Calhoun County Life - Winter 2018-2019

A Guide for Visitors and Newcomers

WINTER 2018-2019

FEATURING PORT LAVACA POINT COMFORT SEADRIFT PORT O'CONNOR

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

“Family Environment”

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IN PORT LAVACA

361-552-7177

2055 State Highway 35 North Port Lavaca, TX 77979 Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Cal-Com

Federal Credit Union www.calcomfcu.org

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

FAMILY MEDICINE CLINIC

HOME HEALTH SERVICES

Dr. Javier M. Vazquez-Ortiz

2807 North Ben Wilson, Victoria, TX 77901

2705 Hospital Drive, Ste 402 Bldg B, Victoria, TX 77901

Phone: 361.579.1305

Phone: 361.582.5685 | Fax: 361.582.5613

MISSION VALLEY CLINIC

IMAGING CENTER 9410 N. Zac Lentz Parkway, Victoria, TX 77904 Phone: 361.570.7277

Walk-Ins Welcome Dr. Richard Heard Ngoc Duran, FNP-C 8410 FM 236, Victoria, TX 77905 Phone: 361.582.5740 | Fax: 361.582.5706

HEMATOLOGY & ONCOLOGY

WEIGHT LOSS SOLUTIONS Dr. B. Dean McDaniel Celia Goode, FNP VICTORIA LOCATION

CITIZeNS BarIaTrIC CeNTer

Dr. Fariborz Gorouhi

CITIZeNS WeIgHT MaNageMeNT CeNTer

Amanda Berger, FNP-C

2705 Hospital Drive, Ste 400 Bldg B, Victoria, TX 77901

Courtney Lundin, PA-C

Phone: 361.574.1888 | Fax: 361.574.1558

2705 Hospital Drive, Ste 401 Bldg B, Victoria, TX 77901 Phone: 361.582.7949 | Fax: 361.582.7945

RADIATION ONCOLOGY

CORPus CHRIsTI LOCATION

CITIZeNS BarIaTrIC CeNTer 5826 esplanade Drive, Ste 201, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 Phone: 361.986.0404 | Fax: 361.986.0415

Dr. David Janssen, ABBRO Dr. Jonathan Verma 2701 Hospital Drive, Victoria, TX 77901 Phone: 361.572.5033 | Fax: 361.572.5086

UROLOGY CLINIC 2705 Hospital Drive, Ste 402 Bldg B, Victoria, TX 77901 Dr. Aaron R. New Phone: 361.582.7965 | Fax: 361.582.7967 Dr. Marshall Wiener Phone: 361.582.5700 | Fax: 361.582.5702

CARDIOVASCULAR ASSOCIATES OF VICTORIA 2705 Hospital Drive, Ste 200, 400, 402 Bldg B, Victoria, TX 77901 Phone: 361.573.0756 | Fax: 361.582.5602

BIRTH CENTER 2701 Hospital Drive, Victoria, TX 77901 CLaSSeS & regISTraTIoN Phone: 361.570.7277

CITIzENS HEALTHPLEx 9406 Zac Lentz Parkway, Victoria, TX 77904 Phone: 361.570.5433 | Fax: 361.574.1590

WOUND HEALING CENTER 2701 Hospital Drive, Victoria, TX 77901 Phone: 361.574.1509

REHABILITATION CENTER 9406 Zac Lentz Parkway, Victoria, TX 77904

Dr. Robert Oakley

Dr. Darren Ramoutar

Dr. Kurtis Krueger

Rhonda Bludau, ACNP

Dr. Tywaun Tillman

Jeremy Bludau, FNP

Dr. Corey scruggs

Kevin Temple, FNP

Dr. Yusuke Yahagi

Donna Oldmixon, FNP

Phone: 361.582.1109

Citizens

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

4/27/18 5:57 PM

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What’s Inside ...

Page 12: Point Comfort Page 57: Port O’Connor • Page 58: Seadrift

The Hobo Art Page 8

Holiday Lights Page 10

Just Express Yourself ROSS STAPP

Page 38

Season for Oysters Page 44

Look Up For The Birds Page 48

For Our Vets

Page 52

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

Editor and Publisher Staff Writers: Creative Services Director: Advertising:

Composition Asst.

Creative Director: Graphic Designer: Special Contributors:

DD Turner Jared Van Epps

DD Turner

PORT LAVACA WAVE 107 E. Austin Street Port Lavaca, TX 77979 361-552-9788 PortLavacaWave.com

Schelly Bartels Christy Aguilar Calhoun County Life Betty Birdwell Visitor and Newcomers Ashley Kontnier Guide is published semi annually. Additional Mac Sistrunk copies available by Fran Sherman contacting the Port Lavaca Wave. For Barbara Negron advertising information, call 361-552-9788.

Rhonda Cummins Bill Harvey

Visit us online at www.portlavacawave.com or email us at editor@plwave.com.

Copyright 2018

On the cover: Is a brilliant photo taken by local photographer Bill Harvey of a starry night in Calhoun County.

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

7

IF YOU GO

The Hobo

BY DD TURNER PORT LAVACA WAVE

A piece of wood - recovered from the woodpiles created from Hurricane Harvey or found washed up on one of the beaches in the area.

The grain, the pattern of holes, its color and weathering are all there for a skilled hand to transform into a piece of art.

Audrey Huddleston’s hands turn those pieces of wood – and other media – into the works she has on display at her shop, The Hobo.

“I always tell people if they want to see that piece of wood come to life to come and watch her,” said Don Baker, Huddleston’s father who works with her two days a week. “It just changes its whole character – driftwood or whatever.”

Each piece of work in the store is individual – no two are the same, said Huddleston.

In addition to her own work, Huddleston also does custom work for customers.

“The goal of all custom work is to end up making a memory, something they can pass down through the generations,” said Huddleston.

An old swing set ended as a set of porch signs for a woman’s children, while an old megaphone was transformed as a gift for a woman’s son when he made All-American Cheerleader.

“That’s the neatest part of the job – taking something and turning it into a memory of a lifetime,” she said.

THE WORK One of the biggest issues is finding good wood.

“I do a lot of beachcombing, lots of dumpster diving to find a piece of wood” that has what she needs, Huddleston said.

Her father added that it is “nearly impossible to find quality wood. It’s eighty to ninety dollars a sheet for a piece of wood that might or might not work,” he explained.

They are constantly looking

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AUDREY HUDDLESTON, OWNER OF THE HOBO, LOOKS AT THE HERON SHE CREATED ON A PIECE OF WOOD. THE HERON IS A FAVORITE THAT’S HARD TO KEEP IN STOCK BECAUSE FINDING GOOD WOOD FOR THE PIECE IS HARD.

AUDREY HUDDLESTON, OWNER OF THE HOBO, WITH HER FATHER, DON BAKER, WORK ON SILHOUETTES THAT WILL BE THE BASES FOR ONE OF HUDDLESTON’S CREATION. BAKER WORKS AT THE HOBO TWICE A WEEK.

ITEMS IN THE HOBO, OWNED BY AUDREY HUDDLESTON. IN ADDITION TO HER OWN WORK, SHE SUPPORTS LOCAL ARTISTS WITH BOOTH RENTALS.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

for the wood – even wood that’s been thrown away can be used.

“It’s a method I would use, taking a piece of wood someone threw away and doing something with it. I used to make toy boxes many years ago down in Port O’Connor made from grape crates that H-E-B was throwing away.”

Baker did say following Hurricane Harvey they were able to find good pieces of wood.

“If there was one positive from the storm it was how much wood we picked up, good quality wood that was basically headed for the fire,” he said, noting they tried to get to the piles before they got too big.

Huddleston said the weather could hold up a project, especially the painting portion.

“I would like to get Christmas orders in early because of the weather. I have a friend whose brother owns a paint garage here and has offered to let me use it.

But even he gets held up painting cars because of the humidity.”

One of Huddleston’s favorite things to do is customizing blackboards because of the creativity and ease in making it.

“It can be re-usable or sealed,” she said.

“Chalkboards are relaxing and fun and they are never the same – can be any theme, cartoon, occasion. I just like doing them.

It’s one of my biggest sellers.

A LEAP OF FAITH Huddleston celebrated her one-year full-time anniversary at her current place, 1800 State Hwy. 35. She has had a store for a little over two years, the first near Wagon Train that was only open part time.

Caricatures are another love for Huddleston. During her tenure at H-E-B as a store artist, she created caricatures of all the regional managers at the time.

“I was a store artist for ten years and the executive director started having me do some (caricatures) of his managers.

The regional directors from the you to do it by tomorrow and other stores found out about they don’t understand that, them and I ended up doing for one, there is a whole line of caricatures of all the regional customers who have already managers of H-E-B. put in their custom order and, “That was so fun because secondly, it is handcrafting – the you got to make fun of them a whole process from finding the little bit without getting into wood to the finishing touches,” trouble since the goal of a she said. caricature is to exaggerate one Because of the nature of wood, of their features.”

Huddleston said she does not She got the job at H-E-B when give quotes for custom orders her sister said she needed to where someone provides the apply for the position that had wood sight unseen. “Often it’s been advertised. plumb rotten and falls apart.”

“I drew a can of Hill Country In addition, the process can be AUDREY HUDDLESTON, OWNER OF THE HOBO, DISPLAYS A RAW WOOD Fare beans with my son’s colors taxing. “I want to improve it so CROSS THAT’S WAITING FOR A DESIGN. HUDDLESTON SAID THE CROSSES SELL WELL FOR HER. and they hired me on the spot,” that I don’t feel so beat up. They she said. are hard to do when you have Store art was large scale – a ton of them, deadlines and eight to 10 foot pieces. “I did that for 10 years and ended up doing the weather plus you are doing everything – production, sales, display, whole Gulf Coast region. When they moved me to the Plus store that marketing, social media, cashier cleanup, housekeeping..,” had opened they found out I could do cakes, do floral arrangements, I “And chief cook and bottle washer,” interjected her father. could do all that. I was spread so thin,” she said.

Another way Huddleston receives orders is through Facebook Then came a chance to work in what she described as her second and texts. passion – senior citizens.

“They call or text at all times of the day – at six in the morning I “I was attending Sunday school at Alamo Heights at the time and might get a Facebook message,” she said. “I get so much business someone mentioned Trinity Shores was seeking an activity director. after hours when people are shopping online. I think that’s the trend I love senior adults they are my passion second to art – might even be now, shopping online. As soon as I post something on Facebook, tied,” said Huddleston. without a doubt, I will get an order. If I’m overwhelmed, I won’t She eventually worked her way up to the executive director post,” she said. position and went through Trinity Shores’ bankruptcy and eventual FAMILY & FAITH purchase. There was a lot of stress with the new company, she said.

Huddleston grew up in Port O’Connor, where her dad owned The “I was diagnosed with cancer in 2012 and after going through Boat Doctor for 30 years. chemo and everything I felt that life was too short to be stressed out “They moved to Beeville when they started going to church up and God was tugging at my heartstrings that I needed to do this,” there. It was against my wishes but they moved anyway,” she said she said, with a smile. “I grew up in Calhoun County. These are my people.”

And, taking that leap of faith, she opened a store part-time. “It was Huddleston’s faith is seen in her work and in the name of her shop. only open Friday and Saturdays. I would pay someone to work on “I always try to do something to honor God,” she said, adding she Friday and I would work Saturday while doing art at night plus sixty was up-in-the air about Halloween pieces. “I am not sure that does.” to seventy hours a week as executive director at Trinity Shores.

The name of the store has its roots in the stories her grandfather That’s when I knew I needed to quit,” she said. told of working on the railroad and hobos along the way.

Huddleston said she originally meant to partner with someone “My Poppy, dad’s dad, he’s like a family hero. He worked the who did re-purposed furniture but that fell through.

Santa Fe Railroad for 40 years and he would always tell us stores of Because the rent in Port Lavaca is “outrageous,” she started working on the railroad and hobos.” highlighting local arts in her store through a booth rental.

He died of Alzheimer’s Disease and Huddleston said she has “Right now I have Chelsea’s Craft Cave. She’s been here three developed a passion to learn about the disease, to support the or four months. She has T-shirts, freshers, mugs and it works out Memory Walk. wonderful. I get a small booth rental and some commission off the “I was always intrigued by hobos so when I was trying to think of items she carries,” said Huddleston. “James Holland does Christian a name for my business – I wanted to pull it together and keep it faith wear and custom T-shirts as well. I have two in here who do based. I looked up the word hobo handmade jewelry, boxes made and it is an acronym that means by a retired man in Seadrift, a homeward bound, I feel as a local wreath maker.

Christian that’s what our goals “It keeps it full and it has should be. If you die today are variety. By using local talent you homeward bound? it works hand in hand. They “That’s why I named it the push people to come here and Hobo. People tell me I should buy their work; it increases have named it something foot traffic and helps me pay pretty but when you hear the my rent. story – it’s neat how it all CUSTOM ORDERS worked out.”

Huddleston said her goal for the next year is to figure out how to improve the custom Address: 1800 State Hwy. 35 order process.

Phone: 361-237-6802 “People don’t quite ITEMS IN THE HOBO, OWNED BY AUDREY HUDDLESTON. IN ADDITION TO HER understand the work that goes OWN WORK, SHE SUPPORTS LOCAL ARTISTS WITH BOOTH RENTALS. Facebook: The Hobo From Texas into a custom order,” explained Huddleston. “And so they want

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Calhoun County The quaint communities that make up Calhoun County light up during the holidays with festive celebrations, parades, visits with Santa Claus and more.

The small but vibrant community of Port O’Connor will host its annual lighted boat parade at approximately 6:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1st.

This season the parade will celebrate its 27th year to light up the Intracoastal Canal.

Sponsored by the Port O’Connor Chamber of Commerce, the event usually attracts at least 15 to 20 brightly decorated watercraft from small boats with colorful lights to huge decorated shrimp boats with a variety of holiday themes to delight the crowd on shore.

Vessels are judges in categories such as best overall, most spirited, most unique, bests

Lights up commercial, best large pleasure, best medium pleasure and best small pleasure vessels.

Darla Parker, POC Chamber president describes the parade as “colorful and festive” and a definite event to attend this holiday Season.

The POC chamber also teams up with the Freeport Toy Run that provides boats full of toys for the children of Calhoun County and surrounding areas in a run from Freeport to Port O’Connor.

To enter the POC boat parade, call Bill Tigrett at 361-983-2671.

Just down the road in the fishing community of Seadrift, the Seadrift Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Golf Cart Scavenger Hunt for the holiday season.

“The scavenger hunt is a fun, family event

to test your wit, talent, and luck by joining in on the fun to show how well you know Seadrift and how observant you are, plus earn a little cash,” said Seadrift Chamber President Kristine Metcalfe. “This is a family fun event.”

The event takes place at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8, starting at First National Bank in Seadrift. The entry fee is $5 per person entry fee with a maximum of four people per team.

Cash prizes will be awarded depending on the number of entries. Only licensed drivers are permitted to drive golf carts. Minor children are welcome to participate but must have a parent or guardian present.

Seadrift also hosts an annual residential and commercial Christmas Lighting contest.

Christmas in Port Lavaca kicks off with Jingle and Mingle Market Days from 4-8 p.m.

