Island Guide March 2015 edition by The Island Guide

March 6, 2015 • Issue 3, Volume 4

Stuttgarden Tavern :

The Garden of Eatin’ (and Drinking)

Ocean Roots:

Island Life, Island Music

Boatless on the Island: Billy Blues Photography: How to Get On the Water

Shooting the Island Everyday

In Galveston Home of the Water Wall Band & DJ Schedule March 6th - Marty Monte March 7th - Dark Energy March 13th - Skip Devlin March 14th - Northern South March 20th - Skip Devlin March 21st - Marty Monte March 27th - Shaun Michaels March 28th - Naked Truth April 4th - Andy and the Dreamcicles Upcoming Events Serving food, beer, wine and full liquor bar March 14th thru 17th Take out available â&#x2C6;&#x2122; Dog Friendly Patio St. Patrick's Day Party - All Day Live Music Every Friday & Saturday April 25th-26th 2110 Strand St., Downtown Galveston Fruehlingsfest (Little Oktoberfest) - All Day May 1st-2nd ( ) Fruehlingsfest (Little Oktoberfest) - All Day Open Daily 11:00am-1:00am

409 497-4972 Food served till 1:30am

"stuttgarden.onthestrand"

Located at 18th & Seawall Blvd. - Galveston, Texas 77550

(409) 762-2453 www.islandbicyclecompany.com

2 The Island Guide Magazine

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(409)256-5166

JOIN THE FUN!!! 9500 Seawall Blvd. Just past Jimmyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fishing Pier on Seawall

409-740-6878

Hours: Open Daily 10am-10pm, 10 a.m. toFriday 11 p.m. Weather Permitting Sunday - Thursday & Saturday 10am-11pm

3rd Annual

The goal of Out Run Hunger is to improve access to nutritional foods for all children despite their economic status. Out Run Hunger is a county-wide collaboration with various organizations, individuals and entities. “Out Run Hunger is our major annual fundraiser for local families who struggle with having enough food to feed their families.

There will also be a Children’s 1k Fun Run, Various family activities will be held throughout the day including a Morning Warm-Up, Entertainment, Healthy Living Vendors, and a Children’s Area featuring Egg Hunt, Cooking Class and Other fun filled, Educational Activities

Friendly Faces with Lots of Smiles Centrally Located Near Everything!

A great place to enjoy nature, try your hand at fishing, riding bikes and spending time with your kids and family. Enjoy your stay!

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Great Rates - Lots of Amenities -- Reserve Today! 6310 Heards Lane - Galveston Island, Texas 77551 409-744-2837

www.bayoushoresrvresort.com

If you would like more information on Out Run Hunger, would like to participate, become a vendor or sponsor the event, please contact Natalie Clarke at (409) 945-4232 or Natalie@galvestoncountyfoodbank.org. About the Galveston County Food Bank The Galveston County Food Bank is a nonprofit organization that has provided food for people at risk of hunger throughout Galveston County for 12 years. The food bank was originally founded as Gleanings From The Harvest in 2003 and became a partner distribution office of the Houston Food Bank in 2012. Our mission is to increase access to nutritious foods and lead the community in ending hunger. As the county's hub for integrated food assistance, the food bank tackles the hunger issue in collaboration with its 56 participating agencies.

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March 6, 2015 • Issue 3, Volume 4

Contents 5-6 Dining » “Stuttgarden Tavern on the Strand: The Garden of Eatin’ (and Drinkin’)” by Kimber Fountain » “Sonny’s Place: The Biggest Little Restaurant in Galveston” by Kimber Fountain » “Gino’s Italian: A Celebration of Family and 40 Years” by Kimber Fountain » Howdy Bakers! Enter the Texas Independence Day Cake Showdown: Lone Star State Ingredients Key to Victory in Cake Showdown » Organizers Seeking Eggstravagant Coops, Humble Hen Houses and Everything in Between » Galveston County Food Bank is Working to “Out Run Hunger” with 1K, 5K and 10K Event 7-9 Music » “Ocean Roots: Island Life, Island Music” by Kimber Fountain » The Grand 1894 Opera House: Spring Fever » The Music Guide for Live Music Across the Island 10 Movies by Dustin Chase » Reviews for “The Last Five Years,” “McFarland USA,” and “Focus” » Free Movies Downtown on the Strand Returns

Hours: 11-5 Thurs - Tues, 12-4 Sun, Closed Wed 408 23rd St., Galveston, 409.795.8628 Facebook: vintage

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Staff

Publisher Tena Jerger

How to be a Part of “Island Guide”

Sales Manager Louie Jerger

Copy Editors Gini Rainey, Susan Morris Editorial Terry Card, Dustin Chase, Kimber Fountain, Rob Lucey, Gini Rainey Photography Gina Hickman, Christa Schreckengost Distribution Terry Card, Kimber Fountain, Louie Jerger, Alex Smith © 2015 Island Guide Magazine The Island Guide welcomes your opinions, comments and inquiries. Please contact us at:

Bloody Shark Bait Inshore & Offshore Bait Ice $1.85 - Cold Drinks - Snacks Picnic Supplies - T-shirts (Bulldogs)

1813 61st, Galveston TX 77551

409-740-2220 - Follow our Island Fish Catches on Facebook 4 The Island Guide Magazine

12-14 The Island Guide Fun Maps 15 Books » “A Potpourri of Spring Reads” by Gini Rainey » Galveston Bookshop and Eighteen Seventy One Welcomes Book Signings Throughout the Month 16-19 Things to Do » “Boatless on the Island: How to Get On the Water” by Rob Lucey » “The Home & Garden Show: Catch Spring Fever,” Celebrate Women Texas Style: The 8th Annual Mind, Body, Spirit Conference, SHP Causeway FunD Run/ Walk, “Godspell” at Island ETC, and Tons More 20-22 The Fine Arts » “Joey Quiroga and The Tremont Gallery Galveston” by Kimber Fountain » There’s Lots of On-Going Exhibits at Local Galleries 23 Tours » “Billy Blues Photography: Explore the Beauty of our Island” by Terry Card » From Sea to History: There’s Tours for Everyone

GalvestonIslandGuide.com

(409)256-5166

PO Box 130133 Tyler, Texas 75713-0133 (409)256-5166 GalvestonIslandGuide.com theislandguide@gmail.com

“The Island Guide” is published once a month on the first Friday of the month. Deadlines for editorial and advertisements is the 20th of each month. We are distributed at over 380 locations on Galveston Island and the West End. We will list at no charge most events open to the public. All necessary information should be e-mailed and include the date, time, ticket cost, description of event, phone number for the public, website address, and photos - the more the better. “The Island Guide” will make every effort to include as much as possible. Please include who to contact. Send to: theislandguide@gmail.com “The Island Guide” Fun Maps are published in every issue. Businesses are added on a space available basis and are not guaranteed placement.

Deadlines:

Island Guide is published the first Friday of every month. Deadline for submission of advertising is the 20th of every month.

Dining

Sonny’s Place:

The Biggest Little Restaurant in Galveston

Stuttgarden Tavern on the Strand:

By Kimber Fountain, Photos by Christa Schreckengost

The Garden of Eatin’ (and Drinkin’) By Kimber Fountain, Photos by Christa Schreckengost On its path to becoming one of the most influential and powerful ports of both commerce and immigration in the 19th century, the fabric of the city of Galveston was woven by the talented and multi-faceted hands of European influence. Evidenced today by the stunning historic architecture, the diverse and cultured community, and the city’s overall feel and flavor, the remnants of that internationally crafted past remains the basis for the mass appeal of our little Island city. Fully in step with this melting-pot image is one of the newest additions to Galveston’s food and beverage scene, Stuttgarden Tavern on the Strand. A year ago, Eric Jones and Danny Nelson were co-workers at a frequented local pub, when one day a guy walked in. “He wanted to know why everyone in the place was at our end of the bar,” Danny remembers. Such was the keen eye of John Mortenson, a Maritime Transportation student at Texas A&M Galveston, who apparently was not only adept at recognizing talent, but also at recognizing a void that needed to be filled. “I noticed that Galveston didn’t have many upscale places, not necessarily [fancy], just places that weren’t a smoke-filled tavern or a beach bar,” John says. Thus the seeds of Stuttgarden were planted, and when their current location went on the market, “We jumped on it,” Danny says. A native of the Island, he remembered Folen’s Waterwall fondly, the restaurant that occupied their current space for almost 25 years. “It is 80% outside and 20% inside, so it just made sense to open a German beer garden,” but there was an added impetus for him in paying homage to the longstanding and well-loved restaurant. The idea for the German-themed restaurant was further propelled by the addition of Derek Groenewold, who, if you cannot already tell by the last name, brought not only his investment savvy but also his German heritage to the game. “He contributed a lot to the menu,” Danny says, “and he is responsible for the name.” Unbeknownst to the fellow partners at first, it was ultimately revealed by Derek that Stuttgart is the name of a town in Germany, acclaimed for its rich cultural and artistic heritage. With Danny and Eric’s background in the service industry, it was also important to them to create a place where servers and bartenders would have a place to go when they were finished with their evening shifts, and for this reason the earliest that the kitchen closes is 1am. It was also the inspiration for their Reverse Happy Hour, which runs on weeknights from 11pm-close at 1am. Despite its dominant image as a German spot, Stuttgarden decided to bring an all-encompassing European feel to their menu. When first developing the menu, Danny remembers that they had pages and pages of ideas. “We all threw in what we wanted, and we all wanted something different.” But they managed to pare it down while still keeping it versatile and appealing to a wide variety of people. “We wanted [our menu] to be open to everyone.” While much of their menu does feature traditional German flavors such as Bratwurst, Schnitzel, and Sauerkraut, it also provides a veritable European tour of tastes. Irish Nachos, Bangers and Mash,

Shepherd’s Pie, and Fish and Chips all take their place at this continental crossroad. There are plenty of American favorites on hand, too, like burgers, BLTs, Mac ‘n Cheese, and Chicken Fried Chicken. “We make nearly everything fresh and in-house,” Danny attests, “even our mustards.” They also make their own pickles, case their own sausages, and make their potato chips fresh. Features are offered daily and announced on their Facebook page, and every Wednesday night is Steak Night, which includes a 14-ounce Ribeye with broccoli and mashed potatoes for only $14. In addition to a full bar, Stuttgarden has a generous selection of twenty-four German and local craft beers on tap. Although they regularly and seasonally rotate their beer selections, they often feature varieties from Texas favorites like St. Arnold’s and Karbach, and Abita from Louisiana. German options can include Spaten, Paulaner, Hoffbraugh, and Warsteiner. In addition to their Reverse Happy Hour, Sunday nights are Stein Nights, with all draft beer $4 after 7pm. But all of that fantastic food and beer would be naught without Stuttgarden’s crowning glory, the ambiance and atmosphere of their beer garden. The original Waterwall itself has been repaired and is fully functional, providing both a gurgling, nostalgic soundtrack and a spectacular backdrop for live music acts on Friday and Saturday nights. Complete with trees and foliage, it is the perfect spot to relax and appreciate the sunny days or starry nights year-round, as the patio is fully heated and also boasts two fire pits. For added fun and entertainment, challenge your friends to a game of life-size Jenga or Cornhole or enjoy the latest sporting event on their projection screen. Stuttgarden also has the capability to host full-service, sit-down dinners in their outdoor area for semi-private events. Eric, Danny, John, and Derek also use their restaurant as a platform for galvanizing the local community, for good causes and just for fun. On March 7th they will be a spot on the Polar Poker Run, hosted by the Galveston chapter of Kiwanis, and they will host an Open Adoption in conjunction with the Galveston Island Humane Society on April 5th from 11am-3pm. March 14th through 17th join Stuttgarden for their 3-day long St. Patrick’s Day celebration, and stay tuned to their website for information on the 2015 Summer Bar Olympics, the brainchild of Danny and the source of anticipation for fun-loving barhoppers everywhere.

Stuttgarden Tavern on the Strand 2110 Strand, downtown Galveston, (409)497-4972 www.stuttgardentavern.com Open Seven Days a Week, 11am-2am

With menu items like Artery Clogger, Oyster Mug, and Shrimp Bun, it is obvious from the very beginning that Sonny’s is an Island original. The building that houses Sonny’s is one of those blink-andyou-will-miss-it types, but once inside the front door, the whirlwind of nostalgia hits you like one of their massive Muffalettas. Pinball machines, lollipops at the register, black and white photographs, multiple signs that read “Behave or Be Gone,” and “Please Watch Your Language,” and the endearing affection of an owner simply called “Junior,” all help set the scene for an incomparable dining experience that can only be found on Galveston Island. Known as “Galveston’s oldest family tavern,” Sonny’s was opened by the Puccetti family in 1944. Since that time, Sonny himself has passed, and Lawrence Puccetti, Junior, has taken the place of his father and mother, Theresa, who in the 1960s was hailed as, “the best cook on the Island.” Of course there are strictly enforced rules that you must abide with while you eat here (see above), but your good behavior will be well rewarded. The Muffaletta is so large that they will actually let you just purchase a fourth of one, and they take the Italy via New Orleans classic to an entirely new level by smothering the bread in Parmesan cheese before they grill it. Comfort foods abound, like Coney Island dogs, Frito Pie, homemade chicken soup and chili. The Artery Clogger is a chicken-fried steak sandwich piled high with bacon, two types of cheese, ranch dressing, and all the fixings. Burgers are inexpensive, grilled to perfection, and super fresh: they grind the meat for their burgers in house. The Shrimp Bun is a fried shrimp sandwich with homemade tartar sauce, available either “Dressed” or “Undressed.” Complement your sandwich with crispy fries, which also come in Nacho Fries and Super Nacho Fries varieties, or on Fridays only, with a cup of their gumbo made with an authentic, dark roux and your choice of shrimp, crawfish, or both. Rounding out the menu are the entree pasta dishes, featuring Grandma Theresa’s Spaghetti and Meat Sauce, a Sicilian family recipe that has been passed down through generations. Another claim to Sonny’s fame is the absolute protestation of locals that they have “the coldest beer I have ever tasted.” Just be sure to restrain yourself from the complimentary expletives that are bound to be summoned the moment it hits your lips.

Sonny’s Place

1206 19th Street, Galveston (409)763-9602 Open Tuesday-Thursday 11am-2pm, 5-9:30pm, Friday & Saturday 11am-2pm, 5-11pm, closed Sunday and Monday

Your Comfort Food Heaven 2219 Postoffice, Downtown (409) 539-5618 Wednesday 11a-3p & 5:30- ?

