August 2018

THE DOWNTOWN WE DESERVE: SIX DISTRICTS UNVEILED

STUDENTS WHO SHINE

LEADING THE WAY TO A BRIGHTER FUTURE

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STROKE

Risk Factors, Warning Signs, Types of Strokes, Brain Changes, and Recovery

COGNITIVE REHABILITATION AFTER BRAIN INJURY

• 800,000 Americans suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year, one every 40 seconds

Cognitive rehabilitation is a systematically applied set of medical and theraputic services to improve cognitive funtction.

• Stroke is the leading cause of long-term disability in the USA and the third leading cause of death behind heart disease and cancer • Of every five deaths from stroke, two occur in men and three occur in women, 25% of all strokes occur in people under the age of 65

Specialists who manage cognitive deficits are: Speech-Language Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, and Neuropsychologist.

HOPE: A STROKE RECOVERY GUIDE

PREVALENT COGNITIVE DEFICITS

1. Helpful Information: a collection of important poststroke issues and suggestions for how to address these concerns.

•

2. Opportunity through self-advocacy: find out how to be an active participant in your recovery and why it is so important.

• •

3. Preventing another stroke: life-saving information about how stroke awareness, symptom recognition, and how to decrease your chances of having another stroke.

4. Excercises and recommendations: two illusctrated excercise programs to help you gain strength and range of motion.

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Radiology Associates

Welcomes Robert Yang, M.D.

Dr. Robert Yang has joined the company’s "Pink Dream Team" interpreting women's imaging exams specializing in mammography.

A native Texan, Dr. Yang was born and raised in Houston. He earned degrees from the University of Texas and Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University. He also completed his Internal Medicine Residency, Radiology Residency and Breast Imaging Fellowship - all at Baylor University Medical Center in Dallas. In addition, Dr. Yang speaks fluent Mandarin Chinese.

Dr. Robert Yang

Breast Imaging Fellow Board-Eligible in Diagnostic Radiology

“I am passionate about women’s imaging because I can connect with my patients on a more personal level by directly explaining and guiding them through medical uncertainties. I strive to decrease their anxiety and pain level during biopsies by providing safe, fast, and precise breast procedural skills.”

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415 N. WATER ST.

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We invite you to come dine at the Coastal Bend’s premiere sushi spot, where tradition meets modern cuisine. A simple intimate atmosphere where the quality of food is equally matched by service. Our extensive menu will be sure to please and broaden the pallet.

AUGUST 2018 |

The Education Issue

CONTENTS

36

89 OUT & ABOUT

44 AROUND THE BEND 24 | STYLE & BEAUTY 26 | CURRENTS 29 | TRENDING 30 | GIVING BACK 32 | 5 BEST 34 | PERSON OF INTEREST

HEALTH 56| BE WELL 60 | MEDICAL MATTERS 62 | MEET THE DOCTOR HOME & GARDEN 66| OPEN HOUSE 70| SPACES 72 | GARDENING

76 | ARTS & CULTURE 78 | CELEBRATION 80 | DATE BOOK 82 | SOCIAL HOUR CUISINE 89 | FARM TO TABLE 96 | THE DRINK 99 | DINING GUIDE 104 | THE DISH HISTORY 106 | LOOKING BACK

Copyright © 2018 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.

12 The Bend

Art Museum of South Texas Affiliated with Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

Bringing Art to Life Coming soon

to Corpus Christi

Masterpieces

of American Modernism THIS EXHIBITION WAS ORGANIZED BY

Art Museum of South Texas Affiliated with Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi

From the Vilcek Collection

September 14, 2018 – January 6, 2019

w w w . a r t m u s e u m o f s o u t h t e x a s . o r g

FUNDING GENEROUSLY PROVIDED IN PART BY: N e w Yo r k , N e w Yo r k

IMAGE CREDIT ABOVE: Photo of the Art Museum of South Texas 2007Addition Architect Ricardo Legorreta (Mexican, 1961-2011) Photo courtesy of Dan Davis of Corpus Christi, Texas.

Prichard Family Foundation

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

IMAGE CREDIT RIGHT: Georgia O’Keeffe (American,1887-1986) In the Patio, 1950, oil on panel, 30” x 40” From the Vilcek Foundation

thebendmag.com

13

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jason Page Brynn Osborn

ART DIRECTOR: Will Bowling

CONTRIBUTORS: Justin & Kayla Butts Jo Anne Howell Alexa Alley Jacqueline Gonzalez Alexis Mays Jillian Becquet Julieta Hernandez Dayna Worchel Kirby Tello

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick MANAGING EDITOR: Kylie Kinnett ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: Jarred Schuetze

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: jordan@thebendmag.com ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Benavides COPY EDITOR: Kay Pluta

THE BEND OFFICE: 309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.792.3606

EDITORIAL INTERN: Rianna Turner

THEBENDMAG.COM

SUBSCRIPTIONS:

CONNECT WITH US @

thebendmag.com @thebendmag on Instagram and Twitter #CBLife

Correction

On pg. 28 of our “Let’s Grow Together” story (July 2018), we misstated information about GROW Local’s Learning Garden. There are no membership requirements to be a part of the garden. It is a public garden with specific open hours.

We apologize!

On the Cover: Students Who Shine is a way for our magazine to highlight some of the amazing things students are doing around the Coastal Bend. Our cover girl, Alyssa Dykes, recently graduated from Rockport Fulton High School.

With a senior year filled with devastation from Hurricane Harvey, she held her head high and continued to walk towards her bright future. Her, and the other seven students we feature in this issue, are leading the way to bigger and better things. (Photo by: Jason Page)

14 The Bend

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AUGUST / From The Desk Of

If you could give your high school self one piece of advice, what would it be?

Jarred Schuetze Associate Art Director

I could write a book trilogy with the advice I would give my 18yr old self.

Among these, the most important would be to stop caring so much about what people think, and to have patience. This day and age I feel it’s almost second nature for people to take things too personally. So, to my anxiety-stricken, incoming college freshman self I’d say – take a step back, laugh, it’s not that serious.

Brynn Osborn

Contributing Photographer:

The best advice I could give would be to not take yourself too seriously.

Working hard and doing your best have great significance, but you’re young and you still have to have fun along the way. Whether or not you can tell, most people don’t have everything figured out... we’re all just trying to navigate how to do life no matter how long we’ve been around.

Kayla Butts

Contributing Writer

3744 S. Alameda St. Corpus Christi, TX 78411 Phone: 361-225-3744 Facebook: Gatherings/giftbox Instagram: gatherings_giftbox 16 The Bend

I would tell my big haired high school self to stop worrying so much, you got this! And even if you don’t, He does!

Effective prostate cancer treatment with minimal or no side effects STEPHEN G. CHUN, MD Many patients choose proton therapy over conventional radiation since it’s less invasive and spares surrounding tissue and organs.

Patients can usually maintain their quality of life, and many can return to work the same day as treatment.

Side effects, such as incontinence, are minimal to none.

MD Anderson Proton Therapy Center’s experts can precisely target and deliver high radiation doses to kill cancerous cells in the prostate.

Surrounding healthy tissues and vital organs, such as the bladder and

rectum, are spared from extra radiation, resulting in less rectal, genitourinary, and gastrointestinal complications. Fortunately, if found early, prostate cancer has a five-year survival rate of approximately 99 percent.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the United States and is the second leading cause of death from cancer in men. Risk factors include being 65 or older, a family history of prostate cancer, obesity, and being African American.

If you would like more information about the MD Anderson Proton Therapy Center, please call 1-877-632-6789 or visit us at MDAndersonProton.com/Prostate thebendmag.com

17

AUGUST / Letter From The Publisher

Through Hell and Back

I

t was close to five o’clock on a Friday as we sorted through the 60 or so students submitted for this year’s Students Who Shine feature.

While most of the Coastal Bend was thinking about the weekend, I couldn’t stop thinking about how we were going to pick eight students from the pile of nominations spread out across the conference table.

Our team read and re-read the stories and achievements of so many talented and gifted young individuals in our community, submitted by their teachers, parents, and family friends. Many nominees stood out as shining examples of the next generation of leaders in the Coastal Bend. Of those stories, one especially opened my eyes to what life was like for some students in the Coastal Bend after Hurricane Harvey hit a year ago this month.

Around this time last year, Alyssa Dykes was getting ready for her senior year at Rockport-Fulton High School along with many other students in her graduating class. No one could have guessed that, within a few short weeks,

Favorite Page

her entire school and home would be destroyed by a hurricane. She was without power and water for weeks. As the oldest of four, she stepped up to help her parents with her younger siblings while continuing her dual-credit courses and waiting for her high school to reopen. As one of her nomination forms put it, Alyssa went through “hell and back.” She finished her senior year ranked 3rd in her class, with 33 college hours completed, and was even crowned prom queen at the end of the school year.

Alyssa’s story is one that resonates with hundreds of students whose entire lives were practically uprooted by Harvey. Many local students were forced to move out of their homes or change schools. However, Alyssa decided to approach these challenges and obstacles with determination. She set goals for herself and was not going to let a hurricane, or anything else for that matter, stand in her way. Sometimes, it’s when things get the darkest that we have the chance to shine the brightest. You can read more about Alyssa’s plans for the future and meet the rest of this year’s Students Who Shine class on page 44. I think in some way, they all remind me that our dreams are worth striving for, no matter what stands in our way.

Jordan Regas, Publisher

I want to recognize our Summer Intern, Rianna Turner, for the great work she did covering some of Downtown Corpus Christi’s new developments. It was not an easy assignment for a student entering her first internship after one year of college, but she executed it as well as any professional could. She has really been a great asset to our team this summer and we know this is one college student who is going places.

18 The Bend

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AROUND THE BEND STYLE & BEAUTY 24 CURRENTS 26 TRENDING 29 GIVING BACK 30 5 BEST 32 PERSON OF INTEREST 34

What’s Inside Your office might have a dress code, but that shouldn’t stop you from creating a punch with your wardrobe. Try adding a little personality to your outfit with a bold sock choice!

thebendmag.com

23

AROUND THE BEND / STYLE & BEAUTY

thinking outside

theSOCKS out of the cubicle and onto the radar By: Jarred Schuetze Photos by: Brynn Osborn

W

hether you work in a conservative office where there’s little to no room for sartorial expression or a tight budget prevents your ability to show off style in other ways, there are endless reasons why statement socks might become your next wardrobe staple. That said, it still requires a bit of thoughtful consideration—there’s a fine line between looking like a dapper gentleman and that one eccentric science teacher you had in the seventh grade.

Here are some basic guidelines to follow when shopping for your next pair.

24 The Bend

Stand out, don’t distract

Pick a color that reflects an element of your outfit or has similar undertones (i.e. cool or warm). The socks will offer an apparent clash, but not leave the eyes of your coworkers twitching with irritation.

These aren’t your teen’s socks

As a principle, things like beer mugs, poker cards, and cartoon characters are never acceptable. Anything too gimmicky and you’ll look like you work at TGI Friday’s circa 1999. When it comes to

patterns, the best decision is to stick with classic dots, stripes, and other geometric prints.

Show it off, but not too much

Too much ankle and you’ll be mistaken for an Urkel look-a-like, not enough and you’ll have wasted a perfectly good pair of flashy socks. Certain savvy individuals can pull off cuffing their pants (which gives off a more casual vibe). Otherwise, go for a trouser that hovers right at the top of your shoes when standing up and rises to show off the socks when seated.

