Lubbock’s famous ‘Star’ – an all-time favorite

Yes, folks, this month’s column is about China Star Restaurant, 1919 50th St., here in Lubbock. Years ago, the “Star” was one of my late husband’s favorite buffets. So, after many, many years I decided to patronize the “Star” again.

I thought now would be a great opportunity to touch base. My youngest daughter and I decided to go for a Sunday brunch to give me a free day out of the kitchen.

OMG – I couldn’t believe the expansion of all the great selections. First, there was a huge heaping container of crayfish, then a large tray of two whole salmon fillets, a large container of Portabella mushrooms, and yes, even enchiladas for those “South of the Border” taste buds. The list of newbies could go on and on – at least the selections are all new to me.

It was impossible for each of us to taste everything, but what we selected was all so delicious.

The beef and broccoli was out of this world. The beef was so tender and the sauces so yummy. I also selected many varieties of chicken –even chicken nuggets. One of my chicken selections was even topped with sesame seeds.

Daughter also chose beef and broccoli, plus an egg roll, and a serving of chou mein noodles. If shrimp is your preference, then there are several choices, as well.

The fruit and pudding selections are extensive and there’s another buffet table with many cookies and other goodies. I didn’t even get to that one. My favorite “dessert” from years ago, sliced bananas in strawberry glaze, is still one the choices on the fruit buffet. Now that’s what I call consistency. It has to be extremely popular to survive all those years.

Another “newbie,” at least to me, is a huge rice cooker on one of the buffets. If anyone desires hot steamed rice, this one’s for you. There’s also a made to order “Mongolian Chef Grill” area for your personalized entrees.

This “Star” was born in 1994 and has weathered all the economic storms since. It’s been their superior quality of food and service that has made their buffet a survivor.

Adam, one of China Star’s long-time servers, has become a type of TV celebrity. He’s been featured on many commercials, and has seen the 2nd generation of patrons coming to him – quite an achievement.

As you can surmise, this is one of my all-time favorites. Until next month, Cathy

Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world combined. Canada is an Indian word meaning ‘Big Village.’

Next to Warsaw, Chicago has the largest Polish population in the world.

Woodward Avenue in Detroit, Michigan, carries the designation M-1, so named because it was the first paved road anywhere.

Istanbul, Turkey, is the only city in the world located on two continents.

In honor of the Garrisons

The Garrison Institute on Aging was established in 1999 and named in honor of Mildred and Shirley Garrison in 2005. Our mission is to promote healthy aging through research, promote educational and community outreach programs, and serve the community with services and contacts throughout the community.

If you have questions on health issues, aging, chronic disease and mental health, please reach out to us. We can assist in connecting with the right source for your concerns.

The armadillo

After the crazy weather in February, I have finally found the answer as to why. The armadillo in Texas did not see his shadow so we can expect snow, rain, cold, heat and as always, windy!

A transition month

March has become a transition month. It has weather that spans the thermometer but also holidays to celebrate. March 8 is International Women’s Day -- not sure why this is not a special day every day. March 12 is the beginning of Daylight Saving Time -- let’s hope this is the last time to recognize this. March 17 is Saint Patrick’s Day -- a day we all pretend we are Irish. And kiddos will have Spring Break - I think we all need one too. Coke was invented in March and the telephone was patented in March. Time to sit back and enjoy the month.

Trust Point Rehab

The Care Partner Academy session will be held at noon March 15, at 6630 S Quaker, Suite G. Trust Point Rehabilitation Hospital of Lubbock will be on hand to provide information and answer questions about services they can provide for numerous conditions. This is a session you will not want to miss. The Care Partner Academy is an informal group that meets monthly to share various topics and is free and open to the public. Light snacks are provided. For additional information, contact Joan at 806-7431217 or email at joan.blackmon@ttuhsc.edu.

Coping, Stress & Caregiving

The Healthy Aging Lecture Series will meet March 22 at 3 p.m. Jonathan Singer, Ph.D. will present Coping, Stress and Caregiving as We Age. Dr. Singer is a clinical psychologist at Texas Tech, who is conducting sessions for caregivers and respite care. This event is free and open to the public. The event will be held at the Academic Event Center, 3601 4th St. There is ample parking next to the building and ADA parking as well. Contact Malcolm Brownell to confirm attendance (Malcolm. brownell@ttuhsc.edu or 806743-3751).

Quality End of Life Care

Mental health sessions

By

We are also hosting a mental health session for caregivers as well as a respite care program with the guidance of Dr. Jonathan Singer, TTU Department of Psychological Sciences. If you are an informal (unpaid) caregiver of someone with Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, or other related dementia diseases, he has programs that can benefit you. Participation in his study can assist in providing future services for you and those you care for. Caregivers are encouraged to contact Dr. Singer for additional information. You can contact him at 806-8345884 or email at jonsinge@ ttu.edu.

March thoughts…

• Stealing someone’s coffee is called mugging.

• The other day I held the door open for a clown. It was a nice jester.

• Definition of pasteurize -- too far to see.

• No matter how much you push the envelope, it will still be stationery.

• The Energizer Bunny was arrested. He was charged with battery.

• I put my grandma on speed dial. I call that instagram.

• The only day of the year that gives an order –March 4th.

I try not to limit my madness to March. ~ Maxine