June 2014

JUNE 2014, ISSUE 3

Home

Health

Protect your patio Furniture

Healthy ways to pass the day

P.40

P.14

Fashion

Sweet New Looks for Summer

P.36

COMING HOME TO

CREAGER COUNTRY STORIES FROM A LOCAL FISHING LEGEND COME SAIL AWAY WITH CCMORF MAKING A RACQUET

thebendmag.com

2

thebendmag.com

3

FEATURED CONTENT Roger Creager Comes Home in Style P.20

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas ART DIRECTOR: Julio Studios DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Kaley Regas MANAGING EDITOR: Carol Pate PHOTOGRAPHY: Rachel Durrent DLG Photography Tina Alexandra Jason Page Photography CONTRIBUTORS: Sara Yonker Krystal Villarreal Cissy Tabor Fares Sabawi Justin Butts Kayla Butts OFFICE: 5262 S. Staples. St. Ste.300 Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Jaws of Loveday P.24

PHONE: 361.792.3606 FAX: 361.232.4976 E-MAIL: admin@thebendmag.com SUBMISSIONS: editor@thebendmag.com

Michael D Morgan, Agent

ADVERTISING: info@thebendmag.com

5515-B Saratoga Blvd South Staples @ Saratoga Blvd Corpus Christi, TX 78413-2944 Bus (361) 992-3636 Fax (361) 992-8739 Serving Southside CC and Flour Bluff

Copyright Š 2014 Gemstone Media, LLC. The Bend: Coastal Life Magazine is published by Gemstone Media, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without express written consent. Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice, but is rather considered informative Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.

www.michaelmorganinsurance.com

thebendmag.com

4

YOU ARE THE TRUE NORTH

R

Mayor Nelda Martinez Corpus Christi

“We have a responsibility to foster our sense of community and invest not only in land and buildings but also our people.”

ecently, when I was speaking to a group of children touring City Hall, I was asked “What is your favorite part of being Mayor?” The first and most obvious answer for me is the people. I interact with people from all walks of life and I continually see the spirit of community that makes the coastal bend such a unique and wonderful place.

The community spirit and dedication I have witnessed reaches beyond neighborhoods and beyond economics – it is our foundation. It is the foundation of why neighbors help each other. It is the foundation of why people invest in our community and it is the foundation of our future.

In the coming years, we will see unprecedented growth and expansion of our job base and with it new residents will become a part of the coastal bend. They will witness first hand why people are the greatest asset of our area.

With our growth, it is my sincere hope that we never lose sight of our uniqueness and build upon the vision set before us by our leaders. Whether it was Mayor Mary Rhodes or the other leaders who came before us, we have a responsibility to foster our sense of community and invest not only in land and buildings but also our people.

My vision is a thriving city with a strong foundation of human capital toward growing our global economy.

We have invaluable assets with our deep water port, existing businesses, our military installations and institutions of higher learning. However, our most treasured asset is you. Our citizens are the fundamental bedrock of our city’s successful future. You are the true North on our compass that makes the coastal bend a great place to live, work and raise our families.

thebendmag.com

5

Events || Calendar

Calendar WATER STREET MARKET SUMMER FEST 2014

June 6th-8th Water Street Market, CC

There is so much to celebrate this summer! Come down to the beautiful downtown Water Street Market for this year’s Summer Fest! Highlights of the festival will be South Texas Walk of Fame’s 10 Year Anniversary, six new Walk of Fame inductees, Water Street Oyster Bar’s 30 Year Anniversary, the “Lenses of Aloha” Exhibit opening at the Texas Surf Museum and more!

THE 66TH ANNUAL SHRIMPOREE

June 13th, 14th & 15th City of Aransas Pass Community Park

The Annual Shrimporee is back with shrimp eating contests, cooking lessons, a parade, carnival and more! Bring the whole family out to Aransas Pass for a fun filled day and celebrate one of the many reasons living in The Coastal Bend is so great – SHRIMP! Military personnel (active or retired) will receive free admission!

BEND AND SNAPTASTIC

June 26th, 6:30pm Galvan House, Heritage Park, CC www.harborplayhouse.com

Harbor Playhouse is turning Galvan House into the Delta Nu Sorority House as they host a sorority party to serve as a kickoff for the Playhouse’s production of Legally Blonde, premiering July 11. Enjoy a Bend and Snap Fashion Show by Julian Gold, a silent auction, hors d’oeuvres and drinks for a night full of entertainment. Cost is $50.

WORLD OCEAN’S DAY CELEBRATION

June 14th, 9am-3pm University of Texas Marine Science Institute Visitor Port Aransas www.worldoceansday.org Bring the kids out to Port Aransas for a day of learning and fun!

Events include boat trips, hands-on activities, crafts and guest speakers. This entire event is free and is fun for families of all ages!

thebendmag.com

6

EDUCATION BUGS TO BALLISTICS: 2014 SUMMER SCIENCE CAMP

5-8 Yrs & 9-12 Yrs June 9 - Aug. 22, 9 am - 4pm, M- F CC Museum of Science and History (361) 826-4667 43RD ANNUAL DEL MAR COLLEGE VIKING SUMMER BAND CAMP

9th-12th grade students June 30th-July 3rd Fine Arts Center Music Hall Del Mar College East (361) 698-1352 ACTING FOR BEGINNERS

Acting classes for ages 5 and up.

Every Saturday Aurora Arts Theatre (213) 926-9066 ACTING FOR THE CAMERA

Master TV and film scripts!

Every Wednesday Aurora Arts Theatre (213) 926-9066

DEL MAR COLLEGE’S PERMANENT COLLECTION EXHIBIT

June 9th- August 15th, 9am4pm M-TH, 9am-12pm F Fine Arts Center Del Mar College East

MUSIC/ ENTERTAINMENT “SPAMALOT”

Running June 1st-29th Friday and Saturday, 7:30pm Sunday 2pm Harbor Playhouse

WOODY’S SPORTS CENTER LADIES POWDER PUFF TOURNAMENT

June 6th, 5:30-7:30pm Port Aransas Art Center THIRD COAST NATIONAL EXHIBITION

June 6th, 5:30-7:30pm KSpace Contemporary Starr St., CC

Wild Caught

June 28th 6am-6pm Contact Todd Purcell 512750-0700

DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET

PORT ARANSAS’ FIRST FRIDAY ART RECEPTION

Riviera Reds Seafood Delivers Nationwide!

Straight to your friends and families door.

21ST ANNUAL FISHING BREAK

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3:30-5pm Art Center of Corpus Christi www.artcentercc.org

June 6th 5:30-9:30pm Downtown Corpus Christi

www.ShrimpTX.com or call 866.905.9056

June 21st 6:30am-4:30pm Registration is June 20th, 5-7pm http://www.woodysonline. com/powderpuff.html

LOCAL MARKET DAYS

ART WALK

Order Online

FISHING:

KIDS ART CLASSES KIDS EXPLORING MEDIA AND TEMPURA

ART

Think Shrimp.

Think Fish.

Think of all your landlocked friends who can’t get the best Gulf Coast Seafood at their local supermarket.

5-7pm every Wednesday Yin Yang Fandango and Tango Team Room SOUTHSIDE FARMERS MARKET

9am every Saturday Parking lot of 5800 Everhart, Corpus Christi ROCKPORT MARKET DAY

Food, arts & crafts, specialty products, plants, produce and much more!

June 19th, 9am-4pm Navigation Festival Grounds, Rockport

thebendmag.com

7

Oh, and don’t forget to send seafood to Aunt Mary in Iowa…

Product of USA

Events || Social Hour

SOCIAL HOUR It’s not everyday that you get to look your best, see all of your friends in one place and possibly have too much fun. Did we catch you around the bend?

Photos: DLG Photography

May Release Party & GLOW’s 3rd Anniversary You can’t release a Coastal Bend Dining guide with out enjoying some of the great tastes offered around the Coastal Bend. We hope you enjoyed it!

thebendmag.com

8

thebendmag.com

9

Events || Social Hour

Men Who Cook

The inaugural event benefitting the Ronald McDonald House of Corpus Christi was a great success despite the bad weather. Brave men from around the community dawned their aprons and slaved away in their kitchen for a chance to be crowned the King of Cooks. Guests from around the community sampled each dish and voted for their favorite chef.

thebendmag.com

10

Our mission is to provide medical transportation for critically ill or injured persons requiring medical or trauma facilities within our south Texas service area.

