February 2020 Issue

WEICHERT WORKS …..SERVING ALL OF THE COASTAL BEND

FEBRUARY 2020 | THE FOODIE ISSUE

THE

| WHAT’S ONLINE | GIVING BACK | PERSON OF INTEREST

CORRECTIONS: On pg. 56 of the “Order on the Court” story (Dec 2019 Issue) we did not mention the original founder of the Junior Programs as being Jihad Benbarka, the Director of Junior Development at the Corpus Christi Athletic Club. We apologize!

Where would you take an out of town guest to eat and why?

There are so many! But if I had to choose, I would say Andy's Kitchen for breakfast because those muffins are incredible and Hester's for lunch because everything there is so tasty.

Steer Burger! Simple, because they have the best burgers and the best service.

I would take them out to eat at Hanaya Poke, both the SPID and Southside locations are great, because I am currently obsessed with their kale noodles and it can cure your seafood cravings in a healthy way.

I’d totally go with Paradise Key in Rockport. Besides being a go-to tourist spot on a dockside, everybody there knows each other and is involved in the community.

SUBMISSIONS: kylie@thebendmag.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS: thebendmag.com

PRESIDENT: Jordan Regas

VICE PRESIDENT & EVENTS DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas

PUBLISHER: Chris Knapick

ART DIRECTOR: Jarred Schuetze

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Kylie Cooper

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Gloria Stauber

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Benavides

COPY EDITOR: Steve Gill

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Jason Page

Lillian Reitz

Aaron Garcia

SENIOR WRITERS: Emma Comery

Kirby Tello

DESIGN INTERN: Sierra Lutz

CONTRIBUTORS:

Justin & Kayla Butts

Jillian Becquet

JoAnne Howell

Jacqueline Gonzalez

Julieta Hernandez

Jessie Monsivais

Alexis Harborth

Steven Harrison

Katy Jones-Gulsby

THE BEND OFFICE

309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.792.3606

On the Cover:

It depends; if we want a cool sunset while enjoying fried shrimp and fish the go-to for us is Snoopy’s. If we are going to enjoy a great breakfast, Hester’s at Lamar Park and dine outside. If they are hungry for sushi our go-to place is Yoshi on the Southside.

If I could, I’d give my guests the full tour. 8TE for breakfast (because their buckwheat pancakes are the bomb), swing over to BKK for lunch, and finish up the day on the island at Rock N Roll sushi. Creative, fresh-made comfort food is a big theme in Corpus dining, and those 3 restaurants really set the bar high. Oh, and gelato at A La Mode for dessert.

I’d have to say Z Counter. It’s a solid Asian fusion spot that never disappoints whether I’m eating there or on the go!

ADVERTISING: gloria@thebendmag.com

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

The Coastal Bend is bursting at the seams with delicious flavors, innovative cuisine, and mouthwatering plates. Between new spots opening up and classic hometown favorites, we put together a list of restaurants we think you should eat at right now. With the help of our Foodie Panel, we landed on 25 places we just can’t get enough of. The dish seen on the cover is a new poke dish from Latitude 28˚02’.

(Photographed by: Lillian Reitz)

OF THE ART SKIN TIGHTENING

STATE

FOOD for THOUGHT

Believe it or not, the first time I ever tried fish was about two years ago. I know what you’re thinking: “How could you possibly have been born and raised in the Coastal Bend and not have eaten a bit of seafood your whole life?” My mother never cooked up fish for dinner, and we never really went out to eat at a seafood restaurant. So, when tasked with a feature on chefs in 2017 and in the beaming presence of Karey Swartwout over at GLOW, I knew I couldn’t refuse the dish she served me. There, on a sunny Thursday afternoon, I ate my very first bite of fish in the form of black drum with lemon caper brown butter served on an heirloom cherry tomato basil salad. And yes, I loved every bit of it.

The lessons learned that day were that a meal prepared with thought, intention, and the right ingredients is sure to please any palate, and that being pushed outside your comfort zone (especially when it comes to your taste buds) can result in a sensational experience you’d otherwise never have. That notion of well-prepared and intentional meals is at the core of our cover feature, “Where to Eat Now.” Starting on page 32, you’ll find a list of restaurants, curated by our Foodie Panel and our Editorial Team, that we strongly think you should be eating at – right now.

I’d like to extend a huge thank you to our panel – Gerald Flores, Aislynn Campbell, and Vianney Rodriguez – for their recommendations, as well as to our Senior Writer, Emma Comery, for eating at all (yes, all) 25 restaurants you see listed in the feature.

With this issue, we hope to encourage each of you to break out of your comfort zone and possibly try a new restaurant where you’ve never even thought about grabbing a bite, or remind you of an old favorite you haven’t been to in years, and also spotlight some of the local food industry’s all-stars who are pushing boundaries in the form of incredible cuisine.

On the topic of breaking boundaries, you’ll also find the remarkable story of Del Mar College being among the first in the nation to succeed in providing integrated education. On page 48, you’ll read about how Dr. Henry Boyd Hall and the local YWCA chapter fought to get rid of outdated laws right here in our very community, and how local efforts and the unabashed and determined fight to break down the barriers set before them allowed the Coastal Bend to be a part of Civil Rights history in such a meaningful way.

With that in mind, we challenge you to step outside your comfort zone after you’ve read through this issue. Whether that be eating fish for the first time because The Bend Magazine suggested a few places, or fighting for justice in any form or fashion in your community, be bold and take risks – you never know just where it might lead you.

– KYLIE COOPER, Editorial Director kylie@thebendmag.com

THREE TAKEAWAYS:

1. The home featured in this month’s Open House section was originally built by local architect Walter Wisznia. Wisznia was among the most notable 20th-century modern architects and was behind numerous iconic Coastal Bend buildings before passing in 2004. Pg. 62

2. Local musician Lakeita Valon debuted her first solo project this year, featuring a moody mix of electric and soulful sounds. Her album, BPM: Verano, is available on any streaming platform now. Pg. 74

3. There is a specific license one must hold in order to sell official Frida Kahlo merchandise, and the new pop-up shop, The Frida Store, has it! There you will find an assortment of Frida-inspired items from all over the world. Pg 76

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

we are proud to be home for the best of south texas

winners of the 2019 “the local’s list” from THE BEND magazine

the best craft cocktail | THE POST

the best new restaurant | BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR

the best brunch | HESTER’S CAFE

the best date night | BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR

the best health food | HESTER’S CAFE

the best sandwich | HESTER’S CAFE

the best asian cuisine | BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR

the best catering | HESTER’S CAFE

the best girls night out | THE POST the best tea | HESTER’S CAFE

the best children’s clothing | FOUR CHICKS IN THE PARK the best bakery | HESTER’S CAFE

ALEXIS HUNTER INTERIORS

ANN TAYLOR LOFT

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR

CHICO’S

FOUR CHICKS IN THE PARK FRANCISCO’S SALON

GOLDSMITH JEWELERS

GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

HANLEY • WOOD

HESTER’S CAFE

JULIAN GOLD

PILAR FASHION & FOLK ART

TALBOTS

THE POST

WEEKLY DROP NEWSLETTER

YOLA COCINA MEXICANA (open fall 2019)

AROUND THE BEND

STYLE 18 TRENDING 21 WHAT’S ONLINE 22 GIVING BACK 24 5 BEST 27 PERSON OF INTEREST 30

What’s Inside

Whether it comes in the form of a pair of pants, a jacket, a dress, or anything in between, denim is a wardrobe essential. Finding a perfect denim fit for you is like finding a soulmate – not always easy, but so worth the wait.

DENIM ON DENIM

the essentials - part two

Denim has had a moment in fashion during every generation. Few things are as classic and versatile. You can wear it a million different ways for almost any occasion: i.e., Britney and Justin's iconic alldenim statement at the 2001 American Music Awards. So, whether it's in the form of jeans, a dress, or a jacket, denim is an essential staple that fits anyone's style.

BY: JARRED SCHUETZE PHOTOS BY: AARON GARCIA

picnic PERFECT

A picnic done well can be pure bliss. No-one enjoys a lame, half-baked, or poorly catered one. The key to picnic perfection is simple: be well prepared. So, to get you inspired, we’ve picked out a few brilliant items that will guarantee a smooth and enjoyable outdoor experience with friends and family.

BY: JARRED SCHUETZE

1. JBL Clip 3 Portable Speaker Target $69.99 2. Large Vintage Bread Board Wildflowers $48 3. Corkcicle Air Wine Aerator & Cooler Bleu Frog Mercantile $19.95 4. Famille Bougrier Chenin Blanc Vouvray Total Wine & More $14.99 5. Fresh Croissants Bien Mérité $1-$5 6. Free People In Full Bloom Midi Dress Macys $148 7. Mesh Reusable Tote Moonlight Woven $18 8. Seasonal Produce Downtown Farmers Market Prices Vary 9. Vintage Picnic Basket Red Crow Antiques Prices Vary 10. Assorted Imported Cheeses Italian Cowboy Prices Vary

YOUR BEST SHOT

We loved seeing how each of you eat locally! The picks below are just a few of our favorites. Thank you all for sharing your photos with us and displaying how you live your best Bend life.

The March issue’s photo contest theme is Colorful Walls!

Do you have gorgeous paint colors in your home? Is there a colorful wall somewhere in town you always take a photo in front of? Snap a photo of a colorful wall somewhere in the Coastal Bend, tag us (@thebendmag) and include the hashtag #bestbendlife to be considered!

ON VIEW: JANUARY 25  APRIL 19, 2020

FACE

Contemporary Ceramic Sculpture

Sergei Isupov (Russian, born 1963), Risen (detail), 2016, stoneware, slip, and glaze, on loan from the artist and Ferrin Contemporary, North Adams, Massachusetts

BRAINtoBRAIN

IT’S YOUR LIFE FOUNDATION AND ITS NEWEST BRANCH AIM TO EDUCATE STUDENTS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF A

HEALTHY BRAIN

BY: JESSIE MONSIVAIS PHOTO BY: LILLIAN REITZ

It’s Your Life Foundation is a local non-profit organization dedicated to service and educating the community to make better life choices. Collaborating with regional school districts, local governments, and community partners, It’s Your Life Foundation works to motivate, create, and sustain healthy habits in the community. Their main programs – Ante Tobacco, KNIGHTS (Keep Nurturing and Inspiring Good Habits in Teen Sleep), and iConquer – empower students to make healthy choices while mobilizing leadership among high-school students.

Sneha and Pranai Reddy are the young siblings behind the foundation's newest branch, iConquer: Brain Health. Sneha, a senior at IWA, and her brother Pranai, a junior at IWA, co-founded iConquer Brain Health to promote awareness of the link between nutrition in children, their learning behavior, and overall brain health.

Geared toward elementary students, iConquer: Brain Health, “Wonderland of Fantasy” is an animated film that follows a group of friends who find a depressed genie in a lamp and travel inside to the Wonderland of Fantasy to help him.

“My brother and I created an 18-minute animated video,” says Sneha. “We drew the characters, came up with the plot, and created a storyboard. We got animators to animate it, and had our movie premiere at Holiday Inn back in November of 2019.”

Deeply concerned by the growing mental health issues in our community, Sneha and Reddy tour CCISD elementary schools, teaching young children the importance of brain development and brain health maintenance through nutrition and exercise.

“My brother and I had this idea, but after writing a research paper for school on the subject, it really pushed me to go the distance and make the movie because it’s a serious issue,” says Sneha. “We go around to elementary schools in CCISD. We’re also working to present it to the elementary school at Incarnate Word Academy. I think that it would be really effective.”

Mental health is an under-discussed problem in the U.S. According to It’s Your Life Foundation’s Executive Director, Zehra Surani, Ph.D., 61,500,300 citizens experience mental health disorder problems each year, which is a whopping 1 out of 5 people. This year, It’s Your Life Foundation implemented the program in October 2019, and within two months reached almost 2,000 people.

It’s Your Life Foundation holds fundraisers every year that help to raise money for programs such as iConquer: Brain Health. For more information, visit itsyourlifefoundation.org. To date, the foundation has reached over 115,688 students and is on the path to educating even more students on the matter.

Contact: itsyourlifefoundation.org

Happy Hour Bites

BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

It can be anyone’s happy hour when you’ve got food options… and boy, do options make us hungry. Grub specials are popping up hourly around the Coastal Bend for any type of taste to accompany your happy hour appetite, and it looks like you’ve made it just in time.

THE POST AT LAMAR PARK

We’ll just put it this way: the perfect pair for a Post cocktail is a Post appetizer, and our friends in Lamar Park won’t let us down. If you catch them before 7:00pm, you can indulge in their homemade pork skins, pretzels and beer cheese, or even their mesquite smoked salmon spread. Finding a drink pairing won’t be hard with their extensive shelf, so go ahead and grab any grub. Get your taste buds ready. 411 Doddridge St. #102

KATZ 21 GRUB AND SOCIAL

e South Side’s ritziest social bar likes to switch it up on the daily. Discounts on their best salads, burgers, and even Wednesday’s famous dollar wings can be sought out before 7:00pm on their weekday schedule. Oh, and make sure to check out their new bar and bite section. 5702 Spohn Dr. South

495 CHESAPEAKE EATS

Specializing in Maryland cuisine and cra cocktails, 495 Chesapeake Eats is a de nite Rockport favorite. eir menu is stacked with mouth-watering entrees and tasty bites. Every Tuesday through Saturday from 5:00 to 6:30pm, you can order delicious appetizers such as fried brussels sprouts tossed in honey and goat cheese, Charm City jumbo shrimp, and baked oysters for less!

317 1008 E. North St.

NIKO’S STEAKHOUSE

Believe it or not, we come to Niko’s for more than just their choice cuts. eir happy hour appetizer deals t the ideal mood for their happy hour cocktails. At the classic and casual steakhouse, the bang for your buck can make your whole evening.

5409 Saratoga Blvd.

SCUTTLEBUTT’S SEAFOOD

SPID’s well-known seafood joint has brought the best of both worlds together: land and sea. Dine in from 3:00pm to 7:00pm and get a taste for fresh snow crab, oysters on the half shell, and you-peel-’em shrimp for half o the market price during their happy hour promotion. 14254 S Padre Island Dr.

THE POST AT LAMAR PARK

CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE,

CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE, P.A.

Gabriel Lopez, M.D.

Gabriel Lopez, M.D.

“Making Lives Better”

Rudy Garza, M.D.

