May 2018

40 UNDER 40: MEET THE CLASS OF 2018

28 places to find

Meal Steals

Buddy Walker Home Furnishings 4434 S. Padre Island Dr., Corpus Christi, TX 78411

| 361.857.2263

361.994.7500 www.tvvmedispa.com

THE COMPLETE SOLUTION FOR LASER HAIR REMOVAL Virtually painless Proven safety record All skin types, even tanned skin

Javier Alonso, MD, PhD | 5242 Holly Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78411

4 The Bend

and

proudly present

BOOK, MUSIC AND LYRICS BY JIM JACOBS AND WARREN CASEY MUSIC DIRECTION BY ANDREW REYES CHOREOGRAPHY BY ANDIE PURDY

DIRECTED BY ANDRES ELIZONDO II AND FERNANDO FERNANDEZ, JR thebendmag.com GREASE is presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.

5

Visit us at one of our

Serving South Texas Since 1947

3 LOCATIONS:

PORTLAND OFFICE 101 Cox Dr. 361.643.0416

LAMAR PARK OFFICE 525 Doddridge Rd. 361.854.7999

SARATOGA OFFICE 6200 Saratoga Blvd. #102 361.992.8900

This team is exceptional in every way... prompt, professional, personal and proactive.

I cannot imagine being in better hands. – Client Review

6 The Bend

Top 10% in Nation

1,095 Days (and counting) For 3 years, Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital has been ranked in the Top 10% of inpatient rehabilitation facilities nationwide.

This means that our patients receive the highest level of rehabilitative care available anywhere in the United States right here in our own community.

The care we provide our patients has been nationally recognized as being: • Patient-centered • Effective • Efficient • Timely We consider it a privilege to be able to serve our community with this higher level of care, and plan to continue to do so for all our days to come.

Learn more about our services at CCRH.ernesthealth.com

*Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital was ranked from among 870 inpatient rehabilitation facilities in 2017 by the Uniform Data System for Medical Rehabilitation (UDSMR), a non-profit corporation that maintains the world’s largest database for medical rehabilitation outcomes.

CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM 5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414

361.906.3700

361.906.3797

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7

HAPPY

Mother’s DAY

Saving Your Skin May is Melanoma Awareness Month, also know as skin cancer month and the beginning of the warm season when more of us go to the beach, the pool and enjoy outdoor activities. Because we are outside more, we have an increased risk of skin cancer.

Even on cloudy day, we need to remember that we need sun protection. It is better to use sun protection based on time rather than weather as there is still a lot of damaging sun rays on cloudy days.

Even with good sun protection one can develop skin cancers.

Warning signs of skin cancers can be an area that appears to be a wound that just doesn’t heal or moles that change. Changes in size, color, shape, te xture and physical appearance can all be warning signs and if noted should be brought to the immediate attention of a physician. Your physician will evaluate the growth and then either biopsy it or send you to someone who will biopsy it and treat it appropriately.

As a plastic surgeon, Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele can evaluate the worrisome lesions and skin cancers and treat them, often with your dermatologist. The treatments can range from surgical removal and closure to applications of creams to treat the lesion.

Often after the dermatologist removes large skin cancer, espe-

cially in the face, Dr. Bindingnavele uses his skills to reconstruct the defect so that form and function is optimized.

Better than have your skin cancer treated is to not get skin cancer. Most of the time, it can be prevented by using sunscreens.

Our office carries a line of sensitive, yet effective sunscreens. Our Licensed Aesthetician, Ashley Wendt is happy to give you a free skin care consultation.

It is very important to make sure your plastic surgeon is well trained, has completed his/her residency successfully and is Board Certified. In plastic surgery, a membership in the American Board of Plastic Surgery confirms that your surgeon has successfully completed residency, passed their board exams, and follow the high ethical and professional standards set by the organization. Not everyone is board certified. It is also important to make sure that you have a good rapport with your plastic surgeon and his/her office staff.

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele, a board certified plastic surgeon and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the staff at The Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, put the patient first and strive to provide the best care with the highest standards using the latest proven technologies at the best value.

Dr. VJ, as he is known by many of his patients, has been performing these procedures in Corpus Christi for the past ten years. Ashley Wendt, a licensed Medical Aesthetician, has been practicing for the past decade

Microdermabrasion • Hydro-Infusion Therapy • Laser Genesis Laser Vein Therapy • Photorejuvenation • Laser Hair Removal Dermaplaning • Micro Needling • Peels

– Where Beautiful Skin & Experience Meet.

5642 ESPLANADE DR., CORPUS CHRISTI, TX • (361) 888-7417 • CORPUSPLASTICSURGERY.COM • 8 The Bend

DR-VIJAY-BINDINGNAVELE

Sophisticated Waterfront Ranch 6058 Hwy 285, Concepcion, TX $3,950,000

Jaw-Dropping Water Views!

13910 Primavera Drive $599,000

Fisherman’s Paradise 15230 Main Royal Drive $379,900

View amazing

photos at...

es. i t r e p www.Coastline-Pro Come Coast Awhile...

BUYING | SELLING | LEASING | INVESTING 2016 PADRE ISLAND BUSINESS of the YEAR

361-949-0101

14717 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78418

thebendmag.com

9

Aransas County’s Leading Realtor for more than 55 Years!

Historic Seaport Cottage 1304 E. Sabinal, Rockport, Texas

Lovely old Home in North Rockport! Enjoy the view from the charming glassed-in front porch. Beautifully redone exterior. Walking distance to Rockport Beach and City park. 3BR/3BA with tremendous upstairs area. This duplex offers great rental home possibility.

MLS #129339 ▪ $285,000 Jackie Shaw 361-790-4199 ▪ Sandy Swanson 361-463-1293

Paradise on the Canal 1041 Fiji Drive, Rockport, Texas

Beautiful point location with fabulous bay views! Large dock area allows easy boat access to enjoy world famous Aransas Bay fishing. This amazing 2-yr-old 3BR/2.5BA canal home offers open living/dining/kitchen, cozy upstairs fireplace and convenient elevator.

MLS #129126 ▪ $797,000 John Kidwell ▪ 361-548-3691

Our AGENTS are ROOTED in this Community!

John Kidwell ▪ Rebecca Bagby ▪ Robin Martin ▪ Shirley Kirmse Jackie Shaw ▪ Ed Oliva ▪ Carla Rinche ▪ Tammy Redden Sandy Swanson ▪ Mindy Durham ▪ Kathy Myers Dee Becker ▪ Mary Ann Kennedy ▪ Mimi Nieschwietz Kelly Hancock ▪ Margaret Goolsbee ▪ Kay Johnson ▪ Anne Austin

KeyAllegro.com

361-729-3691 • 800-348-1627 1798 Bay Shore Drive • Rockport, Texas 78382

Brett Bohn and Joe Bruce Hancock, Owners Carla Rinche, Broker 10 The Bend

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES for Licensed AGENTS. Join the TOP SALES Force in Aransas County!

4400 S. Padre Island Dr., Corpus Christi, TX • 361.288.4224 • allison-flooring.com HOURS: Monday - Friday 8:00am - 5:00pm • Saturday - Sunday Closed

thebendmag.com

11

MAY 2018 |

Summer Issue

CONTENTS

44

100 36 AROUND THE BEND 22 | STYLE & BEAUTY 26 | CURRENTS 28 | TRENDING 30 | GIVING BACK 32 | 5 BEST 34 | PERSON OF INTEREST

HEALTH 58 | BE WELL 62 | MEDICAL MATTERS 64 | MEET THE DOCTOR HOME & GARDEN 80 | OPEN HOUSE 84 | SPACES 86 | GARDENING

OUT & ABOUT 90 | ARTS & CULTURE 92 | DATE BOOK 94 | CELEBRATION 96 | SOCIAL HOUR CUISINE 100 | FARM TO TABLE 105 | DINING GUIDE 106 | THE DRINK 110 | THE DISH HISTORY 114 | LOOKING BACK

Copyright © 2018 Gemstone Media, LLC. The Bend: Coastal Life Magazine is published by Gemstone Media, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without express written consent. Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice, but is rather considered informative. Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.

12 The Bend

CUISINE

AS BREATHTAKING AS

THE VIEW.

Taste the best of the Texas Coast at the famous Republic of Texas Bar and Grill. Located on the 20th floor of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, this multi-level steakhouse offers an award-winning wine list, tempting wild game, seafood and prime beef all while taking in the panoramic views of the Corpus Christi bay.

OMNIHOTELS.COM 361-886-3515

thebendmag.com

13

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

CONTRIBUTORS: Justin & Kayla Butts Jo Anne Howell Alexa Alley Jacqueline Gonzalez Alexis Mays Jinky Romero Jillian Becquet Julieta Hernandez Dayna Worchel

ART DIRECTOR: Will Bowling PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick

Smart home technology, meet beautiful window coverings.

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: Jarred Schuetze

Call now for your free Smart Home consultation!

361.808.7400

FREE Smart Lighting Control Bundle with Smart Shade Purchase* Bundle includes plug-in lamp dimmers that provide control of lamps and can be connected to app control.

MANAGING EDITOR: Kylie Kinnett

Visit our Showroom:

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Benavides

6722 Kram St. Corpus Christi, Tx 78413 M-F: 9AM - 5PM or by appt.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: jordan@thebendmag.com ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com THE BEND OFFICE: 309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.792.3606 SUBSCRIPTIONS:

*At participating franchises only. ©2018 Budget Blinds, LLC. All Rights Reserved. Budget Blinds is a trademark of Budget Blinds, LLC and a Home Franchise Concepts Brand.

Each franchise independently owned and operated. Caséta, ClearConnect, HomeWorks, Lutron, Pico, RadioRA, Sivoia, and Triathlon are trademarks of Lutron Electronics Co., Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. © 06/2018 Lutron Electronics Co., Inc.

COPY EDITOR: Kay Pluta

THEBENDMAG.COM

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jason Page Brynn Osborn

CONNECT WITH US @

thebendmag.com @thebendmag on Instagram and Twitter #CBLife

FAMILY DENTISTRY

40 UNDER 40:

The Coastal Bend’s

MAY 2018

14 The Bend

OF 2018

find 28 places to

ne Lifestyle Magazi

240 Reliant Dr., Portland, TX 78374 duncandentalstudio.com 361.643.3030

MEET THE CLASS

5

LASER DENTISTRY

VOLUME 5/ISSUE

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

On the cover: We searched for some of the best ways you can eat great while still on a budget here in the Coastal Bend Meal Steals and came up with a list of summer meal steals. The Miss Arepa food truck’s tasty Catira Arepa and one of their chicken Empanadas grace our cover this month. Their authentic Venezuelan flavor can’t be beat—and neither can their prices for that matter. We also have to thank our friends over at BUS for letting us shoot on location and for giving us a taste of their newest drink, the Blood Meridian. Shot by Jason Page

thebendmag.com

15

MAY / From The Desk Of

What is your favorite go-to meal steal in the Coastal Bend?

Jinky Romero, Contributing Writer

My go to places for cheap eats in the Coastal Bend are Pho Saigon and Big Bowl Korean BBQ! Pho Saigon’s pho and ramen bowls are huge, fresh, delicious, and super affordable.

Same goes for Big Bowl, their rice meals (the Bulgogi is my personal favorite), that come with two sides, are so tasty and will fill you up for sure

Jason Page,

Contributing Photographer

When I'm short on time, but hungry for something delicious and made from scratch, Urbana downtown is my cheap eats destination. In the morning their brat-in-ablanket hits the spot. At lunch I grab a pepper and sausage sub with a Topo Chico. And in the evening ,you can't beat their pizzas.

Julieta Hernandez,

Contributing Writer

For cheap, good food I will be found at any of the South Texas taquerias. Taqueria Alteno or Jalisco is probably where I’ll head to during study breaks; nothing can beat the authenticity of the tacos down here. Also, their lemonade is the stuff of dreams.

16 The Bend

PRP FOR HAIR GROWTH Triggers and maintains the growth phase Increases blood supply to the follicle Increases shaft size (thickness) Controls hair growth cycle Decreases hair loss

the power of

gold

ADDITIONAL SERVICES CryoCorrect Precision Pen SkinPen Microneedling HydraFacial MD Dermaplaning

PRP FOR SKIN Also known as Vampire Facial Promotes collagen growth Regenerates skin tissue Naturally smooths skin Naturally tightens skin Soften wrinkles

QUALITY Dr. Ryan Rogers is the only board certified Mohs Surgeon in Corpus Christi DR. RYAN ROGERS MOHs Surgeon Board Certified Dermatologist

DistinctiveLandscapes Landscapes Start Start Here...

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At McNamee,where our business Wondering is all about the customer. Let to start is where we us become your private consultant, expert resource loveandtoproblem start! solver.

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1" = 10'

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thebendmag.com

17

MAY / Letter From The Publisher

came from the food truck Munchies where the menu item read: I Don’t Care – let our chef go crazy and make you something unique and awesome. It was awesome.

Not every food truck or restaurant makes such bold propositions, but there is something fun about being surprised by how much you love something new. I love finding a good new restaurant or food truck, especially when the food comes at a great price. A low price does not always mean low quality. It’s really hard to put a price tag on good food. I guess price is just in the eye of the beholder.

Going Off the Menu

M

y wife always gets mad at me when we eat at a new restaurant, because I never actually look at the menu for very long. Whenever I’m standing at the counter or the server is taking my order, I often ask for a recommendation. I secretly have this fear of missing out on something. Like that moment in a restaurant when a server walks by with a dish that sparks a little jealously as they deliver it to a different table. Maybe I tend to be a little more adventurous when it comes to ordering food, but most of the time I discover the risk is worth the reward. For instance, one of the best sandwiches I have ever had

Favorite Page

3744 S. Alameda St. Corpus Christi, TX 78411 Phone: 361-225-3744 Facebook: Gatherings/giftbox Instagram: gatherings_giftbox

18 The Bend

This month, I am thrilled to announce a new partnership with Young Business Professionals of the Coastal Bend, or YBP. Starting with the Class of 2018, we will feature the winners every year in the magazine. I love the diversity in this year’s class. It is really exciting for me to see so many young movers and shakers setting a high standard for excellence in their field and serving Corpus Christi.

Meet the Corpus Christi 40 Under 40 on page 36.

When Eva and Paul Parras opened their food truck, Miss Arepa, named after their main dish, Paul didn’t think they would even sell one arepa. But as word got around about this Venezuelan sandwich for only $8, lines began to form wherever they went. You can read more about Miss Arepa and 27 other “Meal Steals” on page 44, which our Managing Editor, Kylie Kinnett, knocked out of the park this month.

Corpus Christi, and the entire region, is a melting pot full of incredible food from all over the world.

With summer just around the corner, we wanted to help readers get adventurous and discover some true steals. Who knew you could taste an authentic Philly Cheesesteak or Venezuelan arepa in the Coastal Bend? To me, that surely is a bargain.

Jordan Regas, Publisher

Photo By: Taylor Cravey thebendmag.com

19

Special Promotion

I

f you are not familiar with the Buc Days Parade, you might be new in town. Welcome to Corpus Christi! Our parade history is rich and varied, and dates back more than 100 years to 1917. It started with a small parade and event on North Beach, and by 1938, it had grown so large, that the Buccaneer Commission was incorporated to organize the event. Today, the event is known as, Buc Days Corpus Christi. The Commission also runs the Buc Days Carnival which eventually led to the Buc Days Rodeo, now known as, Rodeo Corpus Christi. Yeehaw!

The Buc Commission ran the parade until 1956. According to folklore, the Bucaraders were organized in January 1957 because the parade was usually an hour or two late getting started. Bucaraders Past President, Turner Moller (1986), says the parade has started on time every year since the Bucaraders took over – that is 61 years if you are keeping score.

Carter Benkendorfer, current Bucaraders President, has absolutely no intention of breaking that streak.

Today, the Bucaraders are responsible for three parades: The Buc Days Illuminated Night Parade, the Buc Days Junior Parade, and the Fourth of July Parade. There are 85 active members, plus Past Presidents and Parade Marshalls

Terry Schade is the President of Casa de Oro Jewelers, serving the Coastal Bend for 40 years. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Terry served in the U.S. Army after high school.

After his tour, he returned to complete his B.B.A. from Texas A&M-Corpus Christi. His goal at Casa de Oro Jewelers is to sell and

to help organize and run the annual events. This “little” annual Night Parade attracts more than 150,000 people, and if you have lived here for any amount of time, you are sure to have witnessed spectators painting, taping, or chalking their spot along the route.

Several years ago, the Bucaraders added an additional, unofficial parade to the schedule. They teamed up with Driscoll Children’s Hospital, which host the Annual Pumpkin Parade every Halloween. This parade is about letting the pediatric patients wear Halloween costumes and trick or treat within the hospital. “These patients now take part in some of the parade fun that Bucaraders have been providing for years!”, says Keith Smith, current Bucarader.

