la posada kickoff a2 enchanted forest a4 rookery island ...enchanted forest a4 rookery island...

expand the adjacent water treatment plant. No city funds will be used for its construction nor maintenance. A second reading on the contract is needed and is expected to be included on the next city council Consent Agenda but Tuesday’s vote means a reversal of Tuesday’s decision is highly unlikely and work to make the park a reality can now begin.

The park site is located just west of the driveway entrance to the Padre Island Yacht Club and will include separate fenced areas for small and large dogs, water, shade, and turf. It will not be lighted and will close at sundown.

For information on the park or to donate time or funds see the Facebook page at Riley P. Dog Park.

FreeFree

The voice of The Island since 1996

December 6, 2018FREEWeekly

Issue 764 The

IslandMoon

Around The Island

By Dale Rankin

Inside the Moon

It’s big week on our little sandbar.

First of all it’s time for the 44th version of the La Posada Lighted Boat Parade. See all the pertinent information in this issue. Here’s hoping for good weather, but both the Friday and Saturday night parades go on no matter.

As we’ve have reported previously there are two new wrinkles this year, first the Friday night parade will end in the Intracoastal Waterway in front of Doc’s, Snoopy’s, and the newly improved Market 37. This is a great additional and hopefully parade watchers will pack all three places. Second, the Saturday parade will be televised live on KIII TV so we can watch the parade’s progress at deck parties Around The Island. Both nights promise to be a lot of fun.

Thank God It’s Padre

Islander Stevie Start went into The Zone Studio this week in Dripping Springs to record his Island anthem Thank God It’s Padre. The final mix is not yet done but should be ready in the next week.

The IGA will be open soon

I know it’s true because I read it in the Island Moon

Look for the release party when the final mix is done.

Yea, it really is going to happen…

So far the earth has not tilted on its axis, but there is still time…

The Corpus Christi City Council this week voted to approve a dog park on The Island. The details are in this issue, but the long and short of it is that now it’s time to make this happen. In the interest of full disclosure our own Jan Rankin is the Chair of the committee that has been working to get the project done so we do have a dog in this fight so to speak, but plenty of people have helped along the way. It’s been a long slog in a slow rain, but now it’s done. Psalms 40:30 tells us that good things happen to those who wait and goodness knows we’ve waited.

Good year so far…

So far it’s been quite a year Around The Island with construction underway on a grocery store, and a dog park. Now if we can get the Water Exchange Bridge off top dead center it could be a spectacular year.

A redesign of the bridge is currently underway at city hall to get the project back out to bids. It was originally bid in April 2016 and the cost came in at $11.5 million. But that was a time when financial issues began on the land west of the bridge site and things stalled due to a lack of commitment for the estimated $5 million needed to complete the canal leading to the bridge on that side.

City sources report that the two new private owners of the land surrounding and including the site of the water park have committed to funding the canal and now are working on the details for development and the newly designed bridge could go out to bids soon. The first $1.2 million for the bridge project was approved by voters in 2004 and we are still waiting. But hope springs eternal and barring any unforeseen circumstances

www.islandmoon.com

La Posada cont on A4

La Posada Kickoff A2

A little Island history

Enchanted Forest A4 Rookery Island Cleanup A15

Around cont. on A4

Seashore Happenings A11

27° 37' 0.5952'' N | 97° 13' 21.4068'' W

History cont. on A4

La Posada Lighted Boat Parade has a Rich Tradition

Photo by Miles Merwin

By Dale Rankin

This week marks the 44th year for the La Posada Lighted Boat Parade on Padre Island. As we swing into the year of the La Posada Lighted Boat Parade this weekend we are taking a look back to where it all began; with an idea among Island boaters.

It started in the early 1970s when Island houses were rare. The informal “parade” started at the Club House at Anchor Resort which was the original home of the Padre Island Sailing Society by a group of sailing enthusiasts who liked the acronym. Boaters began making an annual pilgrimage from dock party to dock party – a very informal affair.

Then in 1974 with the Gospel books of the Bible in mind Bishop

Thomas J. Drury from the Diocese of Corpus Christi decided to begin blessing the fleet in commemoration of the search by Mary and Joseph for lodging as described Bible going from house to house in their symbolic search for shelter. The boaters decorated their boats and sang Christmas carols at each stop.

In the beginning the boats set out from the canal across the street from the entrance to Padre Isles Country Club and eventually moved the muster point to the canal behind Anchor Resort where by then the Padre Island Yacht Club, so named in 1986, had set up shop. The La Posada Lighted Boat Parade as we now know it was officially an annual Island event.

The parade grew over the years and has become the largest single annual

event on The Island. Its offspring – the Fourth of July Boat Parade – was done as a one-time-only event – also

La Posada ornament

The site of the Riley P. Dog Park will be about two hundred feet west of the current location of the fence at the Padre Island Yacht Club.

DOG PARK!City Council Unanimously Approves Island Dog Park!

2.5 acres at west end of Whitecap

By Dale Rankin

The Corpus Christi City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved a 2.5-acre site adjacent to the Padre Island Yacht Club, at the west end of Whitecap Boulevard, for the construction of the long-sought-after Riley P. Dog Park.

The vacant parcel of land is owned by the City of Corpus Christi’s Water Department and will be leased to the Riley P. Dog Park, LLC, 501 (C) (3) formed for the purpose of collecting donations for the park. Collections for the park were begun in 2013 but stalled as the site for the park moved three times before settling on the Whitecap location. The fund currently has $26,000 in cash and pledged donations and will actively begin to marshal the resources to build and maintain the park. Fundraising was suspended in 2017 until a location for the park was determined. The records of all funds, incoming and outgoing since Jan Park-Rankin was appointed as president of the board in April of 2016 will be listed for public viewing

either on the park’s Facebook page or website.

The lease term is for five years with the park operators responsible for construction and maintenance of the park. Work will begin as soon as possible. According to terms of the lease the City of Corpus Christi can reclaim the land if it is needed to

Dog Park Site Layout

2

Whitecap Wastewater

Treatment Plant

Dog Park

Riley P. Dog

Site of new park

Volunteers

It’s Time to La Posada!

44th Lighted Boat Parades take to

canals Friday and Saturday

The toys are gathered at the Yacht Club with care in hopes the Marine Corp soon will be there.

The 44th version of the La Posada Lighted Boat Parade kicks off Friday evening in the North Canal and will end in the Intracoastal Waterway where public viewing is available. On Saturday muster for the boats begins at 5:30 p.m. and live coverage on KIII television begins at 6:30

By the Numbers

How much do we owe?

Editor’s note: The Texas Comptroller’s office this week released its comprehensive report on the financial position for taxing entities around the state. The following numbers were taken from that report.

City of Corpus Christi

396,394 2017 Population

$474,810,000 Tax Supported Debt

(Second highest in state for comparable sized city)

$1,546 Outstanding Debt Per Capita

$792,185,000 Revenue Supported Debt

Lubbock (Highest)

$1,047,295,000 Tax Supported Debt

Brownsville (Lowest)

$135,685,000 Tax Supported Debt

Corpus Christi Regional Transport Authority

93.1% $2,383,237 Unfunded Liability

$4,188 Unfunded Liability by member

569 Total Members in Plan

Corpus Christi Firefighters

62.14% Funded Ratio

$85,995,868 Unfunded Liability

$116,054 Unfunded Liability Per Member

741 Total Members in Plan

San Antonio Police and Fire Pension Plan

90.34% Funded Ratio

$341,700,790 Unfunded Liability

$51,554 Unfunded Liability Per Member

6,628 Total Members in Plan

Early Voting Begins SaturdayEarly Voting for the December 18

Runoff Election begins Saturday, December 8 and runs through Friday, December 14.

At the top of the ballot is the race for Corpus Christi Mayor between incumbent Joe McComb and challenger Michael Hall.

Weekend voting hours are noon-5 p.m. and weekday hours are from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Convenient Early Voting sites for Islanders are:

Schlitterbahn -14353 Commodores Drive

Voting cont on A4

Holiday Home Tour A16

December 6, 2018 Island Moon A 2

La Posada Kick-off Party

Three ladies that liked the same dress decided to buy one each and wear them to

the La Posada Kickoff Party.

Photos by Debbie Noble


Moon MonkeysMike Ellis, Founder

Distribution

Pete Alsop

Island Delivery

Coldwell Banker

Advertising

Jan Park Rankin

Classifieds

Arlene Ritley

Production Manager Abigail Bair

Contributing Writers

Joey FarahAndy PurvisMary Craft

Kelly TrevinoJay GardnerTodd Hunter

Dotson LewisDr. Tom DorrellRonnie Narmour

Brent Rourk

Photographers

Miles Merwin (Emeritus)

Debbie Noble

Jan Rankin

Mary Craft

Ronnie Narmour

Office Security/Spillage Control (Emeritus)

Riley P. Dog

Publisher

Dale RankinAbout the Island Moon

The Island Moon is published every Thursday, Dale Rankin, Editor / Publisher.

Total circulation is 10,000 copies. Distribution includes delivery to 4,000 Island homes, free distribution of 3,000

copies in over 50 Padre Island businesses and condos, as well as 600 copies distributed in Flour Bluff, 1,400 copies on Mustang Island and Port Aransas businesses.

News articles, photos, display ads, classified ads,

payments, etc. may be left at the Moon Office.

The Island Moon Newspaper

14646 Compass, Suite 3

Corpus Christi, TX 78418

361-949-7700

[email protected]

Facebook: The Island Moon Newspaper

Port Aransas

Gulf Stream RV

Pioneer RV

Stripes on 1A

My Coastal Home

WB Liquor Store

Island Wine Room

Kody’s

Coffee Waves

Moby Dicks

IGA

Treasure Island

Ms. Woody’s Automotive

Port A Glass Studio

San Juan’s Restaurant

Wash Tub

Woody’s Sports Center

Back Porch Bar

Shorty’s Place

Fisherman’s Wharf

Giggity’s

Gratitude

The Gaff Trinity By the Sea

Episcopal

Where to Find The Island Moon

North Padre

All Stripes Stores

Black Sheep/Barrel

CVS

Whataburger

Doc’s Restaurant

Snoopy’s Pier

Isle Mail N More

Island Italian

Brooklyn Pie Co.

Ace Hardware

Holiday Inn

Texas Star (Shell)

Jesse’s Liquor

Scuttlebutt’s Restaurant

Subway

Island Tire

Padre Pizzeria

And all Moon retail advertisers

WB Liquor

Flour BluffH.E.B.

Whataburger on Waldron

Ethyl Everly Senior Center

Fire Station

Police Station

Stripes on Flour Bluff & SPID

Letters to the Editor

POA AgendaTuesday, December 11th

Members of the audience will be provided an opportunity to address the Board during Public Comment. Please speak into the microphone located at the podium and state your name and address. Your presentation will be limited to three minutes. Please sign in prior to the meeting with your name, physical address, email address and the subject to be addressed.

1)CALL TO ORDER

2)RECEIVE CONFLICT OF INTEREST STATEMENT

3)PRESENTATIONS WITH POSSIBLE BOARD ACTIONS:

a)The following presentations:

i)Auditor's Update: Nita Jayroe, CPA (Jennings, Hawley & Co., P. C.)

ii)Billish Park Update: Craig Thompson, P.E. (Hanson Engineering)

iii)Police Presentation: Capt. Anthony Sanders (Corpus Christi Police Dept.)

b)ISAC/TIRZ Representative Report

4)MEMBERS' COMMENTS (3 minutes/member)

5)PRESIDENT'S COMMENTS:

a)Board of Directors Vacancy

b)Assistant Secretary Appointment

c)Current Topics oflnterest

6) EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT - The Board will receive a report of important topics since the previous meeting.

a) Next Board Meeting: Tuesday, January 22, 2019.

7) CONSENT AGENDA: (Routine items; acceptable without further discussion)

a) Secretary's Report: October 23, 2018 Board Meeting Minutes

8) COMMITTEE REPORTS:

a) Compliance Committee - Minutes - Alan Rickertson, Chair

b) Architectural Control Committee - Presentation -Tom Cable, Chair

c) Canals and Waterways Committee - Minutes - Bill Sargent, Chair

9) TREASURER'S REPORT - FINANCIAL REPORTS: (The Board will review, discuss, and then accept all financial reports, with possible Board action.)

a) Bank Accounts Update

10) OLD BUSINESS: (With Possible Board Action)

a) Channel Markers-status update

b) POA Board & Employees background-RSI

11) NEW BUSINESS: (With Possible Board Action)

a) Meeting with Corpus Christi Police, re: Cobo de Bara

b) Appointment of Robert Pruski to ACC as co-chair

c) Assistant Secretary Appointment

12) EXECUTIVE SESSION: Following completion of Board business, the public portion of the meeting will recess, and the Board may go into executive session to cover attorney consultation, personnel issues, enforcement actions and other confidential matters.

13) RECONVENE IN OPEN SESSION (Possible voting)

14) ADJOURN

POA VacancyThe Padre Isles Property Owners Association,

Inc. has an empty Board Seat. A Board Member resigned which has left an open seat. If you would like to be a Board Member please notify the PIPOA Office of your interest in being appointed to the vacant seat. Please send with your notice a brief biography. The length of the appointment will be approximately 2 years and 4 months. This is NOT an elected position but rather an appointment by the PIPOA Board by a PIPOA Board vote. Contact Jim Smock, Executive Director at [email protected].

POA Compliance Committee Meeting

AgendaDecember 12th, 2018 – 6:00 pm

PIPOA Office

*Comments from public. (3 minutes each)

*Discussion concerning revised Article 46 from the PIPOA Board Policy Manual.

(Possible committee action)

At the conclusion of our last meeting, Scott S. brought up an idea and I think it something for this committee to discuss. The idea goes something like this:

Should Compliance Personnel view their job as being a “service” to the members, as opposed to “enforcement”? As an example, for “responsible” property owners, the Compliance Associates could help them (not

do it for them) locate a mowing service and/or a landscaping service. For nonresident owners, as the Associate’s duties take them through the different neighborhoods, check on properties to make sure the services are being provided and keep nonresident property owners informed. Should the goal of the PIPOA Compliance Department be to try and make 5,408 property owners happy, not 1,000+ members angry?

*Changing the Job Descriptions for the PIPOA Compliance personnel.


*Discuss infractions to be on an “Official List” of compliance violations.


Compliance Committee Chairperson

Alan Rickertsen

Art GalleryDale,

The Moon reported that the gallery at My Coastal Home is the Island's first. Some years ago there was an art gallery facing PR 22 called The Yellow Pelican. It was housed in the yellow building. My wife and I purchased some wonderful pieces of art there to decorate our island home.

Regards, Rick Gangemi

Surfrider PartyThis Saturday 12/08/2018 the Texas Coastal

Bend Chapter Surfrider Foundation and the Boathouse Bar and Grill will be hosting the annual Christmas Party Fundraiser from 6-11PM. Would it be possible to get something displayed in the Island Moon to highlight the upcoming event? We have the official poster with all of the details listed as well if that would help. We will have live bands, food, silent and live auctions, as well as a raffle for some surfboards.

Best, Holly Thomas TXCBC Surfrider Foundation PR Coordinator

Help Picking Up La Posada Toy Donations

Hello, neighbors. We are a blessed community. Let's share these blessings with others around us. As you all know, LaPosada toy drive is this weekend. I know many neighbors have toys to donate but can't attend this weekend for varying reasons. I would like to offer to pick up any toys our neighbors are willing to donate, or you may drop them off to me (whichever works for you), and I will take them all to donate at one of the designated pick up locations this Saturday. Just send me an email and I am happy to help. You can contact me at [email protected]. I will pick up until noon on Saturday. Let us together help the less fortunate children that may not have much of a Christmas, in the spirit of the season. Have a blessed start to this holiday season.

Dr. George Potter

DucksDuck hunters and nature lovers with North

Padre Outdoors conducted almost a dozen clean up events over the last year including cleaning the main canal before Paddle for Parkinsons.

Check out North Padre Outdoors on Facebook if you want to pitch in!

Matthew J. Merrill

Did Ya Hear?

New AdvertisersVillage by the Beach has fully furnished

one bedroom units for sale by owner for $199,500. They are located on Leeward Drive near Beach Access Road 3. Call Roy at 479-841-4999.

Business BriefsTexas Red’s Riviera Bar in Port A

will have its grand opening on Saturday, December 8th. Matt Hole & the Hot Rod Gang will be the featured band. They are located at 315 South Alister where Lovett’s Bar was formerly.

