November 2020 Issue by The Bend Magazine

Tasting global cuisine without leaving the Coastal Bend

PAM REHABILITATION HOSPITAL & LTACH OF CORPUS CHRISTI

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

INPATIENT REHABILITATION SERVICES

Post Acute Medical offers multiple levels of service providing excellent continuity of care for our patients with a focus on returning home and back to the business of life as quickly and safely as possible.

Patients who are admitted to inpatient rehabilitation services are medically stable and demonstrate an ability to benefit from an intensive physical medicine and rehabilitation program for an average length of stay of 10-12 days. Rehab patients can be admitted from hospitals or home. Patients are medically managed by a team of physicians daily and may receive a combination of physical, occ pational, speech therapy, respiratory services and wound care. Post Acute Medical offers specialty programs for stroke, spinal cord injury and brain injury.

OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION SERVICES

Outpatient rehabilitation is an important part of the progression of care. Outpatient services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language pathology.

INPATIENT REHABILITATION SERVICES

Outpatient Services

Specialty Hospitals (LTACH)

Rehabilitation Hospitals

One call to POST ACUTE MEDICAL is the first step to regaining your independence and the path to recovery and healing.

Patients who are admitted to inpatient rehabilitation services are medically stable and demonstrate an ability to benefit from an intensive physical medicine and rehabilitation program for an average length of stay of 10-12 days. Rehab patients can be admitted from hospitals or home. Patients are medically managed by a team of physicians daily and may receive a combination of physical, occupational, speech therapy, respiratory services and wound care. Post Acute Medical offers specialty programs for stroke, spinal cord injury and brain injury.

One call to POST ACUTE MEDICAL is the first step to regaining your independence and the path to recovery and healing.

OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION SERVICES

LONG-TERM ACUTE CARE HOSPITAL SERVICES

Outpatient rehabilitation is an important part of the progression of care. Outpatient services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language pathology.

Central referral line: 361.500.0700

Traditional Long-Term Acute Care is recommended for those who require complex medical management and therapeutic care 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for an average length of stay of 25 days. Also, the patient is subject to daily assessments by our industry leading physicians.

LONG-TERM ACUTE CARE HOSPITAL SERVICES

LTACH patients can be admitted directly from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), are medically and physically compromised with multi-system complications, and/ or failures that require hospitalization, but have the potential for recovery and may then transition home to the next level of care.

Short stay Long-Term Acute Care patients demonstrate a need for daily physician oversight and could include cardiac management, chronic disease management, post-surgical care, GI disorders, pulmonary management or acute care readmission prevention.

EXPLORE .

RESTORE .

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

AROUND THE BEND

STYLE

TRENDING

WHAT’S ONLINE

GIVING BACK

5 BEST

PERSON OF INTEREST HEALTH

BE WELL

BEAUTY HOME & GARDEN

OPEN HOUSE

GARDENING

SPACES

ON VIEW: FEBRUARY 12  MAY 16, 2021

Exhibition

Alexander Calder, Self-Portrait (detail), 1925, oil on canvas, National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution; gift of the artist

What is your go-to international restaurant in the Coastal Bend?

Easy. Ginger Cafe.

I have dreams about Pavani Express. I’m almost glad I didn’t discover it until recently because otherwise I would have been ordering take-out at least twice a week. The food there is incredible; it was a flavor experience I didn’t expect to find in South Texas, and one absolutely everyone should try.

BKK Thai Kitchen & Bar. I wasn’t a big fan of Thai food, but a friend convinced me to try it out and I will recommend it to anyone who will listen! They have great food and the atmosphere is modern and stylish, but comfortable enough to feel like home.

SUBMISSIONS: kylie@thebendmag.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS: thebendmag.com

PRESIDENT: Jordan Regas

VICE PRESIDENT & EVENTS DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas

PUBLISHER: Chris Knapick

ART DIRECTOR: Jarred Schuetze

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Kylie Cooper

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE: Gloria Stauber

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Benavides

COPY EDITOR: Steve Gill

SENIOR WRITERS: Emma Comery

Kirby Tello

EDITORIAL INTERNS: Luis Arjona

Josh Maxwell

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Jason Page

Lillian Reitz

Aaron Garcia

CONTRIBUTORS:

Justin & Kayla Butts

Jillian Becquet

Jo Anne Howell

Jacqueline Gonzalez

Julieta Hernandez

Jessie Chrobocinski

Alexis Harborth

Monique Dennis

Monica Benavidez

Katy Jones-Gulsby

Terrie Moore

THE BEND OFFICE

309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.792.3606

On the Cover:

When I'm craving soup, no doubt I have to hit up Thai Cottage for their Tom Yum soup. It's the perfect balance of spicy and citrus. It hits the spot every time.

Taqueria Almeida #1 is our go-to spot anytime we are in the Bluff. It was mine before I got married, but thankfully my husband also loves it. The food is delicious!

I’m a sucker for Thai food, which is why Thai Cottage is my go-to whenever I’m craving some curry or some Pad Kee Mao.

ADVERTISING: gloria@thebendmag.com

BUSINESS: chris@thebendmag.com

When it came to picking a restaurant for this month’s cover, we knew involving Kil Lee and his beautiful creations at Dokyo Dauntaun was the way to go. Every dish is an artform – filled with color and intention. On the cover you’ll find two of their sushi bar’s specialties: the delectable Dokyo Tower. (Cover shot by: Rachel Benavides)

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FLAVORS of the WORLD

On a Tuesday evening back in late September, our Art Director Jarred Schuetze, Lead Photographer Rachel Benavides, and I arrive at Dokyo Dauntaun. The hostess smiles under her mask (you can always tell by the eyes), takes our temperatures, and then leads us to a booth in the back of the restaurant where a saturated pink light illuminates a mural painted by local artist Hector Marroquin. It’s the first time any of us have actually set foot inside a restaurant since mid-March, and although it feels a bit taboo, a sense of comfort quickly sets in. We’re in good hands, after all.

Kil Lee, the creative genius behind Dokyo, pops out from the kitchen and sets a handful of dishes on the table for us to start photographing. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of exchanging words with Lee, you’ll understand how important the local dining scene is to him and how bringing worldly flavors to plates in the Coastal Bend is something he not only feels passionately about, but views as crucial.

When meeting with and learning about the various restaurateurs behind the 22 other eateries you’ll read about in this month’s cover feature “World Eats,” we discovered that feeling a lack in diversity in our culinary scene is what allowed for many of these places to now exist. These owners shared stories of not having places to eat out that represented their backgrounds and cultures – so in order to have that experience, they decided to not just pull up a seat at the table, but create their own.

With the current pandemic climate continuing to alter the way we encounter practically every aspect of life, a new gravity seems to be placed on food and the way we experience it. Perhaps we had taken shared meals for granted. Maybe we had forgotten the educational value of a meal doused in rich history. In putting

this issue together, we were reminded just how powerful food can be. As Senior Writer Emma Comery so beautifully puts it, “[Food] doesn’t just nourish us; it brings us together. It doesn’t just introduce us to new flavors; it introduces us to new histories and perspectives.”

I’d like to take a moment to recognize Emma and the incredible work she’s produced for us over the last two years. In November 2018, she sent an email pitching a story for the magazine. After reading that first piece, I knew we had somehow acquired a rare find. The way Emma could tell a story, packed with personality and imagery, was so beautiful to me. And with this cover story, her last endeavor with us here at The Bend, she transports us all to a different place. One where good food is good food. One where – even though the majority of the meals were eaten out of styrofoam boxes alone – we all felt a little closer together than we have in quite some time.

With the holiday season in full swing, we understand our tables might look a little different this year. There may be fewer place settings, or meals shared completely virtually. Although it might not feel the same, the power of food and the sharing of a meal, no matter how it’s done, hopefully reminds us to be thankful for where we are, but more importantly, where we come from.

– KYLIE COOPER, Editorial Director kylie@thebendmag.com

THREE TAKEAWAYS:

1. The china cabinet as we know it didn’t actually become a popular addition to homes until the late 17th century. In this month’s Spaces section, Katy Jones-Gulsby does an excellent job telling the history of this tradition and giving tips to fill your own. Pg. 68

2. Coastal Bend native Saherish Surani recently published a book titled The Stories of U.S., giving ten different undocumented and first-generation Americans a platform to share their experiences and feel heard. Pg. 62

3. Local shop La Casita de Barro specializes in Mexican Talavera. Talavera is crafted with 16th century Spanish and Mexican ceramic techniques, using all-natural materials, and follows a specific process from preparing the clay to the final glazing and firing stages. Pg. 74

Our way of doing business is designed to get to know you and your dreams. That’s something you won’t get from a website. From the first step until the last, we’ll be there through each milestone. Let’s talk today, and begin the journey to your dream home. We’ll be with you all the way.

ALEXIS HUNTER INTERIORS

ANN TAYLOR LOFT

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR

CHICO’S

FOUR CHICKS IN THE PARK

FRANCISCO’S SALON

GOLDSMITH JEWELERS

GRAY PHOTOGRAPHY

HANLEY • WOOD

HESTER’S CAFE

JULIAN GOLD

PILAR FASHION & FOLK ART

TALBOTS

THE POST

AROUND THE BEND

THE NEW CAMOUFLAGE

Pulling inspiration from the colors of our surroundings, earth tones take their lead from the naturally occurring color palette that Mother Nature gifts us. They are not garish or shouty, but subtle and powerful. Stand out by blending in – dressing in solid Earth tones is the new camouflage.

BY: JARRED SCHUETZE PHOTOS BY: AARON GARCIA

FUZZY FEELINGS

As temperatures drop, it's officially time for hibernation. Leave the wind, frost, and chill outside and cozy on up with something furry, fluffy, or fuzzy. From luxuriously soft faux furs to lush chairs you'll never want to leave – here are some fab finds to soften your surroundings.

BY: JARRED SCHUETZE

1. Bedtime Coffee Table Book Indigo Eclectic 2. Afghanistan Long Runner Messinger & Green 3. APPARIS Manon Verdant Green Faux Fur Julian Gold

4. Chi Chi Pom Pom Hook Pillow by Justina Blakeney General Goods Vintage 5. Patchwork Mongolian Intarsia Scarf Michael Kors 6. Orange Camila Clutch CHIA Columbian Handcrafted 7. Miranda Kerr Home - Cali Accent Chair Chic to Chic 8. UGG® Logo Fluff Yeah Multi-Color Slides Dillards

11. Woven Wall Hanging Home By Harvey 10 Colored Yarn Varities Yarn Texas

Southside Specialty Surgical Center is Designed exclusively for outpatient surgery. Here at Southside Specialty Surgical Center we have seven beds with 2 operating rooms. We are a state-of-the-art facility that uses the most modern surgical equipment available to date. Our staff includes board certified surgeons and anesthesiologists, registered nurses and medical technicians, professionally trained in surgical and recovery care.

Southside Specialty Surgical Center has earned The Joint Commission Gold Seal of Approval for Ambulatory Health Center Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization's commitment to providing safe and quality patient care. We specialize in Pain Management, Ophthalmology , and Spine procedures.

Our mission is to create a safe, physical environment prior to, during, and following a procedure. To minimize stress and anxiety by maintaining an atmosphere of compassion and understanding. We are currently accepting Medicare insurance and continuing to credential with other insurances. We are very proud to be serving Corpus Christi and surrounding areas.

A PROFESSION OF COMPASSION

ONE PERSON CARRYING A TORCH CAN LIGHT CANDLES FOR THOUSANDS OF OTHERS

BY: MONIQUE DENNIS PHOTOS COURTESY OF DR. JONATHAN PROCTOR AND SALTWORLD INC

Nonprofit organization SALTworld Inc. (Serving and Learning Together) provides donations and volunteer services to developing countries. The CEO and founder, Dr. Brande Flamez, is an international activist, professor, writer, and loving mother to her son and daughter. Dr. Flamez is currently servicing five countries, providing them with supplies while building homes, schools, and medical dispensaries.

With her clinical background in psychology, she has helped to design outpatient programs for adolescents, provided more than 100 training workshops to professionals, and coauthored seven textbooks with more than 32 book chapters and articles. Dr. Flamez has sat on several boards and committee chairs, including locally where she served on the Nueces County Child Welfare Board. She also holds many accolades that include being the recipient of 19 national awards and four international awards that demonstrate her allegiance to leadership, advocacy, and research in the field of counseling. This

scholarly background fused with a humble family upbringing is what led the doctor on her journey to humanitarian work and ultimately founding the nonprofit organization SALTworld Inc.

“Everyone deserves a seat at the table” is a saying that Dr. Flamez says she lives by. Told to her as a young girl by her grandfather, she says it is the driving force behind her passion for giving exponentially to people in need, locally and internationally.

As a descendent from a family that immigrated to the United States from the Ukraine, Dr. Flamez recalls growing up and seeing her grandfather and family always helping people. Whether it was giving them a seat at the table for a hot meal, helping them learn English, or to get jobs – if her family could be helpful, they made it their mission to help. With these values instilled in her, she allowed her traveling teachings to evolve into building selfsustainable projects in several underdeveloped countries.

“SALT in the Ukraine culture is a way of life. I truly believe that giving back is a necessity of life, but I also believe you have to be culturally sensitive, and we don’t just go in as experts,” Dr. Flamez says of the work she is doing with the people in Tanzania.

With the children in Tanzania lacking basic education and healthcare, she is proud to say that her organization built a kindergarten program that will graduated its sixth kindergarten class with over 80 students this coming December. Dr. Flamez did not stop there; she was also able to build a medical facility that services 15,000 Tanzanian people, who before would have not been able to seek medical care due to the strenuous lengths they would have to go to get to a hospital.

“I really believe that access to mental health, access to medical care, access to great education – that should be a right and not just a privilege because of where we grew up or where we come from,” Dr. Flamez passionately says. She is proud to use her gifts and talents to give back, to ensure that people gain more access to basic life necessities.

With all of the moving parts SALTworld Inc. has in motion, it was important to Dr. Flamez to not let the pandemic we’re all adapting to slow down her philanthropic efforts. However, the pandemic has halted their fundraising events. If you’re able, you can donate to their cause by visiting their website.

Welcomes Rachel Davis

Rachel Davis was born in Walnut Creek, California, and grew up in Houston and South Texas, as well as Port Aransas, where she graduated high school. She then moved on to Texas A&M University where she graduated with a degree in Architecture with minors in Business and Art & Architectural History. She became interested in restoration and sustainability and was able to put this to use during a study abroad program in Bonn, Germany. The past four years, she has been working as an architect intern learning the ins and outs of architecture through various construction projects.

TUESDAY – SATURDAY | 10:00 – 4:00

1908 HIGHWAY 361 IN PORT ARANSAS 361-749-0524

Craft Cocktails

BY: JULIETA HERNANDEZ PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Sipping a fresh prepared cocktail is an age-old pleasure. We go for the experience, the laughs, the buzz, and the taste: Different ingredients create unique flavors, and thankfully, someone already thought of it for us. At the bartender’s hand, we find fresh flavors and playful layers. Shaken or stirred, we’re ready, and these are some of the best around.

