Gulfscapes Magazine Summer 2009

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AVEDA SKIN & BODY RETAIL CENTER NOW OPEN

VOL. 9, ISSUE 30, SUMMER 2009

CO-PUBLISHERS CRAIG AND VICTORIA MUNT ROGERS 361-548-6804 •

DAY SPA

INFO@GULFSCAPES.COM

ESTABLISHED

IN

2001

FOUNDER & EDITOR - VICTORIA MUNT ROGERS 361-548-6804 • VICTORIA@GULFSCAPES.COM PHOTOGRAPHY EDITOR - CRAIG ROGERS 361-548-6804 • CRAIG@GULFSCAPES.COM ADVERTISING - DALLAS K. STEVENS 361-548-6804 • DALLAS@GULFSCAPES.COM GRAPHIC DESIGN - SUZANNE SARTO 361-548-6804 • SUZE@GULFSCAPES.COM INTERN - KATIE PARRY 361-548-6804 • KATIE@GULFSCAPES.COM ONLINE EDITOR - INFO@GULFSCAPES.COM WWW.GULFSCAPES.COM SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS: 361-548-6804 SUBSCRIBE@GULFSCAPES.COM GULFSCAPES MAGAZINE C/O SUBSCRIPTION P.O. BOX 863 PORT ARANSAS, TX 78373 $5.95 SINGLE ISSUE COVER PRICE $16.95 FOR ONE YEAR (6 ISSUES) $28 FOR TWO YEARS (12 ISSUES) $36 FOR THREE YEARS (18 ISSUES) MAIL SUBSCRIPTION ADDRESS CHANGES TO: GULFSCAPES, C/O ADDRESS CHANGE, P.O. BOX 863, PORT ARANSAS, TX 78373 OR E-MAIL TO

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VOL. 9, ISSUE 30, SUMMER 2009 Gulfscapes Magazine is published by Craig and Victoria Munt Rogers, P.O. Box 863, Port Aransas, TX 78373. Subscription price is $16.95 for a one year subscription in Continental United States. Unsolicited manuscripts without return postage will not be returned. POSTMASTER, send address changes to address above. DISCLAIMER: Advertisements in this publication do not constitute an offer for sale in states where prohibited or restricted by law. COPYRIGHT 2001-09 CRAIG and VICTORIA MUNT ROGERS. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the Publishers. Usage fees are available upon request by calling 361-548-6804.

8 | SUMMER 2009 GULFSCAPES.COM

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contents

summer 2009

features 18

after the storm Mississippi artists Lori Gordon and Michelle Allee got knocked down by Katrina, but got back up. They are now stronger than ever, and so is their art.

64

beauty on the water Step aboard and catch the graceful curves and efficient elegance of the Caribiana Sea Skiff. We visit with Floridian Curt Morse and learn how he came to produce one of the most beautiful boats on the water.

68

the bays of texas The largely undeveloped middle Texas coast stretches for over a hundred miles, and is filled with bays full of fish, wildlife sanctuaries, and coastal characters. We spotlight this rare area of the Gulf and all it has to offer.

80

there be pirates here Sitting on the shore just off the Intracoastal Waterway in Alabama lies what could be the perfect waterfront hangout, Pirate’s Cove. Live Southern music, homemade food and plenty of grog make this a perfect port of call.

Come learn why the regulars are called Riff-Raff!

d

e

p

a

r

t

m

e

n

t

s

à la mode – Deux Amies Sleepwear, pg. 42

Beauty – Redfish Jewelery, pg. 61

Love in Paradise – Wonderful Waterfront Weddings, pg.46

Green Both Ways – Clean Marinas, pg. 76

Island Home – Caribbean Cuties, pg. 39

Faces – Flyfishing with Bob Shirley, pg. 58

Coastal Calendar – Gulf Coast Events, pg. 14

Sol Food – Pirate’s Cove, pg. 80

Worth the Trip – Hemingway Days, pg. 14

Re-Currents – Updates from our last issue, pg. 13

New Real Estate – Paradise on the Horizon, pg. 33

Message in a Bottle – Book Review, pg. 13

Along the Coast – World Billfish Series, pg. 17

Cover: Sitting around the fire-pit at Casa Mombasa, you’d swear you were in the wilds of Africa instead of the Texas coast.

Photo by Craig Rogers This Page: Get your grill on! It’s time for the premier seafood event in America, the Great American Seafood Cook-Off. Watch chefs from across the country represent their home state as they vie for the title of “King of American Seafood”. New Orleans’ Morial Convention Center, July 18, 2009. More on page 15. Photo by Craig Rogers GULFSCAPES.COM SUMMER 2009 | 9

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Postcard from Paradise As we gingerly step into the beginning of another hurricane season, it’s only fitting that we pause to reflect on our past. So in this issue, we take a look back at how Katrina affected the Mississippi coastal artist community. We’ll visit with Mississippi artists Lori Gordon and Michelle Allee, who share their stories of destruction, bewilderment and revival. It takes a lot more than a hurricane to keep Gulf Coast artists down.

Katrina also played a large part in the emergence of Curt Morse as the owner of Caribiana Sea Skiffs, a Florida boat manufacturer. He’ll share the unique path that led him to Pensacola and the boating industry. Curt is producing boats that are based on the graceful lines of Caribbean working skiffs, so they are as useful as they are lovely.

The graceful lines of a fly fisherman’s cast are now an ongoing part of Gulfscapes. We’re please that Bob Shirley, fly fisher, fly fishing educator and Board member of the Federation of Fly Fishers will be penning a column each issue about the fast growing Gulf Coast fly fishing scene. Our fishing acumen and stringers have grown in size after spending just one day fishing with Bob; we hope yours will too.

Leave it to New Orleans to create an event that’s more fun than fishing . . . The Great American Seafood Cook-Off. Well known chefs from around the country will represent their home states as they compete for the title of “King of American Seafood”. Come to the Crescent City on July 18 to witness the premier seafood cook-off in America. Gulfscapes will be there, so don’t hesitate to stop by and say hello!

Our spotlight this issue is on the Middle Texas Coast, a sprawling, mainly undeveloped part of the Lone Star State that is brimming with wildlife, great fishing and unique characters. Don’t miss Dean Johnstone’s account of life in the small Texas coastal town of Port Lavaca, a place where people still know each other, and time moves a little slower.

We hope you can slow down long enough to enjoy these slices of Gulf Coast life. We sure enjoy bringing them to you. See you soon!

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re-currents

followup A QUICK UPDATE FROM OUR LAST ISSUE

CALIXAS YACHTS COMING TO INGLESIDE, TX Calixas Yachts of Austin, Texas was featured in our Holiday 2008 issue. In the article, we mentioned that Calixas was in talks with the town of Ingleside, Texas about building a manufacturing plant. Ingleside was the home of Navy Station Ingleside that was recently closed by the government, resulting in the loss of thousands of civilian jobs. Calixas outsources its manufacturing, but wants to bring all manufacturing to Texas. It seems like the town and the company would be perfect for each other. The redevelopment authority for the base recently announced it would seek government approval on a plan that includes converting the old base to a business park and marina. Calixas is still part of that plan.

Calixas owner Montie Twining said, “My core commitment is to bringing back US manufacturing jobs and through ultra quality practices and ultra efficiency methods, make our workers king in the international community again. So for Calixas and the community, all things are go forward still.”

NEW TIM DORSEY BOOK ARRIVES - NUCLEAR JELLYFISH IS HOT! He’s baaaaack! Our favorite loveable mass murderer Serge A. Storms is returning for more fun, hi-jinx and the occasional offing of persons of questionable character who really deserve it.

if he’s only a heartbeat away from dying.

Again.

Making

another

appearance

as

Florida author Tim Dorsey, featured in our Holiday 2007 issue, has unveiled “Nuclear Jellyfish”, the 11 th book in his Serge Storms series.

Serge’s soul-mate nemesis is Agent

Nuclear Jellyfish finds Serge embarking on a new, exciting career as an

trying to get into, or maybe after getting

Internet travel writer/blogger. Accompanied by his perpetually ham-

into, Serge’s head. Mahoney manages to

mered assistant Coleman, Serge dishes out the goods on how best to

get a step ahead of Serge this time, but

soak up all the history and culture of Florida through travel. Helpful

is that enough to catch our hero? You’ll

hints are interspersed throughout, such as how to tell if a hotel hooker

have to read the book – no spoilers here.

Mahoney, who as usual has gone insane

Nuclear Jellyfish, By Tim Dorsey, HarperCollins Publishers, $24.99

is going to try to rob you, how to park your car in a hotel parking lot so

As a taste of what you’ll find inside Nuclear Jellyfish, here’s a few

the police won’t check your license plate, and how to con your way into

key-words: Historically relevant sex, glow-in-the-dark deformities,

an upgraded room. Using these tips, the money you save will cover the

hotel drink coupons, a naked woman in a shark cage, John Travolta,

price of the book in no time!

diamond theft, exploding cigarette lighters, garden hose-boa constric-

And could it be love for Serge? True love, not that kind he had when

tor death, letter to Dick Cheney, toe nail clippings, Lynyrd Skynyrd triv-

he married that crazy redhead in Torpedo Juice? So as not to spoil the

ia, Allman Brothers trivia, Eric Clapton trivia, NASCAR museum, a two-

suspense, let’s just say his new love is a stripper . . . er, dancer and she

tone 1971 AMC Javelin, Florida bridge history, Elvis trivia and View-

loves Florida history. Do I hear wedding bells?

Master sex.

Coleman is his normal, happy self and serves as the stabilizing

Dorsey combines all those ingredients into a hilarious gumbo of

influence in Serge’s life. Proving that life is better if viewed through an

mystery, history and insanity, the holy trinity of the Serge Storms expe-

alcohol, marijuana and cocaine haze, Coleman is always a treat, even

rience. Grab a bowl while it’s hot!

GULFSCAPES.COM SUMMER 2009 | 13

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art&culture ALABAMA July 17-19, 2009 - 77th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo – Dauphin Island, AL. The nation’s largest saltwater fishing rodeo with more than 3000 fishermen competing for prizes, large jackpots, boats and other items. It is free to watch the fisherman unload their catch at the landing. Also enjoy music, food and kids marine educational tank. www.adsfr.com July 22-25, 2009 - Outcast Blue Marlin Classic - Orange Beach, AL. Part of the World Billfish Series. 850-4571450.

July 29-Aug. 2, 2009 - Orange Beach Billfish Classic Orange Beach, AL. Part of the World Billfish Series. www.orangebeachbillfishclassic.com July 30-Aug. 2, 2009 – 11 th Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Jazz Fest – Mobile, AL. A four-day schedule of events at multiple venues in the Mobile metro area. A key highlight is a spectacular jazz festival held in beautiful Bienville Square, featuring local, regional and internationally renowned jazz artists. Most of the events are free and open to the public. www.gcehjazzfest.com Aug. 1-2, 2009 - “Battle of Mobile Bay” Weekend Dauphin Island & Gulf Shores, AL. Fort Gaines Historic Site (Aug. 1) & Fort Morgan State Historic Site (Aug. 12). Cannon salutes, oral accounts of the battle, blacksmith demonstrations, music, artillery fire and more mark the 145th anniversary of the day that Admiral David Farragut stormed into Mobile Bay with a fleet of 14 frigates and four ironclads. www.dauphinisland.org FLORIDA

Ernest Hemingway look-alikes conclude the annual "Running of the Bulls," outside Sloppy Joe's Bar in Key West, Fla., Saturday, July 21, 2007. A facet of the island's annual Hemingway Days festival, Key West's version of the bull run is much shorter and far safer than its counterpart in Pamplona, Spain.

