November 2015

WHAT HANNAH OVERTON WANTS YOU TO KNOW ABOUT HER TIME SPENT IN PRISON

2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

Deep in the Heart of South Texas

WINGS OF GOLD An Aviator’s Dream

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Clothing & Accessories from Babies to Ladies 4234 S. Alameda St. | Town & Country Shopping Center 361.992.9690 | facebook.com/KishMishBoutique

Southern Charm

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

MARKETING DESIGN: Ensemble Group

ART DIRECTOR: Julio Studios

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Durrent

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick

PHOTOGRAPHY: Eric Morales Jason Page Renée C. Gage Emily Willis

MANAGING EDITOR: Whitney Noble

DISTRIBUTION: Kevin Kusenberger

OPERATIONS MANAGER: Stefanie DeWaters

SUBMISSIONS: jordan@thebendmag.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Candace Reichert Nancy Roberts

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

CULINARY EDITORS: Justin & Kayla Butts

THE BEND OFFICE: 309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401

CONTRIBUTORS: Madeline Schmidt Sharla Wilkins Jeff King Adam Farrell Sue Jackson Bob Copes

Phone: 361.792.3606 THEBENDMAG.COM

Copyright © 2015 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.

Vintage Collection 5017 Saratoga Suite #105 Corpus Christi. TX 78413 (361)993-3323 www.SouthernCharmCC.com

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2015

DEPARTMENTS AROUND THE BEND

13

New Neighbor’s League of CC Event Calendar Q&A with Beatriz Hanson Social Hour Holiday Gift Guide

FEATURES DEEP IN THE HEART OF SOUTH TEXAS

35

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

33

WINGS OF GOLD

48

Corpus Christi Live!

HOME & GARDEN

95

FACES OF THE COASTAL BEND

58

Open House - Beach Community

LIVE WELL

101

THE HANNAH OVERTON STORY

Alzheimer’s Awareness Holiday Nutrition Survival Guide

CUISINE

109

Farm to Table The Dish - Eleanor’s Coffee Bar & Market

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PUBLISHER’S NOTE

“All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”

-Walt Disney

WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE

aking care of your insurance needs

e Insurance sabilityTaking Incomecare Insurance of your ng-Terminsurance Care Insurance needs Taking care of your insurance needs

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■ LifeIncome InsuranceInsurance Disability ■ Disability Income Insurance ■ Long-Term Care Insurance Amanda Smith ■ Long-Term Care Insurance 361-739-0116 Call me today fortoday more Call me for information: more information: amanda.smith@mutualofomaha.com

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Amanda Smith Amanda Smith 361-739-0116

361-739-0116 amanda.smith@mutualofomaha.com amanda.smith@mutualofomaha.com

Insurance products and services underwritten by: Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company or one of its affiliates, Omaha, NE 68175. This is a solicitation of insurance. By responding, you are requesting to have a licensed agent (in WA, producer) contact you to provide additional information.

Insurance products and services underwritten by: Mutual of AFN41199_0912 Omaha Insurance Company or one of its affiliates, Omaha, NE e products andThisservices underwritten Mutual 68175. is a solicitation of insurance. Byby: responding, youof are requesting to have aone licensed agent (in WA, producer) contact NE nsuranceyou Company or of its affiliates, Omaha, to provide additional information.

A couple of years ago, when my wife was about seven months pregnant, we sat down in church next to another young couple in the same boat.

They were a military family stationed here for pilot training. We all became close friends as we entered the world of parenthood together.

Around the time we started The Bend, he finally received his wings.

It was incredible to see the look of excitement on both their faces approaching our friend’s winging ceremony. For them, it was the realization of a dream. For my wife and I, it was the start of chasing one.

As I flip through an early draft of this month’s issue, there is a consistent theme jumping off of nearly every page: the pursuit of a dream.

It is most prevalent on page 48, in a story titled “Wings of Gold.” It chronicles the journeys of student pilots to the point of finally fulfilling their lifelong ambition of getting their wings at the Naval Air Station Corpus Christi’s Catalina Club. Getting your wings is the culmination of an enduring dream for every military pilot who makes his or her way to Corpus Christi. Every time I meet a local pilot, they mention that the day they received their wings is one of the top five moments in their life.

It blew me away the first time I herd that. However, after realizing how difficult it is to even get selected for the program, it is easy to understand the feeling of accomplishment that comes at the end of the arduous journey. This very moment takes place for a new group of military pilots right here in Corpus Christi each month. It’s incredible to know that so many dreams are finally realized right where we live. It’s great to see the local community show their support. Our military veterans often attend, and the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce purchases each pilot’s wings.

One of the things I love most about my job is the opportunity to meet so many new people and listen to their stories. I constantly meet new people starting restaurants, coffee shops, nonprofits, gyms and boutiques, to name a few. The Coastal Bend is a place where dreams come true. Maybe it’s starting a business, or buying a ranch, or even your dream home or boat. All it takes is some courage, a plan, and a lot of hard work. It’s never too late to start and it will all be worth it in the end. Keep dreaming!

- Jordan Regas Jordan@thebendmag.com

his is a solicitation of insurance. By responding, you are AFN41199_0912 g to have a licensed agent (in WA, producer) contact ovide additional information.

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Proven Agents, Proven results

13 homes on Key Allegro have sold/closed from Jan - July 2015. Of these, 26 “sides” (selling or buying), Key Allegro Coastal Luce Properties represented more buyers and sellers THAN ALL OTHER REAL ESTATE OFFICES IN ROCKPORT COMBINED! Talk to the agents that get results, not by accident, but by hard work, loyalty, determination and a strong work ethic.

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AROUND THE BEND

NEW

CALENDAR 18 - Q&A 22 - SOCIAL HOUR 24 - HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE 30

NEIGHBORS LEAGUE OF CORPUS CHRISTI New to the area?

You’re not alone. And the New Neighbors League Club of Corpus Christi wants to make sure you know it!

WORDS: Whitney Noble PHOTOS: Rachel Durrent

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“The league isn’t only for newcomers – whether you’ve lived in the area for 3 days or 3 decades, you’re welcome to join!”

The Coastal Bend has proven to be quite the mixing pot of individuals and families. But no matter your place of origin, nearly all can agree that “Fun and Friendship” are important anywhere you go.

R

obert Frost once said “Good fences make good neighbors.” Well at the New Neighbors League Club (NNLC) of Corpus Christi, the fences are coming down, and have been since 1956. 2016 marks the 60th anniversary for the NNLC, which strives to provide a friendly and welcoming setting where ladies can get acquainted with the community and meet others. However, they’ve since ditched the formal gloves and hats for ladies nights and clubs to meet all interests! The NNLC believes in an association that brings together new neighbors of the city as they’re likely to have two things in common: 1. Want to make new friends, 2. Are adjusting to new surroundings. The Club is a Fun and Friendship nonprofit social organization with a variety of interest groups and special activities, including monthly luncheons and programs.

MOTTO:

The NNLC has 12 affiliate chapters throughout the United States. Founded in Dayton, Ohio in 1939 by Theodore R. Briggs, a former newspaperman, and his wife, Bunny, the league took off. As they found they were always greeting new residents, they envisioned the need for a social organization that brought newcomers together. Bunny drafted the Constitution and ByLaws, and the rest is New Neighbors history!

There are currently 130 members at the Corpus Christi chapter, ranging between 30-80 in age!

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FLOWER: Rose

COLORS: Pale Blue and White

Each month, the chapter hosts a welcome coffee, a luncheon, and many special interest groups or clubs. Each year, there are two large socials where members bring their families, dress up, eat, drink, and dance the night away. Spouses are welcome at some clubs and functions, but as current member Carole Jenness quips, “Girl’s Night Out is NOT one of them!!”

But the league isn’t only for newcomers – whether you’ve lived in the area for 3 days or 3 decades, you’re welcome to join! Many women who have had life-changing circumstances such as a divorce, death of a spouse, or retirement, are looking for a new outlet - a new social circle.

The members open their arms to all. As publicity co-chair Vicki Bronaugh puts it, “We never let a woman stand alone. We’ve all been there.”

Bronaugh stresses that you can be as busy or not as you want to be. Join one club, or join multiple.

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You can be busy all week long if you’d like.

Pam Legvold came to Corpus Christi after spending over a decade in Holland. She found that joining the league really made her transition back to Texas more comfortable. The league was instrumental in helping Legvold plant roots again. “I needed to start over, new doctors, new hair salons, all those little things you may not think of. The league is the perfect referral network!”

Current President Kim Woodall points out that it’s easy to join, but the key is to get involved. She suggests “Get involved immediately, be busy, we’re a social group that cares about the community.”

Although this is a nonprofit organization where funds go straight back into socials, they find ways to give back.

Through the Hearts and Hands Club, members participate in charities close to their hearts. Their various charitable endeavors include Toys for Tots, the Ronald McDonald House, Habitat for Humanity, Beach Cleanups…the list could go on.

The oldest member of the league recently passed away at 102 years old. The women have a theory – girlfriends keep you young!!

Activities the leaguers arrange include not only coffees, lunches and cocktail hours, but they think outside the box, too! Other events include: Mahjongg, Movie Club, Antique Club, Bunco, Lagerheads, and Friends of Bacchus, to name a few.

Interested in joining? www.newneighborscc.com

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1.

A LA MANO!

November 20th, 2015 North Bayfront Park www.visitcorpuschristitx.org Food Truck Friday brings tasty food to your fingertips the last Friday of each month at North Bayfront Park from 11AM to 2PM. (Please note the special date for the November A La Mano event; rescheduled for the 3rd Friday due to the Thanksgiving Holiday.)

Live Music! Lawn Games! Food Trucks! We promise you’ll be back at your desk within the hour! Grab a friend and head on down! A La Mano is everything you need for a nice, relaxing lunch on the Bayfront. Live music provided by Rudolph Llanes.

5 THINGS

To Mark On Your Calendar

2.

CC HOT TAMALE STREET FEST November 21th, 2015 Chapparal Street www.cchottamalefest.com

Tamales, Tamales, Tamales... It’s all about the Tamales!

The CC Hot Tamale Street Fest will be showcasing South Texas’ best tamales. The festival will showcase the beautiful Marina Arts District of Downtown Corpus Christi. Have your fill of a variety of Tamales from some of the best restaurants in town and top it off with a selection of beers and beverages. Witness our panel of judges vote for C.C.’s Best Tamale and Best Creative Tamale. Relax and enjoy a variety of entertainment including a children’s talent show, local live music acts and much more. And don’t forget to be there for Corpus Christi’s first Hot Tamale Eating Contest...who will brave the Hot Tamale? Viva Tamales!

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3.

MILES 4 MEALS

November 7th, 2015 NorthShore Country Club www.foodbankcc.com HEB Miles 4 Meals Glow is a night 5K Run/Walk to benefit the Corpus Christi Food Bank. The Food Bank does not only help people in Corpus Christi, the Food Bank serves the needs of people with hunger in 11 different counties in our area.

Come and get your glow on. Join us as we glow in the dark along the streets of Portland and the path of the private golf course. This night run-walk will take you onto the North Shore Country Club where you will have a view of Corpus Christi Bay during your run or walk. Your participation in our Miles for Meals Glow helps raise needed funds for the Food Bank. Don’t want to go but just want to glow; become a donor only and you can still get the shirt.

4.

CCSO - THE FOUR SEASONS

November 14th, 2015 7:30pm TAMUCC Performing Arts Center www.ccsymphony.org Grammy nominated violinist Robert McDuffie enjoys a dynamic and multi-faceted career. While appearing as soloist with the world’s foremost orchestras, he can also be found sharing the stage with Gregg Allman and Chuck Leavell in “Midnight Rider,” with actress/playwright Anna Deavere Smith in Martin Luther King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail, “ or playing Bach for Memphis Jook dancer Li’l Buck.

5.

PORTLAND’S CHRISTMAS TOUR OF HOMES December 5th, 2015 Portland Community Center 361-643-2827

Chatwork Civic Club is hosting the 2015 Christmas Tour of Homes in Portland. Tour 5 beautifully decorated homes and the “Little Library,” and enjoy refreshments, entertainment, and a silent auction. Chatwork is a non-profit organization and all proceeds from this event benefit the community through gifts to the Police and Fire Departments, senior citizens, and deserving college scholarship applicants. Tours take place between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 5, 2015, with refreshments and entertainment at Portland Community Center, 2000 Billy G. Webb Drive from 1:00 p.m to 5:00 p.m.

20 the bend magazine

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Dr. Paul A. Kennedy, Jr. Dr. Paul A. Kennedy, III

Orthodontist:

Dr. Timothy A. Kuhlman

4 Locations

Oral Surgeon:

Saratoga Office:

Dr. Ronald R. Schlimmer Dr. Jia Woei Wang

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

Pediatric Dentists:

Alameda Office:

Dr. William B. Haley Dr. Maria B. Tiefenbach Dr. Nicole B. Pruitt Dr. Rosanna Puente Dr. Rex Wildey Dr. Jonathan Hanks

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

Calallen Office:

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

Enclave Office:

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

General Dentists:

paulkennedydds.com 361-992-9500

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Dr. Richard J. Campbell Dr. Alissa M. Hall Dr. Annie Rothe

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Q&A with

FOOD BANK OF CORPUS CHRISTI Beatriz Hanson, Director of The Food Bank

How big is the hunger problem in the Coastal Bend?

role among the Nation’s food banks by showing that it is possible to help people to manage their diabetes through education and diet. Our Food Bank offers diabetes management classes and prepares “healthy boxes” containing diabetes-friendly foods to help participants eat right and manage their disease. The results have been so dramatic that our staff has been invited to make presentations at National Conferences and share the results of intervention and management of disease at the food pantry level. The Diabetes Hands-On Program offers A1c blood tests to all participants. They also offer them follow-up reunions to reinforce lessons learned and to monitor their progress. The Food Bank is committed to being a part of the solution to the diabetes epidemic in South Texas.

An average of 1 in 6 households in this area are at risk of hunger. The majority of these households are families with children. In fact 1 in 4 children in the Coastal Bend are at risk of hunger.

The Food Bank of Corpus Christi feeds 7,800 unduplicated people each week, 28,700 per month and 79,000 each year.

The Food Bank services 11 counties in South Texas through 145 nonprofit pantries and soup kitchens operated mostly by volunteers. This year the Food Bank distributed 8.1 million pounds of food or 6,328,125 meals.

Can anyone hold a food drive or donate food items? If so, how and where?

Where does the food come from and what kind of food is given away?

The Food Bank receives donations from local and national retailers and manufacturers. HEB, Walmart, Sam’s, Sprouts, Target and the Naval Base Exchange donated fresh produce, meats, bread, dairy products and nonperishables from their local stores on a daily basis. In addition, HEB donates 2 to 3 trailer loads of nonperishable food per month. As a member of Feeding America, the Food Bank is also eligible to accept donations from national manufacturers.

The Food Bank offers families the same product accessible at grocery stores: can goods, dry goods, snack items, bread and pastries, dairy products, meats, cold cuts, breakfast cereals and fresh produce to name a few. Donations also include personal care items, laundry detergent and seasonal merchandise.

Who gets the food and what kind of partnerships do you have with other local charities?

Low income families, elderly individuals on fixed incomes, people suffering from poor health, unemployed or underemployed individuals, the homeless, and families facing any crisis are eligible to receive food. Many families have to make choices between food and medicine, food

22 the bend magazine

The Food Bank accepts food donations from individuals or groups conducting food drives year round. We ask that those scheduling a food drive notify our office prior to their event so we can help with planning. The food can be delivered to the Food Bank’s warehouse located at 826 Krill St. or we can pick up also. and rent, food and utilities. And those are choices no one should have to make.

Partnerships between the Food Bank and other local charities are vital to better serve people in need. Charities such as Metro Ministries, Salvation Army, Good Samaritan Mission, Catholic Charities and 100 plus church-pantries receive food from the Food Bank on a regular basis. In addition, the Food Bank conducts 27 Mobile Pantry distributions a month to rural isolated communities.

How important is the nutritional value of the food and how is that monitored?

The Food Bank’s Board and staff are committed to providing not only food to families but the opportunity to have better health.

Since diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in South Texas, and diet is a vital component of diabetes management, nutrition education and diabetes management classes have become a vital component of the Food Bank’s services.

In recent years our Food Bank has taken a leadership

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What is the best way to get involved or support the Food bank of Corpus Christi?

Volunteers are always needed. Every can, every box, every egg, every carton of milk and every perishable item that comes through our doors have to be inspected, boxed and placed in inventory before it is distributed. This is a labor-intensive process that requires the help of volunteers year round. Also, monetary donations are needed to help pay for operations and to pay for freight in order to transport donated product to our warehouse.

Is there anything new or exciting happening at the Food Bank of Corpus Christi?

We are very fortunate that a 9.3 acre piece of property located at 4822 Bear Lane has already been secured and will allow us to build a 108,000 square foot facility that will meet current and future needs of the organization for the next 25 years. We are currently in the early stages of a Campaign Feasibility Study in the community that will help us best determine how to go forward with a campaign.

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SOCIAL HOUR

1. 1.

2.

THE BEND’S

7 MOST BEAUTIFUL WOMEN INSIDE AND OUT Photos by: Rachel Durrent

Benefitting: Walk with Pride, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, Power Up!, USO, Women’s Shelter of South Texas & Coastal Bend Wellness foundation

3.

1. John & Gaye White 2. Betheny Bell, Sheri Sperling, Meagan Furey, Stacey Oliver, Tara Gallaspy & Whitney Noble 3. Haley Bennett, Chet & Pam Freeman, Elaine Quinn & Gary McCord 4. Neida Clark, Cathy Mehne & Karen Freiga 5. Janie Bruun, Samantha Gates, Michelle Ezell, Kim Charba, Blaire Turnbull, Jonathan McComb, Sarah Jones & Haley Bennett

5.

