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MAY 18 – AUGUST 18, 2019
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As a creative, where do you pull inspiration from in order to begin a project?
MON-FRI: 10AM - 5:30PM SAT: 10AM - 5PM SUN: CLOSED
Honestly, I pray to God for vision over my business and every session I do and I start to see images of inspiration float through my head. Love is the focus point behind everything I do.
I create a mood board on Pinterest, and I add pins bearing inspirational quotes, which serve as building blocks to get my creative juices flowing. Once I’m pumped, I get to the drawing board and begin!
PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas
VICE PRESIDENT & EVENTS DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick
ART DIRECTOR: Jarred Schuetze
MANAGING EDITOR: Kylie Cooper
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Daniel Coleman
LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Benavides
COPY EDITOR: Steve Gill
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Jason Page
Aaron Garcia
Brynn Osborn
Samantha Lunstedt
Lillian Reitz
CONTRIBUTORS:
Justin Butts
Kayla Butts
Julietta Hernandez
Jacqueline Gonzalez
Jillian Becquet
Jessie Monsivais
Laura Shaver
Emma Comery
SUBMISSIONS: kylie@thebendmag.com
SUBSCRIPTIONS: thebendmag.com
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309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.792.3606
My biggest inspiration comes from the subject at the center of each of my pieces. People really are at the root of everything I do. Whether it be their body language, a specific way they described something, or simply just the way their face lights up when speaking about their passions – complete strangers are usually who spark my creative process.
Whether I am just dreaming up a new idea or trying to work out the kinks of an ongoing project, I find most of my inspiration from nature. My favorite thing is to sit down along a nature path and observe the millions of tiny things that are happening all around me.
I find inspiration in nature, travel, and others’ experiences and stories. If a deadline’s looming and the well is dry, I look at trends, research, and the mother-load, Instagram.
ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com
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We really can’t take any credit when it comes to this month’s cover. Every June, we dedicate our cover story to local artists. This year, we wanted to explore four different individuals with very specific points of view. The result lent us one of our favorite issues to date.
The work we picked to grace our cover was done by Ben Wright. The piece is entitled "Sky Medicine," acrylic on panel.
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A few weeks before our first daughter was born, I thought it would be fun to take my wife, Kaley, out to a wine and painting class. Since she was pregnant, I figured she would do most of the painting and I would take care of the wine. It was my first painting class, so I had no idea what to expect.
When we arrived at the studio, we made the call to share a canvas, thinking one would be enough. The instructor made sure we were set up with all the brushes and paints we would need to create the piece and the process began. We set out to paint a beautiful peacock with pastel shades of pink and green. I made the comment to my wife that this would be the perfect addition to our daughter’s nursery. She had worked on the nursery for months and I figured this was my chance to add the final touch. She gave me a polite smile, but I didn’t pay it too much mind. The lesson was getting started and I was fully committed to painting the perfect peacock for the nursery. I watched as the instructor demonstrated each special motion of the brush, doing my best to perfectly match our painting to the example we were attempting to emulate. Needless to say, I got a bit more into the class than originally anticipated. I felt fairly proud of the final paining, thinking it was nearly an identical twin to the original.
So, why share this story? Well, it finally hit me while reading this month’s annual feature on local artists, that the best works of art have an original voice and point of view. Essentially, they are pieces capable of saying something unique about the world. They are drawn from each individual artist’s own history and experiences. This is the story Kylie Cooper tells in our feature on page 32. She says “In the midst of remix culture, there are few original ideas, yet the originality and history of an artist is expressed in their work through that point of view.” I was simply painting by the numbers, while Kaley wanted to take the canvas of our daughter’s room and truly create something special from her unique style and perspective.
The ride back home resulted in a quick fall from my short lived artistic high. Kaley kindly explained why she didn’t think the painting would be a good fit for the nursery. Not only were the colors incorrect, but the piece did not fit the vision and style she wanted to create for our daughter’s nursery. After a futile effort to defend the piece, I gave up. However, it did become a nice addition to the back of our closet.
1. Adaptogen ad-ins are a big trend in the holistic care world and feature tons of health benefits. There are a few local businesses in town where you can add these to your beverage. pg. 21
2. Rockport Center for the Arts’ new location will feature 22,000 square feet of new space in the heart of Downtown Rockport and will be located at the corner of South Austin Street and North Street. pg. 44
3. There are several edible plants right here in the Coastal Bend to pick and add to your plates. However, there are rules to the trade; so study up before heading out. pg. 96
– JORDAN REGAS, Publisher
We caught up with Alexa Gignac, of Coastal Closet, to talk about introducing pops of color through accessories. This tried-and-true way of bringing an interesting focal point to any outfit is easily achieved by adding brightly colored earrings or a bold statement necklace. What’s Inside
stylist statement
You can always add a little edge and attitude to your looks with your accessories. I love adding bright pops of color even to the most casual of looks. I had so much fun styling these casually chic looks!
Color is a very handy tool and if used correctly, will work wonders for your appearance. Here's a few ways to drop some color into your everyday style.
Dr. Cassidy Wright Hinojosa grew up in San Antonio, Texas and attended Texas A&M University for both her undergraduate and medical degrees. She completed training in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Missouri in Columbia, where she trained with some of the leaders within the field of Plastic surgery. Dr. Cassidy is a board eligible Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.
Adaptogen add-ins were on just about every predicted health trend for the year 2019 – and for good reason. Bringing more balance to our bodies is never a bad thing! Traditional herbs, roots, and plant foods such as holy basil, ginseng, maca, rhodiola, mushrooms, and spirulina all fall into the category of adaptogen add-ins. The best part? You can add these to just about any beverage –whether it be your morning coffee, a smoothie, or simply a glass of water.
This particular drink features Blue Majik Spirulina. You can order a Blue Green Adaptogenic latte from Eleanor’s (Owner, Jessica Gignac, recommends adding coconut milk and Spirit Dust). When asked about the benefits to such a drink, Gignac says, “Blue green algae is a potent free-radical scavenger for your body. It is a great source of dietary protein, B-vitamins, and iron.” Other add-ins include various products from the Moon Juice line. The Beauty Dust mostly has “beautifying skin adaptogens,” according to Gignac. Blends of Schisandra, Amla, Ashwagandha, Rehmannia, Goji, and Pearl help target stress and combat accelerated aging, protect you from free radicals, and help improve your skin clarity.
Other local places to order adaptogen add-ins: Archer Soapworks & Apothecary offers the ability to create a personalized blend of adaptogen herbs. The Gin-Weasley from the Coffee Muggle. Bien Mérité’s menu features a handful of drinks that include ashwagandha and maca. So, whatever your add-in of choice, stay calm and sip on. Your body will thank you later.
BY: KYLIE COOPER PHOTO BY: JARRED SCHUETZE
If you’ve yet to sign up for the Weekly Drop, you’re seriously missing out. Join over 22,000 Coastal Bend residents in receiving our weekly newsletter! Wake up with The Bend every Friday morning and find out about local highlights, recaps from the week, weekend events, Instagram shoutouts, and a whole lot more. Other benefits include being the first to see inside each new issue, exclusive advance ticket sales to all our events, contests, and more. Sign up on our website now and relieve yourself from the future FOMO you’re sure to experience.
With this being our Artist Issue, a wide spectrum of colors grace this month’s pages. Because of this, we wanted to find images for our Instagram Shoutouts with inspiring color palettes. Both @sweetlifebake and @shellandpine have colorful feeds that always tell a beautiful story. From the brightly colored foods always featured on Sweet Life Bake's page to the vintage pastels portrayed on Shell and Pine’s feed, we often look to these two local ladies for color inspiration!
Vela Dental Centers offers family, implant and cosmetic dentistry in Corpus Christi and Kingsville. Our dentists and team are committed to providing you and your family with not just excellent dental services, but excellent customer service. Visit any of our two dental offices for all of your general dentistry needs. Our state-of-the-art offices make use of the latest in dental technologies and techniques. Along with general dental care, our dentists provide quality cosmetic dentistry. We can also conveniently straighten your smile with ClearCorrect or 6 Month Smiles, achieving great results in as little as 6 months! Replacement of missing teeth with dental implants as well as full mouth rehabilitation will help recreate your smile! The use of digital imaging, laser dentistry, and additional advanced technologies helps us provide you the best care available.
Benjamin Vela, DDS, Cameron Egan, DDS and Amber Patel, DDS have happily provided dentistry in Kingsville and Corpus Christi, Texas since 1984.
and to
There is a competition in the Coastal Bend that allows high school students from the Coastal Bend area to compete for a chance to win a $3,000 educational scholarship.
The Coastal Bend High School Art Contest, which celebrates student art and allows young creators to share their talent, work ethic, and imagination, does just that. Ran by the organization Corpus Christi Fish for Life, the contest awards college scholarships to the top artists, and offers a silent auction featuring student art – of which benefits the students and Fish for Life programs.
In 2009, Chuck Goodwin started Corpus Christi Fish for Life, a non-profit mentorship dedicated to building a better future for the city by investing in the lives of at-risk youth. The program works with businesses, schools, and churches to offer leadership, guidance, and support to cultivate hope and transformation in the way these young people see themselves, their families, and their future.
Fish for Life's first steps began with taking minors on probation fishing; teaching them how to fish, educating them on the different species, visiting the hatchery, earning their fishing certificate, and visiting the pond – where they caught about 30 redfish one visit, according to Goodwin. “The organization has provided many charitable opportunities for less fortunate children, from taking kids who were in trouble out fishing to taking students from West Oso Elementary back-toschool shopping,” shares Goodwin.
Last year, the art contest was crafted as a fundraiser for art supplies for West Oso High School, awarding the school $1,000 for supplies. “We thought, ‘If we can do this with West Oso, why not do it with CCISD schools?’” says Lee Bailey, Special Project Coordinator.
This year’s contest included 150 entries between West Oso and the eight CCISD high schools. For each school, a first, second, and third place winner was named and received $150, $100, or $50 award based on placement. “I was impressed with their creativity and originality. It was really difficult to choose a Top 3 out of 20 entries,” says Bailey.
The top three winners from each of the nine schools are entered into a Grand Championship Round at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and Natural History. The top three winners of the Grand Championship Round, held last month, were awarded college scholarships up to $3,000. Internationally renowned sculptor Kent Ullberg leads the team of judges for the final competition, along with Dinah Bowman and David Winter.
Bailey begins his closing thoughts with a hopeful attitude, one that is present in just about everything Fish for Life does: “We hope to inspire these kids to be well-rounded citizens – people who study music and art, who develop their creativity. These are the people of tomorrow."
Contact: PO BOX 2243, Corpus Christi fishforlifecc@yahoo.com | 361.443.3035
BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES
Brunch, lunch, and dinner plates are best adorned with a crisp companion. With the variety of restaurants we have in the area, the simplicity of the chip has a different influence at each place. Nobody’s sandwich plate was ever as complete without this savory side, and we’re certainly appreciative. House-made chips can either make or break a restaurant, but we haven’t seen a bad chip yet. Here are some of our favorites from local spots.
1. SHORELINE SANDWICH CO. and their chips dominate the block. If it isn’t that slight spice in their seasoning blend, it’s the glassy crunch that makes them the perfect complement to some of the best downtown lunch sammies. 500 N Shoreline Blvd, #108
2. HESTERS CAFE’S lightly salted chips match the vibe of the place: light, airy, and delicious. Their homemade kettle chips are cooked to an appropriate crisp and then dusted with a light seasoning; the potato really never looked this good. 1714 S. Alameda St.
3. NUEVO CAFE’S homemade chips are always fresh, and usually fare best with their dipping salsa, which is also homemade. Here’s where the crunch of the chips competes with the crunch of the pickle. Today, we favor the chip. 1124 Ayers St.
4. PARADISE KEY is one of Rockport’s best scenic diners, and the chips live up to the business. Thin, browned, and crispy, their potato chips spruce up their best dishes and make us appreciate the saltiness of the coast a little more. 165 Cove Harbor, Rockport
5. P.O.E.T.S. FAMILY RESTAURANT serves up complimentary homemade tortilla and flour chips, and if those don’t put you in the Tex-Mex mood, their fresh, house-made salsa will. Let’s be honest: tortilla chips hit the taste buds differently, and we can’t pretend that they’re not irresistible. 4825 Saratoga Blvd.
Discussing shifts in the local LGBTQIA+ conversation, Corpus Christi Pride, and more
COVERSATION
BY:
KYLIE COOPER
PHOTO BY: LILLIAN REITZ
HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE CONVERSATION AROUND THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY IN THE COASTAL BEND SHIFT THROUGHOUT THE YEARS?