CHILDREN TELL SANTA CLAUS WHAT THEY WANT FOR CHRISTMAS AFTER THE TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AT BAYFRONT PENINSULA PARK PAVILION IN PORT LAVACA IN 2015. THIS YEAR’S TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY IS AT 6:30 P.M. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 7 AT THE PARK. (SHERRY FICKLEN/WAVE PHOTO)

THE CALHOUN COUNTY FAIR QUEEN AND HER COURT PARTICIPATED IN THE CHRISTMAS PARADE IN PORT LAVACA IN 2015. THE THEME FOR THIS YEAR’S PARADE IS “THE TWELVE DAYS OF CHRISTMAS.” (SHERRY FICKLEN/WAVE PHOTO)

CHILDREN PARTICIPATED WITH VARIOUS SCHOOLS AND CLUBS IN THE CHRISTMAS PARADE, HELD IN DOWNTOWN PORT LAVACA, IN 2015.

THIS YEAR’S PARADE IS AT 6:30 P.M. THURSDAY, DEC. 8.

(SHERRY FICKLEN/WAVE PHOTO)

CALHOUN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN THE CHRISTMAS PARADE IN DOWNTOWN PORT LAVACA IN 2015. THE CITY OF PORT LAVACA AND THE PORT LAVACA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SPONSOR A VARIETY OF ANNUAL EVENTS DURING CHRISTMAS. (SHERRY FICKLEN/WAVE PHOTO)

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

During the Tuesday, Dec. 4, at the Bauer Community Center. Hosted by the Port Lavaca Chamber of Commerce, Jingle and Mingle Market Days will host approximately 20 vendors featuring a variety of handmade crafts, clothing gifts, wine and more. There will also be a romance package raffled off while Johnny and Mike keep things jumping with live entertainment.

There is no admission to attend.

The lighted Christmas parade “Sail into the Season” takes place at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, down Virginia Street in Port Lavaca.

The chamber expects to have at least 40 festive entries with a few thousand spectators watching the parade.

The festivities will continue at Bayfront Peninsula Park with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree immediately after

Holidays

the parade.

“We have plans for a magical event,” said Tania French, events committee chairman for The City of Port Lavaca. “We hope everyone will come out and join us to “Sail into the Season” at the Christmas parade and tree lighting. It will be a fun time for the entire family and hope it will set the tone for wonderful holiday season in our community.”

There will be local live entertainment, fire pits and s’mores and, of course, the big man himself, Santa Claus.

All events after the parade are free of charge and open to the community.

The annual food rally, sponsored this year by the Port Lavaca Chamber of Commerce and H.E.B., will take place at 10:30 p.m. Monday,

Dec. 10, at H.E.B. The Chamber hopes to have at least 20 teams with three members per team. The fee to enter the rally is $20 with all groceries “purchased” during the event donated to the Calhoun Community Ministries Food Pantry. Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third place teams. There will also be a prize for best costumes. For more information or to sign up, contact Brook House at 361-552-2959 or brook@ portlavacachamber.org.

For information about Port Lavaca events, contact The Port Lavaca Chamber of Commerce at 361-552-2959 or email cathy@portlavacachamber.org or brook@portlavacachamber.org

CHILDREN PARTICIPATED WITH VARIOUS SCHOOLS AND CLUBS IN THE CHRISTMAS PARADE, HELD IN DOWNTOWN PORT LAVACA, IN 2015.

THIS YEAR’S PARADE IS AT 6:30 P.M. THURSDAY, DEC. 8. (SHERRY FICKLEN/WAVE PHOTO)

CHILDREN “ICE” SKATE AT THE SKATING RINK IN THE BAYFRONT PENINSULA PARK PAVILION AFTER THE TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY IN PORT LAVACA IN 2015.

THIS YEAR’S TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY IS AT 6:30 P.M. WEDNESDAY, DEC. 7 AT THE PARK. (SHERRY FICKLEN/WAVE PHOTO)

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

11

Com fort

ACROSS THE BAY

BY DD TURNER PORT LAVACA WAVE

POINT COMFORT

Change is coming to the small community of Point Comfort but the town just over the causeway from Port Lavaca will still retain all its small town charm.

One of the main changes is new permits and camping sites.

People wanting to use the park for an event that will require it to be blocked off need a use permit for events with more than 25 people plus security. The number of security goes up as the number of attendees does. “There is a hundred dollar deposit for any event and the security is paid for by them, not us,” said Point Comfort Councilwoman Kellie Hynes, who is responsible for parks and recreation. “This is just for parks, the auditorium is different. ”If alcohol is to be served, a new $50 alcohol permit will be needed.

“We never had alcohol before – over the causeway or down 1593. We were dry but it passed to sell so that has opened things up to more events coming into our city. We got the areas for it and someday we will have something close to a Flip Flop Festival,” she said.

As for camping, Hynes said there will be nine number sites for tents but no campers or RVs that will include a barbeque pit and covered picnic table. The fee is $25 per night with a limit of two nights. And, an alcohol fee will be required if it will be consumed at the site.

“There is no alcohol allowed on the fishing pier,” said Hynes.

However, the piers and docks are open 24/7 and have electricity and water at the cleaning table.

“We have a wooden pier and a dock they can tie up to the side of and that’s all free. Some have been trying to change that but it’s been a public dock forever,” she said.

Another change is to the park’s hours.

The park will be closed at 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at midnight on Friday and Saturday. It reopens at 6 a.m. each morning.“We have some people who walk at five in the morning and as long as they are on the track, that’s OK,” said Hynes.

The city’s pool saw an update this year

12

thanks in part to a grant from Alcoa. This included better security, repaired bathrooms updated showers.

“The YMCA is trying to bring a swimming exercise class here, especially for elder people, and have talked about someone doing an exercise class outside the pool but still on the property,” said Hynes. And with the baby pool filled in due to law, Hynes said she wants to put a washer game or something like it in that area.

Hynes has plans for the park that include renovating old playground items like the turtle and rocking horse. “People has said please don’t take it out so I want to repaint them and get new springs for the turtle – keep part of the old park,” she said.

In addition, Hynes is working to put in outdoor exercise equipment. “That way the parents can workout while they watch their children play. The equipment is awesome,” she said. The equipment will be like that found in a gym but built to be outside.

This year’s Christmas Lighting Contest will illuminate the town. Judging will be 6-8 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 13---Point Comfort was built

by Aluminum Company of America, now ALCOA, Inc., in 1948 and was incorporated in 1953. Point Comfort is home to industrial plants, an international port and many families and retirees that seek a quiet lifestyle in a close-knit community.

Point Comfort was built by Aluminum Company of America, now ALCOA, Inc., in 1948 and was incorporated in 1953. Point Comfort is home to industrial plants, an international port and many families and retirees that seek a quiet lifestyle in a closeknit community.The Port of Port Lavaca-Point Comfort is one of the busiest ports in the state of Texas. The Calhoun Port Authority operates the port that is served by the Matagorda Ship Channel and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.

Recreation is a large part of the community.

On either side of the boat ramp on Lamar Street re two lighted piers. The piers are open to the public free of charge 24 hours a day.

One of the piers is handicap accessible and the other has its own fish cleaning station.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

The causeway bridge is also a popular spot for fisherman. People line the bridge day and night to take advantage of the hot spot.

Redfish, trout and flounder are caught there regularly. Fishing is a major draw to the community as in Calhoun County where there is fishing protected from open surf, drawing tourists all year long.

Point Comfort also boasts an outstanding city park with 10 cabanas, each with its own picnic table and barbeque pit and a larger center gazebo in the middle. The park features walking/running trails and a playground for children.

The Point Comfort city pool is another attraction that brings in people from all over the Calhoun County area. The pool typically opens in the first week of May on Saturdays and Sundays. When school is out the pool will be open every day for the summer.

Point Comfort also hosts a large July 4 celebration at its community park to which all are invited to attend. There are vendors and locals in attendance, and all activities are family friendly. At the conclusion of the event, there is a major fireworks display over the water for all to enjoy.

The town community center is named in honor of former Point Comfort Police Chief Rick Brush, who died in the line of duty.

The Point Comfort Branch of the Calhoun County Library is in the Lamar Shopping Center. The library is open five days a week and a form of it has existed since 1955.Also, on the corner of Lamar and State Highway 35 are two staples of the Point Comfort community and the plant workers.

Village Grocery is a hot spot at lunchtime for the plant workers because of the convenience and hot food. Rolling Joe's, across from Village Grocery, on the other corner of Lamar and State Highway 35, serves the Point Comfort community and plant workers with Mexican food.

Churches of all denominations including the Assembly of God, Baptists, Catholics, Church of Christ, Lutherans and Methodists officer services to the citizens.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

13

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WHERE’S THE BAIT?

If you are out to catch big fish, then you need to know where to get the best bait. Don’t get caught without the supplies needed to catch redfish, flounder, gafftop, trout, tarpon, snapper or shark.

PORT LAVACA

Big Bear Shrimp, 2241 N. Hwy. 35, 361-553-8091 Indianola Fishing Marina, 8 Bell St., 361-552-5350 Miller’s Seafood, 515 Fulton, 361-552-6423

SEADRIFT

Charlie’s Bait Camp, 361-785-3023 Dockside Bait Shop, 806 S. Main, 361-785-3344

PORT O’CONNOR Beacon 44 Seafood Market, 1982 W. Harrison, 361-983-4247 Froggie’s Bait Dock 2649 Stella St., 361-983-4466 Marty’s Landing & Mama’s Kitchen, 31 N. Byer Road, 361-983-3474 The Fishing Center, Intracoastal Canal, 14th and Water Streets, 361-983-4440

Personal service is our first policy.

P.O. Box 339, Port O’ Connor TX 77982 Office: (361) 983-2010 Fax: (361) 983-2011 Giddings office 800-283-4086 thardegree@siegins.com

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234 E. Main •Port Lavaca, Tx 361-553-5555 Mon-Wed: 11-2 & 5-8:30 • Thurs-Fri: 11-2 & 5-9 Sat: 11-9 • Sun: Closed

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

815 North Virginia St., Port Lavaca, Texas 77979

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Where Caring Is Our Calling!

524 Village Road, PoRt laVaca, tX 77979 • 361-552-3741 • www.RegencyhealthcaRe.com

Our main goal is to assist in achieving the highest level of functioning, while providing a comfortable environment in which to recover from illness, injury or infections.

• Physical Therapy WE • Occupational Therapy • Respite Care • IV Therapy OFFER: • Speech Therapy • Wound Care • Palliative Care

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Bob Bonar, Agent 401 N Highway 35 Bypass Port Lavaca, TX 77979 Bus: 361-552-4689 Fax: 361-552-6296 bob@bobbonar.com 1211007

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Welcome, Pardner, To The Cowboy Fellowship!

The Cowboy Fellowship of Port Lavaca is a Bible-based, family-friendly community of believers. We cater to the western culture in our approach to ministry by providing a relaxed, come as you are atmosphere and programs that appeal to those who are in touch with the cowboy way of life.

We have folks from all ages and groups, from real working cowboys to grandmas, who love the traditional music and down-to-earth biblical preaching, Sunday services begin at 10:45 a.m. We are at 2411 State Highway 35 South in Port Lavaca. Come see us!

Reach Pastor Mike at

2629 State Hwy 35 North • Port Lavaca, TX

830-570-3444

www.cowboyfellowshipofportlavaca.com

2411 State Hwy. 35 S. Port Lavaca, TX

361-552-5700

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Bayfront Park & Nautical Landings Marina

Port Lavaca City Parks & Recreation Department

361-552-3347

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

17

GREG FOJT AND KATY FOJT RECENTLY OPENED DICK’S ESCAPE ROOM IN PORT LAVACA. THE DETECTIVE STYLE ESCAPE ROOM IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Getting out of an escape room is not supposed to be easy, and Dick’s Escape Room is no exception.

Katy and Greg Fojt, along with their daughter, Faith, all of Port Lavaca, has opened up an escape room in Port Lavaca to give people a chance of escaping.

“We had learned about them a few years ago and I kind of just fell in love with them. It is fun. We love the whole concept of puzzles, clues and trying to get out,” Katy Fojt said.

An escape room is a locked room with numerous clues in the room on how to get out. It takes wittiness, teamwork and a little bit of luck to escape.

“You are locked into a room for one hour.

You have a series of puzzles and clues to get through. You have different trunks or things that are locked and you have to figure out how to unlock those things,” Katy Fojt said.

“Then you have an exit door, so within an hour you are trying to get out of that door.”

When the door shuts behind the participants, Katy Fojt will give a rundown of the rules and

18

purpose of the escape room. She also has the participants sign a liability waiver.

“I don’t stay in the room. I communicate through walkie-talkie. I will give them a cue when to start,” Katy Fojt said.

If the participants get stuck and cannot find the next clue, they have the option of asking for clues.

“They will be given a maximum of five clues to get out within an hour’s time. You want to try to do as much as you can without using them,” Katy Fojt stated.

The twist that Dick’s Escape Room has that most other escape rooms do not is a themed escape room. The escape room’s current theme is “Santa is Missing.” Contestants will have to try and escape the room, but at the same time try to figure out where Santa went.

“Mrs. Claus has received a note and you are at the last location he was seen.

Your mission is to find where he is,” Katy Fojt said.

“Just because you get out, does not mean you will know where Santa went,” she added.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

A leader board will be established and whoever gets out the fastest with using a maximum of three help clues get their name on the board.

“We want to make it challenging, so we will have a leader board for the ones who do get out with the time it took to get out,” Katy Fojt said.

Katy Fojt and her husband Greg Fojt hope that people have a good and fun time, while at the same time challenging themselves.

Greg Fojt explained that companies are using escape rooms as a team builder.

The couple got the name Dick’s Escape Room due to the investigative/detective side of the escape room.

“I wanted to throw in the detective side of it. So my husband threw out the idea of a dick, short for detective back in the day,” Katy Fojt said.

Faith Fojt said he mother wanted to make it more than just an escape room.

“She wanted to make it a detective style,” she said.

Beachcombing

BY MELONY OVERTON

Those who beachcomb and collect all sorts of treasures from shells to broken glass worn smooth by waves to other items like toys, buoys and lures will find the same and more along Calhoun County’s more than 500 miles of shoreline.

Collectors can find an array of nautical treasures like shells, driftwood, sea glass, pods and exotic drift seeds on Calhoun’s many miles of beaches in Port O’Connor, Indianola, Matagorda Island and points inbetween.

Karen Smith, of Port O’Connor, comb’s Calhoun’s beaches on the Matagorda Peninsula year round.

“I'm out at least one to two weeks a month,” Smith said. “I've always collected things from the time I was in first grade. I'm 58 now.”

Smith said the beach on the bay side of the peninsula has produced larger shells, while the Gulf side has produced a bigger variety of smaller shells, and other interesting finds that washes up, which catch her attention.

Smith collects shells, sea beans and driftwood.

She makes art from the driftwood, using it to decorate mirrors or fashion a mermaid.

“I find peace in doing the art work. I didn't think I was talented at all, but I get compliments,” Smith said. “A lot of my stuff has been given away and most of my shells are at my island house on the peninsula.”

Smith said walking the beach is delightful, but you must be prepared for anything like tides changes, heat, rain and interesting critters. She carries a bag with a flashlight, a knife, a gun, a pair of tennis shoes, a long sleeved shirt, water and oranges or apples.

“I walk sometimes seven miles, and you never know what may happen. I've found all types of things on the beach. If I find something useful I keep it,” she said.

Cindy Mutchler, of Port O’Connor, has combed Calhoun’s beaches for at least 20 years looking for rare finds such as Wentletraps, sea beans and whelk egg sacs.

“I have only found 16 whole ones (Wentletraps).

They are very fragile and wash up into the grassy areas after high tides or a storm,” she said. “I look for shells I haven't found yet, anything out of the ordinary.”

Mutchler uses books and online research to identify the shells she finds.

“Another favorite of mine is called a Limpit.

These are also fragile, vary in size and colors and many have a tiny hole on top. They are classified as Keyhole Limpits. I find them up close to grass, and when I dig into piles of shells,” she said.

