October Is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

ThisTHIS MonthISSUE: JuneAdopt Holidays a Shelter Dog BirdingSanta Ana N.W.R RGVHorse History Sense SPIFurry Lifestyle Goblins Dengue Fever Modifying Pet Behavior Balloon Sinuplasty SummerAuntie Kreamsaugen in RV Resorts Support21st Annual the LocalShrimp Economy Cook-Off October 2014 The Little Paper You’ll Want To Keep Vol. 1 No. 5 Make Them Both Happy ... Adopt A Shelter Dog

October is National Adopt A Shelter Dog Month

Adopt Don’t Shop! Happiness at the end of a leash! by Rebeca Villanueva Unconditional love and compan- The best way to honor Adopt a Shelter ionship is only the beginning, it Dog Month is by…adopting a shelter dog, of has been shown to be psychologi- course! There are many benefits to adopting cally, emotionally, and physically a pet instead of buying, but I’ll give you the beneficial to care for a pet. Car- top five because I want to make sure you have ing for a pet provides a sense of enough time to visit Palm Valley Animal Center purpose and lessens feelings of (PVAC) and find your paw-sitively perfect pet. loneliness and isolation in all age Save a life one leash at a time! groups. There are about 2.7 million adoptable dogs and Save your wallet! cats that are euthanized each year in the Unit- Adopting a pet from PVAC is less ed States because there are not enough people expensive than purchasing a pet. adopting pets. Animal centers all over the coun- Adoption fees at PVAC are not try are faced with limited space and too many based on breed and/or size: $110 animals, but the number of euthanized animals for kittens; $90 for cats; $140 for could be reduced if more people adopted pets dogs; and $160 for puppies. Most instead of buying them. of our pets are spayed/neutered Most animals raised in puppy mills are housed Wet noses and wagging tales! and all adoptions include microchip, vaccines in appalling conditions and lack medical atten- PVAC is bursting with happy, healthy, loving & rabies shot, medical testing, 30 days of pet tion, often leading to serious behavioral and pets awaiting to go to their fur-ever home. It is health insurance, and collar & identification health problems that are often left unaddressed a big misconception that most pets at PVAC are tags. Dogs and puppies who have not been by the breeder. there because of pet behavioral issues, the truth spayed/neutered are eligible for a spay/neuter Join the celebration and visit $50 cash rebate. All in all a great bargain! is that most animals end up at PVAC because of Palm Valley Animal Center today “people” issues such as a move, divorce, lack End Puppy Mills! of time, and financial constraints. Along with Puppy mills and over population is a national at 2501 W Trenton Rd-Edinburg TX medical tests, pets at PVAC also go through crisis that is severely affecting our community. or call us at 956-686-1141. temperament and behavioral assessment that By adopting a pet at PVAC you will NOT be Our website is open 24/7 help our Adoption Counselors match the purr- supporting puppy mills and backyard breed- fect pet with the purr-fect family! ers that put profit above the welfare of dogs. www.pvaconline.com. October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 2 21st Annual World’s Championship Shrimp Cook-Off by Cathy Laferty For 20 years Port Isabel has hosted the World presentation, so winning one year will not have WHEN: Championship Shrimp Cook-Off, handing out nd much to do with winning in the future. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place awards for amateur and Sunday November 2 Our preparation for this year’s event has al- professional categories and giving a special 10:00 am - 6:00 pm ready begun as we must plan our booth decora- award for showmanship. WHERE: tions in preparation for the showmanship award In addition to tasting the delicious shrimp In Port Isabel, TX and experiment with recipe ideas. Having to creations from the many competing chefs, there at the intersection of prepare 50 lbs of shrimp (wild-caught only!) Hwy. 48 & Hwy. 100 are other goodies offered such as turkey legs, in front of Bealls Dept. Store before the event, means choosing your size, popcorn, soda and cotton candy just to name ENTRY FEE: peeling and deveining each shrimp and what- a few. Dozens of local chefs will participate $5.00 for adults ever prep your recipe calls for. Plenty of man serving up their fantastic unique recipes to hun- $2.00 for children 10 yrs and under hours and ideas are shared by all staff members dreds of attendees from all over the Rio Grande we can get to participate. Valley. Folks will be able to purchase samples We have never made a monetary profit from from each chef’s booth for a nominal charge. 2013 Shrimp Cook-off Winners participating in the cook-off, but then, that’s There will be something for everyone so not why we do it! It’s so much fun tasting other bring the whole family and make a day of it. chefs’ recipes, interacting with the people who The Agency will be providing live music for come and it’s always exciting to see who wins your enjoyment as you explore all there is to what each year! see. This event is hosted each year by the Port This is a great event, well worth attending. So Isabel Chamber of Commerce. If you would load up the entire family and head on over to photo by Valerie Bates like to participate as a contestant or a vendor Port Isabel to have lots of fun, music and fan- you can contact Betty Wells at 956-943-2262. PadreRitaGrill has won showmanship for tastic food. Registration deadline is Fri. Oct. 24. Don’t the last 4 years and 1st & 2nd place in the pro- See Ya There! wait, call now and help make this year’s event fessional division. There are different judges Cathy Laferty / PadreRitaGrill SPI one of the best ever! every year looking for different tastes and (956) 761-7482 .. www.padreritagrill.com The Gold and the Beautiful We believe no family or child should have to face cancer alone

