the coastal bend is fortunate to have so many entrepreneurs and business professionals whose talent, expertise and creativity have a positive impact on our communities and make this region an excellent place to live. The Bend magazine invites you to meet some of the faces behind our most prominent local businesses. they are leaders in their field; they are game-changers; they are the faces of the coastal bend.
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of COMMERCIAL LENDING
Kleberg Bank
Kleberg Bank is an independent community bank. Since its beginning, Kleberg Bank has been built on a foundation of integrity, dedication to the community and excellence in convenience, service and value. Robert Justus Kleberg, son-in-law of Captain and Mrs. Richard King, and manager of the King Ranch, established the bank in 1905 “to help those who showed the spirit of cooperation in community building,” a commitment that continues to withstand the test of time. Home to the next generation of homegrown bankers, Kleberg Bank leverages exceptional technology to help your business grow. Kleberg Bank’s deep roots provide its bankers with a unique understanding and dedication to the people and culture of South Texas. Kleberg Bank always puts people first, nurturing a collaborative approach to managing the evolving financial needs of your business for a banking experience that never grows old. Member FDIC.
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Auto Repair
TC Auto Service & Romay's Auto Service
Since 1967, TC Auto Service has proudly served the Coastal Bend as a local, family-owned business. Just a few years later, Romay’s Auto Service joined the family— further extending our commitment to honest, reliable car care across the community.
For decades, both locations have shared one mission: to provide every customer with the highest level of service possible, every time.
Our success is a blessing we attribute first and foremost to God, and to the generations of loyal families who have supported us throughout the years. We’re honored to have become a trusted name in car care, thanks to the unwavering loyalty of our customers.
At both TC Auto Service and Romay’s Auto Service, we believe in educating our customers about their vehicle needs. When you understand what your car requires and
why, you’re empowered to make the best decision for both your vehicle and your budget.
Our team of highly trained master technicians—bringing over 55 years of combined experience—treats every vehicle with the care and integrity it deserves. Our goal is to give you peace of mind from the moment you walk through our doors.
Thanks to the incredible support from our community, we’ve been voted Best Auto Repair Shop for over 25 years. We are deeply grateful for the continued trust you’ve placed in us.
From our family to yours, thank you for choosing TC Auto Service and Romay’s Auto Service. It is our honor to serve you and represent the hardworking spirit of the Coastal Bend.
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Spine CARE
Orthopaedic Center of CC
Dr. Davin Cordell joined the Coastal Bend community eight years ago with his wife, Oriana, and daughter, Bella, one week before Hurricane Harvey arrived. He came to join the Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi as an orthopaedic spine surgeon. Cordell completed an advanced fellowship in adult and pediatric spine surgery at Washington University in St. Louis. Prior to becoming an orthopaedic surgeon, he was a physical therapist. This background gives him a broad approach to the diagnosis and management of spine-related problems. He uses endoscopic and minimally invasive techniques with focus on motion preservation as well as traditional open surgeries to achieve the most predictable and reliable results. Cordell believes in performing the least amount of surgery necessary to fix the problem.
He jokes with a mentor that he thinks about spines 90 percent of the time, but what he really enjoys is spending time with his family around the house and at favorite local spots.
“We have loved becoming a part of the Coastal Bend community and look forward to many more years to come,” he said. “We have found our home. Thank you for having us."
portrait by shoocha photography
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of SPOrts medicine
The Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi
The Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi has been a trusted name in orthopaedics and sports medicine in the Coastal Bend for over 30 years. The success of the practice has been made through the partnership of well-respected, like-minded physicians who all share a vision for providing the highest quality orthopaedic, medical and surgical care to the Coastal Bend and South Texas communities. The physicians at the Orthopaedic Center actively serve as the orthopaedic team physicians for Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Islanders, Texas A&M University-Kingsville Javelinas, the Corpus Christi Hooks and the Corpus Christi Ice Rays. In addition, they care
for young athletes from many local middle schools, high schools and select teams. These physicians believe that no matter what your sport or skill level, the goal remains the same: to get you back to the most elite playing level with focused care and minimally invasive surgical procedures. Their sports medicine team of orthopaedic surgeons who care for collegiate and professional athletes are the same doctors who take care of your athlete.
