By your on-the-ground reporter, sharing every heartbeat of the event!

Friday: The Opening Crescendo

The sun had barely set over Corpus Christi when the 72nd Annual Coastal Bend Jamboree burst into life. The air was electric with anticipation, and as I stepped into the venue, I was immediately swept up by the warmth and camaraderie radiating from every corner. Volunteers and committee members, the unsung heroes of this gathering, greeted everyone with smiles that could light up the darkest night.

The festivities began with a stirring flag ceremony. I had the honor of carrying in the flag for the Primary Purpose Group, a meeting that gathers every Sunday at 6:00 PM at the Wenholz House in downtown Corpus Christi. The pride of holding that brand-new flag—symbolizing unity and purpose—was a moment I’ll never forget.

Then, the crowd hushed as Belinda F from New Orleans, LA, took the stage as our keynote speaker. Her story was nothing short of electrifying—her words soared, her delivery crackled with energy, and the audience was spellbound. I waited for the crowd to thin before approaching her, eager to soak in her wisdom firsthand.

The night rolled on with sing-along bingo, laughter echoing through the halls. I even met the overall winner, whose joy was infectious. Friday ended with exhaustion, but also with a heart full of gratitude.

Saturday: New Connections and Unstoppable Spirit

Despite the late night, I found myself at the 7:00 AM men’s meeting, surrounded by new friends from across Texas and beyond. The sense of fellowship was palpable—each handshake and shared story weaving a tapestry of hope. Registration numbers were strong, and the buzz was that next year would be even bigger.

The morning chill couldn’t dampen spirits at the inaugural fun run, organized by Jimmy M. The wind howled, the cold nipped, but the runners—driven by determination—showed up and conquered. Reports declared it a resounding success, and there’s talk of even better weather next year.

At 10 AM, John M (Red) from Greenville, SC, took the microphone. His story resonated deeply, and the room was filled with nods of understanding and bursts of laughter. Later, I joined the Al-Anon speaker session with KC from Horseshoe Bay, TX. Her tale was moving, and her husband—one of our own—sat proudly in the front row, a testament to the power of support and love.

The old-timers meeting was a highlight. The speaker with the most sobriety time—an awe-inspiring 58 years—shared wisdom that rippled through the crowd. From 58 years down to 31, every story was a beacon of hope, punctuated by laughter and heartfelt applause.

Saturday Evening: New Traditions and Unforgettable Music

As the day unfolded, excitement built for the first-ever Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA) speaker, Jamal W from Austin, TX. The inclusion of ACOA marked a new chapter for the Jamboree, broadening the circle of healing and understanding.

Dinner was a time to recharge, share stories, and anticipate the evening’s keynote: Shelley T from Tyler, TX. Her presence promised inspiration, and the crowd buzzed with anticipation.

But the night was far from over! At 9:30 PM, the Anonymity Band—comprised of talented members of our fellowship—would take the stage in the Nueces Ballroom. Music, dancing, and pure joy awaited, with tickets included in every admission. All you needed was your name badge and a readiness to celebrate life, recovery, and friendship.

Closing Thoughts: The Heartbeat of the Jamboree

As I write this, the energy is still building. Every moment at the Jamboree is a testament to the power of community, the resilience of the human spirit, and the hope that binds us all. Whether you’re here for the first time or the fifty-eighth, you’re part of something extraordinary.

So, if you’re on the premises, don’t miss a beat—join the dance, share a story, and let the magic of the 72nd Annual Coastal Bend Jamboree carry you forward. The adventure continues, and I can’t wait to see what happens next!

This live report captures the spirit, excitement, and hope of the Jamboree, as experienced and shared by your on-the-ground reporter.

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