December January 2014

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2014, ISSUE 9

40 YEARS

OF THE NUTCRACKER

Deep in the Art of Texas P.32

Casa de ﾃ］gels P.34

Remembering the Miracle P.66

Look

Younger

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When it comes to weight loss surgery in Corpus Christi–

Surgical Weight Loss

Now There’s a Better Weigh

• Gastric Bypass • Gastric Sleeve • Gastric Band • Revisions

Surgery in Corpus Christi!

Medical Weight Loss • Physician Guided • Metabolic Testing • VO2 Testing • Nutrition Counseling • Exercise Counseling • Medication Management

Several plans to fit your needs!

Restoring hope and health in the Coastal Bend Lloyd Stegemann, MD, FASMBS “I truly have the greatest job in the world.

I get to help people return to the life they deserve; a healthier life that is not defined by their weight. What a blessing. I hope you will give us a call and let us help you.

You deserve a healthier life.”

5826 Esplanade Dr. • Suite 102 Corpus Christi

361-500-2898

WORDS: CISSY TABOR PHOTOS: RACHEL DURRENT

www.BetterWeighCenter.com

FEATURES P.37

Events

Heat Index P.10 Social Hour P.16

Coastal Trends Here’s To You P.22

P.24 P.38

The Arts

Studio C P.28 Deep in the Art of Texas P.32

Giving Back

Casa de Ángels P.34

Coastal Bend Living

P.70

P. 52

Cuisine

Farm To Table P.74 Authentic New York Pizza P.79

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Happy Holidays from

This Holiday Season give your family the joy of ecowater.

Call: (361) 814-8140 Today and get installed before the new year!

Schedule a consultation & receive a FREE mini-facial.

5262 S. Staples St. Suite 300 Corpus Christi, TX 78411 www.ecowater.com

Our mission is to provide medical transportation for critically ill or injured persons requiring medical or trauma facilities within our south Texas service area.

Mutual Funds*

As a non-profit, emergency assistance is provided to all persons regardless of their ability to pay.

IRA’S* / Roth IRA’s* Reerement Plan Rollovers* Stocks* / Bonds* / Oppons*

At least 1 in every 4 flights transfers a child to a higher level of care

529 Plans - College Savings Plans* Annuiies, Life Insurance LongLong-Term Care, Disability - Personal Income Proteccon Tax Preparaaon & Planning Notary Services Bookkeeping / Payroll Services Medicare Supplement Insurance *

Bert W. Raglin, EA

Enrolled to Praccce Before the IRS Investment Advisor Representaave (IAR) Advisory Consultant

Office 361.992.7053 Cell 361.834.9534 www.bwrtaxservice.com 6500 SPID Suite 11 Corpus Chriss, TX 78412 *Bert Raglin, Registered Representaave, Securiies offered through H.D. Vest Investment ServicesSM, Member SIPC, 6333 N. State Highway 161, Fourth Floor, Irving, TX 75038, 972-870-6000.

BWR Financial & Tax Service is not a registered broker/dealer or independent investment advisory firm.

Advisory services offered through H.D. Vest Advisory ServicesSM,

Help us save lives.

Donate today!

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www.haloflight.org | 361.265.0509 thebendmag.com

7

REAL ESTATE AROUND “THE BEND”

The Real Estate market in Corpus Christi is heating up, at long last it’s a “Seller’s Market.” Inventory is down. Prices are up, and interest rates are holding steady.

What does this mean for you as a seller?

If you are thinking of selling your home, now is the perfect time to consider putting your home on the market for sale. Since there are more buyers and fewer listings you home should sell quickly.

Searching for a home?

If you are a buyer looking for that perfect dream home, let us help you make the search easier. The holidays are fast approaching and so are increasing home values. Corpus Christi and surrounding areas market values have increased an average of 15% in some neighborhoods as compared to this time last year.

For more detailed information about your neighborhood, please contact Kern and she will provide professional courteous service to help.

The “K” Team Can handle all of your real estate needs.

Teamwork from the Team that WORKS!

GET TO KNOW THE “K” TEAM Kern Egger: Broker Associate and Team Leader. kern@kernegger.com // 361-947-KERN (5376)

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Durrent

ART DIRECTOR: Julio Studios

PHOTOGRAPHY: Kateri Reyes Jason Page Michael Diamante Dick Wittliff Pamela Fulcher

OPERATIONS: Kaley Regas MANAGING EDITOR: Carol Pate MARKETING & EVENTS: Stefanie DeWaters Account Executives: Lori Bodine Candace Reichert CULINARY EDITORS: Justin & Kayla Butts CONTRIBUTORS: Sam Ferris Cissy Tabor Kateri Reyes Whitney Noble

DISTRIBUTION: Kevin Kusenberger 361.792.3606 SUBMISSIONS: editor@thebendmag.com ADVERTISING: info@thebendmag.com THE BEND OFFICE: 5262 S. Staples. St. Ste.300 Corpus Christi, TX 78411 Phone: 361.792.3606 THEBENDMAG.COM

Ed Egger: KW Commercial Specialist (Commercial, Farm, & Ranch)

Edegger69@gmail.com // 361-947-8400 Tayler Godsey: Buyer’s Agent & Licensed Contract Coordinator

taylergodsey@kw.com // 361-232-1234

Copyright © 2014 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 @thebendmag @thebendmag

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

Monique Ahlers Monique Ahlers REALTOR® REALTOR®

Monique Ahlers

REMEMBERING A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE

REALTOR®

361.813.5025

I

SpeakWithMonique@aol.com

coldwellbanker.com/website/moniqueahlers PACESETTER STEEL REALTORS® Each office is independently owned and operated.

361.813.5025 361.813.5025

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coldwellbanker.com/website/moniqueahlers coldwellbanker.com/website/moniqueahlers PACESETTER STEEL

REALTORS PACESETTER STEEL Each office is independently owned and operated.

REALTORS® ®

Each office is independently owned and operated.

Michael Morgan, Agent Michael DDMorgan, Agent D Morgan, Agent 5515-B SaratogaBlvd Blvd South 5515-B Saratoga South Staples @ Blvd Staples @Saratoga Saratoga Blvd Corpus Christi, Corpus Christi,TXTX78413-2944 78413-2944 Bus (361) 992-3636 Fax (361) 992-8739 Bus (361) 992-3636 Fax (361) 992-8739 Serving Southside CC and Flour Bluff Serving Southside CC and Flour Bluff www.michaelmorganinsurance.com

, Agent

Blvd South ga Blvd www.michaelmorganinsurance.com X 78413-2944 36 Fax (361) 992-8739 CC and Flour Bluff

rganinsurance.com

739

m

n late October, I sat at my desk watching car after car fly down S.P.I.D. Our team had just embarked on an audacious mission to compile a list of 361 reasons to love the Coastal Bend. It was a bold idea that I hoped our staff and supporters would rally behind.

Coming up with our list of 361 reasons was the easy part. The difficulty lay in the execution of compiling everything together, ordering it in a way that made sense, making it all visually appealing and then the challenge of fitting it all into a small segment of the magazine. We all have Stefanie DeWaters and Kaley Regas to thank for coordinating the entire effort. I knew it would be demanding, but I wanted to end the year on a strong note. This is what we are all about; this is the heart of our mission. But on that day, as I stared out the window, I felt as if something were missing from our editorial lineup for December. We had checked all of the necessary boxes, but it just felt as if something were lacking. That’s when the phone rang.

On the other line was one of our contributors, and she had some news.

Kathryn Childers, author and local celebrity, was receiving an unusual amount of requests for her classic book, Texas Snow. If you are a long time resident of area, at least a decade that is, it’s very likely that you remember December 24th, 2004. It’s a night frozen in the memories of anyone who was around to experience the near foot of snow that covered the Coastal Bend – just in time for Christmas. People often talk of Christmas miracles; however, this truly was one. Fortunately, Childers was able to capture the experience in the pages of her book. I knew that including memories of that spectacular night was the perfect way to complete this months issue.

There is something special about this time of year. For a while, I thought it was the decorations, desserts and classic carols, but after the last gift is opened, it’s easy to feel as if something is missing. Every Christmas, my mom sets out a few small porcelain figures in her formal living room.

We all refer to this arrangement of wisemen, shepherds and animals surrounding a newborn baby as a nativity set. It reminds us of the original Christmas miracle. I believe that miracles still happen around this time of year because the foundation of the holiday season is based around a miracle that happened over 2,000 years ago. If you are in need of a miracle this holiday season, I promise you that, if you look closely enough, you will find one.

Best wishes for your holiday season and happy new year!

JORDAN REGAS 10 the bend magazine

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“Where the view is off the chart!�

39 Mazatlan Drive

Rockport, Texas 78382

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chartroomrockport.com

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HEAT INDEX

WHAT GETTI ’S N AROU G HOT ND TH BEND? E

BREWSTER STREET SOUTHSIDE Established in 2006, Brewster Street Icehouse started as an idea for a place to sell pizza and beer. Today, it’s much, much more. It’s the go-to place on Thursday nights for Texas Country live music, baseball night fun before and after a Hooks game, and a playground for the kids. With such established success, the owners of Brewster Street are venturing out to the southside. Corpus Christi will be home to a second Brewster Street Ice House on the northwest corner of Holly Road and S. Staples Street. “We’re going to spend a lot of money making it look old,” laughs owner Bill Durrill of Durrill Properties. Not wanting to “fix something that isn’t broken,” Durrill plans to keep the same décor, the same menu, and, hopefully, the same success.

“It’s a huge risk,” he admits.

‘Brew 2,’ as it’s referred to around the Durrill Properties office, will be much larger overall than Brewster’s #1. Inked in the blueprints are a larger restaurant, kitchen, bar and service area, and porches on three sides. The existing 1000-square-foot playground of the Tancahua street location will be increased to 7000 square feet at the new southside location. Taking into account the residential locality, the music venue will be smaller. “We are very cognizant of the sound ordinance and all the nearby residents, so we’re not going to be as big of a (music) production,” Durrill says.

Although open to the elements, the new building is designed to be self contained when needed, with overhead doors that can be closed to contain noise and allow air conditioning and heating. An addition to the menu will be breakfast, as well as something children and adults are sure to love: an ice cream bar. Another Brewster’s in Corpus Christi, another family- friendly place for fun, food and entertainment.

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Kaboom! Playground The Museum of Science and History’s latest project opened with a boom (and lots of science) on Nov. 22. The Kaboom! Playground, donated by the non-profit organization Kaboom, was built by 200 volunteers earlier that month. Take the kids for an outing during museum hours. 1900 N. Chaparral St., 826-4667, ccmuseum.com.

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EVENTS La Posada Boat Parade

December 12th – 13th, 2014 Padre Island www.laposadacc.com

Hosted by the Padre Island Yacht Club, boats in the parade are well-lit with festive lights and many varied themes & decorations.

The boats travel a pre-determined route through the canals of the Laguna Madre.

This event is well publicized in advance, and many residents of the Island choose these evenings to host Christmas parties in their homes and on their decks on/off the canals.

Beginning in 1998, the PIYC added another great tradition, teaming up with the United States Marine Corps with the common goal of collecting toys for the annual “Toys for Tots” drive.

Harbor Lights Festival December 6th, 2014

Corpus Christi Bayfront Marina www.harborlightsfestival.org This fun-filled event has grown into a South Texas tradition and is a “must attend” family event. The fun begins with the AEP Texas Children’s parade and continues with the Optimist Club children’s activity area, inflatable games, cookie decorating, live entertainment, food and gift vendors, and enjoyable family activities throughout the evening. Enjoy the Jingle Bell Rock festival in wishes for everyone a peaceful and loving holiday season and a prosperous New Year.

Omni’s New Years Eve Gala December 31st, 2014

Omni Corpus Christi Hotel www.omnihotels.com Celebrate the New Year in style. Join Omni Corpus Christi as they usher in the New Year with a celebration you’ll never forget. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, late check-out and two tickets to our New Year’s Eve Gala, featuring a decadent dinner buffet, live music and a champagne toast.

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EVENTS

1.

WE D I D YOU SEE D THE UN ?

O R D A BEN

(SOCIAL HOUR) 2.

2.

3.

4.

Signature Chef’s Event Benefiting

The March of Dimes

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1. Deven & Mayuri Bhakta 2.James & Kimberly, Kailani & Kekoa DeVisser, Albert & Sharon Kollaja 3.Corey O’Dell, Dana Pate, Anabella Garza, Ron Garza & Delia Case 4. Joanna Busenlehner, Cortney Weaver, Julie Havelka & Erin Harkins

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EVENTS 1.

1.

2.

2.

4.

3.

3.

5.

4.

The Fur Ball Masquerade Benefiting

Paws and Claws An Auxilary to the Gulf Coast Humane Society 1. Vijay and Pooka Bingingnavele 2. Henry Blackmon & Morgane Heinz 3. Michael & Amanda Miller 4. Taylor and Kayci Hunt 5. Elizabeth Welsh, Kauai Hunt, Barbara Paris & Shannon Johnson

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5.

professional/Medical Office space in the heart of a growing area 125 Northshore Blvd. Portland, TX 3300 sq. ft. work stations, exam rooms, private office & more

offered by hunsaker realtors Brion hunsaker, broker 361-815-8461

WITH A LITTLE HELP FROM YOUR FRIENDS‌

Lawanda Skrobarczyk

Aide Saenz

Residential Mortgage Loan Originator RMLO #282043

Residential Mortgage Loan Originator RMLO #197646

361-693-5605 direct 361-765-9840 cell

361-693-5604 direct 361-688-8956 cell

lawanda@wbm.com

asaenz@wbm.com

YOU CAN GIVE YOURSELF A GIFT THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME.

