By Linda Elissalde
There are many world famous cuisines. However, for some epicureans a whole fresh, fried flounder is hard to beat. We were thrilled when our friend Raquel Silverberg treated us to that wonderful delicacy at Stingaree Restaurant. We eagerly awaited for the door to open at 11:00 am. There was no need for a menu. Roxey cheerfully took our enthusiastic orders. It seemed no time at all until each one of us had a crispy vertebrate in front of us. The side dishes and gumbo were grand too. Manager Andrew Otpe checked to be sure that everything was just right.

Even with our favorite meal, there was more to be enjoyed. We became intrigued by a bunch of tables being placed together nearby. A large party must be arriving. Soon 15 bikers began taking their places. This was Lone Star Rally weekend in Galveston. These bikers came to the peninsula because of Stingaree’s reputation. It was interesting that all, male and female, had the same insignia on the back of their jackets. They were a most happy and friendly group.

In conversation with spokesperson Bethany “Shedevil” Diaz, we learned that this was the COMBAT VETERANS MOTORCYCLE ASSOCIATION, TX. They are an Association, not a Motorcycle Club, of Combat Veterans from all branches of the United States Armed Forces who ride motorcycles as a hobby. As a registered 501(C)(19) veterans’ charity, their mission is to support and protect those who have defended our country and our freedoms. Focus is to provide assistance and help to individual veterans, veteran care facilities, other veteran organizations and registered charities. They sponsor, and participate, in veteran related motorcycle and other charity events each year. In addition, the association donates to various veteran causes. Membership is comprised of Full Members with verified combat service, non-combat military service Supporter Members with a strong dedication to helping veterans, and Auxiliary Members who are spouses of Full and Support members. As Bethany explained, “We may be in a geographic area; We do not claim territory. We do not have a club house. The patch on our back is one piece.”

What a perfect luncheon. Raquel treated us to our favorite fish dish, and we were honored to be near such a generous group of motorcycle riders. You just cannot have a better mix than dining with FRESH FLOUNDER AND MORE!

[LCE: Nov-4-2024]