Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine Business Nov/Dec 2020 by Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine

COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY

BUILDING THE BEST LONE STAR TRS

IMPACT & INSPIRATION

JAY WISE NOV/DEC 2020

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contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

18 COVER STORY JAY WISE

From a youth on the wrong side of the tracks to a successful professional and community servant, this local business star advocates for youth, veterans and many more through his dedication to nonprofits.

22 PROFILE

LONE STAR TRS

Martin Ortiz, Jason DeLeon and their team support their community and provide solutions for all your construction needs.

BUSINESS COACH 10 Don't Do It–Outsource It!

FEATURE 12 Bringing Life Back to the Dock 14 Seasonal Scams 16 Holiday Happenings

TRAVEL 26 Terminal TLC

TASTE 28 Party-Ready!

NONPROFIT 30 Spirit of Giving

COVER AND TABLE OF CONTENTS PHOTOS BY: TWINS MEDIA 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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MEET THE STAFF COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2020

ADRIAN GARZA PUBLISHER adrian@inspirecoastalbendmag.com 361.548.1044

PUBLISHER Adrian Garza PUBLISHER & OPERATIONS Holly Lewis EDITOR Erin O’Brien DESIGN DIRECTOR Elisa Giordano

HOLLY LEWIS PUBLISHER & OPERATIONS holly@inspirecoastalbendmag.com 479.935.0868

ERIN O'BRIEN EDITOR erin.editorial@gmail.com

SOCIAL MEDIA Morgan Bartel CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mandy Ashcraft Kim Bridger-Hunt Tom Curry Katie Galan Jacqueline Gonzalez Christina Hunter-Villeda Samantha Koepp-Stemplinger Christian Lapuz Connie Laughlin Kathleen Naderer Sarona Winfrey PHOTOGRAPHY Dustin Ashcraft TWINS Media

ELISA GIORDANO DESIGN DIRECTOR elisa@inspirecoastalbendmag.com 210.716.5320

www.inspirecoastalbendmag.com For advertising information or editorial comments, please call 479-935-0868 or email holly@inspirecoastalbendmag.com.

MORGAN BARTEL SOCIAL MEDIA morgan@inspirecoastalbendmag.com 620.417.5392

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

WHO ELSE IS SEARCHING FOR A SILVER LINING? In a time where we all are experiencing uncertainty, fear, unrest and, let’s just say it, “borderline hysteria” – the one thing that is for certain is we all can breathe a big sigh of relief that 2020 will soon be a thing of the past. Now, I think it might be a bit presumptive to think that 2021 will be so much better; however, something in me feels quite welcoming of the New Year. And, for now, that may just serve as my silver lining. The positive I think we can all draw from the bulk of this bizarre year is the demand for each of us to escape our comfort zone. We’ve been forced to learn to use technology we have never used before, to learn more about our children’s study habits and how to teach them, to learn to be more attentive to our health and to completely change the way we do business. Our normal behavior is no longer normal. Day-to-day life seems to be a bit more interesting, frustrating and enlightening all at the same time. This year will surely be unforgettable for all of us who lived it! Looking forward to “what’s next” comes with a mix of anxiety and excitement. Who will be our new or not-so-new leaders? Will a COVID-19

vaccine be ready for the public? When will we be able to lay down the mask and gather again? Will our businesses and families recover from all the setbacks? All these questions race through my head, and I cannot help but yearn for a “give.” I continue to tell myself that “Something has gotta give!” So, again, who else is searching for a silver lining? I think you, too, will find there is a silver lining still to be had in most things. We just have to look hard enough. I hope you will find inspiration in the pages of this issue to grab your interest, refresh your tired and overwhelmed 2020 mind and start looking ahead to a brighter tomorrow. Godspeed.

Holly Lewis, Publisher holly@inspirecoastalbendmag.com

The Inspire team wishes you a blessed holiday season full of joy, love, compassion and good health!