Corpus Christi 5026 Holly Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 Willow Bend Mortgage Company, LLC. / NMLS #297376/ 361.853.9987

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“Coastal Closet is your own seaside mini department store. The only place on the coast where you can finish off those beautiful touches for your home and yourself, all under one roof. We offer the quality foundation needed to create something truly beautiful.”

Exclusive Designers B LA Q U E L ABEL B ELL A NOTTE D I A N M A L OUF EB ERJAY EL L A MOSS G O L D S IGN H A N ROW H A L E BOB J O H N R OBSHAW KAI K I S S Y KISSY L*S PA CE M O TH ER DENIM N I G H TCAP N O O D LE AND BOO PA I GE P O M P OM R A C H EL PAL LY S EA FOL LY S O U TH ERN TIDE S PA NX TA R T TK EES

and much more!

1700 State Highway 361, Suite E Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749 1881

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COASTALCLOSETPORTARANSAS.COM

(COASTAL TRENDS) ou! y o t ere’s e New

H

h g in t Brin ith a new w Year ok. lo

..

s.

Cheer

DRESS

- Parker

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DRESS - Marineblu $77

BLOUSE - Pink owl $50 DRESS

- Phoebe by Kay Unger

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JEANS - Level 99 $144

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PURSE - Urban Originals $68

Count down

and wind down.

Make this New Year's Even unforgettable by celebrating at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel. Starting at $259 per night, the package includes deluxe accommodations, late checkout and two tickets to the New Year's Eve Gala.* The Gala will feature continuous live music, an elegant dinner buffet, champagne toast at midnight, and much more. Individual tickets $100.

Must be 21 years old or older to attend, Semiformal attire required, no jeans, black tie attire optional, dress code strictly enforced.

To purchase or learn more, call (361) 887-1600 or visit www.omnihotels.com/CorpusChristiNewYear

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DRESS

Pheobe by Kay Unger-

DRESS

- Korovilas

BLOUSE ROMPER - Chasen Sully $126 - Entro - $55

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NECKLACE - Accentuality $52

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JACKET DRESSES - Ark & Co $96 - Kay Unger

DRESS - Ark & Co $90 BLOUSE - Ark & Co $90 JEANS - Level 99 $129

CLOTHES - BELLA JEWEL 3636 S. ALAMEDA SUITE F LOCATION - THE OMNI HOTEL PHOTOGRAPHER - MICHAEL DIAMANTE MODELS:

ALYSSA SHEPARD, DREW & LAUREN BECQUET, JOE SHAW & BRITTANY HUNTER

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Decades of Diamonds Almost ever yone has someone in t heir fa m ily t hat remembers going into Habeeb’s Jewelers as fa r back as 1956.

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20 years of age, with a huge amount of determination and perseverance, Camilles Original Jewelry Designs was opened in 1975. Dad taught her the art of design, casting and finishing. For more than 39 years the success of her business has grown, and her designs are worldwide.

Customers come to her when they want something truly special and unique and custom made.

Tawnya LaPointe has been designing with Camille for more than 35 years, and Lisa Ruff for more than 10 years. These girls are true artists in every sense of the word, making each design by hand and transforming it into a treasured piece that her customers will cherish forever. Her loyal staff, including Catherine, Ashley, and Nicole, have been a great assets to her business success.

With the support and guidance of Mom and Dad, my sister Vicki and her husband Fred opened Victoria’s Jewels in November 1978 in Fort Worth, Texas. They also worked together as a team, establishing wonderful customer relationships and a very solid foundation in the jewelry industry. Vicki specializes in colored stones and gems, and Fred designs and does customers’ repairs in house. In 1980, Vicki and Fred moved their store from Fort Worth and took over Mom and Dad’s location at Town and Country, and Habeeb’s moved to Padre Island Drive.

Through the 58 years we have been in business, Mom and Dad have taught and trained numerous others who have come to open their own stores.

I have worked in the store since I was 8 years old, and I am still standing behind those same counters today, along with Gloria Tapia, who has been with us for more 12 years, as we strive to continue the tradition that my parents started.

A

family business for more than five decades has become a legacy in Corpus Christi.

Emil and Marie Habeeb opened their first store on September 29, 1956, a dream come true for them. This is truly a family business. They worked together everyday as a team, and sometimes in the evenings they would bring merchandise home to be separated and priced, with five small children all gathered around to help.

A combination of Marie’s outgoing personality and Emil’s enduring patience was the balance that led to a very successful business venture. The key to their success was TRUE CARING! Caring about each customers needs and doing everything possible to make them happy; making lasting friendships with their customers because of their sincerity and

heartfelt kindness.

Growing up in the jewelry business, we all took turns working in the store, and during busy seasons we were waiting on customers, cleaning and doing whatever we could to help. Mom and Dad always made us feel like we were needed, and Mom always said, “If you can’t depend on your family, then who can you depend on!”

Habeeb’s Jewelers was growing, and in April 1966 moved into a larger location in Town and Country Shopping Center and remained there for 24 years. On July 7,1969, Habeeb’s Westwood Jewelers was opened in Annaville. Determination and hard work proved to be a success when store #3, Habeeb’s Portland Jewelers, opened in September 1972.

It is amazing how many customers come in the store and are still wearing the rings, pendants, bracelets, and other things that they had purchased from Mom and Dad 40 and 50 years ago.

Our success was because honesty, integrity, and exceptional customer service was instilled in us by our parents, and it is astounding to think of the hundreds and hundreds of happy customers that have walked through the doors, all because TWO SPECIAL PEOPLE TRULY CARED! My heartfelt hope is that the legacy will be continued by our children and grandchildren for many generations to come!

6343 S.PADRE ISLAND DRIVE (HABEEB SQUARE)

With a love for jewelry design and very original ideas, my sister Camille decided it was time to open her own business. At

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CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS 78412 (361) 991-1264 WWW.HABEEBSJEWELERS.COM

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Studio C

O

il isn’t the only thing booming in South Texas. Thanks to a number of dedicated local artists, a coastal renaissance is taking place along Corpus Christi’s downtown bayfront, and if it’s up to Debbie Cannatella and the artists of Studio C, this is only the beginning.

In January 2013, Pat Conway approached Debbie Cannatella about a gallery venture to be housed in the old gift shop at the Art Center of Corpus Christi. For years, the room was used only for storage since the closing of the gift shop. With the successful opening of Citrus Bayfront Bistro that prior September, it seemed a good time to also fill that empty storage room, labeled Studio C for location purposes, with something of value.

“With the successful opening of Citrus Bayfront Bistro that prior September, it seemed a good time to also fill that empty storage room, labeled Studio C for location purposes, with something of value.”

When Cannatella moved to Corpus Christi five years ago, she couldn’t understand why small towns such as Rockport and Port Aransas are seen as an “artsy” area and Corpus Christi, with all it has to offer, was not. She believed in being part of the solution, and teamed up with Pat Conway and Kathy Wagner. They, too, believed that we can’t have enough art in Corpus Christi, and that filling our city with more art galleries will only help us be seen as a viable city for high quality art. Eventually, five artists from five different mediums came together to create Studio C. “We wanted to offer an ‘art experience’ for the downtown area; it was an opportunity to showcase local artists and educate the public about different mediums with which art is created,” says Cannatella.

For Cannatella, this wasn’t her first rodeo - or studio, rather. While living in Chicago, she was in charge of procuring satellite galleries for an art school and gallery in Oak Park. Later, while living in Tyler, she helped the city open its first fine art gallery, which just celebrated its fifth year

| PHOTOS: RACHEL DURRENT|

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of hosting exhibits.

Pat Conway had also worked in galleries in Pennsylvania, and Kathy Wagner brought an extensive background in sales.

Also, Pat and Kathy were two of the seven founding members of Treehouse Art Collective on Water Street.

The model at Studio C is to have exhibiting artists showcase their work on fourmonth contracts. So, three times a year, they “re-invent themselves.” All current artists leave, and a new set of artists are brought in. The owners also take down their own work, change it out or move it elsewhere.

“Our patrons get excited coming in after a transition to see what’s on display. Professional artists that we talk to about coming into our gallery

say they’ve never heard of such a business model, and it has become very popular, being copied in smaller towns in the Hill Country,” says Cannatella.

At first, Studio C only concentrated on local artists, but then decided they didn’t want to affect the Art Center’s sales from their galleries, so they reached out to artists from all over Texas. Every artist is juried in, not only to make sure their work is of good quality, but also to make sure two artists aren’t selling the same thing at the same time in the gallery.

“We don’t want them having to compete with one another.

We bring in 16-18 artists each contract period, and, of course, we sell our own work as well,” says Cannatella It is a lot of work for the owners. Several of them take

weekend trips all over Texas looking for artists.

“I’m a member of a group called Artists of Texas, who have an extensive website and exhibitions all over the state.

I pull candidates from AOT, as well as recommendations from my artist networks. Pat Conway and I have taken trips to Austin and Houston, visiting their art districts and galleries. We recently went to the Texas Clay Festival looking for talented clay artists. Kathy Wagner exhibits in art festivals and brings jewelry design suggestions from those locations,” says Cannatella.

Pam Gouverne and Deborah Greer are the newest partners, joining just this year. They all feel passionate about the value of art in everyone’s lives and hope to bring more opportu-

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nities for Corpus Christi residents to view works created by artists from all over our state.

Make sure to book your group luncheon at Citrus Bistro and make an appointment with Studio C Gallery to host a “Gallery Tour” after your luncheon, where you will learn about each individual artist in Studio C Gallery and the medium in which they work. Debbie Cannatella periodically schedules three to four day watercolor workshops across the nation.

In Corpus Christi, workshops are scheduled annually at the Art Center of Corpus Christi.

www.studiocgallery.com 100 N. Shoreline Blvd.

361.881.8325

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Southern Charm

NEVER BLEND IN Experience the unusual at The Bay Window

Camille’s Original Jewelery Designs www.CamillesOriginal.com

361.991.0831

Diamonds & Desserts

Thursday, December 18th Friday, December 19th - with Santa!

Join Us From 4pm-6pm!

Habeeb’s Jewelers

One of a kind scarves

5017 Saratoga Suite #105 Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 993-3323 www.SouthernCharmCC.com

6345-A S. Padre Island Drive Habeebs Square

705 HWY 35 N . Rockport, TX facebook: The Bay Window Rockport

www.HabeebsJewelers.com 361.991.1264

Studio C Gallery www.studiocgallery.com

Infant & Children’s Clothing, Shoes & Accessories...

Now Carrying Dancewear

LOCATED IN THE LAMAR PARK SHOPPING CENTER 3818 S. Alameda

361.991.2540

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Located in the Lamar Park Shopping Center 411 Doddridge, Suite 102 361.225.2838 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

Deep in the Art of Texas “Deep in the Art of Texas” is an exhibit now on display at the Art Museum of South Texas. This exhibit contains a hundred years of paintings of Texas, from 1850 to 1950.

T

words: Justin Butts

he artists included in this exhibit participated in the scenes depicted in their paintings, and they were masters in their forms. Their art gives life to the grand adventure of Texas history, to the beauty of the land, the skill of the artisans, and the dreams of the pioneers who settled Texas.

The paintings show the deep blue water of the Gulf with ships sailing upon it, the pink and purple cliffs of the Big Bend, and the ocean-like fields of bluebon“Deep in the nets in the Texas Hill Country.

Art of Texas” will be on display through January 4, 2015.

In Cotton Pickers by Dawson Dawson-Watson, free-born farmers pick cotton in a white sun-drenched field. In Harvest Time

by S. Seymour Thomas, a woman kneels alone beside an oxcart to pick vegetables.

The artists witnessed these scenes first-hand and captured them in paint.

Thoedore Gentilz painted Corrida de la Sandia in 1848 as a spectator of the game. The “race of the watermelon” was a dangerous and competitive contest that Mexican vaqueros played on horseback using a watermelon for a ball. Gentilz captured this scene while shouting vaqueros and sweating horses kicked dust into the air around his canvas.

Robert Onderdonk, his son, Julian, and Porfiro Salinas became well-known in the late 1800s for their depictions of bluebonnets. According to Deborah Fullerton, Curator of the Art Museum of South Texas, the elder Onderdonk’s paintings were in such demand that he hired the young artist Porfirio Salinas to paint bluebonnets onto backgrounds he had already finished. This group of artists became commercially successful and with Gentilz helped establish the San Antonio art movement that still thrives today.

Renowned artist Frank Reaugh, the “dean of Texas painters,” captured the stark colors and vast spaces of the Davis Mountains of West Texas. Reaugh mixed sand with his paint so the grit that blew out of the mountains and choked him as he painted would forever be a part of his pictures of the high desert. Reaugh founded the Dallas school of painters that has produced so many internationally acclaimed artists.

The paintings of the exhibit capture the faces of Texas cowboys, black, white, and Hispanic, before they became legends, when “cow boy” was a term of derision.

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Reid Kendrick Crowell’s Portrait of a Black Cowboy challenges the cowboy stereotype, while Tom Lea’s Trail Driver lays out the iconic elements of the era. Cattle Resting in an Oak Grove by Thomas Allen shows cows sleeping in a forest.

It is not the high drama of a cattle drive, but a true depiction

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of a Texas cow hand.

“What makes this collection so vitally important to us all is that the unique characteristics of living here are so abundant in the dialogue between the art on view,” says Deborah Fullerton, Curator of Exhibitions.