As a member of this organization, I can vouch for the selfless, community-driven men that put in countless volunteer hours to keep this long standing, Corpus Christi tradition alive, and I am proud to call myself a Bucarader. Come to the best parade in Texas (May 5th at 8pm) and give a high five to a Bucarader. You will recognize them by their white jump suits and ball caps along the parade route. To learn more about the tradition we call, Buc Days Corpus Christi, visit www.bucdays.com.

create fine jewelry without the overinflated, retail prices, while treating everyone like family.

Casa de Oro Jewelers has many local organizations near and dear to the heart, but few are more special than the relationship with Driscoll Children’s Hospital Auxiliary. They have been making the ‘Angel’ charms since 2005 – 100% of the proceeds go to scholarships for Driscoll Oncology patients.

Today, in addition to attending to the daily operations of Casa de Oro Jewelers, Terry is a community advocate. He currently serves

on the Board of Directors for The Rotary Club of Corpus Christi and the Board of Directors for The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Corpus Christi – you might have tried his award-winning food at Men Who Cook, a marque fundraiser for The Ronald McDonald House.

He is a member of the Corpus Christi Mustangs, the Bucaraders Organization, and a graduate of Leadership CC. He and his wife, Stefany, always welcome visitors to talk ‘shop’, whether it is business or community related or just to say hello.

YOU CAN FIND THEM AT

Casa de Oro Jewelers 20 The Bend

|

4940 Gollihar Rd., Corpus Christi, TX

|

361.991.7054

|

www.casadeorojewelers.com

AROUND THE BEND STYLE & BEAUTY 22 CURRENTS 26 TRENDING 28 GIVING BACK 30 5 BEST 32 PERSON OF INTEREST 34

What’s Inside No matter your skin type, the end goal for most is the same: flawless, blemish-free skin. We sought out a couple different products you can purchase locally to help you achieve your skincare goals.

thebendmag.com

21

AROUND THE BEND / STYLE & BEAUTY

BEAUTY SKINCARE

By: Jarred Schuetze Photos by: Rachel Benavides

I

t’s no secret that everybody wants flawless skin. However, achieving this goal is no small task. It requires consistent attention and longevity to reep the full benefits of a great skincare regime. Proper skincare is essential to the health and radiance of any individual’s skin.

When it comes to skincare, routines vary from person to person. They can be minimal or extensive depending on skin type, environment, age, and budget. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when presented with such a wide variety of cleansers, serums, moisturizers, hydrators, eye creams, acne treatments, and oils, but one thing to remember is to never settle.

When it comes to finding the skincare products that work for you, always shop with an end goal in mind.

If your desire is for firming and toning, look for products that contain ‘age-defying’ formulas, and moisture serums. If you have acne prone skin, keep an eye out 22 The Bend

for products containing salicylic acid or tea tree oil.

Perhaps you just need a trusted daily moisturizer, try to find products containing vitamins, botanicals, and a good SPF. When developing your regimen always consider the art of layering your products. The golden order of application is as follows: Serums first, then gels, then lotions, then creams, then ointments.

Another important fact to note: Most active ingredients in skincare products need at least two months or so to take full effect and achieve your desired results.

So practice patience, young grasshopper. Just because your skin hasn’t improved immediately doesn’t mean that it won’t. Your skin needs time to adjust to the new routine.

With the help of a few of our most trusted beauty guru’s, we have selected several high-quality skincare products worth looking into.

KERSTIN FLORIAN

Multivitamin Day Crème SPF 30

iS CLINICAL

Neck Perfect Complex

$78

Rediscover Kerstin Florian’s best selling moisturizer. Now with all-natural sun protection.

This is the perfect day crème, a 3-in-1 formula featuring nutrients, moisture and mineral SPF. Naturally replenishes, hydrates and shields from UV rays to keep skin protected and youthful.

This revolutionary age-defying formula gently exfoliates the skin to diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while dramatically improving the look of skin tone and texture. With continued use, the neck and décolleté appear smoother, contoured and sculpted for a more radiant, youthful-looking complexion.

available at

available at

$62

SKINCARE BUTIK skincarebutik.com

SKINCARE BUTIK skincarebutik.com

HERBIVORE

Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Face Mist

$32

HERBIVORE Pheonix Facial Oil

$88

Rose Hibiscus Hydrating Face Mist is created with pure plant actives — no fillers. A base of coconut water is infused with youth-boosting hibiscus flower petals and moistureenhancing rose to tone, hydrate, and soften all skin types.

Like a Phoenix from the ashes, allow your skin to regenerate with this blend of luxe botanical oils and skin-cell-renewing CoQ10. This oil will dramatically rehydrate and rejuvenate your skin at the cellular level.

Leaves skin soft and silky with a renewed appearance and texture.

available at

available at

ELEANOR’S eleanorscctx.com

ELEANOR’S eleanorscctx.com

HYDRA FACIAL, MD

Antiox + Daily with Even Tone & Firming

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PROMOTION

y a d s ’ r mothe

GIFT GUIDE

Looking for a way to celebrate the most important women in your life? The Coastal Bend’s fabulous local shops and boutiques have you covered. From jewelry to make-up, the selections below are just a small taste of the incredible gifts you can find when you shop smart and local.

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1. BUMBLE BEE NECKLACE

BY LA VIE PARISIENNE

Hamlin Fountain & Gifts $48 3801 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX hamlinfg.com • 361.853.7303

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2. MUSTARD SEED JEWELRY

The Woodhouse Day Spa $40/ea.

6000 S. Staples St. #410, Corpus Christi, TX corpuschristi.woodhousespas.com 361.985.8488

3. VINTAGE 14K YELLOW GOLD TWO PHOTO SLIDE STYLE LOCKET

A.Kenney Jewelry $310 3636 S. Alameda St., Corpus Christi, TX akenneyjewelry.com • 361.452.3059

4. BIG O HANDS-FREE KEY RINGS

Jewels Boutique $28 - $52 5830 McArdle Rd. #9, Corpus Christi, TX jewelscorpuschristi.com • 361.991.7222

5. THE SKINCARE MAKEUP

BY JANE IREDALE

The Woodhouse Day Spa Prices Vary 6000 S. Staples St. #410, Corpus Christi, TX corpuschristi.woodhousespas.com 361.985.8488

24 The Bend

5.

Steak At Its Best

Great Food. Great Times. Great Experience.

5409 SARATOGA BLVD., CORPUS CHRISTI, TX NIKOSSTEAKHOUSE.COM HAPPY HOUR 4-7PM 7 DAYS A WEEK

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SUN - THIRS 11AM-1AM FRI - SAT 11AM-2AM thebendmag.com

25

AROUND THE BEND / CURRENTS

CURRENTS By: Jarred Schuetze

Dave & Buster’s –

Here come fun and games to satisfy the whole family. A new tenant is coming to La Palmera as part of their most recent expansion. The popular chain, Dave & Busters, is planned to open in late fall, 2018. The restaurant and gaming center will offer guests remarkable food, fabulous drinks, a plethora of games, and perfect sports viewing throughout the venue. This will be the first Dave & Buster’s location in the Coastal Bend. It is destined to be a crowd pleaser!

5488 S. Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Hawaii Poke - A new

Southside eatery, Hawaii Poke, has locals contemplating their new lunchtime hot spot. Do you want brown rice or spring mix? Wasabi aioli or orange miso sauce?

Care for a large heap of chopped raw salmon, or are you feeling more like albacore today? These are the decisions you’ll ponder while waiting in line at a poke (pronounced poke-eh) restaurant. Hawaii Poke is the first restaurant in the Coastal Bend to exclusively focus on poke. With a seemingly endless list of menu items and choice ingredients, it’s no doubt why this establishment is bringing in waves of hungry visitors!

5521 Saratoga Blvd. Ste 110, Corpus Christi, Texas 78413

26 The Bend

Dos Camales Café Y Cantina –

Everyone loves summer’s endless opportunities to eat outdoors and enjoy beautiful weather. Our friends at Dos Camales have officially opened their full service covered patio to the public. Bright colors, fun signs, and a whopping eight TVs (that one’s for you, sports fans) deck the place with style. Perfectly located on Water St., this restaurant is on its way to becoming a go-to spot for bar hopping downtown. Head out to the patio, dive into their multitude of margaritas, and enjoy the summer breeze. You know you want to!

227 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

Gignac Architects has been serving Texas with Architectural, Interior and Landscape Design 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 commercial work with an emphasis on quality design.

Gignac Architects employs a full staff of design and construction professionals to promote quality in overall project design and Construction Management services.

We provide three office locations in Corpus Christi, McAllen, and Harlingen to better serve our South Texas clients with quick, responsive expertise.

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thebendmag.com

27

AROUND THE BEND / TRENDING

Summer Reads One aspect we love about summer is that it provides countless opportunities to catch up on your reading.

Did you know there’s over fifteen public libraries stationed around the Coastal Bend? These libraries are brimming with classic and new reads sure to take you on a journey. Head down to your neighborhood public library and sign up for a card today.

Book Bags Find the perfect book bag, like the one featured here, by shopping the vast selection of new, used, and vintage finds at one of our favorite local consignment shops, Threads.

Delecarlian Horse Tote EMMEZ $12.50 4646 Everhart Rd. threadscorpuschristi.com

OF THE

WHAT WE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT

By: Jarred Schuetze Photo By: Brynn Osborn

COME SEE THE CITY LIKE WE DO.

SEE IT DIFFERENTLY.

BOOK YOUR TOUR BY CALLING US AT: 361.500.4981

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29

AROUND THE BEND / GIVING BACK

Corpus Christi Maternal Mental Health Coalition An organization seeking to change the way people view mental health as it pertains to prenatal and postpartum care By: Jacqueline Gonzalez Photos by: Rachel Benavides

T mom’s life.

he stigma surrounding mental health creates a fear of reaching out for help, casting a pall over millions of women all around the world. Sometimes dismissed as the baby blues or as a woman simply adjusting to motherhood, postpartum depression steals the joy from a

Liz Perez, a mother of three beautiful girls, is not only the Executive Director and Founder of the Corpus Christi Maternal Mental Health Coalition, but also one of the many women who have experienced postpartum depression and not known where to seek help.

After a late diagnosis of postpartum depression, Liz reached out to various Facebook groups in hopes of finding other mothers in the same

30 The Bend

situation. After coming to the realization that the problem was not just local but worldwide, she entertained the idea of creating a safe space for women experiencing mental health issues after pregnancy. After moving back to Corpus and settling in her permanent home, she knew the next logical step would be to seek help at an established organization or practice designed for postpartum depression. To her chagrin, the only organizations she discovered offered help in a specialized capacity, such as drug abuse during pregnancy. She wanted to be the help that she needed four years ago and fill a need that would not only help her, but also the community.

What initially began as The Silent Struggle, a website where Liz shared postpartum depression information and her personal story, eventually blossomed into the Corpus Christi Maternal Mental Health Coalition.

Liz decided to change the name to encompass women in all stages of motherhood. The CCMMHC holds monthly peer – to – peer support groups designed to offer a safe, judgment free conversational space for women to share their stories and connect with other women for support.

Together with Jesikah Gutierrez, the Director of Community Outreach and Development, Liz has continued to strengthen this coalition to become a legacy for the women of the Coastal Bend. Liz proudly states that everyone involved in the coalition has passion that comes from experience. With a shared passion and vision for the community, Liz and Jesikah strive to continue growing the CCMMHC and establish more community connections to help Coastal Bend women.

New things are on the horizon for the CCMMHC. Liz is working diligently to develop curriculum and a care package for new mothers. She’s also creating a separate support group for women and their significant others. This allows a woman’s primary support system to get proper information on postpartum depression.

This is not Liz’s first rodeo in community involvement; she is also a Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee member. A very diligent mother, wife, and member of the community, Liz will stop at nothing to bring greatness to the Coastal Bend and provide help to those in need.

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AROUND THE BEND / 5 BEST

5

Best

Man v.

Food

By: Alexa Alley Photo By: Rachel Benavides

From tacos to burgers, we’ve rounded up the 5 best food challenges in the Coastal Bend that can earn you some serious bragging rights J. P. Bombers “Son of a Burger” challenge : This whopping three-pound

burger contains six patties stacked with cheese, bacon and all the fixings. As if that was not enough of a challenge, the sandwich comes with two sides, tater tots, and Stuffed Jalo-Peno Bombers (the restaurant’s very own version of fried jalapeños). If finished in less than 40 minutes, the meal is free. J. P. Bombers 6109 McArdle Rd. Corpus Christi, TX 78412

All Mighty Chacho’s Taco Challenge: Gaining recognition not only in

Corpus Christi but also throughout Texas, this taco challenge has only had a few victors in its nearly 20 years of business. The taco, stuffed with carne guisada, eggs, beans, cheese, bacon, and potatoes and wrapped in a soft, fluffy, homemade tortilla, is 14 inches in diameter.

Patrons earn a free t-shirt and a spot on the

32 The Bend

wall of fame if the meal is finished in under 10 minutes. Chacho’s Tacos 3700 Ayers St. Corpus Christi, TX 78415

Astor Top Sirloin Challenge: Per-

haps one of the most daunting challenges, the 82-ounce top sirloin challenge at Astor Steakhouse puts your appetite to the test. If completed in less than 45 minutes, the $120.00 value steak is free of charge. The Astor, a family owned restaurant in business since 1957, specializes Mesquite grilled steak. This challenge not only gives you a hefty serving of steak but also a quality one at that. Astor Steak House 5533 Leopard St. Corpus Christi, TX 78408

Wallbangers “Big Banger” Challenge: This three-pound burger topped with

cheese, onion rings, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onion on a homemade bun with a side of

curly fries must be finished in 45 minutes for the challenge to be complete. They say the burger is enough for six to eight people, so if you aren’t feeling up to facing the challenge solo, grab a few friends and share! Wallbangers 4100 S. Staples St. Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Recio’s Taco Challenge: At Recio’s

Smokehouse, barbecue and Mexican food are their specialties, and this food challenge perfectly embodies both. Not your average taco, this 4.5 pound breakfast taco is made on a giant homemade flour tortilla packed with chorizo, potato, sausage, bacon, refried beans, eggs, and their award-winning brisket. In order to finish the challenge, you must eat the taco in under 11 minutes or else you pay. Recio’s Smokehouse Restaurant & Catering 5526 Old Brownsville Rd. Corpus Christi, TX 7841

Let us deliver a vehicle to your driveway to test drive!

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361-592-2668 thebendmag.com

33

AROUND THE BEND / PERSON OF INTEREST

MEET

John Roman

With the winner of the first annual “Funniest in Corpus” award at the forefront of comedy, the comedic scene in the Coastal Bend is going places By: Jacqueline Gonzalez Photos by: Rachel Benavides

IS COMEDY SOMETHING YOU HAVE ALWAYS BEEN INTERESTED IN? Oh yeah, since I was a kid – about 8 years old. I was a bit of a

class clown in second grade. I would watch Saturday Night Live, then go to school and tell my friends about all the jokes I learned.

I got into trouble for this, and as punishment, I was forced to stand up in front of the classroom and tell the jokes to the entire class.

Joke was on them – I loved it!

HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE LOCAL COMEDY SCENE?

Aside from my comedic antics in grade school, in 2003, I took a chance on a guest spot during a paid show hosted by The Oasis Bar and Grill. It wasn’t what I expected, so I went in a different direction. Sunrise Mall housed a comedy club called Crazy Times, and they held open mic nights every Wednesday. I’d never done open mic, and I was a bit hesitant, but I was asked to go on stage, and what do you know – it was a “Funniest in Corpus” contest – and I won! That was the beginning of my journey, which would eventually bring me to booking, managing, and hosting shows.

HOW HAS THE COMEDY/STAND UP SCENE IN THE COASTAL BEND EVOLVED OVER THE YEARS? It has evolved by leaps and bounds. A

lot of promotion was required to grow the audiences, but it was

34 The Bend

well worth the effort. I hung flyers at local colleges and universities, and ended up with more eager comedians and audience members.

Now, we have Chuckles Comedy Club, and Comics Live, which I’ve run for nearly 10 years. I opt for booking popular faces, such as Dustin Diamond, Mike Epps, Jim Breuer, Pauly Shore, and Jake the Snake, along with some local comedians, to draw bigger crowds. I feel that by adding comedy shows in snippets, people may be more inclined to remember the acts, and come on by to see other shows.

So far, it’s been successful.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO SEE FOR THE FUTURE OF THE COMEDY SCENE HERE IN CORPUS? I hope to see a full scale dedicated

comedy club in Corpus Christi. Since Crazy Times closed in 2009, Corpus hasn’t had any full-scale comedy clubs. Comedy is such a conditional environment, and because of that, it’s difficult to find a place to set up a mic stand, and have a dedicated crowd come by strictly for comedy shows. Mesquite and Bella Luna have been great, but they are also Italian restaurants that happen to also host comedy shows. With how much comedy is evolving in Corpus, I’m hoping to see this happen in the near future.

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Ashlee Struchen

38 The Bend

Mayra Zamora

40

40 Corpus Christi

under

The CC40U40 is a twelve-year-old custom that

began when two women – Rosaura Bailey and Elisa Fogle – saw a need in our community.

