February 2022 by The Bend Magazine

Top Doctors 2022 +

Bowl Culture

A storied journey through some of the Coastal Bend’s tastiest bowls

YOU HAD ME AT CHOCOLATE THREE PERFECT VALENTINE’S RECIPES FOR THE CHOCOLATE LOVER IN YOUR LIFE PLUS

Tom Yum Ramen from Ramen Legend

Food bowls are awesome. Food bowls are awesome.

So is conserving water. So is conserving water.

PRESIDENT

Jordan Regas

VICE PRESIDENT

Kaley Regas

PUBLISHER

Chris Knapick

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Kylie Cooper

ART DIRECTOR

Jarred Schuetze

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Gloria Stauber

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Aubrey Jernigan

DIGITAL MEDIA

SPECIALIST

Hannah Ticer

SENIOR WRITER

Kirby Conda

COPY EDITOR

Steve Gill

LEAD

PHOTOGRAPHER

Rachel Benavides

PHOTOGRAPHY

Dustin Ashcraft

Jason Page

Lillian Reitz

CONTRIBUTORS

Luis Arjona

Jillian Becquet

Monica Benavides

Justin Butts

Kayla Butts

Monique Dennis

Jessie Chrobocinski

Jacqueline Gonzalez

Julieta Hernandez

Jo Anne Howell

Suzzette James

Kathy Lee

Mark Gregory Lopez

EDITORIAL INTERN

Tyler Schultz

Q: What’s your favorite local dish that comes served in a bowl?

DA: I enjoy the Yellow Curry from Thai Cottage. It’s just so delicious. I love that you can choose your spice level…I like it spicy.

LA: I like to order the ceviche from Fresco when I want a quick bite to eat. Especially on sunnier days, I’ll take a walk to the shop and cool off with some fresh fish.

JH: The crispy Brussels sprouts from The Post! I didn’t even think I liked Brussels sprouts, but with the honey sriracha sauce (and I always add the bacon) it’s something I think about long after I’m gone.

BEHIND THE COVER:

Featured on this month’s cover is one of Ramen Legend’s co-owner and chef Carl Bernardo’s favorite menu

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Food Intentions

When I sat down at the beginning of this new year to think on goals or habits I’d like to focus on in the coming 365 days, I decided to take a slightly different approach. Instead of setting typical resolutions, I wrote down a list of things I’d like to attribute to the type of person I am: I am the type of person who drinks enough water in the day. I am the type of person who gives herself grace. So on and so forth.

I typically eat extremely fast; always the first to finish their plate at the table. Which is part of the reason why, on this list, I wrote, I am the type of person who puts intentionality behind the food I eat. From the planning and buying to the cooking and eating, my goal is to put real purpose into each step of creating and consuming a meal in order to truly appreciate it.

In contributing to this month’s cover feature “Bowl Culture” (pg. 26), I had the opportunity to sit down with Ramen Legend chef and co-owner Carl Bernardo. Throughout our conversation, I was struck by the way Bernardo spoke about the food on

his menu. You could see the wheels turning in his head as he provided insight into each dish. He’s thought about every single step in the process of delivering a meal to a customer, from the beginnings of the broth and the 12 hours it simmers to the way he wants to leave a customer’s mouth feeling after they’ve taken their last spoonful. Bernardo’s concluding sentiment was that he is ultimately interested in inviting people to his table to share those intentions, which result in one of the best bowls of ramen you’ll find in the Coastal Bend.

I am reminded of the importance of intentionality, especially when it comes to the food we consume, within several of this month’s stories.

Our Person of Interest (pg. 22) this month is Dr. Dhaval Patel. As the founder and owner of Uncommon Market, the way Dr. Patel moves through life showcases passion and purpose. His goal is to provide Beeville and surrounding areas with a culinary philosophy of fresh ingredients, bold flavors and sustainable cuisine with a farm-to-table approach, and beyond—Dr. Patel aims to build a stronger community through “uncommon epicurean experiences.”

Nathan Kolenovsky, of the new neighborhood meat market Boarri Craft Butchery (pg. 102), is another great example of the power behind intent. The market brings a unique culinary shopping experience to Corpus Christi by connecting with area farmers to deliver responsibly sourced meat. But perhaps more than supplying the freshest local products to his customers, Kolenovsky is interested in educating others on what they’re buying and where it came from, and in seeing how they use it to create their own meal for the people they love.

As you read through this month’s issue, and move through life in general, I hope you do so with a little more intention. Slow down and smell the metaphorical roses; you just might garner a new sense of appreciation for the world around you.

Kylie Cooper, Editor In Chief kylie@thebendmag.com

There

CULTURAL INCLUSION

is so much rich history in the Coastal Bend that has laid the foundation for the continued legacy of influential civil rights work. In celebration of Black History Month, we take a look at historical achievements and the

PLANTED IN PASSION

Planted, a new nursery owned by Tina Turman, is rooted in educating customers on plant varieties and care. The shop is

YOU HAD ME AT CHOCOLATE Chocolate solidified its reign in the romance department in 1831, after Cadbury released a red, heartshaped box. Inspired by the treat now synonymous with Valentine’s Day, three decadent chocolate recipes will have your mouth watering. PG 94

Providing cosmetic surgery in Corpus Christi, TX and surrounding communities

MEET DR. DHAVAL PATEL

photography

by ARNOLD GARZA

Je T’Adore

Whether you’re saying ‘I love you’ to others or yourself, here are some items sure to bring a bit of romance into life.

1. BLACK TIE ROSES WINTER FLORALS

2. LADY CAPTAIN CASA DORIS

FLORAL DRESS 3. LAVENDER + LEE

HIBISCUS LILIUM BLOOM EARRINGS

ELEANOR'S CHARCUTERIE BOARD

TOTAL WINE MAILLY BRUT ROSE

GRAND CRU 1992 6. COMMONS

HINOKI FANTOME BOY SMELLS

JULIAN GOLD MON GUERLAIN EAU

DE PARFUM 8. CHIA COLOMBIAN

HANDCRAFTED OFF-WHITE LEOPARD PRINT SHOPPER

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

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ANN TAYLOR LOFT

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR

CHICO’S

FOUR CHICKS IN THE PARK

GOLDSMITH JEWELERS

GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

HARKNESS YOGA

HESTER’S CAFE

HOT BOX SALON AND SHOP

JULIAN GOLD

PARK SEVEN

PILAR FASHION & FOLK ART

TALBOTS

THE POST

Take a picture and tag us (@thebendmag) #bestbendlife to be featured.

@downtowncorpuschristi

10 Sushi Rolls to Try Now

Whether enjoyed raw or tempura style, sushi has easily become one of the most preferred international cuisines around the world. With a seemingly infinite number of variations to enjoy, there’s truly a roll for everyone. Head to thebendmag.com for a list of 10 of our favorite sushi rolls in the Coastal Bend.

Are We Ours?

CORPUS CHRISTI, A DEMENTIA FRIENDLY CITY

BY: MARK GREGORY LOPEZ ILLUSTRATION

BY: JARRED SCHUETZE

"Are you mine? Are you my baby?” So begins the song “Are You Mine?” written and performed by Kim Deal (of The Breeders and Pixies fame). The song was written from the perspective of her late mother, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease. What might begin as confusion over where you parked your car can spiral into questioning whether the people in your life are actually there, or whether you know them.

It’s these sentiments that prompted organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association, Dementia Friendly Corpus Christi and Area Agency on Aging in the Coastal Bend to bring awareness to dementia and Alzheimer’s, and has even led to Corpus Christi being only the sixth city in the state of Texas to receive the designation of being a Dementia Friendly city.

According to the area agency on aging’s website, “a Dementia Friendly community is informed, safe and respectful of individuals with symptoms of dementia, their families and caregivers. It provides supportive options that foster quality of life.”

“We were designated a Dementia Friendly city by Dementia Friendly National Organization in December 2020,” said Sydney Cissna, outreach action team co-facilitator for Dementia Friendly. “We raise awareness through walks, education and fundraising. People learn and make a pledge to take action—which could be as simple as checking in on someone who has dementia, and as complex as participating in dementia trials. Every action is enough to make a difference.”

According to the Alzheimer’s Association’s website, more than 6 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s, yet 3 in 10 Latinos believe they will not live long enough to develop dementia. It’s these particular misconceptions of dementia and Alzheimer’s these organizations hope to circumvent. The Alzheimer’s Association’s South Texas chapter has an office here in Corpus Christi.

“What we basically do is focus on fundraising, because our biggest thing is [that] we want to find a cure in our lifetime,” said Bettina Garza, constituent event manager for the Alzheimer’s Association’s Victoria and Corpus Christi offices. “We partner with businesses, organizations and local agencies and want them to get involved and have a partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association. All the money they raise goes to research and funds a staff partner like me to be here to give education and awareness about Alzheimer’s, so we can educate their staff and educate their friends and families in the community about Alzheimer’s, and how to deal with it aside from someone getting diagnosed.”

Another important thing that professionals want the public to know is that dementia doesn’t look the same for everybody. Because each individual has the capacity to think for themselves and have their own memories, the loss of said memories contains multitudes that differentiate one person from another.

“You don’t know it until you see it right in front of you,” Garza said. “But the livelihood is there. So I go back to knowledge is power, and we want to empower everyone in the community.”

CONTACT:

Local Alzheimer’s Association: 418 Peoples St. Suite 204

Area Agency on Aging: aaacoastalbend.org

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Spots for the Perfect Instagram

FROM SCENIC SPOTS IN NATURE TO THE MYRIAD OF MURALS IN DOWNTOWN CORPUS CHRISTI, HERE ARE THE TOP SPOTS TO TAKE THE PERFECT INSTAGRAM

BY: KYLIE COOPER PHOTO BY: TYLER SCHULTZ

Looking for the perfect spot to snap your next photo? Whether you’re in need of a great location for your upcoming family portraits or you’re wanting to freshen up your Instagram feed with a few new shots, here’s a list of five spots in the Coastal Bend that make for the perfect backdrop.

Bayside Park

108 Sabine Dr. This Portland park is a great photo location merely for the variety of angles it provides. In one direction, you have a gorgeous view of the Corpus Christi Bay, while other angles allow for more of a dunes in the desert look.

Rockport Beach

210 Seabreeze Dr, Rockport A list of photo-worthy locations wouldn’t be complete without mention of a beach. While any of our sandy shores will do, Rockport Beach is topping this list. As one of only four Blue Wave Beaches along the Texas Gulf Coast, this spot is kept in pristine condition and the dried palm umbrella structures make for fun posing material.

Big Tree – Goose Island State Park

1622 12th St, Rockport Nature always provides the perfect inspiration for snapping a photo. Be it family portraits, engagement photos or simply a new profile picture, the Big Tree at Goose Island State Park takes the cake.

South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center

8545 S. Staples, St. From nature trails and the stunning orchid greenhouse to a butterfly garden and tons of flora and fauna, every corner of this place makes for gorgeous photos. Bring the whole family and make a field trip out of it! You’ll have an educational experience and new family photos by the end of the day.

Downtown

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi, 78401 With numerous murals, interesting architecture and aesthetically pleasing local shops, Downtown Corpus Christi is filled with unique photoops. Walk a few blocks over to the Peoples or Lawrence T-Heads if you’re looking for a more serene backdrop.

Dr. Dhaval Patel

A CONVERSATION WITH THE COMMUNITY VISIONARY AND ENTREPRENEUR ON WHAT COMMUNITY TRULY MEANS, THE UNCOMMON EPICUREAN EXPERIENCE AND MORE

BY: KYLIE COOPER PHOTOS BY: ARNOLD GARZA

KC: I’d love for you to share a bit about the Coffee Barrel origin story and how your work in Beeville began.