LADY LIBERTY

The Post’s most picturesque cocktail. The soft, bubbly drink starts with Dripping Springs Gin and muddled blueberries, giving it a soft purple dye. After getting some lemon juice and basil involved, the cocktail is roughly shaken and poured into a delicate coupe glass and topped with a sparkling prosecco floater. The aroma of the fresh basil garnish prepares you for the refreshing crisp taste. Enjoy it (with some pictures beforehand!) at the Post at Lamar Park in Corpus Christi. 411 Doddridge St #102

THE SATURN

A playful and spritzy cocktail; gin never tasted so otherworldly. The drink takes all the exciting elements of the liquor and celebrates it with passion fruit puree and an electric dash of fresh lemon juice. It’s touched with falernum, syrup that gives off ginger and clove notes, and orgeat, an almond-based mixture. Both are homemade with care especially for the Saturn. The result is a pretty canary-yellow drink, garnished with a lemon rind and a ripe blueberry. Enjoy one at Paradise Key in Rockport, Texas. 165 Cove Harbor N, Rockport, TX

SEXY MEXY

This recurring favorite has quickly become a staple in House of Rock’s rotating cocktail menu. The specialty margarita perfectly marries fruity and spicy components to create one kick of a drink. Tequila infused with freshly-cut pineapple and jalapeño slices soak over a few days to impart a sweet spiciness. The libation is roughly shaken with a fresh squeeze of lime juice, orange liquor, and a house-made simple syrup over a salted rimmed glass. Garnished with slices of raw jalapeño, this drink is not for the faint of heart. 511 Starr St

THE BANGKOK SOUR

A delightful remix of a classic, but something about this version draws us in a little more. Bourbon spiked with some ginger liqueur and lemon juice, ready to buzz and awaken the senses. Thickened by an egg white, the Bangkok becomes a little frizzy and delicious, but not complete until the red wine is added. The result? A yummy, tart beverage that is as unique as it is dimensional. Try it out at BKK Thai’s bar at Lamar Park. 3850 S Alameda St. #27

THE GEISHA

Herbal, aromatic elements draw a blissful experience to the tastebuds, and it all begins with the eruption of the rosemary smoke bubble at the first sip (just don’t try to inhale it, as we’ve hilariously learned). In the pale pink martini, Bombay Gin is intertwined with elderflower and lychee flavors, which is cut through by the citrus in grapefruit and lemon juice. Unique flavor is also contributed by the vanilla bean and organic flower used in their recipe, in which a fluffy smoke bubble rests prettily on top, ready to burst. Go pop it at Dokyo Dauntaun, Downtown Corpus Christi. 424 N Chaparral St.

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR

A.J. “Blanco Biggs” Brooks-Ruiz

A CONVERSATION WITH LOCAL CHEF “BLANCO BIGGS” ON CULTURE, THE CREATIVE PROCESS BEHIND NEW DISHES, AND HIS PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

CONVERSATION BY: KYLIE

PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN

REITZ

COOPER

FIRST, TELL ME A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND HOW YOU ULTIMATELY DECIDED TO BECOME A CHEF.

I was born into the love of and for food and the creative process behind it. My Mama Grande (Big Grandma) was a well-known caterer, also known as the Tamale Diva, Cookie Lady, and Pioneer of the Sandwichon in The Valley. Aside from that, every Sunday all my tios, tias, primos, and familia would meet up for breakfast, dinner, cookouts, and games of Chalupa (Loteria).

MOST PEOPLE WILL PROBABLY RECOGNIZE YOU FROM YOUR TIME WITH ARTESANO AND THE INNOVATIVE DISHES YOU CREATED THERE. WHAT DOES YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS LOOK LIKE WHEN IT COMES TO FOOD?

It's pretty simple, yet awfully complicated. I take something familiar such as tacos or quesadillas and try to create new connections, paying homage to the originators and the humility behind what they created. Breathing new life into the ideas while keeping the same essence going.

WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FONDEST MEMORIES WHEN IT COMES TO FOOD?

The amazing, irreplaceable feeling of waking up to the smell of fresh tortillas and the many aromatics that fill the air at my abuelita’s house. It’s when I started making the connection of scents and flavors.

YOUR HERITAGE AND CULTURE ARE DEEPLY INTERTWINED INTO THE FOOD YOU CREATE. WOULD YOU SAY THAT IS THE CORNERSTONE BEHIND YOUR COOKING AND IF SO, WHY?

Oh, most definitely! I am the proud son, grandson, and great-grandson of Mexican immigrants, and the member of a proud Mexican-American familia. That entails so much. From religious beliefs [to] family values, humility, fellowship, cooking, community, and generosity, it all has helped shape and mold so much of what I do and the person that I have become.

YOU RECENTLY WERE APPROACHED TO PARTICIPATE IN A "SHARE A MEAL"

Three Staples: Onion, jalapeño, and lime are each key ingredients when it comes to Biggs’ cooking. These three simple ingredients can elevate any dish with bold flavors.

DISTINCTIVELY LOCAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES WITH UNMATCHED GLOBAL REACH

INITIATIVE WITH THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE. NOT ONLY DID YOU PREPARE MEALS ON YOUR DAY OFF, BUT YOU GAVE THEM THE MEALS AT NO COST. TELL ME ABOUT THAT EXPERIENCE AND WHY GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY IN SUCH A WAY IS IMPORTANT TO YOU.

My upbringing had so many great examples of hard work, dedication, humility, and generosity. I cannot ask to be blessed if I do not bless others or see others blessed first. It was a great honor and opportunity to be asked to help and, in a sense, have them at my table. It is such a great feeling!

NOW THAT YOU'RE NO LONGER WITH ARTESANO, HOW CAN PEOPLE STILL GET THEIR HANDS ON YOUR FOOD?

I am currently in the process of looking for a commissary kitchen to do meals and catering. I'm starting from zero once again, so it may take some time, but I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

WHAT IS YOUR ULTIMATE GOAL WHEN IT COMES TO CREATING A NEW DISH?

All I want is for those I serve to taste the passion, modesty, love, respect, and influence I have for my cultura, upbringing, and creations. To hear something familiar in terms of what it is called, somewhat unfamiliar in how it looks, but connecting them to something through how it smells and tastes.

PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?

Well the future is looking bright. My family and crew made genuine connections with the people we met and served when at Artesano. They could taste the love and humility in the food and service they were provided and it will be the cornerstone at my next venture: Taco Libre the Food Truck. The real flavor is in the culture, not a recipe, and you can taste it. God is great and he’s opened new doors. Everything is in the works to make this happen so be on the lookout. Same family, same crew, same passion. We want to earn your business, we don’t expect it. I’ve partnered up with another locally-owned staple of Corpus Christi, Murdy’s Public, where there will be outdoor covered seating or the option to take food to-go.

WHAT IS YOUR GO-TO TACO ORDER?

My to-go taco order consists of homemade corn tortillas with barbacoa, topped with an over-easy egg, onions, cilantro, sliced avocado, queso fresco, and an awesome salsa verde.

Contact: @_eltaqueroguerotx_

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Our company is a local independent company rooted in the community. We bring an authenticity, depth of knowledge, and array of community relationships that “Big Box” brands cannot match. Our services are distinctive, extensive, and tailored to you – with insight that will help you make smarter, better informed real estate decisions.

Take a bite of

TASTING GLOBAL CUISINE WITHOUT LEAVING THE COASTAL BEND

Ifyou’re anything like me, quarantine has probably given you a strong case of the travel bug. Night after night I find myself scrolling endlessly through social media and travel sites, yearning for foreign shores, west coast mountains, sights, sounds, and flavors from over the border and around the globe. So when The Bend asked me to eat my way through locally owned international restaurants and “travel the world” without ever leaving the Coastal Bend, I was ready.

This is the third big foodie article I’ve written for this magazine, and the experience has stood out to me not only for the breadth of culinary diversity I sampled, but also for the fact that I ate nearly every one of these meals directly from the styrofoam takeout containers they came in ... and every bite was still amazing. Writing this article during a pandemic reminded me how powerful food can be. It doesn’t just nourish us; it brings us together. It doesn’t just introduce us to new flavors; it introduces us to new histories and perspectives. This journey also made me realize just how impressive our culinary diversity is for a region whose biggest city has a population of just 350,000. We are honored – and a little bit spoiled – by the amount of talent international culinarians bring to our food scene. And whether we are ordering to-go or dining out, eating alone or with loved ones, good food is good food, and truly phenomenal food has the power to transport us anywhere.

1 Ninja Ramen

THAILAND & JAPAN

Slurping up my first taste of the restaurant’s signature dish – the Ninja Ramen – I relax into its warm flavors. Crispy, hand-cut fried chicken breast, spicy ground pork, bamboo shoots, corn, and egg sit atop a mountain of ramen noodles. Needless to say, this is not your college student’s ramen dinner. The soup itself is a pork bone broth with some sort of surprising, secret ingredient that lends it a delicious milkiness. The woman who holds that secret is owner Charoen Kaewmanorom, who graduated from Texas A&M Corpus Christi three years ago. A year and a half ago, Kaewmanorom decided to open her own restaurant inspired by the ramen and traditional Thai cuisine she experienced every time she visited her hometown in Thailand. With a little help from friends and family, Kaewmanorom brought Ninja Ramen to life, from drawing the plans to designing and painting the wall art to building her unique menu and keeping the books. Ninja Ramen is proof that, with a strong support team, you can do it all and make it taste amazing.

2033 AIRLINE RD #E5, 78412

2 Happy Tea

TAIWAN

Pop. Pop. Pop. Boba explode like tiny joy grenades as I drink them up through the straw of my Bubble Tea. Their tapioca consistency plays off the chill of the icy mango beverage. Cold, fruity, refreshing – it’s almost like this Taiwanese invention was engineered to help South Texans survive our long, humid summers. The beauty of this drink, as the menu at Happy Tea on Staples proves, is the near limitlessness of its flavor and texture combinations. From freshly brewed oolong over ice, to a frozen honeydew iced tea, to milk teas, and even customer creations, odds are you’ll find a Taiwanese-inspired treat you’ll love.

5433 S STAPLES ST #A, 78411

DAO Authentic Asian Cuisine

CHINA

Tucked away in a small strip mall across from the Corpus Christi Athletic Club, Yanyan He and Zhou Yong are serving up some of the best Chinese cuisine in the state. Yes, we know that’s a big claim, and we stand by it. Founding owners of Hunan Express, the pair opened Dao in 2018 with one specific goal in mind: to serve and showcase real Chinese food. As Yanyan explains, “there are eight major cuisines of Chinese culture.” The four major cuisines (Sichuan, Lu, Yue, and Su) originate in the earliest moments of Chinese history. Gradually, other local cuisines like Zhejian, Min, Xian, and Hui became equally popular, and the Eight Major Cuisines were solidified. Each style is definitively unique, built on highly involved preparations like cooking over intense heat or braising for hours and days. Each style boasts its distinct colors, aromas, flavors, and shapes. For Yanyan and Zhou, it’s important that these preparations be enjoyed in the context they were originally developed: with love for family and friends. Dive into this menu, but be sure to experience their famous peking duck, topnotch soup dumplings, crispy chicken, or dry-sauteed green beans.

2033 AIRLINE RD #G3, 78412

4 Vietnam Restaurant

VIETNAM

In Downtown Corpus Christi, Vietnam has earned a reputation for its luxurious, elegantly appointed atmosphere and richly flavorful dishes. Even when eaten in the significantly less luxurious setting of my living room, the food coming out of Vietnam’s kitchen still crushes it. I eat my Vegetarian Yellow Curry with fervor, devouring the braised tofu, zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms, then sopping up the bold ginger curry with rice so perfectly steamed it’s like they picked it out of a cloud instead of a rice field. Whether you’re staying in or venturing out to dine, a bowl of curry from Vietnam is a delicious way to experience Vietnamese cuisine right here in Corpus.

701 N WATER ST, 78401

5 Little Manila Lumpia House

PHILIPPINES

The first time I visited Little Manila Lumpia House in Flour Bluff marked the start of my addiction to lumpia and pancit, two canonical dishes in Filipino cuisine. On this final visit, however, I decide to try something new and order the Sinigang Soup without any context whatsoever. The first thing I need to note is that this single serving of soup comes in not one but two large takeaway bowls and lasts me a good three days despite eating it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Don’t judge – there are no rules in a pandemic. This traditional Filipino dish balances sour and savory flavours, most often built on tamarind or other fruits and leaves to lend that sourness. The heartiness of the soup comes from generous amounts of bone-in pork that falls off that very bone pretty much the second my spoon even looks at it. Throw in cabbage, green beans, onions, and tomatoes and you have a singularly unexpected fruity and sour elixir.

2124 WALDRON RD, 78418

photograph by LILLIAN REITZ

Dokyo Dauntaun

JAPAN &

KOREA

Anyone who’s dined at Dokyo knows it’s more than a meal. It’s an experience. From the lighting to the music, the projection art, and the craft cocktails, every detail has been meticulously and creatively designed by owner Kil Lee. Though this fine dining project got off the ground in 2018, it only opened its doors in February of 2020 – on the eve of a global pandemic. Nonetheless, Corpus Christi has responded with voracious excitement. Dokyo is the place to dine. And honestly, the restaurant couldn’t have opened at a better time, in our opinion. As Lee explains, “Dokyo means embracing different cultures and ideas and merging them to create harmony. I think the meaning comes at a very pivotal time in America when a lot of these things are at debate.” Personally, we find peace in the experience of Dokyo’s Kalbi Diamond Style marinated long bone ribs and Geisha cocktail. And we think you will, too.

424 N CHAPARRAL ST, 78401

7 Big Bowl Korean BBQ

KOREA

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Big Bowl is one to watch. Since it opened, this Korean restaurant has thrived on to-go orders, and they’ve experienced a boom during the pandemic, often closing their kitchen earlier than usual due to the high volume of orders. We’re not surprised. With a menu built almost exclusively on bulgogi (beef bulgogi, chicken bulgogi, pork bulgogi, spicy pork bulgogi ... you get it), the team at Big Bowl has mastered the art of this “fire meat.” It might be a sin to say this in Texas, but if Big Bowl took their dishes to a barbeque competition, they might very well come home with the gold.

6410 WEBER RD #19, 78413

Immersive Dining: Dokyo Dauntaun’s creative approach to fine dining brings a new experience to the international dining scene in the Coastal Bend. The enveloping atmosphere transports guests into an immersive and sublime dining experience.

Venetian Hot Plate

Rounding the flower-lined patio of Venetian Hot Plate has me doing a double take – is this Port A or a small Italian mountain town? Inside, the scents and flavors of the Mediterranean’s pasta and seafood epicenter bring my Italian teleportation fantasy to life. Racks of carefully curated imported wines frame the bar, hand-painted dishes decorate the walls, and waiting for me at a high top table is owner Linda Haliou.

Born and raised in her family’s restaurant business in Venice, Haliou moved to the United States after falling in love with an Italian-American chef named Maurizio. After marrying and spending a few years in Pennsylvania, the couple purchased Venetian Hot Plate restaurant in Port Aransas just over 25 years ago. “We thought it would be like Maui,” she remembers, laughing. “It definitely wasn’t, even then. But there was something captivating about this island, something funky ... you could tell it was a real deal community.” They loved the island and it has certainly loved them back. Year after year, locals and tourists alike return for Maurizio and Linda’s traditional recipes – the same recipes they would cook with at home. As the Coastal Bend has grown and developed, access to ingredients has only improved. “I remember the first time we told our supplier we needed basil, he asked us how to spell it. He didn’t know what it was.”

Maurizio passed several years ago, but Linda continues to keep their recipes and passion for food alive. “We do it our way,” she says. “As Italian as we can thousands of miles from Italy.”

