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March 6, 2014
Not the only Island in Texas that is thankful Spring Break only comes once a year.
Around The Island
By Dale Rankin editor@islandmoon.com
Barefoot Mardi Gras is behind us now and this was the best ever with more than forty floats and a beach full of several thousand people. Congratulations to the krewes and Denise and Duane who made it all come together. See the photos in this issue and we’re looking forward to next year. Spring is about to Break By the time you read this Spring Break will be in full bloom. If you are reading it Thursday remember the Annual CCPD Speed Trap on Whitecap will be operating throughout the afternoon and likely will be back next Thursday. If you are going to Port Aransas good luck dodging the invasion of Department of Public Safety Troopers who now annually descend on the citizenry there and make a general nuisance of themselves until enough Spring Breakers show up to keep them occupied on the beach. What should be a great week for business in Port A has turned into a mediocre one at best as word has spread on the DPS horde who use the Spring Break weekend as a way to fill their coffers while lightening those of local business for a week. The term To Protect and Serve is thrown on the scrapheap in favor of To Fine and Collect.
Photo by Jan Rankin Next Publication Date: 3/13/2014 Facebook: The Island Moon Newspaper
How The Island Voted Chesney wins Island vote but Baker beats incumbent McComb in race for County Commissioner
Year 17, Issue 516
Update on Island projects
Schlitterbahn, Seawall Beach Driving, ATVs on the Beach
By Dale Rankin The most hotly contested race on Tuesday ballot is now headed for a runoff with Islanders backing favorite son Norm Baker over incumbent Joe McComb, but challenger Brent Chesney taking the Island vote. A total of 1324 voters cast ballots on North Padre Island – 10 - 1 Republican over Democrat; and in Port Aransas 632 ballots were cast – slightly more than 2-1 Republican. Countywide 21,102 ballots were cast, 12,817 for Republicans. In the Republican race for Nueces County Commissioner Precinct 4, which includes North Padre Island, Port Aransas, and Flour Bluff, voters countywide favored challenger Brent Chesney with 47% of the votes, with incumbent Joe McComb getting 39% and Islander Norm Baker 14%, sending the race into a runoff. A total 1131 Republican voters cast ballots in the two North Padre Island precincts.
Election continued on A3
Prepare to be boarded.
Kiddie Pool at Schlitterbahn By Dale Rankin The meeting of the Island Strategic Action Committee (ISAC) Monday night was attended by a full house of Island residents who heard updates on several Island projects. Here are the highlights.
Schlitterbahn. Developer Paul Schexnailder told the group that there have been seventeen lost workdays on the park project due to weather. However, he said, the park is still set for opening in June.
Projects continued on A6
Spring Break tips For the uninitiated here are a few Spring Break Survival Tips: Stay away from the beach North of Packery Channel. It’s a mosh pit made worse in recent years by the narrowing of the beach there. If you are going up SH 361 to Port A be prepared for it to take about an hour' last year the traffic was backed up past Corpus Christi City Limits more than ten miles.
2014
Forget crossing on the ferries in Port A. This is a pipe dream if you are going to the beach go early as most Spring Breakers are not early risers. Do your grocery shopping early and good luck.
Before you know it Once we get through Spring Break the next big weekend on the Island calendar will be the 4th of July and this holiday will mark the second year for the 4th of July Blast! fireworks show. Jerry and Sharon Watkins are busy getting things ready, and raising money, after last year’s great kickoff event. The location will be the same as last year, the city-owned lot at the end of Whitecap next to the Yacht Club. We’ll have more information as we get closer.
Quiet Island We have not had any more reports of loud booms on the south end of The Island in over a week now. Whatever was causing them seems to have moved on. Remember folks, Spring Break is but a speed bump before we get to April which is our best month on The Island (usually). We'll see you on the other side and in the meantime say hello if you see us Around The Island.
TPWD Proposing Changes for Bag Limits on Oysters, Flounder, Seatrout Holding Two Public Hearings in Corpus Christi on March 19, 20
More Barefoot Mardi Gras on Page A9
A little Island history
Spring Break Is Upon Us! Get Ready!
AUSTIN -- The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has slated two public hearings for Corpus Christi to gather comment on proposed fishing and hunting regulation changes. TPWD staff presented proposed amendments to the 2014-15 Statewide Recreational and Commercial Fishing Proclamation to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. The recommended changes to saltwater fishing include: • Oyster harvest: Temporary 2-year closure of a 54-acre oyster restoration site on Half-Moon reef in Matagorda Bay, and a 2-year temporary closure of seven restoration sites located in East Galveston Bay. • Flounder: Extension of the November 2-fish
Fish continued on A5
The Many Deaths of Davy Crockett 178th Anniversary of the Battle of the Alamo
From the Texas Reader If you were around and paying attention in 1975, you might remember the uproar that accompanied the publication of the English translation of the diary of Jose Enrique de la Peña. De la Peña, who was with Santa Anna during the siege and storming of the Alamo, 178 years ago this week, gave a vivid account of the battle and it's aftermath. What caused the uproar was his depiction of Davy Crockett taken prisoner and executed on Santa Anna's orders.
Spring Break Schedules for Texas Colleges & Universities on Page A6
"Some seven men had survived the general carnage and, under the protection of General Castrillon, they were brought before Santa Anna. Among them was one of great stature, well proportioned, with regular features, in whose face there was the imprint of adversity, but in whom one also noticed a degree of
resignation and nobility that did him honor. He was the naturalist David Crockett, well known in North America for his unusual adventures...Santa Anna answered Castrillon's intervention in Crockett's behalf with a gesture of indignation and, addressing himself to the sappers, the troops closest to him, ordered his execution." That's a tough pill to swallow for any red-blooded Texan raised knowing that Davy went down fighting, swinging "Old Betsy" over his head as a war club.
Not a new story But it wasn't the first time that story had been heard. Not by far. Less than three weeks after the battle, the New Orleans Post-Union reported that passengers
History continued on A8
A 2
Island Moon
Port Aransas Mardi Gras Parade 2014
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March
6,
2014
March 6, 2014
Moon Monkeys
Island Moon
Letters to the Editor
Mike Ellis, Founder
In your February 20, 2014 edition of “The Island Moon” under the “Around The Island” article you state the following: “Compensation for the Precinct 4 job, according to the current Nueces County Budget, is $118,294 which breaks down as follows: The Official Salary is $71,639, add in Employee Benefits at $37,115, Vehicle Allowance at $9,540 and you have a total package of $118,294,
Distribution Pete Alsop Island Delivery
Making the job one of the highest non-judicial elected posts in local government.”
Coldwell Banker Advertising
By using the phrases: ““Compensation for the Precinct 4 job”, and “Making the job one of the highest non-judicial elected posts in local government.”, it appears to me that the intent of the article was to make your readers believe the Commissioners compensation is $118,294, which is totally incorrect.
Jan Park Rankin Classifieds Arlene Ritley Design/Layout Jeff Craft
I showed your article to Nueces County Auditor, Mr. Dale Atchley, CPA and asked him to review the numbers and provide me the total compensation breakdown for the, in your words, “Precinct 4 job”.
Contributing Writers Joey Farah Andy Purvis Devorah Fox
Below is the Auditors response to the figures
Mary Craft Jay Gardner
Island Moon,
Todd Hunter Dotson Lewis Ronnie Narmour Brent Rourk Dr. Donna Shaver Photographers Miles Merwin Jeff Dolan Mary Craft Office Security/Spillage Control
As you are aware the Commissioner for the Texas Department of Insurance is proposing to adopt loss funding rules that will have a negative impact on the Texas Coast. She held a hearing in Beaumont last week where a large number of people voiced their objections to the rules. Hearings were held in Austin on Monday and Corpus Christi on Wednesday to again solicit input on the rules. We hope you were able to attend one of the hearings. If you didn’t you can also send written objections before March 10. I would ask that you as well as organizations you are involved in voice your objection to the rules. Also please ask your friends, neighbors, business associates, chamber of commerce and governmental entities to do the same. We will continue to fight until we have windstorm insurance coverage we can rely on at affordable rates. Here is a list of specifics we are requesting: To: Members of the Texas Coastal Windstorm Task Force
Riley P. Dog Editor/Publisher/Spillage Control Supervisor Dale Rankin About the Island Moon
The Island Moon is published every Thursday, Dale Rankin, Editor / Publisher. Total circulation is 10,000 copies. Distribution includes delivery to 4,000 Island homes, free distribution of 3,000 copies in over 50 Padre Island businesses and condos, as well as 600 copies distributed in Flour Bluff, 1,400 copies on Mustang Island and Port Aransas businesses. News articles, photos, display ads, classified ads, payments, etc. may be left at the Moon Office.