Riley P. Dog Park will be on 2.5 acres next to the water treatment plant at the end of Whitecap. Over the years $26,000 in donations has been collected but more is needed, as well as volunteers. There will be a link for donations in the Riley P. Dog Facebook page but for now you can send a check to 14646 Compass Suite 3. To volunteer send message on Facebook page.

Mikel May’s at Bob Hall Pier has all the football sports packages and you can watch them on their ten new TVs. Their happy hour is extended throughout the games and is the usual 3 – 7 pm on weekdays. The Saturday Brunch is served 8 am – noon and Sunday Brunch 8 am – 2 pm. To book your holiday party call them at 949-7437.

Santa Claus will be at Schlitterbahn every Saturday at 6 pm for pics with your kids or fur babies until Christmas.

The Island Holiday Art & Farmers Market will be held at Briscoe Pavilion on Thursday, December 6th 4 – 8 pm.

The Slip Cocktail Bar will be serving complimentary subs and chips on Football Sunday starting at noon.

The Coastal Bend Chapter Surfrider Foundation will be hosting the annual Christmas Party Fundraiser at the Boathouse Bar & Grill on Saturday, December 8th 6 – 11 pm. There will be live bands, food, raffles and live and silent auctions.

Ray Wylie Hubbard will be entertaining at the Third Coast Theater in Port A on December 14th and 15th 8 pm. Tickets are $30.

The Island Gallery at My Coastal Home will be open Sundays this month noon – 5 pm.

I appreciate all those concerned about my optometric office in the Sears building that I have had since 1994. The Corpus Christi Sears store is not closing. The plan by billionaire CEO Eddie Lambert is to purchase the approximately 300 profitable stores, of which Corpus is one, and continue the name brand. Sears is not part of the Sunrise Mall ghost town. It was there before the mall. So pass the word, neither Sears nor I are going anywhere. Pop in and say hello if you visit the store.

By Mary "Scoop" Craft

Life LessonsBy Abigail Bair

La Posada cont. from A1

Send Letters and Photos to [email protected]

and follow us on Facebook: The Island Moon

Newspaper.The Island Moon is available online at islandmoon.com



and follow us on Facebook: The Island Moon

Newspaper

History cont. from A1

Early voting cont. from A1

blessed by Bishop Drury – to commemorate the United States Bicentennial in 1976 and then also became an annual event. Then in August 1996, the doors to the current home of the Yacht Club, the two-story building at the west end of Whitecap were opened and that location became Ground Zero for the parade as boats line up in the water east of Whitecap and made the turn past the Yacht Club where the Judge’s Stand was located. This was the choice spot for parade watching as this is where the boats would make their promenade to impress the judges.

But as the parade and the number of boats on The Island grew a problem arose; judges would often look at their scorecard with a list of boats which had officially entered the parade and often it didn’t match the boats they saw passing before the judges’ stand as some boaters who didn’t bother to enter the parade just jumped in Island Style wherever they saw an opening. It caused some confusion and as the boats would linger at the Yacht Club while seeking judges’ approval the boats would string out as they entered the Main Canal where most of the deck parties awaited.

To remedy the problem four years ago the Coast Guard Axillary got involved and the Muster Point was moved to the Cartagena Canal just north of Whitecap and the judging was done there so the boats could be judged as they left the starting gate to avoid mix ups with interlopers. That system has worked very well and also served to keep the boats more together as they move off the start and into the canal system.

The in 1998 Toys for Tots was added as the event’s charity and it has now become the largest since toy-raising event in Texas. Eight years ago the La Posada Kickoff Party was added and this year, for the first time the Friday parade will extended to pass viewing areas along the Intracoastal Waterway and the Saturday night parade will be televised by KIII television.

So when you take part in the La Posada Boat Parade you are helping to grow an Island tradition that began as an informal get together way back when a new home cost $34,900, gas was 55 cents per gallon, inflation was 11%, and President Richard Nixon took his last ride in Air Force One.

Around cont. from A1the bridge will get built but the timetable at this juncture is unknown. Stay tuned.

So it’s time to La Posada everybody and this year’s event will be a good one. We’ll see you around the bean dip, in the meantime for goodness sake say hello if you see us Around The Island.

Ethel Eyerly Senior Center

654 Graham Road, Flour Bluff

Nueces County Courthouse

901 Leopard Street

Corpus Christi City Hall

1201 Leopard Street,

*Closed 12/8 & 12/9

Deaf & Hard of Hearing Center

5151 McArdle Road

p.m. Featured celebrities for the event are film and television actor Pepe Serna and his niece singer Clarissa Serna who will ride in the third boat in the parade and do live shots for the KIII broadcast. Kicking off the parade will be a fireboat with water cannons from Emergency Management District #2.

For the first time in the event’s forty-four year history public viewing areas will be offered for the Friday event along the Intracoastal Waterway at the newly renovated Marker 37, Doc’s Seafood & Steaks, and Snoopy’s Pier. La Posada Foundation Chairman Fred Edler has been making appearances on radio and television outlets across the city to invite visitors to the Friday night event which will begin in the North Channel and end at the three businesses. The parade will start in the north channel shortly after sundown. Marker 37 will have a live band, with food, drinks, and their 600-foot pier on ICW. Doc's will have live music, food and drinks, and viewing from the second story's on ICW. Snoopy’s will have reduced prices, drinks, large viewing area.

The La Posada event raises the most toys for any event in the state for Toys for Tots sponsored by the U.S. Marines. Last year the event collected 4100 toys and $20,000 to purchase toys for kids in Nueces, San Patricio, and Aransas counties. Toy collector boats will be in the parade to stop at decks to load toys.

Full information and forms to enter the parades and a map of the Saturday parade are included in this issue.

It’s time to La Posada everybody…come rain or shine.

Clarissa Serna

Pepe Serna in Scarface with Al Pacino

La Posada survived the Disco Era

Who Ate the Turkey Jerky?

This guy was overwhelmed with the Christmas spirit while his humans were away and he chewed open a bag of turkey jerky and ate all but three pieces – figuring if the left a

few pieces behind no one would notice the rest were missing.His plan went awry when unfortunately the empty bag got stuck on his head and when

his humans returned blaming it on the cat was out of the question and plausible deniability alluded him. The look on his face tells the story but who could be mad at a

guy like that right? Even if he is a turkey jerky thief…Merry Christmas little guy.

Timon's Enchanted Forest

Timon's Ministries held their annual Enchanted Forest Christmas Tree Auction at the Waterline at Doc's. Photos by Debbie Noble

Port A. Holiday Parade

Port Aransas held their annual Holiday parade last weekend. Photos by Ronnie Narmour


Stuff I Heard on the IslandBy Dale Rankin

Send letters and photos to [email protected]

It seemed like a no-brainer when it started out six years ago. An Island with

a population of nearly 20,000 people and five city parks, none of which were usable because of the sticker crop, should have a place where people can let their dogs run free for a while. For years Port Aransas has had a dog park that is constantly busy and it turns out that dog parks are really people parks too, after all dog-owners who by inclination have a lot in common, have to do something while the dogs play and so they talk. Friendships are built that go well beyond the dog park. But this is Corpus Christi where dreams often go to die.

But it was worth a try. So a group was formed and we started looking for a spot. The first place we looked was Billish Park but soon found out that deed restrictions prohibit a dog park there, then Commodores, the largest of the Island’s city parks at nineteen acres, but there was no infrastructure and it was located along a busy street. We settled on Aquarius Park as centrally located and already adopted by a group who were working to put community gardens there. Trouble began before we even got started as we were standing there just looking around when a lady showed up and informed us in no uncertain terms that there would never be a dog park there because she didn’t want it.

That led to a hearing before the Island Strategic Action Committee, which wasn’t even voting on the dog park, in which a fellow got up and described his abject horror over the possibility of dog feces making its way into his barbecue pit from a dog park located several hundred feet away. The mechanics of that were never really explained but the Not In My Backyard crowd wasn’t the only problem.

Fido’s Pipedream

Somewhere along the way a clause had crept into the City of Corpus Christi’s Park Master Plan that, while not outright prohibiting it, discouraged the approval of a dog park in any city park of less than fifty acres. Since our five city parks combined only had forty-nine acres the future of a dog park on The Island seemed like Fido’s pipedream.

A piece of property near the water tower on the far south end of the Island was one possibility and fundraising started. But it soon became clear that the piece of land there was in a floodplain and would need a large amount of expensive fill dirt. Further, the park there would share a fence with the open and coyote infested fields further south; hungry coyotes and little yappy dogs conjured up nightmare scenarios of dognapping. Next try was Balli County Park but once again use restrictions in the conveyance documents when the land was donated meant it would never happen. We stopped collecting money because we couldn’t tell anyone when or if a dog park would ever actually happen. Things weren’t looking good. It was time for a new approach.

A new approach

For years the land between the Padre Island Yacht Club and the Whitecap Wastewater Treatment Plant got used once each year when the Fourth of July fireworks show was set up there. The rest of the time if grew weeds and was home to one giant jackrabbit. Because it

belonged to the city water department rather than parks it was not subject to the fifty-acre rule for dog parks.

With some research it turned out that the land was set aside by the original developers of The Island for expansion of the plant if needed, but the 6.5 acres there was much more than would ever be needed even if all the land on The Island was developed and the current plant is sufficient for the foreseeable future. So there was some land that could be had. The city, through the water department, had lease agreements with nine groups across the city for various uses such as the archery club, so why not a dog park? There weren’t any houses close by and besides, who could complain about a dog park when it would be located next to sewer plant?

We contacted Parks Director Jay Ellington and started the process of leasing the land; that was about six months ago and the wheels started moving, but slowly. We contacted City Councilman Greg Smith and that’s when things started happening. We got a copy of a lease about a month ago and after some back and forth on the language things worked out and the lease went to the city council on Tuesday. According to the rules it needed a two-thirds vote for approval, six votes on what was usually a nine-member council but now only eight; three nay votes would kill the idea. But when it was all said and done it was unanimous. There really isn’t a down side for the city since they have the right to reclaim the property on ninety days’ notice and the park will get no city money. It is up to us Islanders to make it happen. We’re going to need plenty of volunteers for all kinds of things, it’s going to be up to us to mow the grass and keep it watered. We’re also going to need to move some dirt and some fences.

But at least we now have a place for a dog park. Former Moon Columnist Riley P. Dog would be happy and he may even be speaking from the Great Beyond about taking up his column again. He writes short because his nose gets sore from hitting the keys…

Thank you…

There are some people who need to be thanked. In the beginning Sarah XXX who took the leadership role, formed the 501 (c) (3) and started raising money. When she left The Island Jan Rankin took up the cause along with the dedicated members of the board. Without them the idea would have died long ago.

District 4 City Councilman Greg Smith who made getting the park done a priority and pushed it through the city process. Becky Perrin and Jay Ellington at the City Parks Department who did all of the things that have to be done to get it to the city council for approval. Our friend Dotson Lewis who is head of the park board, and who lives in the house second-closest to it, who worked the machinery to get the idea before the council.

And finally to the members of the council and Mayor Joe McComb who pushed it across the goal line. There is a second reading next week which, according to form should be on the Consent Agenda. Six years after the effort began we are going to have a dog park at the best place on The Island for watching a sunset.

Now it’s time to get to work.

Q. I am considering posting manager vacancies publicly at the work site and inviting all who want to be considered to apply. Is that a good idea?

A. It has potential good results, but potential bad results depending on how you handle it. On the positive side, it can give employees fairer, faster access to advance their career. You may also get better candidates to consider. On the negative side, it can be a big downer for the employee not selected and you may lose that employee. You should plan to give career planning help and encouragement to the employee who loses out. It can result in politicking among the candidates as candidates seek allies to help their cause.

Employers chose current employees to fill 21% of vacancies in 2017 compared to 11% in 2016. That indicates it’s a growing trend and good for present employees. Human Resource consultants suggest candidates should decide what they will do if they lose before becoming a candidate. They should also evaluate how well the position fits into their long-range career plans and personal plans. Following are 6 tips for candidates who apply:

• Avoid allowing the competition to damage your relationships with your co-workers.

• Acknowledge your rivals’ applications in a friendly way.

• Don’t undermine or sabotage other candidates.

• Don’t let applying for internal openings become a substitute for making your own long-term career plans.

• If you win, don’t flaunt it. Respect others feelings and celebrate outside the work site.

• If you lose, be gracious to the winner. Congratulate the winner and talk about the positive things you learned in the process.

One survey indicated the losers were 2 ½ times more likely to resign in the following 6 to 12 months. Most likely, the loser was a key employee to be considered for the promotion. Have the manager or HR manager create something worthwhile for the loser. Council with the loser about their career plans and hopes, express appreciation for their good work and assure them they will be considered for future vacancies.

In my career, I found the old process for filling vacancies to be better. The worker’s manager was asked to submit candidates for consideration. As plant manager, I consulted with the manager and other managers who worked closely with the candidate and could evaluate their qualifications for the job.

How Do I Control My Temper?By Ralph Coker

Ask Ralph

Tides of the WeekTides for Bob Hall Pier December 6 - December 13

Day High Tide Height Sunrise Moon Time Moon /Low Time in Feet Sunset Visible

Th 6 Low 7:51 AM -0.2 7:06 AM Rise 6:21 AM 2

6 High 4:43 PM 1.9 5:34 PM Set 5:25 PM

F 7 Low 8:25 AM -0.3 7:07 AM Rise 7:18 AM 0

7 High 5:29 PM 1.9 5:34 PM Set 6:11 PM

Sa 8 Low 8:58 AM -0.3 7:07 AM Rise 8:12 AM 0

8 High 6:11 PM 1.9 5:35 PM Set 6:58 PM

Su 9 Low 9:30 AM -0.3 7:08 AM Rise 9:03 AM 2

9 High 6:49 PM 1.8 5:35 PM Set 7:49 PM

M 10 Low 10:02 AM -0.2 7:09 AM Rise 9:50 AM 5

10 High 7:24 PM 1.7 5:35 PM Set 8:40 PM

Tu 11 Low 10:35 AM -0.1 7:09 AM Rise 10:34 AM 11

11 High 7:54 PM 1.7 5:35 PM Set 9:32 PM

W 12 Low 11:10 AM 0.0 7:10 AM Rise 11:14 AM 17

12 High 8:21 PM 1.6 5:36 PM Set 10:25 PM

Th 13 Low 11:46 AM 0.1 7:11 AM Rise 11:51 AM 25

13 High 8:44 PM 1.5 5:36 PM Set 11:17 PM

$6.00 off any oil change!

Islander of the Week

Our Islander of the Week this time is longtime Islander Fred Edler who has led the charge to make the 44th Annual La Posada Lighted Boat Parade happen.

He arranged for the extension of the Friday night parade to include a public viewing area along the Intracoastal Waterway and made a deal with KIII television

to televise the Saturday parade live. For the past two weeks he has been making early morning appearances on both radio and television to publicize the event and has also been accumulating raffle prizes to raise money for the Marine’s Toys for

Tots.He’s been the busiest fellow on The Island for quite a while and after this week can take a little Island Time. But for his work on this year’s La Posada he is our

Islander of the Week.

Acme brand "Coyote Defense Suit"

Pearl Harbor. About four enemy fighters which took off were promptly shot down. By 0800 hours there were no enemy planes in the air, and our fighters began strafing the airfields.

My level-bombing group had entered on its bombing run toward the battleships moored to the cast of Ford Island. On reaching an altitude of 3,000 meters, I had the sighting bomber take position in front of my plane.

As we closed in, enemy antiaircraft fire began to concentrate on us. Dark gray puffs burst all around. Most of them came from ships' batteries, but land batteries were also active. Suddenly my plane bounced as if struck by a club. When I looked back to see what had happened, the radioman said: 'The fuselage is holed and the rudder wire damaged.' We were fortunate that the plane was still under control, for it was imperative to fly a steady course as we approached the target. Now it was nearly time for 'Ready to release,' and I concentrated my attention on the lead plane to note the instant his bomb was dropped. Suddenly a cloud came between the bombsight and the target, and just as I was thinking that we had already overshot, the lead plane banked slightly and turned right toward Honolulu. We had missed the release point because of the cloud and would have to try again.

While my group circled for another attempt, others made their runs, some trying as many as three before succeeding. We were about to begin our second bombing run when there was a colossal explosion in battleship row. A huge column of dark red smoke rose to 1000 meters. It must have been the explosion of a ship's powder magazine. (This was the Battleship Arizona) The shock wave was felt even in my plane, several miles away from the harbor.