HEMINGWAY DAYS HONORS AUTHOR’S LEGACY KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Stocky white-

alikes, a one-man play exploring Ernest’s

bearded Ernest Hemingway look-alikes, aspir-

life and motivations, and a three-day mar-

ing writers and fans of Hemingway’s work are

lin tournament recalling his devotion to

to converge on Key West Tuesday through

the deep-sea sport.

Sunday, July 21-26, for the island city’s 29th annual Hemingway Days.

The festival’s leading literary event is the announcement of the winners of the Lorian

The festival, which begins on the 110th

Hemingway Short Story Competition. Now in

anniversary of Hemingway’s July 21 birth,

its 29th year, the internationally recognized

honors the legacy of the American literary

contest awards $2,000 annually to emerging

giant who lived and wrote in Key West

writers of short fiction.

throughout the 1930s.

Lorian Hemingway, best known for her

Events include a look-alike contest for

powerful memoir “Walk on Water,” is to

Hemingway imitators, a leading American

announce the victorious writers and introduce

short story competition directed by the

the first-place story at an 8 p.m. reception

author’s granddaughter, literary readings and

Friday, July 24. The awards gala is to take

book signings, a museum exhibit of rare

place at Casa Antigua, 314 Simonton St.,

Hemingway memorabilia, a zany “Running of

where Ernest Hemingway stayed during his

the Bulls” spoof featuring Hemingway look-

first visit to Key West in 1928.

14 | SUMMER 2009 GULFSCAPES.COM

July 11, 2009 - 25th Annual Underwater Music Festival - Big Pine Key, FL. Looe Key Reef. A quirky concert broadcast underwater for divers, snorkelers and the occasional mermaid emphasizes reef preservation. The submerged songfest is held at Looe Key Reef in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. www.flakeys.com July 11, 2009 - Pensacola Beach Air Show featuring the Blue Angels - Pensacola Beach, FL. www.visitpensacolabeach.com July 16-19, 2009 - Bay Point Billfish Invitational Panama City, FL. Part of World Billfish Series. www.baypointbillfish.com July 21-26, 2009 - Hemingway Days - Key West, FL. The 29th celebration of the legendary author’s work and lifestyle features literary readings, a theatrical premiere, short story competition, fishing tournament, Sloppy Joe’s Look-Alike Contest and a pre-birthday “party” commemorating Ernest’s July 21st birthday. www.fla-keys.com July 31- Aug. 8, 2009 - Key Largo Food & Wine Festival - Key Largo, FL. Art, wine, food, wine education, cookbook signing, wine dinners, free-pour wine events, progressive dinners, and a great time round out this festival. www.fkrm.com/foodandwine Aug. 1, 2009 - WaZoo - Tampa, FL. Lowry Park Zoo. Featured as one of the “10 Great Beer Festivals in the Country” by USA Today, this 14th annual tropical taste explosion features beers and beverages from around the world, food sampling from local restaurants, a wine garden and live music. www.LowryParkZoo.com

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art&culture Aug. 1-2, 2009 - 13th Annual St. Joseph Bay Scallop Festival - Port St. Joe, FL. Shipyard Cove. www.gulfchamber.org

Chefs are timed during competition.

Aug. 4-8, 2009 - Sarasota Slam HBA Fishing Tournament - Sarasota, FL. Part of the World Billfish Series. www.sarasotaslam.com Aug. 7-9, 2009 - Key West Lobsterfest - Key West, FL. Festivities include Friday’s Lobsterfest Duval Crawl, Street Fair and free concert Saturday, and Sunday Lobster Brunch. www.keywestlobsterfest.com LOUISIANA July 18, 2009 - Great American Seafood Cook-Off New Orleans, LA. Morial Convention Center. Top chefs from around the U.S.A. compete to be crowned The King of American Seafood. www.greatamericanseafoodcookoff.com July 30-Aug. 2, 2009 – Satchmo Summerfest – New Orleans, LA. Come celebrate the life of Louis Armstrong with a fun-filled weekend of activities and music including: Traditional Jazz, Contemporary Jazz, and a Brass Band; plus Children’s programming as well as speaker seminars with nationally renowned speakers. www.fqfi.org/satchmosummerfest Aug. 1, 2009 - Whitney White Linen Night - New Orleans, LA. Contemporary Arts Center and Warehouse Arts District. Break out that white linen dress and saunter on over to the annual summer art-walk.

Includes open art galleries, exciting live music on the street, fine cuisine, and refreshing specialty drinks. www.cacno.org Aug. 7-9, 2009 - Southeast Regional Hot Air Balloon Championships - Baton Rouge, LA. Pennington Center and BREC’s Perkins Road Park. Ballon Glow, Mass Ascention and fireworks, along with food and Children’s Village. www.laballooning.com Aug. 12-16, 2009 - Delcambre Shrimp Festival Delcambre, LA. This shrimping town celebrates its economic engine with a shrimp cook-off, queens pageants, fais-do-do’s, food booths, carnival rides, and the blessing of the shrimp boat fleet. www.shrimpfestival.net Aug. 27-30, 2009 - Gueydan Duck Festival - Gueydan, LA. Duck and Goose Calling contest, Skeet Shooting, Hunting Dog Trials, and Decoy Carving. This is in addition to great food, nightly bands, Junior and Senior Queen’s Pageants, a Grand Parade, Outdoor and Indoor Cooking Contests, Auction, arts and crafts, and to top it all off, a thrilling Carnival. www.duckfestival.org MISSISSIPPI July 11, 2009 - Dwight Yoakam - Biloxi, MS. Beau Rivage Theatre. American singer-songwriter, actor, & famous country music star performs live! www.beaurivage.com July 31-Aug. 2, 2009 - 15th Annual Carl Legett Memorial Fishing Tournament - Biloxi, MS. Point Cadet Marina. Fishing tournament with the proceeds going to local charities. Anglers compete for cash prizes. Hosted by the Home Builders Association of the Mississippi Coast. www.hbamscoast.com Aug. 7, 2009 - Delbert McClinton - Biloxi, MS. Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Texas Roadhouse Blues and Country. Performing “No Mississippi,” “Sandy Beaches,” “Two More Bottles of Wine,” and more – live! www.hardrockbiloxi.com

2008 King of Seafood - Chef John Currence of City Grocery in Oxford, Mississippi.

GREAT AMERICAN SEAFOOD COOK-OFF 2009 NEW ORLEANS – It’s time for one of our favorite events, the Great American Seafood Cook-Off! Nationally famous chefs from across the country will be in New Orleans July 18 at the Morial Convention Center to compete in this exciting “Iron Chef” style competition. Each chef will represent his/her home state while competing for the crown of “King of American Seafood”. Spectators are encouraged to cheer their favorite on, and will get to taste the actual dishes submitted for competition. Where else do you get to nibble on famous chefs’ cook-off dishes? No where but New Orleans!

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art&culture Aug. 22, 2009 - 5th Annual Martini Shakedown - Biloxi, MS. Beau Rivage Casino. What’s shaking? It’s a fundraiser like no other – you’ll shake your booty to some cool tunes, enjoy the best martinis on the Coast, and you could even win some fabulous vacation or other great items! Heavy Hors D’oeuvres, live entertainment, silent auction, hand painted martini glass favors and more! Proceeds benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation! www.wishms.org TEXAS July 9-12, 2009 - Deep Sea Roundup - Port Aransas, TX. One of the largest fishing tournaments on the Gulf. www.deepsearoundup.com July 15-18, 2009 - Poco Bueno Fishing Tournament Port O’Connor, TX. Legendary billfish tourney. Invitation only, deep water tournament attracts the biggest Marlin fishermen from around the nation. The town turns into a large party. 713-589-6013 July 18, 2009 - Music Night on The Strand: Irie Time Galveston, TX. Saengerfest Park. Music downtown every third Saturday of the month through September. www.galveston.com July 22-26, 2009 - Rockport Offshore Challenge (ROC) Rockport, TX. Key Allegro Marina. Offshore tournament with big Gulf billfish as the target. www.rockportoffshore.com

Drywall at Custom House first floor was gutted. Galveston was hit by Hurricane Ike in September of 2008. The Galveston historical Foundation has struggled to repair damages to the historical buildings and is sponsoring a 5K race to raise funds.

GALVESTON REBIRTH RACE SEEKS TO MAKE HISTORIC IMPACT GALVESTON, TX– On the one-year anniver-

districts contain a diverse mix of historic

sary of Hurricane Ike’s historic landfall on the

homes and buildings dating as far back as the

upper Texas coast, supporters of Galveston

early 1800s, including the home of Michael B.

Historical Foundation (GHF) will gather to par-

Menard, one of the city of Galveston’s

ticipate in the Galveston Rebirth Race. On

founders, built in 1938. Galveston is also home

Saturday September 12, 2009, the race will

to Ashton Villa, built in 1859 by James Moreau

begin at the Mardi Gras Arch in front of the

Brown, then one of the richest men in Texas.

historic Tremont House hotel. Participants in

Bishop’s Palace, built between 1887 and 1892,

the 5K will run or walk through Galveston’s

is another Galveston landmark, named by the

historic downtown, East-End, Silk Stocking,

American Institute of Architects as the 14th

and San Jacinto neighborhoods.

most important Victorian building in America.

“Historic Galveston Island has seen its fill

“Texans have long recognized that the his-

of calamities,” says Clay Wade, director of

toric buildings and neighborhoods of Galveston

events for GHF. “Its rich architecture remaining

are some of the local places that make the

stands as a testament to survival of storms,

island unique,” says Dwayne Jones, executive

fires and progress.

director of GHF. “This run will highlight sever-

“The preservation programs of GHF have,

al of our historic neighborhoods and the

for more than 50 years, been the catalyst for

threatened cast iron buildings downtown, but

its continued existence,” says Wade. “We are

it is an even larger symbol of our ability to

very excited to offer this fun, and healthy, new

endure and triumph over Hurricane Ike and its

event to our line-up of our other fundraisers.

consequences. This will be one of a number of

Support of the 5K run/walk will enable GHF to

local events that recognizes our inner strength

persist in keeping Galveston historic.”

as well as Galveston’s resilience as a coastal

Galveston’s commercial and residential 16 | SUMMER 2009 GULFSCAPES.COM

community.”

