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News from the Past   

Prior Years
Select the year for archived news from 2004.
 

News and Events from 2005

January 2005
South Padre Blood Drive
Polar Bear’s Enjoy Blue Sky
Cold Weather Could Strand Sea Turtles
New Committee to be Created
Christmas Grant for South Padre Island
Welcome: The Shores
Firefighter Testing January 2005
Public Opinion Survey - Medical-Healthcare Facilities
Beaches to be Nourished
February 2005
Notice of February Bond Election
241 Residents Cast Early Votes on New City Hall
Beach Project Complete
Beachcomber - February Newsletter
Notice of Public Auction  
Bond Election Passes
Winter Texan Fish Fry  
Eighth Annual Winter Texan Beach Cleanup
Sea Turtle Identification  
Nelessen-Public Presentation and Discussion 
March
2005
Firefighter Testing Feb. 28th.
Mayor Pinkerton Dedicates Arbor Month Tree
Farewell, Judge Tenison
Application Deadline - March 7th.
Renowned “Turtle Lady”, Ila Loetscher, selected to Walk of Fame
Town Committees Needs Members 
SPI Sponsored Racing - March 18th.
Spring Break is here.....
SPI Code Enforcement Officer’s Earn Additional Credentials
Heimlich Posters Available  
Friday Night Fireworks
Lower Laguna Madre Coastal Clean Up & Restoration
April
2005
SPITS Receives Donation for Skateboard Park
Mayor Welcomes Marines
Town Appoints New Committee Members 
Board of Alderman Hopefuls Draw for Places on the Ballot
Golden Knights Honor SPI City Officials
SPI Sponsored NASCAR Truck Races This Saturday
New Beach Access Nears Completion
South Padre Island wins lawsuit
Rio Transit Connects South Padre Island to Brownsville
RFQ FOR PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES 
MEET SPI NASCAR CRAFTSMAN DRIVER STEVE PARK
Steve Park Visits SPI
South Padre Island’s “Outdoors” Attracts Travel Writers
Free Local Guide to Growing Trees Available
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Spring Cleanup
Aldermen Proclaim April 2005 “Ila Loetscher Month”
Team SPI is Honored by SPI Board of Aldermen
Steve Park Races Saturday, April 30th
May
2005
Texas Adopt-A-Beach Spring Cleanup
Board of Aldermen Election Saturday, May 7th
Park Finishes 13th at Dodge Ram Tough 200
Success Center Kids Put In “Sweat Equity”
SPI Aldermen Approve 2004 Financial Audit
UNOFFICIAL TABULATION OF PRECINCT 52 AND EARLY VOTING RESULTS
Landfill Taskforce to Organize
Steve Park Races Sunday, May 15th.
Convention Centre Opens ‘Corridor Gallery’
Lefty Moves to New Jersey
SPI Town Hall Meetings
Local and Regional Healthcare 
Regards/Congratulations
Quaker Steak & Lube 200
Lower Rio Grande Valley Power Squadron
SPI Emergency & Medical Services Public Information Seminar
Summer Fireworks Tradition
Memorial Day Holiday
ALL RESIDENTS OF SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
SPI BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT
June 2005
2005 Hurricane Season Outlook
Members Needed For Taskforce
FREE Public Health Information And Educational Workshop/FREE lung Tests
SPI’s Park Races This Friday At Texas Motor Speedway
Former Alderman Ghilain Passes Away
Sea Turtle Release To Celebrate “World Ocean Day,” June 8th
Red Cross Blood Drive
National Men's Health Week
Fire Chief Clifford Rowell Marks 20 Years With SPI
Time Warner Cable To Host Reception on June 30

July
2005
Enjoy Fireworks Over the Bay! 
SPI Chamber Ribbon Cutting/Mixer with TIME WARNER CABLE
SPI Public Works Jumps On Drainage Projects
South Padre Island Receives Top Restored Beach Award
Hurricane Cleanup
Dust Cloud May Approach SPI
Healthcare Survey
Cameron County Puts Landfill Information On Their Website
24th Annual Ladies Kingfish Tournament 
Street Paving Project Complete

August
2005
Town’s 2005-2006 Budget Underway
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Duel of The Dunes
Upcoming Town of South Padre Island Committee Appointments
SPI School District Committee Created
Southwest Airlines Lists SPI as Featured Destination
Notice of Vote on Tax Rate
Special Election - September 10


