The SCENE Magazine - April 2011 - Back to Front by The SCENE Magazine

UNION TAVERN 435 El Dorado Blvd. 281-486-6644 www.uniontavernhouston.com

^ UFC 129 Sat., April 30

< UFC 130

(Edgar vs Maynard) Sat., May 28

April 9: Highway Horror Party In Eternal Servitude of Grease & Speed! 3 BANDS!

We have three large screen

Daily Happy Hour 2-8pm FREE Billiards, Steel Tip Darts & Great Specials

Washington Wednesdays:

Tuesdays: Big Richard

50 cent drinks!

PARTY - MAY 5TH

(GSP vs Shields)

PRIVATE PARTY ROOM AVAILABLE!

GOLDEN TEE GAMES!

April 15: COME SEE MY DEAD PERSON

CRAWFISH COMING CALL FOR DETAILS

WE ARE SMOKE FREE INDOORS! HUGE OUT DOOR PATIO WITH BILLIARDS & GAMES.

AY D N HT O M NIG Y ER RY EV UST - 1 m UR 1 a D O 1 H IN pm PY E AV H WE TTISH O ! SC GS G E

AP H E

S ER V RE

UR O H Y P P M HA - 7 P 3

Patio Season Has Begun | Watch the NBA & FINAL FOUR with us!

CRAWFISH Are Here!

Introducing $4.99 Lunches & 20 NEW ITEMS ON THE MENU SUNSET SUNDAYS $19.99 all-u-can eat CRAWFISH on Sundays

2 FOR TUESDAY $2 Domestic Bigass Beer Night plus $2 Fish Tacos & LIVE MUSIC

WINGSDAYS (50 cents) $6 Pitchers & KARAOKE

FRIDAY FISH N CHIPS Live Music/DJ BRITISH & AMERICAN COMFORT FOOD, UFC, 20 BEERS ON TAP, SILVER STRIKE, GOLDEN TEE, POOL, DIGITAL JUKEBOX & MORE!

20237 Gulf Freeway 281-332-9820

DECK PARTY every Friday and Saturday!

Action-Packed APRIL

We have FINAL FOUR, Astros & NBA Playoffs

COME FOOL AROUND WITH...

ECIALS NASCAR SP Bloody Marys

$2 pints & $2

Every Sunday

Drink of the M onth:

RUM PUNCH

UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT Fri ....4/1 ....................................DJ Adrian Sat ....4/2 ....................The Bodacious TaTas Fri ....4/8 ................Brian Evans, Kyle Kenny & Ronny Dwairy Acoustic Country Sat ....4/9..........................Less Than Serious Fri ....4/15 ..............Andy & the Dreamsicles Sat ....4/16 ......................INFINITY'S TWIN Fri ....4/22 ..................................DJ Adrian Sat ....4/23 ............................Trip to Cascity Fri ....4/29 ..................................DJ Adrian Sat ....4/30 ....................................Flipside Fri ....5/6 ..................007's MONDAY Sat ....5/7 ....After Party Roxx

MAMA CASS KARAOKE: $2 Dom & $3 Import Bottles

TUESDAY

$3 U-Call-Its

(Excludes Premiums)

FRIDAY

DJ Parties

with DJ Redd Wave Drink Specials • Prizes all night long

EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH

LINDI ~ AND ~ POKER ON MYTIME MONDAYS KARAOKE ONTIME-OUT TUESDAYS • $100 PRIZEWEEKLY.

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

APRIL 9 • ’90s PARTY

ANDI

DART TOURNEYS: $3 Wells & Shot Specials ACOUSTIC NIGHT: $2 Dom & $3 Import Pints

Fidelity Maxx on April Fool’s Day ....Fri......4/1 DJ ReddWave......................................Sat ....4/2 Mary and Mystique ............................Fri......4/8 DJ ReddWave......................................Sat ....4/9 Cecil Shaw & the All Stylz Band......Sat ..4/15 DJ ReddWave......................................Fri....4/16 The Line Up ........................................Fri....4/22 Rock It Bayou ......................................Sat ..4/23 Out of Control ....................................Fri....4/29 After Party ..........................................Sat ..4/30 DJ Zeke on Cinco de Mayo ............Thurs ..5/5 Fidelity Maxx........................................Fri......5/6

ZONE 504’S

Three Palms Grill Delicious Caribbean Fare! Open late nightly.

35¢ WINGS MONDAY-FRIDAY • 5-8PM

Kemah Historical Society Landmark

504 KIPP AVE. • KEMAH • 281-538-8123

(BASED ON CROWDAPPLAUSE.9THWEEK:FINAL COMPETITION BETWEEN 8WINNERSWITHA $500 PRIZE BASED ON CROWD & JUDGES)

BIGASS BEER &WINE SPECIALS with Samantha & Jackie on WINE-DOWNWEDNESDAYS DJ KO ONTHIRSTY THURSDAYS POWER HR $2 U-CALL-IT’S ON CALLS 8-9PM ON FREAKY FRIDAYS SHAKEA LEG ON SEXY SATURDAYS JEREMY BRADSHAW 9PM-1AM ON SIMMER DOWN SUNDAYS

3202 MARINA BAY DR. • 832-864-2660 WWW.PIER27TAVERN.COM

Home of the

ge n e ll a h C r e g r u TKO B

the Bay Area? ggest burger in bi & st be e th Can YOU defeat

WED:

Fri ..4/1 ..David Grace Sat ..4/2 ......................TBA Fri ....4/8 ............Pirate Radio Sat ..4/9 ............The Line Up Wed 4/13..From Guts To Glory Fri ....4/15........Six Gun Sound Sat ..4/16 ....Hamilton Loomis Fri ....4/22..........Rockit Bayou Sat ..4/23 ............After Party Fri ....4/29 ............Loud Love Sat ..4/30 ................3 Peace

ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT CRAWFISH! $20 EVERY THURS @ 6PM

KARAOKE - - - - THURS: DJ ERIK - - - - SUN:: OBSOLETE AUGUST @ 3PM

$3.50/LB EVERY SAT & SUN

DAILY SPECIALS MON: $1.50 domestic drafts, 50¢ wings, $3 bombs, $2 wells, $4 crowns; TUES: $2 Domestic Big Ass Beer; WED: $1 drafts $2 wells, $3 bombs & karaoke; THURS: Ladies night! $3 wine, $3 house shots, $3 Jagers, $2 Mic meltdown margaritas & DJ Erik

3612 W. Main Street • League City

281-557-0000 FULL KITCHEN! Hours of Operation: M-S 11am to 2am

PALAPA NOW OPEN! PHOTO BY TACL

OPEN DAILY 11AM-2AM • Full Game Room! HAPPY HOUR: Mon-Fri 11am-7pm • Sat & Sun 11am-6pm

WE HAVE TWO 1500 SQ FT ROOMS with seating for up to 120 people in each Reserve your end-of-the-year teacher parties, graduation, birthday, engagement, wedding & private parties, rehearsal dinners, business meetings, special functions, etc.! Book your event today! (Ask for John.)

MUSIC SCHEDULE MONDAYS: SERVICE INDUSTRY NIGHT Live Music (Unplugged) 7-11pm

TUESDAYS: MAMA CASS KARAOKE Weekly karaoke contests; $100 cash prize

WEDNESDAYS: WOOD & WIND

SPECIAL GUEST

HAMILTON LOOMIS APRIL 7

w/ special guests, Open Mic

Fri ......4/1............Ray Parcee & All Stars Sat ....4/2 ............................ Rapture Thurs ..4/7 .................... Hamilton Loomis Fri......4/8 ................ Mambo Jazz Kings Sat ....4/9 .......................... 11th Hour Thurs ..4/14....................On TIme Airlines Fri ......4/15 .......................... Madigan Sat ....4/16 ..........................Madigan Thurs ..4/21 ............................ 2nd Wind Fri ......4/22 ......................Park Avenue Sat ....4/23 ..................Randy Marshall Thurs ..4/28.............................. Remedy Fri ......4/29..........................Level One Sat ....4/30 .............................. KAOS Thurs ..5/5 .......................... Ronnie Hall Fri ......5/6 ................................Slags Sat ....5/7 ...... Already Gone/Abbey Road

Our Palapa Bar is open Thurs. & Fri. evenings and ALL DAY Sat. & Sun. LIVE MUSIC ON THE PATIO EVERY WEEKEND + COLD BEER & CRAWFISH!

Come Out, Relax & have some fun! ~ SUNDAY ~

$2 Bloody Marys • $5.50 pitchers • 35¢ Wings ALL DAY! • Pool tournament @ 7pm

~ MONDAY ~

>>Happy Hour All Day<< $12 Dom Buckets / $15 Import Buckets • $1 Sliders

~ TUESDAY ~

7pm-2am $3 Wells • $5 Appetizer Specials

~ WEDNESDAY ~

>>Hump Night!<< Pool Tournament 8pm in Game Room $2 Fish Tacos & 24-oz Tecate Buckets & Bones 11-9pm

~ THURSDAY ~

>>Big Ass Beer Night<< Buy the glass & beer for $6.50; $1.50 refills with purchase of glass • $1 Sliders >>2.99/lb Crawfish All Day<<

~ FRIDAY ~

HAPPY HOUR until 9PM

~ SATURDAY ~

$5.50 Dom Pitchers • 50¢ Raw Oysters until 6pm

VALET PARKING!!

