2018 February

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3 ARTISTS AMPING UP OUR MUSIC SCENE

LEGENDS ARE REAL REAL COWBOYS IN A REAL WORLD

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FEBRUARY 2018 |

Music Issue

CONTENTS 34

66 40 AROUND THE BEND 20 | STYLE & BEAUTY 24 | CURRENTS 26 | TRENDING 28 | GIVING BACK 30 | 5 BEST 32 | PERSON OF INTEREST

HEALTH 50 | BE WELL 52 | MEDICAL MATTERS HOME & GARDEN 54 | OPEN HOUSE 60 | SPACES 62 | GARDENING

OUT & ABOUT 66 | ARTS & CULTURE 68 | DATE BOOK 70 | CELEBRATION 72 | SOCIAL HOUR CUISINE 78 | FARM TO TABLE 82 | THE DRINK 83 | DINING GUIDE 88 | THE DISH HISTORY 90 | LOOKING BACK

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

10 The Bend

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PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas

CONTRIBUTORS: Justin & Kayla Butts Jo Anne Howell Alexa Alley Jacqueline Gonzalez Alexis Mays Jinky Romero Marina Riker Jillian Becquet Carlos Cooper

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

Save Up to $500 361.808.7400

MANAGING EDITOR: Kylie Kinnett

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jason Page DeKwaan Wynn Brynn Osborn Michael Diamante

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: Jarred Schuetze

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: jordan@thebendmag.com

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Kalea Bennett

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

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

THE BEND OFFICE: 309 N. Water Street Corpus Christi, TX 78401 361.792.3606

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Benavides

SUBSCRIPTIONS: THEBENDMAG.COM

CONNECT WITH US @

thebendmag.com @thebendmag on Instagram and Twitter #CBLife

FAMILY DENTISTRY

On the cover:

The Coastal Bend’s

AK BACK I

E WAR

Y IS TR

NT O

Lifestyle Magazi

N

ne

LEGENDS ARE REAL COWBOYS

E MUSI C SCEN NG UP OUR 3 ARTISTS AMPI

MU

HOUSE

FEBRUARY 2018

12 The Bend

N

EL D

VOLUME 5/ISSUE2

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

COU

W

LASER DENTISTRY

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COSMETIC DENTISTRY

There is a local record store located in a busy strip of businesses along Alameda.

We’ve written about this cultural gathering space before. Our staff has sat on the couch in this shop to edit the magazine before. Needless to say, this record store means a great deal to us. When we were deciding what to do with our February cover, the cover of the Music Issue, it dawned on us: why not take a more literal approach to this. And, thus, an image of music, conveyed through the J nostalgia of vinyl, was created. Thank THE TURN UP you, Hybrid Records, for helping us bring our U ST Y vision to life.

REAL IN A REAL WORLD

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FEBRUARY / From The Desk Of

What was your most memorable experience while working on this issue?

Kaley Regas,

Production Director

After a seven-month maternity leave, I was excited to discuss plans for this cover – but we really struggled in the beginning. It wasn’t until the whole team put our heads together that we began to orchestrate a vision. That is truly the beauty of working with such creative people. Like a snowball, each concept thrown out evolved into the idea of artfully conveying a “music issue” through a record. My hope is that this cover provokes nostalgia of your love for music the way it does for me.

Chris Knapick, Director of Business Development

Getting to visit with the various businesses that make up our advertisers, I have heard so many positive comments about the outlook for 2018. Last year was such a difficult year for so many of the businesses in the Coastal Bend and to see such a positive attitude coming out of the challenges they faced encourages me and reminds me how blessed we really are. The Coastal Bend truly is a great place to live.

Jarred Schuetze, Associate Art Director

Style. The vagueness of the term can seem intimidating, but that’s what I love about it. I love being able to take a simple concept, like shoes, and pinpoint specific talking points to emphasize fashion trends and help educate the consumer. I’m extremely proud of this month’s style section on embellished shoes, and I couldn’t have done it without help from the fabulous women of Julian Gold, photographer Brynn Osborn, and model Catey Arnold.

14 The Bend

!

VIVA! LIVE MUSIC thebendmag.com

15

FEBRUARY / Letter From The Publisher

32. Her passion for the local music scene will get anyone excited about it’s history and future. I was surprised to discover that a record store once occupied the space where the Texas Surf Museum is today. Around the time it closed, Brad Lomax, owner of Water Street Restaurants, wanted to do something permanent to pay tribute to South Texas musicians.

Paving the Way

E

very day I take a walk down the South Texas Walk of Fame. The colorful, star shaped tiles line the patio of the Water Street Market right outside our office door. I am unfamiliar with many of the names, but I still sense a feeling of pride as I look at those stars. The stars themselves accurately represent the cultural diversity and history of our local music scene. The names are like many different notes coming together to form an elegant chord. This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Walk of Fame. I got the chance to meet Sue Donahoe, co-founder of the Walk of Fame, during a photo shoot for our Person of Interest column on page

Favorite Page

Sound is something we can’t see with our eyes, but there is something very real and permanent about a song or album. It sticks with us for years. It shapes culture and leaves a legacy. Vinyl records have recently made a return to popularity in our digital world. I believe this is partially due to the fact that music is something we want to hold.

We want there to be a record of it being here. That is one of the reasons I love magazines as well. Each month we have the privilege of showcasing and sharing the stories of artists shaping our culture today and the future of South Texas and the Coastal Bend. This month, we highlight three very different artists at different points in their careers. They all bring their own unique sound to the table, but as the title of the feature by Kylie Kinnett says on page 40, “If You Play It, They Will Come.”

Like the musicians who came before them, these artists, and many others in the Coastal Bend, are paving the way for those to come. I fully agree with DJ El Dusty when he says this city has talent to offer, and we are fully prepared to showcase those talents and make sure they are set up to thrive.

Jordan Regas, Publisher

Don’t miss Justin Butts’ article on page 34 about the Palo Verde Cattle Company. If you have ever wondered if cowboys still exist, the answer is right here. I couldn’t believe my eyes when I first saw the pictures. Michael Diamante did an incredible job capturing the beauty and mystery of working cattle the old-fashioned way.

16 The Bend

Where South Texas Buys Their Visit Our Newest Location at Staples & S.P.I.D • 5633 S.P.I.D • 361-906-0037 Ennis Joslin & S.P.I.D 7625 S.P.I.D 361-993-0845

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AROUND THE BEND STYLE & BEAUTY 20 CURRENTS 24 TRENDING 26 GIVING BACK 28 5 BEST 30 PERSON OF INTEREST 32

What’s Inside This season, focus below the ankle. Allow your shoes to be the perfect accessory by purchasing ones with embellishments. Opt out of the basic heel and go for something a little more fashion forward.

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AROUND THE BEND / STYLE & BEAUTUY

embellished

SHOES – focusing below the ankle

By: Jarred Schuetze Photos: Brynn Osborn Shoes: Julian Gold In need of a way to turn heads on your next date-night? Skip the predictable, mono-tone heel that you begrudgingly reach for on the daily and add a stylish spring to your step with some bold embellished footwear. Whether you’re trying to keep it casual with skinny jeans and a tank or get flashy with a lavish gown, bejeweled, draped, and studded shoes are the perfect way to elevate any outfit.

No matter the occasion or your personal style, the perfect pair of flashy heels is out there for you. From sleek and elegant statement pumps like the black suede pearl sandal by Stuart Weitzman, to a delicate, cherry red heel by Rebecca Minkoff featuring romantic floral draping. Have a cocktail party to attend? Slip on the gold-tone patent leather Soul Rockstud sandals from Valentino featuring an open toe, gold Rockstud embellishments, an ankle strap and low block heel and be the name on everyone’s lips.

Can’t get enough of these beautifully embellished heels?

Shop the local selection at Julian Gold where their expert staff will help find you the stylish spring that’s been missing from your step.

20 The Bend

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Special Promotion

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GIFT GUIDE

Love is in the air here in the Coastal Bend, so we’ve teamed up with some amazing local shops to bring you trendy, hot ticket items perfect for that special someone this year. In lieu of the typical chocolates and roses, go for something bold and fabulous.

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4. SHANKARA’S DEEP CLEANSING TREATMENT - 100% CHEMICAL FREE

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5. “I LOVE YOU MORE” BRACELET IN GARNET - BY RONALDO

Hamlin Fountain & Gifts $143 3801 S. Staples St., Corpus Christi, TX hamlinfg.com • 361.853.7303 thebendmag.com

23

AROUND THE BEND / CURRENTS

CURRENTS By: Jarred Schuetze

We Cannot Contain Our Excitement Beloved local coffee shop, Island Joes, has officially begun construction on their new establishment. Without a doubt the relocated Island Joes will serve as a unique attraction for locals and visitors alike. The new shop will be constructed by stacking and modeling ten shipping containers together to create a one of a kind, two story complex. The complex will continue its traditions of events, open mic nights, game nights, and movie nights but will be able to do so in a much larger and dynamic space. Stay up to date with their construction progress and scheduled happenings by following them on social media @islandjoescc. www.islandjoescc.com

Attention Lovers of Selena

In early March, a bilingual biography, The Life of/La Vida de Selena is set to be released. This children’s mini-book is written and published by Patty Rodriguez and Ariana Stein of Lil’ Libros Publishing and features illustrations from artist Citlali Reyes. The book is written in both English and Spanish and tells the story of pop icon Selena Quintanilla’s journey from humble beginnings to stardom.

