May 7, 2015
A 11
Island Moon
Airtales By Major Jason Towns, USAF (Retired) As a 29th Century Pilot- watched the barges awaiting entry into Corpus in-Command, Captain Christi Bay line up perpendicular to St. Joseph’s James Kirk had one Island and shove their massive bows into the Officer on his crew who sand, mud and vegetation on its western side. was capable of using his As reported in other news sources, the tugboats’ bean in a purely logical manner and offering engines were often running continuously solutions to problems without emotion muddling depending on tide conditions to keep the barges up the process. Mr. Spock was appreciated for lodged there. This was obvious from above as this ability aboard the Enterprise and his entire I could see the foaming water behind each tug race was supposedly essential to making sure and the exhaust pouring from their stacks. The intergalactic political decisions were the right arrangement of the barges was also haphazard and unorganized and I remember thinking ones for “needs of the many”. “There’s gotta be a better way.”
Don’t Line up the Barges that Way! Wait… There’s Barges??
Rewind to today and we see purely logical decisions made by the well-meaning and entrepreneurial among us causing uproar and hate. I’m speaking of the Lydia Ann Channel Moorings project and the fervor this simple, logical and beneficial idea is causing. Some have said this is simply a “NIMBY” issue. (This is an acronym Environmental Engineers—the discipline in which I received my own degree way too long ago-- actually used in reference to the “Not in My Back Yard” thinking of the masses.) From my observations of the Channel project and of the comments made in the media and Facebook, I’ve coined another term for what may be happening: WDITOT, which stands for “Why Didn’t I Think of That”. Containing a significant portion of the basic human emotion of envy, my new syndrome’s acronym can almost be re-arranged to form the word Idiot. Almost. I fly over the Island almost every fair-weather day of the year and spend hours reflecting on what my eyes see below me. For many years I
Suddenly a few months back I noticed the barges were now tied neatly in rows parallel to the channel. They were no longer disturbing the seabed along the island nor were their engines running. They were now in a position to get moving quickly when it was their turn to move along. They looked much neater and the scene could almost be described as, well, “scenic”. Why didn’t I think of this? Somebody had made a logical decision to a problem and it was implemented quickly. “Awesome”, I thought and my brain moved on to other things and I assumed everyone else’s had as well. It seems what I saw as a brilliant new arrangement was the brainchild of likethinking Oral Surgeon and entrepreneur Brian Gulley and it wasn’t until last week’s Airport Advisory Board meeting that I realized there was a problem with it. Although not airport related, the placement of the channel mooring posts was mentioned in the meeting and a few good-natured but slightly snide comments were made about Dr. Gulley, his other Island projects and his wealth. This piqued my interest and prompted me to research the issue a bit more.
Barges in 2014 await passage from the Lydia Ann Channel prior to installation of the mooring poles.
Mark Creighton tries out the new Kubota commercial mower at the airport. The mower will be used by volunteers to help keep the airport looking nice between City-funded mowings. The “Friends of Port Aransas” Facebook page mentions greed, corruption, environmental catastrophes and a suggestion that Dr. Gulley “should be forced to park the barges in front of his own house…” Wow. A logical mind with a penchant for action rather than lengthy bureaucratic discussion is certainly not appreciated in this century. Only in America are we ignorant of a problem until after there’s a solution which then becomes a problem. And let’s hope if there are Vulcan thinkers in the year 2950 they don’t happen to gain any wealth from the decisions they make; we’d probably exile them to a Klingon planet...
“I just mowed that grass for free.” -Forest Gump On to a lighter but similar subject. We’ve had plenty of rain lately and the weather has greatly exacerbated some annoyances we’ve always had on the Island airport: flooding, overgrowth and mosquitoes. The first issue simply cannot be helped; it’s often been said that if Mustang Beach airport were proposed today it would never exist because you really couldn’t pick a worse spot for an airport from an engineering or environmental standpoint. It’s a low-lying area and constructed in such a way only the runway can be truly elevated enough to drain in a downpour—which is good because that’s the most important part. Pretty much the entire remainder of the property was submerged after the late April storms until it could slowly drain through a couple of pipes into Island Moorings marina, a process which can’t really occur at all during anything but low tide.
Barge parking today
The other two problems are
closely related and one begets the other with only a little help from the first: the grass on the airport is thick and tall and the mosquitoes call it home by the millions. The City of Port A has a contract in place to mow the airport only a few times a year. I’ve often wondered why similarly sized airports such as Beeville, Sinton, Lockhart etc are kept perfectly and perpetually landscaped despite almost nonexistent air traffic while Port Aransas—attracting at least fifty planes per week-- allows the grass to reach knee-high before mowing. It’s understandable, however, when you consider the aforementioned municipalities don’t have a marina, a nature preserve, skate-park, a top-notch community pool or several miles of beach to attend to.
So a few airport regulars got together and came up with our own solution: a commercial grade mower manned by volunteer efforts. A trip to Gulf Tractor and promises of additional capital from my two partners resulted in the purchase of a Kubota “Z-723” sixty-inch-cut zero-turn beast. Not only have we completely mowed the airport in just a few hours, I must say— except for the necessity of a thorough dousing of Off before each session-- it has been a fun process. Anyone with enough lawn or land to even remotely justify the purchase of one of these machines should do so! (Kubota and John Deere both make residential versions as well…)
In true modern-American-bureaucracy fashion someone out there submitted a complaint to City Hall regarding our action and we promptly received a cease-and-desist notice until legal forms could be processed protecting the City from the liability of our efforts. A list of all mower-driving volunteers must be submitted and my entire staff at Skydive South Texas wants to be on it. Fortunately we pretty much finished the first round of mowing before government got in the way. The airport looks great and the skeeters are looking for a new place to live. Yell hello if you see us above the Island!
Two-year old Elizabeth Towns thinks flooded airports are FUN!
A 12
May 7, 2015
Island Moon
STATE
Legislative Update: Urban Affairs Committee By Todd Hunter, District 32
In this week’s article, I want to follow up and give an update on this important legislative session that is well underway. March 13th marked the legislative filing deadline to file bills for the 84th Legislative Session. With this deadline now past, I want to take this opportunity to discuss some of the bills that have been filed and have been up for hearings in the committees that I now serve on. It is important to note, however, that while the bill filing deadline has passed, this does not mean that the dialogue has been finalized. House and Senate committees are hearing many bills and the next stage of the legislative session is in progress. As your elected representative, I want to take this opportunity to feature some of the pieces of legislation that have been introduced and have come before committees that I serve on for this current legislative session. Below, I have listed some of the bills that were recently before the House Committee on Urban Affairs. • HB 60: Relating to firefighters and emergency medical technicians who bring certain claims for benefits or compensation. • HB 1243: Relating to the reinstatement of a firefighter or police officer following a decision rendered by the Fire Fighters’ and Police Officers’ Civil Service Commission or an independent third party hearing examiner. • HB 1428: Relating to the administration of housing funds set aside for persons with disabilities through the homebuyer assistance program. • HB 1792: Relating to regulation of residential short-term rental units; creating offenses and authorizing a fee. • HB 2162: Relating to municipal regulation of the use of alarm systems and camera systems; authorizing a municipal fee. • HB 2909: Relating to the regulation by a municipality or county of the rental or leasing of housing accommodations. • HB 2917: Relating to the authority of certain municipalities to impose term limits on the members of their governing bodies. • HB 3089: Relating to fire protection sprinkler systems in residential high-rise buildings; creating a criminal offense. • HB 3311: Relating to the scoring criteria
for an application for a low income housing tax credit. • HB 3393: Relating to underwriting standards for developments receiving an allocation of low income housing tax credits administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. • HB 3576: Relating to restrictions on the use, transfer, and sale of housing developments that have received certain financial assistance administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. I will plan to do updates on bills being considered. This will give some information on what potential laws are being reviewed. If you would like to follow the Texas House and learn more information on news, committees or other aspects of the legislative body, you can access its website at http://www.house. state.tx.us/. The site features live streaming from the House floor, committee hearings as well as access to a number of other resources. You can also follow the Texas Senate at http:// www.senate.state.tx.us/. The Texas Governor’s official website can be found at http://governor. state.tx.us/. For important information regarding transportation in the state, feel free to visit the Texas Department of Transportation’s website at http://www.txdot.gov/. The Texas General Land Office’s website can be found at http:// www.glo.texas.gov/, while the Texas Railroad Commission’s website is located at http://www. rrc.state.tx.us/. As a reminder, the 84th Texas Legislative Session is currently underway. As always, I want to hear your ideas and suggestion. Your ideas and information are important forms of feedback and I hope that you will not hesitate to contact my office. If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. As always, my offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns or comments (Capitol Office, 512463-0672; District Office, 361-949-4603). Rep. Hunter represents Nueces (Part) County. He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house. state.tx.us or at 512-463-0672.
Alamo Firearms of the Texas Frontier exhibit extended through May 31 Popular ‘Flintlock to Cartridge (1836 - 1876)’ exhibit extended thanks to generous donors The popular Firearms of the Texas Frontier exhibit has been extended through May 31st. Visitors have the opportunity to view firearms that helped settle the Texas frontier. This exciting exhibit contains historic firearms and artifacts on loan from the National Rifle Association and gracious Texas philanthropists such as Alamo Endowment Board member Red McCombs. In 1836, single-shot flintlock muskets, rifles, and pistols served as the primary firearms in the Battle of the Alamo. Just forty years later in 1876, Texans carried Winchester repeating rifles and six-guns for armament. “Firearms of the Texas Frontier” tells the fascinating story of the technological evolution of the firearms industry. Historians and weapons aficionados alike appreciate the skill and artistry of the nineteenth century firearms designers who created rifles and revolvers so advanced that they are still being produced today. In addition to the exhibit of historic firearms inside the Alamo Shrine, the Alamo staff and trained volunteers invite visitors to visit a hands-on exhibit of replicas of the historic firearms. This hands-on experience is offered
Bill to Prevent Local Fracking Bans Passes Senate
Cities and other municipal authorities would only have limited power to regulate oil and gas exploration, including fracking, under a bill approved by the Senate Monday. The socalled “Denton fracking bill” arose in response to the North Texas city’s ban on that method of oil and gas production. Controversial as it passed out of the house, Senate sponsor Senator Troy Fraser of Horseshoe Bay told colleagues the version that passed out of his Natural Resources and Economic Development Committee balances the concerns of cities and industry. “House Bill 40, I would represent, is a very carefully crafted compromise between the TML [Texas Municipal League] and the oil and gas industry,” he said. Fraser described the measure as an effort to avoid double regulation of the state’s most profitable industry. It would clarify that the state is the ultimate authority when setting policies related to oil and gas exploration. Under the Senate version of HB 40, cities would still exercise limited regulatory authority on above-ground oil and gas exploration activities, including
Also Monday the Senate passed UIL Sunset legislation, making some changes to the operation of body that oversees all interscholastic competition in the state. The bill by Granbury Senator Brian Birdwell would end the state’s steroid testing program for high school athletes, which has uncovered very few violations at a cost of $10 million over eight years. It would also tighten concussion reporting requirements, disclosing to the state how many coaches have and have not completed concussion training and ensure that schools have complied with a mandate for a concussion oversight team.
