Coastal Bend Traveler

traveler FREE

Coas tal Bend

April, 2012 Vol. 1, Issue 8

Stop and Stay A While - Discover the Treasures in the C oastal Bend

Wings Over South Texas Air Show

About Us...

At the Coastal Bend Traveler, our mission is to highlight the tremendous amount of attributes, events, attractions and people that make our lives special. Our goal is simple: to encourage tourists to visit and stay a while as well as showcasing to local residents what wonders they may experience in their own backyard. By working closely with local event organizers, Chambers of Commerce and Convention & Visitors Bureaus, the Coastal Bend Traveler provides up-to-date information on area happenings in each monthly edition as well as around-theclock updates online at www. coastalbendtraveler.com.

The Coastal Bend is a unique, special place, and the Traveler tells our story better than anyone.

Nicole D. Perez Owner/Publisher

Brenda Poe News/Graphics

The Texas International Boat & Outdoors Show, now in its sixth year, will be taking place at the Corpus Christi Marina April 19 to 22.

Page 14

Lois Stephens Reporter

Johnny De La Zerda Jr. Reporter

Aaron M. Lopez Advertising Sales

Larry & Lanette Smallwood Consultants

Ph: 361- 668-NEWS(6397) Fax: 361- 664-3875

www.coastalbendtraveler.com Owned/Operated by Real Hometown Media, LLC

also this issue Salsa Festival

The 13th annual Salsa Festival in Three Rivers promises spicy, tasty fun April 14.

Page 13

Wildflowers of South Texas

A pictorial look at the wildflowers that grow in the Coastal Bend.

Page 4 2 - Coastal Bend Traveler - April 2012

On the cover...

The Blue Angels return to NAS-Kingsville in this free, amazing aeronautical display.

Page 6

DESIGNED BY AD CITY MAGAZINE

Wonders in the Sky J KINGSVILLE, TEXAS

NAS-Kingsville ready to take flight with Wings Over South Texas

u Admission: FREE u WHEN: April 14 & 15 u WHERE: NAS-Kingsville

By Jon Gagné and Fifi Kieschnick, NAS Kingsville Public Affairs

A

lot is going on behind the scenes as preparations are being finalized for the 2012 Wings Over South Texas air show, scheduled for April 14 to 15. Air show committee members are firming up the line-up, determining arrangement of static displays on the flight line, and solidifying all the pre-show and weekend activities being planned. Free admission, free parking and fun for the entire family is the calling card for Wings Over South Texas 2012, which celebrates the 70th anniversary of NAS Kingsville’s commissioning on July 4, 1942.

“Putting together the air show is a large team ef-

fort,” said Lt. Cmdr. Dave Anderson, 2012 air show coordinator. “We’ve got a great team! Everyone is working hard to make this a tremendously successful air show with more visitors than ever before.”

Headlining the Wings Over South Texas air show will be the Blue Angels, the Navy’s premier flight demonstration team. They will also arrive with the Fat Albert crew and their C-130 ‘Hercules’ aircraft.

Another military act the air show will feature comes from the “Flying Eagles” Tactical Demonstration Team of VFA 122, based out of NAS Lemoore, Calif. The “Tac Demo” team flies the single-seat F/A-18E and two-seat F/A-18F as close

to the “edge of the envelope” as safety and prudence allow. The routine highlights the “Rhino’s” maneuverability and slowspeed handling characteristics and has been very well received around the country.

The U.S. Air Force Heritage Flight demonstration team is also on the card.

The Heritage Flight program presents the evolu-

tion of USAF air power by flying today’s state-of-theart fighter aircraft in close formation with vintage fighter aircraft.

A Heritage Flight performance involves a current USAF fighter piloted by an Air Combat Command trained military Heritage Flight pilot and flown with a historical warbird piloted by a trained and certified civil-

t i s i V e Com

Come see our wide selection of Rustic Furniture and Decor

Alice Chamber of Commerce 612 East Main St. • Alice, Texas 78332

664-3454

361

www.alicetxchamber.org 6 - Coastal Bend Traveler - April 2012

361664-3421 119 N. King St.• Alice

ian Heritage Flight pilot.

The Heritage Flight team will feature the A-10 Thunderbolt II at the Wings Over South Texas show. The Thunderbolt has excellent maneuverability at low air speeds and altitude, and is an highly accurate weaponsdelivery platform.

The aircraft can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time and operate under 1,000foot ceilings (303.3 meters) xans er Te Wint lways Are A ome!

Welc

with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. The wide combat radius and short takeoff and landing capability permit operations in and out of locations near front lines. Using night vision goggles, A-10 pilots can conduct their missions during darkness.

The U.S. Air Force will also provide a B-1B Lancer fly-by during the show.

The B1-B Lancer is a fourengine variable-sweep wing strategic bomber.

A lice

Country Club

Where South Texas hospitality meets country charm.

The Alice Country Club offers year-round golfing, superior dining facilities & much more.