I have been a lifelong resident of Corpus Christi. Over the past few decades, I’ve seen a significant change in the way LGBT people are treated. It used to be many of us tried to remain closeted, especially professionally, because we knew we could easily lose our jobs. I feel there certainly are more opportunities for LGBT people to live openly, but upon saying that, the pendulum can easily swing the other way, when you have leadership that creates an environment of bigotry and hostility. A prime example are the laws that some legislators are trying to pass in Texas, which will allow for discrimination against LGBT people. The reality is that once you create legalized systematic discrimination of any sub-population, you open the door for discrimination against all minority populations.
I remember my own experience as I entered the professional world, being passed over for positions because they had concerns about “my kind.” It was always vague threats masked behind ambiguous words. That’s why I was determined once I was able to lead an organization: I wanted to create a safe environment where a person is judged by their achievements alone.
YOU’VE BEEN INVOLVED IN A LOT OF NEW ADVANCEMENTS IN THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY – NOT JUST THE COASTAL BEND, BUT SOUTH TEXAS AT LARGE. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THAT.
I am very excited and proud that the agency I work for is at the front of providing services to the LGBT community in the Coastal Bend. The Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation, for over 30 years, provides assistance to those most vulnerable in our community.
Research suggests that LGBT individuals face health disparities linked to societal stigma, discrimination, and denial of their civil and human rights. Discrimination against LGBT persons has been associated with mental health issues, substance abuse, and suicide.
With the building of a new facility, we will be opening the Coastal Bend Pride Center, which will offer access to services and be a source for community resources. It will be a safe place for LGBT groups to congregate and support each other. This endeavor will be self-funded through fundraising, private donations and foundation grants; we are looking to our LGBT community and allies to keep the project on track. Another LGBT health initiative is providing open access to all services, such as primary health care, hormone therapy for
transgender, counseling, and substance abuse treatment. We offer a safe environment, which is free of judgement, allowing for a better system of personal health and wellness.
IN REGARD TO EDUCATION, HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO CONTINUE OFFERING PROGRAMS FOR PEOPLE IN OUR AREA TO LEARN ABOUT VARIOUS ASPECTS OF THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY?
Knowledge is always the key to self-awareness. The Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation offers a no-cost training called “Safe Zone,” which provides LGBT cultural competency by exploring labels and trends in the community. This training can be accessed by anyone wishing to learn more.
LET’S TALK ABOUT THE CORPUS PRIDE CHRISTI EVENT. WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF NOT JUST MEMBERS OF THE LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY, BUT ALLIES OF THE COMMUNITY SHOWING UP IN SUPPORT FOR THE CELEBRATION?
As Board President of the Mosaic Project, the non-profit that organizes Pride Corpus Christi, I hope to see this event continue to
grow and attract people from other communities to our city. Every movement for equality has been successful, in part, due to the support of allies from mainstream society. By allies participating in Pride Week, it demonstrates their belief in the equal treatment of all citizens. In addition, on a more personal level, it shows they support their family, friends and colleagues who are LGBT. Celebrating Pride is celebrating the magnificent diversity of our community and highlighting what a wonderful place the Coastal Bend is to live.
Pride Corpus Christi is a weeklong celebration, June 3-8. All activities are posted on our website. There is something for everyone. We will be including a first run showing of the Elton John movie, Rocketman. We have a live theater performance of the one-man show “ICONS: Lesbian and Gay History of the World,” performed by Jade Esteban Estrada. Sandra Valls, the comedian, will be here from Los Angeles on Wednesday to perform stand-up. We have a pub crawl Thursday and on Friday two proms, one for youth and one for adults. Then we close the week with the parade and block party.
LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY?
There are LGBT people across every spectrum of society, including race, ethnicity, religion, gender, and socio-economic level. In all likelihood, everyone knows someone who is LGBT, whether they are out to you or not.
Pride celebrations are more than just parties; they are a reminder that not all of us have the same rights as others, that there is still prejudice, discrimination, and fear, and that gathering together brings comfort and lessens the isolation and sense of disempowerment. Come out and show your support for your family and friends – it makes a world of difference.
Contact: Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation 5633 S Staples St. cbwellness.org | 361.443.3035
PO INT O F V IE W A
By: Kylie Cooper
as a whole, is unquestionably subjective. When one decides to create a piece of work, and put it out in the public eye, they are also agreeing to allow complete strangers the ability to interpret said work. However, an artist’s point of view is often the theme they hope to scream through their canvas – whether that scream be subtle or not. Their point of view is what allows individuals to exist in such a saturated world of craft in the first place. In the midst of remix culture, there are few original ideas, yet the individuality and history of an artist is expressed in their work through that point of view. Sometimes, the personal perspective is very distinct and intentional; other artists are more obscure and indirect. Whatever form it takes, viewpoint is the elevating factor – it is what sets you apart from the rest. With an opportunity to explore four different local artists’ specific points of view, we dove deep. Our team was invited into each artist’s work space – a sacred place for most – where we got the chance to be immersed into the message these creators attempt to share with all who will listen.
Every journey begins somewhere. There might not always be a specific moment in time we can pinpoint, but there is always an inaugural memory we refer back to when thinking about how we got to where we currently are.
For Sandra Gonzalez, a local independent painter whose works mix the practice of realism through cultural identity, the artistic journey began after moving to Laredo, Texas. Her high school art class became a safe space following the move to America; this is where she first discovered acrylic paints and the concepts of color theory. Her mind, as she puts it, was opened. “I was 14 years old when we moved to Laredo,” Gonzalez says as she begins to recall her foundation. We are sitting at a fold-out table in her home studio, surrounded by stacks of canvases leaning against the walls. “A lot of people still speak Spanish there, so I never felt a huge culture shock when moving to America. But I had self-confidence issues; I couldn’t speak any English whatsoever. So, at times, I felt as though I couldn’t properly express myself. But then, there was art – it allowed me to express my thoughts when I didn’t have the words to do so.”
With encouraging parents supporting her dream, she graduated high school and enrolled in the Laredo Community College to obtain her Associate of Arts, then on to Texas A&M International University at Laredo for her BA, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi for her MA in Painting, and lastly, The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts for her MA in Fine Arts. Her resumé is stacked with impressive stewardships, teaching positions, various visiting artist and panel judging credits, and gallery exhibitions. It is safe to say Gonzalez found her passion, hit the ground running, and hasn’t stopped since. During her time at TAMU-CC, she was actively sending every piece of work to be shown in various Chicano galleries in California. She remained in Pennsylvania after obtaining her MFA for a position with the City of Philadelphia Mural Arts Program, where she worked under Betsy Casañas, a prominent mural artist. While she refers to this time in her life as being the turning point in her career, she made the move back to South Texas one year later in effort to be closer to her family and her now husband, Earl.
Some 2,600 miles south of Laredo (and a couple decades prior), Angalee DeForest, a realist landscape and plein-air artist, was being raised in Venezuela. Her family relocated to the
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Angelee DeForest
works as something that other artists looked down upon. But, Walshe and her best friend (a fellow artist, studio mate, and her first boyfriend who also happened to be gay), decided to start a revolution of sorts. They began hosting parties where people could come and view their works, drink, eat, and mingle. Doing this allowed her to gain the confidence she would need after leaving school, because her name was already out there in the art hemisphere – she already had people collecting her works before graduating. Around the same time she was getting done with school, she met her husband on a diving trip. Their love brought her here, to the Coastal Bend – where she has lived for the past six years.
Now, we travel back both in time and over the Atlantic Ocean some 7,000 miles or so to Lynchburg, Virginia, where a young Ben Wright was learning to walk in the late ’40s. As we sit in K Space Studios on a couch covered by a colorful blanket near the open windows, I ask Wright how he got to the Coastal Bend. His response: “That’s a good question,” followed by a tumultuous laugh – this, turns out, is very true to form for him. His family moved to Corpus Christi by the time he was in elementary school, and by the early ’60s, they were relocated to California. But art wasn’t always his passion. In fact, he hadn’t given it a single thought until he began submitting drawings to art magazines. You could send an illustration of, say, a pirate or a deer, and they would enroll you in a correspondence course where you would submit art and illustrators would send you back critiques. Turns out, he was pretty good at it. He had a corporate job, but, similar to a significant portion of mid-20-year-olds in corporate America, he felt a lack of fulfillment at the end of the day. So the next obvious move was to quit his 9-to-5 and pursue a full-time career in art. By the early ’80s, he was showing and selling his work in Los Angeles.
I won’t list out all the places he called home after that, but he didn’t make it back to this neck of the woods until 1986, and even after that, it wasn’t a permanent move. Around 2015, he decided to opt out of a traditional lifestyle, and hasn’t had an actual address ever since. “I really was just passing through Corpus, you know, on one of my runs.” Jimmy Peña, a fellow K Space artist he had met years prior, told him a studio space was available, so he paid the rent and has been working out of his studio space there ever since. When I ask why he decided to stay, he says, “The space was available, but the community here – there is nothing like it. The art scene downtown was kind of revitalizing itself, and the community was undeniable.”
E N W R I G H T
"I A M V E R Y
I N F L U EN C E D B Y
T H E T E X T I L E S M Y
G R A N D M O T H E R
W O U L D W E A R ...
T H E P A T T E R N S & C O L O R S,
Y O U K N O W ,
T H E Y C A N P A I N T
A P O R T R A I T
W I T H O U T E V E N
PA IN TI N G A F A C E."
- Katerina Janeckova Walshe - Sandra Gonzalez
K A T E R I N A J A N E C K O V A W A L S H E
Vieja' - Acrylic on Canvas
L E Z
con Fe' – Oil on Canvas
Where and how we began are influences on who we become, but there’s always more to the story than that. Other factors, from personal preferences to family history, help inform our worldviews, and choosing to concentrate on those factors can give artists direction and focus in their work.
Sandra Gonzalez, who primarily paints with acrylics for her murals and oils for her personal pieces, has a habit of pulling heavily from her heritage when it comes to the images portrayed in her work. Her grandmother plays a significant role in a lot of her paintings. “My creative process often starts by looking at family portraits,” she says. “I am very influenced by the textiles my grandmother would wear.” She points to a box on the shelf next to us that is filled with hundreds of fabric scraps. “The patterns and colors, you know, they can paint a portrait without even painting a face.”
While these patterns, colors, and motifs are present in her mural work (Gonzalez is the lead artist behind the Caller Times mural and the new YWCA mural), her personal work tends to dive deeper into emotions, and sometimes draws on past and current events from her culture and history. A large round painting hanging above her work station – it almost looks like an extremely oversized cross stitch – is a self-portrait showing Gonzalez lying on the ground in front of a monument on the border in Laredo.
“This piece deals with immigration and the experiences of growing up in a border town,” she says. “I was born in Mexico, but I have been a U.S. citizen for some time now, and you always have that feeling of duality inside of you.” She talks about having family members who still live in Mexico and friends who are DREAMERS, and the fact that not everyone has the opportunity to share a message with the world. “I think it is important to have a point of view as an artist, not just to stand out, but because not everyone has the opportunity to put things out into the world for others to see. It’s like we have this gift or this duty to expose concepts others are feeling.”
For Angalee DeForest’s work, which is primarily done in oils, geographical beauty is the guiding light. With a very limited palette of white, two reds, sometimes two yellows, and a blue, she depicts landscape images in hopes of underscoring the necessity of conservation for various environments. “I am always looking – I see things everywhere I go,” she says. “There is so much beauty here that is disappearing right from under our noses, and I think we need to capture that as much as we can.”
Preserving those beautiful elements of the world, and showing others how important they are, allows DeForest to share with
others a need to hold on to that beauty. Other than conserving the Earth’s natural splendor via impeccable realist paintings, DeForest’s true point of view comes across in a feeling she hopes to instill in the viewer. “I hope my work communicates something to cause people to smile and to love. It should be something of a healing feeling,” she says. “This day and era, it seems like we are being pounded over the head with negativity, and somewhere along the way, we need to have a spot for people to stop and smile and experience some peace.”
