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Trashed Again on the Rocks A7
Turtle Release A4
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361-949-7700 editor@islandmoon.com The Island Newspaper since 1996 Facebook : The Island Moon Newspaper
July 18, 2013
The Only Island in Texas with Toe Rings and Towed Rigs
Around The Island
By Dale Rankin editor@islandmoon.com What a week Around Our Island. We actually had some real rain, not just the kind that leaves big dusty spots on our cars but the kind that actually runs down the gutter. The strange weather patterns persist well into the summer.
Photo by Mark Middleton Next Publication Date: 7/25/2013
Island Moon ArtWalk This Weekend Will Benefit Tara Truett
Year 16, Issue 483
Facebook: The Island Moon Newspaper
Schlitterwork
Digging of Canals Continues, New Buildings Going Up
The Deep Sea Roundup last weekend produced a dearth of billfish as the offshore water temperature failed to rise above 80 degrees and the billfish looked for balmier climes. The weekly Gumball Rally down the landing strip between SPID and Port Aransas gets weirder and more congested every week. The cars start piling up several miles before you hit Port A on Saturday and then as you get closer there is a mix of traffic slowing golf carts. Forget about making a left turn on Alister on Saturday. The process reverses itself on Saturday evening and again on Sunday during mid-day. We Islanders are learning to tailor our weekend schedule around the traffic like folks in the big cities do around rush hour.
Big rig This week we headed down for the launch of the big rig that made its way through the channel mid-afternoon on Saturday and what a sight it was.
Schlitterbahn drawings have been released. This is what the current Padre Isles Country Club Clubhouse will look like when construction is finished.
The Olympus platform inched its way through the channel as spectators lined up to watch her go. We stopped by the launch party at Virginia’s where the folks who design and build them gather to watch the fruit of their labors go by. There is a story in this issue with more information but we learned a couple of fun facts that you can use to entertain and amuse your friends; first, the rig drew 42 feet of water as it was underway. That means there was somewhere around ten feet of clearance between it and the bottom. Second, when it is in place the rig will be secured to the bottom by 36-inch pipe which is fastened to each of the platform’s four legs.
Work on new poolside cabanas is nearing completion at the site of the Schlitterbahn
Lake Padre Monster We had the first Kafob sighting in a while last week in Lake Padre. Moon Mike was always on the lookout for Kafobs which rose up out of the Laguna Madre on the New Moon. Lo and behold last week there was one. It showed its giant green head just before sundown on the east side of the lake right by the Boathouse where it was witnessed by two absolutely sober and credible folks who for reasons that should be obvious would rather their names not be used. He popped his green head up just long enough to look around and maybe grab some air before going submarine. Mike said the only sign that a Kafob was around was the coyotes would issue a shrill whine before scattering. So if you go around Lake Padre on a new moon keep your eyes open for a giant green head, and listen for the coyotes whine and if you can be the first Islander ever to come away with a picture of the elusive Kafob. This weekend is the Island Moon ArtWalk on the seawall. Stop by and say hello if you are Around The Island.
Exactly the same and Totally Different
The event runs both Saturday and Sunday in the parking lot on the Michael J. Ellis Seawall. Both the Artwalk and the benefit will kick off at 9 a.m.
By Mary Lou White 361-960-9460 marylou@baxterbrooks.com
This event is sponsored by the Island Moon Newspaper, KIII Television, and the Shark 106.5 radio. Live music will be provided by the Brett Mussey Band. The event is free to both vendors and the public.
Night at the Races July 19
The 12 Annual Night at the Races presented by the Padre Island Rotary Club will be held July 19 at the Padre Isles Country Club. The annual event lets bettors place wagers with play money on pre-recorded horse races. At the end of the night the money can be used to buy over $5000 in prizes. The event kicks off at 6 p.m. and includes a full seafood buffet along with two beer and/or wine tickets. Pre-race tickets are available at the Country Club or from any Island Rotarian and are $35 and limited to 120.
By Brent Rourk
Cameras clicked and binoculars were raised to see the oil rig as bystanders asked each other questions about how tall the rig is or where the rig is destined to work. Small 21 foot fishing boats were dwarfed by the tugs that were dwarfed by the rig. It was difficult to imagine the size as many onlookers compared it to skyscrapers, the Stature of Liberty, towering waterfalls, and more. They were all correct in one thing. The rig is tall; it
Schlitterban continued on A14
The Island Moon Newspaper ArtWalk this weekend will include a benefit for Tara Truett who was severally beaten on the beach on July 5. Truett remains in critical condition and her friends will be on hand Saturday to help raise funds to support her.
Shell’s Olympus Oil Rig Platform Heads to the Gulf
Shell’s largest Tension Leg Platform (TLP) slowly began its journey to the Mars Oil field in the Gulf of Mexico on Saturday as thousands of curious onlookers lined the channel in Port Aransas to observe the enormity of the platform. They were not disappointed, though several who arrived early had to patiently wait as the massive rig passed by the ferry station a little later than advertised. Regardless, it was a spectacular sight to behold and all of those onlookers as well as thousands frolicking at the beach froze and stared as they considered the vast size of the rig.
Beach Country Resort as well as the new tennis clubhouse. Near SPID work on the digging of the new canals is progressing with the fill sand being used to raise the elevation on other parts of the site.
is the largest Shell rig at 406 feet from the base of the hull to the tip of its derrick. Admiring observers lined the shores on both sides of Port Aransas to witness this colossal rig slowly make its way into the Gulf. Olympus will find its home in roughly 3000 feet of water approximately 130 miles south of New Orleans, joining another deep water oil rig, the Mars TLP, in the Mars field. The Mars field was discovered in 1989 and began producing in 1996 with the when the Mars TLP began operation. Having two rigs will hopefully optimize oil production in the Mars field. The Olympus is designed to operate in 3,000 to 5,000 feet of water and designed to access reservoirs from 10,000 to 22,000 feet, beyond the capability of the Mars TLP. Once the Olympus reaches its home within a month, then 16 steel tension legs will be installed. Oil production is expected sometime in 2014. Shell owns 71.5% of the rig and BP owns 28.5%
North Padre and Port Aransas: a Study in Contrast
Friends and Family used to question me about the uniqueness of living in The Netherlands and in the United States. I found over the years that it was an impossible question to answer. Only those individuals, who have done something similar, can possibly grasp what you are trying to explain. I now find myself in a parallel situation when I am asked to describe the difference between Port Aransas and our section of Padre Island. For the past two months, I have been posting the MLS listings for Mustang Island and Padre Island. Even I have been surprised at the numbers, because it forced me to compare the two areas in a way that I had never taken the time to do before.
How Very Similar The obvious factor here is the landscape. Mustang Island and Padre Island are both barrier Islands that border on the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, many people are completely unaware when they cross from one Island to the other. In total number of Properties For Sale on our MLS system, they seem to run neck and
neck, week after week. Padre Island has 406 total listings and Mustang Island has 431 total listings. Under Lots/Land For Sale, Mustang Island =186 and Padre Island =178.
Total Residences For Sale are also similar, Mustang Island =227 and Padre Island = 215. Commercial listings reflect Mustang Island =16 and Padre Island =11, while Multi Family Units show Mustang Island =1 and Padre Island =2. Closed Sales in June 2013, follow the same pattern. Mustang Island had 45 closed sales in June, represented by 14 Lot/Land units and 31 Residential Units. During June on Padre Island, 30 Residential Units closed, along with 6 Lot/ Land units and 1 large Multi Family complex, for a total of 37 closed sales. I suppose I am constantly surprised because, to me, the two Islands represent very different lifestyles.
