Category Archives: Did You Know

Autism Mom: School Lunches

Melody Kraemer

Philippians 2:4 NKJV.

“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests but also for the interests of others.”

My boys and I go out almost every day to pick up school lunches. If anything, it gets us out of the house for a bit and gives us a break from on-line school.

On this one particular day, as I turned down the school street, there was a car in front of me that was going very slow. It was obvious this person was looking for something or someone. I just drove around them and proceeded into the school.

I was anxious to get the school lunches and get home before school started again. I still had to drop off something to a friend of mine, but she lived just right behind where the school was. 

As I left my friend’s house, I got in my car as a car pulled up beside me. They rolled down their window ( it was that same car in front of me at the school going slowly). She asked if I knew how to get to the school. ( I was confused a bit since she was right in front of the school.) I started to explain to her to go down the street, turn right, turn right again, and go to… I could see her face was saying, “what?” 

At that moment, I said, follow me. So I had her follow me to the front of the school. I pointed to the open driveway to get in, and I made a U-turn to go home. My son asked what I was doing, and did I know her? I said, no, I don’t know her, but whenever you can help someone do it. He said, I bet she appreciates you getting her to the school. I replied, Well, we may just have answered her prayer. 

“Remember, whenever you’re in a position to help someone, be glad and always do it because that’s God answering someone else’s prayers through you.”

Melody Kraemer is the Editor and Publisher of Macaroni Kid Jurupa Valley-Eastvale and Autism Mom Adventures. For more information or general encouragement, feel free to email her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com.

Autism Mom:Frustration

Melody Kraemer

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

“6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

I’m frustrated, are you frustrated?  I wake up, click my heels together, and say, “I wish we had  school on campus.” Though nothing happens, maybe it’s because I’m not wearing ruby red slippers. Does anyone know the way to “OZ?” 

Distant learning is not something my kids are not getting adjusted to at home.  I know it’s hard for the teachers and staff as well. The principle of their school stated this is all uncharted waters, but everyone is doing their best. 

Some children are probably doing wonderfully, though not the case in many families. I know how these parents feel, I am one of them. Have we looked at the impact of how it’s affecting our children, on the spectrum or not? 

Many children I have interviewed have expressed that they are angry, sad, bored, miss their friends, and are scared. 

There are so many emotions flying around for our little ones.  

We always think our children are resilient and happy in their childhood. But on the contrary, they are experiences far more than they may be showing. Kids may not be open to how they are feeling, for not wanting to disappoint mom or dad. 

Kids may think they don’t want to share their feelings since mom and/or dad may already be upset over this pandemic. 

Some kids can’t even express what they are feeling.  As parents, we need to hug our children more, reassure them they are awesome, and we will get through this. It’s time to remind them they will see their friends again and never give up hope. It’s a time to remind them God is in control and won’t leave us. We have to remember kids may not share their feelings fully, so sit down and have a heart to heart with them, if that’s feasible. If not just stay as positive as you can.

Staying positive is not always easy through this pandemic. For me anyway, but I see my children and look into their eyes, and it confirms they are trusting me to protect them, love them, and stay positive. So I smile and remind them they are the absolute best, and we are in this together along with everyone else. We all need to keep praying, keep loving, and stay positive. God is good and will take care of us and we should not be anxious about anything.

Melody Kraemer is the Editor and Publisher of Macaroni Kid Jurupa Valley-Eastvale and Autism Mom Adventures. For more information or general encouragement, feel free to email her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com.

Autism Mom: School

Melody Kraemer

Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths“

We had made it through March, April, May, June, and July, and we anticipated August. August was when school was going to start. It may not have been the traditional full learning days or even five days a week, but we would be back on campus.

Every day my little one asks me for school. I told him on August 10th. That was my mistake; I had high hopes. As the days got closer, the excitement got higher and I was so happy for him.

He doesn’t understand why he is home. He doesn’t understand anything about this pandemic around him. All he knows is he stopped going to school. I know he misses his daily routine, his classes, his teachers, and learning.

Every day he would tell me, “We go school August,10th!”

Then one afternoon, the governor came on and declared it was not safe to go back that only distance learning will take place until at least the end of August. Sadness filled my heart and the worrying about how I would explain this to him crossed my mind as I looked at my little boy.

Now I am all for safety and health, so when it is safe to go back, we will go back to school. Though try and explain that to an autistic child. 

I have to tell him his teacher is sick, that is why he can’t go to school. That statement does satisfy him. Thank goodness, he understands that much.

I am frustrated that distance learning will be part of our lives once again, which did not have a positive impact on our daily life back in March, April, and May. My two autistic boys had the hardest time with distant learning, but we will have to make the best of it and see where it takes us. We can only hope and pray that by the end of August, we will be able to step back on to the school campus and move forward. Though until then I have to trust God above and lean on his understanding and not mine. Better days are ahead; I do believe that. 

Melody Kraemer is the Editor and Publisher of Macaroni Kid Jurupa Valley-Eastvale and Autism Mom Adventures. For more information or general encouragement, feel free to email her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com.

Autism Mom: Patience!

Melody Kraemer

Ephesians 4:2 | NIV
“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in
love”


Someone once told me that they don’t pray to God for patience because if you ask God for more patience, he will give you more things to be patient about in the day.
With my two boys, I sure don’t need that.