Mutchler displays the shells in see-through jars and bowls in her home. Her daughter makes jewelry from moon snails, augers and olive shells.

“We clean all the shells with a Clorox solution, and they are all from Port O’Connor beaches,” she said.

Beach combing is therapy for Mutchler, she said.

“I spend hours searching, cleaning and sorting them out. I love identifying them. I meet so many interesting locals and visitors who know me and ask me about shells they have found. It's pretty cool to showcase my shells. When people come to visit they ask about my collections. I bring many samples to my Pre-K class, and share the joy and wonder with them,” she said.

Mutchler would like to make people aware of the many shells, flora, driftwood and other finds that wash ashore in Calhoun County.

“It's wonderful to search and find treasures washed up onto the beaches and the shores. In Boggy (Bayou) in Port O’Connor, you can find old bottles, sea glass, dishware pieces from the old island days. Many of them have enough information to identify them. I don't know the entire history, but there were people who lived at the old army base. Items still wash up onto the beaches,” she said.

Beachcombers can find the lightening whelk, the state shell, and other big shells at the base of the big jetties in Port O’Connor. Several prime spots for shelling within the county include the former site of Indianola, the jetties along the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway in and around Port O’Connor and the Gulf beaches adjoining Pass Cavallo.

Sand dollars, horse conch, sundials, cowrie shells, tent olives, oyster and scallop shells, to the rare Scotch Bonnet as well as fossils can be found on Calhoun’s beaches.

TIPS FOR THE INEXPERIENCED BEACHCOMBER FROM VETERAN SHELLERS: • Wear appropriate seasonal clothing • Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen and possibly long sleeves • Wear old canvas shoes to protect your feet • Wear clothes with pockets • Carry a lightweight plastic bucket, and a separate container for more delicate finds like sand dollars • Plastic bags for driftwood or carrying messy material • Fill bottles for small specimens • Trowel or other digging tool • Tweezers or toothpicks (wet the end) to pick up tiny shells • Waders, rubber boots and possibly thermal underwear during winter • A note pad and waterproof pen for keeping location data • A friend, especially when combing isolated areas like Sunday Beach on Matagorda Island

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

19

Alamo Heights Baptist Church Alamo Heights Baptist Church is a friendly, family centered Bible believing church. We would love to see you!

110 Trinity Shores Port Lavaca, TX 77979 (361) 552-2532 Email: officeahbc@tisd.net www.ahbcportlavaca.com

Sunday morning: Bible study 9:45 a.m.

Worship at 10:50 a.m.

Sunday night: 6 p.m.

Wednesday night: 6:30 p.m.

God Bless You!

902 Calhoun St. Port Lavaca, TX 77979 361-552-2931 firstbaptist@cableone.net fbcportlavaca.com Worship Sundays: 10:15 a.m.

Bible Study for All Ages Sundays: 9 a.m.

Wednesdays: 6:30 p.m.

A Vacation For Your Pet!

Seated from left, Carly W. Wall and John Villafranco.

Standing, from left, Sandra Witte, David Roberts and Anne Marie Odefey.

Roberts, Odefey, Witte, & Wall, LLP

Attorneys at Law 2206 North Hwy. 35 Bypass, Port Lavaca, TX 77979 Office: 361-552-2971 www.portlavacalaw.com

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

111 N. Ann • 361-552-5441

The fishing is good around here.

It always is on Matagorda Bay and Lavaca Bay which also just happen to be the destination for hundreds of ships and barges moving valuable cargo through the Port of Port Lavaca-Point Comfort. The Calhoun Port Authority has long been committed to promoting responsible, sustainable development that’s in the best interest of the community, the environment and the economy. We strive for continuous improvement in our environmental performance and pollution prevention measures. That makes the fishing better for everybody.

CALHOUN Port Authority

Calhoun Port Authority 1/2 page for Visitor Guide 2010 Don Rodman dcrodman@charter.net 361-777-3999

Mon.- Fri.: 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sat.: 7:30 a.m. 4 p.m.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

21

FullRResidential, Full esidential, Commercial CommeRCial&& Propane aAgriculture gRiCultuRe P RoPaneService seRviCe SaleS • Service • •Tank SaleSSales Sales • Service Tank Locally owned and andoperated operated Locally owned

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361-552-4858

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LODGING & GUIDE SERVICE: Daily or weekly lodging. Each room is equipped with minifridge, microwave, flat screen TV and FREE WiFi. Book a fishing trip and enjoy a day of fun and relaxation on San Antonio Bay.

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2241 HigHway 35 N. Port Lavaca, tX 77979 22

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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3 bed, 3 bath; pool, boat slip. Units 1, 5, 7, 9, 11, 15, 17.

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ANDERSON AT 611 WASHINGTON 3/2 up, 1/1 down, 1 block from beach.

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Brenda Carter, Licensed Realtor ◆ Russell Cain Real Estate 361-983-4371 ◆ WWW.POCRENTALS.COM P.O. Box 161, Port O’Connor, TX 77982 Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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CALHOUN COUNTY: AN ODYSSEY OF HISTORICAL MARKERS 1. Alsatian Immigration through Lavaca Bay Harbor St., Port Lavaca (West side of City Harbor) 2. Beach Hotel Main & Commerce Sts., Port Lavaca 3. Beaumont, Jefferson Port Lavaca Cemetery, South end of S. Nueces St., Port Lavaca 4. Calhoun County Ann & Leona Sts., Port Lavaca 5. Calhoun County Hurricanes Calhoun County Courthouse grounds 211 S. Ann St. 6. Calhoun County Jail 301 S. Ann St., Port Lavaca 7. Civil War Bombardment of Port Lavaca Bay Front Peninsula. (At end of Main St.) Next to Lavaca Bombardment Silhouette.

8. Civil War Torpedo Works Bay Front Peninsula. (At end of Main St.) Next to Lavaca Bombardment Silhouette.

9. Clark Cemetery From Hwy. 35, take US 87 north 3.6 miles. Turn left on FM 2433 and then immediately turn right on FM 1679. After 0.9 miles, turn left on Sanders Rd. Go another 0.9 miles to private road on the left. The cemetery is about 0.4 miles down the road on private property.

10. Cox’s Point Northeast end of causeway, on SH 35, near western city limit, Point Comfort, TX. 11. Eberly, Mrs. Angelina Bell Peyton From Port Lavaca, take FM 238 three miles southwest to FM 316; follow FM 316 south about 8.75 mi.

12. First Baptist Church of Port Lavaca 902 Calhoun, Port Lavaca 13. First Presbyterian Church of Port Lavaca 1111 N. Virginia, Port Lavaca 14. First United Methodist Church of Port Lavaca 814 N. San Antonio St., Port Lavaca 15. George, Wiley S. Nueces at Cypress St., at entrance to Port Lavaca Cemetery 16. Grace Episcopal Church (2 markers) 213 E. Austin Street, Port Lavaca, East side of chapel on Guadalupe St. 17. Green Lake SH 35S one-quarter mile South of SH 185 intersection.

18. Half Moon Reef Lighthouse SH 35 and SH 238, Port Lavaca. Next to Bauer Community Center.

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19. Hatch Cemetery (Expected installation – June 2010) From Port Lavaca, take US 35 about six miles south. Then go west about one mile on Meadow View Ln. to golf course.

20. Hatch, Sylvanus From Port Lavaca, take US 35 about six miles south. Then go west about one mile on Meadow View Ln. to golf course. Marker is about in the middle of the bridge on the south side of path.

21. Indianola SH 316 (S Ocean Drive) near LaSalle Monument.

22. Indianola Cemetery From Port Lavaca, take FM 238 south southwest three miles to FM 316. Follow FM 316 about 8.75 miles to Brighton Rd. in Indianola. Follow Brighton Rd. northwest about one mile and then go west on Comal Rd. one-half mile and then right on Orleans St. one quarter mile to cemetery.

23. Indianola, Site of the Town of S. Ocean Drive about 1 mi. before Indianola Fishing Marina.

24. Johnson, Moses, M.D. Six miles northwest of Port Lavaca on US 87 25. Johnson, Moses, M.D. Private, 6.25 mile north of Port Lavaca off US 87 26. La Salle, Rene Robert Cavelier, Sieur de Beach Rd. at SH 316 terminus at Indianola, TX. 27. Lavaca Lodge No. 36, A. F. & A. M. From Port Lavaca, take FM 1090 north about two miles.

28. Linnville, Site of the Town of From Port Lavaca, take FM 1090 north about two miles. On the right side of the road.

29. Matagorda Island Lighthouse* Located approx. 7.5 miles South of Port O’Connor at 28° 20’ 16.44”, -96° 25’ 26.62” on Matagorda Island, lighthouse is accessible only by private boat or airplane plus a hike to the site.

30. Mt. Sinai Baptist Church 419 Center St., Port Lavaca 31. Olivia SH 172 at city limits, Olivia, TX. 32. Olivia Cemetery SH 172 & County Road 317 on County Road 317, Olivia, TX. 33. Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church 415 W. Austin, Port Lavaca

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

34. Port Lavaca SH 35 and SH 238, Port Lavaca. In front of Bauer Community Center.

35. Port Lavaca Cemetery End of S. Nueces St., Port Lavaca 36. Port Lavaca Chapter No. 373, Order of The Eastern Star FM 1090, two miles north of Port Lavaca 37. Port O’Connor E. Monroe Ave. at S. Park Ave., at King Fisher Beach, Port O’Connor, TX. 38. Ranger Cemetery Harbor St, Port Lavaca (West of City Harbor) 39. Rasmussen, Andrew A. Main & 15th St., Port O’Connor, TX. 40. Salem Lutheran Church 2101 FM 1090, Port Lavaca 41. San Antonio and Mexican Gulf Railroad 110 N. Virginia, Port Lavaca 42. Seadrift SH 185, Seadrift 43. Seadrift Cemetery 1273 Cemetery Road; Located 1.273 miles from Hwy 185 on Cemetery Road, Seadrift, TX 44. Six Mile Cemetery Go 4.5 miles northwest of Port Lavaca on FM 1090 to Royal Rd. Turn west on Royal and go about 0.4 miles. Cemetery is behind Six Mile Presbyterian Church.

45. Six Mile Presbyterian Church Go 4.5 miles northwest of Port Lavaca on FM 1090 to Royal Rd. Turn west on Royal and go about 0.4 miles.

46. Six Mile-Royal Community Go 4.1 miles northwest of SH 35 on FM 1090 47. St. Joseph Baptist Church 811 S. Virginia St., Port Lavaca 48. Town Cemetery, Old From Port Lavaca, take FM 238 south southwest about three miles. Then follow FM 316 south about 8.5 miles. Turn left on Zimmerman Rd. and go 1 mi.

49. Wilkins, Alice O., School Ann and Alice Wilkins streets, Port Lavaca 50. Zimmerman Cemetery From Port Lavaca, take FM 238 about 3 miles to FM 316.

Go south 7.25 miles to roadside area.

51. Cotton Gins of Calhoun County Moreman Community Gin, 10254 SH 35S

52. Battle of Norris Bridge 452 Buren Rd. near Chocolate Bayou Boat Ramp on FM 238 53. Calhoun in World War II Calhoun County Courthouse Grounds Port Lavaca.

54. Chihuahua Road S. Ocean Drive about 1 mi. before Indianola Fishing Marina, Indianola, TX. 55. Don Martin Deleon Take FM 1090 to Park Rd. at Six Mile. Located at the end of Park Rd. at entrance to Six Mile Boat Ramp.

56. Ed Bell SH 316 to Magnolia Beach. Follow road to Indianola Fishing Marina, Indianola, TX. 57. Edward Fred Knipling 186 Henry Barber Way, in front of Calhoun County Extension office, Port Lavaca 58. German Immigration Thru Karlshafen Ocean Drive at Indian Point, near boardwalk over marsh.

59. German Pioneers SH 316 (S Ocean Drive) at base of LaSalle Monument (Granite), Indianola, TX. 60. Howard Gallemore Hartzog, Jr. Calhoun County Courthouse Grounds, Port Lavaca.

61. Hurricanes of Calhoun County Calhoun County Courthouse Grounds, Port Lavaca 62. Mission Refugio SH 35S one mile south of SH 185 intersection, on the left at entrance to Guadalupe Delta Wildlife Management Area.

63. Port O’Connor Cemetery SH 185 east to Cemetery St, at outskirts of Port O’Connor, TX. Follow to the end of street.

64. Port of Entry - Indianola SH 316 (S. Ocean Drive) at base of LaSalle Monument (Granite), Indianola, TX. 65. Sgt. William Henry Barnes – 38th USCT From Port Lavaca, take FM 238 south southwest three miles to FM 316. Follow FM 316 about 8.75 miles to Brighton Rd. in Indianola.

Follow Brighton Rd. northwest about one mile and then go west on Comal Rd one-half mile and then right on Orleans St. one quarter mile to cemetery.

66. Sunlight Girls Club Corner of Ann and Alice Sts. Port Lavaca.

67. The Great Camel Experiment SH 316 at N. Ocean Drive Intersection, Indianola, TX.

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

25

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Talata’s Project

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See Great Texas Birding Trail location CTC 017 on Tres-Palacios Loop.

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361-482-0887

Monday- Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sunday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Photos courtesy of Bill harvey Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

Getting to the Beach A. Lighthouse Beach Lighthouse Beach is part of the Lighthouse Beach Park located adjacent the TX Hwy. 35 North causeway bridge. Entrance to the park is from Broadway St. (TX Hwy 238) just south of the Hwy. 35 and Hwy 238 intersection across from the Halfmoon Reef Lighthouse and Bauer Community Center. There is a modest per vehicle fee to enter the park.

B. Magnolia Beach Go west on TX Hwy. 238 from Port Lavaca as it exits town. Continue straight on TX 238, which eventually becomes TX Hwy. 316.

Continue on Hwy. 316 for approximately 5.5 miles before turning left when you reach Farm to Market Road 2760. Once on FM 2760, travel approximately one mile, then turn right on Vivian Stevens Rd. Make an immediate left around the curve once on Vivian Stevens, and then an immediate right around the curve. The beach will be on your left in a few feet.

C. Indianola Beach Go west on TX Hwy. 238 from Port Lavaca as it exits town.

Continue straight on TX 238, which eventually becomes TX Hwy. 316. Continue on Hwy. 316 for approximately eight miles, then turn right on Brighton Avenue. Stay on Brighton Avenue for about a mile, and the beach will be on your left.

D. King Fisher Beach at Port O’Connor From Port Lavaca, head west on TX Hwy. 238 out of town. Follow Hwy. 238 and when you reach the flashing yellow lights at the intersection of TX Hwy 316, turn right, which will still be Hwy. 238. Follow Hwy. 238 for about one mile, then turn left on Farm to Market Road 1289. Continue on FM 1289 for just over 11 miles until it ends. From there, turn left on TX Hwy. 185. Continue on Hwy. 185 through Port O’Connor until it ends. Once it ends, turn left on Park Street. The beach will be on your right.

E. Seadrift Bayfront Park From Port Lavaca, head west on TX Hwy. 238 out of town. Follow Hwy. 238 and when you reach the flashing yellow lights at the intersection of TX Hwy 316, turn right, which will still be Hwy. 238.

Follow Hwy. 238 for approximately 10 miles, where it will “T” with TX Hwy. 185. Take a left on Hwy. 185 and you will reach Seadrift in approximately one mile. Continue on Hwy. 185 until you reach Main Street, and turn right. Follow Main Street until it intersects with Bay Street. Turn right on Bay Street, and the beach will be on your left.