For daily updates of promos and upcoming events...

Watch for details

VISIT OUR WEBSITE!

~ Coming Soon ~

25 PLASMA SCREEN TVS TO WATCH YOUR FAVORITE GAME

1053 Marina Bay Dr. (FM 2094) • Kemah, 77565 www.jackiesbrickhouse.com • 832-864-2459

Check Us Out!

www.mytakeoutwaiter.com

Featured Live Music

RIGHT NOW - WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SATURATE By Rhonda Meredith "We're on a mission here. This band and these songs aren't just an option for us. It's all we have. We'll never quit – period."  – Saturate

Sheila Marshall Sunday, April 3

You say the word “Saturate” to area music fans and immediately the responses go like this (and in no particular order): “OMG…Saturate’s music is freakin’ awesome!” “Their hair is so cool.” (As if five guys have one head…) “Saturate is the nicest band EVER!” Since 2005, the alternative rock/metal band from Baytown has endeared themselves to local, regional and national fans by putting out quality music and being genuine and accessible. Their debut CD “Soul Element” was released independently in August 2008, and their follow up “The Point Of No Return” (iTunes, CDBaby.com) was released last year. In the midst of a very busy performance week, vocalist Jimmy Miller took some time out to speak with The SCENE about the latest events in Saturate’s world. The band has just wrapped up a video shoot for the song “Keep Digging” and Miller had this to say about it, “The concept is in the lyrics. It's very straightforward about the story being played, although there are layered meanings, the song was meant to paint a picture. We have talked about mid-April release date, but we don't want to rush anything so

T-BONE TOM’S

the Martinez Bros (Twizted Twinz) will let us know when they're done with postproduction, and we’ll go from there.”

Come See My Dead Person Friday, April 15 UNION TAVERN

According to Saturate’s official Facebook page, it looks like the band has something new and innovative in the works “on the road to our third record.” Miller elaborates, “We were approved through the team at www.kickstarter.com to begin a fundraiser of sorts where when people donate different amounts they get more and more from us in return. In effect, they're investing in us as a band, but specifically to the creation of our third record...and getting some pretty cool incentives for getting involved. Like pre-releases of our new music, signed albums and/or acoustic guitars, and a lot of other different things we thought people might like to get a hold of.” (More details coming soon.) - Continued on Page 44

Infinity’s Twin Saturday, April 16 ZONE 504

Sevendust Tuesday, April 19 SCOUT BAR

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

LIVE MUSIC

5TH L ANNUA

PARKING LOT CRAWFISH BASH SAT., APRIL 16 • 11AM-11PM (WEBSTER LOCATION ONLY!)

CRAWFISH SPECIALS ALL DAY LONG! 20760 Gulf Frwy. • Webster 281-332-7474 (in the Garden Ridge parking lot next to Hooters)

2010 Event Photos by Andy Eng

- Crawfish Are Here!!

d, Fresh Seaftoico Authen es Cajun Dish

- Fresh Oysters - Fresh Seafood - Gumbos and Bisque - Authentic Cajun Ceviche - Daily Lunch & Drink Specials THE SCENE

20760 Gulf Frwy. • Webster (Garden Ridge parking lot near Hooters • 281-332-7474)

1300 Broadway • Pearland (FM 518 where Fwood & Pland meet • 281-993-8385)

2290 I-10 • Beaumont w w w. f l o y d s s e a f o o d . c o m 55

APRIL 2011

THE SCENE: LOCAL LIVE MUSIC GUIDE THE SCENE MAGAZINE • PROVIDING THE BEST COVERAGE OF THE CLEAR LAKE/BAY AREA LIVE MUSIC SCENE Andy & The Dreamsicles @ Zone 504

Erik Garza @ Big Ben

Loose Notes by Andy Eng We left you last month suggesting easing off the gas pedal, enjoying the now, and lingering longer, but forgot to mention that Patio Season is upon us. Didn't matter ‘cuz on queue, you were all out there. You folks are good!!! :-) Crazy Alan's Swamp Shack has had a busy first year on the food and music SCENE. This month, we caught a Stryper @ Scout Bar couple of our new favorite new bands, South Coast and Moondog along with the venerable Ezra Charles at T-Bone Tom's Michael Stevens Band on the nicely lit swamp shack stage – Cameras love good lights! Bakkhus scored an over-the-top March kicking off Krewes into Kemah with Samone and The Superstars on the patio for what we call a unique recipe of zydeco, funk and fusion as zippy and spine tingling as the recipes served up by Demetrios’ great team. You might have to wait until next year to catch Samone and The Superstars, but you can always score a great lunch or dinner at Bakkhus now. Readers have been following our coverage of Magazine's CD "It Ain't That Bad" and topping it all of on the serene (Cockeyed) Seagull patio with a fine sounding release party. We wish Justin and Amber well as they explore new developments on the west coast and Madigan @ Jackie’s welcome Levi Hammer on the kit. Brickhouse

- Continued on Page 51 Magazine @ Cockeyed Seagull

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

SCENE HAPPY HOUR GUIDE

Featured Bartender

What: Too much to list!

Where: 2860 Gulf Fwy. S, Ste. A

--------------------

RIZZO

FROM

SHERLOCK’S PUB

(I-45 @ FM 646)

When: 4:30 to 7:30pm Sushi & Hibachi Daily What: $2 Dom. Beers, $2 Well Drinks, $2 House Wine, $2 Hot Sake (sm), $3 Cocktail & $4 Martini

-------------------Where: 4449 NASA Road 1 When: M- F 11 am - 7pm, & all day Sat. What: $2.99 House Margaritas

Where: 4438 Boulevard When: Saturday 7am - 4pm & All Day Sunday What: $1.75 Bloody Marys, Screwdrivers & Mimosas.

--------------------

Where: 1606 Clear Lake City Blvd. When: M-Sat 2pm to 8pm What: $5 House Wine, $5 House Martinis, $3 Import Beer & $2 Domestic Beer

--------------------

Where: 20760 Gulf Frwy When: M-F 2-6pm What: $3 Wells, Ritas & Bloody Marys. $2 Tues (all domestic & import beer); Wino-Weds (all glasses of wine are $3);

-------------------Where: 1051 Marina Bay Drive When: MonThur 11am7pm; Fri 11-9pm & Sat-Sun 11am-6pm What: $2 Domestic Pints, $3 Import Pints, $3 Wells

Where: 515 E. NASA Rd. 1 When: Mon-Wed 11-10pm; Thurs-Sat 11-7pm What: $3.95 Ritas, $1.75 Domestic Draft

--------------------

Where: 113 E. Sealy, Alvin When: Everyday 2 to 5pm (closed Sunday) What: All Beer $2, Well & Shelf $4, Premiums $6

Where: 1232 W. FM 646 When: M-F 2 to 7pm & all Sun.

Rizzo? My name is Mike, but there are a lot of those. So I go by my last name. It’s easier. Bartending stats: 3.5 years experience with two of them being at Sherlock’s. Signature drink? Hurricanes and Rum Punches What do bartenders wish customers knew? You catch more flies with honey! Appreciation goes along way.

All information in this guide is believed to be accurate as of press time.

THE SCENE

If you weren’t bartending, your “other” dream job would be? Independently wealthy and own an island!

Celebrity look-a-like? Goldberg the wrestler and Jason Statham the actor from The Transporter (I looked up both and, yeah, Rizzo does!) Right now, what’s in your car’s CD player?  Dean Martin. Love the crooners, country, heavy metal... Love it all. Life motto: Have fun because life is too short! LADIES: He’s single! Looking for a sweetheart with a bright smile to catch his eye! Must love Elvis!

APRIL 2011

- Rhonda Meredith

SCENE HAPPY HOUR GUIDE Wed.: $2 Ritas; On Sun.: $2 Well Vodka Drinks (noon to 7pm)

House Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, White Zinfandel $4; Well Cocktails $4

-------------------

-------------------Where: 101 E. Main Street, La Porte When: M - F 3 to 6pm What: Various special

--------------------

Where: 2233 E. Bayshore Drive When: Mon.- Fri.; 4pm -7pm What: 1$ Draft, $3.50 Wells, $2 Dom Longneck, $2.50 Frozen Marg.

Where: 605 A 6th Street When: M - Fri., 11am to 7pm What: $2 Dom Pints, $3 Wells, $4 Wine by glass, $4 Ouzo shots ($3 Mimosas & Bloody Marys Sunday)

Where: 707 Hwy. 146 (Kemah) When: Mon. thru Fri. 5 - 7 pm What: Call for details.

--------------------

Cock-Eyed SEAGULL Where: 1010 B NASA Rd. 1 When: Mon-Fri 2-8 pm What: $1.50 Dom Drafts, $4.50 Dom. Pitchers, $1.75 Dom. Bottles; $2.75 Well Drinks

------------------Where: 2416 Bay Area Blvd. When: M-F 3-9pm; Sat & Sun 7-9pm; What: $2 Dom drafts & wells, $2.25 select draft & select calls, $7 pitchers

-------------------

Where 1026 FM 2094 (in Clear Lake Shores) When: All Day, Every Day What: $2.75 Domestics, $3.50 Imports

--------------------

Where: 18307 Egret Bay Blvd. When/What: Scout has fresh, changing promotions. Visit ScoutBar.com to learn more.

