December/January 2016-17

The Sweetest Season | A TASTY TOUR OF LOCAL SWEETS & TREATS

in The Coastal Bend

A Merry Mantel Holiday Home Décor

LEGACY OF THE LEXINGTON

Local Veterans preserve history of WWII aircraft carrier.

2 The Bend

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Membership matters:

Dr. Gentile is member of the elite American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and others too many to mention.

He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Did you know that in most states including Texas, any licensed physician can perform cosmetic procedures without being Board Certified in Plastic Surgery? Cosmetic surgeons such as Dr. Gentile have completed rigorous training in facial plastic surgery and plastic surgery. It is incumbent upon YOU to check that your surgeon is indeed Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

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He has over 25 years experience in Cosmetic Surgery. His surgery skills leave patients not only looking and feeling younger, but the true artistry of a skilled surgeon’s hand leaves patients with a more natural, youthful look. When you decide to have plastic surgery, it is because you want a specific outcome…and this outcome is dependent largely upon which plastic surgeon you choose.

Dr. Gentile has been practicing exclusively cosmetic surgery, as well as non-surgical cosmetic treatments for over 25 years employing the latest techniques. His concern for safety led him to develop the first in-office accredited surgical center in South Texas 20 years ago.

Dr. Herve Gentile is widely recognized as one of the nation’s top plastic surgeons with the nation’s highest credentials. He is nominated by the American Registry in the top 5% of America’s most honored professionals. Dr. Gentile is listed by Best Doctors©, Consumer Research Council of America©, and Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors© guide, as well as, many other professional accolades. All of these are chosen by an impartial resource that catalogs the top quality doctors after peer nomination with an extensive research and screening process.

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Need Help? | Locating property, Home plans, Interior Designing and Decorating, Financing 6 The Bend chomedesigns@aol.com •

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend] 361-779-9069 • www.facebook.com/customhomedesign03

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7

Contents DECEMBER/JANUARY | The Holiday Issue

Monthly | Departments

Features

Around the Bend 18 Style 22 Currents 24 Conversation 26 5 Best 28 Giving Back

Destinations 32 Quick Trip 34 Local Discovery

Health

56 Be Well 58 Fitness

Home & Garden 64 Gardening 66 Spaces

46

Makers of the Coastal Bend

Out & About 70 Arts & Culture 72 Celebration 74 Date Book 76 Social Hour

Cuisine

36

The Sweetest Season

82 Farm to Table 86 Dining Guide 88 The Dish 92 The Drink

Column 98 Looking Back

Copyright Š 2016 Gemstone Media, LLC. The Bend: Coastal Life Magazine is published by Gemstone Media, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without express written consent.

Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice, but is rather considered informative.

Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.

18

Holiday Family Fashions

8 The Bend

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Kennedy dental Care Pediatric Dentistry paulkennedydds.com

361- 992 - 9500

Saratoga Office:

6200 Saratoga Blvd, Bldg. 1 Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Orthodontics Alameda Office:

3435 S. Alameda, Ste. A Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Oral Surgery Calallen Office:

13725 Northwest Blvd, Ste. 270 Corpus Christi, TX 78410

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Enclave Office:

5525 S. Staples, Ste. A4 Corpus Christi, TX 78411

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10 The Bend

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Hollon Safe Company 227 44th St. Corpus Christi, TX 78405 1-888-455-2337

Jessica Gilmore & Zack Gilmore Owners

QUALITY. DURABILITY. WE LOCALLY MADE. BUILD

QUALITY.

Hollon Safes are designed, assembled and/or manufactured right here in Corpus Christi, Texas. Hollon Safes are designed with much higher security than any other gun safe available in the state. Zack Gilmore and his wife

HOLLON SAFES ADHERE TO THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF DESIGN Find our safes locally at these retailers.

AND DURABILITY IN THE INDUSTRY. Jessica started Hollon Safes 10 years ago, and have since provided quality safes throughout the Coastal Bend and the United States.

ABC Keys & Safes

2619 Ayers St. Corpus Christi, Tx 78404 (361) 884-5922

Eagle Lock & Key

Come by and visit our SCRATCH & DENT OUTLET 227 44th St. Corpus Christi, TX 78405

Visit us online - we have loads of safes

to choose from. Or search for dealers (888) 455-2337 | hollonsafe.com 14254 S P I D , #107 across the country in our nationwide 227 44thChristi, St., Corpus TXnetwork 78405 at Hollonsafe.com Corpus TX 78418Christi, dealer

The Republic Gun Safe has 300% THICKER steel then anything else on the market!

Danny Burns, Sales Manager, danny@hollonsafe.com Also like us on facebook.com • Hollon Safe (361)National 949-2233 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Buy a Hollon Gun Safe get a free pistol safe RG-22when Gunyou Safemention with 2-hour this ad!

Fire Test Certification thebendmag.com

11

December / January | Meet The Staff

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

MARKETING DESIGN: Jarred Schuetze

ART DIRECTOR: Nillo Studios

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Durrent

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jason Page Renée C. Gage Gabe Mancha

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS:

MANAGING EDITOR: Whitney Noble

jordan@thebendmag.com

AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT: Stefanie DeWaters

chris@thebendmag.com

THE BEND OFFICE:

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Rosana Sargent

Meet the Staff

Sharla Wilkins Contributing Writer

309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 Phone: 361.792.3606

CONTRIBUTORS: Justin & Kayla Butts Sharla Wilkins Jeff King Jo Anne Howell Caroline Randall Freeman Lexi Buquet Jimmy Wilden

SUBSCRIPTIONS: THEBENDMAG.COM

CONNECT WITH US @

thebendmag.com @thebendmag on Instagram and Twitter #CBLife

What's your favorite holiday treat?

Send us your tastiest recipes! #TBFavTreats

VOLUME 3/ISSUE 11

The Sweetest Season | A TASTY TOUR OF LOCAL SWEETS & TREATS

On the Cover Your holiday mantel doesn't have to be dripping in garland and antique Santa Clauses to be festive! Give it a fresh and cozy new look!

Staged by: Jo Anne Howell Photo by: Rachel Durrent

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

in The Coastal Bend

A Merry Mantel Holiday Home Décor

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2017

As a graduate from W. B. Ray High School, Sharla is a born and raised Corpus Christian. With only a few years outside Corpus in Austin and North Carolina, Sharla has lived in virtually all parts of this city: by Cole Park, the south side, Flour Bluff and the Island, which makes her as qualified as ever to write about her beloved city! Both of her parents were published authors, and she grew up watching them write, reading their manuscripts, and hearing them discuss plotting. She and her husband, Jason, have two fun-loving boys who are the center of their world. When Sharla does have that rare moment to herself, you’ll find her reading.

Right now, she has three books on her nightstand just waiting to be cracked open. She’s been known to stay up until 3 am just to finish a book, both because the book is so good, and because she’s too impatient to wait and see what happens. Self admitted, she’s ever slightly OCD and overly organized, until you throw kids into the mix! Her boys are her main source of inspiration in her personal life. For them, she wants to be her best self. Professionally, her inspiration is J.K. Rowling, whose Harry Potter manuscript was rejected by 12 different publishers before finally being accepted by a small publishing house. To Sharla, that is a great lesson in perseverance! Since writing for The Bend, she loves all the wonderful, interesting people she’s had the pleasure of meeting who she’d never have had the chance to meet if she weren’t interviewing them. It’s especially fun when her husband brings up a new place or restaurant to go to, or a local activity, she’ll usually respond with, “Oh, yeah. I know. I wrote an article about that."

12 The Bend

ADVERTISING:

LEGACY OF THE LEXINGTON

Local Veterans preserve history of WWII aircraft carrier.

361.651.1200

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RoseCosmeticSurgery.com

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13

Meet Our General Dentists ( practice limited to children )

Dec / Jan | Letter From The Publisher

How to Make Anything Alissa M. Chapman D.D.S.

Annie Rothe D.D.S.

Christina Mueller D.D.S

Kennedy Dental Care provides specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a “child-friendly” environment.

We focus on preventive care to help each child grow a healthy smile that will last a lifetime! www.paulkennedydds.com • 361.992.9500

I don’t think of myself as a craftsman, but I do make a magazine each month.

My wife and I started the magazine, because we saw a need for a lifestyle publication in the Coastal Bend. It’s been the biggest challenge of our short lives.

We don’t have the perfect formula yet, but each month we try to get better. We learn from our mistakes and listen to your input, because we don’t do it for ourselves. We are invested in this community, and more so, want to make it the best it can be for your children, our child, and (excited to announce) one on the way!

This month, I got to interview some of the most talented, creative, and passionate people in the Coastal Bend. What they had to say inspired me, and I hope their stories inspire you. From coffee to confetti, their separate crafts are distinct from one other, so it surprised me to discover how similar they are.

Each story began with a specific need or a problem to solve. Instead of giving up, each maker decided to do something about it. There was a lot of trial and error, but they didn’t give up. Each learned from their mistakes and continued to perfect their process and product. Passion was the driving force behind it all; a passion to create something or bring something to its full potential.

The most surprising discovery was how each maker was motivated by their customers and the community around their products. Bringing happiness to the people who enjoy their products, not selfish ambition, kept them moving forward.

I think it’s through the act of making that we make sense of life and the world around us. I have a passion for making magazines and telling great stories. I used to think that writing stories didn’t matter all that much, but I know now that is completely false. Maybe you think your passion is insignificant, or that it may not be unique enough to contribute. I believe that you couldn’t be more wrong. Every day we get the chance to mold ourselves, our culture, and our community. How do we do that? Just start making.

Favorite Page Sweet tooth or not, you don’t want to miss the sweetest spread to date. It was as fun as it was tasty to put together our guide to local sweets. Our entire conference table was covered in cakes, cookies and cupcakes. Each dessert was photographed individually before we indulged ourselves (as journalists, one must make sacrifices in the name of true and honest portrayals!). Be sure to enjoy some sweets this month and Happy Holidays from The Bend family to yours!.

Bottled at 40% alc by vol | 80 Proof | Distilled from grain

14 The Bend

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Phase II Available

Taylor Adcock 361-701- 3896

taylor@britestarconst.com villagebythebeach.com

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Located Near Packery Channel thebendmag.com

15

Serving South Texas Since 1947

William Tinnell, DDS

Dr. Tinnell has been practicing dentistry in Texas for over 30 years. He earned his Doctorate in Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Dental Branch in Houston, Texas, and has extensive experience in all aspects of general dentistry. His calm and compassionate demeanor allows him to deliver quality care with a focus on patient comfort and satisfaction.

Dr. Tinnell was born and raised in Corpus Christi, Texas and completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at Austin. He has been an active Rotarian for over 26 years, and enjoys playing music, surfing, sailing, birding, gardening and many other other outdoor activities.

Services: · Comprehensive Care · Veneers · Dental Implants · Crowns · Teeth Whitening

General Dentists: Prosthodontist: Sarah Medina, DDS Chad Allen, DDS, MS William Tinnell, DDS Alex Vial-Nadeau, DMD Nancy Coll, DMD Charles Allen, DDS

Corpus Christi: Portland: (361) 854-7999 (361) 643-0416 525 Doddridge Corpus Christi 101 Cox Drive, Portland, TX (361) 992-8900 allendentalgroup.co 6200 Saratoga Blvd #102, Corpus Christi

Fa la la la

F rog!

Everything you need to Deck the Halls this Christmas

Accessories • Appareal • Baby Clothes Furniture • Home Decor • Kids Toys Local Art & More!

1710 S. Alameda St. Corpus Christi, TX 78404 Monday - Saturday 9am to 5pm 361-881-1091

16 The Bend

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Around the Bend DECEMBER/JANUARY

STYLE 18 CURRENTS 22 CONVERSATION 24 5 BEST 26 GIVING BACK 28

What’s Inside 'Tis the season for holiday parties, family get-togethers, Christmas Eve service at church and, to top it all off, New Years Eve! Be sure sure you have the right attire for your family for each and every event!

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17

Around the Bend | Style

Fa La La

Fashions

Family fashions are the merriest during the holiday season!

With so many parties to attend and celebrations to have, dressing for the occasion really makes your spirits bright.

By: Jo Anne Howell Photo: Rachel Durret

Celebrate Christmas morning at home and coordinate your look with matching prints. This laid back style will take you from gifts to giving in comfort all day.

Get the Look: Mom’s Look: L&RK Boutique

Children’s Look:

Wrapped Gifts & Favors: Hanley Wood Floral: Nina Rothschild

Little Paper Crowns

NMR Designs

Pillow, Toys & Books:

Venue: Villa La Casita

Four Chicks In The Park

18 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Pendant by Lacy Weyler

Studio C Gallery, located within the Art Center of Corpus Christi, houses a variety of high quality, original artwork for your home or office, as well as, fine gifts and wearable art created by well respected Texas artists.

Studio C Gallery

Christmas church service is a time to step up your holiday dress. This is the time to formally dress yourself and children.

100 N Shoreline Corpus Christi, TX 361-881-8325 www.studiocgallery.com

Get the Look: Mom’s Look: Julian Gold Children’s Look: Little Paper Crowns Venue: Church of the Good Shepherd Wrapped Gift: Hanley Wood Calligraphy: Goldie Design Co

Hours

Mon-Fri 11am - 2:30pm Sat-Sun 10am - 2pm

Catering Available!

100 N Shoreline Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361-882-2047

Countdown to a closet fashion show with New Year styles in metallics and fancy trimmings! Metallic sequins rock the clock while you wait for the New Year’s kiss! Coordinating children in dressy looks means you're ready to ring in 2017! It's not a party without champagne - and these champagne colored outfits for children will be the toast of the town.

Get the Look: Mom’s Look: Julian Gold

Children’s Look: Little Paper Crowns China & Stemware: Hanley Wood Floral: Nina Rothschild NMR Designs Venue: Studio 1718 Party Supplies: Oh Goodie Designs

20 The Bend

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White Christmas...

Wishing You A Rockport-Fulton Style!

Waterfront Properties • Luxury Homes • Condominiums • Residential Homes • Rentals

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21

Around the Bend | Currents

Currents New Multi-Field Sports Complex A new regional sports complex will be constructed on 68 acres of city-owned property on Crosstown Expressway. The new facility will be built and run by San Antonio-based SQH Sports & Entertainment, Inc. (SQH), at no expense to local taxpayers.

They will build an all-inclusive sports complex that features numerous outdoor fields for various sports, and a multi-use field house, on land leased from the city through a forty year agreement. It’ll most certainly become a regional hub for sports programs, tournaments, and enrich the quality of life for our community. It is projected that the new sports complex will host more than 400,000 people yearly. Over the course of 10 years, the tax revenue the facility will generate is estimated at $18.8 million dollars – a great economic driving force. Once ground is broken, it is estimated to take approximately 18 – 24 months to complete. Hang in there, it is coming!