So, what does Haliou’s way look like? Well, for starters, there’s a lot of fish. Italy and Port Aransas have that in common. Haliou is a firm believer in respecting the classics but still allowing her chefs to get creative. While some dishes have been on the menu since Day One, others rotate out every few months. You can’t go wrong with the Chicken Scallopini, Linguini Golfo, or Spaghetti Pescatora. You can’t go wrong with any of it. Haliou suggests I start off with the Caesar salad, which goes perfectly with fresh bread and the house’s sweet and spicy olive oil with a balsamic reduction. For an entree, I indulge in a bowl of Tortellini Linda: hand-made tortellini with walnuts in a creamy alfredo sauce. “It’s dedicated to me,” Haliou says, “because it has nuts in it and my husband always said I was nuts.”

232 BEACH ST, PORT ARANSAS, TX 78373

ever

We profiled this

almost 6 years ago, and can still taste the yellow corn grilled polenta topped with pesto, roasted tomatoes, garlic, Romano cheese, and crispy Prosciutto di Parma like it was yesterday.

Archived Dish: The Polenta Nacho dish is hands down one of the best creations we’ve

experienced.

dish

Order Up: No matter what you think you might be in the mood for upon entering Eirini’s, make sure to ask for the special of the day before placing your order. With a rotating list of both classics and innovative dishes, ordering the special of the day will never steer you wrong.

10 Erini's Gyros & More

GREECE

There’s something about a traditional, unadulterated lamb gyro that feeds the soul. That balance of slow-grilled, thinly sliced lamb on a lightly toasted, homemade pita simultaneously transports you and makes you feel right at home. Eirini’s seems to have harnessed the power of the lamb-stuffed pita, because they continue to be one of Corpus Christi’s favorite spots for a quick lunch or casual dinner. From the slightly hokey but ultimately charming grecian fountain on the front patio to the speakers flooding the streets with traditional Greek music, this little family-owned joint on

9 Dragonfly FRANCE

The brains and fry pans behind this vibrant French bistro belong to owner Dominque Cordier and her chef, Cole Tucker. Cordier, who has traveled the world feeding a global table, serves up a menu that in itself is a “world tour.” Her formal French training, however, remains a strong cornerstone. The first thing I see when I enter this Padre Island classic is the sign. “Live like a Dragonfly. You only have 24 hours to live.” Well then, I will have the creme brulee, thank you very much. One gentle thwack of my spoon against that crystalized crust and I’m a believer. Silky, rich interior, with each bite a crackling fireworks show on my tongue – I don’t care what purists say; I argue that some of the world’s best creme brulee is born right here on tiny Padre Island in South Texas.

14701 S PADRE ISLAND DR, 78418

11 Gasthaus Berliner Bear

While San Antonio and New Braunfels might be more renowned for German history and food, there’s a surprising little joint in Beeville that has stolen our hearts. Gasthaus Berliner Bear on North Saint Mary’s street is admittedly a bit of a drive from most Coastal Bend neighborhoods, but it’s a drive well worth making. Even on a Thursday during a pandemic, there are plenty of full tables at this gingerbread-style restaurant; a good sign. Owner Gabi is bustling from the kitchen to the register to the tables, serving up dishes that waft and beckon. “What’s good here?” an older gentleman asks of a 20-something at the table beside him. “Dude, literally everything,” he responds. And if the goulash and spaetzle I order is any indication, he’s absolutely right. The recipe for this goulash was handed down to Gabi’s husband by his grandmother, and hasn’t changed much over the generations. The smell alone makes my knees weak. The taste destroys me. Tender pork and beef melt in my mouth while buttery, simply-seasoned spaetzle triggers some kind of dopamine reaction in my brain. This taste of Germany just earned a spot at the top of the Coastal Bend bucket list.

2510 N SAINT MARYS ST, BEEVILLE, TX 78102

12

Fulton

Irish Pub

IRELAND

For a seaside bar where you can raise a glass and sing, the Fulton Irish Pub is unmatched. This source for flavors of Ireland is owned by Texans Kevin Doran and Monica Baker. Born into an Irish family, Monica has worked for years as a Registered Nurse, but dreamed of opening a pub that echoed the character of the pubs her family frequents in Ireland. To make her dream a reality, she brought in executive chef and consultant Michael Welch. Having studied at La Varenne Ecole De Cuisine in Paris and trained alongside Michelin-starred chefs, he was just the right man for the job.

Armed with his arsenal of culinary know-how and detailed correspondence with Monica’s family in Ireland, Welch has worked ceaselessly to bring Texans a traditional Irish pub with American flair. A cornerstone of Irish fare is locally sourced ingredients, which Welch prioritizes as much as he can. And if he can’t find something locally – like corned beef – he

makes it himself. “I call it refined comfort food,” he says. Built on traditional flavors and styles, but identifiably Texan.

It’s that blend of old and new that makes the pub stand out, down to the building layout. Welch shares the origin story of the expansive bartop, the middle portion of which was brought down to Rockport from a traditional Irish pub in Boston. They built the entire bar around this one slab of stained, worn wood, reviving its history and adding their own.

Though significantly warmer than Ireland, Rockport nonetheless shares the island’s seaside village feel, and the pub offers an unbeatable view of the water. Whether you’re meeting friends for drinks or digging into a plate of fresh fish and chips after a day out on the boat, the Fulton Irish Pub brings the nostalgia of a traditional pub to our Gulf Coast shores.

301 N FULTON BEACH RD, FULTON, TX 78358

Sufi Kabob

PAKISTAN & IRAN

If you’re craving Middle Eastern food but aren’t sure what type, exactly, pop by Sufi Kabob, where the entire expanse of the Middle East region is at your fingertips. From Pakistani and Persian to Indian and even Halal, this menu offers casual eats for every palate. What started in 2018 as a concept project to contribute to the culinary diversity of the community has quickly grown into the Bay Area’s go-to casual eats and take-out option. For owner Aman Ullah, offering Zabiha-Halal options for a community without any was important, and he hired chef Nicolas Solis to make it happen. First-time diners can’t go wrong with the Sufi Trio Platter, a skewer each of lamb, beef, and chicken, paired with a salad, house tzatziki sauce, rice, and naan that’s baked onsite in a traditional clay oven.

7150 S PADRE ISLAND DR SUITE 104, 78412

Ara's Steak & Seafood

ROMANIA, POLAND, & SOUTH AFRICA

Ever since Ara Babos’ childhood in Ro mania, her family, and her grandmother in particular, instilled in her a passion for bringing people together through meals. She has traveled the world, working with master chefs across Eu rope and North Africa, and everywhere she saw diversity, but also unity. “Our world is as unique as each one of us,” she says, “and what better way to unite cultures than through food?”

Eventually Babos found her way to Corpus Christi, and in 2013 she opened Ara’s Midtown Cafe on Staples Street. Corpus’s culinary scene hadn’t yet experienced its diversity boom, and the restaurant was, in her own words, “an experiment” to see how her European dishes would fare in the coastal Texas community. Bringing dishes from Europe, North Africa, and her own family’s recipe box, Babos quickly won the hearts of diners across the Coastal Bend – in 2017, she moved her business to a larger facility. Draped in warm, rich hues, the restaurant welcomes you into its expansive dining room. To the right, two beautifully carved bars boast shelves of every bottle imaginable –this is a place you can settle into. The restaurant also features two formal banquet halls, where Babos often caters for business events and private parties.

Mirroring this beautiful space is her beautiful cooking. I start with Pierogis – the perfect Polish comfort food. Pan seared and topped with gorgeous caramelized onions and dill, these lightly browned dumplings combine sweet and savory in every bite. Babos keeps her menu moving, though, and she often brings in new dishes based on avail-

ability. For example, she’s not afraid to flavor Shrimp Mozambique (a South African dish) with the elusive Moroccan harissa, marrying continents and cultures right here in her Corpus kitchen. A true world tour.

This writer and food enthusiast will offer one more note on this multicultural menu: Do not overlook Ara’s Hot Bacon Dressing. During our visit, Babos brings me a sample in a small bowl with sliced French bread on the side. Curiously, I dip the bread in the hot, brown dressing. The rich balsamic reduction accented with bacon lingers on my tongue, sweet and complex. I abandon the bread and dig up a spoonful. The bartenders laugh and say, “I know, right?” Holy pierogi, this is insane. While the dressing is intended for Ara’s Florentine Salad, which features a mix of spinach and cranberries, I’d argue also deserves to be on burgers, steaks, ice cream. “Ara,” I ask, “have you tried this on ice cream?” She has, actually. I knew I liked this woman. Fortunately for all of us, she is currently looking into the possibility of selling her Hot Bacon Dressing by the bottle, and I am here to tell you to Line. Up. Now.

6917 S STAPLES ST, 78413

Ara’s poultry, fowl, and beef are actually all locally-sourced from Texas ranches. The restaurant requires their purveyors to provide them with non-GMO, non-steroidal products. This allows each dish to not only taste divine, but keep the patron’s well-being in mind. Photo taken from Ara's website.

15 Pavani Express

There must be some unwritten rule that says the best food is made in the back of gas stations. This small but mighty family-owned restaurant has long been a favorite among Corpus Christians in the know, and I am still kicking myself for being out of the loop for so long. One spoonful of the Goat Korma and I was overwhelmed. Goat and vegetables braised in yogurt and stock, thickened with rich Indian spices ... I nearly had an out-of-body experience in the back of a CITGO. Pair it with the popular Masala Dosa, a spongy breakfast dish of rice and lentils and filled with potatoes and curry leaves, and you have a feast fit for royalty. On the side, Garlic Naan (of course), but might I also suggest the dangerous phenomenon they call Cheesy Naan and that pretty much ruined me for all future naans. Please, for your own good, drop this magazine and go line up outside their door – you owe it to yourself.

THAILAND

The Coastal Bend is blessed with a strong Thai food scene, so if you’ve missed one of the many Thai restaurants in the area, don’t beat yourself up ... but be sure to get on that pronto. You don’t want to miss a single one – especially not Thai Spice. Located in Downtown Corpus on Water Street, this cozy restaurant boasts traditional Thai fare courtesy of husband and wife team Paul and Pennee Chanyaman. You can’t go wrong with a single dish from their menu, but what we love most about Thai Spice is their Mango Sticky Rice. For centuries, Mango Sticky Rice – most often made with glutinous rice, mango, and coconut milk – has been a staple on the Thai restaurant dessert menu. Thai Spice, however, takes the road less traveled, replacing the glutinous rice with Thai black sticky rice, which, when combined with the coconut milk, turns a beautiful hue of purple. Simple yet delightful, this dish alone brings us back to Thai Spice again and again.

523 N WATER ST, 78401 16

17 Kuzina Lebanese Grill

LEBANON

It never ceases to amaze me that so many uniquely qualified humans find their way to our little sparkling city by the sea and decide to share their talents with our community. Take Zhouhair Backnak, the head chef of Kuzina Lebanese Grill, for instance. Before moving to the United States in 2004, he completed his cooking diploma in the Phoenician city of Sidon in Lebanon and worked in various restaurants in Lebanon and Dubai, perfecting the art of Eastern culinary preparation.

When he started working at Kuzina, he was just a cook. Four years in that position taught him a lot about the U.S. food business, but he couldn’t help but feel something was missing, something he calls “the opportunity for self-realization.” Taking his culinary future into his own hands, Zouhair (or Zou-Zou, as many call him) purchased Kuzina in 2015 and converted it into his own family business. Today he and his wife Dadoo run the business themselves, and they practice the food philosophy of, “If we don’t eat it, we don’t serve it.” This philosophy is in everything they do. “If I don’t eat with plastic cutlery,” Backnak says, “I never serve food with plastic cutlery.” As a couple and restaurateurs, they serve diners as if they are guests in their own home.

Per Backnak’s recommendation, I order a Mix Platter Appetizer for take-out, with a side of Kibbeh Balls. (Pro tip: six Kibbeh Balls is way too ambitious for two people; apparently they’re the size of meatballs, not protein bites.) This gorgeously plated platter is perfect for sharing with friends or a casual snacky date night. Featuring some of Lebanon’s most popular appetizers like tabbouleh, hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, and dolma, this dish is pretty much my idea of heaven in edible form. A transportation across oceans to a Lebanese seaside cafe. Forks not necessary; scoop up the tabbouleh with the pita, top the falafel with hummus, and enjoy.

3801 SARATOGA BLVD STE 113, 78415

18 Middle Eastern Market

INDIA & IRAN

Don’t be confused by the two front doors to Mid dle Eastern Market on Everhart. If you’re looking for a quick snack or a soda, use the door on the left – that will take you to the small bodega. But if you’re looking for a fresh meal that will blow you out of the water, you better take the door on the right. When I first walk in, I have no idea what to expect from this family-owned, cafeteria-style eatery. The young man at the register sees me eyeing the sign that reads, “Today’s Special: But ter Chicken,” and says, “Do it. You won’t regret it.” Regret is the last thing on my mind when I bite into the chicken, made ultra-tender by the tandoor. A velvety tomato, butter, and cream sauce complements a symphony of subtly fiery Indian spices, some familiar, some new.

5405 EVERHART RD, 78411

Pro Tip: Skip the grocery list and spend an hour or so browsing through the aisles of the Middle Eastern Market the next time you’re shopping for food. You’ll find a plethora of fresh produce, spices, and more.

19 Ginger Cafe

INDIA, GREECE, TURKEY, & IRAN

Inspired by the travels of brothers Jordan and Ramsey, the menu at Ginger Cafe takes you all around the world, to India, Greece, Turkey, Iran and more. While some dishes remain true to their roots, others combine flavor and preparations from multiple countries to offer you an entire continent on a plate. First-timers should try the Kefta Kababs Koobideh, grilled Angus beef over red rice with Persian spices and the brothers’ signature tzatziki sauce. Kefta is simply ground meat mixed with onions and spices, somewhere in the meatball and meatloaf family. The truly indulgent diner may opt for the Lamb Shank, while the snackier among us might enjoy making a meal of the Hummus and Falafel appetizer platters.

7009 S STAPLES ST, 78413

20 Costa Sur

One bite of the Pescadores De La Panca and I have to ask: Is there anything Chef Nick of Costa Sur can’t do? Sure, we all know he's the king of ceviche, bringing Peruvian cuisine to coastal Texas with plenty of modern flair. But, holy ceviche! Hand this man a fish and any way he prepares it will be magic on your plate. I chose the Pescadores de la Panca to commemorate my last meal at Costa Sur before moving away from South Texas, and I’m relieved I didn’t miss out. The featured ingredient in the dish is the fish of the day (tuna, in this case) bedded on rice and topped with artfully pickled onions. The heartiness of the rice and tuna is perfectly balanced by the light fruitiness of the sauce and that signature Costa Sur crunch courtesy of the canchita, or Peruvian corn nuts. Seriously, infuriatingly good.

15113 S PADRE ISLAND DR #101, 78418

21 Ora's Kitchen

VENEZUELA

It’s not easy being a tiny Venezuelan restaurant in a region filled with so many beloved Latin-American spots. But Ora’s Kitchen is the real deal, bringing the richly flavored finger food of the Venezuelan oil fields to the coastal oil community of Corpus Christi. While Ora has opted to keep her dining room closed for the duration of the pandemic, her menu of signature Venezuelan dishes – the carne mechada arepas, the queso blanco tequenos – has kept this hidden gem busier than ever with non-stop to-go orders. That tells you something right there. Among our favorite of Ora’s dishes are her handmade arepas (eat your heart out with the shredded pork, black beans, and plantains) and the cachapa, a corn batter pancake stuffed and topped with queso a mano, a handmade cheese. For dessert: a flan you’ll never forget, or perhaps a glass of chica de arroz, a sweet, milky rice drink that’s sprinkled with cinnamon and perfect on any hot Texas day.