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4.

Shannon’s

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Fun | Funky | Fabulous Here you will be swept up in the elegance of fine home furnishings, enamored with the whimsy of dĂŠcor, and thrilled with all of our new coastal apparel and accessories.

Sip and shop. Sample our delicious coffee while you stroll through this beautifully renovated, historic building at Old Town Six Points.

1710 S. Alameda St. Corpus Christi, TX 78404 | (361) 881-1091 | www.bleufrog.com |

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Like us on Facebook: Bleu Frog Mercantile

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SOCIAL HOUR

2.

1.

3.

1. CASA DE AMOR

BENEFITTING THE RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE Photos by: Gabriel Mancha Martinez

1. Stacie Henderson & Misty Hartman 2. Laura Zamora, Cindy Mantineo, Jane Rivera, Sarah Hewitt, Courtney Davis & Yolanda Rivera 3. Kevin & Erica Wills, Bruce & Kathy Amey 4. Adan & Debra Martinez 5. Glen & Ginger Whittington, J.D. & Crissy Hinojosa, Kevin & Lourdes Gregory

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4

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Holiday

1

Gift Guide

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WORDS: Candace Reichert

No matter who you are shopping for this Holiday season, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of The Bend’s favorite picks to help you choose that perfect gift for everyone who’s on your list this year.

From the expecting mother, your niece off in college, the trendy aunt, to the Dad who has it all. The best part of all of this is these great gifts can be found right here in the Coastal Bend.

1. BLOSSOM BOUTIQUE Blanket Scarf {$38} at Bleu Frog

7. DIAN MALOUF Opal Ring {$1020} at Linens and Lace

2. KATE SPADE Agenda {$36} at Hamlin Pharmacy

8. CAPRI BLUE CANDLES Volcano {$23} at Goosefeathers

3. KATE SPADE Pencil Pouch in Green {$30} at Hamlin Pharmacy 4. JUJUBE DIAPER BAG BFF The First Lady {$180} at Kish Mish Boutique 5. TEXTURED GENTS BAND 14 Karat Brilliant White Gold {$1566} at Peter Barr Designing Jewelers 6. BLACK JADE INLAY GENTS RING 14 Karat Brilliant White Gold {$2200} at Peter Barr Designing Jewelers

9. LAFCO CANDLES Golden Chestnut Sent {$60} at Goosefeathers 5

10. LAFCO CANDLES Ski Home Diffuser {$115} at Goosefeathers

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6

11. PARKER SOUTHERN Braedon Chair {ON SALE! $1500} at Buddy Walker Home Furnishings 7

12. KENDRA SCOTT Elisa Necklace in Gold Platinum Druzy {$65} at Coastal Closet

SOUTH LIFE Lab & Quail Men’s Belt {$47} at Bleu Frog

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KENDRA SCOTT Tessa Earrings in Gunmetal Black Druzy {$50} at Coastal Closet

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LILLY PULITZER Earbuds {$16} at Hamlin Pharmacy

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DIYHoliday Gift Wrap Now that all of your shopping is done, the last thing you want to worry about is gift wrapping and all the cost that goes along with it. With these fun and easy tips from The Bend, not only will wrapping your gifts this year be enjoyable, it will also save you some extra money.

Simple Supplies List:

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• Brown Crafts Paper • Twine • Colorful Stars or Dots Stickers (from your local crafts store) • White, Silver, Green or Red Paint

• Splatter Paint Wrap

• Roll out crafts paper into long strips • Take a small amount of each paint and splatter away • Allow time to dry before rolling back up until you are ready to wrap away

Stickered, Stamped, & Stenciled Wraped

• Roll out crafts paper into long strips • Create a fun pattern with your stickers or stamps for a personalized touch • Roll back up for future use

Once you have your paper decorated and all your gifts are wrapped, add a festive touch to each present with some twine or yarn bows, pine/fig leaves, and colorful artificial berries.

Your friends and family will be raving about your creative touch long after the holiday season!

LILLY PULITZER Key Fob {$18} at Hamlin Pharmacy

PJ HARLOW PAJAMAS Camisole Tank {$44} Satin Pant {$71} Robe {$86} at Bleu Frog

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SOUTH LIFE Men’s Wallet {$44} at Bleu Frog

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GIVING BACK

“EVERY DOLLAR DONATED MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN OUR COMMUNITY - $10 BECOMES $20; $100 BECOMES $200!” says Sue Jackson, Director of Grants.

WORDS: Sue Jackson PHOTOS: Courtesy of Sue Jackson

Coastal Bend Day of Giving

Photo by Rachel Durrent

The Coastal Bend Community Foundation is continuing their annual Coastal Bend Day of Giving on November 10th, where they never stop striving at “Improving the Quality of Life in the Coastal Bend.”

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It seems that $10 doesn’t go very far these days, but nothing could be further from the truth for the 40 participating nonprofits in this year’s Coastal Bend Day of Giving, to be held on Tuesday, November 10th. A donation as little as $10 dollars can provide:

to provide much needed care and services to their clients.The best part of donating on the Day of Giving is that the amount donated will be matched and doubled, up to $16,250 per nonprofit. Just think – each nonprofit can raise at least $32,500!

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Over 70 meals for a family getting back on its feet – feeding a family of four, three meals per day for six days.

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Backpacks for two low-income children, complete with back-to-school supplies and nutritious snacks, so they are ready on the first day of school.

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An evening of sober social activities for teens struggling with addiction.

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A month’s supply of medication, keeping a senior living on a fixed income out of the hospital.

“Every dollar donated makes a difference in our community - $10 becomes $20; $100 becomes $200!” says Sue Jackson, Director of Grants. Twenty one local funders have committed $650,000 to match individual donations, making twice the impact to our community. Thanks to the generosity of these matching funders and Coastal Bend residents, almost $5.5 million has been raised through the six previous Days of Giving. In 2014 alone, over 34,000 people were touched by donations made through the Coastal Bend Day of Giving.

Now in its seventh year, the Coastal Bend Day of Giving is a chance for ordinary people to be philanthropists, giving everyone a way to help local friends and families in need. On November 10th, for that 24-hour period, online donations made to 40 local nonprofits enables them

Major Tarryl Ray, Executive Director of Salvation Army, noted, “The Day of Giving is a gift not just to the nonprofits but also to the greater community. With last year’s donations, we sheltered almost 800 families – helping them to find jobs, manage their finances, and obtain

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permanent housing – restoring community stability, one family at a time.”

Bea Hanson, Executive Director of Food Bank of Corpus Christi, agreed, “In addition to distributing a record amount of food to area residents through local food pantries in the past year, the Food Bank also assisted over 150 area diabetic residents to take charge of their health through “Diabetes Hands On,” a nationally-recognized program that focuses on keeping A1c levels down and diabetics in compliance. Without the Day of Giving, we would not have the ability to fund this lifesaving project.”

Jennifer Starr, Executive Director of Foster Angels of South Texas, summed it up, “We give foster children what they need most at just the right moment – their moment of need. Donations from the 2014 Day of Giving provided almost 300 foster children with what they needed – not next week or next month, but “right now.” We’re delighted that there are people in the Coastal Bend community who understand that this moment of caring can translate into a lifetime of difference.”

This year, the Coastal Bend Day of Giving makes it easy for residents to invest in our community. With just a few keystrokes on the website www.coastalbenddayofgiving.org, select the nonprofits one may wish to donate and change the life of a neighbor in need. The Day of Giving has also added new features for 2015 to make giving even easier!

Starting November 1st, donors may now “preschedule” their donations on the site. eChecks are now a payment option, allowing donors who do not wish to use a credit card the opportunity to give. As a reminder, no administrative fees are charged to either the matching funds or individual donations, except credit card fees charged to the latter. All funds raised go directly to the community.

For further information about this year’s nonprofit agencies or the matching funders, please go to the website www. coastalbenddayofgiving.org or contact the Coastal Bend Community Foundation at 361.882.9745.

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32 the bend magazine

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT CORPUS CHRISTI LIVE!

CORPUS CHRISTI LIVE! HEAR IT. FEEL IT. LIVE IT. THIS ALL-VOLUNTEER, NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION HAS ONE MAIN MISSION: BRING THE BEST IN LIVE ENTERTAINMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY. The PAC is ready for another CCL season.

WORDS: Bob Copes PHOTO: David Satterwhite

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Season ticket prices range from $50 to $160 for the entire six-concert package, making a Corpus Christi Live! subscription one of the best entertainment values in the region.

W

ith the opening performance of its 81st season only weeks away, Corpus Christi Live!

Board President, Nick Colosi, reflected on the legacy he inherited and the work that still lies ahead. Plans were in place for the upcoming six-concert series – a breathtaking range of musical styles and the first-ever inclusion of a ventriloquist. Scheduling for the 2016/2017 season had already begun, and there is much to do.

musical styles allowing the number of concerts to increase. More recently, it became Corpus Christi Live!, and in 2009, the concerts moved to the Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi Performing Arts Center. Ticket prices remain low compared to other live musical entertainment in the region because all the work – booking shows, arranging for staging, marketing the shows, selling tickets, keeping the books, and even bringing snacks to the performers – is done by volunteers to the 501(C)(3) organization.

“I’m most proud that we bring world-class entertainment at a low cost with a volunteer staff,” he said. But the board’s focus was on spreading the word and filling the seats. They are amateurs in the best sense of the word, doing the work for the love of it - not for fame or fortune. And if history is any indication, get tickets now while they are still available!

Corpus Christi Live! strives to educate as well as entertain, seeking artists who offer master classes or educational outreach programs to music students from area public and private schools. Last season featured saxophone virtuoso Rob Verdi, a long-time performer in Disneyland’s Main Street Strutters.

While here, he taught and then performed with students from Flour Bluff High School’s Jazz Band and Wind Ensemble. The 2014-2015 season closed with an homage to Frank Sinatra that featured Las Vegas regular Steve Lippia, who also met with high school students to introduce them to the man and his music. These artists, and others who visit, see this education component as a way to give back for the career that music has offered them and, as Verdi puts it, “…inspire talent along the way.”

Corpus Christi Live! has roots dating back to 1934, five years into the Great Depression. In the midst of hard times, a group of local music lovers came up with an idea – “Let’s put on a show!” It began as part of the Civic Music Association, a national organization that helped small communities bring classical artists to local venues at a reasonable cost.

Concerts were held in school auditoriums or movie theaters and later in the Selena Auditorium and the Richardson Performance Hall at Del Mar College.

As time went on, the organization’s name changed to Corpus Christi Community Concerts, and its offerings expanded to include a wider variety of

34 the bend magazine

In striving to craft a season offering something for everyone, Corpus Christi Live! stresses variety.

“What makes CCL distinctive?” asks Marketing Vice-President Craig Walley. “In a word – diversity.

Corpus Christi Live! brings wonderfully diverse [live] shows to the people in South Texas and the

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FIRST PAGE: Top Left: Last season’s Live from Nashville was a country-western extravaganza.

(Photo by David Satterwhite) Top Right: Brian Roman’s emotional performance of American standards kept the audience enthralled. (Photo by David Satterwhite) Bottom Left: Song stylist Steve Lippia channeled “Ol’ Blue Eyes” to the delight of a packed house.

(Photo by David Satterwhite) Bottom Right: The new season begins November 8 when multi-platinum recording artists The Diamonds take the stage. (Photo by Live on Stage)

Corpus Christi area.” Last spring, Corpus Christi Live! surveyed season ticket holders and other concert-goers about the musical styles they’d like to see in future concerts. The top preferences were country western music, big band music, Broadway show tunes, and classic rock.

Many respondents expressed an interest in humor, which led to the ventriloquist’s booking, and many said that the thing they liked best about Corpus Christi Live! was that they could enjoy so many different types of performers in one season.

SECOND PAGE: Saxophone virtuoso Rob Verdi’s performance last season showcased talented Flour Bluff High School musicians, and the largest saxophone on the planet.

(Photo by David

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The 2015-2016 season begins on Sunday, November 8, when multi-platinum recording artists The Diamonds perform classic hits like “Chantilly Lace,” “The Wanderer” and “Unchained Melody.” Five more concerts follow from November to March of 2016. This season features a bonus concert, courtesy of the city of Corpus Christi. The city’s Arts and Cultural Commission awarded a grant funded by the Hotel Occupancy Tax to Corpus Christi Live!, so this year’s season ticket holders will see six concerts for the same subscription price they paid for five last season.

Quality, variety, value, and community volunteers are the ingredients that have kept Corpus Christi Live! operating in the Coastal Bend for 81 years. Go, see and hear why!!

For more information, 361-980-1949 or go to corpuschristilive.com

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Heart DEEP IN THE

of SOUTH TEXAS The stars at night - are big and bright Deep in the heart of Texas The prairie sky - is wide and high Deep in the heart of Texas - June Hershey, Deep in the Heart of Texas

E

very local ranch is a little different from the next. In fact, there are still working ranches in our region that have been passed down from generation to generation. A few are still operating today. However, modern ranching is becoming less of a profession and more of a lifestyle. New ranch owners are in it more for pleasure than profit. Not to mention that securing the mineral rights to newly purchased land is near impossible. The following stories barely skim the surface of ranching in our region. Just like the land itself, the topic is vast and deep. We merely hope to offer two local perspectives and a small glimpse into experiencing the simple life for yourself.

As much as the industry has evolved over the years, there is still a part that remains the same. Ranching is an escape from hectic city life. It’s a chance to reconnect with family, nature, and to experience the majesty of our wide open South Texas skies and drown in an endless sea of stars.

PHOTOS: Rachel Durrent

Laura Berry’s New Frontier

At 84, skeet shooting, cattle breeding, and skydiving are just some of the ways Laura Berry is staying active.

HOME ON THE RANCH On a warm day in October, Mrs. Berry adjusts her ear plugs before locking her 12-gauge tightly against her shoulder. She fires a thundering shot across the beautiful lake at Lonesome Dove Ranch in San Patricio. It’s the heart of dove season in South Texas, and a single mourning dove is startled across the lake.

She lets off a quick round – a rare miss. Dove season might be Mrs. Berry’s favorite time of year. Not only is she an avid dove hunter, she enjoys opening the gates of Lonesome Dove Ranch to the community for fundraising shoots. Just a few days earlier the Corpus Christi Police Department held its 5th Annual Dove Hunt that raised over $161,000 for the CC Police Athletic League. Four days later Halo Flight had their Annual Hunt.

Lonesome Dove Ranch still operates as a working ranch today.

A long-time cattle woman, Mrs. Berry breeds some of the finest Beefmaster cattle in South Texas. For a while, the Lonesome Dove Ranch operated as a hub for education of other cattle breeders. Her sons helped build the ranch, working every summer and weekends. Many clinics have been hosted on the ranch in association with Texas A&M Extension Center – Corpus Christi. However, after the recent draught, she had to sell off around 800 head because there was not enough hay available in South Texas..

Like any self-described “outdoors girl,” Mrs. Berry is always looking for a new adventure; a new frontier; a new purpose.

When she is not at the office, she spends a lot of time out on the ranch cruising around in her off-road, utility vehicle checking WORDS: Whitney Noble PHOTOS: Rachel Durrent

WORDS: Whitney Noble PHOTOS: Rachel Durrent

“On one of our first dates, [my late husband] Marvin took me shooting. I was a natural!”

I’ve N

Practi

e v er

ced

Not O nce

on her cattle and sometimes shooting clays. These days, however, her mind is set on a new goal. She is looking beyond the horizon, hoping to offer greener pastures for those brave soldiers wounded in battle. And part of the adventure was the day she jumped out of an airplane.

On September 26th, Mrs. Berry crossed skydiving off of her bucket list at the 2015 Remington Great Americans Shoot (RGAS), a charity event put on for the Special Forces Charitable Trust. It was all for the sake of giving back to our wounded American heroes. She picks up her iPhone and flips through the photos and videos from the dive, proudly showing off her front flip straight out the plane and flawless landing while the crowd cheers in the background. This “shock and awe approach” completely worked! She described the jump as a “spiritual experience,” as she plunged down toward God’s green earth.

A BORN NATURAL As proven, Mrs. Berry knows how to peer down the barrel of her gun with unmatched confidence. She’s as steady as she was in 1948. That was a life-changing year. It was the year she met her late husband, and also the year she picked up a gun for the first time, not knowing all the good that would eventually come from her pure talent.

“I never practice,” says Mrs. Berry. “I really don’t have the time”.

After leaving her hometown of Center, Texas, she moved to Baytown, where Mrs. Berry met her husband, Marvin Berry. He was working for his father’s contracting company. On their first date, Marvin escorted Laura to the then Pleasure Pier, in Galveston. At the time, The Pleasure Pier consisted of one very large building over the water. That night, Frederick Royal’s orchestra was playing. Royal is the father to Billy Gibbons of rock band ZZ Top and a friend of Laura’s. This information was confirmed one night when Billy called Mrs. Berry to find out the year of her and Mr. Berry’s first date.

A few years later, Marvin bought that building, moved it to Corpus Christi and turned it into a fabrication shop. Today, it remains their No. 1 fabrication shop as part of their business, Bay Ltd., a Berry Company. “How many women can say their husbands bought them the building they had their first date in?” Mrs. Berry adds.

Over the next 13 years, the Berry’s birthed four boys along with developing their own company. Raising and growing both kept the two quite busy.

Berry Contracting, Inc., one of the leading multi-discipline construction, fabrication and maintenance contractors in the nation, is now the largest privately-owned company in Corpus Christi. Mr. Berry founded the com-

All four sons grew up raising cattle, and this is how they put themselves through college. The Berry’s raised their boys to be self-sufficient, ranch-raised men who knew the meaning of hard work.

A DECORATED LADY It wasn’t until Mrs. Berry met Mr. Berry that she even held a gun.