Unlimited Housemade Soups & Salad

795

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Howdy Bakers! Enter the Texas Independence Day Cake Showdown:

a mini mansion or cobbled together with recycled materials, consider having your hen house on the tour. To have your coop considered for the 2015 Galveston Island Chick Shack Strut please submit the following information via email to alicia@thekitchenchick.com: • Name, phone number, e-mail, physical address (must be on Galveston Island), photo(s) of coop, chicken breeds The Galveston Island Chicken Shack Strut is a one-day self-guided tour of coastal chicken coops, hen houses, mobile tractors and crazy shacks. Open to adults and children, the tour showcases Calling all bakers! It’s time to lasso your latest island chickens and their keepers, and demonstrates recipes and mosey on down to The Kitchen Chick how more and more city dwellers are incorporating to register for the third annual Texas Indepenchickens into their yards and lifestyles. dence Day Cake Showdown! The showdown will Visitors will be able to talk to hosts about coops, Calling all chicken enthusiasts! The third annual take place on Saturday, March 14th at the Galvesfeed, breeds, costs, and their experiences raising Galveston Island Chicken Shack Strut will take By Kimber Fountain ton Island Home and Garden Show and benefits healthy chickens in an urban environment. This is place on Satthe Galveston Island Humane Society. The winning urday, April a rain or shine event; fowl weather won’t stop the Siblings Josie Walker and Emanuele Mandini baker will take home a $100 gift certificate to The 4th. Everyone tour. are at the helm of a restaurant that was owned by Kitchen Chick as well as fame, glory and good old- is encouraged Tickets will be available from The Kitchen their father and which bears their uncle’s name. Chick, located at 528 23rd Street, downtown, to flock to the When asked what it has been like over the course fashioned braggin’ rights. Contestants must bake their entries in the offi- island this mid-March. of building a forty-year legacy, Josie’s reply resounds cial contest Texas-shaped cake pan available from Proceeds from the tour benefit the Seawall InterEaster weekwith both pride and a touch of exhaustion, “It’s pretive Trail (SIT) beautification program lead by end, tour been a journey. A nice journey, though, but a jour- The Kitchen Chick and use at least one Texasmade/harvested/created product in their recipe. Artist Boat, a Galveston non-profit organization dedlocal chicken ney… I was fourteen when I first started, I would Judges evaluate each baker’s use of Lone Star State coops, and icated to integrating the arts and sciences for exploget out of school and go straight to [the restauration and appreciation of coastal habitats. make some rant].” The pride undoubtedly rises out of the love ingredients during their deliberations. “Past bakers have gotten incredibly creative with their Keeping chickens is permissible within Galvesfeathered that Island locals have for them, reflected in the ton’s city limits. In recent years, more and more friends. nearly unmatched longevity of the restaurant. The cakes and use of Texas ingredients,” noted Alicia Cahill, owner of The Kitchen Chick. “We’ve seen islanders are raising chickens at home, often inteOrgatouch of exhaustion is understandable considergrated with backyard gardens, compost sysnizers are ing that she and her brother still preside over daily everything from lavender to pecans to cactus to beer show up in the sweet and savory entries, it’s tems, beehives, and other elements of urban food looking for operations, and have since the early 1990s when awesome.” production. enthusiasthey took over the business for their father. Bakers can register in the contest by calling The tic chickenFor more information about becoming a Together, with other extended family memGalveston Island Chicken Shack Strut tour stop, keepers who bers who had moved to the United States from Italy Kitchen Chick, (409)497-2999. The cost to enter the Texas Independence Day Cake Showdown is volunteer, or sponsor please call (409)497-2999 or would like and Sicily, Josie and Emanuele’s father opened the original Gino’s as a bakery in 1975 at 4502 Avenue $10 for one entry; $18 for two entries; and $25 for to open their yards to visitors. Whether the coop is e-mail alicia@thekitchenchick.com. S. When grocery stores began to include bakeries, thus decreasing the demand for their baked goods, all of them,” said Twila Lindblade, Executive Direc- Community Relations Director for the food bank. they began to serve pizza. Then in 2001, when they tor for the food bank. “Last year, we served 17,000 Every dollar raised through “Out Run Hunger” moved to their current location, they expanded families per month at the Galveston County Food can help supplement four meals. These dollars also into the full-service, full-menu operation they are Bank. The need is prevalent.” help expand the Galveston County Food Bank’s today. All the while, they have steadily maintained “Out Run Hunger” is a chip-timed 5K and 10K Children’s Nutritional Program and decrease the their position as the hometown go-to favorite for that will be held April 4th at Moody Gardens on number of children affected by childhood obesity. authentic Italian fare. Galveston Island. Those wishing to participate in “Out Run HunDo you know that food that just feels good “‘Out Run Hunger’ is designed to bring famiger” are asked to register online at www.galvestonwhen you eat it? Well, that pretty much sums up lies together. The food bank helps seniors living on countyfoodbank.org. Event organizers encourage the awesomeness that is Gino’s. You can taste the a fixed income, children who don’t have enough families, congregations, schools and companies freshness, the history, and the love that crafted food to eat on the weekends and working families to participate and build camaraderie among their every dish and every slice. The menu includes a who are struggling to make ends meet,” said Jenni- peers. By participating in the event, individuals variety of homemade pastas, from spaghetti to fer Burnett, Board Vice President. “Our hope is that will discover that they have the power to “Out Run ziti and ravioli to manicotti, as well as chicken, families will participate in ‘Out Run Hunger,’ volun- Hunger!” veal, and shrimp, all offered in various preparateer, enjoy family activities and learn how they can If you would like more information on “Out tions. Appetizers, salads, and sandwiches are also give back.” Run Hunger,” would like to participate, become a available, and desserts include homemade cannoIn addition to the 5K and 10K run, there will vendor or sponsor the event, please contact Natalie lis, cheesecakes, tiramisu, and an ever-changing also be a children’s 1K fun run. Various family Clarke at (409 945-4232 or Natalie@galvestoncounselection of cakes that can include Lemoncello, activities will be held throughout the day includtyfoodbank.org. Rum Cake, Black Forest Cake, or Amaretto Chocoing a morning warm-up, entertainment, healthy livlate Cake. Whole cakes can be purchased with an About the Galveston County advanced order. The Galveston County Food Bank is gearing up ing vendors and a children’s area featuring an egg Gino’s offers a full-service dining experience, and for its 3rd annual 5K and 10K run, “Out Run Hun- hunt, cooking class and other fun filled, educational Food Bank The Galveston County Food Bank is a nonprofit activities. also provides catering, carryout, and delivery from ger.” The event was renamed and formerly known organization that has provided food for people at Last year, the Galveston County Food Bank open to close to anywhere on the Island (minimum as the “Mother’s March for Healthy Foods.” The risk of hunger throughout Galveston County for provided weekend backpacks of nutritional food order required). They also have a separate lunch goal of “Out Run Hunger” is to improve access to 12 years. The food bank was originally founded as to 4,714 children and the need is increasing. One menu, daily off-the-menu featured items, and an nutritional foods for all children despite their ecoongoing daily special: with the purchase of one large nomic status. “Out Run Hunger” is a county-wide in five Galveston County residents experience food Gleanings From The Harvest in 2003 and became insecurity daily, of which nearly 17,000 are children a partner distribution office of the Houston Food pizza, a second, two-topping pizza is only $5.95. collaboration with various organizations, individu- under the age of 17. Bank in 2012. Our mission is to increase access to als and entities. nutritious foods and lead the community in end“Good nutrition is important in establishing Gino’s Italian Restaurant “‘Out Run Hunger’ is our major annual funding hunger. As the county’s hub for integrated food and maintaining a good foundation for a child’s 6124 Stewart Rd., (409)762-6481 raiser for local families who struggle with having assistance, the food bank tackles the hunger issue in www.ginositalianfood.com success. Nutrition can affect a person’s physicollaboration with its 56 participating agencies. Open Daily 11am-9pm, Closed Tuesday, Fridays enough food to feed their families. We serve fami- cal health, mental health, academic achievement For additional info contact (409)945-4232 open until 11pm lies in every city in our county and this event is for and economic productivity,” said Natalie Clarke,

Gino’s Italian:

A Celebration of Family and 40 Years

three entries. Proceeds benefit the Galveston Island Humane Society. Contest entrance fee includes the baker’s ticket to the Galveston Home and Garden Show where the official judging will take place. Official rules are available online at the website, www.thekitchenchick.com. Following the conclusion of the contest, forks will be available to the public for a $1 donation. Any remaining cake will be sampled and enjoyed.

Lone Star State Ingredients Key to Victory in Cake Organizers Seeking Showdown Eggstravagant Coops, Humble Hen Houses and Everything in Between

The Galveston County Food Bank is Working to “Out Run Hunger”

213 23rd Street - Downtown Galveston (409)762-0144

Join us for a Board Meeting of a Lunch time!

Espresso bar and full menu! Open 11am-10pm and 11am-Midnig Sun-Thurs ht Fri & Sat

Stop by and have a game on us! Games Make Great Gifts! Swing By and Check out our Huge Selection of Games For Sale Check our website for upcoming events and tournaments - www.boardgameisland.com 6 The Island Guide Magazine

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Music Ocean Roots: Island Life, Island Music By Kimber Fountain Where does music come from? From notes on a page, from instruments, from voices? Yes, but that is a bit like saying that water comes from the faucet in the kitchen, when there is so much more to the story. Touted by many as the “Universal Language,” music knows no dialect and no boundaries. It is as deep as the fathoms of the Gulf of Mexico, as infinite as the view of the horizon from the Seawall; its notes are as numerous as the sands on Galveston’s beach and as life-giving as the salty seas. And if you were to ask a band called Ocean Roots from whence their music comes, they would most likely answer, “all of the above.” Of course if you were to meet them or listen to their music that question would be unnecessary and redundant, for their Island style is unmistakable, and the lives they have lived that conjured such a sound have been steeped in the warm coastal waters of Galveston and brewed by the beach. At a mere 20 years old, fraternal twins Morgan and Skylar Smith elicit a sound and a musical style that resounds with a wisdom and maturity of musicians twice their age, undoubtedly due to a remarkable life on the Island. “We wanted them to live on the earth, we wanted them to have a real life, not a plastic one,” says their mother Gillian Smith. As children they would dumpster dive and use their reclaimed materials to build boats and rafts, they fished every day, and their watery adventures even garnered them a friend in the form of a magnificent Blue Heron, who for eight years until disappearing after Hurricane Ike, would follow them everywhere they went and even eat out of their hands. Shortly after the storm, the family procured a television (their first) simply to keep them apprised of the aftermath, but it was not long until the brothers told their mother to get rid of it, saying, “There is nothing on TV that is good for us.” Although Hurricane Ike took their friend the heron, in its wake it also brought a remarkable validation of their talent. A roofer who was working on the repairs to their house heard the two practicing in their room, and subsequently dropped what he was doing, jumped down on to the balcony from the roof, and knocked on the door. “Your kids play reggae?” he asked Gillian, incredulously, to which she answered yes, and agreed to let him listen for a minute. When the worker asked Skylar and Morgan where and how they learned to play like that, they merely answered, “We just feel it.” That man ended up being an old friend of Bob Marley’s who had grown up next door to him and had even played in his first three bands. He had come to Galveston specifically to help with the clean-up efforts, and although many would just chalk that up to “coincidence” even though there is no such thing, his praise of their talent and their answer to his inquiry is a concise summation of their captivating musical prowess. Morgan began playing music at a very early age, first picking up the violin. After that he transitioned to the mandolin, then finally to the guitar. Skylar embarked on his own musical journey whose immediate outlet was the guitar, but then about six years ago he switched to the bass. “We liked having two guitars because it creates a more well-rounded sound,” Morgan explains. Skylar continues, “but we couldn’t find a bassist so I decided just to play it myself.” Their songwriting is a collaborative effort, most of them are written initially by Morgan but Skylar takes them and fleshes out the sound. As far as Morgan’s vocal performances go, “they convinced me I could sing, so I did,” he laughs, and remembers being really confused when a family member began crying at the sound of his voice. Although he would not guarantee such a reaction for his

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Located at 3819 Ave T, Galveston, (409)761-5503

audiences, his soft, poignant timbre is unmistakably reminiscent of the incomparable Bob Dylan. Their first album was released in 2012, entitled “Wind N Water,” a tribute to the natural forces that have shaped their lives and their music, and most of the songs were written and recorded when they were only 15. It is not, however, a cacophony of teenage angst or adolescent pursuits. “We really focus on positivity in our music,” Morgan says, “we try to keep it upbeat and positive.” The album plays out as a celebration of an already welllived life and an awareness of much, much more than the six-inch screen of a smart phone around which most kids’ lives at that age revolve. “Be who you wanna be,” “Just live your life and be free,” and “Love is the key to livin’ free,” are just a sampling of their quintessentially reggae lyrics, along with the beyond-their-years pontification of “Why don’t nobody ever stop and take the time to feel the earth beneath their feet or stop and listen to the wind speak?” In the three short years since that album was released, Morgan and Skylar’s music has grown exponentially both in technique and in maturity, changed dually by their continuing life experience and the tutelage of many renown music instructors who include the legendary Bert Wills. In addition to working on their second album with the title “Natural” with all eco-friendly packaging, the two play regularly around Galveston. They play several acoustic shows, but also many that include a full band with percussionist Gerry Zaragemca from Cuba and even a local rapper named Thaddeus Richardson. Either way you hear them, their current performances showcase a depth and intensity that outshines even their album. Of course they only play music when they are not piloting boats as Licensed Captains; or pursuing their Maritime Administration degrees at Texas A&M Galveston; or launching their own non-profit organization for the preservation of surrounding wetlands and wildlife called the Wetland ERA of the Sea Fund (Equal Rights for Animals); or investing an estimated 5,000 hours of community service into volunteer efforts with Pedal for Purple, Blue Santa, Waves of Impact, and Mauli Ola. All in all, Ocean Roots defy the tired adage of “misery-begetsart,” and instead prove that positive living makes a positive impact...and really great music. For more info go to www.oceanrootsband.com, www.facebook. com/oceanrootsband, or ocean.roots@yahoo.com.

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March at The Grand 1894 Opera House

The Rob Landes Trio: “Beatles, Bacharach and Beyond”

The Grand 1894 Opera House, located at 2020 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, is one of the few remaining theatres of its era in Texas and is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. As further recognition of its importance, the citizens of Texas in 1993 through the 73rd Texas Legislature, proclaimed The Grand, “The Official Opera House of Texas.” Host to a wide variety of excellent entertainment, The Grand has a little bit of something for everyone. Performances this month include:

The Rob Landes Trio will be presenting “Beatles, Bacharach and Beyond” playing music from the ‘60s. From “Yesterday,” “A Summer Place,” and “I Can’t Stop Lovin’ You” to “This Guy’s in Love with You,” and “Stop! In the Name of Love,” the Trio will transport the audience back to one of the most tuneful eras in contemporary popular music. Tickets start at $18.

Arlo Guthrie - The 50th Anniversary of “Alice’s Restaurant”

Party on the Patio! MARCH LINE UP:

March 8 - Noise Poets CD Release Party 3-6p March 15 - Blue Louie 3-6p March 22 - Salty Dog Band 3-6p March 29 - Cisco Nonother 3-6p (409) 765-5778 815 21ST GALVESTON, TX, 77550 WWW.ALBATROSSGALVESTON.COM

Sunday, March 1st, 5pm Arlo Guthrie will present the 50th Anniversary of “Alice’s Restaurant.” This is the Grand Debut of veteran singer-songwriter Arlo Guthrie’s show that has him revisiting the classic, inspirational songs and his timeless anecdotes that are gleaned from his life of campaigning for social justice. Named after his quirky protest song, “Alice’s Restaurant” that exploded him to stardom in 1967, Guthrie was credited with helping to foster a new generation’s commitment to social awareness and activism. The concert is sponsored by AM1070. Tickets start at $25.

The Montana Repertory Theatre’s Production of “The Great Gatsby”

Saturday, March 7th, 8pm The beauty and poetry of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s powerful snapshot of the Roaring Twenties comes to life on stage for a new generation of theatergoers. The story of the young, mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby and his passion for the beautiful Daisy Buchanan explores the idealism, decadence, social upheaval, and excesses of the Jazz Age. This will be a powerful night of theatre. Tickets start at $22.

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Mary Chapin Carpenter

Friday, March 27th, 8pm Five-time Grammy Awardwinning singer-songwriter and 2012 Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Mary Chapin Carpenter makes her debut at The Grand with an intimate, acoustic performance this spring. The tour marks Carpenter’s return to singing both timeless hits and deep cuts from her expansive and beloved 13-album catalog after performing with orchestras in early 2014. Carpenter will be joined on stage by longtime friends Jon Carroll (piano) and John Doyle (guitars, bouzouki), and will feature a special opening act by Aoife O’Donovan. Tickets start at $26.