We began our run and met with fierce antiaircraft concentrations. This time the lead bomber was successful, and the other planes of the group followed suit promptly upon seeing the leader's bombs fall. I immediately lay flat on the cockpit floor and slid open a peephole cover in order to observe the fall of the bombs. I watched four bombs plummet toward the earth. The target - two battleships moored side by side - lay ahead. The bombs became smaller and smaller and finally disappeared. I held my breath until two tiny puffs of smoke flashed suddenly on the ship to the left, and I shouted, 'Two hits!'

When an armor-piercing bomb with a time fuse hits the target, the result is almost unnoticeable from a great altitude. On the other hand, those which miss are quite obvious because they leave concentric waves to ripple out from the point of contact, and I saw two of these below. I presumed that it was battleship Maryland we had hit.'

As the bombers completed their runs they headed north to return to the carriers. Pearl Harbor and the air bases had been pretty well wrecked by the fierce strafing and bombings. The imposing naval array of an hour before was gone. Antiaircraft fire had become greatly intensified, but in my continued observations I saw no enemy fighter planes. Our command of the air was unchallenged."

As the first wave of the attack made its way back to its carriers, Commander Fuchida remained over the target in order to assess damage and to observe the second wave attack. He returned to his carrier after the second wave successfully completed its mission.

Dotson’s Other Note: There you are…I believe the foregoing is worthwhile reading…as I recall, there is a saying, “Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”* For sure, no one in their right mind wants a repeat of Pearl Harbor. Thank you for reading and commenting on Senior Moments. I can be reached at: [email protected] and/or Land Line: 361-949-7681 or Cell: 530-748-8475.

*History question, who is usually credited with this statement?

Please Note: The next Veterans Round Table Meeting will be Tuesday, December 11, 2011; 9-11 AM, 3209 S. Staples. All veterans, their families and anyone interested in veterans’ affairs, are invited. Coffee & doughnuts are provided. Hope to see you there. Also our Veterans Radio Round Table is on the air on KEYS AM 1440, 8 – 10 AM, Saturdays. The next show will air December 8, 2018. Please listen and call in. The listener/text line is: 361-882-5397…It’s your two hours, let us hear from you.

Hang in there/Have fun!

December 6, 2018Island MoonA6

Anecdotingly

By Abigail Bair

The Key Crack'dI encountered a pretty serious obstacle on

Thanksgiving Day as I attempted to exit my house – my fantastic Hulk-level hand strength snapped my key in the lcok, leaving the lower half stuck in the deadbolt. I know you’re thinking that I probably dissolved into a fit of “O’wailey woe, whatever shall I do,” but I didn’t. I just exited through the front door, which I then had to leave unlocked because the key was broken. I turned my alarm to “more sensitive than a soap opera heroine on extra estrogen” before I left. I have a strong suspicion that this tactic may have been futile as I have personally accidentally triggered my alarm so many times that the operators at Simply Safe don’t take codes coming from my house with any kind of seriousness:

Them: Ma’am are you safe? Do you need us to send the police?

Me: Oh hi, Sharon! I did it again. How was your son’s birthday last week?

Sharon: Hey, Abs! It was good. We had Iron Man at the party. How did your column come out?

They’re really more of an extended family.

I got my spare key from the G.P. (Great Provider, my Dad) which solved the front door locking issue. I’ll admit that part of me wanted to resolve the rest of the problem by never using the backdoor again, but every time I advanced this option, I heard the Rev’s voice in my head saying, “FIRE EXITS ARE IMPORTANT!” This is especially true for me. I once set a kitchen ablaze trying to make toast.

When the backdoor doesn’t work, I have to walk all the way around the side of the house (maybe 100 feet) to get to the garage. I’m so dramatic that I walked the short distance each time like I was in a gulag on the way to a dinner of rotten potatoes and rottener vodka. The neighbors get upset when I hunch around with a scarf tied over my head syllabically singing Russian funeral dirges. I didn't want to wind up neighborhood weirdo on Nextdoor.com (again).

Now many of you fine folks have the means and motivation to just call your friendly neighborhood locksmith when this happens. Not me. Wikihow gave me a solution in three simple steps:

1) Spray inside the keyhole with penetrating oil (there is actually a brand of grease called “Penetrating Oil.” Dad has some. The graphics on the can are disappointingly unfunny).

2) Return the key to the “unlock position” using needle-nose pliers.

3) Remove the key. If the key does not come out, use a small saw blade to “rake” the key free.

It was one of the easiest fixes ever. I returned Dad’s tools to him and he hit me with a, “Good job. Did you get a new key made?”

Now it should be noted that I used to have loads of extra keys until my brother got ahold of them and then moved them to Hawaii and later Germany (my spare keys are having quite the vacation). Other copies were relegated to various odd key chains and strange metal boxes. There are probably more keys in existence for my doors and gate than there are copies of the Twilight Saga. Giant books about wussy vampires (while being much less useful) are considerably easier to locate, though.

I felt bad that Dad didn’t have a key. It was Black Friday, however, so I wasn’t inclined to go anywhere. The fact that I wasn’t hiding under my bed drinking boxed wine and watching all the Star Wars movies on my laptop represented huge personal progress for me. I loathe stores, shopping and crowds with a ferocity most reserve for root canals. I again turned to Google.

An independent locksmith had a store that was actually really close to my house! “Problem solved,” thought I, imagining how proud my father would be. Google said that Lock Doc was open 24 hours a day, which seemed a bit generous, but surely they would be open at 2 p.m. on a Friday. I drove over to the store only to find the cinderblock building sealed like Fort Knox. There were no windows on the front of the building – the only possible entrance was a solid steel garage door pulled down and double locked. “How the heck do you get in there?” I thought. You couldn’t even go around back because the way was blocked by a six-foot chain link fence.

This guy was the smartest locksmith in the history of the world. He knew that every lock can be defeated (because that’s his job), extrapolated from that premise and came up with the idea to make fewer entrances. I decided that you could only get into the shop through secret (possibly interdimensional) portals, at least one of which was probably on the roof. A complicated system of boobie-trapped subterranean tunnels certainly provided further access. Also, the pictures on Google made it look like the only thing the store sold was keys and two ton safes. Try hauling one of those bad boys though a secret (probably interdimensional) hole in the roof! This guy was the Indiana Jones of locksmiths.

A few days later, I figured out from Facebook what the actual operating hours of the store were, and headed over there to have my keys made. The steel garage door had covered a regular-as-snot glass door. I admit disappointment. I was sincerely hoping for interdimensional-roof-portals.

I awkwardly tried to tell the clerk my incredibly-rad-unified-theory-of locksmithery, but he looked at me like I was insane. “People just walk in here all the time,” he said (in a gently confused tone), “even when the OPEN sign is turned off.”

My disappointment must have been noticeable because, as he handed me my latest set of spare keys he allowed that, “They are pretty dang serious about locking up around here” which confirmed my Interdimensional Roof Portal theory.

“You betcha,” I replied with a joyful wink.

I can’t wait to go back so that I can stare at their ceiling. It won’t be long before I have to visit.

My latest set of keys is probably already on safari

Attack on Pearl HarborBy Dotson Lewis Special to the Island Moon

Senior Moments

Dotson’s note: I cogitated at length before doing the research for this for this report, knowing full well that I have written reports previously for The Island Moon regarding Pearl Harbor. This is a different take, which is from the Japanese perspective and is to this day, truly “A Day Which Lives In Infamy.” Thanks to Mitsuo Fuchida, Masatake Okumiya and Walter Lord for many of the facts contained in this report. Thanks to my friends in Japan for the photos contained herein.

The Japanese View

The Japanese attack fleet left its home waters on November 26 steaming a circuitous route towards Pearl Harbor. Fleet Commander, Vice Admiral Nagumo, received his final orders on December 1st, and on the morning of December 7th, the battle group was in position 275 miles north of Hawaii. At 6:00 AM the first elements of the air attack consisting of fighter aircraft, torpedo bombers, high-level bombers and dive-bombers were aloft and assembling in the pre-dawn gloom.

"Surprise Attack Successful!"

Commander Mitsuo Fuchida led the first wave of the air attack and published his recollections in Japanese in 1951. These were later published in English in 1955. This is his story as he approaches the Hawaiian coast:

"One hour and forty minutes after leaving the carriers I knew that we should be nearing our goal. Small openings in the thick cloud cover afforded occasional glimpses of the ocean, as I strained my eyes for the first sight of land. Suddenly a long white line of breaking surf appeared directly beneath my plane. It was the northern shore of Oahu.

Veering right toward the west coast of the island, we could see that the sky over Pearl Harbor was clear. Presently the harbor itself became visible across the central Oahu plain, a film of morning mist hovering over it. I peered intently through my binoculars at the ships riding peacefully at anchor. One by one I counted them. Yes, the battleships were there all right, eight of them! But our last lingering hope of finding any carriers present was now gone. Not one was to be seen.

It was 0749 hours when I ordered my radioman to send the command, 'Attack!' He immediately began tapping out the pre-arranged code signal: 'TO, TO, TO...'

Leading the whole group, Lieutenant Commander Murata's torpedo bombers headed downward to launch their torpedoes, while Lieutenant Commander Itayay's fighters raced forward to sweep enemy fighters from the air. Takahashi's dive-bomber group had climbed for altitude and was out of sight. My bombers, meanwhile, made a circuit toward Barbers Point to keep pace with the attack schedule. No enemy fighters were in the air, nor were there any gun flashes from the ground.

The effectiveness of our attack was now certain, and a message, 'Surprise attack successful!' was accordingly sent to Akagi (Flagship of the Japanese attack fleet) at 0753 hours. The message was received by the carrier and duly relayed to the homeland.

The attack was opened with the first bomb falling on Wheeler Field, followed shortly by dive-bombing attacks upon Hickam Field and the bases at Ford Island. Fearful that smoke from these attacks might obscure his targets, Lieutenant Commander Murata cut short his group's approach toward the battleships anchored east of Ford Island and released torpedoes. A series of white waterspouts soon rose in the harbor.

Lieutenant Commander Itaya's fighters, meanwhile, had full command of the air over

More Japanese Planes

Plane leaving Japanese Carrier.

Sinking Arizona.

fcbot.com

Have YouMet Don?Come By and Say Hello!

14254 S Padre Island Dr • 361-949-9310

Don HerrickVice President

Santa at Schlitterbahn

Santa Claus appeared at Schlitterbahn last weeked to receive the Christmas wishes of good boys, girls, and Moon doggies. Santa will be at Schlitterbahn's weekend Dive-In

Movies trhough Christmas. Pets are welcome.



Party Trays for a CrowdBy Chef Vita Jarrin

Island Moon on a Spoon

DIVE-IN THEATRELOGGERHEAD

All Shows Start at 7pm

Tickets - $5 for Kids/Seniors - $7 for Adults

A Christmas StoryFriday, Dec 7

Planes, Trainsand AutomobilesSaturday, Dec 8

It’s a WonderfulLifeFriday, Dec 14

Muppet Christmas CarolSaturday, Dec 15

Movies Under the Stars, Coming Soon!

For full schedule, visit: http://loggerheaddive-in.com

14353 Commodore Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418Call for more info: 361-589-4220

Sign up by Dec. 31 for no initiation fees!

Call About Membership!361-589-4220

Ahhh, December has arrived and how lucky we are to still enjoy sunny, 78-degree weather on many days. A Chicago native, this is truly paradise for me. However, it does mess with my mind a bit around Christmas time. I’m used to snow and 30 degree weather to catapult me into the holiday season, but this weather feels more like spring to me. Therefore, I rely on Hallmark Christmas movies (as some of you know) and lots recipe research to get in the mood. But I’m also realistic with time constraints.

As we begin to embrace the holiday festivities, we often give in to buying prepared foods in order to avoid the shopping and preparation involved. I mean if you’re anything like me, you’re

still struggling to put up decorations. Before you know it, it will be time to take it all down. BaaaahhHumbugggg… Why am I sharing this you ask? Because we all have very busy lives and in most cases we choose to take shortcuts in order to get through.

With that said… I find planning, shopping and prepping, very therapeutic. So on a positive note, if you want to host a party, it doesn’t have to be all work, cook, clean! It can be a fun project with fantastic results. So this article is letting you off the hook. No cooking. But you still want to present something that took a little thought and little time, to show you care.

A charcuterie board to me is personal. It is a board filled with personally picked cheese choices, cured sausage meats, imported nuts, jams--maybe if you’re adventurous you’ll bake bread sticks. The other option is to buy some delicious, rustic bread and cut it into various shaped slices, wedges etc., and bake them for a crispy crostino, to be topped of with the goodies on the tray.

To add more of your own personal touch, you can buy goat cheese, or cream cheese and soften it enough to roll it into a ball and then over chopped herbs, nuts, cranberries, etc. The ideas are endless. But it’s fun and adds your own touch, making your board a memorable one. I always love to add the jams, dry fruit , like dates, and fresh fruit, such as grapes, and various nuts, such as shelled almonds, pistachios, pecans, etc. so that you have a contrast with salty and sweet. Speaking of contrast, for some salty, you can buy mixed pitted olives for a tangy bite add cornichons; piquillo peppers will add a spicy bite. The variety will certainly make your guests enjoy your platter even more.

My Must Have Board Ingredients:

Wine flavored salami

Peppered salami

Thinly sliced prosciutto

Thinly sliced mortadella

Thinly sliced spicy capicola

Thinly sliced coppa

All available through Boars Head at HEB

Various Cheese cut into cubes, slices, spreads. Options below.

Herbed Boursain, Goat or cream cheese made with herbs and various nuts

Aged cheddar both white and yellow

Asiago, Havarti, Brick, Provolone, Muenster, Bleu Cheese, Rounds of brie, fresh mozzarella cheese etc.

Variety of Olives such as Kalamata, Cerignola, Nicoise, Salt cured dry black olives and I do love plain O ripe olives

Breads, make bread sticks from dough you can buy, cut slices of baguettes, season and bake for toasty, crisp bites.

Jams, should be seasonal if possible but you can mix it up. Cranberry, raspberry, peach, etc.

Pickles, cornichons, pickled peppers

Nuts… you can buy shelled nuts and dried fruits…

Figure out how many people you are serving and if you are serving other foods. That will dictate how much of each item to buy. Each person will probably have 1 to 2 ounces of each item. Therefore, if you have 16 people to feed, you will need 1 to 2 lbs. of each item on that board. You can always refill items through the night for the late arrivals.

To create your board, don’t be afraid to grab a piece of paper and draw out your board. Get inspired from sites such as Pinterest, and then start to create. You can choose a wooden cutting board, a ceramic platter, or even a large mirror as your base. If you want to serve them elevated, use a sturdy base to elevate your plate scape.

Tip of the week:

The great part about leftovers, is you can munch on them for days. As long as you seal each item separately so the flavors don’t inter mingle, cured cheeses and charcuterie last quite a few days, mainly those that are cured. That also works with the nuts, and dried fruits. Fresh fruits, not as long. But I’m thinking your tray will be gone by the end of the night ;)

The important thing is to Have Fun! Try New Things! Happy Eats… Enjoy!


SPORTS

Larry Bird-Basketball PlayerBy Dotson Lewis

By Andy Purvis Special to the Island Moon

Thunder Road

Dotson’s Note: I first saw Larry Bird play in the 1979 Final Four. Although his team lost to Michigan State in the final game, I thought he was the best player on the floor. Magic Johnson was voted the MVP. Thanks to writer Teddy Mitrosilis and NBA player and coach Doc Rivers for many of the facts contained in report. Also thanks to Southwest Conference’s Bill Morgan for the photos.

A Small Forward And Power Forward During His NBA Career

Signing with the Celtics for a then-record $650,000 a year, Larry Bird justified his salary right out of the gate, averaging 21.3 points per game and claiming Rookie of the Year honors for the 1979-80 NBA season. Bird also led the Celtics in rebounding, with an average of 10.4 per game, as well as in steals and minutes played.FO

Prior to Bird's second year, the Celtics acquired center Robert Parrish from the Golden State Warriors and drafted Kevin McHale. Those three players would form a legendary frontline, perhaps the greatest in NBA history. That season, the Celtics posted a 61-21 record and defeated the Houston Rockets to take the first NBA championship of Bird's career.