664-5702

361

• 260 County Road 341, Alice

Terr y L. Kreider, General Manager

The B-1 was developed primarily as a low-level penetrator with long range and supersonic speed capability at high altitude.

Opening the show each day will be the U.S. Navy “Leap Frogs” parachute team. This precision performance team features 14 jumpers leaping out of an aircraft at an altitude of about 12,500 feet onto the NAS Kingsville flightline.

The Disabled American Veterans Flight Team is an-

other new act to the Wings Over South Texas line-up.

The DAV Flight Team flies the B-25 Mitchell Bomber, an historic World War II aircraft that gained fame during the Doolittle raids over Japan.

There will also be two comedy acts that air show fans of all ages will enjoy.

The Indy Boys will bring motor sports entertainment at its most extreme.

See AIR SHOW, Page 17

Richard Goodwin Agent

3310 E. Main St., Ste. A Alice, TX 78332 Office: Fax: Mobile: Email:

361.664.2661 361.664.3979 361.701.5159 rgoodwin@txfb-ins.com

Farm & Ranch • Annuities • Health • Long-Term Care

April 2012 - Coastal Bend Traveler - 7

75 years of Swashbucklin’ Fun J CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS

Buc Days kicks off April 13

Buc Days 2012

u Buc Days Coors Light Cook-Off Kick-Off presented by HEB April 13 and 14 u Buc Days Miller Lite PRCA Rodeo April 19 through 22 u Buc Days Coors Light BBQ Tail Gate BBQ presented by HEB April 19 through 21 u Buc Days Festival & Stripes Carnival April 26 through May 6 u Buc Days IBC Bank Junior Parade April 28 u Las Donas De La Corte May 3 u Buc Days Toyota Illuminated Night Parade May 5

O

h, no! Pirates have kidnapped the mayor of Corpus Christi and are making him walk the plank in Corpus Christi Bay! Fear not, me hearties, yer mayor is nae in danger, ‘tis merely the kickoff of the annual Buc Days festival.

In Corpus Christi, Texas, the annual Buccaneer or “Buc” Days festival is always the biggest party of the year, involving an estimated quarter of a million people. Now in its 75th year, the celebration was established in 1938 by the non-profit Buccaneer Commission to bring “entertaining, educational and cultural events to the Coastal Bend.”

The event is a spin off of the original “Splash Days Celebrations” which began on North Beach to denote the beginning of summer with a bathing beauty contest.

It was decided to add more pageantry and pizazz by tying the event to the city’s colorful history which includes the notorious pirate Jean Lafitte - and Buccaneer Days was born.

Lafitte, along with his band of corsairs, harassed and plundered trading ships in the Gulf of Mexico in the early 1800s. He and his crew were granted a Presidential pardon for their crimes by President James Madison as a result of aiding General Jackson’s troops in defending New Orleans during the Civil War. Following the pardon, it is said Lafitte moved his band to Texas to the current site of Corpus Christi.

The first Buccaneer Days

8 - Coastal Bend Traveler - April 2012

festival, held in 1938, was a three-day event. The first parade also happened that year and was comprised of “five bands, about 15 floats and a historical pageant and ball.” The event was a huge success and has steadily grown through the years.

The 70th celebration, held in 2008, had grown from its somewhat humble beginnings to include a Pro PRCA Tour Rodeo, Barbecue Challenge, Folklórico Competition, Junior Parade, carnival and fireworks.

A college scholarship program was established in 1996 to benefit area youth; and that, too, has grown through the years.

In 2008, following the 70th anniversary celebration, the Buccaneer Commission Scholarship was able to grant $70,000 to South Texas youth. The year 2009 also saw $60,000 in scholarships granted. The Commission is dedicated to the continuing growth of its scholarship program at area colleges and universities.

Buccaneer Days will begin with a “Buc Days Coors Light Cook-Off Kick-Off” presented by HEB on April 13 and 14.

The event this year will once again include the Buc Days Miller Lite Pro PRCA Rodeo. With total purses historically ranging as high as $175,000, this

All-You-Can-Ride Stripes carnival wristbands are on pre-sale for $20 (a $5 discount) at area Stripes stores April 2 through 26.

Large groups of 20 or more may email denise@ bucdays.com for additional discounts.

There is much, much more being planned for this year’s celebration. Please visit www.bucdays.com for more information.

Story By Lois Stephens Photos Contributed rodeo draws contestants from all over. The 2011 event included 22 current or former World Champions representing 59 World Championships, and 91 cowboys listed in the top 16 World Standings compiled by the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA).

This year’s rodeo will be from Thursday, April 19, through Sunday, April 22, with performances beginning at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and a Sunday matinee beginning at 2 p.m. at the American Bank Center Arena, located at 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd. Seats are $10, $15 and $30; tickets are available through www.ticketmaster. com.

This year’s festival will celebrate “75 Swashbucklin’ Years” and is returning to its original location along the bayfront. The event will kick off with the traditional “Dunking of the Mayor” at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 26.

