Supporting Our Island Small Businesses: The Backbone of Our Economy

June 25, 2025 By

As your Mayor, and as a former small business owner myself, I know firsthand the grit, determination, and resilience it takes to keep the lights on, payroll met, and customers happy. For 15 years, I proudly ran my own Allstate insurance agency. I built it from the ground up, navigated economic ups and downs, and ultimately sold it after years of hard work and dedication. That experience shaped how I lead today, with a deep understanding of the pressures our small business owners face every single day.

Here on Padre Island, our small businesses aren’t just neighborhood conveniences, they are a driving force of our local economy. From family-run restaurants to surf shops, Realtors, fishing charters, boutiques, and service providers, these enterprises embody the entrepreneurial spirit that makes our city unique.

More than 82% of businesses in Corpus Christi are classified as small businesses, and on the Island, they account for an outsized portion of both job creation and sales tax revenue.

When we talk about economic development, we often think of large corporations and new industries. But the truth is, small businesses are the economic bedrock of our city. They employ local residents, sponsor our youth sports teams, and reinvest their profits right back into the community. Every dollar spent locally creates ripple effects, from job growth to better infrastructure, benefiting all of us.

That’s why I’ve prioritized supporting small businesses from day one. Whether it’s cutting red tape at City Hall, investing in public safety so businesses can prosper, or fighting to keep property taxes low, I understand that pro-business policies matter. And I also understand that business owners don’t want handouts, they want a fair shot, consistent infrastructure, and a level playing field.

We’ve seen incredible resilience from our Island business community, especially through hurricanes, the pandemic, and ongoing economic challenges. Yet, you’ve stayed strong, just like I had to during my own years in business. That tenacity is something I deeply admire and work every day to support.

Let’s continue to shop local, dine local, and invest in our Island’s future… together. As Mayor, I’ll never stop being a champion for the small business owners who fuel our economy and keep the Island the vibrant family-friendly destination we

Thank you for everything you do.

~Corpus Christi Mayor Paulette Guajardo

Filed Under: Charities, corpus christi business, corpus christi city council, Investment Property, Local Food, Mayor Paulette Guajardo, mustang island, North Padre Real Estate, Padre Island Business Association, Padre Isles POA, property taxes, Restaurants, selling a home, spring cleaning, Todd Hunter, windstorm insurance

Corpus Christi’s Long-Term Water Needs

May 5, 2024 By

Addressing Corpus Christi’s Long-Term Water Needs

By Drew Molly, P.E., Chief Operating Officer of CCW

We all need water to survive, and communities are no different. Without water, communities are not able to
grow and thrive, let alone survive, so its importance to all of us cannot be overstated.
As a coastal community, Corpus Christi has a long, rich history, but none of this would have been possible
without the availability of fresh water. For years, communities in the Coastal Bend have relied on rivers and
manmade reservoirs to meet all of their water needs. However, as more people and businesses have found
their way to our region, this has put greater demands on all public services, including the availability of water.
Only relying on Mother Nature to consistently provide enough rainwater for Corpus Christi to prosper and
grow is no longer a viable solution. This is especially the case when considering the prolonged drought in our
Nueces River Watershed, and the direct impact it has on the reservoir levels of Lake Corpus Christi and Choke
Canyon.

Unfortunately, both the near- and long-term outlooks for getting enough rainfall to address the ongoing water
shortage are not promising. This is why many communities in South Texas are looking at ways to secure
reliable, drought-proof sources of water. Corpus Christi is leading this effort by proceeding with plans to build
a seawater desalination plant along the Inner Harbor that, when operational, will supply up to 30 million
gallons of clean water daily.

Adding this amount of new water to the current system is significant, as CCW (Corpus Christi Water) is
responsible for supplying water to more than 500,000 people in seven counties in the Coastal Bend. The city’s
existing sources of water – the Nueces, Lavaca Navidad and Colorado rivers and related reservoirs – will
remain important, but the addition of a high-capacity desalination plant that consistently generates millions of
gallons of clean, drinkable water will positively counteract the impacts that droughts are having on the system.
It should also be emphasized that the Inner Harbor Seawater Desalination Treatment Plant will be a much
needed second water treatment plant. The entire region depends on one water treatment plant, which was
constructed in 1954 and had one additional treatment module added in 1981. While this facility continues to
operate well, it is time for the Region to add a second facility that provides a completely new and drought-
proof water supply.

