us.   Start time is 1:30...come have a good time. Be sure to sign up.

That's all for tonight!
Betsie Brown

Tuesday Trivia. January 7th

Thanks to Candy Dewey for being so diligent in getting pictures. I have not put together next week's questions yet so stay tuned for the clue. When ready it will appear here in this blog and on the Trophy Gardens Resident group on Facebook and in Betsies Bits and Pieces.
 Hosted by Barb and Butch Brooker

Team B&B came in first this week with 128

 In second place with 116 were Team Knew Bees

 Team Retirees Inc.

Team Smartypants

LOW-CARB SOUTHWEST EGG CASSEROLE

A recipe? Really? Yes really. I know many people are trying to eat a low carb diet, especially this time of year. I have been a fan of Kalyns Kitchen for many years. She has many good recipes for a variety of healthy choices. https://kalynskitchen.com/southwestern-egg-casserole/#more-21662
If you are not into recipe's scroll on, my friend.
Barb B.

LOW-CARB SOUTHWEST EGG CASSEROLE


yield 8 SERVINGS prep time 10 MINUTES cook time 30 MINUTES total time 40 MINUTES
This delicious Low-Carb Southwest Egg Casserole uses ingredients you probably have on hand.

INGREDIENTS
  1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes, very well-drained
 14 eggs
 1 4 oz. can diced green chiles
 salt and fresh-ground black pepper to taste
 2 tsp. Spike Seasoning
 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
 1 cup grated Mozzarella cheese
 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
INSTRUCTIONS
Dump the tomatoes into a colander placed in the sink and let them drain well.
Slice the green onions (and I do recommend using the full amount because they add a lot of flavors.)
Put the drained tomatoes, sliced green onions, and diced green chiles into the casserole dish and stir to combine. (Save a few green onions for garnish if you like.)
Beat the eggs until they're well-combined and add salt and pepper, and Spike Seasoning.
Sprinkle 3/4 cup Monterey Jack cheese and 3/4 cup Mozzarella cheese over the veggies.
Then pour over the egg mixture, and stir with a fork to combine.
Sprinkle the other 1/4 cup of each kind of cheese over the top.
Bake in a preheated 375F/190C oven about 30 minutes, or until eggs are completely set and the casserole is lightly browned on top.
Serve hot, with sour cream and salsa if desired.
NOTES
Diced green chiles are Anaheim chiles, not spicy Jalapenos. If you don’t have Spike Seasoning, use any all-purpose seasoning blend that’s good with eggs.

Egg casseroles can be kept in the fridge for at least a week and reheated in the microwave or in a hot toaster oven.

Recipe created by Kalyn. (Low-Carb Southwest Egg Casserole was first posted in 2006 and last updated January 2020.)

Trivia Reminder

Tuesday, January 7th at 6:30 PM in the Main Hall. It is not a trivial thing, this trivia business is a tremendous amount of fun. Make up your own fine mind.

Crops

Two sides of the golf course are edged with crops and they grow fast and change frequently. On the north side, the cabbage probably isn't far from harvest, The crop to the north of the cabbage is too far away to discern what it might be. The east side is closer but can still be a challenge to identify. Here are some east side photos of the crops.

 The different layers of green make a pretty picture. I think the picture below is early cabbage plants.

 Not sure what this might be. Perhaps cabbage that is a bit further along.

I am guessing this could be Kale. If you know better inform me. 😄

This plant has jagged leaves and reminds me of a dandelion leaf but I do not know what it might be.

 Same here. Mystery plant,

A Project you say?

Whenever you get a few guys together they will think up a project. This always happens regardless of what part of the country you happen to be located.
Pictured are Dave Page (well-known project guru),  Butch Brooker, and Bob Wollin.

Sunday in the Park Pool Hall

Winners of the mixed doubles in the pool hall were Lonnie Hull and Renie Stinson winning 7 of 8 games

Betsies Bits & Pieces 1-3-20

Bits & Pieces

Friday 1-3-20
Beginning Bridge Lessons begin on Monday, 3:00 - 4:30 pm. in Sunset Room.   Or come for a refresher course.

A group exercise class is starting Monday, January 6, They meet every Monday,  Wednesday,  Thursday and Friday at 8:00 am. They meet in the main hall.  Come join the fun and feel great!

From the Park Meeting on Tuesday Lynn reported:     ****that there are 467 people in the park on 261 sites and 68 pets. occupied!!    ****Any transportation with wheels needs to obey the traffic signs. The speed limit is 10 MPH., Stop signs are red so stop and yield signs are triangle and say yield at certain intersections.    ****Golfers please be respectful of those living along the golf course. Please yell “FORE” if you send a ball towards them. Let them know that you are sorry.                ****When getting ice in the kitchen. Use the scoops not your hands. Get a bag of ice but “NO Coolers”      ****Treat the kitchen like it is a commercial kitchen. Please DO NOT put personal things in the black fridge.

***JD said there are about 17 units coming into the park after New Years'. Just driving around you can see that a lot of sites have filled up.             ****He asked that if you have a board in the ditch, please anchor them so they don't go down the road with lots of rainwater.

From Stephenie: ***A Mystery Bus trip is coming up on January 21st. You need to pay the $7.00 when you sign up.    ****Don't forget to sign up for the blood draw on Monday.

From Pastor Darrel: *** Sunday is the church service in the main hall at 9 am followed by cookies and coffee. We also need people to sign up to bring cookies and we need greeters to sign up. The place to sign up is on the Church Board. Also, he is looking for people to sign up to Carry a Rose on Remembrance Sunday on January 12th.

From Russell and Kathy Cropp: Entertainment Sunday, January 5th at 7:00 pm. Erick Kearns wants to Entertain you with the ''Voices of Legends Show''. It is a well-spent $8.00. He will sing songs of Neil Diamond, Tom Jones, Elvis, Johnny Cash to name a few.

Bean Bag Results for 12/26/19
1st Place-Jolly & AW Martin
2nd Place-Tom Scott & Paul Mettler
     Consolation-Marie Hehn & Bonnie Riza

Bean Bag Results for 01-02-20
1st Place-Marie Hehn & Rich May
2nd Place-Rich Zimmerman & Barb Yount
     Consolation-Don Wulf & Paul Mettler

That is all for tonight!!
Betsie Brown

New Year of Trivia

Tuesday, January 7th, 2020 trivia will be in the Main Hall at 6:30 PM.
The clue is Saving Private Ryan and the info can be found here:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saving_Private_Ryan
The answer will be contained on the first page.

Looking forward to seeing new faces amongst the familiar ones.

Trivia Results

Team Knew Bees were the winners Monday night with a score of 112

Left side-Mark, Rich, Bob, Alice                          Right side- Susan, Sig, Linda, Candy

Team B&B and Team IDK tied for second so we will have to do a tie-breaker question next Tuesday and get the prize situation resolved.