SOCIALIFE SPI | SUMMER 2021 by SOCIALIFE Magazine

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND | SUMMER COMPLIMENTARY

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ABISPI Gallery

Meet South Padre’s Turtle Center

2021

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Texas Space Coast

Island History SPI Quarantine Station

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND ULTIMATE INSIDER’S GUIDE

Where Do You Want To Go Tonight?

waterfront dining

202 W. Tarpon Street

seared ahi tuna

South Padre Island

oysters rockefeller

(956) 772 -4700

dragon’s egg

LiamsSteakHouse.com

Hang Like a Local. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Get Out - Things To Do. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

SALLY FRAUSTRO GUERRA PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

ABISPI Gallery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 South Padre’s Sea Turtles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Let’s Eat - The Food Finder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 The Frankes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

BRONSON DELRIO

VICE PRESIDENT + PUBLISHER

The Fun Finder - Get Out on the Water. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Texas Space Coast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Fireworks Over the Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 The Fun Finder - Dolphin Watch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

KARLA KERNZ EDITOR

SPI Birding Center & Alligator Sanctuary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Island History - SPI Quarantine Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Out & About - Live Music. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Get Out - Sand Castles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Island Community Rallies to Save Turtles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

YIRA ALDAPE

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Gladys Porter Zoo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Quinta Mazatlan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Calendar of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Design

Decibel Communications

Photography

Bronson delRio Decibel Communications

Guest Photographers

Guest Writers

SPI CVB Museum of South Padre Island Quinta Mazatlan Carlos Nuñez Bar Louie

Coconut Jack’s SPI Laguna Bob Lobo Del Mar Louie’s Backyard The Quarterdeck Lounge

Wanna Wanna Beach Bar Tequila Sunset Bar Sea Turtle Inc

Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa Dr. Kimberly Selber Dennis Franke Gladys Porter Zoo

Steve Hathcock Quinta Mazatlan SPI Birding Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary

Sea Turtle Inc ABISPI Gallery

FOR ADVERTISING OR OTHER INQUIRIES, REACH OUT! E-mail: admin@socialifergv.com Web: www.socialifeRGV.com

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

Office: (956) 683-8499

Socialife is published by Socialife News, LLC Permission to use any material herein must be approved in writing by the publisher.

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THE NEWEST BEACHFRONT HOTEL ON SOUTH PADRE ISLAND

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FEATURES:

• 200 Large Suites • 15,000 square feet for Meeting & Event Space • When you export your PDF file please don’t include marks or • Oceanside Bar &bleed Restaurant - Bar Louie any other kind of printing guides. • Beachside Swimming Pool • Balcony in every Room

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Learn more at

COURTYARDSPI.COM

6700 Padre Blvd. South Padre Island, TX 78597

HOW WE DO IT

How to Hang Like A Local: Mayor Patrick McNulty

Photo Op: Check Out The Giant Chairs At The South Padre Island Convention Centre

There’s no better place to get away from hustle and bustle than South Padre Island. Here you can get a taste of the quiet island life, while also finding the activities, entertainment, and restaurants of a larger city. We are blessed with beautiful scenery, cultural diversity, and a wide array of opportunities for all different personalities.

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

We islanders love our watersports: kiteboarding, windsurfing, and surfing, to name a few. If you enjoy fishing, as I do, the island offers great in-shore fishing year-round, or you can book bay or off-shore charters. A great family-friendly way to spend the day is on our beaches: hire a beach service to put out chairs, bring a cooler, frisbees, and skim boards to ride the waves, and have loads of fun with the kids. We locals truly treasure our beaches. If you’re up early, you’ll spot large groups of people walking the sand

with buckets and picking up trash— locals believe in leaving the beach cleaner than it was. Sunsets on the island are gorgeous, and each one is different. Join us at one of the bay-front bars for a sunset happy hour, where you can cool off beside the water while enjoying drinks and live music. We cherish our quiet island life, but we also love tourists and appreciate the energy and life that they bring to SPI. We’re very happy to be opening back up and welcoming visitors to our amazing island!

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GET THINGS TO DO OUT

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Have a blast at the Beach Park at Isla Blanca. One of the state’s top attractions, this indoor/ outdoor waterpark offers a whopping 25 acres of family fun. Dozens of rides cater to all ages, including four twisting water coasters, a Surf Rider wave area, and the Rio Aventura, a lazy river flows through the park. Other exciting activities to try are zip-lining and diving or snorkeling in the underwater Sea Trek. There are also several pools, kids’ play areas, and even a manmade beach. Multiple restaurants provide tasty treats all day long.

The 5 Best Things to Do at Isla Blanca Park Every year, more than a million visitors flock to Isla Blanca Park. Set on the southernmost tip of South Padre Island, the coastal park offers a huge variety of activities for the whole family, from great beaches to thrilling amusement rides to outdoor entertainment. And with recent multimillion-dollar renovations now complete, there are even more reasons to head to the tropical tip of Texas.

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Hang out at the new beachfront pavilions. The recently revamped Sandpiper Pavilion and D.J. Lerma Pavilion are the perfect places for spending the day at the beach. They feature picnic tables, dune walkovers, restrooms, and barbecue stations, and are connected via a lighted beachfront boardwalk. Plus, the Sandpiper Pavilion’s new amphitheater regularly hosts live music.

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

Hit the beach. Enjoy the mile-long stretch of wide, soft, white-sand beaches and take a dip in the gorgeous, crystal-clear Gulf waters. Build a sandcastle, fly a kite, or simply relax and soak up the sea views. Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for rent.

Fish on the jetties. Bring your rod and reel to this top fishing spot, a favorite of locals and visitors alike. The jetties offer the opportunity to catch all kinds of different species that live in the Gulf. No need to bring your own bait; there’s a bait stand right at the entrance to the jetties.

See a famous statue. The towering “El Cristo de los Pescadores,” or Christ of the Fisherman, is located at the southernmost edge of the park. The memorial pays tribute to local shrimp fisherman who lost their lives at sea.

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V I B R A N T

S O U T H

P A D R E

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ART IN ACTION

ABISPI: Gallery studio workshop events Communities across the country have learned to embrace the art economy to boost the quality of life for local artists and residents while simultaneously enhancing the vacation experience for visitors. The Art Business Incubator on South Padre Island strives to sustainably support the growth of art culture in our community by providing a comfortable and supportive learning environment for emerging local artists. The mission of this project is easier said than done but has implications that could benefit our local community for generations.

