Discover 361 June July 2023

YOUR VIEW OF THE CROSSROADS

INSIDE

FOOD FEATURE DINING IN PARADISE

Hello Readers, Thank you for reading our summer Discover 361. This month we focus on summer and the coast. What a way to start the season. I grew up almost on the coast – about 20 miles inland. Our trips to the beach were always filled with fun times and relaxation. Now, many years later, when I have a chance to go to the beach I will happily take it. I enjoy the breeze and salty air. The warm water, cool sand, seashells and, of course, the gulls flying overhead.

I’m not much for sitting and reading while at the beach. I want to be moving, either playing in the water or walking along the shore. A trip to the beach is the best way to relax after long weeks of daily routine.

This issue takes you on a tour of many of the beaches from Magnolia Beach to Padre Island National Seashore near Corpus Christi.

If beachcombing is not for you, how about a day trip to Corpus Christi? The city known as the “Sparkling City by the Sea” has plenty to offer, from waterside parks to the Selena Museum to the Botanical Gardens, the State Aquarium and the USS Lexington. Plus, you can take in a game at Whataburger Field, home of the Triple A baseball team the Hooks. The city offers a wide assortment of eateries as well.

If you want a slower pace of life, take a short drive to Rockport. Select from a variety of housing rentals to call home during your stay. Enjoy the beach and then head to Poor Man’s Country Club for a relaxed and friendly meal overlooking the Little Bay. If you want to eat on the water, then head to Paradise Key, where you will dine in paradise watching dolphins playing in the bay and boaters passing by.

You can also visit the newly opened Rockport Center for the Arts. With a lot of support from the community it was rebuilt after Hurricane Harvey destroyed the former center in 2017. It is an architectural masterpiece to be enjoyed by all.

Back inland, enjoy a visit with Geri Schroeder. Aside from her long banking career, she has made her mark in the nonprofit community. She has served on a long list of committees helping the community in so many different ways.

Local musicians the Staudt Brothers also talk about what motivates them to make music.

Enjoy reading your magazine and enjoy your summer.

Becky Cooper Managing Editor

GENERAL MANAGER

George Coleman

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER

Kyle Motal

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Keith Kohn

MANAGING EDITOR

Becky Cooper

DESIGNER

Kimberley Bailey

WRITERS

Leo Bertucci

Becky Cooper

Kyle R. Cotton

Keith Kohn

Gabe Myers

Jon Wilcox

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Chase Cofield

Keith Kohn

Duy Vu

SPECIAL TO DISCOVER 361

Catherine Kohn

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Dayna Wiles | Images By Dayna

ON THE COVER

Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Duy Vu

© 2023, M. ROBERTS MEDIA 101 W. Goodwin Ave., Suite 1200

Victoria, TX 77901

info@discover361.com 361-575-1451

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8

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Rockport Center for the Arts gets down to business.

14

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

Geri Shroeder focuses on building relationships to build a better community.

18

DAY TRIP

Relax among the Sparkling City by the Sea.

25 DAY TRIP

Take a trip down the coast to enjoy a day at the beach.

30

FASHION

Feel classy and confident in this summer's fashions.

40

VISUALS

Coastal home rentals offer variety for stay in Rockport.

46

FOOD

Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill serves up dishes with a view.

51

FOOD

American bar food recipes from Poor Man's Country Club.

68

CULTURE & EVENTS: MUSIC

The Staudt Brothers band know how to have a good time while playing and hanging with friends.

72

ABOUT TOWN

Photo gallery of the Innovation Collective's 2023 Think Festival.

79

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Preview of what is up and coming for the Crossroads during June through August.

in Rockport REBIRTH

Rockport Center for the Arts gets down to business

STORY BY CATHERINE KOHN |

SPECIAL TO DISCOVER 361

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DUY VU | DVU@VICAD.COM , AND CONTRIBUTED BY EVELYN ATKINSON

From trials to triumph — it’s been a long five-year road in the evolution of the Rockport Center for the Arts. The center has long been an integral part of the town’s well-known focus on the visual arts but was confined by its home for many years.

All that changed with the arrival of its executive director, Luis Purón, and a hurricane named Harvey.

Purón, 59, arrived in Texas from Pennsylvania in 2014, where he was working in the biotechnology sector. He had traveled extensively, visiting Europe and South America and loved working on the East Coast.

But as fate would have it, Purón’s brother happened to see a job posting for executive director of the Rockport Center for the Arts and sent him a message about it.

Purón is passionate about art. “I love art. I'm a collector of art. My brother's an artist, my sister was a professional ballerina. So, it's in the family. I never studied art, I always wanted to. But, you know, I went in a different direction. I like numbers and I like finance. And so, I went in that direction — into the business world.”

Purón said he accepted the position “because I knew there was a capital

project already in mind.” Even though no real strategic planning had begun, meetings were being held about the location of a new building.

When Purón began his tenure as director in 2015 the arts center was located in the Bruhl-O’Connor House, a historic Victorian 5,700 square foot home that had been donated to the Rockport Art Association in 1983. The association became the Rockport Center for the Arts in 1992.

However, in August 2017 Hurricane Harvey swept across Rockport with 130

Art Center Building in 1986 Art Center Building in 2005 Art Center Building in the 1990s

The front of the Rockport Center for the Arts which was constructed after the original building was destroyed by Hurricane Harvey in 2017.

mph winds and devastated the town, including the arts center.

“It was a total loss,” Purón said.

The beautiful old building was demolished in May 2018 and the organization moved from one location to another while maintaining its programming for the community despite the hardships.

Those original modest facilities were dramatically different from the spacious, modern multi-use $12.5 million campus now situated on Austin Street in downtown Rockport. It had its grand opening in December.

This new center offers 22,000 square feet of dedicated space for multiple galleries, art education classrooms, a clay studio and the ROCC Rockport Conference Center available for events with a catering kitchen that is also used for culinary classes. Between the two buildings visitors enjoy the center’s sculpture garden.

“Before the storm, we might have had 1,000 visitors per month in the slow months and about 2,000 in the heavy season, equating to about 24,000 visitors just at the art center every year — not in the festivals — just coming in to see the gallery, to take a class, to bring a child to a program, or to buy a gift in the gift shop,” Purón said. Since opening the new facility, they have, “24,000 net right now,” he said, adding, “our monthly attendance is averaging at about 4,000 in the slow season.”

Most people don’t think of the arts as a business, but Purón understands a town’s cultural hub must be run as a successful business to thrive.

“All businesses are about the same,” he explained. “They’re about customers, finance, funding, paying bills.”

Even a nonprofit must work financially, he emphasized. “Every program has to stand on its own. We’re not going to borrow from one program to sustain another program. That’s not the way we run this arts center.”

Purón said every activity has its own standalone budget. “That’s why I think we’ve been so successful. We treated this nonprofit as a business operation that employs people, that cares for the people that work there, that takes care of its community. That’s the reason we do all this fundraising, and we keep our admission free, you know, because we are very successful at fundraising.”

The original emphasis of the center was visual arts and education, but with

the expanded facility they are able to include performance arts as well.

Vanessa Ormsby, the communications director for the center, said they are thrilled by the opportunity to bring talent such as the Adagio String Quartet to the town.

“They did a two-hour performance in the conference center, and it was wonderful,” she said enthusiastically. She explained that the conference center provides the ability to split the large space into smaller areas by adjusting the walls. “It was very intimate… almost like we were sitting there in our living room while they were playing. It was beautiful.”

Ormsby said the music series is a monthly offering.

“Our next one is BillyRay Sheppard. He's a jazz saxophonist. It’s going to be really good.”

Because of the new facility the organization has been able to grow their programs substantially, creating a multidisciplinary organization, Purón said. “Whereas before, we just really had two programs and now we have a whole lot of programs. Our art education programs are for adults, as well as children. And the programs that we offer for children are often offered free of charge.” He said many of their offerings are provided at reduced prices especially to its membership.

He described their visual arts as a “very prestigious program that we have grown thanks to our curator, Elena Rodriguez … And now we have exhibition spaces that were designed to be just that — galleries.”

After Hurricane Harvey, the organization didn’t know if they would be able to rebuild.

“After all, we are in a very small community of 10,000 people,” Purón noted. But Harvey became a national story and was covered by major publications and media organizations from across the country. The destruction of the arts center prompted an unexpected result.

“People started having fundraisers for us and then sending in money so that we could rebuild.”

Then, in March 2018, they launched a capital campaign, called “Imagine.” Purón said “it was about imagining the future of the arts in Rockport in our facility.”