Don’t overdo it

You never want to be the guy who over wears his fashion socks, regardless of the dress code or how blistering the heat. Make sure to switch up your sock situation on the regular, even try going without—we’re fans of bare ankles. Remember, the more consistent use of statement socks, the less powerful the statement becomes.

thebendmag.com

25

AROUND THE BEND / CURRENTS

CURRENTS By: Rianna Turner

K Space Contemporary Summer Mural

PAPHA Art Show

This yearly series of art camps hosted by K Space will culminate this month into two finished murals across the city! The week-long camps have been held since late June, and have allowed student artists to work alongside muralists to create colorful murals throughout Corpus Christi. Muralist Sandra Gonzales led the Downtown-area camp to create murals in the Marina Arts District, and Mayra Zamora, a muralist and Corpus-native, led camps on the Southside, at La Palmera Mall. Stop and look around at either of these locations this month — you’re sure to see art that will brighten your day.

Otra Fest

This downtown music festival will take place at House of Rock on September 21, 22, and 23.

The festival has the mission of celebrating and showing off the variety of music being played in Texas, showcasing bands such as Bright Light Social Hour, Shinyribs, Superfonicos, and many more! Tickets are on sale at otrafest.com.

26 The Bend

1st Annual Charro Bean Food Truck Festival

The organizers of the Corpus Christi Food Truck Festival have added another festival to their list! This year, on September 22, the city’s first Charro Bean Food Truck Festival will be held at Heritage Park. There will be mariachis, a kid’s play area, and a best charro beans contest, among other activities.

The Port Aransas Preservation and Historical Association is hosting its first Summer Art Show and Fundraiser, benefiting the Port Aransas Museum and Farley Boat Works. The art show will take place on August 4, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Port Aransas Community Center.

The artists will be sharing their commissions with the Historical Association, so good art will also contribute to a good cause.

SEASON TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

Call 361.883.NOTE or visit ccsymphony.org for ticketing and information.

Lights, Maestro, Music

Mozart, Mexico, and The World

Let’s Dance!

Featuring Daniela Liebman, 16 year old piano prodigy

Featuring Barbara Padilla, soprano

Featuring Amit Paled, cello, and Dancers from the Corpus Christi Ballet

Home for The Holidays

Time for Three

Grand Finale

Experience the Tradition!

Featuring string trio, Time for Three

Featuring Elizabeth Adkins, violin, and your Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra

September 22, 2018

December 8, 2018

October 13, 2018

February 9, 2019

At the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Performing Arts Center, 7:30pm

November 10, 2018

March 9, 2019

SPECIAL PROMOTION

the

ULTIMATE

SH OP PING E XP ERIENCE

When asking Denny Bales what he hoped to achieve in opening this new Fine Jewelry Store in the Village Shopping Center, his answer was the following: “The last thing Corpus Christi needed was another Jewelry Store, as a result, our goal was to open a store that was 100% different than any other Jeweler in South Texas.”

Hi, my name is Denny Bales…

This month we’re proud to introduce and feature one of the most talented Artist in South Texas. We’ve always talked about bringing in Fine Art to be seen along with Fine Jewelry but we never seemed to meet up with the right artist. Every time I would see my doctor (Dr Stephen Barth), he would show me these new paintings that his brother in law did. Every portrait was outstanding. So, I arranged a meeting with Jody and invited him to set up an Art Gallery in our new store in the Village Shopping Center.

One of the things I really like about Jody’s work is his attention to detail. Jody is good at drawing anything you could think of… People, cars, dogs and cats, horses and any outdoor scene. You name it, he can take your favorite photo and turn it into a beautiful work of art.

We all remember when family portraits were popular. You can now bring one of your favorite family photos in and Jody will make it a piece of art that can be treasured for generations to come. Come by today and take a tour of Jody’s Fine Art as well as our collection of some the finest jewelry in the Coastal Bend.

You will be glad you did.

Jody has over 200 pieces of Art available with around 50 framed pieces on display throughout the store. He keeps over 100 prints (small, medium and large) available for your perusing as well. All of his art, whether framed or just prints, are available for purchase.

JODY

Bustillos

I was born in Dallas, Texas. At the age of three, I began carrying around a notepad and drawing everything I saw — from clouds to people. When most kids were playing with toys, I was drawing. Over the years, my interests have fluctuated in and out of art and music, up until three years ago, when my wife asked me to draw Jesus. After that, my life changed. I had a moment of spiritual enlightenment, and that convinced me to drop everything I was doing to pursue painting and drawing full-time. Since then, I’ve completed over 200 pieces of art, and I don’t plan on stopping.

3835 S Alameda St. Corpus Christi, TX 78411

361.452.1625

dbestatejewelryandmore.com

AROUND THE BEND / TRENDING

OF THE

Biking Downtown Rediscover the endless fun downtown Corpus Christi has to offer while cruising the streets on free* bikes.

Riding Corpus Christi’s bike share is easy. Bikes are located at several stations intermixed throughout downtown. You’ll need to download the free Zagster Mobile App to access the bikes. Once the bike is unlocked, you’re minutes away from countless dining, shopping, and entertainment destinations. After finishing a ride, simply return the bike to any of the Zagster bike stations, your rental ends and the bike is available for the next person’s adventure.

WHAT WE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT By: Jarred Schuetze Photo by: Brynn Osborn

For more details visit zagster.com/corpuschristi * First hour of riding is free, each additional hour is $3.

Six Downtown Bike Stations to Check Out LA R ETA MA PA R K STAT I O N

P E O P L E S T- H E AD STAT I ON

LAW RE NCE T- H E AD STATION

• H ouse of Rock • Th e Gold F is h • G reen light Coffee

• H arri so n’s La n di n g • Lan d ry ’s S ea f o o d • Se l e n a Sta tu e

• J o e’s Cr a b S h a c k • F u n T i m e Re n ta l s • W h a ta bu r g er by th e Ba y

TH E C OS M OPOL I TAN STAT I O N

SE AWA LL STAT I ON

N. BAY FRONT PARK STATION

• Wat er Street Mar ket • Urb ana M arket + Deli • Rebel Toad Brewing C o.

• B US - B a r U n de r th e S u n • SN OW IE Str eet Ven do r • Art i si an Pa r k

• A r t M u s e u m o f S o u th Texas • Co r p u s C h r i s ti M u s e u m of S c i e n c e a n d H i s to r y • H e r i ta g e Pa r k

N . M E S Q UI T E ST. / P E O P L ES ST. t h ree n e ar by de s t i n at i on s

N . C HAPA R R A L ST. / L AWREN CE ST. t h ree n e ar by de s t i n at i on s

PEO PL ES ST. t hree nearby d e stina tions

N . SHO RELINE BLVD. t hree nearb y d e stina tions

LAWR ENCE ST. th re e ne a rb y d e stina tions

N. S H OR ELINE BLVD. th re e ne a rb y d e stina tions

thebendmag.com

29

AROUND THE BEND / GIVING BACK

“THEY HAVE TAUGHT ME ABOUT STRATEGY IN TENNIS, GOOD MANNERS, AND HOW TO RELATE TO PEOPLE,”

Serving the Community Local organization, Tennis Success, aims to provide underserved students with a safe haven By: Dayna Worchel Photos by: Rachel Benavides

T

ennis Success Executive Director, Jacquelyn Robles Jones, is known to shed a few tears when young people recount how the nonprofit organization improved their lives. “The kids in the program tease me about crying so easily,” says Robles Jones, who has been at the helm of the 18-year-old organization for eight months. Prior to that, she spent 16 years with the Corpus Christi Country Club.

The Tennis Success program, founded in 2000, is based at the HEB Tennis Center on Shely Street and is open to students from ages 4 to 18 who meet the requirements for free or reduced-price school lunches. Kids go to the center to participate, but Tennis Success coaches also travel to some low-income CCISD campuses during the school year.

30 The Bend

“It’s an amazing program. During the school year, we provide a free after-school program in the fall and in the spring with snacks.

In the summer, the kids must pay $10 for two weeks as a part of our sustainability for our grants,” Robles Jones says. The fee covers special educational projects and academic enrichment for the student participants and helps students with scholarships. “We provide scholarships up to $1,000 per semester for up to five years,” she says.

Tennis Success also partners with Be a Champion, a Houston-based nonprofit, to provide lunches during the summer sessions. The organization delivers food daily and provides a refrigerator for food storage. “Sometimes, it’s the only meal the kids get during the day,” says Robles Jones.

Program participants enthusiastically praise the organization that gives them a chance. The Tennis Success team is family to 18-yearold Hailey Carrion, who graduated from Moody High School in June. Speaking fondly of Robles Jones, the young woman says, “I love Jacquelyn...I never thought a program would mean so much to me.”

Carrion, who has dealt with many life challenges, has seen positive results from participating in the organization’s educational enrichment and tennis programs. She has been involved in the program since her sophomore year at Moody High School and credits them with much of her success. “My grades went up, and I am the Tiny Tots Coach. It’s just the right mix of tennis and education,” she says, adding that she loves her paid position coaching 4 to 7 year-olds who participate in Tennis Success.

Celso Gonzales, 17, who graduated from the Miller High School Metro program in June, says he had never played tennis before participating in Tennis Success. He calls the program “a safe haven” that changed his life by bringing out his passion for athletics and introduced him to new friends and adventures. “I was that kid who went to school and came home and played video games and went to sleep,” he says, adding that the Tennis Success educational program has helped him develop leadership skills and aided in his understanding of people.

Both Gonzales and Carrion do volunteer work for Tennis Success as a way to give back to the organization that helped them so much.

Keyla Berlanga, who will be in the seventh grade this fall, says the organization assisted her with homework and study skills. “They have taught me about strategy in tennis, good manners, and how to relate to people,” she says.

By encouraging and empowering low-income youth, Tennis Success helps open more doors to opportunity and happiness in the Coastal Bend. And that is the definition of success.

Contact: 1520 Shely St, Corpus Christi, TX 78404 361-339-3679

thebendmag.com

31

AROUND THE BEND / 5 BEST

Best Public Bathrooms Fun wallpaper, committed themes, and (of course) the proper lighting and mirror for a selfie are all requirements when it comes to picking the best bathrooms around town.

By: Julieta Hernandez Photo by: Brynn Osborn

1. BUS Downtown:

The slick interior of BUS downtown does not stop before their bathrooms. Home of the iconic “girls girls girls” sign, BUS bathrooms are also talked about for their geometric mirrors and stark black and white checkered wall tile. Lighting is great, soap smells great (it’s the foam kind), and it’s a great conversation topic —but also a place for conversation.

702 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

2. NIKO’S Steakhouse:

Local steakhouses have a lot to offer, including Niko’s steakhouse and their classy bathrooms.

A haven for sports fans to flock to, using the restroom at Niko’s includes being able to keep watching the game with it playing in each individual stall. Include this with the long, white-light mirrors and smooth countertop, and it’s hard not to spend time in there watching the game in HD. 5409 Saratoga Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78413

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3. Downtown Visitor Information Center Bathrooms

The iconic architecture of the downtown visitor’s center is what most people will pass by when visiting major landmarks in the city like the Art Museum or the Selena Memorial statue. The men’s and women’s restroom symbols and picturesque slant brings you into a bright yellow-tiled restroom filled with natural light —one of the most pleasant public restroom experiences a person can have when roaming around downtown.

1521 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

4. Eleanor’s Coffee Bar + Market: While Eleanor’s is known for many things, we must not overlook their bathroom. The clean and simple décor make for an inviting space after drinking all that coffee. Natural light floods the room, which means mirror selfies galore. Scroll through Instagram on any given

day and you’re sure to find one or two pictures taken in this bathroom on your timeline.

Their choice of Mrs. Meyer’s soap is just an added bonus.

4231 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412

5. Harbor Playhouse:

Washrooms in the downtown Corpus Christi Harbor Playhouse take you back to 1971’s Grease. The first set of restrooms in the building, which veer off to the side before the concession stand, are complete throwbacks with brightly colored stripes running down the interior, decorating the place like a pair of rollerskates. Just like the rest of the building, its bathrooms feel vintage and classic.