“Years ago, C.C. 40 Under 40 started as an independent group,” says Russell Wagner, Executive Director for The Young Business Professionals organization. “They noticed that Corpus Christi had many great people who do many great things – but no one was really giving them the recognition for what they were doing.”

It turned out that honoring incredible city leaders and young business professionals was just the start – the design of this event also helps to retain and recruit talent in our area, raise awareness for the betterment of our city, and raises money for a charity.

As the annual recognition continued to blossom, it then came to the attention of another organization: The Young Business Professionals of the Coastal Bend (YBP).

From the start, it was clear that Corpus

James Aleman Aleman Allstate Agency Andrea Amaya Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi Ashley Arevalo Period Corpus Christi

Colton Bartel Susann’s Custom Jewelers Zoraida Basaldu CITGO Bill Bonilla Bonilla & Chapa Matthew Brennan Fellowship of Oso Creek Shannon Bumstead Bumstead Properties & Associates Christina Buttler Coastal Bend Center for Independent Living Jamie Copeland CCISD Justin Doss CHRISTUS Spohn Health System Coral Dworaczyk Self – Real Estate Agent Derrick Escobedo Johnson Controls Courtney Gallion Corpus Christi Medical Center

Courtney Gallion thebendmag.com

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40

40 Corpus Christi

under

Heather Garcia Sterling Personnel Elizabeth Gibbens Edward Jones Xavier Gonzales Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi Erica Gonzalez R. E. E. Inc. dba McDonald’s Lori Gonzalez Ybarra Lola’s Street Boutique Claudia Huerta Corpus Christi Convention and Visitors Bureau Michelle Hunnicutt Hollenbaugh Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi Kimberly Johnson Tuloso Midway ISD Jamie Lyn Jones CCISD – Richard King High School Jennifer Laclair Prime Real Estate Adam Lopez Frost Bank Marcus Lozano Feathered Friends and Co

40 The Bend

Christi 40 Under 40 was a perfect match for the YBP. The purpose of the CC40U40 aligned perfectly with the YBP’s mission to enhance our area and workforce ‘by promoting educational and professional advancement among emerging business leaders.’ Plus, the ceremony recognizes an age that the group wanted to acknowledge.

Luis Sanchez, a previous 40U40 recipient and current co-chair for the YBP, explains that 40 and under is a significant professional turning stone: “Age 40 and under is generally when people are getting their careers up and running. Age 40 and beyond is typically more of an established career.”

The CC40U40 award has been bestowed upon many well-known movers and shakers in the Coastal Bend.

In years past, some faces were even recognized more than once, but it has since grown so much, that recipients can now only be recognized once. Even with that new policy, they received more nominations than ever before. The YBP also receives applications for individuals from a wide spectrum of positions and industries.

during this year’s selection process, the number one factor that candidates must meet went beyond the workplace walls.

“This year, there was more of a focus on what people do outside of work.

Especially those working with very special populations; such as people who are taking time out of their lives to work with children, those with special needs, and in nursing homes,” says Wagner. “We looked for those people who have a special heart for those who can’t always help themselves.”

Wagner explained how the scoring process was updated to have more concentration on those deeply involved with our city.

“A robust resume wasn’t as important,” Wagner goes on. “Because when you dig into their community involvement; who they’re working with, and who they’re spending their time with outside their 8 am – 5 pm, I think many will be very impressed with what these people are doing.”

In fact, several who are being recognized may not be faces that the community is familiar with.

“We’ve seen recipients come from education, medicine, technology, business owners, banking, insurance, the nonprofit section, and more,” lists Sanchez. “We look to attract a very diverse group when recognizing professionals.”

“We’re looking for the unsung heroes.” Sanchez describes. “The ones who, day in and day out, go above and beyond to improve people’s lives and contribute to our community.

They are not necessarily the go-getters. They are the go-givers.”

During the selection process for most years, a person’s industry and company were heavily considered when scoring nominations. But

And speaking of giving, the group will be donating to Camp Aranzazu in Rockport, Texas. This nonprofit

thebendmag.com

41

40

is dedicated to enriching the lives of children and adults with chronic illnesses and special needs by providing unique camping, environmental education, and retreat experiences.

40 Corpus Christi

under

They will raise money for Camp Aranzazu during the two ways that the 2018 CC40U40 class is honored. Tables and sponsorships are available for the awards breakfast in early May where all 40 honorees will be recognized on stage. Then, later that week on Friday, buy a ticket for the celebration social.

Nancy Madsen Oh My Goodness Boutique

While the CC40U40 is perhaps their most well-known event, the YBP group orchestrates many activities, socials, and presentations throughout the year.

Victoria Morales Driscoll Health Plan

“We have a networking committee that specifically organizes opportunities for professionals to meet and expand their network. We have a social committee who puts on an event every quarter – just for fun. There’s a speaker series committee where they put on different events related to different topics in our community,” says Wagner.

“And we just began professional development classes.

There are four this year and they’re completely free for members.” When it comes to memberships, Wagner also notes that they are always accepting new members.

Year-round registration forms are on their web site, and it only costs $50 for a 12-month YBP membership.

It’s an organization that’s dedicated to pouring into its members and the community, because it’s a part of their mission to serve our area, “through leadership, education, volunteerism and the recruitment and retention of young professionals in the Coastal Bend area.”

And when Wagner describes the YBP board, who is made up of passionate people eager to make an impact in their hometown, it’s clear that their mission is thriving.

“They genuinely care about Corpus Christi,” he continues. “They want to move up in their careers, they want to give back to the community, and they want to do that right here. They’re not trying to get to another big city, like Austin or Houston. They want to be in Corpus Christi and help it grow. We see all the great things that are happening in our community, and these are people who share that same vision.” To learn more, visit www.ybpcb.com/

42 The Bend

Kathryn Mills Cindy Boudloche Trustee

Shelby O’Brien General Land Office Dusty Oliveria Self Heather Orr Code 3 ER – Rockport Ashley Ramirez Coastal Bend Blood Center Matthew Rodriguez Davis, Hutchinson & Wilkerson, LLP Sarah Scott Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi Parmyeer Singh Royal India & Singh Education Services LLC Ryan Smith Self Ashlee Struchen CSA Marketing Group Randy Webb RK Webb LLC Mayra Zamora Mira Mayra Art

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CONGRATULATIONS to the court of Coronation 2018!

We’re proud to display the gown of The Duchess of Vivacious Amusement of the 2016 Coronation Court in our lobby this month.

Come enjoy a little glamour of the court yourself with a consultation with Carly, make up artist to Duchesses for the past two years!

361-452-2637

1752 Santa Fe St., Corpus Christi TX

halcyonmedspa.com thebendmag.com

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44 The Bend

28 meal

steals CHEAP EATING CAN STILL MEAN GOOD EATING

Let’s be honest, everyone loves a fantastic tasting meal.

Everyone also loves an insane bargain. Put the two together—cheap eats, if you will—and you’ve got a match made in heaven. We searched through many local restaurants and curated a list of crazy good food you can get for under 13 dollars. Happy eating!

By: Kylie Kinnett Photos by: Rachel Benavides

thebendmag.com

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should be on a list of places to eat.

Their service is similar to going to your grandmother’s house and being treated like the most important person in the world. Their food is of the best quality, made from scratch with only the freshest ingredients, and their prices (no pun intended) are hard to beat. “The motto here is: good food, fast,” says Luis, and he is not lying.

You can get a variety of daily specials for under 10 dollars that are sure to fill you up and leave you feeling more than satisfied.

Similar Cheap Eats $6 Snapka’s: Dixie Double

Meat Double Cheese Burger 4434 Weber Rd., Corpus

$8

Christi, TX 78411 & 4760 Leopard St., Corpus Christi, TX 78408

$8 Vick’s Famous

Hamburgers:

The Ultimate Burger 4989 Ayers

St., Corpus Christi, TX 78415

$10 Sandi’s Diner: The 7 Chevy

Omelet with cheese, onions, tomatoes, mushrooms, bell peppers, and a side of toast or a biscuit and potatoes 704

DINERS & DIVES: PRICES CHEF

1800 S Alameda St., Corpus Christi, TX 78404, (361) 883-2786

At Price’s Chef, tradition reigns supreme. From the moment you walk into the diner (complete with familial vibes that make you feel right at home) to the second you get your check, the staff makes sure your experience is nothing short of superb.

“Anybody can cook a good meal once,” says Luis Guerrero, who owns the restaurant with his wife Zora. “But, if you can cook that same meal for people time and time again, that is hard to do, but it’s what we are best at.”

Originally named “The Chef,” the diner’s

46 The Bend

Ayres St., Corpus Christi, TX 78404

doors opened in 1939, and they have been serving good food and nostalgic memories to the community ever since.

The Guerrero family moved to Corpus Christi from Los Angeles in 2006 and jumped on the opportunity to buy Price’s when they saw it was for sale. They knew it was something good.

When taking over, the family knew right off the bat they didn’t want to change anything. “To this day we still have the same lunch specials, the same brand of bacon, it’s all the same,” says Luis.

There are plenty of reasons why Price’s

$11 Googly’s: 10-piece Jumbo

Wings Combo (option of 12 different sauces) with fries 6062

Holly Rd. Ste. B1, Corpus Christi, TX 78412

$7 Hamlin Fountain & Gifts:

Jesse’s Special complete with eggs, sausage, onion, jalapenos, topped with cheese, and a side of hash browns and toast 3801 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX 78411

$5 Steerburger Grill & Grub:

The Steerburger is cooked to perfection and topped with your choice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and pickles 4407 TX-35 BUS, Aransas Pass, TX 78336

FOOD TRUCKS: MISS AREPA A new flavor arrived in the Coastal Bend last

October by way of Miss Arepa’s food truck. Eva and Saul Parra and their two sons, Daniel and Saul Jr., comprise this family owned and operated business.

Miss Arepa, named after their main dish, specializes in the Venezuelan cuisine that the Parras have eaten their whole lives. Their purpose for starting the food truck? They wanted to bring a taste of Venezuela to Corpus—a taste they felt as though the city was missing.

Saul is the main chef behind the insanely delicious food the truck puts out. With both Saul and Eva being in the medical field, they wanted to combine their love for food and culture with healthy eating.

With that being said, Miss Arepa’s food might be better for you than you think. “We wanted to create a menu that was as healthy as it could be and still taste good,” says Eva. The arepas are grilled not fried, making them a perfect choice for the health conscious. The Parras only use fresh ingredients, maintain a gluten-free menu, and are always cooking with a low-fat diet in mind. Everything Miss Arepa serves is made completely from scratch. Some of their dishes contain turmeric, a spice that is packed with antioxidants.

“We wanted to melt our knowledge of health and nutrition into our love for food,” Eva says. She points out that cooking fresh is a lot more work, but it is worth it in the end when they serve the final product to their customers. When it comes to customers, Miss Arepa’s sure are satisfied.

There is no denying that every dish is made with love, care, and bold flavors. Eating healthy isn’t always eating cheaply, and that is one thing the Parra family wanted to achieve with this business.

“At the beginning, I thought we weren’t going to sell even one Arepa,” Saul says. “Then we opened up, and now we have lines that form at our order window—it really is amazing.”

Find Miss Arepa on Facebook to see where their truck will be next. (361) 413-2003

$8

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thebendmag.com

47

Find it

FOOD TRUCK FINDER:

If you are interested in eating out at a food truck but never know where it will be parked at, have no fear. There is a Facebook group called “Corpus Christi Food Truck Finder” as well as a website called “Street Food finder” that will help you stay up to date on your favorite truck’s location.

Tip

SHARING IS CARING:

Before ordering, think about it—are you really that hungry? If your stomach can afford to share a meal with someone at the table, your wallet will definitely thank you. Ordering a larger portion, that might cost more, allows you to still try some of the more expensive things on the menu without breaking the bank.

48 The Bend

SUBS & SANDWICHES: YO PHILLY CHEESESTEAKS “If you are going to call yourself Philadelphia sandwiches, it’s gotta be authentic,” Nick Catalano says as he tells the story of his dad asking him to take over the restaurant. When you walk into Yo Philly’s Cheesesteaks, you leave the Coastal Bend momentarily. You walk into Eagles country, where the Whiz is fresh and the bread is from Jersey.

$11

Moving from Jersey to Corpus Christi in July 2017, Nick wanted to bring “the real deal” to Yo Philly’s. After living in the Northeast for his entire life, he definitely knows a thing or two about a cheesesteak. The authenticity of the food is proven in the response of their customers. “I can’t speak for everybody,” Nick says, “but 99% of the time people are coming back up to the counter to tell us they love our sandwiches.”

The authentic experience goes beyond the food. The atmosphere takes you to a sand-

3314 Surfside Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78402 wich shop right out of Philadelphia. Eagles memorabilia decks the walls, employees converse with one another and customers, and southern hospitality is slightly altered with a more northern sense of humor.

There is no denying Yo Philly Cheesesteaks has nothing but top-notch food. Whether you are looking for the traditional cheesesteak or a burger filled with two patties, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and pickles, they have a meal with your name on it. None of their sandwiches exceed 12 dollars, and the servings are ample.

Nick knows he can’t please everyone, but that definitely doesn’t stop him from trying. “They don’t have to like me or my personality,” he says with a laugh. “But, I will try 110% to give each person a great sandwich. No questions about it.”

Similar Cheap Eats $12

SURFSIDE SANDWICH SHOP:

Meatball Grinder made with homemade meatballs, marinara, and mozzarella served with your choice of pasta salad, potato salad, or coleslaw 15113 SPID, Corpus Christi, TX 78418

JOINT VENTURE: 5-0 Sandwich made with Texas smoked ham, smoked cheddar, vine ripened tomatoes with spring mix, topped with honey mustard aioli, all on hemp infused bread 6355 SPID, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 $7

$10 HULA PEACH: Tuna Salad Deli

Sandwich: Combo meal comes with your choice of bread, cheese, and toppings, served with fresh fruit or chips, a pickle, and a drink 3823 S Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX 78411

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CZECH-MEX BAKERY AND CAFÉ:

Czech-Mex Sandwich made with your choice of meat with lettuce, tomatoes, onion, bell pepper, sweet peppers, olives, and jalapeno with chips, a pickle, and a cookie 150 American Bank Plaza, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

SHEMPY’S GRILL: Ribeye Sandwich with Shempy’s choice ribeye thin-sliced and lightly sprinkled with their house spices, topped with grilled onions, and served on a Kaiser roll 3913 TX-35 BUS, Rockport, TX 78382 $9

NOLAN’S: Nolan’s Famous Po’boy Sandwich made with ham, salami, corned beef, Swiss and American cheese on French bread, served with beans and potato salad or fries 2330 Airline Rd. Ste. A, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 $7

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INTERNATIONAL FOODS: EIRINIS GYROS & MORE: 4360 S Alameda St., Corpus Christi, TX 78412, (361) 334-2150 “I cook the food here like I cook for my family at home.

If it isn’t good enough for my house, it isn’t good enough for my customers.”

Maria Loukanaris, the owner of Eirinis Gyros & More, lives by those words when it comes to the philosophy of her restaurant.

Eirinis, which opened up in late August 2013, is one of the only places in Corpus to get real, authentic Greek food. In the beginning, most people told Maria a small, hole-in-the-wall Greek restaurant wouldn’t survive, but she set out to prove them wrong. “I figured, whatever you know the best is what you will be the best at,” she says.

The menu is small and simple yet jammed packed with bold flavors. From the traditional lamb gyros to the pizza fries, everything is made fresh with the

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Gyro Plate served with Gyro meat, a Greek salad, and basmati rice 3801 Saratoga

Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 78415

$13 ROYAL INDIA: Lunch

Daily Specials:

Almost all of these cheap eats restaurants have daily specials!

Specials allow you to get ample amounts of food for really great prices. Make sure to ask for the special of the day before you order, no matter where you decide to dine out.

Buffet with all you can eat Indian food 4455 SPID, Corpus Christi, TX 78411

$6

The atmosphere in Eirinis is what you would expect a Greek family home to be like. After all, Maria believes in treating each of her customers like family.

She cooks each dish to perfection and loves each of her customers. There is no denying the quality and authenticity of the food she serves. Each day of the week brings a new daily special that comes with a hearty portion of food, a small Greek salad, and a drink all for $9.99.

Whether you are looking for traditional gyros, skewers, or dolmades, Eirinis has all your cheap eats desires covered.

$10 BIG BOWL KOREAN BBQ:

Bulgogi, which comes with sliced beef marinated with special BBQ soy sauce, steamed white rice and 2 sides 6410 Weber Rd. Ste. 19,

Corpus Christi, TX 78413

$10 Z-COUNTER: Beef

Short Rib Rice Bowl

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served with fried potatoes, beans, and 2 tortillas 3703

Morgan Ave., Corpus Christi, TX 78405

50 The Bend

highest attention to detail.

Asking Maria to choose her favorite dish on the menu is similar to asking parents to name their favorite child. “Oh, they are all my babies,” she says with a laugh.

lunch meal 15137 SPID., Corpus Christi, TX 78418

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WE LOVE CREATING

BEAUTIFUL SMILES Vela Dental Centers offers family, implant and cosmetic dentistry in Corpus Christi and Kingsville. Our dentists and team are committed to providing you and your family with not just excellent dental services, but excellent customer service.

