April 2017 by The Bend Magazine

BUC DAYS RODEO

SOUTH TEXAS RODEO CULTURE By: Alexa Alley

VITAMIN SEA BRAD STEPH, LOCAL SURFING LEGEND

LAS DOÃ&#x2018;AS DE LA CORTE DESIGNER JETTIE POWERS

By: Alexis De Leon

By: Sharla Wilkins

EDGE ON THE WATER'S

Discover our favorite coastal neighborhoods with sweeping water views.

2 The Bend

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Contents APRIL 2017 | The Neighborhood's Issue

Monthly | Departments

Around the Bend 18 Style 22 Currents 24 Conversation 26 5 Best 28 Giving Back

Features

Destinations 34 Local Discovery 36 Quick Trip

Health 60 Fitness 62 Be Well

Home & Garden 68 Open House 70 Spaces 73 Gardening

Out & About

88 Arts & Culture 90 Celebration 92 Date Book 94 Social Hour

Neighborhoods with a View

Cuisine

Las DoĂąas de la Corte

Buc Days Pro Rodeo

100 Farm to Table 105 Dining Guide 106 The Drink 108 The Dish

History 114 Looking Back Copyright ÂŠ 2017 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.

8 The Bend

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Distinctive Landscapes Start Here... Wondering where to start is where we love to start!

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         

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I C TAT T

NEW YEAR. NEW START.

NEW YOU!

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

CONTRIBUTORS: Justin & Kayla Butts Sharla Wilkins Jo Anne Howell Caroline Randall Freeman Alexa Alley Alexis De Leon Jinky Romero Jillian Becquet Jacqueline Gonzalez Alexis Mays Cissy Tabor

ART DIRECTOR: Will Bowling PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick MANAGING EDITOR: Whitney Noble AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT: Stefanie DeWaters

+ Comprehensive Consultations + Microblading + Feathering + Minimal Discomfort + Color Matching + Sanitary

TINA LAIN

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jason Page Gabriel Mancha Renèe C. Gage Susan Costa EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS:

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Rosana Knapick

jordan@thebendmag.com

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

MARKETING DESIGN: Jarred Schuetze

THE BEND OFFICE: 309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Durrent

Phone: 361.792.3606

SUBSCRIPTIONS:

Cosmetic Tattooer

by Pinnacle Tattoo

1041 Airline Road Corpus Christi, Tx 78412

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10 The Bend

What's your favorite waterview? #TBFavWaterView

On the Cover

Mark and Susan Costa purchased their dream home in Pelican Cove in August of 2015. With one of the best waterviews around, Susan takes the most breathtaking photos. Birds, boats, sunrises and sunsets - the Costas know the meaning of luxury waterfront living and don't take it for granted. Photo by: Susan Costa

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BUC DAYS RODEO

SOUTH TEXAS RODEO CULTURE By: Alexa Alley

APRIL 2017

pinnacletina@yahoo.com

thebendmag.com @thebendmag on Instagram and Twitter #CBLife

The Coastal Bend’s Lifestyle Magazine

GOLD DUST COSMETIC TATTOOING

CONNECT WITH US @

VOLUME 4/ISSUE 3

Licensed certified intradermal technician specializing in creating beautifully structured eyebrows. The art of microblading is an advanced brow embroidery technique utilized to create a fuller brow. Tina has over 10-years of experience in the tattooing industry with a strong eye for detail and a steady hand. Her talent and experience allows expert performance of her craft while ensuring the best quality in cosmetic tattooing for her clients.

THEBENDMAG.COM

VITAMIN SEA BRAD STEPH, LOCAL SURFING LEGEND

LAS DOÑAS DE LA CORTE DESIGNER JETTIE POWERS

By: Alexis De Leon

By: Sharla Wilkins

EDGE ON THE WATER'S

Discover our favorite coastal neighborhoods with sweeping water views.

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April | Staff Note

26TH ANNUAL

Halo•Flight

- Flights of Angels -

GOLF TOURNAMENT PRESENTED BY

May 1, 2017 Palmilla Beach Golf Club

258 Snapdragon Port Aransas, TX 78373

Four-Member Team Scrabble Best Ball Position

From the Desk of

Kaley Regas, Production Director Behind the scenes:

With any issue, there is always a bit of in-house cover controversy. Jordan and I are typically on opposite sides of the field on this one – with him always wanting to push his creative boundaries and me always wanting a beautiful cover for your coffee table. Our graphic designer, Will, usually starts pushing for a particular photo around the beginning of the month, and the battle begins. This month was different though. We were all pretty impartial to any ideas that were thrown on the cover – until our editor, Whitney, discovered these gorgeous photos from her real estate client, Susan Costa. The images are undeniably breathtaking, and embody some of the reasons why I am so proud to call The Coastal Bend home. The pinks in the photo are reminiscent of our 2014 September cover, where the sunset bled into a cotton field. There is so much beauty in our region, and I love getting to show it all off – from farmland to water view.

Person You Will Meet: My oldest and best friend, Alexa Gignac, was honored as a duchess for the Las Donas de la Corte in the 2012 Splendorous Court of Royal Palaces. At the time, I had no clue what that meant. All I knew was that it was incredibly important and I had to make sure I came down from college to attend. I’ll never forget sitting there wide eyed as I saw the girls take the stage in their indescribable dresses. In this issue, we’ll introduce you to Jettie Powers, the vision and the heart behind this year’s coronation gowns. It turns out, Jettie was just as blown away the first time she saw one of these spectacular dresses, and dreaming up the 2017 Court’s ensemble is a dream come true.

Parting Thoughts:

WWW. HALOFLIGHT. ORG 12 The Bend

This issue is so special to me. It marks three years of creating The Bend magazine alongside my husband and our incredible team. Jordan and I look back at those days in 2014 and laugh. They were some of the most terrifying yet invigorating times of our lives. We were newlyweds, newly-parents and newly-business owners. I feel honored that God gave us the opportunity to bring The Bend to my hometown, but I can honestly say I sleep a lot easier during year 3 than I did year 1. Thirty-eight issues later, we are even more grateful for this community and the way you have embraced The Bend.

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[the lifestyle magazine• ofwww.facebook.com/customhomedesign03 the coastal bend] thebendmag.com 13 361-779-9069

April | Letter From The Publisher

Taking in the View

ne of the joys of my job is getting to travel all over the Coastal Bend just about every day. Most of the time I know where I’m going, but every now and then I need to plug an address into my phone and like magic, three or four routes pop up with exact directions, distance, and travel time. Sometimes, I wonder how we used to get around before smart phone apps. It even scares me to think that the next generation might not ever learn how to read a paper map. We live in an age of speed and efficiency, and our apps know that. As I travel to my destination, I will be redirected to a faster route based on the traffic congestion or road work ahead. I am grateful for the assistance, but oftentimes I find myself choosing the scenic route over the speediest. I don’t think the friendly voice offering directions on the map app realizes where we live. Algorithms have a hard time understanding beauty and question why I choose to travel down Ocean Drive, even if getting on the highway could cut five minutes off my trip. I just can’t avoid the water. I have always lived close to the coast, as it just has a way of drawing you in. As many of us do, I take it for granted sometimes. It’s always a reality check when friends from out of town talk about taking a vacation to the area to go to the beach, and I realize that I could hop in the car and go this afternoon. Living on the water’s edge just reminds us that there is more to life; that there is a majestic world out there full of beauty and adventure. I have never owned a home on the water, at least not yet. But I interviewed a few families this month who do. It was refreshing to hear about life from their vantage point. There are so many ways and places to live on the water in the Coastal Bend. There are waterfront homes perfect for drinking in the view with a hot cup of coffee in the morning, and canal homes complete with a dock and boat lift where homeowners are seconds away from sailing the bays. You can read more about the different perspectives of local waterfront residents on page 38 and get a taste of some incredible water views around the region. Living by the water tends to slow life down a little. On the Island, residents refer to it as “island time.” In a society consumed by instant gratification, I think it’s refreshing to slow down a bit to take in amazing waterviews around the Coastal Bend. It might just make everyday life a little more gratifying. Jordan Regas, Publisher

Favorite Pages

We are always working two to three months out on an issue, so when we started our search for the five best Texas bluebonnet fields in the Coastal Bend, there was not a single one in sight. This made things a little challenging. But we had a beautiful picture of a precious girl in a field full of bluebonnets at Grace Presbyterian Church from a couple years back. There are a lot of beautiful stories and pictures in this issue, but there is no way I could honestly claim to love any more than this picture of my little girl, Gemma. Good luck in your search for bluebonnets and happy spring.

14 The Bend

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Breast Rejuvenation Breast rejuvenation is one of the more commonly performed procedures and can include implants, lifts, reduction, or a combination of the above. A breast reduction always includes a lift and involves removal of breast tissue to improve neck, back and shoulder pain. A lift is done mainly for aesthetic reasons to return the nipple and breast tissues to its appropriate position. Breast implants are placed to increase the volume of the breasts, specifically in the upper portions of the breast. Sometimes a lift with implant is needed if there is excess skin, a low nipple and diminished volume in the upper chest. While risks are increased with this combination, recent advances have allowed us to offer this procedure with a very high success rate. There are different types of breast implants that are best in different circumstances and the same is true for the location of the implants. Your board certified Plastic Surgeon can discuss your best options for giving you the results you are looking for after an evaluation. It is very important to make sure your surgeon is well trained, has completed his/her residency successfully and is board certified. In plastic surgery, a membership in the American Board of Plastic Surgery confirms that your surgeon has successfully completed residency, passed their board exams, and follows the high ethical and professional standards set by the organization. Not everyone is board certified. It is also important to make sure that you have a good rapport with your

plastic surgeon and his/her oﬃce staﬀ.

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele At The Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele, MD, FACS, who is a board certiﬁed plastic surgeon and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, we put the patient ﬁrst and strive to provide the best care with the highest standards and the latest proven technologies at the best value. Dr. VJ, as he is known by many of his patients, has been performing these procedures in Corpus Christi for the past eight years. Dr. Vijay is a military veteran, from the United States Air Force, and is an active member of the Corpus Christi Community.

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Around the Bend APRIL 2017

STYLE 18 CURRENTS 22 CONVERSATION 24 5 BEST 26 GIVING BACK 28

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside Bluebonnets began to pop up early this year due to high temperatures and ample rainfall - and we couldn't be happier! It's hard to resist pulling over for a quick photo-op when you see a cluster of these delicate flowers. Nature's perfect backdrop!

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Special Advertising Section

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Around the Bend | Currents

Currents By: Jarred Schuetze

Yoga is for Posers, Literally

A 1920s Facelift

Owners of the local bar Infinite, located on N. Chaparral St., are renovating a large back portion of the bar to reflect that of a classic speak-easy. Building a second bar, creating an additional entrance, updating the interior/ exterior and utilizing a myriad of industrial nuances, the owners hope to attract a new wave of bar patrons to the establishment. “The concept behind all the new renovations for our bar is to remind the locals that there are still nice establishments downtown to venture to…we really want to help revitalize downtown by creating a destination not just for the tourists but also for our amazing fellow Corpus Christians,” said one of the bar owners. This first round of renovations on the bar were completed mid-March and were the first of many upcoming revamps for the bar duo of Infinite and Rehab Karaoke. 20 The Bend

Yoga enthusiasts of Corpus Christi, the wait is finally over. The ever popular Yoga Time has now added a new Southside chapter to its fitness family. This yoga class meets inside SPACE by RBI, located at 7301 S. Staples Street. Through a donation-based approach, Yoga Time hopes to inspire others to take the time to connect with their mind, body & spirit – both on and off the mat. Yoga Time offers an inviting mix of yoga classes, workshops/events, and even retreats. The studio meets the needs of everyone by offering a full spectrum of beginner to advanced classes, with attention to movement, alignment, breath, meditation, and so much more. Classes are offered daily. Visit them on Facebook or go to their website southsideyogatime.com for specifics on class categories and times. For peace of mind, a better body, and sanity in this hectic world, visit Southside Yoga Time.

They’re Not Trucking Around

Food truck owners and enthusiasts alike are eagerly waiting for the renovation to begin on the old Greyhound Bus Station in downtown Corpus Christi. Under the new ownership of Ben Lomax, this old bus station will be converted into an alfresco bar and restaurant called B.U.S., which stands for ‘Bar Under the Stars.’ Here’s the kicker - all the food will be served exclusively by local food trucks. This new hub will be extremely beneficial to the growth and stability of the food truck scene in the Coastal Bend; not only by supplying a firm location for the food trucks to park and serve but a convenient location for consumers to venture out for an eclectic choice of foods and beverages. B.U.S. is set to open in the fall of 2017 and is one of the most highly anticipated projects coming to the downtown area this year. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Special Promotion

ICONIC LOCAL BUILDING PROJECTS

Corpus Christi Independent School District: • New Windsor Park Elementary School (In Progress) • New Baker Middle School (In Progress) • New South Park Middle School (In Progress) • Veterans’ Memorial High School • Dorothy Adkins Middle School • New Los Encinos Elementary School • New Calk-Wilson Elementary School • Faye Webb Elementary School • Zachary Kolda Elementary School • Gloria Hicks Elementary School Del Mar College: • Emerging Technology Expansion (In Progress) Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority: • CC RTA Staples Street Center • CC RTA Bear Lane Administration Building City of Corpus Christi: • American Bank Center: Selena Auditorium Addition/Renovation and multipurpose Arena • North Bayfront Park • Bayshore Park (In Progress) • Downtown Chaparral Street Redevelopment City of Portland: • City of Portland City Hall • City of Portland Police Station Tuloso-Midway ISD: • New Athletics Facilities • New Performing Arts Center • New FEMA Safe Shelter Dome Robstown ISD: • New High School Addition

COMMUNITY BY DESIGN With a focus on relationships, culture and community, Gignac Architects has designed many of the iconic buildings that shape the Coastal Bend.

hen Raymond Gignac, Principle-in-Charge of Gignac Architects, was looking for a place to start his career, he knew he wanted to live by the water. He narrowed his options down to Corpus Christi and Austin. With a population around 300,000, Corpus Christi was slightly larger than Austin at that time. When he received his first job offer in Corpus Christi, he knew he had found a home. “When I moved here in the mid-`70s, Corpus Christi was about to boom, and again it’s about to boom,” says Gignac. Gignac Architects has served Texas with architectural, interior and master planning services since 1988. It started as a one-man firm without even a secretary on staff. Today, Gignac Architects is a full-service firm providing planning expertise in educational, in-

stitutional, municipal and commercial work with an emphasis on quality design with 20 employees in three offices. The multi-generational firm is family run and looking toward the future. Raymond Gignac’s son, Nick Gignac, grew up going to his dad’s office playing on the marker board in the office. Now, his grandchildren do the same. According to Gignac, the firm is the right size; large enough to handle the needs of the city and South Texas, but small enough to maintain a personal connection. One of the firm’s unique factors is that both Raymond and Nick Gignac are involved in every project. Gignac Architects has maintained a strong relationship with the City of Corpus Christi and CCISD for years. The firm has designed many of the iconic buildings around the community, including 22 projects for CCISD and multiple projects for the City of Corpus Christi, the Regional Trans-

portation Authority, and the City of Portland. Just a few of their current projects include the Del Mar College Emerging Technology Expansion, the New Baker Middle School, and the new Windsor Park Elementary School. With every project, they engage the client and the community, and explore every option to see what works and what doesn’t. “Building relationships is important. It’s a crucial part of understanding the needs of the city as it grows and changes,” says Nick Gignac. “We have had a long-term presence here and are a second generation firm. So were not out-of-town people who come and make a mark on the community in a vacuum. We have been here, experiencing the culture and the people here, and know that whatever we do will be around for a significant amount of time. We know we will be here experiencing it, too. That is why

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we pride ourselves on the work we do in Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend,” he says. As the community develops they hope to grow alongside it and meet its design and architectural needs. Gignac Architects employs a full staff of design and construction professionals to promote quality in overall project design and management. They commit the workforce necessary to complete projects within the designated schedule. Each project team is tailored to address the unique challenges and opportunities to ensure a successful project. “With the recent industrial growth and growth of the Coastal Bend, we are hopeful that our community continues to use local architects, so that the people who are a part of the community will continue to design it as it grows,” says Nick Gignac. thebendmag.com

Around the Bend | Person of Interest

Conversation with Corpus Christi Hook's Mascot, Rusty

Rusty dances into the hearts of baseball fans at Whataburger Field By: Cissy Tabor Photo: Courtesy Corpus Christi Hooks

As the Hooks mascot, what are some of your favorite memories? My most recent favorite memory is of Antonio Nunez hitting a walk-off single last September against Midland in the playoffs. I also once won a mascot Home Run Derby on my birthday. And everyone remembers when I beat Sammy in the 2008 election for favorite Hooks mascot. Barack Obama wasn’t the only winner that year!

Did Sammy take it hard? Are y’all still buddies? We’re still friends, of course. He called a press conference to concede, so my win was somewhat anticlimactic.

What is the most satisfying experience about being Rusty? Shooting t-shirts from the cannon is always fun! I also love posing for pictures with the kids.

How did you get your name? It’s a family name that has been passed down from generation to generation. My uncle and great uncle are both called Rusty.

Who has been a Hooks mascot longer, you or Sammy? 22 The Bend

Sammy and I started together with the Hooks, from the beginning in 2005.

Fans really enjoy your dancing! How did you gain such good dance skills? It’s easy to look good dancing next to Sammy; he’s got two left feet. Quality dancing is about continuing education. I pay close attention to the Texas Lottery Lucky Scratch Ticket Dance-Off after Friday home games.

What has been some of the most exciting moments you’ve experienced as the Corpus Christi Hooks mascot? The 2006 Texas League Championship was awesome! I love tight games and extra innings. The deciding game lasted 14 innings and featured a triple play. It started on a Friday and ended on a Saturday. It was cool to see all my buddies in the media pop in after covering high school football earlier that night.

