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At a time when women’s roles centered around the home, Alice Gertrudis King Kleberg broke norms, leaving an indelible mark on South Texas. The daughter of Henrietta and Captain Richard King, founder of the King Ranch, Alice embraced an unwavering commitment to her community.
Known as the “Princess of the Wild Horse Desert,” Alice was a devoted wife and mother. She worked alongside her husband, Robert Justus Kleberg Sr., founder and first President of Kleberg Bank, supporting the communities of Kingsville and Corpus Christi. In the early 1900s, her efforts were key to establishing Spohn Hospital, and after it was destroyed by a hurricane in 1919, Alice led the successful effort to rebuild and reopen the facility in 1923 — a testament to her hard work and a commitment to building a stronger community.
Alice’s legacy is one of strength and unyielding determination. At Kleberg Bank, we are proud to carry forward her spirit of service and stewardship by extending the Bank’s founding purpose, “to help those who showed the spirit of cooperation in community building” in all that we do.
True Star Power
As the editor-in-chief of The Bend, I don’t write longform features nearly as often as I used to; my role is more focused on bringing the right collection of talented people and interesting stories together each month. However, the annual Women’s Issue—where we celebrate a new year of HER honorees—will always be my exception.
To take a couple of hours’ worth of a conversation with someone and craft a version of their life’s story in just under 1,000 words isn’t necessarily easy. However, I and senior writers Kirby Conda and Vanessa Perez have attempted to capture the essence of each honoree’s identity.
Offering a glimpse at the winding roads that have led each honoree to their current roles, busy calendars, professional and personal obligations, trials and triumphs, motivations and visions, each story ultimately reminds us that if we look outside ourselves and take stock of a community and its needs, there are plenty of ways in which we can make a difference, even if it seems small in the moment.
Their stories are powerful and motivating, and it is a true privilege to share them with our readers. Though you may already know these
women or pieces of their achievements, I hope this feature resonates with you as deeply as it does with us. Each HER honoree is a wealth of knowledge, and the breadth of inspiration their journeys hold is wide.
Beyond the cover feature, much of this issue is dedicated to celebrating women in the Coastal Bend. Within these pages, you’ll find stories of individuals who make a difference in our community in diverse and meaningful ways.
You’ll find a conversation with USOA Ms. Corpus Christi 2025, Sonni Kate Nye. Ahead of the USOA Miss Texas Pageant, Nye discusses the role pageants have played in her mental health and how it feels to represent her hometown (pg. 16). A look at the YWCA’s new powerhouse additions to its leadership team, Esmerelda Herrera-Teran—a former HER honoree—and Mayra Zamora (pg. 18). You’ll learn of the ways in which South Texas Pelvic Health is helping women suffering from endometriosis (pg. 22), and discover a list of female-owned restaurants, bars and coffee shops (pg. 64); the legacy of the Góngora sisters and their presence in the Tejano music industry (pg. 68); and the special camaraderie found in a local roller derby club (pg. 72).
Regardless of your gender, phase in life or industry of work, there are great lessons to be learned from each of the women featured in this month’s issue. Their stories illuminate not just who they are as people, but how their lives ripple outward into our community. Just as each HER honoree’s journey is layered and complex, this issue, too, is a tapestry woven together by stories that collectively remind us what’s possible when women lead with vision, courage and heart.
KYLIE COOPER, EDITOR IN CHIEF kylie@thebendmag.com
THREE HIGHLIGHTS
BLUSH
I am happy to welcome Open House curator Christina Fratila to the contributing team this month. Her first article takes readers inside her personal beach home filled with pink accents, scalloped details and playful design elements. Pg. 28
COOKING WITH PURPOSE
When resident recipe developer Kayla Butts suggested that her column this month feature family recipes from former HER honorees, I couldn’t have been more thrilled. Angelica Vela and Dr. Renita Newton share their time-honored classics. Pg. 58
5 BEST PUMPKIN SPICE TREATS
Though I am typically a coffee snob and turn up my nose at fall’s pumpkin spice latte trend, this month’s 5 Best details local pumpkin spice treats of all kinds— and I just might have to try a few. Pg. 62
ISLAND
Ronald McDonald House Charities South Texas is built on love, and now that love exceeds the size of their home. It’s heartbreaking each time the charity turns away families in need.
Diagnosed with a rare triple pulmonary valve anomaly, Juanito has lived at the House for over 20 months while undergoing multiple heart procedures. For his family, Ronald McDonald House isn’t just a place to stay, it’s home, complete with support, playtime, and comfort during an uncertain journey.
Jessica and Koltin’s twins, Scarlett and Conrad, were born with vastly different needs. While Conrad faced multiple heart surgeries in his first year, Scarlett and the rest of the family found stability at the House during
their 374-day stay. For families balancing care between healthy and critically ill children, proximity to the hospital is essential, and the House provides stability and connection over extended periods.
The limited space means they often must turn away families who can’t wait. After 523 days battling cancer, Alejandro finally returned home. His journey reminds us how long some families must stay and how every extended stay fills a room that another family desperately needs.
Baby Andy, born with Heterotaxy Syndrome, had never known a home other than Ronald McDonald House. For his parents, it was a haven during months of surgeries and hospital visits, and a place filled with warmth, support, and a sense of normalcy.
LOVE BUILDS A NEW HOME
These stories reveal one truth: the current House, with only 25 rooms, can’t keep up with the growing need. The charity’s expansion campaign is a bold and urgent response to the explosive growth of children’s healthcare in our region. Every night, 11-15 families are on their waitlist, often waiting over two weeks for a room to become available.
The current location is ideal and irreplaceable. That’s why the charity is rebuilding on its existing site next to Driscoll Children’s Hospital. By expanding to 45 rooms, they will nearly double the capacity without losing the vital proximity to care.
The new House will include a spacious dining area, family-friendly kitchen pods with a visible children’s
playroom, a teen lounge, and an open-concept living space, all providing family togetherness. Additions of a peace garden and a serene chapel will offer reflection, prayer, and emotional renewal.
Ronald McDonald House is more than a place to sleep — it’s where healing begins for families with critically ill children. The legacy endures as they embrace the future of the House, and your love will help build a new home. Follow their progress at BuildingWithLove.org
Because every family deserves to stay close. ♥
Juanito
Alejandro
Andy
Scarlett & Conrad
Future Living Room
photography by JORDAN BACON
Sonni Kate Nye
Ahead of the USOA Miss Texas Pageant, USOA Ms. Corpus Christi shares what representing her hometown means and more
By Kylie Cooper Photo by Jordan Bacon
For Sonni Kate Nye, “home” will always be defined by weekends at the beach with her dad. A Corpus Christi native, she found her first stage confidence thanks to a middle school drama teacher who urged her to step into the spotlight. The spark grew into a passion that carried her through acting in New York, culinary school and even a stint in real estate, each chapter adding fuel to her determination and her role today as both artist and advocate.
Now back in the Coastal Bend, Nye serves on the Board of Directors for Young Professionals of the Coastal Bend and lends her voice to causes such as mental health awareness and suicide prevention. With the title of USOA Ms. Corpus Christi 2025, she represents not only her city on a statewide stage, but the values of authenticity and community connection.
KC: What does the title of USOA Ms. Corpus Christi mean to you? Not just to wear the crown, but to represent this city?
SKN: I am Ms. Corpus Christi! That is an honor. I am so proud and I say that with enthusiasm. Growing up, the thought of pageants never crossed my mind, so to be here in this moment, representing my hometown, is very surreal. I like to take a step back and tell myself, “Oh yeah, that is so cool.” I just hope I have made Corpus Christi as proud as it’s made me.
KC: What’s a misconception people have about women who compete in pageants?
SKN: That it’s all about looks and how much money you have. That couldn’t be further from the truth. I have met incredible women from all over Texas through pageants that are not just beautiful on the outside, but they are radiant on the inside. These women are doctors, business owners, CEOs, mothers … the list goes on. You do not have to have thousands of dollars in the bank to compete. I learned that it’s okay to lean on your community for financial support because others truly want to see you succeed. To my sponsors: I am so grateful for you!
KC: How do you draw from your acting background when stepping into the role of USOA Ms. Corpus Christi, or even when speaking at events or panels?
SKN: In acting, the number one lesson you learn is to let go. Let go of what doesn’t serve you, as it allows you to listen and be open to possibilities. As USOA Ms. Corpus Christi, listening and being open are key qualities I value in a great leader. So, for me to be that for my community and show up as my most authentic self each time, I utilize the power of letting go to be more present, mindful and open to all.
KC: I can imagine there is pressure to present a polished version of yourself when holding a title. How do you make space for the unfiltered or imperfect parts of who you are?
SKN: It goes back to that acting rule: Let go. I did not get to this point overnight; it took years of working on accepting myself, and I still take it each day at a time. Something I try to do each morning after I wake up is tell my body how much I love it and that it is beautiful. That’s helped a lot with accepting my natural beauty in this world. Also, I remind myself that a random person in H-E-B isn’t going to
IN CONVERSATION WITH
remember in an hour that I showed up in shorts and a beach shirt looking like I just rolled out of bed.
KC: Competing at Miss Texas USA must have brought a whirlwind of emotions. What did you take home from that experience?
SKN: That a smile goes a long way. When you’re competing for such a coveted title, it’s easy to get stuck in your own head. It’s important to remember you’re not alone, so smile and smile big. I made it a point to smile at every woman competing, and it was powerful to see their faces light up in those moments and return the smile.
KC: You’re also a panelist for NAMI’s Suicide Prevention Symposium. What role does mental health awareness play in your journey?
SKN: When I was 17, I was diagnosed with severe anxiety and depression. I was too afraid to leave my apartment, I was in and out of mental health hospitals and I struggled with belonging in this world. It caused me to stop acting for seven years. Today, it is important for me to share that part of myself and not shy away from it, because the more we talk openly about mental health as a society, the more comfortable we are with accepting it. For anyone who is struggling, your anxiety and depression do not define you, and you belong in this world.
