April 2019 Issue by The Bend Magazine

COASTAL BEND LIFE

The story of three Coastal Bend families

SHOULD HAPPEN

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WE LOVE CREATING

BEAUTIFULSMILES

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 3 dental ofﬁces for all of your general dentistry needs. Our stateof-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, Henry J. Arredondo Jr., DDS, Cameron Egan, DDS and Amber Patel, DDS have happily provided dentistry in Kingsville and Corpus Christi, Texas

Kennedy Dental is proud to have served the Coastal Bend for 50 years. Our practices o er both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. At Kennedy Dental Care, your child’s comfort comes ﬁrst and our unparalleled commitment to the highest level of pediatric dental care has earned the trust of generation after generation in the Coastal Bend.

The EksoGT ™ Robotic Exoskeleton

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.

If your neighborhood had a celebrity spokesperson, who would it be and why?

I live in the Lawnview Neighborhood. There is a super eclectic mix of people in our area – some who have lived there forever and have a ton of cats and some who are just now moving in and also have a ton of cats. When it comes to cats and eclecticism, there is only one man: Jeff Goldblum.

Jimmy Buffet. We all have that laid-back, on island-time mentality. There's just over 600 of us and no one's really a stranger, we're a flip-flop wearing, outdoor loving, golf cart cruisin', "cheeseburger in paradise" type of community.

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

ART DIRECTOR: Jarred Schuetze

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick

MANAGING EDITOR: Kylie Cooper

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Daniel Coleman

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Benavides

COPY EDITOR: Steve Gill

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Jason Page

Aaron Garcia

CONTRIBUTORS:

Justin & Kayla Butts

Julietta Hernandez

Jo Anne Howell

Jacqueline Gonzalez

Jillian Becquet

Kirby Tello

Jessie Monsivais

Laura Shaver

Stacy Sullivan

EDITORIAL

SUBMISSIONS: kylie@thebendmag.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS: thebendmag.com

THE BEND OFFICE

309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.792.3606

CONNECT WITH US

Hoda Kotb. She is actively involved in community efforts, with getting outside and allowing our children to have safe places to play being one of her passions. Portland’s outdoor activity areas are growing and thriving. The old 13-acre park recently was redone and is now a beautiful multi-functional play area for kids of all ages!

Jason Bateman. Your quintessential suburbanite who’s raising a family, having friends over on Friday night for Game Night, keeping his yard immaculate all while being a cool dude. He can function in the big city lights, but prefers keeping it low-key or as we call it…southside.

Matthew McConaughey. He’s the Texas hometown country boy. Down home on the inside, but hearty and tough on the out. Cheering on his favorite football team every Friday night, right along his neighbors and friends.

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

INTERNSHIPS: thebendmag.com

@thebendmag on Instagram and Facebook #CBLife

On the Cover:

The road which travels home looks different for everyone. Our cover story this month revolves around three different families who each have a unique story as to how they ultimately decided to make the Coastal Bend, and their respective neighborhoods, home. Regardless of how they got here, each family has embraced the neighborhood they find themselves in. With our cover, we wanted to convey that concept and the idea that community might just be the best thing a neighborhood can provide you with.

(Photo by: Aaron Garcia, Styled by: Terri Moore, Wildflowers)

OUR MISSION IS still SIMPLE

This issue marks our fifth anniversary. I couldn’t help but to look back on the first issue of The Bend Magazine, from April 2014, as I prepared to write this letter. In spite of so much change over the past five years, I noticed many similarities between Issue 1 and Issue 58. For starters, the inside front cover still features Buddy Walker Home Furnishings, as it has for the past five years. Rachel Benavides (formerly Rachel Durrent) is still capturing beautiful photos of the Coastal Bend for the magazine. For years our readers have commented on the beautiful photography within the magazine’s pages and Rachel has been our lead photographer since the beginning. We still have a lot of the same sections, like Open House and Social Hour. Ironically enough, the Social Hour section from the first issue features event photos from the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball and Halo Flight’s Casino Night, as does in this month’s issue.

It continued on for another paragraph. Looking back, I could have simplified it further; but, I am glad to have this declaration to remember everything I hoped this magazine would become. Out of all the similarities I can see between the two issues, it makes me proud to realize we are still living out the same mission we embarked on five years ago.

As I sat at my dining room table, scouring through the very first issue, I kept going back to page 4, where I decided to share a little bit about the magazine – who we were and what we were aiming to do. It started like this:

Our Mission is Simple - we want to capture the quality of life the Coastal Bend offers to residents and visitors alike. How do we do it? Simply. We want to use quality photography to depict our colorful sunsets and mouthwatering seafood, to pull readers into the area’s culture with intriguing design, and tell good stories about the people in our communities who are positively shaping life around us…

For this issue, we decided to catch up with Rig French on page 30. His family was covered in our first feature, which told the story about how the Frenches brought Autism Awareness to both their family and community. My friend, Rig, is a shining example of someone who continues to positively shape life in his community.

It’s crazy to think five years have gone by since we began this journey. As I stated at the end of my very first letter, it is still my hope that The Bend Magazine can continue to do good for the residents in our communities – by doing what we know best: telling your stories. We really are proud to be a part of the neighborhood.

THREE TAKEAWAYS:

1. Local’s List voting is April 12th – 26th, mark your calendar! p. 24

2. Hotel and condominium rental occupancy in Rockport is expected to be back to 73% capacity by this summer and 95% of businesses are open! p. 54

3. Bloom City Coffee, in Portland, sources honey from a local Portland beekeeper. p. 92

– JORDAN REGAS, Publisher

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AROUND THE BEND

BY: JARRED SCHUETZE PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

When purchasing a handbag, you must consider how the purse will look over time. Genuine leather features some of the most precise and strong craftsmanship available. This attention to technique and quality truly make these pieces worth the investment.

True fact: leather bags last decades. The expert construction means leather bags have the potential to last far longer than handbags made of other materials. Many common materials can develop snaps, rips, or worn spots that can distract from the beauty and overall functionality of the bag.

Unlike synthetics and other handbag materials, the patina and flexibility of leather actually increases over time; meaning leather handbags will look more attractive the longer they're used, rather than wearing down and aging after the first year of use.

If you're an individual who practices conscious shopping to minimize negative effects on the local and global environment, then leather might be the not-so-obvious option for you. Since leather bags are made of animal hides, a naturally occurring material, they require no synthetic chemicals to treat, which makes them a top sustainable choice.

Additionally, because leather handbags last far longer than their synthetic counterparts, the choice to invest in a leather bag can potentially reduce the waste produced as bags from weaker materials give out and are disposed of.

Whatever your reason for shopping, you can't deny leather bags stand the test of time and have proven to be an accessory for the ages.

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DR. CHAD ALLEN, DDS

LEGACY

• Dr Chad Allen is a third generation Corpus Christi dentist who has studied all over the world but chooses to call Corpus Christi home.

• His father, Charles Allen, continues to practice at their Saratoga o ce. His continued love for dentistry has no end in sight.

SPECIALIST

• Dr Chad Allen is the specialist of the Allen Dental Group.

• He is a certiﬁed specialist in Prosthodontics which includes the complexities of Implants, Veneers and comprehensive rehabilitation.

• Besides his Doctorate of Dental Surgery and Specialty, Dr Allen has a Masters in Oral Biology concerning the TMJ.

• Dr Allen is a Fellow in the International Team for Implantology and has spent time in Geneva and Bern, Switzerland studying implant dentistry.

CARING

• Dr Allen has helped lead several dental mission trips to Mexico and now works with Timons Ministries in Corpus Christi.

• He supports local charities such as New Life Refuge Ministries, Annapolis Christian Academy and City Church

TALK of the TOWN

The Morning Mist

Scents, like people, have personality and can evoke specific feelings. Some you want to be around more than others, some are for certain occasions, and others are the perfect complement to your signature style. A signature scent is your way of leaving a mark everywhere you go. You can tell a lot about a person simply by smelling them. If you exude a mysterious persona, a musky scent might complement your brooding exterior. Maybe you’re the woman at the office always primped and polished, and a fresh, classic scent captures your essence. Whatever your personality, we implore you to discover your signature scent.

WORDS AND PHOTO BY:

JARRED SCHUETZE

LOCAL'S LIST '19

The most wonderful time of year is upon us! A lot of people don’t know Local’s List really is a four and a half month endeavor here at The Bend Magazine. It starts with nominations in March, where all of our readers nominate their favorite local shops, restaurants, businesses, people and services. Now, we are approaching the voting phase. Between April 12th and April 26th, make sure you cast your votes for who you’d like to win each category! With over 80 categories this year, there are plenty of ways to spread the local love. The winners will be announced in the July issue of the magazine and we finish the whole thing off with a big party at the Art Museum of South Texas at the end of July!

SOCIAL LOVE

Instagram Shoutouts

This month’s Instagram shoutouts show how beautiful a Coastal Bend sunset is! @horses_on_the_beach_corpus the last month to show how they are living their best Coastal Bend life. Show us how you’re living your best local life by tagging us in your photos (@thebendmag) for a chance to be featured right here in the magazine each month!

the Impact of RESPITE CARE

Adoption is a lifelong journey; where do you go, and to whom do you turn when you need a moment to recharge?

BY: JACQUELINE GONZALEZ ILLUSTRATION BY: JARRED SCHUETZE

Respite care – care provided to foster children for a short period of time by someone other than the primary caregivers – provides a temporary relief of duties for parents. It requires specific training that gives them the tools necessary to properly care for foster children that may have special medical, emotional, or behavioral needs. Respite care providers are difficult to come by, and Liddy Vargas, Program Director at Agape Ranch, focuses on raising awareness through fundraising projects and community involvement.

In an effort to not separate siblings, or children that have grown up together, foster families tend to take in multiple children. Some foster parents are often afraid or ashamed to ask for help for fear of being deemed a bad parent, while others are unaware of the existence of respite care to begin with. For this reason, Vargas encourages the community to get involved in providing assistance.

The stigma surrounding the foster community casts a pall on the lives of these children. Vargas identifies one of the biggest misunderstandings as “the idea that these kids choose this life, thus creating a community among themselves, when the reality is that they understand the hardships, and getting others to understand is difficult for them.” Many of these kids don’t feel accepted or understood by non-foster families and are often dismissed as discipline problems.

