Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine Business May/June 2018 by Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine

COMMITMENT TO COMMERCE FASTSIGNS AND THE C2C CAMPAIGN REALTY WITH INTEGRITY SOUTH COAST REAL ESTATE COASTAL BEND BUSINESS

MAGAZINE

HAPPY-HOUR HANGOUT Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CANTERS WINE AND DELIGHTS

GOING BEYOND

THE WOMEN OF THE PORT OF

CORPUS CHRISTI 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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The Reserve at Dancing Elk is Under New Management

Yvette Terrell-Johnson New Venue Coordinator/Sales & Marketing 361-946-4812 | YvetteJ.DancingElk@gmail.com Chef Angela M. Gomez | 361-229-3338 ChefGomez75@yahoo.com

313 County Road 351 | Mathis, TX 78368 | Conveniently Located Off Interstate 37 www.thereserveatdancingelk.com

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

SALUTING THE WOMEN WHO KEEP IT ALL MOVING. To run an operation as great as Port Corpus Christi, you need outstanding employees at every capacity to make it work. We salute the women of the port who keep all the pieces movingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and your constant energy that brings us to where we are today.

connect with us: portofcc.com

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when you land, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re home WHY ... COMMUTE? WAIT IN LINE? GET STUCK IN TRAFFIC?

SOUTHWEST | UNITED | AMERICAN | WWW.FLYCCIA.COM I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

CONTENTS MAY. JUNE 2018

BUSINESS COACH 08 Modern Management SPECIAL FEATURE 10 Stellar Service FEATURES 12 One-Stop Shop 14 How to Sleep 16 Attracting Top Talent 18 Digital De-Clutter BBB SPOTLIGHT 20 Care by the Coast TRAVEL 48 Make the Choice TASTE 50 Best of Both Worlds NONPROFIT 52 Driving Force

UNITED CHAMBER CORPUS CHRISTI FASTSIGNS AND THE C2C CAMPAIGN

United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce member, FASTSIGNS, proudly sponsors the chamber’s inaugural Commit 2 Commerce Campaign.

22 COVER PHOTO BY: MC STUDIO WORKZ

COVER STORY

PROFILE

Demonstrating leadership in a wide variety of areas, the women of the Port positively impact the Coastal Bend economy and community at large in many ways.

With a long family history in real estate, Coral Dworaczyk leads a stellar team of professionals dedicated to helping their clients find the home of their dreams.

THE WOMEN OF THE PORT OF CORPUS CHRISTI

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SOUTH COAST REAL ESTATE

LOCAL EATS

D’CANTERS WINE AND DELIGHTS A family-owned wine bar where they treat their patrons like family, this new happyhour hangout is a welcoming, relaxing and truly unique experience.

WANT A CHEAPER ELECTRIC BILL?

Why Choose us: Our customers come first. The Stellar Energy Solutions and Hudson Energy support team is made up of people who understand the industry and care deeply about helping you in every way. We are here for you.  Dynamic Pricing: We have several clear advantages over other suppliers, including market experience and purchasing power, which add up to more value for your business.

 Environmentally Sound: We see the big picture. As an industry leader, it's our responsibility to explore green energy product options and offer affordable ways for companies to reduce their environmental impact.

 Energy Advisors: Our team of industry specialists will work with you to create an energy solution that meets all of your company's needs from budget to roll-out and support.

 Fully Integrated Partnership: Stellar Energy Solutions partners with Hudson Energy because our business values align. There is a mutual trust in our white glove approach to serving your business needs.

361.884.8973 | www.stellarnrgsolutions.com

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MEET THE STAFF MAY.JUNE2018

ADRIAN GARZA

“We Roll Our Pot to Your Spot!” The Original On-Site Provider of Low-Country Shrimp Boils & Bonfires in the Coastal Bend

CO-PUBLISHER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SALES adrian@ inspirecoastalbendmag.com 361.548.1044

CO-PUBLISHER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SALES Adrian Garza

CO-PUBLISHER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Holly Lewis Duvall

EDITOR Erin O’Brien

ART DIRECTOR HOLLY LEWIS DUVALL

CO-PUBLISHER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS holly@ inspirecoastalbendmag.com 479.935.0868

While we cook you a delicious dinner, relax with your toes in the sand around your own 3-hour Bonfire in our comfortable Adirondack Chairs, complete with Tiki Torches and a dessert of Traditional S'mores and Kassie's Signature Key Lime S'mores.

ERIN O’BRIEN

EDITOR erin.editorial@gmail.com

Elisa Giordano

SOCIAL MEDIA Morgan Bartel

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mandy Ashcraft Kim Bridger-Hunt Jessica Dusek Linda Jordan Samantha Koepp-Stemplinger Connie Laughlin Kathleen Naderer Madeline Skrobarczyk Sylvia Slezak Kelly Trevino Sarona Winfrey Dayna Worchel

PHOTOGRAPHY Dustin Ashcraft MC Studio Workz Fonzie Munoz Photography

ELISA GIORDANO ART DIRECTOR thatgirl@elisagiordano.com 210.716.5320

Read our reviews from past guests on Facebook, Yelp, and TripAdvisor. Over 115 reviews and every single one gave us a Perfect 5-Star Rating!

www.inspirecoastalbendmag.com For advertising information, please call 361.548.1044 or email adrian@inspirecoastalbendmag.com. For editorial comments and suggestions, please call 479.935.0868 or email holly@inspirecoastalbendmag.com.

www.facebook.com/RollinTideBoils MORGAN BARTEL

(361) 416-0416 RollinTideBoils@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA morgan@ inspirecoastalbendmag.com 620.417.5392

PELICAN

MEDIA GROUP

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Meet or Beat Any Rate! A new loan is deened as one not currently nanced at CCATCU. A disbursed loan of $10,000 or more is required to be eligible for the $100 reward incentive for both the referring member and the referred individual. Usual credit standards and other restrictions may apply. Offer subject to change without notice and may be withdrawn at any time. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer. Funds Federally Insured by NCUA.

BUSINESS COACH

MODERN MANAGEMENT Find your professional balance by adapting to the winds of change. By: CONNIE LAUGHLIN

CONNIE LAUGHLIN is a business consultant for UniqueHR. For more information on outsourcing your human resources, you may contact her at 361-852-6392 or conniel@uniquehr.com.

THERE ARE A LOT OF MOVING PARTS in a business. So a well-planned strategy that drives a streamlined operation, incorporating cost containment and risk management tactics is exactly where your focus should be. Clear the clutter, and eliminate various tasks. Delegate as much as you can to your trusted and well-trained employees. And outsource things that don’t have to do with profitability. Move forward with modern outsourcing vendors that are highly accredited and certified. Focus 100 percent of your time on running a business that’s geared to be profitable and guaranteed to stand the tests of time. Do this by automating and streamlining processes that don’t short-change client care. Create an environment that lends itself to creativity and servitude. Boost the bottom line by creating a dynamic business model where everyone’s attention is focused on revenue production, product, service and customers.

“IT MAY BE HARD FOR AN EGG TO TURN INTO A BIRD. IT WOULD BE A JOY SIGHT HARDER FOR IT TO LEARN TO FLY WHILE REMAINING AN EGG.” – C. S. LEWIS A MODERN CHANGE Make sure your business is adaptable to the winds of change and can stand the test of time by executing modern structure and appropriate processes for today. Convenience and cost are paramount to keeping clientele happy. This is obviously an understatement, as we continue to watch online commerce take down brickand-mortar stores and complacency do other businesses in (for example, Toys “R” Us). We’ve got to adapt over and over to our ever-changing marketplace. Time and attention must be focused on competing your business. Agility in business equates service to growth at all stages and times. Staying on top of the competition and current in your marketplace can be complex. Without a modernized business model, you’re setting up a scenario loaded with risk. We have more tools than ever to run a business like smart phone and iPad apps facilitating e-commerce, scheduling jobs and appointments and handling email, plus other communications. There’s an app for every-

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thing. Are you set up to tweak payroll; accept payments; work on job orders, job costing, billing and communications; and track inventory and vehicles?