July 23-25, 2009 - The Great Texas Mosquito Festival Clute, TX. Clute Municipal Park. This is what makes Texas great - any excuse to throw a party! BBQ & Fajita Cook-Off, Horseshoe Pitching Tournaments, Washers Pitching Contest, Haystack Dive, Mosquito Calling Contest, Mosquito Legs Contest. www.mosquitofestival.com July 29 - Aug. 2, 2009 - Texas International Fishing Tournament - Port Isabel, TX. Offers fishing divisions that include bay, offshore and tarpon. TIFT is open to anglers of all ages and is the largest saltwater fishing tournament in Texas. www.tift.org Aug. 2, 2009 - Shrimp-o-Ree Festival and Blessing of the Fleet - Palacios, TX. Lots of shrimp to eat, entertainment to enjoy and drinks to quaff. www.palacioschamber.com Aug. 7-9, 2009 - Ladies Kingfish Tournament (LKT) South Padre Island, TX. SPI Convention Centre and Sea Ranch Marina II at SouthPoint. 28th year. 250+ competitors. Bay and Offshore Divisions. www.spichamber.com Aug. 7-9, 2009 - Texas Style Hot Summer Nites & The Beaumont Cruise - Beaumont, TX. Crockett Street Entertainment District. The largest open run car show between Houston and New Orleans. Features hundreds of classic and custom cars, trucks & motorcycles. www.txhotsummernites.com Aug. 7-16, 2009 - Tuna Does Vegas - Galveston, TX. The Grand 1894 Opera House.

The characters from Tuna, the third smallest town in Texas, are back! Place your bets on big laughs when the dynamic duo of Jaston Williams and Tony- Award nominee Joe Sears bring the town’s many colorful residents to life. www.thegrand.com Aug. 22, 2009 - Artwalk - Galveston, TX. View a variety of art in different areas of the island, starting in the Historic District. Galleries and other businesses stay open late and offer refreshments. 409-763-2403 To submit an item for the calendar, email event information to gulfscapes@gmail.com.

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thegoodlife 2009 world billfish series

Billed (pun intended) as “The World’s Richest Bluewater

ends in August. The following tournaments are left this season:

Fishing Events”, the World Billfish Series’ World Tour is the

Bay Point Billfish Invitational 2009, Panama City, Florida, July

premier billfish event in the world. Comprised of 70+ of billfish-

15-19; Outcast Blue Marlin Classic 2009, Orange Beach,

ing’s most prestigious tournaments, the WBS World Tour is fished

Alabama, July 22-25;

by over 30,000 anglers. The WBS works to promote the virtues of

Orange Beach, Alabama, July 29-August 2; Sarasota Slam - HBA

true sportsmanship and global marine conservation as ambassa-

Fishing Tournament 2009, Sarasota, Florida, August 4-8.

Orange Beach Billfish Classic 2009,

dors of big-game fishing. The WBS Anglers Club is a membership-

A spate of new tournaments will join the WBS World Tour

based organization for billfishing enthusiasts - any angler who

schedule in 2009 in the Caribbean and Pacific Divisions, giving

participates in any WBS-sanctioned tournament during the year

anglers the opportunity to further expand their event participation.

becomes a competition member during that calendar year and qualifies to earn WBS points.

The first to come aboard was the Treasure Cay Billfish Tournament, June 7-12. Also joining the World Tour this year is

Competition occurs all over the globe. The Tour is divided geo-

the 3rd Annual Fishing Tournament of the North Coast, held

graphically into eight divisions, including a Gulf Coast division.

July 30-August 2 in the Dominican Republic and hosted by Ocean

The top ten anglers in each of the eight divisions (Mid-Atlantic,

World

Southeast, Gulf Coast, Caribbean, Pacific,Treasure Coast, Mexico

Presidential Challenge of Central America series will expand

and South Pacific) will receive an invitation to the WBS Grand

their tournament offerings to include the nation of Panama. The

Championships.

stunning Hacienda del Mar Resort will host the PCCA’s Panama

The Gulf Coast portion of the 2009 tour kicked off in May and

Adventure

Park,

Marina

and

Casino.

Finally,

the

leg, July 3-5.

GULFSCAPES.COM SUMMER 2009 | 17

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THE ARTS ARE THE HOPE THAT CANNOT BE LOST OR BLOWN AWAY. Malcolm White, Executive Director Mississippi Arts Commission

IN 2005, THE HIGHEST STORM SURGE EVER RECORDED IN THE UNITED STATES OCCURRED DURING HURRICANE KATRINA, ON THE MISSISSIPPI COAST. THE TOWNS OF CLERMONT HARBOR, ANSLEY, LAKESHORE, AND WAVELAND we r e c o m p l e t e l y d e s t r oye d ; o t h e r s we r e i n u n d a t e d . Wa s h e d away i n t h e d e b r i s we r e m o r e t h a n j u s t h o m e s a n d b u s i n e s s e s . A r t g a l l e r i e s , a r t m u s e u m s , a r t i s t ’s s tu d i o s a n d p r i va t e a r t c o l l e c t i o n s we r e a l s o g o n e . Be fo r e K a t r i n a , t h e c o a s t o f M i s s i s s i p p i wa s h o m e t o a v i b r a n t a r t c o m m u n i t y, w i t h t r a d i t i o n s e n c o m p a s s i n g s u ch fa m o u s a r t i s t s a s Wa l t e r A n d e r s o n a n d G e o r g e O h r. W h a t h a s become of the art and artists in the three years since the deluge? Have the arts and culture been rebuilt alongside the homes and casinos?

M i s s i s s i p p i wa s fo r tu n a t e t h e h ave s o m e o n e l i ke M a l c o l m W h i t e , w h o u n d e r s t o o d t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f i n c l u d i n g t h e a r t s a n d c u l tu r e i n t h e r e b u i l d i n g p r o c e s s . W h i t e d e c l a r e d , “ Rewe av i n g t h e m a s s i ve fa b r i c o f a r t s , m u s i c , fo o d , a n d c e l e b r a t i o n i s a n ove r w h e l m i n g p r o j e c t . Th ey m u s t n o t b e a l l owe d t o e r o d e o r b e exc l u d e d f r o m t h e r e d eve l o p m e n t a n d r e b u i l d i n g , b e c a u s e t h e t r a d i t i o n s a n d c u s t o m s o f s eve r a l l i fe t i m e s w i l l b e wa s h e d away a s we l l .”

S av i n g t h o s e t r a d i t i o n s a n d c u s t o m s b e c a m e t h e g o a l o f t h e M i s s i s s i p p i A r t s C o m m i s s i o n . Fe d e r a l g r a n t s t o h e l p b u s i n e s s e s were

out

there,

but

obtaining

the

funds

from

the

Fe d e r a l

G ove r n m e n t t o o k s o m e i n g e n u i t y. Th e U n i t e d S t a t e s D e p a r t m e n t o f Labor had to be convinced to reclassify and recognize selfe m p l oye d a r t i s t s a s s m a l l b u s i n e s s e s i n o r d e r t o b e e l i g i b l e fo r t h e B u s i n e s s Re c ove r y G r a n t Pr o g r a m . “ Th e r e a l l y fa s c i n a t i n g p i e c e o f i t a l l i s t h a t t h e fe d e r a l g ove r n m e n t h a s a c tu a l l y r e c o g n i ze d a r t i s t s a s s m a l l b u s i n e s s e s a n d h a s a ck n ow l e d g e d t h e i r s i g n i f i c a n c e i n t h e r ev i t a l i z a t i o n o f a c o m m u n i t y,” s a i d S a l l y e K i l l e b r e w, A r t s R e c o v e r y C o o r d i n a t o r f o r t h e M i s s i s s i p p i A r t s C o m m i s s i o n . Th e C o m m i s s i o n wa s ch o s e n t o 18

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art&culture

Wo r k s b y A r t i s t L o r i G o r d o n w h o l i v e d i n C l e r m o n t H a r b o r M i s s i s s i p p i w h e n i n 2 0 0 5 , H u r r i c a n e K a t r i n a h i t t h e G u l f coast. Pictured on opposite page top left to right: A-5 Northeast Quadrant South; Photo of Artist Lori Gordon; and A-10 Angel of St. Rose. Bottom of opposite page A-2 Counter Clockwise. Above left to right, Father and Carnival.

a d m i n i s t e r t h e g r a n t s . I n c l u d i n g p r i va t e g r a n t s a s

way o f l i fe b e i n g o b l i t e r a t e d .

we l l a s fe d e r a l , by Fe b ru a r y o f 2 0 0 8 t h e C o m m i s s i o n

“ Be fo r e K a t r i n a r ava g e d o u r c o a s t , I u s e d t o d r i ve

h a d g r a n t e d $ 1. 2 m i l l i o n o f f u n d i n g t o a r t i s t s , c r a ft s -

d ow n s t r e e t s j u s t t o m a r ve l a t t h e b e a u t y o f my s u r -

men, and arts organizations and institutions, including

r o u n d i n g s . I s p e n t c o u n t l e s s m o r n i n g s o n t h e b e a ch ,

$150,0 0 0 from the prestigious Warhol Foundation.

s i tt i n g i n t h e s a n d w i t h a c u p o f c o ffe e a s I wa t ch e d

Th e M i s s i s s i p p i A r t s C o m m i s s i o n a n d t h e A r t s

t h e s u n r i s e ove r t h e G u l f. M y favo r i t e eve n i n g a c t i v -

Re c ove r y o ff i c e s t i l l o p e r a t e d a i l y a s a r e s o u r c e c e n -

i t y wa s t o b i c yc l e d ow n t h e b e a ch r o a d a t s u n s e t ,

t e r fo r i n d i v i d u a l s , o r g a n i z a t i o n s , a n d i n s t i tu t i o n s i n

l u x u r i a t i n g i n t h e c o o l b r e e ze c o m i n g o ff t h e s o u n d .

t h e r e b u i l d i n g a n d r e n ewa l o f a r t s a n d c u l tu r e . Th e

I could not paint enough local landscapes, or stand

g r a n t s a n d o t h e r p r o g r a m s h ave s t a r t e d s h ow i n g

t o s t ay away f r o m my s tu d i o fo r l o n g .

r e s u l t s , a s m o r e a n d m o r e a r t i s t s a n d a r t i n s t i tu t i o n s are

regaining

their

footing

on

the

scrubbed

Mississippi coast.