The phenomenal success of the Go GOLD RGV Walk this September is a reflection of the dedication and enthusiasm of the volunteers and wonderful people in our community! Follow us on FaceBook .. www.facebook.com/goldnbeeutiful

Hot Air From The Gulf by JM Laferty The Valley Spotlight All E ALL E Oxen Free … Dairy Queen. is published by All come home…. And around November 1st All Clear….. the Winter Texans will start re- Created Images and More The Tourists have gone home appearing just in time for the 305 E Los Ebanos for the season and South Padre Annual World Championship San Juan, TX 78589 Island has been left to the lo- Shrimp Cook-off in Port Isa- 956-782-2413 cals. The Winter Texans won’t bel. Their arrival brings danc- [email protected] return for another month and es, afternoon concerts, lunch a half which means it’s a bit- and dinner specials at all the Managing editor: Contributing writers: ter sweet time of year for us best restaurants and party party Rod Graham Keith Hackland locals; It’s slow, we can take party in the RV Parks. 956-457-8600 J. Micheal Laferty a wonderful deep breath of the Come on down and enjoy the Suzan Bunney sea air… quiet side of the year. But don’t Advertising: Pastor Cathy Graham and bowl down Padre Blvd! wait too long Phil Mackie But there are still great things because like 956-457-8600 Dr. Audrey Jones D.O. happening on the island; fire- the tides and M. Moreno October 2014 Issue works on Friday nights, con- the seasons… Vol. 1 No. 5 Al Ragusin certs on the bayside Friday things change distribution 6000 Cathy Laferty and Saturday evenings over quickly. © 2014 all rights reserved Rebeca Villanueva on Laguna Blvd. right behind October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 3

True Tales of a Valley Birder by Keith Hackland ([email protected]) Where to watch birds in the Valley? It is easy for folks who live here. Open Spring (mid March through mid May) the door and look outside. There are and Fall (August through December). many species of birds everywhere in the There are more than one hundred good Valley, unlike many other places in the birding hot spots in the Valley. In some world which are not so richly blessed. places one can often see, and other plac- The back yard is where many Valley es you can always count on seeing great residents start noticing the colorful and birds. These hot spots are areas of valu- noisy birds that call our area home, and able habitat, where birds find the condi- the quieter birds that migrate through tions that are just right for their particular here. species to find food, shelter, water and Every month of the year migrants perhaps also the nesting sites they need. move through our area, with peaks in the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge No doubt many Valley residents already have Then during summer they dry out again, and heard of the top Valley birding hot spots, twenty some of the special animals that live in them, to thirty of them. At the head of the list is San- like crawfish and frogs, burrow into the muddy ta Ana National Wildlife Refuge, with 2,088 earth as they dry out and hibernate until there acres, just south of Alamo, along several miles is again standing water in the Resacas. These of the winding Rio Grande encircling two sides Resacas also help sustain the valuable Riparian of the refuge. It was the first National Wildlife forest. Refuge in the Valley, having been purchased in Wintering birds love Santa Ana N.W.R. They 1943. fill the Resacas with their calls, paddling across Santa Ana N.W.R. offers 12 miles of hiking the water and stalking through the shallows. trails, three Resaca (oxbow lake) clusters, a Ducks and shorebirds are common here dur- Santa Ana has the highest species count of any great visitors center, picnic tables, bird feeders ing our cool season. The trees attract song of them, making Santa Ana the Jewel in the and ponds. It has a photo blind, a forty foot fire birds, residents and migrants, and butterflies flit Crown of the National Wildlife Refuge System. tower (with 73 steps to reach the top), and a sus- through the dappled light and shade. Raptors The best part is we here in the Valley can visit pended rope walk twenty feet off the ground. sail overhead or roost atop vantage points. Santa Ana N.W.R. any day of the week between Its habitat is comprised of thorn brush, mowed dawn and dusk, and it is close by. We are so meadows, wetlands, and riparian (river) forest fortunate compared to the thousands of visitors with its hanging clusters of Spanish moss that who fly in from across the U.S. and Canada, looks like an old man’s grey beard. and from overseas countries, to experience this We have experienced many years of drought amazing refuge. Plan to spend some time in the during the last two decades. During this time very interesting visitor center, ask to see a video at Santa Ana the dryland thornbrush does well about the refuge in the theatre, and take a tram while the rich riparian forest recedes. Then tour around the refuge to hear about some of its during years of good rainfall the riparian for- natural history from interpreters. Our children est expands again. Since the Rio Grande now should all become familiar with Santa Ana, be- rarely floods, the Resacas at Santa Ana N.W.R. cause it and our other great refuges and parks are filled each fall by management to simulate Volunteers lead nature walks and stake out here represent the rich natural heritage of our the fall floods that filled them in centuries past. spots at Willow Lake to help visitors locate, Valley. (photos by Keith Hackland) identify, and enjoy the birds and butterflies. True Tales of a Valley Birder Bob cats, armadillos, and javelina are common, Is a column about bird watching in the Valley, about the birds, places, and birding people that make this thetop birding even cougar are spotted on rare occassions. hot spot in Texas and in United States, and one of the top Spring and Summer are also rich birding times thirty birding spots on earth. here. If one adds the number of bird species to This is our Valley heritage. Birders represent 25% of Valley the number of butterfly species, and compares tourism, and spend over $463 million here annually, including $67 million in local taxes, sustaining 6,600 good jobs in the this figure to all the other 550 national wildlife Valley. Our wild birds are a valuable asset. refuges in the United States, it turns out that Look for more Bird Tales in this series

