March 2018

But First, We Brunch: A GUIDE TO EVERYONE'S FAVORITE MEAL

In Living Color Fitting Your Home to Your Personality

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Exercise – Put Your Heart Into It! Moderate-intensity exercise is important in preventing heart disease and stroke, but how do you know if your exercise is at a “moderate” level?

Perceived exertion – or how hard you think you’re working – can be used for this. Take note of how heavy you’re breathing, how much you’re sweating, and how tired your muscles feel. On a scale of 1-20, a moderate-intensity activity would feel like an 11-14.

Other clues of “moderate-intensity” exercise include: • Breaking a light sweat around 10 minutes into the exercise • Quickened breathing, but you’re not out of breath • Being able to carry on a conversation while performing the activity

Moderate-intensity exercises can include brisk walking, biking, pushing a lawn mower, water aerobics, doubles tennis, gardening, and ballroom dancing, among other activities.

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MARCH 2018 |

Design Issue

CONTENTS 46

84 35 AROUND THE BEND 20 | STYLE & BEAUTY 24 | CURRENTS 26 | TRENDING 28 | GIVING BACK 30 | 5 BEST 32 | PERSON OF INTEREST

HEALTH 52 | BE WELL 54 | MEET THE DOCTOR 56 | MEDICAL MATTERS HOME & GARDEN 60 | OPEN HOUSE 66 | SPACES 68 | GARDENING

OUT & ABOUT 72 | ARTS & CULTURE 74 | DATE BOOK 76 | CELEBRATION 78 | SOCIAL HOUR CUISINE 84 | FARM TO TABLE 90 | THE DRINK 93 | DINING GUIDE 96 | THE DISH HISTORY 98 | 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

NEW ‘Bunny Bundt’ Decorated Cake now available.

with the purchase of a Bundtlet

Corpus Christi 5425 S Padre Island Dr, Suite 167 • Corpus Christi, TX 78411 (361) 980-1000 • NothingBundtCakes.com Expires 4/30/18. Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. Limit one free Bundtlet with the purchase of one Bundtlet per guest. Valid only at the bakery listed. No cash value.

Coupon may not be reproduced, transferred or sold. Internet distribution strictly prohibited.

Must be claimed in bakery during normal business hours. Not valid with any other offer.

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Bakery #: 141

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Ad Size: Publication:

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11

Alexa Alley Jacqueline Gonzalez Alexis Mays Jinky Romero Marina Riker Jillian Becquet Carlos Cooper

PUBLISHER: Jordan Regas ART DIRECTOR: Will Bowling PRODUCTION DIRECTOR: Kaley Regas

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jason Page Gabriel Mancha

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Chris Knapick

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: jordan@thebendmag.com

MANAGING EDITOR: Kylie Kinnett

ADVERTISING: chris@thebendmag.com

ASSOCIATE ART DIRECTOR: Jarred Schuetze

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

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER: Rachel Benavides

SUBSCRIPTIONS: CONTRIBUTORS: Justin & Kayla Butts Jo Anne Howell

THEBENDMAG.COM

Corrections:

REAL ESTATE AND MORTGAGE MADE EADY

The correct name of the company behind the beautiful pet crate from the December Spaces article is Bespoke Crates and Gates by Maricela Sanchez Art. maricelasanchez.com

CONNECT WITH US @

thebendmag.com @thebendmag on Instagram and Twitter #CBLife

On the cover:

VOLUME 5/ISSUE

But First, We

The Coastal Bend’s

zine

Lifestyle Maga

This is not a commitment to lend | Envoy Mortgage, Ltd - NMLS #6666 TX – Envoy Mortgage Ltd. – Tx Mortgage Banker Registration - NMLS #6666; TX Regulated Loan License #42377

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12 The Bend

MARCH 2018

Making Dreams a Reality 7009 S. Staples St. Suite 102B Corpus Christi, TX 78413

MEAL E'S FAVORITE E TO EVERYON Brunch: A GUID

They say home is where the heart is, and for Susan Gonzales, that couldn’t be more true. We were inspired by her and her outlook on interior design. She poured her heart and r soul into cultivating oonalo g CPers lity In FittLiingvYouin r Home to Your the perfect dwelling space for her and her family. When giving us a tour of her home, she elaborated on how your home gives back to you and loves you; and, because of that, you should put the same amount of love into it yourself. Her mixture of colors, textures, and patterns fit together effortlessly and make for a beautiful cover.

3

Office: 361.400.5801 rpruneda@envoymortgage.com www.RachelLoans.com

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MARCH / From The Desk Of

What stuck with you the most while working on the March issue?

Kayla Butts,

Contributing Writer FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

CAMERA STORE Cameras • Lenses • Tripods Lighting • Backdrops • Film Instant Film • Batteries • Rentals Memory Cards • Photo Paper Bags • Straps • Rentals • Used Repair • Cleaning • Classes Lab Services • Photo Printing and Studio Space

BRANDS AVAILABLE

This month’s Farm to Table discusses a topic near and dear to my heart (as it turns out, quite literally): gut bacteria. Although Justin and I realize it’s not the most appetizing subject, we wanted to highlight the importance of eating for gut health because of the demonstrated effect it has on the state of our bodies overall. Plus, we were out of yogurt.

Alexis Mays, Contributing Writer

The Coastal Bend is my home. I’m a born, raised, and proud Corpus Christian. Being able to write for a magazine that sees this amazing area with the same perspective is an honor. Although I look forward to each month’s writings, my favorite part of this issue was meeting people behind several upcoming events. These men and women are creating big happenings for our city, and I loved hearing about their passion for our community!

Carlos Cooper, Contributing Writer

GOOD PEOPLE &

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14 The Bend

Arts & culture are two aspects of our community that are inextricably bound to one another. As a creative person, what inspires me most is other people’s creativity. Getting to talk with Calico Club about their art and creative process, and getting to share that with all of you, was wonderful. It’s not often you see people push themselves to traverse different mediums, push boundaries, and create something truly unique, just because they love what they do.

thebendmag.com

15

MARCH / Letter From The Publisher

Our lives and tastes are always changing and our homes are reflective of who we are and what stage of life we are in. A part of what we do each month is share stories about people and their homes. Loving our home is a major part of loving where we live. Recognizing this, we spent the past two years publishing a special, bi-annual home insert. Since we already dedicate a whole section of each issue to home and gardening, we made the strategic decision this year to help readers feel more at home in the Coastal Bend with every issue, including a heavy emphasis on design and decor around spring and fall.

Feeling at Home

I

f my wife and I are not working on our home, we are hearing stories of friends who are remodeling or moving into their dream homes. These stories are always fascinating. It looks so easy on television, but turning a house into a home takes a lot of work. However, if you read our cover story on page 35, Susan Gonzales shares an interesting thought on how our homes are happy to reciprocate.

Favorite Page

If you haven’t noticed by now, brunch is something we can’t get enough of at The Bend. We wanted to put together a definitive guide to doing brunch in the Coastal Bend. Kylie Kinnett, Managing Editor, did a wonderful job highlighting some of the unique dishes and libations from around the area on page 42. We hope to see everyone at Brunch on the Bay on March 25th, where guests can sample brunch bites from some of the best restaurants in the region.

16 The Bend

Speaking of redesigns, our team creatively thought of offering two separate waves (10:00am and 12:30pm) to better accommodate more guests at this year’s 3rd Annual Brunch on the Bay. We are always looking for ways to make improvements. We know how much work and effort our readers put into their homes and our goal each month is to produce a magazine worth displaying. We are also honored that readers invite us into their magnificent homes to take photos and allow us to share their home journey. By the way, if you happen to know someone with a beautiful home and a great story, we would love to hear from you.

Jordan Regas, Publisher

www.allison-flooring.com

•

361-288-4224

4400 South Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 thebendmag.com

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| CORPUS CHRISTI, TX 361.882.8885

415 N. WATER ST.

Come see how we roll...

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.

18 The Bend

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

What’s Inside Get inspired by the bold colors of the 70s! Color can be intimidating, but there are plenty of ways to incorporate it into your home in a stylish way.

thebendmag.com

19

AROUND THE BEND / STYLE & BEAUTY

SEVENTIES

INSPIRED REVIVE YOUR WALLS WITH A BOLD ACCENT FROM DECADES PAST

RUSTED EARTH 2002 7A

Jarred Schuetze Photo by: Rachel Benavides By:

Using color boldly can be a challenge.

If attempting a bold color, like a daring hue for your walls, consider this.

To make an impact, you don't have to paint an entire room. It’s not uncommon to make a statement by painting a single wall a bold accent tone. It's often an easier way to incorporate rich or intense colors without going over the top or without making a costly mistake. Another way to add a dash of bold color is to try it in a small room. Powder rooms are the perfect place to experiment with bold color choices.

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Experiencing the color in the natural light of a space is very important. Narrow down paint choices to two or three and put them on the wall before ultimately choosing the winner.

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AROUND THE BEND / CURRENTS

CURRENTS By: Jarred Schuetze

Dripping in Jewels

Timeless and elegant, The Bay Jewel proudly sits on the corner of Mesquite and Starr St. This premier event venue is affordable and oh so chic. It boasts a 3,000-sq. ft. ballroom, private suites, large prep-kitchen, wine cellar, cigar humidor, lounge areas and a bar on each floor. With an in-house AV projector, sound system, and portable stage – this venue is not to be underestimated. Learn more at thebayjewel.com.

624 Mesquite St. Corpus Christi, TX

A Double Shot

If there’s one thing we love, it’s collaborations. Local favorite, Bloom CoffeeWorks, has joined forces with Harbor City Coffee Roasters to bring you - Bloom City Coffee Co. We’re so excited to see what the future holds for this business merger. Stay connected and see what’s in store by following @bloomcitycoffee.

More Chicken Please

If the weather and beaches aren’t enough of a reason to be pumped for the summer season, this is. Construction has begun on the Southside of Corpus Christi to make way for a brand-new Chicfil-a restaurant. This will be the fourth Chic-fil-a to inhabit a location in the Coastal Bend. It is set to open in the summer of this year and we’re so stoked. This means less wait time and more mouth-watering waffle fries.