Giving Back

Words: Sam Ferris Photos: Rachel Durrent WORDS: KATERI REYES PHOTOS: BELLEZZA PHOTOGRAPHY 32 the bend magazine

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Stefany & Terry Schade

Casa de Ángels Thanks to a local jeweler, each year around Christmas time, a little angel gets its wings.

Words: Sam Ferris Photos: Rachel Durrent

Gene Schade places a small collection of sterling silver charms on the table at Casa de Oro Jewelers, one for each year since 2005. The charms, mostly renderings of angels and other Christmas-themed imagery, depict artwork by young patients at Driscoll Children’s Hospital.

“Our feelings about Driscoll go way back,” says Schade. His wife, Dee, worked at the Corpus Christi Bank and Trust for 18 years, a bank founded

by Clara Driscoll, and some of her colleagues were involved with the Driscoll Foundation.

The Auxiliary to Driscoll Children’s Hospital sponsors “Project Artwork” annually, a program that gives patients and their siblings the opportunity to submit personal drawings to be considered for holiday artwork.

In 2005, they asked Dee and Gene if Casa de Oro, the jewelry business they started 35 years ago, could create a charm for Project Artwork based on a drawing by one of the patients.

They said yes.

“Being able to do something to help Driscoll, which helps kids, is the rewarding part – giving something to the community,” says Schade.

After Driscoll Children’s Hospital selects the final artwork each year, they send it over to Casa de Oro, where Gene and his son, Terry, convert the artwork into a piece of jewelry – a process that isn’t always easy.

“Needless to say, when you’re taking a picture drawn by a very, very young artist, you have to take a certain amount of liberty,” Schade says.

Gene designed the first few charms by hand, but technology has eased the transformation process in recent years.

“We now have a CAD/CAM system, so [Terry] scans the image into the

computer and uses the computer to work with and generate something that we feel will work as a charm,” says Schade.

After receiving the artwork selected for this year’s design, Schade made a special discovery.

“We discovered that the parents of the two-year-old were good friends of Terry and my daughter-in-law, Stefany,” Schade says. Gene and his wife had met the two-year-old at a birthday party their grandson attended. For Gene, the connection was now personal.

The 2014 four-gram charm was a bit more abstract than years past. Typically, a traditional angel was drawn by hand. This year, the artwork Gene received was the actual handprints and footprint of a two-year-old patient, combined to form an angel figure. Alondra Vela, daughter of Ben and Carla Vela, is this year’s artist. Alondra was diagnosed with cancer last year. The battle is not over, but her parents are happy to report that since starting chemotherapy, the cancer is now in remission. Alondra and her little sister Loriana love to model their angel necklace charms.

“We realized [the charm] had special meaning,” Shade says.

Gene says Casa de Oro started to sell the annual charm in-house this year for the first time. 100% of the proceeds are donated to the Auxiliary. Charms can also be purchased inside the Driscoll Hospital gift shop.

At Casa de Oro, the hearts are as gold as their jewelry.

Casa de Oro Jewelers 4940 Gollihar Road, Corpus Christi 78412 361.991.7054

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WHAT’S YOURS?

s

#361Reasons

PADRE ISLAND #8 Bob Hall Pier:

Due to its location, length, water depth, and variety of fish, Bob Hall Pier has had a reputation for being one of the most popular fishing piers since the 1950s. In 1961, Hurricane Carla demolished the first pier, only 600 feet long. The county rebuilt the pier, keeping the original location and name, honoring a Nueces County Commissioner. In 1962, the second pier was built twice as long. Hurricane Beulah came through just fiveyears later and destroyed half of the pier, so in 1968 a new section was added on. As history tends to repeat itself, Hurricane Allen hit in 1980 and the pier was once again completely razed. Built for the fourth time at 1,240 feet long, the current pier has stood strong, and it’s clear the community is committed to the pier’s existence.

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#1. “Cook your catch” Restaurants #2. “Island Time” has its own clock #3. .99 cent shark tooth necklaces at beachside souvenir shops #4. Amenities of a big city with small town atmosphere #5. Annual Showcase of Homes on Padre Island #6. Turtle Release Each year, eggs from sea turtle nests along the National Seashore (and some even from South Padre Island and Boca Chica Beach) are collected and taken to the incubation facility at the Padre Island National Seashore Base Camp. Dozens of hatchlings are released each year, 15-25 of which are open, and free, to the boating public. #7. Black Sheep Bistro & The Barrel

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#9. Costa Sur Bar and Grub #10. Fishing off the Jetties #11. Fresh Oysters #12. Golf Cart Lanes #13. Gulf Shrimp #14. Horace Caldwell Pier #15. Horses on the Beach Providing a guided horseback tour up and down the gulf, like something out of a romance novel (sans Fabio and his blonde mane), this tour is picture perfect. From sunrise to sunset, gait along the beach as your horse prances in the water and your experienced guide shows off some tricks. Come horse around a bit! #16. John White #17. Kayaking #18. Key Lime Trees #19. La Posada Boat

Christmas Parade

Hosted by the Padre Island Yacht Club, this annual holiday parade of boats showcases festive lights, themes, costumes, and decorations. For two evenings, approximately 50 boats travel a pre-determined route though the canals of the Laguna Madre: Friday night, the North canals, Saturday night, the South canals (the longer route).

In 1998, the Yacht Club teamed up with the United States Marine Corps and started the annual “Toys for Tots” drive. This year will mark the 40th anniversary of the parade. Talk about tradition! #20. Lifesaving Station and the Lighthouse in Port Aransas #21. Live Surf Webcam

#22. May Nardone Padre Island’s Modern Day Wonder Woman. She has multiple successful businesses (Farmer’s Insurance, Mikel May’s Beachside Bar and Grill and Coastal Carts), is an Island property mogul, and has served as the President of the Padre Island Business Association for 3 years. May is charismatic and adored, and truly lives, eats, sleeps and breathes the Island. #23. Dragonfly #24. Mikel May’s Beachfront Bar and Grill #25. Miniature Golf #26. Packery Channel #27. Paddle Boarding #28. Padre Balli Park Camping #29. Padre Island Business Association Annual Wine Tasting #30. Padre Island National Seashore

#31. Snoopy’s Pier Where the locals, visitors, and celebrities alike go to see and be seen. Fun and frill-free, the fish is always fresh and the beer is always cold. Established in 1980 as a 600-square-foot bait and burger stand, the pier has become a true landmark of Padre Island and offers spectacular views of Laguna Madre and the JFK Bridge. Don’t forget to check out Scoopy’s, the ice cream parlor next door. #32. JB’s German Bakery & Cafe #33. The Island Moon Newspaper #34. The Seawall on Padre Island

#35.Salt Grass Boutique #36. Ski Canals/Volleyball at the Ski Canals #37. Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort

From the moment news broke about Schlitterbahn opening on Padre Island, it’s been all the talk. Although the entire project will not be completed until Spring Break 2015, the resort had its soft opening June 21, 2014, offering roughly a third of the park’s attractions. Even though it’s not entirely finished, the park has been a tourism magnet. Padre Island locals seem to be divided on whether the park will be a good long-term addition to the Island.

Love it or not, trend on with your bad self, Schlitterbahn!

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John A. White Sr. John A. White Sr. and his wife Gaye (District Director for Representative Todd Hunter) have been on the Island since 1996, the same year The Island Moon newspaper was established and the Padre Island Yacht Club opened their doors. After moving to Round Rock in 1991 from California, where they had a beach house in Baja, they realized how much they really missed the water.

Since then, White has fully immersed himself into the Island and all it has to offer. He is a man of action and involvement, and it shows. “My favorite thing to do here is to volunteer my time and talents. I am or have been involved with the Padre Island Business Association (PIBA), Padre Isles Property Owner’s Association (POA), Coastal Park Board, Island Strategic Action Committee, POA Beautification Trust, American Diabetes Association, Beautify Corpus Christi, Kiwanis Club of Padre Island, Padre Island Rotary Club, Padre Island Yacht Club and Representative Hunter’s Windstorm Taskforce,” White says.

“My favorite thing to do here is to volunteer my time and talents.”

Proclaiming Padre Island as a “No Tie Zone,” and passed by the City Council in 2010, is just one of White’s claims to fame. Official “No Tie Zone” signs line the streets, the walls of local businesses, and are given as souvenirs. Be careful; your tie may be cut if you’re seen around the Island sporting one.

He loves interacting with the business owners

and watching the growth of PIBA and the Island.

White dreamed of a community garden in 2011; watching it become a reality was incredibly rewarding. From conception to carnations, White was involved throughout the entire process.

Located at Douden Park on Cobo De Bara Circle, it took only four months to get the city of Corpus Christi to approve the project and to build the first of four plots. Built from #1 pine wood from Rockport and screws (not nails), these plots are truly built to be permanent. The garden brings the community members together and offers a beautiful and (literally) fruitful place to walk, chat, and grow.

The best kept secret is the affordable, casual lifestyle on Padre Island. White loves being part of the exciting growth and prospects for the Coastal Bend.

He’s reminded of how the Island has grown so much in the time he’s lived here. The number of restaurants, hotels and retail shops have greatly increased, and the opening of Schlitterbahn and its associated development is exciting. “We have seen the population of Padre Island go from many part-timers in second homes to mostly full-time residents, many with families,” White says.

Even though he’s been retired for 25 years, White continues to see himself being involved in the bright future of Padre Island. That, and keeping busy with his most fulfilling “hobbies,” his four children, 12 grandchildren, friends, and reading.

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

Orthodontist:

4 Locations

Dr. Timothy A. Kuhlman

Oral Surgeon:

Saratoga Office:

Dr. Ronald R. Schlimmer

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

Pediatric Dentists: Dr. William B. Haley Dr. Maria B. Tiefenbach Dr. Nicole B. Pruitt Dr. Refugio Gonzalez, III Dr. William C. Berlocher Dr. Rex Wildey Dr. Jonathan Hanks

Alameda Office:

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

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paulkennedydds.com 361-992-9500 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

General Dentists: Dr. Richard J. Campbell Dr. Alissa M. Hall Dr. Annie Rothe

PORT ARANSAS #40. Annual Parade of Homes

#38.

Beach to Bay Relay

#41. Aransas Pass Shrimporee #42. Beach Sunrise

Beginning on Padre Island Beach and ending on Shoreline Dr., this is America’s largest relay race. Founded by Captain John Butterfield back in 1976, runners come from all over America, and even from around the world (Mexico, England and Kenya, to name a few). The masses flock to Corpus Christi the third Saturday of May, Armed Forces Day, to participate in the run. The course is divided into six legs, each roughly 4.4 miles. The long-standing relay tradition honors Americans serving in the U.S. military. And what’s better than beer at the finish line during the after-race party at McCaughan Park? A frosty reward for a race well run.

#39. SandFest For 18 years now, Texas SandFest has been the largest master sand sculpture competition in the United States. This springtime competition brings in over 100,000 people to observe pro sculptors from all over the world and amateurs alike compete using 250 tons of sand to create unique sand masterpieces. Prizes are awarded over the three-day long event, which is free to the public. Bring the whole family, as the venue also includes commercial vendors, crafts, children’s entertainment, food, and music.

#46. Coastal Ed’s Just in the past year and a half, golf cart businesses have tripled in Port A. Opening in 2011, right before the spike in multiple cart rentals began popping up, owners Janet and Ed are stronger than ever. Golf carts have become increasingly popular with both locals (who want to own) and visitors (who want to rent). Choose between a 4 or 6 seater, just for a few hours, or to keep! Have these “adventure machines,” as the owners refer to them, tricked out, custom made, or buy a retired fleet car. This trend is likely due to the increase in population and tourism - but hey, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.

#43. Birding on the Boardwalk #44. Building a Sandcastle #45. Bonfires on the Beach

#47. Crazy Cajun #48. Dolphin Watching #49. Driving on the Beach #50. Fisherman’s Wharf Offering boat charters ranging from deep-sea fishing trips to dolphin-watching tours to private trips, the Wharf Cat, Scat Cat and Jetty Boat each provide a venue all their own. The Wharf Cat and Scat Cat are off-shore catamaran boats for the deep-sea fishing trips. The Ferry Boat is a passenger ferry that departs Fisherman’s Wharf a dozen times a day to St. Jo Island for all types of beach bum fun. #51. Fishing Tournaments #52. Ira Loveday, legendary shark fisherman #53. Moby Dick’s #54. Mustang Island State Park #55. Palmilla Beach Resort and Golf Club #56. Parasailing #57. Playing in the Sand Dunes #58. Port Aransas Art Center

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#59. Port Aransas Birding Center

#66. San Jose Island

#60. Ferry Landing Before the toll road and eventually the ferry, drivers from Aransas Pass bought a ticket, loaded their vehicle onto a flatbed or train, and when the train wasn’t on a scheduled run, they’d use the wooden planks inside the rails to move their car. Eventually a toll road was opened in 1931, built parallel to the rail tracks. In 1947, the railroad closed, and in 1960 the state built a modern road from the mainland to Harbor Island and then to ferry landing in Port A. The very first ferry, named the “Mitzi,” carried six cars per crossing.

Today, this ferry system has expanded to six 20-car ferries and two 28-car ferries carting over one million cars each year, providing free rides 24/7 from Port A to Aransas Pass, and back again. Photo ops and dolphin sightings are also complimentary.

#67. Scott Burroughs

#61. Port A Pizzeria #62. Port Aransas Museum #63. Red Dragon Pirate Cruises Shiver me timbers, this ship looks like a 17th century pirate ship! All ages are invited to join in the pirating adventures from sword fights, sea tales, cannon firings and treasure hunts.