As a non-profit, emergency assistance is provided to all persons regardless of their ability to pay.

www.haloflight.org | 361.265.0509

thebendmag.com

11

Events || Spotlight

ROCKPORT ART FEST HOSTS THOUSANDS OVER JULY 4TH WEEKEND The serene and charming town of Rockport is just a short drive north of Corpus Christi. But the otherwise sleepy coastal community always begins to buzz every summer over the July 4th holiday weekend with thousands of visitors and art seekers.

The 45th Annual Rockport Art Festival – hosted by and benefitting the Rockport Center for the Arts – has been dubbed one of the most prestigious and fun art shows in the southern United States.

During the event, more than 120 exhibiting juried artists from across Texas and around the nation showcase and sell their work on the shores of Aransas Bay. “There’s a little something for everyone’s creative tastes paintings, ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, metal sculptures or furniture. We definitely have it all and it’s affordable. Prices range from $5 to $5,000,” says

Beverly Trifonidis, Executive Director of the Rockport Center for the Arts.

Artists from all over the state and nation submit their work for the festival, and each year a jury panel narrows down the field to just over 120 exhibitors.

famous wood birds of James Morton, the recycled metal sculptures of Mike Gilbert, and so much more!

Trifonidis states that Art Fest is an excellent fit for Rockport, a naturally creative environment. There are several art galleries in town amid numerous shops, restaurants, and bed and breakfast establishments.

“Rockport is a magical place! Everything here inspires everyone - tourists and locals alike”

Some of the best artists in Texas along with Louisiana, Georgia, Florida, New Mexico, Colorado and California will be showing their work at this year’s festival. Award-winning artists include Kay Barnebey’s watercolor paintings, Jim Offeman and Bruce Bitter’s pastels of coastal wildlife and beach scenery, along with hand-tinted photography

by Robin Renee Hix, the

“Rockport is a magical place!

Everything here inspires everyone - tourists and locals alike - to enjoy the unique charm of this Texas Coastal town with a long history of art appreciation,” adds Trifonidis.

More than 200 working artists call Rockport home and

thebendmag.com

12

participate as member artists of the Rockport Center for the Arts, a creative hub of the community for 45 years. The non-profit supports free admission to the Center’s three galleries filled with a calendar full of inspiring exhibitions, the Artist-in-Residence program and the operation of Art Link, a free summer art camp program for Aransas County kids and teens. As a non-profit organization, the Center is dedicated to cultivating art appreciation and providing creative experiences for all ages.

In addition to high-quality artists, the Rockport Art Festival hosts an air-conditioned tent with a variety of food, cool beverages and live music.

In addition, a children’s activity tent and shopping gallery offer youngsters the opportunity to create their own works of art as well as shop in the gallery for treasures priced under $5

Pam Morin 361-808-7400

MENTION THIS AD FOR $50 OFF MOTORIZATION PER WINDOW

Call TODAY for your FREE in-home consultation

Shades, Shutters, Drapery, Screens, and more!

Visit our Design Guide today!

Interiorscapes

Bringing Green Indoors Interior plant leasing and maintenance for businesses and homes in the Coastal Bend

Linking People to Success...

Sterling Personnel

Let us give your indoor space a healthy, fresh look Call today for a customized quote

is the Coastal Bend’s premier staffing firm.

We are hometown folks working to bring the best companies and best employees together.

Let us be your link to success.

361.815.8823

Call Today 361.854.5151

www.greenthingscc.com

w w w. Ste r li n g H i re s . co m thebendmag.com

13

3833 S. Staples, Suite N103 | Corpus Christi, Texas

Health || Fitness

Words: Krystal Villarreal Photos: Rachel Durrent

Christen and Michael Facts:

“It doesn’t feel like I’m working out when I’m in the water”

sunset; it’s really relaxing.”

“Paddle boarding is a full body workout,” adds Michael. “One hour of paddle boarding can burn up to 500 calories!

But with such beautiful scenery surrounding you it’s easy to forget you’re working out.

When I’m kiteboarding, I’m just having fun with good company and not thinking about the fact that I’m actually working out because I’m too busy enjoying myself.”

Paddle Power When it comes to exercising, husband and wife Michael and Christen Ince take advantage of the water surrounding the Coastal Bend.

Both Christen and Michael grew up on a lake in Gonzalez, Texas where they enjoyed water skiing frequently. Every summer they would take a vacation to Corpus Christi where Christen picked up skimboarding. When deciding

- Christen learned to skim-board at the age of 13 and turned Michael on to it

-The couple enjoys taking their dogs, Rowdy and Tiki, paddle boarding with them

- While some people complain about South Texas heat, the Ince’s are looking forward to the summer because it means more beach days

boarding and kiteboarding.

where to move, they said the beach in Corpus Christi definitely played a factor in choosing to relocate to the Coastal Bend. The Ince’s currently live about 200 yards from the beach and enjoy activities like paddle boarding, skim-

“It doesn’t feel like I’m working out when I’m in the water,” said Christen.

“I look down and I see fish and stingrays and then there’s the beautiful

thebendmag.com

14

The Ince’s advise others to take advantage of the water around us and try to replace a gym day with water activities.

“Sometimes people are tired when they come home from work and talk themselves out of going to the gym,” said Christen.“But I never have to talk myself out of going paddle boarding.

“I look down and I see fish and stingrays and then there’s the beautiful sunset; it’s really relaxing.”

The Ince’s enjoy activities like paddle boarding, skim boarding and kiteboarding.

The waves give off a calming effect and you’re working out at the same time.”

Christen and Michael are proud that they have since gotten their whole families involved in paddle boarding and kite boarding. “Everyone can do it! My mom does it and even my 3 and a half year old nephew, Barrett, likes to get on the board.

It’s a great way for the whole family to stay active!”

For Michael and Christen, the beach was a major factor in thier choice to relocate to the Coastal Bend. thebendmag.com

15

Health || Coastal Care

S P EC I A L AD V E R T I S EMENT

3D MAMMOGRAPHY ARRIVES IN COASTAL BEND The Most Exciting Advancement In Breast Cancer In 30 Years Offers Sharper, Clearer 3D Reconstruction and Less Chance for Cancer to Hide

Doctors and scientists agree that early detection is the best defense against breast cancer, dramatically affecting treatment and survival rates. If cancer is found early enough, while it is still small and before it has time to spread, the five-year survival rate is nearly 100 percent.

Until now, the best way to identify breast cancer has been with digital mammography and two-dimensional images.

“The reality is that the breast is a threedimensional object composed of breast tissue, fat, blood vessels, and ducts – all of which can overlap in a single image,” says radiologist Dr. Rebecca Stackhouse.

She adds, “When viewed as a twodimensional flat image, these overlapping tissues can cause confusion and small breast cancers may be missed. Normal overlapping tissue may appear abnormal, leading to unnecessary callbacks or false alarms, which are very stressful for patients.”

Fortunately for Coastal Bend women, the latest and greatest is now available ... three-dimensional mammography.

The revolutionary screening and diagnostic tool, also called tomosynthesis, can be conducted in addition to a traditional 2D digital mammogram. The technology creates a 3D reconstruction of the breast into thin one-millimeter slices.

Stackhouse’s employer, Radiology Associates, is the first and only healthcare organization in the Coastal Bend to offer this latest advancement in breast cancer detection.

Stackhouse is a member of the company’s “Pink Dream Team” who focuses exclusively on women’s imaging. Each year, the group interprets more than 30,000 mammograms.

“3D mammograms are superior to 2D digital ones. This extraordinary technology allows us to look through tissue seeing details inside the breast like never before and there is less chance for cancer to hide behind overlapping tissue,” says Stackhouse.

Three-dimensional mammography allows radiologists to review the reconstruction one thin slice at a time - almost like turning the pages of a book.

Stackhouse states, “3D mammograms are approved for all women who would be undergoing a standard mammogram in the screening or diagnostic settings, but are especially beneficial for younger women and women with dense breasts.”

