Monica Garcia, CC Bucket list
Monica Garcia knows where to find the best food, drinks, shopping venues, and fun experiences in Corpus Christi. In 2019, she began exploring the city and its offerings in what started out as a summer staycation and later evolved into a yearlong adventure. She loves discovering new places, trying new food, and appreciating the city’s unique offerings. With support from family and friends, Monica started the #ccbucketlist in 2020 to begin sharing her experiences with locals, visitors, and anyone looking to explore our beautiful Corpus Christi.
Elena and Gerald Flores
Elena and Gerald are a dynamic entrepreneurial duo from Corpus Christi, Texas. Elena is the creative force behind Sew Bonita, a lively gift shop celebrating Latino culture with colorful designs and crafts, including t-shirts, jewelry, home decor, and more. She started her business sewing products at home and selling them online, eventually opening a brick-and-mortar store. Gerald owns Taco Gear, a popular apparel and merchandise line featuring Mexican food-themed shirts, hats, and more. Now, Gerald houses his Taco Gear products in the Sew Bonita store. Every weekend, they host a local business inside Sew Bonita, providing a platform for others to share their products with the community. Together, they enrich the local culture and economy of Corpus Christi through their unique and vibrant businesses and contributions.
Bob Batterson
Captain Robert E. "Bob" Batterson, U.S. Navy Retired, was a respected and honored member of the Corpus Christi community, known for his remarkable life and dedicated service. As a Pearl Harbor survivor, Bob was stationed at the Naval Station Pearl Harbor during the infamous attack on December 7, 1941. Following his retirement, Mr. Batterson continued to serve his community for over 30 years by volunteering at the USS Lexington Museum, where he shared his experiences and inspired others to serve. Bob Batterson’s sadly passed away on August 11, 2023, but his legacy is one of fortitude, faith, compassion, and integrity, and his life story serves as an inspiration to many.
Brad and Richard Lomax
Brad and Richard Lomax, prominent figures in the Corpus Christi community, are significantly impacting the local food and business scene. Brad, a visionary entrepreneur, became one of the city's most successful restaurateurs, and nearly four decades ago, he opened the Water Street Oyster Bar, which has since become a local institution. His passion for the community and culinary arts also led him to establish the Texas Surf Museum and various retail spaces, contributing to the revitalization of downtown Corpus Christi. Richard is following in his father’s footsteps, managing the Water Street Oyster Bar, the Sushi Room, and the Executive Surf Club, while also spearheading new restaurants including Central Kitchen and El Camino. Outside of restaurants, Brad created the Texas Oyster Ranch, representing his commitment to innovation and sustainability as the first commercial oyster farm in Texas, aiming to cultivate and harvest local oysters. Together, they have successfully navigated the family business, continually driving its growth and success. The Lomax family embodies entrepreneurial spirit and a deep-rooted love for Corpus Christi, leaving a lasting legacy in their community.
Muralists
Corpus Christi is home to a vibrant art scene where local muralists bring the city’s essence to life on the walls of the downtown area and is expanding to other parts of the city. Each life size mural tells a unique story of the city’s rich history and diverse heritage. Jeremy Flores, Mayra Zamora, and Monica Marie Garcia are three of our local, talented muralists that contribute to the growing landscape of color and creativity adorning our city. To celebrate the growing mural landscape, the city hosts the annual Mural Fest, a celebration of creativity and culture that transforms the Marina Arts District into a canvas of color and expression. Artists from around the world join local artists to contribute to the artistic landscape and discover the hidden gems that make this city so special.
Nate Floyd, Wind and Wave
Nate Floyd is a prominent figure in the Corpus Christi watersports scene and co-owner of the esteemed Wind and Wave Watersports. With over 35 years of history, this family-owned surf shop has become a cornerstone of the local community, providing enthusiasts with everything they need to enjoy the coastal lifestyle. Nate is passionate about sharing the joys of surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking with both locals and visitors, with his loyal dog Mana along for the ride. His expertise and love for the ocean are evident in the personalized service and quality gear offered at Wind and Wave.
Olivier Jallais,
Worldwinds Watersports
Olivier Jallais is a distinguished figure in the Corpus Christi windsurfing community, known for his skill and dedication to the sport. As an instructor at Worldwinds Windsurfing, Olivier has played a pivotal role in promoting windsurfing in the region. He represented Corpus Christi and Worldwinds Windsurfing at the 2019 Maui Slalom Nationals, showcasing his expertise and passion for windsurfing on a national stage. Beyond his personal achievements, Olivier is instrumental in organizing events that spotlight Corpus Christi as a premier destination for watersport enthusiasts.
Chef Jeff Rosenhoover
Chef Jeff Rosenhoover is the Executive Chef and Director of Sunset Island, and is also the culinary mastermind at Snoopy's Pier, a beloved seafood destination in the community. With a passion for coastal cuisine and a flair for innovation, Chef Jeff transformed Snoopy's Pier into a culinary hotspot that blends traditional Gulf Coast flavors with modern twists. His dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients shines through every dish, from the succulent shrimp and oysters to the signature fish tacos that keep patrons coming back for more. He also spearheaded the creation of Snoopy's Pearl Oyster Bar, an exciting new venture where he showcases his expertise in oyster preparation, offering a variety of fresh, flavorful oyster dishes that celebrate the rich bounty of the Gulf.
DJ El Dusty
El Dusty, a producer and DJ rooted in Corpus Christi, Texas, is a trailblazer in the nu-cumbia genre, merging South Texas border culture with innovative barrio anthems. With the MPC2000 sampler and Latin music samples, he crafts unique sounds that bridge Latin classics with contemporary bass-heavy and hip-hop influences. El Dusty’s innovative style captures the essence of his bi-cultural heritage, earning him a Latin Grammy nomination. His live performances are a dynamic mix of music and visual projections creating an immersive, fun, and unique musical experience.
Terrie Moore, Wildflowers
Terrie Moore, owner of Wildflowers, has curated a space that celebrates the region’s artistic talent in her home and garden boutique. Her boutique, located in the bustling Water Street Market, is a treasure trove of European antiques, easy to grow plants, and unique handmade items that enhance the shopping experience in downtown Corpus Christi, and offers a piece of Corpus Christi’s culture to take back home.