It began as a $3 million project but

Executive Director Luis Purón

Communications Director Vanessa Ormsby

IF YOU GO:

ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

204 S. Austin St., Rockport, 361-729-5519

Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; from noon to 4 p.m. Sundays.

rockportcenter.com

La Terraza

Seadrift

Goliad

The chandelier "Exuberence" survived Hurricane Harvey in 2017, but was severely damaged. After being restored by Gini Garcia from Garcia Art Glass, it now hangs in the new building to greet visitors.

The community art exhibit at the Rockport Center for the Arts.

grew into a $12.5 million project. In addition to raising money locally and across Texas, they were able to get corporate foundations to invest in the rebuilding of the center as well.

Additional assistance came in the form of disaster recovery funds through the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration. Purón said there were “several things that we needed to have in place to accept funding from the EDA” to receive a proposed $5 million grant. “We had to have our own land, and we did. We had to have a match of $3.7 million, and we had that, and then we had to be able to partner with a civic organization. In other words, the city of Rockport. … And they became our partner in the project. … Now suddenly, we had a lot more money to do a lot more things, and to build a more resilient building.”

Purón said the center had always wanted to offer performing arts, culinary arts, visual arts and art education to the community but they “never really had the respectful space to be able to host all those activities. So, we would take a classroom and turn it into a boardroom, in the old building, we would take a gallery and turn it into a lecture hall, you know, we would take a gallery and turn it into a children's activity center, which means we were always adjusting the space. And so, in designing the space,

UPCOMING EVENTS

2023 ROCKPORT ART FESTIVAL

July 1 - From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

July 2 - From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Rockport Festival Grounds, 1500 E. Laurel St., Rockport

WOMEN ON THE VERGE OF A SILVER MELTDOWN

Oct. 26

Rockport Conference Center (The ROCC)

106 S. Austin St.

Tickets on sale starting Oct. 1

AUSTIN STREET ART WALK

Second Saturday of each month 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

the main thing that I wanted was to not have to do that anymore.”

As a businessman, Purón considers it vital to manage their budget carefully.

“I served on a lot of nonprofit boards in my career, and I saw the mistakes that organizations would make. They wouldn't plan for the future. They wouldn't save money. They would spend all their money by the end of the year thinking that that's what you should do. In our case, we cannot do that because our first quarter is our slowest quarter of the year. …In December, you've got to have some carryover balance to be able to meet your financial obligations… We take care of this nonprofit really, really well. And you know, our balance sheet has grown, our budget has grown tremendously in the last eight years. And I see nothing but growth in the future. We are doing incredibly well.”

The center does more than exhibit the work of artists. It also sells their work. An important part of their mission is to “turn artists into working artists who can make a career out of their art endeavors,” Purón explained. Artists keep 70% of the sale proceeds, and the center receives the balance. They also offer studio space where artists can hone their skills. Additionally, there is a gift shop.

The center sells artwork, gifts, jewelry, candles, T-shirts, tickets to concerts and more.

ART EXHIBITIONS AT ROCKPORT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Tejidos en Fierro: Brian Wedgworth (Jeanie and Bill Wyatt Gallery)

Through July 16

Confluence: Fernando Andrade (H-E-B Gallery)

Through June 11

Kent Ullberg (H-E-B Gallery)

June 16 - Aug. 6

Artistic Legacy: Past Poster Artists (McKelvey Charitable Fund Gallery)

June 9 - July 23

Debra Chronister (Jeanie and Bill Wyatt Gallery)

July 21 - Sept. 24

“We sell things people want, we don't sell things people need,” Purón said, proudly noting, “our sales report for March was $50,000. Every month, it seems to just get a little bit better.”

The growth in visitors and increased community involvement has always been the primary goal.

“We knew this was going to happen,” Purón said. “When we built these buildings, we knew it would bring more people. We wanted to share our success with our neighbors and to create true economic development through tourism.”

Service You Can Bank on

First Community Bank has been a part of the Victoria community since 2014. We’ve grown a lot since then, giving us the opportunity to serve the banking needs of even more of our Victoria neighbors.

We invite you to call us at (361) 578-9310 or stop by and talk with Monica for all your personal and business banking needs.

FEATURED

Monica Rodriquez Branch Manager/Loan O cer NMLS# 1164387

Debbie Minns gives tips and advice during a pastel drawing class.

Dinah Wicker works on her pastel drawing during a class.

Artwork hangs in the McKelvey Charitable Fund Gallery.

Geri Schroeder loves being a volunteer and she encourages others to join her. “Don't hesitate,” she advises. “Pick something that you are interested in. Or that you want to learn about, is another way to look at it. The people that you meet — you'll be friends forever with them.”

Whether it’s the United Way, Victoria Bach Festival, Victoria Symphony Orchestra, Cancer Society, Red Cross, Victoria Fine Arts Association, VISD Education Foundation, the Bronte Club, or most recently the Children’s Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent, Schroeder has consistently spent her “spare” time in Victoria as an officer or board member on a wide variety of organizations that are deeply involved in improving the community’s quality of life.

Schroeder was born and raised in Yorktown. She and her husband Phil have two daughters and one granddaughter. She came to Victoria in 1982 when she began working at a small savings bank. With an accumulated 42 years of banking experience, she was promoted at the end of last year to banking center president for the Prosperity Bank Victoria Salem Banking Center in the Heritage Mark Building on North Navarro Street.

“Prosperity Bank is a huge supporter of the community,” Schroeder said. “We give a lot of dollars to different organizations, and there's so many. I mean, you know, back in the day, when we first started out, there was maybe a handful of nonprofits, but now there're so many — so many needs out there for different things.”

She enjoys her banking career, which she said has been increasingly challenging over the years with the advent of new technologies. “Everything's just going so fast, so quick,” she said, adding that she feels grateful to work with a wonderful team of colleagues. |

Her passion for volunteer work began when she was working at South Texas Savings with Janet Miller, who was the bank’s CEO at that time. Miller was heavily involved with the Victoria Bach Festival, serving on its board of directors. “So, I helped her with different things and then became involved with the American Cancer Society and we did the Cattle Baron's Ball, and so I chaired that for several years,” Schroeder said.

Schroeder is the past president of the Victoria Fine Arts Association. David Faskas, the organization’s current president, said Schroeder is the longest serving member of the VFAA.

“She brought a wealth of experience from other nonprofit organizations that she was involved in to take us to new heights and help form a new vision of who we are and what we do,” Faskas said. “That impact has remained a part of who we are today. She has worked to establish partnerships with other boards that she serves on as well, such as the Victoria Symphony and Children’s Discovery Museum. She has stuck with the organization through difficult times and exciting times and that consistent dedication is rare.”

Schroeder is also a member of The Bronte Club, a federated club of about 100 mostly women. Formed in 1855, the Texas State Historical Society describes it as the oldest women’s literary club in Texas. The club’s lending library was a forerunner to the Victoria Public Library.

“We have speakers that come in and speak to us on different topics,” she said. One discussion was “about bees and what their pollination does for the ecosystem. And then we've had Ben Keating come in and talk about his race car driving.” Keating is an amateur racer who owns Keating Auto Group in Victoria.

For 43 years Victoria’s library was located in the building where the Nave Museum stands. Eventually, in 1975, the city built the present library in a building owned by the county.

“That's one of the reasons why we have the Bronte Room in the library,” Schroeder said. “We were one of the founders of the library. … After we have a speaker, we donate a book and have the book inscribed with their name in it. And then we present that to the library at the end of the year for all our speakers.”

When part of the VISD Education

Foundation, Schroeder said she especially loved traveling on the school bus to present grant awards to teachers across the district. “Oh my god, that was the most eye-opening experience I've ever had,” she exclaimed. “The kids are just amazing.”

The foundation members even brought a band with them to add to the festive experience.

Robin Harkey, executive director

of the VISD Education Foundation, said Schroeder’s involvement with the organization “brought financial experience to the table and an understanding of the challenges and opportunities Crossroads area nonprofits face.”

“Geri is a beaming example of the power of building relationships in the community,” Harkey said. “Her friendly spirit is like a welcoming friend who

Geri Schroeder speaks with members of the community while volunteering at Downtown Rhythms in Victoria.

Geri Schroeder hugs an attendee at Downtown Rhythms in Victoria.

makes you feel seen, heard, and more importantly, understood.”

Faskas agrees with Harkey’s assessment. “Geri is genuine and giving,” he said. “She is a great collaborator and her open-mindedness and willingness to consider different viewpoints make her invaluable to any board she is on.”

