Hi. My name is James David Herd, and while kids across Victoria are preparing to start the new school year, I am starting to learn the ropes as the new Local Editor of Discover 361 Magazine.
It may have been over a decade since my high school graduation, but I still remember the excitement and anxiety that came with starting a new school year. There was no way to tell if I would like any of my new classes, if the other kids would be nice, or if I would be able to keep up with my assignments. But, despite these concerns, there was always something nice about having a clean slate.
In many ways, starting a new job or career can come with many of the same anxieties, but also the same excitements. Both a new school year and career change can bring with them a storm of change to the sea of normalcy, but change needn’t be negative. If I could impart a piece of advice to the students of all ages who are about to embark on new adventures, it’d be for them to embrace change where it lives. I would also advise them to live in the moment, as there’s no more unique chapter in life than the brief time we’re in school; it can be so easy to declare your hatred for getting up in the morning and attending school, but once you’ve graduated, it’s easier than it seems to become wistful for days long past.
In this edition of Discover 361, we cover a variety of topics that’ll be relevant to both the students that are headed back to school and the parents who’ll suddenly have a lot more time on their hands.
In this edition, we have an analysis of the ever-changing jobs market; what jobs can young people expect to be relevant in an uncertain future? Also inside is coverage of a charitable event intended to help students obtain the supplies they need, a profile of a memorable teacher in the community, a recipe guide for both kids and parents to make healthier food choices, and much more! In addition, we’ve a helpful guide to what stay-at-home moms can do with the sudden surplus of free time, as well as an exploration of nearby wineries — but that’s just for the parents!
Summer might be coming to a close, and with it, the specter of school is beginning to look a lot more solid. But, remember to hold onto all of these feelings — the anxieties and excitements — as you continue to learn and grow into the person you’re meant to be. I hope this magazine and the contents within will assist you in your journey. Until next time —
A look at the biggest growing career fields for the next 10 years
12
MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Pack the Bus provides school supplies to families in need.
16 PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
From combat boots to classrooms: Navy SEAL turned Victoria teacher will do humanitarian work in retirement.
20 FASHION
Back to School Fashions plucked from VISD's Connection Center closet.
Outlaw Pass maintains supremacy through family values and homegrown love. 30 DAY TRIP
Explore the Crossroads with 3 unique wineries. 36 FOOD
Back to school lunches and snacks featuring recopies from columnist Katherine Compton and Erica Briggs from ParaVida Wellness
CULTURE & EVENTS
Get back to school with this ultimate supply list.
44 CULTURE & EVENTS
As kids go back to school moms discuss what's on their list for self care.
48 ABOUT TOWN El Colibri and Radical Reptiles
50 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Educational and family-friendly events and museums to attend during August, September and October.
51 CONNECT 361
Discover more with the business directory from the Crossroads.
Yes, the littles are returning to school, but there are droves of young adults and soon to be adults starting their last runs of high school and the crossroads awaiting them. What do you want to be when you grow up? What’s your end goal? What are you going to do? And how do you do it? And specifically in Victoria, VISD asks high school seniors for their “And.”
There is heavy pressure for these young adults to choose their pathways, their careers. But the job market’s demands are changing with the times, especially with the boom in artificial intelligence and the new normal after the peak of the COVID pandemic.
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, here are some of the highest growing career fields for the next ten years that may catch your eye, so you can eagerly finish the sentence: “I’m graduating high school, and then…”
AI AND COMPUTER SCIENCE
Average Salary: $70,000 to $130,160
We’re in the tech boom. With the turn to remote working and teaching, we need better, more efficient technology, and of course, security for all the new ways we can lose our information.
The computer science and artificial intelligence fields include several different jobs: System network analysts, software developers, and cyber security
specialists to name just a few. All of these jobs require a background in computer science.
Randal Jasek, of University of Houston in Victoria, is a computer science major turned Senior Network Administrator working at his school. Jasek said the CS fields are growing in the wake of increased access to technology that needs more connectivity and e-commerce applications.
“Businesses themselves [have] begun to shift towards using applications to accomplish,or improve tasks done by a person collecting data in a spreadsheet,” Jasek said.
Jasek said one of the best ways to get into the computer science field is to narrow your interests.
“Are you managing data, connecting devices, managing projects, or displaying information on maps?” Jasek said.
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These can all be applied to different fields like data science, networking, development, and geographic information systems. They all have a need for someone to code and program.
And while you can get a computer science degree with specializations, students can also build up their hireability by building up a portfolio of projects to show employers.
People with a passion for solving problems and creative, out of the box thinking excel in the computer science fields. These jobs require an attention to detail and the desire to always be educating yourself as technology continues to grow.
NURSE PRACTITIONERS
Average Salary: $100,000 to $129,480
The next ten years is also the prime time for the Baby Boomer generation to begin their retirements, creating a demand for bodies to fill those empty positions as well as treat the nurse shortages we already have. The wave of retirement and the aging population of the second largest generation means that healthcare providers will be needed in scores.
According to Jared Nielson, a nurse practitioner in Victoria, choosing to become a nurse practitioner makes a better asset for those with a desire to help and treat people.
“Nearly everything a physician can do, a NP can do,” Nielsen says. “But where a nurse must follow the lead of the doctor at all times, a NP can diagnose and prescribe nearly every need a patient may have.”
And that is just a matter of getting the proper licensing and training if the practitioner wants it.
As far as getting into the field, most programs require a nursing bachelor degree and 2,500 hours (two years) of clinical experience. Many of the steps to becoming a nurse, then a practitioner, run parallel to becoming a doctor, but at a fraction of the cost. In general, a med school program can cost someone $350k, whereas to become a nurse
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practitioner it runs an average of $80k to $100k.
Nielsen has over twenty years of healthcare experience and says there is a healthcare crisis on the horizon. There will be a high demand for those individuals called to the health sector. As a nurse practitioner, you have more freedom to sit and talk to your patients, to provide them with the attention they need to care for them.
“You’ll have the ability to make a difference in people’s lives.” He said. “And people will need this care.”
WIND TURBINE SERVICE TECHNICIANS
Average Salary: $61,770 to $71,000
Just as AI and its emerging technology is changing the way computer science and cybersecurity works, the USA’s energy sources are shifting away from fossil fuels and into renewable energy. By 2030, it is projected that 45% of energy will come from renewable sources. And with a growing demand for more green energy comes a growing demand for jobs in that field.
The road from Victoria to Corpus Christi goes right through a wind farm of 192 wind turbines. Wind turbine service technicians are one of the highest projected career fields for the next ten years. The median pay of a wind turbine technician is $61,770 per year.
Josh Patel, a head engineer for Alpha Wind Services, has been working as a head turbine technician for about 10 years.
“If you’re a detailed, out of the box thinker,” he said, “and have a background in electrical and mechanic service, you’d be successful at this job.”
Patel goes on to say that any electrician can go to wind-documented schools, two-to-four year programs to be qualified for the job.
“It helps if you’re familiar with hydraulics,” he said. But most importantly, he said, “you need to be able to climb high, and be open to working outside, it’s a physical job.”
Servicing a wind turbine could require an engineer to be able to climb up to 300 ft in the air.
But Patel said the job is rewarding and the best benefit to him is being a part of change.
“For me, it’s knowing I am a part of reducing our carbon footprint.”
PROCESS TECHNICIANS/ PLANT OPERATORS
Average Pay: $68,000 to $70,000
Another sector that is projected to
grow with the expansion of technology is that of process technicians. As long as there is technology, there will be those who have to operate the equipment, troubleshoot the machinery and repair it. Processing and manufacturing jobs can take different forms, but they all center on being the operator of machines and being responsible for them.
