Community Stories

The Gulf Coast Capital community is composed of many movers and shakers that truly make our destination unique. Each community story features a unique person or business that goes above and beyond in their craft, embodies community pride, and inspires others to love where they live. In this series, we highlight some of Corpus Christi's best advocates, explorers, innovators, and doers.

Artisan Chefs

Francesco Inguaggiato

A former professional basketball player turned renowned chef, who brings the authentic…

Natalie Trevino

Inspired by memories of Saturday dinner at her Oma’s house and fueled by a deep love…

Eddie Warren Jr

From the world of mixed martial arts to the artistry of the kitchen is a tale of…

OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS

Zack Jurasek

Turning childhood memories of nighttime aquatic adventures

Olivier Jallais

From the French Caribbean to Corpus Christi’s premier windsurfing instructor

Kelly Taylor

Stacie Richline

Founder of Water Dog Floating Yoga in Corpus Christi

LOCAL OUTDOOR ARTISTS

Mayra Zamora

Read about Mayra Zamora’s fearless embrace of color and how it transforms her works…

Jeremy Flores

EXPLORE MORE

Monica Garcia

Monica Garcia, Corpus Christi influencer and founder of Corpus Christi Bucket List set out on a journey in 2019 to discover more of the city she grew up in. Since then, Monica has continued to love her city by staying up to date with all it has to offer while showing visitors and locals alike her many adventures, here in the Gulf Coast Capital. "The best we can do in Corpus is to look for ways to make memories in our city" #CCME

Denise McVey - Funky Monkey Salon

All it took was one deep-sea fishing trip for Denise McVey, owner of Funky Monkey Salon, to pack up and make Corpus Christi her new home. Her passion for her community and love for downtown makes Water Street Village the perfect spot for her salon. Funky Monkey Salon has some of the best styling Downtown Corpus Christi has to offer. Stop by for a bottle of wine, fresh cut, or a lively chat about what makes our community so great!

Chelsea Martino

Chelsea Martino has always loved animals. As a marine mammal trainer at the Texas State Aquarium, she gets to live her dream and support the conservation efforts happening in Corpus Christi Texas.

Dr. Chuck Blend

Dr. Chuck Blend, a Professor and doctor of science, has been volunteering at the Corpus Christi Science and History for over x amount of years. Take as listen at Dr. Blend's story on getting involved with the Gulf Coast Capital Community. #CCME

VNP Gallery

Located at the heart of Downtown Corpus Christi, VNP Gallery could not be left out of our list of black-owned businesses being featured this month. It’s no surprise that thrifting is a local favorite; certainly, this is one among the many businesses that are unique to our area. VNP prides itself on having some of the most rad vintage streetwear pieces in the coastal bend area. With its unique twist on retail, this local gem is both stylish and eco-friendly. You can check them out for yourself at 505 S Water St, Corpus Christi, TX!

Dexter Rhines - Hemisphere Cafe

Whether you're in the mood for sweet or savory, this shop is sure to have plenty of options for your daily pick-me-up! Located inside of The Corpus Christi Athletic Club, the locally-owned coffee shop also known as Hemisphere Cafe is proud to serve the Corpus Christi area. Co-owner Dexter Rhines prides himself in giving the community a unique experience not only through his products but also through the opportunity to build lasting relationships with customers day in and day out.

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Community Stories

Artisan Chefs

Francesco Inguaggiato

Natalie Trevino

Eddie Warren Jr

OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS

Zack Jurasek

Olivier Jallais

Kelly Taylor

Stacie Richline

LOCAL OUTDOOR ARTISTS

Mayra Zamora

Jeremy Flores

EXPLORE MORE

Monica Garcia

Denise McVey - Funky Monkey Salon

Chelsea Martino

Dr. Chuck Blend

VNP Gallery

Dexter Rhines - Hemisphere Cafe

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