May 2017

AT WILD VEGGIE BOUQUET

BEAUTY AND TASTE

STRICTLY ENFORCED DRESS CODES DECIPHERED

THE TRENDIEST THAI FOOD IN TOWN

By: Caroline R. Freeman

By: Jarred Schuetze

By: Jinky Romero

S:R U N ME

M SU SIDE B2O 017 E IN ID GU

38 Local Secrets Revealed

2 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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4 The Bend

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2016 PADRE ISLAND BUSINESS of the YEAR [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

ARTISTRY BEAUTY

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Membership matters:

Dr. Gentile is member of the elite American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and others too many to mention.

He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Did you know that in most states including Texas, any licensed physician can perform cosmetic procedures without being Board Certified in Plastic Surgery? Cosmetic surgeons such as Dr. Gentile have completed rigorous training in facial plastic surgery and plastic surgery. It is incumbent upon YOU to check that your surgeon is indeed Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

WHY choose Dr. Gentile? …

He has over 30 years experience in Cosmetic Surgery. His surgery skills leave patients not only looking and feeling younger, but the true artistry of a skilled surgeon’s hand leaves patients with a more natural, youthful look. When you decide to have plastic surgery, it is because you want a specific outcome…and this outcome is dependent largely upon which plastic surgeon you choose.

Dr. Gentile has been practicing exclusively cosmetic surgery, as well as non-surgical cosmetic treatments for over 30 years employing the latest techniques. His concern for safety led him to develop the first in-office accredited surgical center in South Texas 20 years ago.

Dr. Herve Gentile is widely recognized as one of the nation’s top plastic surgeons with the nation’s highest credentials. He is nominated by the American Registry in the top 5% of America’s most honored professionals. Dr. Gentile is listed by Best Doctors©, Consumer Research Council of America©, and Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors© guide, as well as, many other professional accolades. All of these are chosen by an impartial resource that catalogs the top quality doctors after peer nomination with an extensive research and screening process.

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7

Contents

Monthly | Departments

MAY 2017 | The Hidden Gem's Issue

Around the Bend

Features

34

18 Style 20 Currents 21 Gift Guide 22 Conversation 24 5 Best 26 Giving Back

Hidden Gems

Destinations 30 Quick Trip 32 Local Discovery

Health 50 Be Well 54 Fitness

Home & Garden 58 Open House 62 Gardening

Out & About 68 Arts & Culture 70 Celebration 74 Social Hour

42

Cuisine

Guide

78 Farm to Table 81 Dining Guide 82 The Drink 84 The Dish

SUMMER 2017

Pryce Macon

History

90 Looking Back

ISSUE

01

CO RP US

I CH RI ST

E • PA DR

IS LA ND

• PO RT

AR AN

RO CK PO SA S •

RT

1

de inside

ui Summer G 8 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Copyright © 2017 Gemstone Media, LLC. The Bend: Coastal Life Magazine is published by Gemstone Media, LLC. No portion may be reproduced without express written consent.

Editorial or advertising does not constitute advice, but is rather considered informative.

Expressed opinions are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ownership.

THE PORT FOR LEISURE AND LUXURY

a legacy of style since 1955 Stroll from the seaside to lounge with the locals.

Enjoy a variety of upscale shops and boutiques.

Dine day or night at sidewalk

3636 S. Alameda St. T AY L O R C E N T E R

cafes and restaurants.

Blocks from Ocean Drive | 3850 S Alameda | Corpus Christi, TX AL E XIS HUNTER INTERIO RS | ANN TAYLO R LO F T BKK T HAI KITC HE N & BAR | CHICO’S | F O UR CHICKS IN THE PAR K

361. 452.3059 akenneyjewelry.com

FRANCIS CO’S SALO N | GO LDSMITH JEWELERS G RAY P HOTOGRAPHY | HANLEY • WO O D | HESTER’S CA F E JU L IAN G O LD | LIT TLE PAPER CROWNS | MARKET P IL AR FAS H IO N & F O LK ART | TALBOTS | THE PO ST

Located in Portland’s Exclusive Northshore Community...

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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9

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

CONTRIBUTORS: Justin & Kayla Butts Jo Anne Howell Caroline Randall Freeman Alexa Alley Alexis De Leon Jinky Romero Jillian Becquet Jacqueline Gonzalez Desiree Arnold John D. Coleman

ART DIRECTOR: Will Bowling PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick MANAGING EDITOR: Whitney Noble AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT: Stefanie DeWaters

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jason Page Gabriel Mancha Bryan Tumlinson Olesya Redina EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS:

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR: Rosana Knapick

jordan@thebendmag.com

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

MARKETING DESIGN: Jarred Schuetze

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

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Durrent

the essentials

Phone: 361.792.3606

SUBSCRIPTIONS: THEBENDMAG.COM

CONNECT WITH US @

thebendmag.com @thebendmag on Instagram and Twitter #CBLife

SPRING ESSENTIALS 1

What's your favorite hidden gem? #hiddencoastalbend

Four Chicks in the Park at Lamar Park

On the Cover

361.854.4446 fourchicksinthepark.com 10 The Bend

Jo on the Go is the Coastal Bend’s newest food truck from Island Joes Coffee and Gallery on Padre Island. Check out their Facebook to find out where this hidden gem will pop up next.

Photo by Bryan Tumlinson.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Improving the Quality of Life in the Coastal Bend since 1981

FREE Bundtlet when you present this ad

Moore Plaza 5425 S. Padre Island Dr, Suite 167 • (361) 980-1000 Expires 5/31/15. Limit one coupon per customer. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Redeemable only at the bakeries listed. Must be claimed in-store during normal business hours. No cash value.

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For over 35 35 years, years,the theCoastal CoastalBend BendCommunity Community Foundation has their Foundation hashelped helpedarea arearesidents residentsachieve achieve their charitable this time almost charitablegoals. goals.During During this time over$97 $93million millioninin non-profitt grants been non-profi grantsand andstudent studentscholarships scholarshipshave have been made.

For the past eight years, the Foundation hashas made. For the past seven years, the Foundation organized the last organized the Coastal CoastalBend BendDay DayofofGiving Givingwhich which last year million for yeartopped topped$2.13 $1.9 million for charities charitiesproviding providingneeds needs of the the most most vulnerable of vulnerablein inthe theCoastal CoastalBend.

Bend.If you If you would like to join with us please call 361.882.9745. would like to join with us please call 361.882.9745.

SHOP THE SUMMER COLLECTION AT

1700 State Highway 361, Suite E Port Aransas Texas 78373 361.749.1881

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11

May | Staff Note

Hours

Mon-Fri 11am - 2:30pm Sat-Sun 10am - 2pm

Catering Available 100 N Shoreline Corpus Christi, TX 78401 citrussssbistro@yahoo.com www.citrusbaybistro.com 361-882-2047

From the Desk of

Chris Knapick,

Director of Business Development

Describe what you do at The Bend Magazine?

May 11th 5pm - 7pm

My position at The Bend Magazine involves reaching out to local businesses and owners to find ways to help them meet a goal through connecting with our unique audience. That goal is different with every business owner. Our magazine would not exist without our advertisers. We look at them as partners in our mission to give The Bend Magazine to the Coastal Bend every month. We like to focus on local businesses as they represent the true heartbeat of our community.

What do you love most about summertime in the region?

Even though it is really hot here, I like the outdoors. Going to the beach is a must, especially in the early mornings and evenings when the winds are down and it is a bit cooler. The crowds are less during that time, as well, giving the opportunity to hear all the sounds of the beach: the birds and the waves.

What are some hidden gems you discovered this month?

Painting by Kitty Welsh-Dudics (On display April 7 - May 19)

Studio C Gallery, located within the Art Center of Corpus Christi, houses a variety of high quality, original artwork for your home or office, as well as, fine gifts and wearable art created by well respected Texas artists.

Studio C Gallery 100 N Shoreline Corpus Christi, TX 361-881-8325 www.studiocgallery.com

12 The Bend

Every month, the gems I find are the business owners and their stories. How they came to start their business and what they have found works to bring them success. The younger ones who are fearless and passionate about what they do especially inspire me to work harder every day.

What are your hobbies outside of work?

I love to cook, play music (piano and trombone), spend time outdoors walking, riding bikes and camping with my wife and the love of my life, Rosana.

What is your favorite thing about working at The Bend Magazine?

The opportunity to be a part of something so great. This magazine has had a huge impact on our community in a very positive way. People tell me all the time how much they love this magazine and how proud it makes them feel being a part of the Coastal Bend. I always wanted to be a part of something that had a positive impact on our growth and development here in Corpus Christi, and this is definitely a big part of that.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Rockport ...

your Destination for inspiration.

Photo by Local Photographer: Maria Nesbit, MariaNesbitPhotography.com

Waterfront Properties • Luxury Homes • Condominiums • Residential Homes • Rentals

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

thebendmag.com CAREER OPPORTUNITIES for Licensed Real Estate AGENTS.13 Join the TOP SALES Force in Aransas County!

May | Letter From The Publisher

More than Meets the Eye

Cheri Sperling 2016 Realtor of the Year

PHONE: 361.949.0101 CELL: 361.774.3171 EMAIL: sperling@coastline-properties.com

15361 Key Largo Ct. Corpus Christi, Tx 78418 Exquisite waterfront home just minutes to the Intracoastal Waterway and away from the noise and traffic. With numerous eye-catching details inside, and a massive covered sun-deck outside, it just doesn’t get much better!

3BD/2.5BA | 2,270 sq ft | $775,000

T

ucked away in a shopping center along 181 heading toward downtown from Portland is a used bookstore called Books Ink. This small, neighborhood shop would be easy to pass by if you weren’t looking for it. It’s one of my favorite hidden gems in Portland. The owner is very kind and helpful and gives away a free book every week to each child who comes in the door. My daughter and I will stop in every now and then to browse the children’s section after grabbing ice cream at Marble Slab. Recently, I was surprised to discover the store is about to celebrate its 13th anniversary. I can’t help but think about how many hidden gems there are around the Coastal Bend just like this little book store. Shops, restaurants, and getaways that have been around for years in our backyard, and yet there are so many people who have yet to discover them.

Our team had a lot of fun putting together our Hidden Coastal Bend feature this month. Helping readers discover all the great things the Coastal Bend has to offer is what we do year round. So in a sense, every issue is full of hidden gems. However, we decided to compile together as many as we could fit in one place. We want everyone to discover the plethora of secret spots and hidden gems right in our backyard. From outdoor adventures like the Crane House in Rockport, to dining experiences at the Del Mar Culinary School and pop up coffee shops at local farmer’s markets, there is just no end to the list of hidden gems we love.

One of my favorite bits of feedback I hear from readers is how they always discover something new about the area after reading the magazine. It encourages me to know that we are fulfilling our mission of helping our readers live the best life they can in the Coastal Bend. Even with all the beauty surrounding us, there is plenty more here to see and do than meets the eye. My goal is for all of these so called “hidden” gems to become discovered gems. Thanks for reading and be sure to visit us on the web at www.thebendmag.com to find out more. There is a lot happening right now in the Coastal Bend: secrets waiting to be unveiled and more hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Jordan Regas

In Loving Memory of Jerry Elkin Dorminy

VOTE AT THEBENDMAG.COM

14 The Bend

December 19th, 1925 - April 15th, 2017 We dedicate this issue to my wife's Granddaddy, Jerry Elkin Dorminy. He raised his family in Portland, and continued to be an asset to the community for almost 50 years.

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and he will be deeply missed.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Non-Surgical Skin Procedures Many times people inquire about facelifts and ways to “put them off.”

If a person is at an age before severe skin sagging, they typically don’t need a facelift. A good skin care regime and skin treatments can delay facelifts of treat the real problem which for many people is acne scarring, sun damage etc. Chemical peels, Microneedling and Microdermabrasion take off layers of skin and stimulate the collage to begin producing again thereby healing the skin and creating new skin. Depending on the procedure, during or after the procedure antioxidants and growth factors are applied to help the skin regenerate new skin. This gives a fresh, youthful appearance. This, combined with Injectables (such as Botox and Restalyne) and in office procedures can lead to more youthful, refreshed look. These are typically great treatments for people in the 20s-50s. After that, when there is too much extra skin, a facelift, necklift or blepharoplasty (eyelid lift) is necessary.

After you decide you want facial rejuvenation, the next step is to pick your plastic surgeon/Aesethtician. Our Licensed Aesthetican, Ashley Wendt, has over a decade of experience in chemical peels and other facial procedures. This is important because they are putting strong chemicals on your skin or using powerful machines and experiences is a must. We offer Microdermabrasion, Chemical Peels, MicroNeedling and Dermaplaning to name a few. A consultation for skin procedures is always free. Your medical team should be honest with you and tell you if surgery is the best option instead of injectables/inoffice skin procedures. It is very important to make sure your plastic surgeon is well trained, has completed his/her residency successfully and is board certified. In plastic surgery, a membership in the American Board of Plastic Surgery confirms that your surgeon has successfully completed residency, passed their board exams, and follow the high ethical and professional standards set by the organization. Not everyone is board certified. It is also important to make sure that you have a good rapport with your plastic surgeon and his/her office staff.

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele At The Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele, MD, FACS, who is a board certified plastic surgeon and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, we put the patient first and strive to provide the best care with the highest standards and the latest proven technologies at the best value. Dr. VJ, as he is known by many of his patients, has been performing these procedures in Corpus Christi for the past eight years. Dr. Vijay is a military veteran, from the United States Air Force, and is an active member of the Corpus Christi Community.

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele Where Beautiful Results & Experience Meet.

5826 ESPLANADE DRIVE, SUITE 101 CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS 78414 (361) 888-7417 CORPUSCHRISTIPLASTICS.COM [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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15

Serving South Texas Since 1947 Serving South South Texas Since 1947 1947 Serving Texas Since Charles Allen, DDS

ATRUST Healthy•Smile is a Beautiful Smile!

CONFIDENCE • CARE

Dr. Charles Allen has had the distinct gratification to age as a dentist during a time when technology has blossomed. Respecting the dentistry of his father Dr. William Allen, he is able to blend the skills and knowledge of the past with the technology of today. Dentistry is Allen virtually pain withGroup enteral conscious sedation the patient can be Providing Quality Comfort and Trust to the Coastal Coastal Bend.

Allen Dental Group is here here for you.

Providing ,,free and to the Bend.

Dental is for you. in a twilight sleep allowing Dr. Allen to restore most of the patient’s teeth in one visit.

Dr. Charles Allen has extensive experience in dental surgery, root canals, cosmetic dentistry and limited orthodontics. He served during Vietnam in the Navy dentist and is GENERAL DENTISTS: DENTISTS: GENERAL SERVICES: SERVICES: an accomplished sailor, windsurfer, pilot, scuba diver and most importantly a dentist • Comprehensive Care Care • Comprehensive Charles Allen, DDS. Charles Allen, DDS. that has 43 years of experience.