ABI SPI (pronounced “abbey,” SPI) sets out to “incubate” artists who have the desire to own and operate their own art-related business on South Padre Island. During this time, these emerging art-related entrepreneurs are granted access to their own studio space and gallery space, along with many other invaluable resources. These offerings are intended to lower the barriers to success and cushion the risks of early-stage business development as the artists test their product in

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the market for the first time. There is a growing abundance of artists in the Rio Grande Valley, and SPI is excited to contribute to growing the art community! ABISPI is in its second year of business, hosting its second group of fabulous artists. The first class of artists successfully completed their year-term against all odds, attempting to pursue their art

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V I B R A N T

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2500 Padre Blvd, Suite 1 South Padre Island www.abispi.com @artsouthpadre careers while facing the challenges of Covid-19. They left the program with solid business plans and are currently making plans for their future endeavors while welcoming the next group of talented artists. The positive reputation and success of the organization is growing due to the

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ambition and brilliance of the artists. ABISPI currently hosts artists from all over the U.S. who work with various mediums: paper, ink, wood, paint, etc. This diverse collection of original artworks is a must-see if you are ever visiting South Padre Island. While we do sell art as a gallery, it is essential to reiterate that we are an interactive

facility whose primary purpose is to boost the number of artists and art enthusiasts on the island. We want to continue to maintain community involvement by hosting social events and interactive art workshops. Explore the constantly-changing inventory of original artworks, attend a workshop, and meet the artists!

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V I B R A N T

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P A D R E

I S L A N D

ABISPI: SPOTLIGHT

Cristina Piecuch

Korean-American raised in Peru, Cristina Piecuch draws on her unique heritage to create surreal prints that reflect the world around her. “The geometric shapes and bright colors rooted in Peruvian art, especially Incan art, have a strong influence on my work,” she says. While earning her B.F.A in Illustration from Michigan’s Grand Valley State University, Cristina discovered her love of traditional printmaking. “Carving an image into a woodcut and transferring it by hand gave me a true appreciation for the ancient technique,” says Cristina, who creates her work using linocuts and reduction printing combined with digital methods. “I like working with figures but adding a surreal twist,” she says. “Because I’m new to the island, I’m inspired by the animals here, especially all the birds—I’ve never been surrounded by so many birds with such cool shapes.” Cristina discovered the SPI Art Business Incubator after recently moving to the island. “It perfectly fit what I needed: a studio to create art but they also offered guidance in how to create a buzz around my work, which is especially important after COVID.” As an artist and new resident, she is eager to explore more of the Rio Grande Valley. “I want to learn more about the Mexican heritage, discover the art communities in Brownsville, Harlingen, and McAllen, and experience all of the area’s wonderful diversity.”

cristinapqart@gmail.com @the.manila.folder cristinapiecuch.com

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

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V I B R A N T

ABISPI: SPOTLIGHT

Kristi Abbott

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transplant from Australia by way of Minnesota, Kristi Abbot has been crafting her exuberant, colorful mixed-media collages for the past seven years. Layering hand-cut paper, and adding other elements such as feathers, glitter, and paint, she creates works that dazzle with a range of textures and colors. “What I love about working with paper is the sheer variety,” says Abbot. “I use iridescent tissue paper, vintage wallpaper, metallic paper… bringing them together in a piece to create a circus of texture.” The self-taught artist has produced a number of different series, depicting everything from Nursery Rhymes to Pin-ups, Icons to Warriors. “Every series is close to my heart,” she says. “I always wanted to be a mermaid, hence my new series, Mythical Creatures.”

Her larger pieces take about a month to complete, with much of that time dedicated to planning. “First, I research the theme or person I want to create. Then I make a digital draft, resizing and manipulating the imagery before printing it. Then I start cutting and putting it all together like a jigsaw puzzle.” For her current Mythical Creature series, which she’s making in her studio space at the Art Business Incubator, she’s experimenting with different backgrounds, using alcohol inks, stencils, spray paint, and layers of resin. “It’s been just over a month and I’m loving the gallery and work space, especially getting to work with other the other artists who are producing pieces of such outstanding quality.”

info@madebykristi.com @kristiartist1 kristiabbott.com

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SUMMER SOCIALIFE

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SOCIALIFE

COMMUNITY PRIDE

REHABILITATION

EDUCATION

CONSERVATION

Meet South Padre’s Sea Turtles

The waters off South Padre are home to an amazing number and variety of sea turtles, with five different species calling the Gulf of Mexico home. Loggerheads, hawksbills, leatherbacks, green, and Kemp’s ridley turtles can all be found swimming in the warm waters, coming ashore to bask and build their nests each spring.

Yet the marine turtle’s life isn’t an easy one. At risk from cold snaps, natural predators, boat propellers, and plastic ingestion or entanglement, injured or stranded turtles are a regular occurrence along the South Padre shoreline. For 44 years, Sea Turtle, Inc. has helped rescue and rehabilitate these gentle giants, with the aim of releasing them back into the wild. Visitors to Sea Turtle, Inc. can experience the thrill of seeing these reptiles up-close, while also learning about the organization’s important sea turtle conservation efforts. This incredible space features a 500-foot boardwalk over a saltwater lagoon, where you can view recuperating turtles and

Turtle Photos: SPI CVB

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2021

ACHIEVEMENTS watch them feeding, as well as small pools where you can closely observe turtle patients. Hourly “Turtle Talks” in the amphitheater cover all things turtle-related, from the mission of the organization, to the differences among the species, to how a rehabilitated turtle is released back into the sea. There are also larger tanks holding sea turtles who are unable to return to the wild. Its most famous resident is Allison, a 140-pound green sea turtle who was fitted with a prosthetic back flipper—one of the first successful turtle

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SEA TURTLE EMERGENCY CALLS ANSWERED

TURTLES REHABILITATED & RELEASED

prothesis procedures in the world. Her personal lifeguards are present at her tank every day to share her miraculous story. This entertaining, educational activity is perfect for the entire family.

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VISITORS EDUCATED

Sea Turtle, Inc. is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm from June 1 to August 15, and 10 am to 4 pm the rest of the year. visit www.SeaTurtleInc.org for latest schedules

