Beachcombers Vol 1 Issue 1 by Digital Aim Media

from THE EDITOR

By Catherine Donnelly

Welcome to a newsprint or digital copy of the first volume and edition of the Beachcomber’s Guide to the Lower Laguna Madre (“the Beachcomber” or “the Guide” for short). We hope that you’ll enjoy reading and start following us so that we’ll be around for some time to come.

We invite you to be interactive and let us know what you would like to see that we’re not providing, and even if there are things that you don’t like that we’re carrying in the paper. Letters to the editor give us clues as to what the readership wants and gives voice to issues and opinions that might not otherwise come to light.

We will be concentrating on what we think affects or interests our readership from the cities of Laguna Vista, Port Isabel, South Padre Island and the surrounding areas. After all, issues, events and other activities in your neighboring cities and towns might interest you. Even state or national issues that affect you might occasionally be included.

The widespread definition of a “beachcomber” is someone who walks along beaches and shorelines looking for items, such as seashells. Regular beachcombers can have particular interests in fossils, pottery shards, historical artifacts, jewelry, adrift sea beans, sea glass, driftwood and other items of curiosity. We have heard stories of messages being sent in bottles that come from faraway places along the tides to reach our beaches. The beachcombing mystique is evocative and ties us to our environment, our world and our history.

Folks who are into metal detecting sometimes keep their finds, sell them, or try to find the rightful owners. Some consider it a hobby and to some it’s more of a “side hustle.” Scientists and oceanographers are also referred to as beachcombers as they investigate drift patterns and keep track of the creatures and other things that wash up on our shores. Many local people in our community also comb the shoreline for the trash that washes up on our shores, particularly toxic or harmful things like plastics and used disposable diapers. They are among our local heroes who don’t wear capes.

I doubt there isn’t one among us who doesn’t know or have at least seen a beachcomber on our sandbar. Figuratively speaking, it’s in this spirit that we named our humble project as we search for items of interest to offer up to you just as the tides offers curious items and creatures up to our shores. Most of all, we hope that you enjoy the ride with us.

Our small team would be most honored if you sign up for a subscription. See subscriber information in the Publisher’s box.

Warmest regards,

Catherine “Cat” Donnelly Editor

Publisher/Photographer: Patricia M. McGrath

Editor: Catherine “Cat” Donnelly

Contributors: Benjamin Melchor, Kevin D. Wegner

Contact: beachcombersguide@gmail.com

Publication Location: Port Isabel & South Padre Island, Texas

Cover photo: Holly and Jaxson from Spring Branch, Texas enjoy parasailing on a beautiful December afternoon.

INDEX

Pg. 4. Boutique at Upper Deck

Pg. 6. Dengue fever

Pg. 8. Andie Bowie Park upgrades

Pg. 9. Neptune Circle upgrades

Pg. 9. Best TX Winter Destination

Pg. 10. Drive Sober. No Regrets

Pg. 11. TxDOT Road Work

Pg. 12. Behind the Lens

Pg. 14. Gastronomic Adventures

Pg. 18. Plastic Free Padre

Pg. 19. Message in a Bottle

Pg. 20. Film Review

Pg. 22. $500 Shopping Spree

Pg. 10. Winter Visitor’s Club

Must see new boutique at Upper Deck!

By Catherine Donnelly editorbeachcombersguide@gmail.com

Whenever you go to a vacation destination, you have choices. You can go to a cookie cutter accommodation, or you can search out the area’s hidden gems. Frequenting the more unique establishments can elevate your stay to new levels.

The Upper Deck Hotel & Bar is one of those hidden gems. It already has the vibe of a cult classic movie. It’s well known as a really fun adult-only, pet friendly hotel with two bars and a restaurant featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner. It’s a place that really feels like home, but much cooler, and with a pool!

Guests leave reviews extolling the friendly staff, great bar, exceptional food, and their clean and cozy rooms. If you check out their Facebook page, you will notice endless parties, live music, some of the best karaoke deejays on the island and trivia nights. With everything they have to offer, there’s almost no reason to leave and see the rest of the area!

Of course, with South Padre Island’s scenic shores being a few minutes’ easy walk from the hotel, you’ll have to eke out time for that. What Winter Texans and other visitors might not know is that there was a grand opening of Gulf Coast Goods Boutique since your last visit, giving you one less reason to leave the hotel to hunt down a bathing suit or sun hat, or a replacement for your lost sunglasses.

The store only features beach themed merchandise with everything being tropical in nature or use. Gulf Coast Goods is the only place in the area to find Lilly Pulitzer products with the closest other store being in Houston. They also carry the more fashionable lines of Maui Jim sunglasses.

“The whole premise of the store is that hotel guests can take a little bit of their island vacation home with them,” said Ginny Stapleton, owner of The Upper Deck. “Stop in and check it out.”

“The whole premise of the store is that hotel guests can take a little bit of their island vacation home with them,” said Ginny Stapleton, owner of The Upper Deck.

First winery open in Starr County

Dos Rios Winery is the first and only winery in Starr County, located on Highway 83 in historic Rio Grande City, Texas. This location is known as Dos Rios because it is adjacent to the Rio Grande on the Texas side and the Rio San Juan on the Mexican side.

