Downtown Magazine- Fall 2015

page 16

page 22

FALL HAPPENINGS:

Wellness Wednesdays

Friday Flicks on The Lawn

Greentoberfest

6:30-7:00AM BOOT CAMP 5:00-6:00PM YOGA

SEPT 18: 8:00PM HUNGER GAMES OCT 16: 8:00PM CASPER NOV 20: 8:00PM THE SANTA CLAUSE

SEPT 26: 1:00-5:00PM LIVE MUSIC, BEER, GAMES

GREENSTREET greenstreetdowntown.com | facebook | twitter | instagram

inside.

FALL 2015 VOL. 8, NO. 1

Barkitecture / p. 51

SCAN downtown Managing Editor/ Creative Director Angie Bertinot, Downtown District Copy Editor Barbara Linkin Mendel, Mendel Creative Solutions

4 MOVE ALONG

Design ph Design Shop

METRO’s New Bus Network is the first element of an exciting strategic plan to revitalize the city’s bus system. From faster trips to a user-friendly smart phone app, the new service enhancements will make it easier than ever to move people around Houston.

Photography Katya Horner, Slight Clutter Photography Contributing Writers Holly Beretto, Angie Bertinot, Nicole Marin, Valonia Walker

16 PARK IT

Advertising Information Angie Bertinot, 713.650.3022/ angie@downtowndistrict.org

Finding a place to put your car when you’re Downtown is way easier than you think, thanks to our new interactive map. And take a moment to read Steven R. Spillette’s thought-provoking essay on walkability, originally written for the nonprofit urban planning think tank, Houston Tomorrow. by angie bertinot

22 BE THE CHANGE

Questions or comments?

Drop us a line at dtmagazine@downtowndistrict.org

Downtown magazine is published quarterly and is free of charge.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Downtown District, 909 Fannin, Suite 1650, Houston, Texas 77010.

Houston’s commitment to essentially ending chronic homelessness is a massive undertaking. It requires the cooperation and partnership of a coalition of nonprofit organizations and the commitment of local and federal resources. But if the city pulls it off (and it’s already significantly reduced the number of homeless veterans on the street) it will have made a fundamental difference for thousands of people and set a standard for other urban centers around the country. by HOLLY BERETTO

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7

HOT COMPANIES

Traffic Engineers, Inc. has settled quite comfortably into their new Downtown digs. Being in the heart of Houston makes perfect sense for this 46-yearold company, which provides transportation solutions to clients around the world.

BY HOLLY BERETTO

BACKSTAGE

As the temperature cools, the Houston Theater District heats up. Classic Broadway, powerful operatic themes and innovative dance are all on tap this fall. Plus, Houston Symphony’s Andrés OrozcoEstrada opens up about his passion for conducting.

While homelessness isn’t easy to discuss, it’s an issue the city is tackling head-on with a massive new initiative.

Published by:

With support from:

publishers’ note

BY VALONIA WALKER

34

PLATE/SIP

Our comprehensive listing of everything scrumptious in Downtown Houston and a peek

at Downtown’s hot new Caribbean escape – Calabash Island Eats.

41

datebook

Theater, concerts, tours, festivals, special events and much more.

56

destination downtown map

PUBLISHERs’ NOTE

E

A different perspective

Every quarter for the past seven years it’s been our pleasure to share with you the hottest new entertainment options, exciting retail developments and sleek new bars and restaurants that have everyone buzzing. We love chronicling the changes that are making our city a media darling.

But this fall we decided it was time to focus on a different subject – one that isn’t always easy to discuss. Homelessness affects us all, whether it’s the panhandler you encounter on your daily But this fall we commute or the domestic violence decided it was victim in your office, quietly time to tackle struggling to find a safe haven. a different With The Way Home, the city is tackling the issue with a massive subject – one new initiative that is already that isn’t always making a huge difference thanks easy to discuss. to its data-driven approach and the unprecedented cooperation of dozens of government agencies and nonprofits. The goal is to end chronic homelessness by 2020.

Will we do it? You decide after reading more about this gamechanging project, starting on page 22.

Of course we still want to provide you with helpful ways to navigate our city’s center so we’ve included info on METRO’s New Bus Network and are thrilled to introduce you to our user-friendly interactive parking map. Because navigating Downtown really is pretty easy, once you know how. As always, you’ll find our extensive calendar of events and activities in Datebook on page 41 and our comprehensive listing of eateries in Plate on page 34.

Of course, be sure to visit us online at downtownhouston. org, where we always keep you up to date on the latest when it comes to our city’s center. And let us know what you think about downtown. We’re more than happy to take your comments and suggestions.

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fall 2015

Bob Eury

Angie Bertinot

executive director Downtown District

director of marketing downtown district

downtownhouston.org

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1200 McKinney St., Houston, TX 77010 • ShopsatHC.com

THE METRO NETWORK GOES MODERN

AUGUST 2015

This past August, the Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (METRO) unveiled its much anticipated, New Bus Network. The unveiling marks the beginning of a five-year plan to revitalize Houston’s bus system.