September
2005
Adopt-A-Beach Fall Cleanup
Special Election - Results
Oh Boy! Oberto Redfish Cup and Redfish Festival
Red Tide Levels Increase

SPI Beaches Closed
Keep an Eye on the Storm

SPI Beaches Reopened

October
2005
Third Annual Cancer Walk For Women
Red Tide in Extreme Levels
CVB-Proposed Reorganization
Bay Cleanup Effort Seeks Volunteers

Use Candles with Care
Red Tide - Levels Continue to Drop
SPI to Race in Atlanta
SPI Says Goodbye to Red Tide
A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood


November
2005
Nov. 8 - Texas Election Day
Singing, Sandcastles, Specials and more......
Holiday Parade 2005

Emergency Brochures

December
2005
Toys For Tots
Santa Claus Weekend Draws Crowds
Board of Aldermen Meeting Rescheduled
Christmas Carols Sung by Garriga Elementary
Polar Bear Dip - Jan. 1
Alice and Jerry Hanson Day
Happy Holidays
 
 

Red Cross Blood Drive Successful

 

According to Mr. Jeff  Noto, of the American Red Cross, the January 17th Blood Drive at the Club Padre was a success. 25 people signed in, 4 were turned away, 1 half pint, and 20 good units were collected. Mr. Noto added,Blood2.jpg (72517 bytes) “We’d love to come out and do it with you guys a couple times a year.” ../Blood.jpg (190178 bytes)

 Pictured are Joe Bailey, from Missouri, with Nurse Nancy Rodriguez, and his wife Sandy with Nurse Valentine Vasquez.
 

Polar Bear’s Enjoy Blue Sky


../PolarBDSC04187.jpg (139665 bytes)After our icy Christmas, the South Padre Island Polar Bear’s enjoyed warm temperatures and blue skies during their annual New Year’s Day dip in the Gulf of Mexico. PolarDSC04186.jpg (151759 bytes)

Approximately 235 Polar Bears took the plunge as dozens of bystanders watched and cheered.

 

 Cold Weather Could Strand Sea Turtles


Jim White with The Coastal Studies Lab at the University of Texas Pan Am has issued an alert for the potential for an increase in sea turtle stranding due to the upcoming cold front event.    More........

  Sea Turtle Update../122504Turtles01.jpg (86214 bytes)

  There are 17 sea turtles receiving supportive care at the Coastal Studies Laboratory. Although cold shocked most are in fairly good shape.    More....

Turtleup.jpg (17935 bytes)Rescued Sea Turtles Released
The UTPA Coastal Studies Laboratory assisted in the release of 18 green sea turtles into the Gulf of Mexico......              Read the full story.....

 

New Committee to be Created


The Board of Aldermen are in the process of creating a new committee.  This committee, the Comprehensive Health Care Clinic Committee will assist the Board in analyzing the need for a year round, 24/7 Health Care facility on South Padre Island. 

If you would like to serve on this very important committee please fill out the application form and submit it to City Secretary, Town of South Padre Island,  4501 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, Texas 78597.

Click here for the application form.....

 

Christmas Grant for South Padre Island


On Wednesday, December 15th, Texas Governor Rick Perry announced a new grant of transportation funds for the Town of South Padre Island that will enable important improvements to Park Road 100/South Padre Boulevard.
Read the full press release.....
 

Welcome: The Shores


Welcome to the Town of South Padre Island!  At their recent monthly meeting the Board of Aldermen finalized annexation of The Shores. 
Read the Mayors Welcome letter...........

 

Firefighter Testing January 2005


The Town of South Padre Island is looking for quality recruits to join our team of professional Firefighters.  The Town offers full-time Firefighters a complete and competitive Compensation Package.

 We currently have 4 positions available.   More......... 

Public Opinion Survey - Medical-Healthcare Facilities


The Board of Aldermen need your input.  The Board is seeking your opinion, via survey, on the need for Medical-Healthcare Facilities on South Padre Island.  Please fill out the survey and bring it to City Hall, 4501 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, Texas 78597. 

Beaches to be Nourished


A Corps of Engineers maintenance dredging project will benefit the beaches of South Padre Island.  Routine channel maintenance of the Brownsville Entrance Channel will provide much needed sand that will be placed on the beaches of South Padre Island.  The project begins Nov. 21 and will be completed around the beginning of January 2005. 

Click here for details....