“IT IS NOT THE STRONGEST OF THE SPECIES THAT SURVIVES, NOR THE MOST INTELLIGENT THAT SURVIVES. IT IS THE ONE THAT IS THE MOST ADAPTABLE TO CHANGE.” – CHARLES DARWIN MANAGE YOUR WAY TO A MODERN CHANGE Time management starts with finely managed projects. No project should be stamped finished until it’s reviewed in detail. Eliminate the need to go back to a job where you find yourself dealing with lost time and service issues. Plan, execute and closely monitor your projects. We all know it costs more to replace a customer than to gain a new one. And lost time isn’t replaceable! Investigate new software applications for keeping track of jobs or business accounts. Don’t schedule unnecessary meetings – send an email when it will do the job. Meetings are productive and positive when you preplan and stick to your agenda. By all means, do hold a meeting if it will add the needed importance to a requested task. Tend to your clients and prospective clientele with modern, time-appropriate and informative communiqués, mindful to not over-communicate. Find your professional balance. Since it’s mandatory to delegate as much work as possible to your staff, prepare them well. Don’t forget: A robust and possibly outsourced HR department can provide much-needed support, such as detailed list of job duties and job descriptions, employee handbooks, compliance counseling and a multitude of training courses that help eliminate headaches down the road! Employees who are well-trained, motivated and on board with their assigned work create a powerful workforce.

“TO IMPROVE IS TO CHANGE; TO BE PERFECT IS TO CHANGE OFTEN.” – WINSTON CHURCHILL

GULLEY HURST LANDFILL TYPES OF WASTE ACCEPTED

Solid waste resulting from the construction, remodeling, or repair and demolition of structures, roads, sidewalks, and utilities, including, but not limited to, bricks, concrete, and other masonry materials, soil, rock, wood, wood products, wall or floor coverings, plaster, drywall, plumbing fixtures, electrical wiring, electrical components containing no hazardous materials, non-asbestos insulation, and small quantities of construction related packaging.

LOCATED AT: 1435 County Road, Corpus Christi (361) 225-1300 www.gulleyhurst.com

 Floor tile  Siding  Roofing materials  Trees, brush and sod  Metal  Wood and sawdust; wood pallets  Mobile homes and trailers (except the tires and fuel tanks)  Furniture and appliances from which ozone depleting chlorofluorocarbons have been removed in accordance with the provisions of the federal clean air act.

ACCOUNTING OFFICE: (361) 853-2500 CONTACTS: Phil Hurst Mike Hurst Dr. R. Bryan Gulley

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SPECIAL FEATURE

STELLAR SERVICE

Meet Stellar Employee of the Month Javier Limones, recognized for excellence in service. SPECIAL TO INSPIRE COASTAL BEND

“

WE APPRECIATE JAVIER’S SENSE OF HUMOR, HONESTY, INTEGRITY AND WORK ETHIC.”

STELLAR ENERGY SOLUTIONS opened its doors in Corpus Christi in 2010, and the company continues to use the original triedand-true formula:

1. Use industry resources and experience to analyze a company’s electric usage. 2. Shop multiple electricity providers to deliver a customized, comprehensive quote. Best of all, this service costs the customer nothing. Their tenacity and commitment to integrity, choice and service has earned Stellar Energy Solutions the Affinity Program for

Electricity with both the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce and the Alice Chamber of Commerce. When chamber members handle their energy needs through Stellar Energy Solutions, they get the most competitive rate for their electricity, and dollars go right back into that chamber for their community. It is totally a win-win arrangement. And speaking of winning, meet Javier Limones, our newest employee. An avid outdoorsman with a delightful personality, Limones brings much excitement to the workplace every day. He is a quick study who has “proved himself in a short time, coming from temporary status to leading sales,” says Tim Clark, president. “I appreciate his sense of humor, honesty, integrity and work ethic.”

Interestingly, Limones hails from San Antonio, but arrived in Corpus Christi when his dad, a Vietnam War veteran, retired from the military as a Navy chief and relocated to this area. Limones credits his mom, a retired nurse, and his dad for his determination and “desire to make someone’s day or make someone’s business more profitable – to keep some of that hard-earned money.” He adds, “I want to look back and say ... ‘I’ve given my all in my relationships, my family ... [I’ve been] upfront and honest.’” That winning attitude is a perfect fit at Stellar Energy Solutions. Stellar Energy Solutions: Integrity. Choice. Service.

For any and all your electricity pricing needs, please contact JAVIER LIMONES at javier@stellarnrgsolutions.com.

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Every business is different. We get that. That’s why we provide unique investment levels, designed to help you right where you are. Don’t just take our word for it.

Research Shows... Consumers are 63% more likely to buy from a business that is a Chamber member. Companies enjoy a 49% increase in consumer favorability rating for being a member of the Chamber.

Membership is valuable & affordable, with investment starting at less than $42 per month

Consumers are 73% more likely to be highly aware of a business if it is a member of the Chamber, and 68% more likely to think positively of its local reputation. 7/10 consumers believe that being actively involved in the Chamber is an effective strategy for enhancing a business’ reputation and for demonstrating that it uses good business practices. Source: Shapiro Group, Atlanta, GA

The United Corpus Christi Chamber is your... PARTNER IN PROMOTION

Increase your visibility, get the word out, gain access to cost-effective and often free advertising for your business.

CONNECTION BUILDER

United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce 602 N. Staples Street, St. 150 Corpus Christi, TX 78401

Looking for leads, networking and business showcase opportunities? You’ve come to the right place.

(361) 881-1800

BUSINESS ADVOCATE

For more information on Chamber membership contact Efrain Franco,

We are your voice on issues that affect business and we maintain direct contact with leaders in all levels of government. When you need change, we make change happen.

efrain@unitedcorpuschristichamber.com

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

FEATURE

ONE-STOP SHOP It’s time to think about moms, dads and grads – and La Palmera has you covered.

pring is in full swing, and La Palmera is your destination for almost everything, including fashion, footwear, accessories, collectibles and dining – either for you or as a gift for someone special. Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 13, and if you’re looking for just the right gift, La Palmera has it. Find the latest styles at Michael Kors, francesca’s or White House | Black Market, or something special from Soma Intimates, trendy jewelry and accessories at Kendra Scott, cosmetics from MAC or handmade sweets from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. Need some help getting mom’s gift wrapped? Be sure to stop by our Charity Gift Wrapping station, located on the main level near the concierge. Representatives of local charities will be on hand to expertly wrap your gift for a donation Friday and Saturday, May 11 and 12, from noon to 6 p.m. Also in honor of Mother’s Day, the Corpus Christi Rose Society will hold their annual Mother’s Day Rose Sale on Saturday, May 12, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Center Court with dozens of beautiful roses for sale. And all moms who valet park on Mother’s Day will receive a complimentary rose (while supplies last). If you need a gift for the grad in your life, La Palmera can help. Find something trendy to wear under the cap and gown from H&M, Buckle or Michael Kors, pick up a pair of sunglasses from Oakley, select a special piece of jewelry from Pandora to commemorate the day or find the perfect card and keepsake item at Hallmark. And don’t forget about dear old dad: Sunday, June 17, is Father’s Day. You’ll find great gifts for the active and sports-minded at Champs Sporting Goods, Foot Locker, Footaction or Dallas Cowboys Pro Shop with its complete line of team memorabilia, clothing and sporting

FIND SOMETHING TRENDY TO WEAR UNDER THE CAP AND GOWN FROM H&M, BUCKLE OR MICHAEL KORS. PICK UP A PAIR OF SUNGLASSES FROM OAKLEY.

items. Or pamper dad with some men’s personal care items from Bath and Body Works. A night out with family and friends is also a great way to celebrate with mom, dad or grad, and La Palmera has a variety of full-service dining options sure to please any taste, including LongHorn Steakhouse, P.F. Chang’s China Bistro, Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and Chili’s Grill & Bar. If you’re still undecided about what to buy, pick up a La Palmera gift card. Available at Concierge in amounts from $10 to $500, the cards may be used at most La Palmera stores and restaurants. If you’re out and about and looking for things to do, there’s always something going on at La Palmera. Monthly events include the Tide Turner Kids Club for kids 5 and under and Wave Walkers for our health-conscious guests. La Palmera also takes part in a number of special events throughout the year, including the annual National Lemonade Day, encouraging entrepreneurship in America’s youth, on Saturday, May 12. Organized locally by the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce Foundation and presented by the Coastal Bend Home Builders Association Parade of Homes, La Palmera guests will find young entrepreneurs and their lemonade stands open for business throughout the mall. On Saturday, June 30, shoppers will find City Hall in the Mall with representatives from a variety of city departments available to talk with residents about available services from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Center Court.