Simpson continued from A1 “We need to make improvements soon and not later,” Farenthold said Wednesday, “This is a safety issue.” The popular 51 year-old police chief was killed as he was riding his motorcycle southbound in front of the Beach Walk development about two miles south of the Cut Off Road intersection just after 5 p.m. Sunday. He was following a car driven by a woman from the town of Garden Ridge on the north side of San Antonio, when the car swerved to avoid an oncoming northbound pickup driven by a 16 year-old driver who investigators say may have been fatigued. Simpson, who was wearing a skull helmet, laid the heavy bike on its side and skid marks at the scene indicated it slid about fifteen feet before leaving the pavement. Investigators at the scene said they believe Simpson lost his helmet early in the crash and an autopsy conducted Wednesday found that head trauma was the cause of death. A statement from Port Aransas Police Chief Burrough’s office read in part: The truck crossed the center stripe and partially entered into the SB lane of the highway. A 2007 Harley Davidson motorcycle was SB on the highway. The operator of the motorcycle, Floyd Simpson, Chief of Police for the City of Corpus Christi, took evasive action by laying his motorcycle down. After laying the motorcycle down Chief Simpson was ejected from the motorcycle saddle and his helmet became dislodged. Chief Simpson struck his head on the highway and was seriously injured. Bystanders began CPR prior to the arrival of Port Aransas EMS. Port Aransas EMS immediately transported Chief Simpson to Corpus Christi Medical Center – Bay Area. Chief Simpson succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly after his arrival. An autopsy is scheduled for Monday May 04, 2015. There were no other injuries. The 16-year-old driver stayed at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. Investigators believe the driver was fatigued when he crossed the center stripe. Neither speed nor intoxication are believed to be factors at this time. The driver voluntarily surrendered his cell phone for analysis and voluntarily submitted a sample of his blood for analysis. Because the driver is a juvenile, his name will not be released.
on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and is located in Convento Courtyard on the north side of the Alamo Shrine in good weather, and inside the Alamo Shrine in inclement weather. The interactive exhibit offers visitors the opportunity to discuss the history of the firearms as well as to see them up close. It is a way for families to learn Texas history in an interesting and entertaining way. the location is the Alamo, 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio.
things like fire and emergency response, noise and light pollution or traffic concerns. Ordinances to that effect must be reasonable and can still be preempted by state or federal laws. An ordinance that has been in effect for five years alongside oil and gas production in the area is considered automatically reasonable if it is challenged in court, putting the burden of proof on the plaintiff in such cases. The bill will now head to the Governor’s desk where, if signed, it will become law.
But the accident has pointed out the urgency of the need for improvements to the roadway which is the site of frequent high impact collisions as cars in the two-lane, 60 mile-per hour speed zone are separated by only the centerline. As of this writing firm statistics on the number of wrecks and fatalities were not available. A traffic count on Sunday morning two weekends ago during the SandFest event in Port Aransas found that 1100 vehicles per hour were traveling southbound on the roadway toward Padre Island. In 2003 TxDot officials unveiled a plan to expand the roadway by adding two toll lanes on each side of the existing roadway, leaving the
two existing lanes in service without charge. However, the backlash to the toll from the public killed the plan, and in 2008 TxDot officials announced a second plan to turn the entire 18 miles into a four-lane. However, funding from Austin was not forthcoming.
The issue was dormant until Hunter became involved in mid-2014 announcing a $49 million plan for improvements along the road system between the JFK Causeway on Padre Island and the ferries in Port Aransas. The first phase of the plan was $1.3 million in work at the Commodores/SPID intersection which lengthened the turning lanes north of the intersection on SPID. The second phase is the work planned for 2016; the remainder of the plan is not currently funded.
But Farenthold said he spoke with TxDOT Executive Director Joe Weber about the needed improvements and suggested that it would be preferable to skip the current plan to add only passing lanes and move immediately to making the road the four-lane idea instead of simply adding passing lanes with the idea of later expanding to a full four-lanes. Farenthold said additional funding to immediately expand to four lanes is complicated by several factors.
“Since 2010 there are no longer any federal earmarks that can be directed at specific projects. Federal money goes to TxDot and they decide where to spend it,” he said.
He said TxDot uses traffic counts as the primary determining factor when funding new road projects and that the count on SH 361 is not high enough to raise it above potential projects in high growth areas in major cities across the state. Another potential obstacle is the raising of the Packery Channel Bridge as part of the improvements.
“To get the bridge high enough for large boats to go under it would mean building a mixmaster system of ramps that would have to start near the base of the JFK Bridge,” he said. “And that would be very expensive and would require the acquisition of a vastly expanded right of way.”
He said the current right of way around the bridge is wide enough to expand it to four lanes without raising the waterway clearance. He said he is already lobbying TxDot officials to study the situation and they have told him they will do so.
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May 7, 2015
Moon Crossword
This is the Daily Crossword Puzzle #3 for May 6, 2015 Across 1. Valerie's TV role 6. Lion's trusting companion 10. Part of IRA 14. Some come from fountains 15. Transport to Tel Aviv 16. Tribal tales 17. Imitators 18. Cornrows alternative 19. QB Tarkenton 20. Rembrandt's 1634 self portrait is one 23. Olympic skater Midori 24. ''Farewell!'' 25. Matted cotton sheet 28. Paid onetenth, say 31. Prelude or Sonata, e.g. 34. Part of T.A.E. 35. ''Do Ya'' rock grp. 36. Positive pole 38. Guarded items on Oscar night 42. Charles River sighting 43. Jack Haley's metal 44. Popeye's prop 45. Rubberstamped 46. Halley of Halley's Comet 49. Prime number? 50. ''Once ___ Enough'' 52. Trip starter? 54. Struck 60. Dandy's partner 61. ''Let's leave ___ that'' 62. Logging channel 63. Storybook beginning 64. Perturbed state 65. Ferocious 66. Sideshow performer 67. Patriot Nathan 68. Fix, as text
A 13
Island Moon
Free Printable Crossword Puzzle #3
Find the solution at http://onlinecrosswords.net/2191
Club News The Island Moon provides this space for Island organizations. If you are a member of a club and want to get the word out about your events and/or projects send them along and we will get them in. Be sure to include a brief description of what your organization does and a contact person for those interested in joining. Send the info to editor@islandmoon.com and we will include it. Or call us at 9497700. Padre Island Dog Owners Group (PI DOG). meets monthly for dog & owner activities, training and education. Sign up at padreislanddogpark.com. Free to join. For more information contact Lyn Edler (lyn.edler@gmail.com) or Bev Hoffman (bevhoffman@aol.com). On Saturday, May 9 we will meet for coffee & a dog walk in Bilish Park 9am. As always, bring your leash, poop bags, water for you and your dog, etc.