Around Victoria, there are several manufacturing companies such as Formosa, DOW, and Caterpillar needing positions filled right now and those jobs will continue to expand in the next ten years as the oil and gas industries change with the global markets.
Lawrence Wick, Associate Professor of Process Technology at Victoria College, said there are big changes in the market in the works, and companies will need the support.
Victoria College offers a program to get interested students in the door. A two year associate of applied science is the first stop and where students will earn a process technology certificate. These programs have successful networking with the plants and refineries in the South Texas area, making the intimidating job hunt after schooling less stressful.
“It helps if you have a leaning towards mechanical skills and computer skills,” Wick said. “But being a team player and a problem solver is key.”
It’s also a lot of stress and responsibilities, as these technicians are responsible for maintaining and treating the machines vital to a company’s success.
“But that comes with the paycheck. You have to be willing to take the good and the bad.” Wick said.
This job field is for people with grit and determination, people who relish in hard work and reap the benefits of it.
CONCLUSION
Global markets and job demands will always be a shifting, moving target for those entering school, graduating or changing careers, but a little research can help anyone narrow down where a need will arise so you can best prepare yourself for success.
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PACK THE BUS
August rolls around whether you’re ready or not. And with it, the new school year looms on the horizon, to many kids’ dismay. To others, though, there is a building excitement, new year, new teachers, new lessons, new adventures. But there are many kids whose excitement is tempered by the anxieties every year brings. Simple things such as getting all the school supplies teachers ask are hard for too many families in Victoria.
But for the past ten years, Faith Family Church, HEB, and volunteers in town have come together to provide for families before the school year begins. Over a thousand kids were equipped for school with everything they needed to feel confident for the new year. What started as dispensing school supplies to kids, has now exploded to a full blown block party.
While Pack the Bus has been around for ten years, Stephanie Cadengo, the Outreach Director at Faith Family Church has worked to expand it to a big celebration.
HOW IT WORKS
The 2024 Pack the Bus was in the works within twenty-four hours of 2023’s event.
“As soon as it’s over,” said Cadengo, “we’re going over what went well, demographics, numbers. And starting on fliers and marketing.”
While HEB is the largest corporate sponsor of Pack the Bus, several organizations and sponsors help the gears of this event move forward. The Victoria Television Group has added to the commitment of helping students every year.
Over 1,000 kids received school kits in 2023, and HEB was so impressed by the results that there was no hesitation on increasing the budget for 2024’s Pack the Bus. HEB corporate is even sending their associates to volunteer, and their family members, to assist in the block party.
Pack the Bus is shooting for 1,500 kids supplied this year and is working to spread the word and make the registration process as easy as possible for families in need. QR codes make for a simple sign-up around town, but they also have representatives going to those places and assisting anyone who needs help or doesn’t have the technology to access the registration
We MAKE them FEEL SEEN
- Stephanie Cadengo
site.
In the past, Pack the Bus was just about the school supplies. Families came and went to pick up their supplies. Or during the 2020 COVID shut-down, where families drove up and Pack the Bus volunteers loaded their vehicle.
“There was no interaction,” said Cadengo and she wanted to change that.
“We want people to come out. We want to find out what the needs are in the community and what we can do better as people in our community.”
The families in need are not one type of family, there are families in every socioeconomic group who just need a little bit of help. Many of these parents are working harder than ever to support their families.
“There are so many parents in Victoria just doing the best they can,” said Cadengo.
“It can be anyone who needs help.”
Cadengo knows these families struggle with the basic necessities and the weight of the world is still on their shoulders. But this is just one less thing to worry about for them.
Also, it’s hard enough being a kid. The children themselves face the needling excitement and nervousness of starting a new grade, meeting a new teacher, and making new friends. Why should they worry about having what they need?
“Not having a pencil, a simple thing that a child should be able to get, could make or break a student’s day,” Cadengo said. “[They] think ‘how can I do this? I don’t even have a pencil?’”
Cadengo knows how those children felt. She is the oldest of four daughters, and kids like that don’t get to be kids and have to be parents when those parents are working two to three jobs to make ends meet. | CONT. FROM PG. 13
“These school supplies are the least we can do,” Cadengo said. “That’s why I love doing this.”
Anna Zancen was a member of the Faith Family Church community when she heard about Pack the Bus.
“I became a single mom after twelve years,” Zancen said about her situation at the time with several struggles going on at once. “With everything going on, I didn’t even think about school supplies for my three daughters.”
She volunteered for the 2023 event and signed up to receive supplies. She said handing out items was a good experience for her.
“Both for volunteering and helping, but also getting to see other families who were also struggling and accepting help,” she said.
She was extremely grateful to Faith Family Church and Pack the Bus for creating that community and bond for herself and her girls.
That's the ultimate reason Cadengo has grown Pack the Bus into a celebration.
THE WHY
On the day of the event, families arrive to find huge balloon arches. To volunteers welcoming them, asking the kids what grade they’re going into. A train drives around the event, giving anyone rides. Popcorn, snow cone machines, hot dogs. Everything is free.
“Kids get stoked by just the
welcoming and the balloons,” said Cadengo.
The block party celebrates these kids and their upcoming school year. It gets them excited about the coming school year. They get to have fun and get what they need.
“The party alleviates the stigma of having to ask for or need the help. It takes away from admitting to that vulnerability,” Cadengo said.
With other nonprofit organizations like Mid-Coast Family Services and the Homeless Coalition, Pack the Bus also offers information and access about all the other resources available.
“We invite people to come and show what they can do,” she said.
There are so many families that just aren’t aware of these resources. Many of these families feel like they're drowning and the world just goes on without them.
“We make them feel seen,” Cadengo said.
Pack the Bus is not only a dedication to supplying kids with the tools they need to start off on the right foot for school. It is an alliance of Victoria communities helping Victoria communities.
And it’s only getting bigger.
On the transformation of Pack the Bus, Cadengo said, “If we can all collaborate we can make a difference.”
“And if we have the chance to make a difference, why don’t we take it?”
PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
FROM Navy SEAL turned Victoria teacher will do humanitarian work in retirement COMBAT BOOTS TO CLASSROOMS
Top left and middle right, Bill Pozzi assisted with the recovery of the Apollo 12 capsule. Top right George P. Bush talks with Victoria County Republican Party Chairman Pozzi. Middle left, Pozzi teaches his social studies class at St. Joseph High School. Bottom left, Pozzi assisted Polish troops in Baghdad. Bottom right, Pozzi, Warrior's Weekend honoree, at Parkway Church in Victoria before the Warrior's Weekend dedication ceremony.
STORY BY TAMARA DIAZ | TDIAZ@VICAD.COM PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED TO DISCOVER
After spending more than 22 years as a member of an elite military outfit, notably in Vietnam and Iraq, and on the Apollo 12 mission recovery team, then teaching in Victoria for 12 years, Victoria County’s Republican Party chairman is ready to retire following the 2024-2025 school year.
“If I don’t do what I want to do now, am I going to be able to do it in two or three years?” Bill Pozzi, 77, said. He certainly seems unstoppable.
What does he want to do? Soak up the sun, relax on a beach somewhere? Travel the country in a recreational vehicle? Neither. Pozzi is determined to spend his golden years in humanitarian service abroad.
“I want to go to Israel on a Christian mission, and I’d like to man a hope ship,” Pozzi said.
Hope ships, also known as mercy ships, sail to depressed areas of the
world to provide health care to people who would not otherwise have the benefit, Pozzi said. The ship operations are based in Dallas.
A trip to Israel would be a rerun for the well-traveled man.