Delfino Garza, Jr. and wife, Nora Garza, started growing grapes on this lush and beautiful property in 2011. They had the grand opening of their tasting room with Rio Grande City officials in attendance on March 22 of this year.

“We are so proud to have such wonderful award-winning wines to offer to the Rio Grande Valley and beyond,” said Delfino Garza, Jr. “All of these wines are from grapes grown in our Dos Rios Vineyard and made 100% from these grapes. That together with our work, the guidance of our expert and the work of our dedicated winemakers are making these incredible wines.”

June 2012 saw the first harvest of Black Spanish Le Noir grapes in Rio Grande City. By the end of the month, the Garza family harvested close to 600 pounds of grapes grown at the Vineyard. This beautiful harvest marked the first of its kind as the area begins to develop as a producer of high-quality grapes for the Texas wine industry.

former farm and adjoins the Rio Grande and the Rio San Juan. It is also bounded on the west by Kelsey Creek. The prolonged drought and the excessively hot summers, rather than being devastating to the crop, actually help produce a very early ripening and very sweet grape.

The Garzas started adding Blanc Du Bois vines in 2014, and quickly started plans for a winery, wine tasting room, and a restaurant. Since then, the Blanc Du Bois crop has flourished and produces a dry white wine. The Black Spanish is also producing a beautiful wine which has been released and is already racking up medals in competitions.

Each season brings special joys at Dos Rios Winery. This spring with the tasting room open, friends enjoyed the rebirth of the Blanc Du Bois, Le Noir Black Spanish, and Chardonnay.

“The Fifteen Acres,” as the family calls it, sits on a

The citrus trees blossomed with tangerines, oranges, grapefruit and lemons. Even more exciting is the blooming of their olive trees with many tiny Arbequina, Chemlali, and Koroneiki olives. These together with the peaches, pecans, and pears are a sight to behold.

“In 2024, we have an abundance of olives and many citrus and other fruits,” said Delfino Garza, Jr., “and we want everyone to come see these beauties growing in our beautiful Rio Grande City, Texas!”

Winter Texans will be able to enjoy the cooler temperatures with bud breaks and citrus blossoms. A bud break is when a new bud bursts out of the vine. It’s the first cue that the dormant grape vines are entering the new growing season,.

“We started out small, but our hopes are to showcase the rich history, great climate, and the agricultural bounty of this region of the country,” said Delfino Garza, Jr. “We are so proud of our community in the Rio Grande City, Texas, and the Rio Grande Valley.”

In case you missed the first one, the second ever Trolley Tour Sip n See with RGC Bessie III is scheduled for December 12. Bessie III leaves its station in downtown Rio Grande City and provides a quick tour to be followed by a visit to the winery. Contact the Dos Rio Winery by email at nrgarza1971@yahoo. com if you would like to make reservations, or text/call (956) 645-4793.

Confirmed dengue fever in Cameron County

By Catherine Donnelly editorbeachcombersguide@gmail.com

Many Dengue cases come to the United States from travelers. Texas, however, recorded its first locally transmitted case of dengue fever this year in Camerson County, while the state is facing a surge in the number of cases according to the Texas Department of State Health Services (TDSHS).

bleeding gums, swelling, lethargy or restlessness, and liver enlargement, according to WHO.

There is no specific treatment for dengue, but a timely diagnosis is important for appropriate clinical management of symptoms to prevent the progression to severe dengue or death.

Dengue is the most common mosquitoborne disease worldwide, according to the Center of Disease Control (CDC). Dengue is spread by the bites of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which range in mostly tropical and subtropical climates such as South Texas.

Protective measures are recommended from dawn to dusk due to the diurnal Aedes Aegypti which are active in the daytime. For this reason, mosquito control should also cover workplaces and schools, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

About 25% of infected people will develop symptoms within 3-14 days. Dengue is usually asymptomatic or result in mild illness caused by fever. The initial infection can cause muscle aches, joint pain, elevated temperature, headaches, nausea, vomiting, bone pain, pain behind the eyes and rash. Most people recover completely within two weeks.

About one in 20 symptomatic people develop a severe infection that can be fatal if untreated. Symptoms may involve shock, severe bleeding or severe organ damage. Often starting after the fever has gone away, warning signs of a severe case include intense abdominal pain, persistent vomiting,

Concerned citizens are urged to take precautions against mosquito bites, both indoors and outdoors. Indoor protection can include the use of mosquito coils during the day; and window and door screens that are in good repair can reduce the chances of mosquitoes entering the home. Insecticide-treated nets offer good protection for people against mosquito bites while sleeping during the day.

Mosquitoes remain active in much of Texas into November and December. While outside, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends the following:

Use EPA registered insect repellents and read and follow all application instructions.

1. If you’re wearing sunscreen, put the sunscreen on first.

2. Wear loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and pants.

3. Wear clothing and gear treated with permethrin.

4. Cover strollers with mosquito netting.

5. Consult CDC website before using products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) and other chemicals on children.

