CC MAGAZINE
AUGUST 2012
STANLEY ORCHARD OPENING THE DOORS OF CREATIVITY
RIGS TO REEFS
FEDERAL RED TAPE KILLS FISH AND DESTROYS HABITAT
BE SMART EAT LOCAL
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CC MAGAZINE
JEFF CRAFT Publisher
JCRAFT@CCMAGONLINE.COM
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Samantha Koepp, Dale Rankin, Georgia Griffin, Ronnie Narmour, Aletha Eyerman, Susan Giesing, Chelsea Newman
PHOTOGRAPHY Miles Merwin, Jeff Dolan, Janette Park-Rankin Dale Rankin, Georgia Griffin, Max Strycharske, Ronnie Narmour, Chelsea Newman Cover: El Diamonte Del Sur 2012, Stanley Orchard
CONTACT CC @ 361.443.2137 361.949.7700 505 S Water St Suite 545 Corpus Christi, Tx 78401
ADVERTISING JEFF CRAFT 361.443.2137 JAN RANKIN 361.949.7700
From the Publisher... Whenever I'm at a loss for something to do, I think to myself- people come here for vacation- so I just pretend I'm on vacation, and do what they do. I've lived here for six years now and I still haven't got through the list. I keep putting of skydiving because I'm chicken, but last week I finally took the family on a sunset cruise out of Port A on the Wharf Cat. Captain Jay Yeaney took us around the bay. We saw dolphins playing and showing off, the kids loved it, the ride was smooth and nobody got seasick. The best part is that it didn't cost much at all- check them out at wharfcat.com.
Destination Unknown As we are putting this issue to bed, the city council has just announced that it decided not to put the $60 Million bond issue for Destination Bayfront on the November ballot. While I've supported Destination Bayfront from the beginning, I also understand the argument on the other side. It is a lot of money, and we're looking at some big bills coming down the line that have to be paid, so it might be best if we put off running up the credit cards right now. But that's a decision that we all should have made together in November. I think there's a false assumption among the good people in city government that the volunteers who created Destination Bayfront will stick around waiting for another chance. A lot of people put a lot of time and hard work into the project and felt stunned and betrayed by the decision to not put the bond on the ballot. Instead of a vigorous debate on the merits of the package, followed by a vote, the people of CC were cut out of the process and we had to watch condescending lectures from city council members, as if Destination Bayfront was a group of spoiled children asking for a pony. The Destination Bayfront volunteers worked with city council and staff every step of the way. There were opportunities to work together to find a way to make the project work, instead, the Destination Bayfront group was left out of the discussion, and all of us were taken out of the decision making process.
Your minimum payment is going up We just maxed out the credit cards on street repairs? Really? Even without Destination Bayfront, the bond issue the council agreed to put on the ballot will almost certainly increase taxes. The city can borrow up to $55 Million in this bond issue without raising taxes because that's how much old bond money is being retired. (If they didn't borrow any more money, your taxes would go down.) The total amount of the street bond is $55 Million, and since that's very likely to pass, every one of the other bonds on the November ballot represents a tax increase. We'll explore this topic more in the next issue. For now, enjoy your August, give thanks every day for air conditioning, and go swimming!
Jeff Craft
Carpet Cleaning
© Copyright 2011 all rights reserved. CC Publishing, LLC reserves the right to edit, rewrite & refuse editorial materials and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors, omissions, or consequence arising from it. CC magazine shall be held harmless indemnified against any third party claims. CC Publishing, LLC accepts no claims made by agents, contributors or photographers. Opinions expressed by contributing writers or columnists are not necessarily those of CC Publishing, LLC or its affiliates. Advertisers appearing in CC magazine present only the viewpoint of the advertisers. CC magazine is printed in the USA. We assume no responsibility for advertising claims made in this publication. All correspondence to this publication becomes the property of CC magazine. Publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without express permission of the publisher and author(s).
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Farm Fresh & Safe In a world full of genetically modified, preservative saturated, hormone laden food, it’s hard to find a delectable treat that doesn’t deliver more harm than good. Fortunately, Corpus Christi residents have a healthy solution that hits close to home – A Downtown Corpus Christi Farmers Market.
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Stanley Orchard “There are a couple of things I would really like to see the young artists in the area do. For starters, learn the rules and apply them. The Elements of Design are there to improve your art, not hamper it. Look at it as a challenge. And don't be that guy who does a painting and slaps an arbitrary $1,000 price tag on it... Just enjoy what you do!”
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Mariachi Vargas
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They're magical. Their music is uplifting, emotional and fulfilling in so many ways. And the audiences' participation is just as entertaining when more than two thousand people sing along with Mariachi Vargas in songs like Que te ha dado esa mujer.
06
Inside the Center
12 Live Music tonight 13 Art Scene 16 Dining Guide 19 The Lenz
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Rigs to Reefs Red Tape is Deadly to Fish They attach explosives to each of the legs then touch off the blast. The force sends a shock wave up and down the vertical ecosystem which has developed over many years and in a few seconds the surface of the water is lined with dead fish. The fish you see in this photo are mostly Red Snapper who made this offshore rig their habitat only to get caught in the blowback of a federal program that makes it financially impossible for the rigs to be turned into reefs.
