March 2020 Issue by The Bend Magazine

THEHOME ISSUE

INSURE WHAT MATTERS

EXPLORE .

RESTORE .

Make your stay in Corpus Christi more enlightening with a visit to the Texas State Aquarium. You’ll save more than memories - you’ll contribute to rescue and conservation. The largest aquarium in Texas offers an adventure for the whole family. Explore 227,000 sq. ft. of exhibits, and encounter more than 400 species, including dolphins, otters, sea turtles, sharks, flamingos and fish. Our newest experience, Caribbean Journey,immerses you in one of Mexico’s great natural wonders. Pathways wind through jungles where flamingos mingle in a lagoon, birds flutter above and sloths hang out. Peer through an underwater window into the vibrant habitats of the Yucatán Peninsula. A 400,000-gallon shark habitat lets you venture through a tunnel and a shipwreck, just inches from these predators. It’s not just a vacation; it’s a contribution to conservation. Your visit helps support environmental education programs, scientific research, beach cleanups and the rescue of birds and sea turtles. So you’re not just making memories…you’re making a difference.

#SaveMoreThanMemories / Corpus Christi, Texas / texasstateaquarium.org

Cheri Sperling

Betheny Bell

Tara Gallaspy

Mary Scruton

Whitney Noble

Robbie O’Quinn

Meagan Furey

Elise Lippincott

Show this ad to receive up to $1,100 off of your closing costs! Offer ends June 30, 2020. your

With unmatched personalized service, the experienced team of professionals at Kleberg Bank is the key to buying the home of your dreams at a rate you can afford. Financing options include home loans (fixed rated, FHA and VA), construction loans, land or lot loans, and jumbo loans.

Contact a mortgage professional at 361-993-3223 or apply online at KlebergBank.com/mortgage.

Whether you’re looking for a happy hour spot with a view or a nightcap after a fun day at the beach, look no further than Omni Corpus Christi Hotel. From craft cocktails and casual fare at Topsider to poolside sips, we take refreshments to a new level.

How

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

Monica Benavidez

309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.792.3606

On the Cover:

ADVERTISING: gloria@thebendmag.com

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

Every March, we put an emphasis on local homes, interior design, and architecture into our issue. From our main feature, “The Art of Living” – where we go inside the beautiful and art-centric abode of Monica and Scott Ellison – to our Spaces section curated this month by Monica Benavidez, we hope this issue provides you with inspiration and a sense of home. The cover image depicts one of the many areas of the Ellison home that exudes warmth, color, and unique style.

(Photo by: Jason Page)

ARTof LIVING the true

My husband and I moved into our first house together exactly a year ago this month. Making a house a home is something rather important to me. Creating a safe, welcoming space for ourselves and our loved ones who frequent our home was crucial. From birthday parties and holiday celebrations to laundry nights and lazy Sundays, the Cooper home has become a place to retreat to not only for us, but for those we love.

We’ve always dedicated our first issue of the spring season to homes in the Coastal Bend. This year our cover feature, “The Art of Living,” takes readers inside the home of Monica and Scott Ellison. Local names and global style bring this abode to life starting on page 38. When our team arrived at the Ellison home for the photoshoot and interview, we were greeted by two small pups and a smiling, gracious couple – ready to open up their personal, safe space to us and in turn, to all of you. However, just as Senior Writer Emma Comery explains in the feature, the home is much more than colorfully painted walls and art pieces from a time past. “It’s the story of a life together, a curation of memories and enjoyment,” Comery writes.

I think that just might be the true art of living. The concept of a home housing more than just people or furniture pieces, but our story – beautifully intertwined with laughter, memories, growth, phases of life, the good times, but also the bad. It’s easy to get wrapped up in what our spaces should or could look like – chasing the latest trends and feeling like a room just isn’t quite finished yet. But, when you inevitably leave one space and move

to another, the things that stick with you come in the form of precious memories that once took place between the walls, not the way a picture frame was perfectly hung or the way a rug complemented the room just right.

This issue, of course, highlights design aesthetics and trends, gives you tips on how to achieve the perfect space, and defines various home décor styles – which, yes, is the point of a Home Issue. However, I’d like to think that when you’ve put this issue down, you might stop and consider your own art of living and what that looks like. Because, after all, a home shouldn’t look like a magazine; it should look like you.

– KYLIE COOPER, Editorial Director kylie@thebendmag.com

THREE TAKEAWAYS:

1. Pomegranate Productions, a local film production studio, has set out to bring opportunity and representation to the independent film industry. Their latest production, LAS VIRGENES, is made up entirely of local creatives and strives to give an important story a life on-screen. Page 50

2. Yarn Texas is the only locally owned fiber arts store in the Coastal Bend. Owner Susan Chilcoat has brought her passion for practicality and her creative energy to the table in the form of a safe space for knitters of all levels. Page 86

3. The newest local dining spot, DOKYO Dauntaun, has opened its doors. Owner Kil Lee is ready to bring a new sense of dining to the Coastal Bend and doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon. Page 110

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

YOLA COCINA MEXICANA (open fall 2019)

AROUND THE BEND

IN THE FAMILY

Dressing head to toe in a single color may sound daunting, but it is an easy, sure-fire way to elevate your look. Whether in a bold red or a subdued blue, a monochrome outfit takes the guesswork out of getting dressed. No need to have pieces in the exact same shade to make this look work. Pulling together an outfit has never been easier.

STYLED BY: KYLIE COOPER & JARRED SCHUETZE PHOTOS BY: AARON GARCIA

Yellow Caftan, Yellow Linen

Blouse

Pilar

Silk Mustard

Blouse

Four Chicks in the Park . Gold

Bee

Earrings Shop

L&RK . Clear Round

Shoulder

Bag

Jewels

. Vinatge Yellow Pants

Chels Marie

Army Green Tank Shop Sassy

Cowl Neck Parachute Dress Pilar

Vintage Army Green High-Waist Cotton Skirt Chels Marie Army Green Suede Jacket Jewels

Chels

Vintage Teal Scarf Chels Marie . Dark Green Caftan, Green Half Circle Earrings Pilar

AWAKENING

Florals? For Spring? Groundbreaking, I know. But with all due respect Meryl and Anna, florals are timeless and when used right, can breathe new life into your world. So whether you choose to adorn your wardrobe or your environment, do it with florals.

BY: JARRED SCHUETZE

2. Pressed Floral in Brass Bezel with Freshwater Pearl Necklace Lavender + Lee

3. Floral Still Life Print 24"x24" Amanda Flores Art 4. Fiddle Leaf Fig Gill Garden Center + Landscape Co. 5. Hand Woven Nicaraguan Table Runner Pilar 6. Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh Daze Sephora 7. Mother Earth's Plantasia Vinyl Record Hybrid Records 8. Blaire Floral Leather Platform Sandal Michael Kors

YOUR BEST SHOT

We loved seeing your colorful walls! 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 April issue’s photo contest theme is Neighborhood Staples!

No matter where in the Coastal Bend you call home, there are businesses you frequent on the daily. Coffee shops, nail salons, gyms and everything in between; we want to know your neighborhood go-to's! Snap a photo of a neighborhood business you visit on the reg. in the Coastal Bend, tag us (@thebendmag) and use the hashtag #bestbendlife to be considered!

@ashleyalyssa

Rise by Lifting Others

LOCAL NONPROFIT CHAPTER TURNING ENTREPRENEURIAL DREAMS INTO REALITY

BY: JESSIE MONSIVAIS PHOTO

BY:

MAUDE CÔTÉ DAVIS

We’ve said it once, we’ll say it a million times more: we absolutely love locals supporting locals. After all, that’s basically the DNA of The Bend Magazine. That is why when an organization like LiftFund comes around, it’s hard not to feel connected to them.

LiftFund Corpus Christi is a nonprofit organization that helps small business owners with limited access to capital have a chance to live their dreams. With offices in Houston, Dallas, El Paso, Laredo, and now Corpus Christi, LiftFund offers business loans and services to help small business owners, and those looking to own a business, with resources to do so.

Corpus Christi native Janie Barrera is the CEO of LiftFund. LiftFund started in San Antonio 25 years ago, but with her push and a significant grant from the U.S. Treasury, LiftFund expanded to open an office in Corpus.

“Corpus Christi is a dear place in my heart and was where I was pushing to open an office,” says Barrera. “We had a lot of assistance from the City of Corpus Christi, the Small Business Development Center that is part of Del Mar College, and from all the banks in Corpus Christi. I knew first-hand the struggles businesses have in Corpus. We wanted to share the opportunity that some small businesses don’t have because they lack access to capital and the training and education that they need to start their business or grow their business.”

Kosmo’s Hair & Nail Salon, Hester’s Coffee Shop, Threads, 361 Apartment Locators, and The Bay Jewel are just a handful of the local businesses that have prospered with the help of LiftFund. Laura Leal Estrada is the local marketing lead for LiftFund, and as a resident local, she knows how important small businesses are to the economy. Estrada sits with her customers,

listens to what their business needs are, and assesses how LiftFund can help.

“I schedule a time to make an introduction, visit with the customer, and go through the application process together, giving them the time they need and educating them. We try hard to make ourselves accessible to small business owners and to make it a very comfortable process,” Estrada says.

LiftFund offers working capital loans from $1,000 to half a million for opportunities such as buying space or opening a second location. Estrada is there to help small businesses throughout the Coastal Bend with working capital loans at 4 percent. She also attends seminars with her clients at the Small Business Development Center, to help clients gain the tools they need to run a business.

“There are a plethora of seminars. I can walk my clients to the seminars –helping them learn how to use QuickBooks and build credit,” says Estrada. “If we help them get prepared, they understand how to be an owner of the business. Sometimes I participate with them. We are learning together. The more we all know, the more we all prosper.”

According to Barrera, Corpus Christi is a trendsetter in helping LiftFund grow through the community. First established in the City of Corpus Christi, the Dream Maker’s Fund aims to close the capital and business education gap with lower interest rates and education for small business owners.

“Small business is the true activator in our community. So many new ideas and initiatives start with small businesses, and people have a dream, and their dream is not just for themselves but the whole community,” Barrera says passionately. “The work we do is like the old saying, ‘Give a man a fish, and you’ll feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you’ve fed him for a lifetime.’ Except we help people buy the pond where they fish and leave it to the next generation –breaking poverty and leaving an asset.”

Local Instagram Accounts

BY: KYLIE COOPER

In the world of social media, there's an Instagram account for just about everything. Is there a specific diet you partake in? There’s an account for that. What about a certain breed of dogs you can’t get enough of? Definitely an account for that. Perhaps you’re looking for style and design inspirations? Plenty of accounts for that. No matter the type of content you wish your feed to be filled with, Coastal Bend locals are heading to the gram and connecting with their followers left and right. Here are just a few of our favorite local accounts we think you should be following.

CCFOODSTAGRAM

If you’re looking for a constant update on all things local food, we’ve got just the account for you. Katlyn Crisman heads up an Instagram profile dedicated to the Coastal Bend foodie scene. She posts solely from locally-owned restaurants and keeps her followers in the know of where to eat next, what she recommends ordering, and where her favorite spots are. @ccfoodstagram

PADRE ISLAND BEACH

Living on the coast means ample opportunity to snap gorgeous beach front photos. The Padre Island Beach account regularly posts photos shared from locals and visitors alike featuring our beaches. From epic surfing shots to photos of a family-filled day of fun, this account will surely have you ready for summer and those oh-so-beloved Coastal Bend beach days. @padreislandbeach

LOREN ESTES

Low-waste and healthy living go hand-in-hand for local gal Loren Estes. By day, Estes works in the ER and dedicates her free time to creating recipes for healthier meals, providing low-waste tips and tricks, sharing workout regimes, and more. Her feed is filled with colorful and fresh photos that remind us all to put our health first. @loren.miche

THE INDIGO LEOPARD HOME

This eclectic, bohemian North Padre Island home has caught our eye many a late-night-Instagram-scroll. Sarisa Munoz has curated her home in the most jaw-dropping way and provides endless interior design inspiration to her followers. Her entire abode is dreamy, but the clawfoot bathtub in the master bath is enough of a reason for us to follow her account. @the_indigo_leopard_home

LEVI GUZMAN

The Coastal Bend is filled with extremely talented photographers. We look to our local photographers on a daily basis for inspiration and perspective. One of our favorites has to be Levi Guzman. Not only is his own feed filled with insanely beautiful Corpus-centric photos, but he helps countless other local businesses to help make their Instagram grids as aesthetically pleasing as possible. Locals helping local – you know we’re all about that. @dreamthorp

PILAR HAS BEEN OPEN FOR JUST ABOUT 44 YEARS - WITH YOU AT THE HELM FOR THE LAST 31 - AND HAS UNDOUBTEDLY BECOME A LOCAL SHOPPING STAPLE. HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE SHOP EVOLVE OVER THE YEARS?