“ I n t h e a ft e r m a t h o f t h e s t o r m w h i ch r i p p e d o u r l i ve s a p a r t , I d i d n o n e o f t h o s e t h i n g s . I n s t e a d , I s we p t t h e s l a b w h e r e my h o m e u s e d t o s t a n d . I

Lo r i G o r d o n i s a M i s s i s s i p p i G u l f c o a s t a r t i s t w h o

p i cke d a m o n g t h e ru b b l e o f s p l i n t e r e d wo o d a n d

i s a p a r t o f t h e r e b i r t h . Lo r i , w h o l i ve d i n C l e r m o n t

ru s t e d m e t a l w h e r e my s tu d i o r e s t e d a m i d s t a b e a u -

H a r b o r, h a d t o a d j u s t t o h e r w h o l e c o m m u n i t y a n d

t i f u l g r ove o f b a m b o o . I l o o ke d fo r s i g n s o f l i fe i n GULFSCAPES.COM SUMMER 2009 | 19

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art&culture

Wo r k b y A r t i s t M i c h e l l e A l l e e o f P a s s C h r i s t i a n M i s s i s s i p p i . F r o m t o p l e f t t o r i g h t : P i c a s s o R e v i s i t e d ; Wo m a n i n Orange; and Majestic. Bottom row left to right: Michelle Allee; Mourning; and Rebirth.

w h a t u s e d t o b e my c o m m u n i t y, a n d I wa i t e d . I wa i t -

n u m b e r i n g n e a r l y 7 0 0 p i e c e s , I h ave s o l d t h e s e

e d fo r t h e i n s u r a n c e a d j u s t e r s t o c o m e a n d I wa i t e d

m i xe d m e d i a a s s e m b l a g e s , w h i ch i n c o r p o r a t e s t o r m

fo r t h e c o u n t y t o a l l ow m e t o g o b a ck h o m e a n d I

d e b r i s , t o p e r s o n s a n d c o r p o r a t e e n t i t i e s a l l ove r t h e

wa i t e d fo r s o m e s i g n t h a t t h i n g s we r e r e a l l y g e tt i n g

wo r l d . To d a t e , ove r 8 0 % o f t h e c o l l e c t i o n h a s b e e n

b e tt e r. I wa i t e d fo r t h e m o m e n t s o f a n g e r, s o r r ow

s o l d .” H a s t h e r e eve r b e e n a m o r e “ W h e n l i fe g i ve s

a n d fe a r t o p a s s . I wa i t e d fo r n i g h t s i n w h i ch I c o u l d

yo u l e m o n s , m a ke l e m o n a d e” s t o r y ?

s l e e p , a n d fo r t h e c e s s a t i o n o f t r o u b l e d d r e a m s

M i ch e l l e A l l e e , w h o l i ve s i n Pa s s C h r i s t i a n , i s

w h i ch I d i d n’t u n d e r s t a n d . I wa i t e d fo r t h e c l o ck o f

a n o t h e r a r t i s t w h o i s r e c ove r i n g o n t h e M i s s i s s i p p i

o u r l i ve s t o s t a r t t i ck i n g a g a i n .”

c o a s t . S h e fe e l s t h a t t h e s t o r m c a u s e d h e r p a i n t i n g

A ft e r a c o u p l e o f m o n t h s , Lo r i ’s l i fe c l o ck s t a r t e d

t o h ave m o r e d e p t h a n d e m o t i o n . S h e a l s o fo u n d

t i ck i n g . S h e m a d e a r t o u t o f d e s p a i r. L i t e r a l l y. Lo r i

t h a t a r t i s “ ve r y h e a l i n g a n d wo n d e r f u l t h e r a py. Th e

b e g a n t o m a ke p i e c e s o f a r t f r o m t h e d e b r i s l e ft by

e n d r e s u l t i s s t r o n g , e m o t i o n a l , a n d ve r y evo l ve d .

t h e s t o r m . “ W h i l e my p a i n t s a n d c a nva s e s h a d d i s -

E x p e r i e n c e s t e n d t o d o t h a t t o o n e’s wo r k .”

a p p e a r e d a l o n g w i t h my h o u s e a n d s tu d i o ,” s h e s a i d ,

20

Th e l o n g d ays a ft e r t h e s t o r m r e q u i r e d s o m e

“ I h a d a n e n o r m o u s a m o u n t o f n ew m a t e r i a l s ava i l -

transformations,

a b l e t o m e i n t h e fo r m o f m o u n t a i n s o f d e b r i s . Fr o m

f r i e n d s d u r i n g t h i s c r i s i s , a n d t h o s e f r i e n d s we r e

t h i s r e f u s e , Th e K a t r i n a C o l l e c t i o n wa s b o r n .

m o s t l y c o m p l e t e s t r a n g e r s t h a t j u s t wa n t e d t o d o

N ow

also.

“It

was

friends

helping

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art&culture t h e r i g h t t h i n g . K a t r i n a wa s a r e a l e q u a l i ze r fo r

event, drawing people from around the country.”

eve r yo n e . I t wa s a ve r y h u m b l i n g ex p e r i e n c e . I t i s

Ac c o r d i n g t o M i ch e l l e , “ Fo r t h e f i r s t c o u p l e o f

m u ch e a s i e r fo r m o s t o f u s t o g i ve t h a n r e c e i ve , a n d

ye a r s , fo l k s we r e b uy i n g s h e e t r o ck a n d n e c e s s i t i e s

we h a d t o l e a r n h ow t o h u m b l y a n d g r a c i o u s l y

o n l y. A r t s e e m s t o b e a l u x u r y t h e s e d ays , b u t I fe e l

r e c e i ve h e l p f r o m o t h e r s . We we r e a l l i n t h i s t o g e t h -

l i ke we a r e tu r n i n g t h e c o r n e r. S a l e s a r e s l ow l y b u t

e r, s o m e l o s t m o r e t h a n o t h e r s b u t i n t h e e n d , we a l l

s t e a d i l y r i s i n g .”

lost not only our ‘stuff’, but our community and way of life as we knew it. I am much stronger than I ever realized.

M i ch e l l e c o n t i n u e d , a n d a d d e d , “ Th e M i s s i s s i p p i Arts Commission has also been incredible, making

“ We h ave h a d i n c r e d i b l e h e l p s e n t i n t h e fo r m o f

ava i l a b l e b u s i n e s s r e c ove r y g r a n t s , a n d i n fo r m a t i o n -

a r t s u p p l i e s , r e b u i l d i n g o f s tu d i o s , a n d o ffe r s o f

a l s e s s i o n s o n a r t a s a b u s i n e s s . Th ey c o n t i n u e t o b e

g a l l e r y s p a c e o u t o f t ow n . There were offers of lending

a r e a l l i fe l i n e fo r t h e c o a s t a r t i s t s , a s t h ey wa n t u s

studio spaces from other artists as well. The emotional

t o s u c c e e d a s b u s i n e s s fo l k s a s we l l a s s e e i n g w h a t

support from all the volunteers has been incredible.”

an import ant draw the arts have in regard to

Bo t h a r t i s t s s e e t h e M i s s i s s i p p i c o a s t a l a r t c o m munit y rebounding . According to Lori, “The art

t o u r i s m . As we g r ow a s a r t i s t s , s o d o e s o u r c o m m u n i t y. I t ’s a w i n - w i n s i tu a t i o n .”

s c e n e o n t h e M i s s i s s i p p i G u l f C o a s t i s v i b r a n t . Th e r e

I f yo u ’d l i ke t o b e a p a r t o f t h e w i n - w i n s i tu a t i o n ,

wa s a p e r i o d i m m e d i a t e l y a ft e r t h e s t o r m w h e n

yo u c a n v i ew Lo r i ’s wo r k i n A l b u q u e r q u e i n Au g u s t .

a r t i s t s , l i ke eve r yo n e e l s e , we r e ex p e n d i n g a l l t h e i r

E ve r y Fe b ru a r y, s h e h o s t s h e r a n n u a l E p i p h a ny S h ow

e n e r g y o n t h e a l l - e nve l o p i n g t a s k o f s u r v i va l , b u t

a t G a l l e r y 2 2 0 i n Bay S t Lo u i s , M s . Vi s i t t h e k a t r i n a -

t h a t h a s p a s s e d . Th e r e a r e m o n t h l y ‘ a r t wa l k s’ a l l

c o l l e c t i o n by l o r i kg o r d o n . b l o g s p o t . c o m fo r u p d a t e s .

a l o n g t h e c o a s t , n u m e r o u s g a l l e r i e s m ay b e fo u n d i n

M i ch e l l e

is

currently

contributing

to

the

a l l t h e c o m m u n i t i e s , a n d t h e a n n u a l A r t s A l i ve ! Studio

“ D i s p l a c e d G u l f C o a s t A r t i s t ” ex h i b i t i o n s n a t i o n

Tour in Hancock County is a popular and well attended

w i d e . S h e c a n b e r e a ch e d a t ( 2 2 8 ) 4 5 2 - 13 6 5 . 5

CORPUS CHRISTI ART CONNECTION F I N E A R T G A L L E RY

L O C AT E D AT L A M A R PA R K C E N T E R 3850 S. ALAMEDA, SUITE 23

Ocean’s Silver by Kent Ullberg 32” x 59”

(361) 854-1057 ULLBERG@SBCGLOBAL.NET GULFSCAPES.COM SUMMER 2009 | 21

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ROCKPOR Luxurious home provides a s

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RT OASIS sensual safari

PHOTOS BY CRAIG ROGERS

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CASA MOMBASA LUXURY ALONG THE INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY

Sitting atop a small bluff overlooking Aransas Bay like a lion

artistically blends the bold and distinctive nuances of the

surveying the Serengeti, Casa Mombasa offers a taste of the

Mediterranean, African and Texas coasts. Brimming with rich

exotic wilds of Africa from the comfort of the Middle Texas

architectural detailing and unique appointments, the incompara-

coast. This unique estate has over 4700 square feet of safari-

ble atmosphere is a calabash of sophisticated drama and casual

inspired decore. Rare African sculptures adorn the walls of the

elegance. The awe-inspiring waterfront setting is embellished

great room, and a multi-level pool and patio are shaded by tow-

with panoramic views of lagoons and the Intracoastal Waterway,

ering palms. Evenings can be spent not around a campfire, but

an infinity edge swimming pool with a hot tub, fountain and

around an outdoor fire pit that is nestled in among bougainvil-

swim-up bar, multiple terraces, lush tropical landscaping, a seat-

leas and other tropical-colored flora.

ing area with a fire pit, a sensational outdoor kitchen, a cabana with a

Impeccably crafted, this stunning custom built residence

full bath and a boat lift with a convenient fish cleaning stand.

Furnishings from around the home are from many local Gulf coast retailers. Above, the outdoor furniture is from Maison in Rockport, TX. The red lights seen on the opposite page are from Citas in Port Aransas, TX. On the following pages, the round table between the living room chairs is from the Susan Castor Collection, locat i o n s b o t h i n P o r t A r a n s a s a n d C o r p u s C h r i s t i , T X . O t h e r i t e m s f r o m t h e h o m e a r e f r o m R i t a ’s i n C o r p u s C h r i s t i .

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Contact Leta Laymon of Key Allegro Real Estate Company at 361-729-3691 for information about this home.

The splendid design is punctuated with courtyards, graceful arches and terraces with spectacular views from every vantage point. A dramatic two-story entrance hall, with an impressive mesquite wood and travertine staircase, is the prelude to the great room with a free-standing fireplace and walls of glass overlooking a covered lanai. The great room features a coved ceiling, painted fresco style by a French artist who used coffee grounds and egg yolks for coloring. Bordered by French doors opening to a lushly landscaped courtyard, the dining room lends itself to entertaining in grand style. A state-of-the-art island kitchen is superbly equipped with dark granite countertops and top-of-the-line appliances, and an inviting nook is perfect for informal dining. The service wing encompasses an office/wine room with extensive built-ins and a spacious utility room. An exquisite formal powder room is incorporated into the entertaining areas and an adjacent media room/library.