Visit any of our 3 dental ofďŹ ces for all of your general dentistry needs. Our stateof-the-art ofďŹ ces make use of the latest in dental technologies and techniques.

Along with general dental care, our dentists provide quality cosmetic dentistry.

We can also conveniently straighten your smile with ClearCorrect or 6 Month Smiles, achieving great results in as little as 6 months! Replacement of missing teeth with dental implants as well as full mouth rehabilitation will help recreate your smile! The use of digital imaging, laser dentistry, and additional advanced technologies helps us provide you the best care available.

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Restore Your Smile in a Day Can just four implants replace all of the teeth on the top or the bottom of your mouth? Thanks to advances in dental implant technology, you don’t have to travel to the “big city” to say yes.

Tooth loss is extremely common among adults. In fact, more than 35 million people in America are missing all of their upper and/or lower teeth. Rather than living with the discomfort and hassles of dentures, many people are opting for what is called “all-on-four” dental implant restoration.

A dental implant is a small titanium screw that fits inside your jawbone and replaces the root-part of a missing tooth.

Minor surgery is required to insert the implants. Once the implant is in place, a crown is attached to give you a highly realistic-looking and functional prosthetic tooth. If addressed early enough, individual tooth replacement is right for most people.

However, you do not need a dental implant for each and every one of your missing teeth. All you need is four pre-

cisely placed implants per arch, to restore your full smile.

This helps to maintain a more youthful facial structure—and better oral health. But perhaps the biggest surprise about the all-on-four is how quickly it can transform your life.

If you’re tired of ongoing dental problems, unhappy with your smile or have been told you may need multiple surgeries and costly solutions to fix your oral health, contact Dr. Ben Vela at the Vela Dental Center. We can restore your smile in a single day, and provide advanced solutions without the need to travel great distances or additional referrals.

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For more information, call Vela Dental Centers today at 361-994-4900 www.veladental.com

BENJAMIN VELA, DDS Dr. Vela has been practicing in Corpus Christi since 2006. As the owner of Vela Dental Centers, he has grown the practice to three dental centers by focusing on the patients’ needs, establishing great relationships, and providing consistently excellent results. He is skilled in providing all levels of dentistry to his patients and focuses on full mouth rehabilitation, oral surgery, short-term orthodontics, dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. thebendmag.com

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HEALTH BE WELL 58 MEDICAL MATTERS 62 MEET THE DOCTOR

64

What’s Inside Husband and wife duo, Dr. Lynn and Dr. Vance Crocker are helping heal the Coastal Bend in more ways than one.

The pair is teaching Kundalini Yoga to help others heal in both spiritual and holistic ways.

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55

HEALTH / BE WELL

The Healing Power of Kundalini Yoga Evidence based benefit to injured body areas By: Dayna Worchel Photos by: Rachel Benavides

D

r. Lynn Crocker and her husband, Dr. Vance Crocker, are both healers in the traditional sense of Western medicine. Lynn Crocker is the Chief Hospitalist at Christus Spohn Shoreline and Spohn South hospitals, where she works every day with patients who are critically ill or who may be recovering from other serious illnesses or surgery. Vance Crocker is a Corpus Christi dentist who often treats patients who stress out about coming to the dentist.

The two also practice the art of healing in a more spiritual and holistic way. They do this by offering a practice called Kundalini Yoga in their donation-based space called, Kosa Daya Kundalini Yoga Studio. The name means, “The Vessel of Compassion” or more directly, “The Body

56 The Bend

of the Divine.” The Crockers are the first to bring the practice to Corpus Christi in a community setting.

“Kundalini Yoga is very much a technology that encompasses all eight limbs of yoga. That includes what we know in Hatha Yoga as postures, or moving the body, but it also includes pranyam, which is breath,” Lynn Crocker said.

Kundalini Yoga teaches a variety of breathing techniques that have specific purposes, such as releasing tension, calming the nervous system, improving cognition, and producing quick energy. Kundalini also instructs practitioners about the ten bodies which make up the human body. These include the physical body, three mental bodies, and six energy bodies. Additionally, this style of yoga emphasizes the benefits of

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eating the proper foods and chanting.

In a recent Saturday morning class, which consisted mainly of Kundalini Yoga teachers, the response was enthusiastic. Most who attended were physicians, nurses, and others who work directly with patients. One student had recently undergone a double lung transplant and had seen the healing benefits first hand. A nursing student in the group had used the breathing techniques to help her patients.

“So, it’s a very complete technology that’s in every set we do. It’s very transformational. It’s not for everybody, but it’s been very special for me, as you can tell from the stories that people shared,” said Lynn Crocker, who is a doctor of osteopathic medicine and is board certified in internal medicine.

Lynn Crocker calls the Kundalini evidence-based and has seen her patients, including one former NFL football player, decrease the amount of medications taken for chronic pain while engaging in the Kundalini Yoga practice. “I offered some lavender essential oil to him, and he was able to cut down on the amount of narcotic pain medication he need-

ed. He also is a minister to the homeless, who said he needed to share it with people,” she said.

Vance Crocker explained the science behind yoga. “There have been cerebral blood flow studies about this particular practice. And you can actually see the infusion of blood flow into the area that has atrophied. And it actually nourishes it and actually starts morphing.

And so, there are structures that are visible that ultimately get plumped out. It actually works,” he said.

The yoga classes have been moved from their previous location at the couple’s home on Santa Fe Street and are now being held at several new host locations, including the Coastal Bend Wellness Foundation.

Follow the Kosa Daya Kundelini Yoga Studio on Facebook for more information on classes at https://www.facebook.com/KosaDaya/ For more information about the studio or about Kundelini Yoga, contact Dr. Lynn Crocker at 602-413-8105 or by email at arjandeva@ icloud.com.

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59

HEALTH / MEDICAL MATTERS

The Better Weigh for Weight Loss By: Alexis Mays Photos by: Rachel Benavides

Have you lost a few pounds but gained them back along with plenty of frustration? Here's what’s happening and how you can fix it.

L

ocal physicians know there is a “Better Weigh” to lose weight.

Dr. Lloyd Stegemann, M.D., F.A.S.M.B.S. is a physician who specializes in the treatment of obesity at The Better Weigh Center, a facility dedicated to helping area residents live a healthier life by achieving a healthier weight. Because obesity has a surprising number of serious health implications, this center aims to effect head-to-toe change.

“There are over 70 medical conditions that are directly related to obesity,” says Dr. Stegemann.

“When people think about weight related medical problems, they think of diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, but there are many things that people don’t think of – such as heartburn, gallbladder problems, and several types of cancers that are all linked to obesity. It literally affects every organ in the body.”

Even modest weight gain can increase risk factors for diseases. Dr. Stegemann states, “Being just 30 pounds overweight starts to dramatically affect health.”

It’s an issue being seen across the county. The CDC’s latest findings reveal that more than 35% of Americans are obese, and 34% are overweight.

Dr. Stegemann is not only devoted to fighting obesity but also to understanding it.

“Our understanding of obesity is so much better now than when I first got into the field. It is very clear that our bodies try to keep us at a stable weight,” Dr. Stegemann explains. “When we take in more calories than are burned, our body creates lots of changes to try and get this back to even, so we don’t gain too much fat. This means weight gain often happens slowly over years.”

However, this natural response can work against you. Many who have set out counting calories or exercising know the frustration of seeing their weight creep back up or stubbornly not move at all. That happens because bodies will attempt to protect the weight it’s regulated at – even if a body is overweight.

60 The Bend

“You can see this when you try to lose weight; the first five pounds are really easy to lose. The next five are much harder. It’s harder because your body is trying to get your calories in and calories out back to even. So, you’ll go down a little bit, and then plateau. Your body is literally fighting you, preventing you from losing weight, because it’s trying to keep your weight stable. It’s why, often times, it takes professional help for people to lose significant amounts of weight.”

This explains why exercise fads or crash diets are often referred to as “yo-yos.” The body will lose weight, but then works to return to its regulated weight. In fact, without professional help, the odds are not in favor of traditional weight loss methods.

“If someone’s body mass index is above 40, which for women is about 80 pounds overweight and for men about 100 pounds, they have less than a 5% chance of taking the weight off on their own and keeping it off, because their body is constantly going to be fighting them to put it back on. With bariatric surgery, they have about 85% chance to get to a healthier weight and then stay there.”

TA K E Y O U R E V E N T T O T H E N E X T L E V E L !

The Better Weigh Center offers a complete spectrum of care for each individual’s needs. Their results go beyond lost pounds; they have a positive ripple effect on a person’s overall health.

“When we see people’s weight get better, those medical problems get better as well.” And for Dr. Stegemann, knowing he’s helped someone live a longer, healthier life is the entire reason he loves what he does. “It’s incredibly rewarding work,” he says.

Diet, exercise, and sleep will always be staples in a healthy lifestyle. The Better Weigh’s services are another. From nutrition counseling to medications to bariatric surgeries, Dr. Stegemann and his team are ready to help you lose weight and gain years on your life.

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61

HEALTH / MEET THE DOCTOR

Practice Interest Areas: • Preventive Medicine • Comprehensive Primary Care for Adults • Geriatric medicine • Practice Management and compliance • Medical Education • Public Health

for family practitioners to start making changes in order to stay relevant in a changing healthcare landscape, including the possibility of a 24-hour primary health care clinic.

Dr. Walkers roots are deep in Corpus Christi, having graduated from Carroll High School and Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi. After graduating from the University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio, he completed a residency program at Corpus Christi Family Practice.

Dr. Walkers passion for family medicine comes from his desire to really understand and treat the whole patient. He is more detailed oriented and enjoys getting to know and understand the health concerns of each patient.

“I am trying to prevent something like a heart attack from happening,” says Dr. Walker. “My average new patient orientation is usually somewhere between an hour and two hours. You have to get to know the person, you have to understand their culture and their belief system. You have to listen to them and establish a long-term relationship with that person.”

A Passion for Family Medicine By: Jordan Regas Photos by: Rachel Benavides

Dr. Walker’s belief in the importance of family practices led him to spend the past fifteen months meeting with experts and researching the possibility of a 24-hour primary care clinic while working as a Partner and Staff Physician at Corpus Christi Medical Associates. He doesn't believe busy patients should have to choose between work and the doctor. His goal is for the new model to be a reality within two years. “We have grocery stores open 24-hours, we have gas stations open 24-hours, why can’t we have clinics open 24 hours?,” says Dr. Walker.

He is grateful to the team at Corpus Christi Medical Associates who have

James Stefan Walker, M.D. is determined to do been very supportive over the years. “They are like a family and have been whatever it takes to keep Family Medicine alive and very good to me. It is a very healing environment,” says Dr. Walker. well in the Coastal Bend.

D

uring his rotations as a medical student, Dr. Stefan Walker found himself gravitating toward the basic needs of each patient no matter the specialty he was learning at the time.

This began his attraction to the the field of family medicine. He was more concerned with the overarching needs of the patient. Although the field of family medicine is thriving, doctor owned practices are becoming the minority. Dr. Walker believes it is time

62 The Bend

He loves the Coastal Bend and hopes to leave the area with sustainable, non-fragmental health care, and a new way of looking at primary care. He knows the road ahead is challenging; however, his true passion for helping people live longer, healthier lives is really what drives him.

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2018

Looking for a new dentist or orthodontist? You have come to the right place.

The Coastal Bend offers locals and visitors plenty of reasons to smile, so make sure you love yours! Take some time to meet ten great dentists in the Coastal Bend.

They all have their own unique background and approach, but what they all have in common is a passion for helping patients and a love for making people smile. thebendmag.com

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PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Chad Allen D.D.S., M.S. ALLEN DENTAL GROUP

Baylor College of Dentistry Dr. Chad Allen’s extensive background in dentistry ranges from roofless shacks in Mexico to high rise dental practices in Dallas. After completing his dental schooling at Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Dr. Allen was selected to the specialty program for prosthodontics. He was fortunate enough to learn from an international array of specialists including time spent in Switzerland studying dental implants at dental schools in Bern and Geneva.

Dr. Allen has mentored many pre-dental students here in the Coastal Bend. All of these experiences combine to give him a wide range of skills and knowledge to serve patients.

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

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

Services Dental Implants Veneers Crowns Comprehensive Care Teeth Whitening

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

Corpus Christi Offices: 525 Doddridge Road. | 361.854.7999 6200 Saratoga Blvd. Suite 102 | 361.992.8900

Portland Office:

Contact:

101 Cox Drive. | 361.643.0416

drchadallen.com

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Jered B. King D.M.D Donald R. Anthony D.M.D SOUTH TEXAS ENDODONTICS Louisiana State University Dr. King graduated from Nova Southeastern University, Ft Lauderdale Florida (with honors) in 2005. He completed a one-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry at Mike O’Callahan Federal Hospital in Las Vegas. He went on to complete his Endodontic Residency at Louisiana State University and Keesler Medical Center with the USAF. He served in the Air Force for eight years as a General Dentist and Endodontist. Dr. King is published in the International Endodontic Journal and received his Diplomate status with the American Board of Endodontics in 2011. In 2012, Dr. King joined Dr. Donald R. Anthony and created South Texas Endodontics.

South Texas Endodontics is the only practice in the Coastal Bend offering two Endodontists, Dr. King and Dr. Anthony. It is also the only office with a Board Certified Endodontist that lives and works in Corpus Christi.

They are also the only endodontic office that offers IV sedation. Dr. King has a strong background in sedation for anxious patient and dental surgeries.

Dr. King and Anthony are backed by a hard-working staff who loves and takes care of patient needs and their questions. They believe it’s critical to treat the patient, not simply the tooth. Their goal is to help his patients get out of pain and finds it rewarding to take the fear out of getting a root canal.

South Texas Endodontics is excited to move into their new office within the next year. Dr. King always strives to provide the best care with state of the art equipment.

He believes moving into the new office will only better strengthen that goal and allow his practice to continuously grow. He looks forward to being a part of the Coastal Bend community and is excited to serve the region for the next 25 years.

Services Root Canals Root Canal Re-treatments Root End Surgeries Root Amputations

Dr. King enjoys to go fishing, diving and loves the outdoors. He loves spending time with his family and is actively involved in local church youth and scouting programs. He looks forward to meeting you and taking care of your dental endodontic needs and helping you save your natural tooth.

Root Resorption Repair

Office Address:

Contact:

737 Everhart Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78411

southtexasendo.com 361.992.7871

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Roxanne G. Robertson D.D.S., M.S. STAR ORTHODONTICS University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Valedictorian, Accumulative GPA 4.0 University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Dr. Robertson was born and raised in Three Rivers, Texas and has lived her entire life in the Coastal Bend. She loves her community and is passionate about serving the families of Corpus Christi and the surrounding area.

When she opened Star Orthodontics, her vision was to build an orthodontic practice that focused on providing excellent patient care and outstanding customer service. Everything about Star Orthodontics is designed with the patient experience in mind – from the extended operating hours (open Saturdays!), cutting edge technology used to diagnose and treat, onsite in-house lab, flexible payment options, the spacious and comfortable office décor, and the many entertainment amenities offered to patients and their families when they visit. Dr. Robertson and her highly trained team are committed to providing quality orthodontic care to every patient and promise to make it a friendly, fun experience along the way.

Services Complimentary Initial Consultation Dental Braces for Children & Adults Invisalign® & Invisalign Teen® Flexible Payment Options Open every Saturday

The team at Star Orthodontics has changed over 26,000 lives by creating healthy, beautiful smiles.

Ask any one of them and they’ll tell you their favorite part of the job is the lasting relationships and treasured friendships they create with patients and their families…and that is something to smile about!

Office Address:

Contact:

4750 S. Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christ, TX 78411

starbraces.com 361.992.2483

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Alexander Lobaina D.D.S., M.A.G.D Loma Linda University Dr. Lobaina received his Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Loma Linda University in Southern California.

After obtaining his degree, he left for Washington State to begin practicing dentistry. Shortly after, he moved to Texas, where he could be closer to his family and he opened up his own practice. In his relentless pursuit of furthering his education, in 2015, he was awarded a Mastership in the Academy of General Dentistry, which is the highest honor from the Texas Academy of General Dentistry!

Dr. Lobaina takes pride in his well trained staff, who are committed to providing the best dental care while maintaining a safe and friendly environment. They firmly believe in treating their patients as they would like to be treated themselves and that integrity is an essential part of maintaining a successful business. When you go to Dr. Lobaina for dental care, you can be sure their upmost priority is helping you in the pursuit of your best smile!

There is a very family-friendly atmosphere at the office of Dr. Lobaina. He says one of his most cherished parts of the job is meeting a patient’s family and caring for each of them. Providing the dental care his patients need is number one on his list of to-do’s, but building relationships with his patients is a reward all in itself.