Besides radical changes in hairstyles and fashion, Pilar’s evolution has been subtle. Our core principle is to bring beautiful, intriguing, and unique items from around the world to our customers - and to do so with personal, genuine customer service. I won't deviate from this driving principle, or Pilar wouldn’t be Pilar.

Since I’ve owned the store and because of my passion for the south of the border, however, we now offer much more merchandise from different states in Mexico and Guatemala than before. Pilar has always had a philanthropic underpinning in our buying practices. I most certainly continue this practice but focus more on the empowerment of women. Not only do we carry more work by female artisans, both local and in general, but we now offer more lines structured to directly impact the lives of women, such as providing employment opportunities.

TERRY

Sciantarelli

THE WOMAN AT THE HELM OF PILAR ON FAIR TRADE, THE SHOP'S PRESENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY, BEING A RANCH WARRIOR, & HOW SHOPPING IN THIS STORE REQUIRES PATRONS TO LOOK IN ALL DIRECTIONS

SO WHAT DOES YOUR BUYING PROCESS LOOK LIKE, AND HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN AN ITEM SHOULD BE SOLD IN YOUR SHOP?

I try to buy directly as much as possible, which is why I often travel south of the border in order to bring back hand-picked, incredibly beautiful and unique pieces. I hold a deep appreciation and admiration for artisans and their work. But what moves me is the perpetuation of their cultural history and traditions. The items tell their story, stories we share with our customers.

Over the years, Pilar has established enduring relationships with many companies from the United States and around the world. These companies practice fair trade and offer sustainable products – products created with natural dyes, and recyclable and organic materials. My connection to the natural world speaks to many of the buying decisions I make. Given that our store has been an integral part of the community for more than 40 years, we are blessed with exceptionally loyal and multi-generational customers. We consider our customers family. While shopping for the store in general, I always keep my customers close in my mind. If I see an item I know a par-

ticular customer would love, I buy it; then, give them a call. We also keep track of customers who are either looking for something particular or want to be notified when a new shipment of certain lines of clothing or jewelry arrives in the store. Whenever I travel, I carry a list of customer requests. For example, a customer may want a table runner from Guatemala in a particular color scheme; I will then do my very best to hunt down that runner.

WHAT ARE SOME OF THOSE STORIES YOU LOVE TO SHARE?

When I visited Teotitlan del Valle, Oaxaca – a village known for its weaving – I watched in awe as a woman created a magnificent fabric on a backstrap, a method used for hundreds of years. One indelible memory is when I met an elderly man with no hands weaving with his feet on the streets of Comalapa, Guatemala. He told me he lost his hands due to an accident when working the fields. His wife taught him how to weave, so he could help support their family.

WHAT DO YOU THINK PILAR BRINGS TO THE COMMUNITY THAT IT WOULD LACK WITHOUT ITS PRESENCE?

Pilar is a world in and of itself: Customers don’t just shop at the store, they experience it. Pink flamingos fly from the ceiling among the Noah bells and chimes. Brightly embroidered Otomi and other fabrics grace the walls and tables. Whimsical and religious folk art adorns our shelving units. Quirky items and critters like our lucky, three-legged pigs are sure to bring a smile or a giggle. Jewelry shimmers in eight cases, and racks of beautiful clothing wait to be discovered. We tell our customers they must “look up, down, and all around” because we have treasures everywhere.

I would be remiss if I didn’t emphasize how the world of Pilar is brought to life by a team effort. The women of Pilar work diligently to create a delightful atmosphere. As a team, we

taining customer service – we love to laugh. I can’t think of any other store in Corpus Christi that embodies all that we do. I can’t imagine

WHAT WOULD SOMEONE BE SHOCKED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

Before my career in retail, I worked with my father – Bill Shaw – in one of his building companies. Most of my time was spent constructing and installing cabinetry. I became adept with the tabletop saw, cross cut (saw), and plane. Yet my favorite was the lathe. I was also the “finishing gal” and had my own area inside the warehouse where I varnished, stained, or painted the cabinetry. I even hung sheet rock once. Once was enough. I am proud to say I have built products for homes and businesses all around the Coastal Bend.

WHEN YOU AREN'T BUSY WITH SHOP THINGS, HOW ARE YOU SPENDING YOUR TIME?

As often as possible, I jump on my tractor and spend hours mowing and mowing, and cutting and hauling brush, along with attempting to complete other necessary tasks at our family’s ranch. I become a ranch warrior. But I am not a hunter; I only shoot pictures of birds and the abundant wildlife, including one pesky armadillo who incessantly digs holes throughout the property. I think he does it just to spite me. Being a ranch warrior is hard, physical work, but it is a labor of love and a great stress reliever. Nature refuels and inspires me. I return to the store with a few aching muscles and a clear mind – ready to continue my adventure.

Contact:

3814 S Alameda St., Corpus Christi, TX 361.853.7171 | @pilarlifestyles

THE ART OF

OF LIVING

From local names to global styles, this home is a livein gallery of art, proving there truly is an art to living.

TEXT BY EMMA COMERY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JASON PAGE

As our “Sparkling City by the Sea” and the surrounding Coastal Bend neighborhoods experience a surge of entrepreneurial innovation, downtown activity, and Insta-worthy local pride (and we are here for it!), we still find pleasure in discovering the wallflower holdouts, diamonds in the rough, and hidden gems of our community.

That’s why we were giddy with excitement to meet Monica and Scott Ellison. Neither Ocean Drive McMansion nor Padre Island waterfront villa, their mid-sized 1937 build on Santa Fe sits quietly behind a curtain of foliage, almost completely invisible from the street. They say to never judge a book by its cover…well, never judge a house by its exterior, either. The muted, blue-gray facade doesn't prepare you for the explosion of color waiting inside. As you enter the home through an arching church-style door, you’re met by a rainbow of hues. Thirty-six different colors (to be exact) paint life into the Ellison house, from warm Pueblo yellow in the entryway to Tahiti Lime green in one of the bedrooms.

All this color, and the first thing to draw your eye when entering the Ellison home is the row of three small square portraits hanging above the patio door in the entryway. Two girls and a boy – the Ellison children. Family friend and TAMUCC Associate Professor of Art Joe Pena gifted the portraits to the Ellisons as a thank-you for hosting his wedding to now-wife Diane in their lushly landscaped backyard. The placement of these portraits makes a statement; it says, Welcome, here we are, come be part of the family.

Or, at least that’s how I decide to take it, since I’m about to be incredibly nosy and snoop through every room of their out-ofthis-world gorgeous home.

The Ellison abode, as it stands today, is the culmination of remodels spanning eight decades. It’s easy to tell which parts are original, since the living room still sports early-mid-century wall panels, and the wood floors in the hallway undulate with age. The architecture is a personality of its own.

Perhaps the most vibrant space in the house is the kitchen. Remodeled by the previous owners, it boasts every texture imaginable and soaks in natural sunlight from counter-to-ceiling windows. Wood floors give way to sprawling white granite countertops. The counter-height island pops with green, blue, and white tiles, and a feature wall has been entirely redone in brick. In the corner, a whimsical stove alcove reveals another tile inset, this one the color of the Mediterranean. When it comes to storage, this kitchen throws it back, sporting floor-to-ceiling wooden drawers like a giant card catalog from a 1950s library…but with snacks.

For Monica, the kitchen feels “like you’ve hit the jackpot. You wake up every morning and breakfast becomes such a joy.” Breakfast does sound infinitely more delicious when you imagine it served at the long, modern wood table beneath a colorfully flavorful painting of a smooshed, quasi-cherubic Frida Kahlo. Chubby and bright, she bends her head to her shoulder, trying to fit within the dimensions of the canvas, so vivacious she’s nearly uncontainable. She’s riveting. No wonder the kitchen is the heart of the home, a “focal point for hanging out,” as Monica puts it. “We will just sit

at this table and drink wine. We barely ever make it into the living room.”

The kitchen is a showstopper, a cover model, a dream. But the true allure of the home is in its history, its labyrinth of add-ons and renovations that make you want to pull open every drawer, cubby, and door that promise stories and – possibly – passage to another place or time. Through every door appears another door, another turn, another built-in cupboard that no doubt leads somewhere wonderful – Narnia, perhaps.

As I poke through the house, pushing through swinging doors, getting happily lost in the maze, I note every style of furniture imaginable from mid-century tables to modern bookshelves, vintage lamps, and even a table decorated entirely in old bottle caps.

“So far as design, there’s no rule in our house,” says Scott. “It’s kind of a hodgepodge, eclectic collection of stuff.”

TWO LARGE SCALE NATIVE AMERICAN PROFILES

BY ARTIST

BEN WRIGHT COMMAND ATTENTION

AS YOU MOVE THROUGH THE LIVING ROOM

A RECLAIMED PIECE, THE ENTRY CHANDELIER HAS REPURPOSED GLASS SET IN THICK METAL, AND WHEN YOU TURN THE LIGHT ON, ALL THAT COLORED GLASS BOUNCES ON THE WALLS IN BEAUTIFUL TONES OF AMBER

With built-in shelves boasting various art pieces and artifacts from a time past, it seems as though any direction you look, you’ll find a new piece you hadn’t seen before.

“I know exactly where every painting came from,” Monica adds. “When there’s a story behind the piece, it makes it that much more interesting.” As she takes our team through the home, she tends to point out every single piece adorning the walls and tells us how she acquired it, who is behind it, and what it means to her.

The Ellisons may say they have no particular vision for their decor, but a tour through the home belies an intention so natural, it’s nearly subconscious. It’s the story of a life together, a curation of memories and enjoyment. Scott describes their home as “a respite,” and in that vein, every viable space is dedicated to art. One of my personal favorite pieces in the home – a Cande Aguilar pop art, comic-book-style collage – hangs above the toilet. The average American spends two hours a week in the bathroom, so why not make it beautiful?

And yet, with all the curated artistic mastery, the Ellison house is very much a home – a place to enjoy a glass of wine, practice drums, and make a meal together. Every room reflects the joys, evolutions, and memories of this specific family, reminding us ever-scrolling Pinterest addicts that you don’t need to be Joanna Gaines to cultivate a space of comfort and beauty.

Because, really, a home shouldn’t look like a magazine. It should look like you.

ADORN YOUR INTERIORS WITH BEAUTY, STYLE, & EFFICIENCY

DESIGN DISCOVERIES

1. NOURISON RUGS - PRISMATIC COLLECTION, ALLISON FLOORING AMERICA . 2. PALECEK CALLAHAN CABINET 45" W X 20"D X 70"H, SUSAN CASTOR COLLECTION . 3. OVERSIZED 40" ROUND MIRROR WITH BRASS SHEETING ON WOOD, CHIC TO CHIC FURNITURE . 4. BRUSHED BRASS AND LINEN TABLE LAMP 29"H, CHIC TO CHIC FURNITURE 5. TIGER PRINT LOUNGE CHAIR WITH BRUSHED BRASS BASE, CHIC TO CHIC FURNITURE . 6. CONCRETE AND OXIDIZED BRONZE STEEL DRINK TABLE, CHIC TO CHIC FURNITURE

“It is vital in this day and age that we create opportunities for everyone regardless of race, gender or sexual orientation “

Amid the bustling bayside hub of port comings and goings, a booming medical mecca, and refineries running at full steam, there is the network of creatives who are building their brands into thriving business ventures. If you are a downtown regular, you’re likely already privy to the art scene, along with its growing community of eclectic minds all banding together to put the Coastal Bend on the map for film and art education. One such group mastering the craft of turning raw creative energy into works of on-screen art is Pomegranate Productions.

The studio began its independent filmmaking journey in January 2017. Over the course of one year, founder and owner Taylor Carmona was able to harness a collaborative team of creatives to create Pomegranate’s first ever short musical film. Right off the bat, Carmona’s team shared her love for “integrating a collective of artists, designers, crew techs, and filmmakers to create a visual representation of a world [she’s] created in [her] head.” Carmona and her team have continued to nurture their shared vision of increasing creative content that is influenced by the local community and culture.

“Independent filmmaking is about building a network within your community,” says Carmona. “We are excited to have local actresses, Josianne Salcido and Victoria Aguilar, as leads in our cast, depicting an original story told from the mind of a South Texas Mexican-American.”

The studio is currently working on a short film titled LAS VIRGENES. Its themes revolve around feminism, individuality, and empowerment. Ultimately, “it gives voice to underrepresented groups to know your own worth and speak up for yourself in the face of adversity,” explains Jennifer Bracy, Executive Producer and Production Manager of Pomegranate Studios.

Bracy sees LAS VIRGENES as a powerful and unique creation that showcases the importance in celebrating our differences and acknowledging each individual’s impacts on the world, both on and off screen. “While it is a dramatized narra-

tive short, the themes will resonate in one way or another with all viewers,” says Bracy.