The stakes are high, but much thought and research has gone into the process, which is nearly 20 years in the
making. Besides adding much-needed water to the local supply, the new desalination plant will be fully
integrated into the city’s existing infrastructure and regional system, as well as lead to improvements in the
local power grid and create an estimated 3,500 construction-related jobs.
This is all being done in a fiscally responsible, sustainable way that ensures we have a resilient water supply for
years to come. Great care is also being taken to be environmentally responsible. In short, we are utilizing
science and data to make sure the project is safe for sea life and will have minimal impact on our existing
waterways.

Bottom line, seawater desalination is a sustainable and responsible solution that not only helps us meet the
city’s current and future demands for water, but it also provides a reliable, cost-effective and drought-proof

source of water for years to come using technology that is currently being used worldwide by many other
communities. To learn more about this important project, visit www.desal.cctexas.com.

Filed Under: Better Business Bureau, Corpus Christ Real Estate Data, corpus christi, Corpus Christi Foreclosures, Holiday Parties, Hurricane Aide, Local Food, Mortgages, mustang island, North Padre Island, North Padre Real Estate, Padre Island Business Association, padre island events, port aransas, Whitecap Development Project, Whitecap NPI, windstorm insurance

La Posada – Toys For Tots

December 15, 2023 By

With the holidays in full swing, it’s the perfect time for the residents of the
Coastal Bend to join together to assist those less fortunate. In the spirit of the holidays, I
wanted to take this opportunity to bring attention to certain efforts in our area that will
benefit many families this holiday season.

Toys for Tots is a nationwide campaign and has very strong roots and
participation in Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, Rockport-Fulton, and the Coastal Bend
area. The initiative began in 1947, when Marine Major Bill Hendricks collected and
donated 5,000 toys to children in their city. The campaign was so successful that Marine
Reserve Units around the country began collecting and donating toys, under the shared
objective to “bring the joy of Christmas to America’s needy children.” Since its inception
in 1947, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program has distributed over 452
million toys to more than 209 million needy children across the country. Events are held
around the area to promote the Toys for Tots holiday drive effort from the public, along
with Marines from the local Naval Air Station who collect donations. With a great
military base, strong charity presence and generous-minded people and industry, District
32 is a great place for Toys for Tots to contribute to the children of our area. If you would

like to learn more or get additional info, please visit their website at: https://corpus-
christi-tx.toysfortots.org/local-coordinator-sites/lco-sites/default.aspx
In addition to this great organization, there are many other charitable events in
the area occurring this holiday season. To find volunteer opportunities, you can look at
Feeding Texas’s website https://www.feedingtexas.org/get-help/. As we prepare for the
holiday season, let’s join together in helping the community and bettering the lives of
those around us.

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. Please always feel
free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state
agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. 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 Aransas County and part of Nueces County. He can be contacted
at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672.

Filed Under: Barefoot Mardi Gras, BeachWalk Development, buying a home, chamber of commerce, Charities, Holiday Parties, home maintenance, Local Food, Local Schools, mustang island, New Homes Padre Island, Packery Channel, Padre Island Business Association, padre island events, Padre Isles POA, Park Road 22 Proposed Bridge, port aransas, realtors, Restaurants

Happy Easter 2023

April 6, 2023 By

As Easter is upon us, it is a time for reflection and renewal. At Coastline Properties would like to take a moment to wish all of our valued clients and their families a very Happy Easter!

The Easter holiday holds special significance for many of us. It is a time to celebrate the promise of new beginnings, to reflect on the blessings in our lives, and to spend time with loved ones.

In the spirit of the season, we want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of our clients for entrusting us with their real estate needs. We feel privileged to be a part of your home buying and selling journey, and we look forward to continuing to serve you in the years to come.

We also recognize that the past year has been challenging for many of us, and we want to express our gratitude for your continued support and trust in our team. We are committed to providing the highest level of service, expertise, and guidance to help you achieve your real estate goals, no matter what challenges may arise.

As we celebrate this joyous occasion, we hope that you and your loved ones enjoy a wonderful Easter filled with love, laughter, and the promise of new beginnings. May the beauty and hope of the season bring you peace, happiness, and many blessings.

Thank you again for choosing Coastline Properties as your trusted partner in all of your real estate endeavors. We wish you all a Happy Easter!

Filed Under: Holiday Parties, Local Food, padre island events, realtors, Restaurants, spring break, spring cleaning

BBB Tip: How to avoid purchasing fake tickets to events

December 5, 2022 By

As another Texas summer with record-breaking heat ends and the beginning of the Fall
season approaches, many people will be looking to get out and enjoy themselves at various
events across the state. Residents may be planning on watching their favorite sports team
compete this season or attending a concert featuring a famous musician. With the prices of
tickets to major events increasing and the ever-present threat of con artists capitalizing on
marketplace trends, BBB recommends consumers exercise caution when searching for and
purchasing tickets to their next event.