“On one of our first dates, [late husband] Marvin took me shooting. I was a natural!” Mrs. Berry delights. It was a 22 pistol. Then she graduated to shotguns, beginning with a 20-gauge, then the 12-gauge she’s used for years. Mrs. Berry has also shot a 30-06 rifle for deer, and moved on to the 300 Weatherby she shoots today. With a 12-gauge in her arms, she’s right at home, even outfitting herself with earrings and bracelets made from shotgun shells.

For many years now, she’s been shooting her 12-guage, and darn proud of it! She and Mr. Berry used to hunt and shoot for fun on their ranch. Sadly, Marvin Berry passed on November 23, 1997 from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) after a lengthy battle with the disease; however, his passion for the community lives on through Mrs. Berry’s work in the company and through charity.

Time has proven her skills, and just this year in May she brought home a bronze medal for the United States at the World Columbaire Shoot, at her favorite hunting spot in Guadalajara, Mexico. It was in Guadalajara where Mrs. Berry won 40 the bend magazine

Photo Courtesy: Special Forces Charitable Trust

COMPASSION FOR VETERANS David Guernsey, Executive Director of the Special Forces Charitable Trust, says that “Before this year’s shoot she was insistent on jumping out of the plane...she was determined. However, I wouldn’t allow her to jump without doctor’s permission. Laura promised she had permission, but, I never did see a letter! Her unwavering support of the RGAS has been nothing short of spectacular, and we’re deeply appreciative.”

Laura Berry lands after jumping out of a plane

Guernsey brags about Mrs. Berry’s involvement in the Gold Star Teen Adventures that supports children who have lost their fathers in combat. “Her generosity, outlook on life, and demeanor is infectious and outstanding,” Guernsey says.

Kenneth Wasley, CEO of Special Forces Parachute Team explained how they partnered with the Charitable Trust and RGAS this year for the jumps. Wasley says “Mrs. Laura Berry was made an honorary member of the Team, and she truly took a leap of faith at the RGAS.” Originally established as the Green Beret Parachute Club in 1961, the organization is now known as the Special Forces Parachute Team.

They are a nonprofit 501(c)(19) that provides parachute demonstrations that support communities, corporations, events and other nonprofits.

They honor our military men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. For 54 years they have performed skydiving parachute demonstrations in front of millions of spectators. As part of their program they provide horse camp retreat programs for Children of Fallen Heroes. This enables healing, develops character and teamwork skills that create lifelong relationships through a life changing adventure.

Founder and Shoot Chair, Mike Reynolds, explains that this charity brings in the most money

Photo Courtesy: Mark DeLeon

In 1974, they bought the Lonesome Dove Ranch in San Patricio County. That was also the same year that they found Robert Ferretes at age 24, in a deer blind, nearly frozen to death and took him in,” says Mrs. Berry. “Ferretes became like a fifth son to the Berry’s. He lived on the ranch and helped out alongside their boys. He got his green card, went to school, and became a voting United States Citizen. Now, at 64 years old, he’s a real good cattle person and a great American.”

first place shooting box birds, a most prized award. She’s never felt so proud as when she stood on that podium and they played the Star Spangled Banner.

The Key Turnover Ceremony honoring Mark DeLeon Photo Courtesy: Special Forces Charitable Trust

pany to be committed to producing quality construction services that supported the growth and future of South Texas.

The 2015 RGAS Shoot

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Organizations:

Mrs. Berry served on the Arts Commission for the City of Corpus Christi, the Beautify Corpus Christi Association, the Tuloso Midway Independent School District Board, and is now serving on the Program Development Board of Nueces County, Chairman for Wildlife, Pasture, and Cattle Committee for Nueces County, Agricultural Development Board for Texas A&M, College Station, The Natural Resources Foundation of Texas Board in Austin, Texas and on the advisory board of Texas Tech University, Lubbock for the Department of Range, Wildlife and Fisheries. Member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas and the Texas Safari Club.

Inside the Lonesome Dove Ranch House hangs the elegant chandelier displaying a collection of antler sheds ever raised with guns. Reynolds helped put the partnered event together, and his wife, Mrs. DK Reynolds also jumped that day and was made an honorary member of the Team alongside Mrs. Berry.

BJ Finnell, with Special Forces Charitable Trust says that the 2015 RGAS was a record-breaking year. The charity sporting clay shoot held in September at Lawrence Berry’s Providence Plantation in Rosharon, TX, benefits the Charitable Trust and other military nonprofits that provide support to active duty service members and veterans. The Charitable Trust supports our Great Americans, the men and women who have served and are serving in U.S. Military Special Operations. The RGAS is one of many fundraising events for the trust, where this past year, Mrs. Berry and her team (named Lady Laura and the Shooting Stars) helped raise $1.4 million, shattering last year’s fundraising record by a quarter of a million dollars.

Then there’s the Military Warriors Support Foundation, where homes are built for veterans, mortgage free. Mark DeLeon is a Purple Heart recipient, wounded veteran who received a home on August 9, 2015. The key turnover ceremony was held at the Lonesome Dove ranch, and their home is in El Paso.

DeLeon explains that “My family and I were lucky enough to meet Mrs. Laura Berry. She hosted a key presentation ceremony along with Lt. General Leroy Sisco, founder of Military Warrior Support Foundation at the Lonesome Dove in South Texas. She is one of the most whole-

hearted, outgoing, and loving people I have ever met. She sponsored our home through Military Warrior Support Foundation and due to Mrs. Berry’s love for helping others, my family and I now have a stable home to go to at the end of every day. My family and I could not show enough gratitude to Mrs. Berry and Military Warrior Support Foundation as well as Bank of America for the blessing they have bestowed upon us. We keep in close contact with Mrs. Berry, as she is truly an individual who cares for others and loves fundraising to help others like myself.”

DeLeon’s admiration is multi-faceted. “She not only helped provided a home for my family but also showed my children that helping others is one of the most rewarding things in this world.”

At the ceremony, Mrs. Berry says DeLeon told her, “Mrs. Berry, I didn’t think that anybody cared.” Tears flowed unapologetically. “Once you meet all these heroes, you have a different outlook on life. Here are people who have truly given an arm, a leg, and other body parts, and the least I can do is support them,” Berry shares.

THE BERRY LEGACY The Berry Family believes in giving back to the communities in which Berry Contracting, Inc. Bay Ltd. A Berry Company, operates. The company believes in ‘People caring about other people,” which goes beyond the workplace and into the significant community support Mrs. Berry involves herself with.

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She has nothing to prove, and everything to share. Over several decades she has given much to her community donating her resources and time to more charities than most people even know exist. After her husband’s passing, Mrs. Berry organized a support group for ALS patients and their families from Corpus Christi and surrounding areas and also started a loan bank for ALS patients.

Through Mrs. Berry’s passion and skill for shooting, she’s been able to use her talents and fabulous social status to give millions of dollars to our Coastal Bend. She has opened the doors of Lonesome Dove Ranch to many local charities, hosting dove shoots and other fundraising events. A few of the many agencies and organizations the company supports with both monetary donations and employee involvement are the Ronald McDonald House, YWCA, United Way, Blood Bank, Habitat for Humanity, CCPAL, Halo Flight, American Cancer Society, Spohn Development Program, and Metro Ministries and Special Forces Charitable Trust.

Today, the Berry legacy continues on with nine granddaughters, four grandsons and four great granddaughters. Three of the four Berry sons are a part of the business, and will continue the ranch spirit for the unforeseeable future.

However, at 84 years young, Mrs. Berry says “my hyperactive spirit has kept me going,” and with her sense of humor and record-breaking ambitions, she has no intentions of slowing down or hanging up the guns. The only question left to ask is: What could possibly be left on Laura Berry’s bucket list? thebendmag.com

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“It is South Texas brush country, and you have to appreciate it as one of the most diverse wildlife habitats across the United States.”

GET YOUR HANDS ON A RANCH Rob Grainger, a local ranch professional, offers advice on buying, staffing, and running a Coastal Bend ranch.

WORDS: Jeff King PHOTOS: Eric Morales

“There’s a better overall value in the land in the Coastal Bend and South Texas.”

O

f all the highways, interstates, and farmto-market roads that lead you into the Coastal Bend, there is no single route into South Texas’s stretch of treasured ranch country. However, once you’ve sat on the porch of a ranch house, soaking in the warm view of a lone mesquite tree silhouetted by a golden South Texas sunset, there is a good chance that you will never want to leave.

to ranch ownership, and he takes a consultative approach to ensure that each client purchases property with a very specific purpose in mind.

WHY A COASTAL BEND RANCH?

The next step is to walk through the various intended uses of the ranch. Is this a ranch you will use primarily for recreation on the weekends?

Is this something you want to use as a business, like a commercial hunting operation? Is it a tourist attraction where you’ve got people coming in and birding and doing wildlife photography? Or is this strictly an investment?”

As a graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in wildlife biology and rangeland ecology, Grainger spends most days managing the Partidas Ranch in Kleberg County, along with two out-of-state ranch properties for Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys. When he’s not ensuring that ranch operations are running smoothly for frequent visits by the Jones family, Grainger is an active real estate agent tasked with helping his clients purchase exclusive ranch properties across South Texas, an area where he believes would be a wise place to buy.

“It is South Texas brush country, and you have to appreciate it as one of the most diverse wildlife habitats across the United States,” Grainger explains. “We have our great native species of bobwhite quail, blue quail, Rio Grande turkeys, white-tailed deer, javalinas, but also in the southern most part of South Texas, across the coastal plains from the Rio Grande Valley to Corpus Christi, we have Nilgai [largest Asian antelope].”

According to Grainger, there’s a better overall value in the land in the Coastal Bend and South Texas. When you decide to buy land in the Coastal Bend, what’s really intriguing to a lot of the buyers these days is that you can get more acreage for your dollar. Many buyers come from new oil money or have one way or another come into big business recently.

“I sold a property in the Hill Country back in the spring that was $8,500 per acre, and the guy was able to acquire 155 acres, whereas he could come down to this area and buy a little under 700 acres for that. You just get a lot more bang for your buck,” says Grainger.

Grainger explains that when you buy a piece of land in the Coastal Bend, you also have to look regionally, not just particularly at that chunk of dirt. It’s all about the lifestyle. If you buy something that’s within fifty miles of Corpus Christi, you can hunt while it’s cooler in the winter and enjoy the natural resources of the ranch. Then in spring and summer when it gets warmer and out of hunting seasons, you can branch out in the area and use the ranch as your hub. You can even buy a boat to keep at the ranch and fish the surrounding bays.

CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE THE SEARCH It doesn’t take long to see why the Coastal Bend is a highly-desired area to invest in a ranch.

Grainger loves to work with clients who are new

The first step is figuring out your plans and goals for your ranch AND your pocketbook.

You don’t want to be home (ranch) poor. It is important to assess your financial situation and then match up your goals for the ranch with what you are capable of getting into.

Need an extra hand on your ranch?

Go to graingerranchrecruiting.com to learn more about Rob Grainger’s ranch recruiting services.

Since Grainger says that they quit making land a long, long time ago, it is potentially one of the soundest investments available.

“We can find a larger property with less value to it today, and you can turn it into a true investment by developing the resources, such as infrastructure, housing, and water,” said Grainger. “Ten years from now, it could double in value and end up being the property of your dreams. Another investment approach is to take that same raw land, and based on the current marketplace, put on it exactly what people are looking for and sell it to them as their dream ranch.”

Grainger advised that your profit margin may get a little skinny going this route, but you get to utilize your investment for recreation while the property value appreciates. That is if you want to take more of a family-centered approach.

“You might buy a piece of raw land with nothing on it but a water well, and bring everything else in to make it your ideal ranch that could stay in the family forever. Your grandkids could say ‘my granddaddy bought this thing forty years ago, and this is what he loved, so we are going to keep it in the family for generations,’” says Grainger.

Grainger’s focus is wildlife ranches. He informs that cattle ranching in the area is still active but has been surpassed by the commercial hunting industry. However, he still firmly believes there is both economic and practical value in running cattle on a ranch, especially considering the current status of the cattle market.

“In South Texas, we have a lot of incredible grazing land, and one thing you can do that won’t interfere with your recreation and hunting if managed properly, is to lease the land to a

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cattleman,” says Grainger. “He or she can run cattle during the winter, get a gain on the cattle, and the cattle will graze down your grass so that you can hunt quail a little easier. It ends up being a win-win for both parties.”

KEEPING UP WITH THE RANCH Between managing the Jones’ ranch properties, brokering ranch deals, and running his own business, Grainger Ranch Recruiting, LLC. Grainger rarely slows down.

“I stay pretty busy, but that’s because I know the importance of not just finding the right ranch, but ensuring that landowners bring the right people on board to make owning and managing a ranch an enjoyable experience,” says Grainger. “When you branch out into larger, more involved ranches, you’re going to need help keeping up with the ranch.”

If your main utilization of the ranch is pleasure and relaxation, Grainger assures that you won’t ever get to relax if you have to hop on the tractor, mow, trim brush, fill feeders, and fix things.

“Most ranch owners want to show up and have all those things done so they can get their friends and family out there and enjoy the ranch,” says Grainger. “I’ll come out and

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do a run through of the property, evaluate the operations, and then develop a detailed job description to meet those unique needs.”

Grainger spends a great deal of time taking the Jones family members and their guests hunting, as well as being the point of contact for any ranch-related business for the family.

He understands that there needs to be a deeper personal connection between the ranch owner and the ranch manager than just a qualified candidate.

“The person you hire is going to be taking your kids out hunting and spend time around your family. My goal is to find out who you really are so that I can find out who you really need,” says Grainger.

Assessing the need for upkeep is another important factor in finding the right person.

According to Grainger, many ranches around the Coastal Bend may not be large, but have more intensive operations than similar properties have historically had. They have large compounds and infrastructure. The upkeep on these types of ranches then requires a full-time ranch manager and possibly a wildlife biologist, especially if they are running a commercial hunting operation.

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“We’ve got 14,500 acres and have five fulltime workers here five days a week during the off-season, and for seven months out of the year during hunting season, they are here six to seven days a week,” says Grainger of operations on the Partidas Ranch. “We have a housecleaning crew and a chef, because when my ranch owners show up, they want to just relax. They don’t have time to do the upkeep, because they are running businesses elsewhere.”

The wind had just shifted earlier that day, now blowing from the north and cooled the air slightly, giving relief from the South Texas summer heat. The covey of quail on the other side of the ranch house decided to make an appearance. You could see Grainger’s anxiousness to rise out of his mesquite-wood chair and get back to work. The other ranch hands were already gearing up for sitting in designated dove spots around the ranch, scouting dove for an upcoming hunt the next day. Ranching in the Coastal Bend is gearing up for the busiest time of year. As Grainger affirms, ranch ownership doesn’t have to be a dream; it is attainable by establishing a clear plan, budget, and finding the right people to help you execute that plan.

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Kenedy Ranch

Lasso up some history at the Kenedy Ranch Museum of South Texas! Located in the town of Sarita, just 20 miles south of Kingsville, is the Kenedy Ranch Museum of South Texas. Inside the beautifully restored building of the Kenedy Pasture Company, visitors learn about Mifflin Kenedy and his family, and how their lives were interwoven with the history of what was the untamed land known as the Wild Horse Desert. Mifflin Kenedy and his friend and business partner, Richard King, first found wealth as steamboat captains on the Rio Grande. After the Civil War, they invested in land, thousands of acres of South Texas land. For the next 100 years, the Kenedy name would be significantly involved in every aspect of the economic development of south Texas - ranching, railroads, land development and oil. Tour the South Texas Museum and hear the story of three generations of Kenedys that played such an important role in South Texas history and whose lasting legacy of philanthropy continues to benefit Texans today. The museum is housed in the bottom floor of the original Kenedy Pasture Company building built in 1926.

One of the photos has reenactors from a past festival we had and they were presenting the flags that had flown over Texas. Schedule a group tour!

Kenedy Ranch Museum of South Texas 200 East La Parra Ave. P.O. Box 70 Sarita, Texas 78385 361.294.5751

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Malek Buck Horn Creek Ranch

Photo Courtesy: Geoff Atwood

Photo Courtesy: Kenedy Ranch Museum

Coastal Bend Ranch Guide

Got a competitive side? Have a good steady arm and a sharp shot? Prove it! Head out to Maleck Buck Horn Creek Ranch to partake in their Skeet Shooting Competitions! The Ranch, which is situated right in Corpus Christi, offers a picturesque setting for competitive shooting and/or target practice. The possibilities are endless!

Choose from the following shooting options: Skeet (high and low), Trap, Sporting Clays, Five Stand, Rifle or Rifle/ Pistol Range. Win bragging rights, or take your skills to the field for a real hunt! They are able to accommodate groups of all sizes. Choose from one of many different hunts, from Whitetail deer, to exotics (axis, black bucks, red stag, hogs, and javalinas), to game birds (turkeys, quail and dove). The ranch is comprised of 4,600 acres of prime game land, with 4,000 acres enclosed by a high game fence. For three generations, the outdoors and ranching is in the owner’s blood, and they want to share this passion with you!

Maleck Buck Horn Creek Ranch P.O. Box 260729 Corpus Christi, TX 78426 361-438-3002

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Tour one of the oldest ranches around! King Ranch does daily historical tours by bus, beginning at the Santa Gertrudis, where Captain King first camped in 1852, and later bought the ranch. This historic main tour takes visitors on the main loop to the four divisions of the ranch. Check out the King Ranch Carriage House where there is cattle, the resident Longhord herd, and (especially after a lot of rain) an abundance of wildlife! Catch a glimpse of the Calera Pens and Camphouse, where the cattle are vaccinated, branded and tagged. Your experiences and knowledgeable guide will explain the history and the modern day workings of the ranch. Tour-goers will pass many historic buildings including Mrs. King’s carriage house, the Commissary with its lookout tower, and the grand home built in 1912 by Captain King’s widow. One may even get to see the old cotton road that goes through the ranch, one of the first roads that ever went through South Texas. Check out the variety of nature tours and wildlife tours, too! Seating is sold on a first-come basis, so run, don’t walk!

