July 2017

A WEST SIDE STORY EMPOWERING CORPUS’ YOUTH

BIKING FOR BENEFIT TEXAS 4000 FOR CANCER

c a o l ’ L s e Li h st T the ks for r pic You best live m u s i c , s hops, be e r &b bq

Mesquite Street Pizza: Best Pizza

2 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

(361) 994-7500 www.tvvmedispa.com (361) 994-7500

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DESTINATION SUMMER MORE THAN 100 OF THE FINEST NAMES IN STYLE, SERVICES AND CUISINE

Dillard’s • Macy’s • JCPenney • Express • H&M • Forever 21 • White House | Black Market • MAC Cosmetics francesca’s • Aldo • Pandora • PINK • P. F. Chang's China Bistro • Michael Kors • ULTA • Oakley • Grimaldi's Pizzeria LongHorn Steakhouse • Tillys • Buckle • OshKosh B’gosh • Victoria’s Secret • Soma Intimates Featured Fashion: Express • Charming Charlie • francesca’s 4 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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5

You’ve Always Always You’ve Imagined...

Imagined...

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CAREER OPPORTUNITIES for licensed Real Estate AGENTS. Join the TOP SALES FORCE in Aransas County!

6 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Contents JULY 2017 | The Local's Issue

Around the Bend

Features

36

Monthly | Departments

20 Style 22 Currents 24 Conversation 26 5 Best 28 Giving Back

The Local's List

Destinations 32 Quick Trip 34 Local Discovery

Health 62 Be Well 64 Fitness

Home & Garden 68 Open House 70 Spaces

Out & About 78 Arts & Culture 82 Celebration 84 Date Book 88 Social Hour

Cuisine

54

A West Side Story

94

Farm to Table

94 Farm to Table 99 Dining Guide 100 The Drink 102 The Dish

History

106 Looking Back

Copyright Š 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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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

9

Discover why over 17 million homeowners trust us.

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

Caroline Randall Freeman Alexa Alley Whitney Noble Alexis Mays Jinky Romero Jillian Becquet Jacqueline Gonzalez

ART DIRECTOR: Will Bowling Mark Silva, Agent 5515 Saratoga Blvd, Suite A Corpus Christi, TX 78413 Bus: 361-992-3341 www.marksilvainsurance.com

With your new home comes new responsibilities – like protecting your new investment with the right amount of homeowners insurance. That’s where I can help.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.® CALL ME TODAY.

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jason Page

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick

INTERNS: Avery Cohen Haylee Uptergrove

MANAGING EDITOR: Kylie Kinnett

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS:

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Rosana Knapick

0907507TX.1

State Farm Lloyds, Dallas, TX

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 Benavides

Phone: 361.792.3606

SUBSCRIPTIONS: THEBENDMAG.COM

CONTRIBUTORS: Justin & Kayla Butts Jo Anne Howell Alexis De Leon

CONNECT WITH US @

thebendmag.com @thebendmag on Instagram and Twitter #CBLife What category would you like to see in the 2018 Local's List? #localslist

e Local’s Li st Th the ks for r pic You

best live music, s hops, beer &b bq

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

BIKING FOR BENEFIT TEXAS 4000 FOR CANCER

JULY 2017

10 The Bend

The Coastal Bend’s Lifestyle Magazine

With this month’s issue being dedicated to the locals, we wanted to showcase one of our winners on the cover. While there were numerous categories to choose from, we went with the Local’s Favorite Pizza, Mesquite St. Pizza and Pasta Company (because who doesn’t love a good lookin’ pizza). Our lead photographer, Rachel Benavides, did what she does best and brought their Margherita pizza to life—it looks so good you can almost taste it.

VOLUME 4/ISSUE 6

On the Cover

A WEST SIDE STORY EMPOWERING CORPUS’ YOUTH

Mesquite Street Pizza: Best Pizza

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2016 PADRE ISLAND BUSINESS of the YEAR [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

11

July | Staff Note

GREAT BROWS DON'T HAPPEN

BY CHANCE, THEY HAPPEN

BY APPOINTMENT.

From the Desk of

BEFORE

Kylie Kinnett, Managing Editor

AFTER

Advanced certification in micro-pigmentmentation + microblading.

Licensed with

The Texas Department of State Health Services.

Comprehensive Consultations Microblading Feathering · Color Matching Minimal Discomfort · Sanitary

by Pinnacle Tattoo

1041 Airline Road Corpus Christi, Tx 78412

361.549.9205

pinnacletina@yahoo.com @golddustcosmetictattooing

12 The Bend

WHERE ARE YOU FROM? I actually was born and raised right here in Corpus Christi. I left only for college and I have now found myself back here! I love Corpus and the feeling the city provides as soon as you drive into town. This city is on the rise and I feel as though everyday a different member of the community is coming up with new and exciting ideas on how to keep pushing Corpus in the right direction.

WHAT IS YOUR TYPICAL DAY LIKE AT THE MAGAZINE? I remember on my first day at The Bend, I was told the editorial side of the magazine was going to be my baby. It did not take long for me to realize what that meant. Basically, I am in charge of making sure the editorial half of The Bend Magazine gets done. On a typical day I am scheduling photoshoots, editing stories, editing layouts in the magazine, and even doing some writing myself.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART ABOUT LIVING IN THE COASTAL BEND? I love coffee (probably an unhealthy amount) and I live right across the street from Eleanor’s Coffee Bar + Market. Going in there and getting a morning cup and having conversations with the people there is definitely one of my favorite things to do. Also, palm trees. I love my Corpus palm trees. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

DO YOU HAVE ANY HOBBIES? I really love to write. That has always been one of my passions and to be able to do that for a living is such a blessing. Whether it is jotting down ideas and thoughts in a journal or writing an article for the magazine, I always love to put words to paper. Other than that, I enjoy finding new music and hanging out with my cat Dwight.

WHO IS YOUR HERO? My mom is my hero, hands down. Being a single mom is no easy task and she takes on that roll in a flawless fashion. I look up to her in so many ways, but mostly I try to embody her strength and the love she has for life.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT WORKING AT THE BEND? I think the fact that I am able to be creative at work every day is my favorite part about this job. Being able to express ideas creatively in the work place is not only important, but essential here and I love that.

Also, the people who are responsible for putting this magazine together are some of the kindest and most talented people I’ve met—which makes being in an office everyday a lot easier!

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5/4/2/3

8

5810 Ocean Dr. - $1,725,000 4/5/0/2 | Waterfront | Pool

6

7/ 31/17

7/ 31/17

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

13

FACE THE FACTS

July | Letter From The Publisher

YOU LIKE US

An Ode to Our Readers NOW LIKE US ON

FACEBOOK

Cheri Sperling 2016 Realtor of the Year

PHONE: 361.949.0101 CELL: 361.774.3171 EMAIL: sperling@coastline-properties.com

P

atience is something I have been working on lately. When I have an idea or something I want to pursue, I dive right in. I want to get started right away and launch as soon a possible. This can sometimes be a good thing, considering fear tends to hold most of us back from taking risks or trying something new. On the other hand, we can rush into things and not give them enough time to fully develop.

This month, we feature our second annual Local’s List. If you have ever wondered where Coastal Bend locals love to eat, shop, and play in the region, you have come to the right place. About three years ago I came up with the idea for The Local’s List, except it was called “The B-List.” I was pretty anxious to run a “best of ” list in The Bend, because we had just launched the magazine, and were not ready to take on a new challenge like that. “The B-List” stood for The Bend’s List, but when you abbreviate it like that, it really doesn’t sound like a list anyone wants to be on. B-List movies are never as good as Hollywood films. I think there are a lot of reasons the first trial was a failure, but I learned a lot from the experience. Needless to say, I was a little nervous when we first started the Local’s List a year ago, but it turned out to be a huge success. We had about 1,500 people vote and over 300 people show up to our Local’s List Party, where attendees got to sample food and interact with all their local favorites in one place. I would like to think it was all due to our team’s hard work, but I think the biggest reason the Local’s List took off is because we didn’t make it all about us. It went from our list, to the community’s list.

This year, we received over 33,000 votes and 6,750 people participated in the poll. I was blown away. I love how our readers really take ownership of the magazine. I always want our readers to feel like their thoughts and opinions matter.

The Local’s List is really a chance for our staff to step away and let our readers decide what we write about. We are the local, community lifestyle magazine for the Coastal Bend. We write great local stories, and highlight new and up and coming local businesses. We love doing what we do, but we could never do it without the support of our locals who share stories, write articles, read the magazine, and pass it along to friends and visitors every month. On behalf of all the voters and contributors who made the 2017 Local’s List a reality, thanks for reading and we hope to see everyone at the party on July 27th!

Jordan Regas Publisher

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14 The Bend

I can’t stop staring at the opening spread of our Local’s List feature this month. It gets me excited about all the things there are to do and see around the Costal Bend. Just looking at it makes me proud to call the Coastal Bend home. I want to thank our new Managing Editor, Kylie Kinnett, for tracking down and organizing all the photos for the layout and to our designer and good friend, Will Bowling, for laying out a great feature this month. These things are harder than they look.

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Alex Vial-Nadeau, D.D.S. thebendmag.com

15

On display in Corpus Christi this summer.

June 2-September 10, 2017 Locally sponsored in part by:

361-825-3500 www.artmuseumofsouthtexas.org

Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery

This project is funded by grants from the City of Corpus Christi through the Arts & Cultural Commission.

This exhibition was organized by the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery.

The competition and exhibition have been made possible by generous support from the Virginia Outwin Boochever Portrait Competition Endowment.

Images clockwise from left: Sedrick, Sed, Daddy © by Sedrick Huckaby, John from De Puro Corazon series © by Gaspar Enriquez, I Love Your Hair © by Tim Okamura, A Moment in Time (detail,1900s) © by Wendy Arbeit, La Guia ("The Guide") © by Rigoberto A. Gonzalez, American Prize © by Tim Doud, Miss Everything (Unsuppressed Deliverance) © by Amy Sherald, "What would the earth look like if all the shadows disappeared?" © by Dean Allison, Caja de Memoria Viva II: Constancia Clemente-Colón © by Adrián "Viajero" Román.

5151 Everhart Rd. Corpus Christi, Tx 78411

361.854.8468

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BE COOL AND SAFE IN YOUR HOME OR OFFICE

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Around the Bend JULY 2017

STYLE 20 CURRENTS 22 CONVERSATION 24 5 BEST 26 GIVING BACK 28

What’s Inside Lauren Page, a Corpus native, is suiting up the Coastal Bend in the most fashionable way. Her one-of-a-kind bathing suits are made with both passion and creativity.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

17

THAT'S OUR ISLANDER IMPACT. TAMU-CC and the Harte Research Institute are international leaders in Gulf of Mexico research. With over 600,000 square miles of Gulf waters monitored each year, our advances are leading the way for habitat protection, oil drilling safety and marine & wildlife conservation. Our shark tagging program—in partnership with Discovery Channel’s Shark Week®—has garnered worldwide attention making Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi a point of pride in our community and leaders in the field.

That's our Islander Impact.

18 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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thebendmag.com

19

Around the Bend | Style

Romantic Rendezvous for Two By: Candace Reichert Photos: Rachel Benavides Wardrobe: Coastal Closet - Port Aransas The sweet scent of love fills the summer air and a spontaneous romantic getaway is just what the doctor has ordered. As lovely as that may sound, we all know how this scenario is played out. It’s the night before your trip and instead of getting some muchneeded beauty rest, you’re frantically laying out your entire wardrobe, unsure of what to pack, panicking about all the things you may forget. Well, we are here to help.

To make sure your next romantic rendezvous goes off without a hitch, we’ve laid out all the essentials needed for a few days away with that special someone. Now it’s time to snuggle up, pour the wine, and put out the Do Not Disturb sign.

20 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

G E T AWAY B A G D.

I. A. R.

L.

K.

F.

J.

G.

E. P.

O.

B. H. N. C.

M.

Q. A. Charlotte Clutch - KAYU $205 B. Huntington Sunglasses - SEAFOLLY EYEWEAR $99.95 C. McCotti Bracelets - MCCOTTI DESIGNS $104 D. Palm Earrings - GRESHAM JEWELRY $35 E. Minimergency Kit - PINCH PROVISIONS $18 F. Jean Baptiste - NIVEN MORGAN $45 G. Multi Band Thong Sandal - SOLUDOS $87 H. Coco Top - BUCKLEY K $162 I. Had A Top - BUCKLEY K $155 F. Jean Baptiste - NIVEN MORGAN $45

J. Georgiana Cami/Shorts - EBERJEY $83 / $57 K. Looker - MOTHER DENIM $220 L. One Peice Suit - CAMILLA $380 M. Nissi Beach Dress - NIMO WITH LOVE $115 N. Kushi Necklace - ROBERTA ROLLER RABIT $37 O. Lip/Cheek Stain - SUPERGOOP $22 P. Tinted Sunscreen - SUPERGOOP $32 Q. Leah Short - SOUTHERN TIDE $65 R. Leanor Drusy - KENDRA SCOTT $75

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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21

Around the Bend | Currents

Currents By: Jarred Schuetze

A Trip Back in Thyme

Opposite of Ordinary The hottest new full service coffee bar making buzz in the Coastal Bend is Éclectix Coffee Bar and Bakery.

Take a caffeinated journey from coast to coast as you sip from unique selections of house blends, espressos and nitro brews. Éclectix is also home to an extensive heirloom bakery, fresh eats, and pressed juices. No need to worry if you’re pressed for time, the coffee shop has a full service drive thru to help make your afternoon pick-me-up as convenient as possible. Venture out to Éclectix Coffee Bar and Bakery, located on South Staples in the Encantada Shopping Center, and enjoy delicious beverages, fresh food, and smiling faces. eclectixcoffeebar.com

22 The Bend

The History Center for Aransas County will feature "Foodways: The Culinary Heritage of Aransas County" on Saturday, July 22, 2017 at 5pm. This exhibit showcases the area's unique heritage of Native Americans foraging, hunting, shrimping, and fishing. There will be community cook-books for sale with proceeds going to various groups like the Good Samaritans, PTA, Rotary, and more. The exhibit will highlight historic signage, give-a-ways and memorabilia from local businesses, vintage collectibles like coastal-themed restaurant china, hand-painted French and German oyster plates, and food-themed work from members of the Rockport-Fulton Art Colony. Multi-cultural aspects of local cuisine, including Mexican and Vietnamese culinary traditions, are also part of the programs. Historic recipes from beloved eating establishments and renowned local cooks will be shared. The exhibit will stay open until the end of September. aransashistorycenter.org

So, A Fish Walks Into A Bar… A trendy new downtown bar, The Gold Fish, has two fins up on the competition.

The bar is an indoor/outdoor biergarten in what was originally a gas station in downtown Corpus Christi in the 1940’s.

Robert Cooper initiated the idea of the bar and enlisted Justin Gainan for the design. Together they both, along with Jessica Gignac, conceptualized the final plans for The Gold Fish. The bar will uphold the classic bones of the building, while adding communal seating through custom made tables of wood and steel, loads of greenery and foliage, and a menu of craft cocktails, beers, and carefully selected wines from small vineyards.

724 N. Mesquite St. Corpus Christi, TX [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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23

Around the Bend | Person of Interest

Conversation with

Lauren Page Local bathing suit designer /owner of Coco Kini By: Whitney Noble Photo: A. West Photography You started your monogramming business, LPE Monogramming & Embroidery, LLC., with the help of your grandma, who bought you your first embroidery machine. With that business now booming, how did you decide to branch off to swimwear?