Down 1. Some VCRs 2. Arizona Indian 3. Designer Cassini 4. ''Shucks!'' 5. Height, to a model 6. Year or frog leader 7. With Romeo following, it's sporty 8. Grammy winner Carey 9. Strawberry or platinum, e.g. 10. Memorable Michael Caine role 11. Thanksgiving decoration 12. Rocky projection 13. Sawbuck
21. Fussed over (with ''on'') 22. Word with basin or wave 25. Deep voice 26. Smart follower 27. Viewers like you 29. Martinique, e.g. 30. Scout's master 32. Masterful 33. Visit again 37. ''I'll take care of it!'' 39. Kate Nelligan role 40. Diesel on film 41. Ran its course
47. Peaceloving 48. View from Catania 51. Streamlined 53. Faux pas 54. Utilize the good china 55. Cue ball target, sometimes 56. Major finale? 57. Falconry requirement 58. Muscat locale 59. Fuse, as metal 60. Sailing hazard
Crossword Solution on A17 Challenging
Sudoku
Knuckle-Cracker
Port Aransas Art Center. - Artists Opportunity-10thAnnual ArtFest in Port Aransas sponsored by the Port Aransas Art Center a 501 ( C) (3) Non-profit corp. and the Port Aransas Chamber of Commerce. Dates: May 16 & 17, 2015 from 10am5pm Saturday & 10am-4pm Sunday in Robert’s Point Park, Port Aransas, TX. 10X10 Booth Space Fee: $150 Your setup, no electric. Application deadline April 1st. Email artcenter@centurytel. net for an application form or go to www. portaransasartcenter.org and download one. The Festival Grounds are all viewed evenly, all Booth locations are good! Your Original Fine Art & Crafts, Artist must be present (any reproductions must be from your Original work).361-749-7334 Padre Island Uke Club – NOW Meets Every Other Week from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Island Joe’s Coffee and Gallery located at 13919 SPID right here on The Island. This is your chance to learn to play the uke. More than 40 people attend most meetings so you’ll want to arrive early to get a good seat. A $3 per person donations covers the workshop and instruction book and loaner ukulele (if you need one) RSVP online or call Barber Joe Sexton at 361 500-8955.or email at PadreIslandUkeClub@gmail.com. You’ll be playing your first song in just 20 minutes. Padre Island Yacht Club – http://piyc.org Padre Island Yacht Club (PIYC) is a private club whose membership enjoys boating: small boat cruises to area restaurants, extended cruises to Palacios, TX. and South Padre; as well as numerous social events. The Membership hosts nearly 100 social events every year, including Happy Hour every Friday Night from 6:00 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Brain-Buster
Mind-Numbing Frustration
PIYC is accepting new membership applications. Prospective members are invited to attend any Friday Night Happy Hour event. Contact Mr. Doug Seefeldt, Rear Commodore in charge of Memberships, dgjetmover@aol.com, to receive information about attending Happy Hour at PIYC. PIYC also maintains a marina with 26 boat slips, 14’ x 40’ with 30 amp service, and courtesy docks. Contact Mr. Barratt Sturtevant, PIYC Dock Master, bcsturtevant59@gmail.com, for any interest in the Marina. One must become a PIYC Member to rent a boat slip. KIWANIS Club of Padre Island. For more information contact Jerry Kaczmarek jer4angel@gmail.com. 734-751-1101. The Kiwanis meet at noon each Wednesday at MikelMays at Bob Hall Pier
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Rotary Club of Padre Island Corpus Christi – The Rotary Club of Padre Island is always looking for new members seeking to put “service above self”. If you are interested, please come join us and see what we are all about. The Padre Island Rotary usually meets every 1st thru 4th Tuesdays at noon at the Boathouse Bar and Grill (upstairs), 15241 Leeward Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418. On the fifth Tuesday of the month we will meet at 5:30pm for a Social Hour at The Barrel,
15201 SPID. For more information contact Jacqueline Carlson at 361-331-8618 or jcarlson@jmcarchitecture.com. Island Strategic Action Committee. Is a 14-member committee which meets at 5:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of each month at the Comfort Suites on Windward Drive. The committee’s purpose is to advise the Corpus Christi City Council on matters pertaining to The Island. All meetings are open to the public and the public is invited to address the committee during the public comment period. Padre Island Business Association. The association is a not-for-profit organization whose primary purpose is to advertise and promote Padre/Mustang Islands, Flour Bluff and Corpus Christi while advancing the interests of the business community. It is managed by a 9-member board of directors. A membership luncheon is held on the 2nd Thursday of each month at Holiday InnPadre Island starting at noon. Mixers are held on the 3rd Tuesday of the month. The association annually has two fundraising events – Taste of the Island in the fall and a Wine Tasting in the spring. P.I.E. Padre Island Enrichment Club, Inc, P.I.E. strives to enrich the lives of Padre Island women through social activities and community involvement. Full membership luncheon meetings are held the second Friday of each month at the Holiday Inn. Members may also participant in special interest clubs (bunco, bridge, spades, books, etc) that meet throughout the month. For more information about PIE, please contact Katherine Pierce, President, at 361 9600327 or Jaki Boyd 361 533-0854. Island United Political Action Committee: Maximize representation of Corpus Christi residents on Padre and Mustang Islands in area government by promoting and supporting, by the endorsement process, proactive and unified voting in non-partisan races and other issues and referendums put to public vote. Contact Persons: President – Linda A Walsh lawalshva@yahoo.com 361-445-7999. Meetings are open to the public. Parrot Heads of Port Aransas – Parrot Heads of Port Aransas is a not-forprofit organization whose purpose is to assist in community and environmental concerns and provide a variety of social activities for people who wish to volunteer. Founded in 2009 the club motto is “Partying With a Purpose.” To join go to portaransasparrotheads.com or call LuAnn Ferguson, 361 749-5141 or 817 291-7034. Fins Up! POA - Padre Isles Owners Association. The Association’s primary responsibility is to maintain the Common Areas, assess and collect the annual fees and provide information and assistance to property owners. .. Membership in PIPOA is automatic for anyone acquiring record legal title to any property within Padre Isles. Their office is located at 14015 Fortuna Bay Drive on The Island. (361) 949-7025, padreisles@pipoa.net. ARK – Animal Rehabilitation Keep. Located in Port Aransas the ARK is affiliate with the University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Center. They handle the rehabilitation of most species of wildlife in the area with an emphasis on marine animals. They care for about 1300 animals each year, including about 300 sea turtles and more than 100 species of birds. If you find an animal in peril they can help Tony Amos is the Director. 750 Channel View Dr. Port Aransas. 361 749-6793, 361 442-7638. afamos@mail.utexas.edu. Island’s PIPPs Chapter of Corpus Christi Red Hat Society. In 2004 a group of Island ladies got together under a Palapa and founded the Padre Island Palapa Pals (PIPPs). Our only rule is that there are no rules! We are all about fun and friendship. We meet once a month for lunch and various fun outings from cupcake making to CPR.
A 14
SMA Celebrates Cinco de Mayo
May 7, 2015
Island Moon
Food, Song, and History loans. Essentially, it is a story of David and Goliath or the underdog winning for once. Today Cinco de Mayo is more of a respect and celebration of Mexican culture; dance, song, food, crafts, and cultural identity. SMA celebrated those aspects of Mexican of Mexican culture. The SMA students were in for more surprises as the 8th grade Spanish class, donning colorful Mexican sombreros, prepared a short rendition of De Colores which they sang to students at both lunches. Students then lunched on an Preparing to sing De Colores to the SMA student body, the enchilada, rice, bean, and chip lunch followed by a tasty 8th grade Spanish class takes a few breaths and fresh apple empanada photo by Shannon Trial from the local Michoacan Bakery. By Brent Rourk
Senior Moments Special to The Island Moon
“Free Computers for Seniors” and “Ipads Help Improve the Lives of Seniors”
By Dotson Lewis
Special to the Island Moon Dotson’s Note: Thanks to Tracey Kelley, CNN Tech Writer for the “Free Computer for Seniors” article. As many of you know, in Corpus Christi we have many places where seniors have access to computers and there are many computer learning opportunities. If you have any questions regarding this, please Email me at either or both of these addresses: dlewis1@ stx.rr.com or dotson_lewis@hotmail. com or call me at 361-949-7681 or 530-7488475
Finding free computers for seniors isn’t that difficult If your current budget doesn’t allow for a technological investment, there are many resources available for free computers for seniors. However, this doesn’t mean you can always take the computers home.
Waking up the SMA students to a history lesson at 7:55 AM, Derik Boles and Sara Shaw (filling in for Madi Sheffield) gave a presentation over the PA about the history of Cinco de Mayo and what it has come to symbolize in contemporary Mexico and the United States. The captive audience learned that Cinco de Mayo is not a celebration of Mexican Independence Day but a celebration of Mexico winning a battle in a drawn out war against the French in 1862. It was at Puebla, Mexico that a vastly outnumbered and hastily assembled Mexican Army somehow defeated the well-armed French. Mexico went on to lose that war with the French who were trying to make Mexico pay back overdue
The Benefits of Computing
Singing before distributing fresh apple ampanadas photo by Shannon Trial
Gulf Shrimp Season Closing on Friday, May 15th The Gulf of Mexico commercial shrimp season for both Texas and federal waters will close 30 minutes after sunset on May 15 until a still-tobe determined time in July. The closing date is based on samples collected by the Coastal Fisheries Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department using trawl, bag seine and other information gathered from the shrimping industry. Data collected regarding TPWD bag seine catch rates of brown shrimp, mean lengths of shrimp in April 2015, percent of samples containing shrimp, and periods of maximum nocturnal ebb tidal flow indicate a May 15 closing date is appropriate. Typically, once the shrimp reach about 3-1/2 inches long, they begin their migration to the gulf. “The mean size of brown shrimp are larger than average this year so setting the closure date for May 15th is appropriate,” says TPWD’s Coastal Fisheries Science and Policy Branch Chief Mark Lingo.
“The closure is designed to allow escapement of shrimp out to the gulf where they can grow to a larger, more valuable size before they are vulnerable to harvest,” said Robin Riechers, TPWD Coastal Fisheries Division Director. “The goal is to provide shrimp of a size that are more valuable for the shrimping industry while providing proper management and protection for the shrimp.” The Texas closure applies to gulf waters from the coast out to nine nautical miles. The National Marine Fisheries Service has announced federal waters out to 200 nautical miles also will be closed to shrimping to conform to the Texas closure. While the statutory opening date for the gulf season is July 15, TPWD’s Coastal Fisheries Division will be sampling shrimp populations to determine the optimum opening date. The date of the re-opening of gulf waters will be based on data collected in June, but the closure may not be longer than 60 days.
Computing is a terrific way to stay up-todate on news and weather, keep in touch with family and friends through e-mail, and explore hobbies, senior travel opportunities, and other senior activities. A free messaging system such as Yahoo Messenger or AOL Instant Messenger enables grandparents to “chat” with the younger set and reduce long distance phone charges as well. Many seniors also use computers to write a family history, catalogue pictures, even trace the roots of the family tree. A computer loaded with specialized software is also a helpful asset for managing banking and expenses, tracking retirement investments, and preparing taxes.
The Local Library Most public libraries have a bank of computers, free for use by all library cardholders. If you’d like to do a little research, print off online coupons before shopping, or check in with an old school chum through e-mail, the library is a great option. These institutions will often restrict access to certain websites, and you won’t be able to download or install software, but you will be able to take care of basic computing needs. To protect your identity and other valuable information, do not access online financial accounts on a public computer, and always make sure to log off of e-mail accounts.
Educational Computing Centers If you’re participating in a lifelong learning program or another advanced education class, there are free computers for seniors to use for coursework, research, e-mail, and other fundamentals. You’ll find these systems in college libraries and computing centers. As with public libraries, certain restrictions may apply.
Senior Centers Community senior centers continue to expand the resources available to people over age 55. Many facilities not only offer the free use of computers, but also host a variety of computing classes to keep your skills sharp. Senior centers are also slightly more willing to consider installing a certain software program, such as a genealogy or messaging program, if they feel all members will benefit from its use.
Community Programs Some communities have assistance programs that offer free computers for seniors, especially those who are parents or guardians of schoolage children, or in-home schoolteachers. These programs are usually funded with grants, part of a federal excess redistribution program, or a local sponsor’s effort of outreach. One example is Computers for Learning, which redistributes federal and corporation surplus computers. Another is Share the Technology, which allows seniors with disabilities to request a computer from a pool of donated resources. Ask a librarian for assistance in finding local, county, and state agencies that may be a part of a computer donation or recycling program. Note that you may have to fall within a certain income bracket to be eligible.