In 1974, he was a beekeeper in the Middle Eastern country, working on a kibbutz, a small communal, agricultural community. He said it was a “wonderful experience,” among his many.
During the same time that he was keeping bees, he was also an “on again, off again” member of one of the most elite United States military units, the Navy SEALs or Sea, Air, and Land teams.
“The thing about serving on a SEAL team is that you can stop for a while and then go back into service,” Pozzi said. “They’ll always take you back. There aren’t a lot of us with this type of training.”
According to the Navy’s website,
“While their missions are closely guarded secrets, it's common knowledge that Navy Special Operations teams are the best in the world.”
The Navy SEALs make up just 1% of all Navy personnel.
Pozzi served two tours in Vietnam and a later tour in Iraq, finishing his time with the SEALs at the age of 56.
Notably, during his decades as a SEAL team member, he served in the recovery team for the Apollo 12 mission. The return capsule carrying the three lunar astronauts touched down in the Pacific Ocean Nov. 22, 1969.
The Apollo 12 mission was the second manned NASA operation to land on the moon.
“The Navy was really good to me,” Pozzi said.
He is grateful for his time in service.
Pozzi followed his father, also a Navy man, into the military and was raised in southern California, but his family has roots in Victoria dating back to 1890.
Victoria is clearly where his heart is and also where he raised his four children.
“Victoria is just a great place,” Pozzi said. “There are a lot of great people here.”
Another sort of challenge put to him by his children, in Victoria, brought Pozzi into teaching 12 years ago.
“My kids, all four of them, were complaining about the same teacher,” Pozzi said. “So, I decided I would teach for one year and see what the deal was. I think the teacher was simply hard on kids, but he was a fine teacher.”
Pozzi started his teaching career at Faith Academy but has spent the last three years teaching history, government and economics at St. Joseph High School. Next year will be his fourth and final year teaching there.
“There’s a lot of rewarding things about teaching, such as interfacing with the kids and seeing their perspectives on life,” Pozzi said. “I think my generation was a lot worse than the present generation. My generation was tough. I think this generation is doing better.”
“Hey, I got into teaching so I wouldn’t have to hang around with a bunch of old people,” he added.
“You know how they can be,” Pozzi said with a bit of mischievous in his voice.
In addition to teaching, Pozzi has served as the chairman of the Victoria County Republican Party for eight years.
He said the experience has been a good one because Victoria is predominantly Republican and so “people agree with you.”
“That’s not true everywhere,” Pozzi said. “Some places see a lot of disagreement.”
It can get ugly in other places, he added, but in Victoria, politics are “nice,” with members of the GOP respecting dissenting views and treating everyone well.
So, what does a man, who has performed super-secret military missions, plucked Apollo astronauts out of the ocean, lived in an Israeli commune and influenced young learners and older voters, do, when the sun is setting and it’s time to retire?
He sails away, of course, into the horizon, aboard a ship bent on mercy.
Top, Pozzi, lectures his social studies classroom on illegal search and seizures at St. Joseph High School. Middle left, This photo was taken by Bill Pozzi at the Apollo 12 recovery in November 1969. Middle right, Pozzi, left, and Democratic Party Chair Woodrow Wagner II, right, chat before the Conversations with County Chairs forum at the University of Houston-Victoria. Bottom, Marilyn Martin takes a photo of Pozzi and his wife, Barbara Breazeale, inside Parkway Church in Victoria before the Warrior's Weekend dedication ceremony.
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Erabella is wearing a multi-patterned empire waist dress that features a green and white pinstripe top and multicolored rose patterned skirt with blue floral straps. The skirt of the dress features a ruffled hem.
Dressed for Success
Located at the old Stroman campus is the Victoria school district’s Connection Center. Rebecca Garcia, Student, Parent & Community Services Lead Coordinator, describes the center as a one-stop shop and referral source to students and families within the Victoria school district who are in need of assistance. She said they help bridge the gap that keeps students from regular school attendance by identifying what resources, referrals and solutions are needed to address underlying issues..
“We are helping to bridge the gap to help individuals advance to the next stage of self-sufficiency,” Garcia said.
Inside the Connections Center is a clothing closet where families and students have the opportunity to select school clothing, shoes and jackets that they need to be able to attend school on a regular basis.
Christina Loya is the school district’s truancy prevention coordinator. Her job is to help students who miss excessive amounts of school and help prevent students from dropping out. She uses the closet to dress students who do not have adequate clothing. She said providing clothing to these students helps eliminate one barrier that might be preventing a student from going to school.
“Clothing can sometimes be a barrier for students going to school,” Loya said.
She donates the clothes her children, Nolan, 9, and Camilla, 4, have grown out of to the Connections Center.
School attire such as jeans, polo shirts, t-shirts, dresses, shoes, socks, underclothes, hoodies, coats, and jackets is what is typically donated to the center, Garcia said. School attire
| CONT. FROM PG. 21
isn’t just limited to clothing, it also includes backpacks and school supplies throughout the year. Aside from the typical clothing items, the center also accepts baby items such as clothes and diapers and household items like blankets and towels.
“We get donations of clothing items that our young children can wear to school and feel good about themselves,” Garcia said.
Everything inside the closet has been donated primarily by the members of the community. Occasionally some businesses do have coat drives to help supply the Connections Center prepare for the first cold front of the winter season.
Garcia said the initiative behind the clothing closet is to provide school clothing to students in a way that is both comfortable and accessible to
Left, Erabella is wearing a multi-patterned empire waist dress that features a green and white pinstripe top and multicolored rose patterned skirt with blue floral straps. The skirt of the dress features a ruffled hem. Right, Ki’Shawn is wearing a red graphic Spiderman T-shirt with black athletic gym shorts.
| CONT. ON PG. 24
Nolan is wearing a Hawaiian floral and shark printed button up shirt with blue jeans and a black backpack.
Alexis is wearing a pink and purple striped Barbie T-shirt with light purple piping on the sleeves and collar along with a light purple a-line skirt. Erabella is wearing a dark Navy blue a-line smock dress with ruffled straps with a navy blue hair bow. Avalyn is wearing a red tiered sleeveless aline dress with a black hair bow. Nolan is wearing a maroon and white striped polo shirt with light wash denim jeans.
| CONT. FROM PG. 22
ensure they feel prepared and confident every day.
“We are committed to empowering students and families to find greater joy and purpose in their lives through these connections with others,” Garcia said.
Currently what the closet is most in need of is gently used school clothing such as jeans for boys and girls, polo shirts, tennis shoes in all sizes and undergarments for both boys and girls. Toiletries such as shampoo, soap, laundry detergent, wipes, dish soap and deodorant are also in need at the Connections Center.
Donations can be made to the district’s Connections Center located at 3002 Suite J North St, Monday- Friday by dropping off their items anytime between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Staff members of the Connections Center can also meet people at their vehicles Monday through Friday from noon to 4 p.m. next to the tennis courts. Give them a call at 361-788-9909 approximately 15 minutes before arriving in order to ensure a staff member is there.
DREAMS BRINGING To Life
Outlaw Pass maintains supremacy through family values and homegrown love
Mark Mize, founder and owner of Outlaw Pass, opens up the history books on how he and his wife, Julie, made an ambitious dream into a spectacular reality. Recently celebrating eight years this past March, Outlaw Pass has a coming of age story like no other and with roots close to home, this safety-designated and family-oriented conglomeration of inside attractions, such as an arcade room and concession, to the sprawling outdoor activities, like the ferris wheel and mini roller coaster, all situated throughout a portion of the 9.5 acre pasture bought originally as part of the inclination to stay close to Mr. Mize’s family ranch, the center has a lot to distinguish itself from the competition.