While most people know to be careful when purchasing tickets off a third-party website or
reseller, recent reports to BBB Scam Tracker show a concerning trend of scammers
disguising themselves as reputable ticket sellers when interacting with the victim. These
schemes often leverage the credibility of companies such as Ticketmaster to convince
victims to provide payment for tickets that are either fake, for the wrong event or priced
significantly higher than the going rate. Some may also advertise discounted tickets for
high-priced seats or sections, which turns out to be false once the tickets are received, or
the purchaser arrives at the venue.

In many worst-case scenarios, a consumer who is provided a fake ticket plans an entire
weekend around the event, including travel costs and a hotel room, only to be turned away
at the entrance. Victims may also find that the credit or debit card used to pay for the
tickets has a series of charges they do not recognize, resulting in them having to cancel the
card and dispute those transactions with their bank to varying degrees of success.
To help prevent fraudulent sellers from interrupting your event plans, Better Business
Bureau provides the following tips:

 Purchase directly from the venue whenever possible. Many consumers
automatically go to a secondary resale market to purchase tickets for an upcoming
event before first checking with the venue. Going directly to the venue may not only
save money but is also a way to ensure that a purchase is for a valid ticket. Venues
also often include what secondary resale organization they are listing their tickets on,
giving consumers an additional layer of protection from purchasing fake tickets.

 Consider your source. There is a significant difference between purchasing a ticket
from a professional ticket broker and a ticket scalper. While dealing with the latter
may result in obtaining valid tickets, the risk of encountering a scammer is
significantly greater. Always exercise caution when purchasing from sources that are
not members of the National Association of Ticket Brokers (NATB) or Better Business
Bureau.

 Research the seller/broker. Brokers who are members of NATB offer a 200%
purchase guarantee on tickets, protecting consumers that use their services.
Visit NATB.org to confirm you are interacting with a NATB-member resale company.

 Check for website encryption. It is good practice to always check for the lock
symbol in the website address, indicating a secured system is enabled on the site.
BBB strongly recommends against giving any banking information to websites that
are not secured.

 Know the refund policy. Only purchase tickets from a ticket reseller that clearly
details the purchase terms. Avoid sellers who do not disclose where the seats are located or where purchasers can pick up tickets. If the deal seems “too good to be
true,” trust your instincts and thoroughly investigate the seller before purchasing
tickets.

 Use protected payment options. Debit or gift cards, mobile banking apps and
cash transactions are risky due to difficulties recovering money if the tickets are
fake. BBB recommends using credit cards for all online purchases due to the
additional protections they offer consumers to obtain a refund.

 Verify tickets. If you doubt the authenticity of a purchased ticket, present it to the
“Will Call” or customer service center of the event venue. They will inform you if it is
legitimate or explain how a legitimate ticket for their venue should look.

If you have been a victim of a fake ticket scam, report it to BBB Scam Tracker. Information
provided could prevent another person from falling victim.
For more information about ticket scams, visit BBB.org.

Filed Under: Better Business Bureau, chamber of commerce, Charities, Corpus Christi Foreclosures, cybersecurity, home maintenance, Investment Property, Local Food, property taxes, realtors, Retail Tax

Top workplace trends for 2022

February 25, 2022 By

BBB Business Tip: 

Small business owners understand better than anyone the impact that COVID-19 has had on the daily workplace. In an instant, millions of jobs went remote in 2020, and remote working continued to be the norm in 2021. When offices and businesses began to reopen, the Great Resignation of 2021 occurred. Many employees chose to remain at home or move to new cities, leaving business owners to fill in the gaps as best as possible.

So, what will 2022 bring to the workplace? Here are some of the trends that are expected to define the daily workplace in the coming year and beyond.

Hybrid or remote work

Even though many Americans have been vaccinated against COVID-19, many businesses continue with a remote or hybrid approach to work whenever possible. According to WeWork, approximately four out of five C-suite executives approve of employees splitting time between the office and remote work, and for a good reason. Location-agnostic work has allowed employees greater freedom and control when balancing multiple responsibilities. Remote work means saving money on overhead costs for business owners, from office space to coffee supplies.

With the stress of the pandemic and a high rate of burnout wearing on the workforce, some companies may let their employees continue to log in from home in 2022. Others may experiment with a hybrid framework that brings workers into the office a couple of days a week.

Focus on centralized communication

Work teams are now distributed across different time zones and continents, making centralized communication essential. With instant messaging, email and other forms of communication popping up all day, some workers may be experiencing communication overload. Focusing on centralized communication can cut through the noise and increase productivity.