I started my embroidery business when I was fresh out of high school. Although I love it, I have changed a lot as a person. My interests and style have changed. I started traveling and surfing a few years back and have had issues finding well fitting and functional bikinis that were also stylish. Tops were the worst! I eventually pulled out my sewing machine and put my skills to the test. I just really enjoy making swim suits. It has definitely evolved into my passion and allows me to be extremely creative all of the time! Since Coco Kini has blown up, I’ve been lucky enough to have an assistant who was willing to take over all of my embroidery business so I can focus on continuing to grow Coco Kini.

What inspires the fit and designs for the Coco Kini line?

Surfing and being active in general is definitely a big inspiration for the suit styles I create. I try to make every style as functional as possible, because I want Coco Kinis to be great pieces that girls can potentially wear under any circumstance. Whether it be water sports, beach volleyball, or just laying out! I name each style after my favorite places that I’ve visited. I have a top named after one of our own local beaches, North Packery!

Coco Kini has the cutest patterns! How do you choose them?

I literally spend hours upon hours choosing fabric patterns I think will make great swimwear. I consider everything from the colors to the size scale of the print, because it is all important. I absolutely love floral patterns and anything tropical. As a matter of fact, most of the fabric that I use is the artwork of freelance print designers. So what each

24 The Bend

Coco Kini owner has is not only a cute suit, but custom art! Usually when I am considering new fabrics, I will try to include my customers by posting the prints on social media and get their opinions.

You sell locally, but also on Etsy and your own website. Can you remember your first sale, and where has been the most exciting place an order has been placed from?

Right now, I am trying to stray away from Etsy to become more of a brand instead of an Etsy shop.

Most of my sales run through www.cocokinisurf. com. A selection of Coco Kinis can also be found at Paper Crown, a boutique in Lamar Park. And of course I remember my first sale! I was wearing one of my very first suits at the beach, and a girl came up to me and asked where I got it. That simple question gave me all the initial motivation I needed to actually begin selling my swimwear. It was so cool to me that people were noticing my designs!

Now, I get sales from all over. I do get pretty excited when I see an order come in from California or Hawaii, because the bathing suit market in those states is so saturated. But I’d have to say that Corpus is still my favorite place to receive sales from.

It’s my goal to fill our Coastal Bend beaches with babes in Coco Kinis!

How is each suit customizable?

Although every piece is custom made to order, I do not take each individual’s measurements. They are custom in the sense that you get to choose from a main fabric as well as a reverse fabric, and you get it in whatever style and size you want! I offer many different top styles, and I’m always working on new ones. My bottoms are pretty basic, but that is because they are meant to fit well and stay on during active summertime movements. I offer three different bottom coverages – Cheeky, Cheekier, and Moderate.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

It’s important to you to keep that small business feel despite your rapid growth. How do you do that?

I really try to be friendly and professional when speaking with customers, yet I also try to showcase my personality when responding to emails, social media comments, and any other forms of communication. When I sell at Farmers’ Markets, I take that opportunity as my chance to interact with my customers so they know there is a fun-loving and dedicated person on the other end who really enjoys making their suits!

What do you expect the future will be for Coco Kini?

Right now, I can’t say I’m 100% sure, but I do know that I am extremely optimistic. I think Coco Kini has the potential to really grow, as it's proven itself already. I’ve had a few more inquiries from stores that want to sell my line, so that’s something I will have to consider!

I would love to start doing more events, maybe even branch out of state. I recently traveled throughout New Zealand and was able to visit a few markets there. I think it

would be super cool to even branch out to different countries, so that’s probably one of my biggest goals! I’m also working on a really professional website, and simply continuing to grow and learn in my bikini making skills. I’m always looking for ways to improve and that is what pushes and excites me most.

Contact: cocokinisurf.com etsy.com/shop/cocokini facebook.com/cocokinisurf/

OCTOBER 7, 2017

DOWNTOWN CORPUS CHRISTI

FACEBOOK.COM/SURFTOBERFEST [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

25

Around the Bend | 5 Best

5

Best

Local Dog Eateries

From burgers with your beagle to pasta with your poodle, there’s a dog-friendly eatery in the Coastal Bend for whatever food mood you’re in. Check out these top 5 spots for eating out with your pup.

By: Alexis Mays

1

The Post: The Post encourages patrons to pair their cuisine with cocktail or craft beer. Did you know you can also pair with your canine? Known for a unique menu of American-fusion food and another full page of drinks to choose from, locals will be delighted to now know that this gastropub allows you to walk your dog through the restaurant and dine on their full-service patio.

The Post at Lamar Park | 411 Doddridge St #102, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 | (361) 452-0907

2

Harrison’s Landing: Looking for sweeping

views of the Corpus Christi Bayfront? Look no further than Harrison’s Landing. They have an entire section, called the Tiki Bar Dock, where tail-wagers are welcomed. Dogs will be happy to tag along with their owners, while owners can enjoy daily happy hour specials. Here you can also order anything from sandwiches to steaks (and a burger patty on the side for your pooch).

Harrison’s Landing | 108 Peoples St T-Head, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 | (361) 881-8503

3

Black Sheep Bistro: For fine dining with

Fido, head to Black Sheep Bistro. This chic Padre Island eatery has many seafood plates, but also offers lamb and wild game dishes. Black Sheep Bistro, and their pup-approved patio, is open late most nights

26 The Bend

for dinner and open early on the weekend for brunch.

With Black Sheep Bistro located just minutes from dog-friendly beaches, you can make a full day of sand, sun, and scrumptious eats.

Black Sheep Bistro | 15201 S Padre Island Dr #120, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 | (361) 949-4819

4

Urban Bricks: A build-your-own pizza

restaurant, featuring unlimited toppings, opened recently on the South Side of Corpus Christi.

Urban Bricks is located in the Shops at La Palmera, and has not one, but two outdoor areas to eat alongside your dachshund or terrier. This year, they also plan to open a window at the patio – making it that much easier for those bringing their dogs to eat out.

Urban Bricks | 4902 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 | (361) 334-2591

5

Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill:

Located on the Rockport coast is a scenic bar and grill with a large menu of seafood dishes, burgers, and drinks. Patrons and pooches can dine on the full-service patio, which overlooks the water. Once a month, they host a “Yappy Hour,” benefitting the Rockport-Fulton Chapter of the Humane Society. For just $20, you will support a good cause and enjoy great food all at the same time!

Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill | 165 Cove Harbor N, Rockport, TX 78382 | (361) 729-6000

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

PET HISTORY Although history isn’t sure exactly when dogs became pets, there’s no doubt about when they became members of the family.

Between the 1990s and 2000s, the number of dog owners increased by millions. Now, nearly half of Americans have pet dogs. An influx of canine companions created a culture shift, and the last several decades have spurred countless dog-friendly establishments.

Dog lovers turn to websites and apps to find restaurants, hotels, and stores that allow their ‘fur babies’ a spot at the table. Certain cities are even widely accommodating to canines.

From colleges to workplaces that welcomes Spot and Rover, there’s no doubt about it: the world is going to the dogs.

When heading to Fido-friendly establishments, businesses always advise keeping four-legged friends on a leash and wearing current tags.

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Around the Bend | Giving Back

As a Matter of Fact: • The National Fire Protection Association reports that when a fire happens, the average loss per structure is $20,700.

• Since its start, the Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Relief and Outreach Fund has given $60,300 to those in need.

• More than 80 families have been helped since 2015.

Fighting More than Fires People count on firefighters and EMTs during fires & medical emergencies, but their help doesn’t stop there.

By: Alexis Mays

E

very day, firefighters answer to calls of emergencies. The men and women of the Corpus Christi Fire Department are on the frontlines of fires, medical emergencies, and disasters. However, they’re not stopping there—some are following a passion beyond that initial call.

The Corpus Christi Professional Fire Fighters Relief and Outreach Fund is an organization, created by local firefighters, to help residents in our area who have been displaced by fires. They also come to the aid of fellow firefighters and their families who are struck by serious illness and injury, or sometimes even death.

When disaster strikes, victims can be left without food, clothing, or shelter because insurance companies can take days or weeks to provide money for basic needs. Although charities like the Red Cross can help in times like this, all too often it’s not enough to cover everything a person needs.

The organization began in 2013 when firefighters Johnny Stobbs, Brendan Pierce, Kenneth Erben, Amber Lopez, and Emilio Hernandez discussed this common occurrence. They recognized that our community needed help filling those gaps that people commonly experience when dealing with a crisis.

28 The Bend

“We saw families burned out of their homes and they needed help getting clean clothes, toiletries, or a room in a hotel,” Pierce recalls, and with that, a unique charity was born.

The mission to help displaced residents is where 70% of the organization’s efforts goes towards.

Justin Schroeder, a member of the group says, “I like to think of it as a community giving back to the community,” and they’ve done exactly that.

Since its start, they’ve helped more than 137 families in the community.

Stobbs explains, “we want people to know that once it’s all said and done, when the fire’s put out and that everything’s put away, that we’re not gone. We’re still here to help you get back on your feet.”

When a resident experiences a fire, the captain or battalion chief on scene can contact the Relief and Outreach Fund for a needs assessment.

From there, it doesn’t take long to get a person the help they need.

“We’re now able to get people a check in 24 or 48 hours,” Pierce is proud to announce. The bylaws of the organization allow the group to provide up to $500 to a family. Now in its fifth year, this organization has provided more than $60,000 to those in need.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

The Corpus Christi Professional Firefighters Relief and Outreach Fund is hoping to spread awareness about this community resource.

“Our biggest goal is to get the word out that this program exists, and it’s here for you,” Schroeder explains.

The Relief and Outreach Fund runs completely off fundraisers and donations. Get connected with them today at: facebook.com/ccreliefandoutreachfund. There, you can donate, help spread awareness by sharing their posts, and receive notifications about upcoming events.

Your next chance to get involved is just around the corner during their annual golf tournament.

The Fallen Heroes 343 Golf Tournament will be held at North Shore Country Club on September 15, 2017. Register today at www.corpuschristifirefightersoutreach.com.

601 Ayers St. Corpus Christi, TX 78415 361-814-4437

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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29

ARTISTRY BEAUTY

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• Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery • Certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery • Certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery

HERVE F.GENTILE MD, FACS A BETTER YOU COSMETIC SURGERY & LASER CENTER Clinical Assist. Professor of Surgery (Plastic Surgery), Medical College of Georgia

361.881.9999

Membership matters:

Dr. Gentile is member of the elite American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and others too many to mention.

He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

30 The Bend

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.

Discover how you too can look great by simply calling (361) 881-9999 for a consultation.

We invite you to learn more through our website: www.tolookgreat.com www.tolookgood.com *Financing available and all credit cards are accepted*

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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Destinations JULY 2017

QUICK TRIP 32 LOCAL DISCOVERY 34

What’s Inside Tucked away at the very end of North Chaparral sits an Asian architectural inspired building. The Museum of Asian Cultures is a place most people in the Coastal Bend do not know about, but most definitely should.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

31

Destinations | Quick Trip

Fun Facts

1. Boardwalk Bullet, located on the Kemah Boardwalk, is the only wooden rollercoaster located on Texas’s Gulf Coast. It is 96’ tall and features a 92’ vertical drop, top speeds of 51mph, and is designed with 42 track crossovers (the highest number of crossovers of any wooden rollercoaster in the US).

2. The city name, Kemah, stems from the Karankawa Indian word meaning “wind in my face.”

Kickin’ It in Kemah This charming bayside community is a must-see spot where the sea breeze is inviting and the family entertainment is endless.

By: Jarred Schuetze Photos: Courtesy of the City of Kemah

Originally a small fishing town named Evergreen, the city of Kemah has since grown into a popular tourist destination located on Galveston Bay. Thanks to attractions such as the Kemah Boardwalk, millions of visitors from coast to coast make their way to Kemah each year for some fun in the sun.

Where to Stay: Boardwalk Inn – Relax and have a ball at the Boardwalk Inn, proudly placed in the center of the Kemah Boardwalk. This prime location provides the convenience of shops, food, and entertainment right outside the hotel doors. The Boardwalk Inn has nearly 50 deluxe rooms and a handful of

32 The Bend

beautiful suites which feature coastal architecture, seaside color palettes, nautical décor, oversized bathrooms, and stunning views of the Galveston Bay.

www.kemahboardwalkinn.com

Where to Eat: Eculent – Undoubtedly the most memorable dining experience you could possibly have. Eculent is a modern farm to table venue which dismisses dining norms to deliver a complete sensory and imaginative culinary experience.

Chef David Christopher Skinner takes guests on a gastronomic journey utilizing unusual flavor combinations, scents, textures, sights, and even sounds to tell captivating and intricate stories with food.

Booking a table in advance is a must considering the restaurant's immense popularity.

www.eculent.com

Where to Drink: Art of Coffee – Art of Coffee is a charming local coffee shop that has made its home in the heart of Kemah. This shop offers a wholesome variety of coffee, tea, and fresh smoothies as well as a select menu of delicious bites. Stop by and indulge in a cup of joe and friendly conversation all while admiring the unique local art that consumes the coffee shop's walls. You won’t be disappointed.

609 Bradford Ave. Kemah, TX

Where to Explore: Kemah Boardwalk – When in Kemah there is no place better to spend the day than at the boardwalk. Appropriately located on the Galveston Bay, Kemah Boardwalk is home to remarkable waterfront

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

restaurants, thrilling amusement rides, charming retail stores, festivals, and seaside shows every day. The boardwalk is open daily, though ride operations vary depending on season and weather. Take the family out for a fun-filled adventure on this notable Galveston gem.

www.kemahboardwalk.com

Where to Relax: Sailaway Charters – Escape the rut of an ordinary day by enjoying the wind, waves, and sunshine with family and friends on a fun sailing adventure. The Sailaway Catamarans make for an unforgettable and relaxing experience out on the water. Indulge yourself in a custom retreat; choose from bi-hourly rentals or party packages with varying times, destinations, and number of passengers. Whatever your desires, Sailaway can provide you the cruise of a lifetime.

www.sailawaycat.com

Where to Shop: I Spy the Perfect Piece – The name says it all. This lovely resale and consignment shop, located on 6th, is a prime example of finding a needle in the haystack. The shop is comprised of everything from designer clothing to vintage furniture. Spend an hour or spend the day perusing the seemingly endless stock of fabulous items meticulously scattered throughout the eclectic shop. It is near impossible to leave without stumbling upon something you’d love to take home.

Don’t wait, find your perfect piece today.

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Destinations | Local Discovery

A Home for Posterity The Texas State Museum of Asain Culture and Education Center is ready and waiting to take you on a journey to a different land.

By: Kylie Kinnett Photos: Jarred Schuetze

T

he story behind The Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures and Education Center starts over 40 years ago with a woman named Billie Chandler. Those who knew her describe her as a tiny, yet powerful, force to be reckoned with, who had a passion for Asian cultures.

Chandler spent 17 years in Japan where she collected thousands of dollars worth of artifacts. Her dream was to come to Corpus and start a cultural center in order to share that passion with the rest of the community. Originally named The Japanese Cultural Center, Chandler opened up her doors in 1972 to the public in the Padre Staples Mall.

After changing their location a few times, the museum faced a series of financial issues forcing them to close their doors on multiple occasions throughout a ten year time span. “People forgot about us for a while because we weren’t open to the public, but we are still here and really trying to build ourselves back up,”

34 The Bend

Chester Topolski, the General Manager at the museum, says.

The museum is indeed alive and thriving with an extensive collection of artifacts that each tell a unique story of their own.

About 70% of the museum is made up of Japanese items, however they also represent the cultures of India, Thailand, the Philippines, and other Asian countries.

Take a walk around the museum and you will be in awe of the hundreds of artifacts on display.

Aside from the original artifacts from Billie Chandler, the entire collection the museum hosts consists of items donated to them over the years. “It’s really through the generosity of people who want to share with us that we have been able to curate such a selection,” Topolski says.