So how do I ask God to get me through the day? I pray for peace and
calmness within myself. My (autistic) boys will jump, climb and put anything
they find in their mouths. They will lick windows, pick up bugs, once my son
put a bee in his mouth!


Some days I feel like I’m a jumping bean watching after them. I find myself looking up to the heavens many times and saying, “I’m losing it here, help.” Usually, by noon, I am so drained, all my patience is gone. Though I know God heard my prayer because at that moment, my oldest boy will come up to me, put his arms around me and say, “Mom, I think you need a hug”. Or my little one who is not much on words will crawl up in my lap and put his head down on me, just at that moment when I feel I no longer have the patience to deal with life. I may get pushed over my limit on patience throughout the day, but I know God is there, putting calmness in my heart. Life and raising kids is all about love, understanding, grace and a whole lot of patience. I thank God daily for the patience I have.


Melody Kraemer is the Editor
and Publisher of Macaroni Kid Jurupa Valley-Eastvale and Autism Mom Adventures. For
more information or general encouragement, feel free to email
her at: autismmomofboys@gmail.com.

The Eye Of The Beholder

Michael Armijo

It was a warm yet windy day filled with strong sorrow. The air reflected a deep sense of respect as people gathered to say goodbye to a friend whose spirit had left the earth.

As everyone gathered, the vibrant, wooden casket lay atop the ground as the family huddled closely around. The youngest, a young man, gazed at the casket while tears flowed from his swollen eyes. He walked up and laid his cheek on the rigid, shiny, wooden box, as his white-gloved hands gently caressed the top of the last home his father’s body would ever have. He laid gentle kisses on the top of the casket, as his unconditional love was reflected in front of all those who watched. A gentle whisper was heard a row back, “Did you see that? How sad.”

When I heard those words, I felt something deep inside that disagreed; something that didn’t see the message of sadness when the boy showed his emotions. Instead, I saw an act of love. A love so strong, it displayed the true meaning of unconditional love. Something deep inside that didn’t care if the world looked on or what people felt. A feeling of purity, of joy, and of strength.

I believe the old saying, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” I believe we all see life in certain light, and sometimes, in certain darkness. I also believe that when we express the darkness which surrounds our lives, it spreads like a contagious and cancerous disease. It attaches by simple contact, clings like a dependent child, and deteriorates in a short amount of time.

I’ve learned that opinions are only perceptions of a person’s immediate thinking, and reflections of someone’s inner self. What we see is usually what we feel, what we feel deep inside. Without realizing it, we express past experiences, deep histories, insecurities about our future, and we reflect the perception of our own lives.

I also believe that when we see life in its darkest hour, we have the opportunity to see life through the brightest light. For some, it’s a short path traveled to a place inside that holds our mind hostage from our heart. For others, it’s a level of confidence that sits deep within that’s been damaged by a careless act from another.

I believe that the true meaning of life can only be understood through the light of beauty and the inner joy that sits deep in our hearts. I believe the vision of what will come can only be seen through the eyes of a believer. I feel the truest form of emotion can only be felt when a person can feel the presence of a higher power, a stronger entity, something or someone greater than themselves.

I understand that life is not always what it is expected to be. It changes moods like a spoiled child. But I also understand that life can be what we want it to be; all we have to do is apply our hearts in front of our minds. Following what we truly feel, not what we think we see, is the only way to put aside our petty angry thoughts and our insignificant bitterness. Because just as the young man who helped bury his father, the tears that flow from our swollen eyes are tears of love that can only be seen when beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Voortman’s Egg Ranch

By K.P. Sander

Ontario – Voortman’s Egg Ranch has been in the business of providing farm fresh eggs to friends and visitors to the local area for over 60 years. Originally from Bellflower, the Voortman family – who has always been in the egg ranching business – moved their operation to Ontario in 1951.

(Photo Courtesy: Voortman’s Egg Ranch)
The Voortman Family circa 1956. Voortman’s Egg Ranch is located at 13960 Grove Avenue in Ontario. You can reach them at (909) 465-1319. They are open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Voortman’s has a small-town farm ambiance, with the latest in technology.  Their happy chickens are enjoying their newly remodeled home; and their egg-processing machine can handle about 36,000 eggs per hour at its peak. If the average bird lays one egg about every 26 hours, that equals a lot of chickens at the Voortman ranch!

Did you know that you can tell how fresh an egg is by how high the yolk stands up in the frying pan after you crack it?  Voortman’s will have your over-easies standing tall.  Their fresh eggs are the highest in quality, with dark, nutrient-dense yolks.  You will immediately notice a difference in your cooking and baking.

Have you ever wondered how long the eggs in the grocery stores have actually been sitting around?  Despite the use-by date, there is really no way to know how long ago they were produced.  With Voortman’s, the eggs are selected daily, on site, and readied for you in their store.

Third-generation egg rancher, Eddie Voortman, says, “We are a local, family-owned business that provides fresh, quality products to the public.”

Customers of Voortman’s rave about their all natural, cage free eggs, touting the freshness, and great pricing.  One customer said, “They make the fluffiest scrambled eggs!”