LET’S GET SOCIAL! 8

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361.884.8973 | www.stellarnrgsolutions.com I N S P I R E C O A S TA L B E N D M A G . C O M

BUSINESS COACH

Don’t Do It – Outsource It! How a PEO can get your business on the right track BY: CONNIE LAUGHLIN

It is common practice for businesses to outsource their accounting to a CPA, as everyone knows the importance of this professional service. Another example is IT service companies. What most employers don’t really consider is that their largest asset isn’t their capital or money – it’s their employees! Therefore, many important employer initiatives and procedures go overlooked, because no one’s adequately trained or prepared to handle these numerous processes. Professional services are needed, no matter if you have 10 employees or over 100. And that service provider is called a professional employer organization (PEO). Today’s human resources (HR) outsourcing solutions offer businesses the best protection from costly legal entanglements, and they guarantee you’re on the right track. And it just feels good to know your company is in the best hands because you’re letting the pros do what they do best.

Fortune 500 companies with HR expertise in-house implement a full scope of HR initiatives to maximize employee productivity, avoid costly problems and ultimately increase and protect profits. Smaller companies without that expertise are at a competitive disadvantage. Today, we are lucky to see that PEOs have evolved to become a perfect fit, providing all these valuable tools to a business with only a handful of employees. If you’re outsourcing your HR, you’re no longer going it alone, as PEOs share some

small amount of time spent now will take a lot off your plate in the long run. Prior to signing up with a PEO, fully understand their communication style, and, if possible, take the time to meet the various people you will be working with. How easy are they to reach, and how quickly will they respond to your needs? Where are they located? Are they customer service oriented? What are their levels of education and experience, and do they have the necessary licensing? Also, look to see if they are

“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” – PROVERBS 21:5

DON’T DO ALL OF IT IN-HOUSE! The essential goal of business owners and their workforce is to be financially productive, not to waste time on things that don’t generate revenue. It is hard enough to keep pace with effective strategies to increase net profit, so why would any business decide to keep HR in-house when it is so much more effective to outsource it? Outsourcing reduces liability, keeps overhead predictably low and promotes the overall productivity of a company.

of the liability and provide the best risk management protection. They provide professional HR expertise at a fraction of the cost to do it in-house.

affiliated with industry associations, such as ESAC (it’s like FDIC, for banks). These are all very important. And let’s not forget to check references.

EVALUATE, THEN UTILIZE A PRO

If you are not highly certified in HR, safety and the multiple areas of risk management, how do you know your manager is really on top of it? So, don’t do it – outsource it!

Long-lasting successful relationships require a bit of vetting. This is when your due diligence is important; be sure to select the best PEO for your business. The

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

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FEATURE

Bringing Life Back to the Dock With a new design invoking the Old Town coastal theme of Port Aransas, Fisherman’s Wharf is back and ready to serve. BY: CHRISTINA HUNTER-VILLEDA

hree years later, the Coastal Bend still recovers from the effects of Hurricane Harvey. In Port Aransas, sites and structures were severely damaged after the Category 4 hurricane hit. Although this tragedy stalled the growing progress of Port Aransas, the community is resilient and has seen opportunities to recover and reset some of the most beloved businesses in the Coastal Bend. Fisherman’s Wharf was turned into an opportunity for PAFW Holdings, LLC. The new ownership anticipated building back the

structures and improving the existing site parking, marina and restaurant, but the new plans also include an icehouse, a fish cleaning and bait house and a second restaurant. On the water’s edge, the bulkhead, docks, fuel pumps and power pedestals are all upgraded, as well, serving as one of only two locations in Port Aransas for boat refueling. It also houses the Wharf Cat and Scat Cat offshore fishing tours, as well as many other offshore and inshore fishing excursions, nature tours and fishing tournaments.

PHOTOS AND RENDERINGS BY TURNER RAMIREZ ARCHITECTS

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Port Aransas has a pure coastal ambiance. With the help of Turner Ramirez Architects, the Fisherman’s Wharf design concept aligns with the Old Town coastal theme of Port Aransas on the waterfront. The new ownership wanted to stay consistent with and empower the old Fisherman’s Wharf aesthetic and what it used to be known for. From the parking side, the exterior gray siding with crisp white trim relates to the soft surrounding coastal architecture with the vibrant red Fisherman’s Wharf logo and sign branded on the façade. Although the complex holds modern facilities, the exterior pays homage to the classic coastal cottage. The water side holds the marina with a boardwalk element for people to walk along and enjoy the oceanfront landscape. The new Fisherman’s Wharf opened in mid-June and serves Port Aransas as it always has for decades. The site welcomes guests into a coastal setting with a second restaurant on the way, Grumbles Seafood Co.