Veneers •• Veneers Sarah Pitarra, Pitarra, DDS. DDS. Sarah Dental Implants Implants Services: Prosthodontist: William Tinnell, Tinnell, DDS. DDS.General Dentists: •• Dental William Crowns •• Crowns · Comprehensive Care DDS. Sarah Medina, DDS Chad Allen, DDS, MS Alex Vial-Nadeau, Vial-Nadeau, DDS. Alex Teeth Whitening Whitening Teeth · Veneers Arnoldo X. Cuellar, ••DDS PROSTHODONTIST: PROSTHODONTIST: • Teeth Cleaning • Teeth Cleaning · Dental Implants Alex Vial-Nadeau, DMD Chad Allen, Allen, DDS, DDS, MS MSNancy Coll, DMD Chad and more! more! and · Crowns

Allen Dental Group is here for you.

· Teeth Whitening Charles Allen, DDS CORPUS CHRISTI CORPUS CORPUS CHRISTI CHRISTI PORTLAND CORPUS CHRISTI PORTLAND Corpus Christi: Portland: (361)Doddridge 854-7999 Rd. (361) 643-0416 525 Doddridge Rd. 6200 Saratoga Saratoga Blvd. #102 101 101 Cox Cox Dr. Dr. 525 6200 Blvd. #102 525 Doddridge Corpus Christi TX 361.854.7999 361.992.8900101 Cox Drive, Portland, 361.643.0416 361.854.7999 361.992.8900 361.643.0416

Alex Vial-Nadeau, D.M.D. Charles Allen, D.D.S.

(361) 992-8900 6200 Saratoga Blvd #102, Corpus Christi

allendentalgroup.co allendentalgroup.com allendentalgroup.com ALLENDENTALGROUP.CO ALLENDENTALGROUP.CO

361.651.1200

16 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

RoseCosmeticSurgery.com

Around the Bend MAY 2017

STYLE 18 CURRENTS 20 GIFT GUIDE 21 CONVERSATION 22 5 BEST 24 GIVING BACK 26

What’s Inside Mr. Kippy is the San Patricio County Children’s Librarian. Each week, he travels around to all the libraries in the county and hosts Mr. Kippy Story Time. Story Time promotes a love for reading, but also incorporates music, theater and unicycles.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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17

May | Style

BECAUSE NO ONE SHOULD WORRY ABOUT BEING UNDERDRESSED. By: Jarred Schuetze Photos: Rachel Durrent

Have you ever received an event invite that requires some specific dress code that leaves you feeling more than a little frantic? Don’t panic, you’re not alone. Terms like “semiformal” and “black-tie optional” continue to strike fear into the best of us. Here are a few specific expectations behind some of the most common and confusing dress code suggestions, so that you’re fully prepped for any and all of the fabulous events happening throughout the Coastal Bend.

BLACK TIE Evening Wear This is the most formal of the dress codes (aside from White Tie) and usually means the event is going to be held in the evening sometime after 6pm. The term ‘black tie’ applies more to men than women; however, it is very important to discern that your attire should definitely be appropriate.

FOR THE LADIES: Here is your chance to go a bit more elegant and wear a formal floorlength gown, or choose a posh cocktail dress. It is crucial to keep in mind the nature of the event when choosing dress length. When in doubt just think, what would the host wear?

FOR THE MEN: No exceptions, wear a tuxedo - equipped with a black bow tie, black vest or cummerbund. A pair of patent leather shoes are also a must.

For summer events, a white dinner jacket and black tuxedo trousers are acceptable.

18 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

FORMAL

SEMI-FORMAL

BUSINESS CASUAL

Black Tie Optional

Cocktail Attire

Professional Attire

The murkier of dress codes, this specific wording indicates that wearing something slightly less formal than black tie is acceptable.

FOR THE LADIES: You can wear anything from a long dress, elegant separates, to a formal cocktail number. When choosing a dress color, stay close to neutral or more muted tones.

FOR THE MEN: You’re given the option of a tuxedo or a formal dark suit, white shirt, and a conservative tie. Accessorize with a pair of formal cuff links, a pocket square and tie bar.

Arguably the most common dress code utilized. Take cues from the time of the event. Wear darker, more formal colors for evening affairs; opt for lighter colors and fabrics when attending a daytime event.

FOR THE LADIES: A stylish knee-length cocktail dress or a long, fashionable skirt and top.

When in doubt, wear the classic Little Black Dress (LBD) and dress it up with statement jewelry.

FOR THE MEN: A suit and tie, dark or light depending on the season and time of day. Add a pair of classy leather shoes, and you’re ready to go.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Know how to dress your best whether you’re attending an important business lunch or it’s just another day at the office.

FOR THE LADIES: A sophisticated pencil skirt or dress pants paired with a silk or button-down top. Complete with a pair of high heels and a smart blazer.

FOR THE MEN: Wear a pressed button-down or collared shirt, paired with khaki slacks or chinos.

If dressing in layers, sweaters, blazers, and sport coats are fail-safe additions.

Ties are optional. No blue jeans or sneakers.

thebendmag.com

19

Around the Bend | Currents

Currents By: Jarred Schuetze

Will Pedal for Beer

All the Rage this Season The Corpus Christi Rage is a new professional indoor football team and as of late 2016, a charter member of the National Arena League (NAL). The Rage, owned by local businessman Eric Smith, is the third arena/indoor football team to call Corpus Christi home, preceded by the Corpus Christi Hammerheads/Fury and the Corpus Christi Sharks. The team, coached by Steven Fillmore, began its inaugural season in the beginning of 2017. The Rage will be playing a handful of home games starting in May and continuing through the summer, so take your friends and family, grab a cold beer, and support your local football team. Rage on! ccrage.com 20 The Bend

A pedal-powered tandem party bike is now cruising the streets of the Coastal Bend. The Pedal Power Pub, from P3 Tours, has added Corpus Christi and Padre Island to its quickly growing list of operating cities. Grab your friends, stock up on beverages, and have your music playlist ready. Whether you’re sightseeing, bar crawling, or just searching for a fun way to travel on the weekends, The Pedal Power Pub is hard to pass up. The party bike can accommodate up to 14 people and is fully equipped with surround sound speakers, phone chargers, electric coolers and more than a dozen sets of bike pedals. At night, party lights come on to make your trip even more festive. Tour times are at 12 pm, 2:30 pm, 5 pm, 7:30 pm and 10 pm. Helmets are available for those who request them, but they are not required. You can also request a motorized tour and leave the pedaling for another day. p3tours.com/corpus-christi-tx

This BBQ Means Business Nestled in the east wing of Moore Plaza, the brand new Filipino BBQ joint, Kanto, has stomachs all over the Coastal Bend stuffed with approval. Joining the Coastal Bend’s competitive BBQ market, Kanto’s doors opened in late March, and since have been a bustling foodie hotspot. Featuring authentic Filipino BBQ, tasty sliders, rice-bowls and more, this eatery is taking the city by storm and serving it up on a mouthwatering platter. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, serving lunch and dinner. 5425 South Padre Island Dr. Suite 101-A, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Special Advertising Section

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21

Around the Bend | Person of Interest

Conversation with

Mr. Kippy Children’s librarian, Mr. Kippy, has entertained generations, spreading the love for reading.

By: Jordan Regas Photo: Rachel Durrent

When did you first discover your love for storytelling?

When I was little, my mom and dad told amazing stories. Reading was always a part of my life.

When did you decide to be a librarian?

At first, I got a bachelor’s degree in music, so I am not certified to teach. So I knew I would have to get more schooling. I went to Texas A&M Corpus Christi to get a master’s degree in interdisciplinary studies: music theater and art.

That really prepares you for nothing, except the job I am doing. I was teaching music at different schools, and I saw an ad in the newspaper that said, “Story Teller Wanted.” It sounded like it was something I could do on Saturdays or part time, but it was a full time, nine to five, county job. My immediate supervisor is the county judge, and I have to present a budget every year.

So it was a real job, and it was an amazing job.

That was in 1991, so this is the beginning of my 27th year.

How did the concept for Mr. Kippy Story Time come about?

There were some storytellers before me who were really popular. I didn’t want to be called Mr. Kippy; I thought that it was silly. But the teachers I worked with thought it would be funny. So I went by Mr. Kippy, and I started doing music, theater, and art. I was never one who could sit still for 30 minutes of reading. So I did song, book, song, book, and creative dramatics.

What libraries do you visit and about how many children a year do you read to?

I see on average about 40,000 kids a year from all over the county and their parents, too. Every week in Portland, it’s about 160 kids. There are some other libraries that are only about four

22 The Bend

or five kids on a given day, but altogether it’s about 40,000 a year. I visit the seven libraries in San Patricio County. I also visit the Head Starts if they can’t travel to the library, and I visit some of the elementary schools.

What other roles do you have as a children’s librarian?

At story time every week at every library, I help organize the summer reading program, which is just summer story time. I ride my unicycle in parades to represent the libraries.

I have a six-foot-tall unicycle. My job is just to get kids enthusiastic about coming to the library.

What do you love most about getting to be Mr. Kippy and telling stories every week?

The kids are really entertaining. There are times when I have been in a bad mood or had a bad night the night before, but kids are always exciting and interesting and funny, and I think that’s why I like doing it. There is something funny that happens at every story

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

time. Also, the reaction I get to the books. To see a kid get excited about a book makes me really happy. Even if it’s a book that I have read 900 times, it’s all worth it to look out there and see the kids hanging on every word and looking excited. I think that’s what I like best about it.

After 27 years of reading to kids, do you ever run into adults who used to attend Mr. Kippy story time?

I was at a barbeque place, and I met this man who probably weighed 300 pounds and stood six foot eight; he was a huge guy. As I’m ordering my dinner, he comes up to me and with a very deep voice, says, “Hey, remember me from Mr. Kippy Story Time, I was in Mrs. Peterson’s kindergarten class, you asked me to be the big bad wolf, I really liked that.” I told him he was the best big bad wolf we ever had and good job sir. It’s great meeting people who have gone to story time in the past, and it meant something to them.

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A

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Around the Bend | 5 Best

5

A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY

Best

Disc Golf The trendy leisure activity that’s sure to make your sunny afternoon a hole-in-one Words and photo by: Jarred Schuetze

1

Lamar Park

A local favorite, this compact city course features slight hills and wide open flight paths. Take a stroll through Lamar Park and test your skills at the nine holes. Try and complete it in 27 points, and you’ll achieve par. After an enjoyable game of disc golf, relax under the gazebo and let the kids run wild on the playground. 4231 Santa Fe St., Corpus Christi

2

West Guth Park

A challenging course, the West Guth Disc Golf Course features an impressive 20 duel-tee holes at a 60-point par. The course twists through shallow valleys and hills that are surrounded by moderate foliage. Make sure to bring your “A game” because this course, which boasts seven water adjacent holes, is notorious for stealing discs left and right.

9700 Up River Rd., Corpus Christi

3

Waldron Park

A beautiful and moderately wooded park, Waldron Disc Golf Course features a nine-hole

24 The Bend

development with a 27-point par. It’s a perfect choice for those who are trying to develop their game. Wear sensible socks and shoes to protect yourself from the large patches of Spiny Burr grass.

St. Francis Rd., Corpus Christi

4

Live Oak Park

One of the more difficult disc golf courses, Live Oak Park features 18 holes with a 65-point par.

Take the afternoon to play your way through this flat and heavily wooded course, but be careful not to lose any of your discs while trying to maneuver shots around the unforgiving pond. 1874 Port St., Portland

5

Port Aransas Community Park

A flat and lightly wooded beginner’s course, it features nine holes with a 27-point par. It’s an excellent choice for families with younger children who are looking to spend the afternoon enjoying quality time outdoors having fun. The course neighbors the Port Aransas community pool and recreational baseball fields. 700 Clark Pkwy., Port Aransas

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The early history of disc golf is closely tied to the history of the recreational flying disc and may have been invented in the early 1900s.

The first known instance of anyone playing golf with a flying disc occurred in Canada in 1926 when Ronald Gibson and his school buddies played a game throwing tin plates at targets such as trees and fence posts, which they called Tin Lid Golf. The modern disc golf that we know today started in the early 1960s when some colleges in the United States, such as University of Houston, began creating courses on campus, which eventually led to hosting disc golf tournaments and inviting other colleges to travel and compete.

Now In Lamar Park www.hanleywoodtexas.com

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Around the Bend | Giving Back Average number of hours it takes to clean 1 mile of beach is 2 hours with 25-30 people.

History:

Tired of the Trash Friends of Padre keep our beaches clean, one volunteer at a time By: Aaron Baxter Photos: Friends of Padre, Inc.

T

o Billy Sandifer, Padre Island is home. It is sacred ground. It is also covered in trash.

Twenty-two years ago, Sandifer decided to do something about it. The area known as the Big Shell, within the Padre Island National Seashore, is uniquely situated in an area where two major Gulf currents converge. The energy produced by this convergence lifts large shell fragments onto the beach giving this area its name. Unfortunately, it also brings ashore tons of trash, mostly plastics, each year. Some of this trash comes from the Gulf States, but it also washes in from Canada, Mexico, Cuba, and even Guatemala! This constant re-accumulation of trash has led many people to ask, “Why bother?” Billy likens it to making your bed, saying, “You know you’re just gonna mess it up again that night, but you make your bed every morning, anyway.”

In 1995, the first Billy Sandifer Big Shell Beach Cleanup took place. Sandifer, along with 300 volunteers, removed 50 tons of trash from 11 miles of the Big Shell that first year.

Except for 1998, the Big Shell Cleanup has occurred every year since. In 2008, Sandifer and Steve Naylor formed the nonprofit Friends of Padre, Inc. to maintain the beauty of Padre Island and to ensure that the Big Shell Cleanup would continue in perpetuity. Friends of Padre has grown in the years since its inception, and while the cleanup is still the group’s major focus, Friends of Padre has taken on new projects including participation in smaller scale cleanups and the Texas Adopt-a-Highway program on Padre Island.

26 The Bend

A typical Big Shell Beach Cleanup begins early, as volunteers are asked to arrive no later than 8 am on the last Saturday in February. Attendance is largely weather dependent, with better conditions resulting in more people. Volunteers with 4-wheel drive vehicles are put into “sections” consisting of approximately 30 volunteers and a Section Leader. These are the most experienced volunteers and are tasked with leading a section down range. Those without a 4X4 vehicle are placed with drivers who have additional passenger room. Each section is assigned a one-mile stretch of beach to clean. This takes roughly two hours and volunteers are brought back to the Malaquite Visitor’s Center where they receive lunch and a commemorative t-shirt. Over the years, these t-shirts have become a badge of honor for those who brave the elements to make a positive difference on Padre Island. On average, volunteer numbers range between 400-600, although for 2016 and 2017 volunteer numbers were 700 and 750, respectively.