Making people feel or appreciate something has always been her goal. She recalls a story of her late husband once telling her how grateful he was, because if not for her, he never would have really seen things. Whether it is with a landscape painting, her portrait work, or any practice she dabbles in, that remains her point of view: showing the viewer both beauty
Katarina Janeckova Walshe’s point of view heavily revolves around sexuality and the human body, two subjects that have long captivated her. As early as the age of 18, tones of sexuality were present in her works. The female body and empowerment are a point of view threaded through each of her pieces. “My paintings are and always were super sexual, because I was beginning to create at an age where those types of conversations were beginning to be had. When you are 18, you begin to understand sexuality and start having questions about it, and you explore that. It was a topic that allowed me to truly feel free – and I have always loved the body and the way it looks,”
If you’ve seen any of her work, which is done in both acrylic and oil, you’ll be familiar with the motif of a brown or black bear. The bear is representative of a man – or, more generally, whatever form the viewer’s partner might take. “To paint a man,” she says, “I feel like I would either have to love that man or really know that man, but I don’t want to paint a random man’s face. So instead, I paint the bear, and it allows both me and the viewer to play with fantasies and interpret it as they wish.”
Walshe said she isn’t thinking about sexuality in a controversial way; she isn’t ever trying to shock the viewer. And as her work developed, she feels as though her interpretation of sexuality matured as well. That maturity is seen even more in her recent works, now that she is a mother. While the over-arching theme has an undertone of sexuality, it comes in various forms. Walshe recalls her anxieties of motherhood altering her works before her daughter was born. “I still paint with the idea of human relationships and intimacy, but I’m not ever forcing anything,” she says. “It has different qualities now, and because of that I second-guessed myself for a little bit.” But she has learned to embrace that change and, after an overwhelming positive response from her recent show at K Space (which featured various images depicting a woman and the concept of motherhood), she is continuing to let her point of view flow.
- Ben Wright
Visiting the Texas State Aquarium opens the door to a diverse world under the ocean. An amazing place where you can come face-to-fin with a vast abundance of life. Explore Coastal estuaries, colorful Caribbean reefs and make new friends at Dolphin Bay. Meet species that live near the shoreline and deep under oil platforms. Hang out with a sloth, touch a stingray and meet a flamingo. Your visit helps save the oceans and supports our turtle and bird rescue programs. You’ll save more than memories. 2710 North Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, Texas / 1.800.477.GULF / texasstateaquarium.org
As part of our commitment to rehabilitation, PAM Rehabilitation Hospital of Corpus Christi uses cutting-edge technology to help patients regain their strength, mobility, confidence, and freedom. The EksoGT™ robotic exoskeleton is the first exoskeleton indicated for stroke and spinal cord injury rehabilitation. The wearable device augments strength to help these patients stand and relearn to walk, improving their step patterns, weight shifting, and posture. PAM Rehabilitation Hospital of Corpus Christi is using the device to mobilize patients earlier in their rehabilitation.
Each year, as many as 15 million individuals su er a stroke and 500,000 experience a spinal cord injury. Early mobilization is especially beneficial for stroke recovery. Gait training with this exoskeleton suit is one of the latest advancements in stroke treatment and neurorehab in general.
Clinical research suggests that including EksoGT gait training during inpatient rehabilitation can improve patients’ gait speed and walking distance. Most patients take an average of 400 steps their first-time training in the device. It is the most clinically used exoskeleton and patients around the world have taken over 100 million steps and counting.
For more information on rehabilitation for stroke or spinal cord injury using the EksoGT robotic exoskeleton, contact Barbi Balliet, Director of Rehabilitation, @ 361-500-0623 or bballiet@postacutecorpuschristi.com. A physical therapy evaluation will help determine eligibility to use the exoskeleton in rehabilitation.
BY: LAURA SHAVER PHOTOS BY: AARON GARCIA
urricane Harvey blew through the Coastal Bend nearly two years ago, picking and choosing which structures to destroy and which ones to spare. When the storm was long gone, Luis Purón, Executive Director, and staff from of the Rockport Center for the Arts walked the grounds to assess the damage. Half of the center’s roof was ripped off and the building as a whole showed the results of a catastrophic storm. After three days of rummaging through the destruction, the center’s staff was able to save 60 percent of the artwork. However, those behind the center weren’t going to allow Harvey to decide the fate of its existence.
An art show was scheduled for installation the week after Harvey hit. Not having the event was simply not an option. Instead, the Coastal Bend art community rallied together. The Art Museum of South Texas graciously agreed to host the exhibit. Because after all, the show must always go on. Not a single sculpture from the collection was lost, although some needed a little more love than others. This is just one prime example of the resilient spirit the center has always portrayed.
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the Rockport Center for the Arts, firmly set in a temporary location, continues to serve as a core asset to the coastal community. Though the first location on the water’s edge in Rockport was torn apart by the storm, the center’s staff rallied quickly – and served a major role in recovery efforts and continued scheduled programming without a hitch.
“We promised our community that we would be here, and we delivered on that promise. Faced with so much adversity, we are very proud we made that promise a reality,” says Purón.
Five days after the storm, the center opened a temporary office in downtown Corpus Christi to work on exhibits, programs, and events.
By December 2017, only 99 days after the storm, a temporary space was opened on land previously purchased for a planned expansion, half a mile away on Austin Street. With the temporary building in place, the center was able to continue offering art education programs to the Rockport community.
“For 50 years, our organization has been more than an art gallery or a place to take an art class. The depth of what we have built over the past five decades here is quite significant. We are very fortunate that we were able to recover so quickly. I attribute our recovery to support from across the Coastal Bend and the State of Texas,” says Purón.
The team at the center knew how important it was to continue running their programs and providing a space to the community where people could go and remember how special Rockport is.
“We didn’t want to cancel any of our events, and we had our youth programs back and running immediately,” says Elena Rodriguez, Curator of Exhibitions. “We began to offer the Free Family Saturday program on Saturday mornings at Wind Way Gallery before the temporary space was ready. We wanted to offer something fun and lighthearted for all our families working tirelessly on their homes.”
The City of Rockport is known for its arts culture, and the Rockport Center for the Arts is fully interwoven with the community. The center’s major events each year include the Rockport Film Festival, the Rockport Tour of Homes, and the Rockport Art Festival, as well as numerous gallery exhibitions and community offerings. And, it is safe to say the Center is conducting business as usual.
This spring, the Rockport Tour of Homes and Studios once again showcased the living and working spaces of Rockport artists and residents.
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“Everything is up and running as best as we are able right now,” says Rodriguez. The gallery space offers rotating exhibitions of work by both local and nationally acclaimed artists.
The Rockport Center for the Arts remains actively involved in the whole of Rockport’s comeback from Hurricane Harvey, offering support for its downtown gallery neighbors. One example is the formation of The Rockport Art Loop, a collaboration among ten downtown art galleries, all of which have their opening receptions on the same night.
“We organized this to create an outdoor art experience, where art lovers can see a wide variety of media and subjects and enjoy the walkable and charming downtown Rockport. Our hope is that by combining efforts with all Rockport galleries, we may be able to attract more cultural tourists than if we were working alone,” says Rodriguez.
A capital campaign is in place for the permanent facility for the Rockport Center for the Arts, and for an endowment that will sustain the organization for years to come. The total cost of the capital project is estimated at $8.7 million and includes 22,000 square feet of new space in downtown Rockport – all dedicated to the arts.
The campaign was aided tremendously by a $5 million grant, which was awarded to the Center and the City of Rockport by the United States Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration.
“These federal grant dollars, as well as private funds raised in the capital campaign, are earmarked to construct a new home for the Rockport Center for the Arts. The new facility will also feature a conference center and space for performing and cinematic arts,” says Purón. “The future for the arts in Rockport has never been brighter.”
• The new center will feature 22,000 square feet of new space in Downtown Rockport
• The center received $5 million in grant money from the United States Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration
• The estimated total cost of the capital project is around $8.7 million
• The new permanent location for the Rockport Center for the Arts will be in the heart of Downtown Rockport at South Austin St. and North St.
The new facility will provide enough space that all the youth summer camp sessions will be held at the center proper for the first time in recent history. “This will allow more interaction for our campers with the Sculpture Garden and our summer exhibitions, further enriching the camp experience for our area youth,” says Karen Ernst, Director of
“We will also be able to expand our weekly series offerings for adults, to create open studio time for both 2-D and ceramics, and to offer an expansive list of advanced workshops in various media throughout the year,” says Ernst. “I hope to make use of the newly designed outdoor spaces to offer free programming for area families, children, and children at heart, such as Movies on the Green, or Jazz Under the Stars.”
What Rockport has accomplished since the hurricane is truly astonishing, considering the extent of the damage and the short amount of time that has passed.
“Our message early on was ‘We are open for business,’ and we definitely are. Our attractions, stores, restaurants, and hotels all started opening as soon as possible after the storm. We immediately recognized the importance of being back to business quickly,” says Purón.
The Rockport Center for the Arts and the staff’s dedication to be present for the community of Rockport was instrumental in helping people heal – providing an outlet for all the hardships presented by the recovery efforts.
“Rockport’s comeback campaign, ‘Find Yourself in Rockport Fulton,’ has been a tremendous success,” said Purón. “Our community has a strong sense of place, and Rockport Center for the Arts is, and always will be, intertwined with the quality of life in our community.”
Contact:
106 S AUSTIN ST., ROCKPORT, TX • (361) 729-5519
ROCKPORTARTCENTER.COM @ROCKPORTARTCENTER
Since a young age, Edith Rojas, DDS, has taken her father’s advice to heart. He was a general surgeon and understood the importance of hard work and preparation and relaying those messages to his daughter. “I watched him being kind and compassionate to others, no matter the long number of hours he had worked,” Rojas said. These are lessons she has allowed to transfer over to her practice today
Rojas, who is a certified American Board of Pediatric Dentist, and practices at Pediatrix Dental, strives to keep a rather fast-paced practice both fun and enjoyable for the kids and personal and informative for the parents. They strive to meet the unique needs of children and are committed to providing the best care for infants, children, adolescents, and special needs patients, all while maintaining the highest standards in pediatric dental care
Dr Rojas studied at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. When asked what sets her apart from others in the field, she explains how accommodating their
design, the space is set up to cater to all the requirements and needs for pediatric dentistry Pediatrix Dental knows exactly how important it is for parents to feel informed and supported when it comes to their child’s health. “We work as a team with all the medical doctors and therapists involved in our practice in order to provide the best care for children,” she says. “We strive to give them an exceptional experience every time they walk through our doors ”
has dedicated a lot of time to pushing for better laws and more awareness in regard to healthcare for those with special needs. “I am both a parent and an advocate for children with special health care needs. I understand the needs of people with disabilities and believe in their abilities. I have worked hard in demanding a better health care environment and lobbied for laws assuring civil rights for children with special health care needs ”
“Ultherapy is one of the ways I get the look I love.”
- CHRISTIE BRINKLEY, 63
Actual
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Aging gracefully means taking control of your appearance.
Despite what some may say, aging is inevitable. But the right tools and healthy habits will help you maintain your natural beauty at any age. For Christie Brinkley, aging gracefully means taking control of her appearance. That’s why she turned to Ultherapy® to lift, tighten, and smooth the skin on her neck and décolletage.
“When I look in the mirror, I want to look as good as I feel. If you can have something done to feel more confident and better about yourself, then you feel like your face matches your spirit — and my spirit is enthusiastic and energetic.”
Ultherapy® is the only FDA-cleared, noninvasive procedure that lifts and tightens the neck, chin and brow, and improves lines and wrinkles on the chest with no downtime. Now at Halcyon Med Spa!
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Royal gowns focus on characters from literature, mythology, and fairy tales
By:
have brought sparkle and fun to the Coastal Bend since 1954. Th at’s when the local Civitan Club requested the addition of a social and pageant atmosphere to the already existing Buccaneer Days –a pirate-themed kick off to tourism season, filled with festivities for all to enjoy.
Each year, Las Doñas presents a Coronation Pageant, which is de signed to promote Buccaneer Days festivities in South Texas and throughout the state, in order to encourage more people to come to the Coastal Bend. They work in tandem with the King’s Men to honor local and out-of-town families, adding excitement while celebrating traditions. Each year, hundreds of families join in, bringing second- and third-generation participants to the event.
In conjunction with these traditions, Las Doñas also honors the community through their philanthropic activities. They are proud to partner with the Coastal Bend Community Foundation by encouraging guests to donate to the Coastal Bend Day of Giving through the matching program. These donations are a special way to commemorate the Court during the Buccaneer Days Coronation, but they also benefit Corpus Christi and surrounding communities.
The Court of Legendary Enchantment not only celebrates family and community through their gracious acts, they also represent the Coastal Bend.