For information on the many programs and events at LA PALMERA, go to www.lapalmera.com, follow us on Facebook or call 361-991-3755.

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SUNLIKE/BIGSTOCK.COM, KSENA32/BIGSTOCK.COM, BANPRIK/BIGSTOCK.COM

By: SARONA WINFREY

COMEDY

& CRAFT BEER FESTIVA

RIS TI CH

ER IC A

C ORPUS CHRISTi

a h a h

A N K C E N TE

C R-

SAVE THE DATE FOR THE 06.16.2018

ANNUAL nd WING festival

6pm-10pm

July 21st 2 - 5pm

Visit www.brewhahacc.com for more information

tickets on sale Friday, april 6th

american bank center selena auditorium and watergarden room

www.wingapaloozacc.com american bank center arena

Available at the American Bank Center Box Office, Ticketmaster.com, I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M 13 or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000.

FEATURE

HOW TO SLEEP

May is Better Sleep Month. Here are some ways you can get better sleep without counting sheep. By: SYLVIA SLEZAK

WHAT IS SLEEP? Physiologically, sleep is a complex process of restoration and renewal for the body. Our bodies require long periods of sleep in order to restore and rejuvenate, grow muscle, repair tissue and synthesize hormones. It is not a passive process or simply flipping an “off switch” on our body functions, but it is very important in many physiologic processes. WHAT CAUSES THE BODY TO SLEEP?

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problems, as demonstrated in poor recall for details (30 percent), decreased accuracy and quality of work (30 percent) and impaired decision making (31 percent). The BSC also estimated $150 billion in lost productivity and absenteeism results from poor sleep. Refreshing sleep is critically important for staying healthy. As with diet and exercise, sleep is crucial to physical, emotional and mental health. The consequences of inadequate sleep include reduced concentration, mood swings, irritability, stress and a weakened immune system.

HOW MUCH SLEEP DOES A PERSON NEED?

SLEEP IS CRITICALLY IMPORTANT FOR STAYING HEALTHY.

Individuals vary greatly in their need for sleep; there are no established criteria to determine exactly how much sleep a person needs. Eight hours or more may be necessary for some people, while others may consider this to be too much sleep.

REDPIXEL.PL/BIGSTOCK.COM

ay is not only about flowers, graduations, weddings and Mother’s Day. It has been designated by the Better Sleep Council (BSC) as “Better Sleep Month” for the purpose of raising awareness about the benefits of better sleep and to show how poor sleep can disrupt lives. The BSC conducted a survey and found that nearly two out of three respondents reported impaired sleep due to stress. Respondents stated their productivity both at home and in the workplace was impacted by sleep

Sleep is influenced by circadian rhythms that help determine our sleep patterns. Our body’s master clock, or SCN, controls melatonin production, which is a hormone that makes you sleep and helps regulate the “normal” awake and sleep cycles. Disruption of these cycles can make people sleepy, or somnolent, and at times, people want to be awake, such as “jet lag” when travelers cross time zones.

 Limit stimulating activities such as exercise and work prior to sleep. Choose relaxing activities with dimmed lights to ease the transition between wakefulness and drowsiness.  Create an ideal sleep environment that is cool, well ventilated and quiet. Use room-darkening shades to seal out light, earplugs or a fan if necessary. If you’re sharing the bed with a partner or a pet, make sure there is enough space for all. Avoid watching television or using electronics with backlit screens in bed and falling asleep with the TV on in the room.

TIPS TO IMPROVE SLEEP  Maintain a bedtime routine doing the same things every night to signal the body that’s it’s time for sleep. Avoid using electronic devices or watching TV at least an hour before winding down.  Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol use before bedtime. Alcohol may help you fall asleep, but once its ingredients wear off, it can leave you wide-awake. Some studies have shown that caffeine consumed early in the day can have an effect on the ability to fall asleep at night.  Avoid going to bed hungry or too full before bedtime. Discomfort can affect the ability to fall asleep. A full stomach will keep your body working when it should be sleeping.  Establish a sleep schedule, and stick to it by going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, even on weekends, holidays and days off. Being consistent reinforces the body’s sleep-wake cycle and helps promote better sleep.

 Do not lie in bed awake, worrying about not sleeping or anything negative. This produces anxiety that can actually make the problem worse.  Manage stress by getting organized, setting priorities and delegating tasks. Before bedtime, write down all thoughts and set them aside for tomorrow.  Limit daytime naps to 10 to 30 minutes during mid-afternoon, unless you work nights. Long naps can interfere with nighttime sleep, especially if you’re struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality at night.  Get daily physical exercise, but avoid exercising two hours prior to bedtime. A healthy lifestyle consisting of exercise and a healthy diet can contribute to better sleep.  Replace your bedding regularly to make sure it is of high quality, and change your pillow once every year. If you can’t afford a new mattress, a high-quality topper can help extend its life. This May, go outdoors, enjoy the weather and encourage others to improve their overall sleep quality and quantity through better sleeping habits. Now that you know what to do for a better night’s sleep, start implementing these tips.

SYLVIA SLEZAK is the director of marketing and social media at CityOf.com. For more information, visit us online at www.cityof.com to find local premier businesses, restaurants, events, attractions and more. I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

FEATURE

ATTRACTING TOP TALENT Is a workforce shortage hurting your expansion plans?

t is a great time to be a business owner or executive in the United States. Many industries across America are growing quickly, requiring them to reach out into the marketplace for qualified employees to help them accomplish their expansion goals. According to CareerBuilder and Economic Modeling Specialists International, the United States will likely create nearly 7.2 million jobs by 2021, marking a 4.6 percent increase. Many industries are expecting to even surpass these statistics. As an executive in an expanding company, it is vital to take advantage of this phenomenon. However, it can be challenging to do so when, at the same time, the U.S. unemployment rate is primed to dip below 3 percent for the first time since 1953, according to economists at Goldman Sachs Group Inc. With the combination of the baby boomers having exited the workforce and the growing demand for talent, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a tremendous amount of competition for qualified candidates. If you are experiencing such challenges, it may be an opportune time to partner with an experienced recruiting firm to help you attract top talent.

Resources like LinkedIn, CareerBuilder and ZipRecruiter provide an incredible array of candidates, but it can still be an overwhelming task to identify the candidates who are right for your particular opportunity, and who are seeking new opportunities in your geographic area at a salary range in your budget. An experienced recruiting firm maintains a database of candidates who have already been through the registration process, made their preferences known to the recruiter and are readily available without the need for advertising. Recruiting firms are also set up to make your life easier by doing the due diligence necessary to identify the right candidate and deliver them to you already reference checked, criminal background verified and drug screened. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s usually a guarantee associated with the hire, too. Be sure to look for firms that are members of professional associations like the National Association of Personnel Services or American Staffing Association. These associations offer education and training to their member firms and have a code of ethics that their members must abide by. The benefits of using a service far outweigh the fees associated with the hiring process. Happy hunting!

L .K. JORDAN & ASSOCIATES is a woman-owned family business with 28 years of experience providing temporary and executive recruitment services to its clients. Offices are located in Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Houston and Austin.

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REDPIXEL.PL/BIGSTOCK.COM

By: LINDA JORDAN

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

FEATURE

DIGITAL DE-CLUTTER BBB offers some tips for giving your business a digital spring cleaning. By: KELLY TREVINO

pring has sprung, and all know what that means: spring cleaning. This may be a good time to clean out your desk, organize paperwork or deep clean the office – but what about cleaning up your digital life? This season, Better Business Bureau (BBB) serving the heart of Texas recommends backing up all of your important files. If you’re not sure where to begin, start by going through your device and deleting files you don’t need, uninstall

programs you don’t use and empty your recycling bin. But remember, before you start swiping clean your devices, make sure you back up anything important to your computer, the Cloud or an external hard drive. To ensure you’re safely managing and tidying up your digital life, BBB offers the following advice:  Keep software updated. Make sure all devices have the most recent software updates installed. This includes security

software, Web browsers, document readers, operating systems and any other software you use regularly. Install anti-virus software on your devices, and keep them up-to-date.