Gabriel Lopez, M.D.

Board Certified in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Board Certified in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Are you suffering from Chronic Pain?

Are you suffering from Chronic Pain?

Dr. Lopez may be able to help.

Dr. Lopez may be able to help.

Board Eligible in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Rudy Garza, M.D. Board Eligible in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

• Treatment options include injections that reduce or alleviate pain and/or a variety of pain relieving medications

• Treatment options include injections that reduce or alleviate pain and/or a variety of pain relieving medications

* Treating all types of chronic pain

* Treating all types of chronic pain

* Most insurances accepted

* Most insurances accepted

• Treating all types of chronic pain including, but not limited to back, neck, joint, muscle, leg, arm, hip, knee, pelvic, abdominal, headache, shingles and diabetic pain.

• Treating all types of chronic pain including, but not limited to back, neck, joint, muscle, leg, arm, hip, knee, pelvic, abdominal, headache, shingles and diabetic pain.

* Both Drs. are fluent in Spanish

* Both Drs. are fluent in Spanish

SPID Corpus

SPID Corpus Christi, TX 78415

• Accepting new patients by self or physician referral depending on insurance.

Christi,

TX 78415

• Accepting new patients by self or physician referral depending on insurance.

Located bet ween Kostor yz & Weber) www.ccpainmed.com |

Located bet ween Kostor yz & Weber) www.ccpainmed.com | “Se Habla Español”

• Accepting Medicare, Spohn, Humana, BCBS, Humana Gold, Cigna, Tricare, Aetna, United Health Care, BCBS Blue Advantage, Workers Comp insurance and Christus Health Silver.

• Accepting Medicare, Spohn, Humana, BCBS, Humana Gold, Cigna, Tricare, Aetna, United Health Care, BCBS Blue Advantage, Workers Comp insurance and Christus Health Silver.

Specializing in Interventional Pain | Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Specializing in Interventional Pain | Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Board Certified in Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology

Board Certified in Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology

3825 SPID Corpus Christi, Tx 78415 (Located between Kostoryz & Weber)

Matt Stevens

CANDID CONVERSATION WITH THE ZANY AND CHARISMATIC CHEF BEHIND CHILI CON CHILI

BY:

KYLIE COOPER

BY: LILLIAN REITZ

FIRST, TELL ME A LITTLE BIT ABOUT WHAT CHILI CON CHILI IS.

Chili con Chili is a cooking show that appears on the Chili con Chili Facebook page every Sunday at 7pm. The show has been on Facebook for over three years. It features a different meal each week, and the recipe always has chili in it or served with it. Humor is a huge part of this show – telling unheard stories about where the recipes originated. Every week, Chili con Chili teaches the viewers the Spanish word of the day, and the name of the recipe is always spoken in Spanish, so you get a little bit of a Spanish lesson as well. Fifteen minutes into every show, the doorbell rings and a surprise taster appears in the kitchen while I am cooking. The taster is served the meal that was being cooked, followed by a quick interview to learn everything anyone needs to know about the surprise taster.

HOW DID THE IDEA TO START THE SHOW COME TO YOU?

The idea of Chili con Chili came to me from a book I was reading about a successful businessman in Mexico, and how he chose to do something out of his comfort zone and how that became a passion of his new life. I decided I wanted to do a cooking show because the ones on TV can be boring or not funny. So, I put together a team. I asked my partner of 30 years to be the producer of the show, “Freddy the Producer” – even though his job is mainly to pick out a different bandana for me to wear each episode and answer the door when the surprise taster rings the doorbell. Reno the Dog “El Reno,” one of our five dogs, walks around while I cook, and (I asked) our best friend Sam, “Sam the Taster” to ring my door-

bell 15 minutes after the show started and to come in and taste the food I was cooking. Everyone fell in love with Sam; he stole the show. Sadly, Sam passed away last year, and we decided to continue to do the show in his honor and allow a different surprise taster every show.

HAVE YOU ALWAYS LOVED TO COOK?

Yes, I have! Some good recipes, some not so good. I was the youngest of six children, so I was always my mother’s helper and I studied everything she cooked.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE THIS SHOW BRINGS TO THOSE WHO WATCH IT?

I hope Chili con Chili makes everyone who watches laugh or at least smile. The show is really ridiculous; however, it is fun and full of a lot of positive energy. So, I hope that is what it brings to those who decide to turn it on.

WHEN YOU AREN’T FILMING THE SHOW, HOW ARE YOU SPENDING YOUR TIME?

When I am not filming the show, I run my own entertainment business, supplying talent for concerts, festivals, private parties, corporate events, and fundraising events for nonprofit organizations throughout Texas. I am also a consultant for a corporation in the Rio Grande Valley and a consultant for the Ready

or Not Foundation here in Corpus Christi. My boyfriend, “Freddy the Producer,” and I have five dogs – El Reno, El Hondo, El Rusty, El CoCo, and El Lilly – who we love to play with. We also like to travel to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, as often as we can.

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE ASPECTS OF DOING CHILI CON CHILI?

The feedback I get is super, super cool. Everyone tells me they love the show, and almost everyone who watches it are people I don’t know personally, which is neat. We’ve had over 6,000 viewers for episodes, and the fact that many people are connecting with me and this show is overwhelming. I also love getting to meet our surprise tasters, most of whom I do not know until they show up on the show. Past tasters include judges, Governor candidates, psychologists, District Attorneys, mayors, city managers, my friend and her 97-year-old mother, students, drag queens, and quadruplets...just to name a few.

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE RECIPES TO COOK?

I have this old picadillo recipe from my mother. My friends and family all always love it and I must say, it is truly the bomb.

CONVERSATION

PHOTO

25 LOCAL SPOTS EVERYONE’S TALKING ABOUT (AND EATING AT) RIGHT NOW

and canals of Corpus, innovative preparations are making waves on the island, and everywhere we turn, we seem to find another intriguing restaurant we’ve never tried before.

That’s why we’ve created a one-stop guide to 25 local restaurants (in no particular order) you need to check out this year. To curate this list, we turned to our “Foodie Panel." While not tied to any specific restaurant on this list, these folks are always out on the town, in the know, and on the edge of what’s happening in the Coastal Bend. After each panelist submitted a list of their 25 must-try restaurants, our editors then cross-referenced the lists and added a few of our own faves. The final result is a restaurant list that makes us beam with Coastal Bend pride as much as it makes our stomachs rumble with hunger. Let’s dive in.

AISLYNN CAMPBELL

BY: EMMA COMERY PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES & LILLIAN REITZ

THAI SUN ISLAND CAFE

JAJA CAFÉ

A HOME-COOKED MEAL

Even on a Wednesday night, after a long shift at the hospital or under the glaring deadline of a term paper, diners at Jaja Cafe take the time to be just that: diners. In the hour I’m sitting, enjoying my meal, I don’t see a single to-go order (though that’s certainly an option). No, folks here sit, chat, and, for the time it takes to eat a meal, call this place home.

Jaja means home in Cantonese, and that’s precisely the environment owner Pam sought to create when she opened her doors eight months ago. Originally from Shanghai, one of her primary goals is to make food that reminds you of your mother’s cooking, no matter which culinary tradition your mother cooks in. Deeply rooted in the traditional flavors and styles of her upbringing, Pam has high standards for quality and freshness. Her dumplings are made by hand daily, and she refuses to work with frozen produce. This is a far cry from styrofoam to-go-box Chinese food. This is comfort, warmth, and care in its edible form. It’s nourishment.

LOOKING FOR A DOWNTOWN VENUE?

VIETNAM OFFERS EXQUISITELY APPOINTED PRIVATE SPACES FOR GROUPS OF 50 TO 200

GET WHISKED AWAY 1 2

VIETNAM RESTAURANT

In this vein, Pam’s not afraid to embrace Americanized classics like General Tso’s Chicken, but she’s going to make sure she uses the freshest and highest quality ingredients. “Some American Chinese food is really good,” Pam says matter-of-factly. It’s that blending of authentic Chinese dishes with the Americanized favorites that perhaps makes Jaja feel like home for everyone who walks through the door. Whether you go authentic or not, Pam will take care of you.

5714 MCARDLE ROAD

Walking through the doors of Vietnam Restaurant on the corner of Water and Starr in Downtown Corpus Christi is a transportation. Palm trees and sunshine give way to an intimately lit dining room that feels continents away from South Texas. Traditional Vietnamese instruments and pottery line the walls like a museum curation, and in the center of it all sits a jaw-dropping statue of the golddraped Buddha, cross-legged on an oversized lotus flower.

For owner Lien Lam, an elegant, relaxing ambiance is just as much a part of her dining philosophy as the quality of her ingredients or plating of her dishes. Nary a lampshade is swapped out without first

consulting renowned architect Bibi Dykema, who has been instrumental in Vietnam’s design since day one.

Born into the restaurant business in Vietnam, Lien is selftaught in the kitchen. Alongside her brother Tony, she combines traditional Vietnamese cuisine with experimental fare. Take the Fuji Fried Rice, for example. “That’s a family recipe,” she says, “you won’t find that at any other Vietnamese restaurant.” A shame, because this rice steamed in tomato sauce with veggies, chicken, and shrimp is a flavor explosion, and I’m already planning my next trip downtown for a second helping.

701 N. WATER STREET

"Get the

it's my favorite!"

Pork Bulgogi,

GERALD FLORES ON BIG BOWL KOREAN BBQ -

Tucked into a strip mall on Airline Road, one tiny takeout spot is bringing big-city foodie vibes to the Coastal Bend. From street tacos to banh mi, Z Counter is every Asian food craving you’ve ever had. Between the minimalistic sit-down area and pan-national menu, it’s also your ideal street food experience in the comfortable setting of a brick and mortar.

I sit awhile and watch the orders come out – steaming bowls of kimchi soup, a spicy beef and noodle soup that will cure you of any seasonal congestion, ten-

Move aside, Chick-fil-A and Popeye’s, because 8TE is here to show you what a real chicken sandwich tastes like. It’s clean, simple, hand-breaded and marinated in buttermilk and sweet tea, and it comes with homemade maple mustard. Can you get any more authentically southern than that?

With every bite, the chicken falls apart between your teeth, so tender it’s like pulled pork with wings. Crispy, juicy … this is the chicken sandwich you’ve been waiting for – sans the drive-thru.

der pork belly tacos, basil fried rice, bibimbap (a gorgeous Korean rice dish), fishball dumpling soup … are you hungry yet?

Their unique and tasty menu is packed with fusion food items you can’t really find anywhere else in town. Green onion pancakes, Miso Mac, and Sloppy Tso’s Buns are just a few fun items you’ll find when attempting to make a selection. Order takeout or sit and stay a while; no matter your preferred dining method, Z Counter never fails.

1220 AIRLINE ROAD #155

They say that beside every killer chicken sandwich is a pile of fries to die for. Well, 8TE brings its A-game with – you probably didn’t guess it – beet fries and sriracha ranch; the perfectly reimagined complement to this classic southern comfort dish. A little bit old school, a little bit trendy, each bite makes it harder not to think how much this meal feels like everything I love about Corpus.

1220 MCARDLE ROAD #250

FOLLOW 8TE ON FACEBOOK FOR HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS! FRIED PICKLES, ANYONE?

BIG BOWL KOREAN

KOREAN ON THE GO 5

Texas may have a long history of grilling the best barbecue (cocky but true), but that doesn’t mean we don’t love trying other styles! At Big Bowl Korean BBQ, uniquely Korean preparations and flavors are hitting the grill. And, lawdy, they will rock your world. Don’t let the 10-item menu fool you; this BBQ joint is the very definition of small but mighty. Beef, pork, and chicken bulgogi showcase a traditional form of Korean cooking called gui, where thin, marinated slices of meat are grilled on a barbecue. Bulgogi literally means “fire meat,” and, y’all, this food is pure fire. If restaurants were rated with flame emojis instead of stars, Big Bowl would be a five-flame take-out experience.

BBQ

If you do opt to dine in, you can relax in the minimalistic metro design of the dining space. Modern tables and chairs, a magnet board menu, and framed prints of London, New York, and Paris create an aesthetic that is half metro, half childhood whimsy. This is easy, fun food that hits the spot every time.

6410 WEBER ROAD #19

LATITUDE 28˚02'

AN ARTISTIC MASTERPIECE

Oh, Latitude, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love your beachy tables and high back chairs, your big bay windows looking out at the water. I love your intimate bar and artsy cocktails (hey there, Jungletini). I love your art-covered walls and your dedication to supporting local artists. I love the large abstract statue out front that makes me pause and consider its shape every time. I love your oysters, your crispy crab tostadas, your U-Peel-Em Shrimp, your Sambuca Chocolate Mousse …

RAMONA CURATES LOCAL ART FOR HER GALLERY AT THE RESTAURANT AND PARTNERS WITH THE ROCKPORT ART CENTER DURING ART WALK TO HIGHLIGHT LOCAL ARTISTS

7

GINGER CAFE

A TRIP AROUND THE WORLD

Inspired by travels to countries with unparalleled culinary histories –Greece, Turkey, Germany, France, South Africa – brothers Jordan and Ramzi bring refreshing, flavorful dishes from everywhere and anywhere right to your table.

“We only cook with olive oil,” says Jordan. “There’s no real butter on the market.” Olive oil, he asserts, is “the only non-cheating oil.” Hear, hear! This insistence on standards and quality is what established Ginger Cafe as the golden standard for Corpus Mediterranean and eastern cuisine since 2014. When Jordan and Ramzi opened the restaurant, they established three core values: quality of ingredients, impeccable service, and straight-up good eats. Everything must be organic, must be fresh. And if Jordan isn’t satisfied with the quality of one of his ingredients, he’s been known to drive hours just to find it.

The first time I ever ate at Latitude, I had the red snapper

bite and I was ruined. It took every ounce of selflessness I have ever had to stop half-way and ask the waiter to box up the rest so I could take it home and share with my sweet, starving boyfriend.

Husband and wife team Craig and Ramona Day opened this spot with inspiration from years of culinary experience in various forms. This coastal luxury of a joint serves up Shrimp Gilroy, Craig’s Crab Cakes, and dozens of other mouthwatering dishes for all.

105 N. AUSTIN STREET

There’s no point in asking for a recommendation at Ginger Cafe. You may as well order the whole menu. Tender lamb chops, homemade pita chips, hummus shwarma, gyros, kebabs. It’s street food, fine dining, and comfort food all rolled into one.