The Orthopaedic Center’s surgeons and clinical staff pride themselves on comprehensive, patient-centered care and the treatment of musculoskeletal and sports medicine injuries.
portrait by raymond gray
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of STEAKHOUSES
NIKO’S STEAKHOUSE
For 32 years, Niko Sissamis has exceeded steak and seafood lovers’ expectations. Niko’s Steakhouse offers an extensive and assorted menu in a casual, elegant atmosphere. Niko is a third-generation restaurant owner in the Coastal Bend and is passionate about offering great food. His family has been in the restaurant business for over 85 years from Diners in the 1930s to his present-day Award-Winning Steakhouses. Niko’s Steakhouse has won “Best of the Best Awards” for: Best Steakhouse, Best Steak, Best New Restaurant, Best All Around Restaurant, Fine Dining, Dining Experience, Best Diner, Romantic Restaurant, Business Lunch, Best Restaurant to Impress, Best Seafood, Fish Tacos, Chicken Fried Steak, Best Bar & Grill, Best Happy Hour, Best Margaritas, Beer Selection, Wine Selection. It has been featured numerous times in Texas Monthly and is proud to have won Local's List Poll for “Best Steak” five times in The Bend
361.992.2333 • nikossteakhouse.com • 5409 Saratoga BlvD. CORPUS CHRISTI
portrait by raymond gray
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face
of
LUXURY HOME REAL ESTATE
Zoe Gottlich
Zoe Gottlich has over $265 million in sales in her 20-year real estate career. She has been the number one top producer for the last 16 consecutive years at Coldwell Banker Pacesetter Steel Realtors®, and has been awarded the prestigious President's Elite award, which is the top 5% Coldwell Banker agents worldwide. She is a Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist and holds a bachelor’s degree in economics. Gottlich and her husband, Mark, are third generation Corpus Christians. Their daughter, Cecile, is the owner and principal designer of Studio Cecile based in Austin. Their son, Grier, and his wife, Paige, live in Corpus Christi. Grier is also a Realtor® with CBPS and owner of Noble Home Renovations.
Market knowledge, skilled negotiation, problem solving, creative marketing and listening to client needs, combined with a trustworthy, honest and enthusiastic attitude, are the key ingredients to her ongoing success. Zoe is passionate about her profession and whether it is a small home or million-dollar estate, she finds it extremely rewarding to help people realize their dream of buying or selling a home in the Coastal Bend.
portrait by raymond gray
The Face of ELDER LAW
Baker and Baker, attorneys at law
Protecting Your Legacy for Over 40 Years
As South Texas grows older and families seek clarity in uncertain times, Baker & Baker remains the Coastal Bend’s trusted authority in elder law and estate planning. For more than four decades, the Bakers have guided generations through life’s most important transitions, offering skilled counsel in wills, trusts, guardianships, probate, and Medicaid planning to help families protect what they’ve built.
Since joining the firm in 2020, Charles Baker has continued the family’s legacy, blending modern insight with the firm’s long-standing tradition of
care. Together, the Bakers provide personalized legal guidance with the depth, compassion, and integrity only a family-run practice can offer.
Rooted in integrity and service to others, Baker & Baker is dedicated to helping Coastal Bend families prepare wisely, preserve their assets, and achieve lasting peace of mind for the years ahead. 5350
portrait by shoocha photography
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of CONSTRUCTION & MORTGAGE
First Community Bank
If home building, business expansion, or property refinancing is on your horizon, First Community Bank can help make your vision a reality. For over 40 years, these professionals have guided thousands of Coastal Bend neighbors and businesses through every stage of mortgage, construction, and commercial lending. Whether you’re building a new home, developing investment property, or financing your next business project, FCB delivers trusted expertise and local decision-making that keeps progress moving. With approvals made right here at home, your project can be under contract or construction that much faster.