One of the main attractions is their 17th century bronze Buddha that was donated to them years ago from a Christian church. Another must-see is their beau-

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

A One-of-a-Kind Collection: During the period in which the museum closed its doors, a gentleman caught word of the fact that they had the world’s largest ricotta doll collection. When he finally made contact with a board member, it became known that his grandmother actually would make dolls for Billie Chandler upon her request. This means a significant portion of their collection is one-of-a-kind!

tiful ivory and jade collection—which was actually carved by a Corpus native. Topolski tells the story of their ricotta doll collection and how, at one time, they had the largest collection in the world with 2,300 dolls in their possession.

They are down to about 1,000 now, but the collection is still just as impressive.

He mentions the purpose of each artifact they take in is really just to further educate the community about cultures other than their own. “We aren’t looking for anything in particular,” he says, “Just items that tell a story and then we create a home of posterity for them.”

The second floor of the museum hosts educational classes for children of all ages where they can learn certain aspects of Asian cultures, such as how to eat with chopsticks, say hello in numerous Asian languages, play dress up, and craft origami.

The Texas State Museum of Asian Cultures and Education Center is home to fascinating artifacts from a different land. Topolski refers to the museum as “Corpus’ best untold secret,” however this is one secret that surely needs to be shared.

2016 — 2017

Thank You Coastal Bend for Voting Us

1809 N. Chaparral Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 www.asianculturesmuseum.org

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36 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

LOCAL'S

LIST 2017 O

ne of our goals here at The Bend Magazine is to provide our community with tips and suggestions in order to create the finest Coastal Bend experience. However, once a year, we turn things over to the readers in hopes of finding out what they love best. The second annual Local’s List began with nominations from each of you in regards to your favorite restaurants, shops, people, and places to explore. Once we had our list curated, we opened up the voting and your voices began to pour in. So, alas, the locals have spoken, and we are merely here to report—here are your winners for The Local’s List 2017! [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

37

ART GALLERY:

CULTURE &

THE ART MUSEUM OF SOUTH TEXAS With a new exhibit every couple of months, the Art Museum of South Texas is the best way to take a trip to a different time and place and get your art fix all at the same time. There is no shortage of sites to see; from the pieces hanging on the wall to the Corpus Christi Bay right outside its windows, this museum has it all.

1902 N. Shoreline Blvd.

(361) 825-3500

ARTS THEATER HARBOR PLAYHOUSE This community theater is home to plenty of tall tales and memories. With what began as just a simple newspaper article calling all actors, the theater has grown to life over the past 89 years.

Catch their rendition of Beauty and the Beast this summer. Stay tuned for any of their classic, musical, or contemporary plays throughout the year.

1802 N. Chaparral St. (361) 882-5500

38 The Bend

ENTERTAINMENT

LOCAL COVER BAND CHICAS ROCK Music and creativity go hand in hand, but pairing the two with the concept of building young girls’ self-esteem is a brilliant mixture. Female empowerment is ever so important, and what could be more empowering than girls training other girls how to jam out on a guitar or knock out a drum solo. Chicas Rock is committed to teaching girls ages 5 and up how to rock out and feel good about themselves all at the same time.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

FESTIVAL DIA DE LOS MUERTOS This festival takes the term block party to a whole new level. As a way to honor those who have passed away, Dia De Los Muertos celebrates culture and tradition. Every year the streets of downtown come to life with food, live music, and art as a way to bring the community together and remember the past.

Downtown, Starr St. diadelosmuertoscc.com

LIVE MUSIC VENUE BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE When it comes to live music, Brewster Street knows best. Every Thursday through Saturday you can arrive at the venue with high expectations for a night filled with jams. Maybe you’re into '80s cover bands paired with all the neon colors and tube socks you could imagine, or possibly Texas Country is more up your alley. Regardless, Brewster Street is sure to have a night on their lineup that fulfills all your dancing desires.

1724 N. Tanchahua St. (361) 884-2739

FISHING GUIDE GERONIMO LEAL Drop your line and get hooked on Geronimo’s favorite local fishing spots. If you’re in pursuit of the perfect catch, look no further than Geronimo Leal. Captain Geronimo promises to take you out and reel in that trophy trout. Bring your fishing license and sunscreen, and he will provide the rest!

(361) 946-2025

FAMILY ATTRACTION TEXAS STATE AQUARIUM

LOCAL BAND JAKE WARD BAND Originating right here in Corpus Christi, the Jake Ward Band has been on a fast track to more than one successful single. By mixing elements from both classic rock and country, the band has been able to distinguish a unique sound for themselves and have become a definite local favorite.

Jakewardmusic.com

Looking for a fun filled day for the whole family? The Texas State Aquarium is home to various different species and has a mission to engage the community with animals, inspire appreciation for our seas, and support wildlife conservation. Whether you are in search for an educational field trip or an exciting thrill of touching stingrays and watching dolphins flip around, the aquarium is the place to be.

2710 N. Shoreline Blvd. (361) 881-1200

MUSEUM: CORPUS CHRISTI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY While we can’t be certain of whether or not the items in this museum come to life at night, we can be sure of one thing: how easy it is to be immersed into a different world when entering the Museum of Science & History. The eclectic collection of artifacts and exhibits allow the museum to be one of the best (and most fun) ways to learn and explore. All that being said, it is no surprise they won our local’s favorite museum.

1900 N. Chaparral St. (361) 826-4667

A NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

PALEONTOLOGY EXHIBIT: This exhibit takes each visitor back in time and allows them to see some of the creatures that roamed the Earth over 65 million years ago.

With models of dinosaur fossils put together to form life-like skeletons and a cave-like viewing center that plays informational videos on a loop, this exhibit is one you don’t want to miss.

LOCAL BOOK AUTHOR MURPHY GIVENS Author, audio broadcaster, columnist, and editor—these are all titles which you could give Mr. Givens. If there is a tale to be told about Corpus Christi, he is your man. Both his books and columns recall narratives from Corpus Christi's past. From adventures of cowboys to anecdotes of settling pioneers, he has more than a few stories up his sleeve.

LOCAL SINGER SONGWRITER CLARISSA SERNA Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Clarissa Serna is no stranger to the stage. You might know her from her various performances around town or maybe her time spent on NBC’s The Voice. Regardless of how you recognize her name, you definitely recognize her talent.

Clarissaserna.com

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

SHIPWRECK EXHIBIT: Here, you can find a replica of the oldest excavated shipwreck in the Western Hemisphere, the San Esteban and Espirtu Santo ships which actually crashed off the coast of Padre Island. Walk in and around the ships and get a feel for what life was like for the people aboard and then scope out some of the artifacts on display recovered from the ships.

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BAKERY, SWEET TREATS, BRUNCH & SANDWICH HESTER’S CAFÉ Romance might have been what brought owners Jason and Hester Rodriguez together, but their love (and talent) for all things café has allowed their business to flourish. Ask anyone in the community about Hester’s Café and you are sure to get a gleaming review. It’s no surprise Hester’s won in four different categories for this year’s Local’s List. Walk in to any of their three locations and you will be greeted by smiling faces and the smell of whatever fresh baked goods just came out of the oven. Homemade pastries, mimosas, and tasty sandwiches are all up for grabs at this local favorite.

Six Points: 1714 S. Alameda St. (361) 885-0558, Lamar Park: 3812 S. Alameda St. (361) 855-1892, Art Museum: 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd. (361) 885-0151

FOOD TRUCK MISE EN PLACE MOBILE CAFÉ AND TACOBAR STREET

FOOD, DRINK & NIGHTLIFE BURGER:

COFFEE SHOP

PADRE ISLAND BURGER COMPANY

COFFEE WAVES Calling all caffeine enthusiasts: Coffee Waves has the perfect cup of joe for you! If you enjoy iced coffee, their Toddy cold brew can help you with that extra jolt of energy in the mornings. Maybe hot drinks are more your style, if so, their traditional macchiatos (with exceptional latte art) will make you bright eyed and bushy tailed. Regardless of how you take your coffee, Coffee Waves has you covered.

Corpus Christi: 5738 S. Alameda (361) 986-0481, Port A:1007 State Hwy 361 (361) 749-0825, Flour Bluff: 10309 S.P.I.D (361) 353-4586

We don’t want none unless it’s Padre Island’s buns, hun. This local favorite dishes out gourmet burgers on the daily that cater to all your burger loving needs. Build your own or pick from the various choices on their menu all while enjoying their laid back atmosphere on the island.

11878 TX-361, (361) 949-3490

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With food trucks being all the rage right now, it is no surprise that we had a tie for favorite food truck. Mise en Place Mobile Café puts a spin on your typical modern American food with dishes like their Siracha Lime Chicken Salad or the Citrus Glazed Shrimp Kabobs. Tacobar Street specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine while adding a little Asian twist. Don’t let their mobile location fool you, their authentic eats are top notch.

You can find both trucks at various events around town or visit their Facebook pages to scope out their next stop!

Mise en Place Mobile Café- 5638 Bear Ln Corpus Christi, TX 78405 (361) 445-1304, Tacobar Street: 415 Peoples St., (361) 453-6457

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LORELEI 101 We made a visit to the brewery to compile a list of a few beers and spotlight their tasting notes and what they pair best with.

“The Dude”

“Roscoe Red on Nitro”

The Russian Imperial Coffee Milk Stout

The Irish Rec Ale

Tasting notes: coffee, chocolate, and roasted malt

Tasting notes: malt, sweetness, and nutty

Pairs best with: tiramisu, chocolate cake, or even make a float out of it

LOCAL MICROBREWERY

The Double Indian Pale-Ale

This year’s pick for favorite local microbrewery goes to Lorelei Brewing Company. Their vast selection of beers guarantees each of its patrons a good time. We made a visit to the brewery to compile a list of a few beers and spotlight their tasting notes and what they pair best with.

520 NAS Dr. bl. 002 (361) 445-1084

Tasting notes: mango, grapefruit, and other tropical fruit flavors Pairs best with: spicy foods, Thai food, or carrot cake

COCKTAILS THE POST AT LAMAR PARK

STEAK NIKO’S STEAKHOUSE Experience the perks of fine dining without burning a hole through your wallet! Immediately upon arrival the smell of mesquite wood fills your nose and you know you are in for a treat. Niko’s offers savory steaks with all the trimmings.

5409 Saratoga (361) 992-2333

“Khryseis” The Blonde Ale

“Ephyra”

LORELEI BREWING

Paris best with: Pecan pie or barbeque

Tasting notes: malt, biscuity, and citrus Pairs best with: a hot summer day, barbeque, or really anything you can think of (this is your “everyday” beer)

MARGARITA LA PLAYA

While staying true to its Corpus roots, The Post acquired its name from the old post office that used to occupy its space. This gastropub pays homage to the pre-prohibition style of cocktails, yet with a modern twist. They use fresh ingredients in all their cocktails to ensure the finest quality of drinks that keeps us all coming back for more.

411 Doddridge St #102, (361) 452-0907

These powerful margs, both in flavor and strength, will actually make you feel as though you are laying on the beach. If you are in search for the best margarita in town you undoubtedly will want to head over to La Playa.

It also helps that they are only $2.50 during happy hour!

4201 S.P.I.D. (361) 853-4282, 5017 Saratoga Blvd. #131 (361) 986-0089

BEER LIST

HEALTH FOODS

B&J’S PIZZA- BREW PUB The first thing that probably comes to mind when you think of B&J’s is their delicious pizza; however, their beer selection is certainly worth noting. This microbrewery has a type of beer to fit anyone’s preferences—if you are a hops fanatic or just want a simple Lonestar, they have a beer for you.

6662 S Staples St, (361) 985-6474

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JOINT VENTURE Over at Joint Venture, they are all about S.O.L. (Sustainable Organic and Local). Sourcing from local Texas farmers, they create some of the freshest food items in town. Their sandwiches are served on home-baked bread and each one is filled full with tasty ingredients that won’t make you regret what you just ate!

6355 S.P.I.D. (361) 334-0512

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DATE NIGHT

HAPPY HOUR

THE POST AT LAMAR PARK

THE POST AT LAMAR PARK

Even though The Post sits inside a rather large building, they were able to create cozy corners with just the right amount of dim lighting and candlelight for you on date night.

The ambience and mood are perfect for you to enjoy dinner and drinks with that special someone in an intimate setting.

Some refer to The Post as their neighborhood watering hole and we completely agree. Go and enjoy your favorite drinks after that 9 to 5 and disregard all your worries from the day! With great happy hour specials all week, you can’t pick a bad day to unwind here.

ASIAN CUISINE THAI COTTAGE If you are trying to impress your plus-one without breaking the bank, this Thai restaurant might just be the place to do so. Curry, Pad Ke Mow, and fried rice galore — Thai Cottage has the atmosphere of a quaint lodge that allows you to cozy up and kick your Asian cravings.

5830 McArdle Rd, (361) 993-0777

411 Doddridge St #102, (361) 452-0907

BREAKFAST TACO NANO’S TACO RUN Everyone knows Corpus Christi has the best breakfast tacos in Texas, but as for where to find the top one in town… That can be tricky.

Nano’s takes the crown for taco favorite and there is no doubt as to why. Get the taste of real authentic Mexican food right here in town.

Run through their drive through or take a seat inside and enjoy a hearty-sized breakfast taco. Plus, for all you late-to-risers, they serve breakfast all day!

4722 Holly Rd, (361) 854-8121

BARBEQUE HOWARD’S BBQ This family owned and operated barbeque joint has all the tender brisket you could dream of with all the finxins to go with it. Howard’s serves up bona fide South Texas BBQ fresh every day that will definitely leave your mouth watering and fingers that need to be licked.

1002 Antelope St, (361) 882-1200

PIZZA: MESQUITE STREET PIZZA AND PASTA CO. Mesquite Street sets out to bring the best food, drinks, and entertainment to the community. Originating in 2013, this unique restaurant has been cooking up the best pizzas in town. We took it upon ourselves to scope out some of their favorite pies on the menu and break them down for you guys.

617 N Mesquite St. (361) 882-7499

A SLICE OF KNOWLEDGE: Each pizza has the same base of homemade cracker thin dough, tomato red sauce, and fresh whole milk mozzarella cheese. The baking method for all of their pizzas consists of 7 to 10 minutes in a stone oven.

Margherita Pizza: Fresh basil, thinly sliced mozzarella, and tomatoes

Meat Lovers: Pepperoni, black forest ham, Italian sausage crumbles, and bacon crumbles

Brandon’s Meatball: Pepperoni, Italian meatballs, mushrooms, and black olives

KIDFRIENDLY BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE There is so much more to Brewster Street than good food, drinks, and live music.

This triple threat establishment also provides fun for the kids! Their massive playground out back is just one way Brewster’s creates a family fun environment. A basketball court, outdoor seating, and plenty of room to run around all add to an experience worth sharing with the kids.

1724 N. Tanchahua St. (361) 884-2739

SUSHI ROCK & ROLL SUSHI LOUNGE While the concept of sushi is creative and unique on its own, Rock & Roll Sushi Lounge cranks things up a notch. Their menu is broken down into sections like Opening Act and One Hit Wonders which makes ordering all the more fun. Their delicious take on sushi is one for the books! 15121 S.P.I.D. #101 (361) 949-1110

FRIED CHICKEN PETE’S CHICKEN-N-MORE All your fried chicken desires can be fulfilled at your local Pete’s Chicken. Dark meat, white meat, legs, or thighs, Pete’s can satisfy your hunger with any of the items they have to offer.

4128 S Staples (361) 853-2143, 4101 S Port Ave. (361) 8551675, 6502 Yorktown Blvd.

(361) 991-0805

DINER/DIVE SNOOPY’S PIER This longtime local favorite provides fun and good food for the whole family. Their fresh seafood dishes are always up to par, and the view you have while eating is pretty hard to beat.

With an on-site fish house and shrimp breeding facility, you can expect nothing but the best from Snoopy’s Pier!