7009 S. STAPLES STREET

Three years ago, Paolo Cancio left a glitzy position working alongside Wolfgang Puck at an MGM Resort to move to Corpus and open a restaurant with his sister, Kit. Wielding not only classic French training but a cooking resume that included restaurants around the world, Paolo developed a menu inspired by his childhood favorites from the Philippines: lumpia, pancit, adobo pork, fried rice, grilled shrimp and chicken.

In an increasingly diverse and foodie-centric Corpus, Paolo makes sure Kanto stands out by incorporating some finer stylistic twists like grilling his meats to be more tender than traditional, adding pickled onions on the pork belly kebab, and drizzling mustard aioli on the chicken gizzard skewers (trust me, you want it). And when it comes to presentation, he brings it. From the dishware itself to the subtle garnishes, the plating is as much an art form as the cooking, highlighting the fresh, nourishing focus of the food.

Sure, this is comfort food, party food. But casual certainly doesn’t mean less important. “When you’re eating,” says Paolo, “you always bring your loved ones. Filipino food isn’t a romantic cuisine like French food, but it’s still a cuisine of love.”

5425 S. PADRE ISLAND DRIVE #101A

RESERVE A BOODLE FIGHT. THIS FAMILY-STYLE, UTENSILSFREE, GLOVES-OPTIONAL MEAL IS INSPIRED BY THE FAMILY/FIGHT STYLE OF EATING IN THE MILITARY. FRESH FISH, FRUIT, AND SKEWERED MEATS ARE PLATED ATOP BANANA LEAVES AND SERVED ON LARGE TRAYS FOR SHARING, AND IT’S WINNER TAKE ALL.

"If you see a line waiting to be seated when you arrive, don't be discouraged, trust me, it's worth the wait."

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9

SOUTHSIDE BARBACOA

THE SOUTHSIDE STAPLE

Twenty-two years ago, Southside Barbacoa was a cramped little 3-table restaurant that did most of its business with to-go orders. Today, you’re lucky if you can find a seat for breakfast at one of its 20 tables. “The weekends don’t stop,” says manager Cassandra.

Tucked inside the Market on Everhart, this local classic most certainly never fails. No matter your preferred taco order, the folks at Southside Barbacoa will whip up some of the tastiest

tacos you’ll ever get your hands on in the Coastal Bend.

Owned by husband and wife team Manuel and Maria Aguilar, this Tex-Mex favorite strives to make every dish feel like everything you love about home and family. “Everything is made with love,” says Maria. From classics like Steak & Eggs breakfast plates and a Machacado Taquito, this is Tex-Mex in its most authentic, satisfying form.

5894 EVERHART ROAD #1

VIANNEY RODRIGUEZ ON SOUTHSIDE BARBACOA

LA PLAYA MEXICAN GRILLE

COASTAL COMIDA

After 17 years, La Playa Mexican Grille is a longtime favorite in Port Aransas. As owner Greg Villasana recounts, his grandfather moved to Texas from Mexico and opened a restaurant in Austin. Shortly after, he opened the renowned Tony’s Tortilla Factory in both Austin and Houston. With such a culinary lineage, Greg seemed destined to work in the restaurant industry. “The business is in my blood,” says Greg. When he and his wife inherited her father’s beach house in Port A, they decided to make the leap and open their own restaurant. A man of simple, but very good, taste, Greg knew he wanted two things: a Mexican grill and “a bunch of beer and tequila.” As it turns out, so did Port A.

Given the location, it’s no surprise that La Playa’s authentic menu features a strong focus on fresh, local seafood. That’s what Greg is all about: fresh, local, and homemade. With recipes developed from family traditions, his previous culinary jobs, and his own creativity, Greg and his team at La Playa offer upscale Mexican dining in a casual, quirky beachside atmosphere.

222 BEACH STREET #5312

BELLINO’S FEATURES A CHARMING LITTLE BOTTEGA WHERE YOU CAN GRAB IMPORTED PASTA, WINES, AND CURED MEATS

BELLINO ITALIANO RISTORANTE

SICILIAN ELEGANCE

Vitello Saltimbocca, Cacciucco, and Piatto Misto. Trust me: You want all of it. Chef Francesco Inguaggiato brings everything he learned from working in his grandfather’s trattoria in Sicily right here to Corpus. A self-proclaimed traditionalist, Francesco nonetheless enjoys mixing in his own takes on Americanized Italian recipes, and he specializes in traditional seafood preparations.

Since last January, Bellino’s has been making its own pasta and breads in-house, and yes, you can absolutely taste the difference. The pasta is durum flour and water. No eggs, no preservatives. Then there’s the pinsa. An ancient Roman flatbread made of soy and rice flour imported from Italy, the pizza ancestor is 70 percent gluten-free and light as a feather.

The granddaughter of Italian immigrants, I grew up on homemade pizza, hand-rolled cavatelli, and more spaghetti al pesto than is probably good for a girl. As a result, I’m rather snobbish about Italian restaurants outside of Italy. But, oh, was I put in my place, was I converted, was I dazzled. The small, intimate trattoria on Alameda transported me with flavors, wine, and decor. I was in Italy, sipping on a Biscardo Neropasso and munching on a slice of pinsa, perhaps waiting for my cousin Antonella. Dining at Bellino’s was a singular experience that touched more than my palate – it fully changed my sense of place. In that evening, my perspective changed; Corpus expanded to a city of multiple countries and cultures, where any door in a strip mall could lead to a new culinary exploration.

B&J'S PIZZA

There are some things in life that should never change, and a good sauce recipe is one of them. B&J’s Pizza owner Chris Baker understands this truth, and he’s preserved B&J’s beloved pizza sauce and dough recipe since his parents bought the original restaurant on SPID in 1987.

A good change? Six years ago, Chris added a brewpub to the newer Staples location, and recently brought in a brewmaster and sent him to train at the Appalachian State Brewery School. To date, the team has brewed more than 100 original beers to boast of alongside the 200+ imported and craft beverages available. I have to ask about the Hairy Porter. Legend has it, the

name developed from a homebrew recipe gone awry when the brewer’s dog, Hairy, dropped a tennis ball in the brewpot. No worries, the ball-free version is pretty fantastic.

Perfectly paired with any of their brews, their menu includes wings, subs, salads, and of course, pizza. Each of their pies are made with the freshest of ingredients, which make for some of the best pizza you’ll find in the Coastal Bend. Anything from the garlicky Jack’s Special (which also happens to be a wing flavor) to a classic cheese pizza, you really can’t order wrong when you’re here.

6335 S. PADRE ISLAND DRIVE

6662 S. STAPLES STREET

ARTESANO

FLAVOR OFF THE GRID

The backside of the YWCA probably isn’t the first place you’d go looking for authentic, gourmet Mexican street tacos. But that’s where you’ll find them. Here, beneath the shade of an oak tree, Chef A.J. Brooks is whipping up bold flavor combos you didn’t even know existed. With no formal culinary training, he takes inspiration from the authentic cooking traditions of his grandmother, Gloria, and adds twists, tangs, and unexpected toppings to elevate old favorites to new discoveries.

Deeply authentic but bursting with irrepressible and unconventional creativity, these tacos question and challenge their very definition. What makes good food? The preparation? How you cook the meal? The ingredients you use? The risks you’re willing to take? A.J.’s flavor combinations invite you to debate just that.

One bite of his Pork Carnita Confit and I’m a believer: high-class French preparations can have down-home South Texas flavor. Crisp textures and fresh veggies like poblano raja (strips of poblano pepper), carrot, and cabbage balance out the dark, fatty meat before a jicama slaw comes out of nowhere and takes you in a whole new flavor direction. Fresh, rich, flavorful, and multidimensional, an Artesano meal is an edible version of an Andy Warhol; an abstract reinvention of a classic.

4601 CORONA DRIVE

YOU CAN JOIN THE RANKS OF THAI SUN’S #BOWLLIFTERS BY SNAPPING AND SHARING A PIC OF YOURSELF EATING ONE OF THEIR DELICIOUS SOUPS STRAIGHT FROM THE BOWL. WHO NEEDS SPOONS, RIGHT?

THAI SUN ISLAND CAFE

DINNER AND A SHOW 14

I push through the door of Thai Sun to a game of verbal ping-pong. “Girl, I saw you strut in here strong as hell!” Chef Toui Thongsavanh calls out to me. I freeze.

“I saw her strut in here like she just stormed the gates of hell!”another man -- Chef Joe Brock -- counters.

Not to be outdone, Thongsavanh throws back, “I saw her strut in like she was walking the catwalk for Victoria’s Secret.”

(This is my twenty-fifth restaurant in two weeks. If I’m strutting down any catwalk, it’s in Spanx.)

Turns out this bizarre yet entertaining greeting is part of Thai Sun’s unique brand of warm hospitality. “We treat all of our guests like family,” says Brock. Born into a military family in Japan, Brock spent much of his youth in Thailand before moving to Texas as a teen. With Thongsavanh’s twenty-plus years of owning Thai restaurants and Brock’s extensive background in traditional sushi and fine dining, this culinary team is exactly what Padre Island has been missing. Just a few months old, Thai Sun is still in its early stages and recently added additional seating to offer a casual dine-in option. The ever-expanding menu of entrees and sushi rolls has been drawing diners from over the bridge and making loyal regulars of them.

13925 S. PADRE ISLAND DRIVE

15

THAI COTTAGE

THAILAND APPROVED

At the cottage, a rich history awaits. Our Thai Cottage here in Corpus is but one of nine Thai Cottages bringing standout Thai food to Texas. Originally founded by husband and wife team Chai and Ting in Houston, Thai Cottage has been serving up knockout food for over 30 years. The intimate, elegant dining room is accented by an exposed brick wall and the stunning mural that spans it. Brightly colored and depicting Thai farmers carrying buckets of water and picking rice, the painting was purchased by the owners in Thailand and shipped to Corpus in panels. They’ve also completely redone their outdoor patio. Draped in luscious greenery and plenty of seating, the scene both in and outside are set for you to dine with others.

The classic Panang Curry soars with the lightest of coconut milk bases, fresh vegetables, and basil. Creative dishes like the crab-wrapped Shrimp Mermaid are more unique to Thai Cottage and showcase inventive plating that lends a modern edge to this traditional fare. And the desserts … oh, but the desserts. Contrasting temperatures and textures of the sweet rice and thai custard symphonize on my tongue, and I am at the mercy of my spoon.

5830 MCARDLE ROAD

THAI COTTAGE IS GUARANTEED BY THAI SELECT, AN APPROVAL GRANTED BY THE THAI GOVERNMENT FOR RESTAURANTS OVERSEAS SERVING AUTHENTIC THAI FOOD

PITMASTER PAGE SAYS, “IF YOU WANT CHICKEN, GET HERE EARLY. IT’S TYPICALLY THE FIRST THING WE SELL OUT OF.”

HOEGEMEYER’S BARBEQUE BARN

UNBEATABLE BARBEQUE

There’s something irresistible about a restaurant that says, “When we run out, we’re out.”

You just know it’s going to blow your mind. So, while South Texas certainly doesn’t skimp on the BBQ options, if there’s one place you visit in 2020, make it Hoegemeyer’s. From slowsmoked brisket, smoked chicken inspired by the owner’s days owning a fried chicken joint, or pulled pork to Po’Boys, this is homestyle cooking with a subtle German twist – that’s what owner and pitmaster David Page is all about. Oh, and also quantity. That’s right; you can order by the platter or the pound, so wear your stretchy pants.

If you’re like me, you can barely spare the time between bites to stop and take in the atmosphere, but I truly recommend that you do. The 90-year-old warehouse was remodeled entirely with reclaimed materials and furnishings that were found at garage sales.

The overall dining experience at this local favorite is top notch. Consistently smokin’ the good stuff, Hoegemeyer’s serves up their barbeque from the heart. Simple methods, fresh ingredients, and a loving crew all make this spot a must.

711 CONCRETE STREET

Where to Drink Now

HOUSE OF ROCK

THE SEASONAL SIGNATURES

BAR UNDER THE SUN

THE DOWNTOWN WATERING HOLE

TAPOLOGY TEXAS PUB

TAPS ON TAPS ON TAPS

TANNINS WINE BAR

THE WINE PARADISE

SUGARBAKERS

NEIGHBORHOOD CAFE 17

Three slabs of thick-cut French baguette sit before me, soaked in strawberry brandy compote and topped with the merest sprinkle of confectioner’s sugar. This is just one of Chef Christian’s many French Toast options at Sugarbakers’ Saturday Brunch. One bite and I am, well, toast.

Sugarbakers is a charming European-inspired cafe serving up indulgent breakfasts and inventive salads and sandwiches. Fresh breads and bright veggies bring you Caprese Paninis, Wild Field Salads, Black Bean Quinoa Burgers, and Blackened Mahi Mahi Wraps. It’s not all sweet and sugary, we promise. This is hearty food prepared impeccably.

ON SUNDAYS, STOP BY FOR BRUNCHAND A FULL BLOODY MARY BAR

For Chef Christian, it’s a creative outlet. Classically trained in French and Italian cooking, he took over Sugarbakers from a Polish woman seven years ago. Rather than starting from scratch, he heightened the European feel she had created in the restaurant, expanded the menu about 300 percent, and doubled their baking capacity.

Today, it’s a local go-to for coffee and a pastry, as well as birthday and wedding cakes, or brunch and mimosas, or a quaint lunch. Sweet or savory, Sugarbakers offers the whole breakfast/brunch spread from donut breakfast sandwiches to the Lobster Avo-Toast Benny.

2766 SANTA FE STREET

BLACK MARLIN SEASIDE GRILL

A three-dimensional marlin, shimmering and open-mouthed, erupts from the wall like he’s trying to grab my Grouper Reuben. I don’t blame him. The art is half the experience here at Black Marlin. Large, captivating, textured artwork accents the shiplap, and a marlin statue outside arches like it’s fighting a hook. Small but airy, the dining room is beachy and casual, the very embodiment of “island time.”

The real art, however, is a la Chef Gail Huesmann, whose Le Cordon Bleu training doesn’t mask her southern roots. Gail is all about comfort food, fresh fish, and lunch you can lick off your fingers. Try the Bacon Crab Beignets with a spicy orange remoulade, or the award-winning Shrimp & Grits. Don’t let the gorgeous plating stop you from diving in.

