Inspire Coastal Bend Medical August/September 2014 by Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine

TOPS IN TEXAS

CHRISTUS SPOHN HOSPITALS EARN STATEWIDE RECOGNITION

THE NEXT LEVEL

ARE YOU READY FOR DENTAL REHABILITATION?

COASTAL BEND MEDICAL MAGAZINE

BEYOND THE PITCH

THE WORLD CUP AND THE TRANSFORMATION OF COLOMBIA

DREAM SMILES

DR. ASHLEY SMITH HOMETOWN INSPIRATION

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

ESTELA CHAPA AUGUST.SEPTEMBER 2014

DR. CLARISSA ESPARZA

REASONS TO START EXERCISING TODAY

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transport for critically ill or injured persons requiring medical or trauma facilities within our South Texas service area. Emergency assistance is provided to all persons regardless of their ability to pay.

www.haloflight.org 361.265.0509 I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

Alice 361-664-4888 路 Corpus Christi 361-882-5900 www.rivercityhospice.com I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

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Orthopaedic Associates of Corpus Christi

Announces the Formation of

bone & joint John M. Borkowski, M.D. / Frank A. Luckay, M.D. / Ryan B. Thomas, M.D. Charles W. Breckenridge, M.D. / Justin Klimisch, M.D. John P. Masciale, M.D. / Dawn M. Grosser, M.D. / Bernard M. Seger, M.D.

(361) 854-0811

Se habla espa単ol

601 Texan Trail, Suite #300 www.southtexasboneandjoint.com

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

Weight loss surgery done right…Locally! Surgical Weight Loss • Gastric Bypass • Gastric Sleeve • Gastric Band • Revisions Surgery in Corpus Christi!

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Several plans to fit your needs!

When it comes to weight loss surgery in Corpus Christi—Now There’s a Better Weigh

Restoring hope and health in the Coastal Bend Lloyd Stegemann, MD, FASMBS Director

5826 Esplanade Dr. • Suite 102 Corpus Christi

361-500-2898 www.BetterWeighCenter.com I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M 5

2ND ANNUAL ELITE CAMP

COASTAL BEND MEDICAL MAGAZINE

AUGUST.SEPTEMBER 2014

PUBLISHER ADRIAN GARZA EDITOR Allison Alvarado

ART DIRECTOR Liv Madison

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

INVITE ONLY CAMP IN SOUTH TEXAS FOR ELITE PLAYERS

Steven Alford Rebecca Esparza Sebastian Giraldo Tim Hamilton Lindsey Hendrix Sarah Tindall Dr. Ben Vela

PHOTOGRAPHY Dustin Ashcraft Raymond Gray Photography Carla Falconi Swallow

August 11-14th

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Michelle Recio Jessica Salinas

VISIT WEBSITE FOR DETAILS giraldoelitefutbol.com

www.inspirecoastalbendmag.com For advertising information, please call 361.548.1044 or email adrian@inspirecoastalbendmag.com. For editorial comments and suggestions, please email adrian@inspirecoastalbendmag.com.

GIRALDO ELITE FÚTBOL 361.442.1923

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6537 S. Staples St., #125 Corpus Christi, Texas 78413 Phone: 361.548.1044

CONTENTS AUGUST.SEPTEMBER 2014

PATIENT 08 10 12

Breaking New Ground Higher-Level Service Lifesaving Lessons

FEATURE 14 The Tops in Texas 16 Worth the Wait

COVER STORY

18 ESTELA CHAPA

The executive vice president and chief operating officer of CHRISTUS Spohn Health System knows the meaning of hard work, family and community.

PROFILES

22 DR. ASHLEY SMITH

This orthodontist provides affordable and professional orthodontic treatment for both children and adults in a fun, energetic environment at SmileLife Orthodontics.

26 DR. CLARISSA ESPARZA

With her growing dental practice and her dedication to helping patients love their smiles, this DDS has a bright future that can bring a smile to anyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s face.

FITNESS 32 Watch Your Life Change 34 Beyond the Pitch COVER AND TABLE OF CONTENTS PHOTOS BY: RAYMOND GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

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PATIENT orders have a variety of new options not available to them just a few short years ago.” One of the most common injuries is due to continuous repetition, like running. “Sometimes all that is really required is rest,” he says. “When I see this, my advice is that when the pain continues beyond a normal period of rest, it’s probably time to see a doctor. Don’t ignore the warning signs your body is trying to tell you. You can avoid a lot of needless heartache down the road.” Klimisch, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who is fellowship trained in adult reconstruction and joint replacement surgery, says he stays at the forefront of the latest technological advances thanks to his affiliation as a consulting surgeon with a wellknown global medical technology firm. “I’m able to train other surgeons from around the nation on the newest surgical techniques for hip and knee procedures,” he says. “Implant materials, designs and techniques have improved dramatically. Classic hip replacement components have typically been made of metal or plastic. Now we’re using a new category of hypoallergenic materials, which have the advantages of ceramics without the risk of implant breakage. These materials have wear rates that are dramatically improved compared to the previous generation of implants.” New technology allows doctors to match implants to a patient’s anatomy, recreating natural motion of hip and knee joints using computers. Ultimately, the goal is a faster, more efficient surgery with less blood loss and more successful outcomes overall. Raised in South Dakota, Klimisch joined the U.S. Army in high school. After serving with the 82nd Airborne Division as a paratrooper in Iraq, he became a physician’s assistant, but yearned for more. Soon, he enrolled in medical school at the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. After completing his fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, he was in private practice for

two-and-a-half years in Seattle, Wash., where he was also an assistant clinical professor at the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine. He moved to Corpus Christi to be closer to family and joined South Texas Bone & Joint in March of last year. Ultimately, solving problems for his patients drives his passion for teaching others. It is medical advances like genetic testing, more efficient use of pain management tools and better materials for the replacement of hips and knees that have aided this. For example, Klimisch recognizes patients are asked to move a painful joint after surgery for the purposes of healing faster, so the goal is blocking pain at every level. “We block pain at the nerves and the spinal cord,” he adds. “Many people get nauseated with traditional pain medication. We’re even working with a new type of anesthesia where patients can experience 72 hours of pain relief versus the traditional six hours. Controlling pain symptoms for longer periods of time helps patients have a more successful rehabilitation, which will help patients heal faster.” All these technological advances not only make Klimisch’s job easier to help his patients live better lives, but make things more fascinating and exciting for him as a medical professional. “I love it, and I always want to learn more,” he says. “I’m particularly excited about where we are headed in the way of ‘smart joints’ someday. What may be science fiction now may be what’s right around the corner very soon, and that is an amazing thought.”