The new ownership wanted to stay consistent with and empower the old Fisherman’s Wharf aesthetic.

The main goal for Brantley Gwin, part of PAFW Holdings, LLC, is to “bring life back to the dock,” and the Port Aransas community has been very supportive thus far. Although all of the planned improvements are not completely finished, Fisherman’s Wharf is back, new and improved, and ready to serve the Coastal Bend.

To see more about the facilities and offerings at Fisherman’s Wharf, please go to www.fishermanswharfporta.com.

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FEATURE

Seasonal Scams Three common holiday scams and how to avoid them BY: KATIE GALAN

he holiday season is here! Although the pandemic will certainly change how we prepare, consumers are still planning to shop and celebrate. Unfortunately, scammers are also ready for the holidays. With your mind on finding the perfect gifts and the best deals, they hope you won’t be watching for fraud. Use these tips from your Better Business Bureau (BBB) to avoid common holiday scams this year.

Buying directly from stores you know and trust is the best way to avoid being scammed.

Seasonal employment scams Many companies and industries hire extra employees during the holidays to help with increased business. This is a perfect opportunity for scammers to put out fake “help wanted” ads. Use these tips to stay safe while looking for seasonal job opportunities: • Know the signs. Being aware of the red flags of employment scams can help you avoid them. Employers asking for upfront payment for a job, job offers without interviews and big money for small jobs are all major signs of employment scams. • Don’t work before you’re hired. A legitimate company will not ask you to begin a project before hiring you. Before starting any work, ask for an offer letter or for confirmation in writing. This should include details about the job and compensation. Hot toy scams Each year, a few toys are more popular than the rest, and when they begin to sell out in stores, parents look elsewhere to find them. They might find a legitimate-looking website that claims to have them, maybe even on sale! Unfortunately, after purchasing the toy, it never arrives, and they discover the website and offers were fake. These tips can keep your wallet safe when searching for this year’s hot toys: • Buy from reputable retailers. Buying directly from stores, in person and online, that you know and trust is the best way to avoid being scammed. You can go to their business profile on bbb.org to find their rating and customer reviews. Also be sure their website has valid customer service information.

• Watch for extra-low prices. Unreasonably low prices and discounts are often red flags of a scam. Remember, if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Delivery scams Delivery scams and package theft can take several forms. They may be phishing emails from scammers posing as the delivery company, or fake “missed delivery” tags, which attempt to get your personal information. Some consumers find that packages are stolen off their doorstep before they arrive home from work. To avoid these situations, use these tips: • Take precautions. If you are having a fragile or valuable item delivered, purchase shipping insurance. You can also track packages or request that a signature be required for the package to be delivered. • Watch for emails about missed deliveries. Most legitimate delivery services leave a missed delivery notice on your door. An email could be a phishing scam. From everyone at BBB serving the heart of Texas, have a safe and happy holiday season!

This article was provided by Katie Galan, regional director. For more information, visit www.bbb.org.

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Lone Star TRS L.L.C.

Thank you Veterans!

(361) 992-9448

“For All Your Construction Needs.”

WE SALUTE AND REMEMBER ALL WHO SERVED

god bless america

By United with LoneStar TRS

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FEATURE

Holiday Happenings La Palmera: still the place for holiday fun BY: SARONA WINFREY

ard to believe, but the holidays are just around the corner. Although things will obviously look a little different this year due to COVID-19 concerns, Santa Claus will be making his annual visit to La Palmera with a special event – complete with social distancing – to celebrate his arrival on Thursday, Nov. 19. La Palmera’s traditional holiday event, featuring Santa’s Magical Illuminated Parade, presented by Apollo Towing, will be replaced with Santa’s Arrival Drive and Wave Parade. Instead of spectators sitting and watching the parade roll by, it will be the spectators who drive their vehicle by parade participants stationed all along the front of the mall. Santa’s Arrival Drive and Wave Parade route will be open from 7-9 p.m. featuring musical performances, entertainment, holiday characters and, of course, Santa himself. Details will be posted on the “Holiday Happenings” page at lapalmera.com. “La Palmera has hosted Santa’s arrival here in Corpus Christi for more than a decade,” said Amanda Sanchez, La Palmera general manager. “It’s unfortunate we can’t host our regular parade and indoor activities because it’s become a tradition for thousands in our community, but we feel as if we have come up with a fun and safe alternative for Santa’s arrival – and photos – this year.” “Safe” Santa visits will be available Friday,