The new wave of interactive entertainment keeps the kiddos engaged, and a full bar does the same for the adults –just when you’ve mastered your sea legs. Ahoy, Matey! #64. Roosevelt’s

#68. Skydive South Texas #69. Shark Gift Shop #70. Souvenir Shops #71. Surfing #72. The Tarpon Inn Wall of Scales #73. The Taste of the Island Dining Event

#76. Wildflowers

#79. Winter Texans Legend has it that Pirate Jean Lafitte buried treasure in Port A hundreds of years ago, just one reason Winter Texans are captivated by the area and flock south with the birds. An abundance of RV parks and communities welcome and accommodate the “Snowbirds,” who have been coming to stay the winter months for decades. Mainly between the months of October and March, these individuals relocate to the Coastal Bend, and as winter becomes spring they typically return to their permanent residence in another state. These wintertime residents tend to be retired, adventurous people, who love the beach, birding, golf, restaurants, and of course, other friendly winter Texans. They bring an abundance of culture, diversity, and business to Port A, and heck, we love them.

#77. Windmill Fields

#80. Whooping Crane Festival

#74. The view from JFK Causeway Bridge #75. Thomas Weir “Tom” Pauken A long-standing American politician, Pauken has a rich and successful history of politics in Texas and America. Pauken served on President Ronald W. Reagan’s White House staff in the 1980s, as chairman of the Texas Republican Party from 1994 to 1997, as a chairman of the Texas Task Force on Appraisal Reform in 2006, and as a member and chairman of the Texas Workforce Commission between 2008 and 2013. But his resume doesn’t end there: he’s a businessman, lawyer, the author of two books, and currently resides in our very own Port Aransas with his wife Ida.

#78. Windsurfing

#65.Port Royal: This ocean resort and conference center is world-class, boasting more amenities than the Versace Palace. Set on 25 acres, all 210 condos overlook the gulf and some have pool views as well. Conservatively referred to as “the pool,” it’s much more than that – two water slides, Olympic-sized heated lap pool, splash pad, swim-up bar, and pool-side cabanas. It’s the largest pool complex in Texas.

38 the bend magazine

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Be Stunning!

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Call TODAY for your FREE in-home consultation! [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Police Chief Scott Burroughs Scott Burroughs and his family have been coming to Port Aransas since 1982 when he and his wife “discovered” the island on their honeymoon.

Both being beach people, they fell in love with the town. After many years of family vacations, Burroughs and wife, Shirlene, decided that Port Aransas would be the perfect spot to live. In November of 2008, Burroughs accepted the job as Chief of Police for the City of Port Aransas.

“All I heard from the locals and the other cops during my first few months was ‘are you ready for spring break?’”

Chief recalls. Coming from the Travis County department in Austin, Chief Burroughs thought he had seen and done just about it all.

“Spring break was unlike anything I had witnessed. Between the loud music blaring from vehicles and campsites; the intense traffic moving in every direction; the throngs of people; the array of colors from flags, swimsuits, and flashing lights; sounds of people yelling, laughing and honking horns; and the smells from campfires (lord knows what they were burning) sun tan lotion, sweat, perfume, stale beer, it is a sensory overload. Then the next

week Sunday night came, someone threw the switch again, and life was back to normal.” What a welcome to the community!

Three of the Chief ’s favorite things about Port A are the people, the beach and “island time.” When it comes to the people, Port A has such a diverse population of newcomers, visitors, and multigenerational locals, each with their own unique backgrounds and stories. Then there’s the beach – when visiting you feel compelled to go, but living near it allows him and his wife the flexibility to go anytime the mood hits and spend as much or as little time as they’d like. There is something special about “island time;” Chief loves that the town has a unique, relaxing, laidback, atmosphere. “I don’t know how to describe it other than to say it feels like home. I wasn’t born on the island but I was definitely born on island time,” he says.

The unique island lifestyle is what keeps the Burroughs family here and happy. In Austin, his commute was 10 to 15 hours a week sitting in traffic. Here, his commute is a whole five minutes. Between the beach, the people, the entertainment, the shops, and the activities, Port Aransas is the complete package. “I often say if you are bored in Port Aransas, it is because you want to be.”

Specializing in Direct & Consultation Music Therapy & Applied Behavioral Analysis Services

Meeting needs to strengthen and empower individuals, families and communities.

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Call: (361) 815-2433 for more information 1001 Louisiana Ave., Ste. 200 Corpus Christi, TX 78404 www.therapyconnectionsofsouthtexas.com 40 the bend magazine

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In 2005, Driscoll began taking the artwork of their patients during the holidays and choosing one of those precious little drawings to turn into a sterling silver charm.

Casa de Oro Jewelers is proud to design, manufacture and donate these angel charms. This holiday season, please consider purchasing an angel charm. All proceeds go to the Auxiliary to Driscoll Children’s Hospital to assist their efforts in treating children of the Coastal Bend.

Casa de Oro Jewelers cares.

We stand as tall as ANGELS when we kneel to help a child. www.casadeorojewelers.com | 4940 Gollihar Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 | 361.991.7054 | sales@casadeoro.net [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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CORPUS CHRISTI #81.$1.99 Margarita Monday’s at Fajitavilla #82. 131 Miles of Beach #83. 60 Mile Loop of Corpus Christi Bay #84. Ainsley’s Angels of South Texas #85. Al Kruse Tennis Center #86. American Flag on the Harbor Bridge for 4th of July #87. Andy’s Kitchen #88. Anthony’s Aveda Salon #89. Antique Stores on Alameda #90. Aria Sky Lounge #91. Art Center of Corpus Christi #92. Art Museum of South Texas

#93. Buc

Days Festival and Parade

Now approaching its 78th year, the annual festival isn’t so much about pirates as it is community. More than 100,000 gather on Leopard Street every year for the Illuminated Night Parade. Even more attend the carnival, rodeo and other merriments along the bay. And true to buccaneer spirit, Corpus Christi’s mayor walks the plank each year for the Dunking of the Mayor. We love it.

#94. Authentic New York Pizza

#101. B&J’s Pizza

#95. Ziegfest

#102. Bleu Bistro

#96. Barefoot Mardigras

#103. Blucher Park

#97. Bella Jewel Boutique

#104. Blue Angels Air Show

#98. Little Paper Crowns

#105. Bonna-Petit

#99. Big Bang Celebration

#106. Botanical Gardens

#100. Bill Vessey

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#107. Brad

Lomax

It’s all about that “water” for Brad Lomax, CEO and founder of WaterStreet Ltd. and owner of the popular Corpus Christi hangout, The Executive Surf Club. Brad loves to surf and fish. “I’m a water person,” says Brad. “I love the beach. I love the bay… I love being on Water Street. The food I serve comes from the water. It just works for me.” His downtown Corpus Christi restaurants, Water Street Oyster Bar and Water Street Seafood Company, are favorites to tourists and locals alike. His love for surfing generated the Texas Surf Museum, which sits next door to the Surf Club patio and Coffee Waves (previously Agua Java). The tropical oasis atmosphere in this downtown area for fun, music and good food reflects Brad’s love of the coast.

As a kid from San Antonio, Brad often visited family here and always wanted to live in Corpus Christi.

He often takes opportunities to enjoy what he loves about the Coastal Bend. One of his favorite things to do is to jump on the jetty boat to St. Joe’s Island at 6:30 a.m. for a miniature surf trip. “You go across the channel and view the sunrise over the North Jetty…to be able to do that any day I want, it’s like living in a vacation.”

Brad has actively promoted the Coastal Bend as Chairman of the Corpus Christi Convention and Visitors Bureau and Board member of the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce. “The people of this community have enabled me to raise a family and run a successful business,” says Brad. “I moved here from San Antonio because I wanted to be here…this has been an unbelievable community to me.”

#108. The best breakfast tacos in Texas

#114. Cheap Gas Prices

The same chorale voices once resounding in Rome’s St. Peter’s Basilica can be heard each Sunday morning at the Corpus Christi Cathedral. The Cathedral’s adult and children’s choirs, under the direction of Diocesan Music Director Lee Gwozdz, have sung on several occasions for the Pope. Chosen as the lead choir from the U.S., the Cathedral Choirs will sing for Pope Francis’ 2016 New Year’s Day Mass in Rome. Joining the Corpus Christi Symphony and visiting artists, the Cathedral Choirs entertain Coastal Bend residents and visitors with free concerts throughout the year.

The Cathedral Concert Series, now in its 31st season, will include ‘Christmas with the Von Trapps’, December 2nd (sponsored by Omni Hotels) at the Corpus Christi Cathedral, 505 N. Upper Broadway.

#115. Christmas Lights on Ocean Drive

#123. Corpus Christi Country Club

#116. Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program

#124. Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce

#117. Coffee Waves

#125. Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

#109. Breeze at Hester’s #110. Bridgewalk #111. Butterfly Migration #112. CCMORF Sailboat Racing #113. CC7D Film Festival7 Day Film Project

The Corpus Christi Film Alliance spotlights local talent each year during this annual film contest. Vets and newcomers alike dabble in filmmaking for seven days before showing the final product to a jury. The results? Creative indie flicks and true-blue Coastal Bend culture.

#118. Cole Park #119. Concrete Street Amphitheater #120. Conquer the Coast #121. Corpus Christi 1st #122.

Corpus Christi Cathedral Choir

#126. Corpus Christi Downtown ArtWalk #127. Corpus Christi Fury Football Team #128. Corpus Christi IceRays #129. Corpus Christi Library

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#130. Corpus Christi Science and History Museum #131. Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra #132. Corpus Christi Yacht Club #133. Corpus Threads #134. Cotton Farmers #135. Crabbing in the Bay #136. Czech Fest #137. Dallas Cowboy’s QB Dustin Vaughan #138. Del Mar College #139. Dia De Los Muertos Festival #140. Dive In Movies at Hurricane Alley #141. Diverse Population #142. Doc McGregor Gala #143. Donegal Street #144. Eva Longoria #145. Executive Surf Club #146. Farah Fawcett #147. Feeding the Seagulls #148. Flint Hills #149. Murphy Givens, Author

#166. Hawk Watch

#185. K-Space

#167. HEB

#186. Lake Corpus Christi State Park

#168. Heritage Park #169. Hester’s

#150. Founder’s Walk

#170. Cruising down Ocean Drive

#151. Terry Sweeny at DTMD

#171. Hometown Heroes

#152. Friday Night Football

#172. Hooks Baseball

#153. Frisbee Golf at Lamar Park

#173. House of Rock

#154. Galvan House

#174. Hurricane Alley Waterpark

#155. Gates Donuts #156. Gaslight Square #157. Ghost Tours at Ritz #158. Ghost Tours on Lexington #159. Giant Ice Cream Cone in Lamar Park #160. Goosefeathers & Mosiacs #161. Greek Festival

#175. Jalisco’s #176. Jazz Festival #177. Panjo’s Pizza #178. Jewish Food Festival #179. Judy Hawley #180. Junior League’s Annual Fairy Tale Ball

#187. Lamar Park Lighting of the Park #188. Lamar Park Shopping #189. Laredo Taco Company #190. Las Donas De La Court #191. Lazy Bech Beer #192. Long Boarding Down Shoreline Blvd #193. Low Unemployment #194. Making Strides of Corpus Christi #195. Mariachi Music Fest #196. Max Pro Water Sports #197. Authentic Tex-Mex #198. Mole’

#162. Halo Flight

#181. Justin Brantley Super Bowl Champion

#199. Moon Over the Bay

#163. Harbor Bridge Lights

#182. Karaoke at Cheers

#164. Harbor Playhouse

#201. Movies in the Park

#183. King Ranch

#165. Havana Club

#202. CC Naval Base

#184. Kolache Cafe

#203. Nelda Martinez

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#200. Moore Plaza

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#204. Ninja Noodle Bowl at Sushi Bar #205. No Lines at the Corpus Christi International Airport #206. Northbeach #207. Oh Goodie Designs #208. Omni

Bay front Hotel A Room with a View

What do cast members from the movie Pearl Harbor, a former U.S. President, a writer for The Bend, and Astros baseball players have in common? They all checked into the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, 900 Shoreline Blvd. This premier hotel is the only Four- Diamond hotel in South Texas. It has a reputation for its affably hospitable staff and rooms with a view. The award-winning rooftop restaurant, the Republic of Texas, boasts one of the top wine lists in the

CORPUS CHRISTI ICERAYS 361-814-PUCK

1901 N. SHORELINE BLVD. SUITE #300 CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401

WWW.GOICERAYS.COM [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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world and was voted one of the top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants in America. Many Coastal Bend residents enjoy a staycation at the Omni. #209. Open Mic Night at House of Rock #210. Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and Learning Center #211. Our Lady Star of the Sea on North Beach #212. Outdoor Fitness #213. Paddle Boarding #214. Paddle for Parkinson’s #215. Palm Trees #216. Paulette Kluge #217. Petting the Stingrays at TSA #218. Pint Night at Executive Surf Club

#237. Snoball

#253. Texas Surf Museum

#238. Solomon P. Ortiz

#254. Texas Throwdown Thursdays at Brewster Street

#239. South Side Farmers Market

#255. Tex-Mex

#240. South Texas Music Walk of Fame

#256. The Bend Magazine (Come on, we can brag a little)

#241. St. Patricks Day Block Party

#257. The Board Shop

#242. Stephanie Griest, Author

#258. The Durrill Family

#277. Water Gardens #278. Waterstreet Market #279. Waterstreet Summer Fest #280. La Fruitera #281. Whataburger First things first: you’re welcome. Corpus Christi cooked up the first-ever Whataburger on Ayers Street in 1950, and we’re pretty sure the rest of Texas isn’t complaining. Locals love the 24hour service as much as they do the hearty breakfast menu and one-of-a-kind burger specials. It helps when there’s one at every corner, too.