KC: You speak about bridging generational gaps and fostering connection. What does “belonging” look like to you, and how has that definition changed over time?
SKN: Belonging is community. It’s where people accept you wholeheartedly. My goal, for instance, with my coffee chats is to make sure everyone feels welcomed and comfortable, whether they share 10 times or don’t speak at all. They showed up as their most authentic self in that moment, and I love that. That is belonging. It’s something I wished I’d had in my early 20s when I was experiencing so much loneliness, and I don’t want anyone to have to go through what I felt. Read
CONTACT sonnikate.com | @sonni.nye
A Dynamic Duo
The YWCA brings fresh leadership for a new era with two powerhouse women
By Ava Coronado Photo by Laro Pilartes
With the arrival of CEO Esmeralda Herrera-Teran and Director of Operations Mayra Zamora, the YWCA is stepping into an exciting new chapter. Rooted in their deep commitment to the community, these two leaders bring fresh energy and vision to the organization. Together, they’re laying the groundwork for a future where women of all generations can dream bigger, reach higher and feel supported every step of the way.
As a first-generation college graduate and proud Hispanic woman, Herrera-Teran understands what it means to overcome obstacles and create opportunity. Her journey began at the Antonio E. Garcia Arts and Education Center, where she expanded programming, increased funding and built partnerships that empowered youth and families. Herrera-Teran believes she was chosen to lead because of her strong financial expertise paired with her passion for the YWCA’s mission. Her experiences with organizations such as Driscoll Health Plan, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi and Del Mar College shaped her belief that long-lasting effort creates meaningful change.
Alongside her, Zamora leads the YWCA with 17 years of experience and creative vision. A bilingual visual arts educator, muralist and community arts leader, her dedication is evident through arts and nonprofit work for underprivileged communities.
“My goal is to expand the reach and impact of our programs, ensuring they not only meet immediate community needs but also inspire longterm change,” Zamora said. “I hope to make the YWCA a space where every person who walks through our doors feels seen, supported and empowered to thrive.”
Save the date: 14th Annual YWCA Glo & Go 5K Nite Fun Run & 2 Mile Walk is Oct. 17.
With this vision, the YWCA will continue to promote equity for women and girls led by Herrera-Teran and Zamora’s leadership as they plan to strengthen their initiatives, including YWTeen—a program that supports girls in 4th-7th grades on development issues: making friends; self-image and confidence; making wise choices for their futures; plans to achieve their dreams and more.
“As a proud Chicana and someone who has navigated challenges in both the arts and leadership spaces, I know firsthand how important it is for women to have opportunities, mentorship and support networks,” Zamora shared. “Working for a women’s empowerment organization matters because it addresses systemic inequities and gives women tools to lead, advocate and succeed.”
Driven by challenging experiences personal to them, Herrera-Teran and Zamora are equally motivated to empower the lives of all women because they believe empowerment changes lives.
The arrival of this new team signifies the chance to reach women and girls of the Coastal Bend and beyond with fresh perspectives. With opportunities to expand community partnerships and reinforce their mission in innovative ways, their vision is just getting started.
“At the heart of my work is a simple belief: When you invest in women and girls, you invest in the future of the entire community,” Herrera-Teran said. “As a Hispanic, first-generation college graduate, I am living proof that determination, education and opportunity can change the trajectory of a life. My hope is that every woman and girl who walks through the doors of the YWCA sees not only the resources we offer, but also a reflection of her own potential.”
THE LOCAL'S LIST PARTY 2025
The Local’s List Party 2025 was a night to remember! Guests indulged in bites and sips from winners; Chicas Rock, Clarissa Serna and DJ JOHNNY HOTCAKES kept the crowd dancing; and attendees explored interactive activities from local favorites. Special thank you to our sponsors: Port of Corpus Christi, AutoNation Cadillac Corpus Christi, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi, Visit Corpus Christi, Kleberg Bank, Halcyon Med Spa, TC Auto Service and Beach Ball Brewing.
Rising Above Endo
How South Texas Pelvic Health is helping women struggling with endometriosis
By Leila Ydrogo
The female body undergoes numerous unfamiliar changes throughout its life cycle. These changes are often dismissed, attributed to menstrual discomfort or even considered “normal.” But at South Texas Pelvic Health, bringing awareness to issues that seem too taboo to talk about is the norm. The practice addresses various pelvic floor issues, ranging from common urinary and bowel problems to complex chronic pain conditions with diverse diagnoses. Although these symptoms can stem from a variety of causes, the most common and misunderstood is endometriosis.
Dr. Kathryn DeBerry, owner and physical therapist at South Texas Pelvic Health, realized how few and far between practices like this were after having her first child. Upon moving to Corpus Christi, she decided to become that resource for local women and their conditions that were often overlooked.
“One in 10 women are affected by endometriosis,” shared Melissa Huber, an occupational therapist at South Texas Pelvic Health. “Endo is where tissue of the lining in the uterus grows outside of it. Depending on where in the body the endo is, symptoms can vary, which makes it even more challenging to diagnose.”
For example, a person with stage 4 endo could have minimal pain compared to a person with stage 1, who may be experiencing constant pain. “Chronic pain is really complex, but for the most part, we are able to see a lot of positive change with the physical adjustments,” DeBerry said.
Many patients struggle not only with pain, but also with the high costs of treatments. The Rise Above Endo Fund was born out of a desire to remove financial barriers for women with endometriosis seeking pelvic floor therapy. The fund was inspired by the clinic’s patient, Emma, who openly shared her story about her struggles with endo, and it became clear that too many women do not have the same opportunity for care.
Join the cause and donate to the Rise Above Endo Fund by visiting South Texas Pelvic Health’s website.
Emma spent years battling severe pain, nausea and fatigue from endometriosis, only to be told it was “normal.” After finally receiving a proper diagnosis and undergoing surgery, she found real relief through pelvic floor therapy, which gave her hope and restored mobility.
The fund operates through community donations and proceeds from specific services and events. These contributions directly support women with endometriosis who are experiencing financial hardship by assisting with pelvic floor therapy sessions, which can cover either partial or full treatment costs at South Texas Pelvic Health.
“We want to go above and beyond to get the full picture to understand why your body is responding this way to be able to address the root cause,” said DeBerry. “It is a journey that we want to support you through, so you don’t have to do it alone.”
CONTACT
1045 Airline Road | 361.317.1530
southtexaspelvichealth.com
GARDENS IN AUTUMN
ORCHIDS, BUTTERFLIES ROSES & MOONLIGHT
“MOONLIGHT & MARIPOSAS IN THE GARDENS”
6:00-9:30PM FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10 STXBOT.ORG
There’s never a bad time to discover something new, especially when it can elevate your health and beauty. As fall gets into gear, it’s the perfect time for a beauty refresher.
Revisiting the Estée Lauder counter brings back childhood memories of hopeful anticipation. I’ll also put you on to new, cutting-edge technology with benefits that come via a glass of water. Plus, I'm sharing my favorite Southside spot for a treat, which I was surprised to hear was unknown to many of my friends. Although your eyes will feast first, you may let out an audible sigh on your first bite.
Autumn Glow
Harvest the rewards of these health and beauty favorites
By Natalie Werkhoven
LET’S BE SOCIAL!
@Castor_and_Glow
I love local businesses, and I’d love to hear from you. Contact me on Instagram with recommendations for your local health and beauty business or product. Sharing the Coastal Bend's beauty and wellness bests is my forte!
THE ESSENTIALS
MAYU SWIRL CARAFE mayuwater.com
Sometimes it takes time to process something new. I was first introduced to the concept of restructuring water via a water vortex by my brother—and not understanding the technology or benefits, I mentally bookmarked it and set it aside for a few years. But he was onto something.
Our bodies were designed to process our food and water as nature intended: organic produce, grass-fed meats and aerated water full of minerals. Many of our natural
water resources are contaminated and must be heavily filtered, treated and pushed long distances along pipes where the water picks up contaminants and is not able to aerate. Emerging studies validate that water loses its structure and our bodies have to use energy to convert the molecules to be recognized by our cells.
The Mayu Swirl uses 100% borosilicate glass, a handmade porcelain base that is motorized (to generate a magnetic field) and a magnetic impeller to create a vortex, pulling the water down and pushing it out as the impeller rotates. The water is naturally purified as the aeration removes carbon dioxide and chlorine and oxygen is replaced.
Here are my three steps to obtain the benefits of water in its natural state: I fill the Mayu carafe with reverse osmosis water, I add ionic minerals and electrolytes (I purchase mine through Mayu) and
Reminiscent of a food truck I’ve seen along a Hawaiian coastline, Coco Cabana delivers a fun island vibe inspired by the Brazilian shores, plus exceptional quality and kind service. My favorite menu item is the irresistibly delicious Gogi Glow bowl, filled with an in-house organic açai frozen base, collagen, granola, strawberries, blueberries, goji berries and honey. A winning treat, açai is a superfood packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. I also love curating my own bowl with a pitaya (dragonfruit) and mango base, bee pollen, hemp seeds, berries and a drizzle of coconut oil that forms a crackle once in contact with the frozen scoop of pitaya.
finally, I set the carafe on the base and let it swirl for 7-10 minutes. (Optionally, bottled spring water or tap water may also be used as the effects of the vortex are the same, regardless of the source.) The swirling water is quite mesmerizing and has become a conversation piece. I’m obsessed. I love the taste of the restructured water, as it is softer and somehow sweeter. This is optimized water for improved well-being.
DOUBLE WEAR STAY-INPLACE CONCEALER & ADVANCED NIGHT REPAIR EYE LIFT AND SCULPT
Estée Lauder, Dillard’s 5488 S. Padre Island Drive
You know the old saying, “kill two birds with one stone”? Well, Estée Lauder has done your eyes a favor and has just spectacularly succeeded with the spring launch of a new concealer and the summer launch of an eye cream. I have diligently worn both for the last couple of months, and they are phenomenal.