The book is available for pre-order for $8.99 on Amazon. www.amazon.com/Life-Vida-Selena-Bilingual-Unauthorized

Re-Treat Yourself

If you’re looking to sit back, relax, and be pampered we have just the spot for you. The Retreat Exclusive Salon & Spa is a new business that offers services such as hair, make-up, and massages while providing an unparalleled tranquil atmosphere. The exceptional design elements featured in this salon and spa will leave you feeling inspired, refreshed, and beautiful.

The grand opening of the salon is scheduled for early February, so mark your calendars!

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24 The Bend

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

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4500 Ocean #5C - Landmark | $375,000 | 2/2 | Waterfront

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8002 El Chiflon | $412,000 | 4/3/3 438 Delaine | $389,900 | 4/3/2

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

106 Alta Plaza | $549,900 | 4/3/2 | Pool

10 Hewit | $750,000 | Vacant lot

3913 Ocean - $2,250,000

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AROUND THE BEND / TRENDING

Breaking The Ice Is one of your resolutions to be more social? To make more friends or maybe just engage in casual conversations with fellow locals? There’s no better ice-breaker than cracking the tab on a local brew. Lorelei Brewing Co. is the first brewery in Corpus Christi to distribute canned craft beer and their Khyseius Blonde Ale and Ephyra Double IPA are definite crowd pleasers. Grab your Lorelei beer, pack it up in a stylish insulated tote bag, which can also be a conversation starter, and hit the beach! There are plenty of new people to meet, so get out there and break the ice.

KHR YS E I S BLONDE AL E Lore l ei B rew i ng Co m pa ny

$ 8 . 99/ 6pk EP HYRA DOUBL E I PA Lore l ei B rew i ng Co m pa ny

$ 8 . 99/ 4pk ICEB RE AK E R - L ARGE INSUL ATE D TOTE Be l l a Jew el

$28

OF THE

WHAT WE CAN’T STOP TALKING ABOUT

By: Jarred Schuetze Photo by: Rachel Benavides

Bittersweet One of our favorite Coastal Bend boutiques, Bella Jewel, will offically be closing the doors to their physical location in Taylor Center.

Don’t fret – you will still be able to shop their trendy merchandise online at shopbellajewel.com

LET US BRING YOUR REMODELING IDEAS TO LIFE!

Additions • Kitchens • Bathrooms • New Construction • 3D Renderings CORPUS CHRISTI’S TOP-RATED CONTRACTOR

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Appointments scheduled on Valentine’s Day will receive a gift bag.

1HR - $150 (reg. $160)

4646 CORONA DR. STE.172 • 361.947.0958 • WWW.CCMASSAGECENTER.COM thebendmag.com

27

AROUND THE BEND / GIVING BACK

Fulfilling the Needs of Families CarePortal offers a platform to help families and children in crisis by offering aid provided by local churches

T

By: Jonathan Garcia Photos by: Rachel Benavides

here are tons of children and families in dire need of major necessities in life—ranging from mentoring, groceries, and even a bed to sleep on. But, due to unforeseen hardships, it is impossible for the family in that household to provide for their children. This sometimes results in the Department of Family Protective Services having to relocate the child and placing them in a foster home. But, one platform aims to aid families that are going through this tough crisis.

CarePortal is a platform created by The Global Orphan Project. CarePortal connects Child Welfare agencies to local churches to help children and families in crisis by submitting a request for help online. Pastor of Emmaus Church in Corpus Christi and Pastoral Ambassador for CarePortal in South Texas, Joel Perritte, recently fulfilled one family’s need of two beds since theirs were destroyed by Hurricane Harvey.

“Through CarePortal, we received an e-mail request submitted by a local case worker and we were able to get that family in our neighborhood new beds,” Perritte said. As a Pastoral Ambassador, Perritte’s area covers all of South Texas. He’s a part of CarePortal team which oversees requests that are submitted around the Coastal Bend.

So, how does it work? Local churches receive requests from Child Welfare workers who submit on the platform which utilizes GEO Radius Technology. CarePortal then sends an invitation to local churches that want to help a particular family fulfil their need and the church contact responds to the request by taking on the task or sending a message to other churches nearby to help fulfil the needs. Currently, the Department of Family and Protective Services is the agency partnered with CarePortal in Nueces County. However, in February CarePortal is

28 The Bend

expanding their partnerships to include the Pregnancy Center of the Coastal Bend.

Perritte also stated that CarePortal is preparing to launch in Aransas County by expanding the technology to help with Hurricane Harvey relief. The expected launch date for specialized Harvey Relief efforts is in February, but in order to make this happen at least five local churches in Aransas County must be enrolled and according to Perritte it’s very close to being a reality.

He added that because of this platform, “Just by doing a little to help children in need, child welfare culture has grown immeasurably in my church through participation in CarePortal.”

Those interested in helping out can enroll their church in CarePortal at careportal.org/churches/enroll. Anyone wanting to help out with Hurricane Harvey relief can do so by visiting careportal.org/join-a-community.

Some statistics and facts from CarePortal: In less than four years 1,393 churches have served 19,505 children in 13 states and have had a nationwide economic impact of over 7 million dollars.

In just over a year, 25 CarePortal churches in Nueces County , served 460 children in crisis with an economic impact of over $126,000.

ST R RT OK IFI E E

CE

D

Heads Up on Preventing Brain Injuries While many of us enjoy watching the Winter Olympics, a downside of this popular event includes head injuries that can occur with the athletes.

But not only dare-devil athletes are at risk for head injuries. They can occur anytime, anywhere, with anyone. They can be prevented, however, without epic – or Olympian – effort: • Wear your seatbelt.

• Buckle your child in the appropriate safety seat, booster, or seatbelt.

• Never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Shut your cell phone off while in the car. Don’t talk or text.

• Wear a helmet with appropriate activities.

• For older adults, remove tripping hazards like throw rugs or clutter in the home.

Install handrails on stairs. Improve lighting in the house.

• For smaller children, use window guards and safety gates around stairs.

Keep stairway doors closed and locked.

Learn more about Corpus Christi Rehabilitation Hospital’s brain injury rehabilitation program at 361-906-3700.

CCRH.ERNESTHEALTH.COM

Follow Us thebendmag.com

29

5726 Esplanade Drive • Corpus Christi, TX 78414 • ph: 361.906.3700

AROUND THE BEND / 5 BEST

5

Best

Mac & Cheese By: Jacqueline Gonzales

A delicious concoction of cheesy sauce, warm noodles, and the occasional added ingredient to satisfy your comfort food palate 1. Grub Burger Bar: Originating in 2012, Grub Burger Bar delivers its unique approach to food in a relaxing, fun environment. Along with their delicious menu items, you can order a heaping serving of mac and cheese, topped with bacon. It is so delicious, they not only carry it as a side, they’ve also added it along with their signature patty, and birthed their most popular menu item- the Mac and Cheese burger. Don’t just eat—grub!

4902 South Staples, A-1, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361)444-2424

2. Water Street Oyster Bar: Known for satisfying the seafood cravings of many South Texans since 1983, Water Street prides itself on food, service, and people. Regardless of which popular seafood dish you choose, be sure to indulge in their Smoked

30 The Bend

Gouda Mac and Cheese. This deliciously cheesy dish is topped with bread crumbs for an added flair, and will complement any seafood choice, while making your taste buds dance.

309 Water Street. Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 881-9448

3. The Post: Though typically praised for their extensive cocktail list and gastro-pub atmosphere, most are unaware that The Post at Lamar Park also serves up one of the most mouth-watering mac n cheese dishes in the Coastal Bend. They start by mixing American, Smoked Gouda, Aged Cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses with truffle oil; then top it with a generous helping of tasty lobster and finish it off with toasted panko bread crumbs. It truly is a masterpiece in and of itself. 411 Doddridge St #102, Corpus Christi, TX 78411

4. 8te: Designated as one of the hippest restaurants in town, 8te is known for making ordinary dishes extraordinary. Although this is simply a side dish, the Skillet Mac and Cheese from 8te is a must try. With the noodles drowning in the rich, bubbling cheese sauce, this "nosh" will have you drooling. 1220 Airline Rd #250, Corpus Christi, TX 78412 (361) 723-0261

5. Munchies Bus: As one of the most popular chef owned and operated, contemporary food trucks in South Texas, Munchies Bus delivers only the highest quality products for their customers. Using all natural, healthy ingredients, they bring to life authentic Mexican style mixed with tropical Puerto Rican flavor. Chef Tony’s homemade mac and cheese can be found, sandwiched in with other ingredients in the OG Philly Mac – a Munchies Bus favorite! (860) 961-6606

Fall in Love with Yourself this Valentine’s Day...

Love the Way You Look Please visit us at our new location - 5624 Esplanade Dr.

re information on our Mommy Makeover, call or visit our website

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who has been practicing in Corpus Christi for the last decade. Dr. Vijay trained at the prestigious University of Southern California and is an Air Force Veteran. He enjoys every aspect of Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery. Please visit our website for more information on Dr. Vijay, his staff and the procedures we offer.