Iconic American Storyteller, Garrison Keillor

Sunday, April 12th In this solo performance, “An Evening with Garrison Keillor,” the master storyteller shares hilarious anecdotes about growing up in the Midwest, the people of Lake Wobegon and “late-life fatherhood.” Best known for his wildly popular radio show, “A Prairie Home Companion,” which attracts more than 17 million listeners each week, Keillor is Neil Berg’s “102 Years of a humorist and captivating speaker who combines Broadway” storytelling with a wonderfully dry sense of humor. Saturday, March 14th, 8pm He is also the host of the daily radio and online Neil Berg’s “102 Years of Broadway” is for you if program “The Writers Almanac,” and a bestselling you love Broadway musicals. Award-winning pro- author of many books, including “Lake Wobegon Days,” “Love Me,” and “Homegrown Democrat.” ducer, lyricist, composer, and arranger Neil Berg Keillor published “The Keillor Reader,” his first oneis joined by an ensemble of former Broadway cast volume collection of stories, essays and poems, in members who light up the stage with songs from 2014 to coincide with the 40th anniversary of “A the hit shows in which they starred, including “Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Miserables,” “Evita,” Prairie Home Companion.” “An Evening with Garrison Keillor” is spon“CATS,” “Wonderful Town,” “Jesus Christ Supersored in part by the William J. and Merri S. star,” and “Fiddler on the Roof.” You’ll relive the biggest moments from the finest shows of the cen- Edwards Charitable Gift Fund. Very limited tickets remain at $40. tury, including some of Broadway’s newest hits. For tickets go to www.thegrand.com. Tickets start at $22.

Free Music Starts in March Downtown Beginning in March, music enthusiasts looking

8 The Island Guide Magazine

Sunday, March 22nd, 4pm

for a great live music scene will enjoy Music Nite on The Strand. A dance floor and limited seating are provided so crowds can dance to the beat and rest between songs. Bands perform at Saengerfest Park, 2302 Strand, downtown, from 6-9pm. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own seating. Music Nite takes place the second Saturday of each month through October. This year’s Music Nite schedule includes: • March 14th: Almost Endless Summer (Oldies) • April 11th: Alter Ego (Contemporary Classics) • April 25th: Card-Castle Deluxe (Rock, Soul) • May 9th: Gary-Michael Dahl (R&B, Jazz) • May 23rd: dem w/ Robert Kuhn (Roots) • June 13th: The Last Dragons (80’s Radio Classics)

Movie Nite and Music Nite are sponsored by Mitchell Historic Properties and the Galveston Park Board of Trustees. For more information and weekly event updates, please visit www.facebook. com/saengerfestpark.

“For the Love of Galveston” Local’s Release a New CD

“For the Love of Galveston,” is a cheeky new, happy and upbeat song about island life in Galveston. This single is a must have for your music collection and also includes an instrumental only track. With a “Pastafarian” island sound, these songs are sure to be a hit with locals and visitors alike. Sharis Roe, who wrote the lyrics, sang lead vocal, did the engineering and CD visual design, teamed up with music writer Tony Sassi, who also did the arrangement, played bass guitar and sang background vocals. Download the songs digitally online at sharisroe.com. For more info call (303)547-2814. Photo credit of Galveston’s 61st Street Pier belongs to Sandro Giorgi.

Live Music

West End Restaurant – Larry Emerson, 7-11 Rum Shack – Playboyz, 9-1 Shearn’s Lounge – Steve Newsom, 7-11 Woody’s – Salty Dogs, 3-7 Stuttgarden – Skip Devlin, 7-11 Yaga’s – The Line Up, 10-1 Tuesday, March 10th Wednesday, March 4th Tortuga - Karaoke, 4-8 Sunday, March 15th The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, 2- Steppin Saloon – Country Karaoke, 8-12 Tremont House – Island Jazz Project, 6-10 2- Steppin Saloon – Tejano DJ, 8-12 7-11 B. Jiggers – Video DJ, 8-12 West End Restaurant – Karaoke, 7-11 Albatross – Blue Louie, 3-6 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, B. Jiggers – Karaoke, 8-12 Yaga’s – Milk & Cookies, 10-1 B Jiggers – Karaoke, 8-12 Crow’s Southwest Cantina - Troubadours 6-9 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Tom Katz, 2-6 Saturday, March 21st Open Jam, 8-12 Crow’s Southwest Cantina - Open Mic 2- Steppin Saloon – Michael Player, 9-1 Float – Beat Bodega, 8-12 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Robert Acoustic, 8-12 Galveston Farmers Market, Tommy Lewis, The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Kuhn, 4-7 Hotel Galvez – Kevin Anthony, 6-9 6-9 8am Hotel Galvez – Bryan Guevin, 6-9 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 B. Jiggers – Live Music, 9-1 Hotel Galvez – Joyce Fields 11-2pm On The Bayou – Open Mic, 9-1 Old Quarter – Open Mic, 9-1 Club 21 – DJ, 9-1 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Pleasure Pier – Jedi, 2-6 On The Bayou – Soulfiya, 9-1 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Stumps, Nonno Tony’s – Danny Kristensen, 4-8 Splash Bar – DJ Mellemel Frausto, 9-1 Splash Bar – DJ Alex, 9-1 7-10 Pleasure Pier – Toy Subs, 2-6, Shotgun Wednesday, March 11th Thursday, March 5th Hotel Galvez – Joe Sewell, 5-10 Road, 7-11 2- Steppin Saloon – Country Karaoke, 8-12 2- Steppin Saloon – Country DJ, 8-12 Longboard – SNAFU, 9-1 Rosie’s – Tom Katz, 4-8 B. Jiggers – Video DJ, 8-12 The Bar – Angelo Tolentino, 7-11 Nick’s Pool Bar – Level One Band, 6-10 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Splash Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 B. Jigger’s – The Line Up, 9-1 Old Quarter – Fiel, 9-1 Monday, March 16th 6-9 Crow`s Southwest Cantina – Open Mic 2- Steppin Saloon – Country Karaoke, 8-12 Pleasure Pier – Daze Of Night, 2-6, Epic Crow’s Southwest Cantina - Open Mic Jam, 9-1 Blaze, 7-11 B Jiggers – Video DJ, 8-12 Acoustic, 8-12 Hotel Galvez – Bryan Guevin, 6-9 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Rum Shack – The Goods, 9-1 Hotel Galvez – Kevin Anthony, 6-9 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Shearn’s Lounge – Steve Newsom, 7-11 7-11 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Old Quarter – Open Mic, 9-1 Stuttgarden Tavern – Naked Truth, 7-11 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Karaoke, 8-12 Nonno Tony’s – Mickey Hobbs, 5-8 Friday, March 6th Tremont House – Island Jazz Project, 6-10 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Monday Old Quarter – Open Mic, 9-1 2- Steppin Saloon – DJ, 9-1 West End Restaurant – Larry Emerson, 7-11 night Guys, 5-8 On The Bayou – Soulfiya, 9-1 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Pleasure Pier – Infinity’s Twinn Band, 2-6 Pleasure Pier – Lords Of Kool, 2-6 Woody’s – Joe Hell Band, 3-7 7-11 Yaga’s – The Drug Store Gypsies, 10-1 Splash Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Splash Bar – DJ Alex, 9-1 B. Jigger’s – The Line Up, 9-1 Sunday, March 22nd Tuesday, March 17th Thursday, March 12th Club 21 – SNAFU, 9-1 Steppin Saloon – Tejano DJ, 8-12 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, 22- Steppin Saloon – Country DJ, 8-12 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – MT Squared Albatross – Salty Dog Band, 3-6 7-11 The Bar – Angelo Tolentino, 7-11 Band, 9-1 B. Jigger’s – Karaoke, 8-12 B. Jiggers – Karaoke, 8-12 B. Jigger’s – The Line Up, 9-1 Hotel Galvez – Joel Sewell, 5-10 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Open Mic, 7-11 Crow’s Southwest Cantina - Troubadours Crow`s Southwest Cantina – Open Mic Jimmy’s On The Pier - Djidala Djembe Float – Soulfiya, 6-10 Open Jam, 8-12 Jam, 9-1 Drum Circle, 10-1 The Grand – The Rob Landes Trio, 4pm Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Robert Hotel Galvez – Bryan Guevin, 6-9 Longboard – Bristol Fashion, 8-12 Hotel Galvez – Joyce Fields, 11-2pm Kuhn, 4-7 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Old Quarter – Joe Ely, 9-1 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Hotel Galvez – Bryan Guevin, 6-9 Pleasure Pier – Angel Garcia Trio, 2-6 Pleasure Pier – Louis Adams Band, 6-10 Pleasure Pier – last Soul Clan, 2-6 On The Bayou – Open Mic, 9-1 The Poop Deck – Zak Perry, 9-1 Friday, March 13th Rosie’s – Tom Katz, 4-8 Pleasure Pier – Louis Adams Band, 2-6 Riondo’s – Joyce Fields, 6-9 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Splash Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Splash Bar – DJ Mellemel Frausto, 9-1 Rum Shack – Flicker System, 9-1 7-11 Woody’s – Pushwater Band, 3-7 Shearn’s Lounge – Steve Newsom, 7-11 Wednesday, March 18th B. Jigger’s – Live Music, 9-1 March 23rd Stuttgarden – Marty Monte, 7-11 2- Steppin Saloon – Country Karaoke, 8-12 Monday, Club 21 – A Sure Thing, 8-12 B. Jiggers – Video DJ, 8-12 Tremont House– Island Jazz Project, 6-10 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Live Music, 5-9 B. Jiggers – Video DJ, 8-12 Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, West End Restaurant – Karaoke, 7-11 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, The Float – Beat Bodega, 8-12 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Karaoke, 8-12 Yaga’s – The Brandon McDermott Band, 6-9 Hotel Galvez – Joel Sewell, 5-10 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Monday 10-1 Crow’s Southwest Cantina - Open Mic Jimmy’s On The Pier - Djidala Djembe night Guys, 5-8 Acoustic, 8-12 Drum Circle, 10-1 Saturday, March 7th Galveston Farmers Market - Kevin Anthony, Splash Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Longboard – Texas TNT, 8-12 2- Steppin Saloon – DJ, 9-1 Tuesday, March 24th 9-12 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, M&M – Danny Kristensen, 7-10 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Country KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 7-11 Old Quarter – Ray Bonneville, 9-1 Karaoke, 8-12 B. Jiggers – Live Music, 9-1 Pleasure Pier – The Staylyns, 2-6, 100 Miles Nonno Tony’s – Mickey Hobbs, 5-8 B Jiggers – Karaoke, 8-12 On The Bayou – Soulfiya, 9-1 Club 21 – The Line Up, 9-1 Gone, 7-11 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Robert Pleasure Pier – A Sure Thing, 2-6 Crow’s – The Relics, 9-1 The Poop Deck – Zak Perry, 9-1 Kuhn, 4-7 Splash Bar – DJ Alex, 9-1 Hotel Galvez – Joe Sewell, 5-10 Riondo’s – Joyce Fields, 6-9 Hotel Galvez – Bryan Guevin, 6-9 Longboard – Alter Ego, 8-12 Rum Shack – The Arcades, 9-1 Thursday, March 19th On The Bayou – Open Mic, 9-1 Old Quarter – Joe Ely, 9-1 Shearn’s Lounge – Steve Newsom, 7-11 2- Steppin Saloon – Country DJ, 8-12 Splash Bar – DJ Mellemel Frausto, 9-1 Pleasure Pier – Fuzzy Side Up, 2-6, Velvet Stuttgarden – Skip Devlin, 7-11 B Jigger’s – The Line Up, 9-1 Punch, 7-11 Wednesday, March 25th Tremont House– Island Jazz Project, 6-10 Crow`s Southwest Cantina – Open Mic Rum Shack – Level One, 9-1 2- Steppin Saloon – Country Karaoke, 8-12 Tortuga – Karaoke, 4-8 Jam, 9-1 Shearn’s Lounge – Steve Newsom, 7-11 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, West End Restaurant – Karaoke, 7-11 Float – That Captain, 8-12 Stuttgarden Tavern – Dark Energy, 7-11 7-11 Yaga’s – The Line Up, 10-1 Hotel Galvez – Bryan Guevin, 6-9 Tremont House– Island Jazz Project, 6-10 Crow’s Southwest Cantina - Open Mic KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Saturday, March 14th West End Restaurant – Larry Emerson, 7-11 2- Steppin Saloon – Live Music, 9-1 Acoustic, 8-12 Old Quarter – Open Mic, 9-1 Yaga’s – Live Music, 10-1 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Pleasure Pier – Play Boyz, 2-6 Old Quarter – Hayes Carll, 7-11 Sunday, March 8th The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Yaga’s – Ocean Roots, 10-1 On The Bayou – Soulfiya, 9-1 Albatross – The Noise Poets, 3-6 7-11 Friday, March 20th Splash Bar – DJ Alex, 9-1 B Jiggers – Karaoke, 8-12 Beerfoot – Van Darien, 6-10 2- Steppin Saloon – Live Music, 9-1 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Open Mic, B. Jiggers – Live Music, 9-1 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Thursday, March 26th 12-4 2- Steppin Saloon – Country DJ, 8-12 Club 21 – DJ, 9-1 7-11 Hotel Galvez – Joyce Fields 11-2pm B Jigger’s – The Line Up, 9-1 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Kevin B. Jiggers –Live Music, 9-1 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Crow`s Southwest Cantina – Open Mic Anthony Band, 7-10 Club 21 – DJ, 9-1 Nonno Tony’s – Danny Kristensen, 4-7 Jam, 9-1 The Grand – Neil Berg’s 102 Years of Crow’s – Live Music, 9-1 Pleasure Pier – Hattrick, 2-6 Hotel Galvez – Bryan Guevin, 6-9 Broadway, 8pm Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Deuval Rosie’s – Tom Katz, 4-8 KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Hotel Galvez – Joe Sewell, 5-10 Cajun Band, 7-10 Splash Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Old Quarter – Open Mic, 9-1 Longboard – The Goods, 8-12 Hotel Galvez – Joe Sewell, 5-10 Old Quarter – El Lago, Chris Lively, The Jimmy’s On The Pier - Djidala Djembe Monday, March 9th Friday, March 27th Babe, 9-1 Drum Circle, 10-1 B Jiggers – Video DJ, 8-12 2- Steppin Saloon – Live Music, 9-1 Longboard – Lady & The Tramps, 8-12 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Pleasure Pier – Crossroads, 2-6 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Riondo’s – Tommy Lewis, 6-9 Old Quarter – Jimmy Dale Gilmore, 9-1 7-11 7-11 Pleasure Pier – Jon McConnell, 2-6, Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Karaoke, 8-12 Saengerfest Park - Endless Summer, 6-9 B. Jiggers –Live Music, 9-1 Sundance Head, 7-11 Shearn’s Lounge – Steve Newsom, 7-11 Club 21 – DJ, 9-1 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Monday The Poop Deck – Zak Perry, 9-1 Stuttgarden – Northern South, 7-11 Crow’s – Live Music, 9-1 night Guys, 5-8 Riondo’s – Joyce Fields, 6-9 The Grand – Mary Chapin Carpenter, 8pm Tremont House– Island Jazz Project, 6-10 Hemingway’s – URN, 7-10 Pleasure Pier – Lords Of Kool, 2-6 Splash Bar – Karaoke, 9-1