The Nueces Valley District Dental Society, the Corpus Christi Dental Study Club, the American Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry, are all local dental chapters Dr. Lobaina is involved with. While he has a heart for helping those in Corpus, one of his favorite activities takes place a little further away from home! He has been privileged to care for under-served populations in both Nicaragua and Peru on different dental mission trips and plans on doing more of these in the future.

Services Cosmetic Dentistry Endodontics

Dr. Lobaina and his staff strive to provide the highest level of dental care for each of their patients. In order to do this, they will always focus on personalized service, keep up to date with current technology, and follow the industry’s best practices. Special last words from Dr. Lobaina? Don’t forget to change your toothbrush!

After being sick from a cold, sore throat, or the flu, your toothbrush bristles can hide away germs and this can lead to infection!

Restorations Dentures Implants

Office Address:

Contact:

5756 S. Staples St. Suite I, Corpus Christi, TX 78413

lobaina.com 361.991.7791

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Kenneth Gonzales D.D.S., P.L.L.C. KENNETH GONZALES, D.D.S. Texas A&M University University of Texas Health Science Dental School at San Antonio Dr. Gonzales graduated from Texas A&M, College Station with a B.S. in Biology, and then proceeded to receive a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center Dental School, San Antonio, the #1 dental school in the nation at the time. He continues to further his education in cosmetic dentistry, adhesion dentistry, implant restorations, or¬thodontics with Invisalign®, and CEREC technology.

He has a highly qualified, friendly and caring staff, who understands and follows the doctor’s attitude of genuine appreciation and care for all patients. The entire team continue their dental education along with Dr. Gonzales, for the advancement of dentistry to benefit the patients, and themselves as health care providers. They strive to always make sure the patient experience is as comfortable as possible. One of the ways they accomplish this is with CERC technology, which makes it possible to provide a dental crown in one visit if the patients meets the criteria. The whole team at Kenneth Gonzales, DDS PLLC are determined to create an experience that is unlike any other.

Dr. Gonzales has held several positions of leadership with The Nueces Valley District Dental Society, the local component of the Texas Dental Association, and with the Corpus Christi Dental Study Club. As a family man, Dr. Gonzales was involved as an assistant scout master with his son’s boy scout troop, who is now attending Texas A&M College Station and is following his father on a path to become a dentist as well. Dr. Gonzales enjoys travelling when possible, and exercising with his wife Wendy, who is a registered nurse.

Services CEREC (one visit crowns) Cosmetic Dentistry Implant Restorations Invisalign® (clear braces)

The future for Dr. Gonzales is bright! Patients enjoy their practice location and its proximity to the growing South Side. The happiness Dr. Gonzales sees and hears in his patients upon seeing their new smile is what drives him and his team. With every new smile is a chance for a new journey.

Family Dentistry

Office Address:

Contact:

7426 S. Staples St. Suite 101, Corpus Christ, TX 78413

gonzalessmiles.com 361.992.2421

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Delaine R. Farias D.D.S University of Texas at Austin University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio Successful Completion of: • American Board of Craniofacial Dental Sleep Medicine written exam • Craniofacial Pain Mini-Residency at the American Academy of Craniofacial Pain Institute • Dental Sleep Medicine & Temporal Mandibular Disorders Diagnosis and Treatment at the TMJ & Sleep Therapy Research

Dr. Delaine R. Farias enjoys the opportunity to give patients a healthier, more productive life through better sleep and less pain. Dr. Delaine R. Farias is a dentist with a unique, extensive educational background addressing complex medical management of TMD/TMJ disorders. She is dedicated to the treatment of TMJ Disorders & Sleep Disordered Breathing/Apnea with the use of non-surgical therapies for an improved quality of life.

Sleep apena can affect anyone – fit or overweight, old or young, male or female. If left untreated, sleep disordered breathing raises the risk of serious consequences. Dr. Delaine R. Farias spends ample time with every patient, getting to know each one personally and making sure they understand their diagnosis and treatment.

Services Temporomandibular Joint Pain Obstructive Sleep Apnea General Dentistry Approved by the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine for the “Qualified Dentist” designation

Dr. Delaine R. Farias has provided community education on the issue of Sleep Health Awareness, empowering others with knowledge to help themselves and their loved ones. She has provided Obstructive Sleep Apena (OSA) screening questionnaires along with a patient education presentation on OSA at local health fairs. She participated as a guest speaker at the Diabetes Education program, Coastal Bend Health Education Center | Texas A&M University. She has also been a guest speaker for the Corpus Christi District Dental Hygiene Society and conducted a presentation on the treatment of OSA with Oral Appliances for the medical community.

Dr. Delaine R. Farias uses advanced technology and techniques to diagnose and treat patients, but her primary goal is to truly improve their lives. Those who snore, constantly feel tired, wake up with headaches, or wake up more than once during the night, may be one of millions suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apena. OSA is a real medical disorder covered by medical insurance. She is a DME Medicare provider and DME Tricare provider. She is here to help anyone who is tired of being tired and wants to restore the quality of their sleep, reduce pain, and take back their life.

Office Address:

Contact:

7426 S. Staples St. Suite 101, Corpus Christi, TX 78413

361.452.7267

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Colin Mihalik, D.D.S.,M.S. CC BRACES Board Certified Orthodontist Dr. Colin Mihalik realized his life-long dream of working in his own orthodontic practice when he purchased Ingraham Orthodontics in February of 2018. With 24 years of practice in the U.S. Air Force and nearly 4 years at Star Orthodontics of experience, he is excited to introduce CC Braces, where your smiles are his top priority.

Dr. Mihalik began working alongside Dr. Ingraham in December, 2017. He wanted to meet and start to care for his patients in order to ensure the easiest transition possible for everyone. He and his wife of 30 years, Kim, have received a warm welcome from the patients and families, and Dr. Mihalik looks forward to giving them beautiful smiles to treasure for life.

Dr. Mihalik has been practicing dentistry since 1994 and Orthodontics from 2002, upon earning his Master’s degree at the University of North Carolina. Dr. Mihalik then took a step further in his education, and has been Board Certified by the American Board of Orthodontics since 2005. Although Dr. Mihalik’s education was long and intense, he believes in going above and beyond for the best possible patient care. At CC Braces, our goal is an unparalleled quality of service from a friendly and helpful staff! Dr. Mihalik and his team of experienced Registered Dental Assistants are committed to providing the best orthodontic care and service to transform your smile. We start with a specialized treatment plan for each patient, utilizing state-of-the-art technologies to meet patient’s unique needs. From the children in our Kids Club to teens and adult patients, we strive for an incredible orthodontic experience for everyone.

Services Complimentary Smile Exam and Consultation Provider of Invisalign® and Invisalign Teen® Kids Club to monitor younger patient’s growth and development at no charge

Although the precision and detail required in Orthodontics is his passion, he admits that the opportunity to give his patients their most beautiful smiles is the true motivation behind his career. And when does Dr. Mihalik himself smile the most? He says, “The first time patients see their smiles after the braces come off, and you can see how confident they are with their new smiles. I’m just grateful to be a part of it.”

Family Care Program

Enclave Office:

Contact:

5525 S. Staples, Bldg C, Corpus Christi, TX 78411

info@ccbraces.com 361.992.4746 • ccbraces.com

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES James Duncan D.D.S DUNCAN DENTAL STUDIO

Corpus Christi State University Univ. of Texas Health Science Center - San Antonio Dr. Duncan went to elementary school in Germany and high school in a small Texas town. He graduated from Corpus Christi State University with a B. S. in Biology and received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from one of the nations top dental schools, the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio. Furthermore, Dr. Duncan completed a fellowship and mastership at the World Clinical Laser Institute. He is one of approximately 2,800 dentists worldwide to provide Pin Hole ® surgical technique for gum rejuvenation. Dr. Duncan’s expertise in cosmetic dentistry, with an emphasis in laser dentistry, allows him to perform many procedures, some without the need for a drill or anesthesia.

With personable, experienced staff, an inviting waiting area, and advanced technology, the whole experience at Duncan Dental is designed to provide a more relaxed atmosphere. As a general practitioner, Dr. Duncan’s work is very diverse, allowing him to provide a wide variety of treatments to his community. Dr. Duncan loves the challenge of dentistry and providing the best experience to patients. He thrives on staying up-to-date with the latest technological advances in dentistry and is excited to see what the future holds.

Services Pin Hole® Surgical Technique

Dr. Duncan is an active member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, Nueces Valley District Dental Society, and Corpus Christi Dental Study Club. He enjoys lecturing and training other dentists in laser technology as well as giving back through dental missions.

Laser Dentistry Cosmetic Dentistry Family Dentistry

Office Address:

Contact:

240 Reliant Drive, Portland, TX 78374

duncandentalstudio.com 361.643.3030

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Benjamin Vela, D.D.S. VELA DENTAL CENTERS St. Mary’s University University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio “We’re always striving to be on the forefront of dentistry through advances in technology and techniques” says Dr. Benjamin Vela. As a Corpus Christi native with degrees from St. Mary’s University and UT Health Science Center Dental School – San Antonio, his goal is to bring top notch dentistry and dental procedures to the Coastal Bend. Dr. Vela has practiced in Corpus since 2006 and, as the owner of Vela Dental Centers, has grown the practice to three dental centers by focusing on the patients’ needs, establishing great relationships, and providing consistently excellent results. He is passionate about helping patients love their smile again.

Dr. Vela has consistently continued his advanced education with a multi-disciplinary approach, having attended courses in orthodontics, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, practice management, and surgery.

At the forefront of innovation, he is always attempting to provide the most up-to-date dentistry available while maintaining consistent throughout the process. He has received his Fellowship in the International Congress of Oral Implantology and continues to pursue further designations. Using his extensive experience and knowledge base, his all inclusive office offers a range of services, from simple cleanings and fillings, to full mouth rehabilitation and cosmetics.

In the professional community, he plays an active role in both the American Dental Association and Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Vela has received recognition locally and state-wide as an excellent provider, nominated as AGD Texas New Dentist of the Year 2012 and 2014 HealthCare Heroes recipient. In 2018, he was nominated for the prestigious Dentist of the Year award by the Texas Association of General Dentistry.

Services General Dentistry Oral Surgery Short Term Orthodontics Dental Implants

Dr. Vela is married to Carla and they have three children. They are supporters of Driscoll Children’s Hospital, Triumph Over Kid Cancer along with other local and national organizations in the fight against childhood cancer.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Office Address:

Contact:

4822 Holly Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78411

veladental.com 361.994.4900

PROMOTION

DENTAL PROFILES Timothy A. Kuhlman, D.D.S. KENNEDY DENTAL CARE ORTHODONTIST Ohio State University College of Dentistry Tri-Service Orthodontic Residency Program in San Antonio Because Kennedy Dental is a pediatric dentistry office, many parents don’t realize that Dr. Kuhlman is qualified to provide orthodontic treatment to both children and adults. He is happy to help anyone who needs braces.

Parents can easily get braces for their children and themselves all in one place. With the introduction of Invisalign for both teens and adults, Kennedy Dental is now taking the ease and convenience of creating a beautiful smile to a whole new level!

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

Services Orthodontics (Children & Adults) Invisalign (Teens & Adults) Pediatric Dentistry

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

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

Corpus Christi Offices: Kennedy dental Care Pediatric Dentistry paulkennedydds.com

361- 992 - 9500

Saratoga Office:

6200 Saratoga Blvd, Bldg. 1 Corpus Christi, TX 78414

6200 Saratoga Blvd. Bldg. 1 3435 S. Alameda St. Suite A 13725 Northwest Blvd., Suite 270 Orthodontics Alameda Office:

3435 S. Alameda, Ste. A Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Oral Surgery Calallen Office:

13725 Northwest Blvd, Ste. 270 Corpus Christi, TX 78410

Enclave Office:

5525 S. Staples, Ste. A4 Corpus Christi, TX 78411

Contact: paulkennedydds.com 361.992.9500

United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce FOUNDATION Developing Leaders and Entrepreneurs to make a positive impact in the Coastal Bend.

THE IMPACTFUL PROGRAMS & INITIATIVES OF THE UNITED CORPUS CHRISTI CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FOUNDATION INCLUDE:

CONQUER THE COAST DIEZ Y SEIS DE SEPTIEMBRE HISPANIC HERITAGE EVENTS LEADERSHIP CORPUS CHRISTI LEMONADE DAY COASTAL BEND MANO A MANO SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM MI CASA ES SU CASA

The Mission of the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce Foundation is to DEVELOP and EMPOWER LEADERS and ENTREPRENEURS to make a POSITIVE IMPACT IN CORPUS CHRISTI. The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) supporting organization of the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce. To learn more about the Chamber Foundation, contact Executive Director, Yvette Lara at yvette@unitedcorpuschristichamber.com.

United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce Foundation 602 N Staples Street, Suite 150 Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 881-1800

VISIT US ONLINE AT UNITEDCORPUSCHRISTICHAMBER.COM! 78 The Bend

HOME & GARDEN OPEN HOUSE 80 SPACES 84 GARDENING 86

What’s Inside The Morris family transformed this dated 80s island home into the house of their dreams. With a relaxing color palette, a gorgeous view, and modern design elements, it has become their ideal dwelling place.

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HOME & GARDEN / OPEN HOUSE

80 The Bend

SEASIDE RETREAT Transformed from dated eighties to modern and sleek, this island home is the perfect getaway

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By: Jacqueline Gonzales Photos by: Jason Page

ichael and Tina Morris’s gorgeous, two story, island home is a true Gulf Coast treasure. The home once was featured on House Hunters, but the carpeting and overall 1980’s vibe turned off the prospective buyers. However, when the Morris family discovered the home in May 2017, it took Tina only five minutes to know she had found her dream vacation home—and new project.

Natural beauty comes to the forefront in the dramatic entrance, reminiscent of the tropical paradise that is North Padre Island. The muted pink synthetic stucco has been replaced with sturdier classic stucco in a warm Aztec Gold shade. Sophistication abounds in the open entryway, welcoming visitors with large picturesque windows and a glorious view of the canals.

The winding staircase catches your eye as you bask

in the beauty of the ethereal 22’ ceilings, complete with a cylinder chandelier. Follow the stairs to the bedrooms, which are meticulously decorated to evoke a light yet inviting coastal feel. In order to achieve this effect, Tina combined fresh, crisp white colors with pops of ocean blue and coastal décor.

Instead of removing the 80’s style sunken bar, Tina and Michael modernized it to add nostalgia and entertainment value—not to mention the view of the sunset from here persuaded them. A pool table in the formal dining room enhances the entertainment lineup. A linear chandelier casts the game area in a warm glow and similar to the orb chandelier located at the opening The large gourmet kitchen, once covered in granite and marred by damaged walls, now features white cabinetry and plenty of sunlight, giving off a pleasant ocean front vibe. The necessary renovations allowed the Morris family to install the type of ap-

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pliances they wanted and design the kitchen to their liking.

The marriage between ocean blue, teal, and crisp whites continues in the living room area. Shells, pelican statues, and glass fishing buoys in shades of ocean blue and teal fill the white shelving that flanks a wall-mounted 75-inch television and a fireplace. The pelican statues lend an especially nice touch to the décor since these popular shorebirds frequently join in on the relaxing views from the Morris home.

The home did not always have a fresh, crisp, and modern vibe. Tina made many renovations to the home for the perfect Morris touch. One of her favorite changes was maximizing the view of her home. She felt that with such incredible surroundings, why not let the view take the forefront and keep the decorations to a minimum. What better way to enjoy the view than through windows? Several walls were turned into windows, making a perfect use of lighting while focusing on the waterfront views from all bedrooms, living and dining areas. She also took safety measures and replaced the older flimsy windows with hurricane impact PGT windows.

Luckily, this addition came in handy as Hurricane Harvey hit shortly after her renovations were complete.

The aesthetics in the Morris home continue to satisfy as guests easily transition from a casual gathering area to an alfresco setting. Outside, guests are treated to a large private balcony with gorgeous views of the wetlands and ski canal.

The multi-level deck, including a covered pool, offers plenty of areas for guests to relax and enjoy the sunsets and warm breezes. In addition, the deck offers easy access to their boat. This covered outdoor area allows Tina and Michael to get into vacation mode, relax, and gaze at a magnificent sunset after a long workweek.

The piece de resistance is the purple and gold Louisiana State University flag, proudly flying on the deck. Being both Louisiana natives and LSU alumni, Tina and Michael agree that this flag adds the perfect finishing touch to the little island getaway, commonly known as “The Morris Fishing Shack.”

Whether Tina and Michael are up for entertaining friends and family or simply relaxing, their customized island home is an excellent place to be!

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PROMOTION B R I N G

Y O U R

MEMORIES T O

L I F E

Milestones creates custom awards, gifts, signs, and memorabilia for any occasion.

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ilestones is here to change the way you think of awards. Gone are the days of being restricted to a catalogue. When you walk into Milestones with an idea - they can make it happen. Milestones has a vast selection of standard trophies and awards, but they specialize in creating one-of-a-kind items for your specific organization or occasion.