The eggs come in all sizes and colors, depending on your needs.  Whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed.

Voortman’s is centrally located just minutes from Chino at 13960 Grove Avenue in Ontario (just north of Edison).  You can reach Voortman’s at (909) 465-1319; and Like them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Voortmans-Egg-Ranch-101350886592418/

Stop by any time Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Potential 3/4-Cent Sales Tax Measure on the November 3, 2020 Ballot

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – In 30 years as an incorporated city, Diamond Bar has maintained its status as a desirable community in which to live, work and visit. Contributing to this status are the safe neighborhoods, well-maintained roads, and clean and attractive parks, trails and recreation facilities. The City has been able to do its part to keep Diamond Bar looking and operating its best and to provide the programs and services valued by the community by practicing responsible fiscal discipline and thoughtful budgeting.

Although the City’s current financial condition is strong, Diamond Bar faces long-term financial challenges that will impact the City’s ability to continue to meet the community’s needs and priorities. In 2019, the City completed an extensive effort to assess its long-term financial outlook in light of growing costs and the absence of new revenue streams. This effort concluded that Diamond Bar is approaching a financial crossroads where measures will have to be taken to align expenditures with revenues. These measures may include deferring maintenance of roads and landscaped areas, delaying or abandoning plans for new construction or renovations of parks and public facilities, or paring down municipal services to core necessities.

Potential Sales Tax Measure: With expenditures anticipated to outpace available resources in the near future, the City is taking steps to ready itself for this fiscal challenge. Identifying new locally-controlled revenue streams to ensure the City can continue to provide and improve on existing service levels is one of these steps. Placement of a three-quarter sales tax increase measure on the November ballot is still under consideration by the City Council. For more information please sign onto www.diamondbarca.gov.

Singing DBHS Counselor Sends Message of Hope in Weekly Videos

Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar High GLC Dave Desmond delivers weekly virtual sessions and music during COVID-19 quarantine.

Diamond Bar – Unprecedented times are challenging educators to go to great lengths for their students amid the global health crisis.

Take Diamond Bar High School grade level coordinator (GLC) Dave Desmond, for example.

For the past eight weeks, he has been sending video messages to homebound students using social media.

From his living room, Desmond presents counseling strategies in easily digestible bites, capped off by performing a song on his acoustic guitar.

“We’re still in coronavirus time and unfortunately it looks like we will be here a longer,” he said on April 9.

The 27-year veteran educator has literally opened up his home for the virtual sessions directed to his sophomore class and he doesn’t seem to mind.

“This isn’t something I would have done in the past,” he shared.

“I normally keep my private life to myself, but these are strange times.”

His only fear was playing and singing in front of the world.

“I thought, man, if there’s some way that me providing a little entertainment for my students will distract them from the general sadness of this time for a bit, well, that would be cool,” he said.

“And hopefully they’re listening to the counseling as well!”

His colleagues are also reaching out with regular communications via videos, newsletters, and emails.

“The other GLCs and I really miss seeing the kids and having that daily connection with our students,” he added.

Desmond said the team relies on seeing kids face-to-face and “counseling via the phone, email, or zoom is kind of tough.”

“This is just another way to let them know we care about them and are thinking about them.”

Each week, Desmond clicks through a PowerPoint presentation featuring topics normally discussed during the school year.

Themes have ranged from goal setting and college applications to financial aid and preparing for SATs.

Knowing that students are facing increased anxiety due to COVID-19, Desmond admitted that he’s also struggling while living in quarantine on the May 10 broadcast.

“Just like you, I’ve been having a tough time and I think it’s good for all of us to find ways to relieve that stress.”

With that, he began demonstrating how he’s been keeping busy around the house, beginning in the kitchen with a pink frosted cake he baked for Mother’s Day.

Next, he dashed to the dining room for a hand of gin rummy, a game he’s currently playing with his daughter.

“Break up the day by playing a game with your family,” he offered the teens.

“Hey, I just won – that was fun!”

He suggested using DBHS online mindfulness resources including meditation, listening to waterfalls, drawing, music, and even a koala cam.

“Doesn’t he look relaxed? Aren’t you more relaxed just watching this guy?”

Then Desmond pivoted to a doorway to demonstrate a few pull-ups, sprinted to the backyard to hit golf balls, and pull a few weeds.

“Maybe you can help your parents clean up the house a bit,” he suggested to the high schoolers.

Desmond even shared a weekend project he’s been working on.

“See this patch of dirt – it will soon be transformed into a putting green!”

Being sheltered-in-place is the time to set small goals each day including academic, physical and social activities, and finding a way to help the family, Desmond suggested.

“Make dinner or write a letter to grandma and grandpa.”

“But, one of my favorite things to do to manage stress is playing a tune,” he said wrapping up the segment.

And with that, he picked up his guitar and belted out “Everybody Hurts” by R.E.M.

Desmond coordinates his tunes with each video theme from a memorized playlist of about 50 songs, including “Where is My Mind” by the Pixies, “Midnight Special” by Credence Clearwater Revival, and “Help Me, Stranger” by Jack White of the Raconteurs.

“Hold on, Brahmas, we’re going to get through this!” he exclaimed with a fist pump to the camera.

His message during May’s Mental Health Awareness Month is for students to keep doing their best.

