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Texas’ Official State Sport
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 Rodeo season is already in full swing in the Lone Star State. Look for the Texas Department of Agriculture booths at several of the upcoming rodeos across Texas, including: the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, Rodeo Austin and Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show & Rodeo. To get you in the spirit, here are some fun facts on Texas rodeos.
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The world’s first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas, on July 4, 1883.
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Rodeo was designated the official state sport of Texas in 1997.
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The word rodeo, borrowed from Spanish cowboys, comes from the Spanish verb “rodear,” meaning to surround. Before the word became popular, rodeos were referred to as “cowboy competitions.”
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Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has contributed over $330 million in scholarships serving about 20,000 students since it started granting scholarships in 1957.
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The Texas High School Rodeo Association is a non-profit organization that sponsors more than 125 high school rodeos throughout Texas each year.
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Many rodeos in Texas feature Mutton Busting, a competition similar to bull riding, but for younger children in which they ride or race sheep.
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Prepare to Meet the Commissioner
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 We are extremely proud of our new Commissioner here at the Texas Department of Agriculture and we thought you’d enjoy getting to know him a little bit better. We recently spent time with Commissioner Sid Miller at his ranch in Stephenville. He shared lots of stories about his life growing up in Comanche County. The Commissioner told us about meeting his wife of 37 years and how his many years in the agricultural business have prepared him for his role as leader of TDA. You can watch videos of these interviews on our Facebook page as we roll them out, along with articles in this e-zine in the next few months.
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As Quail Hunting Season Comes to an End, Give Texas Quail Farms A Call
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 Texas Quail Farms has become the largest inspected quail processing plant in Texas. Founded in 2003 by Todd Smith, this Lockhart company specializes in a wide variety of quail products. The farm does it all with one goal in mind: Supporting the local community and Lone Star economy.
The company offers its “Texas Prime Quail,” which was developed through genetic selection by Texas A&M University. It is a low-fat, low-sodium alternative to other proteins available on the market. The birds are claimed to be “bigger, more flavorful and juicy.” In contrast to mass produced quail operations, these birds are not pumped with artificial brine solution that add water weight. Instead, you’ll find fast growing, heavy and large-breasted birds with enhanced meat characteristics. Plus, Texas Quail Farms produces quail that has a lighter color and more appealing texture than most other quail produced in the industry.
The farm bolsters sustainable production solutions that also allow them to maintain high standards of quality and control of the birds’ environment.
“We treat our animals with dignity and care,” said Smith. “Using high quality feed, abundant space to thrive and a clean environment, we produce the best premium birds in North America.”
Texas Quail Farms also prides itself of being an avid supporter of its local community.
“We support our local economy,” boasts Smith. “We purchase locally. We hire locally. We raise birds locally. We also support the local chapters of the Boy Scouts of America. We want to help the local families and economy by providing dignified job opportunities and supporting local businesses.”
The wide variety of superior quail products and local production methods guarantees Texas Quail Farms produces some of the highest quality birds and gourmet specialties, like bacon-wrapped breasts and legs.
You can find their quail in some of Texas’ finest restaurants, like fellow GO TEXAN members Jack Allen’s Kitchen and Quality Seafood Market. Check out their website to order quail online and find unique quail recipes.
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Just Add Water: Aquaponics Systems USA
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 Aquaponics Systems USA is a small company with a mission as big as Texas. Founder Steve Sumrow defines that mission as: “Growing to change the world.” This San Antonio based company strives to make a difference one step at a time, offering their knowledge and expertise to provide the public with an easy and environmentally conscious alternative to small-scale crop production. Their self-sustaining systems are available in a variety of custom designs that help you grow fresh produce right at home.
Founded in 2011, Aquaponics Systems USA is expanding rapidly, due in part to the rising demand for sustainable food options. Not only is the food produced fresh, but it’s grown in a closed system that needs very little input from outside sources.
The main concept is built on the idea of circulating water through a fish tank, where it runs in through a bio-filter called a “grow bed” and then returns back into the tank. The nitrogenous waste produced from the fish provides the nutrients to aid in plant growth and development. As the plants take in nutrients from the fish water, the water is filtered and recycled back into the system. Then, it’s ready to be used again.
From eliminating the need for fertilizers, soil amendments and weeding to using about one-tenth the amount of water as traditional methods of production, the benefits of an aquaponics system are limitless. Aquaponics is a hands-off approach to growing food that can provide produce year-round.