Click here for pictures of the last channel project in 1997...

IMG_6479.jpg (34204 bytes)Recent aerial photos of the current project show the shipIMG_6500.jpg (46896 bytes) channel dredging operation and the resulting beach development.
 


Notice of February Bond Election


The Town of South Padre Island will hold an election between the hours of 7:00am and 7:00pm on Saturday, February 5, 2005, in the Town for the purpose of authorizing the issuance of general obligation bonds for the constructing and equipping a new City Hall Complex.

The polling place for the election is Precinct 52, City Hall, 4501 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, Texas, 78597.

What could the new complex cost?  What facilities will be included in the new complex?  How will a new City Hall help the citizens of South Padre Island?   Please click here and read facts about the new City Hall complex....
Please click here to read the Assessment of Needs for a New City Hall...

For complete election details please read the following documents

Read the Official Resolution calling for the election....
Read the Notice of Bond Election - English version....
Read the Notice of Bond Election - Spanish version....
 

241 Residents Cast Early Votes on New City Hall


Read the latest press release .......

On Thursday, January 20, early voters began voting to issue bonds to construct a new City Hall. No tax rate increase will be needed to support the bonds. The polling place for the election is Precinct 52, City Hall, 4501 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, Texas, 78597.

 All voters are urged to participate in this most important election!

 

Beach Project Complete


A Corps of Engineers maintenance dredging project is complete.  The benefit to the beaches of South Padre Island is recognizable.  Clean-up operations have begun.  Pipe removal should be complete by mid February.
IMG_6500.jpg (46896 bytes)

IMG_6479.jpg (34204 bytes)Recent aerial photos of the current project show the ship channel dredging operation and the resulting beach development.

It is anticipated the next maintenance project will take place in the fall of 2006.

Beachcomber - February Newsletter


The February edition of the Town's newsletter, The Beachcomber is available.

Top story in this edition - Bond Election

Residents of SPI vote in favor
of the construction of a new City Hall.

Read the results......
 

Notice of Public Auction  


On Saturday February 12th, the Town of South Padre Island will hold a Public Auction.  This auction will include vehicles, bicycles, clothing, electronics, furniture and other items of recovered and unclaimed property.   for details........
 

Bond Election Passes


By a voting margin of 302 to 256 the Town of South Padre Island will build a new City Hall.  "...this is an historic day for the future of South Padre Island.", said Mayor Robert N. Pinkerton Jr.  Joyce.jpg (377501 bytes)

City Secretary, Joyce Adams announced the unofficial results of the election.

Read the Mayors comments in the official press release...

Election-judges.jpg (79237 bytes)
Election Judge, Pat Corcoran (seated above) and Election Clerks (seated left to right), Lillian Ware, Cindy Bradford and Alice Adwan.
 

Winter Texan Fish Fry  


On Saturday February 12th, the Winter Texan Fish Fry will be held at Schlitterbahn Beach Waterpark    more.......
 

 Eighth Annual Winter Texan Beach Cleanup 

 adoptabeach05.jpg (4030 bytes)
The Eighth Annual Winter Texan Beach Cleanup will be held on Feb. 18th.    more.....

 

Sea Turtle Identification  


On February 24th, Mr. Ben Rhame, a Sea Grant Fellow, from the Coastal Resources Program of the General Land Office, will speak to Island residents about Sea Turtle identification. The meeting will take place at Club Padre, 5800 Padre Boulevard, from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. All interested residents are invited to attend.

     For more information.....
 

 Public Presentation and Discussion 


On Thursday, Feb. 24th, at 5:30pm., Anton Nelessen will present and discuss his research on “What Americans Want”.  This free public presentation will be held at the Convention Centre.  A cash bar and hors d’oeuvres will be available.     

On Friday, Feb. 25th, Mr. Nelessen will conduct a 6 hour professional development course on “New Urbanism, the SmartCode and the Visual Preference Survey”.  Participants will receive 6 hrs of Continuing Education Credit for this course. 

More on the Public Presentation……
More on the Professional Development course……
Anton Nelessen biographical data…….
 

Firefighter Testing Feb. 28th.


The Town of South Padre Island (the Town) is looking for quality recruits to join our team of professional Firefighters. Being in a tourist oriented environment and 20 million people crossing the Queen Isabella Causeway annually along with permanent residents make the Town a very unique and diverse place to work.
 For Testing details please read .....
 