28 | SUMMER 2009 GULFSCAPES.COM

The master closet is stunning. The shelves and cabinets were built by Dave D u n c a n . T h e b e d i s f r o m B u d d y Wa l k e r Furnishings in Corpus Christi, TX. Shutters are from Rockport Shutters.

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A sumptuous downstairs master bedroom suite overlooks the

shadows are fantastic. Sitting on the sofa, the view of the cat-

waterfront, covered terrace and pool area. A see-through fire-

walk and the contemporary lights hanging in the entry capture

place graces the bedroom and the lavish master bath, which has

the African Modern theme.” On contributions to the style:

a wall of glass viewing an enclosed courtyard. The sheer luxury

“Steve Aiken from Maison has made a contribution to almost

of the bath is complemented with a boutique-style closet with

every room.”

extensive built-ins and a packing island.

The builder: Bob Hardesty. His favorite room: “Whichever

The entry staircase ascends to a bridge-like balcony over-

room I am in at the time. It is a well thought out floor plan and

looking the great room, and two guest suites with private baths

very comfortable. We feel as though we are living at a resort.”

are enhanced by terraces capturing splendid views. The guest

Cost per square foot: $350-$400. Time to build: 10 months.

suite wing is ideally arranged for family members and visitors, and includes an exercise room.

A world unto itself, this magnificent waterfront estate home is an architectural masterpiece that beckons to the most discriminating.

The interior designer: Laney Crawford Furhman, from San Antonio. Her favorite room: “The kitchen - no surround, wraparound-the-room cabinets; no same heights; no totally matching cabinet fronts. My favorite concept is the use of different

Gulfscapes sat down with the owners, builder and interior

shades and types of wood as well as the honed and polished

designer of Casa Mombasa and asked each to describe their

granite.” Her description of the home: “This home takes you and

favorite room. Here are their answers . . .

your senses on a great journey without leaving. You can be in far

The owners: Bob and Kari Hardesty. Her favorite room: “The

away places. The home feels like paradise and looks exotic. The

living room is my favorite because of the clean lines, coved ceil-

tastes and sounds and smells can be transforming and alter your

ing fresco’d by Marie Lacroix, who lives in Port Aransas. We

mood. It’s not your typical coastal home-you could be anywhere

lighted venues for the architectural pieces, and at night the

your dreams and senses take you.” 5

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PARADISE ON THE HORIZON PORTLAND HOME PROVIDES COASTAL LUXURY In today’s economic environment, homebuyers are presented

sioned, tourist attracting aircraft carrier, USS Lexington. Playing

with many unique opportunities. In addition to fallen home

to this house’s strength, building designer Jon Hall incorporated

prices and foreclosure sales, there are other unusual situations

curved walls filled with windows in the dining room and the

in the marketplace that have created great value. One such situ-

study to maximize the views towards downtown Corpus Christi.

ation is homes that were started, but for one reason or another,

Two balconies provide pristine vantage points for viewing the

were never quite finished.

morning sunrise with a cup of coffee, while a downstairs cov-

In our search for beautiful Gulf-front homes, we stumbled across just such a situation in Portland, Texas. Portland is locat-

ered patio boasts not only a view, but also a kitchen for outdoor entertainment.

ed north of and across Nueces Bay from Corpus Christi. In the

The lovely views of Corpus Christi Bay are visible through the

1800’s, Indians traversed Nueces Bay by waiting for low tide and

Simonton StormBreaker Plus impact-resistant windows. The win-

then walking across on oyster beds. Today, the Nueces Bay

dows are not only a safety element, they are also energy effi-

Causeway, which splits Nueces Bay from Corpus Christi Bay, pro-

cient and qualify for up to $1500 in tax credit. Simonton also

vides a more modern path over the seven miles that separate the

offers Turtle Glass, a low light transmitting window that helps

two towns, and allows a commute from Portland to downtown

protect turtles, who sometimes mistake the glow of house lights

Corpus Christi of only ten minutes. Portland, with a population

along the beach with the moon, which turtles use to navigate.

of approximately 15,000, still has a small-town-Texas feel and

“The big advantage is that Turtle Glass has a lower visible light

friendliness. Its school district is considered to be one of the

transmittance for homes and structures so that the moon

top ten in the state.

appears as the overriding ‘brightest light’ to guide the turtles

On a hill overlooking Corpus Christi Bay, our featured home offers a view that few others on the Gulf Coast enjoy. The

back to the ocean,” says Christopher Burk, product manager for Simonton Windows.

delightful waters of the Bay shimmer, kite surfers colorfully

With construction 95% complete, this four bedroom, four

glide by, and on the horizon are the towering Harbor Bridge, the

bath, 3760 square foot home will make a spectacular estate

Corpus Christi skyline, and the silhouette of the now decommis-

upon completion. Minor finish-out in the interior and completion

Broker Sharon Murphree of MURPHREE PROPERTIES has this home listed. For information call 361-852-0335.

The builder is Diane McGroarty of DIANA HOMES. She can be reached at 361-949-2092. Jacob Pruitt of ISLAND LIVING FURNITURE AND DESIGN staged the home and can be reached at 361-949-1600.

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of a pool and landscaping remain for the new owners, said builder Diane McGroarty, owner of Diana Homes in Corpus Christi. Listing agent Sharon Murphree says the remaining construction will “leave the finishing touches to the new owner.”

Since our home hadn’t been decorated yet, we needed a little interior design help. We got it from Jacob Pruitt, Head Designer at Island Living Furniture & Design Center in Corpus Christi, who was kind enough to provide furnishings and decor for our photos. “Staging a house does help with the sale no doubt,” said Jacob, “but I am a firm believer that you can go 34 | SUMMER 2009 GULFSCAPES.COM

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overboard. You never want to over do it and leave buyers to

walls, three covered patios, outdoor kitchen, mahogany beveled

believe they are limited to what they can do in the space. Leave

glass front door, granite counter tops throughout, wood floors

them options. As far as colors and style are concerned I love the

that are hand scraped oil fumed oak, Ragnos porcelain tile, a

coastal look, but I have learned that accenting traditional or

glass block shower with rain head and four jet body sprays, a

contemporary with tropical or coastal ends up being timeless.

wall safe, a safe-room, a swimming pool, two tankless water

They compliment each other very much. You never want your

heaters and one standard water heater, and a three car garage.

room to be too uniform.�

The two story home is Energy Star rated and has a 10-year

Construction costs of this home were $159 a square foot.

warranty on the stucco. Providing a barrier to the sub-tropical

Special features include a split master bedroom, a great room,

heat and moisture that is pervasive along the Texas coast is

two stone fireplaces, study and dining room with curved viewing

IcyneneÂŽ insulated thermal envelope. Icynene is a spray-in, GULFSCAPES.COM SUMMER 2009 | 35

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NEW HOME RESOURCE GUIDE ISLAND LIVING FURNITURE & DESIGN CENTER Jacob Pruitt, Lead Decorator 14330 SPID Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361-949-1600 www.islandlivingfurniture.com SOUTH TEXAS PRIME DESIGN GROUP, INC. Jon Hall, CPBD AIBD, Designer 15217 SPID, STE. 201 Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361-949-6708 DIANA HOMES, INC. Diane McGroarty, Builder North Padre Island Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361-949-2092 www.dianahomesinc.com MURPHREE PROPERTIES Sharon Murphree, Broker 15217 SPID, STE. 201 Corpus Christi, TX 78418 361-852-0335 or 361-877-1144 www.murphreeproperties.com FERGUSON BATH, KITCHEN & LIGHTING GALLERY Zac Kay, Residential Sales Mgr. 5613 Saratoga Blvd., STE 101 Corpus Christi, TX 78413 361-994-7426 www.ferguson.com TUKASA Vienna Flores 6777 Weber Rd Corpus Christi, TX 78413 361-851-9440 SOUTH TEXAS GRANITE 1010 Memphis Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78412 361-334-2999 ENERSAVE SYSTEMS, INC. Bill McCord 3790 Wow Road Corpus Christi, TX 78413 361-561-1112 www.enersavesystems.com PLI-DEK SYSTEMS, INC. 41610 Date St., Suite 104 Murrieta, CA 92562 800-364-0287 www.plidek.com SIMONTON WINDOWS PO Box 1646 Parkersburg, WV 26102 800-746-6686 www.simonton.com

expanding foam insulation that seals every nook and cranny of a home, airtight.

“Icynene gives the owner absolute control over the house,” said Christy Holzschuh, Sales Manager/Estimator for Enersave Systems, Inc. of Corpus Christi, “A completely foamed house will result in electric bills that are onehalf those in a normally insulated home.” And Icynene is a green product; there are no off-gasses such as those found in other expanding foams. The reason?

Icynene uses water and heat for its expansion, not noxious chemicals.

Outside, tall, majestic palms sway near the 91 feet of waterfront, and flank a sun patio that’s perfect for enjoying the rays and water. Landscape lighting cascades down the elegant stairway leading to water’s

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 41)

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vacation&investment

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CARIBBEAN CUTIES COTTAGES BRING TROPICAL FLAIR TO PADRE ISLAND A bit of Nassau charm has popped up on Corpus Christi’s North Padre Island. Cute, charming and cuddly, a flock of color-

each have granite counter-tops and stone tile, along with upscale lighting fixtures.

ful Caribbean style cottages has landed near the Laguna Madre.

Outside, the different cottages are painted in unique color

Local builder Diane McGroarty, owner of Diana Homes, has

combinations; one is deep blue with yellow highlights, another

added several new cottages to this eclectic collection, known as

pink with aqua trim, another aqua with yellow trim. Nothing in

the Marquesas, which was started by Alex Harris, of Brite Star

the Bahamas can out-color these fun homes!

Construction in Corpus Christi.

Making these colorful houses even more desirable is their

Diane’s addition to the group all have two bedrooms and two

location. They are across the street from the Padre Island

baths, along with a host of high-end touches not usually found

Country Club, and just a few block from water access, either to

in cottages. Accent lighting hidden in the molding along the

the shallow fishing grounds of the Laguna Madre, or to the deep

ceiling in the master bedroom adds an elegant ambiance. An

blue of the Gulf. Nearby attractions include county owned Padre

arched ceiling, custom cabinets, stone tiled back-splashes and

Balli Park with beach and fishing pier, a seawall for walking and

granite counter-tops grace the kitchen, where a breakfast bar is

watching the waves, several public boat ramps, and great

thoughtfully included. The centrally located living room’s large

seafood restaurants. It’s as close to Nassau as you can get with-

windows provide a view over the back porch and yard. The baths

out leaving Texas. 5 GULFSCAPES.COM SUMMER 2009 | 39

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vacation&investment

Furniture staging and decorations by Jacob Pruitt of Island Living Furniture and Design located on North Padre Island (361)949-1600.

Marquesas townhome built

by Diane McGroarty of Diana Homes (361)949-2092.

Property realtor is Janice Minter of Re/MAX速 Padre Island (361)949-7362.

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PORTLAND HOME IS A UNIQUE FIND ON THE MARKET edge. The three-car garage also sports

focus of summer parties. But the grandest entertainment of all

an unusual, but very useful attachment — a climate controlled

will be simply sitting on the balcony, wind in your hair, watching

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36)

doggie-room, with a center floor drain and doggie door. Fido won’t sweat the summer heat!