Aquaponics is a proud GO TEXAN member.
Want a close up look at how Aquaponics Systems work? Check them out at the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo on Feb. 21 at 3 p.m., as well as at the Backyard Basics Expo for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Services at Madison High School on March 28.
If you can't make it to either of these live demonstrations, check them out on their website.
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BeeBop Books: Big Little Books for Early Texas Readers
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 Debbie Reece was inspired by actual events in her son’s life to create BeeBop Book Publications. In 2009, Reece started BeeBop Books, based off her son’s nickname: BeeBop. The series of illustrated children’s books focuses on helping children “let their light shine and be themselves,” said Reece.
“I decided to start my own business because I was compelled to share these stories with others; not just friends and family, but with people all over the nation,” said Reece. “The stories about my son's experiences are ones that most elementary-aged children also experience.”
Reece introduced her first book The Christmas Pumpkin in 2009. The book has sold more than 15,000 copies nationwide and received various national children book awards. The family-friendly content and motivational storyline is recognized by the Dove Family Seal of Approval. Reece released her second book, The Worst Day Ever, in September 2014. The story is based upon her son’s experience at school one day and promotes the message that you’ll always have some to hug and love you, regardless of how bad your day goes. Children enjoy the interactive coloring pages at the end of each story.
BeeBop Books is strongly involved with literacy programs in rural schools and public libraries. The company commits a percentage of its book sales and donations to numerous schools and communities throughout the state of Texas. Reece actively participates in live story-telling and book reading events across the nation. Her presence is well-known at the State Fair of Texas in the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Food and Fiber Pavilion.
Reece’s work is inspiring and creative for both readers and those considering publishing their own work someday. Her passion for child growth and development creates a strong connection with her diverse audience. For more information regarding BeeBop Publications, visit their website.
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McHugh Tea Room:
A Tea Room with a Modern Twist
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 When it comes to creating a wonderful memory with fabulous friends and delicious dishes in Houston, this is the spot! McHugh Tea is the first tea room in the history of Bellaire and has quickly become a gem in the heart of the city.
This family-owned and operated business is not your granny’s tea room with doilies, lace and flowered wallpaper. This place was designed for the 21st century and offers a modern twist to suit all ages. If you are a tea lover, you’re in luck! McHugh Tea boasts more than 60 different organic teas, a menu based on locally-grown produce and 100-year-old family recipes.
“I couldn’t imagine having this success without our GO TEXAN suppliers and supporters,” said Kim McHugh, owner of McHugh Tea. McHugh frequents local markets and depends on GO TEXAN farmers for several ingredients in her daily menu.
GO TEXAN supporters often dine at McHugh Tea to enjoy delicacies such as tea-infused blackened chicken, 21 different scones (including gluten-free), freshly-baked buttermilk pecan, apple-cranberry, lemon and peach pies, and cookies like McHugh’s famous Earl Gray butter cookies that are infused with organic tea.
Planning a baby shower, bridal shower, birthday party or other special event? Tea rooms are all the rage, and McHugh’s has become a go-to place for custom parties. McHugh Tea offers the perfect environment to impress your guests.
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Panna Cotta with Cranberry, Golden Raisin and Salted and Roasted Pumpkin Seed Compote
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 Here's a delicious recipe from GO TEXAN member Pignetti's, featuring tasteful seasonings like brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla and nutmeg with cranberries, raisins and pumpkin seeds. Pignetti's was featured in last month’s issue of the Go Local. GO TEXAN. E-zine.
Panna Cotta Ingredients:
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2 ¼ tsp.
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Unflavored powdered gelatin
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¾ cup
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Whole milk
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1 ¾ cups
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Heavy cream
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¼ cup
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Dark brown sugar, packed
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1 tsp.
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Kosher salt
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¾ tsp.
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Ground ginger
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½ tsp.
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Pure vanilla extract
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½ tsp.
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Ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp.
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Freshly grated nutmeg
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¾ cup
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Canned pure pumpkin purée
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Panna Cotta Preparation:
1. In a small bowl, whisk the gelatin with ¼ cup milk and set aside.
2. Whisk the cream, ½ cup milk, brown sugar, salt, ginger, vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat until just beginning to boil.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in the softened gelatin.
4. Whisk in the pumpkin, and then strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
5. Divide among six 6-ounce ramekins.
6. Refrigerate until firm to the touch, covering with plastic wrap once cool. The mixture should be refrigerated for at least 4 or up to 48 hours.