Center INSIDE THE
South Texas Oilfield Expo
By Samantha Koepp Most likely if you live in Corpus Christi you know someone who works in the oil and gas industry; there are over 400 companies just within our community. With the success of Eagle Ford Shale, we continue to reap the benefits through job growth and economic impact. According to a recent press release distributed by the Corpus Christi Convention & Visitor’s Bureau, over 3,800 jobs have been created and the local economy has received a surplus though sales tax on a “reported $1.2 billion in gross county product.” And now thanks to the oil boom in Corpus Christi, trade show management company Texas Classic Productions has chosen our city as the site for their 2012 South Texas Oilfield Expo, taking place
September 19th and 20th at the American Bank Center Convention Center. Even before the Expo brings thousands of attendees and exhibitors, they have already impacted our community. In July, Texas Classic Productions, the professional trade show management company responsible for the South Texas Oilfield Expo, donated a total of $15,000 to six local non-profit organizations, with each group receiving a check for $2,500. Organizations receiving donations included CASA of the Coastal Bend, The Ark of South Texas, The Women’s Shelter of South Texas, The Ronald McDonald House and the Rise School. The remaining check was left by TCP President Eli Logan, who empowered the Corpus Christi CVB and the City of Corpus Christi to determine the sixth organization to receive funding. The Expo itself is expected to bring over 15,000 oil and gas professionals from across the country to the American Bank Center Convention Center for the two days it is held. Over 2,000 exhibitors in over 500 booths will be on site to promote their products and services. The show will also present an opportunity for attendees to learn more about the latest advancements in industry technologies and network with key industry decision-makers. The major sponsors of the South Texas Oilfield Expo are: Coastal Bend Chevy Dealerships, the official truck of the South Texas
Oilfield Expo, Abutec LLC, Ainsworth Trucking, Coil Solutions Inc., FinalRod, Impac Mfg., John Crane Production Solutions, Lone Star Safety & Supply, Magnum Oil Tools International Ltd., McAda Drilling Fluids, Quality Mat Company, Rock Water Energy Solutions, Safoco Inc., Synergy Wireline Equipment, Texas First Industrial, and Unison Drilling. Aside from countless displays of smaller equipment and technology inside the American Bank Center, the show will also feature a massive heavy equipment area in the parking lot directly adjacent to the facility. The Expo is open exclusively to oil and gas industry professionals, or those connected to the industry in a tangible way such as students or landowners with oilfield interests. Those interested in pre-registering to attend can do so for free for a limited time only at southtexasoilfieldexpo.com/register-to-attend. For more information about the 2012 South Texas Oilfield Expo, visit the show’s website at southtexasoilfieldexpo.com, like it on Facebook at facebook.com/pages/South-TexasOilfield-Expo/391011410916619, and follow it on Twitter @ STXOilfieldExpo. The American Bank Center is Corpus Christi’s premier event center providing unprecedented guest experiences. For more information, visit us online at www.americanbankcenter.com , find us on Facebook at facebook.com/AmericanBankCenter and follow us on Twitter @AmericanBankCtr.
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From Farm to Table:
Corpus Christi Gets Fresh Corpus Christi’s local farmers and business owners are reminding the community why it’s important to keep it close to home. By Chelsea Newman In a world full of genetically modified, preservative saturated, hormone laden food, it’s hard to find a delectable treat that doesn’t deliver more harm than good. Fortunately, Corpus Christi residents have a healthy solution that hits close to home – A Downtown Corpus Christi Farmers Market. Located in the heart of the city, parallel to the scenic Ocean Drive route – 505 S. Water Street, to be exact – you’ll find a vast array of freshly grown fruits and vegetables, organically cultivated eggs and meat, aromatic soaps and candles, and ingeniously mixed sauces; all ingredients derived within 100 miles of the city limits. The Downtown Farmers Market started in March of this year, and market manager Aislynn Campbell says she already can’t believe the turnout. “People are really excited about having a Downtown Farmers Market,” Campbell said. “On opening Wednesday, we had nearly 500 people attend!” And every week, more are coming.
Food Fit for Your Palate Whether you’re looking for homegrown squash, raw honey, or eggs free of assembly-line contamination, vendors at the Downtown Farmer’s Market are working hard to bring you the best food around, at a price that’s hard to beat.
growing their own food nearly 15 years ago to feed their family, and believe it’s their duty to spread this excellent practice to all in the community who want to take part. After all, as experts, they know all about the benefits.
Andrew Edelen, a dedicated agriculturalist at Edelen Farms, just south of Alice, brings his family’s eggs, meat, and honey week after week – and takes pride in the quality of the food he offers. “All our products are grass-fed, growth hormone free, organically raised, with zero antibiotics or pesticides,” Edelen said. “Our animals aren’t confined to feed lots, either.” An effort that Edelen says is purely rewarding, he and his family began 08
“Most store-bought food is just so bad for you --- eating this way is so much better! Plus, by buying from the Farmers Market, you’re supporting your local community; what could be better?” Keith and Laura McNew, proud owners of “Hair of the Dog, Inc.,” bring some homemade items to the market as well, including salsa that’s hot enough to kick a hangover.
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As the only “Grade A” Goat Dairy to be found in South Texas – straight out of Alice - Lorberau Farms is dedicated to the development of quality cheese that’s fit for consumer’s liking. And more specifically, THIS community’s liking. “We get to supply the costal bend with nutritious food that is made by somebody they can see, talk with, and support. You’re reducing mileage on your food, and you’re actually eating healthier by eating goat cheese, as opposed to cow’s milk cheese,” Cassie Zinke, Lorberau farms market specialist, explains. “It’s double the protein and half the fat of cow’s milk cheese, and people that are lactose intolerant can actually digest it. It’s all-around wonderful!” Lorberau Farms has a variety of flavorful cheese options to delight in, including a “Plain Old Jane,” “Peaches and Crème,” and a seasonal “Sun-dried Tomato.” And that’s just a few. “What we have is a mutually-beneficial relationship,” said Zinke. “We have customers that come back every week and we know what they love. In turn, they love us.” “Our products are generational keepsakes, handed down our family line from nearly 100 years ago,” said Laura. “They’re made with love and sold with pride.” The McNew’s bring other fine items to the market as well: bloody Mary mix, hot sauce, and shrimp boil, to name a few. Each is comprised of the freshest ingredients, void of artificial flavor and colorings. And for all food connoisseurs interested in becoming vendors, it’s vital to get in touch with the Texas Department of State Health Services to ensure you are properly inspected, permitted, and ready to share your good grub with the hungry community. “I’ve been to the Downtown Farmers Market a few times – a great experience,” said Gloria Diaz of the Texas Public Health Department. “Whether it’s meat, eggs, or canned goods, it’s important to first get in touch with us, so we can get you properly set up; once you have a vendor’s permit, you’re good-to-go.”
