October 2014

OCTOBER 2014, ISSUE 7

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Making Strides THE WOMEN’S ISSUE

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Events

Social Hour P.12 Wedding Bells P.52

The Arts Kent Ullberg P.20

Entertainment

All Jazzed Up P.26

Health

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Halo Flight - The Chip Hogan Story P.34

2014 Medical Guide P.40

Home

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Cuisine

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“Where the view is off the chart!�

39 Mazatlan Drive

Rockport, Texas 78382

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(STAFF)

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

DISTRIBUTION: Kevin Kusenberger 361.792.3606

ART DIRECTOR: Julio Studios

SUBMISSIONS: editor@thebendmag.com

OPERATIONS: Kaley Regas

ADVERTISING: info@thebendmag.com

MANAGING EDITOR: Carol Pate

THE BEND OFFICE: 5262 S. Staples. St. Ste.300 Corpus Christi, TX 78411 Phone: 361.792.3606 THEBENDMAG.COM

MARKETING & EVENTS: Stefanie DeWaters

Operations Kaley Regas

PHOTOGRAPHY: Rachel Durrent Michael Diamante Bellezza Photography Gary Blum DLG Photography

Managing Editor Carol Pate

Copyright Š 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.

CONTRIBUTORS: Cissy Tabor Justin Butts Kayla Butts Krystal Villarreal Mecklin Ragan Fares Sabawi

CONNECT WITH US The Bend Magazine @thebendmag @thebendmag

ISSUE7

Events & Marketing Stefanie DeWaters

Health

fashion

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P.30

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The Belle of fulton beach

halo flight

Fall elegance

C O A S TA L L I F E M A G A Z I N E

Lori Bodine

Home

THE BEND

Marketing Consultant

OCTOBER 2014, ISSUE 7

T H E E SS E N T I A L L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E O F T H E C O A S TA L B E N D

Making Strides THE WOMENS ISSUE

| WOMEN OF INFLUENCE | BREAST CANCER SURVIVORS |

OCTOBER 2014

+ 2014 MEDICAL GUIDE

ABOUT THE COVER

Lead Photographer Rachel Durrent

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Culinary Editors Kayla & Justin Butts

We love making new discoveries! Lucky for us we happened upon this beautiful trail in Rockport, TX that exemplified the fall season. For more information about hiking, biking, birding and kayaking around Rockport, TX visit www.aransaspathways.com or download the app.

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Design Studio 3636 S. Alameda, Suite H Corpus Christi, Texas 361-851-8052

SUSAN CASTOR collection

Retail Showroom 1908 Highway 361 Port Aransas, Texas 361-749-0524

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“Serving as your judge has been my honor and privilege. Nueces Country is my home and as a judge I believe in the same thing you do-hard work, fairness, and the desire to do what is truly right for our community. I would appreciate your vote!�

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

WOMAN POWER

A Jordan Regas, Publisher

“We got doctors, lawyers, politicians too. Everybody take a look around. Can you see, can you see? Can you see there’s a woman right next to you?”

– “Doin’ It For Themselves” Aretha Frankilin & Eurythmics

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bout 30 years ago this month, in October 1985, Aretha Franklin and British pop duo Eurythmics released a hit single titled “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves.” At the time of the song’s release, the faces of leadership in Corpus Christi and around the Coastal Bend were predominantly male. Over the years, the pendulum has slowly swung in the opposite direction. Recently, we took a look around and noticed something happening in the Coastal Bend; a majority of the most predominant leadership roles in the Coastal Bend were held by women. At a time of such major economic growth and expansion, we decided it would be good to get to know a few of these powerful women. We wanted to know who they are, what they had to overcome to get where they are and if they could share some of the wisdom they gained along the way. We didn’t have time or space to interview everyone on our list, but I guess there is always next year.

Therefore, we would like to dedicate this issue to the women of the Coastal Bend. To the lawyers, doctors, students, servers, politicians, teachers, nurses, executives, managers, artists, therapists, chefs, early childhood educators, and, let’s not forget, the full-time moms (probably one of the tougher jobs in town!) Women play a crucial role in every aspect of life around the Coastal Bend. Personally, I am lucky to have an amazing woman by my side. Without her, this magazine would not exist. I think I speak on behalf of all men; be it husbands, sons, fathers or brothers, when I say that we are truly grateful for all you do, even if we don’t always act like it. More importantly, we stand beside you in your battle against a disease that is not the end for women (or men), but the start of a battle. It is a battle that we are becoming more and more proactive in fighting through awareness efforts, fundraising and diligent screening. I have the privilege of knowing some local women who survived breast cancer; however, they are more than survivors - they are truly the most powerful women in the Coastal Bend.

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EVENTS

Seafair

October 10th, 11th & 12th, 2014 Rockport Festival Grounds www.rockportseafair.com ‘

The 40th annual Rockport Seafair celebrates autumn’s arrival at what we call the Charm of the Texas Coast. Designed with families in mind, the three-day festival features an old-fashioned parade, stand up paddleboard races and the wildly popular crab races. It also includes arts and crafts vendors as well as gumbo, dessert and salsa cook-offs. Experts are on hand to provide education about the Gulf Coast. Throughout the weekend, live entertainment delights dance and music fans. Headliners include: Restless Heart, Beatlemania64, and Clarrissa Serna.

GOING FOR THE GREEN GOLF TOURNAMENT

October 17th, 2014 Palmilla Beach Golf Club www.islandfoundation.com

8:30 a.m. Tee Off, 4-Person Scramble benefitting Seashore Charter Schools. There are many sponsorship opportunities and we are looking for all golfers who enjoy having a great time that helps a great cause. The event will have Hole In One Prizes, a Water Hazard Prize, multiple contest prizes, a goody bag for each player, and even a prize for the worst team! The Island Foundation works hard to raise the necessary funds to reduce that deficit and provide our 500+ students with an excellent education. They need your help!

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS NOVEMBER 1ST, 2014

Downtown on Starr, Mesquite, & Peoples Street www.diadelosmuertoscc.com The 11th year of El Dia de los Muertos Street Festival has grown to almost 35,000 in attendance and expanded to include two blocks of Starr Street and two blocks of Mesquite. Also, now 3 stages: one for popular Latin-influenced music, one for more traditional cultural performances and one for up-andcoming Texas bands. The Kids’ Corner includes craft activities, games, and a rock-climbing wall supplied by Kidz Ultimate Party Zone. Student Art Associations from TAMUCC and Del Mar College provide demonstrations for the event. Plus, an enormous Hecho-a-Mano Art Expo features many Dia de los Muertos themed craft items, jewelry, and artworks by over 90 vendors.

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Book Signing Friday, October 17th 5:30-7 p.m.

Texas Maritime Museum Open to the Public!

Texas Maritime Museum 1202 Navigation Circle Rockport, Texas 78382 1-866-729-2469 www.texasmaritimemuseum.org

ULLBERG STUDIOS

NEW LOCATION

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EVENTS

(SOCIAL HOUR) Did we catch you around the bend?

Greater Corpus Christi Hospitality Association’s

1. Zamir Bhakta, Pramit Bhakta & Bhavin Bhakta 2. Sara McCampbell Smith, Jordan Michael, Liz McCampbell, Ashley Higson & Katherine Chang 3. Jim Kunau & Marisol Ramirez 4. Mark Avelar, Nader Margia, Butch Pool, & Brent Chesney

3rd Annual Cards for Kids Benefiting

Children’s Advocacy Center of the Coastal Bend & H.E.L.P. Location: Aria

Photos: Rachel 2.Durrent 2.

1.

3.

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4.

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Documenting Life

One MOment at a time

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EVENTS 2.

1.

2.

1.

4.

MAP of Texas Shrimp Boil

3.

3

Casa de Amor Benefiting

Ronald McDonald House Charities Corpus Christi Location: The Soloman P. Ortiz Center 1. Kim Wilmoth & Regis Philbin 2. John & Crystal Valls, M.D., Frank Hastings 3. Amy & Sean Mintz, Tara & Jason Hoelscher 4. Dr. Scott Humpal & Sunil Kumar 5. Callie & Rajan Ahuja

4.

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5.

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

General Dentists:

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

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(COASTAL TRENDS)

Fall in love with Bella Jewel, Corpus Christi’s newest fine clothing boutique, and owner, Alyssa Shepard’s elegant taste.

The Bend’s New Jewel 16

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Whether shopping for girls night or a gala, you’re sure to find the perfect look at Bella Jewel.

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Wardrobe: Bella Jewel, 3636 S Alameda Suite F, Corpus Christi Photos: Rachel Durrent

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Donned in black and white, the women look stunning in their classic, yet modern apparel.

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Bella Jewel carries on-trend styles for all occasions and body types.

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(ARTS) Kent Ullberg - Sculptor

| PHOTOS: RACHEL DURRENT|

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O

n the verge of 70, Kent Ullberg is still on the move. So how do you keep a world traveling wildlife sculptor coming back to the Coastal Bend for nearly 40 years?

This month, Kent Ullberg will travel to Denver, Colorado to commission a giant mastodon sculpture for the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. It’s a somewhat ironic bookend to a career that might not have been realized had it not been for Ullberg accepting a position at the very same museum over 40 years ago. Denver is due a bit of gratitude for bringing Ullberg to the United States, but it’s the Coastal Bend that gave him a place to call home.