Where: 504 Kipp Ave. (Kemah) What/When: Mon: $3 wells all night (+ Karaoke), Tues: $2 and $3 pints; Wed: $2 & $3 bottles; Thurs: $3 U-Call-Its; Fri. & Sat. $3 shot special. Sunday $2 Bloody Marys, Mimosas and $2 pints.

-------------------Mexican Restaurant

-------------------

Where: 2110 Bay Area Blvd. When: Mon.- Fri. 11am - 7pm What: $1.25 Margaritas ($.99 Margaritas All Day Sat.) ($.99 Draft Beer Every Day)

-------------------Where: 1804 W. FM 646 JAPANESE SAKE BAR When: All Day Sunday, Monday and Tuesday is Happy Day What: $2 Shots, Wells, Sake & All Beer

Where: 3202 Marina Bay Dr. When: M-F: 3pm -7pm What: $2 16oz Dom Drafts, $2 Dom. Bottles, $2 Wells, $3 House Wine

--------------------

Where: 315 Grand Ave. When: Mon-Fri 11am-7pm What: $2 Dom Draft, $2 Dom Longnecks, $2.75 Wells. (On Mon. &

Skippers

Where 20801 Gulf Freeway (Webster) When: 11am-7pm EVERYDAY! What: $1.25 Dom & $2.50 Import Drafts; $3 Wells; $3.50 House Wine; $3 Mini Marys & $3 Mini Margaritas

--------------------

Where: 805 Harris (Kemah) When: M-F 4pm-8pm What: $2 Domestic Draft $3 Import Drafts & Wells $4 Margaritas & Wine

--------------------

Where: 550 FM 1959 Dixie Farm Rd. When: E Daily until 7pm What: $2 Dom Longnecks, $1.75 Dom Draft, $2.75 Import Longnecks, $3 Wells, $2 Well Schnapps

--------------------

Where: 2555 Bay Area Blvd. When: M-F, 4 to 6:30pm What: House Martini $5, Dom Beer $2.75, Shiner Bock $3.25;

Where: 15210 Highway 3, Suite 105 When: 4 to 7pm What: $3 wells; $3 M.Lite, Bud Lite; $5 Cosmo $5 House Red or White Wine

--------------------

SCENELIVE.NET Quick React Code >>

Scan to pull up the Happy Hour Guide on your smart phone or mobile device.

All information in the SCENE Happy Hour Guide is believed to be true and accurate as of press time. But prices and special are subject to change.

TIP YOUR BARTENDER

WELL!

Because we (The SCENE) believe they are royalty. THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

THE SCENE: LOCAL LIVE MUSIC GUIDE THE SCENE MAGAZINE • PROVIDING THE BEST COVERAGE OF THE CLEAR LAKE/BAY AREA LIVE MUSIC SCENE

LOOSE NOTES: Continued from Page 54 A self proclaimed John Bonham freak with a mix of funk blends well with Marty and J.D. -- It's pretty darn good!!! Thanks to the Seagull staff for the great bucket deals and to Joey for grilling up the angus beef! Back in the Lighthouse District, Zone 504 hosted the entire Andy & The Dreamsicles turnout on the patio, and we're happy What is Hip @ T-bone Tom’s to report first hand that while winter might have been rough on the Oleanders, the ever hardy Dreamsicle followers are in fine form for another season that starts now... Drum roll please... T-Bone Tom's music patio is back in mezzo Andy & the Dreamcycles forte form and so are @ Zone 504 all of you fine fanciers of the patio life. This month, we caught O.G.R.E., What Is Hip, Wood & Wind and Ezra Charles hosting the massively successful annual Krewes into Kemah post-parade Mardi Pardi. Very well done! And with that, we certify T-Bone's patio season good to go on the live music SCENE! Come on out to the patio and reconnect!

South Coast @ T-bone Tom’s

NEW DIMENSION: We're always keen on following changes to area bands. We all agree, when it works, it's refreshing. The Bodacious Tatas scored just that when we dropped in to catch this ever-fun bunch at the Cock-Eyed Seagull. Joining Chris, Holly and Sal was James Bastida on the kit and Sherrie Sarno-Bolen on the pipes. - Continued on Page 47

Ezra Charles @ T-bone Tom’s << Zydeco Joe @ Jackie’s Brickhouse

<< ^^ Ezra Charles @ T-bone Tom’s

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

HAPPY HOUR $1.75 DOMESTICS MON-FRI 12-8 PM

281-335-5400

1010B E. NASA Parkway @ Egret Bay Blvd. APRIL 8: 60’s Dress Up Party. 1st, 2nd & 3rd place winners. Starts @ 11pm

$10 BUCKETS: MON, WED, SUN

FRI ......4/1 ............WHISKEY TANGO SAT ....4/2..............GREG WOPPLER FRI ......4/8 ..................HOURGLASS SAT ....4/9 ........THE TAILDRAGGERS FRI ......4/15 ..................MAGAZINE SAT ....4/16 ........GUACAMOLE GODS FRI ......4/22 ............GREG WOPPLER SAT ....4/23 ......THE EDGE OF TEXAS FRI ......4/29 ..................INSIDE OUT SAT ....4/30 ........MICHAEL STEVENS MON....5/4........BLEED THE MACHINE FRI ......5/6 ............THE MOONDOGS SAT ....5/7 ....GRIZZLY & LAST CIGARETTE

MON. Original band night w/ Rick TUES: $1.50 Wells All Day & All Night WED & SUN: Cliff’s Karaoke THURS: Open Mic Night (musicians get happy hour pricing)

+ FREE Bowling w/ Christina FRI: $3.50 Crowns / Christina SUNDAYS Mimosas w/Amanda CRAWFISH EVERY WEEKEND w/Stephen & Norma (when possible)

Behind the unassuming facade of a shopping center lies a beautiful gem of a wine and cocktail lounge. Enjoy fine wine, martinis & cocktails to complement your hors d’oeuvres. Discover good conversation, read a book, or tap into the free wi-fi in a cozy atmosphere featuring soft jazzy tunes. Allegria also has an Off-Premise License, so we can come to you for wine and cheese tastings, parties, corporate events and catering. BOOK YOUR

ENGAGEMENT PARTIES, SHOWERS, & BIRTHDAYS AT ALLEGRIA!

Hours of Operation Monday ........4-10pm Tues. - Fri. 4pm-12am Saturday..........4-1am Sunday ..................Closed

except for special events, parties and meetings

Email suzanne@allegriawinebar.com to receive our newsletter

Visit Allegria Wine Bar on Facebook | www.allegriawinebar.com 15210 Hwy 3 at Barringer Ln. (Webster) | 281.218.8585 THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

the scene’s martini madness Berry Crush Martini: Blue Berry Stoli Vodka with Berry Fusion Schnapps and Pineapple Juice. White Chocolate Martini: Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur, Kahlua and Pinnacle Whipped Vodka. Lemon Drop: Tuaca Italian Liqueur, fresh squeezed lemon juice, dash of sugar, garnish sugar rim.

We Love Martinis! Check out more at www.SCENElive.net

These drinks have been tastetested and approved! ~ Betsey Ennis, SCENE Editor

These martinis were prepared at:

ZONE 504 SPORTS BAR 504 Kipp Ave. • Kemah

550 FM 1959 Dixie Farm Rd

FRE’eE m Hold Poker

Houston (77034) • 281-481-2552 Wednesday ........................Acoustic Thursday ....................Mystery Darts Friday..................................Karaoke Saturday ..........................Live Music

Located between Highway 3 and I-45, just down from Ellington Field.