Totally Different
Padre Island and Mustang Island have been different historically from the beginning of Real Estate continued on A6
A little Island History
The Island During the Civil War Mexican cattle rustlers and Yankee gold
Editor’s note: This is the latest in a series of stories from Islander Greg Smith who is a member of the Dunn family which came to The Island in the late 1800s and ran a ranch up until the later part of the 1900s.
divisive and passionate issue causing a great rift within the City. Unionist feared for their lives and many left town for the less hostile countryside.
By Greg Smith In 1879 Catherine Dunn and son’s Patrick and Tom began ranching on Padre Island, which later would sometimes be called the Dunn Ranch. This is the story of Catherine and her husband Thomas journey to South Texas.
Civil War comes to town
Battle of Corpus Christi painting by Thomas Noakes
With the outbreak of the Civil War Corpus had a population of about 2,000 souls, up from 600 ten short years before. The town was a thriving and growing seaport, a gateway for area towns, farms, ranches and Laredo. Beef, Salt, Cotton and Wool crossed the docks bound for New Orleans and other points. Nueces County, like the rest of Texas had to vote on whether to stay a part of the Union or join with the Confederate States, when the vote was tallied four out of five of the citizens voted to secede. It was an extremely
The Dunns in the most part supported a free Texas and three: Brothers Thomas and Peter and nephew Lawrence joined the ranks of the Confederacy. Thomas and Peter enlisted on September 10th in Company I of Hobby’s Texas Regiment. In December of 1861 the war came to Corpus in earnest with the arrival of Lt. John W. Kittredge and the Union blockading fleet. With the USS Arthur stopping any ship at the Gulf passes and Kittredge’s “mosquito fleet” of gun boats History continued on A5
Island Moon
A 2
P.I.E. members were buzzing with the Bee Lady!
July
18,
2013
The Travelling Prensa?
Thats not The Moon! Tucker Tuesch and Lighthouse Rick in Grenada, Nicaragua, sporting a newspaper somewhat less well known on The Island On July 12th P.I.E. members held their monthly luncheon at the Island’s Holiday Inn Beach Hotel. The program was all about bees presented by Deborah Houlihan-President of the Coastal Bend Beekeepers Association.She talked about her two beehives; bees can fly to 3 miles to find pollen; bees live about 30 days but the queen can live up to 3 years; she lays up to 20,000 eggs in her life and the queens will set aside a few eggs with a secretion from their bodies to become new queens.Deborah brought plants for a raffle. Pictured: Deborah Houlihan.
JOHNNY D’S •
Johnny Ds Finer Dining on the island
Sunday Brunch Menu Served 11:00am-2:00pm Last Seating at 1:30
On August 9th the P.I.E. program will be BINGO! Make reservations by noon Wednesday August 7th to PIELuncheon@aol.com. Any questions about membership call Sheila at 9492702.
The Island’s only bloody Mary bar
Winners of the Johnny Uhr Bustante Billfish Tournament Team Locomia ... Capt Rand Clark Clayton Walters and Alfred Robles — with Locomia Sportfishing and Rand Clark.
At the Beach
Dinner
Served nightly Tuesday thru Saturday 4:30pm-9:30pm Wine Down Tuesday All Wine 1/2 Price
BRUNCH MENU SERVED 11:00AM-2:00PM View our full menu onSUNDAY our website or Google www.letseat.at/johnnydsresturant Wednesday Locals Night Come See What’s Cooking!
THE ISLAND’S ONLY BLOODY MARY BAR
Call for reservations at 361-949-2500 Located 15605 SPID on the Island
DINNER SERVED NIGHTLY TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY
Catering Available www.letseat.at/johnnydsrestaurant
4:30PM-9:30PM The surfer is Tim Burdick. Location south Horace Caldwell pier. Photo by Carson Einkauf.
HAPPY HOUR BEGINNING AT 4:30PM
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Longboarding is a great way to enjoy the seawall. Photos by Manuel Chapa III
LOCATED 15605 SPID ON THE ISLAND Flo ur B luff Dr.
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Sometimes Wednesday is a perfect beach day- Photo by Dale Rankin
Bluff Skate Park Opens!
Full Service Hospital
Preventative & Wellness Medicine
Laser Surgery Laser Therapy Ultrasound Radiology Clinical Lab Spay & Neuter Walk-Ins Welcome Drop Offs Welcome
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Skateboarders are off and rolling at the new Wranosky Skatepark Park in Flour Bluff. The park was officially opened last week and is located on Grahm Road.
July 18, 2013
Island Moon
Stuff I Heard on the Island
Letters to Riley By Riley P. Dog
Hey all my dog rescue friends. I NEED HELP! This dog swam onto my neighbor’s ramp on the Atascadera/Bounty canal on The Island. He is a bit thin and very hungry. Has a metal choke collar on but no ID. In fact I am not sure of the sex. My neighbor is elderly and very frail and cannot let his dogs out into this backyard with this dog there. I am afraid he is going to ask me to take him. Steven Pituch
A3
by Dale Rankin
Canal Dogs Dear Riley P. Dog,
Dear Riley, My co-worker almost drowned fishing a dog (chocolate lab) out of the canal on Friday. Maybe a Shepard’s hook is in order for people who live on the canals. Education for the residents also. Another new neighbor lost his dog (drowned) the first week here (didn’t believe in fences by the water). I think the Island Moon should be involved for education. Candi Jinnette
Dear Steven and Candi, clears right up once they I thought only dogs and fall in the cold water. Not second graders read my sure why. column so I am glad to hear from some humans There are many designs who are out of grade for ramps and deck and school and the problem dock builders on The that you bring up hits Island know how to build very close to home for them. With one of them me because one of my your dogs can swim in the humans had to rescue canal to cool off and they Needs to find his humans me from the canal only will know how to get out a few weeks ago after a cat tricked me into and so if they fall in accidentally they won’t falling in. Stoopid cats. panic. They will know where the ramp is But the problem of dogs drowning in and swim to it even if their humans are not canals, and swimming pools, is a frequent around. If you already have a ramp tell your and very serious one on The Island. We dogs neighbors who have dogs to bring their dog sometime don’t understand our limitations, over and let them use it. That way they will or we are tricked by cats, and we end up in know where it is in case they need it. the canal. If there are no humans around to One of the main reasons dogs drown in help us get out we panic and we drown. It canals is that they fall in when no one is is very sad. My humans and their friends around. If their humans are not there then have fished many dogs out of canals over the they need to know where to swim to a ramp years and here is what they tell me can be and get out. There are several Neighborhood done to help us. Watch groups on our Island and when they First, if you live on a canal and have a dog get together they should talk about where a fence is a good idea. A Shepard’s hook, or there are places dogs can get out of the canal. any kind of hook on a long pole, providing I think that sometimes humans don’t think it doesn’t have a sharp point, is a help. At about how to get a panicked dog out of the very least it can be used to keep us afloat a canal until they have to try and do it. A until someone can get us out. But if the dog little planning can make a big difference. is a big fellow like me it won’t be enough For instance if the water next to your dock is to pull us up to the bulkhead or the dock. shallow enough for a human to stand up then Even though I have lost thirteen pounds on they may be able to jump in and just grab the Dr. Christi’s diet I am still an eighty pound dog, but if it is too deep they will need a way dog and my human is a weakling and could to pull the dog up. never pull me up if my coat is soaked with Swimming pools are another problem for water. It was all he could do to boost me up us dogs. Sometimes we fall in when there even when he was behind me. My humans once saved a little weenie dog using a dip is no human around and we try to climb up net. They fished him out of the Cartagena over the side and we can’t make it and we canal like an eight pound trout. So a long panic. This happens a lot. If you own a dog handled dip net is a handy thing to have and you have a pool you should put the dog since besides weenie dogs it can also get out in the pool a few times and make them get Styrofoam cups, paper plates, cats, injured out on their own. This is no problem if they birds, and just about anything smaller than a know where the steps are. Back before I was Cocker Spaniel. But it won’t help much for a Dogbanned I swam in the pool at our condo dog as big as the one that Steven saved. Your all the time and if I fell in now I could get out with no problem because I know where going to need something bigger for that. the steps are. One time my humans saw a dog in the canal We Island dogs we lack the frontal lobes and pushed in a kayak and the dog climbed up on it by himself. A surfboard or even a necessary for cognitive reasoning so we lifejacket might work too, depending on can’t talk to each other and we are counting how big the dog is, anything that will float is on our humans to look out for us. If you better than nothing. We dogs have a strong guys will plan ahead then when you see one survival instinct and if you give us a way to of us in trouble you won’t panic and you can get up out of the water we will try to use it, help us. We’re counting on you. but sometimes we panic and get confused. So Candi and Steven, if this helps you maybe you can send me a hotdog. The last If you live near a canal you should keep a large life ring fastened to a rope on your deck one that came in the mail was in a yellow just in case, sometimes humans fall in too. envelope and it wasn’t smashed flat enough The first thing to remember if you see a dog and it got intercepted by my humans in the water is that he may be tired and he before I got it. So if you could put it in a just needs something to help him float until box with some bacon and maybe a donut you can get him out. Even an air mattress put “Important Box for Riley P. Dog” on might help. Or a life jacket. Anything that the outside then maybe I could get it. You a dog can get his front paws on to help him. will have to put stamps though because if it is COD my humans will have to pay and The best thing if you have a dog is to build they will probably eat my hotdog instead of a dog ramp. These are not hard to do and giving it to me and they would definitely eat some humans also use them to launch their my donut. kayaks and to climb out of the water after And also put “Not for cats” on the box or big La Posada parties when their sweaters otherwise those cats will get my hotdog. are soaked and real heavy and they are talking funny. It’s funny how their speech Stoopid cats.