The Island Moon Newspaper 15201 S. Padre Island Drive, Suite 250 Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361-949-7700 editor@islandmoon.com Facebook: The Island Moon Newspaper
Where to Find The Island Moon
Pioneer RV Park Stripes @ Beach Access Rd. 1A
Port A Glass Studio The Gaff Wild Horse Saloon Tarpon Ice House
North Padre
Miss K’s Catering & Bistro
All Stripes Stores
Amano
Whataburger
Felder Gallery
Doc’s Restaurant
Island Woman Boutique Coast Club Coffee Waves Moby Dicks Spanky’sLiquor IGA Grocery Store Port A Business Center Carter Pharmacy
CVS
Snoopy’s Pier Isle Mail N More Island Italian Ace Hardware Holiday Inn Texas Star (Shell) Jesse’s Liquor Padre Isles Country Club
San Juan’s Taqueria
Scuttlebutt’s Restaurant
Wash Board Laundry Mat
Subway
Port A Parks and Rec Public Library Chamber of Commerce Duckworth Antiques Back Porch Woody’s Sports Center Shorty’s Place The Flat’s Lounge Giggity’s Stripes @ Cotter & Station
The election will be over so it will not make any difference to the outcome, however your readers deserve the true facts. If you would like further information please contact Mr. Atchley directly. Thanks, Joe McComb Editor’s note: The numbers quoted in the article came from the current Nueces County Budget, but we will use the numbers provided above: $78,658.32 in pay, $9,540 in Vehicle Allowance, $37,115 in Employee Benefits (which since they are paid by the county and “benefit the employee” should be included) for a “total compensation package” of $125,313 for the Precinct 4 job rather than the $118,294 previously reported. We stand corrected.
Windstorm
Maybeth Christiansen
Lisabella’s Restaurant
you state which clearly shows the actual total compensation is (gross = $78,658.32 / net = $67,877.28) for the “Precinct 4 job”, a far cry from the $118,294 reported. In fairness and for accuracy to your readers, I request you print a clarification in the next edition of “The Island Moon” so your readers will know the true compensation for the “Precinct 4 job”.
Island Tire And all Moon retail advertisers WB Liquor
Flour Bluff H.E.B. Liquid Town Whataburger on Waldron Ethyl Everly Senior Center Fire Station
Gratitude Gift Shop
Police Station
Keepers Pier House
Stripes on Flour Bluff & SPID
From: Charles W. Zahn, Jr. Date: February 28, 2014 Re: Texas Department of Insurance Loss Funding Rule Process We continue to work on a solution to funding windstorm insurance for those of us who live and work on the Texas Coast. We need your help again today. The new Commissioner of Insurance has proposed rules on loss funding and premium surcharges for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. She published them several weeks ago and is seeking public input through hearings in Beaumont, Austin and Corpus Christi as well as through written comments. The hearing in Corpus Christi is Wednesday, March 5th at Texas A & M University, Corpus Christi. Written comments must be in by March 10th. The current commissioner believes that she is mandated to implement these rules by the terms of HB 3. We know after successfully stopping this trampling of Coastal residents rights that the language in HB 3 is permissive not mandatory. The purpose of this correspondence is to ask that you, your business, your City Council, Commissioner’s Court, utility district, trade association and Chamber of Commerce sent a letter by e-mail to:
That Old Familiar Moon 1-The stack [looks to be newly unbundled] of Moons at the Padre Island Subway is dated January 27 or so. I read half an article before I thought something strange here, this seems awfully familiar. Then I looked at the date. 2-A MANO in Port A has the Moon with yesterday’s date. Just one old bundle left on a truck? If there is more than one location with last month’s news, I respectfully suggest The only Island in Texas where we not only recycle paper but the news we print on it. Idle thoughts for an idle afternoon. Lynn Kramar
PACT to Sponsor Director’s Workshop By Brent Rourk The Port Aransas Community Theatre (PACT) proudly presents a Director’s Workshop on Saturday, March 29th at PACT. The workshop is intended for both those who want to become play directors as well as seasoned directors. Larry Stotts, an experienced director for many years who has directed 5 plays at PACT including recent hit Steel Magnolias, and Ken Yarbrough, who just received The Best Director at PACT for the 2013 play Shrek the Musical, will collaboratively present this informative workshop. The morning class is designed for anyone interested in becoming a play director. It will run from 9:00 AM until 12:00. Cost is $10.00 for materials and lunch. Stotts and Yarbrough plan to help the novice learn how to direct; from the basics to the next level. The afternoon class for advanced or experienced directors will start with at noon lunch. The class, also $10.00, will run from 1:00-4:00. The advanced class is for those directors having directed at least 1 play in any theater, not just at PACT. RSVP pactdarlene@yahoo.com on or before March 22nd. Novices are welcome to stay for the next class at no charge. The Port Aransas Community Theatre is located at 2327 Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX. Call 361-749-6036 if you have additional questions about the Director’s Workshop.
Texas Department of Insurance P.O. Box 149104 Austin, Texas 78714-9104 Attn: Mr. Brian Ryder – Brian-Ryder@tdi. texas.gov In your letter we would ask that you advise Texas Department of Insurance (“TDI”): 1. You oppose the adoption of the proposed rules. 2. That the adoption of the rules would have an adverse economic effect on the Texas Coast. 3. That the adoption of the rules and implementation of the funding sources through surcharges on the policies of only those on the Texas Coast would be and is discriminatory against those who live and work on the Texas Coast. 4. That TDI needs to explore alternate funding sources spreading the cost and the risk of a catastrophic event across the entire state of Texas. 5. That TDI should assess the insurance industry for Hurricane Ike losses in excess of premiums as provided by HB 4409, the statute in effect at that time, thereby putting an additional $400 million into the Catastrophe Reserve Trust Fund. 6. The new rules were authorized several years ago and have not been enacted. Our position is that we let the Texas Legislature, our elected officials, propose and adopt legislation to meet the needs of the proposed rules. The talking points above should help you communicate your dissatisfaction with what is being proposed. It is imperative that we respond before the deadline for public comment this afternoon. Again thanks for your help and commitment in helping us as well as your legislative delegation achieve a stable, predictable, reliable and affordable insurance market for the Texas Coast. Thanks for all you do. Charles W. Zahn, Jr. Attorney at Law Port Aransas
Andy Purvis Island Moon, I have some exciting personal news to share. The third book of my greatness series has now been released online. The title is "Greatness Continued" or it can be found under Andy Purvis, Sports Enthusiast. It is listed on Amazon.com and bn.com websites. I will have some copies in Beamer's in a week or so, I now have to send a copy to Barnes & Noble in New York for their sports editor to read and give their blessings to place the book in the local store with my other two. After that occurs then I can request a book signing event. I appreciate your support in the past. This book has 58 stories of some of the greatest athletes, coaches and broadcasters who have passed away these last two years. I have met most of them and these are my stories of those meetings. Some of the names are Stan Musial, Beano Cook, Joe Paterno, Gary Carter, Angelo Dundee, Junior Seau, Steve Sabol, Darrell Royal, Earl Weaver, Pat Summerall, Deacon Jones, Bum Phillips and Bill Sharman. There are also 40 photos. I hope you will find the stories interesting and as always I will be glad to sign your copy if needed. Thanks in advance. Andy Purvis
Election continued from A1
In Precinct 40 on North Padre at total of 574 Republican ballots were cast. Voters heavily favored Chesney with 46% -252 votes; McComb 25% 137 votes; Baker 29% - 160 votes. In Precinct 81 on North Padre, Baker’s home precinct, 557 ballots were cast with the breakdown in the Commissioner’s race much closer: Chesney 37% - 202 votes: McComb 28% - 151 votes: Baker 35% - 188 votes. So combined, Republican on North Padre Island voted Chesney 42%; Baker 32%; McComb 26% with votes totaling Chesney 454: Baker 348; McComb 288. In Port Aransas (Precinct 19) 439 Republican votes were cast with McComb winning handily with 54% - 231 votes: Chesney second with 39% - 164 votes; and Baker third with 6% - 26 votes. On the Democrat side at total of 193 Democrat ballots were cast on North Padre Island and 81 in Port Aransas.
