Grape Basil Martini

Servings: 1 3 basil leaves, torn, plus 1 full leaf for garnish 5 green Grapes from California, halved, plus 2 whole grapes for garnish 2 ounces gin 1/4 ounce sweet muscat wine I ounce lemon juice 1 ounce simple syrup ice In cocktail shaker, muddle basil and grapes with gin.

Fresh sips and apps to celebrate the season

FAMILY FEATURES For many, the hallmark of the holiday season is time with cherished loved ones, and there are few better places to spend those special moments together than gathered around a beautiful seasonal spread.

BIG FISH BITE BEST IN THE WINTER

A couple weeks ago, you might have read my column where I detailed an actionpacked striper fishing trip on Lake Texoma with Striper Express guide Chris Carey. Edgar and David Cotton and I enjoyed some action-packed catching under huge flocks of sea gulls that day.

FINANCIAL FOCUS

Have you ever thought about how much you have to protect? Between your family, your finances, your independence and your legacy, it can be quite a lot — and that’s why it’s important to have the right protection plan in place.

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Causes Several Mortality Events in Texas Birds

The National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) confirmed the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in multiple locations throughout the state. Disease experts indicate that HPAI is circulating among wild birds in Texas as waterbirds and waterfowl are on their wintering grounds.

Texas 4-H Foundation Receives Largest Single Grant

The Texas 4-H Foundation received a transformative $700,000 grant from the Adam R. Scripps Foundation, marking a significant milestone in their shared mission of empowering Texas youth.

Irving Based Scouting America Receives $30 million Grant from Lilly Endowment to Build Character in the Nation’s Young People

Scouting America, the nation’s foremost youth program of character development and valuesbased leadership training, has been awarded a grant of $30 million from Lilly Endowment Inc. to help build the character of the nation’s young people.

Ask Aunt B

My family’s political views clash with mine, and it’s causing major tension during holidays. Is there a way to keep the peace without feeling like I’m compromising my values? Dear Politically Uncomfortable, I can feel the tension here, and you’re not alone.

What Would You Change In The New Year?

“I would like to change my bedtime on New Year’s Eve,” says Tyler, 11. “I usually go to bed at 10 p.m., but I would like to stay up all night. I would have a great time because we would first party, second play video games and third eat a lot!”

Did You Know? Retirement

A high cost of living and advancements in medicine that have contributed to longer life expectancies would seemingly compel individuals to work longer, but data indicates the average professional is retiring shortly after turning 60.