Coastal Bend Traveler

Coas tal BendFREE December 2011

Vol. 1, Issue 4

travelerStop and Stay a While - diScover the treaSurerS in the coaStal Bend

The Beauty of Lake Corpus Christi

Camping Fishing Birding

About Us...At the Coastal Bend Traveler, our

mission is to highlight the tre-mendous amount of

attributes, events, attractions and people that make our lives special. Our goal is simple: to encourage tourists to visit and stay a while as well as show-casing to local residents what

wonders they may experience in their own backyard. By working closely with local event organiz-ers, Chambers of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureaus, the Coastal Bend Traveler pro-

vides up-to-date information on area happenings in each monthly

edition as well as around-the-clock updates online at www.

coastalbendtraveler.com. The Coastal Bend is a unique, special place, and the Traveler

tells our story better than anyone.

Nicole D. PerezOwner/Co-Publisher

Anthony D. MorrisOwner/Co-Publisher

Brenda PoeSales/Graphics

Lois StephensNews/Graphics

Larry & Lanette SmallwoodConsultants

Ph: 361- 668-NEWS(6397)

Fax: 361- 664-3875www.coastalbendtraveler.com

Owned/Operated by Real Hometown Media, LLC

2 - Coastal Bend Traveler - December 2011

See you at the Renassaince Faire

With the Christmas season fast upon us, there are many events being held throughout the Coastal Bend to celebrate. It may be hard to decide which event to attend - Winterfest in Beeville, La Posada de Kings-ville, 12 Days of Christmas in Alice, Las Luces del Mar in Corpus Christi. But in reality, there is no wrong choice. All promise to be great family entertainment.

There is one event in particular in December I don’t plan on missing. It’s not tied to Christmas, but looks to be quite fun - the Renaissance Faire in Ingleside. I have a great fascination with that period of European history, and yes, I will likely be in Renaissance garb - bodice, robe, hoop and all. But, I’m not sure I will be able to talk anyone else in the family into joining me in my medieval finery. Hope to see you there!

also this issue

On the cover...It’s perfect camping weather. Like the outdoors? Head out to Lake Corpus Christi.

Page 6

Times of OldIngleside is hostings its annual Renassaince Faire Dec. 10 and 11. Enjoy swords shows and live entertainment.

Page 4

It’s starting to look a lot like....Christmas-themed events abound - from Corpus Christi to Kingsville and Alice.

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Hear Ye, Hear Ye!Renaissance Faire Dec. 10, 11

Modern day stresses getting you down? Why not im-

merse yourself for the weekend in the flavor of Olde Europe, as the Ingle-side Renaissance Faire lifts the shroud of time and takes South Texas back to the days of yore?

The Faire is in its 13th consecutive year, and re-turns to life the golden age of the Renaissance through the arts, crafts, folklore, music, dance, food and en-tertainment of the time on Dec. 10 and 11. The Lords and Ladies of The Shire of Seawinds (web.seawinds.an-steorra.org/) will be dressed to the hilt in period finery to create an ambiance of the past.

Sword fighting and hilarious comedy acts as well as archery demon-strations and contests, blacksmithing demonstra-tions, Celtic music, fairies, commoners, belly dancers, court jesters and much more will add to the enjoy-able atmosphere surround-ing the Faire.

Paula Cloud-Hudson, LMT, aka Lady AriManna, an herbalist and brewer of the Shire of Seawinds, has been a long-time partici-pant in the Faire, first as a spectator, then as a mem-ber of the Shire and for the past two years she has

been a planner, helping to bring the faire to fruition.

“My husband and I were into the medieval things even prior to join-ing SCA (the Society for Creative Anachronism). I enjoy the faire because I enjoy being able to share with other people the diversity of the SCA - the artisans, the various types of arts and sciences, actu-ally, and the weaponry,” she said.

The Celtic-based musi-cal interactive spectacle Tartanic will make an ap-pearance, and bring their irreverent, high-energy performance to the mix. Tartanic’s frontman and founder Walter describes the group, “Imagine one dancer, six drums, six drones, 18 notes, fast fin-gers, high comedy, flying bagpipes, taste-defying stunts and scorching hot music played at over 120 beats per minute with

driving speed and high-volume, all brought to you by five men without pants.”

Visit www.tartanic.net for a taste of what to expect.

The Walking Tree Man Cliff Spenger will be seen moving through the faire grounds. Spenger created and performs his version of the Green Man as a 12-foot-tall Walking Tree Man. The costume weighs more than 100 lbs., takes 10 minutes to put on, and is the result of many days

of work including 400 hours of hand sewing.

The Green Man is an ancient symbol for man’s unity with nature, and is usually symbolized by a face with leaves emerging from the mouth, so it was a natural extension to cre-ate him as a tree. Spenger travels all over North America, delighting young and old alike with his performance. You can see him on the Web at www.walkingtreeoflife.com.