DDP: I grew up in Houston while my wife, Patricia, was raised in greater Beeville. Our vision for a “place for community” through food, beverage and impact always has been with us no matter where we lived globally. Four years ago, Patricia said, “A local coffee shop [in Beeville] is for sale. My friends want you to buy it.” Since I was traveling extensively for work then, I had never been, but by the next month, I was visiting daily. A barista asked if I was buying it, and that idea of a “place for community” came to mind. So the decision was made, and our vision since has evolved from Coffee Barrel to the bigger concept of the Uncommon Market.

KC: What is The Uncommon Market?

DDP: More than a place encompassing the businesses Coffee Barrel, Uncommon Table and Atomic Bakery, Uncommon Market is a way of life. It is a philosophy for learning and experiencing the world. Uncommon Market brings people together through unique, “uncommon” experiences. The culinary philosophy highlights fresh ingredients, bold flavors and sustainable cuisine with a farm-to-table approach, while addressing community issues. Born from years of inviting friends to the table and with a passion for gastronomy, respect for cultures and love of knowledge, experiences are curated, uniting people to make a difference through our 12 community programs.

KC: A big component of your business model is about offering community programs. Why is this important, and what does it bring to the area?

DDP: Mother Teresa said, “I want you to be concerned about your neighbor. Do you know your neighbor?” Her words exemplify why we keep working. Bringing our community together through uncommon epicurean experiences means individuals know their neighbor and express concern. We create fun, exciting and uncommon approaches for change. We implement programs across the pillars of education, healthcare, economic livelihood and environment. By partnering with schools, not-for-profit organizations, businesses and governments, citizens create buzz through chef competitions, gardens, field trips, sustainability projects, cooking classes, etc. People are learning about the world, just by staying home and becoming uncommon epicureans who know their neighbors.

KC: What is the driving force behind what you do?

DDP: One word: community! Our passion is to help communities everywhere get stronger, have a voice and produce sustainable impact. In South Texas, we are re-defining the culinary ecosystem at all stages—growing, cooking, consumption and waste—through our uncommon epicurean approaches. Having lived and worked in almost 90 countries, I have learned about so many aspects of different cultures. Using this global

knowledge, we curate local, healthy and diverse experiences addressing food deserts, chronic and preventable health problems, lack of sustainability practices and new cooking methods. This is why we are excited to partner with folks on this journey and make a difference.

KC: You refer to those who interact and partner with you as “uncommon epicureans.” What does that mean?

DDP: Greek philosopher Epicurus suggested one should seek pleasure in moderation through the mind. Expanding on this idea, we added the notion of “uncommonness.” Uncommon epicureans are people wanting simple enjoyment through different, fun opportunities. They learn, share and experience life’s diversity—gastronomy, travel, culture, art, music, history, archeology, books, cooking, community programs, etc. Simply learning to make a fragrant bowl of Japanese ramen with local pork belly is an uncommon epicurean’s lifestyle. They attain pleasures from understanding cultures, tasting new flavors, enjoying the dish and chatting with farmers.

KC: What fresh perspective do you feel you, and The Uncommon Market, bring to the food industry?

DDP: Our social business model through Uncommon Market is “unique” for the culinary sector, especially in South Texas. We have taken an entrepreneurial business idea and integrated it with our social mission from day one through exciting, uncommon approaches that are scalable. By utilizing our garden for fresh, sustainable ingredients, building partnerships with key livestock farmers and teaching kids about tasty, delicious cuisine, we are addressing hypertension and diabetes. We are introducing ideas about global diversity, sustainability and healthy practices with non-food industry partners from sectors like energy and tourism. Even the notion of “uncommon epicureanism” to the food industry is a fresh perspective.

Read the full interview online.

MORTGAGE LENDING FROM OPEN TO CLOSE Local

BOWL

RAMEN

BY THE NUMBERS

SEAFOOD GUMBO –

Castaways Seafood & Grill

Located in Port Aransas, Castaways Seafood & Grill has an item on the menu that never fails to sell out on a daily basis. We chatted with manager Emily Hernandez to find out exactly what it takes to create its famous Seafood Gumbo. ingredients USED IN THE gumbo

15 BOWLS of gumbo sold in a DAY

35 hours it takes to prepare

16 spices in the gumbo

15 POUNDS OF SEAFOOD USED PER WEEK

2 years to perfect the recipe

THE ANATOMY OF A POKE BOWL

The Water Street Sushi Room’s Tuna Caliente poke bowl is a favorite for many locals, but did you know the famous dish of raw, diced fish and veggies served with rice originated in Hawaii? Poke, which translates to “cut crosswise into pieces,” is believed to have been first prepared by island natives centuries before Westerners arrived, and didn’t become popularized in the States until the early ’90s, thanks to Hawaii legend Chef Sam Choy and his poke contests.

The Water Street Sushi Room serves up some of the best poke in town, and we’re breaking down the anatomy of one of its most popular bowls.

ALL ABOUT THE SAUCE

HOW TO MAKE SUSHI ROOM'S SPICY POKE SAUCE

Combine soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, honey, jalapeño ponzu and rice wine vinegar in a bowl. Then, in an immersion blender, add in spicy sesame oil.

STICKY RICE

YELLOWFIN

WHITE ONION

Tuna caliente - Water street sushi room

For the WARMER months

- Opt for a vibrant and bright dish, such as the Pasta Angela. With colors reminiscent of blooming springtime flowers, this dish blends slowly simmered fresh garlic, dried grapes, onions, prosciutto, tomatoes and pine nuts deglazed with white wine and mixed with linguine in a butter cream sauce.

PASTA TWO WAYSLUCIANO's ITALIAN RESTAURANT

When it comes to ordering or preparing your own pasta, Luciano’s Italian Restaurant owner Joseph Douglas says it’s all about the temperature outside.

For the colder months

- Opt for a warm and robust comfort dish, like the Black Mussels Adriatico. Sauteed in olive oil with fresh garlic, basil, tomatoes and diced shrimp, the mussels are finished off with homemade tomato sauce and served on a bed of linguine. This hearty entrée is fulfilling and guaranteed to put some warmth in your day.

Pairs best with a glass of Chianti Classico

Pairs best with a glass of Bottega Pinot Grigio

JESSE LERMA'S WORLD FAMOUS CHILI

CHILI – HAMLIN FOUNTAIN & GIFTS

When most people think about chili in Corpus Christi, they think about Hamlin Pharmacy and Jesse Lerma. In late July 2020, the greatest short order cook there ever was passed away. Lerma spent just over 60 years working for the local joint and over the years, the “Jesse’s World Famous Chili” became synonymous with the word Hamlin. He was the first to arrive each morning, with a smile on his face, ready to serve the masses. Today, Lerma’s original, coveted recipe is still used, and while you can add it to a burger or fries, we’ll always opt for the proper serving of the dish: in a coffee mug with a saucer, topped with onions and cheese.

CHOOSE YOUR CARB

You’ve landed on chili as your meal of choice, but now the question asks itself: what’s the best food item to pair? First, figure out how you’re wanting to use your side, i.e. to scoop, dip or have as a base. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

CRACKERS

The Simplest Route

FRITOS

The South Texas Treat

CORNBREAD

The Tried and True

FRIES

The Elevated Frito Pie

AN EVEN BETTER BROTH

Preparing a good broth comes from the components you simmer. Below are a few ideas to help get you started if you want to make pho at home.

The Coastal Bend is filled with restaurants serving up a variety of delicious soups. With so many great options, it can be hard to decide which route to take. So, with a few local favorites in mind, here’s a handy decision-making tool to help.

DO YOU PREFER A BROTH BASE?

YES NO

DO YOU LIKE TO CUSTOMIZE? YES NO

THE

SI PM L S NG HT i

What brings you joy? What sounds like the simplest of questions just might force you to take a step back and really think. We posed that very question to nine different community leaders in the Coastal Bend. Each answer serves as an important reminder to slow down, take a step back and appreciate the small things in life.

Illustrations by: Kathy Lee

Alan Holt, KIII Chief Meteorologist

“When I think of things that bring me joy, I could think of the simple and obvious things that bring instantaneous joy, like hitting the exact golf shot I want on command, having an experience with my wife in a foreign place, nailing a difficult forecast or seeing my infant niece for the first time. But it's more than that; it's the process that got me to those moments. The delayed gratification you know is coming when you put in the work. It's looking back at the grind and seeing the payoff. That's joy to me.”

Patrick Rios, City of Rockport Mayor

“A very simple question that, after considerable thought, has both a simple and a complex answer. The simple answer is my family and our relationship with ourselves, our faith and our community. The complex answer, as a public servant, is resolving that, at the end of the day, I have done my best to work for the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Rockport. I find joy in that.”

Gloria Hicks, Ed Hicks CFO and Partner

“My life has been filled with joy. The one thing that has brought me the most joy is working with children. In 2010, I was fortunate to have an elementary school named after me— this is the greatest gift I have received. With the help of our generous community, we have been able to take students to the capital in Austin [and] “Nutcracker” performances, have our own pumpkin patch and create Santa's workshop where every student can take home a toy for Christmas. The sparkle in the students' eyes, and their hugs, is what brings me the most joy.”

Maestro Hector Guzman, Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra

“Granted, I am a musician and yes, you guessed it—music brings me joy. However, as simplistic as this may sound, this joy has manifested itself in so many ways: the Hispanic kid who after a youth concert tells you, ‘When I grow up, I want to be like you,’ to the smiles on people’s faces after a performance of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, to the family whose children have attended your concerts from elementary school to college, to the musician who after a concert exclaims, ‘That was awesome, maestro! Let us do it again!’ May this joy continue for a long time.”

Tina Butler, Former President of TABPHE-CC, Black Chamber of Commerce 2021 Community Leader of the Year

“What brings me joy in life is my faith, my family and close friends. My God, who continues to bless me as I continue this journey in life and for bestowing upon me gifts that allow me to help others. The visual of seeing the fruits of my labor and the breaking of a cycle. Being present to see my daughter blossom and become the young woman she is today brings me immense joy. Last but not least, my friends, who make me laugh when I am down or lift me up and encourage me, which continues to help me serve.”

Mayor Cathy Skurow, City of Portland Mayor

“As I contemplated this question, I thought about a lot of ‘things’ that make me happy. But do these ‘things’ bring me joy? To me, joy is much more than the things that make me happy. It is the excitement felt after anticipating and experiencing things that I value and hold precious. Undoubtedly, the experiences that have given me the most joy in my life have been being a wife, a mother and a public servant. My hope and prayer this new year is for everyone to eagerly anticipate and experience those things that will bring them great joy in 2022.”

Mary Ann Cavazos Beckett, Corpus Christi Caller-Times Editor

“Joy often comes from feeling grateful and from a place of appreciation for simple moments. I feel joy when my kids snuggle up for a long hug, when we laugh and when they get excited to show off their reading skills. There's joy too in seeing my carefree dogs run around the yard and get excited to go on a walk. When it's a sunny day with a breeze and I can see the bay on my morning commute, it makes me smile. Joy also comes from serving our community doing what I love.”

Luis Purón, Executive Director Rockport Center for the Arts

“What brings me the most joy is more than likely universal, and it involves the simple things in life. At the top of my list: spending time with family and friends. Whether it is taking a nature walk together, visiting an art space, discussing a book or film or sharing a meal prepared in unison. Learning new things brings me great happiness. I find that I am most myself when I travel to a new destination, preferably another country. I have been blessed to reside in and visit countries other than the United States, where I gleefully became invested in local cultural customs.”

Carrie Scruggs, City of Aransas Pass Mayor Pro Tempore

“I feel joy when my family is enjoying a home-cooked meal at my home, telling their happenings of the week or making future plans. Catching sailfish and marlin in Costa Rica with my fiance brings an immense amount of pleasure to my adventurous life. I am truly gratified when my home is completely decorated for the Christmas season. Spending time at our family ranch makes me very happy. Entertaining friends at my home, sharing food, great wine and stories, is such a delight for me—and my nightly bubble baths are quite blissful.”