LONGER PASSWORDS AND THOSE THAT COMBINE CAPITAL AND LOWERCASE LETTERS WITH NUMBERS AND SYMBOLS PROVIDE BETTER PROTECTION.

 Clean up your mobile device. Delete unused apps, and keep others updated. Not only will you reduce clutter, you’ll have more storage space for data and a longer battery life on your device.  Create better passwords. Passwords like “123456” and “qwerty” are among some of the most common passwords used by the general population. Longer passwords and those that combine capital and lowercase letters with numbers and symbols provide better protection.  De-clutter your email inbox. Delete emails older than a year, and create and label folders for emails to stay organized. Delete messages in your spam folder, and unsubscribe from emails you don’t open. Move important messages to an archive.

REVIEW THE PRIVACY AND SECURITY SETTINGS ON WEBSITES YOU USE. KELLY TREVINO is the regional director for the Corpus Christi/Victoria area of BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU serving the heart of Texas. She is available for media interviews and speaking engagements. You can reach her at 361-945-7352 or ktrevino@corpuschristi.bbb.org.

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SARAYUT/BIGSTOCK.COM

 Check your privacy settings on your social media sites. Review the privacy and security settings on websites you use to be sure that they remain set to your comfort level for sharing to your friends or the public.

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start with US

For over 100 years, BBB has helped people make smarter purchasing decisions. Finding trustworthy businesses in your area has never been easier.

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Visit bbb.org to find trustworthy BBB Accredited Businesses in the Coastal Bend such as:

361.884.3511 | crockermoving.com

361.991.3252 | villaassistedliving.com

361.853.0123 | onetacc.com

BUILD LOCAL | THINK GLOBAL

361.882.9669 | snyderandassociates.com

361.444.9090 | summit361.com I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

BBB SPOTLIGHT

CARE BY THE COAST Villa of Corpus Christi South: excellent care at quality prices By: KELLY TREVINO

“

OUR FOCUS IS THE PEOPLE LIVING WITH US.”

the needs of the residents by giving them an enriched lifestyle, a better quality of life and the opportunity to share new experiences and activities in pleasant surroundings,” Howland said. Standard services and amenities made available to residents at Villa South include:     

private pay, assisted living and secure memory care residence catering to the 55-plus community, Villa of Corpus Christi South provides residents a comfortable environment with the necessary amenities for daily living. Located just minutes from the shoreline, Villa South delivers coastal living with added elements of privacy, security and convenience. Villa South embodies its mission of “serving seniors with care” by striving to be affordable while providing outstanding care for residents. “We believe in excellent care at quality prices,” said Executive Director Donna Howland, LVN/ C.A.L.M. An advocate for seniors and their needs, Howland believes in putting her residents before the “bottom dollar.” “Our focus is

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the people living with us,” she said. “Each day, we make decisions putting our residents’ needs first.” A nurse for more than 25 years, Howland began working in the geriatric field immediately upon graduating from nursing school. In addition to running a therapy contracting company, she has a diverse background in home health care, from field nurse and quality assurance to billing and scheduling. Now, with more than 10 years’ experience in assisted living, Howland has found her passion. “I love making a difference in our residents’ lives every day,” she said. The team at Villa South is made up of 10 directors who oversee all aspects of the senior living community, and 50 additional staff members who make sure the residents’ needs are met. “Our goal at Villa South is to fulfill

Daily homemade meals Medication assistance Attendants on duty 24 hours a day Weekly housekeeping Scheduled transportation

Additionally, Villa South offers the Stepping Stones Alzheimer’s Unit, a certified special care unit with the Texas Department of Aging and Disability (DADS). Licensed to provide specialized care for individuals in all phases of Alzheimer’s, residents receive the appropriate cognitive, recreational, self-care and occupational activities needed to assist with memory loss. Services include a licensed vocational nurse on duty 40 hours per week, personalized activities program with a certified activities director and 24-hour staffing. Villa South continues to be progressive and flexible in meeting the changing needs of a community requiring assistance, and looks to increase capacity in the next five years. “We work diligently to create and maintain trust and integrity in our business every day to ensure families are comfortable entrusting their loved ones in our care,” Howland said. As a proud accredited business, Villa South uses the BBB brand to help build trust between the business and new potential residents. “BBB accreditation helps to show our consumers that our reputation in the community is as good as we say it is,” Howland said. “So many of our referrals tell us that they checked us first on the BBB webpage before coming to tour.”

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COVER STORY

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Leading by Example Meet the women of the Port of Corpus Christi, who go above and beyond to positively impact the Coastal Bend community every day. BY: Dayna Worchel PHOTOS BY: MC Studio Workz and Fonzie Munoz Photography WARDROBE PROVIDED BY: Julian Gold, Corpus Christi

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The women

who work for the Port of Corpus Christi impact the lives of the people of the Coastal Bend in so many positive ways. They help grow jobs and the economy, and they give their time and energy to philanthropic causes. They work in government relations to get favorable legislation that benefits the Port through Congress, and they protect the public by working in the Port’s police department. They are also engineers and environmental scientists. Many of them work in traditionally male-driven occupations. The women all share something in common no matter what title they hold: pride about the roles they play in the positive economic growth of the region. In turn, this growth benefits the entire Coastal Bend region, they say. They have reason to be proud. “The Port of Corpus Christi is the nation’s fourth largest by total tonnage, and it is now the largest crude oil export port in the country as a result of the lifting of the ban on crude oil exports in December 2015,” says Port Commission Secretary Barbara Canales. “It was a game-changer for us, and has made it urgent for us to deepen our channel,” said Canales, who works as an attorney and has also been a petroleum engineer. Her term expires in 2019. “At the Port, we directly provide 80,000 jobs to our region. Everything we do impacts someone’s job or paycheck.”

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Canales stays busy in the community. In addition to having served on numerous charitable boards and committees, she serves as president of the Ready or Not Foundation, which she founded after her daughter, Jackie Black, was diagnosed with brain cancer as a child. What she loves the most about her service on the Port Commission is helping govern the “such an exciting economic region,” she says. Director of Community Relations Rosie Collin says the best part of her job is helping bring hope and promise to the region through the philanthropic giving, volunteer efforts and engagement with the community in which port staff live and work. “We change lives,” Collin says. “We work closely with our regional communities because we value people and relationships.” Collin and her department help create new job opportunities by bringing people together, and they strengthen communities in their work with more than 100 nonprofit organizations and the Adopt A School program. “Working closely with our neighbors in San Patricio and Nueces Counties has been exciting as we continue to strengthen our regional community and tell our story,” she says. “It’s about how we develop young leaders in many disciplines through our internship program, how our employees join walks to bring awareness to causes and how our employees hold annual canned food drives for the Coastal Bend Food Bank and the Port of Corpus Christi Pantry at Mission 911, which are all part of a profound story of stewardship,” says Collin, a fifth-generation Corpus Christian and a 12th-generation Texan, who is also a mother of three and a grandmother of two. For Director of Government Affairs Nelda Olivo, who has worked for the Port for 24 years, part of telling that story involves identifying new opportunities for the Port where she can make an impact at different levels.

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“

T he best thing about the Port is the people within it. We’re like a family.”