The Island Guide Magazine

Hotel Galvez – Joe Sewell, 5-10 Jimmy’s On The Pier - Djidala Djembe Drum Circle, 10-1 Longboard – Hudu Kingz, 9-1 The Poop Deck – Zak Perry, 9-1 Riondo’s – Joyce Fields, 6-9 Rum Shack – The Goods, 9-1 Shearn’s Lounge – Steve Newsom, 7-11 Stuttgarden – Shaun Michaels, 7-11 Tortuga - Karaoke, 4-8 Tremont House – Island Jazz Project, 6-10 West End Restaurant – Karaoke, 7-11 Yaga’s – The Conquistadores, 10-1 Saturday, March 28th

2- Steppin Saloon – Live Music, 9-1 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, 6-9 B. Jiggers – 11th Hour, 9-1 Club 21 – DJ, 9-1 Crow’s – 3-Peace, 9-1 Hotel Galvez – Joe Sewell, 5-10 Longboard – Texxas Heat, 9-1 Old Quarter – Bob Livingston, 9-1 Pleasure Pier – Last Soul Clan, 5-9 Shearn’s Lounge – Steve Newsom, 7-11 Stuttgarden – Marty Monte, 7-11 Tremont House – Island Jazz Project, 6-10 West End Restaurant – Larry Emerson, 7-11 Woody’s – The Drugstore Gypsies, 6-10 Yaga’s – Roxy Roca, 10-1 Sunday, March 29th

2- Steppin Saloon – Tejano DJ, 8-12 Albatross – Cisco Nonother, 3-6 B. Jigger’s – Karaoke, 8-12 Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Open Mic, 7-11 Hotel Galvez – Joyce Fields, 11-2pm KRave Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Pleasure Pier – Radio Frequency, 1-5 Rosie’s – Tom Katz, 4-8 Splash Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Woody’s – Ben Morris & The Great American Boxcar Chorus, 3-7 Monday, March 30th

B. Jiggers – Video DJ, 8-12 The Bar at the San Luis – Angelo Tolentino, Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Karaoke, 8-12 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Monday night Guys, 5-8 Splash Bar – Karaoke, 9-1 Tuesday, March 31st Crow’s Southwest Cantina – Country Karaoke, 8-12 B Jiggers – Karaoke, 8-12 Galveston Island Brewing Co. – Robert Kuhn, 4-7 Hotel Galvez – Bryan Guevin, 6-9 On The Bayou – Open Mic, 9-1 Splash Bar – DJ Mellemel Frausto, 9-1

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Movies

set the tone for some highs and lows. The script, like life, is a roller coaster of emotions, showcased out of sequence to provide the audience with a varied perspective on how the characters got to that tearful opening scene. There is a very endearing Christmas serenade and an hysterical inner monologue during an audition (“These are the people who cast Russell Crowe in a musical…”). Yet the 90 minute film feels like an endless tirade of singing arguments and we watch as this beautifully vivacious relationship between two beautiful people turns into something really depressing over the next five years. Final Thought – Kendrick sounds great, Jordan is a bore, and the movie is one big downer. Grade C

“McFarland USA” Starring: Kevin Costner, Maria Bello and Carlos

“The Last Five Years” Starring Anna Kendrick and Jeremy Jordan

I have concluded that director Richard LaGravenese was a one hit wonder as his only reputable film was “Living Out Loud.” Since then he has delivered nothing but love story misfires, from Hilary Swank in “P. S. I Love You” to his “Twilight” ripoff “Beautiful Creatures.” “The Last Five Years” is an ambitious modern day musical, half of the two person cast sounds like perfection in the vocal arena. The technical choice to shoot the songs and record the performances live is a real testament to both Kendrick and Jordan’s stamina. However, I cannot think of a more depressing film for twenty-somethings. Not only a downer, but at times a “make-your-earsbleed, when will this end, what stage of their relationship am I in,” mess. Cathy (Kendrick) and Jamie (Jordan) starts out as the picture-perfect couple, a writer and a theater performer, dancing, singing and loving through the hard times. Their romance escalates quickly, they move in together, get married and when Jamie became very successful with his writing, Cathy still struggled at her auditions. As a result their resentment towards each other began to pile up. Cathy and Jamie met at the right place and at the right time, but as their lives changed, so did what they want, and their tolerance for each other becomes minimal. Kendrick (“Pitch Perfect,” “Into the Woods”) is a very talented artist. She can go from musical, to comedy, to drama, and back to musicals, with unprecedented ease. Kendrick, unlike most actor/singers did not just ride her one musical performance hit like so many actor/singers do, but she managed to make a career out of it. She could almost be credited at sustaining the movie musical the past few years. Kendrick is also the highlight of this film, her vocal range is far beyond that of Jordan who makes his feature film debut. His credits include the short lived television show “Smashed.” Jordan however has a Rob Lowe type of annoyance about him and drowns half the film in it. Songs like the opener “I’m Still Hurting” really

Pratts “McFarland USA” from director Niki Caro (“Whale Rider,” “North Country”), is far better than I ever expected from a Disney film. From the trailer it appears to be just another inspirational sports film, only this time centered on cross-country running, but it is far from it. “McFarland USA” is the title and the location: an unheard-of small town outside of Bakersfield, California. For at least the first 20 minutes, I could not stop comparing it to a film that debuted last month, “Spare Parts,” which is set up the same way with poor Mexican teens in need of a role model and looking for a way out. However,“McFarland USA” turns into something very different, something that had the audiences in tears and elicited universal applause not once, but four times, before the credits. Dismissed from his previous football coaching job, Jim White (Costner) finds a job as a PE teacher in McFarland USA. He uproots his family, including wife (Bello) and two daughters, to live in a town that has one Mexican restaurant and chickens for neighbors. Many of the teenagers work for their families picking vegetables before and after school, and their options are limited to working the fields or prison, which is conveniently located beside the high school. White, who the kids call “Blanco,” sees what a handful of the young students can do with their legs and motivates them to start running and to look at cross country as a way to go to college and have more options in life. We have run the gamut of sports films and every interesting true story within; in the 90’s it was African American sports films, and now it seems we get to hear the inspirational stories of Mexican students who beat all odds. What “McFarland USA” does that I have not seen in any of the previous films, is focus on the place rather than on the coach, players, or the sport itself.

It is interesting how White gets involved in the cross country sport as a way to further his career and get out of this forgotten town, but it is that very thing that ends up changing not only his life, but literally the entire town. Caro, as she has done in the past, sheds light on unlikely places like McFarland, CA, where mostly Mexican immigrants work and farm the land to make a living. It is also a place where riches of culture and family are valued more highly than wealth and ambition. As Costner continues to stake a career comeback, this performance and the film in general are far more engaging and moving than his previous “Black or White.” You get to leave this film not only having seen an incredible, triumphant story, but also with a better knowledge of Mexican heritage and the modern-day difficulties of poor, hard-working families all across America. It is also a film about perspective. When the McFarland team manages to barely place 4th place in their first race, with all the other runners hooping and hollering in celebration, Coach White turns around and sees his small 7 runners on their knees praying. Final Thought – Caro elevates this far beyond a sports film, it’s about heritage and family. Grade B+

“Focus” Starring Will Smith, Margot Robbie

This is the first film Oscar nominated, megaaction star, Will Smith had opened outside of a summer release or a holiday since he became the go to guy for blockbusters. It seems “After Earth,” co-starring his son Jaden, knocked him down a few more notches then we realized. If the release date of late February wasn’t enough of a precursor, the fact that the lead in “Focus” was offered to Ryan Gosling, Brad Pitt and Ben Affleck before Smith, seals the deal. Let’s face it though, this film is just a chance to focus on Margot Robbie’s shooting stardom, her first major role since breaking out in “The Wolf of Wall Street.” This is a con artist / heist film with no major action scenes, no real gusto, just Robbie acting like a smart girl but talking like a bimbo. Nicky (Smith) is known in certain circles as one of the best con men in the business, that’s why he has drawn the attention of newcomer Jess (Robbie) looking to get into the billion dollar industry. He runs a small, tight nit group; they hit often, and small amounts that add up to keep everyone comfortable. Nicky hits large events like the super bowl, training eye catching Jess to pick-pocket without anyone noticing, swipe credit cards and put the back without arousing suspicion. He also lets his guard down with her and is forced to walk away from a blossoming relationship. Three years later, the tables have turned and in the biggest gamble of his life, Nicky plays it close to home and Jess appears to remind him what he walked away from. In less than five minutes of the opening credits,

Smith is flaunting his impressive 46-year-old physique rolling around with the vivacious and very well accented Robbie. “Focus” kick starts the film with an eye on sexiness and maintains it throughout. What it never grasps however is a reason to keep watching. The dialogue from a script co-written/directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa isn’t sexy, smooth or edgy. The cinematography plays it safe, rarely getting the opportunity to use impressive camera movements or angles. There is a lot of back and forth dialogue trying to impress the audience with doubles crosses and a surprise ending that isn’t good enough to make the previous 90 minutes worthwhile. Has Smith lost his edge? Possibly, but while he has been preoccupied with sequels and franchises, desperately trying to convince himself he isn’t getting older, roles that might safely guide him into a respectable and sustained career are passing him by so he can film “Bad Boys 3.” “Focus” is a vehicle for Robbie and nothing more, Smith is just there to sell the tickets. Co-stars Gerald McRaney and Adrian Martinez are more entertaining than Smith. “Focus” has no heart, no pizzazz, it’s stale because con artist films are a dime a dozen and this one never has the chops to go somewhere the others haven’t gone before. Final Thought – Never comes into ‘Focus.’ Grade C

Warm Weather Brings Free Events in Downtown As the weather warms up, Galveston Island becomes home to a number of amazing, free events. Visitors and residents are invited to enjoy free movies and live concerts throughout the historic downtown. Movies begin just after dusk at Saengerfest Park, 2302 Strand, downtown. Moviegoers are encouraged to stop for a bite to eat at the wide variety of downtown restaurants before setting up a blanket or chair for a free movie under the stars. Movie Nite takes place the first Saturday of each month March through October. Upcoming movies are: • March 7th: “Captain Ron” (1992) starring Kurt Russell and Martin Short • April 4th: “Singin’ in the Rain” (1952) starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds • May 2nd: “The Goonies” (1985) starring Sean Astin and Corey Feldman • June 6th: “Jaws” (1975) starring Roy Scheider and Robert Shaw • July 4th: “Elf” (2003) starring Will Ferrell and Zoey Deschanel • August 1st: “The Outsiders” (1983) starring Tom Cruise and Matt Dillon • September 5th: “Maleficent” (2014) starring Angelina Jolie and Elle Fanning • October 3rd: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (2001) starring Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson Movie Nite is sponsored by Mitchell Historic Properties and the Galveston Park Board of Trustees. For more info and weekly event updates, please visit www.facebook.com/saengerfestpark.

Ice Cream Nachos! Need we say more?

2120 Postoffice Street | (208)602-3286

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 12-9, Friday and Saturday 12-10

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(409)256-5166

See our Menu at www.thejungle.co (yes, it’s .co)

2525 Jones Dr. In Front of Schlitterbahn 409-741-8300 / 409-770-0300 Sunday - Thursday: 7:30am to 9pm Friday & Saturday: 7:30am to 10 pm

DELIVERY available to Galveston and Jamaica Beach Residents and Businesses!

Daily Happy Hour - Open Daily 2102 26th St., Galveston, Texas (409) 539-5740

Legendary Burgers Fresh Salads Authentic Gyros Gourmet Sandwiches Hand-Dipped Ice Cream Shakes & Malts Signature Fried Catfish Fried Shrimp Chicken Fried Steak Nathan’s Famous Hotdogs Children’s Menu

Kids Eat FREE Friday Night Breakfast Buffet Every Day 7:30 to 10:30 (one free child per 1 paid adult purchase 4 to close)

located at 202 20th st. on the corner of strand st. and 20th

daily happy hour & drink specials sports bar - football and cold beer! 409.443.5533

Loved by Yelp Readers! Recommended by Trip Advisor Voted Galveston’s #1 American Food Restaurant The Island Guide Magazine

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I-45 to Houston Clo

Offatts Bayou

69th

N 1/2

re Dr.

Heards La

Airport Rd

Stewart R

d 7 Mile R

57th

Crockett Park

Calvary Cemetery

ard

alv

Randall’s Road

53rd

81st

300

Stewart

ern

Galveston College

61st

4 miles past Jamaica Beach

-B

Specs Liquor

79th

Stewar Road t

rt Road

Lake Madeline

61st

oad

Stewa

Scholes International Airport Dominique

81st

inal Term

Sydnor Bayou 99th

Hope Ro

Campeche Lake Sweetwater Lake

Bay Sho

Sydnor

Moody Gardens Golf Course

Saints Consta & Helen Orthodox Ch

To The W & SurfsideesBteEnd ach

Seawall Blvd.

The Pelican Krogers Club

Gaid

61st Fishing Pier

Every Friday Karaoke with Motown Larry in The Sandbar 7-11pm Every Saturday Larry Emerson in The Sandbar 7-11pm

http://m.galveston.com

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Advertise here for $50 a month* Sea Isle Subdivision - 4 miles west of Jamaica Beach

Send us a note at theislandguide@gmail.com or call (409)256-5166 and mention “Map Ad Special.”

GalvestonIslandGuide.com (12 month contract, paid monthly)

12 The Island Guide Magazine

Store - 409-497-4148 Restaurant - 409-497-4152 Bait Shop - 409-632-0338

Marine Fuel • General Store • Bait & Tackle Official CCA Weigh Station Free Boat Ramp Boat Storage Over the Water

GalvestonIslandGuide.com

VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER 2328 BROADWAY (BEHIND ASHTON VILLA)

(409)740-3111

7000 Seawall Blvd., Galveston See the new mobile website www.thedawnbeachcondos.com http://m.galveston.com Managed by Prestige Management Services

info@galvestoncvb.com 409.797.5144

Marketed by Prestige Properties Sales & Rentals, Galveston Island, Texas

(409)256-5166 http://m.galveston.com

409.797.5144

Intracoastal Canal

Hwy Road

19th

21th

Kempner Park

21th

alv

ty Unive rsi

adw

Beachtown Community

23rd

Bro 25th

Galveston Island Visitors Center at Ashton Villa

29th

33rd

East Beach

Stewart Beach Park Av

Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant

Pelican Club

Benno’s On the Beach

Gaido’s

2525 Jones Dr. In Front of Schlitterbahn 409-741-8300

We Deliver!

Delivery to home, work, hotel and the beach!

Extended Summer Hours: Mon-Thur 11am-9:30pm Friday 11am-10:30pm Saturday 8am-10:30pm Sunday 8am-9:30pm

Come check out our New Margaritas Breakfast served Saturday & Sunday 8-11am

Private Parking Lot

Dine In | To Go | Catering | Private Parties 1401 Market St. @ the corner of Market St. and 14th Phone: (409)762-6001 Walking distance from the Strand

Home of the $699 per lb. Super Colossal Shrimp

ard

rch

37th

ran

sid

Chu

39th Av

bor

Ferry

Downtown Galveston (see map on back)

Har

14th

aints Constantine & Helen Orthodox Church

. 168

Ferry Landing

Open Sunday-Thursday 12-9 Friday & Saturday 12-10 409.744.4237

6026 Seawall @ 61st St.

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IHou4s5tto o n

Harborside Dr.

Galveston C ruise Terminals

“Harborside” Tall Ship Elissa Texas Seaport Museum Harbor Tours Pier 21 Theatre Jet Boat Tours

“The Strand” Strand St.

Galveston Railroad Museum

Saengerfest Park

Patrick’s

2 Steppin’ Sports Bar Saloon

Catz Jewelry

Mechanic St.