CT Calcium Scoring Available at Radiology Associates

CT Calcium Scoring is a noninvasive test using CT to determine a patient's future risk of developing complications from coronary artery disease (CAD) such as myocardial infarction (MI). It is well established that the more calciﬁed plaque a person has in their coronary arteries, the more likely they will have a coronary event such as an MI.

CT Calcium Scoring has been determined to be the best noninvasive test to select which patients are at highest risk and would most beneﬁt from medical therapy to prevent a coronary event from occurring. This is reported as an Agatston Score, where the higher the score, the more calcium is contained in the coronary arteries and the higher the risk a patient has for an MI.

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Now Experiencing: Facials

Nothing says self-care like booking yourself a facial. With various med spas in the Coastal Bend offering a wide range of services, it can be overwhelming when deciding where to go and what to get. We sent three of our team members, each with varying skin types and lifestyles, to three local spas to experience different facials offered and report back on the treatments.

“My skincare regimen historically involved my own skin assessment and product research. From prescribed Tretinoin creams to every serum imaginable, I’ve typically operated on a guess and check method. For my facial experience, I went to Halcyon Med Spa and Lead Medical Aesthetician Evette Ford took me under her wing. Ford knows what she’s doing, and can truly be described as a psychic for your skin. With the Essential House Facial, protocol, products and techniques are chosen to fit your skin type and designed to meet your current skin needs.

After our consultation, Ford had a firm grasp on my specific skin needs, with stress and hormones being at the route of my issues. A cleansing, exfoliation and extraction were done to get rid of acne lesions. Next was a Laser Genesis treatment, which helps with pigmentation scarring, acne, discoloration and texture through the killing of bacteria. This helps to really clear up your skin, resulting in a beautiful glow with no downtime required – which is great for busy schedules. The treatment left my skin feeling hydrated and radiant, even a week after."

Read full review online.

“As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized semi-regular facials are necessary to truly take care of my skin. We put daily effort and financial resources into looking our best through so many avenues, yet often neglect one of the most important and visible features of ourselves, our face. I’ve routinely used Retin-A, home acids, topical treatments, chemical peels and microdermabrasion treatments to keep my skin healthy.

I was excited to visit Skincare Butik and try its Dermal Infusion facial an advanced microdermabrasion that exfoliates, extracts and infuses serum products into the skin. The process included removing damaged skin cells, combined with customized serums for my combination skin, with a focus on fine lines and hydration. Then, a unique brightening alginate moulding masque covered my eyes and lips, which went on as a liquid and peeled off like jelly after being under therapeutic LED lights. The treatment left my face feeling super hydrated, supple and carried a glow for several days, with hardly any redness."

Read full review online.

"Cue 'Let's Hear It for the Boy' because we're talking about the Gentlemen's Facial, and more specifically the Gentlemen's Facial that blew all others out of the water. I've never been one who cares for gendering beauty procedures but as someone who identifies as male, I've received several facials specifically catered to men. Most are fairly basic, unfussy and over before you know it. Which is why I was over the moon when I experienced the Gentlemen's Facial from Licensed Medical Aesthetician Alma Galvez at the Corpus Christi Institute of Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery

The overall facial was relaxing, thorough and rejuventating. The facial started off with dermaplaning to remove dead skin and vellus (peach fuzz). Next was the Hydrafacial Deluxe which consisted of a 3-step cleansing treatment that both exfoliates and infuses the skin with hydration and antioxidants. The treament also allows for customizable facial boosters and LED light treatments for other skin concerns. The facial ends with a Lymphatic massage, which is essential in boosting blood circulation and removing toxins."

Read full review online.

Gabriel Lopez, M.D.

Board Certified in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Rudy Garza, M.D.

Board Eligible in Pain Medicine Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine Gabriel Lopez, M.D.

Are you suffering from Chronic Pain?

Dr. Lopez may be able to help.

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

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

* Most insurances accepted * Both Drs. are fluent in Spanish

* Both Drs. are fluent in Spanish

SPID Corpus Christi, TX 78415

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

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

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

, Christus Health Silver, and Triwest.

Specializing in Interventional Pain | Fellowship Trained in Pain Medicine

Board Certified in Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology

Board Certified in Pain Medicine by the American Board of Anesthesiology 3825 SPID Corpus Christi, Tx 78415 (Located between Kostoryz & Weber) 361.225.0089 • www.ccpainmed.com • “Se Habla Español”

Belkis Clarke-Mitcham's

go-to WELLNESS ROUTINE

HOW THE PERSONAL LIFE COACH, MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER AND AUTHOR ACHIEVES ZEN BEAUTY

Ilead a super busy life as an international speaker, communication trainer, author, wife, mom and business owner. So creating balance and making sure I take care of myself is a priority. By taking care of myself, I ensure I give my best in every area of my life. With that in mind, I strive for a zen state of being.

Zen was initially used to describe a style of ancient Japanese art and architecture, but has now grown to symbolize a way of living. The goal is to live in the present moment and avoid getting caught up in thoughts of the past or future. The word "zen" is defined as a state of calm; a feeling of oneness with all things and peace with oneself and the world around you. This is the mindset I have toward beauty, and I have a few ways to achieve zen beauty.

I consciously practice the zen beauty routine, a more natural approach to skincare. It's all about taking time for myself, being mindful of my skin and getting back in touch with my body. It reduces the number of products I use on my body and face. The idea behind the zen beauty routine is to take care of your skin while at the same time taking care of your mental health. For me, this is priceless.

To learn more Clarke-Mitchem’s personal journey and life coaching business, visit her website at belkisclarke.com

1. Start your day by taking time for yourself.

Giving myself this little "me time" helps me not feel rushed throughout the day. With all the upheavals and uncertainties, it can be challenging to take time. However, it is imperative that we do. When we take time for ourselves in the morning, we are more productive and energetic throughout the day. We also have a better mood and will be less likely to snap at others or make mistakes. I get up before the rest of my house, prepare a cup of my favorite tea—raw ginger soaked in hot water with a dash of honey—as I whisper affirmations (I am beautiful; It is a great day; I am successful; Nothing shall disturb my peace of mind, etc.), then stroll to my back door and gaze out at the lake. I step outside and let the morning air wash over me most mornings, bringing my skin and body alive. It is a moment when I ground myself and set the tone for the day.

The question is whether you choose to see it as something to be ashamed of or to embrace and learn how to love it, just the way it is.

5) Get in tune with your body.

2) Appreciate the power of water and never skip moisturizing.

Drinking plenty of water makes my skin look more youthful and hydrated, making it easier to apply moisturizer (Meaningful Beauty day cream and recovery cream) or foundation (bareMinerals) without looking streaky or cakey. There is a lot of talk about skincare, but the truth is moisturizers and masks are only as good as the skin underneath them. I usually go without makeup, and I keep it very light when I wear any. But I never skip moisturizer, and I don't slack off on drinking water.

3) Look for beauty in your imperfections.

The idea that one's flaws are imperfections is a dated concept. I find beauty in my skin as it is. One way to do

Yoga is a 5,000-year-old Indian physical and mental discipline known for its ability to calm the mind and heal the body. It is scientifically proven to reduce stress, build strength, improve flexibility and coordination and promote breathing techniques. What does yoga have to do with beauty? Why, everything! It also increases happiness by raising serotonin levels. This leads to a healthierlooking complexion with fewer wrinkles and saggy skin. Yoga improves your complexion by increasing blood flow to your face, bringing nutrients to the surface that are great for that healthy glow.

6) Laughter is the best beauty treatment.

Laughter releases endorphins, moodboosters that lift your heart rate and increase circulation for a healthy glow. It reduces stress and skin-damaging cortisol levels, boosts immunity and is a natural painkiller. I often laugh, even at myself, when I do silly things. Find reasons to laugh. It is genuinely an excellent beauty treatment.

7) Enjoy winding down.

Something about a candle speaks to our heartstrings and helps create a calming atmosphere in any room, especially when combined with essential oils. Every night before bed, I light a candle, put on soft

classical music, turn off the lights and take a warm shower. I let the water wash away the unwanted thoughts and feelings from the day and embrace the good things in my present. This is when I meditate on scriptures to build my spiritual strength. I especially love Woodlot candles; they are organic, blended and scented with essential oils, and come in recyclable glass.

8) Above all, my secret beauty treatment is being comfortable with who I am.

The pressure of being judged by others harms one's self-esteem and self-image, leading to a more unhappy life. It is important to remember that you are beautiful because you are unique. Many women feel pressured to have a specific look to be considered beautiful in today's society. The truth is that nobody can make you feel bad about yourself unless you let them. One of the ways I use to be happy with myself is to find a form of selfexpression that gives me joy and make it a daily routine.

Top Doctors 2022 +

THE ANNUAL TOP DOCTORS LIST PROVIDES THE NAMES OF 361-AREA DOCTORS RECOMMENDED BY THEIR PEERS. THE 2022 LIST CONTAINS OVER 150 DOCTORS LISTED ALPHABETICALLY AND SECTIONED BY SPECIALTY AREA.

ALLERGY IMMUNOLOGY

Adrienne Tinana

Allergy Partners of Corpus Christi

361-985-0323

ANESTHESIOLOGY

Euleche Alanmanou

Driscoll Children's Hospital

Anesthesiology

361-694-5445

Camille S. Graham

Driscoll Children's Hospital

Anesthesiology

361-694-5445

Javier Joglar

Driscoll Children's Hospital

Anesthesiology

361-694-5445

CARDIOLOGY

Thomas Alexander

Corpus Christi Heart Clinic

361-883-3962

Shamim BadruddinMawji

Coastal Cardiology PLLC 361-887-2900

Lawrence Brenner

Corpus Christi Heart Clinic 361-883-3962

Kasi Chekuri

Corpus Christi Heart Clinic 361-883-3962

Christel Cuevas Corpus Christi Heart Clinic 361-883-3962

Srikanth Damaraju

Coastal Cardiology PLLC 361-887-2900

Ray Graf

Coastal Cardiology PLLC 361-887-2900

Carlos E. MartinezQuinonez

Cardiology Associates of Corpus Christi | 361-888-8271

Scott W. McKinstry

Cardiology Associates of Corpus Christi | 361-888-8271

John Douglas Pappas Cardiology Associates of Corpus Christi | 361-888-8271

Mike Rodriguez

Cardiology Associates of Corpus Christi | 361-888-8271

Charles J. Schechter

Coastal Cardiology PLLC 361-887-2900

Gregg L. Silverman

Coastal Cardiology PLLC 361-887-2900

Travis Taylor

Coastal Cardiology PLLC 361-887-2900

CARDIOTHORACIC SURGERY

Mark R. Bielefeld J Mark Morales MDPA 361-854-0201

John Mark Morales J Mark Morales MDPA 361-854-0201

Sergio Tavares CHRISTUS Health 361-884-7081

CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Paul W. Heath

Corpus Christi Heart Clinic 361-883-3962

COLON & RECTAL SURGERY

Tara L. Hahn

Colon and Rectal Surgeons of South Texas 361-883-3831

Carmen R. Varin

South Texas Surgical Hospital 361-993-2000

COSMETIC SURGERY

Vijay Bindingnavele Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery 361-888-7417

Herve F. Gentile

Herve F. Gentile MD FACS 361-881-9999

DERMATOLOGY

Nathan Davis South Texas Dermatology 361-882-5560

DEVELOPMENTALBEHAVIORAL PEDIATRICS

Maricela D. Gulbronson Driscoll Children's Hospital Developmental Pediatric Medicine 361-694-5650