Not Free, But Close
Photos by Jon Steele
One Bite and You’re Hooked! Prime Rib Wednesdays Mini Golf Great Food Family Fun
Most states in America have a liquidation center that warehouses overstock goods and used items from schools and agencies. Open to the public, many of these centers house computers, monitors, keyboards, and other
incidentals needed to build a system.
If you’re handy, and do have some money to put toward the effort, it’s common to purchase the necessary hardware components at these centers for under $100. Some centers also work in conjunction with the prison system to allow inmates to refurbish the computers and install software.
For more information, contact your state department of administration to find out where excess supplies are sent. You can also search online for a prison industry center.
Beware of Scams
If you’re already familiar with the Web, you’ve probably seen a lot of ads for free computers for seniors, such as laptops and home computers. Use extreme caution when investigating these offers. It’s true that advertising agencies and big corporations offer legitimate promotions. But, even those PR deals require you to complete certain tasks and provide a lot of information you’d rather not.
Additionally, your gift may be real, but there’s a catch. For example, you’re offered a free laptop as a premium for completing a certain number of surveys, but the laptop is simply the hardware - you still need to install software to make it operate. Consequently, that “free” laptop may cost $300 or more. If that seems like a good discount on a new computer, give it a try, but remember, caveat emptor - let the buyer beware.
Other offers ask for all your personal information before fully explaining the promotional gambit. Avoid these completely.
Two Of The Biggest Tech Companies In The World Have Joined Forces To Help Improve The Lives Of Seniors -- With Ipads.
Dotson’s Note: The following information was a joint news release by Apple & IBM… it appears that iPads and Tablets are here to stay, so I guess in the near future we will again be offering classes on iPads, Tablets and Smart Phones in the Del Mar College Senior Education Computer Program.
Recently, Apple and IBM announced they will deliver iPads with specially tailored apps for seniors. The apps connect elderly users with their families and serve three main functions: monitor their health, remind them of their medications and doctors’ appointments, and connect them to home care services.
The program will be piloted in Japan, in conjunction with Japan Post, a governmentowned life insurance, banking and postal service.
The iPad is already the top-selling tablet in Japan, according to Apple. Japan Post will deliver the special iPads to seniors and help them set up and learn to use the devices. In addition, they will also provide a monthly check-in service for an additional fee.
“Together the three of us and our teams will dramatically improve the lives of millions of people, and that at the end of the day is what it’s all about,” Apple CEO Cook said. “Where Japan may be first, many others will follow.”
The new apps, built and powered by IBM, use the machine-learning computer system “Watson” to learn and adapt to the ways elderly citizens communicate and use the app.
The apps have large buttons that are easy to read, and they have adjustable settings to help vision- and hearing-impaired users navigate the Web and other iPad apps. IBM’s apps are built on top of Apple’s existing accessibility features -- large text, dictation, and Siri, which will read emails and websites.
Everything about Apple, Cook said, is about “helping people that are marginalized and empower them to do what everyone else can do.”
The program for seniors is an extension of IBM and Apple’s year-old partnership to create enterprise-level iPad apps for corporations. The two companies have already built 22 apps for 11 industries.
That partnership, IBM CEO Ginni Rometty said, was about “re-imagining work.” This announcement is about “re-imagining life.”
Japan Post CEO Taizo Nishimuro said he hopes to deliver the special iPads to as many as 5 million families within the next five years. By 2050, 21% of the world’s population will be over the age of 65, but the problem is most “acute” in Japan, where nearly 40% of the population will be seniors.
Dotson’s Other Note: We will keep all of you Moon Monkeys posted on computer “stuff”, including classes for Seniors, which are almost free (at this time they are free for veterans & their spouses). If you have comments and/or questions, please call or Email. Phone: 361949-768; Email: dlewis1@stx.rr.com
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May 7, 2015
A 15
Island Moon
Art Fiesta Weekend May 15-17 The Weekend of May 15-17 will be a big one for Island art lovers as the Port Aransas Art Center hosts its Art Fiesta Weekend. Here are the highlights. 8th Annual Fiesta de Mayo-Dinner/Auctions/ Entertainment-May 15th held at the Civic Center, 710 Ave. A in Port Aransas starting at 6:00pm. This year’s Dinner, Catered by La Barataria. Live Quick Draw-(artists painting right there while you watch them, then we auction off their art)+ much more in Live/Silent Auctions& Raffles. Live Music & Open Bar. Location: Port Aransas Civic Center Reserved tables for 8 or Individual Tickets available, RSVP Deadline is May 1st. 10th Annual Artfest May 16 & 17.Artists with Original Fine Art & Fine Crafts for sale, Food & Music.10am-5 Saturday 10am-4pm Sunday. Location: Robert’s Point Park near the water & the Ferry Landing. Artists this year will offer the following for sale: Original Paintings in Oil, Acrylic, Watercolor, + Ink drawings & Prints made from originals and handmade note cards. Decorative & functional Pottery. Photography will be offered –framed or unframed on paper, canvas & Note Cards. Sports bags made from Sails, Shell art, ocean theme painted items plus Dichroic Glass wall art, bowls, trays + sculpture & jewelry. Other types of Jewelry offered will include natural stones, wire sculpture, hand carved antler designs, beaded jewelry & crosses + Native American beadwork & original designs in sterling silver and copper. Wood carvings & crosses, hand painted pillows & Hand printed linocuts. These are just some of the wonderful items that will be for sale. There will also be food & beverages available & Local Musicians will be there for your listening pleasure as you stroll the artist booths.
The 32nd ANNUAL Songwriter’s Showcase May 17th 4 pm till “darkthirty”. Bring a picnic basket/cooler/blankets or lawn chairs and listen to even more wonderful Original music. Preecher Williams & Woodie Lawson are back to organize, last years was fantastic!! The Showcase is also held outdoors in Robert’s Point Park. The venue is spectacular, you can watch & listen to the musicians as the dolphins jump& ships go by. This year’s Showcase is FREE /No Gate fee & is Dedicated to Dan Winship. Musician’s List as of 4/15 subject to change-& Times are approximate 1. (4:00) Simon Jay 2. (4:20) James Derkits
Kemps Ridley Nesting Season in Full Swing By Donna J. Shaver, Ph.D. Division of Sea Turtle Science and Recovery National Park Service Padre Island National Seashore e-mail: Donna_Shaver@nps.gov Seven Kemp’s ridley nest were found on the Texas coast Monday, including 1 on Bolivar Peninsula, 1 on Bryan Beach, 1 on North Padre Island north of Padre Island National Seashore, 3 at Padre Island National Seashore, and 1 on South Padre Island.
Kemp’s Ridley Turtle Count So far this year, 17 nests have been confirmed on the Texas coast including (north to south in state):
3. (4:40) Mark Wilks & Band
2 Bolivar Peninsula
4. (5:00) Perry Wing & Tim Miler
0 Galveston Island
5. (5:20) Dan Brodhag
0 Brazoria County, N. of Surfside
6. (5:40) Carol Elliott
0 Surfside Beach
7. (6:00) Todd Dorn
0 Quintana Beach
8. (6:20) Ty Dietz & Tony Saracene
1 Bryan Beach
9. (6:40) L.Leon Sands
0 Brazoria County, N. of Sargent Beach
10. (7:00) Ruben Limas
0 Sargent Beach
11. (7:20) Garrett & David
0 Matagorda Peninsula
12. (7:40) Guy Le Roux
0 Matagorda Island
13. (8:00) Mark Borde
0 San Jose Island
14. (8:20) Billy Snipes
0 Mustang Island
15. (8:40) Hamp Brockman & Janet Drew 16. (9:00) Tyler McCumber
8 North Padre Island, including 7 at Padre Island National Seashore
17. (9:20) Woodie Ray Lawson & Band
6 South Padre Island
Reach the Art Center at 361-749-7334 or artcenter@centurytel.net or www. portaransasartcenter.org
So far this year, 16 Kemp’s ridley nests have been found in Texas, including: 2 on Bolivar Peninsula, 1 on Bryan Beach, 1 on North Padre Island north of Padre Island National Seashore, 6 at Padre Island National Seashore, and 6 on South Padre Island.
The Kemp’s ridley nesting season peaks in May and June, and could extend through midJuly. Hatchling releases will begin at Padre Island National Seashore will begin when the first eggs found this year hatch, in mid-June.
0 Boca Chica Beach Satellite transmitters were deployed on the 3 Kemp’s ridley turtles that nested at Padre Island National Seashore and the turtles were released. Seven more transmitters will be deployed on nesting females in the coming weeks. This research is part of the long-term (since 1997) tracking effort in cooperation with partners in Mexico.
Fiddler on the Roof, J.R. Coming to PACT in May The Port Aransas Independent School District in a partnership with the Port Aransas Community Theater will present “Fiddler on the Roof, jr,” Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights May 7-9 at 7:00pm and Sunday May 10 at 2:30 pm. The classic American musical, with book by Joseph Stein, music by Jerry Bock and lyrics by Sheldon Harnick, is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). “‘Fiddler on the Roof, jr’ is a special adaptation of the classic Broadway musical, which tackles the universal theme of tradition in ways that reach across barriers of race, class, nationality, and religion,” the MTI website explains. A shortened script, “Fiddler on the Roof, jr” retains the famous Broadway storyline of a poor dairyman, Tevye, in pre-revolutionary Russia. Tevye’s goal is to protect his daughters and provide them with a sense of tradition in the face of a rapidly changing world. The production includes many of the show’s most recognizable musical numbers including: “Tradition,” “If I Were A Rich Man,” and “Sunrise, Sunset.” Ken Yarbrough is directing Fiddler on the Roof, Jr and the musical director is HG Olsen Elementary School music and art teacher, Gay
de Montel. The cast and crew features more than 25 HG Olsen elementary and Brundrett Middle School students including:
Thomas Ramsden, Taylor Alcorn, Zoey Montgomery, Molly Moats, Hannah Templeton, Calligraphy Lauseng, Victoria D’Herde, Casey Feil, Jerry Templeton, Pablito Snow, Colton Huckabay, Jadyn Clark, Casey McGrady, Dylan Linder, Kris Stevenson, Ben Villasana, Hannah Ramsden, Elish Brennan, Olivia Adams, Samantha Ogle, Ryan Ogle and Luke Merritt. Technical director is Meghan Tipps and Richard Adams is assistant tech director. Brianna D’Herde is stage manager and Ashby Snow is adding her artistic talents to the completion of the set.