“Do your best to live your life with some sense of normality while staying safe, do your best to help your family and friends get through this odd, difficult time, and do your best to take care of yourself. There’s so much about this situation that is beyond our control, so focus on what you can control and be good to yourself and to everyone around you.”

On the Border To-Go Menu

STARTERS

BORDER SAMPLER [2000 CAL]

$17.49  – 

When you can’t pick just one! Chicken quesadillas, fajita steak nachos and mini chicken chimis.

STACKED NACHOS [2030 CAL]

$13.49  – 

Chips piled high with seasoned ground beef, refried beans and queso. Topped with lime crema, pico de gallo, pickled jalapeños and guacamole.

EMPANADAS [1110/1170 CAL]

$10.99  – 

Handmade pastries filled with mixed cheese & chicken tinga or seasoned ground beef. Served with our signature queso.

FIRECRACKER STUFFED JALAPEÑOS [920 CAL]

$10.99  – 

Six handmade, tempura-fried jalapeños filled with mixed cheese and chicken. Served with our signature queso.

GRANDE FAJITA NACHOS

Tostada chips topped with refried beans, fajita chicken or steak and melted mixed cheese. Guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo and pickled jalapeños served on the side.

$13.99  –  Chicken [1280 CAL]

$14.99  –  Steak [1410 CAL]

GUACAMOLE [240 CAL]

$9.99  – 

Made in small batches throughout the day.

GUACAMOLE LIVE!® [750 CAL]

$11.99  – 

Made fresh at your table with whole avocados, tomato, jalapeño, cilantro, red onion, lime and a pinch of salt.

GUAC/QUESO DUO [530 CAL]

$11.99  – 

The best of both worlds. Guacamole and a cup of queso.

SIGNATURE QUESO

Prepared in-house with tomatoes, green chiles, onions, cilantro, poblano & jalapeño peppers.

Make it Primo Style [add 50/100 cal]

Seasoned ground beef, guacamole and sour cream (add 2.00)

$6.99  –  Cup [300 cal]

$7.99  –  Bowl [480 cal]

BORDER QUESO

Our signature queso mixed with green chile sauce for an extra kick.

$7.99  –  Cup [170 CAL]

$8.99  –  Bowl [280 CAL]

BRISKET QUESADILLAS [1300 CAL]

$12.99  – 

Brisket with sautéed onions & pickled jalapeños. Served with jalapeño-BBQ sauce, fresh guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo.

FAJITA QUESADILLAS

Fajita chicken or steak with poblano & onion. Served with fresh guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo.

$13.49  –  Chicken [1190 CAL]

$14.49  –  Steak [1280 CAL]

TEXAS WINGS [880/810 CAL]

$13.99  – 

Breaded, crispy-fried wings tossed with jalapeño-BBQ or buffalo sauce. Served with celery sticks and ranch dressing.

SALAD & SOUP

FAJITA SALAD

Served sizzling on a fajita skillet. Mesquite-grilled chicken or steak and onions, topped tableside with a crisp blend of lettuce & shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, roasted corn, fresh avocado and queso fresco.

$13.99  –  Chicken [430 CAL]

$14.99  –  Steak [500 CAL]

TOSTADA SALAD [750-840 CAL]

$13.49  – 

Shredded or ground beef, or chicken tinga over a crisp blend of romaine, iceberg & cabbage, mixed cheese, fresh guacamole, sour cream sauce, pico de gallo and pickled jalapeños. Served in a crispy tortilla shell.

MANGO CHICKEN SALAD [380 CAL]

$13.99  – 

Mesquite-grilled chicken tossed with a crisp blend of lettuce & shredded cabbage, roasted corn, black beans, mango, jícama, pico de gallo, queso fresco and lime vinaigrette.

CHICKEN TORTILLA SOUP

Homemade chicken broth loaded with chicken tinga, rice, zucchini and Jack cheese, topped with fresh avocado and tortilla strips.

$7.99  –  Bowl [540 CAL]

$5.99  –  Cup [330 CAL]

HOUSE SALAD [250 CAL]

$6.99  – 

Served with choice of dressing.

ENCHILADAS

RANCHILADAS [1060 CAL]

$18.99  – 

An 8 oz. mesquite-grilled steak topped with ranchero sauce and melted Jack cheese, plus two hand-rolled cheese & onion enchiladas smothered in red chile sauce.

BORDER QUESO BEEF ENCHILADAS [440/510 CAL]

$12.99  – 

Two savory shredded or ground beef enchiladas topped with our border queso.

TOMATILLO ENCHILADAS [420/460 CAL]

$12.99  – 

Two spinach & mushroom or chicken tinga enchiladas with tomatillo sauce and pico de gallo. Served with cilantro lime rice.

ENCHILADAS SUIZAS [800 CAL]

$14.99  – 

Three hand-rolled chicken tinga enchiladas with tomatillo cream sauce and melted Jack cheese inside and out.

TACOS

SOUTHWEST CHICKEN TACOS

Mesquite-grilled chicken, cheddar cheese, creamy red chile sauce and fried onion strings in warm, hand-pressed flour tortillas.