What is it like to go on a road trip with the Hooks players? I used to go with the team, but I got home[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

sick being so far away from the Coastal Bend. I also got tired of hitting my head on the overhead bin. Bus travel is rather difficult for me, given my physique.

What is an interesting but not very well known fact about the game of baseball that baseball fans may not know? Think about it…in baseball you have the ball on defense. That’s deep.

What do you do during the off season when the Hooks are not playing ball at Whataburger Field? I sleep a lot. I fish a lot. My Saturdays in the fall are consumed by college football on TV. I also enjoy slipping in and out of Buc Stadium for high school games without ever being seen.

Anything unusual or surprising that you would like your fans to know about you? Although my name implies I’m “rusty,” there is actually no rust on me.

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Around the Bend | 5 Best

Best

Coastal Bend Bluebonnet Fields

Spring has sprung and the bluebonnets have, too! By: Kaley Regas Photo: Rachel Durrent

wildflowers line the interstate. We recommend hopping in the the slow lane to marvel at the sight as opposed to stopping to run through the field, as the fast moving traffic in this area causes too much risk. Intersection of I-37

Grace Presbyterian Church

Perhaps one of the most family-friendly locations on the list, the field in front of Grace Presbyterian Church is abundant in bluebonnets. With parking provided by the church lot, it’s easy to see why this would be mom’s choice for getting photos taken safely. The flowers get a little spotty behind the building, but if you wander around to the back you will find the church playground – a perfect way to get the kids to behave for pictures.

& Hwy 77, Corpus Christi, TX 78410

6301Yorktown Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Asbury Church Down the road from Grace Presbyterian, is another church with a blooming bluebonnet backdrop. Although the field is not as thick as the former, we highly recommend this location as it has similar benefits such as parking and easy access to the flowers. 1751 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX 78413

Interstate 37 & Highway 77 Take a drive west to see an array of bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush and a rainbow of other

24 The Bend

Interstate 37 & Violet Rd. Violet! You’re turning violet, Violet – off Violet Rd. that is! I-37 has been a reliable source for thick plots of bluebonnets for decades. Word to the wise – drivers are traveling at speeds up to 65 mph, so think twice before pulling over, especially if you have small children or animals. I-37 & Violet Rd, Corpus Christi, TX

78410

Copano Causeway

At the north end of this Rockport causeway is a beautiful spread of bluebonnets. As you make your way there, keep your eyes open as the drive will be blanketed with stunning yellow wildflowers such as Green Thread, Tiny Tim and Yellow Flax. Near Pier 13, North Copano Causeway, Rockport, TX 78382

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THE TEXAS STATE FLOWER With the formal name of Lupinus Texensis, the bluebonnet was officially named the Texas state flower on March 7th, 1901. It wasn’t an uncontested race though. In fact, it was quite the battle of the sexes to get the beloved blue flower recognized at all. In one corner stood the male lawmakers, determined to showcase either the rugged cactus or the blue-collared cotton ball, both thought to make Texas look durable and profitable. In the other, were the National Society of Colonial Dames of America in Texas pushing for a more graceful flower that resembled a woman’s bonnet, the bluebonnet, also known as the buffalo clover back in the day. The battle didn’t last long though, as the men, being the gentlemen they were, gave in to the women’s wishes. There are now 5 species scattered up and down Texas State Highways courtesy of the deeply admired Lady Bird Johnson.

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Around the Bend | Giving Back

Hope is in the Air Experience what it is like to be a military aviator By: George Ruiz Photos: Courtesy George Ruiz

he “Pilot for a Day” program provides critically and/or chronically ill children with a day full of memories.

Teaming with Driscoll Children’s Hospital and The Children’s Cancer Center of South Texas, 12 children per year experience a lifestyle typically only viewed on television. Not only revealing the daily life of a pilot performing flight duties but also all of the efforts that go on behind the scenes making Naval Aviation the best in the world. The goal at each day’s end is to have each child say, “WOW, that was the best day of my life!” The purpose of the program is to foster positive community relations between NAS Corpus Christi and the South Texas region through an outreach program with local children’s hospitals. This program, managed and sponsored by the VT-35 “Stingrays” (a joint advanced multi-engine training command flying the TC-12), allows a critically ill child to experience life as a military aviator. The idea of this program, introduced in August 2001 by Mr. George Ruiz (Calallen, TX school district bus driver and military enthusiast), became a reality in September 2001. Since then, 180 children have participated in the “Pilots for a Day” (PFAD) program, with many more “pilots” in the future.

26 The Bend

The highlight of each “pilot’s” day, the simulator, allows the child to fly around the local Corpus Christi area. With a full 180-degree view, the PFAD has the opportunity to see local landmarks such as the USS LEXINGTON, downtown Corpus Christi, and North Padre Island. The time soars by as the PFAD flies, lands, and performs aerobatic maneuvers. Honor, Courage, and Commitment are the exacting values that the PFAD program demonstrates. There is no greater honor than to share such a special day with incredible children. The military is known for having the most courageous people around, however, even the strongest ones are in awe for the courage these children display each and every day to fight their ailments. Each and every PFAD volunteer has the commitment to make each child’s day one of the most memorable of their lives and allows them to temporarily forget the hardships they endure. Since its inception in September 2001, VT-35’s PFAD program has provided over 20,000 volunteer man-hours. This time and effort has resulted in a tremendously successful program that VT-35 will support as long as it exists.

pilotforaday@yahoo.com

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Located in Portland’s Exclusive Northshore Community...

Meet Our General Dentists ( practice limited to children )

Nancy Coll, D.M.D.

Christina Mueller, D.D.S., M.P.H.

Kennedy dental Care

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Alameda Office:

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Calallen Office:

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Enclave Office:

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Kennedy Dental Care provides specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a “child-friendly” environment. We focus on preventive care to help each child grow a healthy smile that will last a lifetime!

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Saratoga Office:

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Destinations APRIL 2017

LOCAL DISCOVERY 34 QUICK TRIP 36

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside Winery on the Bay in Rockport is welcoming and relaxed. Some customers are very serious about their wines, while others are out for a fun experience. It is not a wine-snob type of place, but a great way to enjoy and learn about wine without pretense.

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Destinations | Local Discovery

You Had Me at Merlot Homegrown hobby to burgeoning business By: Caroline R. Freeman Photos: Rachel Durrent

ebbie and Dan Parker’s award-winning wines are the toast of the town in Rockport, TX.

Dan Parker, co-owner and operator of Winery on the Bay has been making beer and wine at home for 35 years. What spurred the change from backroom hobby to flourishing business? A Christmas card. Dan recalls, “Ten years ago, while living in Gruene, our family needed to do a Christmas card for that year. So, I made the sauvignon blanc that we still serve here, and we put our Christmas picture as the label. We gave that wine to all our friends and family.” Half of those creative holiday card recipients came back for more and encouraged Dan and his wife, Debbie, to begin making wine for a living. “Two years later, we opened our first winery in Gruene, called Winery on the Gruene, and it’s still there,” says Dan. Dan and Debbie loved vacationing in the charming beach town of Rockport. Three years ago, the family decided to relocate from Gruene to the Coastal Bend area for what Debbie calls “a working retirement” and open their second

30 The Bend

winemaking business, Winery on the Bay. The Parkers still keep the Gruene location up and running with Dan’s monthly visits and a childhood friend, John Czajkowski, as their partner. The success of Dan and Debbie’s business steadily grows. Winery on the Bay has expanded and moved to a larger location in downtown Rockport. This colorful boutique winery features a large tasting room and comfortable seating options including their wonderful front patio. Through a large window behind the bar, you can see into their winemaking room filled with wine barrels and bottles. For $5, in their tasting room you can sample 4 of any of their 28 wines. They also offer cheese, salami, crackers, olives, and chocolate to pair and snack on. But what really makes Dan and Debbie’s wineries different is that they use grape juices from all over the world. Dan explains, “We get our juices from many countries. Because of this, we have a wide variety of wines we make; if you like sweet, dry, traditional whites and reds, custom blends—we have it. There’s a little bit of everything for everybody.”

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HEARING AIDS SO SMALL,

JOINEVEN THEYOU CLUB WILL FORGET

(4 bottles every 2 months)

YOU’RE WEARING IT.

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1. Club Member Exclusive wine release 2. Confirmed access to new and limited releases 3. Complimentary tasting for you and 3 guests each month 4. 15% discount on all wine Their most unique blend varietals are fruit-infused wines. Dan states, “Those are our best-selling. They’re sweet and easy to drink. You don’t have to have a meal with them, you can just sit on your patio and drink away.” Flavors have included pomegranate, wild berry, blueberry, and peach to name a few. “Most wineries don’t even have them, and we introduce different flavors throughout the year,” Debbie reveals.

5. Bottles signed by the wine maker 6. Discounts on all winery events

361.704.6630

1500 WILDCAT DR. STE B, PORTLAND, TX YORKHEARINGAIDS.COM

The Parkers aquire the juice and then blend, ferment, filter, bottle, and label it all in-house. They do the entire process by hand. And just to keep it in the family, their high-school aged son and daughter, Alex and Shelby, are their best helpers. Their children label all the bottles one at a time. Shelby even drew the beautiful crab that is etched onto all of the wine glasses. Dan and Debbie Parker run their businesses like a family: with care, patience, creativity, and love. They are just as passionate about their award-winning wines as they are for the community of locals and tourists they serve it to.

1007 E. North Street Rockport, Texas 78382 (361) 727-9888 wineryonthebay.com

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Destinations | Quick Trip

Align to Alpine

Originally established as a campsite for cattlemen around 1878, the town’s name wasn’t changed to ‘Alpine’ until February 3, 1888, following a petition by its residents. During this time, a description of the town mentioned a dozen houses, three saloons, a hotel and rooming house, a livery stable, a butcher shop, and a drugstore, which also housed the post office. Alpine cultivated sluggishly until Sul Ross State Normal College (now Sul Ross State University) was opened in 1920. The development of Big Bend National Park in the 1930s and `40s spurred further growth for the meek population rising by the thousands. Today, Alpine is home to around 6,000 residents and attracts visitors from all over the region because of its proximity to one of the United States National Parks most beautiful sites, Big Bend.

By: Jarred Schuetze Photos: Courtesy of Round Top CVB

Not just a gateway to Big Bend National Park, but a flourishing West Texas town popularized by retirees, who are attracted by its small-town feel, preserved historic culture, and vast beautiful landscapes.

Alpine is nicknamed the Mile-High City because the town is situated atop a large plateau in the Chihuahua Desert surrounded by the Davis Mountains to the north and the Chisos Mountains to the south.

From Chicken Fried Steak to Calf Fries or the Pepper Crusted Tenderloin and Cowboy Rib Eye Steak, this is a dining experience you won't want to miss.

www.reata.net

Where to Drink:

Where to Stay:

Saddle Club

Holland Hotel

Conjoined with the Granada Theatre and Courtyard, Saddle Club is a comfy gathering place that features a full-service bar and a mouth-watering menu, inspired by tapas around the world that changes daily. The Saddle Club has a private upstairs area, which is an ideal location for smaller gatherings such as family reunions, wedding receptions and birthdays.

When you’re in Alpine, it’s the Holland Hotel that offers the ultimate fusion of hospitality, convenience, and culture. Designed by Henry Trist and opened in 1928, this classic hotel offers an authentic slice of the Big Bend community and hosts countless local events. Located in the center of downtown Alpine, step outside the front doors and be within walking distance from shopping, galleries, dining, and live music. Relax and admire the sunset from their famous penthouse or grab a delicious cocktail in the cozy outdoor courtyard. The romance is alive and well in this luxurious West Texas hotel.

thehollandhoteltexas.com

Where to Eat:

Reata Restaurant The original Reata Restaurant was established in the scenic Davis Mountains of West Texas and was named after the famous ranch in the James Dean classic movie, “Giant,” which was filmed in nearby Marfa. This restaurant offers a superb fine-dining atmosphere with legendary Texas cuisine. Be prepared, this food is not your usual city fare. 32 The Bend

saddleclubalpine.com

Where to Explore:

Big Bend Brewing Co. Founded with a passion for small-batch craft beer and a love for the weathered, mountainous landscape of West Texas, Big Bend Brewing Co. is utilizing old-world brewing traditions to capture the essence of West Texas twelve ounces at a time. Tours are available on Saturdays at 1pm and 3pm, where you will get a behind-the-scenes overview of traditional brewery productions while learning the deep history of Big Bend Brewing. Take the afternoon to relax and beat the sun by sipping on one (or five) of the numerous unique and refreshing in-house brews served.

bigbendbrewing.com

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Where to Rock:

Granada Theatre The historic Granada Theatre has undergone extensive remodeling and updating to create a state-of-the-art Performance and Events Center that serves the Alpine community and the surrounding region. The grounds of Granada not only host music and theatrical performances but can be rented out for community and private events. The main area offers exceptional lights and sound, a large stage, and a full-catering kitchen. There is a quaint courtyard with an open air space to grab some fresh air or a quiet conversation while still enjoying the echoes of the performance going on inside.

alpinegranada.com

Where to Shop:

Cheshire Cat Antiques This family-owned business is a true cultural gem in the city of Alpine. The owners are extremely welcoming and are well-informed on the items they sell. The store itself has a myriad of fabulous treasures due to the owners’ keen eyes for detail and aesthetic taste. They are incredibly articulate while providing a historic back story for every piece sold in the store.

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Did you know that in most states including Texas, any licensed physician can perform cosmetic procedures without being Board Certified in Plastic Surgery? Cosmetic surgeons such as Dr. Gentile have completed rigorous training in facial plastic surgery and plastic surgery. It is incumbent upon YOU to check that your surgeon is indeed Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. WHY choose Dr. Gentile? … He has over 30 years experience in Cosmetic Surgery. His surgery skills leave patients not only looking and feeling younger, but the true artistry of a skilled surgeon’s hand leaves patients with a more natural, youthful look. When you decide to have plastic surgery, it is because you want a specific outcome…and this outcome is dependent largely upon which plastic surgeon you choose.

Dr. Gentile has been practicing exclusively cosmetic surgery, as well as non-surgical cosmetic treatments for over 30 years employing the latest techniques. His concern for safety led him to develop the first in-office accredited surgical center in South Texas 20 years ago. Dr. Herve Gentile is widely recognized as one of the nation’s top plastic surgeons with the nation’s highest credentials. He is nominated by the American Registry in the top 5% of America’s most honored professionals. Dr. Gentile is listed by Best Doctors©, Consumer Research Council of America©, and Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors© guide, as well as, many other professional accolades. All of these are chosen by an impartial resource that catalogs the top quality doctors after peer nomination with an extensive research and screening process.

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E 34 The Bend

he Coastal Bend is where Texas meets the water's edge; it’s where morning coffee meets the sun as it rises over the Corpus Christi Bay; it’s where tiring days meet rejuvenating evenings. Life on the water's edge is both adventurous and serene. There’s just something special about living on the water, so it’s no wonder thousands travel to the Coastal Bend every year to get a taste of life here. We single out a few of our favorite coastal neighborhoods and share some stories and insights from those fortunate enough to call them home.

lifestyle magazine of theJason coastalPage, bend]Rachel Durrent and Susan Costa By: Jordan Regas and[the Whitney Noble Photos:

Edge on the

Water's

Discover our favorite coastal neighborhoods with sweeping water views in the Coastal Bend

OCEAN DRIVE Corpus Christi

f you truly want to experience the Sparkling City by the Sea, one of the iconic places to take in its majesty is along Ocean Drive. Locals will go out of their way to cruise down the seven-mile stretch, wrapping along the Corpus Christi Bay.

are so many unique and elegant homes encompassed by multiple parks and scenic views.

Lynae Canales and her husband fell in love with their home on Ocean Drive. “It had everything we wanted in a place to raise our boys,” she says.

Canales and her family love being close to the beach, and going for walks or jogs down Ocean Drive. They also enjoy the close proximity to great local restaurants, such as The Post, Tannins, Hester's, Bellinos, Sugarbakers, and Taylor Center Deli.

The water is like glass in the morning and evening. The sunlight bounces off the bay and shimmers across the shoreline. The architecture of the homes along Ocean Drive adds to the natural beauty. There

“Just looking at the water brings a feeling of peace and calm. It's therapeutic...especially at sunrise,” says Canales.

“We actually have a nice selection of restaurants within a few blocks of our home,” says Canales.

In The Neighborhood Cole Park: Not only is it a great place to go for a walk, this bayside park features a playground, lighted fishing pier, skate park & open spaces for outdoor activity. 101 Ocean Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78401, (361) 826-3102 Yardarm: What was once a small family home along Ocean Drive is now a local landmark where generations have come to taste some incredible seafood dishes on the Corpus Christi Bay. Be sure to make a reservation. 4310 Ocean Dr. Corpus Christi, TX, 78412 (361) 855-8157 Oso Beach Municipal Golf Course: Opened in 1939 along the Cayo de Oso Watershed. The course is primarily flat, but watch out for those tall trees and water obstacles. 5601 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412, (361) 826-8010

36 The Bend

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The Essentials: 1) Walkers and joggers are drawn to the sidewalks and the multitude of parks that are scattered along the entire stretch of Ocean Drive. There is no excuse to not get outside and enjoy the fresh air. 2) Along with mansions and villas are a number of condos and several apartment complexes as the road gets closer to the Texas A&M Corpus Christi Campus. 3) Residents are a short drive from downtown or Lamar Park where there are a number of great shops and restaurants. 4) Many homes feature piers, but if you are looking to dock a boat, try the Bayfront Marina. More of a spectator? Choose to watch the sail boats race away from the T-Head, which is a weekly Corpus Christi tradition.