#243. Stripes

#259. The GROW Local South Texas Farmers Market

#244. STXBMX

#260. The Mild Winters

#245. Sunrise over the Bay

#261. The Nutcracker

#246. Sunset views from Harbor Bridge

#262. The Ranch at San Patricio

#224. Republic of Texas Bar & Grill

#247. Surf Camps

#263. The Ritz Theater

#282. Whataburger Field

#248. Sushi Bar

#264. The Seawall

#283. What’s Up CC App

#225. Reserve at Dancing Elk Hunting

#249. Suter Wildlife Refuge

#265. The Shops at La Palmera

#250. Tango Tea Room

#266. The Smell of Fresh Mesquite BBQ

#284. Wind & Wave Water Sports

#219. Port of Corpus Christi #220. Prices Chef #221. Produce #222. Ranch at San Patricio #223. Raspas on Shoreline

#226. Ride-In Theatre #227. Rock Paper Scissor Tournament #228. Roger Creagar’s Hometown #229. Roller Derby #230. Ronald Mc Donald House of Corpus Christi #231. Sand Volleyball #232. Scenes from Pearl Harbor filmed on the Lexington #233. CCISD #234. Scuba Diving #235. Selena MemorialMirador de la Flor

#251. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi- Island University #252. Texas State Aquariam You’ll soon be able to experience the wonders and wildlife of the Caribbean here in Corpus Christi. The Texas State Aquarium is planning a huge expansion with a new addition, ‘The Caribbean Journey’.

With more sharks, interactive exhibits, fish, birds and reptiles, be ready to traverse from forest to sea. Prepare to be surprised by tremors beneath your feet or mist near your face at the first 4D theatre in South Texas.

#267. The Susser Family #268. The Town Club #269. Todd Hunter #270. Travel Time is 15 Minutes #271. Trey McCambell #272. Triumph Over Kid Cancer #273. Ullberg Sculptors #274. Variety of Shrimp #275. Watching the Shrimp Boats at the Marina #276. Sparkling Water

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#285. Wind Surfing #286. YWCA Yuletide Festival

Returning to the Coastal Bend after graduating from Texas A&M College Station was an easy decision for Bill Durrill. He knew he wanted to work with his father, Dusty Durrill, in his Budweiser Distributing Company. “Dad had different plans for me. He put me into our property management office,” Bill explains. The younger Durrill is the General Manager of Durrill Properties, owners of Brewster Street Ice House, Concrete Street Amphitheatre, and Bleu Frog Mercantile. The Durrill family has generously contributed time and money for beautification projects in Corpus Christi. The most noticeable are the seawall miradors, benches and the Selena Pavilion, the large ‘Momentum’ sculpture and palapas (gazebos) at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, and the 40-foot lighthouse at Del Mar College. The Durrills were also instrumental in the expansion of the Art Center and recent renovations at the Museum of Science and History.

Growing up, he and his family spent many weekends with neighbors at Lake Mathis, where

John Valls John Valls wears so many hats around Corpus Christi that it would be easier to describe who he isn’t than who he is. As the Chairmen of the Board for the Corpus Christi Hispanic Chamber of Commerce amd Chair Emeritus for the Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority, just to name a few of the hats he wears, John Valls stays very active in the community. “Corpus Christi is a small enough community where anyone can have an impact. If you live in Houston or Dallas – those cities are huge. There is more of a sense of community here… It’s a

his father taught everyone to water ski. “It was as if our whole neighborhood moved to the lake for the weekends,” Bill says.

“I’ve enjoyed raising my own family here because of how well I know the community,” he explains. He enjoys golfing, fishing, hunting and spending time with his family at their Port Royal Beach Condo. His loves wearing shorts almost year round. He enjoys dining with his wife at the Yardarm or Mamma Mia’s, two of their favorite local restaurants. As a father, Bill has gained an appreciation of the Coastal Bend’s close proximity for hunting and fishing to be enjoyed with his children.

During the week he can spend a half day fishing with his kids and be back in his office by noon.

“Corpus Christi is small enough that you can be within a couple of contacts to the leaders in the community to have your voice heard,” he says. Bill expresses gratitude for being involved at a young age in community transformative discussions. “I like shaping the assets of our community. I got that from my father,” he says with a smile.

The finesT Gulf CoasT seafood delivered naTionwide — sTraiGhT To Their door!

www.ShrimpTX.com 866.905.9056 Place your order online and use coupon code THEBEND to receive 10% off your order.

In the comments section let us know what day you would like your gift to be delivered.

Protect your world Auto • Home • Life • Retirement

little more manageable,” explains Valls.

While in college and later when living in Austin, Valls found himself constantly coming back home to Corpus Christi on the weekends. “Corpus Christi gives you a sense of place. It’s so manageable,” says Valls. “Having the arrangement we have in Corpus Christi, you are able to get a lot more involved in making your community a better place.” He loves living close to family and dining at great local restaurants like Nolan’s and Sushi Bar near his home in Kings Crossing.

Call me today to discuss your options.

Some people think Allstate only protects your car. Truth is, Allstate can also protect your home or apartment, your boat, motorcycle even your retirement and your life. And the more of your world you put in Good Hands®, the more you can save.

DWAYNE HARGIS 361-855-3883

5794 Weber Road Corpus Christi dwaynehargis@allstate.com

Insurance subject to terms, qualifications and availability. Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co., Allstate Insurance Co., Allstate Texas Lloyd’s, Allstate Indemnity Co., Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co. Life insurance and annuities issued by Lincoln Benefit Life Company, Lincoln, NE, Allstate Life Insurance Company, Northbrook, IL. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York, Hauppauge, NY. Northbrook, IL. © 2010 Allstate Insurance Co.

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Bill Durrill

This holiday season send your loved ones a taste of the Coastal Bend.

ROCKPORT #287. Alice Fayes #288. Aquafest #289. Aransas National Wildlife Refuge #290. Aransas Pathways Aransas Pathways is a network of jogging and biking trails, nature walks, kayak inlets, and historic sites throughout Aransas County. The Aransas Pathways Project was founded in 2011 to highlight the natural beauty and scenic amenities of the area. Families and outdoorsmen can explore these trails, picnic, and learn about the rich history of Rockport. Birding enthusiasts can choose from 20 viewing areas where whooping cranes, great blue herons, hummingbirds, waterfowl, and loons congregate. Visit aransaspathways. com to learn more. #291. Bay Window #292. Barbara Gurtner #293. Bellino’s

Maritime Museum. More than 100 varieties of wine are featured from around the world--Italy, Greece, Argentina, Chile, France, New Zealand, and the U.S. Guests can sample wine by the glass, or buy it by the case, and pair their wine with food offerings from local Rockport chefs. There are cooking demonstrations, vendor booths, artists, and local merchants on site, with live music playing on stage throughout the event. More than 2,500 people attend this festival each year. #301. General Zachary Taylor #302. Gigging flounder in the Flats #303. Go Fishing from Kayaks in the Bays of Rockport with Slowride Guide Services #304. Go Fishing Off Copano Causeway Pier, one of the longest piers in the world, measuring over 8 miles. #305. Mom’s Bait Shop

#296. Cove Harbor Marina

306. Memorial Park jogging trail, multiple playgrounds, basketball court, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, picnic area under the live oak trees and dog park.

#297. Diane Probst

#307. Oysterfest

#298. Estelle Stair Gallery

#308. Jesus Morales

#299. Fishing or Duck Hunting with one of 200 local guide services

#309. Rent a Jet Ski at Little Bay

#294. Charlotte Plumbers #295. Chartroom

#300. Food and Wine Classic This two-day celebration of fine wine is held every Memorial Day weekend on the grounds of the Texas 48 the bend magazine

#310. Rockport Art Festival

#311. Rockport Center for the Arts Formed by resident artists over a century ago, the Rockport Center for the Arts is a sanctuary for artists of local and international acclaim.

Host to many of Rockport’s premier events, the Center for the Arts is located in an historic building constructed in 1890. A 10,000 square -foot sculpture garden surrounds the site featuring works from renowned sculptors Jesus Moroles, Kent Ullberg, and Charles Umlauf.

Patrons enjoy a visual feast of prints, pottery, and kiln demonstrations, as well as featured art from area schools. Admission is free. Inquire about seasonal art classes for artists of all ages. #312. Rockport Center for the Arts’ Tour of Homes #313. Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce #314. Rockport Community Pool and Skate Park #315. Rockport Market Days #316. Seafair #317. Shops on Austin Street in the Rockport Heritage District #318. Simon Michael #319. Sip cocktails on the deck of The Chartroom #320. Spend a weekend at The Crane House #321. Stevie-Lew’s BBQ

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#322. Sunday brunch at GLOW #323. Take a Boat Cruise Sail with dolphins, enjoy a whooping crane serenade, or reel in a prize-winning redfish with one of several boat tours offered out of Rockport’s picturesque marinas.

Charter a party boat with your friends at whoopingcranetours. com for a relaxing day on the water.

Captain Brent Hopkins leads guided fishing and duck hunting trips at aceinthehole.com. Rather sail solo?

Ride the waves on a kayak for an eco-tour of the bay with certified kayak instructor and wildlife guide Ryan Ford of Slowride Guide Services. #324. The Famous Big Blue Crab #325. Texas Hummerbird Celebration #326. The Aquarium at Rockport Harbor and Education Center #327. The Art Gallery and Dinner at Latitude #328. The Big Tree The Big Tree is the second-largest live oak tree in the United States. It is more than 1,000 years old, 44 feet tall, and the trunk measures over 35 feet in circumference. The Big Tree has survived hundreds of hurri-

canes; it even survived the Union naval bombardment during the Civil War that leveled the nearby town of Lamar. Visit this amazing tree at Goose Island State Park by taking a short ten mile drive north of Rockport.

Apex Pools & Spas

Corpus Christi, TX Since 1978

5015 Calvin Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 361.994.1418

www.apexpools.webs.com

where

meets MOVE-IN READY HOMES & WATERVIEW LOTS AVAILABLE NOW!

TerraMar find yours. hoganhomestexas.com

Visit us off Rodd Field & Wooldridge Roads Contact: Angela Nelson 361-443-0440 anelson@hoganhomestexas.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

at OSO BAY

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DINE Downtown!

Š

Corpus Christi Jan. 19 - Feb. 1, 2015

Downtown restaurants, some of Corpus Christi’s best, are offering unique, three course, value-priced menu.

No tickets or coupons necessary, simply visit the restaurant you want to go to and ask for the Dine Downtown menu!

To find participating restaurants and their menus, visit www.cctexasdmd.com beginning January 1, 2015.

DINE Downtown! is a CCDMD Merchants Association Event

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#329. The Boiling Pot

Portland

#330. The Fulton Mansion #331. The Rockport Film Festival #332. The Texas Maritime Museum #333. The Wonderful Women’s Network #334. Visit One of Over 30 churches in Rockport #335. Walk along the Rockport Beach #336. Walk/jog/bike/drive down Fulton Beach Road #337. Wind Way Gallery #338. Windsurfing and Kite Flying on Rockport Beach of the Wonderful Women’s Network. She started the WWN when she realized that women needed a way to connect and express themselves. “It began as an email to a small group of friends and when we got together, we didn’t talk men, we didn’t talk kids--we talked dreams, what we wanted to do, and our future.”

Barbara Gurtner There are many reasons to love Rockport. Just ask Barbara Gurtner.

“Some people say there’s a vortex here that draws talented people to this area,” says Barbara.

“People are free to be creative here: acting, painting, writing, unleashing their creativity. All of a sudden, they have permission to express themselves.”

Barbara grew up on a working farm in rural Illinois. She went to college at Southern Illinois University, on to grad school, and then lived and traveled all over the world, but Barbara fell in love with Rockport and settled down here in 1995.

She volunteers for the Rockport Center for the Arts, The Texas Maritime Museum, Aransas County Education Foundation, Friends of the Pool, Rockport Yacht Club, The Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce, The Little Bay Sea Queens, and she sits on the boards of Rockport Little Theatre and Unity Church.

Barbara helped expand this network when she became founder

Barbara was recently elected to the Rockport City Council and has big aspirations for Rockport, including a new performing arts theater that will double as art gallery and conference center.

The performing arts center will showcase children’s theater, dance, and music.

There is a large population of winter Texans in Rockport.

“Winter Texans work in our city, clean up the beaches, volunteer, and are huge contributors to our community,” she says. There is also a huge population of “Summer Texans.” Summer Texans are families who vacation every summer in Rockport. Many of them have been coming back since they were kids. Summer Texans often relocate or retire to Rockport.

#339. Books Ink. #340. GPISD #341. The friendly Portland neighbor who waves as he rides his bike everyday. #342. Sunset Lake #343. Northshore Country Club #344. The view from the 18th hole on the NCC golf course. #345. Portland Community Center pool #346. Free Popcorn Night at Northshore Cinema 8 #347. Portland Public Library #348. The Rapid Growth #349. Chatwork Club’s Christmas Home Tour

#352. Parks in Every Neighborhood #353. Go East for the bay, head West for miles of farmland #354. Kathleen Dossett Dance Studio #355. Little traffic #356. The Sand Dunes #357. La Iguana Restaurant #358. Taqueria El Tapatio breakfast tacos #359. Windsurfing at Violet Andrews #360. The view of the fireworks on the water for 4th of July without traffic #361. Portland Chamber of Commerce

#350. Butterfly Lake #351. Portland Police Force

Barbara believes that entertainment in the big cities is about the big things, like amusement parks. “But here,” she says, “it’s about all the small things, like pulling off to the side of the road for the view, or bird watching, or driving down Fulton Beach Road at night and looking up at the moon.” Barbara’s favorite activity is sitting in her backyard. She doesn’t get much time to rest, but when she does, it is with the people she loves in a place that she loves. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Photos: Pamela Fulcher

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Corpus Christi Lifestyles

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Sensational Second Homes Around the Coastal Bend!