The amount of trash removed averages 45 tons annually, but has been as high as 400 tons after Hurricane Ike. As a nonprofit, Friends of Padre, Inc. depends on donors and volunteers to accomplish their mission of preserving Padre Island. Without these businesses and individuals, the Big Shell Beach Cleanup would not be possible. Friends of Padre, Inc. would like to thank everyone who has shown support in the past and to encourage those who are yet to participate.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

In 1995, Billy Sandifer organized the first cleanup.

In 2008, Billy formed FoP. They are a diverse group of board members from Academia to construction to self employed with a mission to preserve Padre Island and its natural resources.

Their work is so important to our beaches and community because everyone likes to spend time on a clean beach. It also helps the environment and helps prevent possible ingestion or entanglement of trash by wildlife.What does a day out cleaning the beaches look like? Volunteers arrive early, then load into vehicles and are taken down the beach to clean. Then they are brought back for lunch and given t-shirts.The number of volunteers vary, but usually between 400-600 show up, depending on the weather.

They clean the last Saturday in February due to nesting season. So what can the public do to help? Show Up! Is there a “feel good” story to share that pertains to the good work they do? They’ve had a marriage result from the cleanup, and everyone has a sense of accomplishment by the end of the day.

Visit friendsofpadre.com for more information or to follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

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State Farm Lloyds, Dallas, TX

(361)884-4BBQ or hoegemeyers.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Destinations MAY 2017

QUICK TRIP 30 LOCAL DISCOVERY 32

What’s Inside Visitors and locals can enjoy a unique view of the Corpus Christi Bay this summer aboard the “Japonica” or the “Nell Betty II.” Guests are welcome to sit back and relax or learn the art of sailing.

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Destinations | Quick Trip

Movin’ & Groovin’ Festival 1:

Tour of summer music festivals

Good Vibrations Music Fest WHEN: May 20 4pm-12am

By: Alexa Alley

Music, in all its shapes and forms, has a way of bringing people together. The music festival culture, without a doubt, plays a pivotal role.

Beginning as early as 1967, music festivals originated as a way for new artists to showcase their talent.

From Folk music to Rock and everything in between, music festivals have evolved into a popular way for people to experience the music culture around them. So if you find yourself with a case of cabin fever this summer, take a quick trip to one of these various locations to broaden your music horizons, eat some good food, and maybe even discover your new favorite artist.

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WHERE: 1850 Settlement, San Antonio goodvibrationsmusicfest.com Existing not just for the typical music listener, The Good Vibrations Music Fest aims to provide a completely deaf accessible concert.

With Ben Rector as the headliner, the show is complete with live captioning, ASL interpretation, and a visual light show that will sync to the performances. Located on the spacious 1850 Settlement in San Antonio, spectators can also enjoy music from various other artists, food from local vendors, and products from local artisans all in partnership with AidtheSilent.com

Festival 2: Lone Star Jam WHEN: Memorial Day Weekend, May 27–28 WHERE: Travis County Expo Center, Austin lonestarjam.com

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Taking place on two stages over the course of the weekend, 20 bands including Pat Green, Aaron Watson, Casey Donahew and more will be performing for a two-day, fun-filled Memorial Day weekend in none other than Austin, Texas. Purchase a two-day pass, or a VIP pass with extra perks for maximum festival enjoyment. This festival offers the best of Texas Country in the heart of Texas itself; you won’t want to miss it!

Festival 3: 45th Annual Kerrville Folk Festival WHEN: May 25-June 11 WHERE: Quiet Valley Ranch, Kerrville

kerrville-music.com The longest continually running music festival in North America, the Kerrville Folk Festival has presented over 1500 singers and songwriters since its inception in 1972. For seasoned and budding artists alike, the festival welcomes and celebrates traditional folk, bluegrass, acoustic rock, blues, country, jazz and Americana talents.Situated around the banks of the Guadalupe river, visitors can also camp and enjoy guided canoe trips to take full advantage of all that the Texas Hill Country has to offer.

Festival 4: River City Rock Fest WHEN: May 27

CHIC TO CHIC HOURS: AM

Mon. - Sat. | 10

-4

PM

APPOINTMENTS & IN-HOME CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE.

526 EVERHART RD. CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78411

361.883.CHIC (2442) WWW.CHICTOCHICFURNITURE.COM

WHERE: AT&T Center, San Antonio rivercityrockfest.com Not your typical summer music festival, the River City Rock Fest specifically caters to those who love rock 'n' roll.

With an impressive lineup of legendary artists including Def Leppard, Papparoach, Taking Back Sunday and more, spectators will enjoy 11 hours of non-stop rock and a guaranteed good time. Visitors won’t be disappointed while getting to enjoy the city of San Antonio while listening to some good ol' rock 'n' roll.

Festival 5: Free Press Summer Fest WHEN: June 3-4 WHERE: Eleanor Tinsley Park, Houston fpsf.com With the city behind and lush grass all around, Eleanor Tinsley Park creates the perfect backdrop for this showcase of world-renowned talent. With an impressive lineup of artists including Lorde, Solange, Portugal. The Man, and more, spectators can enjoy the concerts at a baseline rate or upgrade to the VIP package to watch the artists front row. Either way, the Free Press Summer Fest combines urban environment, outdoor landscaping, good food and great music for the perfect summer music festival experience. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Destinations | Local Discovery

Did You Know?

1. Harrison’s Landing is named after Virginia’s most historical plantation during the Civil War.

Sailing in the Sights

2. Sailing was first popularized in Holland. The Dutch gifted a yacht to Charles II in England. Sailing became a main sport there and then expanded to America.

Family owned and operated, Harrison’s Landing serves up their own version of surf and turf.

By: Desiree Arnold Photos: Courtesy of Harrison's Landing

L

ocals and tourists can enjoy a lovely dining experience on land and then sail off to take in the sights. There are two boats to satisfy one’s nautical craving.

The Japonica, named after a Pleasure Pier touring boat from the 1930s, is a 50-foot touring boat that is open to the fresh sea air and offers a picturesque view of the downtown marina and the signature Corpus Christi locations. For more spectacular views, schedule the dolphin watching cruise. This is a seasonal schedule, so be sure to check first. The mornings are ideal to see them after the commercial fishing boats have returned from evening fishing.

If looking to do some fishing, then the Bay Fishing Charter is the way to go. It is a 3-hour fishing excursion that requires a minimum of three passengers and a maximum of ten passengers. Be sure to bring your own cooler for those keepers.

Enjoy an evening out to sea with the Full Moon cruise, or make reservations to celebrate special events on the Private Party cruise where you can be entertained by the live music of local musicians. These cruises are BYOB, and alcohol is allowed. Feel free to bring along your own Captain, which may go by the first name, Morgan.

The Nell Betty II is the other sea craft. She is a 38-foot sailing yacht that holds a maximum of six passengers. The Dutch originally called these boats yaghtschip, which is translated “hunting boat.” Over time, the name was shortened to yacht.

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Nell Betty II offers a two-hour bay cruise. It is perfect for an outing with the girls/guys or for date night. For a more private outing, partake in the Cruise and Dinner package. It is a two-hour sail paired with a three course dinner.

Curb curiosity and get hands on, sign up for the Intro to Sailing. Learn how to sail the open waters with interactive experience in the Nell Betty II. Whichever direction your sea legs want to go, jibe to Harrison’s Landing for a memorable experience.

108 People’s St. T-Head Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361-881-8503 ext. 2 info@harrisonlanding.net

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3. The term “Mind your P’s and Q’s” came from sailing.

As sailors weren’t paid daily, they would get credit at the watering holes in port until they were paid.

The barman would keep a record of their drinks, marking “P” for pint or “Q” for quart. On payday, the sailors were responsible for each drink, and forced to “mind his P’s and Q’s.” Today the term means to remain well-behaved.

RockpoRt pRopeRties, inc Waterfront Specialists

14 La Buena Vida | $2,250,000 | MLS# 126990

22 Albatross | $2,750,000 | MLS# 127494

Extensively remodeled in 2015-dramatic custom built Estate home on 2 waterfront lots in gated La Buena Vida. Water views throughout w/ domed ceiling. 7BR/5BA, fireplace, chef’s kitchen, granite island, wet bar, outdoor kitchen, separate guest suite. HUGE Master Ste w/soaking tub, exercise room. Boat dock & lift. Perfect home for entertaining.

This stunning Key Allegro estate is perched on the point location at the last canal before Aransas Bay and the intra-coastal waterway. This striking home features only the finest luxuries and amenities from the sparkling, multilevel pool, to custom Japanese clay tiled roof. Nothing was overlooked to create the finest in comfort and relaxation.

2503 Turkey Neck | $1,995,000

1 Blue Heron | $2,235,000

13 La Buena Vida | $1,395,000

Waterfront Harbor Oaks Haven meticulously renovated/expanded in 2014. 5 Bed/6.5 Bath, Lavish kitchen w/copper vent hood, Subzero, Thermador 6 burner gas cooktop, oversized granite island. 10,000 sf Clear Heart Cedar Deck, dining pavilion, outdoor lounge, heated pool. MLS# 125967

Waterfront entertaining at its finest. Paradise on the bay and canal. Panoramic views from the wrap around deck. Home has 7BR/6.5BA. Numerous wetbars, boat dock, boatlift, boathouse, guesthouse, private beach, swimming pool, hot tub and the Crowning touch- A Cabana Bar with huge pavilion deck! MLS# 126825

Custom-built Mediterranean home featuring 4BR/4.5BA allows plenty of entertaining space for large family or corporate retreat. Oversized granite bar, commercial kitchen, infinity pool, huge outdoor space with kitchen, all Saltillo tile on main floor, spacious bedrooms upstairs with water views, and an elevator. MLS# 127075

232 Reserve Ln | $949,000

45 Jefferson Ave | $899,000

720 Beach Access Rd 1-A | $835,000

Boardwalk at St Charles Bay. Masterfully designed waterfront retreat. Custom 3/3.5 home, impeccably designed and perfect for entertaining. Features include 24’ stained wood plank ceilings, Pella windows & doors. Community pool, boardwalk and pier. MLS# 127431

Port Lavaca Alamo Beach. Spectacular, custom-designed Mediterranean home with exceptional open bay view on the shore of Lavaca Bay. Has infinity pool and private pier.

Home is hurricane resistant, and energy efficient. MLS# 126902

Sunrises like you’ve never seen from your ocean view Master Suite. Private 1600 sf. roof-top patio. Panoramic views second to none. 3BR/ 3BA offered fully furnished including furniture, appliances, artwork and electric storm shutters.

Amenities include 2 pools, tennis courts and beachfront. MLS# 126834

2315 Hwy 35 N Rockport, TX 78382 | 361.729.6500 | www.rockportproperties.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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WHETHER YOU CAME FOR THE BEACHES, OR MOVED FOR WORK, TAKE IT FROM A NATIVE, THE COASTAL BEND IS A SECRET GARDEN OF FOOD AND DRINK, CULTURE, OUTDOOR, AND SHOPPING EXPERIENCES.

By: Alexis De Leon Photos: Rachel Durrent Art: John D. Coleman

34 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

OUTDOOR BAY EDUCATION CENTER

121 Seabreeze Dr., Rockport, TX 361-749-6711 utmsi.utexas.edu/visit/bay-education-center Free and open to the public, a trip to the Bay Education Center funded by the University of Texas at Austin Marine Science Institute is a must see.

Open Tuesday-Saturday, stroll at your leisure to enjoy hands-on exhibits including a 3D model of Earth called Science On a Sphere, and check out the current water quality in our bays.

VERNON'S BAR 1030 3rd St., Corpus Christi, TX 361-882-0030 @vernonsbar A landmark dive bar in Corpus Christi, Christi serving, lunch, and dinner. Come have a drink (or three) with the locals.

Enjoy pint night every Tuesday, live music on the weekends, and a free pool. Dogs are welcome, and bar goers can enjoy free popcorn and peanuts.

THE CHURCHYARD City Church Campus, 4425 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX 512-417-2783 thechurchyardcc.com This is an outdoor music venue that produces family-friendly concerts for the community. The atmosphere is casual, and it's large enough for audiences of 500 people.

Though they are a non-alcoholic establishment, light refreshments are offered for all shows. No outside food and drinks are permitted. Seating is provided by the venue when appropriate for the concert.

SKI CANALS Bring your boat, cooler, fishing gear, and floaties to the Ski Canals. Located on Padre Island just across from the Padre Balli Park, enjoy some fun in the sun on the bay side of the Gulf. For more information, search “The Ski Canals” on Facebook.

THE HISTORY CENTER CRANE HOUSE

801 E. Cedar St. at Church St., Rockport, TX 361-727-9214 aransashistorycenter.org

361-729-7239 cranehouseretreat.com/info.html Enjoy a privately-owned nature preserve that borders on the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. A place where artists, writers, birders, and photographers can enjoy all the comforts in the two bedroom, two bath bungalow with a big screened-in porch, comfortable rocking chairs, and plenty of additional seating for your comfort.

SECRET MENU

SHOPPING

SECRET PICNIC SPOTS A magnifying glass revealing a latte.

A coastal shopping bag filled with beachy items.

CULTURE

Tucked away in a residential area, this beautiful reconstruction has a lovely garden and gazebo, perfect for photo opportunities!

Admission is free with tours often given with people in period dress. Exhibits rotate through the center.

DOLPHIN FEEDINGS AT THE AQUARIUM

The Lexington wrapped in 3D glasses.

OUTDOORS

Zachary Taylor Park and Arboretum located at 702 S. Pearl St. is a beautiful place for picnics, or a nice place to enjoy the scenery, read a book, draw, or paint. Also, try Hooper's Landing for a secluded picnic or fishing spot. Take Highway 35 N. and turn right on FM 774 then another right on FM 2040, look for the Hooper’s Landing sign. Stop at the last house on your left for information and a cold drink.

The Big Tree in Rockport.

2710 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 361-881-1230 texasstateaquarium.org Ever wonder what it’s like to see a Dolphin eat? Visit the Texas State Aquarium and catch the dolphin show presented twice daily.

THE BIG TREE IN ROCKPORT 202 S. Palmetto St., Rockport, TX 361-729-2858 TPWD.Texas.gov One of the largest living oak trees in Texas and the nation, “Big Tree” is estimated to be well over 1,000 years old. The trunk’s circumference measures about 35 feet with a height of 44 feet. You can find it in Goose Island State Park.

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Street Art N. Mesquite St. at Schatzell St. Take a walking tour of downtown Corpus Christi to soak up the local street art. The Caller Times building unveiled their locally created mural. Stroll down Starr Street and visit the various works of art that line the street. Between Starr and Antelope streets lies the massive Loteria mural. The entrance to the tunnel in La Retama Park opens its gates to the tunnel on the first Friday of every month for the Artwalk. The tunnel is lined with art on the short walk from downtown to uptown. Bonus: Look a little further toward Lower Broadway Street to see the Queen of the Sea, Corpus Christi’s first public work of art.