Part of the history of our Island is the story of streets never built. A review of the original plans for The Island calls for two feeder streets, one on each side of SPID that run almost the entire length of The Island. But more than thirty years after the original plans were drawn up one of those streets, Aquarius, is only sort of complete, and the other mostly non-existent. I say Aquarius is only “sort of” complete because the original plans called for a bridge that would have allowed drivers to turn right on Aquarius off of SPID at the base of the JFK Bridge and continue all the way to Whitecap. That route vanished when the original developers decided to forgo the bridge in order to sell more lots. As a result Aquarius remains bifurcated by a canal and drivers must weave through backstreets in order to get to the south to Commodores by that route. That route, west of SPID, will likely never be completed.
Eastside route On the east side of SPID, adjacent to Aquarius on the west side, a route was planed that would take vehicles from Packery Channel Park Road all the way to the base of the SH 361 Bridge over Packery Channel, across SH 361 to Whitecap, and even further south to the county park. That route is still clear since it was platted and no buildings have been allowed to block its path. From Packery Channel Park Road that road would turn south at Sand Dollar to Verdemar; that portion of the road currently exists but south of Verdemar it turns to sand – literally. Drivers with four-wheel drive taking the shortcut have to cut a path through the weeds that goes due south behind the Pelican Lounge, the car wash, the hotel, the Padre Islander beach shop, and reaches SH 361 at a point across the street from American Bank. It comes out between the fenced area of the existing boat yard and the office. Some part of that route already has utilities, including a sewer line, in place but currently there are no plans to complete the roadway.
Southbound Once the route crosses SH 361 it runs behind the parking lot at American Bank then makes two 90-degree turns before again heading due south. It is clearly visible on satellite images. One leg of it turns west and hits SPID, while the other continues south parallel to SPID. The original design was to have it terminate at Whitecap just east of Whitecap Liquor where the cut in the curb for it is still visible. But since those plans were drawn up Lake Padre was dredged and expanded and if the road were to ever be built it would have to be re-platted across private property; with the marina and other development planned for that area that is unlikely to ever happen but at least it would provide a way to reach the planned marina there. South of Whitecap the route continues due south to Viento del Mar which is the first beach access road south of Whitecap, where it ends.
An east/west loop So if this entire thoroughfare is ever completed it would provide a way to take some pressure off of SPID during peak hours when drivers are trying to get to SH 361 to turn left for Port Aransas. It would also provide an alternate
route to whatever development happens on Lake Padre.
There are obviously some traffic engineering issues here; for instance how to get north and southbound traffic on this route across SH 361, but none that appear unsolvable. It would also allow drivers to avoid the Commodores/SPID intersection which is getting more crowded by the day.
In an Island Strategic Action Committee meeting a few months ago developer Paul Schexnailder outlined a nascent plan to find a way to join the east and west sides of SPID without drivers having to cross traffic on SPID. He described some version of a loop which would allow easy east/west passage with minimal interference with SPID. This plan will be paid for with private money but will by necessity need planning, input, and some funding from either the city or state; since SPID is a state maintained roadway and the connecting streets would be the city’s.
Anything to do with the Texas Highway Department takes a long time to get through the system because the time arch for their projects is sometimes fifteen years long; and judging by the platted streets that are still sand paths more than forty years after the plans were drawn up, city projects sometimes can take even longer.
Planets aligned
But the planets may be aligning to get something done. The Schlitterbahn park is scheduled to be open by next summer and the City Council appears to be headed for a bond election on streets in November. While the stated purpose of those bonds is to repair existing streets it hardly seems a stretch to ask that some of that money be used to build streets that were planned but never built.
Empirical evidence shows unequivocally that traffic on The Island is already on the rise and will certainly get heavier as more development takes place. Eventually a second bridge to The Island will come across the Laguna Madre and connect to Sea Pines, but that is at least fifteen years off. In the meantime the JFK Causeway will be the only point of entry for The Island and already averages 26,000 vehicles per day; meaning that traffic is much heavier than that at its peak.
Those of us who have lived in cities where traffic is congested can attest to what heavy traffic does to quality of life. It seems to me that now is the time to start asking our city to address this train which is inexorably coming down the track. Our city is happy to take the added sales and property tax revenue that Island development provides; now comes the time when they need to feed the goose that lays the golden eggs.
The proper venue to push for the completion of the Island road system is undoubtedly the ISAC. They have the council’s ear and the expertise to help plan the project and with the council’s help the ability to push it onto the November bond ballot. The planets may never be aligned like this again and if we don’t act now by this time next year we may well find that we are so far behind the curve that we may never catch up. Now is the time to act.
Olympus Heads for Deep Water
No Room at the Inn... Or anywhere else on the Island last weekend
New Café on the Island! Café Fresca is now open inside of Mail & More located across from the giant shark on S.P.I.D. Leah Pezzi has taken over operations of the café and is serving Paninis, sandwiches, smoothies, fresh baked goods, gelato and more. Go by and pick up something to go or have lunch at one of their tables.
A crowd gathered to watch the new rig make it’s way through Port A
Hair Salon
While Supplies Last
Denice Stylist
Amy Stylist
Roni Owner Stylist
New location 15033 S.P.I.D. Member Padre Island Business Association
Member Padre Island Rotary Club
Color Services starting at $65
Hair Cuts $25 with Color
949-0794 www.theislandsedgehairsalon.com
Island Moon
A 4
July 18, 2013
WHERE THE LOCALS SHOP
Watch A Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle Hatchling Release Most Hatchlings Will Be Released During July By Donna J. Shaver, Ph.D. Division of Sea Turtle Science and Recovery National Park Service
at the Esplande
Padre Island National Seashore
1702 HWY 181, N Portland, TX (361) 643-2129 140 E. Ave. G, Port Aransas, TX (361) 749-4484 501 S. Alister, Port Aransas, TX (361) 749-6994
e-mail: Donna_Shaver@nps.gov Kemp’s ridley sea turtle hatchlings continue to be released at Padre Island National Seashore this month. We welcome the public to attend many of our releases of these tiny turtles, and no fee is charged to attend. So far this year, 12 public releases have been held and thousands of people have attended. More than 1,000 people attended three of the releases, but other releases drew smaller crowds. Releases are popular with our local citizens, and have become a tourism draw. Many of the people attending turtle releases travel to our area from across the state and country just to attend. So far this year, 151 Kemp’s ridley nests have been found in Texas, which is far less than the record 209 found during 2012. We are nearing the end of the nesting season for this species and do not expect to find many more Kemp’s ridley nests this year. Since fewer Kemp’s ridley nests were found this year than during the last 2 years, we will not be able to hold as many releases. We expect to hold about 20 public releases this year, compared to 30 held during 2011 when 199 nests were located in Texas and 29 held during 2012 when 209 nests were found.
