Island moon 8 8 2013 section a for web by Mary Craft

Inside the Moon...

Summerfest 2013 A4

Letters to Riley P. Dog A3

The

Island Moon

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Fish Stories A9

Sea Turtle Report A11

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361-949-7700 editor@islandmoon.com The Island Newspaper since 1996 Facebook : The Island Moon Newspaper

August 8, 2013

Photo courtesy of Island Garden Club

The only Island in Texas with more Wedding Planners than Water Towers

Around The Island

By Dale Rankin editor@islandmoon.com This week in Washington D.C. the U. S. State Department was asked whether Egypt had a coup and issued a statement which read, we have “determined that we do not need to make a determination.” Here’s hoping that approach catches fire in our Nation’s Capital as it seems unequivocal that less determinations from Washington are almost certain to be better than more determinations. In New York City it was found that the city’s headquarters of the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is overrun by bed bugs – doesn’t seem like that would promote mental hygiene but things are bit different in the Big Apple. In Pittsburg a theater where people were watching a Disney movie was evacuated after someone wrote a bomb threat on toilet paper, and in Deer Trail, Colorado the city council is about to declare open season on drone aircraft. So far 157 people have signed up for a $25 “drone hunting license” which would allow them to blast away if they see a drone flying overhead. We Moon Monkeys think such a license would be a big hit on our Island during duck season. Here on The Island two goats were found running loose on Cuttysark, they were herded up with no harm done. Out on the beaches driving conditions are getting worse by the day as the dry weather and wind turn the sand to dust; a turnover in Gulf water has brought cool water up and fishing to a halt from the beaches (actually “fishing” is fine but “catching” is a problem), and the Island Moon Traffic Department has begun issuing semi-hourly traffic reports each weekend on our Facebook page theislandmoonnewspaper for SPID between Commodores and the JFK. The bad news is that the reports began last weekend during the first weekend of the CCPD Crackdown on Aggressive Drivers when two police cars collided there and backed up traffic, but not for very long. The Moon Traffic Department reports that it looked like a NASCAR pit stop as the cop-on-cop smash up was cleared in record time. The good news is that we are now well into August and so far have not had a real Hurricane Scare, so we got that going for us.

Almost time to exhale We have two more weekends before all the kids are back in school so expect big weekend crowds through Labor Day. Last week the Invading Tourist Horde was a bit smaller than the week before. Traffic coming in from Port Aransas in the evenings was lighter than what has been usual of late, however, the badly-timed stop light at SH 361 and SPID continues to stack up northbound SPID traffic from Commodores to Whitecap in the afternoon. If you are headed OTB in the late afternoon on a weekend take the Aquarius Bypass to avoid the crowd.

Next Publication Date: 8/15/2013

Zoning Requested for 46-Acre RV Park Along SPID A developer has applied with the City of Corpus Christi’s City Planning Commission to change the zoning on 46 acres of land bordering SPID near Packery Channel, just south of the JFK Causeway that would allow him to build a 140-pad park for recreational vehicles, according to an official with the commission office. Signs notifying the public of the request for a zoning change went up last week.

By Mary Craft

According to the official the requested change would rezone the land, located inside the Island Overlay Zone, from “CR-2IO Resort Commercial District with an Island Overlay” to “RV/IO Recreational Vehicle Park District with an Island Overlay, not resulting in a change to the Future Land Use Plan.” The request for the zoning change was made by Golden Pointe, LLC. The request for the zoning change will go before the City Planning Commission at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 14, in City Council Chambers. The commission is expected to make a recommendation on whether to approve the request. The request then may go before the Island Strategic Action Committee for review, before it goes the City Council for a final decision. No further details on what type of park, or other business might be built at the site were available at press time.

On “Trial”

One of the Fabulous Teachers on the Island By Brent Rourk I cannot recall when I met her because the exact day and time escapes my fragile memory.

We’ve been telling you about the ongoing saga of the house over on Cuttysark which keeps getting rented on Craigslist; the problem of course is that the fellow in Nigeria who keeps renting it out doesn’t tell the “renter” that someone is living in the house and it is for sale not for rent. After half a dozen or so “renters” showed up the real estate company finally took matters into their own hands and put up a sign stating that the house is not for rent. Not sure if that guy can see it all the way from Nigeria. A woman was attacked this week while sitting in her car near Horace Caldwell Pier in Port Aransas. She managed to get away but was injured. The question that is being asked is whether this attack is related to a similar attack on Tara Truett which happened near the South Packery Jetty on the July 4th weekend. We have spoken to both CCPD and Port Aransas PD and both say there is no reason to believe they are related. No arrest has been made in either case. Both women remain hospitalized.

Island Moon ArtWalk Don’t forget the Island Moon ArtWalk on the seawall on August 17th and 18th. We’ll see you there. In the meantime say hello if you see us Around The Island.

Texas Sealife Center Now Open on the Island

By Dale Rankin

I’ll throw in the Harbor Bridge

Serious questions

Year 16, Issue 486

Facebook: The Island Moon Newspaper

Texas Sealife Center & Wildlife Gallery Gift Shop is now open in the old Visitor’s Center across from Subway on SPID. The building was acquired in March and the gift shop opened to the public in June. Executive Director of the animal rehabilitation center is veterinarian Dr. Tim Tristan who currently has an office in Rockport. Veterinarian Technician Amanda Terry is Director of Rehabilitation and is currently working the ARK in Port A. They are working on permits and hope to be able to start bringing in animals in September. They are currently looking for volunteers and applications are available at the Center. The

orientation for the volunteers will be on Sunday August 11th noon – 2 pm. The rehab portion of the building has a surgical suite, a turtle tank and an area of bird cages. Behind the building there will be a large flight cage. Cheasare is currently running the gift shop where they have many consignment works of art by local artists. They also have T-shirts, stuffed animals, ceramic turtle hatchlings that are made there and jewelry. The center will also have interactive educational programs for kids. They are open 10 am – 4 pm and Sundays noon – 4 pm and closed Monday and Tuesday.