Born and raised in a Swedish fishing village, Ullberg fell in love with wildlife and marine life at an early age. As a young man, he joined the Swedish Merchant Marines, which only furthered his fascination with marine life.

“While at art school in Stockholm, Sweden, I was told that the kind of work I enjoyed doing, Realism, was not popular. My professor told me that I was not

going to make a living doing this kind of work. So, as a naturalist, I took the second best route – studying in museums,” says Ullberg.

He spent the next few years studying nature and wildlife as an apprentice taxidermist in Germany. After getting his diploma in Germany, he studied and worked at a museum in France. But his love for adventure eventually took him all the way to Botswana, Africa, where he served as Curator of their National Museum. It was a chance of fate that led Denver Museum of Nature and Science to Botswana. After working with Ullberg in Africa they invited him to come visit the museum in America. He was hired by the Denver Museum as the Curator of the African Horde.

“While in Denver, I saw a foundry that poured really high quality metal for the first time. I had seen foundries all over Europe; in Germany, while working in France, in Italy, and none of them had that kind of quality,” says Ullberg.

Ullberg loved working in Colorado, but longed to be closer to water once more, to be back in a place that felt more like home. Thanks to a few collectors of his in South Texas, the young artist made his first trip to the area back in the early 1970s.

“My wife and I were in an art show in

Kent Ullberg Studios 361.851.1600 5337 Yorktown Blvd, Ste 2c Corpus Christi, TX 78413 kentullberg.net

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San Antonio, so we decided to drive down to the coast.

When we came in over the harbor bridge my eyes lit up.

I thought, ‘Wow! Look at this, here is the port and the Sparkling City by the Sea.’ We drove around for a while exploring. Then went out to Padre Island and there were houses on canals with docks for a boat. There was one house that was for sale. We were here for only a few hours, but we talked with the realtor who said, “By the way, that house has a studio in it.’ Clever man he was. It was a guest house on top with skylights, but we signed on the dotted line. Then we drove back to Denver and thought, ‘What on earth have we done?” remembers Ullberg.

The rest is history. Over the years Kent Ullberg has created monuments all over the world, winning numerous awards and gaining worldwide recognition as one of the leading wildlife sculptors of our time. The National Academy in New York and the Salon in Paris, have both featured some of Ullberg’s work, but he continues to call the Coastal Bend home.

“I have sculpted over 100 public monuments around the world, many of which were inspired here in this area,” says Ullberg.

Ullberg’s eyes light up while discussing local marine life and birding, particularly in reference to Whooping Cranes.

Named after their whooping sound and known as the tallest North American Bird, the species was nearly extinct back in the 1940s. As a part of their migration pattern, the cranes harbor in the Coastal Bend during winter. Kent Ullberg is a self-proclaimed birder. Fishing is another deep passion of Ullberg’s; his deep fascination with billfish is revealed in many of his sculptures. Ullberg will never create a sculpture of a subject he hasn’t experienced firsthand.

Many of his local collectors share his passion for fishing and local wildlife, hoping to bring a taste of that experience into their home or garden.

“I have sculpted over 100 public monuments around the world, many of which were inspired here in this area.”

Kent Ullberg

Ullberg is very grateful to the Coastal Bend for all the support residents have given to him, including 17 commissions over the years. Many of the public monuments you might see around town are Ullberg’s work.

Despite his prolific career, Ullberg is not slowing down.

While preparing to commission the monument in Denver, he is working on a monument for another museum in San Antonio. The truth is, at any given time, Kent Ullberg could be anywhere in the world, but it’s not where he is that matters – it’s what he leaves behind while he’s there.

Thanks to Ullberg, many have experienced his masterful rendition of wildlife; moreover, many around the world have experienced the rare beauty of the Coastal Bend.

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“Instead of mourning about our loved ones, we’re celebrating them!”

“I really like that this festival is not only fun for the whole family but it’s also controlled and organized,” said Marroquin.

Art Scene Belinda Edwards

Co-Founder of Downtown Dia de los Muertos Festival

I

Words: Krystal Villarreal | Photos: Rachel Durrent

t was in 2008 when Belinda Edwards, owner of Electra Art and Axis Tattoo told her neighbor Michelle Smythe, Executive Director of K Space Contemporary, that she wanted to throw a Dia de los Muertos festival right here in the Coastal Bend. Smythe was immediately on board and the two began planning.

“My favorite thing about Dia de los Muertos is that it’s a happy holiday,” said Smythe. “Instead of mourning about our loved ones, we celebrate them!”

The first festival was first held in 2008 with only 500 attendees. Roughly 30

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vendors set up shop and there was a stage for entertainment. Last year’s festival had more than 35,000 attendees, almost 100 vendors and three different stages for entertainment.

The Day of the Dead festival will stretch from the beginning of Star Street to the House of Rock, Mesquite Street from the corner of The Corpus Christi Caller Times to Peoples Street and lastly, this year they’re adding Peoples Street and La Retama Park to complete the Chaparral grid.

Local vendor Mariel Marroquin has participated in this festival since its second year in 2009.

According to Marroquin, attendees also get to learn about the heritage of another culture. “I like that I have one day to celebrate something that’s from my same hometown,” said Marroquin.

“I encourage everyone to come and check it out, even if you have no idea what it’s about, I promise that you won’t be disappointed.”

Aside from the dozens of vendors selling 100 percent handmade crafts, there will be food and a ton of entertainment including: Savor, Los Conquista, Chica’s Rock, Latin Talk, Folklorico dancers and much more.

There will also be a costume and piñata-designing contest. The piñata contest will feature eligible contestants from art classes throughout the CCISD. The crowd is encouraged to view the piñata’s and cast their vote.

The winner will receive $500 in art supplies for their school.

Make sure you take your children by the Kids Corner, where you will find

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games, craft tables and a rock-climbing wall for your little ones to enjoy!

Edward’s husband Bruce and her employees close their Flour Bluff tattoo shop so they can start decorating early for the Dia de los Muertos festival, lining the city block with christmas lights, piñata’s, flags and other décor.

“We put a lot of work into throwing this festival but it is so rewarding hearing all of the positive feedback we get,” said Smythe.

While Smythe and her neighbor started the festival themselves, it’s grown so much over the past 7 years that now they have a board of over 15 members to help make this event possible.

“The best part of the Dia de los Muertos festival is that you don’t have to pay a penny,” said Edwards.

“Everyone is welcomed to come and enjoy the music and other entertainers at no cost.”

The festival will take place Nov. 1 from 6 p.m. until midnight. Come and see what all the hype is about and support your local artists, vendors and community!

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“If you’ve never been to the jazz festival, and you like music, you belong there,�

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ALL JAZZED UP Words: Fares Sabawi | Photos: Gary Blum Photography

Who knew that a small gathering of jazz players in 1959 would set the wheels in motion for a Corpus Christi tradition?

M

ore than 54 years ago, the Jazz Club of Del Mar College invited local jazz artist Beto Garcia to bring his band to the campus to play some music. Garcia accepted, and put on a show in front of 150 people at Del Mar, a crowd that far exceeded expectations.

Del Mar librarian Frank Hankin realized how successful the show was, so he was able to convince the college administration to provide the auditorium for free to hold the first-ever Texas Jazz Festival.

Since then, Corpus Christi has sustained the festival.

More than 55 bands will continue the tradition Oct. 17-19 at Heritage Park, where bands will show off their talents on three different stages at the 54th annual Texas Jazz Festival.

The festival has been free since its inception and is still free today, despite the challenges to keep it that way.

“I have to raise between $250,000 to $275,000 every year to put this on,” said Texas Jazz Festival Society President Rick Sanchez.

Though that may seem like a tall order, the Texas Jazz Festival has managed to succeed year in and year out.

“I believe that it shows this community is behind the arts,” Sanchez said. “As much as we like to donate

to other worthy causes, people stay behind the arts because we need this part of our society.”

Sanchez said he has come to be known as “Mr. Jazz.”

In his voicemail, he even tells the caller to “have a jazzy day,” but he’ll be the first to tell you that although he plays trumpet, he doesn’t play jazz.

He has been on the Board of Members and would later be elected president because of his love for the music and the event.

“Since I was a child, my dad took me to the jazz festival,” he said. “Out of the 54 festivals, I missed two because I was overseas in Vietnam. I always felt it was my duty to give back to the jazz festival because it’s given me so much enjoyment over the years.”

Jazz may not be the most popular form of music, especially in South Texas, where country is king. Yet, jazz has historically been a fluid genre of music, constantly changing rhythm and style. That elasticity makes jazz appealing to a diverse audience.

“Everybody that’s anybody shows up,” said Joe Revelez, who will perform at the Texas Jazz Festival with his band, Latin Heart. “You get all kinds of people. From country folk to people that listen to tejano.”

Revelez, who has been a part of Latin Heart for 12

years, has performed across Texas but said this was one of his favorite gigs because of all the musicians that get invited.

“Great musicians from all over the country get together just to play jazz,” Revelez said. “It’s a great weekend of music and it’s always an honor to be part of it.”

Latin Heart plays Latin jazz, and will debut their new album “Salsa meets Jazz” which combines the two genres of music.

Latin jazz won’t be the only type of music played throughout the weekend, though.

“We have all the flavors of jazz,” Sanchez said. “From gospel music, blues, salsa, Latin and big band to the best military jazz band in the United States.”

For Revelez, jazz music has always been a way of life.