$13.99  –  Two Tacos [1090 CAL]

$14.99  –  Three Tacos [1510 CAL]

DOS XX® FISH TACOS

Warm, hand-pressed flour tortillas with Dos XX beer-battered fish, creamy red chile sauce, shredded cabbage & carrots, mixed cheese and pico de gallo.

$13.99  –  Two Tacos [1090 CAL]

$14.99  –  Three Tacos [1510 CAL]

BRISKET TACOS

Shredded beef brisket, Jack cheese, fried onion strings and jalapeño-BBQ sauce in warm, hand-pressed flour tortillas.

$13.99  –  Two Tacos [850 CAL]

$14.99  –  Three Tacos [1250 CAL]

STREET-STYLE MINI TACOS

Three mini white corn tortillas with chicken or steak, sautéed onion, Jack cheese, fresh avocado, pico de gallo and roasted red chile salsa.

$12.49  –  Chicken [670 CAL]

$13.49  –  Steak [720 CAL]

GRILLED FISH TACOS DEL MAR [340 CAL]

$14.99  – 

Seasoned, mesquite-grilled whitefish brushed with lime-cilantro chimichurri, lime cabbage-carrot slaw and pico de gallo in two white corn tortillas.

CABO GRILLED SHRIMP TACOS [240 CAL]

$14.99  – 

Two white corn tortillas filled with chimichurri-grilled shrimp and lime cabbage-carrot slaw, topped with fresh pico de gallo and avocado.

FAJITAS

THE ULTIMATE FAJITA® [1680 CAL]

$23.99  – 

The ultimate combo of mesquite-grilled steak, chicken and shrimp, carnitas and sautéed vegetables.

MONTEREY RANCH CHICKEN [1320 CAL]

$18.99  – 

Your favorite mesquite-grilled chicken smothered with melted Jack cheese, crumbled bacon and ranch dressing.

BORDER SMART℠ CHICKEN [650 CAL]

$16.99  – 

Mesquite-grilled chicken with sautéed onions and red & green bell peppers. Served with black beans, white corn tortillas, pico de gallo and guacamole.

CLASSIC FAJITAS

$16.99  –  Portobello & Vegetables [830 CAL]

$17.99  –  Carnitas [1350 CAL]

$17.99  –  Grilled Chicken [950 CAL]

$18.99  –  Grilled Shrimp [1110 CAL]

$19.99  –  Grilled Steak [1050 CAL]

$19.99  –  Mix Two

Choose any 2 Classic Fajita styles.

SHRIMP SKEWER [50 CAL]

$3.99  – 

Add a shrimp skewer straight from the mesquite-wood grill.

BURRITOS & CHIMIS

THE BIG BORDURRITO®

A HUGE serving of fajita chicken or steak wrapped in a seared flour tortilla with Mexican rice, mixed cheese, black beans, caramelized onion & red pepper, pico de gallo and sour cream sauce.

$16.99  –  Chicken [1570 CAL]

$18.99  –  Steak [1750 CAL]

THREE-SAUCE FAJITA BURRITO

Fajita chicken or steak, Jack cheese, pico de gallo, sautéed onion & poblano, topped with ranchero sauce, sour cream sauce and our signature queso.

$15.49  –  Chicken [920 CAL]

$16.49  –  Steak [1100 CAL]

CLASSIC BURRITO [740-1010 CAL]

$14.49  – 

Shredded or ground beef, chicken tinga or carnitas, pico de gallo and cheese rolled in a flour tortilla smothered with red chile sauce, sour cream sauce, green chile sauce, ranchero sauce or our signature queso.

GRILLED SHRIMP BURRITO [2170 CAL]

$17.49  – 

A grilled flour tortilla with seasoned shrimp, melted Jack cheese, pico de gallo, corn, black beans, fresh avocado and cilantro lime rice. Served with Mexican rice, refried beans and a side of avocado ranch.

CLASSIC CHIMICHANGA [880-1130 CAL]

$14.49  – 

Our Classic Burrito fried crispy and smothered with red chile sauce, sour cream sauce, green chile sauce, ranchero sauce or our signature queso.

FAVORITES

CHIMICHURRI CHICKEN & SHRIMP [620 CAL]

$18.99  – 

Mesquite-grilled chicken breast brushed with lime-cilantro chimichurri, topped with pico de gallo and melted Jack cheese. Plus, a skewer of grilled chimichurri shrimp. Served with cilantro lime rice and sautéed vegetables.

GRILLED QUESO CHICKEN [860 CAL]

$16.49  – 

Simple and delicious, this perfectly seasoned mesquite-grilled chicken breast is topped with our signature queso and fresh sliced avocado. Served with sautéed vegetables and cilantro lime rice.

MEXICAN GRILLED CHICKEN [670/620 CAL]

$16.49  – 

Mesquite-grilled chicken breast topped with pico de gallo and tomatillo sauce or spicy salsa fresca. Served with sautéed vegetables and cilantro lime rice.

CARIBBEAN MANGO GRILLED FISH [640 CAL]

$17.99  – 

A seasoned, mesquite-grilled whitefish fillet topped with warm pico-mango salsa. Served with sautéed vegetables and cilantro lime rice.

CARNE ASADA [980 CAL]

$18.99  – 

An 8oz. marinated and seasoned mesquite-grilled steak served on a skillet with seasoned butter, sautéed vegetables and Mexican rice.