NORTHSHORE Portland

hile there are a number of great neighborhoods and homes overlooking the Corpus Christi Bay from the other side of the Harbor Bridge, there is one place in particular where the view is purely serene. There is a stretch of homes in Portland’s NorthShore neighborhood on Pebble Beach road with a view of the bay that seems to go on for eternity. The morning fog drifts across the sunlight, creating a mystic haze. Along with the view are a number of unique birds and wildlife that gather on the shore.

They can see the ships on the ship channel coming in from Aransas Pass. Their home faces west, so the front of the house blocks the hot sun in the summer time. “It’s a very pretty open view. When you live in real tight quarters with houses everywhere, basically you can’t see very far and you get a claustrophobic feeling. Here you have this feeling of openness, because you can see out. You can see nature and plenty of birds,” says Tom.

Betty and Tom Bomar lived in Portland for 25 years before moving to Pebble Beach Rd. They always wanted to live on the water. They were looking to move from their two-story home to a one-story home and found the perfect one that had been on the market for a while.

Although they don’t have a pier or a boat lift, they do have access to the water within walking distance. Their grandkids love the water and love to wade and go fishing. The Bomars also keep kayaks in the garage for their older grandsons to take down to the water.

“Never did I dream that I would be living on the water. It’s been delightful. It’s very serene, very calming. We thoroughly enjoy it. We sit out in the morning and have coffee. It’s a lot of pleasure,” says Betty.

They love the fact that their neighborhood is both very pleasant and very private. They are a close community, quick to help anyone in need. Here, neighbors are always looking out for each other.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

The Essentials: 1) There are always neighbors outside either running, walking or playing in their front yards. With sidewalks throughout the neighborhood, the area is a great place to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery. 2) The nearby country club offers members a fitness center, lap pool and toddler pool, golf course and excellent tennis courts with professional instruction. 3) Right around the corner are shopping centers, restaurants and a grocery store. Residents are not far from downtown Corpus Christi, where many go for work, entertainment and a variety of dining options.

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In The Neighborhood

KEY ALLEGRO Rockport

NorthShore Country Club Golf Course: With four holes along the bay, the views from this popular golf course are spectacular. Designed by renowned golf course architects, Bruce Devlin and Robert Von Hagge, this golf course is recognized as one of the best in the state. 801 E Broadway Blvd, Portland, TX 78374, (361) 643-1546

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The Bar & Grill: The Bar & Grill at the country club features an array of dining choices throughout the week, including special features on Fridays, such as prime rib, seafood and steak. Don’t miss the champagne brunch on Sundays. 801 E Broadway Blvd, Portland, TX 78374, (361) 643-1546

New East Cliff Elementary School: The Gregory-Portland Independent School District is ranked as one of the best in the state, and the city recently finished construction on the new East Cliff Elementary School near the NorthShore neighborhood. 1140 W Broadway Ave, Portland, TX 78374, (361) 777-4255

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ey Allegro neighborhood sits on a triangular peninsula in Rockport separated from the mainland by Little Bay and looks out on Aransas Bay to the east. The area was originally developed in the early '60s by Carl Kruger as a resort community, but today the area has evolved into a thriving neighborhood with many full-time and part-time residents. Shirley Kirmse and her husband have lived in Key Allegro for 33 years and raised their children there. After living in one home for 29 years, they recently bought a new home in the neighborhood on Little Bay. “It’s a fabulous view. It’s fun to watch the wildlife activity and see the dolphins. It’s a great spot,” says Kirmse. Both Shirley and her husband sail and paddle board on the bay. She even placed 3rd in a local paddle boarding competition. Most homes sit on a canal with a dock and boat lift.

The Essentials: 1) A barrier island serves as a buffer from hurricanes in the Rockport area. 2) Key Allegro is surrounded by two bays, Little Bay and Aransas Bay, and is a canal subdivision with many waterfront properties. 3) Key Allegro is a haven for anglers, with a bay full of speckled trout, flounder, redfish and more.

“Sailing is my husband’s first love, so we keep sail boats behind our house,” says Kirmse.

In The Neighborhood

Kirmse enjoys taking the boat down to the yacht club, and dining at GLOW on the other side of Little Bay, which was once her husband’s sail boat shop. There is a little oyster shell beach where a lot of familie’s take their kids to play. Key Allegro also offers a pool right in the heart of the neighborhood and membership is included with the annual homeowners association dues. “Key Allegro is a blast, there are always people out running and biking, and in the evening people are out cocktail cruising,” says Kirmse.

GLOW: Located in a tiny, rustic boathouse, Glow offers simply-cooked meals along with cocktails, wine and beer in a relaxed setting. 1815 Broadway St, Rockport, TX 78382, (361) 727-2644

Rockport Center for the Arts: An exhibition/learning facility and nonprofit organization dedicated to promotion of the arts in Rockport. They also offer many social activities for members including the Rockport Tour of Homes in April. 902 Navigation Cir, Rockport, TX 78382, (361) 729-5519

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Texas Maritime Museum: With exhibits featuring anything from pirates to fishing to oil drilling, Gulf Coast history is told through exhibits & artifacts. The museum also hosts the Rockport Festival of Wine and Food every summer. 1202 Navigation Cir, Rockport, TX 78382, (361) 729-1271

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The Essentials:

THE CANALS PADRE ISLAND

he seagull’s sunrise song sweeps you from your dreams and in to your kitchen for a fresh cup of coffee. Mornings on Padre Island are mystic – magical and spellbounding, sometimes bright and hopeful, but most often very still. The canals haven’t yet awoken, and sit calm, like a glass floor. Resident herons who have made the canals of the Island their home perch perfectly still, waiting for that small fish to jump. Disrupting the water, the bird dives in for breakfast, and the Island is awake. “We love everything about living on the water! We enjoy boating and the convenience of living

40 The Bend

on the water makes a quick sunset cruise as enjoyable as a long day trip,” says Angela Hanley. The canals vary in sizes and location, therefore each provide their own unique view. Look out across the glittering water at your neighbor’s perfectly landscaped yard, or perhaps you have a serene view of the wetlands and large open water. Watch the boating world go by through the railings of your deck. “It’s very relaxing after a long day to chill out at home overlooking the canal. I still get excited when the dolphins are swimming in the backyard,” says Hanley.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

1) The Island’s charter school is what draws many young families to settle here. Only Island residents can attend, and there is a current enrollment at 525 students. 2) The Padre Isle’s Property Association ensures that the canals are kept clean, bulkheads, the medians at Whitecap and Seapines, boat ramps, canal-end landscaping and cul-de-sacs are all maintained, and gives residents a peace of mind knowing they have a POA protecting and looking out for the well-being of the Island. 3) Several incredible dining options and bars are available, along with nail salons, mail stores, boutique shopping, pharmacies, liquor stores, hotels, emergency care, veterinary care, fitness centers, furniture shops, hardware store, automotive service center, and so much more!

Q&A with Richard Trhoop President of the Corpus Christi Association of REALTORS®. Q: Why is it so important for buyers and sellers to work with a local and knowledgeable REALTOR®? A: Not all real estate agents are REALTORS®. Only a REALTOR® subscribes to a strict code of ethics enforced by the National Association of REALTORS®. This means that you get a consummate professional looking out for you and your interests. They should be someone you feel comfortable with too, as you will be using their experience to help you make what is often one of the largest financial purchases in your life. A local REALTOR® is someone who has access to the most up-to-date and accurate tools and market data, making sure that they can provide research on a home you might be interested in based on current local market specifics. This also means that they are local market experts in the area you are searching for a property in! Q: What local trends are you noticing that may be exciting for our region?

In The Neighborhood

Community Gardens: These gardens are for Island residents who may not have backyards as most waterfront properties are built all the way to the bulkhead. This gives plot owners a chance to grow their veggies, fruits, flowers and herbs in a controlled environment next to their friends! 361-949-7025

Boat Ramps: Seven public boat ramps are available for use for those who may not live on the water but have boats. They are conveniently located all over the Island for resident ease.

Mikel Mays: This restaurant, located at iconic Bob Hall Pier, serves up delicious food and drinks right on the beach directly over the water. The view is always incredible and there isn’t a better place to wow your out-of-town guests. 15820 Park Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78418, (361) 949-7437

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

A: The median price of a home in the Corpus Christi area is approximately $190,000. While this number has continued to increase over the past few years, we still have a balanced and healthy real estate market in the Coastal Bend. However, homeownership rates continue to be of concern for our area. Only 53.7% of homes in Nueces County are owner-occupied units, which is near the bottom of most counties in Texas. Q: How does the association help advocate for the Coastal Bend’s private property rights? A: The Corpus Christi Association of REALTORS® advocates for homeowners who live in the Coastal Bend area. With over 1,300 REALTORS®, our voice is powerful when dealing with local issues that affect private property rights. We represent not only Corpus Christi, but have jurisdiction over all cities and towns within Nueces and Jim Wells County.

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The Essentials: 1) Beach walkovers are prominent in nearly every beachfront community on Mustang Island. This gives residents direct beach access for their own private enjoyment. Walk on over or drive that golf cart packed full of beach essentials so you don’t need to run back to the house for sunscreen. 2) Golf Carts are a Mustang Island resident’s best friend! These planned streetscapes were designed to be pedestrian and golf-cart friendly. 3) Pools are as big and family-friendly as they come in these communities. Many offer multiple pools – one that is more child friendly, one that’s more leisurely, but all are resort-style.

MUSTANG ISLAND PORT ARANSAS

here is one thing that cannot be imitated, and that is the beach; the sand, the surf, the salt, the smell. Mustang Island is an 18-mile long stretch of barrier island that connects Padre Island at its southern end and Port Aransas at its northern end. This unspoiled land sits between the gulf and the bay, surrounding you completely by water. Swen Nguyen and her husband are self proclaimed, “water people!” “Wherever we've lived, we've always been near the water. My husband lives and breathes fishing. We have three boys who are avid water kids who fish, surf, boogie board, you name it,” says Nguyen. What was once occupied by wild horses for hundreds of years, these sandy trails still feel pristine and untouched, where raw coastline living is at its finest. Long walks on the beach, seashell collecting, and crackling bonfires make living on the beach extra special. “We have a lot of fun on the bay,

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but I always wanted to live on the beach. Our beachfront home is in a very small neighborhood with only 5 homes, so aside from the proximity to the gulf, the seclusion was appealing. I am a morning person, so I get to enjoy the incredible sunrise over the Gulf and then set over the bay,” says Nguyen. “I can see both the sunrise and the sunset from our balcony and it's the best of both worlds, especially during an orange moon. There's something about the water and the constant movement of the beach that is very soothing and rejuvenating; the air is always fresh and we always have a wind - it's the best place to decompress. My dad and I would sit on the beach, and he would just doze off from the sound of waves. You lose all sense of the time of day until the sun goes down,” says Nguyen. Planned communities along the gulf side are colorful, uniform, and Pleasantville picture perfect. Oceanfront elegance brings visitors from all over the world, yet many are lucky enough to call Mustang Island home.

In The Neighborhood Lisabellas: Culinary inventive seaside restaurant where a mermaid always watches over you, this tasty gem is consistently serving the best meals around. Concocting new menu items and specials daily, it’s a remarkable gourmet twist on your favorite fare in casual coastal elegance. 5009 TX-361, Port Aransas, TX 78373, (361) 749-4222 Palmilla Beach Golf Course: This Arnold Palmer Signature Design course awaits you with 18 championship holes, the only links-style course in Texas. Aside from the incredible design, it is surrounded by high-end homes and, of course, the beach. Finish up and have a drink or nosh at Black Marlin restaurant right on site. 258 Snapdragon, Port Aransas, TX 78373, (361) 749-4653 State Park: Mustang Island State Park offers over five miles of coastline to swim, play, fish, camp, picnic, bike, or bird watch! With nearly 100 campsites, both primitive or water/electric sites, and a paddle trail extending the length of 20 miles, the park is full of surprises. 17047 TX-361, Port Aransas, TX 78373, (361) 749-5246

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PELICAN COVE Aransas Pass itting 20 miles north of Corpus Christi and five miles east of the Port Aransas ferry, Pelican Cove is a beautiful canal-subdivision in Aransas Pass. The neighborhood looks out onto Steadman Reef and Redfish Bay. Its central location offers quick access to the Intercoastal Waterway, Aransas Bay, Corpus Christi Bay, nearby islands, and the Gulf of Mexico via Port Aransas. Pelican Cove is unique in that it is protected by a sea wall gate that closes off the canals from high water storm surge during a hurricane. It was the perfect place for Keith Hargrove and his wife to retire after a long stint away from home.

“We both were born and raised in Texas, but business took us and our two young children out to Northern California for a “brief ” 30-

year adventure, always planning to retire back to Texas. In 2013 that finally happened and we settled in Pelican Cove after a ten-year search for the perfect location for us. We found it,” says Hargrove. The neighborhood offers a great community network through the Aransas Pass Yacht Club and Pelican Cove Canal Owners Association. The Hargroves are active members of both. “In addition to the waterfront, living with a boat on a lift in the backyard canal along with the shore birds and dolphins in the canals, we love the neighbors and great friends that we have made in the neighborhood and through the Aransas Pass Yacht Club,” says Hargrove.

In The Neighborhood Aransas Pass Yacht Club: APYC promotes recreational boating, boating safety, boating education and related activities, including cruising, sailing, fishing, waterfront activities and social functions, such as a local fishing tournament and fish fry. 426 Ransom Rd, Aransas Pass, TX 78336, (361) 758-4600

The Essentials: 1) Easy access to multiple bodies of water, including the Gulf of Mexico, with many great places to fish. 2) The Pelican Cove Canal Owners Association works to protect property investment. 3) Pelican Cover offers a wide range of price points available, including multiple empty lots for sale in the area.

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ST CE R RT OK IFI E E D

Act FAST – Be Stroke Smart! Learn how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T. Rapid access to medical treatment can make the difference between a full recovery and permanent disability. Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital encourages you to learn the warning signs of stroke. F.A.S.T. is an easy way to identify the most common symptoms of a stroke:

F – Face drooping A – Arm weakness S – Speech difficulty T – Time to call 9-1-1

if you observe any of these symptoms

LEARN THE WARNING SIGNS THAT CAN SAVE A LIFE. BE STROKE SMART!

CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM

5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414 • ph: 361.906.3700

Corpus Christi Resident on the Move Again After a Stroke Stephen Connell and his family

From the time I entered the hospital until now, I feel confident that I received the best care available...

Stephen Connell was sitting at his computer last May when it happened. His left arm and leg went numb, and he lost use of both limbs. He, along with Mila, his wife of 24 years, knew immediately he was having a stroke. It was his second one. Sixty-three year old Stephen of Corpus Christi suffered his first stroke in Spring 2011. After the second one, he was taken by ambulance to the same local hospital as before. But, when it came time for rehabilitation, he and his wife requested Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital. “My wife works at a skilled nursing facility, and a patient highly recommended the rehabilitation hospital, so we both knew that’s where I wanted to go,” Stephen says. “I needed to get moving again.” A retired ship navigator in the U.S. Navy, Stephen was not one to sit idle for long. Even after retirement, he was continually active with his family, yard work, house repairs and more. He even took a job at a local men’s clothing shop just to keep busy. But, after the second stroke, Stephen’s abilities had greatly diminished. By the time he was admitted to Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital, he had no use of his left arm and leg, and he couldn’t stand up or walk. He also had trouble eating and speaking. Once Stephen entered the hospital, an interdisciplinary team met with him and his family to create a customized plan of care based upon his goals. “I wanted to be able to use my hand again,” Stephen says. “I wanted to walk. I wanted to speak and eat normally again. All things that you take for granted until something like this happens.”

Stephen set to work on his recovery with the help of his healthcare team, which consisted of a rehabilitation physician, nurses, occupational and physical therapists, speech pathologists, a dietitian and other medical professionals as needed. He says the staff was firm about him participating fully in his recovery. “That’s exactly what I wanted,” he says. After 4½ weeks, Stephen saw the results of his efforts. By June, he was eating a normal diet, regained strength in his arm, and his speech had improved. When he was discharged, he walked out of the rehabilitation hospital with the aid of a walker. Today, after continued support through the hospital’s outpatient services, Stephen is able to do almost everything he could before. “From the time I entered the hospital until now, I feel confident that I received the best care available,” he says. “That’s why I’m now able to be on the move again.”

The Court of Exquisite Brilliance

Las Doñas de la Corte presents a history of jewelry. By: Sharla Wilkins Photos: Renée C. Gage

ear after year, a dedicated group of women and dressmakers devote their time to creating the exquisite gowns showcased at the Buccaneer Day Coronation. Los Doñas de la Corte, that dedicated group of ladies, is an organization that sponsors and engineers the coronation pageant that has been part of the Buccaneer Days Celebration since 1954. This small group devotes their time and expertise every year to each aspect that goes into the four-day Coronation celebration. The Buccaneer Coronation features a king, queen, princess, and several duchesses, and is representative of a royal court during the rule of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. The Coronation honors Alonso De Pindea, a 16th century explorer who discovered Corpus Christi Bay.

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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Quick Facts • Duchesses are always

sophomores in college.

Jettie Powers, Wardrobe Chair for this year’s Coronation, is also the artist of all twenty-four dresses that will be unveiled May 4th at the American Bank Center Selena Auditorium. The Wardrobe Chair creates the theme, the vision of the court, conducts research, oversees everything dress related, and hires and works with the artist during the year it takes to finish the designs. While the Wardrobe Chair does not usually design the dresses, Powers took it upon herself to wear that crown as well. “It’s just always been a dream of mine to be able to make them,” Powers says of the dresses. Powers’ first introduction to the beautiful hand-tailored gowns worn by the Coronation duchesses was while serving as a page in a San Antonio Fiesta Coronation. “The first time that I saw the dresses or got to touch them, I was five,” Powers says. She went on to be a duchess, like her mother before her, and her daughter continued the family tradition.