It was his idols like Chick Corea and Bill Evans that opened his mind to the genre.

“I’ve been in the Latino music business all my life, but I’ve learned my music from the jazz greats,” he said. “They’re all so inspirational so that’s what got me to want to learn.”

Because jazz is always changing, Revelez never stops studying up on it.

“I never went to school,

so that was my school,” he said. “It’s endless. You can never know it all.”

What sets the Texas Jazz Festival apart though, Sanchez said, is how much people appreciate the music.

“It’s not a club atmosphere,” he said. “People aren’t standing around talking; they come to listen to the music. The musicians feel that. Nothing compares to what we have.”

Sanchez said it takes an entire year of work for him and the other board members to bring the concert to life, but he always feels like it’s worth it.

“People ask me why my board members and I work so hard all year to do this,” he said. “I say ‘just come with me on a Saturday night…and look at the crowd and the music.’

Everybody is dancing and clapping and having a good time. We brought them all together when they would have just been at home watching TV.” With three stages playing all kinds of music throughout the weekend, Sanchez said he guarantees a good time.

“If you’ve never been to the jazz festival, and you like music, you belong there,” he said. “Once you go one time, you will keep on going for the rest of your life.”

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Fall is for Fertilizing One of the best things about this time of year in the Coastal Bend is that we finally get relief from our hot temperatures as we move into fall. This is the perfect time to fertilize your lawn and plants that are probably a little stressed from the summer heat. ·

Fertilize your plants with

·

Apply fertilizers to your

Composting both lawns and

Osmocote or other time-

lawn. Make sure they are

plants is very beneficial

released fertilizers. These

winterized formulas for

around this time.

fertilizers will be effective

southern grasses.

for six months, in time to

Don’t forget to prune your ready for more fall growth.

spring.

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perennials, getting them

reapply at the beginning of

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·

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WOM A

s they gather for a photo shoot, these friendly and charming women can’t help but hug one another and stop a moment to connect and discuss recent activities.

“You can be charming for the first five minutes, but after that you better know something,” recites Corpus Christi Mayor Nelda Martinez - one of her favorite quotes. These charming and influential women of the Coastal Bend certainly do “know something.” Turning knowledge into power, these women are working to build infrastructure, attract business and investments, promote market area attractions, influence legislative issues and much more.

Their inner resources are powered by morning routines that begin before 6:00 a.m. with quiet time, daily devotionals and exercise. Their passion and dedication often propel 30

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their work day into the evening where they generously give more of their time to their work and various nonprofit organizations. “You only have one life to live, don’t waste a minute of it. Make a difference every day,” advises Paulette Kluge, CEO, Corpus Christi Convention and Visitor Bureau.

Continually striving for improvements or “taking everything to the next level” is Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce CEO Diane Probst‘s life’s motto and she is encouraged by her biggest supporter, husband Mike Probst.

Being part of a great team is important to Judy Hawley, Chair of the Port of Corpus Christi. Hawley is proud of the fact that The Port of Corpus Christi is self sustaining.

Acknowledging that accomplishments are often the work of many people, Hawley believes this requires “strong relationships built on respect and trust.”

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

MEN Words: Cissy Tabor

Photos: Bellezza Photography

A relationship that went from employee/employer, to mentor, to life-long friend began at age 12 for Nelda Martinez when she became a babysitter for her new neighbor, Mary Rhodes (Corpus Christi Mayor 1991-1997). “One of the most powerful characteristics she taught me was courage, because sometimes the right thing to do isn’t the easy thing to do,” Martinez said.

However, it was her job waiting tables as full time college student that taught her discipline. “It was hard work, hard on your feet and it tested my endurance,” Martinez explains.

Also starting out in the world of work at an early age, teenager Paulette Kluge worked as a restaurant cashier. “I loved my part time job and felt as if it was my restaurant,” says Kluge, who was required to greet customers and ask them to “come back and visit soon.” It turned out to be great training for a future CVB CEO and the start of a 40-year marketing career.

numerous amenities of Rockport- Fulton, skills she began to acquire at age 15 in her first job as a clothing store salesperson. Now with 25 years as Chamber of Commerce President, Probst has written a book, Chamberology: The Art of Running a Chamber of Commerce. Readers are given a “Chamberologist” t-shirt upon completion of the book.

As a teen, Judy Hawley worked as a YWCA swim teacher and went on to become a junior high school teacher and tennis coach. She drove the bus to away matches for students who wouldn’t otherwise be able to participate.

Hawley also served eight years as a State Representative.

These influential women possess resilient attitudes with no self-limiting beliefs as they continue to support a common goal: promoting the Coastal Bend and making it a great place to live, work, and play.

Today, Diane Probst uses her skills to sell or promote the [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? As a business woman, it would be earning and sustaining the trust of a new client base. I understood that I had to work twice as hard to earn that client base. However, I’m a big believer in keeping the violin in the case and making your case based on your knowledge, your experience and the value you bring as a business person.

HOW DO YOU FIND BALANCE BETWEEN CAREER AND LIFE? I was told that the Mayor’s position was a part time position and you can choose to put as much or as little into it as you please. I’m all in. It’s going to be, in the full scheme of things, short lived. I very easily work 16-17 hour days. And I do that whole heartedly, knowing that working with a team of great people in our community and being committed to making a positive difference in our city makes the long days worth every single minute.

IS THERE A MOTTO YOU LIVE BY?

Nelda Martinez

Position: Mayor, City of Corpus Christi Education: Graduate of University

Be prepared. I’m a real big believer that success is in the planning. Read. Read.

Read. Turn off the television and read.

My favorite saying is that you can be charming for the first five minutes, but after that - you better know something.

of Texas, Austin

Proudest Achievements: Through working as a team regionally, we were able to obtain funding for the Harbor Bridge. Also, following through in water plans with Mary Rhodes Phase 2, beginning construction and having a stable water supply until approximately 2040 as a result. This was all through team effort and regionalism.

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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

Judy Hawley

Position: Chair, Port of Corpus Christi Education: Graduated Cum Laude from Knox College, Galesburg, Illinois

Proudest Achievements: Being part of the team that has joined the economic interests of San Patricio and Nueces County, building the infrastructure and attracting the investments that are providing the Coastal Bend with such an economic resurgence.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO OVERCOME? Being elected State Representative was pretty formidable. Winning the election was possible only because of a great team of friends. I had little name recognition, no political experience and was running in a large 5 county district.

Together, we outworked the opponents in the two primaries and the general election.

IS THERE A MOTTO YOU LIVE BY? Strong relationships, built on respect and trust, are just as critical in business and governance as they are in our personal lives.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS? God gives each of us different talents. If we can use the ones we have well – and He is pleased – we have been successful.

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WHO IS YOUR BUSINESS HERO OR MENTOR? My husband. He is my biggest supporter.

He has encouraged me to reach higher than I ever thought I could.

Diane Probst, CCE Position: President/CEO, Rockport

Chamber of Commerce

Education: BBA Marketing from Texas A&M University – College Station

Proudest Achievements: : In my career,

achieving the 5-star Accreditation Status from the US Chamber of Commerce for our Chamber, achieving CCE certification from the American Chamber of Commerce Executives and authoring a book Chamberology: The Art of Running a Chamber of Commerce.

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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

ANY WORDS OF ADVICE TO YOUNG WOMEN STARTING THEIR CAREER? In any career, get onto a professional development track to give you the education you need to stay fresh, motivated and excited about your work.

BEST ADVICE YOU EVER RECEIVED? It is not what happens, but how you handle what happens.

Paulette Kluge

Position: Corpus Christi Convention and Visitor Bureau CEO Education: Attended Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas

Proudest Achievements: Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Regent Hotels International, BUT my favorite achievement is being named CEO for the Corpus Christi Convention and Visitor Bureau

HOW DO YOU FIND BALANCE BETWEEN CAREER AND LIFE? If your career is your passion, you will naturally have friends that share your personal and career time. That said, we all have many roles – define goals for each role on a weekly basis. It will help you keep the balance.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS? Measurable goals are how we measure our success. Feeling successful comes more from encouraging, mentoring, praising, and growing the people we encounter every day..

ANY WORDS OF ADVICE TO YOUNG WOMEN STARTING THEIR CAREER? Love what you do. Identify your natural talents and match your talents with a profession. I love the exercise of writing a eulogy. Identify how you want to be remembered – it will help define how you will live your life.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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HOGAN’S HALO FLIGHT Chip Hogan is one of the thousands of patients who would not be alive today if it were not for HALO-Flight.

On October 2, 2011 Chip Hogan sat down to watch a Dallas Cowboy game. He suddenly had a massive headache and tried to get up to get some aspirin when he noticed he couldn’t get up.

“I was really appreciative that my husband was taken to San Antonio via HALO-Flight where he was assessed immediately,” said Kathy. “When you’re in a situation like ours, time is of the essence.”

“I was sitting at the edge of my chair telling my body to get up and it wouldn’t get up,” said Hogan. “I immediately knew something was wrong.”

Both Hogan and Kathy agree that the HALO-Flight crew was very professional and extremely efficient.

When Hogan’s son-in-law tried to help him up, Hogan fell to the floor.

It was then that Hogan realized he was paralyzed on the left side of his body.

Family members called 911, thinking Hogan might have had a heart attack because he had lost his father to a heart attack.