 Mayor Pinkerton Dedicates Arbor Month Tree

  Arbor-Day_1.jpg (148768 bytes)
On Friday, February 18th, in celebration of Arbor Month, Mayor Robert (Bob) Pinkerton, Jr. dedicated a Yaupon Pride of Houston tree on the Convention Centre Grounds.   more.....

 

 Farewell, Judge Tenison

 
Robert (Bob) McIntyre Tenison, 77, of South Padre Island, Texas passed away at his home on Tuesday, March 1st.  He was born November 5, 1927 in Dallas, Texas and moved with his family to South Padre Island in 1976.

Bob served as Municipal Court Judge for the Town of South Padre Island from August 21, 1985 to June 15, 1988.

A Memorial service will be held Saturday, March 5th, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 1022 N. Yuma, Port Isabel, Texas, followed by a reception and visitation with the family. Interment will be later in Dallas.

The Mayor, Board of Aldermen and Staff of the Town of South Padre Island join together in wishing our warmest condolences to Bob’s family.

 

Application Deadline - March 7th.


If you are interested in running for a position on the Board of Aldermen the deadline for submitting an Application for Place on Ballot is just around the corner.  Candidate Application Packets must be picked up and returned to City Secretary, Town of South Padre Island, 4501 Padre Blvd., not later than 5:00pm Monday, March 7th.

See the Candidate Election Calendar.....
 

Renowned “Turtle Lady”, Ila Loetscher,
selected to Walk of Fame


Ila Loetscher, the “Turtle Lady” from South Padre Island, has been selected to the inaugural Rio Grande Valley Walk of Fame.

As part of the 2005 BorderFest Salute to the Rio Grande Valley, The City of Hidalgo, BorderFest Association, Hidalgo Chamber of Commerce and City of Hidalgo Texas Municipal Facilities Corporation have decided to create the Rio Grande Valley Walk of Fame at the Dodge Arena.
Read the official press release.....
Read a short biography of Ila Loetscher.......
 

 Town Committees Needs Members 

 
The
Ad Hoc Healthcare Clinic Committee and the Development Plan Review Board need to fill a vacancies.  If you would like to apply for these open positions please download the Committee Application form, fill it in and deliver it to City Secretary, Town of South Padre Island, 4501 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, Texas 78597.
 

SPI Sponsored Racing - March 18th.


Friday, March 18th., South Padre Island sponsored NASCAR Craftsman Truck driver Steve Park,
in his #62 Orleans Dodge, will compete in the World Financial Group 200 race at Atlanta Motor Speedway. www.atlantamotorspeedway.com

Keep up with all of the NASCAR events by following the link at the top of this page.
 

 Spring Break is here.....

 
Spring Break on South Padre Island.  Could you ask for anything more?  Do you know how to get here, what to do while you are here or here to stay?  Check out the South Padre Island
Spring Break Guide at www.springbreak.sopadre.com

 

SPI Code Enforcement Officer’s Earn Additional Credentials


Recently, South Padre Island’s Code Enforcement Officer’s have successfully taken and passed rigorous courses and examinations. Enforcement Officers Edgar Cruz, Gilbert Garza and Cipriano Torres deserve our congratulations and recognition for their hard work. Their contributions to our community are invaluable. Many thanks for all you do guys!    read on........
 

Heimlich Posters Available  


Heimlich.jpg (377575 bytes) Heimlich Maneuver Posters are available at the City Health Department, which is located in the South Padre Island Public Works Office at 4405 Padre Blvd.    more.......
 

Friday Night Fireworks


There will be a low-level fireworks display on the bay front on Friday night April 1st. It will commence between 8-9 p.m. The display is for the Regional Chapter of the International Fairs and Events Association.

 

Lower Laguna Madre Coastal Clean Up & Restoration


coastal_baywatch_colorlogo.jpg (107771 bytes)On April 2nd, The Coastal Baywatch Foundation is sponsoring its Lower Laguna Madre Coastal Clean Up & Restoration. Pre-registered volunteers and dozens of boats will be assigned pick-up quadrants in the Laguna Madre Bay. Clean up will also include marina dives and street ends on Bayside. Tools and bags will be provided. To participate please call the Coastal Baywatch Foundation at 956-761-1663. 