If you suddenly see

The Walking Tree Man - Cliff Spenger - is a regular sight at the Renaissance Faire in Ingleside.

J INGLESIDE, TEXAS

u WHERE: Live Oak Park, 2065 Parkview Place, Inglesideu COST: $3 Adults; Children under age 3 enter free.u TIME: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days

By Lois Stephens

December 2011 - Coastal Bend Traveler - 5

flames shooting into the air, it doesn’t mean the faire is burning. It’s prob-ably just Tribal Circus Ac-robatics, breathing fire as they entertain the crowd.

They are, according to their Facebook page, “art-ists and entertainers spe-cializing in the circus arts. Our skills include Aerial Acrobatics, juggling, rope walking, stilt walking, acro balance, fire eating/breathing, rolla-bolla, hand balancing, choreog-raphy, costume design, and over all coolness.”

The ladies of Incanta-tion (www.incantationbel-lydance.com), the Texas Gypsys (www.texasgyp-sys.com) and Hourglass (hourglassbellydance.com) belly dance troupes also will perform throughout the weekend, sharing their

unique, graceful expres-sion of body movement and musical interpretation.

Vendors and their wares scheduled include the Li-ons Club and Boy Scouts,

who will be providing food. Handcrafted jewelry as well as books, clothing, perfumes, lotions, balms

Paula Cloud-Hudson, AKA Lady AriManna, is an herbal-ist. She also helps organize the Faire each year.

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED

361-592-8516 • 1501 Highway 77, Kingsville, Texas • www.kingsvilletexas.comKingsville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Dec. 3:•Breakfast with Santa, 8 to 10 a.m., Downtown• La Posada Bake Off,

10 a.m. to noon, Downtown• Children’s Festival,

10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Downtown• Parade of Lights, 7 p.m., Downtown

• Teen Dance, 6:30 to 10 p.m., Boys & Girls Club (Kenedy & 17th)

• Holiday Bazaar, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Community Life Center (5th & Yoakum)

Dec. 4:• Holiday Bazaar, 1 to 5 p.m., Community

Life Center (5th & Yoakum)• Tour of Homes, 2 to 4 p.m.,

Call 361-522-2741• Community Choir Program, 2 p.m., First Baptist Church

Dec. 10:•Holiday Story Time, 10:30 to

11:30 a.m., Robert J. Kleberg Library• A Christmas Pageant,

7 p.m., First Baptist Church

Dec. 11:• A Christmas Pageant, 10:45 a.m.,

First Baptist Church

Dec. 18:• Children’s Program, 10:45 a.m., First

Baptist Church

La Posada de Kingsville

This year’s theme is “A Red, White, & Blue Christmas”

The excitement

and parade

start at 7 p.m.

Dec. 3!

See FAIRE, Page 18


It’s Camping Weather

With cooler temperatures finally here, it’s a great

time to pack up your tent and head to Lake Corpus Christi State Park.

This can be a great time to visit the park in Mathis, Texas. The fishing is good as the water temperatures gradually begin to cool down, and the fish stay active throughout the day, even with lower lake

levels. The swimming area can also still be popular this time of year. This tran-sition to cooler weather also tends to mark the beginning of the camping season.

Interim Superintendent of Lake CC State Park David Aviles, who has worked there two and a half years, says the major-ity of traffic right now is from youth and church groups.

“The county has im-posed a burn ban,” Aviles said. “So we promote gas grills, which are allowed.”

The burn ban says no charcoal or wood fires are allowed. Aviles said gas grills can offer the same benefits.

“With the cool crisp temperatures moving in, campers are looking to take advantage of 10 shelters that were recently upgraded to include a/c

and heating,” Aviles said. “That has helped our num-bers tremendously.”

The park can be busy year-round with campers, but fall through spring is the peak camping season. Daytime temperatures this time of year are nearly perfect, usually in the 70s to 80s. Overnight tem-peratures are typically in the 50s to 60s. Birding and wildlife viewing is best enjoyed during this time.

Lake Corpus Christi State Park continues improvementsJ MATHIS, TEXAS

Story by Brenda Poe


For more information, call361664-3454

or visit us online at www.alicetxchamber.org

Come celebrate

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The 12 Days of Christmas

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P.O. Box 1167Mathis, TX 78368(361) 547-2635

Park closes at 10 p.m. except for overnight guests.

Swim at your own risk. NO LIFEGUARD on duty.

In accordance with Texas State Depository Law, this publication is available at the Texas State Publications Clearinghouse and/or Texas Depository Libraries.© 2011 Texas Parks and Wildlife Department PWD MP P4502-065E (2/11)

Lake Corpus ChristiState Park

Legend:

Proud Sponsor of Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs

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Please Note:• CHECK OUT time is 2 p.m. or renew permit by 9 a.m.