Any “aging out” child not placed in a foster home by the age of 18, is released from the child placing agency. With little to no life skills training, these individuals end up being the biggest contributions to jails, trafficking, homelessness, and death. Everyone deserves a chance to survive in the real world, and Vargas and her team are working tirelessly to implement a home for aging out kids. The home will provide shelter for one to two years where they will receive plenty of resources

and a lot of support. Essentially, the goal is to empower these individuals to learn the basic life skills to thrive in adulthood, such as how to look for and obtain a job.

Fundraising events are also a great way to get the community involved. Working in tandem with child placing agencies, Vargas works to bring positivity through programs to youth experiencing trauma. This month, an art contest, brought to local schools in the area, will assist the teachers in identifying students experiencing trauma. The art contest not only provides a therapeutic avenue, it also empowers teachers to present art as a medium that students can use to express themselves and combat the trauma they may be experiencing.

Every December, Agape Ranch teams up with Crossbridge Fellowship to bring the Christmas Store. This event allows the members to coordinate with counselors in local school districts to identify students that could benefit from a Christmas gift. Local businesses and churches sponsor the gifts, while the team at Crossbridge Fellowship don costumes and manage the store. The collective effort has seen much success over the years during this event and hopes to continue the tradition.

Vargas strives to gain a cohesive citywide understanding of the need to take care of these kids. She encourages anyone wanting to help to consider volunteering. Although there are many avenues from which to help out, volunteering is the best way to encourage and empower the foster families.

Contact: agaperanch.org

ReTooled breathes life into the unexpected subject of tools by profiling 28 visionary artists from the Hechinger Collection. In the 1980’s, John Hechinger’s booming chain of hardware stores led him to purchase a new company headquarters and collected art to beautify the offices. Hechinger’s acquisition of a tool-inspired collection of diverse 20th century art that was accessible and engaging to all audiences. This exhibition furthers his mission by showcasing the diverse range of ideas, materials, forms, and creativity that encompass modern art. Highlights from the Hechinger Collection Washington, DC. Gift of John and June Hechinger.

Behman Brothers Foundation

IMAGE LEFT: Stephen Hansen, Man on a Limb (detail), 1985, papier-mâché, 72 in. x 48 in. x 24 in.

IMAGE RIGHT: Arman, Blue, Red, Brown (detail), 1988, mixed media, 48 in. x 61 in. x 5 in.

1. LAMAR PARK CENTER is a high-end style shopping destination in Corpus Christi and has been since 1955. The Center is known for its chic luxury boutiques, fine jewelry specialty shops, original home furnishings, fashion gift stores, and a beauty salon and spa. Once you’ve shopped till you’ve dropped, Lamar Park is equipped with the trendiest eateries offering wholesome breakfasts, lunches, and excellent dinners with craft cocktails and brews, complete with the perfect backdrops for Instagram-worthy photos.

3850 South Alameda at Doddridge, Corpus Christi, TX 78411

2. ANTIQUE LANE is tucked into a small triangle created by the crossing sections of Alameda and Avalon Street. A row of antique, thrift, and vintage shops is home to unique, fun, and quirky items. With Betty’s Trash to Treasure Too, Renaissance Antiques, Red Crow Antiques, Coastal Consignments, and Antique World, this old-school shopping strip serves as a onestop treasure hunt for odd pieces and repurposed gifts. Reader discretion – hours can be spent combing these cozy shops. You never know what you might find!

4333 South Alameda Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78412

3. THE VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER , located at the corner of Alameda and Doddridge, has a variety of shops and businesses that will allow you to spend an entire day in the shopping center without driving anywhere. You can start at Tannins for a late-morning snack and drink to fuel up for the day. Then mosey over to Denny Bales Estate Jewelry and Williams Shoes for some shopping. After that you can get your glam on at James Stanley Salon and Lovely Nails & Spa before heading to Bellino’s Ristorante Italiano for a fun date night!

3823 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411

SHOPPING DESTINATIONS BEST

BY: JESSIE MONSIVAIS

PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

The Coastal Bend has a mix of shopping districts for visitors to experience, from Central Corpus boutiques to Coastal antique shops. We explored the city’s streets to compile this list of the 5 best local shopping destinations in the Coastal Bend – all for your retail pleasure.

4. AUSTIN STREET , located in the hub of downtown Rockport, is a quaint heritage district, home to one-of-a-kind consignment shops and island boutiques. Easily walkable, visitors can explore the eclectic mix of local shops. Find the most charming Rockport souvenirs at Treasure Islander Shop or Gramma’s Attic; glam up at Sassy’s Boutique with the cutest clothing and accessories; experience inspirational visuals from local professional artists in painting, drawing, photography, ceramics, and glass at the Estelle Stair Gallery and Windway Gallery. There is also Rockport Daily Grind, a small coffee shop to keep you fueled as you’re shopping.

508 Austin Street, Rockport, TX, 78382

5. CROSSROADS SHOPPING VILLAGE is appropriately named after its location at the intersection of McArdle and Airline Road. Cottage style business structures bring charm and a nostalgic atmosphere to the retail shops, services, and restaurants it provides. From engraving to yoga, Crossroads Village offers a little something for everyone. Stock up on supplies for the perfect beach getaway at Benjamin’s Surf Shop, Corpus Christi’s go-to surf and skate shop for over 40 years. Jewel’s Clothing & Accessories has the trendiest shoes, bags, and jewelry for that night on the town. Get your selfcare fix at holistic spa SkinCare Butik and find your center at Crossroads Yoga Studio. Feeling hungry? Pick from a variety of Thai dishes at Thai Cottage or opt for some Louisiana fare at Catfish Charlie’s.

5830 McArdle Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78412

we are proud to be home for the best of south texas

winners of the 2018 “the local’s list” from THE BEND magazine

ALEXIS HUNTER INTERIORS

ANN TAYLOR LOFT

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR

CHICO’S

FOUR CHICKS IN THE PARK FRANCISCO’S SALON

GOLDSMITH JEWELERS

GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

HANLEY • WOOD

HESTER’S CAFE

JULIAN GOLD

MADRE MEXICAN FISH HOUSE (open spring / summer 2019)

MARKET

PILAR FASHION & FOLK ART

TALBOTS

THE POST

meet RIG FRENCH

In the very first issue of The Bend Magazine, we sat down with the Frenches to talk about how a family, with two sons who have Autism Spectrum Disorder, made life work for them. Today, we catch up with one of those sons, Rig French.

BY: KYLIE COOPER

PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

SO, RIG, WHAT HAVE YOU BEEN UP TO SINCE THE LAST TIME WE CAUGHT UP WITH YOU IN APRIL 2014?

I graduated high school in May of 2017. With the help of my parents, in May of 2016, I opened up my own shaved ice business called Mr. Rigaroo’s Shaved Ice in Portland. I also got a job at McAlister’s Deli in Portland to keep me busy during the time that Mr. Rigaroo’s is not open – but I plan on working at McAlister’s a couple of days a week while it is shaved ice season, as well. During football season, I also enjoy helping announce football games for the GP Wildcats.

HOW DID MR. RIGAROO’S SHAVED ICE GET STARTED?

Towards the end of my junior year in high school, my parents knew I wanted to get a job. I had applied for a job a few times, but I never got hired. So my parents helped me start my own business so that I could have a job, and help other people out with jobs also.

WHY SHAVED ICE?

My parents thought shaved ice would be a good thing to add to Portland that nobody else had. We had gone on a trip to Hawaii, and we all loved getting shaved ice there. It is so hot here that my parents thought it would be a good way to cool off, and we thought it would be a fun job, too! I like to meet people and talk with new people, and I get to meet lots of people when I take their orders.

WHAT DO YOU FEEL MR. RIGAROO'S HAS BROUGHT TO THE COMMUNITY?

I feel it has brought a new treat to cool off in the summer. It is a fun place for kids to visit, and we like to take the shaved ice trailer to school events when they ask us to come. I really like to make people laugh and smile. My shaved ice trailer is a fun place to be!

IF YOU COULD BE ANY SHAVED ICE FLAVOR, WHAT WOULD YOU BE AND WHY?

My favorite flavor is Red Velvet Cake with a cream topping. I would be that flavor because it is not an ordinary flavor; it is special. It has a very sweet taste. It is different, but once you taste it, you see how wonderful it is.

WHAT IS IN STORE FOR THE FUTURE OF MR. RIGAROO'S?

Well, I want to continue to operate my shaved ice business. We have two trailers now. We have one that will stay parked at HEB in Portland, where we have been for the last two summers, and we will start our 3rd season there in April. Our first season we were located in another part of Portland. We got a 2nd trailer to do more school events and sporting events. I like what we do for the community of Portland, and I would like to continue doing that. I plan to just keep on making people happy serving shaved ice. Hopefully, I will be able to continue doing this for many years. I would love to be able to do radio or voice-overs; people tell me all the time that I have a radio announcer voice. I would really like to start doing some commercials on the radio.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

I was a PAL in high school, and I got to spend time with kids at the elementary schools. I played games with them and read to them. I really enjoyed spending time with the kids and making them laugh and smile. I looked forward to seeing them each week. Even though I am not a PAL anymore in school, I still go and read to kids each week. They look forward to seeing me, and I look forward to seeing them. Seeing their smiles and making them happy inspires me to always try to make people feel good.

A Caring Staff Makes for a Better Experience

By: Kirby Tello

Ida Rojas has been going to Radiology Associates for so many years that when asked when she first became a patient she replied, “I have been a patient since the moment they have been around.” For the majority of her visits to Radiology Associates, Rojas’ MRIs were routine measures to address some arthritis pain she developed as she got older. However, three years ago, arthritis became accompanied by sciatic nerve damage and bone spurs. As Rojas’ condition gradually got worse, her visits to Radiology Associates became much more frequent.