Public Boat Ramps 1. Olivia 2. Point Comfort 3. Six Mile 4.* Lighthouse Beach 5. Bayfront Peninsula 6. Harbor of Refuge 7. Chocolate Bayou 8. Magnolia Beach 9. Port O’Connor 10. Seadrift Bayfront Park *A modest per vehicle fee is required for entrance to the Lighthouse Beach Park.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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3187 Hwy. 35 S. 361-550-8620

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OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK Mon.-Sat. 4:00 am-Noon Closed Sunday

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK Mon.-Sat. 5:30 am-11:00 am Closed Sunday

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Small Animal Practice 1015 State Hwy. 35, Port Lavaca, TX 77979

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Boarding Available By Appointment

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820 Porter Road, Port Lavaca, TX 77979

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

Voted Best Veterinary CliniC

COUNTY MUSEUM M U S E U M E X H I B I T S E D U CAT E S V I S I T O R S

BY MELONY OVERTON

The Calhoun County Museum, located at 301 S. Anne St., in Port Lavaca, will have exhibits this fall and winter, which will feature a Karankawan family and vintage and antique Christmas toys.

Life-size, fiberglass figures of a Karankawan mother, father and daughter are the newest additions to the county museum on permanent loan from the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin.

The father stands at six-feet, while the mother holds a bag of shrimp and the daughter a basket of fish.

“The museum called us and asked if we’d

like to have them because we are part of the La Salle Odyssey. Before she had it out of her mouth, I said yes. We went and picked them up,” said George Anne Cormier, museum director. “We wanted the figures because they’re our local Native American group.

They are what La Salle might have seen when he first came here. I think it will be a wonderful exhibit.”

Port Lavaca artist Lola Chaka’s large mural of a seascape as the backdrop for the exhibit is complete.

“We will try to make the exhibit as realistic as possible with grasses, plants and sand,”

Cormier said. “It will give people an idea of how they lived, what they ate and what kind of family units they had. The Karankawas loved children. Whenever their children died, they would mourn for a year. We do have a little girl with this.”

The father Karankawan figure came to the museum with a damaged leg to where it cannot stand. Cormier has found someone who can repair it.

“Hopefully that exhibit will be opening up soon,” she said. “The diorama is complete, and the stage is all set, so we should be able to put it up quickly.”

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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The museum also has a photo exhibit of the U.S. Coast Guard, the Lifesaving Station at Saluria and the county’s lighthouses at the Halfmoon Reef Lighthouse located on the grounds of the Bauer Community Center, located at 2300 North Highway 35.

The museum has anywhere from around 1,700 to 3,000 visitors a year, Cormier said.

“Most of them are interested in the Indianola exhibit because most of them who come through are of German extraction. They want to see where their relatives came in.

Then there are those people who follow the ‘La Salle Odyssey’ and visit all of the museums involved. A lot come in who are interested in the local history,” she said.

Artifacts including pictures and drawings belonging to former Calhoun County Judge Howard G. Hartzog Sr., which were donated to the museum by relatives, are part of a permanent display.

The exhibit includes his 1911 desk that was restored by the Junior Service League in 1967, a telephone from the courthouse tax office and an adding machine from the courthouse clerk's office, both used from 1910-59, and a cabinet from the old courthouse in Port Lavaca.

Much of the Calhoun County Museum collection deals with the history of Indianola.

Indianola was one of the busiest ports along the Gulf Coast until it was hit by hurricanes in 1875 and 1886. The hurricanes largely destroyed the town.

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A large diorama of Indianola has the locations of a number of the homes and businesses before the 1875 hurricane and a number of artifacts from the town after the hurricane. Along with the displays of the town, including a recreation of what the area looked like at the time, are items that have been found on the beaches.

The museum also has several displays entitled ‘The La Salle Odyssey’ with items found on the La Belle, a ship used by explorer Robert de la Salle. The ship was found in Matagorda Bay in 1995. The ship sank in 1686.

Several items from the ship can be found at the museum.

The exhibit also includes tallow made from beef or bison fat kept in a barrel on the ship used for cooking, tanning leather, soap and candle making and as a wood sealant. Other La Belle items include Atlantic cod and goose bones. A handmade reproduction of a musket from the 1680s, like that used by La Salle and his crew, round out the items on display.

One of the most popular items is the ThirdOrder Fresnel lens from the Matagorda Island Lighthouse.

A buffalo head, donated by the Floyd Paige estate, is another prominent feature of the museum. Paige, who was a Houstonite, also donated a rifle and powder horns to the museum. Other items in the museum are unique to Calhoun County, including handcrafted bedding and furniture that are over a century old.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

For more information, call the museum at 361-553-4689 or visit www.calhouncountymuseum.org

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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RV PARK LISTINGS

POJO’S LIQUOR Hwy. 35 & Travis, Port Lavaca

361-552-0032

BEER-GIFTS-WINE

MAGNOLIA BEACH The Bayshore 1301 N. Ocean Drive 512-944-7892

Waterfront RV 94 Bayfront Lane 855-444-1116

PORT LAVACA

Island Liquor & Gifts

Gateway RV Park 1620 W. Main 361-552-1388

11th & Adams (Hwy. 185) in Port O’Connor • 361-983-2747

BAKER’S LIQUOR 1300 W. Main Port Lavaca 361-552-2866

Coastal BarBer shop 1215 N. Virginia, Port Lavaca, 77979 361-482-0429

Lonestar RV Park 1334 Broadway 361-553-7808

OLIVIA Keller Bay RV Park 361-893-5801

PORT O’CONNOR 2RV Park 1402 Harrison 361-983-4688

Susan Ready Chuck Watkins Amy Cantu

Business Hours

Tuesday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - Noon.

La Antigua Mexican Restaurant (Formerly La Parilla)

737 N. Hwy. 35 361-552-7764

Mexican Food • Seafood • Steaks • Carry out Serving Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner Hours: Monday - Saturday 6 a.m to 10 p.m.; Sunday 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

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Lavaca Bay RV Park 1818 Broadway 361-552-4814

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

Lighthouse Beach and Bird Sanctuary 700 Lighthouse Beach Drive 361-552-5311

Sandollar RV Park 1103 Broadway Street 361-552-5150

Texas Lakeside RV Park 2499 W. Austin St. 361-551-2267

LaSalle’s Landing RV Park 2699 W. Adams Ave. 361-983-4854 Port O’Connor RV Park 110 Steve St. 361-983-2484

SEADRIFT

Bayou Bridge RV Park 211 E. Broadway 361-649-1060

Beacon 7 RV Park West Bay Avenue 361-785-2717

Beacon 44 RV Park Harrison and Druscilla 361-983-4247

Coastal Bend Motel & RV Park 201 N. Hwy. 185 361-785-4982

Dolphins of the Bay RV Park 112 S. 16th Street 361-983-4802

Lost Pelican RV Ranch 107 E. Broadway 210-262-3991

The Fishing Center Intracoastal Canal 361-983-4440

Breezy Palms Cottages & RV Park 101 E. Bay Ave. 361-550-6069

For information on how to have your park included in a future publication, email us at rvlisting@plwave.com

SALTWATER FISHING REGULATIONS DAILY BAG

SPECIES

INCH-LENGTH (MIN - MAX)

Amberjack, Greater ........................................................ 1 ............... 34 ............ N/L** Bass: striped, its hybrids and subspecies............................. 5*.............. 18............. N/L** Catfish, Channel and blue, their hybrids and subspecies....... 25*............ 12............. N/L** Catfish, Flathead.............................................................. 5 ............... 8............... N/L** Catfish, Gafftopsail.......................................................... N/L**........ 14............. N/L** Cobia............................................................................. 2................ 37............. N/L** Drum, black..................................................................... 5................ 14............. 301 Drum, red....................................................................... 3................ 20............. 281 Flounder: all species, their hybrids and subspecies2............. 5/22.......... 14............. N/L** Gar (alligator)................................................................. 1................................. N/L** Grouper, black................................................................ 4................ 24............. N/L** Grouper, gag.................................................................. 2 ............... 22............. N/L** Grouper, Goliath............................................................. 0................................. C&R*** Grouper, Nassau............................................................. 0................................. C&R*** Mackerel, king................................................................ 2 27............................ N/L** Mackerel, Spanish........................................................... 15.............. 14............. N/L** Marlin, blue.................................................................... N/L**........ 131........... N/L** Marlin, white................................................................... N/L**........ 86............. N/L** Mullet: all species, their hybrids and subspecies.................. N/L**........ N/L**........ 12 Sailfish............................................................................ N/L**........ 84............. N/L** Seatrout, spotted1 (N of FM457 Matagorda County)........... 10.............. 15............. 25 Seatrout, spotted1 (S of FM457)........................................ DAILY 5................

15............. 25 BAG Sharks: Note: the daily bag limit is 1 fish for all allowable shark species including Atlantic sharpnose, blacktip, and bonnethead. See Shark Regulations for identification tips.

Shark:Atlantic sharpnose, blacktip, bonnethead................... 1................ 24............. N/L** Shark: Hammerhead (smooth, great, scalloped)................... 1................ 99............. N/L** Shark: Other allowable shark species................................. 1................ 64............. N/L** Prohibited shark species: Atlantic angel, Basking, Bigeye sand tiger, Bigeye sixgill, Bigeye thresher, Bignose, Caribbean reef, Caribbean sharpnose, Dusky, Galapagos, Longfin mako, Narrowtooth, Night, Sandbar, Sand tiger, Sevengill, Silky, Sixgill, Smalltail, Whale, and White............................................. 0................................. C&R*** Sheepshead.................................................................... 5................ 15............. N/L** Snapper, lane ................................................................. N/L**........ 8............... N/L** Snapper, red (pole & line - circle hook only)........................ 4 ............... 15............. N/L** Snapper, vermilion ..........................................................N/L**........ 10............. N/L** Snook............................................................................. 1................ 24............. 28 Tarpon ........................................................................... 1................ 85............. N/L** Triggerfish, gray.............................................................. 20.............. 16............. N/L** Tripletail.......................................................................... 3................ 17 ............ N/L**) Refer to Texas Parks & Wildlife site for more detail 1 www.tpwd.state.tx.us/regulations/outdoor-annual/fishing/ saltwater-fishing/saltwater-bag-and-length-limits * - In any combination N/L** - No Limit C&R*** - Catch & Release ONLY 2 Nov. 1-30 limit is 2; may be taken only by pole and line.

Serving Calhoun County Since 1956

YOUNG PLUMBING CO. SaleS & ServiceS 552-6733

603 W. Austin • Port Lavaca LICENSE: #M39944

young-plumbing@cableone.net Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

37

Express yourself … Painting. Quilting. Crocheting.

Just express yourself …

BY DD TURNER PORT LAVACA WAVE

If you are looking for a way to satisfy a need to create there are several options in Calhoun County.

PORT LAVACA ART GUILD The Port Lavaca Art Guild was established in 1962 to promote appreciation and art instruction for adults and children.

“The camaraderie is really neat and there’s lots of encouragement,” said Carol Haschke, who has been a member for nearly three years after retiring from teaching.

Brenda Dworaczyk noted the guild is “an encouraging place. Their members care about each other.”

The guild offers instruction in pastels, watercolor, oils, pottery, stained glass and more.

“It is a good reason to get out.

You get to know the people; they encourage you in your art.

If you just do it on your own, you can get discouraged,” Rita Adelman said, noting she started coming because she is a lifelong learner.

“I learn something every time I come,” she said.

“Anybody who enjoys art, appreciates art or likes to dabble in art should come.

You don’t know what kind of talent is there until you start,” said Haschke.

The guild puts on an Art Show each year and offers summer art camps during the summer.

OILS INSTRUCTOR ARTIST TOMMY G. THOMPSON HELPS CAROL HASCHKE WITH HER WORK DURING A RECENT SESSION.

Call Beefore It’s A Quilt at 361-552-1350 Facebook: Calhoun County Art Guild RITA ADELMAN GIVES HER PIECE A CRITICAL EYE DURING A RECENT CLASS.

Port Lavaca Art Guild 308 Mahan St. • 361-552-4378 Facebook: Port Lavaca Art Guild CALHOUN COUNTY QUILT GUILD The Calhoun County Quilt Guild meets monthly at the First United Methodist Church in Port Lavaca.

The Calhoun County Quilt Guild was established in 1988 to assist people who want to learn the art of quilts or who want to

38

hone their skills.

“The guild is like a family. We help and support each other,” said Jean Wehmeyer, president of the guild and owner of Beefore It’s A Quilt.

The guild offers retreats, trips to quilt shows and workshops as well as the camaraderie of like minds piecing together a quilt.

As a storeowner, Wehmeyer said she likes the options and helping people think outside the box on fabrics and colors.

“I like to help people pick things out, not everybody is good with color selection.

Sometimes they see the pattern and think it has to be those colors, but I try to get them to think outside the box.”

Their work is often donated, Wehmeyer said. She noted a quilt was made to raise money for the Humane Society of Calhoun County and the members stitched together patriotic quilts, which were presented to local veterans in November.

PORT LAVACA ART GUILD MEMBER BRENDA DWORACZYK WORKS ON HER PIECE AT THE GUILD’S BUILDING DURING A RECENT CLASS.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

THE KNOTTY GROUP The Knotty Group meets twice weekly at the Calhoun County Public Library in Port Lavaca This group was created recently to bring together people who like to crochet, knit, latchhook or needlepoint.

“That’s kind of what we do here, we share our projects, show each other stitches help each other out teach new ones,” said Karen Castaneda, also a founder of the group, who said her grandmother taught her the basic granny square and then she taught herself more over 30 years of crocheting.

No skill level is required to join and the members are glad to share their skills with those wishing to learn.

LANYINE SAJOUS DISCUSSES KAREN CASTANEDA’S PROJECT AT A RECENT MEETING OF THE KNOTTY CLUB AT THE CALHOUN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY.

KAREN CASTANEDA AND LANYINE SAJOUS WORK ON THEIR PROJECTS AT A RECENT MEETING AT THE CALHOUN COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY. SAJOUS’ CIRCLES WILL BECOME THE COVER OF CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS WHILE CASTANEDA WORKS ON A COMPLICATED BLANKET.

QUILTED CHRISTMAS BALLS AND QUILTS HAND IN BEEFORE IT’S A QUILT.

AN OCEAN THEMED QUILT HANGS IN BEEFORE IT’S A QUILT.

JEAN WEHMEYER, OWNER OF BEEFORE IT’S A QUILT, STANDS BY ONE OF HER CREATIONS THAT HANGS IN THE STORE.

“People who don’t think they can do it, they can. You don’t have to have any artistic experience or anything like that,” said member Lanyine Sajous, who was taught the basics by her

JEAN WEHMEYER HOLDS UP A QUILT MADE BY A GUILD MEMBER THAT WAS DONATED TO VETERANS.

mother and then taught herself to read patterns, learn new stiches and all the rest. “The patterns tell what to do, patterns show which color to pick if you are not good picking colors.”

JEAN WEHMEYER HOLDS UP A QUILT MADE BY A GUILD MEMBER THAT WAS DONATED TO VETERANS.

If you want to check it out, call the library for the day and time or check their Facebook page.