• Over 780 pieces of jewelry influenced Powers’ design of the dresses.

• Past themes: The Court of the

Compass Rose (1956), The Court of Our Glorious Heritage (1976), The Golden Jubilee Court of Historical Legacies (2003).

• Coronation Robes are on display May 10th - June 4th at the Art Center of Corpus Christi.

This year’s theme is The Court of Exquisite Brilliance. Powers considered several different themes, but ultimately settled on jewelry, as, “the history of jewelry and

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Jettie's daughter, Her Majesty Grace Powers', 2015 coronation gown. the journey through it was just so compelling to me,” she explains. She chose Exquisite for the exquisite jewelry and girls who will participate in the pageant. Brilliance was chosen for the brilliance of the mind, the artist, the piece of jewelry, for the shine, and for the girls. Powers read and extensively studied the history of jewelry pieces that inspired her designs and viewed multiple pictures of the jewelry before she began. A rough sketch would start with a triangle the exact size of the train to properly tailor it to the correct length. A two-scale drawing came next, followed by a colored printout to drawing. “I would go home from work and draw and color every night,” Powers explains. A year and a half was spent drawing her creations, with the past year dedicated to bringing her designs off the pages. “It has been a wonderful journey. Jewelry is just a beautiful, emotional art form. We use it to commemorate, to love, to mourn, to celebrate, and it’s just important to me in a lot of ways,” explains Powers. The completed designs were divided equally among four dressmakers who have been with the Coronation for years. The dressmakers are presented with a folder on each dress, allowing them to see the inspiration and discuss the history behind each creation. Georgette Afram and Andrea Afram, Gloria Bechara and Samia Bechara-Palfreyman, Lucy Salinas and Monica Castillo, and Andres Contreras then spend a year constructing the dresses.

GLORIA BECHARA has been crafting custom gowns for the Buccaneer Coronation since 1985. Bechara’s daughter, Samia Bechara-Palfreyman, who worked with her mother part time during high school and college, is now a full-time dressmaker with her mother. The duo devote about 2/3 of each year to making the gowns. Girls are measured, custom fabric is purchased, each applique is outlined with rhinestones, and the color is highlighted with sequins and jewels. A pattern for the dress is cut and fitted to the girl during the second fitting, where the neckline is cut out. This ensures a custom-fitted gown. The most difficult aspect of the pictured gown was the collar. “It entailed a lot of engineering since it was all one piece and it had to stay up and at the same time look beautiful with all the rhinestone and beading,” explains Bechara.

While each dress is unique and completion time varies, a single dress can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 2 months to finish. “Their detail is exquisite,” remarks Powers of the dressmakers. For every bead a dressmaker adds to a dress, they sew a tiny bead on top to anchor it to the fabric. “They are remarkably talented, remarkably artistic,” Powers gushes. The dresses and their designs are kept from the public until they are unveiled the night of the Coronation. The Coronation is eloquently planned, with music choreographed and lighting specifically chosen for each dress. Powers has come full circle from her first introduction to a Coronation dress to now having designed every gown for this year’s court. Of jewelry as her inspiration, Powers says, “It’s a wonderful history lesson with a beautiful picture.”

48 The Bend

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BARREL RACING: 101

*Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Event* - The rider enters the arena on a sprinting horse and rides around 3 barrels and then rides out. SCORED: Fastest time wins. Each overturned barrel is a 5 second penalty.

50 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Rodeo Not My First 2017

The Buc Days Carnival and Pro Rodeo is without a doubt a Corpus Christi tradition and one that everyone can be a part of.

By: Alexa Alley

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or many people growing up in South Texas, the rodeo culture may be familiar, but hardly known, and it isn’t called a pro rodeo for nothing! The top 75 contestants for each event must compete in Robstown the Monday and Tuesday before Buc Days and only the top 32 from each event have the privilege of competing in Corpus Christi. As for the spectators in the crowd, they really get to see the best in the world compete. For someone who has not been to the rodeo before, there is a rough stock competition as well as timed events. The rough stock consists of your typical bronco and bull riding where the riders will wear chaps and a protective vest. Other timed events are barrel racing, team roping, calf roping etc. where the riders will wear spurs to keep their horse from firing off too quickly. To keep the audience in the loop about the logistics of each event will be Don Gaye, a former world champion bull rider who will be on the microphone interviewing the winner after each event to explain what separates one score from another. Beginning in 1938 as a fun festival to fill the void between spring and summer, Buc Days has since evolved to a festival and a top 35 pro rodeo over the past 80 years. Coined the name due to Pirate Lafitte moving his pirate band to Corpus Christi in the early 1800s, Buc Days began as a typical pageant and parade. Today, the pirate theme still runs deep, but

52 The Bend

ever since 1992 when the first Buc Days Pro Rodeo was established, Rodeo Corpus Christi now serves as another way to draw the community together all for the purpose of giving back to the community with academic scholarships through the Buccaneer Commission Scholarship fund. The overarching goal of the festival and rodeo is to provide affordable family fun for everyone and in so doing each fan helps send young adults to college. With that being said, the weekend will be filled with activities and entertainment for every age. Whether you grew up attending the festival and rodeo or not, this weekend is guaranteed fun. In hopes to create a family-festival atmosphere at the rodeo this year, two hours before the rodeo starts there will be a kids interactive zone complete with Mutton Bustin, face painting, food trucks and more! For those who want to stay late, after the rodeo each day there will be a one-hour concert at the American Bank Center with an impressive lineup of Texas Country and Tejano artists. However, the fun doesn’t stop there! Following the rodeo and concert, the Buckin’ Marlin Saloon will be set up right outside the American Bank Center for fans to stick around and enjoy local bands, dance, hang out and soak up all that the South Texas rodeo culture has to offer. So whether this is your first rodeo or not, come early, stay late, bring your family and your cowboy hat and enjoy some good ole’ Corpus Christi Pro Rodeo fun!

Rodeo 101 WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Bareback Riding - The rider rides the horse without a saddle for eight seconds with only one hand. Scored: Control, spurring technique, and how well the horse bucks. Disqualified: If the rider touches the horse, equipment, or themselves with their free hand. Steer Wrestling Cowboy chases a steer on their horse, jumps off of horse, grabs steer by the horns, and attempts to turn the horse over on his side. Scored: How fast the cowboy has all four legs of the steer facing in one direction. Mutton Bustin’ - A group of 5 and 6 year olds try and cling to a running sheep for as long as possible. The rider who holds on the longest receives a trophy! Team Roping - Two riders chase a steer, one ropes his horns and one his hind legs. The run is complete when both riders are facing each other on

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opposite sides of their roped steer. Saddle Bronc Riding A rider rides a bucking bronc for 8 seconds trying to synchronize his spurring action with the horse’s bucking. Scored: Cowboy’s control, how hard the horse bucks, and the length of spurring stroke. Disqualified: If the rider touches the animal, themselves, or their equipment with their free hand, if either foot slips out of a stirrup, if they drop the bronc rein, or if the rider’s feet are in the wrong position at the start of the ride. Calf Scramble - 10 calves are released into the arena where 20 youth competitors chase and try to catch a calf! Tie Down Roping The rider chases a calf on horseback, ropes the calf, runs to the animal and ties any three of the animal’s legs together. Disqualified: If calf roper breaks the barrier at the beginning of the run.

American Bank Center

What to Wear? Aside from some of the “stereotypical” rodeo attire, all are encouraged to have fun with it, wear what is comfortable, and step out of your comfort zone and sport some boots and a cowboy hat even

Thursday

April 27th 5 pm: Kids Corral Interactive Zone (Mutton Bustin, Food Truck, Live Music & More) 7 pm: Rodeo Corpus Christi Followed by Dwight Yoakam 10:30 pm: Buckin' Marlin Saloon

After Party

if that’s not your norm.

Friday

April 28th Spectators:

5 pm: Kids Corral Interactive Zone (Mutton Bustin, Food Truck, Live Music & More) 7 pm: Rodeo Corpus Christi Followed by Aaron Watson

Cowboy boots, jeans, cowboy hat just about anything to get you in that rodeo spirit!

10:30 pm: Buckin' Marlin Saloon After Party with Steven James & the Jaded

Saturday

April 29th 5 pm: Kids Corral Interactive Zone (Mutton Bustin, Food Truck, Live Music & More) 7 pm: Rodeo Corpus Christi Followed by William Clark Green

Riders: Chaps and a protective vest for rough stock events (bull, bareback and bronc riding) and jeans and spurs for other timed events.

10:30 pm: Buckin' Marlin Saloon After Party

Sunday

April 30th 9 am: Cowboy Church 10 am: Cowboy Breakfast 10:30 am: Domingo Live

(Broadcast from outside American Bank Center)

12 pm: Kids Corral Interactive Zone (Mutton Bustin, Food Truck, Live Music & More)

2 pm: Rodeo Corpus Christi Followed by Siggno 5:30 pm: Buckin' Marlin Saloon

After Party

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UNLIKE A NY OT H E R SHOULD HAPPEN

A DAY

AT A PL AC E U N L I KE A N Y OT H ER.

Bring your dream wedding to life with Omni. From sunset ceremonies with views of the bay to ballroom parties featuring delectable cuisine, the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel is committed to giving you a day nothing short of spectacular. Leave the details to us while you relax and enjoy the perfect destination for your perfect day.

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O M N IH OT E L S . C OM / COR P US CH R ISTI 361-887-1600

Health APRIL 2017

FITNESS 60 BE WELL 62

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside Surfing in the Coastal Bend has a rich history that dates back to the early 1960s, and Brad Steph was there, paving the way for the culture in Corpus. Today, thousands of Texas surfers enjoy the waves up and down the Gulf Coast. Our surf and Steph are two treasures we have to share.

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Health | Fitness

Vitamin Sea

Sometimes the earliest memories have the largest impacts By: Alexis De Leon Photos: Rachel Durrent

Surfing Etiquette:

Never drop in on another surfer’s wave (the most important law of surfing). If new to the line-up, wait your turn to drop in on a set. Staying safe while surfing boils down to 4 basics. 1. Know your limitations. If you aren’t a strong swimmer, stay away from the big surf. You should be able to swim a half mile in the ocean without tiring. 2. Understand the hazards of surfing and how to spot them. Learn how to spot rip currents, understand the area whether it be reefs, rocks, jetties, or floa-

t was around the age of four that Brad Steph recalls playing in the waves around Bob Hall Pier with his parents. “My parents split up, and my dad moved to Galveston. I then kind of had dual citizenship, staying with my dad some and my mom some. It was while in Galveston, in the summer of 1963, that I started surfing. My dad took my stepbrother and me to 25th Street next to the Flagship pier, and we rented boards from Mr. Dalbosco, who had a surf shop nearby.” Though the rich history of surfing stretches back long before even the United States, it is constantly finding new life with each generation. “The 1960s was an amazing time of transition in surfing. When I started in `63, the boards were on average 10' long and heavy, easy to ride but hard to perform on. By 1968, the short board revolution was in full swing. We were trying everything possible

56 The Bend

ting debris like large logs etc. 3. Be familiar with rescue skills. Being CPR certified is crucial when dealing with unpredictable conditions. 4. Stay alert. The tides can change rapidly with gentle waves suddenly becoming gnarly. If in doubt don’t paddle out.

and some things [thought to be] impossible,” Steph recalls. Surfers traveled up and down the coast of Texas, to Mexico, and California, some even ventured to Hawaii in search of waves. “By 1970, I had settled on a 6'10" Brewer single fin. This was a state-of-the-art surfboard made by a world famous surfer/craftsman from Hawaii, Dick Brewer,” Steph explains. “It was a time of experimentation in surfboard design and riding style. As surfers, we became kind of like a tribe, making friends with other surfers where ever we went. There was also a contest scene that developed in Texas in the `60s with the Gulf Coast Surfing Association.” Steph surfed in Texas competitively for about 4 years before moving to California. As popular then as now, Horace Caldwell Pier in Port Aransas was a hot spot for

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surfers, because the waves there are better suited to the old longboard style of surfing. “As far as my part in all of that, I was just one of hundreds of kids who enjoyed the beach and the surfing lifestyle. Actually, my first job, at age 15, was renting out surfboards just south of Bob Hall Pier. I worked for a fellow named Joe Layton. He had a trailer full of old 9’ 8" longboards. During the summer, he would drop me and the trailer off at the beach on Friday afternoon and come back on Sunday afternoon. Times were different then, a lot more relaxed. The following summer, I had my driver’s license and hauled the trailer out there myself. I spent pretty much every day and night out there for two months,” Steph remembers. “I started competing again in 1999, and managed to get a few State Championships in the Legends division, and one 4th place in the United States Championships,” Steph says. However, while Steph has had a few accomplishments displayed at the Texas Surf Museum over the years, he is most proud of his son, Micah Steph, who has made a name for himself in the world of surfing.

Surfs Up Brazil:

In 1967, Steph entered college at the Texas Maritime Academy for summer school. That summer, he boarded the Texas Clipper and went to the Caribbean and Brazil. Two other students and he happened to bring their surfboards along. Upon arriving to Rio de Janeiro, they asked around if there were any beaches with waves. They ended up at Arpoador. During their two weeks there, they

never saw another surfboard. People they met said that other surfers had been there, but no one had a board. They ended up leaving their boards with some local kids just before leaving. Forty-five years later, Steph re-visited the area with his wife, who is from Rio de Janeiro, and there is a bronze statue at Arpoador of a surfer. The inscription says that it is the birthplace of surfing in Rio.

Steph attributes his good health to surfing, along with stretching and meditation as well as a clean diet. He tends to gravitate toward simple ingredient foods, and nothing from a box. Now, living within walking distance to the beach, the seasoned surfer tries to catch waves any chance he gets. Steph says, “I think after you do something well and do it long enough, it becomes who you are, not what you do.”

History: English sailors first

witnessed men, women, and children riding waves around 1778. Some of the first surfboards seen in Hawaii were 16 feet long and weighed as much as 150 lbs.

匀琀愀琀攀漀昀琀栀攀䄀爀琀䘀甀攀氀椀渀最匀礀猀琀攀洀䈀愀琀栀䠀漀甀猀攀 ☀ 䈀爀漀欀攀爀伀昀ǻ挀攀匀栀椀瀀匀琀漀爀攀愀渀搀䴀愀爀椀渀愀伀昀ǻ挀攀

㌀㘀㄀ⴀ㜀㈀㤀ⴀ㠀㈀㘀㐀

眀眀眀⸀欀攀礀愀氀氀攀最爀漀洀愀爀椀渀愀⸀挀漀洀

䬀攀礀䄀氀氀攀最爀漀䴀愀爀椀渀愀㌀㜀䴀愀稀愀琀氀愀渀刀漀挀欀瀀漀爀琀Ⰰ 吀攀砀愀猀㜀㠀㌀㠀㈀

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Health | Be Well

“What really makes this project work is the information they get inside, and the case management of having someone follow up with them about their health.”

Thinking Inside the Box Good things come in small packages By: Alexis Mays Photo: Rachel Durrent

he Box Project local initiative is giving babies and families the best start in life.

Each box contains necessities for their specific stage of life, such as vitamins, feminine hygiene products and plenty of resources.

A local nonprofit organization is thinking inside the box when it comes to addressing our community’s health needs.

Although this program is brand new to the Coastal Bend, it began almost 80 years ago in Finland.

The Women’s and Men’s Health Services of the Coastal Bend has launched an initiative called The Box Project, where patients are given a box filled with items and information about health, fitness and family planning. This project is creating a strong foundation for men, women and babies.

Finland introduced The Baby Box in 1938 to reduce their country’s high infant mortality rates. The baby boxes helped bring their rate down to one of the lowest in the world.

“There’s a box for each type of patient we see,” says Christina Bonner, Special Projects Director, WAMHS. “We have five different kinds available: General women’s and men’s, maternal or pre-pregnancy and for babies.”

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The Women’s and Men’s Health Services of the Coastal Bend is proud to offer The Baby Box to help Corpus Christi and the surrounding area reduce infant mortality rates and increase prenatal education. This package is filled with essentials for babies and useful education for moms. The most important part is the mattress at the bottom, which turns the box itself a bassinette. A bassinette is a safe place

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for infants to sleep, because they sleep alone and on their backs, which can dramatically reduce sleep-related deaths. “It’s a place for your baby to sleep anywhere.” Bonner adds. “This box is lightweight and portable, which means it can sit wherever. It’s a portable crib.” Although the project circles around boxes, the real impact is the education and support. “What really makes this project work is the information they get inside, and the case management of having someone follow up with them about their health,” says Bonner. “They’re so thankful someone took the time to reach out to them and ask how they’re doing.” The Box Project is currently funded with donations, sponsorships, and grants. Their goal for this year is to be able to give every patient the package that’s right for them.

Learn more about The Box Project at wamhs.org. Interested in sponsoring a box? Contact the program director at cbonner@wamhs.org.

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STOP BY AND SEE THE NEW EXPANSION [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Special Promotion

Margret Bamford, of the Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation, accepts a Christ the Healer statue as Nancy Beauchamp, chair of the CHRISTUS Spohn Foundation Board of Directors, looks on

Marty and Becky Davis and Elizabeth and Jerry Susser

Margret Bamford, Patti Young and Debbie Hevner

Dr. Osbert Blow, Karen Urban and Margret Bamford

Donor Recognition Reception The CHRISTUS Spohn Health System Foundation hosted its ninth annual Donor Recognition Reception at the Corpus Christi Yacht Club. The reception serves as a celebration for donors who have left a lasting legacy through annual and cumulative giving to the Foundation and to CHRISTUS Spohn’s Health Care Ministry. Speakers at this year’s event included Dominic J. Dominguez, President and CEO of CHRISTUS Spohn; Karen Bonner, Vice President for Philanthropy of the CHRISTUS Spohn Foundation; and Margret Bamford, Administrator with the Kleberg Foundation. Among those recognized included The Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation, who were honored for their charitable contributions throughout the years. The Robert J. Kleberg family was instrumental in the creation of the Spohn Sanitarium by donating the land on North Beach for the original building in 1905, CHRISTUS Spohn leaders said.

