Leslie Blasing Productions present her “Honoring an Era” at the WinterFest and Expo to be held Monday, February 9, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will be held at the South Padre Island Convention Center.

After many years of doing the event, Leslie Blasing said this year will be the last WinterFest event – so be sure to get some of the WinterFest shirts and hats that will be available for purchase. She gives a huge thanks to everyone that has made this event a great one for so many years, especially her non-volunteer volunteers – her very close friends - and is also very thankful for those that come out and support the event each year.

There is no entrance fee to the event, but Blasing is highlighting the local food pantry by collecting canned goods. Donations are not required but are encouraged and greatly appreciated. Donation bins will be located in the main entrance.

The event, held annually, honors an era – 1964 to 1973. There will be a special salute and musical tribute to Vietnam Veterans. There will also be guest speakers from the era. All speakers have a connection to something in the era, and have great things and great stories, to share.

Opening ceremonies will be held at 10:30 a.m. in the main exhibit hall with Brownville American Legion Post #43 Color Guard presenting the flags, bagpipes played by Aaron Magana, Echo Taps played by MMA Cadet Jonah Cox from Echo Company and MMA Cadet Noah Trevino from Delta Company from the Marine Military Academy in Harlingen and accompanied by Sargent Major Delvin Smythe, the Commandant of the Cadets and Bandmaster, Keith DiSantis, and an opening prayer by Pastor Greg Judd of the Island Baptist Church. Leslie will sing the National Anthem and give a big welcome to start the event.

The event will feature live music by Leslie Blasing, Geoff Clifton, and very special guests The Ladybugs. Karla’s catering will have food to purchase. Lobby and exhibit hall cantinas/cash bars are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. thanks to Louie’s Backyard.

Also, at the event there will be the All-Valley Karaoke Contest Finals, a mini museum/memorabilia room, concessions, dancing, vendors, and demonstrations. There will be a DJ and line dancing music. Door prizes will be given away every half hour. Participation in a short survey will give you a chance to win $100 cash.

Courtesy golf rides will be given from the parking lot to the front doors.

This year’s event concludes with a Masquerade Dinner and Dance on the evening of the 10th. Tickets for the event are $25 per person and can be purchased through Leslie by calling (956) 761-4347. Leave a message to arrange the ticket purchase if she does not answer.

Tickets must be purchased by the end of day today, February 4.

The doors for the dinner open at 6 p.m. and will be open seating.

If you want to stay on the Island overnight, Blasing has partnered with several Island hotels to bring you the best rates. The Courtyard Marriott can be reached at (956) 433-0590. The Hilton Garden Inn, (956) 761-8700. The Sand Rose Beachfront, (956) 772-7000. La Copa Inn, (956) 761-6000, dial “0”. Be sure to ask for the WinterFest and Expo rate when making reservations.

For more information, you can visit the website at www.spiwinterfest.com. The Convention Center is located at 7355 Padre Blvd.