No additional compression is required during a 3D exam and it only takes a few seconds longer for each view. Similar levels of radiation are used during a 3D mammogram.

thebendmag.com

16

In efforts to reach more women, Radiology Associates recently launched its new mammogram gift card program. Company officials consistently find that scheduling a mammogram can be low priority and inconvenient for most busy women – not to mention scary especially for firsttime patients. Most often, cost marks the biggest obstacle for not getting a mammogram.

“Friends and family can now give the gift of health to the favorite females in their lives,” says Stackhouse.

Adorned with beautiful pink roses, gift cards can be purchased at any of Radiology Associates five locations in varying prices of $50, $89 and $139, depending on the type of mammogram and insurance coverage.

Stackhouse reiterates the benefits of 3D for women of all mammogram ages.

“3D mammograms identify cancer earlier and reduce false alarms or callbacks, so we are encouraging our patients to find the resources and schedule their 3D exam.

They owe it to themselves and their loved ones,” concludes Stackhouse.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: • Xraydocs.com • (361) 887-7000 • Facebook: Radiology Associates, LLP

Play 361: 60 Minutes a Day of Exercise & Fun!

The American Heart Association recommends at least an hour of moderate to vigorous activity everyday for children ages 2 and above (www. heart.org). But it’s difficult to pull children away from technology and neighborhoods are not as safe as they once were. Lucky for us, the Coastal Bend offers a wide variety of opportunities to stay active this summer. Here are a few creative ways to get your children off the couch.

8 Activities for a Healthy, Happy Summer:

1. Sign up for summer camp:

Summer camp is a great place for children to meet friends, learn new things and stay active in a safe and structured environment.

2. Take swimming lessons: Learning to swim is not only a major achievement in a child’s life; it is a necessary survival skill and a great way to stay active.

3. Get ready for next season: If you have children involved in sports during the school year, the summer is a great time to train for next season.

not comfortable with your children riding alone around the neighborhood, taking a family ride is a fun way for the whole family to stay active.

7.

Plan a play date: Make exercise a part of your summer routine by scheduling fun activities with friends. Head to your local park, pool or recreation center.

8.

Go to the beach: This one is a bit obvious, but it’s easy to take for granted the fact that we have multiple beaches to enjoy right in our backyard.

Want to know more?

4. Learn something new: Use that spare time this summer to introduce a new hobby that will keep children active. There are some great skate parks and surf shops around town.

www.ccparkandrec.com

5.

recsports.tamucc.edu

Plant a garden: This is a great way to disguise yard work as a fun summer project.

6.

Family Bike Rides: If you’re

thebendmag.com

17

www.ccmuseum.com www.delmar.edu www.portlandtx.com www.apaquaticcenter.com www.hurricanealleycc.com

Making a Racquet at Al Kruse “Love” on the tennis courts may mean zilch, but at Al Kruse Tennis Center in Corpus Christi, there is a whole lot to love.

Words: Cissy Tabor Photos: Rachel Durrent

T Al Kruse Tennis Center 502 King St., Corpus Christi 10 lighted courts Pro shop, locker rooms USPTA Head Tennis Professional Susan Torrance, B.S., M.S. 361-883-6942

his public facility has seen the likes of John McEnroe and four Hall of Fame Pros, but the best notoriety is local. Susan Torrance, the Facility Manager and Director of Tennis for 23 years, was the 1968 King High School UIL State Singles Champion and # 1 Women’s Varsity at the University of Texas. Susan was ranked #1 TX USTA Singles 18 & Under, Women’s Open Singles Champion, National Clay and Hard Court Singles Champion and ranked #1 Nationally USTA Singles 35 & Over. Susan also competed on the Pro Tour for eight years and was ranked 101 in the world.

Susan has numerous #1s attached to her career but she would rather talk about her mother’s accomplishments. Dr. Shelby Torrance was #1 at the University of Texas in the 1940s, played at the US Open, qualified

for Wimbledon and was inducted into the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame. “Mother taught Kinesiology at Del Mar College for 20 years, coached men and women’s tennis and was instrumental in building the tennis courts and Aquatic Center. There is a plaque on the courts dedicated to her,” Susan says. Upon seeing students, years after her retirement, Dr. Torrance remembered their names. “When I asked her how she did it, she said to me: ‘Susan, they’re people aren’t they?’ She was pretty amazing.

That was the example I had,” Susan recalls, “I try to carry on the things she taught me.”

ting two for one,’” Susan recalls.

She became the assistant under her mother then took over as Director in 1991.

In 1987, when applying for the Director of Tennis at Al Kruse, Dr. Shelby Torrance called on her daughter for help. “I was running all around the world on the Pro Tour when Mom said: ‘Come with me to the interview and they’ll think they are get-

“One of the things I’m most proud of is our Friday program with underprivileged children,” says Susan. Her mother started the program as a way to get neighborhood kids to play tennis. The children were trying to take balls along the fence line

thebendmag.com

18

Al Kruse Tennis Center provides instruction for all ages, weekly leagues for men and women and a junior program.

Susan’s teaching staff boasts four pros. Susan was voted Corpus Christi Tennis Pro of the Year in 2012. For fifteen years, Pro Cleveland Gilcrease has run the youth summer program and the Friday Junior Development Program which offers free instruction for kids 5-18. “He’s the pied piper of tennis,” states Susan.

so she told them they could get free balls inside the tennis shop.

Once inside, she handed out free balls and had them sign their name so she could get to know them. “They could earn a free lesson if they came in and hit on the wall 20 times,” Susan explains. One of these children was Ronald Elizondo, who today is the founder and director of Tennis Success in Corpus Christi, a program in its 11th year that impacts the lives of youth through tennis and education.

Susan and the other tennis pros at Al Kruse have seen many of their students continue their love of tennis by playing in college or becoming instructors. One of these students was Leonardo Duarte who today is an instructor in Los Angelos.

Leo was a nationally ranked player and an instructor at the center. Susan remembers calling him to the courts to hit

with John McEnroe who was in town for an exhibition with Jimmy Connors. “I saw Leo hit a ball between his legs back to McEnroe. I didn’t know he had that capability! It was a proud moment for me,” Susan says.

Putting together weekly leagues and numerous events throughout the year is the job of the creative office staff at Al Kruse. Diana Scherer, Doris Schultz and Bill Leddon are Susan’s right hands with over 40 combined years at the facility.

“She’s kind of a one man band!”

Scherer says of Susan. In 2009 Susan was awarded United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA) Facility Manager of the Year for the State of Texas. Susan credits her staff for the success of the center. “The reason I feel that we are doing a good job is that we have always been blessed with competent people,” Susan explains.

The Wednesday morning Ladies Doubles League at Al Kruse is so popular it has doubled in participation in 3 years. Fifty-four women, ages 25 to 76, play and several travel from Mathis and Woodsboro.

Coveted prizes are given to the winners at the end of the season which always has a theme and ends with lunch.

This tournament is on its tenth year of garnering proceeds for the Foundation as well

Several benefit tournaments are played each year at Al Kruse.

The newest is “Pause for Paws,” benefiting the Pee Wee’s Animal Shelter raising $6,400 its first year.

Tennis has been called a lifetime sport. Tennis Pro Al Kruse played into his 70s as did Dr. Shelby Torrance. “Tennis is a fountain of youth and the way you do it, is you just keep showing up,” says Susan.

“An astonishing response by the community; when you say yes more than no, good things happen,” says Susan. She also said yes to Pat Schreckenbach who wanted a benefit tournament for the Schleroderma Foundation in honor of his deceased wife, Patty Ann Schreckenbach, who took lessons from Susan.

thebendmag.com

19

as providing matching funds for youth programs at Al Kruse.

“This is a little tennis center that has a big heart to serve the community,” says Susan, “I feel very privileged to be a part of this tennis center.”

“It is perhaps not by accident but rather by divine design that before striking the ball to begin the game of tennis, a player must call out ‘Love All’,” Susan explains. “We think it means nothing in tennis but I believe it means everything.”

Creager

Country Roger Creager might have left the Coastal Bend, but the Coastal Bend never left Creager. On the brink of his new album release, Roger Creager reminisces about his roots, his love for the outdoors and his relationship with good old dad.

“I FOLLOWED ROBERT EARL KEEN FROM DALLAS TO THE SPARKLING CITY BY THE SEA; I JUMPED UP ON THE SEAWALL AND SANG, “CORPUS CHRISTI BAY.”