The ambulance took Hogan to Spohn Shoreline, where doctors discovered that he was suffering from an AVM Cerebral Ateriovenous Malformation on the right front lobe of his brain that was ruptured and bleeding.

Once tests were completed and Hogan was stabilized, Dr. Matthew Alexander called “HALO-Flight” to transport Hogan to San Antonio Methodist Hospital where neurosurgeon Dr. Arnold Vardiman, who specializes in AVMs, treated Hogan.

Hogan’s wife, Kathy, and their daughters hopped in a car to meet Hogan in San Antonio.

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“I honestly believe with the grace of God, the doctors and the HALO-Flight crew saved husband’s life,” said Kathy.

The Hogan’s are now HALO-Flight members and they encourage everyone to become a member by signing up at www.haloflight.org Covered members pay an annual fee and are not charged out of pocket expenses for HALO-Flight transportation in the event that it is deemed medically necessary. The average cost of an emergency helicopter transport exceeds $15,000. As a HALO-Flight Guardian member, if you or your dependents require service, the bill is sent to your insurance company and is accepted as full payment. If you don’t have insurance and you’re a member, you will not receive a bill.

Kathy explains that the annual fee is worth the comfort of knowing that if something were to happen again, they would receive air ambulance services without the hefty bill.

According to Hogan, he was

never a believer in the saying, “If it’s your time to go, it’s your time.” However, after his near death experience he believes that he survived for a reason and he’s still trying to figure out that reason.

Kathy thinks her husband survived so he can tell people his story. She believes that it’s his duty to let people know that with the right help, family, doctors and rehab, you can get past something as big as this. She goes on to say no one should ever give up.

Two and a half years after Hogan’s diagnosis, he is still active and attends physical therapy twice a week.

Halo-Flight For More Information Visit:

www.haloflight.org HALO-Flight’s mission is to provide emergency medical transport for severely ill or injured people. The nonprofit organization began air ambulance services back in 1987. HALO-Flight was created with the idea of providing the fastest and safest emergency transportation in the South Texas area.

“Knowing that my life could’ve been taken October 2, 2011, I Words: Krystal Villarreal wake up and appreciate each Photos: Rachel Durrent day,” said Hogan. “My advice to others is to enjoy every moment, enjoy your kids and enjoy your wife because you never know what could happen.”

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

BE A BETTER LISTENER

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Proudly serving The Coastal Bend for all of your water treatment needs.

Call: (361) 814-8140 for a complimentary water analysis.

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.

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

Mutual Funds* IRA’S* / Roth IRA’s* Retirement Plan Rollovers* Stocks* / Bonds* / Options*

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

529 Plans - College Savings Plans* Annuities, Life Insurance LongLong-Term Care, Disability - Personal Income Protection Tax Preparation & Planning Notary Services Bookkeeping / Payroll Services *

Bert W. Raglin, EA

Enrolled to Practice Before the IRS Investment Advisor Representative (IAR) Advisory Consultant

Office 361.992.7053 Cell 361.834.9534 www.bwrtaxservice.com 6500 SPID Suite 11 Corpus Christi, TX 78412 *Bert Raglin, Registered Representative, Securities 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,

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Help us save lives.

Donate today!

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

www.haloflight.org | 361.265.0509

2014

COASTAL BEND MEDICAL GUIDE A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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Radiology Associates With “The Pink Dream Team”

Radiology Associates is a group of 17 Board Certified Radiologists with musculoskeletal, neuroradiology, women’s imaging and nuclear medicine/P.E.T training.

We provide a full range of outpatient imaging services including: • Complete certified mammography facilities at all locations • The first and most experienced 3D tomography mammogram providers in the Coastal Bend • Same day/next day availability for most scheduled exams • Same day reports to referring physician (in most cases) • Patient portal available for all patients • 5 convenient locations including two offices in Corpus Christi as well as Calallen, Portland and Alice • Saturday and evening appointments

For appointments, call (361) 887-7000 www.xraydocs.com

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(361)[the 887-7000 lifestyle magazine www.xraydocs.com of the coastal bend}

Radiology Associates’ Pink Dream Team Specializes In Being A Girl’s Best Friend Coastal Bend residents have been turning to Radiology Associates - and its signature blue triangular branding - for more than 70 years for a wide variety of imaging needs.

But these days, it’s the company’s mammography services that have become their pink calling card.

“From the very beginning, we strove to put as much expertise and thought into our mammography services as possible.

We wanted our program to stand out and make women confident and comfortable,” says Dr. Kenneth Cook, Radiologist and Chairman of Women’s Imaging at Radiology Associates.

As a physician-owned business, Radiology Associates has 17 board-certified radiologists on staff, but five truly “think pink” day in and day out. They are affectionately known as “The Pink Dream Team.”

“We put five amazing physicians together who are really, really interested in women’s services and mammography, and let them do quite a bit of it. And they do it extremely well,” says Cook.

Team” in getting the job done.

Radiology Associates converted to all-digital imaging after a $2.5 million state-of-theart investment in 2007. In early 2014, the company was the first imaging provider in the area to add three-dimensional mammography, the latest advancement in breast cancer detection in more than 30 years, to its arsenal. The revolutionary screening and diagnostic tool – also called tomosynthesis - creates a 3D reconstruction of the breast into one-millimeter slices.

“The breast is a three-dimensional object composed primarily of tissue, fat, blood vessels and ducts – all of which can overlap in a single image causing confusion and potentially causing small breast cancers to be missed. Overlapping normal tissue may also appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks or false alarms, which are stressful for patients,” says Cook.

Three-dimensional mammography allows radiologists to review the reconstruction one thin slice at a time - almost like turning the pages of a book.

“This extraordinary 3D technology allows us to look through tissue seeing details inside the breast like never before. There is less chance for cancer to hide,” says Cook.

“Reading mammograms requires specialized expertise and extreme attention to detail, and studies have shown that physicians who read more mammography images read them better,” comments Cook of the 30,000 mammograms the team reads annually.

Since unveiling tomosynthesis, Radiology Associates has seen a consistent uptick in 3D requests and appointments each and every month. In fact, the company added a second 3D mammography machine this past August to accommodate the volume.

An ongoing company priority to acquire cutting-edge advancements in equipment and techniques assists “The Pink Dream

“The immediate response to three dimensional mammography from the referring medical community, as well as the general

public, has been amazing, and we fully expect continued growth as more and more people learn about this new technology,” says Cook.

Cook mentions other special nuances women will encounter at Radiology Associates, making an otherwise “not-so-fun” medical procedure as comfortable as possible. A personal concierge ensures that patients are comforted and informed. Private changing rooms and cotton robes, instead of flimsy hospital gowns, help make the experience more palatable.

In addition, cost is often a deterrent for getting an annual exam. So Radiology Associates created unique mammography gift cards. Friends and family are able to purchase a gift card for all of the women in their lives.

“Our women’s imaging services are unlike any other in the area, and you know it the minute you walk through the door,” says Cook of “The Pink Dream Team” and their diverse and thorough efforts.

In addition to mammography services, Radiology Associates offers services and experience in: • MRI •

Computed Tomography (CT)

•

Positron Emission

Tomography (PET)

•

Nuclear Medicine Exams

•

Bone Density Exams (DEXA)

• Ultrasounds • X-Rays

5 Convenient Locations www.xraydocs.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Dr. Javier Alonso MD, PhD Services: • Microsclerotherapy (Spider Veins) • Endovenous Therapy (Varicose Veins) • Facial Telangiectasias • Ambulatory Phlebectomy • Vascular Surgery

Dr. Alonso is fellowship trained and board certified in cardiovascular surgery and general surgery. He has dedicated his life to improving blood flow in arteries and veins throughout the body. As a pioneer in the treatment of venous insufficiency, Dr. Alonso uses minimally invasive techniques to treat varicose veins. He completed his board certification in general surgery at the University of Missouri, and his cardiothoracic board certification at the University of California-San Diego.

Dr. Alonso has been treating patients with vein problems for more than 20 years, since earning his medical degree from the University of Navarra School of Medicine in 1982. He is the founder of Texas Vein & Vascular, board certified in general surgery, and fellowship trained and board certified in cardiothoracic surgery.

“We try to help in every possible way in terms of the vein treatments.

We treat all the different stages of vein disease. Most treatments are covered by insurance, with the exception of spider veins that are considered cosmetic and treated with cosmetic sclerotherapy.” TVV MediSpa opened as a complement to Texas Vein & Vascular. Many patients who come in for vein problems are also concerned with their overall physical appearance. Dr. Alonso oversees the experienced medispa staff upstairs in the TVV building.

“I want to help my patients feel better and overcome their symptoms, and that includes getting rid of painful and unsightly varicose veins.

It ultimately improves their quality of life and helps them feel much better about themselves,” says Dr. Alonso.

(361) 991-6611

www.texasveinandvascular.com

Vanishing Varicose Veins Vein disease occurs in both men and women.

It’s more prevalent in women, and in part it has to do with hormone issues and pregnancies. Men tend to have more severe stages of disease because they typically wait longer before seeking treatment.

Signs of venous disease include significant pain in the legs, more by the end of the day, heaviness and swelling of the lower extremities and the presence of varicose veins. A major symptom is what many refer to as restless legs; often at night patients will wake up feeling like their legs are not comfortable.