CULTURE

36 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

CORPUS CHRISTI RIDE-IN THEATER 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, TX 361-884-2992 @ccrideintheater Bring a blanket and the family for free viewings of movie classics under the stars provided by the Spokespeople and Corpus Christi Ride-In Theater. Movies for May-July respectively include: Mannequin, The Outsiders, and Teen Witch. Movies take place once a month at the Water Gardens on the lawn of the Art Museum of South Texas.

g chy

3D MEGA THEATER INSIDE THE LEXINGTON 2914 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, 361-888-4873 usslexington.com/visitor-center/mega-theater/ The Joe Jessel 3D MEGA Theater, built in the original forward aircraft elevator space aboard the USS Lexington, takes audiences on amazing journeys in sight and sound, immersing you in three-stories-tall, giant screen 3D images, and thundering digital sound. Free with admission to the ship.

HERITAGE PARK HOUSE TOURS HIDDEN TINY LIBRARIES What began as a Girl Scout project, Little Free Libraries (LFL) caught on around Texas. Elizabeth Longo donated 5 LFL to the city of Portland including one in Bayside Park. However LFL can be found in many neighborhoods around Corpus Christi, including the Lakes subdivision. Keep your eyes open for what look like tiny homes on poles.

Chaparral St., Corpus Christi 361-826-3410 Take a look into what living in Corpus Christi was like for some by visiting Heritage Park and taking a tour of a few of the homes. Grande-Grossman House is currently home to the Tejano Civil Rights Museum, which is free to the public and open on weekends. The Galvan House hosts local art exhibits, and The Ward-McCampbell House and The Littles-Martin House are currently home to local organizations.

TAMU-CC PERFORMING ARTS THEATRE

SCIENCE AND HISTORY MUSEUM, 2ND FLOOR

6300 Ocean Drive. Box office 361-825-5800 cla.tamucc.edu/ theatre/index.html

1900 N. Chaparral St., Corpus Christi 361-826-4667 @ccmuseum

Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Theatre Program provides students with the tools needed for preparation as theatre educators or professional practitioners.

To support their mission and enjoy local theater, visit the University Theatre located in the Center for the Arts building (next door to the Performing Arts Center) on the TAMU-CC campus.

Looking for a deeper glimpse into South Texas history, visit the second floor of the Science and History museum for a tour of the Kenedy Gallery. The Museum engages and educates the public in science and history through exhibits and programming to inspire curiosity.

DONATION-BASED WINE AT AURORA THEATRE For more information, visit auroraartstheatre.com/temphome-227044.html The Aurora Arts Theatre is a nonprofit community theatre located on the southside of Corpus Christi. While snacks and drinks can be purchased at the concession stand, the wine is “donation” based. Check out Sister Act and enjoy your vino. [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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REPUBLIC OF TEXAS SECRET WINE ROOM

FED BY BREAD 361-239-8025 fedbybread.org @fedbybread

361-886-3515 @RepublicofTexasCorpusChristi

Give back to impoverished children in Africa by shopping local and purchasing fresh baked bread from the nonprofit Fed by Bread. Choose from a variety of loaves, cookies, granola, and gifts. Order today.

The Republic of Texas Bar & Grill is one of Corpus Christi’s top dining destinations. Located on the 20th floor of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, this steakhouse offers patrons beautiful panoramic views of the Corpus Christi Bay. For a more exclusive experience, reserve the table in the wine room and enjoy a bottle from their award-winning menu, or their new signature locally-brewed beer.

FRUIT AND PRODUCE WITH A TWIST 2637 Baldwin Blvd., Corpus Christi, 361-833-6340 For over 40 years, Frank’s Produce has offered locals a variety of affordable fruits and vegetables, as well as Mexican wares and unique piñata creations. Disney princesses, fairy tale favorites, super heroes, and even a few special request piñatas can be found at Frank’s.

GRANDVIEW LOUNGE 300 N. Shoreline Blvd., Corpus Christi, 361-696-7839 @GrandviewLounge At the Best Western, head to the top floor bar where you can sip spirits with a scenic view. Bring in outside food and enjoy this quiet and romantic secret spot.

FOOD & DRINK

38 The Bend

FREE POPCORN AT PORTLAND MOVIE THEATRE

DEL MAR CULINARY STUDENTS COOK YOU A MEAL

Call 361-643-FILM for show times. @northshore8

For more information call 361-698-2809.

Northshore 8 Cinemas is a quaint 8-screen theatre with wall-to-wall screens and DTS surround sound.

Bring your own bowl,. and enjoy free popcorn every Tuesday night after 6 pm. Military discounts.

Allow some of Corpus Christi’s up-and-coming chefs to prepare a unique edible experience. Wednesdays (excluding summer months) 11:15am-12:45pm the Culinary Arts program hosts an open lunch line where citizens can serve themselves and choose from the day’s menu. Full salad bar as well as desserts are also offered.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

SNOW FLAKES 5840 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, 361-452-1546 @snowflakesdessert Recently opened, Snowflakes offers authentic Thai ice cream creations with toppings like fresh fruit and boba. Great for anyone looking for a fresh spin on the usual syrup-flavored snow cone.

BYOB AT BONNA-PETIT 4301 S. Alameda St,. Corpus Chrsti, 361-334-2579 @bonna.petit.corpus BonnA-Petit offers gourmet gadgets, dishware, and prepared meals that can be heated at home. ThursdayFriday enjoy a fine French cuisine dinner with the added perk of BYOB.

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ISLAND JOES ON THE GO 361-867-1276 @islandjoescc Visit Island Joes for espresso-based coffee and shop the associated art gallery on North Padre Island.

During summer months, find their Joe-to-go truck every Thursday at the Island farmer’s market. A percentage of Island Joes sales goes to a feeding program they helped set up in the Dominican Republic.

Secret Menu Items EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB: In the mood for the

ultimate nachos? Stroll up to the counter and ask for some “Johnny Jochos” and you’ll get nachos with beans, cheese, beef, chicken, bacon, and mushrooms with sides of pico de gallo and guacamole all for under $12.

GROOVIE SMOOTHIE 111 N. Austin St., Rockport 361-288-9716 @gooviessmoothie14

306 N. Chaparral, Corpus Christi 361-884-7873

A small batch smoothie shop, Groovie Smoothie has a menu that changes daily. From coffee smoothies to fresh-made baby food, and everything in between, satisfy that sweet tooth the healthy way.

They are happy to create custom smoothies as well.

COFFEE WAVES:

If you order a Hug-in-a-Mug iced, it’s called a “Cold Shoulder.” Try the Hug-in-a-Mug with a coconut chai flavored warm embrace of the mouth. Tempted but the heat is stopping you, make it iced and order it as a “Cold Shoulder.”

5738 S. Alameda St., Corpus Christi 10309 S. Padre Island Dr. Ste F, Corpus Christi

PRIME, INSIDE SHORELINE SANDWICH CO. In the Plains Capital building at 600 Building at 600 Leopard, 361-883-1633 @ShorelineSandwich Choose from a selection of 19 gourmet, 8 oz. grass-fed burgers, hand-formed, served on a brioche bun with house-cut fries and your choice of appetizer and dessert. call for reservations.

Friday evenings 6-9pm.

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SHELL & PINE 415 S. Austin St., Unit #6, Rockport shellandpine.com Like something out of an Anthropologie catalog, Shell & Pine brings vintage wares with a breath of contemporary pizzazz to the Coastal Bend. With a variety of beautiful vintage furnishings, art, clothing, and curiosities, Shell & Pine creates a fun space to explore.

SHOPPING

FLEA MARKET: “MOON PLAZA”

SHOPPING

4135 Ayers St., Corpus Christi 361-434-0132 @moonplazafleamarket At this family-friendly flea market, you never know what you’ll find with everything from furniture, antiques, to locally made jewelry and religious merchandise. Be sure to visit Lion’s and Diamonds inside Moon Plaza and check out the concession stand for a cold beer and snacks. Open Fri-Sun.

A magnifying glass revealing a latte.

A coastal shopping bag filled with beachy items.

PRODUCE GOODS™

415 Peoples St., Corpus Christi 361-589-8577 producegoods.com Produce is an artist-run, multi-space concept that functions as a creative vehicle for art, design, music and fashion. Every space of PRODUCE will represent elements of the art world through modern design, music, photoThe Lexington wrapped in by an in-house graphy and urban culture.

Led 3D glasses. creative agency, PRODUCE aims to cultivate a network of like-minded individuals aspiring to grow Corpus as an emerging creative fabric.

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CRUZITO’S 4161 Hwy 35 N., Fulton, 361-450-0713 @cruzitogeneralstore A family-owned business, Cruzito’s General Store is a unique resale shop. Located in Fulton, patrons can expect to see musical instruments, antique furniture, vintage glassware (Pyrex and Corningware), gently-used wicker and rattan furniture, outdoor patio furniture, old familiar LP's, and even soy candles from The Comfort Candle Company, Comfort, Texas.

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WILDFLOWERS 2729 S. Padre Island Drive Corpus Christi, Texas 361-813-1347 @tmwildflowers With fabulous one of a kind gifts and vintage relics, Wildflowers is a unique place that will appeal to just about any style.

Antique meets modern design with plenty of class and taste mixed in at this hidden shop. Who knows what you will discover at this home and garden boutique.

Discover the retirement difference.

TheVieraLife.com

Coming Soon.

361.392.4OOO Cottages – Independent Living – Assisted Living – Memory Care

HIGHER EXPECTATIONS B.A.S.I.C.S. IS PREPARING THE NEXT GENERATION OF COLLEGIATE ATHLETES FROM THE BAY AREA. As a young athlete from Corpus Christi, Pryce Macon wanted the opportunity to play at the collegiate level. Fortunately, he had a mother who believed in him and went the extra mile to get him discovered. Now, Macon is doing the same for athletes across the Coastal Bend through Bay Area Sports Initiative Community Services (B.A.S.I.C.S.).

By: Jordan Regas Photos: Dustin Ashcraft

42 The Bend

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Pryce Macon will never forget the early morning before his senior year at Carroll High School when his mother, Faryce Macon, woke him up. Like most seventeen year olds, he didn’t want to get out of bed and drive three hours to a football summer camp, especially at a college who had completely overlooked him. Thanks to his mother’s determination, Pryce Macon dragged himself out of bed, and they were on the way to The University of Texas (UT). At the camp, he had the opportunity to go one-on-one against a few offensive line recruits who had already accepted scholarships. By the end of the day, UT head coach at the time, William Mack Brown, was asking his mother if he was still mad that UT hadn’t offered him a scholarship.

Shortly after, Pryce Macon received an official offer from UT. Though he didn’t choose the university, he had the option because he took advantage of an opportunity to prove himself.

The recruiting process for collegiate sports is long and confusing. There are a lot of questions students have about getting recruited by colleges, and what they don’t know can prevent them from getting scholarship offers. “It’s about actually getting out there in front of the coaches who have the power to make those decisions,” says Macon.

If it weren’t for Macon’s mother doing her research and making the time to take Macon to various camps, he would have never received so many prestigious scholarship offers. During his fiveyear career at the school of his choice, University of Oklahoma (OU), the team won four Big 12 Championships, appeared in three Fiesta Bowls,

B.A.S.I.C.S. MENTORING B.A.S.I.C.S. mentors students through the processes of setting both long-term and monthly goals, building positive habits and integrity, increasing selfconfidence and self-esteem, and creating a sense of responsibility and accountability—life skills that will continue to be beneficial even after students complete their education and enter the real world.

and made a trip to the National Championship Game. Macon played alongside NFL draft picks Gerald McCoy, Trent Williams, Jermaine Gresham, Sam Bradford, Adrian Peterson, DeMarco Murray, and many other future NFL players. However, he witnessed most of it from the sidelines.

Macon had to wait five years before he could play, and looking back, he might be in the NFL if he had believed in himself and received a little more guidance.

TOO BIG TO PLAY In spite of his father, Ferrington Macon, playing running back for Hampton University, football was never pushed on Macon or his little brother. It’s a good thing, because he weighed too much, and the league was afraid he might hurt the other kids. He didn’t put on pads and play tackle football until the 7th grade. During his freshman year at Carroll High School, he made the varsity team. By the time he

44 The Bend

reached his junior year, he was getting pretty good, but he didn’t believe he had the potential to play college football. For Macon, football was just about having fun and hanging out with friends. “I would look at the letters and think, yeah right, I have never seen a kid from Corpus go to a school like LSU,” says Macon.

After attending many camps and combines, CollegeFootballNews.com ranked Macon as the 25th defensive tackle in the nation and Rivals.com ranked him as the 33rd strong-side defensive end and the 54th ranked player in the state of Texas.

He had his choice of colleges and decided to become a Sooner.

His dad just thought everyone got recruited equally across the country, but his mom got on the internet and discovered that there were many recruiting decisions made at collegiate camps that colleges offered. Macon and his mom started traveling around to various camps at Oklahoma, Texas, Texas A&M, and the Rivals Camp Series. “I had no clue really what it was. No one else went around here,” says Macon. “So sometimes I would be there by myself. There would be 800 people there, and I would be the only one from Corpus Christi.”

BUSINESS AS USUAL

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From day one in college, Macon knew football would never be the same again.

Football went from pure fun to straight business.

According to Macon, everyone wants to quit at some point along the way. “A lot of it is mental. It’s not always the physical,” says Macon.

LUXURY VINYL TILE

The perfect solution for today’s busy lifestyle.

Macon went four years without starting. He went through a lot every day, including challenges with coaching staff.

When he got to OU, the coach who originally recruited him switched positions, and Macon didn’t get along as well with his new coach. It took a lot of patience and mental toughness to make it through those years until he finally got his chance to play. It was during that time that he developed a passion for preparing athletes out of Corpus Christi for the next level. “That’s what fuels me. That is what keeps me going every day. Once I made it through college I wanted to come back and change up where I came from.”

Waterproof. Kidproof. Petproof.

Macon’s younger brother, Prince Macon, and his friend, Jonathan Anderson, both witnessed Macon’s experience and learned from it. They both went to colleges where they got a lot more playing time, and Anderson was signed by the Chicago Bears as an undrafted free agent in 2015. “It’s really about how much film you have,” says Macon.

BACK TO THE BASICS Macon graduated with a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies and moved back to Corpus Christi with his heart set on starting a training business. It didn’t happen the way he wanted, but it gave him his first experience training large groups of kids at a time. Macon got his teacher's certification and came full circle, working at Carroll High as a special education teacher and football coach. While at Carroll, he helped his students with setting goals and planning their life.

4400 South Padre Island Dr. Corpus Christi, TX 78411

361.288.4224

www.allison-flooring.com

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DID YOU KNOW? Fewer than 2% of NCAA student-athletes go on to be professional athletes. In reality, most student-athletes depend on academics to prepare them for life after college. Education is important, as there are nearly half a million NCAA student-athletes, and most of them will go pro in something other than sports.