A3
Did Ya Hear?
County Commissioner Salaries Hi Dale,
Port Aransas
by Mary Craft
mkay512@aol.com
New Advertisers Did Ya’ Hear? By Mary Craft
New Advertisers Barber Joe has his chair waiting for you inside Padre Island Mail Plus. Look for his $5 off straight-razor shave or haircut certificate in his ad this issue. Call him at 500-8955 or email BarberJoeSexton@ gmail.com. Doc’s Seafood & Steaks has part-time and full time employment opportunities available. They are currently hiring for positions as a shucker, prep cook, line cook and dishwasher. Apply in person at their restaurant located under the bridge. New Sound Hearing Aid Center can help you hear clearly again. They invite you to come in for a free ear canal exam to determine if wax is causing voices to sound muffled. For vision loss they have comfortable, invisible when worn hearing aids for just $750 each. They are located at 3061 S. Staples and can be reached at 2883830. Julie Reupke at Port Aransas Realty is selling dream homes from Port Aransas to Padre Island… amazing sunsets included. She is very familiar with both ends of the island having lived or worked at both for several years. Call her at 774-5645 for your buying or selling needs.
Business Briefs Island Time Sushi Bar & Seafood Grill will open soon in the Subway strip mall on SPID in the back building where IGIC was located. They are in the process of getting their wine and beer license. The 5th Annual Barefoot Mardi Gras Parade is an event that just keeps growing. This year there were 42 entries and 4-5000 spectators compared to about 3000 last year. Stan Hulse announced at the ISAC meeting this week that the Padre Island Business Association will be taking over the event and may be extending the length of the parade route. Schlitterbahn Water Park has poured the concrete for the two story pirate ship kiddie pool and they are about halfway through the construction of the Momentum River. The park and the first two stories of the main building are on schedule to open in June. The 35th Annual Fulton Oysterfest on the waterfront is this weekend and for the first time there will be fireworks. The four day event ends Sunday, March 9th at 6 pm. Aunt Sissy’s Kitchen has Dash & Dine coming April 1st Monday thru Thursday. You will be able to pick up one of her daily hot gourmet meals, fresh salad, soup and dessert. Fridays will be known as Half Price Freezer Sale for those meals that may have been left behind. The kitchen is located next to Scuttlebutt’s. First Friday Reception at the Port A Art Center features live music, light refreshments and works by local artists monthly. It’s a fun event and a great place to meet new people. The next one is March 7th 5:30 – 7:30 pm. If Ping Pong is your game then Monday is your day. Instructor Doc Cannedy is holding a Table Tennis class each Monday from 5-9 pm at the Ethel Eyerly Center at 654 Graham Road in Flour Bluff. There are classes for Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced players. The cost is $3 per session or $10 per month, or $40 for a family of four. The phone number at the center is 361 826-2330.
A 4
Island Moon
Police Blotter Doh! You got to be tough if you’re going to be stupid There was some good news and some bad news at the Padre Island Yacht Club last Saturday night. The bad news is that a driver smashed into the main gate and left it dangling sideways on its hinges causing several thousand dollars in damage. The good news is that driver left his license plate behind so it wasn’t that hard for Commodore Vic to locate him and his Hyundai in Rockport. Note to self: If you run into the gate at the Yacht Club – or anywhere else for that matter – don’t leave your license plate behind…
feet each. Also, the right turn shoulder on PR 22 at Commodores Drive will be widened by four feet and lengthened by 800-1,000 feet. The lengthened turn lanes and wider shoulder are designed to ease congestion and to improve safety for motorists on southbound PR 22. All work is expected to be completed in about four months. Traffic control will be in place for the lane closures. Motorists are advised to slow down, plan for additional travel time, watch for work crews and proceed with caution through work zones.
2 a.m. sale of sunglasses in Flour Bluff parking lot goes horribly wrong Sunday, March 2, 2:11 a.m. 1250 Flour Bluff Drive Robbery (Penal Code Section 29.02) 2nd Degree Felony A 33-year-old man reported he was robbed at a store parking lot at 1250 Flour Bluff Drive to Corpus Christi Police Sunday morning. The 33-year-old man told Officers he posted sunglasses for sale on Facebook and a buyer agreed to meet the 33-year-old man in the store parking lot to make the purchase at 2:00 a.m. The 33-year-old man told Officers he handed the buyer the sunglasses and was immediately attacked by the buyer and two other men. Officers gathered information from witnesses and have identified potential suspects in this case. Officers recorded the 33-year-old man had obvious injuries, but the 33-year-old man refused medical attention. Officers continue to investigate.
Senior Moments
Are You Being Dragged, Kicking & Screaming into the Age of Modern Technology?--Part I By Dotson Lewis, dlewis1@stx.rr.com Special to the Island Moon Dotson’s note: If the above fits, you need to get with it. Many of us in the 50+ group resist in part, or in total, technological advances just to be stubborn or maybe because we fear the unknown. I believe that a majority of “Moon Monkeys” are members of the “Greatest Generation” (1912-1945) or a “Baby Boomer” (1946-1964); and should be more than willing to at least TRY the latest technology, no matter how “far-fetched,” it may appear to be. If you don’t like it…don’t use it.
Baby Boomers Are Shaping the Future of Technology A recent report paints a picture of how technological advances will change the lives of the over-50 population by 2019. Baby boomers have a unique relationship to technology — different from any generation before or since — and they are actively shaping the devices, software and services of tomorrow by the choices they are making today, according to a new research report from AARP and Microsoft.
The latest technology from Mercedes Benz--Concept Car, 2014
Who's house is this anyway? Wednesday, February 26, 7:20 a.m. 1010 Behmann Street Criminal Mischief (Penal Code Section 28.03) Class B Misdemeanor
Park Road 22/SPID work This week from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. each day crews will be repairing pavement and resurfacing Park Road 22 from Waldron Road in Flour Bluff to SH 361 on Padre Island. There will be single lane closures on eastbound PR 22 from 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. There will be single lane closures on westbound PR 22 from 8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Expect delays. No work will take place from March 7-23; all eastbound, westbound lanes will be open. Work on resurfacing Park Road 22 will be suspended from March 7-23 to avoid conflicting with Spring Break traffic on Padre Island. All lanes and shoulders will be open during this time. Crews will work through Thursday (March 6) from daylight to dark before suspending operations for Spring Break. Work will resume on March 24. The resurfacing project, which began Feb. 24, requires various single lane closures eastbound and westbound throughout the limits of the project, which is from just east of Waldron Road in Flour Bluff to the SH 361 intersection on Padre Island. In an effort to minimize disruptions during peak traffic periods, eastbound closures are scheduled from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. and westbound closures will be from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. One lane of traffic in each direction will always remain open during the work. Motorists are urged to allow additional travel time during the project. In addition to resurfacing PR 22, the project also involves lengthening the dual left turn lanes from PR 22 to SH 361 by about 1,000
Corpus Christi Police arrested a 23-yearold man at an apartment complex located at 1010 Behmann Street for criminal mischief Wednesday morning. Corpus Christi Police responded to a complaint from a 59-year-old man who said that an unknown person forced his way into the apartment at 7:20 a.m. The 59-year-old man told Officers he heard a person bang on the front door and attempted to enter, then broke the window and climbed inside the apartment. The 59-year-old man told Officers he pushed the man back out the window and called for help. The 59-yearold man pointed out the man who broke the window and Officers arrested the suspect for criminal mischief and public intoxication. Officers learned the suspect resides in the same apartment complex, but tried to enter the wrong apartment by mistake. Officers delivered him to the city detention center.
Police Calls 13300 block SPID 4:35 p.m. March 1 Reckless Damage or destruction 14200 block SPID 10:07 p.m. March 2 Reckless Driving 11800 block SH 361 3:29 p.m. Feb. 25 Criminal mischief $1500-$20,000 14900 block Dasmarinas 8:49 a.m. Feb. 28 Credit Card abuse 15600 block Cruiser 11 a.m. Feb. 25 Assault with injury 15800 block SPID 7:30 a.m. Mar. 1 Burglary from motor vehicle 14000 block Fortuna Bay Dr. 10:30 a.m. March 2 Criminal mischief $500-$1500
Port Aransas Community Theatre Presents ‘Sandy Awards’ for 2013
By Brent Rourk
The Port Aransas Community Theatre’s (PACT) yearly awards, the Sandy Awards, were presented at the PACT on Sunday, February 23rd. Many fine, local actors were awarded Sandys. Shrek, with its incredibly colorful and creative costumes, earned Best Production as well as a handful of other awards. All youth who have been on stage in Cinderella's Dream, Halloween Mimes & School House Rock received awards from their directors; Ashley Knotts, Danny Reyes & Gayle DeMontel.