6. Eliminate stagnant water in containers and tires, etc.

Gardening experts recommend that citizens living in prone areas could incorporate specific plants that have mosquito repelling properties. These include:

1. Catnip

2. Citronella

3.Lavendar

4. Mint/peppermint

5. Basil

6.Marigolds

7. Lemongrass

8. Sage

9. Rosemary

10. Allium

11. Geraniums

12. Lemon Balm

Resources:

WHO Fact sheet: Dengue and severe dengue; https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/ detail/dengue-and-severe-dengue

https://www.cdc.gov/mosquitoes/php/toolkit/ potential-range-of-aedes.html

AedesAegypti(PhotocourtesyBugGuide.net) Infectedaedesmosquitoscarrydiseasessuchas DengueandZikaviruses.Aegyptibiteduringthe daytimehours.

Aedes Albopictus (Photo courtesy Entomology Today) Albopictus is also known as the Asian tigermosquitoandcancarrythesamediseases. Aedesrangeintropicalandsubtropicalclimates like South Texas.

County begins accessibility upgrades to Andy Bowie Park

By Catherine Donnelly editorbeachcombersguide@gmail.com

On November 25, encompassing upgrades began at Cameron County Beach Access #3 located adjacent to Andy Bowie Park on South Padre Island (SPI). The access closure will last 6-8 months for Phase One of the overall project which includes overhauling the existing dune walkover, American Disabilities Act (ADA) improvements to the parking area and beach access. Visitors are referred to Cameron County Beach Access 4 East and 4 West in the meantime.

“We sincerely appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as the County endeavors to enhance public beach access and improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors of Cameron County,” stated County Judge Eddie Trevino. “We appreciate the commitment of the Texas General Land Office (TGLO) on this project and most importantly the great partnership with Cameron County.”

protect the dune system by minimizing impacts in the dunes and vegetation.”

Phase One adds a small section of a permeable pavement system for ADA parking which is made from an environmentally friendly product that infiltrates water directly into the ground. Rain on a traditional parking lot can wash the contaminants and pollutants from under cars into our storm water system or directly into the bay.

“This permeable system protects our estuaries and environment,” said Joe E. Vega, Cameron County Parks Director.

Phase Two increases the permeable parking structure for the entire parking lot and adds a large pavilion with modern restrooms which are open air at the top. More information can be found on the Cameron County Parks website. https:// www.cameroncountytx.gov/parkscoastal-parks/

This announcement comes on the heels of the recent Beach Nourishment Project at Andy Bowie Park which successfully widened the beach profile, greatly enhancing the overall beach experience.

The existing walkover has served its purpose over the years, but the current project includes a new dune walkover embracing ADA design, using Trex brand composite decking made from 95% reclaimed and recycled materials that you can see at County Beach accesses 4 and 5. There will also be rinse stations and a sidewalk according to a recent press release.

The enhancements to public access at Beach Access 3 will improve accessibility for visitors, creating economic development opportunities by attracting more tourists to the area,” said Commissioner Sofia Benevides of Cameron County Commissioner Precinct 1. “Most importantly, these improvements will help preserve and

“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Texas General Land Office for their partnership on this fantastic project,” added Vega. “Collaborations like this enable us to enrich community well-being for everyone who visits and resides in Cameron County.”

The total project construction cost is approximately $777,500 and is partially being funded through the TGLO Coastal Management Program Project of Special Merit (CMP $650,000 and County $127,500), according to a Cameron County press release.

The Parks and Recreation Department’s mission is to provide safe, quality outdoor recreational opportunities to the citizens and visitors of Cameron County. The Parks Department works diligently to develop and protect the county’s coastal resources.

Contact the Cameron County Parks and Recreation department at (956) 7613701 for any questions about beach accessibility.

SPI City Access #16 starts renovation

For Immediate Release

The City of South Padre Island’s Beach Access #16 at Neptune Circle started to undergo construction Monday, December 9, 2024. The access is located on Gulf Boulevard between East Saturn Lane and East Venus Lane.

Construction is anticipated to last for at least 150 business days (ending approximately in July). Improvements will include a permanent restroom, a rinse station, parking lot improvements, and an ADA dune walkover. The updated restroom design used for this project will be the same as the one used at Whitecap Circle, Sea Island Circle, and Fantasy Circle.

The community can access the beach by either Poinsettia Circle (Beach Access #15), located 0.11 miles to the south, or Starlight Circle (Beach Access #17), located 0.11 miles to the north.

This project was funded in part by a Texas Coastal Management Program grant approved by the Texas Land Commissioner, providing financial assistance under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended, awarded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Office for Coastal Management, pursuant to NOAA Award No. NA23NOS4190249.

“The City remains committed to enhancing our beach accesses and surrounding amenities to benefit our residents and visitors. As construction improvements are underway, we ask for the community’s patience and understanding while the access is temporarily closed,” said Kristina Boburka, Shoreline Director. “The safety of our residents and visitors are always the City’s top priority and we look forward to sharing these updates with you soon.”

Reader’s Digest awards SPI

best Texas winter destination

For Immediate Release

South Padre Island (SPI) is touted as one of the “best winter destinations” in the U.S. by Reader’s Digest. And as most of us already know, it tops the list of best winter destinations in our fine state.

SPI was praised for its ideal temperatures and perfect sailing conditions. Reader’s Digest encourages readers to take advantage of bargain hotel rates and have the beach all to themselves during the off-season. It’s a great time to beat the crowds while saving a little money in the process.