Market St.

Historic Arts and Entertainment District PostOffice St.

21st

19th

International Fine Art Gallery

25th

Church St.

Jack’s Pub

20th

GALVESTON POST OFFICE

& The Strannd Downtow Area

22nd

Ball

Galveston Island Visitors Center Salvage Warehouse at Ashton Villa

23rd

GALVESTON CITY HALL

24th

Winnie

Broadway

The Cupcake

A Ship Watcher’s Paradise SHIPS, DINING, INN, THEATER, ADVENTURES

Family owned and operated for over 20 years and serving authentic homemade Mexican food, this best kept Island secret is a favorite with the locals.

A full cargo of fun and entertainment for one and all. 21st and Harborside Drive

Serving up one of the best Mexican breakfasts on the Island and offering everything from burritos to migas, chorizo or if you prefer traditional eggs, bacon and potatoes there is something for everyone. Lunch include enchiladas, combination plates, fajitas, tacos and steaks.

Pier 21 is part of Mitchell Properties Visit www.mitchellhistoricproperties.com for more information.

Open Monday-Saturday 6am-2pm 413 24th St., Galveston - (409)763-9289

14 The Island Guide Magazine

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(409)256-5166

East End

Cowgirls

There’s a new cupcake in town!

Celebrating everyday life and special events using old fashioned baking methods to provide outstanding cupcakes for your family, friends and colleagues.

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2108 Church St. #101B, Galveston, TX 77550 “TheCupcakeCowgirlsGalveston”

Books

A Potpourri of Reads By Gini Rainey “Ghost Boy: The Miraculous Escape of a Misdiagnosed Boy Trapped Inside His Own Body” By Martin Pistorius

This international best-seller is the sad yet ultimately victorious story of Martin Pistorius from South Africa, who at the age of twelve was stricken with a mysterious disease that left him a quadriplegic and unable to speak. When the doctors felt nothing more could be done for him and that he was probably severely brain damaged, he was institutionalized during the day while both of his parents worked to support their family. Martin spent 10 years either in a wheelchair or on cushions on the floor, virtually a prisoner in his own body, unable to communicate in any way and hating his existence. At the mercy of his caregivers, he was unable to move or speak, tell anyone he was hot or cold, or uncomfortable. He had no way to tell them what he wanted to eat, drink, or what he wanted to do. He was abused mentally, physically, and even sexually by his caregivers. Unable to verbalize, he was not able to tell anyone about the abuse, so it continued. Fortunately for Martin, one of his caregivers recognized a glimmer of awareness in his eyes and sensed that he was very much aware of the world outside his body. At her encouragement, Martin’s parents had him tested and discovered for themselves what Martin had known for a few years – he had a fully functioning brain. After a series of trials and errors, and with the incredible and patient assistance of his parents, Martin was able to finally communicate with those around him. Now able to communicate, Martin’s life started to become better. He got a job and because of the technological communication advances for people such as himself, he was in high demand as the voice for the voiceless at seminars and symposiums for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Perhaps the greatest moment of Martin’s life, though, was when he met Joanna, a friend of his sister who was living in London. They met online, and although they lived on different continents, they pursued a relationship with each other via SKYPE. Joanna was very kind, caring, and loving and accepted Martin exactly as he was. After 6 months of SKYPE-dating, they finally met in person and it was not too long after, they were married. Martin’s story could be anyone’s story. What happened to him could happen to anyone, but I think what makes his story so amazing is that he had the courage and determination to fight for his life while faced with seemingly insurmountable odds. It also is an amazing story of the love and dedication of his parents who fought against the odds to help their son become all that he could become. Rating: 5 of 5 Copyright 2013 – Thomas Nelson

“Working Stiff: Two Years, 262 Bodies, and the Making of a Medical Examiner” By Judy Melinek, M.D. and T. J. Mitchell

summer home. Well, of course, the unthinkable happens as they are flying over the Maldives’ twelve hundred islands – their plane crashes in shark-infested waters. They make it to shore, but soon discover that they are stranded on an uninhabited island. At first their only thought is about survival, but as the days turn to weeks, and then months, they encounter plenty of other obstacles. Violent storms, the many dangers lurking in the sea, and the possibility that You knew it was just a matter of time T.J.’s cancer could return make life in the Maldives more interesting than Anna or T. J. ever thought it could be. Oh, and then there is the fact that before I would pull out another medical forensic book, didn’t you? Well, this one T. J. is on the cusp of manhood. Sarcasm aside, this really is a lovely story about two people thrown is a bit different from my usual Patricia Cornwell fare – this one is real. “Working together who learn to depend on each other to survive. You would think Stiff” is extremely rich in medical detail, so that a romance between the two would seem very unlikely, but with the if you choose to read it, be prepared for grisly, uncensored descriptions sensitive and powerful way the story is told, it just seems to make good sense that this would happen. Not told from just one point of view, but of the cases Dr. Melinek witnessed or was involved in. from both, you are able to get inside Anna and T.J.’s heads to see their Dr. Melinek moved to New York from California to study to thought processes and how their relationship evolves. become a forensic pathologist. Based out of the medical examiner’s This is a great romance novel and an easy read. Additionally, it is office in the Bronx, she sees it all in one form or another. Of particuone of the better self-published books I have read in quite a while and I lar interest are the sections that recount her experiences in the afterwould recommend it for a great way to spend a rainy afternoon during math of both the 9/11 terrorist attack at the World Trade Center and the American Airlines Flight 587 crash in Queens. Most of us witnessed the upcoming spring. Rating: 5 of 5 these events via sterile viewings on our televisions, but Melinek takes Copyright 2012 - Plume her readers right into the nitty gritty of it and introduces them to the incredible efforts made by heroic people during the aftermath of these mass-casualty disasters. Although Melinek jumps around a bit in time, her writing is suffused with her personality, character, and her dedication to her profes“Galveston’s Maceo Family Empire: sion. There are times when you might feel that the medical personnel are a bit irreverent, but then you will realize that this is a survival tech- Bootlegging and the Balinese Room” nique for people who deal with not-so-neat death on a daily basis. by Scott Belshaw, T. Nicole Boatman, As Judy tells her husband, T. J. after he complains that listening Richard B. McCaslin to her daily stories of her work will cause him to wear gloves and a Saturday, March 14th, 2-4pm mask when he is out in public, “Staying alive is mostly common sense.” Galveston Bookshop is located at 317 23rd St., downtown There are a lot of folks out there who are doing some pretty stupid Galveston, (409)750-8200, galvestonbookshop.com. things and she’ll unabashedly tell you their stories. Certainly the stories March 15th, 1-2pm she shares can be gruesome and cause you to wonder how they will Eighteen Seventy One, 2217 Strand, downtown Galveston, die, but then she reminds the reader that a pathologist gives you the (409)497-2746, www.galvestonhistory.org/event last physical exam you will ever have. These two locations will welcome authors Scott Belshaw, T. One strong point that Judy makes is that an autopsy is really a Nicole Boatman, and Richard B. McCaslin who returns with their medical discovery. To be a pathologist you have to want to be a detective, albeit a cautious one, for the pathologist’s word and cause of death popular local book “Galveston’s Maceo Family Empire: Bootlegging and the Balinese Room.” Galvestonians can have their copies signed is the last word. Dr. Melink’s stories are sometimes funny, but they are always filled by all three authors at both book signings. At the dawn of the twentieth century, Galveston was a beacon of with the knowledge that comes from someone who truly knows her profession. This book is definitely one of the best of this genre and it is opportunity on the Texas Gulf Coast. Dubbed the “Wall Street of the extremely well written, with just the right amount of medical terminol- Southwest,” its laissez-faire reputation called those hungry for sucogy, and the translation of what could otherwise be a very grisly topic is cess to its shores. Led by brothers Salvatore and Rosario at the height of Prohibition, the Maceo family answered that call and changed the tastefully handled. Oleander City forever. Rating: 5 of 5 They built an island empire of gambling, smuggling and prostituCopyright 2014 – Scribner tion that lasted three decades. Housed in their nightclubs frequented by stars like Peggy Lee, Frank Sinatra and Duke Ellington, they “On The Island” By Tracey Garvis endeared themselves to their Galveston neighbors by sharing their profits, imitating crime syndicates in their native Sicily. Though cerGraves tainly no saints, the Maceos helped bring prosperity to a community This book could easily be renamed “The Blue Lagoon Meets the Nanny Files.” Anna Emerson, a thirty year old English teacher looking weary from a century of turmoil. Come discover the history of Galveston’s famous crime family at for adventure, has been worn down by the cold Chicago winters and these booksignings! a personal relationship that is going absolutely nowhere. She literally Award-winning author Richard B. McCaslin is a professor of hisjumps at the chance to spend the summer on a tropical island tutoring tory at the University of North Texas. Dr. Scott Belshaw is a tenuresixteen year old T. J. T. J. Callahan has no desire to go anywhere. He is a survivor of can- track assistant professor of criminal justice at the University of North cer and is ready to get back to his normal life, but his parents insist that Texas and former adjunct professor of forensic psychology at Argosy he spend his summer in the Maldives catching up on all of the school University. Nicole Boatman earned a master of science in criminal juswork he has missed while taking cancer treatments. tice with her thesis providing a historical account of Texas organized So Anna and T.J. board a private plane to fly to the Callahan’s crime which developed into this book.

Events

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Things To Do Boatless on the Island:

also rents out four jet skis, an assortment of kayaks, tubes, fishing tackle, rods and By Rob Lucey other gear. Plus, three years ago, the Being on an island, we are surrounded by water. With warm company added weather here, it can be nice to jump “in” the water, but sometimes a diesel boat for you’d rather get “on” the water. For those who don’t own a boat, all is parasailing off the not lost. You can still gain that crucial floating fix by crewing, renting beach, in the Gulf or chartering. or over the bay. Although reservaDown with FWB tions are not required, if you call ahead you can verify that the boat you Your best option for a bit of float time is what’s known as FWB – want will be fueled up and ready at the dock when you arrive. Friends with Boats. Most boat owners are looking for a good excuse If you’re looking for a quieter outing, consider joining one of the to cast off their dock lines. In fact, many feel guilty having invested so guided kayak adventure trips organized by Artist Boat (artistboat.org). much in their boats only to see them spend way too much time sitThe non-profit Eco-Art group promotes awareness and preservation of ting in the slip, on a trailer or gathering dust in a garage. the marine environment. One of its biggest initiatives involves taking So be the excuse they’re seeking. groups on four-hour paddling trips to explore the bay side of the island You probably know a boater – or more likely several. According with breaks for art lessons and ecological observations. to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Recreational Boating Survey, 13.1 percent of Texas households own a boat, and that Community Sailing Center rate is higher in coastal areas. Ask around your A brand new option on the island is Sea Scout social network and find out who those boaters are. Base Galveston (ssbgalveston.org), the towering new Once you’ve honed in on your target, simply facility at 7509 Broadway with docks on Offatts engage him or her in a conversation about their Bayou. The base boasts fleets of small Sonar and pride and joy. Boaters never tire of talking about FJ sailboats, kayaks and 40-foot schooners – and it their boats. As the conversation winds down, if isn’t just an adventure camp for Boy Scouts, Venture they haven’t already invited you for an outing, just and Sea Scouts. The base also houses the BaySmart drop the subtlety and ask, “So when are you going Marine and Maritime Education program, an Events to invite me out on your boat?” Center, and the Galveston Community Youth SailAfter you’ve scored that invite, follow a bit of ing Center, a program teaching nautical and sailing etiquette. On any boat, ask what you can bring. skills to area residents. Snacks and beverages are often welcome. If you’re The sailing center caters to high school sailing heading out on a powerboat, offer to pay for fuel. teams and to individuals and families who purchase On many boats, black soled shoes are a no-no, memberships. Membership benefits include US since they can leave marks on the deck. Ask about Sailing certified boating courses, Wednesday night this and any other considerations before you head races, open sailing Saturdays and schooner Sunfor the water. days. Members can also check out boats anytime, Understand whether you’ll be a passenger once qualified. “We have a good time sailing,” said there to enjoy the ride, or a crew member. If the Capt. Mike Janota, community sailing director. “I latter, offer to help as much as possible and request want kids to like being here. I want this to be their clear instructions. Uncleating a dock line is fairly hangout.” simple, but hauling or slacking sheets and halThe facility and many boats are also designed yards on a sailboat requires a bit of knowledge. to accommodate boaters with disabilities, so there The more knowledge you gain, the more likely it is really is no excuse not to get out on the water. The you’ll be welcomed on future outings. base hosted the US Sailing Disabled National Championships last year. Join the Club If you don’t already know a boater, consider Sail Training joining a boating organization. Most welcome nonA unique way to experience the ocean waves boat owners. in Galveston is to join the crew of the historic tall The laid back Galveston Boat Club ship Elissa, berthed at the Texas Sea Port Museum. (www.galvestonboatclub.com) was formed in 1927 The 19th century vessel is restored as a fully funcas the Galveston Outboard Motorboat Club, but tional example of the island’s maritime history, quickly grew to include sailing and rowing boaters and it requires many hands to maintain her in that as well before changing its name. In the mid-50s, condition. GBC purchased its land at 7002 Ave. O where it has Each year, dozens of volunteers sign on for built a clubhouse with a pool, playground and, of sail training. They spend many weekends bondcourse, boat storage sheds, a boat ramp and docks ing as a crew and learning knots, traditional tall ship extending into Offatts Bayou. commands, sailing skills and nautical history. The For a more formal experience, cross the Causehardy sailors who complete the course and put in a way and head to the Clear Lake area where several clubs are located, required number of maintenance hours on the ship are rewarded with including the Houston Yacht Club (www.houstonyachtclub.com) and the rare experience of sailing the square-rigged barque into the Gulf of Lakewood Yacht Club (www.lakewoodyachtclub.com), host of the Har- Mexico during her annual day sails. vest Moon Regatta sailing from Galveston to Port Aransas each OctoVisit www.galvestonhistory.org/support/volunteer to sign up for inforber. Members of these clubs are always looking for eager crew to tend mation about the next sail training class. lines or serve as ballast on the rails during regular sailing regattas. A Tour Boats, Charters and Ferries commitment to learning the ropes earns more sea time. If all else fails, one of the easiest ways to gain a few hours on the For some, the waves on the bay on a windy day are a bit extreme. water is to buy a ticket and board a tour boat. In Galveston, these If a bit of exercise on the lake is more your style, consider joining the include the Colonel paddle wheeler operating out of Moody Gardens Bay Area Rowing Club, based out of a boat house in Clear Lake Park (www.moodygardens.com/attractions/colonel_paddlewheel_boat/) and (www.barchouston.org). Or boating could be an opportunity to meet members of the oppo- the Sea Gull II providing harbor tours from the Texas Seaport Museum site sex. The Texas Association of Single Sailors (www.sailtass.com) has (www.galvestonhistory.org/attractions/maritime-heritage/seagull-ii-harbor-tour-dolphin-watch). Tours may include information about the weekly social meet-ups and frequent outings from Galveston, Kemah and Houston, as well as opportunities for sailing lessons and regattas. island’s maritime history and marine biology, as well as opportunities to spot sea birds and the ever-popular pods of dolphins. Rental Options For a closer encounter with marine life, consider chartering one of When FWB fails, you can still get onboard by spending a the nearly three dozen fishing boats from the fleet at the Galveston Yacht few dollars. The friendly folks at Caribbean Breeze Boat Rental Basin and other marinas around the island. Most offer half- and full(www.galvestonboatrentals.com) have been getting people on the water day outings for parties of up to six fishermen (www.galveston.com/fishsince the company launched in 2002. General Manager John Wilingcharters/). A small fleet of larger “party boats” carrying dozens of passon says they moved from their original location on Offatts Bayou to sengers operates out of Pier 19 (galvestonpartyboatsinc.com or the Galveston Yacht Basin, 715 N. Holiday Dr., a couple of years ago. www.galveston.com/texsuntwo/). All include gear and assistance with They now operate six pontoon boats and six traditional v-hull fishing baiting hooks, but smaller boats generally provide more individual boats ranging from small vessels suitable for a couple up to a party attention, better odds of catching fish and fewer entanglements with boat big enough for 14 people. somebody standing elbow-to-elbow next to you. “Renters either need to have some experience driving a motorboat If you want a bit more adrenaline with your harbor tour, jump or we offer a basic lesson which puts people on the water in the boat aboard Spin Time, the Sun Time Watersports jet boat blasting off from they’re going to be in for 30 minutes before they rent,” Wilson says. Pier 21 (suntimewatersports.com). “So there’s no excuse for someone not to get out on a boat.” And a final option to get out onto the water? Drive, walk or pedal Rentals start at $160 for two hours plus fuel and taxes. The train- onto the Bolivar Ferry for a free ride between the Island and Bolivar ing for novices is $50. If the thought of a crash course in boating is Peninsula (www.txdot.gov/driver/travel/ferry-schedules.html). Enjoy too daunting, the company does have licensed skippers available to views of the Bolivar Lighthouse and the cargo ships anchored and take parties out. motoring up the ship channel. Plus, you might get lucky and spot one Caribbean Breeze, which operates February through November, of those pods of dolphins. 16 The Island Guide Magazine GalvestonIslandGuide.com (409)256-5166