DIAGNOSTIC RADIOLOGY

Alexander T. Aitken Radiology & Imaging 361-888-6684

Mailan Melissa Cao Radiology Associates LLP 361-887-7000

Charles B. Gover Radiology Associates LLP 361-887-7000

Anthony N. Hein Radiology & Imaging 361-888-6684

EMERGENCY MEDICINE

John Herrick

CHRISTUS Spohn Texas A&M Emergency Medicine Residency 361-861-1864

Sean Hutzler

CHRISTUS Spohn Texas A&M Emergency Medicine Residency 361-861-1864

Shani Italiya

CHRISTUS Spohn Texas A&M Emergency Medicine Residency 361-861-1864

Haley Sutherland

CHRISTUS Spohn Texas A&M Emergency Medicine Residency 361-861-1864

ENDOCRINOLOGY DIABETES & METABOLISM

Brandi Addison

CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic 361-696-6200

Jacqueline Cohn CHRISTUS Health 361-888-5794

FAMILY MEDICINE

Mark A. Dodson MDVIP 361-853-5678

Avegiyel Dunn CHRISTUS Health 361-358-9912

William C. Flores

WellMed at Crosstown 361-853-3995

Jonathan E. Martin

Jonathan Martin MD 361-808-7200

Frank E. Martinez Frank E Martinez MD 361-992-1600

Guillermo Ramirez WellMed at Greenwood 361-206-0737

John E. Schulze

Dr. John Schulze MD 361-882-1751

Frederick R. Sherron Corpus Christi Family Medicine 361-808-7200

Sarita A. Warrick

WellMed at Wooldridge 361-994-8979

Robert Webster CHRISTUS Health 361-902-4470

GASTROENTEROLOGY

Luis Armstrong

Gastroenterology & Advanced Endoscopy Specialists PLLC 361-882-3010

Joanna R. Linsteadt Joanna Linsteadt MD 361-884-2858

GENERAL SURGERY

Mitchell Dye

Surgical Associates of Corpus Christi | 361-881-8333

Michael Ewing

Surgical Associates of Corpus Christi 361-881-8333

Paul E. Farek

Paul E Farek MD 361-882-1245

Jegan Gopal The Better Weigh Center 361-500-2898

Victor Ortiz

Surgical Associates of Corpus Christi 361-881-8333

Lloyd H. Stegemann The Better Weigh Center 361-500-2898

Steven A. Vela South Texas Surgical Hospital 361-993-2000

GERIATRIC MEDICINE

Kathleen Soch

CHRISTUS Family Medicine Academic Center 361-902-4789

HAND SURGERY

Ryan Thomas South Texas Bone and Joint 361-854-0811

HEMATOLOGY

Yvonne Manalo Coastal Bend Cancer Center 361-887-0067

Emile Salloum Coastal Bend Cancer Center 361-887-0067

Ajay Sehgal Coastal Bend Cancer Center 361-887-0067

Alfonso Villamil Coastal Bend Cancer Center 361-887-0067

HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE

Yvonne Hinojosa CHRISTUS Family Medicine Academic Center 361-902-4789

Ronald D. Stephens Specialists for HealthCorpus Christi 361-371-3896

INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Srikanth Ramachandruni

Rishi & Srikanth PA 321-917-9263

INTERNAL MEDICINE

Ronald Bruce

Dr Ronald Bruce DO 361-729-5388

Sean Caine WellMed at Cabaniss Field 361-985-9355

Eric Madarang MCCI of Texas Hospitalist Group 361-882-6161

Arvind G. Modak Arvind Modak MD 361-985-1115

J. Michael Neff CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic 361-696-6200

Sudhakar Papineni Corpus Christi Hospitalists PLLC 361-887-5752

Mark Strauss CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic 361-696-6200

NEPHROLOGY

Samhar I. Al-Akash Driscoll Children's Hospital Nephrology 361-694-5022

Abeer Kaldas Comprehensive Kidney Care 361-800-8175

William L. Shaffer

Kidney Specialists of South Texas PA 361-887-8451

Fariba Zarinetchi

Kidney Specialists of South Texas PA 361-887-8451

NEUROLOGICAL SURGERY

Ashley Hanna

Driscoll Children's Hospital Neurosurgery 361-694-4700

NEUROLOGY

Carol DeLine

Driscoll Children's Hospital Neurology | 361-694-6747

Jorge E. Mendizabal Corpus Christi Neurology 361-853-0867

OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

Christine Canterbury Corpus Christi Women's Clinic 361-851-5000

Romulo Corrada Coastal Bend Women's Center 361-993-6000

Heather Dixon Coastal Bend Women's Center 361-993-6000

Mary Joy S. Hyde Obstetrical & Gynecological Associates of Corpus Christi 361-994-5454

Noe Lira CHRISTUS Health 361-991-7900

Sophia J. Ommani Coastal Bend Women's Center 361-993-6000

Maria A. Pizarro

Coastal Bend Women's Center 361-993-6000

Laura L. Shelton

Obstetrical & Gynecological Associates of Corpus Christi 361-994-5454

E. Stanton Shoemaker Innovations in Women's Health 361-929-7088

Mary Joy Weathersby Obstetrical & Gynecological Associates of Corpus Christi 361-994-5454

OPHTHALMOLOGY

Sanjay Agarwal Coastal Bend Retina PA 361-980-1115

Shahed Y. Ghoghawala South Texas Eye Consultants 361-992-9400

Shaheen Karim Coastal Bend Retina PA 361-980-1115

Adam L. Spengler Berkeley Eye Center 361-992-1060

Top Doctors 2022 +

ORTHOPEDIC SURGERY

Christopher Comstock

Driscoll Children's Hospital Orthopaedic Services 361-694-5057

Justin Klimisch South Texas Bone and Joint 361-854-0811

Christopher Larkins South Texas Bone and Joint 361-854-0811

John Masciale South Texas Bone and Joint 361-854-0811

Erick M. Santos

South Central Texas Bone & Joint Center PA 361-561-3500

Jeffrey R. Schlimmer Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi 361-883-2000

Roger Timperlake

Driscoll Children's Hospital Orthopaedic Services 361-694-5057

ORTHOPEDICS

Brian L. Patterson Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi 361-883-2000

OTALARYNGOLOGY EAR NOSE THROAT

Randall S. Zane Ear Nose & Throat Associates of Corpus Christi PA 361-854-7000

PAIN MANAGEMENT

Mitchell Engle Institute Precision Pain Medicine 361-387-0046

Gabriel Lopez Corpus Christi Pain Medicine 361-225-0089

Michael Tschickardt Coastal Bend Pain Management 361-854-1910

PATHOLOGY

Michael E. Bailey Histopath | 361-992-4211

PEDIATRIC CARDIOLOGY

Muhammad Khan

Driscoll Children's Hospital Cardiology | 361-694-5086

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Ana Maria Paez

Driscoll Children's Hospital Endocrine and Diabetes Center 361-694-4986

PEDIATRIC GASTROENTEROLOGY

Sabeen A. Syed

Driscoll Children's Hospital

Gastroenterology

361-694-6128

PEDIATRIC INFECTIOUS DISEASE

Jaime Fergie

Driscoll Children's Hospital Infectious Diseases

361-694-6128

PEDIATRIC NEPHROLOGY

Salam I. Gharaybeh

Driscoll Children's Hospital Nephrology | 361-694-5022

PEDIATRIC SURGERY

Stephen Almond

Driscoll Children's Hospital Pediatric Surgery 361-694-4700

PEDIATRICS

Sabeen Rani Rani Pediatrics 361-334-2200

PEDIATRICS GENERAL

Ali F. Candas

Coastal Children's Clinic

361-855-7346

Edgar L. Cortes

Coastal Children's Clinic

361-855-7346

Summary. DataJoe Research is a software and research company specializing in data collection and verification, and conducts various nominations across the United States on behalf of publishers. To create the “top doctors” list, DataJoe Research facilitated an online peer-voting process, also referencing government sources. DataJoe then tallied the votes per category for each doctor to isolate the top nominees in each category. After collecting nominations and additional information, DataJoe checked and confirmed that each published winner had a current, active license status with the state regulatory board. If we were not able to find evidence of a doctor’s current, active registration with the state regulatory board, that doctor was excluded from the list. In addition,

E. Richard Cortes

Coastal Children's Clinic

361-855-7346

Emily Hartman

ABC Pediatrics

361-853-3222

Katherine H. Hensley

Coastal Children's Clinic

361-855-7346

Tessa Perez

Driscoll Health Plaza

361-853-3222

Lu Medina

ABC Pediatrics

361-853-3222

Susan Schulze

ABC Pediatrics

361-853-3222

PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY

Vanessa Dimas

Driscoll Children's Hospital

Craniofacial and Cleft Center

361-694-4444

Kevin Hopkins

Driscoll Children's Hospital Craniofacial and Cleft Center 361-694-4444

Cassidy Wright Hinojosa

Coastal Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Center | 361-402-9819

PSYCHIATRY

Michael Hernandez

M Hernandez MD PLLC 361-906-0166

John O. Lusins III South Texas Mental Health Associates 361-356-6441

Nestor Praderio Psychiatric Consulting Services 361-887-9600

Megan Talley

South Texas Mental Health Associates 361-356-6441

PULMONOLOGY

Rene Franco Jr. Bayside Pulmonology 361-885-7722

Rajeev Narang

South Texas Pulmonary & Critical Care Associates 361-884-2687

Salim Surani

PAM Health Specialty Hospital of Corpus Christi North 361-881-3223

RADIATION ONCOLOGY

Travis Thompson

Coastal Bend Cancer Center 361-334-5130

RHEUMATOLOGY

Melissa C. Mizesko

Driscoll Children's Hospital Rheumatology 361-694-4442

Adriana Pop Moody

Corpus Christi Rheumatology Clinic | 361-885-0010

SPINE SURGERY

Mathew T. Alexander

CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi 844-866-4333

John M. Borkowski

South Texas Bone and Joint 361-854-0811

Patrick L. Gleason

NeuroSurgery of Corpus Christi 361-857-5556

SPORTS MEDICINE

Charles Breckenridge South Texas Bone and Joint 361-854-0811

Michael Fuentes CHRISTUS Health 361-888-7716

Michael Montgomery South Texas Bone and Joint 361-854-0811

any doctor who has been disciplined, up to the time-frame of our review process for an infraction by the state regulatory board, was excluded from the list. Finally, DataJoe presented the tallied result to the magazine for its final review and adjustments. Final note. We recognize that there are many good doctors who are not shown in this representative list. This is only a sampling of the huge array of talented professionals within the region. Inclusion in the list is based on the opinions of responding doctors in the region and the results of our research campaign. We take time and energy to ensure fair voting, although we understand that the results of this survey nomination are not an objective metric. We certainly do not discount the fact that many, many good

Peter C. Neff

Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi 361-883-2000

W. Kyle Wilson

South Texas Bone and Joint 361-854-0811

SURGICAL ONCOLOGY

Ali Maawy Surgical Associates of Corpus Christi 361-881-8333

UROLOGY

N. Christopher Brehm Corpus Christi Urology Group PLLC 361-884-6381

Jason D. Fisher Corpus Christi Urology Group PLLC 361-884-6381

Robert A. May Jr. Corpus Christi Urology Group PLLC 361-884-6381

Robert A. Naismith Corpus Christi Urology Group PLLC 361-884-6381

Alan A. Nisbet Corpus Christi Urology Group PLLC 361-884-6381

Leon I. Smith-Harrison Driscoll Children's Hospital Urology 361-694-4700

VASCULAR SURGERY

Steven Steele CHRISTUS Health 361-851-0110

and effective doctors may not appear on the list. Disclaimers. DataJoe uses best practices and exercises great care in assembling content for this list. DataJoe does not warrant that the data contained within the list are complete or accurate. DataJoe 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. All rights reserved. No commercial use of the information in this list may be made without written permission from DataJoe.

Questions? For research/methodology questions, contact the research team at surveys@datajoe.com.