Rojas self-defines as highly claustrophobic and as one can imagine, having a fear of tight spaces does not lend itself to extended periods of time in an MRI machine. Over the years, however, Radiology Associates has upgraded to larger, more comfortable machines that allow patients like Rojas a little extra space to not feel so confined. “The staff takes the time to make sure I am relaxed and comfortable before we get started,” Rojas explained. “They will even schedule extra time for me and other people who are claustrophobic to make sure I am not rushed.”

Rojas has been to other imaging facilities and says that they just cannot compare. The bedside manner of the medical staff at Radiology Associates is top notch. They provide eye masks, ear muffs, and even help to select music for each patient. One of Rojas’ memorable visits was when she was given a Radiology Associates eye mask and when she exited the machine and handed the mask back to the technologist he said, “Oh you can keep that! It’s good for advertising!” Rojas broke into laughter and replied, “What kind of work do you think I do?”

A cheeky joke like this fully embodies Rojas’ personality and zest for life and her comradery with the kind staff at Radiology Associates. Even though there are many battles to be fought in her future, she keeps a cheery disposition. It is this positive outlook of both Rojas and the Radiology Associates medical professionals that influence a speedy recovery for Rojas.

“The staff takes the time to make sure I am relaxed and comfortable before we get started.”

The story of three different families and their journeys to making the Coastal Bend home

We often take for granted all the things a home provides for us. Shelter, warmth, and a familiar place to lay our heads at night are among those things. However, possibly the most overlooked aspects of what our dwellings extend to us are the neighborhoods they sit in. The longing for community is present in us all, and a neighborhood allows us to form the human connections that will not only lend you a cup of sugar, but lift you up in times of need. These three families have all found that community in their respective neighborhoods in the Coastal Bend. While the roads traveled to ultimately get here vary between each family’s story, the arrival destination is the same. Regardless of how or why they ended up planting themselves in this area, they have each finally made it home.

OMINGHOME

By: Kylie Cooper

Photography by: Aaron Garcia

Styled by: Terri Moore, Wildflowers

“People crave community. Everyone wants to be known, and we crave that connection with people”

Emily & Marcus Veazey

Del Mar Neighborhood

Our

team was greeted by chickens roaming the front lawn and four newborn puppies upon arriving to the Veazey homestead. One by one, their three girls came hopping out of the car the family had just pulled up in, anxiously waiting to tell us each of the puppies’ names and which one they wished they could keep. I say this because, in a way, it perfectly encapsulates the family dynamic. They are on the go and involved in the community, yet their home is their safe haven, where all the chaos of having three young children and busy lives is embraced.

Emily and Marcus Veazey both have lived in a number of places – Emily, having a military family, and Marcus having lived in various places for work. Their stories converge in Washington D.C. where the two were both working after graduating college. Their story then takes them to Atlanta for seven years before they decided it was time for a change. Emily’s grandparents had always lived in Beeville, creating a soft spot in her heart for South Texas. Marcus’ soft spot happened to be anywhere on a coast, and thus, their decision was made.

“We were looking for a wonderful cost of living and a wonderful quality of life,” Emily said as they reminisce on their

COMMUNITY

Q&A

If your neighborhood had a celebrity spokesperson, who would it be?

"Betty White. Our neighborhood is old, but still very much in demand."

- Curt Johnson, Pope Place Neighborhood

knowing what is most important to you. And those things, along with being close to the water, are what ultimately led us to make the decision to move. But the community that soon followed after … we weren’t expecting that.”

The family moved to the Coastal Bend just a little over four and a half years ago. Their home, tucked nicely into the middle of the Del Mar neighborhood, is just a glance away from Ocean Drive. They knew a grand total of three people when moving here – something they weren’t used to, having a close-knit community in their neighborhood back in Atlanta. However, they weren’t going to let that stop them from fully embracing their new home.

Along with all their belongings, they brought with them one of their favorite traditions from their old neighborhood to the Del Mar community: Light up Atlantic. Every year, on the first Sunday of the holiday season, they host a potluck dinner when the entire neighborhood gathers at their home for an inaugural lighting of each home’s Christmas décor. “Every year it has grown, and it is so fun to see how it has brought us all together,” Emily says. “I mean, it is so cool to be a part of, and to basically kind of do life with these people, all because we live on the same street.”

The Del Mar neighborhood is literally steps away from Ocean Drive. Taking the kids to Cole Park, and their oldest daughter being able to ride her bike to school, are perks of its prime location. Yet one of their favorite aspects of the neighborhood is that everyone is friendly, caring, and willing to help in times of need. They recall Hurricane Harvey and how helpful their neighbors were in making sure their home (and chickens) made it through the storm safely.

“People crave community. Everyone wants to be known, and we crave that connection with people,” Marcus says in his final thoughts on the concept of neighborhoods providing you with community. Emily adds to the sentiment of how important it is to them, “Garages and fences kill neighborhoods, and it just makes such a difference when you know the names and faces of the people who are constantly surrounding you.”

“If we miss dog club one week, people wonder where we are. And that is something that feels good – to feel known and cared for by your community.”

Elise & Schuyler Moore Pope Place

Neighborhood

Ona Wednesday afternoon, sitting at the Moores’ dining room table around chips and salsa, a story of a young, yet established, couple began to unfold. Elise and Schuyler Moore, who now call the Pope Place neighborhood home, moved back to the Coastal Bend just over a year ago. Their story, which started right here in Corpus Christi, took them to both College Station and Dallas before fate, and a tiny bit of persuasion, ultimately led them back to their hometown.

The Moores both left Corpus Christi for college and, until recently, only knew this city through their childlike eyes and memories. After Schuyler accepted a job in Dallas upon graduation, Elise soon followed, and they planted themselves in what they thought would be their (for at least the immediate future) forever home. Elise and Schuyler were excited to be in a new city, planning their life together as newlyweds.

They describe their collective two years in Dallas as a time that, for them, just didn’t click. Even after buying a home in a nice neighborhood, something was still missing: community. They knew a move back to Corpus would allow them to achieve that necessary aspect of life. And, although there were hesitations, a job offer and the longing for community brought them back.

“We just really missed the smaller city feel,” says Schuyler. “Dallas is a lot of fun and there are tons of things to do, but we just felt like another person, another number – you don’t recognize faces everywhere you go, and after a while you start to miss that.” And so, their journey back to the Coastal Bend began.

They knew they wanted to find a home in the central Corpus Christi area, and began looking for homes in neighborhoods like Lamar Park, Morning Side, and Bessar Park. However, a corner home in the Pope Place neighborhood captured their hearts and, with some very impressive renovations, the Moores had finally made it home.

The Moores describe Pope Place as a quiet, yet lively, neighborhood. The homes are inhabited with some people their age, who are in the same stage of life, as well as families who have lived in the neighborhood forever. “It’s such a good mixture of people from all different generations,” says Elise, “I think that combination provides a balance, and it has created something so special.”

COMMUNITY

Q&A

"America Ferrera. She’s down to earth and embraces her culture. In a world filled with negativity, she uses her platform to advocate for women, while highlighting the positive aspects of the Latino community. With a ever growing Latino presence in my neighborhood, Ferrera would be the perfect spokesperson."

- Jaqueline Gonzales, Greenfield by the Bay Neighborhood

Aside from the prime location, coffee shops, restaurants, and shops within walking distance, and the close proximity to the water, one of their favorite parts about the neighborhood is the fact that when they are gone, they are missed – something they didn’t realize would feel so nice until it happened. “People in our neighborhood miss us if we aren’t somewhere,” says Elise. “If we miss dog club one week, people wonder where we are. And that is something that feels good: to feel known and cared for by your community.”

Midway through our conversation, they began pointing in various directions, naming who lives where, with a funny story about each of the neighbors named. “The only reason I got one of my back-up lights fixed recently was because one of our neighbors would knock on my car window and remind me about it once a week,” Schuyler says. “I mean, that is the kind of neighborhood we live in.”

They ended their train of thought with a nod to the importance of community and finding a neighborhood that best suits your specific needs. In a time when supporting one another is so needed, the Moores have found so much value in the people they are surrounded by. And even though there were places that they called home before making it back to the Coastal Bend, there is no doubt in their minds they’ve found the place they belong.

Kim Frost

Pirates Bay Neighborhood

Rows

of pastel painted townhomes and palm trees are the first things your eyes see when entering the Pirates Bay community in Port Aransas. As we pulled in, various residents smiled and waved to us. Kim Frost is standing in her doorway, greeting our team with one hand waving, one hand holding onto a Saturday afternoon cocktail. Her not-so-beachy beach house sits a short golf cart ride away from the water – where the sand is waiting for your arrival.

Kim grew up in Tyler, Texas, but her father was from Corpus Christi – which often meant spending summers down here with her family. It wasn’t until her senior year of high school that her family made the permanent move to the Coastal Bend. Her journey took her to San Antonio, where she finished her bachelors and law degrees, and didn’t lead her back to this area until she was pregnant with her first child. She instantly knew there was no other place she would want to raise her kids than Corpus Christi. And so, she packed up her things and came back to the area in 2005. The rest, well, is history. For Kim, the move back was a no-brainer.

“I love the community here. It is a big enough city [that] you can always have something to do, but at the same time, there are still small city aspects,” she says when asked why she felt her family would flourish here. She describes the Coastal Bend area as a place where everyone can connect with one another and thrive. She knew providing her children with an environment like that was crucial.

While she and her two children reside in the Del Mar neighborhood most days, every couple of weeks, when the school bell rings on Friday, they pack up their things and head to their house in Port Aransas. Some might deem it silly to have your weekend getaway so close to home; however, it actually is a bit genius. Kim, as a self-employed single mom, found it difficult to escape the chaos of everyday life without causing more stress that often comes with traveling.

“I came up with the idea to just look in the Coastal Bend area for a vacation house,” she said in reference to the decision. “In this phase of life, with the kids being involved in so much, it isn’t easy to just pack everyone up and go. And we love where we live so much, so I made the choice.” So, about once a month, the Frost family packs up their things and heads to Pirates Bay, a small community in the heart of Port Aransas.

“They call it the third coast for a reason. I mean, it is just its own little community, its own experience, and there truly isn’t anything like it.”

COMMUNITY

Q&A

"Music and art are synonymous with Rockport. So I would place Patti Smith at the top of the list; because she is a musician who paints as hard as she rocks. Smith was a huge downtown dweller. Since the 1960s, she has been an influence in Manhattan’s mega-culture."