SOLVING PROBLEMS FOR PATIENTS DRIVES KLIMISCH’S PASSION FOR TEACHING OTHERS.

BREAKING NEW GROUND

Dr. Justin Klimisch stays at the forefront of the latest technological advances in his field at South Texas Bone & Joint. By: REBECCA ESPARZA

econstruction of degenerative knee and hip problems is more advanced than ever, with groundbreaking techniques that make healing times quicker and have sent overall success rates soaring. At South Texas Bone & Joint, Dr. Justin Klimisch has seen dramatic changes in the field over the last few years, including many evidence-based advances that have given patients more options with better outcomes. Klimisch’s specialty is the treatment of hip and knee disorders, ranging from hip and knee injections to arthroscopy, partial knee replacement, hip resurfacing and total joint replacement. “Today we have a better understanding of the human anatomy and joint mechanics,” he marvels. “People with movement dis-

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For more information about the innovative treatments for hip and knee disorders at South Texas Bone & Joint, visit www.southtexasboneandjoint.com or follow the group on Facebook and Twitter. And to learn more about Dr. Justin Klimisch, visit www. justinklimischmd.com, or call 361-8540811 to make an appointment today.

WE TAKE GREAT PRIDE IN

KEEPING YOUR SMILE BEAUTIFUL For 30 years, over 30,000 patients have placed their trust in the Vela Dental Centers. With three offices in the South Texas area, we make sure excellent dental care is convenient, accessible and affordable. Vela Dental Crosstown, near Spohn Memorial Hospital, serves our downtown, Callalen, Robstown, and Portland areas. Vela Dental Southside, located at Holly and Everhart, serves as our flagship office, providing complex implant and dental rehabilitation for all of South Texas. Vela Dental Kingsville, located at 14th and Henrietta, serves all of Kingsville and the surrounding community. Our highly skilled team of dentists and staff take pride in keeping your smile beautiful or restoring your smile to the way you deserve.

WE HAVE THE ANSWER TO ALL OF YOUR DENTAL NEEDS • Fix damaged or painful teeth • Replace single or multiple missing teeth • Enhance your smile • Remove wisdom teeth & other bad teeth • Clean and prevent gum disease

BEFORE

AFTER - 6-unit bridge and fillings

AFTER - full arch rehabilitation with 11 porcelain crowns and 2 implants

AFTER - full mouth rehabilitation with 24 porcelain crowns

Benjamin Vela DDS & Associates • General Dentistry

SOUTHSIDE - 361.994.4900 CROSSTOWN - 361.884.2266 KINGSVILLE - 361.592.4373

veladental.com

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

PATIENT

Ben Vela, DDS, is the owner of Vela Dental Centers and a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists. For more information or to see if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a candidate to restore your smile with dental implants, visit Vela Dental Southside, located at 4822 Holly Road in Corpus Christi, Texas. You may also call 361-9944900 or go online to www. veladental.com.

Are you ready for dental rehabilitation? By: DR. BEN VELA

ain is quite often the primary reason for a visit to the dentist. These pain-focused visits result in dental care destined to fail due to more comprehensive problems already present, but not yet addressed. Improper bite, nighttime grinding, gum disease, older or ill-placed restorations, medical conditions, missing teeth, infections and new decay may all compromise oral health. Many people may receive comprehensive dental care without having to affect most of their teeth. Dental rehabilitation is a higher-level dental service that requires the treatment of multiple problems at the same time in order to provide the longest-lasting dental solution available. Dental rehabilitation generally involves the comprehensive care of all the teeth, including proper alignment and cosmetics, gum tissue, functional bite and smile, as well as treatment of dental decay. Teeth with excessive wear can be built up and lengthened in order to improve the bite and smile while increasing the longevity of restorations. Fixed restorations like crowns, bridgework and implants have extraordinary life expectancies (15plus years) as long as the surrounding dentition is healthy and protected. Patients in need of rehabilitation often are unhappy with their smile, have had recurring dental problems and generally have not been informed of all their options. Even if removal of all remaining teeth is necessary, new technology and techniques allow for fixed replacement and restoration utilizing dental implants. A comprehensive examination with a complete set of X-rays and diagnostic work-up is necessary prior to discussion of any treatment plan. Dental rehabilitation can be performed in as few as three or four visits depending on the needs of the patient,

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DENTAL REHABILITATION REQUIRES THE TREATMENT OF MULTIPLE PROBLEMS AT THE SAME TIME. with some of the longer visits utilizing sedation. With effective planning, a single-day makeover is possible to provide immediate results. Financially, many people are unprepared for the investment required to comprehensively care for their mouth. This fear of cost leads to avoidance, further neglect and more complex needs. Dental rehabilitation runs the broadest range of treatment costs due to the multitude of options. Many dental practices have financing options available, including extended payments for patients who qualify. Some treatment may also be extended or staged so as to be more manageable financially.

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HIGHER-LEVEL SERVICE

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is here

As a commitment t o your health, we now offer the latest advancement in Breast Cancer Screening.