Boat Building 101

A Landlubber Builds His Own Wooden Farley Boat

By Joe Calvey, Sr. Walking into the Farley Boat Works for the first time in 2012 wasn’t too difficult. Several men were gathered around the wooden frame of a boat in its early stages. Each looked up and either said hello or nodded with a smile. Without any woodworking skills outside of cutting the occasional 2x4 or sanding and staining a it was a leap of faith taking those first steps Barney Farley (L) Darell Lyn (C) Pat Farley (R) wrap the side into the inner sanctum of a board on the tarpon boat to test the fitting. wooden boat building shop. centered on the steps that would be taken in The men were standing with their arms resting on the mahogany gunwales the days ahead to complete the transformation and the conversation was relaxed. The talk from project to a sea worthy Farley skiff. I had learned about the shop after dropping into the Port Aransas Museum and like a moth to a flame there I was.

The Aransas Rose

Farley Boat Works Shop Master Darrel Lynn looks over a center console skiff nearing completion.

I took a spot along the boat and cautiously placed one hand on the boat as I listened. A fellow named Pat extended his hand and introduced himself as did Curly, Chuck, Denny and Charlie. From somewhere a tape measure was extended out to the end of the boat where I was and I grabbed the end and held it where one of the fellows pointed. The group apparently decided on the next course of action as each fellow headed off to a Boat continued on A4

Island Under Construction I do know that it was in August, 2006. It seems it was upstairs in the old Dairy Queen store on the island that had been somewhat transformed to become a part of Seashore Learning Center and subsequently became a vital part of the first year of Seashore Middle Academy. Energetic, kind, and with a ready smile, she quickly paced around the room that was going to be our classroom for the year with a whirlwind of dust trailing her. She would teach Language Arts to 6th and 7th graders and I would teach one class of High School Spanish and also tutor students who needed math help. She had an aura of kindness about her, also a powerful and contagious case of enthusiasm, and she seemed to be able to multi-task quite fluidly. The white board was covered with schedules, Teacher continued on A12

Demand for housing and work at the Schlitterbahn park are keeping workers busy these days. The apartments on Granada which have been empty and in disrepair for several years are now about halfway through a refurbishment project. On Compass, the apartments which were about to be torn down are being refurbished

to accommodate workers at the Schlitterbahn park. And the Padre Isles Country Club headquarters work has begun on a new section on the west side of the building. Not pictured, Alex Harris has begun work on a town home development on Nemo Court.

Island Moon

A 2

August

2013

August Bag Heroes

Skip the Plastic is pleased to announce our August Bag Heroes, the Texas Sealife Center. The Center’s mission includes rescuing injured or stranded coastal and aquatic wildlife for release wildlife back into their natural habitat and promoting public awareness in conservation efforts to save wildlife. Part of their message focuses on bringing your own bag when shopping so fewer plastic bags end up in the coastal environment.

JOHNNY D’S •

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roaming Packery Channel Park and apparently has been there for four or five days. A nice lady who lives in that neighborhood is sheltering her until her humans can be found. If you know who her people are please call Johanna at 361-774-9246.

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They look like white birds from a distance, but once you get up close to this covey of plastic bags near the Packery Channel Bridge it is clear they are just flying bags that have roosted there. No matter how many times they are cleared out new ones seem to take their place in a hurry.

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The new cabanas at the pool at Padre Isles Country Club are keeping things cool.

Red Tail Hawk Learns to Fly

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Guy David (left) and friends took this Red Tail Hawk to Aquarius Park to get him ready for release. When birds have been in rehab for a period of time they must get back into flying shape before they can be released. The process involves tethering them to a fishing line and letting them fly several hundred feet until they can be released. This guy is just about ready to be put back into the wild.

August 8, 2013

Island Moon

Letters to Riley

My human saw this book, “Dieting Causes Brain Damage” in the lunch room at her office. I think you need to show this to your human. The picture of the bug-eyed dog on the book jacket is proof that

Stuff I Heard on the Island

you could get brain damage if you don’t get more hot dogs or cat food. I tried to sneak a hot dog in the email but my human caught me. Stoopid humans! Just thought you might need this ammunition.

The City of Corpus Christi’s new budget is out. It shows total spending at $763,824,318 including taxes and bonds. The tax rate remains the same as the current which, accompanied by an increase in property value of 5% will bring the city an additional $2.6 million, of which about half is a property tax increase. The other half of that $2.6 million comes from property tax on new construction which, along with bonds, is exempted from the number used to calculate tax increases.

Island Yorkie

While the budget language takes great pains to avoid saying so, the City Council, according to the definition in state law, is raising property tax about 4%. All told, property owners will pay $570 for each $100,000 of assessed value in city taxes and property taxes will raise $55.4 million with the remainder coming from fees, sales tax, and other city revenue streams.

Stoopid cats. Then I went downstairs and my human had left her yoga mat on the floor so I slept on it for a while and then I peed on it. It’s the first time I’ve ever done that but I was a Dad Mog with drane bamage from being on a diet too long and I figured I was gonna get in trouble for eating all the catfood so why not go for the Double Whammy and I let fly? If I could have found a shoe to chew up I would have gone for the Trifecta but there weren’t any

The city’s Ad valorem and bond tax load combined is in about the middle of the pack for Texas cities as is the sales tax burden. Much of the increase in the budget is for wage increases to police, fire, and other city personnel. Sworn police officers are getting a

Including property tax and bond fees the budget will rise by $5,827,519; $3.1 million of that is to pay for bonds, and $2.6 goes into the General Fund.