With temperatures around 70 degrees SPI is perfect for sailing, dolphin watching, fishing, horseback riding, and long walks on misty mornings. Some people are hardy enough to even take a swim.

Visitors can also stop before the causeway to the island to climb the historic Port Isabel Lighthouse, which is often very hot inside in summer but more comfortable in winter. There are almost endless attractions on South Padre and the surrounding area so that there is sure to be something for just about anyone.

TxDOT announces the “Drive Sober. No Regrets.” campaign

For Immediate Release

The holiday season should be a time of joy and togetherness, not tragedy. As friends, families and coworkers gather to celebrate this winter, TxDOT wants drivers to remember to never get behind the wheel after drinking any amount of alcohol.

• Keep the holidays cheerful by always getting a sober ride when celebrations include alcohol. If you think you might drink at all, arrange a sober ride ahead of time. You always have options for a sober ride, like taxis, rideshares or public transportation.

• Drunk driving is a huge problem yearround in Texas, but the problem increases during the holidays. In fact, in 2023, 28% of all traffic deaths in Texas during the holiday season (Dec. 1, 2023, through Jan. 1, 2024) involved drunk driving.

• In a survey of people who admit to drinking and driving, the majority say they have done so after being at a friend’s house. If you see that someone at a holiday gathering has been drinking, encourage them to find a sober ride or to stay put until they are sober. Helping to prevent a potential crash is worth any temporary awkwardness.

The campaign supports a heightened law enforcement period from December 13 through New Year’s Day, when more officers will be on the alert looking for drunk drivers.

Winter Visitors Club Gathers for Fun, Fellowship

Come join the Winter Visitors Club members who will be gathering each Tuesday evening for fun, games and fellowship through March 28, 2025. The club has been meeting since 1972, more than 50 years! They have kept faithful to the longstanding goal to provide fun and entertainment for Winter Texans year after year.

at 190 Port Road for weekly games of Bingo with door prizes donated by local merchants. Refreshments are also available.

Come alone or bring friends. Everyone is welcome. Admission is only $5.00 each person. The doors open at 6 p.m. and the meeting starts at 7 p.m.

For additional information, contact club president Duane Baxter at 956-371-8018.

The group gathers at the Laguna Madre Youth Center in Port Isabel (the old Boys & Girls Club building),

Rooms • Restaurant • Events • Shopping

TxDOT finishes PI/starts SPI road work

By Catherine Donnelly editorbeachcombersguide@gmail.com

Many citizens had questions regarding the road work project on Texas State Highway 100 through Port Isabel. The work started, then there was a delay for a couple of weeks and then it was resumed. People heard something about materials not being up to spec, but there was a scarcity of details around town.

According to TxDOT, they inspect the materials being used by the road work contractors both before and during road jobs. Midway through the project in Port Isabel, it was found that the materials that the contractor ordered were not up to specifications.

“We worked closely with TxDOT to expedite the project through our city and appreciate that the problem was identified and resolved quickly,” said

Jared Hockema, City Manager of Port Isabel.

Work was paused for a week or two while the new materials could be ordered and delivered. The pavement that didn’t meet specs was never put down. The work in Port Isabel has since been completed successfully and TxDOT will resume the project on the South Padre Island (SPI) side as this article is being written, weather permitting.

“We are working on South Padre Island between Texas State Highway 48 and the Queen Isabella Memorial Bridge,” said Raymond Pedraza, TxDOT Public Information Officer.

TxDOT started the project last week with the goal to finish the rest of the project by the end of December, but it may run into January depending on the weather, according to Pedraza.

Nighttime milling and paving work is scheduled for Park Road 100 on South Padre Island, from December 3, 2024, to February 14, 2025, between the Queen Isabella Memorial Causeway and Orca Circle. Pavement milling is the process of removing at least part of the surface of a paved area, from just enough thickness to level and smooth the surface to a full depth removal and so varies from project to project.

Crews will be present Sunday through Thursday, from 6 p.m. to 5:30 a.m. Drivers should anticipate lane reductions and are advised to slow down and stay alert to keep everyone safe in the work zone. All work is pending weather conditions.

For more information, contact TxDOT Pharr District Public Information Officer Ray Pedraza at raymond.pedraza@ txdot.gov or (956) 279-5486.

PhotobyPatriciaM.McGrath

A local family-owned establishment

Delightful wine tasting experiences RGV grapes, crafting elegant RGV wine Live music

A welcoming space for family and furry friends Just 20 minutes from the shores of SPI

Hours: Thursday 11am5pm, Friday & Saturday 3pm-11pm, Sunday 128pm

Los Fresnos, Texas

BEHIND THE LENS

These are the things below that race through my mind on how I make my decisions on what cameras and lenses I take to use when I’m packing for a trip or even just a photoshoot.

Photos

with Smartphone Vs DSLR Cameras

Travel memories deserve more than smartphones can deliver

By Kevin Wegner, Photographer

Special to the Beachcomber

Despite my love of photography, sometimes the convenience of using my smartphone outweighs all my decisions about what I should be using for the quality of the photo that I want. In many circumstances, my digital single lens reflex camera (DSLR) will outperform my Smartphone, but I often find myself reasoning that something is better than nothing to grab the memory.