Nov. 20, through Thursday, Dec. 24. For in-person visits in Center Court, there will be a life-size plexiglass holiday photo frame separating Santa and his guests, which will be incorporated into the keepsake photos. Guests will also have the option of virtual visits with Santa, which can be recorded as a keepsake. Virtual Santa visits are Monday through Thursday from 8-11 a.m. with in-person visits those days from noon until closing. Each Friday through Sunday, Santa will be in Center Court only for in-person visits during mall hours. All Santa visits, both in-person or virtual, are reservation-only this year, so there will be no walk-ups. Guests can go to the “Holiday Happenings” page at lapalmera.com for more information and reservations. Although La Palmera regularly holds multiple Pet Night events, the mall is forgoing the designated evenings this year, instead allowing guests to use the online reservation system to book pet photos at any available time. Only dogs and cats are permitted, and all animals must remain on a leash or in a carrier at all times. And while the holiday season means beloved traditions at La Palmera, it also means the start of the biggest shopping season of the year. Guests will find popular stores such as Buckle, Bath & Body Works, francesca’s, H&M, Kendra Scott, MAC, Michael Kors, Oakley and Vans,

“La Palmera has hosted Santa’s arrival here in Corpus Christi for more than a decade.”

as well as seasonal favorites including Calendar Club and Holiday Hills. This year, shoppers will also find new options for holiday shopping including the new Lush, the socially and environmentally conscious retailer known for its all-natural hair, face and body products, and fashion-forward jewelry specialist Lovisa, featuring on-trend fashion jewelry at ready-to-wear prices. “We’re very excited about the new retail and dining options, including a new Paramount Jewelers slated to open in time for the holidays,” Sanchez said. For those who can’t decide what gifts to buy, a La Palmera gift card is the perfect choice. Available at Concierge in denominations from $10 to $500, the cards are good at most La Palmera stores and food locations.

La Palmera events, including times and dates, are subject to change. For more information on La Palmera, go online to www.lapalmera.com, follow us on Facebook or call 361-991-3755.

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Joseph C. “Jay” Wise, Jr., CRPC ®

The Wise/Flores Team

Senior Vice President / Resident Director Financial Advisor-Portfolio Advisor

Merrill Lynch Wealth Management

800 N. Shoreline Blvd., Suite 1800N Corpus Christi, TX (361) 887-4306 or 1-877-812-3762 joseph_wisejr@ml.com www.fa.ml/wise-flores

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//COVER STORY

Opportunity is challenge, and challenge is opportunity.â&#x20AC;?

COMMUNITYDRIVEN PROFESSIONALISM By: JACQUELINE GONZALEZ Photos by: TWINS MEDIA

After a rough upbringing, local business professional, Jay Wise, thrives on making a significant impact on the community through dedication to nonprofits and advocacy for youth.

LOCAL LEADERS WHO CARE DEEPLY ABOUT HELPING THE COMMUNITY AND HAVE THE ABILITY TO INFLUENCE THE PEOPLE LIVING THERE WILL HAVE THE GREATEST IMPACT. JOSEPH “JAY” WISE, LOCAL BUSINESS LEADER, HAS FOUGHT THROUGH ADVERSITY TO BECOME SUCCESSFUL AND CONTINUES TO WORK HARD TO ENSURE THAT HE PAYS IT FORWARD AND GIVES BACK TO HIS COMMUNITY. CURRENTLY, HE IS THE VICE PRESIDENT OF A SUCCESSFUL FINANCIAL FIRM THAT HE HAS BEEN EMPLOYED WITH FOR THE LAST 34 YEARS, BUT THE ROAD TO SUCCESS WAS NOT WITHOUT ITS BUMPS. As a young boy growing up in Houston, Jay found himself on the wrong side of the tracks due to poor decision-making. He didn’t put much effort into school because he wasn’t too concerned about education. So, when it came time for graduation and students had to visit the school counselor for guidance, Jay was turned away due to his previous behavior.