5433 S STAPLES ST #1, 78411

22 El Bodegon Cubano

CUBA

The road to El Bodegon may be called Main Street, but this tiny to-go only “tavern” nonetheless feels a bit off the beaten path. The relatively new Ingleside eatery looks more like an old gas station than one of the best foodie finds in South Texas. But that’s exactly what it is – one of the Best. Foodie. Finds. A limited but powerful menu offers guests their choice of rice, protein, vegetables, and sauce from a line of metal catering pans over heat. I opt for the fried pork and bananas over black beans and rice. Cue my mouth, brain, and soul immediately and simultaneously exploding. These flavors and textures are music, history, and geography on my tongue ... in a word, synesthesia.The biggest surprise of the meal comes from the fried bananas. Their savory outer crust give way to the soft, sweet interior all in one bite. Simple ingredients don’t mean simple flavors when they’re cooked in a Cuban kitchen, and I want to consume them all until they replace the blood in my veins.

2621 MAIN ST, INGLESIDE, TX 78362

23 To-Ce-Chi Antojitos Mexicanos

MEXICO

When it comes to family-owned restaurant To-Ce-Chi Antojitos Mexicanos, a genuine and authentic Mexican dining experience is the only thing on the menu. Tucked into the Hamlin Shopping Center, upon entering this local spot guests are greeted by a burst of color and culture. With the plethora of TexMex options in our area, To-Ce-Chi brings a refreshing take on authentic Central Mexican cuisine with dishes like El Zarape and Sopes.

4028 WEBER RD, 78411

Two weeks and ten pounds later, I have traveled the world without ever leaving the Coastal Bend. From well-known popular favorites to hidden finds, our city by the sea boasts a remarkable richness of culinary diversity, bringing flavors and ideas from around the world. From Ora’s Kitchen to Pavani Express, we are, in fact, pretty spoiled. You just have to know where to look. So please, drop this magazine and get out there – line up outside your nearest World Eats restaurant and order yourself a feast. Explore. Let the meal take you somewhere you’ve never been before, because you deserve it.

TABLE IT

PLACE SETTINGS FOUR WAYS

The talented women behind each of our Spaces sections were tasked with creating a fabulous table setting, utilizing locally-sourced materials, for this holiday season. Jo Anne Howell, Katy Jones-Gulsby, Terrie Moore, and Monica Benavidez share their top tablescape tips to help you achieve picture-worthy settings, no matter your style.

by: Lillian Reitz

Photography

Jo Anne Howell - The Entertainer

Tip 1 : Serve Thanksgiving dinner on white plates to enjoy the vibrant colors of the meal. The white serves as a crisp backdrop for your fall harvest. Tip 2 : Placing menus on each plate with the added touch of your guests' names helps to create a memory on its own. Tip 3 : Always set your holiday table the night, if not days, before your meal. This helps with time management the day of and allows you to focus on the cooking.

Katy Jones-Gulsby - The Time Traveler Tip 1 : In my tablescapes, textiles are often the stars of the show. Contrasting patterns and textures bring a layered look and visual interest to the table. I love a patterned tablecloth! Tip 2 : Don't be afraid to mix patterns of china or types of glassware! Keeping the colors similar helps to keep a cohesive look, but mixing it up can be key to a fun table. Tip 3 : Throw all of the rules out of the window. There are a million "table setting" rules, but doing what feels right for your family or event is always the right way to go.

Terrie Moore - The Taste Maker Tip 1 : Shop your home. Thanksgiving may look different this year, so using what you already own feels comforting and right. Just like a new pair of earrings can jazz up an older outfit, new napkins or salad plates can bring that same freshness to your table. Tip 2 : Splurge on beautiful plants that can be enjoyed for months. Have the same plant delivered to those family members who won't be gathering to share the vibe or surprise your guests and have them take one home. Tip 3 : Remember it's not about the food or the decor, it's about gathering and giving thanks. Don't stress. Have fun. When we think about the ones who won't be joining us, it's ok if this year sharing pb&j on a paper plate is all you want to do. Number one rule: there are no rules.

Monica Benavidez - The Unconventionalist Tip 1 : Splurge on flowers for your Thanksgiving table and then enjoy them as you put up the tree over the weekend. While you're at it, splurge on good wine, too. Tip 2 : Mix and match your dinnerware/china. It keeps things interesting and you can have fun with it to create a gorgeous and memorable tablescape. Tip 3 : Incorporate mercury glass candles into your setting. The soft candle glow will look so much better. The light reflects more and it adds some sparkle to your table. Remember to use unscented candles to not take away from the culinary experience.

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NATURE’S CURRENCY

HEALTH IS WEALTH AT TERRA MADRE MINI FARM

BY: KIRBY TELLO PHOTOS BY: AARON GARCIA

Jamie Gusto was planting spinach when he answered the telephone. From the other end, I asked if it was an okay time to chat, concerned about disrupting his planting process. “I am just planting spinach,” he said. “I can talk, too.” As the founder and owner of Terra Madre Mini Farm, Gusto is living proof that for small business owners, the work never stops. It is his passion for cultivating produce and sharing what he grows with the community that makes it a labor of love.

As you’d expect from the “mini,” Terra Madre is not a full-fledged farm. Instead, it is a largescale garden where Gusto tends and develops the earth. Stemming from his personal ideology pushing back on fast food culture and taking the time to slow down and enjoy what we eat, Gusto was drawn to a certain “soul food movement” that started in Italy some years ago. The movement mirrored his mantra of eating slower, eating healthier, and choosing foods that are good for the body. This new way of approaching wellness proved not only to better the health of individuals, but its larger effect wound up being the benefits for Terra Madre, Italian for “mother earth.” Gusto was immediately drawn to the movement and the phrase, which ultimately became the name of his business and the driving force behind his way of life.

The land is a rented space that he sought out after he outgrew his backyard garden. “I wanted to expand and start selling at the local farmers’ markets,” explains Gusto. “As I began connecting with the farmers’ markets, the idea of gardening as a business started to change.” This opened up opportunities for him to grow more and sell more, and also created the space for Gusto to share his devotion and philosophy on healthy eating with others.

Being a small-scale farmer off and on for over 14 years, Gusto has been on the front lines of advocacy for a shift in how people approach food and how certain foods not only affect one’s body, but also the planet. “We get a lot of criticism about the food culture we have,” Gusto says regarding the perception of South Texas. “We have problems with learning how to scale down [portion size] and change the types of food that make it on the plate.”

Shop the Farm: Saturdays, 9:00 am to sell out (year-round) at the Southside Farmer's Market and Wednesdays, 4:30-6:30 pm (year-round) at the Downtown Farmer's Market.

But the consumption habits of our local residents make up just one side of the issue. Gusto explains that while he used to spend a lot of energy encouraging others to consider a plant-based diet (or just to increase the amount of fresh produce as a starting point), his focus has shifted to agricultural practices and how they affect existing cultivation practices – and in turn, what that means for the planet in future generations. “It has become the impact of the agricultural practices as we know them that are a bigger deal even than our individual health.”

Gusto went on to explain how lasting pos itive change starts with local farmers and their commitment to sustainable farming practices. At the same time, he has noticed that people do in fact seem to grasp the is sue of bad eating culture and how diet can either tremendously help or hurt certain health conditions.

That sense of concern has sparked atten dance at local farmers’ markets. Even if the general public doesn’t feel as deeply con nected to healthy eating as he does, Gusto says the demand for fresh, local produce is gaining traction, and that alone indicates that the needle is moving.

“Your health is your wealth and your wealth is the health of the planet,” Gusto as serts, a mantra of his for many years. If you look at health as currency – with healthy consumption choices adding to the planet’s bank and bad health habits subtracting from it – each of us holds the opportunity to contribute to the betterment of Terra Madre or mother earth.

Contact:

Terra Madre Mini Farm on Facebook Booths at Downtown & Southside Farmers Market

JENNIFER NESMITH'S

WELLNESS TIPS go-to

As I’ve grown out of the early stages of motherhood and now have a little more time on my hands, I’ve become a huge fan of taking care of myself.

Topping my self-care list: exercise. For the last 7 years, I’ve started my weekdays by waking up before my kids to exercise. Exercise is my unprescribed medication and helps keep me sane. In the gym (and on the dance floor) is where I turn into a unicorn. I take all my aggression out on the treadmill and rower and feel a million times better about life, after. Added bonus; my kids get the very best of me when they first wake up.

Another top self-care priority: sleep. I literally can’t be a kind and compassionate human being without sleep. A minimum 7 hours of sleep every night gives me life.

A few other practices I've picked up recently are meditation and yoga. Kundalini, Buti, Vin Yin, and Restorative Yoga are all differ ent types of yoga that have given me the space to heal mentally and emotionally. Akasha and Waterdog Yoga are two of my favorite lo cal spots to practice yoga and meditation.

In addition to the aforementioned, daily prayer and my devotional is a must as they both help me maintain a deep sense of gratitude and peace every day of my life. When all these things are in order, I feel limitless and unstoppable.

To all the new and seasoned mamas, there is nothing like taking a moment to yourself before your kids wake up. Even if you don’t exercise, wake up before they do and enjoy the peace and quiet and see how much better you are because of it. It’s life-changing.

While beauty products are fun and of great importance to me, when my soul, my head and my heart are unsettled, I.just.can’t. I can’t be a good mom, a good friend, or a good human. This is why my moments of self-care are a must. Once you check the mind, body, soul box ... bring on all of the beauty products.

There’s so much out there, how in the world are we supposed to choose just a few things that work for our skin/hair type? Well, you’re in for a treat: I’ve found a few things that have worked for me and I hope you can find use in them, too.

Supergoop Glow Screen is a tinted sunscreen that leaves behind a subtle and lightweight iridescent glow. Vegan and cruelty-free, Supergoop is a hybrid illuminator/sunscreen and primer that leaves your skin looking dewy

This vitamin C serum leaves my skin looking and feeling both smooth and hydrated. After using this product for some time, my skin tone appears more even and my fine lines are not as noticeable. A little of this stuff goes a long way! I highly encourage using this

HOME & GARDEN

CASITA ON THE COAST

BY: JACQUELINE GONZALEZ

Near the velvety sand and the crashing waves of the Port Aransas beaches sits a unique beachfront community of homes called Cinnamon Shore. The community features classic architecture with clean lines, crisp coastal colors, and the perfect gathering spaces. In fact, this place is so perfect that a San Antonio-based family, Sherri and Brandon Carter, chose to purchase a vacation home to stay connected with the Coastal Bend.

The Carters had been visiting Port Aransas for many years with their three children, and in 2019, they made their dream of owning a home on Cinnamon Shore a reality. Their home, Coastal Casa, is a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom, 2-story townhome. It’s one of the eight-unit townhomes in Tradewinds Outpost, a townhome building located on the main circle. As an added bonus, their unit is located at the end of the building, which offers a great view of the ocean from the balcony.

When they began the process of acquiring their vacation home, they fell in love with the design in the realty office at Cinnamon Shore. When the Carters caught sight of it, they knew this was the perfect look that they wanted their home to reflect. They got in touch with the designer, Courtney Rangel, to begin the process of transforming Coastal Casa into the playful, beachfront home of their dreams.

Rangel played a major role in the entire process for the Carters. In addition to designing the Tradewinds Outpost building, she had also worked together with the architect to add the finishing touches with furniture and upholstery, so it was only perfect that the Carters hired her to achieve the best coastal-inspired design to infuse their space with that beachy, vacation-vibe feeling.

Along with the aesthetically pleasing stone exterior, the entrance to the home is filled with natural light and understated elegance, making the perfect backdrop for the playful, happy design that the Carters sought. Instead of overpowering the area with busy fabrics, the custom upholstery and drapery by Cathy Aiton presents the right amount of statement pieces that add fun and playful designs to an otherwise subdued and neutral color palette. As Courtney reflects on her masterpiece, she says that what truly makes the area pop is the design on the upholstery – “it’s the bang and happiness in the home!” The combination of the neutral color palette and the pops of coral and variety of blue hues provides an air of peace, calmness, and carefree fun that is reminiscent of being out by the ocean.

PHOTOS BY: JASON PAGE

THE COMBINATION OF BOLD FABRICS AND COASTAL COLORS EVOKES HAPPINESS AND VACATION FUN

Kenneth Gonzales D.D.S.,

Heather L. Gonzalez,

Rangel opted for a console table and added a custom Schumacher skirt to add flair to the space and greet guests cheerfully as they walk upstairs

Available at Gatherings Nov. 27-Dec. 8

3744 S. Alameda St. Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Phone: 361-225-3744

Facebook: Gatherings/giftbox

Instagram: gatherings_giftbox

The townhome offers a smaller space, but instead of limiting the options available to achieve the Carters’ desired style, Rangel focused on maximizing space by selecting the right furniture and layout. The living room and kitchen are in a shared space, so in order to satisfy Sherri’s desire for a gathering space that would seat a larger crowd, Rangel opted for a big sectional from Chic to Chic in lieu of placing several chairs in the area. The sectional allows more people to sit comfortably and offers extra wiggle room.

The unit did not have a kitchen island, which Sherri was hoping for, so Rangel chose a dining room table that would double as an island. On the kitchen side of the large wood dining table are small custom stools made by Ballard Designs that neatly tuck underneath the table, allowing Sherri to use the table as a food prep area. As an added option, the stools can be pulled out to seat an additional four people on that side of the table. On the opposite side, there are four upholstered chairs, also by Ballard Designs, in the same blue and white patterns used throughout the home. As a finishing touch, a shiplap wall ties the shared space together with a nod to the beachy, coastal-inspired décor.

The hallway upstairs was wider than usual, but not wide enough to provide a seating area. Instead, Rangel opted for a console table and added a custom Schumacher skirt to add flair to the space and greet guests cheerfully as they walk upstairs.

Whether guests are spending time inside or out enjoying the beach and amenities on Cinnamon Shore, everyone is guaranteed to have a great and relaxing time.

GROWING UP

Plant in full sun in earliest November. Grow only in well-drained, heavily composted soil. Mix six cups pastured poultry manure and two cups homemade wood ash into the soil per plant –cabbages are heavy feeders. Water deeply and infrequently; keep soil slightly moist. Plant dill, thyme, and sage near cabbages to prevent cabbage moth pests. Harvest when tight heads form by clipping plant at the lower stem. Wrap the head in the large leaves at the base of the plant to transport or store.

PROFILING

“Early” versus “late” are terms used in northern gardens with cold winters. Up north, cabbages are planted at the end of winter. Early cabbages mature quickly, have small heads, and split at the first sign of heat. Late cabbages mature later, have large heads, and can take some (northern) summer heat. In the Coastal Bend, cabbages must be planted in the fall and harvested during winter, or they will either bolt or split. To extend harvest, plant some early and some late varieties.

the SweetnessSurprising of Cabbage

BY: JUSTIN BUTTS

PHOTO BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

When celebrated plein-air painter Carol Koutnik visited our farm, she thought the most gorgeous vegetables in the garden were the cabbages. She went on to produce the critically-acclaimed exhibit “The Fantastic Garden,” with cabbages as the star of the show.

Cabbages are indeed gorgeous plants with their sensual contours and tight hearts of folded leaves. They are also loaded with vitamins and minerals. And best of all, freshly harvested cabbages are exquisitely delicious.

Here are our favorite cabbage varieties for the Coastal Bend:

Early Jersey Wakefield

70 days to maturity. Space 18”. Tight, small head, about two pounds. Large leaves at base can be used to wrap cabbage for storage. Sweet, flavorful, best-tasting of all. Best early variety. An heirloom, grown since the 1840s.