Ride Tride

Schanen Hike & Bike Trail The Corpus Christi Parks & Recreation Department just recently had a ribbon cutting for the newly developed Schanen Hike and Bike Trail. It is more than a mile-long gravel and concrete path that runs from Yorktown and Saratoga Boulevards along the Schanen storm waterway, connecting Snead, Whales, Cedar Ridge, and Breckenridge Parks. The community invested in the Schanen Hike & Bike Trail, along with the Bear Creek Hike & Bike Trail, through voter-approved 2008 and 2012 bonds and grants from the Texas Department of Transportation via the Metropolitan Planning Organization. Total project costs were approximately $1.6 million.

22 The Bend

Corpus Christi has approved a new rideshare program, called Tride.

Similar to Uber or Lyft in other cities, Tride is app-based. Users tap the app, and follow these three simple steps. 1.

Request a ride, 2. Get picked up, 3. Arrive at your destination and pay through your phone. Want to earn an extra buck on your time? Become a driver!

They are also excited to announce that they have an exclusive partnership with The Old Concrete Street Amphitheater and Rockits Whiskey Bar Saloon. Get home safe!

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361-413-0090 LIKE US ON

OR

DESIGNSBYDECOR@GMAIL.COM FURNITURE

GIFTS & ACCESORIES

1027 US HIGHWAY 181 • PORTLAND, TEXAS 78374 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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23

Around the Bend | Person of Interest How old were you when the attack happened?

I was 18 years old when they bombed Pearl Harbor.

What do you remember about the attack?

We were having role call in our quarters, so if they had hit our hanger they would have killed another 120 people. They dropped a bomb on the hanger adjacent to ours, and we thought a plane had blown up. So we ran out of the hanger and saw all of these planes in the air. When we saw the ball on the tail, we knew they were not our planes. There was a trench by the landing strip, so we got in. When the planes strafing us came across while we were laying in the bottom of that trench, the bullets were going in the wall above us. When a plane would fly by, we would run back to the hanger to grab machine guns and ammunition and then run back to the trenches.

Why is it important to remember Pearl Harbor?

Conversation with

Marvin T. Alexander, Pearl Harbor Survivor

75 years later, Corpus Christi resident, Mr. Alexander, will never forget December 7th, 1941.

By: Jordan Regas Photo: Jason Page

When did you join up with the Navy and why?

I applied for the Navy when I got out of school, and there was a waiting list because I wanted to be in aviation. There were very few people taken for aviation, so I had to wait four or five months. So they called me around Christmas and told me that I had been accepted. I signed up in 1941, but I applied in 1940. They called me, and I went in to visit with them and they promised me I would fly.

24 The Bend

What happened next?

When I got out of boot camp training I went to the Naval Air Station at San Diego. From San Diego I went to Pearl Harbor. They transferred the whole squadron to Ford Island at Pearl Harbor. If you are familiar with Pearl Harbor, there is a whole diamond head and an island in the middle of the lagoon by the bay.

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Well, it was the beginning of WWII. We lost about 3,700 people. So that is a lot of people. It brings back a lot of memories that I don’t want to remember. Afterward, they asked some volunteers to go down, and we took the dead out of the water. If you have ever smelt burning flesh, it stays with you for a lifetime. Luckily I can’t smell now, so it doesn’t affect me anymore.

Have you stayed in touch with any of the other survivors?

Well, most of them are dead; I’m the only one left from my crew. My granddaughter was at Pearl Harbor last year. She got to talking to the guide taking her around Ford Island and mentioned her granddaddy was stationed in VP-24. He said he was, too. So they got to talking and it turns out we flew on the same crew on the battle to Midway. So we left Pearl Harbor in June of 1942, and went to The Battle of Midway.

He has called me, and I talked to him a couple of times. He still lives in Hawaii, so we will make contact when I get there.

Are you planning to go back?

I’m going there for the 75th anniversary.

My kids are flying me there.

THE PORT FOR LEISURE AND LUXURY

a legacy of style since 1955

A variety of upscale shops and dining just a stroll away from the seaside 3850 S Alameda | Corpus Christi, TX

ALEXIS HUNTER INTERIORS | ANN TAYLOR LO F T BKK THAI KITCHEN & BAR | CHICO’S FOUR CHICKS IN THE PARK FRANCISCO’S SALON | GOLDSMITH J EWELE R S GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY | HESTER’S CAF E J ULIAN GOLD | LIT TLE PAPER CROWNS | M A R KE T PETER BARR DESIGNING J EWELERS PIL AR FASHION & FOLK ART | TALBOTS | THE PO S T

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25

Around the Bend | 5 Best

5

Best

Tamale flavor checklist

Tasty Tamales

Unwrap these precious gifts from the masa heavens that are best eaten fresh and homemade, just like Grandma made ‘em.

By: Jeff King

1

Huerta’s Tamales

When other shops employ a machine to help meet the demands of the holidays, the Huerta family continues to make each tamale by hand, even grinding corn for their masa in-house to ensure a homemade taste. Be sure to try their original pork and take advantage of their custom menu for unique tamale offerings. Keep an eye out for their bus around town!

3533 S. Staples, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 852-4868

2

Rosie’s Tamale

Rosie’s carries a strong reputation in town for consistent quality and the ability to fulfill larger-than-usual orders with ease. Visit their website to see their tasty lineup of fresh, frozen, and raw tamales.

Caution: their pork and beef extra hot tamales are not for the faint of heart. Stop by their new location at Airline and SPID. See all locations at rosietamales.com (361) 993-0653

3

Granny’s Hot Tamales

Granny’s lays claim to sparking the craze over the jalapeno cream cheese tamale that has emerged as a local favorite. Their original pork and brisket tamales are a staple for any holiday gathering,

26 The Bend

and don’t leave without their homemade hot sauce to give the tamales an extra kick. Granny’s offers free delivery for five dozen or more.

3131 McArdle, Ste C, Corpus Christi, TX 78415 (361) 854-1400

4

El Ranchero Tortilla Factory

Specializing in homemade corn and flour tortillas, El Ranchero is also no stranger to homemade tamales. This shop has produced and sold their own corn masa since 1975 and now crafts their own batches of pork, bean, and chicken tamales in either regular or spicy. Make these a staple at your holiday gatherings.

3901 Carmen St., Corpus Christi, TX 78405 (361) 884-2503

5

Hacienda Vieja Mexican Restaurant & Cantina

Known for the cantina-styled atmosphere and mouth-watering menu, Hacienda Vieja is also a seasonal tamale stop for those holiday bulk orders. They offer traditional pork tamales that are rolled in their kitchen and freshly steamed. Stop in for a margarita and some enchiladas, and place your tamale order for the holidays on your way out!

4301 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 994-6530

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See how many different flavors you can taste this season: ☐☐Pork ☐☐Pork and beef ☐☐Spicy pork ☐☐Brisket ☐☐Chicken ☐☐Spicy chicken ☐☐Spinach and feta ☐☐Chicken cream cheese jalapeno ☐☐Cream cheese jalapeno ☐☐Bean ☐☐Spicy bean

What’s on Your Wish List?

Fuller Lips Smoother Forehead Better Jawline No Double Chin Clearer Skin Smaller Tummy Slimmer Hips

Best Prices of the Year!

Consultations: 361.561.0240 Doucet Med Spa • 7121 S. Padre Island Dr. #206 Christi, TX 78412 • doucetmedspa.com [the lifestyle magazineCorpus of the coastal bend] thebendmag.com 27

Around the Bend | Giving Back

Spreading Holiday Cheer By: Geraldine Reeves Photos: Courtesy of Driscoll Children’s Hospital

Holiday cards are just one small part of what the Auxiliary to Driscoll Children’s Hospital does for the children of South Texas.

Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s 2016 Holiday Cards come in packages of 20 and are on sale for $18 at www.driscollchildrens.org and the hospital’s Carousel Gift Shop.

A

cheering crowd roars as they line the red carpet and watch the show. This annual “Celebrity Party” sounds like perhaps a posh fashion event. When, in fact, it’s so much more.

Since 1988, current and former patients of the Driscoll Children’s Hospital have been encouraged to create art for holiday cards. Ten designs are chosen, and card sponsors underwrite the cost of printing the cards.

This "Celebrity Party" is held each year for the winners. Artists are introduced and walk down the red carpet in the hospital auditorium. As celebrities would, the artists unveil their artwork and sign autographs.

Proceeds from the sale of cards help to fund the Marcia K. Wilcox Scholarship for current or former cancer patients. Since the scholarship’s inception in 1992, the Auxiliary has assisted more than 100 patients with their college expenses. Currently, there are eight ongoing active recipients, and two more were awarded in 2016.

Other products that feature patient artwork are t-shirts, silver charms donated by Casa de Oro Jewelers, and tile ornaments from Aloe Tile Works.

28 The Bend

“We love how South Texas has embraced our cards during the holiday season,” said Lizette Saenz, Director of Volunteer Services at Driscoll Children’s Hospital. “It is a win-win situation for everyone.”

The Auxiliary is a nonprofit organization affiliated with the Texas Association of Healthcare Volunteers.

Its purpose is to promote the general welfare of Driscoll Children's Hospital and to raise funds for the hospital.

The Auxiliary has contributed more than $270,000 to numerous special events and projects, such as the annual Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Reunion, Children's Miracle Network Telethon, patient and teen scholarships, purchase of toys for the toy room and Driscoll satellite clinics, donation to the Council of Hospital Volunteers for Nursing Scholarships, and special gift items to celebrate "A Patient's Final Day of Chemo."

The Auxiliary donated funds for the renovation of the Emergency Department, renovation of the Carousel Gift Shop, and to purchase eight automated external defibrillators for non-clinical areas in the hospital. If it involves the well-being of the children of South Texas, most likely the Auxiliary to Driscoll Children’s Hospital is involved. And the tradition of the Holiday Cards continues!

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

To volunteer, apply online at driscollchildrens.org/giving/volunteer/ volunteering or contact the Volunteer Services Department at (361) 694-5011​

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30 The Bend

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Destinations DECEMBER/JANUARY

This low stone building sitting seemingly in the middle of no man's land, was built in 1890.

This local residence was the home of Gilberto Luna, one of the first non-Indian settlers of The Big Bend.

QUICK TRIP 32 LOCAL DISCOVERY 34

What’s Inside This famous viewing spot called "The Window" in the Big Bend makes time stop. Pictographs and archeological records show that earlier inhabitants developed a nomadic hunting and gathering lifestyle so successful that it remained virtually unchanged for several thousand years.

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Destinations | Quick Trip

Just South Enough Big Bend provides big mountains, big desert, big canyons, and the biggest memories.

Big Bend National Park is in southwest Texas and includes the entire Chisos mountain range and a large swath of the Chihuahuan Desert. This is a true nature lover’s paradise.

By: Whitney Noble Photos: Courtesy Starlight Theatre Restaurant & Saloon and Renée C. Gage

Where to Stay: Take a leap back in time, and stay in the Candelilla House at the Big Bend Holiday Hotel. The Holiday Hotel is no franchise resort. It's perfect for raucous revelry or a romantic rendezvous, or both! The owners have created this amazing place while still preserving the integrity of the area.

Conveniently located in the Terlingua Ghost Town, there’s much to do in this spooky and deserted mining boondock.

bigbendholidayhotel.com

Where to Dip: Langford Hot Springs, near the Mexican border, has pictographs and the foundations of an old bathhouse. So after a day of hiking, who needs a hot tub when you could soak in a true hot spring? This historic bath is tucked away down a dirt road in the National Park, and it’s adjacent to the Rio Grande.

Since the baths were first developed in 1906, visitors and locals swear the naturally heated spring water has healing powers. nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/soakinthesprings. htm

Where to Learn: Take the rugged drive on Old Maverick Road near the Chimneys Trail of Big 32 The Bend

Bend National Park to visit Luna's Jacal, Gilberto Luna’s residence. Luna, a Mexican pioneer farmer, lived until he was 109 years old in this “jacal,” an indigenous Tejano dwelling suited to the desert environment that was built around 1890. Luna raised his family in the jacal, peacefully coexisting with otherwise hostile Comanche who used the Alamo Creek area as a war trail. Luna died there in 1947. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. This is the area of Texas that later became Big Bend National Park. treksw.com/lunas-jacal-big-bend-national-park

Where to Eat & Drink: After exploring Terlingua Ghost Town, what looks like an abandoned movie set, you’ll want to cozy up with their famous chili and fully operational saloon. This was a real mining town that went bust, and the miners simply left, leaving their homes behind and mines behind. Now, slightly revitalized with rustic Texas lodgings and the Starlight Theatre Restaurant & Saloon, they’re offering fine dining, rockin’ drinks, and live entertainment! There’s no reason not to check out this mysterious land.

thestarlighttheatre.com

Where to Hike: Lost Mine Trail is your quintessential Chisos wilderness hike through nearly 5 miles of spectacular canyon and forest scenery, and you’ll climb over 1,000 feet total! At first, the trail starts out gently and gets harder as you go. Along your hike, you’ll see many Pinyon Pine trees, views of Casa Grande Peak, one of the more famous Texas mountains, Juniper Canyon, and some of the South Rim off in the distance. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Where to Shop: The Terlingua Trading Company, set in the Ghost Town and housed in the old company store of the Chisos Mining Company, the store is the spiritual descendant of the old Trading Post. Now they sell unique and extraordinary inventory of Southwestern US and Mexican influenced gifts and collectibles, including a wondrous book and map section.

According to them, “We sell stuff inside, but what we're really famous for is sittin' on the front porch, especially at sunset. Some people talk. Some listen.

Some play the guitar and sing. Then -- little by little -- it gets dark. Admittedly that may not sound all that exciting, but folks come from all over, time and time again.” Be one of them folks.

terlinguatradingco.homestead.com

Where to View: The Window is a famous viewing spot in Big Bend.

A peek-a-boo between the mountains, where sunsets are as fiery as your campfire blaze. Take the long hike or the short one, but see it! It is worthwhile contrasting daytime and sunsets over The Window. For a really great view, take the short trail by the Ranger Station.

Where to Ride: Have $5? Perfect. That’s all you need for a round trip to Boquillas del Carmen, a tiny Mexican village overlooking the Rio Grande across from Big Bend National Park. There is an official US Port of entry where you’ll hop into a rowboat that takes you to the village. Ride a burro into town, grab an authentic taco and a cold beer, and revel back to a time of no cars or cell service.

Located in Portland’s Exclusive Northshore Community...

