September 2021 Issue by The Bend Magazine

DISCOVER THE HISTORY BEHIND 10 OF THE COASTAL BEND'S MOST ICONIC STREETS, SITES, AND STRUCTURES

The Fulton Mansion was built in 1877 and is preserved by the Texas Historical Commission

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Left to right: Renee Solomon (Private Banking), Jennifer Grove (Private Banking), Bryan Grove (Wealth Management*) and Gina Ulisse (Wealth Management*).

WHERE ISLAND LEARNING MEETS ISLAND LIVING

At Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, you can learn from nationally recognized faculty and gain hands-on learning experiences. We offer a supportive environment designed to help students succeed. It is a close-knit community with big opportunities in a beautiful coastal setting.

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PRESIDENT

Jordan Regas

VICE PRESIDENT

Kaley Regas

PUBLISHER

Chris Knapick

ART

DIRECTOR

Jarred Schuetze

EDITORIAL

DIRECTOR

Kylie Cooper

ACCOUNT

EXECUTIVE

Gloria Stauber

COPY EDITOR

Steve Gill

SENIOR WRITER

Kirby Conda

LEAD

PHOTOGRAPHER

Rachel Benavides

PHOTOGRAPHY

Deux Bohéme

Aaron Garcia

Jason Page

Lillian Reitz

CONTRIBUTORS

Luis Arjona

Monica Benavidez

Jillian Becquet

Justin Butts

Kayla Butts

Leslie Castro

Jessie Chrobocinski

Jacqueline Gonzalez

Katy Jones-Gulsby

Julieta Hernandez

Jo Anne Howell

Mark Gregory Lopez

Josh Maxwell

Terrie Moore

EDITORIAL INTERN

Tom Benoit

Q: If you could pick a Coastal Bend landmark to restore to its former glory, which would it be and why?

CK:

Having visited many landmark theatres around the country, it would be cool to restore Centre Theatre to its former grandeur. There is something special about attending a show or watching a movie in a beautiful theatre draped in the richness of its former days versus the somewhat sterile theatres of today.

LA: Designed by the prominent architect Richard Colley, who was originally from Corpus Christi, the Memorial Coliseum was a marvel. The building was historically important as a cultural agent in our city. The locale was ideal and I can picture it today serving as a multi-use facility housing a variety of vendors, food, fresh markets, events, and more.

BEHIND THE COVER:

JB: A restored

would benefit the local economy and people of all ages. Music, theatre, movies… community! Our downtown needs a space like the Ritz!

Looking just as marvelous as it did in 1877, the Fulton Mansion as it stands today is seen on our cover this month. Originally built for the Fulton family, the structure resembles the likes of French Second Empire architecture, making it one of the earliest of its kind in Texas, and one of the grandest standing today. Photography by: Lillian Reitz

Ritz Theatre

The Test of Time

Time is an interesting concept. It plays with our perspective. The passing of time forces us to think both retrospectively and prospectively: It creates memories, but it also pushes us forward to plan for new ones to be made. Our history is wrapped up in time periods, segmented away by other increments of time to create years and decades and centuries.

With time, growth tends to happen—and believe me, the Coastal Bend is growing. A new building or subdivision or infrastructure development pops up seemingly every day. Yet, as our community grows, it’s important to remember the special landmarks that have called this area home for much longer than we have. It’s essential to remember the buildings, people, street corners, and parks that have contributed to not just what our cities look like today, but the rich history that will forever be wrapped up in the Coastal Bend’s story.

In each issue since 2016, readers are given a small glimpse into that story on the second to last page. “Looking Back” has always been one of my favorite sections in the magazine. It’s there that I learned of Corpus Christi’s resident documenter Doc McGregor for the first time, and the outlandish, yet still somehow relatable, Ada Wilson. It’s in that section that

a lot of you might have learned a piece of our region’s history that you hadn’t previously known. We can all thank Jillian Becquet, our resident history buff, for providing us with these lessons each month. Greater than her wealth of knowledge is her fervent passion for our city’s past; she understands how crucial it is to not only share stories, but protect and preserve the places that create those stories in the first place. That fact is what led us to The Landmark Issue.

Landmarks, as Jillian states in “Landmark Achievement” beginning on page 32, are each someplace special. They allow us to walk in the footsteps of people who made our community what it is today. They are tangible pieces of history, each with their own unique story. Some stand tall, like the Fulton Mansion; while others are spread wide, like the Corpus Christi Seawall.

While each landmark differs in its intended purpose and stature, one of the things they all provide us with today is a reminder of who we are and where we’ve been. There is a responsibility, too, when it comes to these structures, sites, and street corners: We have to protect them, both for the sake of generations past and future. “In order to have landmarks in the future,” Jillian writes, “we must also care for those things we’d like to see make it to 50 years and beyond, so they will be here to treasure then.”

Be it the landmarks you’ll learn about inside this issue or one of your favorite new buildings you hope is still standing decades from now, it’s up to us to make sure the structures that helped to craft our city are given the respect and admiration they deserve. With this issue, we invite you to travel through time with us—to not only pay homage to a few of the main characters in our history that have stood the test of time, but to remind us all that preserving what we have now for generations to come is just as important as building anew.

Kylie Cooper, Editorial Director kylie@thebendmag.com

THREE TAKEAWAYS

EVERY BUILDING HAS A STORY

With the Instagram account PreserveCCTX, Jessica Holt aims to share the history of iconic landmarks in our area. The goal of the account is to remind people of long-forgotten architectural gems in the region and the importance of

ON ISLAND TIME

Capping the summer season off with a refreshing cocktail from local tiki bar Lelo’s Island Bar is definitely on my list of to-do’s. Their drinks are both fun and innovative, and have the ability to transport you straight to the beach. Pg. 108

A PERSON'S PORTRAIT

Born out of his fascination with people and the human experience, local Stephen Wincelowicz created People of Corpus. The ongoing portrait series includes photographs of people in our city and first person anecdotes written by

TIMELESS TURQUOISE

BY: LESLIE CASTRO PHOTOS: DEUX BOHÈME

From ancient Egypt to the ancestral pueblos of the Southwest, turquoise has been prized as an adornment for centuries. Whether you choose to wear it for protection, for healing, or simply to add a pop of color to your outfit with its vivid hue (which can range from powder blue to deep green) you will be making an iconic style statement.

When considering how best to showcase your turquoise jewelry, look no further than nature for inspiration. The cool hue is a natural pairing with warm earth tones like terra cotta, sand, and rust. If you favor a classic approach, there is no better canvas than crisp white or denim. Remember to select solid colors as a base, as too many loud or complex patterns will compete for focus; conversely, textural details within the same color can add interest and depth.

As with all statement jewelry, be mindful of balance. A good first step when styling your jewelry is to select a focal point, and build out from there.

To keep the look fresh and nuanced, layer delicate pieces with bold, chunky elements, but be mindful of visual weight; too many heavy pieces in one portion of your frame can overwhelm your entire presence.

From casual to elegant, there is a turquoise touch to suit all tastes and types.

STYLING/CONCEPT: LESLIE CASTRO

MODELS: JALYN CASAREZ @MOONLIGHTWOVEN LEANA SAGUINSIN @LFINEZ.IS

CLOTHING: JULIAN GOLD

JEWELRY PROVIDED BY: 20/20 VINTAGE, RUBEN CASTILLO @STXNATIVEDESIGNS, LEANA’S BRAND, @LFINEZ.LS SILVER

WONDERLAND

Off with their heads! Get lost in Wonderland by channeling the bold aesthetic of the one and only Queen of Hearts. Lean into regality with rich shades of black, red, and gold paired with luxurious creams and whites.

1. Layton Gold Statement Necklace In Red Oyster Kendra Scott 2. Tory Burch Gingham Tote Bag Julian Gold 3. Gold Tone Stainless Steel Chain Pocket Watch Macy's

4. Cream Velvet Wingback Chair Chic to Chic 5. Classic Set of Playing Cards Half Price Books 6. Royal Crown Derby Old Imari Coffee Pot Park Seven

7. Croquet Set Dick's Sporting Goods 8. Red Rose Bush Gill Garden Center + Landscaping Co

stay connected

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Sip & Savor Newsletter

Did you know we have a weekly newsletter all about the local food and drink scene? Sip & Savor drops every Tuesday afternoon and sends the latest in cuisine scene news straight to your inbox! From a roundup of new establishments opening and fresh menu additions to recipes and guides on how to satisfy your cravings, this newsletter has it all. Subscribe to receive Sip & Savor now by going to thebendmag.com.

The Road to Employment

HOW EDUCATION TO EMPLOYMENT PARTNERS HELPS PEOPLE RECAPTURE THEIR DREAMS BY: TOM

BENOIT

More than 250,000 people in the Coastal Bend have some type of college experience but no degree. While this statistic may seem daunting, Education to Employment Partners (E2E), formerly known as Citizens for Educational Education, aims to tackle it and help those people move forward.

Dr. Janet Cunningham, executive director of the 501(c)3 non-profit, says the organization has three “buckets.” The first bucket is bringing information and resources to reach, as their name suggests, education and employment attainment. Another bucket is to serve the community by holding conferences and working for more than 42 school districts around the Coastal Bend. The third bucket is serving under mayor Paulette Guajardo as the education designee for the City of Corpus Christi.

Cunningham’s background includes being a teacher, principal, and central office administrator. She got her start working in Corpus Christi, but has worked in education around the Coastal Bend region.

Working under the mayor’s office, E2E developed an education workforce strategic plan for the City of Corpus Christi. The strategic plan is threefold: to align Pre-K through post-secondary education all the way, using data to create a compelling message of why education is important in the Coastal Bend, and to really work on business and education partnerships to help prepare students to be in the workforce.

Jeff West, the director of programming and operations at E2E, explained that one of the most critical programs E2E puts on is its Recapture Your Dream mission. The program is focused on helping adults who have attended college in the past but, for some reason, did not finish their degree. The Recapture Your Dream program helps adults through the process of postsecondary education. Whether that be trade school or college, the program works with people to overcome financial and other obstacles that may be blocking their path to success.

Another big part of E2E is working with middle and high school students in the Coastal Bend as part of the P-16 Council, a council that promotes seamless pathways from pre-kindergarten all the way through post-secondary education.

Because of the emphasis on the urban areas of the Coastal Bend, Cunningham noted that the rural areas often fall short. E2E aims to combat this by helping students in rural areas. E2E places advisors in schools in the more rural cities of the Coastal Bend, such as Beeville, Alice, and Sinton for this reason.

Cunningham added that E2E works so well because of its great board. The board of directors, made up of 17 members, includes key education people such as the Calallen ISD superintendent. Cunningham said this is because the members on the board are driven to improve education, which is E2E’s goal at the end of the day.

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THE POST

writer recommendations

Horchatas

BY: JESSIE CHROBOCINSKI

PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

COMMONLY REFERRED TO AS THE "DRINK OF THE GODS," HORCHATA IS AN UNSURPRISINGLY POPULAR DRINK FULL OF HEALTH BENEFITS—RICH IN PHOSPHORUS, CALCIUM, MAGNESIUM, IRON, AND VITAMINS C AND E, AND HELPFUL FOR RELIEVING AN UPSET STOMACH AS IT’S FREE FROM LACTOSE, CASEIN, AND GLUTEN. ORIGINATING IN VALENCIA, SPAIN, HORCHATA IS MADE FROM RICE THAT HAS BEEN GROUND, PULVERIZED, STRAINED, AND SWEETENED. EVERYWHERE THIS ORIGINAL ALT-MILK IS SERVED, YOU'RE SURE TO FIND A PARTICULAR UNIQUE FLOURISH. FROM TRADITIONAL HOMEMADE RECIPES TO COFFEE BLENDS, HERE'S A TASTE OF SOME OF THE DIFFERENT HORCHATA OPTIONS AVAILABLE AROUND TOWN.

EL JALISCO GRILL

Dive into a delicious experience at El Jalisco Grill, where the extensive menu offers options for everyone in the family. Enjoy one of many hearty Mexican dishes that pair excellently with its refreshing homemade horchata.

1813 ENNIS JOSLIN RD #113

WIRED COFFEE CO.

This corner coffee shop, known for "shockingly good coffee," offers a stimulating spin on the adopted horchatabased coffee taste. Especially delightful during warmer months, Wired Coffee Co.'s Horchata Frappe brilliantly blends a creamy latte with cinnamon-sweetness to perfection.

6133 ENNIS JOSLIN RD UNIT 103

THE TRADE CENTER

Many Coastal Bend residents consider The Trade Center the end-all, be-all for authentic Mexican finds. Many locals find themselves at the center on

the weekends—not just for the scratchmade gorditas, but for the plethora of homemade horchata options throughout.

2833 S PADRE ISLAND DR

BIEN MÉRITÉ

Bien Mérité’s take on the classic horchata delivers an extra-yummy twist with all of the comforting spices of chai. The Horchata Chai pairs brown sugar and cinnamon with chai spice, making it a tasty concoction hot or iced.

1336 S STAPLES ST

LA PALMA

Breakfast tacos and homemade horchata are the best things to spice up your morning at La Palma. Located near Whitecap Beach, this budget-friendly eatery packs delicious food and even better horchata, making it an ideal spot to hit up on the way to the waves.