5929 Saratoga Blvd. Corpus Christi, TX

First Shoreline, Now Southside

One of the most beloved downtown sandwich shops is expanding yet again. Shoreline Sandwich Company is officially opening its third location on the Southside of Corpus Christi and we’re thrilled. The eatery will be located on the main floor of the Kleberg Bank Building on S. Staples St. This new location will treat even more locals to gourmet sandwiches, crisp salads, and a fresh take on classic deli treats. Check out their menu by visiting shorelinesandwichco.com.

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24 The Bend

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AROUND THE BEND / TRENDING

Setting the Mood Rich colors. Organic textures. Modern shapes.

Romanticizing a space in your home isn’t as challenging as you think – especially when you shop from trend setting local vendors, Wildflowers and Shell & Pine. Wildflowers brings affordable luxury with their wide range of vintage textiles. Any of their hand-knotted rugs will bring your home the warmth and style it’s been craving. Don’t pass up the chance for mood lighting – a seemingly forgotten staple of romance is the presence of candlelight.

Fortunately, the unique and timeless selection of candlesticks from Shell & Pine will have you head over heels in love.

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AROUND THE BEND / GIVING BACK

Big Brothers Big Sisters was created over 100 years ago, when a Judge in New York noticed the rising number of children with unhealthy lifestyles, struggles, or multiple offenses enter his court. His belief that inherent in each child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life was the driving force for this organization.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Investing in the next generation

T

By: Jacqueline Gonzalez Photos by: Rachel Benavides

oday’s youth face a variety of challenges, and the influence of a caring adult is more likely to deter risky behavior and navigate them toward reaching their fullest potential. As the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers, “bigs,” and children, “littles,” ages 6-18, in communities across the country. The organization’s goal is to take care of the child’s developmental needs at an early age, while empowering the child to succeed. Sofia Pacurar, who heads event planning and fundraising, emphasizes the importance of “having someone caring and providing a reliable presence in their life,” and attributes the success of the organization to the dedication of each mentor.

Board members and volunteers work in tandem with school counselors to select children who will benefit the most from the "bigs and littles" match making. Each group is required to fill out a survey, detailing their likes and dislikes. A case manager, otherwise known as a “match maker” then filters the surveys, after completing a background check on each big, to make the best matches.

Activities vary by many factors, including age groups, likes and dislikes, and parent/guardian approval. Since education is a major driving force, bigs are encouraged to visit their littles at school for lunch, school functions, or just to assist with school work. Other bigs prefer to spend time with their littles outside of school, while engaging in bonding time. The

28 The Bend

bond between each big and little blossoms the more time they spend together. The activities grow as well; one minute you are spending time at local parks, and before you know it, you are helping a young girl find her dream prom dress.

Maria Karaca, a board member, is also a mentor to a young man named Brandon. Brandon lost both parents at an early age, and is currently being raised by his maternal grandmother. Maria says, “it wasn’t until I was a mentor that I knew why making time for your little was so important,” and also states that she cannot imagine her life without Brandon. “He’s a part of our family,” she says. Being a part of the Karaca family has made a great impact on Brandon’s life as well. At only 12 years of age, he already has high aspirations of becoming a lawyer to advocate for children in his situation.

Sofia Pacurar and Maria Karaca advise anyone considering taking on the role of mentor to understand the responsibility that is necessary.

Mentors are only required to give four hours per month (one hour a week) to their little, but they are always welcome to spend more time, pending parent/guardian approval. Pacurar and Karaca urge anyone willing to give their time to a child in need to visit bigmentor.org to sign up to be a mentor. Every moment spent together is special and guaranteed to be a life changing experience for both bigs and littles. It’s not just a donation or time spent; it’s an investment in a child’s future.

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

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29

AROUND THE BEND / 5 BEST

5

Best

Public Pools By: Jacqueline Gonzales

Whether you’re swimming laps, or soaking up the sun, spending a beautiful day poolside is a must!

1. Natatorium: One of Corpus Christi’s most popular and well-known, year-round indoor pools, the Natatorium, continues to deliver excellent aquatic services. The establishment houses pools of different sizes to meet diverse clientele needs, and offers lap swimming as well. Visitors also love the convenience of the low-cost, indoor facility to host summer parties while avoiding the heat. 3202 Cabaniss CC TX 78415 361-826-1728 2. HEB Pool: If you’re considering hosting a pool party for the summer, the HEB pool offers nice, affordable family fun. The facility houses a variety of entertainment, including a large, family sized pool, cabanas, a party concession area, and a splash pad with sprinklers.

The state of the art splash pad is an excellent and safer choice for smaller children and inexperienced swimmers, complete with fun water features to encourage building the confidence of smaller children in the water. 1520 Shely CC TX 78404 361-888-6002

30 The Bend

3. Collier Pool: With a newly renovated facility, Collier pool ensures a successful aquatic family adventure. The heated pool, picnic tables, and barbecue grills secure year-round family fun. The facility’s renovation also includes the addition of locker rooms and showers for the guests’ convenience. Whether you’re there for the beach-inspired entrance, the splash of the giant bucket, or simply to swim laps, Collier pool is a great venue for some family fun. 3801 Harris CC TX 78411 361 – 8261720 4. Portland Aquatic Center: The

Portland Aquatic Center is a great, year-round outdoor facility featuring two pools to ensure plenty of space for family fun. The center also includes a recreation pool, filled with entertainment including a boat slide, palm tree splashers, and a zero-depth entry for small children.

The larger pool includes diving boards and floating play structures for more experienced swimmers. With ample shade, comfortable

lawn furniture, and excellent lifeguards, Portland Aquatic Center provides an exceptional environment for lengthy outdoor lounging.

2002 Billy G. Webb Dr. Portland TX 78374 361777-4637

5.

YMCA of the Coastal Bend:

The YMCA is most popularly known for their state of the art fitness equipment and summer camps. If you are looking for something more relaxing, the YMCA also houses an indoor public pool and offers year-round swimming lessons. The Y provides high quality instruction in a fun and friendly environment, ensuring their clients build a life-long passion for swimming while enjoying the water. With lifeguards always on duty, the pool is a safe place to enjoy a swim. 417 S. Upper Broadway CC TX 78401 361-882-1741

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31

AROUND THE BEND / PERSON OF INTEREST

Alyssa Barrera

MEET

The vibrant, young, and talented new director of the Downtown Management District with an unmatched passion for revitalization By: Alexa Alley Photos by: Jarred Schuetze

WHAT ARE YOU MOST PASSIONATE ABOUT, AND HOW DID THAT LEAD YOU TO THIS NEW JOB? My foremost passion is to

improve our downtown for the benefit of our whole city. This began when I was a child and my parents would tell me stories of downtown’s glory days. While working at the Republic of Texas and attending TAMUCC, there were many evenings working where I’d be asked by guests why there wasn’t “more going on” in such a beautiful setting. I became committed to doing something about it.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ASPECT OF CORPUS CHRISTI? My favorite aspect of Corpus Christi is its history. Our City has come such a long way and much of its history has been written downtown. My great-grandmother was born on Mestina Street in 1906. My grandparents met at a dance at the Nueces Hotel in the 1940s. My parents got their marriage license at the old Nueces County Courthouse. Downtown was the backdrop for their stories and I hope to help create a dynamic downtown the stories of future generations too

WHAT ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT THIS YEAR AT THE DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT DISTRICT? There are so many things

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS FOR YOUR FIRST YEAR AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR? The DMD has a very ambitious Service Plan for

happening downtown this year to be excited about! The DMD is involved in rolling out some fantastic new initiatives, like expanding our Downtown Merchant Association and building an online database of vacant buildings. I am most excited about implementing new ideas to continue the downtown’s revitalization.

A vibrant downtown is expected in 2018, especially when competing with bigger cities for tourists, investment, jobs and talent.

32 The Bend

this year. My primary goal will be to execute this plan, which has over 60 items and includes making downtown clean and safe, improving the public space, and supporting businesses and special events. Another substantial goal for this year will be to engage with our community to convey the importance of downtown’s success in retaining young professionals and serving as the heart of our city.

“I want The Bend readers to know that while there might be big box dealers in the Coastal Bend area, our family owned and operated dealerships offer the same selection, pricing, and services. But one thing you will find at Neessen Automotive, is that over 38 years of business we know how to take care of you [our customers], treat you like family, and go out of our way to make buying or servicing your car a smooth and easy process.

My family and I love the Coastal Bend and everything it has to offer. We love the people of South Texas and we want your business. Give us a chance, you won’t regret it!”

– Phil Neessen

KINGSVILLE, TEXAS

WWW.NEESSENAUTOMOTIVE.COM

361-592-2668 thebendmag.com

33

34 The Bend

VI Color NG HOW SUSAN GONZALES CURATED HER DREAM HOME WITH COLOR, TEXTURE, AND PATTERNS GALORE By: Kylie Kinnett Photos by: Jason Page

thebendmag.com

35

VELVET DETAILS: Green velvet accent chairs provide the perfect pop of color that bounce off their backdrop of charcoal walls. They offset the traditional oversized brass mirror behind them and continue Susan’s theme of mixing styles and eras in the same room.

“We are in separate rooms, but still get to see each other and that is one area of the house where I like to be able to do that,” Susan says.

usan’s home is set in the heart

Susan says, “everything is so modern and open now and I

of the picturesque neighbor-

needed individual rooms.”

hood of Lamar Park. The tra-

36 The Bend

ditional, mid-century modern

Her need for visible boundaries between rooms has a lot to

ranch style home was built in

do with her love for color. If there is one thing each room

1954 and had the perfect mix

in the Gonzales’ home has in common, it is color—and lots

of character, solid bones, and

of it. Susan’s philosophy when it comes to color is to not be

eccentric nuances she and her husband were in search for.

afraid of it. “I love color on so many levels,” she says with

While they made plenty of renovations and updates since

a laugh as she looks around and realizes she has the ability

the original owners, they appreciated the character of the

to point out at least fifteen different hues in her living and

house and knew it was what drew them to the home in the

dining room alone. “With color, you are able to create a

first place. “They don’t make homes like this anymore,”

feeling and evoke an emotion. With each different room,

I have tried to curate a different experience through color,

she executes it perfectly; curating a picture-perfect space.

themes, fabrics, and textures.”