Restless leg syndrome in many patients is associated with venous disease. If venous problems go untreated, they can cause more serious issues in particular hyperpigmentation and potentially bleeding varicose veins, ulcers, and thrombosis. “Venous Ultrasound really revolutionized vein treatment. Approximately 10 years ago, the only vein treatment we had available was vein stripping; a surgical procedure that involved multiple cuts in the legs with a long recovery time.

Now we can accomplish outpatient surgery in the office with better results and no down time. Patients can return to their regular activities right away,” says Dr. Alonso.

Endovenous Therapy The Closure procedure is a relatively new method used to treat varicose veins. The traditional way to treat this situation was with a vein stripping. The Closure procedure has basically made vein stripping an antiquated procedure. The Closure procedure closes down and seals off the insufficient vein, effectively removing it from the circulation without removing it from the body. The procedure is quick, minimally invasive, and leaves no scar. It has a short and relatively pain-free post-operative recovery period, and is performed under local anesthesia in the doctor’s office at Texas Vein & Vascular. The treatment itself normally takes less than half an hour.

There are two basic types of procedures; one is called VNUS Closure and the other is called ELVS OR ELVT. The main difference between these two types of procedures is the type of energy that is used to heat the catheter tip.

Benefits and Expected Results •

A simple procedure

•

Performed under local anesthesia in the doctor’s office

•

Minimally invasive, minimal risk of scarring or postoperative infection

•

Less than half an hour treatment time

•

Rapid recovery with reduced post-operative pain

•

Normal activities can be resumed immediately

•

Excellent clinical and cosmetic results

Microsclerotherapy Microsclerotherapy is a technique which was developed in the 1950s and 60s to treat spider veins. It evolved out of doctors’ experience with Compression Sclerotherapy, with which it shares many similarities. It involves the use of an extremely fine needle to inject a tiny amount of a dilute solution (sclerosant) directly into the spider veins.

The solution causes the lining of the vein to swell, eventually sealing off the blood vessels and preventing blood flow. At Texas Vein & Vascular, we use FDA approved sclerosants that are virtually painless and effective.

Prior to treatment, a complete medical history is taken and a thorough examination made in order to determine, among other things, how long the problem has existed, whether there are any ongoing causative factors, and if there are any associated symptoms.

Benefits and Expected Results: •

Gets rid of unsightly spider veins

•

Normalized skin blood flow

•

No incisions, no scars

•

Does not interfere with normal activities

•

Safe, virtually painless, in-office treatment

•

Walk-In to Walk-Out time is typically 30 minutes

5242 Holly Rd. Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Dr. Lloyd Stegemann, MD, FACS, FASMBS

Specialties: • Medical Assisted Weight Loss

5826 Esplanade Dr. Suite 102

• Surgical Weight Loss • Metabolic Testing

361.500.2898

• Nutritionist Services

www.betterweighcenter.com

A graduate of Carroll High School in Corpus Christi, Dr. Lloyd Stegemann returned to his hometown in 2011 to deliver state of the art weight loss surgery to Coastal bend residents. Dr. Stegemann completed his medical training at the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston followed by a surgical residency in San Antonio.

Over the past decade, Dr. Stegemann has made a significant contribution to the field of weight loss surgery in Texas.

Dr. Stegemann has a significant operative experience here in Texas and internationally. The Surgical Review Corporation designated him as a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence Surgeon. Dr. Stegemann is a tireless advocate for promoting weight

• VO2 testing (Heart Rate)

education, increasing access to obesity treatments and ending obesity discrimination. He stays active in the local community, serving as this year’s chair for the health fair organized by the medical society and sponsoring healthy events in the area. He hopes to create a healthier community for the Coastal Bend, enabling everyone to live a healthier lifestyle.

address all of the issues associated with weight gain. Depending on someone’s needs, we can guide them in the right direction,” says Dr. Stegemann

Offering both medical and surgical weight loss programs, The Better Weigh Center bases all they do in science – it’s what sets them apart from most weight loss programs. Everything is research based and tailored to the individual.

“I truly have the greatest job in the world.

I get to help people return to the healthier life they deserve: A life that is not defined by their weight. I hope you will give us a call and let us help you get back to the healthier life you deserve,” says Dr. Stegemann.

“Our programs involve nutrition, behavioral health and exercise personnel. We

361.500.2898

On the surgery side, they offer all forms of weight loss surgery: Gastric Bypass, Adjustable Gastric Band, Sleeve Gastrectomy.

And the surgeries are performed right here in Corpus Christi.

www.betterweighcenter.com

Your Weight Matters

health. It also gives you some great information about how to talk to you your physician When should someone consider surgical weight loss?

With Dr. Lloyd Stegemann

When should someone consider surgical weight loss?

Over the past 20 years, there has been a significantly worsening weight problem in the United States. Millions of people are suffering from the disease of obesity. Carrying extra weight is a challenge, often causing social isolation and general unhappiness.

More importantly, it creates many health issues. Diabetes, just one of these health issues, is rampant in the Coastal Bend. The good news is that even modest amounts of weight loss can lead to substantial improvements in health.

What are some common health risks associated with obesity?

•

High Blood Pressure

•

Diabetes

•

Heart Disease

•

Sleep Apnea

•

Several forms of Cancer

•

Early Death

Surgery needs to be considered when someone is carrying a significant amount of extra weight (usually 70 pounds or more).

Unfortunately for people with severe obesity the chance of getting the weight off with more conservative measures like diet and exercise is very low.

Creating a Plan Dr. Stegemann offers patients both medical weight loss and surgical weight loss tailored to what the patient is trying to achieve.

How can you determine the best path for me?

Detecting the Problem You should always know your weight and how that weight impacts on your health. If you know you are at an unhealthy weight and want to get to a better weight, there are many options available.

How can someone get a health assessment regarding their current weight?

I always recommend people go to a website called yourweightmatters.org. There’s a link called “Take the Challenge”. It will calculate your BMI (body mass index) and let you know how that weight may be affecting your

Once we know your weight, medical conditions, and goals we can determine whether medical or surgical help is the best treatment course. All of our programs involve dietary, behavioral, and activity suggestions to give you the best chance at long term success.

Telling someone to “eat less and exercise more” without providing the necessary tools to do that is doomed for failure. We base everything we do in science and it can be very, very effective..

What is VO2 testing and how does it help?

Our heart rate during exercise lets us know if our body is burning fat or sugar to energize the workout. If you want to lose weight then you want your body burning fat during exercise. The heart rate zones on the machines found in gyms generally don’t give a heavier person an accurate reading. Because of this, they often get frustrated that they “aren’t losing weight despite exercising”. By doing

VO2 testing, we can determine precise heart rate zones and exercise plans that maximize the fat burned during each workout. Our goal with VO2 testing is to help people exercise smarter.

How will my diet change?

Our metabolic testing can tell us how many calories a person needs per day. Once we know that number, we can then create a meal plan that is specific to that individual’s metabolism. My goal is always to give somebody as much food as we can within their plan. Our nutritionists make these eating plans based on what the person likes to eat and their schedule. We try to create sustainable eating patterns and fit all types of food into the eating plans.

Importance of Local Care Dr. Stegemann is passionate about the importance of lifestyle change and follow up. He has helped hundreds of patients achieve long-term success.

Why is it important?

We live, work, and operate here in Corpus Christi so we’re always available if issues come up. Because obesity is a chronic disease, we know follow up is essential to long term maintenance of weight loss. We try to make it as easy as possible for people to utilize the resources of our clinic. We know if people don’t change the way they eat, think, and move then no weight loss intervention will work. This is especially true after weight loss surgery. Several studies have shown that the further you are from your weight loss center the less likely you are to keep the weight off. Before we got here patients had to go to San Antonio or Victoria to get their weight loss surgery and that was unfortunate because they often didn’t go back to get the follow up care they needed. Now there’s a Better Weigh!

5826 Esplanade Dr. Suite 102, Corpus Christi, TX 48414

Specialties: • General Dermatology • Treatment of Skin Cancer • Surgery of Skin Cancer

Carmen Casas, M.D.

• Treatment of Acne • Skin Rejuvenation

361.994-1001

• Cosmetic Injections (Botox Cosmetic®, Juvederm XC ® and Vouluma XC®)

5756 S. Staples St. Ste. J1 (Staples & Holly)

Born and raised in Colombia, South America. Dr. Casas attended Medical School at the Universidad Javeriana in Bogotá, Colombia. After moving to the states, she completed her dermatology training and residency at the University of Chicago. With over 30 years of experience in her field, Dr. Casas specializes in the treatment of skin cancer. She has performed many surgical procedures on all types and stages of skin cancer, including Basal Cell, Squamous Cell, Early Malignant Melanoma and removal of moles and other skin growths.

Dr. Casas is known for providing excellent personal care to each patient, spending enough time with her patients to under-

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stand them and the nature of their skin problems. Building a strong relationship with her patients is a priority. Some of her patients have continued with her for 30 years and now bring their children into her practice. She loves being there for her patients from the first onset of acne, solving their skin problems and equipping them with the knowledge they need to maintain healthy, beautiful skin.

As a part of her practice, Dr. Casas offers cosmetic skin procedures and skin rejuvenation treatments. Their services include fillers and laser treatments to keep skin looking youthful and vibrant.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

361.994.1001

5756 S. Staples St. Ste. J1 (Stapels & Holly)

Did you know?