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SUMMER SOCIALIFE

Where to eat at South Padre Island

The Food Finder

Liam's Steakhouse

Bar Louie

Meatball Cafe

(956) 772-4700 202 W Tarpon St www.liamssteakhouse.com

(956) 433-2098 6700 Padre Blvd. www.barlouie.com

(956) 299-4605 2412 Padre Blvd www.themeatball-cafe.com

F&B

SEÑOR DONKEY

PAINTED MARLIN GRILLE

LIAM’S STEAK HOUSE & OYSTER BAR

DADDY’S SEAFOOD & CAJUN KITCHEN

TOM AND JERRY’S

PELICAN’S STATION

JOSEPHINE’S KITCHEN

3409 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 299-4910

LOBO DEL MAR CAFE

201 S Garcia St, Port Isabel (956) 943-3344

SEA RANCH RESTAURANT-BAR

LONGBOARD BAR AND GRILL

33330 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island (956) 761-1314

205 W Palm St, South Padre Island (956) 772-7022

DIRTY AL’S

THE MEATBALL CAFE

3109 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 772-8114

202 W Tarpon St, South Padre Island (956) 772-4700

33396 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island (956) 761-4901

4215 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-4843

1808 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-1975

2412 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 299-4605

202 W Whiting St, South Padre Island (956) 761-2977

3212 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-8999

204 Palm St, South Padre Island (956) 772-7256

Taco Palenque South Padre Island 100 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 243-6580 Veggie Del Sol 1004 Padre Blvd J1, South Padre Island (956) 780-2679 Ceviche Ceviche 1004 Padre Blvd h1, South Padre Island (956) 772-1555 Blackbeard’s Restaurant 103 E Saturn Ln, South Padre Island (956) 761-2962 Laguna BOB 2401 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 433-5499 Cafe On The Beach 3616 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-2703 Yummies Bistro 700 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-2526 Breaking Bread 2601 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 772-7065 Chilitto Pikin 3305 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 433-5484 Padre Island Brewing Co. 3400 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-9585 BurgerFi 5001 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 433-5502 The Grapevine Cafe & Coffeehouse 100 Swordfish St, South Padre Island (956) 761-8463 Cap’n Roy’s 1313 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-9990 Gabriella’s Italian Grill & Pizzeria 700 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-6111 Russo’s New York Pizzeria - South Padre Island 410 Padre Blvd Ste 101, South Padre Island (956) 299-4987

Windjammers Beachfront Cafe 500 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-6511 Tropical Smoothie Cafe 410 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 433-5259

Pizza Hut 1905 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-1361 Umix Yogurt & Deli 1004 Padre Blvd suite f-1, South Padre Island (956) 426-9037

Kohnami Restaurant 410 Padre Blvd #102, South Padre Island (956) 761-2446

Kelly’s Irish Pub 101 E Morningside Dr, South Padre Island (956) 433-5380

Subway 2100 Padre Blvd #5, South Padre Island (956) 761-6700

La Copa Cabana Bar & Grill 350 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 734-2352

Clayton’s Beach Bar & Event Venue 6900 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-5900

Wingstop 2404 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-1300

PadreRitaGrill 4001 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-7482 Johnny Rockets 410 Padre Blvd #108, South Padre Island (956) 433-5504 Montana’s The Kraken 2700 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 772-7002 Parrot Eyes Restaurant-Bar 5801 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 772-9040 D Pizza Joint 2413 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-7995 Dairy Queen 2401 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-1072 The Palms Cafe 3616 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-2703 Whataburger 3509 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-7862 Las Olas Restaurant Grill & Bar 340 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-2514

KFC 3201 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-2392 The Lookout Bar + Refuge 7000 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 377-2019 Denny’s 1100 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-1887 WillieDean Bagels 1817 Padre Blvd #3, South Padre Island (956) 433-5119 Bar Louie - South Padre Island 6700 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 433-2098 McDonald’s 908 S, Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-4999 El Chilango Taqueria 1912 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (201) 616-1417 Boomerang Billy’s 2612 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island-6940 956-761-2831 Harry’s Bar 2217 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island-6833 956-466-6126

Louie’s Backyard 2305 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-6406

Jake’s Restaurant & Bar 2001 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-5012

Mahi Nic 33384 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island (956) 243-0279

Tequila Sunset Bar & Grill 200 W Pike St, South Padre Island (956) 761-6198

Beachside Bar & Grill 310 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-6551

Coconut Jack’s 2301 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-4218

Pier 19 1 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 761-7437

Pineapple Ninjaz 1201 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island (956) 662-8782

ENJOYSPI PREMIUM VACATION PACKAGES

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S O U T H PA D R E I S L A N D

e f i l f o y a w w e n e l o h w a e c n e i r e p x . E s e r o h S e at Th Franke Realty 8605 Padre Boulevard South Padre Island, Texas 78597 (800) 447-4753

(956) 761-2606

www.frankerealty.com

The Frankes

Generations building a legacy on South Padre Island

The Franke's Generations building a legacy on South Padre Island It was 1956 when J.P. “Bud” Franke opened his real estate office. He was greeted by sand streets, high hopes and when crushed oyster shells was a luxury driveway. Life in the remote South Texas tourist and fishing village was simple and very hot in the summer, but he was happy and not surprisingly fishing often. With an enthusiastic imagination and foresight, Bud was sure that South Padre Island would be another Miami Beach and that his decision to move from Chicago was the right one. After years of hard work, everything seemed to be coming together, but he realized that it would take a little longer than he thought. The first bridge to the island, the Queen Isabella Causeway, was constructed, so you could now drive to

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the island. However, when you arrived on the island, it was a different scene. Roads were scarce and burdened with deep sand. It was well worth it when you arrived on the beautiful white sand beach and sparkling water that lured you in on a hot summer day. All has changed, but all is still the same. Franke Realty, the oldest Realty Company on South Padre Island, was founded in 1956. The company handles sales, rentals, and development and has steadily grown over the years. Dennis and his twin brother Richard, worked for their father and eventually took over the company in the early ’70s when he retired. South Padre Island is a destination resort with tourism as its only industry and has benefited by the fact that there is no heavy industry in the area, making it a pristine area with no pollution. This

has caused slower area growth but great rewards for the tourism industry. Although the island is 120 miles long, making it one of the longest barrier islands in the country, only six miles have been developed at the south end and a small portion at the north end. Eighty miles of the island is a National Sea Shore Park, and other large parcels are owned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife. Therefore, the majority of the island will always be left in its natural state which is a huge asset for the future. On the south end of the island, which is the premium end, is where the Franke’s have made their mark. Over the years, they have built condominiums, houses, townhouses, offices, retail shops, shopping centers, rental and management companies, and all things related to real estate. What they haven’t built, they brokered.

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M E E T

T H E

The company has earned a prestigious reputation for doing things right the first time and not accepting less. Back in 1982, they bought an exceptional piece of property located at the north end of the town for a development that soon became named “The Shores.” When they purchased the land, it was just a 247acre sand flat. After years of planning, designing, engineering, permitting, re-permitting, dredging, bulk-heading, and doing it all over again, that 247-acre sand flat has become a master planned community known as The Shores. It is a very upscale development influencing South Padre Island in a very positive way. With a unique Shores design code guiding the construction in a traditional seaside manner, the development takes on a look and feel all of its own; blending low-rise and high-rise construction in a way that makes it all belong and share the same traditional architecture which is something very special and seldom achieved. The Shores holds true to what

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L O C A L S

the Frankes hold dear – build things that belong where you build them. Set the standards high so they will stand the test of time. Architectural style defines who you are and what will endure. Standards must be held, or you will end up with nothing. Maintenance is required with all things in life and last. You cannot please everyone, so pick a direction and stay true to it. The Shores is a part of South Padre Island, a part never planned, a town within a town with its own standards, specifications, and requirements. A special place revolving around a future downtown with shops and cafes, single family homes on the beach and bay, multi-family houses, marina, Islands of luxury dwellings, boutique hotel, condominiums, stables, and the best of everything South Padre Island has to offer. Franke Realty and Rentals stand ready to assist you in achieving the special things in your life, so please stop by and see if our vision is your vision