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“My day-to-day responsibilities include management of the Port’s government relations activities, monitoring legislative and regulatory issues affecting the Port and developing a strategy to promote key priorities and policies,” she says. This goal is accomplished by effective communication and building strong relationships with policy makers. It is important the Port have a voice in the government processes that impact our business, Olivo says. “Collaborating with elected officials, state and federal offices and our stakeholders is always exciting. In the process, I always gain a new friend.” But sometimes, accomplishing a goal in her department can take years and can be challenging, like the Port widening and deepening project, Olivo says. Her role, along with everyone who works for the Port, is to make a positive difference in the community, she says. “Overall, I’m a dedicated, focused and patient person that is easy to work with,” says the mother of two and grandmother of three. “I enjoy meeting new people. Spending quality time with family is most important.” As the chief of program management in engineering, Sonya Lopez Sosa is responsible for the accountability of all contracts and administration components of the engineering department’s capital projects to ensure completion within required timelines and in compliance with statutory policy and procedural

protocols. She has been working with the Port for 10 years, with eight years of that time spent as the Foreign Trade Zone manager. “I am fortunate that I’ve had the opportunity to develop wonderful relationships with people I have met and worked with in both of these positions, many of whom I remain in contact with and reach out to frequently,” she says. But what she loves the most about her job is the diversity of each day, which ensures that no two workdays are alike. Lopez Sosa echoes her colleagues when talking about the role they play in the positive economic development of the region. “Knowing that many of the projects we are doing affect the commerce of our community, region and the U.S. gives me great satisfaction that significantly outweighs the hours, the stress and the hard work,” she says. “They are all part of my life, but the payoff is having an impact on our community and region when the day is done.” Natasha Fudge is the capital program manager of engineering for the Port who has recently been asked to take on the role of acting chief engineer. Her team is responsible for the in-house design of many maintenance projects, as well as oversight of Port construction projects. They coordinate with the Port’s customers, tenants, contractors and design consultants, and provide technical assistance to other Port departments. She grew up and went to college in Newfoundland, Canada, and has been living in Texas for a little more than 20 years, she says. She worked in both the private and public sectors prior to joining the Port. Fudge has been married for more than 20 years, and is a mom to two teenagers. Her favorite part of her job is “working with great people on a variety of interesting and challenging projects. There is something new to learn and explore every day.” Fudge feels like she makes a difference in her job with the Port by working to provide safe and responsible development of new Port infrastructure and maintenance of existing infrastructure as a catalyst to spur regional economic growth, resulting in more opportunities for families to seek good paying jobs in the Coastal Bend. “This attracts new families to the Coastal Bend while retaining local talent,” she says. Port Police Officer Amy Cuevas began working with the Port eight months ago, shortly before Hurricane Harvey affected the Coastal Bend. One of the primary functions of the Port of Corpus Christi Authority Police Department is to provide quality police service, she says. “The high level of policing that I provide is to the Port industry, by being honest, courteous and professional at all times. The overall purpose of my job is the

prevention and deterrence of crime to maintain and improve the quality of life of the citizens in my area of responsibility,” says Cuevas, a mother of two teenagers who is finishing a master’s degree in forensic science. But her favorite part of the job is working with her colleagues at the Port. “When I first came to the Port of Corpus Christi, I was nervous and unsure if I would like it or fit into the organization,” she says. “However, my fears washed away quickly on day one. The best thing about the Port is the people within it, because it’s like a family.” Cuevas adds that when she first went to work at the Port, she didn’t realize the Port’s importance as an economic driver to the community. “Over the years, the Port has expanded and is continuing to grow, creating job opportunities and partnerships for local communities in the Coastal Bend.” When she’s not busy with her job or school, Cuevas is involved with the Tip a Cop program for Special Olympics, and she mentors teens and young adults who have a medical condition called Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, which is an autonomic nerve dysfunction. “I was born with this condition and have overcome many complications to be where I am physically today,” she says. Director of Environmental Planning and Compliance Sarah Garza and her staff have the responsibility for ensuring that everything that happens within the Port is in compliance with rules and regulations. That includes planning before an operation comes in, she says, adding that the Port has 150 tenants. “We have a pretty rigorous environmental policy we adopted about two years ago,” she says. “One of the little-known facts is that the aquarium draws water from the ship channel. We’re one of the few places that is such a clean port that we can do that. We actually own the bottom of the ship channel, so we have a little more enforcement authority than some ports.” Garza’s department is always looking for ways to make the Port operation sustainable. “But at the same time, some of our facilities that we’re constructing displace some things like sea grass, so we have to plan for that and mitigate for that in other places,” she says. “But also, we work with the community and very much with Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Foundation to help them promote maintaining our bay system, even in spite of what all is happening in the Port area and in the region and in the city. We cover all different aspects: wildlife, birds, things in the water and the water quality.”

Being beyond compliance is the goal of the Port, and now there is a mechanism to plan projects with sustainability in mind and go well beyond. So compliance is a thing of the past, Garza says. “We want to be driving regulations instead of regulations driving us. And that’s a lot of work, because attracting companies who agree with that philosophy and then negotiating with them to make sure they aren’t just saying it on the front end, but that we are actually getting there.” There are 150 tenants at the Port, a tenant audit program and an environmental management system, which helps the Port with its compliance and ensuring that the Port is complying with all of its permits, she says. Garza is active in her church community and attends St. Philip the Apostle Catholic Church in Corpus Christi with her husband and two children. They enjoy outdoor activities, and Garza recently ran a half-marathon in Florida at Disney World. Danielle Converse has worked as a senior environmental specialist in the Port’s environmental planning and compliance department for the past three-and-a-half years. “My impact at the Port includes being a part of the team that is raising the bar for environmental performance

“

T here is something new to learn and explore every day.”

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“We change lives. We value people and relationships.”

in the Texas Coastal Bend,” she says. “It is an honor to work for an organization that strives to continuously improve their environmental performance, going beyond what is required by regulations to ensure our future sustainability.” When she’s not hard at work at the Port, Converse serves as the president of the Coastal Bend Bays Foundation, and on the board of directors for the Tejas Bowmen Archery Club. She also volunteers with the Third Coast Archers Junior Olympic Archery Development Club. Helping further the mission to keep the environment clean is Maggie Iglesias-Turner, who has worked for the Port for 22 years, and has been the business development manager for Wind Energy & Project Cargo for the last seven years. “My role is a direct result of the Port’s successful efforts during the last decade towards

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cargo diversification,” she says. “The facilities and lay-down space have solidified Corpus Christi as a premier port for wind energy cargo.” The Port’s vision “to be the energy port of the Americas” is inclusive of green energy. Protecting the Port in a different way is Donna James-Spruce, risk program manager. She’s worked at the port for two years, but has 16 years of experience as a governmental entity risk manager. “As risk manager, my role is to identify and analyze loss exposures and implement decisions that minimize or eliminate the adverse effects of risk,” she says. “This impacts the Port by limiting liability, which, in turn, protects the Port’s assets and its reputation.” James-Spruce stays busy serving the community. She’s the board president for the Texas

Public Risk Management Association, a board member for The Purple Door, the women’s shelter in Corpus Christi, and she serves on the advisory board for Our Driving Concern/ National Safety Council. Lynn Angerstein, manager of procurement services and financial analysis, has worked for the Port since July 1997, starting out as the accounts payable supervisor. She says became an accounting manager in 2009 and gained her current title in 2016, when she created the Port’s procurement department under the direction of Chief Financial Officer Dennis DeVries. “Nearing my 21st year with the Port of Corpus Christi, my fundamental objective is and has always been to be a good steward of the Port’s resources, to promote and expand opportunities for businesses in our region, to provide

needed goods and services to the Port and to represent the Port of Corpus Christi Authority with integrity,” says Angerstein, who also volunteers with the Wounded Warrior Project. Sandra Terrell-Davis, who has worked for 22 years in human resources for the Port, now serves as director of that department. Her job is to be a good steward of the Port’s human capital. “My role is to make sure employees are working in a safe and well-balanced work environment, and their compensation and benefits maintain a competitive edge with the Coastal Bend area and with the other port authorities,” she says. “Additionally, my job gives emphasis to our core values: safety, empowerment, accountable, preparedness, optimism, respect and teamwork.” Terrell-Davis also serves on the board with Communities and Schools of the Coastal Bend

and the CHRISTUS Spohn Health Network. Port CEO Sean Strawbridge, who came to work for the Port in 2015 as chief operating officer and was promoted to his current job in December, praises all of the hardworking staff at the Port, both women and men. “We are gender blind, ethnicity blind, color blind and religion blind,” he says. “What we aren’t blind to is the tremendous leadership.” Another thing the Port isn’t blind to is the talent of its women leaders. “Talent has no color, race or gender,” Strawbridge says. “You will find it in all walks of life. When you look at leadership, the talent will rise to the top. These women are there because of their knowledge and leadership.” When he first came to work at the port in 2015, Strawbridge wondered why there were

no women working in law enforcement there. There were 25 officers employed at the Port then. Now there are two women Port police officers, since he purposely recruited women from other law enforcement agencies in the area. “I was raised by a strong mom in a house full of boys. I learned about demonstrating a healthy respect for women,” says Strawbridge, who met his Panamanian wife while working there. “It’s given me perspective and sensitivity to diversity,” he says. “I’m very proud of the great women and men of the Port of Corpus Christi. We are on a good trajectory and looking forward to the work we have ahead of us.” For more information, visit www.portofcc.com.