Her Royal Highness Princess of the Court of Legendary Enchantment
Olivia Cannon McClanahan, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. Christopher McClanahan, was crowned Princess of the Court of Legendary Enchantment. Reigning as the Princess of Enchanted Evening, her gown honors Luna, the Moon Goddess.
The hand-beaded Swarovski crystals sitting atop the fabric of the gown reflect twinkling stars and the tranquil moonlight, while the neckline forms the perfect star upon which wishes are made and dreams come true. A three-dimensional display of yellow-green moths, orchids, and red roses perfectly accentuate the vibrant dark navy velvet background of the royal train. The crescent moon at the top of the royal collar lights the sparkling Swarovski waterfall, cascading over the fountains and adding the perfect finishing touch.
Court Artist David Philips, Wardrobe Designer Peggy Ahuja and her assistant, Sheryl McMillan, collaborated to design the royal gown, while dressmakers Lucy Salinas and Monica Castillo recreated the magic of enchanted evenings.
Miss McClanahan’s paternal grandparents are Mr. Jack McClanahan and Mrs. Tom McKinney, both of New Orleans, Louisiana. Her maternal grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Edward Douglas Johnson, Jr. of New Orleans, Louisiana.
She is an alumna of Incarnate Word Academy High School and attends The University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi, where she studies Integrated Marketing and Communications. Her scholarly activities include a membership in the Delta Delta Delta sorority and Delta Delta Delta Leadership Team.
Design Concepts Salon-Boutique-Spa has a combined experience level of 80 plus years in the beauty and fashion industry. We are on the cutting edge of new trends, fads and classic styles. We are able to see the trends and fads of fashion before they ever hit mainstream by working Fashion Week and immersing in education. Corpus Christi is growing and we love keeping it a part of the beauty map.
Most of our guests have been coming to our salon for 15 plus years and we welcome everyone to our Spa-Boutique-Salon. No one is a stranger and there is beauty in all faces. We believe that our sta deserve to make a career in the salon industry, not just a job. We educate our sta to all be top-notch at their craft. There is no “I” in Team. We all succeed together. The salon is a place for our sta to plant roots and keep growing and building there clientele. We include a retirement program for our sta that keeps them earning more and more and allows them to stay in one place so clients are not having to chase them all over town. We have a system that works and allows us to handpick all of our sta and then pour as much education into them to take them to the top. All this translates into the finest experience you can find in Corpus Christi. Deidra has been a Redken Educator since 1998 has traveled the world teaching Cutting, Coloring, working Fashion Week and specializing in Blondes and Color Correction. She has been the owner of Design Concepts since 1999 and loves that her roots are planted deep in Corpus Christi.
Lord High Chamberlain 2019
Thomas Albert Gates, Jr., most commonly known as Dos, son of Diane and Thomas Gates, was crowned Lord High Chamberlain.
A proud native South Texan, Dos spent his childhood in Corpus Christi and Laredo, where he attended St. James Episcopal School and United Day School, respectively. He attended St. Mary’s Hall in San Antonio as a boarding student for high school. He attended Texas Christian University in San Antonio, and after graduation, he moved back to Laredo to work for one of the family’s companies. In 2007, he married Samantha Shafer of San Antonio, also an alumna of Texas Christian University. The pair made the Coastal Bend their home in 2009.
Dos and Samantha have been involved in numerous charitable and civic organizations. Their most important commitment is to the Church of the Good Shepherd, where they actively attend with their children. Dos has started various businesses in the Corpus Christi area, and has served on several boards, including The Art Museum of South Texas, The Lexington, The Texas State Aquarium, The Spohn Foundation, and The American Cancer Society’s Advisory Board.
Family is very important to the Gates clan. Together with their beautiful daughters, Isla Margaret and Louisa Frances, Dos and Samantha enjoy traveling together and spending their summers in Port Aransas. The Gates family also spends quality time engaging in hobbies such as snow skiing, hiking, hunting, fishing, cooking, golfing, and tennis, traditions they hope their children will carry on someday.
• Coronation is modeled after a royal court reminiscent of the Spanish rule of Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand.
• Pays homage to 16th century explorer, Alonso de Pineda, pioneer of Corpus Christi.
• King Alonso, the Queen, and the Princess of the court remain confidential until presented at the end of the Coronation.
Duane Stevens Herbst, son of Mr. and Mrs. Stevens Grosvenor Herbst, was crowned Chancellor of the Realm. Duane and his wife, Janet Rueb Herbst, are the proud parents of Monica Elizabeth Herbst, Stevens Arthur Herbst, Blake Robert Herbst, and Brett William Herbst.
A true scholar, Duane is a graduate of Incarnate Word Academy and earned a Bachelor of Science from Trinity University, and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas.
Duane currently holds the title of Vice-President of Rainbow Investments Company, a privately held corporation focused on oil and gas exploration and venture capital investments. Previously, he served as Corporate Secretary and later Vice-President of Corporate Affairs for Midcoast Energy Resources, Inc., which was engaged in the natural gas transportation business. Afterward, he began his career as a loan officer with MBank, followed by Bank One, both in Dallas.
A native South Texan and charitable gentleman, Duane is very giving of his time. An active member of the Church of the Good Shepherd, he currently serves on their Endowment Committee. Previously, he served on the Vestry, including for two years as the Junior Warden, and the Charmain of the Building Committee for the Growing in Grace Capital Campaign. Along with these impressive positions, he served two terms on the St. James Episcopal School Board, where he was Chairman of the Board for two of those years. He was also a former member of the Endowment Committee at St. James.
Aside from his many work-related duties, he loves the great South Texas outdoors where he can partake in many activities, especially hunting and fishing trips. He also enjoys spending as much time as possible with his family, traveling when he can.
Dr. Paul, son of Dr. and Mrs. Paul Alexander Kennedy Jr., and brother to Lisa Kennedy Allen, was crowned Lord High Steward. He is a proud native of Corpus Christi, and a husband to Merritt. Dr. Paul and Merritt have two children, Kate Elizabeth Kennedy and Paul Alexander Kennedy IV (Cuatro).
Dr. Paul is a practicing pediatric dentist and owner of Kennedy Dental Care, a group dental practice started by his father 50 years ago. He loves working with children and their families while advocating for improving children’s oral health in South Texas.
He received a Bachelor of Arts in Biology from Baylor University, a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi, and a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of the Pacific-Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, California. Paul then earned a certificate in Pediatric Dentistry from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio and went on to become Board Certified in Pediatric Dentistry.
Dr. Paul is an active member of the American Dental Association, where he received the Golden Apple Award for New Dentist Leadership, and currently serves as a Texas Delegate. He also serves in various capacities in the Texas Dental Association, Nueces Valley District Dental Society, Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Recently, he served as Co-Chair of the Texas Mission of Mercy, a program designed to provide free dental care for Coastal Bend residents.
He is also a member of the Corpus Christi Executives Association, served many years on the Windsor Park Elementary Planning and Decision Making Committee, and is a member of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd.
Outside of dentistry, leadership, and volunteer work, Dr. Paul enjoys spending time with family and friends, fishing, hunting, surfing, and snow skiing.
Then, spend a day in Galveston. Sleep late. Dig Austin’s blues scene. Sleep late. Visit the Houston Zoo. Sleep late. the Capitol and the Texas History Museum. Sleep late. Walk the San Antonio River Walk. Sleep late. Eat massive quantities of Corpus Christi seafood. Sleep late. Don’t forget the barbecue. Sleep late. Come home every night.
Did we mention, “Sleep late?”
Hailey Chapman has a goal of bettering the health of our community, one cup of tea at a time. With centuries long research regarding health benefits connected to tea, Chapman lives and runs her business by the motto: “Tea is always the answer.”
Local business aims to educate others on the benefits of tea
BY: EMMA COMERY PHOTO COURTESY OF: HAILEY CHAPMAN
college student out of bed before noon on a Saturday morning is a rare sight. But Hailey Chapman, a web design student at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi, braves the early weekend hours to load up her car (and her mother’s car) and drive over to the Southside Farmer’s Market. There she sets up a booth for her blossoming business, Teacup Goods, which specializes in all things tea – from traditional and original blends to handmade tea-based products.
Still in her first year of business, Chapman works out of her parents’ kitchen, and thus is subject to Texas Cottage Food Law, which limits the food products she can make and sell to the public. So while images of a charming tea shop and industrial kitchen sit firmly in her vision of the future, in the meantime, this young entrepreneur is building her business by maximizing the number of tea-based products she can produce out of her home. Jellies, candles, soaps, bath bombs, lip balm, bath salts, and oils – Teacup Goods is a one-stop-shop for selfcare. Better yet, Texas Cottage Food Law allows her to sell one of her favorite tea products: Earl Grey Tea Shortbread, a recipe she’s been perfecting since she was 12 years old.
Spurred by the realization that Teacup Goods was a business on the verge of booming, Chapman took the leap of quitting her part-time job at the university police department to focus on her business. “I was at the point where I could afford to make that change, and I needed to.” Besides, she adds, “My tea business is the love of my life” – and that love is tangible in her voice, in her eyes, in the tiny portions of Passionfruit Tango tea she carefully pours into a pouch.
And while she admits that she enjoys “tea for tea’s sake” and considers the health benefits “an added perk,” Chapman is happy to suggest to her customers different teas known for their health benefits -- always with the caveat that she is a web design major (the Teacup Goods website is rather delightful), not a doctor.
“Hibiscus can help regulate your blood pressure,” she shares, “and Chamomile has been used throughout history – all the way back to ancient Egypt – as an anxiety treatment.” For folks looking to transition from coffee to tea, Chapman recommends caffeine-laden black tea, specifically English Breakfast, which she promises is “the taste of happiness.” For tummy trouble, nothing beats the probiotic jackpot of ginger tea, and a little green tea can go a long way towards improving metabolism.
Health effects aside, tea holds a simple, remarkable power. For example, a cup of Peach Bellini tea can turn a normal Sunday morning into a sun-dappled meditation. Netflix Friday nights are enhanced by lavender tea bath bombs, tea-infused candles, and a plate of shortbread cookies. Chapman has built her business and her life on the belief that “tea is always the answer.” She may very well be right. Tea, after all, reminds us to infuse our hectic lives with small moments of tranquility, one cup at a time.
Contact:
hailey@teacupgoods.com 361.271.4333 | @teacupgoods
Dr. Heather Gonzalez, each day is
She
her
in hopes of improving her patients’
by beginning in her area of expertise. Originally from the Coastal Bend, she graduated salutatorian of Orange Grove High School, achieved a bachelor of science in biology from Texas A&M University, College Station, and graduated from The University of Texas School of Dentistry, Houston. She is happy to be back home serving her community.
WELCOME TO THE TEAM
Dr. Heather Gonzalez
Gabriel Lopez, M.D.
Gabriel Lopez, M.D.
Gabriel Lopez, M.D.
Board
Board Certified in Pain Medicine
Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine
Rudy Garza, M.D.
Rudy Garza, M.D.
Are you suffering from Chronic Pain?
Are you suffering from Chronic Pain?
Dr. Lopez may be able to help.
Dr. Lopez may be able to help.
Board Eligible in Pain Medicine
Board Eligible in Pain Medicine
Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine
Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine
• Treatment options include injections that reduce or alleviate pain and/or a variety of pain relieving medications
• Treatment options include injections that reduce or alleviate pain and/or a variety of pain relieving medications
* Treating all types of chronic pain
* Treating all types of chronic pain
* Most insurances accepted
* Most insurances accepted
• Treating all types of chronic pain including, but not limited to back, neck, joint, muscle, leg, arm, hip, knee, pelvic, abdominal, headache, shingles and diabetic pain.
• Treating all types of chronic pain including, but not limited to back, neck, joint, muscle, leg, arm, hip, knee, pelvic, abdominal, headache, shingles and diabetic pain.
* Both Drs. are fluent in Spanish
* Both Drs. are fluent in Spanish
• Accepting new patients by self or physician referral depending on insurance.
• Accepting new patients by self or physician referral depending on insurance.
Corpus Christi, TX 78415
Located bet ween Kostor yz & Weber) www.ccpainmed.com
Located bet ween Kostor yz & Weber)
• Accepting Medicare, Spohn, Humana, BCBS, Humana Gold, Cigna, Tricare, Aetna, United Health Care, BCBS Blue Advantage, Workers Comp insurance and Christus Health Silver.
• Accepting Medicare, Spohn, Humana, BCBS, Humana Gold, Cigna, Tricare, Aetna, United Health Care, BCBS Blue Advantage, Workers Comp insurance and Christus Health Silver.