Volunteering, Schroeder said, is “not only fun, but to me, that's the way you get to meet new people. I mean, in my line of business you need to meet people. When you get involved in an organization, and you're passionate about it, and you meet others that are passionate about the same thing, you have a common thread.” She said before you know it “one thing leads to another, and you develop a friendship.”

Her present passion is the Children's Discovery Museum of the Golden Crescent. “That's one of my favorites, and I have a lot of favorites. But that's one of my top ones.”

The big need at the children’s museum is developing funding for exhibits. “They're so expensive,” she said, emphasizing that it’s important to arrange for traveling exhibits “to keep the museum fresh for children.”

Some of that expense has to do with storage and installation. “Once you get them (exhibits), then you have to store their boxes that they came in. You have to find a storage area to house those

boxes, trunks. And then you have to get them installed, you have to rebuild them. And then you have to take them down and the shipping is really another big factor.”

The museum also wants to expand the exhibits to provide more activities for older children as many families have multiple children and there is a need to engage tweens as well as toddlers and elementary age kids.

The original location of the museum was near downtown and lacked necessities such as parking space for school buses, so the move to its large building on Sam Houston Drive in 2017 generated a great deal of enthusiasm. But then the shadow of COVID-19 struck. The pandemic meant the museum was shut down for close to two years. It was a difficult time, she said.

The children’s museum is “just so important for our community. Because there's not a (children’s) museum around until you get to Houston or San Antonio,” she said.

Schroeder’s enthusiasm for places such as the Children’s Discovery Museum in Victoria is legendary. Faskas said, “Geri has probably served on every

nonprofit in Victoria. Her long standing service is a model for others to aspire to. It’s one thing to serve a term for a few years, it’s something completely different to be dedicated for decades. Geri’s commitment to the community is reflective of her character. She is a dedicated volunteer, and her dedication is only matched by her kindness and generosity. She is truly an asset to our community.”

Schroeder hopes to spread the word that helping others strengthens your community. She advises potential volunteers to make their decision as to where to donate their time and energy thoughtfully.

“Do your research… if you're not really focused on an organization, or if it's not something you really want to be involved in, then it's probably not the right fit for you. But there's one out there for you, you’ve just got to make sure your needs align with their mission. And if you are into that, then, it is definitely worthwhile. It's not only fulfilling to yourself, but also to the community as well.”

Geri Schroeder volunteers with the Victoria Symphony Orchestra during Downtown Rhythms.

Aday trip to Corpus Christi is about more than going to the beach.

While there are several beaches to explore in the city, Corpus Christi also offers shopping, plants, museums, restaurants, coffee shops and more.

With it being summer, plenty of people will flock to Corpus Christi to experience the city nicknamed “the Sparkling City by the Sea.”

Whenever visiting a city, downtown is a hotspot as visitors look for things to do and restaurants to try.

Corpus Christi’s downtown area offers a wide variety of things to do and see and places to eat and relax.

RELAXATION

A five minute walk from the heart of downtown is Water’s Edge Park. The park is typically filled with locals from across the community enjoying the basketball court, walking trail and the dog park. The park spans more than 20 acres, so even on the busiest of days it will not feel crowded. It’s aptly named with the water just a few feet away.

Also a few steps away from Water’s Edge Park is the Selena Quintanilla memorial statue, also referred to as ‘Mirador De La Flor.’

A SMORGASBORD OF FOOD

After time at the park it’s likely you will have worked up an appetite.

Restaurants along Water Street offer something for everyone. The Executive Surf Club is one of the most popular restaurants in the downtown area.

At lunchtime, a mix of locals, visitors, young adults and families enjoy the restaurant. In the evening, the Surf Club has live music every night. It is also one of the most popular happy hour hangout spots.

The Executive Surf Burger is one of the restaurant’s most popular items, featuring refried beans, Fritos and salsa to go along with the traditional burger fixings of meat, cheese and onions.

If you’re wanting an appetizer, give the nachos a try. The kitchen staff handcrafts each individual chip making sure meat, cheese and beans are on every chip. They leave the sour cream, pico de gallo, jalapenos and guacamole on the side for those wanting a little something extra.

If you want to sit down and perhaps unwind on Water Street, the Water Street Oyster Bar is one of the most

well known and established restaurants in the city. Recently renovated, the restaurant is almost always filled with other seafood hungry folks. An oyster shucker estimates the restaurant goes through 1,500 oysters a day.

The restaurant has its main dishes on the menu, which feature a seafood pasta jambalaya and the mesquite grilled sampler, which contains the catch of the day, but most patrons order from the restaurant’s massive blackboard which is updated daily.

Oyster Bar also features a new addition, the Sushi Room in the back of the restaurant.

After the delicious meal, it is time for something sweet. Head to Central Kitchen. The bakery features fresh baked bread and sweets and the ambience is reminiscent of a cafe you would see on TV. With many things to try, you cannot go wrong with any of their treats, but the coffee cake and cinnamon rolls are outstanding.

As soon as you walk out of Water Street, make your way to Chaparral Street, which is right in the middle of the downtown mural trail. Several colorful murals throughout downtown have helped give Corpus Christi’s downtown a distinctive look.

BIG SHIP AND SEA CREATURES

Within sight of downtown and just a short drive over the harbor bridge is the USS Lexington Museum and the Texas State Aquarium, which are side by side.

On the Lexington’s flight deck you can see many airplanes, with some dating back to World War II. For the “Top Gun” fans out there, you can even catch a glimpse of the F-14 Tomcat, which was flown by Maverick in the movie. Below the flight deck, the Lexington features a Pearl Harbor exhibit and a flight simulator for those wanting a glimpse into what flying a military plane is like.

At the Texas State Aquarium, you can lay your eyes on seemingly every fish in the sea. From goldfish and jellyfish and all the way up to sharks. The Dolphin Bay outside gives you a chance to be up close and personal with one of the sea’s most popular creatures. You can even get a look at them from below.

Customers eat lunch at the Executive Surf Club.

The Texas State Aquariam is located across from the USS Lexington.

The USS Lexington is home to the USS Lexington Museum in Corpus Christi.

Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum presents

LIMITED TIME ONLY a MAY 5 – AUGUST 26, 2023

Black Cowboys: An American Story was developed by the Witte Museum, San Antonio (WitteMuseumorg). The exhibition is presented by Bank of America and generously supported by the John L. Santikos Charitable Fund of the San Antonio Area Foundation, H-E-B and Ed Rachal Foundation. George McJunkin photo: © Denver Museum of Nature and Science.

Bellevue Ranch

Gary & Mary Cox and Families

Patricia Muir

Grace Episcopal Church

Joe L. & Faye Sheppard

Mary Sheppard

Patricia & Judd Miller

302 North Esplanade | Cuero, Texas 77954

Customers eat during a busy lunch at the Water Street Oyster Bar.

The Executive Surf Club's iconic titular burger.

Beef Nachos from The Executive Surf Club.

Sushi is ready to be served at Water Street Oyster Bar.

Oysters get shucked at Water Street Oyster Bar.

A TRIBUTE TO SELENA

If you get away from North Beach and the downtown area, you can make your way to the Selena Museum, which to this day doubles as an active recording studio. You will walk right through the recording studio Selena Quintanilla used on your way into the museum. The museum is filled with Selena’s lavish outfits, highlighting her unique style. On the walls are numerous awards and tributes to her ability as a musician.

The clothes are really the star of the show with her signature purple jumpsuit on full display along with her red Porsche.

AFTERNOON BREAK

Nestled between downtown and Texas A&M Corpus Christi is Coffee Waves, a locally owned coffee shop that is a common hangout for locals. There are plenty of places to stop and wind down in Corpus Christi, but this coffee shop with its relaxed island vibe, friendly atmosphere and even a gelato selection is ideal regardless of who your traveling party is.

FLOWERS AND CRITTERS

Moving away from the downtown area and into the southside of town one the city’s most popular attractions is the Botanical Gardens. The gardens are not only filled with a multitude of plant life that will stimulate your senses of sight and smell, but also are filled with some of nature’s most interesting creatures.

While the aquarium gives you a look at life under the sea, the Botanical Gardens gives you an opportunity to see the creatures we share land with. Tortoises in their 70s, a multitude of parrots and many, many reptiles highlight the animals on site.

Also, with more than 70 birdhouses provided by the public, the Botanical Gardens is expecting to see a litany of bird species visiting the premises this summer.

AWE, BEACH TIME

Perhaps the most popular place to visit in the summer is Padre Island National Seashore. Many visitors will make their way to Padre Island to spend a day at the beach, enjoying the sand and surf and collecting a few seashells.

| CONT. ON PG. 24

Visitors can find a statue dedicated to Selena at Waterfront Park.