A survey by ReportLinker shows that workers feel pressured to respond to instant messaging, which disrupts their workflow. When instant messaging became the primary way to communicate at work, this pressure became even more apparent. Centralized communication through email or more sophisticated software and video tools can resolve this conflict.

According to a recent McKinsey report, connected employees experience a 20-25% increase in productivity, which is done through the implementation of social tools that enhance communication and collaboration.

Prioritizing workplace wellbeing

It’s hard to define workplace wellbeing when many employees work remotely. Now, the kitchen table often doubles as an office place. Sitting in uncomfortable furniture, extending work hours and removing the boundary between work and home can place undue stress on workers’ personal and professional lives.

Addressing workplace wellness in your small business includes keeping workers comfortable and productive while working remotely. It also involves enforcing the importance of work-life balance.

A 2021 Wellable Employee Wellness Industry Trends Report reveals that 88% of employers invest more in mental health initiatives. The survey also enumerates other ways companies are investing in workplace wellness, whether that workplace is a home, an office or a retail store:

  • Telemedicine – 87% of employers
  • Stress management/resilience – 81% of employers
  • Meditation and mindfulness – 69% of employers

These results indicate that employers have recognized the need to support employees in traditional workplaces and their homes. Workplace wellness will remain critical in 2022, and watch for more programs geared towards wellness and how it relates to recruitment and retention to emerge in the coming years.

Hyperfocus on employee retention

As a business owner, you are likely wondering if the Great Resignation will continue in 2022. To keep their employees on board, many companies are focusing more on retention efforts. These efforts are essential, as 73% of surveyed workers were considering quitting their jobs, according to Joblist, underlining the importance of understanding what motivates workers and how to keep them satisfied to avoid losing them to the competition.

Some ways companies can revitalize their retention strategies include:

  • Implement or continue using performance reviews to give and solicit feedback
  • Implement career development strategies, including succession plans for employees looking to grow in their current role
  • Encourage employees to take time off to recharge

Human resources personnel and small business owners can also directly ask employees what would make their work or workplace more inviting.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives are more critical than ever, with approximately 79% of companies planning to increase their DEI budgets in 2022, per a Traliant report. Companies that emphasize inclusivity and innovation make every employee feel respected and valued. According to a recent Glassdoor survey, 76% of job searchers want diversity in the workplace.

Inclusivity efforts may require you to honestly assess where your organization currently stands. Then, you can create a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace that your current and future workers will value.

Keep up with current trends with help from BBB

Keeping workers productive and healthy in the office, warehouse, or at home is just one of the ways small businesses can keep up with the latest trends in 2022. Furthermore, businesses can prevent communication overload by centralizing communication, and they can improve employee retention by providing clear career development paths. Following these trends can improve morale and help small businesses recruit new team members in the coming year.

In addition to following these workplace trends in 2022, it’s also helpful to understand the trends that will drive small business growth in the coming year and beyond.

For more business tips to make the most out of 2022, visit BBB.org/SmallBusiness.

Filed Under: Better Business Bureau, chamber of commerce, corpus christi business, corpus christi jobs, Local Food, Packery Channel, Restaurants, Scam Alert, spring break

Common Holiday Scams

November 19, 2020 By

BBB Column

The holiday season is here! Although the pandemic will certainly change how we prepare, consumers are still planning to shop and celebrate. Unfortunately, scammers are also ready for the holidays. With your mind on finding the perfect gifts and best deals, they hope you won’t be watching for fraud. Use these tips from your Better Business Bureau to avoid common holiday scams this year:

Seasonal employment scams.

Many companies and industries hire extra employees during the holidays to help with increased business. This is a perfect opportunity for scammers to put out fake help wanted ads. Use these tips to stay safe while looking for seasonal job opportunities:

  • Know the signs. Being aware of the red flags of employment scams can help you avoid them. Employers asking for upfront payment for a job, job offers without interviews and big money for small jobs are all major signs of employment scams.
  • Don’t work before you’re hired. A legitimate company will not ask you to begin a project before hiring you. Before starting any work, ask for an offer letter or for confirmation in writing. This should include details about the job and compensation.