The story’s origin is largely based around the overwhelming lack of representation in film with respect to women and people of color. “The most effective way to showcase the community is to write stories about your personal experiences or interpretations of your environment,” Carmona explains. She believes that by taking back the narrative, Mexican and Latino-Americans can tell their own interpretations of their cultural backgrounds. Seeing her stories go from pen and paper to full production is cathartic for Carmona; she sees this process as a departure from the stereotypical archetypes within which people of color are usually placed.

However, getting the necessary funding to produce these unique stories is very rare. With a bootstrapped effort and a highly dedicated band of artists, the Pomegranate Productions crew remains motivated to find creative ways to keep their projects going.

Having the support of the overall community helps this effort to remain a part of the “creative ecosystem” within the city, according to Bracy. Generating the right buzz not only gives voice to underrepresented minorities of all types, but also puts Corpus Christi on the map as a film-friendly city.

The Corpus Christian independent film community has been steadily developing for some time now – mostly devoid of funder backing. Those making it happen may be students at Del Mar College or Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi actively studying the arts, or people who are not formally trained actors or producers or camera techs, but who are seizing the opportunity to contribute to small-scale local projects to learn how film is done.

But as seen in the film industry at as high a level as Hollywood, rarely is a cast and crew inclusive of a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds. In fact, Ava DuVernay, African-American writer, director,

Pomegranate Studios is on a mission to produce more than just great movies

By: Kirby Tello

Photos by: Lillian Reitz

and producer of award-winning films such as Selma,13th, and WhenTheySeeUs, was recently praised for curating her production teams to employ a majority of minority talent. Much like DuVernay, Carmona recognizes that so many roles in entertainment are simply not made for or offered to minorities. Often, stories of ethnic origin are written and depicted by non-minorities, and when those works are presented to the larger audience, they don’t always get the story right. Carmona shares in DuVernay’s mission to create the roles for which minorities tend to be overlooked, and produce content using the lens of people who have actually experienced firsthand the material presented.

“The impact of having a diverse and inclusive crew and cast of local Coastal Bend creatives, who are dedicated and steady in their craft, helps solidify that we can provide a network of individuals capable of extending their talents to a new industry,” says Carmona.

In the long-term trajectory, Pomegranate Productions is striving to make a name for South Texas and essentially put us on the map for prospective productions to see our landscape, resources, and community support systems as a viable and desirable resource in creating independent film and keeping the craft of the filmmaking industry alive.

And alive it is. Jonathan Swindle, President of Hi-Res Media Group, is Carmona’s longtime friend and creative partner. “Taylor and I went to high school together in a small town of 3,000 people,” says Swindle. “As such, we know the importance of taking responsibility to be the drivers of change. We recognize that we cannot sit back and expect others to bring opportunities to us.” Swindle is an essential player in assembling each piece of the production elements, to see a story go from idea to full-fledged film.

“It is vital in this day and age that we create opportunities for everyone regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation,” Swindle says. Because of the solidarity and diversity of the cast,

the Pomegranate Productions team is “capable and effective in producing some really beautiful work.”

In their third and latest production, LAS VIR GENES, their goal is to increase the creative content influenced by the community and the culture. The film explores the story of four Lati na girlfriends in their late teens, who have all pledged to devote themselves to a higher power by avoiding any sexual activity, and who pride themselves on their chastity. Each character represents and interprets the unique facets of the female psyche through exploring themes such as heartache, grief, sexuality, faith, and pride.

This highly relatable and timely story aims to “vi sually showcase the collaborative capability of our city's developing creative class,” according to Swindle, who is an executive producer of the film. Hopefully, sharing this narrative – with a key emphasis on giving voice to real-life expe riences that are not often explored using such intimate, but exceptionally relatable, humanity and emotional themes – will elevate this group’s overall potential when it comes to the national film festival circuit.

A community-wide casting call is currently un derway for LAS VIRGENES. No prior experience is necessary to submit an inquiry to audition. Production is scheduled to take place in April of this year.

One thing clearly seen among each member of every production Pomegranate has been behind is the devotion to seeing that important stories are given life on-screen, and that minority South Texans are able to experience film that accurate ly depicts their histories and narratives. “We are proud of the crew we have assembled here,” says Carmona, “and [we] cannot wait to represent a unified example of independent film production.”

At Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital, we provide comprehensive inpatient rehabilitative services to people recovering from disabilities caused by injuries or illnesses. We help our patients regain their abilities so they can return home at their highest level of independence.

2020

TOP ATTORNEYS

Summary.

Final

ADOPTION LAW

Frances Willms

361.880.4040

APPELLATE LAW

Audrey Mullert Vicknair

The Law Office of Audrey Mullert Vicknair

361.884.5400

Brian Miller

Royston Rayzor

361.884.8808

Frank Weathered

361.904.3157

Rob George Liles White, PLLC

361.826.0100

ARBITRATION

& MEDIATION

Andrew Lehrman

Anderson, Lehrman, Barre & Maraist

361.884.4981

Benny Cason

Webb Cason, PC

361.887.1031

David Dunn

Dunn, Coffey & Kasperitis, PC

361.883.1594

Gregory Wills

Law Office of Greg Wills

361.238.4480

James Upton

Upton, Mickits & Heyman, LLP

361.884.0616

William Kelly

Law Offices of William J. Kelly

361.888.6600

BUSINESS

LAW

Shannon Stokes

Porter, Rogers, Dahlman & Gordon, PC

361.880.5808

Stephen McMains

Stephen C. McMains, Attorney at Law

CIVIL LAW LITIGATION

Donald Jones

Porter, Rogers, Dahlman & Gordon, PC

361.880.5808

Madison Hagopian

Porter, Rogers, Dahlman & Gordon, PC

361.880.5808

Rene Obregon

Chaves, Obregon & Perales, LLP

361.884.5400

CIVIL LAW TRANSACTIONAL

Christopher Garza

Gowan Elizondo, LLP

361.651.1000

CONSTRUCTION LAW

Timothy McMurtrie

Royston Rayzor

361.884.8808

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Adam Rodrigue

Law Office of Adam P. Rodrigue

361.882.3030

Dee Ann Torres

The Torres Law Firm

361.866.5267

George Picha

George F. Picha III, Attorney at Law

361.946.8496

Harold Waller

Waller Law Office, PLLC

361.882.3030

Ira Miller

Law Office of Ira Z. Miller, PC

361.882.7788

James Granberry

The Law Offices of James D. Granberry

361.888.5556

John Gilmore

John Gilmore Attorney at Law

361.882.4378

Kayla McMains

The Law Office of Kayla McMains

361.658.1425

Lisa Greenberg

Law Offices of Lisa Greenberg

361.446.2476

Lisa Harris

361.834.8335

Richard Torres

The Torres Law Firm

361.866.5267

William Bonilla

The Law Offices of William Bonilla, PC

361.882.8284

ELDER LAW

Brenda Baker

Baker & Baker Attorneys at Law

361.985.2226

Edwin Baker

Baker & Baker Attorneys at Law

361.985.2226

Paul Swacina

Huseman Law Firm

361.883.3563

Susan Hutchinson

Davis, Hutchinson & Wilkerson, LLP

361.882.2272

FAMILY LAW

Ann Coover Coover & Coover

361.882.2100

David Henry Law Office of Susanne Bonilla Harrold, PC

361.947.7002

Diamond De Leon

361.774.3011

Lindsay M. Browne

Law Office of Lindsay Browne

361.866.5229

Nicholas Rothschild

Rothschild Law Firm, PLLC

361.866.5437

Steve Lopez

Law Office of Steve Lopez, PLLC

361.500.4052

IMMIGRATION LAW

Debra Rodriguez Rodriguez & Moretzsohn, PLLC

361.883.8900

Heather Moretzsohn de Castro Rodriguez & Moretzsohn, PLLC

361.883.8900

INSURANCE LAW

Christopher Lowrance Royston Rayzor

361.884.8808

Kristina Fernandez Donnell, Kieschnick, Wolter & Gamez, PC

361.888.5551

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW

Susan Ochoa Spiering Ochoa & Associates, PC

361.806.0070

LABOR & EMPLOYMENT LAW

Clif Alexander

Anderson Alexander, PLLC

361.452.1279

Jon Brooks Brooks, LLP

361.885.7710

Myra Morris Royston Rayzor

361.884.8808

Tonya Webber

Porter, Rogers, Dahlman & Gordon, PC

361.880.5808

LEGACY - 30 YEARS IN PRACTICE

Armando Cavada

361.816.6549

Ben Donnell Donnell, Abernethy & Kieschnick, PC

361.866.8102

Cornelius Hayes III Porter, Rogers, Dahlman & Gordon, PC

361.880.5808

Douglas Chaves Chaves, Obregon & Perales, LLP

361.884.5400

Henry Nuss III Welder Leshin, LLP

361.561.8030

James McKibben Jr. McKibben, Martinez, Jarvis & Wood, LLP

361.882.6611

Joseph Cohn Jr Welder Leshin, LLP

361.561.8000

Michael D George

Michael D. George, PC

361.880.4040

Michael Stukenberg Branscomb, PC

361.886.3800

Philip Hall Welder Leshin, LLP

361.561.8000

Ralph Meyer Royston Rayzor

361.884.8808

Rebecca Flanigan Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid

361.880.5434

Russell Manning Cotten Schmidt, LLP

361.888.8041

Sandra Watts 117th District Court

361.888.0436

William Edwards The Edwards Law Firm

361.698.7600

William Granberry Brin & Brin, PC

361.881.9643

MEDICAL MALPRACTICE

Richard Woolsey Woolsey & Associates, PLLC

361.561.1961

Jeffrey Lehrman Anderson, Lehrman, Barre & Maraist

361.884.4981

Kathryn Snapka

The Snapka Law Firm

361.888.7676

OIL & GAS

Charles Gordon IV Port, Rogers, Dahlman & Gordon, PC

361.880.5808

H. Scott Taylor

Branscomb Law

361.886.3800

Joe Christina Jr Port, Rogers, Dahlman & Gordon, PC

361.880.5808

PERSONAL INJURY

Alex Hernandez Jr.

Alex R. Hernandez Jr, PLLC

361.400.0178

Charlie Webb

Webb Cason, PC

Craig Sico Sico Hoelscher & Harris, LLP

877.631.9965

John Schroader

Thomas J. Henry Injury Attorneys

Kevin Liles

Liles White, PLLC

361.826.0100

Minesh Patel

The Patel Firm, PLLC

361.400.2036

Stuart White

Liles White, PLLC

361.826.0100

Todd A. Hunter Jr. Liles White, PLLC 361.826.0100

Tony Choi

Thomas J. Henry Injury Attorneys 361.254.7873

PRODUCT LIABILITY

Brantley White

The Carlson Law Firm

361.336.3317

David Bright

Sico, Hoelscher & Harris, LLP

877.631.9965

David Rumley

Wigington, Rumley, Dunn & Blair, LLP

361.885.7500

Henry Blackmon

Hastings Law Firm

361.692.2000

REAL ESTATE LAW

David Z. Conoly

David Z. Conoly, PC

361.937.6400

Tiffany Fader

Law Office of Tiffany Fader

361.887.9900

RISING STAR - 5 YEARS IN PRACTICE

Celeste Baltierra Liles White, PLLC

361.826.0100

Emily Arnold Branscomb, PC

361.886.3800

Jeffrey F. Kane

Law Office of Jeffrey F Kane

361.371.7186

Lander Baiamonte

Assistant United States Attorney 361.903.7921

Louie Cook Sico Hoelscher Harris, LLP

361.653.3300

Stephanie Harlien Texas Riogrande Legal Aid, INC.

361.880.5454

Stephen Garrett Cotten Schmidt, LLP 361.888.8041

TAX LAW

Casey Rickard Branscomb, PC 361.886.3800

Craig Ansel

David, Hutchinson & Wilkerson, LLP 361.882.2272

Marco Longoria Branscomb, PC 361.886.3800

WILLS

Martin David David, Hutchinson & Wilkerson, LLP

361.882.2272

Newman Baker III

David, Hutchinson & Wilkerson, LLP

361.882.2272

Omar Leal Branscomb, PC 361.886.3800

Scott Sherman Branscomb, PC 361.886.3800

ALEX R. HERNANDEZ JR.

THE LAW OFFICES OF ALEX R. HERNANDEZ, JR. PLLC

lex R. Hernandez Jr. was born knowing his future was destined for greatness as an attorney. The son of a longtime prominent judge and attorney, Alex decided to follow in his father’s footsteps working for an investment firm before embarking in a career of law.

Alex Jr., the son of a Mexican immigrant, was born in the Gulf Coast and graduated from Calhoun High School in Port Lavaca, Texas. He went on to Victoria College, The University of Texas at Austin, and St. Mary’s University School of Law. Alex’s career spans across two decades, helping his community in most aspects of law.