I am always in pursuit of the best as technology and formulations improve. My concealer saga has been a winding one as I left behind old favorites for new ones. Lightweight and comfortable, this concealer has a lovely texture and staying power. It brightens and has excellent coverage with a flawless and natural finish. It blends seamlessly, dries quickly and doesn’t cake or settle into fine lines; and, for the first time in a while, I found a setting powder unnecessary.
Using peptides and two types of high and low molecular weight versions of hyaluronic acid to replump, this eye cream is truly stellar at delivering visible results. It not only targets the under-eye area, but also treats the lids (hello, lift!), crow’s feet and inner corners of the eyes. The texture is weightless and creamy and it
“Our passion is creating an experience that’s good for both body and soul,” shared owners Zack and Bela Jaradat. “We put care into every detail, from sourcing quality ingredients to crafting vibrant bowls and smoothies that nourish and uplift you to take on the day.”
The Jaradats have cultivated a fun, family-friendly atmosphere and a variety of delectable and nutrient-dense food and drink options, and have provided a destination you’ll want to bring your out-of-towners to, as it is perfect for a treat, workout refresher or meal.
photo by ASHLEY PETTIBONE
Coco Cabana 3809 Airline Road, Corpus Christi
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Island Blush
A playful pink beach cottage charms on North Padre Island
By Christina Fratila Photos by Ariel Stimson, Merdog Media
On North Padre Island, where homes often blend quietly into the coastal landscape, a charming seaside cottage dares to stand out in the best possible way. Blush-toned and bathed in light, its soft pink exterior feels especially resonant this time of year, as we honor Breast Cancer Awareness Month. With much of the October issue dedicated to women in the Coastal Bend, this house is a perfect fit, reflecting a bold and intentionally feminine spirit.
A personal passion project, Island Blush is a playful cottage layered with scalloped details and sea-inspired elements. I designed it as a kind of cheerful lure to entice friends and family to visit us here on the Gulf Coast, and
filled it with natural woven materials to bring warmth and texture. The balance of pastel tones with vibrant accents makes this a beautiful gathering place and a backdrop for countless memories.
Inspired by the cotton candy skies we often see along the Gulf Coast, the exterior of the home was given a pale pink facelift. I painted the front door Tropical Paradise and added flower boxes and Adirondack chairs to boost curb appeal, creating a welcoming moment from the street.
Inside, the open gathering room radiates personality, with blush club chairs, rattan accents and summerinspired art pieces. The aqua-hued “sandroom” makes coming and going a
breeze, with ample space for towels, flip flops and beach bags.
The kitchen, painted in Summer Shower, includes a large island and a Mosaic coffee bar tucked into an arched nook that displays artwork and curated glassware. Overhead, rattan pendants warm up the space and bring natural texture to a kitchen that packs impressive efficiency into its modest footprint.
The powder bath features pink-andmint bamboo wallpaper and a rattan pendant—playful, but polished.
The stairwells just might be the showstoppers of the entire home. I covered the risers in pink clam-like tile and added a rattan shell sconce for an extra touch of charm. At the top of the
third floor’s Buoyant Blue spiral staircase, a display of framed bathing suits welcomes you into a space bursting with potential for activity and creativity.
The second floor offers two distinct guest bedrooms. One boasts swimmer wallpaper, while the other features a blue palm accent wall and a captivating Lake Padre wallpaper scene. Both rooms are unified by coordinating accent shower tile, creating a cohesive and playful scene.
One of the most surprising elements in the home is the bunk bathroom, which includes a double vanity flanked by a shower and toilet on each side. Bubble lighting and swirl wallpaper on the ceiling bring a whimsical energy that perfectly
reflects the home’s spirit.
The third-floor bunk room completes this whimsical cottage with daybeds, a separate A-frame sleeping nook, a cozy game corner and a balcony that offers the perfect sunset view. Vintage life rings— rescued and reimagined as wall art—add a nostalgic touch.
Dressed in pink all year long, the home’s every detail was chosen to feel light, happy and full of heart, just like our life here by the water. Much like the pink ribbons of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Island Blush stands as a reminder that there is strength and beauty in femininity.
NOW GROWING
Sweet Onions
How to grow the 1015 Supersweet in your Coastal Bend garden
By Justin Butts
Onions are a true delight of the garden. Of all the vegetables that taste best when grown in your own Coastal Bend soil, onions, along with tomatoes, are at the top of the list.
Grown in China 6,000 years ago and in Egypt at least 4,000 years ago, the onion has been documented since the earliest gardens of civilization. The Egyptians believed it to be a divine vegetable due to the concentric rings, and some pharaohs were even buried in onions.
The 1015 Supersweet onion is, in my opinion, the best of all. This variety was invented by a Texas Aggie horticulturalist named Dr. Leonard Pike, and, thanks to his innovation in flavor, onions are the leading vegetable export from Texas.
Onions are in the allium family along with garlic, chives, leeks and shallots. With substantial health benefits, the vegetable is rich in antioxidants, possibly providing improvements in circulation, heart health and cholesterol.
But the real reason to grow onions is the unbelievable difference in flavor when grown in your own garden. Onions take longer in the garden to mature than most vegetables, but they are more than worth the wait.
GARDENER'S NOTES
GROWING UP
Onion starts are recommended rather than seeds. Spacing, 4”. Bury the bulb no more than 1” deep and in full sun. Extremely rich, well-drained soil is required. Add three to four inches of compost to soil, along with two cups of native wood ash and two cups of pastured poultry manure per 100 square feet. Fertilize in December and again in February. Maintain consistently moist (but not wet) soil. Apply a continuous layer of native leaf mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
PROFILING
The onion is a good companion with carrots and lettuce, and its scent repels pests. If planted in the fall, it will mature between March and May the following year. Choose a sunny part of the garden you don’t mind committing to onions for several months. Harvest when the tops turn yellow and bend over. Pull gently from the soil and cut the roots with scissors if necessary. To store, braid the tops and hang in a cool, dry place.
FUN FACTS
The 1015 Supersweet onion is revered as the best of all sweet onions. Its inventor, Dr. Leonard Pike, named it 1015 to remind farmers to plant them on October 15. It was declared the Texas state vegetable in 1997. Pike also developed the “Aggie Maroon Beta sweet carrot” and many other vegetables; and his agricultural inventions have contributed billions of dollars to the Texas economy.
HER 2025
Honoring, Empowering & Raising Up Eight Extraordinary Women in the Coastal Bend
written by KIRBY CONDA, KYLIE COOPER and VANESSA PEREZ
Portraits by Shoocha Photography
makeup by EVANGELYN REYES, DUST MY FACE
hair by HECTOR PEREZ JR., DESIGN CONCEPTS SALON styling by ALEXA GIGNAC, JULIAN GOLD CORPUS CHRISTI
Medical Hero DR. MARY MARGARET ARA
n any given day, Dr. Mary Margaret Ara might be found guiding clinical research, mentoring young people or standing alongside volunteers at a local camp for children with special needs. But wherever she is, one thing is certain: Her presence reflects not only medical expertise but also compassion, service and a deep commitment to community. It’s this rare combination of skill and heart that makes Ara such a gem in the medical field.
Born and raised in Goliad, Texas, Ara grew up surrounded by the values of hard work, service and responsibility. Her family’s cattle ranch gave her a grounded upbringing, and her frequent visits accompanying her grandparents and parents to doctors’ offices sparked an early interest in medicine.
“I was intrigued by both the science—the pathophysiology of medicine—and the relationships,” she recalled. “To be invited in on possibly the worst day of someone’s life and to help turn things around? That was pivotal for me.”
That sense of purpose carried her to the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, where she earned a doctorate in medicine in 2008. She completed her residency in family medicine in 2011 and went on to establish a career defined by excellence, leadership and service. Today, she is double-board certified in family medicine and obesity medicine, practices as the owner of Sahara Medical Consulting and serves as Principal Investigator at Pinnacle Clinical Research, where she contributes to advancing fatty liver disease and obesity-related care.
Early in her career, Ara was drawn to the adrenaline and urgency of hospital medicine; over time, her focus has broadened to include patient education and preventive care. She has given lectures and hosted small-group classes both in her hometown and in Corpus Christi, teaching about nutrition, exercise and chronic disease management.
As of this reading, she will have officially opened Goliad Health and Wellness, a new facility featuring exam rooms, a conference space with audiovisual technology and a mission to educate the community about health management. “Education is vital,” she said. “Sometimes helping patients is not just about what you do in the exam room, it’s about equipping them to live healthier lives every day.”
Her dedication to empowering patients stems from personal experience. As a high school student, she watched her uncle face a life-threatening heart condition. One doctor told him to “get his affairs in order.” Another, at the Houston Medical Center, saw a straightforward case for bypass surgery, and was right. Her uncle survived and thrived. For
Ara, the moment crystallized the importance of humility and knowledge in medicine. “If you can help someone, do it. Do your best,” she said. “And if you can’t, recognize that another physician may be able to. Knowing your limits is just as important as knowing your strengths.”
In addition to her professional success, what sets Ara apart as a true hero is her tireless service beyond medicine. Alongside her husband, she has made significant philanthropic contributions to her hometown. They purchased and donated the historic First National Bank building to the City of Goliad for public use and revitalization, and funded the restoration of the city’s World War II memorial. Her efforts were recognized in 2022 when she and her husband were honored by the Goliad Chamber of Commerce for their contributions to community life.
Her volunteer work is equally meaningful. She donates her time at Camp Aranzazu, a therapeutic camp for children with special needs and chronic illnesses, and supports wellness initiatives at the local Jewish Community Center. As a board member of the Area Health Education Center, she helps improve healthcare access and education in rural South Texas. She also stays engaged with youth sports and Boy Scouts, mentoring the next generation of leaders.
The path has not been without challenges. Medicine demands long hours, resilience and the ability to balance professional responsibilities with family life. As a mother and physician, Ara knows this well. Yet she has met each challenge with humility and determination. “It’s not a job you can turn off when you get home,” she said. “Medicine is a lifestyle.”