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UNITED CHAMBER CORPUS CHRISTI

COMMIT TED TO COMMERCE Spotlight on FASTSIGNS and the United Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inaugural C2C Campaign By: Madeline Skrobarczyk

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“The C2C Campaign provides UCCCC members access to a variety of resources.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FAST SIGNS AND UNITED CORPUS CHRISTI CHAMBER

he United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce (UCCCC) is proud to introduce a comprehensive and strategic approach to the way sponsorship and marketing opportunities are offered to chamber members: the “Commit 2 Commerce” (C2C) Campaign. The inaugural C2C Campaign began April 16 and will continue through the close of business on May 25. During this time period, all of the chamber’s remaining event sponsorship and marketing opportunities for 2018 are available for purchase. The C2C pre-sale took place prior to the commencement of the campaign, during which many UCCCC members who sponsored events in 2017 made their 2018 “Commitments to Commerce.” One of the 41 member businesses that secured their sponsorships during the campaign pre-sale was FASTSIGNS. Locally owned by Bill and Beth Stockley, FASTSIGNS offers a wide variety of custom sign and graphic products. FASTSIGNS has been a long-time supporter of Coastal Bend-area chambers of commerce, and is a highly involved member of the UCCCC, established in September 2016. “When Beth and I purchased FASTSIGNS in March of 1999, one of the first things we did as business owners was join the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce,” Bill Stockley says. “I consider our membership and level of involvement with the chamber one of the key reasons FASTSIGNS has been open and successful for over 19 years.” Bill is a current UCCCC board member and co-chair of the Small, Diverse & Emerging Business Council, a chamber committee focused on identifying opportunities to help small businesses succeed. Chamber and community involvement is an integral part of the company culture at FASTSIGNS, and a standard that reaches beyond owners Bill and Beth. FASTSIGNS General Manager Jason Haviland and Customer Service Representative Valerie Benitez are both actively involved in the C2C Campaign, and have volunteered their time to connect other businesses with UCCCC event sponsorship and marketing opportunities most valuable to them. “The C2C Campaign provides UCCCC members access to a variety of resources to increase visibility and gain marketing access to key decision makers, business leaders,

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residents and consumers within the Coastal Bend,” states Cleo Rodriguez Jr., president and CEO of UCCCC. “Volunteer participation from member businesses such as FASTSIGNS is essential to the success of this initiative, and will ensure our members are connected to the sponsorship opportunities that will be most beneficial to them.” FASTSIGNS is committed to providing effective sign and graphic solutions for your business. Whether you need a simple banner, updated graphics for a trade show exhibit or a complete signage makeover, the professional team at FASTSIGNS will help you come up with the best solution, on time and within budget. They’ll help you promote your products and services, establish or increase brand awareness, direct people to your site and guide them around your place of business. For more information about FASTSIGNS and their services, visit fastsigns.com/164 or call 361-991-7991.

About UCCCC The United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce is the premier organization working to advance economic prosperity for all business while preserving our region’s diverse cultures. The chamber proudly represents the needs of 1,100 member-businesses while working to unite Corpus Christi to be the best place to live and work. United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce members and volunteers represent a cross section of all types and sizes of business in our community. For more information on becoming a member of the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, please contact Efrain Franco Jr. at 361-881-1800 or efrain@unitedcorpuschristichamber.com.

For more information about the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce and the “Commit 2 Commerce” (C2C) Campaign, please visit www. unitedcorpuschristichamber.com or email c2c@unitedcorpuschristichamber.com.

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Special thanks to the following C2C pre-sale volunteers:  Libby Averyt, United Way of the Coastal Bend  Valerie Benitez, FASTSIGNS  Deven Bhakta, ZJZ Hospitality Inc.  Ed Cantu, Ed Cantu Insurance Agency  Ken Griffin, AEP Texas  Jason Haviland, FASTSIGNS  Samuel Longoria, BBVA Compass  Helen Peters, Unique HR  Philip Ramirez, Turner Ramirez Architects  Michelle Roddel, Beauty and the Bistro  C. Michelle Unda, NuStar Energy  Eric Villarreal, LNV Engineering  Ciara Williams, Frost Bank  Alan Wilson, Charter Bank

COMMIT 2 COMMERCE SPONSOR SHIP CAMPAIGN

orthShore Country Club

GOLF, TENNIS, SWIMMING & FITNESS FACILITIES.

• USTA tennis leagues and Championship Caliber Instruction • The ONLY waterfront golf course in the Coastal Bend! • Memberships available. Come join us!

WEDDINGS, RECEPTIONS & EVENTS

• Wedding Cakes & Specialty Cakes • Balcony Entrance with Floor to Ceiling Windows and Golf Course Views • Various floor plans to accommodate up to 450 guests.

801 East Broadway • Portland, TX 78374

361-643-1546

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

PHOTOS COURTESY OF INSPIRE COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

PROFILE

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AT YOUR

Service South Coast Real Estate guides clients to a home of joy and fulfillment. By: Jessica Dusek

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“I ALWAYS SAY WE ARE LIKE SHERPAS,” LAUGHS CORAL DWORACZYK (SOON TO BE CAREY). AS A REALTOR, SHE GUIDES HER CLIENTS THROUGH THE RESEARCH AND SELECTION OF PURCHASING THEIR NEW HOME. IN 2007, SHE MADE THE CAREER MOVE FROM ACADEMIA TO THE HOUSING INDUSTRY, AND SHE HASN’T REGRETTED IT SINCE! HER COMPANY, SOUTH COAST REAL ESTATE, HAS A NEW LOCATION ON THE CORNER OF ROSEBUD AND SANTA FE, NEAR DOWNTOWN CORPUS CHRISTI. “My family has a long history in real estate,” Coral explains. Coming from a line of strong businesswomen, her grandmother became an immediate mentor. For Coral, being a REALTOR has been more than just selling houses. She enjoys navigating her clients through the overwhelming details. She and her assistant, Erin Rich, help South Coast’s clients with a smooth transition to their end goal. “Erin keeps the train on the tracks,” says Coral with gratitude of her supportive staff. Attention to detail is incredibly important in Coral’s line of business. Specializing in residential and commercial projects, “I try to be accessible and easy to talk to,” Coral says. In the housing realm, she aims to find her clients

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“I consider it an honor when people let me help them.”

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a home that brings them joy – and also one they can truly afford. “I don’t want people to just buy a home – I want them to take time to buy their home,” she explains, sincerely. The kind of home she foresees for her clients is one with charm, personality and a “blessing.” “Trying to keep up with the Joneses,” she says, isn’t realistic for many buyers. “One of the biggest things people find intimidating is to not be afraid to get their finances in order and get pre-qualified.” When homeowners are ready and know what options work best for their needs, this allows Coral to better address the needs and values her clients seek in a home. More and more, clients show interest in diverse types of homes. “My favorite is the residential homes built in the 1900s – big and small,” Coral shares. “Character, quality and craftsmanship. I love to see people breathe life back into these homes.” She adds, “I have to give Chip and Joanna credit.” She notes the modern-day HGTV show, “Fixer Uppers,” which helps homeowners experience the potential in remodeled older homes. Coral’s tips that bring joy and satisfaction to her clients:  “Think about the lifestyle you want to be living,” Coral says. “It’s like a fresh beginning when you buy a new home.” Whether it’s a new or remodeled home, consider the style that makes you most happy.  Consider other expenses. What do the property taxes look like – and can you realistically afford it with your budget? Have you budgeted for potential upgrades?  Know your budget, and get excited about it! “Your home should be a blessing, not a burden,” she reinforces, in the realm of finances.  Assess if the home is located in a flood plain. If it is, budget for flood insurance and other precautions. The nature of her role is ever-changing, leading Coral to new and old landscapes. “I really enjoy farm and ranch real estate,” she adds. Her time as a Ph.D. graduate student and lecturer in the Department of Animal Science at

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Texas A&M University in College Station and as an adjunct professor at Blinn College have allowed her to become versatile in the field. “You never know who you are going to meet or what people are going to need,” Coral says. “I consider it an honor when people let me help them. Investing their hard-earned money into investment properties.” Through personalized service and traditional values, Coral wants her clients to be understood and well cared for. “Very high ethical standards – that’s something for me to impress upon people.”