Dixie

Thank you Dixie. I told my humans that this diet is giving me drane bamage but they don’t listen to me. So this week I took matters in my hown ands. My humans left me home because they said it was too hot to leave me in the car and they went to the Back Porch without me. I know because my friend Mayday called and told me he saw them there. So while they were gone I sneaked up the stairs and ate all the catfood. The cats have one of those feeders with a bowl at the bottom that refills itself from a square thing that sticks up in the air that is full of replacement food. Sometimes when I eat the food in the bowl the feeder forgets to rebowl the fill and I have to hit it with my nose to make the food dall fown. I ate the whole thing. I sure did. When it forgets to refill itself the cats run to the humans and start complaining, but I just hit it with my nose and I get all the food.

4% increase – which is expected to result in an estimated 40 officers retiring once the new budget is adopted since their pension is a based on their pay at the time of retirement.

On top of that sales tax revenue is up 9% over Sworn Fire personnel will get a 2% increase last year and is expected to rise another 5% as well as other city employees. The total cost next year. This amounts to an increase of $4.6 of the raises is $3.2 million. About 1% of the million in addition to the property tax increase. city’s total population works for the city, which The new budget also increases the gas rate by is in the middle of the pack when compared to 2.5%, waste water fund by 8.6%, and the water other cities around the state.

around. I hope the catfood reverses my drane bamage for a while but I dunno. I’ve been on this diet a long time and I still got some pounds to go before Dr. Christi puts me back on hotdogs and catfood full time. Humans are sneakier than dogs when it comes to mailing stuff, Dixie. I don’t know why but they are. Part of the problem is that the mail gets dropped off at our office in a box that is too high for me to get to so every time a hotdog comes in they get it first. Hoopid Stumans! Maybe if you send it Dog To Dog by Eederal Fxpress I could sign for it. That picture of that Bug Eyed Dog is pretty scary Dixie. I hope my eyes don’t bug out but every time I raid the catfood those cats run and tell my humans. Coopid Sats!

The BACK PORCH oPEN 7 dAYS + nOON-2AM Live Music

Aug. 8 The Dust Devils Aug. 9 BACK PORCH Miss Neesie & Earfood Aug. 10 Bar Tanner Louis Aug. 15 Aloha Dave

Ruben V

Aug. 16

Geronimo Treveno

Aug. 17

The

rates by 6.9% to residential users and 8.3% to All told, police and fire protection will about commercial users. $212 million. Here is a history of the fluctuations in the tax rate charged per $100.

So there you have it.

New Members of Island United Political Action Committee Board of Directors

The Island United Political Action Committee was formed in 2008 to unite the Island’s 6200 registered voters behind endorsed candidates in the races for the Corpus Christi City Council. Since that time the PAC has endorsed five candidates in each city election; Mayor, District 4 City Council, three At-Large council candidates. Of those, all but three have won their races. The endorsement process allows each registered voter on The Island to cast a vote for the candidate of their choice in each race. Each July PAC members also vote on changes to the 11-member PAC Board of Directors. Here are the new PAC board members for this year.

Rhonda Beadle – Director of Education at Sylvan Learning Center in Corpus Christi. She is an educator with experience teaching students ranging from those with special needs to those who are gifted and talented. In addition to 12 years of teaching, Rhonda has written curriculum, presented educational workshops, and owned a business. lived on the Island for 9 years, and looks forward to becoming more actively involved in the community and hopes to promote community activities for the youth on the Island. Jim Gaugler – Visiting Lecturer at Texas A&M University-Kingsville in the Department of Management and Marketing; and is the Treasurer for the Padre Island Yacht Club. Jim is a long-time Island resident. Victoria Munt Rogers – Real estate agent at Coastline Properties. She also serves on

TREPAC and the Housing Opportunity Task Force. Prior to entering real estate, she created and published Gulfscapes Magazine - a finer things in life magazine for the Gulf Coast. For fun she serves as the Padre Island Yacht Club (PIYC) Communications Director, is a Padre Island Muse, and is a member of the Parrotheads of Port A. Brent Rourk – Educator, photographer, writer, and traveler. Brent has lived on the Island for almost 8 years. He teaches at Seashore Middle Academy, is a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, owns a family/wedding photography and notecard business, writes and provides photography for the Island Moon Newspaper and Corpus Christi Magazine, and is a wedding officiant. He is also a member of Padre Island Kiwanis Club and the PIYC. Linda Walsh - Came to Island in 2004 from Washington, D.C. She arrived in semiretirement, but soon opened Island Glass Masters, and Island Shutters. Past President and Board Member of PI Rotary. Served on PIBA Board for several years, and was one of the original founders of the Island United PAC. She had to return to Washington, D.C. for business purposes for 4 years, but returned to the Island in 2012, retired and ready to get back into volunteer work.

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By Riley P. Dog

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A 4

Boat continued from A1

Island Moon

different part of the shop. “You here to build a boat?” asked Charlie who I would learn was Charlie Fisher the local harbormaster at the Dennis Dreyer Marina. Before I could stutter out anything intelligible Charlie started explaining what was being done to the boat I would later learn was the Aransas Rose. A boat built on the design that Texans had perfected along the coast for about 100 years.

August 8, 2013

Island Moon The Voice of the Island for 14 Years

WHERE THE LOCALS SHOP

The boat was 16-feet long by 4-feet wide with two bench seats. An outboard would mount on the transom to power the craft I was informed. “We don’t really have any plans to follow so we are kind of flying by the seat of our pants with this one” Charlie said. About that time Pat returned “Joe, right? I’m Pat Farley. I got to take off, hope to see you again.”