Of course without parents and volunteers there would wouldn’t be a production. Rick and Claire Adams, Cindy Moats, Danna Alcorn, Mandie D’Herde, Dave and Peg Srader, Mike and Darlene Secich are just a few of those that are helping to make this production of Fiddler on the Roof, Jr so successful! Admission is $10 for adults 12 and over and $5.00 for students under 12. Tickets can be purchased online at www.brownpapertickets. com or at the Port Aransas Business Center located at 1023 State Highway 361 in Port Aransas.
Port A Happenings… Sunset Sounds Concert - Friday, May 8, 7 pm – Edge & Dugan [Texas country, classic country, classic rock and more]. It features Russell Edge and Jim Dugan singing and playing acoustic guitars. Bring a chair, friends, food, and drink and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment as the sun sets over the Corpus Christi Ship Channel. Series runs monthly April through October at Patsy Jones Amphitheater in Roberts Point Park. FREE!
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ConvenienT Flour BluFF loCaTion 9708 S.P.I.D., Suite A-101 s C orPus C hrisTi (361) 937-5513 s T oll F ree 1-877-888-1369 Licensed by the Supreme Court of Texas Former President of the Corpus Christi Family Law Association (1999-2000) Selected as a Texas “Super Lawyer” in November 2003, October 2004 and October 2005 Issues of Texas Monthly
Summer Camps: This summer solution for parents is filling fast, so REGISTER NOW. Four sessions of 2-week camps, 8 am-5:30 pm, Monday through Friday. $125 for each session, $50 deposit for each session to hold spot. [to be applied toward last session fee]. Each session must be paid in full by the Monday before the next session starts. Financial aid available. Call Ken at 361-749-4158. **ALL CAMPS are available for Grades K-5** Birding on the Boardwalk – Guided birding tour for anyone, novice to expert. Every Wednesday at 9 am at Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center at end of Ross Ave, with local guide Nan Dietert FREE! Yoga on The Beach – Nancy Myers will conduct a session Saturday, May 9, starting at 8 am, next to Horace Caldwell Pier at end of Beach St. This event is held the 2nd Saturday of each month. Be on time, as leader will take class to an inside location if. FREE! Port Aransas Community Pool: Open on Sundays starting May 10 and until 3pm Tuesday-Thursday. Moms Swim Free for Mother’s Day when accompanied by a child Sunday, May 10, 1-6 pm Open Swim: Tue-Thu: 1-3pm, Fri-Sun: 1-5pm. Lap Swim/Exercise: Tue-Thu: 8am3pm, Fri: 8am-5pm; Sat & Sun: Noon-5pm. Water Exercise: Tue-Fri: 12 noon. Deep Water Aerobics: Wed & Fri: 11am, involves aerobic exercising with belts to keep you afloat in the deep end of pool. Total Body Aquacize: Tue & Thu: 10:30am & Sat: noon, with AAAI Water Aerobics instructor Sally Jo Bartlett - total body workout to strengthen all major muscle groups. Mom & Tot Time: Tue – Fri: 10:30-11:30am. Private, Semi-Private and Adult Swim Lessons available on request at pool office, 749-2416. Lifeguard Class: Training [4-day] scheduled for Saturday & Sunday, May 30 & 31 and June 6 & 7, 9am-5pm. Must be 15 or older to take
class. Lifeguard training includes American Red Cross certification in lifeguarding, first aid, CPR, AED, and blood borne Pathogen training. Students must attend all classes. Cost $150 for entire training. If Port Aransas applicant will fill out an application to work for the City of Port Aransas Parks and Recreation Department, agree to a background check, be able to pass city drug test, physical, pass the class and work 1 month, there will be no charge for the training. Register at www.aquatictraining.net. Training will be held at the Port Aransas Community Pool [700 Clark Pkwy, off Ross Avenue] and at the Girl Scout hut inside the Port Aransas Parks and Recreation building, 739 W. Ave. A.
Community Park Pool hiring lifeguards now! Application online at www. cityofportaransas.org or call 749-4158. Beach lifeguards also being hired for summer! Must be Red cross Lifeguard certified and 15 (with parental consent) or older for pool; 18 or older for beach. (See Lifeguard class above)
Island Fishing Workshop – Thursday, May 21, at 1:30pm. Bill Hoffman, with 40 years of offshore, bay and surf experience will conduct the workshop. Contact Pam at 749-4158 or pamg@cityofportaransas.org for place and topic. He will share his knowledge as the series continues on the 3rd Thursday of each month. FREE!
Beach Walk – Join guide Shirley Fischer on Port A’s beaches to hunt for shells and other treasures! [4th Friday of month] Meet on Friday, May 22, at 9 am under purple pennant near Horace Caldwell Pier at end of Beach St. FREE! Ave. A, on corner of Ave. A and Cut Off Road.
Water Canning Basics: At the Girl Scout hut inside Parks & Rec building, 739 W. Ave A, Saturday, May 23, 12:30-5pm. $35, must preregister with Pam at 749-4158 or pamg@ cityofportaransas.org. Learn how to safely do your own Water Bath Canning with Erin Denny from Auntie Handy’s Harvest. She will demonstrate the basics of creating & preserving your own jam & mustard treats. Take home goodies, step-by-step guides, confidence to DIY & safely tested recipes. This hands-on class will teach you ‘Do’s & Don’ts Tips, equipment types, flexible recipes including low & no sugar and no pectin. You will take home jars from the recipes covered in class, minimum of three jars.
A 16
May 7, 2015
Island Moon
Padre Island Real Estate Activity April 1-April 30 Waterfront Homes Sold 14306 Bluefish 13945 Man O War 13811 Seahorse 13849 Gunwale 5329 Tortuga 15830 Cuttysark 15238 Main Royal 15226 Cartagena 15841 Almeria 14234 San Felipe 15201 Aquarius 15373 Caravel 5205 Cartagena 14106 Palo Seco 15813 El Soccorro Loop Average Sales Price $399,793 83 Waterfront homes listed from $298,000-$1,500,000
Interior Lot Homes Sold 15206 Barataria 14209 Sea Pines 13929 Jacktar 16110 Pionciana 15878 El Soccorro 14041 Coquina Bay 15814 Almeria 15265 Cartagena 14010 Coquina Bay 14906 Dasmarinas 14926 Dasmarinas Average Sales Price $254,818 36 Interior Homes Listed from $154,900-$499,999
Waterfront Condominiums/ Townhomes Sold 15302 Bonasse #103 15406 Gun Cay #804 Averge Sales Price $182,250 84 Listed From $50,000-$539,500
Interior Condominium/Townhomes 15438 Seamount Cay 15209 Padre Island Dr. #702 14721 Whitecap #184 14721 Whitecap #182 15209 S. Padre Island Dr. #407 15006 Aruba D 15006 Aruba A 15212 Beach Way Average Sales Price $168,525 51 Listed From $92,500-$385,000
Waterfront Lot Lot 19 Peseta 45 Lots Listed From $129,900$1,200,000
Interior Lots Sold Lot 38 Whitecap LOT 39 Whitecap Lot 4 Ketch033 Lot 25Finistere Lot 19 Forestay Lot 7 Eaglesnest Lot 4 Palo Seco Lot 8 Chesapeake Lot 1 Ambrosia Average Sales Price $41,988 114 Lots Listed From $37,000-$125,000
Commerical Lots 16 Lots Listed From $113,900$4,557,465
SMA 8th Grade Students Ready to Graduate 4 Quick Years Prepares Them for High School By Brent Rourk Slowly walking down the SMA hallways 4 years ago as visiting 4th graders, they peeked into classrooms in awe of the big kids and the middle school atmosphere. Everybody looked so tall and grown up to the curious visitors. In a few short months, after their summer respite, they would begin their tenure at SMA.
8TH Grade Almost Over They walk the hallways now, knowing that their time at SMA is dwindling to weeks before they become middle school graduates and then high school students. The Logan Lang Sara Shaw Abbigail Brummett Derik Boles crop this year numbers 33 students, Tristan Cardon and Richard de la Rosa sharing smiles and in the comfortable confines of and advice before they leave SMA SMA the students have come to photo by Brent Rourk know each other well. Some are the best of friends, sharing classes, and given me many experiences I couldn’t have lunches, and weekend past times. had at another school.” SMA Director Barbara Beeler reflected about this years’ 8th grade class and commented, “We are proud of our 8th graders and know that they are well prepared for the high school experience at Flour Bluff. Many of them have been with us since kindergarten and we say good bye with a sense of pride and a touch of emotion.”
The Students Share Their Thoughts Richard de la Rosa, Derik Boles, Sara Shaw, Logan Lang, Tristan Cardon, and Abbigail Brummett, after many successful years in the Island Foundation Schools, are preparing to graduate from SMA and begin high school at Flour Bluff. Smiling as they discussed their high school years around the corner, they reflected about their middle school years and even offered advice to next year’s 5th and 8th graders. In terms of taking their talents to high school, there was unanimous excitement and anticipation. Cardon stated, “I am looking forward to joining a new school with many more new students to meet and experiences to come.” Unanimously, the other 8th graders agreed with Cardon, as they eagerly anticipate their first day of high school.
More and Different Activities at the High School Level Contemplating their high school years, the 8th graders affirmed that they would definitely participate in sports and activities at flour Bluff. Lang claimed, “Sports (volleyball) and maybe clubs.” Shaw stated, “I plan on playing basketball and volleyball at Flour Bluff.” Also looking at athletic opportunities, Boles chimed, “I plan to be part of the track team and maybe the soccer team.” Cardon, planning to take AP classes, stated, “I plan to join challenging science and mathematics electives and to attempt to join track.”