At that time, the words hurt, but as Jay looks back, he realizes that the counselor was right to reject him at that moment, because it propelled him into making some life changes. He began thinking about his future and asked God to give him another chance to do the right thing. God answered by guiding Jay to enlist in the Marine Corps, which marked the moment his life would change for the better. Jay entered the Marine Corps with the idea that being a grunt was all brawn and no brain, which he was O.K. with, but he quickly learned otherwise, as “they teach you that the mental component is primary and the physical component is an afterthought because you win through your brain, not through your body.” His path to change began when he was placed in a technical arena after scoring high in technology on a test. During this time, he moved up in rank quickly; he was offered a position as an officer, but those four years brought Jay a new appreciation for education, so instead, he pursued a college degree. He graduated with honors from Del Mar College and then transferred to the University of Houston, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Soon after, he began acquiring skills at a firm he went to work for and won many

JAY HANDLES WHAT LIFE BRINGS EVERY DAY THROUGH AN INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE THAT HE CAME UP WITH AS A TEENAGER. AT THE END OF EACH DAY, HE ASKS HIMSELF, “JAY, DID YOU DO THE VERY BEST YOU COULD DO?” NO MATTER HOW THE CHIPS MAY FALL, IF THE ANSWER IS YES, HE’S SATISFIED AND VOWS TO TRY AGAIN THE NEXT DAY.

It doesn’t matter how many times you get knocked down. What matters is how many times you get back up.”

Jay also serves as board chairman of the Museum of Science and History and Corpus Christi International Airport. He serves on the board for the Corpus Christi Symphony, the Botanical Gardens and the Texas A&M Islander Foundation. He also served as past president of the USS Lexington and continues to serve on the board. Along with success come obstacles, and Jay understands that they are endless and they’re daily. However, he agrees that we should thrive on them and allow them to help us grow. “Opportunity is challenge, and challenge is opportunity,” Jay says. He strongly feels that if people are not failing throughout numerous attempts, then there is room for more effort. He states that the key to persevering through the struggles is that “It doesn’t matter how many times you get knocked down. What matters is how many times you get back up.”

awards, which led to being offered the position of project manager in New York. However, he had no desire to move to the East Coast, so instead, he came to the Coastal Bend, where he would begin working for the successful financial firm, Merrill Lynch. This position was perfect for Jay due to his background in computer science, but also because “I’m surrounded by the best technology in the world,” says Jay, “and I get to interact with people, which I love.” In addition to helping his clients achieve their financial goals, Jay also enjoys giving back to his community, especially in any capacity where he can help youth. Over the years, he’s become involved with nonprofits that attempt to help end hunger, educate, thank the military and help the community and society stay safe. “I’ve had periods in my life where I was truly starving, and I’ll do anything to help prevent that for others,” says Jay, so he worked with Catholic Charities and Metro Ministries to achieve this goal. His newfound appreciation for education led him to serve as president of the Del Mar College Foundational Board to help our youth have the opportunity to advance in society. In an effort to give thanks to the military for helping shape him into the successful and educated person he is today, he donates his time as chairman of the board for the USO. He’s also a firm believer in safety, so he served as president of the Police Foundation.

As Jay reflects on his life, he remembers a photo from Beach to Bay that sparked a debate between family members on whether the man in the photo was Jay. The photo features runners at the base of the JFK, running ahead, but only one of them is looking back at the camera. There was a debate on whether this man was Jay, but his grandmother dispelled the argument by stating, “that’s not him; Jay never looks back.” This quote is spot on, because rather than looking back for more than reflection, he has a strong focus on his future and that of our community. Jay loves his job and his participation as a community servant. He hopes to continue to be a role model within the community and to continue engaging in the nonprofit world to try to help those who are less fortunate and those trying to find their way in the world. During his downtime, Jay thrives on any physical activity. His favorite by far is swimming, but he also loves to run and go horseback riding with his wife, Conni. In addition to physical activities, Jay loves to read and stay well informed about what is going on in the world, especially in the community that he loves. Jay’s fantastic work ethic, down-to-earth personality and dedication to our community and the well-being of others makes him a fantastic asset to Coastal Bend, and we’re sure to continue seeing great things from him in the future.