Late Flat Dutch

100 days to maturity. Space 24”. Huge head, 10 to 15 pounds. Robust, wonderful flavor. Best late variety. Keeps well for months if wrapped in base leaves and stored in cold, dry place. Since 1860s.

Golden Acre

65 days to maturity. Space 15”. Head is three to five pounds. Compact heads allow closer spacing. Fastest to maturity. Nice flavor. Since 1920s.

All Seasons

87 days to maturity. Space 20”. Head is 11 to 14 pounds. Good flavor. Most heat tolerant variety. A good cabbage for Coastal Bend gardens, where winters can be short and unexpectedly warm.

Copenhagen

66 days to maturity. Space 18”. Head is five to eight pounds. Great flavor. Compact heads. Good market variety for small-scale farmers. Since early 1900s.

Ruby Perfection

80 days to maturity. Space 15”. Head is four to six pounds. Gorgeous red cabbage. Beautiful in any dish. Flavor not as good as the green varieties, but acceptable. This is the only hybrid cabbage on our list.

LOCAL RECS

Cabbage can be served warm or cold; cooked or uncooked. When it comes to cabbage, its culinary options are endless. Three varieties that are locally grown are: Red cabbage, Napa cabbage, and green cabbage. Red cabbage is typically used for its color, adding a nice pop to any dish. Napa cabbage is great for wraps due to its mild taste and large green leaves. Green cabbage, the more common, lends itself to great soups and sides.

- Joel Trevino, Dagon Produce, @dagoncctx

FUN FACTS

Cabbages were the most frequently sold vegetable at markets in Colonial America. Every farmer near a city grew this cash crop to sell in town. The best farmers were the Pennsylvania Dutch. These so-called Dutch farmers were immigrants and their descendants from Germany (Deutsche was misunderstood as Dutch). The best farmers of all were the Amish, who had fled religious persecution in Germany and come to America seeking freedom of worship. The Amish of Pennsylvania are still among the best farmers in America.

Distinctive Landscapes Start Here...

DISPLAYING YOUR COLLECTION

• Repetition pleases the eye, so try to use your cabinet to display a collection of items that have a similar visual signature. These Nemadji pottery pieces are of varying shapes, but each one has a similar style of decoration.

•

Books with graphic spines are a great way to play with height. Stack them under smaller items and to fill in blank spots.

•

Small framed pieces of art or photographs work well in breaking up the negative space and adding visual interest. Think about the frame types -- glass and crystal will reflect light, while elegant black frames give a graphic interest.

•

Don’t be afraid to paint the inside of your cabinet! A surprise pop of color behind the glass doors of a china cabinet is one of the easiest ways to bring an on-trend color into your home. Think about the collections you want to display and choose a color that will contrast.

CABINET OF CURIOSITIES

BY: KATY JONES-GULSBY

PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

home and bring me joy. I display these collections on every available surface, but my favorite way to corral a collection is in a traditional china cabinet.

Wooden cabinets of varying styles have been popular since time immemorial, but the china

usual assortment of dinnerware is one I love.

get the look

Crystal Picture Frame

Coastal Closet

Ceramic Peace Sign

Chic to Chic

Vintage Handblown Glassware

and Vintage Decorative Items

Shell & Pine

Nemadji Pottery Vases

Author’s Personal Collection

OUT & ABOUT

Local shop La Casita de Barro specializes in authentic Talavera and Mexican pottery, offering a large selection of planters, dishes, ceramic animals, and more. We chat with owner Neyla Barajas to learn about the shop’s origin and inspirations.

DREAMS OFAMERICA

SAHERISH SURANI’S BOOK OFFERS PERSPECTIVES OF IMMIGRANTS AND FIRST-GENERATION AMERICANS

BY: LUIS ARJONA PHOTOS BY: RACHEL BENAVIDES

Have you ever had moments in life when you can have a chat with someone who makes you take a step back and leaves you inspired? Those moments are beautiful and humbling. Meeting people who go above and beyond by making the world a better, more aware place is a breath of fresh air.

I had the chance to speak with Saherish Surani. If the name sounds familiar, you may have seen the work she and her sisters do for the community under the company umbrella iConquer. The Surani sisters work to improve awareness of childhood obesity after Corpus Christi was named the "fattest" city in America. Their work is gauged towards teaching children, ranging from three to seven years old, about obesity, diabetes, and healthier habits. They have reached more 2,000 students, and hold events such as the Glow Run and Benefit Golf Tournaments around the Coastal Bend.

Saherish Surani graduated from Veterans Memorial High School in 2017, and is now completing her final year at Tufts University. During her junior year, Surani took on a project to

document and tell the stories of 10 undocumented and firstgeneration Americans in novel form. Titled The Stories of U.S., Surani gives her interviewees a voice and platform to be heard and share their experiences.

"The goal of the book [project] was to open my ears and learn and listen from the people who make up our community," Surani says. “I think that recently, with the media and the political climate we live in today, there are always headlines. Still, we don't see the people, the faces, or the stories behind those headlines. So, I wanted to make undocumented immigrants and first-generation Americans a little more human to the reader's eyes.”

Inspired by her parents' journey as they immigrated to the United States, Surani took it upon herself to interview 36 undocumented immigrants and first-generation Americans from several time zones. She made sure to be inclusive of different countries, backgrounds, ages, and circumstances to accurately provide a well-researched book that would shed

light on this topic. "Not all immigrants are from Latin America," says Surani. She made it a point to use this opportunity as a teaching moment and spread empathy and perspective.

Surani's “Aha Moment” came at a traffic stop. While in the car, she had the realization (that shows an enviable degree of empathy), “What would happen if any of us were undocumented?” The stop would become more than a routine warning and call for ICE involvement, which would upend their lives. Her concern for refugees and immigrants, paired with her encounter with law enforcement, led Surani to her newest project.

The Stories of U.S. was published by New Degree Press in December of 2019. The book was a #1 Bestseller (Emigration and Immigration category) and #1 New Release (in the Emigration and Immigration category and Children's Social Activists Biography category). Surani described the writing and publishing process as a whirlwind of work. She credits having a regular schedule and following a checklist to keep her on track and focused on her goals. Upon the release of her book, Surani was invited to the Seattle Public Library to promote her project.

In December 2020, look for the second edition of The Stories of U.S., released in hardcover with a new cover design, a guest introduction, and an extended chapter covering Surani's personal life a bit more. We are excited to see what the future has in store for Saherish Surani!

Contact:

@saherish | storiesofusbook.com

BEAUTY BLENDED WITH CULTURE

DELVE INTO MEXICAN POTTERY AT LA CASITA DE BARRO

BY: JESSIE CHROBOCINSKI PHOTOS BY: AARON GARCIA

Hand-painted ceramics that provide a timeless beauty, Mexican Talavera tiles will liven up any home through traditional design and color. Talavera is crafted with 16th century Spanish and Mexican ceramic techniques, uses all-natural materials, and follows a specific process from preparing the clay to the final glazing and firing stages. Corpus Christi’s La Casita de Barro specializes in authentic Talavera and Mexican pottery, offering a large selection of planters, dishes, ceramic animals, and more.

Born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico, owner Neyla Barajas grew up with the culture of maceta, classical Mexican pots made from clay. Barajas moved to Corpus Christi 22 years ago. Along with a successful sales career, Barajas turned her dream into a reality, opening Casita de Barro in 2018 and transforming her gardening hobbies and Talavera collection into a business.

"One of the ideas, and why I opened the store, is because I saw the need for something like this," Barajas says eagerly. "Most people, even myself, will drive to the border towns or Mexico to buy Talavera at an affordable price, made with good quality, and from a diversity of different things."

La Casita de Barro's extensive inventory is sourced directly from artisans in Mexico, rather than third-party vendors. Barajas says she feels proud of the support her business gives to the people in Mexico, who work many hours hand-crafting Talavera.

"They draw every single line and paint every single piece by hand. So when you're buying a piece of Talavera, you're buying a piece of art," Barajas says.

Previously utilized as a tire warehouse, La Casita de Barro maintains the feeling, hosting an atmosphere similar to retail warehouses in Mexico.

Whether you’re looking for a new planter, a fountain for the backyard, or even holiday décor, you can find just about anything to complete your outdoor lawn dreams at La Casita de Barro. Make sure you stop by with ample time on your hands, you’ll easily spend a few hours there.

"When you're buying, basically you go to warehouses full of this stuff," Barajas says. "I wanted to bring something to Corpus where, when people come into the store, they feel almost like they're in Mexico. I want people to experience what I experienced when I used to go. This kind of feeling, like a kid in a candy store where you're like, 'Oh my God, I want this, I want that.’"

La Casita de Barro offers more than Talaveras: The store's inventory covers a wide array of products from purses, jewelry, and embroidered face masks to metal decor, birdbaths, and planters. Barajas says it's important to her that customers feel happy to buy from her store.

"I want people to enjoy a quality product still, and not think they're going to break the bank. When people come here, I want them to have a good experience, and when they leave, they always feel like coming back, even if they don't buy anything. To me, it's all about making people feel comfortable."

Whether your home incorporates a Southwestern bohemian theme or not, La Casita de Barro offers a retail atmosphere suspended in rich Spanish and Mexican culture. From the bright, cheery colors to the lush, naturalistic themes of birds, leaves, flowers, and more, the authenticity and uniqueness of every item you'll discover at La Casita de Barro will leave you feeling the cultural experience and proud past that live in these artistic creations.

Contact: corpuschristipottery.com

WEDDING ON THE RANGE

BY: JO ANNE HOWELL

BY: HEIDI RAE PHOTOGRAPHY

Country Meets The Coast. The florals for this particular wedding were inspired by merging country and coastal themes. Oversized arrangements with an abundance of greenery and burgundy accents were paired with antlers to create table centerpieces.

parting words

Fall weddings here in South Texas are a rather fabulous thing. The weather allows for grand outdoor gatherings. Cinnamon Shore provided the perfect atmosphere to celebrate the love of Julia and Corbin. This chilly evening was accompanied by fire pits and warm coffee for guests to cozy up with. No detail is too small when it comes to making your guests feel comfortable throughout the night!

In Season Keeping your food true to season always adds an extra layer of intention to your event design. For this wedding cake, we went with a delectable autumn spice flavor. Other autumnal foods were incorporated into the evening such as pit-smoked meats and tamales.

Leave Your Mark. You can never go wrong with monogramming various décor elements to leave a lasting impression on your guests. You wouldn’t believe how many different things you can add your initials to. For this special event, we added customized cups and even a dance floor to make a statement.

PHOTOS

Kennedy Dental Care

Kennedy Dental is proud to have served the Coastal Bend for 50 years. Our practices o er both pediatric dentistry and orthodontics. At Kennedy Dental Care, your child’s comfort comes ﬁrst and our unparalleled commitment to the highest level of pediatric dental care has earned the trust of generation after generation in the Coastal Bend.

the coastal bend is fortunate to have so many entrepreneurs and business professionals whose talent, expertise, and creativity have a positive impact on our communities and make this region an excellent place to live. the bend magazine invites you to meet some of the faces behind our most prominent, local businesses. They are leaders in their field; they are game-changers; they are the faces of the coastal bend.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Photography by: Raymond Gray

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of WOMEN’s HEALTHCARE

DR. DALE EUBANK

Dr. Eubank’s practice and treatment options focus on all facets of women’s health as they are all interrelated. Before opening his practice in Corpus Christi in 1983, he attended Baylor University and subsequently attended University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas where he graduated in the top ten of his class. He did a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Parkland Hospital in Dallas where he served as Chief Resident. Dr. Eubank is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology and a member of the society for Reproductive Medicine.

For the past 16 years, Dr. Eubank has dedicated his practice to Gynecology, focusing on the mature woman. He addresses patient’s needs, such as menopausal hormone management with bioidentical hormone pellet therapy for women and men, vaginal rejuvenation with in-office ThermiVa, O-Shot and Emsella. These non-invasive treatments help women to improve and maintain

their gynecological, bladder and sexual health. Dr. Eubank is proud to offer a medically supervised weight loss program that has helped over 1500 men and women adopt new lifestyle habits in order to meet their weight loss goals and maintain these results. Vitamin injections are also offered to help patients increase metabolism, energy and immunity. In addition, Dr. Eubank offers FDA approved, Sculpsure laser treatment for permanent fat reduction. Dr. Eubank has owned Advanced Research Associates for 16 years, offering clinical trials and research that help bring new medications to the market for women. Dr. Eubank will continue his commitment to helping women throughout their lifespan by offering new, safe and effective treatment options to help women improve and maintain their gynecological, physical, sexual and emotional health, self-image and confidence.

Now offering Weight Loss, Vitamin Injections and Hormone Therapy Treatment in Portland, TX.

The Face of

ALLURE MED SPA

Allure Med Spa is where health meets beauty. We have been in the cosmetic industry for over seven years specializing in nonsurgical, cosmetic skin treatments for people of all ages. We aim to give each of our patients the individualized attention and care they deserve. While many different medical facilities are now administering cosmetic injectable treatments, Allure Med Spa knows there is an anatomical knowledge and an artistic eye needed to achieve the best results for theses popular injectables. For this reason, our master injector and staff custom-tailor and perform each procedure for each of our patients. This allows our patients the confidence that their injections are being administered by an experienced and licensed professional. Our dedication allows us to successfully serve a loyal patient base in Corpus Christi and surrounding areas. Allure Med Spa has gained and maintained countless dedicated patients that attribute to their rejuvenated, yet natural look. Our commitment to our patients is what has kept our patients returning and why we are the face of aesthetics.

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of

dentistry

Allen Dental Group

Dr. Alex Vial-Nadeau, DMD

Dr. Alex has been practicing dentistry for over 20 years. He practiced dentistry in a hospital setting while doing his multidisciplinary residency and fellowship. He moved to the Arctic region to experience a change in culture and to put his knowledge to practice while helping patients in underserviced, remote areas. After ten years in the North, he decided that it was time for a change and looked for a more tempered environment to both enjoy the outdoors, raise his kids, and settle down. An unexpected and great surprise for Dr. Alex was he discovered being part of a great family in the Allen Dental Group. He is thankful for all the people he gets to work with daily as they create a pleasant work environment. Dr. Alex cannot begin to describe his appreciation for all his patients that he gets to see. He truly strives to help them feel comfortable and believes in working together with his patients to provide the best results.

6200 Saratoga Blvd, STE 102 corpus christi drchadallen.com 361.992.8900

The Face of

FLOORING

Terry and Sandi Allison

Attention to Detail, Determination, and Dependability are just a few of the business practices that are a part of the daily routines of the Allison Flooring America team. Owners, Terry and Sandi Allison are the force that drives their business into the great distinction that it has today.

and Sandi practice every day, following the universal moral code of honor and respect for one another.

Allison Flooring America continues to strive to exceed each of our customer’s expectations. Every person that walks into our retail store is treated with honesty and respect. Recognized as the outstanding commercial flooring contractor year after year by the general contractor community validates the worthy efforts made by all of us.

Meet our family of employees. Come experience our warm and inviting atmosphere and lets find the right flooring product that will meet your needs and expectations.

We look forward to working with you. We want to be your flooring source for your next residential or commercial project.