To view the FULL Bus Network, g o t o r i d emetro . org

FALL 2015

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D own load Today !

T he M E T R O T.R.I .P. A p p avai lable on ap p le, android + windows

Offers schedule information, predicts arrival time of buses and helps plan your trip.

F eatures inc lu de:

W here am I

Uses the GPS in your phone to pinpoint your location, along with the bus routes and rail lines closest to your location.

B ut better access i sn ’ t the on ly i m p ro v ement. M E T R O ’ s N e w B us N et w or k i s more con v en i ent an d user - f r i en d ly.

The agency’s approval process for a better bus system began in early 2015, when METRO’s board of directors approved an innovative system of routes designed to work together to create a network, with better connections to job centers and popular destinations around the city.

The goal was to provide a faster, more efficient, and easier to use mass transit service without raising costs to the public.

With the help of leading transit designers and input from the community, the result was a new, completely redesigned bus network that's more convenient and user-friendly.

This aggressive implementation plan included changing bus stop/shelter locations, posting new signage throughout the system, modifying bus operating facilities, and creating a comprehensive public education, marketing and media plan. METRO anticipates a 20 percent increase in ridership within the next two years.

METRO’s “frequent network” brings more than one million Houstonians into within a half-mile of a bus route that runs every 10 to 15 minutes for at least 15 hours a day, seven days a week — ­ double the current number of people

with such access. METRO is a welcome alternative for many who haven’t considered public transit before.

In addition, METRO’s New Bus Network is more reliable. Currently, delays often result from buses stopped by freight trains and are compounded by long, complicated routes. The New Bus Network reduces the number of streetlevel freight rail crossings by 30 percent each day. New routes are shorter, come more often, and have virtually no branches so bus operators can do a better job of keeping buses running on time The Houston region is dynamic and growing.

METRO’s New Bus Network is designed to serve the city’s biggest job and activity centers.

The network not only improves upon today's needs for commuters but is also designed to anticipate emerging needs and is ready to grow with the multi-centered region of the future.

It’s a transit system that lets more people get to more places, more quickly, more of the time.

Next transp ort

Gives you scheduled and real-time bus and rail arrivals.

P l an tri p

S E R V I C E im p rovements

Finds a route for you based on arrival time, transfers and minimized walking distance, enabling you to get to your destination quickly.

ridemetro.org

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fall 2015

downtownhouston.org

A frequent-network grid that connects one million people and one million jobs

Daily, high-frequency bus network with 22 bus routes that integrate with METRO’s three light rail lines

An increase in current riders served by frequent service from 25 to 75 percent

37 percent more Saturday and 93 percent more Sunday bus service

Faster trips for 30 key destinations The ability of 94 percent of riders to board at their current stop Routes operating seven days a week Anticipated ridership increasing 20 percent in two years

Freight railroad crossings reduced by 30 percent, a major source of on-time performance woes Running times on all bus routes verified and updated to further improve on-time performance

hot co.

d o w n to w n's m o v e r s a n d s h a k e r s

b y H o l ly B e r e t to

Traffic Engineers, Inc. Helps Keep Houston On the Go

F

rom the cozy terrace of Traffic Engineers, Inc.

on Congress Street, you can see Buffalo Bayou and watch METRORail pull into the University of Houston-Downtown station. Three floors below, cars, bikes and pedestrians share the streets of Market Square. Looking down from this vantage point, it’s a microcosm of movement – fitting, really, given what TEI does.

The 46-year-old company provides a variety of transportation solutions to clients (mainly public entities) around the globe. The goal is to enhance the quality of life in the cities TEI serves, offering a way for multiple modes of transit to co-exist, taking a holistic look at the ways people get from place to place, and implementing tools to help them do it better.

Given all that’s happening on Houston’s transit scene in recent months – increased bike paths Downtown, the complete “THERE'S AN overhaul of METRO’s bus routes, pushes AMAZING by citizens to have the City of Houston put sidewalks in their neighborhoods – it’s ENERGY fitting that TEI chose Downtown as an adDOWNTOWN.” dress when it sought to move its operations from a building on the Southwest Freeway.

“The firm’s original location worked for the two founders of the company,” said Geoff Carleton, who handles project planning for TEI, spending his days shuttling through transit planning meetings with city leaders and hosting community meetings about needed neighborhood changes.

“And the Southwest Freeway was between their two homes in Sugar Land and the Sharpstown-Alief area. About a year ago, we had a discussion about where we wanted to be. And Downtown offered us so many options: We have staff who bike to work, we have bus and rail transit here, and certainly, you can drive.”

That thought process allowed the firm to put its money where its mouth was, so to speak, and the company that provides transit solutions moved into its new Market Square home, creating multiple mobility options for its 18 employees and clients. Two of them live in Montrose and do, indeed, bike into work. Two more commented that they enjoy being able to walk out the front door and down the street for lunch at any of the many eateries.

“There’s an amazing energy Downtown,” said Eleni Pappas, one of TEI’s senior associates, who’s done work on neighborhood

traffic management programs. “If I work late on a Thursday night, I’ll come out into Market Square and see people at the bars and restaurants – it’s fun.”