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Destinations | Local Discovery

The Magic in Marine You Don’t Have To Get Wet To Learn By: Sally Palmer Photos: Courtesy University of Texas Marine Science Institute

For more than 30 years, The University of Texas Marine Science Institute has been providing marine science education to students and the public, and showing visitors a whale of a time at hands-on activities, tours, movies, and so much more!

W

ho wants to gain first-hand experience with marine life that swims, crawls, and burrows in our Gulf and bays? Well, visitors to The University of Texas Marine Science Institute can do exactly that, and so much more! The Institute has been a leader and innovator in teaching visitors about the exciting world of our oceans and coasts for more than 30 years. Having just celebrated their 75th year, they are one of the oldest research teaching institutions. They have infused their public education with cutting-edge science and knowledge from their legacy of research and experience.

The Institute operates a free-of-charge Marine Science Education Center that is open all week with self-guided or docent-led tours. Special programs are also offered throughout the year. You can peek through the glass of several aquaria that showcase our coastal habitats like oyster reef, bays, rock jetty and offshore artificial reefs stocked with organisms that call them home - then take a break and browse the gift shop. The Center highlights the latest

research of the UT scientists and students so spectators have a chance to be exposed to new discoveries that range from oil spill effects, to sea grass, to how fish research is leading scientists to develop better cancer therapies.

A new Estuary Explorium exhibit was recently added to the Center, providing a unique opportunity to learn about the importance of our local estuaries.

Estuaries are where rivers meet the sea, and they are some of the most valuable and dynamic areas in the Coastal Bend. Follow Zoe (a characterized baby crab) around the Estuary Explorium, and explore the interactive exhibits that you can touch, and even play with, to learn. Children and the young-at-heart can catch a fish or pretend to be a sea turtle.

The Center also offers several outdoor trails that lead visitors on strolls through wetlands, sand dunes, and gardens. Did you ever want to visit and learn about a wetland without getting your feet wet? This Americans with Disabilites Act (ADA) compliant Wetlands Education Center will allow

you to do just that, as you stroll along boardwalks through 3.6 acres of salt marsh and sand dunes. Informational signage guides you along and explains the importance of each site within the trail. Free guided tours of the wetlands are offered all year on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10 am.

A brand new water-wise garden trail full of native plants designed to attract butterflies and birds just opened. Coming spring of 2017, the Institute will be adding a dune trail to give visitors an opportunity to walk amongst the dunes, view the Port Aransas WWII gunnery placements, and maybe catch sight of a Red-tailed Hawk, jackrabbit, or other dune animal.

Life in the Coastal Bend is surrounded by beaches and bays, and The University of Texas Marine Science Institute is here to share an understanding of our coastal environment and the precious watery world at the shore we call home.

Fun Facts

Ways to Support the Institute

• Programs and activities are offered throughout the year.

• Get Involved! The Institute has a large volunteer program. You can feed injured sea turtles or help others learn about our coastal environment.

• The University of Texas Marine Science Institute was established in 1941 as a research laboratory and it now serves upper class and graduate student education.

• Donate to the Institute at https://utmsi.utexas.edu/giving-to-utmsi/giving-priorities

• Located in Port Aransas, the Marine Science Education Center is open weekdays from 8 am to 5 pm and on the weekends from 10 am to 3 pm on Saturday and 11 am to 3 pm on Sunday (855 East Cotter Avenue, Port Aransas, Texas 78373).

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• Visit Us! Our mission is to learn about the marine environment and tell you about it.

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Waterfront Specialists of Texas 361-729-6500 | Cell: 361-774-9424 | www.RockportProperties.com | Mark@RockportProperties.com 14 La Buena Vida | La Buena Vida, Rockport Texas Dramatic waterfront Estate home on 2 lots in gated community.

Stately foyer with domed ceiling. Formal dining, 2 story great room with fireplace, walk-in wet bar. Chef’s kitchen-Miele ovens, walk-in pantry, granite, island and breakfast bar. Huge master Suite down with exercise room. Mother in-law suite with kitchenette and sitting room plus additional guest bedroom. 4 bedrooms and game room with wet bar up plus terrace. Covered outdoor kitchen, in-ground pool, boat dock and lift, two double garages. Impact windows and doors, surround sound.

6990 $2,250,000 | #125198 1 Blue Heron | Key Allegro, Rockport, Texas Premier Key Allegro home with panoramic views of Aransas Bay on wrap-a-round deck. Truly an entertainer’s dream amidst an outdoor covered cabana bar and kitchen. Heated pool, hot tub, 7 bedroom /6.5 bath, master suite with balcony access. Open floor plan features island kitchen with granite countertops and spacious living area. A few other features include numerous wet bars, game room, and elevator. Separate guesthouse has access to the covered boathouse, which encompasses 30’ foot boat slips. Total square footage does not include the covered outdoor pavilion and living space! $2,235,000 | #126825 2503 Turkey Neck Circle | Harbor Oaks, Rockport Texas Exquisite waterfront Haven with dramatic flair. Architectural details include motor court, commanding entry door, Pyramid Hip Roofs in/out, stone columns, interior fire pit w/copper flue, copper vent hood, walls of windows and interior courtyards.

Outdoor entertaining at its finest w/10,000 sf Clear Heart Cedar deck, heated pool, dining pavilion, multiple living spaces, landscape lighting, boat dock and boat lift. Chef’s kitchen with granite, oversized island and stainless appliances. Secluded master wing with 2 bedrooms, 2 luxurious baths, fireplace, walkins. 3 guest suites each with private entrance. $1,995,000 | #125967 Aransas Princess Penthouse | Port Aransas, Texas Rooftop Paradise! Port A's sunrises like you've never seen from your ocean view master suite with 1,600 square foot rooftop patio.

Panoramic views second to none. Designer features included in sale of this magnificent home from furniture, top of the line appliances, accessories which all convey along with all artwork on the walls.

Kitchen features convection oven, granite, trash compactor, Franke stainless sink, ice maker and wine refrigerator. Electric storm shutters. Amenities include boardwalk to beach, 2 pools, and tennis courts. First class on the beach can be yours! Call Danny Clark at 210-378-7787 $1,000,000 | #126834

Members of Rockport, Corpus Christi, and Victoria MLS | ‘As seen in duPont Registry’ - www.dupontregistry.com/homes [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Sweetest The

Season

Meals bring family and friends together during the holidays. Everyone gathers to mingle over drinks and appetizers. When the main course is ready, a sense of calm and reflection settles while sipping wine around the delicately laid china table setting. But it’s the third course that has the children’s eyes light up with bewilderment, where the adults have memories of themselves as children watching their parents whip, drizzle, frost, and, of course, taste test. Memories are made covered in flour, licking the spatula over the sink. There’s something magnetic about the dessert table. The kids hide underneath it, and grandpa secretly grabs a brownie before dinner.

Whether you’re looking for a cake, pie, cookie, cannoli, or specialty treat, your complete guide to sweets is here – and you can find them all here in the Coastal Bend.

By: Whitney Noble Photos: Rachel Durrent

Why is it Red?

When food was sparse and being rationed during World War II, bakers used boiled beet juices to bring a red color to otherwise simple cakes.

Today, beets are found in some red velvet cake recipes as they also serve to retain moisture, but mainly just a lot of red food coloring is now used.

Red Velvet Cake A cake light in cocoa flavor, the red is just a pop of color to this light and delicious cake, frosted with cream cheese frosting that is rich, tangy, and oh so yummy!

Taylor Center Deli 3636 S. Alameda St. 361-814-8916

Why the name?

Aside from the color red, the “velvet� comes from the smooth texture that the combination of baking soda and either vinegar or buttermilk gives the cake itself.

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PIES & CAKES Bacon Cheesecake Sweet and savory - talk about a match made in heaven. This classic cheesecake is taken to the next level with salted caramel and bacon to accompany the smooth cake.

The Post at Lamar Park 411 Doddridge St. #102 361-452-0907

Meringue Chocolate Meringue Pie No light-handed pie here!

Thick layers of chocolate and meringue make this your go-to craveable treat. The heavy chocolate pairs well with the lightness of the fluffy meringue. One slice is all you need!

Sugarbakers 2766 Santa Fe St. 361-884-9541

– your 2 ingredient dessert!

Whip egg whites and sugar together, until the texture is thick and puffy and forms peaks when you lift up your handmixer blades. For a bit more pizzazz, add vanilla, fruit zest, or almond extract.

Turtle Cheesecake This creamy turtle cheesecake is gracefully outfitted with caramel, chocolate and pecans. Your guests will go nuts! Be sure to save yourself a piece of this toasty confection, because this is going to go fast.

Hamlin Pharmacy & Fountain 3801 S. Staples St. 361-853-7303

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Sprinkle Cheesecake Who would think that an indulgent cheesecake would be underneath this festive and colorful sprinkle party?

This cheesecake is a hit with the young, the old, and everyone in between.

Home Sweet Home Bakery 2727 Airline Rd. 361-425-8257

Carrot Cake

Cure your sweet tooth and eat your veggies, all at once! With shreds of carrots and moist cake, you're guilt-free with this sweet treat!

Sugarbakers 2766 Santa Fe St. 361-884-9541

Edible glitter Strawberry Cupcake Dress to impress, your cupcake that is! You can't go wrong when glitter is involved. Fresh strawberry and chocolate drizzle top the strawberry flavored cupcake.

has been sold for years now and is made from starch-based food. It can transform any ordinary sweet and add dimension and sparkle to your favorite pastries, ice cream, frostings, and fruit. Edible glitter can be expensive, so if you’re planning on only using a little, research how to make your own!

The most expensive ingredient is gum Arabic, a natural tree resin that keeps for a very long time.

Fillingood Bakery 3819 S. Alameda St. 361-225-4663

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Banana Custard Layers of banana custard and nutty crunchy goodness medley are topped with torched meringue for that hit of fun texture and smokey flavor.

Shoreline Sandwich Company 500 N. Shoreline Blvd.

361-651-1345

Strawberry Danish Natural and bright, this fruity danish hits all the right notes. Fresh strawberries are placed atop the freshly baked and perfectly flaky pastry.

Fillingood Bakery 3819 S. Alameda St. 361-225-4663

S'mores Gelato Who needs’more than this generous portion of S’more gelato? A sinful treat, topped with marshmallows that will harden and are even more delicious, you get the flavors of your favorite campfire treat with generally 2/3 less fat than your average ice cream!

Coffee Waves 5738 S. Alameda St. 361-986-0481

Mexican Sweet Bread Sweet Bread is king! Try it in many varieties - the sugar topped bread with custard pouring out is called Pollitos (birdies). There are many varities, and they are not only sweet but filling and full of authenticity and heritage!

La Michoacana Bakery 3829 Crosstown Expwy, 361-851-9734 6337 S. Padre Island Dr., 361-980-0950 5250 Everhard Rd., 361-452-0933

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TINY TREATS Classic Cannoli This classic tubular pastry is a shell stuffed with the most sweetest filling of whipped ricotta. The ends, dipped in chocolate along with chocolate chips and powered sugar top this one off!

Sugarbakers 2766 Santa Fe St. 361-884-9541

Gingerbread Gelato Made with whole milk, not cream, this gelato is flash frozen after being pasturized so it's more dense with less air, which gives it that extra creamy and smooth texture. Gingersnap is cooked in, complete with tiny chunks!

Coffee Waves 5738 S. Alameda St. 361-986-0481

Cinnamon Rolls Big fluffy ooey and gooey - these rolls are dripping in frosting goodness. The cinnamon kick pairs well with coffee in the morning or as the perfect after-dinner treat.

Fed by Bread 361-239-8025

Sweet Banana Egg Roll Crispy rolls filled with sweet bananas and topped with caramel drizzle and powdered sugar compliment the warm and soft banana.

Shoreline Sandwich Company 500 N. Shoreline Blvd.

361-651-1345

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Sugar Cookies You'll surely eat these with your eyes first!

Absolute works of art, these sugar cookies are as fun and beautiful as they are tasty.

Facebook: Mo’s Cookies

The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Made with Kerrygold butter and all organic ingredients, this classic chocolate chip cookie is anything but average.

Do not let the thickness deceive you, this cookie will literally melt in your mouth. For those who'll admit to indulging in Chips Ahoy, this cookie will make you switch teams.

Etsy: LovinInTheOven

Oatmeal Cream Pie Welcome to your new wintertime cookie sandwich! The most creamy and decadent cream pie filling fits perfectly between two chewy and hearty oatmeal cookies. These sell out faster than the Tickle Me Elmo toy, Christmas 1996.

Shoreline Sandwich Company 500 N. Shoreline Blvd.

361-651-1345

Kerrygold butter

is a pure Irish butter made with natural, grass-fed, hormone-free cows' milk on Ireland’s dairy farms. These well-fed and pampered cows produce the sweetest, richest milk in the world, which makes their milk Irish butter taste silky and creamy and glow a healthy, golden yellow.

COOKIES & BARS Chocolate Pecan Brownie You'll go nuts for this brownie! Always a crowd pleaser, the fudgy, chewiness of this rectangular treat is so rich and dense with intensity. Chocolate lovers have found their paradise.

Sugarbakers 2766 Santa Fe St. 361-884-9541

Pumpkin Bar If buttermilk and pumpkin had a baby, it would be this bar. Light pumpkin filling surrounded by buttery crust is just the unexpected holiday treat you've been waiting for!

Taylor Center Deli 3636 S. Alameda St. 361-814-8916

Christmas Macarons Crunchy yet soft little desert cookies are as colorful as they are fanciful.

Lots of different flavors, serve these classy tufts at your next event, and you're sure to impress!

Hamlin Pharmacy & Fountain 3801 S. Staples St. 361-853-7303

Ranger Cookie This is one giant cookie, and what makes it even more special, is the recipe runs in the family! It's made with wholehearted love and provides energy and spirit!

Crofutt’s Sandwich Shop and Bakery, 1610 FM 136 Rd, Bayside 361-529-6663

History of the Macaron cookie: It was introduced by the chef of Catherine de Medicis in 1533 in Italy, at the time of her marriage to the Duc d'Orleans who became king of France in 1547 as Henry II. "Macaron" has the same word origin as "macaroni,� meaning "fine dough." Delicate and airy, the shells are light and crunchy, then turn chewy on the inside. Filling goes between each shell, and the flavors are endless!

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45 The Bend

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in THE COASTAL BEND 7 makers share the passion and process behind what they produce.

The ability to create something from almost nothing is an art form in itself. If there is one trait shared by each maker, one trait that brings them all together, it is the pure joy of crafting something by hand. They hold the act of making itself as dear as holding the finished product. Getting to share their passion and products with the community they love is simply an added bonus.