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LOCATED INSIDE

7010 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX

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TOTAL HOTEL

• When you export your PDF file please don’t include bleed marks or any other kind of printing guides. • Please try to keep your live content with in this white area of 6.95x12 in ENHANCED CLEANING DISTANCING EQUIPMENT so that your content PHYSICAL doesn’t get lost in the magazine page fold. Protocols for every space of the hotel; especially for high-traffic spaces and high-touch surfaces

Modified floor plans; reduced seating capacities; queuing through floor signage and stanchions

HEPA/ULTA filtration in air units and vacuums; innovative technologies like electrostatic spraying and UV light disinfection

HAND HYGIENE

MINIMIZING REUSE

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

Minimizing shared use items and

Face coverings required for all

LESS CONTACT, MORE CONNECTION

(956) TRAINING 683-8499

INDIVIDUAL HOTEL PLANS

Utilization of the Marriott Bonvoy™ app: check in, access your room, or order room service in over 3200+ hotels

On-Property Cleanliness Champion; updated training and protocols for all associates with daily reinforcement

Hotel-specific Commitment to Clean Plan that outlines how the hotel cleans, disinfects, and mitigates transmission

Hand washing requirements for associates; sanitizer dispensers placed throughout the hotel

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The Island’s best kept seafood secret is at Port Isabel (just on the other side of the causeway)

F R E S H G U L F S E A F O O D • S C E N I C B AY D I N I N G • D A I LY S P E C I A L S

201 S. Garcia St. Port Isabel, TX 78578

(956) 943-3344

www.pelicanstation.co

The Fun Finder

WATER WORLD

Get Out on the Water!

RENTAL GUIDE South Padre Surf Company 956-772-7272 1 Bait Shop Rd., Isla Blanca Park, South Padre Island Year Round Surf Lessons • Surf Camps • Surfboard Rentals Learn to surf at South Padre Island Texas! All ages are welcome, swimming skills not required as lessons are taught in shallow water. Safe for even small children. Group and family discounts.

Where to go for fun in the sun South Padre Island

Osprey Cruises 956-761-6655 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island Charters, Dinner & Fireworks, Pirate Adventures, EcoTours, and Sunset Cruises.

American Diving 956-761-2030 33256 State Park Rd 100, Suite 104, South Padre Island American Diving is South Texas' only full service dive center. We offer a full line store, local and international dive trips, as well as a Diving College. We offer diving adventures to the Texas Clipper, a multilevel dive, where you can explore the A deck and the Promenade at 62 to 80 feet. Penetration divers can tackle interior spaces to depths from 70 feet to over 110 feet. Much of the wreck is more than 60 feet above the bottom it may be explored by entry level divers.

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Surfboard Rentals 956-772-7272 1 Bait Shop Rd., Isla Blanca Park, South Padre Island, TX 78597 Surfboard Rentals and Wetsuit Rentals available daily

Sonny's Beach Service

956-761-5556 310 S. Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, Texas Parasail, Banana Boat, Jet Ski, Umbrellas and Chairs, Dolphin Watch, Fireworks Cruises, Eco Tours, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Waverunners, Bay fishing, Deep Sea Fishing, Electric Cars.

Sailing Charters and Sailboat Rides 956-312-3304 South Padre Island, TX 78597 Private customizable sailing charters and sailboat rides available year round.

Parrot Eyes Watersports 956-761-9457 or 956-459-4808 580 1 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597 Waverunners and Waverunner tours, Parasailing, and Dolphin Watch Tours.

Sand Castle Lessons 956-433-9948 310 Padre Blvd.,South Padre

Island,Texas 78597 Booking in advance is necessary as we are always busy. Andy Hancock and his instructors will be pleased to help you build the castles of your dreams using 3 simple steps and no previous experience or creative ability is necessary. Lessons come in 2hour/3hour and VIP packages. Please ask your hotel for details.

Southern Wave Sailing Charters of South Padre Island 956-772-7245 205 W. Palm St. at the south end of Laguna Blvd., South Padre Island, Snorkeling, Dinner Cruises, Sunset / Fireworks, Moonlight Cruises, Private Parties.

Duck Hunting Trips by Blast to Cast Guide Service 956-243-0039 211 W Swordfish, South Padre Island South Padre Island Blast to Cast Guide Service is a Duck Hunting and Bay Fishing Guide Service located on South Padre Island. Duck hunting from South Padre Island is a unique place to target a variety of ducks mixed with mild winter weather. Large concentrations of Redheads, Pintails, Blue Bills, Widgeons and Teal migrate through the area for

the winter. Duck season starts in early November and ends in late January.

Breakaway Cruises 956-761-2212 33384 State Park Rd. 100 South Padre Island, TX 78597 Dolphin Cruises • Fishing • EcoTours • Snorkeling • Waverunners

Captain Murphy's Isla Tours 956-761-4752 33256 State Park Road 100, South Padre Island, at the Sea Ranch Marina Dolphin Watch • Fishing Trips • Sunset Cruise • Eco-Tours • Fireworks Cruise • Private Cruises

SPI Fun Rental & Island Surf Rental (956) 761-9999 1314 Padre Blvd #A, South Padre Island SPI Fun Rentals is the best place for beach rentals on South Padre Island Texas. From Off Road Jeeps, Scooters, Golf Carts and bicycles to kayaks, surfboards and paddleboards, SPI Fun Rentals has the largest inventory of products at the lowest price!

SPI Water Rentals (956) 970-2628 2401B Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597

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South Padre one of the top destinations for watersports, with countless ways to experience the thrill of being out on the water. Whether you’re looking to catch big waves in the Gulf of Mexico on a kiteboard or seeking a quiet paddle on the tranquil waters of Laguna Madre Bay, there’s something here for everyone. And exploring these watery pursuits is easy, with rental companies across the island offering rentals and lessons for a huge variety of different watersports.

Here are four to try out on your visit. Ready to reach new heights? Parasailing will have you flying hundreds of feet in the air, with incredible views of South Padre Island, Port Isabel, and all the incredible marine life below. You’ll take off and land from a platform in Laguna Madre Bay, and while it sounds scary, there’s no skill involved—making it an ideal activity for the whole family.