SPITS Receives Donation for Skateboard Park


South Padre Island City Manager Dewey P. Caswell Jr. (L) joins local SPITS.jpg (381994 bytes)skateboarders receiving a $1,500 donation on behalf of SPITS. The donation was given by the Saturn Corporation and will be used towards the construction of a skateboard park on South Padre Island.
 

 Mayor Welcomes Marines

 
Marines.jpg (96695 bytes)Mayor Robert N. Pinkerton, Jr. welcomes members of the 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Division, 4th Battalion to South Padre Island.

 These Marine Officers were involved in the heavy fighting, in and around, the battle for Fallujah, Iraq.   Mayor Pinkerton served in the Marines from 1965-1969 as a S/Sgt.-E6. He was awarded a Silver Star and Purple Heart for his service in Viet Nam.

Pictured (L-R) are Midshipman 1st Class Tyson S. Stahl, 1st Lt. Hoot Stahl, Capt. Sean M. Roche, Mayor Robert N. Pinkerton, Jr., 1st Lt. David C. Lewis, 1st Lt. Chris B. Schickling, and 1st Lt. John F. MacDonald.

 Town Appoints New Committee Members 


On Wednesday, March 16th, The South Padre Island Board of Aldermen appointed two new committee members.

Marvin Herschberg was appointed to the Ad Hoc Healthcare Committee and, Stormy Wall was appointed to the Development Plan Review Board.   Read the full story...

Board of Alderman Hopefuls Draw for Places on the Ballot


Board of Alderman candidates were on hand Wednesday morning at City Hall, to draw for positions on the May 7th Board of Alderman ballot.  more.....
 

Golden Knights Honor SPI City Officials


The United States Army Golden Nights Parachute Team honored South Padre Island Assistant City Manager and Fire Chief Clifford Rowell, andGolden Knights 4.jpg (157850 bytes) Convention & Visitors Bureau Executive Director Dan Quandt.  

Each was presented a baton, passed in flight, in honor ../Dan Quandt  Golden Knights 3.jpg (201863 bytes)of their dedication and service to the community. The Golden Knights performed daily jumps as a part of the United States Army promotion for Spring Break.

 

SPI Sponsored NASCAR Truck Races This Saturday


The Kroger 250 will take place at the Martinsville Speedway, in Martinsville, VA at 1:00 p.m.   more.....
 

New Beach Access Nears Completion


South Padre Island Building Inspector Richard Ehrlich, Public Works Director David Whitehead, and Assistant City Manager/Fire Chief Clifford Rowell (l-r) supervise the paving began today on the Island’s new Gulf Circle Access. Ecocreto.jpg (272464 bytes)

This Beach Access is the first one to be built with Ecocreto, a new porous concrete that allows water to pass into the ground. Ecocreto reduces or even eliminates the need for drainage in streets and parking lots.

The new Beach Access will have 20 new parking spaces and a foot shower.
 

South Padre Island wins lawsuit


Judge voids annexation of land by Port Isabel

A visiting judge ruled in favor of South Padre Island and a family trust Wednesday in the annexation fight with Port Isabel.  Read the full story...
 

 REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES 

 
The Town of South Padre Island, Texas, is seeking professional Project Management Services for the purpose of effectively assisting the Town in the management of the construction of its new Municipal Complex.

Read the RFQ Summary..........
Read the complete RFQ...........

 

Rio Transit Connects South Padre Island to Brownsville


Announcing New Direct Transit Connections Between South Padre Island & Brownsville; the Rio Gulf Coast Shuttle now allows persons to travel directly from South Padre Island to Brownsville, or Brownsville to South Padre Island.
 
The Wave connects to the Brownsville Urban System in Port Isabel. ThisWave2.jpg (193555 bytes) service allows persons to travel directly between South Padre Island, the Brownsville Airport, and Market Square, in downtown Brownsville.

The fare for a one-way trip is $2.00. Children 6 years and younger ride free. The Lower Rio Grande Valley Development Council provides the service. The days of operation are Monday – Saturday

For more information about Rio Transit call 1-800-574-8322
    Click here for a Rio Transit schedule.....

MEET SPI NASCAR CRAFTSMAN DRIVER STEVE PARK


park4.jpg (31293 bytes)Orleans Racing driver Steve Park will be at Schlitterbahn parking lot April 16th as we salute the team that is being partially sponsored by South Padre Island. There will be autograph sessions and merchandise available, along with the South Padre Island show truck.
Steve’s appearance coincides with the Beach N Biker Fest, which will have its main activities at Schlitterbahn.  Steve will meet with fans and lead the Saturday night Beach N Biker Fest Parade.  Steve won the second race of the NASCAR Truck season, becoming only the tenth driver to win NASCAR’s top three touring series.
 Meet Steve, get an autograph, take a picture...........
 