How to Get On the Water

“Godspell” Comes toIsland Island ETC ETC (East-End Theatre Company) is thrilled to present a

delightful new production of the smash hit musical “Godspell” from February 27th – March 28th. This celebration of friendship, loyalty and love is bursting with boundless energy and boasts a cast of ten extraordinarily talented actors all with heavenly voices. “Godspell” was originally conceived, written and directed by Michael Tebelak with new music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Grammy and Academy Award-winning composer of “Wicked”). “Godspell’s” wonderfully uplifting soundtrack is jam-packed with soul-stirring pop, folk and rock hits including “Light of the World,” “Day By Day,” and “Beautiful City.” Since first opening off-Broadway in 1971, “Godspell” has become one of the most popular and enduring musicals in modern history. A recent Broadway revival in 2011, brought an even more modern and relevant “Godspell” to life with revamped musical numbers. So, even if you’ve seen “Godspell” live on stage before, it will be a sin if you miss this production. Performances are weekends through March 28th at 8pm. There will be two Sunday matinees March 8th and March 15th at 2:30pm. All performances will be at Island ETC, 2317 Mechanic Street, downtown Galveston. Tickets may be purchased at the door and online at islandetc.org. For more information, please call ETC at (409)762-3556. “Godspell” is a family-friendly production. So, “Prepare Ye” for a fun-filled good time!

Salvation Army Style Show and Luncheon Set For March 19th The Salvation Army of Galveston County presents its Fifth Annual Style Show, Luncheon, Silent Auction and Chic Boutique from 10:30am to 2:30pm, Thursday, March 19th, at the Galveston Island Convention Center, 5600 Seawall Blvd. The program benefits many local Salvation Army programs, activities, and services. This year’s “Runway to Hope” Style Show promises to showcase the area’s top fashions while providing a great meal and tremendous bargains, according to Captain Barbara Jacobs, associate regional coordinator for The Salvation Army of Galveston County. Eight Galveston County fashion shops will showcase their unique designs. The chic boutique features gently used clothing and accessories donated by fashionable Galveston County women. According to Captain Jacobs, taking designer clothes and making them look modern and fresh is a true talent of Brenda Gutierrez, a long-time Salvation Army volunteer. The ever popular Salvation Army Houston Harbor Light Choir also will perform. The Salvation Army of Galveston County will proudly recognize long-time Galveston County resident Kris Anne Vogelpohl for 55 years of outstanding, devoted, and uncommon Salvation Army community service. Deserving people facing problems turn to The Salvation Army for well-balanced hot meals, an overnight emergency shelter, food, clothing, emergency financial assistance for rent and utility bills, case management, spiritual counseling, transportation services, on-site transitional living, off-site supportive residential housing, Christmas assistance, and other services during times of hardship, crisis, or transition. Consistent with its mission, The Salvation Army of Galveston County’s Center of Hope Social Services Center offers a variety of programs to equip, engage, and empower people of all ages and backgrounds with the skills and resources necessary to live productively and independently. Individual tickets are $100. To purchase a table, tickets or make a donation, call (409)763-1691.

It’s “Anchors Away” For Galveston Educational Foundation Cast off for a night of dancing, drinks, delectables and nautical themed fun at the 2015 Galveston ISD Educational Foundation (GEF) Spring Event. Tickets for the annual fundraiser, held at the San Luis Resort’s Galveston Island Convention Center’s Gulf View Terrace on Thursday, March 12th from 6-9pm, are $100 per person and available at www.galvestonedfoundation.org or by calling (409)766-5157. Proceeds from this event directly benefit GEF’s operations and grants program where GISD teachers, schools, students and district-wide initiatives are supported. Last year the foundation funded in excess of $155,000 in programs and projects not eligible to be funded by tax dollars. “Our annual Spring Event is our largest fundraiser of the year,” explains Erin Kay, GEF Executive Director. “The Educational Foundation’s grants program to GISD teachers couldn’t be nearly as generous without its proceeds.” The evening will feature a silent auction, live music, a photo booth, displays on projects GEF has funded throughout the year and a beer and wine bar, generously underwritten by Del Papa Distributing. Highlights of the silent auction include a Las Vegas vacation, Mountain Lake getaway, Park City escape, UT game tickets, Saltwater Grill Dinner for 10, signed sports memorabilia and much more. “GEF is continuing to build on its nautical theme with this year’s spring event, ‘Anchors Away.’ Not only is it our biggest annual event, it is an opportunity for the community to welcome our new Executive Director, Erin Kay,” states GEF President, Laura Hughes-McDermott. “The funds raised will support the foundation’s all-important mission – to enrich the educational experience at GISD.” For more information on GEF, visit galvestonedfoundation.org or call (409)766-5157.

2 Museums - 1 Location - Double the Fun! Join the scary haunted house tour in Galveston! Dr. Mayfield welcomes you to his home where you will meet ghosts and ghouls; you may encounter the strange shadow people that dwell in our attraction. BEWARE! The young doctor is quite insane so his actions can be unpredictable!

Pirates! Legends of the Gulf Coast Where you have Seas ...You Have Pirates! One of the most famous pirates to sail the Gulf made Galveston his home. Jean Lafitte, a Frenchman of questionable values, took New Orleans by storm, help defend our nation under Andrew Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s command in the Battle of New Orleans, then sailed away from the shores of Louisiana settling on a magical island.... Galveston. Come join us and learn the legends, myths and stories of the last of the Buccaneers.

1708 Tremont (23rd) 409.939.1317 www.vintagegalveston.com

Present this ad for $1 off per person. Must present coupon to receive discount. Can not be combined with any other discounts. Expires 12-31-15

409-762-6677 Downtown Galveston 23rd and Strand

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Tuesday, March 10th - Oceans of Opportunities Job Fair: Employers, Job Seekers, & Students - The City of Galveston encourages all students, job seekers, and employers to prepare for the 10th Annual Oceans of Opportunities Job Fair. Meet with representatives from the petrochemical, light industrial, information technology, law enforcement, healthcare and hospitality industries, and more. The Job Fair will be held on Tuesday, March 10th from 9am-2pm at Galveston Island Convention Center, located at 5600 Seawall Boulevard. For more info call (409)949-9055. Job seekers are encouraged to dress professionally and bring up-to-date resumes. Saturday, March 21st (10am-4pm) - Beach & Bay - Come Out and Play - 2nd Annual Beach and Bay Day offers a free event for day fees It’s time to begin planning your spring garden and there‘s no betto be waved for admission to Galveston State Park. Come join the ter place to begin than at the 27th Annual Galveston Home and Garfun these activities: Beach and Bay Explorations led by Galveston Bay den Show, March 14th – 15th, to be held at the Galveston Island ConArea Chapter Master Naturalists & FoGISP Volunteers, interpretative vention Center at the San Luis Hotel and Conference Center, 5600 By Gini Rainey nature walks, raptor Exhibition, kayak experience, learn how to cast a Seawall Boulevard, Galveston. fishing line, guided bird watching, Nature Learning Center, sea turtle Make plans to attend the ‘Best Little Home and Garden Show in It’s time to start thinking about obstacle course, craft activities live sea creature touch tank and more. Texas’ that will feature more than 100 vendors offering quality prodregistering for the third annual This is hosted by the Friends of Galveston Island State Park (FoGISP). ucts, services, and merchandise for amateur to professional home “SHP Causeway FunD Run/Walk,” Learn more at our FoGISP Facebook page and website fogisp.wordimprovement enthusiasts. Learn from Master Gardeners at one of the scheduled for Saturday, March 7th. press.com. Galveston Island State Park is located on the west end at mini seminars scheduled throughout each day. Presenting topics of The UTMB Health and the School 14901 FM 3005, Galveston. interest are Loretta Olsen, “The Fabulous Fragrant Frangipani” (pluof Health Professions will host this Saturday, March 21st - Galveston Island Market vendors will be meria); Brenda Beust Smith, “The Lazy Gardener;” Baxter Williams, event which is the primary funsetting up in Galveston’s wonderful downtown area at 22nd and “Growing Spectacular Roses on the Gulf Coast;” Gene Speller, “Grow- draiser benefiting SHP student Mechanic, near Nautical Antiques and Big House Antiques, on ing Peppers;” Jim Jahnke, “Rain Water Harvesting;” Priscilla Files, scholarships and represents a powerful investment in the future of Saturday, March 21st, 10am-4pm. The Market will feature several “Recovering a Community by Planting Trees;” Gary Parks, “The Life health care for our region and state. and Times of a Honey Bee;” Trelle Dandridge and Heather Leeson, The UTMB SHP is dedicated to educating health professions stu- of its regular vendors as well as new artisans and will be offering unique wares for both home and gifts. The Market is sponsored by the “Mutts with Manners;” and Michael and Nicole Graham, “The Garden dents to meet the health care needs of a growing state by preparing Galveston Art League, which is now in its 101st year of bringing arts Hen.” Each presentation includes a question and answer session. competent professionals to assume and direct support roles in the for all to Galveston. All art items are hand-crafted or produced by the There is always something new at the Galveston Home and Gar- provision of health services. These Respiratory Therapists, Clinical den Show. Designed to bring business and community together for Laboratory Scientists, Nutritionists, Physician Assistants, and Occupa- vendors. No third-party commercially produced items are allowed. a positive experience, its visitors will find everything from windows, tional and Physical Therapists will help to solve medical care distribu- Look for the tents along Mechanic and 22nd St., weather permitting (we pack up for deluges and very, very gusty wind). This is the first swimming pools, shutters, paint, plants, plants, and more plants along tion, access and cost problems. Market of 2015 and we’ll be back through June, third Saturday of with special show discounts on a number of products and services. The goal for this year’s run/walk is to raise a net of $80,000 every month. Artisans interested in participating can go to A highlight of the show is the Galveston Island Humane Society’s Pet $100,000 with all proceeds going to student scholarships. Adoption Center where a loving pet is waiting for an invitation from www.galvestonislandmarket.com. If you would like to register, go to www.causewayrun.com. a loving family. Don’t miss the Texas Independence Day Cake Showdown sponsored by The Kitchen Chick. An opportunity for a sneak peek is offered at “Can You Dig It,” a Preview Cocktail Party, Artist Showcase and Silent Auction, Friday, March 13th, 6-9pm. The individual ticket price of $50, will benefit the Galveston Island Humane Society and includes cocktails, a buffet, and a preview of the Home and Garden Show along with a ticket to return to the show over the weekend. Admission to the 27th Annual Galveston Home & Garden Show is $8 per person, 5 -14 years is $4, 4 and under is free. Parking is free. For more information go to www.galvestonhomeandgardenshow.com or call (409)762-3930.

Catch Spring Fever

SHP Causeway FunD Run/Walk

Celebrate Women “Texas Style:”

The 8th Annual Mind, Body, Spirit Conference to Feature “The Junk Gypsies” and Dr. Jennifer Arnold The Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce is proud to dedicate their 8th Annual Celebrating Women: Mind, Body, Spirit conference to all things Texas. Taking place at the Moody Gardens Convention Center on Friday, April 17th, the all-day event will feature keynote speakers who are Texans and popular on two major television networks. Amie and Jolie Sikes, also known as “The Junk Gypsies,” will bring their hippie, rock ‘n roll, southern-fried, gypsy-fide style to this year’s event as they chronicle their many adventures. Additionally, conference attendees will hear from Dr. Jennifer Arnold, from TLC’s “The Little Couple.” Amie and Jolie Sikes are sisters who own and operate “The Junk Gypsy Company” in Round Top, Texas, along with their parents Janie and Philip. The Sikes sisters were raised in a hard-working, down-toearth family. Through hard work at their family-owned pizza restaurant during their youth, they learned the basics of business firsthand. By mopping floors, baking pizzas and interacting with their customers and co-workers, they developed a sincere pride of knee-scrapin’ hard work. Those entrepreneurial genes laid the foundation for the road ahead. With a whole lot of faith, limitless determination and big-time dreams, Amie, Jolie, Janie and Philip created “The Junk Gypsy Company” together. They believe every man’s trash is their treasure. “The Junk Gypsies” are the self-proclaimed “Purveyors of the World’s Finest

Junk,” and they bring you goods that are everything they are: a little bit hippie, a little bit rock n’ roll, a little bit southern-fried and a whole lot of Gypsy-fide. Jennifer Arnold, MD, MSc, FAAP currently serves as the Medical Director of a state-of-the-art simulation center at Texas Children’s Hospital and is a practicing physician at the largest neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in the country. Dr. Arnold completed her undergraduate degrees in Biology and Psychology at the University of Miami in Florida, and she received her medical degree at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland in 2000. During a fellowship in neonatology at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, she obtained a Master of Science in Medical Education from the University of Pittsburgh. She is Board Certified in both Pediatric and Neonatal Medicine. She stands at just 3 foot 2 inches and has a rare type of dwarfism called Spondyloepiphyseal Dysplasia Type Strudwick (which involved more than 30 surgeries). Dr. Arnold and her husband Bill, along with their children Will and Zoey, are featured on TLC’s docu-drama, “The

Little Couple,” which follows their personal and professional lives and is now in its 7th season. She has also appeared on television programs including “Oprah,” “The Today Show,” “GMA,” “Dr. OZ,” “The Doctors,” “Wendy Williams,” “Anderson Cooper” and CNN among others. Dr. Arnold and her husband Bill report that their greatest adventure yet is parenthood. UTMB Health is partnering with the Galveston Regional Chamber again to present the most cutting edge women’s health information available. UTMB physicians will discuss health topics to educate conference attendees on how they can live a healthier lifestyle. The conference’s popular vendor market will be back and better than ever. Attendees can shop until they drop for clothing, shoes, cosmetics, jewelry, unique gifts and so much more. If your business is interested in becoming a vendor to market your products and services to conference attendees, contact the Galveston Regional Chamber today at (409)763-5326 or visit www.GalvestonChamber.com. Act quickly as space is limited. Conference attendees will experience incredible professional and social networking opportunities with more than 800 women. Furthermore, plans for this year’s event include a business development headquarters, operated by the Galveston County Small Business Development Center, where event goers can get free consulting on topics such as developing a business plan, finding financing, attracting customers, growing sales, developing foolproof procedures and making more profit. Another new addition to the Women’s Conference is the Lone Star Luxury Lounge. Conference sponsors will have admission to the lounge, and individual ticket holders can purchase admission to the lounge as an add-on to their ticket. VIPs will have exclusive access to meet and greets with “The Junk Gypsies” and Dr. Jennifer Arnold, as well as refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, a secure holding place for their purses and shopping bags from the vendor market and complimentary neck massages. This will all be available in a comfortable retreat where you can steal a few moments of relaxation at any point in the day. For more information about the event, to become a sponsor or for tickets, visit www.GalvestonChamber.com or call (409)763-5326.

original art, hand crafted books: “blue figs with tea” and “ivory slippers & vanilla truffles”

w w w . t h e h o w a r t h g a l l e r y . c o m

gallery & boutique 217 tremont galveston tx 713.550.6431 open friday 12-6, saturday 12-6, and artwalk nights 6-9

boutique items, prints, totes, tshirts, designing silk scarves (from paintings)

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March 8-9, 2014 Sat., March 8, 10 am – 6 pm Sun., March 9, 11 am – 4 pm Admission: $8/person, $5 14 years & younger, 5 & under Free The Latest in: Gardening • Home Decor • Repairs Meet: Contractors • Landscapers • Green Builders Shop for: Plants • Artwork • Home Furnishings Complimentary Parking on two levels. Enter from 57th St.