Zipping across the water at high speeds and being lifted into the air with the power of the wind is a serious way to test your mettle. If kiteboarding sounds like your kind of adrenaline-fueled adventure, there’s no better place to do it than on South Padre. Thanks to steady, year-round breezes, the island provides the ideal kiteboarding conditions, whether you’re a newbie or an expert. Most rentals and lessons are offered in the calmer waters of the bay, but pros can hit the Gulf side for big waves and even bigger thrills. Gather your friends and family for a highoctane adventure on the back of a colorful banana boat. Hang on tight as you’re pulled around scenic Laguna Madre Bay by a high-speed wave runner—and falling into the warm water just part of the fun. (Don’t worry, everyone wears a life jacket.) It’s the ultimate way to cool off after enjoying a day in the sun. The clear, quiet, shallow waters of Laguna Madre Bay are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding—especially for those newer to the sport—and you’re sure to spot all kinds of interesting marine life on your trip. Most SUP tours and rentals are available bayside but more experienced riders can head over to the Gulf of Mexico to tackle more challenging waves.

FISHING GUIDE OSPREY CRUISES 956-761-6655

PARROT EYES WATERSPORTS (956) 761-9457

CRYSTAL FLATS GUIDE SERVICE (956) 346-0140

SPI FISH KILLER CHARTERS (956) 792-1316

BLAST TO CAST GUIDE SERVICE (956) 243-0039

SALT WALKER FISHING CHARTERS (361) 793-1598

ISLA TOURS (956) 761-4752

TIP O’TEXAS GUIDE SERVICE (956) 243-1465

CAPTAIN MARK GUILLOT’S FISHING GUIDE SERVICE (956) 299-3900

SOUTH PADRE ISLAND FISHING CHARTERS (956) 376-7921

ALWAYS A CATCH FISHING TRIPS (956) 524-3002

CAPT. DAVID LEAL’S FISHING GUIDE (956) 499-4852

BIG JOHN’S FISHING GUIDE (956) 266-2102

BREAKAWAY CRUISES (956) 761-2212 CAPTAIN MURPHY’S FISHING CHARTERS (956) 761-2764 TRITOON CHARTERS (956) 371-5460

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DANNY B FISHING CHARTERS (956) 761-1389 PLAYIN HOOKY FISHING CHARTERS (956) 639-6604 REEL DEAL CHARTERS WITH CAPT DAVE (956) 517-9404

CAPT. GUS’S SALT WATER ADVENTURES (719) 440-3306 DRIFTWOOD LANDING (956) 433-5555 BREAKAWAY CRUISES (956) 761-2212 CAPT. ELLIOTT FISHING CHARTERS (956) 574-4232 DUNKIN GUIDE SYSTEMS (956) 873-3850

TEXAS RED FISH ADVENTURES (956) 245-8379 TIERRA Y MAR OUTFITTERS (830) 755-2376 SOUTH TEXAS FLY FISHING CO (956) 434-1422 TODDS SPORTFISHING SERVICE (956) 299-0444 LONE STAR CHARTERS (956) 346-2736 CAPTAIN BRYAN RAY FISHING ADVENTURES (956) 433-6469 CAPTAIN LEE ALVAREZ’ SOUTH PADRE FISHING CHARTERS (956) 330-8654

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F A R

O U T

Things are shaping up on the

TEXAS S PAC E C OAS T Photography by: Carlos Nunez @CNunezIMAGES

Space enthusiasts flock to Houston and visit the Johnson Space Center. Others travel to Florida to explore the Kennedy Space Center. While down on South Padre Island, they are viewing launches as SpaceX continues to test the rockets that will carry people to Mars.

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In the last six months the island has seen an increase in visitors who are space tourists and are coming to witness the launches in person here in south Texas. Space junkies can be seen lining the southern part of South Padre Island and the jetties from Isla Blanca Park on scheduled launch days.

“We are seeing visitors coming and staying for a week during projected launch windows,” said Ed Caum, Convention and Visitors Bureau Director. “There are plenty of things to see besides the launch. Even viewing SpaceX assemble, and test fire the rockets is fascinating!”

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This can be done as people enjoy Texas’ only tropical island. South Padre Island has the same vibe that is not too far from the feeling visitors get when they are in the Florida Keys.

The island is located on the same latitude as Naples and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

“This is quickly becoming the Texas Space Coast,” said Caum. “People are finding the island for the first time because of the publicity SpaceX has been given.” If you want to catch a glimpse of the future of space travel just head on down to the Texas Space Coast on South Padre Island.

For more information visit www.sopadre.com/SpaceX

Irina K. - stock.adobe.com

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SUMMER SOCIALIFE 35

Things To Do

POP! BANG! WOW!

Fireworks Over the Water

There’s no better way to end your day

of summer fun and sun on South Padre than with a spectacular beachfront fireworks show over the Gulf of Mexico! Watch as the sky lights up with dazzling bursts of color, all beautifully reflected off the waves, and enjoy live music, drinks, and food options galore. And best of all, this family-friendly event is entirely free! The City of South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau will host special fireworks shows for the Independence Day holiday on Sunday, July 4, 2021, and Labor Day on Sunday, September 5, 2021. For more information on the fireworks summer schedule and family-friendly activities on South Padre Island, please visit www.sopadre.com.

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BEACHSIDE FIREWORKS THURSDAY 9:15PM Isla Grand Beach Resort on the beach FRIDAY, AND SATURDAY 9:00PM Courtyard Marriott and Clayton’s Beach Bar “Fireworks on the Pier” You’ ll have great views from Courtyard Marriott and Hilton Garden Inn beach deck! BAYSIDE FIREWORKS TUESDAYS 9:15PM If you’re on the bayside, Louis Backyard, The Entertainment District, Longboard and Lobo del Mar are all great spots with dazzling views.

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The Fun Finder

Dolphin Watch

The waters around South Padre are home to an incredible amount of marine life, and dolphins are one of the favorite tourist attractions. All year-round, you can spot large pods of acrobatic bottle-nose and spinner dolphins swimming, diving, and leaping into the air in the Gulf of Mexico’s waves. If you want to experience the thrill of encountering dolphins in their natural habitat and get up close to these playful wild creatures, there’s no better way than on a South Padre dolphin tour. You’ll find a wide variety of dolphin tours leaving from the island, with the most popular being morning and afternoon cruises that last between 1.5 and two hours. There are also Osprey Sealife Cruises 956-761-6655 1 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island Dolphin Watch and Eco Tours Dolphin Watch Headquarters 956-761-4243 33256 State Park Rd 100, South Padre Island South Padre Island Offering Dolphin Watches, Birding Tours, Port of Brownsville Tours, Firework Cruises, BBQ Cruises, Cocktail Party Cruises, Field Trips, Snorkeling Trips, and Private Tours. Sonny’s Beach Service 956-761-5556