“Don’t be afraid to take chances,” says Susan in regard to her daring home décor choices. “I don’t really have one

There are modern pieces and antique pieces. There are

style, I just put the pieces I love together and it works. I try

clean lines and ornate lines. There are Chinoiserie jars filled

to use my home as a way to show my love for beauty in

with pink roses sitting atop a Mexican embroidered runner,

everyday life—not just in one facet, but in every way.”

and as if that wasn’t enough, gold crane candle sticks grace the center of the table to bring it all together. There are not

Her color philosophy is brought to life in each room in the

many people who would look at these items as individuals

home. The formal living room has a decadent feel. The

and picture them cohesively existing all on the same ta-

richness of the pinks, oranges, and greens vibrantly bounce

ble—but Susan had a vision, and when Susan has a vision,

off of the more muted charcoal colored walls. With gold

Don’t be afraid to take chances

HAND-KNOTTED RUGS: Keeping with the theme of mixing styles and eras, Susan has hand-knotted Persian or Turkish rugs in almost every room in the house.

They add color and texture to the room while having a vintage feel.

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37

MILK GLASS: Milk glass is relatively inexpensive and has made a big return in the interior design world due to their clean lines and neutral colors.

Most of Susan’s milk glass was found from various antique stores in town such as Betty’s Trash to Treasures and Red Crow Antiques.

38 The Bend

FRESH FLORAL: Having fresh flowers in your house is an instant way to enhance any room. Susan believes interior design is four-dimensional.

Incorporating flowers into a space not only adds a fresh feeling, but also brings in the element of scent!

accents and plenty of textures, the room makes

band sits in the living room. “We are in separate

you feel as though you must take your shoes

rooms, but still get to see each other and that is

off before entering and carefully place yourself

one area of the house where I like to be able to

on the couch just right. Moving into the dining

do that,” Susan says.

room, a bold emerald green splashes the walls and takes you to an entirely different place. Chi-

All three bedrooms in the house follow Susan’s

noiserie pieces and gold candle sticks line the

color theory closely as well. Both of her daugh-

extended dark wood table to create a mood of a

ter’s bedrooms are filled with vibrant colors that

lavish dining experience that makes you crave a

relay a playful and fun vibe, while the master

good glass of pinot and some type of expensive

bedroom has various shades of plum and blush

cheese.

which come together to create a warm and cozy atmosphere.

Stepping into the kitchen and family living room area, a more open concept is set into play

While Susan might not have one particular style

(this is also one of the only areas of the home in

throughout the entirety of her home, there is no

which you will find the color white). However,

shortage of juxtaposing themes and elements

the white was very much so a conscious choice

that come together perfectly in order to create

on Susan’s part. White suggests the feeling of

her family’s ideal dwelling place.

Your home should be reflective of you, it should make you feel loved.

When I walk into my home, I know it loves me. You have to make time for your home.

cleanliness and airiness. By knocking down a wall that once separated these two rooms, Susan

Regardless of which room of the Gonzales’

is able to prepare food in the kitchen while her

home you are in, there is one common thread.

kids start their homework at the bar and her hus-

There is thought and care placed into every wall

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39

color, every throw pillow, every light fixture. While this can be credited to Susan’s second-nature of fine tuning details, it can also be attributed to how she views a home in the first place.

“Your home should be reflective of you, it should make you feel loved,” Susan explains as she takes one final look around the house on our tour. “When I walk into my home, I know it loves me.

You have to make time for your home, because if you do that, if you put time and love and care into your home, it will give all of that back to you.”

40 The Bend

LIVING ROOM ART: It is no secret that Susan loves art. This piece in particular is one of her favorites.

Titled “Everyone Was There” by Franco Mondini-Ruiz, the contrast of a matte black background against the ornate gold frame adds a certain sense of elegance to the room.

Susan purchased the painting from the Art Center of Corpus Christi.

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41

But First, We

Brunch

Good

By: Kylie Kinnett Photos by: Rachel Benavides

42 The Bend

Brunch and Booze: A Match Made in Heaven

T

here is no arguing, brunch is the best meal of the day. It’s a little comical how a meal can become a fad, but there is no doubt brunch has been one of the trendiest food-related phenomenon to partake in over the last couple of years. If you are looking to have a fancy outing with your friends or simply just didn’t wake up in time for breakfast, there are plenty of places in town to get your brunch fix in. There is power in a perfect brunch, and we are here to provide you with one. Here is our list of the top 10 places to brunch properly in the Coastal Bend and the menu item you should order when you get there.

THE POST BREAKFAST PIZZA Forget about pizza for dinner—it’s taking over the brunch scene nowadays. The Breakfast Pizza at The Post comes on a grilled flat bread, with feta aioli, parmesan cheese, crispy prosciutto, baby arugula, and a fried egg, all topped with serrano honey. Is your mouth watering yet? Whether you sit inside or outside, there is a table (and a cocktail) with your name on it.

BRUNCH HOURS

Sundays 10 AM – 4 PM 411 Doddridge st #102 (361) 452-0907 thepostlamarpark.com

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WATER STREET OYSTER BAR PAIN PERDUE We know what you’re thinking…why pick a sweet brunch item from a place that serves up a mean savory dish. But, you are not going to want to miss this french toast. House-made to perfection, the Pain Perdue is made with sourdough bread, and served with griddled Canadian bacon and maple syrup. Each menu item is served with fresh fruit or hash browns and their bloody mary is no joke.

BRUNCH HOURS

Sunday 11 AM – 2 PM 309 N. Water St, (361) 881-9448, waterstmarketcc.com

SUGARBAKERS LOX AND BAGEL PLATE We couldn’t have a brunch list and not include a lox and bagel entrée—it just wouldn’t be right. Look no further than Sugarbakers for a delicious all-time brunch favorite. The meal comes with smoked salmon on your choice of a plain or everything (obvious choice) bagel with cream cheese, sliced tomatoes, cucumber, red onions, and capers, with a cup of fresh fruit. Pro tip: order a side of their potatoes O’Brian regardless of what meal you decide on.

BRUNCH HOURS

Saturday 9 AM – 3 PM 2766 Sante Fe St., (361) 884-9541 sugarbakers.com

THE EXCHANGE: CRAB CAKE EGGS BENEDICT

If you are looking for Sunday brunch on the Island, look no further than Black Sheep Bistro. Bottomless mimosas should be a reason alone for you to make this your brunch destination, but their food is just as amazing. Try the Fried Boneless Pork Chop served with a sunny side up egg, red eye gravy, and garlic potato pearls.

BRUNCH HOURS

Sunday 11 AM – 2 PM 15201 SPID Ste. 120, (361) 949-4819 blacksheepbistro.net 44 The Bend

HOURS

6:30 AM – 2 PM 900 N. Shoreline Blvd.

(361) 886-3510 omnihotels.com

(HANGOVER CURE)

SHORELINE SANDWICH CO THE ARTISAN SANDWICH

FRIED BONELESS PORK CHOPS

What could possibly be better than brunch itself? Well, the answer to that is quite simple—a breakfast buffet! For $19, you can partake in unlimited fresh fruits, yogurts, cereal, a bread and butter bar featuring oven-baked fresh breads and bakery selections, farm fresh eggs and omelets cooked to order, Applewood smoked bacon, sausage, breakfast potatoes…we could keep going, but there is no way you aren’t sold yet.

BREAKFAST FLAT

BRUNCH HOURS

BLACK SHEEP BISTRO

ART OF BREAKFAST BUFFET

TANNIN’S WINE BAR & TAPAS

The Exchange’s resident omelet king, Logan, is whipping up an eggs benedict you won’t ever forget. This delicious brunch entrée is jammed packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with any of their brunch cocktails.

Sundays 10 AM – 3 PM 224 N Mesquite St., (361) 414-9788 theexchangecc.com

THE GLASS PAVILION AT THE OMNI HOTEL

Although they technically don’t have a Sunday brunch, we couldn’t leave them off this list. Anyone who is aware of Shoreline Sandwich Co. is aware of their scrumptious breakfast menu. The Artisan Sandwich (an award-winning sandwich might we add) is a delicious combination of a fried egg, spinach, cheddar cheese, and their homemade tomato jam all packed between two slices of toasted wheat bread.

BREAKFAST HOURS

Monday – Friday 8 – 11 AM 600 Leopard St. Ste. 106, (361) 883-1699 shorelinesandwhichco.com

The people talked, and Tannin’s listened.

Brunch is officially served at your favorite wine bar and there is no shortage of good food to eat. This particular menu item might help those who are using brunch as a way to get over Saturday night’s activities. The Breakfast Flat comes with kale pesto, roasted tomato sauce, chorizo sausage, and poivron peppers.

Even if you don’t go for the food (which you should), you will also find bottomless mimosas.

BRUNCH HOURS

Sunday 11 AM – 2 PM 3855 S Alameda St. (361) 334-3893 tanninswinebar.com

BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR: THAI TEA FRENCH TOAST Chef Ben takes pride in the authentic eats she whips up in the kitchen. Their Sunday brunch menu is no different. The motto is East meets West and they sure do deliver. Their Thai Tea French Toast comes complete with a french baguette soaked in Thai tea, topped with powdered sugar and sweet condensed milk and a side of candied bacon and fresh fruit.

BRUNCH HOURS

Sundays 10 AM – 3 PM 3850 S Alameda, Ste. 27 (361) 334-0857 bkkthaikitchenbar.com

HESTER’S CAFÉ THE CORPUSBORG OMELET Hester’s Café is known for many things—their fresh baked goods, their awesome coffee, those potato chips…just to name a few. However, you most certainly should not overlook their brunch menu items. Take the Corpusborg for example. An omelet stuffed with roasted chicken, onions, green chiles, tomato, pepper jack cheese, topped with avocado and salsa. With three locations to choose from, there is no excuse to not brunch with Hester’s.

BRUNCH HOURS

Saturdays 10 AM – 3 PM 1714 S Alameda St.; 1902 N Shoreline Blvd.; 3850 S Alameda St. hesterscafe.com

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45

Brunch Libations Let’s all be honest with one another. Although everyone loves a good pancake on a Sunday morning, the real reason we are all brunching it up is to have an acceptable excuse to drink at 11 AM. What is it about brunch specific libations that make us feel so fancy and fun? Maybe it is because breakfast staples such as bacon and toast turn into garnishes. Perhaps it is because champagne just tastes better in the morning. Whatever the reason is, we scoped out the best brunch cocktails in town!