By: Jordan Regas Photos: Gabriel Mancha

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Clara Ogden

D A

Goldie Design Co.

flood of natural light fills Clara Ogden’s home studio through the large window adjacent to her desk. Hanging behind her is a giant white board covered in magazine tear outs, recent doodles, and random images she draws inspiration from. She loves the natural light and can’t work in closed-in spaces. Ogden spends her days drawing out maps and calligraphy before scanning her work into the computer. It’s not the career path she originally envisioned as a student at Texas A&M majoring in Architecture.

learn new things. She decided to try out calligraphy in a small classroom environment. Immediately, she knew she wanted to teach it.

“A lot of people don’t think they are creative, but after taking the class, I thought to myself, I could teach anyone to do this,” says Ogden.

Odgen and her husband have been in Corpus Christi for over a year now. She likes the small town vibe of Corpus Christi compared to Dallas, and she is starting to feel like a local.

Ogden loved drawing as a child. Originally from Dallas, her grandmother took her on tours of the Dallas Art Museum and always bought her art supplies. In college, she interned at an architecture firm, but it was not the experience she imagined.

“I was designing parking lots or drawing parking spaces or designing public bathrooms. So I figured out about halfway through the internship that I didn’t want to do it,” says Ogden. With a husband in the Marines, she wanted the ability to work anywhere but still get involved with the community.

So she started Goldie Design Co., which began as a custom invitation business. In the beginning, she was all over the place with her new business. One day, Ogden found herself searching for classes in Dallas, where she lived at the time, to meet new people and

“When I moved to Corpus Christi, there was no one teaching classes like this. In Dallas, it was hard to fill up my classes, because there were so many classes. It’s inspired me to go to places that might not have these opportunities,” says Ogden.

She loves connecting with people and the sense of community the classes create. Along with classes and custom invitations, Ogden sells an assortment of prints and stationeries on her website. Her goal is to offer illustrated maps of every city she moves to. It’s a new concept she is hoping will take off. She tries to include things that she loves on the map. It’s a creative way to remember where she has lived and all the good memories from that city.

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“People really like the personalization. There is something to be said about having a real person on the other end.”

– Clara Ogden

For More Information clara@goldiedesignco.com @GoldieDesignCo goldiedesignco.com

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“I just think it’s neat that you can essentially make a piece of art with rocks and water.” – Alex Chapa

Alex Chapa

Moonstone’d Pottery

T

he spinning wheel rapidly turns the formless ball of clay in Alex Chapa’s hands. Using her thumbs and index fingers like tools of her trade, she squeezes, lifts, and shapes the simple mixture of water and stone into a work

of art.

“Corpus needs more art and artists, especially in the pottery field. Pottery has been around since 1,500 B.C.,” says Chapa.

Growing up in South Texas, Chapa comes from a family of artists. After focusing on theater for most of her life, she realized acting wasn't her only passion. After a two-year break from school, she signed up for a ceramics class at Del Mar College.

While taking the class, she spent hours on end in the studio. She continued educating herself on YouTube and kept practicing, even when her pieces didn’t turn out.

“I loved everything about pottery. The process behind the art itself, the ability to create beautiful pieces of art with just your hands and a natural rock, and of course being able to share your personal love for art with the community,” says Chapa.

“It’s out of my comfort zone to be social, and a way I express myself is through my art. A lot of people keep their feelings locked up inside, and art is a great way to express your feelings,” says Chapa.

She enjoys the artistry behind her craft and gains inspiration from other artistic outlets, such as photography and painting.

“There is definitely a process to it, and it takes a lot of time. That is why I tell people to give me about three or four weeks notice on projects. It takes about a month to make one piece,” she says.

Chapa’s goal is to educate people in Corpus Christi about pottery and the art form behind it. Her family owns a community theater in town where she plans to offer pottery workshops in the future.

After just receiving a kiln from a mentor at the Art Center, Chapa is eager to equip and train the next generation of potters in Corpus Christi. She also has her own wheel and hopes to open up her own studio. She currently has a website in the works, but customers can find her on social media and purchase products on Etsy, such as mugs, vases and ashtrays.

Chapa recently opened her business, Moonstone’d Pottery, in May. Growing up, her family always referred to her as the moon and her brother as the sun. Chapa says her family always called her their “Little Luna,” because she was always the darker, more emotional one.

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For More Information (361) 774-9268 @moonstonedpottery etsy.com/shop/MoonstonedPottery

Market. It helped him launch the business. He was able to test his coffees and see if there was a market for specialty coffee in Corpus Christi. The feedback was encouraging from his customers. It gave him the motivation to launch his wholesale business.

It's taken two years to do the planning and obtain the licensing to build the roastery, but the dedication and hard work has finally paid off. Weber still works part-time in the Navy as a reservist but just opened the doors to Roastorium in September.

He will need to get a restaurant license if he wants to do public cuppings or tastings on location, but he doesn’t want to turn into a shop – coffee education is his goal.

Covered in coffee fruit and flowers, the bright new bags represent the beauty and craft behind everything the Roastorium brand stands for. The roastery is open on Wednesdays from 10 am to 4 pm, but coffee is for sale at several retailers around town. Wake up and smell the coffee.

“I realized I could make a cup of coffee that wasn't painful to drink.” – Spencer Weber

Spencer Weber

S

Roastorium

pencer Weber didn’t start drinking coffee until he followed his older brother to the US Naval Academy. He found himself falling asleep in class, but he despised the ashy, bitter taste of super market coffee. Instead of switching to soda or a caffeine alternative, his inquisitive personality launched a mission to discover what gives coffee that taste he couldn’t get past. Was there anything he could do to fix it?

“I tried different brands of coffee and bought a new coffee pot,” said Weber. “Then I went out and bought a coffee grinder. That was my ‘ah-ha’ moment, when the light bulb came on. Almost any coffee ground fresh is better than coffee that's been sold already ground. I realized I could make a cup of coffee that wasn't painful to drink.”

He purchased coffee from a local roaster in Annapolis, Maryland, until the Navy brought him down to Pensacola, Florida.

When he couldn’t find any local roasters in town, Weber realized how easy it was to roast your own coffee at home. Using a heat gun, a stainless steal bowl and a spoon, he roasted his first batch.

Like a scientist in his lab, he experimented for about eight years with coffees from regions all over the world. Some batches turned out great, while others fell flat. With each new batch came a new adventure.

“I knew I wanted to do something with coffee in my life, but I wasn’t sure if it was a coffee shop or a coffee roaster. After four or five years, about the time we moved to Corpus, I knew it was a roastery. We had no specialty coffee roasters in Corpus, and I really love how much control I have over the coffee.

I get more control over bringing out different flavors.”

Late 2012, Weber started going to the Saturday Farmers’

For More Information roastorium.com @roastorium (361) 433-5068

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“I have never stopped creating no matter where I live. If I am not creating, I am lost.”

– Jo Anne Howell

Jo Anne Howell

W

Oh Goodie Designs + Events

hen Jo Anne Howell is not coordinating events or weddings, she is busy creating new products on the same old dining room table she painted and colored on as a child. With years of creativity in its bones, she is not ready to give up her original workspace quite yet.

Howell’s company, Oh Goodie Designs + Events, is known for its boutique style custom party products and celebrations. It all started with putting on large parties for her children. This was long before Pinterest existed, and there were few resources available at the time. While working as an Exhibit and Education Coordinator for a children's museum, she would constantly have to create something out of nothing.

“I would dream up my own details and make them come to life. I have always been very creative and hands on,” says Howell.

In the beginning, she was very active in the blogging community. Before social media took off, blogging was the best way to get your name and products out there. One by one, many popular bloggers started posting pictures of her products and asking for samples to use at their parties.

For More Information (214) 802-9923 @ohgoodiedesigns ohgoodiedesigns.com

50 The Bend

“I would get orders from all over the world, and today am still contacted for products that I don’t even make anymore. But they saw it on a blog and have to have it. I usually never say no,” says Howell.

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Her work has been featured on countless blogs, websites and magazines. Howell is also a regular contributor to The Bend Magazine, where her work is showcased monthly. However, her coolest achievement was getting her products picked up by international retailers Anthropologie, BHLDN and Free People. Her metallic confetti wands were a part of a gift bag at the Oscars in 2014.

“It usually starts with a need. I will need a certain detail for a party, so I’ll dream it up. I lose a lot of hours of sleep thinking about how I can make this into that. I always say ‘it came to me in a dream,’ because it probably, really did,” says Howell.

Howell's most popular products are her custom-designed cups and napkins. Branding parties and events is what Howell and her designer do best.

“I'd be nothing without my amazing graphic artist, Harper Gray,” says Howell. Her designs are so on trend and usually beyond trend that we receive a lot of orders for event branding and matching cups.

I have an Etsy shop online, but we have really narrowed it down this past year due to my event business being so busy.” Customers can now purchase products at the newly opened Studio 1718 on Alameda inside Goosefeathers.

Howell’s proudest moment has to be moving to the Coastal Bend and getting to make great products for all her clients and their events. She feels right at home here.

“We make a great team, and we work exceptionally well together.”

- Elena Flores

shirt is the most popular by far.

“A Chingona is a woman that beats to her own drum. A woman that defies what society tells her to do. It means standing out and not conforming to expectations. I want for women to feel empowered.

That being a Latina does not mean being of lesser value in any aspect of life,” says Elena.

Gerald & Elena Flores Power Couple

bring people together, no matter your differences.”

Taco Gear & Sew Bonita

G

erald and Elena Flores’ home doubles as a design studio for not one, but two of Corpus Christi’s fastest growing clothing and accessory brands.

Each work full time outside the house, but once the clock hits five, Elena is busy inside Sew Bonita HQ, a renovated spare bedroom, while Gerald is designing on his Mac to the smooth rhythms of jazz. This power couple feeds off each others creativity; however, it’s a shared love for their culture that built their brands.

“My Mexican culture is everything to me. It defines me, my morals, my value, my life and my world,” says Elena. “Growing up on the border of Eagle Pass, Texas has shaped me to the woman I have become. I look back at my life there, and I know that my creativity and my vision for Sew Bonita is a result of it.”

Gerald’s love for tacos comes from everything great about his upbringing and culture as well. He ate tacos on many occasions growing up. While visiting family members, celebrating special occasions, or just enjoying good food with friends, tacos were always a part of his life.

“My brand is definitely bigger than tacos. Everything we design may be taco inspired, but what we're really representing is the strong, passionate culture behind tacos,” says Gerald. “Also, it doesn’t matter your skin color. Tacos

As a Graphic Designer, Gerald finds inspiration from anything and everything.

When he couldn’t find any t-shirts or hats about tacos he liked, he simply decided to design his own, and Taco Gear was born.

Elena’s late mother always wanted her to sew. As a creative person, she wanted to learn something new. She received her Singer sewing machine as a gift from Gerald and was hooked from the start.

She likes to buy unique fabrics that correlate with Mexican culture; vibrant, chic patterns that are colorful and loud. When it comes to shirts, she discusses her ideas with Gerald and gives him complete freedom from there. The majority of the time, it's a home run.

“Gerald gets my vision and understands how much the culture means to me,” says Elena.

Sew Bonita’s most popular seller is the Lotería bag, which sells out every time.

Playing Lotería (card game) brings back a lot of special memories from her childhood. From the t-shirt line, the Chingona

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

As Sew Bonita continues to take off, Taco Gear is in full stride this year, with a string of publicity that launched the brand across the state and country.

“It all started with The Tacos of Texas book. The authors found me on Instagram,” says Gerald. “It seems that was the one thing that started it all. That led to custom collaborations with taco shops in Los Angeles, New York, Colorado, Austin and Dallas. The publicity continued with a spread in the Caller Times, which lead to The Houston Chronicle and FLAMA, a popular online network from Univision.”

Taco Gear’s original “TACOS” snapback and “Give Me Tacos or Give Me Death” t-shirt are continuous top sellers, but you never know what Gerald might come up with next while enjoying a taco from Southside Barbacoa, his favorite place in town.

For More Information tacogear.com @tacocreative sewbonita.com @sewbonitaCC

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“If I am going to use something specific, I’m going to make it myself. That’s just how I’m wired.”

- LaDonna Calhoun

LaDonna Calhoun

Archer Soapworks & Apothecary

T

he smell of maple and vanilla permeate the intimate kitchen as LaDonna Calhoun pours a concoction of oils into a glass bowl. The room could easily be mistaken for a chemistry lab, but Calhoun, owner of Archer Soapworks & Apothecary, would not have it any other way. She has always had a maker mentality, even crafting objects out of clay as a child.

When she noticed her daughter was having skin issues, she decided to take matters into her own hands, and kitchen.

It started off very small. Making a batch of soap in a milk carton and passing it out to her friends who loved it. As much as she has always been a creator, she has been an entrepreneur as well. In 2015, during a lesson in archery, she landed a large bruise down her forearm.

“I had heard about the benefits of arnica for similar injuries, and I happened to have come by a stash. That evening, I made a beeswax and arnica salve, and a fledgling company was born,” says Calhoun.

Calhoun always knew she would end up working in medicine. She went to school to become a surgical assistant and still works in the world of traditional medicine by day. This allows her to have a

52 The Bend

balanced perspective on herbal medicine and oils.

“I don’t like alternative health or alternative medicine, because that makes you choose one or the other. You shouldn’t have to choose sides. It is complementary medicine,” says Calhoun.

Her soap bars and the bath bombs are the most popular sellers. She sells her products online and in local shops like Eleanor’s Coffee Bar + Market and plans to distribute in more shops around the Coastal Bend in the near future.

Her biggest challenge has been perfecting the oil mixture. She uses six different oils in her soaps.

It’s a delicate balance between hard and soft oils. If the balance is off, it will be too hard to use or so soft that it will wither away.

She is constantly educating herself, but also invests a lot of time in educating her customers as well. “People are really surprised at how their skin feels. Most customers say they are never going back,” says Calhoun.

“It’s a balancing act. You are constantly watching the mathematics with your oils and your lye. That’s what starts the saponification process,” says Calhoun. “I’ll never forget ruining the freezer when I spilled lye into the ice maker. That was a mess to clean up.”

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For More Information (832) 474-0945 @ArcherSoapworksApothecary archersoapworks.com

Dorothy Hood (1918-2000), Copper Signal, 1977, oil on canvas, 109 1⁄2" x 81" Collection of the Art Museum of South Texas

THE COLOR OF BEING/EL COLOR DEL SER: DOROTHY HOOD (1918-2000) The first major retrospective of the early Texas abstract artist and renowned 20th century Modernist, featuring 160 works. This vibrant exhibition springs to life through interactive interpretives, providing a rich, immersive experience.

Experience It In Corpus Christi! September 30, 2016 – January 8, 2017 HaveYouSeenDorothy.org

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This project is funded by grants from the City of Corpus Christi through the Arts & Cultural Commission.