Words: Sara Yonker | Photos: Jason Page Photograph

“I’M TRYING TO KEEP UP WITH HIM”

IF YOU GO: WHEN: July 3rd 7pm WHERE: Brewster St. Ice House Parking Lot WHAT: Bill Creager’s 80th Birthday Bash w/ Roger Creager, Kevin Fowler & Max Stalling HOW: Order tickets at breswsterstreet.net

HAVING FUN ALL WRONG Even when Roger Creager is miles away from his hometown, there are parts of it: the free spirit, the small-town kindness and the love of the salty sea air – that never leave him. He spent his childhood fishing off Bob Hall Pier and his high school days soaking in the South Texas sunshine on the sandy beaches of Padre Island.

“I think there is saltwater in my blood,” he said, explaining that he chose to live in Houston instead of popular musician epicenters like Austin or Nashville so that he could easily go fishing at a moment’s notice and travel home during his spare time.

Even now, decades since growing up in the Coastal Bend, having traveled to Africa to climb Mount Kilimajaro, seeing bullfights in Spain, and surfing in Costa Rica – he still has a special place in his heart for the area he calls home.

Every now and then, he pulls up the real estate listings and dreams of coming home to the Sparkling City by the Sea. It’s not practical for the time being, with a need for his band to live close to each other and regularly jump on planes, but someday he hopes to get back to the slower pace of life he grew up with in Corpus Christi. The place birthed his deep appreciation for a simple life, his love for the outdoors and sense of adventure that resonates in his music.

Creager, who rose to popularity during the boom of Texas Country Music in the late 1990s, is one of the original stars of the Texas Country Music revolution. He sung his anthems at both small bars and concert centers across Texas along with performances in Europe, Mexico and Canada and was honored with the prestigious Entertainer of the Year award in the 2001 Texas Country Music Awards. His songs cover everything from

thebendmag.com

22

drunken nights, break-ups and family. He mixes that with lyrics uniquely Texan – such as inheriting his grandfather’s guns or loving Tex-Mex food, including “a jalapeno pepper on a cheesy enchilada” paired with a cold beer that he describes in his song, “A feeling I get.” As he prepares to release a new album this summer, his music is only part of the story.

THE UTLIMATE OUTDOORSMAN There aren’t many outdoor activities that Creager hasn’t tried. Creager skis several times a year. As a big fan of mountain climbing, he’s travled to exotic locales like Africa, fishes regularly, snorkels, scubas, surfs and hunts An avid saltwater fisherman who takes his offshore boat out weekly during summer months, Creager’s love of fishing began when he caught his first fish off Bob Hall Pier at the age of three while with his father on a fishing trip with a church

group.

“I was really too little,” he said. “I was the mascot.”

But then he caught one.

It was a flounder. How big was it? “Big enough!” he remembers with a chuckle.

Occasional fishing trips in his childhood gave him enough taste for the sport that it became a favorite pastime in his mid-20s. Now, his offshore fishing trips can easily become snorkeling adventures, too. He keeps a snorkel with him on his boat so that when he comes upon a group of dolphins or any other type of wildlife he wants to get a closer look at, he jumps right in.

What type of fish he fishes for depends on the season and how much time he has, he said. But he has one goal in mind.

boat is docked in Freeport, are his secret spots.

CORPUS CHRISTI ROOTS Creager was born at Spohn Hospital in Corpus Christi and spent his early years in the area. When he was five years old, his father, who worked as a civilian at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi,

“I KNEW HOW HE FELT. HE DEFINITELY THOUGHT IT WAS A MISTAKE. BUT I THINK HE WAS WILLING TO LET ME MAKE MY OWN MISTAKES.”

It was also during time spent in the Coastal Bend that he learned to dove hunt, which is still his favorite type of hunting. Although he still hunts deer once a year, he likes the socialization that is paired with dove hunting.

After graduating from Tuloso-Midway High School, his college years started at Texas A&M University in College Station, but graduated from Sam Houston State with a degree in accounting. He later returned to Texas A&M to finish his agriculture degree – something he never really uses, but had to finish as a point of pride.

It was in College Station that he first started performing songs he’d written and made a name for himself in the booming Texas country scene.

One moment when they looked up, they saw flashing lights, a .50 caliber gun pointed at them and Naval officers. The new regulations put in place after the terrorist attacks mandated that boats stay further away from naval vessels had just taken effect, and they had unknowingly gotten too close.

One of his early hits, “Having Fun All Wrong,” even has a line inspired by a moment early in Creager’s career. was transferred to Utah. The scenery changed dramatically Long before his fame, Creager performed on the Corpus from going fishing and spotChristi downtown seawall, ting seagulls to the mounhoping to collect cash from tains and citrus trees gave him an appreciation for other bypasses. Only afterward did he realize that walkers and areas of the country. When joggers don’t typically carry his family returned to Texas cash or care to contribute to when he was in junior high, a budding musician’s pocket.

Creager didn’t know how to The line from the song referplay anything but basketball and didn’t know what a mes- ences one of Creager’s musical influences, Robert Earl quite tree was.

Keen, and his popular song, Still, he fell easily back into “Corpus Christi Bay.” the Costal Texas lifestyle. He “I followed Robert Earl Keen learned to play football and from Dallas to the Sparkling spent a little too much time City by the Sea; I jumped goofing off at the beach with his friends when he should’ve up on the seawall and sang, Corpus Christi Bay.” been studying.

That’s about the only place he’ll admit to fishing in. All his other regular locations, whether in Port Aransas, Corpus Christi or near where his

“It was really hard to graduate high school being so close to the beach,” he said.

“At least it was for me with the friends that I had.”

“All of the fish I intentionally catch are delicious,” he said.

And although catching fish to eat is typically the goal, he occasionally finds himself in trouble, too. Just after Sept.

11, 2001, Creager and a longtime friend were fishing in Corpus Christi Bay near where Naval Station Ingleside was at the time.

LIKE FATHER, LIKE SON Creager’s next trip back to Corpus Christi will also tie in with a concert in honor

thebendmag.com

23

of his father’s 80th Birthday. Creager will perform at Brewster Street Icehouse on July 3 along with fellow Texas artists Max Stalling and Kevin Fowler.

Bill Creager was in the U.S. Army while Roger was young, including serving as a Green Beret, and remained in the reserves for much of Roger’s childhood.

“He was always in the military and in spite of that, he was fairly laid back as a dad,” he said. “He rode us pretty hard, but we probably needed that.”

When Creager announced his intentions to pursue a music career fulltime instead of putting to use either of the degrees he earned, his entire family tried to dissuade him – except his father.

“He didn’t say anything,” Creager said. “I knew how he felt. He definitely thought it was a mistake. But I think he was willing to let me make my own mistakes.”

His father has since come around after seeing his son’s success, regularly driving from his home in the Coastal Bend to Creager’s concerts in San Antonio, Austin, Houston and of course, Corpus Christi. His father, despite his age, is the one who sets the pace, Creager jokes.

“I’m trying to keep up with him,” he said.

His father is known to join his band on stage when they perform Rancho Grande.

“I have to do that song last,” Creager said. “[My dad] steals the show every night he hits a home run. I can’t follow that.”

thebendmag.com

24

You might not know him, but you are probably familiar with his sharks, especially if you have ever seen Jaws, the classic horror film.

You can almost hear the accelerating, ominous anthem from Jaws as Ira Loveday begins to share one of his shark tales. It was sometime back in the late 1950’s, when Bob Hall Pier was 1,600ft long, about two thirds longer than today’s length. Young Loveday sat about 400 ft. off the pier in a small inner tube with a baited hook in his lap. Back then, he would help his dad and brother by swimming the bait out from the pier. Loveday’s only problem – it was hard for sharks to tell the difference between him and the bait.

thebendmag.com

25

“I had big hands and long arms, so I could get myself out there pretty quick, that’s when I thought I saw a dark shadow pass by,” said Loveday. Turns out it wasn’t just a shadow after all. “The shark turned around and was headed straight towards me. Right as it approached I tossed out the jack fish baited hook and the shark latched on.”

“Back then the thought was to kill it before it kills you. It was about self-preservation,” said Loveday.