Carla Hoffman

•

For every 1 person you see going into a public building with a physical disability, 10 just went through with hearing loss, the “invisible disability”

•

Once someone realizes they have a hearing problem, it takes, on average, 7-10 years for them to seek help.

•

Ear canals are like thumbprints, no two ear canals are the same.

•

The World Health Organization recommends anyone over the age of 12 should get their hearing checked annually.

•

You can now connect your hearing aids to the Bluetooth on your phone and TV to de;over clear, perfect sound.

With Hearing Aid Company of Texas (1-888) 334-500

HearingAidCompany.com 6468 Holly Road (South Side) & 13310 Leopard Street, Suite 22 (Calallen)Holly)

Carla joined the Hearing Aid Company of Texas in 1999. She earned her BA from the College of Saint Benedict in Minnesota and has earned credits toward her MBA at Texas A&M. She obtained her Certification in the Fitting and Dispensing of Hearing Instruments in 2000 and her Board Certification in 2003. Since joining the Hearing Aid Company of Texas team, she has become an expert programmer of digital hearing instruments.

In 2007, she was elected to the Texas Hearing Aid Association by her peers and served on the Executive Board as Secretary. In 2010, Governor Rick Perry appointed her to serve a six year term on the State Licensing Committee, a distinguished honor in her field.

In addition to serving the public of Texas, she serves on the Board for

the Deaf and Hard of Hearing as past chair, ensuring the deaf and hard of hearing of South Texas have a voice. Her passion is educating our community about hearing loss and finding solutions to communication gaps.

“There’s a sign in the front that says ‘Enter as strangers, leave as friends’ That’s what represents our core values. We care passionately and deeply about our patients and their lives,” says Carla.

Hearing loss is really stressful. It wreaks havoc on communication and relationships. “I realize after 15 years of practicing that our job is extremely important for so many reasons. When people come to us, they need help,” says Carla. “. Our goal is to get people engaged in life again, so they can connect with those around them.”

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

1.888.334.5000 www.hearingaidcompany.com

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47

Roxanna Villarreal Doucet, MD, FACOG Services:

• Full Service Medical Practice specializing in Obstetrics and Gynecology • Laser Vein Therapy • Microneedling • Microdermabrasion • Signature Facials •

Cosmetic Injections (Botox Cosmetic®, Juvederm XC ® and Vouluma XC®)

• Fractional Laser Resurfacing

Dr. “Roxie” Doucet started her medical career with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from The University of Texas at Austin. She received her Medical Degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where she completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2001. She joined the prestigious Coastal Bend Women’s Center OB/Gyn Group in 2001 practicing at the Corpus Christi Medical Center and now appreciates and enjoys a thriving OB/GYN practice. She is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and treats a full spectrum of female issues, including adolescent care, pregnancy menopause management and urinary incontinence. She has advanced expertise in minimally invasive surgery, including laparoscopy and the use of the Da Vinci Robot and operative hysteroscopy.

She performs many conservative surgical therapies, such as endometrial ablation and Essure tubal occlusion. Some of which are offered in the office.

Dr. Doucet’s passion for health and wellness inspired her to become one of the first physicians in the Coastal Bend to introduce aesthetic procedures into her practice nearly a decade ago. In 2012, she formed Doucet Med Spa as a separate business operating independently from her medical practice

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(although conveniently located right inside her medical office). She was ahead of the trend physician-directed aesthetic procedures and has had a full-fledged medical spa with three expert and experienced Clinical Estheticians. Doucet Med Spa has an array of the latest corrective therapies and skin care products. They specialize in corrective treatments for sun damage, brown spots, wrinkles, acne, redness, capillaries and healthy skin maintenance using lasers, injectibles, chemical peels, microneedling, microdermabrasions and facials.

Dr. “Roxie” Doucet might just be super woman in disguise. She works out nearly every morning before delivering babies, performing surgery and taking care of her OB/GYN patients by day. In the afternoon she oversees and performs procedures in the medical spa. At the end of the day she switches her hat and enjoys her four children and husband of 20 years. “I just love what I do. I feel like I have the best of both worlds.

To truly help women with both their medical and physical concerns is a privilege. If a woman feels satisfied after her experience at both my medical practice and spa, then I know I have treated the whole woman with both health and beauty.”

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend} 7121 S.P.I.D. Suite 206 361.400.2290 www.doucetmedspa.com

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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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49

Making Strides Lamarr Graves is cancer-free 30 years this month. She was diagnosed with breast cancer on Oct. 15, 1984 – when not nearly as much was known about the disease as is known today.

Ask any of these Corpus Christi women about their fight against breast cancer and the response they give might come as a surprise. All active volunteers in area organizations and support groups for breast cancer patients and survivors, Graves, Ferrell and Lutz agree that breast cancer was an eye-opening, almost blessing-in-disguise kind of experience.

Survivor Candice Ferrell is celebrating 10 years cancer-free and Catherine Lutz is in her fourth cancer-free year. “You don’t want to think it could happen to you, especially when you’re knee-deep in living your life, working and raising a family,” Lutz said. “Then it happened, and it was anything but easy, but it taught me to celebrate life.”

Lutz was diagnosed in 2010 at age 39.

As a wife and mother of two young children, she knew she had no choice but

to fight. An early diagnosis following a suspicious mammogram ultimately led to a mastectomy. Then she chose to go to San Antonio for a series of reconstructive surgeries on her right breast.

Lutz overcame breast cancer, but it was the depression that settled in months after her treatment that she struggled with most. “It was like survivor guilt,” she said. “I was treated and I was going to be okay, and it was like everyone had moved on. But I couldn’t.” Determined to beat the emotional and mental battle her experience had become, Lutz attempted to research depression and breast cancer patients. The results were disappointing, she said. “There’s so much out there about the cancer itself, treatment options, the measures women can take to be proactive against the disease,” Lutz said. “When you Google breast cancer, you never see

Words: Brittney Richerson 50

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For more information, visit makingstrides.acsevents.org or contact the ACS in Corpus Christi at (361) 806-5507.

anything about depression.”

Much of her emotional struggle stemmed from having to talk about her cancer with her then 3and 9-year old children. Lutz said she still gets a lump in her throat when she thinks about having to tell her 3-year-old daughter, who in turn asked her, “Mommy, are your boobies broken?” “The perfect words don’t exist to tell a child what is happening,” Lutz said.

Inspired to “own” her situation, Lutz wrote and published a children’s book, Mommy, Are Your Boobies Broken? which now is available in the Driscoll Children’s Hospital gift shop, at Hamlin Pharmacy and Fountain, Barnes & Noble and online at Amazon.com.

Another significant step toward recovery Lutz made was her decision to reach out to the American Cancer Society and getting involved as a volunteer. “The power of being around other survivors is often underestimated,” she said.

“There’s something magical that happens when survivors meet. You think you are helping others, but they’re really helping you.”

Lutz isn’t the only survivor who feels this way. Take Lamarr “Volunteer” Graves, who happily gives her phone number to cancer patients and survivors alike, just to let them know she cares and is there to talk to, if needed. “When I was diagnosed in the ‘80s, there was still this stigma about breast cancer,” Graves said. “I had my doctor to discuss treatment with, my priest to pray with me, my husband to love me. But nobody was stepping up and talking about breast cancer.” The substitute teacher filling in for Graves at Windsor Park Elementary while she was out for treatment was a breast cancer survivor. She and the American Cancer Society support group Graves joined helped her through her fight. “I never want a woman fighting breast cancer to feel alone the way I did,” Graves said. She said upon returning to her fourth grade class, her students may not have fully understood why she was out sick for so long, but they were eager to help her carry her books and their

parents would send them with food, cards, flowers and one even gave her a tree. “That’s how we can help – just by being there and being kind,” Graves said.

She earned the nickname “Volunteer” through her efforts over the past 30 years to reach out to women fighting breast cancer.

Whether she is handing out her phone number, working with the First Friday free mammogram screening program, or participating in an ACS fundraising event like their annual Making Strides 5k walk, Graves can be found in what she calls her “little niche,” happily helping others.

“Cancer was a blessing,” Graves said. “I never thought I’d say that.”

Candice Ferrell holds a similar opinion of her fight to survive breast cancer, though her journey, like every woman’s, was unique from Graves’ and Lutz’s. Much like Graves and Lutz, Ferrell agrees breast cancer has been the most “eye-opening” experience of her life.

“Breast cancer made me more compassionate, open and giving,” she said. “It opened doors, whether or not I wanted them open, and led me to so many life-changing experiences and people. I’ve learned how to live each day to its fullest potential.”

Only five years into her second marriage, Ferrell was 47-years-old when she received her diagnosis.

She knows that if a mammogram at her annual check up had not revealed the cancer, she probably would not be alive today.

Having worked at the Orthopedic Center of Corpus Christi for 30 years, Ferrell was surrounded by a supportive medical staff and was fairly savvy about treatment options. Her husband stood by her side as she made aggressive decisions about how to approach overcoming cancer. “I went to multiple doctors before I found the right fit for me and my plan for my life,” Ferrell said. Her advice to cancer patients is to never hesitate about getting a second opinion if they are wary

of a doctor’s opinion.

“Doctors are there to save lives, but if you don’t feel like the opinion one doctor has given you, don’t be afraid to get another opinion and go with what makes you most comfortable,” Ferrell said. “Follow your heart and fight for your life.” Now in her fourth year of remission, Ferrell actively volunteers with the ACS alongside her fellow survivors. She wants to help others, because though she sees the progress made in breast cancer awareness and research, she knows there still are leaps and bounds that need to be made.