Holy Cow! Or, Holy Goat? Of the many fantastically fresh items you’ll find during your time at the Downtown Corpus Christi Farmers Market, Lorberau Farms “Grade A” Goat Cheese is sure to be among them.
Here to Sustain, and Entertain This lively market, open every Wednesday from 5 to 7 pm, is purposed not only to bring good food to your table, but provide some mid-week entertainment as well. Attendees are encouraged to come with an appetite for good food, an ear for upbeat tunes, and a bottle of your favorite wine – or another beverage of your choice – to drink. In this fun and friendly courtyard setting, there’s no doubt you’ll want to stick around. “We’re striving for a “Happy Hour” motif, where locals can count on a relaxing and community-oriented mid-week event,” Campbell said. “In a destination-style fashion, we want locals to see it both as a fun thing to do in the downtown area, as well as part of people’s weekly routines.” And, as an event that immediately follows regular working hours, it’s a perfect stop-and-shop on your way home – and a chance to “take a load off” after a long, hard day’s work. So, to all Corpus Christi residents looking to promote a happier community and a healthier you, mark your calendars for the can’t-miss Downtown Corpus Christi Farmer’s Market every Wednesday at 5 pm. For more information on the Downtown Corpus Christi Farmers Market, please contact Aislynn Campbell by email at aislynn@freedomharvestfarms. com.
THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS WHEN AN OLD OIL PLATFORM IS REMOVED
in a misguided attempt to save natural habitats , federal regulators are destroying them By Dale Rankin They attach explosives to each of the legs then touch off the blast. The force sends a shock wave up and down the vertical ecosystem which has developed over many years and in a few seconds the surface of the water is lined with dead fish. The fish you see in this photo are mostly Red Snapper who made this offshore rig their habitat only to get caught in the blowback of a federal program that makes it financially impossible for the rigs to be turned into reefs. For the past two years, the Federal government has been forcing oil companies to remove abandoned oil platforms off the Texas Coast. The idea behind the forced removal is that the rigs are an affront to the environment and while they may be relocated to be used as reefs they may not be placed within a five-mile radius of any existing rigs. While this may seem like a small clause in a thousand-plus page bill, it has in fact stopped the reefing of rigs in Texas waters for the simple reason that the cost of the barge and subsequent equipment needed to convert the rig to a reef is about $250,000 per day. To convert the old rig to a reef without moving it takes one day of work from the barge. But if the rig is located within five miles of another rig, which most of them are, it takes three days use of the barge – one to pick it up, one to transport, and one to drop it in its new location. This increases the cost of converting the rig to a reef from $250,000 to at least $750,000 – plus whatever additional personnel costs incur over the additional two days. Since the barge is needed for only one day if the rig is removed, oil companies have understandably been reluctant to relocate them. Instead they use explosives to blast the legs free below the surface and the result is the massive fish kill you see here. This photo was is a picture that was recently taken just a few weeks ago 10
offshore from Corpus Christi. On the way out for a day of fishing in the Gulf, a local fisherman went by this rig on the way to another rig to fish. A while later they thought they heard thunder off in the distance. There was no sign of rain, so they continued fishing. Later, on their way back, they found the fish kill seen in the picture and remembered that on the way out there had been a rig located there. What they had heard was the explosion when the rig was blown from its foundation during the removal process. Due to the mostly featureless Gulf floor off the Texas coast the rigs become their own ecosystems and attract large numbers of fish, like the Red Snappers seen here. U.S. Rep. Farenthold, (Dist. 27 which includes Corpus Christi) has introduced a bill that would put a moratorium on the removal of rigs for two years while a long-term solution to the problem is found. Specifically, H.R. 6208, the Retaining Essential Environmental Fishing Structures (REEFS) Act would place a two year moratorium on an October 2010 Department of Interior (DOI) directive to remove all non-producing oil rigs from the Gulf of Mexico. “Now, almost two years after the DOI directive the Gulf Coast is feeling the negative impacts of this directive as important habitats are being removed,” Farenthold said. “The REEFS Act stops a misguided DOI directive requiring removal of safely plugged rigs from the Gulf of Mexico, destroying valuable ecosystems. Fishermen, divers, the oil industry and even our school children understand the important role these artificial habitats play in both the economy and ecology of the Gulf. The REEFS Act gives the Government time to find a common sense long-term solution to save man made reefs instead of removing decades of environmental progress.” To see a live video feed of fish and other sea life that forms around an off-shore rig see the website SaveTheBlue.org.