COMBOS

SUPERIOR DINNER [1150 CAL]

$16.99  – 

One crispy seasoned ground beef taco, one chicken enchilada with sour cream sauce, one cheese & onion enchilada with red chile sauce and a mini chicken chimi. Served with a side of queso.

CHILE RELLENO COMBO [820 CAL]

$13.99  – 

One Jack cheese-stuffed poblano, hand-battered and fried golden, and a carnitas enchilada with green chile sauce.

CREATE YOUR OWN

Choose two, three or four of your Mexican favorites.

CLASSICS

• Beef empanadas [510 cal]
• Chicken empanadas [480 cal]
• Mini chicken chimi [320 cal]
• Cheese chile relleno [510 cal] (add 1.00)
• Chicken chile relleno [510 cal] (add 2.00)

ENCHILADAS

• Shredded or ground beef with red chile sauce [250/280 cal]
• Chicken tinga with green chile or sour cream sauce [210/250 cal]
• Cheese & onion with red chile sauce [340 cal]
• Spinach & mushroom with sour cream sauce [220 cal]
• Carnitas with green chile sauce [250 CAL]

TACOS

• Shredded or ground beef [210-260 cal]
• Chicken tinga [210/200 cal]
• Carnitas [230-240 cal]
• Dos XX® fish [420 cal] (add 2.00)
• Brisket [390 cal] (add 2.00)
• Southwest chicken [420 cal] (add 2.00)

$14.49  –  Any 2

$15.49  –  Any 3

$16.49  –  Any 4

SOUP or SALAD

• Chicken tortilla soup [330 cal]
• House salad [220 cal]

BORDER BOWLS

Grilled chicken, steak, shrimp or portobello brushed with lime-cilantro chimichurri. Served with cilantro lime rice, black beans, bell peppers, queso fresco, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo and sliced avocado.

$12.49  –  Grilled Chicken [670 CAL]

$12.49  –  Grilled Portobello [580 CAL]

$13.49  –  Grilled Shrimp [660 CAL]

$13.49  –  Grilled Steak [720 CAL]

LUNCH

BORDER’S BEST LUNCH FAJITAS

A lunch-size portion of mesquite-grilled steak or chicken brought sizzling to your table. Served with warm flour tortillas, pico de gallo, sour cream, cheese, guacamole, Mexican rice and refried beans.

$12.99  –  Chicken [1330 CAL]

$13.99  –  Steak [1400 CAL]

QUESADILLA COMBO [850-1070 CAL]

$11.49  – 

A lunch-size chicken, steak, brisket or spinach & mushroom quesadilla served with pico de gallo, sour cream and guacamole, plus a cup of chicken tortilla soup or house salad.

Steak Quesadilla (add .50)

CREATE YOUR OWN

Pick any two or three. Served with Mexican rice (add 220 cal) and refried beans (add 220 cal). Black beans (add 200 cal) available upon request.

CLASSICS

• Beef empanadas [510 CAL]
• Chicken empanadas [480 CAL]
• Mini chicken chimi [320 CAL]
• Cheese chile relleno [510 CAL] (add 1.00)]
• Chicken chile relleno [510 CAL] (add 2.00)

ENCHILADAS

• Shredded or ground beef with red chile sauce [250/280 CAL]
• Chicken tinga with green chile or sour cream sauce [210/250 CAL]
• Cheese & onion with red chile sauce [340 CAL]
• Spinach & mushroom with sour cream sauce [220 CAL]
• Carnitas with green chile sauce [250 CAL]

SOUP OR SALAD

• Chicken tortilla soup [330 CAL]
• House salad [240 CAL]

TACOS (SOFT/CRISPY)

• Shredded or ground beef [210-260 CAL]
• Chicken tinga [210/200 CAL]
• Carnitas [240/230 CAL]
• Dos XX ® fish [420 CAL] (add 2.00)
• Brisket [390 CAL] (add 2.00)
• Southwest Chicken [420 CAL] (add 2.00)

$11.49  –  Any two

$12.99  –  Any three

LUNCH BURRITO [850-1070 CAL]

$12.49  – 

Shredded or ground beef, chicken tinga or carnitas, pico de gallo and cheese in a flour tortilla smothered with your choice of red chile sauce, sour cream sauce, green chile sauce, ranchero sauce or our signature queso. Served with Mexican rice and choice of beans.

LUNCH CHIMICHANGA [1190-1430 CAL]

$12.49  – 

Our Lunch Burrito fried crispy. Served with Mexican rice and choice of beans.

TOSTADA SALAD [750-840 CAL]

$11.49  – 

Shredded or ground beef, or chicken tinga over a crisp blend of romaine, iceberg & cabbage, mixed cheese, fresh guacamole, sour cream sauce, pico de gallo and pickled jalapeños. Served in a crispy tortilla shell.

PARTY PLATTERS

PARTY PACK (SERVES 10-12) [14940-15060 CAL]

$89.99  – 

Includes a mini chimichanga platter, small 5-layer dip (chilled), quart of queso, quart of salsa and tortilla chips.