Hot Toy Scams

Each year, a few toys are more popular than the rest, and when they begin to sell out in stores, parents look elsewhere to find them. They might find a legitimate-looking website that claims to have them, maybe even on sale! Unfortunately, after purchasing the toy, it never arrives, and they discover the website and offers were fake. These tips can keep your wallet safe when searching for this year’s hot toys:

  • Buy from reputable retailers. Buying directly from stores, in-person and online, that you know and trust is the best way to avoid being scammed. You can go to their business profile on bbb.org to find their rating and customer reviews. Also, be sure their website has valid customer service information.
  • Watch for extra-low prices. Unreasonably low prices and discounts are often red flags of a scam. Remember, if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Delivery Scams

Delivery scams and package theft can take several forms. They may be phishing emails from scammers posing as the delivery company, or fake “missed delivery” tags, which attempt to get your personal information. Some consumers find that packages are stolen off their doorstep before they arrive home from work. To avoid these situations, use these tips:

  • Take precautions. If you are having a fragile or valuable item delivered, purchase shipping insurance. You can also track packages, or request that a signature be required for the package to be delivered.
  • Watch for emails about missed deliveries. Most legitimate delivery services leave a missed delivery notice on your door. An email could be a phishing scam.

Have safe and happy holidays, from everyone at BBB serving the Heart of Texas!

 

Filed Under: chamber of commerce, Charities, Holiday Parties, Local Food, Scam Alert

Home Fire Prevention and Safety Tips

August 22, 2020 By

As one of the nation’s leading disaster relief organizations, the American Red Cross responds to thousands of disasters each year. While many might associate the organization’s outreach efforts with major catastrophic events such as hurricanes and wildfires, the American Red Cross reports that home fires represent approximately 90 percent of its disaster response efforts. In fact, home fires represent one of the biggest disaster threats to families in the United States. Fires kill more Americans each year than all-natural disasters combined, and affect people from all backgrounds and geographic locations. Given these startling statistics, the American Red Cross suggests tips, aimed at reducing deaths and injuries resulting from home fires by 25%. As such, I would like to share some simple steps you can take to protect your family and home in the event of a home fire.

The American Red Cross has created a Home Fire Campaign to help families prepare for a home fire. The American Red Cross recommends taking the following steps in protecting your home:

  • Install the right number of smoke alarms. Test them once a month and replace the batteries at least once a year. Purchase smoke alarms here.
  • Teach children what smoke alarms sound like and what to do when they hear one.
  • Ensure that all household members know two ways to escape from every room of your home and know the family meeting spot outside of your home
  • Establish a family emergency communications plan and ensure that all household members know who to contact if they cannot find one another.
  • Practice escaping from your home at least twice a year. Press the smoke alarm test button or yell “Fire” to alert everyone that they must get out.
  • Make sure everyone knows how to call 9-1-1.
  • Teach household members to STOP, DROP and ROLL if their clothes should catch on fire

Also, it is important to develop and practice home fire escape plans with your family. If you need help in developing your unique plan, the American Red Cross has made fire escape plan worksheets available on its website https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire/home-fire-preparedness.html.

It is important to check fire alarms every month to make certain they are working properly in the event of a fire and the batteries do not need to be replaced. When smoke alarms fail to operate correctly, it is generally due to missing, disconnected or depleted batteries. It is important to note smoke alarms should be replaced every 10 years from the manufacturer’s date listed on the back of the alarm. According to the National Fire Protection Association, three out of five home fire deaths occur in homes where there is no smoke alarm or no working smoke alarm, which is why this is so important.

In addition to following the American Red Cross’ tips to plan for fire safety, I would encourage you to take the time to read more information about the different ways you can protect your home from a fire. This includes keeping flammable objects a safe distance from items that get hot, such as heaters and stoves, never leaving a candle unattended, and learning about safe cooking methods. To read more about the different ways you can protect your home and family from fires, please visit the American Red Cross website https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/fire.html. The National Fire Protection Association also has information on fire, electrical and related hazards at https://www.nfpa.org/.

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.  Please always feel free to contact my office if you have any questions or issues regarding a Texas state agency, or if you would like to contact my office regarding constituent services. 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 todd.hunter@house.texas.gov or at 512-463-0672. 

Filed Under: chamber of commerce, Charities, Corpus Christ Real Estate Data, home maintenance, Local Food, property taxes, Todd Hunter

31st TASTE OF THE ISLAND 2019

October 4, 2019 By

tasteoftheisland

>> GET YOUR TASTE OF THE ISLAND TICKETS HERE >>

Come to eat. Come to see and be seen. Combine the two and you’ll be seen stuffing your face. But it’s completely acceptable when you’re not alone! Over 1000 attendees are expected to be doing the same thing at the 31st annual Taste of the Island, where some of our best restaurant’s fare is being featured at the event on October 23rd, beginning at 6 pm, at the Waves Resort on Padre Island.

