October 2015

GREAT SCOTT! A LOOK BACK AT CORPUS CHRISTI IN 1985

Against The Odds YOGA 101

5 inspirational stories of hope & healing

How to bend around The Bend

CAMP 72

Local filmmaker seeks justice

Azyluh Ramirez

Overcame Unbalanced Atrioventricular Canal Heart Defect

Turn Back The Clock On Aging Say farewell to aging, sagging, age spots, facial lines & hair.

Carmen Casas, MD Board CertiďŹ ed Dermatologist 5756 S. Staples St. Ste. J1 WE ACCEPT CARECREDIT

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The most unique jewelry store in South Texas. Family owned and operated since 1979. All Opal and Pink Tourmaline is 10% off during the month of October!

4940 Gollihar Road, Corpus Christi, Texas 361.991.7054 www.casadeorojewelers.com

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PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

MARKETING DESIGN: Taco Creative

ART DIRECTOR: Julio Studios

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Durrent

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick

PHOTOGRAPHY: Dustin Ashcraft Jason Page Renée C. Gage Emily Willis

MANAGING EDITOR: Whitney Noble

DISTRIBUTION: Kevin Kusenberger

OPERATIONS MANAGER: Stefanie DeWaters

SUBMISSIONS: jordan@thebendmag.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Candace Reichert Nancy Roberts

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

CULINARY EDITORS: Justin & Kayla Butts

We’ve Gotcha Covered!

Complete Home Remodeling

CONTRIBUTORS: Madeline Schmidt Sharla Wilkins Jeff King Fares Sabawi

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

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Copyright © 2015 Gemstone Media, LLC. The Bend: Coastal Life Magazine is published by Gemstone Media, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without express written consent.

Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice, but is rather considered informative. Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.

CONNECT WITH US @ www.thebendmag.com

361.510.6181 5715 Christine St. Corpus Christi, 78415

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Y O U R H O M E S AY S A L O T A B O U T Y O U .

W E ’ R E H E R E TO L I S T E N .

Your home is a reflection of you. Ferguson’s product experts are here to listen to every detail of your vision, and we’ll work alongside you and your designer, builder or remodeler to bring it to life. Schedule a one-on-one consultation with us today.

CORPUS CHRISTI 5513 SARATOGA BLVD (361) 994-7426 ©2015 Ferguson Enterprises, Inc.

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7

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2015

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

AROUND THE BEND

CAMP 72

13

Event Calendar Heat Index Q&A with Charlie Boeckman Social Hour

43

BACK FROM THE FUTURE

46

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

31

AGAINST THE ODDS

Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra

GIVING BACK

34

YOGA 101

Behind the Scenes - Most Beautiful Women

HOME & GARDEN

79

Open House - Retro Renovation

LIVE WELL

87

Breast Cancer Awareness

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

BE A BETTER LISTENER

Cancer can take away all my physical ability. It cannot touch my mind; it cannot touch my heart; and it cannot touch my soul. And those three things are going to carry on forever.”

WITH INVISIBLE HEARING! PHYSICIAN REFERRED, PATIENT PREFERRED!

-Jim Valvano

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NEVER GIVE UP I am a self-proclaimed sports fanatic. There are a few teams I pull for, but I will watch any game, any time, anywhere. I check scores and updates almost religiously (a habit I am trying to kick) and tune into SportsCenter as often as my wife and daughter will allow.

October is especially wonderful, because football is in full swing. The stakes are higher and the competition is tougher. One win or loss could make or break an entire season. Sometimes I have to remind myself that, at the end of the day, it’s all just a game.

There are bigger battles people face on a daily basis, with the odds stacked against them and with much more at stake. If any good has come from my sports obsession, it came the night that I watched a rerun of the 1993 ESPY Awards. I was nearly brought to tears as Jim Valvano, or “Jimmy V,” gave his acceptance speech for the Arthur Ash Courage Award that year. Facing a terminal battle with cancer, he gave an inspirational speech ending with the proclamation, “don’t give up; don’t ever give up!” The speech inspired the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance that is given to a new recipient each year.

You probably saw the precious little girl on the cover of this month’s issue. Her name is Lulu Ramirez. She was born with a rare heart defect and, at only six years old, has undergone four heart surgeries. While reading her story, it reminded me of Jimmy V’s speech.

At each stage of her life, doctors warned Lulu’s parents she would not make it. However, Lulu never gave up. If anyone deserves an award for perseverance, it’s Lulu.

Lulu’s story is full of hope and inspiration for all of us. When it comes to our health or wellbeing, we all face different obstacles. Some are more severe and life threating, but they all affect us to some extent. I hope you discover within this issue that you are not alone in whatever battle you are facing or will face. There are people in our very community who have beat cancer, heart disease, depression, obesity, and many others. I hope you are inspired by their stories as much as we are and remember to never give up, don’t ever give up.

Try before Visit our you buy! website for your FREE Guide to Better Hearing

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- Jordan Regas Jordan@thebendmag.com

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Serving South Texas Since 1947

Chad Allen, DDS, MS Dr. Chad Allen has the ability to care for all of your dental needs and at one location!

He takes his time to get to know you personally and determine your fears and expectations. He strives to make your time in the dental chair as comfortable as possible. Call his office today to enhance your dental experience!

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General Dentists: Dr. Sarah Medina, DDS Dr. Arnoldo X. Cuellar, DDS Dr. Alex Vial-Nadeau, DMD Prosthodontist: Dr. Chad Allen, DDS, MS

Corpus Christi: Portland: (361) 854-7999 (361) 643-0416 525 Doddridge Corpus Christi, TX 101 Cox Drive, Portland, TX allendentalgroup.co

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Proven Agents, Proven results

13 homes on Key Allegro have sold/closed from Jan - July 2015. Of these, 26 “sides� (selling or buying), Key Allegro Coastal Luce Properties represented more buyers and sellers THAN ALL OTHER REAL ESTATE OFFICES IN ROCKPORT COMBINED! Talk to the agents that get results, not by accident, but by hard work, loyalty, determination and a strong work ethic.

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AROUND THE BEND HEAT INDEX. 18 - Q&A. 20 - SOCIAL HOUR. 22 - FURNITURE TRENDS. 27

In memory of Brooke Hester A true beauty - inside and out.

Photography by Brie

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5 THINGS

To Mark On Your Calendar

1.

MOONLIGHT IN THE GARDENS October 30th, 2015 South Texas Botanical Gardens www.stxbot.org

A casual evening packed with entertainment begins with Martian Music Bar and larger-than-ever Starlight Silent Auction with new Grand Galaxy high-end-item Blackboard Auction. Guests can visit the amazing new Samuel Jones Orchid Conservatory, and chat with talkative Exotic Parrots and their trainers. The Heavenly Butterfly Release in the Butterfly House, Illuminated Gardens, plus Nep-Tunes and dancing to multi-decade rock band, Flashback, round out this casual moonlit party. State Rep. Todd Hunter is program Master of Ceremonies. Appropriate attire is anything from faded denim to glitter and sequins--with comfortable shoes!

2.

ROCKPORT-FULTON SEAFAIR October 9th – 11th, 2015 Rockport Harbor www.rockportseafair.com

Forty years ago, the idea for Seafair was the brainchild of a Rockport man, Bill Christian. He believed the area needed a celebration in the fall to fill the lull between the summer visitors and the arrival of winter tourists. Though the event has grown since its creation, it remains very much the same as Christian envisioned it: a parade, arts and crafts, bands, water entertainment and a gumbo cook-off were part of the very first Seafair. Today they all remain major attractions.

Christian formed a Board of Directors, established a 501 c 4 nonprofit organization. In April of 2000, Pam Farley, President of Seafair at the time, came to a Rockport-Fulton Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meeting and requested that the Chamber of Commerce take it over. After much discussion, the Chamber Board voted to take on the event. That year during Seafair, the community experienced the coldest of cold fronts for that time period and four solid days of rain. It was shortly after that rained-out event that Bill Christian came into the office of the Chamber with a lot of encouraging words and a box full of Seafair history. The Chamber is committed to continuing the Seafair legacy and the wonderful ideas of Bill Christian.

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3.

TEXAS JAZZ FESTIVAL October 16th – 18th, 2015 Heritage Park www.texasjazz-fest.org The 55th Annual Texas Jazz Festival will be held Oct 16-18 at Heritage Park.

Enjoy fifty five bands with all flavors of jazz (Dixieland, Salsa, Big Band, Gospel, Blues, Latin jazz ) on three stages for three days. There will be over 50 food, arts, and crafts vendors. No entry fee!

4.

MAKING STRIDES AGAINST BREAST CANCER 5K WALK

Finish the fight

against breast cancer.

October 17th, 2015 Watergardens www.makingstrideswalk.org/ corpuschristitx

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer is the American Cancer Society’s premier event to fight breast cancer. Making Strides is a noncompetitive 5K walk that unites communities to honor and celebrate breast cancer survivors, to educate women about prevention and early detection, and to raise money to fund lifesaving research and support programs to help eliminate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease. 2015 marks Making Strides’ 7th year in Corpus Christi. Last year, over 15,500 participants helped raise over $440,000 in the fight against breast cancer. Become a part of something great! Join the fight on Saturday, October 17th. Registration begins at 7:30am. Opening ceremony starts at 8:30am. 5K noncompetitive walk begins promptly at 9am.

5.

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS October 31st, 2015 Downtown Corpus Christi www.diadelosmuertoscc.com The Dia de los Muertos celebration has gone on for centuries in Mexico. By presenting the Dia de los Muertos festival in Corpus Christi, we provide educational programming about our cultural diversity and an opportunity for each of us to learn about this rich cultural tradition of Mexico. They hope to create a connection to our past, as well as honor loved ones who have passed away. We invite all to come be a part of this amazing cultural festival! Now in the eighth year, the Dia de los Muertos Street Festival has grown to around 50,000+ in attendance. In its eight-year history, they have expanded from a single block party to include two blocks of Starr, Peoples and Chaparral Streets and three blocks of Mesquite Street in downtown Corpus Christi.

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Dr. Paul A. Kennedy, Jr. Dr. Paul A. Kennedy, III

Orthodontist:

Dr. Timothy A. Kuhlman

4 Locations

Oral Surgeon:

Saratoga Office:

Dr. Ronald R. Schlimmer Dr. Jia Woei Wang

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

Pediatric Dentists:

Alameda Office:

Dr. William B. Haley Dr. Maria B. Tiefenbach Dr. Nicole B. Pruitt Dr. Rosanna Puente Dr. Rex Wildey Dr. Jonathan Hanks

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

Calallen Office:

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

Enclave Office:

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

General Dentists:

paulkennedydds.com 361-992-9500

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Dr. Richard J. Campbell Dr. Alissa M. Hall Dr. Annie Rothe

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WHAT’S GETTING HOT AROUND THE BEND?

HEAT INDEX

AVIATORS MEMORIAL It’s always important and humbling to remember our fallen and honor them in any way we can. NAS Corpus Christi AMA is an organization that was founded to raise funds to erect a memorial dedicated to all aviators stationed at NAS Corpus Christi - those who have gone before us and paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our Nation.

This non-profit organization has taken donations for the memorial at Ropes Park on Shoreline Drive, which will be a 7ft tall bronze statue.

The statue, says naval flight instructor at NAS Chris Keech, already stands tall in California, where it all began after an F-18 pilot lost his friend in a crash and wanted to memorialize those who

LA PALMERA GOES SOUTHSIDE Bill Morris, developer behind La Palmera Mall, Corpus Christi’s hottest shopping center, has an upcoming project; a new center at the corner of S. Padre Island Drive and Rodd Field, where 600,000 square feet of upscale retail space will house premium retailers.

As Morris told KRIS 6 News, his goal is to give people an alternative to driving to other big cities for shopping by bringing more major brands to Corpus Christi. Rumored shops may include Anthropologie, Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel, Nordstrom, J. Crew, Banana Republic, Kate Spade, and maybe even an IKEA! But, patience is a virtue – estimated completion isn’t for another 2 years.

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have fallen. “However, the face of the Aviator is a catch all for every naval aviator and air crewman – great care was taken to compose the face to ensure it did not resemble one particular person,” explained Keech. The statue in Corpus will be surrounded by memorial grounds, filled with donor bricks of those who gave to the cause. Still in the fundraising stage, many huge supporters have been the aviation students, families of the fallen, local residents, and many businesses.

The project is nearly 40% funded. For donation or volunteering opportunities, please visit facebook.com/ NASCorpusChristiAMA or http:// corpuschristiaviatormemorial. com

LOCAL STARTUP MAKES GOOD MORNING AMERICA

Barry Gross founded BillCutterz in May 2009. It all started when Gross asked his longtime friend and mortgage banker, Mindy Niles, for help in lowering his mortgage bill. Following her advice, Gross negotiated his way into saving $180 per month for the rest of his mortgage.

Returning the favor, Gross cut Mindy’s telephone bill in half.

She was paying $66 per month for her simple landline telephone.

Barry had the exact same service, but was only paying $33 because he negotiated a lower rate. Barry called on Mindy’s behalf and lowered her bill 50% to match his at just $33 per month. Mindy was excited and she said, “Barry, you know, this could be a business!”

And now, Gross wants to save YOU money! He has brought his business to Corpus Christi, and after premiering on Good

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Morning America, the venture is turning heads! Two weeks later, we’ve gotten thousands of new customers from the GMA segment. Here’s the premise: Sign up, send them your bills (internet, cable, electric, cell phone, etc.) and their team negotiates discounts with your providers!

They’ll analyze your bills to make sure you are on the best plan possible, and they do the work by keeping track of service provider promotions and discounts so you know you’re always paying the best rates. Then, as simple as that, your savings appear on your regular bill. Disclaimer Alert!!

They don’t make money unless they’re saving YOU money.

Savings are split 50/50, so clients can rest assured BillCutterz is working their hardest to save you every last cent.