15326 S PADRE ISLAND DR

Monica Garcia

THE WOMAN BEHIND THE BLOG CC BUCKET LIST, HER MUST-HAVE LOCAL ITEMS, WHERE SHE FINDS INSPIRATION, AND MORE BY: KYLIE COOPER PHOTOS BY: AARON GARCIA

KC: What inspired you to start CC Bucket List?

MG: In the summer of 2019, I was on the couch watching TV, scrolling on my phone. As I scrolled through Instagram, I realized there was so much of Corpus Christi I had yet to truly experience, even as a local. Follow after follow, save after save … I decided to get off the couch and get out on the town to get to know my city a little better. What started as a summer staycation, sharing my adventures with family and friends, is what eventually led to creating the CC Bucket List as a public platform for all.

KC: What is your favorite part of running CC Bucket List?

MG: My favorite part is that it’s less about me and more about highlighting what makes our city so uniquely beautiful by showcasing businesses and local artistry. When I say businesses, I'm talking about the market day vendors, food trucks, local restaurants, recreational activities, and retail shops across the Coastal Bend. Just one person saying “I didn't know that was there!” or tagging a friend “Let’s go!” is the best part of running CC Bucket List.

KC: What do you think the importance of supporting local is?

MG: Through my adventures, I have discovered that local businesses are the creative heartbeat of our city. Every shop, brewery, and restaurant has its own uniqueness that sets Corpus Christi apart from the others. With every step I've taken walking into a local establishment, I have truly discovered a sense of community unlike any other. With the support of locals, entrepreneurs are more likely to bring their ideas to fruition and continue to expand the culture and diversity of our community in the Coastal Bend.

KC: What do you look to for inspiration when finding and creating new content?

MG: When creating content, I look for things that spark joy. Many times, it’s food; I'm not going to lie. As a self-proclaimed foodie, I love trying different types of cuisines and drinks and being able to showcase diverse restaurants from across the Coastal Bend. I like getting out of my comfort zone and trying something for the first time. In turn, I hope followers are inspired to try it, too! Whether it is a fun mural photo op, local events, or just having a relaxing day at the brewery, I’m always looking for ways people can make and share memories with each other while they are living/visiting.

KC: If someone were to ask you to plan an itinerary for the perfect local day, what spots would be included?

MG: The perfect day would begin with a morning paddle board class at Water Dog Yoga, taking in the beautiful marina and getting some fun outdoor activity in. Next up, a delicious brunch at The Post (the chicken and waffles are a must). After that, it’s time to walk it off with some shopping! Vintage shops are my go-to spots for finding one-of-a-kind pieces for my wardrobe. Corpus Christi Vintage Guide is a great resource for mapping out where to shop.

If there is a market going on, be sure to check it out! My favorite way to end the day: watching the sunset and listening to live music down at the Waterline at Doc’s.

KC: What do you love most about working and living in the Coastal Bend?

MG: Even on my busiest day of work, I’m having so much fun. I love what I do and I love being able to share it with others. I think that is a similar mindset you will see with most businesses in the Coastal Bend. Over the past two years, I have met so many business owners beaming with pride, eagerly waiting to welcome in all who enter through their doors and so appreciative of local support. Knowing you are always welcomed wherever you may go is a beautiful way to live.

KC: What are a few local must-have products you recommend?

MG: Beauty: Lemonade Stand Cosmetics has quickly taken over my makeup bag. I can’t go a day without my Lemonade Cosmetics Daily Moisturizer & Setting Spray! I also use the lip scrub in my weekly self-care routine. Jewelry: A signature statement earring is a must for my outfits. Eclectic Birdy, Little Shop of Leather, RC Clay Designs, Chia, and That’s What She Crafted are some of my favorite local vendors to visit on market days. Local Pride Tees: My two favorite shops for showcasing Corpus Christi pride are Made in Corpus Christi and Elevated Screen Printing.

KC: What does the future hold for CC Bucket List?

MG: Oh, now that’s a good question! I’ll say this, every step thus far has been an incredible journey of unexpected personal growth. As I explore the city, I learn a little bit more about myself and reflect on the impact I want to make in my community. Even if my role is small, I am honored to have the outlet to voice our city in a positive light. Now that the community has gotten to know a little bit about me, I’m truly looking forward to building meaningful relationships with business owners, locals, and visitors. Our Sparkling City by the Bay has such beautiful promise for the future and I will be right there with my camera in hand to capture it all.

Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital has provided the covid vaccine to our staff to ensure continued efforts to make our facility a healing environment for everyone.

Historical Landmarks

of the coastal bend

SEPTEMBER 1ST, 2021

LANDMARK ACHIEVEMENT

DISCOVER THE HISTORY BEHIND 10 OF THE COASTAL BEND'S MOST ICONIC STREETS, SITES, AND STRUCTURES

WRITTEN BY JILLIAN BECQUET

Simply put, a landmark is someplace special. Landmarks are places where you walk in the footsteps of people who made your community. They built them, protected them, and in some cases dedicated their lives to them. Landmarks in turn create the things that make our community a place people want to live.

A landmark doesn’t have to stand tall, like the Harbor Bridge. It doesn’t have to be an expensive piece of real estate or a building from when our roads were paved in oyster shells. By general definition, landmarks just need to be 50 years old. But in order to have landmarks in the future, we must also care for those things that we’d like to see make it to 50 years and beyond, so they will be here to treasure then.

Whether it’s sitting down for a meal on a street corner that’s seen many lives or just taking a walk past a structure decades older than you, you’re setting foot somewhere generations before you have, as well – and that is something special.

Top: Ritz Theatre, 1936 Middle: City Hall, Peoples Street, 1938. Bottom: Artesian Square, early 1900s. Images Courtesy of La Retama’s Local History Room, Special Collections and Archives.

HL CENTENNIAL HOUSE

The Centennial House is older than the City itself. Nearing 170 years old, this house holds the title of Corpus Christi’s oldest surviving home in its original location. The Britton-Evans Home was built in 1849-50 by Forbes Britton, a statesman and businessman who came to Corpus Christi with General Zachary Taylor during the Mexican War. Returning to the city to settle, Britton purchased the site for this Greek Revival-style home from the city’s founder, Henry Kinney. Britton sold the home at the start of the Civil War. It was used as a hospital by both sides at various times, as well as an officer’s mess hall. After the war, it returned to use as a family home for several owners including the Evans family, who called it home for nearly 50 years. Mrs. Evans replaced the

original spiral staircase and added electricity, with the wiring installed in the basement and run beneath the floors. The Evanses sold the building to the Southern Minerals Corporation, which maintained the building from 1936 until it built a new headquarters on N. Upper Broadway.

Since being purchased by the Corpus Christi Area Heritage Society in 1965, Centennial House has stood as a museum in tribute to Corpus Christi’s early beginnings. When tours resume following their suspension for COVID-19, you’ll once again be able to view the inside of Corpus Christi’s oldest home, but for now you can walk the grounds and take in the same vantage point over the city as so many who came before you.

Centennial House, 1965

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

N. Chaparral, Corpus Christi

Ritz Theatre, 1940

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

Ritz Theatre, 2021 Image by: Jarred Schuetze H NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES

ARTESIAN PARK

EST. 1854

Artesian Park has been a public space longer than there’s been a City of Corpus Christi. The park gets its name from an artesian well drilled on this site by General Zachary Taylor’s army when he and half of the American Army lived here in 184546, awaiting what became the Mexican-American War. Most found that the sulfur-rich well wasn’t good for drinking, but some claimed it held medicinal qualities.

In recognition of the importance of the well and camp, the city’s founder H.L. Kinney deeded the acre surrounding the well to the newly formed City of Corpus Christi in 1854. It is one of the earliest gifts of a public space to a Texas city.

The story of the Ritz can not be told only as a “then” and a “now,” because its story today is one of planning for decades into the future. The Ritz opened at the end of 1929, months after the stock market crash, and provided entertainment to the community for the following 57 years.

For 30 cents for adults and 10 cents for children, Corpus Christi residents could enjoy the elaborate theater while taking in a movie or vaudeville acts. The theater’s interior, designed in the popular “atmospheric” style, features a blue sky with twinkling stars, giving theatergoers

524 TWIGG, CORPUS CHRISTI

In the decades following, this park became the city’s town square. The city and civic groups invested in improvements to the space, including a bandstand for music and speeches, tables and chairs for playing games, a drinking fountain, walkways, benches, and landscaping.

Archaeological digs at the park several years ago unearthed game pieces and other remnants of these decades of service as the town square. It’s continued to develop in its usage recently, gaining lighting, new landscaping and irrigation, and serving as an anchor of ArtWalk—with more improvements to come.

the illusion of being seated beneath an open sky in an exotic Spanish courtyard.

The theater thrived during the Great Depression, providing an important leisure activity to the community. As times changed and screens got bigger, the Ritz adapted and removed the decorative proscenium, a framed opening, from around the stage to make space. Movies continued at the Ritz until 1972.

Two years later, The Ritz Music Hall debuted and hosted some of the nation’s biggest musical acts through the ’70s and ’80s, including Elvis. After its closure more

than 30 years ago, the Ritz has stood waiting for its next act.

Today, it is owned by Corpus Christi PATCH, whose goal is to repair, restore, and revive the historic Ritz Theatre. This project, when completed, will be an economic driver for a revitalized downtown, as historic theaters have been in other cities. Visiting a restored atmospheric theater is like stepping back in time, and you can help make that happen in downtown Corpus Christi by supporting The Ritz.

Left: Artesian Park, 1938 Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

Right: Artesian Square, early 1900s Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

Then & Now

1581 N. Chaparral, Corpus Christi

With a walk through Heritage Park, you can see homes tied to people from every generation to live in Corpus Christi since its founding. None of these homes were built in this location originally; each was relocated to this site from neighborhoods across the city, and they have been restored to their appearance from their time as family homes. The grounds are open to the public and are the site of many popular festivals in Corpus Christi, including the Texas Jazz Festival.

Heritage Park is owned by the City of Corpus Christi, but many local civic organizations have contributed to the homes’ upkeep while they’ve served as tenants since Heritage Park’s opening in 1985. The first three homes were moved to this block in the 1920s, including the Lichtenstein home, which originally stood where the Ritz Theatre is today.

From the Merriman-Bobys House’s (built 1851) open porch and shellcrete fireplace typical of Early Texas regional architecture to the Sidbury’s High Victorian style (built 1893), you can see Corpus Christi’s development from a frontier town to a bustling city during a walk through these homes.

Although no tour is available of the site as a whole, information about each home is on the Texas Historical Markers near each building, and buildings open to the public have posted hours.

TARPON INN

E. COTTER, PORT ARANSAS

Named for the tarpon that were so abundant that people traveled from all over the country to fish here, the Tarpon Inn has welcomed guests since 1886. The original structure was built using lumber from a Civil War barracks, but it met its match with a fire in 1900, and its successor was damaged in the 1919 hurricane.

In 1925, new owner J.M. Ellis rebuilt the structure to resemble the old barracks in the same perfectly coastal style. Today, you can still relax in a rocking chair on what is said to be Texas’ longest covered porch, running the full length of the building.

The engineering to reinforce the Inn against future hurricanes involves pilings placed in concrete at the corner of each room; they run the entire height of the structure, and are attached to the roof. They’ve served the Inn well, as the 1925 structure has stood through every storm since.

More than 7,000 tarpon scales, signed with names, dates, and measurements, line the walls of the Inn as a guestbook of those who visited on their fishing trips. The most famous of these is President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s May 8, 1937 scale from his 5’1” 77-pound catch. The Inn’s

famous restaurant, which brings fine dining to the waterfront, is named Roosevelt’s in his honor. They’ll even cook your catch if you’re one of the many who have come to fish this sportsman’s paradise.

Tarpon Inn, c. 1910s

Image Courtesy of Special Collections, University of Houston Libraries

Then & Now

Top: Heritage Park Opening, 1985

Image Courtesy of the Texas Historical Commission

Bottom: Heritage Park, 2021 Image by: Jarred Schuetze

FULTON MANSION

Overlooking Aransas Bay, among windswept live oaks, stands the magnificent Fulton Mansion State Historic Site. George Fulton built the home, which the family called Oakhurst, and moved his family here in 1877. The French Second Empire architecture makes it one of the earliest of its kind in Texas, and one of the grandest standing today.

George Fulton’s influence is felt across many industries in the Coastal Bend. He was involved in shipping and ranching, and was a patent-holding inventor. His ingenuity found its way into his home through his decision to install state-of-theart amenities, including central heating, gas light-

ing, and indoor plumbing. In a time when many area residents were living a rough life on the frontier, the Fultons’ luxurious home stood out.

The State of Texas bought the home in 1976, and after a major restoration to roll back time and restore the mansion’s appearance and furnishings to the period when it was owned by the Fultons, it opened as a museum in 1983. Today, it is run by the Texas Historical Commission, which undertook major renovations in 2013 and after Hurricane Harvey to bring the home back to its former glory and ready it for visitors.

Fulton grandchildren at Fulton Mansion, c. 1880s Image Courtesy of the Texas Historical Commission NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES

ADA & SAM WILSON HOME

miss what locals know as “the castle house.”