BREAKFAST MARTINI FROM THE POST:

You’ve probably never seen a martini glass finished with a slice of toast, but at The Post, that is exactly what you will get when ordering a Breakfast Martini.

This concoction is made from Bombay Sapphire, lemon juice, Cointreau, and light marmalade.

46 The Bend

GRAND SLAM SHOTS FROM VINO MIO SOCIAL CLUB:

Looking for the perfect wake-meup? This will do the trick. Crown Maple and orange juice with a slice of bacon is the way Vino Mio gets down with brunch.

TIA PEPITA FROM BUS:

Sunday Funday is taken to a whole new level over at BUS. While they have mimosa specials galore, this cantaloupe cocktail with tequila and lime is making us lose our minds!

WHITE TIGER FROM BKK THAI KITCHEN + BAR:

BKK brought the idea for this drink back from one of their travels and it is a huge hit. This cocktail mixes lemongrass vodka, coconut, lime, and orange bitters and is garnished with an edible orchid.

PATTERSON’S BLOODY MARY FROM THE POST: A brunch cocktail is only as good as it’s garnishes and this bloody mary is no exception. 16 oz-vodka and house-made bloody mary mix are perfectly topped with a bacon skewer, cocktail onions, olives, and a celery stick.

DOWNTOWN CORPUS CHRISTI BarUndertheSun.com (361)462-4121 702 N. Chaparral St.

Follow Us: @barunderthesuncorpus thebendmag.com

47

ANNUA

PRESENTED BY

L

3

RD

Sample the best of brunch from around the Coastal Bend in a fun, family friendly way.

WHERE & WHEN

SUNDAY, MARCH 25

ART CENTER OF COPRUS CHRISTI

1 0: 00A M

2:30P M

SPONSORS

FEATURING

BKK Thai Kitchen + Bar • Black Sheep Bistro • BUS - Bar Under the Sun Coffee Waves • Eleanor’s Coffee Bar + Market • Greenlight Coffee Hamlin Bakery • Hester’s Cafe • Omni Bayfront Corpus Christi The Post at Lamar Park • Shoreline Sandwich Co. • Sugarbaker’s Bistro For more information or to purchase tickets, go online to thebendmag.com

HOMES &WORK

S PAC E S T H AT N U R T U R E

Y

our environment should nurture you. Interior designers have a responsibility to understand what is most important in your living/ working environment before presenting their ideas. The design process begins by asking how you live. Be prepared to give honest answers. Lifestyle preferences affect choices about the use of space, furniture and materials, and environmental considerations, like lighting and color.

Prior to hiring an interior designer, it is important for you to consider your lifestyle. Good design begins with consideration of the total environment, taking into account the style of the building, the lifestyle of the inhabitants, the functions of each space and the landscaping. The budget is also a key component that affects the design decisions. A good interior designer will assist you in creating a master plan and develop a strategy for implementation. The designer can also represent your vision when problems arise that might interfere with the original plans and need to be worked out with the contractor.

Designers begin by asking a lot of questions: • How do you want the spaces to function, look, and feel?

• Do you have children? How many?

What ages?

• Do you have pets? How many? What kind?

• Do you entertain? Formally or informally?

• Do you hire a caterer?

• Is anyone in the family physically challenged? In what way?

• What colors do you like and not like?

Are you a collector?

• What is the timeline for completion?

• What is the budget?

Once the scope of the work is determined, the designer begins working on space allocations, furniture plans, and lighting plans. The details in the planning phase are crucial. Good attention to detail makes the difference between a nice interior and an extraordinary environment. It all takes time to plan and implement, but the rewards of the end result last a lifetime!

Come see our temporary retail space in Taylor Center!

Hurricane Harvey can’t keep us down!

Designing carved glass barn doors to separate one room from another with artwork rather than a solid barrier and allow light into a room. (pictured on the left) An interior designer creates an environment to live in and work in that makes you comfortable, happy and productive. The Castor Collection team of designers is educated, trained, and experienced. Most of the designers have been creating fabulous interiors in South Texas for thirty to forty years!

Creating custom designed furniture to house the television, stereo, cable box or blue ray player, plus collections, files, books, etc. (pictured at top) Creating a desk that hides the cabling and wiring in the legs for easy access in a wheel chair. (pictured on the right)

www.castorcollection.com

36 1 . 8 5 1 . 8 052

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49

Vampire Facelift only $1500 Our Board Certified Dermatology Physician Assistant is the only provider within 100 miles who is Certified and personally trained by the inventor of the Vampire facelift, Dr. Runels. When it comes to your face make sure you only trust a Board Certified Medical provider with Dermatology or Plastics experience.

Angelica Jackson MPAS PA-C

361-425-2637 1752 Santa Fe St. Corpus Christi, Tx halcyonmedspa.com

The Vampire facelift uses your own blood products and hyaluronic acid. PA Jackson will do a simple blood draw and isolate growth factors (Platelet Rich Plasma aka PRP) from the patient’s own blood which only takes 10 minutes. When these growth factors are injected into the face the multi-potent stem cells activate to grow new tissue. This new collagen, fatty tissue and blood vessels will then be seen as bright, smooth and youthful skin.

Come see us to get your glam back just in time for the holiday parties! *Mention this add to get see how you can get free Botox!

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HEALTH BE WELL 52 MEET THE DOCTOR

54

MEDICAL MATTERS 56

What’s Inside Fellowship Trained and Board Certified in Sports Medicine, Scott M. Easley, specializes in many things. However, his main goal is to help people get healthy and back to doing what they love.

thebendmag.com

51

HEALTH / BE WELL

Unplug and Unwind Bringing mental and spiritual health to the forefront By: Marina Riker Photos by: Rachel Benavides

I

t’s easy to get overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With information constantly bombarding you through your smartphone, managing crazy schedules at work, and a family or social life to tend to, things can get a little hectic.

Sometimes, life can be so busy that spiritual and emotional health get put on the back burner. But one Corpus Christi non-profit is hoping to give people some relief from hectic daily life.

“I think it gives them the opportunity to get away for a while, to think about how things are going,” said Sister Martha Ann Snapka, who works for the Spirit Center.

52 The Bend

The Spirit Center aims to help both adults and children unplug and reconnect with nature and spirituality. While retreats for adults and day trips are also encouraged, the center focuses on creating a space for the youth of South Texas to grow spiritually and socially with the help of educational and social programs.

About a 30-minute drive northwest from Corpus Christi, the Spirit Center serves a place where parishes, organizations, and schools can hold day or weekend-long retreats.

While the center is affiliated with Christianity, all faiths are welcome for a chance to relax and reconnect with their spirituality.

Upon arrival, visitors are asked to put away cellphones and watches to truly unplug from the busy world around them.

Nature and walking trails wind through the property, which is also home to a mediation garden, labyrinth, outdoor Stations of the Cross and volleyball courts.

“There’s a lot of places they can be outside, and just be in quiet,” said Snapka.

Visitors to the center can also use the property’s activity center for meetings and presentations, while overnight guests can stay in the Spirit Center’s 96 bunk beds. The center is

FAMILY DENTISTRY COSMETIC DENTISTRY LASER DENTISTRY

240 Reliant Dr., Portland, TX 78374 duncandentalstudio.com 361.643.3030 primarily designed for youth trips, but can accommodate up to 200 people during day trips.

“It is so exciting to have a place close to home where young people can have experiences to deepen their relationships with God and others,” said Snapka.

Snapka, who has been involved with the Spirit Center for nearly two decades, said she and her other sisters recognized in the early 2000s there was a need for a space where youth and adults could focus on spiritual and emotional health. And, especially for people living in the heart of Corpus Christi, there were few places where groups of people could go to spend time in the serenity of nature.

Decades have passed since then as the center continues to grow. In the years to come, they only hope to be able to provide to expand their place of learning and serve South Texas youth.

“The opportunity to grow spiritually, socially, and educationally are many and are enhanced by one’s creativity,” said Snapka.

Want a fresh new look for spring? Call your local, neighborhood experts!

Save Up to 15% 361.808.7400

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

thebendmag.com

53

HEALTH / MEET THE DOCTOR

Specialty: Arthritis and Joint Inflammation Sports Related Injuries Sprains, Strains, Fracture Care and Management Acute, Chronic & Overuse Injuries Ligament & Muscle Injuries and Tears

Back in the Game

Lower Back Pain Interventional Treatment and Injections Concussion Evaluation & Management

By: Jordan Regas Photo: Rachel Benavides

Scott M. Easley, M.D., Fellowship Trained and Board Certified in Sports Medicine, brings a drive and passion for helping people return to doing what they love around the Coastal Bend.

I

t’s a puzzle you have to put together,” says Scott M. Easley, M.D. about Sports Medicine. He values spending the amount of time necessary with each patient to diagnosis them accurately. Most of his patients have already seen their primary doctor yet questions and concerns remain regarding their pain and treatment.

Dr. Easley completed his fellowship training at John Peter Smith in Arlington, Texas and attended American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine and Oklahoma State University. His special training in Sports Medicine allows him to examine patients with more detail. He takes the physical examine very seriously and is personally invested in hearing what people have to say.

After medical school, Dr. Easley developed a passion for Sports Medicine during a short stint as a Personal Trainer prior to his residency. He has always been a fan of sports and athletics. He participated in basketball, tennis, and martial arts in his high school years. Most of his patients are not athletes; however, they want to get their quality of life back, be it gardening, going on walks, or playing sports on the weekends.

54 The Bend

Dr. Easley has training in procedural injections including ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance. His goal is to prevent patients from having surgery by taking conservative measures. He is grateful to be a part of a group like South Texas Bone and Joint that easily allows him to refer his patients to the orthopedic surgeons should the need for surgery arises.

Dr. Easley thoroughly enjoys living in the Coastal Bend as it reminds him of the time he spent in the Caribbean. He is happy to call this wonderful community his new home. His background includes thrilling experiences as a team Physician for Texas Christian University and Ring Side Physician for Golden Gloves Boxing and Mixed Martial Arts, but what brings him the most joy is the look on his patient’s face when they are pain free. “That is really where the gratification comes from, you get to help people every day,” says Dr. Easley.