King Ranch Visitor Center 2205 Highway 141 West PO Box 1090 Kingsville, Texas 78364-1090 361-592-8055

Photo Courtesy: The Reserve at Dancing Elk Ranch

Photo Courtesy: King Ranch Inc.

King Ranch

The Reserve at Dancing Elk Ranch

Dance the night away under the open sky and stars, or opt for the wood-beamed ceiling in the formal ballroom at the Dancing Elk Ranch, the perfect venue for any rustic and chic wedding and reception. Their 16,000-squarefoot, air-conditioned venue includes indoor and outdoor wedding sites, with seating up to 700 guests! A commercial kitchen promises an unforgettable meal and can more than accommodate all the attendees. There are even lodges and cottages available for those who would like to stay overnight. The bride can indulge in her own private Orange Cottage, aka “Honeymoon Suite,” and have an intimate space away from the rest of the guests once the night winds down. Take the most unforgettable and enviable wedding photos with the camels, deer, rams, zebras and other exotic animals that call the ranch home.

The Reserve at Dancing Elk Ranch 313 CR 351, Mathis, TX 78368 361-946-4812 361-946-4842 thereserveatdancingelk.com

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WINGS OF GOLD Naval Air Station Corpus Christi is home to the world’s premier military pilots.

The path to becoming a Naval Aviator begins as a dream.

Student pilots of Class 1530 of Training Air Wing Four fulfilled their dreams on September 25th at the Winging Ceremony held in the Catalina Club on Naval Air Station Corpus Christi (NASCC).

WORDS: Cissy Tabor PHOTOS: RenĂŠe C. Gage 48 the bend magazine

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“

These are the nation’s best of the best,” - Captain Kelsey

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I’m an engineer, so I thought flying planes was all about systems. I never knew I would have essentially a minor in weather and aviation survival. I’ve learned so much more about everything that I would never relate to aviation.

W

hile watching an aerial performance by the US Navy Blue Angels, eightyear-old Chandler Hasemeyer knew he wanted to become a Navy pilot.

At the Knoxville Tennessee airshow, young Chandler met two aviator legends Bob Hoover and Patty Wagstaff. They signed autographs and encouraged him to never give up on his dreams. “Years later, their advice stuck with me through all sorts of trials on my way to becoming a Naval Aviator,” says Lieutenant Hasemeyer; trials that include intensive academic study, water survival, simulated aircraft malfunctions, among many other challenges. The roadmap to becoming a Navy pilot may start as a college freshman with Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC), which was the first step for Ensign Amanda Braden, a University

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of Florida graduate who recently completed her solo flight with her on-wing partner, Hasemeyer. Both are pilots in Training Squadron VT-35 but different are the paths they journeyed to get to this point of success. Braden was accepted into the Naval Aviator program, Hasemeyer was not; he was selected to become a Naval Flight Officer (NFO) instead. His job was ‘in the tube,’ or the rear of the plane, operating weapon navigation systems - not in the cockpit as a pilot. This career path took him on two overseas deployments. He never gave up on his dream of becoming a Navy pilot. In May of 2014, he applied for and was authorized to transition from NFO to pilot training. “So bottom line, from that day at the airshow in Tennessee when I was eight years old, the only job I have ever truly wanted was to be a military pilot. It is my ultimate dream job and I’m truly

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blessed to see it come to fruition,” says Hasemeyer.

Ensign Eve Schnell, 25, of Panama City, Florida, also dreamt of being a pilot. Schnell worked part time on a Navy Base during summers and listened to her father talk about his love of flying. Medically unable to fly with the Air Force, her father flew a civilian plane. Schnell went on to graduate with a degree in retail merchandizing and sports management at Florida State and worked at a job she did not like.

But the dream was always in the back of her mind. “It’s never going to happen. It’s really competitive.” However, one day she thought, “If you don’t like your job, you should really attempt the pipe dream, and I was floored to get accepted for an aviation spot. I’m so glad I didn’t like my job and took the leap of faith,” Schnell says.

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trains students in multi-engine aircraft.

It is near the end of Advanced Training where student pilots must complete a solo flight before earning their wings. Flight partners, Schnell, and North Carolina resident, Lieutenant (junior grade) Kevin Knaup, 24, of Training Squadron 31 (VT-31) received over 120 hours of instructor flight training in the multi-engine aircraft T-44 Pegasus.

“We wanted big wings, more engine and a crew,” explains Schnell when describing the much larger T-44.“The training is better than I expected, harder than I expected, and more rewarding; the best of all scenarios,” says Knaup. Now, at the end of their weighty syllabus with over 30 events or missions under their belt, they are ready for their solo flight. Their destination is Austin. They will rely on each other and the months of in-flight instructor training and knowledge from intense academic study. However, this day for their solo flight, there is no instructor.

Confidence exceeds nerves and these two are eager to succeed. “The standard here is always an ‘A,’ not only for your physical abilities but also the knowledge of the plane. You have to have an A+ across-the-board. The instructors care about your learning. By the end, they send you out and you’re ready. You’ve worked every single day to get here,” explains Knaup. On a previous flight Schnell and Knaup were tested with two hours of emergency simulations. “They will give you everything from “your wings are on fire at 20,000 feet,” or “you’re coming in to land and you’re 300 feet above the ground and you’ve lost both engines”, explains Knaup. Schnell compliments her flight partner: “He did great. He lost both engines and put that plane down. We get to this point where our confidence is built and we’ve handled every emergency you can imagine, and now we feel like we can together safely take a plane out,” says Schnell. Their flight instructor, Lieutenant Bryan Begin boasts about his students.

“When you think about all the wickets you have to go through and all the challenges you have to overcome to succeed, it is a tremendous accomplishment.”

in one pocket. Today is an exception, as their solo flight includes a taco lunch in Austin. Other pockets are filled with earplugs, water bottles, a baggy or puke bag, pen and pencil, and large clips to hold the pages of the aircraft manual. First stop, the maintenance room, where the pilots check ‘The Book’ for their assigned aircraft. Schnell reviews page after page of maintenance records revealing oxygen level quantity, repair of an inoperative light, GPS update, daily engine rinse, and other inspections. The pilots step out into the sun-drenched clear blue sky and begin removing covers, untying the wings, and opening compartments on the aircraft. The checklist includes 150 items.

Kevin checks emergency batteries, brake fluid, and oil levels. They both walk around the airplane looking for leaks or damage. Knaup climbs into the cabin, hops into the pilot’s seat, stretches his hand out the window and holds up three fingers to Schnell who stands in front of the aircraft and gives thumbs up that the lights are working. Once they are comfortable with the condition of the plane, they are ready for take off. Kevin takes a moment to realize how far he has come; “You pass everything, but it doesn’t sink in, not until I’m wearing wings of gold on my chest.”

When you think about all the wickets you have to go through and all the challenges you have to overcome to succeed, it is a tremendous accomplishment.

P

ATH TO WINGS

Those entering aviation programs must receive a commissioning through The Army’s ROTC or Officer Training School in Newport, Rhode Island or the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. However, before student aviators ever leave the ground, they undergo water survival training during Aviation Preflight Indoctrination (API), a six-week course at Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. The Helicopter-Dunker is a particularly memorable challenge. Strapped in and blindfolded, the student must find his/her way out of the cabin of an upside-down, submerged helicopter. Water survival skills also include swimming with 70 pounds of gear, putting on a life vest and survival floating. Next, prospective pilots attend Primary Flight Training locally at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi (NASCC) or at the Naval Air Station Whiting Field, where they learn to fly the T-6, a single-engine aircraft. Intermediate Training, or Ground School, follows with intensive study of the aircraft systems, navigation training, and weather and federal aviation flight rules.

The final phase is Advanced Training where students receive several months of flight training in aircrafts similar to those they will fly in the fleet. Students submit a “dream sheet” requesting one of four pipelines: jet, helicopter, tilt – rotor (for Marine Corps students) or multi-engine aircraft. NASCC’s Training Air Wing Four

Dressed in green flight suits covered with pockets from head to toe, Schnell and Knaup start their pre-flight routine.

Schnell usually carries a pb&j sandwich

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“These cross-country flight opportunities are great because they get to go outside of the local training environment and fly into busy airports,” explains instructor Lieutenant Begin. Schnell and Knaup’s flight went off without a hitch and the pilots landed safely back at the base later that day. Co-pilots, Braden and Hasemeyer’s solo flight back from Laredo was altered due to bad weather, causing the young pilots to land at Corpus Christi International Airport. Learning about weather is essential in aviator training. “I’m an engineer, so I thought flying planes was all about systems. I never knew I would have essentially a minor in weather and aviation survival. I’ve learned so much more about everything that I would never relate to aviation,” says Knaup. “In a way, we’ve got a doctorate in aviation; we’ve spent the same years and time,” adds Schnell.

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N

EXT ACHIEVEMENT

Now that they are Professional Military Aviators and no longer students, where do they go from here? Knaup’s background is with the Coast Guard, and after receiving his wings he will be stationed at the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station in Barbers Point, Hawaii.

In two short months he could be on a search and rescue case. “Some of my classmates that are aviators ahead of me went out for their first time in the Coast Guard aircraft to go save a life,” said Knaup. Schnell will check in at the Naval training squadron in Jacksonville, Florida, and then onto Maine for two weeks of survival training in the woods. Here, she will learn how to evade capture and participate in Prisoner of War training. Her return to Jacksonville will find her studying a new aircraft manual for flight training on the P-8 Poseidon, whose mission is anti submarine warfare. She and other classmates selected the P-8 aircraft over the older model P-3. The pilots preferred choice of which aircraft they will next learn to fly is based on the Navy’s needs, students’ grades and performance, and lastly, their preference. Schnell’s choice of the newer P-8 is natural, but “I chose it because it has a bathroom and that’s a pretty big deal. The P-3 had a funnel,” she laughs.

N

ASCC

Orange and white striped planes marked NAVY or MARINE line the airfield at Training Air Wing Four at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. Four squadrons under the command of the Commodore, Captain John Kelsey, graduate 350-400 naval aviators

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The Aviator’s Creed “I am a United States Military Aviator.

My countrymen built the best airplane in the world and entrusted it to me. They trained me to fly it. I will use it to the absolute limit of my power.

With my fellow pilots, aircrew and deck crew, I will do anything necessary to carry out our tremendous responsibilities.

I will always remember that we are part of an unbeatable combat team- the United States Military.

When the going is fast and rough, I will not falter. I will be uncompromising in every blow that I strike. I will be humble in victory.

I am a United States Military Aviator. I have dedicated myself to my country, with its many millions of all races, colors and creeds. They and their way of life are worthy of my greatest protective efforts.

I ask the help of God in making that effort great enough.

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each year. In 1944, NASCC was the largest Naval aviation training facility in the world.

Today, NASCC is the Navy’s only multi-engine training base. Navy, Marine and Coast Guard aviators earn their wings flying Truax Field, outlying military and civilian airfields, and cross-country flights. NASCC is an ideal training facility because there is relatively little air traffic and unlimited air space.

Several famous pilots earned their wings at NASCC. In 1943, at the age of 18, President George H. Bush was in the third winging class and the youngest pilot ever to get his wings. Commodore Kelsey earned his wings at NASCC in 1993. He describes the moment of being pinned with the wings of gold as “the culmination of a dream.”

W

INGING

This is a day like no other day. Hailed as one of the most special moments in their life, aviators count it among the top best, up there with their wedding day, and the birth of their children. Winging Day begins with a breakfast for families and friends who have traveled from all over to attend this auspicious event. Family members try their hand at the flight simulators, usually ending in a crash. Also included in the day’s activities is the tradition of the soft patch ceremony of a pre-winging. Commander Samuel Gage of Training Squadron 31 talks to the students, saying: “Be Humble, Be Ready, Be Worthy.”

He explains what a great day this is but that they will go on to other achievements, so ‘Be Humble.’ He warns them not to wish they had studied more, so ‘Be Ready.’ He reminds them that many people went before them to make this opportunity possible so, ‘Be Worthy.’ Also, prior to the actual Wing-

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him as her mother, Michelle, pins the golden wings on her husband’s chest.

Cheering erupts from the family and friends present in support of Hasemeyer. Legacy wings are pinned on Ensign John North by his father, also John North, of Jacksonville, Florida. These golden wings, with slightly tarnished ends, were pinned on the elder John North in 1973.

He flew the A-4 Skyhawk in the US Marine Corps. “I’m very proud,” says North of his son. “He is continuing the chain of pilots in the family.” The ceremony concludes with a light-hearted Spouses’ Award Presentation. Spouses are invited up to the front and presented with a certificate of appreciation for “serving as the neglected spouse of a student aboard Training Wing Four.” Against a backdrop of flags, family and friends gather with the graduate as the photographer captures pictures. “Very proud” is heard from parents and spouses whose eyes well up with joyful tears. The moment elicits hugs and big smiles for the newly designated Naval Aviators and the culmination of their dream.

Famous people who have received their Wings of Gold at NASCC: • President George H. Bush • US Senator and Presidential candidate John McCain • Astronaut and US Senator John Glenn • MLB player Ted Williams • TV game show personality Bob Barker • The first four female Naval Aviators: Barbara Allen Rainey, Rosemary Bryant Mariner, Judith Neuffer Bruner, and Jane Skiles O’Dea

ing, family and friends attend The Aviator’s Blessing at the Base Chapel where a Navy Chaplain blesses the golden wings and prays for protection. Afterward, everyone gathers at the All-Hands Club, called the Catalina Club. Navy and Coast Guard students dressed in their whites, and Marine Corp students in their dress blues, sit upright in their chairs waiting their moment.

Father John Vidal opens the ceremony with a prayer.

Commander Arthur Hodge of Training Squadron 35 describes the graduates as “impressive,” and having “such incredible character traits and values. We may have taught them to fly, but it was you who taught them how to be successful,” Hodge says to the parents. A Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce board member congratulates the aviators and presents them with a citizenship certificate and the Flyers Creed.

Captain Kelsey thanks the Chamber for purchasing the wings of gold for Naval aviators since the 1950s.

“The relationship between us and the Corpus Christi community is integral,” says Captain Kelsey. “We are proud of the program we run here,” and he attributes the success to the relationship with the community.

The Commodore compliments the aviators, “They are bound by honor, courage and commitment.”

He speaks of the tremendous competitiveness and hard work it took to arrive at this day. “These are the nation’s best of the best,” said Captain Kelsey.

Fifteen graduates are awarded their wings. Knaup’s wife, Stephanie, who arrived from her post with the Coast Guard in Pensacola, Florida, pins her husband’s wings on as her mother, who traveled from California, watches. Schnell’s parents come up when her name is called and her father pins on her golden wings. As Hasemeyer is presented with his golden wings, Anna Claire, his young daughter, calls out from the audience, “Daddy” and runs up to stand next to

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Requirements: Applicants wanting to become Naval Officers must meet the physical, academic and moral standards to serve in the Navy. Those who desire to become Naval Aviators require additional testing.

Basic Requirements: • • • •

College degree U.S. citizen Physically qualified Age 19 to 26

For more information, visit www.navy.com or find your recruiter at navy.com/ locator.html

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend Photography by Raymond Gray

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.

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Special Promotion

2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Portrait Photography Raymond Gray For 30 years, Raymond Gray has owned and operated Gray Photography in the Corpus Christi area, specializing in portraiture of families, children and individuals. He continues to capture the finest in lifestyle portraits from every walk of life and profession and timeless images for special events.

“I have been blessed in countless ways over the years, having been able to work with an amazing community of wonderful people,” says Raymond. “I am extremely thankful to be involved in a profession that I absolutely love!”

Through extended education and national print competitions Raymond has received 25 National Merit Awards. He has earned the rare distinction of “Master Photographer” from the Professional Photographers of America and twice named “Photographer of the Year” from the Texas Professional Photographers Association. Many of his images have become a part of the “Loan Collection” representing the U.S. in International Exhibits.

Raymond and his team at Gray Photography are committed to providing the finest in creative and quality portrait photography for the Coastal Bend.

361-853-4450 | 361-876-8812 3850 S. Alameda STE 21 - lamar park corpus christi grayphotographyinc.com

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Green Home Building Mr. Bart Braselton 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 Braselton’s building in the Bay Area.

Braselton Homes has won many local, state and national awards, including the Fastest Growing Builders in the U.S. and earns consistent rankings in both Builder Magazine and Professional Builder Magazine as one of the Top 200 largest home builders in the United States. Their national “Green” awards include the Energy Star Leadership in Housing Award from the EPA and the Environments for Living Diamond Award for Energy Efficiency from MASCO, the building industry’s leading green building supplier. Locally, they have won the Corpus Christi Builder of the Year Award twice in the past eight years.

Braselton Homes is a founding member of the Coastal Bend GreenBuilt (CBGB) Council and Bart is its present Chairman. Since 2009, Braselton Homes has played a major role in the green building movement, building almost 60% of all the green homes in the Coastal Bend, including the first platinum level CBGB home in the Corpus Christi area. Braselton Homes is passionate about building higher quality, sustainable new homes that save families thousands of dollars a year on energy bills.

A graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi, Bart goes beyond building homes to building stronger communities. Braselton Homes is involved with numerous charities, including CASA of the Coastal Bend, American Heart Association and Food Bank of Corpus Christi. Currently, Bart serves on the Board of the Chamber of Commerce, the Community Development Corporation and and the CC Jobs and Business Development Board. Bart and his wife Michelle have five children and are active church members at Church Unlimited.