Steve Park Visits SPI


park4.jpg (31293 bytes)Orleans Racing driver Steve Park  was on South Padre Island c
oinciding his appearance with the Beach N Biker Fest.  Steve met with fans and lead the Saturday night Beach N Biker Fest Parade.  Steve won the second race of the NASCAR Truck season, becoming only the tenth driver to win NASCAR’s top three touring series.
 See the picture story.......
 

South Padre Island’s “Outdoors” Attracts Travel Writers


OutdoorWriterFam.jpeg (326572 bytes)The South Padre Island Convention and Visitors Bureau hosted seven travel writers visiting the Island this past week as a part of a Rio Grande Valley Outdoor Familiarization Trip organized by the Office of the Governor Economic Development and Tourism and the Rio Grande Valley Nature Marketing Coop.
  Read the full story.....
 

Free Local Guide to Growing Trees Available


Free copies of “A Guide to Growing Healthy Trees In The Lower Rio Grande Valley”, in both English and Spanish, are now available at City Hall. The Valley Proud Environmental Council furnished the guides.

 

Texas Adopt-A-Beach Spring Cleanup


adoptabeach05.gif (4011 bytes)The Texas Adopt-A-Beach Spring Cleanup will kick off it 19th annual Spring Cleanup for South Padre Island city beaches, from 9:00 a.m. – Noon, on Saturday, April 23rd. Check-in will be held at Water Tower Park at the corner of Laguna Blvd. and Huisache. 
 

This is your opportunity to make a difference by helping preserve one of Texas’ most precious natural resources – our beach. The Texas Adopt-A-Beach program is an all-volunteer effort to remove trash from our beaches and to increase public awareness of the problems of marine debris and beach litter. 

For further information, contact Cate Ball at (956) 761-1025 or email her at cball@townspi.com.
 

Aldermen Proclaim April 2005 “Ila Loetscher Month”


Ila20.jpg (111748 bytes)At Wednesday night’s Board of Aldermen meeting, South Padre Island Mayor Pro-Tem Rick Wells proclaimed April 2005 as “Ila Loetscher Month.”        more.......

 
Team SPI is Honored by SPI Board of Aldermen


Team SPI.jpg (668415 bytes)At Wednesday night’s South Padre Island Board of Aldermen meeting, Mayor Robert N. Pinkerton, Jr. proclaimed April 20th, 2005 as “TEAM SOUTH PADRE ISLAND DAY.”   Read the full story.......
 

Steve Park Races Saturday, April 30th


In the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, SPI sponsored driver Steve Park will race in the Dodge Ram Tough 200 Saturday, April 30th., at The Gateway International Raceway, in Madison, Illinois.

This is race 5 of 25 on the Craftsman Truck Series. The race will be telecast live on the SpeedChannel at 8:30 p.m. EDT. In 2004, the SpeedChannel voted the Dodge Ram Tough 200 Race the Top NASCAR Race Finish of the year.
 

Texas Adopt-A-Beach Spring Cleanup


AAB Christa Stubblefield & Friend.jpg (151520 bytes)The Texas Adopt-A-Beach Spring Cleanup kicked off its 19th annual Spring Cleanup for South Padre Island city beaches, on Saturday, April 23rd.

According to South Padre Island City Planner Cate Ball, the event was a big success. 89 bags of trash were collected from Town beaches, which Ms. Ball estimated to amount to around 2,225 pounds of litter. Over 115 volunteers registered for check-in at Water Tower Park at the corner of Laguna Blvd. and Huisache. Along with their trash bags, volunteers received sunscreen and candy bars courtesy of the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce.   See the picture story.....
 

Board of Aldermen Election Saturday, May 7th


The Early Voting Period Has Ended
 

Over 300 residents voted early in the Board of Aldermen Election on South Padre Island. All remaining residents are urged to cast their ballots on Election Day, this Saturday, May 7th, between 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., at the South Padre Island City Hall.