He started his career in San Antonio with a personal injury law firm and from there he moved to Austin to work for a smaller plaintiff’s attorney. He finally made his way to Corpus Christi and worked in insurance defense with the old law firm of Chavez Gonzalez and Hoblit. At the time, when the firm included Julian Castro and Joaquin Castro at their San Antonio offices, Alex

began defending on the insurance side of the bar, while also helping businesses such as Motel 6, La Quinta and Reynolds Metals.

In 2005, Alex decided to go out on his own and start his own firm out of the front area of his home on Furman Avenue. He began accepting clients wherever he could, eventually branching out to different areas of law other than personal injury. From there, he expanded by going back home to the Port Lavaca and Victoria areas where he opened a branch office of this Corpus Christi Law Firm.

For the past 15 years, Alex has handled hundreds of cases in different areas of law including: business, real estate, consumer law, probate and estate issues, white collar criminal defense, and of course personal injury and car accidents. He also handles class action lawsuits and mass torts. His background in Economics and Finance has helped him excel in business and commercial litigation.

On any given day, Alex can be found in the courtroom, in a deposition, or administering and managing a Law Firm with over 50 of counsel attorneys in seven different Texas law offices.

In his personal time Alex can be found working on his Southside home near Chapman Ranch, running or at the gym, or spending time with his beloved wife Roxanna and their children.

CORPUS CHRISTI OFFICE 921 N CHAPARRAL ST. SUITE 100

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401 361.792.3811

ALEXHERNANDEZTRIALLAW.COM

ALEXHERNANDEZBUSINESSLAW.COM

DONNELL, KIESCHNICK, WOLTER & GAMEZ, P.C.

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

onnell, Kieschnick, Wolter & Gamez, P.C., founded in 1973 as Meredith and Donnell, in Corpus Christi, Texas, celebrates being one of the oldest firms in the Coastal Bend with two offices and six shareholders. The firm was proud to change its name last year and continues to practice in a wide variety of areas in Federal and State Courts throughout Texas, in areas from Wills and Estates to Personal Injury, Employment Law, Family Law, Medical Malpractice, Construction Defect, and Civil Appellate Law.

Ben A. Donnell, a founding shareholder of the firm, graduated from the University of Texas School of Law. Ben’s practice consists of Real Estate, Estates and Probate, and general civil litigation. Celebrating almost 60 years as a lawyer, Ben continues to represent clients throughout Texas, while serving on several community boards.

Sandra Sterba-Boatwright, managing share-holder of Donnell, Kieschnick, Wolter & Gamez, P.C., graduated from the University of Texas School of Law. Sandra’s areas

of concentration include Employment Law, Workers Compensation and general personal injury. Sandra started at the Donnell, Kieschnick, Wolter & Gamez, P.C. in 1985 and practices throughout South Texas. Sandra is a supporter of public radio and is a world traveler.

Clay Coalson, Board Certified in Civil Appellate Law, specializes in civil appeals, insurance coverage and personal injury. Clay routinely argues before various appellate courts throughout Texas. He has been a member of Donnell, Kieschnick, Wolter & Gamez, P.C. since 1987 and is currently a shareholder. Clay is a graduate of the University of Houston Law Center.

Patrick Wolter graduated from the South Texas School of Law in Houston, Texas. He served as an Assistant District Attorney prior to joining Donnell, Kieschnick, Wolter & Gamez, P.C. in 1987. Pat’s litigation experience allows him to defend clients in Personal Injury, Construction Defect, Premises Liability, Toxic Torts, and general insurance cases.

Jose Gamez joined Donnell, Kieschnick, Wolter & Gamez, P.C as a shareholder in the Edinburg office in 1995. His practice focuses on Personal Injury, Construction Defect and general litigation defense. He graduated from the University of Houston Law Center.

Kristina Fernandez became a shareholder in 2020, after joining Donnell, Kieschnick, Wolter & Gamez, P.C. in 2010. She attended the University of Texas School of Law and has been recognized by Texas RioGrande Legal Aid as a “Pro Bono Superstar”. She currently serves on the board of the Corpus Christi Bar Association. Her practice consists of general insurance defense, Personal and Premises Liability and Family Law. Kristina strives to make her late mentor, Rebecca Kieschnick, proud as a full time working mom and litigator.

CORPUS CHRISTI OFFICE

555 N CARANCAHUA ST # 400

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401

361.888.5551 • DAKPC.COM

PORTER, ROGERS, DAHLMAN & GORDON, P.C.

BUSINESS INSTINCTS – LEGAL SOLUTIONS

ur attorneys at Porter, Rogers, Dahlman & Gordon, P.C. are highly skilled professionals, each of whom bring a unique blend of experience and talent to their work. The firm’s attorneys, Charles Gordon, IV, Tonya Webber, Joe Christina, Jr., Don Jones, Rick Rogers, Cornelius M. Hayes III, Jenny Cron, Madison Hagopian, Shannon Stokes-Russek, Rick Foster, Marc Williams, Raj Aujla, Lisa Alcantar, Brandon Coony, and Amelia Edelman, serve clients throughout the state from our base in South and Central Texas.

Our offices are conveniently located in Corpus Christi and San Antonio and operate as a single cohesive team of committed attorneys and seasoned legal support staff who share their individual knowledge, resources, skills and talent to benefit our clients. We handle both standard and complex cases in the areas of Litigation, Oil and Gas, Business and

Corporate, Insurance, Construction, Health, Mergers and Acquisitions, Labor and Employment, Real Estate and Estate Planning and Probate. We represent individuals, businesses, corporations, institutions, and public entities throughout the state. Since our beginning in 1969, we have strived to be a premier and trusted firm for our clients and the legal community.

Our long term presence as a firm stands as a testament to our commitment to provide exceptional representation to our clients and serve as trusted attorneys in our legal community. Porter, Rogers Dahlman & Gordon, P.C., prides itself on being a full-service, onestop business solutions law firm. We stand ready to help new clients launch the business of their dreams and provide committed support to established clients building their businesses.

CORPUS CHRISTI OFFICE

800 N SHORELINE BLVD #800 S CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401 361.880.5808

SAN ANTONIO OFFICE

745 E MULBERRY AVE #450 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78212 210.736.3900

PRDG.COM

DAVIS, HUTCHINSON & WILKERSON, L.L.P.

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

avis, Hutchinson & Wilkerson, L.L.P. was established in 1994 by Marty Davis, Susan Hutchinson and Marshall Wilkerson. Craig Ansel joined the firm one year later and Carey Locke and Tree Baker joined the firm in 2006. More recently, the firm added Deanne Pierce and David Gibson as partners.

Over the last 26 years the firm has earned a reputation for providing specialized, high quality legal services. The firm’s practice areas include estate planning, probate, trusts, tax, business and real estate transactions, oil and gas, and business and real estate litigation. Firm clients range from high net worth South Texas families and large businesses to individuals and single owner companies.

The firm’s estate planning and probate department has over 100 years of combined experience and expertise in estate planning, probate, trusts and tax law. The attorneys in this department are all Board Certified, four in Estate Planning and Probate

Law and one in Tax Law, and frequently serve as authors and presenters for continuing legal education programs for lawyers and CPA’s.

The firm’s business and real estate department includes attorneys who are Board Certified in Commercial Real Estate Law and Residential Real Estate Law and who have successfully negotiated and closed billions of dollars in business and farm and ranch real estate transactions, oil and gas transactions, credit facilities, and business sales and acquisitions.

The firm also has a very successful track record of resolving probate, business and real estate litigation matters quickly and efficiently.

Their commitment to the community is evidenced by the attorneys’ involvement on the Boards of civic and charitable organizations, including the Texas State Aquarium, Christus Spohn, the Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Foundation, the Coastal Bend Com-

munity Foundation, the Rise School, the Del Mar College Board of Regents, and the Boy Scouts of America.

Davis, Hutchinson & Wilkerson, LLP prides itself on delivering the same level of service and expertise that is expected of large national firms, but with the responsiveness, cost effectiveness, and personal attention of a boutique South Texas law firm.

CORPUS CHRISTI OFFICE

802 N CARANCAHUA ST #1500

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401

361.882.2272

DHWLAW.COM

LINDSAY M. BROWNE LAW OFFICE OF LINDSAY M. BROWNE

PORTER, ROGERS, DAHLMAN & GORDON, P.C. BUSINESS INSTINCTS – LEGAL SOLUTIONS

Lindsay M. Browne practices family law in Corpus Christi and in the surrounding areas. She has been licensed for 14 years, and has served on several committees and boards throughout that time. She began her own practice in Houston, then later moved to the Corpus Christi area in 2008. She received the award of “Corpus Christi Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year” in 2014. She was also peer-elected to be a Fellow in the Texas Bar Foundation. Most recently, she was selected as one of Texas’ Rising Stars, the list of which was featured in the Texas Super Lawyers magazine; the April 2019 Texas Monthly Magazine; and in a special Top Women Lawyers Section of the January 2020 Texas Monthly Magazine. She offices in downtown Corpus Christi, in the 802 NC building. Her areas of practice include divorce, child custody, child support, modifications/enforcements, terminations/ adoptions, child protection issues, and estate planning. She is honored to serve the Coastal Bend in the area of family law.

Susan Ochoa has been practicing intellectual property law ( involving patents, trademarks, copyright, trade secret matters) in Corpus Christi, Texas for the past 25 years. She is born and raised in Corpus Christi, having attended Miller High School and Del Mar College. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from UTSA and a Juris Doctor from William Mitchell College of Law, St. Paul Minnesota. She has served as in-house counsel for Exxon Chemical Company and Celanese Corporation. Her practice is centered on consulting and obtaining protection in intellectual property and has at times supported litigation as a consultant or expert witness.

CORPUS CHRISTI OFFICE

800 N SHORELINE BLVD #800 S CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401 361.880.5808

SAN ANTONIO OFFICE

745 E MULBERRY AVE #450 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78212 210.736.3900

PRDG.COM

If you are a small or large business, consider protection for your inventions, your trademark, or your written materials. The last thing you want to do is consider protection after someone has stolen your idea or your company name/logo. Susan is your South Texas Patent Attorney, focusing on providing every client with personal attention and quality service.

SUSAN OCHOA OCHOA & ASSOCIATES,

DAVIS, HUTCHINSON & WILKERSON, L.L.P. ATTORNEYS AT

LAW

From Wichita Falls, Texas to Kent State (BBA) to Golden Gate University (MBA) to Georgetown University Law School (J.D), Ed Baker covered some ground before choosing to make Corpus Christi his home. Along the way, he served four years in the Army leaving the service as a Captain in Military Intelligence. He met his wife Brenda in 1976 in school and married two years later. After law school, they traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and picked Corpus Christi to settle down and begin their practice.

Law and one in Tax Law, and frequently serve as authors and presenters for continuing legal education programs for lawyers and CPA’s.

After years of divorces, bankruptcies, and foreclosures, Ed finally found an area of law that gave him a sense of satisfaction. Today, he is a nationally and state Certified Private Professional Guardian, responsible for over 30 elderly or infirm individual wards and nearly 100 additional guardianship cases. Much of his time now is spent helping clients obtain Medicaid benefits for long-term medical care. With average nursing home costs rising, getting Medicaid to pay the bill without losing your home, your car, or your life savings is an extremely useful service.

The firm’s estate planning and probate department has over 100 years of combined experience and expertise in estate planning, probate, trusts and tax law. The attorneys is this department are all Board Certified, four in Estate Planning and Probate

5350 S STAPLES ST # 203

Born and raised in Quincy, Illinois, Brenda Baker received her B.A. in philosophy from the University of Denver and her J.D. from Georgetown University before choosing Corpus Christi to raise her two children and build a law practice with her husband of 40 years. Probate, wills, trusts, and guardianships keep her actively engaged in elder law practice. She is a former president of the Corpus Christi Bar Association, and she serves as Alumni interviewer for students seeking admission to Georgetown.

munity Foundation, the Rise School, the Del Mar College Board of Regents, and the Boy Scouts of America.

5350 S STAPLES ST # 203

CORPUS CHRISTI OFFICE

361.985.2226 • BAKERSELDERLAW.COM

802 N CARANCAHUA ST #1500 CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401 361.882.2272

The firm also has a very successful track record of resolving probate, business and real estate litigation matters quickly and efficiently.

361.985.2226 • BAKERSELDERLAW.COM

DHWLAW.COM

STEPHEN MCMAINS

ATTORNEY AT LAW

CHRISTOPHER A. GARZA GOWAN ELIZONDO, LLP

PORTER, ROGERS, DAHLMAN & GORDON, P.C.