Residents of Victoria and surrounding areas have probably visited the expertly maintained grounds that make Outlaw Pass truly remarkable and one of a
kind. From the adventure golf course, hand-curated by Julie Mize herself, to the tight turns and adrenaline-inducing straights of the center’s go-kart track, Outlaw Pass offers all ages something to enjoy and experience.
“It wasn’t easy,” says owner and dreamer, Mark Mize, when asked how he found the drive and inspiration to open the park. Denied the financial backing from many institutions and navigating multiple setbacks throughout the initial process, Mr. Mize never wavered from his dream.
“I wanted to make people happy” and wanted his guests to “...go to another world and forget some of their cares…” while spending time with family, unabridged by distracting mobile technology and the monotony of daily routines. A sentiment imbued on his guests as well as his employees, genuine human connection is the
epitome of what makes Outlaw Pass special to many who visit. Dance parties and core family memories are only a few things that the center offers each guest.
Quoting God’s will for his passion and relentless pursuit of realizing such an ambitious endeavor, Mark continues to attribute his success to extensive research, including traveling to over thirty different centers nationwide and joining the International Association of Amusement Parks (IAAP), and his unwavering commitment to providing a safe environment for everyone to access a fun and wholesome experience for all ages. Even the employees, mostly consisting of high school students, enjoy interacting with the guests and forming a close knit bond with each other.
While talking to the general manager, Kelsie Wilson, safety was quoted | CONT.
CONT. FROM PG. 27
as being the staff’s top priority for people walking through the doors and employees alike. From making sure the arcade and concession inside is in tip top shape to ensuring the go-kart machines are maintained with the care and tenacity of a NASCAR pit crew, nothing is missed. With the help of a retail and customer service background as well as a marketing degree, Ms. Wilson has proven over the course of her four year tenure that there is nothing out of her purview to handle.
“I like to help people,” Ms. Wilson says on what drew her skills and talents to the gates of Outlaw Pass. “It’s amazing seeing kids having fun and the parents appreciating our kid’s [Ms. Wilson refers to her young staff as her kids] interactions with them…” Recognizing frequent names on the books and remembering certain guest’s orders and preferences proves that passion and the fun family atmosphere draws the best people to the center, both avid fun-lovers and enthusiastic personnel.
“Safety is our number one concern,” Ms. Wilson says. “Safety, customer service, and cleanliness” are the backbone for what makes Outlaw Pass an all around enjoyable environment for children and adults alike. Between rainy day procedures to keep the gokart track and other outdoor attractions accident-free and extensive inspection checklists to ensure the throes of mechanical failure don’t overshadow a good day, the staff at Outlaw Pass are constantly working and diligently trained to keep everyone safe and enjoying themselves.
It’s a testament to the family-run and locally owned entertainment center and their unbridled dedication to keep
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their family values at heart. Mark Mize has worked tirelessly over a decade to make sure he had all the right tools, equipment, and knowledge to open the best entertainment center in Texas.
“We don’t have help from big fortune 500 companies,” nor do they have a guidebook or procedure manual to starting an amusement park from scratch and running it without a client funnel from bigger parks – it was all individually and independently researched, planned, and brought to fruition. When his dream was finally realized, thanks to First Community Bank and the small business development center located inside UHV, it was because Mr. Mize and his family put in the work and continue to do so every single day. Through natural disasters like Hurricane Harvey that rampaged the area in 2017, and pandemics such as the onslaught of the coronavirus in 2020, the Outlaw Pass family have weathered every storm and every obstacle, all thanks to their combined efforts to keeping the best entertainment center in Texas Victoria’s best kept secret. With plans to expand the parking lot, build new structures such as a proposed outdoor stage for live music, and extend the interior game room, Outlaw Pass is certainly setting itself up to be an iconic place for years to come to spend time with family and friends.
For those who prefer the cooler months to enjoy, Outlaw Pass offers winter reservations and amusement availability when the debilitating Texas sun is less aggressive. In fact, the months between late September and early March have proven to be the center’s busiest time of year, but be prepared to book in advance as the reservation book fills up faster than the racers on the go-kart track.
Once the rush to prepare for the 2024-2025 school year is finished, and the kids are carted back to the classroom, moms and dads, and certainly teachers (after hours) may want to pump the brakes and enjoy one of the Victoria area’s award-winning glasses of wine.
Three local wineries are relatively new to the game, the oldest being 14 years in business, but no matter, each has had enough time on the shelf (or in the cellar as it may be) to earn awards and places on the menus in some of the finest restaurants in the area and beyond.
With historic and bucolic settings, each offers a quiet place to breathe deeply and imbibe in a calming drink as old as human history.
LAVACA BLUFFS CORK & KEG
It’s hard to escape history in this neck of the woods (and why would you want to?). With the kids back in
school, parents can enjoy a lively history lesson of their own, with an awardwinning glass of wine and an engaging storyteller, to boot.
“Once upon a time. That’s where all good stories start,” Doug Reed likes to say, as he pours a glass of his wine and prepares to spin a yarn and surprise his listeners.
Reed and his wife, Beth, are both retired teachers. Doug Reed taught history for many years before moving into school administration.
The pair retired into the wine-making business, opening a winery 14 years ago on the banks of the Lavaca River, in Lolita, near Garcitas Creek, where European history in Texas was born.
The setting for the Lavaca Bluffs Cork & Keg is beautiful, overlooking the Lavaca River, near its lush, grassy banks,
Top, middle and bottom, Lavaca Bluffs Cork & Keg
as it idly snakes past the historic creek and into Matagorda Bay.
Both Reeds have deep roots in the area and can tell the tale just about better than anyone, beginning with the surprising story of “Dead Bob.”
To hear Dead Bob’s story, listeners may choose to sip the winery’s American peach chardonnay called the “La Belle.”
Bob was a sailor aboard the La Belle, one of five ships that sailed together and carried the first European settlers to the area in 1684. Bob, however, never made it off the doomed ship.
“Two of the ships went back to France. Two ran aground and were lost,” Reed said. “The La Belle went across Matagorda Bay just as a Norther blew in and the ship floundered and went down.
“So, the ship stayed at the bottom of Matagorda Bay for 300 years. In about 1995 it was discovered in 15 feet of water. They built a cofferdam around it, pumped the water off and, low and behold, there was the La Belle. In the bow of the boat they found the remains of one French sailor coiled up in rope, and as they worked around, they started referring to him as ‘Dead Bob.’
“After a while, it came time to take Dead Bob off the vessel, so they slid a piece of Plexiglass under the rope, Dead Bob and all, took him off, sent the skeleton to do some DNA testing and then offered him back to the French government, who declined. Texas gave him a state funeral. So, if you go to the Texas State Cemetery, there is his marker: ‘Unknown French Sailor, Mort Robert.’ Dead Bob.”
The Cork & Keg sits on land that was “part of the original Stephen F. Austin Old 300 Land Grant and has witnessed Karankawa Indians, early explorers, Spanish and American colonists, settlers, soldiers, ranchers and traders.”
The Reeds have named their awardwinning wines after historic bits of Crossroads history. The label on one wine called “Ten Friends” tells the story of Martin de Leon, Victoria’s founder. But, why read, when Reed will tell you the tale, in a delightful manner, as he pours?
Another red wine is simply named “Victoria,” in honor of the city. During the bicentennial year, why not enjoy a
LAVACA BLUFFS CORK & KEG
TEXAS SOUTH WIND
VINEYARD & WINERY
glass and hear its history? Reed tells it well.
TEXAS SOUTHWIND VINEYARD & WINERY
Off to the south, through Goliad and past the Presidio la Bahia Historic Site, on land that once belonged to the O’Connor family, sits another gem of a winery, Texas SouthWind Vineyard & Winery, located at 163745 US 183, Refugio.