HAPPY HOUR! DAILY ’TIL 7PM

MON ..................$12 Domestic Buckets & $5 pitchers TUES ............................Bike Night, $2 Well Schnapps $2 Domestic Longnecks; $1 Margaritas; $4 Bombs WED..........................Ladies Night with Drink specials THURS ........................................................$4 Bombs FRI ........................................Bartender Shot Specials SAT..................................................$2 Well Schnapps SUN ......Crawfish Boil! All-Day Specials: $1.50 Bloody Marys & Screwdrivers; $2 Dom Longnecks

$2 Dom Longnecks • $1.75 Dom Draft • $3 Wells $2.75 Import Longnecks • $2 Well Schnapps

LIVE MUSIC LINE UP: APRIL 2 ................AUDIO BYTES BAND APRIL 9 ........DADDYLONGNECKS BAND APRIL 16 ..................................TBD APRIL 23 ..........WHISKEY TANGO BAND APRIL 30 ..................................TBD MAY 7 ............................“007” BAND THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

nge u o L l i a t k c o C & e Bars n i W f o r i Allegria Wine o N The Film kling od quality spar By Sue Mayfield Geiger

With an English teaching and construction background, how does a gal from Crossett, Arkansas end up owning a wine bar in Clear Lake? With vision and hard work, says Suzanne Streetman, who has been serving up quality wine and premium drinks along with a delectable bar food menu since 2008. Yet the most impressive thing about Allegria Wine & Cocktail Lounge is the atmosphere — but don’t let the strip center facade fool you. Rich terra cotta walls, cozy corner nooks, sofas and an assortment of dining tables and chairs — akin to your best friend’s living room — the dim lighting, carpeted floors and low sound-blocked ceilings are a far cry from today’s polished concrete and exposed duct work that produce a high noise level. The good sounds you will hear at Allegria are when Cindy Thomas is at the keyboard or Ronnie Stallworth is making magic on his saxophones. Bistro tables are available in front of the entrance where even Fido is welcome (pet-friendly outside). Streetman’s vision was not spontaneous. She loved to cook and entertain, but was not certain what to do with those talents. After a chance outing to a popular wine bar in Houston a few years ago, she thought, “this is it.” But it didn’t stop there. Streetman visited a multitude of wine bars and studied every aspect of decor, design, noise level, ambiance, menus, and wine selections. “I had been developing an education in wine over the years through

my many travWINE TIP: “A go that of tiny bubbles ts lo s ha e in els,” says Streetw white “You says Streetman. man who also move very fast,” ystal.” cr is in tulip shaped took wine are should serve th d awl up slowly an cr s le bb classes bebu e th If ive champagne tween trips to large, you’ve got inexpens ass, she adds. Bordeaux, Tusor an unclean gl cany, Napa and other wine-growing regions across the globe. “Every week, I do wine tastings with my wine reps,” says Streetman, who even gets visits from wine makers. Saying she is not “Napa-heavy,” she keeps about 60 wines in stock — from international to organic to kosher. Premium liquors available at Allegria are the basics: scotch, rum, gin, bourbon, vodka, tequila; also cognac, port and Irish Creme. Specialty martinis include: dark chocolate, French vanilla and the Allegria 357 (their version of the Cosmo) and a killer Negroni (Campari, sweet vermouth and gin). Allegria offers a wine tasting class every Tuesday evening (please RSVP). The classes are always different and the wine tips educational (what wine goes best with bar-b-que — or even crawfish). The cost is $20. Smoked salmon pate is on the food menu these days along with Italian flatbread pizza (order the “skinny” version if you are counting calories), cheese and antipasto platters. Saying that she changes the appetizers around often, Streetman will soon be offering a crudites plate with a creamy tarragon dip. - Continued on Page 43

Photos by Rhonda Meredith

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

THE SCENE: LOCAL LIVE MUSIC GUIDE THE SCENE MAGAZINE • PROVIDING THE BEST COVERAGE OF THE CLEAR LAKE/BAY AREA LIVE MUSIC SCENE

LOOSE NOTES: Continued from Page 51 The plan was to stay for a set and ended up hanging all night. Get the gist? Put these guys to the top of your watch list this year, we know you'll like it! Speaking of watch lists, we're delighted with the return of Melissa and Madigan. (We caught them at Jackie's Brickhouse, one of the few venues around large enough) after her winter visits to the vocal spa for a tip top stay-for-the-last-song

Erik Garza & David Wolfe @ Big Ben’ Spazmatics @ Scout Bar

Madigan @ Jackie's Brickhouse outings. Folks, you need to stay in shape to keep up, and there's no better way than shaking it up with Madigan. Maestro David's on the Ibanez never ceases to amaze and the Michael and Todd duo provide one of the best foundations going. By the way, they got one of the best local traveling light and sound teams going too.

Stryper @ Scout Bar Kemah Pan Jam Festival

Continuing the theme of “good things on the SCENE” is an evening of dancing at Amadeus with Claudio Sereni on stage. A different spectrum of music. Good times with good company? Why, of course! Speaking of.... Claudio @ Amadeus

SOMETHING FOR EVERYBODY: The last weekend in March brought the Kemah Pan Jam. Listeners received a much-welcomed measure of attitude and perspective fine tuning from Prophet Jerry Diaz and Hannah's Reef. Thank You, gentlemen! On the steel drum front, we caught The Tall & Short of It, San Jacinto College, Lone Star College, and the University of Houston's steel drum bands along with Headliners Mustafa Alexander and Freddy Harris III. - Continued on Page 46

Andy & The Dreamsicles @ Zone 504

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

THE SCENE: LOCAL LIVE MUSIC GUIDE THE SCENE MAGAZINE • PROVIDING THE BEST COVERAGE OF THE CLEAR LAKE/BAY AREA LIVE MUSIC SCENE

LOOSE NOTES: Continued from Page 47

Stryper @ Scout Bar

Steel drum arrangements Pan Jam Festival this year were very unique with the melodies taking on a broader music genres. Cheers to the U.H. Pantagonists players for getting carried away and getting the crowd's groove on! Nice job! One thing new this year was the dog show which was cool in itself! We also caught a bunch of little people whooping it up over at the amusements.

Scout Bar to wish Japan well. You could have heard a pin drop – and for the Scout Bar, it was deafening for which. MADE IN JAPAN: It’s where my new 14-70mm lens came from. It's a wide angle and with it, we embark this year to better catch more of you out on the SCENE. In the mean time, we're still working on making available many of the photos from years past and with over 10,000 images online. Pretty cool, eh? You can find them at: http://andyeng.zenfolio.com Enjoy!!!

PSA: Patio season is the kick off for festival season, and we'll be out there. Keep a copy of The SCENE Magazine handy or check out SCENELIVE.NET for a run down of the good things happening in our area. One regional event of mention is the Mean Gene Kelton Music Fest April 10th. Proceeds benefit Texas Equusearch, Harley's Angels, Houston Blues Museum and St. Judes Childrens Research Hospital in Memphis. Did you get your copy of Gene’s book, “Gigs from Hell?” Score yourself a copy on Amazon!

LIVE MUSIC!

CATCHING A WAVE: TOUR STOP CLEAR LAKE: We caught up with members of the Dickinson Deadly Thrashers (DDT) surf traveling team the other night getting the run down on a possible “where are they now” article. Some adventure would be reStryper @ Scout Bar quired so while pondering the logistics, we followed up Rhonda's SCENE music review catching Stryper at the Scout Bar on the opening leg of their international tour. We heard that night perhaps one of the best mixed large live shows of the year: Powerful, clear and crisp was the sound having us think back to the wall of sound days when we last heard live sound so big. Even bigger was the moment taken by all at the

THE SCENE

Seven days a week

Jam Session w/ The Amigos 8pm-12am, musicians welcome, $2 Vodka Well Drinks (12-7pm) Mon: Open Mic w/Lynn & Cisco NO Tues: Chad Ware Band COVER! Thurs: Benny Brasket Band

Sun:

FRI 4/1 ..........SNIT'S DOG & PONY SHOW SAT 4/2 ............................GERRY MOUTON WED 4/6 ............................GROOVE KINGS FRI 4/8 ......................JAMES REESE BAND SAT 4/9 ..........................TOMMY DARDAR WED 4/13 ............................SLIDE EFFECT FRI 4/15..................THE HOUSE ROCKERS SAT 4/16 ................................MIGHTY ORQ WED 4/20 ..........................GROOVE KINGS FRI 4/22 ............LUTHER & THE HEALERS SAT 4/23................................JJ DYNOMITE WED 4/27 ............................JAMES REESE FRI 4/29 ..................................TONY VEGA SAT 4/30..................PAUL RAMIREZ BAND

HAPPY HOUR Mon-Fri 11-7 $2.75 Wells $2 Dom. Longnecks $1.50 Dom. Draft

Mon. $2 Kamakazees Mon & Wed. $2 Rita Sun. $2 Well Vodka Drinks (12 to 7pm)

315 Grand Ave. Bacliff • 281-559-3773 APRIL 2011

The Mighty Orq Is…Well, Mighty… By Rhonda Meredith

logo has a buzzard that looks like it has been around the block a few times, but came out victorious with a (bad to the) bone in its mouth. Once again, we turn to Mighty Orq and ask about the buzzard’s significance.

So maybe the title isn’t exactly all that creative, but it is one of the better descriptive words I can use for one of Texas’ biggest bands. They were at Katie’s Bar in Bacliff last month and of course it was standing room only. If you haven’t seen the trio, you may want to keep an eye out for their gig schedule and catch them before they go back to tour Europe – for the fifth time.

“We came up with the buzzard logo as homage to our Texas roots. It's maybe a little bit ZZ Top a la the "Tejas" era and a little bit Willie Nelson a la always. He's named Don Condor. It's a combination of the 'Don' from Don Julio Tequila and 'Condor' as a bit of irony. He's a scruffy fella and not much of a condor.”

The Mighty Orq is a rock band in a generic sense. Their real sound is found within the nuances of their original songs… A little bluesy, sometimes melodic, a Southern tone and mostly seductive guitar riffs. The band sounds so good. I really didn’t want them to stop playing even though I did understand the need to down the obligatory free shot of liquor!

The Mighty Orq is a busy group. They perform over 200 shows a year. In 2003, Orq released a solo/acoustic album “Prayer Book.” And the band has released a live CD (“Ghost Train” in 2004) and two studio CD’s (“Milk Money” in 2005 and “To The Bone” in 2008.)