Camille’s

Your one stop shop for gifts, sweets and eats.

Original Jewelery Designs www.CamillesOriginal.com

The Harvest is in at Camille’s & Habeeb’s.

Come see what’s new.

Habeeb’s Jewelers 5017 Saratoga Suite #105 www.HabeebsJewelers.com

Corpus Christi, TX 78413 6345-A S. Padre Island Drive (361) 993-3323 Habeebs Square www.SouthernCharmCC.com 361.991.0831

361-853-7303 3801 S. Staples at Weber www.hamlinpharmacy.com

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Q&A with

CHARLIE BOECKMAN Local Jazz Legend and Published Author How long have you been a musician, and how did you get started?

for young people. I took a copy with me to performances of these musicians I met and asked them to autograph my book, and they graciously did.

I grew up in a musical family.

As a child of the Great Depression I had no money in my family for music lessons.

My mother gave piano lessons to others and showed me a few things about playing the piano, but I wanted to play saxophone and clarinet like my older brother, who played in dance bands. Circumstances finally allowed me to get a used saxophone and, with a few tips from my brother, I took off and taught myself to play it. I played in the high school band and in the local college band in Seguin, my home town. I later also taught myself to play the clarinet.

My stint as a side man on the Frank Strub Dance Orchestra gave me the experience to form my own band by the 1970s.

How has being a musician influenced your writing?

Often, I use authentic musical backgrounds in my writing, whether it is short stories or novels. For example, my novel, THE LAST JAZZ BAND, part fiction and part true life, was about a group of zany musicians.

Award-winning novelist Bill Pronzini endorsed the book with this inscription, “I love this book.

It’s a great story, and it throbs with the music itself. I could almost hear it being played as I read.”

When were you awarded the star on The South Texas Music Walk of Fame?

How did you get involved in the Texas Jazz Festival?

I was known around town for having a hot swing dance band and for playing Dixieland jazz at a club downtown that was filled to capacity every time we played. We even regularly marched down the Starr Street sidewalk to the tune, “When the Saints Go Marching In,” with the entire audience following along. I also played for private parties, dance clubs, nursing homes, pleasure boat trips, local recreation centers, and in church. My band was hired for the opening of a local movie theater, car wash, and other one-time events. In addition, we traveled to various cities

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in the Valley. We were all over the place. So we had a varied audience along with our regulars who showed up when we played for the general public. With that kind of reputation, I got an invitation long ago to participate in the Jazz Festival and have played every year since.

What is the best part about playing jazz?

Improvising. Instead of playing the tune exactly as written,

jazz is all about playing variations of the basic melody, making it up as you play.

The on-the-spot creativity is exciting and lends a sense of oneness with the entire band.

Which famous jazz musicians have you met?

Louie Armstrong, Marty Napolean, Pete Fountain, Al Hirt, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Stan Kenton. I wrote a book, COOL, HOT AND BLUE, a history of jazz

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I received it in 2009. The letter informing me of my award stated that I deserved the star due to my 70 years of playing music in South Texas, having written two books on music, COOL, HOT AND BLUE and THE BEAT GOES ON, and having received over 300 nominations, more than any other artist.

What is the best part about being a published author?

Not having to work a nine to five job all my life. I wanted my freedom to do what I wanted, when I wanted. I learned early on, after winning a quarter in an essay contest in elementary school, that I could get paid to write. So I studied, read a lot, and taught myself to write both fiction and nonfiction. That and my music have given me the kind of life I dreamed of as a child.

FREE Bundtlet when you present this coupon

Moore Plaza 5425 S. Padre Island Dr, Suite 167 • (361) 980-1000 Expires 10/31/15. Limit one coupon per guest. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Redeemable only at the bakery listed. Must be claimed in-bakery during normal business hours. No cash value.

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SOCIAL HOUR

1.

DOC MCGREGOR GALA BENEFITTING CORPUS CHRISTI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY Photos by: Rachel Durrent

2.

1. Mara Schechter Butler, Carla & John Swallow 2. Jenny Lohan, Leslie Green 3. Rene & Danice Obreg贸n, Cary & Aidan Perales

3.

4. Evette Garza, Violet Momcivais & Erica Urrea 5. Jillian & Travis Becquet 6. Leslie & Rod Holcomb

4.

6.

5.

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Shannon’s

Distinctive Fashion

JADE

361-993-6608

6646 S. Staples St. 126 Corpus Christi, 78413

Follow us on Facebook

Fun | Funky | Fabulous Here you will be swept up in the elegance of fine home furnishings, enamored with the whimsy of dĂŠcor, and thrilled with all of our new coastal apparel and accessories.

Sip and shop. Sample our delicious coffee while you stroll through this beautifully renovated, historic building at Old Town Six Points.

1710 S. Alameda St. Corpus Christi, TX 78404 | (361) 881-1091 | www.bleufrog.com |

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Like us on Facebook: Bleu Frog Mercantile

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SOCIAL HOUR

2.

1.

3.

1.

NEW NEIGHBORS LEAGUE LUNCHEON Photos by: Rachel Durrent

1. Carole Jenness, Nicole Carroll & Charlotte McElroy 2. Pat McAnear, Denise Parker, Glenda Zelnik, Cynthia Huddleston & Jeannie Echart 3. Laura Drury, Carol Hicks, Jo Ann Nerren & Marilyn Troth 4. Connie Weiss, Diane Pruett, Ava Obermuetter & Vicki Bronaugh 5. Judy Crawford, Pam Legvold, Glenda Zelnik, Lynn Mehal, Gloria Waller & Nancy Gray

4.

5.

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4.

3820 S. Alameda | Corpus Christi | 361.334.4086

3818 S. Alameda St. 36 路 Corpus Christi, TX Lamar Park Shopping Center

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Southern Charm

Clothing & Accessories from Babies to Ladies

5017 Saratoga Suite #105 Corpus Christi. TX 78413 (361)993-3323 www.SouthernCharmCC.com 26 the bend magazine

4234 S. Alameda St. | Town & Country Shopping Center 361.992.9690 | facebook.com/KishMishBoutique

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October is the best time to redecorate before the Holidays. Take a look at these stunningly simple local finds at Buddy Walker Home Furnishings.

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Bernhardt Round Nesting Tables $1659 Sale $1079

Howard Miller Floor Clock

$2850 Sale $1859

Howard Miller Ceramic Vase $130

Uttermost Table Lamp $395

Bernhardt Buffet $3580 Sale $2329

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Fitzgerald Swivel Chair $1258

Nail Floor Lamp $999

Parker Southern Side Chair

Reirson Glass Vase $169.95

$3089 Sale $1999

Imax Shell Spheres $99

Bernhardt Resting Tables $1389 Sale $899

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DENTAL SERVICES: • PREVENTIVE • RESTORATIVE • COSMETIC • TMJ PAIN • ENTERAL SEDATION

COMPASSIONATE MODERN DENTISTRY

for the entire family

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT CORPUS CHRISTI SYMPHONY PRESENTS ANDRÉ WATTS

A GRAND FINALE CORPUS CHRISTI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA WELCOMES CLASSICAL PIANO LEGEND ANDRÉ WATTS TO KICK OFF ITS MAESTRO’S FINAL SEASON. WORDS: Madeline Schmidt PHOTOS: CCSO

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the President of the United States to individuals deserving of special recognition for their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support, and availability of the arts in our nation.

The CCSO features musicians from all over the state.

Leading up to each concert, the performers rehearse separately and only have one day to play together before taking the stage.

T

he Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra’s (CCSO) mission is to inspire, engage, and educate diverse audiences through live, high-quality musical performances. And they have been doing just that for the past 70 years. This year’s season marks not only the 70th anniversary of the CCSO but also Maestro John Giordano’s retirement and final season with the organization. The world-renowned and well-connected Maestro used his clout to bring some of the world’s top and most respected guest performers to Corpus Christi fo a season full of work by some of classical music’s greatest artists. The season kicks off with An Evening with André Watts on October 10th at the CCSO’s home at Texas A&M University Performing Arts Center.

André Watts is classical piano! He burst onto the music world at the age of 16 when Leonard Bernstein chose him to make his debut with the New York Philharmonic in their Young People’s Concerts. Watts’ first album, “The Exciting Debut of André Watts,” under Columbia Records in 1963, went on to win a Grammy Award for ‘most promising new classical music artist’. More than 50 years later, André Watts remains one of today’s most celebrated and beloved pianists.

A much-honored artist, Watts has played before royalty in Europe and heads of government in nations all over the world. In 2011, Watts was awarded the National Medal of Arts, given by

A veteran performer, Watts continues to entertain audiences around the world. He was one of the first classical performers to achieve stardom through television and has appeared on numerous programs produced by PBS, the BBC, and the Arts and Entertainment Network. Recent and upcoming engagements include appearances with the Philadelphia Orchestra, the New York and Los Angeles Philharmonics, the Minnesota Orchestra, and the St. Louis, Atlanta, Detroit, Cincinnati, Dallas, Houston, Baltimore, Indianapolis, and Seattle National symphonies. However, on October 10th, Watts will be here, in Corpus Christi, for his second concert with the CCSO. His appearance in Maestro Giordano’s final season comes as no surprise, as the Maestro has crafted a well-rounded season featuring other Grammy nominated guest artists and even Broadway performers who will join the CCSO for a night featuring songs from Broadway hits. Maestro Giordano joined the CCSO as Music Director in 2004 and will retire after 12 years with the organization. In his 40-year career, he has appeared as a guest conductor in Europe, Mexico, South America, England, China, Philippines, Taiwan and throughout the United States. He’s even conducted world premieres of works by Gian Carlo Menotti, Benjamin Lees, Samuel Adler, Ezra Laderman, and Joaquin Rodrigo. In 1989, the estate of George Gershwin, one of America’s most prolific and beloved 20th century composers, gave him special authorization to arrange Cuban Overture, Rhapsody in Blue, and sections of Porgy and Bess for chamber orchestra.

Renowned performers are not all the CCSO has planned for its upcoming season. They plan to “jazz up” their events with a jazz band that will play in the lobby prior to each event and a signature cocktail created to delight their patrons’ taste buds while the music captivates their ears. So join the CCSO for their monumental 2015-2016 season!

EVENT DEAILS WHEN: Saturday, October 10, 2015 at 7:30 PM WHERE: Performing Arts Center at TAMUCC, 6300 Ocean Drive HOW TO GET TICKETS: Visit http://ccsymphony.org/

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THE MAN BEHIND THE MUSIC: ANDRÉ WATTS • Only two weeks after his debut at the Philadelphia Orchestra, Bernstein asked him to substitute at the last minute for the ailing Glenn Gould in performances of Liszt’s E-flat Concerto with the New York Philharmonic, thus launching his career.

! g n i l i a s o g Let’s

• In June 2006, he was inducted into the Hollywood Bowl Hall of Fame to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his debut (with the Philadelphia Orchestra).

• At age 26, Mr. Watts was the youngest person ever to receive an Honorary Doctorate from Yale University, and he has since received numerous honors from highly respected schools including the University of Pennsylvania, Brandeis University, The Juilliard School of Music, and his Alma Mater, the Peabody Conservatory of Johns Hopkins University.

• His 1976 New York recital aired on the program Live from Lincoln Center and was the first full-length recital broadcast in the history of television.

• His performance at the 38th Casals Festival in Puerto Rico was nominated for an Emmy Award in the category of Outstanding Individual Achievement in Cultural Programming.

• • • •

BayBay Cruises Cruises - 2 to - 28tohours 8 hours • Sunset Sunset Cruise Cruise • Cruise Cruise & Dinner & Dinner Package Package • Intro Intro to Sailing to Sailing Course Course •

Engagements Engagements Charter Charter to Port to Port Aransas Aransas Family Family Outing Outing Guys Guys / Girls / Girls DayDay OutOut

For Charter Reservations Call 361.881.8503 ext. 2

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BEHIND THE SCENES

Bella Jewel

“Alyssa, I just want to thank you so much for an amazing experience working with you at your gorgeous store, Bella Jewel. It was overwhelmingly positive. From the moment I opened the front door and walked in you helped me get excited about my outfit selection for the most amazing photo shoot that was coming up. I felt very comfortable and was pleasantly surprised that you had taken some time before I arrived to think about what pieces and color pallet would look good on me. I loved walking into the gorgeous dressing rooms you had with great ambiance and enjoyed how you had everything ready for me to try on. It was a such great experience. Thank you!”

– Liza Wisner

Bella Jewel

3636 S Alameda Suite F Corpus Christi, Texas (361) 806-2195

34 the bend magazine

“Alyssa, owner of Bella Jewel is a true “jewel” in our community. Bella Jewel caters to all generations with traditional and modern fashion choices at many price points. Alyssa made my shopping visit so comfortable and fun! Shop local and make time to stop in at Bella Jewel.”

– Merritt Kennedy

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Your table is ready.

The famous Republic of Texas Bar & Grill is one of Corpus Christi’s most revered dining destinations. Located on the 20th floor of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, the multi-level steakhouse offers diners stunning panoramic views of the Corpus Christi Bay. We have all the ingredients for the perfect culinary adventure - a tempting menu featuring prime beef, wild game and seafood and an award-winning wine list.

900 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361-886-3515 • omnihotels.com/corpuschristi

BEHIND THE SCENES

Radiology Associates

“Over the years, I have visited the Radiology Associates a number of times for my annual mammogram or other radiology needs. The staff is always welcoming and professional and I know their doctors are top-notch.”