And Facebook: The Knotty Group

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

39

who’s who AROUND TOWN A GUIDE TO NEWCOMER INFORMATION

ELECTRICITY AEP (877) 373-4858 Reliant Energy: (866) 222-7100 TXU: (800) 818-6132 Victoria Electric Co-op: (361) 573-2428 NATURAL GAS CenterPoint Energy centerpointenergy.com or (800) 427-7142 TELEPHONE Frontier Communications Residential: 855-345-9338 AT&T Residential: (800) 222-0300 Commercial: (800) 222-0400

WATER AND SEWER Port Lavaca Service Billingand Connects, 202 N. Virginia (361) 552-9793,ext. 236 Port Lavaca Maintenance and Repair, 800 N. Commerce (361) 552-3347 Seadrift Service (361) 785-2251 Point Comfort Service (361) 987-2661

GARBAGE COLLECTION Allied Waste Services (800) 640-2014 RECYCLING Calhoun County Recycling Center (361) 552-7791 VEHICLE REGISTRATION Tax Assessor and Collector Office 211 S. Ann; (361) 553-4433

DRIVER’S LICENSE Calhoun County Courthouse Annex 201 W. Austin (361) 552-5046 VOTER REGISTRATION Calhoun County, Elections Office 211 S. Ann, (361) 553-4440

CALHOUN COUNTY EMERGENCY TELEVISION CableOne of Port Lavaca (361) 552-9621 Direct TV: (888) 777-2454 Dish Network: (866) 271-3005

Medical Service (EMS) (361) 552-1140

Calhoun County Sheriff’s Department 333 S. Benavides, (361) 553-4646 Port Lavaca Fire Department Station #1, 800 N. Hwy. 35, (361) 552-4620 Station #2, 1501 W. Austin Street, (361) 552-3241 Port Lavaca Police Department 201 N. Colorado; (361) 552-3788

INTERNET CableOne of Port Lavaca (361) 552-9621 TISD.NET: (361) 552-2000 Time-Warner: (877) 646-8994

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Point Comfort Police Department, Point Comfort (361) 987-2345 Seadrift Police Department, Seadrift (361) 785-2069

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

SCHOOL ENROLLMENT PORT LAVACA Calhoun High School, Sandcrab Blvd., (361) 552-3775 Hope High School, 300 Alcoa (361) 552-7084 HJM Elementary Complexes (361) 552-5253

Jackson-Roosevelt Elementary, 1512 Jackson (361) 552-3317 Travis Middle School, 705 N. Nueces (361) 552-3784 Victoria College, Calhoun, County Center, 900 N. Virginia (361) 553-4316

PORT O’CONNOR Port O’Connor School (361) 983-2341 SEADRIFT Seadrift School (361) 785-3511

EMERGENCY NUMBERS All emergencies should be reported by using 9-1-1. However if a particular department is needed not regarding an emergency use the following numbers. The county has the Enhanced 911 system. This allows dispatchers to see the location and phone number of the person placing the call. You must still give them this information when you call.

O Y B R B AI O O In Smith Harbor

361-552-1504

Pregnancy HelP center

Owners:

400 E. Live Oak St., Port Lavaca, TX 77979

Boy

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you.” - Jeremiah 1:5

Poor Grill

Gary Terry, 731-459-0155 Dora Terry, 281-610-4502

BBQ Next to Poor Boy Bait

Owners: Gary Terry, 731-459-0155 Dora Terry, 281-610-4502

1 Wildlife Circle Austwell, TX 77950

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge

Open Daily 30 Minutes Before Sunrise to 30 Minutes After Sundown

361-286-3559

www.fws.gov/refuge/aransas

402 Broadway Monday - Friday: 9 a.M. - 5 p.M. Call 361-551-2102 For an appointMent

T

P

Grill

Now opeN For AppoiNtmeNts ✚ Free, confidential pregnancy testing ✚ Parenting classes for parents-to-be & their family ✚ Parents earn baby items while taking parenting classes “Pregnancy Help Center exists to meet the emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of individuals and families facing the challenges of pregnancy.”

www.PHCCrossroads.org

SUNDAYS:

Six Mile Assembly of God Church 5 miles north of Port Lavaca on FM 1090

Spanish: 9:15 a.m.

Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

Puppets for kids: 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Children’s Church: 11:15 a.m.

Fellowship meal & Birthday celebration First Sunday of each month, immediately after morning worship (Everyone brings something) Sunday Evening Worship: 6:00 p.m.

WEDNESDAYS: Start with a meal at 7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.

Adult Discipleship training, Praise & Prayer, Youth Service Bible training for Children

Call Johnny or Bonnie Kisiah, Pastor, at 361-552-5714 for more information.

Our Lady of the Gulf Scholarships Catholic School Available All Faiths Welcomed

Academics

♦ Hands-on Learning ♦ Advanced Technology ♦ Challenging Academics ♦ Awesome Instructional Field Trips

Performing & Fine Arts

Faith

♦ Strong Moral Environment ♦ High Behavioral Standards

Call today for more information about becoming a Mariner!

♦ Music & Band Classes ♦ Vocal & Bell Choirs ♦ Arts Classes ♦ Community Performances for Grades PreK-8th

Pre-Kinder - Eighth Grade Fully Accredited

301 S. San Antonio St., Port Lavaca ● 361-552-6140 ● www.olgmariners.org Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

41

Beach Safety

Where To Dine

Have fun at the beach but know the dangers so you can come back.

The number one danger is drowning, ranking fifth among the leading causes of unintentional injury death in the United States. Constantly watch children when swimming or playing near water. They need a certified lifeguard or responsible adult within reach. Children under the age of 14, and all weak or non-swimmers should wear U.S. Coast Guard approved life jackets.

Rafts, inner tubes, water wings, floaties and other inflatable items are NOT proper safety devices.

Learn to Swim Never swim alone. Even the best swimmers occasionally need help. If you get a leg cramp or find yourself in some kind of difficulty, you will be glad there is someone around. When possible, swim where trained lifeguards are on duty. Swimming from unguarded beaches is not always dangerous; it only means you must be more responsible for your own actions. Do not overexert yourself. Swimming when you are tired is asking for trouble. Do not overestimate your swimming ability. Also keep in mind that distances on water are deceiving; the other side of the swim area is farther away than it looks. Learn about the local area before you go swimming. You may be an expert in a swimming pool, yet could find yourself in a potential drowning situation in the surf when confronted with rip currents, sand bars and deep holes.

Rip Currents A rip current is a powerful, narrow channel of fast-moving water that can move up to eight feet per second. Swimmers can be quickly pulled offshore, suffering fatigue when they fight the current trying to swim straight back to the beach. Once fatigue sets in, the risk of drowning increases because the swimmer is unable to keep themselves afloat or swim to safety. Many people have died trying to rescue rip current victims. If you see someone in trouble, yell instructions on how to escape, throw the victim something that floats and have someone call 9-1-1.

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PORT LAVACA

BAYSIDE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore.

They can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea.

The ships traveling up and down the Matagorda Ship Channel can cause dangerous currents for swimmers, particularly at Magnolia Beach near Indian Point. Always be aware of boating and shipping traffic when visiting any beach by a navigation channel.

Stings, Bites and Cuts Shark bites are rare events and headline news. On the Texas Gulf Coast there is a greater chance of winning the lottery or being struck by lightning than being bitten by a shark. Stinging jellyfish are a much greater danger. The severity of the sting depends on the species of jellyfish and the reaction of the victim to the toxin. Stingrays often frequent shallow waters and can thrust a sharp shaft into a foot or ankle when stepped on. One good preventive action is to shuffle your feet while wading to scare the stingray away. Broken glass and sharp shell pieces are everywhere. To prevent unnecessary cuts, swimmers, particularly children, should always wear some type of footwear because shoes no not bleed.

Breakout A few good rules to follow anywhere along the beach include: Do not swim in water more than waist deep; stay in even shallower water if you can’t swim Do not swim if you’re tired, sick, or if you’ve been using alcohol or drugs Do not swim in boating areas or near boat ramps Do not swim during thunderstorms or in strong wind Stay at least 100 feet away from rock jetties, groins and piers.

Strong currents form there, and they cut deep holes in the bottom.

Be alert for sea animals that may stick, bite, sting, cut or even shock you. Get out of the water if you encounter one and seek immediate medical attention if you are injured.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

2055 N. Hwy. 35 361-552-7177 Sunday - Thursday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 11 .m. - 10 p.m.

Seafood, Steaks & Burgers

BUSH’S CHICKEN

803 State Hwy. 35, Port Lavaca, TX 77979 361-482-0887 Monday- Saturday: 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sunday, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

CASA JALISCO

1928 W. Main St., Port Lavaca, TX 77979 361-482-0826 Monday-Thursday: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Sunday: 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

DONUT PALACE 2 LOCATIONS

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK Mon.-Sat. 4:00 am-Noon Closed Sunday 361-552-0936 ——— OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK 113 N. Hwy. 35, Port Lavaca, TX OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK Mon.-Sat. 5:30 am-11:00 am Closed Sunday 361-552-6772

LA ANTIGUA

737 N. Hwy. 35 361-552-7764 Monday-Sunday: 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Breakfast: 6-10 a.m.

Mexican food - breakfast, lunch, dinner

LUBY’S INSIDE MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER 815 N. Virginia St.

361-552-6713 Breakfast: Monday- Friday: 6:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m.

Lunch: Monday - Sunday: 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Home style classic food

MEXICO TIPICO

421 N. Virginia St. 361-552-5713 Monday: 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.; TuesdaySunday: 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Mexican food

THE PANTRY

702 N. Virginia 361-552-1679 Tuesday - Friday: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Lunch specials, catering, party trays, take-out

POOR BOY GRILL 400 E. Live Oak 281-610-4502 or 731-459-0155 Barbecue SKILLETS 2090 Hwy. 35 N. 361-551-2009 Sunday - Thursday: 6 a.m.-11 p.m.

Friday & Saturday: 24 hours Breakfast, lunch & dinner full buffet SUBWAY 306 Hwy. 35, 361-552-7300 Inside Walmart on Hwy 35 361-552-6073 Sandwiches, salads & soups TEXAS TRADITIONS CAFE & BAKERY 234 E. Main St. 361-553-5555 Monday - Wednesday: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. & 5-8:30 p.m.

Thursday & Friday: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. & 5-9 p.m. Saturday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sundays: Closed Steaks, Seafood, Chicken Salad Bar, Pies & Assorted Pastries THE RED BARN

3187 Hwy. 35 361-550-8620 Wednesday Through Friday 11-2 Lunch Buffet Thursday: 6-9 Burgers FRIDAY: 6-9 Steaks

WAGON TRAIN 145 N. Hwy. 35 Bypass 361-552-3056 Monday - Friday: 6 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday: 6 - 10 a.m.

Homestyle fare

SEADRIFT

BUBBA’S CAJUN STYLE SEAFOOD 1142 Hwy. 185 E. 361-785-2645 Tuesday - Sunday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Closed Mondays Seafood, Steaks, Catering

Lubbock 530 Miles

Austin 150 Miles

El Paso 695 Miles

Houston 130 Miles

Port Lavaca Calhoun County Midland 475 Miles

San Antonio 145 Miles

Dallas 325 Miles

Corpus Christi 80 Miles

Port Lavaca, the seat of Calhoun County, is not too far from wherever you are in Texas. Located right in the middle of the Texas Gulf Coast, Calhoun County is under a three hour drive from five international airports and easily accessible from all major cities in the state.

Whether you are planning a short vacation or a long one, Calhoun County with its rich place in Texas history offers a laid back climate for the best in bay and offshore fishing, birding, eating, resting and relaxing. Come to Port Lavaca to find out why “It’s a State of Mind.”

VisitPortLavaca.com 361•552•2959 Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

43

‘Tis the Season for Oysters

BY RHONDA CUMMINS

Tradition tells us to “Only eat oysters in months with the letter “R” making shellfish “season” from September to April. As the water temperatures cool, the oysters fatten up making February the peak of the Texas season that opens November 1 and closes April 30. Ninety percent of the oysters harvested off public reefs in Texas come from the Matagorda, San Antonio and Galveston Bay systems. Calhoun County is perfectly situated to harvest, process, and ship the eastern oysters, also known by their scientific name Crassostrea virginica.

Oysters are a vital part of the estuary ecosystem. They form extensive reefs that provide habitat for many fish, invertebrates, and other small marine animals including grass shrimp, crabs, oyster drills and hooked mussels. As filter feeders, oysters draw water in through their gills to eat and this process also removes large particles

44

from the water, reducing turbidity. Each adult oyster can clean up to 50 gallons of water a day or the amount of water that would fill an average bathtub. Sediments and nitrogen can cause problems in bay waters but the oyster either consumes these pollutants or processes them into nonharmful material on the bay bottom that provides food for other organisms.

Grilled, fried, baked, or stewed in a gumbo or chowder, there is no wrong way to cook an oyster. Each year millions of Americans enjoy raw oysters with a squeeze of lemon or perhaps a dash of hot sauce. However, when eaten raw, oysters have certain health risks because of the bacterium Vibrio vulnificus which is found naturally in coastal waters.

Some people with certain medical conditions are at high risk for becoming seriously ill and dying from eating raw oysters. Highrisk individuals include anyone with liver

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

disease, alcoholism, diabetes, cancer, or a compromised immune system. They should not eat raw oysters but can still enjoy eating oysters that have been thoroughly cooked. Oysters are nutritious taking only four oysters to provide a complete daily supply of copper, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus and zinc. They are also rich in vitamins A, C, D and B-12.

As for the “R” rule for shellfish, particularly oysters, dates back to a 16th century cookbook called the Dyets drie dinner. The author Henry Buttes sprinkled his book with topics for table conversations and included interesting information about the foods. For oysters he noted that they were “unseasonable and unwholesome” in the months without the letter R in their name because they were spawning. This is true and the first reason for oysters being a winter harvest. When water temperatures

rise above 68 degrees, oysters are spurred to spawn. The summer months of May, June, July and August are prime time to replenish the oyster population as the bivalves go through their reproductive cycle. This process can sacrifice up to 75 percent of the oyster flesh making the meat milky and limp with a weak and watery flavor.

The second reason for the adage to survive over 400 years is tied to the increase in bacterial content in the warmer months.

Bacterium that grows in estuaries and along the coast including vibrio vulnificus, as well as red tide, an alga that is known to be toxic in humans, can cause food poisoning and paralytic shellfish poisoning. Of course before the age of ice and refrigeration, it

was not safe to eat raw seafood that had been sitting out on the docks or in a warm room for an unspecified period of time. Such practices greatly increased the chances of being served a bad oyster.

Money is the third reason for a winter season on oysters. Considered one of the great celebration foods, rich and poor people have ordered them on festive and romantic occasions over the centuries.

Many European Christmas traditions include oysters on the menu throughout the holidays. Since oysters are at their prime in the winter months, consumption and prices are higher.

The Texas oyster fishery is the second largest commercial fishery in the state. In

2016, Texas oyster fishermen harvested 2.5 million pounds of oyster meat (minus the shell) valued at $13.7 million. In good years, harvests have been more than 6 million pounds. In an average year, the oyster fishery contributes approximately $19 million to the Texas economy which is a vital to the coast.

Winter is the perfect time to catch the action at the city harbor as the oystermen bring their sacks to the docks. Currently, the crews can oyster Monday through Friday from sunrise to 3:30 p.m. The bag limit is 30 sacks of oysters per day. A sack is defined as no more than 110 pounds of oysters (including dead oyster shell and the sack).

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

45

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

Where To Worship POINT COMFORT ST. ANN CATHOLIC CHURCH 700 Lamar St. 361-552-6140 Mass: Sunday: 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday: 9 a.m.

PORT LAVACA

Coastal Treasures For You & Your Home!

Open at 10 a.m.

1304 Adams, Port O’Connor, TX 77982

361-983-2696

treasurechestpoc@gmail.com Owners: Joanie & Kirk Morgan FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: The Treasure Chest POC

& Unique Gifts For All Occasions!