First Community Bank has been the neighbor you can count on. First Community Bank is an equal opportunity housing lender and a Member of FDIC. NMLS #458782
Back Row (left to right)
Nick Black NMLS# 689770
Matt Moore NMLS# 1693403
Joe Ingle NMLS# 745050
Karen Stipp NMLS# 489383
Dan Herrington NMLS# 562367
Matt Martini NMLS# 1695013
Bottom Row (left to right)
Amy Atkins NMLS# 745049
Rose Zapata NMLS# 1472230
Susan Geissel NMLS# 512560
Renee Carter NMLS# 745051
portrait by Jason page
The Face of PERSONALIZED WEALTH STRATEGIES
Edward Jones
For over 100 years, Edward Jones has worked to create a better future for our clients and their families and communities, one relationship at a time.
Our advice is based on a disciplined, established process that centers on our clients, who are individual investors, and the goals they're trying to achieve.
Each client benefits from a personalized relationship with their financial advisor, who is supported by the resources of a Fortune 500 firm.
Every aspect of the firm’s business – from the types of products and services we offer to the locations of our branch offices – is designed to cater to individual investors in the communities in which they live and work.
This business model has helped fuel remarkable growth for the firm and helped clients realize the possibilities for their futures.
Edward Jones employs 55,000 people, including more than 20,000 dedicated and passionate financial advisors to serve, educate and support more than 9 million clients in achieving what matters most to them.
We partner for positive impact to improve the lives of our clients and colleagues, and together, better our communities and society.
Member SPIC. The content of this article is sponsored by Edward Jones.
portrait by jason page
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Minimally Invasive Hip and Knee Replacement
Dr. Connor Armstrong
With a commitment to helping patients get back on their feet faster, Dr. Connor Armstrong brings both advanced skill and genuine compassion to every case. A fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in adult reconstruction, Dr. Armstrong focuses on minimally invasive hip and knee replacement—helping patients return to the activities they love with less pain and faster recovery.
His path to medicine is as impressive as his care for patients. After graduating cum laude in Chemical Engineering from Texas A&M University, Dr. Armstrong went on to earn his medical degree from the University of Texas Health San Antonio, where he ranked in the top quartile of his class. He continued his orthopaedic surgery residency at UT Health San Antonio before completing his fellowship training in adult reconstruction at Emory University School of Medicine. Patients trust his expertise and dedication to innovative approaches that focus on reducing recovery times, minimizing pain, and restoring mobility.
5917 crosstown expressway sh 286, corpus christi 361.854.0811 • Southtexasboneandjoint.com
The
Face of
ORTHOPEDICS: KNEE AND HIP REPLACEMENT
DR. JUSTIN Klimisch
Dr. Justin Klimisch earned his doctorate from The University of Texas Medical Branch School of Medicine (UTMB) and continued with his internship and residency in Orthopaedic Surgery at UTMB. He completed an accredited fellowship in Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement Surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Before becoming a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon, he served in the United States Army 82nd Airborne Division. As a consulting physician, Dr. Klimisch specializes in computer-navigated and robotic surgery, using state-ofthe-art technological advances, and trains other surgeons from around the nation in the latest evidence-based hip and knee surgery techniques. He is also an active member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons, Texas Medical Association and Nueces County Medical Society.
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of ARCHITECTURE
GIGNAC Architects
Gignac Architects has served Texas with architectural, interior, landscape design and construction management services since 1988, when it was established by Raymond Gignac, AIA. Gignac Architects is a full-service firm providing planning expertise in educational, institutional, municipal and private commercial work with an emphasis on quality design.