Bassist Terry Glen Dry saluted Katie’s Bar by offering thanks for the ability to smoke inside. The crowd loved it. Drummer Matt Johnson was situated at the back of the stage. He may have been a bit harder to see, but his ability to play was easy to notice. Rounding out the trio is guitarist and lead vocalist Mighty Orq. You know I had to ask Mighty Orq why he was called that. I told him inquiring minds wanted to know…

So, what's up for the band in 2011? Glad you asked because here is Mighty Orq’s answer:

Here is what he said, “It’s partly it's because I've been called 'Orq' for almost 20 years as a grade school nickname. Partly it's mystique to tantalize inquiring minds.” (Wink.) “The 'Mighty' came about when I played in the Tony Vega Band. Tony started introducing me as 'The Mighty' Orq, and I thought it sounded cool.” It does sound cool, but it’s on my bucket list to get his real name. (Yes, I am stubborn like that.)

“2011 is gonna be a busy year for us. We'll be heading back to Europe for our fifth tour there. Last year we recorded a live album in Germany, and it will be released on the German label Peppercake Records who also released our last album. Additionally, we'll be recording a new studio album this year, and hope to have it out by late 2011 or early 2012. Matt and I have been playing together for the last eight-and-a-half years and now with Terry in the bass chair (since Fall 2010), we feel a renewed sense of excitement about being on the road and going into the studio.” Sounds good to me! You can check out The Mighty Orq at www.mightyorq.com, on Facebook, on Reverb Nation or live in concert at Katie’s in Bacliff on Saturday, April 16.

Another unique item to note is The Mighty Orq’s band logo. The

Saturate: Continued From Page 56

Last, but not least, Miller thanks everyone who supports Saturate by spreading the music, coming to the shows, and communicating with the band members on their social sites.

And about that third album, Miller says, “I think everyone that knows our first two records has realized that our sound is all over the map sometimes, so we definitely want to reassure the fans that this new record carries that on in breaking new sonic ground for us as a band. And, compared to what we’ve done before, I think we would all agree that this time, it’s personal. Much more personal to us than anything we’ve done. It’s also the first time that the full band (all five members) is participating in the creation of every song on the disc, and it’s also looking to be our first under 10 tracks. The songs we do have us all really excited about the album, and we’ve started to bring them into the live shows.” Miller says there is nothing official as far as who Saturate may be touring with this summer (at least at press time), but it looks like they will be “hitting the road” in late June.

THE SCENE

The members of Saturate are Miller, Mike Mexas (guitar), Doyle Hingle (drums), Hector Porras (bass), and Jojo Puente (keyboards.) Support the band by becoming a fan on Facebook (SaturateMusic). Their website www.saturatemusic.com will direct you to their Reverb Nation page. For booking or more information, you can email the band at saturatemusic2005@yahoo.com.

APRIL 2011

CHRIS J. HARDY: The Man Who Sold His Rock and Roll To Have A Soul The CD will be released in late April or May and is titled “Wine Stains.” It’s a unique title and very personal to Hardy who is a wine expert. It’s not only his job, but another passion. His life memories are inter-twined with wine.

By Rhonda Meredith You know how sometimes life is full of surprises? Good ones. Well, this is one of those good surprises. For the past couple of years, Chris Hardy is the man behind the gas mask in the Clear Lake bands ERASEtheVIRUS and A Digital Death. In fact, both bands have been covered in The SCENE Magazine... Just recently Hardy announced he was leaving A.D.D. to pursue a solo career. Really? But A.D.D. just signed a record deal? Solo? I didn’t know he sang. So many questions that needed to be answered and Hardy was happy to oblige. This is cool. Keep reading. Hardy was always hamming it up as a kid. He is a little more reserved now, but not much – you know it’s the quiet ones you have to watch right? Growing up, he would play the air guitar or grab a tennis racket for make believe music and even used a flashlight for a microphone. (There have got to be photos of that somewhere.) “I always knew I wanted to play the guitar,” he says with a smile. So at 14 years old, Hardy taught himself how to play on an Ibanez guitar. He played every day and was exposed to various styles during the ten years he worked at Guitar Center. Hardy will tell you he has an appreciation for all styles of music. “They make me into the musician I am now,” he states. Eventually, he had a four-year stint with a popular local band. They broke up, became a new band and then the opportunity came up to be signed to a record label. But instead of signing, he takes a leap of faith and amicably leaves the band to pursue a solo career. Ok. Wait, what? Hardy became “the man who sold his rock and roll to finally have a soul.” “I have taken many long roads to find myself back where I started. With an acoustic guitar in one hand and microphone in the other,” Hardy says. “I am now following my heart.” He started to sing about a year and a half ago. Friends started to take notice. They provided enough support for Hardy to push himself, and he began playing open mic nights here and there while gaining the confidence he needed. His heart led him to follow his gifts and talents. Hardy just recorded a 13 track CD with Mike BBQ at Big Door Studios in Webster last month. He actually recorded 15 tracks in one day! Live in the studio with virtually no retakes. These tracks are simply amazing and Hardy is way past talented on the guitar. He is phenomenal.

THE SCENE

Some of the songs on the CD were written seven years ago and some were written just a month ago. The lyrics are a good mix of love and life. All sung with a breathy deep voice that shines with emotion as he holds the notes. It’s heart wrenching when he sings about love that has gone wrong. The music is beautiful, masterful and intricate. The guitar is as fluid as a piano! Hardy’s innovative arrangements and narrative melodic lines will have him earn the recognition as one of this area’s most prolific singer/songwriters. I am serious. The song names are so interesting too. “Dreams, Creatures and Mirrors,” “Wine Stains (So do you),” The Last Night Stand,” “There & Black Again,” “Rainbow Blues,” “Nostalgia,” “We’re All Thumbs,” “Upside of Backwards,” “Final Picture,” “Shower Song,” “Tacoma,” “Witch Me” and “Lullabye-bye.” Interesting notes: In “Shower Song,” we actually hear a shower running in the beginning and the end. It’s a short fun song that’s about being your own rock star. “Witch Me” has sensual lyrics and is probably my favorite (not because of the lyrics! Well, maybe!) Hardy sings “I can be gentle or I can be sinful, ‘witch’ me do you want tonight?” “Lullabye-bye” is an all-instrumental dream sequence. And in “Tacoma,” Hardy personifies his guitar. “She” is like the girl that never left and stuck with him in the hard times. It’s one of his oldest songs on the CD. Hardy says he chose these songs on his first solo album to “pursue a beautiful, more positive side of life and attract that karma back.” So Chris Hardy has evolved into Chris J. Hardy now. It’s going to be satisfying to be present in the beginning and watch Hardy gain more attention as an artist. It’s well deserved and as he so eloquently says, “There seems to be no stopping the power and beauty that has finally and triumphantly been revealed.” Check out www.reverbnation.com/chrisjhardy to hear the songs, bonus tracks, as well as booking information. At press time, Hardy has jumped from #86 to #10 in the Folk chart for Houston in just a few weeks. Go see why…

APRIL 2011

JACKIE'S BRICKHOUSE:

BAR, GRILL & GAMES FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY By Adam Donaghey Originally conceived as a small pizza pub, Jackie's Brickhouse opened shop in the same building as Heads N' Tails. When Heads N' Tails decided to close its doors, the Brickhouse took the plunge and acquired the entire building. Though a risky move, in just seven months Jackie's Brickhouse has revamped the entire property, creating a full service restaurant, sports bar and entertainment facility, with nightly live music, a variety of pub games and a fun, family-friendly environment. "I am so proud of my staff," proclaimed local owner Jackie Powell. "Not only have we become a team, but we are more of a family here. Most of them call me mama." A true cinderella story, Jackie's Brickhouse has overJackie's Brickhouse owner Jackie Powell come many pitfalls in its quest to become what it is today. In order to bring the restaurant up to health code satisfaction. the kitchen needed serious work, and there was difficulty obThe menu at the Brickhouse offers a mixture of American taining a liquor license; but with the support of the community style pub grub, seafood, pastas, steaks and burgers. With lots and its loyal staff, the Brickhouse maintained an optimistic attito choose from, the Brickhouse is a safe bet to please everyone tude and overcame all of its obstacles. Now the crowds of peoin your party – picky eaters and children included. Daily lunch ple grow larger every day, proving that the Brickhouse is not specials with a focus on filling, hot meals including pork chops, only the pot roast and fried catfish, fulfill the heartiest appetite. Ezra Charles performing at new restauFor dinner, pastas and burgers have been a hit with selecJackie's Brickhouse rant on the block, but a tions like the New Orleans Pasta (fettuccini tossed with shrimp, crawfish, andouille sausage, topped with a creamy Cajun Kemah insauce) and the Southwest Burger (topped with a fried egg, stitution fowhite cheddar, bacon and avocado salsa verde). cused on constant The Brickhouse daily specials are a popular treat for the improvehappy hour crowd. Everyday drink specials from 11 a.m. to 7 ment in p.m. weekdays and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends, offer $2 doorder to mestic drafts and $3 import drafts and wells. guarantee - Continued on Next Page customer

Allegria Wine & Cocktail Lounge

idly. With house music by the likes of Sinatra and a retro ambiance straight out of the 1950s and ’60s, the only thing missing is the smoke (permitted outside only).