Egg care and hatchling releases
Facebook page titled Padre Island NS Division of Sea Turtle Science & Recovery. The projected hatchling release dates for all the remaining egg clutches held in our incubation facility on can be viewed our website at www. nps.gov/pais. If you have been waiting to see a release this year, please do not delay any longer. You will see from this table that most hatchlings will be released during July, and by August relatively few clutches will remain in our incubation facility. The fewer the clutches the more difficult it is to schedule and hold a public release. In contrast, when several clutches are due to be released at the same time this provides “insurance” so that if hatchlings from one or more clutches go into their frenzy during the middle of the night and have to be released immediately then, other clutches might be available for release during the scheduled, early morning public release.
Record number of loggerhead nests found Our turtle patrollers continue to find loggerhead and green sea turtle nests. So far this year, 10 loggerhead and 6 green sea turtle nests have been found. Since the nesting season for these species can continue through mid-September, we hope that additional nests will be found.
Eggs from most of the sea turtle nests found at the National Seashore and northward on the Texas coast are collected and brought to our incubation facility at the National Seashore to protect them from several human related and natural threats. It takes about 45-53 days for the eggs to hatch in the facility. When hatchlings are fully emerged from their eggshells we release them on the beach and protect them during release. Hatchlings must be released when they are physically ready for release and enter their “frenzy”. Fortunately, hatchlings are often ready for release during the early morning when the public can be invited to view their release. Public releases are held starting at 6:45 am, on the beach in front of the Malaquite Beach Visitor Center at Padre Island National Seashore. The public is instructed to meet on the deck of the Visitor Center on the morning of the release, and are given an educational program there starting at 6:30 am. After the program is completed, a ranger guides them on a short walk to the beach release site. For the latest information about our next upcoming release call our recorded Hatchling Hotline (tel. 361-949-7163) or visit our
The 10 loggerhead nests is a new record number found on the Texas coast in a year. The previous record was 9 nests, set in 2010. Eight of the loggerhead nests and all 6 green turtle nests were found at the National Seashore. Of the other two loggerhead nests, one was found on North Padre Island north of the National Seashore and one was found on South Padre Island.
JESSE'S LIQUOR
13947 SPID, Corpus Christi, TX (361) 949-8961 1623 Wildcat Dr., Portland, TX (361) 643-2300
July 18th - July 24th Jose Cuervo White and Gold Tequila .750ml - $16.99 Rebecca Creek Whiskey .750 - $34.99 Bacardi Party Ready To Drink 1.75 - $15.99 Beer of the Month Redd's Apple Ale 6 pack - $8.49 Barefoot Refresh Summer Red .750 - $6.99 Sampling July 22th -July 25th Family Owned & Operated since 1987 OPEN Monday - Saturday 10:00 a.m.- 9:00 p.m.
High Quality Work at Competitive Pricing! We do not schedule public releases for hatchlings from these other species. It is more difficult to predict when the hatchlings will enter their frenzy, and typically it occurs at night. However, occasionally hatchlings from these other species frenzy when a Kemp’s ridley hatchling release is scheduled to occur and we release the hatchlings from the other species at a Kemp’s ridley release. None of the loggerhead or green turtle eggs have started to hatch yet this year.
Season’s Greetings & Happy Holidays 27 Years Experience ● Commercial & Residential Member On The Island
On Padre Island Duane Ebert 361-658-2459 | 361-949-0661 decksanddocksnorthpadre.com Member Padre Island Business Association
Padre Island Business Assoc.
Home Remodeling and More...
Duane Ebert Cell: (361) 658-2459 Bus: (361) 949-0661 28 Years Experience l Commercial & Residential
Mary Ann McShane, Realtor, GRI, SRES e-mail: malm335@sbcglobal.net Corpus Christi Realty Group
Turtle releases always draw a large crowd
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
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Island Office (361) 215-8629
July 18, 2013
News from your
Island Moon
Artillery duel
Recycle Bin on the Fortuna Bay Boat Ramp
Kayaks and Canoes in the Canals at Night It is dangerous to be out at night in one of these since they do not have lights. But, more importantly, some folks are using these types of “vehicles” to ttake things off boats and docks. So, if you see any boat without a light, call the Police!
Police Patrol of the Canals Two of the officers who patrol the Island at night have been working on trying to get a boat in order to patrol our canals at night and on weekends. They would be able to enforce all of the various violations from speeding to illegal fishing. It is early in the planning stage, but we are working with them to see if we can make this a reality.
A5
and captured schooners controlling the bays, trading and commerce ground to a halt.
By Maybeth Christiansen
The recycle bin at the ramp has been a tremendous help for residents to dispose of cardboard boxes and other recyclable items. The bin is used so much that the City changes it out every week. However, recently some folks have taken to throwing garbage and boat or auto parts in the bin. Obviously, those are not recyclable items! So, please do not use the recycle bin as a trash bin and if you see anyone dumping that type of material, please call the Police or take down their license plate number and call the office.
History continued from A1
Canal Debris We still get calls from folks who observe their neighbors dumping fish carcasses and grass clippings in the canals. We have a brochure about our canals which I send to the offenders to educate them on why this is not acceptable. So if you are dumping – STOP. If you see it being done, call the office with the address and we will send out a letter and brochure. Also, on that same note, grass clippings blown into the street also is not acceptable. All of the storm water runoff goes directly into the canals. Remember, all of the stuff on the street will wash into the canals eventually (if it ever rains) and results in polluting our canals.
PI Dog Club Bev Hoffman is starting a Padre Island Dog Club. She has some great ideas for dog owners to get together for various fun activities. There is no charge for membership. Contact Bev at 949-3112 for more information or to sign up. On a personal note, I want to thank the Island Community for the outpouring of support my family has received on the recent passing of my husband Ron. We truly appreciate all of the food, cards, calls and visits. The Island really is a small town with a big heart. I am happy to be a part of this community!
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On August 15th 1862 Kittredge tried to capture Corpus Christi and was repulsed by Confederate forces. Tom and Peter Dunn took part in the Artillery duel between the union fleet and the Town during the attack. Even though the Confederates controlled the town, times were rough. Corpus relied on ships bringing all the necessities for living; lumber, clothes, medicine, foods, everything not produced in the area were cut off. The people were forced to live with what they had and could find in the countryside. On August 2, 1863 tragedy struck the Dunn family, Tom died not in battle but of the fever that struck down as many soldiers as bullets. This left Catherine without her husband and provider and the prospect of how to feed and care for the young Dunn family of five surviving children, with twelve year old Lawrence the oldest and one year old Catherine the youngest in a starving and war torn town. Three months later Union forces captured Port Aransas and then the Confederates abandoned Corpus Christi. The Yankee’s then would foray across the bay and plunder the city for firewood, furniture and other plunder from Confederate
Civil War positions later become renowned for.