Located at the corner of Ocean and Doddridge, this house unites a famous architect, a Corpus Christi legend, and an owner with the flair for embellishment.

Built in 1937, it was designed by world-renowned architect Richard Colley, who designed many homes and civic buildings across Texas, including Memorial Coliseum. The turret was added later, after Ada Wilson learned of her late husband Sam’s supposed royal lineage during a trip to England.

lier and much of the Italian-style flooring remain in the house today. It has a tunnel to the bayfront that has been closed for safety now, but very little has changed on the exterior of the home.

The contributions of the Wilsons to their city are the true legend here. Convincing the state to purchase Mustang Island for a state park, starting the Ada Wilson Hospital (later merged with Driscoll), owning commercial buildings including the Wilson building uptown, Ada penning the city’s official song—their gifts to this city influenced

the lives of all who live here and those who get to enjoy the beauty of Mustang Island.

Days are numbered for “the castle house,” as its owner, the Ed Rachal Foundation, plans to demolish it and redevelop the site, so plan a drive down Ocean and appreciate the work of Richard Colley and the life of the Corpus Christi legend, Ada Wilson.

Wilson Home, 1977

Image Courtesy of the Corpus Christi Caller-Times

CORPUS CHRISTI SEAWALL

Soon after the incorporation of the city, residents began speculating about what it would take to protect the city and its people from severe weather. The catastrophic damage of the 1919 hurricane coupled with the government’s requirement to build a breakwater to secure the new port finally mobilized action on a seawall.

In 1938, after years of red tape and failed plans, voters approved two bonds to fund the city’s portion of the bill, and engineers Myers & Noyes were signed on. The seawall they designed is a Texas Historic Civil Engineering Landmark, not only for its functionality in protecting the city, but for its ingenuity and unique construction as an “amphitheater to the sea.”

The design called for the addition of 500 feet of land to be added to the bayfront—everything

between the seawall and the previously waterfront Water Street. Next time you’re walking down Water Street and approach an intersection, look toward the bay, and you’ll notice the ground slants slightly upward; 14 feet were added to the elevation at the bayfront with the infill.

The seawall was completed in 1941 and has continued to serve the community as Noyes intended—providing protection and a great view. Walk, bike, or scooter the 1.5 miles of bayfront and take in the sights and sounds of the marina, visit the Selena Memorial, and book a dolphin cruise from Harrison’s Landing on the Japonica (named for a touring boat operating nearly a century ago) to get a view of the seawall and the skyline from the Corpus Christi Bay.

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

Top Right: Seawall Construction, c. 1939-41

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

Main: Seawall, c. 1940s

GALVAN BALLROOM

Then & Now

1930s

424 N. Chaparral, Corpus Christi

H NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES

In the days of big-band orchestras, those orchestras needed a home. Corpus Christi’s largest, the 15-piece Galvan Orchestra, played the opening of the Galvan Ballroom in March of 1950. Rafael Galvan Sr.’s streamline moderne building designed by architect E.E. Hammond has been continuously owned by the Galvan family.

The shows featured performances in both Spanish and English with Black, white, and Hispanic musicians and audiences gathered together during a time when segregation was still common. This positioned Galvan Ballroom as not only a place to find great music, but a melting pot of the community where everyone was welcome.

The 9,000-square-foot ballroom hosted some of the country’s biggest acts, including Tommy Dorsey and his orchestra and Duke Ellington. The house orchestra included Galvan family members as well as incredible musicians who

The last decade has seen much change at this corner, but that’s something this site is used to. Since the 1850s, a slew of businesses have come and gone at the corner of Schatzell and Chaparral Streets. When the city began in the 1850s, it was a two-story wooden building that had been dismantled and shipped from New York, which housed the business headquarters for wool and hide dealer William Headen, operating under his father’s initial, M. Headen and Son.

The wooden building passed through several owners and was known as the Rankin building, serving as a grocery

went on to found the Texas Jazz Festival.

The Ballroom is located on the second floor above the Galvan Music Company, where you can stop in and peruse sheet music or shop for instruments. Walking into the ballroom is like walking back in time, with the big-band Galvan logo in gold on the pink art deco stage, still open to rent for private events.

Top: Galvan Ballroom, 1953.

Image Courtesy of the Rafael Sr. and Virginia Galvan Family Papers, Mary and Jeff Bell Library at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (TAMUCC)

Bottom: Duke Ellington played Galvan Ballroom, 1952

Photo Courtesy of TAMUCC

store, a law office, and several restaurants after a renovation. In the 1930s, the building was demolished and a new one was built at the corner in 1936. It housed Modern Pharmacy and Hall’s Credit Clothiers. By the 1940s, Sun Pharmacy moved in, along with a city bus terminal.

If you’ve been around Corpus Christi for a while, you may have shopped at Lester’s Jewelry, Vo-craft shoes, or the Maverick Market convenience store. In the last 30 years, this building has been home to several restaurants, including Sonja’s Restaurant and Bakery, Urbana, and now Dokyo Dauntaun.

It’s fair to say the builders of this building in 1936 couldn’t have imagined a sushi restaurant inside it, but that’s the beauty of adaptive reuse in the preservation of historic buildings. We don’t have to start over to move into the future.

Left: Sun Pharmacy, July 22, 1943

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

Right: Dokyo Dauntaun, 2021

Image by: Jarred Schuetze

Dokyo Dauntaun

It’s been a Corpus Christi tradition for generations, and has the Texas Historical Marker to prove it. Brothers Method and Rudy Snapka searched the area for a location for their new drive-in restaurant before settling on Robstown after their car broke down there. The first Snapka’s Drive-Inn opened there July 5, 1948, and the business of 20-cent hamburgers grew into a second location, on Leopard Street in Corpus Christi, by 1953.

The family’s business grew to five restaurants with two still operating today, on Leopard and Weber. Just like in the beginning, your food starts cooking when your order reaches the kitchen and is delivered right to your car. Dine during the aptly named Nostalgia Nites, when classic car owners bring added vintage atmosphere to Snapka’s, for an extra step back in time.

Snapka’s serves all the classic foods you’d expect at a drive-in that has done its best to maintain its ’50s vibe: burgers, fries, onion rings, hot dogs, and … tacos. With a custom-made form to fry the taco shells made by Method, Snapka’s was the first in town to sell crispy tacos, starting in 1953.

SNAPKA’S DRIVE-INN

Method Snapka worked at the restaurant he’d devoted his life to building for the rest of his life, and today his wife, Maxine, and daughter, Kathy, aim to keep the Snapka’s Drive-Inn legacy and tradition going for years to come.

Snapka's on Leopard, opened 1953 Image Courtesy of Kathy Snapka

BIG TREE

It’s unusual for a landmark to actually get more impressive with time, but that’s exactly the case with the Big Tree in Rockport, near Goose Island State Park. From 1966 until 2003, it held the record for the largest live oak in Texas, an impressive feat given the coastal winds and 40-plus hurricanes it has survived. During 2011’s drought, firefighters poured nearly 100,000 gallons of water on the tree to save it. Big Tree shows its age after the many struggles of recent years, but is under special care of certified arborists and the Texas Parks & Wildlife department so future generations can witness its grandeur.

Dating a tree that’s still standing is difficult, but estimates of its age are consistently over 1,000 years. According to

the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Big Tree stands at 44’ tall, has a circumference of approximately 35’ 1.75”, a trunk diameter of 11’ 2.25” and a crown spread of 89’. Go take a walk around Big Tree and think a moment about who else has trod on that ground before you: Indigenous people, who fished these shores thousands of years before Big Tree was even a seedling, the French, the Spanish, the Texans, and the visitors from across the world once stood right here.

On your visit to Goose Island State Park, fill your day with walks in nature, bird watching, boating, camping or fishing after your stop at Big Tree to appreciate one of the biggest, one of the oldest, and one of the most special live oaks in the nation.

One thing has been constant amid the changes at this wedgeshaped lot at Mesquite and Peoples Streets: It’s always been a public space. In 1871, Market Hall was built as Corpus Christi’s first public building. Residents shopped for basic goods, including meat and produce from vendors on the first floor.

The second floor was a large hall where the community gathered for social events, including the annual Fireman’s Ball. A bell hung at the west end to summon the all-volunteer firemen to an emergency. In 1911, Market Hall was demolished and a new brick city hall was constructed on the site.

City Hall welcomed residents on Mesquite Street until 1955, when it was remodeled to become La Retama Library. The library was named at its inception after the club that founded it, and the park bears the name today in its honor. The building’s structural issues and the growth of the library led it to move to a new location in 1986, and the 1911 building was demolished.

Big Tree, c. 1940s

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

501 N. Mesquite, Corpus Christi

Big Tree, 1941

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

AMST, 1972

ART MUSEUM OF SOUTH TEXAS

Image from the archives of the Art Museum of South Texas EST. 1972

Today, La Retama Park continues to serve as a public space and has been host to many ArtWalks and farmer’s markets, and most recently the Port of Corpus Christi Holiday Tree’s debut in 2020.

The importance of the Art Museum of South Texas (AMST) lies not only in the museum organization and its collections but in the building itself, which turns 50 in 2022. Corpus Christi had a handful of arts organizations prior to AMST, and art was exhibited and shared with the community starting in the 1930s.

The current building is two structures, both by world-famous architects, that blend seamlessly into one as they connect. The poured white concrete building by Philip Johnson opened in 1972. Johnson’s design is sculptural; an all white building, perched on the edge of the Corpus Christi Bay, with skylights that pour sunlight into the galleries—a piece of art, itself.

The museum flourished in its new location, and by the 1990s, it was outgrowing its space. Modernist architects Legoretta and Legoretta of Mexico City designed the 2006 addition, whose design was approved by Johnson prior to his death in 2005. Its 13 20-foot-tall copper-clad pyramids are now an iconic part of the silhouette, even appearing in the museum’s logo.

Today, AMST provides arts programs for all ages and brings world-class exhibitions to the Coastal Bend. The museum holds thousands of pieces in its permanent collection, ranging from

AMST, 1972

Image from the archives of the Art Museum of South Texas

ancient pottery to contemporary paintings and large installation pieces. The museum offers more than a dozen exhibitions annually, so this is one landmark worth visiting again and again.

1902 N. SHORELINE, CORPUS CHRISTI

Market Hall, c. early 1900s

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

La Retama Library, post-1955

Image Courtesy of La Retama's Local History Room

La Retama Park, 2021

Image by: Jarred Schuetze

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We are proud to have the opportunity to give back to our community and to participate in this partnership that ensures that the Islanders Athletics program receives the highest level of orthopaedic care while also supporting the student athletes.

To find out how you can get involved with the Islanders Athletics Program, call 361.825.3237 and an Islander will assist you.

We look forward to continuing our relationship with the university and their athletes. The Islanders Athletics program is growing and we look forward to being part of their future success.

For over 17 years the Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi has been the Official Orthopaedic Team Physicians to the Islanders

We are proud to announce our recent Exclusive Partnership with Islanders Athletics

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PROUD TO BE THE OFFICIAL ORTHOPAEDIC TEAM PHYSICIANS

A TOAST TO TEXAS

Savoring the standout wines of West Texas and the Hill Country

BY GREG HORTON

ohnson City, Texas, is the gateway to Hill Country wines. The 30-mile stretch of U.S. Hwy 290, when coming from the direction of Austin, that leads to Fredericksburg boasts dozens of wineries and tasting rooms, but nothing about Johnson City indicates what lies west. A local campaign has it as “The Crossroads of Texas Hill Country,” but that’s likely because it would be greedy for Fredericksburg to claim the heart and the crossroads labels, even if it’s true.

Lewis Wines pops up almost as soon as you’re out of Johnson City, and from that point on, it’s a matter of deciding which of the more than 30 wineries and tasting rooms you want to visit—and that’s before you even get to Fredericksburg with its bevy of choices. Coupled with the abundance of cabins, hotels, Airbnbs, and other lodging options, the only obvious choice on the “Wine Road” is eating at Otto’s in Fredericksburg proper, where traditional German food meets upscale casual American dining.

One of the challenges for Texas wineries is to convince consumers that California wines shouldn’t dictate Texas palates, but as Steve Newsom of English Newsom Cellars points out, “California set the American palate.” That means Cab is king, Chardonnay should be buttery and oaky, Pinot Gris should be melon-y and uninteresting, Sauvignon Blanc should be all lemongrass and melon, Pinot Noir should be fruit forward and borderline bombastic, and Moscato should be sweet. Sugar and alcohol are the markers for much of California’s overhyped wine, and Americans love sugar. More than that, though, is the brand and varietal familiarity.

“There’s nothing wrong with indigenous grapes,” Lubbock winemaker Kim McPherson said. “As long as you don’t call them something stupid like ‘Texas Porch Swing Wine,’ they can be good wines.”

McPherson, a graduate of the world-renowned University of California—Davis wine program, is widely believed to be the best winemaker in Texas. (For the record, he calls Andy Timmons of Texas Wine Company the most innovative winemaker in Texas. More on Timmons below.)

When Dave Phinney wanted a “T” wine for his Locations series, he chose McPherson, a man whose connections to the origins of Texas grape-growing are so deeply rooted that the story of Texas wine literally begins in his family.