60 The Bend

By: Will Leschper

The Robert J. Kleberg, Jr. and Helen C. Kleberg Foundation has provided grants for many of the latest technological advances at CHRISTUS Spohn hospitals. Their generosity has provided for the CyberKnife for cancer treatment; CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital-Kleberg’s Emergency Department and upgrades to the Mother-Baby Services at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi – South. Most recently, they have donated towards the new Level II Trauma Center currently being constructed at CHRISTUS Spohn-Hospital Corpus Christi-Shoreline. Foundation leaders said the annual event serves as a “Thank you” to donors and recognizes their generosity which will benefit South Texans for generations to come. Learn more about the CHRISTUS Spohn Foundation at www.christusspohnfoundation.org.

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Home & Garden APRIL 2017

OPEN HOUSE 68 SPACES 70 GARDENING 73

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside Admire this beautiful coastal home filled with incredible art from local Rockport artists. Best of all, this home will be available for you to tour in this month's Rockport parade of homes, along with four other homes and even a boat!

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Home & Garden | Open House

A House of Color The 2017 Rockport Tour of Homes features one particular home covered in colorful paintings and art from all around Rockport By: Jordan Regas Photos: Jason Page

riving up to the home of Warren and Cheryl Williams on 106 Boardwalk in the Watermark development of Rockport feels like stepping out of a black and white movie into a world full of color. The landscape, covered in bright plants and flowers, and the row of pastel rocking chairs across the front porch are just the first signs of a home that is colorful from the inside out. Beautiful paintings full of vibrant yellows, oranges, greens, and reds cover the walls of the Williams’ home. The furniture is hand painted, making this home a perfect addition to this year’s Rockport Tour of Homes. The Williams’ love of color was actually born in Rockport around the time Warren began losing his vision. The Williams family loved making trips to Rockport from their home in New Braunfels. They decided it would be a good investment to purchase a second home here. They loved the shopping, local art galleries, and both the grandchildren and great-grandchildren loved trips to the beach. They purchased their first home in Heron’s Nest. Shortly after their first participation in the Rockport Tour of Homes, they put the home up for sale and it sold in only a day or two, along with their furniture and paintings. “We thought why do we need all of our furniture if we aren’t living on the coast. So we eliminated all of our artwork, all of our furniture,” he says.

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They were without a home in Rockport for nearly four years when the itch to have a home on the coast returned. In 2014, they started looking and found the small subdivision of Waterside, composed of only 16 houses on one street all built by local builder, Jim Nelson. The home and the yard were both a blank slate when they moved in, so they decided to start from scratch. Most of the furniture in the home is made by David Marsh of Houston. “Judy Barclay from Comforts of Home helped on the design and linen choices,” Cheryl says. The Williams made a trip to Santa Fe looking for David Marsh furniture and found a lady named Ann Winkler who hand paints furniture. They saw a bed style that worked for the upstairs bed. “We liked it and decided it worked for all the beds. So we had all the beds made by them. We sent the linens for each bed to the artist, so you can see the patterns match,” she says. An assortment of local works of art collaborates wonderfully together to make the home’s interior pop with pigment. It’s almost like walking through a private Rockport art gallery. Their daughter-in-law likes to call this their alter-ego home, because it’s totally different from their home in New Braunfels. When Warren Williams walks in the front door of his home, he can hardly see

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IF YOU GO: 28TH Annual Rockport Tour of Homes (self-guided tour) Saturday, April 8 – Sunday, April 9 – 10 am – 4 pm on Saturday and 11 am – 4 pm on Sunday. Tour includes five homes and one boat located throughout Rockport, Texas $20 per ticket the day-of or 2 tickets for $35 through 4pm April 7th

For information or tickets, visit

www.RockportTourOfHomes.com

or call 361-729-5519

Tickets available online or purchased at the Rockport Center for the Arts or any of the homes during the tour.

anything. His eyes are slow to adjust to the light. “I have eye problems that have caused some loss of vision, but I can see the color, the reds and yellows and oranges,” he says. “When you’re on the coast, you've got to have a lot of color.” Many of the paintings are by Lisa Baer Frederick, a local artist, and Brother Cletus, who often traveled to the Coastal Bend to paint. However, that is only scratching the surface. Along with the many beautiful paintings is a collection of pottery figures above kitchen cabinets by Betty Shamel and two driftwood fish carvings by Dale Bunting hanging in the living room. “We like to buy the local art. It makes it more fun,” Cheryl says. The colorful landscape is full of beautiful plants, talavera animals, and a handcrafted stone bench from Terlingua, Texas. A stone path wraps all the way around the house accompanied by arrangements of colorful hibiscus, hawthorn, schefflera, and plumeria. The home features a downstairs master with two

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guest rooms upstairs and a play area. “We can live totally downstairs and never go upstairs,” says Cheryl. “But upstairs we have two rooms, a bath, and a play area for the kids and grandkids.” Branching off from the living room is a comfortable sun porch. A large Brother Cletus painting hangs on the wall opposite the glass sliding door looking out onto the landscape. Also, hanging in the sun porch is a mirror made from old boats and painted Basura (or garbage) furniture by David Marsh. Better stated, "Basura" furniture is made from scrap slates either painted or stained. The home will be decked with an Alice in Wonderland “Mad Hatter” theme in this year’s home tour. The Williams family decided to make it fun, starting outside with croquet in the yard and inside with a kitchen tablescape full of crumpets and freshly cut flowers. The Williams are excited to be a part of the Rockport Tour of Home again, but this time, they don’t plan on selling their vivid home anytime soon.

thebendmag.com

Home & Garden | Spaces

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Overlook a Breakfast Nook Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sunday Brunch or weekday breakfast, a cozy breakfast nook creates a special family space. By: Jo Anne Howell Photos: Rachel Durrent

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Get the Look... At Coastal Closet, Port Aransas: • Pillows • Dinnerware • Charger plates • Glassware • Placemats • Napkins & napkin rings • Pitcher • Tray Location: Blue Crab House at Cinnamon Shore

breakfast nook is spaced right off the kitchen making it easy to serve and place settings. Lots of windows are a must have so the morning light can filter in making for the perfect start to the day. Not just for Sunday morning, breakfast nooks can be used every day! Comfortable seating and ample table space is needed. A built-in banquette like this one at Blue Crab at Cinnamon Shore is perfect. Navy leather padded

cushions make for plush seating. Adding fluffy pillows helps coordinate the look, creating a warm and welcoming spot. Chairs opposite the window seating add for three more guests, the perfect gathering spot for that morning meal. Our traditional look accents its coastal surroundings with this coral design dinner ware and navy embroidered napkins with coral napkin ring. A navy pitcher is used for fresh spring tulips as fresh baked blueberry muffins await on a blue crab inspired tile tray.

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Home & Garden | Gardening

Busy as a Bee

Walk through any garden in the Coastal Bend and you’ll find bees. Sweat Bees, Bumbles, Chimney, Carpenter, all sorts of bees! But the honeybee gets the most attention. By: Dennis Gray Photos: Rachel Durrent

hat’s because we rely on honeybees for crop pollination, and although most of the industrial crops in the Coastal Bend go to materials and animal feeds, backyard gardens focus on food crops for families. Even if you’re planting ornamentals, anything with a flower is likely to bring bees to your yard. Honeybees were introduced to North America in the 1600s when European settlers brought them. Honeybees established themselves here and then moved across the continent faster than the settlers. Native American peoples call the honeybee “the white man’s fly.” Bees were stopped at the Rocky Mountains because of the climate, but when the frontier expanded past the range, we brought the bees along too. The purpose of honeybees for early settlers was somewhat different than their purpose now. Before electric lights, honeybees provided a valuable wax for candles. And of course, they made golden sweet honey! Crop pollination as a business purpose came later, and then expanded to the industrial scale we see today, where 1.8 million bee colonies are transported around the country each year. Here in the Coastal Bend, most beekeeping is the set-down type, focused on honey production or small field pollination. Most beekeepers in the area

68 The Bend

are hobby or backyard beekeepers, but a few “sideliners” are raising significant amounts of honey for sale locally. Truly local honey is scarce. For gardeners, the question is always, what can we do to attract or help bees? During the Spring and Fall, when rain is plentiful, the bees won’t need help, but during the Summer dry, and the Winter cold, gardeners can plant flowering plants to help bees. Beekeepers call these times “dearths,” when wild forage is lacking in an area. To fix the problem, think summer squash and melons. Let the weeds grow and flower. High on the list of bee needs in the dearths is water. Bees keep their hive cool in the summer by spreading water on the combs and fanning it with their wings. In the Winter, bees need water too. You can provide water in any bird bath or bowl, but add a landing place for them by floating wood or adding marbles or rocks. Lava Rocks work great for bee-waterers. If you’re interested in keeping bees yourself, make certain you have the time to devote to their care. New colonies are especially vulnerable and often require beekeeper attention and intervention. They can really add to your garden productivity and sweeten the deal in the end!

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Did you know? The Coastal Bend Beekeepers Association meets the first Thursday of each month at the Garden Senior Center. Each month, they present educational programs that focus on bees and beekeepers. Meetings are open to the public and free. The group has about 60 members (each membership covers the whole family) and about 65% currently keep bees at home. The membership includes bee removers and honey producers. The rest are just folks who are interested in bees. Later this year, the Beekeepers will host a special event, “Beescapes,” with Becky Bender, a Texas Master Naturalist and beekeeper. Her presentation is based on analyzing honey from our area to scientifically ID the pollen sources, so we can know the exact plants visited by our bees. Gardeners will not want to miss this important event.

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CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE, P.A.

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70 The Bend

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CAL1187791

Special Advertising Section

REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS & FINE PROPERTIES Looking for the perfect Real Estate Agent to help you sell or buy a home? Meet our local real estate experts and discover the finest homes for sale around the Coastal Bend.

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2016 Padre Island Business of the Year Coastline Properties Sales & Rentals

For 20+ years, Coastline Properties has welcomed Cheri Sperling Betheny Bell buyers, sellers, and renters into the homey and (361) 774-3171 (361) 658-1092 bbell@stx.rr.com neighborly family that owner Cheri Sperling has sperling@coastline-properties.com fostered. Geographically and economically, a lot Tara Gallaspy Mary Scruton (361) 652-1950 (361) 658-8181 has changed over the last two decades, but Coastline taragallaspy@gmail.com maryscruton@ymail.com Propertiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; commitment to service has always been Stacey Oliver Victoria Rogers the top priority. ALL members of the team will go (325) 423-1324 (361) 548-6804 above and beyond to make each and every client as staceyoliver13@hotmail.com victoria@gulfscapes.com comfortable and as informed as possible. For a smooth Whitney Noble Michael Lambert experience from start to finish, Coastline Properties (847) 830-2087 (361) 510-4635 will be your power source, your advocate, your eyes, comecoastawhile@gmail.com npadrebreal@gmail.com and your ears. Each Real Estate Agent and the Property Robbie Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Quinn Tina Canary Management Team has the knowledge, charisma, and (830) 275-3071 (361) 445-9889 vigor to get the job done, and get it done right. Search robertoquinn00@gmail.com 3rdcoastrealtortina@gmail.com no further, let Coastline Properties be your specialist Meagan Furey for the Corpus Christi, Padre Island, and Coastal Bend (720) 308-6577 Real Estate Marketplace. Their performance will move fureymeagan@gmail.com you! Come Coast Awhile... View amazing tours & photos at

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[the lifestyle magazine of |the Corpus coastal bend] 14717 South Padre Island Drive Christi, Texas 78418 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

72 The Bend 62 The Bend

14205 Almeria Ave. Corpus Christi, TX 78418 Room to Move Around | Pool & Hot Tub | 3 Car Garage 5 BD/4 BA | 4,815 sq. ft. | $950,000

110 Mariners Dr. Port Aransas, TX 78373 Walk to the Beach | Elevator | Gorgeous Gulf Views 3 BD/4 BA | 3,636 sq. ft. | $995,900

15121 Cane Harbor Blvd. Corpus Christi, TX 78418 Exclusive Subdivision | 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122; of Water Frontage | Pool 4 BD/3.5 BA | 3,045 sq. ft. | $799,900

15361 Key Largo Ct. Corpus Christi, TX 78418 Fingertip Lot | Breathtaking Water Views | Amazing Sunsets 3 BD/2.5 BA | 2,270 sq. ft. | $775,000

15206 Isla Pinta Ct. Corpus Christi, TX 78418 2 Master Suites | Courtyard Pool | Panoramic Windows 4 BD/3.5 BA | 3,285 sq. ft. | $724,900

13725 Cayo Gorda Ct. Corpus Christi, TX 78418 Lot and a Half | Room for a Pool | Amazing Water Views 3 BD/2.5 BA | 1,766 sq. ft. | $549,900

13529 Carlos Fifth Ct. Corpus Christi, TX 78418 266 Beachwalk Ln. Port Aransas, TX 78373 Open Floor Plan | Freshly Painted Exterior | Waterfront Southern Style Front Porch | Steps to the Beach [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]4 BD/2.5 BA | 2,011 sq. ft. thebendmag.com 3 BD/2.5 BA | 2,287 sq. ft. | $570,000 | $459,000 73 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Betheny Bell

Cheri Sperling

Mary Scruton

OFFICE: 361.949.0101

PHONE: 361.949.0101

CELL: 361.658.1092 EMAIL: bbell@stx.rr.com

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Waterfront Mediterranean Villa complete with a gorgeous chef’s kitchen, panoramic windows, high ceilings, and a pool. Nothing to do but grab your things and Come Coast Awhile...

Elegant 3-story home with a state of the art elevator and just steps to the beach! This resort style home will make every day feel like a vacation. Come Coast Awhile...

4BD/3.5BA | 3,045 sq ft | $799,900

3BD/4BA | 3,636 sq ft | $995,900

Stacey Oliver

Tara Gallaspy

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Incredibly well maintained waterfront home with multi-level decking and a boat lift! Grab your ﬁshing gear and Come Coast Awhile…

Gorgeous Beach House with open concept, lots of natural light and Southern-style front porch. Fully furnished so bring your clothes and toothbrush and Come Coast Awhile...

Dream and build BIG on one of the largest beachfront lots left on Mustang Island. With this ideal location, build to your exact desire, as the opportunities are as endless as the ocean views!

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4BD/2.5BA | 2,011 sq ft | $459,900

0.8362 Acre Lot | $350,000

15901 San Felipe Dr. Corpus Christi, Tx 78418 Breathtaking waterfront residence with an in-ground pool, boat lift, 3 car garage, RV side parking, plus amazing water views! A truly magniﬁcent home on North Padre Island! Come Coast Awhile... 3BD/3.5BA | 2,723 sq ft | $699,900

74 The Bend

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and Innovati Coral Dworaczyk, M.S., Ph.D., REALTOR realestatebycoral.com 979-229-2836 cell Erin Rich, REALTOR 361-947-1572 cell

Coral went above & beyond... her knowledge & professionalism made a significant impact on making offers and negotiation. We had a very positive experience.” - C. Martin, Corpus Christi

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Beautiful 4/2.5/2 Northshore home on HUGE lot (0.2 acres) Upgrades and extras include granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, kitchen island, custom hardwood cabinetry, huge pantry, and covered patio. $298,500

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Corpus Christi, TX 78404

Beautiful historic Bessar Park home! This lovely estate features warm hardwood flooring, an expansive gourmet kitchen, and a luxurious sunlit master suite with dressing room and glamorous bath. Generous patio and garden is perfect for year around entertaining. Main home features 5 bedrooms and 3 full baths. Detached 1/1 guest house. $599,900

15422 Big Cyprus Bayou Corpus Christi, TX 78410

Beautiful Calallen 5/2/5/2! All the high-end finishes that you want-- including granite countertops, crown moulding, tile floors, walk-in closets, and a large luxurious master suite. Gourmet kitchen with gas appliances. This home has been very well-maintained and looks like new! $264,900

Shirley Kirmse OFFICE: 361.729.3691 CELL: 361.557.0579 EMAIL: shirleykirmse@gmail.com

Coastal Bend Homes

27 Finisterre Rockport, Tx 78382

331 Meldo Park Dr. Corpus Christi, Tx 78411

This wonderful “mid-century” style Premiere location on Key Allegro’s home is seconds from the bay, has an private gated Finisterre Drive offering open ﬂoor plan, large living/dining, unobstructed Aransas Bay views in vaulted ceilings, brick ﬁreplace, front and canal side boat docking in glassed sun room w/wet bar & a large the back. Elevator and pool. screened-in porch. 4BD/5BA | 3,979 sq ft | $1,575,000 4BD/3BA | 2,416 sq ft | $259,500

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A simple, effective way to showcase your finest properties! For more information call Chris Knapick at (361) 792-3606 thebendmag.com

361.729.3691 1798 Bay Shore Dr. Rockport, TX 78382 KEYALLEGRO.COM CAREER OPPORTUNITIES for licensed Real Estate AGENTS. Join the TOP SALES FORCE in Aransas County!

MLS 127114

•

$797,000

MLS 126675

•

$1,300,000

MLS 126690

•

$1,575,000

Fabulous family waterfront retreat in Harbor Oaks. Every detail custom designed for ease of entertainment to accommodate festivities for 200 guests on the waterfront.

One of the best locations on Key Allegro Island. This magnificent home is located on a private drive offering an unobstructed Aransas Bay view in the front and boat docking in the back.