(pending site availability).• Public consumption or display of any alcoholic beverage

is prohibited.• GRAY WATER AND BLACK WATER MUST BE

DISCHARGED ONLY AT DUMP STATIONS.• Pets must be kept on leash. Please pick up after them.• No radios or speakers shall be used at a volume which

can be heard beyond the immediate campsite, picnic site or vehicle.

• Gathering of firewood is prohibited.

Park Reservations

(512) 389-8900texasstateparks.org

3

CrappieLimit: 25 per daySize: 10 in. min.

White BassLimit: 25 per daySize: 10 in. min.

Largemouth Bass

Limit: 5 per daySize: 14 in. min.

Catfish (Flathead)Limit: 5 per daySize: 18 in. min.

Catfish (Blue and Channel)Limit: 25 per day (aggregate)

Size: 12 in. min.

Striped BassLimit: 5 per daySize: 18 in. min.

Lake Corpus Christi

There are historic build-ings at the park as well for visitors who enjoy perus-ing older structures, like the “castle” which housed the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

The temperatures dur-ing January and February will drop into the lower digits on occasion when a cold front is moving through, otherwise the mild winters in this part of the state are terrific.

“The fishing is good, but our water levels are still pretty low,” Aviles said. “We are 12 feet below our normal water level. That is playing a role in the fishing, however we still have swimming areas available as well as boat-ing, skiing and canoeing.”

Lake CC State Park features a new birding site within the park for enthu-siasts.

“We are also working on a new bike trail that we hope to have finished soon,” Aviles said. “There is no hiking at this point, but we have a little bit of everything for the family here.”

The Texas State Parks Pass is an annual pass that includes many benefits, including unlimited visits without paying the daily entrance fee, as well as dis-

counts on camping, park store merchandise and equipment rentals.

Campsites offer a va-riety of amenities includ-ing sewer, electric, water hookups, a/c and heater, walk-in tent sites, hike-in/backpacking sites and boat-to sites.

Lodging and other indoor overnight facilities: bed and breakfasts; cabins; limited use cabins; lodges and San Solomon Springs Court; group barracks and bunkhouses; group dining and recreation halls (that

allow overnight use); yurts (enhanced shelters); and screened shelters.

Admission is $4 for 13 years and older, with kids 12 and under free. Admission to the park allows for fishing without a license.

“It is perfect weather for camping,” Aviles said. “We have been pretty busy, with lots of reserva-tions for Thanksgiving.”

You can reserve a camp-ing site online at www.tpwd.state.tx.us. The park is on Park Road 25, four

miles southwest of Mathis, off State Highway 359, and 35 miles northwest of Corpus Christi.

Lake Corpus Christi State Park, a 356-acre park, located in San Patricio, Jim Wells and Live Oak coun-ties, southwest of Mathis, was leased from the City of Corpus Christi in 1934 (until 2032) and was opened in 1934.

Many of the park’s facilities were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s.

The 22nd Annual La Posada de Kings-ville once again promises to be a month of fun-filled family activities that will not disappoint area resi-

dents.La Posada officially kicked off with the

Ranch Hand Breakfast on King Ranch in November, and events continue through Dec. 18.

December 3 will be a day and night filled with many enjoyable Christmas activities.

The annual Parade of Lights is at 7 p.m. Dec. 3 in downtown Kingsville. This year’s theme is “A Red, White & Blue Christmas,” which should inspire a variety of performers and festive interpretations.

“We encourage you to come view our lo-cal talent in a variety of floats, bands, musi-cians, service groups, horses, trucks and Santa,” organizers said.

Prior to the parade, the annual La Posada Bake-Off will take place Dec. 3. Bring in a batch of your favorite pan de polvo recipe to be judged by local bakers. It is always a tough competition for pan de polvo. There are three categories - young bakers up to age 8, junior bakers from ages 9 to 14 and adults.

Drop off begins at 10 a.m. Judging begins at 10:30 a.m. and results will be announced at noon. Call Amanda Cherry at 361-595-4832 for information.

Breakfast with Santa is from 8 to 10 a.m. at Linda’s Main Street Cafe in downtown Kingsville. The event is hosted by the TAMUK Cisneros Center for Young Children staff. Children will delight in sharing their wish lists, taking photos with Santa and eat-ing breakfast with Santa. Call Lisa Turcotte

at 361-593-2219.Take your

children over to 11th and Kleberg streets Saturday, Dec. 3 as well for the CHRISTUS Spohn Kleberg-sponsored Chil-dren’s Festival. The event will feature train rides, face painting, a fish pond, pony rides and much more fun. Get your photo with Santa as well. Call 361-595-9701 for information.