at the Esplande

Charlie went about measuring and thinking out loud so I asked what it took to build a boat. He pointed to a chalk board where people wrote their names to get in line. There were four names there already. Next I learned there was a group of volunteers to assist in the boat building. “The idea is to have some kits to assemble so when An original Milina boat built by Bubba Milina someone comes in they can sort of take over with help and complete a boat without behind the museum and the boat shop had a having any boat building experience.” Charlie salvage job on an old boat made by lifelong said. “At least that is sort of what has been Islander, boat builder and fishing guide Bubba kicking around for ideas.” Milina. Back when phone service first arrived on Mustang Island Bubba’s phone number only What kind of boat would you like to had two digits. Now in his mid 90’s Bubba is a build? regular fixture at Farley Boat Works. But he’s The relaxed atmosphere of the shop was not there just for the tourists to see an authentic apparent by the easygoing manner in which Old Sea Salt, no way, Bubba just recently built each person interacted with one another. So another boat. when Charlie asked “So what kind of boat do Boat builders have good memories you want to build?” I felt brave enough respond As fall 2012 gave way and Winter Texans “Oh, one like this, just not pink, I’d like to build descended on The Island Farley Boat Works one with my teenage son, Joey.” saw its volunteer force swell to as many as 25 wood workers. My health took a turn for the worse and for several months I was unable to drop in. During that time more than a dozen boats were completed. Texas skiffs, peapods and tenders were all built. New shop equipment arrived and new materials for the boat builds were chosen. Darrel Lynn was hired as Chief Boat Builder and then someone cleaned the chalk board. So when I walked in before the summer began and met Darrel the first thing I noticed was my familiar place on the chalk board was empty. After a few pleasantries and small talk about boats I broached the subject prepared to get a song and dance why we would have to go back on the now year long waiting list. Darrel Lynn is a boat builder. Boat builders have damn good memories. The ability to recall even the smallest details can make the difference in a successful boat build. Darrel The Aransas Rose and a flounder skiff during construction looked at me like I was an alien from Mars. He adjusted his and painting. glasses and asked me to step into his office. Since we were The Aransas Rose was sold at an auction to the only people there I knew it wasn’t so he benefit the museum and its effort to return boat could deliver the bad news out of ear shot from building to Port Aransas. It would have not one anyone else. but four shades of pink as the winning bidders, “How do you spell your last name?” Darrel Bobby and Sharri Patton, had bought it for their daughter. “Well, you better put your name on asked. As I told him he started typing into a the board” one of the nearby fellows offered. spreadsheet displayed on his computer monitor. There were about half a dozen names and each “All right, you are good to go the first week of one had a different project following it. I wrote August.” He said still looking at the monitor. my name and for the boat project I simply put “Next year?” I asked. Summer 2013. “No, this year. This August. I remembered Over the ensuing months I would stop in you were on the board I just didn’t know what whenever I was in town, each time getting a happened to you.” He said grinning. glimpse of yet another boat project moving In the next installment our boat build begins. through the shop. Rick Pratt the driving force

Summerfest 2013

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The second week of Summerfest kicks off at 6:30 p.m. this Saturday at Sharkys in Port Aransas. The first show was last weekend with the Fabulous Thunderbirds and this week Island favorite Larry Joe Taylor will open the show for headliner Joe Ely and his band. For more information on Ely see Ronnie Narmour’s column in this issue. Bring lawn chairs but no coolers for this one, as refreshments are available at the venue.

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August 8, 2013

STATE

Island Moon

Back to School Means Sales Tax Holiday By Todd Hunter, District 32 Back-to-school is right around the corner which means the arrival of Texas’ annual Sales Tax Holiday. From August 9-11, shoppers will pay no state or local sales tax on many schools supplies, school backpacks and most clothing and shoes priced under $100. Lay-away plans can also be used to take advantage of the sales tax holiday. In addition to lay-away plans, individuals can also use rain checks. It is important however to remember that individuals can use a rain check during the tax free weekend regardless of when it was issued and receive the tax exemption, but rain checks that are issued during the tax free weekend cannot be used after August 11th if you wish to receive the tax exemption. The tax holiday weekend has been an annual event since 1999. This year, Texas Comptroller Susan Combs predicts shoppers will save $78.9 million in state and local sales taxes during the holiday. As in previous years, the law exempts most clothing and footwear priced under $100 from sales and use taxes, which could save shoppers about $8 on every $100 they spend. Backpacks under $100 and used by elementary and secondary students are also exempt. The backpack exemption also includes backpacks with wheels, provided they can also be worn on the back like a traditional backpack, and messenger bags. The exemption does not include items that are reasonably defined as luggage, briefcases, athletic/duffle/gym bags,

computer bags, purses or framed backpacks. As in years past, in addition to clothes, footwear and some backpacks, Texas families also get a sales tax break on most school supplies priced at less than $100 purchased for use by a student in an elementary or secondary school. No exemption certificate is required for holiday purchases - with one exception. If the purchaser is buying the supplies under a business account, the retailer must obtain an exemption certificate from the purchaser certifying that the items are purchased for use by an elementary or secondary school student. “Under a business account” means the purchaser is using a business credit card or business check rather than a personal credit card or personal check. HAs a cautionary note, companies are not allowed to advertise that they will pay the sales tax on items that do not qualify for the tax exemption, but they may however advertise that the price includes sales tax. To assist families who are planning to take advantage of the savings, the Comptroller’s website provides complete lists of tax-free apparel and school supplies. Theses lists can be found online at www.TexasTaxHoliday.org .

Rep. Hunter represents Nueces (Part). He can be contacted at todd.hunter@house. state.tx.us or at 512-463-0672.

Island University to Study a Problem that Could Eventually Put Corpus Christi Underwater Air pollution could put Corpus Christi, and many other Texas coastal towns, partly underwater by the end of this century according to a report on sea level rise released this week. A study published in the online journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on Monday, forecasted a 4-foot sea-level rise by the year 2100 due to climate change. This study says the climate change is brought on by greenhouse gas and that even if emissions stopped today, the sea level would still go up. It is because carbon dioxide settles in the atmosphere for hundreds of years and contributes to the loss of Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets and to higher temperatures. If the predictions of the study are accurate, it would put 25 percent of Corpus Christi underwater.