3226 S. Alameda Street | 2825 Spohn South Drive Scheduling 361-888-8875 | radiologyimaging.com I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

LIFESAVING LESSONS

Diabetes self-management education helps save lives in South Texas. By: LINDSEY HENDRIX

exas is expected to have nearly eight million residents suffering from diabetes by the year 2040, according to a 2010 report released by the Texas Health Institute, the State Demographer’s Office and Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas. In South Texas, nearly one in four (20 percent) adults has been diagnosed with diabetes, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services, but many more have it and don’t know it. And in the Texas Coastal Bend, more than 31 percent of adults are overweight and 42.3 percent are obese. That means nearly three quarters of the population in the Coastal Bend has a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. In response to this epidemic, the Texas A&M Health Science Center Coastal Bend Health Education Center (CBHEC) Diabetes Education program provides resources on how to prevent and control diabetes for residents and health professionals in the Coastal Bend. Diabetes self-management education (DSME) is a critical part of care for those with diabetes, and according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), it is necessary to improve patient outcomes. The CBHEC

Diabetes Education program, which is accredited by the ADA, provides diabetes self-management classes and support to prevent the onset of Type 2 diabetes and to keep it under control once diagnosed. Classes are offered in English and Spanish in locations throughout the Coastal Bend. Over the course of four two-hour classes or a single eight-hour class, certified diabetes educators, registered nurses and a nutritionist teach basic information about diabetes, healthy eating and the importance of physical activity. Participants also receive blood glucose monitors and are taught how to properly test their blood sugar. Lab work is taken and assessed at the outset of the classes, which includes patients’ height, weight, body mass index, cholesterol, blood pressure, body fat percentage and Hemoglobin A1C. Health professionals use the Hemoglobin A1C test to assess a person’s average blood glucose (blood sugar) levels over the past two to three months. It does this by measuring the percent of hemoglobin (the protein in our red blood cells that carry oxygen) that has glucose attached to it. For people without diabetes, the normal range for the

“

WE EMPOWER PARTICIPANTS OF OUR PROGRAM TO MAKE A CHANGE.”

A1C test is between 4 percent and 5.6 percent. To control diabetes, the ADA suggests a target level below 7 percent in those who have already been diagnosed. “We have one patient that came to class who is losing her eyesight and needs assistance when walking for guidance,” said Delia Martinez, the program’s health coordinator. “She came in with an A1C of 7.3 percent, which is good, but now it is down to 5 percent and she has lost 47 pounds.” A key component to achieving success in a DSME class is follow-up care. Every three months for one year, CBHEC’s class participants are provided with complimentary follow-up labs and one-on-one consultations. Community health workers are also available to provide additional personal support when needed. “Follow-ups continue the education patients received in our class,” said David Leal, a health educator and nutritionist with the program. “We can answer questions that patients are likely to have after trying to apply the strategies they learned in class.” To lower A1C levels, Leal recommends patients take their medications as directed and keep their appointments with their health care providers and diabetes education program. “We empower participants of our program to make change – change that is appropriate in each of their lives and individual situations,” he said. In addition to DSME, the CBHEC program offers a variety of diabetes training programs in schools and workplaces throughout South Texas, and specialized training is provided to health care professionals and school faculty to ensure improved quality of care for diabetes patients. So far this year, the program has reached a total of 2,939 people. Because of its impact in the Coastal Bend, the program has plans to expand to a 26-county area of South Texas as part of the Texas A&M Healthy South Texas 2025 Initiative. These extended services will help Texas A&M achieve its goal of reducing preventable diseases, like diabetes, by 25 percent by the year 2025.

To learn more about the program or to schedule an appointment, please call 361-857-2945 or visit www.cbhec.tamhsc.edu/de.

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MINERVA STUDIO/BIGSTOCK.COM

PATIENT

I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

FEATURE

THE TOPS IN TEXAS

CHRISTUS Spohn Hospitals Shoreline and Memorial earn recognition in the Dallas Morning News’ list of the top 100 safest hospitals in the state. By: STEVEN ALFORD // Photos by: RAYMOND GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

SHORELINE

MEMORIAL

“

CHRISTUS SPOHN IS DEDICATED TO ROUTINELY LOOKING FOR WAYS TO IMPROVE PATIENT SAFETY AND THE LEVEL OF CARE WE PROVIDE.”

wo CHRISTUS Spohn hospitals were ranked in Texas’ top 100 safest hospitals by the Dallas Morning News after a review of more than 300 Texas facilities. CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-Shoreline was ranked eighth in the top 10 safest Texas hospitals, and CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-Memorial was ranked 87th out of the top 100 safest Texas hospitals. CHRISTUS Spohn officials said they were pleased to learn of the study’s results, affirming the health system’s commitment to providing high-quality care. “It’s an honor to be named in the top 100 safest hospitals in Texas,” said CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Shoreline and Memorial COO/VP Xavier Villarreal. “We strive each day to provide a safe, compassionate environment for our patients to heal when they enter our doors.” The newspaper published the investigative piece this summer entitled, “How Safe is Your Hospital?” The results of the piece are based on data released from 2011 and 2012 by the Texas Department of State Health Services. Using methodology and software developed by the federal government, the paper examined patient outcomes across a series of complications that medical researchers have deemed preventable. It calculated the performance of the top 100 hospitals — those with the highest volume of patients — on each of those measures, known as patient safety indicators (PSIs), according to the article. The data comes as hospitals are newly required to report information on patients admitted with pre-existing complications and on infections acquired during a hospital admission, giving reporters a clear understanding of just how much Texas hospitals are meeting state patient safety requirements. The study’s results are a reflection of CHRISTUS Spohn’s commitment to patient safety, according to Villarreal. “CHRISTUS Spohn Health System is dedicated to routinely looking for ways to improve patient safety and the level of care we provide,” Villarreal added. “This report affirms our confidence in the high-quality care that our nurses, physicians and clinicians deliver to South Texas patients.”

About CHRISTUS Spohn Health System CHRISTUS Spohn Health System is the region’s largest health care system consisting of six hospital campuses: CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi (Shoreline, Memorial and South), CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Alice, CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Beeville and CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Kleberg (Kingsville). The health system is consistently ranked a leading health system in the area, and it has received national recognition for several pioneering programs, including cardiac care, clinical excellence and oncology. For more than 100 years, CHRISTUS Spohn has been distinguished by its high-caliber staff and affiliated physicians, its comprehensive and innovative services and its long history of responding to the needs of the community it serves.