Today, led by Raymond and Nick Gignac, with 25 employees in three offices, the multigenerational firm is family-run and looking toward the future. The firm has designed many of the iconic buildings around the community, such as the American Bank Center and the new Mary Carroll High School. Altogether, Gignac Architects has completed 22 projects for CCISD and multiple projects for the City of Corpus Christi, the Regional Transportation Authority and the City of Portland. The firm is now excited and preparing to welcome its new Hamlin Middle School project to our community.
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of
FINE HOME FURNISHINGS
CHIC TO CHIC Furniture
Established in 2007, Chic to Chic New Home Furnishings is your local alternative to traditional furniture stores. The owners and staff have a passion for sophisticated, quality, on-trend furnishings at an affordable price, in an unpretentious atmosphere. Unearthing new trends means curating pieces from around the world that have a story to tell — pieces that provide a focal point, pull a room together and spark a conversation. At Chic to Chic, it’s about you and your family, your personality and your budget, which is why we offer in-stock and custom options across a variety of price points. While you can purchase right off the floor, the store also specializes in tailoring its extensive line to your needs. Customers will especially love the one-of-a-kind finds and wall art, exclusive throw pillows and carefully selected home accessories, lighting and rugs. Design consultations are also available from any of the designers on staff.
Managing Partner
Jimmy R. Rivera CLF, CLTC
senior Partner
Joseph “JP” Hernandez
Financial Services Professionals
Annie J. Castro, CLU, LUTCF, RICP, CLTC
Filemon “Phil” Esquivel, Jr.
Michele L. Guzman, RICP
Adriana Hipólito-Lamont, CLTC
Eddie Jackson, CLU, ChFC
Erica M. Maymi, RICP, CLTC
Brian Martinez, CLU
The Face of LIFE INSURANCE
NEW YORK LIFE INSURANCE
For over 180 years, New York Life Insurance has protected the future for generations of our clients and their loved ones. In 2024, New York Life was ranked the largest mutual life insurance company in the U.S.1, #78 on the prestigious Fortune 500 list, and has made over $32.56 million in charitable contributions on behalf of the New York Life Foundation to national and local nonprofit organizations. New York Life ranks #1 amongst all companies with qualifying agents of the Million Dollar Round Table, the Premier Association of Financial Professionals, a global recognition. Our South Texas
office has been serving our community since 1935. Many of our agents have local roots—some even go back generations. Reach out to one of our highly trained representatives locally that can help build and protect what’s most important to you, giving you peace of mind of a secure financial future.
1Based on revenue as reported by “Fortune 500 ranked within Industries, Insurance: Life, Health (Mutual),” Fortune magazine, 6/4/2024. For methodology, please see http://fortune.com/fortune500/.
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Wealth Management
AMERICAN BANK
American Bank has long been a trusted advisor in the Coastal Bend. Our Wealth Management team delivers customized solutions in investment, retirement, and estate planning, with a strong emphasis on preparation, communication, and exceeding client expectations.
Our services include: Trust and estate administration, Investment management, Oversight of real estate, oil & gas, and agricultural assets, No matter your needs, you can count on our team of experienced professionals to deliver personalized service and comprehensive wealth management solutions for where you want to go in life.
Discover the confidence that comes with a dedicated wealth management partner. Contact American Bank to begin the conversation.
Member FDIC
Wealth Services: Not a deposit | Not FDIC insured | No bank guarantee | May lose value
American Bank has a unique way of serving clients — and it all started when the doors first opened for business in 1970. Independent and locally owned, American Bank’s philosophy is simple: Build relationships with clients, exceed their expectations and provide appropriate products and services that make a difference. Their Private Banking Officers truly get to know clients in order to fully understand their business needs. American Bank has an entire team of financial professionals who provide tailored solutions for business banking, lending, wealth management and estate services throughout the Coastal Bend.