Parts of the Texas coast are already seeing the effects of sea level rise which has prompted a study of the issue. Since 1908, the tide gauge at Pier 21 on Galveston Island has recorded a rise in relative sea level of about two feet. This phenomenon makes Houston and the surrounding areas more vulnerable to damage from hurricanes and other environmental changes. It also creates a concern for the fast-growing population in the Upper Texas coastal region who may find their homes and businesses literally at the water’s edge. The Houston Endowment has given the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi a $790,000 grant to map and evaluate the effects of sea level rise on the Upper Texas Coast. The study will assess the growing vulnerability of Houston and its surrounding counties to the adverse consequences of sea level rise.

Harriet Millin

Longtime Islander Harriet Mullin, 90, passed away this week. Mullin and her husband moved to The Island from San Diego in the early 1980s and for many years took care of the cul-de-sac on Tajamar. Harriet was reported missing Monday night by her daughter and police began an intensive search of the area with K9 units, boats, a scuba team, and a helicopter from the Texas Department of Public Safety. The scuba team found her body in a canal near her home. Along with her husband she took daily walks around The Island. Her daughter told police that Ms. Mullin suffered from Alzheimer’s disease and sometime became disoriented. Foul play is not suspected in the death.

Our condolences go out to her family and many friends on The Island.

Business Briefs by Mary Craft

New Advertisers The Island Moon Dee-Scoveries Author Devorah Fox has written two books available at Amazon.com. The Lost King and The King’s Ransom describe a captivating saga of crippling loss and the struggle for redemption. Big Moving Sale at 14237 Sea Pines Friday, August 9th 10 am – 6 pm and Saturday 8 am – noon. Beach bikes with hauler, two year old refrigerator for $250, golf pull carts and much more. Large Garage Sale in Port A at 315 Laurel Street Saturday, August 10th 8 am – 1 pm.

Business Briefs Schlitterbahn Social Membership is only $59/month and includes access to the fitness center, tennis courts, heated pool, members only parking, separate dining area, sand volleyball court, reduced park fees and 10 % off breakfast and lunch. Obviously some of these perks are when the resort is closer to completion. The above with golf included is $159 cart fee not included. MikelMay’s Beachside Bar & Grill at Bob Hall Pier will be opening at 4 pm Friday, August 9th with a full bar and appetizers. They will have live music all weekend with the

Deadbeats performing Saturday 6 pm – 10 pm. The restaurant next door will be opening next month. The Texas Sealife Center and Wildlife Wilderness Gallery Gift Shop is now open in the old visitor’s center across from Subway on SPID. Animals will start being brought in for rehab starting next month. It is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. See front page for full story. The No U-turn signs at SPID and Jackfish near Whataburger have been replaced with Yield Signs. Of course most ignored those signs so really not much has changed. Padre Island Business Mixer will be at The Office Lounge Tuesday, August 20th 5:30 – 7:30 pm and hosted by D & D Decks & Docks. Everyone is welcome! Port A Summer Fest at Sharkey’s will have Larry Joe Taylor and Joe Ely Saturday, August 10th. Gates open at 7:30 pm and music starts at 8 pm. Tickets are $25 at the gate or $20 in advance at pasumfest.com. The Boathouse Bar & Grill has live entertainment every weekend. DJ Johnny Hotcakes will be there Friday August 9th 9pm1am, DJ Natural on Saturday and DJ Erik at Sunday Brunch 1 pm – 5 pm with food served starting at 10 am.. Enjoy happy hour food and drink specialson weekdays 3-7 pm with $2.50 pints and A$3 wine.

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Island Moon

A 6

Letters to the editor

Moon Monkeys

ISAC

Mike Ellis, Founder

Car Break-in

Island Moon,

What is the Island Strategic Action Committee about? Is it open to the public? Di Johnson Editor’s note: The Island Strategic Action Committee is an advisory committee to the Corpus Christi City Council. Its purpose is to review and offer recommendations to the council on issues that affect The Island. It was formed in 2010 and its members are appointed by the city council and any Island resident is eligible to serve. Since its inception the city council has made it policy that the council will not take a vote on any Island issue or project until it has been reviewed by the ISAC.

Distribution Pete Alsop Island Delivery Coldwell Banker Advertising

The ISAC usually meets at the Padre Isles Country Club at 5:30 on the first Tuesday of each month and members of the city staff attend to answer questions and update the members on the status of Island projects. Note: this month’s meeting has been postponed until Tuesday, August 13, 5:30 p.m. at the country club.

Jan Park Rankin Patrick Kelliher Office Lisa Towns Classifieds Arlene Ritley

All meetings are open to the pubic. Anyone wishing to speak on a specific topic may do so at the beginning of each meeting. However, under Open Meetings rules members cannot comment about items not on the current agenda. Any citizen who wishes to have an item considered by the ISAC may attend the meeting and state their request and the item will be placed on the agenda for the next meeting at which time the city staff will be asked to give an overview of the topic and the ISAC members may vote on a recommendation to present to the city council.

Design/Layout Jeff Craft Contributing Writers Joey Farah Devorah Fox Mary Craft Maybeth Christiansen Jay Gardner Todd Hunter Danniece Bobeché

Our friend from out of town had his driver’s side window broken out last night in front of our home on Topsail. His car was locked and parked directly in front of our house. They stole everything that was in the center console. Nothing was sitting out inside the vehicle to tempt them, seems like a kid smash and grab type of thing. Andrea Holley

Praise Island Moon, Well done, informative, helpful & enjoyable publication. I’m hooked. Kudos to a great staff!! Roz Josephs Ferrell Dear Moon, Love your paper! Read for first time this summer when we were on vacation in Port A. How can we get it mailed to us in Oklahoma? Vicki Cox Editor’s note: Thanks Vicki. The wonderful post office charges us $1.32 per copy to mail so it’s kind of cost prohibiting to mail. We do post the newspaper here on this site every week for free. You can even scroll down on this page and read every issue back to January of 2012 too!

Have your Say Send a letter to the Moon at editor@islandmoon.com, It’s your Island, get involved.