Specializing in Interventional Pain | Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine
Specializing in Interventional Pain | Fellowship Trained in Pain
Board Certified in Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology
BY: AMANDA GRACIA
BY: LILLIAN REITZ
LOCAL BLOGGER AMANDA GRACIA (@SIMPLYGRACIA_) ON KEEPING HER SKIN HYDRATED AND LOOKING AS FRESH AS EVER
I’m definitely one of those moms who is always on the go and in a hurry…but I never allow myself to forget the importance of a good skin care regimen. Although aging is inevitable, I’ve learned that we can slow down the process and even prevent unwanted wrinkles if we just take the time to give our skin the nutrition it so desperately desires. This is why, no matter how tired I am after a long day, I make sure to set aside time for myself. No excuses, ladies. In the end, we will regret every night we didn’t take off our makeup and forgot to moisturize.
First thing on my list is my life-saver. This brings my skin back to life every single time! Since February, I have been getting eczema flare-ups on my face. When this occurs, I am unable to use any of my regular products, and this is the only cream that my face tolerates. Hence, it is now part of my daily regimen – and I swear it’s a game-changer if you have dry skin. I’ve used many name-brand moisturizers out there, and nothing compares to what this does for my face.
Product available at Sephora, $12-$38
Rose Hip Nourishing Oil - Mario Badescu
My makeup artist gal pal @aglamface is the one who actually noticed my dry patches on my face and recommended that I try more hydrating products/makeup. She was right, my skin was starving for hydration, so that is why I started trying out new things and found that this oil works wonders. I feel like it does exactly what it’s supposed to do: revives and soothes dehydrated skin. I apply a few drops of this underneath and around my eyes after the repair cream to give my face some extra “life,” especially if I don’t plan on wearing foundation.
I also use this same oil in conjunction with my rose quartz roller and jade roller. I highly recommend this product, because you can get the most out of it, and I’ve noticed a dramatic difference in my complexion.
Product available at Ulta for $22
Rose Quartz and Jade Rollers
It is very important to make sure that when you buy these rollers, they are actually made out of the material they are “promising” to be. Using one or both of these every day will show a significant difference in just a little over a week. Jade is really good for evening your complexion and leaves your skin feeling firmer and smoother. The most useful function is that it also helps drain the lymphatic system. Rose quartz helps with reducing fine lines and wrinkles, along with puffiness and dark circles. It helps close pores and tightens skin.
Rose quartz and jade rollers are available online and at various local shops for $15-25
Wet N Wild - Ultimate Brow
Retractable & Ultimate Brow™
Micro Brow Pencil
Time is everything, and right now I don’t have a lot to spare. So instead of spending 15 minutes on my eyebrows using all the ABH eyebrow products, I now use Wet N Wilds eyebrow pencils … and LOVE them. Same look achieved within 2-4 minutes. I do have a scar on one of my eyebrows where the hair doesn’t grow, so that’s when I use the micro pencil to make hair-like strokes to fill in the little gap. Then I use the regular-sized pencil to give them both a little more pigment and volume.
Products available at H-E-B for $4-$5
Speaking of eyebrows: Something every woman should have is a good brow tech. Someone who knows what you want and won’t leave you botched or ever tell you, “Ahhh, it will grow back.” I feel flawless after I get my eyebrows threaded, and it’s the best feeling knowing your eyebrows are on point. If you are looking for a new eyebrow person, you should go see mine. Her name is Vanessa Garza and she is located at Beauty Crush here in Corpus Christi. She will definitely take care of you. Tell her I sent you!
Services available for $15-$25 at Beauty Crush
Many Women experience it, let’s start talking about it.
Do you have trouble making it to the bathoom “on time”?
Do you feel “loose” vaginally since childbirth or menopause?
Do you feel dry during intercourse or have trouble reaching orgasm? Are any of these Symptoms affecting your life or intimate relationship?
If you answer yes to any of these questions, you’re not alone! Many women are experiencing it, they’re just not talking about it. So start talking to someone who can do something about it.
ThermiVa & O-Shot are in office, comfortable treatments that are improving intimate health for many women.
C. Dale Eubank, MD, F.A.C.O.G
Call today to learn more about the benefits of ThermiVa and O-Shot. Lisa Roberson, RN (361) 906-1112 Or
CELEBRATING FAMILY LIFE THROUGH TRADITIONAL AND CLASSIC DÉCOR
BY: JACQUELINE GONZALEZ PHOTOS BY: JASON PAGE
s the old adage says – “Home is where our story begins” – Porter and Jason Devries found the perfect home in The Coves at Lago Vista subdivision to begin their family’s story. Although Porter left Corpus Christi to attend college in San Antonio and Jason to College Station, they knew when it came time to start a family, the best place was in Corpus Christi. The subdivision's rich family lifestyle, large lots, and a first-rate view of the Oso Bay Wetlands were just some of the winning points for the Devries family.
Their stunning home offers great curb appeal with a tiled front porch and alder wood front door. It features high ceilings and natural lighting, with a sleek and fresh color palette allowing an eye-catching aesthetic, drawing eyes to the pieces you want to focus on.
“Much of our décor has a story,” says Porter, “I can look at a piece and recall where we were, what we were doing, and why this piece is important.” The riddling wine rack, a gift from her parents, is repurposed as wall décor, complete with a clock and macramé accessories. The wine rack is a memory of her parents, who are wine connoisseurs,
and provides the feeling of a home away from home. A pink crystal chandelier hung in the master bedroom was a gift from her grandmother and has been in the family for several years. She also recalls the antique store in Llano, Texas where the shutters, turned into a photo display in her office, were purchased.
The Devries family opts for neutrals in their home; however, Porter adds a vibrant, colorful, and personal approach to the foyer and office. The foyer greets guests with a cheerful array of bold shades of royal blue, technicolor prints, and chinoiserie vases.
A small room to the left of the foyer was remade into an office area. Taking a cue from Emily Ley, author and designer, Porter placed a large white desk with shelves covering floor to ceiling, with gold accents. The stark white of the desk and shelves provides the perfect background for the many colorful objects displayed on the shelves. Some of Porter’s favorite books line the top shelf of her desk and bring more color to the space, creating a unique display.
Directly to the right of the office area sits a stunning kitchen with stained cabinets, granite counters, and an extensive island. The family
loves to grill which makes the layout of the kitchen, and its close proximity to the dining area and the backyard, the perfect space. The dining area is not just the place where the Devries family sits down to enjoy a meal. The table doubles as a crafting and game area, where most of their time is spent. The metallic gold pendant lights, situated directly above the table, add warmth and personality
Sometimes, the most simple and clean of ideas are what works best. The living area sits in simplicity with subtle and sophisticated hues in neutral shades, giving off a warm, yet masculine touch. Large plants in simple containers add a splash of nature, showcasing the architectural lines of the high ceilings. Monogrammed pieces placed throughout the home add a personal touch without being
The neutral palette of the home flows into the master bedroom creating a timeless aura. With such a versatile color scheme, these hues can transform the area into a place of serenity. The children’s bedrooms also showcase a soothing neutral palette with added pops of color in shades that reflect their individual personalities.
The Devries family has a true love of art that is reflected throughout the home. The basic neutral shades of the walls offer a wonderful background for their art pieces. Colorful pieces by Hailey Mitchell of Austin and fishing artwork by John Deerman adorn the walls, reflecting their personalities and ties to South Texas.
The second floor offers a great space for family time. Once a bar and game room, Porter and Jason converted the upstairs into a large play area for their kids. The plush carpet and colorful rug add comfort, while the built-in shelves to store their toys keep clutter at bay. The show stopper of the play area is the gorgeous view of the Oso Bay wetlands, and the children’s playroom has one of the best views.
The pairing of Porter’s classic style with Jason’s masculine taste, sprinkled with a bit of the kids’ quirky preferences, makes Porter and Jason’s home a personalized and unique combination that says family in a really fun way!
As the school year winds to a close, and shouts of “School’s Out for the Summer!” resound throughout the Coastal Bend, parents everywhere (having survived months of soccer schedules, PTA meetings, teacher appreciation luncheons, spelling tests, science fair projects, and carpool lines) start their annual spring cleaning. Out go the lunch boxes, old cleats, and backpacks…and everything else collected during the year, that has found its way into our homes.
And every year, at this time, as the closets, pantries, and playrooms are purged, parents everywhere resolve that next year will definitely be different – that they will never let this happen again. Next school year…they will be organized.
But, we know its not just the kids; we parents have too much stuff too. Closets and attics are bursting, and the garage is full of everything...but cars.
Remember when your mother said, “A place for everything and everything in its place?” With Braselton Home designs, no space is wasted, and every nook and cranny of our homes are designed to give you the organized, efficient home you want (and keep pinning on Pinterest), but thought you could never have.
And so, at Braselton Homes, we have designed our new homes to address this problem. Just as important as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms that a home has, should be the number of storage areas. BraseltonBuilt homes have unique and clever storage solutions built right into them. So, with your Braselton Home, you can save that money you now spend each month at your storage unit location.
Today, our most popular Home Storage solutions include:
– Drop Zones
– Oversized walk-in pantries
– Texas Basements
– "Tech” Bars
Today, we will review the “little miracle” we call the Drop Zone. In Northern areas, these spaces are called a “mudroom.” However, we have taken that area, upped the ante, and turned this small space into the hardest working room in your house. A place to drop your keys and packages when you get home – this room has added storage benches, hooks, cubbies and even desks, to provide homes not only for the kids backpacks and sports gear, but also for the monthly bills and mail.
Come check out our newest model home, at 9401 English Oak Dr., located in the award-winning Tuloso Midway school district, in our Royal Oaks Neighborhood. Homes in this neighborhood start in the $170’s, and are a family ‘s dream come true.
In the Model Home, at the Owners Entry from the garage, The Drop Zone is the first thing that greets you. With this location, the kids can store their aforementioned sports gear, backpacks, and all their other stuff neatly. The can put it away immediately, so it’s ready for tomorrow.
And, along with the other kid-friendly aspects of this Braselton Home, the open floor plan, walk-in pantry, and abundance of natural light make this the perfect home for your family to enjoy.
The location of this Royal Oaks is ideal. It is only 2 minutes from I-37, but in the protection of the rolling hills of the Northwest. It’s just minutes to the Fulton Corridor, and downtown, as well as close to churches, parks and shopping. Royal Oaks is among the best living areas that our city has to offer. For a map, and more info, visit us at Braseltonhomes.com With plenty to choose from, Royal Oaks has completed homes available for you to tour, or you could come out, select your home site, choose your own decorating, and build the home of your choice.
See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton
Bart Braselton is the Executive Vice President of Braselton Homes, the Coastal Bend’s oldest and largest Homebuilder and Neighborhood Developer. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Bart is the third generation of The Braselton family building in the Bay Area. Returning to Corpus Christi after earning a BBA in Finance, as well as a second degree in Real Estate, from the University of Texas, at Austin, Braselton began working in the family business as a construction superintendent. 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.
Beauty, fragrance, taste, pest control: Marigolds really do have it all
Begin with a well-tilled bed (can plant in moderate or even poor soil). Hand broadcast seeds across the bed and gently rake into the soil. Water well for several weeks. Thin seedlings to the correct spacing by variety (see spacing below). Once seedlings reach 4” to 6”, mulch generously between flowers with native leaf mulch to prevent weeds, conserve water, and promote growth in high heat.
In the oppressive heat of August, marigolds may lose their blooms or fail to bloom at all. Providing extra native leaf mulch and more frequent waterings will promote robust blooms.
Smaller, paler flowers than French. Edible – in fact, a delicacy. Signet are not as robust as French or African: fewer blooms, a little harder to grow. Will lose blooms sooner in high heat and regain blooms later in fall. Grows best in pots.
Edible, tastes of tarragon, and also called “Texas tarragon.” The tallest, bushiest variety. Repels many garden pests. Excellent for a low hedge at far rows of garden – making an edible pest barrier.
ALEXIS HUNTER INTERIORS
ANN TAYLOR LOFT
BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR
CHICO’S
FOUR CHICKS IN THE PARK
FRANCISCO’S SALON
GOLDSMITH JEWELERS
GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY THE PORT FOR LEISURE AND LUXURY a legacy of style since 1955
HANLEY • WOOD
HESTER’S CAFE
JULIAN GOLD
MADRE MEXICAN FISH HOUSE (open summer / fall 2019)
PILAR FASHION & FOLK ART
TALBOTS
THE POST
Landscape Design & Installation, Stonework
a non-traditional fireplace, done right
BY: KYLIE COOPER
STYLED BY: JARRED SCHUETZE
PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES
used to think non-working fireplaces were extremely pointless. That is, until I moved into a home with a non-working fireplace. I had tons of ideas on how to transform this non-traditional space. Hop on Pinterest and search “decorating fake fireplaces” and you will be amazed by the amount of results. So, I figured there were others out there who might be struggling with what to do about their fireless fireplace. Here are a few of our recommendations!