His father was Clinton “Doc” McPherson, a professor of chemistry at Texas Tech who moved Texas away from indigenous varietals and into world-class wines when he tested varietals at Sagmor Vineyard outside Lubbock in the late ’60s and early ’70s.

“My father tested 140 varietals in Sagmor,” McPherson said. “The first plantings were in 1968. He found out what works in Texas. Climate change has affected some of his findings, and he loved carignan. We couldn’t give it away back then, but now it’s on everyone’s lists.”

States that haven’t been considered traditional wine regions, including Texas, have always struggled with a choice when getting into the wine business: plant popular varietals like Cabernet, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, or go with indigenous varietals. Too many don’t do the hard work that Doc McPherson did. It’s axiomatic for winemakers, if not for consumers, that soil and climate dictate the grapes a region produces, not consumer demand. By testing 140 varietals, McPherson learned that Rhone grapes such as Mourvedre, Viognier, and Carignan, as well as hot weather grapes like Tempranillo, work well in the Texas High Plains.

Critics have taken notice of Texas wines. English Newsom won double gold for its 2018 Viognier at the 2020 San Francisco Wine and Spirits Competition, and the walls at McPherson are covered in awards in addition to its two James Beard nominations. McPherson’s sparkling Chenin Blanc is stunning, even by French standards, but he calls the Tempranillo his flagship. (It’s delicious, but don’t sleep on the Carignan.)

Yes, Lubbock is the pioneer of Texas wine, and more than 80 percent of the grapes used in Hill Country wines still come from the caprock around Lubbock, but Andy Timmons is realistic about the ability of a West Texas town to be the face of Texas wine.

“Fredericksburg determines how the wine culture in Texas goes,” Timmons said. His is not the only Lubbock wine business to open a tasting room in Fredericksburg. One of his labels, Lost Draw Cellars, recently joined forces with William Chris Vineyards to form one company. William Chris is on U.S. Hwy 290; Lost Draw is in Fredericksburg, and both produce some of the best wines in the Hill Country.

In other words, to play the larger game of mattering in Texas, Lubbock has to go to Fredericksburg, at least metaphorically. The wines have to be available in the Hill Country because that’s where wine tourism is now. This is a shame at one level, because Lubbock is a much more food- and art-centric city than many Texans realize. The West Table and The Nicolett, both in downtown Lubbock, create some of the best food in the state. Dining options range from The Nicolett’s stunning outdoor space to West African, traditional taquerias, tapas at La Diosa Cellars (owned by Sylvia McPherson) or the brilliant Latin-inspired bistro Cocina de La Sirena.

The American Viticultural Area system is certain to help Lubbock and Fredericksburg, even though the latter somehow ended up with the Texas-sized “Fredericksburg in the Texas Hill Country AVA” name. The AVA takes into account topography, climate, soil, and other factors that can create a “family resemblance” in wines grown within the same geographic area. Lubbock will benefit by the overwhelming number of bottles with Texas High Plains AVA on the label. Eventually, it just becomes obvious, but the big money is in Fredericksburg, and that will matter ultimately, as will proximity to Austin.

Staying at the Downtown Marriott in Austin puts you two minutes from the highway system and less than an

hour from Johnson City. It allows you the best of Austin and best of Hill Country. Once you get to Hill Country, William Chris is a must. The facility and view are both lovely, and the wines—a combination of Hill Country and High Plains—showcase how far Texas wines have truly come. They make outstanding Grenache and Mourvedre, as well as a delicious Cinsault rosé.

McPherson credits Dr. Richard Becker with introducing Viognier to Texas, where it has thrived. The tasting room is beautiful, and affords the opportunity to try the Viognier, as well as a delicious Texas Riesling.

English Newsom wines are available at The Edge, and the new terraced landscaping makes its tasting room one of the most beautiful in Hill Country. Try the Viognier, of course, but English Newsom may be the only Picardin in the U.S. The fun, light white is a musttry.

Lost Draw is in Fredericksburg, and per Texas Monthly, Timmons’s Counoise rosé was the best in Texas in 2021. It may be sold out when this goes to print, but if so, they make the best Malbec we tried, as well as delicious Mourvedre.

Finally, to sample Hill Country wines and dine in the same place, stop by Southold Farm and Cellar and experience The Kitchen. It’s upscale casual dining with a beautiful view, offering sparkling rosé and Picpoul, another light, fun white.

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My name is Terry Schade and I am a long time local business owner that understands your insurance needs.

My experience includes not only being a US Army Veteran, but also 20+ years in customer service. I am the current President Nominee for the Rotary Club of Corpus Christi and the President-elect for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Corpus Christi. I am a Leadership Corpus Christi Alum (Class XLV) and remain active in the Corpus Christi Mustangs and the Bucaraders Organization. I love our little community and strive to do my part every day to make it a desirable place to live.

We offer auto, home, and renters insurance and being a business owner for many years gives me the experience needed to help with commercial insurance needs as well. We also have the capability to help with financial services to include life insurance. I have the life experience necessary to explain why life insurance is so important!

My wife and I love Corpus Christi, my child attends London ISD and I look forward to helping you protect your future!

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by LILLIAN REITZ

photography

A Greener Diet With a Green Thumb

LEARN FROM LOCAL PROFESSIONALS HOW GREENER DIETS CAN BE INTEGRATED INTO YOUR LIFE BY:

LUIS ARJONA

e can interpret [a] greener diet in two ways; greener as in more fruits and vegetables, and greener as in better aligned with environment and sustainability. In fact, these two are similar. Plant-based food production is less resource-intensive and better for the planet,” said Nishesh Singh, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist working at Texas Health and Human Services as a Clinical Nutritionist. Singh has an affinity for sharing a wealth of information on his Instagram, blog, and upcoming podcast.

Eating whole foods includes a proclivity for plant-based items. However, Singh asserts that one's diet does not require the elimination of meats and dairy, but should have a nice balance with more fruits and vegetables. Increasing intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole foods can change one's life. This would not please many readers, but processed meat is a Group 1 carcinogen (known to cause cancer), and red meat is a Group 2A carcinogen (“probably causes cancer”), warned Singh. He also expresses further caution as meats and dairy are additionally a source of dietary cholesterol. This information is not meant to scare readers, but to educate and inform; "In contrast, whole plant-based foods are full of phytochemicals (antioxidants) that fight cancer and chronic diseases…" said Singh. Balance is vital for a healthier lifestyle. As one is more equipped with information, deciding how to tweak and adjust the fuel for one's body becomes a way to customize one's life.

A greener diet is not only beneficial for one's health, but it offers an opportunity to become more active and enjoy time outdoors. One can begin cultivating a garden and bringing in fresh food from the backyard. The only thing better than farm-to-table is backyard-to-table. Tevin Gray is the owner and operator of Keepers of the Garden

CCTX, an urban garden in northwest Corpus Christi. The garden provides an educational experience for locals to learn about the food they consume and enrich their diets with freshly grown produce. To Gray, a green diet "can be looked at as choosing foods that will offer health benefits to your body, as well as a having an impact on the environment."

Gray also attests to the considerable difference in quality between freshly grown foods versus store-bought. "There is just something special that occurs when you bite into a fresh peach that you picked straight out of the tree, or made a salsa with all of the ingredients from your garden." Acknowledging the importance of a well-rounded diet, Gray goes on to describe "Blue Zones," areas around the world where people live the longest. Within these zones, "you will see they have a majority plant-based diet with minimal animal-based protein," said Gray.

Nourishing the self will be different for everyone. Formulaic advice such as "eat more fruits and vegetables" may sound trite, so Singh recommends starting with minor changes. Increasing the amount of plant-based foods incrementally for consistency is better than significant changes that may not last. The process is about experimentation, and with the help of Gray, experimenting with native plants can make the process rewarding, nutritious, and delicious. He listed a few tasty plants he incorporates in meals, such as Turk's Cap, Barbados Cherry, and Bee Balm.

Both Singh and Gray enjoy incorporating variety in their diet. Still, Singh believes that what one eats should not be restrictive but balanced. With summer coming to a close soon, the Coastal Bend will be ready to grow again. Staying active and small changes in diet go a long way. So, if one is looking to make some changes to dietary consumption, creating a garden and bringing fresh food from the yard can be a fun, motivational way to pivot to more productive plantbased whole foods.

Alissa Peña’s go-to BEAUTY ROUTINE

AN INSIDE LOOK AT THE SALSA QUEEN’S NEVER-FAIL SELF-CARE ROUTINE

BY: ALISSA PEÑA PHOTO BY: LILLIAN REITZ

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Compassionate Care & Stunning Results

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DENTAL PROFILES

Looking for a new dentist or orthodontist?

You have come to the right place. The Coastal Bend offers locals and visitors plenty of reasons to smile, so make sure you love yours! Take some time to meet eight great dentists in the Coastal Bend. They all have their own unique background and approach, but what they all have in common is a passion for helping patients and a love for making people smile

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A University of Texas Health Science Center alum, she also holds a degree in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Iowa. She has raised three girls, and she grows her own vegetables in her backyard garden. An adventurous traveler, Dr. Fischer has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, hiked through the Andes to Macchu Picchu, cycled through numerous European countries, and is currently preparing to backpack the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Dr. Fischer looks forward to caring for you and your family.

ALEXANDER LOBAINA , DDS

ALEXANDER LOBAINA D.D.S.

Dr. Lobaina received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Loma Linda University in Southern California. Shortly after he moved to Texas, where he could be closer to his family and open his own practice. In his relentless pursuit of furthering his education, in 2015, he was awarded a Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Lobaina continues to further his education in the areas of cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, implants restorations and digital dentistry.

Dr. Lobaina takes pride in his well-trained staff, who are committed to providing the best dental care while maintaining a safe and friendly environment. They firmly believe in treating their patients as they would like to be treated themselves and that integrity is an essential part of maintaining successful relationships. Providing dental care his patients need is number one on his list of to-do’s but building long lasting relationships with his patients is the most rewarding part of all.

Dr. Lobaina and his staff strive to provide the highest level of dental care for each of their patients. In order to do this, they will always focus on excellence, through personalized service, cutting edge technology, and industry’s best practices. When you go to Dr. Lobaina for dental care, you can be sure their upmost priority is helping you in the pursuit of your best smile!

5756 S. STAPLES ST., STE. I 361.991.7791 • LOBAINA.COM

ORLANDO

BARRERA,

DDS BARRERA DENTAL

Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Dr. Barrera knows the true meaning of “coming home.” After graduating from Carroll High School, he then received a B.S. in Biomedical Science from Texas A&M University, College Station. Dr. Barrera then attended Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry in Nashville, TN. Upon graduation, he and his wife, Kristi, settled in Houston, TX. For the next 11 years, Dr. Barrera dedicated himself to private practice, continuing education, and volunteer work. But in the back of his mind, there was always a pull back to the Coastal Bend. In 2015, Dr. Barrera moved back to Corpus Christi to serve the people of South Texas. To Dr. Barrera, customer service is at the core of providing quality care to his patients. He treats his patients with the level care and empathy that he would want bestowed upon his own family. One of Dr. Barrera’s greatest distinctions was when he was one of 6 dentists in the state to be nominated for New Dentist of the Year for Texas. He is a member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, and the Nueces Valley District Dental Society.

5756 S. STAPLES ST., STE. H 361.855.1521 • BARRERASMILES.COM

DENTAL PROFILES

DR. COLIN MIHALIK

Dr. Colin Mihalik is a Board-Certified Orthodontist serving Corpus Christi with highly experienced and friendly staff at CC Braces. His mission in the US Air Force was to provide the best orthodontic treatment for our military families around the world. His new mission for the children and adults of Corpus Christi is to provide the best orthodontic care at a great value.

Dr. Mihalik loves seeing the excitement when he presents personalized treatment plans to patients, and of course, when he delivers their brilliant smiles on time! One of his top priorities is punctuality. He stresses seeing patients on time at every appointment and staying on top of each and every treatment schedule. He employs the latest orthodontic technologies and cutting-edge equipment to diagnose and plan personalized treatments.

As a Board-Certified Orthodontist in Corpus Christi, his vast knowledge in orthodontics enables him to create the best treatment options. However, the heart of his practice is the welcoming and caring atmosphere at CC Braces. “CC Braces is more than just treating patients to transform their smiles.” he says, “Caring for patients like family is my goal!”

Dr. Mihalik hand-picked a team of skilled Registered Dental Assistants to provide the best orthodontic care. From monitoring young patients’ growth to treating teens and adults, his goal is to deliver exceptional quality and an incredible orthodontic experience for all his patients. The safety of our patients and staff is Dr. Mihalik’s number one priority. While he keeps the office protocol up-to-date with the safety measures set by the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners, CC Braces appreciates their patients for following guidelines through COVID-19 with understanding, patience, and cooperation. Dr. Mihalik is excited to make CC Braces the “GOTO” orthodontic office in Corpus Christi! Please visit www. ccbraces.com to learn more.

DENTAL PROFILES

EDITH ROJAS, DDS

PEDIATRIX DENTAL

Since a young age, Edith Rojas, DDS, has taken her father’s advice to heart. He was a general surgeon and understood the importance of hard work and preparation and relaying those messages to his daughter. “I watched him being kind and compassionate to others, no matter the long number of hours he had worked,” Rojas said. These are lessons she has transfered over to her practice today.