This mindset inspired the most famous shark film to date, Jaws, and led to Ira’s first big break in shark fishing. In 1973, Loveday received an ironic call from Love Productions (no relation). They were searching the globe for the world’s best shark fisherman and Loveday “The shark turned around and was was on their radar. They ofheaded straight towards me. Right as fered Loveday $12,000 for his it approached I tossed out the jack fish sharks, a lot of money at the baited hook and the shark latched on.” time. Of the seven fish Loveday shipped for the film, one was a 13.4ft tiger shark and He pulled himself out of the water and lay another a 10.2ft tiger shark. You might perfectly flat on the tube. His dad, not re- remember a scene towards the beginning alizing he already had a shark on the end of the film when the beachgoers of Amity of his line, yelled at him for not doing his Island believe they captured the shark job. Loveday said he didn’t move an inch and proceed to cut open the stomach. until his tube sat entirely on land. In fact, Well, that shark was an exact replica of the shark made it ashore before he did. a tiger shark Loveday caught right here along the Coastal Bend.

Loveday was just a child when he moved to Corpus Christi with his family. His Jaws was a blockbuster hit! The film’s father, a passionate fisherman, was one success prompted a major spike in Coastal of the first in the area to use a shark Bend shark fishing. A friend of Loveday’s reel. Ira followed in his father’s footsteps at that time started taking out the shark and started shark fishing when he was teeth and wearing them around his neck. eleven years old, but didn’t catch his first The “shark tooth necklace” quickly spread shark until age fifteen. He fell in love as a local trend. Loveday continued to with the sport and went on to break state share his love for shark fishing with eager records. Loveday said that most of the fishermen looking for a new adventure. time he wouldn’t register the sharks he Loveday once caught eleven sharks in caught. Although they were all records, one day; however, there is always the they weren’t his personal best, so why one that got away. For Loveday, that bother. Eventually, he built up a reputashark is known as Leader Mouth – named tion around town and earned himself the after the many leaders hanging from nickname “Shark Hunter.” the greater hammerhead’s mouth. One

time, Loveday had Leader Mouth at the end of his line, but was forced to let him go (not by choice) after the boat was dragged sideways and pulled so close to the surface that it took on too much water. Another encounter with Leader Mouth occured after along day of shark fishing. Leader Mouth jumped out of the water and bit into one of Loveday’s sharks, bending the boat rail and dragging the boat’s nose into the water. Judging by the size of the bite, Loveday and others believe this giant beast could have been anywhere from 28ft to 30ft long.

It wasn’t until the late 80’s that the mindsets on shark fishing changed, said Loveday. Sharks are no longer viewed as man eating monsters.

“Sharks don’t like to eat people,” said Loveday, “They just don’t have a way to figure out what something is, so they just use their mouth.”

On paper, Loveday no longer holds the state record for his sharks, but that’s only because he never registered some of his largest, like a 16ft/1,551lbs Greater Hammer Head for instance. But that only adds a touch of mystery to the legend of Ira Loveday. Not too long ago, Loveday stood in an old bait shop next to an onlooker of some old fishing photos. He leaned over to the gentleman, pointed at an old photo of himself and asked if he had ever heard of Ira Loveday.

“Of course I have,” answered the stranger.

Antibiotic-free, gluten-free chicken nuggets are here.

NEW! J.D. Nuggetz Kid’s Meal

Corpus Christi 1416 Airline / 361-992-4649 5325 Saratoga / 361-980-8300

Important for parents: If you have gluten-sensitive kids, please tell your order taker.

thebendmag.com

27

And so much more...

thebendmag.com

28

CCMORF Wednesdays represent a midweek lull for most, but not for the Corpus Christi Midget Ocean Racing Fleet.

Words: Fares Sabawi Photos: Rachel Durrent

While gazing across the water after a long day’s work in downtown Corpus Christi, it’s not uncommon to see a fleet of yachts racing against one another. The members of CCMORF have convened every Wednesday at 6 p.m. at the Lawrence Street T-Head for more than 50 years to race their boats around the bay.

The organization was founded in 1960 in an effort to promote sailing in the Coastal Bend. CCMORF has since kept the Wednesday Night Weekly Series alive partially because it serves as a good escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Others, however, look to it as a way to hone their sailing skills.

“It’s just a fun race in the middle of the week. It gets everybody out of work and not thinking about bills or work or anything else,” said CCMORF Fleet Captain Richard Rincon. “The serious racers around town use Wednesdays as a practice race.”

One of those serious racers is Doug Weakly, who coordinates the weekly Wednesday race. “I’ve done J-24 racing all over the state, and race in Florida and Chicago every year,” he said. Weakly started his sailing career locally in the Coastal Bend. “I got my start right here in the sea scouts,” he said.

thebendmag.com

29

CCMORF is kept alive by the enthusiasm of its members. “It’s a nonproft, we don’t try and make money,” Rincon said. “We just try to promote sailing.”

CCMORF hosts more competitive regattas throughout the year, however, including the Frostbite Series in February and an offshore regatta in June, that takes place in Port Aransas.

Another regatta that CCMORF puts together is the Deniz Tor Memorial Regatta in March, which honors a late member of the group. “He was a local attorney in town, and a member of CCMORF, the Corpus Christi Yacht Club and the Bay Yacht Club,” Rincon said. “After he passed away, we named what was the March Winds Regatta to the Deniz Tor Memorial Regatta.” Trophies get handed out for each regattas, but in January, all of the members attend the end-of-theyear party to find out which boat did best over all. “We give trophies for participation in Wednesday night

racing,” Rincon said. “We also award the Competition Cup, which goes to the overall best-performing boat for all year.”

Not all CCMORF members own a boat. Rincon, for example, joined the organization for his love of the hobby.

He has been fleet captain for nearly two years now. “The previous fleet captains tend to be yacht owners,” Rincon said. “I think I’m the first to not own a yacht. I race for other boat owners. ” CCMORF’s members do not restrict their racing talents to the Coastal Bend. In fact, members compete in regattas throughout the state and some compete throughout the country. “There are a lot of racers in Corpus Christi that take their boats to Houston, Canyon Lake, Lake Travis, Dallas and Oklahoma to do circuit regattas. I’ve got a board member who every summer races on the East Coast.

The members of CCMORF tend to be into sailing a little bit more than the thebendmag.com

30

regular Yacht Club members but we’re very open to letting anybody come and join us that want to.”

CCMORF has become a regular stop for sailing enthusiasts from out of town as well, Rincon mentioned.

“People email us when they’re coming from out of town telling us ‘we’re going to be in the Corpus Christi area, how do I get on a boat?’ We just tell them to come on down,” Rincon said.

People are always invited to join and play their part in sailing. CCMORF invites those who look for an up close and personal perspective of sailing.

“What people need to know about sailing in Corpus Christi is that there are more boats than people to run them,” Weakly said. “Anybody who’s interested can come down and get involved.”

The competitive spirit does not affect the camaraderie of the members however, according to Rincon.

Regardless of race results, all

Horace Caldwell Pier Port Aransas Beach Rd. Port Aransas, TX 78373

members unite in their love of sailing.

“There’s a lot of competition, but in the Caribbean spirit and nature of sailing, there’s a lot of sportsmanship and honesty that goes on,” Rincon said.

“We just promote the spirit and nature of healthy sailing.” It’s in that friendly spirit that CCMORF often lends a hand to help with other regattas in town, Rincon said.

“Whenever there’s a national or international regatta hosted by the CCYC, a lot of the MORF members help volunteer,” he said. “They’re on the ground helping or providing boats.

We try to help everyone.” Some come out to the bleachers on the T-Head to watch the races begin. “The city was nice enough to set up some bleachers on the starting line. Luckily, during late spring and summer, sunset doesn’t come until relatively late, so you can watch the boats go out and come back in and still have plenty of time to do other things.” Others watch it from their cars, or see it on their drive. The

best view however, is the one you’ll get from the boat itself.

“I started with the sea scouts, knowing nothing, and I’ve come a long way,” Weakly said. “If you figure out how to sail, you meet a lot of people and go a lot of places and see a lot of things.

If you think there’s nothing to do here, you’re crazy not to get involved.”