Crabtree Amusements, a

crowd favorite, will bring its huge carnival to the party for the 11th consecutive year. It is one of the largest carnival operators in the nation and has rides from tame to thrilling for kids of all ages.

The Buc Days IBC Bank Junior Parade kicks off on Shoreline at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 28, and don’t forget to watch for the “Celebrate Our Port!” Fireworks display that night courtesy of the Port of Corpus Christi and HDR Engineering.

The Buc Days Toyota Illuminated Night Parade will begin at 7 p.m. Saturday, May 5.

This parade is so popular it is common practice for Corpus Christi residents to visit the parade route days in advance and “mark their territory” to reserve a spot for their family on the sidewalk.

The festival hours will be from 5 to 10 p.m. weekdays except Friday; 5 p.m. to midnight on Fridays; noon

to midnight Saturdays and noon to 10 p.m. Sundays.

South Texas Marine Center 3832 East Highway 44 Alice, Texas

664-6193

www.southtexasmarine.com

Don’t sit at home another summer.

South Texas Marine Center.

April 2012 - Coastal Bend Traveler - 9

New 2012 Ram

$1,0

Bonus New T

1500 Quad Ca Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Saturday 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

New

1259 E. Main St., Alice

(361)

664-9955

www.lovechrysler.com

3

$1,000

Bonus on All New Trucks

Consumers Digest

2012 Best Buy Texas auTo WriTers associaTion (TaWa)

d Cab

auTomobiLe magazine

2011 aLL-sTar

off-road advenTurers

2011 manufacTurer

of The

year

2011 Laramie Longhorn Luxury PickuP Truck of Texas

Texas auTo WriTers associaTion (TaWa)

edmunds.com

Texas auTo WriTers associaTion (TaWa)

2011 consumers’ ToP raTed Large LighT-duTy Truck

®

2011 Truck

of

Texas

2011 ouTdoorsman - fuLL-size PickuP Truck of Texas

New 2012 Ram

3500 Quad Cab dually

Left, TAMUK Basketball Coach Pete Peterson. Above, Jennifer Kent, principal at H.M. King High School.

PHOTOS COURTESY GEORGIA WINGATE THOMPSON

Ride on the Wild Side J KINGSVILLE, TEXAS

Annual Bike Run benefits hanicapped children’s camp

I

t’s the time of year to take “A Ride on the Wild Side” in Kingsville. The 9th annual Spring Bike Tour, organized by the Kingsville Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Kingsville Noon Lions Club, is April 21 and begins on the historic King Ranch.

The race begins at 8 a.m. on W. Highway 141 at Santa Gertrudis Avenue.

The tour travels on paved ranch and county roads.

Riders will begin their ride on King Ranch and will get a glimpse of ranch life as they ride a scenic route on a working ranch.

Full service rest stops and medical assistance will be along the routes.

Youth under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult on the King Ranch Loop.

All riders must wear a helmet and obey state traffic laws.

Pre-registration is

12 - Coastal Bend Traveler - April 2012

through April 6 at a cost of $25 per rider. Cost is $30 after April 6. Cost is $15 for children under age 18; $20 after April 6.

The first 100 registrants will receive a T-shirt and goody bag.

The evening prior to the race, participants are encouraged to attend dinner at the King Ranch Caesar Camphouse.

Cost is only $5 a person for an evening at the camphouse, which was once

used by cowboys at chow time.

Proceeds from the 9th Annual Spring Bike Tour benefit the Texas Lions Camp for Physically Handicapped Children.

The camp, located in Kerrville, educates children on how to work with their handicap and assists in teaching those stricken with juveniles diabetes.

For information, call 800-333-5032 or www. kingsvilletexas.com.

Aye Caliente!

Salsa Festival promises family fun

L

ooking for a little spicy fun? The Three Rivers Salsa Festival features a fantastic lineup of South Texas entertainers and a gathering of local salsa chefs vying for the title of “Salsa Champion!”

The Three Rivers Salsa Festival is right around the corner. The 13th annual event will be held on Saturday, April 14, in downtown Three Rivers, beginning at 10 a.m.

Entertainment on the country-western stage will begin with Chris Rybak and his band at 10 a.m. At 11 a.m., the Brush Country Music Jamboree band will take the stage. Band members will be Joe Nixon and Ricky Turpin on twin fiddles; Kim Green on lead guitar; James Skidmore on drums; George Norris on rhythm guitar; Gary Carriger on steel guitar; Larry Sellers on bass guitar; Peter Kane on keyboard and Lothell DuBose and Will Krause, back-up singers.

Guest performers will be Allison Crowson, Robyn Mundy, Curtis Richard, Texas Lace and Lean Payne Jr. At about 4 p.m., Justin Trevino and his band will take the stage for two hours. There will be salsa tasting and judging, vendor and food booths, children’s slides and many more activities for the whole family. Admission is free.