Rojas is certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentist, and practices at Pediatrix Dental, where she strives to keep a practice both fun and enjoyable for the kids and personal and informative for the parents. They strive to meet the unique needs of children and are committed to providing the best care for infants, children, adolescents, and special needs patients, all while maintaining the highest standards in pediatric dental care.

Dr. Rojas studied at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where she was honored as Valedictorian. When asked what sets her apart from others in the field, she explains how accommodating their design, the space is set up to cater to all the requirements and needs for pediatric dentistry. Pediatrix Dental knows exactly how important it is for parents to feel informed and supported when it comes to their child’s health. “We work as a team with all the medical doctors and therapists involved in our practice in order to provide the best care for children,” she says. “We strive to give them an exceptional experience every time they walk through our doors.”

Dr. Rojas has dedicated a lot of time to pushing for better laws and more awareness in regard to healthcare for those with special needs. “I am both a parent and an advocate for children with special health care needs. I understand the needs of people with disabilities and believe in their abilities. I have worked hard in demanding a better health care environment and lobbied for laws ensuring civil rights for children with special health care needs.”

DENTAL PROFILES

JAMES A. DUNCAN, DDS

PETER MAI, DMD, MS

DUNCAN DENTAL STUDIO

The team at Duncan Dental Studio is always ready to enhance your smile and help you feel taken care of through your dental health journey. Between their two doctors, Dr. James A. Duncan and Dr. Peter Mai, and their excellent team, Duncan Dental is ready to help serve you and your dental health needs.

James A. Duncan, DDS has been practicing dentistry in the Coastal Bend since 1996. Dr. Jim, as his patients refer to him, strives to help others understand that oral health is more than a pretty smile - it’s part of a bigger picture: Our overall complete health and living a happy life. Prior to his dental career, Dr. Jim graduated from Corpus Christi State University in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. He then attended the University of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio with his DDS degree. Dr. Jim is a member of the ADA, TDA, NVDDS, CCDSC, and WCLI, and has received his Mastership in Lasers. When Dr. Jim isn’t busy helping out his patients, he enjoys spending time with his family and embarking on adventures in the outdoors.

Peter Mai, DMD, MS graduated from Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine as president of his class. He enjoys full scope general dentistry, but gained valuable experiences at Yale hospital and later attended Baylor Dallas for his internship year in oral and maxillofacial surgery. As a surgery resident, he worked in the OR, ER, and has experience in implants, sedation, and trauma, which he brings to practice. Dr. Mai is a member of the ADA, TDA, NVDDS, CCDSC, and was recognized by AAOMS in 2018 for outstanding performances in the field. Aside from providing his patients with quality care, Dr. Mai enjoys spending time with his family and chasing the simple life.

DENTAL PROFILES

DR. KUHLMAN

KENNEDY DENTAL

Although Kennedy Dental is a pediatric dentistry office, Dr. Kuhlman is qualified to provide orthodontic treatment to both children and adults. He is happy to help anyone who needs braces. Parents can easily get braces for their children and themselves all in one place. With the introduction of Invisalign for both teens and adults, Kennedy Dental is now taking the ease and convenience of creating a beautiful smile to a whole new level!

After graduating from Ohio State University College of Dentistry, Dr. Kuhlman completed the Tri-Service Orthodontic Residency Program in San Antonio. He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics, the American Dental Association and the Nueces Valley District Dental Society. Currently, he is completing an intensive Invisalign fellowship put on by two of Invisalign’s Elite Orthodontists in the country.

Invisalign offers flexible appointments with up to 12 week intervals, making it easier for busy parents or teens trying to juggle school, work, and athletics. Appointments are typically shorter, only 5-10 minutes in most cases. According to Dr. Kuhlman, teens love the ability to still eat popcorn at movies and easily wear mouth guards for sports. Also, the price gap between Invisalign and braces is quickly closing, and he believes it will only be a matter of preference for the patient in the near future. His goal is to make it easier and affordable for patients.

Dr. Kuhlman credits the incredible staff at Kennedy Dental for the excellent care and attention that every patient receives when they walk in the door. He currently sees patients at Kennedy Dental’s Saratoga and Calallen locations. Dr. Kuhlman looks forward to meeting your family and helping create beautiful smiles.

DENTAL PROFILES

DR. HEATHER GONZALEZ

HEATHER GONZALEZ, DDS

For Dr. Heather Gonzalez, each day is a new opportunity to get to know her patients and treat them holistically based on their individual needs and desires. She strives to educate her patients, of all ages, on the importance of the oral-systemic health connection in hopes of improving her patients’ overall lives by beginning in her area of expertise.

Having called the Coastal Bend home from a young age, she graduated salutatorian of Orange Grove High School, achieved a bachelor of science in biology from Texas A&M University – College Station, and then ultimately graduated from The University of Texas School of Dentistry – Houston.

With the heartfelt goal of wanting to become a dentist since she was five years old, Dr. Heather Gonzalez feels blessed to be working alongside Dr. Kenneth Gonzales and their wonderful team in a state-of-the-art facility with a calming, artistic environment. She is happy to be back home serving her community and welcomes each patient with warmth and gentle hands.

She is passionate about continuing her education to better serve her patients with the latest technology and techniques in dentistry. She is Academy of Laser Dentistry certified, adding several benefits to her treatment modalities. Dr. Gonzalez is also Chairside Economical Restoration of Esthetic Ceramics (CEREC) doctor trained, allowing for delivery of same day crowns, when patients meet the criteria. Another technology that Dr. Gonzalez uses when evaluating her patients is a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). This 3D technology allows her to more thoroughly examine each patient, including their airway. Insufficient airways can lead to several health problems including sleep apnea, grinding of teeth, hypertension, and cardiovascular issues. Once identified, she can offer personalized solutions to help her patients achieve better health. Dr. Gonzalez also offers sedation dentistry. Her goal is to ensure each and every patient has a comfortable dental visit.

Outside of the office, Dr. Heather Gonzalez loves spending time with her three-year-old son, one-year-old daughter, two dogs and, of course, her high school sweetheart husband. She also enjoys traveling, trying new foods, learning Spanish, jewelry making and painting.

Heather Gonzalez D.D.S.

CHAD ALLEN, DDS, MS

ALLEN DENTAL GROUP

Dr. Chad Allen’s extensive background in dentistry ranges from roofless shacks in Mexico to high rise dental practices in Dallas. After completing his dental schooling at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Dr. Allen was selected to the specialty program for prosthodontics. He was fortunate enough to learn from an international array of specialists including time spent in Switzerland studying dental implants at dental schools in Bern and Geneva. Dr. Allen has mentored many predental students here in the Coastal Bend. All of these experiences combine to give him a wide range of skills and knowledge to serve patients.

The staff at Allen Dental Group truly seeks to connect with people in a way that makes them more comfortable. While dental offices tend to make patients feel stressed, the highly skilled and considerate staff at Allen Dental Group is empathetic and sensitive to patient’s needs. Their goal is to treat patients like family. They have all the technology and ability to handle the most complex cases, but it’s their heart for each patient that makes all the difference.

Dr. Allen enjoys getting to know each patient and seeks to earn their trust. He truly enjoys spending time with each patient. He is humbled and amazed by all the people he has met and had the privilege to serve over the years.

Dr. Allen is active in his church, with his children’s school, and is honored to serve our country’s veterans through the VA. Allen Dentists have served South Texas since 1947. Being a third generation dentist, Dr. Allen hopes to continue the line of Allen dentists, possibly bringing on a 4th in the future. Whatever the future holds, Allen Dental Group will always be known for its tradition of excellence, artistry, and personal care in the Coastal Bend.

DENTAL PROFILES

DR. KENNETH GONZALES

KENNETH GONZALES, DDS, PLLC

Dr. Gonzales graduated from Texas A&M, College Station with a B.S. in Biology, and then proceeded to receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center Dental School, San Antonio, the #1 dental school in the nation at the time. He continues to further his education in cosmetic dentistry, adhesion dentistry, dental implants, implant crowns, Invisalign®, SureSmile® CEREC® technology, TMJ treatment, laser dentistry, and obstructive sleep apnea treatment with oral appliances. He has a highly qualified, friendly, and caring staff who understands and follows the doctor’s attitude of genuine appreciation and care for all patients. The entire team continue their dental education along with Dr. Gonzales on the advancements of dentistry to benefit the patients, and themselves as health care providers. They strive to always give the patient the premium experience of high quality, service, and convenience. One of the ways they accomplish this is with CEREC technology, which makes it possible to provide a dental crown in one visit, meaning less time away from work. Dr. Gonzales’s office utilizes CBCT(3-D IMAGING) technology for a more accurate placement of dental implants and to aid, in the diagnosis of other conditions of the mouth and jaws. Dr. Gonzales has held several positions of leadership with The Nueces Valley District Dental Society, the local component of the Texas Dental Association, and with the Corpus Christi Dental Study Club, as well as a member of CERECDoctors.com, and Spear Education an advance dental learning academy. Dr. Gonzales has done several charitable missions for complex and sophisticated dental implant surgeries in the Dominican Republic and other areas of need. As a family man, Dr. Gonzales has a son, Ryker, who is now attending Texas A&M College Station in his Senior year and about to finish his B.S. degree in Biomedical Sciences. He is planning on attending Optometry School after graduation.Dr. Gonzales enjoys dining, dancing, traveling, SCUBA, exercising and weight training with his best friend and wife Wendy, who is a registered nurse.

The future for Dr. Gonzales and team is bright! Patients enjoy their practice location and its proximity to the growing South Side, with comforting office décor and art work, in a ‘state of the art’ facility where science fiction meets science fact. The happiness Dr. Gonzales sees and hears in his patients upon seeing their new smile is what drives him and his team. With every new smile is a chance for a new journey.

“If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?”

This is the question we’ve asked thousands of dentists to help us determine who the topDentists should be. Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies and of course physical results.

The nomination pool of dentists consists of dentists listed online with the American Dental Association, as well as all dentists listed online with their local dental societies, thus allowing virtually every dentist the opportunity to participate. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists that they feel should be included in our list. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias or political motivations and to use only their knowledge of their peers' work when evaluating the other nominees.

Voters are asked to individually evaluate the practitioners on their ballot whose work they are familiar with. Once the balloting is completed, the scores are compiled and then averaged. The numerical average required for inclusion varies depending on the average for all the nominees within the specialty and the geographic area. Borderline cases are given careful consideration by the editors. Voting characteristics and comments are taken into consideration while making decisions. Past awards a dentist has received, status in various dental academies (Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Periodontology, etc.) can play a factor in our decision.

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are checked against state dental boards for disciplinary actions to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Then letters of congratulations are sent to all the listed dentists.

Of course there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in the United States. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists. While it is true that the lists may at times disproportionately reward visibility or popularity, we remain confident that our polling methodology largely corrects for any biases and that these lists continue to represent the most reliable, accurate and useful list of dentists available anywhere.

This list is excerpted from the 2021 topDentistsTM list, which includes listings for dentists and specialists in the Coastal Bend area. For more information call: 706-364-0853 or email: info@usatopdentists.com or visit: www.usatopdentists.com topDentists has used its best efforts in assembling material for this list but does not warrant that the information contained herein is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions herein whether such errors or omissions result from negligence, accident, or any other cause. Copyright 2011-2021 by topDentists, LLC, Augusta, GA. All rights reserved. This list, or parts thereof, must not be reproduced in any form without permission. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without permission of topDentists. No fees may be charged, directly or indirectly, for the use of the information in this list without permission.