–Carol Scott

Radiology Associates 5742 Spohn Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 980-5300 1521 S Staples St # 301, Corpus Christi, TX 78404 (361) 887-4571 1776 Billy G Webb Dr, Portland, TX 78374 Phone:(361) 561-3086 3929 River East Drive Corpus Christi, TX 78410 (361) 887-7000 2000 Dr. N.W. Atkinson Blvd Ste. 801 Alice, TX 78332 36 the bend magazine

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BEHIND THE SCENES

Casa de Oro Jewelers

“Casa de Oro is beautiful both on the inside and outside. It is very easy to immediately realize the bright, shiny, unique and gorgeous jewelry. But once I got to know Stefany and Terry, I recognized their inner beauty immediately. They have also been loyal supporters to Cattle Barons Ball and so much in our community. I am so thankful for their sponsorship of The Bend, because I had the chance to get to know the family behind the beautiful jewelry.

Wearing some of their jewels was also a huge treat!!” – Michelle Ezell

Casa de Oro Jewelers

4940 Gollihar Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 991-7054

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BEHIND THE SCENES

TVV Medi Spa

TVV Medispa generously gifted me a truly incredible massage and facial! I want to thank their friendly, knowledgable and professional staff for taking such good care of me. The environment was so relaxing and gave me true peace and tranquility. I can’t wait to make my next spa appointment at their convenient Holly location.

- Merritt Kennedy

TVV MediSpa

5242 Holly Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 994-7500

38 the bend magazine

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Here, the doctor waits on you.

A modern alternative to traditional emergency care.

Our freestanding emergency rooms offer a calm and comfortable environment for state-of-the-art medical services and experienced physicians.

Highest standard of care.

Lowest wait time.

24/7 advanced care for today’s emergencies.

Staples @Saratoga | Staples@Everhart Coming Soon: Portland | SPID @ Ennis Joslin

361.991 .091 1 mdpremier.com

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BEHIND THE SCENES

James Stanley Salon

“Courtney Cotton Pollard with James Stanley Salon is definitely one in a million! She was so professional, she took the time to ask me what I was comfortable with and what kind of look I had in mind. She talked me through the process the entire time and when she was done, made sure I was happy with the end result! I have had my hair and make-up done just a handful of times, and this by far was the best experience! I would recommend her to all my family and friends.”

– Dina Zughni-Esquivel

James Stanley Salon 3829 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 452-1472

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Mary Beecroft (361) 945-5755 Mebeecroft@ gmail.com

Denise Artery (361) 500-9388

Frankie Hicks (361) 549-9901

Denise.Artery@ ColdwellBanker.com

Frankie.Hicks@ ColdwellBanker.com

Roberta “Bo” Granberry (361) 774-7263 Brgdesigns@ gmail.com

We Never Stop Moving.

For buying & selling in the Coastal Bend, contact one of us!

Willma Harvey (361) 290-4501 Willma.Harvey@ ColdwellBanker.com

Faryce “Rycee” Goode Macon (361) 815-4608

CorpusChristiRockportHomes.com

Gwyn Richter (361) 548-7442 Gwrichter1@ gmail.com

Merrily Piepho International President’s Circle

(361) 728-1495

Merrily.Piepho@ ColdwellBanker.com

504234 o magazine l l y R d . | C o r p u s C [the h r lifestyle i s t i , magazine T X 7841 1 | (361) 992-9231 the H bend of the coastal bend}

Camp 72

GLOBAL VOICE PRODUCTIONS

PUTS FACE ON LIBERIAN TRAGEDY

“There have been documentaries about the [Liberian] conflict, but nobody has told the story about the aspect of justice.”

Seema Mathur-Hopkins, founder of Global Voice Productions, is putting Corpus Christi on the map for her moving and eye-opening documentaries. One in particular, Camp 72, is about a quest for healing and justice after war. It tells the story of Gladys, who’s story of keeping faith through unimaginable evils has spanned the globe despite living 5,000 miles away.

WORDS: Fares Sabawi

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“I WANTED TO SHOW THE GOOD AND WHAT UNIFIES US.”

AWARDS CAMP 72 HAS WON:

S

eema Mathur-Hopkins, the director of communications at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, has made this city her home for the past few years. But growing up, she never stayed in the same spot too long.

At an early age, Mathur-Hopkins had already spanned the globe, living in England, Zambia, Australia and Thailand before settling down in the United States. Living in different continents with different cultures played a hand in her decision to be a broadcast journalist.

“It influenced my journalism career,” Mathur-Hopkins said while looking back at her past. “I wanted to show the good and what unifies us.”

Mathur-Hopkins worked across Texas, most notably covering healthcare issues in Austin where she earned a national Edward R. Murrow Award. She would also work for CNN, reporting in Africa on the first anniversary of 9/11. But after more than a decade in the journalism world, Mathur-Hopkins would embark on the biggest journey of her life: starting her own production company.

Global Voice Productions As news resources began to shrink, media companies became less able to invest in longer-form stories, the type of stories Mathur-Hopkins longed to tell. “(Coverage) became about these really fast stories,” she recalled of her last position as a broadcast journalist in Dallas. “I felt like I wasn’t doing what I set out to do. I love to do stories where you can reflect and learn rather than just being in the moment.”

What she had set out to do was to unify people with her story telling, to give a voice to people that needed to be heard. That’s why

44 the bend magazine

Mathur-Hopkins decided to go in her own direction, founding Global Voice Productions in 2009.

“It was definitely a risk to go out on my own, but I was walking the most authentically I ever had,” she said. She found the profound story she was looking for when she met Gladys, a Liberian woman who overcame the darkest period of that nation’s time.

• Best Foreign Film at 2015 San Diego Black Film Festival • Best Documentary at Victoria’s 2015 Indie Film Fest • Best Documentary at 2015 Pan African International Film Festival Cannes

Camp 72 Liberia was a nation struggling with corruption and poverty, leading to a rebellion uprising in 1989 led by Charles Taylor. The rebels did not stay united for long, and the group split into several factions, complicating the conflict and further intensifying the civil war.

Gladys, who lived on 72nd Boulevard, watched as her neighborhood was overrun by ruthless rebels. The rebels kidnapped Gladys, only 12 years old at the time, and murdered her mother in front of her. The warlord who kidnapped her kept her captive and raped her repeatedly, a story that tragically was not uncommon for women during the conflict.

Even when Gladys escaped the rebel base four years later, her freedom was short-lived, she was captured and taken as a prisoner by another group.

Gladys survived with the strength of her faith, and eventually would live to see the end of the war in 2003.

SEE CAMP 72 FOR YOURSELF: Where: Art Museum of South Texas, 1902

“I thought I wanted to do a documentary on rape in conflict,” she said. “I felt it would be a good opportunity to reflect and get some insight.”

When: October 8 at 7 p.m.

During her visits, a phrase kept coming up from the locals, leading her to believe the topic went even deeper.

For more information, call 361-825-2427

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N. Shoreline Blvd.

Cost: Free

The Perfect Pair!

PACESETTER STEEL REALTORS®

Unresolved Justice “It changed the focus,” she said.

“There have been documentaries about the conflict, but nobody has told the story about the aspect of justice.” In the aftermath of the conflict, the Liberian government created the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) in an attempt to bring justice to the people. Gladys was one of more than 20,000 people who testified to the commission in hopes of it leading to some form of justice, but so far it hasn’t. The TRC released their report in 2009, suggesting Liberia has to prosecute warlords and ban them from running for office.

“There hasn’t been any prosecution yet. Zero. None,” Mathur-Hopkins said.

What Mathur-Hopkins found most remarkable, though, was that some people were not interested in prosecution. Some just wanted to move on.

“For some people, it doesn’t make sense to them (to seek justice) when you don’t know where you’re having your next meal. People preferred a really traditional form of justice with a sincere apology instead,” she said.

Regardless of what justice comes to these warlords, there are parallels to be drawn to other conflicts still going on today.

“The issues that happened in that war are similar to what’s happening in Syria,” Mathur-Hopkins said. “We can look back at the same type of atrocity that happened to help us understand what’s happening now and how we can stop it.”

However, making the documentary was not without its challenges.

The costs began adding up. “There was a point in time that I was going to stop it completely,” she said.

“It was so financially challenging to do.”

Janet Allen 361.877.3511

But throughout filming the documentary, Mathur-Hopkins was still able to freelance for the TV networks she worked for in the United States, giving her an opportunity to keep working more on Camp 72.

Ann Engel 361.779.4616 jal@corpuschristi-homes.com

“Things just kept calling me back,” she recalled. Mathur-Hopkins was able to visit Liberia three times throughout several years, giving the documentary a more thorough outlook.

Camp 72 will be screened at TAMUCC on October 8th at 7 pm at the Art Museum of South Texas, with special guest Jerome Verdier, the commissioner of the TRC. The screening will be free and open to the public.

“I hope people can get more insight into the impact of war,” Mathur-Hopkins said. But more importantly, she hopes that Gladys’ message of hope through trauma resonates with people.

Through donations, Global Voice Productions has put Gladys and another woman, Grace, through school.

And while Mathur-Hopkins will still look to help the victims of the Liberian civil war through Global Voice Productions, she said she’s looking forward to her new mission of telling the stories of the students and faculty at TAMUCC.

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Bullwinkle jacket on the way to the Gulf of Mexico. Built

by Gulf Marine Fabricators in 1985-1988.

Jazz players, Dick Otis Group. Corpus Christi, TX 1985 Photo Credit: John French

WORDS: Jeff King Eric Meinger, Early 80s, Fred Dotts in Gorilla Suit, TV Commercial for Oldsmobile & Honda Car Dealership on Everhart

N. Chaparral Street in 1977 Jay Phagan

Spring Break 1985

46 the bend magazine

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Flight arrival at Corpus Christi International Airport before security tightened, 1982. Photo Credit: Robert Parks

Nearly 30 years ago, viewers watched Marty McFly test his balance on a hover board after time traveling to October 21st, 2015. As you take a look around on the 30th anniversary of Marty’s time travel in Back to the Future II, flying cars are not commonplace, and hover boards are not yet floating past you on sidewalks. In honor of the anniversary date of Marty’s famed time-travel, we invite you to enjoy a nostalgic glance back from the future to life in the mid1980’s around the Coastal Bend—an era when iconic Water Street Market opened its doors, Motley Crew packed out the Memorial Colosseum, and roller skates dominated the sidewalks up and down the Bayfront.

Working out Downtown, 1985, Photography: Bob Montry

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Local Fashion Shoot in Corpus Christi Monthly, 1986, Photographer: Barry Fantich

Art Museum 1984 Jay Phagan

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Pirate Queens Prepare the Flag 1981 Jay Phagan

Buc Days Parade - circa 1980’s Jay Phagan

Scene from The Legend of Billie Jean, filmed at Sunrise Mall.

The movie premiered in 1985

The skate/dance floor on Peoples Street T-Head, 1985. Photo Credit: Robert Parks

Bird’s Eye View Mesquite and Schatzell St in 1979 Jay Phagan

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AGAI

THE

ODD Obstacles are a part of life.

Some are big, some are small, and some are simply so inspiring, they’re worth sharing!

50 the bend magazine

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INST

E

INSPIRATIONAL STORIES OF HOPE AND HEALING

DS

Meet 5 of the Coastal Bend’s strongest individuals who have overcome major obstacles of the mind, body and soul. Their stories teach valuable lessons on strength, perseverance, and the power of believing.

WORDS: Whitney Noble PHOTOS: Dustin Ashcraft

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One of a Kind!

Location - Location 15374 Mutiny Ct. $699,000

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Move - in - Ready!

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13958 Man O War Ct. $324,500

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Visit us on line! w ww.Coa stline-Properties.com FOR ALL OF YOUR MOST IMPORTANT REAL ESTATE DECISIONS... SEE US!

“Come Coast Awhile...”

Our Performance will move you BUYING | SELLING | LEASING | INVESTING

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REAL ESTATE TEAM

361-949-0101

2008

Born October 15 at 2:32 pm with Hetorotaxy Unbalanced Avtrioventricular Canal Heart Defect with Polysplenia

her 1st Open Heart 10.18.08 Underwent Surgery, Pulmonary Artery Banding

APRIL

2009

MAY2009 2011

Underwent her 2nd Open Heart Surgery, Kawishima/ Glenn procedure

Rushed to the hospital and was HALO Flighted due to lung collapse

Began seeing an eye doctor, as her eye started turning inward

3rd Open Heart AUG Underwent Surgery, Valve Repair

2012

06.04.15 Make-A-Wish Foundation sent Lulu to Disney World

06.30.15

Underwent 4th Open Heart Surgery, Valve Repair Fontan procedure

AUGUST Started 1st grade, with

2015 no future surgeries!

Azyluh “Lulu” Ramirez “Never give up!

Never, ever give up!

Never be afraid to ask for help or advice because it’s out there, you just need to seek and you will find!”

Lulu has a BIG heart, and an even bigger battle with it.

Before Lulu was born, a genetics doctor had diagnosed her (while in utero) with having only half a heart.

The doctors offered Lulu’s parents money to abort the pregnancy and have the fetus sent off for medical studies as her heart condition is rare – roughly 2 of every 10,000 births. Giving that offer not even a moment’s thought, they refused. They wanted to give their precious baby girl a chance for life even though they were aware of the fight, the battle, the literal heartache. The diagnosis, Unbalanced Avtrioventricular Canal Heart Defect, is a congenital heart defect that involves several abnormalities of structures inside the heart. But the condition comes with a few other problems, namely Polysplenia (her spleen is in pieces) and Heterotaxy (a low immune system).

This heart defect has affected Lulu’s life in ways that limit her physical activities, as any bacteria or germ she encounters causes her to become ill quickly. When playing outside, she becomes tired very easily, may start coughing and choking because her body can’t gather the oxygen she needs. Now in the first grade, recess is something she watches from the windows. But her teachers sure appreciate the company!

During winter or flu season, Lulu curbs some of these adverse reactions by getting up to 3 different vaccinations to help prevent her from becoming ill with the Flu or any illness. Any little cough from another child that she encounters can make her become sick with pnuemonia, heart issues, respiratory infections, and several

other illnesses. At times, she can become hospitalized for several days to weeks.