Coffee Waves remains a relaxed hangout for locals in Corpus Christi.

The interior of Coffee Waves.

A tortoise walks around The Botanical Gardens. Fans visit Whataburger Field to watch baseball.

The Corpus Christi Hooks play at Whataburger Field.

Ahi tuna tacos are served at Doc's Seafood Restaurant in Corpus Christi.

Jellyfish can be found at the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi.

Some of Selena's former outfits on display at the Selena Museum.

ENDING THE DAY

A great place to end the day and watch the sunset over the water is dinner at Doc’s right off the JFK causeway. At Doc’s, you can go lighter with some ahi tuna tacos which feature their house made avocado baja sauce or you can go big with a ribeye steak and bacon wrapped shrimp on the side. The bacon wrapped shrimp are good enough and hearty enough to be a meal on their own. Combine that with some roasted red potatoes and you will not be disappointed, especially while watching the sun set over the bay and listening to live music.

A cool feature of Doc’s is on the bottom floor — a bar with happy hour specials. It provides a comfortable spot to wait for your table. Locals like to dock their boats nearby and walk right up to the bar.

PLAY BALL!

In the summertime few things are more common than going to a baseball game. Whataburger Field, which hosts the Corpus Christi Hooks, provides that opportunity for anyone in town. Admission is as little as $6. The fan experience is exactly what you want from minor league baseball — theme nights, fireworks and dollar hot dogs on Sundays. If you want to take in a ball game, Corpus offers that.

Corpus Christi is known for its beaches and rightfully so, but the city offers so much more. Whether you’re going for the day or the weekend, with friends or as a family getaway, there is no shortage of things to do and enjoy in Corpus Christi.

Museums Unique

Recreation Historic

Waterfowl

Wining

Day

| CONT. FROM PG. 22

The Botanical Gardens provides visitors a place to enjoy plants of all types.

SHOULDN’T LIFE BE A

TAKE A DRIVE AND SEA FOR YOURSELF

STORY BY KEITH KOHN | KKOHN@VICAD.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEITH KOHN | KKOHN@VICAD.COM AND CHASE COFIELD | CCOFIELD@VICAD.COM

The drive to Corpus Christi can be as quick as 90 minutes – less if you speed. But there’s another way to the “Sparkling City by the Sea,” and that is by taking the beach route.

It would involve a drive to and through Rockport with its beaches, marina and shops; over a causeway and a ride on a quick ferry to Port Aransas;

and then a drive along a spit of land that hardly seems able to hold all the stilt homes, condos and kitschy roadside shops you’ll pass. Along this drive, you’ll be able to stop at a number of beaches accessible by foot or vehicle.

They say, “It's not the destination, it's the journey.” And they – in this case poet Ralph Waldo Emerson – were

precisely correct. This journey will go to city parks, a state park and a national seashore all en route to a perfect stop on a sandy shoreline.

LIGHTHOUSE BEACH

Lighthouse Beach in Port Lavaca is the closest beach to Victoria, with a drive just over a half-hour. Because it is protected by a barrier island, the water generally is calm. Because it is fed from the Gulf, it’s generally warm.

But the view is not as picturesque as

Top − Mustang Island State Park is a fun family spot. Left − The village of artsy shops and restaurants near the beach and marina in Rockport make an ideal destination when you need a break from the gentle waves. Right − A giant blue crab is big enough to provide shade at Rockport Beach, also known as Blue Crab Beach for obvious reasons.

others along the coast. To the left is a causeway leading to Point Comfort and the towers and buildings at Formosa Plastics. But to the right is a lovely view of the barrier islands.

There’s a boardwalk nearly a half-mile long and two playgrounds, one of which is a splash pad. In addition, there are over four-dozen spaces for campers and tents. You’ll have to pay to enter during the beach season.

MAGNOLIA BEACH PARK

More picturesque than Lighthouse Beach, Magnolia Beach Park has one disadvantage: Those shells on the shoreline hurt.

But if you wear water socks or water shoes, the shells should be no problem. You can park right up along the beach with your car, van or camper. The waves are regular, but not too intense most of the time, thanks to barrier islands.

If you like hunting for shells and other debris from the water, this is an ideal location.

From downtown Victoria, the drive to Magnolia Beach Park is under 45 minutes.

ROCKPORT

The municipal beach at Rockport, known as Blue Crab Beach for the iconic crab at its entrance, is adjacent to a fishing pier, a marina, shops and restaurants within walking distance. Parking costs $10 per day, but you can buy an annual pass for $40.

Because the beach is protected by a barrier island and a jetty, the waves are not as harsh as on the barrier islands. The beach is quite suitable for children to play close to the sand.

Shops nearby sell bait if you want to fish or get quick and convenient snacks and drinks to keep hydrated on the beach.

There is plenty of beach to meander, and shells aplenty at low tide.

ARANSAS PASS FERRY

Depending where you want to be on the barrier island, the Aransas Pass ferry might be just what you’re looking for, as it could cut dozens of miles off your trip.

Each ferry can hold just under two dozen vehicles and takes just a few minutes to cross Aransas Pass. It accommodates small campers and trailers.

It’s a fun ride and your only expense might be some time blown if there is

Just a quick walk from Rockport Beach is this collection welcoming families to the shopping area.

The USS Lexington is docked at Corpus Christi, just a stone's throw from North Beach.

A lending library of sorts for toys is stationed on the boardwalk at the Malaquite Pavilion visitor center at Padre Island National Seashore.

a long line of cars waiting, as no tolls are collected. Passengers are generally encouraged to turn off their engines. Walkers are welcome on the ferries, as well, and pets can board in vehicles or with walkers as long as they’re leashed.

IB MAGEE BEACH PARK, PORT ARANSAS

This park is just past an RV park, where campers can park for extended stays. The beach, just a bit beyond the RVs, is easy to access and, like most South Texas barrier island beaches, has a distinct chop to the water.

On windy days, be ready to enjoy the sand and stay close to shore to avoid the undertow.

Don’t be surprised if you see a windsurfer going back and forth on the water a couple hundred yards offshore, or campers, beachcombers and pets firmly on the sand. You might even see a seagull or two or two dozen congregate if someone tosses food their way. (Of course, that could infuriate your neighbor on the sand.)

All in all, it’s a pleasant park to enjoy and it’s not far from the island restaurants, bars and other attractions popular in Port Aransas.

MUSTANG ISLAND STATE PARK

There are no mustangs on the beach at Mustang Island State Park, at least not the four-legged variety. But those with wheels are welcome to cruise onto the sand and park for a while.

On any given day, the beach could be filled with cars, SUVs, walkers, dogs, wide swaths of sand and lots of birds.

The water has its share of chop and whitecaps, and it’s a good spot for family fun and entertainment. Watching the tide come in and go out couldn’t be more relaxing.

WHITECAP BEACH

The first thing you’ll notice when you get to Whitecap Beach isn’t the whitecaps rolling onto shore, though there are plenty of those. Rather, it’s the giant oil rig being assembled not far off the beach.

Then, there are those whitecaps. They just complement the sun, sand and people who love this fun beach that stretches about a mile toward Bob Hall Pier. The pier, which was damaged and closed in 2020 due to Hurricane Hanna, won’t be ready for use this summer, but

Sailboats in the marina are a block from Rockport Beach.

A motorist and his dog take in the sun at IB Magee Beach Park in Port Aransas.

One of two playgrounds at Lighthouse Beach in Port Lavaca.

Lighthouse Beach remains a popular spot for fishing in Port Lavaca.

maybe it’ll be open a year or two down the road.

Still, the beach is just a walk away from restaurants and shops along South Padre Island Drive.

PADRE ISLAND NATIONAL SEASHORE

Padre Island National Seashore encompasses a large expanse of North Padre Island, but the most popular beach is near the Malaquite Visitor Center.

Near the center is a campground for trailers, motorhomes and tents. In addition, just down the road is beach access for vehicles and beach camping.

The beaches are about as pristine as one could find, since the National Park Service protects the shore and wildlife from most encroachment. The drive down to the park’s visitor center is pleasant. Be prepare to pay an entry fee to the National Park Service.

The visitor center has good showers, restrooms, a gift shop and a beach toy exchange. Yes, a beach toy exchange so kids can take a toy and leave a toy to share with others.