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// PROFILE

ONE CALL DOES IT ALL! From new builds to restorations, Lone Star TRS has the solutions for all your construction needs. By: KATHLEEN NADERER

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artin Ortiz, CEO and owner of Lone Star TRS, LLC, was 22 years old when he entered the construction business. Although he had no assets or liabilities, he had experience in the industry, a plan to build his own business and a determination to succeed – which was enough to get his loan application approved during the 1980s. Since then, Ortiz has dedicated his career to learning the ins and outs of construction. In fact, his knowledge of environmental restoration work, remediation and the insurance claims system has given him and his team members one of the best reputations in the Coastal Bend. “I’ve always had a passion for construction, and nothing compares to the thrill of making sure a job is done and done right,” he said. “I’ve enjoyed every single bit of it!” Over the years, Ortiz gained a solid network of insurance adjusters and agents, as well as an understanding of insurance policies. He and his team coordinate with insurance carriers on behalf of their clients to successfully navigate claims so homeowners get the best possible outcomes. Ortiz understands the importance of diversifying and expanding his business to cover all aspects of construction. In addition to handling large and small damage restoration projects, Lone Star TRS truly does it all: commercial and residential construction, roofing, facility maintenance and cleaning, foundation, remodeling and design, flooring and more. You may know some of their developments, like the Barcelona Estates or El Pascador de Mar condominiums.

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With his partners, Anthony Allbritain and Martin Quezada, Ortiz kept his business thriving during the turbulent times of the Great Recession. Although their original company, Texas Remediation Services, had to regroup as Lone Star TRS, quality service that customers can rely on has always served as the heart of Ortiz’s business. He credits the ethical, down-to-earth nature of his partners, his staff of seven and himself for this success. He further praises his network of contractors as the best in the Coastal Bend – people he’s known for a long time who have proven quality craftsmanship and personal integrity. However, hardship has struck the Lone Star TRS family in several other forms. Quezada unfortunately passed away in 2017, Allbritain left the company when he moved to Austin and Ortiz himself suffered a heart attack just a year ago. Fortunately, the Lone Star TRS team banded together to support each other and keep the business running smoothly each time. One of the key players in keeping this family owned and operated business fully functional during difficult times is Ortiz’s stepson, Jason DeLeon.

For help with all your residential and construction needs, contact Lone Star TRS at 361-992-9448 or lonestartrs@gmail.com, or go online to lonestartrs.com. Lone Star TRS is located at 3728 WOW Road, Ste. B.

Lone Star TRS also donates money, time and resources to many other local organizations like Robert Driscoll Middle School, the Wellness Foundation’s “Back to School” program, Toys for Tots, Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s Singer Songwriter Fundraiser and Bokenkamp Children’s Shelter by Upbring. “We’ll always be a company that stands by our community in times of need,” Ortiz said.

DeLeon joined the family business in 2015. Like Ortiz, he shared a passion for construction from a young age, joining the Innovation Academy at Moody High School, where he took architecture and engineering classes, and later pursuing an engineering degree at TAMUCC. DeLeon began his career as a laborer working on demolitions and remodels, driving the dump trailer, picking up debris, cleaning the job sites and completing other necessary tasks. Along with learning key skills for construction, remodeling and restoration, he developed important leadership qualities. “It’s important to stay grounded, humble and honest,” DeLeon said. By 2017, DeLeon became a project manager. He coordinated with contractors and other managers on several major projects, such as the 5th floor NICU at Driscoll Children’s Hospital. Lone Star TRS has had a working relationship with Driscoll Children’s Hospital. The company specializes in commercial operations, especially in a hospital setting, and has completed many other projects at the hospital over the years, including complete remodels of the NICU, 5th Floor, Health Center and Orthopedic amongst others. Their most recent project replaced the two main curtain walls on the glass towers.