258 SNAPDRAGON

COASTAL CASUAL 18

Where to Snack Now

LUCYS SNACKBAR

DOWNTOWN PIT STOP

HAMLIN BAKERY

BELOVED BAKED GOODS

YOLA COCINA MEXICANA

Black-and-white art deco walls with gold mirrors and modern accent lighting wasn’t what I was expecting of a Mexican restaurant. “There is this idea,” says owner Ryan Rios, “that for something to be ‘Mexican,’ it has to be bright and colorful.” YOLA’s interior was inspired by Rios’ visits to the Polanco District of Mexico City. “It is elegant and stylishly fashion able, from the old to the new. It feels glamourous and intimate with a level of sophistication.” With hand-laid tile and handmade materials from SquareFoot Design Studio, that’s the atmosphere he has created at YOLA. Like its sister restaurant, BKK, YOLA strives to provide an elevated dining experience where every detail, from the hot sauce to the goldware, is care fully curated to present Rios’ interpre tation of Mexico.

Part of that interpretation is working with sous chef Juanita to recreate and reimagine dishes from their youth. For Rios, there’s value in buying the heir loom blue corn imported from Oaxa ca – not only for its unique flavor, but because of its contribution to Mexican farmers. As for salsa: “Growing up in South Texas, you get accustomed to a certain hot sauce that seems widely available, but we had a fun time experimenting with pepper varieties and appreciating each for their unique colors and flavors.”

The name YOLA honors Rios’ grand mother, Yolanda, whom he calls his “angel grandmother and North Star.”

3818 S. ALAMEDA STREET #36

BIEN MÉRITÉ PASTRIES PERFECTED PINK OCTOPUS CAFE SWEETS & SAVORIES

RIOS’ ORIGINAL NAME FOR THE RESTAURANT WAS MADRE, BUT, HE SAYS, “BECAUSE I SPENT SO MUCH TIME ON EVERY DETAIL IN THE RESTAURANT, FROM THE FURNITURE AND FIXTURES TO THE PLATES AND FLAVORS OF EACH DISH, I FELT AS IF I WAS DOING IT AN INJUSTICE BY NOT BEING EQUALLY IN LOVE WITH THE NAME.” SO, YOLA IT WAS.

SNACK WITH CLASS AT HAPPY HOUR THIS SEASON. APPETIZERS ARE HALF PRICE, AND THERE’S ALWAYS FRESH SUSHI ON THURSDAYS.

20

THE PHOENIX

TREAT YOURSELF

Turning onto Piper Boulevard (a street so hidden I miss it the first time and have to turn around) in Port Aransas, I think to myself, Where the hell is this place? As it turns out, The Phoenix Restaurant & Bar sits on one of the island’s most postcard-worthy marinas. Framed by palm trees and overlooking glittering waters dotted with sailboats, this small restaurant is an elegant study in shiplap and aqua. In the evening, they wait for the sun to touch the horizon before raising the shades on the windows. Then, the best view of the sunset is yours.

This fine dining island favorite is the passion project of Chef Tiana Worsham and her wife, Vanessa.

With specials like Pork Belly Street Tacos, Grouper Gremolata, and Creamy Mushroom Soup, the menu is heavily influenced by locally available fresh seafood and Asian preparations. “It’s what we like to eat,” Chef Tiana explains, simple as that.

Tiana is the queen of light breading, gentle sauces, and contrasting consistency. Take the crab cake for example: 99 percent crab, 1 percent crumb, and drizzled with a bright lemon aioli. Then there’s the Grouper Gremolata – smooth avocado and tangy lemon meld over a rich fish, and … I think I saw God that night.

3500A ISLAND MOORINGS

FRESCO

A FRESH TAKE ON AN OLD SPACE 21

At Fresco, Tony and Oneida Maldonado are bringing Mexican culture (and food!) to the heart of Corpus’ downtown area. “We want to make a little ripple in the community,” says Tony, folding t-shirts to sell at their mini-pulga (vintage market) in their front window. Fresco has quickly become a hub of artistic and cultural congregation and exchange. Located next to K Space Contemporary, Fresco has hosted art shows and participates in Art Walk each month.

But, I really need to talk about the food, because any restaurant that has fish head soup as a special and aguas frescas any time of day is my kind of adventure. Primarily featuring on-thego and quick bite lunch or late-night options like sliders, tacos, and bowls, Fresco will always keep you on your toes with treats like Tejano Poutine, ceviche, and piping hot bowls of chicken pozole. Here, the answer to “Dessert?” is always “Yes,” because you don’t say no to peaches and cream tres leches. Ever.

619 N. CHAPARRAL STREET

STOP BY EVERY THIRD SUNDAY FROM 1-5P.M. FOR A FLEA MARKET, LIVE DJ, AND ½ PRICE AGUAS FRESCAS.

WHEN KRISTOFFER AND HIS PARTNER AJ WERE DESIGNING THE EATING SPACE AT SHORELINE, THEY CAME ACROSS OLD BOWLING LANES FROM AN ALLEY IN FLOUR BLUFF AND MADE STYLISH TABLES OUT OF THEM

LITTLE MANILA LUMPIA HOUSE

I walk into Little Manila Lumpia House to find four women popping sunflower seeds around one very roasted, very delicious-looking pig. One of the women – owner Elena Eddings –offers me some of the sunflower seeds. Her name is Elena, and she’s chatty, quick to laugh, and absolutely delightful. Born in the Philippines, she took over the Flour Bluff restaurant years ago, and is looking to open a second location over the bridge.

Judging by her pancit, she’s good to go. Fresh veggies, tender chicken, and some kind of magical sauce all combine in a dish

that makes it very probable that there will be no leftovers whatsoever. A side of pork lumpia is the perfect snack for the drive home, crispy and flavorful. There really isn’t a wrong way to order here. You can go the classic route with dishes like Beef and Broccoli or Sweet and Sour Chicken and you will surely be satisfied. Pancit Canton, Sinigang Soup, and Fresh Lumpia rolled daily are a few of our favorites off the menu. Nonetheless, this is straight-up addictive food made by a mother-son team with generations of unbeatable knowledge.

2124 WALDRON ROAD

Homemade chips, smoked-in-house meats, and house sauces are just the tip of the DIY iceberg at Shoreline Sandwich Company. Founded and led by chef Kristoffer Busk, this 3-location Corpus favorite is far more than a sandwich shop. As Busk’s wife, Elly, puts it, “You never know what’s happening back in that kitchen.” Forever experimenting, challenging himself and his team, Busk refuses to be limited in what he can create and serve. At Shoreline, the menu has expanded immensely, and now includes entire sections dedicated to different kinds of grilled cheese, burritos, and hot sandwiches. He whips up caviar and ravioli, dabbles in gastronomy, and wins awards for his barbecue. With a food philosophy that includes curing his own bacon and sourcing produce as locally as possible, Busk is leading the growing wave of adventurous, locally-focused dining in Corpus Christi.

After years of trying to build a career as a professional cook, Busk joined forces with his friend A.J. Brooks (the two were working together delivering furniture at the time), and Shoreline was born in the lobby of a bank downtown. Busk describes his career pre-Shoreline as years of “being told ‘no’ all the time.” Perhaps this is why the evolution of Shoreline and Busk’s now multi-business portfolio seems to be built on the concepts of “yes” and “why not.” Within just seven years, Shoreline expanded to include a second location downtown on Leopard Street, and a third in Southside. So wherever you are, you always know where to find the best sandwich around.

600 LEOPARD STREET #106

500 N. SHORELINE BOULEVARD #108

5350 S. STAPLES STREET SHORELINE SANDWICH COMPANY

"Every time you walk through the door at Frank’s, you step into a vintage Corpus Christi dining experience. They just don’t make local restaurants like this anymore."

Amidst the hubbub of retail and offices on Everhart, The Blue Clove feels like a portside oasis, a lighthouse in the storm of traffic, a secret island of culinary treasures. Father-son team Antonio and Tony Posada wow diners with every plate, serving up seafood both classic and reimagined. While Antonio’s resume includes over 20 years as Chef at the Corpus Christi Yacht Club, Tony’s official training consisted of a year at culinary school.

The school, he quickly realized, wasn’t going to teach him what working alongside his father would. As a partner, one of Tony’s main focuses has been heightening the sophistication of The Blue Clove’s branding, atmosphere, and menu design.

“My dad brings the old school,” says Tony. “I bring the new school.”

Together, they have developed an elevated menu of Mexican fusion that includes everything from Grilled Mango Salmon to Sesame Crusted Tuna. An immeasurable range of styles and flavors converge on this one menu, and chef specialties like the Drum Florentine and Tortilla-Crusted Drum will have you licking your plate. If for some reason you can’t find something you’re into on their extensive menu, no worries. Not only are you allowed to go off-book when ordering, it is actually encouraged by Tony!

5884 EVERHART ROAD

AISLYNN CAMPBELL ON FRANK'S SPAGHETTI HOUSE -

FRANK’S SPAGHETTI HOUSE

LOCAL SPOT

I probably look like a nutjob when I walk into Frank’s Spaghetti House at 3p.m. and order a bowl with meat sauce for one. Picture Lady and the Tramp after Tramp dumps Lady and she heartbrokenly stuffs her face with pasta.

At Frank’s, though, there is no heartbreak. Just some supremely twirl-worthy spaghetti.

The menu is classic. Spaghetti, ravioli, lasagna, manicotti … Frank’s does pasta, cheese, and sauce, and they do it well. No surprise, since the original Frank brought his family’s recipes from Sicily to Corpus in 1947, and the business – and recipes – have remained in the family ever since.

And while the middle-of-nowhere location may not be the first place you go looking for Italian fare, locals will tell you the drive is worth it. Humble in curb appeal, Frank’s wins you over with its whimsical interior. Two small dining rooms with a joint fireplace feature floor-to-ceiling decorations like dusty wine bottles, grape bundles, framed art deco, and, naturally, colanders. Plastic red-and-white checked tablecloths cover every table. The whole scene is one note of “Bella Notte” away from a dream.

2724 LEOPARD STREET

Brain Injury Program at Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital Raising the Bar in South Texas

By: Steven Alford for INSPIRE Magazine

Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital received Gold Seal of Approval in Brain Injury Rehabilitation. CCRH has demonstrated compliance with the Joint Commission’s national standards for healthcare quality and safety in disease specific care. Brain Injuries are more common than you think. They can result from trauma such as falls, or car accidents, but are also caused by infections such as Encephalitis, Meningitis, Abscess or Sepsis. Loss of motor skills, memory, and the ability to perform daily activities are common hurdles to living with a brain injury and returning back to a normal routine.

It takes the right kind of team and commitment to a brain injury patient to help them regain their independence and get back to the life they knew before.

The Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program at Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital (CCRH) is elevating care for those in the Coastal Bend living with a range of brain injuries.

Staff at the Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital, which has served the South Texas community for nearly a decade, celebrated as The Joint Commission recently awarded CCRH a Disease Specific Certification in Brain Injury following a successful survey at the facility – a first for the region.

With the new certification, the elite health care accrediting agency recognizes Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital’s ability to rehabilitate patients with a range of brain conditions and injuries, offering nationally recognized care for South Texas patients and families.

“We are very proud and excited to have this seal of approval from The Joint Commission for our program,” said Leticia Morales, Director of Therapy Operations at Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital. “Our goal is to help as many brain injury patients as we can and get them home and back to their daily life.”

The rehabilitation program is based on the recognized brain injury program from Ernest Health, the parent company of Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital.

Goals include creating an environment of recovery for brain injury patients throughout the rehabilitation process to addressing and treating existing impairments as well as preventing future complications. The program’s care plan works with patients and their families to provide education about risk factors, lifestyle changes, safety and more.

Through research and tracking CCRH has recognized a steady increase of brain injuries the past five years. These injuries can lead to not only physical impairments, but also cognitive impairments which can affect a patient’s thinking and motor skill functions.That’s where the experienced team at Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital bring their years of knowledge and training to guide patients and help them regain the life they knew before their injury.

“We just want to get people back to their normal lives as fast as possible,” Morales says. “Get them back to their everyday life so they can live safely.”

BRAIN INJURY CERTIFIED

Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for its Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program by demonstrating compliance with national standards

Brain rehabilitation includes regaining occupational motor skills such as brushing teeth, tying shoes and getting out of bed. But treatment also includes a focus on speech therapy, which Morales says is essentially exercise for your brain – like a day in the gym, only for your mind.

“We focus on ways to communicate effectively, problem solve, manage daily life – functional tasks – that ability to process cognitively,” Morales says. “Those daily tasks that most of us take for granted.”

Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital’s Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program provides a continuum of care for patients, which is possible thanks to a large team of dedicated and experienced health care professionals.

The brain rehabilitation team includes board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians; attending and specialty physicians, psychologist, nursing, physical, occupational and speech therapy; respiratory therapy; dieticians and pharmacists; family support, counseling and more.

Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital believes the ultimate goal of the Brain Injury Rehabilitation program is to enable each patient the ability to attain his or her highest level of mobility and independence, self-care, communication, cognition and psychological adjustment following a brain injury or illness. The process can be remarkable, as patients re-learn how to live their daily lives and regain control of their everyday routine.

Morales says it makes their work meaningful when the rehabilitation team gets to see a real impact on their patients through their commitment to high quality care.

“We provide high quality of care with every patient and we treat them like family, and seeing the outcomes and the gains they make is amazing,” Morales says.

It’s something that makes the team at Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital proud of the real impact their hard work has on real people. “To see someone go from not being able to effectively communicate to being independent again, it’s just wonderful to be a part of,” Morales says.

Corpus Christi Rehabilitation’s Brain Injury Program treats patients through physician referrals, though some patients also arrive through home care.

The center is located at 5726 Esplanade Drive.

If you, your patients or loved ones need a comprehensive approach to regaining functional mobility and independence contact Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital’s referral line at (361) 906-3700.

For more information about Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital, please visit online: CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM

EDUCATION WITHOUT BARRIERS

Del Mar College among the first in the nation to succeed in providing integrated education

By: Kirby Tello

o look at the landscape of education in the Coastal Bend as it is today, it might be difficult to fully imagine the degree to which minority students were not afforded the same opportunities as white students in the environment of decades past. Especially for the younger generation, who have grown up after the Civil Rights Era, it could be easier to forget the times when racial tensions and biases were highly prevalent, not only in the education sector, but in all aspects of daily living right here in our town and throughout the country.