SUPREME PARTY PACK (SERVES 10-12) [17300-17420 CAL]

$109.99  – 

Includes a mini chimichanga platter, small 5-layer dip (chilled), Texas wings with ranch dressing, quart of queso, quart of salsa and tortilla chips.

COMBO SUPREMO (SERVES 6-8) [6440-6550 CAL]

$58.99  – 

36 pieces. Empanadas, Texas wings, chicken mini quesadillas and firecracker stuffed jalapeños. Served with queso and ranch dressing.

CREATE YOUR OWN PLATTER (SERVES 6-8) [3680-8690 CAL]

24 pieces. Pick any two, three or four: empanadas, mini chimichangas, mini quesadillas, Texas wings with ranch dressing, chicken tenders or firecracker stuffed jalapeños. Served with queso.

$48.99  –  Any 3

$49.99  –  Any 2

$49.99  –  Any 4

MEXICAN SAMPLER (SERVES 6-8) [6620-6670 CAL]

$57.99  – 

24 pieces. Empanadas, mini chimichangas and chicken mini quesadillas. Served with queso.

MINI TACO PLATTER (SERVES 6-8) [2100-2500 CAL]

$29.99  – 

18 mini crispy taco shells filled with chicken tinga or seasoned ground beef, lettuce, mixed cheese and tomato. Served with tomatillo sauce and salsa.

MINI CHIMICHANGA PLATTER (SERVES 6-8) [6100-6720 CAL]

$36.99  – 

24 seasoned ground beef, chicken tinga, black bean & corn or spinach & mushroom mini chimichangas. Served with queso.

MINI QUESADILLA PLATTER (SERVES 6-8) [7590 CAL]

$39.99  – 

24 mini chicken quesadillas. Served with sour cream, pico de gallo and guacamole.

EMPANADA PLATTER (SERVES 6-8) [5210-5530 CAL]

$39.99  – 

24 handmade pasteries filled with mixed cheese and chicken tinga or seasoned ground beef. Served with queso.

5-LAYER DIP

Served chilled with layers of refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, mixed cheese and pickled jalapeños. Served with tortilla crisps.

$49.99  –  Large (Serves 15-20) [9450 CAL]

FAJITA WRAP PLATTER (SERVES 8-12) [6020 CAL]

$59.99  – 

16 six-inch fajita wraps filled with fajita chicken, mixed greens & cabbage, mixed cheese, pico de gallo and dressing. Served chilled.

MINI SOPAPILLA PLATTER [3030 CAL]

$19.99  – 

48 mini sopapillas with honey and chocolate sauce for dipping.

MINI BURRITOS BY THE DOZEN

$21.99

Black Bean & Corn [3120 CAL]

Brisket – with or without BBQ sauce [2750/2460 CAL]

Chicken Tinga [2810 CAL]

Seasoned Ground Beef [2870 CAL]

Spinach & Mushroom [2400 CAL]

EMPANADAS BY THE DOZEN [2370/2530 CAL]

$34.99  – 

Handmade pasteries filled with mixed cheese and chicken tinga or seasoned ground beef.

ENCHILADAS BY THE DOZEN [2580-4390 CAL]

$34.99  – 

Choose from seasoned ground beef, chicken tinga, cheese & onion or spinach & mushroom.

TACOS (CRISPY OR SOFT) BY THE DOZEN [2160-3100 CAL]

$34.99  – 

Choose from seasoned ground beef or chicken tinga. Served with lettuce, tomato and mixed cheese.

DESSERTS

BORDER BROWNIE SUNDAE [1340 CAL]

$7.99  – 

Rich chocolate & walnut brownie topped with vanilla ice cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce. Feeds up to four.

CARAMEL CHURROS [810 CAL]

$6.99  – 

Four traditional churros filled with warm caramel and dusted with cinnamon-sugar. Served with vanilla ice cream.

$4.99  –  Two Churros [360 CAL]

Served with vanilla ice cream.

SOPAPILLAS [1330 CAL]

$6.99  – 

Five Mexican pastries coated in cinnamon-sugar. Served with honey and chocolate sauce for dipping.

$3.99  –  Two Sopapillas [620/540 CAL]

With honey or chocolate sauce.

SEASONAL CHEESECAKE

Please ask for details.

KIDS MENU

ENCHILADA PLATE [660-830 CAL]

$5.99  – 

Pick your enchilada – beef, chicken or cheese. Served with Mexican rice and refried beans.

GRILLED CHICKEN SOFT TACO [700 CAL]

$6.99  – 

Mesquite-grilled chicken in a flour tortilla. Served with mixed cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, Mexican rice and refried beans.

BIG KID NACHOS [740 CAL]

$6.29  – 

Nachos amped up! Big nacho chips topped with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, mixed cheese and our famous queso.

$0.50  –  Sub fajita chicken [minus 30 CAL]

BUILD-YOUR-OWN MINI TACOS [810 CAL]

$6.49  – 

Calling all taco chefs! Three mini crispy taco shells, seasoned ground beef, mixed cheese, lettuce and tomatoes. Served with Mexican rice and refried beans.

CHEESE QUESADILLA [1210 CAL]

$5.29  – 

It’s like a grilled cheese, but with a tortilla cut into 4 triangles. Served with french fries.