52 the bend magazine Coastal Bend Living (Special Promotion)[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

Rockport

Key Allegro Real Estate Come for a weekend, stay for a lifetime.

Sandy Swanson, Jackie Shaw, Rebecca Bagby, Mindy Durham, Robin Martin, Dee Becker, Shirley Kirmse, Kay Luft, John Kidwell, Susie Lee-Sawyer, Donna Jansma, Mimi Robison (Rose), Carla Krueger Rinche.

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here had once been orchards, even a winery on the island, but in 1962, when legendary developer Carl Krueger purchased Frandolig Island it was bare, except for promise and potential.

Krueger chose the name Key Allegro, meaning “happy island,” envisioning a place where people could literally own a piece of an island paradise “for a weekend or a lifetime.” He would play a pivotal role in turning the island into the city’s luxury real estate showplace.

casual and friendly environment. They don’t see themselves as a group of independent agents, they see themselves as a family; a family that loves where they live and work.

Everyone stays active in the community, hoping to make it a better place for all. Agents work well together and they play well together. They not only help clients find the perfect getaway, but can also help new residents get connected to Rockport’s vibrant and varied social scene.

In 2005, current owners Brett Bohn and Joe Bruce Hancock purchased Key Allegro Real Estate and the Key Allegro Yacht Club from Carl Krueger. Brett has family ties to Rockport that date back to the 1860’s and his parents were members of the original Yacht Club.

Brett feels extremely privileged to carry on the Key Allegro legacy. His family always had a home in Rockport where he loved spending his summers at Key Allegro crabbing, fishing, and boating. Bohn’s family has welcomed new residents to the City of Rockport for over 150 years. It’s a tradition he actively carries on. Bohn enjoys staying active in the community and just finished a term as Chairman for the Rockport Chamber of Commerce.

The Key Allegro lifestyle is so intriguing, that most of the time it only takes a weekend in Rockport for someone to be sold. It’s not about selling someone a home – it’s about welcoming new residents into a new way of life. At Key Allegro Real Estate, it’s more about building friendships that last a lifetime, rather than conducting short term transactions. “Our knowledge of the community is second to none,” says Bohn. “There are several people in our company who have been involved in the community for generations.

We live the lifestyle that we sell.” They hope everyone feels connected and loves their experience. Guests love to dine at the Yacht Club next door, where bonds are created over great food and drinks.

Key Allegro Real Estate is known for its

Not only is Key Allegro Real Estate the lead-

ing Realtor in Aransas County it houses the largest rental company in Aransas County.

They offer everything from condominiums to multi-million dollar waterfront homes and have hundreds of rental properties in their portfolio. “For many visitors, Key Allegro is often their first experience of the coastal life style. They literally come for the weekend to Key Allegro and Rockport, and often stay for a lifetime. One of the reasons we are the largest in the county is the Key Allegro experience,” says Bohn.

Currently the team is made up of 22 agents; 14 of them are full time agents, five of which are associate Brokers and five referring agents. More than half of these agents have over twenty years of experience. They continue to lead their market as the top-producing agency in Aransas County.

The dream of a “happy island” lives on to this day, thanks to the legacy of Key Allegro Real Estate and the Key Allegro Yacht Club. Key Allegro represents the epitome of the Rockport lifestyle – a place to unwind, relax and escape from the pressures of everyday life. It remains a friendly and welcoming community where families continue to retreat year after year, generation after generation, to their special corner of paradise.

1798 Bayshore Dr. | Rockport, TX 78382 | (361)729-3691 | www.KeyAllegro.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Photos: Pamela Fulcher

Copano Bay Where the setting sun heralds magnificent bursts of color followed by star-filled skies. It’s where Ospreys announce their presence in strangely melodic chirps and where a family compound offers everyone plenty of room. The main house – with its adjoining guest rooms was built in 2009.

It’s everything you ever wanted --a one bedroom main house (2800+sf) with open living/dining/kitchen overlooking a board veranda and out to Copano Bay. The two-story attached guest rooms (1100+sf)—has 3 self-contained bedrooms with French doors opening onto the balcony/ veranda. This carefree home has its own harbor area bracketed by dual piers and dual stone breakwaters. The harbor itself has a two-door boat house (with lifts) and boat launch. The 4+ acre grounds are easy care and sport garages for all your toys, a bubbling spa off the veranda and overlooking the bay, a flounder shaped pool, a 4/4 guest house (2 living, 1 dining, eat in kitchen), covered dance floor and staff quarters.

Rebecca Bagby // Cell: 361.463.9026

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54 the bend magazine Coastal Bend Living (Special Promotion)[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

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Fulton Beach Fulton Beach Rd Bay front Estate offering luxury, coastal charm & classic coastal Rockport living.

This incredible property offers sweeping views of Aransas Bay blanketed in oak trees on 1.69 acres. An elegant coastal retreat comprised of 3 separate homes and multiple garage/storage buildings. Every home is a delight each unique & charming with its own style. The main residence is the centerpiece of the estate offering breathtaking bay views & Louisiana architectural style built originally in 1867 in downtown Rockport and moved to its present location. The entire property is immaculately & lovingly maintained with landscaped and manicured grounds. Property comes with Bay front land and offers a 400+ ft pier on Aransas Bay. Mimi Robison (Rose) // Cell: 361.463.6673

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Padre Island

COASTLINE PROPERTIES Others Sell Homes…We Sell Lifestyles!

P

adre Island is not just a place; it is a state of mind. Just over the JFK Bridge, the rhythm of life slows to a more relaxed tempo, where Jimmy Buffet songs proverbially play. Many people dream of moving or buying a second home, one where they can escape the traffic, bad weather, and stress of current everyday lives. The Gulf Coast offers this lifestyle – smaller communities, often free from the hassles of much maintenance, where the beach, boating and fishing are daily activities. It’s 5 o’clock somewhere, and that somewhere is Padre Island. Sometimes called the forgotten coast, our little goldmine is being discovered – and more importantly, it is still affordable!

From left to right: Mary Scruton, Tara Gallaspy, Robbie O’Quinn, Whitney Noble (Center), Victoria Munt Rogers, Cheri Sperling, Betheny Bell

These are Your Most Experienced & Professional Agents who KNOW Upper Padre Since 1995 our Sales team has been committed to providing top-notch assistance to Buyers & Sellers. Our team is experienced & knowledgeable and dedicated to assisting from start to finish with every real estate need. We believe that selling property is more than “saying whatever it takes” to make a sale. Whether you’re buying or selling, everyone at COASTLINE PROPERTIES is the right choice to insure a smooth experience – start to finish! Showing results since 1995 - We live & work where others vacation!

14717 South Padre Island Dr. | Corpus Christi, TX 78418 | (361)949-0101 | www.Coastline-Properties.com

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56 the bend magazine Coastal Bend Living (Special Promotion)[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

15377 Beaufort Court, $765,000 4 bed, 2886 sq. ft.

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t 15377 Beaufort Court, the summer never ends. Located at the fingertip, prime waterfront views and unrivaled privacy hug this estate. Step through the gated courtyard to your own private heated pool and spa. Inside, twenty-foot ceilings and a balcony from almost every room on every floor adds to the grandeur of this already magnificent coral palace.

Vampires be warned – natural sunlight comes free and generously from the abundance of windows and doors. You feel as if you’re in a different world here.

One in which the year round breezes caress you to sleep and take you to Never Never Land.

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We all dream of far away. Possibly even of elegance and sophistication. Living on Padre Island provides this laid-back luxury, and in some way, keeps us forever young.

Perhaps it’s the excitement of discoveries; beach combing for the lost treasures from rumored shipwrecks along our coast. Or for the foodies, it may be the celebrated local seafood. Maybe it’s the boater’s paradise; the therapeutic rhythm of casting your fishing line, hooking “that big one,” and soaking up natural vitamin D. Whatever the cause, islanders are young, if not only at heart. It’s beach therapy. So come and stay salty. It’s been said saltwater heals everything.

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15909 Punta Espada Loop, $759,900, 3 bed, 3306 sq. ft.

W

hen Kenny Chesney wrote “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems” he surely must have used 15909 Punta Espada Loop as his muse. Ain’t no better time than now...where people live to play. This adult playground is ideal for entertaining, everyday enjoyment, and indoor/outdoor living nearly year round.

Entertain in grand style from one of two living areas, where walls of windows showcase the sparkling infinity pool and extensive canal water views which can be enjoyed from almost every room in the house.

Tropical landscaping and bright colors surround the pool on 117 feet of water frontage. Exquisite

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architectural detail and fine finishes define this custom estate.

Great thought and care were taken to create a home of this uncommon grace and refinement. Privacy awaits through the gated front entry into a lush landscaped courtyard. Want to entertain OFF land? Take one of your two boats (yes, the home is equipped with two lifts) out for a sunset cruise.

Sip afternoon iced tea with fellow islanders at the Country club, set up a tee time for your favorite crew at the club course, then unwind at the beach from the comforts of your golf cart or take a stroll along the shore. Barefoot, of course, as sand pedicures are free.

58 the bend magazine Coastal Bend Living (Special Promotion)[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

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Terra Mar: Preserving A Lifestyle For those looking to live life to the fullest, Terra Mar, on the western shore of Oso Bay, offers residents a scenic getaway that’s not far from the everyday.

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here are few Coastal Bend communities where your neighbors fly over to welcome you to the neighborhood. That’s just the case with Terra Mar, Hogan Home’s master planned community, where you might catch a Great Blue Heron gliding across the Oso Bay. Terra Mar is the only neighborhood backing up to the new Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve & Nature Center, a 160-acre nature preserve/park, slated to be fully open in spring 2015. Families in the community not only enjoy the scenery, but also the opportunity to get outdoors and walk, jog or ride along the beautiful trails. The preserve features:

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60 the bend magazine Coastal Bend Living (Special Promotion)[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

Take a stroll down the boardwalk to stunning views of the Oso Bar from the overlooking pavilion.

Enjoy water front views from your window

3+ miles of hiking / biking trails • Hawk tower overlooking the wetlands and bay • Learning center with extensive educational programming • Weekly nature-oriented programming (nature talks, guided hikes, etc.)

• Nature and outdoors oriented summer camps • Plenty of opportunities for kids and adults to explore the outdoors

Terra Mar is located off of Rodd Field Road, bordering the Western shoreline of Oso Bay. Rodd Field Road is ideally situated for getting to downtown Corpus Christi or Padre Island, offering easy access to S.P.I.D., Ennis Joslin, Crosstown and IH-37. Also, new Dorothy Adkins Middle School – located near Wooldridge and Ennis Joslin is on the back end of construction and is projected to open in August 2015 for the start of the next school year.

Showcasing numerous styles, available and move-in ready homes are priced from $200,000 and remaining Oso Bay waterview lots start from $125,000

For other available homes in Terra Mar, please visit hoganhomestexas.com

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Bart Braselton Bio 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 many local, state, and national awards including the Energy Star Leadership in Housing Award, and the Environments for Living Diamond Award for Energy Efficiency, 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.

Additionally, Braselton Homes was named

by Professional Builder, to their prestigious list as one of the 50 Fastest Growing Homebuilders in the United States.

Bart, a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi Class 18, has served on numerous local community and business boards, including the Coastal Bend GreenBuilt Initiative, the Community Development Corporation, the American Heart Association, Bay Area Smart Growth, the Citizens in Support of the Corpus Christi Police Department, the Corpus Christi Country Club, and the Food Bank. And, in 2013, Bart was appointed to the Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation’s Board of Directors, by the Corpus Christi City Council.

Braselton and his wife, Michelle, have 5 children, and are active church members at Corpus Christi’s Bay Area Fellowship.

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Braselton Homes Exclusive Builder of the Eco-Home & the SmartHome.

B

raselton Homes is Corpus Christi’s Oldest New HomeBuilder as well as the Number One Neighborhood Developer and HomeBuilder south of San Antonio. We have been blessed to

work for thousands of families in the Coastal Bend…and would love the chance to get to build for you.

So, why would you want to buy a Braselton Home? Here are a few of the reasons why we think you should consider Braselton:

• This is our hometown. We’ve been building in Corpus Christi for 3 generations. We’ve lived and worked alongside our friends and neighbors in the Coastal Bend for over 70 years ; we’re invested in the health and well-being of our community.

It’s important to us that we grow the Coastal Bend in a sensitive, thoughtful way that will ensure that the growth is sustainable and that our area will continue to be a beautiful place to live.

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• Our Eco-Home design, and our SmartHome technology set us apart.

We are the exclusive builder of not only the SmartHome…. the only Tech-Ready Home in South Texas, but also the Eco-Home, a home which reduces homeowner utility bills by up to 50% ,while also being certified as environmentally friendly.

• We engineer our neighborhoods to protect your property value.

Braselton Homes is very particular about where we build our neighborhoods, as well as what we build in

them. This means that your home investment is protected, as homes are built near yours are built with the same overall style and quality, as yours. This is smart growth that you can count on.