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BE THE HIT OF THE

Holiday Party!

54 The Bend

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Health DECEMBER / JANUARY

BE WELL 56 FITNESS 58

What’s Inside A cleft lip is a birth defect that occurs when a baby's lip doesn't form properly during pregnancy. Plastic surgery is often used to correct this abnormality and can restore the mouth to a more normal appearance.

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55

Health | Be Well

Turning that Frown By: Sharla Wilkins Photos: Rachel Durrent

Danielle Morales knows the power of positive thinking, despite growing up with physical malformations.

A winning smile belays a childhood of self-consciousness caused by a cleft lip and irregular nose.

D

anielle Morales used to hate having her picture taken.

Of the obligatory school photos, the 26 year old says, “I would smile really big so no one really noticed my lip, and then I would just hope they got a good angle for my nose.”

Born with a cleft lip, deviated septum, and a large dorsal bump on her nose, Morales has undergone five surgeries in her life to correct her abnormalities. She was 10 days old for her first surgery, performed on her cleft lip to allow her to latch onto a bottle. Additional lip surgeries followed at ages four, 15 and 16. Rhinoplasty to correct her septum and smooth her dorsal bump was completed in October of 2015.

Morales’ different appearance didn’t start to affect her until upper elementary school. “People would notice more of your physical features,” she explains of that time in her young life. Her previous surgeries to correct her cleft lip left a permanently puffy area on her upper lip. She would try and explain away the puffiness by saying she fell.

Middle school brought even greater self-consciousness. “It was a really awkward time period for me,” she says. Morales had a large bump on her nose, and, combined with the bump left from her previous lip surgeries, she had a lower sense of self-worth.

In sixth grade, Morales attempted to expand her social experiences by attending a school dance. “I was too shy, I wasn’t comfortable,” she explains of seeing her friends mingle and speak to boys.

Morales at 18 months old.

Before Morales began her sophomore year, she had her last lip surgery.

Still with stitches the week before school, she did not want to start her sophomore year of high school sporting black stitches. She got tweezers and alcohol, and removed her stitches herself before school started. “Sophomore year was actually my first yearbook picture that I really liked,” Morales says fondly.

“I feel the most confident I’ve ever felt in my entire life,” Morales explains of how the surgeries have changed her.

Morales says those with physical deformities should not be so hard on themselves. “Everybody’s different, and you can’t look like the girls in the magazines or the girls on TV. Just try your best to love yourself and be happy with yourself and good things will follow,” she says.

56 The Bend

Newborn at 2 weeks old, the night before first cleft lip surgery.

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57

Health | Fitness

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New Year’s Success is in the Process By: Adam Farrell

I

nstead of focusing on the end result, can we set smaller goals that, if done over and over again, will invariably lead us closer to our end goal without getting overwhelmed? Many of us get intimidated after we set goals that have no plan. A goal without a plan or process is just a wish. Process goals give us a plan we can implement every day.

Below are a few process goals that are related to health and fitness. You can make process goals for anything. You probably already use processes in your work when planning out projects and other objectives, so why not do the same thing with your life?

• Eat breakfast every morning.

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• Go to bed by 10pm to get 6-8 hours of sleep.

• Add at least one dark colorful vegetable at EVERY meal.

• Eat only whole foods for snacks.

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• Wake up by 6am to get more done each day.

This New Year, instead of making the same lofty, distant, and sometimes unrealistic goals that we seem to set every year that are usually forgotten

by February, why not focus on the process that will help you reach those far-off goals.

These processes may seem too simple to lead to any significant results over time. Most of these are not even social media worthy, but if we consistently follow our process goals they will lead us closer to our big goals that can be social media worthy!

Simple Isn’t Easy If you are not a breakfast eater, don’t like grocery shopping, struggle going to bed at a decent hour, then some of the “simple” suggestions listed above may be a struggle at first.

Find one or two in that “simple process” that you can be successful with.

Do your best when getting started. Shoot for an 80% success rate. Rarely are we 100%, 100% of the time. If you miss the mark 20% of the time it is okay. Don’t throw your success in the trash because you weren’t perfect. Start again the next day and give it your best effort. 80% is better than 0% any day! You have to start somewhere.

• Go for a walk outside for 10-15 minutes.

Start this year with smaller process goals, and see if they don’t become habits over the course of the year.

• Strength train at least two times per week (100 workouts in a year).

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• Grocery shop once per week with a grocery list.

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• Take 1-2 hours on the weekend to plan and prepare your meals.

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• Write for 5 minutes in a journal every day.

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Special Promotion

CHRISTUS Spohn NICU

Recognized for Excellence in Patient Experience

CHRISTUS Spohn Associates, Dr. Miguel DeLeon-Salinas and former NICU patients enjoy a fun day together during the 2016 NICU Reunion

Corpus Christi, Texas – The CHRISTUS Spohn Neonatal Intensive Care Unit has received its highest honor from the families of its tiniest patients. CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-South has been given the 2016 Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award after the Level III NICU received 95 percent or higher patient satisfaction scores the past year.

CHRISTUS Spohn South President Mark Casanova says it’s thanks to the teamwork and coordination of South nurses and physicians, who work each day to provide high-quality care.

“We are very proud of every nurse and staff member that has the privilege of caring for our smallest, most precious patients and encouraging their families,” Casanova said. The 2016 Press Ganey Guardian of Excellence Award is a nationally-recognized symbol of achievement in health care. Presented annually, the award honors clients who consistently sustained performance in the top 5% of all Press Ganey clients for each reporting period during the course of one year.

CHRISTUS Spohn presented the award to NICU Associates during a special recognition event to say thank you for their commitment to compassionate care.

“I am so honored and humbled at the demonstration of our NICU team living our mission to extend the healing ministry of Jesus Christ every day.” said South’s Chief Nursing Officer, Lisa Cox. CHRISTUS Spohn’s Level III NICU features board-certified neonatologists and neonatal nurse practitioners available 24/7 to manage any complications with premature or critically-ill newborns. The hospital also includes the NICU Transport Team – a highly-skilled provider, nursing, and respiratory medical team to manage transports for critically ill infants from any regional facility.

Recently, NICU Associates were reunited with their patients and families during the annual NICU Reunion at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi -South. The fairytale-themed event saw dozens of children enjoy games, prizes and fellowship with the nurses who once cared for them. It’s a celebration of life and special reminder of the miracles that take place each day in the CHRISTUS Spohn NICU. “We feel blessed to care for our patients and are honored that in return, they have ranked us among the best facilities in the country,” Casanova added.

Pictured, left to right: NICU Associates Lauren Bryant, RN; Miren Plaza RN; Isabell Chavarria, CNA; Rosario Mackey ,RN; and Jesse Battleson, RN.

CHRISTUS Spohn South Chief Nursing Officer Lisa Cox (left) and Labor and Delivery Director Lenora Sevcik pose for a photo in Florida where they accepted the Guardian of Excellence Award on behalf of the hospital.

For more information, please visit: www.christusspohn.org/level-iii-neonatal-intensive-care-unit [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend] thebendmag.com

59

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60 The Bend

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Home & Garden DECEMBER/JANUARY

GARDENING 64 SPACES 66

What’s Inside The fireplace emerged as a necessity in early America, made of brick, stone or metal, to heat up a room. Now, they serve mainly for ambiance, and, of course, as a route for Santa.

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61

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Special Promotion

BART BRASELTON Bart Braselton is the Executive Vice President of Braselton Homes, the Coastal Bend’s oldest and largest Homebuilder and Neighborhood Developer. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Bart is the third generation of The Braselton family building in the Bay Area. Returning to Corpus Christi after earning a BBA in Finance, as well as a second degree in Real Estate, from the University of Texas, at Austin, Braselton began working in the family business as a construction superintendent.

As the Braselton family prepares to gather together for the holidays, and close out 2016 with gratitude for our many blessings, we like to take time to celebrate the opportunities we’ve had this year to make an impact in our hometown.

First and foremost, we cannot thank the people of the Corpus Christi Bay Area enough for giving us the chance to help so many families move into the home of their dreams; again, in 2016, we will be able to see over 200 families moving into their own Braselton Home. This gives us the chance to build neighborhoods that we can all be proud of; places we all love to come home to that are safe, attractive, affordable, and make our community stronger – one home at a time.

There is no more special a moment at Braselton than when a family moves into their new home. It is a time of celebration, and is so inspiring to be a part of the excitement and pride that comes with homeownership. To be able to help, so many thousands of families in Corpus Christi for decades is a great joy. Thank you for trusting us to build your city, your home, and you family’s future.

And there’s more to celebrate! We believe in giving back… and have been able to, with your support, invest in our community in many ways that we believe have made an impact. In 2016, we have been able to assist dozens of charities, giving over $350,000 to these local nonprofits that make Corpus Christi a better place. We like to focus our efforts on charities that help families, and children, such as The Salvation Army, New Life Refuge, Fish for Life and the Food Bank, as well as organizations focusing on secular and spiritual education, which include the Corpus Christi Education Foundation, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the ECF Community Center.

And, again, thanks to your support, we can take stock at the end of the year of how our family business is putting Corpus Christi on the map, by topping local and national building industry charts for sales and customer satisfaction, as well as for our Green Building initiatives.

In 2016 alone, we received recognition from several third party industry leaders, detailing our impact on the national housing scene, which included yet another listing as a Housing Giant, by Professional Builder Magazine, as well as a spot in The Next 100, by Builder Magazine, a list detailing the largest homebuilders in the United States.

And, recently, we were recognized as one of the Fastest Growing Builders in the United States, again by Professional Builder Magazine. We have also been a winner of the coveted Home of Texas Keystone Award, recognizing quality building practices, as well as a winner of multiple Builders’ Association of Corpus Christi Builder of the Year Awards, and Builder and Developer Magazine’s Industry Leader and Innovator Award. Recognition for our Green Building practices include a clean sweep of all 4 Builders’ Association of Corpus Christi 2016 Parade of Homes Green building awards, as well as multiple Energy Star Performance Awards, and The Environments for Living Diamond Award. However, we may be most proud of the Environmental Stewardship Award we received from the local Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Foundation; we were much honored to be recognized for our efforts and its positive impact on the environment, by this distinguished organization.

Since then, Braselton Homes has won numerous local, state, and national awards, including the Energy Star Leadership in Housing Award, as well as the Environments for Living Diamond Award for Energy Efficiency. And, the company has grown into one of the Nation’s Largest Homebuilders, earning consistent rankings in the annual lists compiled by both Professional Builder, as well as Builder Magazine.

Bart, a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi Class 18, has served on numerous local community and business boards, including the Coastal Bend GreenBuilt Initiative, Bay Area Smart Growth, and the Police Foundation. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Development Corporation, the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, the Builders Association and the Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation.

Braselton and his wife, Michelle have 2 young children at home, and are active, with Braselton Homes, in community and church organizations throughout the city, including the American Heart Association, the Food Bank, and CASA of the Coastal Bend.

2016 has been a great year, and we’ve enjoyed every minute of it, working for our customers, and with our local charitable organizations. Thank you for helping us to support those who build up our community, as we as build homes, and communities.

See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton

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63

Home & Garden | Gardening

Cool Facts A good frost or freeze activates the sugars in broccoli. This self-defense mechanism of the plant gives your broccoli the best flavor.

Once you harvest the initial head of broccoli, the plant will continue to deliver dozens of small broccoli florets, so you can harvest your plant many times into spring.

When the broccoli bolts, or goes to flower, you can eat the flowers and the large green broccoli leaves! Cook the leaves like collard greens and enjoy the flowers on salads.

Introduction to America

The Most Italian of Vegetables By: Justin Butts Photos: Rachel Durrent

The Frost of Winter Gives Broccoli the Best Flavor

The D’Arrigo brothers shipped their freshly-picked broccoli on refrigerated railroad cars to markets in Boston and New York. Broccoli sales quickly soared in Italian-American enclaves along the East Coast. The D’Arrigo brothers created the broccoli brand Andy Boy, and their marketing campaign of the 1920s and 30s helped establish the popularity of broccoli across America.

The 2-1-2 Pattern

W

hen we think of Italian cuisine, eggplant and tomatoes usually come to mind. But, actually, the most Italian of all vegetables is broccoli!

Broccoli was invented in Italy. During the Roman age, the farmers of Italy selectively bred broccoli from a sea cabbage that grew wild along the Mediterranean Coast. Broccoli is the enlarged unopened flower of that ancient wild plant.

Broccoli was a staple in the kitchens of Italy a thousand years before eggplant was introduced from India or tomatoes arrived from the New World.

The French began to cultivate broccoli in 1520 and the English in the late 1700s. But broccoli did not catch on in America. Those old varieties of broccoli required ten long months to mature and were very susceptible to pests; only the most skillful gardeners could grow it. In America, broccoli remained a novelty.

64 The Bend

Then, in 1923, Stephano and Andrea D’Arrigo, immigrants from Italy, planted broccoli on their farm in San Jose, California, in growing conditions similar to the Mediterranean climate of their homeland.

Broccoli is a cool-weather vegetable. Now is the perfect time to plant it in your garden. Try the 2-1-2 pattern to grow your broccoli. Plant two broccoli transplants side-by-side seven inches off-center in a wide row.

Move fifteen inches down the row, and plant a single broccoli transplant in the center of the row, then move another fifteen inches down and plant two more broccoli transplants side-by-side.

This 2-1-2 pattern leaves space on either side of the middle plant for dill, cilantro, or parsley to repel pests and to add color and fragrance to your garden.

Broccoli matures in about eighty days. Harvest the large head that forms in the center of each plant, and then harvest the dozens of tender florets that will continue to sprout.

In the spring, sometime around March, the sprouting florets will immediately open into small yellow edible flowers. This is a sign that your broccoli is finished for the season, and you can plant your favorite summer produce in its place. Nature’s messages are magical!

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65

Home & Garden | Spaces

A Merry Mantel By: Jo Anne Howell Photos: Rachel Durrent

Styling your holiday mantel should be a fun way to carry your holiday look into the new year.

Once you take down your tree, the mantel can stay dressed for a little longer.

S

tarting with a lot of greens, this look came together with candles and the now-so-trendy fairy lights.

Start with a faux garland from a local craft store and layer it with stems of fresh greens from a local florist. This is an easy way to build up and enlarge your garland. Greenery stems like Pine and Woolly bush add a fresh and full look! You’ll love the look and smell of fresh holiday greens. That way, the look will last and the greens can be removed as needed over time.

Tall glass cylinder vases keep pillar candles of varying heights.

Any color can be used to fit your look. Here, white shows off a fresh and clean look. Add as many candles as you can fit on your ledge. The more the merrier!