The Salsa-making contest is the highlight of the festival, with amateur and professional competitors offering their recipes for the public to sample.

The competition boasts a grand prize of $1,000. Grab a drink, try to make it through all the salsa entries, then cast your vote for your favorite!

Salsa Making Competition Contestant Check-in: 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Public Salsa Tasting: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Judges Official Tasting: 1 p.m.

Amateur Division -

Entry Fee $30 Professional Division Entry Fee $35 Showmanship - Entry Fee $10 Set-Up: The Festival will provide tables. The public will walk through between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. tasting each salsa, then, cast a vote for their favorite in each division.

At 1 p.m. salsa samples will be collected for official judging. Side dishes are not allowed.

Tasters will taste only Chips and Salsa. Winners will be announced and awards presented on Stage One as soon as votes are tabulated or at 3 p.m.

The event will provide the tables, chips, and plastic tasting spoons.

Salsa makers must provide:

• Salsa (prepare approximately one gallon of salsa) • Container to transport salsa • Bowl and scoop for serving • Hat, visor or umbrellas for shade For information, visit www.threeriverstx.org/ salsafest/index.html or call (888) 600-3115.

April 2012 - Coastal Bend Traveler - 13

Boat & Outdoor Show J CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS

T

he Texas International Boat & Outdoors Show, now in its sixth year, will be taking place at the Corpus Christi Marina April 19 to 22.

ADMISSION Saturday and Sunday ticket prices at the gate: Adults: $10 Seniors/Military: $8 Children 6-14: $3 5 and under: Free With a decided effort in making the event even more appealing to families over the past years, the organizers return with the extremely popular Texas Extreme Watersports section of the show, featuring the National Tri-Hull Powerboat Championship, the Corpus Christi Pro Wakeboard Tournament and the “Battle of the Badges.”

The show offers a great display of boats including bay boats, lake boats, offshore and power alongside a variety of products and services ranging from spas to fishing rods.

There has never been a better time to buy a boat for those considering doing so, and with competitive pricing and incentives, it is now easier than ever to upgrade or get into boating. Finance and insurance companies

will also be available to assist with information on purchase and coverage.

New this year is the sponsorship of GEICO along with the presence of the Miss GEICO Racing Team which will be signing autographs and exhibiting one of their amazing offshore powerboats, Miss GEICO, one of the fastest offshore powerboats in the world. GEICO will also be offering exciting giveaways and drawings, including a chance to drive a replica Miss GEICO remote controlled powerboat each day in a race against Scotty Begovich, entering to win a Miss GEICO golf cart and a trip to the World Championships taking place in Florida later this year.

There will also be Texas Extreme Watersports, including powerboating, which takes center stage.

Event Promoter Marion Daly said the powerboating will thrill spectators with the National Tri-Hull Powerboat Championship, hosted by the Southern

14 - Coastal Bend Traveler - April 2012

Professional Outboard Racing Tour as part of the 2012 S.P.O.R.T. Racing Series.

“The event is a major win for Corpus Christi over two other competing cities to host this premier event in Tri-Hull racing, this year’s event will feature drivers from all over the USA, including Michael Schubert, a three-time series champion with more victories than any other driver in Tri-Hull history,” Daly said. “Other competitors like Cory Walker and the always thrilling ‘Scary’ Jerry Rinker will make this year’s event as thrilling as any.”

Also returning for 2012 is the hugely popular “Battle of the Badges,” featuring an inter-services on the water competition - this is the Corpus Christi Police Department, Fire Department, Homeland Security and the U.S. Coast Guard as they have never been seen before!

“Corpus Christi’s finest will face off for inner-tube

racing, stand up paddle boarding and an in-water tug-of-war,” Daly said, “all of which will keep adrenaline pumping until the last contestant crosses the finish line.”

The Corpus Christi Pro Wakeboard Tournament, one of the most unique wakeboard tournaments of the season, also returns to the Boat Show for the fourth year. It created

by Texas Ski Ranch, out of Austin, and the Texas International Boat & Outdoors Show.

Tom Fooshee, the current World Wakeboard Association World Champion, returns to defend his title against a line up of world class riders. This is one event not to be missed.

L&F Distributors, National Oilwell Varco and Stewart & Stevenson return as local sponsors of the Boat Show. Tickets can be purchased online where a $2 adult admission discount is available.

Show Hours: Thursday, April 19, 11.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, April 21, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Opening Ceremony: 11:30 a.m.; Friday, April 20, 12 to 7 p.m.; Sunday: April 22, 12 to 7 p.m. Please visit the web site www.texasinternationalboatshow.com for further information.

By Brenda Poe Photo Submitted

Annual celebration promises to be one for the ages

J ORANGE GROVE, TEXAS

Pioneer Days held every April

A

sk the people of Orange Grove what the biggest event of the year is and most of them will tell you Pioneer Days.

Every April, young and old, current and former residents gather in the small farming community to celebrate their heritage and party, small-town style.