The struggle for Lulu will be lifelong. This, physically, will never be something that Lulu can overcome. But mentally and in Lulu’s soul, she’s a happy and vivacious 6-year-old girl who lives life to the fullest, never letting her obstacles stop her from hanging out with her family and friends, eating her favorite foods, and playing her favorite games. Although this fight is ongoing, she has overcome the hardest part: A total of 4 open-heart surgeries to help correct her heart.

“During Lulu’s transformation, our family and the community have all helped to make it easier. They have all been there to support Lulu and help bring her spirits up.

During her hospital stays, she would receive many gifts, greeting cards, and visitors. We had no idea who they were but followed her on her Facebook page and were touched by her and her story,” Jason Ramirez, Lulu’s dad, shares.

Facing adversity is hard for anyone, but it can sometimes be most inspiring coming from a sweet young girl. “We hope Lulu’s story can give others a glimpse of hope, a bit of inspiration. Lulu has been through so much in her short life that we, as adults, have never even had to go through,” Ramirez says. So many times, doctors told them that Lulu would not make it through. Lulu is sure out to prove them wrong! This loving, caring, ambitious little girl is changing others and changing the world.

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Tim Tate “Believe that anything is possible. Just because our finite minds can’t comprehend how things could possibly get better (in dire situations) doesn’t stop amazing out-of-the-blue from happening that we never saw coming and actually resulting in something better than we had hoped for.”

Depression can be widely misunderstood. Seasonal depression, manic depression, and circumstantial depression to name a few, result from a chemical imbalance in the brain that leads to a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. An estimated 19 million American adults live with depression, and Tim Tate was one of them. He suffered through three major depression episodes within a 10-year span. “During this time, not only did I have to work full-time, but I went back to school and received a Bachelors and Graduate degree,” says Tate.

But despite those successes, Tate fought depression that affected his thoughts and actions. Tate recalls that his “Thoughts were cloudy and negative. It was hard to remember words. Life seemed hopeless. Energy is depleted, so everyday tasks become difficult.”

Moreover, it turned physical, where his muscles became sore and joints became stiff. “It feels as if you are walking in wet cement and it hurts to get up and walk across the room,” explains Tate.

The feeling is of complete and total despair. Tate likens himself to the TV show characters in “The Walking Dead” (before it was a show, of course!).

You’re going through the motions, but that’s about it.

Once the disease started to become physical, Tate decided it was time to see a doctor. “I was prescribed medicine that made me feel worse. I remembered that running made me feel good and I slowly began to run again and exercise became my anti-depressant. I also met a couple counselors along the way.

One was my first yoga teacher and the other became my employer. They helped me to change my way of thinking, which resulted in changing my way of feeling,” says Tate.

He owes much of his transformation to God, his parents, nephew, friends, enemies, and himself! He has also devised a “formula” to stay on the straight and narrow. It’s a cognitive triangle where Mind, Spirit/ Energy, and Body all integrate together to affect your thoughts, feelings and actions. All must be in a positive, symbiotic motion, and given equal attention to, to make a strong and happy YOU. Tate wants anyone suffering with depression to understand one thing: “There are things you can do to feel better. It is never too late to become the person you are meant to be. Second chances and new beginnings happen every day. And you get to decide what those are.”

2013

Started LPC private practice

2010

1996 Became a hairstylist

3rd major depression episode, lasted over a year

2009

Became a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).

2001

1st major depression episode, lasted 8 months, age 33, went back to college

2003

Received AA in Social Work

2007

2nd major depression episode, lasted 10 months, received MS in Counseling Education.

2005

Received BA in Sociology 54 the bend magazine

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2010

2011

June, Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia Diagnosis

After speaking with local oncologist, referred to world renowned MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX.

June

2011

November 2013, several oral chemotherapies were tried to bring CML to remission.

oral chemotherapies failed to Nov Several provide remission, MD’s recommend

2013 JAN 2014

Stem Cell Transplant

Prepared for Leave of Absence for Stem Cell Transplant

Begins 02.19.14 Chemotherapy Pre-Transplant 02.25.14 Stem Cell Transplant

March

Released from MD Anderson Inpatient Hospital

in Houston due to March Lived daily outpatient appoint-

toMay

May

ments at MD Anderson.

Cancer Free!

November February 2015

Returned to Work Part-Time 1 year Post Transplant

June 27 Wedding Day!

Sara Carrion Perrone “I hope sharing my story can inspire others to always trust in the Lord.”

In June, 2010, Sara Carrion Perrone’s life changed. Not just hers, but her entire family’s. Parrone was diagnosed with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia. “At that time I had a very stressful job, and meeting the work load was a struggle and almost impossible to keep up with while I adjusted to a new normal,” remembers Perrone. This “new normal” involved a daily oral chemotherapy regimen, known as Gleevec, which made Perrone sick to her stomach almost every day, paired with a battle of moderate-high fatigue levels. Most days, by three o’clock, Perrone was exhausted, often falling asleep in the early evenings and waking up to catch up on work late at night.

But, Perrone felt the need for a second opinion about a year after diagnosis. Something deep in her gut told her she needed to speak to another specialist. So she scheduled an appointment at MD Anderson where she was placed on a number of other oral chemotherapy drugs, Tasigna, and eventually Sprycel. “My family, friends and I prayed one of the medications would be the answer to all our prayers,” says Perrone.

Perrone can attest to the old adage “it gets worse before it

gets better,” as right before the Holiday season in 2014, her doctors informed her that her body wasn’t reacting to the drugs as they’d hoped. It was time for a stem-cell transplant they simply couldn’t wait any longer.

For about four years, Perrone protected her daughter, Isabella, from her diagnosis. She did not want the fear and the unknown to disrupt her daughter’s life. Many “work trips” brought her to Houston over the years, and it wasn’t until the stem cell transplant was necessary that it was critical to have the long anticipated conversation with Isabella, her one and only true donor match. Perrone notes that the biggest step in her transformation process was sharing her diagnosis with Isabella. She was only 8-years old when Perrone was diagnosed, and now, at 12, she was her mom’s only shot at life.

Perrone’s family and friends were instrumental in helping her in the fight against cancer. Her mom and dad helped make ends meet, and David, then long-time love and now husband, took care of Isabella. “There were many times when I simply didn’t have the strength to fight. But my faith in God always helped me when I was weak or afraid,” says Perrone.

And He came through.

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2015

Feeling wonderful! Have not had symptoms of Lupus in almost 6 months. Even one of the last blood tests come out negative for Lupus.

2013

2012

2007 Started having symptoms such as

fatigue and joint pain that morphed into overall pain

2008

Continued workout and eating routine, and slowly lost the pounds

Became food conscious, purchased a Vitamix and began drinking smoothies that help reduce inflammation and became aware of foods that cause inflammation.

Decided to start a regular workout routine.

2009

Primary Care Physician did an antinuclear antibody (ANA) test that revealed ANA levels very high indicative of Lupus. Referred to the rheumatologist.

2011

Started seeing a local doctor who began alternative medicine to treat the diagnosis. In late 2011 joined the Wellness program at the university and workout an average of 4 times a week.

Rachel Botello-Cox “I guess the main reason I needed to do something was because I knew it was possible to make it better. I didn’t know what that looked like or what I needed to do, but I wanted to do everything I could to find out.”

DEC 2009

It all started with pain in the wrist. Just a sprain, perhaps? However, Rachel A. Botello-Cox started to think that maybe it was something more, as soon the pain began to migrate to different joints all over her body. “I experienced severe pain, low energy and extreme fatigue. Not knowing what was going on took a toll on my body emotionally, spiritually and physically. I would barely make it through my workday,” Botello-Cox recalls. Severe exhaustion, weight gain, and an unusual rash on her lower back symptomized what was soon to be diagnosed as Lupus.

“After the [Lupus] diagnosis, I was referred to a rheumatologist. I was immediately placed on Plaquenil. I asked the doctor for information on natural treatments and if she knew of anyone she could refer me to for alternative medicine. I was basically ignored,” says Botello-Cox. Upon pushing for additional information on the disease, the nurse practitioner advised her not to search the internet as, “it will scare the hell out of you.”

It definitely has been an evolutionary process. “I started visiting a local alternative medicine doctor. Simultaneously, I started exercising and forcing myself to be more active in spite of the pain. It started with a walk-athome video and progressed to run walking, Zumba, circuit training, TRX, ballroom dancing and yoga.” says Botello-Cox. Diet also has played a huge role. She learned what type of foods caused inflammation, began making green smoothies and taking natural supplements that aid in reducing inflammation. Meditation has also been a key.

56 the bend magazine

Diagnosed with Lupus and prescribed Plaquenil. Continued to broaden workouts.

The power of thought, optimism, and a grateful heart became Botello-Cox’s mantra. “I once heard someone describe emotions as energy in motion. If my emotions are negative and I don’t process them in a constructive manner they will manifest themselves somewhere in my body as disease. I’m also very conscious of the language I use. I don’t say I have lupus, I say I have been diagnosed with it,” says Botello-Cox. Staying positive keeps her symptoms at bay, as does her support system, which consists of her husband, daughter, family members and friends. She is also a member of a group that calls themselves the Inquiring Minds Dinner Discussion (IMDD) group. They have created a place to explore, challenge and question each other’s beliefs and ideas, and most importantly, feel safe doing so.

“I would like for others to know that their own source of power comes from within. It starts with changing the way we think about ourselves. I hope to inspire people to stand in their light and follow their hearts to a more spiritual, healthy and happy life.”

Botella-Cox acknowledges that struggles are a part of life, but instead of approaching them kicking and screaming, she’s chosen to handle them with grace. “I wish for anyone reading this article to find what works for you and to not die with your music still in you. Be in charge of your recovery. Be proactive, ask questions, remember you have choices and know you can make a difference in your healing. Your spirit is never sick, so tap into that energy and use it to lead you back to physical wellness. Dance like nobody is watching and enjoy every minute of your precious life,” reminds Bottelo-Cox.

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Virginia Metz “I suppose I’m sort of the Cinderella story.

[My husband] John could see beyond the exterior, he loved my soul.”

By kindergarten, Virginia Metz was 90 pounds. Her smile, her positivity, her charisma, and her bubbly personality always made her well liked, but she knew she wasn’t built like many of her classmates. “Nothing was politically correct back in the day,” Metz explains. “All kids had to participate in the Presidential Fitness test. This required amazing physical feats for a chunky kid. I was the last one to come in on the 600-yard dash and was so embarrassed.

The flex arm hang was pretty embarrassing, too, as I could not hold myself for one second.” Then there was prom.

Metz’ winning personality scored her a date. However, the only dress that would fit her 200 lb frame was a, “Little Bo Peep rendition of a prom gown...Oh the terror!” Metz recalls. Growing up, there was no Lane Bryant or plus sized clothing, so Metz had to shop the “women’s” clothing area and cut the bottom of the pants off to not trip!

At age 25, Metz married her husband, John. After 20 years together and 7 children (6 biological, 1 adopted), Metz recalls that “I suppose I’m sort of the Cinderella story. John could see beyond the exterior, he loved my soul.”

Her weight loss journey began just 5 years ago, when Metz was 40-years old, and tipping the scale at 265 pounds. She discovered her passion for healthy living after a lifetime of obesity, low self esteem and summers involving swim parties, go carting and other things heavy people do not enjoy. Metz made an agreement with herself – to fight to get fit, and to keep it that way!

“It is not advisable to look for short cuts or quick fixes.

There will be frustration as your body is a beautiful machine that records everything you do and adjusts accordingly. It takes time to see lasting change in your body and everyone’s ‘skinny’ or ‘fit’ is different according to your personal best,” Metz says.

2014

Strong First Gyra (Kettlebell) Certified (SFGI)

2012

Hardstyle KBJJ has become Metz’s home away from home. Zumba began Metz’s transformation along with almost every other group fitness class available. But it wasn’t until a Boot Camp class that she experienced a different level of fitness! Soon after Boot Camp, the instructor brought Kettlebell lifting to Corpus Christi. He invited Metz to try this particular style of lifting and she fell in love with how efficient it was, it’s sculpting effects, and overall weight loss results.

One of Metz’s daughters painted on a solid black kettlebell, “You is kind, you is smart, you is important.”

This quote, from Kathryn Stockett, The Help, urges and inspires Metz every day. Kettlebells have completely overhauled her body. Finally, in her mid-40s, Metz has more energy, spunk, and zest for life than ever before.

At the beginning of 2014, Metz dedicated herself to obtaining her SFG I certification. This was her “I made it” moment, and proof of her dedication, desire to help others, and evidence of her changed life. She became an assistant instructor at Hardstyle KBJJ in September 2014, training others in advancing a healthy living lifestyle.

She stands tall, with her head high, shoulders back, grin wide, at more than 100 pounds lighter, stronger, happier, healthier, inspired and inspirING. “I never thought I could get in shape and feel great. I am proud to say I did not try short cuts to my weight loss. I did not take one pill, shake, surgery or magic anything to arrive at the body I have today. To lose 100 lifetime burdening pounds, I had to fight every day by making exercise and nutrition a priority. Metz’ best advise it to make peace with your journey, move what you can when you can. Eat to live. Don’t live to eat. Breathe, Love, Dance, Swing!

1975

Kindergarten 90 lbs

1981 Junior High 180 lbs

Zumba Instructor Certified

1984

High School 200+ lbs

20102012

1988-2010

Lost 100 pounds with no pills, surgeries or shakes

Adult over 250 lbs

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How to Bend in the Coastal Bend Yoga has been around for thousands of years, but has only recently gained popularity in the United States. Not only is it great for both mind and body, it can be a lot of fun! We bring you plenty of tips, gear and advice from three yoga instructors around the Coastal Bend.

Words: Whitney Noble & Sharla Wilkins Photos: Rachel Durrent

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“Padmasana - Lotus”

panegaukatghee!