ENDODONTICS

Frank E. Bonner, Jr. 5756 South Staples Street, Ste A-2

Corpus Christi TX 78413

361-993-3100

W. Murray Cutbirth, Jr. 2862 South Alameda Street Corpus Christi TX 78404

361-882-5353

Jered B. King 4758 McArdle Road, Ste 202 Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-992-7871

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Anna C. Ashley 5525 South Staples Street, Ste A8 Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-991-0102

Orlando Barrera 5756 South Staples Street, Ste H Corpus Christi TX 78413 361-855-1521

John W. Baucum III 537 Gordon Street Corpus Christi TX 78404 361-855-3900

Arthur H. Boss, Jr. 801 Everhart Road Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-245-5400

Derek J. Chang 4758 McArdle Road, Ste 204 Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-217-3874

Charles A. Clements 325 General Cavazos Blvd Kingsville TX 78363 361-592-5248

J. Michael Elizondo 3420 South Alameda Street Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-857-5494

Clarissa Esparza

2802 South Staples Street, Ste B Corpus Christi TX 78404 361-852-3600

Mary E. Fischer

1336 West Wheeler Avenue Aransas Pass TX 78336 361-758-6684

Gregory S. Fossum

9301 South Padre Island Drive

Corpus Christi TX 78418 361-937-5555

Kenneth Gonzales

7426 S. Staples Street, Suite 101 Corpus Christi TX 78413 361-236-2388

Alexander Lobaina 5756 South Staples Street, Ste I Corpus Christi TX 78413 361-991-7791

John B. Mason

4949 Everhart Road, Ste 101 Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-854-3159

Jason F. Packard 801 Everhart Road Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-245-5400

Charles A. Robertson III 6421 Saratoga Boulevard, Ste 102 Corpus Christi TX 78414 361-992-3011

Carol W. Watt 2797 Main Street Ingleside TX 78362 361-776-5166

Baria T. Yassin 6500 South Padre Island Drive, Ste 16 Corpus Christi TX 78412 361-985-8580

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL

Mance A. Cutbirth 5756 South Staples Street, Ste F Corpus Christi TX 78413 361-993-2290

R. Bryan Gulley 6421 Saratoga Boulevard, Building 101 Corpus Christi TX 78414 361-992-3873

Kenneth D. Haynes 5756 South Staples, Ste F Corpus Christi TX 78413 361-993-2290

ORTHODONTICS

Michael L. McNeil 5826 Esplanade Drive, Ste 301 Corpus Christi TX 78414 361-980-8400

Colin A. Mihalik 5525 South Staples Boulevard, Ste C Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-992-4746

Roxanne G. Robertson 4750 South Padre Island Drive, Ste 101 Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-992-2483

Eric T. Vela 5826 Esplanade Drive, Ste 301 Corpus Christi TX 78414 361-980-8400

Damon C. Wilkerson 1505 East Rio Grande Street, Ste 120 Victoria TX 77901 361-235-4283

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Paul A. Kennedy III 6200 Saratoga Boulevard, Building 1 Corpus Christi TX 78414 361-992-9500

Eugene V. Nolfi, Jr. 525 Doddridge Street Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-855-6211

Steven Solis 525 Doddridge Street Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-855-6211

PROSTHODONTICS

Joseph P. Janosek 5525 South Staples Street, Ste A-2 Corpus Christi TX 78411 361-993-5905

HOME & GARDEN

A SCANDINAVIAN SIMPLICITY

BRIGHT WHITE WALLS JUXTAPOSED WITH WOODEN ACCENTS AND BLACK DETAIL MAKE A STATEMENT THAT NEVER GOES OUT OF STYLE BY: JACQUELINE GONZALEZ PHOTOS BY: JASON PAGE Cooking is a big part of Mark and Randi’s life, so they knew the kitchen needed to be designed with functionality in mind. An open concept layout seamlessly transitions the kitchen to the dining room to the living room, making the space perfect for every family member to coexist.

long the tree-lined streets of the historic and timeless Bessar Park neighborhood sits an array of beautiful, traditional homes built in the 1930s and ’40s. When Randi and Mark Wiley moved to Corpus Christi from Anchorage, Alaska, they fell in love with the friendly, quiet atmosphere and the large lots. The Wileys had their eye on one specific home, but before they could secure it, the house went off the market. Luckily, there was an empty, perfectly sized lot for Randi and Mark to build their dream home, right in the neighborhood of which they had grown so fond. The goal was to create a big, open living concept modeled on the Scandinavian style Randi fell in love with while living in Oslo, Norway—but she also wanted the house to fit into the atmosphere of the neighborhood. To

achieve this, she opted for a metal roof, Hardie board, and board and batten siding for a Texas farmhouse exterior. She also added a modern touch with black gutters and black windows.

In order to emulate the minimalistic Scandinavian style she desired, Randi went with pure white walls and maple wood accents. “It’s a very specific taste,” she says. “I love the natural wood elements with the white background, and then I throw in the black elements for a more modern look.”

Randi and Mark agree that less is more, so creating a functional space was top priority for their family. With children and pets to accommodate, each space in the home had to serve a purpose. When designing the layout, they thought about how best to create the most functional space based on their daily activities.

“What’s the first thing we do [when walking into the home]? We set our things down,” said Randi. So, rather than using shelving units to fill an alcove at the entrance from the garage door, Randi and Mark built a bench and added coat hooks on the wall to create a small nook for the kids to put their backpacks and shoes. This maximizes smaller spaces in the house, while also minimizing the chance of losing their items.

The kitchen and living room are the primary rooms in any home, but for the Wileys, achieving the right layout was important, since they spend a lot of time with family and other guests in this area.

“We love to cook,” says Mark, “so we put a lot of thought into the kitchen.” The Wileys

worked with a local designer to create the spacious area that gives them enough room to move around while cooking, and serves as a gathering space for family time. Directly across from the kitchen is the living room, which combines comfort with the best views in the house. The open floor plan and minimalistic design provide ease, while the views of the backyard offer a relaxing atmosphere.

Shifting from Alaskan temperatures to the South Texas heat was quite an adjustment for the Wileys in moving to the Coastal Bend, but it was nothing that adding a pool in their backyard couldn’t solve. The 16x32 foot pool with the sun shelf and small fountains is the perfect addition to their large backyard—not to mention serving as a picturesque view from

When designing a home, plan the layout to ensure that the structure works best for you. Find or create storage areas or add shelving to minimize clutter. Use proper lighting – natural light during the day and adequate lighting at night, and avoid using too many bright colors. Opt for neutral palettes and bright pops instead.

Each of the black finishes seen throughout the house adds an element of sleekness and refinement. The staircase complements the rest of the home’s more modern elements by mixing maple wood steps with an all-black railing.

today to learn how the “Innovo Process”can take your home dreams from concept to completion. Hundreds of satisfied customers in the Coastal Bend.

the living room. The addition of the pool allows them to cool off during the hotter temperatures, while the fountains also provide calming sounds during family time outside in the evening. The playful looking, UV- resistant white plastic chairs on the patio combine quality and function into one design. They won’t mold or rust, and the small opening in the center allows water to drain through, so guests can dry off.

Nature and the home’s landscape played a major part in the design of the backyard. With such a large space, and a pool, the rest of the yard was filled with lush greenery and shade provided by the trees, creating the perfect space for kids and dogs to run around. After a day of fun in the sun, guests will need a spot to shower without dripping all over the

house, so Randi and Mark designed a small outdoor wooden shower for guests to rinse off in. A nearby door leads into a small hallway with a powder room, whose black-and-white nautical theme and mixed metals provide an eye-catching, yet functional space for guests.

Randi and Mark wanted their staircase to match the house’s modern aesthetic—the maple wood steps, flanked by all-black railing, provide a clean and minimalistic statement separating the first and second floors.

While the Wileys plan to move out of their beloved build in the fall, they are certainly sad to see it go. Their hope is that all the hard work and love that they’ve put into the design will be treasured by its new owners.

When it comes to bathroom breaks on a pool day, walking through the house in a wet towel and suit isn’t ideal. Creating a bathroom area specifically for pool guests was crucial for this purpose. A black, white, and mixed-metal theme set the tone for this space.

a need-to-know basis

GROWING UP

Spacing, 12”. Height, 12” to 20”. Cool weather annual: sow by seed into well-tilled soil in September, or even better, plant transplants in October. Full sun; prefer evening shade in hotter weather and protection from winter winds. Any well-drained soil. Plant with plenty of organic compost for prolific flowering. Water until established and then as needed. Deadhead or harvest often to inspire new blooms.

PROFILING

Harvest flowers at peak of golden color and heady aroma. Sprinkle fresh petals on salads or use as edible garnish. Add flowers to soups or stews; add to rice while cooking to give a gorgeous saffron color to rice. Boil petals in water to make a lovely golden dye. Add petals lavishly to bath water to soften skin and treat acne. Cut the entire flower and hang upside down to dry for medicinal uses (all parts are useful).

Calendula's Calendar

GROWING

THIS COOL-WEATHER ANNUAL IN THE COASTAL BEND BY: JUSTIN BUTTS

The name calendula comes from the Latin world kalends, which is also where we got “calendar.” Botanists thought of this name because calendula blooms continuously every day of the month. Calendula is a cool-weather annual in the Coastal Bend. If the plants are protected from frost or freeze, calendula will bloom from autumn through winter and spring, until the heat of summer shuts them down.

The flower has been used as a food and medicine since antiquity: ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans documented many uses of calendula, from skin ointments to dyes to poultices for wounds. They are gorgeous flowers, but belong more appropriately in the herbal garden due to their many culinary and medicinal uses.

In India, women offer calendula flowers at the temple of Ganesh. In one small farming village, I once watched dozens of women in their colorful saris line up at the temple of Ganesh, each woman carrying a basket filled with golden calendula flowers. They laid their offerings at the temple one at a time, until thousands of gorgeous calendula flowers overflowed the temple.

Calendula have been a staple in the herb garden throughout Europe since earliest recorded history. Their petals were a common ingredient in soups and stews in all parts of Europe. Calendula were so common in cooking, they took the name “pot marigold,” not because they grow so well in pots, but because they were so common in the cookpot.

They do, however, grow well in pots. If planting your calendula in a container, wait until the cooler temps of October to put them out. Make sure to bring the pots indoors during a frost or freeze, and your beautiful calendula will flower all the way through spring.

LOCAL RECS

“I love calendulas! They are great for pollinators, bloom well in the heat, look great, and the orange and yellow varieties are edible. I am a big proponent of growing plants that serve multiple purposes and calendulas fit the bill. This is a flower that should be grown in every vegetable garden and landscape. They are rock stars!”

– Leo Ruiz, Get Growing @getgrowingcctx

FUN FACTS

Herbal healers have used calendula in poultices since ancient times. Civil War doctors used dried calendula leaves to treat wounds, because their soothing and antiseptic properties helped prevent wounds from infecting. Calendula oil is made by macerating the petals, and is common in skin ointments to treat bruises, dry and cracked skin, and sores.

You Spin Me Right Round

JARRED SCHUETZE

PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Vyears now. Who doesn’t love a good record player? They’re functional and stylish, and keep popping up in home tour after home tour. And more often than not, the people who appreciate the great audio that LPs and a solid sound system can bring to a room are also the ones who appreciate an aesthetic living space design. Wondering how to integrate your new console into an existing room? Enter the record-player setup. Consider it a sideboard or cabinet, not the focal point of the room

THE ART OF LISTENING

Always store records in the upright position to ensure they stay in good condition. Records stored slanted or flat for extended periods can warp and permanently damage the records.

A low storage system leaves room for eye-catching, contemporary art above. An easy, impactful wall accent can be achieved by painting linear forms on canvas using the existing wall color combined with other shades in similar tones.

The best way to automatically add life to a space? Plants and more plants. Green friends—along with earth toned art and decor—surround the record player and keep the room current.

A lounge chair near the record setup is a must. It provides an area to sit and relax when you want to plug in headphones for a more immersive listening experience.

Lastly, don’t get too committed to your setup and feel free to experiment. Speaker placement and where you sit in the room will change the sound and your experience. Fine tuning your listening space is one of the joys of record collecting and listening.

but a necessary design element. It should be a stable, flat surface which provides sizeappropriate space for the record player, albums, speakers and a few pieces of artfully chosen decor.

q get the look

Talavera

The holidays are swiftly approaching. Soon your house will be overrun with leftovers, decorations, and cheer. But before you pick up that cider or eggnog, shop the Family-Friendly Flooring Sale going on now at Allison Flooring America and save on the perfect floors, just in time for the holidays. Outfit your Great Indoors with any style of luxury vinyl, hardwood, carpet, or tile designed to stand up to all your family festivities. When it comes to flooring, trust the place where friends send friends.

by AARON GARCIA

photography

A Person's Portrait

PEOPLE OF CORPUS CAPTURES FLASHES OF COMMUNITY

BY: MARK GREGORY LOPEZ

PHOTOS BY: STEPHEN WINCELOWICZ

Tony Colunga leans against his porch in a graphic blue button-down and stylish glasses. Debra Knowles Molina glances over her right shoulder as she stands in front of the home she’s created years’ worth of family memories in. Josh De Leon poses with his eyes closed in the alleyway behind the local record shop he works at as the sun casts a radiant glow on his face. What do these people have in common?

They all had their portraits taken for People of Corpus, an Instagram page curated by Stephen Wincelowicz. Though fairly new, the initial idea was thought up almost a decade ago, a marriage of Wincelowicz’s two favorite things: photography and people.

“This was born out of my fascination with people,” Wincelowicz says. “I’m just interested in people, in the stories they’re wanting to share with the community.”

The subjects in Wincelowicz’s photos don’t just share space on a social media app; they share space in a city by the ocean, rife with sunlight and sea breezes. But for a moment, they’re vulnerable and beautiful as the camera lens captures their various spirits. However, it prompts the question: Why portraits?

“Because [they’re] stagnant,” Wincelowicz says. “It’s stagnant amongst the constant change. It’s a glimpse of a moment that’s almost immutable. That’s what it is; that’s what we get to look at for as long as it’s available to be seen. That’s the breath. That’s the moment to pause and reflect. Observe. No one’s speaking. There it is.”

Looking at the page, it doesn’t escape the attention that the inaugural photo is of the man behind the page itself. Wincelowicz stands in a denim shirt, eyes intently cast toward the viewer as his shadow stretches its dark silhouette across the lawn in front of his childhood home. It’s a fitting introduction to a page that asks Corpus Christians to be exposed to the space around them.

Though the page was conceived years ago, it didn’t gain ground until recently, as Wincelowicz went through periods of crippling anxiety and substance abuse that led him from Austin back home to Corpus, where he survived his last overdose in his childhood home in 2018.

“In that period of substance abuse, I had a series of overdoses. And then that final one, when I woke up, in the days after that, it felt like the world all became novel again. Even the mundane or what we would call ugly things were amazing.”