Source:www.ncaa.org

“I would sit down with every student that fell under special education requirements and ask them a series of questions, like how things are going, what they like, what they don’t like, what classes they like the best, what jobs they see in their future, what electives and teachers they like,” says Macon. “I took that into consideration when I started B.A.S.I.C.S.” Macon realized that being a high school coach was not his long-term goal, and while filling out an essay to apply for graduate school, the idea for B.A.S.I.C.S. was born. “I wanted to do camp travels. I wanted to help kids. I wanted to help get scholarships and attention on kids in Corpus Christi,” says Macon.

Bay Area Sports Initiative Community Services, or B.A.S.I.C.S., brings a wide range of services designed to help improve both mind and body to the Coastal Bend area players. Macon initially started

46 The Bend

B.A.S.I.C.S. with his friend and business partner, Cal Miller, as a way to give local high school athletes the opportunity to pursue dreams of playing NCAA collegiate sports; since then, it has grown into a company dedicated to guiding youth on their journey to more successful, empowered lives.

Along with speed, agility, flexibility and quickness, Macon sits down with each athlete and reviews their transcripts, progress reports, and checks their eligibility. He goes through a series of questions about where they want to go to school and what their goals are in life after sports. “For a lot of kids, it’s a light bulb that goes off in their head. They see what they want and then get to see where they are,” says Macon.

Macon doesn’t try to help with position skills, unless he knows it. They focus on ladder drills, change of direction drills, cone drills, back peddle drills, explosion

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drills, hop drills, and quickness drills.

Everything they do is about the student becoming a better athlete. “It’s taking what I learned and what I did for five years and trying to take it and give it to a kid early.

I’m not saying that I am trying to give any one expertise training, but I believe that if you can take these basics we were doing already in college and you can do them now, you will be way ahead of the game,” says Macon.

As a young athlete, Macon didn’t believe in himself or think he could play college ball.

At the time, there were few kids he could name that went on to play college football.

However, with B.A.S.I.C.S., Macon is changing that mindset for all local athletes, and more kids in the region are setting higher expectations for sports and life.

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Health MAY 2017

BE WELL 50 FITNESS 54

What’s Inside The Acai smoothie bowl is all the rage right now in the Coastal Bend. Acai is a purple, berry like fruit full of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, and tastes delicious.

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Health | Be Well

Eat, Drink, Live Raw Raw Bar is a new business, located in the Del Mar district, offering clean eating options to the community.

By: Jacqueline Gonzalez Photo: Rachel Durrent

T

he menu offers an affordable, healthy, delicious, and made-toorder assortment of juices, smoothies, and smoothie bowls, designed to replace any meal throughout the day.

With an impressive background in nursing and medicine and her own health experiences in mind, Kristy Aleman set forth to promote her options for a wellness plan. A connoisseur of clean eating, she decided to open a juice bar that allowed her to provide options that influence a healthier lifestyle. Aleman noticed the current rise in digestive illnesses, such as gluten intolerance, and when she opened Raw Bar in October 2016, she designed her menu items with high-quality organic ingredients enriched with essential vitamins and nutrients.

The juices and smoothies are blended to perfection in the Raw Bar kitchen using fresh fruits and vegetables. They are a great way to provide your body with a proper amount of fuel to put some pep in your step, allowing you to stay refreshed, energized, and alert throughout the day.

50 The Bend

The smoothie bowls are a great source of protein and serve as a replacement for breakfast, lunch, or a post-workout meal. Each bowl is uniquely set with a smoothie as the delightfully blended, nutrient-enriched base. The bowls are then topped with the perfectly placed lineup of sliced fruits, granola, coconut flakes, and chia seeds followed by a luscious, light drizzle of honey to satisfy the palate. The smoothie bowl is a great alternative to cereal!

Raw Bar is not Aleman’s first rodeo. She opened a Halcyon Med Spa and Wellness Center a few years prior to Raw Bar, where she educates patients in health, beauty, and wellness. Halcyon is located next door to Raw Bar, giving Aleman the perfect distance to achieve her goal in helping the community become healthier. She proudly welcomes everyone, “Whether they are taking the initial steps toward a healthier lifestyle or looking to integrate new delicious choices into their wellness plan, Raw Bar is committed to supporting their journey.”

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Best Sellers:

Smoothies – Purple Haze Smoothie Bowl – Pink Panther

Powerhouse Ingredients: Veggies – kale, spinach, cucumber, mint Fruits – mixed berries, lemon, kiwi, banana, blueberries, pineapple, apple, honeydew melon Protein – chia seeds, nut butter, granola Healthy fats – chia seeds, avocado Superfoods – bee pollen, coconut flakes, Matcha green tea, coconut water, almond milk Natural sweeteners – honey, agave, vanilla

1756 Santa Fe Corpus Christi, TX 78404 361-442-2847 rawbarcc.com @drinkliveeatraw

Special Promotion

Local Surgeon Combines State-of-the-Art Technology with Small Town Hospitality

A

lthough he was born in Zaragoza, Spain, Dr. Miguel Berastain Jr. was raised most of his life in Corpus Christi.

Now rooted in South Texas with his wife Nancy and their 2-year-old twins, Andrés and Carolina, Dr. Berastain Jr. develops partnerships with his patients built on honesty and trust that will last generations.

While many people share some of his interests like Star Wars or Notre Dame football, few can comprehend loving something as technical as orthopaedic surgery. For Dr. Berastain Jr., reading orthopaedic literature and watching surgical videos is a way to stay current in an ever-changing profession and remain open-minded to new ideas. “As an individual, it sounds exceedingly boring, but as his patient, it’s incredibly comforting,” smiles Vishal Pahwa, for whom Dr. Berastain Jr. performed ACL/MCL reconstructive knee surgery. Before his surgery his family asked him why he was so calm, Vishal replied, “…because I knew I was in good hands.”

For him, discussing the options for a patient to achieve the active lifestyle they desire is what’s important. He offers both non‐operative and operative treatment options, and he understands that listening and clear communication are essential for quality patient care. Dr. Berastain Jr. assesses every treatment option with the patient so expectations are realistic and goals are achievable.

Dr. Berastain Jr. delivering robotic orthopaedic care to the Coastal Bend

Passionate about South Texas and the patients who live here, he brings unique methods to the Coastal Bend offered in other areas of the United States. He specializes in the anterior approach total hip arthroplasty, and also has a particular interest in knee and shoulder arthroscopy and replacement. He uses state-of-the-art technology, both computer navigation and robotic surgery, to give the most precise results. These methods can help reduce both the risk of complications and, in many cases, the recovery time. Dr. Berastain Jr. confirms, “ In some cases, robotic surgery allows us to do less surgery and solve your knee problem in a way that could not be done in the past with as much accuracy.”

Starting his practice in Corpus Christi in 2006, Dr. Berastain Jr. gained firsthand experience working with his father, Dr. Berastain Sr. “My father has taught me how transparency and openness are necessary for developing patient relationships and that listening may be the most important skill I can have,” says Dr. Berastain Jr.

Dr. Miguel Berastain Jr. graduated from Incarnate Word Academy High School and then attended The University of Notre Dame where he graduated cum laude. He remained in the Midwest and completed medical school at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. He would go on to complete his Orthopaedic Residency at The University of Texas at Houston, Department of Orthopaedics.

Today, working at the Orthopaedic Center of Corpus Christi, Dr. Berastain Jr. offers “big city” care with a small-town feel, using the latest technology and still appealing to his patients on a personal level. When Dr. Berastain Jr. walks into a room, he provides the individual care and attention patients appreciate.

Dr. Berastain Jr. is Board Certified in Orthopaedic Surgery. He is a Diplomate of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. He is a member of the Texas Orthopaedic Association, Texas Medical Association and the Nueces County Medical Society.

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52 The Bend

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Special Promotion

Every Day is Mother’s Day at CHRISTUS Spohn.

It’s safe to say that every mother wants her pregnancy and delivery to go perfectly.

B

ut for Cassy Guerra, very few things went according to plan when she went into labor with her first baby.

“I’d been having some pains that I thought were false labor, so I came in to make sure everything was okay,” Guerra said. She went to CHRISTUS Spohn-South’s OB Emergency Room, which is staffed with an OBGYN 24/7, and the only ER of its kind in Corpus Christi. “They took my blood pressure and it was very high, and they ended up needing to induce labor.”

program provides Licensed Vocational Nurses solely to answer a mother’s questions, talk about their concerns, and provide resources for a healthy pregnancy, delivery and more.

“Spohn Women’s Services has a mission of supporting a woman throughout her pregnancy and beyond delivery,” says Lenora C. Sevcik, DNP, RN, Director of Women’s Services at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi – South. ““The CHRISTUS Spohn Birthing Center is delivering more than just

But thanks to the nurturing and compassionate support of the nurses at CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-South, Guerra said she felt relaxed in a tense situation.

“If they were anything like the labor and delivery nurses, I knew I would feel comfortable with him being there,” Guerra said.

“To be recognized by the people we are privileged to serve is very humbling for us,” said Mark Casanova, CHRISTUS Spohn-South President. “At the end of the day, we want to make sure we are delivering the best possible experience for our patients.”

“When they took me to the labor and delivery room, I was just miserable,” she recounts. “But Diana, a nurse there, made sure I wasn’t scared and was as comfortable as possible. It was a relief to know that she was there.”

Unique to CHRISTUS Spohn, the OB Navigator

“It was very scary. I didn’t want my baby to go to the NICU.” Guerra admitted. But she said she was comforted to know that if her baby went to the NICU, he would be in good hands.

Additionally, many more patients at CHRISTUS Spohn-South seem to agree with her. The hospital’s Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was recently awarded the “Consumer Choice Award” for patient satisfaction by Press Ganey, a national patient satisfaction ranking agency. CHRISTUS Spohn leaders said it was an honor to receive the award.

This meant she would be giving birth about three weeks early, and very unexpectedly, Guerra added.

The nurse ultimately stayed after her shift was over just to hold Guerra’s hand and see her through her delivery. Compassion is just one aspect of what sets the CHRISTUS Spohn-South birthing program apart. CHRISTUS Spohn-South also now offers the region’s only OB Navigator Program, a nationally recognized neonatal intensive care unit, a menu of classes, and even priority parking for expectant mothers. It’s all part of the hospital’s focus to provide a continuum of care for mothers and their babies.

began to see if he would need to go to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

babies. We provide a customized birthing experience. Here – every day is mother’s day.”

Thankfully, Guerra’s doctor was ready for the unexpected delivery. But moms delivering at CHRISTUS Spohn should take comfort knowing a board-certified OB Hospitalist is on-call, 24/7 for a delivery or to provide medical expertise if your physician is unavailable or delayed in reaching the hospital.

After Guerra’s son Lukas was born, the waiting

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Despite being born only 4 pounds and 1 ounce at pre-term birth, all tests and vitals were normal for Guerra’s baby. According to Cassy, Lukas is now a healthy, growing baby and the apple of his mother's eye. She praises her birthing team for providing an excellent outcome for her family.

“My birthing experience could have been very scary, but because of CHRISTUS Spohn, it wasn’t,” Guerra said. “They were there when I needed them most.”

Learn about the services, facilities, classes and more at christusspohn.org/birthingservices.

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Health | Fitness

Engarde! Ready? Fence!

Cross your blade & find your heart at the Coastal Bend Fencing Society By: Grace Buchanan Photos: Rachel Durrent

F

ifteen years ago, Grace Buchanan’s trembling hands unwrapped Pandora’s Box. The enchanting contents (fencing equipment) released everlasting memories that shook the earth. On that day, she realized that saber was her first TRUE love--one she’d known since 1979.

Fast forward to now, and you’ll recognize Buchanan as a certified fencing coach, owner, and referee at the only U.S.F.A. club south of San Antonio, The Coastal Bend Fencing Society (CBFS). Every Monday and Thursday night at Sokol Hall, she shares her love of the sport with others. The 58-year-old still competes, and last July she fenced inUnited State Fencing Association's (USFA) Summer National Championships.

Grace’s number one goal at CBFS is for everyone to have fun. Her second goal is to teach skills that make fencers successful at the sport, which means getting an impressive workout! During class, fencers practice footwork, blade work, point control, speed, distance, timing, etc… This recipe is a challenging one, something that has helped

54 The Bend

keep her and her fencers in shape.

For example, Michael Clem, a Flour Bluff freshman, loves his time at the club. His dad helped jump start it by requesting lessons from Buchanan two years ago.

Since then, Clem has morphed from a youngster who only enjoyed playing video games into a young man who fences well enough that he is now an Assistant Coach. His favorite saying, “Make new friends and then stab them!”

Then there is Chris Williams, a 33-year-old experienced and rated USFA fencer and referee. He joined CBFS a little over a year ago. Since then, he has lost 50+ pounds by pairing his fencing addiction and cross training with special diets that helped his performance at the last Summer Nationals. Currently, he’s working on his coaching credentials and gives private lessons at the club.

Sarah Dwyer is another fencer staying fit at CBFS. A 14-year-old home-schooled freshman, she is currently earning high school P.E. credits for her activities in fencing class that are paired with yoga at home. This

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Bob Jones, local talk show host, involves himself giving epee lessons. Buchanan and he are very old friends in the fencing world, and Jones is going to start helping coach epee.

Together, the two started the Fencing League at TAMU-CC and Jones previously coached them.

In the past, he also was involved coaching at Temple University and fenced in NCAA Div 1, USA National Fencing, and competed in the Martini-Ross International Tournament. Jones qualified for the 1980 Olympic Games in Team Epee.

summer was her first time to compete in Summer Nationals. She explains, “It is a great physical outlet for stress, and it definitely keeps me fit. Fencing is a perfect combination of cardio, balance, and mental focus.�

Eight-year-old Sam Straub is a feisty one and fearless of the older saber guys in the club. Both he and his parents joined together; so for them, it is not just a workout but a family affair. Just imagine where he will be in 10 years if he sticks with it?

Fencing truly is an inclusive life time sport, with no boundaries in age, gender, experience, etc. Although it is one of the oldest Olympic sports, it is something new to Corpus Christi. So, if you are looking for a unique work out, look no further. The enchanting sport of knights and kings is beckoning you to come cross blades and add passion to your life!