Do we understand how baby boomers view and use technology? AARP and Microsoft decided to ask. In May 2009, the two organizations sponsored a series of focus group-like discussions with baby boomers in four U.S. cities: San Francisco, Phoenix, Chicago and New York. Author and futurist Michael Rogers led the sessions as the baby boomers shared their technology-related experiences, insights and expectations — and how their personal values shape the way they choose and use technology. The result is “Boomers and Technology: An Extended Conversation” a report that offers fresh insights into a generation whose influence on technology is often overlooked, and creates a compelling picture of how boomers and other consumers will use technology in the near future. “Baby boomers are savvy consumers who expect technology to be safe, easy to use and flexible enough to adapt to their individual needs,” said Rob Sinclair, director of Accessibility at Microsoft, who notes that many baby boomers came of age before most of the software applications and devices we now consider essential were invented. “When new technology products enter the market — products that are well-designed and can help create the life baby boomers want — they are enthusiastic early adopters who help lead the way.”
A special presentation was made to Hilton Crocker in the honor of his wife, Laura Crocker, who passed away this last year. Theatre manager Darlene Secich gratefully summed up the Sandy Awards as, “The BEST thing that PACT does. A big ‘thank you’ to those actors and actresses for their time and talent who put on the best shows in Port Aransas. We are blessed. Thank you to the entire community for its support.” Daddy’s Dyin, Who’s Got the Will director Emily Regier thoroughly enjoyed the entertaining award ceremony and commented, “I thought it went very well and thanks to Ken and Darlene for their hard work in setting it up. It was nicely presented.” Director and actor Ken Yarbrough offered,
“The Sandys are the PACT’s way of celebrating the accomplishments of all of the volunteers of the past season. It was enthusiastic, celebratory, musical and fun.” Currently playing at PACT is the comedy Til Beth Do Us Part.
Within the decade, Rogers forecasts that some baby boomers and other consumers will be wearing sensor-equipped exercise clothing and GPS-enabled running shoes during workouts to monitor their physical condition, track the calories they burn, and upload the information automatically for storage and analysis. Other boomers will have prescription glasses that connect wirelessly to the Internet or other networks and display information in the lower half of the lens, or carry mobile devices that can function as electronic wallets, offer full telepresence and project large-format images on the wall. Increasingly, baby boomers will use technology to help them care for their aging parents — employing sensors that alert them to changes in behaviors or routines that could signal problems — and to manage their own health with tools ranging from low-cost gene scans to implanted microchips that contain their health records. Boomers also will use computers to control energy use in their “green” homes and to redefine when, where and how they work. (For the complete forecast, see the full report and executive summary.) “Baby boomers appreciate cool software and devices as much as anyone, but they also believe technology has the power to help bring about positive social change, and they want to make that happen,” Sohn said. “Boomers care deeply about social justice and individual freedoms, and they see technology as a tool that people can use to improve their lives and make the world a better place — from making society more democratic to helping all of us participate more fully and more directly in the decisions that affect us.” Dotson’s Note: Your comments regarding the foregoing article; and your thoughts regarding technology now and in the future will be greatly appreciated. Email: dlewis1@stx.rr.com Phone: 361-949-7681 Cell: 530-748-8475 The Ethel Eyerly Senior Center is back with a full activities schedule which is shown below. Winter Texans are welcome. Following that, is information regarding computer classes for seniors at Del Mar College.
Ethel Eyerly Community Center Meals served for persons aged 60 and over at 11:30 A.M. ($1.50 suggested meal donation. MONDAY Silver Haired Fitness 10-11 AM ($8/month-Ladies Only) Computer Interest Group 12:30-2 PM Wii Bowling 12:30 PM TUESDAY Zumba Gold (Co-Ed) 10:30-11:30 AM
Yet, it is baby boomers’ values and ideals, more than their checkbooks, that are shaping the future of technology, according to Adam Sohn, director of Integrated Communications for AARP, a membership and advocacy organization for people age 50 and older.
(2nd & 4th Wednesdays)
Rogers, a futurist, agrees: “Baby boomers see technology as a gift, not a given, so they are less likely than younger consumers to take it for granted. At the same time, baby boomers aren’t dazzled by every new gadget that comes along. Yet by embracing innovative new services and devices, and using them in unexpected ways to enhance their lifestyles and values, baby boomers are having a tremendous influence on emerging technologies.”
($20/month or $4/session) Table Tennis & Table Games-12 PM WEDNESDAY Silver Haired Fitness 10-11 AM ($8/month-Ladies Only) AARP Chapter 4181 Meeting @ 1 PM THURSDAY Zumba Gold (Co-Ed) 10:30 AM ($20/month, or $4/session) Wii Bowling & Chair Volleyball 12:30-4:45 PM Quilting 2nd Thursday of the Month FRIDAY Silver Haired Fitness 10-11 AM ($8/month – Ladies Only) Table Tennis – 11 AM Bingo -12:30 PM ($.50 Cards) Del Mar College Spring 2014 Senior Education Classes Open for Registration Call 361-698-1328 to Register Introduction to Microsoft Excel 8:30-11:30 AM-April 7, 9, 14, 16, 21, 23, 28 (21 Hours)* The starting date of this class has been changed from March 3rd to April 7th.
We now have Gluten Free Pizza!
Best Production: Shrek the Musical Best Director: Ken Yarbrough - Shrek Best Actor: Heath Lauseng - Shrek Best Actress: Amanda Tipps - Shrek Best Actor in supporting role: Chuck Thompson - Daddy's Dyin, Who's Got the Will Best Actress in supporting role: Denise Keller - Daddy's Dyin, Who's Got the Will Best Actor in supporting role: Jordan Bruster - Shrek
LIVE MUSIC
South Texas Grassroots Bluegrass Band Starting Nov. 24th 6-9pm
Best Actress in supporting role: Katie Sikes - Daddy's Dyin, Who's Got the Will Best Female Vocalist: Amanada Tipps Shrek
♥ Reservations Recommended ♥
Lunch Specials Monday
Unlimited Spaghetti Salad
6.50
Tuesday
9 inch Sub for 6 inch Price
6.50
Best Costume Design: Ken Yarbrough and Darlene Secich - Shrek
Wednesday Thursday
Pasta Menu Full Order for 1/2 order price Salad with a 6-inch Sandwich & Drink
6.50
Best Set Design: Ken Yarbrough and Jeannie Pasch - Shrek
Friday
Unlimited Dinner Salad
5.99
Best Male Vocalist: Jordan Bruster - Shrek
The dragon drew gasps from the crowds
Based on his discussions with baby boomers, and his ongoing research into the relationship between society and technology and what’s currently in development, Rogers offers an exciting view of that world in 2019, just 5 years hence, when the youngest boomers will be turning 55 and Generation X will begin crossing the 50-year mark.
Baby boomers have the numbers and the economic clout to make their technology choices matter. As of 2010, one-third of the U.S. population was over 50. “That’s close to 106 million Americans controlling 50 percent of the country’s discretionary spending, and outspending younger adults by $1 trillion. It was reported that consumers in their 50s show the highest intent to purchase consumer electronics among any age group.
“Baby boomers want technology that reflects their values and helps them express those values with greater purpose, meaning and impact,” Sohn said. “While boomers are heavy users of technology today — for everything from entertainment and news to online banking and social networking — what’s most exciting is the technology-assisted world they are helping to create.”
Colorful costumes from Shrek were a big hit
March 6, 2014
Best Tech Director: Brian Miller and Savannah Sterling - Shrek
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
March 6, 2014
Island Moon
A5
Backwater Adventures Never Say Never
On the Rocks By Jay Gardner In this weeks’ installment, we’ll answer some fan mail. Michael Herman writes, “Hello Jay. Hope your winter is going well and are able to get out fishing now and then. Hey, without giving away any favorite fishing holes, what do you recommend we try for kayak fishing areas this time of year? We've been fishing the flats around Port A and CC for three years now and have noticed a decline in catch rates of redfish in late February and into March. Perhaps this is coincidence or perhaps not. We've tried shallow, deep, in-between water depths and still struggle to find more active fish. One would think that the warmer water temps would make them more active but my bet is that they are in other locales. January and early Feb were fabulous. Thanks for any advice. Mike”
Out to the Gulf Mike, you are absolutely correct, there are less redfish in the bays during the winter as the majority of the slot-and over-sized fish have migrated out to the Gulf to spawn outside the
By Joey Farah There are a few places to launch in Flour Bluff south of SPID if you do a little searching. Probably the best place however is to launch from the Dimmitt Pier area and get out into the Boat Hole. There are literally like three square miles of nice territory that has shallow flats adjacent to deeper water, as well as large areas of deeper flats. This area from the Causeway all the way past the bulkhead of the NAS holds both redfish and drum during the winter, as well as Deadman’s Hole. Try anchoring with some squid on the bottom out there. Chum some small pieces in the area. I fish there whenever I can.