The Texas sun can be tough on decking, but that shouldn’t be a problem with our Portland home. It has a Pli-Dek system that is 100% UV resistant, Class A fire rated, and comes with a 10year warranty. It also blends with the home, since custom patterns and colors can be incorporated in the finish. “Pli-dek gives you a durable walking roof with unlimited finish options,” said Jan Bagnall, National Tech Rep for Pli-Dek Systems, Inc. The gourmet kitchen features Thermador appliances: a double convection oven, six-burner gas stove, a warming drawer and dishwasher. A Hoshizaki icemaker is also installed. The upstairs game room comes complete with a Kitchen Aid beverage center, warming drawer and dishwasher.

This beautiful, one-of-a-kind home is designed to entertain.

Every aspect of this home reflects attention to detail. Above, marble counter.

Surround sound is built into the great room, as is a custom

the sea roll in, morning after morning, evening after evening.

entertainment center. The outdoor kitchen and pool will be the

Nothing out-entertains Mother Nature.

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SUMMER

F R I E N D L Y

F A S H I O N S

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SEDUCE

W I T H

T H E S E

E C O - F

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This Lemon Dixie Bra and Panty set by Enamore is made from 100% Turkish organic cotton for a soft comfortable fit.

This soft bra features a yellow gingham, adjustable straps and double hook and eye back fastening. Panties are made of 100% Turkish organic cotton for a comfy fit. The panties have a yellow gingham bow on one side.

Opposite page, Bamboo Parfait, is a lustrous black bamboo satin camisole and ruffle short set by Enamore. The set is trimmed with icing pink lace and candy pink satin bows. The camisole is cut on the bias and features adjustable bra straps for an easy fit.

Previous page, Deux Amies sleepwear.

Photos by Rene August. Hair and Makeup by Beatriz Lopez.

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E C O - F R I E N D L Y

A F T E R H O U R S

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Marital Aides

Destination waterfront weddings are hugely popular these days. The romance of a seaside wedding is quite alluring. But how do you manage to pull off all the arrangements with the facility and all the caterers?

Especially if you don’t live in the same town where you’ll be married?

No need to worry. There are helpful, motivated professional wedding planners who can handle everything.

Some waterfront wedding locations go out of their way to cater to out-of-town brides-to-be. A wonderful example is The Congressman Solomon P. Ortiz International Center in Corpus Christi. The Center is located on the water, under the towering majesty of the Harbor Bridge, overlooking Corpus Christi Bay. The Center’s picturesque backdrop makes it a natural attraction for waterfront nuptials. While the Center’s views will ensure your wedding will be visually memorable, it’s the event staff that makes sure all the details go off without a hitch.

Jayme Jeffries-Terrell, Wedding Sales Coordinator for Ovations Food Services, the company that manages the Center, is the kind of coordinator that every bride should have. “I work with a bride from our very first meeting, all the way till after the wedding. We don’t hand things off; you have the same person helping you from start to finish,” said Jayme.

How complete are Ovations’ wedding planning services? Jayme is helping plan a wedding for a bride who is working in Iraq. “We only met one time. She was referred to us by LaDeDa Events, whom we work with. I corresponded with the bride for months by phone and over the Internet to get everything right. I have a 150-page email file from her. She sent me photos of what she wanted and I went out and got it.” Jayme has arranged everything, from the photography to the cake to the mariachis to childcare to hotel accommodations, and helped plan the rehearsal dinner, bridal brunch and reception. “Our all-inclusive services were perfect for her. She won’t be home until ten days before the wedding, but she’ll arrive from overseas and it will be just like she’s been here a year making plans herself,” said Jayme.

When Jayme says “all-inclusive” services, that means she and Ovations handle every aspect of the wedding and reception. “That’s the only way we would do it. We make sure the bride and groom can enjoy the wedding without having to worry about whether their DJ or baker is late, or if the flowers are right,” she says. Brides meet with Jayme for a full hour at their initial meeting. Each wedding is custom designed-they did away with package deals. Jayme found that “by customizing each wedding to the individual tastes of the bride, the cost comes out about the same as for a package, but the bride gets everything she wants, and nothing she doesn’t.”

Jayme credits Ovations’ success in putting together a wedding via long distance to her co-workers teamwork and to the network of event professionals and vendors they have built up over the years. They do weddings almost every weekend out of the year, and Jayme loves her job. You’ll love the fact that her services are included in the cost of renting the Center. That’s right . . . you pay for the Center rental and the food and other amenities. Her services are no extra charge. Try finding a better deal than that. #

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wonderful waterfront weddings Nothing is more romantic than a waterfront wedding. The

Selecting a beach that is private or less crowded will insure

siren song of the sea generates a natural romanticism, wash-

the privacy one expects with a wedding. If you intend to take

ing over the wedding party, infusing hearts with a radiant

your vows on a very public beach, Ryan suggests planning

glow like fireflies. This tide of emotion lifts the momentous

your date for one of the months where the beaches are less

occasion onto a higher plane, with more feeling, more affec-

crowded, “April, May, September, October. These months are

tion, more memories. Doesn’t every bride deserve this?

a lot less crowded and they are perfect for weather.”

As romantic and inspiring as waterfront weddings are,

Jenna Richards, wedding specialist from The Beach Club

they don’t just happen. They, like all ceremonies, require

in Gulf Shores, Alabama, which averages 2-3 weddings per

planning, effort and assistance. What are the most important

week, also recommends a Spring or Fall wedding. “Summer

considerations when planning a beach wedding? We consult-

weddings are more difficult and less flexible. Spring and Fall

ed wedding planners at four of the Gulf coast’s most sought-

are the best times for a wedding. It is not too hot and uncom-

after waterfront wedding destinations to get answers to this

fortable for your guests and occupancy mainly consists of

and other critical questions.

the wedding party.”

According to Ryan Olin, Inn Keeper of Henderson Park Inn

One other thing to remember about beach weddings–

Bed and Breakfast in Destin, Florida, “privacy, surroundings,

they are outside. “A backup venue in case of rain is very

and uniqueness” are the key considerations in choosing your

important; you must make sure that the venue you choose

venue. Ryan personally organized 40 weddings at the

offers a backup area in case of rain at no additional charge,”

Henderson Park Inn last year, which was voted one of the top

said Carla J. Thomas, Catering Sales Manager at the

five most romantic destinations in all of Florida.

WaterColor Inn & Resort in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Carla

Ryan lists privacy first because most people don’t want

also had this advice, “You want to make sure that if you are

to have a beach full of strangers show up at their wedding.

planning a sunset wedding that you offer enough time for the

Opposite page, photo from the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Alabama. Above, a great idea for a wedding photo.

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ceremony and pictures afterwards. Once the

reality you are paying for a beautiful back-

floating candles, sand, seashells and deco-

sun starts to set, it does so very quickly. You

drop which cuts your decor costs down dra-

rative sticks are becoming very popular and

should give yourself at least an hour before

matically. With having a waterfront wed-

common.”

scheduled sunset to begin your ceremony.”

ding you can be more laid back and cost

In addition to an increase in evening

At some point, someone is going to want

efficient with table goods and decorations.

candlelight ceremonies, Carla has seen

to know how much the wedding is going to

Simple elegance really works with a beauti-

more concern about eco-friendly wedding

cost.

ful backdrop and scenery.”

items. “Some brides are choosing flowers

Mandy

White

and

Melissa

Montgomery from the Grand Hotel in Point

There is a wedding “off-season”. From

that are more organic. There is actually a

Clear, Alabama have been planning wed-

around November to March, some wedding

company that makes eco-friendly wedding

dings at the Grand for 3 years. Together as

locations offer lower pricing. And weddings

rings (www.greenkarat.com). A lot of brides

a team they have planned over 100 beautiful

during weekdays are often less expensive

will purchase the pots or glass vases for

weddings. Here’s their take on the costs:

than a weekend wedding. Carla says at

their centerpieces and allow guests to take

“Ceremony location rentals are about the

Watercolor Inn, “We do offer off-season

them.” Watercolor Inn is catering to green

same for churches or outside venues. Brides

wedding packages for November – February

concerns also, said Carla, “WaterColor is a

are still interested in arbors and floral

which offers a great packaged rate for the

Two Palm Designated Hotel by the Green

arrangements as well as ceremony music

rehearsal dinner, reception, ceremony,

Lodging Association. Everything we do on

regardless of location. Outdoor wedding

homes, food and beverage and different

our property is eco-friendly. All of our food

receptions can be a little more expensive on

vendor credits. We also offer a lower site

is grown locally and is organic. We do not

the set up side of planning.”

fee for Sunday – Friday weddings during

use paper or plasticware, but instead offer

peak season.”

glassware, dishes, silverware and linen

But Jenna says cost depends on the type of waterfront wedding you are planning. “In

What trends are out there in the wed-

some cases they are more affordable! You

ding industry? “The only major trends we

What advice do our wedding experts

are paying a little more for the venue but in

have seen lately are the kissing balls or

have for the engaged couple when it comes

lanterns hanging from the trees, fans for

to putting everything together? Ryan says,

programs, and bamboo arbors,” said Mandy

“Get everyone together, wedding planner,

and Melissa. Jenna has noticed that, “more

florist, caterer, band, a few weeks before

and more people are staying away from tra-

the wedding. This way everyone acts as a

ditional small, round floral centerpieces and

team.” Jenna offers this, “It’s pretty typical

being more creative. Hurricane vases with

to have at least 3 meetings; one to view

cloth napkins.”

A Favorite Stop for Families & Fishermen!

• Conveniently located near Gulf beach, golf, world-class fishing & fine dining in Port A • Complimentary Deluxe Continental Breakfast • Free wireless Internet connection • Refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker in every hotel room, suite and condo • Horseshoes, sand volleyball court, BBQ pits, picnic area, outdoor heated pool & hot tub • Boat parking with electric plug-in • Fish cleaning station

Plantation Suites and Conference Center The Best Place to Stay in Port A 1909 State Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX

361-749-3866 or 1-877-836-FUNN www.PlantationSuites.com Mention this ad for a complimentary room upgrade. Based on availability at time of check-in.

51

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gorgeous gowns

Jenny Lee gown style 901, left, has a gathered bra, with a rouched silk satin bodice. The trumpet skirt is paired with a floral, beaded belt $4950. Gown style 907, a Jenny Lee strapless dress seen in the middle, with alencon lace over an organza trumpet gown with an organza insert on the neckline $4950. Pictured on the right is a halter Jenny Lee gown style 912, which has a beaded bra. This empire style gown has an organza side detail and a rouched silk tulle with a ruffled skirt $5709.

cool & comfortable According to Abegail Abellana, Jenny Lee Sales and Marketing Director, the main fabrication of gowns 907 and 912 is organza which is very light and soft to the eye. For beach weddings, you want something not too heavy. Style 912 has just a little bit of beading giving it texture but not over the top. Style 907 has the look of an all lace gown, but actually the sides are not covered with lace so you’re seeing the sheerness of the organza which gives it a subtle look compared to the traditional church all lace gown. Style 901 is in silk satin, but this is a perfect dress for brides who still want to look formal and elegant. All the dresses are form fitting and are all very easy and comfortable to wear, perfect for a beach wedding. www.JennyLeeBridal.com

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MAKING YOUR SPECIAL DAY UNIQUE Once you’ve decided to spice up your wedding by having it at the waterfront, why stop there? You’re already going to be by the water, so why not take advantage of the nearby water oriented entertainment?