Preparation at SMA The Island Foundation Schools are known for their academic excellence and rigor. As a college preparatory middle school, SMA takes pride in preparing students for rigorous high schools options. Several SMA students plan to capitalize on the options at Flour Bluff High School. Of the six students cited here, three plan to take AP program route and two of them plan to excel in the UP program at Flour Bluff. Both are excellent options and will no doubt challenge the incoming freshman class. Students cheerfully shared their thoughts about how SMA prepared them for their high school experience. De la Rosa said, “SMA has prepared me by being more strict and getting use to homework.” Boles also identified how SMA prepared him for the next level when he commented, “I believe it has prepared me for the large work load and time management.” Reflecting on her experience at SMA, Lang stated, “It has prepared me to turn in my work on time and complete.” “They have prepared me by making me turn in my work and make it good”, added Brummett.
Maturing Students The 8th graders are very different than they were as curious 4th graders walking the halls of SMA. Brummett claimed, “I have become more responsible and organized.” Cardon claimed, “SMA has matured me a lot and exposed me to many of my current friends
Boles has not only grown in stature, but also grown academically and emotionally. “I have learned to study and prepare for exams” he stated. Indulging in a moment of emotion, the 8th graders shared what they would miss most about SMA. They confided that they would miss the teachers, the smaller classes, and their friends. Their teachers will likewise miss them. Though not often shared, it is well known that the teachers as well as the students have conflicting emotions about graduating students. How wonderful it is to see them grow, learn, mature, and begin to chart their path with a little more independence. It is an honor to be a part of that process as a caring teacher and all of the SMA staff are completely supportive and pleased for the graduates. However, it is a bit of a sad time too because many teacher will miss many students after working with them so closely for years.
Advice Two of my favorite quotes about advice are, ‘The best way to succeed in life is to act on the advice we give to others.’ and ‘The best advice is this: Don’t take advice and don’t give advice’ ~ Authors Unknown. This year’s 8th grade class, not adept at being shy, was immediately prepared to offer advice to incoming 5th graders and next year’s 8th graders. To the incoming 5th graders our graduates freely offered valuable advice. Lang’s was short and sweet, “Do your work!”, That advice was echoed by Brummett who understands the need to do the work. Cardon thoughtfully proposed, “That the incoming 5th graders be prepared for some challenging classes and a load of work Just remember that it is all to aid you in your future life.” De la Rosa looked at choices as a nexus for 5th grade success as he stated, “Make smart choices and pick a group of friends that won’t get you in trouble.” After having survived a year of rigorous 8th grade classes, including several high school credit classes, the 8th grade students were swift to share their experiences with the incoming 8th grade class. De la Rosa bluntly chimed, “Don’t screw up your last year of middle school.” Cardon again offered a helpful bit of advice as he claimed, “The 8th grade has the most work with the most fun. As long as you do it all you will succeed.” Both Boles and Brummett stated that the incoming 8th grade class needs to do all of their work, make sure it is complete, and submit it on time. They understood that late work was not acceptable, something that will not be tolerated in most high schools.
Drought continued from A1 the following notice for the Corpus Christi Hydrologic Service Area (HAS), which it covers.
“With El-Nino in full swing, rainfall continued to be above normal over South Texas during April. Most areas saw more than 200 percent of their normal rainfall for April including areas which were in moderate drought or abnormally dry at the end of March. Most of the eastern 2/3 of the Hydrologic Service Area (HSA) received between 5 to 8 inches of rain with isolated amounts in excess of 10 inches. During the past 180 days, essentially all of South Texas has received at least 125 percent of their normal rainfall, resulting in above normal soil moisture conditions. As a result, drought conditions ended over ALL of South Texas. Unfortunately, some reservoir and lake levels (especially Choke Canyon Dam) are still very low.”
“The Drought Monitor product valid for April 28 2015 shows all of the HSA drought-free. Drought conditions have retreated all the way to the Texas Hill Country and Concho Valley. All of Southeast Texas and Deep South Texas are drought-free as well.
With drought conditions ending over South Texas, and with the prospects of El-Nino likely continuing through the upcoming summer (and possibly through the end of 2015), this will be the last Drought Information Statement for South Texas until at least moderate drought conditions return to a notable portion of the HSA.”
The combined capacity at Lake Corpus Christi and Choke Canyon Dam on April 30 was at 39.4 percent, which was 5.2 percentage points higher than the beginning of April. Although Lake Corpus Christi is nearly 75% full, Choke Canyon Dam is only at 26.3% capacity. With the combined capacity between 30% and 40%, Stage 2 water restrictions remain for Corpus Christi residents. No water restrictions are in effect for the City of Victoria or the City of Laredo.
Agricultural Impacts
Each week, the Climate Prediction Center analyzes the soil moisture anomaly and the percent of available soil moisture as compared to normal. As of April 30, above normal moisture anomalies and percentiles were observed over all of South Texas, thanks to the well above normal rainfall during March and April. Crop Moisture Indices were now wet over the HSA.
Fire Danger Impacts
Fig. 6 shows the burn bans valid as of April 30. These burn bans are established by county officials, and updated regularly on the burn ban website. No burn bans were in effect over South Texas as of April 30.
Outlooks An El-Nino Advisory remains in effect for the Equatorial Pacific Ocean, since sea surface temperatures (SST) remain above normal over the entire region.
CPC forecasts a 70% chance that El-Nino conditions will continue through the summer of 2015, and a better than 60% chance that ElNino will continue into the fall of 2015. ElNino conditions in the summer would tend to lower the chance for organized tropical systems in the Atlantic Basin, due to stronger upper level winds. However, this does not necessarily mean that rainfall will be below during the hurricane season.
Thee May 2015 temperature and rainfall outlooks issued by CPC show a greater likelihood for above normal rainfall and below normal temperatures for the month.
Similarly, the CPC seasonal outlooks for May 2015 through July 2015 show a greater likelihood for above normal rainfall (Fig. 8) and below normal temperatures.
With above normal rainfall expected over South Texas through the first part of summer, the Seasonal Drought Outlook Product (Fig. 10) shows no drought development over South Texas through the end of July.
Adios High school will offer these students additional classes, athletics, and activities and 4 more years to prepare for adulthood, college, trade schools, and careers. It is often quoted that ‘the high school years are the best years of our lives’. Perhaps we should follow this class in four years to see if that adage applied to them.
Moon Photographer Jeff Dolan
Congratulations and the best of luck to the outgoing SMA 8th graders, especially as you begin to walk down the halls of Flour Bluff High School. You rock! It has been an honor to be your teacher and to frequently write about your successes in this newspaper. Nice job staff! Thank you parents! Have a great summer!
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The Original Pizza of Padre Island The Only Stone Baked Pizza on the Island The Island's oldest full-service restaurant
Happy Hour M-F 4-6 pm 2.00 dom 3.00 import 3.00 glass wine 7.00 1/2 carafes 14.00 carafes of wine.
Hours: Mon- Thurs 11 AM - 9:30 PM Fri - Sat 11 AM - 10 PM Sun 5-9:30 PM 15370 SPID (Just south of Whitecap) 949-7737 islanditalian.com
Photos by Miles Merwin
Moon Classifieds
May 7, 2015
A 17
Island Moon
Here’s how to place a Classified Ad
Services
Services Pool Cleaning
BBQ Grill Cleaning
Call Arlene direct at 834-1382 to place your ad or email at our NEW EMAIL ADDRESS:
moonclassad@twc.com
Costs start at $10 for 25 words, 20 cents a word after that. Your ad can be centered for a small additional charge. Ads with payment can be left at our office at 15201 SPID Ste 250 If office is closed, payment and ad can be slipped thru the door slot.
Deadline for paid classified ads is no later than NOON on Tuesday PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE PUBLICATION
Coastal Bend Grill Cleaning
The cleaning products we use are : Green & Clean Effective ~ Efficient ~ Biodegradable ~ EcoFriendly ~ Nontoxic ~ Caustic Soda Free Odorless
361-99-GRILL (994-7455) 361-813-1929 (CELL) CoastalBendGrillCleaning.com
Computer Service
Hear Ye! Hear Ye!
CompuIntegration Offering Technology With Total SolutionsSM
WE HAVE A NEW E-MAIL ADDRESS: moonclassad@twc.com Legal & Business Notices Legal & Business Notices
Do you need to place a legal or business notice? You’ll find that our rates for running your notice cost less than many other publication in Nueces County. Call Arlene @ 361-834-1382
VIRUS REMOVAL, UPGRADES, NETWORKING
Software/Hardware Service & Repair Computer Setup & Troubleshooting Computer Sales, Private Tutoring, Wireless
Scott’s Computer Repair Spyware and Virus Removal PC/Mac Repair Networking
Fast 24 Hour Turn-Around Home or Business Free Pick Up and Delivery Seniors & Military or Cash Save 20%
Call 949-4604 or 425-5627 House Cleaning Services Laura Lee’s Cleaning Services
HELP WANTED PALMILLA BEACH GOLF CLUB Golf Course Maintenance Starter Marshall Servers
Landscape Design Landscaping Decks, Docks, Shade Structures Boat Lifts Concrete Drives & Patios Yard Maintenance – No Contracts First Time Cleanups
Sami Wilson – 361-949-2691
IslandLandscapingDecksAndDocks.com
ISLAND CREATIONS LANDSCAPING
Creative Grass & Rock Yards Lot and Yard Maintenance Tree Trimming
Call 361-960-0327
Credit Cards Accepted Air Line Miles Accepted
Power Washing
Josette’s Ship Shape Cleaning Service
ISLANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE We power wash
Housekeepinng, Laundry and Ironing Vacation Rentals Move In/Move Out Elderly Care
361-850-0204
Pest & Lawn Maintenance
Sponsored by GCCM, SWT, ELCA.