Along with Magic Johnson, who also entered the NBA in 1979 with the Los Angeles Lakers, Larry Bird was a key figure in revitalizing the league in the 1980s. The Celtics and Lakers dominated, with one team or the other, or both, appearing in every NBA championship throughout the decade. Bird was already known after two years in the league for consistent, clutch scoring and tenacious defense, which seemed especially uncanny as he was not particularly fast on his feet; instead, Bird developed a reputation for not merely responding to his opponents' moves, but anticipating how they would unfold ahead of time. His concentration and composure were unrivaled as well, and he established himself as one of the most unshakable and driven players in the NBA.

The Celtics reached the playoffs in every one of Larry Bird's 13 seasons, although he missed most of the 1988-89 season due to injury, and added titles in 1984 and 1986. He made the All-Star team 12 times and was named the All-Star Game Most Valuable Player in 1982. For three consecutive years, from 1984 to 1986, Bird was named the NBA's MVP, and in 1990, he hit a milestone by reaching 20,000 career points. However, by then his formerly relentless attack on the court had been slowed by a bad back.

Olympic Games

The summer of 1992 marked the first time the United States sent professional athletes to the Olympic Games. Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan and other NBA stars formed the American men's basketball team, which would become known as the "Dream Team." Bird and his teammates easily won the Olympic gold medal for the United States, and just a few weeks later, Bird announced his retirement as a player. He finished his career with sterling averages of 24.6 points and 10 rebounds per game.

Head Coach of the Indiana Pacers

Larry Bird began the next chapter of his life as a front-office special assistant for the Celtics, a post he held for five years. In 1997 Bird accepted the head coach position with the Indiana Pacers, a move that returned him to his home state. Despite no previous coaching experience, he led the Pacers to a 58-24 record — the franchise's best at the time — in the 1997-98 season and was named the NBA Coach of the Year. After leading the Pacers to the NBA Finals in 2000, he stepped down as head coach. Bird returned to the Pacers in 2003 as president of basketball operations. At the end of the 2011-12 season, he was named NBA Executive of the Year, making him the only person to be named the NBA's MVP, Coach of the Year and Executive of the Year. Although he announced his departure around that time, he reclaimed his post as team president in the summer of 2013.

Legacy

Larry Bird is universally regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. Underscoring his place in the game's history, he was named one of the NBA's Top 50 players in 1996, and inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1998. In 1999, he was listed at No. 30 on ESPN SportsCentury's Top 50 athletes of the 20th century, with only five other basketball players ranked higher.

Wife and Children

Bird has been married to Dinah Mattingly since 1989. The two adopted a son and daughter, Conner and Mariah. He was briefly married to

first wife Janet Condra from 1975-76 and has a biological daughter with her named Corrie.

Early Years

Larry Bird was born on December 7, 1956, in West Baden Springs, Indiana, and raised in the nearby town of French Lick, where he excelled at basketball at an early age. Bird attended Springs Valley High School in French Lick and was a key component of the school's basketball team, becoming its all-time leading scorer by the time he graduated in 1974.

Bird's basketball prowess earned him an athletic scholarship to Indiana University, where he was to play for legendary coach Bob Knight. However, the sharpshooting forward felt some trepidation about the size of the Hoosier campus and withdrew from school, enrolling at Indiana State the next year.

Following his junior year, Bird was selected with the sixth overall pick in the NBA draft by the Boston Celtics. He chose to return to Indiana State for one more year, and led the Sycamores to the NCAA championship game against the Michigan State Spartans, a team led by another future NBA superstar, Ervin "Magic" Johnson. It was the first time the two star players would face each other in a head-to-head battle, and it began a friendship and rivalry that would span both players' careers. Johnson and the Spartans triumphed, but Larry Bird left Indiana State that year with the USBWA College Player of the Year Award, the Naismith Award and the Wooden Award. At the time, he was also the fifth-highest scorer in NCAA history.

Trash Talker Supreme

On March 12, 1985, Larry Bird had one of the best performances of his career, dropping 60 points on the Atlanta Hawks.

A great story has also lived on from that game. When Bird started rolling, hitting shot after shot, he began to call what he was going to do — how he was going to score, who he was going to score against and so on.

According to legend, coming down the court on his last shot of the game he said "in the trainer’s lap — who wants it?" Meaning, he was about to hit a deep 3-pointer in some poor soul’s face. "Then I think Reggie Brown, I’m not sure who it was, ran out after him," Doc Rivers, playing on that Hawks team, recalled about that night. "He shot this high rainbow, it goes in. Reggie bumps into him and accidentally knocks him on our trainer’s lap. So it was exactly what he said. It was an accident, but it was almost fate. They show a shot of our bench — Cliff Livingston and Eddie Johnson are standing up giving each other high fives."

Dotson’s Other Note: The foregoing “Trash Talker Supreme” is just one of the many great trash talking stories that have been credited to Bird, who is remembered as one of the most cold-hearted individuals to ever play in the NBA. Needless to say he was not popular with his opponents. His trash talking is a significant part of what makes him one of the sports best characters. Also it is my opinion in his prime, he was the best pure shooter that has ever played in the NBA. If you disagree, you need to have factual proof…I have it for Larry Bird.

-30- Have Fun

Sports Talk Special to The Island Moon

You’d probably never guess his profession if you didn’t read the newspapers. He doesn’t look like a guy you’d ever call “Smokey,” “Hot Rod,” “Tiny,” “Speedy” or “Fireball.” He looked more like a David or a Gene or the guy who cuts your hair down at the barbershop.

This guy became more important to auto racing than lug nuts. He spent his best years pushing down and turning left and going around in circles. This fellow owned the stare of a gunfighter and driving at 200 mph was where he felt normal. He also had a voice as smooth as honey, and he was surrounded by mechanics that were so good they could make a turtle run.

The man spent 27 years climbing in and out of car windows and he doesn’t have a mark on him. He doesn’t walk with a limp, has all his teeth and can eat corn on the cob and steak. He also has all his marbles. This guy earned more money each race than Bonnie and Clyde’s getaway driver. The only guys who have made more money in stock car racing are Richard Petty and Henry Ford. Maybe he’s not the Babe Ruth of auto racing like Petty; he’s more like Joe DiMaggio. He drives gracefully, without much effort or flash. I’m sure he could do this without using both hands. In fact, I heard he even smoked during the race. It’s funny; it seems like all the really good race car drivers come from the Carolinas. They all own a dog and they carry wrenches in their pockets. They have a fuel pump instead of a heart, dirt under their fingernails, and they always keep a sharp eye out in their rear view mirror for revenue agents. In 1957, a song sang by Robert Mitchum hit the charts. It was called “Thunder Road.” The main lyric went like this: “And there was thunder, thunder over Thunder Road, Thunder was his engine and white lightning was his load.” Although there is no proof that Pearson ever ran white lightning, there was defiantly thunder under his hood. Maybe Pearson wasn’t really born, but instead assembled and modified.

Started on dirt tracks

David Gene Pearson was born December 22, 1934, in Whitney, near Spartanburg, South

Carolina. As a kid, he always had a fascination about stock cars and would climb a tree at the local Spartanburg Track to watch the races. “I decided right then that was what I wanted to do with my life,” said Pearson. David also began to work with his brother in a car body repair shop and used the money to purchase a Ford coach. Pearson modified the car into a street rod and proceeded to jump ditches and even rolled it over on occasion. His mother feared for his life and paid him to sell the car. Pearson took that money and purchased another car. By 1952, the Spartanburg racing community began to notice Pearson as he raced several dirt tracks and won money in an outlaw class race.

On to NASCAR

By 1959, David had become the track champion at Greenville-Pickens Speedway. Pearson joined the NASCAR Grand National Series during the 1960 season. David’s first start was the Daytona 500 qualifying race and he finished 17th. He started in a total of 22 events that season, in a self-owned car, and finished 23rd in points. Pearson was voted the 1960 NASCAR Rookie of the Year. His year had been highlighted by three races. David finished second at Gamecock Speedway in Sumter, South Carolina. He finished in fourth place at Hickory Motor Speedway and in fifth place at his hometown track located at Piedmont Interstate Fairgrounds in Spartanburg.

David Pearson would spend the next 26 years climbing in and out of car windows from all different makes of cars, while running with the best the sport had to offer and winning his share of races.

David Pearson started racing for the Wood Brothers in 1972. He received the nickname the “Silver Fox” not so much for the color of his hair, which was now gray, but for his patience and the ability to lie in wait as others charged to the front of the pack and used up their cars. Then, out of nowhere, he would sprint to the front on the backstretch of the final lap to take the lead and the checkered flag for the win. Pearson’s game plan was always the same, to never try and lead each lap. “You will ruin your motor,” said David. He tried to make his run near the end of the race when about half the cars had already knocked themselves out.

Andy Purvis is a local author and radio personality. Please visit www.purvisbooks.com for all the latest info on his books or to listen to the new radio podcast. Andy’s books are available online and can be found in the local Barnes & Noble bookstore. Andy can be contacted at [email protected]. Also listen to sports talk radio on Dennis & Andy’s Q & A Session from 6-8 PM on Sportsradiocc.com 1230 AM, 96.1 FM and 103.3 FM. The home of the Houston Astros.

David Pearson

Andy Holds a Book SigningSaturday, December 8

Moon columnist Andy Purvis will have a signing for his book on Saturday, December 8, at Small Planet Restaurant on Saratoga. He will be signing my newest book form 11-3 p.m. All books sale for $23 except the photo album which can be purchased at $18 for

soft cover or $29 for hard cover. “If you are looking for something for the sports fan in your family, I have just the thing. There will be six different books I have written with all the great athletes, coaches and

broadcasters I have had a chance to meet. These are my stories about them. This is my way of keeping their memories alive,” Andy said.

Bird at Indiana State.

Bird and Magic Johnson.

Bird as a Coach.

Larry Bird


The Traveling Moon Gets Around

• 4 LARGE bedrooms

• Beautiful kitchen• 2,687 sf• Come see!15113 Dasmarinas $384,241


and follow us on Facebook: The Island Moon Newspaper

On our way to spend Thanksgiving with Frostbite Betty, we stopped in Bemidji, MN to pose for a picture with Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Left to right, Craig, April,

Helen and Edward Mlady

Alice and Al Decker took the Moon to Laughlin, Nevada

Elly and Audrey Denton took the Moon to Grand Lake, Colorado over Thanksgiving Break.

Padre Island resident Erin Anderson took the Island Moon to Issaquah Washington while visiting family and friends for Turkey Day.


COLDWELL BANKER ISLAND ESCAPES 14945 S. Padre Island Dr., Corpus Chris�, TX 78418

(361) 949‐7077 or (800) 580‐7077 www.cbir.com ISLAND ESCAPES

13826 Mizzen Still time to cus-tomize this beautiful new 3/2/3 home by Stima & Steve. Stucco/Stone exterior, pool size backyard. $492,500 Call Cindy 361-549-5557

15613 Finistere Beautiful new home by Sima & Steve. 4 bed-room, 3 full bath. Tile wood plank floors, laundry/mudroom. Outdoor kitchen, $319,900. Call Cindy361-549-5557.

14721 Whitecap #371 Amaz-ing location! This is a 2 bedroom 2 bath condo in the Beach club complex. Down the street from the beach. Call Charlie 361-443-2499 or Randy 361-765-9914

13806 Captain Kidd Waterview in front! Great location with pool and spa/hot tub. Spacious 4 bed-rooms, 2.5 baths with kitchen island. $299,900 Call Randy 765-9914 or Charlie 443-2499

15949 El Soccorro Loop.Tropical retreat with pool and well. 1-story open plan, tile floors . 3/2/2. Large master suite. $254,900. Call Pam Morgan361-215-8116.

809 Saint Benedict Great location in Flour Bluff! 3 bedrooms, 2 baths with 1,508 sq. ft. of living area. Close to parks, FBISD, and NAS. Call Charlie 443-2499 or Randy765-9914 or Terry 549-7703

14721 Whitecap #313 Downthe street from the beach. This is a great Beach Club unit. 1 bedroom, 1 bath, fully furnished. Great investment $135,000. Call Char-lie 443-2499 or Randy 765-9914

Looking for Long Term Rental Property? Below are some of our available rentals:

Looking for Professional Long Term Property Management Services? Our services include: Tenant Qualifying Collec�ons of Rents

Coordina�ng Repairs & Maintenance Professional Itemized Monthly Statements

Marke�ng/Adver�sing

Superior Service, Outstanding Reputa�on since 1999

14945 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Chris�, TX 78418

(361) 949‐2131 (877) 269‐2131

www.rentpadreisland.com

14217 Almeria Waterfront Island Home! Spacious 4 bedrooms 3.5 baths with cooks kitchen, 2 boat lifts, covered patio, deck, and landscaped yards. $564,900 Call Charlie 443-2499 or Randy 765-9914

15111 Dory Dr. Great townhome. 3 bedroom, 3 full bath, with granite counter tops, open plan living. Per-fect Island get-a-way or investment property $199,900. Call Terry 549-7703 or Charlie 443-2499

Great lot on Laguna Shores. 3lots sold as a package. 150x150 sq ft. Utilities available at frontage. Across the street from the Laguna Madre. $92,500 Call Cheryl 361-563-0444.

15830 Cozumel Beautiful new home in Coquina Bay with 4 bed-rooms, 3 bathrooms, laundry/mud room. Outdoor kitchen and pool size lot. $339,500. Call Cindy361-549-5557.

Looking for Vaca�on Rental Services you can trust? Call Padre Escapes, Padre Island’s Premier Vaca�on Rental Company at 361‐949‐0430 Visit us online at www.padreescapes.com email at vaca�[email protected]

13933 Suntan New home by R.T. Bryant. 4 bedroom 3 full baths, custom built ins, 2,062 sq. f t . Poo l s i zed backyard . $319,900. Call Terry 549-7703

14813 Leeward #604 Beautiful views! Canal front 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage. 2,220 sq. ft. with 2 living areas, boat lift, and large patio. $475,000. Charlie 443-2499 or Randy 765-9914

15314 Bonasse Court Rare find- 2 bedroom, 2.5 bath end unit with deeded side yard, 2 car garage & approx. 50’ of bulkhead. $220,000. Call Cindy Molnar 549-5557.

Waterfront condo. Deeded boat slip, fully furnished and ready for move. Long or short term rentals. $189,900. Call Cindy Molnar 549-5557 for details.

14130 La Banquilla $364,900.Beautiful new build with great coastal details, large kitchen and more. 4 bedrooms 3 baths, 3 car garage built by Daniel Homes. Call Charlie 361-443-2499

15102 Leeward #801 Beautiful Beach Haven Townhome 3/2.5, 2 car garage. Fully furnished ready for short or long term rentals. $224,000. Charlie 361-443-2499 or Randy 361-765-9914.

Portofino #407 4th floor corner unit with 3 bed., 2 baths; 1,406 sq. ft. of living space. Wonderful beachfront complex, great pool. $206,000. Cheryl 563-0444.

Condos, Condos, CondosCheck Out these Condos & Townhomes available in Wonderful

Complexes allowing Short Term Rentals!

Gulfstream #604 Updated north side unit. Superior location, long veranda, panorama view of the Island. Off site management al-lowed. Call Dorothy 361-563-8486

441 Marina Dr. Island Moorings Canal Home. Beautiful architec-tural features, 17’ ceilings. Wind-storm windows, and new sheet-rock. Call Carrie 361-949-5200.

14910 Leeward #404 Beautiful ocean view townhome. Gated 3 story fully furnished 4/3/3. Enjoy the resort style pool & grounds. Just a block from the beach. Move-in ready! Call Kellye 361-522-0292

13929 Man O War Charming 3 bedrooms, 2 baths. Split bedrooms, 3 tiered deck and boat lift. Fire-place. Easy care front yard. Make an appointment today. Call Cheryl 361-563-0444.

14434 E Cabana Unit #219 Beautiful 2 bedroom 2 bath condo with boat slip on a canal. Easy ICW access for great fishing. $184,900Call Charlie 443-2499 or Terry 549-7703

Beautiful 3-2-2 in Coquina Bay on the water. Split bedrooms, one level easy floorplan. Large covered patio. Boat lift & much more. For appointment call Cheryl 361-563-0444.

Spinnaker Condo

14434 E. Cabana Unit #219

2/2 $184,900

Complex is on canal with boat

slip!