Island cattle rustlers
Then the war struck John Dunn with a vengeance, twenty seven year old son Lawrence, born in Ireland and coming to Corpus when he was ten was killed on Padre Island. He was part of an expedition to wipe out Mexican cattle rustlers driving cattle from the mainland to the Island and then selling them to Yankee forces
866-get-a-cow
Officers of the 13th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment, which landed at what is now Packery Channel and marched north up Mustang Island to participate in the capture of Fort Esperanza. sympathizers to furnish their new home “Post Aransas. “
Yankee gold The Dunn’s were not immune and Catherine’s small nest egg of gold was found and “liberated” by the Yankee marauders. Destitute and with five hungry mouths to feed, Catherine with what help her young children could provide would take an ox cart to the farm and collect firewood to sell in Corpus.
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The times continued to get worse; Catherine by 1865 as her kids were becoming more independent and were getting ready to haul cotton by ox cart down the dangerous Cotton road through bandit infested territory to Mexico. news of the war’s end came to Corpus and ended this desperate plan to survive. Instead it was a time for renewal and rebuilding the farm, Catherine’s first order of business was to sell the Oxen and yokes and trade them for a lot in Corpus to build a house and raise a family.
Next; Confederate and Union forces clash at Whitecap Boulevard.
The Port Aransas Independent School District is now accepting out-of-district student transfer applications for grades K-12 for the 2013-2014 school year. This a great opportunity to have your child in a school that obtained the highest End-of-Course test scores in the coastal bend region in 2012. PAISD offers a familyfriendly atmosphere with small classes, one on one attention, and numerous successful academic and athletic programs. Transportation from a central island location may be available. Please visit www.paisd.net and click on “Parent Connection” for student transfer guidelines and application. Apply now to ensure your child’s placement. “Marlin Pride Runs Deep”
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The future “Duke of Padre”, six year old Patrick, was at his Uncle John’s farm one afternoon when Confederate authorities came looking to buy harnesses for the war effort. Since payment was in worthless Confederate money Uncle John hid his good tack in the well and left some worn out leather for the quartermaster to take. When they asked John Dunn if this was all, young Patrick said, “Uncle John you have some more down in the well.” Patrick finished that day with an awful sore Uncle, Mother and rear for that bit of straight forwardness that he would
operating out of Point Isabel and Brownsville. When the Confederates were advancing on the bandit camp the rustlers opened fire from the sand hills killing Lawrence and a companion. The Confederates exposed and without cover retreated with nothing but the bodies of their two comrades.
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Island Moon
A 6
Moon Monkeys Mike Ellis, Founder
Letters to the Editor Burglars
Fireworks
I hope everyone on the Island enjoyed the July 4th celebration this year as much as we did. Our family celebrated with friends on their deck watching the boat parade, and like everyone else, we were mesmerized by the evening fireworks display presented by Zambelli Fireworks Company. I would like to thank William Goldston, Dale Rankin, Stan Hulse, and Denise and Duane Ebert for all their help in organizing the fundraising for this year’s event. A big “Thank You” to all the Island Residents and businesses whose financial support funded the entire event! All donations were used entirely for the cost of the display, with a small reserve to be applied as a down payment on next year’s show.
Distribution Pete Alsop Island Delivery Coldwell Banker Advertising Jan Park Rankin Patrick Kelliher
I want to give a special thanks to the organizations whose participation allowed us to have a safe and enjoyable event:
Office Lisa Towns Classifieds
Pablo A. Callejas, USCG Sector Corpus Christi ; Steve Horton, Coast Guard Auxiliary; Bobby Sherwood, Precinct 4 Nueces County Constables Office; Mike Borden, Corpus Christi Fire Dept.; Foster Crowel, Corpus Christi Wastewater Treatment Dept.; J.P Hominick, Flour Bluff Volunteer Fire Dept.; Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept.; and The Texas Highway Patrol.
Arlene Ritley Design/Layout Jeff Craft Contributing Writers Joey Farah Devorah Fox Mary Craft
Looking forward to next year’s event!
Maybeth Christiansen
Jerry and Sharon Watkins
Jay Gardner
Dog Park
Todd Hunter Danniece Bobeché
In June of 2012 it was announced that the Island would be getting a dog park at Aquarius Park. Immediately, the residents whose homes back up to the park had concerns and began pleading that a more appropriate location be pursued.
Ronnie Narmour Brent Rourk Dr. Donna Shaver Photographers Miles Merwin
It quickly became obvious that the opinions of those who live near the park did not matter and that no other location would be considered, thus plans moved forward. Residents’ concerns— smell, noise(of dogs in the park, neighborhood dogs responding, and owners yelling for dogs), additional traffic, and decreased marketability of our homes—continue to be brushed under the table and replaced by positive attributes of dog parks. I have yet to find research ANYWHERE that supports building a dog park behind homes.
Jeff Dolan Mary Craft
Office Security/Spillage Control 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 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
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Miss K’s Catering & Bistro
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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
Back Porch Woody’s Sports Center Shorty’s Place The Flat’s Lounge Giggity’s Stripes @ Cotter & Station
Island
Steve Dale: Being a Island transplant, I look forward to every edition of THE ISLAND MOON. The latest edition was most appreciated by your mention of Auxiliarist Steve Horton. We are very proud of him and appreciate how he acted as Patrol Commander for our partners with Texas Parks and Wildlife and Texas Department of Public Safety. I was pleased to read CCPD will be adding a Island Patrol Boat. As this develops, please have principal contact me as we welcome working with them. Very troubled to read the Letter to the Editor from Ramona relating to BUI. Please feel free to have her contact me as we would like to learn more. Unfortunately, I don’t think there is much we may do about this now but, it would be good to get information to share with our Law Enforcement partners. I would like to reach out to our law enforcement partners to see if and what we may do as far as outreach/education. Any suggestions you may have will be appreciated. BOSN Mark Underhill Enforcement Division Sector Corpus Christi USCG
“Texas”. If you have read the “Mercer Logs,” Mustang Island and Port Aransas (Tarpon) have always looked outward to the Gulf and commerce that passes along the shorelines, as a way of providing income for those who live there. Padre Island, by comparison, focused on the land itself and income that could be derived from cattle production, without the cost of fencing the land. Padre Island and the Dunn Family were synonymous until the second decade of the twentieth century.
Mustang Island, on the other hand, focused on the growing town at the end of the Island where jobs were oriented around ships and people going and coming from Corpus Christi and the Bay. One Island focused “outward” and the other Island focused “inward”. In many ways, I think that is still the case. The MLS numbers also reflect those differences. First, you see it in the number and type of Residences For Sale. Padre Island always shows a large number of “detached” homes For Sale, with “waterfront” homes outnumbering the “interior” homes listed. By comparison, Mustang Island shifts its focus to “attached” homes, meaning condominiums, townhomes or duplexes. Detached homes are much fewer in number and “waterfront” detached residences are relatively few, which is reflected in their higher price. Padre Island appeals to “permanent” residents and Mustang Island invites you to “visit” and “play”.
In terms of Lots and Land For Sale, Padre Island provides more options for “waterfront” properties, at a lower price point, than Mustang Island. “Canal” living versus “Beach” living, each Island has its specialty. Obviously, Mustang Island/Port Aransas has, at this point in time, far more value in Commercial properties. With shops, restaurants and an actual “town center”, it emphasizes the difference between the two Islands. Padre Island was “developed” as a “resort community” centered around a Golf Club, while Port Aransas has always functioned as a “true town” with residents working to earn a living. With the passing of time, however, those unique distinctions are blurring and the MLS numbers reflect the changes that are taking place. Being informed is a good thing.