Opened in 2009, the winery “is nestled between two historic towns, Refugio and Goliad, on 145 acres of beautiful ranch land that is only reminiscent of South Texas.”
One of the winery's most popular blends, Purple Rose Sweet Red, was awarded “Best in Class” in the 2024 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.
Brad Balleu pours wine most days in the tasting room. His wife is a teacher, he said, so he understands the start of
IF YOU GO:
LAVACA BLUFFS CORK & KEG
172 Private Rd #4261 Lolita, TX 77971
Thursday 12-6 p.m.
Friday 12-6 p.m.
Saturday 12-6 p.m.
Sunday 2-6 p.m.
GULF BREEZE WINERY
3005 FM1685, Victoria, TX 77905
Friday 5-8 p.m.
Saturday 1-8 p.m.
Sunday 1-5 p.m.
TEXAS SOUTH WIND VINEYARD
& WINERY
16375 US-183, Refugio, TX 78377
Monday 12-5 p.m.
Tuesday 12-5 p.m.
Wednesday 12-5 p.m.
Friday 12-5 p.m.
Saturday 12-5 p.m.
GULF BREEZE WINERY
Lavaca Bluffs Cork & Keg
the school year being a good time for a relaxing sip.
“I like to call the Purple Rose wine, grape juice for adults,” he quipped. It certainly is a sweet, tasty blend.
As at the Lavaca Bluffs Cork & Keg, many of the wines on the shelf at SouthWind are adorned with medals and ribbons of every sort.
SouthWind grows Black Spanish Grapes on site and boasts true fruit wines, using only the fermented fruits indicated on the label, including peach, blackberry, apple and more, Balleu said.
The Blackberry Fruit Wine, Balleu added, is a best seller, “rich and heavy like eating blackberries.”
GULF BREEZE WINERY
Closer to home, at 3005 Farmto-Market Road 1685, in Victoria County, Morgan Hale and his father Daryl Hale opened their Gulf Breeze Winery about seven years ago.
The wines are sold across Texas and to many restaurants locally. They offer tastings on-site, and patrons are received by the cutest of hostesses.
Bedecked in a yellow bandana, the owner’s friendly little dog Mison greets each guest with a wide-eyed request for a pat on her head.
The wine selection includes a delicious, naturally flavored AcaiRaspberry Red, as well as selections flavored with blueberry, peach, apple, pomegranate and wildberry.
HEALTHY back to school
Flunches and snacks
STORY BY KATIE STEINHAUER | KSTEINHAUER@VICAD.COM
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATIE STEINHAUER AND CONTRIBUTED TO DISCOVER
uel is the spice of life…
Okay, maybe it is ‘variety’, but no one said variety and food can’t co-exist. Proper nutrition is imperative for developing minds and curating an extensive recipe list that meets every individual’s needs and preferences is a daunting task. Luckily, our very own Katherine Compton, a food column journalist and mom has agreed to share some of her favorite go to recipes.
“OATMEAL BANANA BARS” INGREDIENTS
• 2 -3 past their prime bananas
• 1/4 c vegetable oil
• 1/4 c firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 c flour
1 c old fashioned oats
1/4 c white chocolate chips
1 tbsp. creamy peanut butter
PROCESS
Mash the bananas in a bowl using a hand mixer or in the bowl of a stand mixer. When mashed but still slightly chunky, stir in oil and brown sugar. When they are fully combined add the egg, vanilla, and salt, and mix well. Stir in baking soda, then the flour and finally the oats and mix until thoroughly mixed, batter will be slightly lumpy. Spread into a buttered 8x8” pan and bake for 18-20 minutes in a preheated 350 degree oven until browned around the edges and the center is just set. Cool completely and top with a drizzle made of the white chocolate chips and peanut butter melted together in the microwave. Cut into bars and serve with fruit and bacon for an easy breakfast.
FROZEN YOGURT BANANA BARS SHEET PAN EGGS
“SHEET PAN EGGS”
INGREDIENTS
• 12 eggs
PROCESS
Preheat oven to 425 degrees
Prepare baking sheet with lined foil and spray with cooking oil
Crack all eggs onto sheet, making sure to keep the yolks separate for easy cutting and avoid getting shells involved
Season with salt and pepper and any other desired seasonings
Bake until desired yolk center: 8 minutes for runny
10 minutes for soft boil
12 minutes for hard boil
Serve as main dish or combine with bacon and hashbrowns for full breakfast flavors
Prepare the batter: combine mix, eggs, and milk in large bowl until only slightly lumpy
Pour melted butter into a sheet pan and spread around. Pour batter into pan and spread evenly
Add toppings: just drop into wet batter
Bake in preheated oven until golden brown - about 12 - 15 minutes
Cut into large squares and serve with maple syrup
Long time Victoria resident and local business owner, , shared some of her most coveted recipe hacks just perfect for those hectic schedules and busy minds. All of the ones here are available at her store, ParaVida Wellness, located at 1405 E. Airline Rd. Most of the recipes recommended by Ms. Briggs include a protein, a fruit or vegetable or both, and a starch - but be vigilant to wash all produce before consumption to limit the contaminants and be mindful of where your ingredients are sourced as some can contain harsher additives.
FRUIT & YOGURT SNACK BOX
Perfect for a grab and go craving eliminator, or as a refreshing midday pick me up, the simplistic pairing of washed fruits with a delectable dollop of coconut yogurt combined with
coconut milk is quick and easy to prepare for the busy week. This snack box can be enjoyed as a standalone snack or paired with other protein combinations for a balanced meal.
CHICKEN & EGG PROTEIN BOX
This box contains juicy bite-sized cubes of oven roasted chicken breast, seasoned with organic garlic powder, Himalayan pink salt, and organic black pepper and cooked in extra virgin olive oil, a handful of organic blueberries and organic unsalted almonds, and paired with one soft boiled organic egg. Containing every form of protein and healthy fats needed for a sharp mind and energized body, this protein box is as simple as it is
EGG & CHICKEN PROTEIN BOX
| CONT. FROM PG.37
delicious.
CLEAN PLATE CHICKEN SALAD BOX
An enriching combination of clean plate chicken salad, chickpea hummus, sliced cucumbers, and seed crackers, this protein-rich box has all the essential grains and protein to kickstart an active day.
Erica Briggs started her health journey in 2014 to prepare for bringing her daughter to the world and soon realized a passion for sharing her newfound health knowledge with people in her life, starting with her mother-in-law. ParaVida Wellness has grown from that passion to share clean living and real food. With plans to open a café near DeTar in the coming months that will serve a selection of wraps, protein bowls, and clean beverages, ParaVida Wellness is the one stop shop for all of the knowledge, recipes, and pre-made meals and snacks prepared by Ms. Briggs’ expert team of nutrition professionals fostered by her innate desire to foster “clean living through real food”.
“The more you can get away from processed foods, the better your
CLEAN PLATE CHICKEN SALAD PLATE
health,” Ms. Briggs said about the biggest step people can make toward more health-conscious decisions for satisfying hunger. “At the end of the day it's as simple as finding real food.”
ParaVida Wellness offers client-based catering and customizable boxes and meals that can be ordered and picked up locally. Boxes typically range from $5.99 to $7.99 but can vary on the options chosen.
A bonus recipe perfect for these hot summer months is frozen yogurt fruit bars. It takes minutes to prepare and is delectable beyond flavor - it also provides a cool snack to enjoy in spite of that hostile Texas heat.