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The Coastal Bend's Most Complete Live Music Calendar
Compiled by Ronnie Narmour
Thursday, August 9 Mike Milligan & the Altar Boys @ Back Porch Kyle Park/ John Slaughter @ Brewster Street Free Beer Band @ Tarpon Ice House John Cortez @ Doctor Rockits Kyle Park/ John Slaughter @ Brewster Street Shadow Moon @ The Sea Wall
Friday, August 10 Six Market Blvd. @ Back Porch Ray T & the City Crew @ The Flats Lounge Samantha Aiken & Rodeo Drive Band @ Sunset Sounds- Roberts Point Park Pride & Joy @ Doctor Rockits The Booked/ Grey Bliss/ Jiffy @ House of Rock Lyrical Bynge @ Executive Surf Club Another Level @ Brewster Street Mike Williams @ Hemingways Rockport David & Barbara Brown @ Coffee Waves Hilda Lamas Band @ The Sea Wall
Saturday, August 11 Miss Neesie & the Earfood Orchestra @ Back Porch Lisa Morales @ Third Coast Theater Texas Tornadoes @ Whataburger Field Mether Media @ House of Rock Ruben V @ Doctor Rockits Paul Renna @ Executive Surf Club Second Saturday Sing-Along Piano Show @ Brewster Street Mike Williams @ Hemingways Rockport Earl Gard @ Coffee Waves The Daze @ The Sea Wall
Sunday, August 12 Open Electric Jam w/ Rockin’ Ricke @ Tarpon Ice House Creed @ Concrete Street Flat Broke @ Doctor Rockits Mike Guerra & John (Chopper) Lopez @ The Sea Wall
Monday, August 13 Open Jam w/ Antone Perez @ Doctor Rockits Acoustic Monday w/ Colin Roche @ House of Rock
Tuesday, August 14 Tiffany Tuesday @ Tarpon Ice House Open Mic w/ Rev. Matt Martinez @ House of Rock Justin Estes Band @ Doctor Rockits
Wednesday, August 15 Mr. Mo’s Blues Jam @ Tarpon Ice House Open Mic @ Executive Surf Club Open Mic w/ Wolfjaw @ Flat’s Lounge Bad Chords @ Doctor Rockits
Thursday, August 16 Capt. Legendary @ Back Porch Free Beer Band @ Tarpon Ice House Girl in a Coma/ ECHO/ Canvas Waiting @ House of Rock Antone & the All Stars @ Doctor Rockits Kevin Fowler @ Brewster Street TBA @ The Sea Wall If your venue or show isn’t listed, let us know! we’ll get your dates in the next issue. Send your dates to Ronnie Narmour at ronnienarmour@gmail.com
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Live Music Tonight
Sponsored by
Friday, August 17 Davin James @ Back Porch Ray T & the City Crew @ The Flats Lounge The Groove @ Doctor Rockits Cruise Control @ Executive Surf Club The Klocks @ Brewster Street Mike Williams @ Hemingways Rockport The Forefront @ Coffee Waves Eclipse @ The Sea Wall
Hours Sun, Tues-Thurs... 11:00AM till 10:00PM
415 D
Closed MONDAY
Corpus
Fri-Sat 11:00AM-Midnight Live music Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Saturday, August 18 Josh Weathers & The True Endeavors @ Back Porch Palacios Brothers @ Doctor Rockits Cathy Harrison @ House of Rock Phil Pritchett @ Executive Surf Club Metal Shop @ Brewster Street Mike Williams @ Hemingways Rockport C. Roots @ Coffee Waves Eclipse @ The Sea Wall
520 S Shoreline Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361-726-3533
KSpac Hours
Free A
Septem
First F
Burgers, Seafood, Salads, Sandwiches
Augus
Dog Friendly ● Full Bar
Show
Main G
check us out on Urbanspoon.com
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Sunday, August 19
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Open Electric Jam w/ Rockin’ Ricke @ Tarpon Ice House Radio la Chusma @ Doctor Rockits Mike Guerra & John (Chopper) Lopez @ The Sea Wall
Monday, August 20 Open Jam w/ Antone Perez @ Doctor Rockits Acoustic Night with Colin Roche @ House of Rock
100 S
Corpus
Tuesday, August 21
Tel: 3
Fax: 3
Tiffany Tuesday @ Tarpon Ice House Open Mic w/ Rev. Matt Martinez @ House of Rock Justin Estes Band @ Doctor Rockits
Saturday, August 25 Mike Williams @ Hemingways Rockport Chris Gober @ Coffee Waves Another Level @ The Sea Wall
Wednesday, August 22 Mr. Mo’s Blues Jam @ Tarpon Ice House Air Guitar Contest/ John Cortez Blues Jam @ House of Rock Open Mic @ Executive Surf Club Open Mic w/ Wolfjaw @ Flat’s Lounge Party of Three @ Doctor Rockits
Sunday, August 26 Open Electric Jam w/ Rockin’ Ricke @ Tarpon Ice House Dusty Low @ Doctor Rockits Mike Guerra & John (Chopper) Lopez @ The Sea Wall
Thursday, August 23 Cody Angel @ Back Porch Buster Jiggs @ House of Rock Aaron Watson/ Rankin Twins @ Brewster Street Free Beer Band @ Tarpon Ice House John Cortez @ Doctor Rockits Aaron Watson/ Rankin Twins @ Brewster Street Shadow Moon @ The Sea Wall
Monday, August 27 Open Jam w/ Antone Perez @ Doctor Rockits Acoustic Night w/ Colin Roche @ House of Rock
Tuesday, August 28 Tiffany Tuesday @ Tarpon Ice House Open Mic w/ Rev. Matt Martinez @ House of Rock Justin Estes Band @ Doctor Rockits Mariachi Vargas @ American Bank Center