Contact Rev. Tom Dietzel at lifetogethermin@aol.com, or 210-363-3538 or 361-445-1029 ISLAND PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH SUNDAY SERVICES In Church Sanctuary 10 AM 14030 Fortuna Bay Drive & Gypsy 361-949-8770
361-949-2773 Island Landscaping Decks & Docks
361-563-4096
Contact agreen@troongolf.com Or call 361-749-4653 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED As docents at Port Aransas Museum Contact: www.docentspapha@yahoo.com
LUTHERAN TABLE TALK Thursday Afternoons On the island JB's German Bakery, 15137 SPID
* Lawn Maintenance * Power Washing * Palm Trimming * Fall Cutback * Lot Mowing * Decks * Installation FREE ESTIMATES
ABC Home & Commercial Services
For all your pest control services including fleas and mosquitoes. We do termite inspections and can handle your rodent problems. ABC is now doing lawn maintenance, mowing and all of your A/C service. Jerry Lawley 361-815-7232 jlawley@goanteater.com
Houses, Driveways, Fences, Decks & Sidewalks Call us now to schedule an estimate
Home Additions New Construction Exterior Improvements
Open 9-noon on Saturdays Best prices in So. Texas!
Ave. E @Trojan St. In Port Aransas
DIANA HOMES, INC.
Additions – New Construction – Remodeling From small jobs to extreme makeovers Member of the BBB Member of PIBA www.dianahomesinc.com dianahomesinc@gmail.com
Call 949-2092 or 442-3516
361-225-2367
Has been wired for 3, 1000 watt lights for night fishing, (included) Docked in water. Hasn’t been run in 2 years. Trailer is rusted. $2300.00
Flat Screen TV
Home Maintenance/Repair 30 years+ experience Doors – Windows – Decks – Cabinets Sheetrock – Tape and Float
For Sale Magnavox 32 inch Flat Screen LCD TV Lightly used in RV – Best Offer On the Island Cell 936-328-3941
Re-Parrot
For Sale/Lease/Rentals
ISLAND NATIVE MASTER CARPENTER
Real Estate
361-815-7900
Home maintenance repair & light remodeling Free Estimates Located on “The Island”
G. Michael Wall 361-779-6621 NEED A CARPENTER?
First class work at low rates Storm Shutters, Cabinets, Framework, Sheetrock, Stucco, and much more!
Call 361-960-0327 ISLAND CREATIONS CONCRETE
Professionally installed concrete driveways, sidewalks and patios Decorative Stamping & Staining
Call 361-960-0327 Moore Home Remodeling & Repair
Specializing in: Indoor/Outdoor Electrical, Remodeling, Repairs, Kitchen & Bath, Plumbing, Flooring, Windows, Roofing Please call:
361-633-5878 Or email :
moorehomeremodeling5@gmail.com
Pet Adoptions
IZZY is a sweet boy looking for a forever home
A Chihuahua/Dachshund mix, 3 years old, weighing 12 lbs. A great size for an apartment and a great lap buddy. Just wants to be loved and in return will love you with all his heart. Izzy is neutered, up to date on shots and microchipped. Fee is $50. If interested please submit your application online at ccpaac.org/adoption-application/ and if approved arrangements will be made for you to meet him. Please text :
361-438-3232
For more information
Beach Club – For Sale By Owner 1 Bed – second floor 2 water views – priced to sell. Leave message 830-626-9797 CONDO 1/1, Utilities Paid Furnished, queen bed and sofa, Pool, fitness room, laundry in unit. Long/short term considered
email: bbsetira@yahoo.com
Aqua Pressure Cleaning Since 1996
Insured for your protection
Boat
PONTOON BOAT 1999 Bennington, 22 Ft. With a 2000 90 Hp Mercury 2 Stroke Motor
Call: Joyce @ 774-0721
361-949-2773
Commercial – Residential Single Level to Hi-Rise Buildings & Homes Sidewalks & Patios Parking Lots Tile Roofs/Stucco Walls New Construction Mildew Removal Deck Cleaning/Sealing Call for free estimate & demo WWW.AQUAPCLEAN.COM
Lightly Used Items
Trinity-By-The-Sea Episcopal Church 2nd Time Around (thrift) Shop
We’ll fix it right – For a song!
Weekly, biweekly, move in/move outs Pet & House Sitting – Bonded On the Island since 2000
Full Time and Part Time positions available
Church Meeting Island Church Service
Islandscape Maintenance
949-2707 PC & MAC Home & Business On-Site Service 14941 S. P. I. D. (Island)
for more information
Help Wanted
All King Services
Professional Lawncare For Commercial & Residential Initial Clean-Up – Trimming/Pruning Rock Installation Weekly/ Monthly Property Maintenance Palm Tree Trimming Free Quotes Greg Phelps 361-461-9021 Island Owned & Island Resident
(361)
The Island Moon Weekly
The Island Newspaper since 1996
Hanley's Pool Cleaning Service North Padre Island 361-443-6972 Yard Care
Home Building & Maintenance
For Sale by Owner 15442 Cuttysark St. 3-2-2 1,744 Sq. Ft. One story brick canal home on 75’x120’ lot with boat lift. 16’x24’ upper deck, two fishing lights, cathedral ceilings, large master, fireplace, many extras. Call for more details. Won't last long! $379,500 361-553-9737 CONDOS PORT ARANSAS Fully Furnished Daily or Special Weekly Rentals 361-558-6148
Island Lot For Sale FINGERTIP WATERFRONT LOT 95’ waterfront $35,000 retaining wall already in $209,000 361-446-2847 Office Space For Rent PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE 14646 Compass St. Contact Phil 361-215-0818
Public Support Meetings Al-Anon & AA Meetings
Is alcohol causing a problem in your family? Try Al-Anon Al-Anon meets at 7:00 pm Sundays at Padre Island Baptist Church Friends and families of problem drinkers find understanding and support at
Al-Anon meetings
An Al-Anon group meets each Thursday at 7:00 PM at
Island in the Son United Methodist Church 10650 Highway 361 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS
Crossword Solution
The Sunset 7 AA Meetings are held on Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7 PM at The Presbyterian Church On the Island 14030 Fortuna Bay Dr. In addition AA Meetings are held at 8 AM at The Pavillion on the Boardwalk Near Padre Bali
Help Wanted!
Cooks, Cashiers and Managers Apply in Person or Call 949-6769
14254 SPID Phone: 361-949-6769 scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com
Creating Dreams for Island Homeowners since 1987
• • • • •
New Homes Remodels Additions Repairs No job too big or too small
Call 774-7043 for estimate www.billgoinhomes.com
THEMinor MEDICAL CENTER + Emergency Family Healthcare Minor Surgery Lab X-Ray Occupational
Now Serving
Speci
Quadrivalent Flu Vaccine Now Available!
al Wax $25.0 0
B i k iand Beer n i Wine
The superior Quadrivalent Vaccine has a broader coverage than the Trivalent vaccine which is more readily available
Open 6 Days a Week
No Appointments Necessary Mon-Thurs, Appointments available Fri-Sat Mon. - Sat. 8am - 6pm 14433 SPID “On the Island” Corpus Christi, TX 78418 www.tmcpadre.com
Water Access Laguna Madre
s Pedicure...$20.00 s Manicure...$10.00 s Full Set from...$22.00 - $30.00 s Fill...$15.00 - $20.00 s European Facial...$40.00 In Big Shell Plaza on the Island NEW Around corner fromLOCATION! Subway Sandwich Shop
361-949-1900
14457S.S.P.I.D. 14225 P. I. D.,Suite Suite109 7 Corpus Christi, TX 78418
A 18
Three Chords and the Truth
May 7, 2015
Island Moon
A protégé of legendary songwriters Townes Van Zandt and Guy Clark, Earle quickly became a master storyteller in his own right, with his songs being recorded by Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Emmylou Harris, Waylon Jennings, Travis Tritt, The Pretenders, Joan Baez and countless others. 1986 saw the release of his debut record, Guitar Town, which shot to number one on the country charts and immediately established the term “New Country.” Local song slingers, Ty Dietz and Pake Rossi will open the show along with the Mastersons, who are a couple that also play in Earle’s band, The Dukes.
By Ronnie Narmour ronnienarmour@gmail.com
Motorcycle safety… I want to send out heartfelt condolences to family and friends of the late Chief Floyd Simpson, who recently died in a motorcycle accident on Highway 361 near Port A. This has been such a tremendous tragedy in our community. I also want to give a shout-out to my friend, Jeff Miller. Jeff is the proprietor of Keeper’s, the pier house at Horace Caldwell Pier in Port Aransas. I ran into Jeff the other evening as he was hobbling by me with a cane. I stopped to shake his hand and inquire into his new accessory. Turns out he was involved in a motorcycle wreck on Padre Island recently and darn near met his maker. He then pulled off his baseball cap to reveal a dozen or more staples in his noggin. It seems he took a corner too fast and laid his bike down in some loose gravel… and he wasn’t wearing a helmet. The subject of motorcycle safety is certainly on everyone’s mind lately. I know it was an issue that Chief Simpson took to heart. If you own a motorcycle, I encourage you to slow down and ride as defensively as humanly possible. To say you are vulnerable is certainly an understatement. And to all the other drivers out there, always keep one eye out for our friends on two wheels. It’s easy to miss them and the slightest mistake can easily become fatal. Rest in Peace Chief Simpson. You will be missed.
Hillbilly heaven…
Carol Elliott and Janet McLaughlin played Shorty’s last Saturday
Uel and Sierra Jackson performed at the Wild Horse Saloon last Thursday (Nashville, TN), the Toman Brothers (San Antonio, TX) and Myndfield (Corpus Christi, TX). Uel hadn’t been to town since Christmas and he still doesn’t give us much notice when he does come. He picked up a couple of quick shows at the Wild Horse and Drop Anchor.
around the state with them some and became close with all of them. The Tomans brought their own crowd with them for this gig, from San Antonio, Bandera, Medina, Hondo and points in between. This was a fun show. Also on Saturday, our own singer-songwriter with Nashville roots, Carol Elliott, brought on old friend and colleague from Nashville to town, Janet McLaughlin, for a show at Shorty’s. Janet was in the area, having just played a show at Texas A&M Kingsville. It was a delightful song swap on the porch at Shorty’s with these two pros. It couldn’t have been a nicer evening.