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31

AROUND THE BEND / PERSON OF INTEREST

MEET

Sue Donahoe

Co-founder and Director of the South Texas Music Walk of Fame speaks on the legacy of and plans for this public attraction By: Kylie Kinnett Photos by: DeKwaan Wynn

WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION TO THE SOUTH TEXAS MUSIC WALK OF FAME? In 2003, Brad Lomax was preparing to celebrate

the 20th anniversary of the Water Street Oyster Bar. He asked me to help him think of a “thank you gift” that he could give to people of Corpus Christi. “Something permanent, something special,” he said, “something that’s not about me.” My late husband, Mike, came up with the idea. We had owned a tiny record store in downtown Austin in the 1990’s. All over the streets of the city are stars honoring famous Texans. We adapted the concept to honor musicians from our area.

WHAT DO YOU THINK THE IMPORTANCE OF THE SOUTH TEXAS MUSIC WALK OF FAME IS TO OUR COMMUNITY AND CULTURE?

The Walk serves as a mirror, reflecting our cultural diversity and abundance. It has appeared on hundreds of websites and Facebook pages, and has become recognized by music fans worldwide as a great tribute to great talent. Locals take pride in it and tourists are in awe of it.

32 The Bend

I KNOW YOU HAVE A LOVE FOR CORPUS CHRISTI, AND ESPECIALLY DOWNTOWN. WHAT DO YOU THINK IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT THIS PLACE? Our downtown is not much bigger than a

mall—which makes it exactly the right size to offer the best features of Austin, the French Quarter, and London. When I walk through our downtown today, I see a thrilling potential for the development of a wide variety of small businesses—which could form an organic, stable, and vibrant business community.

2018 IS THE 15TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SOUTH TEXAS MUSIC WALK OF FAME. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? A book! This year we

will begin writing a book about the history of the Walk. It will include all the info that is in the library archive, as well as personal stories about each year’s event. It will also include a complete list of all the nominees. To that end, we are putting out a call for nominations; let’s make that list long. The book will be beautiful, loaded with Bob Redding’s amazing photos, and deserving of proper presentation. We hope to capture the interest of a regional or university press for publication in 2019. Oh, and in June, we’ll unveil the new stars!

TRUST A TRADITION YOU CAN

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WHERE LEGENDS ARE REAL BY: JUSTIN BUTTS PHOTOS BY: MICHAEL DIAMANTE

34 The Bend

YOU DON’T HAVE TO TRAVEL BACK TO THE OLD WEST TO SEE REAL COWBOYS WORKING CATTLE

SOME JOBS IN SOUTH TEXAS

have not changed since the days of the Old West. At Palo Verde Cattle Company, just north of Beeville, cowboys still round up cattle the old-fashioned way, from the backs of their horses.

But they don’t call it a round-up and they don’t call themselves cowboys. Tim Fitch, Managing Partner of Palo Verde Cattle Company, calls it a “cattle working” and the men who do the work are “hands” or “contract labor.” There are no pretensions here. Nothing in this business is romanticized.

Fitch has been working cattle for thirty years. After graduating from Texas A&M with a degree in Range Science, he moved to the ranch country outside Beeville looking for job opportunities. He soon partnered with the esteemed Lucas family.

The Lucas’ have owned thousands of acres of prime ranch land since the 1800s. Fitch and Richard Lucas launched their ranching partnership in 1988.

They work the cattle, or round them up and bring them in, twice per year. The cattle are rotationally grazed out on lush pastures. There are 350 cows in this herd, most of them with calves running alongside. The herd must be brought from the distant pasture into pens to be vaccinated,

“cowboy” is not concept; it is a job.

Tim Fitch has only one full-time employee, a serious and intense worker named Renny. Extra hands must be hired for the big job of a cattle working. For this job, Fitch has hired Jeremy Fortenberry and his ten-year old son, Cash, as well as David Guerra and his son, David Jr. These hands, real-life cowboys, don’t have a website, a Facebook page, or business cards. They advertise strictly through word of mouth. The best of them keep steady work and those who can’t tolerate the heat, the cold, the pain—those without a sheer love of the business—do not last.

weighed, weaned, and sorted, and then sent back out to pasture. Moving so many cows through this process is no easy feat. This is where the cowboys come in.

TRUE COWBOYS

Cowboy is a loaded word in Texas, with connotations of myth and folklore. Most children growing up in Texas are influenced in some way by the ethos of the cowboy; embracing it, rejecting it, or vaguely acknowledging the cowboy as an archetype of manhood. On this ranch,

The cows do not always cooperate. They stomp and snort, run the wrong direction, cut back into the herd, or simply stand and bawl. The hands keep the cattle moving continually through the process. Calves need Tim Fitch and his Palo special coaxing to be separated from Verde Cattle Company their moms, and this coaxing comes beef can be found at from horses deftly maneuvered to split the Downtown Farmer’s them, or a hand on the ground who Market on Wednesdays swings a gate at the right moment. The

and the Padre Island Farmer’s Market every other Thursday.

36 The Bend

The job of the hands is to push the cattle from the pasture to the corral, then through chutes to be sorted into smaller pens. One or two hands work from the ground, opening and closing gates, while several of the hands work from horseback cutting cows and calves from the herd to run them through the sorting pens.

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hands communicate through short commands barked over the lowing of the cattle.

These men, masters of their trade, who are cowboys by very definition, do not call themselves cowboys. They are proud but not pretentious; they are okay to be called “hands.” The term acknowledges the tough reality of the work, not the legends of old. “I guess you could call me a cowboy,” said Jeremy Fortenberry. “It’s a dying breed.”

Fortenberry works by contract for days or weeks at a time on ranches as small as 50 acres or bigger than 5,000 acres. The larger ranches provide cow camps that include a bunk house, food cooked on fires, and the rowdy and raucous atmosphere of men who work in the extremes of tedium and danger. “Some people take their wrenches to work,” said Fortenberry. “I take a horse to work.”

Fortenberry brings his young son, Cash, to work with him. Cash goes to school, but every day he is not in the classroom, he is on the back of his horse, working cattle next to his dad. Cash, at ten years old, is already an experienced and talented hand.

“Cash wants to grow up and do what his dad does, work cattle,” said Fortenberry. “But I want him to go to college and get a degree, and he can do this on weekends.” Fortenberry wants options for his son because he knows how dangerous the work can be.

“When you work with horses and cows, it’s not if you get hurt, it’s when,” he said. Fortenberry was once thrown from his horse while roping a cow. The cow ran and the horse followed for 75 yards, pulling Fortenberry at full gallop by his ankle caught in the stirrup. When he got his foot loose, Fortenberry stood up, bruised, bloodied, and covered in thorns, lucky to still be standing. He climbed back on his horse and finished the day.

Fortenberry has never missed a day of work and has never gone home early.

When asking Fortenberry why he does this work, he responds without reluctance, “that’s easy: freedom.” Fortenberry is giving his son not only these unbelievable experiences on the back of a horse, but also an education in discipline, responsibility, and grit that he could learn nowhere else. He is teaching his son a love of freedom that will propel this business into the next generation.

MAKING A LIVING AS A COWBOY

Tim Fitch works full-time as Managing Partner of Palo Verde Cattle Company. The company leases 8,500 acres of prime grazing land from the Lucas family. “We couldn’t have done any of this without their continued support,” said Fitch of the Lucases. “They have been very good to us.”

But Fitch acknowledged that it is difficult for anyone to make a living in agriculture. Most hands work side jobs bailing hay,

Tim Fitch, Managing Partner of Palo Verde Cattle Company running fences, operating heavy equipment, or any work they can find between round-ups. Fitch works a side job as a pilot. He has towed advertising banners during Spring Break from South Padre Island up to Port Aransas, at Texas A&M football games, and various special events. These days, Fitch works as a private contractor inspecting pipelines with his plane, flying the pipeline network of South Texas looking for leaks and safety hazards. True cowboys seem to seek freedom where they can find it: on the land, on the back of a horse, or in the sky.

WHERE TO FIND GRASS-FED BEEF

Tim Fitch sells his Palo Verde Cattle Company grassfed beef at farmer’s markets around the Coastal Bend.

He takes extraordinary care to produce the highest quality grass-fed beef. His care extends from the breeding, where he sires with a champion Angus bull, through the butchering, where he dry ages his beef.

His work yields steaks, roasts, and ground beef of an unbelievable tenderness and flavor.

When asking Fitch what matters most to him, there was no hesitation: family. If you visit Fitch at one of the local farmers’ markets, you will usually see one or more of his daughters in the booth and his grandchildren running and playing at his feet. The Fitches, the Fortenberrys, the Guerras, the Lucases; ranching is a family business. The time-worn myths about cowboys are true–the tenacity, the toughness, the love of freedom. The legends are real and this is what they look like.

thebendmag.com

39

The Corpus Christi music scene is growing and these three artists will stop at nothing to make sure others are aware of the talent this place has to offer.