A huge trend right now are the LED fairy lights. These are

66 The Bend

battery operated tiny lights on a metal wire. They can be used literally anywhere, because they do not get hot. Place a strand in terrariums and add them to the mantel. Try using two strands per vase. There are two types; the small flat battery operated vs. the ones that have larger battery packs. These lights also look enchanting on tables and in varying jars and vases. You will suddenly notice this look in major magazines and department stores. These lights can be found online or at your local craft store.

Opt for a low-set profile chair with some texture, like this tweed set. Puff up a furry pillow for contrast, and the cowhide pillow and run for varying interest. Cozy up next to the fire (or not, as seen here) with a plaid blanket. Add a book (or your smart phone) and a cup of coffee or cocoa and you are set for your own winter wonderland.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Styling: Jo Anne Howell Oh Goodie Designs + Events Greenery: The Blossom Shop Rug, candle vases and pillows: Butler Signature Events Chairs and side table, deer head: DÉCOR Furniture and Design

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Out & About DECEMBER/JANUARY

ARTS & CULTURE 70 CELEBRATION 72 DATE BOOK 74 SOCIAL HOUR 76

What’s Inside Beautiful ceramic tile stars fill the courtyard of the WaterStreet Market in Downtown Corpus Christi, Texas recognizing our most beloved South Texas musicians.

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69

Out & About | Arts & Culture

A Musician’s New Beginning Matt Hole & the Hot Rod Gang By: Jimmy Willden Photos: Gabriel Mancha

F

or over twenty years, Matt Hole has proven to be a true rock-n-roller, if not the truest in Corpus Christi. Now, armed with brand new band mates and a slew of new material, Hole is ready to reinvigorate the South Texas rockabilly scene with a fresh start.

that hasn’t slowed him down.

Hole and his Hot Rod Gang first launched onto the Corpus Christi music scene in the early 90s, with the release of their popular first album, Magazine Dream in 1994. Two more albums followed, along with success overseas.

These new guys happen to be drummer Cody Strong and bass player J.M. (Juan Manuel) Muniz - two of the most prolific musicians in Corpus Christi.

Now, after playing for fifteen years with the previous incarnation of Matt Hole & the Hot Rod Gang, those band members have decided to move on to other projects and other cities - but for Hole,

70 The Bend

“I’m going to keep on moving on,” said Hole. “And these new guys, they are a lot younger than me, so hopefully they can bring some cool ideas to the table.”

“I like the way they both play. It’s kind of a package deal with them. They play together; they play in other bands together,” continued Hole. “So, it makes sense to approach two people who already know each other's way of playing.”

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Gone are the days of multiple city tours and all-nighters - but for Hole, the direction of the current Hot Rod Gang is leading him right where he wants to be. The songs, according to Hole, are going to be the same, if not better, and they’re going to be played the same, if not better. The visual aspect of the band was something that used to be important to Hole, but not so much anymore.

These days, the music is more important.

“I want us to just be the strongest the band has been,” said Hole. “I’m not necessarily looking for any kind of growth; I don’t want to spread out further. The truth is - and I’m sure the guys already know by now - I like to keep it local.”

Full House

by DRV

Luxury Asset Hauler

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Out & About | Celebration

Love T in Full Color

his fun-loving bride with her love of color was a perfect match for this beach wedding of Dillon Mullenix Duval and Aaron Duval, June 2, 2016.

No matter the weather, this Bride had a smile all day long. A little rain in the forecast was no threat to her and her wedding planner. A few adjustments were made, and the perfect day was on the way.

From rain shower to confetti shower, not even a few rain clouds could damper this radiant wedding day.

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The picturesque setting of Cinnamon Shore was just what the Bride ordered for her relaxed, casual beach wedding.

Moving the ceremony to The Great Lawn from the beach due to a little shower, the gazebo made the perfect back drop for

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

bright colored ribbons and eclectic pops.

Halos of greens hung from wooden chairs and guest wore them from the ceremony through the reception. As the happy Bride and Groom recessed down the grass aisle, guests tossed colorful pom poms as they made their way arm in arm.

The reception was set with large teepee style tents with wooden tables and benches draped in colorful serape style blankets.

An array of vibrant florals and succulents covered the tables and the bit of drizzle brought out their tropical aroma. Various and fun containers were used to create terrariums from soda bottles. Mini clay pots were painted and filled with mini succulents for the guests' party favor.

A food truck served dinner, as guests

Create a Event!

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Tents Tables & Chairs Linens LED Lighting Staging & Dance Floors China*Glassware*Flatware Catering Equipment Custom Props Draping Lounge Furniture

Rental * Design * Décor chose from a variety of street tacos. The truck and its fare were a huge hit, and the company enjoyed the relaxed ordering atmosphere.

For all your life Celebrations!

Everyone danced through the night under the teepee of lights. Eclectic furniture was brought in to surround the area with seating. As the evening ended, the couple was showered by confetti wands in a sea of sprinkle colored confetti. It was the perfect ending to the perfect day!

Event Design and Wedding Coordinating: Jo Anne Howell, Oh Goodie Designs + Events Invite suite and graphics: Harper Gray Designs for Oh Goodie Designs + Events

Lighting and DJ Service: Dance til Dawn Entertainment Photography: Heidi Rae Photography Videography: Big Box Pro Wedding Video

Venue: Cinnamon Shore, Port Aransas

Floral: Sandra Sauceda with The Blossom Shop

Food Truck: Iron Pinanta

Make-up and Hair: Courtney Cotten Pollard with James Stanley Salon

Catering and Bar Service: La Playa, Port Aransas Cake: Sugarbakers

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Boutique Showroom!

5826 Wooldridge Rd.

www.ButlerSignatureEvents.com

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FESTIVAL

December&January Mark Your Calendar

La Posada Lighted Boat Parade Dec. 9th & 10th

A unique celebration, ringing in the beginning of the holiday season for residents and visitors alike. Boats in the parade are well lit with festive lights, and many varied themes and decorations.

The boats travel though the canals of the Laguna Madre. During the parade there will be collector boats that follow the parade route collecting toys from people along the canals. It’s a wonderful, heartwarming and festive time. Padre Island, laposada.foundation@yahoo.com, laposadacc.com

MUSIC

A Touch of Frozen Frost Dec. 10th

Maestro Haas will begin this much anticipated holiday concert with traditional holiday favorites including Sleigh Ride and selections from the Nutcracker. Then, audience members are in for a real treat when the Del Mar Master Chorus and the Corpus Christi Chorale sing the Hallelujah Chorus.

Also, expect a few surprises that will be sure to delight the senses and maybe even bring a (joyful) tear to the eye! Of course, the ever popular sing-a-long and visit from Santa will cap off a very memorable evening you will not want to miss! TAMUCC Performing Arts Center, (361) 883-6683, ccsymphony.org

COMMUNITY

Food Truck Christmas Village Dec. 17th

Bring your family out for a night, not to be missed, for a Christmas Celebration! The Food Trucks are coming to town! Gourmet food trucks will gather on location offering all of your food favorites.

Heritage Park, (361) 444-9566, facebook.com/foodtruckchristmasvillagecc

FESTIVAL

Harbor Lights Festival Dec. 3rd

Ring in the beginning of the Christmas holiday season with the transformation of the beautiful Bayfront Marina into a Fiesta Holiday. The fun begins with the AEP Texas Children’s parade and continues with the Children’s Activity Area, Children’s Fun Zone, Children’s Gift of Love, inflatable games, cookie decorating, live entertainment, food and gift vendors and enjoyable family activities throughout the evening. Corpus Christi Bayfront, (361) 510-0480, harborlightscc.com

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COMMUNITY

Portland Chatwork Christmas Tour of Homes Dec. 3rd

Tour beautifully decorated homes and the historic “Little Library” and enjoy refreshments, entertainment, and a bake sale at the Portland Community Center, 2000 Billy G Webb Drive, from 1-5 pm.

Proceeds from this event benefit the community through monetary gifts to the local police, fire department, senior citizens, library and deserving scholarship applicants. Portland Community Center, (361) 643-2827, facebook.com/chatworkcivicclub

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

editor's pick BENEFIT

KEDT Food & Wine Classic | Jan. 26th Enjoy food from South Texas restaurants and caterers with a wonderful selection of wine for sampling. All proceeds benefit KEDT, your community-owned station. Corpus Christi Museum of

Science & History, (361) 855-2213, kedt.org

ART

COMMUNITY

This timeless classic is a spectacular musical, which tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge as he goes through a series of strange events after being warned by his former business partner, Jacob Marley, to change his ways. This brilliant musical follows Scrooge on Christmas Eve, as he is visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, which leads him to ultimately discover the true spirit of Christmas.

Harbor Playhouse, (361) 888-7469, harborplayhouse.com

Ring in the New Year in style. The gala will feature continuous live music, an elegant dinner buffet, champagne toast at midnight and much more!

Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, (361) 887-1600, Omnihotels.com/CorpusChristiNewYear

A Christmas Carol Through Dec. 18th

ARTS Santa Classics Exhibition Through Dec. 31st

Santa, combined with some of the greatest paintings of art history, will deck the halls of the Art Museum of South Texas. Opening on November 4 and running for the two months through Christmas, the digital artwork of Ed Wheeler, which mixes Santa with the classics of art history, will be displayed on the museum’s walls. Art Museum of South Texas, (361) 825-3513, artmuseumofsouthtexas.org

Midnight on the Bay Dec. 31st

COMMUNITY Port Aransas Tour of Homes Jan. 28th

This event features a diverse collection of homes, all located in the heart of “old town” Port Aransas. From historically significant to modern renovations to new construction to glamping, you will visit homes that showcase island living at its best! These cottages, casas and condos exemplify the life and charm of “old town” Port Aransas.

This extraordinary home tour is accessible via bicycle, golf cart, vehicles or on foot. Port Aransas Community Center, (361) 332-8080, PortAransasGardenClub.org

STAAR Test Prep

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Out & About | Social Hour

Moonlight in the Gardens

1.

Photos by: Rachel Durrent

1. Darcy Schroeder, Sally Gill & James Gill 2. Geoff & Katanya Sanford 3. Dr. Pat Polastri & Daniel Nytting 4. Anette Medlin, Tom Tagliabue, Shelby O’Brien & Christina Hunter 5. Sarah and Troy Nicholson

2.

5. Allen & Anne Mossiman

5.

4.

6.

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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

3.

1700 STATE HIGHWAY 361, SUITE E ∙ PORT ARANSAS ∙ 361.749.1881 ∙ WWW.COASTALCLOSETPA.COM Show Me Your Mumu ∙ Joie ∙ Trina Turk ∙ Southern Tide ∙ Splendid ∙ Ella Moss ∙ Claridge & King ∙ Helen John ∙ Sea Folly Swim Johnny O. ∙ Brackish ∙ Rowdy Gentleman ∙ Filson ∙ Michaels ∙ Kendra Scott ∙ Hazel Smyth ∙ Dian Malouf ∙ Julie Vos ∙ Gigi Bags The Beaufort Bonnet Company ∙ Prodoh ∙ Magnificent Baby ∙ Mini Melissa ∙ Ipanema ∙ Kickee Pants ∙ Tiger Joe ∙ Johnny O. Boys

361.992.3501 | 5420 McArdle Rd, Corpus Christi [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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1.

Out & About | Social Hour

Corpus Christi Symphony Season Grand Opening Photos by: Rachel Durrent

1. Marylee Browning, Patty Nuss & Bill McDowell 2. Madeline Schmidt & Molly Pierce 3. Lacey Anderson & Jesse Healy

2.

4. Phoebe Spencer & Mabel Byrens 5. John & Susanne Wood 6. Brad & Jane Kisner 7. Megan Greige & Phebe Leach

4.

5.

6.

7.

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3.

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In-Office Facial Rejuvenation The holidays are right around the corner and we all want to look our best for the many events that are planned with family and friends. While there is not quite enough time to fully recover after surgical treatments that offer significant and long lasting improvements, there are many well-tested treatments that will have you looking your best for this wonderful season.

We now have the availability of botulinum toxin, (Dysport, Botox) that help improve the appearance of wrinkles on the forehead, between the eyebrows and around the eyes. We also have fillers (Restylane, Juvederm) that help improve the appearance of the lips and lines around the lips. We www.corpuschristiplastics.com also offer Sculptra, which can give dramatic results in returning to fullness of the cheeks and upper face that gives the face a very youthful, refreshed look. Kybella is another in office injectable that is now available that helps improve the contours of the neck.

After you decide you want an in office injectable treatment, the next step is to pick your injector. It is very important to make sure your injector is well trained, has completed his/her residency successfully and is board certified. In plastic surgery, a membership in the American Board of Plastic Surgery confirms that your surgeon has successfully completed residency, passed their board exams, and follow the high ethical and professional standards set by the organization. Not everyone is board certified. It is also important to make sure that you have a good rapport with your plastic surgeon and his/her office staff.

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele At The Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele, MD, FACS, is a board certified plastic surgeon and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. They put the patient first and strive to provide the best care with the highest standards alongside the latest proven technologies at the best value. Dr. VJ, as he is known by many of his patients, has been performing these procedures in Corpus Christi for the past eight years.

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele Where Beautiful Results & Experience Meet.

5826 ESPLANADE DRIVE, SUITE 101 CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS 78414 (361) 888-7417 CORPUSCHRISTIPLASTICS.COM 80 The Bend

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Cuisine DECEMBER/JANUARY

FARM TO TABLE 82 DINING GUIDE 86 THE DISH 88 THE DRINK 92

What’s Inside Masa, the building block to tamales, is a dough made from freshly ground hominy.

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TimeHonored Tamales Tamale means ‘I love you.’

People have been saying ‘I love you’ with these steamed treats for thousands of years.

By: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Durrent

82 The Bend

Technically, the word tamale comes from the Nahautl, or Aztec, word tammalli, which means “wrapped.” Aztec women made tamales wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves for their husbands and sons when they had to travel far from home. The message wrapped up in tamales was, “Travel safe, eat well, come home soon, I love you.”

Tamales are a great travel food, because they come in their own wrappers. That is why tamales are given as ‘I love you’ gifts during the Christmas holidays when so many families are on the road.

Making tamales is a holiday tradition in homes across The Bend. The family gets together in the kitchen for tamale-making parties with a lot of laughing, talking, teasing, and catching up. The house fills with the wonderful smells of good food on the stove. As family and friends come and go they are given tamales to take with them, to make sure they eat well as they travel.

If you are one who makes your own tamales at Christmas time, you are probably very particular about your recipe. Most likely, you got the

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

recipe from your grandmother, who got it from her grandmother. This recipe may not even be written down—you just know it.

Here is our tamale recipe from the farm. We keep it simple, just like the Aztecs. Tamales are made up of only three components: masa (ground hominy), filling (some type of shredded meat), and a corn husk to wrap it in.