44 and blowing 30 Mike, my winter is not going as well as I would like, and I’m not getting out to fish as often as I need to. The weather has been almost completely non-cooperative. I’m trying to get a skiff back in the water, but it’s hard to get motivated to work on it when it’s 44 degrees outside, blowing 30MPH, and the humidity is close to raining. Or it is actually raining. It
photo by Mike of Kim's 28 inch redfish passes and near shore areas. Many of these upper slot and oversized redfish can be found hanging around the oil and gas platforms off the beach (and drum too). I caught a few drum and Jason Ozolins caught a large redfish next to one of the platforms offshore just the other day, so they’re out there. This leaves the sub-legal redfish in the bays during the winter. This is one of the reasons many people turn to trout fishing because of the lack of redfish, although I have seen the numbers of incidental redfish caught going up over the years when trout fishing. The King Ranch Shoreline is loaded up with those guys right now; has been for a while.
doesn’t bode well for painting, or pouring resin, or feeling your hands when sanding. I sanded a piece of my thumb off the other day and didn’t notice. I was wet sanding some oxidation on the outside of the hull and only figured it out when the sandpaper got sticky from my blood and stuck to the hull. In addition, the upcoming time change should help as well, because my extension cord only gets my light stand to one side of the boat and I’ve been working half in the dark after work. Come to find out I painted half the hull black and the other half green because I mixed the cans up in the dark. Mike please tell old man winter to hit the road.
From a kayak
Well, Mike, you’re welcome to fish any of my favorite fishing holes, as I’m too busy to get out there, and there’s plenty of fish anyway. Thanks for the note and picture of your wife Kim with a great looking redfish. The rest of you loyal readers can shoot me an email at jaygardner@ scientist.com and I’ll see you in Texas! (belated shout out to Texas Independence Day last week)
But, you mentioned that you were fishing from a kayak. There are lots of great places to catch redfish at this point, and you don’t even need a kayak right now as reports have been pretty solid of redfish in the surf down on the seashore. Additionally any of the jetties can be decent year round for reds. If you want to get out on the kayak, head down to Yarborough pass on the seashore and get on the backside out in the flats. Tons of areas down there.
Fish continued from A1 bag limit through the first 2 weeks of December, and during those two weeks harvest would be allowed by any legal means. • Spotted Seatrout: Extension of the 5-fish bag and possession limit up the coast through East Matagorda Bay with a five-year sunset date. Public hearings in Corpus Christi are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Wednesday, March 19 at Texas A&M University CC Natural Resources Center, Room 1003 at 6300 Ocean Drive and on Thursday, March 20 at Del Mar College Center for Economic Development, Room 106 at 3209 Staples Street.
Additional proposals related to freshwater fishing and hunting will also be discussed at these public hearings and others scheduled around the state. A complete summary of all proposed changes to hunting and fishing regulations can be found in the Feb. 21 edition of the Texas Register and on the TPWD website. Comments on the proposed rules may be submitted by phone or e-mail to Robert Macdonald (512) 389-4775; e-mail: robert. macdonald@tpwd.texas.gov, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, Texas 78744. Comments may also be submitted through the department’s internet web site.
Tides of the Week
Tides for Corpus Christi (Bob Hall Pier) Mar 6-12, 2014
Day
High /Low
Tide Time
Height in Feet
Sunrise Moon Time Sunset
Moon Visible
Th
6
Low
12:13 AM
-0.1
6:48 AM Rise 10:26 AM
24
6
High
8:28 AM
1.3
6:32 PM
F
7
Low
1:10 AM
-0.1
6:47 AM Set 12:08 AM
7
High
10:35 AM
1.3
6:33 PM Rise 11:13 AM
Sa
8
Low
2:14 AM
-0.1
6:46 AM Set 1:01 AM
8
High
12:16 PM
1.3
6:33 PM Rise 12:00 PM
Su
9
Low
4:22 AM
0.0
7:45 AM Set 1:50 AM
9
High
2:11 PM
1.3
7:34 PM Rise 1:50 PM
M
10
Low
5:28 AM
0.0
7:44 AM Set 3:36 AM
10
High
2:48 PM
1.3
7:35 PM Rise 2:40 PM
Tu
11
Low
6:28 AM
0.0
7:43 AM Set 4:18 AM
11
High
3:11 PM
1.3
7:35 PM Rise 3:31 PM
W
12
Low
7:20 AM
0.1
7:41 AM Set 4:58 AM
12
High
3:23 PM
1.3
7:36 PM Rise 4:22 PM
12
Low
9:01 PM
1.0
Th
13
High
12:16 AM
1.1
7:40 AM Set 5:36 AM
13
Low
8:07 AM
0.1
7:36 PM Rise 5:14 PM
13
High
3:29 PM
1.2
13
Low
9:15 PM
0.9
F
14
High
1:25 AM
1.1
7:39 AM Set 6:12 AM
14
Low
8:50 AM
0.2
7:37 PM Rise 6:06 PM
14
High
3:36 PM
1.2
14
Low
9:30 PM
0.8
33 43 52 62 71 79
86
92
Farah’s Fishing Adventures Anyone that will tell you that what you are fishing with or the way you are fishing “will never catch fish” will most definitely be proven wrong. Anything can work if the fish are hungry or if luck is on your side. This week I had the opportunity to fish with a local angler that was once a B.A.S.S tournament champion and national competitor on the highest level. Barry Gross is now just Lola Grundy with a redfish she caught south of Bird Island a laid back Island guy with an on soft plastics fishing with Barry Gross this week. 32inches exciting new business saving any cuts or nicks. That made me feel like I was people money and is once again on the national ready to be back on the B.A.SS tour with him! level in his endeavors. We got out on the water He had cut off the leader I tied on his line, I with Lola and his friend Mike for some trout would never advise a customer to do that but fishing with plastics, the drum had been going watching him play the fish with that in mind and off but the trout bite was tough the day before. check his line I knew he had wanted to get a Barry said, “Joey I just want to go out have a little bit longer cast, more sensitivity, and a little good time and pick your brain”. When you have better action. This all leads me to the point that that attitude good things happen and they did. leave yourself open to new things in the fishing We started off along the King Ranch Shoreline world, but stick to what you have confidence in and moved up shallow in hopes of surprising a as well. long black- backed trophy trout. As we moved I laughed and kept casting and started in on a up into the shallows we picked apart the sand story of an old man I fished with on the boat pockets without a bite. I explained that the many years ago as a young fishing guide. I had larger fish keep their body temperatures up three young anglers and one of their fathers. easier and that they would undoubtedly be some The old man tied on a strait worm and was larger trout up along the beach, waiting for the reeling quickly then “Yo-Yoing” the rod up and baitfish to move up when the sun came out. down like he was swatting flies. I laughed and Large mullet skipped told the man “you can’t catch fish along the surface and that way!” He laughed at me and some seemed to be in the next few casts he set the nervous but still no hook on a nice five pound trout. bites. What a fluke! Then another then another. Soon I was schooled We watched as some into why and what his strategy waders three hundred was and everyone on the boat yards away caught and was swatting flies. As I told the landed a large trout story and mimicked the old man’s and then preceded to movements, I caught a nice keeper yell at us that it was there spot. Go figure, Islander Ernie Buttler has been on my first cast while telling the taking our Wounded Sarriors story. I try to help anglers make when I’m in the water fishing and slamming the fish. sound decisions in their fishing wade fishing every with suggestions on tackle and boat in the bay comes techniques that I have learned right in front of me then leaves with the large outboard throwing mud up, I slide into the flats from others, and a lot of experimentation. With on a trolling motor three hundred yards away four or five fishermen I’ll make small changes and slide out and the guys from out of town to their set ups looking to see if one works better than another. When it does I make them think they need to yell on a Saturday morning. switch poles, most of the time without them So the conversation moved towards last even knowing. When the worst fishermen start week’s article about how smart and aware of catching fish with it, it usually works. the presence of man those mature trout can be Some small details that seem to make a and we decided to move