BY: KYLIE KINNETT

40 The Bend

A DJ

took the simple of

house music and added a Cumbia flare in order to create a sound unlike any other. A girl with a dream took the lack of Jazz music in Corpus as a sign to bring her free-flowing, powerful voice to our ears. A boy in the backseat of a car took inspiration from The Beach Boys and Elvis and brought a type of Texas Country to us we didn’t know we needed. Three very different artists, all with very different sounds, speak on their shared passion: music.

thebendmag.com

41

GET THE MOVES

Tropicoso, El Dusty’s brainchild, is the biggest dance party in town and we can only expect it to be bigger and better this time around.

HITING THE BIG TIME

He was nominated for a Latin Grammy for “Best Urban/Fusion Performance” for his collaboration with Happy Colors, “Cumbia Anthem” in 2016.

42 The Bend

HOUSE

CUMBIA

El Dusty There is a small haven tucked away on Peoples

with headphones on, taking on the persona of a

St. where Dusty Oliveira (otherwise known as

DJ even before the age of five. While in the fifth

El Dusty) and his team lock themselves away 12

grade, his brother came home one day with a set

hours a day, everyday. This haven serves as a stu-

of turntables, Technics SL-1200 to be exact, and it

dio, a creative safe space, and a place where cul-

was then everything kind of just clicked.

ture is constantly being cultivated. The walls are lined with vinyl and Sasha, Dusty’s Chihuahua,

Since then, Dusty hasn’t stopped. With his record

guards the building like it is her day job. In this

deal with Universal Records, his first full length

building, many ideas have been thought up and

album to be released in March, and a two-month

brought to fruition. Skeletons of songs have been

tour beginning shortly after that, it is easy to see

constructed and then mixed and layered until the

why he has begun to pave the way for musici-

outcome proved to be just right. This isn’t where

ans, of all types, to get their craft off the ground

El Dusty entertains his hobby—it is where he puts

here in Corpus Christi. “There is so much talent

himself to work, where he creates art, and where

here—undiscovered talent. I think the issue is

he engulfs himself into his music.

there isn’t enough coverage of that talent, we need exposure,” he says. “We have to let people

Mixing cultures together is how Dusty achieved his sound. “The basis and inspiration to it all is Latin music, of course, but the stuff I am making is different,” he says in reference to his particular genre of music. “It has a lot of trap and hip-hop elements. I mean if you look at the first song I did, K Le Pasa, and you take the sample off of it, it was really just a dance, house song—so you know, we are blending genres.”

Born and raised in the Coastal

know that there is something

Just this past November, Texas Monthly included El Dusty in their article, “20 Things You Need to Know About Texas Music in 2017,” as well as Rolling Stone’s “10 New Artists You Need to Know” in October of 2015.

happening here in Corpus.

Musicians need to know they can stay here if they want and pursue their dreams.”

While Dusty is well on his way to the top, he puts emphasis on the fact that Corpus has, and always will be, home.

He speaks on his investment to this community with a smile similar to the likes of a proud dad. “We came, we are here, and we haven’t left,” he

Bend, Dusty has always felt

says. He believes in the city

particularly inclined to pursue a

and the talent it has to offer

music career, even from a very

and he is fully prepared to

young age. He reminisces back

do what it takes to make sure

to his garage where his dad had

those talents are nurtured

some equipment set up. He

and setup to thrive.

remembers there being 8-tracks and swapping them around

Photo by: Dustin Ashcraft thebendmag.com

43

Photo by: Rachel Benavides

Victoria Majors

With multiple rings adorning each of her fingers and a soft-spoken voice, Victoria Majors begins to explain where her passion for music comes from. She remembers listening to the Bee Gees when she was five and then deciding she would teach herself to sing. She participated in school choir her whole life and would eventually go on to major in Opera Singing in college. It was then she decided she needed to shift her course a bit. Jazz seemed to be the best jumping point, and so she took the leap.

“I just kind of felt like I was being drawn to Jazz. The way the women sang back then, I mean, you can literally feel their soul vibrating in the music,” she says when asked what drew her to jazz. She knew what she wanted to do, all she needed was to find the perfect band to accompany her, and destiny decided to pay her a visit. She found her band who had already been playing together for half their life, and approached them—the rest was history.

Together, they make up the Crystal Persuasion and their sound hits you like a nostalgic slap in the face. When playing, they take you to a hole-in-the-wall club in New Orleans, completely submersing their audience into a different time, a different era. It is simple and elegant, all while being rough and jagged at the same time. “There is a science to Jazz you know,” Victoria says. “Sometimes it sounds rather random, or improved, which it can be, but there is an arithmetic to it, that holds it all together.”

An album for Victoria is on the horizon, but she talks about how she doesn’t want to rush it. The concept she has for the record is taking old Jazz songs that don’t have any lyrics and writing them to the music. “I am just always waiting for inspiration,” she says in regard to her creative process behind the record. “I will get inspired by love and life, but then I will also find inspiration in something as simple as sake. So, I just wait for it to come to me.”

Victoria recognizes the movement taking place here in Corpus, and she feels as though the more places like downtown grow, the more inspired people feel to make their music and put it out there for others. “Take the Artwalk for example,” she says. “You walk around and there are bands on every street corner and it is amazing—I wish it was like that all the time. This city is expanding and growing, and with that, comes more room for people to feel more comfortable to pursue their dreams and have others be accepting of it.”

With several shows a week, Victoria Majors definitely doesn’t plan on slowing down anytime soon. She knows this is what she was meant to do. She speaks about music and Jazz as if it is her calling in life and she is steadfast in curating her craft.

WHERE TO WATCH Want to catch Victoria Majors and her band in their element? Not to worry, they have various shows you can attend weekly!

They play every Wednesday at Katz 21 from 7 to 11 pm.

Other upcoming shows: February 15th at Katz 21 from 8 to 10 pm, February 16th at the 44th Annual Stage Door Canteen 15 Piece Band and 4 Vocals beginning at 8 pm, February 17th at the Oso Pier, and February 22nd at Lisabellas from 6 to 8 pm.

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Country Photo credited: Natalie Rhea Riggs

Jake Ward Elvis, The Beach Boys, Johnny Cash, and George Straight—all artists Jake Ward fondly remembers listening to while in the backseat of the car as a child. It was those earlier influences that helped shape him into the artist he is today. He had always had a general liking towards Country music, however it wasn’t until he heard “Just a Matter of Time” by the Randy Rodgers band, that he fell in love with Texas Country, and decided to pursue it.

Growing up in the church allowed Jake to always be involved in a choir. His love for music expanded through that and by participating in theatre productions. By the time he got to high school, he was already writing his own lyrics and music and he knew this is how he wanted to spend the rest of his life. Living in South Texas proved to be very beneficial for Jake, as the Texas Country music scene is vast. “Corpus Christi

46 The Bend

has pretty much molded me into the artist I am today,” he says with a smile. “I know I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of all the fans and the local radio stations here.”

His sound can be described as a high-energy blend of Classic Country and Contemporary Rock, all meshed perfectly together with rich harmonies. Jake’s soulful tone is highlighted by other elements his band brings such as the classic twang of the fiddle or contemporary guitar riffs. In 2015, Jake and his band released their first full length album with ten original songs. It didn’t take long for people to notice and understand the talent these guys had. With three hit singles the band made their mark on the scene and they weren’t going anywhere but up.

In regard to the Corpus music scene, Jake is excited and optimistic about its future. “Oh, it is growing,” he says without hesitation. “Having new artists perform practically every week is a great thing. I think it is

WHATS NEW His newest single, “Not too Far to Reach” now has a music video out and is the title track off his newest EP.

THE TOP

Jake Ward’s first song, “Hit the Road” made it to the Top 100 Texas radio songs of 2014 and the hype didn’t stop after that. His next three singles all reached number 1.

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Four Chicks in the Park | 361.854.4446

going to continue to expand and we will see more and more artists come out of that growth.”

As for the future for Jake, he says we can plan on seeing him and his band work their tails off this year. His newest single, “Not Too Far to Reach,” quickly made its way to the number 19 spot on Texas Country music charts, and he recently released a music video for it as well.

“This year is really all about growth, and we really can’t wait to see what is in store for us.”

The band has played with some of the biggest names in Texas Country, including: Aaron Watson, Chris Young, Randy Rogers, and Kevin Fowler.

|

361.452.1472

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47

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HEALTH BE WELL 50 MEDICAL MATTERS 52

What’s Inside There are tons of new trends in the world of yoga. The latest one to hit the Coastal Bend is goat yoga—yes, goat yoga.

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49

HEALTH / BE WELL

yoga emerged a little over a year ago in Oregon and has since captured hearts and minds across the nation. Classes can now be found in locations ranging from the Denver International Airport to more expected venues, such as farms in New Hampshire and California.

Yogis and yoginis who teach classes boast about the benefits—namely, a major attitude adjustment—that comes with exercising in the presence of playful, barnyard animals.

“Maybe you’re not interested in yoga and wellness, but you’re in it for the fun element,” said Burns.

When Burns first heard people were combining the furry creatures with yoga practices, she knew she had to try it.

Burns, who’s been teaching yoga here in Corpus Christi for nearly 15 years, grew up around goats. Her grandparents were goat farmers, and she recalls helping birth babies and bottle feeding them as they grew up. When she found out about goat yoga, she was most surprised that other people would want to do it, too.