CBFS meets: Mondays 5:30-8:30 pm Thursdays 6-8:30 pm 5502 Kostoryz (Sokol Hall) Corpus Christi, TX Coastalbendfencingsociety.org 361-815-4150

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

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

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

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

10 Bayside Hewit | $750,000 lot 201 Dr. |-Vacant $899,900

De 4/3/1/3 3438 Denver | $1,050,000 | 5/4.5/4 | Pool | Pool

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11 Great Lakes Dr. - $750,000

5/4/2/3

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5 Lake Shore Dr. | $229,900 | 4/3/0/3

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149 Rossiter St. | $275,000 |3/2/0/0

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7534 Freds Folly Dr. | $299,900 | 4/2/1/3

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

3436 Newcastle Dr. | $569,900 | 5/3/1/3 | Pool

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

125 Ropes St. | $650,000 | 4/3/1/2 | Pool

8101 Valdemorillo Dr. - $499,000

10 Hewit Dr. | Vacant Lot | $750,000 | Approx. 1 Acre

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Home & Garden MAY 2017

OPEN HOUSE 58 GARDENING 62

What’s Inside There is a lot more to a home than meets the eye. Every home is full of items that tell a story; however, stepping into the home of Ernesto and Luisa Lira is like walking into a whole new world.

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Home & Garden | Open House

If These Walls Could Talk Stories told from a home of artifacts By: Alexis De Leon Photos: Jason Page

L

ook around your home. What items have you amassed over the years and what stories do they tell?

Are they pots of centuries past or clay sculptures of cultures long forgotten? Every wall in the home of Ernesto and Luisa Lira is alive with stories of ancient civilizations. Even the bones of the house, such as doors and pillars, have an origin a bit more complex than the local home improvement store.

Pulling up to the home of Ernesto and Luisa Lira feels like any other home on the block. However, stepping inside feels like entering the Cave of Wonders. Only those of pure heart seeking knowledge and not fortune may enter. Soothing meditation music plays from speakers somewhere in the house and suddenly sitting in the parlor, it feels like another world. The Liras have

58 The Bend

lived in their Huntington Park home for a little over 20 years.

The couple spent a few years living in exotic places like Alabama: however, with Corpus Christi native Ernesto’s family living in the area of their current home, the two finally settled where they are today.

The home gives the feeling of being strongly connected to the Earth. Dark wooden tables, doors, and awnings flow around the first floor originating from places such as India and Afghanistan. “My favorite pieces are those that transcend time, are transcultural, and speak of things that cannot be spoken of,� explains Ernesto.

The home theater room and entertaining area is the favorite room in the house, and for good reason. The room is set with

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Favorites!

Ernesto’s favorite pieces include an Amazonian “Death Mask” mounted in the home theater room. Made of Macaw feathers, the mask is meant to represent the warrior killed in battle, and the victor was said to wear the mask at the ceremony and keep quiet or else he would bring back the spirit of the dead. Another is an enormous Imperial Chinese solid jade disc called a “Bi” found in burial sites of the Yangshao culture dating about 3200 BC.

ample leather seating, lights that dim, and a projector with a screen that descends from the ceiling. But the main focal point is the wall with the fireplace. Where a mantel would normally sit, in its place are well-lit shelves adorned with artifacts that draw the eye. After spending many hours studying stone and ceramics, Ernesto feels most confident purchasing artifacts within those material genres.

“We never purchase something without seeing it first. People will swear something is real, and it has happened a few times, but when we get it looked at, it turns out to be a fake,” Luisa warns.

The theater room wall is a broad gamut of

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antiquities spanning from cultures of Mexico, Veracruz, Peru, Ecuador, Afghanistan, and American Indian. Ceramic Shaman gives a glimpse into divine transcendence, while an urn (from 5000 BC) and funeral mask tell stories of how the living communed with the dead. To the back of the room stands large French doors that open to the patio and backyard. The pool outback with its waterfall, large greenery, and back lighting looks like something from the Land before Time.

“While we do and have donated pieces to museums, there are some pieces that will stay with us and become part of our family heritage,” Luisa says. Pieces such as the doors and pillars

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have lasted for centuries and will continue to last long after the Liras and the home built around them. The door from the theater room to the kitchen is an Indian set of double doors originating from a house of a maharajah in the 1800s. Hand-carved with mandalas along the trim, it’s hard to walk through without staring. Just as the doors were carved with great care, so are they placed in the house. Special artisans were called to assist Ernesto in fitting the doors in the doorway, or rather manipulating the doorway for the doors.

A small hallway connects the kitchen to the dining room. The hallway walls have a few shelves of precious stones, fossils of trilobites, and long extinct arthropods. Tucked away in the back is a massive crystal from the Cueva de las Espadas (Cave of Swords) in Naica, Mexico.

Originally given to the CEO of Ford Motors around the 1950s, the crystal was inherited and then acquired by the Liras. “People often use the word ‘collector’ with me, but I want to redefine that because I am not a collector, we are conservators. A collector is someone who is under the delusion that they own that item. We don’t own any of this, we are just custodians of art,” Ernesto explains.

To the back of the dining room through an awning of Middle Eastern origin dating back to the 1700s hides the office. Three walls lined from floor to ceiling with books on cultures, history, destinations, and art gather silently on the shelves inviting a scholar to sit in the ornate arm chairs off to the corner and read them. Ernesto says, “There are those who seek these items purely for profit, but we are after the stories they tell. In order to understand the creators of each piece, we must learn to see through their eyes, touch through their hands, and hear through their ears.”

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Home & Garden | Gardening

Trees in the City Help your trees thrive By: Grant Ehlen

E

xperiencing nature comes in so many packages: a beautiful sunset, a stroll on the beach, a hike in the mountains. In fact, we urban folks spend a lot of time, energy, and money bringing nature close to home by planting trees, shrubs, and flowers in our urban environment.

Have you ever really looked at the urban environment, then thought about nature and compared the difference? In reality, there isn’t much the two have in common, yet we expect our trees to somehow thrive in the city. Actually, a lot of our city trees are struggling to survive. We need to do a few things differently to help our trees do more than survive.

Consider these three suggestions to help your trees thrive:

1. Select the right tree to plant.

2. Plant for success.

3. Prune appropriately.

This month, we will take a look at the first suggestion. Selecting the right tree to plant is the first step in helping a tree thrive in our local environment.

Around the Coastal Bend, folks seem to like Live Oaks. They are a great tree but can grow extremely large. Live Oaks grow to be big trees, and big trees need a big space. Unfortunately, most people only see the small tree they buy at the nursery and plant two or three oaks in a single, small front yard.

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Things look fine at first, but one day those small trees will overtake the yard, the house, and even the neighbor's house.

Before buying trees to plant in your yard, consider the open space around your house, other buildings, driveways and walkways. The Texas State Forestry folks have a great website to help you find the right tree for the right place. One smaller space tree that works well for an urban yard with limited space is the Cedar Elm. They are fantastic trees.

Species is not the only thing you have to consider when selecting the right tree. When you buy a tree, it most likely comes in a container. Tight clothes may be a popular fashion statement today, but too many roots in a small container is not healthy for trees. If young trees are left in small containers, their roots will quickly fill the space and start circling inside the container. This will cause roots to cross each other and eventually start choking or girdling each other. Girdling roots is a major cause of urban tree health issues or even death several years after the tree has been planted. If you can see roots the size of your little finger or larger in the top of the tree’s container, don’t buy it. It most likely has girdling roots hidden inside. Also, if the tree trunk seems large for the container, it probably is.

Next month, you will find out how to plant for success.

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The "Store" solutions built right into them, so that with your Braselton home, you can save that money that you now spend each month at your neighborhood storage unit location.

OUR MOST POPULAR HOME STORAGE SOLUTIONS INCLUDE: • Drop Zones • Oversized Walk-In Pantries • Butler Pantries • Built-in Backyard Storage "Sheds" • Texas Basements • “Storehouse” Units • “Tech” Bars

As the school year winds to a close and shouts of “School’s Out for the Summer!” resound throughout the Coastal Bend, parents everywhere (having survived another 9 months of soccer schedules, PTA meetings, teacher appreciation luncheons, spelling tests, science fair projects, and carpool lines) start their annual “House Cleaning.” Out go the lunch boxes, old cleats, and backpacks, and everything else collected throughout the year that has found its way through the back door.

And every year, at this time, as the closets, pantries, and playrooms are purged, parents everywhere resolve that next year will be different and they will never let this happen again! Next school year, they will be organized.

But, we know it’s not just the kids; we parents have too much stuff, too. Closets and attics are bursting, and the garage is full of everything, but cars.

Many of us tend to keep everything we have ever bought, and then we store it!

In some cases, we even rent extra space for it each month; the Storage Unit business is booming.

Remember when your mother said, “A place for everything and everything in its place”? With Braselton Home designs, no space is wasted, and every nook and cranny of our homes is designed to give you the organized, efficient home that you want (and keep pinning on Pinterest), but thought you could never have.

So here at Braselton Homes, we have designed our plans to address this problem. Just as important as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms that a home has, should be the number of storage areas it contains. We need places to put our stuff, and to keep it all organized.

Braselton-built homes have unique and clever storage

Today, we will review the “little miracle” we call the “drop zone.” In Northern regions, these spaces are called a “mudroom.” However, we have taken that area, and upped the ante. We’ve turned this small space into the hardest working room in your home. This is a place to “drop” your keys, and packages when you get home and, it has storage benches, hooks, cubbies, and even desks built in. It is meant to provide dedicated spots not only for the kids backpacks and sports gear, but also for the monthly bills and mail.

To see a drop zone come out and tour our newest model home, located at 3126 Maverick Drive, located in the award-winning Tuloso-Midway school district, and within walking distance to the Tuloso-Midway Elementary school. In our Hunter’s Creek Neighborhood, homes start in the $160s, and are a family’s dream come true.

In the model home, at the owner’s entry from the garage, the drop zone is the first thing that greets you.

With this location, the kids can store their aforementioned sports gear, backpacks, and all their other “stuff” neatly. It is put away immediately, so it’s ready for tomorrow.

Along with the other “kid-friendly” aspects of this Braselton home, the open floor plan, walk-in pantry, and an abundance of natural light make it the perfect home for your family to enjoy.

The location of this Hunter’s Creek neighborhood is ideal - it's 2 minutes from I-37, but in the protection of the rolling hills of the Northwest. It’s just minutes to the Fulton Corridor, and downtown, as well as close to churches, parks and shopping. Hunter’s Creek offers all the peace and quiet of a suburb, without the traffic, but close to all you want. It is among the best living areas that our city has to offer. For a map, and more info, visit us at Braseltonhomes.com With plenty to see, Hunter’s Creek has several completed homes available for you to tour, or you could select your own home site, choose your own finishes, and build the home of your choice.

BART BRASELTON Bart Braselton is the Executive Vice President of Braselton Homes, the Coastal Bend’s oldest and largest Homebuilder and Neighborhood Developer. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Bart is the third generation of The Braselton family building in the Bay Area. Returning to Corpus Christi after earning a BBA in Finance, as well as a second degree in Real Estate, from the University of Texas, at Austin, Braselton began working in the family business as a construction superintendent.

Since then, Braselton Homes has won numerous local, state, and national awards, including the Energy Star Leadership in Housing Award, as well as the Environments for Living Diamond Award for Energy Efficiency. And, the company has grown into one of the Nation’s Largest Homebuilders, earning consistent rankings in the annual lists compiled by both Professional Builder, as well as Builder Magazine.

Bart, a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi Class 18, has served on numerous local community and business boards, including the Coastal Bend GreenBuilt Initiative, Bay Area Smart Growth, and the Police Foundation. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Development Corporation, the Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, the Builders Association and the Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation.

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

So, if you want to learn more about our storage solutions, come on out to our “store.”

See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton

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Out & About MAY 2017

ARTS & CULTURE 68 CELEBRATION 70 SOCIAL HOUR 74

What’s Inside A wedding on the beach is the perfect way to celebrate a perfect day. This beach ceremony in Port Aransas was set with a white-washed pergola with hand-crocheted dream catchers and air plants that swayed in the breeze.

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Out & About | Arts & Culture

Beauty and Taste Locally crafted and totally edible fruit, vegetable, and herb bouquets By: Caroline R. Freeman Photos: Olesya Redina

A

Texan by way of Russia, Julia Prokhorova is creating art from the ground up. Her ever-growing business, Wild Veggie Bouquets, specializes in using fresh produce to create works of art.

Two-and-a-half years ago, Prokhorova moved from Saint Petersburg, Russia to the US. An avid traveler, she is inspired by her visits to other countries. She explains, “In my travels, I always keep an eye on various ideas I may improve upon. So when a couple years ago I saw a bouquet made of vegetables, I fell in love with the concept.”

In her native Russia, due to trading restrictions and very few farmers, it was a challenge to find fresh supplies for her bouquets. When Prokhorova moved to Corpus Christi and saw the rich variety of fruits and vegetables at local grocery stores and organic markets, she gave new life to her idea of vegetable bouquets.

Prokhorova holds a Masters Degree in Biology and worked several years for a molecular biology laboratory doing her PhD research. Her education and background in biology and nutrition was the

“The support of my family is very important. We are always afraid to fail at the very beginning, but if we don’t try, we won’t know the result.”

base for developing Wild Veggie Bouquets.

Though Prokhorova has never seen herself as an artist, she has always been inspired by 17th century still-life paintings by artists such as Jan Davidsz. de Heem. She remembers, “My grandparents had a paper print of one of his still-lifes on the wall in their village house. I spent a lot of time admiring it.”

Prokhorova began participating in local farmers markets. She’d bring a table, a few vases, fruit, vegetables, and herbs. “By the end of market, I would have a few bouquets made. It’s not just a sale thing but a process people liked to watch,” Prokhorova says.

She realized the combination of possibilities was infinite. “My goal was to create a work of art that was completely edible,” says Prokhorova. Wild Veggie Bouquets are customizable and feature vegetables, fruits, flowers, herbs, and even macarons.

The local community is very supportive, and Wild

HER PROCESS 1. Ensure there is no damage: any indentation or bruise. If there are any, it means it's a start of the end for this fruit. Tomorrow it will get worse! And Prokhorova wants to be sure her clients can enjoy the beauty of an arrangement longer.

2. Usually she doesn't need super-sized samples, as vegetable bouquets are heavier than flowers, but she can use bigger units for her athletes and fitness clients.

3. Now once she’s certain the fruit is fresh, Prokhorova checks if its esthetic features are valuable. She looks for fruits with more than one color - she likes pinky apples with green sides or yellow-green, black plums with a pink bottom, white and pink peaches and so on. Of course, for some fruits, it's impossible. Granny Smith apples will be green no matter what, but when it is possible, she'll choose a colorful one.

Veggie Bouquets have become popular birthday gifts and wedding decorations. They’re even opening a franchise in Atlanta, Georgia. “I am always open for new challenges and never say ‘no’ to my customers. I want to try new things. It inspires me,” adds Prokhorova.

Instead of oil paints, Julia Prokhorova uses the often overlooked beauty of fruits and vegetables at your local market to create exquisite art, truly reminiscent of the masters. facebook.com/WildVeggieBouquet wildveggiebouquet@gmail.com

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Out & About | Celebration

Bohemian Beach Love A day on the beach for this Austin bride and groom was just what was created for their special day.