13313 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-8815

ITALIAN CUISINE LUCIANO’S A calm atmosphere mixed with exquisite cuisine help create this local favorite Italian restaurant. Dating all the way back to the 70s, Luciano’s has been providing Corpus Christi with nothing but the finest dishes with 25 entrees on the menu and a passion for traditional Italian food in their heart.

1821 S Alameda St. (361) 882-3191 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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SEAFOOD WATER STREET SEAFOOD COMPANY Water Street Seafood Co. is inspired by the culinary arts, however their focus is on the customers. Enjoy the freshest catch in the city at this local pick in the heart of downtown. Each dish is curated with care and flavors that are nothing short of delicious 309 N. Water St. (361) 881-9448

WINE LIST VINO MIO SOCIAL CLUB This wine bar has a vast assortment of wines from all over the world!

Whether you’re in the mood for an oaky glass of red or a crisp glass of white, Vino Mio will quench your thirst. Aside from their wide array of wines, they have live music weekly featuring local artists.

4102 S Staples (361) 728-6445

Thank you Coastal Bend, for voting us LOCAL’S FAVORITE NEW RESTAURANT!

1220 AIRLINE RD. #250 CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78412

WINGS

361.723.0261 | @8TECCTX

WINGS & MORE Wings & More’s story begins with founder Mark Dennard’s love for chicken wings. That love turned into our community’s favorite stop to eat wings and chicken tenders. Order wings dipped in one of their 11 sauces to choose from and don’t forget those curly fries!

6022 Sarazen Dr. (361) 980-8044

NEW RESTAURANT 8TE

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

BEST BABY CLOTHING

It was a refreshing moment when 8TE popped onto the scene almost two years ago! This Modern-American restaurant has something for every palate. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and each meal has nothing but the freshest ingredients. 8TE brings a new way of homestyle cooking to the Coastal Bend and boy are we happy they did.

1220 Arline #250 (361) 723-0261

TWO CONSECUTIVE YEARS!

four chicks in the park 3810 S. ALAMEDA, #22 CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS 78411 361.854.4446 HOURS: MON-FRI: 10AM - 5:30PM SAT: 10AM - 5PM SUN: CLOSED

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HEALTH SHOPPING

& BEAUTY

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BEAUTY/DAY SPA THE WOODHOUSE DAY SPA You don’t have to go very far to find a peaceful and luxurious getaway. The Woodhouse Day Spa is committed to providing its clients with a soothing experience to rejuvenate both the body and mind.

Book a massage, facial, or pedicure (to name a few) and allow yourself to relax.

minimalist beauty

6000 S. Staples, Ste. 410, (361) 985-8488

Farmers’ Market Vendor WE ARE SO THANKFUL WE GET TO DO WHAT WE LOVE.

FINE JEWELRY CASA DE ORO JEWELERS This fine jewelry store is home to unique, custom, and hand-crafted accessories that will make the perfect finishing touch to any outfit. Casa de Oro has tons of collections to choose from and each is as special as the next.

4940 Gollihar Rd. (361) 991-7054

FITNESS GYM FIT4MOM You might have caught a glimpse of a squad of moms and their strollers in the early hours of the morning working out around town. If so, you can bet it was FIT4MOM in all their glory. This workout program allows moms to come together and build both their physical and emotional strength!

Corpuschristi.fit4mom.com, (361) 739-8309

FLORIST BLOSSOM SHOP Thank You Coastal Bend for Voting Us

Floral arrangements are pieces of art, and we must give credit where credit is due. Blossom Shop creates one of a kind floral designs and each one is specialized to the needs of the customer. If you are needing a florist for an event, or just want a nice bouquet in your house, this shop will create a gorgeous arrangement for you.

5417 S. Staples (361) 992-7011

Local’s Favorite Pizza!

617 N. Mesquite St., Corpus Christi, TX

361.882.7499 www.eatpizzadowntown.com

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WOMEN’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

GIFT SHOP

HAIR SALON

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING

RESALE SHOP

FOUR CHICKS IN THE PARK

THREADS

JEWELS Next time you are looking for a new look head-totoe, head over to Jewels and pick out an outfit with beautiful accessories to go with it! This boutique has it all, and it is highly unlikely you will leave empty handed.

-Velvet Heart denim dress: $82 -Jewels custom fringe earrings: $18 5830 McArdle Rd. # 9 (361) 991-7222

HAMLIN FOUNTAIN AND GIFTS

SALON DIVINE

While Hamlin might be known for their burgers and shakes, don’t forget to stop in the next time you are shopping for a gift or even something for yourself. Their gift shop has a wide variety of items and is a one-stop shop for fulfilling all your gift giving needs.

-Finchberry Soap: “Clean & Fresh”: $9 -South American Bag: $42 3801 S Staples St. (361) 853-7303

Whether you are needing a trim or a whole new look, Salon Divine has you covered. Their goal is to keep up with the latest trends and never send a customer out the door without looking and feeling their best.

-Davines Oi Shampoo and Conditioner w/ roucou oil -Shampoo: $28 -Conditioner: $34 6646 S Staples #132 (361) 980-8800

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The trendiest children’s clothing in town can be found at Four Chicks in the Park. From tiny little shoes to the cutest tutu dresses, all your baby shopping can be done here!

-James & Lottie Children’s Clothing: The Pastel Swiss Dress: $87 -Elephantito Leather Caramel Sandals: $45 3810 S. Alameda St. Ste. 22, (361) 854-4446

Buy, Sell, and Trade, are the words to live by around the thrift store we all know and love.

Dubbing Threads as the trendiest resale shop around, they are always on the lookout for the latest trends in order to bring them to you at low prices.

-Old Navy pale pink flats: $8 -Ray Ban black and gold sunglasses: $90 4646 Everheart Rd. (361) 884-7323

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FURNITURE CHIC TO CHIC If you are staring at a blank space in your house and can’t quite seem to figure out what to put there, you might want to take a trip over to Chic To Chic. This furniture store offers a trendy and fresh take on all things home décor and can definitely help you create the house of your dreams.

526 Everheart rd. (361) 883-2442

HANDCRAFTED PRODUCT & FARMER'S MARKET VENDOR TULA BLUE Island vibes meets minimalism. Tula Blue mixes leather rope and various jewels and stones to create pieces that complement any outfit. Each of the items are handcrafted and made to perfection. You can find these one-ofa-kind accessories online or visit the Island’s Farmers' Market where Tula Blue sets up every other Thursday. etsy.com/shop/tulabluedesigns

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MEDICAL SPA VIJAY BINDINGNAVELE MD PA Dr. Vijay sets out to help each of his clients feel great about themselves and the skin they’re in! His practice includes various cosmetic surgeries and other non-surgical skincare methods that all aim to improve the way you feel and look.

5826 Esplanade Dr. (361) 888-7417

YOGA STUDIO YOGA STUDIO OF CORPUS CHRISTI This yoga studio exists for the sole purpose of helping others in the community in their route to self discovery and bettering their mental and physical state. Yoga has tons of benefits; however, this studio simply wants to help your light shine through. Whether you are a beginner or a hardcore yogi, there is a class for you!

513 Clifford St, (361) 883-1052

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Thank You Coastal Bend for Voting us

Local’s Favorite Wine List!

4102 S. Staples St. • Corpus Christi, TX 361.728.6445 • @vmsocialclub

Thank You Coastal Bend for Voting Us

2016 — 2017

When flowers aren’t enough...

Proudly Serving South Texas for Almost 40 Years!

4940 GOLLIHAR RD, CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78414 | 361.991.7054 | CASADEOROJEWELERS.COM

SPORTS & MEDIA NEWS ANCHOR KATIA URIARTE Regardless of the daily news station you prefer, there is one thing we can agree on: we all know and love Katia Uriarte. Your local pick for favorite news anchor was given to Katia and it is clear to see why. Her smile is infectious and she tells it like it is when it comes to providing the Coastal Bend with the latest updates!

Kiiitv.com

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LOCAL DJ & TALK RADIO HOST COCO FROM 99.1 Being a radio personality is no small feat, but CoCo makes it look easy. A typical work day for her starts around 4 AM and keeps going full speed ahead from there. Listening to her “Wake Up South Texas” morning show is the perfect way to start your day! coco@k99country.com, (361) 560-5991

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Thank You Coastal Bend for Voting us

Local’s Favorite Food Truck!

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LOCAL SPORTS TEAM CORPUS CHRISTI HOOKS Every year when April rolls around, the CC Hooks begin to bat up for the season. This hometown favorite has made baseball fans out of us all and allows summer nights in Corpus to be a little bit more fun. The Hooks are the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros and has a roster filled with amazing talent.

734 E Port Ave.

4646 EVERHART RD. CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 361.884.7323 | WWW.THREADSCORPUSCHRISTI.COM

Thank You Coastal Bend for Voting Us

Local’s Favorite Resale Shop!

Thank you for voting us the best gii shop in the Coastal Bend

3801 S Staples @ Weber 52 The Bend

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LOOKING FOR FUN ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR KIDS AT A GAME? CHECK OUT THESE COOL FEATURES WHATABURGER FIELD HAS TO OFFER!

Thank You Coastal Bend for Voting us the Local’s Favorite in 4 Categories!

JUNIOR BASEBALL FIELD Bring your baseball gear and join in on a junior pick up game directly behind the pros.

POOL & SPA

Best Sweet Treats & Best Bakery

Beat the heat this summer and rent out the pool and spa area for the coolest time at Whataburger Field.

ROCK CLIMBING TOWER Slip on your harness and hold on tight. Clamber your way to the top of the 27ft rock climbing wall.

BASKETBALL COURT Lace up your kicks and join the fun by shooting hoops on this regulation basketball court.

BOUNCE HOUSE The Hooks make you wanna, Jump! Jump!

In a bounce house you gotta, Jump! Jump!

KID’S PLAYGROUND Let the kids burn some energy in this safe and monitored interactive playground.

Best Brunch

Best Sandwich

SIX POINTS • LAMAR PARK • ART MUSEUM

BUNGEE TRAMPOLINE Flip and flop your way to endless smiles on this lively trampoline.

5830 MCARDLE RD. SUITE 9 | 361.991.7222 Thank You Coastal Bend for Voting Us the

Local’s Favorite Women’s Clothing Boutique! [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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A West

Side Story

By: Alexis De Leon Photos: Rachel Benavides

Our Lady of Guadalupe Church gathers the support of Corpus Christi to empower its youth For the fortunate, family dinners, new outfits, and even attending high school are a regular occurrence. Gathering around large home-cooked meals and taking an active interest in each other’s lives may have been common place. However, for many children right here in the Coastal Bend, this stability doesn’t exist. At least, it did not exist, until a man, a vision, a church, and a community came together.

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n the small town of Ridgefield, Connecticut, tucked away in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, a young Italian boy was being raised among love and laughter. This happy childhood would lay the foundation on which Father James Farfaglia could later aid a community in breaking a cycle of instability for children in need. “I had a very happy childhood. Our home was the social center of the neighborhood. There was always something going on, especially on Sundays when our grandparents, great-grandparents, and other relatives would visit. Our neighborhood friends would always be with us as well,” Farfaglia remembers. “There was always plenty of food and lots of laughter.”

Farfaglia was no stranger to hard work. With dreams of going to college, he worked a part-time job in high school in order to afford his dreams. “My dad was in the restaurant business. His first restaurant was kind of like Andy's Kitchen. I worked there every Saturday and all throughout the summers in order to save money for college. I really enjoyed working at my dad's restaurant. I learned a lot of about hard work and people.”

Raised by very devout Italian, Catholic parents, Farfaglia was always around hard-working people but had never considered becoming a Catholic priest. It was later in college that Farfaglia discovered a calling to the priesthood. “After my graduation from college, I joined a religious order of priests which allowed me to study, live, and work in Spain, Italy, Mexico, and throughout the

United States. In 1999, I decided to switch over to parish work and I built a parish for Bishop Edmond Carmody when he was the Bishop of Tyler, Texas,” Farfaglia says. “Bishop Carmody was transferred to the Diocese of Corpus Christi in 2000, and I decided to follow him here to the Coastal Bend.”

After establishing himself in the community, Farfaglia was asked to take over Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church during the summer of 2011. “When I arrived, I looked around the neighborhood and saw the needs of the community. I am not one to just sit around and do nothing, so I began to develop West Side Helping Hands with the support of numerous community leaders who really like what we are doing. I am very grateful for their friendship and support. I put together a team of youth educators, I got the funding, and we went to work,” Farfaglia recalls.

The team assembled includes Executive Director, Sergio Gonzalez, Director of Operations, Garner Burford, Academic Dean, Eulalio “Eito” Martinez, and Development Director, Curtis Speed. However, the team is also aided by countless support from the community, friends, and families as well as the six influential members of the board of directors.

Martinez knew he was a perfect fit for the position due to his experience growing up on the northwest side of Corpus Christi.

In a story written by the Corpus Christi Caller-Times, Marti-

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nez said, "We were poor and it's rough. I had to help out my grandparents, I only had two sets of clothes, and there are so many kids here with those same stories. I can see where these children come from, and it comes very naturally for me to help them and communicate with them.”

In order to monitor the success of WSHH, Farfaglia’s team tracks each student’s report card. This allows the team to see progress among individual students as well as the program as a whole. “All of our kids are showing improvement. This, of course, is very important, but the part of the program that I like the best is to see a bunch of kids from the barrio laughing, having a great time, and making great friends. To me, this is progress and reminds me of the kind of neighborhood that I grew up in as a kid. If I have a bunch of kids laughing, running around, playing sports, doing activities, and applying themselves to their studies in a structured and loving environment, that's good enough for me,” Farfaglia explains. “Last summer, we had a very successful summer program with 120 kids. This summer, we are expecting 140. During the school year, we serviced 25 - 35 kids a day in an excellent after school program, and next school year we are expecting 40 - 50 kids to participate.”

While Farfaglia is adamant about supporting the children of the community, he also sustains a passion for the finer things in life, such as travel and quality cigars. Part of the appeal of enjoying a cigar with friends are the conversations that have been born around the act. Farfaglia claims to have become an aficionado some 18 years ago. “Fine cigars are great, but the best part are my friends that smoke cigars too because the conversations are amazing. Some of us have traveled together to Nicaragua and Cuba to see, first hand, the cigar industry and making process,” recalls Farfaglia.

With a solid year under their belt, West Side Helping Hand has a better grip on what their future will hold. “We need to solidify our numbers during the school year and make sure that we solidify our funding sources. I am confident that this will happen without any problem at all. We are currently being funded by local charitable foundations who seem to really appreciate what we are accomplishing,” Farfaglia mentions.

Future plans also include some major expansions. “I can see us constructing a permanent facility on Baldwin on acquired property located close to the church. This then will provide a permanent location that will last well into the future for the kids of the west side. I can also see West Side Helping Hand taking our pilot program and spreading it on to different locations throughout the west side and perhaps even to other needy areas of South Texas. Of course, all of this will take sustainable funding sources and well-trained staff,” explains Farfaglia.

Exuding the hardworking, compassionate person he was raised to be, Farfaglia continues to remain humble in the midst of the program’s success. “We created West Side Helping Hand as a separate 501(c)(3) nonprofit because the project is not about the parish, but it is about the west side. I really believe in the west side and I want to see it develop. It is from the church location that we are reaching out to the kids and their families. Our goal is for all of our kids to live successful lives.”

For those looking to get involved and give back with West Side Helping Hand be sure to visit https://www.wshhcc.org/community . Those looking to learn more about the man, the myth, the legend, Father James Farfaglia, visit www.fatherjames.org/

7.27.17 ART MUSEUM OF SOUTH TEXAS 6:30PM - 9:30PM THE LOCAL’S HAVE VOTED Experience what the local’s love most through this interactive community event!