out towards the deeper drop-off in search of the larger school of fish difference in catching and not catching that you that had been holding out on the break in the can experiment on your own with this season bottom at five feet. The dense fog rolled in may move you to catch fish or fight with your and socked in the bay, we could see the green fishing partner, but in the end you will have water at the grass line glowing under the boat confidence in your favorites. Just remember to and started our first drift. Barry was asking keep an open mind. Colored Jig Heads, I have smart questions about how and why I was using found that chartreuse, red, and other colors do not help, but hurt your chances of getting a strike. In some cases they work better, but on the AVERAGE the metallic natural lead color is best. Using a good leader to keep the line from being damaged will land more fish and is a must when using colored mono filament line. When using braided line a length of mono leader gives your bait a softer more natural movement, as well as moving the sold colored line up away from the bait. This is also something that some may disagree with in that some may say that it keeps the angler from feeling the movement of the bait or collect grass. In my experience, I’d rather have my customers not break off that Island local Rick Bosworth brought his fish as they are already seeing their Facebook pics. Silver or black hooks work best, I’ve had brother-in-law Rob down for some trout Cajun fishermen swear that they can’t catch fish fishing but hooked this monster drum on silver hooks, only gold. Move your lure with along the King Ranch shoreline on soft the tip of your rod not with the reel. This is true plastics. with all lures except crank baits and deep divers, leader, fishing the deeper water, what colors I but…..I’ve had folks both slow and fast crank liked best and so on. I gave Lola a rod spooled lures and catch fish right next to me plenty of with braided line and mono leader and it was times. The list goes on and on and keeps the giving her fits, we had used it for a week without fishing world always on its toes, with open a tangle and she couldn’t catch a fish. She stole minds and tackle boxes across the world. Barry’s pole rigged with the mono filament she In closing, I think the best thing that came my was used to, things changed immediately. Barry trip with Barry Gross last week was the thought cut the leader off his pole and tied strait to the that all of us should find some other souls to 10 lb line and slid on his favorite soft plastic. enjoy our favorite pastime and hobby with. They both started catching fish with no tangles. Fishing with anglers of equal or greater levels of Mike, who had no experience was casting and experience is very healthy. Next time you find using the same set up I gave Lola without any yourself in a slump, instead of telling fishermen problems. We all laughed and talked about how lies around the dock, or sporting goods store, fishing, rather catching is extremely dependent ask invite a new fishing partner out for a session. on confidence. Both of you may just learn something new, like When Barry caught the first fish he had been the FLY SWATTER! using a very different technique than I and stuck SPRING BREAK!!! a nice three pound fish on a fast retrieve, he It is here despite all the cold and rain. Looks played the fish aggressively but with a soft drag, figure “8”ed the fish at the boat and flipped it up like the sun is going to pop out a bit this week as and in, I nabbed the fish before it hit the deck well. I wouldn’t go jump in the water, at around and unhooked it. Without a wasted movement 60 degrees on the beach it is still very cold. Take Barry turned and flipped the bait back out after the kids fishing this week, please.If you have a he ran his fingers down the line to test it for boat go explore and do what you normally do, but remember that they will have just as much fun walking the beach finding old lures and stuff as catching a fish.
BEACH FISHING IS THE BEST THING FOR KIDS THIS WEEK! The whiting are thick and are easy to catch. Bob Hall and Horace Caldwell Piers are a great place to start. Use small #2 or#4 circle hooks on the bottom with small pieces of peeled shrimp, fish bites, or cut bait. There is no limit on size or number of whiting you can keep and they are some of the best eating little fish we have. They fight hard and are usually surrounded by sand trout and croaker. Take them out and create a memory, it you need help having an adventure give me a call. I leave Friday for Houston for the big Fishing and Tackle Show at the George Brown Convention Center. This is THE biggest fishing show of the year in the state. It is not a boat show it’s a fishing show. I will urge any anglers that think they are or want to be at the top of the ladder, go check it out. Look for me at the WATERLOO ROD COMPANY booth. See ya. Capt. Joey Farah (361)442-8145
A 6
Island Moon
Letters to Riley
has colorful bags for me and some even have funny cartoons. I'm sure your Parents clean up Riley; now if we can just get the other Parents to cooperate.
I wanted to let you know that I totally agree that we Island Dogs have it made. My parents tell me frequently that I do not own the whole Island, but I know better. I don't get to go out much other than when we travel in our Motor Home. I like the Motor Home; you get to check out a lot of neat places without ever leaving your home. Anyway because I don't travel in the car that much, I get anxiety when I travel thinking that I'm going to the Vet again. My Vet is across the big bridge because when my parents moved here there was not a Vet on the Island. Doc Heaton says I need to take trips to places other than her office and Texas A&M where I also go for treatments periodically. So lately my parents have been taking me to the Sea Wall. It really is a neat place. I enjoy walking and really like the ladies. Unfortunately, we've noticed that some of the Dog Parents are not as well behaved as the Dogs. Most do not clean up after their Dogs. My Mom does not understand; she
The real reason that I am writing, Riley, is that I'm on the "Crap List" and it's all your fault. You see Riley, I have a real sensitive stomach. I only get to eat my Dry WD Dog Food and IAMS Low fat Dog Bones. Anything else and I'm spending way too much time with Doc Heaton over the bridge. Week after week, I read your articles and especially your love for hot dogs. I know I'm a Wienie Dog so enough with the hot dog jokes. Anyway, since reading your articles I've been dreaming of hot dogs. Finally a couple of weeks ago, I sniffed out a hot dog in a plastic bag which was in one of my Mom's Recycle Grocery Bags that was in the garage. She stages all the groceries there and then brings them in to unpack. She had unpacked most of the bags when she noticed I was not in the kitchen and that the hot dog was not in the bag. She found me in the Living Room in the midst of little pieces of plastic. There was no hot dog, no bun; only me and little pieces of plastic wrapper remaining. You are so right; it was heaven! My Mom panicked and called Doc Heaton. I had to take lots of medicine which I hate. My Dad yelled at me and now I'm on the Crap List. Riley, you got me in trouble! I think it best if we both stay away from hot dogs. My Dog Bones really are pretty good. Hope to see you at the Sea Wall and please tell the other dogs to have their parents clean up after them. Until then, woof woof! Mickey
Hey Mickey, Since you can’t eat hotdogs send them to me. I can eat ‘em just fine. I scored a hotdog and several handfuls of treats at the big parade last weekend. My humans were busy and Dr. Christi was hid behind a giant dog and my friend Mark kept slipping me treats then I went to the Back Porch and got two French fries and a chew toy. I was working a nice tourist lady for a piece of her hamburger but my humans saw me and Mayday slipped in there and scooped me. Stoopid Humans!
In case you didn’t hear about it this is National Annoy a Cat Week. If you live with a cat like me make sure to give them a shout out and remind them that they are just cats and we dogs have all the fun. Stoopid Cats! This is a good time to be an Island dog. Nice and cool and plenty of Winter Texans to work for treats. That’s all for now because my nose is already sore from hitting the space bar. If you have any hotdogs left over please send them to the Save the Riley P. Dog Foundations, International Falls, Minnesota. I’ve lost some pounds and I sure need to find them.