Plan a beach bonfire, a fishing trip or surf lessons for your wedding party. Or if you’re lucky enough to be near Corpus Christi, Texas, you can have your entire wedding at an Aquarium. Specifically, the Texas State Aquarium.

The Aquarium can be yours for your ceremony and reception, and there are some really unique offerings. First, for the reception, your guests are seated through-out the Aquarium in the different exhibits areas. Each area offers great viewing of specific fish or animals. Where can you find a more interesting and entertaining backdrop? The ceremony itself can be outdoors, right next to the water, with the majestic Harbor Bridge as the backdrop,

The Dolphin Encounter program at the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, Texas is the perfect activity for making unique memories at your waterfront wedding.

with huge ships coming and going under-

wedding, “It’s a bonding experience. Bring

ing hands with one of the dolphins. If

neath. And lastly, your wedding party can

your groomsmen and bridesmaids in for a

you’re fortunate, you may get a kiss, too.

partake in a Dolphin Encounter. Yes, dol-

real personal experience they’ll never for-

And starting this summer, the Dolphin

phins! You and nine of your wedding party

get. During a unique time like a wedding

Encounter program expands to include an

companions can get up close and personal

weekend, this will just add to the fun and

in-water portion, where participants can

with the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins who

memories.” The hour long program will

get knee deep in dolphins. Ralls added,

live at the Texas State Aquarium.

take your group behind the scenes to learn

“You’re right there on the water and the

about dolphin biology and behavior and

dolphins are right in front of you. It’s a

Communications at the Aquarium says their

you’ll

really neat experience.”

Dolphin Encounter program is perfect for

trained.You’ll also get to feed and pet

making unique memories of your unique

them, and you’ll end the encounter by shak-

wedding, the Aquarium is hard to beat.

(weddings continued from page 51) property

Don’t let the little details bog you down,” say

your groom, eat the food, dance the night

and have a site tour, the second to meet after

Mandy and Melissa.

away! This is all about the two of you – and

Kristin Ralls, Director of Marketing and

see

how

the

dolphins

are

If you’re looking for that extra special, extra fun

all vendors have been chosen and plans are

Carla counsels, “Having a planner or coor-

coming together (usually 3-4 months before

dinator is important. It lifts the pressure off of

No matter how much time is put in, nor

the wedding) and the third the week of arrival

the bride and the family. Allow this person to

how much planning has occurred, there is

to go over everything and make sure all details

help plan and facilitate your day! The wedding

never a “perfect” wedding. Something will

are covered and there are no surprises!”

day is all about you! You shouldn’t have to

always come up. But with a waterfront wed-

stress over any of the small details.

Just

ding, you always have the benefit of one thing.

how to make this one of the most special days

show up and have fun! Choose a fun band or

You’re on the beach! How bad can things be?

in your life. “Everyone says the day goes by so

DJ! Really customize your menu to incorporate

Let the sea work its charm. Let the gentle off-

fast and it really does. Plan and be prepared

your families’ tastes, but don’t forget about

shore breeze fill the sails of your heart and

but when it arrives just relax and enjoy it!

your own! This is your day! Have fun! Enjoy

float you into your new romantic harbor. #

And now for the most important advice ...

don’t forget that!”

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Build On A Foundation That Will Stand The Test Of Time.

Pearson Fiberglass Composite pilings are stronger and more durable than wood, steel or concrete pilings. Over time, they won’t rot, rust or crumble, and they’re environmentally friendly. Before you build your new beachfront home, consider these facts: • The Pearson family has over 50 years of experience in the composites industry • Pearson Pilings are stronger than wood, steel or concrete

• Fiberglass composites have a lifespan of 100+ years • Specially engineered attachment points can better withstand the forces of wind and water Ask your architect or builder to specify Pearson Pilings, and build your home on a foundation designed to last.

For more information, visit pearsonpilings.com.

846 Airport Road ~ Fall River, MA 02720 508-675-0594 www.pearsonpilings.com 56 | SUMMER 2009 GULFSCAPES.COM

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Bo n e f i s h B i tt e r s

Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License

C l o u s e r M i n n ow

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Here are some items to include on your fishing trip!

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Hell’s Bay Boatworks 1520 Chaffee Drive Titusville, FL 32780 www.hellsbayboatworks.com

PROFESSIONAL CLASS FISHING BOATS If you’re a REAL flats fishermen, you need a REAL

“The Professional model has a much flatter bot-

flats fishing boat. And that’s exactly what you’ll get

tom which makes for a shallower draft of around 5

from the fine folks at Hell’s Bay Boatworks. They’re

inches, but it doesn’t handle waves as well as the

fishermen who make boats that work. And they rec-

Marquesa,” continued Chris. “But the Professional

ognize that different kinds of flats fishermen need

has lower sides, so it isn’t blown by the wind while

different things from their boats.

you’re poling the flats as much as the Marquesa with

Says Chris Peterson, owner of Hell’s Bay

its higher sides. Everything is a trade-off.”

Boatworks, “The company was started ten years ago

The Guide model is even more specialized. It is

because there were no boats that fit the needs for

designed to handle more weight in the front of the

flats fishermen. Flip Pallot, a famous fisherman

boat without changing the craft’s attitude in the

who’s had several TV fishing shows, came up with a

water. This allows professional guides to get more

better boat design.”

people fishing from the front of the boat.

That’s how Hell’s Bay got its start. All of its boats

No matter what model, each Hell’s Bay boat is

are technically poling skiffs. In generic terms they’re

designed to be a top-notch, flat water poling skiff.

called ‘flats boats’. But all flats fishermen are not

“Each boat will track through the water silently,”

the same; there are different boating needs depend-

Chris said. “Sound travels through water very quick-

ing on the local conditions. Hell’s Bay recognizes

ly and scares fish.” Even waves lapping against the

those different needs and makes boats to accommo-

hull make noise. Hell’s Bay’s boats are designed so

date each of them.

waves don’t make the lapping sound, which means

Chris compares three of Hell’s Bay’s boats, each

you can really sneak up on fish.

one similar in being 18 feet in length and narrow

Each Hell’s Bay boat is custom made and Chris

abeam, but each having a different purpose. “The

and his team will work with each buyer to design

Marquesa,” said Chris, “has more of a V-shaped bot-

and equip the boat to suit his or her desires. “We

tom and handles rough water very well. It is still an

will specialize a boat for every fisherman. From the

excellent poling skiff, but has higher sides to handle

type of console to electronics, we satisfy each cus-

waves while crossing the bigger bays. It draws

tomer’s needs”. With that much attention to detail,

around 7 inches of water.”

Hell’s Bay makes a REAL fishing boat.

Pictured on the left-hand side of page: Hedz Headwear is a seamless tube of soft microfibers that can be worn in a variety of styles.The microfiber fabric of the Hedz Headwear wicks moisture away from the skin. Hedz are available in a variety of colors and patterns at Rockport Marine at Cove Harbor.

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graduating from the University of Southern Mississippi, Curt embarked on a 15year career in the world of retail equestrian products, a business that eventually took him to Ireland for three years.

The lure of the beach eventually got to Curt, and he and his wife Connie moved to Pensacola. This led to a chance encounter that would change Curt’s life and vocation. Curt was spending a leisurely day at Pirate’s Cove, a waterfront bar and restaurant on Arnica Bay in Josephine, Alabama, just across the border from Florida. He saw an interesting boat tied up at the Pirate’s Cove dock, one like he’d never seen before.

He walked up, touched it, and “felt the life and energy in the boat.” He was mesmerized.

“It was a Caribiana Sea Skiff,” said Curt.

“I met the boat’s owner there who turned out to be the original founder of Caribiana, Lynn Rabren. This was in ’03 or ’04. Lynn was by trade a videographer. He’s done stuff for “60 Minutes” and filmed Bob Dylan before becoming a boat builder. I got to know and respect him. He and I were kindred spirits.”

Then Katrina hit. Curt saw the effect on Lynn. “It floored him. After the storm, he went to New Orleans and filmed the damage and recovery efforts. I think it got to him. Katrina also knocked out the production facility for Caribiana and I talked to Lynn about getting involved.

Lynn and his wife Joanne McDonough (who was a T.V. producer) had the artistic vision to design the boat, but the daily production chores weren’t what he liked. I thought I could handle the production side and marketing. We had the classic right brain versus left brain difference. Lynn was a creative, I was more business oriented. So I picked up the reigns from Lynn. I think the boat business had sidetracked him; I believe his true love was videography. After filming the effects of Katrina, he went back to it. Lynn and his wife had the

design expertise and had perfected the boat. Now he needed someone else to take the business to the next level.

Lynn said that Caribiana was like a kid.

He had raised the kid and gotten her through high school, but she needed to go to college. He thought I could get the kid to college. So I started looking into what it would take to get things up and running again. Now we’re building the boats in Pensacola.”

Curt didn’t have any formal education in the boat business, but he’d had plenty of business and marketing experience, which he put to good use making Caribiana a sought after boat. “Boats are a lifestyle. That’s how people see them. The equestrian industry was a lifestyle, too, so I had experience selling a lifestyle. We’ve sold our skiffs from the East coast to the West coast, and to some notable people. A lot of our sales come from our owners’ friends, who see the boat and say, ‘Hey, I want one of those’.”

A Caribiana Sea Skiff is 23’ long and 6’ abeam. Each is custom made. The fiberglass hull is hand laid. She’s rated for 90 h.p. but Curt and others say the craft works fine with a much smaller motor due to the narrow beam of the boat.

Curt explained, “The Caribiana is based on a dory design from the Caribbean. You see them all over the

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BY BOB SHIRLEY

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CITY OF FORT MYERS, FLORIDA, YACHT BASIN.

CLEAN Marinas GULF COAST MARINAS TAKE STEPS TO PROTECT OUR WATER QUALITY

Everyone wants clean water for our coasts. Some people are willing to go the extra mile to make sure their actions help, not hurt, our goal of clean water.

Marinas have a unique relationship with the water, being in a position to help keep their own actions from polluting, and also in a position to help all their boating customers do the same. In recognition of this unique relationship, the Federal Government in 1990 created a program called the Clean Marina Initiative. A joint venture between NOAA and the EPA, this program’s purpose is to help states clean up their water ways by creating their own Clean Marina Programs. The Clean Marina Programs are designed to get marinas to implement practices and install equipment to reduce pollution and also to educate boaters on how they can do the same on their boat.

The Federal Government created the program, but left to the states how to implement and fund it. Each state was given a consistent set of “management measures”, said NOAA Coastal Management Specialist Allison Castellan, “The management measures are designed to prevent or reduce runoff from a variety of sources, including marinas.”