One thing you’ll notice about the beach – other than the visitor center and support structures, there are pretty much

no buildings. Just you, nature and the waves. Of course, washing up on shore during a recent visit were unwanted visitors, Portuguese man o'war. A lot of them. The creatures look like blue balloons on the beach, but they have long tails that float in the water with them (and lie on the beach with them) which can sting a person who isn’t attentive. If you can, keep Adolph’s meat tenderizer with you; rubbing it onto a sore spot thanks to the man o’war will ease the pain.

NORTH BEACH, CORPUS CHRISTI

This beach is in the heart of Corpus Christi’s tourist corridor, just a walk from the Texas State Aquarium about a half-mile away. Also close by is the USS Lexington, a World War II-era aircraft carrier that visitors can tour.

The beach itself is off Corpus Christi Bay and has a great view of the carrier, which towers over everything around it but the city skyline in the distance.

The warm waters are calm to choppy, and the sand feels good under foot, with plenty of give and take for kids to build sand castles. If you go to North Beach, check out some of the nearby restaurants and pubs, or travel into downtown and experience a variety of dining, drinking and tourist options.

Courtesy of Google maps

The Halfmoon Reef Lighthouse is near the entrance to Lighthouse Beach and is the oldest surviving wooden lighthouse structure in Texas, according to the city.

FASHIONS Summertime

STORY BY BECKY COOPER | BCOOPER@VICAD.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAYNA WILES | IMAGES BY DAYNA

MODELS

DENISE DLUGOSCH, KAITLIN ECKHARDT, KARISSA WINTERS AND ALLISON LACEY

CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY BEAUTIFOUR

MAKEUP FOR KARISSA WINTERS AND ALLISON LACEY

ARIANNA LOBO

HAIR FOR KARISSA WINTERS AND ALLISON LACEY

TIMMY WINDOSKEY, BEEHIVE SALON

Karissa wear a one-size fits most wrap dress, while Allison wears a maxi sundress. Denise wears a yellow maxi sundress made of satin and Kaitlin wears a hot pink silk dress.

Front, Kaitlin wears a wrap top with flutter sleeves and white denim shorts; left, Allison wears a light weight silk jacket and shorts suit; Denise wears a rainbow knit sweater and boxer shorts; Karissa wears a one-size fits most shirt with tank, exposed button high-rise shorts and a floppy hat.

Feeling classy and confident for the summer

Cool, free-flowing sundresses are fashionable almost anywhere you go this summer.

The dresses are casual enough to lounge around the house or to sit on the patio visiting with friends and neighbors.

Add a hat and some bejeweled sandals and the dress is ready for a day of shopping or even a fun lunch with friends and family.

If you want to take that one step further, add a nice summer jacket over the dress and you are ready for a day at your office or a nice evening out with your spouse.

“When selecting sundresses, I like to think what could be the most versatile style so you can wear them multiple times in the season. I pick most of the dresses with solid colors and a few prints to keep the pieces timeless,” said Denise Dlugosh, owner of Beautifour in Victoria and Cuero.

Beautifour, which is mostly an online store, is a game changer for women who have trouble finding staple pieces they can style multiple ways.

“We try to teach our customers how to get more out of their clothing. I would get frustrated after making an investment in a super cute piece of clothing and then being disappointed when I only got one or two wears out of it,” Dlugosh said. “We try to show after you wear it to a summer wedding you can turn around and wear it the next week to your brunch date with the girls or lounging around on your couch

Island Time top and skirt are sold separately. The crop top has button detail down the back and flower print. The skirt carries the beautiful hibiscus print with an elastic waist. Leather band is called Rugged.

HERE IN TEXAS, FORTUNE FAVORS THE BOLD.

SILVERADO TRAIL BOSS

It was built to take Texans just about anywhere, because around here, adventure is everywhere. Offering a 2-inch lift straight from the factory, the Z71 Off-Road Package, Goodyear Wrangler DuraTrac® Mud Terrain tires and an automatic locking rear differential. So the only thing you’ll need is a destination.

| CONT. FROM PG. 33

the next week, and then to the office at work the next, the possibilities are endless.”

The beauty of summer clothes is you can dress them up or down without having to have a whole separate wardrobe each time you want to wear nice cool summer clothes.

If you have spent only one summer in the Crossroads, you know how hot and miserable the weather can get this time of year. There is no need to be miserable in your clothing of choice.

Summer styles help you to transition from work to casual in a flash of a second – that’s not quite as fast as Clark Kent transforming to Superman, but it is quick.

Crop tops are trending this summer. Paired with matching shirts, they make an adorable ensemble for a night out after work. You can adjust how the skirt

| CONT. ON PG. 38

Left & Right − Shaded silk leopard print dresses are to die for. They can be a dress on their own, or a shirt tucked into your favorite jean shorts, or even swimsuit coverup. You will love how lightweight and silky smooth it feels.

Kaitlin wears a white knit swimsuit cover up while Denise wears a crochet dress swimsuit cover.

| CONT. FROM PG. 36

fits depending on how much of your midsection you want to show.

Shorts are fashionable this season as well. The boxer shorts are trending in bright colors that say “hey summer we are ready for you,”

Longer dress shorts, accompanied by a coordinating jacket and top are also heading to work as acceptable dress.

The amazing thing about shorts is you can change the top from a work dress to a sporty spaghetti strap to be ready to head to the park or volleyball courts with friends.

Clothes are made to accent all body types.

“We want women to feel confident and classy while still being super stylish. I am a mom of five and my body has changed a lot over the last 12 years, so my confidence also changed and I wasn’t sure what I could pull off at certain times of my life. Now that I’ve lived through all the trials, I feel I’ve learned a few lessons that I want women to understand. Women need to love what they are wearing in all stages of life.”

Left − This hot pink silk dress, Malibu, has a wrap v-neck top with a side zip. Pearla, the stylish jellystyle sandal. Ideal, the wristlet has bright colors. Right − Skirt is from Oz in a beautiful emerald green color. Polished is a sleeveless woven bodysuit with a V-neck. The crossbody bag, called Road Trip, has a beautiful Aztec print.

ABOUT THE STORE

Mainly an online store, but Mother Cluckers location in downtown Victoria, 108 E. Santa Rosa St., carries all the seasonal pieces. The Cuero store, 109 Cooperative Way, is open to call-ahead shopping. They accept personal shopping clients by appointment, 361-799-4011.

Carry sizes XS to XL but will soon add plus sizes up to 3XL.

They also carry shoes, jewelry, handbags/purses, hair accessories, hats, sunglasses, belts and larger weekender bags.

Denise wears a silk/satin blend skirt with three layers with a woven fabric tank top. Kaitlin wears a neon red A-line skirt with a satin print top.

HOME HOME away from

STORY BY KYLE R. COTTON | KCOTTON@VICAD.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHASE COFIELD | CCOFIELD@VICAD.COM

Rockport offers vacation homes GALORE

Stilt homes on the left, overlooking the whitecaps rolling onto the shore, with an RV park or two nearby. Bed and breakfast inns nestled in charming neighborhoods that are not far from the water’s edge. Or that gulfside inn offering convenience and a trip back in time.

And any of these could be home to visitors — for a week or two.

Clearly, Rockport has become a destination. Not just a destination for sportsmen and women who want to go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico or a nearby bay heading to open waters. Now, a quaint arts community has settled on the downtown shopping strip, adding a diversity of experiences available in the community just an hour or so from Victoria.

Short-term rentals are there to accommodate these visitors. Visitors

who will gladly spend hundreds of dollars a night to live on “island time” for a week or two.

But it wasn’t always like this.

When Hurricane Harvey hit Texas in 2017, counties up and down the coast had to rebuild from the devastation.

Rockport was no different.

Six years later, Rockport has bounced back, going from a small Texas coastal fishing town to a destination where people want to go for a getaway, said Bev Gilbreath, co-chair of RockportFulton Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center short-term rental committee.

Since 2020, active rentals in Rockport have increased dramatically from 794 at the beginning of 2020 to 1,249 as of this April, according to Airdna

The patio for the Circle P Coastal home.

The Circle P Coastal is one of Rockport Home Rental's many rental properties.

Marketminder, a 57% increase in active rentals in the market.

That growth and variety is visible as motorists drive around Rockport.

ANGEL ROSE BED AND BREAKFAST

Angel Rose Bed and Breakfast, the home of Rockport residents Rusty and Jennifer Day, is getting a facelift.

The bed and breakfast is in the historic Bracht home. The Bracht family was key in helping establish Rockport. They also helped settle German immigrants coming to Texas in the late 1800s, Rusty Day said.

The bed and breakfast has been closed since the hurricane as repairs are made. It is expected to reopen to visitors this summer vacation season.

