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PI-ISD names Valedictorian, Salutatorian

    By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON Special to the PRESS Port Isabel High School has chosen its valedictorian, Azul Albino, and salutatorian, Nicole Fleming, two young women defined by relentless effort and years of dedication. Their accomplishments are a clear reflection of their commitment to academics. For Azul Albino, the title of valedictorian came after …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/22/pi-isd-names-valedictorian-salutatorian/

SPI bets on arts, beautification to boost economic future

    By DIANTÉ MARIGNY editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com The South Padre Island Economic Development Corporation (EDC) took several strides toward community revitalization and long-term planning during its recent board meeting, approving two facade improvement grants, discussing stalled marina development, and adopting the 2025-2026 fiscal budget. A highlight of the meeting was the board’s unanimous approval of a …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/22/spi-bets-on-arts-beautification-to-boost-economic-future/

No Time to Wait: SPI officials push for hurricane readiness

(courtesy photo/weather.gov) By DIANTÉ MARIGNY editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com As hurricane season begins, the City of South Padre Island is encouraging residents, property owners, and businesses to take proactive steps to stay safe. With hurricane season stretching from June 1 through November 30, city officials emphasize the importance of having a preparedness plan in place before a storm …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/22/no-time-to-wait-spi-officials-push-for-hurricane-readiness/

Tarpons stay undefeated in 7on7

  By CONSTANCIO MARTINEZ, JR. Special to the PRESS The Port Isabel Tarpons 7on7 team competed once again this past Wednesday, May 14, in the Brownsville 7on7 league. The Tarpons kicked off the day with a 26-14 win over St. Joe. Then, in the second game, the competition ramped up against the Brownsville Lopez Lobos. …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/22/tarpons-stay-undefeated-in-7on7/

Moments in Time: Bond Posted for Jail Bird

  Moments in Time is a collection of recovered newspaper briefs and other publications, compiled by local historian, Steve Hathcock, offering a look back at the history of the Rio Grande Valley. Steve Hathcock is a local historian and a regular columnist for the Port Isabel South Padre Press. He has spent many years collecting …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/22/moments-in-time-bond-posted-for-jail-bird/

Concrete roadblock cripples local business

  By DIANTÉ MARIGNY editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com For nearly a month, Kirk Owens, owner of KC Auto Body on Maxan Street, has watched a stack of concrete block the front of his business. What began as a city street improvement project has turned into a costly standstill for Owens, whose once-busy auto repair shop has been reduced …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/15/concrete-roadblock-cripples-local-business/

SPI seeks feedback on Marisol Boat Ramp

  By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON Special to the PRESS South Padre Island wants to hear from residents regarding a proposed boat ramp at the western end of Marisol Street. A 30- day window for comments is now open, giving the community a chance to voice their thoughts. The comment period kicked off on May 8 …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/15/spi-seeks-feedback-on-marisol-boat-ramp/

Tarpons shine under pressure in 7on7 league play

  By CONSTANCIO MARTINEZ, JR. Special to the PRESS The Port Isabel 7on7 team is currently participating in Brownsville’s 7on7 league. Besides Port Isabel, the other teams involved in the league are Bro. Hanna, Bro. Rivera, Bro. Porter, Bro. St. Joe and San Benito. This past week, the Tarpons traveled to Brownsville Rivera HS to …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/15/tarpons-shine-under-pressure-in-7on7-league-play/

MMA returns to SPI

  By CONSTANCIO MARTINEZ, JR. Special to the PRESS Texas Fight League (TFL) organization will be returning to South Padre Island on May 31st as they kick off their TFL4: Return to Padre mixed martial arts event. The event will take place at the South Padre Island Convention Center and will feature 15 fights. One …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/15/mma-returns-to-spi/

Nature, neighbors gather for Birding Center’s sixth anniversary

  By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON Special to the PRESS The South Padre Island Birding Nature and Alligator Sanctuary celebrated its sixth anniversary on May 10, 2025, with a free event aligned with World Migratory Bird Day, drawing nearly 700 visitors to a vibrant showcase of conservation and community. Live music carried across the grounds, mingling …

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Permanent link to this article: https://www.portisabelsouthpadre.com/2025/05/15/nature-neighbors-gather-for-birding-centers-sixth-anniversary/