Member FDIC
Wealth Services: Not a deposit | Not FDIC insured | No bank guarantee | May lose value
John Norris, P.E. Senior Commercial Lending Officer & Petroleum Engineer
Michael Hoyt Commercial Lending and Private Banking Officer
2025
portrait by shoocha photography
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of
FLOORING
ALLISON FLOORING AMERICA
At Allison Flooring America, a cherished family-owned business in the heart of our community, owners, Terry and Sandi Allison, take pride in providing not only the highest quality flooring solutions but also a legacy of expert service that spans generations. Proudly serving the Corpus Christi community for over 50 years, Allison Flooring America is your trusted local flooring store to guide you through every step of your flooring journey—from selection to installation. As they continue their legacy with their daughter, Jordan, joining the team, Allison Flooring America is designed to withstand the test of time.
As a family-owned business, Terry and Sandi’s family values of integrity, commitment, and service transcend the values of the Allison Flooring America team by adding a personal touch to every project and ensuring you receive not only exceptional products but also outstanding customer service. With an extensive selection of carpets, hardwood, vinyl and tile flooring catering to all styles, and a knowledgeable staff with over 200 years of combined experience, Allison Flooring America is committed to helping you find the perfect flooring for your home.
Visit Allison Flooring America and experience the warmth of a family business accompanied by unparalleled expertise and service.
portrait by shoocha photography
The Face of pain management
corpus christi pain medicine
Dr. Gabriel Lopez attended and graduated from Texas A&M University, College Station as a pre-med student and then graduated from University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Medical School in 2000. He then completed his Anesthesia residency at Loma Linda Hospital in California in 2004 where he was Chief Resident. He then pursued a Pain Management Fellowship at The University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Lopez is Board Certified in Pain Management.
He started his own practice, Corpus Christi Pain Medicine, in 2006 with just two staff members, and now has 16 full-time employees and a nurse practitioner. With the motto “Making Lives Better,” Dr. Lopez goes above and beyond to treat each patient’s individual pain.
Dr. Lopez’s vision for improving and expanding patient care includes the addition of his second OR surgical center, Southside Specialty Surgical Center, which opened in December 2019 on Holly Road. He strives to make it a world-class Ambulatory Surgical Center that is the premier choice for patients and surgeons for outpatient surgical services.
portrait by Raymond gray
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of WOMEN’s HeAlth
ADVANCED WELLNESS & Rejuvenation
Dr. Eubank’s gynecology practice and wellness treatment options focus on all facets of women’s health, as they are interrelated. He has run a private practice in Corpus Christi since 1983, and for the past 22 years, has dedicated his practice to focusing on women after the childbearing years. Dr. Eubank addresses women’s needs, such as menopausal hormone management with bio-identical hormone pellet therapy, and vaginal rejuvenation with ThermiVa, O-Shot and Emsella. These are revolutionary in-office treatments that can improve the negative effects of hormonal changes, bladder function, vaginal moisture and tightening and improve sexual health.
Dr. Eubank and Advanced Wellness & Rejuvenation are proud to have offered a medically supervised weight loss program for over 12 years that has helped over 2,300 men and women meet their weight loss goals and improve their health. This comprehensive, structured and medically supervised weight-loss program includes one-on-one visits to support patients as they solidify healthy eating habits to achieve long-term weight management and improved health.
Dr. Eubank is committed to helping women by offering safe and effective wellness services and treatment options in an effort to maintain and improve their gynecological, physical, sexual and emotional health and confidence.
Offering comprehensive weight loss services, vitamin injections and hormone pellet therapy in both their Corpus Christi and Portland offices.
portrait by shoocha photography
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Pediatric Care Rani Pediatrics
In 2017, Dr. Sabeen Rani opened Rani Pediatrics. Every year since, it has been the top-rated pediatric clinic in Corpus Christi. Dr. Rani has also recently received the Corpus Christi Under 40 Award and was named a “Texas Rising Star” (as seen in Texas Monthly). Raised in Alice, Dr. Rani had always intended on making the Coastal Bend the focus of her future practice. After completing UT’s rigorous Plan II Honors program in three years, Dr. Rani graduated from UT Southwestern, one of the top medical schools in the country.