The Days received an Emergency Supplemental Historic Preservation Fund disaster grant to repair the hurricane damage. The grant came from the National Park Service and is administered through the Texas Historical Commission.

Getting the funding to make the repairs has been an extensive and challenging process. Because of the age of the home and furnishings, almost everything needs to be custom ordered, Day said.

“We’re hoping the last part of this exterior renovation is going to be finished in time for the summer season,” he said. “We’ll probably open with a soft opening to see how much we can handle these days because we will stay busy just one right after another during the summer.”

The inside of the Victorian home is a beautiful quaint place with a parlor and living room to relax in, three master bedrooms and a small library.

The home is a few blocks from Rockport’s art district and the bay.

The Days serve as concierge and cooks for their guests. They provide a breakfast that includes home-cooked meals such as stuffed French toast, eggs Benedict, fresh fruit and more.

“I serve them a breakfast. They sit at my 100-year-old table and we serve them a breakfast,” Day said.

As hosts, they also tell guests about some of the places around town to visit, the restaurants and the house's history.

“Generally, our guests just want to come here, sleep peacefully, enjoy the quiet, eat a big breakfast and enjoy their day,” Day said. “Usually, we won’t

Jimmy Henderson, Jimmy Parker, John Powell enjoy a relaxing day at Aransas Bay outside Lighthouse Inn.

The Edgewater Escape provides renters a place to stay.

The Lighthouse Inn at Aransas Bay.

see them until the evening.”

Because of the age of the furnishings and the difficulty in replacing them if damaged, children under age 11 can’t stay at the bed and breakfast, he said.

It will take a while for the bed and breakfast to get its reservation infrastructure back up and running, so it's hard to offer advice on when to make a reservation, Day said. But, once relaunched, a night at Angel Rose will cost $200.

THE LIGHTHOUSE INN AT ARANSAS BAY

If someone is looking for more traditional lodging, The Lighthouse Inn at Aransas Bay is an option. But securing a reservation during the summer months is particularly challenging, Inn manager Rhonda Byars said.

It is worth checking availability because the Inn is right on the water where visitors can enjoy the waves crashing against the waterfront and seagulls singing overhead.

“I’ve never been here, my brother

invited us out here, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed myself,” said Jimmy Henderson, 68, of Houston. “I like the tranquility of everything. It's peaceful. I could sit here and listen to this water forever.”

The Lighthouse Inn was closed for a year after Hurricane Harvey. It slowly became operational. It has returned to being a relaxing destination with a restaurant that serves breakfast and dinner, a full-service bar, a library, a garden, a pool and breathtaking views. All of which are within walking distance of fishing and a short drive everywhere else around the area.

“When you’re here, you’re on island time,” Byars said.

Byars said the Inn is great for families or anyone looking for a quiet coastal getaway this summer, noting particularly the friendliness of the residents of Rockport, who are always willing to help out.

While it may be challenging to get a reservation at the Inn during

Lighthouse Inn’s pool.

One of the decorations at the Edgewater Escape condo.

the summer, she said it's worth calling to see if a room is available or if there was a last-minute cancellation to accommodate them.

“Just keep calling. You never know what may be available,”

SHORT-TERM RENTALS AND RV PARKS

Visitors who want a bit more private space, short-term rentals and RV parks are the way to go, said Gilbreath and Summer Terrell, co-chair of the Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center short-term rental committee.

Whether it is a multi-room condo, a home on a canal, a home on stilts, or simply something secluded with its own pool, there is something for everyone. Last minute bookings are usually available, they said.

“You may not get your first choice, but there will usually be something available for you to rent,” Terrell said.

In the wake of Harvey, many homes were destroyed. While many owners rebuilt, some of the former owners moved, creating space for short-term rental properties in the Rockport-Fulton area, Gilbreath said.

“It’s a great way to have your own space where you can relax and not have to worry about people intruding,” said Terrell, who is also general manager of Miss Kitty’s Fishing Getaways, a shortterm rental agency in the area.

It’s perfect for families where some family members can spend the day fishing, while others opt to go shopping, take in art galleries or enjoy the walking trails and beaches.

To rent a short-term vacation rental, it is best to book directly with a local agency rather than going through an app like Airbnb or VRBO, as those apps have service charges that increase the rental price, Terrell said.

People who prefer to travel with their lodging with an RV, it is best to reserve a spot at the local RV parks at least two weeks in advance, she said.

“Since Harvey, we’ve had some closures of some businesses, but we’ve had some stronger businesses take their place,” Gilbreath said. “We’ve grown to be more than a small fishing town. It’s still a quiet coastal town with many friendly people willing to lend a hand, but there is so much to do and enjoy.”

The dining room in Angel Rose Bed and Breakfast.

Angel Rose Bed and Breakfast’s living room.

One of the bedrooms guests can stay in at Angel Rose Bed and Breakfast.

Paradise

It's all in the name and atmosphere

“Welcome to paradise.”

This is what Steve Cuomo, the general manager of Paradise Key Dockside Bar and Grill in Rockport, says when he sees customers walking in. The atmosphere is relaxed. Boats surround the cove and flocks of shorebirds enjoy the estuary.

“It’s a full-on experience, kind of like a Disneyland-like attraction,” Cuomo said moments after a pod of dolphins brought out oohs and ahs from customers dining on the back porch.

As for the food, Paradise Key has crawfish, fried shrimp and the popular pecan crusted snapper, but Cuomo said the restaurant offers more than just seafood. Steaks, burgers, pasta and a variety of desserts, like chocolate bread pudding, are also on the menu.

“The diversity in our menu for seafood lovers, meat lovers and everything in between, our menu caters to everybody,” Cuomo said.

When ordering alcohol, customers may notice the selection of craft beers made in Texas, like Shiner Beer’s TexHex Bruja’s Brew IPA and the Hefeweizen from Nueces Brewing Company in Corpus Christi.

“We have a huge assortment of Texas liquors, Texas vodkas, rums and tequilas,” Cuomo said.

On a sunny afternoon in April, Baffin Bay fishing guide Reanna De La Cruz enjoyed a chicken walnut salad and a pina colada. She came to Paradise Key with her friend Virginia Webb and her 2-year-old daughter, Amanda.

“Whenever I come here, this is my favorite place for food,” De La Cruz, 25, said. “This is also my parents’ favorite place. I took them here for their 30th wedding anniversary.”

Webb, a small business owner in Rockport, said she visits Paradise Key once a week, often after work. Her favorite dishes are the crusted snapper, shrimp etouffee and the mahi-mahi tacos.

“I come here for the great service and the great view,” Webb, 58, said. “They also have the best margaritas in town.”

For those who like to pair dinner with live music, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights include just

STORY BY LEO BERTUCCI | LBERTUCCI@VICAD.COM

The front of Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill in Rockport.

The view from the deck at Paradise Key Dockside Bar & Grill in Rockport.

Smoke comes off the fish and steak.

Petey Ybarra cooks up a burger.

It’s a full-on EXPERIENCE , kind of like a DISNEYLAND-LIKE ATTRACTION - Steve

Cuomo

Brie Rowe puts a cherry on top of the mango castaway, a cocktail consisting of mango puree, aged rum and coconut rum.

that at Paradise Key. Cuomo said contemporary and upbeat soft rock is the typical genre of tunes customers hear at the restaurant.

Paradise Key has a deal for fishermen who stop by the restaurant with their catch — give it to the staff and they will cook it for you.

“That’s a big deal for a lot of folks who come into town because it’s the fishing that brings people to our town,” Cuomo said.

The dockside restaurant is at its busiest during spring break and the summer vacation season, Cuomo said. Any nearby festival, like the Texas SandFest in Port Aransas, means more customers for Paradise Key.

“We keep our eye on the calendar for Rockport and then we know how busy we are going to get,” Cuomo said.

There is something customers should know before they call the restaurant to check on available seating.

“We don’t do reservations, but we do have a call ahead list you can get on prior to coming in,” Cuomo said. “Say if you book a reservation for 7:30 and we’ve assigned a table for you, you might stay here for hours and enjoy the game on TV and the drinks.”

For the Paradise Key staff, “paradise” can be found on Rockport’s coast.

“If you’re looking for great food, great views and great service, this place has it all,” Cuomo said.

IF YOU GO:

PARADISE KEY

Summer Hours

Weekdays: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Weekends: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Address: 165 Cove Harbor

North, Rockport, Texas 78382

A boat cruises toward Cove Harbor.

Abi Ogle brings out the food for customers.

Reanna De La Cruz eats lunch with her daughter Amanda Grace Yaklin, 2.