DO NOT MISS LIST Steve Earle and the Dukes…
The big horn band, Myndfield, played Giggity’s last Friday
Our favorite folky Okies, Joe Mack and Sky Smeed, played the Flats last Friday night I had a wonderful weekend this week. For starters, my good friends the “folky Okies”, Joe Mack and Sky Smeed, hit town for a couple of shows at Giggity’s and Shorty’s. Individually, these fellows are a phenomenon, but paired up they are a force to be reckoned with. Joe Mack is capable of setting the neck of his guitar on fire with only his fingers at any given moment. He pretty much stuck to the mandolin on this run, and left the guitar duties to Sky. Sky has a softer, finger picking approach to his arrangements and his songs tend to be of the singer-songwriter variety. Joe Mack is of the hillbilly bluegrass ilk and is ready to throw-down at any given moment. Last year they brought the “Queen of Oklahoma’, Carter Sampson, with them and brother, it couldn’t have gotten any better. BTW, Carter just won first place (among 639 entries) in the songwriter’s competition at Merlefest in Wilkesboro, NC. And speaking of bluegrass, my little hillbilly gospel band, the Sandy Bottom Boys, played their first road gig on Sunday at the St. Bart’s Episcopal in Corpus. We’ll be at Trinity By the Sea in Port A on the 24th.
It was old home week at the Wild Horse on Thursday when many of the old Tarpon Ice House crowd came to see Uel and his daughter, Sierra Jackson, perform. It was great to see exTarpon owner, Paul Fain and the crew all in one place. On Friday, Myndfield, the big seven piece horn band led by bassist/vocalist Glynn Garcia, debuted at Giggity’s. Man, these guys put on a mind blowing performance. I was pleasantly surprised to find Antone Perez on drums and Eddie Olivarez on tenor sax in this band. They ran through a set list loaded with gems from the likes of Nelson Riddle, Louis Armstrong, Tower of Power, Sarah Vaughan, Glenn Miller, The Gypsy Kings and Frank Sinatra, etc. This was definitely music for an older audience, but they held the crowd and kept the dance floor swinging all night. On Saturday, my old pals from S.A., The Toman Brothers, played Giggity’s. I’ve known the brothers Toman, Randy and Russell, since the early 80’s when I managed the storied San Antonio honky tonk, Jus’ Country. They were the great Gary Stewart’s (Whiskey Trip, She’s Acting Single I’m Drinking Double, Drinking Thing, An Empty Glass, etc) road band. I used to run
The week in review… Also last weekend, I was privileged to see shows by Uel Jackson (Sabinaw, TX), Carol Elliott (Port Aransas, TX) and Janet McLaughlin
The Toman Brothers played Giggity’s last Saturday
GIGGITY’S RESTAURANT & BAR Free Beer Band Beau Walker Mike Milligan Antone & the All Stars Open Jam w/ Selfie Paul Taylor Band Jim Dugan
IN PORT A
The Spot for your
Island Fiesta
May 7 May 8 May 9 May 10 May 11 May 12 May 13
Open 11am-2am Daily. Kitchen open til 1am. 722 Tarpon, Port Aransas, TX
Handsome Sailor Tiki Bar
Specializing in 70 Premium Tequilas! Catering for any Occasion Closed Monday 222 Beach St. Port A (361) 749-0022
Open Mic
May 8
Cowboy Ben & the Wannabees
May 9
Open Mic
May 15
Special Surprise Guest
May 16
Open Mic
May 22
Earl Guard & Friends
May 23
508 Bigelow @ Conn Brown Harbor, Aransas Pass (361) 790-6668
Arrrr you ready?
Adventure Tour More than a boat ride. It’s a show and you’re in it! Fend off a Pirate Attack in an Epic Squirt Gun Battle Woody’s Sport Center 136 W. Cotter, Port Aransas, (361) 749-6969 CHRISTOPHER TODD JORDAN Designer & Builder of Food & Beverage Facilities
• Creative Problem Solving • Decorative Concrete • Custom Lighting • Residential & Commercial • References Provided
Lighted Pier in the Gulf of Mexico Pole Rentals
christophertoddjordan@gmail.com
Bait, Beer, Burgers & Wings
361-453-0147
Horace Caldwell Pier Port A 230 N. On the Beach (361) 749-5333
Coming this week…
Steve Earle and the Dukes will play the House of Rock on Sunday The big DO NOT MISS show this weekend, without a doubt, is the Steve Earle and the Dukes show at the House of Rock on Sunday the 10th. The GRAMMY award winning, Earle is in the middle of a massive national tour that won’t end until September. Earle offered, “What else am I going to do. I don’t do drugs anymore. I don’t drink. I’d fish if I lived in a place where I could, but I don’t.” Earle does have some history in our area. He played the Executive Surf Club once and having grown up in San Antonio, his family often vacationed in Port Aransas when he was growing up. A man of many hats, Steve Earle is not only a singer-songwriter but also a writer, an actor, a painter and a political activist.
Thomas Michael Riley with master guitarist Larry Nye will play the Back Porch on Friday. On Thursday the 7th, the great Uncle Lucius (Austin,TX) will play the South Texas Ice House, Devon Allman (son of Duane Allman) will play the House of Rock and William Clark Green will play Brewster Street. On Friday the 8th, redneck country singer Beau Walker (Kingsville, TX) will play Giggity’s and the nicest guy in country music today, Thomas Michael Riley will play the Back Porch with one of the finest guitarist on the planet, Larry Nye. Also, Selfie will be at Shorty’s and Mark Wilks will play the Gaff. On Saturday the 9th, GRAMMY nominee Randy McAllister will play the Porch and blues jumper Mike Milligan and Texiana Bluz will play Giggity’s.
On the horizon… In the following weeks, watch for shows by the Songwriters Showcase, Cody Canada, Jason Eady, Mandy Rowden, Clarissa Serna, The Bellfuries, The Supervillains, Jesse Dayton, Fred Eaglesmith, Ulrich Ellison, Gary P. Nunn, Matt Hole, Larry Joe Taylor, Max Stalling, Josh Abbott, Kyle Park and Jack Ingram. That ought to keep you busy for a while.
♫ ♪ And, that’s the truth! ♪ ♫
Live Music Tonight
Thursday, May 7 Free Beer Band @ Giggity’s Fabian Rivera @ Scuttlebutt’s Duke E. Brown @ Rockit’s Devon Allman, Cathouse @ House of Rock Uncle Lucius @ South Texas Ice House William Clark Green, Shane Smith @ Brewster Street Ice House
Friday, May 8 Beau Walker @ Giggity’s Thomas Michael Riley @ Back Porch Selfie @ Shorty’s Mark Wilks @ The Gaff Chris Saenz @ Scuttlebutt’s Open Mic @ Handsome Sailor Tiki Bar Russell Edge & Jim Dugan @ Sunset Sounds Lyrical Binge @ Executive Surf Club Avenue Rockers, Knockouts, Shadow of the Giant, Shayna Sands @ House of Rock S.A. Lights (Tribute to Journey) @ Brewster Street Ice House New Town Groove @ Vino Mio Social Club Saturday, May 9 Mike Milligan & Texiana Bluez @ Giggity’s Randy McAllister @ Back Porch Billy Snipes @ Shorty’s TBA @ Scuttlebutt’s Shattered Sun @ House of Rock Cowboy Ben & the Rawhide Wannabees @ Handsome Sailor Tiki Bar Belt Sander Races, Uncle Willie, Russell Edge @ The Gaff 2nd Saturday Sing-Along Piano Show @ Brewster Street Ice House Starlite & the Moonbeams @ Vino Mio Social Club Broken Spokes @ Executive Surf Club Mongos Stereo @ Rockit’s Sunday, May 10 Steve Earl & the Dukes, The Mastersons, Pake Rossi & Ty Dietz @ House of Rock Antone & the All Stars @ Giggity’s John Eric @ Scuttlebutt’s ONE- A Tribute to Metallica @ Brewster Street Ice House
Thomas Michael Riley May 8 Randy McAllister May 9 Scarecrow People May 14 Bellfuries May 15 Jesse Dayton May 16 Nick Verzosa May 21 Gary P. Nunn May 22 Larry Joe Taylor May 23 132 W. Cotter St. Port A On the Waterfront
Selfie May 8 Billy Snipes May 9 Jim Dugan May 15 Ty Dietz Band May 16 Ulrich Ellison & Tribe May 22 90 Proof May 23 Beau Walker May 24 OPEN Till 2am • 823 Tarpon St. Port Aransas
Full Bar & Grill
Rich Lockhart (6-9) May 15 Billy Snipes (6-9) May 22 361-945-9595, 118 Cut Off Rd., Port Aransas www.dropanchorportaransas.com
Best Rates Call for special pricing
(361)290-7143 314 E. Ave. G www.bronsbeachcarts.com
The Gaff Beer ● Pizza ● Belt Sander Races (361) 749-5970
Monday, May 11 Open Jam w/ Selfie @ Giggity’s Rich Lockhart @ Scuttlebutt’s It Lies Within, Nevada Rose, Party Foul, Filth, Blood of Our Brothers @ House of Rock
Tuesday, May 12 Paul Taylor Band @ Giggity’s John Eric @ Scuttlebutt’s Open Mic @ House of Rock Wednesday, May 13 Jim Dugan @ Giggity’s Robert Brown @ Scuttlebutt’s Green Light Party @ House of Rock Thursday, May 14 Free Beer Band @ Giggity’s Scarecrow People @ Back Porch Duke E. Brown @ Rockit’s Darren McGill @ Scuttlebutt’s Cody Canada, Adam Hood, Jason Eady @ Brewster Street Ice House Friday, May 15 Ruben & the Rolling J’s @ Giggity’s The Bellfuries @ Back Porch Jim Dugan @ The Gaff Open Mic @ Handsome Sailor Tiki Bar Chris Saenz @ Scuttlebutt’s Mandy Rowden @ Shorty’s Clarissa Serna @ Brewster Street Ice House Supervillains, Audic Empire, Tydings, Flatbroke @ House of Rock Myndfield @ Vino Mio Social Club Saturday, May 16 Red Giant @ Giggity’s Ty Dietz Band @ Shorty’s Jesse Dayton @ Back Porch Russell Edge @ The Gaff Fabian Rivera @ Scuttlebutt’s Fred Eaglesmith, Tif Ginn @ House of Rock Special Surprise Guest @ Handsome Sailor Tiki Bar Metal Shop @ Brewster Street Ice House