Patriotic Concert

On Jan. 25th the Rockport-Fulton HS Band and Choir presented a stirring program saluting all veteran and active duty military personnel and honoring America. The choir and band members gave an outstanding performance; sound effects to enhance the music and the message exhilarated the audience. Everyone participated by standing when the music for their branch of service or their family members was played and that service flag came front and center. Everyone left with uplifted spirits and renewed appreciation for country and defenders of liberty. (Video is a bit shaky but the music is outstanding.)

Oysterfest 2009 Parade

Oysterfest is a fund-raising event for the Fulton, TX, VFD. This year our support group partnered with the Brisket Bums cook-off team to decorate and man a float for the parade. Carla helped decorate and was joined by Carol and Tommy Woodman. Along with the Brisket Bums they spread the word along the parade route. Pfc William Loosemore (on our boxing list) and 3 of his buddies from our area, all on active duty , led the float on its route and received loud cheering and support. The float won the 1st place trophy!!! Well deserved!

PGR Presents Funds

South Texas Patriot Guard Riders, along with Jersey's owners and staff, came out to Carla's to present the proceeds from the Chile Cookoff. A total of $2500 was raised to benefit the troops. Jersey's owner Mike wrote the check and presented to Dan of the PGR, who later presented it to our project. The riders had a chance to see where we work and learn more about our operation. Norma Martinez came out and covered the event for the Rockport Pilot and took a picture of everyone. DiAnne, Carla, Frances and Jimmie had fun sitting on the big bikes.

More Chile Cookoff

Carla educates folks about our project; a young Marine participates and poses with Carmen of Jersey's Bar and Grill; Frankie De La Garza and family came out (he was on our mailing list); DiAnne, Frances and Carla pose with Mrs. Rockport-Fulton.

Chile Cookoff for the Troops

On Jan. 16 a Tolbert Chile Cookoff was held at Jersey's Bar and Grill to raise money for our troops project. The Patriot Guard Riders headed up the sponsors; lots of good chile was cooked and sold; contributions and an auction garnered more $$. Active duty military and many retired and ex-military came out to lend support.

At Live Oak Elementary, Rockport

For the third year the students and staff at Live Oak, under the leadership of Susie Moss, Counselor, have filled stocking boxes for Christmas mailing. This year we had two Air Force active duty servicemen visit the school to personally thank the students for boxes they received while serving in the Middle East.

Local Churches Share the Christmas Spirit

We loaded 54 stocking boxes at First Presbyterian Church, Rockport. Beverly Jacobson of FPC coordinates the stocking box project for her church and St. Peter's Episcopal as well. Her sister coordinates from Gateway Church in Ingleside/Gregory where they also filled boxes. Full of goodies, gifts, letters and pictures, the boxes will surely brighten the season for our troops so far from home this year.