IT’S AMERICAN BAR FOOD

STORY BY BECKY COOPER | BCOOPER@VICAD.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DUY VU | DVUY@VICAD.COM

Relaxed setting brings in friends and neighbors

This ain’t your grandma’s country club. Don’t look for a treelined entry or a French trained chef. Heck, don’t look for steak and champagne, either.

At Poor Man’s Country Club in Rockport the only place you will find a golf course is on one of the several televisions mounted on the walls that

broadcast sporting events among other shows.

There’s no need to dress in after-5 apparel either.

At Poor Man’s, comfortable casual is the dress of the day – that includes flip flops, shorts, jeans. tank tops and T-shirts supporting your favorite band, fishing gear or exercise equipment logo.

The comfortable atmosphere was the original design of the place. It remains that to this day.

“I thought I was going to open a place where my friends and I could sit around on Sundays drink beer and watch football on TV,” said Albert Mills,

Owner Albert Mills of Poor Man’s Country Club in Rockport.

who opened the restaurant in 2006.

That’s how it started, but before he knew it, Mills was adding on to the kitchen to accommodate the food requests.

They added a patio in the front that faces the Little Bay. On Tuesdays they offered oysters on the pit.

But to survive the hot coastal summers, in 2016 they closed in the patio, but the large windows still give diners a wide view of Little Bay, across the four-lane highway.

They offer a bar on the second floor where patrons get an unobstructed view of the bay. On the Fourth of July, it and the front yard area are popular places to sit to watch the fireworks show across the bay.

The brisk wind blowing on the second floor makes it hard to serve food there. Mills explained the wind is usually so strong it blows the food off the serving tray. He has ideas on how to remedy the problem, but he is not ready to discuss them.

The name Poor Man’s Country Club is a tribute to a barbecue and beer place Mills’ father operated in Houston for many years. It was called Poor Man’s, but gained the country club title in fun after he installed a putting green in the restaurant.

Mills worked there for years. Then after college, he worked for the Pappas chain of restaurants before going into the insurance business with his in-laws.

He later moved to Fulton, an area he grew up visiting with his parents.

“When I was a kid, I didn’t know anything existed beyond the bridge in Fulton.”

As the business has grown, so has the need for a larger kitchen. The kitchen has expanded twice and is at a point it needs to grow again, but he is not ready to knock out walls to build a larger kitchen. He has already moved his office to a separate building behind the restaurant so the kitchen could grow into this office.

Mills is quick to tell you the

CONT. ON PG. 54

BLACKENED FISH TACO WITH BLACK BEANS

PICO DE GALLO:

Use equal parts:

Onion

Jalapeno pepper

Tomato

Cilantro

DIRECTIONS:

Chop ingredients, mix together in a bowl.

DRESSING:

Ancho Chipotle Ranch Dressing

Mayonnaise

Worcestershire sauce

Mix ingredients. Let chill.

INGREDIENTS:

Fish filets

Blackening seasoning (1/3 portion of each)

Salt

Black pepper

Chili powder

Corn tortillas (2 per taco)

Oil

1 Tbls. butter

DIRECTIONS:

Heat cast iron skillet while preparing fish. Dredge fish in blackening seasoning. Add butter and fish to hot cast iron skillet.

Place tortillas in hot oil to crisp edges

ASSEMBLE:

Place fish in two tortillas per taco. Dress with pico de gallo and dressing.

BLACK BEANS:

2 cans black beans

1 can corn

Two cans Rotel tomatoes

1 onion

Pickled jalapenos

Cilantro

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Mix all ingredients in a pan. Cook for 2 hours on the stove. Serve hot.

Cook James Benningfield serves up burgers at Poor Man’s Country Club.

FRIED SHRIMP AND COLE SLAW

INGREDIENTS:

Clean and devein shrimp

Dredging Mix - Use equal parts:

Flour

Panko bread crumbs

Cornmeal – Zatarain brand seasoning

DIRECTIONS:

Mix dry ingredients. Dredge shrimp in the mix.

Fry shrimp in hot grease until golden.

COLE SLAW INGREDIENTS:

Carrots

Cabbage Green Onions

DIRECTIONS:

Chop the ingredients. Place in a large bowl.

DRESSING:

1/3 cup each

Vinegar Milk

Mayonnaise

DIRECTIONS:

Combine dressing, pour over cabbage, carrots, green onions. Chill before serving.

biggest mistake he has made with the restaurant was not building the kitchen larger in the beginning.

Poor Man’s doesn’t serve steak because they don’t have space for a flame grill to properly cook them.

So instead, diners have a large assortment of fried and grilled foods to select from.

“It is American bar food,” Mills said matter-of-factly, nothing fancy, but everything is made to order.

ONION RINGS

INGREDIENTS:

Large onions

Flour

Salt (to taste)

Pepper (to taste)

Milk Eggs

DIRECTIONS:

Mix milk and eggs, the amount varies depending on the number of rings prepared.

Clean onion, slice into rings. Combine flour, salt and pepper, again the amount varies depending on number of rings prepared.

bread pudding and key lime pies.

The full-service bar serves drinks from cold beer to mixed drinks, wine and more.

Poor Man’s is starting to take on a country club appearance, of sorts, as groups come to play cards, such as gin rummy. One group of women also plays mahjong.

On a recent Friday, a long table was full of men playing gin. They usually play cards on Fridays at the Rockport Country Club but that day the club wasn’t available.

enjoyed a quick lunch of burgers and fries before heading to their home for the weekend to prepare the fresh fish they caught for the evening meal.

They learned of the restaurant years ago. They liked it so well that now they make a point to stop there after a morning of fishing.

At a nearby table friends and neighbors Rene Gabriel and Veronica Loupe, of Rockport, enjoyed a glass of wine and a meal to wind down the week. They said they usually get together every other week. They come for the southwest eggrolls, patty melts and the view of the bay.

TACO BURGER

Soak onions in milk and egg wash. Dip onions in flour mixture, then back into egg and milk wash, then back into the flour.

Deep fry at 350 degrees for 2 1/2 minutes.

If preparing the onion rings ahead of time, be sure to refrigerate them after they are breaded until it’s time to fry.

INGREDIENTS:

80-20 grade hamburger meat

Pepper (to taste)

Make patties, season with seasoning. Cook patties on grill. Cut patties in half, place half

Dress with lettuce, tomato and onions. You may add other fixings to suit your taste.

Johnny Santos jokes around with another patron.

WITH HANGING FRIENDS

STORY BY JON WILCOX | JWILCOX@VICAD.COM PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTED BY STAUDT BROTHERS BAND

There's bands with incredible technical skills, and there's bands that know how to have fun.

"I like to think we are a little bit of both," Staudt Brothers guitar and mandolin player John White said. "One of the things that separates us is we are a very social band — and not in the way that most bands are. Our crowds in the Victoria area are our friends."

That's important for the band’s five members, who have day jobs as a urologist, carpenter, tattoo artist, financial advisor and a handyman.

After all, the band members said, for them, performing music on stage is about having a great time.

"Personally, I don't golf, so this is a chance to get with my friends and play music and have a good time," White said.

Although sometimes it's tricky setting concert dates that work for all five band members — along with their wives and kids, the friendship and joy from their creative collaboration makes it all worthwhile.

"It’s pretty much therapy for me," Matt Groll, drummer, said. "I can go jam out. It helps."

Over the years, the Victoriabased five-piece band has packed local bars and dance halls with performances that are less like concerts and more like

hangouts with friends, who also happen to be skilled and inspired musicians.

Before they get on stage and in between songs, you'll find the band at the bar or in the crowd, drinking a beer or two, chatting it up with friends and family and generally acting like "normal people."

"We don't go back to our bus and disappear for 15 minutes," White said. "We walk around and hang out."

Since forming about 2014 as an acoustic trio under the name "No Chance Band," the Staudt Brothers have beefed out their red-dirt, countryrock Americana sound with two more members and leaned heavily into writing and performing original work.

This summer, the Victoria-based band plans to release a handful of singles off an LP set to drop later this year.

Having fun while making music has always been important to the Staudt Brothers, who despite their name only boast two brothers with the last name Staudt.

But when the band made the change from performing mainly cover songs to original work, the Staudt Brothers realized they were onto something special, Caleb Staudt, a founding band member who writes many of the group's songs.

"Once I started writing, I never stopped," Staudt said. "It just kind of comes to you."

When they showed a crop of

songs they had been working on to some friends who were musicians, the response they got was clear.

"They thought it needed to be heard," Staudt said.

The lyrics aren't quite fiction, but that doesn't mean they aren't real in a sense, White said.