Kim purchased the home shortly after Hurricane Harvey. So, while the home had minor damages to repair before move in, she was able to see the community relief efforts firsthand. She mentions how amazing it was to see everyone, neighbors near and far, come together to rebuild the place they loved so much. “Through everything, most of the people’s attitude out here was the fact that they were staying,” she says. “You can speculate as to why that is the case, but I really think it is just because you can’t find another place like Port Aransas anywhere; you just can’t.”

When I asked her to expand on that thought – that there simply is no other place like Port Aransas – she mentions the restaurants and the art culture, as well as the beach; but she puts the most emphasis on the people who inhabit the area. The people are what make the community so unique. The somewhat unnoticed beauty that a small, coastal town culture provides is that social molds have little to no impact. Whether you are a billionaire, an artist, a fisherman, or a school teacher, the one thing they all have in common is the laid-back, genuine appreciation for a slower-paced lifestyle.

Although Kim and her family don’t spend the majority of their time in their neighborhood in Port Aransas, they have still fully embraced the lifestyle and have made it home. “People fly and drive miles and miles to have

COMMUNITY Q&A

"Reese Witherspoon is timeless, much like Lamar Park. It is the quintessential ideal American neighborhoodwhere you’ll find the branches of large oak trees reaching like arms to embrace and hug the residents. She is classically beautiful and appeals to all ages. Reese puts modern twists on classic styles."

– Susan Gonzales, Lamar Park Neighborhood

"Jennifer Garner, because she is super casual and laid back. Also — as she is supportive of her wayward ex-husband Ben Affleck — our neighborhood loves our city and works hard to be patient with the challenging stuff...we try to celebrate the positive about our city."

– Heidi Hovda, Lindale Neighborhood

" Tom Cruise. He would appreciate the risky business that goes on. Plus, it’s close to a Naval Air Station base."

– Ali Rosek, Pharaoh Valley Neighborhood

Coastline Properties Specializes in More Than Real Estate, They are EXPERTS in our Community

Since 1995, Coastline Properties has focused on two pinnacle missions: top-notch client loyalty and community involvement. First and foremost, owner Cheri Sperling and her team work tirelessly to ensure optimal transactions for buyers, sellers, and renters. They do this by maintaining a full-time staff of highly educated real estate professionals who provide the most informative and devoted service in the industry. The Coastline Properties team is continually evolving their strategic approach to stay on top of the latest market trends so that every client’s best interest and goals are put above all else in every transaction. Their dedication is what keeps clients returning, referring, and is the true reason Coastline Properties is the Island’s go-to real estate agency.

Serving the entire Coastal Bend, this tight-knit team keeps ears to the ground and plays a pivotal role in the success of the community. This is no more evident than Coastline’s sponsorship of local schools, charities, and special events, including the famed Barefoot Mardi Gras. Because of this continued support, Coastline Properties has been celebrated as “Business of the Year” in 2016, and owner Cheri Sperling was named one of The Bend’s 7 Most Beautiful Women Inside and Out in 2018. Search no further for a smooth experience from start to finish, and know that you are working with enegetic and knowledgable professionals at Coastline Properties.

MEET OUR TEAM

Cheri Sperling (361) 774-3171

Tara Gallaspy (361) 652-1950

Elise Lippincott (919) 720-1646

Whitney Noble (847) 830-2087

Betheny Bell (361) 658-1092

Robbie O’Quinn (830) 275-3071

Meagan Furey (720) 308-6577

Mary Scruton (361) 658-8182

Sarah Greaud (225) 588-0975

Stacey Oliver (325) 423-1324

Property Management Team (361) 949-0101

Patti Finzel

Danelle Koc

George Brandalick

WAVES OF CHANGE

The Waves Resort of Corpus Christi, featuring Schlitterbahn Waterpark, is ready to open its doors

BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ

PHOTOS COURTESY OF: SCHLITTERBAHN CORPUS CHRISTI

so is the staff. According to Barocas, 100 test rides are required before the park can open. These have been completed by lifeguards, and staff, as part of their prep work.

However, the resort doesn’t stop where you might expect. Inside attractions appeal to another audience of summer vacationers. Pickett and Barocas excitedly introduced me to what is to become the new Video Gaming Lounge and Esports Training Facility, with a controller and high-grade gaming chair set up for any willing guest of any skill level. Equipped with 30 high-end PC gaming rigs, X-Box, PlayStation and Nintendo Switch console setups, and a full VR (virtual reality) arcade, it’s a whole different type of fun waiting for guests.

On the same floor, the resort will feature two challenging new escape rooms. The Stolen Relic, an Indiana Jones-themed adventure, and The Terminal, a New York subway system escape, will both fit nicely into a family vacation for a thrilling bond-

We then traveled to the fourth-floor balcony area. When Pickett and Barocas pointed out the view of the park from here, they were right about one thing: It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset. On this property, guests can even savor a view of the sky from the heated pool areas, or the pool bar. There truly is no shortage of beauty to behold.

“We want a very inviting space,” said Pickett, as we walked back to EATS. The layout of the resort, garnished with solid polished woods, bright colors, tropical greenery, and smiling faces, has a familial vibe. The home-like atmosphere allows you to feel as though you truly belong where you are.

“What I envision here, and what we’re training our staff to do, is that everybody who steps into this property is a VIP,” continued Pickett. “Everybody is important that comes through here. People come here to get away from whatever is going on in the real world, and they come here to get away from

A highlight of Corpus Christi rests on the shoulder of the city, giving visitors a welcome introduction to the Coastal Bend. “We’re also trying to promote what to do in Corpus while you’re here,” Pickett continued. “We have so many wonderful things in the city beyond all the things we have here, and we’re trying help to the local community prosper from the promotion of this property, and what we

With the doors set to open just in time for the boom of summer, there is one thing we know for certain: The Waves Resort of Corpus Christi, featuring Schlitterbahn Waterpark, is ready to give you the experience of a lifetime.

HIT THAT RESET BUTTON!

Lloyd Stegemann, MD, FASMBS

Dr. Lloyd Stegemann completed his medical school training at the University of Texas in Houston, TX and then entered into general surgery residency training at the University of Texas in San Antonio, TX. He currently serves as the Director of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery at Bay Area Hospital and South Texas Surgical Hospital in Corpus Christi, TX. He has been roundly praised for his clinic’s multi disciplinary approach to obesity management and his emphasis on creating an environment that promotes patient success. Dr. Stegemann is a sought after author and speaker by patients and professionals on the topic of obesity, weight loss surgery, and surgical aftercare. He has developed a post-operative program called The Prescription For Success After Weight Loss Surgery© which has helped hundreds of patient’s achieve long-term success after surgery.

Jegan Gopal, MD

Jegan Gopal, MD is the newest member of The Better Weigh Center. Dr. Gopal specializes in minimally invasive and bariatric surgery. He grew up in Los Angeles, CA where he attended and graduated with Honors in Biochemistry at UCLA. Dr. Gopal is passionate about weight loss surgery, and the major positive impact it has on the general health of his patients and their quality of life. He has experience in gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy, and revisional bariatric surgery. He is candidate member of the Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons, American College of Surgeons, and American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. Additionally, he has presented at Obesity Week and has published in Bariatric Times. In his spare time, Dr. Gopal enjoys biking, basketball, traveling, and drawing.

Surgical Weight Loss

After weight loss surgery, resolution rates for the following medical conditions may be as high as:

My sign off slogan for these Bend Magazine pieces has always been "See you in the neighborhood," because we believe the hallmark of a Braselton Home is a Braselton Neighborhood; a community created for our homebuyers to live and play in.

Each Braselton neighborhood is characterized by homes built to be architecturally appealing for decades, with streets laid out to minimize traffic and maximize pedestrian opportunities and exercise. Many have water features to add grace and beauty to the landscaping, and playgrounds to give your children a safe and fun place to play. All of these aspects help build a strong and vibrant community for our homeowners.

One of our best known Braselton Neighborhoods is Corpus Christi's only Master -Planned Community, Rancho Vista. On the Southside, conveniently located near the corner of Yorktown and Rodd Field Road, Rancho Vista is a 300-acre planned community with much to offer its homeowners. Several distinct neighborhoods comprise the development, each with homesites, featuring lakeside, boulevard, oversized, garden, and estate lots, all surrounding a large central park , with a walking trail system, featuring lakes and landscaping that extend all the way to Oso Creek and the King Ranch beyond.

The walking and jogging trails and paths that are off the roadways and therefore safe, dog and kid friendly, and easily accessible. They also have children's playground and sports areas, so families can walk or bike on the trails

to the playgrounds and fields to play.

And, Since floor plans in this development range from 1,400 square feet to 3,600 square feet, there is a home for everyone. From young families with children, to seniors downsizing, to Bungalow garden homes, everyone can take in the vibrant lifestyle opportunities that this neighborhoods offers

Part of the Rancho Vista charm is the careful selection of materials inside and out that distinguish a Braselton neighborhood. From the magnificent Monument Tower entry gates to the brick, stucco, and landscaping that make up our homes' exteriors, all designed to give each home a distinct personality while still contributing to the Rancho Vista "look."

All of this comes with homes that are built eco- friendly and to the highest standards of green building, with optimum health of homeowners in mind. Healthy homes and healthy lifestyles lead to a healthy community, and healthy homeowners.

Please visit us at one of our Braselton communities, across the Coastal Bend; we have 8 Neighborhoods with fully furnished Model Homes, ready for you to tour.

For a map and more information visit us at braseltonhomes.com

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.

BART BRASELTON

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele is a Board Certiﬁed Plastic Surgeon who has been practicing in Corpus Christi for the last decade. Dr. Vijay trained at the prestigious University of Southern California and is an Air Force Veteran. He enjoys every aspect of Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery. Please visit our website for more information on Dr. Vijay, his staff and the procedures we offer.

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.

After moving to the Coastal Bend, local lady, Alexa Obregon, had to find a way to maintain her curls in her new humid environment. She’s dishing out all her tips and tricks to taming those curls and keeping her beauty routine fresh!