• We reinvest in our community. Braselton Homes proudly supports many local charities as a way to give back to the community that has supported the Braselton Family for 3 generations. From the Food Bank of Corpus Christi, to Habitat for Humanity, and CASA of the Coastal Bend , to the American Heart and American Diabetes Association, we are grateful for the opportunity to support organizations that can really make a difference in the lives of the people of the Corpus Christi Bay Area. And, as providing for our city’s future is very important to us, so we have joined in as financial partners with the Corpus Christi Education Foundation, as well as Texas A&M University Corpus Christi • Braselton Homes offers options to make the buying process hassle free. These include our Layaway Program, designed to help you in the financial planning of your New Home; our Credit Care Program, to restore your credit and to help get you into a New Home; our First Time Homebuyer Program, offering special programs to get you into your first New Home; and Community Builder Programs, which involve special financing options for essential community professions, including police officers, firefighters, EMS techs, as well as nurses, military personel , and educators.

• We stand behind out homes. Braselton Homes has an extensive Customer Assurance program, providing the Best Warranties in the Business, along with an extensive Qualtiy Control Program. We are the ONLY Builder to have personel dedicated specifically to the tasks of ensuring a high quality built home, as well as to addressing Customer concerns and warranty issues, after Closing.

• Our homes are award winning for a reason. Come visit a model home and you’ll see the while Braselton Homes has won more local , state and National Awards than any other local HomeBuilder. We take special care to design homes with your family in mind….Braselton Homes have plenty of closets in all the right places, kitchens with great flow and work spaces, family rooms that make everyone want to gather there to spend time together, and bathrooms with every amenity to make your days easier.

And, finally…..There’s a Braselton Home for everyone. With homes starting in the $130’s to our Custom Homes in in the $600s, we enjoy helping every buyer find the home that’s right for his or her family, and lifestyle. And , as we have neighborhoods dotted throughout the Coastal Bend, no matter where you want to live, and work, there’s a Braselton Neighborhood for you.

Please come out and see us; we have 7 fully furnished Model Homes, all around the Corpus Christi Bay Area ,open daily, for you to tour. Corpus Christi is a great place to live…especially in a Braselton Home!

See you in the neighborhood!

Bart Braselton

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thebendmag.com Coastal Bend Living (Special Promotion) 63

(WEDDING DAY)

Bride: Raenor Burton Groom: Jeremiah Parker Date: October 12th, 2014 Ceremony & Reception : The Ranch at San Patricio Food: Marco & Co. Cake: Janet’s Cakery Photographer: Ryan Cromwell & Laura with Padre Ryan Wedding & Events Florist: Always in Bloom Decor: The Ranch at San Patricio

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WHAT IS YOU AND YOUR GROOM’S STORY? Rae: Jeremiah is a very quiet guy. He came into our office almost every day for no real reason at all. I barely noticed him. One day he gave me his card and said my number is on there, call if you need anything. I thought, “What could I possibly need from this guy?” A few weeks later, I ran into him. He was having a particularly bad day, and he asked if I wanted to grab a beer. He jumped into my pick-up and we sat on the beach and talked for hours. Jeremiah: She kidnapped me. I knew from the first Time I saw her, I had to meet her, she’s absolutely gorgeous.

HOW DID HE PROPOSE? Rae: He didn’t propose. He told me that he was going to marry me. On Thanksgiving, he asked my dad for his blessing.

Jeremiah: I knew early on that she was my wife and I let her know. When you know, you know.

WHO OR WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST HELPFUL AND/OR INSPIRING THROUGHOUT THE WEDDING PLANNING PROCESS?

Rae: My mother was the best help ever!

Pinterest is our best friend. Jeremiah: Rae told me what to do and where to stand.

WHAT PART OF THE PLANNING PROCESS WAS MOST STRESSFUL? Rae: I don’t like a lot of choices. Often, I’d like the first thing....dress, floral arrangement, entree, or centerpiece.

Then, they’d show me something else and I’d like that. Very stressful! Jeremiah: I thought it was all pretty easy.

WHAT WAS YOUR ABSOLUTE FAVORITE PART OF YOUR SPECIAL DAY? Rae: Seeing Jeremiah waiting for me. I could tell he was crying. Jeremiah: When I saw her walking down the aisle and she was bawling.

WERE THERE ANY SURPRISE MOMENTS THROUGHOUT THE DAY? Rae: No surprises. My dad, however, had the time of his life. He took a stroll down the aisle without me!

ANY ADVICE FOR FUTURE BRIDES? Rae: Just relax. No one ever notices the small details you’re stressing over.

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Words: Debroah Perry

Magical. Heaven-sent. Miraculous

“Every kid got the best present they had ever had. In fact, I think we were all kids that year!”

No matter what you call it … everyone in the Coastal Bend has a crystal clear memory of the night snow fell on Christmas Eve in 2004.

And no one knows the story of that historic snowfall better than longtime Corpus Christi resident Kathryn Childers.

“The miracle of snow was hard to believe, but the miracle was, it snowed Christmas Eve,” says Childers.

The science behind the snow was rare.

A dipping jet stream sent freezing temperatures from the North to the South, merging with a large swath of precipitation sitting over much of Texas.

The result? Conditions that balmy

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South Texas hadn’t seen in more than 100 years. And, national weather agencies announced that coastal Texas was the only place in the United States that night to receive significant snow accumulations.

Victoria and Lake Jackson received the heaviest blanket totaling 14 inches.

Houston, Galveston and the Rio Grande Valley all received one to two inches of the white stuff while Corpus Christi had accumulation of 10 to 12 inches.

Childers recalls enjoying the moment - the hustle and bustle of the hectic holidays just stopped.

“My fondest memory was driving

by Cole Park on our way to church.

Suddenly atop the quiet silence of

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the snowfall, the air was filled with giggles and laughter - like a playground on the last day of school. I believe it would be fair to call it the sound of joy,” she remembers.

Kids wore socks for gloves yet no one complained about the cold.

“It was delightful. Just like the song says … all was calm and all was bright,” says Childers.

“People coming out of Christmas Eve services stood in awe as they stepped into inches of the white stuff many had never seen. Then, the snowball fights began, neighbors met neighbors with a ‘splat.’ Kids took credit for the white Christmas by announcing they had been praying for it for years,” laughs Childers.

Childers recalls her favorite quote from an excited eight-year-old.

“He told me he had been waiting his whole life for this,” she laughs.

The next day dawned bright and clear with an absolute azure sky. The pristine snow blanketed palm trees, oleanders, roses, green grass and

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cactus. That morning, presents meant nothing.

Santa became irrelevant. Everyone was outside.

“Every kid got the best present they had ever had.

In fact, I think we were all kids that year!” laughs Childers.

Once the snow melted away, everything changed.

“Then we got very busy. Snow literally took over my life,” stated Childers about the next nine months.

“We wanted to save the memories so a book full of images was a logical choice. We decided to call the book Snow. There was really nothing else to call it,” she laughs.

Childers spearheaded an amateur contest and collected more than 6,000 photographs with the help of H-E-B. She was overwhelmed with the response.

“Not only were the images extraordinary, but the precious memories included with the entries were

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“People coming out of Christmas Eve services stood in awe as they stepped into inches of the white stuff many had never seen.”

“In my 40 years of living here, I don’t think I’ve seen anything impact so many lives in such a positive way.”

heartwarming, funny and so very personal. It was very clear this was no ordinary snowstorm. People believed it was a blessing,” says Childers.

The efforts ultimately culminated in two coffee table books, Snow and More Snow, and a children’s read along, More Snow for Kids.

“The books became a real hometown effort. I called it our ‘neighborhood project’ because everyone involved was from around here. All the coordination, promotion, and web design - even the printing took place locally at Grunwald Printing,” touts Childers.

That year, Childers was quickly and accurately dubbed “Mother Snow,” and the books became a regional sensation selling more than one hundred thousand in ten years. School readings, speeches and book signings followed suit, and continue every year starting in November.

when I go to homes and businesses and the snow books are out on the coffee tables year-round,” says Childers.

“In my 40 years of living here, I don’t think I’ve seen anything impact so many lives in such a positive way. When you mention the snow – even a decade later the joy of that night hasn’t lost its luster.”

Mother Snow has definitely enjoyed her decade-long snow mobile ride. And, she will gladly enjoy it each and every year.

“I truly believe everyone has tucked our beautiful and unique white Christmas in their Christmas box of memories and will bring it out every year. That Christmas of 2004 will always be ‘the’ Christmas,” says Childers.

She adds, “The thing that has surprised me most, however, is

10th Anniversary “Snow” Events Dec. 5 Book Signing - 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (during KIII-TV 3’s “Share Your Christmas”) - H-E-B Plus! – Corpus Christi Dec. 6 Book Signing - 12 Noon – 4 p.m.

H-E-B Plus! – Corpus Christi Dec. 7 Book Signing - 1 – 3 p.m. - H-E-B Plus! – Corpus Christi Dec. 13 Corpus Christi Symphony “Home for the Holidays” featuring “The Miracle” arrangement and performance, Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi Dec. 14 Corpus Christi Symphony “Home for the Holidays” featuring “The Miracle” arrangement and performance Rockport Dec. 20 Book Signing - 12 Noon – 4 p.m.

H-E-B Plus! – Corpus Christi www.texassnowbooks.com

68 the bend magazine

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Deana Merrill’s Salon including Royalty Gifts

Whether you’re wanting to get dolled up or looking for that perfect gift this holiday season, we have it all!

7602 S. Staples Ste. 104 Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (36 1) 9 94-7884

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40 F

or forty years the holiday season in Corpus Christi has been heralded by The Nutcracker Ballet, a magical spectacle that appeals to all ages, composed of performers young and old, joining in a masterpiece that delights the soul. Thousands have enjoyed the ritual that unites family, holiday tradition, live symphony orchestra and dance all into a brilliant feast for the senses. Sugar Plum Fairies leap magnificently across the stage, while sparkling white “snow” in tutus dance in glittering unison; the mysterious Rat King challenges the mighty Nutcracker and young Clara learns to follow her heart. It’s a magical combination of art, theatre and certainly one of the most traditionally celebrated ballet’s worldwide. For the Corpus Christi Ballet, this year’s performance is especially exciting as the Corpus Christi Ballet is celebrating 40 years of entertainment and producing generations of incredible talent one dancer at a time!

Words & Photos: Kateri Reyes

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Scenes from The Nutcraker over the past 40 years provided by Lori Bodine.

The Nutcracker is an epic production. For Corpus Christi, the very first Nutcracker in 1974 was an exciting first local pairing of ballet performance with the accompaniment of a live symphony orchestra. There are 150 dancers that culminate the performance.

The overall cost of the production is $100,000; however behind the scenes there are no paid staff, everything is a donation of time and talent, from the elaborate costume design and maintenance to the set design which is the cumulative work of local artists. Dance moms can be found gathered around the worktable in the costume design shop while their children spend hours in practice. The costumes themselves are a work of art, not only exquisite in style, but durable to withstand years of performance!

The costume room is a jaw-dropping sight of meticulously organized costumes hung in layers from floor to ceiling. One nostalgic aspect to

note is that you will find names and dates carefully handwritten on the seams and boning on each costume interior. This is a traditional way to look back at “who” has worn each costume, and is quite a source of pride for each dancer- especially to dance in costumes worn by dancers who have gone on years later to become recognized pros. Behind the scenes this is a tight-knit family, and it’s beautiful to see the interaction between dancers young and old.

Many of the former dancers who have moved on in life still return during Nutcracker season to ensure that practice and training can go on for today’s dancers preparing for the next production.

The woman whose heart and soul has tenderly cultivated generations of dancers with the Corpus Christi Ballet for the past 30 years is the ever graceful Ms. Cristina Munro.

Born in England, Cristina Stirling Munro was considered a “late

bloomer” as she began dancing at age 10. She trained in London with some of Europe’s finest teachers in Cecchetti and Royal Academy methods of dance. Dancing became her international passport as she danced with Sadler’s Wells Opera, National Ballet of Holland, London Festival Ballet, and was a founding member of Eliot Feld’s American Ballet Company in New York. She also served as co-director of the Louisville Ballet and was the Ballet Mistress for the Houston Ballet, it was from Houston that she was finally wooed to Corpus by CC Ballet Directors, Larry & Betty Roquemore. Munro has been a guest teacher all over the U.S., and even won an Emmy Award for producing a television special on Ballet. She has been the sole Artistic Director for the Corpus Christi Ballet since 1985, and is the Director and Owner of the Munro Ballet Studios.

Munro’s motherly interaction with her dancers is remarkable.

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She has had the privilege of being a part of her dancer’s lives often from age 2 on through adulthood, cultivating their graceful athleticism and exceptional endurance in toeshoes, and ensuring that the same dedication and grace overflows into their personal lives. She has proudly ushered her dancers through life to become engineers, lawyers, doctors and business owners- and of course, has seen many a dancer take on a professional careers as dancers and choreographers, dancing professionally in renowned dance companies worldwide.

Lori Bodine is one such dancer who has enjoyed a lifetime of dance cultivation under CC Ballet’s instruction. Lori was the very first Clara in the original 1974 Corpus Christi Ballet performance of the Nutcracker. She, along with other lead performers over the past 40 years will be enjoying a special guest recognition at this year’s Nutcracker anniversary performance. Lori’s ballet aspirations and dedication earned her scholarships by Robert Joffrey to study at his school in New York City, and she went on to dance professionally with the San Francisco Ballet, as well as our own Corpus Christi Ballet. Professional dancers typically work 6 days a week, 8 hours per day between training and performance!

Today Lori continues to teach and choreograph with CC Ballet Studios.