Lower Rio Grande Valley Birding & Outdoor Store Birding Guides * Birding Books, Maps, & Gear * Dealers in Binoculars and Scopes Amazing RGV Nature Art of Grover Terry Beaman * Pajaro Hip and Shoulder Packs Bird graphics by Gerald Sneed on mugs, caps, t-shirts, tote bags * Moving Mobiles South Texas Cook Books * Gifts for Outdoor Types * Field Trips * Workshops Custom Tours * Consulting We’re open when it suits you Call ahead and set up your time to browse 956-782-9912 We accept credit cards

Alamo Inn B&B, Birding & Outdoor Store * 801 Main St, Alamo, TX 78516 Photo Credit Reid & Pam Allen October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 4

Mommy & Me - Weigh & Play

Bring your kids, Weigh In and enjoy a meeting that will be geared toward getting on track and working toward your goal, while juggling all that comes with being a mom. Lead by a new mommy herself Amanda Busse will help get you there! Coming Mid-October Weigh-In 9:00 a.m. Meeting 9:30 a.m. SIGN UP TODAY 100 E. Nolana Suite 120 McAllen © 2014 Weight Watchers International Inc., it is the owner of the Weight Watchers trademark. All rights reserved.

Have Fun and Learn while you solve these puzzles and For Kids Only practice your coloring skills No matter how old you are!

Every year we celebrate Halloween on October 31st. In October we are celebrating Hispanic Heritage in America. In the puzzle below, find these words that describe areas of In the puzzle below, find these words that relate to Halloween Hispanic influence in the United States. COSTUMES, CANDY, GHOST, PUMPKIN FOOD, ART, MUSIC, DANCE, HISTORY, SPORTS, POLITICS TRICK, TREAT, SAFETY October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 5

“It is not what I like, it is what “Sully” the border collie Halloween Safety Tips likes. He gets the best of care ...”