To learn more about SOUTH COAST REAL ESTATE or to schedule an appointment with Coral, contact her at coral@southcoasttexas.com, 361-452-3648 (office) or 979-229-2836 (cell). You may also visit South Coast Real Estate online at www.realestatebycoral.com.

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Enjoy fine wine and fine dining for affordable prices at exciting new happy-hour hangout, Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Canters Wine and Delights. By: KATHLEEN NADERER

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF INSPIRE COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

Local Eats

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hose searching for a new favorite happy hour hangout will find it in a secluded corner of the Town & Country Shopping Center. Nestled between Edward Jones and The Vanity Box, D’Canters Wine and Delights offers a wide array of wine, beer and cocktail choices, as well as a menu full of delicious appetizers, tasty meals and family-recipe specials. Sip on a glass (or share a bottle) of the finest wines available in Coastal Bend. Their popular house wine, Greystone, offers approachable, well-balanced vintages that can enhance the flavors of any meal. Although D’Canters is a wine bar, it is not limited in its delights. Enjoy your favorite domestic beers, as well as local brews like Lorelei, or order one of their handcrafted, signature cocktails. Prominent drink specials include their cold, crisp martinis, which come in a range of styles including Dirty (a salty and sour standard), Cucumber (a light and refreshing twist) and Love (a fruity and sweet alternative). You can even drink your brunch on Sundays at their Bloody Mary Brunch Buffet. Receive a 32-ounce mason jar, fill it with your choice of vodka and mixer, then go to town on the ample variety of food at the buffet. Order an appetizer or meal made from the freshest ingredients to savor while you unwind. Popular dishes include the ceviche, the caprese salad and, of course, a wonderful cheese and charcuterie board, available as an individual plate or a group tray. Limited specialty meals, as well as wine and food pairing events, are included among their daily dining options. D’Canters began as a passion project for the Covarrubiaz family. Owners Mary Jane, known to family and friends as MJ, and Isaac Covarrubiaz created this venue as part of their legacy. MJ’s mother served as inspiration for D’Canters. Her mother owned a restaurant when MJ was a young girl, and MJ remembered the love and warmth she felt there. She would recreate those same delicious meals to share with her own family at home. Now, each Friday, she chooses a dish from her mother’s recipe book to

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share with her customers as meal specials at D’Canters. This passion for food had led MJ and Isaac to originally consider opening a restaurant. However, since they both work fulltime jobs in addition to this business venture, they chose instead to create a bar that features food specials. Isaac’s knowledge of wine, which he has expanded during his yearly trips to Germany, has helped them create flavorfully balanced food and wine pairings for their menu. D’Canters is not run solely by the husband-and-wife duo. The whole family has worked together to set up the business, putting in countless hours to create a truly unique experience for their customers. All three of their children – Jade, Josh-

ua and Jordan – are also involved in the operation, filling whatever roles and positions are necessary. Jade manages the business’s social media sites; Joshua works as the head cook whenever MJ isn’t at the venue; and Jordan and Jade can often be found behind the bar, mixing drinks, or on the floor, taking food and drink orders. Running a small, family-owned business is challenging, especially during the first year. When D’Canters first opened in November 2017, many customers had a hard time finding their location. Some

HAPPY HOUR from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. were even confused about whether the venue was a wine store or a wine bar. Additionally, Joshua and Jordan are both still in college, so the cost of tuition, along with the cost of a startup, strained the family’s finances for a while. Yet, the Covarrubiazes have remained steadfast, and business has begun to pick up. “We’ve had to sacrifice a lot,” Jade said. “But we’re proud to say that D’Canters is truly ours.” From the soft glow of the string lights to the warm wooden backsplash at the bar, everything in D’Canters is designed to create a welcoming, relaxing atmosphere. Cool concrete floors, oak barrel tables and a rich, dark color scheme add to this ambiance. D’Canters also supports local artists by providing live entertainment in the evenings. Local musicians perform acoustics on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. “We want everyone to feel comfortable when they come here,” Jade explained. “This is a place where people can come to relax and unwind.” Treating patrons as members of their family has become the signature style of D’Canters. Whether customers are newcomers or regulars, there is nothing the Covarrubiaz family loves more than to see a smile on their faces while they eat their food and sip their drinks. “When they tell us that their experience here was amazing, that makes our day!”

DAILY DRINK SPECIALS TUESDAY: $4 Tito’s Handmade Vodka

WEDNESDAY: $6 House Wines and Half-Price Select Wine Bottles

THURSDAY: $7.50 Martinis and $6 Maker’s Mark

FRIDAY: $6 Crown Royal and Crown Apple

SATURDAY: $4 Deep Eddy Vodkas

SUNDAY: Bloody Mary Brunch Buffet

D’Canters Wine and Delights 4238 South Alameda Monday: Closed Tuesday-Saturday: 3 p.m. to 12 a.m. Sunday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Join the D’Canters Wine and Delights family for food and drink at 4238 South Alameda during their business hours. Follow their Facebook page for updates on events and daily specials, or contact them at 361-452-1429 for any other inquiries. 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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TRAVEL

MAKE THE CHOICE

Want more air service at CCIA? Let us know where you want to go!

hink about the last few trips you took by air. Think about the clothes you bought for the trip. Think about the hotel where you stayed. Think about the restaurants you patronized during your trip, and the souvenirs you purchased for the kids and their friends. Think about the money you spent and what a difference your decisions made for all of the businesses and service providers that helped to make your trip memorable. Chances are you can recall just about every dollar you spent. You can remember the big tips you left and the smiles you saw on the faces of the hotel clerks and the theme park employees. They rely on you for their livelihood. Here’s the question: Where did you choose to start your trip? Did you fly out of Corpus Christi International Airport (CCIA), or did you drive to San Antonio or Houston? Did you spend your money flying from your own airport, or did you invest in someone else’s community? Airports like CCIA have a tall hill to climb. Airports like CCIA, that are positioned close to larger hubs in larger cities, often find themselves competing with those other cities for their very survival. Airlines commit to serving our community. Those relationships are critical to the economic vitality of our region. And yet, travelers choose to bypass their own airport for another. Forty percent of travelers who live within 60 miles of CCIA choose another airport when they fly. If you fall into this category, you are not alone. No one wants to preach to you about the error of your ways or the

impact or your choice on your local airport. Suffice it to say that as long as local travelers choose to invest their money in other airports, CCIA is destined for the status quo. This doesn’t mean there is never a good reason to drive to Houston to catch a flight. It’s understandable in some circumstances. But there’s a consequence to that decision that every resident of the region needs to acknowledge and accept. If you never bought a car in Corpus Christi, how many car dealers would we have? If 40 percent of Coastal Bend residents chose to drive to San Antonio to shop at larger malls for back-to-school clothes and shoes, what impact would that have on the retailers in Corpus Christi who rely on your business? In some cases, the battle is really about perception. Perception can be poisonous in that it often shuts out opportunity and shuts down possibility. Perception can make it impossible to imagine what could happen when people decide to change how things are. If you want your airport to have more flights, is there something you can do to help make that happen? If you think too many flights are delayed or canceled at CCIA, have you compared the performance record of the airlines at CCIA to those in other cities? You might be surprised. And if you have a bad experience with an airline at CCIA, let the airline know. They monitor customer complaint rates and will respond if they see a trend in the wrong direction. If it seems that flights out of CCIA are too expensive, compare the costs of flights from other airports and factor in what you’ll actually spend in gas and

YOUR AIRPORT CAN ONLY GROW AIR SERVICE IF THERE IS DEMAND FOR IT.

wear-and-tear on your vehicle, the time you’ll spend on the road in traffic and the higher costs of parking at the other airports. But most importantly, think about the fact that your airport can only grow air service if there is demand for it. That means more of you making a conscious decision to FlyCCIA so that you can help your airport grow service. Let us know where you want to go. Let us know how you plan to get there. Let us know if having three major airlines serving your airport is important to you, and if you are committed to making things happen here at home. Make the choice to FlyCCIA when it makes sense for you, your family or your business. Make the choice to support the air service that is here and the airlines that have been committed to our community for 35 to 40-plus years. There may be times when your schedule or the demands of your trip simply don’t allow it. But when you can make the choice – remember the role you can play in changing things.