“I’ve lost several good friends to the fight,” Ferrell said. “It has to stop and until it does, I’ll do what I can to help.”

Ferrell, Graves and Lutz will be at the ACS’s sixth annual Making Strides of Corpus Christi noncompetitive 5k walk on Oct. 18, alongside hundreds, if not thousands, of their fellow survivors. Registration is at 7:30 a.m. at the Water Gardens, 1700 N. Chaparral Street.

While the event is a fundraiser and aims to raise money for cancer research and patient services, there is no registration fee for teams or individuals, said Kayla Hanson, ACS community events specialist. “We encourage people to set fundraising goals, because all the money goes toward efforts against breast cancer in your own communities,” Hanson said.

Last year, Corpus Christi’s Making Strides event drew more than 11,000 walkers from survivors and supporters from across South Texas. The walk raised about $375,000, Hanson said. Making Strides is the only ACS Corpus Christi event tailored to a specific type of cancer. “Breast cancer is the primary diagnosis in Corpus Christi,” Hanson said. “It’s a very personal issue to many.”She encourages participants in the walk to wear plenty of pink – the official color of breast cancer awareness.

Walkers also are welcome to be creative, wear costumes and designate fun team names.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Catherine Lutz

Lamarr Graves

Lamarr Graves is ca

Lamarr Graves is ca Candace Ferrell

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(WEDDING DAY)

Two Sisters. Two Weddings.

Two Months Apart.

Little Sister

Big Sister

Thomas Coplin, Jr.

Antonetz

Date: July 26, 2014 Location: River

Date: May 17, 2014 Location: Yorktown

Bride: Brooke Ellen Miller Groom: Mark

Bride: Sara  Miller Groom: Nathan

Hills Baptist Church Baptist Church Photos: Heidi Rae Photography

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How did he propose?

Brooke - I was told my Christmas present was a picnic that we were going to have on Christmas Eve. It was a beautiful day when we went and made a nice place to sit at a park on ocean drive. After setting out the blankets, before we got out our lunch he got out the ring and asked me to marry him. It was beautiful and romantic.

Sisterly Advice: What parts of the planning process were done together?

Brooke - We were each other’s maid of honor and we each tried our best to fulfill that role every step of the way. Sara had the creative perspective and I planned everything out, so we worked well together. We loved discussing ideas as we planned the perfect wedding for each sister. We went on many crafting trips to the store and we each worked to help the other create the vision she had planned. We tried to keep things like dress shopping separate and spent time just looking at things for one wedding at a time.

Sara - Every year my family goes camping for Thanksgiving.

The previous year Nate had surprised me by decorating the outside of my house with Christmas lights while I was out of town. This past Thanksgiving I was not really expecting him to do it again since he had a busy holiday weekend with his family, or so I thought. My family had returned home from our trip, and Nate met us for dinner and took me home.

When we drove up to my house it was dark, with no lights. I turned to get out of the car and when I turned back around the house was lit up with Christmas decoration and “Marry Me” was written in lights. I was completely surprised! Nate worked with my roommate and other friends to hide in the house, turning the lights on after we arrived. It was perfect.

In what way was Sara’s wedding a helping hand to yours?

What was the biggest difference between the two weddings?

Sara - Brooke and I did a lot of vendor research together.

We found our photographer at the Wedding Fair. We love Heidi, her professionalism and artistic style was perfect for both weddings. Nate and I knew we wanted Hester’s to cater our brunch, but it worked out perfectly for Brooke and Mark as well. We shared a florist, Keeton Floral Designs, and other rental companies.

Because we had already built relationships with these vendors it was easier to do two weddings at the same time.

Brooke - We had a lot of the same elements, but we did it with our own style. Throughout the planning we noticed that we liked some of the same things, but sometimes it was completely different. I think the overall difference was the execution of the decorations and design of each wedding.

We both wanted an early or afternoon church wedding that was a time of fellowship with family and friends and that ultimately honored God.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

What was your favorite part of Brooke’s big day?

Sara - Brooke thought of everything. Her reception was so detailed, it was a perfect afternoon. But there was this moment at the reception, Nate and I were sitting at the table, and I looked across the room and saw Brooke and Mark hand in hand mingling with their guests, and they were glowing. I thought to myself, “Wow, my baby sister is married!” Even though we helped each other plan, I don’t think it hit me until that moment. It was a beautiful day that I will not soon forget.

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(HOMES) The Belle of Fulton Beach Rd.

WORDS: JUSTIN BUTTS PHOTO: RACHEL DURRENT

B Bob and Linda Bell built their dream house on a rise overlooking Aransas Bay. They have wanted a home along Fulton Beach Road since first visit-

ing Rockport in the early 1970s. Finally, after years of looking, the perfect property opened in 2009.

They built their home in the Mediterranean/Tuscan style. The outer walls

of the 4,500 ft house are stucco and the roof is red Spanish tile. The house is surrounded by 500-year-old live oak trees on a nearly four-acre lot.

The living room is accented by tremendous cedar beams, which line the

variable-height ceiling. The stained beams were dragged behind a truck and beaten with hammers to achieve their aged and rugged look.

There are many windows and the rooms are filled with light. Movement flows naturally through the interior as each room opens to the next through grand archways.

The kitchen is the center of the house with enormous granite counter tops and plenty of space for the Bell’s children and grandchildren. The kitchen ceiling features a recessed dome finished in Venetian plaster that was buffed until it took on the look of glass.

Bob and Linda were antique dealers and pawn brokers, and they picked up many interesting artifacts over the years. The gentleman’s study features a stuffed walrus, an elk head, elephant tusks, a collection of antique swords and spears, and an Italian desk from the mid-nineteenth century.

The Bells actually designed the rooms around their furniture. The four bedrooms with their private baths are anchored with antique beds and

bureaus. There are 30 wrought-iron or gilded chandeliers throughout the house and a grandfather clock from 1850s France.

The Bells are art collectors, as well. Thirty original paintings by local

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55

artists hang on the walls of

and look out across palm trees,

their home, including a work

fishing piers, and the clear blue

by Estelle Stair. Local artist

water of Aransas Bay. A figure

Mardi Pena painted an ornate

of a woman, in the style of the

great blue heron directly onto

Statue of Liberty, stands over

the fireplace in the master

the pool, and at night her lamp

bedroom and carried the motif

illuminates the wind-driven

to the ceiling of the bath.

branches of the oak trees.

The walnut and travertine

“We designed this house our-

tile floors are accented with

selves,” Bob said, “but we could

Potosi Mission tile, and the

see God’s hand in every detail

Diamond plaster finish of the

of this property, from purchas-

walls reflects the color of the

ing to building to finishing.”

Mission tiles in a kaleidoscope of blue, scarlet, and gold. Bob says the finish of the walls, with their light and dark patterns, is the most striking feature of the house.

The pool is hidden from the road, but you can sit in the pool 56

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“We built our home,” he said, “but we had supernatural help.”

w

www.villacostagroup.com JESSICA BATES 361.385.0075 AMY BROWN 361.779.0177 BECCA SPENST 361.834.6555

L ove W h e re Yo u L i ve

The Bells’ overlook the Aransas Bay from their porch.

SCARY OLD HOMES If you live in an older home, there may be good reason to be scared this October.

The Zombies, Ghosts and Vampires may be closer than you think! When you spend too much of your free time taking care of your lawn, get scared to open your electric bill, or become obsessive about keeping the sunlight out of your home, it may be time to check out a Coastal Bend GreenBuilt (CBGB) home.

When you spend your evenings slugging around your yard with a hose watering your grass, you look like a zombie. A Green Built home has many options like xeriscape landscaping and rain water barrels that make keeping your lawn picture perfect a breeze, so you can spend your evenings relaxing in an Adirondack chair enjoying your yard instead of tromping around moving the sprinkler over and over again.

Bart Braselton Braselton Homes

Are you tired of turning white as a ghost when you open your electric bill? A Coastal Bend GreenBuilt home can save you thousands of dollars in energy costs, so you don’t lose all color in your face and extremities looking at your electric bill.

With energy efficient items like double-pane insulated vinyl frame windows, a 15 SEER Heat Pump air conditioning system, Cool-Ply roof decking and Guaranteed Air Conditioning Bills as standard features, your electric bills can be cut by as much as 50% compared to that old, scary home.

Without a Coastal Bend Green Built home, like a Vampire, you are tempted to put heavy curtains over all your windows to keep the sun out so your house stays cool during the long, South Texas summers. This kind of living may makes your neighbors wonder if you are one of the Undead, who must avoid the sun! But a GreenBuilt home uses advanced air conditioning and venting technology to keep your attic cool and the air circulating properly throughout your home. And with our standard Low-E double paned windows, you can let the sun shine in but keep the heat out. With cool air, and natural light in your home all day, you can dispel any of those nasty Vampire rumors.

Double Pane Insulated Windows and Vinyl Blinds Keep You Safe and Keep Prying Zombie Eyes From Seeing You!!

This October, consider what you home makes you feel like…

Are you a Zombie, a Ghost, or a Vampire?