$7.28  –  Add fajita chicken [add 80 CAL]

CORN DOG [580 CAL]

$5.49  – 

All of your hot dog goodness on a stick. Served with french fries.

BORDER CHICKEN STRIPS [820 CAL]

$6.99  – 

A fan favorite! Three all-white meat crispy chicken tenders. Served with french fries.

FAMILY MEALS

CLASSIC FAJITA FAMILY MEAL [7820-8220 CAL]

$61.99  – 

Mesquite-grilled chicken with onions & peppers, flour tortillas, pico de gallo, sour cream and cheese or guacamole.

TACO & CHEESE ENCHILADA FAMILY MEAL [5730-6160 CAL]

$35.99  – 

Five soft or crispy seasoned ground beef or chicken tinga tacos topped with lettuce, mixed cheese and tomato, and five cheese & onion enchiladas.

TACO FAMILY MEAL [4800-5620 CAL]

$35.99  – 

Ten soft or crispy seasoned ground beef or chicken tinga tacos topped with lettuce, mixed cheese and tomato.

ENCHILADA FAMILY MEAL [5150-6140 CAL]

$35.99  – 

Ten hand-rolled enchiladas. Choose from seasoned ground beef, chicken tinga, cheese & onion or spinach & mushroom.

KING RANCH ENCHILASAGNA FAMILY MEAL [5170-8270 CAL]

$35.99  – 

Layers of white corn tortillas, sour cream sauce, chicken tinga, poblano & onion, queso and melted mixed cheese. Served with a house salad and choice of dressing.

GREEN CHILE CARNITAS ENCHILASAGNA FAMILY MEAL [5810-8910 CAL]

$35.99  – 

Layers of white corn tortillas, green chile and sour cream sauce, carnitas and melted Jack cheese. Served with a house salad and choice of dressing.

VEGGIE ENCHILASAGNA FAMILY MEAL [4270-4960 CAL]

$35.99  – 

Layers of white corn tortillas, ranchero or tomatillo sauce, sauteéd vegetables, black beans, poblano & onion, queso and melted mixed cheese. Served with a house salad and choice of dressing.

ADD QUESO AND SOPAPILLAS TO ANY MEAL [3520 CAL]

$24.99  – 

Make it a 3 course meal and add a quart of queso and a mini sopapilla platter with honey and chocolate sauce.

BEVERAGES

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILIA

COCA-COLA® [180 CAL]

COFFEE [0 CAL]

DIET COKE® [0 CAL]

DR PEPPER® [140 CAL]

ICED TEA [0-110 CAL]

JUICE [30-150 CAL]

MILK [170 CAL]

MINUTE MAID® LEMONADE [150 CAL]

SPRITE® [150 CAL]

STRAWBERRY LEMONADE [210 CAL]

Centro Basco: Menu and Temporary Hours of Operation

Did You Know?: 3 Ways to Simplify Your Holidays

Mother and daughter baking. Photo Courtesy (c) Jacob Lund / stock.Adobe.com
Photo Courtesy: (c) Jacob Lund / stock.Adobe.com

By Statepoint

It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the busyness of the holiday season — from perfecting your home décor to searching for gifts for everyone on your list to creating a delicious holiday menu.

To help simplify the holidays, Dollar General is offering easy tips, so you can spend more time enjoying the most magical time of the year.

Deck the Halls

Get festive this season by creating a holiday wonderland in your home. Pick a color theme like red and green or blue and silver — whatever best fits your taste. Carry the theme throughout your home as you decorate the tree, holiday table, mantle and gifts. Consider adding a wreath to greet guests as soon as they arrive, as well as candles. With varieties like salted caramel and amber spice, those from Dollar General’s private brand trueliving will capture the scents of the season. Small touches like a table runner or a floral centerpiece can also make your home feel like the perfect holiday escape during this busy season.

Holiday Meal Prep

Cooking for a big crew can certainly be stressful. This year, use digital recipes to help you plan for the big event. Holiday sweets are always a favorite, so consider gifting your favorite desserts. If you plan to spend a lot of time prepping for a big holiday party or just a special dinner for your family, don’t forget the snacks to tide everyone over as you await the main course. For snacking you can feel great about, consider wholesome choices like roasted almonds or granola with less sugar.

Gift-Giving

The holidays are the perfect time to gather with friends and loved ones to exchange presents in celebration of the season. If you’re worried about finding something affordable for everyone, consider shopping at a discount retailer, like Dollar General. With deals throughout the store on picture frames, books, candles, coffee mugs and more, you can treat everyone on your list without breaking the bank. Plus, they are offering an instant 25 percent savings on any qualifying toy purchase of $75 or more through December 24, 2018. By downloading the store’s app, you can access DG Digital coupons. New customers automatically receive a digital coupon for $1 off their first purchase of $1.01 or more.

Don’t forget the giftwrap! Get creative with your gift trimmings by choosing a unique theme for each person on your list. With so many wrapping paper, gift bag and ribbon options, you can make every gift as special as the person receiving it.

This season, keep your sights on the essentials. Simplify your shopping by creating a signature theme for home décor, finding deals on gifts for everyone on your list, and baking up something easy and delicious for the whole crew. Plan ahead this year and enjoy the extra time celebrating the season with friends and family.