Sale Pending

Beach ClubCondos

Close to Beach Pool, hot tub, fitness

center

#313 1/1 $135,000 #371 2/2 $169,000 #341 2/2 $158,900 #356 2/2 $158,900

Charlie 443-2499

Terry 549-7703

Randy 765-9914

Coastal Townhome beautifully decorated includes all furniture, appliances, dishes, linens AND MORE! Roomy 3/2.5/2 plus loft. $213,000 Call Phyllis 361-549-4905

13633 Catamaran. Waterfront, 1-story stucco, soaring ceilings, 3/2/2 split, open plan. Tropical landscape. $344,900. Call Pam Morgan 361-215-8116

15002 Leeward #5202 2/2 $1,300

15849 Punta Espada 3/2/2 $2,200

1121 Preston A & B 2/1 1,250 per unit (Fully furnished)

14834 Cobo De Bara 3/2/2 $2,500

13806 Captain Kidd 4/2.5 $2,300

14910 Leeward #302 3/3.5 $2,500

15521 Cruiser B 2/2 $1,800 (Fully furnished)

15949 Cu�ysark 3/2/2 $2,800

(Fully furnished)

13958 Fortuna Bay #1 2/2 $1,100 (Fully furnished)

13953 Fortuna Bay #3 2/2 $1,500 (Fully furnished)

Call today to view!

13825 Captains Row 4 bed-room, 3.5 bath waterfront home with 2 living areas, office, pool and 2 boat lifts in Commodores Pointe. $830,000. Call Cindy Molnar 549-5557 to preview.

December 6, 2018 Island Moon A11


Quarter Page:3 (5.75 inch) column by 10.5 inch ad

Color charge $200 extra per run$324.45($10.30 per column inch)

$524.45 with color Second run would be

$162.23 (b/w)$362.23 (color)

13 Week ContractColor Charge $110 extra per run$242.55 ($7.70 per column inch)

$352.55 with color

MENTION THIS AD AND GET A FREE WINDSHIELD

WITH PURCHASE OF A NEW 2019 GOLF CAR

a SEVERAL COLORS TO CHOOSE FROMa QUANTITIES ARE LIMITEDa CALL FOR MORE INFORMATIONa COME IN AND TEST DRIVE ONE TODAY

5713 Leopard Street Corpus Christi, TX 78408

361.884.5800 • 888. 546.3520www.corpuschristigolfcars.com

NEW 2019 EZGO FREEDOM TXT

GAS POWERED GOLF CARS

STARTING AT $5,950

Seashore Happenings!

Congratulations to the seventh grade basketball team on their first place finish!!

Seashore Bookfair

The Scholastic Bookfair has arrived at Seashore Learning Center. Everyone from the community is welcome to shop. You can find gifts for your friends and family of

all ages. Shopping with Santa will be Thursday, December 6 from 5:00-6:30 and on Friday students may shop while they enjoy Donuts with Mom & Dad from 7:30-9:00.

You can also shop online at http://bookfairs.scholastic.com/homepage/seashorelrngctr. Head on over and support SLC while you shop for quality gifts for your loved ones.

The Seashore Island schools participated in the 9th Annual Christmas Tree Forest at the Art Museum of South Texas. Each school submitted a tree decorated by students in the theme of a classic children’s book. Seashore Elementary School chose “A Charlie Brown Christmas” and Seashore Middle Academy chose “The Wonderful Wizard of

Oz”. The exhibit is open through December 12.

Find the solution athttp://onlinecrosswords.net/6462

Free Printable Crossword Puzzle #1This is the Daily Crossword Puzzle #1 for Dec 4, 2018

Across1. Bird stomachs5. Acid used to stain microscopeslides10. One might be in evidence14. Carrier since 194815. Country singer Carter16. Workout reminder17. Caramel candy on a stick19. Shoe stretcher20. One-celled creatures21. Preference, so to speak23. Ukr., formerly24. Turn the other way26. New York tennis stadium27. '92 presidential candidate29. Typo list33. Mr. Bill's cry36. Coin since 200238. One in the weasel family39. Shows sorrow41. Sire's counterpart42. IQ test developer43. ''Sleep'' word starter44. Lummoxes46. May honorees47. Parodies49. Drum rattler51. D.C. baseballers, briefly53. ''Sweet'' girl of song54. Hale, for one57. Dairy delivery61. Firefighting operation63. Noisy outburst64. St. Peter's Square chant66. No more67. Actress Verdugo68. ''Dear me!''69. Thrilled70. Actor Alain71. Hotbed

Down1. Southwest sights2. Reunion attendees3. Perfecta or exacta4. Thick chunk5. More than likely6. Caribbean, e.g.7. Anti-DWI org.8. Chief of the Vedic gods9. Indian pony10. Scythe wielder11. Real-estate measure12. Sonny's '60s partner13. Platforms named fortheir shape

18. Tear down22. Beat25. Cream-coloredcheese27. Outdoor-arena event28. Plumbers' concerns30. 47, for silver: Abbr.31. Be prolific32. They may be lively orliberal33. Has title to34. Jalopy35. Rex's sleuth37. Forebodings40. Up to a certain point

45. Lizardlike48. Repelled, with ''off''50. Spin-fishing need52. Steps over a fence54. 1:62,500, e.g.55. Chrysalides56. Matzoh's lack57. Psyche parts58. Broke down59. Secluded spot60. Daredevil Knievel62. Duration65. ''I'll take that as __''

Free Daily Printable Crossword Puzzles http://www.onlinecrosswords.net/printable-daily-crosswords-1.php

1 of 1 12/4/2018, 3:29 PM

December 6, 2018 Island Moon A12

Moon Crossword

Crossword Solution on classifieds page

Going Easy On You... Knuckle-Cracker

Brain-Buster Mind-Numbing Frustration

Medium Puzzle 4,500,828,041

© Web Sudoku 2018 - www.websudoku.com

Web Sudoku - Billions of Free Sudoku Puzzles to Play Online http://nine.websudoku.com/

1 of 1 12/4/2018, 3:27 PM

Hard Puzzle 7,435,415,657



1 of 1 12/4/2018, 3:28 PM

Evil Puzzle 6,564,459,443



1 of 1 12/4/2018, 3:28 PM

Evil Puzzle 45,646



1 of 1 12/4/2018, 3:29 PM

Sudoku

Police BlotterIsland Police Calls

15400 block Seamount Cay 9 p.m. December 2 Assault

13500 block Carlos Fifth 11 p.m. December 1 Criminal mischief

15800 block SPID 7 p.m. December 1 Cruelty to animals

15800 block SPID 7 p.m. December 1 Domestic Assault

14700 block Gulf Beach 4 p.m. December 1 Public intoxication

14700 block Gulf Beach Road 3 p.m. December 1 Assault

11800 block State Highway 361 Midnight Public intoxication

14100 block Bounty Noon November 29 Theft

14900 block Dasmarinas 6 a.m. November 29 Assault

Aquarius/Cabana 11 a.m. November 28 Public intoxication

ISLAND CHIROPRACTIC

Daxton T. Krugman, D.C. 14602 Compass Street, Ste B.

(361) 949-2199www.krugmanchiropractic.com

COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATIONS

Creating Dreams for Island Homeowners

since 1987• New Homes• Remodels• Additions• Repairs• No job too big or too small

Call 774-7043 for estimate

www.billgoinhomes.com

MEDICARE PART D PLANS HAVE YOU

CONFUSED?LET ME FIND THE BEST PLAN FOR YOU BASED

ON YOUR MEDSCALL:

SCOTT CALLENDER INSURANCE(361) 548-4905

Also: paying too much for Medicare Supple. Ins.?

I can shop rates for you with the many major companies I have!

New Islander Finds Message in a Bottle

For years Michele Saathoff wanted to move to The Island. Finally, she bought her dream home and moved here. But it was in 1996 when she was forty-five miles down

Padre Island National Seashore when she found this message in a bottle on the beach.It is a seaman’s journal written on both sides of the paper and is about thirty pages

long. The pages are now flaking and their color fading and she is looking for a way to preserve them or a place to display them.

If you have an idea or can help contact us here at [email protected] and we will get the information to her.

December 6, 2018Island MoonA 13

The Great OutdoorsBy Jay Gardner

On the Rocks Backwater AdventuresBy Joey FarahFarah’s Fishing Adventures

I was online and trying to sort out my electricity provider the other day, and I was thinking that rates are going up. I was

on one of those shop-till-you-drop comparison websites (powertochoose.org) and all the rates were higher than I am currently paying. It didn’t seem like a good idea to renew, but I had no choice as my prescription (sic) was running out. I suppose the best times to renew are in the spring or fall when your usage is low. I’m not sure why I’m writing about electricity providers, it might have something to do with this low grade fever and wicked cough I’m enjoying. Tis the season.

Enough about electricity plans. Bizzy, Joel, and Brian headed out on the S/V Balance for points south on Sunday and so far they are making about a hundred miles a day, which puts them around 5 knots. That is the average speed of the Balance, even in 5-7 seas (which I’m sure they’re really enjoying out there right now, LOL! Hope you don’t get seasick Joel) This would put them in Grand Cayman about next Thursday, but they still have to fight the Loop Current going from the Gulf of Mexico into the Caribbean. The current is running a solid 3-5 knots in some areas, which will pull them to a standstill unless Bizzy get creative and manages to go around it somehow. At least they are in 80 degree water in the middle of the gulf right now, and I will take that over what we have going on. We wish them good luck on their adventures, and hopefully they will take time to send me a pic or two that I can share with you loyal readers along their way.

Well, I hope everyone is enjoying this 59 degree weather. Frankly, and I’m not going to mince words about this, but I’m tired of it already. Seems I remember some much milder winters in years past. Then again, this Saturday last year it snowed, so what do I know? If it snows again this year I will make it a point to get out in the neighborhood and show the kids how to properly build a snowman. You roll a snowball till it gets big, not just pack it. And also you have to plan on where you’re rolling your snowballs, as you don’t want the base on the other side of the yard as the mid-section. Maybe I should write a book? Nah.

This evening at ISAC should be a fun meeting. Just today, the City Council adopted a resolution to apply for FEMA funds to repair Packery Channel. I had asked the question back at ISAC in April when I first came back on the committee, and the city reps assured us that they had been talking to FEMA and everything was “OK”. Well, that was 8 months ago, and it actually just is getting started. I’m not sure why the delay in formally applying for the funds, I’m hoping that there was some red tape that had to be cut first or some hoops to jump through,

because a two page application and a simple ordinance shouldn’t have taken that long. Hopefully I’ll be printing a retraction in my article next week that the powers-that-be have this all planned out and have all along.

Now is a great time to get that fishing gear ready for the spring and better times to come. I know a few of us have a pile of reels that need cleaning a some rods that are missing guides that need fixing. My tackle boxes look like they’ve been in a rock tumbler for about a week, and the lures I’ve been using the most will give anyone tetanus just walking by. Then again, I came across my list of winter time projects from last year, and well, I didn’t say which winter I was going to get them done in.

Well folks, I hope y’all have great Christmas parties planned, and make sure to drive safe. Drop me a line at [email protected] and I’ll see you next week On the Rocks.


CHRISTMAS SPIRIT!

This is the time of year many look back and take a favorable path for the next year. Give thanks for family, friends, and being blessed to live so close to our MOTHER OCEAN. This weekend is a great opportunity to get in the spirit with our PADRE ISLAND BOAT PARADE PARTY! MARKER 37 MARINA HAS A FREsH NEW LOOK, and is having an AWSOME Christmas party complete with music, free parades viewing, bar, AND SANTA!! Fishing

this week has been quite good. The lower water temperatures are pushing gamefish together in and close to deeper areas. The first key is to find out where the smallest of creatures are buried in the mud. I’ve been watching the sea gulls sit directly over the buried shrimp, and that is where the trout have been, in 5ft of water. The open areas of the King Ranch are holding good numbers of trout, many of these are too small to keep. During the major feeding times you can scratch out an easy trout limit in soft plastics. During the slowest times you can still catch a lot of trout and have a great time. The edge of the ICW is full of fish for anglers using live shrimp along the edge. Fish each location 20 min and move. Calm mornings the action on soft plastics has been great with my favorite baits being those smaller DOA 3&4” jerk baits and paddle tails. MARKER 37 just got in my favorite colors yesterday, stop by and check them out this weekend at the parade.

Down south I’ve been hammering the black drum and redfish on live shrimp. Rock formations are holding them tight because of the availability of small rock crabs. Anchor up and use a deep drop under a popping cork. Do not pop the cork much at all let it sit!! Too much noise will spoon every fish off the rocks. Trophy wade fishing is starting to really get good right now with those big trout regulating their body temperature by moving in and out of the shallow waters when the sun warms the sand. Try a DOA shallow water BAIT BUSTER this spring it’s a slow moving bait like a CORKY but much easier to use and it won’t get hung up on rocks. For those of us that are trying to get some shopping done before Christmas Eve let me give you a good list for that hard to shop for outdoorsman. ISLAND FITNESS gym membership! Great place wonderful people and clean. If you start working out a little then you feel more energized and will get off that sofa a bit more! Walk into MARKER 37 and find a shop stacked full of fishing stuff! WIND AND WAVE WATER SPORTS!! There are so many cool and unique things there for surfing fishing beach hanging and anything under the sun. Hammocks chairs and stylish clothing that you won’t find anywhere else, from around the world! I just picked up a AWSOME fillet knife made from stainless steel off of the TWIN TOWERS! FIBER TEX AND STIFFY POLES is another place you can get some cool stuff that you can’t find anywhere else. Flounder lights, anchor poles, fishing rods, and so many cool inventions and extras you won’t have to go any where else for Christmas gifts. Every fishermen will do a back flip off the sofa if they find a new WATERLOO ROD under the tree. The Waterloo ship ships out in one day! They also have custom lure boxes with the best and most popular lures for saltwater fishing. So if you don’t know what to pick out you can still get the right lures! And there is always of course the opportunity to get them a guided fishing trip certificate to learn and catch with me in the Lagoon and Baffin. I promise to torture them to your liking. Watching the eyes of our loved ones light up with excitement and tears because they know you were thinking of them is priceless. Although we put so much attention on the $$ think about some of the simplest things in life and hugs and kisses. Merry Christmas let’s get some CHRISTMAS SPIRIT!

Joe Rodgers pulled this nice trout along with the rest of his limit from the deep

rocks in the mouth of Baffin Bay this week.

Jumbo redfish from the mouth of Baffin Bay! Live

shrimp on the bottom along gravel beds close to

rocks.

Monster FLOUNDER!! Me and my friend CAPT ALEX MURPHY, brought two boats full of anglers to the dock with a big load

of trout,reds, and flounder this week.

South Texas College to partner with TPWD for Target Range Program Grant

South Texas College (STC) is partnering with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) to construct an indoor target range at the College’s new Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence in Pharr, TX.

During a press conference held Nov. 29 at the Texas State Capitol, South Texas College was awarded $307, 219 for the planning phase of a 13,300 square foot indoor 12-lane target range through TPWD’s Target Range Grant Program.

Upon completion of the planning phase and environmental compliance grant requirements, South Texas College is eligible to receive a grant for the construction of the range in the amount of $2,447,382, totaling to $2,754,601 in grant funds. This grant funding is provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, supported by sportsmen’s dollars derived from the sale of hunting licenses and by federal excise taxes on sporting arms and ammunition as authorized by the Pittman-Robertson Act.

South Texas College also plans to contribute $1,280,775 toward this project. The total combined funds for this project amount to $4,035,376.

The target range will be open to the public for firearms safety training, practice shooting, and skills development. In addition to the target range, the College will also provide educational opportunities, including face-to-face Hunter Education courses approved by TPWD and led by certified Texas Hunter Education instructors.

TPWD’s Target Range Grant Program Coordinator Renan Zambrano explains why the Target Range Program is important.

“The goal of the program is to create public access for recreational shooting opportunities and to enhance educational resources by promoting firearm and hunting safety,” said Zambrano. “We accomplish this by partnering on target range stewardship projects with nonprofit, private, and civic organizations with common objectives for providing safe, responsible and ethical firearm education and target range facilities for the general welfare of the community. We believe this project in particular is uniquely suited to serve the needs across several Rio Grande Valley communities.”

The College’s Law Enforcement Academy and the College Department of Public Safety will

also benefit from access to this state-of-the art target range facility.

South Texas College’s Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence center is dedicated to all local, state, and federal law enforcement, public safety, and fire science professionals.

South Texas College Chairman of the Board of Trustees Paul Rodriguez says this unique collaboration will benefit the region.

“Our board of trustees is pleased to pursue the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Target Range Program as it aligns extremely well with the type of training and educational programs we envisioned for our Regional Center for Public Safety Excellence,” said Rodriguez. “The prospect of having this type of facility for the general public as well as law enforcement agencies is ideal.”