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

310 S. Padre Blvd., South Padre Island Parasail, Banana Boat, Jet Ski, Umbrellas and Chairs, Dolphin Watch, Fireworks Cruises, Eco Tours, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Waverunners, Bay fishing, Deep Sea Fishing, Electric Cars. Sailing Charters and Sailboat Rides 956-312-3304 South Padre Island, TX Private customizable sailing charters and sailboat rides available year round. Parrot Eyes Watersports 956-761-9457 or 956-459-4808 580

smaller eco-tours available, where you’ll learn more about dolphins and other sea creatures that make their home in the Gulf. For a more adventurous experience, pair sailing and dolphinwatching on a catamaran cruise. Or combine a famous South Padre sunset with dolphin-spotting on a romantic sunset cruise. For a more personalized experience, book a private charter and create your own itinerary, adding fishing, swimming, and diving to your dolphin-watching adventure. Hop aboard on one of these SPI dolphin tours that’s just right for you. 1 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island Waverunners and Waverunner tours, Parasailing, and Dolphin Watch Tours. Southern Wave Sailing Charters of South Padre Island, Texas 956-772-7245 205 W. Palm St. at the south end of Laguna Blvd Snorkeling, Dinner Cruises, Sunset / Fireworks, Moonlight Cruises, Private Parties. Breakaway Cruises 956-761-2212 33384 State Park Rd. 100 South Padre Island Dolphin Cruises • Fishing • Eco-Tours

• Snorkeling • Waverunners Breakaway Cruises is prepared to make your South Padre Island vacation fun and informative. Our online ticketing will always be the best prices we offer. Captain Murphy’s Isla Tours 956-761-4752 33256 State Park Road 100, South Padre Island, at the Sea Ranch Marina Dolphin Watch • Fishing Trips • Sunset Cruise • Eco-Tours • Fireworks Cruise • Private Cruises

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COMMUNITY PRIDE

FEEL THIS

Have a top-flight experience at South Padre Island Birding Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary

Whether you’re an avid birder, alligator fan, or wildlife photographer, the South Padre Island Birding Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary (SPI) offers a bit of everything for the nature enthusiast.

Laguna Madre Bay, the Center lets visitors experience the incredible diversity of wildlife that make their home in this unique ecosystem. A three-quartermile elevated boardwalk winds through both saltwater marsh and freshwater marsh environments, providing ample opportunity to spot an amazing array of birds, plus get up-close views of American alligators in their natural habitat.

Set on 43 acres of wetlands overlooking the picturesque

Birders can discover a vast variety of freshwater and coastal species

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

at the Center, which is considered the Rio Grande Valley’s top destination for birdwatching. Shorebirds, including Reddish Egrets, American Oystercatchers, and Roseate Spoonbills, live here year-round, but the changing seasons welcome a whole host of different birds, from hummingbirds in the summer to Kingfishers and Ospreys in the fall. Join one of the seasonal birding tours to get the most out of your visit and maybe even check a bird or two off your life list!

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ATTRACTIONS: 3300+ Feet of Boardwalk 5 Bird Blinds Five-Story Viewing Tower Alligator Sanctuary Wildlife Documentary

Kids will no doubt be excited to learn all about the dozens of rescued alligators that live in this sanctuary, including its most famous resident, Big Padre, a 12.7-foot-long, 750-pound male gator. Three free daily Gator Talks cover everything you need to know about this fascinating species—and you may even get the chance to see an alligator yearling! Don’t miss the spectacle of watching these fearsome creatures get fed—be sure time your visit to one of the scheduled feedings. Stop by the visitor center, home to a fantastic natural history museum that features live reptile exhibits, as well as a gift shop stocked with fun and educational souvenirs to remember your visit.

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Other attractions at the Center include a tortoise exhibit where you can feed the friendly reptiles, and a butterfly garden that attracts flocks of beautiful Monarchs in the fall. And with a $10 Adventure Package, you can even snap a picture with a baby gator or a non-venomous snake!

The family-friendly Birding and Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary is open daily year-round, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit www.spibirding.com for more information.

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(956) 683-8499

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ISLAND HISTORY

South Padre Island Quarantine Station By Steve Hathcock

ellow fever and Cholera outbreaks were quite common in Texas during the 1800s, so much so that in 1870, the State Legislation passed an Act declaring quarantine on the Texas Coast. Each port was ordered to establish a quarantine station at a safe distance from the usual places of landing for ships. All ships were inspected at sea. If any sign of fever or vomiting were noted, the vessel would be placed under quarantine. Locally appointed health officers, paid $10 a day, had absolute jurisdiction over cargo, crew, and passengers of any ship docked in the harbor. If a craft from an infected port tried to land without a bill of health from the proper official, they could be fined not less than $500 and not more than $5,000. Attempting to bypass the station altogether could result in a jail sentence of two years or more. Anyone aboard a vessel under quarantine was forbidden to go ashore under penalty of $50 - $500 fines. Cargo could not be landed without first undergoing fumigation (before the first station was built, quarantined ships were kept at anchor just inside the bar; the crew passengers and cargo were kept aboard until twenty days passed with no signs of infection). The first quarantine station along the lower coast was built on Clark Island, which lies to the west of Brazos Island (the two were only separated during high tide). The west end of Clark Island, which is almost two square miles, was about twelve feet above sea level and was covered with grasses, cactuses, and stunted mesquite bushes. Four hundred yards away was a large, three-foot-deep channel. Small skiffs were able to approach within 100 feet of the land here, and a wooden pier extended out over the water, so the quarantined souls did not have to wade ashore. The facility itself consisted of a large hospital tent and seven smaller “pup” style tents for

use as needed. A fifty-cent fee was collected before each person quarantined was given a clean bill of health. In 1882, a wooden structure was erected on Padre Island just north of the lighthouse, which would put it somewhere near the pilings of the old causeway. This structure served as “home” for anyone suspected of being infected. Primitive as it looks, the old wooden structure was probably as comfortable a place as any to spend twenty days of quarantine. Shuttered windows could be opened wide on all sides, thus ensuring any breeze could be directed through the building, and the living area was perched about 10 feet off the ground. There was even a little room located atop the structure with a wrap-around deck wide enough to walk about. Early research by Dr. W.C. Gorgas, an army physician stationed at Fort Brown, proved that yellow fever was not caused by gas rising from decaying vegetation but from the bite of a specific type of mosquito that carried the dreaded virus in its saliva. As a result, fever-bearing mosquitoes were eradicated, and the occurrence of epidemics dropped dramatically. Shortly after the turn of the 20th Century, the quarantine station was closed for good. I’m not sure of what happened to the building, but I believe it was destroyed in the hurricane of 1933.