S L

Padma means “lotus” and asana means “pose” This posture is used for the practice of Pranayama (breathing excersise) and meditation.

For many people, this posture is one of the most difficult to master, however, once mastered, Padmasana is one of the most relaxing postures.

asanas = Poses pranayama = Science of breathing

Difficulty:

driste = Gazing point for each pose

Intermediate/advance

Caution:

honuman = Monkey god, symbolic of your mind that is all over the place

Never force the feet into this posture

Benefits: Increases pelvis mobility, massages the abdominal organs, increases circulation in the lumbar region and strengthens ankle, knees, hips and joints.

savasana = Final relaxation pose to still the mind and body at the end of yoga practice namaste = A gesture expressing the belief that there is a Divine spark within each of us that is located in the heart chakra chakra = An energy point in the subtle (non-physical) body, not the physical body, and as such are the meeting points of the subtle energy channels

Maria Teresa Dominguez Kids Get Fit Program through V-Fit Studios, Yoga Studio of CC

“Urdhva Mukha savannas - Upward facing dog” Urdhva means “upward, Mukha means “face” and svana means “dog.” This posture gives a vigorous upward stretch to the spine.

Level: Beginner/intermediate

Caution: This posture is not recommended if you have a weak back or wrists, or neck stiffness.

Benefits: Strengthens the arms, legs, shoulders and back. Improves the circulation and invigorates the body.

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How to choose the right studio for your needs

“PVrksasana Tree” Vrksa means tree, and is a graceful balance pose. The foot pressing into the ground is like the root of the tree and the arms stretch up like the branches of the tree.

Start with a beginner’s class; some classes are donation based or you can do a private class at first so there’s no intimidation. Most importantly, shop around for your instructor. If you do not feel comfortable in that class, try a different one! Everyone has a different style and you’ll get the best benefits when you have a connection with your instructor.

Level: Beginner

Practice: If balancing is difficult, stand against a wall to avoid falling.

Benefits: Develops memory and concentration, improves poise and posture, firms and tones the muscles of the legs, back and chest.

ttirpiscaknds Advice for Beginners

• Keep your practice symmetrical; always do the same pose on both sides • Breathing is the most important aspect – focus on your breathing and stay connected with your breath with regular inhales and exhales

No special footwear is required; yoga is practiced barefoot

• Don’t use a mirror, look inside of yourself instead

You don’t need to bring a yoga mat

• Use your driste, the gazing point for each pose, ie: look at your hand if it’s up in the air, or your fingertips if they’re in front of you

Come with an open mind Just show up There are many different types of yoga. Experiment with instructors of different types to find the one that is right for you.

The Guinness World Records currently lists 85-year-old Bette Calman from Australia as the world’s oldest yoga teacher. However, 90-year-old yoga teacher Gladys Morris from Royton, Oldham, is petitioning the Guinness World Records to be recognized as the oldest.

• Keep your mind clear – classes end with savasana, as relaxation at the end completes the yoga cycle • Don’t eat ahead of time! 2 hour window • You don’t have to be flexible; practicing the poses can help gain flexibility

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“Eka Pada Sirsansana”

“Garbha Pindasana”

= One Foot to Head Posture

= Embryo-in-Womb Posture

Eka = One

Pinda = Embryo

Pada = Foot or leg

Level: Advanced

Garbha = Womb

Sirsa = Head

Benefits: Relaxes the

Asana = Posture

whole spine, especially the muscles of the lumbar spine, and strengthens the abdomen.

Traditionally it is taught that the pressure of the heels on the abdomen cleanses the liver and the spleen, and the points of contact on the arms and legs stimulate the corresponding lymphatic tissue.

Level: Advanced

Benefits: This asana is one of the greatest challenges and comes with an increase in the flexibility in the hips and hamstrings. Traditionally this posture is said to enrich our hemoglobin, thereby affecting our metabolism in a positive way, and decrease nervous trembling.

Quick

Fact

Most scholars agree that even though yoga and Hinduism are closely related, and that yoga is within religion, it is not itself a religion.

Yoga is more often considered a type of spirituality.

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“Sirsasana” Sirsa = head

“Bakasana” or “Kakasana”

Level: Intermediate

= Crow posture

= Head Standing Posture

Benefits: By reversing the blood flow in our body and sending a powerful inflow into our head, it is taught that the brain, sense organs, and memory are nourished and their potential increased.

The benefits of all that we digest, physically and mentally, can head directly toward the crown of our head and assist our intellectual abilities, and eventually our spiritual illumination. Note the scripture “Yama matram vashe nityam” [We can dwell in Sirsasana for three hours]. It’s recommended starting with less!

Baka = crane Kak = crow

Level: Beginner Benefits: The asana strengthens the shoulders, arms, wrists and hands, as well as the core muscles and organs of the abdomen.

Increases focus and the potential for balance.

History of Yoga

David Nuss

Was brought to America in the late 1800s and early 1900s

Teaches at the food bank Practices the oldest form of yoga, which is Ashtanga Yoga (the eight limbs)

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Origins in India

Hatha yoga became popular after it was introduced to Hollywood in 1947

“Viparita Virahbhadrasana” = Reverse Warrior or Sun Warrior

Level: Beginner Benefits: Reverse Warrior Pose is a variation of Warrior II pose with many benefits. Strengthens the quads, arms and neck, stretches the groins, hips and obliques, opens the chest and shoulders, increases self esteem and perseverance.

Contraindications: Recent or chronic injury to the hips, back, or shoulder.

Women:

Tip: Brace your back heel or

Outfits and Gear

the back of your torso against a wall if you feel unsteady in the pose.

Jenni Elzwig Beachfit Trainers

Yoga pants, athletic top

Men:

Athletic shorts or running shorts Anything you feel comfortable moving around in

Yoga Mat

Optional: Block and strap (this makes postures more accessible)

Optional:

Bolster (long circular pillow) is great for restorative yoga

(private residential community classes), Kids Get Fit Program through V-Fit Studios, private classs YogaByJenni

“Eka Pāda Adho Mukha Śvānāsana” = One Legged Downward-Facing Dog

“Parighasana”

= Crossbeam of a Gate Posture

eka = one

Parigha = cross of a gate

pāda = foot or leg

Level: Beginner

adho = downward

Benefits: Stretches the sides of the torso and spine, opens the hamstrings, stimulates abdominal organs and lungs.

mukha = facing śvānaāsana = dog posture

Difficulty: Intermediate

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Benefits: Full-body stretching, strength building, energizing and rejuvenating the nervous system, relief from stress, headaches, fatigue, poor digestion, and back pain. This variation has the added bonus of opening your hips and ribs while improving your body’s overall balance. It will build strength in your upper body, arms, and shoulders in no time. It will also quickly tone your hips, butt, and thighs.

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theres y B b m Nu

“Paripurna Navasana”

A 2008 market study in Yoga Journal reports that some 16 million Americans practice yoga and spend $5.7 billion a year on gear.l

= Full boat pose (variation with partner)

Level: Beginner/Intermediate Benefits: This asana strengthens the abdominal muscles, the legs and the lower back. Paripurna Navasana is said to relieve stress, improve digestion and aid the lower abdominal organs.

FKoirdthse

Yoga is super beneficial for children! It helps them to become more aware of their bodies, increase concentration, control their emotions, all while being physically active.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO INTRODUCE YOUR KIDS TO YOGA: BREATHING: Have them place a stuffed animal on their belly and concentrate on watching the animal rise and fall with their breath. This helps them calm down and link the cadence of their breath with stillness of their thoughts.

POSES: Introduce some animal poses.

Keep it fun and relaxed and have them fall

Contact: Jenni Elzwig 850-228-6823

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into character.

ENCOURAGE SELF: Expression and creativity.

For instance, in downward dog, ask them to bark and wag their tails.

FOCUS: Have them fix their gaze on something interesting while balancing on one foot. Repeat on the second side.

STRUCTURE: Children love repetition and rituals.

They love learning new words (such as “Om” and “Namaste”) and themes. Try reading a colorful story and finding relevant poses to practice.

STILLNESS: Alternate periods of focus and opportunities for silly fun. Try to begin and end with moments of quiet reflection.

Maria Teresa Dominguez 361-290-9396 teredguez@Hotmail.com

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David Nuss 917-355-1868 soundatone@yahoo.com

Reef or Beef?

Have some seasonal soup today!

Beef Stew

NEW! Maine Lobster Chowder

Corpus Christi

1416 Airline / 361-992-4649 5325 Saratoga / 361-980-8300

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And so much more...

Special Promotion “One of the biggest challenges in healthcare is having ready access to a doctor. The need for patient care outstrips the availability of doctors here and across the country. Our model provides emergency care in a nontraditional facility that allows for fast access to a doctor and efficient medical treatment.”

– Dr. Kenyon

Putting ER in Premier The wait is literally over for fast, efficient and quality emergency care in the Coastal Bend thanks to the team of doctors at Physicians Premier ER. Emergencies are nothing new for the team of experienced ER doctors launching a revolutionary emergency care concept. In fact, the doctors handled an initial emergency before opening the doors at their first location, Staples and Saratoga, one year ago. Before the building inspector completed the assessment, they encountered an issue with the backup generator.

It would mean another two to three months before opening the doors. Dr. Schwirtlich, a founding doctor, quickly took matters into his own hands.

Before the inspection was complete, the generator was running and Physicians Premier ER was ready to provide patients with prompt and exceptional emergency care.

Local population growth brings a high demand for medical care across the board. Emergency rooms are constantly full. Some patients have resorted to driving to San Antonio for care because of extremely long ER waits.

“One of the biggest challenges to healthcare is having ready access to a doctor. The need for patient care outstrips the availability of doctors here and across the country. Our model provides emergency care in a nontraditional facility that allows for fast access to a doctor and efficient medical treatment,” says Dr. Kenyon, a founding member of the team. “It’s a cumbersome system, and emergency rooms always seem short

staffed. There are long wait times, long waits to see the doctor, and long waits for diagnostics and test results.”

Physicians Premier ER only staffs doctors who practice emergency medicine, not mid-level practitioners. They not only want to decrease wait times, they want to increase the quality of care patients receive.

Also, every doctor is a partner; they don’t hire outside doctors.

The current group has grown to over 30 doctors, with many still practicing in local emergency rooms.

The doctors do not feel these facilities are in direct competition with traditional hospital emergency rooms; instead, they see their role as augmenting area emergency services. “We can offer fast and efficient care with good customer service all in a nice place and comfortable environment,” says Dr. Kenyon.

Facilities include such amenities as fixed and portable X-rays, a CT Scanner and all standard emergency room equipment with all the vital machines that connect to a generator in case of a natural disaster. Along with being cutting edge, facilities are comfortable. The doctors want all patients to feel at home. There is even a pediatric room complete with Mickey, Minnie and the rest of the Disney crew on the walls.

“We do xray, CT scans, and ultrasound on site and receive reports from a radiologist usually in less than

Common Emergencies Include: • Whiplash • Sprain or strain of the ankle, knee, or shoulder • Cuts or lacerations • Burns • Kidney Stones • Asthma • Dehydration • Chest Pain • Injury from falls • Fractures • Pneumonia • Swollen glands • Rash • Wheezing • Sore throat • Minor abdominal pain • Diarrhea • Urinary tract infections • Mono • Bronchitis • Colds • Flu • Ear Infection • Strep throat *If you think you are having a heart attack or stroke call 911 immediately.

Special Promotion

Meet the Physicians PremiER Team:

Dr. Nicholas McLain:

Dr. Christopher Kwon

Dr. Martin Grieme

Born in Fort Worth, TX, Dr. McLain attended Baylor University for undergraduate studies and attended medical school at Texas Tech Health Sciences Center School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Drexel Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA, earning a specialty in emergency medicine in 2008. He has worked in freestanding emergency centers since 2010 and is currently one of the founders and operators of Physicians Premier in Corpus Christi.

Dr. Kwon grew up in Maryland. He obtained his undergraduate degree from The Johns Hopkins University in biomedical engineering and earned his medical degree from Wake Forest University in North Carolina. He completed his residency training in Emergency Medicine from The Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Dr. Kwon is board certified in Emergency Medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians.”

Born and raised in Springfield, Illinois, Dr. Grieme completed his undergraduate studies at Southern Illinois University. He attended medical school at the University of Illinois/Chicago.

Afterwards, he moved to Corpus Christi to complete his residency training at Memorial Medical Center. Dr. Grieme is Board Certified in Family Practice and Hyperbaric Medicine. He has worked full time in Emergency Medicine since 1992, with the exception of Wound Care/ Hyperbaric Medicine from ’992001. He is married to Yolanda and has four children. He enjoys fly-fishing, hunting, snow boarding and diving.

Dr. David Kenyon:

Dr. Jared Shahan:

Dr. Lonie Schwirtlich:

Born and raised in Amarillo, Texas, Dr. Kenyon attended Texas A & M University in College Station for undergraduate studies along with a year at Hebrew University in Jerusalem. He earned his Medical degree at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston in 1989. His residency was in Corpus Christi at Memorial Medical Center, completed in 1992. He is Board certified in Family Medicine and has practiced emergency medicine exclusively for past 12 years. He is married to Dyana Kenyon. They have four children. Hobbies include hunting, fishing, and gardening. Dr. Kenyon attends Yorktown Baptist Church in Corpus Christi.

Raised in Brackettville, Texas & son of Tully and Darlene Shahan. He completed undergraduate education at Texas A&M University and graduated in 2000. After attending medical school at Texas Tech School of Medicine in Lubbock and El Paso and graduating in 2005, he married Candice Shahan and moved to Washington State for residency in Rural Family Medicine. He graduated from the program in 2008 and committed practice to emergency medicine in the town of Colville, WA. He moved to Kansas in 2011 and practiced at Labette Health in Parsons, KS for 3 years prior to moving to Corpus Christi to be a part of Physicians Premier.