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Alissa Pena Alissa Peña, owner of JalaPeña’s Salsa, turned her mother’s recipe into a business and created a taste of home for chips and salsa connoisseurs.

By: Alexa Alley Photos by: Rachel Benavides

HOW DID YOU GET INTO THE BUSINESS OF MAKING YOUR OWN SALSA?

I’ve been cooking forever and come from a family that loves to cook and entertain. I started focusing on the salsa business after a very successful booth I ran with my mom and sisters at the Radiology and Associates Christmas Posada. My mother’s recipe for what is now known as “Prissy’s Original” was served at the party, and we were sold out within two hours! I think if you make something with fresh, tasty ingredients as well as love and integrity, it comes across in your food and people appreciate it. My mom, Priscilla Wolf, has always been an inspiration to me. I can truly say this business started with her amazing original recipe, and I eventually added more flavors and cooking techniques for my own signature spin.

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WHAT DO YOU FEEL YOUR BUSINESS BRINGS TO OUR COMMUNITY?

Chips and salsa are practically a food group in South Texas. It’s how we start a great meal, what we offer to company in our home, and how we gauge who can really take the heat! Everyone has a ride or die favorite salsa place or recipe, and JalaPeña’s Salsa is my way of creating a little taste of home with the flavors and spices that remind me most of Corpus Christi. I make everything from locally sourced ingredients from the Farmer’s Market, La Michoacana, Fruit King, and my HEB.

FAMILY DENTISTRY COSMETIC DENTISTRY LASER DENTISTRY

I also try to get involved in events and festivals that support our city, kids, downtown scene, and local non-profits. Luckily, my job and amazing tribe of friends and family constantly open doors to new, fun ways to get involved with the city.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS, AND IS THIS A SIDE HOBBY, OR DO YOU WORK ON IT FULL TIME?

This is absolutely a full-time side business!!

I have a full-time job at KIII-TV as an account executive, so I have to work nights and weekends to shop, cook, and sell my salsa. Channel 3 has always been known for supporting local businesses and helping the local economy thrive. JalaPeña’s can be a way for me to do my part. All four flavors (Prissy’s Original, Roasted Tomato, Salsa Verde, and Chipotle Guajillo) are available in 8oz or 16oz jars or available as a flight.

The 32oz or gallon jars are available for parties and events. Orders can be placed through the website.

240 Reliant Dr., Portland, TX 78374 duncandentalstudio.com 361.643.3030

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT FOR THE FUTURE OF YOUR BUSINESS?

Everything! Cooking is my passion and makes me feel like everything I’ve learned from every restaurant I’ve opened or kitchen I’ve cooked in is now being used in my favorite way. I would like to see JalaPeña’s Salsa on the shelves of locally owned businesses and eventually HEB. I’m currently stocking up for my booths at the Que Bueno Taco Fest and the CC Hot Tamale Festival.

My long-term, environmentally-minded goal is to have a jar return discount on all salsas. I also recently launched JalaPeña’s Catering to put my restaurant background to use and offer a full menu of hors d’oeuvres and entrees. I cannot wait to see what happens next! thebendmag.com

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W DO N TOWN

THE

WE DESERVE

36 The Bend

CORPUS CHRISTI’S DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT IS UNVEILING SIX NEW DISTRICTS TO HIGHLIGHT DOWNTOWN’S SPECIALTY AREAS By: Rianna Turner Photo by: Rachel Benavides

F

or many years, the perception of Corpus Christi’s downtown has been on the decline. Fewer people ventured downtown, resulting in lost capital and causing some businesses to close their doors. This perception is unfair, however, and increasingly proving to be untrue. Corpus Christi’s Downtown Management District (DMD) is making sure of it, most recently by following in the footsteps of cities across the country, and establishing various niche districts downtown. Alyssa Barrera, the DMD’s Executive Director, knows how much of an impact these districts can potentially make.

“The overall focus of the project is to create a greater downtown area brand and logo, but the agency is so tuned in with the community,” Barrera said. “We want to make sure to bring everyone along with us in the process.”

THE DISTRICTS

Cities in the United States have relied on neighborhood identity to structure cultural districts for decades — for example, Nashville’s Music Valley or Dallas’s Victory Park. When the name of a place reflects the area’s unique characteristics, more people and businesses are drawn to that area. Cities both large and small create these districts, both to highlight an area’s history or strength and to increase possible economic development.

If a certain place has a name that coincides with its reputation, it’s easier for people to think of that area when considering a future investment. The Marina Arts District will naturally attract artists and small businesses, while the Medical District will attract, well, medicine.

The DMD has employed this concept in their plans for revitalizing Downtown. Instead of a sole downtown area, there are six distinct districts: North Beach, Uptown, the Medical District, the SEA District, Water’s Edge, and the Marina Arts District. According to Barrera, the boundaries of each district were established organically, over time.

The interstate highway created an obvious boundary for the SEA District, which runs to I-37 from the Ship Channel, and is known for sports, entertainment, and arts — hence, SEA. The SEA District is home to the Art Museum of South Texas, the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History, and Whataburger Field. North Beach is north of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel and features the Texas State Aquarium and the USS Lexington Museum.

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The Marina Arts and Uptown Districts are south of I-37 and separated by North Upper Broadway Street. The Marina Arts District is “downtown” to most locals and is best known for ArtWalk, BridgeWalk, and the Downtown Corpus Christi Farmers’ Market. Nueces County Courthouse, City Hall, the Regional Transportation Authority, and Corpus Christi Independent School District offices are on the edge of Uptown, which serves as a business district.

Running from Kinney Street to Buford Street along Water’s Edge, the Water’s Edge District serves as one of the city’s major recreation areas. It is the site of several large festivals and a prime spot for cycling and jogging. The Medical District, which includes Christus Spohn Hospital Shoreline and numerous doctor’s offices and medical facilities, is located south of Buford Street.

THE HISTORY

Corpus Christi has a population of over 300,000, and has had a historic downtown area for decades. Since bustling, classic downtown areas with niche neighborhoods are so popular in city planning, it can leave one searching for an explanation: why hasn’t this come sooner?

38 The Bend

As recent as 2015, city council members were ambivalent regarding the contracting of a Boston-based planning group, Goody Clancy, to develop Plan CC 2035 — a plan that ultimately included the Downtown Area Development Plan (DADP), which was the first update to the DMD’s comprehensive plan since the 1980s. According to the Caller-Times, city council member Carolyn Vaughn expressed her reservations during the deliberations when she asked: “Why did we pick a Boston-based firm, instead of a Texas firm? Because we’re Texas, we’re not Boston — we don’t do things the way they do them up there.”

Pushback and a general lack of willingness to engage with trends in areas residents may not wish to identify with is one possible explanation. However, these changes may be happening relatively late because change, by nature, is gradual. Change also needs to be incited, and it is possible that Alyssa Barrera and her predecessor Terry Sweeney were the people who were destined to incite that change.

Sweeney, the previous Executive Director of the DMD, moved to Corpus from Indianapolis — a city with six well-developed cultural districts which were established in

“Our generation has to be responsible for it and for organizing these amazing assets in a way that is understandable to visitors and future residents. So, that’s why this type of branding — bringing downtown into the format that people are experiencing across the country — is so important.”

1999. His experience led to the rebranding of the 1993 DMD boundary into the Marina Arts District, as well as efficient utilization of the Downtown Reinvestment Zone. This Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone (TIRZ) is an effective economic tool which allows tax-collecting entities in a specific area to cap how much tax revenue they will collect. The remaining revenue is set aside for specific rebuilding and reinvestment initiatives. Reinvestment zones, like the one that encompasses the downtown area, proliferate in most major cities. Houston has 27.

Image prepared by: Goody Clancy, The City of Corpus Christi Downtown Development Plan

thebendmag.com

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THE PURPOSE

This redistricting project is only one of many the DMD oversees.

The office houses various stacks of studies, binders, and pamphlets which detail both the nitty-gritty elements of plans already underway and proposals for new ones. Initiatives already underfoot include a Parking Action Plan to improve the experience of parking downtown; a Comprehensive Wayfinding Plan to make navigating the downtown area simpler for those in cars, on bikes, or afoot; a Traffic Pattern Analysis which will bring about road configuration changes; and the Stronger Vacant Building Ordinance, which is a resolution supported by the DMD to address long-term issues caused by chronically vacant buildings. All of these initiatives will lead to more street lights (especially next to vacant buildings), conversion from one-way streets into two-way streets, and a comprehensive security camera system.

The DMD is also pursuing numerous proposals that may culminate into projects. Some of these include possible collaboration with the area’s universities to place student housing downtown, pursuit of a Pop-Up Retail Incubator Program, growth of the bike share program to 100 bikes, and possible bus service partnerships that could provide shuttle services between downtown districts.

“Terry came down from Indianapolis, and he knew how to use reinvestment zones,” Barrera says. “He shot us ahead light-years.” Local businesses like Urbana Market + Deli and Bar Under the Sun have benefited from the incentive programs driven by the reinvestment zone.

However, the downtown boundary created by a municipal management district — established from I-37 to Kinney and Lower Broadway to the Marina — was rather limiting. To many residents, downtown encompasses much more than that. The current DMD team is making a definitive step forward in this vision by developing the identities of these new districts, and converging the municipal reality of the downtown area with the language the community uses to refer to it.

40 The Bend

These current projects and proposals are centered around the idea of making Corpus Christi’s downtown area a place where people would love to come and stay. The DMD’s plans go beyond convincing residents to spend more time walking around after ArtWalk or stopping by a local business after a picnic on Water’s Edge. They want to enable Corpus residents to engage with well-known, beloved spaces in a way that will convince people to continue investing in those spaces and stay in the area.

“This process and this project are very significant in our evolution: from talking about downtown’s potential to being the downtown we know we deserve,” Barrera said. “I really think the future of our community is dependent upon us taking ownership of our situation and the future of it. If people leave to enjoy the work other cities have done instead of working to make things better here, what do we have? Potential, endless potential, but no one to carry it out.

Our generation has to be responsible for it and for organizing these amazing assets in a way that is understandable to visitors and future residents. So, that’s why this type of branding — bringing downtown into the format that people are experiencing across the country — is so important.”

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STUDENTS WHO SHINE By: Kylie Kinnett Photos by: Jason Page

HOW EIGHT OF THE COASTAL BEND’S BRIGHTEST STUDENTS ARE SHINING A LIGHT FOR THOSE WHO FOLLOW

Who are our future doctors, lawyers, political leaders, and activists? They are the inquisitive kindergarteners who are inspired by science. They are the conscientious sixth graders who value the importance of human and civil rights. They are the tenacious high school freshmen who realize their voices are powerful.

In this piece, we celebrate the new generation of thinkers, movers, and go-getters. We applaud those who choose to make a difference in their community and build a better tomorrow, not only for themselves, but for the world around them. We commend those who go the extra mile in both school and in life. These eight students are trailblazers and give us all something to look forward to when thinking about what the world of tomorrow will look like.

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Chase Cortese Chase Cortese, a recent graduate of Ray High School, definitely has a bright future ahead of him. While maintaing a 4.0 GPA throughout school, he also played on the varsity soccer and football teams. And, as if that wasn’t enough, Cortese also spent the school year traveling back and forth to California for acting auditions and to film a television show, Play by Play.

But this triple threat student doesn’t stop there.

He is also actively engaged in the local charity, Triumph Over Kid Cancer. In fact, he counts the late James Ragan as his role model. Cortese served as the President for TOKC’s Do That One Thing Council, which helps spread awareness about pediatric cancer. “Being recognized by the Ragans is something I will always appreciate,” he says.

He credits time management and determination for getting him through a hectic senior year.

Between the IB Academic Program, varsity sports, and filming Play by Play, he had quite the year. Regardless of how much he has on his plate, Cortese is proud of being an unwavering hard worker. Some of his favorite recognitions include being on the Distinguished Honor Roll and receiving an invitation to present an award at an acting showcase in California.