John Kidwell 361.548.3691

Carla Krueger-Rinche 361.463.9285

MLS 124043

•

$499,000

MLS 126797

•

$479,000

Enjoy coastal living at its best in this fabulous Key Allegro canal home. Spacious with many updates. Selling furnished and move-in ready!

This charming Cape Cod style canal home on Key Allegro Island was built in 2000. Full of high end features. Open design and high ceilings allow natural light to cascade into the home.

Beautiful home with marvelous pier in Copano Ridge. Wrap around deck gives you plenty of outdoor living space and forever bay views. Offered furnished.

Mindy Durham 361.729.4591

Mimi Nieschwietz 361.463.6673

Rebecca Bagby 361.463.9026

MLS 127543

•

$375,000

MLS 127447

•

$999,900

MLS 121263

•

$399,000

Simply stunning home in gated residence of Heron’s Roost located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on a homesite that opens out to an expansive backyard full of tall oaks and beautiful landscaping.

Key Allegro Island home with exceptional Little Bay views, incredible sunset and dolphins out your back door. Top of the line remodel inside and out!

Magnificent bay front lot on St. Charles Bay. Fishing & sunrises you won’t believe! Exclusive gated community including 450’ lighted community pier, boardwalk and day boat slips.

Sandy Swanson 361.463.1293

Shirley Kirmse 361.557.0579

Robin Martin 361.463.1079

76 The Bend

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668 Moray | $224,900 | 3/2/2

901 N. Upper Broadway #502 | $299,900 | 2/2.5 235 Ohio | $399,900 | 4/2.5/2

8002 El Chiflon | $412,000 | 4/3/3

125 Ropes | $650,000 | 4/3/2 | Pool

10 Hewit | $750,000 |-Vacant lot 3436 Newcastle $569,900

De 5/3.5/3 3438 Denver | $1,050,000 | 5/4.5/4 | Pool | Pool

2121 Oso Bay Ranch - $1,498,500

5810 Ocean Drive - $1,725,000

3/3.5/4 | Waterfront | Approx. 8 acres

4/5/2 | Waterfront | Pool

149 Rossiter | $275,000 | 3/2

668 Moray | $224,900 | 3/2/2

901 N. N. Upper Upper Broadway 901 Broadway#502 #502|| $279,900 $299,900| |2/2.5 2/2.5

235 Ohio | $399,900 | 4/2.5/2| 4/2/2 490 Carmel Parkway | $298,000 8002 El Chiflon | $412,000 | 4/3/3 235 Ohio | $385,000 | 4/2.5/2

125 Ropes | $650,000 | 4/3/2 | Pool

10 Hewit $750,000 | approx. 1 acre vacant lot 10|Hewit | $750,000 | Vacant lot

4146 Flour BluďŹ&#x20AC; - $1,999,000 2/2 | Barn & Residence | Approx. 80 acres

De | $750,000 3438 Denver | $1,050,000 | Pool| Pool 11 Great Lakes | 5/5.5/4| |5/4.5/4 Waterfront

4500 Ocean Drive - $785,000 3/4/3 | Two Condos at Landmark 5A & 5B

PROUDLY WELCOMES Jim Villaume & Aaron Guevara

Garron Dean & John Wallace strategically continues their companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth with the addition of two Broker Associates - Aaron Guevara and Jim Villaume, CCIM, MAI. Jim joins us with over 25 years of commercial brokerage and appraisal real estate experience in the Coastal Bend region. Jim previously owned Steve Roberts Realty, which was acquired by Dean & Wallace to support the next generation of commercial

agents, like Guevara. Aaron brings over 15 years of marketing experience, 12 of them as a highly successful residential agent. Wanting to add to his commercial experience and with the support of experienced Brokers standing behind him, Aaron intends to incorporate an innovative approach to our team by leveraging technology & social media to provide superior service to our clients.

Experience the Difference visit www.DeanAndWallace.com or Call 361.884.3950

LOTS FROM $90K AND CUSTOM HOMES STARTING IN THE $400 FOR SALE LOTS FROM $90K AND CUSTOM HOMES STARTING IN THE $400’S.

• WATER FRONT LOTS

FOR • Water Front Lots • 1/2 INFORMATION Acre Home Sites • Exquisite Custom Builders CONTACT • Masterfully Developed Subdivision

• 1 / 2 ACRE HOME SIT

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with High Elevation • Water Front Picnic Site

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• MASTERFULLY DEVEL SUBDIVISION WITH H ELEVATION

For more information contact: Realtor

JON FINLEY REALTOR

361.290.2018 361-290-2018

• WATER FRONT PICNI

902 PYRAMID DR, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78412

5126 QUEENS CT, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78413

Woodlawn Elementary | Meadowlark Park 4BD/2BA | MLS 308526 | $219,000

Jones Elementary | Court of St. James 4BD/2.5BA | MLS 303646 | $234,900

Listing Agent: JOSEPH CORTEZ 361.537.8959

7805 KINGSHIRE DR, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78413

3641 W.L. BREEDING DR, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78414

Jones Elementary | Camelot 3BD/2.5BA | MLS 307365 | $238,000

Kolda Elementary | The Cottages at South Lake 3BD/2BA | MLS 308231 | $164,400

Listing Agent: SHARON HAIRGROVE 361.438.2231

Listing Agent: VALERIA FORD 361.290.9355

JOSEPH CORTEZ Broker and Franchisee Cell: 361.537.8959 Ofﬁce: 361.356.7348 josephmcortez@gmail.com

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79 EXIT REALTY BAY AREA

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361.949.7077 14945 S. PADRE ISLAND DR. CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78418 WWW.CBIR.COM Another Day in Paradise. That about sums up my outlook on life. Hi, I’m Charlie Knoll. I’ve been an agent with Coldwell Banker Island, Realtors since 2002. Let me help you find your place in the sun, whether it be a home, condo, townhome, or lot; I’ll put your needs first and look out for your best interests. I’m experienced in all the Island, Flour Bluff, and Coastal Bend affords. I’m available any time and willing to go the extra mile to assure you are comfortable and satisfied during your Real Estate transaction. Call me today and let’s get started - your paradise awaits! • Sales Manager/Broker Associate • Licensed since 2002 • Multi-Million Dollar Producer 2002-2017 • Member of Coldwell Banker International President’s Circle • Chairman of the Corpus Christi Board of Realtors 2015 • Member of Corpus Christi Association of Realtors

• Member of Texas Association of Realtors • Member of National Association of Realtors

80 The Bend

TERRY COX LISTINGS:

13722 A LA ENTRADA

15350 YARDARM

Corpus Christi, Tx 78418

Located on Wide Canal Gourmet Kitchen | Dramatic Fireplace Cathedral Ceilings | Office | 2 Car Garage

Waterfront Home | Two Living Areas Two Dining Areas | Boat Dock | Tile Roof Stucco Construction | New Tile Downstairs

3BD/4BA | 3,769 sq ft | $1,150,000

3BD/2.5BA | 2,031 sq ft | $399,000

15958 PUNTA ESPADA

14253 ALLAMANDA

Corpus Christi, Tx 78418

Upgraded Granite | Lots of Lighting Double Oven | 3 Car Garage

New Construction Quiet Area | Close to Beach

4BD/3BA | 2,575 sq ft | $386,000

3BD/4BA | 1,854 sq ft | $269,000

2301 BETA LANE

PALM BAY VILLAGE #905

Corpus Christi, Tx 78418

15209 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, Tx 78418

EXPERTISE: • Residential Property on Padre Island, Flour Bluff, Corpus Christi & Port Aransas • Interior/Waterfront Lots • Investment Property • Resort Condos

I’m Terry Cox, the Owner/ Broker for Coldwell Banker Island, Realtors. Let me be your specialist to find your place in the sun, whether it be a lot, condo, or the home of your dreams. With over 32 years of experience, I’m a broker who will put your needs first and look out for your best interests. I’m available any time and willing to go the extra mile to assure you are comfortable and satisfied during your Real Estate transaction. Most importantly...working with a broker with integrity, values, and morals whom you can trust and depend on. Call me today to get started. • Owner/Broker • Member of Corpus Christi Association of Realtors • Member of Texas Association of Realtors • Member of National Association of Realtors • Over 32 Years’ Experience • Licensed Realtor since 1985 • Licensed Broker since 1991

CHARLIE KNOLL LISTINGS:

• Member of the President’s Circle • Multi-Million Dollar Producer EXPERTISE: • New Construction • Vacant Building Sites • Waterfront Property • Vacation Property

Great Flour Bluff Location Split Bedrooms | Located on Corner Lot 2 Car Garage

Poolside Townhome | Granite Counters Open Floor Plan | Furnished

3BD/2BA | 1,480 sq ft | $179,900

2BD/2.5BA | 1,481 sq ft | $234,900

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RockpoRt pRopeRties, inc Waterfront Specialists

14 La Buena Vida | $2,250,000 | MLS# 126990

2503 Turkey Neck | $1,995,000 | MLS# 125967

22 Albatross | $2,750,000 | MLS# 127494

1 Blue Heron | $2,235,000 | MLS# 126825

Melissa Richardson | Phyllis Kline | Sam McCrary | Mark Uhr | Jo Smith

www.rockportproperties.com

82 The Bend

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Special Promotion

BART BRASELTON

SPRING HAS SPRUNG S pring has sprung in the Coastal Bend! The bluebonnets are blooming, the weather is windy, but warm, and it’s time to get outside and enjoy our beautiful natural landscape.

Nobody will be enjoying this spring more than the homeowners in our Parkview Neighborhood, as well as those buying in our newest neighborhood on Oso Bay, Osoview at The Preserve. These lucky folks will have direct access to the newly opened Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and Learning Center, which features 162 acres of nature preserve and a learning center that hosts various activities. Homeowners in The Preserve can explore the four miles of nature viewing trails without getting in the car to get there, since it’s just a few steps from their front doors. Monthly activities at the Learning Center include adult yoga, guided nature walks, nature story time, family full moon hikes, family field investigations, and nature and crafting activities. And, the kids will love the new playground, as well as the Summer camps that will also be offered. This is a unique opportunity for residents of the Coastal Bend to truly enjoy the best our area has to offer: gorgeous views of sunsets on Oso Bay, leisure time spent hiking, biking, or just strolling through

Bart Braselton is the Executive Vice President of Braselton Homes, the Coastal Bend’s oldest and largest Homebuilder and Neighborhood Developer. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Bart is the third generation of The Braselton family building in the Bay Area. Returning to Corpus Christi after earning a BBA in Finance, as well as a second degree in Real Estate, from the University of Texas, at Austin, Braselton began working in the family business as a construction superintendent.

the nature preserve… and a brand new Eco-friendly home built just for you. Our in-house interior designer will make sure your BraseltonBuilt Eco Home has just the coastal chic look that fits your style, and our floorplans will ensure that the right mix of shared and private space for each member of your family is met. Come on out to the Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and explore all it has to offer. Then, stop by our model home, at 2106 Oso Bay Preserve, just off Holly Road, near the park’s trailhead entry point, and see where you could be living! And, early next month, our newest model home will open nearby, in Osoview, for you to come and check out. See all that this neighborhood, and the Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve has to offer, and secure your own piece of our natural habitat, right here, in Corpus Christi. With easy access to SPID, via Paul Jones, and to Rodd Field Road, down Holly, getting to this neighborhood, and the Nature Preserve, has never been easier.

Since then, Braselton Homes has won numerous local, state, and national awards, including the Energy Star Leadership in Housing Award, as well as the Environments for Living Diamond Award for Energy Efficiency. And, the company has grown into one of the Nation’s Largest Homebuilders, earning consistent rankings in the annual lists compiled by both Professional Builder, as well as Builder Magazine. Bart, a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi Class 18, has served on numerous local community and business boards, including the Coastal Bend GreenBuilt Initiative, Bay Area Smart Growth, and the Police Foundation. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Development Corporation, the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, the Builders Association and the Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation. Braselton and his wife, Michelle have 2 young children at home, and are active, with Braselton Homes, in community and church organizations throughout the city, including the American Heart Association, the Food Bank, and CASA of the Coastal Bend.

See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton

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320 W. Avenue G Port Aransas, Tx 78373

Hours Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm Sun: 12pm - 3pm

Phone Showroom: 361.749.0692 Fax: 361.749.0695

84 The Bend

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Out & About APRIL 2017

ARTS & CULTURE 64 CELEBRATION 68 DATE BOOK 74 SOCIAL HOUR 76

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside With all of the festivals and activities our communities offer, you'll find one special woman painting the faces of our children at most of them. Bright, sparkly, and magical, Marianna Chavarria brings even more life and love to smiling faces.

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Out & About | Arts & Culture

Colorful Expression & Design Lily Padz creates memorable events and fun faces

Lily Padz doesn’t stop at face painting! With ingenuity to spare, she creates intricate henna designs, paints the bellies of pregnant women for maternity photo shoots, and takes on any commissioned artwork; there are no limits to her creativity! She loves the vast array of designs available to design sugar skulls, thus making it her favorite design to create. Lily Padz has offered sugar skull painting classes at The Theatrical Boutique and child-friendly painting parties.

By: Jacqueline Gonzalez Photos: Rachel Durrent Laughter, joy, glitter, and a ton of color filled the room of little girls as they anxiously awaited their fairy-themed face designs. “It’s the little things that make such a huge impact the smile on the faces of the children as I began to apply the face paint.” Marianna recalls the day she was invited to paint at the Easter Eggstravaganza held by the South Texas Lighthouse for the Blind. The children love the “feel” of the face paint, so she made sure to take her time on an otherwise quick design, so they would enjoy the entire process. Marianna Chavarria of Lily Padz Face Painting recalls her artistic passion blossoming at a very early age, getting lost amidst the endless lectures in class while flipping the pages of her notebook to doodle. A frugal and financially savvy woman, Chavarria decided to share her passion for art with others and

86 The Bend

start a face painting business. At the time, she was a single mother and wanted to find a career she loved while devoting time to her daughter, Gia. The name Lily Padz shouted happiness and kid-friendly fun, which brings to mind a quote, by Mama Clown, a face painting artist, cherished by Chavarria: “How can I not be happy? Every time I go to work it’s a party!” Chavarria realized that Lily Padz was a must, and she set forth with a plan. Her first Facebook post as Lily Padz read, “Does anyone want face painting?” She began painting at local parties in her hometown of Alice, Texas and quickly expanded her business through social media. The magic soon evolved into large, local family festivals and corporate events and parties. Eventually, she would find her incredible talent being recognized by the community. Sharing a passion for art with the community is

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

extremely important, and she seeks to partake in family festivals filled with food, music, and art. Lily Padz has participated in various local events such as the Food Truck Festival, Dia de los Muertos, The Bend’s Brunch on the Bay, and Fiesta de la Flor where everyone is drawn to the fun designs and quirky personality of the artist. San Antonio and Austin have been, for the longest time, the hot spots for family festivals and Chavarria hopes to put Corpus Christi on the map by getting the word out about local talent. Chavarria aims to someday pass her love of art down to her daughter, Gia. Chavarria beams as she says, “Art gives me a sense of peace and happiness!” With a talent so abundant and a deep love of art, it is difficult to find this combination anyplace else. 361-480-5566 mchavar04@yahoo

Where Every Smile Is A Work Of Art • No Referral Required • Insurance Accepted

Enclave Ofﬁce 5525 S. Staples, Bldg. C Corpus Christi, TX 78411

• Invisalign-Damon-SureSmile • No Interest Payment Plans

Calallen Ofﬁce Five Points Center Across from Hobby Lobby

IngrahamSmiles.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Out & About | Celebration

Build it & They Will Come Friends, family and contractors gathered at the Rocking M Ranch to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new addition.

88 The Bend

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groundbreaking event deserves a groundbreaking event. Guests were invited with an actual blue print of the addition including the party details, party timeline and contractors involved in the building. The 5-page blueprint invitation was rolled up in a tube and wrapped with a blueprint label. Using the “building” theme as guests and contractors arrived, they were handed a time card that listed the evenings events. A tractor trolley transported guests from the entrance to the groundbreaking ceremony site. As guests walked over the bridge, the sun began to set and cast a heavenly shade. A build-your-own beverage bar was waiting and guests took part in “building” a candy-coated lemonade or sweet tea. Hardhats with the ranch's logo sat on antique ladders, and contractors helped themselves to one as well as a custom shovel as they were announced to the dig site. Cheers were heard as the shovels hit the dirt and champagne toasts were made. After the groundbreaking ceremony, guests walked back over the bridge to “Dig In” to amazing food. Beef tenderloin, a buildyour-own macaroni and cheese bar, grilled vegetables and south Texas favorites like quesadillas and gorditas were served.

Food stations were dressed in paint tarps that had been painted for the event as well as ladders that hung above each table with Mason jars that had a blue glow. Who could forget dessert with the light-up-the-night donut flambe. It was a crowd pleaser!! After dinner, the group two-stepped the night away to the Texas sounds of The Tejas Bros. in the Ranch pavilion. There were custom cookies displayed on wrapped paint cans showing the Ranch's own paint logo and colors, Rocking M Red, Blueprint Blue, and Woodsboro Walnut. Shovels held cookies, too, and the display was built on an antique wood cutting table. At each bar, saw horses staged the drinks as antique ladders displayed the word BAR made out of expandable rulers. Paint buckets turned light fixtures hung above the bars offsetting a soothing blue glow. Beautiful greenery and garlands with succulents, thistle, and larkspur dressed the site. Even shovels, signs, and concrete blocks were full of greens. Guests left with a metal lunch box filled with trinkets like a customized notepad, carpenter's pencils, tool-shaped custom chocolate and measuring tape. It was a great night under the stars!