As history books will tell, breaking barriers of discrimination was not easy back in the 1950s. And while the nation as a whole has grown in its acceptance of all backgrounds since then, make no mistake: There are still major areas of opportunity to provide equal rights to historically marginalized communities.

However, in our little slice of island paradise, there is a piece of history in one of our great higher education institutions, Del Mar College, which put Corpus Christi on the map for leading the charge in desegregation in schools.

In 1952, two years before the landmark ruling of Brown v. Board of Education, Del Mar College succeeded in integrating its campus to permit the acceptance of African-American students.

In the years leading up to the college’s desegregation, Dr. Henry Boyd Hall, founding member and President of Corpus Christi’s National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) Chapter and Civil Rights activist, began a tireless effort of demanding integration in local schools. Dr. Hall’s efforts were further supported by a community of black and white women who had already formed the local YWCA together in 1950 and fought to get rid of outdated Jim Crow laws.

Between 1950 and 1952, the state of Texas still sanctioned separate facilities for white and black citizens in (to name a few) state parks and hospitals, and considered marriages between blacks and whites unlawful. These laws did not reflect the type of community Corpus Christi citizens wanted to live in. In fact, many white community members spoke openly about their desire to rid their generation of the old-school mentality of racism and segregation.

In light of this, groups such as the NAACP and YWCA were able to join forces and pressure community officials to make the necessary changes in segregation laws, and properly reflect the desires of the community.

The Board of Regents of Del Mar College were not completely blindsided by these demands. They were well aware of the mounting legal and social pressures to integrate the college, and saw the admittance of black students without discrimination as an issue that would be remedied in only a matter of time. So, when several African-American students attempted to enroll for classes at Del Mar in June of 1952 and were denied admission despite meeting the school’s qualifications, the Regents began to feel the weight of consequences of the students’ rejection, although their decision to turn black students away was supported by state law.

The NAACP threatened the Board of Regents with legal action. The surge of tension rising on campus to go against state law and admit black students was palpable. According to the Caller-Times, in a legal hearing prompted by the NAACP one month after the black students attempted enrollment, the Regents voted unanimously to “admit qualified Negro residents of the district to college-level classes in Del Mar Junior College.” Still, however, campus facilities were not made equal among black and white students. So while the board’s decision, made effective on Sept. 1, 1952, took strides towards integration, there was still work to be done to achieve complete equality.

Faculty members and white students were generally accepting of interracial education and further encouraged integration outside of the classroom. Extracurricular school functions such as dances and parties were made available to all students, but the safety of black students in those arenas couldn’t be guaranteed. And their safety was not threatened by campus culture, but rather highly conservative members of the surrounding community that stood firm with the dehumanizing Jim Crow laws set forth by the state.

However, the trailblazing unanimous vote by the Regents to integrate classes at Del Mar – two years before the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board decision – remains largely out of focus to students today. “[Students] have probably learned about Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman,” says Dr. Lisa Welch, Del Mar College Professor of History. But the more recent groundbreaking efforts to end segregation in our community schools is a highly important achievement for the history of South Texas, and the country.

In light of this gap, Del Mar’s Communication Specialist, Michael Bratton, was part of the effort to announce a new course series that the college started to offer in 2018, which explores the depths of the city’s African-American history. These courses are designed to take a look beyond African-American history as documented during slavery, and provide focus to more recent black American history as it pertains to the Civil Rights Era.

It is true that Del Mar College was a catalyst for the nation as a whole to begin desegregating schools across other higher education institutions. Many of those involved in the Brown v. Board decision monitored the Del Mar integration to see if, in fact, allowing interracial education across the country would even work. As a poster child for achieving integration in schools, Del Mar College essentially provided a roadmap for success for all other schools that followed in their footsteps.

Keeping with its rich history of blazing new trails, Del Mar College continues to lead the pack when it comes to putting the best interests of its students first. Whether it be 1952 or 2020, Del Mar College has an outstanding record of valuing their commitment to delivering the best education and educational environment possible. And this is just the beginning.

Love has a way of taking your breath away. And at Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, we believe your wedding day should do the same. From impeccable service and sensational cuisine to beautiful bayfront views, we’re here to ensure your special day will leave you breathless. Let our expert staff take care of every detail, so all you have to say is “I do.”

A GREENBUILT HOME

Your home is your greatest asset. Not only is it a great place to build financial stability for your family, but it is also the setting for your life. You spend most of your time there, and when you choose your home, you choose the environment in which you and your family will live.

So, choosing the right home is important. For a home to build equity, it should be built well and have low maintenance costs. It should also be designed and decorated with longevity in mind, ensuring that the resale value of the home is protected and you have a home of which you can be proud.

Besides these considerations, however, is the health and safety of a home. If you are in the market to buy a home, how to ensure that it is built to the highest standard of high performance, low environmental impact, and using the highest standard of air and water quality available is of the utmost importance.

If only there was a way to ensure that your home was built up to these highest of standards… and there is! The Coastal Bend Green Built initiative began several years ago to certify homes as “green” according to a rigorous checklist point system, which measures green building in seven areas: Site, Materials and Resource Efficiency, Energy Efficiency (and Alternative Energy Sources), Water Efficiency, Indoor Air Quality

(A Healthy Home), Moisture Control, Homeowner Education, and Global Impact Statement.

A home with this certification ensures the buyer that the indoor air is clean; the paint, flooring, and cabinetry are free of harmful emissions, and the home is energy and water efficient, drastically reducing maintenance costs. A Greenbuilt home has a low carbon footprint and low environmental impact, providing for a more sustainable way of living in the Coastal Bend. Since these standards are becoming increasingly important to buyers, a Greenbuilt home is also an excellent investment.

So if you’re wondering how to live in a home that is both beautiful, a good investment, healthy, and environmentally friendly, check out the Coastal Bend Green Built program at https://coastalbendgreenbuilt.org/ or tour one of our fully furnished Model Homes in Rancho Vista, The Village at Rancho Vista North, The Village at Rancho Vista South, The Cottages at the Park, in Tuloso-Midway at Royal Oaks and in Portland at the Northshore Country Club. Our models are open from 11am – 6pm, or by appointment, whenever it’s convenient for you. For maps and additional info, please visit us at www.braseltonhomes.com

See you in the neighborhood… 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. 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 Green Built Initiative, Bay Area Smart Growth, and the Police Foundation. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Development Corporation, the United 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 ECF Community Center, and the Food Bank.

BART BRASELTON

LIPS, LINES & LOVE!

or Juvederm. Are you bothered by fine lines and wrinkles? Reduce those unwanted lines and wrinkles for a more youthful appearance with Dysport or Botox. Love is in the air so why not love the way you look this Valentineʼs Day!

Dr. Vijay

Dr. Cassidy Wright Hinojosa grew up in San Antonio, Texas and attended Texas A&M University for both her undergraduate and medical degrees. She completed training in Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Missouri in Columbia, where she trained with some of the leaders within the field of Plastic surgery. Dr. Cassidy is a board eligible Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.

Movement as Medicine

STUDIO BE’S HEAD-TO-TOE TEACHINGS AIM TO IMPROVE STRENGTH, FLEXIBILITY, AND POSTURE

BY: ALEXIS HARBORTH PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Located in the scenic Gaslight Square is Pilates Studio Be, a fitness studio whose numerous classes are each grounded in the fundamental Pilates principles of centering, breathing, precision, and control.

The founder and owner of Studio Be is Mariah McQueen, a licensed GYROTONIC® trainer, certified Pilates instructor, and physical therapist. She has been working in the world of rehab and Pilates for more than 20 years, and opened her first Pilates studio in 2001 to share the healing art of Pilates, which helped transform her life and health.

“I have scoliosis and found that Pilates was so much better for my body than other activities,” she says. “With my physical therapy background, I decided to go into Pilates-based rehab after experiencing how beneficial it is.”

Her dream has now grown to be a fitness and wellness center with a robust calendar of sessions led by a total of five licensed instructors. Each week, they hold more than 40 classes, which include an apparatus class, muscle therapy, power Pilates, and more. Each of Studio Be’s classes are centralized around foundational core concepts.

“There are primary Pilates principles that everything is centered around. The principles include breath, centering, fluidity, control, precision, integration, intuition, and concentration,” McQueen says. By performing short sets of 4-8 repetitions of each exercise, up to 40-50 exercises may be incorporated into a single Pilates session. “This way, no muscle groups are overworked or over-trained,” she explains. They also offer classes based in The GYROTONIC® Method, which is like Pilates with a twist – literally.

“Whereas Pilates tends to have a more linear component, The GYROTONIC® Method is based on patterns of rotation and spiraling.”

McQueen also ensures that each class leverages a person’s core to help them carry out the series of strengthening and leaning moves. The studio has Pilates reformer machines, which uses a person’s body weight and the machine’s springs to create resistance and a challenging workout.

“A reformer is a moveable carriage with spring-loaded resistance. You are working with the springs of the machine to help guide you through the motions. It not only guides you, but also adds resistance to make you stronger. It’s a type of resistance training without weights,” she says. “If you are kneeling or standing on the carriage, you need concentration, control, precision, and fluidity to maintain balance. Every element of the Pilates repertoire is incorporating some form of core stability. Even if you are working your legs, you are also working your abs.”

When it comes to what she wants attendees to experience in her classes, McQueen hopes for joy and enhanced well-being. “Movement is medicine,” she says.

As the saying goes: If you love what you do, you never work a day in your life. “It’s never boring. I’ve been doing this for 20 years, and I’m still inspired,” McQueen says.

Contact: 1020 Santa Fe St, Corpus Christi, TX 78404 361.884.2673 | pilatesstudiobe.com

go-to WELLNESS TIPS WASHINGTON'S sierra

HOW A REFINED BEAUTY ROUTINE CAN HELP YOU CUT OUT UNNECESSARY CLUTTER AND FOCUS ON WHAT YOUR SKIN AND BODY REALLY NEED

BY: SIERRA WASHINGTON

I feel like I got started at this “adult” thing pretty early. I started working a 9-to-5 job in live music at age 19, and almost 5 years later, I’m 23 and own two businesses in social media marketing and e-commerce. I’ve always had this entrepreneurial spirit in me, so it makes sense that I ended up here! Between my work and personal life, I’m pretty much always cramming 20 things into one day, which usually gives me a very limited time for makeup and skincare. I’ve learned over the past few years to refine my routines in ways that work for me, and accentuate my favorite feature, which is my skin. It’s definitely taken me a few years to figure out what works for me, but this past year, I was really able to refine my routines and find products that are both proven to work, and affordable. Affordability is a big thing for me in my everyday life. (Thanks for raising me to be frugal, Dad!)

PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Clinique Moisture Surge 72-Hour Auto-Replenishing Hydrator

My mom used to be (and still is) obsessed with Clinique, so this was the first moisturizer that I ever used. No matter how many moisturizers I try, I ALWAYS come back to this. It just works, and it works so well. This is definitely one of the pricier skincare products I buy, but a 2.5oz tub of this stuff lasts me a long time, because you only need the teeniest amount for it to work its magic.

Product available online or in-store at Ulta $54

KOSE SOFTYMO Speedy Cleansing Oil

Throw all of your makeup removing wipes in the trash. I know most of us grew up using Neutrogena wipes, but hear me out for a second. I came across this product when researching Korean skincare, and this cleansing oil ticks all the boxes for me. It’s unbelievably cheap, will take all of your makeup off in less than 15 seconds, and lasts a really long time. I use this almost every day and after a year, the bottle is still not empty.

Product available online at Amazon $9

It Cosmetics Bye Bye Foundation Full Coverage Moisturizer with SPF 50+

I used to really cake on the concealer and foundation, but since I started taking care of my skin, I mostly just need a light formula with SPF that can cover some of the redness around my nose. This foundation does all of that – and as a bonus, it has hyaluronic acid, which is one of my favorite moisturizing ingredients! When applied with a beauty blender, you can barely tell this stuff is there.

Product available online or in-store at Ulta $36

Cut Down on Sugar

It’s been about one year since I cut out refined sugars from my diet, and I’ve never felt better. Sugar just makes me feel so sluggish! That’s why I made the decision initially, and my skin has definitely benefited from it, as well. Two natural sugar substitutes I use on a regular basis (mostly for my morning coffee and the occasional banana bread) are raw agave nectar and stevia. Bonus tip: making a vodka soda with La Croix is incredibly delicious.

Personal Advice

Fenty Beauty Killawatt Highlighter in Mean Money/Hu$tla Baby

These shades are the perfect, natural look for my skin tone. I don’t want to be seen from across the room, but I do like to have that,

“I’ve been busy drinking water and minding my business” type of glow. I put this on my cheekbones and on the bridge of my nose for an effortless-looking finish to my everyday makeup routine. Definitely use it with a light hand, though, because it’s easy to get carried away with how pigmented this stuff is.

Product available online or in-store at Ulta $39

Neutrogena Hydro Boost

Exfoliating Cleanser

My absolute favorite cleanser! I’ve tried so many throughout the years and felt like I finally hit the jackpot when I found this one. Harsh exfoliating scrubs have always irritated my skin, and most of them actually make me break out. This one is gentle, smells great, and has clean ingredients. Pro tip: before buying a new beauty product, go to cosdna.com and see how safe its ingredients are.

Product available online or in-store at H-E-B $8

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%

I had never used any type of serum before I began researching multi-step skincare routines. I Googled “serums for oily skin,” since

that is one of my main issues, and stumbled upon this. The niacinamide helps with congestion and enlarged pores, while the zinc helps to balance sebum (AKA oil) production. If you’re wanting to include a serum in your routine, look up The Ordinary – they are so affordable, and so good. Most of the serums are less than $9.

Product available online at Ulta $5.90

Heritage

Store Aura Smudge Aromatherapy

Spray Blend

I’m gonna get a little woo-woo on y’all for a second. I consider myself a spiritual person, and fully believe in surrounding yourself with positive energy. I purchased this Aura Blend at T.J.Maxx early last year, but never really used it until my grandma got really ill during the second half of the year. I went through a lot of emotions during that time – sadness, anxiety, being overwhelmed, etc. During this time, I started misting my room with this spray before I went to sleep to help get rid of any negative energies I was carrying with me and may have brought home. But, even if you don’t believe in all of that stuff – it smells amazing!

Product available online at Amazon.com $13

Edith Rojas, D.D.S.