Friday, August 24 Darryl Lee Rush @ Back Porch Ray T & the City Crew @ The Flats Lounge John Cortez @ Doctor Rockits The Groove @ Executive Surf Club Le Freak @ Brewster Street Mike Williams @ Hemingways Rockport David & Barbara Brown @ Coffee Waves Hilda Lamas Band @ The Sea Wall
Wednesday, August 29 Mr. Mo’s Blues Jam @ Tarpon Ice House HOBO @ House of Rock Open Mic @ Executive Surf Club Open Mic w/ Wolfjaw @ Flat’s Lounge Neil Edwards @ Doctor Rockits
Thursday, August 30
Saturday, August 25 Dust Devils @ Back Porch Joe Mack @ Tarpon Ice House CC70D Awards Ceremony @ House of Rock The Damn Quails @ Third Coast Theater Backbone Child @ Doctor Rockits Scarecrow People @ Executive Surf Club Rat Ranch @ Brewster Street
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TBA @ Back Porch Local Licks @ House of Rock Free Beer Band @ Tarpon Ice House Antone & the All Stars @ Doctor Rockits Bart Crow/ Thieving Birds @ Brewster Street Mike Guerra & John (Chopper) Lopez @ The Sea Wall
ArtCen
Friday, August 31 TBA @ Back Porch Cathouse/ John Cortez Band/ v Twin/ Dark Energy @ House of Rock Ray T & the City Crew @ The Flats Lounge Rosie Flores @ Doctor Rockits Mike Williams @ Hemingways Rockport Gary Moeller @ Coffee Waves Hilda Lamas Band @ The Sea Wall
Hours
Everyd
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First F
Augus
Tables Courty
Saturday, September 1 Larry Joe Taylor @ Back Porch Randy Rogers/ Turnpike Troubadours/ Cody Johnson @ Concrete Street Mike Williams @ Hemingways Rockport The Forefront @ Coffee Waves Profile @ The Sea Wall
Sunday, September 2 Open Electric Jam w/ Rockin’ Ricke @ Tarpon Ice House Ken Barnett @ Coffee Waves Mike Guerra & John (Chopper) Lopez @ The Sea Wall
Monday, September 3 Open Jam w/ Antone Perez @ Doctor Rockits Spark in the Dark @ Coffee Waves
Tuesday, September 4 Tiffany Tuesday @ Tarpon Ice House Open Mic w/ Rev. Matt Martinez @ House of Rock
Wednesday, September 5 Mr. Mo’s Blues Jam @ Tarpon Ice House Open Mic @ Executive Surf Club Open Mic w/ Wolfjaw @ Flat’s Lounge
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Art Scene
A Few Items Of Note For August & September
K Space Contemporary 415 D Starr Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.887.6834 KSpaceContemporary.org Hours: Wed-Sat 11a – 5p Free Admission September Spectacular Salon
Treehouse Art Collective LLC
902 Navigation Circle
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Rockport, Texas 78382
361.882.4822
Tel: 361.729.5519
TreehouseArtCC.com
RockportArtCenter.com
Hours:
Hours: Tues – Sat, 10a – 4p
Tue-Sat
11a – 8p
Sundays, 1p – 4p
Sunday
Noon to 6p
Closed Mondays
Free Admission
Always Free Admission
The World through our Artist Eyes
Standing Out: Reception for 2012 Merit Artists
A collective of 6 core artists, and a varying group of associate artists, who exhibit and sell their artwork in all manner of media.
First Friday ArtWALK August 31st, 5:30-9pm Show hangs through September 8th
First Friday ArtWALK
Main Gallery
om
Featured Artist: Lisa Olsen
6th Annual Juried Show
August 3rd - 5:30p to 9p
m
Exhibition Opening Reception
First Friday ArtWALK
Saturday, September 15th, 6p to 8p
September Featured Artist to be Announced
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2012 Juror – Christina Rees Christina Rees is the curator of Moudy Gallery and Forth Worth Contemporary Arts at Texas Christian University. A self-professed art lover and pot-stirrer, Ms. Rees has worked as a writer, editor, columnist and critic in the fields of visual art, film and music. The Irving, TX, native is also the former owner-director of Road Agent, a contemporary art gallery in Dallas.
Art Center of Corpus Christi 100 Shoreline Blvd
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CCFestivalArts.org By Appointment Only Lisa Olsen
Art Museum of South Texas Corpus Christi, TX 78401
505 S Water Street, Suite 545
Tues - Sat 10a to 5p
Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.883.9123
Sundays 1p to 5p
TangoFandango.com Hours: Mon - Thurs. 10a - 7p
$8
Fri & Sat 10a - 9p Sunday Noon - 6p
Students (13+) $4
Everyday except Monday
August 3rd & 31st from 6p to 9p
Tango Tea Room
STIA.org
Active Military $6
Hours: 10a – 4p
First Friday, ArtWALK
Tel: 361.825.3500
Seniors (60 and older) $6
ArtCenterCC.org
Always Free Admission
A different featured artist every month, and guest lectures quarterly.
1902 N. Shoreline Blvd
Adults
Fax: 361.884.8836
Festival of the Arts The Merriman-Bobys House Corpus Christi, Texas 78401
Admission:
Tel: 361.884.6406
All members, Children 12 and under, Texas A&M University-CC students Free Admission
First Friday ArtWALK
August 3rd, 2012, 5:30-9pm
Free Admission every First Friday in honor of ArtWALK!
First Friday ArtWALK
Tables of artists and artisan vendors in and around the Courtyard, every First Friday!!