If you find that you are any of these creatures, perhaps,then you should consider the benefits of a Coastal Bend GreenBuilt home. CBGB Homes are easy to find; there are many CBGB homes across the Coastal Bend. And ,at Braselton Home, we have six fully furnished model homes (with a seventh under construction!!) available for you to tour any time, seven days a week.

So, instead of being scared of your Old Home, why not be smiling like a JackO-Lantern this October with your new BraseltonBuilt Green Home. A New Home, built to the CBGB standards, can keep you smiling…. even on the scariest of nights.

See you in the neighborhood!

Bart Braselton

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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

B.L. Guess Lighting Co. Family owned and operated since 1947, B.L. Guess offers the most unique light fixtures in the Coastal Bend. One of their most popular features is lamp repair. Father and son, Chip and Rip Guess (top right) are passionate about what they do and it shines in their fixtures.

221 S. Staples , Corpus Christi, TX 361.882.3387 www.blguesslighting.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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59

(CUISINE) THE DISH

Molé Verde, Chile Rellenos, Tacos Dorados and Tacos Al Pastor (featured below) are just a few reasons to try out Molé. p.60

DINING GUIDE

Check out these great places to dine around the Coastal Bend or let us know your favorite at thebendmag.com! p.62

Molé

Bringing a taste of Central Mexico to the Coastal Bend 60

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Molé 6042 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78412 361.334.6081 MoleRestaurant.com

I

{Owners Edgar and Brooke Montes} f you never get the chance to visit the beautiful city of Querétaro, Mexico, just 45 minutes south of San Miguel de Allende, the next best thing is to visit one of Corpus Christi’s newest restaurants, Molé, right at the intersection of Airline and S.P.I.D. Molé brings a taste of Central Mexico to the local culinary scene. It’s a taste that runs deeper than their menu. The entire experience, from the decor to the preparation, is about sharing a cultural experience. Everyone loves “Tex-Mex,” including owners Brooke and Edgar Montes, but there is something unique and different offered at Molé that is sure to expand your understanding of Mexican cuisine.

The idea for Molé originated in Querétaro, Mexico. The Montes family has owned and operated El Portal in Querétaro since 1978. The concept in Mexico is to use fresh ingredients every single day.

“My mom has gone to the Mercado every single morning for 30 years where the local merchants sell fresh produce. In order to get the flavor and integrity of the food, we have to do it the same day. We never cook a big batch of anything to last a few days. We cook small batches, multiple times a day, nearly by the hour, to maintain the flavor. It’s a lot of labor, but it’s important,” says Edgar.

The Montes’ have more than 17 years of restaurant experience. Edgar grew up working in the family business from the age of 14. After moving to Houston for school, Edgar started his career opening new locations for Chilis, but he missed the food from his family’s restaurant.

“It was always a dream of mine to bring my mom’s cuisine here. It’s very unique. People fall in love with the flavor,” says Edgar.

Molé (Spanish, from Nahuatl mōlli, meaning “sauce”) is the generic name for a number of sauces used in Mexican cuisine. The Montes are famous for their Molé Verde, but also carry other traditional Molé sauces. Along with the Molé Verde, the Chile Rellenos, Tacos Dorados and Tacos Al Pastor are must haves.

The chairs and tables are from his home town in Mexico. They’re hand-carved and made from solid wood. Everything in Molé, from the lanterns to the mirrors, are from Mexico.

They wanted it to feel open and clean. They chose to decorate with color. The kitchen is open to view and guests can even sample food before ordering.

“Many people come in here expecting the traditional Tex-Mex and some people won’t open their minds to our cuisine, but when they do they feel like they can eat here one day, and their favorite Tex-Mex restaurant the next day and not feel like they had Mexican food two days in a row,” says Brooke

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61

DINING OUT Snoopy’s Pier $$

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

CORPUS CHRISTi

(361) 884-2739 Mon - Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Authentic New York Pizza

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

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

Vietnam Restaurant

Niko’s Steakhouse

$$$ 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

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$$ 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

Molé

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

Republic of Texas

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

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

Yardarm

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

Katz 21

$$$ 5702 Spohn Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 884-1221 Mon-Th: Lunch and Dinner Fri-Sat: Dinner Only

Thai Cottage $ 5830 McArdle Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 993-0777 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner Russos Coal Fired Italian Kitchen

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

Grimaldis

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

Sang’s Imperial Café $$ 4650 Corona Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 808-8881 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner Saltwater Grill

$$

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

2401 Cimarron Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (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

Tues-Sun: Lunch Only

Chartroom $$$

Seafood & spaghetti works

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

39 Mazatlan Drive Rockport, Texas 78382

(361) 790-2450

Tues - Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Latitude 28˚02’

$$$ 105 N Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-9009 Mon-Sun: 5pm until last table

PADRE ISLAND

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

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

Lisabella’s Bistro

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

Irie’s

$ 503 North Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-2310

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

o e of Central Mexic

Only the Freshest!

Entirely Homemade!

Truly Authentic Cuisine of

Mexi co

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

$$$ 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

(361) 334-6081

A T a st

Dragonfly

portland pep’s

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

6042 S. Padre Island Dr. @ Airline Gulfway Center

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

63

(FARM TO TABLE) PASTURED PORK CHOPS Words: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Durrent

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the bend magazine

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

I

n the Coastal Bend, we miss out on many of the classic symbols of fall: the crisp north wind; the woolen scarves and sweaters; the changing colors of the leaves.

To enjoy a taste of fall, we must assemble the ingredients ourselves. Butternut squash and pecans are a good place to start, and this might just be the easiest homemade pie you ever make.

Butternut squash and pecans have a long and colorful history in our area. Local Indians grew butternut squash extensively in their three sisters gardens, along with beans and maize. Butternut squash was a fall delicacy in the Coastal Bend a thousand years before Europeans arrived.

Pecans are native to Texas. The Nueces River literally means ‘the river of nuts,’ and the river got its name for the towering pecan trees that line its sandy banks.

Each year in October, when pecans were in season, thousands of Indians converged on the banks of the Guadalupe River for a great pecan festival. They sang songs, danced around their fires, and harvested and cooked endless quantities of pecans.

Butternut squash and pecans offer a refreshing change of pace from the overplayed pumpkin pie. And for a homemade pie, butternut squash is in many ways superior to pumpkin.

Butternut squash contains more sugar than pumpkin, so it is naturally sweeter. Butternut is richer in vitamin A than pumpkin, and is equally rich in flavonoids and B vitamins. And butternut squash is easier to grow in your own garden, to buy organic, or to find at the South Side or Downtown Farmers’ Markets.

Pecans are high in heart-healthy oleic acid, rich in vitamin E, and they are an excellent source of polyphenols. Pecans are also found to increase good cholesterol while lowering bad cholesterol.

We are not calling this homemade pie a low-fat treat, but compared to many of the desserts on the market, the health benefits of this one truly stand out. And when you taste a slice of this heavenly fall goodness, you may not begrudge the extra 20 minutes on the treadmill it will cost you.

For a unique taste of fall in The Bend, all you really need is this butternut squash pie and a good friend to share a piece with you.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

65

Butternut Squash Pie with Texas Pecan Streusel Serves 8-10 Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 55-60 minutes

Ingredients:

1 tsp cinnamon

1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

½ tsp ground nutmeg

1 stick unsalted butter, cold, diced

¼ tsp ground cloves

1/8 tsp salt 1 tbsp, plus 1 tsp sugar ¼ c cold water Filling: 3 lb butternut squash, roasted, skins removed 1 ¼ cup whipping cream 2 eggs

Directions: Preheat oven to 425°F. In a food processor, combine the first four ingredients of the pie crust. Pulse until chickpea sized bits are formed.

Slowly add the water and stop pulsing as soon as ingredients begin to come together. Form dough into a ball, cover with oiled cling wrap and place in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.

Combine the filling ingredients into the food processor bowl. Pulse until smooth (about 2 minutes), stopping to scrape the sides of the bowl on occasion.

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the bend magazine

2/3 cup brown sugar, packed

Pie crust:

¼ tsp ground ginger ¼ tsp fine salt Pecan Streusel: ¾ c pecans, roasted, chopped 2 tbsp brown sugar ¼ cup all-purpose flour ¼ tsp cinnamon 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cold, diced

streusel using your hands or a pastry blender, until crumbly and butter is well incorporated. Decrease cooking temperature to 350°F and cook for an additional 30 minutes, until filling is almost firm. Add streusel topping and cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and middle is set.

Nutrition Facts Serving size: 1/9th pie Amount per serving Calories

565 kcal

Remove dough from the refrigerator.

Sprinkle prep surface and rolling pin with a generous amount of flour.

Roll out dough until it forms an 11” round. Transfer to a 9” pie pan and fold extra dough under around the edges. Use your fingers to crimp the edges of the pie shell, or use a fork to make indentions along the crust.

Pour prepared filling into shell.

Total Fat

33 g

Sat fat

13 g

Bake for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, combine ingredients for pecan [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

trans fat Cholesterol

0g 56 mg

Carbohydrate 60 g

Sugar

22 g

Fiber

6g

Protein

8g

Variety is our spice New Orleans Muffaletta

Mediterranean Wrap

Chicken Pasta Primo

Manager’s Half-Sandwich Special

Wild Salmon-wich

Garden Fresh Salad Bar

And so much more... [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Taco Salad

Corpus Christi 1416 Airline / 361-992-4649 thebendmag.com 67 5325 Saratoga / 361-980-8300 jasonsdeli.com

TM