Local schools, athletic clubs, businesses and non-profits no longer need to go out of town to get the specialty items they want. Almost anything is possible with the equipment Milestones has on site. Come up with your unique concept using or combining materials like wood, stone, glass, crystal and acrylic. Giant letters, acrylic signs, and 3-D awards, and engraved mugs are just scratching the surface of what they can do.

Looking to capture a special memory or create a custom gift for a special occasion? Milestones can help you create the perfect gifts for teachers, holidays, baby showers, weddings, and anniversaries. Bring in almost any item to be engraved on site.

Bring in a picture of your idea or have Andrew Riojas and his team help you dream up something special. Not a designer? No need to worry. Milestones can show you examples and options based on your goals and offers inhouse graphic design services.

Milestones is located at 1526 S. Staples in Corpus Christi. Come visit their new showroom and discover the endless possibilities for yourself. Don’t let your next milestone get mixed in with the others.

SAMPLE

OFFERINGS Custom Jobs Corporate Awards Desk Accessories Donor Walls Crystal, Glass, & Acrylics Artistic Glass Executive Glass Medals, Pins, & Ribbons Plaques Name Badges Signage Trophies Photos Cutting Boards Drink ware * Materials include Wood, Stone, Acrylic, Glass, and Crystal.

1526 S. STAPLES CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78404

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VISIT OUR SHOWROOM OR CALL TO SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION!

Milestones is a HUB certified, locally owned business. Andrew Riojas has a degree in Photojournalism and is a disabled Veteran who served in the Navy and worked for an oil company before launching Milestones in 2018.

MILESTONESTEXAS.COM

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361.288.2271

HOME & GARDEN / SPACES

GET FLOORED

Find the perfect rug to fit your personality, space, and cleaning preference

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By: Jo Anne Howell Photos by: Rachel Benavides

pop of color or a touch of texture is all a room needs to pull it all together. Rugs can accomplish just that.

With so many varieties of flooring these days, from concrete to laminate to wood, consumers are looking to soften up the ground they walk on while adding a certain style to the room. Rugs are being seen in all the magazines and blogs these days and no matter their size, they make an impressive impact.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Vinyl Mats

These are available in hundreds of styles and colors. This bold print struck me for a modern look that can transform any space with its durable nonstick surface. These are perfect for your kitchen, laundry room or outdoor environment

Hide

One of a kind hides are a design element that can’t be missed. This rug caught my eye for its uniqueness and versatility. These are environmentally friendly sourced and if cared for properly, will last a lifetime

84 The Bend

Shag

There is no denying…shag is back! Reminiscent of yesteryear, shag rugs are the ultimate comfort under my toes. Not only are they super fun in a variety of colors, but they are also so easy to clean. Plush designs add a layer of texture that can’t be beat!

Natural

Plant based fibers make up rugs known as Sisal, seagrass, jute, and hemp. These rugs are perfect for the coast as they add that casual feel while still cozying up the place. They are easy to care for and come in a variety of colors, weaves and sizes.

Turkish

Loomed in Egypt, this colorful styled rug is durable, yet give the appearance of a fine rug made by hand. This look is all the rage for designers due to the color patterns, detail, and price point.

Find each of these rugs and more at Chic to Chic. Thank you to Milestones for the studio space.

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Bart Braselton

ECO-HOMES Keep You Cool Summer... The weather heats up, and everyone’s ready to hit the beach or the pool and head outside for some fun in the sun. But, while it may be the most laid back and relaxing time of year for every kid in America, it’s the most challenging season for older, used homes as they have to work overtime to keep the cool conditioned air in and the hot, humid South Texas air out.

However, for our New and Improved ECO-HOMES, summer is a “Breeze” as an ECO-HOME is engineered, designed and constructed to provide a cool comfortable and healthy indoor living environment, while maintaining as low a cost and carbon footprint, as possible. My family has been building homes made for the Coastal Bend climate for three generations- but we never stop looking for ways to raise the bar we set.

Our latest addition to the ECO-HOME is Open Cell Spray Foam Insulation, which seals walls and ceiling cavities against air movement. This prevents drafts, cold or hot spots and outdoor noise penetration, as well as the energy loss that can translate into a savings of up to 50% off of your heating and cooling costs.

Because of the savings and advantages that this insulation provides, we felt it needed to be in every Braselton home, and so we are proud to announce Braselton Homes has made Spray Foam Insulation Standard in Every Home We Build. With this included upgraded, we are the only home builder in the Coastal Bend to offer it in EVERY NEW HOME as a Standard feature!!!

This is just another of Braselton Homes’ firsts: we were the first local builder to Build Green, and the first to include Smart Tech standard in our homes. We also were the first to build a Pla-

tinum Level Coastal Bend Green Built Home, as well as the first to build a solar powered model home and, perhaps most importantly, we were also the first to Build the South Texas Healthy Home, a home that promotes and protects the health of your family.

For most Home Builders that would be good enough, but at Braselton Homes we haven’t become the largest home builder by just being “good enough”. In addition to the spray foam insulation, we have incorporated additional features that work in conjunction with this insulation to help provide a healthy indoor air environment; we have added new and improved home ventilation systems, including air purifiers, upgraded exhaust fans and HVAC ventilation in walk-in closets. With a Braseltonbuilt ECO-HOME, you can relax (almost as much as the kids this summer), knowing that we build Texas tough, and that your ECO-HOME is ready to handle our heat and humidity,(hurricanes, and even the occasional snowfall) while keeping the protection of our natural resources and environment in mind.

So, here is your Braselton Homes Summer Guide recommendation: take some time this summer to tour a Braselton ECO-HOME; while doing so ask questions about energy efficiency, and healthy indoor living.

We are always here to help, and if you are unsure of what to look for in a new home, visit any of our 8 fully furnished model homes; we will not only answer your questions, we will provide you with a new home checklist to take with you as you continue your search.

Bart Braselton is the Executive Vice President of Braselton Homes, the Coastal Bend’s oldest and largest Homebuilder and Neighborhood Developer. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Bart is the third generation of The Braselton family building in the Bay Area. Returning to Corpus Christi after earning a BBA in Finance, as well as a second degree in Real Estate, from the University of Texas, at Austin, Braselton began working in the family business as a construction superintendent. Since then, Braselton Homes has won numerous local, state, and national awards, including the Energy Star Leadership in Housing Award, as well as the Environments for Living Diamond Award for Energy Efficiency. And, the company has grown into one of the Nation’ s Largest Homebuilders, earning consistent rankings in the annual lists compiled by both Professional Builder, as well as Builder Magazine. Bart, a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi Class 18, has served on numerous local community and business boards, including the Coastal Bend Green Built Initiative, Bay Area Smart Growth, and the Police Foundation. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Development Corporation, the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, the Builders Association and the Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation.

Braselton and his wife, Michelle have 2 young children at home, and are active, with Braselton Homes, in community and church organizations throughout the city, including the American Heart Association, the ECF Community Center, and the Food Bank.

See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton

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HOME & GARDEN / GARDENING

The Forgotten Grain of the Aztecs Amaranth radiates with beauty, flavor, and history By: Justin Butts Photos by: Rachel Benavides

A

maranth is a gorgeous landscape or garden plant. It quickly grows up to six feet tall with lush foliage, scarlet or deepgreen leaves, and huge flower heads dripping with red or golden grain.

What’s more, both the leaves and grain of amaranth are delicious and highly nutritious! But this nearly perfect plant is seldom grown in Coastal Bend gardens.

Amaranth was a staple food crop of the mighty Aztecs, along with corn, beans, and squash. Amaranth also played an important role in their human sacrifice rituals. The Aztecs mixed amaranth grains with human blood to form little statues of Huitzilopochtli, the sun god. These statues were a delicacy and were eaten like candy.

Cortez was so outraged by this practice that he outlawed the growing of amaranth on pain of death. Cortez was so merciless and effective in his policies that he nearly wiped out amaranth altogether. But this lovely plant is finally resurging in the gardens of The Bend.

Amaranth is easy to grow and will thrive even in the heat of summer.

Once your plants are established, you will rarely if ever need to water them.

To seed amaranth directly into your garden or landscape, intensively plant the tiny grains in fertile, well-tilled soil. Thin the newly emerging (and delicious!) sprouts to a final spacing of twelve inches in all directions. Water the garden every few days until the plants are established.

Make your own amaranth transplants by filling small plastic cups nearly to the top with soil and poking holes in the bottom for drainage.

Drop a few tiny amaranth seeds on top of the soil and water lightly.

When the plants reach six to eight inches tall, plant them in a sunny space in your landscape. This is a fun learning experience for children.

Our favorite varieties include Juana’s Orange, Congo, and Green Cal-

86 The Bend

laloo. For stunningly beautiful and edible landscaping, try Hopi Red, Molten Fire, or Love-Lies-Bleeding.

Harvest your amaranth leaves anytime and cook them like greens. They taste similar to spinach but are richer in iron and vitamin C. Amaranth grains mature in about ninety days. Each stalk contains up to 60,000 grains. Sprinkle these protein-rich grains into bread, pancakes, and oatmeal.

Or, pop them like popcorn and mix with honey, nuts, and dried fruit to make your own sweet and healthy candy. In Mexico, this candy, called alegría, is formed into the shape of skulls during the celebration of Dia de los Muertos.

DESIGNED BY: Kathy Rumbaugh

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT:

361.851.8052

kathy@castorcollection.com

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88 The Bend

OUT & ABOUT ARTS & CULTURE 90 DATEBOOK 92 CELEBRATION 94 SOCIAL HOUR 96

What’s Inside We can’t stop thinking about the 3rd Annual Brunch on the Bay! Did you come out and brunch with us? If so, your picture just might have made its way into the Social Hour section.

thebendmag.com

89

OUT & ABOUT / ARTS & CULTURE

Where to Find Chels Marie Traveling Boutique can be spotted at both Wildflower Market Days and Rockport Market Days.

The boutique will also travel to private parties. Hosting an event with over 10 guests will earn you a $50 voucher to spend in the boutique.

Looking for the Perfect Fit Local traveling boutique sources original handmade designs with a vintage flair

A

By: Julieta Hernandez

n array of original, hand-constructed pieces, made primarily from vintage or repurposed fabrics and materials, can be found inside Chels Marie Traveling Boutique.

This fashion boutique, housed in a small, brightly colored trailer, is tailored to women who are looking for unique, one of a kind pieces.

Chelsea Marie Nye, boutique owner and operator, has been drawn in the direction of a boutique ever since her college years when she studied both business and fashion design. During this time, Chelsea made custom pieces for clients in between taking care of her four children.

“I wanted a place where I could do that and still be able to have the outlet,” Chelsea says about her clothes making. “Still be creative, still be able to meet women where they were at, still be able to serve them in that way.”

After opening up shop in her small, self-decorated trailer last summer, Chelsea began introducing her clothing to broader audiences through Wildflower Market Days and Rockport Market Days, and more intimate audiences in settings like private parties. The attraction to her boutique is not only the inviting vintage-style trailer, but also the clothing and accessories inside that are made using her own hands and ideas.

“I’ll find different styles that I’m drawn to, and from there I do lots of sketches. Sketch, sketch, sketch,” Chelsea states.

90 The Bend

She describes her process as ever changing with a fresh approach to making patterns, picking fabrics, and laying out designs as she creates.

Her inspiration is drawn from her own style as well as the vintage materials she repurposes. “It’s kind of my mission statement for my business, but also for life,” Chelsea says with a smile. “I want to take things that have been cast off and bring them anew, just like our Heavenly Father does. That’s kind of the same mentality going into my life as the designs.”

Anew is also the name of Chelsea’s collection of vintage pieces, which feature a tag with a picture of her grandparents, two big inspirations to her journey. Chelsea describes her grandfather as a business minded entrepreneur and her grandmother as the creative one who had an eye for fashion aesthetics. “She could take things from say, Neiman Marcus and the Dollar Store, and put them together and make them look amazing,” Chelsea says.

Chelsea also finds inspiration by redefining fashion for the modern woman during a time of fast fashion and competitiveness. In perspective, Chels Marie’s Travelling Boutique is an outlet for women to come in and feel unique, beautiful, and loved – a counterculture to the rapid clothing market that conditions them to believe otherwise. “I just want to tear down those lines,” Chelsea explains.

668 Moray | $224,900 | 3/2/2

901 N. Upper Broadway #502 | $299,900 | 2/2.5 235 Ohio | $399,900 | 4/2.5/2

8002 El Chiflon | $412,000 | 4/3/3

125 Ropes | $650,000 | 4/3/2 | Pool

10 Hewit | $750,000 lot 4500 Ocean #5C|-Vacant $350,000 De2/2/2 3438 Denver | $1,050,000 | 5/4.5/4 | Pool | Waterfront

6425 Long Meadow - $375,000

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4/2.5/2 | Golf Course

4/3/2

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668 Moray | $224,900 | 3/2/2

4510 Grand Lake | $289,000 | 3/2/1/2

901 N. Upper Broadway #502 | $299,900 | 2/2.5 8025 Etienne | $309,900 | 4/2/1/2

235 Ohio | $399,900 | 4/2.5/2

103 Ocean View | $339,900 | 4/3/0/2 | Pool

8002 El Chiflon | $412,000 | 4/3/3

5409 Ocean | $474,900 | 4/2/1/2 | Waterview

125 Ropes | $650,000 | 4/3/2 | Pool

216 Bayview | $799,000 | 4/5/0/2 | Pool | Canal

10934 Hewit | $750,000 | Vacant lot Coral | 3/2/0/4 | $219,900

5601 Ocean - $1,750,000

De 3438 Denver | $1,050,000 | Pool | Pool 6018 Ocean | $2,649,000 | 6/6/1/2||5/4.5/4 Waterfront

4/4.5/3 | Waterview

5134 Cape Fear - $765,000 6/4.5/3 | Pool

7

9

THURSDAY, JUNE 14 @ 7 PM

a celestial celebration

PRESENTING SPONSOR

@ THE ART MUSEUM OF SOUTH TEXAS 361.825.3500 WWW.ARTMUSEUMOFSOUTHTEXAS.ORG

TICKETS GO ON SALE

MAY 1 INDIVIDUAL TICKETS $75 HOST COMMITTEE $150 thebendmag.com

91

OUT & ABOUT / DATEBOOK

Mark Your Calendar MAY DATEBOOK

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY

Buc Days Carnival 2018 May 3rd – 13th Live music, pirate acts, amusements, and rides for all ages—Buc Days is here again! Bring the whole family out and enjoy activities such as the petting zoo, pony rides, games, crafts, food, and so much more. Head over to the Coors Light Buc Days Stage for musical acts like Clarissa Serna, Jake Ward, Roger Creager, and more. Don’t miss either of the two parades (May 5th and 12th) which are time honored traditions here in the Coastal Bend! There will be no shortage of fun at the 81st Buc Days! Downtown Corpus Christi, Texas, bucdays.com

COMMUNITY

Corpus Christi Food Truck Race May 26th JBBM Consulting & Promotions is partnering with The Beach 96.5 and the CC Regional Transportation Authority to bring the Coastal Bend its first ever Food Truck Race! This event will bring food trucks and non-profits together to provide great food, fun, and create exposure for local causes. Visit JBBM Consulting & Promotions on Facebook for more information.

92 The Bend

FESTIVAL

Westside Business Association 6th Annual Cinco de Mayo Celebration May 4th The Westside Business Association is putting on their 6th Annual Cinco de Mayo celebration and art fundraiser! This event will feature mariachi bands, Folklorico dancers, food trucks, shopping, and live music. Bring a lawn chair and your dancing shoes and help support the community’s youth!

Heritage Park, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

FESTIVAL

22nd Annual Rockport Festival of Wine & Food May 26th & 27th The Rockport Festival of Wine and Food helps raise the needed operational funds for the Texas Maritime Museum as well as providing fun and entertainment for the whole family! Join in on the fun where you can experience VIP wine tastings, lectures, food vendors, live music, shopping vendors, and beer booths. While there, you can purchase wine by the glass, bottle, or case!

1202 Navigation Cir, Rockport, Texas 78382

43rd Annual Beach to Bay Relay Marathon May 19th From the beach to the bay, this is the largest relay marathon in the entire country! The annual six-person relay running event celebrates Armed Forces Day and honors the men and women serving and protecting our country. All proceeds from Beach to Bay go to local charities in the Coastal Bend. Lace up those running shoes and get out there!

For more information visit beachtobayrelay.com

ARTS

Lunch Among the Masters May 18th The Art Museum of South Texas presents their Curators Conversing with Contemporary Artists lunch. Join the Art Museum for this enlightening conversation between curators and artists as they discuss their many experiences.

1902 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

2 NEW EXHIBITIONS OPEN MAY 18!

Sense of Home: The Art of Richard Stout

Target Texas: What Inspires

May 18 - September 2, 2018

May 18 - August 12, 2018

This exhibition was organized by the Art Museum of Southeast Texas, Beaumont, Texas.

This exhibition was organized by the Art Museum of South Texas, affiliated with Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.

Richard Stout, The Library at Alexandria, 1999, Bronze, 11 in. x 17.5 in. x 6 in.