Projects continued from A1 Removing vehicles from the beach at the seawall. Island resident Bob Currie, representing property owners on the seawall, asked the ISAC to request a ruling from the City Attorney’s Office as to whether the existing City Resolution, passed by the council in 2008, allows for the closing the of beach to traffic without the inclusion of two traffic lanes and eight parking spaces on the beach as stipulated in the 2008 plan. That plan was approved by voters citywide and the Texas General Land Office but never put into practice due partially to a conflict over who would pay for the wooden bollards, estimated by city staff to cost about $125,000 – about $700 each. City staff said the inclusion of the two lanes of traffic and the parking spaces was impractical due to the fine sand pumped onto the beach for re-nourishment from Packery Channel which would fill in the lanes and parking spaces within hours of being cleared and require crews dedicated specifically for that task – making the plan not cost effective. The request from Currie – which was acted on by the ISAC – was to ask the City Attorney’s Office whether the bollards can be put in place without including the lanes and parking spaces; if so there is no impediment to the immediate placing of the bollards and the closing of the seawall beach to traffic. If not, the plan could still go forward with the bollards in place but likely covered in sand. The move comes as the final chapter in an agreement between the city and seawall property owners in which the property owners bought the land for the construction of the parking lot – which has been open since 2008 – for $479,000 and donated it to the city with the understanding that once it opened traffic would be removed from the beach. The Texas Open Beaches Act requires that for each fifteen feet of beach closed to traffic a parking spot be created within one half mile. The parking lot meets that
criterion, allowing the removal of traffic for the length of the seawall. ISAC Chairperson Gabi Hilpold said once a response is received from the City Attorney she will place the item on the agenda for next month. All Terrain Vehicles on the Beach. Since a state law allowed ATVs on Texas Beaches last year the ISAC has been studying the issue to decide whether to restrict them on beaches inside Corpus Christi City Limits as is already the case in Port Aransas. The question is how to differentiate between those which can travel at a high rate of speed versus those with a maximum speed under 50 mph. The City Attorney’s Office told the ISAC on Monday that there is language in the Texas Transportation Code which defines ‘high speed” versus ‘low speed” off road vehicles. However, Texas law forbids the driving of any ATVs on Texas Roads. Meaning that even if the ‘low speed” vehicles are allowed on city beaches they must be hauled there in other vehicles since they cannot drive down city streets to get there. No decision has been made. SPID/Park Road 22 Water Exchange Bridge. The final design changes are in place and the design has been sent to the Texas Department of Transportation for approval. City Engineer Dan Biles said he expects construction be begin “around the end of the year” and take about eighteen months. The latest design calls for a two forty-foot wide pedestrian and cart paths on each side of the waterway with a fourteen foot boat clearance from the waterline to the underside of the bridge. New Waterline to The Island. Construction on the new$7.1 million (and second) water supply line to The Island is expected to begin in March and be complete by October.
Spring Break Schedule- Texas Universities TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX TX
University of Texas at Austin University of North Texas University of Houston Trinity University Texas State University Texas Christian University Texas A&M University Stephen F. Austin State University Southwestern University Southern Methodist University Sam Houston State University Saint Edward’s University Rice University Northwood University Midwestern State University Baylor University Austin College Abilene Christian University
March 6, 2014
by Dale Rankin
By Riley P. Dog
My name is Kaiser von Michelob or Mick for short. I am a twelve year old Black and Tan Miniature Dachshund. Since you had a friend that was a Doxie, I'm sure you understand the Kaiser which reflects my German heritage and certainly I view myself as an Emperor. The Michelob is because my Dad likes Michelob, for my moves like Jagger, and my big floppy ears. I'm sure there's history behind your name, too, Riley.
Stuff I Heard on the Island
Letter from Mick
Dear Riley P. Dog,
March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 3, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 17, 2014 March 10, 2014 March 17, 2014 March 10, 2014
The year was 2004 and the City of Corpus Christi was working on an Area Development Plan; which was news to The Island. We were part of the area, just not part of the plan. Islanders discovered the existence of the plan when it popped up on a City Council agenda and hastily formed a forty-member group of Islanders to formulate an outline for planning Island development. Bear in mind Packery Channel was approved at that point but not complete. A lot has changed since then but one thing has not. A New and Improved Area Development Plan is currently being formulated with the help of $1.5 million in taxpayer dollars to hire outside consultants. What has not changed is that once again The Island is part of the area just not part of the plan. This became abundantly clear on Monday night as city staffers offered up explanations as to why The Island will not be given a seat at the table until at least 2016 while downtown and the South Side of town both will have advisory groups formed immediately to plan their futures. The reason given Monday was that The Island is already growing and doesn’t need help right now. This reasoning is thin as last week’s soup when you consider that the South Side is the only area of town growing close to the rate of The Island and if no-growth is the threshold for help then why don’t the West Side or the North Side have an advisory group since they are lagging behind the growth curve more than anyone.
Checkbook Oligarchy The criteria to be includes in this Area Development Plan, like the last one, is checkbook driven. The old Corpus Christi oligarchy which has staunched growth in Corpus Christi for decades still runs City Hall with their checkbooks; or at least they think they do. Where this Area Development Plan was/is going is this; in two years the consultants will miraculously discover what the Area needs is a downtown park paid for by taxpayers; not called Destination Bayfront but looking just like it and by then with an Area Development
Plan to backup the claim for funding. Once again Islanders found out about the Area Development Plan when it went to City Council for a final vote and approval of the Downtown and South Side planning committees. My first question: where are the four City Council members who won their races last time with the help of the Island endorsement? Why didn't they go to bat for us, or at least tell us there was a game on? Did they not think we deserved a seat at the table for the next two years while we are the fastest growing part of the city? City Elections are in November. Let's remember who our friends are - and aren't.
So now what? As ISAC Chairman Gabi Hilpold told the staff we will do it ourselves.One third of what is in the 2004 Island Development Plan is obsolete, one third has been done, and one third is still on the table. The first step is to hear from Islanders what should be at the top of the list: turning Whitecap from SPID to the beach into a parkway? How about some landscaping on SPID from the JFK Causeway to Whitecap. The city just spent $6 million fixing up two block or Chaparral Street downtown, think what we could do with that amount on The Island. If we wait two years to start planning it will be too late and it is clear we are going to get no help from our city whose focus is/has been/will always be downtown because that's where the money comes from to fund the three At-Large City Council races and the Mayor's race. How else did we end up with an Area Development Plan that doesn't include the fastest-growing area of the city? Three years from now there will be in access of $100 million available to promote The Island from the Hotel/Motel Tax and sales tax from new development on The Island. We can paddle our own boat and just need to decide which direction we want to go. We don't need help from the city to plan our future, and as it turns out that a good thing; because if the last decade has taught us anything it is that we aren't going to get any.
March 6, 2014
Island Moon
A7
First Friday at the Art Center
Barefoot Skydiving
The Port Aransas Art Center will hold its First Friday Reception March 7th 5:307:30 p.m. at the center.
Jason Towns of Skydive South Texas joined the Barefoot Mardi Gras parade from the sky.
Mary Ann McShane, Realtor, GRI, SRES e-mail: malm335@sbcglobal.net Corpus Christi Realty Group
Live music, light refreshments will be served. This month features work by Tiddle Caylor and an All Member Show. This event features on display-Annual All Member Show Art. Member Artists compete for 1st,2nd & 3rd Place. Also from March 1st thru 29th the Public can vote for 1 piece of art from this exhibit for People’s Choice”. The winning artists are awarded a “Merit Show” in August. The center is located at 323 N. Alsiter in Port Aransas. Phone 361-749-7334.
Considering a move to the Island? Let me help you find your piece of Paradise - waterfront or interior homes, condos, townhouses, lots Considering selling your Island Property? Call me for a free consultation to obtain the current market value along with tips to make your property the one buyers will put on their “must see” list
Island Office (361) 215-8629
Selling dream homes from Port Aransas to Padre Island… amazing sunsets included. Call me and let’s find yours.
Julie Reupke 361-774-5645
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Affordable Canadian Fishing Trips
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& Wine Bar
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Monday, Thursday, Friday 4 pm - 10 pm Saturday Noon - 10 pm Sunday 11 am - 10 pm Closed Tuesday & Wednesday
Island Moon
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STATE
By Todd Hunter, District 32 As mentioned in the previous week's article, the Speaker of the House Joe Straus has released a list of interim committee charges for the standing committees of the Texas House of Representatives. These committee charges and the resulting recommendations that will be developed during the interim, could form the basis for legislation to be considered during the next legislative session. House committees were each given several issues to study. Committee hearings will be held over the course of the interim period (2014) giving the public an opportunity to testify on a variety of issues. At the end of the interim, each committee will have the opportunity to submit a formal report to the Speaker of the Texas House with their recommendations on possible future legislation to be handled by the next Texas Legislature.
Development and Tourism and determine its effectiveness on economic development in Texas. Determine how the office could be more efficiently coordinated with local and regional economic development entities and other state agencies to help further the economic development goals of the state.
The following is a sampling of charges given to different House committees. If you would like a complete list of the study charges or if you would like more information about issues being studied by any particular committee, please don’t hesitate to call my Capitol office at 512-463-0672 or visit The Texas House of Representatives at http://www.house.state. tx.us/.
• Examine online voter registration systems in other states. Study costs and security concerns, weigh the pros and cons of online voter registration, and make recommendations.