Continued from Page 48 With a clientele base that includes vegans and those allergic to gluten, she aims to accommodate all dietary needs. Wednesday and Saturday are Bistro nights (reservations only) with a chalkboard fare (maybe osso buco or a French cassoulet). Private parties by appointment, luncheons, bridal/baby showers, corporate events, murder mystery wine dinners — even crawfish boils are held at Allegria. Friday is BYO steak night (or chicken, etc.). You grill; Streetman provides the side dishes. She also does catering. With her customer base ranging in age from their late 20s to 70s, Streetman is happy that wine bars are a growing trend. Sports bars have their niche but seemingly wine enthusiasts are establishing their own clique that is spreading rap-

THE SCENE

Allegria (Spanish and Italian for “happiness”) consumes most of Streetman’s time, but this fall, she is self-prescribing her own dose of happiness when she takes off for a long overdue trip to Paris. She will rise before the crack of dawn to peruse Les Halles de Paris, the traditional French marketplace where she will devour delicate pastries, drink strong coffee laced with cognac, buy fresh herbs and wave to the fish mongers. What could top that? Spain, she says. “That’s next on my list.” Put some happiness in your life and drop by for a glass of vino, have a beer or cocktail of your choice. Once inside you may just want to order a classic gin martini as you soak up the retro vibe and feel the magic of Allegria. Here’s looking at you, kid.

APRIL 2011

JACKIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BRICKHOUSE Continued from Opposite Page Sundays is all about the wings, with 35-cent wings, $5.50 domestic pitchers and $2 Bloody Marys; Monday happy hour is all day plus $12 domestic buckets, $15 import buckets and $1 sliders; Tuesday features $5 select appetizers; Bucket & Bones specials on Wednesdays feature a bucket of domestic beer and your choice of ribs or wings for $15.50, $2 fish tacos and $2 24- ounce Tecates; Thursday is Big Ass Beer Night, $1 sliders and crawfish for $2.99 a pound; Friday happy hour is until 9 p.m.; and Saturday features 50-cent raw oysters. With a seating capacity of roughly 530, it's no wonder there's no shortage of activities at the Brickhouse. Nightly live music features acoustic tunes on Mondays, karaoke on Tuesdays, open mic on Wednesdays, live bands Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and palapa music all day Saturday and Sunday. With a variety of live music for all ages, the whole family can join in on the fun. Some of the acts slated for April include Hamilton Loomis, the Mambo Jazz Kings, Madigan, Randy Marshall and KAOS. Head into the back gaming room for pool tournaments every Wednesday, Texas Hold'em Sundays and Mondays, shuffle board, dart boards, foosball, Golden Tee and video games. On the back patio, sip tropical drinks under the palapa or enjoy Cornhole and Bocce Ball! More than two-dozen flat screens are scattered throughout the facility, broadcasting all the major sporting events; plus a large projection screen in the new addition, enabling a quieter live music experience. The addition is also available to book private parties, and look out for a VIP balcony coming soon. When you host your event, be sure to purchase a faux brick and personalize it. The Brickhouse will mount it on the wall with other personalized bricks from patrons, special guests and celebrities. Other events you'll find at the Brickhouse include bike rallies, autograph signings, model searches, and golf cart runs like the upcoming Golf Carts of Texas 3rd Annual Poker Run on April 30 (details at golfcartsoftexas.com). If you're worried about parking, never fear, valet parking is here! The high energy and enthusiasm of the staff at Jackie's Brickhouse will ensure a worthwhile experience for every occasion. With so many different events and activities, you'll want to keep coming back. For a full menu, event calendar and details on all their specials, visit the Brickhouse on the web at jackiesbrickhouse.com.

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

SEEN BY THE SCENE

2011 St. Patrick’s Day Pub Crawl

Sponsored by Paparazzi Houston & The SCENE Magazine | www.scenelive.net for more photos

INDOOR GARDENING CENTER Indoor Lighting Nutrients • Pumps Climate Controls & Much More

www.hydroponicnation.com www.hydroponicnation.co m

No yard but want to grow your own?

No Problem! Store open 12-7pm daily or shop online 24/7.

To Houston

Almeda - Genoa I-45

Almeda Mall

To Clear Lake

Phone: 281-501-9636

9700 Almeda-Genoa, Ste 108

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

Kemah Crawfish Festival: Cont. from Page 30 Enjoy special vendors and displays of pirate and nautical wares in the company of John Lafitte, Blackbeard, Calico Jack Rackham, Henry Morgan, and Bartholomew Roberts. Kemah Ghost Tours Presents Marie Laveau’s Voodoo Garden: Explore the mysterious world of Voodoo with history’s most celebrated practitioner in an exciting and haunting display with craft vendors, palm readers, fortune tellers, and more. Festival Vendors: The festival will feature rows of vendors with the best of arts, crafts, gifts and more from Kemah and around the country. Food Vendors: Besides crawfish there will be great tasting Cajun dishes, seafood, and traditional festival food.

PBS serves to empower, engage and enrich the lives of the people of Southeast Texas. To that end, Houston PBS provides a varied schedule made up of national Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) programming; award-winning locally produced programming; college courses; and select acquired programs. Beyond broadcast, their facility is also a site for town hall meetings, national videoconference broadcasts, and a variety of innovative community educational and outreach programs. Houston PBS was America's first public television station and was one of the founding stations of the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in 1969. Houston PBS is supported primarily by viewer contributions with additional money coming from grants, special events and corporate sponsorships. The Association for Community Broadcasting (ACB) is a non-profit 501(c)3 support organization for KUHT.

Children’s Area: Attendees with children will enjoy how busy this area will keep their kids and having fun. There will also be games for all ages such as the Rock Climbing Wall and Monster Water Balls. Concert Stage: Enjoy regional Zydeco, Country and Classic Rock bands. The Greek Festival Stage: The Clear Lake Greek Festival – an area institution for 18 years – will provide traditional dance and novelty acts embracing the cultures that have helped shape the entertainment of the Texas/Louisiana Gulf Coast. SPECIAL EVENT STAGE: Gulf Greyhound Park Presents The Crawfish Races: John Paul Faour (the voice of Gulf Greyhound Park) will announce the races. Park officials will oversee the weigh-ins and make sure the Texas State and International rules of crawfish racing are followed. Crawfish Eating Contest: Contestants compete for the championship over the three days of the event. The finals will be held on Sunday, with the Crowning of the Kemah Crawfish Champion to follow. It ain't just about the eating; you have to get to the meat before you start to eat. The crawfish will be weighed before and after; the contestant with the most weight eaten in the allotted time will win. If you want to be really fast, you don't have to peel ‘em – but we recommend you do. Volunteer for the Kemah Crawfish Festival: Volunteers enjoy a great time working on a fun event with dedicated people and learning about production of a major festival. If you are interested in volunteering contact: Info@KemahCrawfishFestival.com . About Houston PBS: Houston

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APRIL 2011

SEEN BY THE SCENE

2011 KEMAH PAN JAM FESTIVAL

Photos by Betsey Ennis & Andy Eng of The SCENE

More Pan Jam photos and content can be found in Andy Engâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Loose Notes column on the flip side, pages 46 & 47.

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

THE SCENE

APRIL 2011

Weekends on the Water

A Special Guide To CLEAR LAKE & GALVESTON About the Clear Lake/Bay Area: Located midway between the skyscrapers of Houston and the beaches of Galveston, the NASA, Clear Lake/Bay Area is a unique area featuring the home of manned space flight and the third largest boating market in the nation. Although big city excitement and island beaches are each just minutes away, the Clear Lake/Bay Area has been described as the “Jewel of Houston” and is full of attractions of its own. Boating activities and water recreation provide hours of fun and relaxation in the presence of the water's natural beauty.

Surrounded by water, the land is fertile and offers lush foliage including many evergreen trees and plants. In addition to the area’s natural beauty, technology and history are woven together at the Johnson Space Center, where our nation's astronauts are trained and each manned space flight is monitored. The facility offers an official visitors center, better known as Space Center Houston. This area is also home to a surprisingly high number of quality restaurants, bars, clubs and pubs – including many overlooking the water and accessible via boat. Clear Lake is also a live music lover’s paradise with more than 40 venus offering live performances on a regular basis. The Clear Lake/Bay Area is also geared toward families with a number of amusement parks, game facilities and family festivals.

www.WeekendsontheWater.com

CHECK OUT OUR NEW ONLINE & MOBILE GUIDE!

The SCENE Magazine recently launched a new mobile and online guide to the Clear Lake, Galveston Bay and Galveston Island entertainment districts. Located at www.weekendsonthewater.com, the new guide compliments the print edition of The SCENE with content and guides on dining, nightlife, cultural arts, events, attractions, lodging and more. This new site is part of a new campaign aimed at promoting the communities along Clear Lake and Galveston Bay as a tourist destination. The SCENE is the official guide to the Clear Lake, Bay Area and Galveston Entertainment Districts. Look for our special Convention & Visitors Bureau racks in hotels and visitors centers.