A teen dance will be held from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club of Kings-ville. The dance is for those age 12 to 17. There will be a dance contest with prizes. Admission is two canned goods which will be donated to the local food bank. Call John Perez at 361-592-2100.

But the fun doesn’t end there. The tour of homes is from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, hosted by the Woman’s Club of Kingsville. Come tour some of the beautifully decorated homes of Kingsville in this annual favorite activity. Contact Cheryl Kirk at 361-522-2741.

The Community Choir Program is also holding a Christmas music holiday concert at First Baptist Church on King Avenue on Dec. 4. Call Sandra Messbarger at 361-215-5195.

Holiday Story Time is from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Dec. 10 at the Robert J. Kleberg Public


La Posada de KingsvilleEvents through Dec. 18

J KINGSVILLE, TEXAS

u WHERE: Historic Downtown Kingsvilleu COST: Events are for the enjoyment of area residents. u FMI: Log on to www.kingsvilletexas.com

See POSADA, Page 18


The latest job openings 24/7 at cityofalice.org

Utility SpecialistBuilding/Plumbing Inspector

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Police Officer

Employment Opportunities

Don’t overlook the charm of small towns. The cost of living is fair, the folks are friendly and

employment abounds at the City of Alice.

Make Your Move to The City of AliceEnchanting Forest,

Enchanting Time

Trees in the Enchanted Forest are decorated by different groups in the community, such as the Red Hat Society, above.

Although White Christmases may be few and far between in

South Texas, that doesn’t mean residents are at all lacking in Christmas Spir-it. For the past 14 years, the Port Aransas Parks and Recreation Depart-ment has come together with members of the com-munity to create a holiday spectacle for everyone to enjoy.

“The City Custodial Crew decorates the whole Civic Center, and then each group, organization or individual decorates a

tree or an area,” Parks and Rec. Community Program Coordinator Pam Greene said. “We’ve actually been doing this since 1997.”

“Everyone is welcome to set up a display, there’s no fee to register, but you need to reserve a space,” Greene said. “Anybody can set them up - indi-viduals, families, busi-nesses, clubs, groups, civic organizations. Everyone is welcome.”

Even the youngest residents of the area get

J PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS

See FOREST, Page 18

By Lois Stephens

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The holiday season is kicking off in Bee County with Win-terfest 2011.

The Bee County Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Center invites South Texas travelers to expe-rience Christmas in Bee County the first weekend in December.

In 2010, Winterfest was intro-duced to promote Bee County to music lovers of all ages by bringing Texas Country and Tejano Music to the area during a fun-filled weekend

that includes downtown activities such as a Holly Jolly Christmas Mar-ket & Main, Santa’s Arrival, a Christ-mas Lighted Parade and downtown snow.

Visitors from as far south of the Rio Grande area and north of the Austin area came to see last year’s two-day entertainment lineup which consisted of Latin Grammy Award Winners and well-established Texas

Country Artists.“This will be our second year for

the Winterfest,” Tourism Director Isabel R. Ramirez said. “We had a good turnout, but this year is going to be bigger.”

This year, Winterfest will feature a Tejano night on Friday, Dec. 2, and a Country Music night on Saturday, Dec. 3.

“The Winterfest committee has brought back Male Vocalist of the Year and Latin Grammy Award

Country, Tejano acts pulling in for Winterfest

J beeville, TEXAS

By Brenda Poe

Randy Rogers Band


361664-5702 • 260 County Road 341, AliceTerry L. Kreider, General Manager

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We have vehicles priced under $10,000 in stock The road less traveled

winner Jesse Turner and Grupo SIGGNO,” Ramirez said.

Headlining the event is San Antonio native Emilio Navaira.

“Emilio looks forward to performing his greatest hits like ‘Como Le Hare,’ ‘Naciste Para Mi’ and ‘Even if I tried,’” Ramirez said. “Singing alongside him is his brother Raulito, entertainer and talk show host.”

Up and coming Corpus Christi duo Lighter Ray will kick off Winterfest on Saturday, Dec. 3. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Lauren Leighter and Chyna Ray have spent

their summer writing with the likes of songwrit-ers Susan Gibson, who has written for the Dixie Chicks and Jason Gam-bill, guitarist for six-time Grammy Award winning trio Lady Antebellum. They will be performing such hits as “The Good Life‚“ “Why Now?” and “How Do We Stay In Love?‚“ which is dedicated to Lauren’s husband who serves in the military.

Austin-born Texas Artist Kyle Park will be perform-ing his Texas Country Music chart singles such as “Somebody’s Trying to Steal My Heart” and “Don’t Look‚“ which was

co-written with Wade Bowen.

“He is not a stranger to opening up for two-time ACM Vocal Group of the Year nominee The Randy Rogers Band which will headline Saturday night’s event,” Ramirez said.