For more information about CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, visit www.christusspohn.org.

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WE WILL PUT YOU BACK IN THE GAME OF LIFE

TREATMENTS AND PROGRAMS FOR: Musculoskeletal Injuries Pregnancy (Pre/Post Natal Care) Diabetes Fall Prevention Neuropathy Cardiovascular Therapy Osteoarthritis Vertigo (Dizziness) Osteoporosis Athletic Rehab (Sport Specific) Thoracic-Outlet Syndrome Orthotic Evaluation/Fabriation Pre-Op/Post-Operative Therapy

ALL 6 LOCATIONS OFFER CAREFULLY DESIGNED AND SUPERVISED EXERCISE PROGRAMS IN STATE OF THE ART GYMS AND LARGE INDOOR HEATED POOLS:

CORPUS CHRISTI

CALALLEN

ALICE

5026 Deepwood Cir. • 361.854.2278 4040 Five Points Rd. • 361.241.7399 1302 E. 5th St. • 361.664.9675

PORTLAND 114 Lang Rd. • 361.643.8243

ARANSAS PASS 2150 W. Wheeler Ave. • 361.758.5199

ROCKPORT 1811 Broadway (a.k.a. Fulton Beach Rd.) 361.729.8777

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FEATURE

WORTH THE WAIT

March of Dimes recognizes CHRISTUS Spohn for its work to give more babies a healthy start in life. By: STEVEN ALFORD Photos by: CARLA FALCONI SWALLOW

Dr. Jason Bradford poses with a former patient during a special ceremony at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Alice honoring the hospital’s successes in delivering more healthy babies after the 39-week mark.

CHRISTUS SPOHN HOSPITAL ALICE

has reduced the number of elective inductions and caesarean deliveries performed before 39 completed weeks of pregnancy, earning March of Dimes recognition for their efforts. Hospital officials held a special ceremony to mark the recognition, bringing together former patients and their babies and the clinicians who helped deliver them into the world at full term. “We at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Alice, in conjunction with our physicians and March of Dimes, are committed to doing all we can to prevent premature births,” said Margot Rios, chief nursing officer at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Alice. Waiting to deliver after the 39-week mark gives a baby a healthy start at life, CHRISTUS Spohn officials said. During this time, babies undergo important development of the brain, lungs and other vital organs. CHRISTUS Spohn offers professional birthing classes designed to prepare the mother for the birthing process and to stress the importance of a full-term pregnancy. Worldwide, 15 million babies are born too soon each year, and more than one million of those infants die as a result of their early births. Babies who survive an early birth often face the risk of lifelong health challenges such as breathing problems, cerebral palsy, learning disabilities and others. Through Think 39, a locally driven partnership with delivering hospitals, NICUs and maternal child health care providers, the March of Dimes has been getting out the word in the Coastal Bend that “Healthy Babies are Worth the Wait.” The campaign urges women to wait for labor to begin on its own if their pregnancy is healthy, rather than scheduling delivery before 39 completed weeks of pregnancy. According to Rios, “We pledge to work together with parents, our qualified physicians and nurses to keep you and your baby safe and provide a healthy start to life.”

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AT CHRISTUS SPOHN HOSPITAL ALICE, WE ARE COMMITTED TO DOING ALL WE CAN TO PREVENT PREMATURE BIRTHS.” MIDDLE: CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Alice CNO Margot Rios and Dolly Dickson, director of women’s services, pose for a photo during a ceremony honoring birthing successes. BOTTOM: Babies once delivered at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Alice frolic and play during a special ceremony from March of Dimes honoring the hospital for increasing the number of babies born after the 39-week mark, which creates a healthier start at life.

For more information on CHRISTUS Spohn’s birthing services, visit www.christusspohn.org/birthingservices.

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CCRH is the

only free-standing

Acute Rehabilitation Hospital in the Coastal Bend Area You have a choice We understand that YOU HAVE A CHOICE when it comes to your rehabilitative care. At Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital (CCRH) we value teamwork and are connected at our core by the treatment needs of our patients. We are proud to be a freestanding acute rehabilitation hospital serving Corpus Christi, providing attentive and compassionate patient care to the community in which we serve.

Brain Injury • Amputations • Stroke • Neuro • Orthopedic CCRH is now part of the Ernest Health network of facilities. Eight of Ernest’s rehabilitation hospitals have consistently ranked in the top 10% of Inpatient Rehab Facilities in the United States by UDSMR®. Ernest Health strives for all their hospitals to receive this recognition. To learn more about CCRH and our services, visit our website at

CCRH.ernesthealth.com

5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414 • 361.906.3700 I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

COVER STORY

Meet Estela Chapa, the CHRISTUS Spohn Health System bigwig who has more than earned her reputation as “the nurse who helps people.”

HARD WORK, FAMILY AND COMMUNITY 18

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PHOTO BY: RAYMOND GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

By: steven alford

When she was a little girl, Estela Chapa and her family drove upon a horrible car wreck along the highway. She and her family rushed to see how they could help. A young Estela handed out blankets to the injured and stood by and watched as medical professionals rushed into action and provided CPR. It was a defining moment for the future nurse and now executive vice president and chief operating officer of CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, South Texas’ largest health care provider. “From that day on, I wanted to work in health care,” Chapa said. “I wanted to know how to save lives just like I saw on the side of that road.” The boardrooms and executive offices are a long way from the humble beginnings she and her six siblings experienced in Rio Grande City. She and her family split their year working between Texas and California picking fruit in the fields. It was a time of change; social upheaval was just down the road as labor and civil rights leader Cesar Chavez protested unfair conditions for migrant workers. Though they grew up poor, Chapa’s mother never let it define who they were or could be. “We didn’t always have the best,” Chapa reminisced, “but we were taught to make the best out of whatever we had.” When one of her eldest sisters became the first person in her family to attend college, the dream of rising up from her working-class beginnings became more real. During a field trip with her high school band, Chapa visited Corpus Christi for the first time. The sparkling bay front was a beautiful sight, she said – one that inspired her to work hard and return one day. Chapa graduated high school and enrolled in Texas Women’s University, earning a bachelor’s degree in nursing and later, a master’s degree of science in nursing administration. From there, she worked in several Texas hospitals, including Kindred Hospital, where she was named CEO of the Year by Kindred Health, as well as Corpus Christi Specialty Hospital, Driscoll Children’s Hospital and nearby Memorial Medical Center, now known as CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-Memorial. Chapa says she has deep ties to Memorial; it’s where she grew as a leader and learned how to trust her instincts and lead by example. “To me,