Don’t get out much? Now is your excuse to take a tasty tour of many of the restaurants perhaps you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t had the chance to! Aside from roughly 20 restaurants, there will also be cash bars open and live musical entertainment.

The party lasts until 9pm, as you’ll run into your friends, co-workers, friends of friends, and all the new friends you’ll make! And, if you stick around until the end, there are goodies to win! A silent auction throughout the evening will have roughly 40 items to bid on. So don’t forget to put your business card into the drawing. Win wine, gift certificates, island trinkets, and lots of other prizes that local businesses have been generous enough to donate will be given out to the lucky winners!

Meagan Furey, President for the PIBA, who is spearheading the volunteer committee, explains that “We expect more people than ever before to come, which means we need more volunteers than ever to help out! It’s going to be an incredible event that just gets bigger and more popular each year.”

As an attendee of the event last year, Tara Gallaspy, Coastline Properties Real Estate Agent, says “It was one of my favorite events of the year. The music was upbeat and fun, there was plenty of seating, and I ran into lots of friends. It’s the perfect venue and a great evening on the beach. Overall, a night to remember!”

Get your tickets a head of time! They are $35.00 a piece, and then it’s up to you to eat your money’s worth! Leaving hungry would simply be disgraceful.

Get Tickets Here >>

Filed Under: corpus christi business, Local Food, North Padre Island, Padre Island Business Association, Restaurants

Barefoot Mardi Gras 2019

February 10, 2019 By

 

mardigras2019

We are Proud to once again be Major Sponsors for the 10th Annual Barefoot Mardi Gras .  Its going to be spectacular this year, sure to bring a very festive environment as we all celebrate together for a great cause!

A Family Parade will take place along the beach off Park Road 22 between Whitecap Blvd and Bob Hall Pier. Parade starts at 11am. The Parade Judges Float will open the parade followed a few minutes later by color guard and Mardi Gras themed floats in different divisions like Float, Jeep and Golf Cart. Many colorful characters enter the parade making it a unique activity for friends and family.

Events:

Barefoot Mardi Gras Parade

March 2, 2019
Begins at 11:00 am

Floats and fun for the whole family! The parade starts at Whitecap Beach and runs along Padre Island to the Briscoe King Pavilion near Bob Hall Pier.

Register now for the parade

Barefoot Mardi Gras Festival

March 2, 2019
11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Cajun Music, food & fun for all ages! The festival is located at the Briscoe King Pavillion in Bali Park on Padre Island and features live music, artists, car displays, exhibitors, a children’s area, food, drink and more!
Admission is $5.00 paid at the door. Cash Only.

King & Queens Ball

March 2, 2019
7:30 pm – 12:00 am

An adult-themed Party, The King & Queens Ball, will let the good times roll on the evening of March 2nd from 7:30pm – Midnight at the Briscoe King Pavillion. Leave the kids at home & Let the Good Times Roll as we transform the festival into the streets of New Orleans!
Ball Ticket includes traditional shrimp boil fixins from Rollin’ Tide Boil Company and a coffee and king cake station! Dance in high heels, flip flops, or barefoot to the blues rock New Orleans style music of Splendiferous. Costumes encouraged! Put on your royal beads and feathers ‘cause we will be crowning our new 2019 Barefoot Mardi Gras King & Queen! Plus, enjoy face painting as only the Cajuns can, a cigar bar, crooning saxophones, and much more! Patrons must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the door and available at various locations.

FOR MORE INFO and To Get TICKETS to the KING & QUEENS BALL Click Here Barefoot Mardi Gras 2019

Filed Under: Charities, corpus christi, Holiday Parties, Local Food, North Padre Island, Padre Island Business Association

Dine Island

April 28, 2018 By

dineisland

Here on the Island, we all speak one common language, and that is FOOD! It’s something that since the beginning of time has brought people together – we have holidays for food, special rooms in our home for making food and eating food, and food is a very universal topic of conversation.

For those of you who are familiar (or, rather, unfamiliar) with Dine Downtown, this event, hosted by Marina Arts, went on last year in January. It featured some of Corpus Christi’s best restaurants who were able to offer a three course value-priced menu. Residents bought tickets, dined, had a wonderful time, and were able to check out local eateries they may not have been to prior.

It was such a huge success, that Island resident, Debbie Noble, is bringing this concept right to our front doors! But her model is slightly different.

Sponsored by the Padre Island Business Association and the Padre Island Moon, Noble is bringing us together to break bread. This is the first restaurant-type event the Island has ever seen. Restaurants all over the Island have signed up to offer unique three-course dining experience at value price. This does not include beverages, tips and taxes.