The Randy Rogers Band has landed spots on the “Tonight Show” with Jay Leno and “Late Show” with David Letterman and has opened shows for Wil-lie Nelson and The Eagles.

Hits like “Interstate,” “Too Late for Goodbye” and “Kiss me in the Dark‚“ along with others will be performed at Saturday night’s much-anticipated

sold-out concert.General admission is

$10 each night. There will be a concession stand benefitting a high school organization.

Alcoholic beverages will be sold inside the facility. No outside beverages are allowed.

Winterfest Bee County Expo

Centeru Dec. 27 p.m. - Doors Open8:30 p.m. - Jesse Turner & Grupo SIGGNO10 p.m. - Emilio Nav-aira Y Raulitou Dec. 37 p.m. - Doors Open8 p.m. - Lighter Ray9:30 p.m. - Kyle Park11 p.m. - Randy Rogers Bandu Purchase $10 tickets for each night at Bee County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Center, Pantry Con-venience Stores, Bee County Expo Center and the Alice Chamber of Commerce. All ages are welcome, children 2 and under free. Show your Toys for Bee County support by bringing an unwrapped gift to the concert and help us fill the Angel Care Ambulance!

EmilioNavaira


12 Days of ChristmasSomething new for

the holidays this year is the Twelve Days of Christmas

in Alice, leading up to Shop Alice on Saturday, Dec. 10.

“Last year the Chamber wanted the local residents to Think Alice First during the Christmas Holidays,” Chamber Executive Direc-tor Juan Navejar said. “We had such a great turnout last year for the one-day event that we wanted to try something new this year and have an event of some kind each night leading to the Shop Alice campaign.”

u The First Day of Christmas is Parade Night, Tuesday, Nov. 29. The il-luminated parade kicks off at 6 p.m.

u Nov. 30: The Second Day of Christmas is Train Ride Night with Santa Claus. The Chamber/CVB will offer free train rides behind Heldt Park.

u Dec. 1: The Third Day of Christmas will be

an official presentation of awards to Christmas Pa-rade winners at the Alice Chamber of Commerce.

u Dec. 2: The Fourth Day of Christmas is Movie Night at the Park.

“We will have a large screen on the west side of the Chamber of Commerce and will be showing a holi-day movie,” Navejar said. “We invite you to bring a blanket and sit outside and enjoy the movie.”

u Dec. 3: The Fifth Day of Christmas has gone to the dogs, cats, birds, fish etc. It’s Pets with Santa Claus. Residents can bring their pets for a free picture with Santa at the Chamber of Commerce.

u Dec. 4: The Sixth Day of Christmas is for giving with a Toy Drive. Resi-dents are asked to bring a toy for the drive that will be donated to the Local Toys for Tots campaign. Just drop your toy at the Chamber.

u Dec. 5: The Seventh

Day of Christmas is his-torically-themed with an Open House at the South Texas Museum.

u Dec. 6: The Eighth Day of Christmas is Let-ters to Santa. Come by the Chamber and have your children write their letter to Santa Claus.

The Chamber will pay the postage and mail the letter for the kids,

u Dec. 7: The Ninth Day of Christmas is Story Night. Celebrity guests will read a couple of Christmas stories to chil-dren at Heldt Park.

u Dec. 8: The Tenth Day of Christmas is the Cham-ber’s Open House/Mixer. Drop by for some goodies and mingle.

u Dec. 9: The Eleventh Day of Christmas is Photos with Santa. Bring the chil-dren in for a picture with Ol’ Saint Nick.

u Dec. 10: The Twelfth Day of Christmas is Shop Alice Day. We encourage

everyone to come out and shop in the Hub City.

For times visit the Chamber/CVB website at www.alicetxchamber.org or call us at 361-664-3454.

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Lights Across the Water

Is that the twinkling of fairy lights you see across the waters of the Gulf? No, it is the an-

nual Caroler’s Afloat and Boat Lighting Parade at the Marina in Port Aransas.

This annual event fea-tures a parade of boats, gaily lit with colored lights and festooned with a myriad of lighted Christmas decora-tions.

Mariners from near and far are invited to join the festivities by decorating their vessels and joining the parade.

It is requested that cap-tains pre-register by noon, but if not, just show up for the 5:30 p.m. Captain’s meet-ing at the City Marina.

The parade will begin promptly at 6:45 p.m.

Prizes will be awarded for first ($200) and second ($100) place in the follow-ing categories: Nonprofit Organization, Private Vessel 30 feet or less, Private Vessel 31 feet or more, and Commercial Vessel.

There also will be a special $200 “Most Origi-nal” award donated by the Port Aransas Cham-ber of Commerce.

Those who might not have a seaworthy vessel can still join in the fun by boarding one of the boats provided by Queensline or Fisher-man’s Wharf and cruise the Marina singing Christmas carols.