• Quilt Shop-only Fabric • patternS • notionS • claSSeS For all Skill levelS • WilloW tree • kitchen Decor • Jim Shore • tropical/nautical Decor 119 E. Main Street, Port Lavaca ■ 361-552-1350 Monday-Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. ■ Saturday: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

ALAMO HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH 110 Trinity Shores 361-552-2532 www.ahbcportlavaca.com Sunday morning: Bible study 9:45 a.m.

Worship: 10:50 a.m.

Sunday night: 6 p.m.

Wednesday night: 6:30 p.m.

COWBOY FELLOWSHIP 2411 State Hwy. 35 S. 830-570-3444 Services: Sundays: 10:45 a.m.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 902 Calhoun St. 361-552-2931 Services: Sundays: 10:15 a.m.

Bible Study For All Ages: Sundays at 9 a.m. & Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m.

FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 814 N. San Antonio 361-552-7434 or 361-552-2805 www.plfumc.org Services: Sunday Morning: 8:30 a.m.: Traditional 9:39 a.m.: Contemporary 10:50: Traditional 9:40 a.m.: Sunday School For All Ages

OUR LADY OF THE GULF CATHOLIC CHURCH 415 W. Austin St. 361-552-6140 Mass: Monday - Friday: 8:05 a.m.

Saturday: 5:30 p.m.

Sunday: 8 & 10 a.m.

Sunday: Noon in Spanish SIX MILE ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH 5 miles north of Port Lavaca on FM 1090 361-552-5714 Spanish: 9:15 a.m.

Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.

Puppets for kids: 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Children’s Church: 11:15 a.m.

Fellowship meal & Birthday celebration First Sunday of each month, immediately after morning worship (Everyone brings something) Sunday Evening Worship: 6:00 p.m.

Wednesday: Meal at 7 p.m.

7:30 p.m.- Adult Discipleship Training, Praise & Prayer, Youth Service, Bible Training for Children

Port O’Connor ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH 101 N. Washington 361-552-6140 Mass: Saturday: 7 p.m.

Tuesday: 5:30 pm.

SEADRIFT ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC CHURCH 310 W. Cleveland St. 361-552-6140 Mass: Sunday: 8:30 a.m.

Thursday: 9 a.m.

Saturday: 7 p.m. in Vietnamese

EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

47

Look Up in the

Sky

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Superman! Not really but so many birds migrate through the area that Calhoun County once lead the nation for the number of birds recorded on the annual North American Migration Count for five consecutive years. Port O’Connor, Magnolia Beach, Magic Road, Coloma Creek, Powderhorn Lake, and Seadrift’s Cemetery Road (all within a 20mile radius) are key sites to see birds, as well as the nearby Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. Avian diversity in the county includes frigatebirds, wood storks, and

48

BY RHONDA CUMMINS

fulvous and black-bellied whistling ducks in summer and thousands of geese and Sandhill cranes that dominate the fields in winter to the delight of photographers. Other amazing birds include the endangered whooping crane and white pelicans.

Geese winter in Texas after a long migration route mainly from Canada and Alaska. A rice field is every waterfowl’s winter dream home. The managed wetland provides plenty of water and ideal habitat for ducks and geese. Leftover grain and other new plant growth after the harvest

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

provide an abundance of food for the herbivores. Geese are grazing birds that eat a variety of different items. They eat roots, shoots, stems, seeds, and leaves of grass and grain, bulbs, and berries. They also eat insects and Canada Geese can submerge their heads in water to graze on aquatic plants, sometimes eat small insects and fish. Larger than ducks, their legs are more forward on their body allowing them to walk and graze on grains, grasses and other vegetation on land. Like ducks, they have webbed feet, flattened bills and strong wings

for long flight. Young are hatched downcovered and can walk or swim a few hours after hatching. Geese of various species are labeled dark or light geese in the hunting regulations.

Cranes are large gray migratory birds with dark wingtips although they may appear white in some light. The adults have a bright red crown and a large dark bill.

Immature birds have a rusty crown and the back of the neck as well as rusty plumage on their back and wings. Their long neck extends straight forward in flight while the legs extend beyond their tail in flight. With a wingspan of five feet, their wing beat is slow. They may travel in pairs of two or in flocks of hundreds. They forage for seeds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, and insects in open grasslands, fields and wetlands. Sandhill cranes can be hunted in 192 of the 254 counties in Texas, including a small piece of Calhoun County outside the Zone C closure area.

This closure area is to help protect the endangered Whooping Crane Whooping cranes sometimes migrate with sandhill cranes but they are protected and should never be hunted. Federal and state fines and jail time can apply if you shoot at these birds. Standing near five feet tall, Whooping cranes will be the tallest birds you see. The adults have pure white bodies except for the patch of red on their reds and a black mustache. Juvenile birds will have some rusty colored feathers mixed with the white. The wingtips are black but the black does not extend all the way to the wing edge to the body. Their wingspan is approximately 7.5 feet and they have a slow and steady wingbeats.

Whoopers, as they are often called, fly with their long necks and long legs both fully extended in flock of two to seven.

These birds are omnivores with a diet that includes insects, shrimp, crabs, clams, snails, frogs, snakes, small fish, seeds, acorns, roots, berries.

One of the largest birds in North America can be found here during winter migration.

With a nearly nine foot wingspan, the White Pelican is similar to the Brown Pelican in shape but much larger, and very different in habits. Most noticeable they feed cooperatively in shallow areas and do not dive from the air for fish. In addition to eating a variety of baitfish, they also eat crayfish and salamanders. They can be distinguished from whoopers in flight because they fly with their long necks folded and their short legs do not extend beyond their tail. Their long yellow bill is distinctive as well as the black edgings on their white wings that extend almost to their body. White pelicans will often fly in flocks of twenty or more, soaring very high in the air, ponderously wheeling and circling in unison.

Enjoy the landscape with an eye to the sky. With a little practice and luck, you can enjoy some of the best winter birdwatching Texas while in Calhoun County.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

49

A helpful checklist for birders COMPILED BY BRUSH FREEMAN

PHOTO BY BILL HARVEY

KEY R=Rare P=Pelagic/Offshore H=Hypothetical

E=Extirpated/Extinct I=Introduced or Exotic

___ Black-bellied Whistling-Duck ___ Fulvous Whistling-Duck ___ Greater White-fronted Goose ___ Snow Goose ___ Ross’s Goose ___ Cackling Goose ___ Canada Goose ___ Trumpeter Swan (E) ___ Tundra Swan (R) ___ Wood Duck ___ Gadwall ___ Mallard ___ Mottled Duck ___ American Black Duck (R) ___ Blue-winged Teal ___ Cinnamon Teal ___ Northern Shoveler ___ Northern Pintail ___ Green-winged Teal ___ Canvasback ___ Redhead ___ Ring-necked Duck ___ Greater Scaup ___ Lesser Scaup ___ Surf Scoter ___ White-winged Scoter (R) ___ Black Scoter ___ Harlequin Duck (R) Jan. 29, 1945; Aransas NWR (likely mislabeled to Aransas Co.) ___ Long-tailed Duck (R) ___ Bufflehead ___ Common Goldeneye ___ Hooded Merganser ___ Common Merganser (R) Dec. 23, 1992 ___ Red-breasted Merganser ___ Masked Duck (R) ___ Ruddy Duck ___ Northern Bobwhite ___ Greater Prairie-Chicken (E) ___ Ring-necked Pheasant (RI) ___ Wild Turkey ___ Red-throated Loon (R) Dec. 19, 2004; Port O’Connor ___ Pacific Loon ___ Common Loon ___ Least Grebe ___ Pied-billed Grebe ___ Horned Grebe ___ Red-necked Grebe (R) ___ Eared Grebe ___ Western Grebe (R)

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Just as Calhoun County attracts visitors from all over, it also hosts a variety of avian species. The bird watching opportunities are sure to please even the most experienced wildlife seekers.

There are several options for those interested in watching the wildlife. Visit the Port Lavaca Lighthouse Beach and Bird Sanctuary, Magnolia Beach or even Matagorda Island State Park.

According to Brush Freeman, coauthor of The Texas Ornithological Society Handbook of Texas Birds, 429 species have been recorded in the county or

___ American Flamingo (R) ___ Black-capped Petrel (PR) ___ Cory’s Shearwater (P) ___ Great Shearwater (PR) ___ Sooty Shearwater (PR) ___ Audubon’s Shearwater (P) ___ Leach’s Storm-Petrel (P) ___ Band-rumped Storm-Petrel (P) ___ Red-billed Tropicbird (PR) ___ White-tailed Tropicbird (HP) Aug. 6-7,1937; Matagorda Island ___ Wood Stork ___ Magnificent Frigatebird ___ Masked Booby (R) 1st county record June 8,1885; Matagorda Bay ___ Northern Gannet (P) ___ Neotropic Cormorant ___ Double-crested Cormorant ___ Anhinga ___ American White Pelican ___ Brown Pelican ___ American Bittern ___ Least Bittern ___“Great White Heron” (R) A pure white phase of Great Blue Heron ___ Great Blue Heron ___ Great Egret ___ Snowy Egret ___ Little Blue Heron ___ Tricolored Heron ___ Reddish Egret ___ Cattle Egret ___ Green Heron ___ Black-crowned Night-Heron ___ Yellow-crowned Night-Heron ___ White Ibis ___ Glossy Ibis ___ White-faced Ibis ___ Roseate Spoonbill ___ Black Vulture ___ Turkey Vulture ___ Osprey ___ Swallow-tailed Kite ___ White-tailed Kite ___ Mississippi Kite ___ Bald Eagle ___ Northern Harrier ___ Sharp-shinned Hawk ___ Cooper’s Hawk ___ Northern Goshawk (R) Pre-1978 record; one in Port O’Connor 2009 reported

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

the counties’ offshore waters, although many of those were single occurrences, or once in a lifetime finds, that will likely not be repeated any time soon.

Some of the more popular birds in the area include roseate Spoonbills, reddish egrets, white-tailed hawks and whooping cranes. Use the list below to see what species you can find during your stay in Calhoun County. Special thanks to Brush Freeman for his help with the following listing of bird species that have been previously spotted in Calhoun County.

___ Harris’s Hawk ___ Red-shouldered Hawk ___ Broad-winged Hawk ___ Swainson’s Hawk ___ White-tailed Hawk ___ Zone-tailed Hawk (R) ___ Red-tailed Hawk ___ Ferruginous Hawk (R) ___ Rough-legged Hawk (R) ___ Golden Eagle (R) Jan. 16, 1993; Mar. 3, 2000 ___ Crested Caracara ___ American Kestrel ___ Merlin ___ Aplomado Falcon (I) ___ Peregrine Falcon ___ Prairie Falcon ___ Yellow Rail ___ Black Rail ___ Clapper Rail ___ King Rail ___ Virginia Rail ___ Sora ___ Purple Gallinule ___ Common Gallinule ___ American Coot ___ Sandhill Crane ___ Whooping Crane ___ Black-bellied Plover ___ American Golden-Plover ___ Pacific Golden-Plover (H) ___ Snowy Plover ___ Wilson’s Plover ___ Semipalmated Plover ___ Piping Plover ___ Killdeer ___ Mountain Plover (R) ___ American Oystercatcher ___ Black-necked Stilt ___ American Avocet ___ Northern Jacana (R) Dec. 10, 1992-April 22, 1993 ___ Spotted Sandpiper ___ Solitary Sandpiper ___ Greater Yellowlegs ___ Willet ___ Lesser Yellowlegs ___ Upland Sandpiper ___ Eskimo Curlew (E) ___ Whimbrel ___ Long-billed Curlew ___ Hudsonian Godwit ___ Marbled Godwit

___ Ruddy Turnstone ___ Red Knot ___ Sanderling ___ Semipalmated Sandpiper ___ Western Sandpiper ___ Least Sandpiper ___ White-rumped Sandpiper ___ Baird’s Sandpiper ___ Pectoral Sandpiper ___ Purple Sandpiper (R) ___ Dunlin ___ Stilt Sandpiper ___ Buff-breasted Sandpiper ___ Ruff (R) ___ Short-billed Dowitcher ___ Long-billed Dowitcher ___ Wilson’s Snipe ___ American Woodcock ___ Wilson’s Phalarope ___ Red-necked Phalarope (R) ___ Black-legged Kittiwake (R) ___ Sabine’s Gull (R) ___ Bonaparte’s Gull ___ Laughing Gull ___ Franklin’s Gull ___ Mew Gull (R) Mar. 4, 2005; Magnolia Beach ___ Ring-billed Gull ___ California Gull (R) ___ Herring Gull ___ Thayer’s Gull (R) ___ Lesser Black-backed Gull ___ Glaucous Gull (R) ___ Great Black-backed Gull (R) ___ Sooty Tern (R) ___ Bridled Tern (P) ___ Least Tern (P) ___ Gull-billed Tern ___ Caspian Tern ___ Black Tern ___ Common Tern ___ Arctic Tern (PR) Sept. 21, 1996 ___ Roseate Tern (R) Mar. 15, 1998 ___ Forster’s Tern ___ Royal Tern ___ Sandwich Tern ___ Black Skimmer ___ Pomarine Jaeger (P) ___ Parasitic Jaeger (P) ___ Long-tailed Jaeger (PR) ___ Rock Pigeon ___ Eurasian Collared-Dove ___ White-winged Dove ___ Mourning Dove ___ Passenger Pigeon (?E) ___ Inca Dove ___ Common Ground-Dove ___ White-tipped Dove (R) ___ Monk Parakeet (RI) ___ Yellow-billed Cuckoo ___ Mangrove Cuckoo (R) ___ Black-billed Cuckoo ___ Greater Roadrunner ___ Groove-billed Ani ___ Barn Owl ___ Flammulated Owl (R) ___ Eastern Screech-Owl ___ Great Horned Owl ___ Burrowing Owl ___ Barred Owl ___ Long-eared Owl (R) ___ Short-eared Owl ___ Lesser Nighthawk ___ Common Nighthawk ___ Common Pauraque

___ Common Poorwill (R) ___ Chuck-will’s-widow ___ Eastern Whip-poor-will ___ White-collared Swift (R) ___ Chimney Swift ___ Vaux’s Swift (R) Dec. 20, 2010; Port O’Connor ___ Black Swift (R) Apr. 11, 2006; Port O’Connor ___ Broad-billed Hummingbird (R) Dec. 5, 2010; Six Mile ___ Buff-bellied Hummingbird ___ Blue-throated Hummingbird (R) near Seadrift ___ Ruby-throated Hummingbird ___ Black-chinned Hummingbird ___ Anna’s Hummingbird ___ Costa’s Hummingbird (R) ___ Calliope Hummingbird (R) ___ Broad-tailed Hummingbird ___ Rufous Hummingbird ___ Allen’s Hummingbird (R) ___ Ringed Kingfisher (R) ___ Belted Kingfisher ___ Green Kingfisher ___ Red-headed Woodpecker (R) ___ Acorn Woodpecker (R) ___ Golden-fronted Woodpecker (R) ___ Red-bellied Woodpecker ___ Yellow-bellied Sapsucker ___ Red-naped Sapsucker (R) ___ Ladder-backed Woodpecker ___ Downy Woodpecker ___ Northern Flicker ___ Pileated Woodpecker ___ Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet (R) ___ Olive-sided Flycatcher ___ Eastern Wood-Pewee ___ Western Wood-Pewee (R) Sept. 24, 2000; offshore oil rig ___ Yellow-bellied Flycatcher ___ Acadian Flycatcher ___ Alder Flycatcher ___ Willow Flycatcher ___ Least Flycatcher ___ Cordilleran Flycatcher (R) ___ Black Phoebe (R) ___ Eastern Phoebe ___ Say’s Phoebe ___ Vermilion Flycatcher ___ Ash-throated Flycatcher ___ Great Crested Flycatcher ___ Brown-crested Flycatcher ___ Great Kiskadee ___ Couch’s Kingbird ___ Western Kingbird ___ Eastern Kingbird ___ Gray Kingbird (R) ___ Scissor-tailed Flycatcher ___ Loggerhead Shrike ___ White-eyed Vireo ___ Bell’s Vireo ___ Yellow-throated Vireo ___ Plumbeous Vireo (R) ___ Cassin’s Vireo (R) ___ Blue-headed Vireo ___ Warbling Vireo ___ Philadelphia Vireo ___ Red-eyed Vireo ___ Yellow-green Vireo (R) ___ Green Jay ___ Blue Jay ___ American Crow ___ Chihuahuan Raven (R) ___ Horned Lark ___ Purple Martin