When Ortiz was unable to work for six weeks after his heart attack, DeLeon stepped up and shouldered the responsibility of managing Lone Star TRS. Ortiz hopes to retire in five to six years, but knows his business will be in good hands and will continue to grow in a way that benefits the community he loves. DeLeon has recently completed the interview process that will make him the owner of the second ServiceMaster Restore franchise serving Corpus Christi and the surrounding areas. This new company will complement Lone Star TRS by offering remediation, cleanup and damage removal so that Lone Star TRS can focus on the rebuild. Although the companies are separate entities, they will share a warehouse and greatly benefit from the combined knowledge and leadership of Ortiz and DeLeon.

TRAVEL

Terminal TLC

Looking beyond the pandemic at CCIA BY: KIM BRIDGER-HUNT

hen the Hayden W. Head Terminal was officially opened in 2002, it was both a breath of fresh air and a wonderful new way to welcome visitors to Corpus Christi. This modern terminal, with its high ceilings, windows galore and spacious public pathways, really spoke to the community. We could truly say, “This is what Corpus Christi looks and feels like.” Since that time, the terminal has continued to be the fabulous gateway to our community that everyone imagined. That was nearly 20 years ago. The good news is that the terminal is still a beautiful building. It still represents everything we love about the Coastal Bend from the watery blues to the sky-lit colors that hang from the ceiling and adorn the walls. But it’s probably no secret that a nearly 20-yearold facility needs some rehabilitation. Particularly in need of modernization and replacement are many of the systems and big pieces of equipment in the terminal that customers rely on to get where they’re going. The elevators are nearly 20 years old. The escalators are beginning to show signs of wear in ways that cannot be remedied by routine maintenance work. The terminal has reached the point where investment in new equipment, repairs to aging roofs and the replacement of jet bridges and luggage systems will have to be considered. During the next several years, visitors to Corpus Christi International Airport (CCIA) will notice projects in the works and things taking on a shinier appearance. It is

not for the sake of being shiny, however, but rather, the need to give new life to a very important piece of the community. Despite the difficulties brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, people undoubtedly have a tremendous hunger and need for travel. With each month that passes, CCIA is hosting more and more travelers. In November, the airlines that serve CCIA will be operating about 75 percent of the flights and seats that were offered here this time last year. This is indicative of the airlines having a lot of confidence in this market. CCIA’s rebound has been quite phenomenal. Each month since April, traffic at CCIA has increased anywhere from 10 to 20 percent over the previous month. To date, we’ve seen the return of more than 50

The safety of our visitors, passengers, tenants and employees is our most important goal.

percent of our normal traffic. Future bookings at CCIA are outpacing the national average. No one knows what next month will bring or if we have cleared our last big COVID hurdle. The safety of our visitors, passengers, tenants and employees is clearly our most important goal right now. CCIA will continue our enhanced focus on cleaning and disinfecting the terminal and using technology that helps us maintain a safe environment for everyone. The airport staff will work to plan and pursue projects in a measured way so that the work will have the least possible negative impact on customers. And rest assured that when you are ready to travel again, CCIA will be ready for you. When you make the choice to FlyCCIA, you are investing in the future of your airport.

Kim Bridger-Hunt is the marketing manager at CCIA. For more information, contact her at kimb@cctexas.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CCIA

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PARTY-READY! Guacamole-inspired bruschetta with crispy baked avocado BY: MANDY ASHCRAFT, TOM CURRY AND CHRISTIAN LAPUZ PHOTO BY: DUSTIN ASHCRAFT

t’s appetizer season, even if the way we gather around them looks a little different this year. Inspired by guacamole, this party-ready appetizer samples the sweet tomato and vinegar flavors of traditional bruschetta against a tortilla chip-crusted avocado for a twist on the classic. This recipe makes approximately 16, but is easy to double if your guests prefer one in each hand.