Cortese knows how important education is and that a good education is necessary to move forward in life, and he believes fortitude, desire, and a strong work ethic will lead to success. This young man has proven those statements to be true by finishing out his senior year strong while juggling multiple projects. Cortese’s path will take him to Occidental College in Los Angeles, California in the fall. He hopes his future will hold more television shows, possibly a movie, and more. “The opportunities are endless,” he says.

Q: How do you think your generation will contribute to the future?

A: Hopefully all these young, colorful minds we have will help make the world a more vibrant and friendly place.

Chase is ready to roll in this print button-up shirt, white tee, blue shorts, and Adidas shoes from Tillys.

46 The Bend

hours and passed the state exam to become a Certified Pharmacy Technician.

If you ask Dykes to describe herself, she would say she is determined. “Whatever goals I have set for myself, I am committed to completing them successfully,” she says.

“No matter the obstacles I may face in my path, I will not let them stop me from achieving what I have planned.” After an especially taxing year, that is one commendable trait to have.

This school year, Dykes was chosen as Senior Class Prom Queen, May’s Student of the Month, and a Shining Star and Honor Graduate. She was also selected for her high school’s Hall of Fame. She actively participated in Student Council and the National Honor Society, played softball for three years, and was involved in the New Health Science Program.

Q: If you could learn one thing, instantly, what would it be?

A: If I could learn one thing instantly it would probably be Physics. I took AP Physics my Junior year of high school and it was the hardest science/math class I’ve ever taken.

Alyssa Dykes Alyssa Dykes just recently walked the stage as a graduate of Rockport-Fulton High School. After a year of trials and tribulations due to Hurricane Harvey, you will still find a smile graced upon Dykes’ face at any given moment. While the storm destroyed both her school and home, Dykes took no breaks. The oldest of four, she stepped up to help her parents with her younger siblings. Being forced to overcome diversity didn’t hold her back. She graduated third in her class with 33 completed college

When she isn’t at school or working, Dykes enjoys spending her free time just relaxing with her friends and family, making the most out of the time she gets to spend with them. “As I have gotten older, I have come to really appreciate the time I get to spend with those I love most,” she says.

As for the future, Dykes will head to the University of Texas at Austin in the fall, where she will major in Biology. Her longterm goal, however, is to attend medical school in order to continue down the path of earning her MD, and eventually, someday owning and managing her own pediatric office. With her passion, smarts, and drive, we have no doubt she will accomplish each of those goals!

Alyssa will hit campus in style with this striped jumper, purse from Tillys along with a trendy Kendra Scott bracelet, necklace, and earrings. thebendmag.com

47

Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics by teaching basic English skills to the children of migrant workers. In addition, she’s been awarded the Presidential Volunteer Gold Service Award for the last two years.

She has a big heart, and helping others is one of her passions. Aside from teaching English to children, she has published several articles promoting the success of young women and spent time in Kenya where she spoke to young girls about empowerment. She has also worked with Maasai tribal children and lectured on the importance of education.

Madison Singh Being reflective is one of Madison Singh’s superpowers. Her keen observation skills allow her to hone in on a situation and find positive ways to bring about change. This quality will help her change the world. Her other superpower is an ardent belief that education opens doors. “Having a vast amount of knowledge can lead to innovation, discoveries, and advancement,” she says.

Singh begins her senior year at Veterans Memorial this fall.

Currently, she is the Valedictorian of her class and President of the National Honor Society. She earned the Presidential Award from the Obama Administration’s White House

Q: Who is a teacher (or faculty/staff member) that has inspired you the most and why?

On top of excelling in school, helping those in need, and inspiring young women around the world, Singh is still your typical 17-year-old girl. She loves hanging out with her friends and playing piano. Next month, she will perform at Carnegie Hall for the fourth time. She also enjoys traveling and learning about various cultures and food.

Singh hopes her peers realize that their voice matters.

“Today, there are so many movements that are started by students,’ she says. “It takes one voice to lead thousands.” We think she just might be that voice for her generation.

A: Every teacher I have had has contributed to where I am today. Whether it be self-dependence or ingenuity, they all have impacted my life.

Maddie shines in this yellow layered top and white jeans from francesca’s, topped with a Kendra Scott necklace, bracelet, and earrings.

48 The Bend

Zaiden Salazar Zaiden Salazar is not your average 9-yearold. This charismatic third grader thrives on helping others. He also believes that staying motivated and keeping a positive attitude has helped him succeed in both academics and athletics.

Salazar sets the bar high whether it’s reading at a sixth-grade level in Library Club or setting records in Running Club. His focus and determination enable him to accomplish whatever he sets out to do. Salazar’s mom is especially proud of his ability to balance work and play.

In addition to Running Club, Salazar participates in the Library, Math, and Technology Clubs, as well as Student Council.

All of these extracurricular activities have transformed him into a well-rounded and outspoken student.

Q: What is one subject in school you would take away and one you would add?

A: I would take away social studies and add computer coding.

Q: If you could learn one thing, instantly, what would it be?

Another quality that helps Salazar excel in the classroom is his willingness to ask for help. When asked what advice he would give to other students, he says, “Listen and pay attention to your teacher. Don’t ever be afraid to ask for help with things you don’t understand.”

A: If I could learn one thing instantly, it would have to be geometry.

While Salazar is no stranger to hitting the books, he sill takes time to let his silly side show. He loves entertaining friends and family with his crazy dance moves, especially the worm!

He also enjoys fishing, playing sports with his dad, and achieving high scores on video games.

Salazar recently finished up a winning third grade year. Some of his favorite awards and recognitions include the Principal’s Award, Runner MVP Award for the Most Improved Runner, and the Fastest Runner Award. This young man is speeding toward a bright future.

Zaiden is wearing classic checkerboard Vans from Journeys paired with a layered blue t-shirt and pale red polo, khakis and, backpack from The Children’s Place.

Reece Perez Reece Perez is one cool guy. This 12-year-old, who completed his first year at Bishop Garriga Middle School this spring, realizes the importance of a good education. He describes school as a really important part of his life.

Perez’s accomplishments include winning the spelling bee three times, participating in the Regional Spelling Bee, placing in the Diocesan Science Fair four times, making the 2017-2018 President’s A-Honor Roll, and being named Junior Master of Ceremonies of his Altar Serving team. However, in his eyes, winning first place in the 2018 4th of July Big Bang Essay Contest and getting to meet Mayor McComb top all his other achievements.

In addition to being a dedicated student, Perez jams out by playing saxophone and drums. Other favorite pastimes include swimming, hanging out with friends, watching movies, and playing with his two dogs, Jack and JJ.

Reece is wearing a navy blue dress shirt, jeans, and gray tennis shoes from Buckle with a bright red JanSport backpack from Journeys. thebendmag.com

49

Perez is persistent, hardworking, and kind. His parents are most proud of his love for others. From organizing a book drive for the Early Bird Reader program to holding a blanket drive for the Mother Teresa Shelter, Perez has always been one to lend a helping hand.

When asked what he thought the key factors to success were, Perez says participation, understanding, and having patience.

He strives to embody all of these qualities in his everyday life. As for future plans, he hopes to attend Yale University, become a Ballistics Expert, and work for the FBI.

Silvia Gonzales Tenacious. That is the word Silvia Gonzales uses when describing herself and it is clear to see why. The recent fifth grade graduate is not messing around when it comes to her goals and ambitions. As she prepares to enter the sixth grade, at Baker Middle School, Gonzales has a pretty clear path laid out for success. Her ultimate goal however, is to one day serve as a Supreme Court Justice due to her love for human and civil rights.

Gonzales’ achievements are many. From all A-Honor Roll since kindergarten and scoring a 100 on both of her fifth grade STAAR tests, to receiving the President’s Award and reading at a college freshman level, there is very little she can’t do once she sets her mind to it.

She is wise well beyond her years and, in fact, we could probably all learn a thing or two from this insightful 11-year-old. When asked her thoughts on the key factors to success she says discipline, commitment, and self-reflection.

“Nothing in life comes without sacrifice,” Gonzales says. “You have to sometimes say no to what you really want to do, in order to focus and finish what has to be done to get you to the next step on where you ultimately want to be.”

Perez ends with a little piece of advice we should always remember. “Be kind, you don’t know what is going on in other people’s lives. Be proud of your work. And, don’t be afraid to be different.”

Perez is definitely on the path to inspiring others and making a difference.

When Gonzales isn’t studying hard or acing tests, she is busy playing on her State Champion U11 Girls’ Soccer team, making slime, and competing on NBC’s whiz kids game show, Genius Junior—where her team made it all the way to the semi-finals and were only defeated by one point!

It might seem like Gonzales is all work, but she knows how important play is. She says she would tell other students her age to remember to have fun. “Try your best, of course—never settle for less, -but also remember you need to have some fun,” she says. And, we couldn’t agree more.

Q: If you could learn one thing, instantly, what would it be?

A: I would choose to be fluent in Spanish language. It’s truly beneficial to be bi-lingual, especially in Spanish, and it would help me in a number of different ways, and also then allow me more time and flexibility to learn another language even, like French or sign language.

50 The Bend

Silvia’s black leggings, white tee, and coordinating sweater are from Buckle with Converse sneakers and Kendra Scott necklace and earrings.

Q: What is one subject in school you would take away and one you would add?

A: If I could take away one class, it would be technology and I would replace it with a cooking class. Mostly because I am terrible at cooking.

Lauren Cavada Lauren Cavada is bright, vivacious, and determined. Her smile brightens any room she walks in to and makes you instantly gravitate towards her.

Staying motivated, honing in on her talents, and using her experiences and knowledge all help her to be successful in whatever it is she sets out to do.

She just finished her seventh-grade year and has accomplished quite a bit. She is an active member of her Girl Scout troop, participates in speech and debate, enjoys sports such as volleyball, kickboxing, and taekwondo, and loves theatre. In fact, her favorite award she has ever received is when she was named “Best Actress” at the UIL One Act Contest where she beat out six other schools in the competition.

When it comes to defining who she really is, Cavada prefers to not put herself in a box. “I don’t fit into any category,” she says. “I like to wear makeup and kickbox, I love to sing and act, but also enjoy watching combat sports. I don’t let labels define who I am as a person. I let my character and morals define me for who I am.”

Her mom is her role model. The sacrifices her mother has made inspire her to strive for success. She also says she never lets a disadvantage stop her from exceeding—instead, she uses it as motivation.

At just 13-years-old, Cavada provided us with some words of wisdom we should all take to heart.

“In our modern society, young people like myself are taught and shown to look and act a certain way and, whether we acknowledge it or not, that is affecting kids’ confidence and self-appreciation in a negative way. So, [we have] to be okay with [ourselves] inside and out.”

Lauren’s comfortable look is from Buckle, including a striped knit top and cream cami, jeans, and a backpack from Journeys.

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51

Q: How do you think your generation will contribute to the future?

A: I think my generation will make significant scientific discoveries and invent better technology.

videos of surgeries and doing online surgery simulations.

Al-Akash, in one word, can be described as ambitious. He is often the first to show up to morning workouts and the last to leave.

He is an exemplary student athlete and often spends his study hall time helping other students with their school work. His skills and dedication on the soccer field translate to his work ethic in both school and on his science fair team.

This year, Al-Akash competed in the Texas Engineering Competition, where he placed first in science and second in math at the regional level and sixth at the state level. He also placed sixth in the UIL Science Fair and first in the Biomedical Engineering in the District and Regional Science Fair, where he then advanced to the International Science Fair. The project he worked on for these fairs was an improved knee replacement. This “smarter knee replacement” can be adjusted if it slips out of alignment using a smartphone application, rather than surgery. This was done in order to reduce the risk of injury to patients. His project was even recognized by the Air Force!