being a leader has always been about taking pride in what you do and making yourself responsible for the people you are working for,” she said. “I don't know everything, but I can recognize those skills in others that I don’t have. Being a good leader is about surrounding yourself with talented people and serving them.” It’s an interesting time for health care and the hospital where Chapa learned how to lead as a young nurse. CHRISTUS Spohn Health System has proposed a transformation of the Memorial campus, investing millions to replace the aging structure with a 40,000-square-foot family health center to provide preventative and outpatient services. “We’ve got to make a positive change in people’s lives moving forward,” Chapa said. “I think this transformation has given us the opportunity to do things differently. It’s about changing the way we deliver health care to create better outcomes – treating the whole person, not just the medical issue.” CHRISTUS Spohn has proposed naming the facility the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Family Health Center, honoring the legacy of Corpus Christi’s own civil rights pioneer. The hospital’s Level II trauma center and resident physician programs are proposed to move to nearby CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-Shoreline, which houses the health system’s nationally recognized neuroscience, stroke, cardiac and cancer programs. Chapa says it makes sense to consolidate those services when you look at the direction health care is moving – preventing diseases rather than just treating them. According to her, that’s what CHRISTUS Spohn’s new strategic plan is all about. That means providing services at the Dr. Hector P. Garcia Family Health Center to not just heal, but foster a healthier life for South Texas residents. It’s a new way of looking at health care that could be the norm as the industry moves toward treating patients not just in the four walls of a

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We’ve got to make a positive change in people’s lives moving forward.

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For more information about CHRISTUS Spohn Health System, visit www. christusspohn.org.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ESTELA CHAPA AND FAMILY

Always near to Chapa’s heart is her calling to care for others that began when she was a young girl.

hospital, but at many different care points in the community. CHRISTUS Spohn’s strategic plan to transform Corpus Christi’s hospitals and health clinics is estimated to cost $325 million – with no taxpayer dollars required. CHRISTUS Health has agreed to provide $275 million, the single largest investment the health system has ever made in one of its regions. The rest is planned to be raised by the region’s philanthropic community. That’s a big symbol of CHRISTUS Spohn’s commitment to the Coastal Bend community, Chapa said, ensuring Dr. Spohn and the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word legacy is here to stay for hundreds more years. Though it’s a busy time in Chapa’s life, she always makes time for her two children and five grandchildren. She and her husband of more than 30 years, Luis, enjoy taking camping trips and outdoor excursions, most recently taking the family to Alaska to see the breathtaking wilderness. But wherever she travels, always near to Chapa’s heart is her calling to care for others that began when she was a young girl. Since that day on the highway when she tended to car wreck victims, Chapa has been known by her peers as “the nurse who helps people.” Her talent for leadership and vision has been recognized widely in the communities she serves. Chapa has been named an outstanding community leader by LULAC, and later, she was honored with the Las Estrellas Award by the Hispanic Women’s Network of Texas. It’s no surprise for those who know her best. “On her outer core, she’s a tough woman,” said Mary LaFrancois, executive vice president of human resources for CHRISTUS Spohn Health System. “But once you get to know her, you learn just how much she is loved and respected in this community.”

Welcome to the SOUTH TEXAS BRAIN AND SPINE CENTER. Our surgeons provide neurosurgical care in many of the major hospitals in Corpus Christi, Texas. Our surgeons and staff provide individual and conservative treatment using the most effective and modern technologies available in the world.

SOUTH TEXAS BRAIN AND SPINE CENTER 1227 3rd Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78404

361.883.4323

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IT’S SO REWARDING TO SPEND EVERY DAY MAKING PEOPLE HAPPY.”

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BEST

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WORLDS With his focus on high-quality care and results, Dr. Ashley Smith provides patients with the smiles of their dreams at SmileLife Orthodontics. By: SARAH TINDALL Photos by: DUSTIN ASHCRAFT

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DR. ASHLEY SMITH ENJOYS MAKING A GREAT SMILE AVAILABLE AND AFFORDABLE FOR ADULTS AND CHILDREN WHO NEED ORTHODONTIC CARE. At SmileLife Orthodontics, conveniently located on SPID between Airline and Staples, the emphasis is on using modern, state-of-theart technology and products to provide consistent, high-quality care and results. Smith also strives to keep services as affordable as possible for patients and ensures that payment options and plans are accessible and easy. Along the way, he and his team like to have fun and enjoy interacting with patients and parents, too. Smith, who grew up in Las Cruces, N.M., says he has always been interested in the field of dentistry. “When I was growing up, one of my friend’s dads was a dentist, and I always thought it was a great profession,” he says. “I was interested and really loved the medical background.” However, Smith’s mind was on other matters when he began college. He spent two years at Western New Mexico University playing on the tennis team. “When I realized that I wasn’t going to be playing tennis the rest of my life, I decided to concentrate a bit harder on academics and pursue a different dream: becoming an orthodontist,” he continues. Upon graduating from UNM, Smith gained admittance to Tufts Dental School in Boston, Mass., where he achieved his doctorate in dental surgery. After graduation, he moved to Lordsburg, N.M., and went to work as a general dentist as the head of a dental clinic. “I enjoyed the work because I love working with people and also enjoy the medical side of it,” he says. “It was the best of both worlds.” Then an orthodontist at the clinic retired, and two dozen orthodontic patients became his. This resulted in Smith forming a friendship with an orthodontist practicing in Las Cruces. This interaction solidified his interest in the field of orthodontics, and he went back to school in 2010 to specialize in orthodontics; he graduated from the Roseman University of Health Sciences in Las Vegas three years later. He then bought Sun Orthodontix here in Corpus Christi, and the rest is history. He renamed the practice SmileLife Orthodontics, which has locations in Corpus Christi, El Paso and Las Cruces. The practices continue to grow, and they have a reputation for affordable and professional orthodontic treatment for adults and children in a fun and energetic environment. “There have been huge advances in orthodontic treatment in the last few decades, which some practices don’t utilize,” he says. “For example,