The college will be seeking additional funds to expand the target range to the law enforcement community in the future; STC President, Dr. Shirley A. Reed, says access to the covered target range will assist law enforcement professionals in receiving first-rate firearm training.

“South Texas College is excited to partner with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. This target range will not only provide hunter education and general public education opportunities, but will also lay the groundwork for an expanded facility to provide state-of-the-art firearms training and qualification opportunities for our many law enforcement and public safety partners.”

Texas Sen. Juan “Chuy” Hinojosa, D-McAllen stated the significance of the Target Range Grant Program during the press conference in Austin.

“I appreciate Texas Parks and Wildlife for working with our local, state, and federal partners to make this investment possible. This grant would not have been awarded without the dedication, cooperation, and commitment from all those involved,” said Hinojosa. “The educational and training opportunities provided for the public and law enforcement will further enhance the public safety of our region.”

The estimated completion date for the target range is February 2021.

Engine Cutoff Switch Requirement

and 5-Year Vessel Documentation

Included in Passage of Coast Guard

Authorization ActEach year Congress authorizes the budget and

overall spending level for the U.S. Coast Guard, which can have a direct effect on recreational boaters.

This week’s passage of the Frank Lobiondo Coast Guard Authorization of Act of 2018, offers new safety and consumer-friendly benefits for boaters, anglers and sailors.

Included in the reauthorization is a provision requiring “manufacturers, distributors and dealers” to install engine cutoff switches on new boats “less than 26 feet overall in length and capable of developing 115 pounds or more of static thrust.” The engine cutoff switch provision “includes, but is not limited to, inboard engines, outboard motors and sterndrive engines.” Switches also need to meet American Boat and Yacht Council Standards.

For those who document their vessel with the U.S. Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center, the length of time the certificate will be valid increases from one to five years, easing a boater’s paperwork burden.

TPWD Seeks Public Input on 2019 Red

Snapper SeasonWednesday, Dec.12

at TAMUCCThe Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s

(TPWD) Coastal Fisheries Division is holding a public meeting in the Coastal Bend to seek public input on possible dates for 2019 private recreational red snapper season in federal waters.

The local meeting will be Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018 6:30 p.m. Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi Natural Resources Building, Room 1003, 6300 Ocean Drive.

There will be multiple options presented for the 2019 federal red snapper season that combine fishing days in the spring and summer. Options include a traditional continuous summer season, seasons with different summer start dates and seasons that split fishing days between the spring and summer. TPWD Coastal Fisheries staff will also present via a Facebook live webinar on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Facebook page on Friday, Dec. 14 at noon for those who cannot attend a meeting in person.

The public will be able to make official comments online through the TPWD website comment portal from Dec. 11, 2018 to Jan. 4, 2019.

Under an agreement between TPWD and the National Marine Fisheries Service that was signed in April 2018, TPWD can establish the opening and closing of the red snapper fishery in federal waters off the Texas coast for private recreational anglers fishing from their own vessels in 2019. The federally permitted for-hire sector, which allows recreational anglers to fish from charter boats or headboats, will remain in its current management structure set by the federal government under the agreement for 2019.

Two other meetings will be held along the Texas Gulf Coast, one in Texas City on Tuesday, Dec. 11, 6:30 p.m. at Doyle Convention Center 2010 5th Ave North, Texas City and another on Thursday, Dec. 13, at 6:30 p.m. at the Port Isabel Event and Cultural Center 309 E Railroad Avenue Port Isabel.

Snowman’s playground

Recognition of the service and sacrifice of our veterans, and their families,

is especially important during the traditional holiday season. With this sentiment in mind, I would like to share information about the Wreaths Across America program, an annual tradition that serves to honor and remember men and women of the armed forces who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country. Founded in 1992, the Wreaths Across America program was first initiated by a donation from the Harrington, Maine-based Worcester Wreath Company of 5,000 holiday wreaths to be placed on the headstones of our nation’s fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery. Wreaths Across America has grown from a local, community based outreach program to national nonprofit organization with a mission dedicated to remember, honor and teach by celebrating the lives of fallen armed service men and women.

Today, Wreaths Across America has grown to include state and federal cemeteries across the country as well as 24 veteran’s cemeteries located on foreign soil. The organization works with local partners and trucking companies to carry out its mission. During previous events trucking companies have helped deliver over 300 loads of wreaths to over 1,000 sites across the country. In our area, both the Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery and Seaside Memorial Park received wreaths for veterans’ headstones.

In 2008, the annual tradition received an official designation from the United States Congress, which proclaimed that one Saturday each December be known as National Wreaths Across America Day. This important event


By Todd Hunter, District 32

STATEHonoring Veterans Through Wreaths

Across Americais to be held on Saturday, December 15. It is important to remember and celebrate the lives of our fallen soldiers.

An important component of the Wreaths Across America program is to teach younger generations the value of our country’s freedoms and the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by our men and women in uniform in the name of protecting those freedoms. As a way to fulfill this mission, the convoy carrying wreaths from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery each year makes a point to stop at dozens of schools along the way to share its mission with students of all ages. In addition, Wreaths Across America offers many downloadable teaching materials.

There are several ways for those looking to get involved with Wreaths Across America during this year’s event, including sponsoring a wreath or volunteering at local wreath-laying event. In addition to its wreath-laying program, the organization also has other initiatives to pay homage to veterans throughout the year. To learn more visit http://www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/.

If you would like to review more about the legislature, please visit The Texas Legislature Online. If you have questions regarding any of the information mentioned in this week’s article, please do not hesitate to call my Capitol or District Office. As always, my offices are available at any time to assist with questions, concerns or comments (Capitol Office, 512-463-0672; District Office; 361-949-4603).

– State Representative Todd Hunter, District 32

Rep. Hunter represents Nueces County (Part). He can be contacted at [email protected] or at 512-463-0672.

Follow us on Facebook:The Island Moon Newspaper

Send photos and letters to: [email protected]

POA News by Marvin Jones, President

News You Can Use As always, let me have your thoughts. You

can reach me at [email protected]

PIPOA Corporate Structure- The Padre Isles Property Owners Association Inc. is a duly authorized Texas non-profit Corporation. The Corporation is governed by its Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws. The Bylaws specifically state that there are five Corporate officers. According to the Bylaws, each officer has specific duties and responsibilities that other Board Members do not have. For example, the President is “The Chief Executive Officer of the Association.” In addition, the President shall supervise the Executive Director and the administration of the affairs of the Association. The President’s position has both specific responsibilities and general responsibility for the PIPOA.

Another example of the Corporate structure is the Treasurers position. The Treasurer has direct responsibility for overseeing the custody of Corporate funds and securities and the keeping of adequate books of account. Therefore, the Treasure interacts with our bookkeeper, bankers, investment advisers, and CPAs.

Board Members who are not Corporate Officers have no specific responsibilities beyond their role as member representatives and trustees with fiduciary duties.

The PIPOA is changing from the past’s relative informal structure to a more formal Corporate structure to follow the Bylaws and facilitate the betterment of the PIPOA for its members. The role of Corporate officers is not always understood and sometimes not accepted by other Board Members. The Officers along with the Executive Director conduct the PIPOA business in accordance with their responsibilities stated in the Bylaws.

Billish Park- How can we use the Park? We have the Easter Egg Hunt and the Art Walk. Perhaps next year, volunteers could organize a Christmas Theme in the park with lights and perhaps a Santa Village. Maybe Santa could visit the children. This might be incorporated into the Christmas parade. The PIPOA welcomes creative ideas regarding ways to use the park for our community.

Litter Critter- The next Litter Critter is scheduled for Saturday, December 15, 2018, at the Briscoe King Pavilion parking lot from 9:00 AM until dumpsters are full. Come early! We need more volunteers to help with the unloading. Young, strong persons are especially welcome! Litter Critter is an example of your PIPOA working with the City for the benefit of our members.

Board Meeting- The next regularly scheduled Board Meeting is December 11 at the Island Presbyterian Church starting at 5:30. The Board agreed to combine November and December’s meeting due to the holidays.

Vacant Board Seat- The resignation of Vicki Marsden created a vacant Board seat. It is up to the remaining Board members to appoint a member to fill the vacant seat and finish out the term of the seat. Registration to be appointed to fill the seat is now open. Registration began November 16 and shall be closed on December 15, 2018. Thus applicants will have a full month to think it over and register. After registration closes, the Board will conduct interviews of the applicants. After the interviews, the Board will vote on the applicants. If you are interested in applying, please send an email or come by the PIPOA Office with a letter of registration and please supply a bio for the Board to review. Email [email protected]

Full Transparency and Disclosure

Notes from NuecesBy Brent Chesney Nueces County Commissioner Precint 4

Let the campaigning cease….It was a long and difficult election season. The good news is it is over. I know another one will be starting soon but let’s breathe our sigh of relief now while we can. As we all knew Nueces County will have a new County Judge in January. While we did not know who it would be we do now. Congratulations to Barbara Canales for being elected as Nueces County Judge. Thank you to Mike Pusley for his years of service.

I have known Barbara for many years. I believe she will be a friend to Precinct 4. I believe she realizes the value of our beautiful beaches and all the other important parts of Precinct 4. I am hopeful Barbara will be the same kind of non-partisan County Judge as Loyd Neal has been. I look forward to working with her.

I also want to take a moment to again thank Judge Loyd Neal for his years of outstanding service to Nueces County. He has truly been a friend to Precinct 4 and all of Nueces County. God Bless you on your retirement Loyd and THANK YOU!!!

Countywide Drainage District being discussed

There is a lot of traction for a cooperative County wide Drainage District. The Nueces

County Commissioners Court is committed to moving this forward. There have been discussions with the City of Corpus Christi, City of Robstown and many of the impacted cities and areas in Nueces County. It is time to take drainage seriously. The only way this works in my opinion is by working together as a region with our elected state legislators to move this forward. Stay tuned.

Port A property to be offered for sale in a sealed bid process

The Court approved moving forward with selling a piece of valuable property in Port Aransas. It will be done in a sealed bid process. The property is on Alister. It is the old jail building that the city had been using as its computer center. The building was damaged badly by Hurricane Harvey. The Commissioners Court decided with input from Port Aransas that the better thing to do is to tear down the building and sell the property. Details to follow.

Merry Christmas

We still live in the greatest country in the world. We have so much to be thankful for. From my family to you and yours MERRY CHRISTMAS! Let us all remember Jesus is the reason for the season.

FEMA grants $2.68 million to Aransas County Navigation

District for Hurricane Harvey-damaged Pavilions

FEMA has awarded more than $2.68 million to the Aransas County Navigation District for two pavilions damaged by Hurricane Harvey.

The Rockport Beachfront Pavilion and the Saltwater Pavilion in Rockport, as well as their annexes, sustained significant damage to their roofs, walls, floors, stairways and air-conditioning systems. FEMA provided more than $2.68 million to replace the buildings or restore them to their pre-disaster condition.

The total cost of the projects exceeds $2.98 million, and the FEMA grant requires a 10 percent nonfederal contribution by the applicant, or $298,425

The funding is provided by FEMA’s Public Assistance program, which reimburses communities, schools and other eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a disaster. Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal governments, U.S. territories, local governments and certain private nonprofits. The grant program provides funding directly to the state for disbursement to the applicants.

For additional information on Hurricane Harvey and Texas recovery, visit the Hurricane Harvey disaster web page at www.fema.gov/disaster/4332, Facebook at www.facebook.com/FEMAHarvey, the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or the Texas Division of Emergency Management website at www.dps.texas.gov/dem/.

Homeowner Assistance Program

Open for IslandProgram expected to

help thousands rebuildApplications for the Homeowner Assistance

Program are now available in Nueces and San Patricio counties.

The Texas General Land Office (GLO) allocated $1.098 billion in Community Development Block Grants for Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), for rehabilitation and reconstruction of thousands of owner-occupied single-family homes damaged by Hurricane Harvey.

“Hurricane Harvey damaged thousands of homes and devastated the livelihoods of countless Texans,” said Texas Land Commissioner George P. Bush. “With more than $1 billion allocated to it, this is the largest single program designed to help rebuild the lives of thousands of Texas families. Now our focus turns to spreading the word that help is here for those who are still struggling to repair their homes and rebuild their lives.”

Potential applicants should review the Homeowner Assistance Program Checklist to have all applicable documents ready prior to applying. Interested homeowners should visit http://recovery.texas.gov/hap to apply online or download a printable version of the application. Potential applicants can also find in-person assistance at regional Homeowner Assistance Program offices serving their area. In addition to a main office in each region, each county will have at least one application drop off location or satellite office. Additional satellite offices and application intake locations may be announced in the future. For assistance, interested participants can email [email protected] or call 1-844-893-8937.

For implementation of this program across 48 eligible counties, the GLO allocated funds into six regions, with the majority of funds being directed to the most impacted counties and zip codes within each region as prescribed by HUD requirements. Each region will retain its allocation until the available funds are awarded to homeowners in those region

The fish house in port A is no more by Steve Coons.


www.theislandsedgehairsalon.com

949-0794

The Island's

Edge Salon

Follow us on Facebook:The Island Moon Newspaper

Send photos and letters to: [email protected]

Michelle Matthews

Hair Cuts & Color, Waxing, Hair Extensions, Special Occasion Hair, Airbrush Make Up, Feather Extensions

Are you tired of wearing mascara? Do you suffer from black circles of smudged mascara? Do you want to have long beautiful lashes 24/7, even when you swim? Do you want longer fuller eyelashes? If you answered YES to any of these questions, we have the answer..........

XTREME™ EYELASH EXTENSIONS

Michelle is a Master Hair Stylist having learned from the best and having trained top stylists herself. She is an expert Colorist and Make Up Artist, and was the former Stylist and Make Up Artist for Miss Oklahoma.

HoursTuesday‐Friday 10am‐6pm Saturday 9am‐2pm

Walk‐Ins Welcome * Late Appointments Available

14813 S.P.I.D. Corpus Christi, TX 78418

(Next Door to Island Wash) Salon: 361‐949‐4890

www.michellessalon.com

GIFTS CERTIFICATES AVALIABLE

Small Business Tax PreparationBy Kelly Trevino

Regional Director, Corpus Christi and Victoria Better Business Bureau

It’s a new year, and a new tax season. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), with the passing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in December 2017, many small business taxpayers can expense more of the cost of certain business property. Business machinery and office equipment are just some of the items businesses can now elect to expense all or part of the cost with a maximum deduction of $1 million from the $500,000 previous amount.

But, before you start choosing a tax preparation business to help navigate the new tax law, it’s important to do your research first. In 2017, BBB processed about 2,400 reportable complaints against tax preparation services and related businesses. The median individual disputed amount for those complaints was $500, which was slightly up from the 2016 median of $400.

Unfortunately, you also must watch out for the potential for tax-related scams on your business. In 2017, BBB received about 3,500 scam tracker reports from individuals and businesses targeted by a tax scam. The IRS is the #1 most impersonated organization on BBB Scam Tracker, so these types of calls are a problem. Scam tactics often rely on intimidation, isolation, and/or pressure to act quickly, so if your staff is not trained on how to handle the potential for a scam call from the “IRS,” it’s time to pass on these three simple tips:

1. Limit Engagement: The IRS will contact you with a letter, not a phone call. Don’t

engage with anyone who calls claiming to be with the IRS and demanding payment, even if the caller ID seems to come from Washington, D.C. The number can be spoofed. Instead, limit engagement. Understandably, as with any business, customer service is key. Offer to take their full name, IRS identification number, and call back number, thank them, and end communication.

2. Call the IRS Directly: If you owe federal taxes, or think you might, call the IRS at 800-829-1040. Also, if you’ve collected information from a potential scammer, pass that information over to them as well. Real IRS workers can help you sort out any potential issues.

3. File a Report: Report your experience to BBB Scam Tracker at bbb.org/scamtracker.

Additionally, the IRS has a small business and self-employed tax center available on their website to help navigate your business taxes. Visit the website at https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed. For more helpful business tips, visit bbb.org.

Kelly Trevino is the regional director for the Corpus Christi/Victoria area of Better Business Bureau serving the Heart of Texas. Kelly is available for media interviews and speaking engagements. You can reach her by phone: (361) 945-7352 or email: [email protected].

Public Invited to Speak Up at Development Services Open

HouseConsultant to Help

Evaluate and Update UDC

The City of Corpus Christi’s Development Services Department will host an open-door meeting regarding potential updates to the Unified Development Code, Thursday, December 13 at 5:00 p.m. in the 3rd Floor Conference Room of the Frost Bank Building at 2406 Leopard Street.