___ Tree Swallow ___ Violet-green Swallow (RH) ___ Northern Rough-winged Swallow ___ Bank Swallow ___ Cliff Swallow ___ Cave Swallow ___ Barn Swallow ___ Carolina Chickadee ___ Tufted Titmouse ___ Black-crested Titmouse (R) ___ Verdin (R) ___ Red-breasted Nuthatch ___ Brown Creeper ___ Cactus Wren (R) May 11, 2004; Port O’Connor ___ Rock Wren (R) ___ Carolina Wren ___ Bewick’s Wren ___ House Wren ___ Winter Wren ___ Sedge Wren ___ Marsh Wren ___ Blue-gray Gnatcatcher ___ Golden-crowned Kinglet ___ Ruby-crowned Kinglet ___ Eastern Bluebird ___ Mountain Bluebird (R) ___ Veery ___ Gray-cheeked Thrush ___ Swainson’s Thrush ___ Hermit Thrush ___ Wood Thrush ___ American Robin ___ Gray Catbird ___ Northern Mockingbird ___ Brown Thrasher ___ Long-billed Thrasher ___ Curve-billed Thrasher ___ European Starling (I) ___ American Pipit ___ Sprague’s Pipit ___ Cedar Waxwing ___ Lapland Longspur (R) ___ Chestnut-collared Longspur ___ Smith’s Longspur (R) ___ McCown’s Longspur (R) ___ Ovenbird ___ Worm-eating Warbler ___ Louisiana Waterthrush ___ Northern Waterthrush ___ Golden-winged Warbler ___ Blue-winged Warbler ___ Black-and-white Warbler ___ Prothonotary Warbler ___ Swainson’s Warbler ___ Tennessee Warbler ___ Orange-crowned Warbler ___ Nashville Warbler ___ Virginia’s Warbler (R) Oct. 10, 1999 ___ MacGillivray’s Warbler (R) May 11, 2006; Port O’Connor ___ Mourning Warbler ___ Kentucky Warbler ___ Common Yellowthroat ___ Hooded Warbler ___ American Redstart ___ Cape May Warbler (R) ___ Cerulean Warbler ___ Northern Parula ___ Tropical Parula (R) ___ Magnolia Warbler ___ Bay-breasted Warbler ___ Blackburnian Warbler ___ Yellow Warbler ___ Chestnut-sided Warbler ___ Blackpoll Warbler

___ Black-throated Blue Warbler (R) ___ Palm Warbler ___ Pine Warbler ___ Yellow-rumped Warbler ___ Yellow-throated Warbler ___ Prairie Warbler ___ Black-throated Gray Warbler (R) ___ Townsend’s Warbler (R) ___ Black-throated Green Warbler ___ Canada Warbler ___ Wilson’s Warbler ___ Red-faced Warbler (R) ___ Yellow-breasted Chat ___ White-collared Seedeater (R) ___ Olive Sparrow ___ Green-tailed Towhee (R) ___ Spotted Towhee ___ Eastern Towhee ___ Cassin’s Sparrow ___ Chipping Sparrow ___ Brewer’s Sparrow (R) ___ Clay-colored Sparrow ___ Field Sparrow ___ Vesper Sparrow ___ Lark Sparrow ___ Black-throated Sparrow (R) ___ Lark Bunting (R) ___ Savannah Sparrow ___ Grasshopper Sparrow ___ Henslow’s Sparrow (R) ___ Le Conte’s Sparrow ___ Nelson’s Sparrow ___ Seaside Sparrow ___ Fox Sparrow (R) ___ Song Sparrow ___ Lincoln’s Sparrow ___ Swamp Sparrow ___ White-throated Sparrow ___ Harris’s Sparrow ___ White-crowned Sparrow ___ Dark-eyed Junco ___ Summer Tanager ___ Scarlet Tanager ___ Western Tanager ___ Northern Cardinal ___ Pyrrhuloxia ___ Rose-breasted Grosbeak ___ Black-headed Grosbeak (R) ___ Blue Grosbeak ___ Lazuli Bunting (R) ___ Indigo Bunting ___ Varied Bunting (R) Apr. 27, 1999; Port O’Connor ___ Painted Bunting ___ Dickcissel ___ Bobolink ___ Red-winged Blackbird ___ Eastern Meadowlark ___ Western Meadowlark ___ Yellow-headed Blackbird ___ Rusty Blackbird (R) ___ Brewer’s Blackbird ___ Common Grackle ___ Boat-tailed Grackle ___ Great-tailed Grackle ___ Shiny Cowbird (R) ___ Bronzed Cowbird ___ Brown-headed Cowbird ___ Orchard Oriole ___ Hooded Oriole (R) ___ Bullock’s Oriole ___ Baltimore Oriole ___ House Finch ___ Pine Siskin ___ Lesser Goldfinch ___ American Goldfinch ___ House Sparrow (I) ___ Nutmeg Mannikin (I)

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

51

Veterans memorial

BY JARED VAN EPPS

MEMBERS OF THE VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS POST 4403 AT THE VETERAN’S MEMORIAL IN PORT LAVACA, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2016. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4403 has many events planned for the veterans of Calhoun County and veterans outside the county in the fall/ winter seasons.

Veteran’s Service Officer, Ron Langford, said the VFW will be doing a “public” flag retirement at the Veterans Memorial at Bayfront Peninsula, Saturday, November 3, 10 a.m.

“We would love to have everyone from the public to show up,” Langford said.

“If they have flags if they like to properly dispose of, and then we will take care of it in a proper manner.”

The VFW will also have two events on Veterans Day, November 9, one at the high school for tribute to veterans in Calhoun County at 9 a.m., and they’ll have a veteran’s program at the VFW on Conrad Rd, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and with guest speaker, Marine and Vietnam Veteran, Roberto Barrera, according to Langford.

Langford said these events can show the veterans their appreciation to the public for their support of veterans.

“Port Lavaca and Calhoun County with our population we have

52

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

tremendous support.”

Langford said. “If we show or give something back to the public and to the community by our activities and the things that we do for the public, we just want to show our appreciation for them because they support us.”

Greg Falcon, Veterans Council Chairman and president, said they have several people from the public call and ask them about any events for veterans, and he added that the people that call “truly believe in participating” in these events.

“Some of our elective officials look for these events so they can attend, and they can respect a veteran by saying, thank you for your service,” Falcon said. “and they invite us to all their events, but this an event that everybody comes together,” Falcon added that these events would tend to attract veterans who are secluded that don’t like to come out.

“They will meet their friends, and only a veteran can know what another veteran is thinking and know how they are feeling because of what we went through and in our training,” Falcon said. “And

these are what these events are for is to kind of help to connect again to make sure that we’re not left out their alone.”

Langford said the marine veterans of Marine Corps League Detachment #540 in Calhoun County will participate in 243rd Birthday of the Marine Corp in Victoria for Marine Corps Ball, Saturday, November 10, from 5 p.m. to midnight, at The Knights of

Columbus Hall on 3610 N. Ben Wilson Street in Victoria.

In December, Langford said, the VFW will march and participate in the Port Lavaca Christmas Parade, Friday, December 7, at 6 p.m. on Pearl Harbor Day, for the public.

Langford said what makes these events special is the “connection” between veterans.

“I found that it doesn’t make any

difference from where I sit here as the veterans service officer, a veteran is a male or female, they come in they connect together,” Langford said.

Langford added that Veteran’s Services encourage our veterans to join a service organization like the American Legion and VFW to meet with other veterans so they can connect.

THE VFW HOLDING FLAG RETIREMENT CEREMONY AT TRAVIS MIDDLE SCHOOL, APRIL 7, 2016 (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

53

Fitness

BY ROSS STAPP

YMCA

Break the heat, but not the sweat and try out the variety of gyms Calhoun County offers.

Break the heat, but not the sweat and try out the variety of gyms Calhoun County offers.

Calhoun has four gyms with each on of them bringing something different to the table. From strength training, weight training, cardio to CrossFit, Calhoun can offer any type of fitness.

a nursery Monday through Saturday with hours of operation varying.

The gym offers group fitness classes that include: Step, Yoga, Zumba, Piloxing, Kettlebells, boot camp, cycle classes and many more.

The YMCA is located on 713 Texas Highway 35.

YMCA The YMCA is the biggest of the four gyms in Calhoun, and can placate all types of fitness.

The gym is has a couple squat racks, an array of dumbbells, the biggest selection of weight loaded and cable machines, treadmills, bikes and ellipticals.

The YMCA is unique because it has an indoor pool and indoor basketball court, which are available during business hours.

The hours of operation at Calhoun County’s YMCA on Monday through Thursday is 5 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. Friday the gym and amenities are open 5 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday the gym opens its’ doors at noon and closes at 5 p.m.

If you have children, no problem, bring them to the gym because the YMCA offers

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

MIDCOAST FITNESS AND SELF DEFENSE Midcoast Fitness and Self Defense is unique and a different kind of training for members or visitors.

The gym is not set on one-type of fitness, but brings different types of training a typical gym does not bring.

Gym owner Ron Regar teaches Next Level

MIDCOAST FITNESS AND SELF DEFENSE

fitness. It is a mixture of kettlebell, core conditioning and plyometric conditioning for athletic development for any sport.

Jimmy Heysquiredo heads up the diablo strength and conditioning programs.

The program develops overall strength, cardio vascular endurance and overall general health.

The other form of fitness Midcoast provides is primal strength and conditioning. The program is constructed by Kelsey Hochgraber that involves Olympic lifting along with functional training.

Midcoast Fitness and Self Defense is located at 123 W Railroad St. The gym is open Monday through Saturday. Gym operation hours differ, but Monday through Friday from 5:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday Midcoast has one class at 9 a.m.

“Our belief is that true wellness comes from core to extremity training and doing it safely and with correct form. No matter where you are with your physical fitness level we can help you scale the exercises and feel successful as you work towards your goals.”

ANYTIME FITNESS Anytime Fitness opened in Port Lavaca May 6 and had more than 500 members. The 24 hours seven days a week provides more than just convenience to your fitness desires.

Anytime Fitness is home to the only 24/7 gym in in the Calhoun County area and is located at 300 Tiney Browning Blvd.

Owners Patti and Robert Ragsdale, of Bay City opened the gym and hired manager Alysia Fikes to manage the gym.

Fikes is a certified health and wellness coach, personal trainer, and a nutrition coach and counselor.

ANYTIME FITNESS Anytime Fitness offers several different ways to train. They offer free weights, full rack of dumbbells, weight loaded machines, cable and pulley resistance equipment, treadmills, elilipticals, bikes and a virtual video studio. Anytime Fitness also has a tanning bed to keep the tan going through the cold seasons.

The virtual video studio provides over 300 videos to choose from, anything from yoga, pilates, aerobics, weight training, cardio and cycling.

TOPWATER CROSSFIT The newest fitness edition to the Calhoun County area is Topwater CrossFit. Topwater CrossFit is located on 2139 W. Main Street.

Cody Maddux and Lloyd Alford both natives to the Calhoun County area opened Topwater CrossFit in early September and

has had a big success.

Maddux and Alford are both CrossFit coaches and are level one CrossFit certified.

CrossFit is a mix breed of different facets of the fitness world, but it is a separate entity in itself.

“CrossFit is a strength and conditioning program. It is functional movements performed at high-intensity to increases work capacity across broad time and modal domains. It is a broad general population fitness program. It works for everybody across the board. We work on all of your fitness domains, whether it be strength, cardiovascular, flexibility, power and stamina,” Alford said.

Topwater CrossFit is open Monday through Saturday and has multiple class times per day. Class times are: 5:00 a.m.

6:00 a.m. 8:00 a.m. 12:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m.

TOPWATER CROSSFIT Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

55

PORT LAVACA

Parks

ONE OF THREE OF LIGHTHOUSE BEACH’S PARKS SITS ON THE SAND OF LIGHTHOUSE BEACH. (ROSS STAPP/WAVE PHOTO)

HAVE SOME FUN IN THE SUN WITH THE SPLASH PAD AND PLAYGROUND AT LIGHTHOUSE BEACH. (ROSS STAPP/WAVE PHOTO)

RIGHT ON THE BAYFRONT PENINSULA PARK, THE PIRATE PLAYGROUND IS A MAIN ATTRACTION IN THE CITY, WHICH HAS A SPLASH PAD RIGHT NEXT TO IT. (ROSS STAPP/WAVE PHOTO)

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

FOUND IN THE MIDDLE OF THE BROOKHOLLOW ESTATES SUB-DIVISION, THE RECENT NEW PARK HAS A PLAYGROUND AND EXERCISE PARK. (ROSS STAPP/WAVE PHOTO)

PORT O’CONNOR The boats glide across the water with lights twinkling across their bows, masts and railings reflecting in the water of the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.

Christmas cheer comes floating in at Port O’Connor.

It is a coastal Christmas tradition at its best in the “Best Kept Secret On The Coast” community.

This year’s event will be Saturday, Dec. 1, starting around 6:45 p.m., when darkness has fallen.

This is the 27th year for the event that is sponsored by the Port O’Connor Chamber of Commerce.

Around 20 vessels – from pleasure boats to working shrimp boats – are expected to participate.

Categories include Best Overall, Most Spirited, Most Unique, Best Commercial, Best Large Pleasure, Best Medium Pleasure And Best Small Pleasure Boats.

To enter the parade, call Bill Tigrett at 361-983-2671.

Port O’Connor, on the southernmost tip of Calhoun County, attracts a diverse group of visitors from sports fishermen to birding enthusiasts. In addition, the community welcomes Winter Texans to the mix each year.

During the winter, the community hosts a Floating Christmas Parade and in the summer it welcomes Wounded Warriors to its environs. It also hosts a 4th of July Fireworks display and several fishing tournaments including Poco Bueno.

Port O’Connor is on the edge of the second largest bay system in Texas and offers avid fishermen several good spots including Matagorda Bay, Espiritu Santo Bay and San Antonio Bay. This bay system has the best natural passes or entries to the Gulf of Mexico

on the Texas Coast. These include Pass Cavallo and the Matagorda Ship Channel Jetties (Big Jetties). Pass Cavallo is the only natural deepwater pass on the Texas Gulf Coast.

October is known as “Red October” because of the large amount of redfish available and fall is the busiest time of year for local fishing and hunting guides.

Undeveloped estuaries such as Powderhorn Lake, Coloma Creek, Pringle Lake and Conti Lake are part of the landscape in addition to the bay and gulf areas.

Along the beautiful beaches around Port O’Connor fishermen find excellent places to wade and surf fish When the weather became too rough, fishermen can still go to Espiritu Santo Bay, the little jetties or the fishing pier in Port O’Connor where the protected areas off a save haven.

Port O’Connor offers several bait docks, many places to obtain a license and fishing guides to help you put it to good use.

Not only anglers come to this fishing community. Port O’Connor attracts birders. Throughout the town, along Boggy Bayou and Sundown Island, known locally as Bird Island, visitors will see at least 18 species of birds.