many places still use that material with the gummy stuff in it for molds of your teeth. We take 3-D scans of the teeth so we don’t have to use the old materials that tasted awful and made you gag. The scanner takes a digital mold of the teeth that is 3-D, and we can evaluate your teeth from all angles. “We also use brackets instead of bands on the teeth. This is so much less invasive for the patient, and the wires we use now are so much more gentle and comfortable than the ones used years ago. Kids get excited because we offer colored ties to go on your braces and they can pick out the colors they want, while adults may prefer our clear braces and Invisalign options. Anybody who needs braces can come see us; we have something for everyone.” Most importantly, Smith says, his office works hard to ensure that middle-class Americans who want and need dental braces can afford them by maintaining highly affordable pricing and offering third-party financing options. He also offers other services such as teeth whitening. “Whitening has been great on so many levels, not only for the patients who have just removed their braces and want to make their smiles perfect, but also for moms and dads who want to brighten their smile, as well,” Smith says. “You don’t have to be an orthodontic patient at SmileLife to whiten your teeth. Virtually anyone is a candidate.” While many people can benefit from braces, Smith says many parents appreciate knowing when it is appropriate to take their kids in for an evaluation. His answer is simple: All kids, regardless of whether or not their teeth are straight, should visit an orthodontist at the age of 6 or 7. This is when the doctor can identify problems like overbites and misalignment that can lead to issues later on. At this appointment, Smith can make a recommendation about when and if the child would benefit from braces. Most children, however, are not ready for braces until all of their permanent teeth have come in. SmileLife offers free consultations to anyone interested in getting an evaluation to see if braces would be beneficial. Some patients get referrals from their dentists, but anyone interested in an evaluation is welcome to call or stop by the office to schedule a free consultation with Smith. “Oftentimes, we can see patients for their consultation the same day that they call,” he says. Smith says his patients’ excitement at finally having a smile they can be proud of is his favorite part of the job, and that he enjoys his work each and every day. “Many of our patients are adults who couldn’t afford braces as kids,” he says. “They come in, and we give them the smile they always dreamed of having. I love seeing all of our patients able to show off their smiles in public and no longer having to hide the teeth they were embarrassed of. It’s so rewarding to spend every day making people happy.”

To find out more about SmileLife or to schedule your free consultation today, call 361-853-1900 or visit www.smilelifebraces.com.

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A Future to About With a growing practice and a sincere dedication to the dental field, Dr. Clarissa Esparza loves helping patients love their smiles. By: SARAH TINDALL Photos by: DUSTIN ASHCRAFT Dr. Clarissa Esparza is enthusiastic about her bright future in her hometown. In the past few months, she has bought her own dental practice, added staff to accommodate her growing patient list and renovated her offices to ensure that she has enough room for all of the growth. Esparza is proud to say she was born and raised in Corpus Christi, graduating from Incarnate Word Academy and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi before attending dental school at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas. Her career path was set at an early age; even as a child, she knew dentistry was the career for her. She spent her high school and college summers interning at the office of her mentor and mother’s friend, Dr. Cynthia Casillas. “I wanted to be just like her when I was growing up – so sweet and approachable,” Esparza says. Casillas provided the encouragement Esparza needed to continue to follow her dream. Watching her first extraction made Esparza wonder if this was

the right thing for her, and she was tempted to change careers, but Casillas told her to focus and keep at it, and eventually, Esparza fell in love with the work, begging to help with every procedure. After Esparza graduated in 2010, Casillas gave Esparza a spot in her office to get her the time and experience she needed to find a place of her own in another office. “She didn’t have room for me in her office that she shares with her dad, so she let me work in the afternoons while she went home to be with her kids,” Esparza says. “It was so kind of her to give me that chance!” Her big break came when Dr. Dawod offered her a place in his practice, which Esparza attributes to fate: Several people had recommended her to him, so he called her because he said her name just kept coming up, and somehow, he knew it was meant to be. Dawod ’s plan was to open a new office and install Esparza as the dentist there, which is the office she still operates out of I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

at 2802 S. Staples St. in Corpus Christi. Esparza describes their relationship as special: Dawod gave her all the support she needed as a new dentist just starting out, and she says she has enjoyed working with him immensely. “Dr. Dawod and his wife have two sons, and they call me the daughter they never had,” she says. “They’ve been so sweet – so giving.” Esparza bought the practice after her wedding (she married in late 2013), and she has been growing rapidly ever since. “For our patients, nothing has changed,” she explains, “and if I need to consult about a particular case, I can still call Dr. Dawod any time.” Esparza’s patients are coming in for everything from teeth cleanings and crowns to Invisalign braces. She recommends babies come in at 6 months for a checkup and recommendations on tooth care, including proper bottle use and curbing juice for optimal dental health, and she continues to see them every six months to ensure they’re progressing properly. “I love seeing kids, and they have fun with our vibrant staff and fun office,” she says, adding that kids should come in beginning at 2 for regular cleanings and continue going to the dentist every six months after that for the rest of their lives. Patients can also get their teeth whitened at the office, as well as get bridges, root canals, ex-