“It’s just a good, old fashioned, small town celebration,” said City Administrator Rick Lopez. “This year Pioneer Days will begin with the traditional cook off by the Orange Grove Fire Department on April 20.

After that, the celebration begins at 9 a.m. on April 21, which is a Saturday.

There will be a cook off all day Saturday and music beginning at 2 p.m.

The Legends will take

the stage at about 4 p.m. and the Majeks will be headlining, taking the stage at about 7:30 p.m.

At 6 p.m., the winners of the cook off will be announced on stage.

Pioneer Days offers great family fun with a small-town atmosphere.

“We will have a small carnival for the kids,” Lopez said. “Usually we have over 100 vendors and the Orange Grove Museum will have games and presentations. This is

H A S S L E GF.R..E E SUPER SHWEIKI SPECIAL!

50 FREE POSTCARDS

P R IN T IN TwOwwT.SHHEWEIRKEI.ScoCmU E

www.SHWEIKI.com 4” X 6” Full Color 2 sided 10pt Gloss w/UV

a wonderful opportunity for people from all over to come into our town and have a good time with us.

“We invite everyone to come on out to Orange Grove and enjoy our celebration, which includes a street dance.”

The celebration begins at 9 a.m. April 21 and runs until midnight.

By Johnny De La Zerda Jr.

Gonzalez

Your Hometown Pharmacy & More

featuring DEMDACO

designs for the home

Scan Here To Get Our Crystal Clear Guarantees

Scan this code with your smartphone

FREE QUOTE & SAMPLES www.SHWEIKI.com

301 E. Main St. Alice, Texas

664-4368 April 2012 - Coastal Bend Traveler - 15

Palapa Grande on Gator Lake Below, two Monarchs in the Butterfly House

J CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS

Many family events planned for April

T

he South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, located at 8545 S. Staples St. in Corpus Christi, is 180 acres of natural beauty. With everything from orchids to butterflies, from native wetlands to sculptured horticulture; nature lovers of all ages will find something appealing about this destination.

A 2,600-square-foot screened Butterfly House was dedicated in 2010 and remains a popular attraction for the young and the young-at-heart.

Educational exhibits and stunning floral gardens delight the eyes and 16 - Coastal Bend Traveler - April 2012

‘Business is blooming’ at the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center Story By Lois Stephens enthrall the mind; and the frequent classes and seminars offered almost every Saturday by the center provide information on topics ranging from how to raise orchids to how to prepare herbs for holistic health.

April is “Big Bloom” month at the gardens. Be sure to visit from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, April 14, for the annual mega plant sale and garden festival. It’s Dollar Day to enter and shop the gardens with free parking and entry through the Rose Garden Pavilion.

The day-long event will include the traditional plumeria, orchid and

bromeliads for sale as well as all kinds of landscaping plants, exotics and tropicals, specialty vendors selling all kinds of lawn, garden and nature-related products and much, much more. Bring your own wagon and take this opportunity to stock up. Members get free early entry and may begin their shopping at 8 a.m. They also will receive a 10-percent discount on Botanical Gardens plants and Nature’s Boutique merchandise.

New this year are ladybug releases in three different gardens, a butterfly release in the butterfly house, an “Eco-Fun Tent” featuring

See GARDENS, Page 17

AIR SHOW, From 7 Paul Stender, vehicle builder and driver, will be bringing both his jet-powered school bus dubbed “School Time” and a jet-powered outhouse.

Stunt pilot Kent Pietsch, flying his 1942 Interstate Cadet, will perform extreme maneuvers, such as their aileron falling off in mid air, and display his modified-RV that features a runway on the roof that Kent actually lands on.

Another new act for Kingsville is the Horsemen Flight Team, the world’s only P51 Mustang aerobatic team composed of three warbird pilots who have a passion for showcasing the P-51 Mustang.

You’ll also see the Budweiser Clydesdales on the flight line, and both days

will feature free concerts

by Abilene, Texas-based country singer and songwriter Aaron Watson midshow.

Wrapping everything up in a nice package is Rob Reider, who will serve as the air show announcer.

Reider is an entertainer, pilot, performer, writer and Emmy- award winner who puts all his experience into bringing the excitement of air shows “up close and personal” to audiences all over the country.

Some of the static displays include military aircraft from all the branches of the armed services, including U.S. Marine Corps MH-53E Sea Stallion, U.S. Army HH-60M Black Hawk, U.S. Navy E-6B Mercury and U.S. Air

Travel the Coastal Bend in Style We have vehicles priced under  ­ in our HUGE online inventory

Bowden A Used Cars East Front Street­ Alice­ Texas

Learn about our Patented Quick Credit Approval online at www bowdenflm com

Get Approved While You Wait!

Call ( ) for more information

Force T-6.

A T-6 Texan will also be a static display on the NAS Kingsville flightline.

The NAS Kingsville flightline will also include a Kids Zone and Tennis Challenge for children and food and merchandise

booths for fans of all ages, open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To view show schedules or obtain information on what you can and cannot bring with you to the air show, visit the air show web site at www.wingsoversouthtexas.org/wost.