The current members of the ISAC are:

Ronnie Narmour

Chair: Gabriele (Gabi) Hilpold, John White, Sr., Charles Mader, William Goldston, Paul Schexnailder, Greg Smith, J.J. Hart, Jyoti Rakesh Patel, Alex Harris, Jodi Steen, Ralph Tapscott, Stan Hulse, Rick Sowash.

Brent Rourk Dr. Donna Shaver Photographers Miles Merwin

Ex-officio (non-voting) members are: Jay Gardner, Keith Arnold, Bryan Gulley, and Wes Pierson.

Jeff Dolan Mary Craft

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 Port Aransas Lisabella’s Restaurant 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

Back Porch Woody’s Sports Center Shorty’s Place The Flat’s Lounge Giggity’s Stripes @ Cotter & Station

Island Farmer’s Market Come see us this Saturday from 8:00-11:00am at The Island Presbyterian Church, 14030 Fortuna Bay. In an attempt to stay cool, our vendors will be setting up on the side of the church. From the Garden will be there with tons of fresh yard eggs, peppers and swiss chard, and they may bring a surprise. DDD will also be there with natural dog treats and yummy dried spices! Be sure to stop by!! Thank you again for your continued support of our Island Farmers’ Market!! - Kelli

Port Aransas Police have confirmed that a woman was attacked while sitting in her car near Horace Caldwell Pier in Port Aransas at around 2:45 a.m. Tuesday morning. Police say that her injuries were minor but she was taken to Northshore Hospital. There is no word on her condition and apparently she could not describe her attacker. Thanks to KRIS Television for helping to confirm the initial reports.

BOTH OF THESE BABIES ARE FULLY SPONSORED!! Adoption fees are waived with an approved application. The Island Moon Newspaper and an anonymous donor have graciously offered to sponsor the adoption of these two baby husky mixes, Lil Girl and BooBoo (male). They are 3 1/2 months old and SO very sweet. Our pictures do not do them justice...one look in their beautiful eyes and your heart will melt! They will, of course, be spayed/neutered and have all rounds of shots. If you would love these babies forever, please fill out an application here http://www. guardiansrescue.org/adoptions/dog-adoption/.

Wedding Planner Arrested in Amherst, New York The Corpus Christi Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit was advised that wedding planner Justin Lee Olle had been arrested Tuesday evening by the Village of Amherst Police Department (New York) on a Theft warrant.

Paradise Pond Volunteers

Olle, who owned a wedding planning business named Justin Lee Designs, is under investigation after numerous complaints were filed with the Corpus Christi Police Department.

Greetings! We are looking for volunteers to help improve the habitat at Paradise Pond. The Parks and Recreation Dept. has been working on cutting and removing Brazilian Pepper trees, but there is another problem with morning glory vines overtaking willow trees. They are completely covering and pulling down the small trees, eventually killing them.

If you are a victim please ensure that you have filed a police report and provided all the necessary documentation to Detective Mathews, of the Financial Crimes Division, no later than August 22, 2013.

If you would like to help out for an hour or two to pull out these aggressive vines, along with any small Pepper tree saplings, plan on meeting Tuesday, Aug. 6 at 6:00 p.m. Evenings are much cooler for working, but bring water anyway. Plan to wear boots or closed-toe shoes (for ants and other critters), and long-sleeves and long pants. The mosquitoes have been very friendly lately! Garden gloves are also advised. Carpooling might be advisable as well, as there is limited parking nearby. With fall quickly approaching, this is a great time to spruce up Paradise Pond by improving the habitat for all the fall migrants (and all the fall birders). juliefindley@utexas.edu,

15200 block Windward 10:15 a.m. August 4 Theft from building $500-$1500 14800 block Windward 4:24 p.m. August 2 Burglary of vehicle/criminal mischief 15300 block SPID 8:32 a.m. August 1 Gasoline theft 15200 block SPID 4 p.m. July 31 Theft $50-$500 13900 block Lighthouse Dr. 9:42 p.m. August 4 Theft $500-$1500 13800 block Topsail 8 p.m. August 1 Burglary of vehicle 14800 block Cobo De Bara 10 a.m. August 3 Burglary of habitation 15800 block Cuttysark 9 p.m. July 29 Theft $1,500-$20,000/Assault with injury 15800 block SPID 3:54 a.m. August 3 Theft of firearm Beach Marker 240 Nueces/Kleberg County Line Possession of alcoholic beverage in motor vehicle/curfew for minors/possession of marijuana/possession of drug paraphernalia/curfew inducing Sand Dollar/Verdemar 10 p.m. August 4 Burglary from vehicle 14400 block Compass 8:24 a.m. August 5 Burglary from vehicle

Island Police Calls

13900 block Ketch 12:08 p.m. August 5 Credit card abuse

9300 block SH 361 3:30 p.m. August 2 Burglary from vehicle

14300 Cruiser 9:15 August 4 Criminal mischief

10900 block SH 361 7 p.m. July 30 Burglary from vehicle

15200 block Leeward 2:14 a.m. August 5 Public intoxication

Beach Marker 203 7:40 p.m. August 3 Assault/Aggravated Assault with Deadly Weapon

15200 block Windward `12:05 a.m. August 5 Public intoxication

Gulf Beach north of Zahn Road 7:17 p.m. August 3 Reckless damage of destruction 14800 block Leeward 10 p.m. August 1

or text at 361-947-4343

15200 block Windward 12:05 a.m. August 5 public intoxication/possession of marijuana

The Nueces County Sheriff’s Department will handle the extradition of Olle to Corpus Christi.

Beach Marker 207 12:04 a.m. July 29 Public intoxication

Julie Findley

Burglary of a vehicle

14800 block Windward 8 p.m. August 4 Burglary of motor vehicle 15200 block Windward 10:15 a.m. August 4 Theft from building $500-$1500 16500 block SPID 10 a.m. August 4 Burglary from vehicle/Credit card abuse

Holiday Inn Texas Star (Shell) Jesse’s Liquor Padre Isles Country Club

Subway

Duckworth Antiques

First Assistant City Attorney Alison Logan said, “We have always been confident that all actions taken by the City in this case were pursuant to the laws of the state. The City Council was right all along.”