Dr. Cassidy Hinojosa

COSMETIC & PLASTIC SURGERY

Dr. Cassidy Hinojosa is the only board-certified female plastic surgeon in the Coastal Bend area who performs adult plastic surgery. Originally from Mississippi, Dr. Hinojosa moved to Texas as a child, where she grew up in San Antonio. She knew from a young age that she wanted to be a surgeon. Her father is a general surgeon, and she spent much of her free time growing up accompanying him on hospital rounds and visiting with patients. This passion for medicine stayed with her and she was granted early acceptance into Texas A&M’s medical school out of high school. She went on to graduate summa cum laude with her medical degree, and then did Plastic surgery residency at The University of Missouri.

Following residency she decided to move back to Texas to practice, and in March 2021 opened up her own practice Coastal Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Center. Since the opening of her practice she has been named as Corpus Christi’s Best Plastic Surgeon in The Caller Times “Best of the Best”.

Dr. Hinojosa has a passion for what she does. She loves being able to work with people from all walks of life. As a young mother herself she finds that she can relate to a lot of her patients, especially those women that are wanting “mommy makeovers.” She offers a variety of services including both cosmetic as well as reconstructive surgeries, such as: abdominoplasties, breast augmentations, breast lifts, liposuction, hand surgery, complex wounds, skin cancers, breast reconstruction, and much more. For a full list of services please visit her website www.hinojosaplasticsurgery.com

Ana Maria Paez, MD, FAAP

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Ana Maria Paez, MD, FAAP is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Pediatric Endocrinologist with over 10 years of experience. She speaks English and Spanish fluently. Dr. Paez earned her undergraduate degree in biochemistry from Louisiana State University, and obtained her Doctor of Medicine degree from Ponce Health Sciences University while graduating with honors and being elected to the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. Following medical school, she completed both her residency in Pediatrics and fellowship in Pediatric Endocrinology at University of Texas Health Science Center-San Antonio. During training, her research project won the 3rd annual Frontiers of Translational Science Research Day Award-Clinical Fellow Category and was later presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes Meeting Symposium in Berlin, Germany.

Dr. Paez is passionate about teaching the future generation of medical students and residents. She is teaching faculty at Driscoll Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi, and the current Medical Director of Children’s Diabetes and Endocrine Center of South Texas, where she and her colleagues—Dr. Rajan Senguttuvan, Dr. Jacqueline Reyes Diaz, Dr. Anca Tomsa and Jennifer Olivarez, NP—and an amazing team of CDCES and nurses provide outstanding care to patients from over 32 counties in south Texas. She also works and travels with Driscoll Children’s Hospital Satellite Specialty Clinic in Laredo, Texas.

Outside the office, Dr. Paez enjoys spending time with her husband, being outdoors in the beautiful Coastal Bend and traveling. Living in south Texas, she appreciates the rich culture and diverse history our community has to offer.

Dr. Gabriel Lopez

PAIN MANAGEMENT

Dr. Gabriel Lopez attended and graduated from Texas A&M University, College Station in 1996 and then graduated from University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School in 2000. He then completed his Anesthesia Residency at Loma Linda Hospital in California in 2014 where he was Chief Resident. He then pursued a Pain Management Fellowship at The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.

He started his own practice, Corpus Christi Pain Medicine, in 2006 with just two staff members, but expanded the clinic quickly to now having 15 full-time employees and a nurse practitioner. The clinic is his home away from home and he treats all his staff like family. With the motto “Making Lives Better,” Dr. Lopez goes above and beyond to treat each patient’s individual pain.

Dr. Gabriel Lopez has resided in Corpus Christi for 16 years now along with his wife, Angelina and his two beautiful daughters, Gabriela 14, and Carolina 10. In his spare time he enjoys wake surfing and training in martial arts.

Dr. Lopez’s vision for improving and expanding patient care includes the addition of his new surgical center, Southside Specialty Surgical Center, which opened in December 2019 on Holly Road. They are currently doing Pain Management cases at the Surgery Center with Spine Surgery to be added soon as well. He strives to make it a world class Ambulatory Surgical Center that is the premier choice for patients and surgeons for outpatient surgical services.

Dr Shoemaker is also an expert in optimal hormone therapy for men and women.

INNOVATIONS IN HEALTH, E. STANTON SHOEMAKER MD

5920 Saratoga Blvd #101, Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Ana Maria Paez, MD, FAAP

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Ana Maria Paez, MD, FAAP is a board certified; fellowship trained Pediatric Endocrinologist with over 10 years of experience. She speaks English and Spanish fluently. Dr. Paez earned her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from Louisiana State University, and she obtained her Doctor of Medicine degree from Ponce Health Sciences University while graduating with honors and being elected to the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. Following medical school, she completed both her residency in Pediatrics and fellowship in Pediatric Endocrinology at University of Texas Health Science Center-San Antonio. During training, her research project won the 3rd Annual Frontiers of Translational Science Research Day Award- Clinical Fellow Category and was later presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes Meeting Symposium in Berlin, Germany.

Roger Timperlake, MD Christopher Comstock, MD

PEDIATRIC ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Roger Timperlake, MD and Christopher Comstock, MD are board-certified, fellowshiptrained pediatric orthopaedic surgeons, affiliated with Driscoll Children’s Hospital. They are thankful for the opportunity to practice pediatric orthopaedic surgery in South Texas during the last 29 years. “We value the trust South Texas families have placed with us. Thank you!”

Dr. Paez strives to educate patients and help guide them on a path of improved health and wellness. She has extensive experience in treating patients with diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease, disorders of the adrenal glands, differences in sexual development, and bone metabolism. Dr. Paez is passionate about teaching the future generation of medical students and residents. She is teaching faculty at Driscoll Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi, TX. Dr. Paez is the current Medical Director of Children’s Diabetes and Endocrine Center of South Texas where she and her colleagues (Dr. Rajan Senguttuvan, Dr. Jacqueline Reyes Diaz, Dr. Anca Tomsa and Jennifer Olivarez, NP), amazing team of CDCES and nurses provide outstanding care to patients from over 32 counties in South Texas. She also works and travels with Driscoll Children’s Hospital Satellite Specialty Clinic in Laredo, TX.

Outside of the office, Dr. Paez enjoys spending time with her husband, being outdoors in the beautiful coastal bend and traveling. Living in South Texas, she appreciates the rich culture and diverse history our community has to offer.

DRISCOLL CHILDREN’S HOPSITAL

3533 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 361.694.5000 | driscollchildrens.org

Dr. Langham Gleason

NEUROSURGERY

Langham Gleason is a board-certified neurosurgeon who, with Howard Smith, MD, JD, founded Neurosurgery of Corpus Christi. Dr. Gleason earned a BA magna cum laude in philosophy and English from Columbia University. He then studied medical ethics at Balliol College, Oxford University. Dr. Gleason received his MD from Harvard and trained in neurosurgery at Boston Children’s Hospital with a Brigham & Women’s residency.

He applies the same attention to detail in each operation that he learned caring for the tiniest patients at Boston Children’s. Specializing in minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Gleason was the first neurosurgeon in south Texas to perform percutaneous cervical fusions via a single 9 mm incision. He is the only one to use endoscopic neurosurgery in both the brain and spine, and to regularly use computer-guided placement of cervical spinal hardware. Dr. Gleason’s goal is to heal patients through advice, medications or neurosurgery, and to always try to comfort patients and their families.

Ana Maria Paez,

PEDIATRIC ENDOCRINOLOGY

Ana Maria Paez, MD, FAAP is a board fellowship trained Pediatric Endocrinologist over 10 years of experience. She speaks Spanish fluently. Dr. Paez earned her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from Louisiana University, and she obtained her Doctor degree from Ponce Health Sciences while graduating with honors and being the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. Following medical school, she both her residency in Pediatrics and Pediatric Endocrinology at University of Science Center-San Antonio. During research project won the 3rd Annual Translational Science Research Day AwardFellow Category and was later presented European Association for the Study Meeting Symposium in Berlin, Germany.

Dr. Paez strives to educate patients and them on a path of improved health and has extensive experience in treating diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease, disorders adrenal glands, differences in sexual and bone metabolism. Dr. Paez is passionate teaching the future generation of medical and residents. She is teaching faculty Children’s Hospital in Corpus Christi, TX. the current Medical Director of Children’s and Endocrine Center of South Texas where her colleagues (Dr. Rajan Senguttuvan, Reyes Diaz, Dr. Anca Tomsa and Jennifer NP), amazing team of CDCES and nurses outstanding care to patients from over in South Texas. She also works and Driscoll Children’s Hospital Satellite Specialty in Laredo, TX.

Outside of the office, Dr. Paez enjoys with her husband, being outdoors in coastal bend and traveling. Living in South appreciates the rich culture and diverse community has to offer.

• For the past 25 years, Dr. Herve` Gentile`s practice has been 100% exclusively limited to Aesthetic Surgery and all aspects of non-surgical Cosmetic Treatments.

• Triple Boarded Plastic Surgeon Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Gentile was one of the first of only a handful of Triple Boarded Plastic Surgeons.

• Constant invited speaker on Cosmetic Surgery by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in the USA and Internationally (Miami, Dubai, Monaco, Rio Janeiro,…)

• Continually voted by his peers for many years to be included by Castle Connolly® and earlier by Best Doctors of America®. Both are the US preeminent medical-database authority to identify the highestrated specialty physicians, all of whom are nominated by their peers after an extensive survey process of thousands of doctors each year.

• Dr. Gentile held a teaching position since 1993 as Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery (Plastic Surgery) at the Medical College of Georgia, Univ. of Georgia Systems.

• Served in the USAF flying F- 4 Phantoms. This contributed to the formation of the necessary discipline of quick decision abilities required to be a complete rounded plastic surgeon.

• With his artistic abilities, Dr. Herve` Gentile designed the first in-office surgery center accredited in South Texas in the late 90`s. It features the most current technology which provides for patient convenience, comfort, and privacy with all the safety features, but without the added expenses and inconveniences of a hospital setting.

• Dr. Gentile`s tip when seeking plastic surgery is to expect to improve your looks and raise your self-esteem, but you must be prepared to have realistic expectations. Due diligence is a must in choosing the most qualified surgeon. Many are practicing without the necessary experience and qualifications. Dr. Gentile`s artistic skills, extensive training and years of experience allows him to confidently perform a variety of advanced procedures.

A trusted primary care physician is the foundation of health management and at CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic, our primary care physicians deliver a complete healing experience that respects the patient:

• Wellness Exams and Preventative Medicine

• Women’s Services

• Chronic and Acute Illness

• Minor Emergencies and Lab Services

• Access to a network of specialists and hospitals

With CHRISTUS Trinity Clinic, your life has one less worry.

Scan QR code for same-day and next-day appointments or call 844.274.DOCS.

Pediatric Endocrinology

Ana Maria Paez, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital

Endocrine and Diabetes Center

Pediatric Nephrology

Salam I. Gharaybeh, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Nephrology

Orthopaedic Surgery

Christopher Comstock, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Orthopaedic Services

Pediatric Gastroenterology

Sabeen A. Syed, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Gastroenterology

Neurology

Carol DeLine, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Neurology

Pediatric Surgery

Stephen Almond, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Pediatric Surgery

Pediatric Infectious Diseases

Jaime Fergie, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Infectious Diseases

Neurological Surgery

Ashley Hanna, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Neurosurgery

Rheumatology

Melissa C. Mizesko, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rheumatology

Pediatric Nephrology

Samhar I. Al-Akash, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Nephrology

Orthopaedic Surgery

Roger Timperlake, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Orthopaedic Services

Urology

León I. Smith-Harrison, MD

Driscoll Children’s Hospital Urology

The physicians at The Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi are dedicated to providing exceptional patient care.

Our surgeons use the latest in robotic assisted joint replacement technology. We always strive to bring the latest advances in technology to our patients to improve outcomes.

• Smaller incisions leading to less post-operative pain

• Rapid recovery and reducing length of stay in hospital

• Reduced injury to adjacent tissues and saving healthy bone

• Precise placement of the implant

• Increased longevity of the implant

M.D. MATTHEW D. HNATOW, M.D. BRIAN L. PATTERSON, M.D.