What sustains her is the fulfillment she finds in relationships with patients—communicating openly, navigating tough diagnoses and being present in moments of loss. “That connection with patients, that’s what motivates me,” she reflected.
For Ara, legacy is less about accolades and more about impact. “I want to do the best I can, help the most people and create opportunities for those who come after me,” she said.
Her advice for aspiring physicians echoes that philosophy: “Shadow someone. Ask questions. Understand that this isn’t just a job, it’s a calling.”
As she continues to balance medical practice, clinical research, community service and family life, Dr. Mary Margaret Ara embodies the spirit of a true medical hero. She is a physician who heals, sure, but she is also a leader who uplifts, a mentor who guides and a neighbor who gives back.
written by KIRBY CONDA
Industry Leader CINDY BARRERA
Throughout her 26 years ascending through the ranks of her industry, Cindy Barrera has carried some advice offered early on to her heart: Hope is not a strategy. As the Vice President of Business Development at with Frost Wealth Advisors, as well as the 2025 Chair for the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, Barrera balances the weight of her dreams alongside steadfast motivation and a plan to forge those dreams into realities.
As the eldest daughter of a large family from Edgeroy, Texas, Barerra has long felt confident at taking the lead in advocating for herself. From speaking in front of thousands of people as a child in faith-based settings to being the glue that brought different parts of her family together, she always saw the worth of deepening her involvement wherever she went. She credits watching her parents develop relationships with people within their small community with opening her eyes to the needs of others and to a deeply ingrained sense of giving unto others.
“My confidence came from the love of my family, but they also instilled in me the love of giving back to others,” Barrera explained, recalling her dad spending weekends mowing lawns for neighbors as far back as she can remember. “My parents are endless givers. And that’s where my heart for service came from.”
Starting her own family came early in life, along with the question of how she would support them. Without the luxury of time to pursue an education, Barrera quickly set to work at her first job as a motor teller with Frost Bank. Within her first year, she was offered an opportunity in its trust department and, though she left the company for 14 years, she would eventually return to the same department in wealth management where she currently serves.
While the work itself may mistakenly be seen as merely dollars and cents, for Barrera, the act of wealth management means many things for the individuals and families she serves—whether it’s buying time, comfort or freedom to enjoy their lives, or to continue building toward those hopes in the future.
“During the time I had been working at Frost, they recognized my abilities and created the position I’m in now, Lead for Business Development,” she said. “I tell people I have the best job at Frost. I truly believe that.”
A strong sense of self-worth coupled with a desire to forge a path to success for herself and her family always drove Barrera to strive for more. She recalled the small-town girl
in her wanting to take advantage of all the big-city benefits and connections Corpus Christi had to offer. Still early in her work as a teller in the 2000s, she positioned herself in places with people she wanted to work alongside. She found mentors in Connie Geary, the first female financial advisor she met at Paine Webber, as well as Robert Tamez, who she said was instrumental in encouraging her early involvement with the former Hispanic Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce.
Barrera described the pesky inner voice of imposter syndrome, which would nag at her throughout her career, as quieting with every year of experience and each accomplishment she accrued along the way. “My years of experience were the substitution for my lack of education. All I’ve ever done in my adult life has been in the financial services industry. I have felt this deep gratitude for the opportunities I have been given,” she said. “A few years ago, I said to myself, ‘I know what I bring to the table,' which allowed me to ensure I was valued accordingly.”
The road to success was not without its challenges, with life dealing difficult hands in a personal battle with cancer while raising her two kids, Ashleigh and Luke, amid the stress of a busy career. For Barrera, the gift of resilience and gratitude rested along the way of a hard path. Turning lemons into lemonade, Barrera has become a champion of many causes through the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, Pink Connection, Triumph over Kid Cancer Foundation and Lemonade Day of the Coastal Bend, where local children can take part in a national effort to raise financial literacy and gain entrepreneurial skills.
The natural pitfall for givers may be to give too much of themselves, something Barrera has learned to rein in by way of self-care and not losing focus on the things she has gained in her journey. Taking refuge in a home with two dogs and her son, she celebrates having more love than she can say grace over, and credits her faith as a grounding power in her life.
As a Hispanic woman in an industry typically dominated by men, Barrera hopes the strides she makes in her own path might make the way more accessible for others who come after her, especially in thinking of her daughter. “I have found purpose in how I choose to live my life [and] to know I’m making a difference for other women,” she shared. “Even if the impact is just on my daughter, if [what I am doing] makes other women smile, if it gives them hope, that is a job well done.”
written by VANESSA PEREZ
Catalyst MELANIE NAZARI
eeting Melanie Nazari at one of the many social outings she might be found hosting or attending, you would never suspect the depth of hardship she has faced in life. Foremost, you’d be struck by her gracious demeanor and everpresent smile, as well as the full attention she grants to every interaction. A true people person, Nazari has a presence about her that draws people to the many causes she champions as a result of these personal challenges and deep values.
A native Corpus Christian, Nazari was raised in the spirit of doing your best at everything you do. The eldest daughter of Gayle and David Villarreal, Nazari was moved to excel early in life as head cheerleader and class president, graduating from college at the University of Texas, where she studied radio, television and film and received a minor in journalism—by the age of 20. Her spirit for adventure took her to California for several years, where she worked in television and experienced the challenges young women face across numerous industries. The sands quickly shifted for her future: one day appearing in “The Young and the Restless” and the next facing a diagnosis of borderline lupus, which would send her back to Texas to be closer to family.
“When I came back to Corpus because I was sick, not six months later, my mom had her first stroke,” Nazari recalled. A year later, her mother would suffer another stroke, and then a third, which resulted in her use of a wheelchair. Nazari credits her mother’s strength and constant spirit of gratitude as a motivating factor to live her life with the same resilience and purpose. It was in the grief and eventual healing of this experience that Nazari first heard the call to something bigger than herself.
While working as an events director in Kings Crossing, she organized her first event in support of the Lupus Foundation of South Texas in 2005. “I had just gotten out of college, and [Kings Crossing] needed revenue and events,” Nazari said. “It was fun and successful. I not only got to donate money to the Lupus Foundation, but I was also honoring my mom, who has had lupus for 45 years.”
A life dedicated to duty for multiple causes soon branched out into those of motherhood and marriage, which Nazari said pushes her to want to do even more. When she’s not chairing events or organizing luncheons for different foundations, she’s an active parent at her children’s high schools. “I live my life with purpose, regardless if it’s making sure my kid is at the dentist, getting lunches packed and everyone off for the day, or chairing a 500-person event and making it go off without a hitch.”
As someone who spent her youth in the pageant circuit, where she learned early personal empowerment as well as the strength in finding community, Nazari is no stranger to healthy competition, especially in the interest of service.
Each year, the American Heart Association (AHA) challenges its members to use their influence within their respective communities to draw attention and funding to fighting cardiovascular disease in women. The number one killer of women, cardiovascular disease such as heart disease and stroke claims the lives of women every 80 seconds in the U.S. alone, affecting many more than all forms of cancer, respiratory disease and diabetes combined. A Woman of Impact signifies one woman in her community who champions the cause, mobilizes her network and raises the most lifesaving funds in the region for AHA.
This year, as the Woman of Impact from Corpus Christi, Nazari brought 66 women into her Circle of Red and raised $114,700—a record total for the Coastal Bend. Additionally, she was recognized as one of only two women in Corpus Christi to ever be inducted into the AHA’s Centennial Club, a testament to her position as the fifth highest earner nationwide in 2025. Nazari’s army of 66, or “Melanie’s Heartthrobs,” as she lovingly refers to them, encapsulated diverse women looking to make change, from her 16-year-old daughter to her 93-year-old grandmother, as well as her personal friends and colleagues in the community.
In accepting her award at the annual event, Nazari highlighted her mother’s experience with CVD as her motivation. Closing her speech, she evoked the words of Pope Francis, “Life is good when you are happy, and much better when others are happy because of you.”
The desire to do more doesn’t end when it’s rewarded for Nazari, but when the need is met. And for many, the need is ongoing. With a focus on causes dedicated to women and children, Nazari hopes to lend her time and resources in continuing to bridge the gap for those in need right here in the Coastal Bend.
Her work with New Life Refuge Ministries took aim at supporting and protecting child survivors of sex trafficking. She recently chaired the second-ever New Life Refuge Ministries Gala, where she helped raise over $100,000 for children right here in our community. Nazari and her husband, Vic, set their sights on plans for delivering services and resources directly to children in the Coastal Bend through a nonprofit organization.
As an agent of change and foremost as a mother to Madison and Maddox, Nazari hopes to lead by example. “I try to teach my kids if you’re going to do something, do it full form,” she said. “For me, I serve God, my husband, my children, family and community. When I’m doing that, I am most fulfilled.”
Sparking action in every area of philanthropic work she pours her all into, Melanie Nazari’s bold efforts and generous spirit are improving the Coastal Bend and the lives of those in it.
written by VANESSA PEREZ
Legacy THEA CAIN
teeped in the legacy of her mother Dorothy BensonBrown—who transcended humble beginnings as a single mom working as a maid to become a beacon of academic excellence and community leadership—Thea Cain, in all that she does, echoes the enduring influence of cultural awareness and education.
Cain’s mother was one of the first Black students to attend a desegregated Del Mar College, where she would later become a professor and help to develop innovative reading skill workshops. In 1975, after traveling to other Texas cities and participating in large Juneteenth celebrations, she decided to emulate a similar gathering in Corpus Christi called Black Awareness Day, long before any iteration of the now annually celebrated Juneteenth Festival existed here.
Molded by a legacy of strength and community service, Cain carries the same torch her mother initially lit. She decided to pursue a teaching career to counter the scarcity of minority representation in education. “I remember thinking back, and I had never had a Black teacher,” Cain reflected. Her journey has since become a guiding light for those who seldom see themselves mirrored in these roles.