There is something about having an absurd amount of plants in your home that just makes you feel better. Sure, some house plants purify the air and maybe that has something to do with it, but there’s more to it. A non-working fireplace is the perfect spot to bunch your favorite plants together. By choosing plants of various heights, colors, and textures, you can create your own little greenhouse right in the living room. We paired this vintage mid-century modern magazine rack with our selection of plants and the space came together perfectly.
Vintage magazine rack purchased from Olive Blue Resale.
Plants purchased at South Texas Botanical Gardens
This look will definitely cater to the simplistic bunch – you know, less is more and whatnot. Finding an assortment of vases that fit your particular preferences and arranging them inside the fireplace makes for a minimal and elegant space. We opted for these roman-esque sculpted head vases and a third vase that features the same raw textures, yet adds a pop of color through the bronze finishing up top. Artfully place your favorite stack of books and a tray of candles on top and viola: a sophisticated fake fireplace.
Pictured items available for purchase at Chic to Chic
Using your pesky non-working fireplace as a method to store blankets and pillows is quite frankly genius (and simple). Gather your favorite cozy items and thoughtfully arrange them within the space. If you have a neutral colored fireplace like so, you can use this as a way to bring pops of color into the room. Find brightly colored baskets, throws, and other relaxation necessities and you’ve got yourself an exposed storage without lacking any style.
Pictured items available to purchase at Pilar Lifestyles
ARTS & CULTURE 76 DATEBOOK 88 SOCIAL HOUR 90
Kaleigh Glover has always had one goal in mind: helping local artists achieve their dreams. Her latest effort, The Art Project, does just that. In an effort to put Corpus Christi artists on the map, she is putting her all into helping others.
How a passion for art has cultivated a stronger community BY:
JESSIE MONSAVAIS
Since she moved to Corpus Christi, Kaleigh Glover has been an active ingredient in the growing art scene. The Art Project, which helps local artists show their work in area shops and restaurants, is one of her main undertakings, and illustrates her passion for bringing people together in the name of art.
Glover has been painting for 10 years. As we sit in her studio on a gloomy day, she begins to reminisce with me. She talks about selling her paintings under the tree at La Retama Park during ArtWalk some time ago. After graduating with her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting and Sculpture from TAMU-CC in 2017, she teamed up with Urbana to create their stunning chalkboard menu. Pleased with her work, she began curating monthly art shows and setting up soft openings at Urbana during ArtWalk.
“It’s been a goal of mine to help put Corpus Christi on the map for art in Texas, and to help connect Corpus more to our state in that way. I’d like for it to be one day known as a destination to shop for art, like Santa Fe or Charleston,” she says. “I think with all the different artists and art galleries such as the South Texas Art Museum, the Art Department at TAMUCC, K Space, and surrounding towns like Rockport and Port Aransas, they are continuing to make that happen. By using hashtags like #CorpusChristiArt or #TexasArt on social media posts, I hope to expand the range of viewers.”
Since Urbana, Glover has become the Art Curator for The Exchange and The Cosmopolitan. In partnership with the Downtown Marina District, The Art Project helps place different vendors in the various businesses.
The Exchange displays four different themed art collections in each room of the restaurant. From sea-related artwork and recycled art for Earth Day Bay Day to “Surf Grotto,” an assembly of artwork that highlights the Texas surf scene created by a group of local surfers, The Art Project helps artists such as Cameron Walls, Dinah Bowmen, and more display their unique work of vibrant scenes of Coastal Bend life.
Coastal Seafood at it's finest
around the world taking pictures of surfing. Cat Huss, an abstract artist with an impressive collection of work that has been shown in Brooklyn, Dallas, and California, also has work up here. Her most recent series was picked up by Bed, Bath and Beyond and the originals of that collection can be seen at The Cosmopolitan. Glover and Huss also have a Coastal collaborative series at The Cosmopolitan alongside their original work. “She did all the backgrounds, and I created all the foregrounds. We used imagery from the Coastal Bend, from downtown to the Island,” shares Glover.
Glover shared what a refreshing journey it has been – meeting with different artists, mix-and-matching artwork based on color, composition, and subject imagery, and also curating spaces and designing aesthetic values to match each artist to one another.
“I’ve been in the same shoes, and still am, that all the other artists have been. It’s been really cool to see the other side and help this art scene grow,” she says.
The Art Project isn’t just about curating, it can be anything, according to Glover. “I’ve continued to do these painting parties at Lazy Beach and Lorelei Brewery. They have been so fun, because people come and do their own paintings. I lead the class with an example painting I’ve created beforehand, and then I paint another one with the class. There’s lots of laughter, moans, and groans in between, and silence. Sometimes I have to remind people to breathe during the process, and when they see their beautiful painting, it’s great!”
Glover hopes to continue serving and working with other artists in making art and merchandise with The Art Project. “Before I started, I was just another artist trying to make it out here, doing chalkboard art, murals, painting, and graphic design. It’s a hard market as a big small town. I just found there wasn’t common knowledge of the art scene and the importance art plays in a community.”
The Art Project has transformed nontraditional art spaces and put artists and their work into everyday life: restaurants, apartment homes, a grocery store. The Art Project continues to grow and develop as a source of knowledge and guidance, helping artists get their art out into the world. “As far as artists go, I hope I have helped them and proven that you can show your work anywhere.”
The Corpus Christi Mustangs are a group of male community leaders known for cooking their famous menu of pork ribs, pinto beans, cole slaw, cornon-the-cob, and rolls - all in the name of charity. They are a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, which perform free cookouts for various charity and community functions. To date, The Mustangs have assisted in raising almost $8 million for local charities and have served close to 300,000 meals. Their motto is ‘Rustlin’ Friends for Corpus Christi’.
The idea for the Mustangs organization was born in 1988 by Rear Admiral James H. Scott, retired. An initial meeting was held at Williams Wholesale for lunch, where approximately 35-40 founding members gathered and were served the now famous meal, minus the cole slaw, which was added later. Today, the organization boasts approximately 150 members and caters about six events per year, which are chosen by the Board of Directors from a list of numerous requests. The cost of the food and all supplies are funded entirely by the individual members of the Corpus Christi Mustangs organization.
Terry Schade is the President of Casa de Oro Jewelers, serving the Coastal Bend for 40 years. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Terry served in the U.S. Army after high school.
After his tour, he returned to complete his B.B.A. from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. His goal at Casa de Oro Jewelers is to sell and
create fine jewelry without the overinflated, retail prices, while treating everyone like family.
If you want more information about the Corpus Christi Mustangs you can call 361.883.1863 or email ccmustangs@ sbcglobal.net.
Casa de Oro Jewelers has many local organizations near and dear to the heart, but few are more special than the relationship with Driscoll Children’s Hospital Auxiliary. They have been making the ‘Angel’ charms since 2005 – 100% of the proceeds go to scholarships for Driscoll Oncology patients.
Today, in addition to attending to the daily operations of Casa de Oro Jewelers, Terry is a community advocate. He currently serves
on the Board of Directors for The Rotary Club of Corpus Christi and the Board of Directors for The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Corpus Christi – you might have tried his award-winning food at Men Who Cook, a marque fundraiser for The Ronald McDonald House.
He is a member of the Corpus Christi Mustangs, the Bucaraders Organization, and a graduate of Leadership CC.
He and his wife, Stefany, always welcome visitors to talk ‘shop’, whether it is business or community related or just to say hello.
The city motto of "Rockport Strong" came about after Rockport was devastated by Hurricane Harvey over a year ago. The beloved Coastal Bend community continues to grow stronger each day, at a very impressive rate. Hotel and condominium rental occupancy is expected to be back to 73% capacity by this summer with 95% of businesses open. Many local art galleries along Austin St. are alive and well, along with the new location of the Rockport Center for the Arts after its headquarters in an old, blue Victorian home was devastated after hurricane Harvey.
Rockport has a long history of being a gathering place for artists. It was even named one of the “Top Ten Coastal Art Colony” by Coastal Living Magazine. Its local wildlife and beautiful scenery have given inspiration to many well-known artists for over a century. Today, many artists call Rockport home and have formed a tight-knit community around their art. Rockport artists encourage, inspire, and sell their art together in local galleries. The Rockport Center for the Arts has long been the hub and catalyst for local artists in the area. Along with regular exhibitions, classes, and workshops, the Rockport Center for the Arts hosts a number of events throughout the year, including the Rockport Art Festival being held from July 6-7 this year. Visitors are sure to find the perfect work of art for their home or business in Rockport this summer.
Ten simultaneous art gallery openings create an al fresco art event in charming downtown Rockport. 4-7 PM | Always free to the public
1. Rockport Center for the Arts 106 S Austin St
2. Anita Diebel Studio 111 N Austin St
3. Yellow Rose Gallery 115 N Austin St
4. The Gallery at Latitude 28° 02’ Restaurant 105 N Austin St
5. Coast Modern 1012 E North St 6. Wind Way Gallery 203 S Austin St 7. The Gallery Collection at Maison 414 S Austin St 8. Estelle Stair Gallery 406 S Austin St 9. John Martell Photography 302 S Austin St
Stan Irvin Unique Clay Works 215 Water
Jun 22, Aug 3, Sep 7, Oct 19, Dec 7
Private Meeting Room for 25 • Catering for 10 - 100 Saturday Breakfast 8:30 - 10:30 Follow us on Facebook - @ourappledumplingdeli
Elizabeth Martin 361-205-4442 emartin@elingcoastal.com
Jennfier Park 713-269-7942 jparkrealtor19@gmail.com
Keith Hamilton 361-215-3028 khamilton@elingcoastal.com
Melissa Diaz 361-386-0707 mdiaz@elingcoastal.com
Welcome to Eling Corporation, Coastal Division located on the Texas Coastal Bend serving Rockport, Fulton, Key Allegro and Port Aransas and surrounding areas. Please feel free to drop by our office anytime to visit with our friendly and experienced Realtors concerning your real estate needs. Whether you are wanting to Buy, Sell, or Lease, our experienced agents will be happy to work with you. Eling Corporation's Realtors bring many years of combined real estate experience in Listing and Selling of Residential, Coastal, Farm and Ranch, and Commercial properties.
Anna Robertson 361-790-6457 arobertson@gmail.com
Estate Brokerage Firm Dinah Voelkel, Broker
Dyanna Rutledge 361-400-8340 drutledge@elingcoastal.com
Founded by John Jackson, Wealth Advisor and Michael Farah, Financial Advisor, The Rockport Group at Morgan Stanley is committed to helping clients fulfill their unique vision for themselves and their families.
Recently, the team experienced two milestone events that deserve recognition. John Jackson was named to Forbes Magazine’s 2019 list of America’s Best-in-State Advisors.
In addition, the team expanded its already considerable capabilities with the addition of Bill Wilson III, a Financial Advisor with more than twelve years of commercial and private banking experience.
Please join us in wishing John continued success and congratulating him for not only his accomplishment, but his team’s dedication to its clients and community.
The Rockport Group at Morgan Stanley 2902 Traylor Blvd., Suite 100 Rockport, TX 78382 www.morganstanleyfa.com/ therockportgroup 361-729-2201
Source: Forbes.com (Feb. 2019). America s Best-In-State Wealth Advisors ranking was developed by SHOOK Research and is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerances vary, and advisors rarely have audited performance reports. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research, LLC and are not indicative of future performance or representative of any one client’s experience. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors pay a fee to Forbes or SHOOK Research in exchange for the ranking. For more information: www.SHOOKresearch.com. © 2019 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
artRageous 2019: Manes and Markings June 8th
The season’s most thematic party is right around the corner! The Art Museum of South Texas’ Annual summer fundraiser has a theme celebrating an appreciation of skin, scales, furs, features, tusks, and tatts. This unique and lively event will not only prove to be a wild time, but will also help the Art Museum of South Texas’ exhibition and educational programs as well as community outreach initiatives. Purchase your tickets online at the museum’s website.
Art Museum of South Texas, 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd.