Unleashing Your Light

How one local woman transformed trauma into triumph so others can soar

BY: LAURA SHAVER PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Belkis Clarke-Mitcham is a gem in our coastal community – a gem who shines after rising from the depths of trauma-induced depression and soars with exuberant confidence. Originally from Saint Kitts island in the Caribbean, Belkis and her husband recently relocated to Corpus Christi, so he could pursue a dream career. “So here we are,” she said, “and we are loving it.”

Belkis strives to help others transform trauma into triumph. She is a spiritual life coach, motivational speaker, and the owner of Unleash Your Light, an online self-help program. And later this year, she will

introduce the Phoenix Life Academy in Corpus Christi, designed for women who struggle with self-esteem, have been hurt or betrayed, experienced traumatic life events, or feel broken.

“My aim is to help individuals live their phoenix life and unleash their truth and the best in themselves, so that they can be released from negative patterns and the tangle of pain and disappointments,” said Belkis.

For over a decade, Belkis has taught on a multitude of stages, at retreats and seminars, and at youth camps. Her motivation for providing emotional support for so many others stems from the sexual abuse she endured as a child. “I felt as if I was only good to be used,” said Belkis. She first tried to commit suicide at age 15, and even after her release from the hospital, she still lived a disconnected life. “There was so much pretending, but I was trapped inside myself.”

As she grew into a young adult, she never forgot all of the feelings she had processed in her youth. “The confusion, thinking I was a failure, doubting every decision, and second-guessing everything – it has not been an easy road,” she said. But she soon discovered how great a teacher and a motivational speaker she was, and she combined those two talents. “I had a lot to learn, but I was determined to give myself a chance, and here I am today, a motivational teacher.”

Unleash and the Phoenix Life Academy, through targeted exercises and teachings, walk an individual through various, significant stages of life to help uncover what is true to each participant and how she can achieve living in her truth. “We help them rediscover their value, fire, and passion. A candle that is unlit is not serving its purpose,” said Belkis. Unlike traditional therapy which focuses on the past, Belkis’ programs focus on the current stage of life and mapping a plan to help achieve personal goals.

Belkis knows the importance of dealing with trauma, as hard as it may be, because life changes after a traumatic event. “We pinpoint goals, challenges in various areas, and determine how to move forward. This can be accomplished one-on-one, face-to-face or online, in a seminar, or at a retreat,” she said.

Through these programs, lives have been touched and changed. In a world where dealing with trauma sometimes gets set on the backburner, people like Belkis and her passion for mental health are not only needed, but imperative.

Contact:

@BCPhenRo www.belkisclarke.com

ALEXA OBREGON'S

go-to BEAUTY PRODUCTS

When it comes to curls, our Coastal Bend humidity isn’t always on board. Here is how this local woman tames her hair and skin in the climates of Corpus

BY: ALEXA OBREGON PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

After moving from Austin to Corpus Christi, my daily routine stayed fairly consistent: Drink copious amounts of water, eat whole foods, exercise, and (mom’s voice in my head) ALWAYS moisturize. Smiling, surfing, and a good glass of wine help, too! However, I soon discovered I had to adjust for a new consideration. How do I tame these curls when the winds are howling and humidity levels regularly hover around the 90 percent mark? Sticking to my life-long discovery of rules for curly hair, some tough love from my Deva stylist, and a few slight adjustments to my products, I think I have finally landed on the perfect solution. With that out of the way, let’s load up the boards and check out the surf!

DevaCurl Super Cream

A little of this product goes a long way. After spending a few hours in the salt water, my hair tends to dry out. It provides just the right amount of weight to keep curls well-defined but still bouncy and light. Product available at Ulta, $28

DevaCurl Shampoo & Conditioner (NoPoo Decadence/One Condition Delight)

The first piece of advice I received from my stylist was to stop shampooing my hair so often, and to make sure my products don’t contain sulfates. I now only shampoo about once a week, but condition regularly. Both these products fit the bill, are creamy and

lather-free, and leave my hair feeling oh so soft. Products available at Ulta, $24

Kevin Murphy Motion Lotion

It was love at first application with Kevin Murphy products. They smell great, do their job, and last all day. When I discovered they were now being sold here in Corpus Christi, I rushed to stock up on my fave. I combine a bit of this with my Deva products to add a bit more hold to fight the frizzies. Product available at Blowdry Therapy, $27.50

Eminence Citrus Lip Balm

The salt water does no favors for my lips, which often become dry and chapped. This lip balm with Shea butter provides plenty of

conditioning, a perfect sheen, and a bit of plumpness. Product available from Eminenstore.com, $24

Los Poblanos Lavender Salve

Crafted since 1930 with only 5 ingredients, this salve is the seamless end to a long day. I use it on feet, knees, elbows, and hands to keep dry skin at bay, and the lavender scent adds the perfect aromatherapy for drifting off to sleep. Product available at Los Poblanos Farm Shop, $22

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer

After years of shopping to find just the right amount of coverage that matches my skin tone and has SPF protection, my search finally

came to an end with this beauty of a product. It evens out my skin while keeping me looking fresh and natural. Is love too strong a word? Product available at Dillard’s, $46

Herbivore Citrine Oil

I’ll be the first to admit I may have a slight obsession with lotions and oils. The first and last part of my day includes moisturizing with a few favorite products, and this one is a must. It smells fantastic, and easily absorbs into my skin while providing a beautiful glow. Product available at Eleanor’s, $44

STRONGRockport

Find Your Place

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. Many homes are already rebuilt and more than 100 additional condo units are reopening soon. Hotel and condominium rental occupancy is expected to be back to 73% capacity by this summer and 95% of businesses are open!

The Rockport Fulton area is the perfect place for a weekend rental, a second home, or permanent place to settle down. Wake up to beautiful sunrises over the bay and breathe in the fresh, coastal air. This artistic and vibrant community offers a number of delicious restaurants and shopping centers as well. From waterfront, luxury homes to small weekend cottages, Rockport offers a little something for everyone. Be sure to find out why so many are finding themselves in Rockport.

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. Our Realtors have served Texas DeWitt County through the Cuero office as well as our Rockport office and all surrounding counties for many years, giving them the knowledge and experience to help you achieve your real estate goals.

CORPORATION

July 1, 1989 – July 1, 2019

May 25th, 2019 • 2:00PM - 11:00PM

The 23rd Annual Rockport Wine Festival features a myriad of delectable wines, craft beer, mouth-watering local cuisine, shopping vendors and live music featuring headliner, Cory Morrow, and sets by The Pictures and Another Level Tickets available on texasmaritimemuseum.org

NORTH PADRE ISLAND, TEXAS 361.729.2266

ROCKPORT, TEXAS

361.729.2266

PORT ARANSAS, TEXAS

361.749.2266

South Texas Since 1947

CORPUS

Gabriel Lopez, M.D.

“Making

Gabriel Lopez, M.D.

Board

Board Certified in Pain Medicine

Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Rudy Garza, M.D.

Are you suffering from Chronic Pain?

Dr. Lopez may be able to help.

Board Eligible 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

* Treating all types of chronic pain

* 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.

* Both Drs. are fluent in Spanish

SPID Corpus Christi, TX 78415

• Accepting new patients by self or physician referral depending on insurance.

Corpus Christi, TX 78415

Located bet ween Kostor yz & Weber)

Located bet ween Kostor yz & Weber) www.ccpainmed.com | “Se Habla Español”

• 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

Board Certified in Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology 3825 SPID Corpus Christi, Tx 78415

Board Certified in Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology 3825 SPID Corpus Christi, Tx 78415 (Located between Kostoryz & Weber) 361.225.0089 • www.ccpainmed.com • “Se Habla Español”

HOME & GARDEN

mid-century MODERNcomfort

A personality-filled home has a way of drawing others in

BY: JACQUELINE GONZALEZ

PHOTOS BY: JASON PAGE

when work is done, there’s one destination that people seek – home. For Sandrine Mazet, home is not only a place of refuge, but a place that reflects her personality, taste, and style. Using culture and travel destinations as an inspiration for the interior design of her house, she expresses the lifestyle factors that make her personality, and home, unique.

Built in 1947 and formerly owned by an architect, the mid-century style home, located in the Lindale Park subdivision, was structurally attractive for an art and history buff. The open floor plan combines modern and vintage styles to represent an aesthetically pleasing and comfortable home. To achieve her desired effect, she believes arranging furniture, dressed in earth tones and occasional pops of color, adds a burst of personality to the space. As homage to her upbringing, Mazet holds fast to the “no television in the living room” rule. Good conversation and quality time are at the root of the home’s heart.

Hailing from Paris, France, she’s quite the well-traveled soul, with trinkets acquired from cherished places and family added to her decor. Decorative pieces such as rugs, tapestries, wall accents, and upcycled furniture that are directly linked to her cultural background and travel locations make it feel more like home. A few piec es made by her grandfather also add a nostalgic vibe.

Of the many interesting, conversation-starting pieces in her home, Mazet points out that “everything has a story or a memory linked to it.” For example, a simple pottery vase was made by a former student and resonates with her personality, making it the perfect addition.

The mid-century home is also adorned with a di verse collection of mixed media. Textured rugs and a combination of colors and prints give the living room a touch of personality without overpowering the earthy tones. White accent pillows with multi-colored polka dots make a couch pop, while a striped rug provides a friendly echo of color while allowing contrasting prints to mix well.

Adequate lighting adds the perfect finishing touch to any room. Mazet states, “You can have the most beautiful room with lighting, but lamps and side lighting add warmth to the house.” Lamps in varying shapes, styles, and sizes are displayed throughout the home. Each one adds a balance to the vintage, historical, and artistic value of every room.

A lover of culture, Mazet adorns her walls with bookcases to showcase an impressive collection of worldly literature of all genres and time periods. Although her ideal library would consist of a floor-to-ceiling display, she compromised with sleek bookcases consisting of clean lines and glass shelves, allowing the literature to take center stage.

Although she loves all art, she is partial to local art. Paintings from local artists, in Corpus Christi and various travel locations, are peppered throughout her home.