Having lived and worked in Oklahoma for two decades, Cain returned to her hometown of Corpus Christi in 2015 to care for her mother. She immediately felt called to help preserve cultural heritage and promote civic engagement, and joined the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) as the First Vice President. She also plugged herself into the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the local chapter of the Texas Association of Black Personnel in Higher Education.
Adeptly integrating community service with her teaching philosophy at Carroll High School, Cain fostered an environment that encouraged students to explore their identities, emphasizing Black history as integral to the American narrative.
“These students need to know that Black history is American history,” Cain said. “We are not going to just ignore and not acknowledge the accomplishments of African Americans.”
Cain led efforts to introduce Black History Month programming that didn’t exist at the school prior—such as a fashion show celebrating traditional African American garments, instilling a sense of identity in students—and later founded the African American Culture Society at Carroll.
“At first, I noticed the Black students did not want to walk in the fashion show. They would act shy or almost ashamed,” she shared of the show’s first few years. Implementing the African American Culture Society in 2023 allowed those prior feelings of embarrassment to turn into pride.
“They had more of a sense of ownership,” Cain said. “We want to represent ourselves, where we come from and wear these styles and these patterns. We want to see what it looks
like against our skin. They began styling each other and putting their own spin on things. It was just beautiful.”
When asked how she managed to balance the time, energy and personal resources that go into not just being a teacher, but being a club sponsor and leading the yearbook team, Cain echoed the all-too-common truth of “If I don’t do this, then who else will?”
“If I’m not creating these spaces for them, then who is going to? And if I can provide this now, maybe that means others will pick up where I left off and be able to continue this for the next group of students and the ones after them,” Cain said. “It gives me a sense of pride that the work doesn’t end with me and my generation; that I’m leaving a legacy for those who are coming behind me.”
The legacy reverberating through Cain’s life is evident outside the classroom through her active involvement in organizations such as the NAACP as the Youth Works Chair, and the NAACP Youth Council, which she helped spearhead efforts to reinstate in 2023 after almost 10 years of dormancy. The council’s mission centers around activism and community engagement among youth in the Black community, offering a sanctuary where they can seek guidance on issues such as bullying, racism and academic struggles. The broader goal is to mold these young members into future leaders who will continue advocating for justice and equality within the NAACP and beyond.
“It instills in these young individuals that they have a voice; they have a choice and they don’t have to sit back and allow things to happen to them,” Cain said. “They can do things to provide their own opportunities, to advocate for themselves, to speak up for themselves and others.”
Though her teaching career will eventually come to an end, Cain sees herself continuing to serve her community through various initiatives and causes—whether it’s helping to ensure Black actors were cast in Harbor Playhouse’s recent run of Hairspray, in which Cain effortlessly smashed the role of Motormouth Maybelle, or working with the NAACP to speak on issues such as those facing the historically Black neighborhood of Hillcrest.
“Even though our Black community only makes up a small percentage of our population, about 4%, we are still a part of this community; we still live here; we still matter,” Cain said about her future goals. “And if I can be a voice in that, even with the challenges that come along with it, it’s a challenge I’m willing to face to be an advocate for my community.”
Cain’s constant pursuit of emboldening the next generation of leaders echoes what one can only imagine Dorothy BensonBrown would have said herself: “We are not invisible, and we are valuable,” Cain concluded. “We need to be seen and we need to be accepted with all of our gifts and talents.”
written by KYLIE COOPER
hair by EVANNA REYNA
makeup by FRANK REYNA
Innovator ROXANA REYNA
ou might say being at the helm of medical marvels is in Roxana Reyna’s blood. Her great-grandmother, a curandera or folk healer, was often called out to ranches in their community of Hebbronville to heal people’s wounds, either through lotions and tinctures or prayer. Reyna has set a path to conjuring more with her own two hands.
“I’ve always told my kids, ‘What you do today is not for today, it’s for tomorrow,’” Reyna said, reflecting on her choice to chase ambitions that would lead to her earning a specialty degree in wound care from Emory, as well as becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner. She currently serves as a Wound Care Nurse Practitioner with Driscoll Children’s Hospital, where she has practiced in many capacities for the last 26 years. She credits her parents—her father was a Marine while her mother owned a flower shop—as the foundation of her work ethic and spirit of giving to others.
Over the last decade, Reyna has become a bit of a sensation among medical MacGyvers and researchers on a global scale. After her start at Driscoll Children’s Hospital as a NICU nurse who had paid for school by cutting hair while raising two kids, today Reyna finds herself traveling to medical conferences around the world as a nurse practitioner and researcher of wound ostomy. The passion she has for her work is contagious and has ultimately resulted in the creation of a three-person wound care team at Driscoll that provides clinical patient care and educates other nurses and nurse practitioners at the hospital.
It’s not every day that a working class hero sees the fruits of their labor celebrated across the world, but for Reyna, every new dream begins with her patients and their own dreams of wellness.
Sixteen years ago, baby Kayla arrived in Reyna’s care at Driscoll. Kayla suffered from a rare, severe birth defect that affects fewer than 2 of every 10,000 live births annually: a giant omphalocele. The condition is as complex as its name conveys—an infant’s abdominal wall fails to close completely in gestation, causing organs to grow outside the body and into the thin, translucent sac of the umbilical cord. Having previously completed certification in wound care, Reyna saw the condition through a different lens.
“I was like, ‘The omphalocele looks like a wound—why are we treating it so differently?’” she recalled. “They were using iodine and stalling the cells, when you can actually allow them to grow.”
She got to work implementing her skills in moisture management for cell growth and healing, creating a specific method of dressing to protect from infection, with the idea being to keep the wound safe until it was time to do surgery. Kayla was able to return home with her family earlier and in great condition thanks to Reyna’s intervention, and the subsequent surgery to place her organs was a success.
Her work with baby Kayla was given a spotlight by Johnson & Johnson, and in 2014, she was invited to the White House by former President Barack Obama in a celebration of innovators in their fields. Amid the subsequent speaking engagements, awards and publications, her work as a nurse directly at bedsides never stalled, and neither has her need to share her innovations with others.
Since 2022, Reyna has made headlines for the first pediatric use of new medical technology in the form of fish skin grafts. Eliana DeVos, who was born at 23 weeks, weighed only a pound and had developed a life-threatening infection on her neck.
“This is the fish skin from the cold waters of Iceland,” Reyna said, tracing the highly magnified scans of the grafts with her computer mouse. “There are minimal viral and bacterial infections in the water, so it doesn’t have to go through rigorous cleaning. It keeps its structure and, under a microscope, looks a lot like human skin. It’s been found to help maintain moisture, reduce pain and inflammation and promote faster healing.”
The graft itself acts as a scaffold for healthy tissue to heal into. At the bedside, Reyna typically uses particles of the grafts mixed into a paste with medical-grade honey to be applied onto the wound. Hearing Reyna speak, it’s evident what wealth of knowledge she has not only on the subject but on biology and wound care as a whole. It’s no wonder she serves in many capacities as an expert source on the topic the world over.
Her background as a nurse, Reyna has found, equips her to pioneer methods and practices that benefit the healing and recovery of her patients. “Nurses spend more time with patients than anybody else,” she said in an interview with Johnson & Johnson in 2018. “That’s why doctors listen to us. That’s why we’re able to innovate.”
Reyna’s office is decorated with reminders of the patients whose lives she indelibly changed for the better, next to photos of her own family. She affectionately recalls her first fish skin recipient as her “mermaid” and doesn’t lose sight of the faces and families behind the cases.
“I don’t really see it as a job, I see it more like a gift,” Reyna said. “I take that seriously, it’s something that’s been given to me and I have to use it.”
An innovator in every sense of the word, Reyna divides her time between fellow trailblazers in her field around the world, whom she both teaches and learns from, and her South Texas community. Her rare blend of curiosity, compassion and commitment makes her an invaluable innovator and a source of inspiration for others.
written by VANESSA PEREZ
Rising Star AVERY DURRILL RENY
When Avery Durrill Reny reflects on her career, she often thinks of the footsteps she’s following. Her grandfather and father poured decades of passion and vision into Corpus Christi, building not only businesses but community landmarks—places where music, food and connection thrive.
Stepping into the family business wasn’t always her plan. After earning a communications degree from Texas A&M University – College Station, Reny launched her career in Fort Worth. But coming home to Corpus Christi and finding her place within Durrill Properties has become one of her most fulfilling decisions.
“I didn’t think I would come home and work with the family business,” she admitted. “But it’s been incredibly rewarding. I know I have big shoes to fill, but it’s an honor to carry forward the reputation and the legacy my dad and grandpa built.”
That sense of legacy and responsibility now fuels her daily. Balancing tradition with innovation, Reny has emerged as a leader in her own right. She serves on the Board of Directors for the Downtown Management District, co-chaired the 2025 ArtRageous event for the Art Museum of South Texas and sits on the museum’s board of trustees.
Her leadership journey began with humility. When she joined Durrill Properties in 2022, she shadowed her father for six months, learning the ins and outs of businesses like Brewster’s Street Icehouse, Concrete Street Amphitheater, Hurricane Alley and the Devary Durrill Foundation. At first, she wasn’t sure her background would fit. Soon, though, she saw how her communications and branding expertise could make a real and impactful difference.
“I realized I could contribute by elevating the way we connect with the community,” she recalled. One of her earliest goals was to unify branding and marketing across the properties so people would recognize a cohesive voice reflecting Corpus Christi’s spirit.
Success isn’t just about running businesses for Reny; it’s about creating experiences. She is especially proud of her work at Concrete Street Amphitheater, where she’s overseen everything from booking national acts to ensuring flawless concert execution.
“From the first conversations with an artist’s team to the moment the crowd walks through the gates, every detail matters,” she said. “I always tell my team, ‘Imagine this is someone’s first concert. We get to usher them through this experience and make it one of the most memorable nights of their lives.’ That’s what motivates me.”
