PORT ARTHUR — Krystal Kolb and her brother Cameron showed off their angling skills by landing five catfish on Saturday.

Poised at a large fish tank manned by Texas Junior Anglers, the siblings were two of many taking part in the event during Valero Kid Fest at the Carl Parker Multipurpose Center in Port Arthur on Saturday.

Krystal, 4, brought in two fish with the help of her mother, Joy, while Cameron caught three fish. Dad Chris Kolb assisted and had scrapes on his knuckles to prove it.

Jeff Scott, executive director of Texas Junior Anglers, said the tank was filled with 200 pounds of channel catfish. The group provided everything  kids needed to catch a fish including rod, reel, bait and tackle.

The Kolbs said they enjoyed the day long family event and the parents were especially pleased with security. Children are issued wristbands and their parents issued a receipt with numbers that corresponded to their child’s wristband. Numbers are checked upon departure, the mom said.

Barbara Phillips, manager of public affairs for Valero Port Arthur Refinery, said Saturday marked the third annual Valero Kid Fest.

“This year it’s bigger and better than ever,” Phillips said. “We have wonderful entertainment lined up, vendors and more. It’s a comfortable environment that’s also safe and you’re able to catch a catfish. A whole day filled with fun.”

The Carl Parker Center was filled with booths and hands-on activities for children and featured a Moon bounce and climbing wall. Outside the tent there were exhibits from Port Arthur Police Department, Fire Department, ambulance, fish tank and a tent where patrons could grab a free hot dog and drink.

Carlos Cibrian and Hallie Cibrian and their mother, Tracie Garcia, were visiting the event for the first time.

“They are learning a lot about safety,” Garcia said.

The family had stopped in front of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office display where Deputy Rod Carroll provided information about the various equipment on display as well as distributing plastic law enforcement badges to children.

The siblings each found something they liked at the Kids Fest. Carlos Cibrian said he liked “seeing all the stuff” while Hallie Cibrian enjoyed coloring a ceiling tile. A stack of ceiling tiles were available for children to color and decorate that will be featured in the Valero Pediatric Center at Christus Hospital-St. Mary.

The event was presented by Clear Channel Media and Entertainment and Valero Port Arthur Refinery and co-sponsored by Christus Hospital-St. Mary and Allen Samuels Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram.

mmeaux@panews.com