Not Your Normal Yoga Youga Yoga brings goat yoga to the Coastal Bend By: Marina Riker Photos by: Rachel Benavides

T

he sounds of laughter fill the air, and a goat starts to nibble on your clothing. This is not your normal yoga class.

Sure enough, the classes held in the Coastal Bend have been a huge success—the first class was capped at around 40 people with others on a waitlist. Burns partners with Thompson Dairy Farm, which has hauled about 20 goats to locations ranging from the Corpus Christi Food & Wine Festival to Lorelei Brewing Company.

“The goats come up and actually start nibbling on their clothes,” said Burns. “There’s a lot of laughter.”

Burns is gearing up to host more classes in February 2018 when Thompson Dairy Farm will be welcoming a new herd of baby goats, Burns said. She hopes to continue the goat yoga classes, and potentially expand to yoga with horses.

‘Goat yoga’ is a phenomenon taking the nation by storm, which mixes traditional yoga practice with the company of free-roaming goats. The alternative yoga class has made it all the way to the Coastal Bend, where one of Corpus Christi’s most established yoginis has offered classes at breweries and festivals.

As a yoga teacher, Burns’ main goal is to boost her students’ mental health through a physical yoga practice. Burns, who also works as a psychologist and professor at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, said she sees goat yoga and other alternative classes as a way to attract all walks of the community to a healthy activity.

“The first time I saw it, I was like, ‘Well, I know I would love to do it,’” said Lindy Burns, who founded Youga Yoga in Corpus Christi. Goat

“My goal is to enrich the community,” said Burns, and there is no doubt goat yoga is doing just that.

50 The Bend

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51

HEALTH / MEDICAL MATTERS

The Heart of Health The Nueces County Medical Society has a new president and he is more than ready for the role

F

By: Alexis Mays Photos by: Rachel Benavides

or Dr. Justin Hensley, the new year started in December 2017. That’s when he became the 2018 President of the Nueces County Medical Society—a position that continues through this December. The Nueces County Medical Society has been committed to the Coastal Bend for more than 114 years.

Established in 1904, a big part of their seven-part purpose is to serve the medical needs of our community.

Just one way they do this is through the Nueces County Medical Society Health Fair. Each year, the NCMS president, staff, and members bring their mission to life through programs and events. Dr. Hensley is stepping into his new role at a pivotal time because the Health Fair may be annual, but the vision of it is brand new. “We want the Health Fair to be geared towards promoting overall healthiness,” says Dr. Hensley. “We want to promote a healthy lifestyle and preventative care.”

That’s why vendors will range from physician’s offices to gyms to experts on healthy cooking. “We have to think big picture with health,” Dr. Hensley explains. “When we can prevent disease instead of just managing it, you will live a longer, healthier, and happier life.”

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Health Fair on August 11, 2018.

It is the perfect time to bring the whole family—especially children, to help get them ready for back-to-school time. In the meantime, you can join in on another way the NCMS is living out their mission. It’s called “Walk with a Doc” and it is exactly as it sounds. Coastal Bend residents can lace up for a 1-mile walk around the hike and bike trail at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi on the first Saturday of every month.

This initiative, which is popular nationwide, is now being facilitated by our medical society office and physicians.

52 The Bend

“This is an environment where you can connect with your docs,” says Dr. Hensley.

“It’s a group of doctors and patients who come together to enjoy the sunshine and talk about health.”

Also happening this year, Dr. Hensley will work on the youth bicycle hat program, Hard Hats for Little Heads, and an immunization awareness initiative called ‘Be Wise, Immunize.’

When he isn’t helping plan city-wide health fairs or public events, Dr. Hensley looks forward to also using his year as President to continue engaging with the community and members of the medical society. Dr. Hensley, who has started this year with a running start, is no doubt helping blaze a trail that is helping to create a healthy year, and many more to come.

STOP BY AND SEE THE NEW EXPANSION

Stay connected with the Nueces County Medical Society online, over-the-phone, or in person: www.nuecesmedsociety.org | (361) 884-5442 | 1000 Morgan Ave., Corpus Christi

Facts and stats about the Nueces County Medical Society Health fair.

More than 4,000 attended the Health Fair – and just as many are expected this year 1,796 health screenings and 221 immunizations were administered (free of charge!)

Over 100 people became prepared for an emergency by taking the American Heart’s CPR class 272 students were ready for the school year because they got their annual student physical, and hundreds received free bicycle helmets

thebendmag.com

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The Rancho Vista

Join Braselton Homes and the Gulf Coast Humane Society for an afternoon of food and fun to raise support for our furry friends in the Coastal Bend.

FREE ADMISSION

Date: 2.17.2018 Time: 1pm - 3pm Location: 7801 Rancho Vista Blvd. West 54 The Bend

HOME & GARDEN OPEN HOUSE 54 SPACES 60 GARDENING 62

What’s Inside Who says your china has to be stored away in a dusty cabinet? Get creative and pull those old pieces out for the world to see!

thebendmag.com

55

HOME & GARDEN / OPEN HOUSE

RUSTIC RETREAT Outdoor living meets rustic charm, adding to the warmth, character, and soul of this gorgeous home.

F

By: Jacqueline Gonzales Photos: Rachel Benavide

ormerly owned by Ann and Tony Jataine, founders of the Corpus Christi Produce Company, the large 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on Carmel Parkway, in the popular Lamar Park subdivision, was the perfect canvas for Robert Suggs and Russell Moody to carry out the visions of their dream home. Handmade pieces and local art

by Deborah Males, Sheila Rogers, and Rita Bryant add to the unique style and vibrant color displayed throughout the home.

56 The Bend

From the front, you are greeted by a beautifully landscaped yard, and a long concrete walkway, leading to two tall French style doors. Once inside, the illuminated colorful fused glass art piece titled “Paradisius� by Frank Thompson of Lake Charles, Louisiana, gives you a preview of the warm and inviting vibe of their home. To the right of this vibrant art piece, a walkway leads you to the kitchen and dining area, remodeled and decorated to give it that R&R (Robert and Russell) vibe.

The kitchen, a prominent feature in the home, complete with an abundance of cabinet space, granite countertops, and a small window overlooking Lamar Park, is the perfect starting place for a world of entertaining. A section of the kitchen walls were removed to clear a space that opens up towards the living area, to ensure full entertaining as parties are a plenty in this household. Just a few steps away, is the dining area, which contains Robert’s biggest purchase – a large, rustic, hand-distressed, wooden sliding barn door. The door gives the dining area a big boost of style, while complimenting the red and white walls and wall décor.

The house has a large living area, split in two by an opening, allowing for an aesthetically pleasing and inviting space for guests. The dark rustic, hand-scraped hardwood floor, which is found throughout the house, is brought to life in the living area with the contrast of the limestone fireplace, and the mesquite wood mantel handcrafted by Naves Sawmill in Kingsville. Sporadically placed lighting accents add to the comfortable feel of the area. The other half of the living space showcases brown leather and chrome Wassily chairs, complemented by a trio of photos from local artist Sheila Rogers and a vast array of colorful art and accessories.

The appeal of the master bedroom is accentuated by the ample space, enough to fit a king-sized bed along with a seating area. Robert and Russell added to their views of their dream home as they redecorated their master bathroom. What was once a basic walk-in shower, became a walk-in shower with glass “ice-mist” tiles, the bathroom walls were replaced with shiplap wood, and the granite counter top was replaced

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57

with Italian white Carrara marble, making for a picture-perfect master bathroom. The second bedroom is used as a guest bedroom, but no corner was spared in decorating to perfect the rustic country ambience.

Robert and Russell garnered most of their decorating influences by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV’s Fixer Upper. Robert says, “Every episode inspires me to implement some small design element in our home.” Their love for home decorating and renovations is profoundly visible upon entry into their backyard.

Visitors are greeted with an alluring view of a botanical heaven, along with a hot tub in the far corner of the yard. Working in tandem with the garden ambience is a stamped concrete walkway that winds around the lawn, hugging the landscaping as it leads to a small patio area, creatively dubbed as the “secret garden.” With Robert and Russell’s views in mind, the secret garden was designed by Donna and Joe Mazzola with JDM Landscapes, and is the perfect space to relax and unwind after a long day.

The patio area was turned into a gorgeous outdoor room complete with a freestanding pergola, adorned with garden lighting and a patio seating arrangement. It creates the perfect space for an intimate, romantic candlelit dinner, while enjoying the soothing night sky. Connected to the secret garden, is the third bedroom, which was converted to a cozy little nook called the “garden room.” The garden room is the ideal space for relaxing with the doors open while taking in nature’s sights and sounds. The garden room, located in close proximity with the secret garden, is a brilliant creation for Zen space.

Robert and Russell have created the perfect mixture of rustic and soul in order to create the perfect dwelling place. Needless to say, their humble abode is bursting in character and has a soul enriched with color and art.

58 The Bend

| CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 361.882.8885

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

59

HOME & GARDEN / SPACES

Shelfie Ready

Display your china with elegance and style Styling and Words by: JoAnne Howell, Oh Goodie Designs +Events Photos by: Rachel Benavides

D

isplaying family heirlooms and china collections are becoming a lost tradition. Newlyweds are not registering for china as has been so popular in the past.