GARDENS, From 16 a reptile show at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. and music from Spark in the Dark, playing classic rock, folk, reggae and blues from noon to 3 p.m. Parrot Talk with the Companion Bird Club and Rescue is planned in the Bromeliad Conservatory.

Also on the agenda for April is a special seminar and workshop on Holistic Herbal Health. Susan Sparks of Chiron Holistic in Corpus Christi will present a seminar from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 28, on the basics of over-all holistic herbal health. The seminar is free for members, non-members pay $8 for general admission.

The seminar will be followed after lunch by a separate, in-depth workshop on “Preparing Herbs for Holistic Health” from 1 to 5 p.m. Sparks will discuss the creation of both internal and external herbal health products such as teas, bath salts, lip balm, salves and other items to help with holistic wellness.

The workshop is $30 for members and $38 for non-members and will include several take-home products. The workshop may be taken in conjunction with the seminar or by itself.

Other upcoming activi-

ties at the Gardens include a week-long Wilderness Experience Kids Camp a day camp for children ages seven through 10 - in June and July; and “Flamingo Fandango” exhibit opening in July, during which a huge flock of “flamboyant and funky” plastic flamingos descend upon the gardens.

October features the annual major fundraiser for the year, “Moonlight in the Gardens.”

It is a soirée under the full moon during which guests may experience the gardens at night, with food and music sites scattered throughout the gardens, special lighting effects, a silent auction and much more.

The gardens are open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with extended hours from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

June 1 through Labor Day. Admission is $6 for adults (ages 13-59), $5 for seniors, military and students with I.D., $3 for children ages 5 to 12 and free for younger children.

For more information on these and other activities at the gardens, please visit their Web site at www. stxbot.org or call (361) 8522100.

PHOTOS COURTESY

April 2012 - Coastal Bend Traveler - 17

It’s Rattlesnake Roundup time J FREER, TEXAS

G

et ready to head down to the Duval-Freer Airport for the biggest snake Party in Texas featuring concerts with nationally known country western and Tejano artists, April 27and 28.

It’s going to be fun for the whole family including a carnival, parade, arts/ crafts exhibit and show,

stage shows, a dare devil snake show, fried rattlesnake meat, talent contest and much more.

Acts include Jaime Y Los Chamacos, Bobby Marquez, Ricky Naranjo Y Los Gamblers, Josh Abbot Band, Aaron Watson and more.

Freer is at the intersection of U.S. Highway 59 and State highways 16, 44, and 339, 24 miles northwest

Mar 26-Apr 1, 2012

MISCELLANEOUS $14.99 SATELLITE TV. Includes free installation, High speed internet for less than $.50 a day. Low cost guarantee.

Call today (877) 803-8837 DIRECTV is the BestTV! Now get FREE Installation, FREE Showtime & Starz for 3 months, and FREE HD/DVR upgrade for only $29/mo. High speed internet for less than $.50 a day. Low cost guarantee.

Call today 866-234-7675 AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Train for high paying Aviation Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified - Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 877-523-4531 ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality. Job placement assistance.

Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified.

Call 888-205-8920 www.CenturaOnline.com Is Citi Mortgage or JP Morgan Chase your current mortgage lender?

Qualified homeowners can join our Multi-Plaintiff Lawsuit. Call now for a free case evaluation. 1-888-751-8242 SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. WIN or Pay Nothing! Start Your Application In Under 60 Seconds.

Call Today! Contact Disability Group, Inc. Licensed Attorneys & BBB Accredited.

Call 888-420-5082 Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call Today 888-570-3276 for $25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare.

Get a FREE talking meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 866-956-0883

18 - Coastal Bend Traveler - April 2012

of San Diego and 23 miles northwest of Benavides in northwestern Duval County. It is the second largest town in the county.

It’s ‘way out’ in the middle of nowhere, say locals, but well worth a visit, especially during the Rattlesnake Roundup.

Contact the Freer Chamber of Commerce, 361-3946891 for information. Or,

To Advertise Texas-Wide!

Call this newspaper or The Texas Community Newspaper Association's Texas-wide Advertising Program at 210-590-4402

MISCELLANEOUS MANTIS Deluxe Tiller. NEW! Fast Start engine. Ships FREE. One-Year MoneyBack Guarantee when you buy DIRECT. Call for the DVD and FREE Good Soil book!

877-857-3416

LEGAL SERVICES DIVORCE $350* Covers Child Support, Custody, and Visitation, Property, Debts, Name Change…Only One Signature Required! *Excludes govt. fees!

1-800-522-6000 Extn. 500 BAYLOR & ASSOCIATES

EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Graduate in 4 Weeks! Free Brochure. Call Now! 1-866-562-3650 ext. 830 www.southeasternhs.com HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FROM HOME. 6-8 weeks. ACCREDITED. Get a Diploma.