Ibrahim scores with this look from Buckle, including a patterned button-up shirt, faded jeans, and coordinating gray shoes.

52 The Bend

Ibrahim Al-Akash Ibrahim Al-Akash remembers falling in love with both science and soccer at the young age of four. He spends every summer in Jordan with his family and playing soccer with his cousins is a big pastime. With his parents both being doctors, he has always had an interest in science. He enjoys watching

All of these accomplishments have happened in Al-Akash’s first year of high school. Talk about a student who shines! He is ready-set on contributing to the world by becoming a surgeon and helping others through such profession. It might seem like his free time is rather limited; however, he enjoys playing video games and, of course, soccer, when he has the time.

Al-Akash knows just how important education is. “It’s the inspiration to learn something new,” he says. “It is the pathway to careers.” With determination, passion, and perseverance, he is making a mark on the Coastal Bend, and eventually, the world.

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HEALTH BE WELL 56 MEDICAL MATTERS 60 MEET THE DOCTOR

62

What’s Inside Catarina Hassan is a 10th grade student living with the autoimmune disease, Chron’s. However, she hasn’t let that stop her from achieving her goals and chasing her dreams.

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55

HEALTH / BE WELL

. “EVEN WHEN THINGS FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE, MAKE YOURSELF DO THINGS YOU’RE NOT USED TO IN ORDER TO GET OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE.”

not deterred her positive outlook and will to learn.

Catarina loves to teach herself new things. She’s learned how to play the violin, piano, and guitar. She’s also mastered crocheting and crafts little stuffed animals in her spare time. The continuous movement of her hands while crocheting or playing music is both therapeutic and cathartic.

The Will to Thrive A life-altering diagnosis will not stop Catarina Hassan

C

By: Kirby Tello Photos by: Rachel Benavides

atarina Hassan is a 10th-grade student with an undeniable zest for life. She excels in school, enjoys teaching herself new skills, and possesses wisdom beyond her years. Catarina also has Crohn’s, a life-altering chronic autoimmune disease, but she doesn’t let that or anything else hold her back.

Before being diagnosed, Catarina played basketball and baseball, keeping right up there with the boys. However, she began falling ill more frequently and was unable to continue with her active lifestyle. Although Catarina says Crohn’s has changed her a lot, the disorder has

56 The Bend

Her passion for the arts doesn’t stop with music and handicrafts. Drawing is another one of Catarina’s talents. Over the past three years, she has participated in the Art Museum of South Texas’ Visionarios Arts Contest. The contest encourages young people to participate in art and recognizes young artists for their efforts. One of those years, she was named the winner of the competition!

Catarina has achieved so much in spite of the limitations caused by Crohn’s. Her biggest motivator is a love for animals. She says she loves animals because “they are always loyal and loving, they don’t judge you, and they never get mad at you.” Catarina holds these values close to her heart and treats animals, friends, and family with the same respect.

Because of her story, Catarina urges others not to take things for granted. “Don’t let things get you down,” she says. “Even when things feel uncomfortable, make yourself do things you’re not used to in order to get out of your comfort zone.” That is pretty incredible advice from a young lady. Catarina’s mother, Melissa, confirms that her daughter will always be a wise soul despite all of the challenges she endures.

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PROMOTION

Community Builders

H

ere at Braselton Homes, our hard work building beautiful homes and neighborhoods are important, but we also take our commitment to our local community very seriously. We call this commitment Community Building. The most important aspect of our Community Building effort is our support, both financially and with our time, for the kids and schools of Corpus Christi. As the third generation of my family building homes in the Coastal Bend, I know how important our local schools and school children are to the future of our community.

To that end, Braselton Homes has been greatly involved in efforts to support students at West Oso Independent School District. I proudly serve on the Community Advisory Board, and we have sponsored events to help better prepare the students for school. For Michelle and I, one of the highlights of our summer has been taking 50 kids on a “Back to School” clothes shopping spree at J.C. Penny’s.

We are proud to be a supporter of the ECF Community Center. ECF is a non-profit faith-based organization housed in a Westside CCISD school that offers after school tutoring, training, and meals to neighborhood kids.

We support higher education. The Braselton Family and Braselton Homes have endowed two scholarships at Texas A&M University Corpus Christi to give our future leaders the support they need to shine. The scholarships in the College of Business are specifically desighodontics Oral Surgery ned to foster entrepreneurship and leadership for those da Office: Calallen Office: Enclave Office: receive ameda, Ste. A 13725 students Northwest Blvd, Ste.who 270 5525 S. Staples, Ste.them.

A4

risti, TX 78411

Bart Braselton

Corpus Christi, TX 78410

Corpus Christi, TX 78411

However, that isn’t the only college or scholarship organization that we support. The South Texas School of Christian Studies recognized the founders of Braselton Homes, my parents, Fred and Vanessa Braselton, with a Lifetime Achievement Award for their support of scholarships and other Christian ministries. I also was honored when the American G.I Forum recently recognized me for community and scholarship support at their annual dinner.

The importance of the kids and their schools goes to the very core of our mission; when we design a neighborhood and build a community, access to the local school is paramount. Many of our neighborhoods are built within walking distance of their neighborhood school, including Hunter’s Creek near Tuloso- Midway Primary School, the Cottages at the Park near Dawson Elementary and Grant Middle School, and Parkview near Adkins Middle School..

Additionally, the very design of our neighborhoods and home focuses on both the schools and the kids that will live there. When we build a new community, we work to incorporate access to parks, playgrounds, and walking/biking trails.

For instance, Oso View at the Preserve has direct access to the 160-acre Oso Bay Nature Preserve, where families can spend the day at the educational center learning about all of our local wildlife, playing at the playground, or touring the Preserve by bike or on foot. Rancho Vista is built around a Park System and Central Park, featuring a huge playground, two lakes, fountains, and walking trails throughout the entire neighborhood. Our homes are designed with large kids’ bedrooms, upstairs “bonus rooms,” kids’ playrooms, and study nooks, so that boisterous family time and quiet study time are an easy part of everyday living.

We are proud of our Community Building efforts and of our premiere neighborhoods and homes.

Building a better Coastal Bend is what we strive to do.

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.

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 Green Built Initiative, Bay Area Smart Growth, and the Police Foundation. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Development Corporation, the United 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 ECF Community Center, and the Food Bank.

See you in the Neighborhood, Bart Braselton

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HEALTH / MEDICAL MATTERS

What is Dry Drowning, After All? The myth that has spread throughout our national consciousness, and the last of our worries By: Julieta Hernandez

E

xploring this topic with Dr. Kate Hensley, pediatrician at the children’s clinic, we surface the facts: “dry drowning” (sometimes known as “near-drowning” or “secondary drowning”) isn’t an accepted medical term by the American Red Cross, and it doesn’t happen how we think it

would happen.

Dr. Hensley breaks down the myth on her blog post, A Reality Check on Dry Drowning: “Your child is not going to go swimming, swallow some water, have no issues in the water whatsoever, and then suddenly die without warning 4 days later from ‘dry drowning’. I know the stories you’ve been reading, they’re all over my newsfeed too.”

When an infant or toddler is drowning, three things can result: fatal drowning, nonfatal drowning with an injury or illness, or nonfatal drowning without injury or illness. Dr. Hensley reminds us that if a child were to have difficulties after a nonfatal drowning incident, symptoms will show within 4 to 6 hours after drowning happened. You should look out for: persistent coughing, foaming at the mouth, vomiting, and confusion among other abnormal behavior.

The idea that a child can go days without any visible illnesses or symptoms and suddenly die in their sleep a week later after a drowning incident, which is what is known as dry drowning, does not tangibly fall into the

60 The Bend

category of drowning.

In fact, any symptoms that show up after 8 hours of the drowning incident are looked at by medical professionals as separate from the drowning incident.

“We considered eight hours to be outside of what a drowning victim could get sick related to the drowning,” Dr. Hensley said. “After those 8 hours, we know we need to start looking for other causes.”

Those other causes, however, do not rule out infections to the lungs or heart as part of an unwelcome intrusion of fluid in a child or infants body.

This is when a doctor would look for signs of infectious pneumonia, cardiac pathology, spontaneous pneumothorax, etc. But these are not drowning: most of the time, when keeping a steady eye on your child, signs of drowning will be visible and preventable.

The one key, says Dr. Hensley, is actually making sure you are keeping an eye on your child; this is easier said than done, especially with the cunning sneakiness of a toddler. This is why it’s imperative that pool time is always under supervision of an adult. At pool parties, barbeques and the beach, it’s recommended that supervision is divided between sober adults in shifts, keeping the little swimmers at arm’s reach: “touch supervision”.

It can only take a few minutes of negligence for a child to get into some serious trouble.

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HEALTH / MEET THE DOCTOR

“PATIENT CARE IS ALWAYS MY TOP PRIORITY. MY GOAL IS TO PARTNER WITH EACH PATIENT TO MANAGE AND ANTICIPATE THEIR UNIQUE HEALTHCARE NEEDS.”

like bronchoscopes and other critical care procedures.

“If you cannot breathe, nothing else matters. When you have trouble breathing, it lowers your quality of life and overall health,” says Dr. Chakilam.

Dr. Chakilam opened his practice in January 2018. Texas Coastal Bend Pulmonary is a newly established practice serving Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend. He also has hospital privileges at Christus Spohn-Shoreline, Christus Spohn-South, Bay Area, and Corpus Christi Medical-Doctor’s Regional.

Every Breath Matters A local doctor, specializing in Pulmonary Medicine, is helping his patients breath in a better life

D

By: Jordan Regas Photo: Rachel Benavides

r. Ramakrishna Chakilam, M.D. is a Board-Certified Pulmonologist and Critical Care Physician. He is fellowship trained in Pulmonary Medicine and a member of the American College of Chest Physicians. He attended Howard University and University of New Mexico, with a completed residency in Internal Medicine, Pulmonary Medicine, and Critical Care Medicine. After graduation, Dr. Chakilam moved to Corpus Christi, Texas.

Dr. Chakilam treats patients with lung diseases like asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic respiratory failure, emphysema, exercise induced bronchospasm, fungal infections of the lung, granulomatous lung diseases, interstitial lung disease, lung cancer, pneumonia, pulmonary hypertension, pulmonary critically ill patients in Intensive Care Units, and much more. Dr. Chakilam also performs procedures

62 The Bend

He is looking forward to a long career in medicine with continued contributions to the community and his profession. His goal is to collaborate with each patient to anticipate and manage their unique healthcare needs.

“Patient care is always my top priority. My goal is to partner with each patient to manage and anticipate their unique healthcare needs,” he says. “Together we will develop a personal plan to achieve the optimal health we all value. We will closely collaborate on what it takes to stay on the path to wellness.”

Upon finishing his residency in New Mexico, Dr. Chakilam moved to Corpus Christi with his wife and two daughters. He enjoys traveling and spending time with friends and family. He believes it is a privilege to take care of his patients and strives to give everyone the level of care they need to improve their quality of life.

Contact: 5826 Esplanade Drive Suite 304B Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 226-1908

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64 The Bend

HOME & GARDEN OPEN HOUSE 66 SPACES 70 GARDENING 72

What’s Inside The Braslau Family has found a way to have a color palette of cool greys, black, and white while still having a lively home. Their Lamar Park abode is filled with modern designs, contemporary furniture pieces, and a whole lot of love.

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HOME & GARDEN / OPEN HOUSE

66 The Bend

STYLE AND PANACHE IN SHADES OF GRAY The Braslau’s home proves you can have an upbeat, personality packed home with a monochrome color scheme By: Jacqueline Gonzalez Photos by: Jason Page

I

f gray is your favorite color, how do you decorate without winding up with a drab, dreary living space? Blake and Monica Braslau have found the perfect balance for their gorgeous home in the historic Lamar Park neighborhood. Their choice of various gray hues paired with black and white accents dazzle in their spacious, well-lit residence.