Contact our office at 361-883-2000 to schedule an appointment or visit our website at orthocentercc.com to learn more about Mako SmartRobotics™

MIGUEL

BERASTAIN, JR.,

If you’re in need of a reputable and personable ObGyn Corpus Christi TX residents rely on the professional and caring staff at Innovations in Women’s Health under the direction of gynecologic surgeon Dr. E. Stanton Shoemaker at his office in Corpus Christi, TX.

• Menopause Treatment

• Urinary Incontinence

• High Risk Pregnancy

• Vaginal Rejuvenation

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse

• Hysterectomy

• Skin Tightening

Twinkle

Everyone loves a visit from the toothy fairy! Twinkle the Tooth Fairy provides a program designed to teach children dental habits. This program is funfilled, engaging and educational! Programs are offered to day care centers, preschools, elementary schools, and summer programs throughout Corpus Christi and the surrounding areas.

Who is Scout?

Scout is Kennedy Dental Care’s certified therapy dog. Scout’s job is to take the edge off of nervous and uncertain patients or parents. She will make your child’s visit with us even more fun and enjoyable. Please follow us on Instagram and Facebook for more Scout content!

Benefits of Therapy Animals

Studies have shown that being in the presence of an animal companion, reduces any stress or anxiety and also comforts people.

I would like Scout at my appointment. What do I do?

Please let us know when you make your appointment so we can make sure Scout will be at the office for your visit. She does have trainer mandated off-days during the week, so it is important to request her when you schedule your appointment.

HOME & GARDEN

Home Away From Home

MODERN AND TRADITIONAL COASTAL DÉCOR COMBINE TO DEFINE THIS DREAMY FAMILY VACATION HOME BY:

JACQUELINE GONZALEZ

PHOTOS BY: JASON PAGE

Growing up in a large family meant many fun gettogethers, which inspired sisters Maggie Dundon and Erin White to search for a vacation home of their own to carry out these traditions. They wanted a home with a kid-friendly environment, and many nearby activities for the whole family to enjoy. After visiting Port Aransas in the fall of 2020 from their home in Houston, the sisters fell in love with the beach town and its short drive to Corpus Christi.

What they really loved was the welcoming environment, and although they’ve traveled to many spots over the years, there was something magical about Cinnamon Shore. The entire coastal ambience, including the beaches, pools, boardwalks and local shops, provided an air of comfort that created a desire to plan more family trips. They had such a fabulous time on their vacation that they returned to Houston with a pending contract on their own home.

One of the many reasons they fell in love with this stunning 5-bedroom home was the amazing design Chris Beach of Decorum put together. Maintaining the coastal ambience was important, so when it came to selecting the right décor, Dundon and White took the modern, seaside theme Beach presented and combined their distinctive styles to add their own touches, creating the fresh feeling that greets guests upon arrival.

Choosing the right color palette is important, so they decided to run with a more traditional color scheme that includes whites and creams to form the base while incorporating touches of deep blues for a spritz of the ocean. They also opted for wood and gold accents for added warmth.

Selecting the furniture and décor was fun, yet a bit challenging. Keeping their children in mind, the sisters wanted to find beautiful pieces that were also functional and kid-friendly. After all, Dundon and White agree that “no one

likes to go on vacation and constantly be watching out for breakables.” The accessories were kept to a minimum; just enough to add the right touch of personality.

Ample seating in the family room was a must, so they changed the original design to create a prime conversational space. The large, custom cream-colored sectional sofa and two wooden chairs surround a round coffee table perfect for playing board games. Two black rattan chairs with creamcolored shaggy pillows fill in the space between the family room and the corner banquet in the dining area, while adding additional seating options. The combination of navy, black and cream shades creates

a classic-meets-cozy look while allowing for large doses of sunshine.

While the natural lighting reflects nicely off the white walls in much of the home, they decided to have a little fun with wall coverings and upholstery fabrics by Thibault to add more character to the living room, dining area and work nook. They also opted for palm wallpaper in fun, bright blue and green hues in the powder room, along with black and white tilework in the second-floor shower.

The main bedrooms each continue the coastal theme and color palette, while artwork, rattan and wood details and glorious outdoor views complete each space. The bunk room, dressed in a sleek and

One of the easiest ways to make a design statement within the bedroom is by the addition of a striking four-poster bed frame.

modern black and white theme, features three pairs of twin builtin bunks to sleep six, making it a great space for kids. The white shiplap walls add charm, and the sturdy ladders make climbing into bed less of a chore.

Although they love the proximity and selection of restaurants in the area, Dundon and White both enjoy cooking. “When you’re on vacation, if you choose to cook, you want to be able to enjoy it,” said Dundon, so they worked on a design for a kitchen that was spacious and allowed for comfort. The GE café appliances they opted for added a contemporary touch to the space.

The kitchen island makes a good gathering spot, so they maximized it to include more seating, and chose a warmer color scheme by opting for white quartzite countertops with a stained wood for the cabinetry.

Dundon and White agree the outdoor area is their favorite because it is perfect for winding down and finding calm moments. The second-floor balconies provide ideal spots for relaxing on their rocking chairs while viewing the water, but the first floor’s screened-in porch is the best place to lounge and read on the sofas or sit at the large table and enjoy a meal, free of bugs. When it comes to the ideal vacation homestead, Dundon and White have certainly struck gold, and having the ability to escape and spend time with their loved ones in the Coastal Bend is made easy with their dream home away from home.

Everything's Coming Up Roses

A DEEP DIVE INTO ROSE VARIETIES AND HOW TO GROW THEM IN YOUR COASTAL BEND GARDEN BY: JUSTIN BUTTS

Roses are excellent flowers for the Coastal Bend, as they’re hardy perennials that can survive the worst of our summers and our coldest winters.

Best of all, roses in our area bloom throughout the year.

There are many types of rose plants—they can grow as a small bush, a gorgeous hedge, a rambling ground cover, a towering climber, in containers, in miniature versions and even as a small tree. There is a rose to fit virtually any landscaping need, but there is an important distinction to consider when selecting your new plants: antique roses versus hybrid roses.

Antiques, also known as “historic” or “old roses,” have been handed down for many generations. Antiques suitable for the Coastal Bend are generally hardier than hybrids, more drought- and heat-tolerant and less sensitive to pests and diseases. Antiques flower prolifically with a massive show of blooms. Most notably, antiques offer that powerful rose aroma, compared to hybrids which have minimal scent.

Hybrid roses include all varieties developed after the famous La France rose in 1867, the first rose hybrid. There are thousands of varieties on the market, available in a limitless array of colors, sizes and shapes. They offer a smaller number of nearly perfect flowers throughout the season rather than a big show of blooms, and have longer, straighter stems, making them ideal for cut flowers.

Check with a knowledgeable local nursery employee for the best rose type and variety for your needs. If you want to take your rose game to the next level, visit the South Texas Botanical Garden to view its lovely rose collection.

GROWING UP

Spacing, 1’ to 8’. Height, 1’ to 12’. Spacing varies by variety. Plant in February in full sun in extremely well-drained soil. Add copious compost to soil when planting, with several cups crushed oyster shells for calcium. Fertilize with pastured poultry manure when planting, then again with several cups around base after first blooms. Roses require lots of water; once per week in cool weather and twice per week in summer. Compost with native leaf mulch.

PROFILING

Take cut flowers as desired throughout the year. Prune in February. For most roses, minimal pruning is required— simply trim the dead parts of the stems and any branches that cross. Prune hybrids more heavily, up to one-third of the plant, to stimulate new growth. For climbing roses, do not prune for several years, then only to train along trellis. Rose plants can live up to 30 years if treated well.

LOCAL RECS

Roses are a favorite for so many due to their long-lasting showing and simplicity. They are a perfect fit for any sentiment when ordering through your local florist. However, for the do-it-yourselfers, they can be a quick and easy arrangement. I would suggest using 12-14" single stem roses for a small 4-5" vase. Cut the roses about 2" taller than the vase before inserting. Tip: to keep roses fresh for days, snip the ends at an angle and change out the water daily.

The first hybrid rose, named “La France” by nurseryman Jean-Baptiste Guillot, appeared in 1867. All modern hybrid roses come from this legendary plant. However, La France was a complete accident. Some random seeds had fallen into the soil and sprouted this new hybrid. Guillot knew he had something special and presented La France to the world. Since 1867, thousands of pages have been written by rose experts trying to determine the parents of La France.

– Tyra Craig, Owner of Golden Petal Florist @goldenpetalcc

The House of Glam

CURATING TEXTILES AND DÉCOR INTO ONE SPACE—EFFORTLESSLY BY:

omething old, something new, something borrowed and something blue” (or hued!) is a saying that shouldn’t just be reserved for bridal traditions.

HAPPY ORGANIZING

Something New - When selecting fabric or textiles, try to find a way to repeat the color and/or the fabric elsewhere in the room. Using the same fabric on a pillow and drapery panels, or repeating the same color in a pillow and rug, helps anchor that selection to your space.

Something Old - Head to Antique Row or a local thrift store to find a little addition for your space that adds a bit of je ne sais quoi and panache, and complements your textiles. This could be a piece of art, a furniture piece, lighting or a decorative objet to display.

Something Borrowed - Having a curated home tends to mean mixing and matching styles. Borrow from different décor styles to create your own. Add in a bust for a nod to French chic, use vintage books for a farmhouse vibe or layer in some mid-century inspired lighting to bring it together.

Something Hued - Don’t be afraid of color! Jewel tones are versatile and look luxe and rich in any room. Use them in low-commitment ways such as throw pillows, drapery, art or rugs that can easily be changed without needing to paint the room. Not a huge color lover? Then use metallics to add in some shades—you can’t go wrong with gorgeous, aged brass.

q get the look

MONICA BENAVIDEZ PHOTOS

BY:

LILLIAN REITZ

Applying those principles can transform your home decorating from safe or predictable to that “effortlessly curated over time” look. One of the main pain points people seem to have about decorating a room is selecting the textiles. Rugs, drapery and pillow covers are opportunities to inject colors, patterns and textures into a room to make it come alive and reflect your home’s soul.

Croquet& Rosé

BY: JO ANNE HOWELL PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Ruling Décor.

Festivities were planned around a game of croquet. With the activity being one of Carly’s favorites, a friendly, yet competitive tone was set. By creating custom signage with a panel of wood and calligraphy markers, guests were

parting words

Carly’s 30th birthday was filled with competitive games of croquet and delicious rosé! Friends and loved ones gathered for an outdoor affair. In lieu of gifts, guests were asked to make a donation to the Keep Aransas County Beautiful organization. I love suggesting this idea to clients when planning a party, as it’s a wonderful way to give back. By creating a QR code linked to an organization’s donation page, you can easily encourage guests to give while enjoying the celebration.

Light and Bright. Crisp white linens, striped umbrellas, bright florals and textures of wood and wicker came together to complete the theme. With a gorgeous backyard as the venue, each décor element aided in creating the upscaled springtime celebration. Light finger foods and creative cocktails helped set the mood for a perfect day of fun in the sun.

On View

February 4 — May 8, 2022

Exhibition organized to celebrate 50 years of AMST in the Singer Building, which regularly houses work by Dorothy Hood, a pioneering Texas abstractionist. This exhibition includes works by Hood and other women artists who examine the world through abstraction.

Melinda Laszczynski, Girl Chorus, 2019, acrylic, iridescent pigments, spray paint, crushed glass, ink, glitter, mica ﬂake, vinyl ﬁlms, on panel, 12” x 9”

by LILLIAN REITZ

Local boutique nursery provides unique plants and knowledge with a friendly smile

photography

Cultural Inclusion

BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN THE COASTAL BEND

BY: KIRBY CONDA

PHOTO BY: DOC MCGREGOR, CORPUS CHRISTI MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

Each year when February rolls around, we make a point to press pause on the daily grind and celebrate the Black Americans who have gone down in history as change-makers within their communities across the nation. The challenge we face each year is that there never seems to be enough time to truly honor the civil rights leaders during this short month—although that shouldn’t hinder the effort to do them justice.