“FROZEN YOGURT BANANA BARS”
INGREDIENTS
• 2-3 ripe bananas
• 4 cups Greek yogurt
• 1 cup
peanut butter (or other nut butter substitute)
PROCESS
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
Pour yogurt evenly over the baking sheet until about ¼ - ½ inch thick
Place banana pieces evenly throughout yogurt base
In a small microwaveable bowl, heat peanut butter for 15-30 seconds, just until slightly melted
Drizzle peanut butter over the sheet with banana pieces and yogurt until evenly coated
Freeze for 24 hours, then cut into inch squares
Best served cold, keep frozen
Breakfast and snacks are not the only important meal of the day. Kristen Bienek, the preschool director of the local YMCA, has shared some of the meals prepared
Meal from the YMCA early learing center that includes corn, green beans and chicken and rice casserole.
by Unidine Corporation and provided everyday for the preschoolers who attend. Bienek affirms that the meals are within childcare nutrition guidelines which entail being “less in sugar, reduced salt, and proper balance of proteins, carbs, and fats. The meals consist of meats, fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.” The meals are also accompanied with 2% milk and never serve flavored milks.
Some of the meals that were prepared for the YMCA early learning center in June included hamburger steak with mashed potatoes and roasted broccoli, chicken rice casserole with green beans, and roasted pork with potato wedges and California vegetables. The important thing to remember for proper nutrition is to balance every carb, protein, and grain while avoiding sugar-heavy drinks.
CHECKLIST ULTIMATE SCHOOL
With academics right around the corner, it’s important to stock up on the right gear that young minds need to thrive when they go back to the classroom. Whether your student is heading to middle school or back to the dorm, this comprehensive list of curated supplies will be your one stop shop for a successful year.
Most students can’t get very far without pencils, paper, and notebooks. Luckily, Target, located at 7608 Zac Lentz Parkway, hosts a plethora of cute designs and ample writing utensils. From an artfully tasted decomposition book to a nifty accessory bag to store all the great ideas, these must-haves range in price
Stylish and fun, these composition books are for sale at Target for $8.99 and come in many different designs.
These Magellan brand backpacks are essential to a good school year and priced at $19.99 at Academy Sports and Outdoors, easily the cheapest options out there.
With back to school comes the new season for athletics. Be sure to grab your themed mouth guards at Academy Sports and Outdoors for $24.99
Make the most out of your schedule with these stylish and diverse planners at Walmart. Large is $4.88, Medium is $7.97, Pocket is $5.88
Grab your college student some storage alternatives with these versatile canvas storage bins for $4.88
from $8.99 to $19.99 and will be sure to spark the more creative side of your student.
No school year or semester is complete without a backpack to carry your student’s books across campus and to their next class. Academy Sports and Outdoors, located at 8903 N. Navarro St., boasts a large selection of multi-purpose bags. Each with a water cup net and pencil pouch on the front, these durable packs will accompany your student through every class and lecture with ease.
With athletics soon upon us as well, Academy also sports the best selection of football pads and helmets, mouth guards, and sweat bands, so your athlete can hit the ground running for the new year. Riddell football pads: $79.99; Riddell football helmet: $279.99; Shock Doctor Mouth Guards: $24.99.
Planning around another exciting year of learning is taxing but with the help of a few supplies from Walmart on Navarro, disorganization and time mismanagement is a thing of the past. Before sending your student into the cramped hallways, make sure to snag a few plastic folders with pockets ($2.14), or paper folders ($1.48) if that’s what suits them best, a wide range of planners, starting from pocket size ($5.88) to full size ($4.88), and don’t forget a fun sticky note pack ($7.86) to ensure no deadline is missed or assignment late.
For those heading to a campus, or perhaps settling in a new dorm space, storage and organization is going to be sparse. A good way to securely and neatly store small to medium odds and ends are the designer canvas storage boxes, which can be found at Walmart in the furniture section for $4.88. Adorn a few of these in one of their various cube organizer shelves ($29.98 - $39.98) and you’ll have a decorative solution to the challenge of limited living space.
Gearing up for the school year is not quite done yet, even with all these fantastic suggestions for supplies, it is just as important to make sure your student is ready to tackle the challenges by getting enough sleep, ensuring proper nutrition, and planning breaks for a mental recharge.
Kaitlin Lopez, a UHV criminal justice major, navigated numerous challenges while conquering a hectic class schedule, demanding athletics, the responsibilities of being a resident assistant, and also fitting time to study for exams and foster her personal hobbies. Lopez credits her time management skill and
physically planning out her day for her academic and pre-career success.
“I thought of my time like budgeting money,” Lopez said, “Certain blocks [of time] went to athletics, certain blocks went to school and studying, the rest was kind of free time.” Similar to budgeting finances, Lopez set aside certain “blocks” of time during her day to focus on one thing at a time and to avoid burnout and feelings of being overwhelmed. “I just planned things I had to do and the rest I adjusted as it went. I found a routine.”
With only twenty-four hours in a day, eight of them sitting in a classroom, managing the remaining hours is crucial to being successful academically and personally. In a higher education setting, time management is one of the top three habits of successful students according to Woodrow Wilson Wagner, UHV professor of political science and speech, who has been on the frontlines of successful students for almost twenty-five years.
“Number one is communication,” Wagner said, in regard to the commonalities between his successful alumni. “You [the student] have got to take the initiative. There’s no stupid question.” Time management is a close second for things most of his successful students employ, and sometimes mapping out each test, assignment, and studying time is imperative to a successful year.
sets up expectations for studying, for working, and for being an active participant in class. Lopez, who has been implementing the habit for her entire UHV career, concurred.
“You’re balancing four or five classes at once, expected to read multiple chapters for each class, you’re expected to go over the lecture notes, you’re expected to take a quiz or exam for multiple classes each week,” she said. Lopez also stresses to other students to set aside blocks of time for hobbies and personal decompression. It’s important to have these allocated in any schedule to reduce the strain of burnout. “Make sure you have time to spend by yourself and take care of yourself [because] if your cup is empty, you don’t have anything to give to other people,” Lopez said.
Wagner has been teaching at UHV for five years as well as serving as the Director of Institutional Strategies which is mainly responsible for managing the various programs and resources in place for students. In this role, Wagner researches and identifies areas of opportunity to foster the UHV values, and helps achieve their main goal of “meeting the student where they’re at to get them where they want to be.”
Wagner explained that for all of his incoming students during the freshman seminar, the first thing he does is walk them through setting up a “master calendar to chart their lives.” This helps visualize their day-to-day obligations,
A part of that endeavor is recognizing that each student has individual needs and unique challenges that must be handled with care. “You can hold the standard but still be nurturing, point out additional resources available, and appreciate where they’re at, “Dr. Wagner said.
“Isn’t that the fundamental thing [as teachers], to connect with students where they’re at to get them to another place?”
Communication, time management, and adequately preparing for each day, whether that is knowing every obligation, getting proper nutrition and sleep, or making sure to set time aside for personal interests, are all crucial to ensuring a successful new year.
Nothing is as recognizable as the Nike swish, beautifully adorned on this perfect companion for back to school and priced at $57 at Academy Sports and Outdoors
Target is offering these accessory bags in various designs and sizes for $12.99 to $18.99
WhatchaHEY MOM, Doin’?
Summer break can be full of vacations to beaches, traveling out of state, or attending theme or water parks. Maybe your family stays in town and partakes in any of the many Victoria recreational activities. Either way, the kids enjoying their summer breaks don’t realize all the work parents have to do so their kids can have a funfilled summer. For two months, suddenly stay-at-home moms are doubling their time providing and entertaining their children with no school.
Certainly moms love the extra time, but now that school is swinging back in gear, moms have some breathing room. Some moms may find themselves stuck with “analysis paralysis.” So much more free time!