Collecting one set of dishware is more common these days. Even if that is the case, your collection should be displayed as beautifully as they look set at any tablescape.

My client Cathy, wanted to display her family china that had been tucked away in cupboards and not seen for years. It usually only made its appearance for family dinners and special occasions. I was able to display these items front and center by pulling pieces and sets to coordinate for a full display.

60 The Bend

Stacking plates adds height, as does adding a book or two to your setup. Using books with a color coordinated spine or entertaining theme make for the best props. Glassware looks lovely as well sitting within hands reach, ready for any Cheers!

Luckily, Cathy’s beautiful home has these built in shelves perfect for displaying treasures. I cleared the shelves and brought in the pieces I wanted to make prominent. Keeping collections together makes for a beautiful display and pops of color add interest.

This shelf display tops off the whole room and adds to the beauty of the home as guests can sit and view the treasures.

thebendmag.com

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HOME & GARDEN / GARDENING

The Waggle Dance How bees discover your garden By: Justin Butts Photos: Rachel Benavides

A

well-kept garden requires a vibrant presence of bees to pollinate the plants for maximum yield of fruit, vegetables, and flowers. Bees find your garden through a process called the waggle dance that occurs on the hive.

When a honeybee scout finds a good nectar source of blooming flowers, she returns to the hive to notify the other bees. To communicate the exact location of the nectar source, the scout bee performs the waggle dance. In the waggle dance, the scout bee literally dances across the vertical comb of the hive in a distinct pattern. During the straight line of her dance, called the waggle run, she shakes her tail vigorously to a certain rhythm.

To show direction, the line of the waggle run points toward the nectar source relative to the sun. Bees use the sun to navigate. The waggle dance creates a precise angle between the sun, the hive, and nectar source, for the bees to follow. As the day progresses and the sun moves through the sky, the scout bee changes the angle of her waggle to accommodate the changing position of the sun!

When the bees of the hive are clear on distance and direction, they force the scout bee to stop, so each bee can taste the nectar on her mouth to know which flower they are seeking. The bees fly back and forth from the hive to the nectar source on a straight line, called the bee line. The bees harvest nectar from this source until a new waggle dance points them to a new source of nectar.

At the end of the waggle run, she turns left, circles back to the beginning and repeats the dance. The next time she turns to the right, circles back, and then repeats this fascinating figure eight pattern. The bees of the hive surround her and watch the dance intently.

To attract bees to your garden, plant flowers that bees love, such as nasturtiums, marigolds, Queen Anne’s lace, cosmos, sunflowers, and blue borage. Let some of your basil, dill, and cilantro go to flower—bees love these herbal flowers. Make sure to plant a wide variety of flowers so there is always something blooming to attract bees.

The number of waggles she makes with her tail indicates the precise distance to the nectar source. This communication of distance through waggling is accurate almost to the inch, even when the nectar source is nearly a mile away.

Flowers bring successive waves of color and fragrance to your garden. These flowers may inspire a waggle dance on a beehive near you, pointed directly at your garden.

62 The Bend

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64 The Bend

A variety of upscale shops and dining just a stroll away from the seaside.

OUT & ABOUT ARTS & CULTURE 66 DATEBOOK 68 CELEBRATION 70 SOCIAL HOUR 72

What’s Inside Blogger and food extraordinaire, Vianney Rodriguez, is bringing you the most convenient cookbook you could ever ask for—a guide to slow cooker meals all packed with bold and powerful flavors.

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OUT & ABOUT / ARTS & CULTURE

Pot of

Gold The perfect cookbook that transforms your favorite recipes into slow cooker meals By: Alexis Mays Photos: Jason Page

66 The Bend

I

t's a Sweet Life for Vianney Rodriguez—but it is also savory, spicy, and flavorful. The South Texas native is an award-winning food blogger of “Sweet Life: Cooking, Eating, Living My Sweet Life in Texas,” and the author of ‘Latin Twist,’ a cocktail book.

Vianney is now set to release her second book – and first cookbook – this March. It’s called The Tex-Mex Slow Cooker, and is packed with both old family recipes and new inventions.

Vianney has been cooking her entire life and especially loves Tex-Mex. In this cookbook, she brings her passions to the pages, but also took her skills to the next level. Recipes that are traditionally for stoves and ovens can be made in a brand-new way. “This entire cookbook is completely for the slow cooker,” Vianney explains. “That was the most challenging part; to transform and tweak and develop all the recipes to go in a slow cooker.”

It was designed as a slow cooker cookbook because the appliance is a perfect way to layer on bold southern and southwest flavors. Vianney explains how she and her daughter experimented for hours on end to get the recipes just right, and the results are incredible.

The Tex-Mex Slow Cooker shows you how to make breakfast to dessert, and everything in between.

A few of the 100 dishes you’ll find in this Tex-Mex resource guide includes chile con queso, classic Margarita fajitas, tamale pie, and dulce de leche chocolate cake.

“A few of my favorites are the homemade red and green enchilada sauce—because good, quality enchiladas are so great for parties—and, the concha bread pudding.”

In addition to pages of classic plates and fan favorites, there’s also a section you’ve probably never heard of. “There’s an entire chapter of cocktails made in the slow cooker.” Vianney goes on the explain that tequila, champagne, and vodka are just a few of the liquors in her cocktail recipes.

All recipes are particularly friendly for beginners and need minimal prep time. The Tex-Mex Slow Cooker acts as your guidebook to make amazing meals—and the best part is you don’t even have to be there while it’s cooking.

From homemade salsa to a tamale casserole, the verdict is in: the way to make these dishes, and the taste of the food itself, are both outstanding. But for Vianney, when you’re making these dishes, you’re not just making food.

“Food opens the doors of communication,” she says. “Over a plate of food, you can celebrate joys in life, mourn losses, and overcome tragedy.

At the end of the day, we come together at the table, enjoy a meal, and talk about our day.”

Head to Amazon.com and put in your order for The Tex-Mex Slow Cooker. This cookbook, which is as colorful as it is flavorful, is available this March.

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OUT & ABOUT / DATEBOOK

Mark Your Calendar FEBRUARY DATEBOOK

BENEFIT

2018 Big Shell Beach Clean Up February 24th Come make a difference! Help clean up marine debris from the beautiful and remote Big Shell Beach! The 23rd annual Billy Sandifer Big Shell Cleanup will be held on Saturday, February 24th, 2018. Organized by the Friends of Padre, a local group of anglers and other supporters of the park, this event is a great way to see some of the down-island areas of the park while helping to make a difference.

To participate, meet at 8:00 a.m. at the Malaquite Pavilion parking lot.

Be sure to arrive early!

Padre Island National Seashore, Corpus Christi, Texas 78418

68 The Bend

ARTS

CC Symphony: An Enchanted Evening February 10th Enjoy a spectacular evening of incredible music at the majestic Performing Arts Center. Treat yourself to the symphony and experience the inspiration, joy and excitement of live symphonic music. Purchase tickets by visiting, ccsymphony. org.

6300 Ocean Dr Unit 5723, Corpus Christi, Texas 78412

ARTS

American Advertising Awards February 22nd Mark your calendars for the advertising event of the year! The Corpus Christi Chapter of the American Advertising Federation honors the best of local advertising with its prestigious ADDY award and recognizes the top performers in sales and marketing with the Big Wig Awards.

Subscribe Today!

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VOLUME 4/ISSUE 1

TORY H HIS ROUG RBIRD EL TH AN WA TEX TRAV old THE ON ree Arn By:

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Love Stinks, Let’s Drink!

February 14th Join the Executive Surf Club for their annual Anti-Valentine's Day bash, Love Stinks! With the holiday falling on a Wednesday, they will be hosting their weekly Open Mic Night at 7:00pm to kick things off for the evening. Open Jam will end a bit early to make room for live music (featuring your favorite heartbreak hits) from 8:30pm - close. Single, taken, or just trying to get through the work week.... go have a drink! No cover.

FEBRUARY 2017

ger senbur t at The HeiThe PosPark from Lamar

+ Meet the Men of The Bend + The Tale of Toro de Lidia Tequila

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306 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

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Corpus Christi Songwriters Festival February 16th The Corpus Christi Songwriters is hosting their first ever Annual Corpus Christi Songwriters Festival—featuring national, regionally and locally renowned songwriters during a three-day event, hosting an array of concerts, song swaps, workshops, and other songwriting-related events — kicking off on Friday, Feb. 16 and running through Sunday, Feb. 18. Tickets are available at ccsongwritersfestival.com.

306 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

COMMUNITY

Whooping Crane Festival February 22nd Make plans to attend the 22nd Annual Whooping Crane Festival in Port Aransas, Texas on February 22-25, 2018. This is expected to be a record winter for Whooping Cranes in the Coastal Bend, so, you won’t want to miss this year’s festival!

403 W Cotter Ave, Port Aransas, Texas 78373 thebendmag.com

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OUT & ABOUT / CELEBRATION

Jen & James' Wedding Celebration A romantic, magical evening

A

By: Jo Anne Howell

beautiful and romantic evening at the Corpus Christi Art Center is what we planned for Jen and James.

