Author: Danielle Dews

Community, Texas

Beads on the beach : Barefoot Mardi Gras parade draws big crowds

Danielle Dews

Crowds packed the roads, dressed head to toe in purple, gold, and green, as vibrant floats rolled across the sand on North Padre Island.  Music filled the air, the sun shining brightly overhead, and the atmosphere buzzed with energy and excitement.  At Barefoot Mardi Gras, the beach turns into a celebration parade that brings many to the island.  This year’s Barefoot Mardi Gras drew an estimated 15,000 spectators, ranging from local Corpus Christi residents to out-of-town visitors, according to event representative Stephanie Hesch. Former resident Abigayle Millette attended the event with her friends and family for her third year.  “It’s…

Campus

Students seek cozy study spots across Del Mar campuses

Danielle Dews

According to Del Mar College students, locating a comfortable location to study or complete homework can be a challenge due to overcrowding.  To choose the best study location as midterms approach, students should plan ahead, arrive early, and be adaptable. Students who can study in a variety of environments have more options. For group work, open areas are good, while more secluded areas are best for reading or test-taking.  Student Perla Robledo, a nursing major, said her favorite quiet place to study is the fourth floor of the remodeled library because of the atmosphere and the view overlooking campus. She…

Community, Food

Kilates Coffee brings new roasts and blends to Padre Island 

Danielle Dews

A new coffee shop has opened giving locals and tourists another spot to enjoy high-quality coffee just off South Padre Island Drive in Loma Alta Plaza on Padre Island. Kilates Coffee officially opened its newest location in January. After seeing amazing responses to their original location at the Cabana Pantry, the company decided to open a bigger and brighter spot on the island.  “We took the leap and opened our newest and biggest location on North Padre Island,” owner Kathya Reppart said. Kilates is more unique than the typical coffee shop. The shop not only roasts its beans in-house, but…

Community

Barefoot Mardi Gras returns to the island for the 2026 parade on Saturday, Feb. 28

Danielle Dews

North Padre Island’s sand will transform into a parade route at Barefoot Mardi Gras Saturday, Feb. 28, bringing locals, Winter Texans, and visitors to one of the island’s biggest events of the year. This year’s beachfront event is anticipated to attract one of the biggest audiences ever due to record participation, an expanded route, and increasing attendance. The event, an annual fundraiser hosted by the Padre Island Business Association, supports local nonprofit organizations each year with a portion of the proceeds. “To our knowledge, we are the only parade that runs entirely on a beach in the country,” said event…