KAYLA MCMAINS

BUSINESS INSTINCTS – LEGAL SOLUTIONS

ATTORNEY AT LAW

Kayla and Stephen were both born and raised in Corpus Christi and share a passion for their beloved city and the people in it. They love helping people through the many charities and boards they are involved with but also with their work. Kayla defends those who encounter the criminal justice system and Stephen has over eighteen years’ experience helping clients and businesses fix the issues they encounter. Kayla met Stephen before leaving for law school and even sought advice from him before beginning her own legal career. After graduation, Kayla returned to Corpus Christi to work for the Nueces County District Attorney’s Office. The two were married in 2018 and Kayla soon joined Stephen in private practice. Today they each have successful practices and Stephen is now sought after for his mediation services as a credentialed mediator by the Texas Mediator Credentialing Association. Though they focus on different areas of the law, both of their practices strive to not only help their clients but strengthen the community.

5337 YORKTOWN BLVD SUITE 5-3

KAYLA: 361.658.1425 • STEPHEN: 361.887.9900

CORPUS CHRISTI OFFICE

800 N SHORELINE BLVD #800 S CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78401 361.880.5808

SAN ANTONIO OFFICE

745 E MULBERRY AVE #450 SAN ANTONIO, TX 78212 210.736.3900

Christopher A. Garza is an associate attorney working alongside Gregory Gowan and Luis Elizondo of Gowan Elizondo, LLP. Christopher grew up in Corpus Christi and graduated from Mary Carroll High School. He then earned his Business Degree at Texas Christian University and his Law Degree from The Texas Tech School of Law. Christopher is a trial advocate and is dedicated to representing clients injured in trucking, auto, dangerous premises, and work-related accidents. As a young lawyer, Christopher is always looking to apply new and innovative solutions to old complex problems.

PRDG.COM

Christopher A. Garza is licensed to practice law across the state of Texas and in the United States District Courts for the Southern and Western Districts of Texas. Christopher has been recognized as a top attorney under 40 by The National Trial Lawyers, the American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys, and Attorney and Practice Magazine. Christopher was recently accepted into the American Board of Trial Advocates National Trial College that will take place at Yale Law School later this year.

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.

Owner of Water Dog Floating Yoga, Stacie Richline knows a thing or two about wellness. From crucial sun protection and hydration to the perfect makeup for active days, she’s spilling all her tips and tricks. What’s Inside

Ounces of Prevention

FIND A VARIETY OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS EXPERTS THANKS TO A NEW, LOCAL NETWORK

BY: ALEXIS HARBORTH

A new group in Corpus Christi is collaborating to show how ounces of prevention are worth pounds of cure.

The Health and Holistic Network of Corpus Christi, which began in 2019, is the brainchild of LaDonna Calhoun, the owner of Arcane Moon Apothecaria and former owner of Archer Soapworks & Apothecary. Inspired to create more awareness and access to holistic wellness for the Corpus Christi community, she set out to form a network a variety of health and wellness services.

“Corpus Christi has grown in their expectations about what healthy is,” says Calhoun. She, along with several who would go on to form the board of directors, had all been ruminating on how many may not be aware of, or know how to get in touch with, different types of care and services.

Once the idea took hold, the group formed quickly. "We worked to find people in different specialties and put them somewhere people can find them easily and utilize their practices. Right now, we have about 36 professionals, and [are] adding more.”

On their website, there are 12 categories ranging from fitness and nutrition to energy work to farming and livestock. The user-friendly design of the site was a key aspect. “We sectioned the site to list different specialists so it’s easier for people to navigate. All you have to do is look under a category and click on that name to learn more.”

The range of specialties goes hand-in-hand with their head-totoe approach. Some may be standalone specialists, whereas “others can be complementary to the care that people receive from traditional medicine and doctors,” Calhoun explains.

Serving alongside Calhoun as Director on the Health and Holistic board of directors are Tim Tate, Assistant Director; Jonda Watson, Secretary/Editor; Suzanna Sudder, Marketing and PR; and Mandi Bever, Consultant. They each bring their own perspectives and proficiencies to guide and grow the network.

Tate, a licensed professional counselor, works with patients on natural approaches to exercise, sleep, mindfulness, and more. “I think it’s important to have a group of like-minded people promoting a variety of approaches to whole health – mind, body, and spirit,” he says. His office, which is a medical office with psychiatrists and nurse practitioners, sees many who are interested in more holistic methods.

Sudder, co-owner of The Vine Juice Company, describes how it’s exactly that type of interest that inspired the creation of The Health and Holistic Network of Corpus Christi. “There’s an interest on both sides. Health professionals want to band together to teach people about all the options and ways to take care of yourself. And on the other side, people are looking for other answers [besides] just going to the doctor.”

The group, which recently celebrated its first anniversary, had another milestone – its first big event, called The Health & Holistic Fair. It’s just the beginning for a group poised to make a big impact on the Coastal Bend.

Watson, a holistic energy, sound, and crystal healer and the owner of Luminous Blessings, is excited about how their group can touch so many lives in Corpus Christi. “When we start making better choices – even just eating healthier and moving more – we start seeing a healthier community.”

Contact: hhncc.org | @health.holistic.cc

RICHLINE'S stacie

go-to WELLNESS TIPS

LOCAL YOGA AND STAND-UP PADDLE BOARDING STUDIO

OWNER DISHES TIPS AND TRICKS FOR KEEPING YOUR SKIN AND MIND HEALTHY NO MATTER YOUR AGE OR LIFESTYLE

BY: STACIE RICHLINE

BY: LILLIAN REITZ

I believe it’s important to find balance in your life along with finding a fun way to stay active and healthy. I am the owner of Water Dog Floating Yoga, a unique houseboat studio in the marina in Downtown Corpus Christi. A major part of my health and wellness routine involves being active outdoors. I walk my two Sheltie pups every day, and I regularly practice outdoor yoga and go SUPing (Stand-Up Paddle boarding). I love that Corpus Christi provides a year-round outdoor environment where the warm sunshine and abundant waters are the perfect place to stay active and enjoy nature.

I’ve found walking or SUPing with my pups to be just as good a stress reliever as doing yoga. My Sheltie pups, Habibi and Pearl, bring

me great joy and were the inspiration for my business name. In 2017, I decided to open Water Dog to share my love of this city, the water, wellness, and nature with the community and visitors.

At my studio, we have outdoor land-based classes on the deck as well as Stand-up Paddleboard classes. My aim has always been to make our classes accessible to anyone who wants to enjoy and experience fitness and relaxation on the water, even if they are not a yogi or a paddler. I believe experiences are more important than things, but I still have several go-to products to keep me safe, healthy, and smiling when I am outside or on the water.

PHOTOS

Waxhead Zinc Oxide Sunscreen Stick

From March to November, I can be out on the water for 5-6 hours a day for Stand-Up Paddle boarding classes. Having a good sun protection product is very important. When I teach SUP classes, I use Waxhead sunscreen because it’s very water-resistant and it’s also skin nourishing. I love that it is Reef Safe and that it only has 4 clean and simple ingredients: It is made of 25 percent non-nano zinc oxide, certified organic coconut oil, beeswax, and vanilla extract. The combination of coconut and vanilla also make it smell amazing!

Available at gowaxhead.com $25.98

CliniqueFIT Workout Makeup SPF 40

When I am on the water all day, I need a heavy sunscreen like Waxhead, but for days walking the dog or teaching a deck class, I prefer something lighter. I often work out with very littleto-no makeup, but when I do wear makeup, I find that CliniqueFit is a great option. Along with being lightweight, it is sweat- and humidity-proof, and it includes sunscreen. It wears for 12 hours and has a very natural-matte finish. It is also oil-free and 100 percent fragrance-free. Available at Clinique.com $22.13

Bomber Eyewear Floating Sunglasses

I don’t want to worry about losing my sunglasses to the bottom of the bay when I am enjoying the water. Having good eye protection is necessary in Corpus Christi’s sunny environment. I like Bomber Eyewear because they use a foam lining technology that makes them float. They come in a variety of styles and colors and they are designed with water sports enthusiasts in mind, so they are comfortable, durable, and inexpensive. I was first introduced to them at a local surf/yoga festival in Corpus Christi, and I have been wearing them ever since.

Available at Bombereyewear com $9.95-69.95

Renewing Argan Oil of Morocco Weightless Healing Dry Oil

Corpus Christi is known for high humidity and strong winds – which does not work well for most hairstyles! For outdoor exercise, I’ll usually put my hair in a ponytail or wear a hat. When I want to wear my hair down, this Argon oil hair product is a life saver! Along with protecting my hair from UV damage, the light spray adds shine and it helps tame the frizziness and flyaways. I also like that it contains cocoa seed butter, coconut oil, and avocado oil.

Available online at H-E-B $5.74

Stay Hydrated

We all know that staying hydrated is super important for our overall health and well-being. It becomes even more important when working out or spending time in the heat. Reusable water bottles are a must for the environment. My favorite water bottle is my Water Dog branded H2GO Force 17oz stainless steel bottle in aquamarine. I drink water constantly, and I carry this with me wherever I go. It has a double wall that helps keep things cold up to 24 hours.

Available at Water Dog Floating Yoga $25

Tula Blue White Rice Pearl Choker

When working out, practicing yoga, or swimming in the sea, all of us ladies want to look and feel like mermaids. Tula Blue is island-inspired jewelry that’s waterproof and made from knotted handspun rope. Not only is this pearly jewelry pretty and petite, it is made by Corpus Christi local and Islander Heather Stringer. She started making it while living in Hawaii. At a yoga class she learned that “Tula” meant balance in Sanskrit, and this is what drove her business name and lifestyle concept. Available online at etsy.com $60

Get Moving

Move, get outside, and enjoy the fresh air in whatever way makes you feel happy and invigorated. If you have a pup, be sure to bring it along sometimes; they need the fresh air and activity too! I believe spending time outdoors is one of the best ways to improve your overall health and happiness. In fact, studies have shown it helps to lower stress, blood pressure, and heart rate, while improving your mood and mental health.

by Melania Clara

Bio-Identical Hormone Pellet Therapy for Men

& Women

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HOME & GARDEN

Never fear the concept of a bold space – no matter the size. Monica Benavidez gives us a peek inside her beautiful home to show how even a small breakfast nook can be packed with prints, patterns, and colors without overwhelming the eye.

a french inspired FARMHOUSE

FAMILY HEIRLOOMS AND WEATHERED FURNITURE COMBINE TO CREATE FUNCTIONAL FARMHOUSE DÉCOR

BY: JAQUELINE GONZALEZ PHOTOS BY: JASON PAGE

he Country Club subdivision is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, the tree-lined streets, and the friendly neighbors, which is precisely what drew Laura and Travis Nelson to this neighborhood. They found a home with a lot of potential for upgrades, which provided the perfect blank canvas for Laura to play with some décor options that she’d envisioned during the various visits to the home while it was on the market.

The Nelsons loved the layout of the home and had no intentions of updating the footprint, so the renovations only took about three months to complete. “I don’t like an open floor plan,” says Laura, “so I was happy to keep the traditional footprint with separate rooms to allow for privacy.” Laura had a vision for the home, and began by pulling up the floors, changing the lighting, repainting the walls, changing the windows, and putting in new doors.

Laura initially struggled to decide on a color palette. The apartment she lived in previously was mostly brown, so she considered playing with col-

or, but ultimately opted for a neutral palette with pops of color because “it’s easier and you don’t have to be tied to something; you can change it up.” She swapped out the pink shades in the home for a softer assembly of white and gray with pops of sea salt green and baby blues, a color palette inspired by a close friend with similar tastes, combined with a bit of French influences and Joanna Gaines style.

To complement the new soft shades of the home, Laura combines family heirlooms and weathered furniture to creative a different spin on farmhouse décor. “We have a difficult time choosing art, because we want to make sure it is meaningful,” says Laura. Some of the more prominent pieces include a grandfather clock from the 1850s from Travis’s grandmother’s house, the dining room table with a glass overlay to protect its weathered finish, and a slightly worn, handmade wooden coffee table in the study. The pièce de résistance is in the form of framed postcards sent from Travis’s grandfather during WWI in Paris. These items, and many more in the home, provide that lived-in charm that Laura strives for.

THE COMBINATION OF WOOD AND METAL TONES OFFER A WARM AND SUBTLE MASCULINE VIBE THAT BALANCES WITH THE OVERALL FARMHOUSE AESTHETIC

The living room is a big, beautiful chamber that originally had all wood paneling and dark beams. Laura transformed it into a dim, relaxing area juxtaposed with some of the lighter farmhouse and French staples from her chosen décor style. A floor-to-ceiling shelf toward the back of the room acts as a display for vintage and farmhouse décor, which adds character. The Frame TV sitting atop the mantel adds a modern touch with its Art Mode option to add beautiful, lifelike, pixelated landscape art for a true pop of color. The combination of wood and metal tones of the orb light offers a warm, subtle masculine vibe, but balances really well with the metal wreaths hanging on the wall.