At the foundation of it all is a relentless commitment to excellence, cleanliness and technology as the foundation to a family-centered medical philosophy. Medicine is “art” as well as “science.” The zoo motif with life-sized animal statues outside and inside the practice has turned a trip to the doctor into a “trip to the zoo.” Rani Pediatrics is providing a pediatric experience the Coastal Bend deserves.
portrait by Raymond gray
The Face of Cosmetic Surgery
The Rose Cosmetic Surgery Center has become one of the top aesthetic surgery practices in the United States. Personalized care and creating beautiful, natural results are what boost both doctor and patient satisfaction. Dr. Rose has been named one of the Top 10 Plastic Surgeons in Texas by National Institute of Plastic Surgeons and the National Academy of Plastic Surgeons. Patients travel from all over the country to see Dr. Rose for their aesthetic surgery needs. He believes listening and understanding the patient’s goals is the cornerstone of any great result. Dr. Rose is an internationally recognized surgeon who has performed over 4,000 plastic and reconstructive surgeries and trained numerous surgeons around the world on three different continents. Corpus Christi is blessed to have Dr. Rose, his surgery center, and his philanthropic efforts.
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Home & Auto Insurance
Drew Becquet - State Farm agent
Since 1964, State Farm has been the number one home and auto insurance provider in America. At the Drew Becquet State Farm office, we pride ourselves on building meaningful, long-lasting relationships with our customers. As your family grows, we want to be there every step of the way to help you manage the risk of everyday life, recover from the unexpected and realize your dreams. We are passionate about our Corpus Christi community. Each catastrophic event is our opportunity to deliver on the promises we made to our policy holders to help them recover. We will continue to be the leader in insurance and financial services—and our customer’s needs will always determine our path. We’d love the opportunity to earn your business! agentdrewb.com • 361.854.4638
portrait by shoocha photography
The Face of Education
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
What sets Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi apart? For starters, we are the nation’s only university on its very own island — surrounded by the Gulf, powered by discovery, and fueled by opportunity. Here, students thrive under the guidance of awardwinning faculty, are supported by robust student services, and are connected to industry partners who open doors to careers in engineering, health care, finance, the arts, education, and beyond.
And while excellence defines us in the classroom, nothing ignites the Island spirit like Division I athletics. Since joining the Southland Conference, Islanders have claimed more than 60 championship titles, transforming every victory into a moment of pride that unites campus and community. Our Islanders Men’s and Women’s Basketball
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
teams, with multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, continue to shine on the national stage.
This season brings even more excitement! Toyelle Wilson takes the helm of Women’s Basketball, bringing with her 110 career wins and five postseason appearances. On the men’s side, Jim Shaw returns for his third year after back-to-back 20-win seasons in his first two years, with a program record 21 regular-season wins in his debut year.
At the Island University, winning goes far beyond the scoreboard — it’s about passion, pride, and community. Shakas Up!
6300 Ocean Dr. Corpus Christi tamucc.edu • 361.825.8687
portrait by shoocha photography
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
Beauty & the Bistro™ Catering has been serving the Coastal Bend area since 2001. It has built a reputation for stress-free events, and is easily identified by its themed events and cascading buffets. Beauty & The Bistro™ places a high priority on community service—its “Community Kitchen Sharing” program is designed to provide a licensed kitchen for startup and rising bakers and future restaurateurs that may have outgrown their home kitchens but are not yet ready to take on the huge financial commitment of a brick-and-mortar location. Their goal for this platform is to promote co-operative relationships, foster innovation and elevate the next generation of food entrepreneurs.
portrait by shoocha photography
The Face of PRESSURE WASHING
Nash PRESSURE WASHING
Since 2003, Nash Pressure Washing has served as a mobile cleaning contractor specializing in cleaning exterior houses, apartments, restaurants, commercial buildings and vehicle fleets. It has designated crews for both exterior and interior windows, and parking lot striping for new or existing parking lots.
“Every job we do always comes with its own set of challenges and obstacles,” said owner Robby Nash. “We are always prepared and excited to meet our clients’ needs, no matter how intricate or large the scope of the job is.”