WHERE: Lawrence St T-head WHEN: Wednesdays @ 6pm Free to the Public For More Information: www.ccmorf.org

thebendmag.com

31

Q&A || The Rankin Twins

“ Q&A

The Rankin Twins Amy and April Rankin grew up in Portland, TX, where they loved to play music for friends and family. Much has happened since childhood, but these sisters are learning that there is nothing they can’t accomplish together.

“We’ve faced everything together so we have a pretty tight bond.”

– April Rankin

thebendmag.com

32

WHAT WAS IT LIKE GROWING UP IN PORTLAND AND WHAT WERE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE HANGOUTS OR THINGS TO DO? What a great place to grow up. It was the perfect small town life. We left our doors unlocked, played outside all day and walked to school... sometimes. We used to make our babysitter roly poly mudpies and get to ride in the back of our dad’s pickup truck after t-ball games to get our free ice cream from Dairy Queen. We moved in 6th grade but still consider Portland our hometown.

WHEN DID YOU FIRST GET INTO MUSIC? WHO DID YOU LISTEN TO GROWING UP AND WHAT WERE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE CONCERT VENUES? We used to perform some sort of show for the family with our next door neighbor Stephanie Jetton every Christmas Eve, and we took dance lesson from Miss Kathleen, so we’ve had the bug to perform pretty much all our lives. Anytime the radio was on we were singing. We loved the Judd’s, REBA, Madonna, and then later in life The Dixie Chicks. We’ve always loved to sing and in college we won a Dixie Chicks look-a-like contest and got front row tickets to their show.

From that moment on we knew we would be on a stage someday. It took a breakup and a brain tumor to finally set that in motion though.

HOW HAVE THE OBSTACLES YOU FACED SHAPED YOUR RELATIONSHIP AS BOTH MUSICIANS AND SISTERS? We’ve faced everything together so we have a pretty tight bond. When Amy was diagnosed with a brain tumor in Sept. 2008 it wasn’t about how to handle it or the what-ifs, it was all about moving forward and focusing on what we were going to do when she recovered.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST DIFFICULT ASPECT OF BREAKING INTO THE MUSIC INDUSTRY? Just like any new artist out there, it’s sometimes hard to get people to just listen or try your music out.

It takes persistence. The best kind of advertising is word-of-mouth which a lot of times takes a while to catch on and then sometimes it catches on like wild fire.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE HOBBIES OUTSIDE OF MUSIC? Photography- we have another full-time business actually called “Twinty Photography” that takes up any spare time at home and on the road. April started the business in 2006. We are blessed to have such awesome careers.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES FROM TOURS SO FAR? We tour with a full band in a 12-passenger van, “Laverne”, and trailer, “Shirley” and then also sometimes just the two of us. One of my favorite stories is before we even had a van and trailer.

We pulled up to a gig in Oklahoma opening for Wade Bowen in a rented van. Basically, their crew saw on the day sheet the Rankin Twins were opening and assumed we were boys. So when they saw us pull up driving the van they thought we were the girlfriends and pretty cool ones for driving our men around. Haha. It took a couple minutes of us hauling our gear inside to realize we looked an awful lot alike.

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELVES HEADING IN THE FUTURE? EVERYWHERE!!!! Our brains never stop working and we are constantly trying to grow as musicians, writers and singers as well as build our brand. We dream BIG!!

thebendmag.com

33

Coastal Trends || Wedding Day

Wedding Day THE BRIDE: Brittany Rashelle Rioth | THE GROOM: Peter David Nystrom | BIG DAY: April 5, 2014 LOCATION OF CEREMONY: Galvan House at Heritage Park LOCATION OF RECEPTION: Galvan House at Heritage Park.

Heritage Park has special meaning for me. I grew up in Corpus Christi, and I remember visiting the park when I was a little girl. I think the old houses are beautiful. There is so much history and story in them. My grandma told me that she remembers visiting the Galvan house with her dad when she was a little girl. My mom and I enjoyed working with Mr. Juan Garcia in bringing the wedding day to life. He was patient in answering all of our many questions and doing all that he could to assist us.

WHAT WAS SERVED: After calling and visiting several different caterers, I was overjoyed to find Bottomless Pitt Bar-B-Que. When I drove to the restaurant, I was welcomed with friendly service and sat down to enjoy a tasty bite of our wedding day meal. Jessica

Garza and the catering department did such a great job of answering all of my questions and taking care of all of the details. On our wedding day, we ate brisket and chicken, rice and beans, and sweet tea.

CAKE: Our bride’s and groom’s cake came from Janet’s cakery. We had a 3- tier vanilla cake with buttercream filling. Our groom’s cake was chocolate. The staff at Janet’s was helpful in providing me with ideas, suggestions and recommendations.

I am thankful for their attention to detail and experience in providing quality cakes especially for weddings.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Durrent FLORIST: My flowers came from Always in Bloom. I enjoyed meeting with Donna and sharing with her my ideas. She enthusiastically put together an array of colors and arrangements of flowers that was beautiful to see come to life on our wedding day. thebendmag.com

34

DÉCOR RENTALS: My mom and I considered more than one rental company and then choose to work with Rental World. They were able to work well with our budget as well as provide wonderful customer service.

TELL US THE STORY OF HOW YOU TWO MET: Peter and I met in April of 2011, our senior year at Texas A&M University in College Station. Since we were both planning to go overseas and serve with CRU and other members of our church, we carpooled with some friends to a conference in Austin in order to learn how to build a team of ministry partners. Later in August, Peter and I both headed to East Asia where we would live and serve in ministry for the next two years.

Since we lived in different cities, we did not see or talk with each other very often. However, over the course of the next two years, Peter and I began to build a friendship that would eventually lead to our desire to begin dating each other upon our return to the States.

HOW DID HE PROPOSE: Peter and I had been dating for almost 6 months and had talked about engagement before. However, on that Saturday I was completely unaware of what was to come.

To me it seemed like a typical weekend, in which Peter would drive down from Houston to spend time with me. We had breakfast with my parents and sister and later ate lunch at a nice deli in town. We had a really good talk at lunch and everything seemed wonderfully normal.

Then, after we had bought some last minute Christmas presents and viewed a beautiful cathedral downtown, Peter suggested we drive to a local restaurant to get some coffee. Well, it was closed, so he then pulled into a parking lot across the street in order to turn around (or so I thought). He parked right in front of a dance studio where we had taken a private waltz lesson at a few weeks ago. He pointed to it and suggested that we go inside, to which I replied that it was closed so we would not be able to. When he insisted that we should give it a try anyway I started to think that something might be up!

Sure enough, he opened the door to the studio, and I saw one solitary table towards the back with red roses on it. He gently led me to the table, dropped down to one knee and asked me to be his wife, to which I responded with a yes before he even finished asking the question!!! WHO OR WHAT HAS BEEN MOST HELPFUL AND/OR INSPIRING IN THE WEDDING PLANNING PROCESS? Throughout the wedding planning process, so many of my friends and family offered to help and were so supportive of Peter and me. My mom spent almost every Friday afternoon driving here and there with me, calling vendors, and tirelessly helping me with all of the details both big and small. My grandma spent thebendmag.com

35

hours cutting pink ribbon and tying bows for the ceremony, as well as helping me to be creative in decorating. My sister planned a shower for me and was so supportive in not only listening to my ideas but helping me to bring them to life.

How fun it was to get creative with her! My dear friend and maid of honor flew all the way from Greece to be with me during that weekend.

Many of our friends drove from out of town to be at our wedding and celebrate with us. I was so grateful for all of the wonderful people who were in our wedding party and who came as guests to be there with us on our special day.

WHAT PART OF THE PLANNING PROCESS WAS MOST STRESSFUL? For me, at times, I would get overwhelmed with all that was going on at one time, and with all of the many, many details that needed to come together for this one big day. In those times, my close girlfriends would encourage me to keep focused on the purpose of our big day, and that was to be married to my best friend, Peter.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR SPECIAL DAY? My favorite part of our special day was the people. I loved having all of our close friends and family together with us. I treasure the time spent with my bridesmaids throughout the day, and in the morning with Peter and his groomsmen as we set up the reception area. I laughed with and smiled for 3 amazing photographers, and received so many hugs from family and friends. I will never forget being kissed by my dad on one cheek and by my mom on the other as they both gave me away, or when I spun around and around dancing with my dad at the reception. Not to mention who I got to leave the party with! It was a very special day.