7. Unmold the panna cotta by dipping the bottom of each ramekin in hot water for a few seconds and then run a paring knife around the edge all the way to the bottom to loosen it.
8. Cover with a dessert plate and invert, give it a good downward shake, and then remove the ramekin.
9. Serve topped with the compote and drizzle with white chocolate sauce.
Compote Ingredients:
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1 cup
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Whole cranberry sauce
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1 cup
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Orange marmalade
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½ cup
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Dried cranberries
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½ cup
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Golden grape raisins
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½ cup
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Roasted and salted pumpkin seeds
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Compote Preparation:
1. Heat cranberry sauce and orange marmalade in a small pan on a stove with a little water added to loosen.
2. After it simmers slightly, let it cool then add remaining berries and seeds. Mix together.
3. Reserve at room temperature for topping.
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Turning Your Dollar "Green"
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 As coffee culture expands throughout Texas, Katz Coffee, a Houston based roasting company, is right there to meet Texans’ needs. Avi Katz founded the company in 2003, and it has been progressing rapidly as a GO TEXAN member ever since by providing a distinguished taste and reliable source for good coffee. Noted for its integrity, Katz Coffee is continuously involved in philanthropy. Katz Coffee promotes three different blends, each with a special partnership with a different non-profit organization. The company donates 50 cents per pound of coffee sold. Current partner organizations include the Bat Conservation International, Friends of Enchanted Rock and the Buffalo Bayou Partnership.
Katz Coffee offers an assortment of flavors and options, from dark roasts to low acidity roasts, all at affordable and competitive prices. Coffee fans and gurus alike are taking to Katz’s Coffee and spreading the word. You’ll find this truly Texan coffee making its way into hotels, restaurants and coffee houses in Houston, San Antonio and Austin.
Katz coffee is sold online or can be purchased ground or as whole-beans from H-E-B, Central Market and Whole Foods Market. It’s also served by the cup in a number of different locations. Click here to find a location near you.
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Jacksonville: A Bright Star in East Texas
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 Jacksonville is home to some of Texas’ most breathtaking sunsets and views. On a clear day, you may even be able to see Louisiana from the popular scenic area, “Love’s Lookout.” Rolling hills, stunning pines and majestic landscapes conceal this quaint East-Texas gem.
Jacksonville offers a variety of outdoor activities, antique shops, specialty boutiques, fine dining and a bed and breakfasts that combine together to make Jacksonville a destination for relaxation. The city also is home to state-of-the-art healthcare facilities and fitness centers.
The community is known for its numerous annual events and warm Texas hospitality. Jacksonville was once coined the “Tomato Capital of the World” and is currently the record holder for the World's Largest Bowl of Salsa at 2,672 pounds. From the World Famous Tomato Fest to the Tops in Texas Rodeo, there is always an event in Jacksonville for you to enjoy.
If you are looking to get away, about three miles from downtown Jacksonville, you will find Lake Jackson. The lake consists of 1,325 acres of water and is surrounded by beautiful homes and East Texas scenery. It is ranked as No. 9 for top largemouth bass fishing in East Texas.
Come experience the beauty and relaxation of East Texas’ star and see why Jacksonville is a GO TEXAN Certified Retirement Community.
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Spot the GO TEXAN Mark Challenge
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Want a fun way to share the best things in Texas with the world? It’s easy!
GO TEXAN uses social media tools like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to post GO TEXAN events, share member news and increase awareness of the wide-variety of products grown and made right here in the Lone Star State.
Challenge: If you spot the GO TEXAN mark, let us know. Send us a picture of the mark on a product, sign or printed materials, and tell us where you saw it. Send us your photos using the GO TEXAN Twitter hashtag (#GOTEXAN), so we can easily retweet your message, or send us an e-mail.
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Launched in 1999 by the Texas Department of Agriculture, GO TEXAN, with its signature mark in the shape of Texas, celebrates, promotes and supports the business savvy and plainspoken grit Texas agriculture is known for throughout the world. Whether it’s grown, sewn or served up on a plate, more than 26 million Texans shop, travel and dine out in support of Texas businesses, agriculture and communities looking for the GO TEXAN mark to light the way. To learn more about the GO TEXAN program, call (877) 99-GOTEX or visit the GO TEXAN website.
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Volume 4 Issue 6:
In This Issue
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Visit the GO TEXAN online store for great gift ideas to show off your Lone Star pride.
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