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mily, born and raised in Corpus Christi, now living in Austin, wanted a day of love, laughter and for her guests to “dream a little dream.”

Cinnamon Shore set the scene for the beach wedding and reception of Emily and her now husband, Brent.

The beach ceremony was set with a white washed pergola with hand crocheted dream catchers and air plants that swayed in the breeze.

Antique Bohemian-style rugs created an aisle for the wedding party. After the bride and groom said “I Do,” guests blew bubbles as they recessed down the carpeted aisle.

Large tee-pee tents sat on the Great Lawn as well as lounge areas with specialty items that show the couple dances to the beat of their own drum. Family-style farm table seating covered

Event Coordinating and Design: Jo Anne Howell, Oh Goodie Designs + Events Graphics & Invitations: Harper Gray Designs for Oh Goodie Designs + Events Floral: Sandra Sauceda, The Blossom Shop

the lawn surrounding a dance floor where guests danced the night away.

There was never an empty spot under the lights.

Oversized florals in mix and match jars and vases paired well with feathers that softened the wood tables.

Candles and air plants in terrariums finished off the look.

Food stations with coconut shrimp, fried goat cheese, crab cakes, kale salad and pork belly sliders filled guests until it was time to cut the cake! A dessert table with mini lemon tarts, coconut macaroons and blueberry tartlets created a visual display next to the wedding cake.

After a late night of dancing under the stars, guests were refreshed with snow cones for their final treat.

The bride and groom left through a tunnel of sparklers to end the evening.

Photography: Heidi Rae Photography

DJ Service: Dance till Dawn

Farm Tables: Lancaster & Co.

Custom wall & backdrop: Ron Blue Furniture

Catering and Bar Service: Hester’s Catering

Dance floor & Catering Rentals: Butler Signature Events

Lighting: Enlightening Ideas

Valet Parking: Harbor Parking

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Out & About | Social Hour

2 nd Annual Brunch on the Bay Photos by: Rachel Durrent

We had so much fun at the 2nd Annual Brunch on the Bay! We’d like to extend one last thank you to our sponsors for making this event a reality – Neessen Automotive, Gignac Architects, Alba Insurance and Oh Goodie Designs+Events.

Enjoy a photo recap of this year's event and we hope to see you next year!

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Cuisine MAY 2017

FARM TO TABLE 78 DINING GUIDE 81 THE DRINK 82 THE DISH 84

What’s Inside Coq au vin has been around for thousands of years, but received an elegant makeover in the mid-20th century when French Chef Paul Bucose developed a new recipe for his landmark restaurant in Lyon.

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Cuisine | Farm to Table

Sophisticated Peasant Food By: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Durrent

Coq au Vin brings the flavors of France home to The Bend.

C

oq au vin, which is French for “rooster in wine,” has been around for a couple thousand years.

Legend tells that the defeated Gauls served coq au vin to Julius Caesar when he conquered France for Rome. They say the emperor Napoleon ate coq au vin as a last resort when there was nothing else to be had.

This dish was the food of the poor because old retired laying hens, roosters in particular, are such tough and stringy birds.

They must be braised for hours to tenderize the meat. The other ingredients - onions, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and basic herbs - are the staples of a working class garden. The birds are tough, yes, but they are very flavorful.

Coq au vin got an elegant makeover in the mid-20th century when trendsetting French chef Paul Bucose developed a new coq au vin recipe for his landmark restaurant in Lyon. Bucose influenced chefs around the world to experiment with chicken in wine preparations.

But it was the legendary Julia Child who put coq au vin on the international food map when she cooked it on her television show in the 1960s. Her dish became an instant classic. Child introduced French cuisine to the home chef in America and made it accessible.

Of course, a modern coq au vin presentation will be different than the Old World version, because modern chickens are so different. No chef would use an old laying hen, and especially not a rooster, for this dish. Heritage chicken breeds have been abandoned in favor of a new hybrid chicken called the Cornish Rock Cross.

This hybrid was developed by the big chicken companies in the late 20th Century and is the only chicken most people have ever tasted. The Cornish Rock Cross develops a large, well-formed breast, thick meaty legs, and does not even have pin feathers!

They also have very tender meat.

As Chef Child or Chef Bucose would say, the quality of your chicken and wine determines the quality of this dish. For the best coq au vin, you must source your chicken from a local farm.

Just as important, this dish is only as good as the wine used to cook it. For extraordinary coq au vin, you can’t skimp on the wine.

This dish also calls for fresh pork belly and homemade chicken stock. You can find all these wholesome ingredients, plus the chicken and the freshly-picked vegetables, at Kimmi’s Fine Foods in Rockport, or any of the local farmers’ markets in The Bend.

If this is peasant food, let us eat like peasants. Peasants (and Caesars and Emperors) have never had it so good!

78 The Bend

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Coq Au Vin Inactive prep time: 8 hours Prep time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Ingredients: ¼ cup salt 1 whole chicken (about 4lbs), cut into 8 pieces 1 lb thick-cut bacon (preferably uncured) or pancetta, diced Salt and freshly ground pepper 2 shallots, diced 5 carrots, peeled and cut into thirds 4 yukon gold potatoes, cut into chunks 3 cloves garlic, minced 4 tbsp butter 1 ½ tbsp all-purpose flour 2 cups homemade chicken stock 1 ½ cups Pinot Noir or Burgundy ½ cup sliced mushrooms 8 sprigs thyme ½ cup chopped parsley Directions: In a large pot, dissolve salt in as much water as necessary to immerse the chicken pieces (about 4 cups). Cover and leave in refrigerator overnight.

The following day, remove the chicken from the salt water, rinse it with cool running water, and pat dry with paper towels. Season with black pepper.

Heat a 5qt cast iron dutch oven over medium heat. Add bacon or pancetta and cook until slightly crisp, about 3 minutes on each side. Remove bacon and set aside. Season chicken with pepper and cook for 7 minutes on each side. Work in batches if necessary, but be careful not to overcrowd. Add vegetables into the pot and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Throw in butter to the pot and heat until it melts. Add flour and stir until thickened and begins to turn brown. Add chicken stock, wine, thyme, salt and pepper, and stir until this roux is dispersed throughout. Cook on medium-low for an additional 30 minutes or until juice of chicken runs clear and there are no traces of pink in the pieces of dark meat. Sprinkle fresh parsley over finished dish.

• In Old World coq au vin, the comb, feet, and kidneys were used to flavor the dish. Blood was also added to thicken the sauce.

• Brine the chicken in salt water to achieve a most tender chicken. You can also marinate the chicken in wine overnight, but the chicken will take on a deep maroon color and have a powerful wine flavor. The wine marinade must be of the highest quality.

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• The flavors of this coq au vin continue to develop with age, so we recommend making it the day before dinner with friends and reheating it just prior to serving.

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Cuisine | Dining Guide

Dining Guide

Corpus Christi

Padre Island

Port Aransas

Outdoor dining

Live music

American $ = Under $10 $$ = Mostly $10 - $20 $$$ = $20 and up The Bend Magazine Dining Guide is a select list of restaurants around the Coastal Bend. Implicitly, the magazine’s editors recommend all of these restaurants and they are not advertisements. Listings are updated monthly and appear based on space availability. Reviews and articles are written by our editors as a service to readers.

Restaurant owners: If you have news about your restaurant or a correction to our listing, we’re all ears! Send an email to editor@thebendmag.com or call (361) 792-3606

8te $

A shabby chic interior feel with classic comfort dishes that have a simple twist. They have it all breakfast, lunch, and dinner! 1220 Airline #250, (361) 723-0261, Facebook.com/8tecctx Andy’s Country Kitchen $ You will feel right at home just like eat’n in mom’s kitchen. Great southern comfort food that gets back to the basics! 5802 S Staples St, (361) 993-0251, Andyskitchen.com Atomic Omelette & Grill $ Omelettes are just the beginning here! Comfortable atmosphere with a flavor for casual dining and handmade family recipes. 6313 Wooldridge Rd #10, (361) 334-3942, Atomicomelette.com Citrus Bayfront Bistro $ Enjoy everything homemade, even down to the pie crusts with a gorgeous view of the marina.

100 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 882-2047, Citrusbistro.com The Exchange $$ From the floor to the ceiling, the walls, to your mind, and even right down to your palate, visiting The Exchange brings a sense of “home” to a downtown experience. 224 N. Mesquite St, (361) 414-9788, theexchangecc.com

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Rockport

Hamlin Pharmacy & Fountain $

The last Soda Fountain in Corpus Christi, TX! Although they’ve expanded and changed over the many years, their old fashioned values and friendly service has remained the same. 3801 S Staples St, (361) 853-7303, Hamlinpharmacy.com Irie’s Island Food $ With bold purpose and flavor craving taste buds, they set forth a new twist on local fare and many culinary delights from islands around the globe.

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

MacDaddy’s Family Kitchen $$

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

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

Padre Island Burger Company $$ Burgers, burgers, and burgers! Build it yourself or choose from their handcrafted menu. 11878 TX-361, (361) 949-3490, Padreislandburgercompany.com

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Cuisine | The Drink

GREAT BROWS DON'T HAPPEN

BY CHANCE, THEY HAPPEN

BY APPOINTMENT.

Kampai!

Saké to me

BEFORE

By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Durrent

A

AFTER

Advanced certification in micro-pigmentmentation + microblading.

Licensed with

The Texas Department of State Health Services.

Comprehensive Consultations Microblading Feathering · Color Matching Minimal Discomfort · Sanitary

ka Sushi Downtown is known to serve some of the most delicious traditional Japanese food in the Coastal Bend area. But their authenticity doesn’t stop there; they also serve some of the best Japanese drinks – saké, in particular.

Typically drank in small ceramic cups, saké is a Japanese drink made of fermented rice and koji. Koji, considered to be the most important part of the saké brewing process, is rice malt.

Aka carries three different types of saké purities, and the difference all lies on the grain.

The saké’s flavor can go from smooth to sharp depending on the temperature. Saké is either chilled at room temperature or heated – all depending on the preference of the drinker, the quality of the saké, and the season.

Kil Lee, owner of Aka Sushi Downtown, shares that hot saké is their best seller, and rightfully so, as you can’t go wrong with it.

However, more seasoned saké drinkers will prefer it cold, especially high grain saké, because some flavors and aromas only come out in that certain temperature.

415 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 882-8885

Saké is the traditional rice wine of Japan and was first made at least 2,000 years ago. From its origins as the "drink of the Gods" to its current status as one of the most popular drinks in the country, the history of saké is steeped in tradition, innovation, and custom.

by Pinnacle Tattoo

1041 Airline Road Corpus Christi, Tx 78412

361.549.9205

pinnacletina@yahoo.com @golddustcosmetictattooing 82 The Bend

They have the Junmai, which is milled 30% with 70% of each grain remaining; the Junmai Ginjo, milled at 40% with 60% of each grain remaining; and the Junmai Dai Ginjo, which is an even 50-50%.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Cuisine | Dining Guide Surfside Sandwich Shoppe $ Dine inside or outside on the patio, and enjoy their large assortment of sandwiches and sides or have a nice cold beverage. Don’t forget the homemade desserts!

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

Sang’s Imperial Café $$ Culturally dynamic décor brings an international ambiance to the atmosphere. Their commitment to the healthiest and freshest food shows through from the dishes to the sushi bar.

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

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

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

TakeNiwa $$$ Sit in Hibachi and watch their talented chefs prepare your dinner. Or treat yourself to juicy steak and full sushi bar, your choice! 5216 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 356-6888, Takeniwa.com

The Glass Pavilion $$ Casual hotel eatery offering simple American mains and views of the sea. Did we mention they also offer a breakfast buffet? Stop in for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! 2nd Floor Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 887-1600, Omnihotels.com

Hoegemeyer’s BBQ $$

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

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

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

The Groove $$ A little something for every discriminating craving with an eclectic dining experience. Nothing is ever frozen or put in a fryer! 2001 N Hwy 35, (361) 729-3663, Thegrooverockport.com

The Post $$ Enjoy this pub in a communal setting with dishes that are meant to be shared, all alongside a cocktail or beer of course! 3850 S Alameda, (361)452-0907, thepostlamarpark.com Town & Country Café $ This down-to-earth diner serves the best in homestyle American comfort food for breakfast and lunch. 4228 S Alameda St, (361) 992-0360, Facebook.com/town-country-cafe

Asian Aka Sushi $$ Creative and daring rolls that work well together.

The authentic Asian cuisine made with the chef’s homemade recipe will be sure to surprise you.

415 N Water St, (361) 882-8885 facebook.com/akasushidowntowncc

Barbeque Smoked fresh barbeque on a strong German heritage background and a satisfaction for something unique. South Texas barbeque that comes from the heart. 711 Concrete St, (361) 884-4227, Hoegemeyers.com ll

Mike Cotten’s BBQ $$

(Corpus Christi) Bar & Grill

Boathouse Bar & Grill $$ The best thing about the Boathouse Bar & Grill is that there’s something for everyone; a mouthwatering menu, 4 full bars with HDTVs, waterfront patio dining, friendly service, and a fun, relaxing atmosphere.

15241 Leeward Dr, (361) 589-9601, Boathousepadreisland.com Brewster Street Ice House $$ Who says that you can’t have 4-star food in a casual environment? Not the Brewster Street Grill! Bring your kids or stay for a concert, they have it all.

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

Executive Surf Club $$

FINS Grill and Icehouse $$

For the past 11 years, they’ve featured fresh seafood, 1/2 lb Angus beef burgers & chicken. Full bar and you “You Hook ‘Em, We Cook ‘Em” for the fisherman.

420 West Cotter, (361) 749-8646, Finsgrillandicehouse.com Stingray’s Taphouse and Grill $$ An industrial-chic elite sports bar that provides you ‘raving fans’ a unique dining and entertaining experience, right around the corner from the beach!

401 Beach St, (361)749-2287, Stingraystaphouse.com

The Brewery $$ Brick oven pizza, pub food & burgers sound good?

How about a fresh brewed-in-house beer?

429 Alister St, (361) 749- 2739, Portaransasbrewery.com

Café BonnA-Petit $ Chef Sophie will always make you feel warmly welcomed, just as her gourmet dishes do. And don’t forget to grab a to-go dinner! 4301 S Alameda St, (361) 334-2579, Bonna-petit.com Daily Grind $ A coffee bar with personality, they offer the finest in gourmet, rustic, or straight-up coffee favorites.

Hungry? Stick around for their daily quiche specials, scones, and sandwiches. 302 S Austin St, (361) 790-8745, Rockportdailygrind.com

Fillingood Bakery $ With fresh bread baked in house, they make breakfast and lunch a delight! 3819 S Alameda St., (361) 225-4663, fillingoodbakery.com Hester’s Café and Coffee Bar $ Looking for a true family experience where love is the number one ingredient, along with the simple but important concept of quality and the healing powers of good food.