Get a Job! FREE Brochure. 1-800-264-8330 Benjamin Franklin High School www.diplomafromhome.com

MOTORCYCLES

visit www.freerrattlesnakeroundup.net

DISCLAIMER: This publication does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy of any advertisement, nor the quality of the goods or services offered. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all claims made and to use good judgment and reasonable care when dealing with persons unknown to you.

EMPLOYMENT MYSTERY SHOPPERS - Get paid to shop!

Retail/Dining establishments need undercover clients to judge quality/customer service.

Make up to $150 a day. Call 1-888-912-2927 ACTORS/MOVIE EXTRAS Needed Immediately for upcoming roles. $150-$300 per day depending on job requirements. No experience, all looks needed. 1-800-560-8672 A-109. For casting times/locations: $$$HELP WANTED$$$ Extra Income!

Assembling CD cases from home! No Experience Necessary! Call Our Live Operators Now! 1-800-267-3944 Ext 495 easywork-greatpay.com $5,000 Sign-On Bonus! Tons of Runs! Frac Sand Hauling. Owner Operators need tractor, pneumatic trailer, blower. 1-800-397-2639 "CAN YOU DIG IT?" We will train, certify & provide lifetime assistance landing work Hiring in Texas. Start digging as a heavy equipment operator. 866-362-6497

AUTOS WANTED

HARLEYS WANTED, immediate cash. 600 Harleys in stock. Weak credit financing.

Barnett Harley-Davidson (800)910-4048.

CA$H FOR CARS/TRUCKS: Get a Top Dollar INSTANT Offer! Running or Not. Damaged? Wrecked? OK! We Pay Up To $20,000! Call Toll Free: 1-888-416-2207

ADOPTIONS

TV / ELECTRONICS

PREGNANT? CONSIDERING ADOPTION? Talk with caring adoption expert. You choose from families nationwide. LIVING EXPENSES PAID. Call 24/7 Abby's One True Gift Adoptions. 866-459-3371

RVs FOR SALE

REPOS SEVERAL TRAVEL TRAILERS & FIFTH WHEELS CALL TODAY 866.813.2770 MEDICAL/HEALTH HAVE YOUR MEDICAID BENEFITS BEEN CUT? We can restore them! Your Senior Care Inc. 1-800-326-9810 (TTY/TDD 711) Mon-Sun 7a-9p Must have Hospital/Part A and Medical/Part B.

DISH Network. Starting at $19.99/month PLUS 30 Premium Movie Channels FREE for 3 Months! SAVE! & Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL - 888-482-8750

WANT TO BUY WANTED UNEXPIRED DIABETIC TEST STRIPS UP TO $26/BOX. PRE PAID SHIPPING LABELS. HABLAMOS ESPANOL! 1-800-267-9895 or www.SellDiabeticstrips.com

EclEctic E vEnts ( e h I n t ht tl ig o p S

Thursday, April 5 - Victoria - Victoria College - Lyceum - Temple Grandin - Temple Grandin overcame the limitations of autism to become an accomplished and world famous animal scientist.

She will speak at 7 p.m. at the VISD Fine Arts Center located at 1002 Sam Houston. Call 361572-6422 for information.

Friday, April 6 - Corpus Christi - The Spazmatics in Concert - The Ultimate New Wave show covers popular songs from the 1980s as well as some hits from today. Brewster Street Icehouse, 1724 N. Tancahua. Phone: 361/884-2739 http://www. brewsterstreet.net/.

Saturday, April 7 - Goliad - Music at the Winery - 6 to 10 p.m. Wine, music and relaxation at Texas South Wind Vineyard & Winery, 16375 Hwy. 183 S, Goliad.

Saturday, April 7 - Corpus Christi - Second Saturday Singalong Piano Show - Shout out a song and the pianist will do his best to play it.

Brewster Street Ice House, 1724 N. Tancahua. http://www.brewsterstreet.net/.

Thursday, April 12 - Rockport-Fulton - Country Opry - Paws & Taws Convention Center, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road. Phone: 800-242-0071 http:// www.rockport-fulton.org/.

Friday, April 13 - Goliad - Senior Citizen Craft Item and Bake Sale. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 601 W. Pearl, Goliad. Call 361-645-2501 for information.

Friday, April 13 - Corpus Christi - Buc Days Rodeo Trail Ride begins at the Richard M. Borchard Regional Fairgrounds. Phone: 361-8823242 http://www.bucdays.com/.

Friday and Saturday, April 13 and 14 - Port Aransas - IFA Texas Redfish Tournament Inshore Fishing Association sponsors this one-day catch-and-release saltwater event. Fishing Saturday with a kayak event Sunday. Port Aransas Harbor.

Phone: 478-788-8871 http://www.redfishtour.com/.

Saturday, April 14 - Corpus Christi - Metal Shop in Concert - Band in full costume covers metal songs from the ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s. Brewster Street Ice House, 1724 N. Tancahua. http://www. brewsterstreet.net/.