For the filling, the ancient Aztecs used frog, flamingo, fish, or rabbit. Those ingredients are a little exotic for us, so we use a beautiful pork roast from our own pastured hogs.

To make their masa, the Aztecs dried corn, then boiled it in wood ash, dried it again, then ground it into powder. We save ourselves some time by simply purchasing a nice bag of prepared masa harina from the store, not to mention the corn husks, spices, and lard. You can find all these wholesome ingredients at Kimmi’s Fine Foods in Rockport.

If you have family coming for the holidays, there is no better way to celebrate than to throw a tamale-making party. Everyone, even the little ones, can join in the fun.

And as your guests depart, make sure everyone has a package of warm, wonderful, homemade tamales.

When they open the wrapper on the road for that delicious taste of home, they will know that you love them.

83 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Traditional Tamales Makes 3 dozen Prep time: about 2 hours 30 minutes Cook time: 4 hours, 45 minutes Ingredients: 2-3 lbs ham roast 1 large sweet onion, sliced 6 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed 2 tbsp chili powder 2 tsp dried oregano 2 tsp cumin Salt and pepper, to taste One package corn husks For Masa: 4 cups masa harina 1 tsp chili powder 1 ½ tsp baking powder 2 tsp salt 1 cup high-quality lard

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Directions: Place roast, onion, garlic, and spices in a large pot. Cover ingredients with water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer roast for about 3-4 hours, or until tender (alternately, you can place all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours).

Combine dry ingredients for masa in a large bowl. Using a fork or pastry cutter, incorporate lard into masa mixture until it resembles coarse oatmeal. Add enough reserved cooking liquid (about two cups), until a soft dough is formed.

While the roast is cooking, submerge husks in a bowl of hot water for about an hour, or until pliable.

Remove husks from water and pat or air dry. Tear thin strips from some of the smaller corn husks to use as twine to bind your tamales.

To assemble the tamales, spread about 1 tablespoon masa thinly on a corn husk. Add 1-1 ½ tbsp shredded pork in the center of the masa.

Starting at one end, carefully roll the tamale and fold the bottom of the husk up, securing it by tying a strip of husk into a knot around the tamale.

Once tender, remove roast from the pot and shred it with your hands or a fork as soon as it is cool enough to handle. Reserve the ham bone for another use. Using a food processor or immersion blender, blend the remaining cooking liquid ingredients until smooth. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Place the tamale open side up in a pot fitted with a steamer basket.

Steam over boiling water for about 45 minutes, until masa is firm. Serve with your favorite salsa.

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Dining Guide Corpus Christi Padre Island Port Aransas Rockport Outdoor dining Live music

$ = Under $10 $$ = Mostly $10 - $20 $$$ = $20 and up The Bend Magazine Dining Guide is a select list of restaurants around the Coastal Bend.

Implicitly, the magazine’s editors recommend all of these restaurants and they are not advertisements. Listings are updated monthly and appear based on space availability. Reviews and articles are written by our editors as a service to readers.

Restaurant owners: If you have news about your restaurant or a correction to our listing, we’re all ears! Send an email to editor@thebendmag.com or call (361) 792-3606

86 The Bend

Cuisine | Dining Guide

American 8te $ A shabby chic interior feel with classic comfort dishes that have a simple twist. They have it all breakfast, lunch, and dinner! 1220 Airline #250, (361) 723-0261, Facebook.com/8tecctx Andy’s Country Kitchen $ You will feel right at home just like eat’n in mom’s kitchen. Great southern comfort food that gets back to the basics! 5802 S Staples St, (361) 993-0251, Andyskitchen.com Atomic Omelette& Grill $ Omelettes are just the beginning here! Comfortable atmosphere, with a flavor for casual dining and handmade family recipes. 6313 Wooldridge Rd #10, (361) 334-3942, Atomicomelette.com Citrus Bayfront Bistro $ Enjoy everything homemade, even down to the pie crusts with a gorgeous view of the marina. 100 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 882-2047, Citrusbistro.com Irie’s Island Food $ With bold purpose and flavor craving taste buds, they set forth a new twist on local fare and many culinary delights from islands around the globe. 503 N Alister St, (361) 749-2310, Iriesislandfood.com Liberty Hall Inferno $$ Herbs and vegetables grown on site, your dining experience will be unforgettable! 106 E. Cotter, Port Aransas, TX 78373, (361) 749-4888 MacDaddy's Family Kitchen $$ Serves BBQ, Fried Chicken & Seafood. Big tables for big groups, they'll also deliver! 118 Beach Street Port Aransas, Texas 78373, (361) 749-2271, acdaddysfamilykitchen.com The Grille $ Ensures you’ll always have the variety that is the spice of life! With ingredients sourced from Texas, Burger patties and soups are all made from scratch. 3063 Main St, (361) 775-1000, Facebook.com/thegrillingleside The Groove $$ A little something for every discriminating craving with an eclectic dining experience. Nothing is ever frozen or put in a fryer! 2001 N Hwy 35, (361) 729-3663, Thegrooverockport.com

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

The Post $$ Enjoy this pub in a communal setting with dishes that are meant to be shared, all alongside a cocktail or beer of course! 3850 S Alameda, (361)452-0907, Facebook.com/postcc Town & Country Café $ Down-to-earth this diner next door serves the best in homestyle American comfort food for breakfast and lunch. 4228 S Alameda St, (361) 992-0360, Facebook.com/town-country-cafe

Asian Aka Sushi $$ Creative and daring rolls that work well together.

The authentic Asian cuisine made with the Chef’s homemade recipe will be sure to surprise you. 415 N Water St, (361) 882-8885 Sang’s Imperial Café $$ Culturally dynamic décor brings an international ambiance to the atmosphere. Their commitment to the healthiest and freshest food shows through from the dishes to the sushi bar. 4650 Corona Dr, (361) 8088881, Facebook.com/imperialcafe TakeNiwa $$$ Sit in Hibachi and watch their talented chefs prepare your dinner. Or dine yourself to juicy steak and full sushi bar, your choice! 5216 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 356-6888, takeniwa.com

Café BonnA-Petit $ Chef Sophie will always make you feel warmly welcomed, just as her gourmet dishes do. And don’t forget to grab a to-go dinner! 4301 S Alameda St, (361) 334-2579, Bonna-petit.com Daily Grind $ A coffee bar with personality, they offer the finest in gourmet, rustic, or straight-up coffee favorites. Hungry?

Stick around for their daily quiche specials, scones, and sandwiches. 302 S Austin St, (361) 790-8745, Rockportdailygrind.com Hester’s Café and Coffee Bar $ Looking for a true family experience where love is the number one ingredient, along with the simple but important concept of quality and the healing powers of good food 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd, (361) 885-0151, 1714 S Alameda St, (361) 885-0558, 3812 S Alameda St, (361) 855-1892, Hesterscafe.com

shop. dine. be merry.

SANTA PHOTOS NOW–DEC. 24TH Presented by Apollo Towing

The sights and sounds of the season begin here.

5488 S. Padre Island Drive • Corpus Christi [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Cuisine | The Dish

A Healthful Hub By: Jordan Regas Photos: Rachel Durrent

A word play on Hula Beach, Hula Peach Fruit Hub & Café brings a healthy, island vibe to Corpus Christi’s dining scene.

B

right pastels, hibiscus flowers, and the smell of fresh cut fruit welcome guests to Hula Peach Fruit Hub & Café.

Tucked away in Hamlin Shopping Center, this tropical themed café offers much more than premium fruit bowls and trays.

Growing up in the Coastal Bend, owners Kim Luddeke and Charli Wright wanted to offer healthful and delicious lunch options as well as after-school snacks.

“Working in the oil field, I would take things out to my clients all the time. It was always tacos and cookies, and I happened upon Fruit Creations.

That’s really where it all started,” says Wright. “It came down to not necessarily pushing a diet or anything but just providing a healthier option than burgers and fries.”

Like many South Texans impacted by the drop in oil prices, she needed to make a career change.

Wright called her best friend, Kim Luddeke, a former elementary school teacher and stay-at-home-

88 The Bend

mom, who was looking to re-enter the workforce.

Immediately, the partnership was born.

Wright and Luddeke met with the owner of Fruit Creations in Calallen. They loved everything about it, and the duo decided to open a branch in town.

Hula Peach offers many of the same recipes as Fruit Creations, but it continues to add specialties of their own.

Luddeke is the kitchen mastermind, constantly creating up new recipes and scrumptious treats. She grew up in a family of cooks and enjoys adding her own twist to traditional family recipes passed down through generations. She likes to call it “hula-fying.”

Menu items such as Mama’s Pasta Salad and Kim’s Homemade Chicken Salad are some of the most popular among guests. In addition, the sun-dried tomato hummus, supremely seasoned with a slight kick toward the end, is a must try.

“We really balance each other out very well. We are still best friends. We made a pact that we were

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

not going to change that. We have our rough days, but we get through them. We end every day with a prayer,” says Wright.

Hula Peach offers an extensive list of healthy and customizable smoothie and juice options, too. Try the popular Acai Banana Peanut Butter Fitness. For a greener option, sip the Green Giant Burst, packed full of cucumbers, kale, spinach, Greek yogurt and max green protein.

Hula Peach hopes to deliver Luau Lunch Boxes to schools soon as a healthier lunch alternative. As Hula Peach prepares for its first winter season in the Coastal Bend, Luddeke is releasing a seasonal King Ranch Chicken Soup. But it always feels like summertime inside Hula Peach.

3823 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 334-3773

ties r a p on s i t a u grad s Reuniones Clas te Parti rties Privastmas Pa tings Chri ness Mee ners Busi arsal Din ering Rehe ption Cat Rece

Improving the Quality of Life in the Coastal Bend since 1981 For over 35 years, the Coastal Bend Community Foundation has helped area residents achieve their charitable goals. During this time over $93 million in non-profit grants and student scholarships have been made. For the past seven years, the Foundation has organized the Coastal Bend Day of Giving which last year topped $1.9 million for charities providing needs of the most vulnerable in the Coastal Bend. If you would like to join with us please call 361.882.9745.

Open for Lunch Mon - Fri (11a-3p)

After Hours & Weekends available for Private Parties & Events

Home of 9 All-You-Care to Eat Sides & Homemade Cobbler (while it lasts)

(361)884-4BBQ

or

hoegemeyers.com

Coverage for all the things you care for.

• Automobile Insurance • Homeowners Insurance • Life Insurance

JACK ALSPAUGH

jalspaugh@farmersagent.com 5922 YORKTOWN BLVD, BLDG 2 • CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78414

Call 361.232.4717 today for Auto, Home, Life and Business. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Cuisine | Dining Guide

Barbeque Hoegemeyer’s BBQ $$ Smoked freshbarbecue on a strong German heritage background and a satisfaction for something unique.

South Texas barbecue that comes from the heart.

711 Concrete St, (361) 884-4227, Hoegemeyers.com

French Bleu Bistro $$$ True playful twists to classic French bistro dishes.

The chef’s commitment to the use of fresh, local, peak of the season products is evident in the quality of each dish. 500 N Water St, (361) 887-2121, Bleubistrocc.com Dragonfly $$$ A fine multitude of international backgrounds to the cuisine prepared entirely from scratch daily by the owner and culinary artist. The menu is full of unforgettable flavor profiles to satisfy any craving.

14701 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-2224, Facebook.com/dragonfly-restaurant Grill

Bar & Grill Brewster Street Ice House $$ Who says that you can’t have 4-Star food in a casual environment? Not the Brewster Street Grill! Bring your kids or stay for concert, they have it all. 1724 N Tancahua, (361) 884-2739, Brewsterstreet.net

Executive Surf Club $$ The perfect casual family dining spot. All the while supplying the most beer on tap in the city. 309 N Water St, (361) 884-7873, Waterstreetmarketcc. com/executive-surf-club FINS Grill and Icehouse $$ For the past 11 years, they've featured fresh seafood, 1/2 lb Angus beef burgers & chicken. Full full bar and you "You Hook 'Em, We Cook 'Em" for the fisherman. 420 West Cotter, Port Aransas 78373, (361) 749-8646, finsgrillandicehouse.com

Stingray’s Taphouse and Grill $$ Anindustrial-chic elite sports bar that provides you ‘raving fans’ a unique dining and entertaining experience, right around the corner from the beach!

401 Beach St, (361)749-2287, Stingraystaphouse.com

90 The Bend

The Brewery $$ Brick Oven Pizza, Pub food & Burgers sound good?

How about a fresh brewed-in-house beer? 429 Alister Street, Port Aransas, Texas 78373, (361) 749- 2739, portaransasbrewery.com

Italian Authentic New York Pizza $$ True, authentic New York Pizza right in your hands in Corpus Christi, complete with red-checkered tablecloths. 5838 S Staples St, (361) 986-1151, Eatmorepizza.cc Bellino’s $$ Comfortable and welcoming with a trattoria style authentic cuisine. You won’t find these dishes anywhere else in Corpus Christi! 3815 S Alameda St, (361) 814-8998, 523 S. Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-9003, Bellinotexas.com Brooklyn Pie Co. $ Enjoy a slice or indulge a whole “pie” of their delicious secret pizza tradition. 15326 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-1100, Brooklynpie.com Grimaldi’s Pizzeria $$ Distinctive and authentic pizza baked to perfection in a signature coal burning oven you can see right from your seat, offers a unique crisp flavor. 5488 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 980-8600, Grimaldispizzeria.com House of Rock $ Great pizza and appetizers, cold beer, and live entertainment! Does it get any better? $$ 511 Starr St, (361) 882-7625, Texashouseofrock.ticketfly.com Mamma Mia’s $$$ Warm and cozy mom and pop Italian experience will make you feel like family. Entrees are delicious Italian culture on a plate. 128 N Mesquite St, (361) 8833773, Facebook.com/mamma-mias Mesquite St. Pizza and Pasta Co. $$ Their 60 year old pizza oven brought in straight from Brooklyn New York, makes for the perfect pizza, as well asall the crusts and sauces are made in house. 617 Mesquite St, (361) 882-7499, Eatpizzadowntown.com Panjo’s Pizza & Pasta $ Ditch the pomp and circumstance, and eat the way your Italian Grandma intended. Fuss free and real, classic, and a true local secret! 2744 Highway 35 N, (361) 729-1411

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Russo’s Coal Fired Italian Kitchen $$ Brick-oven-fired Italian entrees and New York style pizza down south. The simplicity of a causal Pizzeria with the freshness of a fine Italian restaurant. 6418 S Staples St, (361) 986-0620, Nypizzeria.com Venetian Hot Plate $$$ Quality cuisine and a quaint, yet energetic atmosphere, giving a real touch of Italy. 232 Beach St, (361) 749-7617, Venetianhotplate.com Bella Luna Downtown $$ Authentic gourmet Italian cuisine always made fresh to order in the heart of The Marina Arts District. 429 Schatzell St, (361) 887-4777, Bellalunadowntown.com Port “A” Pizzeria $$ Bring the kids, as this family-friendly pizzeria offers an all-day buffet, video games and draft beer. Or, order straight off the menu! 407 E Avenue G, (361) 749-5226, Portapizzeria.com,

Mediterranean Ginger Café and Grill $$ Eastern hospitality and authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, there’s so much to love about these Persian, Turkish, Lebanese, and IndoPakistani specialties. 7009 S Staples, 103, (361) 946-9834, Gingercafecc.com

Mexican Molé $$ The vision lies in freshness, tradition and distinction; Mole’ is where true Central Mexican Cuisine can be enjoyed. 6042 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 334-6081, Molerestaurant.com

Per uvian Costa Sur Wok & Ceviche Bar $$ This cevicheria is a true Peruvian party on your palette. The dishes are fresh takes on traditional originals from Peru. 15113 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 945-8303, Costasurcc.com

Seafood Black Marlin Bar & Grill $$$ Sit indoors, sit outdoors, see the Gulf Coast from any seat in the house while diving into top-quality coastal cuisine, live music and the best views around. 258 Snapdragon, (361) 749-4653, Blackmarlinbarandgrill.com

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Countdown to the new year at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel. Starting at $259 per night, the package includes deluxe accommodations, late checkout and two tickets to the New Year’s Eve Gala. The Gala will feature continuous live music, an elegant dinner buffet, champagne toast at midnight and much more.