The kitchen is another one of the couple’s major projects – although the original layout was perfect, there were some areas that Laura wanted to improve. A wraparound desk and a cabinet were removed and replaced with shiplap to create the breakfast nook she always wanted, and the pink shades were replaced with a lighter, more subtle combination of white and gray.

The color choice was perfect to complement the lighting from the windows in the kitchen and breakfast nook. The floors in the kitchen were an impressive find: Laura was on a mission for Chicago brick to lay and veneer in the kitchen, but to her surprise, she found a tile that is identical to Chicago brick (complete with the herringbone pattern), but a much more functional option. The layout of the kitchen is also perfect for Laura to make delicious cookies for her cookie-baking business, and she couldn’t wait to take advantage of the ample space.

The outdoor area of the Nelson home was one of my favorite spots. The lush greenery, full playground for the kids, a deck built and stained by Travis, and a new wooden fence create a fun and functional space. Seeing this area makes it difficult to imagine that this area was once covered in mud, had no grass, and was burdened with broken concrete trenches and a chain-link fence covered in crepe myrtles.

Although the home is filled with vintage and weathered furniture, there’s a unique flair in each room, creating a comfortable, casual, and welcoming vibe throughout.

A CERTIFIED HOME

Your home is your greatest asset. It's a great place to build financial stability for you and your family. However, you don't just build a home for an investment...you build it to live in as the setting for your life. Since you spend most of your time there, when you choose a home, you’re choosing the environment your family will grow in.

Choosing the right home is important. For a home to build value for your family, it should be well built and have low maintenance costs. It should be designed and built with longevity in mind. With that said, wouldn't it be great to know if the home has low utility bills, the cleanest air and water possible, and makes a small environmental impact?

When choosing a new home for your family, how can you ensure that it is built to achieve all of these "green” building standards? How can you be sure that you are buying a home that "measures up"? If only there was a measurement system you could use to get an independent assessment of any home.

Well, several years ago in an effort to do just that, The Coastal Bend Homebuilders Association introduced The Coastal Bend Green Built Initiative. The CBGB employs rigorous construction standards, along with third party testing and inspections to measure and certify the "green aspects” of any new home construction including: Materials and Resource Efficiency, Energy Efficiency, Alternative Energy Sources, Water And Air Quality and Efficiency(A Healthy Home), as well as Moisture Control.

A home with a CBGB certification ensures the buyer that a home is built to standards exceeding the regular building code or a ‘code-minimum’ home. This means the paint, flooring, and cabinetry are free of harmful emissions and the home is energy efficient. A certified green built home has a low carbon footprint and low environmental impact, providing a more sustainable way of life in the Coastal Bend.

Since these standards are becoming increasingly important to buyers, a Greenbuilt home is an excellent investment.

All Braselton homes are CBGB certified. In fact, Braselton Homes was a founding Member of the CBGB, and the first local builder to build a CBGB Platinum Level Home! We are proud to say that all our homes are built to the highest standards of green building.

To learn more about homes that are not only healthy and environmentally friendly, but good investments, check out the Coastal Bend Green Built program at www.coastalbendhba.org/green-building/ or tour one of our CBGB certified homes today!

You can visit any of our seven fully furnished Braselton Model Homes, in the Corpus Christi Bay Area. For maps and directions, please visit us at braseltonhomes. com. Green is good....a Green Built Homes not only saves the owners money, but also saves the environment.

See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton

BART BRASELTON

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 is the Executive Vice President

one seriouslyHOT PEPPER

BY: JUSTIN BUTTS

THE SEARING, SPICY HABANERO q

a need-to-know basis

GROWING UP

Plant habaneros in early March in well-composted, well-drained soil, in a wide bed. Plant two habaneros side-by-side, then one eggplant centered, then two habaneros, following this pattern down the bed (15” spacing for all plants). Plant one Mexican mint marigold on each side of the eggplants. This companion planting design repels pests while maximizing harvest. Pick peppers when orange, or let turn red for their full heat.

It is difficult to distinguish the flavor of habaneros because they are so hot, they taste like fire! Habaneros rate about 300,000 units on the Scoville scale; at least 20 times hotter than jalapeños. To eliminate the heat, soak habaneros in alcohol (vodka or tequila) for an hour or two. The heat transfers from the pepper to the alcohol. The habaneros will be mild, but the alcohol will have a kick…perfect for some very memorable cocktails!

PHOTO BY: MAUDE CÔTÉ DAVIS

Chili peppers are native to the rugged deserts They have been cultivated by Native Americans for more than 8,000 years, but were unknown outside the New World.

Hernan Cortez was the first European to taste peppers in 1519, in the cuisine of the Aztecs. He sent pepper plants home to Spain, and pepper cultivation quickly spread across the Mediterranean. Peppers soon poured into the extensive trading networks throughout India, Africa, and

Peppers became so popular in Asia that for centuries, scholars mistakenly believed they were native to China. Many new varieties of sweet and hot peppers were selectively bred in Asia and introduced back into the global trading network. Ironically, the English colonies in America were blocked from Spanish trade, so peppers (like tomatoes) remained largely unknown in America for nearly 300 years after Cortez.

That changed in 1812, when Thomas Jefferson received a package of pepper seeds from his friend, Dr. Samuel Brown – sent from San Antonio, which was then still part of Mexico.

These were chiltepin peppers, which Jefferson grew in his garden and served at his table. Jefferson sent pepper seeds from his plants to farmers across the country, and thus introduced peppers

There was soon a demand in the States for the many varieties of peppers grown around the world. Peppers finally entered mainstream American cuisine nearly three centuries behind Europe, Africa, and Asia. Habaneros were the hottest of these peppers, and a favorite of the new pepper connoisseurs.

LOCAL RECS

"If you’re a fan of spicy, then you’re probably well acquainted with the habanero pepper! They are widely incorporated into different cuisines throughout the globe. Our favorite way to use this pepper is in a classic salad for a little extra kick! Habaneros can be a bit intimidating, but whether it’s cooked in salsa or chopped into pico, you’ll love the flavor and punch this pepper brings."

- Oneida and Tony Maldonado, @frescocctx

FUN FACTS

“Garlic-pepper tea” is a fantastic natural pesticide. To prepare, blend two fists of garlic and ten or so habaneros with four cups of water. (Do this outside, wearing a dust mask, in a blender dedicated to this purpose!) Pour this mixture into a one-gallon container, fill completely with water, fit with a lid, and place in the hot sun for a week. Mix one part of this concentrate with four parts water and spray on plants weekly to repel pests.

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Small but Mighty

BY:

PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Small spaces can have big style. A breakfast nook is the perfect place to bring together décor, color, and pattern to create a vibrant, high impact, but useful family space.

Scale is especially important in small spaces. A small marble pedestal dining table provides a useful, stylish dining space for four, while a tall black and gold etagere adds some height, drama, and a place to showcase décor and vintage treasures of your choice.

PRINTS & PATTERNS

Corpus Christi is home to fabulous antique shopping. Start a collection of similar items to create a curated look. I put this tip to use with blue and white ginger jars.

Facebook Marketplace is your BFF! These dining chairs were dated, and with new fabric and paint they were brought back to life. DIY can get you the luxe look for less.

Florals are always in style, and by using identical prints with one flipped upside down, you can create a focal point or accent wall that wows. Add some plush printed ottomans for extra seating, a stylish butler stand turned bar or serving area, plus a grand crystal chandelier for some glam. Put these tips to use and you’ll have yourself the perfect setting for eating and entertaining.

When styling a furniture piece, I try to always incorporate books in order to add height in comparison to smaller objects, place florals to add texture and liveliness, and source original artwork to add interest and color.

q get the look

Blue and White Planter with Faux

Greenery from Chic to Chic Furniture

Blue and White Ginger Jars from Codi’s Collectibles

Floral Glass Bowl (on butler stand) from Alexis Hunter Interiors

Schumacher Chiang Mai Dragon

Fabric in Ebony (on dining chairs) from Fabric.com

MONICA BENAVIDEZ

& ABOUT

Practicality and artistry go hand-in-hand for Yarn Texas owner, Susan Chilcoat. As the only local fiber arts store in the Coastal Bend, the shop offers tools, classes, and a safe environment for new and experienced knitters alike.

a fiber arts sanctuary

in her self-made (and cozy-looking) scarf. “I like making things that are usable. Making art to put up on a wall – I love it, but I have to make something that’s utilitarian, and beautiful at the same time.”

Yarn Texas was her self-made solution to the lack of soft, colorful, high-quality yarn in the area. With a stacked selection of varied Texas-made yarns, the decision of what to make your scarf out of just got a little harder.

“My real big focus is doing things that fit for Corpus, so I’m doing blends that have lighter weight material, so it’s not this heavy wool fabric all the time. I’m trying to stay as local as I can by using Texas dyers and makers as much as possible,” she says with a smile. “And also...I’m just all about color. Color makes you happy.”

With chunky, tweed, linen, and alpaca options, Yarn Texas specializes in getting the good stuff to your needles.

THE WORLD OF YARN MEETS A CORNER OF TEXAS IN THE FORM OF THIS LOCAL SHOP

This place is even a little knitting hide-out. Chilcoat has everything you may need for your weaving endeavors, such as needles,

BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ

PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Every Friday (4PM) and Saturday (2PM) locals can attend Sit and Stitch. Yarn Texas also offers a variety of classes ranging in all levels and expertise and kits to go with them.

GROWING COMMUNITY

HOW PASSIONATE GARDENERS ARE TRANSFORMING SOUTH TEXAS

BY: ALEXIS HARBORTH PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Community gardens are a growing trend in the Coastal Bend. Colorful crops are popping up thanks to gardeners, volunteers, and children, who are working hard planting seeds and reaping more than just fruits and veggies.

Aislynn Campbell is the founder of Grow Local South Texas. Her passion for community gardening goes back more than 15 years, when she began sharing its countless benefits.

“In the garden, you can learn everything,” Campbell says. “There isn’t a single thing you can’t learn once you get your hands in the dirt – I’ve learned about science, spatial reasoning, reading, seasonality, life and death, insects, different types of biology, communication skills, and more.”

The Learning Garden at Tom Graham Park is by Grow Local South Texas. Campbell explained that it is an important teaching garden – its mission is to cultivate a safe space for educating and advocating the benefits that community gardens create for their neighborhoods, as well as the community.

Another person proud to promote the many advantages of gardening is Richard Snyder, president of The Aransas County Community Garden. “It’s great to know where your food comes from, as well as what it takes to grow it.” He goes on to describe other benefits that some may not typically associate with gardening: “It’s a very social activity, for adults and kids alike, especially because we have monthly meetings where you can meet other people.”

An annual membership at The Aransas County Community Garden costs only $30 a year and includes everything a person needs to get going and growing. “The membership comes with a 4x8 raised garden bed, compost, mulch, support and advice, and more,” Snyder lists. “And whatever you grow is yours to eat, donate, or sell.”

One other garden growing for good is the recently launched Rainbow Vegetable Garden, created through a partnership between the Nueces County Keach Family Library in Robstown and Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s WIC Program.

State representatives from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission traveled to Robstown for the ribbon cutting of the Rainbow Vegetable Garden, whose purpose is to teach the importance of eating vegetables in every color. Children at the grand opening planted the first seeds of the now blooming garden beds.

When it comes to getting involved, Campbell encourages those interested to reach out to any of the gardens in our area. “There are many established community gardens that need help and volunteers.”

Donations are another way to contribute. On the website for The Garcia Center Community Garden at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi, they list needing seeds, compost, and garden equipment to keep the garden running and healthy.

You could also drop in to help out on special workdays at some gardens, like The Aquarius Park & Community Garden. On Facebook, they create events detailing when their next work days are and what they’ll be accomplishing.

There are many ways to get involved, because the process of caring for gardens is as multifaceted as the personal benefits that someone can receive. As Campbell explains, you learn about dedication, commitment, and teamwork in a garden. That’s because hours of work go into each carrot or tomato, but the results come back tenfold.

Gardening impacts minds, as well as bodies, especially in our ever-increasing digital world. “Gardening is such a calming hobby, especially for an active mind,” says Daniel Nash, an avid gardener in Corpus Christi. “Living in the Coastal Bend gives us an opportunity to grow year-round and spend our time outside, not in front of a screen.”

Whether you have a seasoned green thumb or are completely “green” to gardening, everyone agrees on the same thing – get started right away. Because while the crops may take time to grow, the personal growth is nearly immediate. “These are life-changing in our community, and we all have to give our support to make it successful,” Campbell goes on to say. “We can’t live without it.”

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

A different kind of keepsake. A live painter is an excellent way to create a memory the couple will have forever. This also served as a form of entertainment as guests were able to see the painting evolve as the night went on. The final product depicts a beautiful scene combining various key moments from the night.