Presentations Daily!

Unique

Authentic

Eclectic

Master Gardeners & Noted Specialists: Christopher L. Wiesinger, founder of Southern Bulb Company, and author of The Bulb Hunter. Brenda Beust Smith, author and Houston Chronicle The Lazy Gardener columnist. Tom LeRoy, author and founder of Texas’ first Master Gardener Program. Jan Brick, Texas Master Gardener, author of The Island Garden. Trelle Dandridge & Heather Leeson, Mutts With Manners

New this year! Chicken Coop Enthusiasts!

Michael & Nicole Graham, founders of The Garden Hen.

2413 Market, downtown Galveston 832.689.4127

Jazz Up Your Island Style! Market 25 ABC specializes in: Antiques, Books, Collectibles, Fine Jewerly, Art, Vintage Toys, Depression Glass and Mid Century. Books range from Texas, Historical, Art, and Coffee Table books on many subjects. You can find fascinating and unusal treasures and gifts here. Include us on your shopping trip - we look forward to seeing you! We have what you didn’t know you were looking for!

Open 6 days a week. 10am-6pm, closed Wednesday. www.market25abc.com 2413 Market St., downtown (formally Vic’s)

Our 2014 Sponsors:

Galveston Island Convention Center at the San Luis Resort 5600 Seawall Boulevard • galveston.com/homeandgardenshow The Island Guide Magazine

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409.392.6272

C l a s s e s , G a l l e r y s pa c e , Pa r t i e s , S u p p l i e s , F u n

The Arts By Kimber Fountain

Tremont Gallery Galveston is located at 511 23rd Street, downtown, and is open for viewing Tuesday-Sunday from 12 noon to 5pm and is also available for private viewings any other time with an appointment. To schedule a viewing, find out about upcoming classes, or to learn more about Blue Santa and how you can contribute, call the gallery at (409)539-5667.

Joey Quiroga and The Tremont Gallery Galveston

It is a funny thing, life on an island. Perhaps there is no other environment that so markedly shapes its community than island life. In the city, the vibrant hum of chaos is intoxicating, but often polarizing. In the suburbs, individuality often acquiesces to a cookie-cutter identity more easily recognized by a number than a personality. But on an island, where the walls are made of water, where the beach is your backyard, and where the view from your front porch is a panoramic postcard of a horizon that holds the secrets of far-off places, a paradoxical freedom is found in the isolation. At the same time, the geographical disconnection produces an innate and infinite appreciation for the people and bountiful nature that share your world. Here on Galveston Island, this is most clearly evidenced by the philanthropic, close-knit community and in the wellspring of art that is naturally conjured from that solitary freedom. Joey Quiroga stands as a testament to both. A native of Galveston, Joey’s artistic accomplishments are undoubtedly influenced by Island life, and his 23 years of service in the Galveston Police Department have heightened his awareness of the needs of the local community. When he recently added ‘entrepreneur’ to his resume, the two aspects merged into a gallery of epic proportion in both creativity and stature. As an artist, Joey found his calling in the realm of photography. “My uncle was a ballplayer, then he was in the service, and when he got out he just picked up a camera and started taking photographs,” says Joey. He took immediate notice of his Uncle’s newfound interest, and soon became captivated with the medium himself. His artistic endeavors did not stop at the lens and the lighting, however. Although he does produce pure photography, he has a special talent and passion for the enhanced variety. The various effects he employs in embellishing his images can render them nearly three-dimensional, and his use of added color is at times imbued with the deft subtlety and imagination of Henri Matisse, and at others with the ferocious pallette of Andy Warhol. Seven months ago, Joey opened the doors to Tremont Gallery Galveston, not only as an outlet for his own artwork, but also for that of many, many others. What looks like a simple, one-room storefront on 23rd street is merely the entrance to the rabbit hole, as the gallery stretches over 2500 square feet, with eight rooms and a very long hallway that are all completely covered with the work of dozens of artists. Oil paintings, watercolors, metal sculpture, jewelry, and of course photography are only handful of the mediums on display. Large collectible pieces of coral, seashells, and nautical items join the artwork in offering an opportunity to own other unique pieces of the Island. Although some of the artists on display are from Houston, Austin, and surrounding areas, the majority of them are Galveston natives or current residents, and their individual works are the brushstrokes on the collective canvas presented here, one that reveals a personal, intimate, and candid view of Island life. Joey explains that at times many people view Galveston in a negative light, remembering only the allbut-abandoned version of the 1960s and 70s. “They don’t see what we

A D

Events

Affaire d’Art Fine Art Gallery

(2227 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, (409)789-0079, www.affairedart.com) Through March 30th - “Through the Lens” will be on exhibit. Affaire d’Art will be featuring works by Irene Amiet, Lauran English and Sandro Giorgi with guest artist Kristy Allmon. Also enjoy new pieces from many of our artists. Friday, March 6th (6-9pm) - Awards Reception for the Winners of “A Juried Affaire” - The winners will be receiving their awards/ribbons from Juror Michael Golden. Wine and light bites will be served. Come meet the Juror, participating artists and see the wonderful pieces that see,” he says emphatically, pointing to a stunning gulf view captured were selected to be a part of Affaire’s second juried art exhibition. by a photographer. But the local artists who use their talents to por- Sunday, March 15th (1:30-5:30pm) - Affaire d’Art’s First Street Chalk Art tray the beauty and wonder of this little Island could easily take the Class - The class will be taught by Diane Fifer of Friendswood. She has skeptic’s breath away with one glance. been teaching art classes in a full and part time capacity for over 15 All of the artists represented at Tremont Gallery Galveston also years and is the founder/owner of ArtDwellers. Participants will receive do commission work, including portraiture, family photography, and step by step instruction and create a 4x4 piece of art on the sidewalk even pet photography. The gallery will also soon begin hosting paint under the awnings. Students will need to bring a picture of a famous parties and art classes with live models. (Call the gallery for updated person or any animal. Cost is $55. All supplies included. information.) Joey is also planning upcoming shows, which will be special event exhibits with themes set apart from the rest of the gal- ArtWalk lery. “We mostly focus on local stuff, so we have thought about [pre- ArtWalk will be held throughout town, ranging in time from 4-10pm. senting] ‘A Touch of Venice,’ or ‘Scenic France,’” he explains, an idea Mostly held in the heart of the downtown historic district and now which is inspired not only by his own trips abroad to Paris, Germany, other parts of the Island, ArtWalk is a free event that takes place in and Africa, but the journeys of many of the other artists as well. The existing commercial galleries, non-profit art spaces, and what are Gallery can also be rented out for private events and mixers. called “other walls,” restaurants and retail stores. For a brochure listing Aside from all of the paint, plaster, portraits, and photographs, all participants, stop by the Galveston Arts Center at 2501 Market St., one last contribution of Joey’s deserves an incredibly special menor go online at www.galvestonartscenter.org. All events are free. Various tion. Several years ago, Joey took the reigns of the Galveston Police artworks will be for sale. 2015 ArtWalk dates are April 18th, May Department’s Blue Santa, which at the time was helping about forty 30th, July 11th, August 22nd, October 10th and November 28th. families provide gifts to kids during the Christmas season. Under Joey’s patronage, that number has escalated to almost 400. Fundrais- The Artists’ Studios & Gallery ers for Blue Santa take place year-round, and Joey donates a portion (1902 Ave. N, Galveston, (512)217-1994) of the proceeds from his gallery to the program as well. The growth This is the opening month for what is now called The Artists’ Studio of Blue Santa can also be attributed to other officers who help him & Gallery. Come in and watch as artists paint and create. Elizabeth locate families in need. “I have officers in the field, who - if they come George works in oil and has recently completed three area landacross domestic violence situations- will let me know about them and scapes. Michael Frommer has several large, recent works which are we add them to the list,” he says, adding, “I have never turned any- best described as psychedelic acrylic paintings. He just won Honorone away.” Joey also emphasizes that they give much more than toys able Mention in Works on Canvas for the Winter Juried Show at and try their best to honor families’ requests for clothing and shoes. the Galveston Art League. Martha Broday has a variety of whimsical He also works closely with the Wounded Warrior program, locating mermaid paintings done in oil. BOI art teacher Najet Ayachi works veterans with special needs, to whom he donated nearly thirty bicy- in oil and watercolor. Her subjects range from Galveston houses cles last year. Since he also works as a negotiator for GPD he has wit- to Turkish interiors. Aubrey Garcia just completed a series of eight nessed firsthand the traumas that come with PTSD, and offering the portraits of large local birds which she painted in acrylic on canvas veterans bicycles not only gives them exercise, but also provides them directly on top of photographs she took around the island. The artists with much-needed transportation to ensure that they make their offer their originals for sale, as well as some prints and greeting cards. meetings and appointments and receive their medications. Indeed, it would seem that no matter what Joey’s endeavor, the DesignWorks underlying themes of all of them center more on the uplifting of (2119 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, (409)766-7599) the Island community, than on his own accolades. With his gallery, Joey strives “to provide quality art at a reasonable cost,” and because On exhibit is “What Emerges,” porcelain sculptures by Maggie Fuller. most of the items for sale are unique and numbered, “buyers will Ed Gearke Island Gallery & Studio leave with a piece that will retain its value,” he says. But the impact of his aspiration reaches far beyond the gallery walls, and one would (2328 Strand, downtown Galveston, (409)526-2209, edgearkeart.com) be hard-pressed to put a number on it, although it most likely falls Ed Gearke Island Gallery & Studio is currently featuring an exhibition within the boundaries of “priceless.” entitled “Singularity: New Works in Pastel.”

S P E C I AL

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G. Lee Gallery

(2214 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, (409)370-7350, www.gleegallery.net) “Jane East’s Rocking It With Color” show continues through March 31st. Ms. East, a two-time Fulbright Scholar, finds inspiration from around the world. Eclectic, energetic, spiritual always vibrant in color describes Ms. East’s art. Impressionistic and abstract the show features work in pastel and oil. Ms. East will teach a mono-printmaking workshops from 1-4pm, Sunday, March 8th. Students 14 years and older are invited to attend. Paper and canvas will be supplied. Students should bring paints and everyday items for printing. Ms. East is an enthusiastic presenter. This class promises to be lots of fun. Cost is $30 per student. Reservations are required by calling (409)370-7350. Also available is new work in oil by Galvestonian Svetlana Bazaman and Bob Guicheret, pop art by Brendan Martinez, abstracts by Bud Clayton, landscapes and mixed media by Michael Basham and as always, resident artist George Douglas Lee new works.

Galveston Arts Center

(2501 Market St., downtown Galveston, (409)763-2403, www.galvestonartscenter.org) Galveston Arts Center, with Barometry Projects, presents “Urban Ecologies,” an original art exhibition that looks to the overlapping imagery of nature, construction, and destruction to consider the relationships we develop between cities and their landscapes. Considering landscape as an imagined thing, the exhibition asks how the urban experience lends itself to unique perspectives on nature and its role in daily life. Including work by Krista Birnbaum, Jorge Galvan Flores, Amy Sacksteder, Leslie Shershow, Thuy-Van Vu, and Eric Zimmerman, “Urban Ecologies” pairs artists from Houston with artists who live elsewhere, creating constellations of perspective and practice.

often overlooked qualities of plants - their ability to communicate, emote, sense, think, and live in a way that is startlingly similar to our own existence.” Artists and collaborators were asked to contribute a work that interacts, responds to, or in some way honors a plant of their choosing. The works are displayed alongside the plants that inspired them, creating an environment where plant and art can communicate and commune, as one and the same. “In addition to the visual works in the show we’ve also worked to create a sort of plant summer camp atmosphere, scheduling events that allow for the plants to be interacted with in various ways. Jonathan Booker of Da Camera’s Young Artists Program is composing a musical installation specifically for plants which will debut on Saturday, April 4th and current artist in residence, Grace Ndiritu will be conducting a shamanic plant performance. Another aspect of the show will engage the community through a plant sale/plant trade that we will stage in the gallery. Stay tuned for more information on these events, and others, which will be held this spring.” “Plant People” will be on view through May 9th.

Heard Gallery

(2217 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, (903)357-9073, www.theheardgallery.com) Gallery owner and artist Ray Heard invites everyone to stop by the gallery to see his new series, “Emerald View,” a selection of works painted of views from the Emerald by the Sea condominiums located on the East End of the island. Besides offering his paintings on the walls for purchase, Ray also is now taking requests for custom paintings. Choose from several styles including thick paint, thin paint, modern, abstract and realism. While you browse the gallery, check out the beveled mirrors, and hundreds of frames in the custom frame department. You can also get an Italian marble coaster of your favorite island landmark with over 20 to choose from.