It is not surprising to know that our family of employees have a combined total of over 200 years of hands on experience in the flooring industry. This accomplishment in itself demonstrates the honorable work ethic and invaluable standards that Terry 4400 S Padre Island Dr., corpus christi

The Face of ELDER LAW

Baker & Baker

In 1980, Ed and Brenda Baker formed the law firm Baker & Baker. For the past 15 years the primary focus for both Bakers has been to advocate on behalf of the elderly and disabled to insure they receive the care and attention they deserve as well as any and all the benefits to which they are entitled. Brenda primarily deals with estate planning, wills, directives, and probate while Ed serves as a guardian in

over 30 cases and helps individuals qualify for long-term care benefits like Medicaid without losing their home, car, or life savings. Baker & Baker’s primary purpose is to help preserve their clients’ estates so that they may be passed along according to their wishes. For the past 40 years Baker & Baker has been committed to providing the highest quality legal service possible to the Coastal Bend community.

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of italian

cuisine

Francesco Inguaggiato

Francesco, born and raised in Palermo, Italy, loves pushing the limits with his unique and classic Italian dishes. He opened his first Bellino in Rockport, Texas in 2004, then his second in 2011 in Corpus.

Bellino is unique in many ways, from their Bottega they offer specialty items from Italy, including homemade lasagna and desserts ready to take home. And Francesco is the only chef that we know of that makes his pasta, bread, Pinsa (ancient Roman Pizza), sauces and desserts from scratch.

Francesco stays involved with his community in many ways, using as many local ingredients as possible, he’s a business member of GROW Local South Texas. Every Thursday he offers a Farm2Table Dinner and first and last Friday’s he offers a Wine Tasting Dinner event.

Bellino now offers a full bar, classic Italian cocktails and liquors! Follow us @bellinostexas and #bellinoristorantecc

The future never tasted so good!

The Face of roofing

bayfront roofing & construction

Bayfront Roofing and Construction was forged in the fires of post Hurricane Harvey Rockport. We were just a small local business when devastation landed in our backyard. So many of our neighbors needed help and wanted to hire locals that we were forced to grow. Through that difficult time, we had the opportunity to work on many different types of projects with different engineers and designers from whom we learned so much. That diversity and knowledge gained has helped us grow to what we are today. We are the Face of Roofing because we care more about our people than our profits. We do whatever it takes to ensure each of our customers get the best roof possible. We live here, my boys go to school here and the people we help are our neighbors. We have always believed in giving back. We often say, “the more we grow, the more we will give” and that’s exactly what we intend to do. I absolutely believe these two boys (my sons) will be protecting our community through providing the best roofs in the coastal Bend long after I’m gone.

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of home building

braselton homes

Since 1945, when Guy Braselton came to Corpus Christi, Braselton Homes has grown from a small custom homebuilder, to one of the largest homebuilders in the United States .Over the years, thousands of families in the Coastal Bend have come to trust Braselton with their New Home.

But, a great deal has changed in homebuilding since the 1940s, and Braselton Homes has led the industry in changes, as the interest in energy efficient and Eco-friendly home building has surged in popularity. Braselton Homes built the first Eco-Home, creating a process to build a home that not only saves energy and water, but also helps its owners sustain a healthier lifestyle.

With the Eco-Home, Braselton, at the forefront of Eco-Innovation, was also a founding member of the Coastal Bend Green Built Program. Braselton Homes has further been recognized as the builder of the Environments for Living (EFL) Home, as well as the “Smart Home”, and is the first and only

homebuilder to receive the coveted Coastal Bend Bays Foundation “Conservation & Environmental Stewardship Award.” Braselton is also the areas oldest and largest homebuilder and neighborhood developer, and has been recognized by Builder Magazine, as well as by Professional Builder Magazine as the largest homebuilder in Texas, south of San Antonio.

Braselton Homes is focused on building not only high quality homes, but also a high quality community. We provide monetary and volunteer support to over 15 different ministries and charities in the Coastal Bend, including The Salvation Army, FCA, Operation Finally Home, The American Heart Association, The Coastal Bend Food Bank, Young Life, Habitat for Humanity and CASA.

By consistently looking for newer and more innovative ways to build homes, and the Community, Braselton Homes is building a healthier, smarter, and a stronger Coastal Bend.

The Face of

SENIOR Care

Senior helpers®

Senior Helpers® is the nation’s premier provider of in-home senior services ranging from specialized care for those with diseases, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, to personal and companion care to help individuals looking for a little assistance with daily activities.

Roni Bucey, Director of Operations leads the Coastal Bend team with laser focus and compassion ensuring each client is cared for just like family. Terri Hooper Administrator/Owner comes from a family of natural caregivers. Her commitment to serving the senior community is inspired by those who cared for her loved ones. Megan Schackai, Office Supervisor/Scheduler ensures caregiver skills are matched with client care needs.

Senior Helpers® is the only in-home care provider to be certified as a Great Place to Work, named by Fortune Magazine as one of the best places to work in the aging services category and is an approved partner in the Military Spouse Employment Partnership.

RIGHT: Megan Schackai, Roni Bucey, Terri Hooper

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Colin Mihalik

Dr. Colin Mihalik at CC Braces is a Board Certified Orthodontist with over 20 years of orthodontic training and experience in the US Air Force and private offices. His extensive knowledge for preparing a unique personalized orthodontic treatment plan for each one of his patients is truly remarkable. With his highly skilled staff, CC Braces delivers confidence to Corpus Christi with great looking SMILES and improved bite function for overall wellness.

Dr. Mihalik’s commitment to the exceptional care starts with combining the patient’s needs with his orthodontic expertise. From the very first call to the very last retainer check, and all the appointments in between, the friendly team

at CC Braces makes utmost efforts to treat and communicate with patients on exceptional level. With digital forms for convenience and only one phone number to call or text, connecting with CC Braces is a breeze. With all-inclusive pricing, Dr. Mihalik offers a hassle free way to enjoy your orthodontic experience with initial and progress X-Rays, braces or aligners, appliances, and retainers, all in one stress-free contract price.

Dr. Mihalik keeps up-to-date on all orthodontic and technological advancements by staying connected to prominent orthodontic groups for progressive and innovative treatment methods. He uses 3D technology to accurately diagnose, prepare, and treat patients with the most efficient and effective options.

With easy to schedule appointment options and a no-cost, no-pressure initial consultation, come see how Dr. Mihalik could transform your smile!

The Face of pain medicine

corpus christi pain medicine

Dr. Gabriel Lopez attended and graduated from Texas A&M University, College Station as a pre-med student 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. During his Anesthesia Residency he really enjoyed his Pain Management rotation so he pursued a Pain Fellowship at The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio.

After making the decision to become a Pain Management Physician he moved to Corpus Christi, Texas. Dr. Gabriel Lopez has resided in Corpus Christi for 15 years now along with his wife, Angelina and his two beautiful daughters, Gabriela 13, and Carolina 9.

Dr. Lopez started his own practice, Corpus Christi Pain Medicine in 2006 with just 2 staff members and himself, 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 find an answer to treat each patient’s individual pain. Dr. Lopez believes laughter can sometimes be the best medicine so he loves to joke and laugh with his patients to help put them at ease.

Dr. Lopez’ 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 and Ophthalmology cases at the Surgery Center with Orthopedic Spine Surgery to be added soon as well. He built his Ambulatory Surgery Center as a place where patients can experience a safe and warm environment prior to during and following a surgical procedure. He strives to make it a world class Ambulatory Surgical Center that is the premier choice for patients and surgeons for outpatient surgical services.

361.225.0089 3825 spid, corpus christi

ccpainmed.com

2020

The Face of ISLAND real estate

COASTLINE PROPERTIES

Coastline Properties: The powerhouse of real estate on Padre Island! Meet this dynamic team of professionals who are each specialists in their licensed area of expertise. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or lease, each faction relies on meeting your needs to the highest principled standards. However, building that long-lasting relationship with each client and customer is just as important. After 25 years in business, Customers for Life is the ultimate goal.

Owner Cheri Sperling has synthesized

the most practiced and proficient real estate team who know that results and happy clients result from not only skilled and trained experience, but by putting in long hours, giving tireless efforts, and putting your needs above all else. Only the best service experience will do, and that is further achieved through the team members’ community connections and involvement. Because not only are all Coastliners experts in real estate, but they are also experts on the Island. Over the years, the office has also become a Mecca coastline-properties.com

for Islanders and visitors alike to stop in to gain valuable information on ALL things - not just real estate related. Winning the prestigious “Padre Island Business of the Year” back in 2016 is just one small testament to the respect and raw dignity the company has fostered. Since 1995, Coastline Properties has ranked among the top 50 real estate companies in total volume of sales. Their consistency, long-term accomplishments, strong ethical codes, and impressive leading performance is what guides everything they do. If you haven’t already, Come Coast Awhile…you’ll see what all the fuss is about.

361.949.0101

14717 S Padre Island Dr. corpus christi

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of

Home Renovation

INNOVO RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION

Kurt Tugman’s construction roots can be traced back to when his “Hippy” parents decided to build their own home in the mountains of North Carolina. That experience led to Kurt starting his own remodeling business while still in college which in turn sparked Kurt’s desire to enroll in Grad school to further his education in business. After graduating #1 in his class and with the ink still wet on his MBA diploma, Kurt went straight to work for one of the largest homebuilders in the United States, K.Hovnanian. This is where Kurt learned the home

building business from the ground up. The economic downturn of 2009 meant banks weren’t lending and therefore few new homes were being constructed. This sparked the idea to start a high-quality residential remodeling company. Innovo is a Latin term meaning to seek Innovation, to create and renew. Kurt’s background in construction and technology helped him meld these two worlds to create the “The Innovo Way”- the process that Drives the company and helps ensure satisfied clients. It involves working with home owners to help their ideas become

a beautiful reality. Using 3-D renderings, they can take clients from the idea stage to project completion in a way that ensures everyone is happy with the final results. Innovo Custom Home Construction has completed projects for hundreds of home owners in the communities of Rockport, Port Aransas, Portland, Calallen, Padre Island and Corpus Christi. They specialize in new construction, large additions, total house guts, kitchen and bath remodels. Innovo Custom Home Construction has made it their priority to provide accountable and high-quality Residential Construction services. Innovo maintains an A+ rating from the BBB and is also Corpus Christi’s only 8-time winner of Angie’s List Super Service Award, an accreditation which is only awarded to the top 5% of contractors in the nation.

christi

The Face of ARCHITECTURE

GIGNAC ARCHITECTS

Gignac Architects has served Texas with Architectural, Interior, Landscape Design, and Construction Management Services since 1988 when it was established by Raymond Gignac, AIA. Gignac Architects is a full service firm providing planning expertise in educational, institutional, municipal and private commercial work with an emphasis on quality design. With 20 employees in three offices, the multi-generational firm is

family run and looking toward the future. One of the firm’s unique factors is that both Raymond and his son, Nick Gignac, are involved with every project. Gignac Architects has maintained a strong relationship with the City of Corpus Christi and CCISD for years. The firm has designed many of the iconic buildings around the community, such as the American Bank Center and Veterans Memorial High School. Altogether, Gignac Architects has completed 22 projects for CCISD and multiple projects for the City of Corpus Christi, the Regional Transportation Authority, and the City of Portland.

Gignac Architects has successful experience

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

with projects that include master planning, new construction, additions, renovations, interiors design, infrastructure work, roofing, HVAC work, athletic facilities, and facility security design. As the community develops, they hope to grow alongside it and meet its design and architectural needs. They commit the workforce necessary to complete projects within the designated schedule and client’s budget. Each project team is tailored to address the unique challenges and opportunities to ensure success.

Welcome to the HOME of Buddy Walker Home Furnishings What makes a house a home? Fine furnishings certainly help, and that’s exactly what Buddy Walker Home Furnishings has to offer. As a family owned and operated business for over 50 years, they have pride in quality products and a high standard of service. A qualified staff stands behind their full design services and interior decorators to ensure your home becomes the one you’ve always dreamt of. For those visual shoppers, they’re able to create a fun, life-like sketch with the desired

furnishings to really help customers visualize how the furniture, window coverings, floors, etc. will look in your specific space. In addition to their complimentary design service, they’ll deliver all inventory and set up and arrange it! The owners are regularly shopping for inventory, allowing the showroom to have constant new arrivals streaming in so there’s always something new and exciting to choose from. After all, homes need accessories, too!

The Face of Goal-Based, Personal Financial Advice

Laurelyn Pohlmeier, Edward Jones

Laurelyn Pohlmeier started her practice as a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 company, in her hometown of Corpus Christi 21 years ago. She holds the CFP® professional designation and works diligently to understand each client’s unique situations and needs. At Edward Jones, helping with the long-term, serious investor to achieve their financial goals is top priority. Laurelyn specializes in implementing tailored solutions in order to create life-long partnerships with each of her clients.

As a busy professional raising four boys, Laurelyn loves the “village” of support the Coastal Bend provides her family. She is especially appreciative for the ability to work in an industry that serves great people, helping them accomplish and protect their financial goals for themselves and their families. Giving back to the community she loves, Laurelyn serves as a Civilian Board Trustee on the Corpus Christi Firefighters’ Pension Board and is a vestry member of her church.

With the vast amount of opportunities to help hard-working individuals and families plan for their financial futures, Laurelyn looks forward to helping send children off to college, retire from their careers, step into work-optional lifestyles and leave a legacy for the next generation.

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of

ROCKPORT REAL ESTATE

Luce Properties

Located at the entrance to Key Allegro Isle, the Luce Properties office has been a landmark on the island for over 50 years. Under the direction of owners Dayne and Parkie Ledbetter Luce, the firm specializes in the marketing of homes on the waterfronts and fairways, and an expansive rental division offers vacation homes and condominiums. Dedicated to preserving high standards of excellence, Luce Properties keeps pace with the latest technology, innovative marketing and advertising and a constant strengthening of service. The Luce Properties team of highly skilled top pro-

ducers balances their professional life with civic and charitable endeavors, bettering the community by contributing to educational programs, children’s activities, Odyssey After School, the Humane Society & Adoption Center, Coastal Conservation Association and numerous worthy causes.

The Luce family’s roots are deep in the Rockport area, and the firm’s solid foundation, built on knowledge, experience and an impeccable reputation, inures to the benefit of a highly appreciated clientele.

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Faces of Radiology

For over 70 years, Radiology Associates has offered advanced diagnostic imaging to our patients in the Coastal Bend. Our on-site radiologists manage your imaging exams and interpret the results while working in conjunction with your physician to provide you and your family with exceptional, personalized healthcare.

Our diverse, board-certified team of radiologists offer a wide variety of state-of-the-art outpatient exams including musculoskeletal, neuroradiology, breast imaging, women’s imaging, and nuclear medicine/P.E.T. using the most advanced equipment available.

Not only is Radiology Associates the first and most experienced provider of 3D mammograms, we are the only local outpatient imaging facility that only offers 3D mammograms regardless of insurance coverage. Our Breast Imaging Department is home to four radiologists who specialize exclusively in women’s health, interpreting more than 40,000 3D mammograms each year. Our comfortable, cloth robes, and female technologists make your exam a more comfortable experience.

At Radiology Associates, our mission is to ensure you are treated with the utmost respect, compassion and care all while keeping your health and safety abreast during these challenging times. Our centers are designed to help make your experience safe, comfortable and efficient while following all CDC guidelines. Our friendly concierge will greet you at the door ready to take your temperature, offer sanitizer and ask you COVID screening questions prior to entering each facility. We are now offering contactless check-in to minimize person-to-person contact where you will be notified via text message or phone call when your technologist is ready to see you. Our online patient portal also makes your report and images available for your review within three days. We offer walk-in x-rays, same day appointments, after hour and weekend appointments.