for “These people are professional; they know and under- Your Furry Goblin stand animals ...” Halloween can be a traumatic and even dangerous time “Our dogs always love staying at Paws and Claws....we for your pets. The ASPCA would like to offer some appreciate all you do to make them feel so comfortable!” common-sense tips to help you protect them: “... she can’t wait to get out of our truck, she loves it • Don’t leave your pets out in the yard on Halloween: there are plenty there.” read full comments at www.pawsandclawsrgv.com of stories of vicious pranksters who have teased, injured, stolen, even killed pets on this night. Choose Paws and Claws Pet Resort • Trick-or-treat candies are not for pets: chocolate is poisonous to a lot of animals, and tin foil and cellophane candy wrappers can be Doggy Day Care and Boarding hazardous if swallowed • Be careful of pets around a lit pumpkin: pets may knock it over and “Your Pet’s Comfort is Our Priority!” cause a fire. Curious kittens especially run the risk of getting burned. • Don’t dress the dog in costume unless you know he loves it. Other wise, it puts a lot of stress on the animal. • If you do dress up your dog, make sure the costume isn’t constricting, annoying or unsafe. • Be careful not to obstruct his or her vision; even the sweetest dogs can get snappy when they can’t see what’s going on around them. • All but the most social dogs should be kept in a separate room during trick-or-treat visiting hours; too many strangers in strange garb can be scary for a dog. • Be careful your cat or dog doesn’t dart out through an open door. Call to arrange a While this can be a fun FREE TOUR of our Facilities time for people and pets 990 S. Tower Road ... Edinburg, TX 78542 alike, remember that your pets are depending (956) 384 - 9301 on you to keep them safe [email protected] from the more dangerous goblins and ghouls Mon - Fri, 9am - 6pm that this holiday brings. Sat, 9am - 12Noon ... Sun, 3pm - 6pm Suzan Bunney, KPA Dog Trainer at Paws and Claws Pet Resort can help you and your rescued pet adapt to a new life together! I RESCUED A HUMAN TODAY We offer pet boarding and individual, one-on-one by Janine Allen, who works for Rescue Me Dog, training that is customized to your needs and those of an organization committed to promoting shelter adoption and provid- your dog. Check out our website ing education and training resources to adoptive pet owners www.pawsandclawsrgv.com or call for more information 956-384-9301 I rescued a human today. Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering ap- Full Grooming prehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. starting at only I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she wouldn’t be afraid. As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view from a little ac- $ .00 cident I had in the back of my cage. I didn’t want her to know that 30 I hadn’t been walked today. Sometimes the overworked shelter 1615 N. 11½ St. in McAllen keepers get too busy and I didn’t want her to think poorly of them. (Off Pecan, West of 10th St.) As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn’t feel sad 956-648-2416 Linda Utberg about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want Flea & Tick Dip - Dog Sitting to make a difference in someone’s life. She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I Coats & Tails shoved my shoulder and side of my Professional Dog Grooming head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my at Competitive Prices neck; she was desperate for com- panionship. A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure Large Breeds her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and WELCOME! her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes. ADOPT A SHELTER DOG I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many YOU’LL BOTH BE GLAD YOU DID! more are out there who haven’t walked the corridors. So many more to be saved. At least I could save one. I rescued a human today. October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 6 The Mackie Clinic Shares a Success Story From Our Clinic With every service or treatment of care, with a CPAP machine. If this story sounds familiar or you’ve there is a story. Today, we’d like to intro- This was troubling to Thomas because been experiencing sinus problems and duce you to Thomas. he never had any sinus related issues that breathing is not easy: Give us a call at The Thomas is a retired Iraq War Veteran. He caused him to miss work, but now he was Mackie Clinic. worked as a State Trooper for 14 years, suffering from debilitating sinus symptoms. Dr. Mackie is a board-certified Ear, Nose keeping our highways safe and secure. Dr. Mackie told Thomas that he had some and Throat Surgeon who has over 30 years Thomas is medically retired after his time serious sinus issues, but they could be re- experience assisting the Valley with breath- in Iraq, and he tells me that it gives him duced greatly with Balloon Sinuplasty. Bal- ing, allergy and hearing problems. We time to spend with his family, whom he loon Sinuplasty is a minor office procedure helped Thomas breathe again with Balloon missed very much while serving overseas. that can be done in office with no need for Sinuplasty but we also offer hearing aids to He laughs as he tells me “I’ve spent enough an outpatient stay at the hospital. The pro- help your hearing, and allergy desensitiza- time away from them, so it makes up for cedure is usually completed in less than 30 tion therapy which can free you from your it.” When not spending time with his wife minutes and is designed to open sinus path- chronic allergies. or children, Thomas sharpens his musician- ways that have been blocked for years. Af- Our courteous and professional staff ship by playing acoustic guitar. ter meeting with Dr. Mackie, Thomas was would be happy to help you through your Thomas was given a voucher from the VA convinced that the Balloon to get treatment for his sinuses. He chose Sinuplasty would help him. to be seen by Dr. Mackie. Dr. Mackie is After the 30 minute pro- the Ear Nose and Throat Surgeon at the cedure and a day of rest, VA and has helped hundreds of Veterans Thomas returned to the like Thomas with their illnesses. Thomas clinic. As the nasal packing came out, he realized that he could breathe out of both nostrils. Over the next few weeks, the draining and run- ny nose stopped and he no longer suffered from chronic nasal congestion. The procedure made a huge impact on Thomas’s day to day life. Thomas now worst allergy, sinus and hearing symptoms needed help with his congestion problems wakes up refreshed because he is getting so give us a call today. 956-631-2957 caused by exposure to harmful chemicals better rest at night. He didn’t have the morn- while serving in Iraq. As a result, Thomas ing congestion that used to part of his daily couldn’t breathe normally. He was always routine. The nasal sprays that Thomas had congested, had constant nasal drainage, and to use all the time weren’t needed anymore. he couldn’t breathe through both nostrils. His family, especially his wife, took notice Thomas was unable to sleep normally be- of him being happier in general because no cause of his labored breathing. He suffered longer having problems breathing through from chronic nasal congestion and slept his nose. 2401 Cornerstone Blvd, Edinburg TX

The Grotto in San Benito 1801 West Expressway 83 (3rd House Down from The Longhorn) Spriritual Gifts That Help Focus Our Attention on Jesus Christ The Savior Of The World Bibles, Rosaries, Prayer Cards, Novenas, Children’s Books, Medals, Divine Mercy, Pamphlets, Crosses, Necklaces, Rings, Italian Made Religious Articles, Handmade Religious Wooden Niches, Handmade Decade Rosaries ... We can also order any item from our supply companies that sell thousands of items for weddings, quinceneras, funerals, anniversaries, prayer groups & religious conferences Come visit our Grotto built in 1953-54 .. The 1st Marian Year instituted by Pope Pius XII. Come Shop, Stay & Pray First Communion Gifts NOW IN STOCK .. TRUNK SHOWS AVAILABLE FOR RV RESORTS and PRAYER GROUPS CALL 956-241-1967 October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 7

Welcome Back to ALL of Our Winter Texan Friends

The Rio Grande Valley’s No#1 Chrysler, Dodge, Ram and Jeep dealer is here to assist you with all of your automotive needs.