PRIDE Corpus Christi June 3rd - 12th
The annual community celebration of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Coastal Bend is here! This year’s week long celebration will feature a variety of events and fun for the whole family. A screening of the film, “Rocketman: The Elton John Story,” comedy night, pub crawl, a youth and adult prom, the annual parade downtown, and a huge block party to end the festivities are just a few of the events the week will feature! Head to the PRIDE Corpus Christi Facebook page for all the dates and information Downtown Corpus Christi
2019 Brew HaHa Craft Beer and Comedy Festival June 15th
For the second year in a row, the Brew HaHa festival is back! The event, which will take place at the American Bank Center, allows guests to enjoy samples of the best local and regional craft beers. Pair that with comedy and it is sure to be one heck of a night! This is a 21+ event and features over 30 breweries – including some of your local favorites such as Lazy Beach Brewing, Lorelei Brewing Company, and Rebel Toad Brewing Company! Purchase tickets online now.
American Bank Center, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.
Corgi Convention Corpus Christi June 15th
A new event has found its way to the Coastal Bend: The Corgi Convention of Corpus Christi. This event completely revolves around the short, stumpy, fluffy butt dogs we all know and love. The event will be held at J.P. Luby Beach and everyone is invited (yes, even if you don’t have a corgi)! The event will feature a costume contest for the pups, a raffle, and more. Stop by for one epic puppy playdate and bask in the glory of all the four-legged friends!
JP Luby Beach Mile Marker 203
15th Annual Stache Dash 5K & Kids 1K
June 15th
For the 7th year in a row, join in on the fun for the Stache Dash benefiting Bikes for Kids! The event features a fun 5K Run-Walk, 2 Mile Walk, and 1K Kid Run, all designed to cater to any fitness level. Every 2 Mile and 5K finisher will receive a free mustache! The event will also feature beer, snacks, and of course, will benefit children in need! Register today on the Stache Dash website.
House of Rock, 511 Starr St.
Corpus Christi Comic Con 2019
June 29th
The 3rd Annual Corpus Christi Comic Con is promised to be bigger and better than ever before! This year’s event will feature special guest panels, a best cosplay costume contest, a brand new convention venue, and tons of amazing guests! A few of the featured guests include Dean Cain, Michael Dorn, Barry Williams, and Sean Gunn! You can also catch trailers for all the latest movies, a gaming station, and tons of vendors to browse!
American Bank Center, 1901 N. Shoreline Blvd.
WE AT AMERICAN BANK HAVE GREATLY APPRECIATED THE FANTASTIC SERVICE & OUTSTANDING FOOD ASSOCIATED WITH WATER STREET EVENTS. WHETHER IT’S A SMALL, INTIMATE GATHERING OR LARGE COMPANY EVENT, YOUR TEAM HAS GONE ABOVE & BEYOND TO MEET & EXCEED OUR EXPECTATIONS. WE CAN ALWAYS COUNT ON BEING SERVED OUTSTANDING FOOD WITH IMPECCABLE SERVICE AT A REASONABLE PRICE. AS A LOCAL CORPUS CHRISTI HEADQUARTERED BANK, AMERICAN BANK PREFERS TO WORK WITH HIGH QUALITY LOCAL FIRMS LIKE WATER STREET.
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When House of Rock put together their summer cocktail lineup, they knew bringing back an old favorite was a must. The Sexy Mexy features both fruity and spicy notes and is sure to cool down the Coastal Bend heat.
A foray into foraging the Coastal Bend
As a species, mankind has been surviving off the fruit, leaves, and roots of nearby vegetation long before donning loin cloths or building fires. In the age of the Cave Man Diet, however, most of us couldn’t forage an edible from our landscape if our life depended on it. The skills and knowledge involved with plant identification, harvesting, and preparation have gone the way of the Dodo bird with all but an adventurous few. And yet, despite the convenience of reliable food sources within biking distance of most, foraging continues to offer participants an explorative opportunity to discover the flavors of our backyard, and even, perhaps, a little adventure.
Foraging offers more than just free food. Hunting for wild food exposes you to new locales and flavors. Wild plants are local and organic and have a minimal carbon footprint. Better yet, wild plants are very high in antioxidants and many boast antiviral, antifungal, or antibiotic properties. Walking and hiking outside to pick said foods improves mood and boosts vitamin D, serotonin, and dopamine.
Setting off into the wild blue yonder with nothing but a basket, pair of gardening shears, and your zest for life may seem romantic, but a foraging excursion will yield higher fruits with some advance preparation. Studying up on common edibles, such as dandelion, chickweed, thistle, or clover, is a great way to start foraging around your own yard. Delve further into foraging with a field guide, good book or guided tour from an expert or knowledgeable mentor. Before venturing off into a flower-filled meadow off I-35, remember:
- Most state and federal lands prohibit the gathering of plants unless in survival circumstances.
- Gathering plants on private property is considered illegal (and most Texas landowners also carry firearms).
- Avoid high-traffic areas, city parks, property lines, or industrial areas.
- Choose green spaces that are free of litter, pollution, or herbicides/pesticides.
- Dress in long sleeves and pants, comfortable closed-toed shoes, and a pair of heavy duty gloves for maximum comfort on a foraging foray.
Plants have developed incredible mimicry adaptations that are wonderful for stumping herbivorous predators, but painstaking for would-be foragers. A good rule of green thumb is to use three characteristics to successfully identify wild plants: leaf, stem, color, bloom, fruit, bark, location, soil conditions, fragrance, life cycle, or season. If in doubt, leave it behind.
Harvesting edible weeds that grow around us can be an empowering, sustainable, and fun way to supplement a meal. Grab the kids and a can of mosquito spray and venture out to the beach, the plains, the woods, or even, your own backyard. Adventure (and a basketful of tasty treats) awaits.
Resources: Mark “Merriweather” Vorderbruggen, 2006. foragingtexas. com. Learn more from his book, Foraging: Over 30 Tasty Recipes to Turn Your Foraged Finds into Feasts.
EDIBLE: leaves, stems, flowers
PREPARATION: raw or cooked
LOCATION: beaches
SEASON: available year-round.
- Use as a salty salad topping, added into prepared pastas, or boiled in soups.
EDIBLE: stem, roots, ribs of leaves
PREPARATION: eat peeled stem raw, boil leaves to make tea
LOCATION: fields
SEASON: spring, summer
- Use gloves and great caution when harvesting this prickly plant. The peeled stalk and stem is a great substitute for celery in gumbo, soup, and stir fry.
EDIBLE: young flowers and seeds
PREPARATION: seeds can be eaten roasted, raw, or ground into meal; flowers can be steamed, boiled, or petals can be eaten raw
LOCATION: abandoned lots, ditches, sunny patches
SEASON: summer to early fall
- The vibrant yellow petals of sunflowers are a lovely garnish to most dishes.
EDIBLE: flowers, leaves
PREPARATION: boiled in tea, herb
LOCATION: fields
SEASON: summer
- The flowers and leaves of horsemint add an astringent mint flavoring to foods, which is delightful when used sparingly.
EDIBLE: Dark blue berries ONLY
PREPARATION: boiled or raw
LOCATION: fields, common landscaping plant
SEASON: summer, fall
- The rest of the lantana is extremely poisonous and should not be consumed, but the ripened berries may be cooked or eaten raw.
EDIBLE: young flowers and stalks
PREPARATION: raw or cooked
LOCATION: sunny patches
SEASON: Late spring through summer
- The creamy white flowers of the blooming yucca have thick petals and a slightly sweet flavor. They are delicious raw or stuffed with cream cheese, battered, and fried. Pickle or roast young stalks.
EDIBLE: leaves
PREPARATION: tea
LOCATION: dry, sunny patches
SEASON: year-round
- Popular among xeriscaping aficionados, the leaves of the purple sage (also known as Cenizo) make a flavorful cold-fighting tea when boiled.
EDIBLE: leaves, roots
PREPARATION: cook leaves, roots may be eaten raw or cooked
LOCATION: sunny patches
SEASON: year-round
- Thicken soups or stews by adding leaves of the wine cup to them. The roots of wine cups are tubers that make a great stand-in for sweet potatoes.
• Blanco tequila infused with fresh pineapple and jalapeños
• Cointreau orange liquor
• Fresh squeezed lime juice
• Homemade simple syrup
• Fresh jalapeño garnish
The influences in House of Rock’s Sexy Mexy
BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN RIETZ
of summer is served with a salted-rim. The House of Rock downtown – working on their line-up for unique summertime cocktails – has brought back the recurring favorite, the Sexy Mexy, and it’s a good thing we’re thirsty.
This drink is a mix between fruity and spicy influences. Broken down, it can be described as a pineapple and jalapeño margarita … perfect for feeling refreshed during the hot Texas summers.
The tequila that the HoR uses is infused in-house with freshly cut pineapple and jalapeño slices that soak into the liquor over a few days. This sets the heat of the jalapeño into the tequila, giving it a sweet spiciness. Roughly shaken with fresh-squeezed lime juice, orange liquor, and a house-made simple syrup, this drink is poured with a menacing freshness. In a tall, salt-rimmed cup, it is presented with a few finishing slices of raw jalapeño – which some people like to eat, too, apparently.
Not surprisingly, the unique drink is one that the House of Rock has brought back summer after summer. Bar manager Britney Cook recalls this drink being around for even longer than she has.
“The special thing about this drink is all the handcrafted ingredients: we could’ve gone to the store and gotten the juice, but we made it ourselves and we infused the tequila ourselves, too,” she says. “It’s also one of the only specialty margaritas that we have. We don’t have an unspicy version, but it does shock people how mild the spice is. It’s delicious, not too spicy – most people get wary about the jalapeño, but the pineapple balances it out perfectly.”
Sitting at one of the barstools, while listening to good music and the AC blasting, this drink will help you escape a South Texas summer, even for just a brief moment in time. All in all, the Sexy Mexy remains a Starr Street classic.