Featured Attractions 1. Space Center Houston Visit Space Center Houston, the Official Visitor center of NASA's Johnson Space Center. Applaud the accomplishments of NASA and the American manned space flight program at Space Center Houston. You will relive the past achievements of the space program and witness today's history in the making. Everything you see in the facility is realistic. Space Center Houston's creators kept in close contact with NASA to ensure the most accurate experience. Each attraction is self-guided so you can spend as much time, or as little time, in each areas as desired. Most guests spend four to six hours in the Center. Winter Operating Hours: 10am-5pm (Weekdays); 10am-6pm (Weekends) Discount Tickets: Discount Space Center Houston tickets available at Bay Area Houston Visitors Center. 281-474-9700.

1601 NASA Parkway • 281-244-2100

• www.spacecenterhouston.com

2. MOODY GARDENS

6. BATTLESHIP TEXAS

10. ELLINGTON FIELD

14. HAAK VINEYARDS & WINERY

1 Hope Blvd. (Galveston)..800-582-4673

3523 Highway 134 ..........281-479-2431

510 Ellington Field ........713-847-4200

6310 Avenue T. ............409-925-1401

Photo by Linda Lapointe

3. KEMAH BOARDWALK

7. ART ALLIANCE CENTER

11. SAN JACINTO MONUMENT

15. SOUTH SHORE HARBOUR

710 4th Street ..............281-334-9880

2000 NASA Parkway ....281-335-7777

One Monument Circle ......281-479-2421

2500 South Shore Blvd.....281-334-1000

4. SCHLITTERBAHN

8. GULF GREYHOUND PARK

12. NOLAN RYAN CENTER

16. BIG LEAGUE DREAMS

2026 Lockheed ............409-770-9283

1000 FM 2004..............409-986-9500

Texas 35 and Mustang ....281-388-1134

1150 Big League Dreams...281-316-3400

5. CLEAR LAKE REC. AREAS

9. PUTT PUTT FUNHOUSE

13. ARMANDBAYOUNATURECTR.

17.THE LINKS AT GREEN CAYE

Multiple locations around Clear Lake

806 NASA Parkway ......281-333-0579

8500 Bay Area Blvd.........281-474-2551

2100 Caroline St. ........281-337-2021

42 41

40 39

13 19

26 22 20

24 14

21 17

18. OLD SEABROOK NASA Parkway @ Hwy 146 . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-474-3869 19. SYLVAN BEACH PARK on Galveston Bay in La Porte . . . . . .281-471-5020 20. HISTORIC LEAGUE CITY Main Street (FM 518). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-338-7339 21. HELEN’S GARDEN Main St. (FM518) in Historic League City . . . . .281-338-7339

36 34

28-33

22. CINEMARK 18 20915 Gulf Frwy. (Webster) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-332-0951 23. BAYBROOK MALL 500 Baybrook Mall Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-488-4620 24. MAGNOLIA GREEK GOLF COURSE 1501 Bay Area Blvd. . . . . .281-557-0555 25. BEACON LAKES GOLF CLUB 801 FM 646 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281-337-1459 26. SOUTH SHORE HARBOUR CC 4300 South Shore Harbour . . . . .281-334-0521

GALVESTON ATTRACTIONS: 27. GALVESTON EAST BEACH 1923 Boddeker Drive . . . .409-762-EAST 28. THE GRAND 1894 OPERA HOUSE 2020 Postoffice St.409-763-7173 29. THE STRAND HISTORIC DISTRICT Downtown Galveston713- 629-3700 30. MARDI GRAS MUSEUM 2309-2311 Ship’s Mechanic Row . .409-765-5930 31. MOODY MANSION MUSEUM 2618 Broadway . . . . . . . . . . . . .409-762-7668 32. BISHOP'S PALACE 1402 Broadway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .409-762-2475 33. GALVESTON RAILROAD MUSEUM 25th & Strand .409-765-5700 34. TEXAS SEAPORT MUSEUM Pier 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .409-763-1877 35. OCEAN STAR OFFSHORE MUSEUM Pier 20 . . . . .409-766-STAR 36. SEAWOLF PARK Pelican Island via Seawolf Parkway . . .409-797-5114

2 37

4 38

37. LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM 2002 Terminal Dr. . .409-740-7722 38. BUNGEE FUN 9030 Seawall Blvd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .409-740-2000

HOUSTON ATTRACTIONS: 39. HOBBY AIRPORT 7800 Airport Boulevard . . . . . . . . . . . .713-640-3000 40. RELIANT STADIUM One Reliant Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .832-667-1400 41. HOUSTON MEDICAL CENTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .713-791-8805 42. DOWNTOWN ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT . . . .713-658-8938 43. TOYOTA CENTER 1510 Polk Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .713-758-7200 44. GRB CONVENTION CTR 1001 Avenida de las Americas .713-853-8000 45. MINUTE MAID PARK 501 Crawford Street . . . . . . . . . .713-259-8500

The City of Kemah Presents

THE KEMAH CRAWFISH FESTIVAL Benefitting Houston PBS APRIL 15 - 17 • UNDER THE KEMAH BRIDGE The Kemah Crawfish Festival showcases the sights, the music, great tastes, and above all, the fun that is Kemah, the Gateway to the Bay. The three-day festival takes place under the iconic Kemah Bridge, truly welcoming all into the city. In addition to serving hot, fresh crawfish at $2 a pound throughout the festival, Kemah will also offer tasty Cajun dishes and classic festival fare. The area’s hottest Zydeco, Classic Rock, and Country bands provide the infectious rhythms where the bayou meets the bay. The boat launch will be transformed into The Pirate’s Cove with costumed performers and activities. Marie Laveau will bring Voodoo magic and mystery. Crawfish races, crawfish eating contests, and more will continue throughout the event. Performers will mingle with vendors of gifts, arts and crafts. A children’s area will provide plenty of activities and fun for kids. All of Kemah will join in presenting their city, their food, their music, and all that makes life here so special. The Kemah Crawfish Festival takes the friendly, relaxed fun and community feel of a small town fair and, like the City of Kemah, serves it up big. $2-A-Pound Crawfish: The festival is bringing in the best farm-raised crawfish the state of Louisiana has to offer at a great price when the season is really getting underway and the craving for crawfish is at its peak. The crawfish will be handled by James Wimberley, the Cajun King of Cookers. James was born and raised in southwest Louisiana in the heart of Cajun country, and has been farming and cooking crawfish and Cajun food for more than 35 years. Legend has it, he caught his first crawfish when he was only 3. From that auspicious beginning, he has grown to farming his own fresh crawfish on 2,000 acres in Eunice, Louisiana. Creating his own spicing secrets, he is in high demand as a crawfish boiler across the Gulf Coast. The secret of his spices and methods are hotly pursued by many, but never duplicated. James is one of the top boilers at Festival International in Lafayette, festivals

HWY. 146 AT 310 TEXAS AVE. • KEMAH, TX 77565

from Texas to Alabama, and has catered at the Louisiana Governor’s Mansion. The Site: The Kemah Bridge is one of the best known landmarks of the Bay Area, where Clear Lake meets Galveston Bay. A large, level, paved area that serves the public boat ramp provides a natural site for festivals. The bridge provides a striking backdrop as well as shade for patrons. The area will be decorated with nets, crab traps, boats, hawser and other nautical elements. Accommodations: Kemah hotels have offered special rates to guests attending the Kemah Crawfish Festival. Visit www.kemahcrawfishfestival.com for more information. Attractions: Pirate’s Cove: The public boat ramp will be transformed into a smugglers’ landing, the rousing haunt of freebooters of a bygone age who found hidden coves on the Texas coast. - Continued on Page 39

Festival Information: Michael R. Martin MRMartin@KemahCrawfishFestival.com

Bakkhus Taverna

Barbed Rose

Smokin’ J’s

Signature Bistro

Scout Bar

Mediterraneo

Chitsuru

Where To EAT & DRINK South Belt • Pasadena • Clear Lake • Bay Area • Galveston

Pelica n

Big Ben

Gulf of Mexico

Pier 27 Tavern

Dickinson BBQ

Harb orside

Broa dwa y

2nd

Seawall Blvd.

25th

51s t

61st

Island

Seaw olf Prk wy.

Ha rbo rsid I-45 e

Zone 504

Champion Ford Gulf Freeway 12227 Gulf Freeway • 866-201-5272

35 Galve

Island ston

Gulf of Mexico

Cafe under the Oaks

12th St.

Galveston Bay

Gabacho’s

20th St.