That’s the crux of our decision making. Do we want just good photos or breathtaking photos? I often ask myself if it is worth it to drag my big lenses and DSLR along with me? Can you relate to that feeling?

There’s something incredibly special about the quality and detail that a DSLR camera

captures compared to a smartphone. When looking back at vacation photos, the ones taken with my DSLR always stand out, showcasing the beauty and emotion of those moments so much better. This is why I often find myself wishing I had opted for my DSLR instead of the convenience of my smartphone. The memories feel more vibrant, and the stories they tell are richer. Going forward, I aim to prioritize bringing my DSLR on trips with me—those memories deserve to be captured in the best way possible!

I traveled to Nebraska to see family recently and decided to tote my DSLR. Based on previous experience, I knew that it would probably be a little bit of a hassle lugging it through airports and such, and it proved somewhat true even with TSR pre-approved. But, in the end, it was well worth it.

Image Quality: DSLR cameras generally offer superior image quality due to larger sensors and higher-quality lenses. This results in sharper images with better detail and dynamic range compared to most smartphone cameras with smaller sensors.

Control Over Settings: DSLRs provide manual controls for exposure, aperture, and ISO, allowing photographers to customize their settings for different situations. While many smartphones now offer manual modes, they may not provide the same level of precise control.

Interchangeable Lenses: DSLRs allow users to change lenses based on the type of photography they’re doing, whether it’s landscape, portrait, or macro photography. Smartphones typically have a fixed lens, limiting versatility.

Low-Light Performance: DSLRs usually perform better in low-light conditions due to larger sensors and better optics,

producing clearer images with less noise. Smartphones often struggle in these situations, even with night mode features.

Depth of Field: DSLRs can achieve greater depth of field control, allowing photographers to create beautiful background blur (bokeh) effects. While some smartphones simulate this effect, it usually doesn’t match the quality produced by a DSLR.

Ergonomics and Handling: DSLRs are typically larger and heavier, which can provide better ergonomics and stability during shooting, particularly for long sessions. Smartphones are more portable and user-friendly but may not offer the same grip or balance.

Battery Life: DSLRs tend to have longer battery life, especially for extended shooting sessions, compared to smartphones, which can deplete their battery faster with highresolution photography or video recording.

Storage and Processing: Digital cameras often save images in RAW format, providing greater post-processing flexibility without losing quality. While smartphones can capture RAW images, they usually default to JPEG, which has compression artifacts.

Gastronomic Adventures Indian Cuisine Comes to Port Isabel! Leo’s Grill, Indian Cuisine seasoned with love

By Catherine Donnelly, Patricia McGrath and Benjamin Melchor

Probably the most uttered opinion regarding food choices in the Lower Laguna Madre is that we needed a good, authentic Indian restaurant to open somewhere. For all those foodies out there hankering for something new, your wait is finally over and it’s in the middle of Port Isabel.

Leo’s Grill, owned by Leo and Latha Titus, is a delightful family-owned and operated business. The parents and their 4 children work there (twins Estreya and Emmanual as well as younger twins Daniiel and David). Leo’s love of cooking for people started with whipping up dishes for his children’s friends. The family discussed that there were a lot of Mexican and seafood restaurants in the area, and they were excited to bring something unique to the table, so to speak.

“All of our friends loved Dad’s dishes instantly and he was so happy to see them enjoying his food,” said Leo’s daughter Estreya Titus. “And when we would have small gatherings of 20 or 30 people, he really enjoyed making the food for everyone. His love of cooking

was one of the reasons behind us opening the restaurant.”

For Benjamin, one of the critics in this review, this was his first experience having Indian cuisine. He found the dining room welcoming as he was greeted with a smile and a lovely scent of cardamom spices and slow cooked meats. He knew that he was in for something special.

They served the meal family style. First up was an appetizer of fried vegetable samosa which was a crispy, buttery triangularshaped patty with a warm spiced vegetable filling and a choice of green or red sauces with a little “heat” for dipping. This dish was only $4.99. The Leo’s Grill Loaded Fries is chicken piled high with fries, purple onions, greens and all kinds of things!

This was followed by a few delectable dishes accompanied by an herbaceous and sweet basmati rice. The rice looked so enticing that Benjamin dove straight in!

Lamb Biryani is a celebration of scent, color and flavor served with aromatic basmati rice and tender chunks of spiced lamb. This dish is the perfect example of the vibrant

flavor palate of India for $16.99. Lamb Curry is succulent tender lamb cooked in a delicious curry sauce with rice for $15.00. For those who like a fairly hot curry, the Madras Chicken Curry consists of tender chicken in a thick, dark red sauce that is made from chiles and paprika for $14.99. The Coconut Shrimp Curry is made from jumbo shrimp in a lightly spiced curry sauce for $16.99.

The Butter Chicken and Masala is a rich and delicious dish of chicken in masala gravy with steamed rice for $14.99. And the Saag Paneer was the perfect pairing for any of the meat dishes or stand-alone, besides being completely delicious. It’s made of leafy greens and the paneer is Indian cottage cheese, mildly spiced for $13.64.