Contact 114 Lang Road, Portland, Texas (361) 854-0811, SouthTexasBoneAndJoint.com

WHILE TOM WAS COMPETING IN HIS THIRD TRIATHLON, HE COULDN’T SEE THE PROBLEM IN HIS KNEE. WE CAN.

For over 70 years Radiology Associates has offered the highest quality services to patients and physicians in the Coastal Bend. With 5 locations, extended hours- including late and Saturday appointments, excellent customer service, next/same day patient results, and the latest technology (including but not limited to, 3T MRI, 3D mammography, low dose CT Scan, PET/CT with “time of flight”), it’s no wonder the Coastal Bend has voted Radiology Associates the Best of the Best! Talk to your doctor about us and come experience the difference for yourself.

Choosing the right imaging company matters.

Choose Radiology Associates. It’s your choice.

xraydocs.com | 361-887-7000 thebendmag.com

55

HEALTH / MEDICAL MATTERS

BETTER SIGHT IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE Learn how as little as 1.4 seconds can drastically improve your eyesight

surgery, with glasses.” And one day after the procedure, many are returning to normal.

By: Alexis Mays

Another common ailment his practice works to correct are cataracts. Cataracts are a degenerative disease that can gradually decrease vision. Its main symptom is blurry vision, which makes many feeling as if they are looking through a foggy lens.

M

any diseases and conditions can deteriorate eyesight.

Thankfully, there are also many procedures that can fix it.

Dr. Jacob Moore is an ophthalmologist physician at Coastal Bend Eye Center, a practice with locations in Corpus Christi, Beeville, Kingsville, and Alice. Using everything from testing to procedures, they improve the sight of thousands of Coastal Bend residents.

“We specialize in taking care of people who have diseases of the eye and those who need medical or surgical treatment for eye problems,” Dr. Moore explains.

One popular procedure is LASIK surgery, a refractive surgery that uses a laser to help correct common vision problems such as near and farsightedness. For many, LASIK surgery is an ideal approach to restore eyesight. Something that makes it particularly appealing is how quickly it begins to work.

“The results are instantaneous,” says Dr. Moore. Minus the prep time, the laser does its work in approximately 1.4 seconds.

The laser is something these skilled physicians are excited to use. As Dr. Moore is proud to tell patients, “we continue to invest in the technology.” In fact, they are the only group in the area with this state-of-the-art machine.

When asked how much LASIK helps people, Dr. Moore answers, “many see better after the surgery and without glasses, than they did before the

56 The Bend

The way this is fixed is nothing short of incredible. “We use ultrasound to dissolve the cataract, which is like a laser with soundwaves, and the cloudy lens comes out,” Dr. Moore describes, “and a new, clear acrylic lens goes inside the eye.”

While this team of doctors can care for many conditions, there’s no doubt preventing a disease is always preferred to treating a disease.

In addition to proactive testing and annual eye exams, Dr. Moore offers many tips he encourages everyone to follow.

“Maintaining cardiovascular health, keeping moving and maintaining a healthy weight, taking care of blood pressure and diabetes, staying away from smoke and secondhand smoke,” Dr. Moore lists, “are all key things to living a long and healthy life and also make sure we have good vision, especially later in life.”

While it may come as a surprise that eye health is actually a headto-toe endeavor, what it does is help stave off many conditions that affect eye health, such as diabetes and obesity.

Dr. Moore loves when he is able to help patients by equipping them with the tools for good sight or stopping a condition in its tracks.

If eyes are windows to the soul, it’s Dr. Moore’s passion for giving patients outstanding outcomes that makes him part of the heart and soul of eye health in South Texas.

For more information on our Mommy Makeover, call or visit our website

Ready for Summer?

Summer Time is around the corner and people are preparing for it already! The three most common “Get Ready for Summer” procedures are - the Mommy Makeover, Gynecomastia Surgery and Laser Hair Removal.

The Mommy Makeover The Mommy Makeover typically includes a breast lift and/or implants depending on the desires of the patient along with a tummy tuck and liposuction/liposculpting as well. Two weeks following surgery, most activity is back to normal and six weeks after surgery all activity can typically be resumed.

Gynecomastia Surgery Gynecomastia is a condition where males develop breast tissue and unfortunately, very often, the only way it can be removed/addressed is surgically. This is a fairly short surgery with a short recovery time. Typically full recovery is completed after two weeks. This can also be combined with muscle liposculpting for men.

Laser Hair Removal Laser Hair Removal is a very popular procedure for the summertime. It takes several sessions before all thehair growth has been “lasered away” so starting now is the most beneficial. Our licensed Aesthetician Ashley Wendt provides free skin care (including laser hair removal) consultations.

It is very important to make sure your surgeon is well trained, has completed his/her residency successfully For more and is board certified. In plastic surgery, a membership in the American Board of Plastic Surgery confirms information that your surgeon has successfully completed residency, passed their board exams, and follows the high ethical on our Mommy and professional standards set by the organization. Not everyone is board certified. It is also important to make Makeover, call or sure that you have a good rapport with your plastic surgeon and his/her office staff. visit our website

Dr. Vijay Bindingnavele, a board certified plastic surgeon and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the staff at The Corpus Christi Institute of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, put the patient first and strive to provide the best care with the highest standards using the latest proven technologies at the best value.

Dr. VJ, as he is known by many of his patients, has been performing these procedures in Corpus Christi for the past ten years. Ashley Wendt, a licensed Medical Aesthetician, has been practicing for the past decade

Microdermabrasion • Hydro-Infusion Therapy • Laser Genesis Laser Vein Therapy • Photorejuvenation • Laser Hair Removal Dermaplaning • Micro Needling • Peels

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58 The Bend

Start With Trust

HOME & GARDEN OPEN HOUSE 60 SPACES 66 GARDENING 68

What’s Inside Rhonda Bosquez and Judy Buchanan, interior designers from the Susan Castor Collection, helped these Rockport residents create a home that was both accessible and coastal chic.

thebendmag.com

59

& GARDEN OPEN HOUSE HOMEHOME & GARDEN / OPEN/ HOUSE

A ROCKPORT HOME WITH COASTAL ELEGANCE By: Alexis Mays Photos by: Jason Page

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

60 The Bend

C

oastal, not beachy was the first direction given to the interior designers for what would become a stunning, three-story Rockport home. Just like an HGTV remodeling and redecorating show, a couple allowed interior designers to take the reins of their home project to create a masterpiece.

Rhonda Bosquez, ASID and Judy Buchanan, IDS, are interior designers from the Susan Castor Collection who led a complete rebuild and remodel for the Rockport couple. It started from before the ground up, with demolishing their previous residence and then redesigning and rebuilding a new one from the foundation up. Rhonda and Judy worked closely with the architect, Smith Nguyen, on the construction, and with the homeowners on the furniture layout and the design of the interiors.

Starting with space planning, they laid out the rooms, electrical system, and furniture positions to create exactly what the owners needed. This included an open concept to make all rooms easily accessible for the homeowner’s walker. Furniture was also specially made for this purpose. The inside dining table and the balcony dining table were built with specific dimensions and clearances in mind. In fact, much of the furniture was custom designed by Rhonda and Judy and were locally fabricated. thebendmag.com

61

The result, brought to fruition by Connor Brown of Al Johnson Builders, is a 5,000+ sq. ft. dream home that has coastal and industrial elements, geodes and shells, with a soft blue and sand color palette throughout the space that residents and guests find restful and welcoming.

Stepping inside the home, the foyer’s pair of sea glass chandeliers give hints of the seaside just outside the dwelling. The custom pattern and locally fabricated, sand blasted glass barn doors lead to the first floor that contains the family’s game room and guest bedrooms, as well as a functioning summer kitchen. The view out to the pool and hot tub beckons one to enjoy the breezes and the water.

The upstairs is accessed by the stairway, with its contemporary metal railing, or via the elevator. The elevator’s focal point is a backlit acrylic panel printed with a mesmerizing blue geode pattern. Even the elevator shaft is designed to have art mounted on the walls between floors that can be viewed through the clear, inner door.

The second floor is a large open concept living area that flows into the dining space and kitchen. The fusion granite in the kitchen and wet bar compliment the other four varieties of granite found throughout the home.

This floor overlooks water, and for a better look at the view, there is a patio that is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the South Texas sun.

62 The Bend

The office, next to the living area, is accented with the husband’s favorite activities. His love of fishing was captured in custom designed shadow boxes of hand tied flies and the various fishing reels used as bookends.

Even the barn door’s rollers are modeled after fishing reels. The office desk, a hand-made piece, has slanted legs to allow for easy access.

The Powder Room is the epitome of a ‘wow’ factor. The black wallpaper with multi colored fish, which is made in London, compliments the floor-to-ceiling glass tile and the custom designed and built vanity. Accenting the vanity is custom designed Citrine geode knobs that repeat the colors in the fish along with the tones of the tile.

Beside this is a wine room, which has its own air conditioning unit to maintain the ideal temperature and humidity. The cabinet in this room is topped with fossil-laced granite and sits in front of a wall made from recycled wine barrels.

The crown jewel, and the wife’s favorite room, is the master bedroom.

The calming and serene blue tones in the room are felt as much as they are seen. From subtle accents to a majestic entertainment center, this room in particular is a definition of coastal elegance.

For its residents, there is no doubt the splendid home fulfills their needs and dreams. As they say, “We are so pleased with everything that we love to show it off to our friends.”

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64 The Bend

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65

HOME & GARDEN / SPACES

Clutter Be Gone

Getting organized can be easy if you think outside the box Styling and Words by: JoAnne Howell, Oh Goodie Designs +Events Photos by: Rachel Benavides

An organized kitchen makes for easy entertaining! Using simple tips and tricks will help make your organization an easy task and make your kitchen more functional.

Pantry party!

Start by grouping and organizing foods like snacks, canned goods, dry ingredients and meal preparation. Section off space in your pantry in their own areas. Store snacks in clear organizer containers.

This will make for a clean and neat look and you’re your snacks together and handy. Place boxes and containers facing forward to create an easier view.

Get sauced!

Stacking coffee cups with their saucer plates makes for easy reach and ready to entertain. It also allows for more space on the shelf.