956-984-4433

Burns Motors ... 1300 East Business Highway 83 ... McAllen, TX 78501 ... 1-866-464-0966 / 956-984-4433 ... www.burnsmotors.com October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 8 Transition From Spanish Texas to Mexican Texas By the late 1700s a nice little society families, mostly Anglo-Americans, to was growing in Nuevo Santander (pres- settle in Texas. ent day Texas). But the people were Anglo-Americans were attracted to beginning to feel far removed from the Mexican Texas because of undeveloped King in Spain. land which could be purchased for $1.25 Without offering much support, Spain an acre for a minimum of 80 acres. Each taxed the colonies, cut off funding to head of a family, male or female, could the missions and strictly enforced laws claim a headright of 4,605 acres (one which the colonists believed to be unfair. league-4,428 acres of grazing land and Further south in New Spain, tensions one labor-177 acres of irrigable farm were developing between Spaniards land) at a cost about four cents an acre born in Spain, known as peninsulares ($184) payable in six years. and Criollos, locally born citizens of Stephen F. Austin received one of the pure Spanish descent. first grants to establish a colony in Tex- Spurred by the defeat of Spain by Na- Don Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla .. a leader as on August 1823 on land acquired by poleon in 1808 the peninsulares took of the Mexican War of Independence his father, Moses Austin, from Spain in control of the local government of New Having been illegal under Spanish rule 1820. Two thousand settlers settled in Spain. Criollos supported by the Indi- until 1820, Anglo-American immigra- the new colony that stretched from the ans and mestizos (people of Indian and tion into Nuevo Santander was expand- east coast of Texas to La Grange. Spanish blood), conspired against this ed by Mexico’s National Colonization By 1834, over 30,000 Anglos lived in new ruling class and began the fight for Law of August 18, 1824. However, this Texas, compared to 7,800 Mexicans. Mexican Independence. law favored Mexican immigrants from Antonio López de Santa Anna became After more than a decade of bloody the south, soldiers and nomadic Texas the president of Mexico in 1833. In war, independence was won in 1821 tribes by giving them priority in acquir- 1835 he dissolved the Congress and his and the territory was given the name of ing land. Between 1821 and 1835, for- regime became a dictatorship backed by Mexico after its capitol, Mexico City. ty-one land contracts permitted 13,500 the military.

This article is part of a continuing series beginning with the Rio Grande Valley in pre-historic times and leading through present day. Previous articles in this series on the History of the Rio Grande Valley can be seen at www.spotlight.rgvaff.com STOP being BUGGED! Fresh Baked Get What The Professionals Use Mango Roll Cake to control Termites, Ants, Fleas, Ticks and other bugs. Martin Farm & Ranch Supply 956-383-4949 215 E Monte Cristo Rd. - Edinburg, TX M-F, 8:00AM - 5:30PM / Saturdays, 8:00AM - 1:00PM Closed Major Holidays

Sponge Cake Roll Filled with Mango and Cream Topped with Creamy Frosting and Fruit Come and get yours today! 624 W. Pecan Blvd. McAllen, TX I told you using termites for bait 956-631-7234 was a dumb idea! Mon - Sat 10 am - 6:30 pm October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 9 Are You Afraid Of Your Horse? I’M AFRAID OF MY HORSE. HOW DOES MY HORSE KNOW THAT I AM AFRAID OF HIM? WHY IS MY HORSE AFRAID OF ME? WHY DON’T I TRUST MY HORSE? WHY MY HORSE DOES NOT TRUST ME. These questions are the most asked of me. I hope to address these questions and more in the following article. When I refer to “horse” in this article, it applies to all three types of horses; a stallion, mare, or gelding. Lets start first by me explaining why I guess I can safely say that I have the horse acts the way he does. It does ridden over a thousand horses in my not make a difference where your 69 years of riding, and I have been horse was born, whether in a pasture, training horses professionally for 54 stall, arena, or pen your horse was years. I am currently 75 years old This process might allow me to put Put yourself in his place for a mo- born with herd instincts. The horse is and still ride horses everyday when my weight on the stirrup, but when I ment. How would you feel when go- a prey animal not a predator so he will weather permits. I have never seen a go to cross my right leg over to the ing from being petted and brushed ev- always be on the look out for a preda- horse that was afraid of me or anyone other side and he moves I immediate- eryday to throwing a heavy saddle on tor that might want to hurt him. A hu- else; but mistrust….yes. ly dismount him saying “WHOA” and your back pulling the girth real tight man being is a natural predator of the The horse will most always try to get pulling on his reins again. and putting a piece of steel in your horse because most humans must kill out of working and it is true that he When I finally get his attention and mouth, you wouldn’t like this either, for food in order to survive. A horse does not know that you are afraid of am able to get on his back without would you? So you will have to re- knows this and it makes him very him like a dog would. He may know him moving then I will speak to him assure him that you are not going to skeptical and afraid of most humans. by past experiences with you that you in a soft tone, “Good Boy” or “What hurt him and this is what he will have It is his natural instinct. are not leading him or he does not a Pretty Day It Is”. Remember the to expect each time you ride him. In Horses have some defense weapons understand what you want. I have horse does not speak English but he other words you are giving him a job to defend himself. He can bite, kick had many people bring their horses does react and associate with your and in turn his pay is a good life with with all four legs and with his back to me to prove that his or her horse tone of voice; a harsh tone with some lots of love. From the time you put legs he can kick straight back behind knows that they are afraid of them. I sort of punishment or a soft tone of his halter on you are the one in charge, him and he can also kick you if you proceed to tell them to go ahead and your voice being a reward. never but never let him have his way, are standing along side of him. Some do what they normally do with their I repeat this process of mounting the you will have to fight him by starting call this a cow kick. A cow most of horse. They start by trying to get on horse until he stands completely still the process over again to gain his re- the time kicks this way and that is their horse by lifting their left leg to and accepts it. Now I let the owner try spect back. Make all movements to- where it gets it name. Before he tries put their foot into the stirrup. While to mount his horse and the horse will wards your horse slowly when getting any of these things his first instinct is doing this the horse may step away normally go back to not letting him him used to what you want him to do. to flee and he can out run most preda- in the opposite direction or he might get on. I tell him to do exactly what Start slow and let him smell every- tors. The one place on his body that pin his ears back to bluff you into I did and in less time that it took me thing from the saddle, saddle pad, and is hard for him to defend himself is thinking that he is angry or he may he will be able to get on his horse be- the bit. Rub him with these items un- when something is on his back, he not even stand still while you are try- cause the horse now knows the alter- til he accepts these new gadgets and can’t see you or know what you are ing to mount, plus there may be other native. Remember; do not hurt your that they are not going to hurt him. If doing when you are in that position. things he may try. These things do not horse because that can create a whole you let someone else ride your horse His only defense is to try to throw you mean your horse thinks you are afraid different problem. There is never any before he is used to being ridden, you off by any means of bucking, scrap- of him, he just knows he can have reason to hurt a horse unless he tries will only confuse him. Make sure ing, or rubbing to knock you off by his way with you because it has been to hurt you with malice. And as far first that your horse understands and going under a tree or anything that is proven before. as the horse being afraid of you, it is is really adapted to what he is to do available. I take the horse from my students and simply because he mistrusts you. You before you let someone else ride him. Part of the horses herd instinct is to show them that I stand the horse still must assure him each day that you If you have any further questions you lead or follow. He will follow you if by using a harsh tone and pulling on mean him no harm. can call me at my number that is listed he understands what you want by the his reins to make him uncomfortable. Like humans, some horses are more on my website, www.alragusin.com. cues you give him, the degree that he I use the word “WHOA” to get his at- nervous than others. Your horse will View the free videos on my website connects with you, and how he feels tention. I put my left foot in the stir- get used to you petting, scratching, or and they will give you instructions about you. Is he comfortable? Is there rup and I put my weight on that foot. brushing him because this feels good. which go into detail and explain why any pain or discomfort involved? Re- If the horse moves I will take my foot But when you want to mount him he and how to use your equipment, and member he gets very little benefit if back out using the word “WHOA” thinks “wait a minute” this is not what my technique for using them. any from you riding him. and pull on his reins. I am used to doing. Good Luck. Al Ragusin

