On behalf of the Corpus Christi Geological Society and the City of Corpus Christi, let me extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to the 57th Annual Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies and the 54th Annual GCSSEPM meeting. Please accept our invitation and mark your calendars for October!

What can Corpus Christi offer?

The Venue: The Corpus Christi downtown and convention center are all located within a 2 square mile area so nearly everything is within walking distance. The convention center, excellent restaurants, clubs and the beautiful bay front are all right out of your hotel window.

The Program: This year’s theme is “Exploring the Third Coast” and our volunteers have put together an excellent program of papers, posters, field trips, and short courses that will help you attain your exploration goals. Additionally, they have developed a program of spouse activities, social activities and a golf tournament which should keep everyone busy. Also look for the details of our “Global Climate Change Forum.” Gloria Sprague and Bill Maxwell have assembled a diverse group of highly qualified and respected experts who will offer insight on the causes of global warming.

Non-convention activities: When Conventioneers come to Corpus Christi they tend to bring their spouses and families more than in other cities. This year the GCAGS/GCSSEPM convention is lucky to coincide with the 47th Annual Texas Jazz Festival (texasjazz-fest.org). This three day event will take place Friday through Sunday at Heritage Park, which is located near the convention center. Typically over 50 bands play over the three day event and they draw up to 50,000 people (an excellent reason to make hotel reservations early). For those who would rather participate than listen and golf isn’t your “bag,” the Corpus Christi Oilman’s Tennis Tournament (ccott.org) will be held at the Corpus Christi Country Club the 18th – 20th. This event offers an excellent chance to get some exercise, have some fun and cultivate industry contacts. It always fills up early so if you want to play act now.

In summary, come early and stay late. The Corpus Christi area is a perfect getaway for a long weekend of both learning and pleasure. See you in October!

Brent Hopkins & Dan Pedrotti