Songleaders on the boats will be Pepper Pendinksi and Margaret Paton.

The U.S. Coast Guard will provide transpor-tation for Santa and his elves during the parade. Afterward, children will be able to visit with Santa and enjoy hot chocolate, tamales and cookies.

This year’s event will be held beginning at 6:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3. For more informa-tion visit www.portaransas.org or call 361-749-5919.

J port aransas, TEXAS

Story By Lois Stephens


Winter Texans Always Welcome!

The City of Sin-ton and the Sin-ton Chamber of Commerce say,

“Welcome Home, Win-ter Texans” at the annual free Meet-N-Greet Break-

fast from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Lazy V, Rob and Bes-sie Welder Park on North Highway 181, two miles north of Sinton.

Join Sinton area officials and residents as well as local Chamber of Com-merce members, who will welcome you to attend city and county activities, churches, clubs and school

activities.Contact Anna at 361-

364-2307, go by the Cham-ber office at 218 West Sin-ton St. or visit http://www.sintontexas.org for more information.

J sinton, TEXAS

Welcome Christ into your Christ-mas season

this year at Las Luces del Mar - a CHRISTmas Festival.

The annual festival, now in its third year, cel-ebrates the unity of the church and the reason for the Christmas season, the birth of Jesus Christ.

The free festival is held on Shoreline Boulevard in downtown Corpus Christi and is intended as a gift to the entire com-munity of Corpus Christi (which means Body of Christ) from contribut-ing sponsors H-E-B and EnlighteningIdeas.com.

The one-day festival begins at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, with a live stage performance by Precious in His Eyes. An amazing lighting display playing across the downtown buildings sets the back-drop for the evening of inspiration, praise and unity.

The phenomenal speed-painting Christian artist Jason Rodriguez will create art live to

musical accompaniment while you watch begin-ning at 6:30 p.m.

You can see him in ac-tion on YouTube.

The 7 p.m. prayer over the city brings together local religious and spiri-tual leaders in a moment of united prayer and blessing for the City of Corpus Christi, city lead-ers and the community.

The inter-denomi-national prayer is per-formed to link the com-munity and reignite its faith in the spirit of the season.

You won’t want to miss the first-ever release of Floating Prayer Water Lanterns across the Ma-rina at 7:30 p.m.

Families and individu-als will personalize their lanterns with handwrit-ten prayers and wishes, then set them afloat into the waters of the Marina to create a sparkling and inspirational display like no other.

The biodegradable lanterns are available for purchase for $10, with proceeds benefiting Las Luces del Mar and the

Asian Cultures Museum.Also new to the festi-

val this year is a “Jesus-mas” Children’s Activ-ity area and non-profit booths in which local non-profit organizations and area churches will provide information as well as games for the children attending.

At 8 p.m., the music will continue with Bay Area Fellowship’s Chris-tian rock band Shake the Nation.

The band’s first album, “Follow,” released in the fall of 2010, debuted at No. 6 on Billboard’s overall Christian albums chart and at No. 30 for

rock albums.Verse 34 with One Step

Closer Youth Ministries will perform beginning at 9 p.m., with Christian Pop/Rock group Debo-rah Scott Brown and Prophecy rounding out the evening from 10 to 11 p.m.

In addition to the ac-tivities and performances scheduled for the Marina and main entertainment stage, the crowd will en-joy a variety of street art-ists, a live Nativity scene, entertainers, Christmas carolers and food and drink vendors.

For more information about the event, please visit www.laslucesdelmar.org.

Celebrating the reason for the seasonJ corpus christi, TEXASStory By Lois Stephens

Shake the Nation. Photo by Nikki Pais


Historical Stop Sign

St. Francis de Paula Catholic ChurchEstablished in 1867 by Father Claude Jaillet, St. Fran-cis de Paula Catholic Church in San Diego, Texas, was built through the contributions of its members and was the center of religious activity in the area. Father Jaillet served until 1872, and returned again from 1875-1884. This church was constructed in 1908 during the pastor-ate of Father Pedro Bard. The church was enlarged and remodeled and a Parochial Hall was added by 1950. The church celebrated 100 years of service to its members and the surrounding communities in 1967, and contin-ues to serve the area.

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John VillarrealOwner

Omar Garza Carlos Flores Operations Manager Sr. Field Supervisor

involved. “We always have trees

by Trinity by the Sea Day-care and Olsen Elementary School,” Greene said.

Organizations such as Rotary Club, Keep Port Aransas Beautiful, Parrot-heads, the Garden Club, the community pool, Girl Scouts, Marlin Academy Latchkey Program, Op-eration Decoration, Red Hat Society, City Hall, the Port Aransas Museum, Animal Friends, PTA groups and the Parks and

Recreation Grounds Crew have contributed their creativity to past exhibi-tions.