Island Italian

Wash Board Laundry Mat

Chamber of Commerce

In 2011, former City Councilman Mike Hummell filed a lawsuit asking the City to stop moving forward with the Padre Island road project claiming it deviated from what voters approved in 2008. Some residents living along Aquarius Street hired Hummell, a local attorney; because they were upset about the scope of the project and worried it would bring more traffic into their neighborhood.

Ace Hardware

Scuttlebutt’s Restaurant

Public Library

The Court of Appeals, 13th District of Texas, has handed down a judgment in the Aquarius Street project. The court ruled in the City’s favor and declared the Aquarius Street project was included in the 2008 bond issuance. The court also ruled the plaintiffs who sued the City were not entitled to any relief.

Isle Mail N More

San Juan’s Taqueria

Port A Parks and Rec

Court of Appeals Rules in Favor of City in Padre Island Road Project

Assault in Port A, Wedding Planner Scammer Arrested

Office Security/Spillage Control Editor/Publisher/Spillage Control Supervisor

August 8, 2013

Police Blotter

Adopt a Dog

Riley P. Dog

Island Tire And all Moon retail advertisers

GIFTS CERTIFICATES AVALIABLE

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WB Liquor

Flour Bluff H.E.B.

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Police Station

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August 8, 2013

Island Moon

Angler’s Alley

On the Rocks

Dinah Bowman Original “Grand Slam”

By Jay Gardner

(Redfish, Trout & Flounder)

40” X 56”

Originally $3500, sacrifice for $2200. (361)949-0633 Making new friends at Hammons Market

Fishing Tournaments Majek Owners Tournament — August 9th - 10th, 2013 HT-3 Qualifying Tournament — August 16th - 17th, 2013 Texas Women Angler’s Tournament — August 23rd - 25th, 2013

I can’t take it anymore! I’m getting out of town! This wind just won’t stop blowing, and basically, if you won’t fish in the wind around here, you’ll never fish. Its just about that simple. Time to get out there and hit it.

went past the barb. I can’t emphasize enough the importance of carrying bolt cutters to go through those hooks, cutting hooks out of sharks’ mouths, cutting heavy leaders, and just generally getting you out of messes that your little fishing pliers won’t get through. Go get a set TODAY.

So, I’m packing up this week and headed down the sand this weekend unless there’s a national disaster. I’m headed down to the Mansfield jetty on the south end of the beach to chase those silly tarpon. I hope there’s a few around to mess with. And just to tempt fate and the windmachine, I’ll pack the fly rod just to make sure the wind blows 35MPH. Maybe I can muster enough superstition to jinx the whole trip, LOL.

Trash bags. I run around with a box of trash bags in the truck, right alongside a box of gallon ziplocks (which are darn handy too).

As I’m getting ready and packing, I figured I would share with you loyal readers a few necessities for heading down the Island. There are a few things you can take with you that will greatly enhance your beach experience. The first thing that comes to mind is baby powder. Use it at night, and you’ll thank me. Those compression shorts (look like bicycle shorts with no pad) worn under your shorts will greatly enhance your experience too. Beach rash is no laughing matter on the second day. You always need the typical stuff, like tools, a shovel, shade, lots of ice, plenty of water and food and the like. An emergency first aid kit that includes a way of either heating water or providing some heat in the event of a stingray incident. Get the area nice and hot to help relieve the pain, don’t forget peroxide to clean it all out. Being way down island and far from help, you really need to be prepared. Hose clamps. Yup, throw a handful of hose clamps in with the tools. Last year coming off the beach Brad lost his heater hose, and all his coolant leaked out, immobilizing his ride. A hose clamp from under my seat and some water in the radiator, and he was moving again in minutes. Too bad your beach ride went to the other side recently Brad. I’m sure you’ll get another horse soon. BOLT CUTTERS. A pair of these should be in everyone’s truck that carries fish hooks. The group has seen no less than 5 hooks in hands and feet this past season, and all of them

1900 STL

Extra sunglasses. Your old-man pills (Mickey Berry). Soap and a hand-towel. Stuff to clean the kitchen up. No one likes cleaning up the pan on Monday evening from the eggs that were cooked/burned on Saturday morning. TWO cutting boards. Your camp-mates will appreciate that you’re not cutting up the fajitas on the same board you were slicing up some smelly fish for sharkbait. Well, most campmates mind that kind of stuff. Some, not so much. Then there’s the typical stuff, make sure you have enough gas. Take some extra motor oil, some WD-40, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and even some coolant if you want to be totally prepared. I have been asked for or needed at least one of those items on each and every trip I go down the beach. The sand can be really tough and cruel on vehicles, make sure yours is up to snuff before heading out. Well, that’s about enough. Make sure you file a “float plan” and let a few people know where you’re going and when you’re supposed to return, that way if something goes wrong they can send the cavalry after you. Play it safe, have fun, and I’ll see you characters down south On the Rocks!

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A 8

Dee-Scoveries by Devorah Fox

Island Moon

By Brent Rourk What a tremendous performance you will see at the Port Aransas Community Theatre (PACT) when you take in Shrek the Musical, directed by Ken Yarbrough and performed by scores of local, talented actors. This musical will delightfully grab you from the beginning where a regiment of glamorously clad characters will sing their way into your heart.

It’s August, the dog days of summer. You might think they’re called that because the heat and humidity has us all lying prostrate and panting with our tongues hanging out, and you’d be right. But they’re also called “dog days” because the ancient Romans associated the hot July and August weather with the presence of a certain star in the sky. That would Sirius, the brightest star in the constellation Canis Major, or Large Dog.