Alicia Cano, Victoria, is staring down her first school year where both her kids will be in school.
“I haven’t been able to get my hair done in over a year because my days have been full of chores and work,” she said. “So on day one, I want to have a spa day for myself! Hair, nails, foot massage.”
Cano now has options and the energy and time to pursue things.
“Then I want to get back in shape! I'll have time for the gym and doctors appointments that I've been putting off because for me my kids always came first,” she said. “It's time Mama took care of Mama!”
Victoria is filled with different activities for every kind of mom. Here are some of the top ideas to spend that precious “Mom Time.”
GET CAUGHT UP
Of course, all moms know there is always something to work on in
the house. Dishes, laundry, grocery shopping, cleaning up, it never ends. Catching up on all those chores is the first thing many moms do, because now there are no children at their heels, dividing their attention.
“My kids are in the fourth and fifth grade,” said Elizabeth Grenko of Victoria. “When they aren’t here I do a lot of housework and cooking.”
“I actually got to clean the house without it being destroyed right behind me,” said Aimee Marques, whose youngest just graduated. “And go to the grocery store without them begging for everything.”
Children are precious, and should be loved and appreciated, but they are also 100% guilty of cluttering a home. Having the time and space to clean at her leisure would certainly make chores less stressful.
GET SOME TIME TO YOURSELF (SPA DAY)
Mom is always busy making sure everyone else is dressed, ready, and fed,
that sometimes, she’s the last person served. Take some time to treat yourself and get pampered.
Places like Woodhouse Day Spa offer the go-tos such as massages and facials, but also full body experiences to be “immersed in luxury,” just like mom deserves.
Bethany Pompa, mother of one, gets mani-pedis with her own mom through the school year.
“It’s just nice to get out of the house and do something nice for myself,” she said.
GET YOUR FITNESS, GIRL! (FITNESS CLASSES)
Plenty of moms don’t have the time or space to work on their physical fitness, and some are not interested in it. But for those moms who love to be on the move and push their bodies, Victoria has several different options of intensities to try out.
Riverside Park has its nature trail loop of 3.5 to 5 miles for walkers and joggers. And the Hike and Bike Trail, which begins on Airline and ends at Victoria East High school for those on the other side of town. Both of these trails are
adult crafts activities for those who just want to do art without the pressure of doing it “well.” Bad Art activities are a big hit at the library because there is no expectation of creating a masterpiece, it’s just a chance to express yourself and make something out of nothing.
GET YOUR BREAD, GIRLBOSS! (SIDE GIGS)
Of course, just like older kids get a part time job during the summer, moms can also make a little extra cash now that more of their day is free.
popular for birding, biking and running while still enjoying some solitude.
Though solo activities may not be what mom wants, after all, there is a lot of fun in participating in group exercise classes. The YMCA offers group biking classes, kettlebell sessions, and of course funky Zumba sessions.
GET YOUR INNER ARTIST AN OUTLET (ART HOUSE, CRAFTERS)
There’s always a kid in your class whose mom made a homemade gift for their teacher, or perhaps helps to decorate school events. Now those moms get the chance to do arts and crafts for themselves. The artsy moms have several options in town to express their artistic side if they want to get out of the house.
The Crossroads Art House, located at 2914 N Laurent, offers pottery, animation, and mixed media classes through the month for those interested. Some artists at the Crossroads Art House offer more unique classes like digital art and stained glass for those who want to try new things.
Also, the Library occasionally offers
Businesses are flexible with moms who need or want to work. Tracy Walck works part time at Double J Eatery when she gets a chance. Part-time jobs are great for that extra money, but oftentimes, mom just wants to get out of the house and talk and work with other adults for a change of pace.
“I just love the customers,” Walck said. “And the owners are really the best.”
GET YOUR READ ON (BOOK CLUBS)
There’s nothing like sitting down with tea or coffee and getting to read a book in your To Be Read pile in peace. And while having the time to get absorbed in a book is great, it can be even more fulfilling and engaging to share your thoughts on your latest reads with others.
The library hosts several book clubs, such as the True Crime Book Club, and the No Pressure Book Club held at a local business downtown. There are also several Victoria Facebook groups like Top Cat Book Club that offer a fun place for book discussions, recommendations, and challenges for the mom that loves books and doesn’t want to commit to leaving the house.
CONT. FROM PG. 45
GET OUT AND GIVE BACK (VOLUNTEERING)
work as you want it to be.
Some moms are caretakers in all that they do, and take their time to give back to the community around them. They need to scratch that all-encompassing itch of helping others.
Organizations like Christ’s Kitchen welcome all volunteers to help feed the hungry in Victoria with no judgment. VISD also offers many opportunities to volunteer. Volunteers can do as much as helping set-up, run, and break down special events to being intramural coaches for the middle school sports programs, allowing something for everyone.
GET YOUR THUMB GREEN (GARDENING)
A garden is a wonderful excuse to get outside, get Vitamin D, fresh air while tending to something that could be rewarding hard work, or just meditation while trimming and watering your plants. A garden is completely customizable, it can be exactly as much
“Your garden needs you so it’s guaranteed down time. Other hobbies you will get busy and tell yourself you don’t have time and before you know it, you never do it,” said Rebecca Francoeur. “But with a garden, if you don’t tend to it, you won’t succeed, it may even die, so you actually have to prioritize it and it forces you to have that “me time.””
GET EDUCATED
When it’s time to invest in yourself, a surefire way is to continue your education. With not one, but two colleges in Victoria, there are a multitude of classes mom can take to continue her education. Though some just have a passion for learning, and why not? You can never learn too much.
Victoria College offers associate degree programs to be completed at your own pace, GED prep classes, bridge programs for health and trade careers, and even English as a Second Language classes. No matter where your interest lies, there is an opportunity to increase your knowledge, self-interests and even your earning potential.
And it doesn’t have to be as huge a commitment as a degree. There are organizations who host programs that teach certain skills and even receive real certifications.
The Golden Crescent MOMS group offers different resources for moms at different stages of motherhood, even those who just became pregnant.
The team leader of GC-MOMS, Kat Hicl, said “we want to connect moms to others who may feel the same as they do, and to the resources to better support them.”
All their classes are free, such as their Mental Health & First Aid class offered at Christ’s Kitchen.
Motherhood is a beautiful and all-consuming journey. We celebrate motherhood and honor moms, of course, but sometimes those moms want to get out there and do things for themselves with no other purpose than to do something just for them. These activities provide self-betterment opportunities, but also a chance to meet like-minded people if they choose, making our community closer.
And moms just deserve it.
So, Mom, whatcha doing?
|
Read Your e-Editio
EL COLIBRI AND RADICAL REPTILES ABOUT TOWN
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
ASHLEY RAMBO | ARAMBO@VICAD.COM
El Colibri, or the hummingbird, proved to be as beautiful and refined as its namesake, celebrating every facet of Mexican culture and exploring the different subcultures held within her borders.
The hummingbird represents “blessings and beauty” as well as believed to be messengers of passed loved ones, sending love and guidance across the divide. The significance of the night’s performance to the group is a heartfelt attribution to the performers’ drive to spread love and beauty across the world through their hard work and dedication to continuing traditions that are sometimes lost to time.
The June performance at the Victoria Fine Arts Center, having been rehearsed and refined since September, conjured visuals of dreamy Baja, California, down through the Michoacán state, over to the Yucatan, until taking the audience on a tour through culturally ripe Jalisco. Complete with stunning homemade dresses and suits, handmade props and accessories and homegrown passion and love, Grupo Folklorico has been offering their audiences spectacular visualizations of Mexican culture in Victoria and around the competition circuit since 2019, where it was briefly disrupted by the infamous coronavirus pandemic.