Greene said one espe-cially generous exhibitor is the Food and Beverage Servers of Port A (FBSPA), which does its part to make Christmas a little brighter for needy families in Port Aransas.

“Elf” Len Griggs founded the organization of waitstaff, bartenders, cooks and others in the food and beverage indus-try in Port Aransas, and along with Santa (Van

Blize) delivers decorations purchased with contribu-tions to Operation Decora-tion. The organization also deliv

ers artificial Christmas trees and decorations to qualifying families as well as stuffed stockings with age-appropriate gifts for everyone from toddlers to octogenarians within those families in time for Christ-mas.

Exhibitors are asked to pick a year, and cre-ate a tree or area that will best depict the impor-tant events of that year. Themes in years past have included Fairy Tales, Trees Around the World, Events of the Millennium, Classi-cal Literature, Myths and Legends, Texas Tradition, Outer Space, Cartoon and Comics, Christmas at the Zoo, Once Upon a Time, The Fruits of Christmas, The True Spirit of Christ-mas, Christmas, Island Style and 100 years of Port A.

“We will have piano playing for people who want to come in and enjoy it. We’ll have our chil-dren’s Christmas party

from 5 to 7 p.m. on Tues-day, Dec. 13.

“The kids get a token and get to vote for their favorite exhibit and Santa will be there. The kids get toys and candy and pictures taken, sponsored by the Chamber of Com-merce, the Rotary Club and the Boatmen’s Asso-ciation,” Greene said.

Admission to the exhi-bition is free to everyone; however, canned goods and other non-perishable items are being collected for the Helping Hands Food Pantry.

The Enchanted Forest will set up from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11, and will be open from 8 a.m to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, Dec. 12 through 16 and Monday through Thursday, Dec. 19 through 22.

It also will be open until 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13 for the Children’s Christmas Party. Trees will be dismantled on Tuesday, Dec. 27.

Please contact Greene at 361-749-4158 or [email protected] for more information.


and more will be available to delight all the senses.

“We’re really looking forward to the live enter-tainment - and everyone can look for free tickets through the sponsors on the Chamber web site (inglesidetxchamber.org),” Jessica Williams, Chamber of Commerce Executive Assistant said.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 10 and 11, at Live Oak Park, 2065 Parkview Place in Ingle-side.

FAIRE, From 5

Library. Several holiday stories will be read to children of all ages. There will be snacks, drawings for door prizes and a book giveaway for the first 40 families who arrive. Call Danielle Friend at 361-592-6381.

A Christmas Pageant sponsored by First Baptist Church is at 7 p.m. Dec. 10 and 10:45 a.m. Dec. 11. “Searching for the King” is a story of two different worlds seeking the same

truth. The production features

a cast of six principal ac-tors, adult and children’s choirs, professional orches-tra and wide-room staging with lighting effects. The presentations are free. Call Larry Purkey at 361-592-3344.

The Children’s Choir program is a blending of scripture and children’s voices in this Christmas service at 10:45 a.m. Dec. 18 at First Baptist Church. Call Larry Purkey at 361-592-3344.

POSADA, From 8

FOREST, From 9


Thursday, Dec. 1 - Victoria - “Christmas at the Carillon.” The 18th edition of Conspirare’s popular “collage” concert for the holidays features choral music from many centuries and styles. Soprano Mela Sarajane Daley and tenor Matt Alber are featured guest artists. First United Methodist Church, Victoria, Texas. www.conspirare.org/

Friday, Dec. 2 - Corpus Christi - Rolling Art Show. Art Walk features a motorcycle art show starting at 5:30 p.m. House of Rock, Call 361-882-7625 for information. www.texashouseofrock.com/

Friday, Dec. 2 - Corpus Christi - South Texas Cinematheque Film Showing. This event spotlights an innovative, cutting-edge work by an independent filmmaker and gives audience members an opportunity to discuss the film with the director. Art Museum of South Texas, 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd. Phone: 361-825-2296 http://www.facebook.com/southtexascinema

Friday, Dec. 2 - Corpus Christi - Islander Lights Celebration. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi buildings along Ocean Drive are illuminated with holiday lights for the public to enjoy music, games and fam-ily activities. Fun run and walk begins at 5 p.m., Santa arrives at 6 p.m. and the lighting ceremony is at 7 p.m. Performing Arts Center at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Phone: 361-825-2231

Friday and Saturday - Dec. 2 and 3 - Christmas in Goliad. Lighted parade, shop-ping and food on Friday. Saturday features a juried arts and crafts show 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Santa’s arrival on a longhorn steer at noon, pony express ride, live music and dancers 10 a.m.-4 p.m., authors and book signings, Market House Museum exhibit and a Best-Dressed Dog contest. Courthouse square, 231 S. Market St., Goliad, Texas. Phone: 361-645-8767 http://www.goliadcc.org/

Saturday, Dec. 3 - Goliad - Music at the Winery. Hours are 6-10 p.m. Texas South

Wind Vineyard and Winery, 16375 Hwy. 183 S., Goliad, Texas. Phone 361-526-4662. http://www.texassouthwind.com/

Saturday, Dec. 3 - Beeville - Christmas lighted parade. Main Street, call 361-362-0368.