KIM BRIDGER-HUNT is the marketing manager at CORPUS CHRISTI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT. She can be reached at kimb@cctexas.com.

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VCLEMENTS/BIGSTOCK.COM

By: KIM BRIDGER-HUNT

Bar, Wine, Beer & Spirits 4238 S. Alameda Town & Country Shopping Center Corpus Christi

M-F 5pm - Midnight Saturday 4pm - Midnight Sunday 11:30am - 6pm I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

TASTE

This recipe for banana bread cinnamon roles makes 12 servings. INGREDIENTS: 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast 1 cup milk or plant-based milk 3 tablespoons, plus 1/4 cup butter, divided 1/3 cup, plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (maple extract is also excellent) 1 very-ripe mashed banana 1 sliced banana 3 cups flour 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon Optional: 1/3 cup crushed pecans or chocolate chips Glaze: 2 1/4 cups powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon melted butter and/or a few teaspoons of milk to thin the mixture to desired consistency INSTRUCTIONS:

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

Can you really go wrong with something that’s both banana bread and cinnamon rolls in one? By: MANDY ASHCRAFT Photos by: DUSTIN ASHCRAFT

1/ In a microwaveable bowl, melt 3 tablespoons of butter with milk, stirring every 30 seconds of microwave time until mixture is very warm (but not scalding) and butter is completely melted. 2/ Pour into a mixing bowl or into the bowl of a stand mixer, and sprinkle yeast over the top. Let it sit for 10 minutes. 3/ Add 2 tablespoons of sugar, salt, mashed banana and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth. 4/ Add flour slowly, using a dough hook if available, until a sticky dough ball is formed. 5/ Place dough ball in a bowl sprayed with non-stick spray, and cover with plastic wrap. Make sure the bowl is large enough to allow the dough to double in size. Allow to rise for 1 hour. 6/ Turn dough ball out onto a counter top dusted with flour, and press it into a large rectangle approximately 10” by 18” (but it doesn’t have to be exact). You want to be able to roll it into a log. 7/ Melt 1/4 cup butter, and brush it over entire rectangle reserving about a tablespoon of it to brush over the top. Sprinkle with cinnamon, 1/3 cup sugar, sliced banana and pecans/chocolate chips if you’re using them. Roll entire dough rectangle into one long, even log. Cut into disks using a serrated knife. You should be able to cut it into at least 12 cinnamon rolls. 8/ In a greased or lined 8” by 8” baking pan (or a small casserole dish, even a pie dish; the dough is going to expand and fit as it rises, so just make sure there’s room for growth), place disks of rolled dough next to one another. Brush the tops with remaining melted butter. Let it sit on the counter and rise again for 30 minutes. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. 9/ Bake for 30 minutes until golden brown. 10/ To glaze, mix 1 tablespoon of melted butter with 2 1/4 cups of powdered sugar and add milk until you can smear it over warm rolls easily. Maple extract is also excellent in the glaze; add 1/2 teaspoon if you have it on-hand.

For more information, visit www.mandyashcraft.com.

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5301 Everhart Rd., Ste. C, Corpus Christi 361-855-7777 www.printscharmingroyaltees.com facebook.com/printscharmingroyaltees I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

NONPROFIT

DRIVING FORCE

or many nonprofit organizations, volunteers are the driving force that fulfills their mission. While fundraising is a necessary means to keep operations running, people who give breath to the organization’s purpose by turning intent into action based on their sole desire to be involved is crucial to its overall effectiveness and survival. Often, a certain type of volunteer is sought after to fill a specific role. Much like a job position, there are requirements that tend to deter more potential volunteers than create opportunities for new means of involvement. This can lead to staff spinning their wheels to find the “right” people they need, while putting more pressure on tenured volunteers to progressively take on more that can then start them on the path toward volunteer burnout. It is common knowledge that a majority of nonprofit organizations are functioning with limited resourc-

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WHILE THERE IS AN URGENT NEED FOR ADVOCATES, THERE ARE MANY ROLES A PERSON WHO IS INTERESTED IN SUPPORTING CASA CAN FILL.

es that create a dependency for volunteers, and at the same time, there are organizations structured to be volunteer-driven. Volunteer recruitment and coordination usually is the responsibility of one or two staff to oversee. There are typically established practices in place from years past that have been exhausted to where they are now close to being ineffective. So what is the solution for an organization that is facing volunteer extinction? When those you are reaching cannot do what you’ve defined as what you need them to do, ask them what they can do. Find out what their strengths are, and what they have to offer. It may not fill an established volunteer role, but maybe they can take over a time-consuming staff responsibility that will create an opportunity for staff to utilize new recruitment efforts to find the volunteers for whom there is an immediate need. Another option for engaging community support is through group service projects. They may not contribute directly toward a defined need, but they can offer new resources and a newsworthy story that increases awareness and exposure for the organization, potentially reaching those who can provide resources needed. CASA of the Coastal Bend is a volunteer-driven, nonprofit organization whose mission is to train volunteers to advocate for children in crisis from Aransas, Nueces and San Patricio Counties. Last year, 120 volunteers helped 331 children in foster care find their forever homes; however, there

LIGHTFIELD STUDIOS/BIGSTOCK.COM, COOKIESTUDIO/BIGSTOCK.COM

Interesting in serving as a voice for children? There are many ways you can support or volunteer for CASA of the Coastal Bend. By: SAMANTHA KOEPP-STEMPLINGER

were an additional 845 children in foster care without someone to advocate for their best interest. While there is an urgent need for volunteers to serve as advocates, it is not the only role a person who is interested in supporting or volunteering for CASA can fill. CASA ambassadors are needed to assist in finding and creating opportunities in the community to raise awareness about the organization and the need for people to stand up and be a voice for children in foster care. Current volunteer support positions include:  Community outreach: includes researching and coordinating involvement with community events  Telephone recruitment: includes following up with those who have expressed interest in donating or volunteering  Booking presentations: includes researching opportunities with community groups to schedule speaking engagements for CASA  Information distribution: includes finding locations to drop off CASA information for public display  Creative support: includes creating items needed as “thank-yous,” community reminders, support gift bags, recognition gifts, etc. While the volunteers who fill these roles are not serving children in foster care, they are helping us reach others who can. We also welcome groups to reach out to us if interested in providing resources and opportunities that can benefit the foster youth our advocates serve, our volunteers and our program in general. Learn more about CASA and the rewards that come with serving as the voice of a child. Attend a brief, non-committal information session to hear about the roles and requirements of a CASA volunteer. Information sessions are held at the CASA office every Wednesday at noon.

For more information, contact Samantha at samantha@coastalbendcasa.org or call 361-884-2272.

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Saratoga Services Sand, Select Fill, & Dirt Products Mike Hurst or Phil Hurst LOCATED AT: 7001 County Rd. 37, Corpus Christi | (361) 851-8500 MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 270664, Corpus Christi, TX 78415 54

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Your One Stop Destination Venue for Live Music & Sports Entertainment on the South Side Like us On Facebook for daily specials and events

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SUNDAY, $2.50 WELL, $2.50 DOMESTIC DRAFTS

6601 Everhart Road • Corpus Christi, TX 78413 • 361.814.2010 Monday-Sunday 3pm - 2am www.southtexasicehouse.com

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