Born and raised in the Anaville area of Corpus Christi, Dr. Lonie Schwirtlich worked multiple jobs, from picking cotton at the family farm to working as a research assistant for a local pediatric cardiologist, before graduating from Del Mar College. He went on to get his BA in Chemistry at the University of Texas in Austin and received his medical degree from Baylor College of Medicine in 1979. Afterwards, he finished a customized ER training program at Baylor college of Medicine, which allowed him to go on to become the first Board Certified Emergency Medicine Physician practicing in a rural setting in Texas in 1987. He has practiced Emergency Medicine since 1980 all over South Texas.

Dr. Schwirtlich is a family man who loves surfing adventures, hunting, fishing, and any kind endurance-sporting event.

30 minutes. Labs are also done on site for immediate results.”

Oftentimes, there is not a bed available at local hospitals to submit a patient for treatment. Physicians Premier ER offers a 23-hour observation. They can keep a patient and stabilize them, and if it looks like they can turn the problem around in a 24-hour period, they can keep them out of the hospital. And we have relationships with area hospitals and hospitalists to directly admit patients to a bed if need be.

The first location, at the corner of Staples and Saratoga, just celebrated its one year anniversary. The second opened on Staples at Everhart earlier this year, and their third location will open in Portland in October 2015.

Two more are in progress; one in Calallen and another along SPID at Ennis Joslin.

Physicians Premier ER is open 24 hours as day; seven days a week, and is close to home. Opposed to the six-hour waits patients are accustomed to, Physicians Premier ER is averaging seven-minute waits before an actual doctor sees each patient.

“For myself and the team of doctors at Physicians Premier, this is our business, so we want to offer patients the best service and care we can,” said Dr. Grieme, another founding doctor. “We are bringing a completely different scenario than any other ER experience. When people come in for the first time, they are amazed.”

For more information call (361) 991-0911 and visit them on the web at mdpremier.com

SOUTH TEXAS BONE & JOINT ASK THE EXPERT

South Texas Bone and Joint is the leading name for orthopaedic excellence in Corpus Christi and the entire Coastal Bend. Practicing orthopaedic care for over 40+ years, the surgeons and entire medical staff provide total musculoskeletal patient-first care, encompassing leading technology and advancements in Sports Medicine, Adult Spinal Surgery, Foot and Ankle Surgery, Surgery of the Hand and Upper Extremity, Joint Replacement, and Advanced Robotics.

Comprised of nine doctors, South Texas Bone and Joint boasts a team with expertise in every orthopaedic sub-specialty. Additionally, the medical staff includes four physician assistants and an orthopaedic nurse practitioner.

They are pleased to further commit to excellence in orthopaedic patient care by offering convenient, same-day MRI imaging through the Corpus Christi MRI Center, in-office digital x-ray, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and custom durable medical equipment. Also a first in the Coastal Bend Area is their Priority Care Center. A ‘clinic within a clinic’ offering walk-in, musculoskeletal specific, no appointment required care designed with a focus on treating acute orthopaedic injuries.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF IT IS MORE THAN JUST AN ANKLE SPRAIN? “The simple answer is, if the X-ray is normal, showing no fracture, and there is discomfort over the ankle ligaments, then it is a sprain. An MRI is the only way to accurately visualize a sprain, but it is an expensive study and not always needed. A sprain is important! Depending on the severity, some sprains (and some fractures) can be walked on. If pain continues more than a few days, evaluation with a medical professional is necessary.” - Dr. Grosser

The practice is additionally expanding their patient services with a progressive Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation team focused on a goal of restoring maximum function and mobility. Anticipated opening is October of this year.

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special promotion

MORE INFO SOUTH TEXAS BONE & JOINT (361) 854 0811 601 TEXAN TRAIL SUITE 300 CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS 78411 SOUTHTEXASBONEANDJOINT.COM

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At participating franchises only. Valid at time of initial estimate. Not valid with any other offers, discounts or coupons. Some restrictions may apply. Ask for details. Offer available for a limited time only.

Wood shutters & custom bedding

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ASK THE EXPERT

HOW IMPORTANT IS EXERCISE FOR OUR LEG-VEIN RELATED PROBLEMS? Modern lifestyles, which are often sedentary, frequently compromise our ability to keep good muscle tone in the lower extremities. We all need regular exercise for maintaining good muscle tone in our legs.

The calf muscle pump utilizes the tone and contraction of the leg muscles to squeeze the veins and, by doing so, moves the blood up through the leg towards the heart. Although the muscles in the feet and thighs are important, research has demonstrated that the calf muscles are responsible for at least 85 percent of the total pumping action.

JAVIER ALONSO MD, PHD Dr. Javier Alonso has treated vein problems for more than 20 years. He completed his board certification in general surgery at the University of Missouri, and his cardiothoracic board certification at the University of California –San Diego. He is certified by the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine and he is also a Registered Phlebology Sonographer.

He has dedicated his life to improving blood flow to arteries and veins throughout the body. As a pioneer in treatment of venous insufficiency, Dr. Alonso uses minimally invasive techniques to treat varicose veins. He is passionate about helping patients feel better and overcome their symptoms. Getting rid of painful and unsightly varicose veins not only helps patients feel better, it ultimately improves their quality of life.

He is the founder of Texas Vein & Vascular and TVV MediSpa. Dr. Alonso and the staff at Texas Vein & Vascular are here to provide expert treatment and care for vein disease at any stage.

If the calf muscles do not pump properly, the blood will tend to accumulate down in the leg under increasing pressure augmenting the chances of developing varicose and spider veins.

What can we do to decrease this risk? We need to perform regular exercise for well-toned muscles, especially in the calves, so we facilitate the flow of blood towards the heart. That’s why it is in our best interest to regularly take walks or any other physical activity. All different kinds of exercise are good to improve our vein health, and walking is definitely one of the best. No matter how busy you are, my recommendation is to make time into your schedule and pump your legs with a good walk!

MORE INFO

TEXAS VEIN & VASCULAR ADDRESS: 5242 HOLLY RD, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78411 PHONE:(361) 991-6611

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ASK THE EXPERT

THIS TRANSITION IN LIFE IS CAUSING STRESS, WHAT SHOULD I DO?

MACY KINZEL, PHD Dr. Kinzel states that emotional health is an important aspect in leading a successful life. Research reveals that happy people are successful.

When people are happy, they are better able to attend to goals with energy and optimism.

Dr. Macy Kinzel was born and raised in California, earning her undergraduate degree at the University of California – Irvine, a masters at Central Michigan University and a Ph.D. from the Fielding Institute in California. She opened her Corpus Christi practice in 1987, where she has practiced psychology for 28 years.

Dr. Macy Kinzel and Associates provide psychological testing and psychological services to adults and children as young as three years old. Available therapeutic services include individual psychotherapy, art therapy, relaxation therapy, hypnosis, and behavioral management.

Each associate has a unique expertise. For decades, the office has had the privilege of serving a variety of clientele from different cultures and backgrounds, including the families of many service men and women who call this region home.

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special promotion

Both men and women often feel anxiety during life’s many transitions. Many things can trigger anxiety. For instance, comparing yourself to other people’s idea of success. They also run late to work, have unwashed dishes and/or have laundry to do. Remember, nobody is perfect and/or completely put together.

MORE INFO

MACY KINZEL & ASSOCIATES CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST 3434 S ALAMEDA ST. CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78411 (361) 855-2710

ASK THE EXPERT

I’VE GOT A FAMILY HISTORY OF HEART DISEASE, HOW DO I KEEP MYSELF FROM GETTING A HEART ATTACK?

SRIKANTH DAMARAJU, MD

Dr. Damaraju attended the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston to complete his residency in Internal Medicine. He was honored as Chief Resident in Internal Medicine in 1995 at Baylor and is Board Certified in Internal Medicine. He was subsequently trained in Cardiology at Texas Heart Institute-St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital in Houston where he also gained the distinction of being the Chief Cardiology Fellow in 1997.

He joined the Coastal Cardiology practice in 1999. He treats patients throughout Corpus Christi, including at CHRISTUS Spohn Hosptial Corpus Christi-Shoreline, in the new, state-ofthe-art Dan A. Hughes Family Surgical Hybrid Suite.

Dr. Damaraju is trained in Interventional Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology, Pacemaker implantation, Echocardiography and Trans-esophageal echocardiography. He is also Board Certified by the American Society of Echocardiography and the Certification Board of Nuclear Cardiology.

“We advise our patients to stay healthful: That means getting to a gym or exercising at least four times week. Watching their caloric intake: Cutting out soft drinks and easy calories like beer and such. Eating a lot more fruits and vegetables, and following up with your primary care physician about your blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol, because that makes the biggest difference. Quitting smoking saves lives, and wearing your seatbelt saves lives. I had someone tell me once that if they exercised every day, ate healthy, wore a seatbelt and didn’t smoke they would live to be 90, and I think that’s pretty true. If you follow these guidelines, you will live a healthy life.”

MORE INFO

CHRISTUS SPOHN HEALTH SYSTEM 1702 SANTA FE, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78404 (361) 881-3000

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CELEBRATION SPONSORED BY:

THE BIG DAY! GENA PLAAG & CODY EVANS JUNE 20TH, 2015

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Q&A

with the

NewBride

What is your and your groom’s story? Cody and I met on Facebook (so embarrassing). I was trying to play it cool and message him acting like he was in one of my classes at SHSU (Sam Houston State University). Apparently, I did something right and he responded. We met up the next day at a local burger place in Huntsville and we were instantly smitten with each other. After a couple of months, Cody was ready to graduate and I was 2 years away from graduating.

The timing at that time wasn’t right, but we still kept in contact. Fast forward 3 years later, and we were both in Houston. Cody was working for a new company and I had just graduated looking for a job in the area. We met up for dinner and it was history ever since.

hoW did he propose? Cody knew the 3 things I wanted in a proposal; Keep it simple, sweet, and special. I came home like any other normal day, I walked through the front door, and our dog came running up to me. I noticed that he had something in his mouth and my first thought was, “Oh no! What have you gotten into?” So I took the object from his mouth and it was a note that said,

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Create a Event!

“Say Yes!” I looked up and Cody was kneeling at the end of the hallway. It was absolutely perfect in every way.

Who or What has been the most helpful and inspiring throughout the Wedding planning process?

First, my mom! I couldn’t have done anything without her help. She was my go-to person for everything. When I gave her an idea that I liked she did everything she could to make it perfect, and then some. I can’t thank her enough for her help. Next, my in-laws. They welcomed me into their family with open arms, and made sure that Cody and I had a perfect day. They worked so hard planning showers, parties, and being there for us in every way possible. And last, Pinterest. Of course! I couldn’t have gotten any ideas without my handy app.

What part of the planning process Was most stressful? Sending out Save

our family and friends, but it gets tiring after a while!

What Was your absolute favorite part of your special day?

Walking down the aisle and seeing Cody’s reaction.

Were there any surprise moments throughout the day? It rained all day! Not a good thing for an outdoor wedding. I had people coming up to me constantly telling me that rain was good luck, but it would pass over before the ceremony. My family and bridal party did such a wonderful job keeping me calm throughout the day. The rain ended up being a blessing at the end. It had cooled off outside and made for a pleasant June evening.

any advice for future brides?

the Dates, invitations, and writing thank-you notes. I loved every minute of stuffing invitations and expressing our love and thanks to

Enjoy every minute of being a bride. Treasure every moment of the planning process and the wedding because it flies by so quickly.

Specializing in Event Rentals: • • • • • • • • • •

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

Rental * Design * Décor For all your life Celebrations!

CEREMONY & RECEPTION The Ranch at San Patricio CATERING Marcos CAKE Simply Elegant FLORIST The Ranch at San Patricio PHOTOGRAPHY Jason Page DECOR Butler’s Rentals

Boutique Showroom!

5826 Wooldridge Rd.

www.ButlerSignatureEvents.com

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HAPPIER WITH HOGAN HOMES find yours.

hoganhomestexas.com

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HOME & GARDEN OPEN HOUSE

RETRO RENOVATION WORDS: Whitney Noble PHOTOS: Jason Page

Just a block off Ocean Drive, this historic home has seen many decades, owners, and styles. But none more impressive than now.

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H

ummingbirds hum a melodic tune beneath the 10 sky-high palm trees bow down to the historic home, accented by a bright blue door. If homes could talk, this one would tell a story of World War II, where the home was built, not necessarily as a residence, but for war efforts.

As rumor has it, the gentleman who lived across the street was good friends with the builder of the home.

He also happened to be the head contractor for the naval bases. He had leftover concrete from that project and used it on the construction of this home! To pay homage to this story, the owner resurfaced the fireplace in the formal living room with concrete.

The home was purchased in 2000. At the time it was an overgrown piece of property. He saw huge potential in it. A collector of the arts and a keen eye for bringing a mix of styles, eras, and mediums into the home, he made his vision a reality. A huge supporter of the local arts, pieces by David Bates, Betty Mobley and Deborah Males, to name a few, are on display throughout the home. But his collection far exceeds Corpus Christi artists. His dining room table, designed by Eero Saarinen in 1958, was designed for Knoll, the award-winning designer furniture company established in 1938. At

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The Eames Lounge and Ottoman chair in the formal living room has been with the owner since the ‘70s.

The chair made its debut on Arlene Francis’ Home Show in 1956, where she referred to it as “quite the departure” from the designers’ typical style.

the 50th anniversary of the design of this particular table, they brought back the rosewood version (which had been discontinued due to the wood becoming endangered), and this table now sits beneath an antique crystal chandelier.

Renovation began shortly after the owner bought the home, beginning with the yard and then moving to the inside, where eventually an add on was created off the master to include a walk-in closet and incredible master bathroom. The owner did, however, want to keep some of the original character. The tiles throughout the entryway and main living/library room are original to the home. They are the same tiles present in the Cathedral downtown, only slightly different colors. They’re hand painted and fire finished, and come from Latin America.