Padre Island Real Estate Ticker
Island Farmers’ Market July 20, 2013
Please note vendor locations for this Saturday
Many of our vendors will be joining the Island Moon’s Art walk and Market again at the Seawall! Come out and see Sip a Quote Stemware, Island Honey, Soaps by Debbi and Elaine with dried herbs and beautiful handmade stonework and jewelry at the Seawall this Saturday from 9:00-6:00.
As a community, we are constantly asking island residents to be neighborly by maintaining yards, adhering to no wake zones, monitoring motion lights shining into canals, etc. Putting a dog park next to multiple families’ homes is at the top of the list of UNNEIGHBORLY things to do.
You can find From the Garden at the Island Presbyterian Church as usual at 8:00am. Don’t forget to preorder your eggs and veggies, visit http://www.from-the-garden-odem.com to place your order. This week they will have LOTS of eggs, swiss chard, sweet and hot peppers and a variety of house plants.
A 2-3 acre dog park within a less than 9 acre park is huge! One acre is 43,560 square feet. A football field is 48,000 sq. ft. The proposed dog park will be comparable to two football fields! The perimeter of the dog park will likely lie within a house width of surrounding homes.
We are also VERY excited to welcome IGIC Fresh Foods and Gourmet Coffee Shop to our Market. Check them out on Facebook https:// www.facebook.com/IGIC.Cafe!! They will be set up at the Island Presbyterian Church as well so be sure to come out and see what the fuss is all about!!
While the POA and dog park group fully support the Aquarius Park location, it has not been approved by the city, which actually owns the park. It is not too late to do the right thing by surveying the public and moving the dog park to a location with more space that is not up against property owners’ homes. There are plenty of multi-family dwelling residents who would frequent a dog park more than owners who have backyards for their dogs to use at will. A more appropriate place for a dog park would be at Billish Park or Commodore Park, both of which have almost double the space, better accessibility, and multi-family units nearby.
Thanks again Dale! See you Saturday! Kelli DeNovellis
Rhonda Beadle, on Behalf of the Aquarius Park Residents
JFK Causeway toll booth ca. 1950
Commercial Properties For Sale From $60,000 to $12,000,000
2
Multi Family Units For Sale For $329,900 and $375,000
178
Padre Island Lots or Land For Sale
59
Parcels on a Canal or Water From $99,999 to $672,000
119
Parcels not on the Water From $32,000 to $899,000
215
Padre Island Residences For Sale
85
Attached Homes For Sale From $42,500 to $509,000
78
Detached Homes on the Water From $259,000 to $2,200,000
52
Detached Homes not on the Water From $145,900 to $299,500
Mustang Island Real Estate Ticker
Sincerely,
11
16
Commercial Properties For Sale From $125,000 to $3,000,000
1
Multi Family Unit For Sale For $599,000
1
Boat Slip For Sale For $35,000
186
Mustang Island Lots or Land For Sale
28
Parcels on a Canal or Water From $154,900 to $5,650,000
158
Parcels not on the Water From $35,000 to $3,400,000
227
Mustang Island Residences For Sale
157
Attached Homes For Sale From $79,500 to $895,000
16
Detached Homes on the Water From $479,000 to $1,995,000
54
Detached Homes not on the Water From $169,000 to $22,400,000
Ace Hardware Holiday Inn Texas Star (Shell) Jesse’s Liquor Padre Isles Country Club
Subway
Duckworth Antiques
Holly I.
Real Estate continued from A1
Island Italian
Wash Board Laundry Mat
Chamber of Commerce
Thank you for your time and I do enjoy reading your paper. I think the Island Moon is a great resource of information for visitors, as well as, residents here on the island. Keep up the great work you do.
July 18, 2013
Isle Mail N More
Scuttlebutt’s Restaurant
Public Library
One more bit of info for you regarding the 21 year old male that was not arrested at the scene (of a recent burglary on Eaglesnest) . He does reside here on the island. I will not mention his name his vehicle or his address so I don’t compromise the on going investigation with him. I would like to praise the Corpus Christi police department for taking this incident at my home seriously. All officers involved and detective have done a great job with the case and am pleased to see the new charges against the ex convict (involved).. He was not on parole at the time of the theft although he was recently released from prison.
Snoopy’s Pier
San Juan’s Taqueria
Port A Parks and Rec
Additionally, I have yet to find ANYONE on the Island who says they would want a dog park directly behind/adjacent to THEIR home. The people directly impacted by choosing this location keep being told that everyone else on the island wants a dog park—specifically in our backyards! I know many people, including those who are dog owners, who have no intention of using the dog park, particularly one they have to pay yearly fees to use. There have been no surveys of the island residents and no consideration given for those who live near the park about how this will impact them. Like many people on the island, we spend the bulk of our time in our backyards eating, relaxing, and entertaining.
Island Moon,
Island Tire And all Moon retail advertisers
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July 18, 2013
Island Moon
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South Side Marine 4514 Corona Dr., Corpus Christi, TX Suspension/ Bunk Board Repair Wheel Bearing Service Galvanized Wheels/Trailer Tires Tire Pressure/Temp Monitor System Outboard Maintenance I.O. Repairs/Maintenance Jet Ski Repairs
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A7
On the Rocks
July Fishing Tournaments Outboard Fishing Tournament July 19th - 21st, 2013
By Jay Gardner I can’t believe I’m sitting here writing about this, but here we are mid-July and the crews are getting our dove leases together for this fall. “Fall” seems like a foreign term here in what is supposed to be mid-summer and we’re getting our mid-spring rains (again). It is literally pouring down rain outside as I type this, and the rain brings several things to mind. First, we are still in a serious drought, and these rains, while welcome, aren’t going to cut the mustard. Not by a long shot. A couple inches here and there isn’t going to fill up Lake Corpus Christi, which sits at a measly 15% as I type this. Sure, we got a little and it went up a couple percents, but when the evaporation level is almost 3 billion gallons a month, this trickle is a drop in the bucket. (no really! Look it up! June evaporation rates are around 8,900 acre/feet, go to an online conversion site, and do the conversion! Almost 3 billion gallons a month!). We need to actually get our one-year average rainfall (27 inches) just to get close. But, imagine the flooding that would occur if we got an inch a day for 27 days; this past rainfall has been a mere 1 inch, and streets are flooding and people are stalling after hitting puddles and suddenly lose the ability to drive rationally. (not like they did before). This town would completely shut down and turn to anarchy. Second, the rains actually flow down the storm sewer into the bays and the laguna. This brings a lot of trash and grass clippings down and pollutes the water (remind me to have a talk with those lawn-guys with the blowers that blow all the grass clippings in the streets. That is ONE. BAD..HABIT that needs to stop). Also, with all the dog droppings hitting the bays, water quality will literally go in the toilet, and we’ll have No Swim advisories on area beaches due to all the fecal coliforms being dumped out of the storm sewers. People need to clean up after your animals! Yes, in your own back yard! That stuff runs off, down the street, into the storm drains, and directly in the bays! Thirdly, people need to clean up after themselves, as there will be enough rafts of water bottles and fountain-drink cups to lash them together and sail over to Ingleside with a mariachi band on board. Rain events really bring out the worst in people here in the “SUPPOSEDLY” Sparkling City by the Sea.
Fourthly, rain events and fresh water are now known to kick off the red-organism-that-shallnot-be-named. Last year I wrote about some researchers up in College Station that discovered the correlation between lower salinities and the Karenia brevis using the brevetoxin as it’s mechanism for osmoregulation. Hopefully this doesn’t kick that stuff off and we have to deal with another massive fish kill.