Dr. Edith Rojas is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, she is credentialed with the medical staff at Driscoll Children’s Hospital. Her professional affiliations include the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association. Her passion is to provide the best quality dental care to infants, children, and adolescents including special needs children.

HOME & GARDEN

Designed by local architect Walter Wisznia, this 1950s abode is a masterpiece of a home. Sallie Ohmsteade and her family have made the house their own with pops of color, beautiful works of art, and tons of natural light.

ARCHITECTURAL WORK OFART

AN AESTHETICALLY PLEASING CONTEMPORARY DESIGN IN A DESIRABLE NEIGHBORHOOD CREATES THE PERFECT LIVING SPACE

BY: JAQUELINE GONZALEZ PHOTOS BY: JASON PAGE

cean Drive is known for its prestigious homes and stunning views of Corpus Christi’s waterfront. A 1950s architectural real estate masterpiece, designed by renowned local architect Walter Wisznia, is no exception to the beauty this area has to offer. After learning from a friend that the two-story stucco structure would be on the market soon, Sallie Ohmsteade visited and fell in love with the spacious property. The extensive floor plan, along with its close proximity to great schools, created the perfect location for Sallie to build her dream home with her husband and their three sons.

Originally a midcentury modern design with a gorgeous layout, the home required some improvements to become the family’s own. This would be quite the undertaking, and not for lack of trying. Sallie has built homes from the floor up – but this time, she would gut and rebuild an existing structure, which presented many challenges.

The results are nothing short of magnificent, and during the tour of the house, the many eye-catching elements in the home made it difficult to find one spot to focus on. Our visit took place on a heavily rainy day, and the large floorto-ceiling windows provided a beautifully artistic setting, and undoubtedly, one of my favorite features in the house. The windows not only present a natural aesthetic, they also add a contemporary touch to the family room.

Sallie pulled out all the stops to create a backyard area perfect for entertaining friends and family, or simply to enjoy a relaxing day. Through the before mentioned picturesque

5017 s A rAtog A C orpus C hristi , tX 361-692-2177

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1812 s tAte h wy 361 s uite A p ort A rA ns A s , tX 361-749-2266

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M ention this A d & R eceive 5% o ff check out ou R ne W L OCATION

windows, you’ll see a screened-in porch that creates a bridge between the indoor and outdoor space, providing the feeling of being inside while still enjoying the view and avoiding harsh weather. She added a pool house, complete with a shower and a bathroom, in the backyard to complement the sparkling blue 14-foot-deep swimming pool. To the side, the lush green garden houses an orchard with fruit trees, allowing easy access to fresh fruits and vegetables, and adding a pop of color to the garden.

en. The bar originally came from the popular old Town Club several years ago, and was simply a pile of wood with a large hunk of copper. Sallie choseing to tone down the amount of copper on display, thus creating a sleek and

Sallie and her husband love art, and they have an excellent array found throughout the home. The majority of the artwork is from local artist Abbey Keel, known for her love of color and abstract art techniques. Other pieces are created by artists in San Antonio, Houston, Massachusetts, New York, and Colorado. A wall-sized Eastern European creation that had extensive water damage and took two years to restore is one of the statelier pieces. The restoration is flawless, and provides a majestic view to the crossover between the living and family rooms.

Inside, the galley kitchen design provides a streamlined layout to a small space, allowing for optimal mobility. The combination of the crisp white shade of the cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless-steel appliances, and gray tile backsplash creates a clean, clutter-free environment. In the dining area, a combination of old and new adds the perfect touch to the area. The oval wooden table, a family heirloom, pairs nicely with contemporary dining chairs, and provides artistic value to the area. -

Artistic value continues through the choices and placement of furniture and decor. The family room offers a fresh, vibrant color scheme with plush blue chairs sitting atop a multi-colored rug in geometric shapes, while the living room provides a warmer touch with taupe couches, leopard print low-seating chairs, and a multi-colored rug in deep shades of burgundy and cream. A masculine touch is presented throughout the home in the form of hunting trophies.

Last, but not least, a unique teen hangout space allows Sallie’s three sons to have the perfect space to relax and unwind. The room is properly equipped with gaming consoles, a locker room, and a comfortable couch to provide the perfect “boys’ cave.” As an added bonus, the refrigerator is right around the corner, which allows the boys easy access to snacks.

The entire transformation of the home was carefully thought out, and although some challenges presented themselves along the way, Sallie and her husband did a wonderful job adapting a unique historic structure and creating a flexible living space that works for their tastes.

Plant tomatoes after February 15. Grow in well-composted, welldrained soil. Space at 36”. Bury transplants 2/3 of the way into the ground. Each of the hairs down the stem is a potential root, and a vigorous root system makes a more prolific plant. Dust the leaves with horticultural corn meal (from a local feed store) to prevent the fungal diseases that cause yellow or black spots on tomato leaves.

The sweetness and flavor of tomatoes are determined by the amount of natural potassium in the soil. Potassium helps transfer glucose from the plant to the fruit. Wood ash from native trees is the best way to add potassium and other minerals. Pour several handfuls of native wood ash into the hole when planting. Also, add several handfuls of crushed oyster shells to provide calcium, which helps prevent blossom end rot.

GROWING THE SWEETEST TOMATOES IN TOWN

BY: JUSTIN BUTTS

PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Tomatoes are native to the lush, cool, rainy mountains of Peru. Hernan Cortez was the first European to taste tomatoes when he encountered the Aztec Empire in 1519. Cortez sent tomato plants home to Spain, and they quickly spread around the world.

The French called tomatoes "love apples" because they believed them to be an aphrodisiac. However, early American colonists mistakenly thought tomatoes were poisonous – they called them "wolf peaches.” Ironically, Americans, so close to the Aztec heartland, were the last people in the world to adopt tomatoes after President Thomas Jefferson popularized them in the U.S.

Tomatoes are difficult to grow in the hot, dry weather of the Coastal Bend. The typical tomato plant nationally yields between 5 to 20 pounds of fruit. But these techniques will help you produce more than 50 pounds of ripe, red tomatoes from each of the plants in your garden!

First, select tomato varieties that mature quickly (Early Girl) and others that thrive in the heat of summer (Solar Fire, Heatwave). This provides early season production and extends yields through the heat of the long summer. The smaller the variety (Juliette, Super Sweet 100), the easier they are to grow.

Shoddy, concentric-ring trellises will likely collapse under the weight of the healthy plants grown with these techniques. Use sections of hog panel wired to metal t-posts, or a similar sturdy structure, to hold up your vigorous vines.

Most importantly, mulch your tomato plants thickly (up to 12 inches or deeper!) with native leaf mulch. An ultra-thick layer of leaf mulch keeps the soil cool and enables your plants to bear fruit in the hottest weather. Tomato production and plant health increases with each inch of native leaf mulch applied.

LOCAL RECS

"Nothing beats a fresh picked off the vine ripe tomato, especially from your own back yard. My two favorite heirloom varieties of recent seasons are the Cherokee purple and green zebra. They are bursting with both vibrant colors and delicious flavor. They have so many possibilities, but sliced with some buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil is my go to."

- Christian Bernard, @sugarbakersbistro

FUN FACTS

Use companion planting to strengthen and protect tomatoes. Plant four collard plants and/or a dozen marigolds around the base of each tomato. Collards emit an odor that repels bad insects from your tomatoes, while marigolds repel nematodes. As a bonus, you’ll be able to enjoy plenty of greens and gorgeous flowers all summer!

Distinctive Landscapes Start Here...

Landscape Design & Installation, Stonework & Hardscapes, Outdoor Kitchens, Poolscapes & Patios, Sprinkler Systems & Drainage Systems, Nursery, Stone & Boulder

Design & Installation, Stonework & Hardscapes, Outdoor Kitchens, Poolscapes & Patios, Sprinkler Systems & Drainage Systems, Nursery, Stone & Boulder Yard

In Mixed Company

BY: KATY JONES-GULSBY

PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

What better way to celebrate the coming spring than with a boozy brunch with friends? Throwing together a quick table for a casual meal shouldn’t be something you agonize about. I’m a firm believer in using items that speak to you on some sort of visceral level; you shouldn’t be afraid to experiment.

I am endlessly inspired by Bloomsbury-era England in the first half of the 20th century, populated by creatives like painters Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant.

Charleston House, the farmhouse retreat of the Bloomsbury group, is an icon of their colorful, playful style. Bell and Grant painted every available surface in riotous frescoes; no wall, door, or piece of furniture was safe. The result is a perfect mix of traditional English farmhouse style, mixed with the freethinking, experimental artwork the Bloomsbury group is famous for. It’s a beautiful combination and one that is easy to take inspiration from using vintage and artisan-made pieces.

A PLACE AT THE TABLE

My favorite way to create this look is to hunt for hand-painted dishes. I’ve amassed an incredible collection of serving dishes and tableware from local shops, and it’s so fun to mix and match patterns and styles to create a layered look.

A densely patterned tablecloth is one of the easiest ways to elevate a table. Think about contrasting colors and patterns; I chose this geometric clay-pink pattern to contrast with the painterly blue pattern of the Gien dishes.

One of the most overlooked aspects of a table is the cutlery. I recommend having a second set of flatware that you use for special occasions. The set doesn’t have to be “fancy,” but should bring you pleasure and isn’t the usual utilitarian set.

I am a hopeless florist. When there’s no time or desire to buy a centerpiece, the easiest and most inexpensive way to bring greenery to a table is to place small plants in terracotta pots. This grouping of ivy was under $10.

q get the look

“Oiseau Bleu Fruits” Gien Salad Plates, “Filet Bleu” Gien Dinner Plates from Hanley Wood . Mexican Hand-Blown Water Tumblers from Pilar Lifestyles Bamboo Flatware, Yellow Coupes, Painted Bowls, and Stone Fruit - Vintage from the author’s personal collection, all sourced locally. Similar items can be found at Red Crow Antique Mall

OUT & ABOUT

ARTS & CULTURE 74 DISCOVERIES 76 CELEBRATION 78 DATEBOOK 80 SOCIAL HOUR 82

to be

Local musician Lakeita Valon is a definite force

reckoned with. Her first solo endeavor, BPM: Verano, beautifully mixes electronic and soulful sounds to create an album everyone needs to stream.

LOCAL MUSICIAN LAKEITA VALON MARCHES TO THE BEAT OF HER OWN 808

BY: STEVEN HARRISON

PHOTOS BY:

LEVI GUZMAN

When Lakeita Valon writes a song, she starts with a voice memo: singing, freestyling, exploring different melodies, experimenting with beats, and expressing herself in each recording.

“I want you to understand me through my music,” Valon says, “to feel how I felt when I wrote it.”

We’re treated to that raw authenticity and personality in the summery sounds of Lakeita’s recently released debut solo album, BPM: Verano. The assortment of smooth vocals, poetic interludes, and Latin-inspired beats introduces audiences to the musical prowess of Lakeita Valon as a onewoman-band.

And solo means solo. Valon performed, mixed, and mastered the entirety of the album herself, with a combination of songs written over the course of nearly two and a half years.

She released her first solo single, “Breathe,” in 2017. After solidifying a streamable presence online with another single thereafter, Valon decided it was time to pursue the release of a full-length album.

BPM: Verano is a delight of fun, warm tunes with contagious rhythms that you’ll inevitably bob your head to, whether it’s the catchy and clever crowd favorite “Pink Starburst” or the bilingual lyrical groove of “Leaves.” The worst part of the album is the realization that there isn’t yet another Lakeita Valon solo project to stumble upon once you’re a fan.

But there’s another album well on its way. Whereas she considers her debut genre electronic soul, Valon's looking to experiment with conscious rap over coffee shop vibes for the next

one, drawing inspiration from artists Mos Def and Wu-Tang Clan, as well as local coffee shop Roasted.

“The last album was more of an introduction – very light, very playful,” Valon says. “This one’s gonna be very sexy, more conscious.”

“I’m gonna dig deeper than I did on the last album.”

Although her streamable solo presence is fairly new, she’s been writing music since she was 13. After high school, Valon moved from Katy, Texas to study music at TAMU-CC. It was in Corpus that her career began to take off, singing with funky local band Somethin’ Silky as well as her own, Venus Lily. Over time, she’s gone from being known as “the girl from Somethin’ Silky” to being recognized and remembered as her own musical force: Lakeita Valon.

Her first solo gig came accidentally when the Exchange looked to book her band for a show: the band wasn’t available, but Lakeita was. Before then, she hadn’t performed publicly on her own.

Lakeita’s live performances are even more engaging than her recordings; she wants audiences to enjoy listening to her as much as she enjoys performing, and with her stage presence and personality, it’s impossible not to.

“I don’t want my listeners to be scared,” Valon says. “If you’re gonna chill, then chill hard. If you’re gonna dance, then break it down!”

Despite her playful tone and lively demeanor, audiences should take her solo entrance to the music scene seriously. Her raw musical talent, creative ear, and extraordinary charisma make for an entertaining and refreshing listening experience through all her music. Listeners are left wanting more when they hear Lakeita Valon, and it’s a relief to know there’s more to come.

Contact: spotify.com/lakeitavalon | @valonista

Individuality & Female Empowerment

BY: JACQUELINE GONZALEZ PHOTOS

If you’re a fan of Frida Kahlo, you’ll be happy to know that a new pop-up shop, paying homage to Kahlo’s life and quintessential imagination, opened up on Alameda Street just off Antique Lane. The Frida Store carries an assortment of Frida-inspired items from places like Europe, London, Spain, and Italy.

Frida Kahlo was a Mexican painter, who became famous for her dark self-portraits inspired by nature and Mexican artifacts. Her rebellious behavior towards the societal norms of her time earned Kahlo popularity harnessed by feminism and a championing fight for individuality.

When Catherine Vega, owner of The Frida Store, became interested in opening a Mexican import store in Miami, Florida, friends quickly mentioned that having Frida Kahlo items in her store was a must. The shock value of Vega’s initial reaction to Kahlo’s work prompted her to seek out more information. After meeting with Beatrice, a relative of Kahlo, Vega learned of an entire world dominated by Frida, her artwork, and her warrior-like presence. Her interest was piqued – and after many meetings with the Frida Corporation, Vega quickly learned that an online and storefront presence was missing. Although the

RACHEL BENAVIDES

corporation was not on board with opening a permanent storefront location at the time, Vega suggested pop-up shops, and her new venture began. Creating pop-up shops as a starting point provided a doorway to bring in many of these exclusive new brands – some of which have never been sold in the United States.