And though that period caused the page to take a detour, coming back, he said, the curation of who to photograph was (and still is) a genuine concern: “We brought it back up and were like, ‘Well, we’ll seek people out for now,’ but then I kind of felt like what I want to move into is a little more impartial. I don’t want to seek people out all the time, because then my subconscious judgment is directing who’s on. I want it to be more random, so that’s kind of part of our transition here: We’ve created a Google form that we’ll post up. I want to share this, and it be motivated that way, rather than it coming [just] from me.”

As Wincelowicz simultaneously spins tales of tenacity and trauma, one can see the earnestness in his intentions, the vibrancy with which he views the world around him. The relatability of the human experience thrives within the various landscapes that exist from a single scroll downward, the faces of Corpus citizens providing an invitation into their world, a glimpse of what it’s like to be them for a few seconds.

“That’s life, right? These little connected moments that may not seem connected, but at some point, they accumulate into who we are as individuals,” he said. “And how we perceive them, it’s so incredibly complicated. Everyone is beautiful in their mess, in their imperfections. That’s what I want to showcase.”

CONTACT:

@peopleofcorpus

PHOTO BY: AARON GARCIA

Make an impact on your curb appeal!

To see the beautiful custom designed sandblasted and etched glass doors call HEIDI CLUCK to schedule a gallery viewing and consultation.

Every Building Has its Story

THE LOCAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNT THAT AIMS TO PRESERVE THE HISTORY OF CORPUS CHRISTI BY:

KIRBY CONDA PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

She’s style, she’s grace; she’s Miss Preserve This Space. To be fair, this reference to pageantry (made jokingly, of course) is a far cry from the woman behind Instagram’s PreserveCCTX. Jessica Holt is undeniably “beauty and brains,” but what sets her apart is her affinity for lacing up her work boots and putting endless elbow grease into restoring long-forgotten architectural gems in this city we all love.

Holt has a professional stake in preservation alongside her personal passion, having pursued her Master of Fine Arts in Historic Preservation from Savannah College of Art and Design. Before getting her master’s, she studied Studio Art with a concentration in Photography at the University of New Hampshire. It was photography that ignited her interest in historic preservation; class assignments led Holt to seek out historical architecture to photograph, and now it seems as though these structures from worlds ago find her.

“It is so interesting, the stories they tell,” said Holt. “They are like people.” And in a way, she acts as a keeper of these stories by documenting their existence through her innovative and artistic Instagram account, PreserveCCTX.

“I started PreserveCCTX as a way to educate the public,” she said. “There’s so much [educating the community] that needs to be done.” The sentiment doesn’t exclude native Corpus Christians—just driving around downtown, a number of properties’ stories are trapped inside, dwindling, and waiting for the right person to come along and let them be heard once again.

Built almost 100 years ago is the beloved Ritz Theatre, whose entryway initially had a grand presence that offered a view of the second level just steps past the front door. If you were to walk in the lobby today, you’d find that renovations eventually blocked that vantage point.

And while there may have been good reasons for this change at the time, it could very likely mean a structural overhaul would be necessary to restore the Ritz to its roots.

Holt is on the board of CC Patch, the non-profit organization that owns the Ritz Theatre. Her volunteerism for the Ritz is a reflection of her love for restoration projects. The picture of the building that Holt paints is idyllic; but the beauty of this story is that she’s not drumming up a fictitious narrative. This

is history—Corpus Christi’s history—and she’s determined to see it live on as it was meant to be and in its former glory. But, until that becomes reality, she will continue advocating for the Ritz Revival through PreserveCCTX, and using her platform to educate the community on the benefits of historic preservation.

As PreserveCCTX reveals, plenty of other abandoned buildings in our city have grabbed Holt’s attention—all of which have made her grab her camera to document using her signature creative aesthetic. Seeing historic Corpus Christi through her lens is awe-inspiring.

“For so long the city has been fighting for its history, and it’s finally happening,” said Holt. This speaks to the third tier that makes up PreserveCCTX’s purpose: Combined with advocating and educating, the third piece is garnishing resources. For example, the City of Corpus Christi Preservation Plan and initiatives such as the Downtown Management District’s Mainstreet Program are the first two entities to have preservation plans greenlit, as well as receiving partial funding for these projects.

Perhaps one day, Holt said, what has started as a hobby she cares deeply about could be something more. She sees a space for PreserveCCTX to evolve alongside the city’s expansive growth plan. For now, though, she sees her role of being a vessel for preservation and restoration education for the community as the first step.

I WANT CANDY

BY: JO ANNE HOWELL PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Floating Treats. When your venue includes a pool, extending the decorations into the water is a great way to carry out the theme. Candy shaped pool floats in various colors and sizes were placed into the pool. Not only did they serve as fun pool toys for the kids, but they brought even more life to the backyard party.

parting words

Sometimes, caving to our sweet tooth and allowing ourselves a bit of indulgence is needed. That’s why this birthday party served as the perfect sweet escape. A candy themed extravaganza celebrating a special birthday girl came complete with a deliciously filled pinata, ring pop party favors, and candy necklace making activities.

Sweet Display. What’s a candy themed party without a plethora of sweets? The birthday girl requested an ice cream cake and candy toppers added the extra pizazz. The display area was spruced up with a colorful backdrop and other sweet treats such as sprinkle covered cake pops and candy themed cookies.

Candied Backdrops. A vibrant balloon wall made for the perfect photo op moment. A combination of bright colored and candy shaped balloons created a base for the wall. Letter balloons spelling out the birthday girl’s name were then placed front and center – the perfect cherry on top.

Calendar Events

SEPTEMBER 2021

CORPUS CHRISTI FALL HOME & GARDEN SHOW

SEPTEMBER 10TH

Make your home and garden dreams a reality with a little help from the Corpus Christi Fall Home & Garden Show! The biannual event features builders, remodelers, contractors, building materials, decks, pools, spas, entertainment systems, storage solutions, all kinds of plants, landscape displays, kitchenware, home accessories, and more.

1901 N SHORELINE BLVD.

ROGER CREAGER LIVE IN CONCERT

SEPTEMBER 11TH

Celebrate the last month of summer with a Texas Country concert! Roger Creager, originally from the Coastal Bend, will

be performing live at Brewster Street Icehouse – Downtown. Purchase tickets ahead of time to avoid possible sell out. Get there early to enjoy dinner and drinks before the show starts.

1724 N. TANCAHUA ST.

DINO STROLL –CORPUS CHRISTI

SEPTEMBER 19TH

Dino Stroll is an exciting event experience that invites guests of all ages to get up close to life-like and life-size dinosaurs, some standing over 25 feet tall and spanning over 60 feet long! During Dino Stroll, experience a transformation into the Mesozoic Era with prehistoric dinosaurs from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods throughout!

1213 TERRY SHAMSIE BLVD.

TEDXCOLEPARKLIVE –CORPUS CHRISTI

SEPTEMBER 18TH

In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDxColePark is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At this event, TEDTalks video and

live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. Stay tuned to the TEDxColePark website, as the speakers and schedule will be announced leading up to the event.

TEDXCOLEPARK.COM

33RD ANNUAL ROCKPORTFULTON HUMMERBIRD CELEBRATION

SEPTEMBER 16TH - 19TH

This annual event in the Rockport and Fulton area aims to celebrate the spectacular fall migration of the Rubythroated hummingbird. The event offers interesting and educational interactions to expand the public’s knowledge of all birds and associated wildlife. The weekend will be filled with special presentations, boat tours to see our amazing shore birds, "nature only" vendors, and opportunities to discover what’s new for the birding enthusiast.

1801 OMOHUNDRO ST.

social hour

PHOTOS

BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

1. John and Nancy Durham

Randy and Beth Gideon

Andrew and Rachel Tumlinson

Thomas and Amanda Campbell

Cally and Travis Fromme

Meta and Boo Hausser

AGAPE RANCH INVITES YOU TO

PRESENTED BY

Saturday, September 25th, 2021

6:30 pm – 10:30pm

Did you know that 90% of youth aging out of foster care will end up homeless, led into prostitution, incarcerated, trafficked, or dead within three years?

Join us on Saturday, September 25th for our 2021 Legacy Gala: A Matter of Time at the Corpus Christi Country Club to learn how you can impact the lives of vulnerable youth in South Texas.

Agape Ranch has established a safe environment where foster children can receive the support they need to mature in all aspects of their lives. Upon completion, our self-sustaining community will include 24 homes that can care for up to 132 foster children adults at a time. The Thrive Program will provide housing and mentorship for young adults as they pursue college or trade school. We can leave a different legacy for the foster children in our community. We cannot build this neighborhood without your support. COCKTAIL ATTIRE • DINNER • SILENT AUCTION

ON ISLAND TIME

Port Aransas establishment serving up tiki drinks and tropical vibes

A Sandwich by Any Other Name

WHAT ACTUALLY GOES INTO MAKING A GOOD SANDWICH

BY: KAYLA BUTTS, MS, RDN, LD PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Most people don’t have to be sold on the value of a good sandwich. In fact, 50% of Americans eat a sandwich every. single. day. But what makes a good sandwich? As with most dishes, the ingredients chosen should accomplish a delicate balance of salinity and sweetness, acidity and creamy goodness, and finish with a crunch.

Sandwich experts agree that good bread is half the battle. Be it a chewy baguette or a pillowy brioche bun, there are a few generalizations that can apply to choosing the perfect starchy base. The bread should be good enough to eat on its own, so opt for a higher quality version that is freshly baked or homemade. Toasted ciabatta can act as the crunchy element in a sandwich, while soft challah complements sweeter fillings like fluffernutter. Caution should be taken with rolls and thickly sliced bread; scoop out some of the innards of your kaiser roll before filling with lobster salad or kale slaw to prevent these precarious fillings from falling out. Hollowing out some of the bun also ensures you don’t end up with an overwhelming mouthful of bread.

Condiments are also key in avoiding a sandwich foul. They add flavor and moisture, and help seal the bread from juicier ingredients, like sliced tomato or pulled pork. Add some kick to your mayo (or sour cream or yogurt) with lime, chili, or minced herbs. Experiment with tahini, infused oils, or exotic nut butters. Add acid with vinaigrettes or freshly squeezed fruit juice. Explore the flavor combinations of hot sauce or kimchi on an otherwise bland sandwich.

Perhaps one of the most overlooked elements of a good sandwich, fresh vegetables add flavor, texture, and color. One common sandwich faux pas is forgetting to season the vegetables prior to piling them on. For best results, wash your vegetables well in cold water, scrubbing as needed, pat dry to remove excess water, and season with salt and cracked pepper.

As for the meat of the subject, protein options of a sandwich are virtually endless. From meatloaf to tofu, all varieties are featured in someone’s favorite sandwich. And while we generally recommend meats thinly sliced with a coating of condiment, we won’t presume to suggest just one—follow your heart.

Like most research, the conclusion of our sandwich study is somewhat inconclusive. We don’t know everything there is to know about what makes a good sandwich for you, because love for a sandwich is subjective and personal. Perhaps this is why we insist you experiment with new flavors and textures yourself. After all, a good sandwich is the one you like best.

This recipe incorporates freshly baked sourdough and tuna niçoise salad into a decadent sandwich. Pan Bagnat, or “bathed bread,” is one of several types of sandwich that is intended to change textures over time (translation: it gets soggy, but in the best way). In this version, we cheat a little to get the texture and flavor of sourdough without the painstaking process of creating and maintaining sourdough starter.

RECIPE

Pan Campagne

Makes 4 boules

PREP TIME: 10 minutes

INACTIVE PREP TIME: 8-12 hours, plus 2 hours

COOK TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

3 1/4 cup unbleached bread flour

1/2 cup whole wheat flour

1 3/4 cup warm water

2 tsp salt

1 tsp yeast

DIRECTIONS:

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and knead for 5 minutes, until a smooth dough is formed. Cover with a tea towel and let rise at room temperature overnight, for 8-12 hours. Cut the dough into four quadrants and shape each into a ball. Place on a nonstick baking sheet and cover with a tea towel. Let proof for two hours, or until rolls have almost doubled in size.

Set one oven rack in the middle of the oven and the second oven rack to the very bottom. Place a rimmed baking sheet on the bottom oven rack. Preheat oven to 500ºF. Remove towel from boules and sprinkle with flour. Score the top of each boule with a baking lame or sharp knife. Once oven is preheated, reduce temperature to 450ºF and immediately insert boules. Working quickly, pour 2 cups of water into the rimmed baking sheet. Close the oven door and cook boules for 30 minutes, until golden and crisp on top. Transfer cooked boules to a cooling rack and let cool to room temperature before cutting.

RECIPE

Pan Bagnat

Serves 2

PREP TIME: 45 minutes

INACTIVE PREP TIME: 8-12 hours, plus 2 hours

COOK TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

2 boules of Pan Campagne (recipe on pg.105)

1 garlic clove, smashed with the flat edge of your knife

1/4 cup parsley

1/4 cup olives

1 tbsp capers

1/2 bell pepper

3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling

1 tbsp dijon mustard

8 oz tuna, canned in oil

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 red onion, thinly sliced

2 boiled eggs, thinly sliced

2 tomatoes, sliced

1 bunch fresh basil leaves

Optional: red wine vinegar to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Place tomato slices on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper. Let juices come to the top of the tomato while you prepare the boule and tuna niçoise.