(361) 991-4710 5337 Yorktown Blvd. Corpus Christi Braseltonhomes.com

60 the bend magazine

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Commercial Real Estate Mr. Tray Bates Tray Bates, CCIM, SIOR, CIPS, principal of Bates Commercial LLC, operates a commercial real estate company offering the best in professionalism, experience, and service for its clients and the real estate community in South Texas. Since 1993, Bates has been in the Texas commercial real estate market which includes other major cities aside from Corpus Christi. As a third generation commercial real estate practitioner, Bates has the work ethic and pursuit to serve clients from his father, William G. “Bill” Bates, SIOR, a Corpus Christi real estate broker who practiced for more than 35 years.

Bill helped to establish the Corpus Christi Botanical Gardens and is most remembered as an ambassador for Corpus Christi. Also in the lineage is W.L. Bates, SIOR, Bates’ grand father, who worked in real estate in Corpus Christi for over 50 years! W.L. was a major influence in establishing Corpus Christi and the Coastal Bend region as a modern industrial center. The legend lives on in Bates who aspires every day to do what those before him have done: put his stamp on South Texas, provide expert knowledge of the real estate market with current and in-depth knowledge of the financial practices necessary in today’s sophisticated economy. Better yet, Bates Commercial LLC offers good working relationships with governmental entities.

361.434.0036 2820 S. Padre Island Dr, Ste 170 Corpus Christi Tray@batescommerical.com

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FACES of The

Coastal Bend

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The Face of

Construction & Mortgage Lending 1st Community Bank Home Loan Center For Building, Buying or Refinancing a Home, First Community Bank is the Trusted Choice

Left to right: Joe Ingle, Melba Carrales, Nick Black, Susan Geissel, Karen Stipp, Lesa Garcia, Ladder: Jessica Rios A home is a tremendous investment -- whether you are buying a first house, building your dream home, acquiring a second residence or refinancing your existing home.

First Community Bank has been voted “Best of the Best in Mortgage Lending” in the Corpus Christi Caller Times readers poll for seven consecutive years. Why? Because we make buying a home as simple as possible, and South Texans trust us.

Our free pre-qualification is a great start, allowing buyers to understand the amount of home mortgage they can be approved for, which in turn helps them make important choices as they begin their home search.

For those who want to build, we have video tutorials and step-by-step guidance through the building process…unlocking the mysteries of construction loans and permanent mortgages, interest rates and closing costs. While “foundation to finish” is an everyday job for professional homebuilders, it can be intimidating for the consumer who’s about to choose a neighborhood, lot, floorplan, energy-efficient options and other details. So we stay involved in your building project along the way.

Finally, First Community Bank’s in-house approval, processing and underwriting provide the confidence of working face to face with a local lender – not long distance.

Our loan officers have years of experience helping buyers navigate the process of choosing and getting the loan that meets their needs.

From the first step to the door step, and whether you’re building, buying or refinancing, First Community Bank is the “Best of the Best” choice. Call or visit our Home Loan Center and let’s get started!

First Community Bank is an equal-opportunity housing lender. Member FDIC

(361) 993-9703 www.fcbot.com

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Home Remodeling Alpha & Omega Siding & Windows, LLC Welcome to Alpha & Omega Siding and Windows, LLC

Do you feel like your home, office, or business needs a facelift? Do you feel like the idea of a remodel is just too tedious to take on?

Do you feel like you just can’t find the right contractor to suit your needs? Well look no further! Alpha & Omega Siding & Windows, LLC is the company to trust with every facet of your remodel project. They provide full service remodeling and repairs. They cover everything from your roof down to your driveway and everything in between. Their services include roofing, siding, windows, driveways, sunrooms, patios, decks, drywall, interior & exterior paint, tile, and much more! Not only will they make your property more aesthetically pleasing but they will make it more energy efficient.

Make Alpha & Omega Siding & Windows, LLC the beginning and end to your remodeling needs. They are a local family owned and operated business who work hard to ensure their pricing is excellent and their employees are experienced, reliable, and professional. They know what your home, office, or business means to you, let them help you give it the TLC it needs. As Manuel from Alpha Omega says, “whatever your remodeling needs may be, We’ve Gotcha’ Covered!” Call for a free consultation today!

361.510.6181 5715 Christine St. Corpus Christi alphaomegasiding.com

64 the bend magazine

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Cosmetic Dentistry Chad allen, dds, ms

Dr. Allen is a third generation Corpus Christi dentist. His specialty training in Prosthodontics establishes him as one of the best for replacing teeth with crowns, implants or veneers.

Having studied as far as Switzerland with the top minds in implant and restorative dentistry, he is excited to offer worldclass care to his hometown of Corpus Christi.

It’s more than his education that makes him the face of dentistry in the Coastal Bend. Dr. Allen enjoys giving back to his community through The William Allen Dental Clinic, an extension of Timmon’s Ministries. Since it’s establishment in 2009, volunteer dentists have treated over 3,000 patients throughout the Coastal Bend.

361.854.7999 525 Doddridge Corpus Christi drchadallen.com

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Staffing Services Sharon Kollaja, CPA Welcome to the Staffing Agency of Sterling Personnel, Inc.

Sharon Kollaja is the Owner and President of Sterling Personnel, Inc. and an active participant in the Corpus Christi business community. After acquiring Sterling in 2004, Sharon’s leadership has resulted in the substantial growth of the company, as well as the placement of thousands of workers in jobs throughout the Texas Gulf Coast. Sharon is known for her integrity and effectiveness in business, as well as her dedicated commitment to making a difference in our community.

Sterling Personnel is a full-service staffing agency committed to matching qualified job seekers with employers all along the Texas Gulf Coast. Sterling provides the best employers with professional, reliable, and efficient staffing solutions to increase productivity and profits. Sterling’s staffing coordinators are certified Staffing Professionals by the American Staffing Association and specialize in connecting job seekers to the right position to fit their skills and talents.

This year, Sharon will expand her reach in the field of Human Resources with the creation of Sterling HR, a Professional Employment Organization(PEO). Sterling HR is dedicated to linking their expertise in the areas of Human Resources, Payroll, Benefits, and Workers’ Compensation with Texas businesses’ need to create a comprehensive Human Resources solution.

361.854.5151 3833 S Staples St Ste N103 Corpus Christi SterlingHires.com

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FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Cosmetic Surgery Keith Rose, M.D. Welcome to Rose Cosmetic Surgery center

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

Dr. Rose is an internationally recognized surgeon who has performed over 2500 plastic and reconstructive surgeries and trained numerous surgeons around the world on three different continents. Working with organizations like CURE International and SMILE TRAIN feeds his passion for plastic surgery along with his private practice. Corpus Christi is incredibly blessed to have Dr. Rose, his surgery center, and his philanthropic efforts.

361.651.1200

5025 Deepwood Cir Corpus Christi

rosecosmeticsurgery.com

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The FaceS of

Orthopaedics

- Hip & Knee Replacement Justin Klimisch, M.D. Justin Klimisch, M.D., is the first surgeon in Corpus Christi to use Blue Belt Technologies’ advanced, robotics-assisted NavioŽ Surgical System. The system helps achieve accurate and precise results through CT-free registration, patient-specific planning, and robotics-assisted bone preparation.

Dr. Justin Klimisch is board certified and earned his doctorate of medicine from UTMB School of Medicine. He remained at UT Medical Branch, completing his internship and residency in orthopaedic surgery. Later, Dr. Klimisch completed an accredited fellowship in Adult Reconstruction and Joint Replacement surgery at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. Dr. Klimisch serves as the Medical Director of Disease Specific Care Certification for Hip and Knee Replacement at Doctors Regional, where he also serves as Chief of Surgery. He stays at the forefront of the latest technological advances as a consulting surgeon, and trains other surgeons from around the nation in the latest evidence based hip and knee surgery techniques. He specializes in computer navigated and robotic surgery.

361.854.0811 601 Texan Trail | Suite 300 | Corpus Christi SouthTexasBoneAndJoint.com

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FACES 2015 The FaceS of

Orthopaedics - Spine Surgery

John P. Masciale, M.D. & John M. Borkowski, M.D. John P. Masciale, M.D. and John M. Borkowski, M.D. have been treating men and women afflicted with spinal disorders for over 38 years in their combined private practices. Spinal health is literally the backbone and foundation for musculoskeletal function and quality of life. Although our passion is to intervene with corrective surgical intervention done with the highest level of expertise, we strongly adhere to the principles of prudent non-surgical care and conservative measures whenever possible to resolve issues with pain and compromised function. We are backed up in every sense by outstanding staff and hospital systems to effect the highest level of care possible for our community. We are blessed with other associates at South Texas Bone and Joint who sub-specialize in other areas of the orthopedic realm such that the totality of orthopedic intervention can be brought to bear on musculoskeletal disease to help ensure the best outcome and treatments for our patients for years to come.

361.854.0811 601 Texan Trail | Suite 300 | Corpus Christi SouthTexasBoneAndJoint.com

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend The Face of

Banquets and Catering Ms. Chela Retta Welcome to the home of an unforgetable event

For over twenty years Chela Retta’s focus has been on the costumer. From her first WaterStreet position as a hostess in 1994 to her current role as Director of Banquets & Catering, Chela encompasses the “WaterStreet Way” of customer service. “It starts with building a relationship – a longstanding relationship with any client. We take pride in catering multiple special events for the same client.”

No one event is more important than another. And like so many monumental events and occasions, good food and great service always become the centerpiece.

“We know there is a level of service and quality of food that our diners expect. We have transitioned that into our banquet and catering service. The special touch that WaterStreet brings to any dining experience is what we bring to our events.”

From corporate meetings to weddings, host an event worth remembering with Banquets & Catering by WaterStreet.

361.882.8696 309B N WATER ST Corpus Christi BANQUETS@WATERSTREETRESTAURANTS.com

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

John is passionate about understanding our local climate and creating landscapes that thrive in it. He spends his off time testing palms, yuccas and other draught tolerant plants in our native soils, against straight-line winds and salt spray on his 30-acre mini botanical garden. Clients love the opportunity to see the plants first-hand and find it helpful to see the plants in their maturity.

The expertise and service at McNamee goes beyond design and plants. John is proud to offer the Coastal Bend one of the largest selections of stone and boulders in the region, providing installation of stone patios, walkways, fireplaces and fire pits.

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

Today, John serves on the Board of Directors for the South Texas Botanical Gardens and has enjoyed working on major landscaping projects, such as, The Shops at La Palmera and the Plains Capital Bank building on Shoreline.

(361) 438-8281 | 160 U.S. 181 Taft, TX 78390 mcnameelandscapesandnursery.com

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Coastal Bend

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Island Real Estate coastline properties meet the experts that make up Coastline Properties

For twenty years, Coastline Properties has welcomed buyers, sellers and renters into the homey and neighborly family that owner Cheri Sperling has fostered. Geographically and economically, a lot has changed over the past two decades, but Coastline Properties commitment to service has always been the top priority. All members of the team will go above and beyond to make each and every client as comfortable and as informed as possible. For a smooth experience from start to finish, 361.949.0101

Coastline Properties will be your power source, your advocate, your eyes and your ears. Each Real Estate Agent and the Property Management Team has the knowledge, charisma, and vigor to get the job done, and get it done right. Search no further, let Coastline Properties be your specialist for the Corpus Christi, Padre Island & Coastal Bend Real Estate Marketplace. Their performance will move you! Come Coast Awhile‌

14717 South Padre Island Drive

coastline-properties.com

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2015

The Face of

Luxury HomeS Real Estate

FACES of The

Zoe Gottlich

Coastal Bend

Welcome to the HOME of Coldwell Banker Pacesetter Steel Realtors

Zoe Gottlich is the #1 top producer for the last six consecutive years at Coldwell Banker Pacesetter Steel.

She holds a BS degree in Economics and is a member of the International President’s Circle with Coldwell Banker, which is the top 6% of all agents worldwide.

Zoe and her husband Mark are third generation Corpus Christians and live in Zoe’s childhood home, which her parents built in 1947. They have 2 children in their mid-20’s, Grier and Cecile.

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

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

Photo taken in home of Glenda and Jerry Kane 35 Hewitt, currently listed for $2,950,000.

361.813.9460 5034 Holly Rd Corpus Christi Zoe.gottlich@coldwellbanker.com gotzoe.com

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㈀ ㄀㔀

2015

䘀䄀䌀䔀匀 伀䘀

FACES of

吀䠀䔀

Coastal Bend

The

䌀伀䄀匀吀䄀䰀 䈀䔀一䐀 吀䠀䔀 䘀䄀䌀䔀匀 伀䘀

刀䄀䐀䤀伀䰀伀䜀夀

The Faces of

Radiology For more than 70 years, Radiology Associates has been the provider of choice to our Coastal Bend patients.

渀最 琀漀 䘀漀爀 洀漀爀攀 琀栀愀渀 㜀 礀攀愀爀猀Ⰰ 刀愀搀椀漀氀漀最礀 䄀猀猀漀挀椀愀琀攀猀 栀愀猀 漀昀昀攀爀攀搀 愀搀瘀愀渀挀攀搀 搀椀愀最渀漀猀琀椀挀 椀洀愀最椀渀最 琀漀 Experience – Our Board-Certified Radiologists have the experience 猀 愀渀搀 漀甀爀 瀀愀琀椀攀渀琀猀 椀渀 琀栀攀 䌀漀愀猀琀愀氀 䈀攀渀搀⸀ 伀甀爀 漀渀ⴀ猀椀琀攀 爀愀搀椀漀氀漀最椀猀琀猀 洀愀渀愀最攀 礀漀甀爀 椀洀愀最椀渀最 攀砀愀洀猀 and愀渀搀 fellowship training needed to provide the dependable and accurate 愀渀搀 椀渀琀攀爀瀀爀攀琀 琀栀攀 爀攀猀甀氀琀猀 眀栀椀氀攀 眀漀爀欀椀渀最 椀渀 挀漀渀樀甀渀挀琀椀漀渀 眀椀琀栀 礀漀甀爀 瀀栀礀猀椀挀椀愀渀 琀漀 瀀爀漀瘀椀搀攀 礀漀甀 愀渀搀 reads required by our patients and their referring physicians. 礀漀甀爀 昀愀洀椀氀礀 眀椀琀栀 攀砀挀攀瀀琀椀漀渀愀氀Ⰰ 瀀攀爀猀漀渀愀氀椀稀攀搀 栀攀愀氀琀栀挀愀爀攀⸀ Quality – At Radiology, we strive to stay at the forefront of the industry 攀渀琀 伀甀爀 搀椀瘀攀爀猀攀Ⰰ 戀漀愀爀搀ⴀ挀攀爀琀椀昀椀攀搀 爀愀搀椀漀氀漀最椀猀琀猀 漀昀昀攀爀 愀 眀椀搀攀 瘀愀爀椀攀琀礀 漀昀 猀琀愀琀攀ⴀ漀昀ⴀ琀栀攀ⴀ愀爀琀 漀甀琀瀀愀琀椀攀渀琀 by investing in state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. Soon, we will 攀砀愀洀猀 椀渀挀氀甀搀椀渀最 洀甀猀挀甀氀漀猀欀攀氀攀琀愀氀Ⰰ 渀攀甀爀漀爀愀搀椀漀氀漀最礀Ⰰ 眀漀洀攀渀ᤠ猀 椀洀愀最椀渀最Ⰰ 愀渀搀 渀甀挀氀攀愀爀 be the first provider in Corpus Christi to offer 3T MRI, offering fast, 攀猀 high resolution images in a large-bore platform that will be especially 洀攀搀椀挀椀渀攀⼀倀⸀䔀⸀吀⸀ 甀猀椀渀最 琀栀攀 氀愀琀攀猀琀 猀琀愀琀攀ⴀ漀昀ⴀ琀栀攀ⴀ愀爀琀 攀焀甀椀瀀洀攀渀琀⸀ 匀漀漀渀Ⰰ 刀愀搀椀漀氀漀最礀 䄀猀猀漀挀椀愀琀攀猀 洀攀搀椀挀椀渀攀⼀ appreciated by large or claustrophobic patients. 椀猀攀猀 眀椀氀氀 戀攀 琀栀攀 昀椀爀猀琀 瀀爀漀瘀椀搀攀爀 椀渀 琀栀攀 䌀漀愀猀琀愀氀 䈀攀渀搀 琀漀 漀昀昀攀爀 ㌀吀 䴀刀䤀Ⰰ 愀 琀攀挀栀渀漀氀漀最礀 琀栀愀琀 瀀爀漀洀椀猀攀猀 琀漀 戀爀椀渀最 昀愀猀琀攀爀 愀渀搀 洀漀爀攀 瀀爀攀挀椀猀攀 椀洀愀最椀渀最⸀ Comfort – Our Imaging Centers are designed to make your imaging experience safe, comfortable and efficient. Patient-friendly features 䄀猀 琀栀攀 昀椀爀猀琀 愀渀搀 洀漀猀琀 攀砀瀀攀爀椀攀渀挀攀搀 瀀爀漀瘀椀搀攀爀 漀昀 ㌀䐀 洀愀洀洀漀最爀愀洀猀Ⰰ 刀愀搀椀漀氀漀最礀 䄀猀猀漀挀椀愀琀攀猀ᤠ 猀ᤠ such 圀漀洀攀渀ᤠ猀 䤀洀愀最椀渀最 䐀攀瀀愀爀琀洀攀渀琀 椀猀 栀漀洀攀 琀漀 猀椀砀 爀愀搀椀漀氀漀最椀猀琀猀 眀栀漀 猀瀀攀挀椀愀氀椀稀攀 攀砀挀氀甀猀椀瘀攀氀礀 椀渀 as our fast high-quality machines, patient concierges, and the 椀渀 warm robes our mammography patients appreciate, show the care we 眀漀洀攀渀ᤠ猀 栀攀愀氀琀栀Ⰰ 椀渀琀攀爀瀀爀攀琀椀渀最 洀漀爀攀 琀栀愀渀 ㌀ Ⰰ 洀愀洀洀漀最爀愀洀猀 攀愀挀栀 礀攀愀爀⸀ 圀愀爀洀 琀攀爀爀礀 挀氀漀琀栀 挀氀漀琀栀 take to make your visit to Radiology Associates pleasant. 爀漀戀攀猀 愀渀搀 昀攀洀愀氀攀 琀攀挀栀渀漀氀漀最椀猀琀猀 洀愀欀攀 礀漀甀爀 攀砀愀洀 洀漀爀攀 挀漀洀昀漀爀琀愀戀氀攀⸀