A family seating design with tables surrounding the dance floor was set with lovely champagne silk linens and Bordeaux silk napkins. Gold chairs with plush cushions set the scene along with over flowing floral centerpieces filled with cabbage roses, peonies, and abundant greenery.

The ceremony took place inside at The Art Center. The wedding party stood in front of a draped wall and a large hoop of floral centered the bride and groom. The flower girls held small hoops of floral and stood daintily in front in their gorgeous gowns.

70 The Bend

Outside at dinner, hand lettered escort cards were displayed in an ombre fashion and water colored menus sat at each seat to inform guests of the food items. As staff served the guests, love and laughter filled the air.

A champagne fountain flowed as cheers were said and the lovely couple cut into the cake. The cake, a naked design, covered in floral, sat upon a hand layered lush velvet table cover.

Dancing into the night was fun and magical as the guests and the happy couple twinkled as the stars filled the night sky.

with the purchase of a Bundtlet

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Custom Designed Jewelry • Diamond Candles Crystals • Geodes • Minerals • Fossils Monogrammed Jewelry • Jewelry Boxes & Cleaners Frames • Baby Gifts and so much more!

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361.991.7054 CASADEOROJEWELERS.COM

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OUT & ABOUT / SOCIAL HOUR

Terry Baiamonte: On the Reef Exhibit Opening Photos by: Rachel Benavides

1. Luis Purรณn, Terry Baiamonte & Eric Heller 2. Genie Mysorski & Diane Johnson 3. Jennifer Day, Becky Mays & Joey Westlake 4. Irma Parker, Anita Diebel & Jean James

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72 The Bend

A NEW SMILE IN

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Dr. Lobaina is proud to offer CEREC® the latest in single visit crown technology.

CEREC® is a breakthrough computerized 3D technology that allows us to create custom, perfectly matched and fitted dental crowns, inlays, and onlays right in the office, all during a single appointment.

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OUT & ABOUT / SOCIAL HOUR

Las DonĂąas de la Corte Holiday Tea 2018 Photos by: Rachel Benavides

1. Alexis Hunter, Betsy

Carrell, Martin Davis, & Sally Wallis 2. Alexis Westerman, Kathy

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Westerman, & Frances Williamson 3. Taylor Gulley & Meghan Mardel 4. Leslie & Peggy Fagan 5. Roselyn Volls, Rachel Beach, Morgan Weeks & Danielle Odes 6. Leah & Avery Cohen

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74 The Bend

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361.288.4224 thebendmag.com

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UNLIKE A N Y OT H E R SHOULD HAPPEN

A DAY

AT A P L AC E U N L I K E A N Y OT H E R.

Bring your dream wedding to life with Omni. From sunset ceremonies with views of the bay to ballroom parties featuring delectable cuisine, the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel is committed to giving you a day nothing short of spectacular. Leave the details to us while you relax and enjoy the perfect destination for your perfect day.

76 The Bend

OMN IH OTEL S .COM/CORP US CH RIS T I 361-887-1600

CUISINE FARM TO TABLE

78

THE DRINK 82 DINING GUIDE 83 THE DISH 88

What’s Inside With breakfast being the most important meal of the day, you should try to never skip it. Breakfast bowls are a quick and easy meal to start your day—plus, they are always pretty to look at.

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CUISINE / FARM TO TABLE

SAVORY BREAKFAST BOWL

Breakfast Should Never Be Boring The perfect breakfast is delicious, healthy, and fits into your schedule By: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Benavides

78 The Bend

ANCIENT GRAINS BREAKFAST BOWL

B

reakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet also

all things citrus. Add natural sources of protein, such as milk, plant-

the meal we are most likely to skip.

based milks, or plain yogurt. Top your bowl with seeds, nuts, and un-

On busy mornings, rushing out the door, breakfast is often the last thing we think of, but the first thing we need

to start our day. A good breakfast supercharges your metabolism and gets your mind right for a busy, productive day. With these convenient and delicious breakfast bowls, you will never need to skip breakfast again!

Breakfast bowls are easy, customizable, and portable. You can make a bowl in just minutes, or even prepare your bowl the night before for an instant breakfast in the morning. These bowls are so good, you may even want one for lunch or an afternoon snack!

Use simple, fresh, healthy ingredients for your bowls. You can even incorporate leftovers from the fridge into these versatile recipes, including overripe fruit and veggies. Let your tastes guide your preparation to keep your bowls interesting and well-suited to your morning mood— sometimes sweet and sometimes spicy.

This smoothie bowl recipe is more formula than recipe. Customize this dish by substituting your favorite fruits and vegetables for those listed.

Use seasonal ingredients, like fresh berries or peaches in the summer,

sweetened coconut to balance the sugars in the fruit. Ancient grains will take your breakfast bowl to a whole new level. Add dried fruit, nuts, and honey to sweeten the bowl. Quinoa, millet, amaranth, farro, Kamut, teff, and other ancient grains offer flavor and texture that processed grains can’t match. Their flavor is nutty, rich, and complex. These hearty carbs also tend to have higher levels of fiber, protein, and minerals. But the true test is in the taste—you will never look at your oatmeal the same way again!

This savory bowl might just be the most exciting part of your morning!

This recipe calls for leftover couscous, sautéed beet greens, sliced watermelon radishes, and a soft-boiled egg. If you like the idea of breakfast tacos, you will love the spicy goodness of this savory bowl, and it is much better for your waistline. You might hesitate when you see greens, sriracha, and radishes for breakfast, but this bowl may become your new standard for the perfect breakfast!

Breakfast bowls have been trending as a convenient and healthy way to enjoy the first meal of the day, although these bowls are great any time of the day. With so many great options and endless combinations, you will have a great start every morning!

and apples and pears in the fall. Winter smoothies are a celebration off

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SMOOTHIE BOWL

80 The Bend

CUISINE / FARM TO TABLE

SMOOTHIE BOWL

SAVORY BREAKFAST BOWL

Serves 1

Serves 2

Prep time: about 5 minutes

Prep time: 5 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

Cook time: 30 minutes

2 cups frozen fruit (banana, berries, peaches, pears, oranges, mango, 1 cup liquid (milk, plant-based milk substitute, plain Greek yogurt, coconut water, water, or ice) 1 tbsp healthy fat (nut butter, coconut oil, avocado, nuts, flaxseed oil, flax seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds)

INGREDIENTS: 1 ½ cups chicken, beef, or vegetable broth (preferably homemade) 3/4 cup quinoa, amaranth, bulgur, farro, millet, tef, or wheat berries ½ tsp salt

Optional: 1 cup vegetables (sweet potatoes, greens, beets, squash, jicama, or celery)

2 eggs, soft-boiled, or 3 ounces leftover grilled or roasted chicken, beef, pork or lamb

Toppings: 1 tbsp of your choice (fresh fruit, dried fruit, granola, seeds, nuts, coconut, raw cocoa nibs, bee pollen)

1 tbsp olive oil

DIRECTIONS:

1 cup greens, rinsed (spinach, kale, arugula, bok choy, swiss chard, turnip greens, beet greens)

Place all ingredients (except for toppings) in a blender. Blend until smooth, scraping down sides as necessary. Top with fresh or dried fruit, seeds, or other options listed.

1 fresh vegetable, thinly sliced (radish, carrot, beets, avocado, turnips, tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, sweet peas, green beans) Optional: 1 tsp hot sauce (red chili sauce, salsa, cayenne pepper sauce) DIRECTIONS:

ANCIENT GRAINS BREAKFAST BOWL Serves 2 Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: about 15-20 minutes INGREDIENTS: 1 ½ cups dry ancient grain cereal (we used a combination of wheat, millet, barley, oats, and buckwheat) 3 cups water Pinch of salt Toppings: local honey, dried fruit, nuts, and seeds DIRECTIONS:

Rinse grains in a colander, removing any that look suspect. In a small pot, heat grains, broth, and salt over medium-high heat until boiling.

Reduce heat to low and stir grains occasionally. Cook for another 20 minutes, or until liquid has been absorbed. If grain is too al dente, add more broth and continue to simmer on low until desired doneness has been achieved.

Drizzle olive oil in a saute pan and place over medium-low heat. Once oil is heated through, add greens and cook until wilted but still vibrant green. In your serving bowl, fluff grains and top with halved eggs or slices of meat, sautéed greens, and thinly sliced vegetable. Drizzle hot sauce on top and finish with a nice sprinkling of sea salt.

A very special thanks to Moonstone’d Pottery for the beautiful pieces in the photos.

Visit @moonstonedpottery on Instagram to see more of her work.

In a medium-sized pot, combine all ingredients except toppings, over medium-high heat. Stirring occasionally, heat to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cover. Cook for another 15-20 minutes, until grains are tender and creamy. Top hot cereal with honey or brown sugar, milk, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, or any desirable combination.

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CUISINE / THE DRINK

Something New

Is Brewing on the South Side A new take on a South Texas classic By: Carlos Cooper Photos: Rachel Benavides

S

usan Garcia recently opened Eclectix Coffee Bar and Bakery, the South Side’s newest destination for coffee, baked goods, and so much more! The South Side of Corpus Christi has been rapidly expanding over the last decade. New neighborhoods, expanded roads, even a new high school that looks like it could be the set for a 21st Century John Hughes-esque teen movie. However, local businesses have had a hard time keeping up with the rapidly expanding area, with only few calling the South Side their home, Susan saw a need in the community and stepped in to fulfill it.