Event Coordinating and Design:

Floral: Blossom Shop

Jo Anne Howell, Oh GoodieDesigns+Events Catering: Don Strange of Texas

Dj, Emcee and custom uplighting: Dance til Dawn Entertainment

Bar Service: Corpus Christi Liquor Catering

Valet: Harbor Parking

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Graphics and Design: Harper Gray for Oh Goodie Designs + Events Photography: Heidi Rae Photography Videography: Joey Puterbaugh Films

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Your Island Real Estate

cbir.com 361.949.7077 SALES

Experts for over 30 Years!

rentpadreisland.com 361.949.2131 LONG TERM RENTALS

padreescapes.com 361.949.0430 VACATION RENTALS

April

Mark Your Calendar

MUSIC

Pops in the Park Apr. 22nd

This year’s concert, presented by Valero Energy Foundation, takes the audience on a “Great American Road Trip.” Guest Conductor, Lee Gwozdz, and the Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra will take the audience on a journey of music across the United States from New York, to Chicago, down to Texas, and out to the Wild Wild West! Buckle up and enjoy the ride! Whataburger Field, (361) 883-6683, ccsymphony.org

ARTS

Steve Davis Exhibit Opening Apr. 22nd

FESTIVAL

Let’s Get Cookin’! A fun and tasty way to support Ronald McDonald House Charities of Corpus Christi and cheer on a cooking team from your community! Before and during the competition, you can vote and rally for your favorite cook. At the event, guests enjoy samples of signature comfort food and gourmet dishes from our hand-selected cooks and cast their votes for their favorite dishes. The Bend’s very own Publisher, Jordan Regas, will be in the competition! 3402 Fort Worth Street, (361) 854-4073, corpuschristirmhc.org

If you love sand castles, then Texas SandFest is the best place in the world to see some of the best sculptors! You’ll love the soothing sounds of the Texas Gulf Coast as you leisurely stroll amid amazing feats of art and architecture. Master sculptors from all over go to Port Aransas, Texas to make pure magic. Port Aransas, (361) 749-2066, texassandfest.org

Men Who Cook Apr. 7th

92 The Bend

Texas SandFest Apr. 21st – 23rd

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To showcase and connect with the active artist community of Port Aransas and surrounding areas, Sunflower Beach will open a portion of its beautiful 2,500 square foot Sales Gallery to be used as a rotating gallery of local artists. From 4 pm – 6 pm, delicious bites from Lisabella’s, carefully selected wines, and live music will add to the day’s festivities. Sunflower Beach, (361) 749-2366, sunflowerbeach.com

editor's pick

MUSIC

CC Songwriters “April Showcase” Apr. 28th

Dedicated to spotlighting some of the best, daring, and uniquely original music, Corpus Christi Songwriters invites four regional songwriters to perform every April, August, and November at some of the best live performance venues in the Coastal Bend. Ritz Theatre, (361) 816-6095, ccsongwriters.com

FESTIVAL

Birdiest Festival in America Apr. 20th – 23rd Named “birdiest city” for a decade, Corpus Christi will hold its inaugural “Birdiest Festival in America,” at the STXBOT, a Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail site. The $35 per person basic registration fee covers six birding talks, vendor tent, arts/crafts booths, “Raptor Project” shows, Botanical Gardens admission, opening reception Mexican fajita dinner, Thursday, April 20; and is required for access to optional, separately-priced features including 13 different field trips, two “big sits,” and barbecue dinner, Saturday, April 22. Food trucks will be on-site for other meals. South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, (361) 852-2100, stxbot.org

FESTIVAL

Rodeo Corpus Christi Apr. 27th

ARTS

Guild Hall Museum Exhibition Through Apr. 30th

This exhibition, from the Guild Hall Museum, East Hampton, New York, includes 73 works of art by 40 artists, honoring them from the past 120 years as they have made East Hampton a thriving center for creative expression and artistic experimentation. Works included in this exhibit are by impressionists, surrealists, abstract expressionists, pop artists, photo realists, `80s and `90s neo-expressionists, and contemporary artists. Paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints, photographs, and mixed-media works trace the progression of art movements in America from Impressionism to experiments by contemporary artists in the 1980s and 1990s. Art Museum of South Texas, (361) 825-3513, artmuseumofsouthtexas.org

Buc Days, along with Miller Lite and the Coastal Bend Chevy Dealers, has been bringing the top Cowboys and Cowgirls in the World to compete against the rankest livestock for 25+ years at Rodeo Corpus Christi. In an action-packed two hours, fans enjoy extreme competition, on-the-edgeof-your-seat action, and the fan-favorite Mutton Bustin’. American Bank Center, (361) 882-3242, bucdays.com

BENEFIT

Noche Latina V Apr. 22nd

An idea that was developed in 2010, the yearly Noche Latina event features tapas cuisine, fine wine and beer in a cash-bar setting, premium cigars, live music, and new this year; a live auction! All proceeds from Noche Latina V benefit West Side Helping Hand of Corpus Christi. The Courtyard at Gaslight Square, (361) 882-1951, nochelatina.org

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Out & About | Social Hour

AAF Addy Awards Photos by: Jason Page

1. Dylan Rios, Brad Snyder, Robert Suggs & Richard Glover 2. Steven Alford, Sharon Sedwick & Brad Snyder 3. Justin Colmenero, Barbi Leo-Salgado, CoCo, Amanda Sanchez & Celeste Torres-Herrera

4. Amanda Garcia, Sarah Gamez & Nancy Miller 5. Ashlee Struchen & Stefanie DeWaters

4. 94 The Bend

5. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

(or one oyster...)

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Out & About | Social Hour

Corpus Christi 40 Under 40 Awards Photos by: Edgar De La Garza, TAMUCC Media

1. Rosie Gonzalez Collin, Christina Hunter & Christianna Romeros 2. Jonathan Torres, Alex Garcia, Samuel Longoria & Ben Molina

1. 2.

3. Todd & Amy Twardowski 4. Dr. Chad Allen, Amy Allen, Dr. Charles Allen, Dawn Allen & Edward Joseph Bacak

96 The Bend

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Cuisine APRIL 2017

FARM TO TABLE 100 DINING GUIDE 105 THE DRINK 106 THE DISH 108

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Inside Passover traditions are wide and varied but all closely held. Lamb is often at the center of the meal. Whether it's prepared in a mediterranean manner, braised, roasted, or crusted, herbs, fruits and olives often accompany this juicy and delightful piece of meat. It's all about tradition, folks.

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Cuisine | Farm to Table

A Taste of Passover with Guest Chef Monty Brecheen

assover has been celebrated, without interruption, for nearly 3,000 years. It is one of the oldest, most celebrated, and most compelling of all the food traditions.

We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know much about Passover until we attended a traditional Passover meal prepared by our friend Monty Brecheen. It was a beautiful meal and an unforgettable experience.

By: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Durrent

Roasted Lamb with Honey-Mint Sauce, Caramelized Carrots, Grilled Squash, and Charoset 100 The Bend

Monty is a Biblical scholar who reads the Old Testament in Koine Greek as well as ancient Hebrew. Monty is also a chaplain and an accomplished chef. We asked him to share his recipes for Passover with The Bend. He said you must first know the story to appreciate the recipes.

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The first Passover was recorded in the Book of Exodus. God commanded the Israelites, held in bondage in Egypt, to mark their doorframes at sunset with the blood of a lamb. That night, the angel of death descended upon Egypt to destroy the first-born in every home, but God passed over the houses with the mark of faith on the door. The Israelites were told to roast the sacrificial lamb that night with bitter herbs. The bitter herbs were to remind them always of the agony of slavery. They were told to eat the meal in haste, fully dressed, staff in hand, ready to leave at a momentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s notice. The Passover meal was an act of faith that God would free the Israelites from slavery.

The lamb, or course, is the center of the Passover meal. Rosemary and thyme, the bitter herbs, are complemented with bright lemon peeland sweet garlic. These flavors come together in a delightfully complex crust on the roasted lamb. Monty then tops the lamb with a sauce made of fresh herbs and sweetened with honey. The effect of these various flavors is an umami taste that is totally unique to this dish. Winter carrots are used to represent the passing season, along with new spring squash to represent the season to come. This pairing signifies the passage of old to new, or bondage to freedom.

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Montyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version of charoset is a relish made from apples, raisins, walnuts, and cinnamon, which he ladles generously over the lamb and vegetables to bring all the flavors of the meal together. Charoset represents the paste that the Israelites slaves used to bind bricks, and the charoset in this meal reminds us of the sweetness of freedom. For some, the Passover meal is an act of faith. For others, it is a cherished family tradition. Whatever inspires you to prepare a Passover meal, you can be sure that it will be a great celebration of flavors.

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Roasted Boneless Leg of Lamb Serves 8-10 1 lemon, zested and juiced (reserve the juice for later use: Below) 1 tablespoon of lemon molido (dried lemon peel) 10 cloves peeled garlic 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary 1 tablespoon fresh thyme 1/4 cup olive oil kosher salt and black pepper to taste 10-14 pound boneless leg of lamb, at room temperature Preheat oven to 450° F. In a food processor, pulse the lemon zest, garlic, 1/4 cup of olive oil, and 1 teaspoon each salt and pepper until coarsely chopped. Place the lamb in a large roasting pan and rub with the lemon mixture. Let sit over night or at least one hour. Roast the lamb 20 minutes at 475°. Reduce heat to 400 and roast 10-15 minutes per pound or until desired doneness e.g medium medium-rare or the internal temperature registers 145° F. When at desired level of doneness, transfer the lamb to a cutting board, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. For lamb chops follow the same process. In serving 4 1-11/2 inch thick chops, cut the marinade by 75%. Roast in a 425° oven for 10 minutes on both sides in a black skillet (20 minutes total or until the desired level of doneness. Remove from oven and allow 10 minutes rest prior to serving.

Sweet Carrots 3 pounds of carrots (with or without stems) 2 tablespoons of olive oil 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

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1/4 stick unsalted butter Salt and pepper 1/8 cup water Cut off the green top of the carrots. Scrub the carrots to remove the thin outer layer of skin exposing the inner color. Cut into 2 inch sections. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, balsamic vinegar and 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Set aside. Use a skillet with a tight-fitting lid. When ready to cook place the butter and water along with the carrots and sauce from the bowl in the skillet and heat on high. When liquid begins to bubble, reduce heat to simmer. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. The process to “al dente” takes about 30 minutes. Turn the carrots into a serving dish and drizzle with the Special Sauce (below.)

Honey-Mint Sauce In the food processor puree: 2 cups of carrot greens or parsley or 1 cup cilantro 1 cup fresh mint 6 green onions, (trim off the loose green leaf) 1 tablespoon of honey Juice of one lemon 1/2 cup olive oil 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper Turn out into a small bowl and serve with the lamb and drizzle on the carrots.

Grilled Yellow Squash 4 medium yellow squash 1/8 cup olive oil 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary Preheat grill or pan on medium high. Cut the squash lengthwise into 1 /2 inch thick steaks. Combine the salt pepper and rosemary with

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the olive oil. Brush the mixture lightly on the squash steak and place on grill/pan. Brush the top with olive oil mixture. Wait for 2 – 3 minutes, turn the squash over and repeat the brush of the exposed side. Turn off the heat and cover. Serve from the pan and brush with the olive oil again if desired.

Charoset This is one of my personal favorite dishes. It is simple to make and it seems everyone loves it. Charoset offers a sweet textured counter to the savory lamb. 1 cup chopped walnuts 1 cup raisins 1/2 cup fresh orange juice 1/4 cup kosher red wine (such as Manischewitz) (Nonalcoholic substitutes work also) 1/4 cup honey 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (lemon molido substitutes) 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Dash of nutmeg, clove to taste (optional) Pinch of brown sugar (optional) kosher salt 2 crisp apples (such as Gala or McIntosh), peeled and roughly chopped Toast the walnuts either in a pan on the stove or in a 350° F oven. Toss occasionally, until fragrant, 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool, then chop if necessary. Reconstitute the raisins by adding them with orange juice in a small pan. Over medium-low heat simmer until almost all orange juice is absorbed. Let cool, then stir in the wine, honey, lemon zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove and 1 /4 teaspoon salt. In a large bowl, combine the apples and walnuts with the raisin mixture. Toss to combine. Cover and let sit for at least 4-6 hours. This can be made ahead of time and serves as a sweet addition to the meal. It should be noted that dates make a delicious addition and are added with the apples.

MAY 4 - 14, 2017

BucDays.com 104 The Bend

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APRIL 27 - 30, 2017

Cuisine | Dining Guide

Dining Guide

Corpus Christi

Padre Island

Port Aransas

Outdoor dining

Live music

American $ = Under $10 $$ = Mostly $10 - $20 $$$ = $20 and up The Bend Magazine Dining Guide is a select list of restaurants around the Coastal Bend. Implicitly, the magazine’s editors recommend all of these restaurants and they are not advertisements. Listings are updated monthly and appear based on space availability. Reviews and articles are written by our editors as a service to

8te $

A shabby chic interior feel with classic comfort dishes that have a simple twist. They have it all breakfast, lunch, and dinner! 1220 Airline #250, (361) 723-0261, Facebook.com/8tecctx Andy’s Country Kitchen $ You will feel right at home just like eat’n in mom’s kitchen. Great southern comfort food that gets back to the basics! 5802 S Staples St, (361) 993-0251, Andyskitchen.com Atomic Omelette & Grill $ Omelettes are just the beginning here! Comfortable atmosphere with a flavor for casual dining and handmade family recipes. 6313 Wooldridge Rd #10, (361) 334-3942, Atomicomelette.com Citrus Bayfront Bistro $ Enjoy everything homemade, even down to the pie crusts with a gorgeous view of the marina. 100 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 882-2047, Citrusbistro.com

readers. Restaurant owners: If you have news about your restaurant or a correction to our listing, we’re all ears! Send an email to editor@thebendmag.com or call (361) 792-3606

Rockport

Hamlin Pharmacy & Fountain $

The last Soda Fountain in Corpus Christi, TX! Although they’ve expanded and changed over the many years, their old fashioned values and friendly service has remained the same. 3801 S Staples St., (361) 8537303, Hamlinpharmacy.com Irie’s Island Food $ With bold purpose and flavor craving taste buds, they set forth a new twist on local fare and many culinary delights from islands around the globe. 503 N Alister St, (361) 749-2310, Iriesislandfood.com Liberty Hall Inferno $$ Herbs and vegetables grown on site, your dining experience will be unforgettable! 106 E. Cotter, (361) 749-4888

MacDaddy’s Family Kitchen $$

Serves BBQ, Fried Chicken & Seafood. Big tables for big groups, they’ll also deliver! 118 Beach St,(361) 749-2271 Macdaddysfamilykitchen.com

Padre Island Burger Company $$ Burgers, burgers, and burgers! Build it yourself or choose from their handcrafted menu. 11878 TX-361, (361) 949-3490, Padreislandburgercompany.com

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Cuisine | The Drink

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Local Brewery Tapology is turning palates. By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Durrent

hey say you never truly get to know a place unless you “do as the locals do” – this means eat their food, go to their spots. In Jason Gillen’s case, it was to drink their beer. Whenever he traveled, he would always make it a point to drink whatever was local from the pubs that he visited. One day, he thought, “Why not make most of those beers available to the people of the Coastal Bend?” From that, Tapology Texas Pub was born. The idea behind Tapology, meaning the study of taps, is simple: to bring the best beers to Corpus and beyond. The tap room comes alive with

0907507TX.1

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State Farm Lloyds, Dallas, TX

4334 S Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 334-0413 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

40 taps from different states. The selection changes every so often – except for four of them. Tapology makes sure to feature our local breweries, Lorelei Brewing Co. and Lazy Beach Brewing, permanently and prominently with two taps each available at the bar. The pub’s beers cover everyone’s tastes. They have light, fruity, sour, stout, and they even have beers aged in wine barrels for the wine lovers. They also offer beer flights, which contain four 4 oz. glasses of different kinds of beer, for people who want to try them out first before deciding. With this wide of a selection, Tapology is set to prove that beer is no longer an acquired taste – one delicious tap at a time.