Election Day - Saturday, May 7th

On Saturday, May 7th, residents of the Town of South Padre Island (Cameron County Precinct 52) will have the opportunity to vote for candidates for three at-large positions on the Board of Aldermen. Voting will be held at City Hall, 4501 Padre Boulevard, South Padre Island, Texas 78597. Voters may cast their ballots, in person, from 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.     more........
 

 

Park Finishes 13th at Dodge Ram Tough 200


ParkSPI Truck.jpg (495139 bytes)South Padre Island sponsored NASCAR Truck driver Steve Park, starting the race in the 22nd position, cruised to a 13th place finish at the Gateway International Raceway in Madison, Illinois.   more.......
 

Success Center Kids Put In “Sweat Equity”


success1.jpg (520874 bytes)Point Isabel Independent School District Success Center kids Elda Agular, Jimmy Garcia, Juan Jose Martinez, Desiree Villareal and Jerry Zamarron put in “Sweat Equity” on the South Padre Island Four Corners Project in South Padre Island. success3.jpg (641755 bytes)

     Read the full story......

SPI Aldermen Approve 2004 Financial Audit


     The South Padre Island Aldermen approved the financial audit for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2004.

     On hand to make the audit presentation was Kimberly Jackson of Long Chilton, LLP.     According to Jackson, the assets of the Town of South Padre Island exceeded its liabilities at the close of the most recent fiscal year...       More.......            

Read the full Audit here....
 

UNOFFICIAL TABULATION OF PRECINCT 52 AND EARLY VOTING RESULTS FOR THE GENERAL ELECTION HELD MAY 7, 2005 TOWN OF SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, TEXAS

                                         Early              Election Day    Total

James “Joe Buck” Camp    124                 174                298    

 Jim Hoff                            167                 156                323                

 Bob Fudge                        120                 128                248    

 Rick Wells                         131                 163                294

 Rick Ridolfi                        190                 215                405

 Tara Rios Ybarra               115                 189                304

 

Total Voters Election Day                398
Total Voters Early                            335
Total Voters                                     733        

 

Landfill Taskforce to Organize


On Thursday, May 12 at 10:00 am there will be an organizational meeting of the 'Taskforce For Landfill Opposition'.  for details.......
 

Steve Park Races Sunday, May 15th.

  
   This Sunday, May 15, South Padre Island sponsored NASCAR Truck driver Steve Park will race in the sixth race of the season, at 1:15 p.m. CDT, in the UAW-GM Ohio 250, at a “sold out” Mansfield Motorsports Speedway, in Mansfield Ohio. The race will be telecast live on the SpeedChannel. Live coverage will begin at 1:00 p.m. CDT.  more......
 

South Padre Island Convention Centre Opens ‘Corridor Gallery’  

 The Corridor Gallery, South Padre Island’s newest attraction, opens as a showcase for regional and international artists at the South Padre Island Convention Centre on Monday May 9th at 6pm.   more......

 

Lefty Moves to New Jersey

 
Lefty, a Kemp's ridley sea turtle will be transferred from Sea Turtle, Inc. of South Padre Island, TX to The Jenkinson's Aquarium of Point Pleasant, NJ on Monday, May 16th.

Lefty lost both of her right flippers after being hit by a boat in Corpus Christi, TX in 2002. Deemed non-releasable after her injuries healed, she has been awaiting placement in a zoo or aquarium.
                     Read the full story.....               Lefty's moving schedule......
 

SPI Town Hall Meetings


SPI Town Hall Meetings on
Padre Boulevard Improvements Scheduled

     There will be three very important Town Hall Meetings concerning proposed improvements to Padre Boulevard, including a landscaped center median.

     The first Town Hall Meeting will take place on Wednesday, May 11, at 10:00 a.m. at Club Padre, 5800 Padre Boulevard.

     The second Town Hall meeting will take place on Wednesday, May 18th, at 4:00 p.m. at Club Padre, 5800 Padre Boulevard. 

    The third Town Hall meeting will take place on Thursday, May 19th, at 6:30 p.m. at Club Padre, 5800 Padre Boulevard. 

     The Padre Boulevard Improvement Town Meetings will feature discussion on a project that will have a tremendous impact upon the future of our community.  All residents and business owners are strongly urged to attend.

      For details see the flyer.......
 

 Local and Regional Healthcare 

 
South Padre Island residents and visitors need access to an assortment of healthcare services and facilities. 
The South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce has prepared a Guide to medical, dental and chiropractic  services on the Island and in Port Isabel.  The Guide includes hospitals in Harlingen, Brownsville and San Benito.
  Follow this link to the Healthcare Guide......