LAWS LOVE of

BY: JO ANNE HOWELL

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Bold Florals. There was certainly no shortage in florals when it came to this wedding. Bright pops of pink were seen in the bouquets, the loose rose petals lining the aisle, and the gorgeous altar arrangement. Strands of greenery were also used to bring in a neutral tone and create an enchanted area for the ceremony and the reception.

parting words

As Louis and Jackie both practice law, an incorporation of their careers was a fun way to put a twist on décor elements throughout the wedding. Signs with puns like “Case Closed” and “You May Be Seated” were on display. The Corpus Christi Yacht club was transformed into a modern and magical garden of florals, twinkle lights, and candles.

Bright pops of pink and a contrasting pattern of navy and white stripes made for a romantic color palette.

Make a statement. With so many wedding cake trends consisting mainly of plain white cakes, a standout cake can really catch the eye of your guests. Picking a pattern or design to be artfully incorporated into your cake is a great way to add to your overall aesthetic of the evening in a tasty way.

Kenneth Gonzales D.D.S.,

Heather L. Gonzalez, D.D.S.

EVENTS TO KNOW

COMMUNITY

5th Annual Brunch on the Bay March 29th

Join The Bend Magazine for the 5th Annual Brunch on the Bay event! Come out and sample the best brunch menus from all around the Coastal Bend in the heart of Downtown Corpus Christi. Sponsored by Neessen Automotive, Gignac Architects, and Drew Becquet - State Farm, guests will enjoy food, live music, drinks, fun activities for the whole family, and more. This one-of-a-kind local and family-oriented brunch experience shows off the uniqueness of our local dining scene featuring: Bien Mérité, BKK Thai Kitchen + Bar, Coffee Waves, EATS Epicurea, Glass Pavilion, Hamlin Bakery, Island Joes Coffee, Shoreline Sandwich Company, Yola Cocina Mexicana, and more. Head to thebendmag.com for more information. BUS, 702 N. Chaparral St.

COMMUNITY

Loca for Local Market

March 7th

There’s no better way to support local than attending this epic shopping event. Shop some of the most popular brands and businesses from the Coastal Bend at the Loca for Local event put on by Sew Bonita! The event will also feature live entertainment, face painting, a product drive for Period Corpus Christi, food trucks, and of course, tons of shopping! BUS, 792 N. Chaparral St.

COMMUNITY

Shop Small Crawl – Spring 2020

March 7th

For the second time, join local business Made in Corpus Christi for this unique shopping experience. You’ll ride along on a charter bus and stop at six different local businesses providing you with a VIP experience with discounts, snacks, drinks, and more! Purchase your tickets online at shopsmallcrawlcc. com now.

Made in Corpus Christi, 1524 S. Staples

FESTIVAL

4th Annual Corpus Christi Brewery Festival March 7th

Corpus Christi’s brewery scene continues to grow every year and this festival is a great way to experience what all our excellent breweries have to offer! This event will showcase 5 local breweries and many others from around the South Texas region. Don't miss the chance to get your beer fix while taking in those gorgeous bay views.

100 N. Shoreline Blvd.

FESTIVAL

St. Paddy’s Festival 2020

March 14th

This classic Coastal Bend tradition is back for the 9th year in a row! The St. Paddy’s Festival will feature cultural traditions, amazing food, and tons of live entertainment. Put on all the green colored clothing items in your closet and bring the whole family out for this event. With authentic Irish dancers, tons of food trucks to choose from, a Kids Zone, and plenty of green beer, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

300 Block of Peoples St.

FESTIVAL

2nd Annual South Texas Food Truck Festival March 21st

The South Texas Food Truck Festival is celebrating its largest event at Whataburger Field with 50 food trucks serving up wonderful dishes for you to enjoy. That’s right, 50. After your bellies are full there is more to be seen! From live music, arts and crafts, and a petting zoo to food eating competitions, a Kid’s Field Zone, and live entertainment, this free event should be on your radar.

Whataburger Field, 734 E. Port Ave.

ARTS

Pops in the Park: Super 2020 Heroes March 28th

The Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra is presenting an exciting extravaganza honoring heroes! The event will feature the Symphony Orchestra conducted by guest conductor, Brendan Townsend along with spectacular fireworks and fun for the whole family. The crowd is sure to be wowed as the world-class symphony fills the stadium with sensational music from Star Wars, Superman, ET, and so much more!

Whataburger Field, 734 E. Port Ave.

KEDT FOOD& WINE CLASSIC

1. Keith Heavilin, DeeAnna Heavilin, Charlie Whatley, and Catherine Whatley 2. Kevin Villeda, Christina Villeda, and Sam Longoria 3. Kate Treiber, Ana-Alicia Rodriguez, Leanna Cantu, and Monique Vela 4. Kimmi Moake, Raul Trejo, Roberts Suggs, Marjorie Boudreaux, Luis Puron, and Tom Brookshire 5. Jorden Klaevemann, Chanelle Oberly, Kaley O'Brien, and Sarah O'Brien 6. Jennifer Sosa, Rachele Posey, and Shanna Gohlke

PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

TOP ATTORNEYS AT

Scott taylor Oil, Gas, & Energy

B RANSCOMB L AW

Unique among South Texas law firms, Branscomb Law has assembled a team of recognized experts to provide solutions that high net worth individuals and business owners need in the areas of: Tax; Estate Planning and Probate; Oil, Gas, and Energy; Real Estate; Water; Banking; Labor and Employment; Corporate; Mergers and Acquisitions; Personal Injury Litigation, Business Litigation, and Fiduciary Litigation.

In addition to The Bend:

15 Branscomb attorneys are listed as Super Lawyers or Rising Stars by Super Lawyers.

12 Branscomb attorneys are listed in Best Lawyers in America.

11 Branscomb attorneys are rated “AV Preeminent Peer Rated” by Martindale-Hubbell.

9 Branscomb attorneys are Board Certified by The State Bar of Texas.

Branscomb Law has all the lawyers that clients need to help them form their business, capitalize it, grow it, defend it, and sell it. Or, if the client’s heirs will carry on the business, Branscomb Law can help devise an estate plan to pass that business on to those heirs.

Please schedule a consultation to discuss how the team at Branscomb Law can help you.

BOOTS&BLING BALL

2020 Celebration of Courage

1. Nelly Garcia Blow and Crystal Garza 2. Kris Tobar, Arron Etienne, and Leslie Rice Hart 3. David Henry and Jennive Carrera

4. Lynn Frazier, Anne Mahaffey, Cynthia Garcia, Kathy Soward, Kandice Fricke, and Dawn McCarken 5. Jenny Dorsey, Jon West, and Chris Dorsey 6. Tara Mihm and Kevin Mihm 7. Cindy Kranzle and Bethany Marin 8. Angie Flores and Art Granado

CUISINE

Kil Lee has officially unveiled his new project: DOKYO Dauntaun. They have opened their doors and are ready to serve the Coastal Bend not only a variety of unique flavors, but a totally new dining experience.

UPSCALE SUSTAINABLE EATING

MAKING HAEMUL PAJEON (KOREAN SEAFOOD PANCAKES) WITH DIPPING SAUCE

BY: KAYLA & JUSTIN BUTTS PHOTOS BY: MAUDE CÔTÉ DAVIS

What do you do (from a culinary perspective) with an octopus? How about a squid? Seriously, how do you take a raw squid and make it unforgettably delicious?

Haemul Pajeon, a savory pancake made famous in Korea, combines them, along with shrimp and scallops. The garlicky batter dotted with scallions, peppers, and seafood has a compelling variety of flavors and textures worthy of traversing ocean and sea.

Octopus, squid, and other crazy-looking sea creatures are popular fare in many countries around the world, particularly regions where folks eat the local harvest –whatever it is – and make the most of every ingredient. Unfortunately, if you find a squid in South Texas, it will most likely be sold as bait!

But the times, and our palates, are changing. As the demand for sustainable farming and fishing grows, we must push ourselves to rediscover some underappreciated ingredients. Sometimes, as with the Korean seafood pancake, these ingredients can astonish us with their flavor.

This dish is sustainable eating at its best. First, the ingredients are sustainable. Octopus and squid are low-demand seafood products in America. The overfishing of salmon, tuna, and the like have placed enormous pressure on these limited resources. Expanding our diet to include less-targeted ingredients allows a more balanced approach to our ocean harvests.

This dish is sustainable for our health, too. Octopus, squid, shrimp, and scallops are rich in lean protein, vitamins, and minerals. On top of that, these ingredients

are low in mercury, unlike tuna and other popular fish species. Our bodies crave this kind of healthy nutrition. This dish is also sustainable for our pocketbook. These supposedly “lesser” seafood ingredients are quite affordable compared to wild-caught salmon and sushi-grade tuna. You can actually afford to eat as many healthy Korean seafood pancakes as you like!

And that is lucky, because you will crave this dish often. Korean seafood pancakes are sweet, spicy, umami, crunchy, and chewy, with traces of garlic and onion and the magical spices in the buchimgaru mix.

Buchimgaru mix is a special blend of rice flour, potato starch, and spices that is a staple item in Korean households. You can find this mix at local gem Asian Market, conveniently located off of South Padre Island Drive. If you have not shopped at Asian Market, get ready for an incredible food experience. Pro tip: grab the gochugaru (red chili) flakes and other specialties while you are there.

All of the seafood ingredients can be found at the amazing Paul’s Seafood, 9810 SPID, in Corpus Christi. Octopus, squid, shrimp, and scallops are locally harvested and sold fresh from the fishing boats. The fishmonger is very helpful, and the prices are great.

The Korean seafood pancake is sustainable eating at its best. This is a great way to help save the planet, one delicious bite at a time!

Clean and prepare the fresh squid: Pull the tentacles away from the body, remove the quill from inside, and discard. Clean the body by running it under a tap or cleaning it in a bowl of water.

Haemul Pajeon with Dipping Sauce

Makes 4-6 Pancakes

PREP TIME: 20 minutes

COOK TIME: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups buchimgaru (Korean pancake) mix

1 1/2 tsp salt

2 cloves garlic, grated

1 tbs roasted sesame seed oil

2 3/4 cups ice water

2 eggs

4 ounces each: squid, octopus, shrimp, and scallops, cut into small pieces no larger than 1”

2 bunches scallions, halved with root ends discarded

1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

4 ounces red chilis, thinly sliced

1/4 cup vegetable oil

DIPPING SAUCE:

1/4 cup soy sauce

1 tbsp rice wine vinegar

1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

1 clove garlic, grated

1/2 tsp gochugaru flakes (Korean red chili flakes)

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, mix together buchimgaru mix, salt, garlic, sesame seed oil, ice water and eggs. The resulting batter should be a thin consistency, resembling that of crepe batter.

Prepare your area by assembling the seafood, scallions, and peppers near your stove top. Preheat vegetable oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium high heat. Mix together dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl.

Once the oil starts to shimmer, add 4-6 scallions to the center of the skillet, followed by a small handful of peppers, and finally 2-3 pieces of each type of seafood. Starting in the center, ladle batter over the scallion mixture, enough to cover all the ingredients. Brown for 4 minutes, until pancake has turned a nice golden brown. Flip the pancake over and cook another 3-4 minutes.

Continue with this method, making more pancakes until you have used all your scallions, peppers, and seafood. Serve pancakes immediately with dipping sauce as accompaniment.

MY FRIENDhello,

AN HOMAGE TO ERDAL OKUMUS AND CAFE CALYPSO

BY: EMMA COMERY PHOTO BY: LILLIAN REITZ

In the beginning, it was the early ’90s and Cafe Calypso was a twoby-five coffee cart in a bookstore. Husband-and-wife team Erdal and Marcy worked side-by-side amid the shelves of Half Price Books, roasting, brewing, and serving coffee seven days a week, well before coffee shops were part of Corpus culture.

These days, Cafe Calypso is a charming brick-and-mortar enjoying a space of its own, adjacent to the bookstore but still connected by a set of French doors that open into the store. The aromas of 26 international roasts diffuse into the air, wrapping around your skin with cozy nostalgia. At one table, a new mom feeds her baby while chatting with a friend. At another, two gentlemen share a book, deep in discussion. Over by the doors, a teen or two escapes into the pages of a graphic novel. And in the corner, a handful of professionals tap away on their laptops. In the midst of the various grinds and whistles of the barista’s studio, the quick click and clank of an oatmeal cookie jar opening and closing, owner Marcy Okumus takes a break to join me at a small table.

Were this interview ten months earlier, Marcy would have had her teammate by her side. “I met Erdal by accident in the lobby of a Turkish B&B,” she tells me. “I was travelling alone, and he offered to show me around. I ended up staying in Turkey longer than I thought.” Long enough for friendship to grow into love; long enough to get married. After a few years, they decided to move back to Corpus with the goal of opening a coffee shop. Erdal had been roasting coffee for years, and they dreamed of having a coffee shop in a bookstore. Cafe Calypso is that dream come true.