In essence, the “management measures” are basic rules the marinas must follow in order to become a certified Clean Marina. These measures dictate how marinas are designed and operate, and involve regulation of marina flushing, shoreline stabilization, storm water run-off, fueling station design, sewage facility installation, fish waste management, petroleum control and others. Most marinas have to undergo some renovation and install new equipment to meet the Clean Marina requirements. Some of these renovations are quite costly.

One thing needs to be pointed out. The Clean Marina Programs are all volun-

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CORPUS CHRISTI MUNICIPAL MARINA IS LOCATED RIGHT NEXT TO THE BUSTLING DOWNTOWN.

tary. No marina has to comply with the program’s rules.

compliance. In order to round up funds, some states have

Only marinas that want to be labeled as Clean Marinas are

forged unusual alliances between state departments, fed-

required to comply. Since becoming certified involves

eral departments and private foundations. These grand

some expense, what does a marina get from being certi-

alliances have proven successful in Florida and Texas.

fied as a Clean Marina? Answer: A Clean Marina flag and logo to display. Why, you ask, would a marina owner, who

Florida has the most successful Clean Marina Program in

is a businessman, voluntarily incur such expenses to get

the country; being well funded is a key reason. Florida

certified if all they get for their outlay is a flag and a logo?

gets the bulk of its Clean Marina Program funding through

The answer is “grant money”.

two sources, the Clean Vessel Program, a federally created program that raises money by taxes levied on the sale

States with successful Clean Marina Programs (CMP)

of boat fuels and fishing equipment, and through Florida

have helped marina owners get grants and other assis-

Inland Navigation District (FIND) grants. These two

tance to make the changes needed to get their marinas in

sources provide funding for clean marina activities (enviGULFSCAPES.COM SUMMER 2009 | 77

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CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG MUNICIPAL MARINA IS A FLORIDA CLEAN MARINA.

ronmental education, best management practices imple-

Marina program and we help states reach out to boaters,”

mentation) and pump-out projects, said Amy Graham,

said Ms. Shingledecker. “Since clean marina programs are

Public Information Officer in the Florida Department of

organized at the state level there is not strong national

Environmental Protection. “Through Clean Vessel Act

coordination. It can be challenging for a transient boater

funding, the Department of Environmental Protection

from one state to locate the clean marina program and

enters into contract agreements with marinas to install

clean marinas in another state. For this reason we devel-

pump-out equipment. Clean Vessel Act funding provides a

oped a simple website with a map that links to the web-

monetary incentive for marinas to provide pump-out facil-

sites of the various clean marina programs around the

ities, and it does cover up to 75% of the installation

country.” The site can be reached at www.boatus.com.

costs,” she said.

Texas provides a shining example of how well the program One of the private organizations assisting states in imple-

can work. The Clean Texas Marina Program involves the

menting

coordinated efforts of several groups; the Texas Sea Grant

the

programs

is

the

non-profit

BoatU.S.

Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water. The

Program

BoatU.S. Foundation was involved in helping states devel-

Association of Texas, Texas Commission on Environmental

(which

administers

the

program),

Marina

op workable programs. Susan Shingledecker, Director of

Quality, Texas General Land Office and Texas Parks &

Environmental Programs for the BoatU.S. Foundation

Wildlife Department. These organizations help coordinate

says, “Our foundation has been involved with the devel-

regulation and funding. By using this combination of agen-

opment of Clean Marina programs around the country

cies, Texas is able to assemble a lot of support and fund-

since they first started. We have served on the Steering

ing sources. Texas, like Florida, was able to tap into funds

Committees for many state programs and try to provide

generated by the Clean Vessels Act.

practical guidance as states develop their programs.”

Through this unusual combination of agencies, the Clean “Boater education is a key component to any Clean 78 | SUMMER 2009 GULFSCAPES.COM

Texas Marina Program was able to coordinate a hugely

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MARINA AT FACTORY BAY IN MARCO ISLAND, FLORIDA. successful renovation of the Corpus Christi, Texas

Currently, Texas, Louisiana and Florida have individual

Municipal Marina in 2007. “We received around $4 million

Clean Marina Programs. Alabama and Mississippi have a

in grants over four years, which we were able to use as

joint Program. Louisiana started their program shortly

economic development funds that led to $13 million worth

before Katrina arrived. Linda Pace is the Coastal

of

Resources

improvements

to

the

Marina,”

said

Marina

Scientist

Super visor

in

the

Louisiana

Superintendent Peter Davidson. “We were able to replace

Department of Natural Resources. She said, “Louisiana

sheet-metal bulkheads that were 60 years old and col-

had just established its Clean Marina Program and certi-

lapsing. We installed 160 new boat slips to accommodate

fied two marinas in Orleans Parish when Hurricane Katrina

boats from 50’ to 150’, and each has its own pump-out

hit. We are working to get the program re-established as

connection. In addition, we built a Boaters Facility, which

one of our marinas was destroyed completely.”

is a building for the boaters in the marina that has meet-

There are currently three Clean Marinas along the

ing rooms, a laundry room, a library, a T.V. room and com-

Alabama coast, 90 along Florida’s lengthy Gulf coastline,

puters. Two new state of the art boat ramps were

19 in Texas and 1 in Louisiana. Many more marinas have

“Clean marinas often offer a more positive experience with larger grassy areas, better bathroom and shower facilities and have well maintained grounds and facilities as a result of clean marina requirements.” installed, one of which is wheelchair accessible and can

pledged to implement the measures required in order to

handle boats with drafts of up to 6’. And our pump-out

be certified as a Clean Marina.

facilities were greatly improved. These improvements led to us being chosen as host marina for the Texas

If you care about keeping our Gulf water ways clean, be

International Boat Show, which has brought in millions of

sure to look for the Clean Marina designation the next

dollars in revenue to the city in the last two years.”

time you’re looking for a place to dock. Individual boaters can help keep their waters clean by supporting Clean

To maintain the Clean Texas Marina designation, Davidson

Marinas, says U.S.Boat’s Ms. Shingledecker, “Choosing to

says the marina is the subject of an annual survey by the

keep your boat at a clean marina or to dock at a clean

state. “The state sends a team of inspectors out. They

marina when cruising is a simple step boaters can take to

look at everything from our pump-out facility to our fuel

support businesses that take care of our water ways.

and oil handling. We must have everything in proper

Clean marinas often offer a more positive experience with

order.” The efforts have been worth it. “Since our renova-

larger grassy areas, better bathroom and shower facilities

tion, the number of visiting boats that dock each year has

and have well maintained grounds and facilities as a result

risen from 850 a year to 1250 a year,” Davidson proclaimed.

of clean marina requirements.”

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RESTAURANT

•

BAR

•

MARINA

•

MUSIC

Pirate’s Cove L 300 19.2’ N / Lo 870 32.0’ W

P

irate’s Cove is a unique, 52-year-old waterfront restaurant, bar, mari-

people. The pizza bearing Paul’s name features pepperoni, ham, sausage,

na and music venue. It has it all. Classic grilled burgers, cold beer, a

green peppers, squeezed banana peppers, jalapeños, and mozzarella. It’s spicy.

place to tie up your boat and good Southern music next to the water.

The signature drink at the Cove is the Bushwhacker, personally recom-

It just doesn’t get any better than this.Owned by the Mueller family for over

mended by Curt Morse, owner of Caribiana Sea Skiffs. Paul says it’s a frozen

50 years, the wooden building housing the Cove has been standing next to

drink that contains ice cream, coconut rum, Kahlua, with some 151 rum on

Arnica Bay for 87 years. Currently run by Paul Mueller, Pirate’s Cove is a hub

top. If that doesn’t float your boat, there’s plenty more to choose from.

of activity for the area. In addition to the Wood Boat Festival, the Cove hosts

The Wood Boat Festival in May was started by locals who wanted to fea-

the Fast Women’s Regatta in July and the Lost Bay Regatta in September,

ture local wooden workboats, which are disappearing quickly. Other boats

each of which is sponsored by the Point Yacht Club. There’s also a fundrais-

now appear, including some that are converted from local workboats, or

er for autistic children in June, and the annual Frank Brown International

which are based on the local boat’s design. The Joshua, a 65’ sailboat recent-

Songwriters Festival in November. There are parties aplenty at the Cove,

ly built in Mobile, has appeared. Skiffs, kayaks, trawlers . . . you never know

including the annual Halloween Costume Party, the Thanksgiving Community

what kind of boat will show up for the show.

Pot Luck Dinner, the annual Christmas Party, and the Royal Order of the Disorderly Order of Riff Raff Parade and Ball (Feb. 22 if you’re intrigued).

Live music is a vital part of the Cove’s appeal. Paul describes the music offerings as “an eclectic mix, all over the place. Some events are high ener-

Paul said that he’s pretty sure the original building was erected as a gen-

gy, like Grayson Capps & the Stumpknockers, and others, like the songwriters

eral store during the Great Depression, when the nearby Intracoastal

festival, are very subdued.” The music is usually located outside on the cov-

Waterway was being constructed. After that, the store became a post office.

ered deck, unless the weather is bad. There’s music on Saturday nights, and

Paul’s grandfather was the original Mueller who purchased the Cove in 1956.

during warmer weather, also on Sunday afternoons.

Back then, there was a public beach next to the Cove, which had a diving board, a slide and a beach park.

When Grandpa Mueller ran the store, his wife cooked white tablecloth style dinners. “My grandmother fixed Bistro type meals, very upscale for the

Pirate’s Cove is also a marina, with 16 slips on the bayou behind the building and a dock out front on the bay for daytime docking. The bayou slips have electricity and are for longer stays. The dock is just for daytime use with no electricity or overnight dockage.

area. People would come from the Pensacola Yacht Club and the Mobile

The regulars at Pirate’s Cove are an eclectic mix, just like the music. They

Yacht Club to eat her meals. Her family owned a high-end hotel in Chicago,

can be lawyers or bankers to normal working folks to the occasional sailing

where she learned to cook. But unless someone called ahead with an order,

vagrant. No matter what their vocation or standing in society, they are all

she’d just fix what she wanted to fix,” said Paul.

officially know as Riff Raff. Yes, there’s a story. Around 25 years ago, Paul’s

The Cove currently serves tasty burgers, fried chicken, hot dogs, pizza

Dad applied for a permit to make an addition to the Cove. “Dad had to appear

and a variety of other fun foods. The burgers are their top item, featuring a

at a hearing to get the permit. Some people showed up to contest the permit

secret sauce that’s been around for decades. The exact ingredients aren’t

and said that the people who went to Pirate’s Cove were just ‘riff raff’. The

made public, but Paul let slip that there’s horseradish, gin, vermouth and

officer presiding over the hearing was a Pirate’s Cove regular. Dad got his

mustard in the family recipe. When asked about the portions, Paul said, “We

permit, and ever since, regulars are Riff Raff.”

don’t measure when we make it. You know you messed up if it’s the wrong color.” Paul also recommends the specialty combo pizzas, named for different

Drive or sail up to Pirate’s Cove for great food, fun music and the nicest bunch of Riff Raff you’ll ever meet.

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