The idea is to get both Island residents to try the local fare they haven’t yet made it out to, and to also encourage non islanders from all over the Coastal Bend to come see how special our restaurants are!

“We are so excited to show off our great Island restaurants to the rest of the city and give people a reason to come OTB,” Noble exclaims!

Restaurant Week Dining Event on Padre Island!
May 2-16, 2018

1) Check out the enticing menus
2) Plan where to dine (as many days as you want!)
3) Enjoy a delicious 3 course meal for a value price
4) $1 for each Dine Island meal goes to the Corpus Christi Food Bank

FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE WITH MENUS> https://www.facebook.com/DineIsland/

Try out a new restaurant or visit an old favorite on the Island. Help yourself, help the restaurants, help the food bank! Come over the bridge and try out the amazing restaurants. #DineIsland2018

Coastline Properties has also graciously offered to match the money from the restaurant that does the most dine island meals. “Cheri Sperling is an instrumental member of the community and wanted to get involved as well,” Noble says.

Mark your calendars, and get ready for two weeks of marathon meals! The hope is to make this an annual event, so mangia!

 

Filed Under: corpus christi business, Local Food, North Padre Island, North Padre Island Beaches, Padre Island Business Association, Restaurants, Upper Padre Tagged With: , ,

New Grocery Store Coming to North Padre Island

August 24, 2017 By

When Mohsin and Lori Rasheed moved to Padre Island three years ago their plan was to retire and take things easy. But that plan has taken a detour as last week Lori purchased a franchise from the Independent Grocers’ Alliance (IGA) and are moving forward to have a grocery store open on Padre Island in the next nine months.

“Every time we asked people what we should put in the shopping center we are building they always said, a grocery store,” Mohsin  said this week. “We are part of the Island community now and Padre Island wants and needs a grocery store, so we are going to build one.”

The Rasheeds have been married for 39 years with three kids and during that time have built, owned, and operated restaurants and shopping malls in Sacramento, where they owned 38 restaurants, and Houston where in the last fourteen years they have built 18 shopping centers, three of which they still own. The center they are building on Padre Island is located adjacent to Seashore Middle School along SPID, where the earthwork is currently underway. As designed it will have a total of 33,500 square feet, with the grocery store occupying 18,000 square feet and another 6000 square feet to be a restaurant, with a tenant yet to be determined. There are also eight retail spaces.

They were nearing a final agreement with the Sprouts chain until a few weeks ago when Amazon announced its purchase of the Austin-based Whole Foods Chain.

“Everything in the grocery business just came to a stop after that,” Mohsin said. “There is no movement in that business right now. So Lori just decided to buy an IGA franchise and we will do it ourselves.”

Each IGA store is its own franchise and the local owner decides what to stock.

“With 18,000 square feet we won’t have ten kinds of ketchup,” Lori said. “We will only have a few and we want to know from Island residents what brands and items we should stock. We will stick strictly to groceries, we won’t be competing with CVS or other existing stores, we are only going to sell groceries.”

Plans call for 32 parking spaces along the south edge of the center’s parking lot for parents picking up kids at the middle school.

“I know there has been talk of a grocery store on Padre Island for a long time,” Mohsin said. “But this is going to happen.”

With permitting and funding in place, it looks like after decades of wishing, Islanders are about to have a place to buy groceries without having to go OTB.

“This is going to be a first-class operation,” Mohsin said. “We are going to do this in a way that Padre Island will be proud of.”

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Story from Island Moon Newspaper

Filed Under: Local Food, North Padre Island, Padre Island Business Association, Restaurants, Upper Padre

Corpus Christi Chambers to Unite

February 7, 2016 By

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Officials for the Corpus Christi and Hispanic chambers of commerce say their historic merger should wrap up in the next few weeks, and that they are just days from unveiling the new organization’s name.

A transition team consisting of members from each chamber’s board took less than a month to unify the groups and agree on a name for the new chamber.

The team is expected to notify the two boards of its recommendation in coming days. The name will be made public after they’ve voted on it, perhaps as early as the beginning of February, Alan Wilson, chairman of the Corpus Christi chamber, told the Caller-Times on Thursday.

Other details, including memberships and drafting bylaws, are being worked out but appear to be on pace for completion by the end of March, Wilson said.

“Everyone has been on board with making sure this (merger) is something positive for the entire region, for the entire community,” said Rosie Gonzalez Collin, chair of the Hispanic chamber.

Members of the chambers voted overwhelmingly Dec. 29 to unite their organizations. Supporters have said the move was necessary to eliminate overlap in membership and to keep Corpus Christi’s business landscape in line with the region’s energy and job growth.