Vega and her business partner, Jennifer Sanchez, hold the official license for The Frida Store – a unique license that allows them to import merchandise from all around the world and sell it in the United States.

Although the corporation is in Miami, events like Frida Fest, which brings in over 35,000 people, are held in Texas. During their travels to Texas, Catherine and Jennifer felt the passion and desire for cultural growth in Corpus Christi, and decided the Coastal Bend would be the perfect place for their storefront.

The shop successfully embraces Frida’s love of color, culture, and individuality through the artfully arranged displays of clothing, home décor, dolls, jewelry, housewares, and beauty products, many of them limited edition items. “We carry a variety of merchandise, but we don’t

BY:

HOW A LOCAL SHOP HONORS FRIDA KAHLO BY EMBRACING HER LEGACY

Fans are welcome anytime, even after store hours.

Catherine and Jennifer are known to keep their doors open later for fans visiting after hours, providing them a comforting place to talk and relax after a long day.

The shop is only a pop-up for now , but with enough foot traffic, it could very well become a permanent fixture in the Coastal Bend.

carry any of her artwork,” explains Vega. “Her artwork is part of the national treasure, and when it sells, royalties are paid to the Mexican government to pay for vaccines and healthcare, as requested by Frida’s family and Diego Rivera, her lover.” Although the shop does not carry the artwork, Kahlo’s image lights up through every image and every story shared by fans.

Not only is the shop overflowing in culture and color, it also encourages female empowerment in the Coastal Bend. Together, Vega, Sanchez, and Sanchez’s daughter, Anna Garcia, are helping spread Frida’s message by providing a sanctuary for women to embrace their culture, individuality, and love of art.

Vega enjoys interacting with each person who walks through her doors as she proudly states, “We don’t have customers; we have fans!” Many women relate to Kahlo and embrace who she was and what she stood for, and The Frida Store is the perfect place to release that energy. After all, “there is only one Frida, there is only one Frida store.”

Contact:

4407 S Alameda St., Corpus Christi, TX | thefridastore.net

modern romance

BY: JO ANNE HOWELL

PHOTOS BY: GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

parting words

The beautiful bride and groom wanted a modern and romantic wedding inside their church. The celebration was filled with Art Deco inspired lines and geometric shapes seen through out the décor and the printed materials. From gorgeous bouquets featuring anemones to tasty charcuterie spreads, this was a night filled with love that the guests will never forget.

Bouquets of anemones, white roses, and various greenery were placed inside gold geometric prisms for the bridesmaids to carry down the aisle. This brought a fresh take to the tradition.

Setting the scene was key when it came to this wedding. In an effort to curate a dreamy and contemporary feeling, we piled various rugs, pillows, and candles along the aisle and altar. The couple stood in front of a gorgeous golden geometric backdrop that brought the theme together.

Delicious spreads of assorted cheeses , fruits, and meats were dispersed throughout the reception area for guests to enjoy. Various desserts were also ready for guests to pick and choose from throughout the evening.

School

of

RhetoRic

for Students in Grades 9 -12

Opening for the 2020-2021 school year, this state-of-the-art high school will be the only accredited, non-denominational high school in Corpus Christi. Annapolis Christian Academy provides a college-preparatory education from a Biblical world-view. We combine Christ-centered curriculum with time-tested methods and content in an academically rigorous and nurturing community. The results are remarkably well-equipped scholars who are able to think critically, reason wisely, articulate persuasively, and positively impact the world for God’s glory.

67% of ACA Faculty hold advanced degrees in the field they teach. That allows our faculty the opportunity to teach college dual-credit classes on our own campus.

EVENTS TO KNOW

COMMUNITY

Putti Good: A Special February Art Exhibition February 7th

This special exhibition over at K Space Studios will kick off their 25th Anniversary exhibition year schedule! “Putti Good” is more than just good, it’s pretty spectacular! This special show will feature a number of local artists who will handcraft artworks especially for this show, in a variety of media based on the idea of “putti” or better known as the “cherub” or “Cupid.” Make sure to stop by the show while out during February’s First Friday Art Walk!

K Space Art Studios, 415 Starr St.

COMMUNITY

Corpus Christi Home & Garden Show February 7th

This annual Coastal Bend event is perfect for any home owner looking for inspiration or help with a project! The 21st Annual Corpus Christi Home & Garden Show will feature builders, remodelers, contractors, building materials, and other experts to help you turn your home and garden dreams into a reality!

American Bank Center, 1901 N Shoreline

ARTS

2020 Corpus Christi Songwriters Festival February 14th

The 2020 Corpus Christi Songwriters Festival, Music, Awards and Conference will feature international, national, and regionally renowned songwriters. During this three-day event, guests will attend various concerts, workshops, and other songwriting events filled with inspiration. Events will simultaneously take place in both downtown and in town, giving festival-goers the opportunity to see all that our beautiful city has to offer. 402 Peoples St. #1A

FESTIVAL

Whooping Crane Festival 2020 February 20th

This epic festival is back for its 24th year! Taking place in Port Aransas, Texas, the Whooping Crane Festival of 2020 is expected to be a record winter for the cranes! As the rarest of cranes and one of the most endangered birds in the world, the festival is a must-attend event. The weekend will feature speaker Dr. George Archibald, Co-Founder of the International Crane Foundation, along with representatives from the Wood Buffalo National Park, boat tours, and more. Mustang Island

COMMUNITY

Barefoot Mardi Gras Parade February 22nd

This Coastal Bend tradition is one unlike any other! A beachy and unique Mardi Grad experience, the Barefoot Mardi Gras Parade takes place on Padre Island and is fun for the whole family. Immediately after the parade, join in on the festival fun with food, live entertainment, and more! All proceeds from this event support the Island Charter Schools and Big Brothers Big Sisters. Padre Island, Corpus Christi 78418

BENEFIT

16th Annual Mardi Gras Ball and Casino Night February 22nd

Join the Sparkling City Evening Rotary for the 16th Annual Mardi Gras Ball and Casino Event! This awesome Corpus Christi tradition features a night filled with music, dancing, masquerade, casino games, and more. The event serves as the Event Rotary Club’s biggest fundraiser of the year and supports the Community in Schools and CASA of the Coastal Bend organzations. Omni Bayfront Hotel, 900 N Shoreline

Charity League Style Show

1. Haley Bennett and Blair Turnbull 2. Michelle Wiesel and Karen Dillinger 3. Jennifer Meares and Emily Veazey

4. Margie Durst, Carrie Gilley, Elena Payne, and Kristen Sterett 5. Samantha Gates, Blair Turnbull, and Lindsey Pietsch

6. Mary Catherine Ocker and Katie Urban

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Is your child nervous about the dentist? If the answer is yes, then you will be happy to meet Scout, Kennedy Dental Care’s very own therapy dog. Scout’s job is to take the edge off of nervous and uncertain patients or parents. She will place her head on your child’s lap, climb onto the dental chair, or offer her soft fur to calm your child’s nerves.

“Scout knew I needed a little extra comfort for my visit and laid with me to calm me down.” -- Heather, 7

La Posada North End Parade

1. Cris Forney and Chuck Forney

Harold Shockley and Pearl Pham 3. Mike Hughes and Jody Hughes

4. Javier Wiley, Eva Espinosa, Debby Seefeldt, and Doug Seefeldt 5. Rosie Torres, Christie Fortey, and Marissa Munoz

6. John Niro and Lynn Niro 7. Jean Whipple and Dave Gillete

Gail Morris and Christie Fortey

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Kenneth Gonzales D.D.S., P.L.L.C.

Heather L. Gonzalez, D.D.S.

CUISINE

CHOOSE YOUR TOPPINGS

THREE DIFFERENT BRATS FOR ANY MOOD, GATHERING, AND PALATE

BY: KAYLA & JUSTIN BUTTS

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Ryan Keller is a master of his craft. He produces the most extraordinary ingredients – pork, beef, chicken, and more, and it is not easy work.

Turkey Hollow Farm is located in the black soil and green grass of Cuero, Texas. Keller works the farm with his wife Krystle and sons Aiden and Jett. He pioneered his own farm to create a wholesome lifestyle for his family around the ideal of growing the best possible food.

The Kellers live this ideal every morning – walking to the fields before sunrise through the dew-soaked grass, shaking off sleep, starting the thousand chores of the day. They spend the days, whether blistering hot or frosty cold, herding cattle to new ranges for fresh grass; moving chicken flocks to new pastures, lush with weeds and bugs; and tending their prized boars, sows, and piglets.

Much time is devoted to raising their porkers in the dark forests of Turkey Hollow Farm. The porkers roam the countryside eating acorns, brush, roots, and all manner of native foodstuffs. This natural diet creates a product that rivals the Iberian pork of Spain, except not so famous. Instead, it is completely local.

The Kellers’ passion for farming fits perfectly with our passion for ingredients. Ryan’s work is dirty, difficult, exhausting, and often dangerous (try separating a 900-pound boar from a sow in season). But this work of the farmer makes our time in the kitchen simple and easy.

Extraordinary ingredients create extraordinary meals. These brats from Turkey Hollow Farm are so delicious, we only need to cook them simply, bake some quick homemade rolls, and add toppings. It is that easy to have the best brats of your life. We offer three toppings here to suit any brat mood.

Turkey Hollow Farm sells original and spicy brats, breakfast sausage, Italian sausage, amazing link sausage, cured bacon, rasher bacon, smoked ham steaks, and even smoked ham hocks! They have pork chops, ground pork, pork spare ribs, and ham steaks. In addition to this amazing pork selection, Turkey Hollow Farm offers a full selection of grass-fed beef, from T-bones to roasts to ground beef. They also offer chicken, lamb, and goat. Did we mention they are hard-working people?

You can find Turkey Hollow Farm at the Corpus Christi Down town Farmers’ Market every Wednesday from 5-8pm.

Call Ryan and Krystle at 361-550-5980 or look up Turkey Hollow Farm on Facebook and check out the beautiful photographs and farm updates. To see their full list of products or to place an order, visit their website at turkeyhollowfarm.grazecart.com.

Bratwurst Dogs with Homemade Buns

Makes 8

PREP TIME: 15 minutes

IN-ACTIVE PREP TIME : 2 hours

COOK TIME: 45 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

2 packages Turkey Hollow Farm Original Brats

BUNS:

4 cups all-purpose flour

2 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp quick rise yeast

1 1/2 tsp salt

2 cups milk

2 tbsp butter, room temperature.

DIRECTIONS:

In a standing mixer or large bowl combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt and mix well. Add milk and butter and knead with the dough hook attachment or with your hands for 5 minutes, until a soft dough is formed. Place in an oiled bowl and cover with a tea towel. Let rise for one hour, until doubled in size. Remove dough from the bowl and cut into eight equal pieces. Shape each piece into a batard and place on a baking sheet ½ inch apart. Cover the buns with the tea towel and let rise an additional hour.

Preheat oven to 375°F. Place a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, cook brats on each side for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown. Add 1 1/2 cups of water to skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 15 minutes, or until brats are cooked through. Once oven is preheated, cook buns for 20 minutes, rotating baking sheet after ten minutes. Remove from oven and let cool on a cooling rack. Cut open the center of each bun and place brat inside. Your brats are ready to dress.

Brats with Sauerkraut and Bacon Aioli

VARIATION 1:

SAUERKRAUT: In a large clean bowl, combine a head of shredded cabbage with 2 tablespoons salt. Using a potato masher or your hands, knead and squeeze the cabbage for 10 minutes, until its juices are released. Add 1 tablespoon caraway seeds. Place mixture in a clean mason jar and press down to remove air. Cover with one whole cabbage leaf and seal with a cheesecloth fastened with a rubber band. Let ferment at 60-70 degrees for at least three days. Store in the refrigerator for up to 6 months.

BACON AIOLI: Crumble 3 slices of cooked bacon and set aside. In a food processor, pulse 2 cloves garlic with a generous pinch of salt. Add 1 large egg yolk and 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard. While the food processor is on, slowly drizzle olive oil (about 1/2-2/3 cup) into the feed tube of the food processor until a thick, creamy consistency results. Stir in bacon crumbles.

TO ASSEMBLE: Slather a tablespoon of spicy mustard on each brat dog, followed by a tablespoon of aioli, and top with 1/4-1/3 cup sauerkraut.

Tex-Mex Brats

VARIATION 2:

QUESO: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 diced onion, 1 minced jalapeno, and 2 cloves minced garlic seasoned with a pinch of salt, sauteeing until translucent. Add 1 cup whole milk, plus 1 cup heavy cream. Stirring frequently, add 12 ounces each sharp cheddar and white American cheese. Add 1/4 tsp cumin, if desired.

PICO DE GALLO: In a medium bowl, combine 4 vine-ripened tomatoes, 1 minced jalapeno, 1/4 cup chopped onion, 3 cloves minced garlic, 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, the juice of one lime, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir until well incorporated.

GUACAMOLE: In a medium bowl, mash 3 ripened avocados with the juice of one lime, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp cumin, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir in 1/2 cup diced onion, 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes, and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro.

TO ASSEMBLE: Ladle 1/4 cup of queso on each brat, followed by a heaping spoonful of guac, topping with a heaping spoonful of pico.

Korean Brats

VARIATION 3:

QUICK KIMCHI: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup shredded cabbage, 2 large carrots that have been shredded, 3 diced green onions, 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean pepper flakes), and 2 tsp salt with 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup rice wine vinegar. Stir to combine well and refrigerate until ready to use. Store in the refrigerator and use for up to two weeks.

SWEET PEPPERS: Combine 1/2 cup sliced thai peppers with 1 tablespoon sugar and a pinch of salt in a large bowl. Cover with enough rice wine vinegar until mixture is submerged and stir until sugar is dissolved. Refrigerate until ready to use and store for up to 2 weeks.

SRIRACHA MUSTARD: Stir 1/4 cup yellow mustard and 2 tbsp sriracha until well combined.

TO ASSEMBLE: Spoon 1 tbsp sriracha mustard on each brat dog, followed by 1/4 cup kimchi and 2 tbsp sweet peppers.

on island time TEXAS WINE,

ISLAND WINE AIMS TO BRING FAVORITES AND HIDDEN GEMS FOR SIPPING

BY: JESSIE MONSIVAIS

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Deep in the heart of Port Aransas sits a quaint wine shop unique to the area. Bringing the taste of the Texas Wine Country to the Coastal Bend, Island Wine is helping locals and tourists alike to get their sip on.