15th National Exhibition of American Society of Marine Artists
Featured Artist: Georgia Griffin
Monday CLOSED Admission is always FREE First Friday ArtWALK
Angela Schwengler
August 3rd, 5:30-9pm Featured Artist: Angela Schwengler August 31st, 5:30-9pm
June 30th to August 26th, 2012
urs/
kport
August 31st, 5:30p to 9p
Saturday, August 11th, 5-7pm
1521 North Chaparral Street
Closed Mondays & Holidays
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Rockport Center for the Arts
309 North Water Street, Suite D
The Barry Brown Clay Studio Show Reception - August 9th, 5-7pm Ryan McKerley: New Work Austin potter Ryan McKerley uses a variety of techniques including wax resist, water carving, and 6 Green Cups, salt glazing. In conjunction with Ryan McKerley his exhibition, on August 4th Ryan will lead a workshop on the techniques he developed to create his very unique wares: Watercarving: Surface Decorating for Porcelain. Nexus: Group Show First Friday ArtWALK August 31st, 5:30-9pm September Members Sellathon Members show (and sell) their work in every corner of the Art Center for the month!
This 15th annual juried exhibition features 100 artists who work in oil, watercolor, pastel, scratchboard, pencil, sculpture and scrimshaw.
Georgia Griffin
East/ West: Visually Speaking September 14th to November 25th, 2012 A Chinese Contemporary art exhibit organized by Dr. Lee Gray, the Curator of Exhibitions at the Paul and Lulu Hilliard University Art Museum, University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The exhibition features a wide array of paintings, sculpture, photography and works on paper showing how Chinese artists have adapted Eastern ideas and art forms to create new styles of art using references to stylistic history in Western art. In each of the two- and three-dimensional works exhibited, there is an obvious merging of Eastern and Western visual languages. While in some works the reference to Western culture seems adoring, others appear as parodies to the West and its cultural symbols and values. Each participating artist presents a multifaceted view of contemporary China as it struggles to define itself and find its place on the world stage. Check the museum’s website event calendar for other events throughout the month.
Atelier International Art Gallery 505 S Water Street, Suite 519 Corpus Christi, TX 78401 956.605-1221 AIArtGallery.com Hours: Mon - Fri
10a - 5p
Saturday
10a - 2p
Sunday
By Appointment
Check out the new gallery in town! First Friday ArtWALK August 3rd & 31st, 5:30-9pm
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Canvas Exposing Local Artists…
By Georgia Griffin
The Canvas – Stanley Orchard… a ripe apple from an artful family tree! When Stanley Orchard approached me about being profiled, I was familiar with his name but had never had the pleasure of meeting him. In fact, I still haven’t! Due to our summer schedules I wound up conducting this ‘interview’ by phone and email. It was an interesting change of pace that allowed Stanley to really reflect upon my questions before answering.
created using these primaries. I have seen MANY talented individuals whose paintings just appear a little flat, and it's because they use a palette of ten colors that just don't match. Different tones, hues or sheens make a huge difference. “Peter (my brother) is the best artist I have ever met and we have a really unique working relationship. Peter will put out a series of paintings or charcoal drawings that just blow everybody away. It makes me feel inferior. So I in turn put out a series of paintings with the idea that they must be better than his. Then he does the same thing. This competition really drives both of us to be better and our learning curve over the last ten years is significant as a result.
In his initial contact with me, Stanley told me about his grandfather, Fred Orchard, who was a big part of the local art scene from the 60s through the 80s. His work can be seen at the Maritime Museum of Rockport, Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, and a mural at the Driscoll Children’s Hospital. Fred Orchard studied with Andrew Wyeth, under his father N.C. (Newell Convers) Wyeth. Through N.C. Wyeth, Fred eventually came to study under Norman Rockwell. Stanley’s mother, Laura, also taught art for many years, making Stanley a third generation artist. “My family's history with art was never really an issue. I was never really faced with a conscious decision whether or not to be a part of that artistic heritage, rather it was simply ingrained in me from a very young age. Thinking back I can remember my mother critiquing, commenting and praising my drawings from what I am assuming was kindergarten or pre-k. I was so young the memory stands as little more than a vague impression in my mind but the words hold true to this day; "color in all the white spaces!" I was never required to do art, but when I did I was required to do it right. And that is just how things were. It's funny because when I got to high school the teachers finally started teaching the things my mother had been telling me for years. All of these rules that had by that time been implied were now explained to me in more simplistic terms and by the time I got to college I had a more working knowledge of why you do all the things that I had always been told to do.
Tanning, 2012
“I've never really felt compelled to try other genres or styles, for the most part at least. I am comfortable with many mediums: pencils and charcoals, watercolor, fresco... even stuff like pottery, photography, writing and video. But at the same time I realize that if I am going to create a legacy the backbone will be my acrylic paintings.
“My approach to marketing comes directly from Casey Lain at House of Rock. He is one of the most notable concert producers in Texas and I am honored to have spent the better part of a decade working under him in a variety of capacities. While working with him I learned how to market and promote bands and concerts. I market my art in the same fashion as he markets bands, “There are some unique challenges when and the bands themselves coming from a family so versed in art. I taught me a lot of little tricks have to follow a different set of rules than too. I am a bit of an introvert; I most of the artists I work with. It was not don't particularly enjoy being the The Sun Sets Down By The Sea Wall 2011 until the last two years or so that I ever center of attention. But after mentioned my family's association with years of watching people like Ty artists like Georgia O'Keefe, the Wyeths and Norman Rockwell. My work Dietz, Hobo and Sweet Daddy, I learned that when you are selling your talent wasn't that good and mentioning them would have felt more like I was trying you also have to be good at selling yourself. You have to go shake hands and to be cool by association rather than my own talent. Another challenge talk to people. I hate that, but it's all part of the business. You have to go comes when I work with good artists who are just shy of being something out there and be social. It's tough in Corpus Christi, but not much more so really special. I often run into artists who are really good but who have little than any other mid-market city. formal education. Most often they have that mindset that they were too “People don't get quite as excited about the little art shows because there good to have to follow the rules or learn anything in school. For example, are so many unrefined artists. I did a couple of shows with a guy who did I only use red, yellow and blue pigment in my paintings. All colors can be spray painted cartoon characters on cardboard. He would take cardboard 14
rolling and suddenly the wind dies and the air just becomes electric. After a few minutes the North winds start blowing up inside the waves. It causes them to spill clean barrels and spray out over the back of the wave. An hour later the surf is blown out and the air is cold and the whole experience is over. Experiences like that are just fantastic, and are far and away the most inspirational things I can think of. “I chose acrylics because that is what my grandfather did and it is the medium I am most comfortable with. I like painting beach scenes or landscapes, although I try to break that up with stuff that's a little more artsy from time to time. That variety helps to keep my interest.