PA Puppy Style offers full-service grooming and day boarding, an especially handy service

the phone, makes appointments and holds down the fort when Raidean has to be out. He proudly demonstrated their products and services. For the PA Puppy Styl-in’ dog, they offer pet perfume and nail polish. They have pet costumes and bows that they make themselves, as well as signature PA Puppy Style bandannas and kerchiefs. However as good as he is with pets and people, Tyler has his eye on a different career when he graduates. He wants to be an artist. Anyone who has a sketch pad constantly within easy reach is likely destined to do exactly that. Tyler showed me several of his penand-ink sketches and whipped up a drawing of a gardenia-like blossom just that quickly while I chatted with Raidean.

for Port A’s weekend visitors and pet owners who need someone to keep any eye on their pet while they’re out on a boat or a day of touring. There’s also overnight boarding available on a limited basis. The shop is currently boarding

Hours are Monday through Friday, 9 .am. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. After hours call or text 361558-4562. Call to make an appointment or just walk in. Inexpensive nail trimming and filing especially are available on a walk-in basis. I know from experience that they’ll even trim cats’ claws. When I first got a new kitten from the Port Aransas Animal Shelter, the little guy’s claws were needle-sharp. I could have tried trimming them myself but the operation requires care. It’s all too easy to cut too closely and nick a vein. Some tasks are simply better left to professionals. For more information, call 361-749-1818, send an email to papuppstyle@gmail.com or come by the shop at 2106 Highway 361, Suite A in Port Aransas. Say “hi” to shop dogs Lola “Happy Feet,” a friendly mini-pin who knows lots of cute tricks, and Ebony, a bigger but equally friendly black dog. I’ll see you there. — http://devorahfox.com

two dogs who have been there since April and are likely to stay until September. Raidean’s hoping to get doggie day care going in the future. Raidean’s worked with animals since she was dog-walker as a teenager. Before starting her own business she shampooed animals at Petco. Petco sent her to grooming school and she acquired her license. I wasn’t aware that pet groomers had to be licensed, and they don’t in Texas—yet. They do have to be licensed in other states, much as do cosmeticians. Should it become required in Texas, Raidean will be ready. She has fostered many dogs and is proud of the recent turnaround of a highly aggressive and combative dog. After working with the dog it was successfully re-homed where it has lived with its new family, including the children, without any incidents. Raidean’s heart’s desire would be to do more fostering and teaching people how to be better pet owners. Like his mother, Tyler loves animals and has his duties at the shop well in hand. He answers

August 8, 2013

Shrek A ‘Must See’

Dog Days

http://devorahfox.com

Dogs are the stars PA Puppy Style where owner Raidean Barnett and her son Tyler groom and board them. The Barnetts are about to celebrate their second anniversary, having opened PA Puppy Style in September, 2012. They acquired the grooming and boarding business from another owner.

Moving quickly in spite of several prop and set changes, the musical will captivate you from the opening scene and moves, through continuous audience laughter and applause, seamlessly from one scene to another and one favorite Shrek tune to another. The acting is superb from the entire cast, the dancing divine, and the singing in tune and on time. “Witty on all levels”, offered Catherine Clark. “Their voices were amazing. It was a musical through and through. A must see.” The most obvious and magnificent element beginning when the curtain opens is that of costumes, which are extremely colorful and very professionally done. You will be hard pressed to find a stage with better costume design, as all of the actors are dressed in incredibly creative and detailed costumes. Gladys Choyke explained, “The costumes are incredible. Of all of the productions that I have seen, the costumes are the best in this one.” By the end of the performance, every audience member was on their feet, clapping and singing along with the cast, very appreciative of the energy and enthusiasm demonstrated by the cast. Long time Port Aransas resident Charlie Brown thought and shared, “I am very impressed and I have been here a very long time.”t Audience comments were extremely favorable. “I think it’s cute. The best part is the dragon”, claimed theatre goer Amanda Windsor. Amanda’s daughter Joclyn chimed, “I liked it. I liked the part where Pinocchio’s nose grew.” Tatiana Ortiz beamed as she said, “This is the first play that I have seen and it was wonderful. I loved seeing the SMA kids singing.” Clearly this was a team effort that reflected a great amount of hours rehearsing and preparing; lights, dance, lines, costumes, props, and makeup. The song and dance routines were well

Nilla! Meet Nilla. She desperately needs a new Island home. She was abandoned in a home on North Padre Island. She has a very sweet disposition but would probably do best in an only dog home. If you can foster Nilla until she finds a home or would like to adopt Nilla please call Belinda at 361-510-5980.

done, enhanced by costumes and set. All of the other props were well crafted and truly added to the professionalism and impact of the musical. Fionna and Donkey added their strong, clear, and fluid voices to song and Shrek’s delivered his lines with a strong and believable accent. Lord Farquaad drew laughter for his lines as well as his costume. Pinocchio’s nose was an attention getter as it responded to her ‘lie’ lines. The interplay between Shrek and Donkey held the musical together as they met and bantered throughout. All of the dance routines drew applause. They were well done and accompanied largely by strong voices. Charming dance routines with the entire cast were smooth and entertaining, from Lord Farquaad’s large troupe of red clad dancers to the Three Blind Mice to the Freak Flag shuffle. You will love the large dragon as it dances on stage with its piercing green eyes and sings beautifully. You will not be able to contain yourself when the Gingerbread Man scene opens. Lord Farquaads’ bath is something to behold, and you just might find a little spot in your heart for the developing romance between Shrek and Fiona. The interplay between all of the actors was quick and amusing. Hearing different voices pop up from amazing costumes put a smile on everybody’s face. Though this is Shrek the Musical and stars a terrific Shrek, it is much more. The dedication demonstrated by all of the crews and the terrific performances by EVERYBODY make this musical a treat for all audiences, young and old alike. Get your tickets today (call PACT at 361-749-6036). I agree with Ms. Clark when she emphasizes that it is a ‘MUST SEE’. Hats off to Shrek the Musical. Two thumbs up!

August 8, 2013

Island Moon

Backwater Adventures By Joey Farah Farah’s Fishing Adventures