Her vision has paid off. Concrete Street continues to draw high-profile acts and remains a premier South Texas music destination. Just as importantly, concertgoers leave with stories that keep them coming back.
While her role carries visibility, Reny doesn’t shy away from the less glamorous parts of the job. She often pitches in behind the scenes, believing leadership is about participation, not position. “It’s important to know what every employee does,” she explained. “When you understand the work, you can jump in when needed. It also shows your team that you’re willing to do the work with them, not just direct from the sidelines.”
That hands-on approach has earned her respect across the organization. Wearing many hats—marketer, planner, brand strategist, motivator and so on—has taught her resilience and adaptability.
In Corpus Christi, Reny is recognized not only for her professional drive but also for her community commitment. She believes deeply in the city’s momentum and the leaders working to help it thrive. “Speak up when you have something to say,” she advised. “This community is one that will listen. Together, we can make Corpus a place where young people want to stay, build their roots and build their futures.”
That belief in Corpus’ potential keeps her energized, even when challenges arise. Obstacles are natural, she said, but focusing on the bigger vision helps her push through.
As a “Rising Star,” Reny knows this recognition isn’t just about her accomplishments so far, it’s about what’s ahead. In the coming year, she hopes to continue strengthening Durrill Properties’ brands and expanding the reach of its venues. Looking further out, she envisions Corpus Christi as a cultural hub where world-class music, food and community converge.
Her hope is to inspire others, especially young professionals, to see leadership as both accessible and influential. “If I can show that you can step in, work hard and make a difference, even early in your career, maybe it opens doors for others to do the same,” she reflected.
Receiving the 2025 HER Award for “Rising Star” is humbling for Reny but also motivating. It’s recognition of the path she has forged and a reminder of the legacy she carries. But most of all, it symbolizes the future: the opportunities to keep shaping experiences, building community and proving that the next generation of leaders is ready to rise.
“I care so much about our brand, our businesses and this city,” she said. “This award means a lot personally, but it also reminds me of the responsibility I have to keep pushing, keep growing and keep contributing to Corpus Christi.”
With her reverence for the past and vision for the future, Avery Durrill Reny is doing just that. Lighting the way for others while making her own mark as one of Corpus Christi’s brightest rising stars.
written by KIRBY CONDA
Humanitarian DR. AMY MINTZ
Arare combination of empathy, humility and fierce determination, Dr. Amy Mintz is the type of person who keeps a bag of dog food in her trunk in case she comes across a stray in need of a meal. In the corner of her office, a Hobby Lobby bag overflows with materials for an upcoming child development workshop she’s leading for one of her many volunteer organizations. Playful yet purposeful, Mintz creates threads of change and growth, contributing meaningfully to the ecosystem around her through an intrinsic motivation to care for her community.
Born in Alice and raised in Corpus Christi, Mintz’s journey through various degree paths reflects her quest for passion and purpose. Finding her place in human development and family sciences, she was captured by the study of our developmental history: who we become and how every experience, beginning at birth, shapes the people we are today.
Her doctoral program at the University of Texas at Austin emphasized the ecosystems of environments that influence us. “It all has an impact on us as human beings: media, culture, family, parents, school, friends and so on,” she said of her awe of the field.
When she moved back to Corpus Christi with her now husband, she took a teaching position at Del Mar College in the Child Development/Early Childhood program. Years later, she’s now the program director, a role she admits she was nervous to take on. But if you know Mintz, you know she will always step up to the plate.
“When I started thinking about it from the angle of how I can deliver high-quality education at the college level, so they can deliver high-quality education at the younger child level,” she said, “that really made me excited about the role.”
Mintz’s devotion to education transcends personal ambition. Her role at Del Mar accentuates her mission to elevate early childhood education; the program is the only one south of San Antonio accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Currently, she’s working on developing new academic courses under the Open Educational Resources initiative, and her efforts are likely to empower countless educators nationwide.
Her dedication extends beyond academia into community service, and her passion for enhancing children’s quality of life and learning environments is also clear through her philanthropic efforts. “I consider myself a very nurturing person, a caregiver. So, in my profession, I am focused on nurturing and training future caregivers, but I also want to be a caregiver to my community,” she said.
Serving on the board for the Coastal Bend Association for the Education of Young Children, she provides professional development opportunities to childcare educators. United Way of the Coastal Bend’s Success by 6 Early Childhood Initiative is also close to Mintz’s heart. The program aims to reduce barriers that may prevent children from experiencing healthy, safe learning
environments. Working collaboratively, Success by 6 focuses on the whole child’s needs—their physical, intellectual and emotional health—and prepares families and childcare workers to provide the support and education required to succeed.
Mintz’s caregiving ethos is lent to other organizations such as the American Cancer Society, Paws and Claws of the Coastal Bend, Foster Angels of South Texas, Ronald McDonald House Charities of South Texas and Women’s and Men’s Health Services.
Drawn to being a voice for the voiceless, she is particularly proud of her recent work with Paws and Claws. After realizing its main giving event, Fur Ball, had gone dormant, Mintz, along with the hardworking Paws and Claws team, made it a priority to help bring it back this past year, resulting in almost double the amount of funds ever raised before.
Her involvement with the American Cancer Society is personal. She has long been involved with the organization, having previously co-chaired the annual Cattle Baron’s Ball and the Couture for a Cure Style Show, which honors patients and their caregivers.
“This event acknowledges people who play such a huge role in cancer warriors’ stories,” she shared. “I myself have had family members diagnosed with cancer, and in being a caregiver for them, I later realized where I fell short.”
This experience deeply affected Mintz, challenging her sense of self as a lifelong caregiver and reshaping her approach. The most valuable lesson she learned through this experience—one she now applies when deciding where her time and resources go—is that sometimes, you aren’t the best person for the job.
“I’ve always had this mindset of, ‘If I’m not going to do it, who’s going to do it?’ So, you step up to the plate when needed, and sometimes through that, you realize, ‘I’m not even in the batter’s box. I’ve stepped to the plate, but I am failing miserably at this.’ And that is hard to admit to yourself and to others.”
Her balancing act is now about preserving energy for longterm dedication to community and personal goals, ensuring her resources are harnessed wisely without succumbing to burnout. “Prioritizing what you can do without burning out your candle is really, really important,” Mintz said. “And not losing sight of your original goal or reason for being involved.”
When asked about how she measures the true influence of her work, her answer is simple: “When people start talking. It might not be that we raised lots of money, but if the community becomes aware of the needs these organizations serve, then that alone is an impact I am proud of.”
Mintz’s legacy will not merely be one of fulfilling roles, but of aligning values and ambitions with actions. Empowering others to see worth in caregiving for our community in their own ways intertwines with the idea of our developmental history: Since each interaction we have throughout life leaves a mark, why not ensure it’s a good one? After all, the ripple effects on improving others’ lives can be tremendous.
written by KYLIE COOPER
Leading the Way in Modern Healthcare
Cooking With Purpose
Former HER honorees share their favorite family recipes
By Kayla Butts MS, RDN, LD Photos by Rachel Benavides
Two talented women—both making a difference in their local community— share their favorite recipes that nourish the body and the soul.
Angelica Vela, a 2018 honoree, shares a recipe rooted in love and tradition: her chicken enchiladas, inspired by memories of her mother’s kitchen. “I’ve always believed there’s something really special about home-cooked meals, not just because they’re healthier, but because they bring people together,” Vela said. She fondly remembers the comforting aroma of her mom’s arroz con pollo filling their home. “That dish was more than just dinner, it was comfort, love and tradition all in one.” We think you’ll find her enchiladas capture that same magic.
Renita Newton, PhD, LPC, CSH, a HER 2024 honoree, shares a favorite among family and friends (and our new favorite too): her signature Lobster Mac and Cheese. A standout at the Islander Top Chef competition, this rich, indulgent dish wowed the judges and earned praise from Chef Jonathan Zaragoza himself. Newton’s passion is evident in every gooey bite. “Every dish I make is truly made with love.”
RECIPE
Adelina’s Favorite Enchiladas by Angelica Vela Makes 12 enchiladas
PREP TIME: 15 minutes
COOK TIME: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
1 tablespoon avocado oil
1/2 yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 cup chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
3 cups chicken broth
3 tablespoons tomato paste
1 pound shredded chicken
2 cups shredded Mexican-style cheese, divided
1 (12-count) package corn tortillas
DIRECTIONS:
Heat oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic in oil until fragrant and the onion is translucent. Add flour. Cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly. Add chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano and salt. Cook for 30 seconds, whisking constantly.
Add broth gradually, whisking constantly. Add tomato paste and whisk until smooth. Bring to a simmer. Remove from heat.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine chicken, 1/2 cup of sauce and 1/2 cup of cheese in a large bowl and mix well.
Wrap the corn tortillas with paper towels and microwave on high for 30 seconds.
Dip both sides of each tortilla in the sauce in the skillet to coat lightly. Spoon equal portions of chicken mixture onto each tortilla and wrap tightly to enclose the filling. Arrange seam side down in a baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over the enchiladas. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
Bake for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted. Garnish with chopped cilantro, sour cream and avocado slices. Serve immediately.
Boil pasta until al dente (approx. 10-12 minutes).
Lobster tails:
Cut lobster tails in half and season with garlic powder, spicy chili powder, salt and pepper.
In a medium saucepan sauté the lobster tails in a liberal amount of butter.
Remove the lobster tails from the pan, reserving the butter for the roux.
Remove the lobster meat from the shell, coarsely chop and set aside.
Cheese Sauce:
In a medium to large saucepan, melt butter over medium-high heat.
Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour.
Add in heavy cream and shredded cheese blend, then whisk until cheeses are melted. Drizzle in butter reduction from lobster tails and whisk until well combined.
To a large bowl, add elbow pasta and pour the cheese sauce over the pasta. Stir until well combined.
Add lobster meat and fold in until well combined.