Nash Pressure Washing supports local foundations, charities and groups such as the C.C. Police Foundation, Charity League, Agape Ranch and Ronald McDonald House, just to name a few.
“I don’t have any interest in being the jack of all trades, but I do want to keep expanding our knowledge and expertise in this industry to be the best option when looking for a pressure washer or window cleaner in our community,” Nash said.
5601 S. Padre Island Dr., Corpus Christi • 361.510.3570 nashpressurewashing.net
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
portrait by shoocha photography
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Residential Construction
Innovo ReSIDENTIAL
Since 2006, Innovo Residential has been at the forefront of renovating and crafting custom homes in the Corpus Christi area. Under the leadership of owner Kurt Tugman, a seasoned builder with over 25 years of experience, the company has established itself as a trusted name in the local community. The name "Innovo" reflects the company's philosophy, derived from the Latin word meaning "to create and renew." Innovo Residential guides clients through every stage of the project, from initial concept to final walkthrough, ensuring that each homeowner is delighted with the outcome. At the heart of Innovo’s success are six core principles: Service, Design, Commitment, Quality, Craftsmanship, and Flexibility. Following these principles has provided Innovo the opportunity to work with many clients to build and remodel their dream homes in Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, and on North Padre Island. In an ever-evolving coastal environment, compliance with building regulations is crucial. Tugman’s extensive knowledge of construction codes, construction materials, floodplain management, dune permitting, and coastal construction techniques ensures that every project is not only thoughtfully designed but also resilient against the elements, built to withstand the test of time. They maintain an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and are the only local 10-time winner of the prestigious Angie’s List Super Service Award—a testament to their commitment to customer satisfaction and exceptional craftsmanship.
The Face of event rentals
Butler Signature Events
Butler Signature Events has proudly served the Coastal Bend since 1984. As a family-owned and operated business, it provides event rental services with a commitment to excellence.
The mission to deliver outstanding service is made possible by dedicated employees with 20-plus years of experience such as Joey Reyna, Tent Specialist, Jose and Vicky Rodriguez, Showroom/Warehouse Associates, and the leadership/management skills of Isabel Rivera-Trevino. With a wide selection of tents in various styles and sizes, it can accommodate everything from intimate birthday parties
The Coastal Bend 2025
and weddings to large corporate events and fundraising galas. It also offers tent rentals for construction and refinery clients.
Butler Signature Events provides an extensive range of accessories, including dance floors, staging, catering equipment, tables, linens, chairs, and decorative elements. Services also feature computer-assisted drawings (CAD) to help customize your event’s layout and design.
Focused on listening to clients and meticulously attending to every detail, Butler is committed to delivering a “Signature Event” experience for every occasion, regardless of its size.
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Business Technology
Straight Edge Technology
For more than 19 years, Straight Edge Technology has provided IT support to companies in the South Texas area. Straight Edge recognizes the challenges many companies face with cybersecurity, operations, and IT delivery, which affect predictable growth. Straightforward IT and cybersecurity solutions can give your business the competitive edge you need. Straight Edge specializes in IT services for legal, CPA firms, healthcare offices, oil and gas companies, construction businesses, and nonprofits.
Straight Edge’s owner, Douglass Miller, was born and raised in Corpus. He received a BS in Computer Science from Texas A&M–Corpus Christi before founding Straight Edge Technology, Inc. in 2006. He and his wife, Kristina, stay busy with their four children.
Doug believes IT support should be strategic, with a technology roadmap suited for unique needs and goals. Straight Edge focuses on proactive IT support that is built around relationships that last.
The Face of
kent nielsen & chelsea nielsen-McNeley
Since 1989, Kent has led Pest Patrol with a clear mission: protect the Coastal Bend community with honesty, reliability, and unmatched expertise. Today, alongside his daughter Chelsea, that mission has grown into a family legacy—one built not just on years of experience, but on trust, innovation, and a deep commitment to those they serve. As a locally owned and operated company, Pest Patrol is more than just a business—it’s a team of dedicated professionals who are out in the field every day, solving problems, protecting homes, and answering calls with care and confidence.