JD’s 4th Annual Trail Ride

9200 St. Hwy. 107 - Mission th 956-585-3143 November 8 , 2014 $ $ CHECK OUR Adults 20 / 13 yrs - 17 yrs 10 FACEBOOK 12 yrs and younger $5 PAGE Hosted by Register NOW FOR DAILY Estrella Ranch Get a 20% Discount SPECIAL https://www.facebook.com/pages/JDs-Farm-Ranch/184525548260094 VET CLINIC-Noel Ramirez DVM DISCOUNTS or login to FACEBOOK and search for JD’s Farm & Ranch First Saturday Every Month

ADVERTISE AT The Valley Spotlight call 956-457-8600 October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 10 From the Doctor’s Desk by Dr. Audrey Jones, D.O. Dengue Fever abdomen and the lung spaces. The wonderful rain has been Patients who have Dengue McAllen Family Urgent Care excellent for all the beautiful Hemorrhagic Fever need to 110 E Savannah, Suite A 204 • McAllen, Texas tropical plants in our gardens, be hospitalized and receive but it also brings with it a risk aggressive care to treat shock of a painful possible deadly symptoms. 956-686-4071 OPEN infection. When water col- The best treatment for Den- lects and stands undisturbed gue Fever is prevention. Af- WALK-INS 5:00 - 11:00 pm mosquitos can begin to breed. ter these great rains, you WELCOME Every Night of the Year The aedes aegypti mosquito carries the virus for Dengue Fever; it has white markings on its legs. There are four re- www.urgentcaremcallen.com lated viruses carried by mosquitos that can cause Dengue Fever. Symptoms of Dengue Fever are high fevers, head- aches, pain behind the eyes, muscle aches and pains, rash should take a tour of your and mild bleeding. These garden and insure all the symptoms can occur four to standing water in your garden 110 E Savannah ten days after you are bitten is drained to eliminate places Suite A 102 by an infected mosquito. If where mosquitoes can breed you have been bitten by mos- in your yard. Check old tires McAllen, TX 78503 quitos and have these symp- for standing water and empty 956-630-2220 toms seek medical care as them. Check other contain- www.doctorschoicerehab.com soon as possible. ers that may hold water and There are no antibiotics for make sure they are drained. FOR ALL YOUR Dengue Fever and patients Mosquitos like to bite at dawn need supportive care. IV flu- and dusk. If you are going to BACK PAIN NEEDS ids, medications for fever and work outside then use an in- pain may also be necessary sect spray with DEET in it for treatment. Dengue Fe- to keep the mosquitos away ver may advance to Dengue from you. While you are out- Hemorrhagic Fever which side wear long sleeves and could result in bleeding in the long pants. Let Us Cater Your Next Event!