Courtesy Historical Museum of South Padre Island

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D I R T Y A L’ S F A M I LY O F R E S T A U R A N T S S O U T H PA D R E I S L A N D

S O U T H PA D R E I S L A N D

Liam’s Steakhouse & Oyster Bar

Daddy’s Seafood & Cajun Kitchen

Josephine’s Kitchen

202 W Tarpon St (956) 772 -4700

1808 Padre Blvd (956) 761-1975

3409 Padre Blvd (956) 299-4910

S O U T H PA D R E I S L A N D

PORT ISABEL

Senor Donkey

Dirty Al’s

Pelican Station

4215 Padre Blvd (956) 761-4843

33396 State Park Rd 100 (956) 761-4901

201 S Garcia St (956) 943-3344

B ROW N S V I L L E

MCALLEN

Liam’s Steakhouse

Dirty Al’s Bayou Grill

4495, 83 North Expressway #77, Ste.B (956) 772-7043

5712 N 10th St (956) 627-5362

Dirty Al’s Seafood Market & Cajun Kitchen 4495, 83 North Expressway #77 (956) 621-3452

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OUT AND ABOUT

L IV E M

Turn it up! Bar Louie

6700 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island

Laguna Bob Coconut Jack’s SPI

2401 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island

2301 Laguna Blvd, South Padre Island

For more information please call 956-433-5499

For more information please call 956-433-2098

For more information please call 956-761-4218

Tequila Sunset Bar & Grill 200 W Pike St, South Padre Island

For more information please call 956-761-6198

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C I S U M

The Quarterdeck Lounge 500 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island

Lobo del Mar

204 Palm St, South Padre Island

Louie’s Backyard

2305 Laguna Blvd., South Padre Island

For more information please call 956-761-6511

Wanna Wanna Beach Bar & Grill

5100 Gulf Blvd, South Padre Island For more information please call 956-772-7256

For more information please call 956-761-6406

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For more information please call 956-761-7600

SUMMER SOCIALIFE

GET THINGS TO DO OUT SAND CASTLES!

A Shore Thing

Sand Castle Lessons Sand Castle Lessons (956) 433-9948 Lucinda “Sandy Feet” Wierenga (956) 459-2928

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

Andy Hancock (956) 433-9948

“Amazin’ Walter” Walter McDonald (956) 761-5943

“Sand Slave” Dennis Barrett (956) 371-3810

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Building a sandcastle is always buckets of fun. But if improving your sandcastlebuilding skills is on your bucket list, South Padre is the perfect place to do it. The island is home to a number of master sand sculptors, whose fantastical, multilevel creations can be spotted across area beaches. These pros can help you exercise your creativity and elevate your sandcastle to a true art form. Sign up for a lesson and a professional instructor will meet you on the beach of your choosing, bringing all the tools you need to craft the sandcastle of your dreams— complete with turrets, bridges, archways, and staircases. You’ll learn

much water to add to the sand to create a perfect mixture, stacking techniques, how to carve decorative elements, and other tips and tricks of the trade. It’s a great way to spend quality time on the beach with family, or makes for a unique wedding- or anniversary-related activity or team-building exercise for groups. Beginning, intermediate, and advanced classes are available and last anywhere from 1.5 to three hours. For more sandcastle inspiration, check out South Padre’s Sandcastle Days, showcasing amazing creations from world’s best sand sculptors. More than 30,000 fans attend this free annual family-friendly event, taking place on the beach in front of Clayton’s.

This year’s Sandcastle Days runs from September 27 to October 3.

Check out: sandcastledays.com

If you’re looking for a fun team-building exercise, or a unique wedding or anniversary-related activity, there are also group lessons available.

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SUMMER SOCIALIFE 53

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ACTION! Island Community Rallies To Save TurtlesAfter Historic Freeze

Article: Dr. Kimberly Selber Photography: Sea Turtle Inc

First, the temperatures suddenly dropped into the teens – a weather event rarely experienced at South Padre Island (SPI) – then the Texas Power Grid failed, leaving a majority of SPI, and the rest of Texas, without electricity. Then many SPI residents lost water, and gas stations ran out of fuel. It seemed things couldn’t get any worse. But they did. With the waters in the Gulf of Mexico turning unusually cold, the sea turtle population

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

(primarily comprising Kemp’s Ridley, green, and loggerhead) was massively affected. Turtles rely on ambient temperatures to regulate their body temperatures. With temperatures dropping well below normal, the reptiles went through what Wendy Knight, chief executive officer of Sea Turtle Inc., called a “cold-stunning,” leaving them paralyzed, unable to move their flippers. or raise their heads for air. “They know they should be flapping their fins and raising their heads to breathe. All of those instincts are happening, but their body isn’t fulfilling its instincts,” continued Knight. Failure to warm-up can result in pneumonia or death. Many washed ashore, unable to swim or help themselves; this was a clear sign the turtles were in distress. “Turtles don’t usually rest on the beaches for fun,” Knight said.

Turtle Photos: SPI CVB

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Time was of the essence as thermometer measures continued to plummet, so the South Padre Island community moved into action. Boaters in commercial vessels and dinghies rescued hundreds of turtles floating in the Gulf and Bay. Volunteers collected thousands of beached turtles ranging from dinner-plate-size to a 400-pound, 150-year-old turtle that took 10 men to carry it to the rescue center. Approximately 500 turtles covered the floor of Sea Turtle Inc., while more than 4,500 were sent to recover at the SPI Convention Center. The SPI Convention Center quickly became a warming center – providing shelter to more than a football field and a half of cold-stunned turtles. But, like the residents of SPI, the Convention Center had no power; here’s where the business community came to the rescue. Engineers from Boca Chica based SpaceX brought over a massive generator to provide power, and thus lights and heat for the rescued specimens. “It was the single largest generator I’ve ever seen,” Knight said. In all, 5,300 turtles were rescued with the help of volunteers working 18-hour days. Many were simply community members willing to help. Gina McLellan, a longtime volunteer with Sea Turtle, Inc., said she looked out and saw a 400-yard line of cars transporting rescued turtles to the Convention Center. “Our neighbors, our friends, our family – they waited in line for hours to drop off the turtles they had rescued, and then went back to save more,” McLellan said. Knight was overjoyed at the way people sprang into action in an emergency situation. “These people who have not had power or water in their own homes in three to four days, working 15 to 18 hours a

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day to save turtles,” she explained. “The gas stations were out of gas, and the grocery stores were out of water, and people still showed up. That says something about the caliber of our community.” Knight noted that the tiniest patients began to wake up first; it was so cute. They had been the first to freeze but also were the first to recover. “It’s very sweet right now, but it might not be for long,” she said. While bodily functions cease while turtles are comatose, they come right back once the creatures have recovered. “We needed the weather to warm up, or we were about to have 4,700 turtles ... awake.” Volunteers began the releasing operation a few days after the freeze when scientists were sure the waters were warm enough at 55-65 degrees. More than 2,200 were taken offshore to the open ocean of the Gulf of Mexico. Without rescue, without the selfless coming together of the SPI Community, the island’s sea turtle population would have been decimated by the cold, Knight says, wiping out four decades of conservation work to protect the region’s threatened reptiles, which also face dangers from boat strikes and entanglement in fishing gear. Today, Sea Turtle Inc. is fundraising to replace the 10 heaters used to regulate water temperature; they were destroyed in the outage. Founded in 1977, Sea Turtle, Inc. is a nonprofit education, rehabilitation, and conservation organization on South Padre Island. The center is funded through public donations and on-site gift shop sales. They receive no government funding. To support Sea Turtle, Inc., please visit its website at https://seaturtleinc.org.