Cuisine | Dining Guide Surfside Sandwich Shoppe $ Dine inside or outside on the patio, and enjoy their large assortment of sandwiches and sides or have a nice cold beverage. Don’t forget the homemade desserts! 15113 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0505, surfsidesandwichshoppe.com

Sang’s Imperial Café $$ Culturally dynamic décor brings an international ambiance to the atmosphere. Their commitment to the healthiest and freshest food shows through from the dishes to the sushi bar. 4650 Corona Dr, (361) 808-8881, Facebook.com/imperialcafe

The Blue Cove $$ Indulge in the art of food with The Blue Cove. Family owned and served with love, this quaint little place will soon become your go-to spot for a weekend bite. 1945 Horne Rd, (361) 855-2927, facebook.com/TheBlueClove

TakeNiwa $$$ Sit in Hibachi and watch their talented chefs prepare your dinner. Or treat yourself to juicy steak and full sushi bar, your choice! 5216 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 356-6888, Takeniwa.com

The Glass Pavilion $$ Casual hotel eatery offering simple American mains and views of the sea. Did we mention they also offer a breakfast buffet? Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! 2nd Floor Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 887-1600, Omnihotels.com

Hoegemeyer’s BBQ $$

The Grille $ Ensures you’ll always have the variety that is the spice of life! With ingredients sourced from Texas, burger patties and soups are all made from scratch. 3063 Main St, (361) 775-1000, Facebook.com/thegrillingleside

Owned and operated by 3rd generation BBQ restaurant owners. They mesquite smoke the finest meats available and strive to provide the best food and service to their customers. 1702 US Hwy 181, (361) 704-6249, 15013 Northwest Blvd., (361) 933-0143, mikecottensbbq.com m

The Groove $$ A little something for every discriminating craving with an eclectic dining experience. Nothing is ever frozen or put in a fryer! 2001 N Hwy 35, (361) 729-3663, Thegrooverockport.com

The Post $$ Enjoy this pub in a communal setting with dishes that are meant to be shared, all alongside a cocktail or beer of course! 3850 S Alameda, (361)452-0907, Facebook.com/post Town & Country Café $ This down-to-earth dinner serves the best in homestyle American comfort food for breakfast and lunch. 4228 S Alameda St, (361) 992-0360, Facebook.com/town-country-cafe

Asian

Barbeque Smoked fresh barbeque on a strong German heritage background and a satisfaction for something unique. South Texas barbeque that comes from the heart. 711 Concrete St, (361) 884-4227, Hoegemeyers.com ll

Mike Cotten’s BBQ $$

(Corpus Christi) Bar & Grill

Boathouse Bar & Grill $$ The best thing about the Boathouse Bar & Grill is that there’s something for everyone; a mouthwatering menu, 4 full bars with HDTV’s, waterfront patio dining, friendly service, and a fun, relaxing atmosphere. 15241 Leeward Dr, (361) 589-9601, Boathousepadreisland.com Brewster Street Ice House $$ Who says that you can’t have 4-star food in a casual environment? Not the Brewster Street Grill! Bring your kids or stay for a concert, they have it all. 1724 N Tancahua, (361) 884-2739, Brewsterstreet.net

Aka Sushi $$ Creative and daring rolls that work well together. The authentic Asian cuisine made with the chef’s homemade recipe will be sure to surprise you. 415 N Water St, (361) 882-8885

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Executive Surf Club $$

The perfect casual family dining spot. All the while supplying the most beer on tap in the city. 309 N Water St, (361) 884-7873, Waterstreetmarketcc.com/executive-surf-club

FINS Grill and Icehouse $$

For the past 11 years, they’ve featured fresh seafood, 1/2 lb Angus beef burgers & chicken. Full bar and you “You Hook ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” for the fisherman. 420 West Cotter, (361) 749-8646, Finsgrillandicehouse.com Stingray’s Taphouse and Grill $$ An industrial-chic elite sports bar that provides you ‘raving fans’ a unique dining and entertaining experience, right around the corner from the beach! 401 Beach St, (361)749-2287, Stingraystaphouse.com

The Brewery $$ Brick oven pizza, pub food & burgers sound good? How about a fresh brewed-in-house beer? 429 Alister Street (361) 749- 2739, Portaransasbrewery.com

Café BonnA-Petit $ Chef Sophie will always make you feel warmly welcomed, just as her gourmet dishes do. And don’t forget to grab a to-go dinner! 4301 S Alameda St, (361) 334-2579, Bonna-petit.com Daily Grind $ A coffee bar with personality, they offer the finest in gourmet, rustic, or straight-up coffee favorites. Hungry? Stick around for their daily quiche specials, scones, and sandwiches. 302 S Austin St, (361) 790-8745, Rockportdailygrind.com

Fillingood Bakery $ With fresh bread baked in house, they make breakfast and lunch a delight! 3819 S Alameda St., (361) 225-4663, fillingoodbakery.com

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Cuisine | The Dish

A Taste of Maryland Named after the beltway around Washington D.C. that runs through Maryland, 495 Chesapeake Eats provides a unique dining experience unlike any other in the Coastal Bend. By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Durrent

wned by brothers Chris and Andrew Fox, this restaurant and bar comes to us from Annapolis, Maryland, home of their first location. Andrew manages the Maryland location, while Chris owns and operates the restaurant in Rockport. 495 Chesapeake Eats specializes in Maryland cuisine and craft cocktails, a concept that was conceived in a bar in D.C. in 1999. “The concept is much more unique in a far away setting. So when I moved to Texas in September of 2015, it was only fitting to kick off the 495 concept here,” Chris shared. 495 Chesapeake provides a taste of Maryland to our coastal city. Their signature dish is the Maryland style jumbo lump crab cake, made with fresh, not pasteurized, blue crab. Several places in the area serve crab cake, but not quite like theirs. The flavor is all their own, making its mark on their customers

108 The Bend

and leaving them wanting more of that Chesapeake taste. They also put a wood-fired grill in the kitchen to give all of their fish, seafood, and steak an exquisite flavor. Chef Wesley Virassamy is originally from Mauritius, bringing a well-rounded and one-of-akind culinary talent to Rockport. The distinctness of this place doesn’t stop there. They also have a bar that serves craft beer, craft cocktails, and a bourbon list that brags of selections normally found in big cities. With this being Chris’ fourth cocktail bar, many of their drinks are crafted from years of experimenting and serving what works. Their two signature cocktails are the 495 Gimlet and the Angels N’ Demons. Their Rockport location is their first restaurant in Texas, but with one-of-a-kind food and award-winning drinks, we don’t expect it to be their last.

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One of their signature drinks, the Angels N’ Demons, was recognized as best tequila drink in Las Vegas! 1008 E. North St. Rockport, Texas 78382 (361) 450-0116

Cuisine | Dining Guide Hester’s Café and Coffee Bar $ Looking for a true family experience where love is the number one ingredient, along with the simple but important concept of quality and the healing powers of good food. 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd, (361) 885-0151, 1714 S Alameda St, (361) 885-0558, 3812 S Alameda St, (361) 855-1892, Hesterscafe.com JB’s German Bakery $ Committed to maintaining the highest German standard, every product is handmade following age-old German traditions and recipes. There are no short-cuts at JB’s. 15137 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-5474, Jbsgermanbakery.com

Sugarbakers $

Great cuisine with a French and European influence. They use locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible with mostly everything made from scratch. 2766 Santa Fe St, (361) 884-9541, Sugarbakerscc.com French Bleu Bistro $$$ True playful twists to classic French bistro dishes. The chef’s commitment to the use of fresh, local, peak-ofthe-season products is evident in the quality of each dish. 500 N Water St, (361) 887-2121, Bleubistrocc.com Dragonfly $$$ A fine multitude of international backgrounds to the cuisine prepared entirely from scratch daily by the owner and culinary artist. The menu is full of unforgettable flavor profiles to satisfy any craving. 14701 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-2224, Facebook.com/dragonfly-restaurant Gr

Italian Authentic New York Pizza $$ True, authentic New York Pizza right in your hands in Corpus Christi, complete with red-checkered tablecloths. 5838 S Staples St, (361) 986-1151, Eatmorepizza.com

Bella Luna Downtown $$

Authentic gourmet Italian cuisine always made fresh to order in the heart of The Marina Arts District. 429 Schatzell St, (361) 887-4777, Bellalunadowntown.com

Bellino’s $$

Comfortable and welcoming with a trattoria style authentic cuisine. You won’t find these dishes anywhere else in Corpus Christi! 3815 S Alameda St, (361) 8148998, 523 S. Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-9003, Bellinotexas.com Brooklyn Pie Co. $ Enjoy a slice or indulge a whole “pie” of their delicious secret pizza tradition. 15326 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-1100, Brooklynpie.com

Grimaldi’s Pizzeria $$ Distinctive and authentic pizza baked to perfection in a signature coal burning oven you can see right from your seat, offers a unique crisp flavor. 5488 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 980-8600, Grimaldispizzeria.com

House of Rock $ Great pizza and appetizers, cold beer, and live entertainment! Does it get any better? $$ 511 Starr St, (361) 882-7625, Texashouseofrock.ticketfly.com Mamma Mia’s $$$ Warm and cozy mom and pop Italian experience will make you feel like family. Entrees are delicious Italian culture on a plate. 128 N Mesquite St, (361) 8833773, Facebook.com/mamma-mias Mesquite St. Pizza and Pasta Co. $$ Their 60-year-old pizza oven brought in straight from Brooklyn New York makes for the perfect pizza. Plus, all the crusts and sauces are made in house. 617 Mesquite St, (361) 882-7499, Eatpizzadowntown.com Padre Pizzeria $ For over 15 years, their famous Padre Pizza dough is handmade, hand-tossed and prepared daily. 14493 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0787, Padrepizzeria.com Port “A” Pizzeria $$ Bring the kids, as this family-friendly pizzeria offers an all-day buffet, video games and draft beer. Or, order straight off the menu! 407 E Avenue G, (361) 7495226, Portapizzeria.com Trattoria Taddei $$ The chef’s recipes and experience, all with a genuine Italian flavor, come down from his home region’s authentic traditional cuisine personally passed from generation to generation over many centuries. 920 Louisiana Ave, (361) 884-4400, Trattoriataddei.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Venetian Hot Plate $$$ Quality cuisine and a quaint, yet energetic atmosphere, giving a real touch of Italy. 232 Beach St, (361) 749-7617, Venetianhotplate.com

Mediterranean Ginger Café and Grill $$ Eastern hospitality and authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, there’s so much to love about these Persian, Turkish, Lebanese, and Indo-Pakistani specialties. 7009 S Staples #103, (361) 946-9834, Gingercafecc.com

Mexican Molé $$ The vision lies in freshness, tradition and distinction; Mole’ is where true Central Mexican Cuisine can be enjoyed. 6042 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 334-6081, Molerestaurant.com

Per uvian Costa Sur Wok & Ceviche Bar $$ This cevicheria is a true Peruvian party on your palette. The dishes are fresh takes on traditional originals from Peru. 15113 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 9458303, Costasurcc.com

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

Lance's Black SheepBistro $$

A unique, trendy atmosphere that transcends age and style with a menu full of foods rich, colorful, and full of flavor. 15201 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-4819, Blacksheepbistro.net Doc’s Seafood and Steaks $$ Lively and enjoyable selection for surf ‘n’turf in an open-air setting overlooking the water, plus live music. 13309 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6744, Docseafoodandsteaks.com

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Cuisine | Dining Guide Glow $$ From a renovated boathouse, they offer simply-cooked bistro fare using the best local seafood and produce. Bright, relaxed atmosphere with white-washed ship lap wood walls and a full bar. 1815 Broadway St, (361) 727-2644, Glowrockport.com

Hours

Mon-Fri 11am - 2:30pm Sat-Sun 10am - 2pm

Catering Available! 100 N Shoreline Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361-882-2047

Harrison’s Landing $$

Tavern on the Bay at Harrison’s Landing is Corpus Christi’s newest outdoor restaurant and bar located in the heart of the city’s marina, and is the only place in town with a floating bar! 108 Peoples St, (361) 881-8503, Harrisonslanding.net

Island Time Sushi Bar & Seafood Grill $$ Stop in for fresh and inventive sushi, seafood, appetizers and desserts! Check out the weekday specials! 14225 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-3046, Facebook.com/islandtimesushi Laguna Reef $$ Bring in your own catch straight from your boat, or order off their tasteful menu! With excellent views of the marina, family owners & operators, Laguna Reef is the place to be. 4242 Laguna Shores Rd, (361) 937-2600, Bluffslanding.com/restaurant.php

Latitude 28˚02’ $$$

Contemporary dining experience specializing in tasty fresh, local seafood. Eye-catching walls that serve as a gallery space, holding colorful works by local artists. 105 N Austin St, (361) 727-9009, Latituderockport.com

Red Flourish by Kay Reinke Studio C Gallery, located within the Art Center of Corpus Christi, houses a variety of high quality, original artwork for your home or office, as well as, fine gifts and wearable art created by well respected Texas artists.

Studio C Gallery 100 N Shoreline Corpus Christi, TX 361-881-8325 www.studiocgallery.com

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Lisabella’s Bistro $$$ Casually coastal elegance with a family-friendly setting. The menu boasts a remarkable gourmet twist to your favorite fare, and a full bar that goes beyond just ordinary. The mermaids may even share their secrets. 5009 Hwy 361, (361) 749-4222, Cinnamonshore.com Rock & Rolls Sushi Lounge $$ At Rock & Rolls, they’re dishing out the most delectable and delicate fish from islands all over the world. Delight in a “sound check” or cold appetizer, an “opening act” or hot appetizer, then “plug in” for some rolls and sashimi! 15121 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 9491110, Rockandrollssushi.com Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn $$$ Gourmet dining at its finest in a beautiful Louisiana style home that sets the perfect tone for a taste of luxury. Historic background gives a unique sense of its [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

famous visitors. 200 E Cotter Ave, (361)749-1540, Rooseveltsatthetarponinn.com Saltwater Grill $$ Unique family atmosphere with fresh and tasty seafood that will leave you coming back for more. 2401 Cimarron Blvd, (361) 993-7258, Saltwatergrillcc.com Scuttlebutt’s Bar & Grill $$ Extensive menu, makes sure to have something for everyone. Foods made from scratch from the dressings to the burger patties. 14254 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6769, Scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com

Seafood & Spaghetti Works $$ A unique dining experience, you’ll find the very best in seafood, steak, Italian dishes, pizza, soups, and desserts all made from scratch. 901 S Alister St, (361) 749-5666, Seafoodandspaghetti.com Shells $$ Warm, inviting neighborhood restaurant offers a creative and far-ranging menu that reflects a variety of world cuisines. Shakes off the old and tired and gets down to real good food. 522 E Avenue G, (361) 749-7621, Eatatshells.com Shempy’s Grill $$ Laid-back setting with a variety of delightfully cooked fish will turn anyone into a seafood lover. 3913 Highway 35 S, (361) 727-0019, Facebook.com/Shempys Snoopy’s Pier $$ Outdoor dining experience and local harvested quality with an on-site fish house and shrimp breading facility that enables the freshness. 13313 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-8815, Snoopyspier.com The Boiling Pot $$ Roll up your sleeves and take manners to a new level for a great Cajun experience. 201 S Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-6972 The Pheonix $$ This international bistro/nouveau American fine-quality cuisine is prepared daily using many ingredients from the Corpus Christi Farmer’s Market creating a constantly eclectic seasonal menu, where guests can choose to sit indoor and outdoor. 337 N Alister St, (361) 749-9277, Facebook/The-Phoenix-Restaurant-and-Bar Trout Street Bar & Grill $$$ Cajun-inspired seafood in an airy environs is a wondrous way to enjoy food and cocktails inside the nautical themed restaurant or on the outdoor deck offering marina views. 104 West Cotter, (361) 7497800, Tsbag.com

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The Texas State Aquarium offers up five-star entertainment for every age, every day. Rave over the new Tentacles exhibit, where you can touch a moon jelly, then thrill to a Wild Flight Show as hawks and falcons soar overhead. Touch and feed stingrays in Stingray Lagoon,and marvel at our dolphins’ athleticism in Dolphin Bay. The reviews are in...the Texas State Aquarium is the clear winner for memorable experiences and fun!

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Caribbean Journey Experience It This May 112 The Bend

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Cuisine | Dining Guide

Water Street Oyster Bar $$

Long-standing, well-known Corpus Christi landmark operation serving oysters, sushi rolls & Gulf seafood in a historic, brick-walled space. 309 N Water St, (361) 881-9448, Waterstreetmarketcc.com

Water Street Seafood Company $$$

Locally owned and operated and voted “Best of the Best” seafood. Fish is fresh never frozen, while sauces and dressings are all made in house from scratch. 309 N Water St, (361) 882-8683, Waterstreetmarketcc.com

Yardarm $$$ Savory seafood dishes with great bay view seating. Family owned gives off a special ambiance in the atmosphere as well as the entrees. 4310 Ocean Dr, (361) 855-8157

Steakhouse Katz 21 $$$ Sets the standard for premier fine dining experience. Prime steakhouse specializes in dry-aged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood. 5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, Katz21.com Niko’s Steakhouse $$$ Committed to the motto “Great food, Great times, Great experience.” Casual and elegant atmosphere that will exceed any steak lover’s expectations. 5409 Saratoga Blvd, (361) 992-2333, Nikossteakhouse.com

Republic of Texas $$$$

Thai Thai Cottage $$ Unique and refreshing, Thai curries meet teriyaki and Chinese dishes in a cozy red cottage. 5830 McArdle Rd, (361) 993-0777, Thai-cottage.com

Vietnamese Vietnam Restaurant $$$ Local fine dining with an extensive menu and eye catching Vietnamese culture spread throughout the dining area. 701 N Water St, (361) 853-2682, Vietnam-restaurant.com

One of the top dining destinations. A multi-level steakhouse offers diners beautiful panoramic views of the CC Bay. All the ingredients for the perfect experience! 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 8871600, Omnihotels.com

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History | Looking Back Nueces Hotel stood at 308 Peoples Street, between Water and Chaparral Streets, and provided its guests a perfect view of Corpus Christi Bay. August 31, 1937.

Tourists Sought Water (Street) Views Before the seawall, Water Street was the prime place for scenic bay vistas. By: Jillian Becquet Photo: Courtesy of the John Fred’k ‘Doc’ McGregor Collection at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History

orpus Christi, the “Sparkling City” has had many nicknames through the years, and nearly all of them reference the beautiful view we have of the water. People from across the country found a year-around vacation spot with gorgeous views of Corpus Christi Bay in their visit to the “Naples of the Gulf.” When visitors sought a hotel on the waterfront to take in the view, the Nueces Hotel always made the shortlist. The Nueces Hotel gave guests a great view of the bay, because until the seawall was built in 1941, Water Street was the main drive for accessing the bayfront views. Today, we drive visitors down Ocean and Shoreline to take in the sights, but in those days, visitors to Corpus Christi relied on Water Street for the scenery. Before the land past

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Water Street was filled in for the seawall, Water Street hotels like the Nueces and Princess Louise (at Mann and Water Street) sported prime waterfront property. The Princess Louise even had a pier right in front, just steps from the hotel, for the enjoyment of its guests. The Nueces played an important cultural roll as a meeting place for business people, who utilized its plush lobby for networking, and was where celebrities visiting town usually stayed (including Tarzan actor Johnny Weissmuller). Intended to draw in tourists, the hotel’s economic impact is undeniable. The hotel sheltered people from the 1919 Hurricane until eventually falling victim to damage from Hurricane Celia in 1970. For decades, this iconic Corpus Christi destination gave many thousands of people the chance to enjoy the beautiful views of Corpus Christi Bay from the convenience of their location right on Water Street.

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