However, with all the problems that come from rain, we really just have to have it, and we actually need a lot more of it. I was talking with Topdog the other day, and we realized that the zombie apocalypse isn’t complete fantasy. Just imagine if suddenly there was no more water or the water supply failed, and I don’t mean for 20 minutes. I mean “OFF”. This area would completely collapse. Wallyworlds and HEB would be mobbed for bottled water. After that was gone, those lucky few with water wells would likely be “approached” by gangs, and those with the water would then have the power. Literally. Many would die, and the rest would likely leave for other places with water. The coastal bend would return to the quiet, south Texas scrub-shrub desert that it’s always been, although with a ghost town as its new centerpiece. Think that’s fiction? Turn off your water at the main for a single day, and see what it’s like without our most precious resource.
Sorry for the gloom and doom folks, but please try to act responsibly with regards to our water resources, from conserving our drinking water to protecting our storm water. Fix that leaky toilet, go clean up the dog poop in the back yard, and I’ll see you On the Rocks when you’re done.
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A 8
Paddle For Parkinson’s 2013
Island Moon
CITY
July 18, 2013
Business Briefs
By Mona Singleterry Hope you’re having a great summer and including some ‘paddling’ activities to prepare for this year’s event! Thanks to you and with the much needed help of Pendgo Timing, 2012 was our biggest year with over 200 entrants. We raised over $15,000! Check out the 2012 Relay pictures from last year at catchthecure.org. The event is always the Saturday of Labor Day weekend, which this year is August 31st. Pre-registration is already underway at www. onestoprace.com at a discounted price from race day registration. Packet pickup will be on Friday, the night before the race at Sweet Swirl on the Island. You can sign up for a flat fee or on a pledge basis. And email us if you’re looking for a team member, we’ll try to hook you up.
for their continual support, and a gold sponsor, Mike & Cheryl Henry. Sponsorships are still available and we’re inviting businesses to provide goodies or coupons for the contestant packages. Another opportunity for business promotion! I can be contacted for more information at 960-9597, Crystal at 726-1670, or visit our website at www.catchthecure.org for more information, ‘Like’ us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Catch-theCure/150778428268415?ref=sgm. Our sincere appreciation for all of the past and future support. With your help, we WILL help find the cure for Parkinson’s!
A big thanks to Kleberg Bank in the Flour Bluff HEB who is displaying the Versa Kayak/Standup Paddle Board valued at $1,515 and already selling raffle tickets. The drawing will be held after the relay and other door prizes will be given away to those that are present. You don’t need to be present to win the Versa Board, but shipping is not included . Raffle tickets can be purchased on line, as well. Now is the time to let me know if you are interested in being a sponsor or volunteer again or for the first time. Thanks, Radiology Associates for signing up as the ‘race bib’ sponsor, The Clarks
New Advertisers The Rental Management Company & Gary Graham Realty is celebrating their 25 anniversary as a premier choice for your investment property. For assistance managing your homeowner’s association, vacation rental property or selling your home call 949-9050. American Bank is the place for the best home loan solutions. See their friendly knowledgable loan officers about your lot, refinance, construction, home equity or home purchase loan. Call 949-8070 or better yet stop by their location on the Island. Jet Pool & Spa Care by Tom Hamman formerly with Backyard Place says “He’s baaack!.” Call him at 548-9571 or email HammanTom@gmail.com.
Business Briefs MnM’s Beach Snack Shack is opening this weekend at Bob Hall Pier in a mobile unit on the beach. They will be serving, hamburgers, hot dogs, tacos, sno cones, shaved ice, Dippin’ Dots and much more.
14200 block Ambrosia 11:55 a.m. July 12 Terroristic Threat 14300 block SPID 1 a.m. July 13 1 a.m. July 13 Burglary from vehicle 11800 block SH 361 5:44 p.m. July 13 Terroristic threat with weapon 14700 block Whitecap 2:52 p.m. July 10 Criminal mischief $500-$1500 14100 block Atascadera 3 p.m. July 14 Burglary from vehicle
The Island Moon Newspaper Artwalk & Beach Market will be held at the seawall parking lot this Saturday 9 am – 6 pm and Sunday noon – 6 pm. There will also be a benefit for Tara Truett who was brutally attacked on south packary beach on July 5th. The benefit will have barbeque plates, baked goods, face painting, crafts, raffles and more.
Word has it there is an established in town dentist opening an office in the Scuttlebutt’s strip mall.
The 12 Annual Night at the Races presented by the Padre Island Rotary Club on Friday, July 19th 6 pm at the Padre Isles Country Club. This is a fun island event where you bet play money on pre-recorded horse races. The money won can be used to buy more than $5000 worth of prizes. Tickets are $35 and that includes a seafood buffet and two wine/beer tickets. They can be purchased at the club or from any Island Rotarian. The Port Aransas Art Center is holding its bi-annual Barefoot Sale all month long. Art Center artists clean out their “Art closets” and are always a fun exhibit full of great deals.
Padre Island Dog Club is being started by Bev Hoffman and she is excited about the fun activities she has in mind. To join call 949-3112.
15200 block Main Royal 9 p.m. July 11 Burglary from vehicle
Deluxe Nails now offers eyelash extensions and hot stone massage and hot paraffin wax pedicures. They pride themselves in their sanitary and professional nail service. They are open daily 9 am – 7 pm and Sundays 11 am – 5 pm. Call 949-1794 or just walk in.
Island Farmers Market vendors will be at the Island Moon Newspaper Beach Market on Saturday, July 20th 9 am – 6 pm. IGIG Fresh Foods and Gourmet Coffee Shop will be joining the vendors. The regulars will be there including Island Honey and Elaine with dried herbs.
13500 block Bullion 9 p.m. July 15 Theft of vehicle parts under $50
Scuttlebutt’s is hosting a blood drive for the Coastal Bend Blood Center pon Monday, July
Boat, Boat Trailer and Jet Ski Repair can be expertly done by Roy at South Side Marine. Call him at 854-0875.
15400 block Seamount Cay 8:30 p.m. July 15 Criminal mischief $50-$500
15300 block Isabella July 14 2:30 a.m. Assault with injury
Taz
Under the Bridge Serving South Texas Seafood for Over 30 Years Open Daily 11:00 - 10:00 AlsoScoopy’s Veranda With Sweet Treats, Soups, Salads & Sandwiches (361) 949-8815 (361) 949-7810
Café Fresca inside Mail n More is now open and serving panninis, gelato, pastries, smoothies and more. Islander Leah Pezzi is a great cook and she is excited about her first business venture.
22nd 3 pm – 7 pm. You will be able to give the gift of life and then treat yourself to some half price sushi and John Eric music.
Mad Meats & More has started construction at their location between Scuttlebutt’s and Grounded. The name comes from a combination of the owners names “M” for Melissa and the “ad” from her fiancé Chad. They plan to open in September.
Kayakers preparing to start the 2012 Paddle for Parkinson’s
Police Blotter
Snoopy’s Scoopy’s
by Mary Craft
13313 S. Padre Island Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78418
Meet Taz he was found at a house on the Island on the 4th of July, scared out of his mind. He took shelter in their side yard and stayed in the neighborhood for 5 days. Many people have been praying for this baby and trying to rescue him, but he was just too scared to trust anyone. A trap was the only way to go. Within minutes, he was showing his sweet disposition...kissing us and wanting to play. He was scanned for a microchip. The vet tech guessed his age to be 6-9 months. Without the benefit of looking in his mouth, that’s the closest age we know until he is seen by our vet. If you would like to adopt or foster Taz or would like more information on Taz, please email us at info@guardiansrescue.org. Additional photos of Taz can be seen on our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/guardiansrescue.
July 18, 2013
Island Moon
Backwater Adventures
A9
Sponsored by Waypoint Marine
Take a Kid Fishing By Joey Farah Farah’s Fishing Adventures Summer Time is not a new thing anymore as much of the rush for the Texas Coast has been taken. The kids are seeing the end of summer creep up on them and are counting the days until they are thrown back into the dungeons of the classroom. Now is the time to come out and take some time and make some of those lifetime memories with friends, family, and especially the kids. With the new changes in the number of great additions to my family we have been trying to make some of those great memories happen this summer and it has been one of many great moments. This week I’m going to challenge you all to build an adventure with your kids, grandchildren, or friend’s kids, maybe just the child down the street. Here is a few little adventures that will be expeditions in the memories of smaller hearts and eyes.