Soon to be empty nesters, the Braslaus wanted to downsize to a smaller home; however, they didn’t want just any house. They longed for a house they could remodel, one they couldn’t resist. After two years of searching, they happened upon the ideal home in a thriving neighborhood with a strong sense of community.

Like all power couples, Blake and Monica worked in tandem on their home.

While Blake worked with their contractor, Jamie Dow of Vertical Ventures, on the overall structure and layout of the house, Monica focused on aesthetics and décor. With her trusty Pinterest board, she discovered a multitude of designs that embodied her vision for their new home.

The Braslaus focused on maximizing space with an open floor plan, while still maintaining privacy between rooms. “We really didn’t change much in the house,” says Blake. “Instead, we got rid of the dead space.” With this design concept in mind, they transformed unused space into functional rooms.

The no-frills approach to decorating the living room is modern and minimal, while maintaining an air of sophistication. The furniture and ample lighting make the area comfortable, but the real eye candy is a floor to ceiling tile display complete with a television mount and a fireplace with a cutting-edge design. The high quality, modern, linear look of the fireplace is perfect for a newly renovated home.

The Braslaus removed a wall between the living and family rooms to create a new, open gathering place. Monica also tweaked the floor plan to convert the master bedroom into a master bathroom with a cozy and conveniently located mini gym. The original dining room became the new master bedroom. In adthebendmag.com

67

dition, the couple expanded a small closet into a spacious, well-organized, walk-in closet.

Family photos adorn every wall in the hallways leading toward the bedrooms. Monica calls the display “The Wall of Fame.� Monica had a similar gallery in her previous home, but the frames were in different colors, shapes, and sizes. This time, she purchased multiples of the same frame to achieve a more cohesive design. Creativity and decor are still at the forefront with each frame hung either vertically or horizontally. The gray walls act as a stage on which the precious black-framed family memories perform.

An impressive kitchen serves as the heart of the home. The Braslaus love people, cooking, and eating; so, they wanted a kitchen where they could chat while preparing meals. Monica enlisted the help of her nephew, Sam Ferris of Tukasa, to find a backsplash with a wow factor. Much to her delight, he came up with a geometric print in a soft gray with white accents, providing a contemporary touch to the professional grade kitchen. White counters and cabinets keep the space feeling fresh, 68 The Bend

“WE REALLY DIDN’T CHANGE MUCH IN THE HOUSE,” SAYS BLAKE. “INSTEAD, WE GOT RID OF THE DEAD SPACE.”

and the island, also created by Jamie Dow, is complete with a small fridge for beverages, a compact trash bin, a pullout microwave drawer, and a hidden compartment holding a table for a standing mixer. All the kitchen features add up to an excellent culinary entertainment center that beckons guests in for dinner.

A “spool,” otherwise known as a “spa pool” sits front and center in their backyard. With a variety of seating options and vintage style Edison bulbs hung from the custom-built pergola, this intimate and cozy space is perfect for outdoor entertaining.

Monica also sprinkles uplifting, spiritual touches throughout her home. Her message board, located near the kitchen and easily visible to guests, is the most prominent piece.

These decorative and inspirational additions make the Braslaus’ home truly welcoming and comfortable.

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HOME & GARDEN / SPACES

Throw Some Shade Curate the perfect mood for your space by choosing the right lamp style

L

By: Jo Anne Howell Photos by: Rachel Benavides

ighting is one of the most important aspects of decorating.

Adding just enough light to any space creates a subtle glow next to furnishings and sets the desired mood. The perfect lighting enhances your décor and transforms an ordinary house into a welcoming home.

Lamps are an easy way to accessorize any room. They not only serve a functional purpose but also jazz up any spot without overpowering the rest of the décor. Available in an array of sizes, shapes, colors, patterns, and textures, lamps can add an extra decorative touch to any area of your home.

Short lamps are perfect for tall cabinets, small tables, and desks. Taller table lamps, (30”-32”) are a good size for nightstands because the light casts downward for reading. This size is also best for sideboards or next to sofas and chair tables. Pro tip: two lamps are preferred on sideboards to create balance and symmetry.

Let your light shine by using lamps to beautify your living space!

Thank you to Alexis Hunter Interiors for the lamp insight and for helping me style this feature.

70 The Bend

Proton therapy cancer treatment is less toxic with fewer side effects, research shows.

STEVEN J. FRANK, MD Research conducted at The University of Texas MD Anderson Proton Therapy Center shows that proton therapy treatment can have fewer negative side effects than traditional radiation, reducing toxicity and the need for feeding tubes in throat cancer (oropharyngeal carcinoma) patients by up to 50 percent.

Unlike traditional radiation, proton therapy is especially well-suited for patients with the most complicated tumors. Layer by layer, it precisely paints protons onto difficult-to-reach tumors in the head and neck, including the base of the tongue and tonsils, sparing surrounding healthy tissue from damage.

Sparing healthy tissue in this way produces important quality of life outcomes as it preserves neurocognitive function, swallowing ability, vision, hearing, taste and speech.

Other benefits may include fewer and less intense side effects such as vomiting, nausea, hearing problems, and inflammation and ulceration of the digestive tract. Patients can usually maintain their quality of life, and many can return to work the same day as treatment.

For these reasons, many patients choose proton therapy over conventional radiation.

If you would like more information about the MD Anderson Proton Therapy Center, please call 1-866-632-4782 or visit us at MDAndersonProton.com/HeadAndNeck

PRP FOR HAIR GROWTH Triggers and maintains the growth phase Increases blood supply to the follicle Increases shaft size (thickness) Controls hair growth cycle Decreases hair loss

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HOME & GARDEN / GARDENING

The Sweetest

Taste of Summer Tips for knowing when a watermelon is ripe By: Justin Butts Photo by: Rachel Benavides

W

atermelons are the highlight of a late summer garden.

Watermelons are sweet, but they are not technically a fruit. Melons are cucurbits, the same family as pumpkins, squash, and cucumbers. They grow lush on long vines.

Watermelons are native to the hot, humid fields of Africa. Spaniards brought the first melons to the New World to plant in Mexico in the 1520s.

Those Spanish melon seeds entered the vast and complex trading network of the Native Americans of North America. Watermelons were soon being cultivated by tribes all the way into Canada. When English explorers arrived in New England just a hundred years later, watermelons grew so well they believed melons were actually native to America, rather than a recently introduced plant.

TIPS FOR GROWING WATERMELONS Watermelons can be difficult to grow. A lot can happen in the 120 long days required for them to ripen. A heavy rain can cause melons to split.

Deer and raccoons are notorious for crushing and eating melons in the last days before they ripen.

When melons are ripe, the stem becomes brittle and easily falls away. For maximum sweetness, let melons fully ripen in the field. The sweetness

72 The Bend

comes from potassium in the soil. Potassium unlocks the sugar molecules in the melon. The best source of potassium for your garden is wood ash from native trees, such as live oak or mesquite.

HOW TO TELL WHEN A WATERMELON IS RIPE A ripe watermelon is a deep, rich, green color all the way around. A whitish color at one end means the melon has not fully ripened.

A good melon should have a yellow or cream-colored spot where it rested on the ground while ripening. If there is no yellow spot, the melon was likely picked unripe from a factory farm and shipped to a supermarket to finish ripening.

Thumping the melon should give a hollow sound, which means plenty of water inside. Water conducts the sound of the thump better, while a fleshy and unripe melon mutes the thump. The melon should be firm and heavy for its size.

BEST WATERMELON VARIETIES The best large watermelon varieties are Jubilee, Black Diamond, and Allsweet. On our farm, we prefer small, personal-sized melons (easier to grow, more fruit per vine). Our favorites are Japanese CreamFleshed Suika, Sugar Baby, and Black Tail Mountain. Â

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74 The Bend

OUT & ABOUT ARTS & CULTURE 76 CELEBRATION 78 DATEBOOK 80 SOCIAL HOUR 82

What’s Inside The Dolson sisters have a love for all things local. Because of this, they decided to create a subscription box filled with local goods that gets delivered straight to your door each month.

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OUT & ABOUT / ARTS & CULTURE

Our Own Local Bliss The best things about Corpus Christi in one little box By: Julieta Hernandez Photos contributed by:Rachel Benavides

T

he Corpus Christi Blissbox was born from a dilemma. Sara Dolson and her sister, Christine Powell, preferred to shop locally, but too often overflowing schedules interfered with attending market days or taking the time to check out independent businesses.

Dolson says, “I wanted to support local, but sometimes it’s kind of hard.

Like when you’re trying to be fast-paced, you just want to go to Starbucks.”

Dolson described it as a “light bulb moment” when she came up with the idea of bringing local products straight to residents’ doorsteps.

What better way to endorse shopping locally than the CC Bliss Box, a subscription-based assortment of Corpus Christi originals?

Starting up involved a hefty commitment from both sisters who were already overwhelmed with school and work obligations. They scouted

76 The Bend

out vendors and artists, distributed flyers, and talked to people in the marketplace. The sisters soon went from being too busy for each other to being way too busy together.

Sara and Christine had plenty of enthusiastic vendors on board, but they wondered if people would actually buy the box. Their website launched on November 23, 2017, which turned out to be an unforgettable Thanksgiving Day. Every time a new subscriber signed up, Sara’s phone would ping with a notification.

“I was like, ‘How many now? How many now??’” Powell laughs. “Everyone was asking.”

The sisters were pleasantly surprised when the number of subscribers reached well over 80. That was much more than expected. Then, the real fun began.

“I WANTED TO SUPPORT LOCAL, BUT SOMETIMES IT’S KIND OF HARD. LIKE WHEN YOU’RE TRYING TO BE FAST-PACED, YOU JUST WANT TO GO TO STARBUCKS.”

The sisters planned the boxes, contacted vendors, estimated how many items were needed, and quoted a price. With plenty of forethought and a hint of spontaneity, themes were chosen for the rest of the year. Next, it was time to pick out items that matched the theme. To preserve the element of surprise, Dolson and Powell decided not to reveal the boxes’ contents before they were sent out.

That way, customers could be delighted with something new that they might not have thought of trying before.

Each month a Bliss Box subscriber receives a gorgeous, theme-based assortment of different products, all sourced here in the Coastal Bend. Local artists design the theme-coordinated cover art for each month’s box. For every box that goes out, a dollar is donated to a local charity. Occasionally, the cover artist has decided the monthly charity choices, which are based on the sisters’ passions.

Both sisters are grounded in the values that influence where and how they shop, and this is reflected in the contents of each monthly box. The sisters have followed a vegan lifestyle

for over ten years, which is why food products in the boxes will always be vegan. Mindful of ecological issues, the sisters are searching for a local source of packing material which Powell calls “the fluff.” “Yeah, we even try to get 100% recycled fluff,” says Dolson.

Every month, the sisters sit in the “Bliss Box room” at Dolson’s house to build the boxes, neatly arrange the products inside, and make sure every box is identical. Since both sisters juggle other responsibilities, they fit the whole packing process into one night. The next morning, Dolson ships the boxes, while recalling all the “Bliss Box drama” she and her sister joked about the night before.

The abundance of local products, food, and talent in Corpus Christi has boomed significantly. Like our culture, the sisters’ business continues to grow. Both of these enterprising young women strongly believe that sourcing locally is not only good for our planet but also for our neighborhoods. Each dollar spent at a Coastal Bend business helps independent, entrepreneurial merchants thrive.