Even as a foodie, Benjamin was almost overwhelmed by the exotic tastes of curry, Biryani, lamb and paneer. At that point, he knew he was hooked on the wonderful experience of Leo’s Grill after being served a very proper meal. Whether you love Indian food or are a novice, you have to gather your friends and try out the newest sensation in the little city before the sandbar across the bay.

The cuisine at Leo’s Kitchen includes Biryani, masala and naan, according to their website. There are introductory discounts

available of $5 on $50 or $10 off of each $100 order. Also, the food is cooked to your specification. They’re prepared very mild for the American palate overall, but just a word to your wait staff will fix that if you like it spicier.

Dine in or pick up available. Open Tuesdays through Sundays from 11:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and 5 – 9 p.m. Closed on Mondays.

They’re located at 1200 TX-100, Unit 1, Port Isabel, TX (the old Chilito Pikin’s location, across from Isabel’s). (956) 299-9898

Photos continue on next page

PhotosbyPatricaM.McGrath

Butter Chicken and Masala

Leo’s Loaded Fries

FriedVegetableSamosa

410 Padre Blve Ste. 111 • (956) 596-0558

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Plastic Free Padre: Hopes to reignite pilot program

By Catherine Donnelly editorbeachcombersguide@gmail.com

Anyone who has walked the beaches of South Padre Island (SPI), particularly after a busy weekend or event, has seen the beautiful shoreline littered with plastic even though there are plenty of trashcans situated a mere few steps away. In 2022, Gulf Guardians, in partnership with Keep Texas Beautiful (KTB), tried to encourage local restaurants to join Plastic Free Padre through a pilot program aimed to reduce single-use plastics and polystyrene on SPI thereby reducing the litter on the beaches.

Participating restaurants were to shift to more suitable materials for throw-away items like cutlery packets and takeout containers----without raising prices for the business or its customers. The program was led by Gulf Guardians, a local nonprofit dedicated to educational community outreach. They hope to rejuvenate interest in the initiative again.

The pilot program was funded by KTB through an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Trash Free Waters Grant. Participating restaurants were to receive technical assistance and microgrants to help offset the initial costs of transitioning away from single-use plastic items.

“We surveyed the 185 food and beverage businesses on the island in 2022 and were unable to determine the cost subsidy for the changeover to more sustainable products through that method,” said Aarin Hartwell of Gulf Guardians. “We needed to know, for instance, how many cutlery packets or polystyrene clamshells they went through in a month to see how much more expensive an alternate product might cost.”

The difference between the cost of the two products would have been what

was subsidized for the 6-month pilot program. While the official pilot program for SPI has run out, there is still interest in offering essentially the same help to interested parties. If Gulf Guardians can show that there is an interest to work towards more sustainable products, there’s a good chance to regain more grant assistance from KTB and grow the program.

“We were hoping the participation of our coastal community would inspire other cities on the Gulf Coast and beyond to do the same,” stated Aarin Hartwell, Founder and Director of Gulf Guardians.

“In that spirit, we’re inviting South Padre’s food and beverage establishments to contact us to see if we can help them transition over. We haven’t given up.”

The shift to alternative materials aims to help sustain long-term plastic-free businesses without raising the costs. Businesses save money by reducing the amount of single-use items they provide and reducing the amount of trash sent to the landfill. Restaurants that have participated in similar programs across the country have saved as much as $3,700 annually through product minimization and reduced waste hauling costs.

“We’ve learned a lot in the past few years,” said Hartwell. “For instance, paper straws can turn to mush, but avocado seed or agave straws work much better. Also, a lot of products were advertising themselves as compostable, but come to find out, they needed an industrial facility to do that of which there are none in Texas. They wound up posing the exact same issues that the plastic straws were causing with the aquatic wildlife, only at a much higher cost.”

Reducing waste is a critical step to

[Trashblownintothesanddunes/CourtesyphotoPatriciaM.McGrath]Togodebrisfromlocal restaurantsareleftonourbeachesandblowintothesanddunes,causingpossibledangerto local wildlife.

protecting our waterways. It is estimated that approximately 80% of aquatic litter is generated on land before finding its way to the ocean. Using alternative products will eventually reduce their cost as they become more mainstream and can produce them on a wider scale.

“Reducing single use plastic items is paramount to minimizing the amount of litter making its way to Texas beaches and the ocean,” said Sara Nichols, KTB Program Director. “This litter takes volunteers or taxpayer’s money to clean up. Once it makes its way to the ocean, it poses a huge threat to wildlife and the aquatic ecosystems so many coastal communities rely on for food and tourism.”

South Padre Island-area restaurants are invited to reach out to Gulf Guardians regarding the Plastic Free Padre initiative. To participate or to learn more, please contact Aarin Hartwell, Gulf Guardians, at txgulfguardians@gmail.com or (956) 455-5238.

Founded in 1967, Keep Texas Beautiful is a non-profit organization dedicated to deploying resources for community improvement projects, clean-ups, and youth engagement efforts by partnering

with organizations across the state.

Gulf Guardians is a local environmental education (501c3) nonprofit organization with a mission to further environmental stewardship on SPI and the Gulf Coast. Their mission is creating long-term sustainable change. They provide professional development, facilitate community engagement workshops, lead citizen science projects, and increase community resilience through various opportunities for the local community.