Mailan Melissa Cao, M.D.

Alexander J. Craft D.O., M.S.

Everett L. Gayle, M.D.

Ning Huang, M.D.

Michael W. Michell, M.D.

David K. Williams, M.D.

Richard P. Chepey, M.D.

Patrick Kelly Elvin, M.D.

Charles B. Gover, M.D.

Mark A. Kozlowski, M.D.

Aaron Moon, M.D.

David D. Wilson, M.D.

Karl T. Fan, M.D.

Bryan Hanus, M.D.

Kenneth D. Matejka, M.D.

David Burk Strong, M.D.

Robert Yang, M.D.

Arpit Gandhi, MD

Ruth K. Gershon, MD

Jennifer E. Turner, MD

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of automotive excellence

neessen automotive group

The three Neessen dealerships in Kingsville, Texas sell and service 8 different brands to serve your automotive needs! Neessen Automotive has served South Texas with automotive sales and services since 1980 when it was established by Phil Neessen. As a family owned and operated business, they have pride in how their customers feel when they walk in the doors and drive away from the dealership. They are at the peak of all digital advances in the industry, including your shopping experience.

Neessen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram store has earned the Customer First Award for Excellence for 4 years in a row. This elite status shows

recognition by consumers as being leaders in customer sales and service experience.

Neessen Chevrolet Buick GMC has received countless awards including the coveted GM Mark of Excellence Award for years on end.

Neessen Polaris is the newest addition in Kingsville. It is the largest Polaris showroom in the state of Texas with a full service department. The commitment to taking care of their customers is weaved through every employee at their three stores – where high standards meet low prices!

Photo by: JASON PAGE

The Face of massage massage center

For 15 years Massage Center has brought tranquility to Corpus Christi. Founded by Cathy Briones Arce who dreamed of operating a healing oasis that would be able to treat and educate her clients on the art of therapeutic massage. With attention to detail, paired with a passion for healing, this has given Massage Center the perfect match for success. Cathy and her entire staff are well educated in the world of massage therapy and take every opportunity to continue learning for their

clients. It is this commitment to excellence and pride in community that has kept Massage Center thriving for 15 years.

Massage Center offers picturesque private rooms that upon entry, leaves all stresses at the door. There is a wide variety of services that are offered that are sure to not only calm the mind, but invigorate the senses which create balance & peace.

The health and safety of our clients and therapists is critical so Massage Center has implemented strict procedures and protocols designed to meet the current challenges due to COVID-19. Massage Center continues to stay up to date on local & US Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) guidelines. To learn more about Massage Center, visit us at ccmassagecenter.com.

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of Pest Management Professionals

Kent Nielsen & Chelsea Nielsen

Over the last 31 years, Pest Patrol has become one of the most recognized brands in Corpus Christi and throughout the Coastal Bend. Everywhere owner Kent Nielsen goes, he is greeted with his iconic slogan, “Buenas Noches, Cockroaches”, by friends and strangers alike.

He has established his reputation on solid business practices, integrity and the good old-fashioned trust. He does what he says no matter the cost. Pest Patrol strives each day to uphold their values by offering affordable and effective pest management solutions. With over 90 years of combined experience, their team of highly trained technicians have the tools, skills, and knowledge to service a variety of household pests, especially those horrible cockroaches.

Pest Patrol is a local, family owned company, meaning they provide the type of personalized service you won’t receive from a franchise. Since their humble beginnings over 31 years ago, they continue to treat each customer like a member of their extended family and work to ensure your home and family’s health are protected with quality treatments and pest control solutions. Kent Nielsen, attributes much of his company’s success to the staff. Many of their technicians have been at your service for well over a decade. With the next generation, Chelsea Nielsen, Kent’s oldest daughter, assuming a leadership role in the near future, Pest Patrol is positioned to help you say “Buenas Noches, Cockroaches” for many years to come.

3630 Wow Rd., corpus christi Pestpatrolcc.com 361.852.4002

The Face of Landscapes

McNamee Landscapes & Nursery

John Bivens, owner of McNamee Landscapes and Nursery, has spent many days behind a desk, holding executive level positions for companies like Whataburger, Papa Johns and Dean Foods. However, his passion has always been for creative woodworking and landscaping on his own properties. When the opportunity arose to acquire McNamee Landscapes, he saw a unique way to unite his creative side with his managerial background.

John is passionate about understanding our local climate and creating landscapes that thrive in it. He spends his off time testing palms, yuccas and other draught tolerant plants in our native soils, against straight line winds and salt spray on his thirty acre mini botanical garden. Clients love the opportunity to see the plants first hand and find it helpful to see the plants in their maturity.

The expertise and service at McNamee goes beyond de-sign and

plants. John is proud to offer the Coastal Bend one of the largest selections of stone and boulders in the region, providing installation of stone patios, walkways, fireplaces and fire pits.

McNamee believes that the business is about, and will always be about, their customer. Each customer’s needs are different. So in effect, McNamee becomes the customer’s private consultant, expert resource and problem solver.

Today, John serves on the Board of Directors for the South Texas Botanical Gardens and has enjoyed working on major landscaping projects, such as The Shops at La Palmera, Plains Capital Bank building on Shoreline, La-Z-Boy’s new retail location and Unifirst corporate office. John doesn’t just focus on commercial jobs. He has handled a large number of residential landscape jobs, using his expertise to beautify homes throughout the Coastal Bend.

The Face of FRESH & LOCAL PRODUCE

BLUNTZER FRUIT STAND

At Bluntzer Fruit Stand, Fresh, Friendly & Local is always in season!

Since 2010, BFS has been providing its customers and communities with the freshest, locally sourced fruits & vegetables available. What started out as a trailer full of watermelons parked under a tree has now become the

Coastal Bend’s #1 open air fruit market selling all your favorite Texas seasonal produce!

Year-round operation gives us the opportunity to connect with local farmers & source a variety of produce from the Rio Grande Valley all the way up to the Texas Panhandle. From summertime favorites like Yellow Watermelon,

Texas Cantaloupe & 1015 Sweet Onions to wintertime must-haves like New Crop Pecans, Valley Lemons, TX Navel Oranges & Ruby Red Grapefruit, BFS has it all! Local Honey, Jams & Jellies –Yes, we have that, too!

You don’t have to travel far to taste the best produce Texas has to offer!

Left to Right – Daisy Rico, Francesca Martinez, Paul Martinez Jr., Benjamin Martinez, Sabra Woodward, Adrian Bueno. Bottom Right Corner – Owners Nicholas & Bryana Arguijo

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of cosmetic surgery

keith rose, m.d.

Understanding a patient’s desires and working with them to achieve their dream is the focus of the Rose Cosmetic Surgery Center. Dr. Keith Rose begins by discovering who the patient is beneath the skin before determining how to help the patient achieve their cosmetic surgery goals. He believes listening to the patient and understanding their goals is the cornerstone of any great result. This is why patients have traveled from all over the state to see Dr. Rose for their aesthetic surgery needs. Dr. Rose helps patients explore the wonderful options available for augmenting natural beauty and turning back

the clock through plastic surgery. Personalized care and creating beautiful, natural results are what boost both doctor and patient satisfaction. Dr. Rose is an internationally recognized surgeon who has performed over 2,500 plastic and reconstructive surgeries and trained numerous surgeons around the world on three different continents. Working with organizations like Team 5 Foundation and CURE International feeds his passion for plastic surgery along with his private practice. Corpus Christi is incredibly blessed to have Dr. Rose, his surgery center, and his philanthropic efforts.

zoe gottlich

WELCOME TO THE HOME OF COLDWELL BANKER PACESETTER STEEL REALTORS®

The greatest compliment she receives is referral business from previous clients. The gratitude from buyers and sellers speaks volumes to the level of service she provided for them. Market knowledge, skilled negotiation, problem solving, creative marketing, and listening to client needs combined with a trustworthy, honest, and enthusiastic attitude are the key ingredients to her ongoing success.

Whether it is a small home or million-dollar estate, personal real estate is usually the largest investment for families and Zoe’s clients are relying on her real estate expertise. Zoe is passionate about her profession and she finds it extremely rewarding to help people realize their dream of buying or selling a home in the coastal bend.

Zoe Gottlich is the #1 top producer for the last 11 consecutive years at Coldwell Banker Pacesetter Steel Realtors®. She holds a BS degree in economics, is a member of the International President’s Elite which are the top 2% of Coldwell Banker agents worldwide and is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist. Zoe and her husband, Mark, are third generation Corpus Christian and live in Zoe’s childhood home which her parents built in 1947. They have 2 children in their early 30’s, Grier and Cecile. Their daughter Cecile is an architectural interior designer in Austin. Grier and his wife Paige live in Corpus Christi and Grier is a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker Pacesetter Steel Realtors® as well. gotzoe.com

5034 holly rd, corpus christi

zoe.gottlich@coldwellbanker.com 361.813.9460

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of ENDODONTICS

Jered King, DMD

Donald Anthony, DDS

Beatriz Robles, DD

South Texas Endodontics formed when Jered King DMD joined Don Anthony DDS in 2012. Dr. Anthony had already been practicing endodontics in Corpus Christi for over 25 years and Dr. Beatriz Robles joined South Texas Endodontics in 2017. Dr. Anthony, Dr. King, and Dr. Robles fulfilled the requirements to become Endodontic specialists in the field of dentistry. Dr. King and Dr. Robles went further to become board certified Endodontists and are currently the only in Corpus Christi. Board Certification required extra steps to include a written test, case portfolio, and face an oral board to defend cases. They’re currently the only group Endodontic practice in Corpus Christi, and the three love to share and discuss cases and enjoy what they do. They are also the only endodontic office in the Coastal Bend that offers IV sedation for the apprehensive patient. South Texas Endodontics was involved with Texas Mission of Mercy which offered free dental health care to the community. They have also contributed yearly to Driscoll Childrens Hospital and other charities such as March of Dimes, New Life Refuge Ministries, and local churches. With the completion of a new building on McArdle, South Texas Endodontics is excited to bring state of the art facilities to practice endodontics at an even higher level for their patients.

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of ORTHOPEDICS: KNEE & HIP REPLACEMENT

Dr. Justin Klimisch

Dr. Justin Klimisch earned his doctorate from The University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine and continued with his internship and residency in Orthopaedic Surgery at UTMB. He completed an accredited fellowship in Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Before becoming a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, he served in the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division. He continues to serve as the Medical Director of Disease Specific Care Certification for hip and knee replacement at Doctors Regional. As a consulting physician, Dr. Klimisch specializes in computer navigated and robotic surgery, using state of the art technological advancements and trains other surgeons from around the nation in the latest evidence-based hip and knee surgery techniques. He is also an active member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, Texas Medical Association and Nueces County Medical Society.

South Texas Bone and Joint is the only orthopaedic surgical group in Corpus Christi focused on sub-specialty orthopaedic surgery. With doctors specializing in every area of musculoskeletal medicine, South Texas Bone and Joint is dedicated to providing the highest standard of care. Dr. Klimisch and the entire staff are proud to continue their mission of providing excellence in professional healthcare services throughout South Texas and beyond. From event sponsorship to volunteering, their physicians and staff give back to the community through organizations such as The American Cancer Society, CASA, Conquer the Coast, CCISD Athletics, Goodwill, Laguna Little League, Los Encinos Elementary, New Life Refugee Ministries, Rise School of Corpus Christi and Triumph Over Kid Cancer.

601 Texan Trail corpus christi

southtexasboneandjoint.com

361.854.0811

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of family law

Lindsay M. Browne is a family law attorney that has been licensed since 2005. She began her own practice in November 2007 in Houston, Texas, and moved to the Coastal Bend in 2008. Throughout her career, she has received many awards and accolades. She was named as a top local attorney this year by The Bend List and has served on the Corpus Christi Bar Association in numerous board positions, including President of the Family Law Section in 2013-2014. In that same year (2014), she was also named Outstanding Young Lawyer of the Year. Browne understands the unique needs of her clients and applies an in-depth knowledge of Texas family law to each client she represents. Continuing to set the gold standard in family law, Browne personally handles every case her firm takes on to achieve the best possible results. She is honored to continue representing the Coastal Bend community.

3430

Lindsay M. Browne

The Face of BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY

STRAIGHT EDGE TECHNOLOGY

For over a decade, Straight Edge Technology has provided IT support to companies in the South Texas area. Instead of dealing with technology issues, local businesses can focus on what really matters: their growth. Straight Edge Technology continues to expand and has established locations in both Corpus Christi and San Antonio, Texas.

Born and Raised in Corpus, Douglass received a B.S. in Computer Science from Texas A&M – Corpus Christi before founding Straight Edge Technology, Inc. in 2006. He and his wife, Kristina, stay busy with their children Lincoln, London, Briggs, and Charlee.

Straight Edge Technology supports any company that might deal with employee downtime, security breaches, and technology use in their day-to-day work. They aim to save clients’ money and increase productivity.

For Douglass, IT support should be proactive and centered around building relationships with the goal of getting businesses the most return out of their technology investment. He sits down with each client and develops a strategic technology roadmap for their unique needs and goals. Companies are given access to a highly specialized team to direct every aspect of technology for their business. They specialize in serving legal, healthcare, oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing industries. Straight Edge Technology is a one of a kind IT Services Provider, and our team is by our customer’s side every step of the process.

2210 Patton St., corpus christi

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of higher education

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY–CORPUS CHRISTI

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s impact reaches far beyond the borders of its unique island location. Our award-winning faculty partner with industry leaders and students to solve the environmental, social, and economic issues facing our region. This hands-on training keeps us connected to the community around us.

We are committed to every student’s success. Our supportive environment inspires Islanders to explore new ideas, develop their creativity, and find their purpose. We offer a comprehensive university experience with approximately 80 programs of study and 150 clubs and organizations. Our Early Childhood Development Center offers a superior learning environment and we partner with school districts all over the region each year to positively impact K-12 education.

We are proud to be part of the A&M System’s We Teach Texas initiative and to serve as the Face of Higher Education in the Coastal Bend. Dr. Clarenda Phillips, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, is part of our leadership team that seeks to create meaningful learning opportunities for all students.

The Face of hOME & AUTO

Drew Becquet State Farm Agent

Since 1964 State Farm has been the number one home and auto insurance provider in America. At the Drew Becquet State Farm office we pride ourselves on building meaningful long lasting relationships with our customers. As your family grows we want to be there every step of the way to help you manage the risk of everyday life, recover from the unexpected, and help you realize your dreams. We are passionate about our Corpus Christi community. Each catastrophic event is our opportunity to deliver on the promises we made to our policy holders to help them recover. We will continue to be the leader in insurance and financial services and our customer’s needs will always determine our path. We’d love the opportunity to earn your business!

6019 S Staples St., corpus christi agentdrewb.com 361.854. 4638

The Face of STEAKHOUSES

NIKO’s STEAKHOUSE

Niko’s Steakhouse will exceed every steak lovers’ expectations. They offer an extensive and assorted menu in a casual, elegant atmosphere. Owner Niko Sissamis is very passionate about offering great food. Niko is a third-generation restaurant owner in the Coastal Bend. His grandfather opened two diners in Corpus Christi in the late 1930’s with his brother-in-law. In 1957, Niko’s grandfather sold his shares in both locations to venture into the Steakhouse concept and together with his children Paul, Bill, and Anastacia built The Astor Restaurant, which still operates. Niko and his siblings all worked in the family restaurant from the time they were young. He learned the business and hard work from his parents and grandparents but he credits his success first and foremost to God.