During the summer, an estimated 37 species of waterfowl, songbirds and shore birds are known to nest near Port O’Connor.

The beaches also are good for another pastime – beachcombing. Good sites are the jetties along the Intracoastal Waterway, the gulf beaches adjoining Pass Cavallo and Matagorda Island.

Port O’Connor also offers vacation rentals in the form of houses, town homes, condominiums, cottages and cabins.

The fishing village has a hometown feel, even to newcomers. So drop in and spend a little time in Port O’Connor.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Seadrift Seadrift is located in the southern part of Calhoun County.

Although it us a relatively small town, the people, activities and food bring it to a life of fun.

The city got its name from the debris that was blown in from heavy storms in the Gulf of Mexico and would settle on the shoreline.

Possibly on of the biggest attractions in Seadrift is the quality of fishing that can be found in the San Antonio Bay that surrounds the city’s shoreline.

A big fishing spot can be found across from Bay Avenue close to the Beach Front Pavilion Park. The Seadrift fishing pier took one on the chin during Hurricane Harvey, but did not let Harvey get the best of it.

The pier’s T-head was damaged and is closed to the public. Due to an electrical issue, the pier will remained closed until the city can repair it.

Fishing in the saltwater of San Antonio Bay, it play host to an array of game fish.

There is the battle with the coveted red drum or its cousin the black drum. Both fish can grow to fairly big lengths. The spotted or speckled trout is an entertaining fish to hook, and is a south Texas favorite.

The southern flounder is a different looking fish that feeds on the ocean floor, and can either be caught with a fishing pole or a gigging stick.

Another popular game fish in the saltwater of Seadrift is the sheepshead. It has stripes, which is where the origin of its nickname ‘The Convict’ fish comes from. It has sharp spins and razor sharp gill coverings, so be careful when handling a sheepshead.

Another popular activity in the Seadrift area is birding.

As a Seadrift sign by the fishing pier says, ‘No matter where you look, feathered friends can be found.’ These include the great egret,

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The Seadrift fishing pier stands strong following Hurricane Harvey.

The pier is open to the public except for the end of the pier on the T-head. The pier is on the San Antonio Bay and can be found across from Bay Avenue.

A nearly exact size replica silhouette sits next to the Train Depot and Museum on Main Street in Seadrift.

Kayakers prepping to launch their kayaks at Calhoun’s RV Retreat in Tivoli, Texas. (Photo by Brigid Berger)

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

willet, American white pelican, roseate spoonbill, mottled duck, tricolored heron, Canada goose and the endangered whooping crane.

Many of the creatures in the bay often wind up on a table in one of the city’s local restaurants. Seadrift arguably has the best seafood in Calhoun County.

A top spot in Seadrift is Bubba’s Cajun Seafood, 1142 State Highway 185.

For some after-dinner fun head on over to the Beach Front Pavilion Park for more Seadrift entertainment.

From end to end there are cabanas with seating to enjoy the scenic view, while the children play on the playground and swing sets.

Seadrift is home to a historical and iconic museum – The Seadrift Train Depot and Museum on Main Street.

The depot was constructed in 1906 by St. Brownsville Mexican Railway, a subsidiary of the Frisco Lines.

The Depot ended operations in 1961. It was relocated to the city of Seadrift for preservation and use as a museum and visitor center.

The depot is not open yet, but has one of the city’s historical markers and a train engine silhouette.

Seadrift is also home to the end of the kayak trail starting from Calhoun’s RV Treat in Tivoli on 125 Haeber Ln, according to Allan Berger, Chairman and Board of Directors of the San Antonio Bay Partnership.

“It is probably most famous cause it is the last leg of the Water Safari,” Berger said.

“And the guys that have been paddling for 250 mile for 90 hours popping out of the river into the bay and that is the end of easy street.”

The Seadrift Kayak Trail opened in June of this year during Shrimp Fest, Berger said.

Berger said he rode the trail before, but he added the inspiration came from paddling with a group of water safari paddlers.

“It is really interesting,” Berger said. “The river pieces are undeveloped and wild feeling, and the bay is a shot when you come across it.”

Berger said that the trail is unique because it’s not like the coastal trail in Port O’Connor, and he added that isn’t like an upstream river, but a combination of both.

“A lot of paddlers like to do different things, and they can’t find a paddle experience like this.” Berger said.

The San Antonio Bay Partnership will have two paddling events in the month of November, according to Berger.

November 17, the Paddle the Guadalupe River—Thomaston River Road to Nursery for intermediate and experience paddlers.

The nine-mile paddle trail start at Thomaston River Road Bridge in Cuero and ends in Nursery and begins at 8 a.m. and last to 9 a.m.

November 23, the San Antonio Partnership will have the Full Moon Paddle in Port O’Connor for all level paddlers.

The paddling begins at 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm at Boggy Nature Park in Port O’Connor.

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Ducks a Plenty in Calhoun County

Calhoun County is prime hunting ground for a wide variety of ducks, and this season should be no different.

Kris Kelley, president and CEO of Castaway Lodge, said Calhoun County is the wintering grounds for 95 percent of the flyway migration for red head ducks.

“It is national and somewhat international, as well as in state demographic force. People come from all over the nation down (to Calhoun County),” Kelley said.

The county plays host to several different animals to hunt. Anything from ducks, goose and hog. Duck hunting reigns supreme over all other hunting in Calhoun, according to Captain Jake Huddleston of H2O Extreme Outfitters.

“Duck hunting is the most popular,” he said.

The array of ducks found in the area is like no other

A duck hunter show off his duck that he shot down.

(Contributed Photo)

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

counties around.

“Primarily we have pintail, wigeon, gadwall, blue and green winged teal, shovelers and blue bill,” Huddleston said about the types of ducks in Calhoun.

Kelley said that wind shooting is a passion for a lot of people, and it is something in their blood.

“Folks are introduced to that at a young age with their parents, grandparents, it just becomes tradition and heritage.” Kelley said Calhoun is a diverse county that is roughly 1,032 square miles, which spans from Seadrift to Point Comfort.

“As far as our area we have a huge expanse of marsh from north of Lavaca Bay all the way to Port O’Connor, Seadrift all the way down to Rockport. Down the Guadalupe and the Delta we have a lot of freshwater marsh,” he said.

“We have a lot of habitat for ducks. No matter what is planted here we are still going to have a lot of ducks. The bays themselves grow a lot of different grasses for the ducks that they like. They are always here,” he added.

The fall and winter seasons bring ducks from all around as they migrate to the warmer climates. According to Huddleston, it just depends on the weather on any given year.

“Nov. 3 is when it opens and we will do good. There will be teal here still and a few ducks will be arriving. Then depending on when we start getting the cold fronts, will depend on how much migrating we will get,” he said.

As the winter season grows longer at it gets colder is normally when the hunting is at its peak.

“Generally, from mid-December to January are kind of our colder months, so that is usually a little bit better time.

Sometimes November can really be good too. It all depends on how the fronts fall.”

November kicks off duck hunting season and in Calhoun County.

Hunters showing off the Sandhill Cranes they caught. (Contribute photo)

Three duck hunters showing off the ducks they have caught. (Contributed photo) Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Things to do in Calhoun County ARANSAS WILDLIFE REFUGE The Refuge Complex is comprised of over 115,000 acres including the Blackjack Peninsula (Aransas proper), Matagorda Island, Myrtle Foester Whitmire, Tatton and Lamar units. These areas provide vital resting, feeding, wintering and nesting grounds for migratory birds and native Texas wildlife. The refuge is world renowned for hosting the largest wild flock of endangered whooping cranes each winter. Other native species you can see on the Refuge include the American alligator, javelina, roseate spoonbill, white-tailed deer, armadillo and spectacular wildflowers.

BEACHCOMBING Many locals and tourists love to just roll up their pants and walk along the beach. There are many finds along the beach. The fun will never end in the many things and stories people tell of their beachcombing adventure.

CALHOUN COUNTY MUSEUM Some of the outstanding exhibits include the Fresnel lens from the 1852 Matagorda Island Lighthouse, an 8-foot diorama of the town of Indianola, and many more items dealing with the life and times of Calhoun County. They also an exhibit entitled the La Salle Odyssey which includes items from the small French ship Belle that ran aground in Matagorda Bay in 1687. The museum is located at 301 S. Ann Street in Port Lavaca.

CRABBING Magnolia Beach is the place to be for crabbing and has its own crabbing bridge. It is a very popular place for all ages to enjoy. There are several other places along the waterfront to crab but be sure to visit the bridge off N. Ocean Drive by Old Town Lake.

FISHING Calhoun County has some of the best natural passes or entries to the Gulf of Mexico on the Texas coast.

Its many bays, which include Lavaca, Keller, Cox, Matagorda, San Antonio, Carancahua, and Espiritu Santo, have an abundance of saltwater fish species to keep things interesting.

FORMOSA BIRD SANCTUARY – THIS IS IN JACKSON COUNTY The 245-acre Formosa-Tejano Wetlands, located off Hwy 172 near CR 482, habitat was dedicated during a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the chairman of the Wildlife Habitat

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

Council on Nov. 17, 1999. Located halfway between Houston and Corpus Christi on land owned by Formosa Plastics Corporation, the site provides a “wildlife sanctuary for indigenous wetland species, opportunities for wildlife education, and viewing access for birders and other enthusiasts,” reports Formosa Plastics.

GOLF The 9-hole course at the Hatch Bend Country Club facility just west of Port Lavaca features 3,054 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 36.

Hatch Bend golf course opened in 1957.

HALFMOON REEF LIGHTHOUSE Located at the corner of Hwy 238 S and Hwy 35 in Port Lavaca, this lighthouse once sat over Half Moon Reef in Matagorda Bay near Palacios and served seafarers from 1858 to 1942 when it was decommissioned.

The structure was salvaged from the bay in 1943. It was donated it to the Calhoun County Historical Commission in 1978 for use as a museum and the first restoration in 1979 was an Eagle Scout service project. In 1985, the lighthouse was placed atop its present piers and the encompassing porch was added. Halfmoon is the last remaining hexagonal screw pile type lighthouse built on the Texas Gulf Coast.

HISTORICAL MARKER TOUR There are over 50 historical markers and places to see in Calhoun County.

See marker guide on pages 24 and 25. – need to make sure page numbers are correct.

INDIANOLA FISHING MARINA Tucked away at the very end of Highway 316 is a fisherman’s paradise. The marina sits between Powderhorn Lake and Matagorda Bay and is a prime spot for trout, redfish, flounder and even duck hunting.

The lighted pier and covered patio are open 24 hours a day for anyone wishing to fish in the wee hours of the morning or even during a rainstorm.

INDIANOLA “THE GHOST TOWN” The city of Indianola began life at 1844 as a tent city called Carl’s Haven. It grew to a thriving port, rivaling that of Galveston before the town suffered a heavy blow during a cholera and yellow fever epidemic in 1852. Two devastating hurricanes hit in 1875 and 1886, leaving the town in ruins. All that remains of that thriving city are the cemetery and many of historical markers.

crabbing, picnicking, bird watching and looking out onto the bay. Watch the fishing boats return to the City Harbor after their day of shrimping.

LA SALLE MONUMENT Built in 1936, this 40’ Texas pink granite statue of the French explorer Robert de La Salle is located near the ghost town of Indianola on TX Hwy 316. It is made from the same granite as the state capital building in Austin.

SEADRIFT ART CENTER Visit the county’s most unusual business—a boat-shaped art gallery known as the Artboat. The gallery is made from a huge steel shrimp boat hull on a concrete slab right off Hwy 185 in Seadrift. The inside of the retrofitted vessel displays work by a variety of international artists and the grounds are dotted with colorful outdoor sculptures.

LIGHTHOUSE BEACH PARK While the lighted fishing pier was destroyed by Hurricane Harvey, the splash pad, playground and shallow swim area at the beach are all open.

There is also a mile long walking track that includes great views of the bay, marsh, and birding area.

LIVE THEATRE Port Lavaca Main Street Theatre is a great showcase for local talent.

A small group of passionate and dedicated people keep live theatre available in Port Lavaca. Several plays are performed throughout the year, including a children’s production during June.

SEADRIFT DRIVING TOUR In 2012, Seadrift celebrated its Centennial with a big anniversary celebration. Many historical markers were added during the Centennial and an historical tour was organized using the markers. The town also has 21 murals adorning public buildings that depict everything from oyster shucking to beachcombing. Check with City Hall for more information.

MAGNOLIA BEACH Whether you want to birdwatch, fish, and camp or simply escape from civilization, this natural shell beach is the place. Located about 11 miles south of Port Lavaca, the county maintains public restrooms and picnic shelters. Driving along the beach road, you can tune your radio to 1610 AM and hear pre-recorded K-YAK radio broadcasts that focus on the Lavaca/Matagorda Bay estuary and marine environment. Topics include general points of interest in the area, history, seasonal information and recreational opportunities.

BEACH SUNRISES AND SUNSETS This is an experience in itself, looking out over the bay or possibly the gulf; it seems as if the water touches the sun. You might be lucky enough to see an optical phenomenon called a green flash shortly after sunset or before sunrise. When conditions are right, for a second or two, the upper rim of the sun will appear green in color. This happens when the sun is almost entirely below the horizon, with the barest edge of the sun – the upper edge – still visible.

VETERANS MEMORIAL Visit the Calhoun County Veterans Memorial at Bayfront Peninsula Park, near the marina at the end of U.S. Highway 87, in Port Lavaca. The memorial bricks can be purchased by anyone who wishes to honor a veteran.

More information is available at the City Hall Water Department.

MAIN STREET Port Lavaca Main Street, Inc. is a nonprofit organization formed in September of 1989 to revitalize and preserve the historic downtown area of Port Lavaca. Due to the efforts of the Main Street Committee, the downtown area is once again beginning to thrive.

The area hosts a variety of businesses and is home to the oldest business in Port Lavaca, Melcher’s Hardware, which has been serving customers since 1917 and has been proclaimed a historic landmark.

NATURE TRAIL AT LCBP Take a walk on the nature trail in the wetland restoration area of Little Chocolate Bayou Park. If the ground is dry, you can make the loop and learn about the plants of the mid- and highmarsh. Read the ten ceramic signs installed by local students and enjoy this natural area. Watch for ground nesting birds, snakes and alligators.

PORT LAVACA ART GUILD The Guild is a resource for artists,

WATCH FOR SHIPS The Port of Port Lavaca-Point Comfort serves as a gateway to world markets for the Texas Mid-Coast Region. It is served by the Matagorda Ship Channel and the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway. Watch the bay for barges and ocean-going cargo ships that visit the port. professional, amateur, and novice, who live in or visit the region.

Members work in several media and frequently offer classes and workshops. They also sponsor a Summer Art Camp which fosters interest in the arts throughout the community and cultivates talents.

PORT LAVACA BAYFRONT PENINSULA PARK This large area at the end of U.S. Hwy 87 includes a pirate ship playground, covered pavilions, restrooms, boat ramp, and splash pad. The lighted fishing pier was destroyed by Harvey but it is still a great place for fishing,

WILDFLOWERS Take a drive down Texas Hwy 238 to Hwy 316 towards Indianola. At the right time of year, this stretch of highway is flush with bluebonnets, Indian blankets and paintbrushes, pink evening primrose which are also called buttercups, and many more.

Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Calhoun County Life • Winter 2018-2019

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Melissa Sterling — Manager LaVon Garcia • Joey Gregory Debbie Baldera • Kaddie Sandy Missie Landry • Michelle Grubert 2121 Sailboat • Port Lavaca, TX Phone: (361) 551-2300  Fax: (361) 551-2312