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW

PA R T Y

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Look for the Gold!

If you or a loved one needs rehabilitation following a stroke, look for the gold.

Corpus Christi Rehabilitation has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for its Advanced Stroke Rehabilitation program.

This accreditation is voluntary and reflects the hospital’s commitment to providing safe and effective care to patients who have suffered strokes.

We are committed to helping our patients return home with as much physical and cognitive independence as possible. We are passionate about patient care, and consider it a privilege to provide a higher standard of service in stroke rehabilitation to patients throughout Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend area.

For more information on our stroke program, please call 361-906-3700.

CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM

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5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414 • ph: 361.906.3700 58 The Bend

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After a Stroke Finding the Right Words

After a stroke, anomia can be a common symptom that makes it difficult to find the right words or ideas to share. However, with a little support and patience, communication is still possible.

It’s common to struggle at times to find the right word be more beneficial to help the person find the word they are during a conversation. But for an individual who has had a looking for rather than supplying it.” stroke, finding the right word may be much more difficult.

Aphasia can be a side effect of a stroke, which can affect To best communicate with someone under these circuma person’s ability to communicate by impairing the ability to stances, Morales provides the following suggestions: speak, read, listen or write. It doesn’t affect intelligence, how• Be patient. Allow plenty of time for a response. Talk with ever. When a person with aphasia has word-finding difficulty, the individual, not for him or her. it’s called anomia. Anomia is a common symptom of aphasia • Give the person time to respond and don’t rush him or her. that makes it difficult to find the words or ideas that a person • Ask “yes” or “no” questions that can be answered simply may wish to share. and without a lot of explanation.

“Anomia can be really frustrating for individuals because • Ask questions that can help zone in on what the individual they know what they want to say, but they just can’t find the wants to say. For example, if you were talking about flowers, words,” says Leticia Morales, Speech Pathologist at Corpus ask “Is it in our yard?”

Christi Rehabilitation Hospital. “It can make a conversation • Use photographs or pictures to help provide cues. difficult because sometimes the word will come and some• Write your cues – such as a letter or a drawing – on a piece times it won’t.” of paper to share.

There are various causes to word-finding problems in pa• Confirm and repeat back what the person has said. Use tients with aphasia, and they may present differently. For paraphrases or key words to be sure that you’re understanding example, one person may not be clear on the meaning of a properly. word so he or she may not be able to complete an errand that • Use gestures as you ask questions. requires knowing what the word means. Another person may not be able to identify a family member or name an item in a “The most important thing is to not ‘talk down’ to an indiphoto. And another may know a word and recognize it in print, vidual,” Morales says. “Be respectful and provide emotionbut may not be able to pronounce the sounds to say it, or an al support showing that you recognize that the person knows individual may say a word that’s a little bit off from the right what he or she wants to say. And remember that every word word (i.e. poon versus spoon). doesn’t have to be perfect, so downplay errors. Not all words “When these types of things happen in a conversation, need to be said perfectly to communicate.” the person who is speaking to the stroke survivor may want to To learn more about Corpus Christi Rehabilitation jump in quickly to supply the word,” Morales says. “But in Hospital’s aphasia services, email Leticia Morales at reality, that can be more of a hindrance than a help.

It would leticiamorales@ernesthealth.com or callthebendmag.com 361-906-3721. 59 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Health JULY 2017

BE WELL 62 FITNESS 64

What’s Inside Have you ever considered biking 4,000 miles in 70 days? Emily Murphy is one of the 76 riders who are doing just that in order to join the battle against cancer.

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Health | Be Well

What to Expect During Lessons: Infants 6 to 12 months can learn to:

6313 Legacy Point, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 815-5016

Staying Afloat This Coastal Bend swimming instructor is saving even the youngest of lives using unique and reliable methods By: Caroline R. Freeman Photos: Rachel Benavides

A

my Borden of Survival Swim Corpus Christi gives parents a confident peace of mind as she teaches infants as young as 6 months how to stay afloat in any situation.

water, so after graduating from Texas A&M University College Station, in 2004, Borden moved back to the Coastal Bend. She worked at Church Unlimited for 7 years, and it was there that she met her husband, Phillip, who is the Worship Pastor.

Living on the coast is thrilling with its many beautiful choices of ways to enjoy the water—the Gulf, bays, canals, lakes, rivers, pools…. the list goes on!

In order to fully enjoy all the water has to offer in a safe way, education is key, and Borden is teaching children and parents just that. She gives children life-saving water skills and parents an invaluable peace of mind.

They now have two children, Ethan and Adelyn. “We live on the island on a canal, so when my son was born in 2012 I knew he had to have Survival Swim skills in case he ever fell in our canal. The water is too murky and the bulkheads are too high; he had to know how to float,” she says.

Borden was born and raised in Corpus Christi. She loved living near the

62 The Bend

Amy signed Ethan up for Survival Swim lessons when he was 15 months old, but later that summer, the instructor moved to a new city. These

• Hold their breath in the water • Roll from a face-down position to a face up back float • Float, relax and breathe until rescued by an adult • Perform these skills fully clothed • Particularly active infants may also learn to propel a short distance through the water between two parents. Learning these skills takes approximately 12 to 20 lessons.

Children who are walking can learn to: • Hold their breath in the water • Swim with their face in the water to the steps, side, or parent • Roll over onto their back when they need to breathe • Flip back onto their tummy to continue swimming until reaching their destination, or roll to their back should they need to breathe again • Perform these skills fully clothed • While all children are different, the timeframe for mastering these skills is typically 16 to 24 lessons.

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water skills were too important to her family, so she got certified as a Survival Swim Instructor at the Texas Swim Academy in Houston and has been teaching for four years since.

What exactly is Survival Swimming? Survival Swim Development Network explains that it is “the ability of a baby to float and breathe, regardless of the water’s depth, for an indefinite period of time.” Though lessons are a commitment—4 days a week, 15 minutes a day, for roughly 6 weeks—the pay off was, and continues to be, worth it for parents and children everywhere.

For example, when Borden’s son was two and a half years old, he had a water incident. Borden explains, “He fell in our canal and immediately rolled on his back and floated. He was not scared. He simply did what he was trained to do. His biggest shock was that the water was salty!”

Borden’s children are the reason she became a Survival Swim Instructor, but she’s passionate about drowning prevention for all the children in Corpus Christi and the surrounding areas.

While she says it’s the parents bringing their kids to swim class who are the heroes, Amy Borden is most definitely saving lives and empowering her students with her fun and fundamental lessons.

Pediatric Dentistry | Orthodontics for Adults & Children

Health | Fitness

By the Numbers: • Initial Goal: $10,000

Biking for Benefit Cancer might be active, but so are the Texas 4000 for Cancer riders.

(Roughly $2 per mile biked)

• Current Funds Raised: $10,200.

• New Goal: $15,000 • Miles Per Day: 30mi • Total miles logged: 2,033 (Including training)

By: Jacqueline Gonzalez Photos: Rachel Benavides

T

exas 4000 for Cancer was founded by Chris and Mandy Condit in 2004, both engineering students at the University of Texas in Austin, to continue the fight against cancer by raising funds for cancer research and sharing hope, knowledge, and charity.

Emily Murphy, 22, grew up on the South Side of Corpus Christi, where she was raised with a great love for the outdoors and an athletic lifestyle.

Murphy is a Nursing student at the University of Texas in Austin and a member of the 2017 Texas 4000 for Cancer team. She is one of 76 students that will be completing

64 The Bend

the 70-day ride to Alaska. The Texas 4000 organization is a great way to reach out to communities and looks for students with a “passion to fight cancer, previous organizational involvement, good communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to work well with a team.”

The organization continues to evolve every day, and Murphy’s love of fitness, the outdoors, and sports, along with her courage to fight and determination to achieve her goals, makes her an indubitable fit for the organization’s mission.

Riding a bicycle is a great cardiovascular activity that helps develop strength, and riding for a cause involves a great deal of commitment.

Each rider must log a preliminary 2,000 miles on the bike, prior to

the summer event, as a requirement for the organization. Murphy bikes as much as she can, sometimes for multiple days in a row, to achieve this goal. Bicycle riding for extensive periods of time produces a restricted zone of movement for the body. In between biking sessions, she believes in maintaining fitness levels by engaging in frequent cross training fitness and flexibility exercises to stay in shape, prevent stiffness, injury, and wear and tear on her body. Murphy also maintains the health of her body by taking rest stops every 20 miles to stretch out, refill her water bottle, and grab some food. She is adamant on keeping the rest stops short and quick to prevent fatigue when continuing the ride.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Murphy knows firsthand the level of dedication, not only to the organization, but also to the sport, that is necessary to be successful on the ride to Alaska. She offers words of advice to future riders: “Be passionate about the organization and cause. Passion will take you the farthest and push you up every hill. At the end of the day, looking at who you ride for and what you want to accomplish gets you through.” Murphy gives credit to the love and support she receives from her parents and siblings as the strength to continue working towards her goals and fighting for what she believes in.

Read more about Emily’s journey at www.tinyurl.com/emily2alaska.

Local Residents: Mention code “little joe” and enjoy a complimentary glass of our house wine. *You must present ID showing you are a local resident.

Now In Lamar Park www.hanleywoodtexas.com

THE PORT FOR LEISURE AND LUXURY

a legacy of style since 1955

A LEXIS HUN TER INTERIORS A N N TAYLOR LOFT BKK THA I KITCHEN & BAR

HESTER’S CAFE

CHICO’S

JULIAN G OLD

FOUR CHICKS IN THE PAR K

LIT TLE PAPER CROWNS

FRANCIS CO’S SA LON

MAR KET

GOLDSM ITH JEWELERS

PIL AR FASHION & FOLK ART

GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

TALBOTS

HA N LEY • WOOD

THE POST

Blocks from Ocean Drive | 3850 S Alameda | Corpus Christi, TX

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A variety of upscale shops and dining just a stroll away from the seaside.

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66 The Bend

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Home & Garden JULY 2017

OPEN HOUSE 68 SPACES 70

What’s Inside If camping isn’t really included on your list of dream getaways, you might want to think again. Camp Coyoacan takes things up a notch and provides people with an unforgettable glamping experience.

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Home & Garden | Open House

Gulf Coast Glamping Sitting right in the heart of Port Aransas, Texas, Camp Coyoacan exists as a haven for those seeking the outdoor camping experience with just a little taste of luxury.

By: Alexa Alley Photos: Jason Page

F

or the last 25 years, the Scott family has been traveling to their “second home” in South Texas to camp on the beach and enjoy all that the South Texas coast has to offer. After growing up in Fort Worth, Port Aransas was the family vacation destination they always came back to. “It’s one of those towns that gets in your blood and you keep coming back to spend more time there,” Craig Scott recalls when talking about the reason Port Aransas was the perfect place for Camp Coyoacan.

Camping on the beach is something the Scott family has enjoyed for years and was an experience they wished to share with those that might be visiting the small beach town for the first time.

With its proximity to the beach, pristine restaurants, quirky dives, and small town feel, Port Aransas was the ideal place for the Scotts to call home.

However, the idea to create a luxury camping facility was not just one “aha!”

68 The Bend

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moment, says Craig. “We love to camp, we grew up camping, we like our comforts, but still like to be outside.” The Scott family assumed other first time visitors might feel the same way, so they “built something we would want to stay in.”

Not quite a tent, but not an airstream either, the tipi like tents and yurts create a happy medium for the complete “glamping” experience. Each one features two twin beds or one queen, a retro mini fridge, air condition, and vanity. All of this combined allows for the outdoor camping atmosphere without all the hassle.

Coyoacan, a neighborhood in Mexico City where Frida Kahlo spent time in, translates to “Land of the Coyotes.” This area of Port Aransas, as well as the neighborhood in Mexico City, both have an abundant coyote population, therefore landing itself as the name for the grounds and also explains the Frida inspired décor. Upon entering the property, the bright colors that reflect the Mexico City neighborhood and the “Frida tents” will be

sure to transport you to a place even further south.

First time visitors will be warmly greeted and shown around the campsite and receive advice on good restaurants and places to visit depending on the nature of the guests' stay. Since 60% of the people that visit the camp have never been to Port Aransas, and are usually from Austin or San Antonio, Craig assures them that “you’re not going to a resort” but rather “living like the locals” as laid back people who “just chill and go to the beach.” Guests can rent bicycles to ride around town or to the beach on, or even paddleboards for a little extra fun. Each guest at Camp Coyoacan will experience the one-of-a-kind atmosphere Port Aransas has to offer, and who knows, maybe you’ll “get hooked” and keep coming back just as the Scott family did years ago.

237 N Station St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (888) 521-9806

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History of Glamping For all those who love the outdoors, but do not want to sacrifice the comforts of air condition and plumbing, glamping might be just the experience for you! A mashup of the words glamorous and camping, some say the idea originates all the way back to the Turkish Ottomans who would set up extravagant tent cities as a palace for the Sultan. Others date it back to the early 1900s when Americans and Europeans traveling to Africa demanded a luxurious safari experience.

Either way, the idea of people enjoying the outdoors without sacrificing luxury has always been around, but now there is a name and a place for it right down the street in Port Aransas! thebendmag.com

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Home & Garden | Spaces

Get Planted!

Styling & Design By: Jo Anne Howell Photos: Rachel Benavides On Location With: Terri More of Wildflowers

I

nside houseplants are all the rage, but for some people, keeping those lovely green friends alive can be easier said than done. If you do not have the greenest of thumbs, have no fear, there is definitely a houseplant for you. Get on board with this trend and do it with style!

Greenery and plants are always something that can be easily incorporated into any design. Whether it be a large plant or a tabletop piece, it is always important to see some green. Flowers come and go, and while they are nice to keep fresh in your home on a regular basis, houseplants can be a more permanent décor in your home and need little attention.

Designer and houseplant aficionado Terri Moore, of Wildflowers, helped us out a little bit with this one. She has an incredible eye for functioning houseplants and has plenty of them for sale at her shop, including repotted succulents, snake plants, olive trees, and tons of other lovely greens to choose from.

Plants really liven up any space; from a desk to a dining table, they are the perfect design piece. Perfectly placed palms welcome any guest to your home — add a cute basket or pot filled with them to the entry way of your home and watch as guests smile upon arrival.

A friend, who was hosting a party years ago, had concerns because she had not purchased any flowers and ran out of time to get some. A quick and easy solution was to go right outside and cut leafy plants from her front yard and create 70 The Bend

arrangements out of them. Greenery allows you to craft an instant design element for your home or event with height and natural beauty!

Houseplants can be easily purchased at a nursery, specialty shop, or even be handpicked from the garden. Look around for greens that are easy to cut from trees or plants right outside your door. Never underestimate or overlook the beauty of a houseplant — bringing life into your home with air purity and style!

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

The best discoveries happen when you jump in with both feet.

Come explore the new Caribbean Journey Now Open.

Visit the jungles and coral reefs of the Yucatan Peninsula and come face to face with sharks, flamingos, a two-toed sloth, a toucan and more. Dive deeper and discover a bigger world at your Texas State Aquarium.

texasstateaquarium.org

Discover a bigger world. #DiscoverBigger

Caribbean Journey Now Open 17-TSA-0633 The Bend Coastal Life Magazine_July.indd 1

6/5/17 10:50 AM

RUBEN BONILLA INSURANCE AGENCY

HURRICANe SEASON IS IN FULL SWING! IS YOUR HOME PROTECTED?

361.881.1033 www.rubenbonillainsurance.com 2727 Morgan Ave, Ste. 300 Corpus Christi, TX 78405

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Special Promotion

Bart Braselton Bart Braselton is the Executive Vice President of Braselton Homes, the Coastal Bend’s oldest and largest Homebuilder and Neighborhood Developer. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Bart is the third generation of 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.