But more than just coffee and baked goods, Susan and Eclectix are putting a fresh new spin on a South Texas favorite: Horchata. Those who call the Coastal Bend home know that Horchata is a staple of the South Texas Taqueria. Rice milk, cinnamon, vanilla—these ingredients may not seem to be a match made in heaven to some, but horchata is a litmus test for any good Mexican Food restaurant.

But Eclectix had other ideas for ways to incorporate this classic into their specialty: coffee.

82 The Bend

By tweaking the recipe a bit, adding a little citrus, and making their horchata dairy-free, Eclectix offers three different horchata and coffee combinations that are sure to please even the most purist of enthusiasts.

First up, the Horchata Latté. Lattés are standard fair for nearly every coffee shop you’ll walk into and consists of steamed milk poured into a shot of espresso. Eclectix’s twist on this classic is replacing the standard whole milk with their signature horchata recipe, providing just the right amount of sweetness without dominating the flavor of the espresso.

During the summer months, when the weather gets especially steamy and it’s a bit too hot for a latté, Eclectix offers the Horchata Frappé, served over ice.

It is a delicious and refreshing combination of cold brew and horchata.

Lastly, for those wanting a little more bite, there is a coffee shooter that features espresso, horchata, and a white chocolate liqueur. In all three cases, the horchata perfectly complements the coffee by making a few minor adjustments to the original recipe, using a hint of lime to bring out some of the more subtle notes in the coffee that wouldn’t jump out as prominently otherwise. You won’t find anywhere else in the Coastal Bend with this unique of a take on a classic Contact 7426 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78413 (361) 400-2956

Dining

Guide Padre Island

Outdoor dining

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

ANDY’S COUNTRY KITCHEN $ You will feel right at home just like eat’n in mom’s kitchen. Great southern comfort food that gets back to the basics! 5802 S Staples St, (361) 993-0251, Andyskitchen. com

ATOMIC OMELETTE & GRILL $

Port Aransas

IRIE’S ISLAND FOOD $

MACDADDY’S FAMILY KITCHEN $$

THE GROOVE $$

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

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

PADRE ISLAND BURGER COMPANY $$

CITRUS BAYFRONT BISTRO $

SURFSIDE SANDWICH SHOPPE $

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

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

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

Burgers, burgers, and burgers!

Build it yourself or choose from their handcrafted menu.

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

THE EXCHANGE $$

Live music

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

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

100 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 8822047, Citrusbistro.com

Rockport

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 $

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) 9490505, surfsidesandwichshoppe. com

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

ASIAN

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

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

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

Corpus Christi

shows through from the dishes to the sushi bar.

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

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

MIKE COTTEN’S BBQ $$

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

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

BREWSTER STREET ICE HOUSE $$ AKA SUSHI $$ Creative and daring rolls that work well together. The authentic Asian cuisine made with the chef’s homemade recipe will be sure to surprise you.

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

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

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

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

EXECUTIVE SURF CLUB $$ The perfect casual family dining spot. All the while supplying the most beer on tap in the city. 309 N Water St, (361) 884-7873, Waterstreetmarketcc.com/executive-surf-club

$ = Under $10 $$ = Mostly $10 - $20 $$$ = $20 and up thebendmag.com

83

Putting you first made us #1.

Making you our #1 priority is what’s made State Farm® #1* in auto insurance. I’m here to listen to your needs and to help life go right.

CALL ME TODAY. *Based on written premium as reported by SNL Financial 2014.

Drew E Becquet, Agent 6019 S Staples Street Corpus Christi, TX 78413 Bus: 361-854-4638 drew@agentdrewb.com Hablamos Español

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company State Farm Indemnity Company Bloomington, IL 1601916

Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra HECTOR GUZMAN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

2017-2018 Moving Music Forward

An Enchanted Evening

FEB 10th Wagner, Stravinsky, Navarro, Ravel

State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas Dallas, TX

2017-2018 SEASON

Symphony Spectacular

Tickets Starting at $21!

MAR 10th Piazzolla, Ravel, Rimsky-Korsakov, and more!

APRIL 21, 2018 PRESENTED BY VALERO ENERGY FOUNDATION

For tickets, call 61.88 .NOTE (668 ) or visit www.ccsymphony.org!

84 The Bend

Thank you to our

SEASON SPONSOR

Co-season Sponsor: Seaman Financial

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

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

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

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

made from scratch.

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

FRENCH

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

BLEU BISTRO $$$

PORT “A” PIZZERIA $$

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

DRAGONFLY $$$

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

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

CAFÉ

ITALIAN

BONNA-PETIT $

AUTHENTIC NEW YORK PIZZA $$

THE BREWERY $$

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PADRE PIZZERIA $

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

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

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

BROOKLYN PIE CO. $

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SEAFOOD

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

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

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) 7494653, Blackmarlinbarandgrill.com

MAMMA MIA’S $$$

DOC’S SEAFOOD AND STEAKS $$

BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL $$$

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

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

MESQUITE ST. PIZZA AND PASTA CO. $$

GLOW $$

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

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

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85

Located in Portland’s Exclusive Northshore Community...

86 The Bend

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

SALTWATER GRILL $$

ISLAND TIME SUSHI BAR & SEAFOOD 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

Stop in for fresh and inventive sushi, seafood, appetizers and desserts! Check out the weekday specials!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

200 E Cotter Ave, (361)749-1540, Rooseveltsatthetarponinn.com

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 $$

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

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

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

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

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

YARDARM $$$ 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

309 N Water St, (361) 881-9448, Waterstreetmarketcc.com

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CUISINE / THE DISH

"IT SEEMED LIKE THE RIGHT TIME TO BRING SOMETHING TO CORPUS THAT MANY RESIDENTS OF OTHER CITIES ALREADY ENJOYED."

Bar Under The Sun

The Coastal Bend has a new favorite stop

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By: Carlos Cooper Photos: Brynn Osborn

s dusk approaches, the Corpus Christi skyline begins to illuminate downtown in the sun’s absence. In what was previously an abandoned building, on a dark street corner, people of all ages have gathered on a patio.

The Bar Under The Sun is bursting with life and vitality, bringing a fresh take on the patio bar concept to the Coastal Bend. Lesley and Ben Lomax saw patio bars were thriving in other cities and wanted to bring the idea to Corpus Christi. What they didn’t expect was the location they would end up choosing to open their bar.

Now inhabiting the old Greyhound Bus Station, the Bar Under The Sun (the acronym B.U.S. is certainly no accident) is quickly becoming a local favorite.

With games like corn-hole, outdoor TVs, an abundance of seating, craft cocktails, and a food truck on site, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy. And while

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the bar is located in the smaller indoor area of B.U.S., the back of the bar features a huge window that allows customers to order drinks from the outside because this new destination loves its customers’ pets just as much as their owners do!

What really sets this new patio bar over the top is the concept behind the food it offers. “The food trucks are key to our concept,” says Lesley Lomax.

“We like the idea of being able to provide food like a bar and grill; but with an exciting variety of food styles that are always changing. We noticed how well food trucks compliment many bars in other cities, and noticed that the Corpus food truck scene was growing, with fun new concepts and quality operators. It seemed like the right time to bring something to Corpus that many residents of other cities already enjoyed.”

Contact 702 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 (361) 462-4121

BAKER & BAKER A T T O R N E Y S

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L A W

W R LA ELDE ICES SERV CE SIN

1980

361.985.2226

GUARDIANSHIPS

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WILLS & PROBATE

MILLER TRUSTS

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ASSET PROTECTION

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MEDICAID QUALIFICATION |

POWERS OF ATTORNEY

5350 S. STAPLES ST. SUITE 203

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BAKERSELDERLAW.COM

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THE BEND / LOOKING BACK

A Park for the People A gift from Corpus Christi’s founder has provided a community space downtown for over 160 years By: Jillian Becquet

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Photo: Community men gather at Artesian Park for a game of dominos in the late 1930s.

hile General Zachary Taylor’s 4,000 men settled for eight months in Corpus Christi, a landmark of their campsite was a sulfur-rich artesian well they drilled adjacent to their camp. Artesian wells have an aquifer pressure so strong they don’t require pumps to function—which was much needed by Taylor’s troops.

Because of his gift, Artesian Park, located at Twigg Street at Chaparral Street, has continued as a community gathering place for the City’s whole existence. Through the years, citizens continued to invest in this space, adding a bandstand, drinking fountains, and pathways, as well as benches and tables for playing games. Archaeology conducted at Artesian Park several years ago shows us a long history of use of this space, including gaming pieces long since left behind.

To mark the importance of this site, Henry Kinney, Corpus Christi’s founder, gave our community an acre of this land as a place to gather in 1854. His gift was one of the earliest gifts by an individual of a park to a Texas city. Kinney wanted us to make use of, and remember the importance of, this historic land to the foundations of our city.

Today, a granite marker and a Texas historical marker remember General Taylor’s occupancy of the land, but we should also remember those generations of Corpus Christians who formed great memories and found community at Artesian Park.

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