House Committee on Economic and Small Business Development • Review the statutes and state agency rules pertaining to public-private partnerships to ensure a fair, competitive, and transparent process that benefits all parties engaging in the partnership. Review how other states and countries utilize public-private partnerships and make recommendations on how to improve the process in Texas, specifically looking at whether there needs to be a single state entity responsible for administering the public private partnership program. • Examine and evaluate economic development incentives to determine if the incentives are achieving the desired outcomes for which the incentives were initially established. Review which economic development goals and incentives are most important and report on methods to further improve those goals and incentives while reducing ones not meeting their desired objectives. • Study venture capital investment in the state and determine how Texas compares to other states in attracting venture capital dollars. Make recommendations to improve Texas's ability in attract venture capital investment. • Review the Governor's Office of Economic
March 6, 2014
History continued from A1
Interim Committee Charges Released for 2104 Interim
Here are some examples of charges given to the standing House committees:
House Committee on Elections • Examine the use of Help America Vote Act funds and methods to ensure the efforts required by the Help America Vote Act continue. • Evaluate the Move Act, specifically the implementation of HB 1129 (83R), relating to a program allowing certain military voters on active duty overseas to cast a ballot electronically.
House Committee on Energy Resources • Study the impact of the expanding oil and gas exploration and production occurring across the state. Included in the study should be both the positive impacts of the exploration and production as well as the new challenges they are presenting. The study should encompass a review of the following issues: a. The effect on the state budget and the Economic Stabilization Fund; b. The overall impact on the state economy; c. The impact on property values and local taxes; d. The effect on roads; e. The impact on local school districts; f. The complex relationship between land owners, royalty owners, and operators; g. The impact on the environment, including emissions and injection wells; h. Projected water needs and how those fit with our state water plan; and i. The housing issues created by the number of workers needed in areas of shale plays. If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. As always, my offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns or comments (Capitol Office, 512-463-0672; District Office, 361-949-4603). Rep. Hunter represents Nueces County (Part). He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house. state.tx.us or at 512-463-0672.
The BACK PORCH
oPEN 7 dAYS + nOON-2AM
arriving on the schooner Comanche brought news of the Alamo's fall, and that:"Crockett and the others tried to surrender, but were told there was no mercy for them." Then there is this account which appeared as appendix to the 1837 book Col. Crockett's Exploits and Adventures in Texas, (this book was sold as being Crockett's diary of his time in Texas, found among the belongings of a Mexican officer at San Jacinto. It was actually written by a Philadelphia newspaper editor): "The battle was desperate until daylight, when only six men belonging to the Texian garrison were found alive. They were instantly surrounded, and ordered, by General Castrillon, to surrender, which they did, under a promise of his protection. Colonel Crockett was of the number...General Castrillon was brave and not cruel, and disposed to save the prisoners. He marched them up to that part of the fort where stood Santa Anna and his murderous crew... Castrillon addressed his excellency, — "Sir, here are six prisoners I have taken alive; how shall I dispose of them?" "Santa Anna looked at Castrillon fiercely, flew into a violent rage, and replied, "Have I not told you before how to dispose of them? Why do you bring them to me?" "Colonel Crockett, seeing the act of treachery, instantly sprang like a tiger at the ruffian chief, but before he could reach him a dozen swords were sheathed in his indomitable heart; and he fell, and died without a groan, a frown on his brow, and a smile of scorn and defiance on his lips." The source of that account was probably a letter written July 19, 1836 by Texian soldier George M. Dolson to his brother in Michigan. The letter was printed in a Detroit newspaper in September of that year. In it Dolson relates how he was asked to translate the statement of a Mexican officer who had been at the Alamo: "He states that on the morning the Alamo was captured, between the hours of five and six o'clock, General Castrillon, who fell at the battle of St. Jacinto, entered the back room of the Alamo, and there found Crockett and five other Americans, who had defended it until defense was useless; they appeared very much agitated when the Mexican soldiers overtook to rush in after their General, but the humane General ordered his men to keep out, and, placing his hand on his breast, said,"Here is a hand and a heart to protect you. Come with me to the General-in-Chief, and you shall be saved." The brave but unfortunate men were marched to the tent of Santa Anna...Santa Anna's interpreter knew Colonel Crockett and said to my informant, "the one behind is the famous Crockett." When brought in the presence of Santa Anna, Castrillon said to him, "Santa Anna, the august, I deliver up to you six brave prisoners of war." Santa Anna replied, "Who has given you orders to take prisoners? I do not want to see those men living - shoot them." As the monster uttered these words each officer turned his face the other way, and the hell-hounds of the tyrant dispatched the six in his presence, and within six feet of his person." Not so fast pilgrim…
But not all eyewitness accounts agree that Crockett was captured.
gave this account:"Returning to the subject of David Crockett, the old Señora said he was one of the first to fall; that he advanced from the Church building towards the wall or rampart running from the end of the stockade, slowly and with great deliberation, without arms, when suddenly a volley was fired by the Mexicans causing him to fall forward on his face, dead." Davy Crockett without arms? That one don't ring true. Then there is this account given to the San Antonio Express in 1889 by by Felix Nuñez, who claimed to have been a veteran of the battle: "He was a tall American of rather dark complexion and had on a long cuera (buck skin coat) and a round cap without any bill, and made of fox skin, with the long tail hanging down his back. This man apparently had a charmed life. Of the many soldiers who took deliberate aim at him and fired, not one ever hit him. On the contrary he never missed a shot. He killed at least eight of our men, besides wounding several others. This fact being observed by a lieutenant who had come in over the wall he sprung at him and dealt him a deadly blow with his sword, just above the right eye, which felled him to the ground and in an instant he was pierced by not less than twenty bayonets. This lieutenant said that if all Americans had killed as many of our men as this one had, our army would have been annihilated before the Alamo could have been taken. He was about the last man that was killed." Finally there is the account of Captain Rafael Soldana of the Tampico Battalion: "A tall man, with flowing hair, was seen firing from the same place on the parapet during the entire siege. He wore a buckskin suit and a cape all of a pattern entirely different from those worn by his comrades. This man would kneel or lie down behind the low parapet, rest his long gun and fire, and we all learned to keep at a good distance when he was seen to make ready to shoot. He rarely missed his mark, and when he fired he always rose to his feet and calmly reloaded his gun seemingly indifferent to the shots fired at him by our own men. He had a strong, resonant voice and often railed at us, but as we did not understand English, we could not comprehend the import of his words further than they were defiant. This man I later learned was called, “Kwockey.” "When the final assault was made upon the walls these men fought like devils. 'Kwockey' was killed in a room of the mission. He stood on the inside to the left of the door and plunged his long knife into the bosom of every soldier that tried to enter. They were powerless to fire upon him because of the fact that he was backed up against the wall and, the doorway being narrow, they could not bring their guns to bear upon him. And, moreover, the pressure from the rear was so great that many near the doorway were forced into the room only to receive a deadly thrust from that long knife." "Finally a well directed shot broke the man's right arm and his hand fell useless at his side. He then seized his long gun with his left hand and leaped toward the center of the room where he could wield the weapon without obstruction, felling every man that came through the doorway. A corporal ordered the passage cleared of those who were being pressed forward, a volley was fired almost point blank and the last defender of the Alamo fell dead."
In an 1890 interview, Madame Candelaria (who may or may not have been at the Alamo)
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The BACK PORCH Bar
The
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132 W. Cotter St. Bar
PortA
Under the Bridge Serving South Texas Seafood for Over 30 Years Open Daily 11:00 - 10:00
Specializing in South Texas Seafood Since 1980 Friday & Saturday Only From 5pm until gone $650 per dozen Daily lunch specials 11-2
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Snoopy’s Scoopy’s
(361) 949-8815 (361) 949-7810
13313 S. Padre Island Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Serving: Padre Island, Flour Bluff, Port Aransas, Mustang Island and Rockport. 9 9 9 9 9 9
Landscape Design h Decks and Docks First Time Cleanups h Shade Structures/ Pergola Demolitions & Scraping h Outdoor Kitchens We install: Plants, Palms, Rock, h Boat Lifts Sod, Pavers and Outdoor Decor. h Fences & Gates Yard Maintenance h General D&D Repair Concrete Drives/Patio & Retaining Walls
We’re your full service outdoor solution! Give us a call today. Tim Arlitt - Decks & Docks Specialist 361.229.2530 Sami Wilson - Landscape Designer 361.949.2691
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