Room for Everyone A living room, especially one in an Open Concept floorplan, is the communal space. It’s where the family gathers to relax together, where friends gather to watch a game or enjoy cocktails and conversation, it’s where we “live.”

Creating a home that gives a family both the living space it needs to spend time together, as well as space for everyone to call their own, is a hallmark of a BraseltonBuilt home.

At Braselton Homes, we’ve worked hard to maximize the “living” space in our homes, so that your “living” can be done throughout the home, not just in that one room.

A few of our favorite Braselton Homes “living” spaces include: - The Courtyard Entryway. Outdoor Living spaces are important, and they don’t have to be limited to just the backyard. These specialized front porch areas provide both privacy and security for the entrance to your home, but also lend a sense of urban oasis and serenity, for you and your guests, as you enter your home. At my home, I added a fountain and garden to my entry courtyard, and it has dramatically improved the living experience for us. The fountain drowns out other noises of the day, and the reflection of the sun on the water, in the front rooms of the house, is wonderful. This space really adds tranquility to a home.

- The Upstairs “Bonus” Room, often called the “Texas Basement”. This “found” space, under the roof, in the attic, is a favorite of families with children, as the additional living space gives the kids a playroom for their toys and game gear. And, parents of teenagers especially find these rooms a sanity saver. The Bonus

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Room can also be a Media Room for family movie time, or can be Dad’s “man cave,” complete with a big screen TV, pool table and wet bar.

- The Craft Room, which can be connected to the Laundry area, is often tucked away, behind the garage. As our lives become hectic and stressful, this space can be a great place to find some tranquility, and can be used for crafting, as well as for gardening, reading, or the pursuit of other hobbies. These spaces can also be a guys Workshop, or a Storage Unit; instead of renting a space at an offsite facility, why not have one in your own back yard?

And, as the largest Community Developer in South Texas, we put as much thought into living in your neighborhood, as we do to living in your home. Homeowners need outdoor spaces in their homes to call their own, such as courtyards, backyards and covered patios, but they also need community outdoor spaces, so they can exercise, and interact with their neighbors. Braselton Communities incorporate parks, playgrounds, walking and biking trails, and play areas, so that everyone who lives in one of our communities can enjoy all that our beautiful region has to offer.

Braselton Homes has seven furnished model homes around Corpus Christi Bay, open daily, for you to tour.

Come see what “living” you may be missing, and how you could enjoy living in all the spaces of your New Braselton Home.

See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton braseltonhomes.com

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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.

IN 2016 WE APPROVED

P E E K E W EXAS SOUTH T

MOVING

$200 MILLION IN HOME LOANS AND HELPED

1,536 FAMILIES BUY A HOME

CALL, CLICK OR COME BY

1-800-622-3631 navyarmyccu.com

Drink. Eat. Live Raw 1756 Santa Fe St. Corpus Christi, Tx 361.442.2847 6330 Saratoga Blvd. Ste B Corpus Christi, Tx 361.692.8466

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All The Right Reasons to Contact Supreme:

Processing to Clear to Close in 25.37 Business Days

96.8% Customers - Satisfied or Extremely Satisfied 94.37% Loans Closed on Time Call Today for Mortgage Information

Jason Pitarra

Producing Branch Manager, NMLS #130984

Direct: 361.452.1222

Jason.Pitarra@SupremeLending.com 509 Lawrence, Suite 201 | Coprus Christi, TX 78401

www.JasonPitarra.SupremeLending.com The above information are based on the 2016 statistics for Supreme Lending.

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EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

74 The BendINC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org) 14801 Quorum Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254. 877-350-5225. © 2017. Intended for Texas consumers only, Texas - SML Mortgage Banker EVERETT FINANCIAL, Registration. Residential Mortgage Loan Originator.

Special Promotion

SUPREME LENDING JASON PITARRA, BRANCH MANAGER NMLS #130984

WHY WORK WITH THE TEAM AT SUPREME LENDING? You should look for a mortgage lender with a lot of experience. Unlike a broker, Supreme Lending is a direct lender, meaning we control the entire process from start to finish. We have built a level of trust with our investors that translates into our ability to underwrite, close and fund loans which the investors will buy. For the consumer, it means competitive interest rates, closing costs and faster turnaround time. Our loans are handled by our licensed mortgage originators who personalize the loan process and provide timely and informed communication with the customer. Here are five reasons to give Supreme Lending for all your mortgage loans:

1. CONSULTATIVE APPROACH: We pride ourselves on communicating with our customers throughout the entire home buying process by educating and keeping the customer informed on the status of their loan. We strive to get the best rate for our customer’s financial situation; however, the “best rate” is a very generic term and is different for everyone. We believe that taking a consultative approach with our clients can help us better structure a mortgage loan for our borrowers. We ask questions, such as, how much do you want your monthly payment to be? How much can you afford to bring to closing including all closing cost and down payment? And, how long do you anticipate to have the home loan? All of these factors will help us determine the best option for each situation and save customers money.

2.TECHNOLOGY ADVANTAGE: Supreme uses the most advanced technology available to close loans quickly at a low cost. By combining the use of the Internet along with advanced processing software and automated underwriting systems, we have taken the mystery out of approving and closing a home loan. This is why we can boast the application from clear to close in 25.37 business days and 94.37% of loans closed on time.

3.VARITY OF LOAN PRODUCTS: To start, we offer several down payment assistance programs if you are looking to buy a primary residence.

We offer the SETH program, which is made to assist low to moderate income Borrowers with down payment assistance, this program has helped so many families

realize their dream of owning a home. Supreme Lending did more SETH loans in the state of Texas than any other lender last year. We also offer VA, USDA, FHA, and Jumbo loan products. If you are looking to buy your first home, upgrade homes, a vacation home, or an investment property, we have a program that should help you.

4.CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: Our culture is one where the customer comes first. It is our goal to build customers for life by helping homebuyers realize their dreams. Our customer is going to be treated fairly and honestly and given a competitive rate.

We do everything in our power to close on time and get loan documents to the title company in advance of the close date. This is extremely important to the consumers and the referring realtor partners. We receive back 80% of customer surveys and are extremely proud get a rating of Satisfied or Extremely Satisfied by 96.8% of customers.

Jason Pitarra started in the mortgage in Houston, Texas back in 2003. He has held a license in over 20 states and completed over 100 hours in training and continued education. Jason has personally closed over 1,000 loans in his career. In 2008, Jason moved to Corpus Christi to open a new office. He now manages a highly experienced team of loan officers, processors, and licensed assistants all driven to put customers first. Supreme Lending’s main office is located in downtown Corpus Christi, with an additional satellite office on the South Side. Jason is married with a nine and thirteen-year-old. When he is not securing loans for his clients, he enjoys classic cars, cooking, hunting, water sports, and deep sea fishing.

Supreme Lending – Corpus Christi 361.452.1222 CorpusChristiMortgage.com EVERETT FINANCIAL, INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129 (nmlsconsumeraccess.org)

5. A PART OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY: The local Supreme lending office is one of the largest in the region, with seven highly experienced loan officers, two licensed assistants, two assistants, and four dedicated processors. Our local office has over 100 years of combined experienced to guide customers through the process.

Oftentimes, customers looking to the cheapest option will get what they pay for. When it comes to making the biggest financial decision of your lifetime, you need a team you can count on. We stay committed to the local community by getting involved with downtown art shows and helping support Habitat for Humanity and and Metro Ministries.

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EVERETT FINANCIAL, INC. D/B/A SUPREME LENDING NMLS ID #2129 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess. org) 14801 Quorum Dr., #300, Dallas, TX 75254.

877-350-5225. Copyright © 2017. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Information, rates, & programs are subject to change without prior notice and may not be available in all states. All products are subject to credit & property approval. Supreme Lending is not affiliated with any government agency. Intended for Texas consumers only, Texas - SML Mortgage Banker Registration - Residential Mortgage Loan Originator

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How long have you been an interior designer in the Coastal Bend?

How do you stay up to date with current trends?

I have been a designer in this area for over forty-seven years. I arrived in Corpus Christi on May 1, 1970 to intern under renowned designer, Norman Foster. He was regularly published in national design magazines at the time. I later worked for Jack Solovey, who purchased the business from Norman Foster. After thirteen years I decided to open my own business in Port Aransas, Texas where I was living at the time. I will have owned my business for thirty-four years in September, 2017.

I am a voracious reader of numerous trade publications. I cultivate relationships with suppliers of new products and have regular informative meetings in my Corpus Christi location for the designers on my team. I attend seminars throughout the country. I travel to markets in New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Atlanta and High Point, North Carolina on a regular basis. I have attended markets in Italy and France, as well. I am hoping to attend the Chicago market next year.

What is the difference between a designer and a decorator?

Interior design is not just decorating. It is changing the dimensions of space, customizing to precise requirements, and calling upon worldwide resources. Qualified interior designers have completed a four-year college course in design or architecture, including technical training, and have practiced for two years in a recognized establishment of interior design. They must have architectural training, plus a working knowledge of construction materials and techniques. They must stay abreast of current technological advancements in their field. They must be able to recruit the skills of artists, contractors, lighting designers, upholsterers and woodworkers - craftsmen of all kinds – to insure the creation of an environment suited to their clients. Many jobs do not require the many skills of an interior designer and a decorator with color sense and style can produce a beautiful result, however, I find that most interior designers are more concerned about the timelessness and longevity of the complete environment.

Susan Castor Collection www.castorcollection.com Design Center: 3636 S. Alameda St. Ste. H Corpus Christi, TX 78411 P: 361.851.8052 76 The Bend

Retail Showroom: 1908 State Hwy. 361 Port Aransas, TX 78373 P: 361.749.0524 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Why should someone choose to work with a professional rather than just go it alone?

A professional designer knows what is available and how it performs. They have the knowledge and training to help clients spend their money wisely and avoid costly mistakes. They can execute the many phases of design required to create the desired total environment. Today there are a vast number of choices and designers know what questions to ask regarding quality, construction and finishes.

How do you work with clients to understand their tastes?

I am a very good listener and my first hour of consultation is always at no charge so that I can determine exactly what the scope of the project will be. I ask a lot of questions in order to determine the function and budget prior to beginning any work. If clients have difficulty articulating what it is they want, I ask them to go to design magazines or online apps such as Houzz and send me photos of anything that moves them. Often the customer is not sure what they want, but after perusing several photos I can usually see a trend. Once I have a budget and a comfort level with what the client desires, I begin putting together the complete package for presentation as a whole.

Where are you located?

Our Design Showroom is in Taylor Center in Corpus Christi. Three of our design team office there, along with a receptionist, bookkeeper, design assistant, and part-time librarian who maintains our workroom resources. Our Retail Showroom is in Port Aransas, Texas on Highway 361 across from Plantation Suites.

The focus there is Coastal furniture and unique accessories, but we are able to use our resources to create any environment imaginable. Two designers are located in the Port Aransas showroom, as well as our inventory manager, salesperson, and a design facilitator.

We also have two full time delivery personnel with over forty years in the business.

Out & About JULY 2017

ARTS & CULTURE 78 CELEBRATION 82 DATE BOOK 84 SOCIAL HOUR 88

What’s Inside John Olvey is no stranger to surf culture. Along with the works of two other ocean-inspired artists, Olvey has curated a space where artwork centered around all things coastal are displayed with pride.

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Wet Paint Water Street Gallery will change your perspective of surf culture

By Jordan Regas Photos Jarred Schuetze

W

ith paint still wet on the canvas, John Olvey picks up his brush and puts some finishing touches on his newest piece. According to Olvey, Water Street Gallery is a working gallery. He is always painting. Whenever someone comes in they will see artists at work. It’s one of the many things that make the Water Street Gallery unique.

have been longtime supporters of the the Texas Surf Museum, so the concept of adding a nautical art gallery seemed like a natural addition to the Water Street Market.

“On any given day you can walk in and see an actual artist painting and get to meet and talk,” says Olvey.

“The idea for this gallery came from a desire to give back to the surf culture by a longtime personal association with the Texas Surf Museum. The history of our sport in Texas can been seen in the museum, but this gallery will show three distinct ways to display our travels, our experiences, and our shared love for all things saltwater,” says Olvey.

As the first-ever “pop-up” gallery of its kind in the Coastal Bend, the brick and mortar space features three nationally known artists: John Olvey, Wade Koniakowsky, and Jon Steele. Their work goes beyond the genre normally referred to as “surf art” to include thoughtful expressions of the ocean and beaches.

A pop-up gallery is like a pop-up exhibition – it can last a weekend, a week, or a month. The current exhibit will last all summer. There is not intention for the gallery to be a permeant brick and mortar shop, however, with the height of surf season approaching, the gallery looks to be around for a while with plenty of coastal art on display.

The concept for the gallery originated with Brad Lomax, owner of the Executive Surf Club and founder of the Texas Surf Museum. All three artists

A portion of all of all proceeds go to support the Texas Surf Museum. The artists don’t have a high gallery mark up, meaning lower prices on artwork.

Also, patrons can order custom art. Olvey says the gallery is décor driven; he is happy to reproduce a piece to better suit a particular look or style.

In addition to the art displayed during the pop-up, the gallery will also feature live painting workshops and demonstrations, gallery talks, and original art signings. Olvey is excited to be a part of the momentum in downtown and continue to shape the coastal vibe. He also believes the gallery will change the perspective of surf culture in the region.

“I think it helps to break the mold of what surf culture is. There are a lot of professionals in the surf culture," says Olvey. Later, he adds, “We are the creative advertising department of the surf culture.”

The gallery is located at 309 A N. Water Street, Corpus Christi, Texas. Visit the artists between 11am and 8pm Tuesday – Sunday through August 15th.

John Olvey

Wade Koniakowsky

Jon Steele

John is constantly inspired by his love of the waves, surfing, and his coastal surroundings.

John’s one-of-a-kind sculpted surf boards honor the sport and the board by his unique mix of board building techniques and sculpted images of the coast or iconic images of the surfing lifestyle. The board becomes the art rather than just being a canvas for the art.

Wade Koniakowsky, one of the nation’s leading ocean-inspired artists, began painting at the age of six and started surfing at twelve. By blending these two passions, he gained worldwide recognition for his oil paintings of the tropics. Wade’s work is currently showcased internationally as well as in 17 galleries from the East Coast to Hawaii.

Jon Steele, a Texas native, is the Lone Star State’s most published surf photographer.

Steele makes his living traveling the world, documenting surf and skateboarding culture, and capturing his perspective of the world’s oceans. His artistry and skill has developed over twenty years, thirteen countries, three oceans, and countless waves.

(www.johnolveyart.com)

78 The Bend

(www. koniakowsky.com)

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(www.jonsteelephoto.com)

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

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Available Exclusively at

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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㈀

Improving the Quality of Life in the Coastal Bend since 1981 For over 35 35 years, years,the theCoastal CoastalBend BendCommunity Community Foundation has their Foundation hashelped helpedarea arearesidents residentsachieve achieve their charitable goals.

During this time almost $97 million charitable goals. During this time over $93 millioninin non-profitt grants been non-profi grantsand andstudent studentscholarships scholarshipshave have been made. For For the the past hashas made. past eight sevenyears, years,the theFoundation Foundation organized the last organized the Coastal CoastalBend BendDay DayofofGiving Givingwhich which last year topped $2.13 million for charities providing needs year topped $1.9 million for charities providing needs of the the most most vulnerable of vulnerablein inthe theCoastal CoastalBend.

Bend.If you If you would like to join with us please call 361.882.9745. would like to join with us please call 361.882.9745. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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79

YOU CA N’T R E A LLY

K NOW A PLACE UNT I L YO U

ACTUALLY TASTE IT.

Every destination has a soul worth discovering. Experience the extraordinary cuisine at the famous Republic of Texas Bar & Grill. Dine with us to taste exquisite steaks, fresh seafood dishes and premium wine choices, all while taking in the panoramic views of the Corpus Christi Bay from the 20th floor. Let us make the most of your chance to wander.