Community planning consultants, Kendig Keast Collaborative will be on-hand to discuss public and privite interests, while gaining insight into the current issues, opportunities, and priorities of our community as they relate to the regulations that govern the City’s physical development. Visit www.cctexas.com/udc for the current project schedule.

Reasonable accommodations are provided upon request and in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. For assistance or to request a reasonable accommodation, please call (361) 826-3248 at least 48 hours in advance. For more information, contact Development Services at 361-826-3240 or email [email protected].

Ethanol Misfueling Danger Laid Bare: Gas Pump Photos

“The ethanol industry doesn’t want you to see

these photos”President Trump has officially moved to allow

E15 (15 percent ethanol) gasoline sales year-round – a fuel prohibited for use in recreational boats and a decision that recreational boating groups say will needlessly put 142 million American boaters at risk. Protecting Boaters at the Gas Pump is a new website with a series of photos of gas station pumps in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin that clearly shows the challenges boaters face with poor ethanol warning labels at the pump, resulting in a greater risk of misfueling.

The effort is from the National Marine Manufacturers Association’s (NMMA), which was recently shared in “Boating United” campaign that urges recreational boat owners to tweet their members of Congress to stop the expansion of the government-mandated fuel. Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) supports the effort and is urging recreational boaters to share the website with friends:

https://spark.adobe.com/page/dYPx7SjouAr2k/

“The ethanol industry doesn’t want you to see these photos of gas pumps,” said BoatUS Manager of Government Affairs David Kennedy. “The confusion presented to consumers at the pump today is real. Putting the wrong fuel in your boat will likely void your engine’s warranty. We applaud NMMA for clearly showing the misfueling problem.”

E15 is currently banned for sale in many states by the Environmental Protection Agency during summer months over concerns that it contributes to smog on hot days. The push for more ethanol into the nation’s fuel supply is a result of the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). When it was passed in 2005, RFS assumed that America’s use of gasoline would continue to grow. Since then, however, gasoline usage has not increased as forecast, which today forces more ethanol into each gallon of gas.

BoatUS has long had concerns over potential consumer misfueling with E15. Most recreational boaters refuel their vessels at roadside gas stations where pump-labeling requirements are minimal with just a small E15 orange warning label. The advocacy, services and safety group for recreational boaters is a member of Smarter Fuel Future, a coalition that aims to reform the RFS.

Can you find the E15 warning label?

Port A. Art Center HappeningsFirst Friday

At December’s Port A. Art Center First Friday event, Graphic Design students from TAMUCC will present the Art Center with a brand new logo and graphics package. The students are donating this $2,500 work as part of Port A’s Hurricane Harvery recorey. Pictured abore: Back Row left to right-Laura Griffith BOD-Babrara Behrens BOD- Art

Lopez TAMUCC-Sonny Martinez TAMUCCFront Row Left to right-Hannah Maldonado TAMUCC- Karen Winship Art Center

President-Mary Rose Executive Director-Karen Murray Secretary-Arlene Hughes BOD-Michele Hein BOD-Joan Holt -Adivsory BOD

First Friday takes place on the first Friday of each month (December 7th this time). The Port A. Art Gallery features new exhibits, music, light appetizers and drinks. The event

begins at 6 p.m.

year’s clean up! The Upper Laguna Madre effort removed over 1,000 pounds of bagged trash, as well as large debris items, and fallen and destroyed signage.

The Lower Laguna Madre Clean Up targeted 18 spoil islands and one mile of the Arroyo Colorado shoreline. This effort removed 3,780 pounds of trash and debris, as well as 460 pieces of fishing tackle. “Colonial nesting waterbirds and their young face a host of challenges, but perhaps the most devastating are casualties that occur from discarded fishing lines and tackle due to entanglement,” said Stephanie Bilodeau, Conservation Biologist with the Coastal Bird Program, “Thanks to the volunteers at this clean up, there are 460 pieces of fishing tackle that won’t be harming wildlife on the nesting islands or Arroyo banks.”

The new partnership with Keep Aransas County Beautiful targeted Little Bay in Rockport, who’s islands were still suffering effects from Hurricane Harvey. Approximately 3,500 pounds of debris were removed by barge from just two nesting island, most of which were pieces of docks, piers, and stairs deposited by the storm surge. As a part of this effort the volunteers also installed a new nesting platform and established 160 square feet of prickly pear patches, which are used by wading birds for nesting.

This year’s Rookery Island Clean Up partners included Aransas County Navigation District, Audubon Texas, City of Corpus Christi, Doc’s Seafood and Steaks, Keep Aransas County Beautiful, Texas General Land Office - Oil Spill, Texas Parks & Wildlife - Coastal Fisheries, Texas Parks & Wildlife - Game Wardens, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Southwest Region. “A large scale effort like this would not have been possible without these partnerships and volunteers,” said David Newstead, Director of the Coastal Bird Program. “We are fortunate here in the Coastal Bend to have so many willing to dedicate their time to the protection of our colonial nesting waterbirds.”

Rookery Island Clean Ups Remove 8,000 Pounds of Trash and Debris

by Kathryn Tunnell

As the summer draws to an end and our local colonial nesting waterbirds fledge their last offspring, the work of Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program’s (CBBEP) Coastal Bird Program kicks into high gear. The fall and winter are packed with all things necessary to prepare rookery islands in the Coastal Bend for the next nesting season, including everything from installing nesting platforms and informational signage, to planting woody vegetation and exotic plant removal. One of the most important efforts, however, is the removal of harmful trash and debris.

CBBEP’s Coastal Bird Program, in conjunction with US Fish & Wildlife Service, began hosting Rookery Island Clean Ups back in 2006 to engage volunteers from the public, as well as agencies and non-profits with a natural resource management to help clean the shorelines of these important waterbird rookeries. The effort has grown considerably, this year marking the 12th year of the Upper Laguna Madre Rookery Island Clean Up, the 3rd annual event for the Lower Laguna Madre Rookery Island Clean Up, as well as the beginning of a new partnership with Keep Aransas County Beautiful to expand the effort north into Aransas County.

Over 8,000 pounds of trash and debris were removed by volunteers from sensitive rookery island habitat at the three locations during this

Egrets and their young nesting in cactus on rookery island.

Volunteers in Upper Laguna Madre removing debris

Little Bay volunteer with freshly planted prickly pear.


The Island Outdoors

From Trash to Treasure: Kitchen Composting By Stacey Kempf

This time of year, many of us find ourselves spending more time in the kitchen whipping up holiday meals and treats, and all that meal preparation and recipe making can lead to a lot of empty egg shells, potato peelings, and the like filling up our trash receptacles and eventually our landfills.

Instead of ending up with an over-stuffed trash can this year though, why not give yourself a beautiful and healthy lawn and garden by tossing all that kitchen waste into a compost bin instead?

Kitchen composting is a great way to take what we would usually throw away and create a rich nutrient dense material to add to our soil, and it doesn’t have to be a daunting task to take on either. In fact, according to Nueces County Master Gardener Deb Holliday, “Kitchen composting is something that everybody can do.”

She goes on to add that even those of us without lawns, or large trees, or the traditional landscapes seen over the bridge, can create compost just by utilizing our leftovers.

What is Compost?

Compost is merely decayed organic material, but once it’s added to your soil, it can do delightful things for your plants and lawn, especially here on the island. “A sandy soil needs to have more organic material in it,” states Holliday, “to be able to hold moisture, support plants and provide nutrition to the roots.”

Also, according to the Texas A&M’s AgriLife Extension Service, adding compost also improves our sandy soil’s physical characteristics and increases the amount of air moving through it; all of which means a healthier and more vibrant garden.

Composting Ingredients

To create compost, you need four essential ingredients:

1) Carbon (Brown): Think woody materials. Dry yard waste, shredded paper, hay, non-treated sawdust, and cardboard.

2) Nitrogen (Green): this is where your kitchen scraps come into play in the form of fruit & vegetable leftovers, coffee grounds, eggshells. DO NOT include animal or dairy products. If you have a lawn, your non-chemically treated lawn clippings fall into this category.

3) Water: Your compost pile needs to be kept moist, not soggy though. It should feel damp but not have water dripping out.

4) Air: This is introduced into your compost pile by turning the pile. Doing so ensures that decomposition happens faster and keeps your pile from smelling like rotten eggs.

Getting Started

Composting requires a place for all your ingredients to be layered together, and this is traditionally done outdoors, although indoor composting, with the help of some special worms, is possible. For outdoor composting though, you’ll need to find a location that is dry, shady and near a water source.

You also need to decide if you’re going to keep a loose pile, build a container, or purchase one. All three are viable options, and for kitchen composters, a simple DIY wire bin works well. My personal choice is a store-bought bin though, as they are available in various sizes, many allow for easy turning with this use of a handle (no pitch-fork required), and some are made out of rodent-proof material — all pluses in my book.

No matter how you choose to store your pile though, you’ll want to keep things even in regards to the type of material in it. While you can add to it as waste becomes available, you don’t want it dominated by only one type of waste. For proper decomposition to occur, you’ll want to aim to have equal amounts, by weight, of brown (nitrogen) and green (carbon) material in it.

Helpful Tips

*Keep an airtight collection bucket in your kitchen. You’ll be able to store scraps until you’re ready to take them out to the compost pile.

*Let things heat up. The ideal temp of your pile should be 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

*Keep things small. If you cut up what you put into your collection, it will break down faster.

*Turn your pile over at least once a week.

*Keep Fido out of it. Never add pet waste to your pile.

*Never add weeds or diseased plants.

To Learn More

Visit the Texas A&M AgriLife Extention website at https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu

2018 LA POSADA BOAT PARADE REGISTRATION

Sponsored by the La Posada Foundation

All of the following information is required. Please print legibly.

NAME_______________________________________________________________________ ADDRESS_____________________________________________________________________ PHONE WITH AREA CODE________________________________________________________ E-MAIL ADDRESS_______________________________________________________________ POWER________SAIL_____________BOAT NAME____________________________________ BOAT DESCRIPTION_____________________________________________________________ STATE REGISTRATION_________________________________________LEN GTH____________ NAME OF INSURANCE COMPANY__________________________________________________ Additional requirements: There will be a MANDATORY Captains Meeting Thursday 6 December 2018 at the Padre Island Yacht Club 13403 Whitecap Blvd at 7pm. Parade positions, call signs, parade route, radio frequencies & safety will be discussed. All vessels must meet state & federal safety requirements. All vessels must have a working VHF radio. Captains are responsible for the safe & prudent operation of their vessels. Only engine powered vessels are allowed to participate. Participants are asked to complete the entire parade route for which they enter. Boat categories: Power - 29ft & under – 30ft & over Sail – all lengths Judging categories: Creativity, Enthusiasm, Music, Decoration Effort Trophies: There will be trophies for 1st & 2nd place in each boat category & a Fleet Award (Best in Show) covering all categories. Indicate Parade route/date in which you will participate. _____Friday 7 December 2018 Galleon Bay/Commodore Cove Marshalling area at the entrance to Commodore Canal by 6:30pm. Parade starts at 7pm. _____Saturday 8 December 2018 North & South of Whitecap Blvd. Marshalling area by the Caravel Drive boat ramp (north of Whitecap) by 5:30pm. Parade begins 6:00pm. Instructions: Return this completed Registration form & Release of Liability electronically to: [email protected] or nick colosi 13561 Camino de Plata Court, CC,TX 78418. Questions: call nick 618-889-9160

Saturday parade route

P.I.E. Holiday Home Tour & Kickoff Party

The Padre Island Enrichment club started the holiday season last week with

their annual kickoff party and Holiday Home Tour events which raise money for

scholarships.

La Posada Weekend EventsFriday December 7 - Lighted Boat Parade in the Padre Isles North Canals. Viewing available at Marker 37, Docs and Snoopys. Parade starts at 7:00 PM. Please bring a new, unopened toy to the event as the restaurants will be collecting the toys for the

La Posada Foundation.Saturday December 8 - Lighted Boat Parade in the Padre Isles South Canals. Parade starts at 6:00 PM.

Padre Island Christmas Parade Sunday, December 9

The Nueces County Emergency Services District Number 2 will hold its annual Christmas Parade on Padre Island on Sunday, December 9. The route is as follows:

It will begin at 5:45 p.m. at Nueces County Park and wind through Island streets.

Right turn from Nueces County Park cross PR @@ onto Encantada,

Left on Palmira, Right on San Filipe, Right on Cabo Blanco,

Right on Punta Bonaire, Right on Sea Pines, Right on Palo Seco,

Left on Blanquilla Dr., Right on El Soccorro Loop, Left on Conquina Bay Ave.,

Right on Palo Seco Dr., Left on Sea Pines, Right on Coral Vine St.,

Left on Allamanda Dr, Left on Pionciana St. Right on Bay Bean,

Left on Treebine Dr, Right on Sea Pines, Left Palmira, Left on Encantada,

Right on Gypsy, Left on Whitecap, Right on Dasmarinas, Left on Aquarius St.,

Right on Whitecap, Right on Tesoro, Right on Cobo De Bara Circle,

Right on Tesore, Right Left Port Royal Ct., Right on Tesoro Dr, Right on Camino De Plata,

Left on Whitecap, Left on Aquarius St., Right on Commodore Dr to Schlitterbahn (break)

Left on Commodore Dr., Right on Aquarius St., Right at Cabana St.,

Left on Commodore Dr., Left on Compass, Right on Headsail Ave., Left on Frontage,

Left on Jack Fish, Right on Aquarius, Left on Sea Horse, Right on Aloha St.,

Right on Suntan Ave, Left on Aquarius, Right on Ambrosia, Left on Marina,

End.

Sunday Night Lighted Golf Cart Parade Brings Free Whataburgers to the Island

Bring a toy to the parade and get a free Whataburger

There is a new wrinkle to the Sunday Night La Posada Parade by the Nueces County Emergency Services District 2, the U.S Marines and Whataburger.

For the first time two Golf Carts in the parade will have a Marine, in full dress uniform and a uniformed Whataburger employee sitting side by side on the back of the cart.

The Whataburger person will be handing out FREE Whataburger coupons while supplies last) to everyone who hands the The Marine a new unwrapped toy for the “Toys for Tots” program. Please support this fine program and help La Posada, The Marines and Whataburger ensure that all the Children in Need in our area have the Joy of Christmas in their life this year.

Merry Christmas and let’s LaPosada

Moon Classifieds #764

Crossword Solution


Snoopy’s (361) 949-8815Scoopy’s (361) 949-7810

13313 S. Padre Island Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78418

Under the BridgeOpen Sun - Thurs 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Fri - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Now Accepting Visa Mastercard & Discover

Scoopy’s HoursOpen 7 Days a Week

Sun - Thurs 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

The Pest Control ProfessionalsOVER 30 YEAR EXPERIENCE

Padre Island and Port Aransas’ Oldest Island Based Pest Control Company.

15481 SPID Just pastWhitecap on Right

Locally Owned by Island Resident Bill Schroeder

949-0208

Trust

Residential and Commercial ServicesTermite * Ants * Rodent * Critter * Roaches * Spiders * Fleas

On Padre Island Since 1994.

Here’s how to place a Classified Ad

To place an ad you can call me at 361-834-1382 or

Email your ads to: [email protected]

No texts please Costs start at $12 for 25 words,

20 cents a word after that. For a small additional charge, your ad can be centered, made larger or pictures or clip art can be added. Ads with payment can be taken to

our office at: 14646 Compass St., Suite 3

Deadline for classified ads is no later than NOON on Tuesday

PAYMENT MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE PUBLICATION

We accept American Express, Visa,

MasterCard

Legal & Business Notices Do you need to place a legal or business

notice? You’ll find that our rates for running your notice cost less than many other

publication in Nueces County. Call Arlene @ 361-834-1382

The Island Moon Weekly for more information

The Island Newspaper since 1996

Help Wanted Padre Escapes

Looking For Talented Part-Time Housekeepers

We prefer applicants who want only part-time work to supplement their income or who do not want full time. Schedules to suit your

needs. No experience necessary, we will train and provide all your cleaning supplies.

You will need your own vacuum and reliable transportation.

