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Welcome to The Corpus Christi Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming iRiE REBELS performance

• Corpus Christi Southside Farmers Market

• A deep-dive into the life of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez

• And much more…

All your news. None of the bias.

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Quote of the Week

“The mystery of life isn't a problem to solve, but a reality to experience.”

— Frank Herbert

Important Updates

🧑‍⚕️ Education

Former Tuloso-Midway student given diploma in 2017, now told he never graduated (link)

💼 Other

Kids learn importance of conserving water with CCW (link)

Corpus Christi Faces Heavy Rain Threat: Flash Floods Possible This Weekend (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Concerts & Performances

🎶 Junie B. Jones JR.
Harbor Playhouse, Corpus Christi, TX
September 1st | (More Info)

🎵 iRiE REBELS
Packery Bar & Grill, Corpus Christi, TX
September 1st | (More Info)

Family Friendly

🐄 Corpus Christi Southside Farmers Market
5800 Everhart Rd, Corpus Christi, TX
September 1st | 12:00 PM | (More Info)

🎨Painting with a Twist
Farmhouse Pumpkin Barn, Corpus Christi, TX
September 1st | 1:00 PM | (More Info)

Corpus Christi In Film

Movie of the Week: Selena (1997)

Filming Locations: Filmed at various locations in Corpus Christi, including the Quintanilla family home and Memorial Coliseum

In Selena (1997), Corpus Christi plays a significant role in bringing the life of the iconic Tejano singer to the screen. Filming took place at various locations in the city, including the Quintanilla family home, which added authenticity to the depiction of Selena's upbringing. Additionally, scenes were shot at Memorial Coliseum, where Selena performed some of her most memorable concerts. These locations not only ground the film in the real-life settings of Selena’s journey but also celebrate the city that was central to her rise to fame.

By using these genuine Corpus Christi landmarks, the film captures the cultural and personal significance of the city in Selena's life. The choice of these locations enhances the narrative, making the portrayal of Selena's story more relatable and emotionally resonant for audiences familiar with her legacy.

Famous People In Corpus Christi History

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez (1971–1995)

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1971–1984)

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was born on April 16, 1971, in Lake Jackson, Texas, to Abraham Quintanilla Jr. and Marcella Ofelia Quintanilla. Raised in a musical family, Selena showed a natural talent for singing at a young age. Her father, a former musician, recognized her potential and formed the family band "Selena y Los Dinos," with Selena as the lead vocalist. The family relocated to Corpus Christi, Texas, where they worked tirelessly to build their musical careers. Despite financial hardships, Selena’s early experiences performing at local events, fairs, and restaurants in and around Corpus Christi laid the foundation for her future success as a Tejano music superstar.

Rise to Fame in the Tejano Music Scene (1985–1989)

Selena’s rise to fame began in the mid-1980s when she and her band started gaining popularity in the Tejano music scene, a genre that blends traditional Mexican music with other styles such as pop and country. Her energetic performances, powerful voice, and charismatic stage presence quickly earned her a loyal fan base in Corpus Christi and across Texas. In 1987, Selena won the Female Vocalist of the Year award at the Tejano Music Awards, a significant achievement that marked the beginning of her rise to stardom. Selena’s success in a male-dominated industry was groundbreaking, and she soon became known as the "Queen of Tejano Music."

Breakthrough and National Success (1990–1994)

In the early 1990s, Selena’s career reached new heights as she began recording with EMI Latin, a major record label. Her 1992 album "Entre a Mi Mundo" was a commercial success, featuring hit singles like "Como La Flor," which became one of her signature songs. The album’s success propelled Selena to national fame, and she quickly became one of the most popular Latin artists in the United States. Her 1993 album "Selena Live!" won a Grammy Award for Best Mexican-American Album, making her the first female Tejano artist to win this prestigious award. Selena’s unique blend of Tejano, pop, and cumbia music, along with her bilingual lyrics, helped her cross cultural and linguistic barriers, making her a beloved figure among diverse audiences.