Chelsea and Kent are proud to lead this exceptional group, knowing that their success comes from the hard work, heart, and knowledge their team brings to every customer interaction. Whether it’s a residential home or a commercial property, Pest Patrol is there with solutions that work—and a sense of humor, too. After all, their motto says it best: “Buenas Noches, Cockroaches.” With a loyal customer base and a reputation built over three decades, Pest Patrol continues to set the standard for pest management in the Coastal Bend—family-led, teamdriven, and always focused on making your space safer, healthier, and pest-free.
CORPUS CHRISTI, TX • 361.852.4002 • Pestpatrolcc.com
The Face of Closet & Garage Organization Solutions
the
tailored closet
Husband and wife team, Richard and Trina Allen, relocated from San Antonio in August 2022, and opened The Tailored Closet & PremierGarage of Greater Corpus Christi to serve the Coastal Bend and surrounding areas.
They are a veteran and locally owned whole-home organization provider, with a goal to provide exceptional customer service in every project. They design and install custom solutions to include but not limited to closets, pantries, home offices, laundry rooms,
entertainment centers and Murphy beds. In the garage, they design and install custom cabinets, work benches, vertical wall storage systems, overhead racks, epoxy flooring and commercial grade polypropylene floor tiles. They believe that no space is too small or large to transform and bring beauty and function to a home!
They are proud to be part of the community and look forward to many years of giving back right here at home.
Let them help you “Calm the Chaos.”
The Face of ROOFING
BAYFRONT ROOFING
“The way we do anything is the way we do everything.”
That simple quote by Martha Beck has guided Scott Ricks, owner of Bayfront Roofing and Construction, for years. It shapes nearly every part of his life—from how he cooks dinner to how he leads his team. Scott’s daily mission is simple: perform better today than yesterday.
At Bayfront, the customer experience isn’t a slogan—it’s a system. The team talks about process improvement more than any other topic. They know perfection can’t be reached, but they pursue it relentlessly. Because home improvement projects can be stressful, Bayfront focuses on one word: communication.
From the moment a customer signs on, they’re connected. Weekly updates—via call or text, depending on preference—keep clients informed every step of the way. And whenever a customer calls, a real person answers. It’s not just about roofing; it’s about reassurance.
For Scott, that same philosophy extends beyond the job site. Family is at the heart of everything Bayfront does. The company’s foundation is built on the same values Scott and his wife, Belen, work to pass down to their sons—integrity, follow-through, and pride in a day’s work. These lessons aren’t just talked about at home; they’re lived out in every project Bayfront takes on.
Every nail, every call, every decision reflects the same principle: if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right. Because you shouldn’t have to worry about your roof—and Scott wouldn’t want his family, or yours, to settle for anything less.
2257 A-1 Hill Rd. Aransas Pass 361.800.5991 • Bayfrontroofing.com
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
portrait by shoocha photography
FACES of The Coastal Bend 2025
The Face of Business Insurance
Acrisure
For 100 years, Carlisle Insurance has built a legacy of trust, reliability, and success. We have reached countless milestones, nurtured lasting relationships, and established a reputation for excellence in the industry. This rich heritage is the foundation upon which we will continue to build and grow.
In today's dynamic market environment, we recognize the need to evolve and adapt to continue delivering exceptional value. Acrisure represents the next chapter in our company's story—a name that embodies our commitment to innovation, agility, and forward-thinking solutions in the insurance and fintech sectors. Acrisure is committed to continuing the personalized local service you have come to know, now with powerful global resources.
We are excited to begin our second century by honoring our history and trusted company culture, while continuing to modernize to meet the needs of a dynamic market. The business of managing risk is getting more complex, and Acrisure is meeting this complexity head-on, with creativity and agility.