Tommy’s

26. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood House....................20760 Gulf Frwy 27. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood House ....................1300 Broadway 28. Fox and Hound ....................................12802 Gulf Freeway 29. Gabacho’s Mexican Grill ..........................4449 NASA Rd. 1 30. Green Parrot ................22323 Bayshore Dr. (San Leon) 31. Hugh & Jeff’s Car Wash & Grill ................1232 W. FM 646 32. Jackie’s Brickhouse ......1051 Marina Bay Drive (FM 2094) 33. Jackie B’s Sports.Spirits......................352 N. Gulf Freeway 34. Judges..............................................113 6th St. (San Leon) 35. Katie’s ..........................................................315 Grand Ave. 36. La Brisa - Bacliff............................................4001 Hwy 146 37. La Brisa - League City ..............501 Wesley Drive (@ I-45) 38. Las Haciendas • NASA............................1020 NASA Rd. 1 39. Las Haciendas • I-45 ..........................12933 Gulf Freeway 40. Leila’s Mexican Restaurant........................18119 Egret Bay 41. Luna’s Restaurant (Hilton) ................3000 NASA Parkway 42. Main 101 Grill & Bar ..................101 E. Main St. (La Porte) 43. Main Event............................................1125 Magnolia Ave. 44. Mackey’s ..............................................20801 Gulf Frwy (I-45) 45. Maribelle’s ............................................3136-C NASA Road 1 46. Mario’s Italian • Seabrook ..............1304 Bayport (HWY146) 47. Mario’s Italian • Webster ....................618 NASA Parkway 48. Masa Sushi Fusion ..................................977 Nasa Road 1 49. Masa Sushi Sake Bar ................................1804 W. FM 646 50. Matt’s Restaurant & Lounge..............3202 Marina Bay Drive

Ferr y Rd .

T-bone Tom’s

1. Allegria Wine & Cocktail Lounge......................15210 Hwy 3 2. Amadeus Italian Restaurant ............700 Kipp Ave. (Kemah) 3. Bakkhus Taverna Greek....................605 6th Street (Kemah) 4. Barbed Rose ......................113 East Sealy Street (Alvin) 5. Berryhill Baja Grill & Cantina ................19431 Gatebrook Dr. 6. Berryhill Baja Grill & Cantina ............2660 Marina Bay Drive 7. Big Ben....................................................20237 Gulf Freeway 8. Boondoggles ........................................4106 NASA Parkway 9. Buck’s Bar ........................................18301 B Egret Bay Blvd 10. Cabo ................................2513 NASA Parkway (Seabrook) 11. Cafe Under The Oaks ..............615 E Main Street (FM 518) 12. Cellar Wine Bar ..........................1606 Clear Lake City Blvd. 13. Classic Cafe ..........................................2511 Nasa Parkway 14. Chitsuru Sushi & Hibachi ......2860 Gulf Freeway S, Ste. A 15. Club Pure ..............................229 E NASA Rd. 1 (Webster) 16. Cock-Eyed Seagull ..........................1010B E. Nasa Road 1 17. Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack ..........................309 4th Street 18. Cullen’s Upscale Am. Grille ................11500 Space Center 19. Dempsey’s Sports Pub........................3612 W. Main Street 20. Dickinson Bar-B-Que & Steakhouse ..............2111 FM 517 21. Don Pico’s - Clear Lake........................2110 Bay Area Blvd. 22. Don Pico’s - Pearland ..................9811 Broadway (FM518) 23. D’Vine Wine - Kemah ..........................................709 Harris 24. D’Vine Wine - Galveston ................2301 Strand, Suite 101 25. Escape Sports Bar ..........................................4200 FM 517

Sporting News Grill

51. Mediterraneo Market & Cafe.......... 52. Mely’s - League City ............2951 M 53. Merlion on 4th....................................... 54. Michiru Sushi & Asian Bar ..............20 55. Monkey Bar ................................... 56. Noah’s Ark ............................................ 57. Outriggers ....................101 Bath Ave. 58. Pier 27 Tavern......................3202 59. San Luis Resort ............................ 60. Scout Bar....................................... 61. Sherlock’s ..................................... 62. Signature Bistro ..............1918 NA 63. Skipper’s ......................1026 FM 2 64. Smoking J’s ................550 FM 65. South Shore Harbour Resort ................ 66. Sporting News Bar & Grill ........... 67. Star Cinema Grill ......................10 68. Thai Seafood ................................. 69. The Spot ............................3204 S 70. The Davenport............................12 71. The Tree House ............................ 72. Three Oaks Fine Wines ................ 73. Time Out Sports Bar #1 .............. 74. Time Out Sports Bar #2 ............... 75. Time Out Sports Bar #3 ............... 76. Tommy’s Restaurant Oyster Bar . 77. Topwater Grill..............................8 78. T-bone Tom’s ................................ 79. Wings ‘N’ More - League City220 G 80. Wings ‘N’ More - Webster................ 81. Zone 504 .......................................

82.- 91. KEMAH BOARDWALK RES 82. Aquarium 83. The Pizza Ov 85. The Flying Dutchman 87. Cadillac Bar 89. Lighthouse Buffet 90. La 91. Basin Seafood House 92. S

So. Shore Grille

Swamp Shack

D’Vine Wine

Masa Sushi

Sherlock’s Pub

Kn Island

STAURANT ROW ven 84. Red Sushi 86. Bayside Grille 88. Joe’s Crab Shack andry’s Seafood House Saltgrass Steakhouse

Mackey’s

Noah’s Ark

Houston

64 70

27 13

1 74

75 18

Jackie’s Brickhouse 12 76

5 21

59 28 38 47 67 15 71 48 16 26 44 40 68 54 9 43 60

33 37

14 31 20

Clear Lake

45 13

62 46

Floyd’s

6 72

Galveston Bay

Cock-eyed Seagull

73 28 39 22

Berryhill Baja Grill

Ship Channel

. lvd rB nte Ce ce Spa

.......18033 Upper Bay Rd. Marina Bay Dr. (FM 2094) .....................1301 4th Street 20911 Gulf Freeway, Suite A ...............605 6th Street C .....4438 Boulevard (Bacliff) e. (Under Seabrook Bridge). Marina Bay Blvd. Suite F ..5222 Seawall Boulevard ..............18307 Egret Bay ........2416 Bay Area Blvd. ASA Parkway (Seabrook) 2094 (Clear Lake Shores) M 1959 Dixie Farm Road ..2500 South Shore Harbour ..........850 Harris Avenue. 020 NASA Rd. 1, Ste. 152 ...................17926 Hwy. 3 Seawall Blvd. (Galveston) 235 Clear Lake City Blvd. ...........901 NASA Road 1 .......601 East Main Street ....................10928 Fuqua .........307 El Dorado Blvd. ..4416 Fairmont Parkway ........2555 Bay Area Blvd. 815 Avenue O (San Leon) ...................707 Hwy 146 Gulf Frwy South (@ FM 518) .....1503 W. Bay Area Blvd. ...................504 Kipp Ave.

Matt’s Rest.

82-91 17

3 55 66 2 81 78 23 36 56 35

Dempsey’s

646 517

Don Pico’s

Cellar Wine Bar

Skipper’s

Katie’s Bar & Grill

Club Pure

Mamacita’s

Allegria Lounge

281-535-0900 Largest Selection of Pre-Owned Yachts on the Gulf Coast

Wednesday Night Races ready for 33rd season Seabrook’s Villa Capri to serve as event host & home base You don’t need to know the difference between the “main” and the “jib” to enjoy and appreciate the Bay Area’s most beautiful spectator sport, sailing. Few places anywhere have the kind of sailing community that is found in the Bay Area. This area is home to competitive sailing programs and races run by a number of yacht clubs and local sailing associations. For anyone who loves to sail, who could ask for a better place to live or visit than the Bay Area. But sailing is also a fabulous spectator sport, and the Bay Area offers residents and visitors the rare opportunity to enjoy the impressive sight of sailing up-close and personal during the Wednesday Night Races on Clear Lake, which returns on April 6 and will be hosted by Villa Capri. The popular races, now starting their 33rd year, feature numerous classes of boats on the lake and the bay. Buddy Brown of the Clear Lake Racing Association, organizing authority for the event, said, “We are excited about Villa Capri hosting the races. Anyone who has been to Villa Capri knows what a beautiful property they have on the lake front. There are lots of trees and a garden walk that leads down to the water’s edge. Even on the warmest days, the trees surrounding the patio provide cool temperatures and plenty of shade.” As host, Villa Capri will offer the best view of the races with the start and finish lines directly in front of the club in the prevailing southeast breeze. There will be live commentary, drink specials, random awards, and a special, Wednesday Night Menu to go along with the beautiful views and action. For the sailors, 2011 brings new, more relaxed courses to go along with the challenging courses of years past. “I had the chance to race in my own event last year, and I was quite surprised at the intensity,” Brown explained. “I knew I had set up some short courses, but it was more intense than even I thought it would be. We’re keeping the challenging courses, but to balance it out a bit, we’ve added some longer courses around the lake to introduce more relaxing moments.” Also known as “Beer Can Races” around America, Wednesday Night Sailboat Races are generally more relaxed, but Clear Lake’s version has become a great way to tune up a crew’s teamwork or get involved in the sport for the first time. Introducing some longer, more relaxed racing into the series will allow skippers to invite

newbies along for a ride without worrying too much about Wednesday Night Sailboat the continuRaces on Clear Lake ous scramble for the next Villa Capri: 3713 Nasa PKWY (Seabrook) upcoming 4/06 . . . . . .Series 1, Race 1 maneuver. 4/13 . . . . . .Series 1, Race 2 “Who knows,” said Brown, “they might even be able to open a cola and finish it before the next mark.”

4/20 . . . . . .Series 1, Race 3 4/27 . . . . . .Series 1, Race 4 5/04 5/11 5/18 5/25

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