We pay piece rate but the successful housekeeper will average

$20-25 an hour. Apply at 14945 S. Padre Island Drive

Services Appliance Repair

-N- House Appliance Repair Most major brands & appliances

Mention this ad for discount on repairs 361-960-0911

BBQ Grill Cleaning

CALL

Because YOU

don’t want to do it! Frank 361-813-1929 cell

361-99-GRILL (994-7455) CoastalBendGrillCleaning.com

Services Children & Adult

Swimming Lessons CHILDREN & ADULT

SWIMMING LESSONS Specializing in children 3 and up

and adults 30+ years experience

Heated pool in Port Aransas 512-797-0313

Retired Teacher Cleaning & Janitorial

G & M Unlimited Janitorial Commercial & Residential

Offices – Apartments – Homes Move Ins – Move Outs

Weekly – Biweekly Insured & Bonded 361-215-2663

Free estimates Seven days a week Computer Repair

Scott’s Computer Repair PC/Mac Repair Networking

Home Security Camera Installation Cable TV & Internet Wiring Fast 24 Hour Turn-Around

Home or Business Free Pick Up and Delivery

Call 949-4604 or 425-5627 Pet & House Sitting

ISLAND PET & HOUSE SITTING Pet Sitting Service on the Island

References upon request 361-537-3637

Pool & Spa Services ATLANTIS POOL AND SPA SERVICE

Weekly Pool Maintenance – Repairs Renovations - Chemicals – Supplies

Residential – Commercial 25 Years Experience – Insured Free Delivery! Free Estimates!

Island Resident Owned Call 361-949-8899 Power Washing

ISLANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE We Power Wash

Houses, Driveways, Fences, Decks & Sidewalks

Call us now to schedule an estimate 361-949-2773

Tree Trimming CC TREE SERVICE

361-443-4852 Tree Trimming & Removal Stump Grinding

A+ BBB Accredited Fully Insured

www.cctrees.net

Services Yard Care

Islandscape Maintenance

* Lawn Maintenance * Power Washing * Palm Trimming * Fall Cutback * Lot Mowing * Decks * Installation

FREE ESTIMATES 361-949-2773

Cutting Crew Lawn Maintenance Let us help get your yard in shape

We do mowing, trimming, edging, tree pruning

Professional lawn equipment and 4wd tractor

Large or small lots Free estimates – Insured

We take pride in our work! Call Robert 361-800-3535

Home Maintenance Concrete Work CONCRETE WORK

All aspects of Concrete Driveways, Patios, Retaining walls, etc.

Insured 361-960-9001

Fences/Decks/Docks Boat Lifts

Artistic Construction Decks, Docks, Pilings, Boat Lifts, Painting,

Remodeling, Welding, Blacksmithing, Handyman.

Licensed – Insured – PIBA Member. Decades of experience.

361-444-4702 [email protected]

Plumbers Blades Plumbing, LLC.

Locally Owned Residential Service, Remodel

and New Construction Scott Blades

Licensed Master Plumber RMP 42117

361-271-6487 Check us out on our website:

www.bladesplumbingllc.com 10% Discount for Island residents

Repair/Remodel Re-Parrot

We’ll fix it right – For a song!

Home maintenance repair & light

remodeling Free Estimates

Located on “The Island” G. Michael Wall 361-779-6621

Home Maintenance Repair/Remodel (continued)

ISLAND NATIVE MASTER CARPENTER

30 years+ experience Doors – Windows – Decks – Cabinets

Sheetrock – Tape and Float 361-815-7900 CARPENTER

Custom Fences, Decks, Docks Home Repair and Remodel

Nathan Lee 361-510-0114

MASTER CARPENTER & CREW 20+ years’ experience

All aspects of Remodeling, Pergolas, Fences, etc.

Insured 361-960-9001

Remodeling & Handyman Services Bill “Billy” Olson, Jr.

Drywall Float & Tape, Patch Repairs

Make Readys Painting Carpentry Honey-Dos Much More!

Cell: 713-201-0628 E-Mail: [email protected]

Roofing Wolfe Construction, Inc.

Insurance Restoration Specialists

Roofing Residential & Commercial

Bryan Wolfe 361-949-1180

15809 El Soccorro Loop Corpus Christi TX 78418 ROOFING PROS!

Custom Home Exteriors, Inc. Tom Sheehan 361-949-2100

Engineer Inspected/Windstorm Certified Quality “Owens Corning” Shingles

Island Homeowner Roofing Padre Island

Since 1985! A+ ROOFING & REMODELING

AC – Electrical – Fencing Foundation Repair

Painting – Plumbing Residential & Commercial

361-438-4095

LONE STAR CONSTRUCTION

Specializing in all commercial and residential roofing, paving and

remodeling. Licensed and insured References available

No job too big or too small For free estimate call

Joshua at 361-658-1820 www.texaslonestarconstruction.net

Public Invited GUN SHOW

AT THE ARANSAS PASS CIVIC CENTER 700 W. Wheeler December 8 and December 9

Buy, trade, and sell guns, ammo, coins, and militaria. Tables available

Call Jimmy 432-438-1090 Real Estate

WATERFRONT CONDO 15413 Gun Cay Ct, Unit 101

One bedroom, one bath, updated, terracotta tile throughout except for bedroom. All appliances included washer, dryer, stove, fridge, and

microwave. Screened back porch. Boat slips and trailer parking available.

Priced at $129,900 Call Sylvia at 361-947-1213

for showings Photos available at your request

Just listed, Surfside, 2/1 furnished condos across from the beach on N. Padre Island: #218, second floor, vinyl wood look and carpet flooring, $110,000. #112, first floor, $112,500 with $5000 decorating allowance. Nice pool area. Barbara Thrasher, Coldwell Banker Island Escapes, REALTORS, 817-271-6880, HomesPortAransas.com

Office Space Available OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE

FOR LEASE Up to 1360 sq ft is available at:

15217 So. Padre Island Dr. Ste 110 Call 361-225-0220

Boat Slips BOAT SLIPS

ON PACKERY CHANNEL Available immediately

Personal or Commercial Use Call 361-332-9978

Boat Services Buckshot Services

Tom Buckner USCG 100 Ton Master

Insured Bi-monthly Service Includes:

Check Boat Lift Run Boat Check All Systems Thorough Boat Wash Provide List of Needed Repairs

361-947-3337 [email protected]

Al-Anon & AA Meetings Is alcohol causing a problem in your

family? Try Al-Anon

Al-Anon meets at 7:00 pm Sundays at Padre Island Baptist Church

Friends and families of problem drinkers find understanding and support

At Al-Anon Meetings An Al-Anon group meets each

Thursday at 7:00 PM at St Andrew by the Sea 14238 Encantada Ave.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS MEETINGS

The Sunset 7 AA Meetings are held on Monday, Wednesday & Friday at 7 PM

at : The Presbyterian Church

On the Island 14030 Fortuna Bay Dr.

In addition on Sunday AA Meetings are held at 8 AM at

The Pavillon on the Boardwalk Near Padre Bali

you could be right. I have one more shout out to give to yet another island treasure, Neesy Thompkins, who spearheaded the project to install the bollards next to the jetty that were destroyed in the hurricane. Those particular bollards keep people from driving up to the water and protect the birds. Thank you Neesy for caring so much about our wildlife. You can follow her on Facebook and read her weekly report on the state of our island. She watches out us, folks.

DO NOT MISS LIST

On Thursday the 6th, Americana hot shot Jack Ingram will play Brewster Street. On Friday, country singer, James Little will play Giggity’s. On Saturday rockabilly rock star Matt Hole and his Hot Rod Gang will play the grand opening at Texas Red’s. That will be a PARTY. Plus Ulrich Ellison and Tribe will play Giggity’s. That’s all you need right there. Be safe out there.

And tell the people that you love, that you love them every day. God bless.

♫♪♫ And, that’s the truth ♫♪♫

boat and crew. This island would NOT be the same without our beautiful pirates at the Gaff. Kip and Heidi are such treasured citizens and pillars of the community and I simple adore them. I can’t imagine this place without them or the Gaff. I want to mention that another island treasure, Father James Derkits, will be performing at the Gaff on December 13 and that will be a show NOT TO MISS. And speaking of the Gaff, I want to send a shout out to the manager Patty Briscoe who recently married one of the original good guys, David Hamilton. Congrats guys. I couldn’t love yall more. I know you’re thinking that I just love everybody…

Full goose bozo…

Our little town is full of characters. Make that full goose bozo characters… and that’s what makes our town so great and so unique. And I so love them all. All of you. And, I personally accept my duty as one of those characters in this town and to do my best to represent Port A as a card carrying member. I started thinking about all the old characters that have walked among us through the years. And there are many. What I’m trying to say here is without all of us, this town would just be another generic burg with a milk bland personality. Not us. Port A is different and it’s because of our characters. True story. If you’ve been here a while, you probably remember local characters like Lawnmower Ted, Starvin’ Marvin or my old pal Van Blize who walked our street daily with his dog D.O.G. It’s what makes us what the unique attraction that we

are. Otherwise, we’re just another tourist town with exorbitant prices and a gung ho chamber of commerce. As I sat in Texas Red’s the other day, I observed character after local character cascade through the door, one after the other. It was beautiful. Shorty’s is the same. The bar is lined with them daily. For instance, my friend Carrie, who we call Pink because her hair is blue, stopped by at Red’s with her dog and she told him to, “tell Ronnie you love him.” And I’ll be a son of a gun if that dog didn’t tell me “I love you” just as plain as day. It’s pretty much like that everywhere I go, every day, and I wouldn’t change a thing. And one thing I really love about this town is everyone’s nicknames. I wrote a column on this subject ten years ago and here are some of the nicknames I discovered back then. We’ve lost some of them but this is cool: Ronyea (that’s me), Janet Planet, Sully, Rockin’, Kiwi, Starvin’ Marvin, Shirtless Pete, Hippie John, Painter Bob, Preacher, Toothless Becky, Crackhead Billy, Painter Bill, Colorado, Bicycle Bill, Sir Monty, Captain Speedo, Fish, Steve the Jeweler, Boink, Laughing Lee, Casper, Hanger Man, Woody (all the Woody’s), Rain Man, T Joe, Russell the Love Muscle, Parasail Brian, Meximo, Lighthouse Rick, Cowboy, Drywall Dave, Big Dave, Little Dave,

By Ronnie Narmour

[email protected]

Three Chords and the TruthDecember 6, 2018 Island Moon A 18

GIGGITY’S RESTAURANT & BARLIVE MUSIC

EVERY NIGHT

All You Can Eat FRIED

FLOUNDEREveryday 11-7

The GaffPizza Beer Darts Belt sander Races

Expert Computer Repairs

Live MusicThursday, December 13James Derkits @ The GaffFree Beer Band @ Giggity’sChino Moreno @ Brewster StreetChris Saenz @ Harrison’s LandingBobby Carter @ Blackbeard’s on the BeachRuben Limas @ Blackbeard’s TooSamantha Atkins @ Katz 21

Friday, December 14Toman Brothers @ Giggity’sPassing Strangers @ Rockit’sAnother Level @ Brewster StreetOddfellas @ Pelican LoungeBobby Carter @ Blackbeard’s on the BeachRuben Limas @ Blackbeard’s Too

Saturday, December 15Todd Dorn @ Giggity’sSplendiferous @ Rockit’sMetal Shop @ Brewster StreetAdrian Taylor @ Blackbeard’s TooBobby Carter @ Blackbeard’s on the BeachRuben Limas @ Blackbeard’s Too

Sunday, December 16Antone @ Giggity’s

Monday, December 17Open Jam @ Giggity’s

Tuesday, December 18Free Beer Band @ Giggity’s

Wednesday, December 19Jim Dugan @ Giggity’s

Thursday, December 20Free Beer Band @ Giggity’sKyle Park @ Brewster Street

Friday, December 21Bad Buoys @ Giggity’sSplendiferous @ Brewster Street

Saturday, December 22Chanklas @ Giggity’sCruise Control @ Rockit’s

Sunday, December 23Antone @ Giggity’s

Monday, December 24Open Jam @ Giggity’s

Tuesday, December 25Paul & Victoria @ Giggity’s

TonightThursday, December 6Free Beer Band @ Giggity’sJack Ingram @ Brewster StreetThe Black Dahlia Murder @ House of RockChris Saenz @ Harrison’s LandingBobby Carter @ Blackbeard’s on the BeachSamantha Atkins @ Katz 21

Friday, December 7James Little @ Giggity’sClarissa Serna @ Rockit’sTony Lewis @ Brewster StreetVoodoo Logic @ It’ll Do SaloonCruise Control @ Pelican LoungeBobby Carter @ Blackbeard’s TooRuben Limas @ Blackbeard’s on the Beach

Saturday, December 8Ulrich Ellison & Tribe @ Giggity’sMatt Hole & the Hot Rod Gang @ Texas Red’sThe Nutcracker @ American Bank CenterThird Coast Rhythm @ It’ll Do SaloonHill Country Revival @ Pelican LoungeAdrian Taylor @ Blackbeard’s TooBobby Carter @ Blackbeard’s on the Beach

Sunday, December 9Antone @ Giggity’sMelissa Brooke @ Pelican LoungeBobby Carter @ Blackbeard’s on the Beach

Monday, December 10Open Jam @ Giggity’sSteven Hansen @ Blackbeard’s on the Beach

Tuesday, December 11Paul & Victoria @ Giggity’sBobby Carter @ Blackbeard’s on the Beach

Wednesday, December 12Billy Snipes @ Giggity’sParker McCollum @ Brewster StreetRich Lockhart @ Harrison’s LandingJohn Eric @ Pelican LoungeRuben Limas @ Blackbeard’s on the Beach

treasureislandporta 315 N. Alister (361) 416-1020

Treasure IslandOPEN AT 5 P.M.

LOUNGE BACKYARD

DANCE CLUB

OPEN Till 2am • 823 Tarpon St. Port Aransas

132 W. Cotter St. Port A On the Waterfront

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Port A’s Oldest and

Friendliest

Bastrop Dave, Gaff Top Dave, Barefoot Dave, Super Dave, Steve-O, Special K, Sherrie Berry, Scary Sherrie, Ramp Man, Flounder Fred, Coon Ass Chad, Diver Todd, Turtle Todd, French Fred, Tatoo Jamie, Love Monkey, Bicycle Mark, Pilsberry, Sonic, Big Heber, Little Heber, Drunken Mike, Accordion Rose, Bottle Head, Drop Dead Fred, Ice Cream Erin, Roller Bob, Loud Rick, One Eyed Jerald, Red Headed Kim and Lawn Mower Ted. I remember when I wrote this piece, the late Dave Hix helped me with all the names since I was new to the island at that point.

The ugly face of Harvey finally removed…

There was a ton of cool stuff going on last weekend. For one thing, the big ugly face of Hurricane Harvey, which is the condemned building next to Fisherman’s Wharf in the flats area, finally met it’s demise. I bet I’ve seen hundreds of folks taking pictures of it in the last year and a half. I stood out on the porch at Shorty’s and watched them tearing the place down and was virtually overcome by the fumes coming from it. It was one nasty, smelly disaster and I’m glad it’s gone. We’re talking one huge mess that reminded us every day of what we’ve been through since the storm. Good riddance.

Scattered shots…

There wasn’t a whole lot of live music going on last weekend. I did catch the great Mike O’Neill blues band with the best sidemen this planet can offer: Charlie Rouzer, Art Galvan and Antone Perez. Heck, those guys could even make me sound good. Also, Port A had their annual Christmas parades last Saturday and as is usual, I led the brigade on my trike. I so love a parade, especially the golf cart parades of Por A which are religiously led by the Gaff’s pirate

LIVE MUSICJames Little Dec. 7 Ulrich Ellison Dec. 8 Antone & All Stars Dec. 9 Open Jam Dec. 10 Paul & Victoria Dec. 11 Billy Snipes Dec. 12

722 Tarpon, Port Aransas, TX

Father James Derkits will perform at the

Gaff on December 13.

Matt Hole and the Hot Rod Gang will play Texas Red’s grand opening this

Saturday.

Patty and David tied the knot in Arizona last week. CONGRATS guys.

Port A characters Vaughn, Catfish, Kat, Lisa and Sean at Texas Red’s.

Thanks tothe good folks that helped today along with Nueces County Park employees. Together, over 70 bollards

were set to protect the birds that call the beach home..

The Gaff is represented at the annual Christmas parade last Saturday.

The Mike O’Neill blues band played Giggity’s last weekend.

The ugly face of Hurricane Harvey finally came to an end. Photo by Steve Coons.j

You don’t have to look far to find real characters in Port A.

Port A had their annual Christmas parade last Saturday.

Grand Opening this Saturday with Matt Hole

and the Hot Rod Gang

la posada kickoff a2 enchanted forest a4 rookery island ...enchanted forest a4 rookery island...

Documents