Live Bands | Hot Sauce ATX • BRutherz Individual tickets • $100 361-887-1600 • OmniHotels.com/CorpusChristiNewYear

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

*Must be 21 years of age or older to attend.

Semiformal or Western formal attire required; black tie optional. Dress code strictly enforced. thebendmag.com 91

Get Ready for Winter

Cuisine | The Drink

Sipping Tequila The hot, new trend in the Coastal Bend SALT raises the bar in sophistication and flavor.

By: Lexi Buquet Photos: Carla Swallow

T

his bar within a bar, SALT Tequila and Mezcal Bar is a unique gem offering over 100 different bottles of tequila and mezcal.

Co-owners Barbara Canales’s and Doug Allison’s shared love of Mexico and the water inspired them to complement the pristine Havana by adding a charming, elegant bar inside the club dedicated to celebrating the history and art behind quality tequilas from around the world. With a freshly painted green wall covered with rich succulents and a hand-crafted wooden bar, Canales and Allison called on local artists to create a relaxing atmosphere where Old World meets beach chic.

Much like whiskey and scotch, the tequila process falls in various phases represented in three main categories: platas (silvers fresh out of the distillery), reposados (aged at least two months), and añejos (aged over one year). All these types offer a different smell and flavor, and notably the most refined type – the ultra añejo. Since September, SALT has attracted new clientele, all with a thirst for trying the various flavors and learning the story behind the packaging and design of each bottle.

The Best of Both Worlds Online & Print thebendmag.com 92 The Bend

Why a tequila bar in a Cuban club?

Owners Barbara Canales and Doug Allison share a love for Mexico and beaches and decided to blend the Cuban-inspired Havana Club with the tequila-famous Mexican island flare. Combining both cultures exposes customers to the best of the Latin beaches. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

The SALT staff is knowledgeable of the product and will inspire a true respect and appreciation for the art of tequila, making the experience both fun and fascinating.

The attention to detail and authenticity intensifies the experience. SALT offers over 50 types of salt from around the world to customize each cocktail, which are delivered in hand-made Mexican blown glass.

“SALT is devoted to providing the best quality of product, the freshest ingredients, and natural juices,” says Canales. “All of our drinks are shaken, not blended. Nothing is frozen.” Try their spicy yet refreshing “Jalapeno Watermelon Margarita,” the pleasantly modified classic “Cucumber Lime Margarita,” and the sweet and natural “Prickly Pear Margarita.”

Inhale, smell, drink, and exhale to taste the beautiful flavor.

500 N. Water St. (inside Havana), TX 78401

CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE, P.A.

“Making Lives Better” “Making Lives Better”

Gabriel Lopez, M.D. Board Certified in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Specializing in Interventional Pain

Rudy Garza, M.D.

Are you suffering from ChronicBoard Pain?

Eligible in Pain Medicine Fellowship Dr. Lopez and Dr.Garza may be able to help.Trained in Pain Medicine

• Treatment options include injections * that reduce orall alleviate Treating typespain of and/or chronic pain a variety of pain relieving medications

* Most insurances accepted

• Treating all types of chronic pain including, but not limited back, neck, * Both Drs. are to fluent in Spanish joint, muscle, leg, arm, hip, knee, pelvic, abdominal, headache, shingles and diabetic pain.

• Accepting new patients by self or physician referral depending

on insurance.

3825 SPID Corpus Christi, TX 78415

(Located between Kostoryz & Weber)

• Accepting Medicare, BCBS, Spohn, Humana, Humana Gold, Cigna, 361.225.0089 | www.ccpainmed.com | Workers “Se Habla Español” Tricare, Aetna, United Health Care, Comp insurance and many

CAL1187791

smaller ones.

Specializing in Interventional Pain

|

Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Board Certified in Pain Medicine and Anesthesiology by the American Board of Anesthesiology Gabriel Lopez, M.D. Board Certified in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

3825 SPID Corpus Christi, Tx 78415 (Located between Kostoryz & Weber)

361.225.0089 • www.ccpainmed.com • “Se Habla Español” [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Rudy Garza, M.D. Board Eligible in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

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Happy Holidays!

Family | Restorative | Cosmetic 361.991.7791 5756 S. Staples - Suite I • Corpus Christi, TX 78413 94 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

The experience you can trust!

Cuisine | Dining Guide Black Sheep Bistro $$ A unique, trendy atmosphere that transcends age and style with a menu full of foods rich, colorful, and full of flavor. 15201 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-4819, Blacksheepbistro.net Doc’s Seafood and Steaks $$ Lively and enjoyable selection for surf ‘n’ turf in an open-air setting overlooking the water, plus live music. 13309 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6744, Docseafoodandsteaks.com Glow $$ From a renovated boathouse, offers a simply cooked bistro fare using the best local seafood and produce.

Bright, relaxed atmosphere with white-washed ship lap wood walls and a full bar. 1815 Broadway St, (361) 727-2644, Glowrockport.com

Satisfy Your Holiday Sweet Tooth with Our Delicious Pies & Cheesecakes!

Harrison’s Landing $$ Tavern on the Bay at Harrison’s Landing is Corpus Christi’s newest outdoor restaurant & bar located in the heart of the city’s marina, and is the only place in town with a floating bar! 108 Peoples St, (361) 881-8503, Harrisonslanding.net Island Time Sushi Bar and Seafood Grill $$ Stop in for fresh and inventive sushi, seafood, appetizers and desserts! Check out the weekday specials! 14225 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-3046, Facebook.com/islandtimesushi

Latitude 28˚02’ $$$ Contemporary dining experience specializing in tasty fresh, local seafood. Eye-catching walls that serve as a gallery space, holding colorful works by local artists.

105 N Austin St, (361) 727-9009, Latituderockport. com Lisabella’s Bistro $$$ Casually coastal elegance yet, family-friendly setting.

Remarkable gourmet twist to the lunch fare, a poolside eatery, and a full bar that goes beyond just ordinary.

5009 Hwy 361, (361) 749-4222, Cinnamonshore. com Rock & Rolls Sushi Lounge $$ At Rock & Roll, they’re dishing out the most delectable and delicate fish from islands all over the world. Delight in a “sound check” or cold appetizer, an “opening act” or hot appetizer, then “plug in” for some rolls and sashimi! 15121 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 9491110, Rockandrollssushi.com Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn $$$ Gourmet dining at its finest in a beautiful Louisiana style

You’re Minutes Away

from a Stress-Free Day

Relax and Find Your Peace of Mind in our All Organic Day Spa located conveniently in Downtown Corpus Christi HOT STONE THERAPY • MASSAGES • BODY WRAPS FACIALS • COUPLES MASSAGES & MORE 602 N. Lower Broadway St. Corpus Christi, Tx 78401 Appointments: 361.737.7813

www.peaceofmindmassagecorpuschristi.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Now until February get a complimentary 30 minute Oxygen Bar with the purchase of any one hour service.

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Cuisine | Dining Guide home that sets the perfect tone for a taste of luxury. Historic background gives a unique sense of its famous visitors.

200 E Cotter Ave, (361)749-1540, Rooseveltsatthetarponinn.com Saltwater Grill $$ Unique family atmosphere with fresh and tasty seafood that will leave you coming back for more. 2401 Cimarron Blvd, (361) 993-7258, Saltwatergrillcc.com Scuttlebutt’s Bar & Grill $$ Extensive menu, makes sure to have something for everyone. Foods made from scratch from the dressings to the burger patties14254 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6769, Scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com Seafood & Spaghetti Works $$ A unique dining experience, you’ll find the very best in seafood, steak, Italian dishes, pizza, soups, and desserts all made from scratch. 901 S Alister St,

(361) 749-5666, Seafoodandspaghetti. com Shells $$ Warm, inviting neighborhood restaurant offers a creative and far ranging menu that reflects a variety of world cuisines.

Shakes off the old and tired and gets down to real good food. 522 E Avenue G, (361) 749-7621, Eatatshells.com

Shempy’s Grill $$ Laid back setting with a variety of delightfully cooked fish will turn anyone into a seafood lover. 3913 Highway 35 S, (361) 727-0019, Facebook.com/Shempys Snoopy’s Pier $$ Outdoor dining experience and Local harvested quality with an on-site fish house and shrimp breading facility that enables the freshness. 13313 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-8815, Snoopyspier.com

The Boiling Pot $$ Roll up your sleeves and take manners to a new level for a great Cajun experience. 201 S Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-6972 The Pheonix $$ This international bistro/nouveau American fine-quality cuisine is prepared daily using many ingredients from the Corpus Christi Farmer’s Market creating a constantly eclectic seasonal menu, where guests can choose to sit indoor and outdoor. 337 N Alister St, (361) 749-9277, Facebook.com/ThePhoenix-Restaurant-and-Bar Trout Street Bar & Grill $$$ Cajun-inspired seafood in an airy environs is a wondrous way to enjoy food and cocktails inside the nautical themed restaurant or on the outdoor deck offering marina views. 104 West Cotter, (361) 749-7800, Tsbag.com Water Street Oyster Bar $$ Long-standing, well-known Corpus Christi landmark operation serving oysters, sushi rolls & Gulf seafood in a historic, brick-walled space. 309 N Water St, (361) 881-9448, Waterstreetmarketcc. com Water Street Seafood Company $$$ Locally owned and operated and voted “Best of the Best” seafood. Fish is fresh never frozen, while sauces and dressings are all made in house from scratch. 309 N Water St, (361) 882-8683, Waterstreetmarketcc.com Yardarm $$$ Savory seafood dishes with great bay view seating. Family owned gives off a special ambiance in the atmosphere as well as the entrees. 4310 Ocean Dr, (361) 855-8157

Steakhouse Katz 21 $$$ Sets the standard for premier fine dining experience. Prime steakhouse specializes in dry-aged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood. 5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, Katz21.com 96 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Niko’s Steakhouse $$$ Committed to the motto “Great food, Great times, Great experience.” Casual and elegant atmosphere that will exceed any steak lover’s expectations. 5409 Saratoga Blvd, (361) 992-2333, Nikossteakhouse.com Republic of Texas $$$$ One of the top dining destinations. A multi-level steakhouse offers diners beautiful panoramic views of the CC Bay. All the ingredients for the perfect experience! 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 887-1600, Omnihotels.com

Thai Thai Cottage $$ Unique and refreshing, Thai curries meet teriyaki and Chinese dishes in a cozy red cottage. 5830 McArdle Rd, (361) 9930777, Thai-cottage.com

Vietnamese Vietnam Restaurant $$$ Local fine dining with an extensive menu and eye catching Vietnamese culture spread throughout the dining area. 701 N Water St, (361) 853-2682, Vietnamrestaurant.com

JOIN US ON THE PATIO at

AS WE CELEBRATE a

BLUE, BLUE CHRISTMAS benefitting corpus christi police officerS' association

BLUE SANTA!

FIND OUT MORE AT WATERSTMARKETCC.COM [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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97

4146 Flour Bluff Dr. - $1,999,000 Approximately 80 acres

History | Looking Back

A Bright got zoe? Tradition By: Jeff King Photo: Jason Page

The Tree of Lights kicks off the holiday season during the Harbor Lights Festival in Corpus Christi.

H

alloween candy had just enough time to be poured into bowls and handed out to local trick-or-treaters before the Christmas tree displays were erected in local stores. Young ones began spotting tents packed full of fresh Christmas trees as they ride along on their way home from school, a sight that leaves them begging parents to get the family Christmas tree up as soon as they arrive home. One particular Christmas tree at the corner of Schatzel and Shoreline in downtown Corpus Christi has played a special role for 35 years.

40 Great Lakes - $464,900

1502 Cantera Trail - $525,000 Approximately 80 acres (79 acres AG exempt) near Yorktown boasts wonderful 2 bed, 2 bath barn residence with view of private lake and “Barn Master” metal roofed stable with 10 horse stalls, 20 saddle tack room, feed room, kitchen, office, half bath. Other features include huge covered porch overlooking arena and circle pen, solar panels, 4 water wells, equipment garage/workshop, haybarn. paradise!!

3275 Ocean Dr. - Hunter’s $1,250,000

During the annual Harbor Lights Festival, Santa’s motorcade makes its jolly way down to the Tree of Lights, where a giant light switch awaits. With the entire community gathered ‘round the square, the countdown begins. With the help of a few lucky children, Santa and his little helpers flip the light switch.

The cheerful hearts of every onlooker are illuminated by the glow of a Christmas tree that rivals the height of nearby buildings.

Zoe Gottlich #1 Top Producer

Just as families come together to light the family tree, the Sparkling City by the Sea unites every year under the heartwarming glow of a tree that represents all that is Christmas and the holiday season. Throughout this holiday season, may your hearts be jovial, may your glasses be full, and may the light of the Tree of Lights be a reminder of the wonderful community that we share in the Coastal Bend.

7 consecutive years (2009-15)

361.813.9460

zoe.gottlich@coldwellbanker.com

www.gotzoe.com

98 The Bend

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361.651.1200

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

RoseCosmeticSurgery.com

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100 The Bend

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