Katrina Howarth Gallery

Galveston Art League

(215 Tremont St., downtown (2117 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, (713)550-6431, Galveston, (409)621-1008, www.thehowarthgallery.com) www.galvestonartleague.com) There’s lots going on at Howarth Barbara Rabek is the Featured Gallery! This lovely gallery is turning Artist at the Galveston Art into even more - now featuring League for the month of March. boutique items, prints, totes, t-shirts, Her work will be on display at custom designed silk scarves (from the gallery through March 29th. paintings) and Katrina’s new book, Barbara owns Latitude 29 15’, “Blue Figs with Tea” and her second Fine Art Photography. The appeal book due out for the next artwalk, of Barbara’s photos results from “Ivory Slippers & Vanilla Truffles.” the blending of the technical and Also Katrina’s is featuring a series of the artistic to create the version new portraits in oil and range from sizes 5x7, 6x6 and 8x10. of what she has seen. Her interest in photographing landscapes and birds is derived mainly from her love of the natural world. Also on MiArt display throughout the gallery are works of art by other area artists. (1327 Market St., downtown Galveston, (409)692-7833) MiArt gallery owner Michèle Grindberg is featuring her new oil paintGalveston Artist Residency ings that center around love: love for each other, our pets, nature and (2521 Mechanic St., downtown Galveston, (409)974-4446, life itself. With bright cheerful colors and lots of texture her paintings www.galvestonartistresidency.org) have a very happy feeling to them. Also on exhibit is the whimsical The Galveston Artist Residency’s spring show, “Plant People,” is a group clay work by Mary Ann Hasty - it’s just delightful. New and one of a exhibition to honor all things known, and unknown, observed, and kind sterling-silver pieces handmade by local jewelry artists are on only guessed at, about our plant comrades. This exhibition of works display as are the wonderful delicate looking scarves by textile artist by People for Plants features works and plants by Natasha Bowdoin, Amanda Jeffrey. Dean Daderko, Andrea Dezso, Tory Fair, Francesca Fuchs, Allison Hunter, Marie Leterme, Gabriel Martinez, Brian Porray, Diana Puntar, René Wiley Gallery Adam Putnam, Lisa Sanditz, and Ann Wood. “We initially decided (2128 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, (409)750-9077, to do a show about plants at GAR because gardening and caring for www.renewileyart.com) our plants is such a big part of our daily activity here, and one of Come view the various new works by local artists, René Wiley, Rachel the most genuine ways that we connect with our community and Wiley-Janota, and James Phillips, of our island birds and local harbor other artists. People who are passionate about plants are our kind of scenes in the gallery. René Wiley has also recently captured the historic people. As a basis for how we wanted to think about this show, we charm of our island’s houses, pathways, and churches from a bird’s eye looked at ‘The Secret Life of Plants’ by Peter Tompkins and Christo- view. René Wiley Gallery offers a wide variety of small, medium and pher Bird. Written in the early 1970’s, this book is the seminal text large works for any budget, including original paintings, tree sculpon the ‘physical, emotional, and spiritual relations between plants tures, textile mosaics, fine art prints, and wooden and glass bowls. and man.’ Of course, many of the experiments written about in ‘The PeckArts Secret Life of Plants’ have since been debunked, or else held in high (2208 Postoffice St., Galveston, (409)621-1500, PeckArts.com) skepticism. However, the book still holds a sort of mystical power for those of us that believe that plant life is far more than just props This month, PeckArts will be featuring “Driven to Grow” by Gabriel in mankind’s drama. For our show at GAR, we’d like to honor these Prusmack. Using aerosol paint on assembled found metal and wood,

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Gabriel has created an exciting original series of art using the automobile as a metaphor for growth. The exhibition will be on display until March 28th. Jennifer Peck will be exhibiting her current show, “Mr. Bill,” which features a limited collection of her giclée prints.

Shar Art Supply & Gallery

(2527 Market St., downtown Galveston, (409)392-6272) Shar Art Supply is now offering classes. “Jorge’s Wood-Working Class” is held Fridays, 1-2:30pm. “Shar’s Mixed Media Class” is offered Tuesdays, 1-2:30pm for $20 plus supplies. “Suzie’s Wood Burning Class” is offered Thursdays and Sundays 11am-1pm, “Chrissy’s Children’s Classes” are offered Saturdays, 4-6 year olds at 10:30-11:30am and 7-9 years old 12 noon-1pm. These classes are offered individually or as a 6-week course. Rhiannon’s Art Class is offered Mondays (Drawing) and Wednesdays (Painting) 2-4pm. “Art & Wine Fun” is offered every other week, BYOW and your friends for this fun night.

Third Coast Gallery

(2413 Mechanic St., downtown Galveston, (409)974-4661, www.thirdcoastgalleries.com) Featured at the gallery this month are select works of art by Daniel Elliott, Peggy Kingsbury and gallery owner Jack Morris. This will mark the second showing of work by Daniel in the gallery, as he was one of the artists featured in the opening year of Third Coast Gallery. This is the first time Peggy, a talented studio and plein air oil painter, has had her work featured in the gallery. Jack will be exhibiting his oil paintings, including a number of his new collection that features smaller pieces. Also on display are works by sculptor Laura Armstrong and the jewelry of Janalee Jassen.

Tremont Gallery and Pawsh Boutique (511 23rd St., downtown Galveston, (409)256-0762) A variety of unique, one-of-a-kind art is always on display in this ecelctic gallery. See our feature article, page 18.

Tyler Studio

(1201 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, (409)771-8371, www.tylerstudio.org) Victoria Narkin is the featured artist through the end of March. Victoria spent the first five years of her life in an Indonesian concentration camp. After those early years, she has lived on every inhabited continent in the world. As a child and then as an adult, Victoria focused on the expressions and emotions in the faces of people whose language she did not speak. Drop by to see this moving exhibition of her work, it touches the heart.

Vacation on Canvas

(2113 Postoffice St., downtown Galveston, (409)974-4066, vacationoncanvas.com) Gallery owner and artist Robert Peterson would like to invite everyone who has headed down to the Island this March to come visit Vacation on Canvas Gallery. Stop in the gallery to see Robert’s newest collection of original paintings which will be on display for the entire month of March. Robert has masterfully captured our island environment in brilliant vivid colors and precise detail with all the relaxing comfort that has become his trademark. Along with his original paintings, Robert offers reproductions of his artwork in canvas giclées, cards, paper prints and one of a kind ceramic tiles. Come and experience what island living is all about at the Vacation on Canvas Gallery.

Water’s Edge Studio and Gallery

(1302 21st St., (409)762-1925, www.galvestonwatersedge.com) Painter Gayle Reynolds is eager to begin painting the waters around Galveston Island, and is probably out looking at the Gulf, or at the bay, at this very moment with her camera dangling from her neck. On display this month in the gallery are a variety of paintings by Gayle as well as work by other area artists. Other artists exhibiting include Jack Farrell who welds interesting rusty sculptures mostly from car parts, Pat Moberley Moore who creates elegant ladies in clay and bronze, and Chase Jennings who creates primitive necklaces of bison beads and turquoise, animal teeth and claws. Also featured are pottery pieces by Madeleine Baker. On display in the boatroom is Rex Reynolds’ seventh dory, The West Bay Fishing Dory, along with his Adirondack tallboy chairs. Gayle’s next official ArtWalk show will not be until May 30th.

Tours

Artist Boat conducts daily tours of all different kinds, skill levels and ages. They offer a variety of kayaking adventures including East End Lagoon, Christmas Bay, Coastal Heritage Preserve (just $10 per person), Drum Bay, Quickstart Your Kayak, East End Sunset Lagoon, Galveston State Park Reserve Tour, Armand Bayou, and Deer Island. Visit artistboat.org to see details and pricing. Baywatch Dolphin Tours - Owned and operated by Galveston local Captain Michael Caldwell, Baywatch Dolphin Tours is a fun, friendly and informative romp through the waters of Galveston Harbor. The Dolphin Tour lasts just under an hour and the boat leaves every hour on By Terry Card the hour, daily, from 10am to 5pm. Adults are $10, children are $5, and infants and pets ride free. For more info, The striking feature is the ‘Billy www.baywatchdolphintours.com, (832)859-4557. Blues’ part of the business name. Ghost Tours of Galveston - Join a haunted ghost tour like It might come from the fact that no other. Galveston’s oldest and longest-running ghost the majority of the photo shoots Billy tour is owned and operated by Dash Beardsley, the known Hill does every day of the year are authority on Galveston and its hauntings. Visit the website in and around the water, which on for schedules, meeting places and to book your tours online any given day can be a vibrant blue. Department and at ghosttoursofgalvestonisland.com. Or perhaps, since the majority of his thus, making photographs are of outdoor scenes, Harbor Tours - Tours take place daily at 11:30am, 1pm, 2:30pm and his website the the deep blue sky of Texas is always 4pm. See Galveston Harbor up close aboard “Seagull II,” Texas Seaport second most there, making its presence felt, as Museum’s 50-foot twin-engine motor vessel. Tours depart from Harborpopular in the a backdrop to the primary subject. side Dr. For more info, call (409)765-8687. area, only trailing But, of course, it’s none of those. That Historic Sightseeing Shuttle Tours - Join Galveston Island Tours as Galveston.com. would be too simple. they guide you through the showcase of gorgeous buildings, churches, When you are Billy ‘Blues’ Hill gained the moniand tree sculptures that the Island has to offer. These usually last ker because he plays a mean harmonica and regularly jams with local- outdoors under a little over one hour. You are able to purchase tickets online at greatly varying and Houston-based blues bands whenever he gets the time because his www.galvestonmerchants.com and at the time of the tour. There is free time is limited by his business interests. In addition to Billy Blues Pho- conditions, trying parking at the Visitor’s Center in the back of Ashton Villa, 328 Broadway to get the perfect tography, he is an real estate agent with Galveston Island Real Estate St., Galveston, (409)765-8687. Tickets are adults $15, students and and runs the website, g-townsurf.com, which provides information and picture, anything seniors $12. can happen. In pictures of daily Galveston surf conditions for local surfers and surfers his early days, Billy had just bought a brand new Nikkon camera with a Ocean Star Oil Rig Museum - The only facility of its kind in the world, from Houston and surrounding communities. very expensive lens and was trying it out at the 39th Street jetty in less the Ocean Star Oil Rig Museum is not only three stories of dynamic Despite the many business activities he must balance on a daily than stellar conditions when he was unexpectedly knocked over by a basis, he has a laid back aspect garnered from his California surfing exhibits and information regarding the oil industry, it also serves as the days. This easy-going attitude serves him well in relating to his custom- set of waves. To keep his camera from falling into the water, he threw training grounds for many people making their entrance into the world it onto the jetty rocks, but fell heavily, cracked his elbow and broke ers in both the real estate and photography business. of offshore drilling. The Ocean Star is open daily from 10am to 5pm, his little finger. Unfortunately, his effort to save his camera failed, but Billy Hill was born in Evansville, Indiana but he grew up in the with the last ticket sold at 4pm. Self-guided tours can be accompanied Galveston’s notorious generosity toward those in unfortunate circumworld of broadcasting – his father’s business. His nomadic life began by an optional audio narrative via portable listening device. For more stances came through in the person of Alan Graves, “Christian Surfer,” info, www.oceanstaroec.com, (409)766-7827. with his father moving all over the country with ABC, but finally who organized a donation campaign. In keeping with Galveston tradibecame stationary in California for a while. While in California, Billy Tall Ship Elissa - The Elissa is the queen of the harbor, standing at 100 tion, Billy Blues Photography now donates to fundraising for Dolphin did a lot of surfing and also worked for Hobie Cat Company, glassfeet tall and 200 feet long. She is a three-masted, iron-hulled barque related charities. ing surf boards and Hobie Cats, followed by work in their research When asked about Ike, a smile lit up his face. “The only damage to built in 1877, and is one of the oldest, fully functioning sailing vessels in department. After high school, Billy needed a ‘real job’ as he put it, to support his office was that the floor was covered in melted blue ice cream from the world. For more info, www.galvestonhistory.org, (409)763-1877. his family, he became a meat cutter for Albertson’s, working his way up Ben and Jerry’s next door. Of course it was blue - what else could it be,” Texas Seaport Museum - This harborside museum tells the story of to Supervisor. Finally, he retired from Albertson’s in 2004 and moved to he laughs. Unfortunately, Ike did have a negative impact on his real Galveston’s days as one of the busiest and most influential commercial estate sales. Galveston to once again live near the sea. ports of the 19th century, which was also the era when Galveston had Out of the thousands of pictures he has taken, he has several favor- surpassed Ellis Island in the number of immigrants coming to America His business instincts kicked in when a lot of his Houston domiciled surfing buddies complained that they didn’t know what the surf ites. The first is a close-up shot of the face of an American White Pelithrough our Harbor. Special exhibits and educational programs are was going to be like in Galveston on any given day. So Billy decided to can. This became the cover picture for the April 2012 “Galveston presented, both chronologically and categorically, and include the Monthly” magazine. The second is a photo of a water snake wrapped go into the surf reporting business, starting his website g-townsurf.com. Galveston Immigration Database which stores digital records of nearly He combined it with a real estate business since he already had his real around the head and neck of a blue heron. Billy watched a fifteen min- 150,000 immigrants who arrived to the United States via Galveston. ute battle between the two before the Heron killed the snake. This pic- Texas Seaport Museum is open daily from 10am-5pm, (last ticket sold estate license. In order to graphically show the beach and surf conditions on his ture was shown by NBC, USA Today, and in places as far west as Port- at 4:30pm). Tickets are free for children under 5, $8 for youth, and $10 website, Billy bought a Sony 1.5 megapixel camera and began snapping land and as far north as Minnesota. His favorite surf shot is of Gabriel for adults. The museum also sells a Seaport Package which includes Prusmack surfing inside a curl at 37th Street off of Seawall Blvd. It is a pictures. Initially, he had only two to three pictures on his web page, entrance into the museum, onto the Elissa, and a seat on a Harbor Tour. dramatic picture that hangs on his wall. but since he is out at dawn seven days per week, every week of the The package is $20 for adults, $15 for youth and free for children under Life is good for this grandfather, who, along with his wife Joanne, year, his portfolio grew dramatically. Very quickly, his reputation and 5. For more info, www.galvestonhistory.org, (409)763-1877. his website grew to the point where he now gets 50,000-75,000 visitors have seven grandchildren and six children between them. Train Rides on The Harborside Express - The train boards every His photography studio and real estate office is located at 4408-B each and every day. Saturday, every 15 to 20 minutes with the last ride boarding at 1:45pm. Seawall Blvd. For more info, his e-mail is billy@galvestonre.com or call There soon became a demand for the pictures he displayed on The $4 ticket fee is plus the museum admission. Located at 2602 Santa (409)771-8211. his website, and thus came the birth of Billy Blues Photography. Out Fe Place, downtown, www.galvestonrrmuseum.com. of necessity, he first started taking pictures for his web page, he then found he really enjoyed the photography part and started studying and Williams Party Boats - This locally owned and operated charter service researching it in depth. He is about 91% self-taught and gets caught up Galveston Historic Tour Presents the Republic of Texas Tour - Explore has been in operation on the Island since 1946, hosting all ages and in the creativity required to capture the mood, the setting, the light, and Galveston’s association with Texas independence and the Republic. experience levels across all areas of the Gulf. They offer a range of the message. After the picture is taken, the presentation of it begins a Learn about the revolutionary men that lived in Galveston during the boats and excursions, from a few hours with the family on the creative process, working with different mediums, frames and sizes. days of the Republic. This driving tour includes the Williams home, Texsun II, to a special corporate entertainment charter. Times and An unexpected benefit of his photography is that his beach related Menard home, Childress burial site, and more. The tour is every availability of the excursions ranges, and of course weather is a factor, pictures generate real estate sales. Through his website picture preSaturday in March at 4pm, departs from Aston Villa, and is $15 per so check their website for the most current schedule. For more info, sentations, he has developed a relationship with the Galveston Parks person, reservations are required, (409)789-9911. www.charterfishinggalveston.com, (409)762-8808.

Billy Blues Photography:

Shooting the Island Everyday

Events

Welcome to Surfside, Texas! Stahlman Park Reception & Conference Center 2211 Bluewater Highway This facility is ideal for events such as family reunions, wedding receptions, class reunions as well as company meetings.

Voted Best Gulf Coast Beach Town by Readers of Gulfscapes Magazine

Boat Ramp

Surfside has completed the joint project between the Texas Parks and Wildlife and the Village of Surfside, a Boat Ramp on Thunder Drive that leads directly into the Freeport Channel. This Boat Ramp park has restrooms and fish cleaning stations and is the fastest boat ramp access to the Gulf on the Texas Coast. How to find us:

Village of Surfside Beach

1304 Monument Drive - Surfside Beach, TX 77541 979-233-1531 - www.surfsidetx.org The Island Guide Magazine

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Leading Edge 409-744-3300 3616 7 Mile Road Galveston, Texas

Call for a Free Market Analysis of your Property: 409-744-3300

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