Courtesy of the Artist and William Reaves / Sarah Foltz Fine Art, Houston, Texas

Richard Stout, Night Fishing (detail), 2004, Acrylic on canvas, 48 in. x 60 in., Collection of Judy and Barry Rose, Boise, Idaho

Rigoberto Gonzalez, Levanton, 2008, Oil on linen, 82 in. x 100 in., Collection of Matt Gonzalez

Sedrick Huckaby, The Family: Rising Sun, 2018, Oil on canvas on panel, 8 ft. x 6 ft., Collection of the artist

www.artmuseumofsouthtexas.org Funding generously

361.825.3500 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd.

Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

provided in part by:

The Fund for Houston Artists

Gayden Family Foundation Trust

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93

OUT & ABOUT / CELEBRATION

A Moment to Remember

EVENT DESIGN AND PLANNING Jo Anne Howell, Oh Goodie Designs + Events, LLC

How Beverly and Doug brought their dream wedding to life By: Jo Anne Howell Photos by: Heidi Rae Photography

O

verlooking the new Caribbean Journey exhibit, the wedding ceremony of Hannah Rohlack and Chad Skrobarczyk was a perfect view. Wooden chairs lined the aisle leading up to a wooden gate arbor full of fresh bountiful florals.

Vintage handkerchiefs were placed on an antique dresser for those teary eyed. A sand ceremony and a kiss sealed the marriage and guests made their way downstairs for a cocktail reception.

After the reception, amongst the large fish tanks and animal exhibits, guests headed to dinner in the Citgo Room. Soft tan colored matte, satin linens with a blush satin napkin greeted the guests as they sat for dinner.

Soft and overflowing florals, of cabbage roses, hydrangea, and eucalyptus spilled over their compotes for a vintage garden feel.

94 The Bend

GRAPHICS- Harper Gray Designs for Oh Goodie Designs

A delicious ice cream bar satisfied everyone’s sweet tooth as well as a “naked” cake towering and full of delicate florals.

CEREMONYTexas State Aquarium

The evening ended with a whole lot of dancing and a coffee bar ready to please with custom coffee cups and napkins for the taking.

SPECIALTY LINENS Butler Rentals

As guests said goodbye to the happy couple, bubbles filled the air! It was a beautiful evening full of love and laughter for everyone.

RECEPTIONTexas State Aquarium FLORALThe Blossom Shop

SPECIALTY RENTALSRoost & Co PHOTOGRAPHY- Heidi Rae Photography BRIDE’S CAKE- Simply Elegant HAIR AND MAKEUPCourtney Cotten Pollard, James Stanley Salon TRANSPORTATIONHarbor Driving

Live. Life.

Vibrantly.

For years, our community has served the residents and families of Corpus Christi and surrounding cities. Now, as part of the Solstice Senior Living family, our tradition of enriching lives will continue as we bring new enhancements to our already vibrant independent senior living community.

To learn more about all that Solstice has to offer, call us today for a complimentary lunch and a tour!

5518 Lipes Blvd | Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 986-0655 | www.solsticeatcorpuschristi.com

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thebendmag.com

95

OUT & ABOUT / SOCIAL HOUR

BRUNCH ON THE BAY 2018 Special thanks

to our sponsors CC Cycle Plaza: Sea Doo, Gignac Architects, and Neessen Automotive

1.

Photos by: Rachel Benavides

1. Dr. Sophia Ommani & Dr. John Lusins

2.

3.

2. Hannah Rodriguez, Brittany Rodriguez & Caitlin Uvalle 3. Kate E. & Jackson Clower 4. Ajia & Greg Fielden 5. Amy & Isaac Clubb, Amanda & Michael Miller 6. Jinky Romero & Adam Garcia 7. Brooke Sanders & Jessica Gignac

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8. Best of Brunch Winner 2018: Sugarbakers 9. Kim Sorrells, Kari Keeble, Courtney Pusley-Tegeler, & Kendra Rogers

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96 The Bend

6.

7.

8.

9.

OUT & ABOUT / SOCIAL HOUR

ST. JAMES SPRING FLING 2018 Photos by: Rachel Benavides

1. Ward McCampbell, Liz Alexander, Sara Smith, & Sandy McCampbell

1.

2. Jahvid Motaghi & Keri Orrell 3. Samantha Gates, Lindsey Pietsch, Lauren Brekken, & Michelle Ezell 4. Abraham Figueroa & Jeanette Lopez 5. James & Katy Gulsby 6. Carla Vela & Margie Durst Debbie Kahanek & Kathy Snyder

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| CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 361.882.8885

415 N. WATER ST.

Come see how we roll...

We invite you to come dine at the Coastal Bend’s premiere sushi spot, where tradition meets modern cuisine. A simple intimate atmosphere where the quality of food is equally matched by service. Our extensive menu will be sure to please and broaden the pallet.

98 The Bend

CUISINE FARM TO TABLE

100

DINING GUIDE 105 THE DRINK 106 THE DISH 110

What’s Inside Pack away all the colors, textures, and flavors from harvest season in order to have them year-round! These three recipes are straight from the larder and are sure to liven up your summer menus.

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CUISINE / FARM TO TABLE

100 The Bend

Love Your Larder:

Pickled Watermelon Rind, Herbed Onion Marmalade, and Ketchup Fill your larder for a taste of the sun every day of the year By: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Benavides

L

arder is an old-fashioned word for

The modern larder is more about flavor and most-

root cellar or pantry. In the not so

ly about love. When your favorite fruit or vegetable

long-ago days when people lived from

ripens in the garden, you want to capture and hold

the land, the larder captured the boun-

that taste for coming days. But more than that,

ty of the harvest. Crops would ripen all at once, and

nothing shows your family how much you love

the sudden abundance would need to be stored or

them than opening a jar from the larder. You will

“laid by” to feed the family in future days after the

see it in their faces. This feeling can’t be bought at

harvest became a distant memory.

the store. You have to make it.

However, preserving food has always been about

These easy, fast, and versatile condiment recipes are

more than survival. In the dark days of winter when

three of our favorite larder starters. You can find the

the forlorn land is covered in frost and warmth

ingredients in your garden or from a good farmers’

seems buried forever in the frozen soil, opening a

market.

jar from the larder is like opening the summer sunshine into your kitchen. All the colors, textures, and flavors of the harvest season are packed away in neatly stacked Mason jars, waiting to be enjoyed

Pickled Watermelon Rind has a sweet and spicy Old-World flavor. It comes from the part of the melon normally thrown away—your new favorite part!

throughout the year.

Herbed Onion Marmalade is the perfect condiment

On our farm, we have preserved thousands and

this ketchup is so good that you may never use

thousands of jars from our harvest for our family

store-bought again. Make plenty!

and our farm business. Kayla and our little ones lovingly fill these jars with everything from pork terrine to pickled beets to pie filling and much more. In lean months when the exhausted fields take rest, we eat and feed our customers from the larder. One year, we had so many jars stacked under beds, in drawers, and in closets that there was no room left for the clothes! The larder balances the flush and lean times for a sweet taste of the sun every day of the year.

for pretty much anything. And we must warn you;

These recipes do not require canning. They will keep in the fridge for weeks. To learn more about canning, check out the National Center for Home Food Preservation (ncfhp.uga.edu). Ball Mason Jars (ball.com) also has great information about pickling and canning.

The harvest is ripening in the field. Prepare your jars. Now is the season to fill your larder with love.

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101

PICKLED WATERMELON RIND Makes about 1 ½ quarts Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes INGREDIENTS: 2 lbs watermelon rind, green skin removed, diced ½ cup apple cider vinegar ½ cup white vinegar 1 cup granulated sugar 3 cinnamon sticks 1” ginger, peeled and grated 2 tbsp salt 1 jalapeno, diced DIRECTIONS: In a medium-sized pot, combine vinegars, sugar, salt, and cinnamon sticks over high heat. Once boiling, add watermelon, ginger, and jalapeno. Cook for 10 minutes. Turn off heat and let sit an additional ten minutes or until tender.

Transfer to clean jars and refrigerate for up to two weeks or pressure can for long-term storage.

102 The Bend

HERBED ONION MARMALADE

KETCHUP

Makes about 1 pint

Makes about 1 quart

Prep time: 10 minutes

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook time: 45 minutes

Cook time: 10 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

INGREDIENTS:

4 medium sized yellow onions, thinly sliced

1 tbsp olive oil

4 tbsp butter

1 onion, chopped

1 tsp salt

3 garlic cloves, chopped

¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

1 can (4.5 oz) stewed tomatoes

1/3 cup brown sugar

1 can (6 oz) tomato paste

½ cup white wine vinegar

¼ cup red wine vinegar

¼ tsp thyme

2 tbsp brown sugar

2 bay leaves

2 tbsp honey

1 sprig rosemary

1 tbsp fish sauce

DIRECTIONS:

1 tsp dry mustard

In a large pot, heat butter, onion, salt, and pepper over low heat. Stirring occasionally, cook the onions until they become a light brown color (about 30 minutes). Add remaining ingredients and continue to cook until liquid is reduced (about 15 more minutes).

1 tsp sea salt

Transfer to clean jars and refrigerate for up to two weeks or pressure can for long-term storage.

½ tsp black or cayenne pepper DIRECTIONS: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a medium-sized sauce pan. Add onions and cook for 2 minutes. Add garlic and cook an additional minute. Add remaining ingredients and cook until starting to simmer.

Remove from heat and transfer to a blender.

Blend until smooth. Transfer to clean jars and refrigerate for up to two weeks or pressure can for long-term storage. thebendmag.com

103

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Dining

Guide Padre Island

Outdoor dining

AMERICAN 8TE $ A shabby chic interior feel with classic comfort dishes that have a simple twist. They have it all breakfast, lunch, and dinner! 1220 Airline #250, (361) 723-0261, Facebook.com/8tecctx

ANDY’S COUNTRY KITCHEN $ You will feel right at home just like eat’n in mom’s kitchen. Great southern comfort food that gets back to the basics!

5802 S Staples St, (361) 993-0251, Andyskitchen.com

ATOMIC OMELETTE & GRILL $ Omelettes are just the beginning here! Comfortable atmosphere with a flavor for casual dining and handmade family recipes. 6313 Wooldridge Rd #10, (361) 334-3942, Atomicomelette.com

CITRUS BAYFRONT BISTRO $ Enjoy everything homemade, even down to the pie crusts with a gorgeous view of the marina.

100 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 882-2047, Citrusbistro.com

THE EXCHANGE $$ From the floor to the ceiling, the walls, to your mind, and even right down to your palate, visiting The Exchange brings a sense of “home” to a downtown experience.

224 N. Mesquite St, (361) 414-9788, theexchangecc.com

HAMLIN PHARMACY & FOUNTAIN $ The last Soda Fountain in Corpus Christi, TX! Although they’ve expanded and changed over the many years, their old fashioned values and friendly service has remained the same. 3801 S Staples St, (361) 853-7303, Hamlinpharmacy.com

Port Aransas

IRIE’S ISLAND FOOD $

Rockport

Live music

THE GRILLE $

With bold purpose and flavor craving taste buds, they set forth a new twist on local fare and many culinary delights from islands around the globe.

503 N Alister St, (361) 749-2310, Iriesislandfood.com

Ensures you’ll always have the variety that is the spice of life! With ingredients sourced from Texas, burger patties and soups are all made from scratch.

3063 Main St, (361) 775-1000, Facebook.com/thegrillingleside

MACDADDY’S FAMILY KITCHEN $$

THE GROOVE $$

Serves BBQ, Fried Chicken & Seafood. Big tables for big groups, they’ll also deliver!

118 Beach St,(361) 749-2271 Macdaddysfamilykitchen.com

PADRE ISLAND BURGER COMPANY $$ Burgers, burgers, and burgers!

Build it yourself or choose from their handcrafted menu.

11878 TX-361, (361) 949-3490, Padreislandburgercompany.com

A little something for every discriminating craving with an eclectic dining experience. Nothing is ever frozen or put in a fryer!

2001 N Hwy 35, (361) 729-3663, Thegrooverockport.com

THE POST $$ Enjoy this pub in a communal setting with dishes that are meant to be shared, all alongside a cocktail or beer of course! 3850 S Alameda, (361)452-0907, thepostlamarpark. com

TOWN & COUNTRY CAFÉ $ SURFSIDE SANDWICH SHOPPE $ Dine inside or outside on the patio, and enjoy their large assortment of sandwiches and sides or have a nice cold beverage. Don’t forget the homemade desserts!

15113 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0505, surfsidesandwichshoppe.com

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

ASIAN

Corpus Christi

shows through from the dishes to the sushi bar.

4650 Corona Dr, (361) 808-8881, Facebook.com/imperialcafe

BARBEQUE HOEGEMEYER’S BBQ $$ Smoked fresh barbeque on a strong German heritage background and a satisfaction for something unique. South Texas barbeque that comes from the heart. 711 Concrete St, (361) 8844227, Hoegemeyers.com

MIKE COTTEN’S BBQ $$

Owned and operated by 3rd generation BBQ restaurant owners. They mesquite smoke the finest meats available and strive to provide the best food and service to their customers. 1702 US Hwy 181, (361) 704-6249, 15013 Northwest Blvd, (361) 933-0143, mikecottensbbq.com

BAR & GRILL BOATHOUSE BAR & GRILL $$ The best thing about the Boathouse Bar & Grill is that there’s something for everyone; a mouthwatering menu, 4 full bars with HDTVs, waterfront patio dining, friendly service, and a fun, relaxing atmosphere. 15241 Leeward Dr, (361) 589-9601, Boathousepadreisland.com

THE BLUE CLOVE $$ Indulge in the art of food with The Blue Cove. Family owned and served with love, this quaint little place will soon become your go-to spot for a weekend bite.

1945 Horne Rd, (361) 855-2927, facebook.com/TheBlueClove

THE GLASS PAVILION $$ Casual hotel eatery offering simple American mains and views of the sea. Did we mention they also offer a breakfast buffet? Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! 2nd Floor Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 8871600, Omnihotels.com

BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE $$ AKA SUSHI $$ Creative and daring rolls that work well together. The authentic Asian cuisine made with the chef’s homemade recipe will be sure to surprise you. 415 N Water St, (361) 882-8885 facebook.com/akasushidowntowncc

SANG’S IMPERIAL CAFÉ $$ Culturally dynamic décor brings an international ambiance to the atmosphere. Their commitment to the healthiest and freshest food

Who says that you can’t have 4-star food in a casual environment? Not the Brewster Street Grill! Bring your kids or stay for a concert, they have it all.

1724 N Tancahua, (361) 884-2739, Brewsterstreet.net

EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB $$ The perfect casual family dining spot. All the while supplying the most beer on tap in the city.

309 N Water St, (361) 884-7873, Waterstreetmarketcc.com/ executive-surf-club

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CUISINE / THE DRINK

Wine Down at D’Canters Wine & Delights Have a night of kicking back and sipping on some good wine at Corpus Christi’s newest family-owned wine bar

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very week, the Covarrubiaz family chooses a wine from their home selection to pair with one of their late grandmother’s recipes. They consider how certain wines complement the different flavors of the dishes and create a “wine and delight” match from there. This family tradition has paved the way for what is now one of the newest wine bars in Corpus Christi, D’Canters Wine & Delights.

This family business first opened its doors in November of 2017. The original concept was to only serve wine, but the family decided to broaden their selection to cocktails and beer in order to cater to By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Benavides non-wine drinking customers. Their main vision is simple: create a unique experience for the people of the Coastal Bend through a relaxing atmosphere, quality service, top notch drinks, and specials that are way too good to pass up.

The Covarrubiaz’s attention to detail is evident in the bar’s surroundings. D’Canters mixes hip and classy with their inviting and comfortable atmosphere. All of the bar furniture is made or

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refurnished by the family, which definitely adds a local touch to the establishment.

The bar prides itself with having one of the best wine selections in the Coastal Bend. Influenced by the family’s experience and taste in wine, they have the best of everything for any type of palate. With bartenders who are all well trained and informed in all things wine, it’s impossible to have a bad wine experience at D’Canters.

A delicious menu of appetizers and wine trays, including their Italian Tray and Latina Spice Tray, complement their wide selection of drinks. They serve brunch, partnered with delicious mimosas and their crowd favorite, Bloody Marys, every Sunday.

On Wednesdays, they offer half-price on select bottles of wine. They also have daily and happy hour specials on liquor and wine. To further sweeten the deal, D’Canters has live music, ranging from jazz to acoustic, almost every night!

Contact: 4238 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 452-1429

LOCALLY OWNED-AND-OPERATED FOR OVER 14 YEARS BEFORE

AFTER

361.887.0599 WWW.PINNACLERSI.COM 2501 S. PADRE ISLAND DR. CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78415 A+ BBB RATING

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FULLY INSURED

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WIND-STORM CERTIFIED

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www.starbraces.com 361.992.2483

OPEN SATURDAYS! • Adult & Children’s Dental Braces

• FREE Initial Consultation Roxanne Robertson, DDS, MS

• Insurance Accepted & Filed for You • Affordable Payment Options - 0% Financing Available • Convenient Appointment Times:

We are located in Star Plaza 4750 S. Padre Island Dr. Suite 101 Corpus Christi, Texas 78411

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Where state-of-the-art equipment and friendly service meet to provide a world class experience.