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

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

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

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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83

Cuisine | The Dish

The Trendiest Thai BKK Thai Kitchen takes home the title “Best of Brunch” by attendees at the 2nd Annual Brunch on the Bay. By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Durrent

W

ith a love for travel and food, Ryan Rios is entering the local restaurant game with his own unique and modern take on traditional Thai cuisines. BKK Thai, named after Bangkok, Thailand’s international airport, serves its purpose as being an entry point to a place not similar to anything we have in the Coastal Bend right now.

Inspired by his many travels, not just to Thailand, the restaurant comes alive with what can be described as “coastal chic” design--a breath of fresh air from the traditional look most Asian restaurants have.

Recently one of 12 restaurants to participate in The Bend Magazine’s 2nd Annual Brunch on the Bay event, Rios served up candied bacon, sweet rice topped with fruit and a coconut sauce, vegetable spring roll with peanut sauce, and iced Thai tea.

The “brunchers” couldn’t resist but vote this new restaurant as their #1 pick.

The food veers away from the usual. While they will still have classic Thai dishes such as pad thai, pineapple fried rice, curries, and the like, a lot of their innovative meals will have a “East Meets West” approach, where they will offer a modernized Thai

84 The Bend

twist into a classic dish. One delicious example is their tacos which, instead of being wrapped inside a tortilla, will be put in a fried wonton wrapper.

Served with a mix of a sweet, Asian sauce along with spicy, Spanish salsa, the dish creates a heavenly explosion of flavors: a taste BKK Thai can claim to be all their own.

Like any labor of love, Rios shares that getting where they are now was all kinds of interesting and frustrating. It took six months just to get the permit for the place, and getting all the details of the place done – from the design to the menu – to just how he imagined it to be, took a couple more. But, just like any labor of love as well, the hard process just made the product feel sweeter.

“We want to hit all the senses,” Rios says when asked on what he foresaw the end product of starting BKK Thai to be. “We want to serve fresh, healthy, and flavorful food and present it beautifully in a beautiful place. We want to give an experience.”

While it’s pretty early in the game, the clear-cut vision, the crisp attention to design and menu details, and the already overwhelming support of the community, it’s easy to see that BKK Thai is on its way to becoming a local favorite.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Thai Trivia: Many Thai people believe eating alone will bring bad luck. So when you come around and visit BKK Thai, be sure to bring your friends and family to enjoy the scrumptious meals with you!

3850 S Alameda, Suite 27 Corpus Christi, TX 361-232-8777

Cuisine | Dining Guide Hula Peach Fruit Hub & Cafe $ This locally owned tropical themed café, sources the finest produce and is committed to quality and freshness. 3823 S Staples, (361) 334-3773, Facebook.com/hulapeach JB’s German Bakery $ Committed to maintaining the highest German standard, every product is handmade following age-old German traditions and recipes. There are no short-cuts at JB’s. 15137 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-5474, Jbsgermanbakery.com

Sugarbakers $

Great cuisine with a French and European influence.

They use locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible with mostly everything made from scratch.

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

French Bleu Bistro $$$ True playful twists to classic French bistro dishes. The chef’s commitment to the use of fresh, local, peak-ofthe-season products is evident in the quality of each dish. 500 N Water St, (361) 887-2121, Bleubistrocc.com Dragonfly $$$ A fine multitude of international backgrounds to the cuisine prepared entirely from scratch daily by the owner and culinary artist. The menu is full of unforgettable flavor profiles to satisfy any craving.

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

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

Bella Luna Downtown $$

Authentic gourmet Italian cuisine always made fresh to order in the heart of The Marina Arts District.

429 Schatzell St, (361) 887-4777, Bellalunadowntown.com

Bellino’s $$

Comfortable and welcoming with a trattoria style authentic cuisine. You won’t find these dishes anywhere else in Corpus Christi! 3815 S Alameda St, (361) 8148998, 523 S. Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-9003, Bellinotexas.com

Brooklyn Pie Co. $ Enjoy a slice or indulge a whole “pie” of their delicious secret pizza tradition. 15326 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-1100, Brooklynpie.com Grimaldi’s Pizzeria $$ Distinctive and authentic pizza baked to perfection in a signature coal burning oven you can see right from your seat, offers a unique crisp flavor. 5488 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 980-8600, Grimaldispizzeria.com

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

511 Starr St, (361) 882-7625, Texashouseofrock.ticketfly.com Mamma Mia’s $$$ Warm and cozy mom and pop Italian experience will make you feel like family. Entrées are delicious Italian culture on a plate. 128 N Mesquite St, (361) 8833773, Facebook.com/mamma-mias Mesquite St. Pizza and Pasta Co. $$ Their 60-year-old pizza oven brought in straight from Brooklyn New York makes for the perfect pizza. Plus, all the crusts and sauces are made in house.

617 Mesquite St, (361) 882-7499, Eatpizzadowntown.com Padre Pizzeria $ For over 15 years, their famous Padre pizza dough is handmade, hand-tossed and prepared daily.

14493 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0787, Padrepizzeria.com Port “A” Pizzeria $$ Bring the kids, as this family-friendly pizzeria offers an all-day buffet, video games and draft beer. Or, order straight off the menu! 407 E Avenue G, (361) 7495226, Portapizzeria.com Trattoria Taddei $$ The chef’s recipes and experience, all with a genuine Italian flavor, come down from his home region’s authentic traditional cuisine personally passed from generation to generation over many centuries.

920 Louisiana Ave, (361) 884-4400, Trattoriataddei.com [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Venetian Hot Plate $$$ Quality cuisine and a quaint, yet energetic atmosphere, giving a real touch of Italy. 232 Beach St, (361) 749-7617, Venetianhotplate.com

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

Per uvian Costa Sur Wok & Ceviche Bar $$ This cevicheria is a true Peruvian party on your palette.

The dishes are fresh takes on traditional originals from Peru. 15113 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 9458303, Costasurcc.com

Seafood Black Marlin Bar & Grill $$$ Sit indoors, sit outdoors, see the Gulf Coast from any seat in the house while diving into top-quality coastal cuisine, live music and the best views around. 258 Snapdragon, (361) 749-4653, Blackmarlinbarandgrill. com Doc’s Seafood and Steaks $$ Lively and enjoyable selection for surf ‘n’turf in an open-air setting overlooking the water, plus live music.

13309 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6744, Docseafoodandsteaks.com Glow $$ From a renovated boathouse, they offer simply-cooked bistro fare using the best local seafood and produce.

Bright, relaxed atmosphere with white-washed ship lap wood walls and a full bar. 1815 Broadway St, (361) 727-2644, Glowrockport.com

Harrison’s Landing $$

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

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Cuisine | Dining Guide Island Time Sushi Bar & Seafood Grill $$ Stop in for fresh and inventive sushi, seafood, appetizers and desserts! Check out the weekday specials!

14225 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-3046, Facebook.com/islandtimesushi Laguna Reef $$ Bring in your own catch straight from your boat, or order off their tasteful menu! With excellent views of the marina, family owners & operators, Laguna Reef is the place to be. 4242 Laguna Shores Rd, (361) 937-2600, Bluffslanding.com/restaurant.php

Lance's Black Sheep Bistro $$

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

Latitude 28˚02’ $$$

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

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

Liberty Hall $$ Herbs and vegetables grown on site, your dining experience will be unforgettable!

106 E. Cotter, (361) 749-4888 facebook.com/LibertyHallPortA Lisabella’s Bistro $$$ Casual coastal elegance with a family-friendly setting.

The menu boasts a remarkable gourmet twist to your favorite fare, and a full bar that goes beyond just ordinary. The mermaids may even share their secrets.

5009 Hwy 361, (361) 749-4222, Cinnamonshore.com Rock & Rolls Sushi Lounge $$ At Rock & Rolls, they’re dishing out the most delectable and delicate fish from islands all over the world. Delight in a “sound check” or cold appetizer, an “opening act” or hot appetizer, then “plug in” for some rolls and sashimi! 15121 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 9491110, Rockandrollssushi.com Roosevelt’s at the Tarpon Inn $$$ Gourmet dining at its finest in a beautiful Louisiana style home that sets the perfect tone for a taste of luxury. Historic background gives a unique sense of its famous visitors. 200 E Cotter Ave, (361)749-1540, Rooseveltsatthetarponinn.com 86 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Saltwater Grill $$ Unique family atmosphere with fresh and tasty seafood that will leave you coming back for more.

2401 Cimarron Blvd, (361) 993-7258, Saltwatergrillcc.com Scuttlebutt’s Bar & Grill $$ Extensive menu makes sure to have something for everyone. Foods made from scratch from the dressings to the burger patties. 14254 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6769, Scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com

Seafood & Spaghetti Works $$ A unique dining experience, you’ll find the very best in seafood, steak, Italian dishes, pizza, soups, and desserts all made from scratch. 901 S Alister St, (361) 749-5666, seafoodandspaghettiworks.com Shells $$ Warm, inviting neighborhood restaurant offers a creative and far-ranging menu that reflects a variety of world cuisines. Shakes off the old and tired and gets down to real good food. 522 E Avenue G, (361) 749-7621, Eatatshells.com Shempy’s Grill $$ Laid-back setting with a variety of delightfully cooked fish will turn anyone into a seafood lover.

3913 Highway 35 S, (361) 727-0019, Facebook.com/Shempys Snoopy’s Pier $$ Outdoor dining experience and local harvested quality with an on-site fish house and shrimp breading facility that enables the freshness. 13313 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-8815, Snoopyspier.com The Boiling Pot $$ Roll up your sleeves and take manners to a new level for a great Cajun experience. 201 S Fulton Beach Rd, (361) 729-6972 The Pheonix $$ This international bistro/nouveau American fine-quality cuisine is prepared daily using many ingredients from the Corpus Christi Farmers' Market creating a constantly eclectic seasonal menu, where guests can choose to sit indoor and outdoor. 337 N Alister St, (361) 749-9277, Facebook/The-Phoenix-Restaurant-and-Bar Trout Street Bar & Grill $$$ Cajun-inspired seafood in an airy environment is a wondrous way to enjoy food and cocktails inside the nautical themed restaurant or on the outdoor deck offering marina views. 104 West Cotter, (361) 7497800, Tsbag.com

Casa de Oro Jewelers

4940 GOLLIHAR RD. CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 78412 361.991.7054 | WWW.CASADEOROJEWELERS.COM

CORPUS CHRISTI PAIN MEDICINE, P.A.

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• Accepting Medicare, Spohn, Humana, BCBS, Humana Gold, Cigna, 361.225.0089 | www.ccpainmed.com | “Se Habla Español” Tricare, Aetna, United Health Care, BCBS Blue Advantage, Workers Comp

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361.225.0089 • www.ccpainmed.com • “Se Habla Español” [the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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Striving for your

Best Smile Family | Restorative | Cosmetic The experience you can trust!

5756 S. Staples Ste. I, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 | 361.991.7791

88 The Bend

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

Cuisine | Dining Guide

Water Street Oyster Bar $$

Steakhouse

Long-standing, well-known Corpus Christi landmark operation serving oysters, sushi rolls & Gulf seafood in a historic, brick-walled space. 309 N Water St, (361) 881-9448, Waterstreetmarketcc.com

Water Street Seafood Company $$$

Locally-owned and-operated and voted “Best of the Best” seafood. Fish is fresh never frozen, while sauces and dressings are all made in house from scratch.

309 N Water St, (361) 882-8683, Waterstreetmarketcc.com

Yardarm $$$ Savory seafood dishes with great bay view seating.

Family owned gives off a special ambiance in the atmosphere as well as the entrees. 4310 Ocean Dr, (361) 855-8157

Thai

Katz 21 $$$ Sets the standard for premier fine dining experience.

Prime steakhouse specializes in dry-aged prime beef and fresh gulf coast seafood. 5702 Spohn Dr, (361) 884-1221, Katz21.com Niko’s Steakhouse $$$ Committed to the motto “Great food, Great times, Great experience.” Casual and elegant atmosphere that will exceed any steak lover’s expectations.

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

Republic of Texas $$$$

Thai Cottage $$ Unique and refreshing, Thai curries meet teriyaki and Chinese dishes in a cozy red cottage. 5830 McArdle Rd, (361) 993-0777, Thai-cottage.com

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

One of the top dining destinations. A multi-level steakhouse offers diners beautiful panoramic views of the CC Bay. All the ingredients for the perfect experience! 900 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 8871600, Omnihotels.com

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         

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| 160 U.S. Highway 181 West Taft, TX 78390 | www.mcnameelandscapesandnursery.com Landscape Plan: 1

Landscape Design by: Donna Mazzola

Revision #:

Scale:

Date: 3/24/2015

Landscapes magazine of the coastal bend] McNamee Schade = 10' lifestyle 1" [the

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History | Looking Back

The Buccaneer Days parade pirates storm the 400 block of N. Chaparral Street on May 3, 1938.

From Bathing Beauties to Buccaneers Corpus Christi has been holding festivals to officially kick off the summer season for a century.

By: Jillian Becquet Photo: courtesy of the John Fred’k ‘Doc’ McGregor Collection at the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History

K

icking off the summer season has officially been a cause for celebration in Corpus Christi for a century! One hundred years ago this summer, citizens looking for a good time to start their summer held the inaugural Splash Days festival. The centerpiece of this community event, which was held on North Beach, was a ‘bathing beauty’ contest. As Splash Days grew in popularity, it expanded with more offerings and the support of many local businesses to bring the community together to celebrate their city. Crowds filled North Beach, with its swimming pool and carnival, but the festival left citizens wanting a more excitement and activity-filled event.

90 The Bend

Thus, Buccaneer Days was born in 1938. The buccaneer theme, inspired by local pirate legend Jean Lafitte, meant no longer were swimsuits the attire of choice for the festival—pirates and pirate queens ruled the streets. Having no historical journals or ship logs that verify Lafitte ever came near Corpus Christi doesn’t stop the community’s upholding of the legend in full force, from flying the scull and crossbones to donning pirate attire and making the city’s Mayor walk the plank. Now that we’re celebrating Buc Days for an 80th time, no one can deny that pirates really are a fact in Corpus Christi’s history.

[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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[the lifestyle magazine of the coastal bend]

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91

ST CE R RT OK IFI E E D

Quality Rehabilitative Care - It Matters!

When looking for rehabilitative care, quality matters.

At Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital, we treat patients recovering from disabilities caused by injuries, illnesses and chronic medical conditions such as: • Strokes • Brain injuries • Spinal Cord injuries

• Amputations • Parkinson’s disease • Multiple sclerosis

• And more…

We are accredited by The Joint Commission and have earned the organization’s Gold Seal of Approval for our Advanced Stroke Rehabilitation Program.

Our goal is to help our patients return home with as much physical and cognitive independence as possible.

We are passionate about patient care and consider it a privilege to provide our community with quality rehabilitative care.

It matters.

CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM

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