SUMMER SOCIALIFE

SOCIALIFE

WHAT THE!~

ETIQUESTIONS Dr. Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa

When I go to the beach, I love to feed the seagulls. However, the last time I did that, the family that was next to us got mad. Is it appropriate to feed the seagulls at the beach? Feeding the seagulls is so much fun, but be sure that by doing so you are not disturbing the people around you. If you want to feed the seagulls, make sure you go very far away from where people are enjoying the beach. Consider the fact that when you

I love to go to the beach but I don’t always think about etiquette at the beach. What is one of your top recommendations for me to consider at the beach? In order for everyone to enjoy the beach, it is important that some etiquette is followed. The most common mistake people make at the beach is when they pick up their towels and shake the sand out. For the people downwind, they get showered

feed one seagull, shortly afterwards there will be many seagulls.

with sand. Be considerate and take your towel far away

Enjoy the beach and the birds, just always be considerate of the

so that you can shake the sand out without showering

people around you.

everyone around you.

We enjoy staying at different hotels at the beach.

I have

always wondered what the rules are for walking around the lobby in our swimsuits? Is it ok or do we need to get dressed when we go inside the lobby? It is recommended that anytime you go inside the lobby of hotel, you are dressed. If you are entering from the beach and have on your swimsuit, grab a coverup and make sure you put some shoes on. You will also want to make sure you have dried off and are not dripping wet while you walk around inside.

Barbara Baggerly-Hinojosa, Ph.D. is a wife, mother, and educator living in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas. She is a graduate of Our Lady of the Lake University with a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies. In addition, she holds an Associate of Arts degree in Education from McLennan Community College, Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Texas – Pan American, and a Master of Arts in Educational Supervision from the University of Texas – Pan American. Dr. Baggerly-Hinojosa’s current research is focused on servant leadership, gender issues in leadership, and leadership communication. www.leadershipempowermentgroup.com

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From 1968 to 1971, Gladys Porter and a team of experts were preparing to open a Zoo. Their mission was to build a Zoo that would strive to preserve endangered species. It was one of the first zoos that built its exhibits similar to the natural habitats of the animals that were going to live in them. The community was brewing with excitement as they saw the Zoo coming to fruition. Finally, on September 3rd, the Gladys Porter Zoo lifted its gate to the public, giving them the opportunity

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

to explore a world filled with exotic animals. People lined up to view animals they had never seen before, from western lowland gorillas to polar bears.

added Russell Aquatic Ecology Center as they view nurse sharks and other amazing aquatic animals swimming in a 30,000 gallon saltwater tank, which is a beautiful sight to see!

As the Zoo’s 50th anniversary is approaching, it is proud to state that after all these years it has continued its mission of preserving endangered species, and the Zoo has evolved and expanded its collection of animals.

There is now a playground- parents can relax as their children play or run through misters to cool off. Visitors are also able to feed our gentle giants, giraffes and Galapagos tortoises.

Visitors are now able to enjoy new exhibits and facilities that didn’t exist in the 1970’s. Today, one can stroll through the Zoo’s newly remodeled herpetarium, which is home to over 105 species of reptiles and 15 species of amphibians. They can also cool off in the newly

And one can’t forget to take a stroll down El Mundo Huasteco y Totonaco to view the adorable and capuchin monkeys. The Gladys Porter Zoo has evolved into a fascinating, world class zoo that its creator envisioned it to be.

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Tuesdays thru Labor Day SPI Fireworks Louie’s Backyard 9:15 p.m.

Thursdays thru Labor Day SPI Fireworks Isla Grand Beach Resort 9:15 p.m.

July 4

Friday & Saturday thru October 2 SPI Fireworks Clayton’s Beach Bar 9:00 p.m.

Intocable Red, White & Beach Festival Cameron County Amphitheater Save the Date SPI Fireworks Louie’s Backyard 9:15 p.m.

Sundays

July 10

SPI Farmers Market The Shores 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Art Fest ABISPI 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

July 2

July 11

Midland Concert Red, White & Beach Festival Cameron County Amphitheater Save the Date

July 3

Fourth of July Beach Parade Parks & Keep SPI Beautiful 9:30 a.m.

Ice Cube / Bone Thugs-n-Harmony / B Real "Dr GreenThumb" Cypress Hill Grand Celebration Cameron County Amphitheater Save the Date

SOCIALIFE SUMMER

The SPAZMATICS Courtyard by Marriott 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

July 14 Collage Workshop ABISPI 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

July 15 Social Thursday ABISPI 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

July 19 Figure Drawing ABISPI 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

July 21 Summer Blood Drive Community Center 8:30 am - 3:00 p.m.

July 23 Ron Hoover Fishing Tournament SPI Convention Center Save the Date

July 25 Painting & Drawing ABISPI 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

July 27 Printmaking Workshop ABISPI 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

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IF IT’S NOT HERE, IT’S NOT HAPPENING… Send us your event: admin@socialifergv.com

July 28

Collage Workshop ABISPI 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

July 28 - 31

81st TIFT Fishing Tournament Texas International Fishing Tournament SPI Convention Center Save the Date

July 30

Abstract Painting ABISPI 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

August 4 - 7

USLA National Championship United States Lifesaving Association Isla Grand Beach Resort Save the Date

August 6 - 8

40th Annual Ladies Kingfish Tournament SPI Convention Center Save the Date

August 7 - 8

Pro-Am Beach Soccer South Padre Island Summer Qualifier Beach Park at Isla Blanca Save the Date

August 14

Taco Fest 2021 Clayton’s Beach Bar 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Art Fest ABISPI 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

August 20 - 21

Fishing for Kids 3rd Annual Superintendent's Tournament McAllen ISD Louie’s Backyard - SPI Save the Date

August 28

Save the Date

September 5

SPI Fireworks Louie’s Backyard 9:15 p.m.

September 18

Summer Causeway Run & Fitness Walk Port Isabel Community Center Save the Date

September 25

GBO SPI Fit Expo SPI Convention Center 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

September 27 - October 3 SPI Sandcastle Days Clayton’s Beach Bar Save the Date

16th Annual Fishing for Hope Tournament SHR Health Louie’s Backyard Save the Date SOL Beach Festival Isla Blanca Park

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SUMMER SOCIALIFE 69

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SOCIALIFE SPI | SUMMER 2021

Articles inside

Island Community Rallies to Save Turtles

The Frankes

ABISPI Gallery

The Fun Finder - Dolphin Watch

Texas Space Coast

Get Out - Things To Do

Hang Like a Local