A true eclectic home synergizing the new, the old and some family heirlooms, it’s really a contemporary mid-century à la mode type feel. Antiquity meets modern archive – the home has many more years to give.

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

BART BRASELTON Bart Braselton is the Executive Vice President of Braselton Homes, the Coastal Bend’s oldest and largest Homebuilder and Neighborhood Developer. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Bart is the third generation of Braseltons building in the Bay Area. Returning to Corpus Christi after earning a BBA in Finance, as well as a second BBA 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 Fastest Growing Builders in the U.S., and has grown into one of the Nation’s Largest Homebuilders, earning consistent rankings in the annual lists compiled by both Professional Builder, and Builder Magazine.

Bart, a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi Class 18, has served on numerous local community and business boards.

Presently, he serves on the Board of the Community Development Corporation, as well as the Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, he serves as Chairman of the Coastal Bend GreenBuilt Council, and President of the Board of the Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation.

Braselton and his wife, Michelle, have 5 children, and are active church members at Corpus Christi’s Church Unlimited.

TREATS, NOT TRICKS FROM YOUR HOME It’s October, the season of easy, breezy weather, good eats and tricks or treats. The air has a hint of crispness, the leaves are beginning to change (as much as they change down here in Deep South Texas), and children everywhere are hunting for that perfect costume…. to land them as many treats as possible this Halloween.

- Building materials carefully chosen to ensure that they are of the highest quality and good for the environment, as well as certified Low Emission Green–certified building products to help ensure your new carpet, paint or cabinets don’t make you sick from inhaling nasty toxins.

Let’s admit it, we’d all rather get treats than tricks.

This applies to much in life, especially to our biggest investment…our Home. We want our homes to treat us right and not play any tricks on us this winter!

- Brand new Certified Energy Star Appliances, under warranty, to ensure your piece of mind and to keep your electric bill down

Here are some tricks your Used Home may be playing on you: An electric bill that is like playing Russian Roulette every time you open it- you wonder every month how high it will be this time Scary building materials that can make you sick unless you are careful (and ready to renovate) such as lead paint, asbestos ceiling tiles, formaldehyde flooring, moldy carpet, or filthy ductwork Ticking time bomb appliances that can break at any moment and wreck your Christmas budget, including air conditioning systems and hot water heaters.

Poor insulation will cause you to spend a fortune trying to keep that legendary Corpus Christi wind out of your house this winter and your expensive cool air inside during the summer.

Cheap contractor grade materials that trick you into spending all of your free time being Mr. and Mrs. Fixit every weekend Instead, why not treat yourself to a new Braselton Built Eco-Home! Your New Home pamper you with: - Guaranteed air conditioning bills

- Radiant barrier decking and polycell spray foam insulation, to ensure that your home is keeping the outside air out and to keep the good, cool, clean inside air in, we include our unique fresh air intake systems, and out indoor air circulating systems (which also help prevent the buildup of dangerous carbon monoxide and other toxins.)

- Natural products, inclduging granite and wood flooring.

- Super Energy efficient products including LED and CFL lighting - The most extensive Warranties in South Texas, including a Wriiten One Year Builder Warranty, and a 10 year Structural Warranty - The peace of mind that comes with every Braselto Built home that your family is living in a Green Home that is better for the environment and better for you!

Come tour a Braselton home today. We have model homes and neighborhoods across the Coastal Bend ready to treat you to a stress free homeownership experience, in a neighborhood made to maximize the South Texas lifestyle.

See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton

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SPECIAL PROMOTION

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PROMOTION

BUDGET BLINDS

S

ince March of 2012, Pam Morin has been blindly successful. Owner of Budget Blinds, Morin bought the franchise only 3 years ago and has grown it into what she calls a “happy business,” that’s been built on excellence in service and product quality.

After 20 years as a nurse here in Corpus Christi, Morin needed a change. She began researching different franchises and fell in love with the business model that Budget Blinds provides. Their showroom at 6722 Kram Street showcases their lavish selection of window treatments that includes shutters, blinds, draperies, shades and even window film. The showroom is an “idea place,” Morin explains, where customers can come, see, feel and touch.

However, much of the business model is the “shop at home” model, where Morin packs her car up, and brings the showroom to you for a FREE consultation! Regardless of the window’s size or shape, you can rest assured Budget Blinds serving Corpus Christi, Port Aransas,

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Portland, Calallen, and surrounding areas, will have a customized window coverings solution ready for you. “Our tag line is ‘a style for every point of view.’ I truly believe we offer that at Budget Blinds, something for every style and budget. Another way we put that is ‘1000’s of looks, 100’s of colors, 25 brands, one stylish you,’” says Morin.

Morin’s team consists of herself, the sales consultant, Angel, the installer, and Dustyn, the Administrative Assistant. This tight team works seamlessly together to provide the consultation, installation, and professional service before, during, and after the sale. “We are out to make the experience of purchasing and owning window treatments an affordable, satisfying and hassle-free experience!” Morin exclaims. She believes Budget Blinds offer the largest collection of fabrics in Corpus Christi, with access to over 50,000 fabrics.

They also provide a “No questions asked” replacement warranty for damage or abuse to the

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FULL PRODUCT LINE •

Blinds

•

Plantation Shutters

•

Drapery (and all soft fashions listed above, plus custom bedding and pillows)

•

Solar and Roller Shades

•

Cellular and Pleated Shades

•

Roman Shades

•

Woven Wood Shades

•

Solar Screens

•

Arch Coverings

Outdoor Products •

Motorized and hand operable patio shades

•

Retractable awnings

•

Aluminum plantation shutters

•

Outdoor fabrics for drapes, pillows, cushions

PROMOTION

TESTIMONIAL(S): “We are a returning customer of Pam and Budget Blinds. She initially worked with my husband at his new business location. He was so pleased, we decided to have her come to our home to help with window treatments there.

We recently moved and are in the middle of our 3rd job with Budget Blinds. Pam is so helpful and informed of options and ideas.

Turnaround time is great and the installer is always efficient, courteous, and extremely capable.

Our overall experience with this company is superb, from start to finish, and we’re very impressed with Budget Blinds staff. Pam is a gifted design consultant, and we would recommend her to all of our friends.” –Tripp and Brandey Batey

No Questions Asked (NQA) Replacement Warranty Story:

“I was entirely impressed by Pam’s professionalism and efficiency.

She knows her product and made helpful suggestions. We completed my entire condo windows remodel in only a couple of hours. Then her technician installed on time with beautiful results. I couldn’t be more pleased, and I’ve referred Pam and Budget Blinds to several of my friends.” –Brenda Baker

Two years ago, Budget Blinds supplied an order of blinds for a Navy helicopter pilot who had just moved here and bought a house. After about 6 months, she called to say she’d come home one day to discover her German Shepard had chewed through 9 of her 15 blinds!

She was upset and she said she was calling to repurchase those blinds.

Budget Blinds reminded her about her NQA warranty and that they would replace all 9 for free. She was beyond pleased! Since then, they’ve been doing a lot of business with new Navy pilots that move to the area due to her referrals!

coverings. Each covering is a custom, made-to-order product. While they are a national franchise, they are a locally owned small business. “We treat our customers well because we know they may be our last. Being a national franchise helps us better serve our customers through our vendor alliance that provides multiple price points, solutions and warranties,” describes Morin. With over 1000 Budget Blinds throughout America and Canada, all franchise owners share ideas through a group Facebook page and at their yearly convention. The company was also on the popular show Undercover Boss, which aired right after Morin bought the franchise in 2012. Talk about timing and good publicity, as Morin was making a profit in the first three months of business. She thrives off repeat business and referrals, and no matter the circumstance, her customers come first.

More Info:

Pam Morin Budget Blinds of Corpus Christi Phone: 361-808-7400 Fax: 361-808-7401 Showroom Location: 6722 Kram St. Corpus Christi, TX 78413 M-F 10am - 4pm or by appt.

See our gallery and testimonials at: www.budgetblinds.com/southcorpuschristi See our Design Guide at: www.budgetblinds.com/odg

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LIVE WELL BREAST CANCER

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS WORDS: Sharla Wilkins

OCTOBER IS THE ANNUAL CAMPAIGN TO INCREASE AWARENESS OF THE DISEASE. Breast cancer is the second most common kind of cancer in women. About 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will get breast cancer at some point. However, many women can be survivors if it’s found and treated early.

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BY THE NUMBERS •

Men’s chances of developing breast cancer are about 1 in 1,000

•

Women’s chances of developing breast cancer are about 1 in 8

•

This year in Texas, 16,510 women will be diagnosed

•

This year in Texas, 2,710 will die from the disease

•

Radiology Associates perform approximately 30,000 mammograms a year

•

Mortality rates from breast cancer have decreased by 35% since 1989

•

M

ost everyone is now familiar with the iconic pink breast cancer awareness ribbon. But does the common recognition match the knowledge about the data behind that ribbon? Perhaps for some, but education is key. Breast cancer, the second most common cancer among females in America, is expected to be diagnosed in about 231,840 women this year. Approximately twelve percent of American women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in their lifetime. However, a diagnosis does not automatically mean death.

Survival rates for breast cancer can largely depend on what stage the cancer is in when first diagnosed. Stages range from 0-IV, with five year relative survival rates dropping from 100% for Stages 0 and 1, to 93% for Stage II, 72% for Stage III, and 22% for Stage IV, according to the National Cancer Institute.

As early detection is key to increasing survival rates, routine examinations are essential. Carmen Arias, Marketing Director for Radiology Associates says, “I think the most important thing women can do is have their annual mammogram starting at the age of 40 and doing their monthly self breast exam.”

There is a 3% chance of a woman dying from breast cancer.

Mammograms, which are an x-ray exam of breast tissue, are a diagnostic tool used to try and catch and identify breast cancer at an early stage. A machine specifically designed for this purpose is used, and the breast is compressed between two plates for just a few moments while the x-ray is taken. According to the American Cancer Society, “Mammography can identify breast cancer at an early stage, usually before physical symptoms develop, when the disease is most treatable.”

Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Fundraiser Walk October 17, 9am at the Water Gardens Helpful websites: NationalBreastCancer.org, cancer.org

While they recommend yearly mammograms beginning at age 40, “…the age really depends on family history,” says Kayla Hanson, Senior Manager of Com-

MAKING REMARKABLE PROGRESS TOGETHER 33.2

UNITED STATES

N W DO

% 35

224,500

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LIVES SAVED FROM BREAST CANCER.

19 CE 89

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DEATHS

BREAST CANCER DEATH RATE DOWN

THAT MEANS

1989

2011

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munity Events at the American Cancer Society.

While, according to the American Cancer Society, “About 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary…” there are also lifestyle factors that might increase the risk of developing or dying from breast cancer. Some birth control, hormone therapy, regularly “The most certain overindulging in alcohol, and remaining important overweight or obese after menopause are thing wom- a few examples of what may increase the en can do is risk. Ongoing research is also examining role of environmental factors in develhave their the oping this unfortunately common cancer.

the risk of developing breast cancer. Newer imagining tests are being developed. Vitamin D is being studied to determine if it helps lower the risk of reoccurrence of cancer. Lifestyle factors are also being studied at length.

Mortality rates from breast cancer have dropped since 1989.

With early detection and treatment, there is hope those rates may continue to decrease. Strong and proud survivors are all around us.

annual mammogram starting at the age of 40 and doing their monthly self breast exam.”

There are several different standard therapies for breast cancer. Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and bone-directed therapy are all used as treatment plans.

Surgery is a common treatment for breast cancer and can range from having a small tumor removed, known as breast-conserving surgery, to having one or both breasts removed, known as a mastectomy.

If going the latter route, there are different forms of breast reconstructions that are performed either during the surgery or at a later date.

American Cancer Society, 1-800-227-2345 cancer.org/fightbreastcancer

The research and studies into causes, treatments and prevention of breast cancer continue. Several new drugs, including one related to Vitamin A, are being studied for their effect in reducing

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movement can create sustainable change in your body. This can be a 5-10 minute flow of exercises, 20 minutes of interval training, a nice walk outside, or even self-myofascial release with a foam roller and/or tennis ball.

SIMPLE THINGS DONE SAVAGELY WELL

EAT SIMPLE

If we could all master the everyday simple tasks of our lives, we would be less hurried, more productive, and have more time for what is important. Thanks to crafty advertising and sketchy marketing promising “amazing results” many of us reach out to exotic solutions to problems that could be remedied by simple consistent action. We do not need extreme cleanses, unnecessarily long or intense workouts, and pills to give us a higher quality of life when just a few simple things done savagely well can make all the difference in our lives.

Below are a few simple suggestions that if done on a consistent basis can help you be more productive, move better, and provide you with energy to accomplish everything you need to do on a daily basis.

BEGIN YOUR DAY WITH SUCCESS MAKING THE BED – Making your bed may seem like too simple of a task for some but for others it may be all they can control in their lives that day. I like the idea of making your bed first thing in the morning because it starts the day with a win and you control the process.

Little successes over time can add up to bigger results. Nothing is too simple to appreciate.

DRINK ONE GLASS OF WATER – Another win in the morning can be drinking a 16-30oz glass of water each morning before you do anything else. Depending on your last glass of just water your body may have been without water for 8-12 hours and is in need of hydration. Next to oxygen, water is the most important element we need to function.

STRETCH/MOVE/FOAM ROLL – Add some type of movement to your daily activity regardless of the intensity. Small amounts of focused

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EAT DARK AND COLORFUL – The darker your fruits, veggies and some proteins (think salmon or yellowfin tuna) the more nutritious these items will be for your body. The simplest way to include dark rich colorful foods is to ALWAYS have some prepped and ready to throw in any dish at home.