礀漀甀 搀

渀最

攀 搀愀礀⸀

琀漀 琀⸀

Convenience – With 5 imaging centers through the Coastal Bend, we 䄀琀 刀愀搀椀漀氀漀最礀 䄀猀猀漀挀椀愀琀攀猀Ⰰ 礀漀甀 眀椀氀氀 渀漀琀 戀攀 琀愀欀攀渀 昀漀爀 最爀愀渀琀攀搀⸀ 伀甀爀 洀椀猀猀椀漀渀 椀猀 琀漀 攀渀猀甀爀攀 礀漀甀 are close to our patients and their referring physicians. Offering quick 愀爀攀 琀爀攀愀琀攀搀 眀椀琀栀 琀栀攀 甀琀洀漀猀琀 爀攀猀瀀攀挀琀Ⰰ 挀漀洀瀀愀猀猀椀漀渀 愀渀搀 挀愀爀攀 昀爀漀洀 愀氀氀 漀昀 漀甀爀 瀀栀礀猀椀挀椀愀渀猀 scheduling 愀渀搀 and fast report turnaround, Radiology Associates will strive 栀攀愀氀琀栀 瀀爀漀昀攀猀猀椀漀渀愀氀猀⸀ to help you and your physician receive the answers you deserve quickly and efficiently. Our new patient portal offers self-registration and 䤀渀 愀搀搀椀琀椀漀渀Ⰰ 刀愀搀椀漀氀漀最礀 䄀猀猀漀挀椀愀琀攀猀 琀愀欀攀猀 漀甀爀 瀀愀琀椀攀渀琀ᤠ猀 戀甀猀礀 氀椀昀攀猀琀礀氀攀 椀渀琀漀 愀挀挀漀甀渀琀 漀昀昀攀爀椀渀最 check-in features to make your visit even faster. 猀愀洀攀 搀愀礀Ⰰ 戀攀昀漀爀攀 愀渀搀 愀昀琀攀爀 栀漀甀爀猀 愀瀀瀀漀椀渀琀洀攀渀琀猀 ⴀ 愀渀搀 攀瘀攀渀 匀愀琀甀爀搀愀礀猀 愀琀 猀漀洀攀 挀攀渀琀攀爀猀⸀ 䴀漀爀攀漀瘀攀爀Ⰰ 爀攀瀀漀爀琀椀渀最 戀愀挀欀 琀漀 琀栀攀 爀攀昀攀爀爀椀渀最 瀀栀礀猀椀挀椀愀渀 椀猀 搀漀渀攀Ⰰ 椀渀 洀漀猀琀 挀愀猀攀猀Ⰰ 漀渀 琀栀攀 猀愀洀攀 搀愀礀⸀

xraydocs.com | 361.887.7000 | 5 locations:

伀甀爀 瀀愀琀椀攀渀琀猀 挀愀渀 渀漀眀 瀀爀攀ⴀ爀攀最椀猀琀攀爀 戀攀昀漀爀攀 琀栀攀椀爀 攀砀愀洀猀 愀渀搀 挀漀渀昀椀爀洀 琀栀攀椀爀 愀瀀瀀漀椀渀琀洀攀渀琀1521 S. Staples STE 104, 301, 304 Corpus Christi 5742 Spohn Dr Corpus Christi 漀渀ⴀ氀椀渀攀Ⰰ 洀愀欀椀渀最 礀漀甀爀 愀挀琀甀愀氀 挀栀攀挀欀 椀渀 焀甀椀挀欀 愀渀搀 攀愀猀礀⸀ 琀漀 攀愀猀 䤀渀 愀搀搀椀琀椀漀渀Ⰰ 漀甀爀 瀀愀琀椀攀渀琀猀 愀爀攀 愀戀氀攀 3929 River East Dr Corpus Christi 爀攀挀攀椀瘀攀 琀栀攀椀爀 攀砀愀洀 爀攀瀀漀爀琀猀 愀渀搀 椀洀愀最攀猀 漀渀 琀栀攀椀爀 瘀攀爀礀 漀眀渀 漀渀ⴀ氀椀渀攀 瀀愀琀椀攀渀琀 瀀漀爀琀愀氀 愀挀挀漀甀渀琀⸀ 1776 Billy G. Webb Dr Portland

2000 Dr N.W. Atkinson Blvd Ste 801 Alice

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Faces of

Pest & Termite Control GREG & Gregory AGUIRRE

Welcome to the home of Elite Exterminating, Inc

Pests and termites are just part of living in South Texas. But South Texans have a strong ally against pests. Elite Exterminating has been protecting South Texas families and homes for 25 years. Elite was founded in 1990 by retired United States Army and Vietnam Veteran Greg Aguirre, who came home to Texas after a long career in the military. He continued his mission of homeland defense but this time against disease carrying pests and wood destroying insects that cost businesses and homeowners billions in damages annually. Elite Exterminating is family owned and operated and now in its second generation, Gregory Aguirre, affectionately known by long-time customers as “Little Greg” now leads the team of experts as the company’s Entomologist. With the knowledge and certification to take Elite Exterminating into the future with the latest in innovative techniques and scientific products the bugs don’t stand a chance! But the foundation of Elite’s greatness is still based on the philosophy of its founder.

These basic principles are to employ those with a strong work ethic and to teach honest and dependable practices with a genuine desire to provide excellence in customer service.

361.853.8370

2101 Saratoga Corpus Christi

elitebugkillers.com

76 the bend magazine

Elite@EliteBugKillers.com

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2015

The Face of

Sports Medicine

FACES of The

Dr. Rob S. Williams

Coastal Bend

A native of Fort Worth, Texas, Dr. Williams is a board-certified, fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon. After graduating from Texas Tech, he earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Dr. Williams then completed not only an Orthopedic Surgery Residency, but an additional year of Fellowship Training in Spine Surgery at the prestigious Campbell Clinic. He continued his education by completing the additional requirements for subspecialty certification in Orthopedic Sports Medicine in 2009.

Dr. Williams has practiced orthopedic surgery and sports medicine in Corpus Christi since 1998. He focuses on providing minimally invasive arthroscopic surgical techniques individualized to get the athlete off the training table and back onto the field. Dr. Williams is dedicated to creating a shared-decision experience in the office and surgery suite.

Dr. Williams provides sports medicine services for all athletes, young to mature, including professional, collegiate and high school athletes. For the past 12 years he has served as team doctor for the Flour Bluff Hornets. In addition to providing game coverage, he donated an automatic external defibrillator (AED) and ImPACT Testing and Computerized Neurocognitive Assessment software to the school’s athletic program. Previously, he has worked ringside for MMA and boxing events. He evaluates and treats patients for most sports injuries including shoulder dislocations, ACL tears and fractures. Under his guidance, athletes are able to return to play quickly and safely.

In his spare time, Dr. Williams appreciates spending time with his wife, Mel, and daughter, Isabella.

He enjoys being outside golfing and fishing, and of course, he is an avid football fan.

361.994.1166 5920 Saratoga Blvd, 600A www.coastalorthoteam.com

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Family-Friendly New Homes Hogan Homes (left to right) MRS. Angela Long, VP Sales and Marketing MR. Trey Summers, VP Project Development MR. Steven Emerson, VP Construction Operations Over the past 50 years of building quality family homes, there have been many faces who have contributed greatly to the Hogan Homes we all know and love today. Working with the best people in the business, Hogan Homes has continued to develop award-winning communities across the coastal bend, providing selective buyers with homes that are more comfortable, energy efficient, of higher quality and in neighborhoods that hold their value.

With new ideas and leadership, Angela, Trey and Steven show great vision for innovative designs, 361.443.0440

keeping the needs of families at the heart of each new home. They understand that the single most important thing to a family is time. It is this idea that inspires the creation of well-organized spaces for managing the every day as well as the best possible environments for raising a family.

Together, the Hogan Homes team has brought to market multiple new neighborhoods, four new model homes, a revamped website at hoganhomestexas.com, and great sales promotions making it easier than ever for families to purchase a new home.

hoganhomestexas.com

angela@hoganhomestexas.com 78 the bend magazine

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Photo: Jason Page

2015

The Face of

Foundation Repairs

FACES of The

Mr. Eddie Aguilera Mammoth Foundation is built on Excellence. Both figuratively and literally, their foundation repair work is excellent. The foundation of your home will give it longevity, reliability, and soundness. At Mammoth Foundation, they know that doing the work correctly and by a qualified and trained professional is the only way to give your home the future it deserves. As a foundation contractor, they will be certain to turn your vision into your reality. Peace of mind is everything, and with Mammoth

Foundation, you’ll know your home is built on solid foundation by the company with the greatest reputation in the Coastal Bend. Always striving to deliver world-class solutions alongside quality workmanship so clients are confident in the fantastic foundation repair and installation they’ve received. If you are trying to find someone decent and reliable who can provide you with an effective and lasting solution, the choice is simple!

Coastal Bend

361.876.2722 3412 FM 665 Corpus Christi mammothstrong.com

Photo: Rachel Durrent

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Fine Home FurnishingS Buddy Walker Home Furnishings Welcome to the HOME of Buddy Walker Home Furnishings

What makes a house a home? Fine furnishings certainly help, and that’s exactly what Buddy Walker Home Furnishings has to offer. As a family owned and operated business for over 45 years, they have pride in quality products and a high standard of service. A qualified staff stands behind their full design services and interior decorators to ensure your home becomes the one you’ve always dreamt of. For those visual shoppers, they’re able to create a fun, life-like sketch with the desired furnishings to 361.857.2263

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

4434 SPID Corpus Christi

buddywalker.net

80 the bend magazine

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Business Technology Douglass Miller Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Douglass received a BS in Computer Science from Texas A&M - Corpus Christi before founding Straight Edge Technology in 2006. While consulting for the Whataburger Corporate Office, Douglass was able to take some of the ideas and concepts from big organization technology and bring it down to a level that caters to smaller companies.

For nearly a decade, Douglass has made it his goal to take away the pain and headache that technology brings to businesses. However, Douglass’ passion goes far beyond general IT support, he cares about helping businesses utilize the right technology tools to increase efficiency and profitability. Douglass acts as a technology consultant. He sits down with each client to discover the problems before they occur, and develops a specific IT solution for each client. For Douglass, IT support is more than sitting around until something breaks, it’s about building a relationship, being proactive, and helping businesses get the most out of their technology.

Straight Edge Technology services all types of businesses in South Texas, but specializes in Healthcare related industries. Their managed services model gives companies access to, not one, but eight engineers on staff. Each engineer offers a unique expertise and is ready to assist on a moments notice.

Technology is always changing and becoming more critical each day.

However, IT support does not have to be frustrating or time consuming.

Douglass hopes to make everyone’s life easier and change the way businesses think about IT support in the Coastal Bend. Straight Edge Technology is active in the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce and currently donates time and services to our local Habitat for Humanity chapter.

(361) 653-1777 5151 Flynn Parkway Ste. 217, TX 78411 www.straightedgetech.com

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2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

The Face of

Orthodontics Roxanne Robertson, DDS, MS A smile is a curve that sets everything straight. A beautiful smile elicits confidence and is infectious, and at Star Orthodontics, they know this is priceless.

Committed to providing patients with the most desired results, their team of talented orthodontists (Drs. Roxanne Robertson, Colin Mihalik, Stephan Ramsay and Troy Jolley) work together to create the most beautiful and pleasing smiles. The team specializes in helping children, teens and adults achieve admirable and healthy smiles using customized orthodontic care. Offering a full range of braces to fit each patients’ lifestyles and needs include traditional metal braces, clear braces, gold braces and InvisalignŽ as they understand each patient has different needs and different treatment plan ideals. At this state-of-the-art facility, the unique environment is equipped with the most advanced technology available, and their lab is in house! Brace yourself, as this highly-skilled team will make you feel right at home.

361.992.2483 4750 SPID Ste 101 Corpus Christi starbraces.com

82 the bend magazine

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The Face of

Quality Used Cars and Service the taggart group Who says you can’t have quality AND quantity? The Taggart Group, locally owned and operated, is where you can find both. They have the incredible reputation of handling quality vehicles at fair prices and providing great service after the sale. At The Taggart Group, customers can expect quality facilities with an unbeatable inventory for a more than pleasant buying experience. This, along with the mission to provide the best possible vehicles and service at the best possible price, will never change.

2015

FACES of The

Coastal Bend

Taggart provides the service of carrying a quality inventory of used vehicles that have been thoroughly inspected and ready to meet customers’ transportation needs. All prices, mileage, book Values and CarFax reports are posted for customer shopping convenience. The Taggart Team wants the customer to know as much as the team does about a car - making car buying a simple and pleasant experience. Cars are backed with warranties which, coupled with their purchasing and inspection processes, is their way of taking the risk out of buying a used car.

Used cars are a great value when you buy a quality car that has been taken care of, and Taggart truly believes that their job is to make sure you get just that. Nearly all of the cars are certified, and the team is more than happy to arrange financing; Taggart offers some of the most competitive terms available.

But what takes them to the top is their close attention to service. They offer a full vehicle service center at each location to help with all maintenance and repair needs regardless of where you purchased your car. “I want to take great care of my employees so they can take great care of my customers. If we can accomplish that, the business takes care of itself,” says Nathan Taggart. The Taggart Group – Where Quality Counts!

361-643-6900 | 1609 Hwy 181 Portland 361-853-0796 | 6226 SPID Corpus christi TheTaggartGroup.com

Management Team Pictured: Rick - Sales Corpus Christi | Melissa - Service Corpus Christi | Will - Service Portland | Pat - Sales Portland | Nathan Taggart - Owner

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Until Proven Innocent: The Hannah Overton Story

Prison Ministry Born from Mother’s Wrongful Conviction In 2007, Hannah Overton was falsely convicted of capital murder and spent 7 years in prison before the charges were officially dropped in April, 2015. Because of her faith, she used her situation as an opportunity to help the other inmates. Recently she started Syndeo Ministries (*Syndeo: Bound with us) to offer mentors, bible studies, pen pals, Christmas cards, and a home and camp for the children of inmates.

WORDS: Sharla Wilkins PHOTOS: Rachel Durrent

“It was the worst nightmare anyone could ever experience.”

annah Overton, wrongly convicted in 2007 of murdering her foster child, spent seven years in prison in the Dr. Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas, before her conviction was overturned. “It was the worst nightmare anybody could ever experience,” the mother of five says.

Overton, whose family was blessed with immense support from their church, the community, and other churches, saw inmates devoid of the familial interactions she treasured in prison. “It’s really hard. You’re taken away from everything that you love and know, and you’re placed in a situation where you don’t have a whole lot. You have to live under conditions that are just whatever they are for the day,” explains Overton.

Prison is “nothing like what you see on TV,” states Overton. Prisons in Texas provide basics for inmates; everything else must be purchased.

Each inmate is supplied with five bars of lye soap, “like hotel bars,” explains Overton, and one roll of toilet paper weekly. Feminine products, along with a toothbrush and baking soda in lieu of toothpaste, are given.

All other personal items, including deodorant, paper and stamps, must be bought from the commissary.

Those without money are at a loss for keeping in touch with family. “That is, by far, the hardest thing. They feel left and forgotten,” says Overton.

With “one phone call for twenty minutes cost[ing]five dollars,” she explains, it can be difficult for many inmates to maintain a connection with the outside world.

“I see that so many good things have happened out of this and so many lives have been changed for eternity that I see that God has good plans, all the time, and he carried us through every step of the way.”

“One thing that is really common, is due to the fact that they feel so forgotten and left, they feel like they don’t have hope, so they don’t have any reason to try to get any better, to try to change anything in their life,” says Overton. Desiring to lift the spirits of friends in prison, Overton started a Bible study. The first study focused on past hurts, and was so 86 the bend magazine

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

Timeline: October 3, 2006

Foster child Andrew passes away from salt intoxication.

October 13, 2006

Larry and Hannah Overton are arrested for the murder of Andrew.

September 7, 2007

Hannah Overton is convicted of capital murder.

January 23, 2008

Hannah Overton is sent to prison at the Dr. Lane Murray Unit in Gatesville, Texas.

September 16, 2014

Hannah Overton’s conviction is overturned.

December 16, 2014

Hannah Overton is released from prison and returns home.

April 8, 2015

All charges against Hannah Overton are dropped.

successful others asked to join. “You can talk about [rehabilitation] all day long, you can have these programs to try to conform, but real transformation is in your heart and unless there’s change on the inside there’s not going to be any change long-term change. We started doing the studies and started watching lives change and it just kept on growing,” says Overton.

A friend of Overton’s began mailing Christmas cards to the inmates involved in the Bible study. The women were deeply touched to be the recipient of a card. For some, it was the only correspondence they received the entire year.

This outreach carried over to each holiday, and others at the church joined in.

Desiring to continue ministering to the prisoners after her release, Overton and her husband founded a Christian Outreach program, Syndeo Ministries in June to help the inmates “be an asset to society,” explains Overton.

