Donating a non-perishable food item during Christmas at The Beaumonts Food Drive could create a long-lasting memory for a lucky concert attendee.

Troy Wayne Delco of The Beaumonts band said the food drive at Triple Crown features unique door prizes.

“A guitar from Mazak Music, a tandem sky dive from Sky Dive San Marcos and meals from places like Chuy’s, Zen’s Pizza and Chipotle,” Delco said. “Also, someone could win a tattoo from Mark Von Diehl and clothes from Vagabond.”

Tired of talking with truckers on the citizens’ band radio? Maybe an upgrade is in order. Amateur radio, or ham, allows the operator to communicate on a broader frequency and can be vital during emergencies.

Hays Caldwell Amateur Radio Club will host an event 10 a.m. Saturday in the San Marcos Public Library for those interested in learning more.
Thomas Remmert, physics senior, said through ham radio, communication is always possible.

Diwali, the festival of lights, gave the Alkek Teaching Theatre an illuminating look Saturday.

After being diagnosed with leukemia, Lawrence Estaville, professor in the geography department, underwent two years of treatment as a participant in a clinical study.

Estaville knew things were about to change during one visit when his doctor strayed from the usual banter.

“He came in and told me the treatment was not working anymore,” Estaville said. “He said I had two options: marrow transplant or supportive care.”

Things able to be purchased with $20: Two movie tickets, a new T-shirt or a turkey dinner with all the trimmings for a deserving Hays County family.

Pat Tessaro, Hays County Food Bank Community relations coordinator, said the downturn in the economy has affected the amount of food needed.

“Last year, we served 1,375 local families, and this year we expect to aide about 1,500,” Tessaro said. “It is a pretty simple concept — $20 will give a family a turkey box.”

Sara Strick/Star photos

Ron and Audrey Hall have eaten enough curry to last a lifetime. The couple said they travel to India twice a year to work with craftsmen designing their furniture.

Podoconiosis is a debilitating disease that swells the feet and legs, causing pain and making it almost impossible for its host to walk.

According to Causecast.org, “It is estimated that in Ethiopia alone, 11 million people are at risk for podoconiosis. It is caused by barefoot exposure to silica rich soil and makes its way into the lymphatic system.”

The latest styles will be out in full force Saturday night at Luxe 2009: The Fashion Benefit.

Models will be marching down the catwalk while simultaneously raising fashion IQ’s and money for charity from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Fashion Benefit, hosted by Prime Outlets-San Marcos, gives attendees a chance to see designer goods for the cost of a $10 ticket.

The scheduled master of ceremony is celebrity stylist Mark-Alan Harmon, who, according to the Prime Outlets Web site, dressed Hollywood stars and was featured on Style Network, E! and CNN Showbiz Tonight.

Ashley Flores has a penchant for pot-bellied pigs and creating television shows.

Flores’ time at Texas State has included becoming senior advisor to the National Association of Hispanic Journalists, interning at NBC Universal and creating two bilingual television shows.

Flores, electronic media senior, said the organizations at Texas State provided her with valuable opportunities.

Stacie Andrews/Star photo

Oddities like Ralph the Swimming Pig and The Aquamaids were part of what brought tourists to Aquarena Springs, and San Marcos resident Doni Weber’s interest in writing stems from her family ties to the old attraction.