There is so much rich history right here in the Coastal Bend that has laid the foundation for the continued legacy of influential civil rights work. In a medium-sized city like ours, sometimes the strides made in improving our communities don’t get their fair share of recognition on the national level. However, local attorney Matt Manning, Partner at Webb, Cason & Manning, P.C., has set his sights on criminal justice reform— and the nation is taking notice. Manning is confident that though he is making progress in the legal system today, it would not have been possible without the Black American leaders who came before him.

“I’m just trying to continue the legacy that I’ve been born from,” said Manning. “Black people and our history are indispensable … to the history of our nation and the world.” Manning explained that there is something applicable to and inspirational

for people of all backgrounds in Black history, and in the Coastal Bend, the younger generation of community leaders are getting involved in organizations like the NAACP and supporting movements like Black Lives Matter.

In addition to honoring these important civil causes, February is also a time for cultural events and programming through Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi, as well as independent organizations like the Corpus Christi Chapter of the Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education. The university’s programming includes panel discussions, culturally inspired food menus, film screenings, keynote speakers and more.

During this time of reflection and appreciation, we should also remember major events like the desegregation of Del Mar College in 1952, a few years before the landmark ruling of Brown v. Board of Education; or many decades before, the opening of the Public Free School for Colored in 1877, where founder Solomon Melvin Coles served as a teacher and principal, and would later inspire the new name for the school in 1925 in recognition of his efforts to improve education for African Americans within the city; or Bobby Smith, a football player for Miller High School, who in 1959 became the first Black football player in all of Texas football history to be named to the Texas Sports Writers Association all-state first team.

It is moments in history like these, alongside so many more, that have shaped the landscape for cultural inclusion in the Corpus Christi community.

April 1937 - “Solomon Coles High School.” Solomon M. Coles High School was first established as the Public Free School for Colored in 1878, by its founder and first principal, Solomon Melvin Coles.

Planted in Passion

LOCAL BOUTIQUE NURSERY PROVIDES UNIQUE PLANTS AND KNOWLEDGE WITH A FRIENDLY SMILE

BY: MONIQUE DENNIS PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Owning house plants can be beneficial for our physical and psychological health. According to local nursery owner Tina Turman, “The first thing plants do best is make us happy!”

Turman is originally from Houston, which is where she initially decided to make the change from her long-time career in property management to “plant” management. From Houston, Turman moved to Austin, where she took the time to find herself and focus on her love for plants. Once honing in on this true passion of hers, Turman made the brave move to open her first company—traveling the city taking care of plants in various offices, commercial buildings and retail stores.

Upon recently relocating to the Coastal Bend area to be closer to her significant other, Turman dabbled in doing insurance work, before ultimately deciding the insurance life was not for her. Once again Turman turned to her love of botany, and began working on a business plan to open her very own nursery here in Corpus Christi. Planted is a boutiquestyle nursery now open in The Village shopping center.

With Planted, Turman wanted to bring in unique and exotic plants people of the Coastal Bend don’t typically see all the time, such as Calathea Orbifolia and Calathea/ Pinstripe. She’s also set on creating a safe place for plants and plant shoppers—no matter their skill level. Turman doesn’t want to just sell you a plant, but eagerly looks forward to providing you with the information and tools needed to become a successful plant “parent.”

One of Turman’s personal favorite plants is the philodendron, due to its beautiful leafy foliage. Another top pick is the Scindapsus for its silver trailing foliage. Both have easy going plant care needs.

Turman prides herself on inspecting all the plants being sold from her nursery to ensure she never sells a “bad” plant. Her hopes are that her customers feel great about making purchases, because she understands that plants are not always cheap and can sometimes be an intimidating commitment.

This year, Turman has plans to add Plant 101 workshops, where she will share her wealth of knowledge, such as the parts of a plant and how to care for it properly. She is also adding workshops for the nursery to partner with other local businesses that will allow the public to purchase spots for “sip and plant” activities. These workshops are great for a date night, girl’s night or even team building, and will include activities such as building terrariums or making succulent arrangements while sipping wine.

Turman is excited to continue bringing new projects and ideas to Planted. As with everything else she does, the intention and passion she puts toward the plants within her nursery and each customer walking through the doors, Turman is offering a unique nursery experience to all.

Move in. And feel right at home. Leave it to Weichert® to guide you

30TH ANNUAL FIESTA

DE LOS NIÑOS

FEBRUARY 4

With 100% of proceeds supporting the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit and Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Driscoll Children’s Hospital, this annual fundraising event will feature live entertainment from John Michael Montgomery and more. 1901 N SHORELINE BLVD.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH AT TAMU-CC

FEBRUARY 1-28

Join TAMU-CC for a monthlong series of events in celebration of Black History Month. Programming includes speaking series, performances, food-related events and so much more. Visit the university’s website at tamucc.edu for more details. 6300 OCEAN DR.

FEBRUARY 2022

Calendar Events

AGAPE RANCH LEAVE A LEGACY 5K/10K

FEBRUARY 12

Leave a Legacy 5K & 10K allows Agape Ranch to raise awareness and funds for foster, adoption ready, aged-out and vulnerable children, youth and families in the Coastal Bend. The run consists of two routes for all running levels.

4536 COUNTY RD. 56

2022 CORPUS CHRISTI HEART BALL

FEBRUARY 12

Join the American Heart Association’s local chapter for this fundraising event. The Heart Ball campaign is beneficial in driving change, funding science and improving heart health in our communities. 402 HARBOR DR.

LOVE STINKS

FEBRUARY 14

Join the Executive Surf Club for their annual antiValentine’s Day event! Love Stinks features live music, a sharing of infamous love stories, drinks and more. Visit Surf Club’s Facebook page for more information.

306 N CHAPARRAL ST.

CORPUS CHRISTI’S AMERICAN ADVERTISING AWARDS

FEBRUARY 25

Conducted annually by the American Advertising Federation, the local Ad Club phase is the first of a threetier, national competition. Celebrate creatives in our community by attending the award ceremony at the Bay Jewel. 624 N. MESQUITE ST.

OUR LADY OF THE TORTILLA PRODUCTION

FEBRUARY 4-27

Join Aurora Arts Theatre for its 2022 production opener, Our Lady of the Tortilla, by Luis Santeiro. The story revolves around the endurance of family love and has a 1 hour and 40 minute run time. 5635 EVERHART RD.

BAREFOOT MARDI GRAS PARADE 2022

FEBRUARY 26

Join locals for a colorful and unique beach parade! The Barefoot Mardi Gras Parade is a beloved Coastal Bend tradition and everyone is invited to participate in the fun. The parade is free and open to all ages.

15820 PARK ROAD 22

The Patrons of the Order of de Pineda Holiday Dinner

1. Debi Welch - President of The Patrons of the Order of de Pineda

Elizabeth James - President of the Order of de Pineda Ann Jones - Holiday Dinner Chairman

2. Ward & Sandy McCampbell and Leigh & Gary Gray

3. Philip & Jenny Skrobarczyk and Dianna & Scott Sherman

4. Michael & Debbie Gilmore and Stephanie & Joe Christina

5. Dana & Michael Ostos

ReTooled breathes life into the unexpected subject of tools by profiling 28 visionary artists from the Hechinger Collection. In the 1980’s, John Hechinger’s booming chain of hardware stores led him to purchase a new company headquarters and collected art to beautify the offices. Hechinger’s acquisition of a tool-inspired collection of diverse 20th century art that was accessible and engaging to all audiences. This exhibition furthers his mission by showcasing the diverse range of ideas, materials, forms, and creativity that encompass modern art. ReTooled: Highlights from the Hechinger Collection was organized by International Arts & Artists, Washington, DC. Gift of John and June Hechinger.

elizabeth's branding

IMAGE LEFT: Stephen Hansen, Man on a Limb (detail), 1985, papier-mâché, 72 in. x 48 in. x 24 in.

IMAGE RIGHT: Arman, Blue, Red, Brown (detail), 1988, mixed media,

THE CRAFT OF BOARRI

Boarri Craft Butchery focuses on customerseducating and connecting them to local farmers

photography by TYLER SCHULTZ

You Had Me at Chocolate

THREE PERFECT RECIPES FOR CHOCOLATE LOVERS

BY: KAYLA BUTTS, MS, RDN, LDN

PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Scrambling to find the perfect gift for your Valentine?

Follow a popular lead and celebrate with chocolate! Children hand out chocolate kisses at school; colleagues share boxes filled with assorted chocolates; partners bring home chocolate-covered cherries for their significant others. It’s the undisputed treat of Valentine’s Day.

In fact, Americans will spend about $695 million buying 58 million pounds of chocolate candies in the days preceding Feb. 14. So, the question asks itself: How did chocolate become synonymous with Valentine’s Day?

The treat’s romantic reputation started over three centuries ago. Historians long believed chocolate was first cultivated by the Mayans of South America, but more recent archeological evidence traces its origins to the Olmecs of southern Mexico. Traces of chocolate found in Olmec pottery date back to 1500 BC.

The Mayan and Aztec cultures ground cacao beans and mixed them into a thickened drink to be shared by the bride and groom at wedding celebrations. Chocolate became so lauded for its aphrodisiac properties that Montezuma II consumed gallons of cacao to maintain his libido. To Montezuma’s credit, chocolate does contain phenylethylamine and tryptophan, two amino acids associated with love and desire. Unfortunately, chocolate is not considered a significant source of either stimulant.

Chocolate solidified its reign in the romance department in 1831. The English candy company Cadbury released a red, heart-shaped box around St. Valentine’s Day. Consumers loved the iconic boxes, using them to store letters, keepsakes and trinkets long after their confections were consumed. Candy manufacturers everywhere adopted the idea and heart-shaped boxes have become a symbol of Valentine’s Day.

Chocolate lovers need not limit themselves to candy; decadent chocolate desserts top the list of after-dinner sweets on Valentine’s Day. No matter how you choose to celebrate, everyone can agree, Valentine’s is sweeter with a little chocolate.

RECIPE

Sacher-Torte

Makes one 9-inch cake

PREP TIME: 25 minutes

COOK TIME: 45-50 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

CAKE:

1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature

1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar

1/2 cup castor sugar

8 large eggs, separated, room temperature

1 vanilla bean pod

6 oz bittersweet chocolate, melted

1 cup cake flour

1/4 teaspoon salt

ASSEMBLY:

1 1/2 cups apricot preserves

1/4 cup amaretto liqueur

8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped 1/2 cup unsalted butter

DIRECTIONS:

CAKE: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line the bottom of a 9-inch cake pan with parchment paper. Sift together the flour and salt and set aside.

Cream the butter and confectioner’s sugar until pale and aerated, about 1-2 minutes. Add the egg yolks and vanilla bean. Gradually stir in the chocolate. Mix in the sifted dry ingredients, until just combined.

Whip the egg whites to soft peak. Slowly add the remaining sugar and whip to full peak. Fold the egg whites into the batter in thirds, mixing just until there are no streaks of egg white visible.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Level out the top of the cake with a spatula and bake until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, about 45-50 minutes.

Cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then turn the cake out onto a cooling rack. Let sit until cooled. Using a serrated knife, cut the cake horizontally into two layers. Prick the tops of the cakes with a fork.

ASSEMBLY: In a small saucepan, stir the amaretto liqueur into the apricot preserves. Cook over medium heat until just beginning to bubble.

Place the bottom layer of cake onto your serving plate. Spread 1/3 of the apricot mixture onto the bottom layer and place the top layer onto the cake.

Strain the remaining apricot-amaretto mixture to remove any large pieces of apricot and use the strained liquid to ice the top and sides of the cake.