The sun room, located directly outside the living room, provides a warm, relaxing haven after a long day. The natural light emanating from the tall windows makes the area feel open and inviting, while also providing ample light for reading, relaxing, or listening to music. In order to maximize benefit from the large windows, Mazet placed her curtain rods low in the window frame

to allow a non-restricted entrance to embrace the lighting changes throughout the day. Shelves with records, a vintage record player, and chairs transform part of the sun room space into a music den, allowing for the ultimate area of Zen.

In contrast to the remainder of the home, her bedroom and office both exude a softer, quiet aesthetic. Mazet opted for a tranquil vibe with muted shades of gray and white, with minimal furniture and decorative pieces. Posters from exhibits and films she’s attended over the years adorn the walls, adding a touch of her love of the arts to the neutral tones in the bedroom.

Her office displays a lime green sofa that sits low to the ground, providing a vibrant contrast to the white walls. The curtains are wider and higher than most American-styled curtains, reflecting a nod to her home in France. The real eye-catching piece in the office sits in the form of a large unfinished wood desk, measuring at 3 meters by 3 meters. The desk was made for her by a friend during her time in New York, and holds the same measurements as the large picture window in the loft she lived in, allowing her to have the per fect view of the city as she worked. A tapestry from Cameroon connects the office to the cultural vibe of her home.

Although a challenge, Mazet mastered the art of storytelling through memorabilia, décor, and art, making her home a wonderful place to live.

the Spirit of LadyBird

Wildflowers are blooming in the Coastal Bend

BY: JUSTIN BUTTS PHOTO COURTESY OF: FRANK WOLFE/LBJ LIBRARY, VIA ASSOCIATED PRESS

Each spring, the highways and country roads of Texas burst into vibrant colors with the blooming of the wildflowers. The person perhaps most responsible for these roadside wildflowers was a painfully shy woman named Lady Bird.

Lady Bird was married to Lyndon Baines Johnson, who was president in the 1960s. LBJ was a political genius, but he was abrasive, to put it mildly. Lady Bird, however, was a model of courtesy and kindness. Lyndon wanted to be king, but Lady Bird was the grace and good manners behind the throne.

LBJ was elected to Congress in 1937 and then to the Senate in 1948. Lady Bird was expected to help him campaign, but she was terrified of speaking in public. Instead of making speeches, Lady Bird initiated a softer campaign – a campaign of flowers.

Lady Bird’s idea was to plant wildflowers along the new roads springing up across Texas. Flowers were not political, but the members of the garden clubs were the leading ladies of their towns, and by connecting with them, Lady Bird gently advanced her husband’s career.

Lady Bird would drive to cities across Texas to meet with garden clubs. The ladies would visit over coffee or tea, then divide up their seeds, get into their cars, and drive in caravans down country roads, throwing wildflower seeds out the windows. Lady Bird would throw her seeds, wave to the ladies, and keep driving to the next town to do it again.

This was the dawn of the roadside wildflower movement: the women of garden clubs going out in their roadsters and convertibles tossing bluebonnet seeds out the windows.

When LBJ became president, he put the federal government behind Lady Bird with the Highway Beautification Act of 1965. Today, more than one hundred thousand people per year visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center outside of Austin, Texas.

If you want to add wildflowers to your landscape here in the Coastal Bend, some of the best choices are bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, winecup, black-eyed Susans, evening primrose, firewheel, sunflowers, and many others.

There are wildflowers for every season. First, determine the space you would like to add wildflowers – the side of the road, a meadow, or a garden bed –and the type of soil, rainfall, and shade in that area. Next, go to wildflower.org (the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center) for instructions on what, when, and how to plant plus where to find wildflower seeds.

The spirit of Lady Bird blooms each spring in rivers of yellow, red, and blue down the long gray highways of Texas. Let your spirit bloom for years to come in your landscape with your very own wildflowers!

Lady Bird Johnson in a field of wild flowers in the Texas Hill Country on May 10, 1990.

Distinctive Landscapes Start Here...

At McNamee, our business is all about the customer. Let us become your private consultant, expert resource and problem solver.

Landscape Design & Installation, Stonework & Hardscapes, Outdoor Kitchens, Poolscapes & Patios, Sprinkler Systems & Drainage Systems, Nursery, Stone & Boulder

Call for your free consultation: (361) 528-2759

Landscape Design & Installation, Stonework & Hardscapes, Outdoor Kitchens, Poolscapes & Patios, Sprinkler Systems & Drainage Systems, Nursery, Stone & Boulder Yard

160 U.S. Highway 181 West Taft, TX 78390 www.mcnameelandscapesandnursery.com

LESS really is MORE

Corpus native shares her recipes and reasons for a lower waste method of cleaning

WORDS & PHOTOS BY:

STACY SULLIVAN

Simple living has always been something very important to me. The art of slowing down and working with your own two hands allows you to appreciate the process more.

Working on my own homemade recipes began as just a small experiment and quickly intrigued me more and more. I thought about just how clueless I was to most of the ingredients found in the majority of our store bought products. Going “low-waste” in our home was more than just cutting out single use plastic items, it was about simplifying the way my family lived on a day to day basis.

By creating these homemade recipes, I am able to account for every ingredient present in the process, using only non-toxic/chemical free ingredients that work just as well and are just as powerful as any store bought product.

By doing this, I create more with so much less. This is an amazing way to practice simplicity and get the most out of items and ingredients that may already be in your cabinets at home.

Choosing the ingredients for my recipes are always done with great benefits in mind.

I want to get the most out of what I’m using and also educate myself on the reasons why I’m choosing these ingredients. Everything that goes into these recipes is free from any harmful toxins, which was most important to me, being a mother to my little girl.

The majority of these ingredients are all natural and are beneficial for more than one type of usage.

CITRUS PEELS: contains natural oils that are tough on surfaces which makes using them for cleaning purposes beneficial.

SWEET ALMOND OIL: contains vitamins that help keep your skin cells healthy and protect from sun exposure.

WHITE VINEGAR: contains nutrients and can help with skin inflammation and other related issues. It’s a versatile ingredient and can be used in various recipes.

BAKING SODA: can help to treat heartburn, skin irritations and is a typical household item everyone should keep. It also helps pull toxins from the air naturally.

ESSENTIAL OILS: are so beneficial for many reasons. They help with inflammation, pain relief, skin irritations, boosting your immune system, improving your moods which ultimately create a positive atmosphere for you and they also help with providing better sleeping and relaxation patterns.

+RECIPES

CITRUS INFUSED ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER:

The simplest way to have an amazing non-toxic cleaner that works so well and is a great way to put something to further use than just throwing those peels away.

Place a decent amount of citrus peels into a jar/ container of your choice and fill with some white vinegar.

Let sit for at least two weeks, then dilute with equal parts of water.

You can also add any essential oil of your choice and you’ve got yourself a new best friend on your cleaning days!

LAUNDRY DETERGENT:

1 bar of soap (fully grated)

I used the lavender bar soap from Dr. Bronner’s but you could absolutely use unscented or any other soap bar of your choice.

1 cup of washing soda

1 cup of baking soda

You could also use an essential oil of your choice as well either in this mix or right into your washing machine, but it’s completely optional.

Just mix all ingredients together in your desired container and give a good shake to mix well!

I add about 1/4 cup per load of laundry.

LIQUID DISH/HAND SOAP:

Pour 1/2 cup of filtered water into desired soap dispenser. If you don’t have filtered water available, boil some water and let cool before continuing these steps.

Pour 1 tablespoon of white vinegar into the bottle and lightly stir to mix well.

Pour half a cup of Sal Suds into the bottle.

Pour 1 tablespoon of moisturizing oil into bottle (I used sweet almond oil).

This will allow your hands to stay soft once they have dried!

Add 8-10 drops of essential oil of your choice (I used lavender)

ISave Your Natural Tooth!

Has your dentist told you that you need root canal treatment?

If so, you’re not alone. Millions of teeth are treated and saved each year with root canal, or endodontic, treatment. Watch our videos at southtexasendo.com to learn more!

nside the tooth, under the white enamel and a hard layer called the dentin, is a soft tissue called the pulp. The pulp contains blood vessels, nerves and connective tissue, and helps to grow the root of your tooth during development. In a fully developed tooth, the tooth can survive without the pulp because the tooth continues to be nourished by the tissues surrounding it. Contrary to jokes about the matter, modern endodontic treatment is very similar to having a routine filling and usually can be completed in one or two appointments, depending on the condition of your tooth and your personal circumstances. You can expect a comfortable experience during and after your appointment. We also provide nitrous, oral and IV sedation for the anxious patient.

If you are given a choice between root canal treatment or tooth extraction, always choose root canal treatment. Dentistry has yet to produce a denture, bridge or implant that looks, feels and functions as well as a natural tooth. Never choose extraction because you think it will be quicker! Endodontic treatments generally require one to two visits lasting less than an hour each. An extraction requires one visit, but the denture, bridge or implant will require several additional visits with your dentist. Never choose extraction because you think it will be cheaper! When a natural tooth is extracted, it must be replaced with an artificial tooth to prevent other teeth from shifting, and to prevent future dental problems. The cost of a denture, bridge or implant, plus the extraction, often is higher than the cost of an endodontic procedure that would save the tooth for years to come. Most dental insurance plans cover endodontic treatment.

Call South Texas Endodontics:

Saving the natural tooth with root canal treatment has many advantages such as:

• Efficient chewing

• Protects other teeth from excessive wear or strain

• Natural appearance

• Normal biting force and sensation so you can continue to eat your favorite foods

• Limits the need for costlier, ongoing dental work

We want you to have the best experience possible in saving your natural teeth. Dr. Anthony, Dr. King (Board Certified) and Staff are here to answer your questions. If you have any questions about root canal procedures, you can visit our website at southtexasendo.com or call us at 361-992-7871.

We want you to have the best experience possible in saving your natural teeth. Dr. Anthony, Dr. King (Board Certified), Dr. Robles (Board Certified) and staff are here to answer your questions. If you have any questions about root canal procedures, you can visit our webstie at southtexasendo.com or call us at 361-992-7871.

• Increased Sensitivity and Intensity of Orgasm

• Increased Lubrication

• Improve Bladder Control

• Increase ability to have a Vaginal Orgasm

• Dramatic and Long lasting results.