The two chambers haven’t wasted time preparing for the unification since.

Executive board members of each group have met with Annette Medlin, who recently was named president and CEO of the Corpus Christi chamber. The Hispanic chamber is planning an official welcome ceremony for Medlin during its Feb. 25 “Mi Casa es Su Casa” women’s mixer.

Medlin fills a vacancy left by Foster Edwards, who retired.

Earlier this month, the Hispanic chamber announced Gilda Ramirez would remain its interim president, while taking on a full-time role as its vice president of small business, international outreach and education affairs. Ramirez is expected to work on staff of the new chamber once the transition is finished.

Twitter: @Caller_ChrisRam via Caller Times

Filed Under: chamber of commerce, corpus christi, corpus christi business, corpus christi jobs, hispanic chamber of commerce, Local Food

New Restaurant “Island Time Sushi” gets rave reviews!

September 4, 2014 By

 

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Who loves sushi? Have you tried the new sushi restaurant on the Island yet? If not, get over there!

Island Time Sushi has a great atmosphere, friendly staff and amazing food! The sushi is fresh and FUN…plus they offer many cooked options as well! Try the Chargrilled Steak or Grilled Salmon then add a side of Jalapeno Bacon Mac&Cheese.

My favorite rolls were the Shaggy Dog and the Rattlesnake Roll shown in the photo. The Spicy Poke and Creamy Seaweed Salad were the perfect starters!

Support our Island! Eat Local!

You can find their info here: http://www.facebook.com/IslandTimeSushi

Filed Under: Local Food, North Padre Island, Restaurants, Upper Padre Island Tagged With: , , , ,

Retail Spending in Real Time

July 1, 2014 By

 

Look at the data in Real Time per second, of how we are consuming products…It’s Astounding!

Filed Under: Local Food, Restaurants

Top Restaurant Picks for “The Island”

February 4, 2012 By

North Padre Island’s proximity to the Gulf Coast is often cited as one of the reasons for moving. The affordable homes, mild temperatures, local school choices and active lifestyles are just a few of the reasons why more families are choosing “The Island” as their full-time home.

Dining choices on North Padre Island and the surrounding communities are just as pleasing, with something sure to please everyone. Here are a few of our favorites:

Dragonfly – Dragonfly would certainly be right at home on any street in the South of France. Locals and visitors to Upper Padre Island alike are delighted that Chef Dominique and his staff offer fresh, local cuisine with a decidedly International flair. Try the Tomato Basil Soup or any of the salads – they’re well-loved favorites and don’t skip the Creme Brulee for dessert. Hours vary depending on the season and specials change daily – but they’re always amazing.

Curacao Blues – Dragonfly’s little sister is all grown up. Serving tapas (small plates) of similarly prepared deliciousness, Curacao Blues also offers an eclectic beer and wine selection, and added “family-style” seating.

Snoopy’s – The local fresh-fish joint. Counter service and cash-only make this place an efficient haven for great fish and chips, oysters, shrimp and sides. It needs to be efficient – it’s very often the busiest place on the Island, with the best view of the sunset over the Laguna Madre. Everything is battered and cooked to order so be prepared for a short wait, but it’s definitely worth it. In the summer be sure to visit “Scoopy’s” next door for ice cream!

Doc’s – Next door to Snoopy’s is the fine dining choice, Doc’s. A full bar, weekend entertainment, hand-cut steaks and innovative seafood selections keep Doc’s patrons coming back week after week. Try the stuffed flounder – trust us, you’ll have enough for the next day’s lunch, and the freshly prepared and never frozen seafood stuffing is sublime.

Padre Pizzeria – Islanders know that they’ve got it pretty great when it comes to pizza. Locally owned Padre Pizzeria is gourmet pizza through and through. Hand tossed crust, fresh ingredients, perfect spices… and they deliver, too! Nothing beats an Amore Roma, with a caesar salad after the long 15 minute commute home from work.

Sushi Bar – We all wondered if Islanders would embrace a gorgeous, upscale sushi bar here on Upper Padre Island – after all, being a fishing village of sorts, most of us think of sushi as bait! We’re all delighted that Sushi Bar is now world-famous for the freshest, most flavorful rolls, as well as the perfect presentation and taste – and we’re proud that they’ve help put Upper Padre Island on the culinary map.

North Padre Island offers locals and visitors a wide variety of dining choices – these are just a few of our favorites. If you have a favorite tell us about it in the comments!

Writer: Chelle Honiker-Yarbrough

 

Filed Under: Local Food, North Padre Island Beaches, Restaurants