The Beach Assault We live on the edge of two worlds that come together where the waves lap onto the sand. This is a magical place where the kids can run and play explore and find their own special love for nature. Take a drive down to the National Seashore, the crowds start to diminish as you enter the park and the drive down the Island separates that beach from the one that the kids see and go to most of the time. Get out early and let them put their feet in the cool sand and climb the dunes to look over the Island, on the tallest dunes you can see both the Gulf and the Bay. Take fishing poles and some small dead shrimp. Small poles with small hooks will catch whiting of all sizes, keep the big ones to eat and use the small fish for cut bait on the larger poles for sharks. Lots of small sharks are in the surf right now and are easy to catch. Use a triangle weight so keep the line from being swept down the beach. Heavy monofilament leader will work for the small sharks, 40lb test. If you are getting broke off switch to some simple premade wire leaders from the store. The sharks feel the metal, so you will get more strikes from the mono. Be sure to follow the Texas Parks and Wildlife rules because not all sharks are “keepers”. Every child has a fascination for the shark, my son started this summer off on a two year quest to catch a shark and now he has a seven footer under his belt, but his face was just as lit up with the first small two foot shark he caught as his first.
Tricky sharks and thick trout Be careful they bite! Even after they look dead
they will turn around and grab you with their razor teeth. The trout are thick in the surf now and for the next two months. The best times are sunrise and sunset, top waters and mirror-lures, live croaker piggy’s and shrimp. Top waters danced across the first and second gut at high tide can produce explosive hits from anything that swims in the sea. Take your kid out and let them throw out a top water and they will be able to see the bait, and learn what rod movements make the lure work best. It is an easy quick two hour run and gun fishing trip that usually produces a few good fish for supper. If they are having some trouble with the top water, give them a large silver spoon, this bait can be easily thrown very far and all you have to do is crank it in. Bob Hall Pier was a great place and adventure long before I was a kid and long after. We would beg and plead my mom to drop us off for an all-day adventure. A few bucks and some poles kept us busy all day. The best thing about the pier is that you can get out and above the waves and see so much. The sand guts roll out towards the end of the pier and any of them can be hot at any time. It is a good chance to see how other people are fishing and learn from both catching and not catching. I can remember seeing big sharks, tarpon under the pier, giant sheep head, spadefish, and catching Spanish mackerel. The Spanish Mackerel were my favorite, they fight like crazy, hit in a flash and can be caught on lures. We would work the pier all day with speck rigs, spoons, and diving crank baits. The secret on the pier is a fast retrieve. To get your bait down use a small slip weight above a swivel before your leader. When you are working your bait bend over and point your rod tip down towards the water. The Spanish will side swipe your bait at amazing
Island residents John, Molly and Patrick DeLeon caught there limit of trout along with some bigger trout using rattles with live bait alone the flour bluff shoreline.
Tides of the Week
Tides for Corpus Christi (Bob Hall Pier) July 18 -25 2013
Day
High /Low
Tide Time
Th F Sa Su M Tu W Th
18 18 19 19 20 20 21 21 22 22 23 23 23 23 24 24 24 24 25 25
High Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High Low High Low
3:00 AM 5:52 PM 3:42 AM 6:48 PM 4:23 AM 7:45 PM 5:02 AM 8:41 PM 5:37 AM 9:36 PM 6:04 AM 11:39 AM 2:11 PM 10:29 PM 6:25 AM 11:57 AM 3:40 PM 11:21 PM 6:40 AM 12:28 PM
Height Feet
Sunrise Sunset
Moon Time
% Moon Visible
1.4 -0.6 1.6 -0.7 1.7 -0.8 1.7 -0.8 1.7 -0.7 1.5 1.2 1.3 -0.5 1.4 1.0 1.2 -0.2 1.2 0.8
6:45 AM 8:25 PM 6:45 AM 8:25 PM 6:46 AM 8:24 PM 6:47 AM 8:24 PM 6:47 AM 8:23 PM 6:48 AM 8:23 PM
Set 2:31 AM Rise 4:26 PM Set 3:26 AM Rise 5:29 PM Set 4:27 AM Rise 6:30 PM Set 5:32 AM Rise 7:27 PM Set 6:39 AM Rise 8:19 PM Set 7:47 AM Rise 9:06 PM
68
speeds. These fish are great eating and much better than the King Mackerel. The best thing about the beach is that every kid can find his or her favorite thing to do. Some surf, some climb the dunes, fish, gather sea shells, dig holes or just feed the sea gulls. Whatever it is let them have fun and keep them covered in sunscreen and away from traffic.
On the Boat
Kendal Harmon Farah with her first shark, sharks are I’m taking kids out on my boat all the time and what they thick right now and on every kids wish list. Start off at the close rigs with cut bait. remember as their favorite times are not necessarily the same as the adults. They all want to catch keeper fish will definitely bring more reds to the dock. but their attention span is not as long as ours, The croakers are getting a bit large so try some neither is their want or desire to accomplish piggy perch over sandy bottoms. They tend to goals like limiting out or catching their lifetime hide much more against any kind of structure trout. When they are with you concentrate on than the croakers. them. Fish for a while then School is right around the go down to the mouth of corner and our Island crowd the bay and look for hermit is mellowing out a bit. Take crabs and shells. Get out some time to make some on one of the big islands summer memories with and look around. I’ve said the kids and get out and many times in past articles let them entertain you. The take a seine net and get most gratifying trips in the them out pulling in all outdoors is seeing someone kinds of species. Let the else fall in love with what kids drive the boat and then Steve Valone with a great upper slot you already know. We find some quiet beach with afternoon redfish almond the Flour have been getting ready clean water and get out and for FOOTBALL! Joey has Bluff shoreline. swim. The opportunity to started his conditioning pull up and get lunch in the already every week day boat is an adventure that they will not forget as for youth football here at Flour Bluff. I urge well. They feel like they are special in that they anyone that has a child that wants to be a part of didn’t get there by car, and they are. Port A is a a great team and learn much more about being great place to just wander around by boat and a great young athlete and person give Coach park and walk. You can’t get any better than Lance Howard a call so he can set you up and Snoopy’s for a sunset cruise and dinner. get your young athlete started. We have four different age groups and pride, respect, and hard Fishing is Hot! work are the key focus. (361)442-7214 For any The fishing this month has been awesome, questions or to get a little help getting out on the lots of big fish and good numbers. Myself and water give me a call or follow us on Facebook at others have not been able to anchor up and just Joeyfarah’s fishing. (361)442-8145 slay the fish thirty and forty at a time anywhere. By getting in the right areas and making small moves staying close to the action and catching a box full two and four at a time. Boat noise is very important now in the busiest time of year. After a few minutes and a few fish things will quiet down, so just pick up the anchor and drift ahead 75yds. Small groups of fish will fire up and become active as baits hit the water and the thrashing of trout on the surface spreads through the area. During the peak feeding times you can stay in one spot and fish from the surrounding areas will come in towards the feeding action. Redfish have been feeding in the afternoon much more than in the morning. Our afternoon trips have been blessed with big reds every time. Another good group of local residents with visiting friends enjoying the great trout The emergence of piggy perch at the bait stands bite right now in the upper Lagoon.
78 87 94 98 99
6:48 AM 8:22 PM
Set 8:53 AM Rise 9:50 PM
98
6:49 AM 8:22 PM
Set 9:56 AM Rise 10:30 PM
93
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Island Moon
July 18, 2013