This did not dispel the efforts of the group however, slowly gaining new members and a fresh following as the pandemic petered out and interest in the art rose. What started as a small localized group of dancers has since evolved into a harbinger of generational storytelling centered around folklore, expressed through dance. The group has now amassed over 50 members, including four different classes of performer range (ages 3-4, elementary age, junior high age, and high school/adult) each bringing their own creative vision and personal experience to create a truly immersive atmosphere of cultural expression and the
Anastacia Morales
Anna Arrendondo
passion to continue traditional Mexican values.
“A part of our culture with each generation is lost a little bit,” Ernest Adame Jr., co-founder of Grupo Folklórico de Victoria, director of the organization and performer of the exhibitions, said. He is fifth generation, and between his cousins and himself, none of them speak Spanish.
“I think it’s really important to stick to our roots and understand where we come from and how beautiful our heritage is,” he said.
RADICAL REPTILES
The Bronte Room of the Victoria Public Library was overflowing with excited kids and parents. The children pointed and gasped as Michael Price from Edna’s Texana Community Education Center held a baby crocodile and walked around the room. Snakes slithered and squirmed in their display cases. A greater short-horned lizard rested, no cage, right on the table. Some kids even brought their own snake pillows wrapped around their necks.
The Victoria Public Library hosted a Radical Reptile learning lab in late June. Kids of all ages, reptile lovers and not, learned about reptiles native to Texas, then were allowed to pet a few brought from the Texana Community Education Center in Edna. Over 300 people attended the Radical Reptiles event, so many that several families waited eagerly in the foyer for a closer look at the reptiles.
Price has been with the Texana Nature Center for five years but has studied reptiles for 30 years. He was no stranger to keeping the kids calm and laughing. He has taught hundreds of people about turtles, alligators, snakes and lizards.
“I just love seeing the kids’ eyes light up with amazement, and the parents’ response, too,” he said. “You can go to any zoo, and they can love reptiles or hate them. But they all go see them anyway.”
Leslie Klaire, of Victoria, who brought her four grandkids, was surprised about some of the facts.
“I didn’t know you could easily tell the difference between a snapping turtle and a regular turtle by how long the snappers’ tails are,” she said. “And that snapping turtles are only 25% of all Texas turtles are snappers.”
Klaire’s grandkids are visiting, and she thought this was a great event for the kids.
All four kids are reptile enthusiasts.
“Snakes are my favorite because they can be all sorts of colors.” said Asa Willingham. “I like snakes because I like how they slither in your hands.”
Christian Macias
Ernest Adame Jr.
Christopher Cox
UPCOMING
Calendar of Events
AUGUST | THROUGH | OCTOBER
EDUCATIONAL, FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENTS
BICENTENNIAL 2024 OLD VICTORIA TROLLEY TOUR
Aug. 10 − 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Victoria County Courthouse, 101 N. Bridge St., Victoria
To celebrate as Victoria Turns 200, we'll be offering just that! Once a month, the beautiful trolley from Texas Coast Limousines will take attendees along the oak-lined streets in and around downtown Victoria to see our most venerable structures.
BALLET FOLKLORICO LOS ANGELITOS PRESENTS ‘MEXICO IN THE WORLD’
Aug. 10 − 6:30 p.m.
Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts, 214 N. Main St., Victoria Ballet Folklorico Los Angelitos is from an orphanage in Manzanillo, Colima, Mexico. As part of the educational curriculum, the kids in this orphanage learn how to folklorico dance.
KING OF COWTOWN TOUR FEAT. WILLIAM L. MARTIN
Aug. 24 − 7:30 p.m.
Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts, 214 N. Main St., Victoria
Prepare for a night of uncontrollable laughter and clever humor that transcends generations. With a career steeped in family values and humor that's clean yet brilliantly funny.
MUSEUM OF THE COASTAL BEND EXHIBIT EXPANSION OPENING
Sept. 7
Museum of the Coastal Bend, 2200 E. Red River St., Victoria Celebrate with the Museum of the Coastal
Bend and they open their brand new extension, housing permanent exhibit items.
VIVA
TEXAS FILM FESTIVAL
Sept. 13-15 − 4 p.m.
120 S. Main St., Victoria
Come enjoy the Independent Films, Discover Victoria, TX and its many historic sites, meet local artists and artisans and see all that Victoria has to offer.
BICENTENNIAL 2024 OLD VICTORIA TROLLEY TOUR
Sept. 14 − 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Victoria County Courthouse, 101 N. Bridge St., Victoria
To celebrate as Victoria Turns 200, we'll be offering just that! Once a month, the beautiful trolley from Texas Coast Limousines will take attendees along the oak-lined streets in and around downtown Victoria to see our most venerable structures.
VICTORIA BALLET THEATRE 40TH ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTION
Sept. 28
DeLeon Plaza, Victoria
TEJAS FEST
Oct. 4-5
DeLeon Plaza, Victoria
MUSEUMS IN THE CROSSROADS
CHILDREN'S DISCOVERY MUSEUM OF THE GOLDEN CRESCENT
Tuesday-Saturday − 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
1205 Sam Houston Drive, Victoria 361-485-9140
MUSEUM OF THE COASTAL BEND
10 a.m.-4 p.m.
2200 E. Red River St., Victoria 361-582-2511
The Museum of the Coastal Bend is located on the campus of Victoria College at the corner of Ben Jordan and Red River in historic Victoria, Texas. The college’s street address is 2200 East Red River. Free visitor parking is available. Admission is pay-what-you-want.
THE NAVE MUSEUM
Saturday and Sunday. − Noon-4 p.m.
Tuesday-Friday − Noon-5 p.m.
306 W. Commercial St., Victoria 361-520-4458
Since opening in 2002, the Children’s Discovery Museum has worked continuously to be a community resource providing interactive educational opportunities and engaging family experiences for residents and visitors.
The museum is proud to host five to six art exhibitions per year featuring the works of local, regional, and national artists. Featuring a selection of fine art mediums, including paintings, sculptures, and handmade items as diverse as quilts and wood carvings, the goal of the Nave Museum is to enlighten, enrich, and educate through visual and cultural art.
FIVE POINTS MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
Wednesday-Sunday − Noon-5 p.m.
1201 N. Moody St., Victoria
Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art
361-572-0016
The museum is also dedicated to furthering multidisciplinary arts and education through programs coordinated with community organizations, area school districts, and institutions of higher learning.The museum is independently funded, and admission is always free of charge for visitors.
CHISHOLM TRAIL HERITAGE MUSEUM
Tuesday-Saturday − 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
302 N. Esplanade St., Cuero 361-277 2866
The Chisholm Trail Western Museum tells the stories of DeWitt County's rich agricultural and cowboy histories.
CUERO HERITAGE MUSEUM
Monday-Saturday − 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
124 E. Church St., Cuero, 361-485-8090
The museum offers many wonders and is dedicated to celebrating the people of Cuero and their unique heritage. Visit the permanent and rotating exhibits to visually explore the
The Refugio County Museum was built to suggest the log cabin style houses typical of the Texas pioneer days. The permanent exhibits trace the history of the area, from the establishment of the Spanish Mission to the immigration of Irish settlers; and the impact of ranching and oil after 1929.
TEXANA MUSEUM
Thursday-Saturday − 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
403 N. Wells St., Edna, 361-782-5431
Learn more about the native inhabitants of the Texas coast, the Karankawa, and their role in the La Salle expedition. Discover more early Jackson County history with the museum's eclectic relics, including a mastodon’s jaw, a cowboy’s chuck box, and a working piano shipped in 1860 from New England to Texas.