66 The Bend

Stack it!

Stacking short glassware goes to new heights when you place a tray between each level. This allows for more glasses to stack! Also, when stacking glassware, always stack up and down making more room as well.

Take a stand!

Style your easy to reach dish and hand soap on a pretty cake stand or decorative saucer. This adds interest to the counter while making things pretty all at the same time. Plus, it doesn’t hurt to contain the drips either.

Coffee on the go!

Rethink ways to use organizers. Magazine racks can be turned into foam cup holder for your coffee station.

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HOME & GARDEN / GARDENING

Get to Know Your Squash Grow squash in your garden for every flavor and every season By: Justin Butts Photos: Rachel Benavides

S

quash are easy and fun to grow. Even beginning gardeners, with little preparation, can grow a bountiful harvest on their first try. Plus, once you taste your own freshly-picked squash, you will fall in love with the flavor and never turn back!

SUMMER SQUASH VS WINTER SQUASH There are several differences between summer and winter squash.

Summer squash have thin, edible skins with seeds distributed throughout the flesh. Summer squash do not store well and should be eaten as soon as they ripen. Examples of summer squash are zucchini and yellow crook-neck.

Winter squash have thicker, tougher skins. Butternut and acorn

68 The Bend

squash are good examples. The seeds are concentrated in hollow cavities in the center of the vegetable. The tougher skins allow winter squash to be stored for months, or even years, in a cool, dry place.

All squash plants will die in a frost or freeze. In olden days, the winter squash harvest was kept in root cellars and eaten late into the winter, which is why they are called “winter” squash. Grow your winter squash in spring and summer here in the Coastal Bend, then store them in a closet or under a bed to use throughout fall and winter.

PLANT SQUASH IN ROWS OR MOUNDS You can plant squash in traditional garden rows (24” to 36” apart)

Delicata, a winter squash

Caserta, a summer squash

Zucchino Rampacante, a summer squash

Blue Hokkaido, a winter squash

or in small mounds roughly four to five feet apart. Rows are good for bushy summer squash while mounds work well for vining winter squash, where the thick lush vines can grow up to eighteen feet long.

Native Americans planted squash in mounds because they could not easily till the soil with their primitive tools. Using hoes made from wood or bone, they pulled the dirt into small mounds and planted three to five squash seeds in the top of each mound.

Make sure to add several shovelfuls of organic compost around each plant for nitrogen. Also, add a handful of crushed oyster shells for calcium and homemade wood ash (from native trees only) for potassium to the soil around each plant. Be careful not to overwater the plants once the beau-

tiful yellow flowers form. These flowers are an edible delicacy.

SQUASH VARIETIES FOR EVERY OCCASION AND FLAVOR Squash require a wide range of spacing depending on the variety. Read the seed packet or check the internet to find specific recommendations for your variety. Pumpkins have the biggest vine footprint; space the mounds or rows six feet apart. Our favorite summer squash varieties are Black Beauty Zucchini, Lemon Squash, Grey Zucchini, and Scallopini. Our favorite winter squash are Japanese Red Kuri, Butternut, Delicata, Blue Hokkaido, Baby Blue Hubbard, and Thai Rai Kaw Tok. For pumpkins, we love Rouge Vif d’Eetampes, Galeux D’ Eysines, Jarrahdale, South African Boer, and New England Sugar Pie.

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OUT & ABOUT ARTS & CULTURE 72 DATEBOOK 74 CELEBRATION 76 SOCIAL HOUR 78

What’s Inside Husband and wife duo, Calico Club, are bringing a new wave of sound to the Coastal Bend. Their tracks are filled with disco beats, dark tones, and atmospheric synths that all pair together to make unique music.

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OUT & ABOUT / ARTS & CULTURE

The Neon Underground Calico Club ushers in a new sound By: Carlos Cooper Photos contributed by: Calico Club

E

nter the Neon Underground with Calico Club, a dark, electronic dance duo that creates music that is immersive and will bring you into their world of sound and vision. A world where you can be melancholy and dance all at the same time. They are the self-professed, “soundtrack to your fantasies.”

The duo formed in San Antonio and features Calico Club (formerly known as Galacticat) and PleasureFaces. Their music is unique.

It’s disco, but it’s also morose, pairing dark tones with bright atmospheric synths, lush reverb drenched vocals, and pulsing drums.

They’re a product of their environment, of their time, but most important, the music is as unique as its creators.

“Artistically it started with me as ‘GALACTICAT’ making music, then Kim being featured on songs as ‘PleasureFaces,’” says Calico Club. “As the collaboration evolved, we changed the name to Calico Club.” Their creative process would also change with the name and the two have written all songs together since then.

They began performing live throughout San Antonio and attracted a lot of attention from regional electronic acts. They embarked on a tour with the now defunct band PBLC soon after. Their tour would take them throughout Texas and the Midwest. “That experience helped us grow as musicians and helped us realize what we wanted to do with the band,” says Calico Club. “We wanted to create.”

Calico Club released their first EP, Permanent Night, in 2014. The experience of touring and releasing recorded music for the first time would change their creative process yet again.

72 The Bend

“After we released our first EP we focused on our endeavors as multi-media artists.” The duo has always embraced old technology, opting for analog hardware like synthesizers and drum machines over laptop produced, digital electronic music. When their experimentation as multi-media artists began, it followed this same ethic.

“We delved into experimenting with analog video synthesizers and mixers. We have always been fascinated with older technology,” says Calico Club.

Where most artists would find this type of technology archaic, cumbersome, and an overall hassle, Calico Club has embraced its unique sound and look and the unique character that it gives their art. A Calico Club show is a beautiful multimedia experience—a feast for both the eyes and ears. Their shows take on more of an art installation feel, rather than just a traditional concert.

Just as their name and creative process has evolved over the years, so has their base of operations, with the duo now calling the Coastal Bend their home. “The move to corpus was job related,” says Calico Club. “It was an adjustment, as any move is, but we have definitely drawn inspiration from downtown. All the abandoned buildings were a perfect backdrop for our art. Seeing the remnants of some places and understanding there were feet that walked there years before we were ever thought of is wild.”

Calico Club’s live performance debut in Corpus Christi was a statement. February 16th at the NASA let the Coastal Bend know that Calico Club is here to usher in a new era of electronic music and multimedia art, bringing something new and inspiring to the Corpus Christi music and art scene.

CUISINE

AS B R E AT H TA K I N G AS

THE VIEW.

Taste the best of the Texas Coast at the famous Republic of Texas Bar and Grill. Located on the 20th floor of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel, this multi-level steakhouse offers an award-winning wine list, tempting wild game, seafood and prime beef all while taking in the panoramic views of the Corpus Christi bay.

OMNIHOTELS.COM 361-886-3515

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OUT & ABOUT / DATEBOOK

Mark Your Calendar MARCH DATEBOOK

ARTS

Young Artist Workshop: Celebrating Women in Art March 10th The Art Museum of South Texas is celebrating women artists with this workshop! After viewing samples of the work from artists such as Frida Kahlo, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Dorothy Hood, you will get the chance to paint your own masterpiece on canvas!

Make sure to visit artmuseumofsouthtexas.org to register.

1902 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

BENEFIT

COMMUNITY

3rd Annual Brunch on the Bay Presented by CC Cycle Plaza: Sea•Doo® March 25th For the third year in a row, we are serving up a bigger and better, one-of-a-kind family oriented brunch experience for the Coastal Bend. With this event, we hope to show off the quality and uniqueness of our local dining scene, all while hosting a fun and fresh community event! Come out and sample the best brunch menus from all around the Coastal Bend in the heart of downtown at the Art Center of Corpus Christi.

Enjoy food, live music, drinks, and fun activities for the whole family. Get your tickets online at thebendmag.com.

100 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78401

COMMUNITY

St. Paddy’s Festival March 17th & 18th The 7th Annual St. Paddy’s Festival will be the biggest one yet! They will be teaming up with St. Patrick’s School for the Shamrock Shuffle, live music, Celtic groups, amazing, food, drinks, and crafts!

601 N Water St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 74 The Bend

COMMUNITY

The Food Truck Smorgasboard March 24th Join Lazy Beach Brewing for an awesome food truck gathering! This event will feature multiple food trucks, craft beer, local vendors, live music, bounce houses, games, and more! Fun for the whole family on a Saturday? What more can you ask for!

7522 Bichon Dr #100, Corpus Christi, Texas 78414

FAMILY

ZZZs Under the Seas: Family Overnight March 9th & 10th Discover the Aquarium after dark! Bring the family and sleep with the fishes. You will get the chance to have an up-close encounter with an animal ambassador, watch a Dive Show and join in on all the fun specially planned for a nighttime stay. Children 6 and up are welcome and all children must be accompanied by an adult.

2710 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, Texas 78402

2018 Goodwill Run March 3rd Lace up those running shoes and race to support Goodwill! Sign up for your choice of a 5K, 10K, or 2 mile run all for a good cause. The first race will begin at 8 AM at Brewster Street Ice House.

This is a great way to support the community and be active all at the same time! Register online at v-f-productions.raceentry.com.

1724 N Tancahua St, Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

GROW

Local South Texas 6th Annual Farm to Table Dinner March 3rd Join the GROW local team for an evening of wonderful food all locally sourced. The menu will feature a delightful array of expertly-prepared menu items and wines sourced within a 200-mile radius of your dinner plate. This annual fundraiser benefits all GROW local South Texas programs such as the Corpus Christi Downtown Farmers’ Market, The Learning Garden, and so much more. Buy your ticket online at, growlocalstx.com. Scott and Kacy Frazier Farms

Welcome to the Family

Urbana Market + Deli

Small Planet Delicatessen

Sugarbakers Bistro & Bakery

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GO ONLINE TO THEBENDMAG.COM TO SIGN UP FOR OUR WEEKLY NEWSLETTER & STAY UP TO DATE ON THE LATEST NEWS, EVENTS, & HAPPENINGS

Stay updated. Get involved. Follow us.

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OUT & ABOUT / CELEBRATION

A Caribbean Journey Experience A tropical, but chic, affair

T

By: Jo Anne Howell Photos by: Rachel Benavides

he Texas State Aquarium celebrated the new Caribbean Journey addition with a wonderful event. Donors and friends were invited for a sneak peek complete with an exclusive evening event featuring delicious h’ors d’ourves and cocktails.