• Improve Vaginal Moisture

• Reduced Urinary Leakage

Increased Vaginal Sensitivity

Strengthen Vaginal Muscles

• Tighter Vaginal Canal

• Improve Labial Appearance

• Comfortable, In-Office Treatment

OUT & ABOUT

ARTS & CULTURE 74 CELEBRATION 78 DATEBOOK 80 SOCIAL HOUR 82

From desk calendars to Corpus-centric merch, the newest designer in town is creating minimal designs that have a whole lot of life and personality. Ilavarasi Shenbagamoorthy, of Ila Designs, is leaving her mark on our city, one design at a time.

CUSTOM CURATIONS

Graphic design guru offers international influence to the Coastal Bend

BY: KIRBY TELLO

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Recently, the new CC Blissbox – filled with all local goodies – added a new designer to its roster. Ilavarasi Shenbagamoorthy of Ila Designs contributed one of her calendar designs for the box. With its uniquely modern and edgy flair, it’s no wonder her art is generating a lot of buzz. Word on the street was that Shenbagamoorthy had an equally distinctive story about how she ended up in Corpus Christi, so we set out to learn more about her story.

From a very young age, Shenbagamoorthy was passionate about design. Back in India, her father owns a printing press, where she used to spend summer breaks sketching, learning design software, and understanding the commercial printing process. This passion led her to pursue a master's degree in Fine Arts, which only furthered the development of her skills. After graduation, she interned for an advertisement agency and later worked with her dad for a couple of years. It was these experiences that helped her learn about the importance of understanding the link between printing and designing.

Shenbagamoorthy’s first big break came when she was asked to design her sister’s wedding card. It was very well received, which prompted her to start designing invitations and logos for friends and family. Slowly, she gathered the confidence to start a business specializing in designing and branding.

Being a freelance graphic designer, Shenbagamoorthy gets to work on projects which are completely different from each other. Therefore, every day she gets to design something new. Part of what she loves about running her own design business is that she is constantly learning and updating herself on new trends to ensure her work is relevant and desirable. Her husband’s work requires the two of them to move a lot, so the best part of working for herself is that she can take it wherever they go.

Shenbagamoorthy mostly works with clients for branding, logo design, package design, invitations, and custom designs. Additionally, she offers consultations for printing. She is currently working on developing stationery items that she will eventually sell through online platforms such as Etsy.

It was through Instagram that Shenbagamoorthy became familiar with CC Blissbox. “It seemed like a novel way to promote what South Texas has to offer,” she explains, “and I was inspired on how the community supports its local artists and their businesses.” Being an entrepreneur herself, she reached out to them with the hope of including her 2019 Calendar in their next monthly box.

Currently, Shenbagamoorthy sells her products through Etsy, and is in the processes of increasing her online presence.

Overall, she sets the bar sky-high for her career. And for good reason. Her designs foster this happy disposition that makes opening one of her products a sheer joy. As a new customer myself (I purchased her 2019 calendar bookmarks before this interview), I was delighted with her attention to detail, even down to the packaging.

For now, Shenbagamoorthy is focused on helping develop strong and functional brands through her designs. Longterm, however, she sets her sights on creating her own line of stationery items.

With an eye for aesthetics and her keenness for attention to details, her products not only look beautiful, but help us all fall a little bit more in love with where we live and the local artisans that call the Coastal Bend home.

A COASTAL TEXASWEDDING

How one couple celebrated their love with a beachy backdrop, tons of greenery, and a whole lot of line dancing

BY: JOANNE HOWELL PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

The sweetest couple, Leslie and Carson, made for the sweetest night. The pair celebrated their love with friends and family for one beautiful occasion. Guests gathered on the lawn at Cinnamon Shore for the intimate ceremony where the two exchanged vows and promised to love one another forever. The sun was shining and so was the love.

After the ceremony, guests partied the night away. Overflowing florals and greenery dressed the tables in the reception area. Succulents and light colored linens contrasted with the navy color seen in wedding party clothing and other details throughout the wedding. With the coastal back drop of Cinnamon Shore, the evening had a relaxing vibe, yet bursting with excitement.

Rows of lights were strung across the reception area to create a fairytale-like atmosphere. Guests enjoyed a down-home BBQ dinner followed by lots of line dancing and true Texas spins. A country band played everyone’s old and new favorites all evening long. Boots and heels danced the night away as the sun set. Sparks flew as the bride and groom made their getaway under the Texas stars for their happily ever after.

EVENT DETAILS:

Wedding Design and Coordination:

JoAnne Howell, Oh Goodie Designs + Events

Venue: Cinnamon Shore, Port Aransas

Floral: Sandra Sauceda

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.

-AMERICAN BANK

COMMUNITY

Big Bloom Plant Sale April 6th

Join the South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center for their annual Big Bloom Plant Sale and Garden Festival! Shop their mega plant sale (seriously, it is mega), peruse local vendor booths, experience a butterfly and a ladybug release, reptile shows, learning activities for the kids, and so much more!

South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, 8545 S Staples St.

ARTS

2019 Record Store Day at Hybrid Records April 13th

Our favorite local record store is celebrating Record Store Day for the fourth year in a row! Join Hybrid Records as they bring in hundreds of limited edition vinyl records released exclusively for Record Store Day and only available to purchase from independently owned retailers. There will be exclusive Hybrid Records merch, food from Well Fed food truck, all vinyl DJs, live music, and free beer from Rebel Toad!

Hybrid Records, 4233 S Alameda

EVENTS TO KNOW

COMMUNITY

Texas SandFest 2019 April 26th

If you love sand castles, community gatherings, and fun in the sun, the Texas SandFest is the best event for you to check out! Go out and enjoy the Texas Gulf Coast while viewing art and architecture from master sculptors from all over the country. There are tons of activities for the whole family, an amateur sculptor contest, and tons of vendors selling various types of goods!

Port Aransas Beach, Marker 8 Entrance

FESTIVAL

Fiesta de la Flor April 12th

It’s that time of year! People from both near and far will gather to celebrate the Queen of Tejano, for the fifth year in a row! In honor of Selena Quintanilla’s life and legacy, the festival will feature a two-day live music lineup, fireworks, a kids zone with tons of activities, food trucks, a conversation with Suzette Quintanilla and Adrienne Bailon, a market filled with vendors, the Tejano Low Rider Extravaganza, and tons more!

North Bayfront Park, 1590 Shoreline Blvd

BENEFIT

GROW Local South Texas: Farm to Table Fundraiser April 16th

Join GROW Local South Texas for their annual fundraiser dinner! This year’s theme is Paella in the Pasture and will feature a multi-course dinner in the very gardens that will provide some of the menu’s 100% locally sourced ingredients. The evening will benefit the GROW Local organization!

Thunder Cattle Ranch

BENEFIT

WIGOUT 2019 April 27th

K Space Contemporary’s annual fundraiser WigOut will be held at the Bay Jewel, just down the street from K Space! This year’s event is sure to be totally radical with an '80s theme! Bust out those shoulder pads and leg warmers and put on your favorite wig for this awesome benefit! The event will feature a silent auction, door prices, original works of art and more! This fundraiser helps support the gallery’s educational and outreach programs. The Bay Jewel, 624 Mesquite St

HALO FLIGHT CASINO NIGHT

1. Eric Brunkenhoefer, Sarah Brunkenhoefer, Tim Clark, & Chelsea Greer

2. Jim Wells Sheriff Daniel Bueno, Hilma Bueno, Duval Sheriff Romeo Ramirez, & Sally Ramirez

3. Leo Rios, Dee Dee Cortez, Jimmy Cortez, Brittney Blanco, & Clint Nivison

4. Jose Gonzalez, Lisa Gonzalez, Yvonne Garza, & Leonard Garza

5. Terri Allison, Sandra Allison, Damla Eytemiz, & David Gibson

6. Susan Clark, Trey Clark, Holly Lewis, & Russel Johnson,

PHOTOS BY: AARON GARCIA

CORPUS CHRISTI HEART BALL

7. Richard Blackler, Lynne Blackler, Dr. Barbara Szczerbinska, Russell Franques, Marcos Arreola, Dr. Nelly Garcia Blow, Dr. Osbert Blow, & Monica Arreola 2. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 7. 6.

3. Nova Herin, Lynn Barker, Glenda Worthley, & Paula Kessler

4. Darcy & Sheldon Schroeder

5. Joshua & Kelly Badenhop, Christopher, & Christina Clark

6. Erin Wilder, Katharine Guerra, Marcy Rodriguez, & Katie Reese

1. Dr. Michael Neff, Karen Neff, Diane LaRue & John LaRue

2. Frankie Hicks, Dr. Paul & Mallory Heath, & Dr. George Fisher

CUISINE

a journey for CURRY

CONNECTING PEOPLE TO THE FOOD AND FOOD TO THE PLACE

BY: JUSTIN & KAYLA BUTTS PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Curry is meant to be eaten with the fingers of the right hand. The touch of the fingers creates a connection, a closeness to the food.

Curry was our daily fare while trekking with horses through the Himalayan Mountains. We hiked up and down the perilous trails in blue skies or drenching rain, the shaggy black horses swaying under their loads, my hunger growling all day in the thin air.

Each night, the porter would build a fire from dried cow dung to cook curry with kidney beans and okra which he served to us on dented tin platters. My guide delighted himself in teaching me the foulest curse words in the Hindi language, and I shouted them into the night to the uproarious laughter of our little band as the ashes from the fire rose to a million glittering stars shining in the black.

We stopped at villages along the way so I could study their farming techniques. These modest farmers, illiterate and impoverished yet geniuses with the soil, were impeccable hosts. Sitting in the upper room of a house, the farm wife served me a glass of mint tea with a dollop of freshly-churned butter dropped into the cup while the husband started a fire in the Franklin stove to prepare curd curry in a pressure cooker.

Two teenaged boys sat cross-legged in the corner giggling as they rolled hashish balls into a large pile. This particular preserve was part of the stock laid by to get this family through five long months of winter trapped in this tiny house. I sat on a threadbare rug and ate the yellow curry with my fingers, my stomach churning the curds and butter, and smiled and bowed my gratitude.