Continue to remember those in prison as if you were together with them in prison: Hebrews 13:3. Operating strictly from donations, the ministry still maintains Bible studies in the prison. Volunteers, who hail from around the country and Canada, send cards every holiday. The ministry distributes gifts at Christmas and provides mentorship though a pen pal for each inmate involved in the Bible study. The website sells cards and bracelets to finance these services. Cards can be purchased for personal use, or individual cards can be sent to an inmate. The purchase of a bracelet results in an inmate receiving a bookmark and invitation to the current Bible study being held in the prison.

Relatives of those incarcerated also need support, and Larry Overton knows well the hurt and struggle of families of prisoners. Children of female inmates deal with having their mothers taken away, and there is a stigma from having a parent in prison. He looks forward to having the opportunity to minister to them, as well as the prisoners. “We’re excited to see what God is going to do with this. It’s been such a long road for us,” he says.

www.syndeoministries.com Facebook: syndeoministries Instagram & Twitter @SyndeoMinistry SyndeoMinistries@gmail.com

“We’re excited to see what God is going to do with this.

It’s been such a long road for us.”

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

MONIES in PRISON: Government Code: Subchapter A. General Welfare Provisions “Sec. 501.014.

INMATE MONEY. (a) The department shall take possession of all money that an inmate has on the inmate’s person or that is received with the inmate when the inmate arrives at a facility to be admitted to the custody of the department and all money the inmate receives at the department during confinement and shall credit the money to an account created for the inmate. The department may spend money from an inmate account on the written order of the inmate in whose name the account is established or as required by law or policy subject to restrictions on the expenditure established by law or policy.

The department shall ensure that each facility operated by or under contract with the department shall operate an account system that complies with this section, but the department is not required to operate a separate account system for or at each facility.”

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CELEBRATION SPONSORED BY:

CAMDEN PROPERTIES ACE AWARDS OMNI BAYFRONT HOTEL MARCH 2015

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Ladies and Gentlemen!

Step right up to this fun filled celebration!

90 the bend magazine

E

very year Camden Properties hosts the ACE awards for their corporate directors and employees. This event strives to reward and highlight the work of the Camden personnel with energetic videos and, of course, awards. Camden Properties hired Oh Goodie Designs + Events to design and plan the special day. Working closely with Laura Rios of Camden properties, the day was created.

The Omni Bayfront Hotel was the location for this fun filled atmosphere. As guests entered the hallway they were greeted by a ticket booth draped in bulb lights and green and blue (Camden’s signature colors) cotton candy in bags. The star employees were given a handmade picture magnet as well as a jar full of clown noses (glossy red gumballs) for their surprise.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

Create a Event!

lighting made for the perfect back drop to the cake topped with a gold lion and wrapped in red tickets.

A circus themed sweets table was at the ball room entrance. This table provided fun, sweet and salty snacks to take during breaks. Popcorn in vintage boxes, peanuts in parchment bags and circus cookies were all perfectly staged for the taking.

As guests entered the ballroom they stepped through red and golden satin drapes that were swept to the side and draped with more bulb lights and an array of tissue fans that hugged the corners and valance of the curtains.

Inside the ballroom the stage was set.

More dramatic golden curtains draped to frame red metal circus marquee letters that spelled CAMDEN. These bulb lit letters were the main attraction to the stage next to the star employees.

Golden elephants took their place with extra-large balloons and fun fringe as well.

Rich, golden satin linens covered the table that displayed the tiered cake and ring of fire cupcakes. The dramatic up

As the guests left the event, photos were taken in front of a wall of gold metallic streamers and ticket garlands.

Circus style photo props were a hit, especially the bar bell which weighed over 500 lbs!

Of course it was a perfect day for the circus to come to town. Congratulations to the Camden ACE award recipients and all their employees.

Specializing in Event Rentals: • • • • • • • • • •

Tents Tables & Chairs Linens LED Lighting Staging & Dance Floors China*Glassware*Flatware Catering Equipment Custom Props Draping Lounge Furniture

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For all your life Celebrations!

DRAPING & SPECIALTY LINENS Butler Signature Events VENUE, CATERING & ACCOMMODATIONS Omni Bayfront Hotel CAKE & CUPCAKES Sweet Rose Bakery LIGHTING DESIGN Dance Til Dawn Entertainment EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY Jason Page Photographry

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Boutique Showroom!

5826 Wooldridge Rd.

www.ButlerSignatureEvents.com

361.992.9813 thebendmag.com

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Our 8th Annual Christmas Spectacular Is More Dazzling Than Ever!

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O ne S to p g ! pi n Sh op

• One-of-a-kinds • Designer Arrangements AND MUCH, MUCH MORE!!!!!!!

Large Hand- Carved Carolers

Gifts for Everyone on Your List!

Many Beautiful Nativity Scene Designs 92 the bend magazine

Large Italian Hand-Carved Angels [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

One Stop Gift Shopping!

Necklaces, earrings, handbags, rings, watches and other fashion items.

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HOME & GARDEN OPEN HOUSE

CHIC BEACH COMMUNITY WORDS: Whitney Noble PHOTOS: Jason Page

Beachfront Community in Port Aransas is raising the bar for seaside communities.

Families and investors alike are flocking to own a piece of the pie in Palmilla Beach Club and Golf Course. The community is as high-end as the homes themselves.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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P

erfectly spaced rows of palm trees regally greet you as you enter the resort-style neighborhood surrounded by green, graceful slopes. Little black and white checkered flags marking tee holes and the soft roar of the gulf makes one wonder, is this real life?

Palmilla Beach Resort and Golf Club, designed by award-winning developers Bart Koontz and Red McCombs, offers all the best aspects of Coastal Bend

96 the bend magazine

living. Residents have their choice of long walks on the beach, beautiful views of the bay or improving their golf game on the Arnold Palmer signature golf course.

Preferred builder Thaxton Kypke built the home with incredible attention to detail. Located right along Sunrise Blvd., facing East overlooking the Gulf.

Listed at $1.1 million, Kypke’s home is equipped with all the finest amenities. It definitely glitters, from the glass backsplashes, to the strategically placed [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

Arnold Palmer himself quotes this project as an “enthusiasm I haven’t felt in a while.”

Take a virtual tour of the home courtesy of Jason Page Photography: https://youtu.be/fMgzNo-spUg

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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“Building a home of this magnitude has a million details. But then you’re done!”

- Kypke

mirrors, to the sparkling pool, to the shiny showers and sinks...to the sun shimmering off the gulf views!

“Building a home of this magnitude has a million details. But then you’re done!” jokes Kypke.

The cozy, chic interior was decorated and styled by Buddy Walker Home Furnishings. Buddy Walker was able to create a home that feels both coastal and classic, like “Old Florida,” as Kypke referred to it.

The living room and master bedroom open up to the courtyard, where a rectangular pool with three fountain-like jets trickle at the water’s edge and bring that peaceful serenity that one deserves at a beach home. No expense was spared, down to the carriage garage doors, Thermador Gas Range, drawer microwave, high impact doors and windows, and the ever-popular Mother-in-Law suite!

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Our Certified Stucco Home Inspectors are trained to see what other home inspectors don’t.

Our home inspector “saw“the potential problem during the home inspection (most inspectors would have missed it) & advised the buyer to have a certified stucco inspection.

The certified inspection confirmed there was a problem behind the stucco allowing the buyer to negotiate needed construction repairs into the sales contract.

Stucco and EIFS are very popular exterior finishes for homes in the coastal bend area. Unfortunately, Stucco and EIFS. (Exterior Insulated Finish System) are very good at hiding problems. The type of problems that can turn the home you’re planning to buy into a frightening money pit.

Every standard new home inspection from Signature includes the use of our Zip Level-Site Elevation Measurement System to verify the integrity of the homes foundation (the same tool used by foundation engineers) AND the use of our Infrared camera system to spot hidden moisture issues from plumbing or roofing problems. Don’t roll the dice when buying a house with stucco or EIFS siding. Have your home inspection done by the stucco/EIFS experts at Signature Inspection Services.

At Signature Inspection Services, we offer the most complete home inspection service packages available using the most advanced equipment. Our inspectors are fully trained in the pitfalls of stucco/EIFS and can offer complete, Certified Stucco/EIFS inspections.

Signature Inspection Services– The most complete home inspection service in the Coastal Bend.

INSPECTION SErvICES TREC License # 10330 Call Anytime 361-230-2312 www.signaturehomeinspectors.com

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LIVE WELL

ALZHEIMER’S 101 87, HOLIDAY NUTRITION 106

“The number one risk factor for Alzheimer’s is age.

It’s the only [leading cause of death] that doesn’t have a cure, doesn’t have a way to stop the progression or slow it.”

ALZHEIMER’S AWARENESS November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, which is an annual campaign started by President Ronald Reagan to increase awareness of the disease.

WORDS: Sharla Wilkins

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THE ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION’S 10 WAYS TO LOVE YOUR BRAIN:

Tips that may reduce the risk of cognitive decline: •

Break a sweat. Engage in regular cardiovascular exercise that elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to the brain and body. Several studies have found a correlation between physical activity and reduced risk of cognitive decline.

• Take the Purple Pledge! Wear purple, the official color of the Alzheimer’s movement. There are 47 million people worldwide who are living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. What is it, and how can we support it?

Hit the books. Formal education in any stage of life will help reduce your risk of cognitive decline and dementia.

For example, take a class at a local college, community center or online.

•

Butt out. Evidence shows that smoking increases risk of cognitive decline. Quitting smoking can reduce that risk to levels comparable to those who have not smoked.

osing a loved one is heartbreaking. Watching a loved one mentally lose themselves can bring on another level of devastation. This depressing fate befalls the families of over 5 million Americans who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, “…is a deadly brain disease. You can die from Alzheimer’s disease. You don’t die from dementia,” explains Meg J. Barron, Executive Director of the San Antonio and South Texas Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association.

•

Follow your heart. Evidence shows that risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke — obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes — negatively impact your cognitive health. Take care of your heart, and your brain just might follow.

•

Heads up! Brain injury can raise your risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Wear a seat belt, use a helmet when playing contact sports or riding a bike, and take steps to prevent falls.

•

Fuel up right. Eat a healthy and balanced diet that is lower in fat and higher in vegetables and fruit to help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Although research on diet and cognitive function is limited, certain diets, including Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may contribute to risk reduction.

•

Catch some Zzz’s. Not getting enough sleep due to conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea may result in problems with memory and thinking.

•

Take care of your mental health. Some studies link a history of depression with increased risk of cognitive decline, so seek medical treatment if you have symptoms of depression, anxiety or other mental health concerns.

Also, try to manage stress.

•

Buddy up. Staying socially engaged may support brain health. Pursue social activities that are meaningful to you.

Find ways to be part of your local community — if you love animals, consider volunteering at a local shelter. If you enjoy singing, join a local choir or help at an after-school program. Or, just share activities with friends and family.

•

Stump yourself. Challenge and activate your mind. Build a piece of furniture. Complete a jigsaw puzzle. Do something artistic. Play games, such as bridge, that make you think strategically. Challenging your mind may have short and long-term benefits for your brain.

L

While the cause of Alzheimer’s is unknown, there is a slight increased risk of developing the disease if it has been known to run in the family. Even so, “the number one risk factor for Alzheimer’s is age,” states Barron. This debilitating ailment destroys brain cells, causing the brain to physically shrink over time. The destruction slowly works its way from the frontal lobe, where most recent memories are stored, to the back of the brain. During mild Alzheimer’s, memory lapses may occur. Tasks might become more difficult, although patients may still function independently. Moderate Alzheimer’s is more noticeable and requires patient care. Patients are more confused and forgetful and may undergo personality or behavioral changes. Sleep patterns may shift. During the stage of severe Alzheimer’s, the area that controls breathing and eating is negatively affected. While the average person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s lives 8 years, it is possible to have Alzheimer’s for as long as 20 years.

But how can one tell if memory lapses are just that, or a warning sign of something more? “See a doctor. Get a diagnosis,” stresses Barron. Diagnosing Alzheimer’s is done via a thorough medical evaluation. “It needs to be diagnosed by a specialist,” such as a neurologist or geriatrician, explains Barron. While it might be frightening for some to approach their doctor with potential Alzheimer’s symptoms, another treatable ailment could be mimicking 102 the bend magazine

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the disease. Curable dementia, which can be brought on by depression, UTIs in the elderly, and other conditions, can present as Alzheimer’s symptoms. Those who are diagnosed early with Alzheimer’s have time to get their legal and financial affairs in order while their cognitive function is still intact.

10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Texas Alzheimer’s Statistics

Alzheimer’s is, “the only [leading cause of death] that does not have a cure, that doesn’t have a way to stop the 1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life. progression or slow it,” says Barron. The FDA-approved 2. Challenges in planning or solving problems. drugs currently available for Alzheimer’s patients help treat some of the characteristics of the disease for about Difficultyand completing tasks home, Over 5 million Americans are living with3.

Alzheimer’s, as many asfamiliar 16 million willathave the half of sufferers for approximately 6-12 months. Clinical at work or at leisure. disease in 2050. cost of caring studies seek to find aThe treatment for for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias is estimated 4. Confusion with time or place.

“Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s, close toin400 drugs to total $and 226 billion 2015, increasing to $1.1 trillion (in today’s dollars) by mid-century.

5. Trouble understanding visual images is a twen- are currently in testing.

Nearly one in every three seniors who dies each year has Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

and spatial relationships. ty-four hour Determined to find effective medica6. New problems with words in speaking or writing. a day, Number tion of people aged 65 and with Alzheimer’s by age Totals may not add due to rounding for Alzheimer’s, the older Alzheimer’s 65+seven 7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace day a week Association helps raise money for resteps. search through over 600 nationwide Percentage change from 2015 Year 65-74 75-84 85+ TOTAL disease.”

walks. South Texas holds seven walks 8. Decreased or poor judgment. yearly. To date, over a million dollars has been raised for 50 2015 54,000 150,000 140,000 340,000 9. Withdrawal from work or social activities.

Alzheimer’s research. To facilitate that research, Barron 40 encourages those suffering from Alzheimer’s, and their 10. 30 Changes in mood and personality. families, to sign up for69,000 TrialMatch.

This free database400,000 for 2020 180,000 160,000 20 researchers can be accessed through the Alzheimer’s As10 sociation website. The Alzheimer’s Association has many The Alzheimer’s Association offers support 0 2025 83,000 230,000 180,000 490,000 and resources for2020 patients and caregivers. resources, and Barron hopes those who need help will not 2015 2025 www.alz.org 1-800-272-3900 be scared to give us a call.

44.1%

17.6%

%

Percentage of seniors with Alzheimer’s disease

11%

Texas Alzheimer’s Statistics

#

Number of deaths from Alzheimer’s disease in 2012

5,293

Over 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s, and as many as 16 million will have the disease in 2050. The cost of caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias is estimated to total $ 226 billion in 2015, increasing to $1.1 trillion (in today’s dollars) by mid-century.

• 6 th leading cause of death in Texas Nearly one in every three seniors who dies each year has Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

65+

$$

Number of people aged 65 and older with Alzheimer’s by age

Totals may not add due to rounding

Number Alzheimer’s and dementia of unpaid change care, andfrom costs 2015 of caregiving Percentage Year of65-74 75-84 85+ caregivers, TOTAL hours Year

# of Caregivers

Total Hours of Unpaid Care

2015 2012

54,000 150,000 140,000 340,000 1,294,000 1,474,000,000

2020 2013

69,000 180,000 160,000 400,000 1,302,000 1,482,000,000

Total Value of Unpaid Care

Higher Health Costs of Caregivers

44.1%

50

$18,174,000,000

$665,000,000

40

17.6%

30

$18,457,000,000

20

$679,000,000

10

2014 2025

%

1,331,000 1,516,000,000 83,000 230,000 180,000 490,000

$18,446,000,000 0 2015

$716,000,000 2020

2025

For more information, view the 2015 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures report at alz.org/facts.

Percentage of seniors with Alzheimer’s disease

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11%

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HOLIDAY NUTRITION SURVIVAL GUIDE It goes without saying that the holidays serve up some of the tastiest and most memorable meals of the year—with summer barbecues a close second.

Of course, there are Thanksgiving favorites like turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy—not to mention unbeatable pumpkin pie. And then we get to repeat the feast for Christmas, this time with cookies to complete the meal.

But that’s not all: Every holiday party you attend will likely be overflowing with holiday cocktails and calorie-dense hors d’oeuvres. And, if you work in an office setting, coworkers are bound to share with you their favorite treats.

If you aren’t careful, this overload of caloric consumption will set you up for a rude awakening on January 1. Even before the end of the year, chronic overeating and a lack of nutritious foods can lead to inflammation, lethargy, and susceptibility to illness—of course in addition to tipping the scale more than you thought imaginable.

SET REALISTIC GOALS—While it is a

EAT UNTIL YOU ARE 80% FULL—When you notice you are

noble goal to lose 20 pounds by the end of the year, it is not realistic. In order to lose that kind of weight, you would have to make major changes to your lifestyle, including essentially starving yourself and exercising more than your body might be able to handle.

This extreme of a goal is setting yourself up for failure and a very stressful holiday season.

80% full, put down the fork and put away the food. It takes our stomachs 30 minutes to signal to our brains that we are full, so eating until 80% full will ensure you don’t overeat.

A more realistic goal might be to maintain your current weight, or to lose 2 pounds a month, which is 1 pound every other week.

KEEP A FOOD DIARY—Write down everything you eat—even if it is only one bite of shrimp cocktail. It has been proven that keeping a food journal results in better weight control than not keeping one.

TELL A FRIEND—Social accountability is a great way to help you stay on track during the holidays. Friends can celebrate your wins and help you through the tough times.

PLAN TO SUCCEED—Once you have set a realistic goal, planning is essential to your success. Without a plan, it becomes all too easy to revert to your old habits. This is more important than ever during the holiday season. Make grocery lists and use them to make healthy meals. Never show up to a holiday party hungry. Plan when, where, and with whom you will work out.

