We have lost a major inspiration for the 3 Kings train. Charles and Margaret Coval were the initial creative team for the event. On Sunday October 26, 2008, Charlie departed this life in Spring Valley, California, after a lingering battle with cancer.

He was born in Jacksonville, Florida January 2, 1945. His professional life wended its way from forest and range firefighter, through duties of superintendent of maintenance for the San Diego Trolley, to managing construction on the I-125 toll road for Parson's Engineering. Along the way he managed to be active with civic and social activities in the border region.

As a board member of the Pacific Southwest Railway Museum Association, he worked steadily to inform the public of the importance of rail transportation to the region. The reopening of the San Diego & Arizona Railway line between San Diego and the Imperial Valley was a task (achieved in 2004) he continued to pursue as President of the non-profit International Border Rail Institute. For the last ten years, the evolution of the Christmas / 3 kings Train has added a social dimension to his other rail interests.

His spirit and Margaret's continued involvement will provide guidance for the future.

 We welcome Viejas Enterprises' and the National Latino Peace Officer's Association's
expanded role in preparation of the 2009 edition of the Three Kings' journey to Tecate.

Please check back for updates.