WERE THERE ANY SURPRISE MOMENTS THROUGHOUT THE DAY? Right before I walked down the aisle, I got to spend a few minutes peeking through a window in the house that overlooked the rose garden. I watched as all of the guests were seated. I really enjoyed seeing everything come together in that moment as I listened to our wonderful violinist playing a song.

ANY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FUTURE BRIDES? I would recommend that you not allow the planning process to get the best of you! If you need to, break down all of the tasks, and create a new list for each day of what you need to accomplish. If you are able to prioritize and take one step at a time, then you will be able to better enjoy the people and the process all along the way.

Dressed for a perfect day-date.

Mosaics has Scott in cool mint and blue while Goosefeathers dresses Sage in a casual -prep summer dress. You won’t find looks like these anywhere else.

Summer Looks for you & your Sweetheart

From Goosefeathers & Mosaics thebendmag.com

36

Photos: Tina Alexandra

Goosefeathers take on color blocking pops on Sage with the teal and yellow. Sticking with the latest style trend, Mosaics dresses Scott in coral shorts.

thebendmag.com

37

Coastal Trends || Fashion

For an evening look, Sage sports a fit and flare dress from Goosefeathers that every girl needs in her closet. Scott pairs a casual polo with khakis from Mosaics.

Goosefeathers and Mosaics - located in Lamar Park thebendmag.com

38

LO C A L T R A I N I N G

G LO B A L R E A C H

DEL MAR COLLEGE Corporate Services provides customized training for large and small businesses connected to industry.

Corpus Christi, Texas www.delmar.edu/ce

(361) 698-2407

068 AD The Bend Mag.indd 1

• • • • • •

Customized skills training Private classes On-site instruction Facilitation services Grant procurement Training management 4/30/14 1:22 PM

thebendmag.com

39

Home || In the Know

Patio Pointers

1. Look for furniture with cushions made from fade resistant fabric. It is friendly to our harsh South Texas sun.

2. Cushions with Velcro that attaches to the furniture will ensure they stay in place regardless of the wind.

3. If you are wanting a rattan look, wicker resin is a nice option as opposed to true wicker. This type of furniture does well in the unforgiving salty air of our bay.

4. After finding the perfect set, spray all cushions with water-resistant serum.

It makes accidental spills and other entertaining mishaps a snap to clean up.

Our 5 tips

for picking the perfect Coastal Bend patio furniture this summer

5. To guarantee a long and happy relationship with your patio furniture, choose a neutral pallet. You can change out pillows, rugs and other outdoor accents as often as you’d like for a whole new look.

Picking out the right patio furniture in the Coastal Bend is no walk on the beach. Not only are you hoping to find something pleasing to the eye (and wallet), you are hoping to find furniture that will survive our South Texas summers.

Here are a few things to keep in mind: Photos: Rachel Durrent

thebendmag.com

40

S P EC I A L AD V E R T I S EMENT

“Home Performance” to the Rescue We love living in the Coastal Bend, but do you ever experience the aggravations that come with the area?

• High humidity • Hot or cold rooms • Allergies • Dust that reappears soon after cleaning • Ceiling fans that are always dirty

“You’re an air conditioning repair man! Why can’t you fix these problems?”

Over the years, I have seen people change their air conditioners, replace their windows, install expensive filters, UV lights, air purifiers, dehumidifiers and weather stripping. They have their duct or carpets cleaned and try many other expensive devices and services. All of these were supposed to solve their problems, but few saw lasting results. We once dreaded helping customers with these problems. We could get their system to work perfectly but the problems simply would not go away. Something needed to change.

The Whole Home Solution Enter the Home Performance concept! Home Performance is about viewing the entire building as a system, addressing issues like those listed above. The entire building should be considered, not just the air conditioner, windows or insulation alone. To understand what is happening throughout the building requires training in building envelopes, thermal barriers, psychometrics, air flow, air duct design, thermal imaging, combustion zone

safety and many other related subjects. In addition, there is specialized equipment to purchase and master. The whole process is expensive and time consuming for the contractor, but very much worth the effort.

Today, a Home Performance Contractor can go into a home and in 2 or 3 hours document each issue while showing the homeowner his findings as they go.

When my company became certified in home performance, we were one of about 400 air conditioning contractors nationwide who were certified and one of only 2 or 3 in the Corpus Christi area that had completed the certification process. This is just the beginning; over the next 10 years any reputable air conditioning company that cares about its customers will embrace home performance.

For now, it may take a little research to find a home performance contractor in your area, but the search will be worth the effort. A word of caution is necessary here. There are some utility company programs that offer duct sealing and weather stripping as part of a testing

thebendmag.com

41

• Black streaks on ceilings or dirt on a/c vents • Leather shoes turning green in the closet • Large carbon footprint/High utility bills

and energy saving project. We participate in these, but the training requirements are very basic and are not designed to solve comfort and health issues in a home. They merely look at reducing leakage into the home to try to lower electric usage.

So even if you have participated in one of the utility company programs in the past, you can still benefit from the services of a Certified Home Performance Contractor.

The good news for the Coastal Bend is that we no longer have to put up with all of our past aggravations. Our homes can be clean, healthy and comfortable to live in. The same solutions that make your home healthier and more comfortable also make it more energy efficient.

You can have all the benefits and still help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint. What’s not to like about that?

Jack Britton, President AireServ of the Coastal Bend thecoastalbend.aireserv.com

THE BEST

The Perfect View OF BOTH WORLDS

Photos: Rachel Durrent thebendmag.com

42

{Comfortable outdoor furniture makes the large lanai an inviting space.}

F

or years, Raul and Kim Ramos had longed to find the perfect lot on which to build their home. They both have a love for the outdoors, so they knew they wanted plenty of land. They also enjoy fishing and water sports, so they wanted to be on the water. After years of searching, the couple found an amazing lot that met both of their requirements. It would be here, just outside of Portland and on Nueces Bay, that they would build their dream home.

“The first two things Raul built when we purchased the lot were a barn and a 25 foot fishing pier” says Kim. But plans were also in the works for the new home that would be nestled upon their nearly four and a half acre lot. Working with an architect and two design consultants, Raul and Kim designed a home that would reflect their sense of style and take advantage of the beautiful bay views.

At just under 5,000 square feet, the home is comfortably elegant. The foyer boasts a sparkling chandelier which hangs from a textured gold and bronze domed ceiling. A similar domed ceiling with chandeliers also graces the over-sized island that is the center of a kitchen that is truly the heart of the home. “I love my kitchen. It is bright and airy, has wonderful views of the water, and is roomy enough for all of the family to gather,” adds Kim. Much entertaining is also done in the “Bay Room”. It, too, faces the water view and has its own bar area and comfortable couches that invite relaxation.

The family can often be found at the gazebo near the fishing pier. With a grill area and plenty of seating, it is ideal for enjoying everything from cook-outs, fishing, ATV rides and target practice. Kim even has plenty of space for her chickens.

“Raul and I have always dreamed of living in this area. For us, with the water and the acreage, it is the best of both worlds.” thebendmag.com

43

{Groined ceilings lead the way down an amazing, spacious hall.}

1.

3.

2.

1. The “Bay Room� is a relaxing retreat where friends and family gather to enjoy a spectacular view of Nueces Bay.

4.

2. The living room is lined with tall windows overlooking Nueces Bay. 3. Kim admits that her spacious closet is one of her favorite rooms in the house.

4. Located off of the great room, the kitchen opens up for the perfect entertainment environment. thebendmag.com

44

FARM TO TABLE

BAKED WHOLE SNAPPER Words: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Durrent thebendmag.com

45

O

ne of the simple pleasures of living in the Coastal Bend is to look out across the sparkling blue water and know that there are thousands of beautiful and delicious fish swimming beneath the waves. But what is the best way to get one of those delicious fish directly into your kitchen?

We picked up this whole red snapper from the fishing vessel Saw Dawg when the crew docked in Port Aransas. This fish is as fresh as it gets. On the Saw Dawg, when they bring up a catch, they put the fish into a cold saltwater brine.

Captain CJ says the brine locks in the flavor and color of the fish--and the fish are lovely.

Regulations make it nearly impossible for you to buy directly from a commercial fishing boat.