e!
“There are some really cool events coming up this fall that I am looking forward to participating in. I just entered a couple pieces in K Space's 3rd Coast National event and I am really looking forward to that. This will be the first time that I have ever actually done anything with K Space, and that's such a cool little place. I'm really excited about that. I am also planning to do a couple of the ArtWalks this fall. I had the idea of doing a Denny Dent tribute performance, we will see if I can pull that together. It sounds like such a fun idea, sitting on stage and slapping together a huge painting over the course of a single song. The Art Center for the Islands in Port Aransas is currently hanging some of my paintings and they have a ton of events coming up as does the Felder Art Gallery and House of Rock is well known for hosting stuff like the Brown Bag Challenge and Art in the Raw. It's so rad to see these guys taking art and turning it into such fun events.
On the Bar, 2012 boxes from wherever we were at and paint them in the parking lot before the show, then hang them up with a $100 price tag. After the show he wouldn't even take his stuff home, it would just get thrown away. The people coming to the show knew what was going on and it made all of us look bad. Stuff like that hurts artists who actually take the time to hone their craft, but that isn't a Corpus Christi thing. That happens everywhere. Corpus is actually a much better market than people think it is. Rockport was recently rated by Yahoo! as being one of the top ten art communities in the country, and Corpus gets more of that market than you think. Combined with the events that places like K Space and House of Rock put together and things like the Downtown ArtWalk the scene in Corpus Christi is really starting to grow, particularly among the younger crowd. It's a really nice thing to see and I love being a part of it. It's just fun.
“There are a couple of things I would really like to see the young artists in the area do. For starters, learn the rules and apply them. The Elements of Design are there to improve your art, not hamper it. Look at it as a challenge. And don't be that guy who does a painting and slaps an arbitrary $1,000 price tag on it. Doing great art isn't about getting rich. Put in the time, hone yours skills and have fun doing the art shows. You may never make a million dollars off your work, but if you had fun doing it who cares? Just enjoy what you do!”
“I am not able to work solely on my art, and that is such a blessing. I gain a lot of inspiration from the little things that happen around me throughout the day, and if I didn't have to go to work or if I was just stuck in my studio painting all day I would miss out on that. You might not believe this, but if I were a multi-millionaire I would still work in construction or as a bartender, if for no other reason than the fear of becoming completely one-dimensional.
El Diamonte Del Sur 2012
“I am motivated the simple things; a unique shadow across a fence late in the day or streak of golden sorghum between two fields of green. One of my most favorite moments in Corpus Christi is to be out surfing an hour before a cold-front hits. It is a totally unique experience. The surf is
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The Inner Tube at Packery Channel, 2011
Dining Guide Tango Tea Room Taste The Difference! The Gourmet Pizza
949-7737 � 15370 SPID- On the Island
Our famous Padre Pizza dough is handmade daily. Our sauces are created from the freshest tomatoes and seasoned with our own Chef’s blend of natural herbs and spices. Our lasagna made from scratch daily is the most tasty and delicious you will ever try, and our salad selections are prepared to order using the freshest produce available. 14993 SPID On the Island 949-0787
Located on Padre Island, Island Italian has been serving the community since 1987. A family friendly restaurant, Island Italian also serves beer and wine and is available for private parties of up to 53 people. Flat screen TV and DVD / VHS for meetings. Delivery on Padre Island after 5pm. Daily Lunch and Dinner Specials.
The Tango Tea Room brings a taste of Austin to Downtown Corpus. Tango serves a variety of Mediterranean and world cuisine, including some of the best vegetarian and vegan fare you can find in Corpus. We also specialize in vegan and gluten-free desserts, cupcakes and muffins. Come on down and get your hippie on! 505 S. Water Street in downtown Corpus Christi. 361-883-9123 Tangofandango.com
Hours:
10-7 Monday through Thursday
Hours of Operation: Monday - Thursday 11am to 9:30pm Saturday 10am to 10pm Sunday 5pm to 9:30pm
10-9 Friday & Saturday 12-6 Sunday Farmers Market every Wednesday 5pm
d o o f a e S t a e r G and Burgers Wednesdays Prime Rib with Twice Baked Potato
Libations Amusements 18 Holes of Miniature Golf
One Bite e r ’ Open 11 am - 2 am u o Y & Kitchen Closes @ 1 am 2034 State Highway 361 Hooked
361 749- Taco (8226)
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Dining Guide
Snoopy’s and Scoopy’s
Snoopy’s Pier was literally a product of the Redfish Wars, a battle over commercial fishing rights in Texas. Ernie Buttler realized the Redfish Wars signaled the beginning of the end of the commercial fishing industry in Texas. So Ernie decided to give up trying to catch fish and shrimp and start cooking them instead. In August 1980 Ernie and his wife, Corliss, purchased a small bait stand and burger joint with a fishing pier on the Intracoastal Waterway. Over time, the place was transformed with a lot of hard work and patience into a family-friendly seafood restaurant. Special attention is given to providing local harvested quality seafood at affordable prices. Scoopy’s was opened by Ernie’s wife and features home made soups, salads and sandwiches using only Texas products. Scoopy’s is proud of their shrimp salad, known by locals as the best in town. They also have great house made desserts and ice cream by the scoop. 13313 S.P.I.D. · Corpus Christi (361) 949-8815 · snoopyspier.com
Libations Amusements 18 holes of miniature golf Open 11 am - 2 am Kitchen Closes @ 1 am 2034 State Highway 361 361 749- Taco (8226)
Town & Country Cafe has great breakfast and lunch specials every day, offering great food at a fair price. Town & Country Cafe is a great location for business meetings and client luncheons and there is no charge for the use of the meeting room.