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 clove minced garlic 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon honey 4 avocados: 2 ripe (soft) + 2 firm 1/3 cup cornstarch (or potato, tapioca or arrowroot starch) 1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon + 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided 1/4 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon pepper, divided 1 egg 1 tablespoon milk 1 cup finely crushed tortilla chips 1 teaspoon cumin 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 French baguette or 2 demi baguettes 1 cup chopped tomatoes (we used mini San Marzano)

Instructions: 1. To make avocado crema: Add 1 ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, minced garlic and 1/2 teaspoon salt to a food processor, and blend until completely smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use. 2. To make sweet balsamic glaze: Add vinegar and honey to a small pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce temperature to simmer about 10 minutes, or until it sticks to the back of a spoon. Set aside. Note: This can also be done without the honey for a tangier glaze. 3. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line and grease a baking sheet. 4. Create an assembly line to prepare the avocado for baking using three bowls: Bowl 1 should have starch with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper; Bowl 2 should have egg whisked with milk; and Bowl 3 should have crushed tortilla chips, cumin, paprika, 1/2 salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Ensure each bowl’s ingredients are mixed evenly. 5. Cut the 2 firm avocados in half, remove pits and skin, and slice into approximately 1/4-inch slices. 6. Going in order, toss slices in starch mix, then egg wash, then crushed chip mix, placing each coated piece on the baking sheet. 7. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. 8. Warm baguette(s) in the oven. Slice into preferred appetizer portions.. 9. Smash remaining ripe avocado with a fork. Top each bread slice with a spoonful. Press a baked avocado onto each one. 10. Top with chopped tomatoes and avocado crema, and drizzle with balsamic reduction. Garnish with green onion, and serve warm.

This recipe was provided by the Inspire Test Kitchen: Mandy Ashcraft, Tom Curry and Christian Lapuz. For more information, visit www.mandyashcraft.com.

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COASTAL BEND MAGAZINE

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We Salute all of the essential workers, healthcare and public service professionals who have served tirelessly on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Spirit of Giving In the 2020 holiday season, your generosity is needed more than ever. BY: SAMANTHA KOEPP-STEMPLINGER

f we wore backpacks to carry our emotions, we would all have some level of difficulty moving forward based on how we have been affected by the challenges of 2020. The multiple ways we have felt the external effects all come together to frame how we feel internally, where the biggest imprint of all is made and stays with us to shape our emotional health. How we feel influences our actions, the way we interact with others and how we shape the world around us. As we have experienced several new ways of living our lives throughout this year, the holiday season will be no different. The typical stress of planning accommodations for seeing loved ones will now be met with determining if it is safe and, if so, preparing precautionary measures. Being able to meet the expectations of providing gifts may be met with just being able to provide at all.

the ability to do so based on limitations of resources that are readily available. We’ve felt or witnessed tremendous heartache in abundance this year, and yet, in response, we have also felt, witnessed and/or shared tremendous generosity in abundance. That spirit of giving is what has helped many people continue to move forward with a bit more ease through giving a boost to their physical and, most importantly, emotional well-being. And it will certainly be needed even more in the months to come.

With circumstances changing without notice, no one really knows what we will be faced with until it is upon us. We hope the holidays will bring us to a familiar sense of being, but we still The ways to give this year may have the imprint of the previous be different than in years past months guiding us. due to social distancing; however, the needs have grown, as While we all have the potenhave the opportunities to offer tial to overcome the obstacles support. While some in-person forced upon us, not all have events will continue, others

THE HOLIDAY SEASON IS A TIME TO REFLECT ON BLESSINGS. will become virtual or will not happen at all based on a lack of resources (funding, space, volunteers, etc). If you previously attended fundraising events as a way of giving back and those events are cancelled or you prefer not to go in practicing social distancing, still consider supporting the organization by donating the price of a ticket(s) you would have purchased or by finding ways you can contribute to the cause. The holiday season is a time to reflect on blessings, and this year, that is going to be difficult for those who have faced hardships brought on by the events of this year. It’s amazing how an act of kindness in whatever capacity can change how both the person receiving and the person giving feel – which is the real gift. The more people’s worlds we can make better, the better we can make the world.

Many families will endure sorrow this holiday season, including children and their families involved in the child welfare system. If you are interested in finding out how you can better the world of a Coastal Bend child in foster care, attend a 45-minute Virtual CASA Info Session held every Wednesday at noon via Zoom. Visit www.casaofthecoastalbend.org, or find us on Facebook.

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Inspire Coastal Bend Magazine Business Nov/Dec 2020

Articles inside

Terminal TLC

Bringing Life Back to the Dock

Holiday Happenings

Seasonal Scams