“I REALLY LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING ALL MY PATIENTS EVERY DAY AND BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS WITH THEM.” tractions, veneers and other cosmetic dentistry. Her practice is growing, so Esparza has recently hired more hygienists and other staff to ensure that her patients don’t wait too long to schedule appointments. She has also expanded her space

to accommodate more patients, so the expansion of the practice will not affect the top-quality standard of patient care that she has always set for her patients. “We’re excited about the renovations,” she says, “and should be done by late August so new patients won’t have trouble scheduling appointments.” She attributes her business savvy to her husband, who has run a successful salon business in Corpus Christi for years “and is always focused on goals, getting us to where we should be and making sure we are on target and keeping everything really fresh,” she says. And most importantly, Esparza says is excited about how well everything is going in the office. With a young, enthusiastic staff, she says it’s fun to go to work every day. “Everyone is smiling and making jokes and having fun,” she says, which keeps her patients smiling, as well. The reward for her is her relationships with her patients. “I love my job and really look forward to seeing all my patients every day and building relationships with them,” she says. “I enjoy helping them love their smile. I’m young and I want to grow with them, seeing their kids eventually and growing old with them.” Esparza is also dedicated to her hometown and wants to ensure that her story is an inspiration to local children (especially girls) that hard work can help them realize their dreams. She works with the university and Del Mar College, giving their dental students the opportunity to gain experience at her office. “Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi students participating in Biomedical Practicum shadow our staff in our office weekly during the semester,” she explains, “and Del Mar College students come every spring to learn from our assistants.” She has also participated in two mission trips, taking dental expertise to Third World countries. Esparza is looking forward to all the future holds for her expanding practice in Corpus Christi and to accommodating her patients’ needs for many years to come.

For more information about Dr. Clarissa Esparza or to schedule an appointment, go to www.clarissaesparzadds.co or call 361-852-3600.

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FITNESS

WATCH YOUR LIFE CHANGE Ten reasons you should start exercising today By: TIM HAMILTON

Fitness is much more than just looking good. It’s being capable. A greater level of capability means you have access to a much broader range of recreational activities. When you can experience more, life becomes a richer experience. Have you ever been confronted by limitations? Frustrated due to your inability to participate in activities, while those around you appear to be having a good time? The loss of 2 percent of muscle mass per year can result in a dramatic decline in your capability by the time you’re 65.

ENHANCE YOUR PERSONAL PRODUCTIVITY.

There’s a certain confidence that comes with the acquisition of physical strength. Who doesn’t want to perform daily tasks better? The

path to independence is achieved through practice and training. If you don’t do something to “sharpen the saw,” it will get dull and so will you, no matter your age. So if you want to get more stuff done and feel a greater sense of accomplishment, you need exercise. In the workplace, healthy, fit people tend to call in sick less and are more likely to get promoted. Give your career and your productivity a boost by making daily movement a habit.

IMPROVE YOUR MOOD AND OUTLOOK.

Did you know that exercise directly increases and balances key neurotransmitters (dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain,

immediately affecting your mood, energy and state of mind? When you exercise, you feel positive physical sensations, and you get positive physical side effects, not negative ones. It’s better than drugs! When you reinforce this daily, it becomes a habit, and the effects are even more profound and long-term.

BOOST YOUR SELF-ESTEEM.

It’s good to like what you see in the mirror. When you exercise, you tend to have improved body composition (more muscle, less fat). This always looks better than obesity! When you like yourself, your confidence grows, and others can sense it. This leads to positive social interactions, which is really good for both mental and physical health.

REDUCE YOUR RISK OF ILLNESS AND INJURY.

People who exercise sensibly enjoy a protective margin from illness and injury. They are more resilient, both physically and mentally. An accident that might put a weak, frail individual in the hospital (or worse yet, prove lethal) might be only a minor nuisance to a strong, fit individual. Strong people are harder to kill! Weight training gives you stronger connective tissue that doesn’t easily tear or strain. Greater bone density from weight training yields bones that don’t easily fracture. Aerobic exercise strengthens the heart muscle itself so it doesn’t have to work so hard. You build cardiac reserve, and your resting heart rate slows down.

BE A HAPPIER, CALMER PERSON.

Brain chemistry is directly affected by exercise. Your happiness IQ is directly affected by the levels and balance of neurotransmitters.

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IMPROVE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE.

BRAIN CHEMISTRY IS DIRECTLY AFFECTED BY EXERCISE.

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Blue Star Radiology Official Radiologists of the Dallas Cowboys

Recent breakthroughs in the study of the human brain show dramatic differences in levels of those who exercise versus those who don’t. Exercise has also been shown to reduce dependence on medication. It is possible to manage and control ADHD, stress, anxiety, hypertension and diabetes through properly supervised exercise. In clinical trials, exercise has repeatedly shown to be far more effective than Prozac, Lexapro, Ritalin and Zoloft. Exercise also often plays a key role for people recovering from various addictions.

OPTIMIZE YOUR BRAIN FUNCTION.

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Exercise improves long-term memory retention, grows new brain cells and sharpens your wit. Did you know that women who exercise are 50 percent less likely to develop dementia? That’s a huge number! Many disorders related to chemical imbalances can be controlled by exercise. If you want your brain to perform at its best, you can only accomplish that through regular bouts of legitimately challenging exercise.

REINFORCE THE HABITS OF HARD WORK AND DISCIPLINE.

Working out is more about developing a set of character traits than anything else. Hard work builds character. Challenging yourself daily to push through difficulty builds mental toughness. The mindset of achievement we embrace in the gym carries over into every other aspect of life.

People who exercise tend to develop more perseverance than those who don’t. Exercise is a victory over laziness.

LEARN THE ART OF PATIENCE.

Our culture today tends to promote a “give it to me now” mentality. Many things worth having in life are not acquired without hard work. In the gym, the lesson of patience is repeated and reinforced time and again. You don’t get something for nothing.

Michael B. Jones, M.D., DABR

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ENJOY THE PHYSICAL “HIGH LIFE.”

The bottom line is that we are all born movers. Exercise is hard wired into our DNA. We cannot thrive and perform at our best without it. Figure out what works for you, make time in your schedule, find a competent coach, get moving and watch your life change!

Tim Hamilton is the owner of SeaCity CrossFit in Corpus Christi, Texas. He has been training and coaching kids and adults since 1999, and he is a CrossFit Level I trainer and a USAW sports performance coach. For more articles on fitness, visit Hamilton’s blog at www.seacitycrossfit.com.