Contact: ccblissbox.com

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OUT & ABOUT / CELEBRATION

From the Coast to the Hill Country After Hurricane Harvey hit the Coastal Bend, this couple’s wedding plans took a quick change of course

T

By: JoAnne Howell Photos by: Heidi Rae Photography

his couple has a love for Port Aransas and the Coast—a surf loving groom and a beach babe bride. After months of planning a beautiful and elegant coastal destination wedding, Hurricane Harvey had other plans. The venue was damaged, vendors were lost, and hotels and cell service were not available to guests traveling from far away.

happen as well. The venue was gracious and accommodating as all the guests had to re-book lodging last minute

Overflowing greenery and white floral made for the perfect accent to the wood tables and chairs. Sand colored silk linTwo weeks out from the big day, the wedding had to move away from ens brought the coast to the Hill Country. the Coastal Bend.

Guests left with jars of sea salt as a reminder to come catch a wave soon.

As the Wedding Planner, I had to reroute the entire event. A location in The Hill Country in Austin was surprisingly available and plans were So, here’s to a patient and roll-with-theset to redirect at a moment’s notice. punches kind of couple. This wedding day was a huge success, despite hurried plans A travel day was made to inspect the new venue. Working hard to pre- and a hurricane of emotions, because of serve the invoices of local Coastal Bend vendors, we made arrange- a lot of understanding and a whole lot of ments for most of the vendors to travel to Austin to provide their ser- love. vices. A few vendors in Austin stepped up to the plate to make the event

78 The Bend

EVENT DETAILS: WEDDING PLANNING AND DESIGN JoAnne Howell Oh Goodie Designs+Event VENUE AND CATERING The Omni Barton Springs FLORAL The Blossom Shop DECOR LUXE Event Decor DASHESsurf-loving & beach-babe

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OUT & ABOUT / DATEBOOK

Mark Your Calendar AUGUST DATEBOOK

ARTS

Footloose at the Aurora Arts Theatre July 13th – August 25th The Aurora Arts Theatre’s late-summer show is Footloose! Set aside one weekend night to spend time in the town of Bomont with a cast of crazy kids. You might even get the urge to dance.

Tickets can be purchased on the Aurora Arts Theatre website, or by calling the theatre at (361) 815-9700.

5635 Everhart Rd., Corpus Christi, Texas 78411, auroraartstheatre.com

CHARITY

Benefit Bazaar at Bar Under the Sun August 4th Bar Under the Sun (BUS) is holding a bazaar to benefit both Period Corpus Christi and Corpus Christi Maternal Mental Health Coalition.

Period Corpus Christi is a chapter of a national organization that celebrates menstrual hygiene and provides pads and tampons to local shelters.

The Corpus Christi Maternal Mental Health Coalition offers support and resources to women struggling with prenatal mood and anxiety disorders. BUS will be selling gently used clothes and home goods to benefit these influential local organizations!

702 N Chaparral St., Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 80 The Bend

COMMUNITY

Town Hall with Senate Candidate Beto O’Rourke August 8th Come by The Valencia to hear and chat with Beto O’Rourke, a candidate for one of Texas’ two United States Senate seats! He’s been to Corpus Christi before — and all of Texas’ other 253 counties — but this might be one of the last chances to ask a Senate candidate questions in person before midterm elections in November.

The Valencia, 6110 Ayers St., Corpus Christi, Texas 78415

COMMUNITY

4th Annual Reels for Heels Fishing Tournament August 17th & 18th This local fishing tournament is not only a fun outing for people who like spending time on the water, but it benefits a great cause! All proceeds from the tournament benefit Dress for Success Corpus Christi, an organization that helps provide workforce development programs and services to the Coastal Bend. Come out to compete, and stay to help those in need!

Bluff’s Landing, 4242 Laguna Shores Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78418

FITNESS

Glow the Distance 5K for CASA August 18th This colorful 5K will benefit Brush Country CASA. It will take place in Kingsville’s Dick Kleberg Park, and will be complete with plenty of color powder and family fun! The run will have professional timing and results, and there will be a separate race for kids!

Dick Kleberg Park, 501 E Escondido Rd., Kingsville, TX 78364

ARTS

GenX Summer Tour at Concrete Street Amphitheater August 21st The GenX rock crossover summer tour is coming to Concrete Street! The bands that will be performing include Buckcherry, P.O.D., and Alien Ant Farm. Tickets are available at Concrete Street’s website, or via Ticketmaster.

Concrete Street Ampitheater, 700 Concrete St., Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

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OUT & ABOUT / SOCIAL HOUR

2ND ANNUAL PRIDE PARADE Photos by: Rachel Benavides

1. Vange Aguirre, Rocio Posada, Avls Solecito & JC Alvarado

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2. Celeste De León, Zoë Rhodes, Cameron Rhodes & Rianna Kirkham 3. Sarah Lydia & Morgan Johnson 4. Karin, Jessica, Maria, Brianna, Courtney & Victoria 5. Jeremiah Jimenez, Luis Villarreal & Freddie Obregón

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6. Bill, Kathryn & Mereditha 7. Theresa Uchimori, Crystal Aguilar, Shannon Silvernow, Karla Brown & Patricia Anderson

82 The Bend

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OUT & ABOUT / SOCIAL HOUR

artRAGEOUS 2018: COWBOY COSMONAUT Photos by: Rachel Benavides

1. Marcos & Natalie Flores

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84 The Bend

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86 The Bend

CUISINE FARM TO TABLE

89

THE DRINK 96 DINING GUIDE 99 THE DISH 104

What’s Inside There are plenty of local solutions to the global problem of food waste. These recipes begin with sustainable farming and fishing and end with delicious meals in your own home.

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Fresh. Fast. Flavorful.

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CUISINE / FARM TO TABLE

SUSTAINABLE

EATING Sustainable Recipes: A Delicious Way to Help the Planet

By: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos by: Rachel Benavides

F

ood waste is a global problem with a local

This soup is more formula than recipe. You can replace

solution. Food waste costs billions of dol-

any of the vegetables and herbs with what you have on

lars each year in lost resources and land-

hand. The flavor combinations are endless. And we

fills. Wasting food means losing flavors.

find that veggies past their prime actually add flavor

A UN report estimates that $750B of food is wasted across the globe each year. The nutritional or regen-

Panzanella may be one of the oldest food-saving rec-

erative (in compost) value of this food is lost as it rots

ipes in history. Stale bread and overripe tomatoes go

in expensive landfills. It is estimated that more than a

together so well, it’s almost as if this dish was invented

quarter of arable farmland worldwide is growing food

by nature.

that is ultimately wasted.

There is much we can easily do to eliminate food waste.

Roughly 40 percent of this food waste occurs in homes.

We can source our ingredients locally. We can also

That means families like yours and ours can solve it to-

use those ingredients more thoughtfully and creative-

gether—and save money and eat better while doing it!

ly. Turn carrot and radish tops into amazing pesto.

Sustainable eating begins with sustainable farming and fishing. Shop from local suppliers not just to save the planet, but because the ingredients are so incredibly

90 The Bend

and depth.

Transform onion skins and turnip peels into vegetable broth. Elevate leftovers into something new and beautiful, instead of a lukewarm has-been.

good. Once you have these exceptional ingredients in

Doing good for the planet has never been so delicious.

your kitchen, stretch them as far as you can with sus-

Save money, reduce waste, and maximize flavor with

tainable recipes.

these easy and sustainable recipes.

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PANZANELLA Serves 4 Prep Time: 25 minutes INGREDIENTS: 4 cups stale French bread, cubed 2 cups tomatoes, roughly diced Optional: 2 cucumbers, cubed ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 1 cup basil, stems removed, chiffonade 1 tsp salt 1 tsp cracked pepper DIRECTIONS: In a large bowl, combine bread, tomatoes, (and cucumbers if using), and basil. Drizzle bread mixture with olive oil while tossing to distribute evenly over bread. Season with salt and pepper and toss salad once more. Serve at room temperature.

SUSTAINABLE (KITCHEN SINK) SOUP

2 tsp salt

Makes about 3-4 quarts

¾ tsp poultry seasoning

Prep time: 10 minutes

½ tsp thyme

Cook time: 35 minutes

¼ tsp nutmeg

INGREDIENTS:

DIRECTIONS:

2 tbsp butter

In a 6-quart pot, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Cook onions in oil mixture until fragrant, about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook an additional minute. Toss in remaining vegetables and any cheese rinds you have on hand, and fill pot with enough chicken stock until vegetables are mostly submerged. Increase the temperature to high heat until mixture boils, decreasing heat as necessary to prevent boiling over. Continue to cook the soup on a full boil, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender.

2 tbsp olive oil 1 large onion, sliced 3 garlic cloves 4 russet potatoes, peeled and roughly chopped 3 cups or so of any vegetables past their prime; including but not limited to: greens, lettuce, cabbage, carrots, beans, peas, beets, turnips, radishes, corn, celery, peppers, artichokes, broccoli, etc.

Optional: hard cheese rinds 5-6 cups chicken stock (enough to mostly cover vegetables) 1 cup heavy cream 2 bay leaves

92 The Bend

1 tsp cayenne pepper

Remove soup from heat. In a small pot, heat cream over medium low heat until a few bubbles start to emerge. Add warm cream to vegetable soup. Using a hand blender, puree the soup until smooth. Add more broth if soup is too thick for your liking. Serve hot with a crusty bread.

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classic rock 104.5, edwards law firm & sames kingsville present

the rock & ride music festival featuring

live music all day, food trucks, vendor village, beer, motorcycle displays saturday, september 8th

12 noon - 1opm free admission water’s edge park on corpus christi bay

www.classicrock1045.com for information 94 The Bend

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CUISINE / THE DRINK

A Green Light to the South Side Their new space is innovative and delicious

G

By: Kirby Tello Photos by: Rachel Benavides

reen Light Coffee’s second location is now open on Corpus Christi’s south side. If you’ve been to their downtown shop, you know they do cool, hip coffee house vibes extremely well. They have already set the bar high for the best coffee shop in town, and their new south side digs raise the stakes even higher.

Their rich, dark color scheme continues in the eclectic décor of the freshly finished space. If you appreciate modern and eccentric design, the new spot will have you wanting to move right in. Strategically placed lighting provides the ideal ambiance for studying, working, or lounging and hanging out with friends.

Along with Green Light Coffee classics, like Sarah’s Sweet Tea and their signature cold brew, there is a new and expanded menu available on the south side. The unique selection of tea beverages is delightful. The lavender matcha tea is especially light, aromatic, and delicious. Watching it being made is a beautiful experience.

There is no shortage of innovation at Green Light Coffee. They have pushed the envelope with their latest creation, the House Hot Choco-

96 The Bend

late. Listed on the menu as “coming soon,” the House Hot Chocolate is made with espresso and the option to add a cotton candy topper. If you’d rather get back to the basics, Green Light’s take on the classic latte is superb. This bold espresso’s taste explodes with a big jolt of caffeine and tons of flavor notes.

Green Light’s new food menu includes everything from gourmet toast and pastries to grab and go quick bites. I tried the Avocado Dukkha toast, which has an exciting combination of avocado and culture-rich seasonings like coriander, cumin, thyme, and other sweet, hot, and savory herbs.

The delectable set of beverages and eats along with the warm, inviting atmosphere will make you want to relax here all-day long. Stop by the new Green Light Coffee on the south side and prepare to be amazed.

Contact: 7426 S Staples St. Corpus Christi, TX 78413

ST CE R RT OK IFI E E D

Moving with Parkinson’s The biggest challenges faced by those living with Parkinson’s disease are movement, balance, speech, and depression. Staying physically active when newly diagnosed with the disease may help to address these challenges.

Some enjoyable ways to stay active include: • Couples dancing, like the tango

• Water aerobics

• Boxing classes

• Walking

• Tai chi

• Hiking

• Yoga The key is to do activities that challenge the heart and lungs. Choose exercises that continuously change tempo, activity, and direction so that your body can be constantly moving and shifting in different ways.

Learn more about Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital’s Parkinson’s disease rehabilitation program at 361-906-3700.

CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM

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5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414 • ph: 361.906.3700

Locally sponsored by

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98 The Bend

Dining

Guide Padre Island

Outdoor dining

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

THE EXCHANGE $$ From the floor to the ceiling, the walls, to your mind, and even right down to your palate, visiting The Exchange brings a sense of “home” to a downtown experience.

224 N. Mesquite St, (361) 414-9788, theexchangecc.com

HAMLIN PHARMACY & FOUNTAIN $ The last Soda Fountain in Corpus Christi, TX! Although they’ve expanded and changed over the many years, their old fashioned values and friendly service has remained the same. 3801 S Staples St, (361) 853-7303, Hamlinpharmacy.com

Port Aransas

IRIE’S ISLAND FOOD $

Rockport

Live music

THE GRILLE $

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

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

MACDADDY’S FAMILY KITCHEN $$

THE GROOVE $$

Serves BBQ, Fried Chicken & Seafood. Big tables for big groups, they’ll also deliver!

118 Beach St,(361) 749-2271 Macdaddysfamilykitchen.com

PADRE ISLAND BURGER COMPANY $$ Burgers, burgers, and burgers!

Build it yourself or choose from their handcrafted menu.

11878 TX-361, (361) 949-3490, Padreislandburgercompany.com

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 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, thepostlamarpark. com

TOWN & COUNTRY CAFÉ $ SURFSIDE SANDWICH SHOPPE $ Dine inside or outside on the patio, and enjoy their large assortment of sandwiches and sides or have a nice cold beverage. Don’t forget the homemade desserts!

15113 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0505, surfsidesandwichshoppe.com

This down-to-earth diner 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

Corpus Christi

shows through from the dishes to the sushi bar.

4650 Corona Dr, (361) 808-8881, Facebook.com/imperialcafe

BARBEQUE HOEGEMEYER’S BBQ $$ Smoked fresh barbeque on a strong German heritage background and a satisfaction for something unique. South Texas barbeque that comes from the heart. 711 Concrete St, (361) 8844227, Hoegemeyers.com

MIKE COTTEN’S BBQ $$

Owned and operated by 3rd generation BBQ restaurant owners. They mesquite smoke the finest meats available and strive to provide the best food and service to their customers. 1702 US Hwy 181, (361) 704-6249, 15013 Northwest Blvd, (361) 933-0143, mikecottensbbq.com

BAR & GRILL BOATHOUSE BAR & GRILL $$ The best thing about the Boathouse Bar & Grill is that there’s something for everyone; a mouthwatering menu, 4 full bars with HDTVs, waterfront patio dining, friendly service, and a fun, relaxing atmosphere. 15241 Leeward Dr, (361) 589-9601, Boathousepadreisland.com

THE BLUE CLOVE $$ Indulge in the art of food with The Blue Cove. Family owned and served with love, this quaint little place will soon become your go-to spot for a weekend bite.

1945 Horne Rd, (361) 855-2927, facebook.com/TheBlueClove

THE GLASS PAVILION $$ Casual hotel eatery offering simple American mains and views of the sea. Did we mention they also offer a breakfast buffet? Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! 2nd Floor Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 8871600, Omnihotels.com

BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE $$ AKA SUSHI $$ 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 facebook.com/akasushidowntowncc

SANG’S IMPERIAL CAFÉ $$ Culturally dynamic décor brings an international ambiance to the atmosphere. Their commitment to the healthiest and freshest food

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 a 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

$ = Under $10 $$ = Mostly $10 - $20 $$$ = $20 and up thebendmag.com

99

CUISINE / DINING GUIDE FINS GRILL AND ICEHOUSE $$ For the past 11 years, they’ve featured fresh seafood, 1/2 lb Angus beef burgers & chicken.

Full bar and you “You Hook ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” for the fisherman.

420 West Cotter, (361) 749-8646, Finsgrillandicehouse.com

STINGRAY’S TAPHOUSE AND GRILL $$ An industrial-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

THE BREWERY $$ Brick oven pizza, pub food & burgers sound good? How about a fresh brewed-in-house beer? 429 Alister St, (361) 749- 2739, Portaransasbrewery.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

FILLINGOOD BAKERY $ With fresh baked goods made in house, they make breakfast and lunch a delight!

3819 S Alameda St., (361) 225-4663, fillingoodbakery.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

HULA PEACH FRUIT HUB & CAFE $ This locally owned tropical themed café, sources the finest produce and is committed to quality and freshness. 3823 S Staples, (361) 334-3773, Facebook.com/hulapeach

JB’S GERMAN BAKERY $ Committed to maintaining the highest German standard, every product is handmade following age-old German traditions and recipes. There are no short-cuts at JB’s. 15137 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-5474, Jbsgermanbakery.com

SUGARBAKERS $ Great cuisine with a French and European influence. They use locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible with mostly everything

100 The Bend

made from scratch.

2766 Santa Fe St, (361) 884-9541, Sugarbakerscc.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

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.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

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, Bellinostexas.com

PADRE PIZZERIA $ For over 15 years, their famous Padre pizza dough is handmade, hand-tossed and prepared daily. 14493 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0787, Padrepizzeria.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

TRATTORIA TADDEI $$ The chef’s recipes and experience, all with a genuine Italian flavor, come down from his home region’s authentic traditional cuisine personally passed from generation to generation over many centuries.

920 Louisiana Ave, (361) 884-4400, Trattoriataddei.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

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 Indo-Pakistani specialties. 7009 S Staples #103, (361) 946-9834, Gingercafecc.com

PERUVIAN 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

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

SEAFOOD

HOUSE OF ROCK $

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

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. Entrées are delicious Italian culture on a plate. 128 N Mesquite St, (361) 883-3773, 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. Plus, all the crusts and sauces are made in house.

617 Mesquite St, (361) 882-7499, Eatpizzadowntown.com

BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL $$$

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, they offer 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

LOCALLY OWNED-AND-OPERATED FOR OVER 14 YEARS BEFORE

AFTER

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361.991.7791 thebendmag.com

101

CUISINE

AS BR EATHTAK ING AS

THE VIEW.

Taste the best of the Texas Coast at the famous Republic of Texas Bar and Grill. Located on the 20th floor of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, this multi-level steakhouse offers an award-winning wine list, tempting wild game, seafood and prime beef all while taking in the panoramic views of the Corpus Christi bay.

OMNIHOTELS.COM 361-886-3515

CUISINE / DINING GUIDE HARRISON’S LANDING $$ Tavern on the Bay at Harrison’s Landing is Corpus Christi’s newest outdoor restaurant and 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 & 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

LAGUNA REEF $$ Bring in your own catch straight from your boat, or order off their tasteful menu! With excellent views of the marina, family owners & operators, Laguna Reef is the place to be. 4242 Laguna Shores Rd, (361) 937-2600, Bluffslanding.com/restaurant.php

LANCE'S 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

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

LIBERTY HALL $$ Herbs and vegetables grown on site, your dining experience will be unforgettable!

106 E. Cotter, (361) 749-4888 facebook.com/LibertyHallPortA

LISABELLA’S BISTRO $$$ Casual coastal elegance with a family-friendly setting. The menu boasts a remarkable gourmet twist to your favorite fare, and a full bar that goes beyond just ordinary. The mermaids may even share their secrets.

5009 Hwy 361, (361) 749-4222, Cinnamonshore.com

ROCK & ROLLS SUSHI LOUNGE $$ At Rock & Rolls, 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) 949-1110, Rockandrollssushi.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 patties. 14254 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, seafoodandspaghettiworks.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

STEAKHOUSE KATZ 21 $$$ Sets the standard for premier fine dining experience. Prime steakhouse specializes in dryaged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood.

5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, Katz21.com

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) 993-0777, Thai-cottage.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 Farmers' Market creating a constantly eclectic seasonal menu, where guests can choose to sit indoor and outdoor. 337 N Alister St, (361) 749-9277, Facebook/The-PhoenixRestaurant-and-Bar

TROUT STREET BAR & GRILL $$$ Cajun-inspired seafood in an airy environment 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

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR $$ BKK is brining a modern twist to the traditional Thai dishes. Their menu is filled with tasty items you are sure to love. 3850 S Alameda, Ste. 27, (361) 334-0857, bkkthaikitchenbar.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, Vietnam-restaurant.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

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

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103

CUISINE / THE DISH

A Fast-Casual Sushi Fix Our newest neighbor in the Water Street Market is serving up quick, fresh fish

T

By: Rianna Turner Photos by: Rachel Benavides

here are a plethora of reasons why The Bend loves being located in the Water Street Market. It’s a recognizable hub of activity in the middle of downtown Corpus Christi, in close proximity to friends at the Caller-Times, decision-makers at the Downtown Management District, the bright waters of the bay front, and local establishments old and new. Recently, the people behind Corpus Christi’s well-established Water Street Oyster Bar opened a new restaurant right next door to our offices: The Water Street Sushi Room.

The Sushi Room is a fast-casual sushi counter that offers sushi rolls and poke bowls, among other related goods, like sashimi and cold beer. The laid-back, coastal atmosphere provides a breath of fresh air — or, a bite of fresh fish — as a break in the middle of the work day.

“There are two reasons why we established the Sushi Room,” Richard Lomax, the Director of Operations at Water Street Restaurants, said.

“We had the talent and commitment to quality, and a lot of the options in the area are heavy. People are increasingly more health-conscious, and we weren’t servicing guests who wanted a lighter, quick meal.”

104 The Bend

Poke is a current, trendy option for a healthy meal, and the Sushi Room truly delivers, offering five different poke bowls that can be served on either rice or kale. For those who are vegetarian, the Happy Hippie bowl is fish-free, with various veggies, avocado, and walnuts topped with a sesame ginger vinaigrette. A favorite in The Bend’s office is the Tuna Caliente bowl — basically a poke version of a spicy tuna roll, with ginger, jalapeño, and avocado.

Newcomers to the Sushi Room might be confused at the lack of downstairs seating and counter service, but that’s precisely part of the point.

The Sushi Room is intended to emphasize a quick, healthy eating experience. Many local sushi restaurants fulfill the need for a sit-down dinner. The Sushi Room’s fast service is conducive to a healthy lunch to-go, or a quick stop for dinner at one of their upstairs tables before roaming downtown. Maybe next time you stop by for a bowl, you’ll run into a member of The Bend’s team on their lunch break.

Contact: 309 N. Water Street Ste. B, Corpus Christi, TX 78404 (361) 561-0190

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105

THE BEND / LOOKING BACK

Photo Credit: Photo courtesy of the John Fred’k ‘Doc’ McGregor Collection at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History.

Students Walk Miller’s

Historic Halls Generations of Corpus Christians have attended Corpus Christi’s first public high school.

G

By: Jillian Becquet

oing back to class this August means walking through history for the students of Roy Miller High School, Corpus Christi’s oldest high school. Originally named Corpus Christi High School, the institution first opened its doors in 1894. The district constructed the current building in 1929 after the total number of local public school students grew to 5000. In 1950, the city renamed the school to honor former Corpus Christi Mayor Henry Pomeroy (Roy) Miller.

Roy Miller was elected as Corpus Christi’s mayor when he was 29, just over a decade older than Miller High School seniors. He served from 1913 to 1919 and made major strides in modernizing infra-

106 The Bend

structure during his tenure, including paving roads, building sewers and a water system, and staffing a full-time fire department. After an unsuccessful bid for reelection, he continued to serve the city by heading up the 1919 Hurricane relief committee and lobbying in Austin and Washington in support of the Port of Corpus Christi.

Before your favorite student walks into school for the year, take a moment to share a little bit about the person for whom the school is named. For many of Corpus Christi’s older schools, those people are the great educators and servant leaders of the past, including Mary Carroll, Ella Barnes, Moses Menger, Rose Shaw, Foy Moody, and Roy Miller.