Special guests of the evening enjoyed viewing the amazing exhibits on all three levels as the new animal residents enjoyed the attention. From Flamingos to sharks, the event captured the beauty of the new addition.

Food was displayed in the Citgo Room with a wonderful view of the Harbor Bridge at night.

Grand palm floral arrangements made for a tropical but chic display.

76 The Bend

EVENT PLANNING AND STYLING: Jo Anne Howell, Oh Goodie Designs + Events GRAPHICS AND INVITATIONS: Harper Gray Designs for Oh Goodie Designs CATERING: Water’s Edge Catering SPECIALTY DESSERTS: Hester’s Catering FLORAL: The Blossom Shop SPECIALTY RENTALS AND LINEN: Butler Signature Events

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OUT & ABOUT / SOCIAL HOUR

New Life Refuge Ministries: Boots & Bling Ball Photos by: Gabriel Mancha

1. Julie and Doug Enderle & Dodee and Steve Hill 2. Alissa Chapman, Heather Lucas, Rachel Neff, Trista Martinez, & Rachel Neff

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OUT & ABOUT / SOCIAL HOUR

2018 Sammy Awards Photos by: Rachel Benavides

1. Eli Gonzalez, Grace Roberson, Zoe Rodriguez, & Andrea Guzman 2. Chris, Tasha, Emma,

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Madison, & Allie Pullin 3. Macie, Martin, Martin Jr. & Anthony Quintanilla 4. Rachel Beavers & Karen Mauch 5. Ginger Creasy, Barbara Woolsey, & Stacy Hedricks 6. Desiree Valencia, Sabrina Delgado, &

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7417 Lake Geneva | $347,000 | 4/3/1/2 | Waterfront

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Steak At Its Best

Great Food. Great Times. Great Experience.

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THE DRINK 90 DINING GUIDE 93 THE DISH 96

What’s Inside Gut health might not necessarily sound like the most interesting topic, but the dishes you can make to get “good bacteria” sure do look appetizing! Try out one of these recipes for a happy and healthy digestive system!

thebendmag.com

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CUISINE / FARM TO TABLE

Don’t Lament, Ferment: Kimchi, Kombucha, and Yogurt Gut health equals happiness in the form of these three recipes By: Justin & Kayla Butts Photos: Rachel Benavides

84 The Bend

D

ear friend, can we agree on something? Gut health is not an appetizing conversation. Nothing about “good bacteria” makes us hungry. Okay, agree to agree.

Still, it is critical to our health (and therefore happiness) to understand the role of good bacteria in gut health. Over 70% of the cells responsible for our immune system reside in our gut. In the recent flu epidemic, many people learned first-hand the importance of gut health when antibiotics destroyed the good bacteria in their gut. These poor people suffered stomach misery on top of their flu. When taking antibiotics, it is especially important to maintain your gut health with infusions of good bacteria.

Fortunately, you can build and sustain robust gut health with these simple, nutritious recipes. And here is the shocker of all shockers: these dishes are delicious. You would never think “good bacteria” could be so tasty!

Yogurt is one of the miracle foods of human history. Yogurt was discovered by accident around ten thousand years ago, when a bowl of warm milk encountered a wild strain of Lactobacilli. The good bacteria transformed the lactose of milk into the lactic acid of yogurt, which made it possible for lactose intolerant humans to consume. Yogurt is also richer in protein than milk and can be stored longer. Yogurt was a step forward in the advancement of mankind.

Homemade yogurt is rich, creamy, and incredibly delicious. Our little girls love their yogurt sweetened with local honey, blueberries, dried fruit, and granola. We use raw milk from grass-fed cows for our yogurt. This milk contains a higher concentration of good bacteria, healthy linoleic acid, and a higher percentage of vitamins and minerals than pasteurized, grain-fed milk. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature of the milk while it cooks. If the milk gets too hot, the yogurt will fail to set and instead will end up curds and whey.

This kimchi recipe is packed with colors and flavors. It is not too hot, not too sour, but well-balanced, crisp, and delightful. Kimchi is low in calories, fat, and sugar, but high in vitamins A, thiamine, riboflavin, and C, iron, calcium, selenium, and fiber. Kimchi is a good vegetarian source of essential amino acids as well as capsaicin, chlorophyll, carotenoids, and flavonoids. Some studies have shown that fermented cabbage may even help prevent the growth of cancer.

Kombucha is fermented sweet tea. Kombucha will give you a fermented kick, but it is the easiest and sweetest way to get your good bacteria. To make kombucha, you will need to find SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast) from a local vendor who prepares kombucha in house, like Eleanor’s Café + Market in Corpus Christi.

Let’s face it, gut health is not an appetizing subject. But these recipes will surprise you with their bold and healthy flavors. You can’t be happy if you are not healthy and these dishes are the happy way to get healthy.

thebendmag.com

85

CUISINE / FARM TO TABLE

KIMCHI

KOMBUCHA

YOGURT

Prep time: 30 minutes Inactive prep time: 2-5 days

Cook time: 20 minutes Prep time: <5 minutes Inactive prep time: about 7-10 days

Cook time: 15 minutes Inactive prep time: 5-24 hours

INGREDIENTS: 1 head (2-3lbs) napa cabbage, cut into 1” chunks ½ cup salt ½ lb radishes, cut into matchsticks 4 carrots, peeled and cut into matchsticks ¼ cup gochugaru (Asian chili) 1 bunch (about 4-6 whole) scallions, cut into 1” pieces 2 tbsp garlic, minced 1 tbsp ginger, grated 1 tsp sugar

INGREDIENTS: INGREDIENTS: 1 gallon distilled, spring, or drinking water (free of added minerals) 1 ¼ cup white granulated sugar 10 bags black tea, green tea, oolong, or jasmine tea 2 cups fermented kombucha with live cultures SCOBY (Optional additions: 2 cups fresh fruit, 2” thumb of ginger, 2 pieces lemongrass)

DIRECTIONS:

DIRECTIONS:

Wash cabbage well and place in a large bowl.

Add salt and enough water to submerge cabbage to bowl. Let sit for 1-2 hours.

Put water in a large pot over high heat until boiling. Remove from heat and stir in sugar until dissolved. Place tea bags in sugar water and let steep for 3-5 hours, until water has cooled.

Rinse cabbage and drain in colander. Return cabbage to bowl and add remaining ingredients. Stir well until ingredients are all well-incorporated. Spoon mixture into clean, sterile canning jars and pack kimchi down to remove air. Place lids on jars and store in a cool, dry place for 2-5 days.

86 The Bend

Add kombucha to tea and stir. Pour tea into clean, sterile bottles and add optional flavorings (if desired). Cover bottles with cheese cloth, paper towel, or tea towel and secure with a rubber band. Let sit at room temperature for 7-10 days before opening. Once opened, store kombucha in the refrigerator.

Warning: Do not shake kombucha to prevent spilling over.

1 quart high-quality whole milk (recommend raw milk from pastured, grass-fed cows) 5 grams yogurt starter, or 3 tbsp highquality, plain yogurt with active cultures DIRECTIONS: Pour a small amount (~1 tbsp) of cold water in medium-sized pot. Add milk and heat over medium heat until about 180°F. Remove pot from heat and let cool to about 110°F-120°F. Add yogurt starter to warm milk (if using yogurt, stir yogurt into 1 cup milk and add to the rest) and stir gently until well incorporated.

Pour into sterile jars and place into a yogurt maker, dehydrator, or in the oven at its lowest setting. Incubate for up to 24 hours, or until desired consistency is reached.

Secure lid onto jars and refrigerate. Will keep refrigerated for two weeks.

www.artmuseumofsouthtexas.org

JANUARY 12 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; APRIL 29, 2018

Funding generously provided in part by:

This exhibition was organized by the Art Museum of South Texas, affiliated with TAMU-CC, Corpus Christi, Texas.

361.825.3500 thebendmag.com 87 1902 N. Shoreline Blvd.

Corpus Christi, Texas 78401

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A home with a CBGB certification ensures the buyer that the home is built to standards exceeding the regular building code (a code-minimum home), that the paint, flooring, and cabinetry are free of harmful emissions, and that home is energy efficient. A certified Greenbuilt home has a low carbon footprint and low environmental impact, providing a more sustainable way of life, in the Coastal Bend.

And, since these standards are becoming increasingly important to buyers, a Greenbuilt home is also an excellent investment.

All Braselton homes are CBGB certified; in fact, Braselton Homes was a founding Member of the CBGB, and was the first local builder to build a CBGB Platinum level Home! We are proud to say that all our homes are built to the highest standards of green building.

To learn more about a home that is not only healthy, and environmentally friendly, but also a good investment, check out the Coastal Bend Green Built program at http://www.coastalbendgreenbuilt.org or tour CBGB certified Home today!

You can also visit any of our 7 fully furnished Braselton Model Homes, in the Corpus Christi Bay Area; for maps and directions, please visit us at braseltonhomes.com Green is good....a Green Built Homes not only saves its owners a lot of money, it also saves the environment.

See you in the neighborhood, Bart Braselton

Bart Braselton is the Executive Vice President of Braselton Homes, the Coastal Bend’s oldest and largest Homebuilder and Neighborhood Developer. Born and raised in Corpus Christi, Bart is the third generation of The Braselton family building in the Bay Area. Returning to Corpus Christi after earning a BBA in Finance, as well as a second degree in Real Estate, from the University of Texas, at Austin, Braselton began working in the family business as a construction superintendent. Since then, Braselton Homes has won numerous local, state, and national awards, including the Energy Star Leadership in Housing Award, as well as the Environments for Living Diamond Award for Energy Efficiency. And, the company has grown into one of the Nation’ s Largest Homebuilders, earning consistent rankings in the annual lists compiled by both Professional Builder, as well as Builder Magazine. Bart, a graduate of Leadership Corpus Christi Class 18, has served on numerous local community and business boards, including the Coastal Bend Green Built Initiative, Bay Area Smart Growth, and the Police Foundation. Presently, he serves on the Board of Directors for the Community Development Corporation, the United Corpus Christi Chamber of Commerce, the Builders Association and the Corpus Christi Business and Job Development Corporation.