OMNIH O TEL S . C O M / CO R P U S CHRIS T I 361-886-3515

REPUBLIC OF TEXAS BAR & GRILL • OMNI CORPUS CHRISTI HOTEL • CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 80 The Bend

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GO TO THEBENDMAG.COM SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTERS & STAY UP TO DATE ON THE LATEST EVENTS, TRENDS AND DISHES. POWERED BY:

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Out & About | Celebration

Buckaroos and BBQ Cotten’s 1st Birthday By: Jo Anne Howell

T

urning one is fun when you can celebrate with all your buckaroos and BBQ! When little Cotten Pollard tuned one in December, his mom wanted a good ‘ole fashioned BBQ paired with nothing but good times. Friends and family were invited to Vernon's to warm up with hot barbeque catered

by Cotten’s grandpa, Cecil Cotten, who is well known for his BBQ!

stories of family and fun.

Guests arrived on a cold December day to a hot spot filled with corn hole games, shuffleboard, and a juke box that didn't quit.

As Cotten opened his gifts, everyone gathered round to watch as he tore into each gift with pleasure! Big sister Lucy helped as toys appeared with every tear.

Pounds and pounds of BBQ, potato salad, beans, and all the fixin’s were served up along with sweet tea in custom cups. It was an all you can eat BBQ buffet that did not disappoint.

Nor did the black aproned all-star servers that manned the Cotten’s BBQ with lively chit chat and personal

Event Coordinating and Styling: Jo Anne Howell, Oh Goodie Designs + Events Graphics and Invitations: Harper Gray Designs for Oh

82 The Bend

Red bandana garlands and wool pom pom fringe trimmed the bar to set the scene for Cotten’s special day. Sweet treats placed on vintage ladders and cake stands cornered the scene as tiny hands couldn't get enough of the sweet stuff. Cupcakes, cookies, and Texas sheet cake served in gingham lined trays were the icing on the cake for this special birthday party.

As guests left, they were handed a S’mores kit to take home. Graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate bars were bagged up for favors.

It was a great first birthday celebrated with family and friends!

Goodie Designs Photography: Heidi Rae Photography Catering: Cecil Cotten

Cake and Cookies: Cakes to Dye For Location: Vernon’s, Corpus Christi, Texas

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Thank you to all The Bend Readers for voting us the

Local’s Favorite Medi-Spa! As a Thank You mention ‘The Bend’ anytime this summer and get 10% OFF a Laser Treatment! (specials excluded)

Laser Treatments Lasers are all the rage, but what is a Laser actually and how is it used to treat body issues? Lasers are devices that emit/give off amplified pulses of light that target the skin to help it regenerate. Dr. Vijay is excited to announce the introduction of our Newest Laser Platform. It is one of the most advanced technology Lasers on the market and is the gold standard in treating redness, leg veins, melasma, rosacea, sun damage, spider veins, acne, acne scarring, surgical scarring of all types and bruising. We also perform an extremely popular laser facial treatment using a non-ablative approach that leaves the skin tight, taught and looking refreshed while refining pores, lines and wrinkling. These procedures are comfortable, quick and have little to no downtime. Our Aesthetican Ashley Wendt is happy to provide free Laser consultations and quotes. Ashley & Dr. Vijay are both well trained and well versed in Lasers, as any provider should be.

It is very important to make sure your plastic 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 follow 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 nine years. Dr. Vijay is a military veteran, from the United States Air Force, and is an active member of the Corpus Christi Community. Our Licensed Aesthetican Ashley Wendt provides free skincare consultations and has been working in the Medical Aesthetics field for over a decade.

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele Where Beautiful Results & Experience Meet.

5826 ESPLANADE DRIVE, SUITE 101 CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS 78414 (361) 888-7417 CORPUSCHRISTIPLASTICS.COM

July

Mark Your Calendar

ARTS Comida Radio One Year Anniversary Party Aug. 5th

Celebrate with fellow lovers of local art, music, and food at Comida’s One Year Anniversary Art Show and Food Drive at the House of Rock! While listening to the music of performers such as The Blind Owls, The Mexican Blackbird, and Hiram, party guests can mingle with vendors like Moochila, Outer Space Allies, Project Bruja, and many more. Guests can also bring nonperishable food items to donate to the Corpus Christi Food Bank. The party starts at 5 p.m. and goes until midnight. A fun night with a great cause — what more could you ask for?

511 Starr St, (361) 882-7625, texashouseofrock.com

editor's pick FESTIVAL

Fourth of July Big Bang Celebration If you’re looking for a way to celebrate the Fourth of July, you have come to the right city.

Not only does Corpus Christi have some of the best views of fireworks on the Gulf Coast — there are very few sights more grand than the colorful lights reflecting off the sparkling waters of the Corpus Christi Bay — but it also boasts some pretty banging celebrations as well. This year is the 40th Anniversary for the Mayor’s Big Bang Fourth of July Celebration, one of the longest running traditions in Corpus Christi.

Kicking things off bright and early, the Corpus Christi Roadrunners Four for the 4th Run will

take place at 7am. After that, enjoy various activities such as food from the Food Truck Court and play games or listen to music at the Kids Zone. At 6 p.m. venture down to Shoreline Blvd to check out the Fourth of July Parade.

Finally, the Fourth of July wouldn’t be complete without fireworks! The show starts at 9:30 pm, but you may want to get their earlier for good seats somewhere along the four-mile-long viewing area!

Downtown Corpus Christi, reservations hotline: 1-877-300-6176, bigbangcorpuschristi.com

COMMUNITY Dollar After Dark before CC Ride-In Theater July 14th

Come spend a night under the stars on the lawn of the Corpus Christi Water Gardens! Pull up a lawn chair or a blanket and enjoy a free film by the bay. Although the movie begins at 9 p.m., arrive early to enjoy food from local vendors and drinks from the full bar. Also, if it’s up your alley, add some art and culture to your night by taking advantage of the Art Museum of South Texas Dollar Night admission for all Ride-In Theater guests before the movie begins!

1902 N Shoreline BLVD, (361) 825-3500, artmuseumofsouthtexas.org

84 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

FESTIVAL Corpus Christi Food Truck Summerfest July 22nd

Whoever said Austin has the best food trucks in Texas has clearly never been to the Coastal Bend.

Come on out to Water Edge Park and sample the creations of some of the area’s best gourmet food trucks! With over 50 food trucks to choose from, you can stroll along the Corpus Christi Bayfront, munching till your heart’s content, while enjoying the sights and sounds of local musicians, vendors, and exhibitors from all over South Texas. The festival lasts from noon to midnight, so you have more than enough time to try a little bit from each truck—we promise we won’t judge.

Water Edge Park, (361) 444-9566, visitcorpuschristitx.org

CORPUS CORPUSCHRISTI CHRISTI PAIN P.A. P.A. PAINMEDICINE, MEDICINE,P.A.

“Making Lives Better” “Making Lives Better” “Making Lives Better” “Making Lives Better”

Gabriel GabrielLopez, Lopez,M.D. M.D.

Board BoardCertified CertifiedininPain PainMedicine Medicine Fellowship Trained Fellowship TrainedininPain PainMedicine Medicine

Specializing Specializinginin Interventional InterventionalPain Pain

Rudy RudyGarza, Garza,M.D. M.D.

Are Pain?

Board Eligible Areyou yousuffering sufferingfrom fromChronic Chronic Pain?

Board EligibleininPain PainMedicine Medicine Dr. Dr.Lopez Lopezmay maybebeable abletotohelp. help.

Fellowship Trained Fellowship TrainedininPain PainMedicine Medicine

• Treatment options include injections reduce orall alleviate pain *that Treating types ofofand/or chronic • Treatment options include injections reduce or alleviate pain and/or *that Treating all types chronicpain pain a variety ofof pain relieving medications a variety pain relieving medications * *Most insurances accepted Most insurances accepted

* *Both Drs. are fluent inneck, Both Drs. areto fluent inSpanish Spanish • Treating allall types ofof chronic pain including, but not limited back, neck, • Treating types chronic pain including, but not limited to back, joint, muscle, leg, arm, hip, knee, pelvic, abdominal, headache, shingles joint, muscle, leg, arm, hip, knee, pelvic, abdominal, headache, shingles and diabetic pain. and diabetic pain.

• Accepting new patients byby self oror physician referral depending • Accepting new patients self physician referral depending 3825 Corpus Christi, TX 3825SPID SPID Corpus Christi, TX78415 78415 onon insurance. insurance.

(Located (Locatedbetween betweenKostoryz Kostoryz&&Weber) Weber)

• Accepting Medicare, Spohn, Humana, BCBS, Humana Gold, Cigna, • Accepting Medicare, Spohn, Humana, BCBS, Humana Gold, Cigna, 361.225.0089 | |BCBS “Se Habla Español” 361.225.0089| |www.ccpainmed.com www.ccpainmed.com “Se Habla Español” Tricare, Aetna, United Health Care, Blue Advantage, Workers Comp Tricare, Aetna, United Health Care, BCBS Blue Advantage, Workers Comp

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insurance and Christus Health Silver. insurance and Christus Health Silver.

Specializing inin Interventional Pain Trained inin Pain Medicine Specializing Interventional Pain | | Fellowship Fellowship Trained Pain Medicine Board Certified inin Pain Medicine byby the Board Certified Pain Medicine the American Board ofof Anesthesiology American Board Anesthesiology

Gabriel GabrielLopez, Lopez,M.D. M.D. Board Certified inin Pain Medicine Board Certified Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

3825 3825SPID SPIDCorpus CorpusChristi, Christi,TxTx78415 78415 (Located between Kostoryz && Weber) (Located between Kostoryz Weber)

361.225.0089 www.ccpainmed.com• •“Se 361.225.0089• •www.ccpainmed.com “SeHabla HablaEspañol” Español”

Located in Portland’s Exclusive Northshore Community...

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85

FESTIVAL Corpus Christi Wedding Fair July 16

For both blushing brides and ring-by-springers alike: South Texas’ largest bridal show is returning to the American Bank Center! From noon to 5 p.m., brides (and grooms!) can check out fashion shows, food and cake samplings, photographers, venues, DJ's, flowers, and more. Featuring Corpus Christi’s top wedding professionals, this is not an event you want to miss if you're planning the nuptials of your dreams!

1901 N Shoreline Blvd, (888) 828-314, weddingfairevents.com

ARTS Aurora Arts Theatre Presents Fiddler on the Roof June 28th to September 9th

Set in the little village of Anatevka, this is the story of Tevye, a poor milkman, and his five daughters, all of whom are Jews living in Czarist Russia. The classic musical focuses on the struggle of a father trying to instill in his children traditional values in the face of ever changing social mores. An educational and entertaining performance that focuses on still-relevant topics such as racism, classism, and familial relationships, this local production is sure to be an insightful evening for the whole family.

5635 B Everhart Rd, (361) 851-9700, http://www.auroraartstheatre.com

BENEFIT 28th Annual Pepsi Bay Ball Ballyhoop 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament July 29th & 30th

ARTS

ISO: Street Photography Showcase Sept. 1st

There’s nothing quite like seeing your city through someone else’s eyes. At the ISO: Street Photography Showcase, that’s exactly what you will get to do! The showcase features the work of local photographers in the unique style of street photography: a type of photography depicting scenes that are completely unstaged, unposed, and un-manipulated. The showcase will allow guests to take a unique look at life through the photographer’s lens. Take an evening and enjoy the work of local photographers to get a better sense of the style and culture of our city. The showcase begins at 5 p.m. and concludes at 10 p.m., so come out to the K Space Art Studios and enjoy the work of artists like Omar Arellano, David Galvan, Thomas Garcia, Frank Ipkiss, and many more!

415 Starr St, (361) 887-6834, evensi.us/iso-street-photography-showcase-k-space-contemporary

86 The Bend

FESTIVAL CC Street Wave 2017 July 14th — 16th

Attention muralists: this one’s for you! The CC Street Wave is the first ever city-wide mural art gathering in the Texas Coastal Bend, tailored for artists around the state who seek canvases a tad larger than what’s customary. This unique event is part of an ongoing project by the Marina Arts District to showcase the artistic side of Corpus Christi.

The intention is to continue growing a culture of creativity for artists in the Coastal Bend, and show new artists what this area has to offer. On the 15th, the official CC Street Wave afterparty kicks off at The Exchange, which features food and drink specials in a gallery setting, and exclusive meet and greets with the artists. Come out for an uncommon festival experience with some of the newest and brightest artists in the Coastal Bend!

224 N Mesquite St, (361) 414-9788, artist involvement email: ccstreetwave@gmail.com

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

You don’t have to be Michael Jordan to take part in this annual basketball tournament! The Annual Pepsi Bay Ball Ballyhoop Tournament has helped give year-round sports training and competition for more than 2,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities in the Coastal Bend and South Texas area for years. The two-day tournament will take place at Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi in the Dugan Wellness Center and Island Hall Gym. Get your teams together and get registered before the deadline on July 18th!

6300 Ocean Dr, (512) 835-9873, sotx.org

yeti | southern tide | maui jim | patagonia | rowdy gentleman

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Fat Reduction Without Surgery Call Today for a FREE CONSULTATION 361-452-2637

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87

Out & About | Social Hour

Downtown Mural Mixer

1.

2.

Photos by: Rachel Benavides

1.Adrianne & Casey Lain.

2.Aaron Lopez, Jake Luna, Monica Marie Garcia, Mayra Zamora, Kimberly Rios, Perry, BB, Vic Daniels

3.Barbie Baker, Jeremy Flores

4.Terry Sweeney, Alan Albin, Kresten and Kimberly Cook

5.Jesse Gomez, Charlie Harper, MC Studio works.

6.Debbie Noble, Susan Vaughn, Gloria Gooding, Jeannine Leal, Stefanie Gasca.

7.Melody Rangel, Frankie Martinez

3.

5.

7.

88 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

4.

6.

orthopedics

AT

DOCTORS REGIONAL CERTIFIED EXCELLENCE

With only 2.6% of the hospitals nationwide certified

by The Joint Commission for Total Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery, you can be confident in receiving a higher standard of care at Doctors Regional.

Disease-Specific Care Certification for Total Knee and Hip Replacement Surgery

www.ccmedicalcenter.com

Striving for your

Best Smile Family | Restorative | Cosmetic The experience you can trust!

5756 S. Staples Ste. I, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 | 361.991.7791

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89

Out & About | Social Hour

1.

2.

artRageous Photos by: Rachel Benavides

3.

1. Mary Fischer, Frank Flores, Wayne Eden & Audrey Eden 2. Sara & Cecile Morgan 3. Candace Land & Gary Lopez 4. Jenna & Dr. Jason Barnes 5. Dean & Audrey Sartoris, Lesley Lomax, Kristen & Robby Sterett & Madeline Schmidt,

90 The Bend

5.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

4.

CONSERVATIVE CARE EEXPERT X P E RT CO N S E RVAT I V E CA R E OOF F TTHE H E SSPINE PINE

Why physical therapy?

• Reduce use of opioids • Avoid surgery • Avoid the higher cost associated with the "wait and see" approach, and worse long term outcomes • Accurately localize where the pain is coming from with a thorough evaluation of the lumbar, sacroiliac, and hip At CCPT we treat all orthopedic injuries and post operative repairs with the most effective techniques and Aquatic Physical Therapy is also available.