Niko first launched Ol’ Steakhouse Co. in 1994 before building Niko’s Steakhouse in 2005. Since then, Niko’s has become a favorite among Coastal Bend locals, winning countless “Best of the Best” awards for Best Steak, Seafood, Fish Tacos, Chicken Fried Steaks, Margaritas, Beer Selection, Wine Selection, Fine Dining, Happy Hour, Bar & Grill, Lunch, and Best Restaurant. They have been featured in Texas Monthly numerous times and has won the 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020 Local’s Pick for “Best Steak” in The Bend’s Local’s List poll.

5409 Saratoga Blvd, Corpus Christi

361.992.2333 nikossteakhouse.com

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

The Face of

asset management

cruger financial services

There are more ways to manage money than there are people that manage it. In these times you hear many words thrown around the financial industry and media: stocks, bonds, mutual funds, diversification, re-balancing, bulls, bears, etc. There are countless opinions and websites that seem dedicated to information overload, leaving you wondering whom to trust. At Cruger Financial Services we help you make sense of it all. Our focused investment recommendations are always based on your unique needs and are executed with complete transparency. You’ll never be left wondering what you’re invested in, or why.

Travis Cruger, President of Cruger Financial Services, provides the daily market report for KEDT 90.3 FM, and is heavily involved with local non-profit organizations. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Ronald McDonald House of Corpus Christi, the Corpus Christi Police Foundation, and USO South Texas. Travis Has an MBA from Texas A&M University, where he met his wife, Allison. Together, they have two daughters, Lana & Sadie.

“Securities

FACES of The Coastal Bend 2020

In 1977, my parents Kiko and Grace opened Kiko’s at the advisement of my grandparents, who owned MiTerra on Morgan Avenue. In 1991, after outgrowing the shopping center next to the restaurant, Kiko built the building we are in today. My parents worked for 32 years until they retired in 2012. As a boy, I worked weekends, summers, and holidays learning the business. I knew this was going to be my life. In 2012, I bought the restaurant and property. We’ve been featured in Texas Monthly and a morning show in San Antonio. We’ve won Best of the Best every year, as well as The Local’s List. What makes us the Face of Mexican Food? Quality and consistency. We are the last local Tex-Mex restaurant left in the city, which differentiates us from taquerias. From my wife Amanda and I, it’s been a pleasure being a part of Corpus Christi for the past 42 years.

361.991.1211

CUISINE

There’s nothing more pleasing to the eye than a beautifully curated charcuterie board. Olive Bleu Charcuterie knows a thing or two about colors, textures, tastes, and smells all coming together to create an aesthetically-pleasing experience.

MELDING FLAVORS

THREE DELICIOUS SOUPS – WITH LOCALLY SOURCED INGREDIENTS – FOR THE COLDER MONTHS

BY: JUSTIN & KAYLA BUTTS PHOTOS BY: RACHEL

“Pease porridge hot, pease porridge cold.” This nursery rhyme, first recorded in 1760, comes from real life. In those long-ago days, most meals were cooked in a cauldron over the fire. The pot hung from an arm in the hearth so it could swing out to add new ingredients, then swing back over the fire.

This dish was originally called pottage, which meant “from the pot.” Pottage became porridge when thickened with grain. Pudding was made by sewing vegetables (peas were always the English favorite) into a cloth bag and dropping the bag into the pot. That way, a hunk of mutton or sausage could be cooked simultaneously in the cauldron outside of the bag.

“Nine days old”; this is where it gets interesting. There were no refrigerators, microwaves, or even stovetops back then. Any nonshelf-stable ingredients brought into the house (an old hen, a mutton leg, or the delicacy of a beef tongue) were thrown straightaway into the cauldron. All types of vegetables, herbs, and mushrooms also went into the pot before they spoiled.

While new ingredients were regularly added, the contents of the pot were being ladled out to each member of the family daily for breakfast and supper. At breakfast, before the fire was stoked, the soup was cold; at suppertime, it was hot. Some like it hot, some like it cold.

Nine days is a little much for us, but there is science at work to explain why soup improves as it simmers. The best soups achieve their glory in the melding of flavors. Each ingredient, given time in the

cooking process, releases its unique essence to the whole. These flavors combine to create something entirely new. Soup always tastes better after a day or two.

We humbly offer three soup recipes to fit the local ingredients of our lovely fall season. We can hardly wait for the beets and other root vegetables to ripen to get them into a soup. This borscht offers a stunning color at the table, and pairs well with any main course. Use only local ingredients, grown without chemicals, picked at their peak of flavor.

For the mushroom soup, visit Natural Grocers or the Asian Food Market to find the best selection of mushrooms. If you like string bean casserole for Thanksgiving, make this soup ahead of time to use instead of canned cream of mushroom.

For the Italian wedding soup, get your Italian sausage from local favorite Turkey Hollow Farm. Their pastured pork sausage comes perfectly seasoned and only needs heat to rise to its perfection.

Sautéing the vegetables, caramelizing the onions, and deglazing the pan in wine are keys to flavor in these soups. The sautéing process maximizes the sweetness and flavor of the vegetables and helps them hold up in the long, slow cooking process. Also, start with your own homemade broth made from wholesome local ingredients, rather than using lackluster store-bought broth.

Hot or cold, new or old, these wonderful soups offer something for everyone to love this fall.

BENAVIDES

RECIPE

Italian Wedding Soup

Serves 8

PREP TIME: 15 minutes

COOK TIME: 20 minutes

INGREDIENTS :

MEATBALLS:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 shallot, minced

1 lb Italian sausage

1 large egg

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1/2 cup parmigiano reggiano

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

SOUP :

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

2 carrots, peeled and chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup acini de pepe or orzo pasta

1 cup escarole or kale, torn

8 cups chicken stock

2 tsp salt

1 tsp freshly ground pepper

1/2 cup parmigiano reggiano

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

DIRECTIONS :

In a large stock pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Combine remaining ingredients for meatballs in a large ball using your hands until well combined. Roll into meatballs, about 1.25” in diameter. Cook for 5 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel lined plate with a slotted spoon.

Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the same pot. Add onions and carrots and sauté for 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Finally, add greens, pasta, chicken stock, salt and pepper to the pot, increasing the heat to high until mixture reaches a rolling boil, about 5 minutes. Spoon in reserved meatballs and decrease heat to a simmer, low-medium.

Cover the soup and cook an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to marry. Serve with parmigiano reggiano and fresh parsley.

RECIPE

Creamy Mushroom Soup

Serves 6

PREP TIME: 10 minutes

COOK TIME: 25 minutes

INGREDIENTS :

4 tbsp butter

1 sweet onion, chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 lbs mushrooms, sliced

1/2 cup dry wine (white or red)

6 tbsp all-purpose flour

4 cups beef or chicken broth

1 1/2 tsp salt

1 cup heavy cream

1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

DIRECTIONS:

Heat butter over medium heat in a large stock pot. Add onion and sauté for 3 minutes, before adding garlic. Cook one minute, until garlic is fragrant, and add mushrooms, cooking an additional 5 minutes, until mushrooms begin to caramelize.

Deglaze pan with wine and cook 3 minutes, while scraping the bits from the bottom of the pot. In a small bowl, combine flour and 1 cup broth, whisking until flour dissolves. Add flour mixture to pot and stir frequently, until mixture is bubbling. Stir in remaining ingredients and simmer for 10 minutes, until mushrooms are fork tender.

RECIPE

Borscht Puree

Serves 8-10

PREP TIME: 25 minutes

COOK TIME: 45 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

2 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, peeled and finely chopped

4 beets, peeled and finely chopped

4 carrots, peeled and finely chopped

2 parsnips, peeled and finely chopped

6 cups beef, chicken, or vegetable broth

6 cups water

3 tbsp red wine vinegar

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup crushed tomatoes

2 tsp kosher salt

1 tsp freshly ground pepper

1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped

Optional: sour cream or plain Greek yogurt to garnish

DIRECTIONS:

Heat olive oil over medium heat. Add vegetables and stir frequently, cooking until tender and fragrant (about 10 minutes). Add broth, water, tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot and increase to high heat. Boil for 5 minutes. Cover soup with a lid, reduce to low-medium heat, and simmer mixture for an additional 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before blending.

Working in batches, puree mixture until smooth using an immersion or standing blender. Serve with fresh dill and a dollop of sour cream/Greek yogurt.

TIP: To decrease the time and difficulty of chopping vegetables, blitz in a food processor by working in batches.

BEAUTIFUL BREWING

RAISE A GLASS TO AN INITIATIVE FIGHTING RACISM AND PROMOTING INCLUSIVENESS

BY: ALEXIS HARBORTH PHOTO COURTESY: REBEL TOAD BREWING

Breweries across the entire country are coming together to raise funds, raise awareness, and raise a glass for a critical need. The Black is Beautiful collaboration is an initiative that started at Weathered Souls brewery in San Antonio. It exists to bring awareness to the injustices that people of color experience, and to support organizations that are making a difference.

All participating breweries were given a recipe for a beer developed by Weathered Souls, which designed it as a “moderately high abv. stout to showcase the different shades of black.”

Three breweries in Corpus Christi are among the hundreds who took part: Rebel Toad, Lorelei Brewing Company, and B&J's PizzaBrew Pub are all committed to the long-term work of creating equality.

Quinn Hendrick of Lorelei Brewing Company said they knew immediately that they’d be taking part. “When we heard about the Black

is Beautiful initiative coming from Weathered Souls, we knew right off the bat we wanted to join in,” Hendrick says. “Beer is great at bringing people together, so using our platform to bring some awareness and reflection, while also showing our support for justice and equality across the board, was a no-brainer.”

Hector and Nathali Cavazos are the co-owners of Rebel Toad, and Hector is the Brewmaster of this downtown hotspot. “When we learned about the Black is Beautiful initiative, we knew we wanted to lend our voices for change,” says Nathali Cavazos.

The initiative invites breweries to take the beer recipe as-is or put a personalized spin on it. At these spots in the Coastal Bend, many unique batches have been developed. For instance, at Lorelei Brewing Company, you can try a raspberry and chocolate Black Is Beautiful blend. At Rebel Toad, there were two versions of the beer – one that follows the original recipe, and a hazelnut brew developed specially for Corpus Christi.

To date, there are 1,177 breweries in 22 countries who have participated in the Black is Beautiful initiative. Each of the 50 U.S. states has participation, and the Coastal Bend is proud to be home to three.

The initiative asks partners in this collaboration to donate 100% of Black is Beautiful beer profits toward local foundations creating an impact, such as organizations supporting police brutality reform and groups providing legal defenses for those who have been wronged. Locally, funds are benefting several organizations, including the Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education-Corpus Christi (TABPHE-CC), the Institute for Criminal Justice Training Reform, and MAP of Texas.

“It was important to find an organization where proceeds donated would stay here in our community; that's why TABPHE- Corpus Christi is a perfect fit,” explains Nathali Cavazos.

Across the world, this campaign is making an impact. To date, there are 1,158 breweries in 21 countries. Each of the 50 U.S. states has participation, and the Coastal Bend is proud to be home to three.

Richard Mathews, Brewmaster at BJ’s, encourages more to consider taking part. Mathews is excited about what it will bring to our area. “We want to promote diversity in brewing,” he says. “If you feel like getting involved, you should. Let’s support our neighbors.”

The Black is Beautiful initiative serves many purposes. And one very important goal of this initiative is to show that the brewing community can be an inclusive and safe place. These breweries invite you to raise your glass and toast to equality and fighting racism.

Contact: blackisbeautiful.beer

A COLORFUL ASSORTMENT

OLIVE BLEU CHARCUTERIE AND THEIR BEAUTIFUL CREATIONS

BY: JOSH MAXWELL PHOTOS BY: LILLIAN REITZ

Top tips: When assembling a charcuterie board, there are a few things to keep in mind in order to achieve the perfect look. Combining an assortment of textures creates a pleasing end product to look at. Don’t be afraid to layer up! Make sure any bare spots are covered. Lastly, keep it seasonal! Figure out what’s in season and allow it to inspire your board and its color palette.

Although social gatherings are limited these days, that doesn't stop local businesswoman Amanda Meurer from making her colorful charcuterie boards for others to enjoy. She has managed to cook up a large following for Olive Bleu Charcuterie: With more than 2,500 followers on her Instagram, Meurer makes it her personal mission to put every bit of effort and creativity she can into each box she creates.

How special are the results? “Every box is completely different; often clients will send me a picture of a box that I’ve already made because they want that exact box, but they come out a little different,” she says.

When building charcuterie displays, it’s important to understand exactly what the client wants. Meurer puts extra care and consideration – and complexity –into crafting her boxes.

“Having fresh ingredients and quality products to put inside my boxes means everything to me. I use artisan cheese, high quality meats, and fresh fruits,” she says.

With quarantine and social distancing still very prevalent in the community, Meurer finds that her business has not suffered from the pandemic.

“I feel that it has actually benefited my business,” she says. “When everyone started practicing social distancing, it made it easier for me to deliver my boxes because people weren't really going anywhere.”

Meurer has also found that her boxes have had an easy time reaching the ears and lips of others. With any business, marketing oneself is very important. However, Meurer finds that her boxes basically market themselves. “I haven't really had to market at all; the only thing I have to do is just post on social media. Also, word of mouth has helped me a lot.”

Even though Olive Bleu has garnered much success, sometimes the weight of running a business can be daunting. Luckily, Meurer has her supportive husband by her side to help her at every step.

“My husband has been my number one supporter in this, just by encouraging me to follow my dreams and to not worry about failure.” Meurer says.

While modest and very down-to-earth, Meurer was happy to share just how far her business has come.

She noticed her orders steadily increasing, to the point that she unfortunately has to turn some customers away when she runs out of ingredients.

“I can only do so many boxes a day; they're very time-consuming. It really bothers me when I have to tell someone that I can’t make their box,” Meurer says. However, this only further shows just how far Olive Bleu Charcuterie has come in building its clientele in a short amount of time.

In the future, Meurer hopes to open a storefront so her business can grow and gain more exposure. “I would like to possibly have a storefront here in Corpus and take my trailer to Fredericksburg, or to have my food truck at the wineries and sell from my trailer on the weekends.” For now, you can find Olive Bleu's food trailer parked outside of Driftwood. Stop by, say hello, and treat yourself to one of her beautiful creations.

Contact: olivebleucc.com | @olivebleu_charcuterie_chic

LOOKING BACK

Nueces County Government’s Start

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

If you reference “the old courthouse,” most locals picture the same building: the 1914 courthouse that stands empty today. But for earlier generations, a different building built on the same property – purchased by the county from Henry Kinney – would have come to mind.

Nueces County was officially organized in 1846, and work began to establish Corpus Christi as its county seat. The early governance of the county took place in county officials’ homes, but they soon needed a building to take care of county business and legitimize the growing county’s government.

Set back at the center of this image is the building designed by Felix von Blucher, which was built in the 1850s at a cost of

$4,000. The growing city already needed additional space by 1875, when they built the Hollub Courthouse, named for its designer. It was built in Greek Revival and Italianate style with a wooden portico and staircase. The previous courthouse continued to be used concurrently, with city offices filling that space, but the Hollub Courthouse’s days were short-lived. Both buildings were demolished to clear room for the 1914 courthouse – the one we today call “the old courthouse.”

The quick progression of courthouses built on this piece of property shows just how quickly Kinney’s little trading post on the Nueces grew into the city we know today.

A postcard features two of Nueces County’s first courthouses, including the Hollub Courthouse.

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