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

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89

CUISINE / THE DRINK

Serfer Brew

Booch Vibe

kombucha is currently on sale at all three Farmer’s Markets: Downtown every Wednesday, Southside every Saturday, and on the Island every other Thursday.

They also accept special orders and catering events! You can find them on Instagram at @ serferbrew and on Facebook as Chimcha Foods LLC.

Getting healthy has never been this delicious By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Benavides

G

etting into a healthier lifestyle is always a good thing, but it’s not always the easiest thing to get excited about. Sometimes, people need a game changer to truly embrace it. For Jack Farrell, owner of Serfer Brew, a sip of his wife Nargiza’s kombucha did the trick.

The business came about when Farrell was looking to start a new career.

Fermenting kombucha for their family and friends is something he’s really passionate about and, luckily for us, he decided to share this passion to a much larger audience. From there, Serfer Brew was born.

With a vision to emulate all the values of a Corpus Christi local brand, they started selling their kombucha at the Corpus Christi Downtown Farmer’s Market in September of 2017. They started using bottles a month after (in an effort to help with the city’s glass recycling, they have a bottle return policy at .75 cents per returned bottle) and have become a staple and a favorite at the different farmer’s markets around the city.

Kombucha is the perfect mix of healthy and delicious. It’s a fermented drink that starts off as sweet tea and then a fermenting culture known as SCOBY

90 The Bend

(symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast) is added to it. This is where the kombucha process begins. The yeast converts the sugar or honey into alcohol and then the bacteria converts the alcohol into beneficial acids. Serfer Brew makes it their own by adding fruit juices and herbs to balance the acidity and to add more flavor. Kombucha detoxifies the body and is probiotic. It replenishes the good gut bacteria that we all have inside of us. This helps your digestive system operate, efficiently boosts your immune system, and gives a healthy glow to your skin.

With all our delicious and healthy options in the Coastal Bend, we all know by now that just because it’s good for your body does not mean it’s also not delicious. Serfer Brew makes sure of that. Their kombucha comes in two versions: regular which is made with cane sugar and a combination of green and black tea and Jun kombucha which is made with raw unpasteurized honey and green tea. Some of their current flavors include Pineapple Mango, Pineapple Jalapeno, Blackberry Safe, Raspberry Lemongrass, and Strawberry Lychee Hibiscus.

It’s these awesome flavors, its freshness, and the probiotics’ effectiveness that keeps people coming back for more and sets Serfer Brew kombucha apart.

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Expert

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| 160 U.S. Highway 181 West Taft, TX 78390 | www.mcnameelandscapesandnursery.com Landscape Design by: Donna Mazzola

Revision #:

Scale:

Landscape Plan: 1

Date: 3/24/2015

1" = 10'

McNamee Landscapes Schade PRP FOR HAIR GROWTH

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Triggers and maintains the growth phase Increases blood supply to the follicle Increases shaft size (thickness) Controls hair growth cycle Decreases hair loss

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GIVEAWAY Visit our facebook page to enter a giveaway for a Vampire Facial

DR. RYAN ROGERS MOHs Surgeon Board Certified Dermatologist

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91

FISHFISH WRAP WRAP Oyster Bar

Oyster Bar

Oyster Oyster Oyster Bar BarOyster Bar

Bar

Oyster Oyster Bar Bar

LENT: THE LE WATERSTREET N T : T HWAY E WA FRSH GUILFOYSTERS

www.waterstmarketcc.com

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LENT:L THE EN WATERSTREET T : T H EWAY WA

www LENT: LEN THE T WATERSTREET : www.waterstmarketcc.com THE W WAY AT

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 $ Omelettes are just the beginning here! Comfortable atmosphere with a flavor for casual dining and handmade family recipes. 6313 Wooldridge Rd #10, (361) 334-3942, Atomicomelette.com

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

100 N Shoreline Blvd, (361) 882-2047, Citrusbistro.com

THE EXCHANGE $$ From the floor to the ceiling, the walls, to your mind, and even right down to your palate, visiting The Exchange brings a sense of “home” to a downtown experience.

224 N. Mesquite St, (361) 414-9788, theexchangecc.com

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

Port Aransas

IRIE’S ISLAND FOOD $

Rockport

Live music

THE GRILLE $

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

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

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 $$ Burgers, burgers, and burgers!

Build it yourself or choose from their handcrafted menu.

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

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 $ SURFSIDE SANDWICH SHOPPE $ Dine inside or outside on the patio, and enjoy their large assortment of sandwiches and sides or have a nice cold beverage. Don’t forget the homemade desserts!

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

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

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

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

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

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ccso-bend.pdf

1

9/21/17

1:24 AM

Corpus Christi Symphony Orchestra HECTOR GUZMAN, MUSIC DIRECTOR

2017-2018 Moving Music Forward

Symphony Spectacular

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

2017-2018 SEASON

APRIL 21, 2018

TICKETS STARTING AT $21!

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

94 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

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

CAFÉ BONNA-PETIT $

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

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

FILLINGOOD BAKERY $ With fresh 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

made from scratch.

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

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

DRAGONFLY $$$ A fine multitude of international backgrounds to the cuisine prepared entirely from scratch daily by the owner and culinary artist. The menu is full of unforgettable flavor profiles to satisfy any craving.

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

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

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

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

PADRE PIZZERIA $ For over 15 years, their famous Padre pizza dough is handmade, hand-tossed and prepared daily. 14493 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-0787, Padrepizzeria.com

PORT “A” PIZZERIA $$ Bring the kids, as this family-friendly pizzeria offers an all-day buffet, video games and draft beer. Or, order straight off the menu! 407 E Avenue G, (361) 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

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

SEAFOOD

HOUSE OF ROCK $

Sit indoors, sit outdoors, see the Gulf Coast from any seat in the house while diving into top-quality coastal cuisine, live music and the best views around. 258 Snapdragon, (361) 749-4653, Blackmarlinbarandgrill.com

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

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

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

MESQUITE ST. PIZZA AND PASTA CO. $$ Their 60-year-old pizza oven brought in straight from Brooklyn New York makes for the perfect pizza. Plus, all the crusts and sauces are made in house.

617 Mesquite St, (361) 882-7499, Eatpizzadowntown.com

BLACK MARLIN BAR & GRILL $$$

DOC’S SEAFOOD AND STEAKS $$ Lively and enjoyable selection for surf ‘n’turf in an open-air setting overlooking the water, plus live music. 13309 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6744, Docseafoodandsteaks.com

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

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CUISINE / THE DISH

Nueces Café’s homemade desserts are also to die for and all freshly baked!

Try out their snickerdoodle muffins and lemon bars!

Good Food, Soul Food This cozy Calallen café fills more than just your belly.

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By: Jinky Romero Photos: Rachel Benavides

ntering Nueces Café feels like walking into your favorite meal being cooked at home. Even for first timers, the place just oozes with comfort and familiarity that engulfs you as soon as you walk in. These are precisely the feelings owner Cheri McCormick envisioned to invoke from customers when they first opened their doors in October of 2013. Good food, family, and community are some of the things that they feel strongly about and both Nueces Café’s atmosphere and menu show that.

Their walls are covered with words of optimism, positivity, and encouragement.

There’s even a board dedicated to their customers being featured in different newspapers and magazines. It’s easy to see it’s more than just a business both to the owners and the customers.

The cozy café’s menu is a wonderful and delicious selection of homemade family recipes. Their options are more on the lighter and healthier side, with wraps,

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sandwiches, salads, and smoothies taking front and center. “I see it as my family serving other families,” McCormick shared.

One of the many things created in house is their pesto, which is an employee recipe they’ve adapted. Their Chicken Pesto Panini, which contains grilled chicken breast, Swiss cheese, and their pesto, is a hearty and delicious blend of flavors that will leave you craving it for days. Another favorite is their Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad Croissant, a unique and filling sandwich that hits all the right spots.

If you’re looking for good food to fill your belly and good vibes to fill your soul, Nueces Café is definitely the place for that.

Contact 15552 Northwest Blvd, Robstown, TX 78380 (361) 933-1116

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

ISLAND TIME SUSHI BAR & SEAFOOD GRILL $$ Stop in for fresh and inventive sushi, seafood, appetizers and desserts! Check out the weekday specials!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

15121 S Padre Island Dr #101, (361) 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

Waterstreetmarketcc.com

SALTWATER GRILL $$

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

Unique family atmosphere with fresh and tasty seafood that will leave you coming back for more. 2401 Cimarron Blvd, (361) 993-7258, Saltwatergrillcc.com

SCUTTLEBUTT’S BAR & GRILL $$ Extensive menu makes sure to have something for everyone. Foods made from scratch from the dressings to the burger patties. 14254 S Padre Island Dr, (361) 949-6769, Scuttlebuttsbarandgrill.com

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

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

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

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

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

YARDARM $$$

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,

thebendmag.com

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THE BEND / LOOKING BACK

Britton-Evans Centennial House Stands Watch Centennial House has stood since frontier times and now helps us learn about those times in Corpus Christi.

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

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earing 170 years old, this house at 411 N. Upper Broadway holds the title of Corpus Christi’s oldest surviving home. The Britton-Evans Centennial House was built in 1849-50 by Forbes Britton, a statesman and business man who came to Corpus Christi with General Zachary Taylor during the Mexican War. Returning to the city to settle, Britton acquired the land from the city’s founder Henry Kinney. He built this Greek Revival style home on the bluff, overlooking Corpus Christi Bay. The home was built with a perfect view of the 170-foot long Mann’s Wharf, the city’s primary commercial pier, which was located near today’s Cooper’s Alley.

The house saw action in the Civil War as it served as a hospital and mess hall as both armies made their way through the city. After

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the war, it returned to use as a family home to a handful of Corpus Christi’s settlers and changes were made to the house, especially by the Evans family, who called it home for over 50 years. These included replacing the original spiral staircase and adding electricity to the home. Future tenants, including the offices of Southern Mineral Corp., benefitted from these upgrades as they occupied the building into the 1960s.

It now stands as a museum in tribute to Corpus Christi’s early beginnings. To literally walk in the footsteps of Corpus Christi’s history, the Heritage Society welcomes visitors for tours the first Sunday of each month from noon to 4pm.

thebendmag.com

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