Lee Glover Glover Lee PT, OCS, OCS, COMT PT, COMT

Graduated Nebraska Graduatedfrom fromUniversity UniversityofNebraska Worked in South Texas since 1992 Worked in South Texas since 1992

Over Over25 25years yearsexperience experience

361-994-5251 361-994-5257 Orthopedic Certified Specialist Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

5959 S. Staples Ste. 105 Corpus Christi, TX 78413

www.corpuschristipt.com

thebendmag.com

91

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Roxanne Robertson, DDS, MS Colin Mihalik, DDS, MS Stephan Ramsay, DDS, MS

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Revision #:

Scale:

Date: 3/24/2015

1" = 10'[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Cuisine JULY 2017

FARM TO TABLE 94 DINING GUIDE 99 THE DRINK 100 THE DISH 102

What’s Inside If you are going to do steak and potatoes, do it right! This take on a homestyle cooked meal is filled with nothing but fresh ingredients and powerful flavors that are sure to leave you asking for seconds.

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93

Cuisine | Farm to Table

Homestyle Cooking with the Freshest Ingredients Pepper-Crusted Filet of Beef Tenderloin with Horseradish Sauce, Skillet-Fried Potatoes, String Beans, and Chevre-Stuffed Squash Blossoms By: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Benavides

A

s farmers, we rarely enjoy the choicest cuts of meat at our table. Farmers keep the least expensive cuts for themselves - that is how to stay in business. But sometimes, we must sample the steaks. Call it a quality check or a plain old morale booster!

Here is what the celebrity chefs don’t want you to know: the ingredients are more important than the recipes. Mediocre ingredients make mediocre meals, and the best recipes in the world can’t save them. To prepare extraordinary meals, you must begin with extraordinary ingredients.

Beef tenderloin is succulent, lean, and flavorful, and only needs a little help to become magic on the plate. Insist upon

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grass-fed beef for your steaks. You can read literature all day long about the health benefits of grass-fed versus corn-fed beef, but the proof is in the flavor. Taste will convince you!

We cut our tenderloins into fillets to create more surface area on each steak for the pepper rub. Sear your filets on the stovetop for a nice crust. The filets will be ready in minutes; crispy on the outside, rare and red in the center.

This homemade horseradish sauce gives a spicy zing to the steak. The creaminess of the sauce tames the peppery rub while adding layers of beautiful flavor to the dish.

Now, when you are eating steak, you of course need potatoes

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to go along with it. These thinly-cut fried potatoes are crispy with soft centers—the best of both worlds really. Generous dollops of sour cream and local goat cheese feta punch up the flavor with a finish of chives and parsley. These are complex and wonderful flavors for such a simple dish.

The string bean recipe could not be simpler: basically, string beans and heat. To make this work, you must use freshly-picked string beans, picked that very day from your garden or a local farm.

Squash blossoms can be difficult to find—they must be freshly-picked and painstakingly cared for by the farmer. Stuff your squash blossoms with chevre from Thompson’s Dairy Farm, a great product from a local family farm. Gently fry the blossoms to a golden brown. The flavor of the squash flower fried with chevre is so unique, so unusual, there is no other taste like it.

These squash blossoms may be one of the best things you ever eat.

You can find all these ingredients in the Four String Farm Share, or shop diligently at the local farmers’ markets, or, best of all, grow these ingredients in your own garden!

If you are going to have steak and potatoes, do it right. Begin with the best ingredients because you, and your meal, are worth it.

Filet of Beef Tenderloin with Horseradish Sauce Serves: 6 Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Ingredients: 6 Beef Tenderloin Fillets, about 1/3 to ½ lb each, trimmed (alternately, a 2-3 lb tenderloin) 1/3 cup freshly ground black pepper 1 tsp kosher salt ¾ tsp garlic powder ¾ tsp paprika ¾ tsp dried rosemary ¾ tsp dried thyme 2 tbsp grapeseed or peanut oil Garlic Horseradish Sauce 2 cups heavy whipping cream 1 head garlic ¼ cup horseradish

Directions: Place a large cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Let fillets come to room temperature and pat dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, stir together dry ingredients. Brush each fillet with oil and rub in spice mixture until fillets are covered. Add fillets to preheated pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side (until internal temperature reaches 120°F-125°F for rare or 130°F-135°F for medium rare). Remove fillets to a plate and let rest for 15-30 minutes.

For Horseradish Garlic Sauce: Place cream in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

Cut off root end of head of garlic. Place cut side down in cream and let cook for about 10 minutes, to allow skins to loosen. Remove garlic from cream. Starting from the top of your garlic head, apply pressure with the flat side of your butcher knife to free cloves from their skins. Rotate garlic head and repeat until all cloves have been loosened and are free of their skins. Add garlic back to pan. Let cook an additional 15-20 minutes, until cream is reduced by about half, stirring occasionally.

Add the remaining ingredients and using your whisk or spoon, break apart any lingering bits of garlic. Serve horseradish sauce spooned over tenderloin fillet.

1 tsp Dijon mustard ¾ tsp salt 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

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Skillet-Fried Potatoes Serves 6 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 35 minutes Ingredients: 1 lb bacon 2 lb russet potatoes (about 6-8 potatoes), cut into slices about 1/8” thick 4 oz feta (recommend: Goat Feta from Thompson Farm)

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¼ cup sour cream ½ cup fresh parsley, chopped

361.392.4OOO

¼ cup chives, chopped Directions: Cook bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 7 minutes on each side). Transfer bacon to lined plate and set aside, reserving bacon drippings in pan.

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Reduce heat to medium-low and arrange potato slices in a single layer in the pan. Cook potatoes about 5 minutes, or until center is beginning to appear translucent and edges are golden. Flip potato slices over and repeat for opposite side.

Remove potatoes from heat and place on a lined plate. Repeat in batches until all slices have been cooked. Salt liberally with kosher salt. Top with dollops of sour cream, crumbled feta, chopped bacon, parsley and chives.

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Sautéed Green Beans Serves 4 Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 5 minutes Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil 12 oz Fresh green beans, trimmed and rinsed ½ medium onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced Salt and pepper, to taste Directions: Place oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.

Add green beans and onions to hot oil and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook an additional minute until fragrant and beans are crisp-tender. Season with salt and pepper.

Chevre-Stuffed Squash Blossoms Serves 4-6 Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 6 minutes Ingredients: 3 cups grapeseed oil 1 cup chevre (recommend Thompson’s Dairy Farm Chev-Ray) 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped 2 tbsp oregano, chopped ¼ tsp red pepper flakes 12 large squash blossoms ½ cup all-purpose flour ½ cup, plus 2 tbsp sparkling water ½ tsp kosher salt 1 tbsp parmigiana reggiano, shredded Directions: Place oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.

In a small bowl, combine chevre, herbs, and pepper flakes. Carefully open and fill each squash blossom with a tbsp of the chevre mixture.

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| 361.882.8885

In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, and sparkling water to form a batter. Twist the end of each filled squash blossom and holding on to the stem, immerse them into the batter.

Add them to the hot oil, using caution not to crowd the pan. Cook for about a minute, and then carefully turn your blossoms and cook an additional minute on the opposite side. Transfer blossoms to a lined plate and sprinkle parmesan on top prior to serving.

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1122 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78416 361.855.4095 bishoprvcenter.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend] 98 The Bend

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 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

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 The Exchange $$ From the floor to the ceiling, the walls, to your mind, and even right down to your palate, visiting The Exchange brings a sense of “home” to a downtown experience. 224 N. Mesquite St, (361) 414-9788, theexchangecc.com

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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) 853-7303, 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

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

Matcha Konomi, a food truck known around the local community for serving healthy and delicious toasts, smoothies, bowls, and their authentic Matcha-based drinks, is making summer in the Coastal Bend even tastier with their Unicorn Drink.

The Healthy Unicorn Matcha Konomi is making summer in the Coastal Bend even tastier with their Unicorn Drink.

By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Benavides

M

atcha Konomi is no stranger to unique drinks. Before the quirky drink craze even came about, they were already experimenting with colors and taste with their Strawberry Banana topped with Matcha Kale drink, another local favorite together with their Matcha lattes.

BRING THIS AD IN TO RECEIVE 15% OFF YOUR ORDER!

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Their newest drink, inspired by the latest unicorn trend, is their own take on the Unicorn Drink fad, giving it a healthier and more natural twist.

Much like everything they serve, the drink is made with fresh ingredients with absolutely no additives. Its ingredients include coconut cream, blueberries, strawberries, bananas, and mangoes topped with regular light whipped cream with sprinkles. These

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are then blended separately and then layered on top of each other, starting with the blue/blackberry and coconut cream for the base, to create the perfect distribution of fruity and naturally sweet flavors. If you have a sweet tooth and need a little more, you can also opt to order it with honey.

In a world of pretty drinks and aesthetic, Matcha Konomi proves that it doesn’t all have to be about the look – you can be healthy, eat and drink deliciousness, and still keep your Instagram feed on point.

3512 S Staples St. 78411 Corpus Christi, Texas (361) 903-0688

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 Clove $$ 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, thepostlamarpark.com Town & Country Café $ This down-to-earth diner serves the best in homestyle American comfort food for breakfast and lunch. 4228 S Alameda St, (361) 992-0360, Facebook.com/town-country-cafe

Asian 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 facebook.com/akasushidowntowncc

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 HDTVs, 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

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 St, (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 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

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

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Cuisine | The Dish

Did you know?

WHEN MINUTES Pho-nomenal!

COUNT W E A RE T H ER E .

361.265.0509 B USIN ESS & RANC H P L AN S AVAIL ABL E

VIE W O U R L ATE S T EVEN T S AT WWW.HALO F LI GHT. O R G

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Pho has more health benefits than you’d think! When you visit Pho Life, check out the framed images on the wall and how each ingredient benefits your health.

In an effort to introduce the people of the Coastal Bend to authentic Vietnamese food, Zoey Nguyen started her journey in 2008.

By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Benavides

T

hrough struggles that forced her to give up two stores, Nguyen now has two successful Vietnamese restaurants open in Corpus Christi – one that just recently opened, much to the delight of many, on the south side of city.

Entering Pho Life felt a lot like coming home to your parents’ house after being away. The smiling faces, the comfortable ambience, and the friendly atmosphere all make up the homey feeling of the restaurant. Nguyen is the very definition of a hands-on owner, you see her through the open kitchen making the food as soon as you enter, but at the same time, she makes time to go over to the customers and ask them how they are. She knew every person eating at Pho Life that day by name, and they made sure to give her a hug good bye before they left.

She shares that this is the very reason she opened Pho Life, which is a condensed version of her other restaurant, Pho Saigon. She wanted to go back to her early days where she was free to get to know her customers, and make her restaurant feel like a home.

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Pho Life has almost everything that Pho Saigon serves, apart from some of the rice bowls. Every dish, including the pho, is just as good at this location. Their pho is delicious, healthy, and authentic to the bone. Much like how they do it in Vietnam, the broth takes 10-12 hours to make and has about 20+ ingredients including cinnamon, ginger, garlic, daikon radish, and more. All the ingredients make up a unique burst of flavors so rich you’d be craving it again after your first bowl. It’s served with rice noodles and meat of your choice, with a side of bean sprouts and cilantro.

Nguyen started her journey purely for the sake of sharing authentic pho to the Coastal Bend. Almost ten years later, absolutely nothing has changed. – and that makes all the difference.

5865 Weber rd.

78413 Corpus Christi, Texas (361) 334-1345

Cuisine | Dining Guide Hula Peach Fruit Hub & Cafe $ This locally owned tropical themed café, sources the finest produce and is committed to quality and freshness. 3823 S Staples, (361) 334-3773, Facebook.com/hulapeach 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 $$$ Warm and cozy mom and pop Italian experience will make you feel like family. Entrées are delicious Italian culture on a plate. 128 N Mesquite St, (361) 8833773, Facebook.com/mamma-mias Mesquite St. Pizza and Pasta Co. $$ 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

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 $$$ Sit indoors, sit outdoors, see the Gulf Coast from any seat in the house while diving into top-quality coastal cuisine, live music and the best views around. 258 Snapdragon, (361) 749-4653, Blackmarlinbarandgrill. com Doc’s Seafood and Steaks $$ 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 Glow $$ From a renovated boathouse, they offer simply-cooked bistro fare using the best local seafood and produce.

Bright, relaxed atmosphere with white-washed ship lap wood walls and a full bar. 1815 Broadway St, (361) 727-2644, Glowrockport.com

Harrison’s Landing $$

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

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Cuisine | Dining Guide 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

Hours

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

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

Lance's Black Sheep Bistro $$ Catering Available 100 N Shoreline Corpus Christi, TX 78401 citrussssbistro@yahoo.com www.citrusbaybistro.com 361-882-2047

A unique, trendy atmosphere that transcends age and style with a menu full of foods rich, colorful, and full of flavor. 15201 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-4819, Blacksheepbistro.net

Latitude 28˚02’ $$$

Contemporary dining experience specializing in tasty fresh, local seafood. Eye-catching walls that serve as a gallery space, holding colorful works by local artists.

105 N Austin St, (361) 727-9009, Latituderockport.com

Liberty Hall $$ Herbs and vegetables grown on site, your dining experience will be unforgettable!

106 E. Cotter, (361) 749-4888 facebook.com/LibertyHallPortA

Jewelry

by Irma Caballero 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 $$$ Casual coastal elegance with a family-friendly setting.

The menu boasts a remarkable gourmet twist to your favorite fare, and a full bar that goes beyond just ordinary. 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 famous visitors. 200 E Cotter Ave, (361)749-1540, Rooseveltsatthetarponinn.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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 $$ A unique dining experience, you’ll find the very best in seafood, steak, Italian dishes, pizza, soups, and desserts all made from scratch. 901 S Alister St, (361) 749-5666, seafoodandspaghettiworks.com Shells $$ 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 $$ This international bistro/nouveau American fine-quality cuisine is prepared daily using many ingredients from the Corpus Christi Farmers' Market creating a constantly eclectic seasonal menu, where guests can choose to sit indoor and outdoor. 337 N Alister St, (361) 749-9277, Facebook/The-Phoenix-Restaurant-and-Bar Trout Street Bar & Grill $$$ Cajun-inspired seafood in an airy environment 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

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

MASSAGE

CENTER

LIVE WELL, PRACTICE CARE, BE AT PEACE

4646 CORONA DR. STE.172 • 361.947.0958 • WWW.CCMASSAGECENTER.COM

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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History | Looking Back

The Fulton Mansion property has lived many lives, from private home to RV park to public museum.

The state of Texas bought the neglected property in 1976 and underwent its first major restoration before opening as a museum in 1983.

Living Among Windswept Oaks Fulton Mansion has stood the test of time and still welcomes visitors, just as it did as a family home in the 1870s.

By: Jillian Becquet Photo: Photo courtesy of the John Fred’k ‘Doc’ McGregor Collection at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History

W

hile many in the Coastal Bend were living a true frontier life in the late 1800s, George Fulton was building his businesses so he could live among modern amenities. While he found fortune in popular Texas industries, including shipping and ranching, his choice of family home was anything but ordinary. The Fultons called their home Oakhurst, as it was built in a cove of windswept live oaks alongside Aransas Bay. After three years of construction, the family moved in 1877.

Oakhurst’s French, Second Empire architecture makes it one of the earliest of the style in Texas, and one of the best examples still standing. Fulton was not only a stellar businessman, but also a patent-holding inventor. His innovation is evident in his decision

106 The Bend

to install state-of-the-art amenities in his home, including central heating, gas lighting, and indoor plumbing—a rarity in South Texas in the 1870s.

The home has changed hands just a couple of times during its life—the last when it became property of the state of Texas. Now a Texas Historical Commission site, we know it today as the Fulton Mansion. Its exquisite architecture landed it a place on the National Register of Historic Places, and soon the grounds and home opened to the public for viewing. A second restoration in 2013 - 2015 restored the house to its former glory. When we walk in Harriet and George Fulton’s footsteps today, it’s not hard to imagine the sense of marvel they must have felt stepping foot into this majestic place for the first time.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com

107