To a casserole dish, add the pasta mixture and top with shredded cheese blend, panko bread crumb, dried basil or parsley and Old Bay. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
Pumpkin Spice Treats
Celebrate pumpkin spice season with treats that showcase the flavors of fall
By Jacqueline Gonzalez
by Deux Boheme
FIKA MICROBAKERY
Pumpkin spice season is here, and local spots are serving up festive treats to pair. From cozy lattes to decadent desserts, there are plenty of ways to savor this seasonal favorite.
Pumpkin Churro Danish
FIKA MICROBAKERY
Filling a danish with pumpkin cream cheese and rolling it in cinnamon sugar creates a balance of tangy, sweet and spiced flavors. Mascarpone chantilly cream, pumpkin spice and salted maple candied pecans finish it with richness and crunch.
4411 S. ALAMEDA ST.
Pumpkin Monster Macarons
COOKIE & CRUMB
Crisp, chewy shells surround a swirl of pumpkin spice Swiss meringue buttercream in this oversized macaron. The texture is delicate yet indulgent, offering both sweetness and spice in every bite. Larger than the traditional version, it is festive and playful, delivering all the charm of fall in a single treat.
1220 AIRLINE ROAD SUITE 140
Pumpkin Amber Lager
NUECES BREWING CO.
Brewed with pumpkin and a blend of spices, this lager balances malty sweetness with a crisp finish. The flavor is bold but smooth, making it approachable and festive without being overwhelming. Each sip captures the warmth of the season and pairs perfectly with cool fall evenings on the brewery's patio. 401 S. WATER ST.
Pumpkinhead
CREATURES COFFEE CO.
A double shot of espresso blends with pumpkin spice, pumpkin sauce and milk, then gets a sprinkle of cinnamon. With a flavor profile that is simultaneously strong and aromatic, smooth and sweet, each sip of this seasonal drink offers an energizing boost and comforting notes.
COFFEE TRUCK
Pumpkin SmoothieSpice Bowl
VINE JUICE CO.
Discover more pumpkin spice treats on thebendmag.com.
Blended pumpkin, banana, vanilla and maple create a creamy base that is naturally sweet and full of flavor. Fresh banana slices, crunchy granola and pumpkin seeds add layers of texture. Nutritious, refreshing and deliciously spiced, this bowl is both wholesome and indulgent. 5702 S. STAPLES ST.
Photo
The Mozzafiato Way
With brick-oven pies and warm hospitality, this new pizza joint has quickly become a local favorite
By Jacqueline Gonzalez
Photo by Jason Page
Mozzafiato Pizza, which opened in June, became one of Corpus Christi’s most talked-about restaurants over the summer. The space carries a cozy neighborhood feel, with red and white checkered tablecloths and soft light spilling through the windows at just the right level to keep the atmosphere warm and intimate.
From day one, the restaurant has drawn a loyal following. “The community has been incredibly supportive,” said Mark Milligan, owner and operator. “We’re still new, but people see how hard we work, and they keep coming back.” Word of mouth and social media buzz spread quickly, and the hospitality and quality of the food have already cemented Mozzafiato’s reputation.
Milligan’s background in restaurants gave him the tools to step into ownership, but pizza was what inspired him to create something of his own. He was drawn to its simplicity and the joy it brings when shared.
“Pizza makes people happy,” he said. “It’s a meal that can bring friends or families together around one table, and if the product is good,
Due to the restaurant’s limited size, parties must consist of no more than 12 people.
the atmosphere just follows.” Mozzafiato reflects that vision with a menu that balances creativity and tradition.
At the heart of the menu is the brick oven, which cooks from the bottom up to achieve a perfectly crisp, golden crust without overpowering the toppings. Luis Sandoval, culinary artist and operating manager, explained, “The oven we have allows us to control the heat so much better. It gives every pizza that crispier bite while keeping the flavors balanced.”
Building on that foundation, the pizzas are made with old-school, fromscratch methods. There are no shortcuts or added sugars, just traditional dough,
fresh ingredients and carefully chosen cheeses that deliver flavor without the heaviness of overly greasy pies.
Among the customer favorites are the Giardino d’Italia, loaded with roasted garlic, spinach, mushrooms and red peppers; the La Carne, a hearty creation piled with Italian sausage, pepperoni, ham and meatballs; and the Harbor Bridge, where sausage, ricotta and cherry tomatoes shine against fresh basil. These pizzas highlight the range of flavors Mozzafiato offers. The option to create your own pizza allows patrons to choose from a wide range of toppings while still enjoying that signature crispy crust from the brick oven.
Beyond pizza, the menu features scratch-made mozzarella sticks, salads and standout desserts like the signature cheesecake. “We love seeing someone take that first bite of our cheesecake,” Milligan shared. “Their eyes widen, and you just know we’ve given them something special.”
With a thoughtful wine and beer selection and plans to expand into pasta dishes, Mozzafiato aims to continue growing while keeping its focus on flavor and hospitality. For Milligan, the work goes beyond the kitchen. He makes it a point to stop by tables and get to know customers by name.
Together, Milligan and Sandoval bring a passion for food that blends scratch-made freshness with toptier hospitality. “We don’t try to overcomplicate it,” Sandoval said. “It’s about letting quality ingredients shine and putting care into every dish.”
REJUVENATE YOUR EYES WITH IPL THERAPY
CONTACT
924 S. Staples St. | @mozzafiatocc mozzafiatocc.com
A Seat at the Table
Women business owners are shaping the flavors that define our community’s food and drink scene
By Lauren Pieper Photos by Rachel Benavides
Corpus Christi offers a wonderful mix of trendy and tasty eateries. Behind a wealth of these local favorites are female entrepreneurs whose vision, creativity and commitment bring excellence and flavor to the Coastal Bend.
Lucy’s Snackbar, Co-owned by Jessica Gignac
Co-owned by siblings Jessica Gignac and Justin Ganain, Lucy’s is a trendy go-to for locals to grab a quick bite, get work done or catch up with friends. The snackbar serves coffee, small bites such as mini charcuterie boards and heftier meals like the Damn Sandwich, and boasts an impressive beer and wine selection. Gignac previously owned the coffee shop Eleanor’s and later established The Gold Fish, showcasing her creative, stylish vision that has brought iconic gems to downtown Corpus.
312 N. CHAPARRAL ST. STE. A
PKK, Co-owned by Katina Stith
Founded by Dr. Maurice G. Portis, PKK has served decadent soul food and culture to the Coastal Bend since 2003, wrapped in warm Southern hospitality. Now owned by Katina and U.S. Air Force veteran Joseph Stith, PKK continues nourishing the community through comfort. As a respected business owner, human trafficking advocate and Black Chamber of Commerce member, Katina ensures no one’s body or soul is ever hungry. PKK’s standouts include smothered pork chops, fried chicken and turkey with homemade dressing. 213 S. CHAPARRAL ST.
The Annex, Owned by Caitlin & Kallia Shook
Established by sisters Caitlin and Kallia Shook in 2023, The Annex brings craft cocktails and good energy to downtown Corpus. To honor their father Steven Shook’s legacy, they transformed a warehouse into an automotive-themed bar filled with nostalgic memorabilia. They host unique community events like Chicken Shiz Bingo and a monthly plant swap, and The Annex frequently adds signature cocktails, with a Tiramisu Cold Brew Martini as a recent highlight. 312 S. CHAPARRAL ST.
The Cookie Plot, Owned by Graciela Schlater & Sarah Benavides Open since July 2025, The Cookie Plot is a welcoming space for book, coffee and sweet-treat lovers. The owners merged a romance bookstore concept with a bakery, creating a storefront that embraces trending romance novels and fosters a community perfect for book clubs. Made with locally sourced Driftwood Coffee, standout fall menu items are the Honey Spell Latte—white mocha, honey and cinnamon cold foam—and the S’mores gourmet cookie. 5830 MCARDLE ROAD STE 11
Driftwood Coffee, Co-owned by Ashley Medina
Ashley Medina joined the Driftwood Coffee team in 2020. In 2024, she and Jordan Medina became official owners, and ever since, Ashley has put in many hours of hands-on work crafting quality roasts and specialty drinks. Her TikToks reflect her passion and knowledge, attracting a strong female customer
LUCY'S SNACKBAR THE ANNEX
base and staff. A current specialty is Driftwood’s Cinnamon Spice Latte, made with cinnamon brown sugar syrup and pumpkin spice sugar. 4703 S. ALAMEDA ST.
Tortuga’s Saltwater Grill, Fins Grill & Icehouse & Mac Daddy’s BBQ, Co-owned by Beth Owens
Beth and Kelly Owens have spent over 30 years building Port Aransas dining staples for locals and tourists, from elevated seafood to mouthwatering BBQ. Beth credits her leadership to inspiration from her single mother. With their two daughters and son, the family delivers holistic food experiences to Port Aransas. This year, they earned the Texas Restaurant Awards’ Restaurateur of the Year for outstanding service fueled by highquality ingredients and savory dishes at Fins Grill & Icehouse.
Bell’Aroma Café, Owned by Monica Mangiarulo
With roots in Chicago and Mexico, Monica Mangiarulo brings over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience to Bell’Aroma. Inspired by her mother and mother-in-law’s love for cooking and connection, Mangiarulo pours love, tradition and culture into everything she serves. Now opening a third location in Corpus Christi, Bell’Aroma features Chicago-roasted La Capannina espresso alongside concha breakfast sandwiches, savory paninis and specialty drinks like horchata and churro lattes and campfire cold brew.
711 N. CARANCAHUA ST.
Street Corner Kitchen, Owned by Sarah Flores & Sabrina Lozano
First launched as a food truck under the name Loli’s Streatery in 2021, sisters and business partners Sarah Flores and Sabrina Lozano reimagined the street corn concept with creativity and flair. As their menu and fan base grew, so did their vision, culminating in the opening of their first brick-and-mortar location in downtown Corpus Christi. Committed to keeping their brand rooted in the community that fueled their success, the sisters credit events like ArtWalk and Grow Local’s Farmers Market for helping them build a loyal following. With a soft opening slated for this month, their new space offers an even greater opportunity to gather, connect and share good food.