‘CAST-a-WEIGH 50+ POUNDS! aka A JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME ’ If you have 50 or more pounds to lose... Call We have a meeting designed

Dine in & Carry Out with your specific needs in mind; 956-205-2151 with Leader Cathy Graham who has lost to get us started on making your next event a great success! over 65 pounds with Weight Watchers. CUSTOMIZED CATERING TO FIT YOUR NEEDS! Look for this OIL FIELD CATERING AVAILABLE meeting to begin Ace’s BBQ - 2536 E Griffin Parkway - Mission, TX Mid-October Weigh-In 5:00 p.m. FREE Flea & Tick Dip with the purchase of a $ Meeting 5:30 p.m. Bath or Grooming 1.50 OFF SIGN UP TODAY Any Bag of 100 E. Nolana Ste. 120 Coats & Tails McAllen, TX Professional Dog Grooming Nutra Dog Food at Competitive Prices JD’s Farm & Ranch Supply 956-648-2416 coupon must be 9200 State Highway 107 - Mission, TX 1615 N. 11½ St. in McAllen presented at time 956-585-3143 © 2014 Weight Watchers International Inc., it is the owner of of appointment (Off Pecan, West of 10th St.) one coupon per customer/per visit/per purchase the Weight Watchers trademark. All rights reserved. October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 11 I was born and reared in Minn-e-snow-ta in LIFE ON THE FARM We still use “out houses” in Snoose Hollow Hagen Township , a bend in the river, called by Auntie Kreamsaugen which means you might use all of the these Snoose Hollow. I’m Scandinavian and proud phrases in one day!!!! of it. I don’t make fun of my heritage, I CELEBRATE IT! My husband, Knute, was in the outhouse last We have our own style of the English lan- week for such a long time. I had to “go” too. guage like most areas of the country. Since it may be hard for a native Texan to I kept knocking and he kept saying understand my expressions, I think it wise to “I’m not done yet - I‘m not done yet.” begin to explain some of our lingo. Finally, I peeked in the little half moon on the We use words like ... door. There he was, hitting himself on top of uff-da, ish-da, fee-da and fish-da. his head with his hand - wait for awhile - then For example: if you drop your chewing gum hit himself again and again. in the chicken coop, you might say….Uff-da. Ish-da is when you think you found it 3 times. I asked him “what are you doing?” Fee-da is when you have gotten some on your He looked up at me and said fingers. Fish-da is used when it stinks. Auntie Kreamsaugen is Back! “well, it works on the ketchup bottle!” The Winter Texan Connection The Killer Bees are not www.wintertexaninfo.com the only game in town! Your Internet Source for Everything “Winter Texan” Thanks to the only public ice Our Mission: 1: To promote the Rio Grande Valley as the number one destina- skating rink in the valley, The Frio tion for winter visitors who have reached the age of retirement. Grande Valley Ice Center, any one can now play hockey in the Rio 2: To provide visitors to the Rio Grande Valley an online resource Grande Valley. There are leagues to assist them in planning their daily and weekly activities. for different age groups including A Very User Friendly Website seniors! If you want to join call 956-972-0126 for information. Gearing Up This is the website’s “drop down” Navigation Menu Bar The Frio Grande Valley Ice Cen- It is very easy to locate what you Under Public Activities & Enter- ter also offers ice skating lessons for For are looking for in this website. tainment Schedules you will find beginners. In addition to ice skating Seniors For instance, as you look at the schedules for Dances, Music Jams you can also enjoy the cool tempera- Navigation Menu Bar pictured & Karoke, Craft Shows, Parkwide tures while watching league games Hockey League above you will see a button la- Sales, Entertainment Shows, In- and practices. beled Winter Texan Communities. formation on over 100 of the en- Hovering your mouse pointer over tertainers and dance bands who ATTENTION Buy ONE this button reveals links to a pages perform in the Valley’s resorts in- WINTER TEXANS! $8.00 Skating Admission Fee where you will find all of the RV/ cluding links to their websites and Join the Seniors / Winter Texan GET ONE FREE!* MH resort parks in the RGV listed schedules. Hockey league and have a great by city, complete with contact in- All of this information is posted time this winter. If you are a perma- formation and maps. in an easy to read format. nent resident of the RGV and you Hover over Announcements RGV Features will show you all know of some of your Winter Texan and More to reveal opportuni- of the many attractions that bring friends who enjoy playing hockey, ties to post announcements on the visitors to the RGV and provide be sure to tell them about this ex- WTC Bullein board. You can also us the opportunity to live an active citing opportunity! They will need post your opinions and comments and fun lifestyle while we are here. to pack up their hockey gear and on a variety of topics related to the 4 Sale or Rent ... Find Mobile bring it with them to the valley. lifestye of Winter Texans. Homes, Park Models and Recre- Also ... If you are interested in 201 North 26th Street - McAllen, TX The More refers to pages where ational Vehicles for sale or rent by forming a CURLING CLUB, call 956-972-0126 956-972-0126. you can play a variety of online owner in the Rio Grande Valley. Coupon expires October 31, 2014 When enough interest is gener- games, see the works of Winter Get your property listed here *Additional $3 skate rental Texan artists, and even show off where hundreds of prospective ated, Frio Grande Valley Ice Center per person required your pets. buyers or renters can see it daily. will paint a Curling Sheet. Reach the Winter Texan population by advertising on The Winter Texan Connection website ... Call 956-457-8600