4228 South Alameda Corpus Christi, TX 78412
(361) 992-0360 Locally Owned and Operated
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Grand Opening Party @ The Barrel
4th of July Boat Parade @ North Padre Island
The 4th of July Boat Parade was extra fun this year with the addition of a cardboard boat race. Only 2 teams signed up, neither ďŹ nished. Photos by Miles Merwin 19
The Barrel wine and Tapas bar located in the Padre Professional Plaza just before Whitecap on North Padre Island. A sampling of the new tapas menu was served along with beer and wine. The Barrel is owned by Garrett and Trish Frazier who also own The Black Sheep Bistro. Photos by Jan Rankin.
EAT HAPPY Huge Vegetarian,
Vegan & Gluten-Free Friendly Menu Fresh Non-veg stuff too. Bohemian atmosphere Free WiFi
Downtown Farmers market Every Wednesday 5pm Bizarre Bazaar Every 3rd Saturday Open Mic 2nd Saturday
Tango Tea Room 505 South Water Street 361-883-9123
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Wine Tasting @ Hemmingways
Photos by Jeff Dolan
The Rockport Historical Society held a costume wine tasting at Hemmingways in Rockport. The wine was Guenoc from the Langtry Estate and Vineyards.
Experience the cultural infusion of Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan
By Samantha Koepp Most people living in South Texas are familiar with Mariachi Music; a common expression of the Mexican culture through strong, full bodied voices and colorful sounds coming from a variety of instruments that tell stories of life, love and tragedy. A group that has expanded the popularity of the genre across cultures is Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan, who has taken the heritage infused style and created an artform that blends tradition with elegance that transcends through generations and ethnicities. You can experience Mariachi Vargas live at American Bank Center Selena Auditorium during the Corpus Christi 5th Annual Mariachi Music Fest on September 28. The Music Fest’s Producer, Cynthia Munoz, offers insight into details on the music festival, the history of Mariachi Vargas, and why you’ll want to get your tickets now!
What's the significance of the Mariachi Music Fest being held in Corpus Christi? Corpus Christi's 5th Annual Mariachi Music Fest plays a significant role in promoting cultural preservation and higher education among Hispanic communities. In addition, colleges and universities with mariachi music programs perform to help promote higher education through entertainment among Hispanic youth.
What is the lineup for the Corpus Christi Mariachi Music Fest? Texas A&M Kingsville's Mariachi Javelina will open for Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan .Mariachi Javelina is one of the first colleges and universities in the U.S. to establish a mariachi music program. The program has been in existence for 33 years since 1979. More surprises are planned that will help make Corpus Christi's 5th Annual Mariachi Music Fest the most amazing show in the world.
How long has the current group of performers with Mariachi Vargas performed together? The group that performs as Mariachi Vargas today is the fifth generation. Some of the members have been with the group for 30 - 40 + years. The newest member, Miguel Barron (vihuela) has been with the group for 2 years.
Performing for 115 years, there have obviously been changes with the performers. How are new performers chosen? Mariachi Vargas is the greatest mariachi in the world so once members join the group, they're usually in it for a lifetime. Victor "Pato" Cardenas retired from Mariachi Vargas in 2010 after performing 50 years as the group's vihuela player. New members are recruited from the best mariachi groups in Mexico.
Is there a modern day influence on the music performed by Mariachi Vargas? Mariachi music continues to evolve even today and it's grown so versatile. Mariachi Vargas can take a popular upbeat Colombian song and make a 22 mariachi arrangement or play a piece with an entire symphony (several of
their CDs were recorded with full symphonies). They might play Por Ti Volare which was recorded on Andrea Bocelli's CD Romance or they may perform traditional Jorge Negrete songs that are classics. For someone who has never attended the event in the past or has limited exposure to Mariachi Music, how would you describe the attraction to this event and the music? The music is performed with great precision and perfection and is simply beyond the imagination. It is traditional mariachi music performed with symphonic and operatic influences. The concert leaves people feeling tremendous cultural pride and appreciation regardless what side of the border they're from. It's Mariachi Vargas. They're magical. Their music is uplifting, emotional and fulfilling in so many ways. And the audiences' participation is just as entertaining when more than 2,000 people sing along with Mariachi Vargas in songs like Que te ha dado esa mujer. It's during moments like this when you can feel the love of the music and it's deep rooted history that dates back more than 100 years. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, online at ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 1-800745-3000. American Bank Center is Corpus Christi’s premier event center providing unprecedented guest experiences. For more information, visit us online at www.americanbankcenter.com, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/AmericanBankCenter and follow us on Twitter @AmericanBankCtr.
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