[Plasticbottleonthebeach/Courtesyphoto PatriciaM.McGrath]Debrisfrombeachgoers oritemsthatwashuponshorefrequentlylitter the beaches of South Padre Island.

Woman finds message in a bottle

SPI resident finds message in a Captain Morgan’s bottle along the shore.

By Catherine Donnelly

On Saturday morning, Dr. Laurie Coker of South Padre Island was walking her dogs on the beach, as she does every day, and she found a Captain Morgan’s bottle laying in the sand. She thought it was trash until she picked it up and looked to see what was inside.

There was a message scrawled on a piece of paper inside dated June 15 of this year that read, “love the beach, too. Maci.” The names Emily and Angela were also written, and it said it was sent from Keewaydin Island, Florida. It took the bottle nearly six months to make its way almost 1,000 miles to our shores on the very tip of Texas.

“I added my own message saying it was found on South Padre Island, Texas, on 12/07/24 and placed it back in the bottle. I’ll go as far as I can out on the jetties

when the tide is going out and toss it back into the Gulf,” said Dr. Coker. “Maybe someone will find it and add their own message and keep it going.”

Online sleuths are already trying to find out the three young ladies who scrawled the message, according to Coker.

Dr. Laurie Coker is a retired English teacher, a film critic and frequent contributortolocalpublications.

PhotoCourtesyLaurieCokerSPIresidentfinds messageinaCaptainMorgan’sbottlealong the shore.

Binge or Cringe: Film Reviews

The Long Game (2024 winner for Best Feature Film, Imagen Award)

By Catherine Donnelly editorbeachcombersguide@gmail.com

“The Long Game” is a coming-ofage story and independent historical docudrama that I hadn’t heard much about, perhaps drowned out by the recent attention grabbing election. The movie caught my eye as my husband and I were searching through Netflix’s offerings, not knowing about its significant ties to South Texas.

The stars included Jay Hernandez (who received Best Actor of a feature film, Imagen Award and arguably stole the show), Dennis Quaid and Cheech Marin (Best supporting actor nominee, Imagen Award). The younger cast of Latino actors includes Julian Works who played the role of one of the student golfer named Joe Trevino. There were also lesser-known stars, but everyone played their parts well,making for a good film.

Reading through IMDB (Internet Movie Database) reviews, it became evident that viewers who are very into anachronistic details were not very complimentary. In film, an anachronism is usually when things appear in the movie that did not exist yet in that time period. There are many

examples of this in even the best of films, like in the 2004 movie Troy, the director had llamas in Turkey when they would not have been in that area of the world for another 2,800 years!

“The Long Game’s” audience members noticed the lack of consistency in the era’s cars, the presence of the modern 50-star flag when there were only 48 states in that time period, and that the terrain was hilly and not authentic to Del Rio. The director, who garnered the Imagen Award of Best Director of a feature film, tackled this issue in a 2023 interview.

“The problem is that Del Rio has changed a lot since the 1950’s,” said writer/director Julio Quintana during the SXSW Film Festival.

If you can forgive that the movie was not created on a controlled movie set or in its authentic location, it might interest you to know that it was filmed on locations both near and far. Smithville and nearby Bastrop in the greater Austin area were the key locations for filming in Texas. The Republic of Colombia had the vibe and characteristics of the mid-1950’s American city of Del Rio and was another location Used.

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People overwhelmingly approved of this feel-good film. Those people were there for the story, and the anachronisms didn’t distract them. It was a great triumphant underdog story that also tackled the racism of the times and was completely family friendly. This is one of my favorite genres.

The story goes that in the mid-1950’s, out of their love for the game, five young Mexican-American caddies were determined to teach themselves how to play golf, even though they were not permitted on any golf course unless they had a job there and were doing said job. They created their own golf course in the rough terrain of the South Texas desert, but didn’t even have proper equipment until a kindly groundskeeper (played by Cheech Marin) let them raid his secret cache of discarded Items.

Meanwhile, JB (Jay Hernandez) was the incoming superintendent at San Felipe High School. His mentor, Frank Mitchell (Dennis Quaid), tried to get Peña into the area’s members-only country club. Driving to the golf course

for this big meeting, an errant golf ball hit Pena in the head. He saw the teens who were responsible, but they ran away before he could catch them. He seemed as impressed by their skill as annoyed by the bump on his head.

This makes Pena run late for the meeting at the country club and he was ultimately rejected from membership solely based on this ethnicity. Later, at the school, he encounters the same five teenagers who were involved in the errant golf ball incident.

He learned that they are caddies at the club but would never be allowed to play there.

Still reeling from his rejection, Pena decided to recruit those five boys to form a high school golf team called the Mustangs in order to show that Mexican-American golfers can be as good as Caucasians and hopefully foster the acceptance of people of color on the golf courses. They set out in earnest to win the State Championship as he and his buddy Frank Mitchell coach the boys along

the way in everything from proper dress code and sportsmanship to the rules of the game

NOTE: The two men were portrayed as war buddies in the film, but in fact, Pena did not serve in World War II.