EAT FOODS WITH FEWER INGREDIENTS – The fewer the ingredients your food has the higher quality and healthier it is for you. Your apple should contain apple! Your fish should contain fish, and not much else! Read the label and the ingredients to verify.

TACKLE YOUR DAY CLEAN YOUR DESK OFF – When trying to accomplish a project at work it is best to have a workspace clear of distracting papers, a phone that is buzzing or pinging every few minutes.

Put away, hide, file or trash as much as you can to avoid as many distractions as possible.

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Your brain does its best work when it can focus 100% on the task at hand.

MAKE A MASTER TO-DO LIST THEN PRIORITIZE IT FOR THE DAY – Create a master to-do list down the left hand side of a sheet of paper. On the right hand side prioritize what must be done today and what can wait or better yet be delegated or not done at all.

CREATE A SLEEP ROUTINE – Most of us struggle getting our 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Many times the reason is we are not consistent about what we do before we go to bed and when we go to bed. A simple yet sometimes challenging fix is creating a routine that prepares us for bed and is done at the same time most nights. Make sure your room is cool, there is no ambient light in your room and you take few minutes to unwind in bed by reading for a few minutes or talking with your spouse or significant other.

Try some of these simple strategies to improve your health, productivity and quality of life.

Master the everyday before wwattempting the exotic.

Committed to Your Success, Adam Farrell M.S. CSCS YFS Pinnacle Performance and Fitness Founder/Owner

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CUISINE FARM TO TABLE .93 FOOD DIRECTORY .96

HALLOWEEN POPCORN BALLS WITH HAUNTINGLY HEALTHY BUTTERNUT BISQUE WORDS: Justin & Kayla Butts PHOTOS: Rachel Durrent

BEFORE WE SEND OUR LITTLE ONES OUT TO TRICK-OR-TREAT, WE PLAY A TRICK OF OUR OWN BY GIVING THEM SWEET HEALTHY TREATS. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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O

n Halloween, we give our children a sweet wholesome snack to start the night with ghoulishly good fun and minimize the candy binge that will haunt them later.

popcorn balls. On our farm, we grow colorful varieties of heirloom Indian corn specifically for popping. You can tailor these treats to your own taste by adding seeds, nuts, dried fruit, or even cayenne pepper for a kick.

Homemade popcorn balls are the perfect dish to begin the quest for candy. These treats are fun, sweet, and incredibly delicious. You kids will not be able to stop eating them—but this may be the healthiest sweet they enjoy all night.

Dressing up the popcorn balls with tulle, construction paper, and stickers turns this whole-grain snack into an adorable decoration. Decorated popcorn balls are one of the oldest treats in America. Native Americans made popcorn balls into statues during religious ceremonies a thousand years ago. Pioneer settlers in the wilds of America decorated sweetened popcorn balls during holidays and festivals.

Popcorn balls are super easy to make.

Simply fill a bowl with high-quality popcorn, add honey and melted butter, and press the popcorn into balls. It’s that simple. Then all you have to do is dress them up for Halloween!

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We play another fun trick on the kids by treating them to a healthy dish of butternut bisque before trick-or-treating. We serve the bisque in a goblet and tell them it is a witch’s brew to give them energy for [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

getting candy. When the steam rises like a bubbling cauldron, the children love it.

Kids never have soup served to them in such elegance.

This bisque recipe calls for butternut squash, but you can use any heirloom winter squash you find at the farmer’s market: striped green cushaw, Japanese red kuri, tatume, acorn, or buttercup.

The butternut bisque is rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, and the healthy popcorn balls call for local honey, not the high-fructose corn syrup suggested in most recipes. Best of all, these treats are not just for kids. These recipes are perfect for an adult Halloween gathering.

So whether you are kid, or a kid at heart, start your Halloween with a healthy treat that tastes so good, you may not even want your candy!

HALLOWEEN POPCORN TREATS These festive popcorn balls are made with local honey, rather than the high-fructose corn syrup called for in many recipes. Kids will love assembling these adorable figures and they make great party favors for children and grown-ups alike.

Makes 12 treats Cook time: 7 minutes Prep time: 10 minutes

Ingredients: 8 cups popcorn, unsalted and without butter (see below for more details) 2 tbsp butter ½ cup honey (recommend local honey) ¾ tsp salt Optional add-ins: ½ tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, ½ cup roasted pumpkin seeds, 1/3 cup pistachios, or 1 cup dried fruit For decorations: lollipop sticks, ¾ yard each of colored tulle, eye and mouth stickers, construction paper (for noses), miniature witch hat, small feathers, raffia, pipe cleaners, and glue gun.

HAUNTINGLY HEALTHY BUTTERNUT BISQUE Fill the kiddos with this vitamin-rich snack before trick-or-treating. This decadent bisque makes a wonderful party hors d’oeuvre when served in a festive glass.

Serves 4-6 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 40 minutes

Ingredients: 2 tbsp unsalted butter 1 large sweet onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cubed 4 cups chicken stock 1 tbsp brown sugar 2 tsp salt ¼ tsp poultry seasoning 1/8 tsp ground ginger 2 whole bay leaves Pinch nutmeg

Directions:

¾ cup organic whipping cream

Directions: Heat butter over medium heat in a large pot.

Add onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and beginning to turn translucent.

Add garlic and sauté one additional minute, stirring frequently. Add butternut squash, stock, and seasonings. Bring to a vigorous boil and reduce to low-medium heat.

Cook for 25-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until squash is fork tender.

Remove soup from heat and add cream.

Allow soup to cool slightly, then puree with an immersion blender or food processor until well blended. Serve in cocktail or shot glasses. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

If using microwave popcorn: follow package directions and prepare two bags of popped corn. Place prepared corn into a large heatproof bowl.

If using stovetop method and corn kernels: Add 1 tablespoon coconut butter to large pot over medium heat. Add enough kernels to cover the bottom of the pot (1 kernel deep). Once kernels begin to pop, cover with lid, and continually move pot in a circular motion over the burner until corn stops popping, about 3 minutes.

Place prepared corn into a large heatproof bowl.

Add butter, honey, and salt (along with additional spices, as desired) to small sauté pan over medium heat. Whisk mixture until a rolling boil is reached. Remove from heat and pour mixture over popped corn (add in any additional seeds, nuts, or dried fruit at this time). Let sit for ten minutes, or until cool enough to handle.

Using an 8’x8’ piece of plastic wrap, form one cup of popcorn honey mixture into a ball using your hands. This process will require force to get the balls to stay intact.

Insert the lollipop stick into the ball. Wrap the formed ball in tulle, secure with raffia, and decorate as desired. thebendmag.com

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DINING THE SCOOP ON OUR CITY’S FOOD SCENE BARBACOA

$$$ 500 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 887-2121 Mon-Th: Lunch and Dinner Fri-Sat: Dinner Only

HESTER’S CAFÉ & COFFEE BAR

$ 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 (361) 885-0151 Tues-Sat: Breakfast and Lunch

BELLINO’S

$$ 3815 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 814-8998 Tues-Sat: Lunch and Dinner

HOEGEMEYER’S BBQ

$ 711 Concrete Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 884-4227 Mon-Fri: Lunch Only

BONNA-PETIT

5894 Everhart Rd # A, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 334-0888

T

aco Journalism recently wrapped their epic six-week journey chronicling 50 different recipes from 10 cities across the state for their new book, Tacos of Texas. Corpus Christi’s own Gerald Flores, a local designer, is not only a member of their “Taco Council,” he designed the TACOS snapback for the crew. Look for Southside Barbacoa and other local taquerias when the book releases next year. The Tacos of Texas snapback can be purchased at www.tacogear.com.

CORPUS CHRISTI $$ 415 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-8885 Mon-Fri: Lunch and Dinner Sat: Dinner Only ANDY’S KITCHEN

$ 5802 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 993-0251 Mon-Sun: Breakfast and Lunch

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HOUSE OF ROCK

BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE

KATZ 21

CITRUS BISTRO

MAMMA MIA’S

EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB

MESQUITE ST. PIZZA & PASTA CO.

$ 1724 N. Tancahuapus Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 (361) 884-2739 Mon - Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Southside Barbacoa

AKA SUSHI

$ 4301 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 334-2579 Mon-Sat: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

ATOMIC OMELETTE & GRILL

$ 6313 Wooldridge Rd #10, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 334-3942 Tues-Sun: Breakfast and Lunch

AUTHENTIC NEW YORK PIZZA

$$ 5838 S. Staples Street Corpus Christi, Texas (361) 986-1151 Tues – Sun: Lunch and Dinner BLEU BISTRO

$ 100 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-2047 Mon- Fri: Lunch Only $$ Water Street Seafood Company, 309 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 884-7873 Thurs-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

$$ 511 Starr St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-7625 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner $$$ 5702 Spohn Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 884-1221 Mon-Sat: Dinner Only $$$ 128 N Mesquite St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 883-3773 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only $$ 617 Mesquite St. Corpus Christi,Texas 78401 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner MOLÉ

GINGER CAFÉ & GRILL

$$ 7009 S Staples, 103, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 946-9834 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

$$ 6042 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 334-6081 Tues – Sun: Lunch and Dinner Sat – Sun: Breakfast

GRIMALDI’S

NIKO’S STEAKHOUSE

HARRISON’S LANDING

REPUBLIC OF TEXAS

$$ 5488 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 (361) 980-8600 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner $$ 108 Peoples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 881-8503 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

$$ 5409 Saratoga Boulevard, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 992-2333 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner $$$$ 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 887-1600Mon-Sun: Dinner Only

The savings you want, the coverage you deserve.

Choose the coverage that’s right for you at a price that fits your budget.

Making an informed decision when selecting coverage for you, your family, and your home is JNQPSUBOU $BMM NF UPEBZ UP MPFBSO IPX NVDI ZPV DBO TBWF CZ DPNCJOJOH BVUP IPNF BOE MJGF

YOUR LOCAL FARMERS AGENT CURRENTLY OFFERS SAVINGS FOR:

“IĘźm your local Farmers agent.â€?

JACK ALSPAUGH

t AUTO t HOME t LIFE t COLLECTABLE AUTO

t BUSINESS t 3&/5&3 t #0"5 t 1&340/" 8"5&3$3"'5

t .0503$:$-& t $0/%0 t .0#*-& )0.&4 t 3&$3&"5*0/"VEHICLE

361.232.4717 :03,508/ #-7% #-%( t $03164 $)3*45* 59

jalspaugh@farmersagent.com

7 IS YOUR H OME WORT H 7 ¢ SQUARE F PER OOT?

¢

Ask your agent which photographer they use for their #listingfotos If your agent doesn’t have a good answer, have them call Sell your home, leave the photography to me.

361-589-9050 | JASONDAVIDPAGE.COM 234 Leming Avenue as photographed for The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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97

ESPRESSO

Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-8683 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner YARDARM

$$ 4310 Ocean Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 855-8157 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only

PORT ARANSAS BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL

$$$ 258 Snapdragon Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-4653 Mon – Sun: Lunch and Dinner CAFE PHEONIX

$ 229 Beach Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-9277 Mon-Th: Lunch Only; Fri-Sat: Lunch and Dinner IRIE’S

Green Light Coffee

600 Leopard St #100, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

G

LC Espresso Roast is a multi-origin arabica blend: Mexico, Ethiopia, Peru, and Sumatra. All our beans are organic and fair trade FLO certified. Our signature roast is produced by Third Coast Roasting Company out of Austin Texas (est. 1993). They are a founding member of the world’s only Fair Trade coffee importing collective; purchasing coffee through direct relationships with farming communities, and focusing exclusively on traceable, organic coffee--grown, exported, and imported through co-ops.

RUSSO’S COAL FIRED ITALIAN KITCHEN

$$ 6418 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 986-0620 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

THAI COTTAGE

$ 5830 McArdle Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 993-0777 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner TOWN & COUNTRY CAFÉ

SANG’S IMPERIAL CAFE

$$ 4650 Corona Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 808-8881 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner

$ Town & Country Shopping Center, 4228 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 992-0360 Mon-Sun: Breakfast and Lunch

SALTWATER GRILL

$$ 2401 Cimarron Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 993-7258 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner TAKENIWA

$$ 5216 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 356-6888 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner 98 the bend magazine

VIETNAM RESTAURANT

$$$ 701 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 853-2682 Mon-Fri: Lunch and Dinner Sat: Dinner Only

WATER STREET SEAFOOD COMPANY

$ 503 North Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-2310 Tues-Sun: Lunch Only LISABELLA’S BISTRO

$$$ 5009 Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-4222 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only PORT “A” PIZZERIA

$$ 407 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-5226 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner ROOSEVELT’S AT THE TARPON INN

$$$ 200 E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-1540 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only SHELLS

$$$ 522 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-7621 Weds-Mon: Lunch and Dinner THE PELICAN CLUB

$$$ 914 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-0580 Weds-Sun: Dinner Only

$$ 309 N Water St,

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

TROUT STREET BAR & GRILL

$$$ 104 West Cotter Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-7800 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

VENETIAN HOT PLATE

$$$ 232 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-7617 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only

ROCKPORT BELLINO’S

$$ 523 S Fulton Beach Rd Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 729-9003 Thurs-Mon: Lunch and Dinner CHARTROOM

$$$ 39 Mazatlan Drive Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 790-2450 Tues - Sun: Lunch and Dinner DAILY GRIND

$ 302 S Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 790-8745 Tues-Sat: Breakfast and Lunch GLOW

$$ 1815 Broadway St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-2644 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only JJ’S LITTLE BAY CAFÉ

$ 302 Highway 35 North, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 205-2713 Mon-Sun: Breakfast and Lunch LATITUDE 28˚02’

$$$ 105 N Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-9009 Mon-Sat: Dinner PANJO’S PIZZA

$$ 2744 Highway 35 North, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 729-1411 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner SHEMPY’S GRILL

$$ 3911 Highway 35 South Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-0019 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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