Spring heralds another momentous occasion as the Corpus Christi Ballet will be performing their first ever Wizard of Oz production!! I have already been given a sneak peek at the elaborate flying monkey costumesthis truly will be a show to behold!

Munro laughed as she described that the hardest aspect of that show will be casting a live Toto! No costumes for this performer- they want a real dog to join the cast!

Whether the Nutcracker is a family tradition for you or you are a curious newcomer to the ballet experience, you will not want to miss this year’s 40th Anniversary performances!

For performance dates and ticket information, go to www.corpuschristiballet.com or contact the Ballet Office at 361-882-4588.

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(FARM TO TABLE) FRESH PORK ROAST

Words: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Durrent

74 the bend magazine

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I

t is an American tradition to eat pork, black-eyed peas, and collard greens for luck on New Year’s Day. But how did these particular foods become the lucky symbols of the New Year?

The luck in black-eyed peas can be traced to Savannah, GA, near the end of the Civil War. Union General Tecumseh Sherman, in his famous March to the Sea, captured Savannah on December 21, 1864.

Sherman’s troops burned all the food and provisions of Savannah before leaving town.

On New Year’ Day, the residents of Savannah crawled out of their hiding places in the forests and swamps to find their city a smoking ruin and all of their food destroyed.

But the invading army did not destroy the stores of black-eyed peas. According to legend, the Union soldiers mistakenly believed that black-eyed peas were animal fodder, and since they had taken all the Southern livestock, there was no need to burn the black-eyed peas.

So, on New Year’s Day, 1865, the survivors of Savannah huddled around their fires and ate the only food left to them. The story of those lucky, life-saving black-eyed peas was handed down to the younger generations, a story of humility and grace, until it became folklore.

The tradition of serving pork on New Year’s Day was born in the days before refrigeration, when farmers butchered their hogs in the fall at the first of the cold weather. They salted the pork and stored it in cold cellars for winter.

In lean years, in times of depression and want, the pork did not last until the New Year. To be out of pork so early in winter was a bad omen, but it was good luck to have a pork roast on New Year’s Day—a sign of bountiful times to come.

Collard greens are a cold-weather vegetable. The frost that kills other crops in the field only makes collards sweeter. Poor farmers, harvesting their collards in the winter wind, could count them like money and dream of riches in the New Year.

You can find your own lucky fresh pork roast, black-eyed peas, and collard greens from the farmers at the Southside or Downtown Farmers’ Market, or at Coastal Bend Health Foods in Rockport.

These humble foods are a tradition because they remind us how lucky we are, in any year, to eat well on New Year’s Day.

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Fresh Pork Roast

PREP TIME: 7 minutes Inactive Prep Time: 8-12 hours Cook time: 20 minutes per pound

Ingredients:

Fresh Pork Roast, 3 to 5 pounds (picnic, Boston butt, or ham) ½ cup salt Rub: 2 tsp fresh thyme, stemmed 2 tsp fresh rosemary, stemmed and minced 2 tsp coarsely ground pepper 1 tsp dried bay leaves, crushed pinch ground cloves 3 garlic cloves, sliced

Directions:

Stir salt in 6 cups water until it dissolves. Submerge roast, cover with plastic wrap, and brine in the refrigerator overnight.

Approximately two hours prior to desired mealtime, preheat oven to 325°F. Remove roast from brine and pat dry with paper towels. Combine rub ingredients in a small bowl. Cut several slits into roast, approximately 1” deep using a steak knife. Insert garlic into prepared slits. Massage rub into roast. Place roast into a large pot (Dutch oven is best) and add ½ cup water to the bottom of the pot.

Cook uncovered for approximately 20 minutes per pound or until internal temperature reaches 145°F or higher, depending on how done (or dry) you like your pork.

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76 the bend magazine

Nutrition Facts Serving Size: 3 ounces

Amount per Serving Calories 183 Total Fat 9g Sat fat 3g Trans fat 0g Cholesterol 78mg Carbohydrate 0g Sugar 0g Fiber 0g Protein 24g

Southern Style Black-eyed Peas Prep time: 10 minutes Inactive prep time: 8 hours Cooking time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

1 lb dried black-eyed peas ½ lb fresh bacon, chopped 1 medium onion, diced 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp cayenne pepper sauce 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock 2 bay leaves 1 ½ cups fresh cilantro, diced Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Soak peas prior to cooking according to package directions. If peas are bought fresh from farmer, no need to soak. Drain and rinse peas and remove any undesirable pieces.

Place half of chopped bacon into a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Brown until desired crispness is achieved. Remove prepared bacon, add onion along with remaining bacon, cooking 3-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook an additional 60 seconds.

Add cayenne pepper sauce and peas, stirring until coated. Add stock and bay leaves, and heat until boiling. Reduce heat, cover beans, and simmer for approximately 30 minutes. Add cilantro and season to taste. Serve peas topped with crisp bacon.

Nutrition Facts Serving Size: ½ cup

Amount per Serving Calories 150 Total Fat 4.1g Sat fat 1.2g Trans fat 0g Cholesterol 9mg Carbohydrate 19g Sugar 3g Fiber 6g Protein 10g

Collards Greens Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook time: 1 hour

Ingredients: ½ lb bacon, roughly chopped ½ large sweet onion, chopped 1 ½ tsp crushed red pepper 4 garlic cloves, minced 2 bunches collard greens (about 6 cups), rinsed, stemmed, and roughly chopped 2 cups low-sodium low-fat chicken stock, with one cup extra on hand Sea salt, to taste

Directions

Sauté the bacon, onions, and pepper flakes in a large pot over medium-high heat. Heat until onions become translucent and bacon begins to brown. Add garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add collards, chicken stock, and salt to taste, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes and up to two hours.

Nutrition Facts Serving Size: 1 cup

Amount per Serving Calories 72 Total Fat 4.4g Sat fat 2.4g Trans fat 0g Cholesterol 18mg Carbohydrate 9g Sugar 1g Fiber 5g Protein 4.7g

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(CUISINE)

80

DINING GUIDE

Check out these great places to dine around the Coastal Bend, or let us know your favorite at thebendmag.com!

Authentic New York Pizza 78 the bend magazine

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Alan & Maria Kruger

Bringing a Taste of NYC to CC

Pizza might be the one food group that everyone agrees to love, but Alan Kruger can tell you anything you ever wanted to know about the dish. In an industry that praises delivery, efficiency and technology, Alan and his wife Maria Kruger are sticking with artistry, authenticity and a friendly atmosphere.

Authentic New York Pizza, near Staples and Holly, is a truly authentic experience. If you have ever roamed the crowded streets of New York City, you probably noticed the string of mom and pop restaurants and shops lining the sidewalks. Authentic New York Pizza is no different. It offers a laid back setting right off of the hustle and bustle of S. Staples St., where guests are greeted through Kruger’s friendly New York City accent.

“I’m first generation in this country,” says Kruger. “Both of my parents are European. My father is from Barvarian, Germany, my mother is from Sicily. They met in New York - the great melting pot. I was born and raised in New York.”

When Kruger was 12 years old and still in school, he got his first job washing dishes at Delo’s Italian Restaurant, a small family owned restaurant in NYC. That’s where he learned the basics of the business. He worked his way through high school and into college learning everything he could from his mentor until a special opportunity came along.

“I then had an opportunity to intern as a chef for a five time gold medalist, Niccole Scotto from Monte di Procida, Italy…For thirty years, I ran one of the biggest restaurant and caterers in New York, The Westbury Manor.

I worked my way up from first cook to executive chef in 10 years,” says Kruger.

For Kruger, it was hard to leave that all behind; however, it was time to get back to the roots of why he loved to cook. That was when he came to Corpus, Maria’s hometown. They arrived in Corpus Christi on November 1st, 2011 and opened their restaurants doors about a month later on December 9th.

region of Italy it originates from. Authentic New York Pizza specializes in truly Neapolitan pizza, but also offers Sicilian pizza, or deep dish, more prominent in Chicago.

“A majority of the Italians, who came to New York, came from Naples.

My style of cooking; my sauces, my recipes, are all influenced by immigrants from Naples Italy. The type of pizza they brought with them is more of a bread; the bread they make in Naples is very thick. Originally, in Italy, at the end of the week, they would take the leftover bottom of the bread and put sauce and a little cheese on top, bake it, and give it to the kids. During WWII, they needed food to feed the soldiers in masses – something nourishing and cheap. That is where the Italians got the concept,” says Kruger.

Their pizza is truly artisan. Each pie is all hand-tossed and every pizza is unique. Some are a little thicker, some a little thinner, but the quality is always the same. Every ingredient is fresh - nothing comes out of can. Tomatoes are even imported straight from Italy, offering a naturally sweeter flavor reminiscent in authentic Neapolitan pizza. The sauce, sausage and meatballs are all made by hand daily, making their Meat Lovers one of the most popular items.

So grab a quick slice for lunch or take home a full pizza (guaranteed to fill up a family). Either way, you are in for a truly authentic experience.

Authentic New York Pizza

In New York, you can find anything from very, very thin crust, to very thick crust. It’s all NYC pizza, but each variety is categorized by the specific

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5838 S. Staples Street Corpus Christi, Texas (361) 986-1151

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DINING OUT CORPUS CHRISTi Authentic New York Pizza

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

Vietnam Restaurant

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

Bleu Bistro

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

Aka Sushi

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

Bellinos

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

Brewster Street Ice House

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

Citrus Bistro

$ 100 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-2047 Mon- Fri: Lunch Only

Niko’s Steakhouse

$$ 5409 Saratoga Boulevard, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 992-2333 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Mamma Mia’s

$$$ 128 N Mesquite St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 883-3773 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only

Mon-Th: Lunch and Dinner Fri-Sat: Dinner Only

Molé

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

Thai Cottage

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

Republic of Texas

Russos Coal Fired Italian Kitchen

$$$$ 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 887-1600 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only

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

Water Street Seafood Company

Grimaldis

$$ 309 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-8683 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

$$ 5488 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 (361) 980-8600 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Yardarm

Sang’s Imperial Café

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

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

Katz 21

Saltwater Grill

$$$ 5702 Spohn Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 884-1221

$$ 2401 Cimarron Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Your Source For

All Things Sweet Soda Fountain, Gifts Gourmet Foods & Candles

Photo: Jessi Sansing

3801 S. Staples at Weber www.hamlinpharmacy.com 80 the bend magazine

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(361) 993-7258 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Harrison’s Landing

$$ 108 Peoples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 881-8503 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

BonnA-Petit

$ 4301 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 299-5127 Mon-Sat: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Hoegemeyer’s BBQ

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

TakeNiwa

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

PORT ARANSAS Venetian Hot Plate

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

ROCKPORT ChartRoom $$$ 39 Mazatlan Drive Rockport, Texas 78382 (361) 790-2450 Tues - Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Lisabella’s Bistro

Glow

$$$ 5009 Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-4222 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only

$$ 1815 Broadway St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-2644 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only

Café Pheonix

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

Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn

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

The Boiling Pot

$$ 201 S Fulton Beach Rd, Fulton, TX 78382 (361) 729-6972 Mon-Th: Dinner Only; Fri-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Shempy’s Grill

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

Irie’s

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

Seafood & spaghetti works

Latitude 28˚02’

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

$$ 901 South Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-5666 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Bellino’s

$$ 523 S Fulton Beach Rd Rockport, TX 78382

(361) 729-9003 Thurs-Mon: Lunch and Dinner

PADRE ISLAND Dragonfly

$$$ 14701 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Chisti, TX 78418 (361) 949-2224 Tues-Fri: Lunch and Dinner; Sat: Dinner Only

Black Marlin

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

Black Sheep Bistro

$$$ 15201 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-4819 Mon-Sat: Dinner Only; Sun: Lunch Only

Scuttlebutts

$$ 14254 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-6769 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Snoopy’s Pier

$$ 13313 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-8815 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Doc’s Seafood and Steaks

$ 13309 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-6744 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

portland pep’s

(361) 334-6081

A T a st

o e of Central Mexic

Only the Freshest!

Entirely Homemade!

Truly Authentic Cuisine of

Mexi co

$ 1807 US 181, Portland, TX 78374 (361) 643-1361 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

OPEN Tues-Thrus 11-9 Fri 11-10 Sat 9-10 Sun 9-9 Full Bar molerestaurant.com

6042 S. Padre Island Dr. @ Airline Gulfway Center

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

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DINING OUT of the City’s best restaurants. From January 19-Febraury 1, 2015 diners will be treated to a three course menu selection developed specifically for the two week event. Diners can stop in and ask for the DINE Downtown menu at participating restaurants.

Restaurants range from fine dining at The Republic of Texas Steakhouse, to Water Street Seafood Co., to House of Rock. All menus will be $40.

“It’s a great time to try all the different downtown restaurants whether it’s your longtime favorite or one you always wanted to try,” said Terry Sweeney, Executive Director of the Corpus Christi Downtown Management District.

Water Street Oyster Bar

DINE Downtown! Corpus Christi

Approximately 20 downtown Corpus Christi restaurants are coming together to provide a unique dining experience beginning in January 2015. The DINE Downtown Corpus Christi event, developed by the Corpus Christi Downtown Management Merchants Association, provides diners a special, value priced menu at some

82 the bend magazine

“We are very excited to be participating,” said House of Rock owner, Casey Lain. “It’s a way for people to try all of the extensive dining selection downtown has. The House of rock is certainly looking forward to showing Corpus Christi our excellent food. So we hope to see lots of people downtown during this event!”

For more details on DINE Downtown! Corpus Christi, people should visit www.cctexasdmd. com beginning January 1, 2015.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

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84 the bend magazine

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}