 

Our Fondest Regards To Former Aldermen
 Joe Buck Camp & Rick Wells
   More......

 

And Congratulations to our New Aldermen
 Jim Hoff & Tara Rios Ybarra
    More......

 

Next Race For Park: Quaker Steak & Lube 200

  
On Friday, May 20th, South Padre Island sponsored NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series driver Steve Park will race in the Quaker Steak & Lube 200 at Lowe's Motor Speedway in Concord, North Carolina. The race will be televised live on the SpeedChannel at 7:30 p.m. CDT. ParkSPI Truck.jpg (495139 bytes)

     After six races, Park remains in 15th place in the NASCAR Craftsman Trunk Series with $109,155 in winnings.

     Also, in the 2005 TruckSeries.com Most Popular Driver Poll, Park has taken the lead over Johnny Benson and is now in 1st Place in the poll for the NASCAR Truck Series’ Most Popular Driver. All fans are urged to vote for Steve by going to www.truckseries.com/polls/mpd05/.

more.........
 

Lower Rio Grande Valley Power Squadron


Free Vessel Safety C
heck
 
 May 21st. all day starting at 7:45a.m.

 Followed by: Blessing of the Fleet at 9:30a.m
by Fr. Gerry from our lady of the Sea.
For details..............

 

SPI Emergency & Medical Services Public Information Seminar


The Town of South Padre Island and the ad hoc Health Care Committee are pleased to Announce…… 

The SPI Emergency & Medical Services
Public Information Seminar 

When:              Monday, May 23rd, 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Where:             SPI Convention Centre
Presenters:        South Texas Emergency Care (STEC) Foundation Staff
                        Valley Air Care
                        SPI Fire/Police Departments
                        SPI Medical Clinics 

All Residents Are Urged To Attend
Refreshments & Snacks Will Be Served
more........

 

Summer Fireworks Tradition


fireworks over bay_2.jpg (40559 bytes)Celebrate the beginning of summer by watching the fireworks displays this Memorial Holiday Weekend.  Two shows are scheduled Friday May 27 and Saturday May 28, both shows starting approximately 9:15PM.  The Laguna Madre Bay fireworks shows are best viewed between Marlin and Red Snapper Streets. 
 

Memorial Day Holidayy


In observance of the Memorial Day Holiday the Administrative offices of The Town of South Padre Island will be closed Monday, May 30, 2005.
 

ALL RESIDENTS OF SOUTH PADRE ISLAND


The Board of Aldermen and Town Administration are looking toward the future of the Island, and in particular, what physical and service improvements Islanders feel are needed over the next five to seven years. These improvements may include improvements in Law Enforcement, Public Works, Drainage, Parking, Beach Accesses or any of a number of things that may be on your minds. WE NEED YOUR INPUT! 

Please email us from the Contact Us link at the Town’s website at www.townspi.com  or contact Michael Montgomery, Public Information Manager, at mmontgomery@townspi.com. Also, you may telephone us at City Hall (956) 761-6456, and let us know what is most needed to improve South Padre Island. 

Your voice will be heard, and your ideas and suggestions will go directly to the Board of Aldermen and Town Administration.

HELP US BUILD A BETTER ISLAND!
 

SPI BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT

       


MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND
MAY 28 & 29, 2005
See the flyer for details.......
 

2005 Hurricane Season Outlook


NOAA hurricane forecasters are predicting another above normal season with 12-15 tropical storms.....       full story......
 

Members Needed For Taskforce


The Board of Aldermen have created an ad hoc Taskforce to support the opposition of a landfill proposition near Los Fresnos, Texas.  All interested parties are invited to fill out an application to join the Taskforce.

 Applications may be submitted to City Hall, 4501 Padre Blvd. or you may contact Michael Montgomery, Public Information Manager, at mmontgomery@townspi.com. Also, you may telephone us at City Hall (956) 761-6456. 

Click here for the application.....
 

FREE Public Health Information And Educational Workshop/FREE lung Tests

The Texas Society For Respiratory Care is having its annual meeting in South Padre, TX the 8 - 10th of June 2005. 

As part of our morning educational workshop, we will be providing FREE lung tests for those who might be at risk for lung disease.    more.........

SPI’s Park Races This Friday At Texas Motor Speedway

  &nb