8TE $
A shabby chic interior that features classic comfort dishes with a modern twist! Serving brunch, lunch, and dinner. 1220 Airline Rd. #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 casual homestyle dishes with everything homemade, even down to the pie crusts, and all with a gorgeous view of the marina. 100 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 882-2047, Citrusbistro.com
HAMLIN FOUNTAIN & GIFTS $
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. 3801 Staples St, (361) 853-7303, hamlinfg.com
HOEGEMEYER’S BBQ $$
Smoked fresh barbeque on a strong German heritage background and a satisfaction for something unique. South Texas barbeque that comes from the heart. 711 Concrete St, (361) 884-4227, Hoegemeyers.com
IRIE’S ISLAND FOOD $
With bold purpose and flavor craving taste buds, they set forth a new twist on local fare and many culinary delights from islands around the globe. 503 N Alister St, (361) 749-2310, Iriesislandfood.com
PADRE ISLAND BURGER COMPANY $$
Burgers, burgers, and burgers! Build it yourself or choose from their handcrafted menu. 11878 TX-361, (361) 949-3490, Padreislandburgercompany.com
POETS FAMILY RESTAURANT $
A hidden gem among life-long locals, Poets is a family style restaurant serving up a wide array of delicious home cooking. You’ll be greeted with smiling faces, laughs, and of course their complimentary chips and salsa. 4825 Saratoga Blvd, (361) 993-2170
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
THE BLUE CLOVE $$
CORPUS CHRISTI PADRE ISLAND
PORT ARANSAS
Indulge in the art of food with The Blue Cove. Family owned and served with love, this quaint little place will soon become your go-to spot for a weekend bite. 1945 Horne Rd, (361) 8552927, facebook.com/TheBlueClove
THE GLASS PAVILION $$$
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) 887-1600, Omnihotels.com
THE POST $$
Enjoy this popular gastro-pub with delicious dishes that are meant to be shared, along side a beer or cocktail of course! 3850 S Alameda, (361) 452-0907, thepostlamarpark.com
TOWN & COUNTRY CAFÉ $
This down-to-earth diner serves the best in homestyle American comfort food for breakfast and lunch. 4228 S Alameda St, (361) 9920360, Facebook.com/town-country-cafe
AKA SUSHI $$
Creative and daring rolls that work well together. The authentic Asian cuisine is made by a masterful chef with scratch recipes that will blow your mind. 415 Water St, (361) 882-885, Facebook.com/akasushidowntowncc
SANG’S IMPERIAL CAFÉ $$
Culturally dynamic décor brings an international ambiance to the atmosphere. Their commitment to the freshest food shows through from the dishes to the sushi bar. 4650 Corona Dr, (361) 808-8881, Facebook.com/imperialcafe
VIETNAM RESTAURANT $$$
Local fine dining restaurawith an extensive menu and eye catching Vietnamese culture spread throughout the dining area. 701 N Water St, (361) 853-2682, Vietnam-restaurant.com
Z COUNTER $
It is all about combining fusion concepts with the authentic flavors of famous street dishes from Asia, including Vietnam, Korea, Thailand, Singapore, China and more. 51220 Airline Rd #155, (361) 991-1115, z-counter.com
BOATHOUSE BAR & GRILL $$
The best thing about the Boathouse Bar & Grill is that there’s something for everyone; a mouthwatering menu, full bars with HDTVs, all on waterfront patio dining. 15241 Leeward Dr, (361) 589-9601, Boathousepadreisland.com
ROCKPORT OUTDOOR SEATING
LIVE MUSIC
BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE $$
Who says that you can’t have 4-star food in a casual environment? Not the Brewster Street Grill! Bring your kids or stay for a concert, they have it all. 1724 N Tancahua, (361) 884-2739, Brewsterstreet.net
EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB $
The most beloved casual dive dining spot serving up the best in burgers, beer and live music. Make sure to stop by on Tuesday nights for $2 Pints! 1724 N Tancahua, (361) 884-2739, Brewsterstreet.net
FINS GRILL AND ICEHOUSE $$
For years they’ve featured fresh seafood, 1/2 lb. Angus beef burgers and delicious chicken dishes plus a full bar. They’re also home to the “You Hook ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” service for all the fisherman out there. 420 West Cotter, (361) 749-8646, Finsgrillandicehouse.com
STINGRAY’S TAPHOUSE AND GRILL $$
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
GREEN LIGHT COFFEE SOUTHSIDE $
A true triple threat, GLC Southside features a coffee shop, full bar, and delicious bakery in a trendy, casual atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends. 3819 S Alameda St., (361) 225-4663, fillingoodbakery.com
HESTERS CAFE $
This legendary local cafe and coffee bar serves up invintive breakfast and lunch dishes with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. 3812 S Alameda St, (361) 855-1892, hesterscafe.com
JB’S GERMAN BAKERY $
Committed to maintaining the highest German standard, every product is handmade following age-old German traditions and recipes. 15137 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-5474, Jbsgermanbakery.com
SUGARBAKERS $
Made from scratch French and European cuisine with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The perfect spot for a simple breakfast or lunch with the family. 2766 Santa Fe St, (361) 884-9541, sugarbakerscc.com
DRAGONFLY $$$
A multitude of international backgrounds to the cuisine prepared entirely from scratch daily by the owner and culinary artist. The menu is full of unforgettable flavor profiles to satisfy any craving. 14701 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-2224
BELLA LUNA DOWNTOWN $$
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 $$
Comfortable and welcoming with a trattoria style authentic cuisine. You won’t find these dishes anywhere else in Corpus Christi! 3815 S Alameda St, (361) 814-8998, 523 S. Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-9003, Bellinostexas.com
HOUSE OF ROCK $
Top notch pizza and appetizers, cold beer, cocktails, and live entertainment! Does it get any better? 511 Starr St, (361) 882-7625, Texashouseofrock.ticketfly.com
PADRE PIZZERIA $
For over 15 years, their famous Padre pizza dough is handmade, hand-tossed and prepared daily. 14493 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0787, Padrepizzeria.com
PORT “A” PIZZERIA $$
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,
TRATTORIA TADDEI $
The chef’s recipes and experience, all with a genuine Italian flavor, from his home region’s traditional cuisine passed from generation to generation over many centuries. 920 Louisiana Ave, (361) 884-4400, Trattoriataddei.com
VENETIAN HOT PLATE $$$
Quality cuisine and a quaint, yet energetic atmosphere, giving a real touch of Italy. 232 Beach St, (361) 749-7617, Venetianhotplate.com
HI-HO RESTAURANT $
One of the oldest, and most cherished taquerias in town, Hi-Ho’s is undoubtedly the go-to place for breakfast tacos. 3703 Morgan Ave, (361) 888-4992
LA PLAYA BY THE BAY $$
A vibrant, bi-level Tex-Mex eatery and full service bar in a contemporary, colorful space with large outdoor seating right in the heart of downtown Corpus Christi. And that view! 227 N Water St, (361) 885-7702
RESTAURANT SAN JUAN $
A down-to-earth, colorful hacienda-themed atmosphere with an extensive Mexican menu, including whole fish, fajitas, and breakfast! 410 Cut-Off Rd, (361) 749-6521
ROSITA’S TACO SHOP $
This family-owned-and-operated taco shop in Rockport serves up some of the most delicious tacos and Mexican dishes in the Coastal Bend. 402 E Market St, (361) 790-8513
SONNY’S BARBACOA $
This quaint taco shop is the place to go if you’re searching for barbacoa. Using only
prime cuts of meat to assure the freshest, a best tasting tacos around, Sonny’s Barbacoa is no joke. 4066 S. Port Ave, (361) 808-7711
BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL $$$
Sit indoors, sit outdoors, see the Gulf Coast from any seat in the house while diving into top-quality coastal cuisine, live music and the best views around. 258 Snapdragon, (361) 749-4653, Blackmarlinbarandgrill.com
COSTA SUR WOK & CEVICHE BAR $$
This cevicheria is a true Peruvian party on your palette. The dishes are exciting, fresh takes on traditional dishes from South America. Perfect for ending a long beach day.
15113 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 945-8303, Costasurcc.com
GLOW $$
From a renovated boathouse, they offer simply-cooked bistro fare using the best local seafood and produce. Bright, relaxed atmosphere with white-washed ship lap wood walls and a full bar. 1815 Broadway St, (361) 727-2644, Glowrockport.com
HARRISON’S LANDING $$
Local waterfront treasure serving up the best in casual dining, relaxed happy hour, and leisure shopping experiences. 108 Peoples St, (361) 881-8503, harrisonslanding.net
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
LISABELLA’S BISTRO $$$
Casual coastal elegance with a family-friendly setting. The menu boasts a remarkable gourmet twist to your favorite fare, and a full bar that goes beyond just ordinary. 5009 Hwy 361, (361) 749-4222, Cinnamonshore.com
RED FISH WILLIES WATERFRONT GRILL $$
Enjoy a casual laid back evening of fine dining, there is something for all seafood lovers at Willie’s. With a vast menu and award-winning dishes, you won’t be disappointed. 322 Huff St., 361.758.9991, redfishwillies.com
ROCK & ROLLS SUSHI LOUNGE $$
At Rock & Rolls, they’re dishing out the most delectable and delicate fish from islands all over the world. Delight in a cold appetizer then “plug in” for some rolls and sashimi! 15121 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 949-1110, Rockandrollssushi.com
ROOSEVELT’S AT THE TARPON INN $$$
Gourmet dining at its finest in a beautiful Louisiana style home that sets the perfect tone for a taste of luxury. Historic background gives a unique sense of its famous visitors. 200 E Cotter Ave, (361)749-1540, Rooseveltsatthetarponinn.com
SCUTTLEBUTT’S BAR & GRILL $$
Extensive menu makes sure to have something for everyone. Food made from scratch from the dressings to the burger patties. Make sure to stop by during happy hour for drink specials. 14254 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6769, Scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com
SNOOPY’S PIER $
Outdoor dining experience and local harvested quality with an on-site fish house and shrimp breading facility that enables the freshness. 13313 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-8815, Snoopyspier.com
THE BOILING POT $$
Roll up your sleeves and take manners to a new level for a great Cajun experience. 201 S Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-6972
WATER STREET OYSTER BAR $$
Long-standing and beloved Corpus Christi landmark serving up oysters, sushi rolls and fresh Gulf seafood in a historic, brick building in the heart of downtown. 309 N Water St, (361) 881-9448, waterstreetmarketcc.com
YARDARM $$$
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
KATZ 21 $$$
Sets the standard for premier fine dining experience. Prime steakhouse specializes in dryaged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood. 5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, Katz21.com
NIKOS STEAKHOUSE $$
Committed to the motto “Great Food, Great Times. Great Experience.” Casual and elegant atmosphere that will truly exceed any steak lover’s expectiations. 5409 Saratoga Blvd, (361) 992-2333, nikossteakhouse.com
REPUBLIC OF TEXAS $$$
One of the most exclusive dining destinations in the Coastal Bend. A multi-level steakhouse offers beautiful panoramic views of the bay and exceptional dishes. 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 887-1600, omnihotels.com
BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR $$
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
THAI COTTAGE $$
Unique and refreshing, Thai curries meet teriyaki and Chinese dishes in a cozy red cottage. 5830 McArdle Rd, (361) 993-0777, Thai-cottage.com
THAI SPICE $$$
Family owned and operated for over 12 years, this restaurant is an intimate fixture providing curries, noodles & other traditional Thai dishes in a upscale relaxed atmosphere. 523 N Water St, (361) 883-8884
MEET THE NEXT BIG CORPUS CHEF MAKING WAVES ON PADRE ISLAND
BY: EMMA COMERY PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES
Towering above every other building, Schlitterbahn has long been a landmark on Padre Island. But as the waterpark makes its transition into Waves Resort Corpus Christi, the spotlight is shifting from the lazy river to the kitchen. The resort’s restaurant, EATS, is quickly making a name for itself as trendy, innovative, and completely in a league of its own.
The chef behind this must-try island restaurant is Javier (“call me Javi”) Chapa, a Corpus Christi native and 2013 Le Cordon Bleu graduate who dazzled diners across the state while working at P.F. Chang’s and Big Daddy’s Barbeque before returning to Corpus to reunite with family and work at Costa Sur and, later, Island Time Sushi.
This impressive career path was just the prelude to his greatest work to date: the EATS menu. “I’ve never built a menu from the ground up before,” he says. “At Island Time or Costa Sur, I was able to come up with specials, but I’ve never had the opportunity to work something like this.” His dishes combine technical expertise with delightful innovation, all while staying true to the food culture of the coast. “I’m French trained but I’ve worked in an Asian restaurant, a barbeque restaurant, a Peruvian restaurant, and then a sushi bar. So I pull from everywhere. But I also wanted to incorporate the coast.”
What does this mega-fusion actually look and taste like in real life? How about mouth-watering Poke, handmade tortillas, Korean Short
Ribs, Lengua Salpicon in a jicama taco shell…? Chapa’s menu is an eclectic showcase of pan-Asian, Latin American, and Coastal Bend comfort food at its finest and most innovative.
It’s a love-at-first-taste kind of menu, and people are falling hard. Case in point: in a city where driving over the bridge sometimes feels like too big a commitment, EATS is drawing diners from Flour Bluff, Southside, Downtown, and beyond on a regular basis, bringing people together from neighborhoods across the Coastal Bend.
With an easy laugh and broad, welcoming face, Chapa has the kind of dynamic personality that suggests he’s a natural at building community through food, but he points out that running an entire kitchen is a new – though welcome – challenge for him. “This is probably the biggest kitchen I’ve ever worked in,” he explains. “I’m running around it all day, directing the team, yelling at people...” We’re not buying that last bit. Between Chapa’s laid-back but hardworking energy and the dining room’s warm vibe, EATS is the furthest thing from “Hell’s Kitchen.” From the menu to the atmosphere, every aspect invites guests to unwind and discover something new about their old comfort food favorites.
BY: JILLIAN BECQUET PHOTO BY: DOC MCGREGOR, CORPUS CHRISTI PUBLIC LIBRARIES
Before there was a seawall to stroll, you needed to be on Water Street to get the best view of the Corpus Christi Bay. It ran along the water, and businesses thrived with locals and visitors looking to get the most scenic view for their business meetings, meals, and hotel stays. These attractions went through two hurricanes in 1916 and 1919, so when the 1920s arrived, the city knew the area needed a major attraction to get business going again.
Pleasure Pier’s 1,000-foot structure had a T-head for landing boats and one of the most popular restaurants in the area: Pier Café, located at the left side of the pier in this image. The Café’s advertisement for
the opening of a new 50-table building in 1932 promised the view would provide “a delightfully cool atmosphere” for diners. The Nueces Hotel – with its zig-zagging fire escapes visible at the right side of the image – enjoyed the best views of the pier, and its guests regularly enjoyed its charter boats, dining, and fishing. It wasn’t unusual for locals working downtown to stroll the pier on their lunch breaks, or after a meeting at the Nueces Hotel.
Pleasure Pier went on to survive future storms, and lasted until it was dismantled for seawall construction in the late 1930s, which gave us the bayfront elevation we know and love today.