Connection to Corpus Christi and Cultural Impact (1994–1995)

Corpus Christi was not only Selena’s home but also the epicenter of her cultural impact. The city embraced Selena as one of its own, and she became a local icon, celebrated for her contributions to music and her positive representation of Mexican-American culture. In 1994, Selena released her album "Amor Prohibido," which included hits like "Bidi Bidi Bom Bom" and "No Me Queda Más." The album was a critical and commercial success, further solidifying her status as the "Queen of Tejano Music." Selena’s success brought national attention to Corpus Christi, and she played a significant role in promoting Tejano music to a broader audience. Her influence extended beyond music, as she became a fashion icon and a role model for young Latinas.

Tragic Death and Worldwide Mourning (1995)

Selena’s life was tragically cut short on March 31, 1995, when she was murdered by Yolanda Saldívar, the president of her fan club, in Corpus Christi. Her death shocked the world and led to an outpouring of grief from fans across the globe. Thousands of mourners attended her funeral in Corpus Christi, and the city became a focal point for tributes and memorials. Selena’s death was a profound loss to the music industry and her community, but it also highlighted the deep connection she had with her fans and the impact she had made in her short life. Her passing marked the end of a bright and promising career, but her legacy was just beginning.

Posthumous Legacy and Influence (1996–Present)

In the years following her death, Selena’s legacy has only grown. Her life and career were celebrated in the 1997 biographical film "Selena," starring Jennifer Lopez, which introduced her story to a new generation of fans. Corpus Christi has honored her memory with several tributes, including the Selena Memorial Statue, known as "Mirador de la Flor," and the Selena Museum, which attracts visitors from around the world. Selena’s influence on Latin music and culture remains profound, and she is often credited with paving the way for other Latin artists to achieve mainstream success in the United States. Her music continues to resonate with fans, and her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians and those who seek to break down cultural barriers.

Connection to Corpus Christi and Cultural Legacy (1996–Present)

Selena’s deep connection to Corpus Christi has left a lasting impact on the city. She is remembered as a local hero who brought pride to the community and helped put Corpus Christi on the map as a cultural hub. The annual "Fiesta de la Flor" festival, held in her honor, celebrates her life and music, drawing fans from around the world. Selena’s legacy in Corpus Christi is a testament to her enduring influence and the love she continues to receive from her hometown. Her contributions to music, fashion, and culture have made her a symbol of strength, resilience, and cultural pride.

Legacy and Recognition (1995–Present)

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez’s legacy as the "Queen of Tejano Music" is undeniable. She broke barriers in the music industry, becoming one of the most successful Latin artists of all time. Her influence extends beyond music, as she remains a cultural icon who represents the beauty and strength of the Mexican-American community. Selena’s life and career continue to inspire new generations of artists, and her music remains beloved by fans worldwide. Her contributions to Corpus Christi and the broader world have ensured that her legacy will endure for generations to come.

Key Achievements:

• Achieved international fame as the "Queen of Tejano Music," breaking cultural and linguistic barriers in the music industry.

• Won a Grammy Award for Best Mexican-American Album for "Selena Live!," making history as the first female Tejano artist to win the award.

• Left a lasting cultural legacy in Corpus Christi, where she is celebrated as a local hero and an international music icon.

Summary: Selena Quintanilla-Pérez’s journey from a young singer in Corpus Christi to an international music sensation reflects her extraordinary talent and determination. Her deep connection to Corpus Christi was central to her identity, and her contributions to the city’s cultural legacy are profound. Selena’s legacy as the "Queen of Tejano Music" and a beloved cultural icon continues to inspire, ensuring her place as one of the most influential figures in Latin music history. Her music and story remain a source of pride and inspiration for fans around the world.

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-Yannick Lyons

Let’s Work: yannicklyons.com

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