The weather this year for the Clear Lake Christmas Boat Lane was clear and beautiful, except for the 20-30 knot gusts. That made it exciting, at least for the participants, as the boats jockeyed into position among 100 or so vessels, some of which sported very colorful characters such as Elvis, Santa, Mr. Grinch, Rudolph & Co., and Frosty T. Snowman. Among the brightly lit flotilla were several LYC SHS members who decorated their boats and participated in the parade. The SHS is a sponsor of the parade and offers a trophy each year for the"Most Patriotic" boat. Representing the Sam Houston Squadron of the Texas Navy, Admiral John Ebeling and wife Daryl Lynn led the parade in their boat Little D, hosting SHS Commander Donnie Genitempo, local VIP’s and the Grand Marshal, Texas Land Commissioner Jerry Patterson. Also onboard Little D, Texas Navy Association President Admiral Bill Turner and wife Sandy, and SHS Founder Admirals Jack & Alice Thomas. Admirals John & Kendra Broderick threatened to follow the tradition of Admiral Gary Anderson’s Ding Plow with their sailboat, French Kiss, but when French Kiss lost her lights halfway across the lake, the Brodericks and their crew returned to the slip at LYC and enjoyed the parade from the shore.

Admirals Tom & Marsha Taylor filled the red-white-blue bedazzled Caprice with additional Admirals and enthusiasts, including TNA Vice President Admiral John Nicholson and wife Carol, Admiral Randy & Nancy Bellard, Jeff & Janet Southard, Admiral Ann Muffeny, Admiral John Barnett, Admiral Glenn Robinson & Martha Mullins. And what to the wondering eyes did appear? Caprice with First Prize for her category this year! Rumor has it that the judges (and the spectators along the Boardwalk) were won over by the charming holiday caroling performed by the ladies of Caprice. From your SHS Texas Navy friends, Happy New Year!