However, we watched the crew of the Saw Dawg immediately unload their catch and deliver it straight to Morgan Street Seafood in Corpus Christi. To find fish this fresh, just go see Charlie at Morgan Street Seafood.

We baked this beautiful red snapper whole with the head on. We love this rustic and elegant presentation; it is a refreshing change from the common filet. To serve, lift the skin from the top and take the flaky white flesh. Then peel away the bones all in one piece from the tail to the head and take the fish from the bottom.

We served this snapper family style and gave thanks for our fish that was swimming the day before in the deep blue waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Recipe: Baked Whole Snapper Serves 4 to 6

Ingredients: 3-5 lb whole snapper, head on, cleaned and scaled Salt and pepper, to taste 3 lemons (or limes), sliced ½ onion, sliced ¼ cup fresh dill, finely chopped 3 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tbsp olive oil For white wine butter sauce: 4 tbsp butter 2 tbsp olive oil zest and juice of one lemon (or lime) 2 tbsp onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced ¼ cup dry white wine 1/3 cup fresh dill

thebendmag.com

46

Prep time: 15 mins Cook time: 30-50 mins,

depending on weight of fish

Servings: 4-6 Heat oven to 400°F. For the fish: Place fish side down onto oiled aluminum foil. Drizzle cavity with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place lemon and onion slices into fish cavity. Combine dill, rosemary, garlic and olive oil in a small bowl. Make 5 parallel half-inch deep incisions along the side of the fish and fill them with herb-garlic mixture. Bake 30 minutes for a three pound fish (or ten minutes per pound) in a preheated oven until the flesh flakes with a fork, or until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees.

For white wine butter sauce: While fish cooks, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Sweat onions for 2 minutes. Add garlic and lemon zest. Cook until fragrant, stirring frequently. Add white wine and lemon juice and simmer on medium-low heat five minutes.

Remove from heat and add dill.

Pull fish away from the bone and serve with white wine butter sauce.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories 172 cal Carbohydrate

0.7 gm

Protein

2.8 gm

Fat 12.2 gm Saturated Fat

5.3 gm

Cholesterol

28.5 mg

The Bend Cuisine I scream, you scream, we all scream for Ice Cream...and other delicious treats around the Coastal Bend.

Scoopy’s Hand Dipped Strawberry Waffle Cone Scoopy’s Veranda has a variety of sweet treats ranging from this hand rolled waffle cone with Strawberry Blue Bell Ice cream to one of their signature desserts like a Chocolate Barnacle.

Scoopy’s is a perfect stop before or after hitting the beach with beautiful sunset views over looking the bay.

thebendmag.com

47

13313 S Padre Island13313 Dr S.P.I.D. CC, 78418 Corpus Christi, TX 78418

Cuisine || Eats & Treats (361) 883-3773 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only

Republic of Texas $$$$ 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 887-1600 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only

Water Street Seafood Company

$$ 309 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-8683 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Yardarm $$ 4310 Ocean Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 855-8157 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only

Katz 21 $$$ 5702 Spohn Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 884-1221 Mon-Th: Lunch and Dinner Fri-Sat: Dinner Only

Sno-Ball Assorted Flavors & Vanilla Ice Cream

Thai Cottage $ 5830 McArdle Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 993-0777 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Freshly shaved ice piled into a rounded snow ball and doused in sweet flavor. With forty different flavors to choose from, there are plenty of unique combinations.

Combine with a large scoop of ice cream for a treat you won’t forget.

CORPUS CHRISTi Vietnam Restaurant $$$ 701 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 853-2682 Mon-Fri: Lunch and Dinner Sat: Dinner Only Bleu Bistro $$$ 500 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 887-2121 Mon-Th: Lunch and Dinner Fri-Sat: Dinner Only

2330 Airline Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78414

Aka Sushi

$$ 415 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-8885 Mon-Fri: Lunch and Dinner Sat: Dinner Only

Bellinos $$ 3815 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 814-8998 Tues-Sat: Lunch and Dinner

Citrus Bistro

$ 100 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-2047 Mon- Fri: Lunch Only

Niko’s Steakhouse $$ 5409 Saratoga Boulevard, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 992-2333 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner Mamma Mia’s

$$$ 128 N Mesquite St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

thebendmag.com

48

Russos Coal Fired Italian Kitchen $$ 6418 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 986-0620 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Grimaldis $$ 5488 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, Texas 78411 (361) 980-8600 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Sang’s Imperial Café $$ 4650 Corona Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 808-8881 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner

Saltwater Grill $$ 2401 Cimarron Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 993-7258 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Mesquite Grill $ 224 N Mesquite St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 884-8870 Mon-Fri: Lunch and Dinner; Sat: Dinner Only

Chiquita Drive Thru Piña Preparada A large pineapple gorged and filled with pineapple chunks soaked in chamoy, sour tape candy, gummy bears, sour worms, cherries, salt and lemon.

Served with your choice of Smirnoff, chiller or non-alcoholic beverage.

BonnA-Petit $ 4301 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 299-5127 Mon-Sat: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Hoegemeyer’s BBQ $ 711 Concrete Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 884-4227 Mon-Fri: Lunch Only

TakeNiwa $$ 5216 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 356-6888 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

PORT ARANSAS

Venetian Hot Plate $$$ 232 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-7617 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only Shells $$$ 522 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-7621 Weds-Mon: Lunch and Dinner The Pelican Club $$$ 914 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-0580 Weds-Sun: Dinner Only

6243-6373 Holly Rd Corpus Christi, TX 78412

thebendmag.com

49

Cuisine || Eats & Treats

La fruteria Granolada The Granolada is one of many amazing fruit combinations found in La Fruteria. Start your day with this fresh and healthy combination of apples, bananas, cantaloupe, cherries, coconut, grapes, kiwi, pineapples, strawberries and watermelon covered with honey, granola and natural yogurt.

2322 Airline Road Corpus Christi TX 78414

Lisabella’s Bistro $$$ 5009 Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-4222 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only

Café Pheonix $ 229 Beach Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-9277 Mon-Th: Lunch Only; FriSat: Lunch and Dinner

Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn $$$ 200 E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-1540 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only

Irie’s

$ 503 North Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-2310 Tues-Sun: Lunch Only

Latitude 2802

Seafood & spaghetti works $$ 901 South Alister St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-5666 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

$$$ 105 N Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-9009 Tues-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

PADRE ISLAND

ROCKPORT

Dragonfly

Glow

$$ 1815 Broadway St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-2644 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only

The Boiling Pot

$$ 201 S Fulton Beach Rd, Fulton, TX 78382 (361) 729-6972 Mon-Th: Dinner Only; Fri-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Doc’s Seafood and Steaks $ 13309 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-6744 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

portland

Black Sheep Bistro

pep’s

Scuttlebutts $$ 14254 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-6769 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

thebendmag.com

50

$$ 13313 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-8815 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

$$$ 14701 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Chisti, TX 78418 (361) 949-2224 Tues-Fri: Lunch and Dinner; Sat: Dinner Only $$$ 15201 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-4819 Mon-Sat: Dinner Only; Sun: Lunch Only

Shempy’s Grill $$ 3911 Highway 35 S Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-0019 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Snoopy’s Pier

$ 1807 US 181, Portland, TX 78374 (361) 643-1361 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

Aging stops here.

Carmen Casas, M.D. Board Certified Dermatologist

Call 994-1001 5756 S. Staples Ste. J1 (Staples at Holly)

INTRODUCING

Exclusive treatment for cheek augmentation to correct volume deficits mid-face

• Painless BBL Laser Hair Removal, Both Underarms $150 • Laser skin firming “Skin Tyte” Neck $300

New Patients Brow Lift

$500 $450

New patients buy 3 and get the 4th free

$600 per syringe $500 per syringe

• Get a 6 Micron Laser Peel $350 thebendmag.com

We accept CareCredit

51

Free cosmetic consultation

An Immersive Experience There’s just so much to see and do in and out of the water. Check out our interactive exhibits, play in our H-E-B Splash Park – you can even reach out and touch a stingray or shark! Don’t go to the beach and miss out on all the wildlife; it’s all here at the Texas State Aquarium. Bring your family and come soak it all in today!

texasstateaquarium.org #SoakItIn

thebendmag.com

52