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FITNESS

D N O Y E B H C T I P THE

My thoughts on my most memorable World Cup and the transformation of Colombia

There were men outside of our house in Jeeps, donning assault rifles – some wearing masks, some not. The men were threatening to kidnap a family member who was a political figure in the small town of Pamplona. Panic spread through the house, and my brother and I were scurried through the back exit to find safety. The police and military were called. “Guerilleros” had brought the violence and terror of Colombia to our front doorstep. As the situation escalated, the adults began to quickly seek escape. As my parents were moving to safety, my father made a promise

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to my mother. He said he would not raise his kids in Colombia. He would not live a life of terror. He would not be part of the violence. He wanted better futures for his two children. Shortly after, we permanently moved to our new home: the United States. Colombia, however, has always remained in our hearts. The World Cup brought me a joy and happiness that I feel is almost inexplicable to most. Yes, the games were exhilarating and the goals were magical, but for me, Colombia gave me pure, unadulterated joy. I understand that soccer is a game. I teach this to my players every day. You must keep perspec-

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By: SEBASTIAN GIRALDO

tive that in life, there are things more important than fútbol. During heartbreaking losses or season-ending injuries, the idea that fútbol is not life or death is a tough message to swallow. But we must accept that it is a game. However, this beautiful game has instances where its powers transcend the pitch. Narcotic traffickers, guerillas and paramilitaries had Colombia trapped in their tentacles of violence and corruption for many decades. The result is that Colombia has been hidden to the world – our happy people, the rich culture, eclectic Latin beats and world-changing individuals. Colombia has changed, and it is being reintroduced to the world. For me, the World Cup serves as a metaphor for Colombia’s rebirth. We had a world-class team in 1994 that was among the favorites to win the trophy. They were halted by the dangerous socio-political climate of the time. In 2014, Colombia again came in with high expectations and hope. Today, Colombia is a booming economy that has opened its doors to the world. There are still problems, but the change is evident and hope permeates throughout the country. This “seleccion” had nothing holding it back, and as a result, they gave me my most memorable World Cup.

came the talk of the World Cup with their intricately choreographed goal celebrations. These were players who felt free and were enjoying themselves. When players are happy, there is beautiful fútbol. In my mind, the dancing celebrations were a five-second trailer for what Colombia offers the world: happy people who know how to have a good time. I tell people constantly, “Go to Colombia; you will fall in love with the country.” But more importantly, people fall in love with the people. I am overjoyed that people are noticing what I have known for a long time. Colombia and its people are special.

FÚTBOL IS JUST A GAME – BUT IT DOES TRANSCEND THE PITCH SOMETIMES.

My favorite moments: 1. The unity of the Colombian people

All Colombia was in yellow. With this team, there are no political or social divides. Everyone wore yellow for the same cause. We believed in and supported the seleccion, and they gave us a ride to remember. For one month, Colombia became a country united behind one cause. This is a significant change from the days where people feared to even walk the streets. This unity gives further hope that Colombia is transforming and entering a new age.

2. The dancing

I love to dance, and you will be hard-pressed to find a Colombian who does not. The team be-

3. The goals, the team and James Rodriguez

The narratives building up to the World Cup revolved around Brazil’s “joga bonito” and how a European team could not win in the Americas. Brazil played ugly, pragmatic fútbol, and Germany won the cup. The true narratives of the cup were constructed fluidly as the competition unfolded. Colombia brought the beautiful fútbol and showed that style and efficiency still have a place in the world game. The team came in with a lost superstar in Falcao. There were several recognized figures, but no one who was a household name … yet. You could feel the unity of the team. In their tactical discipline, their celebrations and their prank videos, Colombia showed why player chemistry and unity still matter in fútbol. United as they were, James Rodriguez could not be denied. He is now a superstar, and all indicators lead me to believe that we are in for a treat with this kid. So yes, soccer is just a game – and never forget to teach every player that there are more important things in life. But fútbol does transcend the pitch sometimes. And for those who were watching, Colombia’s success did not just mark our entry among the best of the world. It was a reintroduction to a country and its people. Colombia has opened itself to the world, and the world is better off for it.

Sebastian Giraldo is the co-owner of Giraldo Elite Fútbol. For more information, visit www.giraldoelitefutbol.com.

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We are much more than just another CrossFit gym. Our coaches have a combined 25 years of training experience. We have helped literally hundreds of people transform their lives.

Strength & Conditioning Personal Training Small Group Training Youth Training Nutritional Consultation Beginners Classes

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What happens when the world’s largest voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer teams up with Hollywood celebrities who are committed to supporting groundbreaking cancer research and treatments?? The American Cancer Society and Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) are pleased to announce a historic collaboration in the fight against cancer: two powerhouse organizations joining forces in the battle against a disease that kills more than half a million people in the US every year and millions worldwide.

STAND UP 2 FINISH THE FIGHT VIP VIEWING PARTY BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE

1724 N Tancahua St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 Friday, September 5th, 2014 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm The star-studded Stand Up To Cancer fundraising special will air simultaneously on ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS, and numerous cable networks on Friday, September 5, 2014. The American Cancer Society is hosting viewing parties across the nation to gather supporters for the partnership. We are thrilled to report that Corpus Christi has been chosen to host a Stand Up 2 Finish The Fight VIP Viewing Party!

Register TODAY at: www.standup2finishthefight.org $25 Registration includes official event T-shirt and commemorative luminaria, as well as appetizers, drinks, fantastic auction and raffle items, special guest speakers, and fun! *Register by August 15th to guarantee your T-shirt!

After 8pm, continue the party at Brewster’s with a fantastic Spazmatics show!

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“Committed to Excellence” KENNETH GONZALES, D.D.S., P.L.L.C. 361-992-2421

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tumbling + cheer prep + adult tumbling + toddler tumbling + todder cheer prep Private tumbling/ cheer lessons + Hip hop dance class + Competitive cheer teams ages 4-18 + College competitive cheer teams 6801 Weber Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (B) 361.334.2774 (C) 361.774.0112 /// AdvancedCheerAndAthletics@gmail.com

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