We stopped in a tea house for guides, some of the best mountaineers in the world, and sat around a table with our heads down eating a dark red curry so spicy that my face sweated and cheeks flushed and my breath came as hyperventilation. The heat of that curry kept even the bones warm at those frozen heights. Kayla’s red curry recipe is most like this one, but with the heat dialed down to the lowest setting.

There is no one curry of India, or of the mountains, or even of a village. Each family, and even members of the same family, have their own curry.

The coriander, cumin, and turmeric are ground differently or added to the cooking process at different stages. There are more or less chili spices, perhaps water or coconut milk or dry, with beans or eggs or curds or chicken, plus a variety of vegetables or none at all--infinite possibilities. No two are just alike, even cooked by the same person on different days.

At the guest house at the end of the line, we ate green curry with lentils served on 19th century china in the extravagant luxury of an English tea room. That curry was so good that it was ruinous, damning all the curries to follow, until this green curry recipe by Kayla, our closest approximation.

Eating curry with the fingers, in the Indian style, connects the person to the food and to the place. This is true whether sitting on a farmer’s floor in the Himalayas or at a farmer’s table in Rockport, or any place in the world where good people love great food.

Traditional Red Chicken Curry

Serves 4

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients:

1 tsp coriander seeds

12 cardamom pods, with husks removed

(~ 1 tsp ground cardamom)

3/4 tsp cumin seeds

1 tbsp olive oil

2 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken

breasts and thighs

2 tsp salt, plus 1 tsp

1 tsp ground black pepper, plus ½ tsp

1 tbsp butter

1 onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated

1 tbsp curry powder

1 tsp garam masala

1 tsp turmeric

½ - 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

1/2 cup plain yogurt

1 cup chicken stock

1 bunch fresh cilantro

1 lemon

Directions:

Over low heat, roast coriander, cardamom, and cumin seeds, stirring regularly, until fragrant. Remove from heat, and grind spices using a grinder or mortar and pestle. Preheat olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper and add it to the pan in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Cook the chicken until brown (about 6 minutes on each side), but not cooked through. Set chicken aside and cut into bite-size pieces once cool. Add butter and onions to the pan and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for 30 additional seconds. Once garlic is fragrant, add the chicken, ground spice mixture, additional salt and pepper, and remaining ingredients. Heat to a boil, then decrease heat and simmer for 30 minutes. Serve curry over rice or with naan, topped with fresh cilantro and sliced lemon.

Green Chicken Curry with Lentils

Serves 4

Prep time: 7 minutes

Inactive prep time: 30 minutes to 8 hours

Cook time: 45 minutes

Ingredients:

2 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast and thighs

(cut into bite-size pieces)

1 medium onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp brown sugar

2 tsp curry powder

2 tsp salt

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

1 tsp garam masala

1 tsp cardamom

1 tsp turmeric

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp ground coriander

2 tbsp olive oil

3 tbsp butter

2 cups chicken broth

Optional: 3/4 cup split lentils, rinsed (if omitted, reduce chicken broth to 1 cup)

1 can (about 13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk

Directions:

In a leak-proof sealable bag, combine chicken, onion, garlic, and spices. Invert bag several times to combine ingredients. Marinate in the refrigerator for 30 minutes up to 8 hours. In a large sauté pan, melt butter in olive oil over medium heat. Once the butter has melted and becomes fragrant, add marinated chicken, chicken stock, and lentils to the pan. Cook 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low-medium, add in coconut milk, and simmer (taking care not to boil) mixture for another 10 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and lentils are tender. Serve curry over prepared basmati rice or with naan, garnished with cilantro or basil and lemon wedges.

BLOOM CITY SENSATION

Bloom City Coffee’s newest location in Portland – the café – welcomes “guests,” not customers, and greets them with top-notch hospitality. “We are not just here to serve drinks, we are here to make our guests feel like part of our family,” says co-owner Thomas Wooldridge.

In this modern setting, guests won’t only find friendly and familiar faces. Offering a higher-end menu of coffees and food items than the Bloom City Counter at the HEB in Portland, the café brings a “fine dining expe rience to coffee,” Wooldridge says. While the counter continues to serve trendy American coffee drinks, such as frappuccinos, the café serves coffee in a more traditional style.

A macchiato consists of two ounces of espres so with milk foam on top, and all lattes at the café come only in a 12-ounce serving size. Simplicity is the theme of the menu, to keep the experience less complicated than other popular coffee joints for loyal guests.

Bloom locally sources ingredients, including fresh, cream-top milk from Waco and honey from a native Portland bee keeper. They make all sauces and syrups in house. “These efforts may seem small, but we’re doing it different than most other businesses in Portland, and that will make a difference,” says Wooldridge.

All of Bloom’s coffee recipes are dialed in to maximize the taste of the coffee itself. A lot of effort goes into roasting the beans, which come from all around the world. It’s a handson experience, with no more than six pounds of coffee roasted at one time.

The cool atmosphere and food items only add to the café’s allure. Wi-fi is available to all guests, with outlets at each table for electronic devices. All-day food offerings include a sun rise panini, which has been described as the best breakfast sandwich around, and a chick en salad wrap made with a lemon-poppy seed dressing. And new to the menu are “Bloo mology” offerings – two mocktails made with coffee or tea, including a “dark and stormy” in which the bourbon is replaced with a Costa Rican coffee with a whiskey influence.

The drive-thru at Bloom is set up in its own part of the building, with its own equipment and staff, so there is never interruption be tween café guests and drive-thru guests, and hardly even a slowdown in the lane outside. “We put in the extra effort, and our guests will come back for it,” says Wooldridge.

Contact:

1600 Wildcat Dr, Portland, TX 78374

@bloomcitycoffee | @bloomcitycounter

DINING GUIDE

AMERICAN

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

ASIAN

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

BAR&GRILL

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

CAFÉ

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

FRENCH

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

ITALIAN

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

MEXICAN

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

SEAFOOD

BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL $$$

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

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

STEAKHOUSE

KATZ 21 $$$

Sets the standard for premier fine dining experience. Prime steakhouse specializes in dryaged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood. 5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, Katz21.com

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

THAI

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

CHOPS&EGGS does it again

The re-opened restaurant continues to deliver beautiful farm-fresh dishes

BY: LAURA SHAVER

PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

This past January, when Chops and Eggs re-opened on the Southside of Corpus Christi, it opened the doors to firefighters and the police force for the first two days. “We wanted to give back to our community and to say ‘Thank you’ to all of those who helped us out in our time of need,” says Jordan Jaradat, owner.

It was over two years ago that the original location of Chops and Eggs had to close its doors after a devastating fire. In its new, larger location, Chef Jordan is still serving up the signature breakfast and midday dishes that the community of Corpus Christi has come to love and crave. “The menu is the same, that is one thing that will never change,” says Jaradat.

Chops and Eggs offers modern American food with a country twist, and the chef’s – and public’s – favorites remain the Crab Cake Benedict served with a chipotle cream sauce, Corned Beef Hash, and the Chicken and Waffles. The bar hosts a selection of beer and wine, and customers can bring their own liquor into the restaurant, if they prefer.

The menu does include a few additions in terms of steaks for dinner: Beef and lamb filet mignons, bone-in tomahawks, T-bones, and pork shanks are now served from 3:00 to 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and until midnight on the weekends. Known for all of their lamb options, Chops and Eggs also offers lamb, duck, turkey, and pork bacon.

But the entire menu boasts many options, including fresh picks for vegetarians and children, as well as items that are gluten free and/or low fat.

Everything is farm fresh and made to order. Your meal might take 20 to 30 minutes to prepare, but as Jaradat says, “You wouldn’t

rush your momma in the kitchen.” Chops and Eggs uses high-pressure fryers, a healthier option for fried food that uses less oil and cooks by pressure, not heat. “I insisted on providing our community a healthy option when choosing to dine out,” says Jaradat.

Jaradat and his brother, Ramzi Sukkar, opened Chops and Eggs with culinary experience gained through education in Minnesota and at the University of Southern California. After arriving in Corpus Christi, they opened Ginger Café so Corpus Christi could experience authentic Mediterranean food.

Jaradat and Sukkar designed Chops and Eggs with an aesthetic appeal, and 90 percent of the equipment and décor was made in the U.S.A. The new location also offers a banquet room that can privately seat up to 40 people.

While fresh food of this quality may take some time to prepare, customers can limit their wait by visiting chopsandeggs.com and placing their names on the list. With one click, they can see how long the wait is and plan their arrival accordingly, ready to devour succulent dishes in a family oriented environment.

Contact:

5802 Yorktown Blvd B107, Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Chopsandeggs.com | Gingercafeandgrill.com

LOOKING BACK

A New Cathedral for a Growing City

BY: JILLIAN BECQUET PHOTO COURTESY OF: CORPUS CHRISTI PUBLIC LIBRARIES

If you’re unfamiliar with the city’s history, the name – meaning “body of Christ” – and the presence of Corpus Christi Cathedral, it probably makes you think of the many Spanish missions built across Texas. It would make sense, given our location near the border on land disputed in the Mexican-American War…but the Corpus Christi Cathedral didn’t witness any of that.

Mass was held in the city from the mid-1800s, and served settlers from many places, from all over the U.S. to Mexico, Europe, and other far-off places. In the 1850s, Father O’Reilly’s parishioners worshiped at St. Patrick’s Church. When the Diocese of Corpus Christi was formed, St. Patrick’s became its cathedral. With growth of the city and a fire at St. Patrick’s, the bishops sought to build a new cathedral and the Kenedy family donated the land it sits on today.

The Spanish Mission-style cathedral, named Corpus Christi Cathedral at the order of Pope Pius XII, was dedicated July 17, 1940. The name St. Patrick was given to a new congregation, with elements of the building being reassembled to become Our Lady Star of the Sea Church.

With glazed terra-cotta domes, a 32-bell carillon, beautiful marble sculptures, and Spanish tile work, the cathedral stood out at its location high on the bluff. Its Irish history is commemorated by the green marble baptismal font. Even if it’s only as old as Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, the history of Corpus Christi Cathedral is rich and being built, even today.

The Corpus Christi Cathedral’s front façade, as it looked in 1941.