“ We won’t let you down ” TOWN & COUNTRY SHOPPING CENTER 4200 S. ALAMEDA ST. SUITE D CORPUS CHRISTI, TX

DRY CLEANING 108 The Bend

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LAUNDRY

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ALTERATIONS

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FORMAL WEAR

CUISINE / DINING GUIDE FINS GRILL AND ICEHOUSE $$ For the past 11 years, they’ve featured fresh seafood, 1/2 lb Angus beef burgers & chicken.

Full bar and you “You Hook ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” for the fisherman.

420 West Cotter, (361) 749-8646, Finsgrillandicehouse.com

STINGRAY’S TAPHOUSE AND GRILL $$ An industrial-chic elite sports bar that provides you ‘raving fans’ a unique dining and entertaining experience, right around the corner from the beach! 401 Beach St, (361)749-2287, Stingraystaphouse.com

THE BREWERY $$ Brick oven pizza, pub food & burgers sound good? How about a fresh brewed-in-house beer? 429 Alister St, (361) 749- 2739, Portaransasbrewery.com

CAFÉ BONNA-PETIT $

Chef Sophie will always make you feel warmly welcomed, just as her gourmet dishes do. And don’t forget to grab a to-go dinner! 4301 S Alameda St, (361) 334-2579, Bonna-petit.com

DAILY GRIND $ A coffee bar with personality, they offer the finest in gourmet, rustic, or straight-up coffee favorites. Hungry? Stick around for their daily quiche specials, scones, and sandwiches. 302 S Austin St, (361) 790-8745, Rockportdailygrind.com

FILLINGOOD BAKERY $ With fresh baked goods made in house, they make breakfast and lunch a delight!

3819 S Alameda St., (361) 225-4663, fillingoodbakery.com

HESTER’S CAFÉ AND COFFEE BAR $ Looking for a true family experience where love is the number one ingredient, along with the simple but important concept of quality and the healing powers of good food.

1902 N. Shoreline Blvd, (361) 885-0151, 1714 S Alameda St, (361) 885-0558, 3812 S Alameda St, (361) 855-1892, Hesterscafe.com

HULA PEACH FRUIT HUB & CAFE $ This locally owned tropical themed café, sources the finest produce and is committed to quality and freshness. 3823 S Staples, (361) 334-3773, Facebook.com/hulapeach

JB’S GERMAN BAKERY $ Committed to maintaining the highest German standard, every product is handmade following age-old German traditions and recipes. There are no short-cuts at JB’s. 15137 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-5474, Jbsgermanbakery.com

SUGARBAKERS $ Great cuisine with a French and European influence. They use locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible with mostly everything

made from scratch.

2766 Santa Fe St, (361) 884-9541, Sugarbakerscc.com

FRENCH BLEU BISTRO $$$ True playful twists to classic French bistro dishes. The chef’s commitment to the use of fresh, local, peak-of-the-season products is evident in the quality of each dish. 500 N Water St, (361) 887-2121, Bleubistrocc.com

DRAGONFLY $$$ A fine multitude of international backgrounds to the cuisine prepared entirely from scratch daily by the owner and culinary artist. The menu is full of unforgettable flavor profiles to satisfy any craving.

14701 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-2224, Facebook.com/dragonfly-restaurant

ITALIAN AUTHENTIC NEW YORK PIZZA $$ True, authentic New York Pizza right in your hands in Corpus Christi, complete with red-checkered tablecloths. 5838 S Staples St, (361) 986-1151, Eatmorepizza.com

BELLA LUNA DOWNTOWN $$ Authentic gourmet Italian cuisine always made fresh to order in the heart of The Marina Arts District. 429 Schatzell St, (361) 887-4777, Bellalunadowntown.com

BELLINO’S $$ Comfortable and welcoming with a trattoria style authentic cuisine. You won’t find these dishes anywhere else in Corpus Christi! 3815 S Alameda St, (361) 814-8998, 523 S. Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-9003, Bellinostexas.com

PADRE PIZZERIA $ For over 15 years, their famous Padre pizza dough is handmade, hand-tossed and prepared daily. 14493 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0787, Padrepizzeria.com

PORT “A” PIZZERIA $$ Bring the kids, as this family-friendly pizzeria offers an all-day buffet, video games and draft beer. Or, order straight off the menu! 407 E Avenue G, (361) 749-5226, Portapizzeria.com

TRATTORIA TADDEI $$ The chef’s recipes and experience, all with a genuine Italian flavor, come down from his home region’s authentic traditional cuisine personally passed from generation to generation over many centuries.

920 Louisiana Ave, (361) 884-4400, Trattoriataddei.com

VENETIAN HOT PLATE $$$ Quality cuisine and a quaint, yet energetic atmosphere, giving a real touch of Italy.

232 Beach St, (361) 749-7617, Venetianhotplate.com

MEDITERRANEAN GINGER CAFÉ AND GRILL $$ Eastern hospitality and authentic Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, there’s so much to love about these Persian, Turkish, Lebanese, and Indo-Pakistani specialties. 7009 S Staples #103, (361) 946-9834, Gingercafecc.com

PERUVIAN COSTA SUR WOK & CEVICHE BAR $$ This cevicheria is a true Peruvian party on your palette. The dishes are fresh takes on traditional originals from Peru. 15113 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 945-8303, Costasurcc.com

BROOKLYN PIE CO. $ Enjoy a slice or indulge a whole “pie” of their delicious secret pizza tradition. 15326 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-1100, Brooklynpie.com

SEAFOOD

HOUSE OF ROCK $

Sit indoors, sit outdoors, see the Gulf Coast from any seat in the house while diving into top-quality coastal cuisine, live music and the best views around. 258 Snapdragon, (361) 749-4653, Blackmarlinbarandgrill.com

Great pizza and appetizers, cold beer, and live entertainment! Does it get any better?

511 Starr St, (361) 882-7625, Texashouseofrock.ticketfly.com

MAMMA MIA’S $$$ Warm and cozy mom and pop Italian experience will make you feel like family. Entrées are delicious Italian culture on a plate. 128 N Mesquite St, (361) 883-3773, Facebook.com/ mamma-mias

MESQUITE ST. PIZZA AND PASTA CO. $$ Their 60-year-old pizza oven brought in straight from Brooklyn New York makes for the perfect pizza. Plus, all the crusts and sauces are made in house.

617 Mesquite St, (361) 882-7499, Eatpizzadowntown.com

BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL $$$

DOC’S SEAFOOD AND STEAKS $$ Lively and enjoyable selection for surf ‘n’turf in an open-air setting overlooking the water, plus live music. 13309 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6744, Docseafoodandsteaks.com

GLOW $$ From a renovated boathouse, they offer simply-cooked bistro fare using the best local seafood and produce. Bright, relaxed atmosphere with white-washed ship lap wood walls and a full bar. 1815 Broadway St, (361) 727-2644, Glowrockport.com

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CUISINE / THE DISH

So Smoth Rock and Rollin also serves mouthwatering smoothies, fruit teas, and bubble teas in fun and delicious flavors!

That Sweet Rock N Roll The newest dessert trend finally makes its way to the Coastal Bend, and it’s every bit as good as they say

C

By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Benavides

haroen Kaewmanorom was first introduced to rolled ice cream five years ago while visiting her hometown of Bangkok. That experience planted the idea of bringing the frozen treat to Corpus Christi in Kaewmanorom’s head, but she and her husband decided to wait because they weren’t sure the concept would appeal to the local community. While working in Houston last year, she encountered rolled ice cream again in Chinatown. She took it as a sign to finally bring the unique dessert to the Coastal Bend. Rock and Rollin officially opened its doors in January.

Despite rare, near freezing temperatures, a large enthusiastic crowd welcomed them.

Kaewmanorom is not a fan of rolled ice cream that is artificially flavored with powder. She has modified her recipe and only uses fresh ingredients, resulting in an even more refreshing and delicious version of the popular frozen treat.

The process of making this sweet delight is unique. The base is a liquid that comes in Rock and Rollin’s main ice cream flavors. It is poured into a machine with an ice-cold metal surface. Once the ice cream freezes into a creamy texture, the mixins, which you select upon ordering, are chopped and blended into the base. The

110 The Bend

concoction is then spread out thinly across the freezing surface and scraped into columns, creating the rolls of ice cream that are served vertically inside a cup.

The texture and flavor of rolled ice cream is unlike regular scooped ice cream because it’s served as soon as it freezes. Although rolled ice cream is harder and chewier, its flavors are fresher. Rock and Rollin is known for bold flavors that pop.

Rock and Rollin offers different ways to order your rolled ice cream. They have nine pre-made selections that come with a certain ice cream flavor and mix-ins.

Monkey Business (sweet cream flavored ice cream with banana and Nutella mixins) and Cookie Monster (a chocolate base mixed with Oreos and Pockey) are their best-sellers, so far. The preset options include two toppings and a drizzle of your choice. The wide variety of toppings ranges from fresh fruits to popping boba. There are four drizzles to choose from: strawberry, chocolate, condensed milk, and caramel. You can also choose your own ice cream flavor, mix-ins, toppings, and drizzle to create a one-of-a-kind frozen treat. It’s like a “make your own personal heaven” bar!

Contact: 2033 Airline Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 444-5275

Are you experiencing any of the symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance?

F.A.C.O.G.

F.A.C.O.G.

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Circle of Red is locally sponsored by

Go Red For Women’s Circle of Red is a powerful, passionate group of people dedicated to making an impact in our community’s fight against heart disease and stroke.

To become a member, contact Marcy Rodriguez at marcy.rodriguez@heart.org or call 361-445-3191.

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CUISINE / DINING GUIDE HARRISON’S LANDING $$ Tavern on the Bay at Harrison’s Landing is Corpus Christi’s newest outdoor restaurant and bar located in the heart of the city’s marina, and is the only place in town with a floating bar! 108 Peoples St, (361) 881-8503, Harrisonslanding.net

ISLAND TIME SUSHI BAR & SEAFOOD GRILL $$ Stop in for fresh and inventive sushi, seafood, appetizers and desserts! Check out the weekday specials!

14225 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-3046, Facebook.com/islandtimesushi

LAGUNA REEF $$ Bring in your own catch straight from your boat, or order off their tasteful menu! With excellent views of the marina, family owners & operators, Laguna Reef is the place to be. 4242 Laguna Shores Rd, (361) 937-2600, Bluffslanding.com/restaurant.php

LANCE'S BLACK SHEEP BISTRO $$ A unique, trendy atmosphere that transcends age and style with a menu full of foods rich, colorful, and full of flavor. 15201 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-4819, Blacksheepbistro.net

LATITUDE 28˚02’ $$$ Contemporary dining experience specializing in tasty fresh, local seafood. Eye-catching walls that serve as a gallery space, holding colorful works by local artists.

105 N Austin St, (361) 727-9009, Latituderockport.com

LIBERTY HALL $$ Herbs and vegetables grown on site, your dining experience will be unforgettable!

106 E. Cotter, (361) 749-4888 facebook.com/LibertyHallPortA

LISABELLA’S BISTRO $$$ Casual coastal elegance with a family-friendly setting. The menu boasts a remarkable gourmet twist to your favorite fare, and a full bar that goes beyond just ordinary. The mermaids may even share their secrets.

5009 Hwy 361, (361) 749-4222, Cinnamonshore.com

ROCK & ROLLS SUSHI LOUNGE $$ At Rock & Rolls, they’re dishing out the most delectable and delicate fish from islands all over the world. Delight in a “sound check” or cold appetizer, an “opening act” or hot appetizer, then “plug in” for some rolls and sashimi!

15121 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 949-1110, Rockandrollssushi.com

ROOSEVELT’S AT THE TARPON INN $$$ Gourmet dining at its finest in a beautiful Louisiana style home that sets the perfect tone for a taste of luxury. Historic background gives a unique sense of its famous visitors.

200 E Cotter Ave, (361)749-1540,

Rooseveltsatthetarponinn.com

Waterstreetmarketcc.com

SALTWATER GRILL $$

Savory seafood dishes with great bay view seating. Family owned gives off a special ambiance in the atmosphere as well as the entrees.

4310 Ocean Dr, (361) 855-8157

Unique family atmosphere with fresh and tasty seafood that will leave you coming back for more. 2401 Cimarron Blvd, (361) 993-7258, Saltwatergrillcc.com

SCUTTLEBUTT’S BAR & GRILL $$ Extensive menu makes sure to have something for everyone. Foods made from scratch from the dressings to the burger patties. 14254 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6769, Scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com

SEAFOOD & SPAGHETTI WORKS $$ A unique dining experience, you’ll find the very best in seafood, steak, Italian dishes, pizza, soups, and desserts all made from scratch. 901 S Alister St, (361) 749-5666, seafoodandspaghettiworks.com

SHELLS $$ Warm, inviting neighborhood restaurant offers a creative and far-ranging menu that reflects a variety of world cuisines. Shakes off the old and tired and gets down to real good food. 522 E Avenue G, (361) 749-7621, Eatatshells.com

SHEMPY’S GRILL $$ Laid-back setting with a variety of delightfully cooked fish will turn anyone into a seafood lover. 3913 Highway 35 S, (361) 727-0019, Facebook.com/Shempys

SNOOPY’S PIER $$ Outdoor dining experience and local harvested quality with an on-site fish house and shrimp breading facility that enables the freshness.

13313 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-8815, Snoopyspier.com

YARDARM $$$

STEAKHOUSE KATZ 21 $$$ Sets the standard for premier fine dining experience. Prime steakhouse specializes in dryaged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood.

5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, Katz21.com

NIKO’S STEAKHOUSE $$ Committed to the motto “Great food, Great times, Great experience.” Casual and elegant atmosphere that will exceed any steak lover’s expectations.

5409 Saratoga Blvd, (361) 992-2333, Nikossteakhouse.com

REPUBLIC OF TEXAS $$$$ One of the top dining destinations. A multi-level steakhouse offers diners beautiful panoramic views of the CC Bay. All the ingredients for the perfect experience! 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 887-1600, Omnihotels.com

THAI THAI COTTAGE $$ Unique and refreshing, Thai curries meet teriyaki and Chinese dishes in a cozy red cottage.

5830 McArdle Rd, (361) 993-0777, Thai-cottage.com

THE BOILING POT $$ Roll up your sleeves and take manners to a new level for a great Cajun experience.

201 S Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-6972

THE PHEONIX $$ This international bistro/nouveau American fine-quality cuisine is prepared daily using many ingredients from the Corpus Christi Farmers' Market creating a constantly eclectic seasonal menu, where guests can choose to sit indoor and outdoor. 337 N Alister St, (361) 749-9277, Facebook/The-PhoenixRestaurant-and-Bar

TROUT STREET BAR & GRILL $$$ Cajun-inspired seafood in an airy environment is a wondrous way to enjoy food and cocktails inside the nautical themed restaurant or on the outdoor deck offering marina views. 104 West Cotter, (361) 749-7800, Tsbag.com

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR $$ BKK is brining a modern twist to the traditional Thai dishes. Their menu is filled with tasty items you are sure to love. 3850 S Alameda, Ste. 27, (361) 334-0857, bkkthaikitchenbar.com

VIETNAMESE VIETNAM RESTAURANT $$$ Local fine dining with an extensive menu and eye catching Vietnamese culture spread throughout the dining area. 701 N Water St, (361) 853-2682, Vietnam-restaurant.com

WATER STREET OYSTER BAR $$ Long-standing, well-known Corpus Christi landmark operation serving oysters, sushi rolls & Gulf seafood in a historic, brick-walled space.

309 N Water St, (361) 881-9448,

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THE BEND / LOOKING BACK

People walk and fish atop the breakwater in February 1939

Breakwater Has Many Benefits The breakwater over the bay is not only a protector but also provides enjoyment for visitors Photo Credit: Public domain; Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, FSA/OWI Collection, LC-USF33-012018-M4

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By: Jillian Becquet

ou can’t research tourism in Corpus Christi without running across decades of beautiful photographs depicting locals and tourists enjoying the Corpus Christi Bay. People strolling, fishing, or merely exploring the breakwater comprise one of the most recurrent historical scenes.

This large rock structure, topped with a paved surface, provides its visitors with an unencumbered view of the bay and the city. It offers us a safe way to venture onto the bay without the need for a swim or a boat and allows us to view nature’s creatures in the calm waters. Postcards of the beloved breakwater have been produced so visitors could document and share their visit.

114 The Bend

While Corpus Christi has done much to enrich its tourism draw throughout the years, the attraction of the breakwater has been a pleasant benefit. It serves its greater purpose by protecting the city from storms and enabling the Port of Corpus Christi to thrive.

As the city recovered from the 1919 hurricane and made plans to secure funding for the Port, the necessity of creating a calm harbor became obvious. After decades of political efforts, both a seawall (1940) and a breakwater (1926) now protect the city and its port, as well as provide residents and visitors with bay front enjoyment.

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