Over time they developed their business to feature authentic Turkish coffee and roasts from around the world, plus delicious pastries inspired by European desserts and recipes from Erdal’s mother. “We wanted our shop to be a sort of United Nations where we brought different cultures together,” Marcy explains. “It was definitely unique for Corpus at the time. Plus, Erdal brought Turkish business customs, always greeting everyone who walked in, ‘Hello, my friend.’”

That strength of welcoming spirit not only is integral to who Marcy and Erdal are as people, but has come to define Cafe Calypso. “The people who came here as kids when we first opened now bring their own kids here,” she says. “It made us feel really lucky.” Cafe Calypso has even hosted three (three!) weddings for couples who first met over coffee or a book there.

For Marcy and Erdal, it’s always been about people. Throughout the trajectory of Cafe Calypso, the couple naturally experienced those inevitable moments of craving expansion, asking what if and why not. They bought warehouses for roasting, opened an additional location

in Dallas … but every time they worked toward more, it meant less time with each other. So they’d pull back. Erdal would tell a story: There was a great fisherman, and everyone would tell him to get a bigger boat so he could catch more fish and sell the extra fish. “Why?” the fisherman would ask. “So you can do what you want to do,” they would say. And the fisherman said, “I am doing what I want to do.”

And they were happy.

Then, while Erdal was on a solo trip to tend to the couple’s property in Turkey, everything changed. “I could hear it in his voice,” Marcy remembers. “He had a cough, and something was just not right.” Stage Four cancer. All of a sudden, Erdal was 53 years old and terminal.

Marcy doesn’t talk much about those final months, but she smiles as she remembers Erdal’s strong opinions about what she should do once he was gone. “He would tell me, ‘I just want you to travel and enjoy yourself.’ He was cremated, and he said, ‘Please travel and take me with you, because I want to see it, too. Leave a part of me everywhere we go.’”

Marcy is looking forward to traveling in the future, but for now she is still reconfiguring her reality, finding her new normal. “I can’t really work with anyone else the same way,” she admits. “I’m so used to working right alongside him, bumping elbows, scooting around each other behind the counter. We had a rhythm.”

She shares one of Erdal’s favorite Turkish sayings: Nereden nereye. Roughly, “from where to where.” She thinks about this phrase often, about the journey from Corpus to Turkey and back again, how easily she and Erdal could have lived entire lives without ever meeting, without opening this little coffee shop that, for so many of us, has become a place of communion.

As we talk, I keep looking back at the wall beside me. Marcy has pinned 30 years worth of photos of Erdal and herself onto the wall, creating a collage that tells this love story far more beautifully and personally than this writer ever could. So, I urge you, go see for yourself. With a cup of Turkish coffee in your hands and a loving feeling in your heart – just as Erdal would.

Contact: 5425 S Padre Island Dr #185 | 361.993.5282

CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE, P.A. “Making Lives Better”

Gabriel Lopez, M.D.

Gabriel Lopez, M.D. Board

in Pain Medicine

Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Rudy Garza, M.D.

Rudy Garza, M.D.

Are you suffering from Chronic Pain?

Dr. Lopez may be able to help.

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

* Treating all types of chronic pain

* 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.

* Both Drs. are fluent in Spanish

• 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 Board Certified in

SPID Corpus Christi, TX 78415

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

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

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.

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) 361.225.0089 • www.ccpainmed.com •

“Dr.Mihalik

Referral Necessary • Insurance Accepted Payment plans available - 0% financing Traditional Braces and Clear Tray Invisalign for Children, Teens, and Adults

bless”

Success Story: Post-Acute Rehabilitation Hospital

By Jacqueline Gonzalez

Prior to discovering he had cancer, Tom Speaker’s days were filled with work, spending time with his grandkids, and taking evening boat rides with his wife. With over 40 years spent working in various aspects of the food industry, Tom developed a heavy customer base, but also made life-long friends, so other pastimes included fishing, relaxing on the beach, and watching football with his best friend and main fantasy football opponent.

In September of 2018, his life took a dramatic change when he began experiencing difficulty moving his tongue to the right side of his mouth. After visiting his doctor, an examination revealed a rare form of cancer growing on his tongue. This form of cancer does not respond to chemotherapy, so surgery was the only option. Since the form and location of the cancer were rare, there were very few surgeons capable of performing the tongue transplant surgery. Luckily, Dr. Ron Karni with the University of Texas system in Houston was the most capable surgeon and Tom had a chance at recovery. “Luckily, the cancer is slow growing, so we had time to prepare,” says Tom, “but nothing could have prepared us for an almost 21-hour surgery.” Fortunately, for Tom, the recovery was slightly easier with only a nine-day hospital stay and thirty days of radiation treatments.

The radiation treatments were rough, and his doctor explained that his life would change forever — specifically noting that Tom’s voice would never be the same and his

speech would be difficult to understand. After hearing this devastating news, and with the help of his wife, Tom fighting spirit kicked in and he decided that not only would he be understood, but he would return to work and as much of his previous life as possible.

Shortly after, Tom began his speech therapy, but he recalls that after only three treatments, “the therapist said he didn’t know how he could help me.” This led to a new search for a new therapist, and after one visit to the Post-Acute Rehabilitation Hospital, the level of expertise, care, and interest the staff took in their patients made Tom realize he’d chosen the right place. Tom credits the incredible level of expertise of his therapist, Melissa Lopez, in teaching him how to form certain sounds that were initially impossible for him to make, and the level of patience in repeating the lessons to learn those sounds until he was able to be understood. “Melissa also spent a lot of time researching and preparing a plan for each session in order to focus on what I needed to work on.”

He continues to be confident in his progress and looks forward to each session, not to mention returning to work. In addition, each week he tries to add some of the activities he previously enjoyed. With Melissa’s guidance during each session, and the support of his wife, Tom is confident that in just a few months, he will be able to once again enjoy the activities he enjoyed prior to the illness.

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 $

The last soda fountain in Corpus Christi, TX! Although they've expanded and changed over the years, their old fashioned values and friendly service remained the same. 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

TASTE of TOKYO

CLASSIC FAVORITES AND INNOVATIVE CREATIONS ABOUND AT A BRAND-NEW SPOT ON CHAPARRAL

BY: ALEXIS HARBORTH PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Corpus Christi has a new restaurant, and downtown has a new hotspot. The highly anticipated DOKYO Dauntaun has opened Phase One of its Japanese and Korean fusion restaurant.

The unique local spot is the brainchild of owner and chef Kil Lee, who has a long history with Asian food and restaurants. At DOKYO, he’s bringing patrons’ favorite and classic sushi and Japanese recipes to this new location in a way that’s “bigger and better, with more flavor.”

One of which is the barbeque beef don. “It’s our most popular. The barbeque beef don is a stone bowl coated with sesame oil, with marinated beef, rice, and stir-fry vegetables with a sunny-side egg on top.”

In addition to those scrumptious staples of the menu, Lee is excited to also bring fresh new dishes to the Coastal Bend.

“I added a Korean barbeque section. It has short ribs, long bone ribs, pork belly, side dishes, and more,” Lee lists.

The variety of flavors is a core concept of DOKYO. That’s because the idea of fusing concepts and flavors is literally in the name itself.

“The meaning of ‘DOKYO’ is fusing different elements together.” Lee explains. “That means many things to me.” He went on to describe how it symbolizes the team, which has come together like a family. It also illustrates the style of food on the menu.

“Even though we do Japanese food here, we also do Korean dishes. We also fuse some altogether, and the result is really good.”

But be sure to save room for dessert, which will feature something that the city has possibly never seen before: Bingsu, which is like shaved ice with a twist, is topped with a heaping variety of fruits and sweets.

“I like doing different things,” Lee says with a grin. The local community is well aware of this by now.

It will all be enjoyed in an atmosphere that’s as fresh as the food itself. The modern and intimate design features gray tones and amber lights, offset by a colorful floorto-ceiling art piece against the back wall. When asked how he describes the look of the room, Lee immediately responds, “Industrial cement chic.” That’s because the ceiling dome lights and tables are all actually made from cement.

The dining room, which seats more than 65 people, is just the beginning for DOKYO. Phase Two, which is set to open by this fall, will present an entirely new room of the restaurant. In keeping with the yin and yang of the restaurant’s inspiration, the upcoming side will have a completely different look than its neighbor. It will feature wood and a warmer atmosphere, creating a balance with the industrial look of the first dining room.

From the inside out, DOKYO is no doubt Corpus Christi’s latest Instagram-worthy place. And if a picture is worth 1,000 words, the mural of DOKYO is a novel. An instantly recognizable beacon on Chaparral Street, DOKYO’s colorful, exterior mural depicts blossoming flowers and a little of Tokyo created by local artist, Jeremy Flores.

From the food to the building to the mural, Corpus Christi has gained a masterpiece with DOKYO. And for Lee, downtown was the only place that made sense for it. “We like it here. It’s a unique part of the city, with its wall murals and the arts district. It’s a cool vibe.”

Open for lunch and dinner, DOKYO is a great spot to find a delicious meal, eyepopping desserts, and a one-of-a-kind local experience.

Contact:

424 N. Chaparral St., Corpus Christi, TX @dokyo_dauntaun_cc

Did you know Radiology Associates has 3 Radiologists who are Fellowship-trained in Musculoskeletal Radiology?

Our MSK team received advanced training in all aspects of orthopedic imaging; including trauma, oncology and sports medicine, and also rheumatologic imaging. This advanced training, paired with our state-ofthe-art imaging equipment provides exceptional and unrivaled images for any musculoskeletal issue.

Left Dr. Hanus; Center Dr. Matejka; Right Dr. Craft

MEET OUR MSK TEAM

Dr. Kenneth D. Matejka, MD attended Florida State University where he played football for the Hurricanes. After graduation, he attended the University of Miami – Medical School. His residency led him to Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation in New Orleans where he studied General Surgery. He then received his fellowship training in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at Ochsner which included musculoskeletal radiology and other studies. He has lived in the Corpus Christi area since he joined the Radiology Associates team 17 years ago.

Dr. Alexander J. Craft, DO is a Corpus Christi native who attended Flour Bluff High School. After graduation, Dr. Craft received a full scholarship to play basketball for Southern Methodist University. After receiving his BS in Biomedical Science from SMU, he also received a master’s degree in Biomedical Science from the University of North Texas in Dallas. His studies then led him to Medical School at the University of North Texas Health Science Center where he received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine in 2011. He completed an internship and residency in Diagnostic Radiology at Franciscan St. James Health in Illinois. Following his residency, Dr. Craft earned a Fellowship at Duke University Hospital where he continued his studies in Musculoskeletal Radiology. Dr. Craft joined the Radiology Associates team in 2017.

5742 Spohn Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Dr. Bryan Hanus, MD grew up in the Corpus Christi area. He received his undergraduate degree from The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition. Medical school led him to Houston where he attended UT Health Science Center at Houston Medical School. He received an internship in General Surgery at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, TN. His residency took him to Baylor University Medical Center to study Diagnostic Radiology. After residency, he began his fellowship training in Musculoskeletal Radiology in Kansas City, KS. Dr. Hanus joined the Radiology Associates team in 2019.

SIX POINTS IMAGING CENTER

1812 S. Alameda, Corpus Christi, TX 78404 NORTHWEST

3929 River East Dr., Corpus Christi, TX 78410

PORTLAND

3929 River East Dr., Corpus Christi, TX 78410

1776 Billy G. Webb Dr., Portland, TX 78374

LOOKING BACK

Bird Island’s Annual Visitors

BY: JILLIAN BECQUET PHOTO COURTESY OF: CORPUS CHRISTI PUBLIC LIBRARIES

When we stroll the bayfront and see white pelicans swooping down for a snack, we don’t think anything of it. They’re a constant presence in Corpus Christi, but that’s actually extraordinary. The traditional breeding grounds of the American White Pelican lie above 40 degrees north, the dividing line between Nebraska and Kansas. Only a few recurrent nesting grounds have been documented south of this line.

One of these breeding populations has been studied by generations of scientists on Bird Island in the Laguna Madre, off Padre Island. Here, a non-migratory population of white pelicans has made its home. One theory is that they may have originated when a few birds didn’t migrate north to their traditional breeding site. So, they stay around Corpus Christi through migration and nesting seasons in late spring and early summer.

Over the last 100 years, local scientists have been charged with visiting Bird Island to observe the number of adult birds, nests, and hatchlings. The birds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, but that doesn’t stop habitat loss, boats, poaching, entanglement in fishing gear, and the draining and pollution of wetlands from threatening their nests and their safety. Monitoring of this population is important to make sure we keep them safe.

When you see a white pelican during breeding season this spring, think of how special it is that we get to see them year-round in Corpus Christi – and make sure you’re doing all you can to keep our shore birds safe.

Photographer Karl Swafford captured the flocks of white pelicans in this 1921 postcard.