Cut boule in half on the horizontal. Remove some of the interior of the dome, leaving at least a 1/4” bowl. Brush either side with olive oil. Rub both sides of bread with fresh garlic.

Roughly chop parsley, olives, capers, and bell pepper using a food processor or chef’s knife. Combine these ingredients with olive oil, dijon mustard, tuna, and black pepper in a medium bowl, stirring to combine. Pat reserved tomatoes with additional paper towels to remove excess moisture.

To assemble sandwich, layer basil on top of bread base, followed by tuna mixture, tomatoes, eggs, and onion. If desired, drizzle fillings with additional olive oil and red wine vinegar.

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On Island Time

PORT ARANSAS ESTABLISHMENT SERVING UP TIKI DRINKS AND TROPICAL VIBES

BY: JOSH MAXWELL

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Here in the Coastal Bend, we’re all fairly accustomed to the idea of living on “island time.” However, one Port Aransas bar knows exactly what it means to embrace the salty air and sandy beaches; paying homage to traditional island themes and decor, Lelo’s Island Bar is the perfect spot for a refreshing cocktail to take the worries away. Thanks to island-themed tiki drinks and a welcoming atmosphere, it's only natural locals and tourists alike have gravitated towards this fine establishment.

Virginia Scott, one of the proud owners of Lelo’s, takes inspiration from any and everywhere she goes, and especially from family. As far as the inspiration behind the name, Scott said, “Leo is my grandson, so [the business] is actually named after him, but his sister called him Lelo, so that's how we got the name.”

However, her inspiration doesn't end with her family. Scott is always thinking of new and innovative ways to construct drinks for her bar. “We love to visit tiki bars, especially the ones in Las Vegas. We are trying to get inspiration to switch up our drinks,” she said. Bringing fresh cocktails with a tropical splash to the Coastal Bend is one of the main goals at Lelo’s.

What sets Lelo’s apart from the rest isn’t just the staff’s love of family or the bar’s island vibes, but the well-thoughtout drink combinations. “Our Bailey’s Banana Colada is based on a fond memory of us being in St. Thomas, and it happens to be our most popular drink,” Scott said.

Another crowd favorite is the Mermaid Water, which is served in a conch shell glass and the perfect libation to share. This cocktail features spiced and coconut rums shaken with pineapple juice, lime juice, and then topped with a splash of blue curacao. The PainKiller, served with a local, aged rum from Vida Caña Rum, pineapple juice, cream of coconut, orange juice, and a dash of nutmeg, is also a top contender on their list of specialty drinks.

With a warm, inviting environment and many diverse drink options to choose from, you're sure to find something to quench your thirst—and get the feeling of being transported straight to a hammock on the beach in the process.

CONTACT:

212 Beach St | lelosbar.com

WHERE TO EAT

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

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

CRUZY'S $ •

Tacos take on a whole new meaning at new local favorite, Cruzy’s. Each taco features carefully chosen ingredients to create dishes you won’t find anywhere else. 7042 S. Staples #108, (361) 452-2081, cruzys.com

HAMLIN FOUNTAIN & GIFTS $ •

With bold purpose and flavor craving taste buds, they set forth a new twist on local fare and many culinary delights from islands around the globe. 3801 Staples St, (361) 853-7303

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

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, (210) 418-4819, blacksheepbistro.net

PADRE ISLAND BURGER CO $$ ••

Burgers, burgers, and burgers! Build it yourself or choose from their handcrafted menu. 11878 TX-361, padreislandburgercompany.com

POETS FAMILY RESTAURANT $ •

A hidden gem among 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 $ ••

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. 5884 Everhart Rd, (361) 334-0202, theblueclove.com

THE GLASS PAVILION $$$ ••

Casual hotel eatery offering simple American mains and views of the sea. Did we mention they also offer a breakfast buffet? Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! 2nd Floor Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 886-3510, omnihotels.com

THE POST AT LAMAR PARK $$ ••

Enjoy this popular gastro-pub with delicious dishes that are meant to be shared, along side a beer or cocktail of course! 411 Doddridge St #102, (361) 452-0907, thepostlamarpark.com

TOWN & COUNTRY CAFÉ $ •

This down-to-earth diner serves the best in homestyle American comfort food for breakfast and lunch. 4228 S Alameda St, (361) 992-0360,

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, akasushicorpus.com

DOKYO DAUNTAUN $$ ••

One of the Coastal Bend’s highly regarded restaurants, Dokyo Dauntaun takes an innovative and artistic approach to fine dining. From mouthwatering dishes to creative cocktails, Dokyo never disappoints. 424 N. Chaparral St, (361) 462-2620, dokyodauntaun.com

NINJA RAMEN & THAI $ •

Japanese ramen featuring the most delicious broth is just one aspect of Ninja Ramen & Thai’s delicious cuisine. This family-owned-and-operated spot

features a great menu and excellent service. 2033 Airline Rd #E5, (361) 4522622, ninjaramenandthai.com

ROCK & ROLLS SUSHI LOUNGE $$••

At Rock & Rolls, they’re dishing out the most delectable and delicate fish from islands all over the world. Delight in a 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. 1220 Airline Rd #155, (361) 991-1115, z-counter.com

BAR&GRILL

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, 5550 Holly Rd 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! 306 N Chapparal St, (361) 884-7873, waterstmarketcc.com

FINS $$ •••

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

FULTON IRISH PUB $

For a seaside bar where you can raise a glass and sing, the Fulton Irish Pub is unmatched. This source for flavors of Ireland creates meals with locallysourced, fresh ingredients and won’t disappoint. 301 N Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 450-5115, fultonsirishpubandgrill.com

CAFÉ

CORAL BEAN CAFE $ •

This Southside staple will be your new go-to spot for caffeinated beverages and light breakfast and lunch fare. The high quality beverages and espresso will impress even the connoisseurs. 7426 S Staples, (361) 334-0194

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. 4141 S Staples St #100, (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

EUROPEAN

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

ERINI'S GYROS & MORE $

Authentic Greek food in the form of gyros, homemade pita, lamb-stuffed pita, and more can be found here. Dine in or sit outside at one of their picnic benches for a delicious bite.

4360 S Alameda St, (361) 334-2150, eirinisgyros.com

ITALIAN

B&J'S PIZZA - BREWPUB $$ •

This popular neighborhood spot makes all our pizza and beer dreams come true. Their classic hand-tossed dough will have you hooked on these top-notch pies. Delicious wings, subs, and more can also be found here. 6662 S Staples, (361). 985-6474, bandjspizza.com

BELLINO $$ ••

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

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) 7497617, venetianhotplate.com

MEXICAN

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 haciendathemed 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

TO-CE-CHI $ •

A genuine and authentic Mexican dining experience is the only thing on the menu at this local spot. To-Ce-Chi brings a refreshing take on authentic Central Mexican cuisine with dishes like El Zarape and Sopes. 4028 Weber Rd, (361) 334-3432

YOLA COCINA MEXICANA $$ ••

Taking it back to the neighborhoods in Mexico City, this chic and timeless dining spot serves up authentic Mexican cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

3818 S Alameda, (361) 334-0020

MIDDLE EASTERN

GINGER CAFE $$ •

The menu at Ginger Cafe takes you all around the world, to India, Greece, Turkey, Iran and more. While some dishes remain authentic, others combine flavors from multiple countries to offer you an entire continent on a plate. 7009 S Staples St. (361) 946-9834, gingercafeandgrill.com

KUZINA LEBANESE GRILL $ •

Featuring delightful and traditional Lebanese cuisine, this local gem transports you across oceans to a Lebanese seaside café. Scoop up some tabbouleh with pita, top the falafel with hummus, and enjoy! 3801 Saratoga Blvd #113, kuzinagrill.com

MIDDLE EASTERN MARKET + DELI $ •

Both a bodega and deli, Middle Eastern Market has a something for everyone. From daily deli specials to an expansive selection of spices and more, this spot is a must! 5405 Everhart Rd, (361) 854-9445

SUFI KABOB $ •

Sufi Kabob’s menu features the entire expanse of the Middle East region right at your fingertips. From Pakistani and Persian to Indian and even Halal, this menu offers casual eats for every palate. 7150 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 356-6715

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) 7494653, blackmarlinbarandgrill.com

COSTA SUR $$ ••

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. 15113 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 945-8303 costasurcc.com

GLOW $$ ••

From a renovated boathouse, they offer simply-cooked bistro fare using the best local seafood and produce. Bright, relaxed atmosphere with whitewashed 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

ISLAND TIME SUSHI BAR + GRILL $ •

A notable Island favorite, Island Time Sushi Bar serves up fresh and colorful sushi rolls and a variety delectable seafood dishes. With excellent cocktail options, this spot offers it all. 14225 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-3046

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 familyfriendly 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, lisabellas.com

ROOSEVELT’S $$$ •

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) 8819448, waterstreetmarketcc.com

YARDARM $$$ •••

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

STEAKHOUSE

KATZ 21 $$$ ••

Sets the standard for premier fine dining experience. Prime steakhouse specializes in dry-aged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood. 5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, katz21.com

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) 886-3515, 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

A Slice of the Bronx

QUALITY ENTERTAINMENT AND AUTHENTIC ITALIAN CUISINE

BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Salvatore Colicci, owner of the renowned Bella Luna downtown, saw what the Southside was lacking: a good slice of pizza from the Bronx. With his years of restaurant experience and taste for bona fide Italian cooking, he opened Sal’s Bronx Pizzeria on the Southside.

“We found this location and I just thought it was perfect,” he said. “It’s a great demographic. And ever since we’ve opened, it’s been wonderful.” The modern Italian menu features homemade focaccia bread, unique pasta dishes, and large oven-baked pizzas prepared from an authentic scratch kitchen. While some dishes pay homage to Bella Luna, like the Bella Supreme pizza, Sal’s Bronx offers gourmet Italian cuisine that’s completely new to the Coastal Bend area.

“My father was a really good cook,” Colicci said. “In Italy, he was a farmer, so when I lived in New York, we had a garden and there were always fresh vegetables on the table. We made everything from scratch, and that definitely impacted how I cook today.”

Star dishes of the restaurant include the Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Bake, a tender potato dumpling pasta tossed in parmesan with sundried tomatoes and fresh herbs, and mixed in with roasted chicken and colossal shrimp. “I was also just able to procure cauliflower gnocchi, which is gluten- and dairy-free,” Colicci said, “which will be served with a choice of some of our housemade vegan sauces.”

For a shareable appetizer, Antipasto Misto is a handsome contender. The charcuterie platter assortment comes with spec prosciutto, genoa salami, capicola, a variety of cheeses, olives, marinated artichoke hearts, arugula, eggplant caponata, and focaccia bread to help you soak it all up.

Dining at Sal’s Bronx isn’t just about the food, though; for an audience of live music and stand-up comedy, the Southside can now provide. Four nights a week, the

Many of the main dishes on the menu are named after parts of the Bronx in New York. The Bruckner Boulevard-Bianca is named after the famous expressway; The Fort

is named after the preserved 19th-century

a well-known Bronx neighborhood.

restaurant hosts jazz musicians and comedians to liven up the stage. “Why not go out to eat with some live jazz?” Colicci smiled. “What you see here, too, is families interacting with each other more and enjoying the atmosphere.”

While maintaining Bella Luna Downtown and now Sal’s Bronx Pizzeria, Colicci has ideas to continue his pizza conquest on the Coastal Bend. Plans to open a Bella Luna Southside are in the works, so fans of the downtown bistro can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine anywhere they go in town.

The restaurant owner aims to bring two things from his life in the Bronx to Corpus Christi: quality entertainment and delicious, authentic Italian cuisine. “Every place I’ve opened has been a step up from the last. I took my experience, and my mistakes, and every place has definitely been better.”

CONTACT: 5922 Yorktown Blvd | salsbronxpizza.com

Schuyler Salad

fortification; The Morris Park Pasta is named after

looking back

“…This Is Murphy Givens.”

BY: JILLIAN BECQUET PHOTO BY: COURTESY OF NUECES PRESS

For years, readers have flipped to this column and found photos of people and places of the past—some buildings still standing, some lost to time. But for this issue featuring so many Coastal Bend landmarks, we cannot end without paying homage to the man who spent his career teaching the community about itself.

In Murphy Givens’ obituary, his family tells of his home office lined with bookshelves and filing cabinets full of his sources and research. I think they were there more to help him help other historians and to illustrate his books and articles than to serve as his own reference. When I hit a roadblock in my research, Murphy was always quick to return a detailed message about the person or business I was seeking information on, and usually sent a photograph along, too.

For 20 years, his stories ran weekly in the paper. His recognizable drawl graced KEDT, always starting and ending his story with “This is Murphy Givens.” Stewart Jacoby, Director of Radio Programming for KEDT, honed in on what made Murphy’s style of storytelling so different than other histories: “…so many historians would look at an army, but Murphy Givens would look at the individual foot soldier.”

The stories of those people drew many readers and listeners into a history they’d never heard before. His writing is a treasure trove of knowledge, a legacy left for not only historians but anyone who takes an interest in the people who walked this ground before us.

Murphy Dale Givens (1944-2020)