1. We had an uptick in undocumented immigration into transform the region, but they are just two of many proj- the RGV. Thousands of children and adults, way more ects that are changing who we are, like a new Interstate than normal, came from Central America. highway, a new univer- 2. It was swiftly dealt with by the federal government. sity and the opening of After initially being caught off guard, Border Patrol and Mexico’s energy sector. local entities and charities worked together to deal with Every region has the issue. challenges. The RGV This November, like each of the previous 20 years, 3. That huge surge of thousands per week has all but has some it must over- hundreds of birding enthusiasts from around the coun- dissipated. And the vast majority of the undocumented come. However, ours try will gather in Harlingen for the 2014 RGV Birding immigrants did not settle in the RGV. were exaggerated by the Festival. In March, thousands of Winter Texans will file There are hundreds more federal agents and officers national media’s laser into Nuevo Progreso for a festive Dia de la Turista. And on the ground now in the RGV backed up by state law focus on a temporary every day in between, tens of thousands more Winter enforcement. But here’s one more huge point we can not surge in illegal immi- Texans and local residents will enjoy the Rio Grande forget: up and down Valley sheriffs and police chiefs gration and exacerbated Valley and all it has to offer without incident. have repeatedly said that there was no crime spike during by those trying to score Out on South Padre Island, close to two-thirds of the the immigration surge and Valley cities remain among political points. I stand real estate properties are owned by Mexican nationals. the safest in the country. And from what I can tell, the with Mayors, Judges Why? Because the RGV is secure. It’s a safe place to Rio Grande Valley is in better shape than ever. We con- and the business leaders of the region – and with you – to invest, and a popular place to bring your family. It’s also tinue to bounce back from the recession with more job say that the RGV is safe, sound and ready to welcome a great place to retire or to simply stay for a warm win- creation and lower unemployment. Retail sales are up, visitors just like it always has. ter. There’s been so much negative press out there about construction has returned to pre-recession levels and our Now let’s have some fun! South Texas and the RGV, especially in regard to the airports are the busiest in five years. recent surge in undocumented immigration and security. What’s more, new restaurants and stores are opening Julian Alvarez - CEO I really can’t blame those who might question what across the region and big signature projects like a Uni- Rio Grande Valley Partnership really is going on down there. However, the truth of the versity of Texas Medical School and a Space X commer- 322 S. Missouri - Weslaco, Texas matter is this: cial launch pad are on the way. These two entities will 956-968-3141 October 2014 The Valley Spotlight page 12 THE KILLER BEES ARE BACK !

HOME GAME SCHEDULE 2014 - 2015 Thu. Oct. 02 - 7:30pm - Odessa Jackalopes Fri. Oct. 03 - 7:30pm - Odessa Jackalopes Fri. Oct. 10 - 7:30pm - Wenatchee Wild Sat. Oct. 11 - 7:30pm - Wenatchee Wild Fri. Oct. 24 - 7:30pm - Topeka RoadRunners Sat. Oct. 25 - 7:30pm - Topeka RoadRunners Fri. Nov. 28 - 7:30pm - Amarillo Bulls Sat. Nov. 29 - 7:30pm - Amarillo Bulls Fri. Dec. 12 - 7:30pm - Wichita Falls Wildcats Sat. Dec. 13 - 7:30pm - Wichita Falls Wildcats Mon. Dec. 29 - 6:00pm - Lone Star Brahmas Thu. Jan. 01 - 7:30pm - Corpus Christi IceRays Fri. Jan. 02 - 7:30pm - Corpus Christi IceRays HOME Fri. Jan. 09 - 7:30pm - Amarillo Bulls Sat. Jan. 10 - 7:30pm - Amarillo Bulls Thu. Feb. 05 - 7:30pm - Odessa Jackalopes Fri. Feb. 06 - 7:30pm - Odessa Jackalopes OPENER Thu. Feb. 12 - 7:30pm - Lone Star Brahmas Fri. Feb. 13 - 7:30pm - Lone Star Brahmas Sat. Feb. 14 - 7:30pm - Lone Star Brahmas Fri. Feb. 27 - 7:30pm - Corpus Christi IceRays OCT. 2nd Sat. Feb. 28 - 7:30pm - Corpus Christi IceRays Fri. Mar. 13 - 7:30pm - Corpus Christi IceRays Sat. Mar. 14 - 7:30pm - Corpus Christi IceRays Thu. Mar. 19 - 7:30pm - Wichita Falls Wildcats Fri. Mar. 20 - 7:30pm - Wichita Falls Wildcats FUNDRAISERS Fri. Mar. 27 - 7:30pm - Lone Star Brahmas Sat. Mar. 28 - 7:30pm - Lone Star Brahmas Sell Game Tickets ... Your Charitable GROUP TICKETS Organization Or Group GROUPS WITH 10+ PEOPLE Keeps GET GROUP RATE TICKETS $ SILVER SECTIONS STARTS 4 Per Ticket Sold in the Silver Section AS LOW AS $10 CALL 956-843-5651 Call 956-843-5651 or TO PURCHASE TODAY 956-802-7830 For More Info