Co-owner Lara White is a registered nurse, and along with working fulltime in Corpus Christi, she runs a boutique wine store offering wine on tap, by the glass, or by bottle, as well as wine tastings and a variety of Texas craft beer. The idea behind the business came from wishful thinking while sitting in a coffee shop.

“My friend and I went travel nursing for a couple of years and visited many wineries and breweries,” says White. “One day we were sitting in a coffee shop and said, ‘I wish they served wine.’ We liked the coffee shop atmosphere and there was nothing like it in Port Aransas, so we said, ‘Let’s do it.’”

Ninety-eight percent of Island Wine’s selection is Texas sourced, offering well-known favorites and “hidden gems” only found at Island Wine or the Texas winery itself. From wine on tap to beer and wine-based tequila, vodka, and rum, Island Wine is a one-stop shop for a fun and relaxing experience. Of course, if you get hungry while sipping, Island Wine offers small appetizers such as fruit and cheese boards or hummus dip.

Island Wine also sells Texas and beach themed gifts, making custom gift baskets or grab-and-go options. Entertainment at Island Wine is anything but lacking, featuring karaoke on Wednesdays, bingo on Thursdays, and live music on the weekends. The shop also hosts special events and wine tastings. Tastings are offered during the week and feature a different winery every week.

“With a tasting, you can sample 3-4 different wines and you get a stemless keepsake Island Wine glass,” says White. “I love being able to combine so many of my favorite things into one space – decorating, photography, the beach, live music, and supporting other small businesses and wine.”

Getting to meet locals and visitors in the area, talking about Texas wine, and sharing the love with other small businesses are a few of White’s favorite things about Island Wine.

“My main purpose was to have a place where you are welcomed as you walk in and remembered when you come back,” White says with a warm smile. “A place where you can come in and relax – with friends or alone. People feel like they are family at Island Wine.”

DINING GUIDE

AMERICAN

8TE $

A shabby chic interior that features classic comfort dishes with a modern twist! Serving brunch, lunch, and dinner. 1220 Airline Rd. #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

CITRUS BAYFRONT BISTRO $

Enjoy casual homestyle dishes with everything homemade, even down to the pie crusts, and all with a gorgeous view of the marina. 100 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 882-2047, Citrusbistro.com

EATS EPICUREA RESTAURANT + BAR $

Eats Epicurea takes a creative approach with inventive coastal cuisine and unique spins on Texas favorites all while overlooking the on-site Schlitterbahn Waterpark. 14353 Commodore Dr, (361) 589-4230

HAMLIN FOUNTAIN & GIFTS $

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. 3801 Staples St, (361) 853-7303, hamlinfg.com

HOEGEMEYER’S BBQ $$

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

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

LANCE'S BLACK SHEEP BISTRO $$

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

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

POETS FAMILY RESTAURANT $

A hidden gem among life-long locals, Poets is a family style restaurant serving up a wide array of delicious home cooking. You’ll be greeted with smiling faces, laughs, and of course their complimentary chips and salsa. 4825 Saratoga Blvd, (361) 993-2170

SURFSIDE SANDWICH SHOPPE $

CORPUS CHRISTI PADRE ISLAND

PORT ARANSAS

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

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) 8552927, facebook.com/TheBlueClove

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

THE POST $$

Enjoy this popular gastro-pub with delicious dishes that are meant to be shared, along side a beer or cocktail 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) 9920360, Facebook.com/town-country-cafe

ASIAN

AKA SUSHI $$

Creative and daring rolls that work well together. The authentic Asian cuisine is made by a masterful chef with scratch recipes that will blow your mind. 415 Water St, (361) 882-885, Facebook.com/akasushidowntowncc

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 cold appetizer then “plug in” for some rolls and sashimi! 15121 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 949-1110, Rockandrollssushi.com

SANG’S IMPERIAL CAFÉ $$

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

VIETNAM RESTAURANT $$$

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

Z COUNTER $

It is all about combining fusion concepts with the authentic flavors of famous street dishes from Asia, including Vietnam, Korea, Thailand, Singapore, China and more. 51220 Airline Rd #155, (361) 991-1115, z-counter.com

BAR&GRILL

BOATHOUSE BAR & GRILL $$

The best thing about the Boathouse Bar & Grill is that there’s something for everyone; a mouthwatering menu, full bars with HDTVs, all on waterfront patio dining. 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 $

The most beloved casual dive dining spot serving up the best in burgers, beer and live music. Make sure to stop by on Tuesday nights for $2 Pints! 1724 N Tancahua, (361) 884-2739, Brewsterstreet.net

FINS GRILL AND ICEHOUSE $$

For years they’ve featured fresh seafood, 1/2 lb. Angus beef burgers and delicious chicken dishes plus a full bar. They’re also home to the “You Hook ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” service for all the fisherman out there. 420 West Cotter, (361) 749-8646, Finsgrillandicehouse.com

CAFÉ

GREEN LIGHT COFFEE SOUTHSIDE $

A true triple threat, GLC Southside features a coffee shop, full bar, and delicious bakery in a trendy, casual atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends. 7426 S Staples St. #107, (361) 334-0194,facebook.com/greenlightcoffee

HESTERS CAFE $

This legendary local cafe and coffee bar serves up invintive breakfast and lunch dishes with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. 3812 S Alameda St, (361) 855-1892, hesterscafe.com

JB’S GERMAN BAKERY $

Committed to maintaining the highest German standard, every product is handmade following age-old German traditions and recipes. 15137 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-5474, Jbsgermanbakery.com

SUGARBAKERS $

Made from scratch French and European cuisine with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The perfect spot for a simple breakfast or lunch with the family. 2766 Santa Fe St, (361) 884-9541, sugarbakerscc.com

FRENCH

BIEN MÉRITÉ $

This female run bakery serves up sensational french inspired pastries, cakes, croissants, and more. Satisfy your cravings at this quaint, and beautifully appointed eatery. 1316 S Staples St, (361) 334-0241, bienmerite.com

DRAGONFLY $$$

A 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

ITALIAN

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 RISTORANTE E BOTTEGA $$

Comfortable and welcoming with a trattoria style authentic cuisine. You won’t find these delectable dishes anywhere else in Corpus Christi! Perfect spot for your next date night! 3815 S Alameda St, (361) 814-8998, Bellinostexas.com

HOUSE OF ROCK $

Top notch pizza and appetizers, cold beer, cocktails, and live entertainment! Does it get any better? 511 Starr St, (361) 882-7625, Texashouseofrock.ticketfly.com

LUCIANO'S $$

The chef’s recipes and experience, all with a genuine Italian flavor, crafted from traditional practices passed down through generations. 1821 S Alameda St, (361) 882-3191, lucianositalian.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

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

MEXICAN

FRESCO $

This downtown newcomer serves up Mexican fruit cups and antojitos to the on-the-go lunch crowd and bustling late-night scene. Stop by and get yourself a homemade Aguas Frescas, you can thank us later. 619 N Chaparral St, (361) 442-2253

HI-HO RESTAURANT $

One of the oldest, and most cherished taquerias in town, Hi-Ho’s is undoubtedly the go-to place for breakfast tacos. 3703 Morgan Ave, (361) 888-4992

LA PLAYA BY THE BAY $$

A vibrant, bi-level Tex-Mex eatery and full service bar in a contemporary, colorful space

with large outdoor seating right in the heart of downtown Corpus Christi. And that view! 227 N Water St, (361) 885-7702

RESTAURANT SAN JUAN $

A down-to-earth, colorful hacienda-themed atmosphere with an extensive Mexican menu, including whole fish, fajitas, and breakfast! 410 Cut-Off Rd, (361) 749-6521

ROSITA’S TACO SHOP $

This family-owned-and-operated taco shop in Rockport serves up some of the most delicious tacos and Mexican dishes in the Coastal Bend. 402 E Market St, (361) 790-8513

SONNY’S BARBACOA $

This quaint taco shop is the place to go if you’re searching for barbacoa. Using only prime cuts of meat to assure the freshest, a best tasting tacos around, Sonny’s Barbacoa is no joke. 4066 S. Port Ave, (361) 808-7711

SEAFOOD

BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL $$

Sit indoors, sit outdoors, enjoy the Gulf Coast while diving into top-quality coastal cuisine, live music, craft cocktails and some of the best views around. 258 Snapdragon, (361) 749-4653, Blackmarlinbarandgrill.com

COSTA SUR WOK & CEVICHE BAR $$

This cevicheria is a true Peruvian party on your palette. The dishes are exciting, fresh takes on traditional dishes from South America. Perfect for ending a long beach day. (361) 945-8303 15113 S Padre Island Dr #101, costasurcc.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 $$

Local waterfront treasure serving up the best in casual dining, relaxed happy hour, and leisure shopping experiences. 108 Peoples St, (361) 881-8503, harrisonslanding.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

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. 5009 Hwy 361, (361) 749-4222, Cinnamonshore.com

RED FISH WILLIES $$

Enjoy a casual laid back evening of fine dining, there is something for all seafood lovers at Willie’s. With a vast menu and award-winning dishes, you won’t be disappointed. 322 Huff St., 361.758.9991, redfishwillies.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

SCUTTLEBUTT’S BAR & GRILL $$

Extensive menu makes sure to have something for everyone. Food made from scratch from the dressings to the burger patties. Make sure to stop by during happy hour for drink specials. 14254 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6769, Scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com

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

WATER STREET OYSTER BAR $$

Long-standing and beloved Corpus Christi landmark serving up oysters, sushi rolls and fresh Gulf seafood in a historic, brick building in the heart of downtown. 309 N Water St, (361) 881-9448, 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 dryaged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood. 5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, Katz21.com

NIKOS STEAKHOUSE $$

Committed to the motto “Great Food, Great Times. Great Experience.” Casual and elegant atmosphere that will truly exceed any steak lover’s expectiations. 5409 Saratoga Blvd, (361) 992-2333, nikossteakhouse.com

REPUBLIC OF TEXAS $$$

One of the most exclusive dining destinations in the Coastal Bend. A multi-level steakhouse offers beautiful panoramic views of the bay and exceptional dishes. 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 887-1600, omnihotels.com

THAI

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR $$

BKK is brining a modern twist to the traditional Thai dishes. Their menu is filled with tasty items you are sure to love. 3850 S Alameda, Ste. 27, (361) 334-0857, bkkthaikitchenbar.com

THAI COTTAGE $$

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

THAI SPICE $$$

Family owned and operated for over 12 years, this restaurant is an intimate fixture providing curries, noodles & other traditional Thai dishes in a upscale relaxed atmosphere. 523 N Water St, (361) 883-8884

CAN YOU SAY THAT IN KETO?

PHAT KETO’S CONQUEST AND CONFECTIONS

BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

To keep life from losing its deliciousness, Phat Keto Co. translated the foods we love to eat into a “pretty healthy and tasty” (PHAT) version. Centered in a new location in the Doddridge Plaza, the fresh eatery keeps the ball rolling on the sugar-free, gluten-free, and low-carb movement; a feat that required focus on a nice place and a fresh taste.

“This is how it started: I’m not a cook,” owner and keto-enthusiast Margie Castillo says. “I’m a baker, so I had the breads. I knew how to make all of these different breads, and Becky (Rebecca) added the rest of the menu.”

Becky Rodriguez says, “It’s a lot of us tasting things together and figuring out what’s good. There’s not really a theme to what we do, except it being keto-genic; it’s low-carb, it’s gluten-free and sugar-free.”

What started as a personal diet for Castillo grew into a way of life, and eventual business plan – after educating herself on the right way to eat and prepare foods narrowly based on the keto and gluten-free diet, she found herself pleasantly surprised with the abundant health and conscious lifestyle that came with it. And it turned out she wasn’t the only one in the Coastal Bend seeking out this refreshingly new way of life.

Her sugar-free confections grabbed the attention of others on her own Facebook timeline first, and then Castillo agreed to start distributing her keto-genic baked goods. A small bakery on North Staples St. was where this evolved, and Castillo and Rodriguez gained experience on running a business.

“Managing all the vendors is something else,” Rodriguez laughs. “You learn that it’s not just the food and beverage vendors, but it’s also the questions like, ‘Who’s providing your electricity?’”

have been able to enjoy these hot, tasty treats if gluten/sugar/carb-free alternatives didn’t exist. Additionally, the PKC team also offers vegan options upon request.

“What started out for me as just keto turned out to be a lot more than that. We help a lot of people who may be diabetic, or have celiac disease and have to avoid gluten. It’s not just keto; it’s just making healthier choices, being healthy. That’s what it turned into,” Castillo says, smiling in her apron.

Contact:

3741 S. Alameda St., Corpus Christi, TX

361.342.4963 | @PhatKetoCo

LOOKING BACK

A Princess on Water Street

BY: JILLIAN BECQUET PHOTO: PHOTO COURTESY OF

Imagine walking down Water St. today, away from downtown and headed toward the Port. Look out toward the water – all the land you can see is infill from building the seawall. Standing at Mann and Water, you are standing in a location many only dreamed of visiting: the beautiful waterfront view (including a pier) provided by the Princess Louise Hotel. You’ll still see the hotel, now the Princess Apartments, standing above you.

Reeling from the loss of the Seaside Hotel in the 1919 hurricane, the Chamber of Commerce provided a $10,000 incentive to anyone who would build a resort. In 1927, Walter and Louise Foster and her brother John Saunders opened the 110-room Princess Louise Hotel, named for Mrs. Foster. They collected their bonus and opened the

hotel to great fanfare, including the comment from their first guests that, “You don’t miss home so much in a place like this.”

The pink-painted stucco stood out against the red-tile roof, which reflected the interior’s Spanish villa flair. The resort hotel enjoyed a great run of success, but soon the seawall project made headway and the hotel was now located two blocks inland. A “seaside” hotel is not the same without access to the water. Walter Foster stayed involved in the management of the hotel through WWII, but with his death in 1948, ownership went to his secretary. She remodeled the hotel into apartments, which it serves as to this day – still painted pink and still watching over Corpus Christi Bay, from two blocks inland.

CORPUS CHRISTI PUBLIC LIBRARIES

A 1940s postcard shows the changes made to the hotel as it adjusted to its place downtown.