Microwave the chocolate with the butter for 30 seconds, or until both are melted and smooth when stirred. Pour chocolate over the cake, using a small spatula to fill in any gaps. Allow the glaze to set for about 30 minutes prior to serving.

This chocolate cake with apricot filling was created by Franz Sacher for an Austrian prince in 1832. The original recipe has been kept a secret for almost three centuries. Poking small holes in the cake allows the characteristic apricot preserves to soak into the sponge, creating a cake as moist as it is decadent.

RECIPE

Molten Chocolate Cake

Makes four 6oz cakes

PREP TIME: 7 minutes

COOK TIME: 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup unsalted butter

6 ounces bittersweet chocolate

2 eggs

2 egg yolks

1/4 cup castor sugar

1/8 tsp salt

1/2 tsp vanilla

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 450°F. Place four 6-ounce ramekins on a baking sheet and spray them with non-stick baking spray (alternately, you can grease ramekins with a thin layer of butter and a dusting of all-purpose flour).

Melt the butter with the chocolate by microwaving for 30-second intervals. Stir the mixture between sessions in the microwave until smooth. In a medium bowl or standing mixer, beat the eggs with the egg yolks, sugar and salt at high speed until thickened and pale.

Quickly fold the melted chocolate and flour into the egg mixture. Spoon batter into the prepared ramekins and bake for 10 minutes, or until the sides of the cakes are firm but the centers are soft.

Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for 1 minute, then cover each with an inverted dessert plate. Carefully turn each one over, let stand for 10 seconds and then unmold. Serve immediately, dusted with confectioner’s sugar or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Chocolate Hazelnut Trifle

Makes 1 large trifle

PREP TIME: 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

9-inch pan of chocolate brownies, store-bought or prepared

Chocolate hazelnut mousse

1 cup whipping cream, chilled 1 cup chocolate hazelnut spread

Mascarpone cream

8 oz mascarpone, at room temperature

2 tbsp hazelnut liqueur

1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk

1 tsp vanilla

1 1/2 cup whipping cream, chilled

DIRECTIONS:

Brownies: Prepare brownies as directed on box and let cool. Cut into 1-inch cubes.

Chocolate hazelnut mousse: In a medium bowl or the bowl of your standing mixer, whip cream on high speed until medium stiff peaks form. Gently fold in chocolate hazelnut spread until well incorporated.

Mascarpone cream: In a medium bowl or the bowl of your standing mixer, whip cream on high speed until medium stiff peaks form. Transfer whipped cream to a separate bowl. Combine remaining ingredients in a large bowl (or your standing mixer) and beat until creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture ½ cup at a time until incorporated.

RECIPE

The Beach Time Remedy

THE PRESCRIPTION FOR A SMOOTH ISLAND COCKTAIL

BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ PHOTO BY: TYLER SCHULTZ

Amid the long span of Texas beaches lining the Port Aransas coast, every now and then you’ll find the perfect little tiki bar with a laid-back vibe, shaking up cocktails. REDS' patio bar is tucked in Palmilla Beach Resort, just a frisbee’s throw from the beach, and filled with the same salty breeze, sans the sand.

For vibe-setting beach precursors, the bartenders at REDS offer a taste of the tropics in cocktail glasses all season long, and they’ve got an ice-cold remedy to beat the heat: The Lime in the Coconut is what Red’s bartenders prescribe for your fun in the Port A sun. “It’s the flavors of being on the island and being on vacation,” said Calais St. Pierre as she prepared the cocktail. “It's a fresh, more tart drink.”

In making this drink, the bartender begins with Pearl Coconut Vodka, a smooth spirit to set the tone. After adding some fresh-squeezed lime juice, it is hard-shaken to bring the best out of the citrus and aerate the combination, and then poured into a Collins glass and filled with Coconut La Croix. The simplicity of this cocktail keeps it light and refreshing, and keeps the sipper out of a harmful hangover’s way.

The bubbly clear cocktail has a lovely coconut gradient at the bottom, and is garnished with a lime slice. The end result is a hydrating elixir with a tasty bitterness, with the potential to be topped with a pomegranate liqueur for a hint of complexity.

“We try to stay on the light, refreshing side with our drinks; keep it on a beachy vibe. We get a little bit of sweet, a little bit of light—a variation of island cocktails,” said longtime bartender Casey Hughes.

“A lot of our patrons out here are on island time, they’re not ever in a hurry. They just want to relax and have a conversation, and us being next to the beach, it’s really easy to just talk to people out here,” says REDS owner, Reanna. “We try and keep beach themed flavors, nice colors and something easy to drink.”

So, as the South Texas winter begins to ease into springtime, drop into Port Aransas’ best-kept secret in the form of this hidden happy hour oasis for a sip and some sunshine.

CONTACT: 361.749.4653 | @REDSatPalmillaBeach

While enjoying a cocktail at the patio bar, you can also order a small bite through REDS' on-site food truck.

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The Dining Guide

BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH

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 $

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, 361-3340241 $

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 $

Hester's Cafe

This legendary local cafe and coffee bar serves up inventive breakfast and lunch dishes with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients. Don't forget to grab some baked goods before you leave. 3812 S Alameda St, 361-855-1892 $

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 $

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, 361-8863510 $$

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 $

The Post at Lamar Park

Enjoy this popular gastro-pub with delicious dishes that are meant to be shared, alongside a beer or cocktail of course! 411 Doddridge St #102, 361-452-0907 $$

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 $

LUNCH

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, 361-882885 $$

Cruzy's

Tacos take on a whole new meaning at a 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 $

Elizabeth's

Tucked away overlooking the harbor, guests can escape to an all-but-mundane mix of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, cocktails, and environment within the walls of the iconic Art Museum of South Texas. 1902 N Shoreline Blvd $$

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 Chaparral St, 361-884-7873 $

Ginger Cafe

The menu at Ginger Cafe takes you all around the world, to India, Greece, 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 $$

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 $$

The Lookout

Located on the sunlit shores of the Laguna Madre, The Lookout at Bluff’s Landing is real food made with quality local ingredients. Enjoy a selection of uniquely crafted meals, curated cocktails, and of course those beautiful water views. 4242 Laguna Shores Rd, 361-252-9861 $$

Ninja Ramen & Thai

Japanese ramen featuring the most delicious broth is just one aspect of Ninja Ramen & Thai’s delicious cuisine. This familyowned-and-operated spot features a great menu and excellent service. 2033 Airline Rd #E5, 361452-2622 $

Padre Island Burger Co.

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

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, 361-3566715 $

Surfside Sandwich Shoppe

Dine inside or outside on the patio, and enjoy their large assortment of sandwiches and sides or just have a nice cold post-beach beverage. Don’t forget the homemade desserts! 15113 S Padre Island Dr, 361-949-0505 $

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, 361991-1115 $

DINNER

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 $$

Black Marlin Bar & Grill

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

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 $$

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 $$

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 $$$

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 $$

Lisabella’s Bistro

Casual coastal elegance with a family-friendly setting. The menu boasts a remarkable gourmet twist to your favorite fare, and a full bar that goes beyond just ordinary. 5009 Hwy 361, 361-749-4222 $$$

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 $$$

Roosevelt’s

Gourmet dining at its finest in a beautiful Louisiana style home that sets the perfect tone for a taste of luxury. 200 E Cotter Ave, 361-7491540 $$$

Venetian Hot Plate

This italian hot spot serves up quality cuisine and a quaint, yet energetic atmosphere, brings a real touch of Italy. 232 Beach St, 361-749-7617 $$

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 $$$

Water Street Oyster Bar

Long-standing and beloved Corpus Christi landmark serving up oysters, sushi rolls and fresh Gulf seafood in a historic, brick building in the heart of downtown. 309 N Water St, 361-881-9448 $$

Yola Cocina Mexicana

Taking it 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 $$

The Craft of Boarri

BOARRI CRAFT BUTCHERY FOCUSES ON EDUCATING CUSTOMERS AND CONNECTING THEM TO LOCAL FARMERS

BY: JESSIE CHROBOCINSKI PHOTOS BY: TYLER SCHULTZ

From the beginning, Nathan Kolenovsky grew up harvesting meats with his family. Throughout his life, his ability to take farm-raised animals and fabricate them into different parts and pieces has resulted in both enjoyment and quality cuts of protein. After more than 20 years of a successful career, Kolenovsky shifted gears and opened a neighborhood meat market.

Boarri Craft Butchery brings a local culinary shopping experience to the central corridor of Corpus Christi by connecting with area farmers to deliver responsibly sourced meat and convey knowledge to customers in the Coastal Bend. From fresh smoked sausages to charcuterie-style dried meats, all of Boarri's products are regionally and locally sourced.

"We maintain everything that we buy or resell from the state of Texas. If we can get stuff from someone making it in Corpus Christi and [we’re] allowed to resell it, we certainly will,” said Kolenovsky. “We support those businesses in the food industry and want to provide them an outlet to resell their products at the shop.”

Boarri doesn't stop at unique cuts; the shop also embraces community by bringing people together and sharing experiences for better eating and wholesome living.

Kolenovsky said, "I think the coolest part about what we've been doing is [all of] the new people we've made friends with that share what they do with our product, in terms of turning it into wonderful meals for their family. That's been an amazing

Boarri’s building dates back to the 1920s, and it served as various local businesses including the second H-E-B in Corpus Christi (Piggly Wiggly), Superior Ice Cream and The Carnation Company.

part of the journey, and really what we set out to do when building this kind of neighborhood market. It's more of an education that we are all learning together and having a conversation, which I love about it."

Building meaningful relationships, from farmers to customers, is at the core of Boarri. It’s intended as a model that better connects people with the food they eat.

"There's a lot of great local businesses and local artists. Corpus has always had this,” Kolenovsky continued. “As we start to build some synergies among all of us in the city, I think that's

CONTACT:

817 S. Staples St | 361.299.0149 | @boarricraft

where we can set ourselves apart. There's a lot of opportunities here in our ability to support one another—and our smaller business community, whether we're in the same industry or not, to me, that's truly important.”

While larger grocery chains offer valuepriced cuts, Boarri inspires learning by sharing experiences with a broader audience around what others do with its unique cuts. Which can turn into a wonderful meal, be explored and prompt conversations with friends and family while providing something unique at the dinner table.

The Boarri team loves to see how you’re making a meal with their products. Post a photo on social media of your creations and tag them!

Water Views All Around

SEASIDE HOTEL AND PAVILION ATTRACTED TOURISTS FOR DECADES BY: JILLIAN BECQUET PHOTO COURTESY OF: CORPUS CHRISTI PUBLIC LIBRARIES, LA RETAMA SPECIAL COLLECTIONS & ARCHIVES

Corpus Christi has long attracted tourists seeking waterfront relaxation. In the early 1900s, they had their pick of resort hotels to take in the views, but no hotel got them closer to the water than the Seaside Hotel and Pavilion. The hotel was known for its shady groves of salt cedar overlooking Corpus Christi Bay, and the Pavilion for its dance hall and saloon.

If you stand on Taylor Street at the location of the CallerTimes and look toward the bay, to where One Shoreline Plaza stands, the Seaside Hotel was at the waterfront on Water Street and the Pavilion was in the distance. It was located on the 1,000-foot-long Taylor Street fishing pier, which was a destination in its own right. The Seaside Hotel

was previously the Dix House, a hotel run by John Dix. It stood through the Civil War and was the site of a school for girls run by Mary Eliza Hayes Dix.

Unfortunately, the Seaside Hotel and Pavilion were casualties of the 1919 hurricane. The local tourism industry felt their loss so strongly that the Chamber of Commerce offered $10,000 to any person to build a new resort in the area. As a result, downtown gained the Princess Louise hotel, which stands at Mann and Water. It, too, offered access to the water with its own pier before the seawall added two blocks of land in front of it. With the loss of a Corpus Christi icon, we gained another—but nothing could beat being surrounded by water views.

Seaside Pavilion, early 1900s