Saturday, Dec. 3 - Goliad - Las Posadas.Traditional Mexican cultural event recalls Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging. Presidio La Bahia, 217 Loop 71, Goliad, Texas. Phone: 361-645-3752 http://www.presidiolabahia.org/

Saturday, Dec. 3 - Goliad - Beeville Community Chorus Performance - Christmas at the Mission. Under the direction of Dr. James Lee, the Beeville Community Chorus presents a selection of Christmas music inside the old chapel of Mission Espiritu Santo. Begins at 8 p.m. Mission Espiritu Santo at Goliad State Park, 108 Park Road 6, Goliad, Texas. Phone: 361-645-3405, 361-645-3406

Saturday, Dec. 3 - Victoria - Lighted Christmas parade . Begins at 6 p.m. down-town. E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 361-485-3200 http://www.victoriatx.org/

Saturday, Dec. 3 - Corpus Christi - Harbor Lights Festival. The Corpus Christi skyline and Marina area are illuminated for the holiday season. Features entertainment, family activities and vendors with food and holiday items for sale. Corpus Christi Marina/Downtown. Phone: 361/985-1555 http://www.harborlightsfestival.org/

Tuesday, Dec. 6 - Corpus Christi - “Michael Martin Murphey: A Cowboy Christmas.”Performing Arts Center at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. http://tamucc.tix.com/

Wednesday through Sunday, Dec. 7 through 11 - Corpus Christi - University Theatre 10-Minute Play Festival. Six short plays are presented each night. Begins at 6 p.m. Wilson Theatre at the Center for the Arts at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. Phone: 361-825-5800

http://cla.tamucc.edu/theatre

Saturday, Dec. 10 - Victoria - Christmas in the Park. 6 p.m. Riverside Park. Phone 361-485-3200 http://www.victoriatx.org/

Saturday, Dec. 10 & 24 - Aransas Pass - Farmers Market/Trade Day. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vegetables, arts and crafts, and animals - In the parking lot of the Chamber of Commerce/Visitors Center, 130 W. Goodnight, off Hwy. 361. http://www.aransas-pass.org/farmers_market.cfm

Sunday, Dec. 11 - Corpus Christi - The annual Multi-Cultural Musical Christmas Festival begins at 3 p.m. Dec. 11 at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3251 Reid Drive. Christmas songs in English, German, Tagalog, Spanish and French by the choirs at St. Luke’s and Las Madrugadoras, the Philippine Society Choir, the choir of El Bune Pastor UMC, St. Paul’s UMC and Melvin Kronk’s trombone and Charles Palm. Free. Information: 225-2477 or 695-2345.

Dec. 1 through 17 Corpus Christi - 100@$100 Fundraiser. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi University Galleries offer 100 pieces of art for $100 or less. Islander Art Gallery, 4024 Weber Road, at the Hamlin Shopping Center. Phone: 361-825-3756 http://cla.tamucc.edu/art/

through Wednesday, Dec. 21 - Corpus Christi - Christmas Tree Forest. Christmas trees decorated by children in the holiday symbols and cultures of 30 countries from around the world are on display. The Art Museum of South Texas, 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd. Phone: 361/825-3500 http://www.artmuseumofsouthtexas.org/

Tuesday, Dec. 27 - Victoria - Crossroads Country Opry. Jaycee Hall, 2905 E North St., Victoria, TX. The Victoria Jaycees offer meals for $6 beginning at 5:30 p.m. before each show. 7 to 9:30 p.m. and admission is $5. Visit http://crossroadscountryopry.com/ for performer lineup.

( )ec·lec·tic /iklektik/ - Adjective: Deriving ideas, style, or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.

Victoria Ballet Theatre is proud to present the 2011 production of The NutcrackerDec. 8 through 11. The production, which features Victoria Ballet Theatre company danc-ers, nationally known guest artists and community volunteers, is a South Texas holiday tradition. Performances are at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, also at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts. Admission Thursday, Dec. 8 is *$20 presale. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9 through 11, tickets are *$25 presale and $30 at the door. For more information call (361) 576-6277.

*Tickets available at the Leo J. Welder Center box office and at 361.570.TKTS. Admission price plus Leo J. Welder Center surcharge of $1. All seats reserved. Visa and Mastercard accepted.

EclEctic EvEnts

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