601 N. WATER ST.
FIKA, Owned by Jeannette Del Angel
Jeannette Del Angel brings over a decade of Texas culinary experience and a heartfelt mission to her cozy café. A proud Coastal Bend native, Del Angel bakes scratch-made pastries and artisan bread, and serves locally roasted coffee in the Swedish tradition of “fika”—a mindful break to recharge and reconnect. FIKA fulfills Del Angel’s long-held dream to foster communitybuilding and bolster her undeniable craftsmanship. Customer favorites include sourdough bread, housemade syrups and seasonal danishes like the apple crisp and pumpkin churro.
4411 S. ALAMEDA ST.
Trattoria Mamma Lina, Bellinos & Nueces
Whiskey Library, Co-owned by Susan Shaheen Inguaggiato
Since 2004, Susan and Francesco Inguaggiato have brought signature destinations to the Coastal Bend, including authentic Italian dining and a cozy cocktail lounge, creating intimate experiences for locals. Whether running front-of-house or mingling with customers, Susan loves celebrating life and Italian cuisine with her supportive community. Their newest Trattoria, Mamma Lina—named after Francesco’s mother—focuses on scratch-made comfort meals using imported pasta, plus bread and pinsa flour from Italy for standout dishes like housemade pinsa and lasagna.
Rebel Toad Brewing, Co-owned by Nathali Cavazos
Rebel Toad Brewing has successfully brought bold craft beers to Corpus locals since 2015. Owned by Nathali and Hector Cavazos, the independent 10-barrel brewery is known for standout IPAs, inventive sours and a welcoming vibe. With the Texas Craft Brewers Guild, Nathali is steadfast in supporting education, advocacy and helping other Texas breweries open their doors and thrive. Signature beers at Rebel Toad include Bionic Blonde, Abracahopra IPA, Liquid Haze and seasonal favorites like the Picklehead. 425 LOMAX ST.
STREET CORNER KITCHEN
AROUND THE BEND
pumped with Hurricane Alley Roller Derby
The Legacy of Las Hermanas Góngora
Corpus Christi is home to more than just one Tejano superstar
By Evelyn Martinez Photo provided by K Space Contemporary
Those walking down Starr Street will find themselves face-toface with a painted wall of striking colors. Tropical flowers and a light purple backdrop serve as adornments for the mural’s main attraction — the portrait of two sisters, guitars in hand, microphone at arm's length, posing and smiling in traditional Mexican garments. Las Hermanas Góngora, though only the size of one building’s walls, left behind a legacy in our Tejano music history of an immeasurable scale.
“The mural is in my top three of the 28 murals K Space has done,” said Michelle Smythe, executive director of K Space Contemporary and a close friend of Lupe Góngora‘s daughter, Belinda Edwards. “They were a groundbreaking female group who rose to success in the 1940s and ’50s, a notoriously patriarchal era when few women worked outside the home. We brought renewed attention to the sisters and are, in a way, giving them a second life.”
During the golden age of Mexican regional music, sisters Louisa and Lupe Góngora gained celebrity status within the same circles as the
superstars we still hear of today. Performing songs written by esteemed songwriters, alongside entertainers like Pedro Infante and Cantinflas, Las Hermanas Góngora swooned crowds from the heart of the Rio Grande Valley all the way to the Californian coast. Unlike their male contemporaries, however, the Góngora legacy remained something of an insider secret. The collaboration between K Space Contemporary and Axis Tattoo on the 2024 mural aims to bring attention to a history once lost to time.
Born and raised in Corpus Christi, the sisters came from a large family of 11. As the eldest, Lupe took care of her siblings. Music became a way for her to step out of the motherly role, learning to play guitar and sing
Visit the Las Hermanas Góngora mural located at 701 N. Chaparral St.
alongside her sister, Louisa. In their early teens, the duo sang advertisements for the local KWBU radio station and went on to perform across South Texas. By 1947, they recorded their first single with Falcon Records and began touring with the Teatros Carpas. These performances, usually with Stout “Strongman” Jackson, took them out of Texas and throughout the Southwest.
Belinda Edwards described her childhood as one of recognition and local stardom. Bar bands often brought her mother Lupe onstage, shouting, “We’ve got a celebrity in the house!” People went to their church in hopes of meeting the sisters and stopped by their family-owned restaurant, El Gallo, with memories and words of appreciation. Even Lupe’s husband, Juan Martinez, who passed away in 2007 after 50 years of marriage, fell in love with her voice on the radio before ever meeting her in person.
“She loved performing,” Edwards said. “Even at 100 years old, she’s still headstrong. She still acts like a star [when introduced to the public.]”
However, “it wasn’t always all rainbows and butterflies,” she continued. “Bad things happened with good things.”
As Indigenous, Hispanic women, they faced violence and vitriol on the road and in their own communities. It felt easy to hang up the dresses, chunky earrings and guitars in exchange for a steady income and building a family. Only when she got older and joined the Holy Family church as a Eucharist minister and musician did Lupe find herself reaching for the guitar again – although, as Edwards described, a family party never ended before her father requested Lupe sing for him.
Meticulously crafted by muralists Sandra Gonzalez and Malachy McKinney, alongside the help of volunteers and high school students from K Space’s Summer Mural Arts Program, the mural intertwines Edwards’ history in the city with that of her mother’s. Painted on the side of Axis Tattoo, one of two legacy parlors owned and operated by Edwards and her husband Bruce, the sweet memories of Las Hermanas Góngora’s days of fame and their influence on the Tejano music scene will no longer be left to hide in obscurity.
C. Dale Eubank, MD, F.A.C.O.G.
A Bout of Sisterhood
Get pumped with Hurricane Alley Roller Derby
By Darcy Stineman Photos by Benjamin Zaragosa
Though the mechanics and terminology are obviously different—it has bouts instead of games—roller derby has some similarities to football if both teams were playing offense and defense at the same time. A jammer is like the quarterback, and the star on her helmet is like the football, which gives her the jammer position and allows her to earn points by going around the track and passing as many opponents as possible. Blockers are the defense; their job is to stop the opposing jammer while helping their own jammer. A pivot is similar to a wide receiver or running back; she starts as a blocker, but she can also receive the star from the jammer to become the new jammer and gain the ability to score points.
Hurricane Alley Roller Derby, or H.A.R.D. for short, has been active in Corpus Christi for two decades. It began as a small social gathering in June of 2005, and became official on Halloween that same year.
Roller derby is a very social activity, and for President Monica Tijerina, life-altering. Her daughter, a long-time member of H.A.R.D., introduced her to the league. Initially, Tijerina was merely a spectator—her daughter’s biggest fan. However, when the mother’s worst nightmare was realized and her daughter passed away in 2011, she later joined the league to find comfort.
“I was surrounded by women who were very helpful and very nice, even though we like to hit hard and we kind of have this persona of being ‘mean,’ but we’re not,” Tijerina shared. “We’re kind of like a sisterhood. It's helped me deal with so many [hard moments] in life.”
Roller derby players tend to use stage names when they play. Tijerina’s daughter went by the name Vicious Vikki. Tijerina herself goes by Vicious Nikki to pay homage, which has landed her in some humorous situations. She said an opposing player who knew Vicious Vikki was initially aggressive toward her, thinking she “stole” the name before learning she was Vicious Vikki’s mother.
While H.A.R.D. began as a women-only league, Tijerina said the group is now open to all skaters. H.A.R.D. took a hit during COVID and
H.A.R.D practices Mondays and Wednesdays at Salinas Park.
had to go on hiatus; as such, the league has lost a lot of members. Tijerina decided to try to rebuild the league, keeping the same name while starting nearly from scratch.
“I have so much respect for the people that started this, and I love it,” she said. “I’m still keeping the name, but I just want to let roller derby grow and I want to invite everybody. I don’t care if you’re male or female, as long as we’re all skating together.”
Coming up on its 20th anniversary, H.A.R.D. has several opportunities to get involved. Players hand out flyers at ArtWalk every month, and they organize car washes occasionally to raise for the club. They hope to have a bout on or around Halloween, so keep an eye on their social media for more information.
Whether honoring the legacy of those who came before, welcoming new faces to the rink or cheering each other on through life’s toughest moments, H.A.R.D. thrives on camaraderie. The league’s greatest strength is the solidarity that keeps wheels turning and spirits lifted, proving that in this community, no one skates alone.
CONTACT
Hurricane Alley Roller Derby on Facebook h.a.r.d.official23@gmail.com
An Eccentric Early Artist
Louis de Planque photographed the people of Corpus Christi at its start
By Jillian Becquet
Before Doc McGregor, there was Louis de Planque. Born in Prussia in 1837, “Don Luis” was a creative through and through. Around the time of the American Civil War, de Planque immigrated to Matamoros, Mexico, and opened a photography studio in Brownsville.
With strong trade lines between the Confederacy and Mexico and the presence of soldiers, de Planque’s studio thrived by selling photographs. He photographed some of the highestranking Mexican military leaders of the era. In 1867, he suffered damage to both studios in a hurricane.
This led to his relocation to the Coastal Bend, with studios in Corpus Christi and Indianola, one of the largest port cities in Texas at the time. Tragedy struck again in 1875, and he and his second wife, Eugenia, narrowly escaped as they again lost his studio to a hurricane. After this second loss, he raised money to purchase new equipment and focused on his Corpus Christi studio.
“Don Luis” was well-known in town; he photographed everyone from families to military generals. He loved to party and loved city-wide celebrations, often showing up in eccentric costumes. No celebrity, local or visiting, could escape his camera.
He trained Eugenia as a photographer, and she is likely who captured this unique shot of the peculiar photographer himself. It’s thanks to her that we can witness what the people of Corpus saw of Louis de Planque and his flair for fashion.
Louis de Planque, as photographed by his wife, Eugenia, 1871. This photo is in the public domain in the United States because it was published before Jan. 1, 1930.
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