(Spoiler Alert) One of the best scenes, in my opinion, is when the boys are playing a tournament in McAllen and they sneak out of the hotel at night, heading to Mexico.

They cross the Rio Grande and enter a vibrant city that is perhaps Reynosa? The boys start out hopeful about letting lose and having fun, but the outing quickly turns contentious as the boys realize that if they didn’t feel accepted at home, they were perhaps less accepted in the country of their ancestors, sadly. In my opinion, this movie has a little bit for everyone. There’s suspense, romance, and hilarity. There is sadness and joy, struggle and triumph. I highly recommend!

‘The Long Game” was loosely based on the book “Mustang Miracle” (2012:

Author’s Press) by Humberto Garcia and released by Mucho Mas Media. Although the setting is about 65 years ago, the story still feels very relevant in today’s political environment.

The Long Game streaming: where to watch it online, you ask? This website stays up-to-date on the details:

https://www.justwatch.com/us/ movie/the-long-game

Currently you can watch “The Long Game” streaming on Netflix, with ads. It can be bought and downloaded from Amazon Video, Apple TV, or the Microsoft Store. It can be rented from Amazon Video, Apple TV, the Microsoft Store, or Spectrum On Demand online.

Rating: A-/B+

10, 2025

SPI Shoppers Vie for $500 spree

By Catherine Donnelly editorbeachcombersguide@gmail.com

The South Padre Island (SPI) Chamber of Commerce is rewarding one lucky shopper on SPI who enters and qualifies by December 17 in their annual “Shop the Island” promotion. To qualify, shoppers must spend a minimum of $20 at any business on the island and bring the receipt(s) into an approved location (listed below), where the shopper will fill out an entry form for each receipt entered. Multiple entries are accepted and encouraged, as long as entries accompanied by an equal number of receipts.

“Any current receipt at a business on South Padre Island qualifies,” emphasized Dianna Harvill at the SPI Chamber. “Any money spent on a purchase or service counts.”

It pays right now to keep track of your SPI receipts from the grocery store, a bar or restaurant, a hotel, a gift shop or even a garage where you got an oil change. It all counts! Last year, more than a thousand receipts were turned in, benefiting many small, locally owned and unique businesses.

Multiple drop-off locations are set up for your convenience: The Cactus Flower, Calypso, Friends of Animal Rescue, Padre Island Brewing Company, Renee’s of South Padre Island, Ship Shape, Sisters Interiors, the SPI Birding, Nature Center and Alligator Sanctuary, the SPI Chamber of Commerce and the SPI Visitor’s Center. A receipt from any SPI business qualifies to enter the raffle, according

to the Chamber. The prize will be rewarded on December 19.

For more information, contact the SPI Chamber of Commerce at (956) 7614412 or visit www.spichamber,com They’re located at 4113 Padre Boulevard on SPI or you can email Info@spichamber.com.

$500shoppingspreewillberewardedtooneluckyislandshopper. Photocourtesywww.mombeach.com

Creative Features: While smartphones come with various built-in filters and editing tools, DSLRs offer a broader array of creative options through interchangeable lenses and external accessories.

Cost and Accessibility: Smartphones are more accessible and convenient for everyday use, while DSLRs usually represent a larger investment. However, for serious photographers, the quality and control provided by a DSLR can justify the cost.

It’s amazing how much a camera can elevate your travel experience. Taking my DSLR on this trip to Nebraska made all the difference. We explored various landscapes and encountered so much wildlife. Using my Sigma 200-600mm lens, I captured stunning shots that truly showcased the beauty around us.

The contrast between smartphone pictures and DSLR images is striking. While the

smartphone is convenient for quick snaps, it often falls short in detail and clarity, especially at a distance. My DSLR, on the other hand, allowed for crisp, vibrant photos that told the story of our adventures.

The DSLR offered an unmatched quality of light and focus which contributed to the emotion and narrative of each scene. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love photography; it’s not just about taking pictures but about capturing memories and experiences in a way that transports you back to that moment. Each shot I took added layers to our travel stories and helped document our adventure in a way that a smartphone never could.

I hope this helps you make your own decisions regarding which photography equipment will work best for you on your next foray! Until next time, you can catch me on www.KDWcreation.com and FB: photosbykdw

Kevin Wegner started his first job as a photographerinhighschoolandhasbeen

a professional photographer for more than 40 years. He specializes in food and wildlife photography and has worked with prominent companies like Bass Pro, Republic National, Ford, Sino Swearingen, Brinkman, and Thompson Arms, among many others. His Facebook page, called Thru My Eyes, gives Him the glory of Wegner’s talent through the eyes that God gavehim.

red male cardinal in the trees exemplifies that the DSLR is the better choicetothistypeofphoto.

(Eagle in tree taken with smartphone/ courtesy Kevin Wegner) Same subject, by comparison to first photo. This photo lacks thecolordepthandsuperiorfocusoftheone taken with the DSLR.

(Cardinal taken with DSLR. It shows full color vibrancyandsharpfocus/PhotocourtesyKevin Wegner) The vibrant

(EagleClose-uptakenwithDSLR/courtesyKevin Wegner) Photo portrays the superior color and focus of using a DSLR for nature shots, especiallyatadistance.

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