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

)

Friday through Sunday, April 20 through 22 - Port Aransas - Texas Sand Fest - World Championship qualifying sand-sculpting competition features the largest Master Sand Sculpting Competition in the U.S. Includes skill levels from amateur to master sculptors.

Also includes music, children’s activities, food and craft booths. Mustang Island Beach. Phone: 512-7625401 Fax: 361-215-0677 http://www.texassandfest.com/

Saturday, April 14 - Goliad - Goliad Market Days - 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 231 S. Market St., Goliad.

Arts, crafts, antiques, food and beverages, jewelry collectibles and more from 200-plus vendors.

Saturday, April 14 - Victoria - JamFest Features art, music, gourmet food, boutique wines and street entertainers in Victoria’s revitalized downtown. 214 N. Main St. http://www. visitvictoriatexas.com/vcvb/.

Saturday, April 14 - Kingsville - “Ride on the Wild Side” Bicycle Ride - Ride the historic 10mile loop on the King Ranch then longer rides in the countryside. King Ranch, 2205 Texas 141 W. 2205 Texas 141 W. Phone: 361-592-8516 http:// www.kingsvilletexas.com/.

Saturday, April 14 through Sunday, April 22 Corpus Christi - Great Texas Birding Classic - This friendly yet serious birding for conservation tournament occurs during the spectacular spring bird migration in Texas. Various locations.

Phone: 888-892-4737 http://www.birdingclassic. org/.

Saturday and Sunday, April 14 and 15 - Corpus Christi - Republic of Texas Triathlon Festival Features sprint, Olympic and half-distance triathlon events, with an expo and citywide fitness challenge. http://www.republicoftexastri.com/.

Saturday and Sunday, April 14 and 15 Rockport-Fulton - Tour of Homes - Tour a selection of homes in Rockport and Fulton. Tickets available through the Rockport Center for the Arts or at the homes.Phone: 361-729-5519 http:// www.rockportartcenter.com/.

Thursday through Sunday, April 19 through 22 - Corpus Christi - Texas International Boat and Outdoors Show - Texas’ biggest in-water boat and outdoors show also features powerboat racing, wakeboard championship events, and paddleboard and kayak racing. Corpus Christi Marina on Shoreline Boulevard. Phone: 561-8428808 http://www.txintlboatshow.com/.

Friday, April 20 - Corpus Christi - The Klocks in Concert - Cover band performs a wide variety of popular music. Brewster Street Ice House, 1724 N. Tancahua. http://www.brewsterstreet.net/.

Friday and Saturday, April 20 and 21 Kingsville - Relay for Life - Relay for Life benefiting American Cancer Society. 7 p.m.

Friday through 7 a.m. Saturday, April 21, Javelina Stadium.

Friday and Saturday, April 20 and 21 Rockport-Fulton - Square Dance Festival - Paws & Taws Convention Center, 402 N. Fulton Beach Road. 402 N. Fulton Beach Road Phone: 800-2420071 http://www.rockport-fulton.org/.

Friday and Saturday, April 20 and 21 - Alice - Jim Wells County Relay for Life - Alice High School Practice Field. 7 p.m. Friday to 7 a.m.

Saturday.

Sunday, April 22 - Yorktown - Garfield Spring Feast - Visit the Yorktown Chamber of Commerce at yorktowntx.com or call 361-5642661.

April 26 through 28 - Beeville - Evening of One Act Plays presented by the CBC Drama Department, 7 p.m. Call Coastal Bend College Performing Arts at 361-354-2303 or visit http:// www.coastalbend.edu for information.

Friday and Saturday, April 27 and 28 - Freer - Freer Rattlesnake Roundup - Event features concerts with nationally known country western and Tejano artists. Family fun includes a carnival, parade, arts/crafts exhibit and show, stage shows, a dare devil snake show, fried rattlesnake meat, talent contest and much more. Freer/Duval Airport Grounds on Hwy 59. Visit www.freerrattlesnakeroundup.net for information.

Friday, April 27 - Victoria - Relay for Life Victoria – At the Coleto Creek Reservoir. Let’s create a world with more birthdays and less cancer. Visit www.relayforlife.org/victoriacotx.

Saturday, April 28 - Ingleside - Cruise Your Ride to Ingleside Car Show Simmons Park. Phone: 361-776-2906 http://www.inglesidetxchamber.org/.

Monday, April 30 - Beeville - CBC Continuing Education and Music Department presents Guitar Extravaganza, free admission, 7 p.m. Call Coastal Bend College Performing Arts at 361354-2303 or visit http://www.coastalbend.edu.

April 2012 - Coastal Bend Traveler - 19

James Dean

Ranch Developments, Ltd Predevelopment Sales Now Highway 359 - Near Alice 5 to 100 acre lots available!

Rustic Living!

Features Two Creeks!

Much Wildlife!

Jim Dean, CEO P.O. Box 248, Sandia, TX 78383

(361)

387-1480

jdean642@aol.com