Staudt's lyrics, White said, are like fictional biographies. They are often so textured and well-fleshed, that he sometimes wonders exactly where the inspiration came from.

"I think a good songwriter is a good storyteller who wants to get a mini short story in your head," White said. "Caleb's songs have a character or personal quality that I very often think

he's writing about me. I think that's the sign of a good song."

And the opportunity to share those lyrics with real audiences has been an incredible experience for the band.

Looking back on a recent concert that packed historic Gruene Hall near New Braunfels wall to wall with eager listeners, Staudt recalled a mountaintop experience.

"The coolest part for me — where I said this is a worthwhile passion project — was when I looked down to the people and they were singing the words to my song," Staudt said. "That was a cool moment. That was a very cool moment."

Once I started writing, I NEVER STOPPED - Caleb Staudt

ABOUT TOWN

STORY BY KYLE R. COTTON | KCOTTON@VICAD.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHASE COFIELD | CCOFIELD@VICAD.COM AND KYLE R. COTTON | KCOTTON@VICAD.COM

For Victorians young and old, the spirit of innovation was something to show and witness at the Innovation Collective’s 2023 Think Big Festival. It was the place to be.

During the Think Tank portion of the festival, business leaders from around the country came to help local leaders brainstorm Victoria’s place in growing industries with recommendations to leverage history and existing infrastructure to be a player in energy, space and agriculture.

This included a speaker series where visiting business leaders shared their professional experiences.

But the highlight was the Tech Carnival at 120 S. Main St. Children as young as elementary school to adults with their own businesses showcased their innovative ideas.

One of the business leaders visiting was Amish Patel, co-founder and partner of Realign Ventures. The maker spirit he had growing up led him to success as an adult.

“Talks and stuff are great. They are deeper conversations. But I didn’t have this growing up,” Patel said. “If I’m 10 or 12 or 13, and I see a drone that the police department is using or that a robot that was made, I may not even have known that was something we can do. This fundamentally acts like that. It’s literally the ‘I can do that?’ moment.

“It’s a catalyst for what’s possible,” he said.

THINK BIG FESTIVAL

‘It’s a catalyst for what’s possible’

Mike Etienne

Dillon Parr

Ahmad Nusayr

Susan Paley

Amish Patel

Theresa and Kenny French Sr.

Abby Brewster

Maria Amaya

Tracy Roby

Bill Wendlandt

Tom Gurski

Bryce Winters

UPCOMING Calendar of Events

JUNE | THROUGH | AUGUST

VICTORIA

BIKES, TRIKES & POWER WHEELS 2023

June 3 − 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Velocity Powersports 361-570-6767

facebook.com/events/2222448597958159

48TH ANNUAL BACH FESTIVAL

June 3 - 10 − Various times

Various locations in and around Victoria victoriabachfestival.org

RUBY & ROSE SHOWCASE OF FASHION

June 8 − 5:30-10 p.m.

Victoria Community Center 361-485-3215

victoriaprofessional.abwa.org

PAINT THE ZOO

June 8 − 6:30-8:30 p.m.

The Texas Zoo

361-573-7681

texaszoo.org

SONGWRITER SERIES

June 13 − 6-9 p.m.

Greeks 205 Bar

205 E. Constitution St. 361-573-7800

PARKING LOT PARTY

June 16 − 6-10 p.m.

Mother Cluckers Downtown

361-935-3335

mothercluckersdowntown.com

THE STREETS ARE TALKING

June 17 − 4-10 p.m.

Constitution Street

Things That Match - 361-793-9404

facebook.com/photo/?fbid=69210136958 7568&set=a.497206855743688

NATIONAL WILD TURKEY FEDERATION BANQUET

June 22 − 5 p.m.

Victoria Community Center 361-485-3215

gcnwtf.org

JULY FOURTH BLASTOFF

July 4 − 5 p.m. (fireworks after dark)

Victoria Community Center, 2905 E. North St.

explorevictoriatexas.com

SONGWRITER SERIES

July 11 - 6-9 p.m.

Greek's 205 Bar

361-573-7800

PARKING LOT PARTY

July 21 − 6-10 p.m.

Mother Cluckers Downtown

361-935-3335

DISNEY'S ‘THE LITTLE MERMAID’

July 21 - July 30

Victoria College’s Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts

361-485-8540

theatrevictoria.org

VICTORIA GENERALS HOST BARK AT THE PARK

July 23 − 7-9 p.m.

Riverside Stadium

361-485-3200

victoriagenerals.com/home

CHARITY CONCERT SERIES: JIMMY FORTUNE (BONUS CONCERT)

Aug. 19 − 7:30-9 p.m.

Victoria College’s Leo J. Welder Center for the Performing Arts

361-485-8540

victoriacollege.edu/calendar-events/ event-details/2023/08/20/defaultcalendar/charity-concert-series-jimmyfortune(bonus-concert)

CUERO

BLACK COWBOYS: AN AMERICAN STORY

Thru August − 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum, 302 N. Esplanade, Cuero

DESTINATION BINGO

June 9 − 5:30-9 p.m.

Cuero VFW Hall

cuero.org/event/destination-bingo

Hosted by Cuero

Chamber of Commerce

PAINT THE “DINKY” HAVE A DRINKY (DINKY TRAIN)

June 15 − 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Downtown Market Pavilion

cuero150.com

DOWNTOWN FARMER'S MARKET ON MAIN

June 24 − 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Market Pavilion

cuero150.com

KIDS MURAL IN CITY PARKING LOT

June 24 − 9-11 a.m.

Corner of East Main and North Clinton streets cuero150.com

DEWITT MEDICAL FOUNDATION

ANNUAL DUELING PIANOS

July 28 − 6-10 p.m. cuero.org/event/cuero-medicalfoundation-annual-dueling-pianos/

FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION & FIREWORKS

July 4 − 4-6 p.m. (fireworks after dark) Cuero Municipal Park cuero150.com

AFTERNOON FUN, RUBY BEGONIA SELECTION & EVENING STREET DANCE

July 22 − 2-10 p.m.

Downtown Market Pavilion cuero150.com

Hosted by Turkeyfest Association

DOWNTOWN FARMER'S MARKET ON MAIN

July 22 − 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Downtown Market Pavilion cuero150.com

EDNA

BRACKENRIDGE RECREATION COMPLEX PRESENTS INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION AND FIREWORKS SHOW

July 1 − 9 a.m.- 11 p.m.

Brackenridge Park and Campground brackenridgepark.com/independenceday

GANADO

BIG BAD A HOWLING COURTROOM COMEDY GANADO TOWNHALL PLAYERS

July 8

Rear Window Listening Room rearwindowlisteningroom.com

HALLETTSVILLE

HALLETTSVILLE MARKET DAYS

Aug 19 − 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Knights of Columbus Hall

MOULTON

MOULTON TOWN & COUNTRY JAMBOREE

July 28-30

Moulton City Park cityofmoulton.com

PORT LAVACA

STAR SPANGLED BAY BASH

July 3 − Gates open 5 p.m., fireworks 9:15 p.m.

Bayfront Peninsula Park, Main Street facebook.com/search/top?q=star%20 spangled%20bay %20bash

PORT O’CONNOR

52ND PORT O'CONNOR FIREWORKS

July1

King Fisher Beach

LONE STAR SHOOTOUT

July 18-23

Offshore fishing tournament

Alligator Head Club thelonestarshootout.com

ROCKPORT

AUSTIN STREET ART WALK

June 10, July 8, Aug. 12

10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Downtown Rockport facebook.com/austinstreetartwalk

2023 ROCKPORT ART FESTIVAL

July 1 − 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

July 2 − 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Rockport Festival Grounds, 1500 E. Laurel St. rockportfulton.com/event-details/ 2023-rockport-art-festival

Hosted by Rockport Center for the Arts

JULY 4 ACTIVITIES

Patriotic Boat Parade - noon

Wendell Family Fireworks Show over Little Bay at dark Little Bay at Rockport Beach rockport-fulton.org

ROCKPORT DOWNTOWN FARMERS MARKET

July 8 - 9 a.m.- noon

Rockport Festival Ground facebook.com/

RockportDowntownFarmersMarket

SHINER

SHINER DOWNTOWN MARKET DAYS

June 17 - 9 a.m.- 4p.m.

Green Building Offices shinerdowntownmarketdays.com/

HALF MOON HOLIDAYS

June 30-July 1

Green Dickson Park shinerhalfmoon.com/

SHINER DOWNTOWN MARKET DAYS

July 15 − 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Green Building Offices

shinerdowntownmarketdays.com