So what’s the secret to having your holiday cake and eating it, too?

MODERATION. We don’t expect you to eat salads and organic foods the entire winter; in fact, almost no one goes through the holidays without indulging here or there.

Below are 9 tips to help you stay on track with your nutrition during the holidays. Read them over and put the first 3 into practice immediately. Then, once you have completed those 3, tackle the next one. Keep adding one habit at a time only after you have mastered the previous one. If you take on too much change at once, those changes are much less likely to stick than they are if you change 1 thing at a time.

106 the bend magazine

BUILD YOUR MEALS AROUND PROTEIN AND PRODUCE—This is the primary principle of supportive nutrition.

Protein will fill you up and help repair your muscles, while produce will add plenty of nutrition and bulk to your meals, allowing you to feel full and your body to have more energy.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

EAT BREAKFAST—Those who eat breakfast consume fewer calories throughout the day than those who skip it. Make sure your breakfast includes high quality protein, such as eggs or meat, and vegetables like peppers, onions, tomatoes, spinach, etc. (veggie omelets are a great choice!)

DRINK WATER—Water helps maintain energy levels, facilitate digestion, and control hunger. Of course, it also has no calories.

With increased calories coming from our meals and snacks, skip the sugar-laden drinks and choose water instead. Aim for half your body weight in ounces of water per day, and cut out all calorie-containing beverages (sweetened coffee/tea, soda, juice, energy drinks, etc.).

LIMIT ALCOHOL—Alcohol is high in calories, and since it is in tasty liquid form, those calories can add up quickly. It’s also a depressant, meaning your mental and physical performance (and self-control) will be decreased and your stress levels will go up. Limit yourself to 2 drinks at parties and 1 drink throughout the week.

These nine tips can not only help you maintain your weight but actually help you lose a several inches over the holiday.

Set yourself up for success this holiday season by following these 9 simple tips.

Committed to Your Success, Adam Farrell M.S. CSCS YFS Pinnacle Performance and Fitness Founder/Owner

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In 2005, Driscoll began taking the artwork of their patients during the holidays and choosing one of those precious little drawings to turn into a sterling silver charm.

Casa de Oro Jewelers is proud to design, manufacture and donate these angel charms. This holiday season, please consider purchasing an angel charm. All proceeds go to the Auxiliary to Driscoll Children’s Hospital to assist their efforts in treating children of the Coastal Bend.

Casa de Oro Jewelers cares.

The 2015 Angel Charm created by Driscoll Children’s Hospital patient, Joshua, who sadly died after a valiant fight against leukemia.

We stand as tall as ANGELS when we kneel to help a child. www.casadeorojewelers.com | 4940 Gollihar Road, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 | 361.991.7054 | sales@casadeoro.net 108 the bend magazine

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CUISINE

FARM TO TABLE .109 - THE DISH - ELEANOR’S .112 - FOOD DIRECTORY .113

GET READY FOR A NEW TRADITION FROM THE FIRST THANKSGIVING

A COASTAL FEAST

First Thanksgiving Fish Stew with Colonial Pumpkin Pie

WORDS: Justin & Kayla Butts PHOTOS: Rachel Durrent [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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109

T

urkey was not the main course at the First Thanksgiving. For the Pilgrims and Pokanoket Indians on the beach in Cape Cod Bay, the centerpiece of the feast was fish stew.

Turkey was featured, of course, along with duck, goose, swan, and venison. The Pilgrims served corn, beans, squash, and peas from the garden along with wild raspberries, grapes, and plums gathered in the forest.

However, the premiere dish at the First Thanksgiving was seafood, fish stew, cooked in cast iron cauldrons over open fires on the beach. Fish stew, by all rights, should be the main course of our modern Thanksgiving.

Turkey, rather than fish stew, became tradition due to the influence of Sarah Josepha Hale. In 1863, at the height of the Civil War, Sarah Hale convinced Lincoln to declare Thanksgiving a national holiday as a way of unifying the war-torn nation.

Hale was editor of Godey’s Lady Book, a journal of stories, poetry, and, most importantly, recipes. It was the most popular magazine in America. To celebrate the newly declared Thanksgiving, Hale published a series of holiday recipes for her readers across the country.

110 the bend magazine

Hale feared that a New England fish stew recipe, authentic as it was, would be rejected by Southerners. Turkey, however, was popular both North and South. Sarah Hale’s influence made turkey the official main course for Thanksgiving, and her roasted turkey recipe has proved a lasting legacy.

This Thanksgiving, we will celebrate the fish stew tradition of our Pilgrim Fathers.

Our seafood in the Coastal Bend is some of the best in the world, and fish stew for the holidays is the perfect way to showcase the harvest of the sea.

For our fish stew recipe, we duplicated the Pilgrim dish using local and updated ingredients. Instead of the sea bass, bluefish, and lobsters of Cape Cod, we used black drum and shrimp from the Gulf. The mussels and clams Pilgrims harvested by hand are not available locally, so we used oysters and blue crab.

Only use live crab for your stew. Remove the apron and innards and toss the entire crab into the pot for a rustic feel. November is a great month for oysters; use as many as your taste and budget allow. The saffron gives this dish a robust depth of flavor.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend}

The secret to excellent fish stew is the fish stock. The unattractive leavings of your fishmonger—the fish heads, bones, and shrimp peels—are must-haves for an amazing stock.

You can get all of your seafood ingredients from Charlie at Morgan Street Seafood.

Charlie has the freshest fish in town and he will give you the essential makings for your fish stock at no charge. We even took some tips from Charlie’s mom for this recipe.

The Pilgrims did not have pumpkin pie as we know it. In Colonial days, chefs made pie by hollowing out a whole pumpkin, filling it with apples, raisins, and spices, and roasting the stuffed pumpkin next to a fire.

The entire pumpkin was eaten, rind and all.

For our colonial pumpkin pie recipe, we used lovely Galeux D’Eysines heirloom pumpkins from our garden, but these are rare and hard to find. For your pie, use any medium-sized pumpkin, or a large acorn or buttercup squash from the farmers’ market.

We are beginning a new tradition at our holiday table with fish stew and colonial pumpkin pie. We will gather our harvest from the fields and waters of THE BEND and celebrate Thanksgiving in the spirit of Plymouth Rock.

COLONIAL PUMPKIN PIE Serves 8-10 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 3 hours, 5 minutes

FIRST THANKSGIVING FISH STEW Makes 8 entrée servings or 12 appetizer servings Cook time: 2 hours

Ingredients: 10-12 lb pumpkin with top, seeds and pulp removed 2 apples, diced (recommend pink lady, granny smith, or Fuji varieties) 1 tsp cinnamon ½ tsp nutmeg ½ cup brown sugar, packed 1 cup raisins

Prep time: 25 minutes

Ingredients: For Fish Stock:

4 cups fish stock

3 lbs fish heads and bones, shrimp heads and peels

Juice of two lemons

2 carrots, peeled and chopped

1 cup pecans, chopped

1 stalk fennel, chopped

8 tbsp butter, cubed

1 onion, chopped

For Vanilla Bean Sauce:

4 garlic cloves, smashed with skin

2 cups heavy cream ½ cup granulated sugar

2 bay leaves

4 tbsp butter

2 tbsp dry or ½ cup fresh tarragon

1 vanilla bean

For Stew:

Pinch of salt

2 tbsp butter

Optional: 2 tbsp rum or brandy

2 leeks, diced

Directions: Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine spices and brown sugar in a small bowl. Place pumpkin on a rimmed, aluminum foil-lined cookie sheet.

Place half of the apples in the bottom of the pumpkin and top with 1/2 cup raisins, 1/2 cup pecans, and half of the butter. Top fruit and nut mixture with half of the sugar-spice mixture.

Using the remaining ingredients, repeat the process forming a second layer inside the pumpkin. Cover pumpkin with aluminum foil and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for three hours, or until pumpkin flesh is fork tender and filling is bubbling. Serve with Vanilla Bean Sauce.

Vanilla Bean Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine cream, sugar, salt, (optional liquor), and butter over medium-low heat.

Using a paring knife, cut down the length of the vanilla bean and scrape its contents into the cream mixture.

Whisk sauce until bubbling and a creamy consistency is reached. Serve warm by spooning sauce over each serving of pumpkin pie.

1 cup dry white wine

1 stalk fennel, finely diced 5 cloves garlic, minced

2 pinches saffron ½ tsp red pepper 2 whole live blue crabs, with apron and innards removed 2 lbs drum filets, coarsely chopped (optional: may substitute or add flounder or game fish) 2 lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 pint oysters, shucked (or more, to taste) 1 cup heavy cream ½ cup fresh tarragon, chopped

Directions: For stock: Place all fish stock ingredients in a 6-quart pot and cover with 3 quarts water. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Simmer stock for at least one hour, then remove from heat. Strain the stock through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.

Stock will keep in the refrigerator for three days, or in the freezer for three months.

For stew: Melt the butter in a 6-quart pot over medium heat. Add the leeks and fennel and sauté for 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté an additional minute, stirring frequently. Deglaze the pot with the white wine, taking care to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom. Simmer until wine is reduced by half, about 3 minutes.

Add stock, lemon juice, saffron and red pepper to pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Add fresh seafood to stock and cook for 5 minutes.

Remove from heat, add cream and tarragon, and serve.

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111

DINING

THE SCOOP ON OUR CITY’S FOOD SCENE

Eleanor’s Coffee Bar & Market

E

WORDS: Whitney Noble PHOTOS: Rachel Durrent

leanor’s Coffee Bar and Market is a new, elegantly modern café ironically nestled in the heart of Antique Row. Minimal in nature and characterized by its cornerstone white oak counters, Eleanor’s offers the perfect setting for its organic menu.

Vacant for the past four years, this space used to house a flower shop, perhaps lending to the spaces Zen aura. Push open the stark white door with antique brass mail slot to find owner Jessica Gignac, welcoming each guest with a warm, friendly smile.

Her mission: Bring good coffee and good juju to Corpus Christi.

Born and raised right here in Corpus Christi, Jessica has always used the percolation brewing method for her coffee. For nearly 17 years now, she has had the vision for this coffee bar that has finally come

112 the bend magazine

to fruition. From Pilates instructor to coffee bar owner, Jessica believes in serving “well-loved drinks and food.”

Eleanor was Jessica’s grandmother on her father’s side. When you went to Eleanor’s house, she immediately rushed to get you food, a beverage, asked you to “sit and relax”! Her strong sense of hospitality is what inspired the atmosphere for the coffee bar and market.

Jessica isn’t just serving up a hot cup of joe. She and Danny are both enthusiastic and passionate about educating customers and bringing knowledge about the percolation method of brewing, along with new roasts, to Corpus Christi. In essence, a percolator is a type of pot used to brew

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DINING GUIDE CORPUS CHRISTI

(361) 884-7873 Thurs-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

AKA SUSHI

GINGER CAFÉ & GRILL

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

$ 5802 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 993-0251 Mon-Sun: Breakfast and Lunch ATOMIC OMELETTE & GRILL

$ 6313 Wooldridge Rd #10, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 334-3942 Tues-Sun: Breakfast and Lunch

AUTHENTIC NEW YORK PIZZA

$$ 5838 S. Staples Street Corpus Christi, Texas (361) 986-1151 Tues – Sun: Lunch and Dinner BLEU BISTRO

$$$ 500 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 887-2121 Mon-Th: Lunch and Dinner Fri-Sat: Dinner Only

coffee by continually cycling the hot water through the grounds using gravity until the required strength is reached. This “pourover method” means that the water touches the coffee for a shorter amount of time allowing for a lighter taste where the flavor notes of the coffee are more prominent.

BELLINO’S

The coffee beans brewed and sold at the bar and market were methodically chosen. Driftwood Coffee is local roasted, and Merit beans are from San Antonio. Both come packaged in rustic brown bags and are perfectly lined up for sale on the shelf. Other venders include Edelan Farms Honey from Alice, TX, Bellocq Tea from Brooklyn, NY, Fed by Bread Granola from Corpus Christi, TX, Portland Growler Company from Portland, OR, and Kinfolk, Cherry Bombe, and Sweet Paul Magazines, all perch politely on the clean white shelving.

BONNA-PETIT

Eleanor’s also prepares homemade juices, milks (almond, cashew, coconut), snacks outsourced from some of the finest restaurants in town, and definitely a great atmosphere to spend your day in.

Good vibes and a great cup of coffee, this new spot deserves the local support that it gives out.

4231 South Alameda Corpus Christi, TX 78412 Open Monday-Saturday, 7 am - 3 pm

$$ 3815 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 814-8998 Tues-Sat: Lunch and Dinner $ 4301 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 334-2579 Mon-Sat: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE

$ 1724 N. Tancahuapus Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 (361) 884-2739 Mon - Sun: Lunch and Dinner CITRUS BISTRO

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

$$ Water Street Seafood Company, 309 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

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$$ 7009 S Staples, 103, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 946-9834 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner GRIMALDI’S

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

$$ 108 Peoples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 881-8503 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

HESTER’S CAFÉ & COFFEE BAR

$ 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, Texas 78401 (361) 885-0151 Tues-Sat: Breakfast and Lunch HOEGEMEYER’S BBQ

$ 711 Concrete Street, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 884-4227 Mon-Fri: Lunch Only HOUSE OF ROCK

$$ 511 Starr St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-7625 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner KATZ 21

$$$ 5702 Spohn Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78414 (361) 884-1221 Mon-Sat: Dinner Only MAMMA MIA’S

$$$ 128 N Mesquite St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 883-3773 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only MESQUITE ST. PIZZA & PASTA CO.

$$ 617 Mesquite St. Corpus Christi,Texas 78401 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner MOLÉ

$$ 6042 S. Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 334-6081 Tues – Sun: Lunch and Dinner Sat – Sun: Breakfast

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NIKO’S STEAKHOUSE

$$ 5409 Saratoga Boulevard, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 992-2333 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner REPUBLIC OF TEXAS

$$$$ 900 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 887-1600Mon-Sun: Dinner Only RUSSO’S COAL FIRED ITALIAN KITCHEN

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

SANG’S IMPERIAL CAFE

$$ 4650 Corona Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 808-8881 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner SALTWATER GRILL

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

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

$ 5830 McArdle Rd, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 993-0777 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner TOWN & COUNTRY CAFÉ

$ Town & Country Shopping Center, 4228 S Alameda St, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 992-0360 Mon-Sun: Breakfast and Lunch VIETNAM RESTAURANT

$$$ 701 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 853-2682 Mon-Fri: Lunch and Dinner Sat: Dinner Only

WATER STREET SEAFOOD COMPANY

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

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YARDARM

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

PORT ARANSAS BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL

$$$ 258 Snapdragon Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-4653 Mon – Sun: Lunch and Dinner CAFE PHEONIX

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

VENETIAN HOT PLATE

$$$ 232 Beach St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-7617 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only

ROCKPORT BELLINO’S

$$ 523 S Fulton Beach Rd Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 729-9003 Thurs-Mon: Lunch and Dinner CHARTROOM

$$$ 39 Mazatlan Drive Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 790-2450 Tues - Sun: Lunch and Dinner DAILY GRIND

IRIE’S

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

$$$ 5009 Hwy 361, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-4222 Tues-Sat: Dinner Only PORT “A” PIZZERIA

$$ 407 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-5226 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner ROOSEVELT’S AT THE TARPON INN

$$$ 200 E Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-1540 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only SHELLS

$$$ 522 E Avenue G, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-7621 Weds-Mon: Lunch and Dinner THE PELICAN CLUB

$$$ 914 Tarpon St, Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-0580 Weds-Sun: Dinner Only

TROUT STREET BAR & GRILL

$$$ 104 West Cotter Port Aransas, TX 78373 (361) 749-7800 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

$ 302 S Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 790-8745 Tues-Sat: Breakfast and Lunch GLOW

$$ 1815 Broadway St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-2644 Mon-Sun: Dinner Only JJ’S LITTLE BAY CAFÉ

$ 302 Highway 35 North, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 205-2713 Mon-Sun: Breakfast and Lunch LATITUDE 28˚02’

$$$ 105 N Austin St, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-9009 Mon-Sat: Dinner PANJO’S PIZZA

$$ 2744 Highway 35 North, Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 729-1411 Mon-Sat: Lunch and Dinner SHEMPY’S GRILL

$$ 3911 Highway 35 South Rockport, TX 78382 (361) 727-0019 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner THE BOILING POT

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

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PADR E ISLAN D BLACK SHEEP BISTRO

$$$ 15201 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-4819 Mon-Sat: Dinner Only; Sun: Lunch Only BROOKLYN PIE CO.

$$ 15326 S Padre Island Dr Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-1100 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner COSTA SURF BAR & GRUB

$$ 15113 S Padre Island Dr #101, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 945-8303 Mon: Lunch and Dinner Wed-Sun: Lunch and Dinner

DOC’S SEAFOOD AND STEAKS

$ 13309 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-6744 Mon-Sun: Lunch and Dinner DRAGONFLY

$$$ 14701 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-2224 Tues-Fri: Lunch and Dinner; Sat: Dinner Only ISLAND TIME SUSHI BAR & SEAFOOD GRILL

$$ 14225 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 (361) 949-3046 Tues-Sat: Dinner only

SCUTTLEBUTT’S BAR & GRILL

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

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

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ON THE

BAY

Ring in the New Year in style at the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel. Starting at $259 per night, the package includes deluxe accommodations, late checkout and two tickets to the New Year’s Eve Gala.* The Gala will feature continuous live music, an elegant dinner buffet, champagne toast at midnight and much more. Individual tickets $100.

361-887-1600 • omnihotels.com/CorpusChristiNewYear

*Must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Semiformal or Western formal attire required; black tie optional.

Dress code strictly enforced.