Being Downtown might not have changed the mission of the company, but it’s certainly made TEI an organization that is living its commitment. Its offices are decorated with one-way signs and a traffic light. Bikes lean against the walls in various offices. Its website touts the Downtown move, proudly proclaiming the new office’s 93 Walk Score, 96 Transit Score and 85 Bike Score and showing a map of its central location. “Come see us!” the site proclaims, clearly demonstrating that no matter where clients or potential partners might be, it’s easy to find a route to TEI’s door.

And, indeed, TEI is at the center of transit action in the city right now. The company was a major player in helping METRO redesign and reroute its buses; the new routes went into effect in August. That Herculean feat involved not only remapping the way buses moved through the entire city, but also called for a re-evaluation of what a transportation system should be. It’s almost difficult to grasp the sheer magnitude of the new METRO plan, but consider this: Robin Holzer, who handles marketing and business development for TEI says she’s fielded phone calls from as far away as China about what METRO’s done and how it will change the shape of Houston and the city core, and what it says about the city’s attitudes about traffic congestion.

“Congestion is a sign of success,” said Carleton. “It says that lots of people want to be here. So, our challenge is, how do we create a desirable, sustainable city, and what tools do you use to manage that? Just widening a roadway isn’t enough.”

FALL 2015

7

the team at TEI has managed to help the fourth-largest city in the country emerge as a transit solutions leader.

That’s why TEI is also involved in creating smart streets in Downtown and around the city. Smart streets incorporate spaces for cars, bikes, buses and pedestrians to co-exist. TEI’s offices have maps of Houston tacked up onto the walls and laid out on tables in the breakroom, showing roads, streets and bike paths, all of the drawings and plans giving a glimpse at how to improve mobility in the city. Downtown’s new bike paths are part of that plan. So are the bike lanes that are part of the Bayou Greenways project, which looks to connect paths along Houston’s bayous, offering places for bike transit and recreation, as well as creating greenspaces for residents to enjoy.

“The Bayou Greenways project changed the experience of biking in this city,” said Carleton. “It’s a little bit like the success of METRORail. People see other people riding the train, or see that their neighbors can bike to their offices and they start to think, ‘Why can’t I do that?’ or ‘I want that in my neighborhood?’ The psychology of how people look at transit is changing everywhere. So, we can’t think anymore that we can only design a city around the car.”

The idea of transformation looms large for TEI – both in terms of helping clients reach their peak in providing great transit and quality-of-life solutions, but also in holding itself to a standard of not just talking about solutions, but taking part in them on an individual level as well.

“In a lot of ways, we lead by example,” said Pappas. “I do bike to work, but I recently rode the bus with a friend of mine to help her figure out the best route and schedule. When people see that there are choices and they’re easy to use, it changes how they think.”

And change is definitely something that’s come – and continues to happen in – Downtown. Over the last few years, the city core has changed from the place where Houston does business to a place where Houstonians live, work and play. Traffic Engineering, Inc. capitalizes on that from its new spot, and incorporates the city core’s changing needs and demographics into what was already a solutiondriven, forward-thinking, multi-platform mission.

“Downtown is the economic engine of most cities,” said Brad Eaves, who handles many of TEI’s traffic impact studies and helps develop traffic signal designs. “We used to design Downtown for workers. But now, we have to look at how we design Downtowns for other people, too. People want to live and work in Downtown HousCaption goes here.

8

fall 2015

downtownhouston.org

ton. And the value of land here means we’re seeing people redesign what used to be parking lots as multi-use developments. So, how do we find the right balance to make Downtown work for residents and those who work here? Downtown is now a destination.”

“We’re really about making communities better,” said Holzer. “And we go out of our way to recruit people who share in that mission.”

Through a combination of engineering savvy, project planning and a deft touch for listening to the community, the team at TEI has managed to help the fourth-largest city in the country emerge as a transit solutions leader. The oldest firm of its kind in the country, TEI has watched the growth of cities and transportation challenges for nearly half a century. As Houston and cities around the globe react to changing demographics, growth in urban density and a migration back to city cores, the firm is poised to help them find ways to move people and vehicles in and out of the areas where they live, work and play. And Downtown definitely gives the firm a front-row seat to watch how their solutions are taking shape. The new bicycle master plan would better connect the trails along the bayous into the street network. Downtown’s already walkable, and will likely see even more pedestrians on the sidewalks as more people choose to live in the city center.

“There’s so much life here in Downtown,” said Eaves.

“We’re spoiled,” jokes Pappas about TEI’s Downtown address.

“In addition to the restaurants and bars we have right outside our office door, I can actually walk, bike, bus or drive to work. That’s a great choice to have.”

And choice, the TEI team agree, is what building smart, 21st century transportations solutions is all about.

“When we help create solutions like the new METRO routes or advise on bikeways, what we’re saying is, not everyone has to drive if they don’t want to – but people still can,” said Carleton. “But giving people choices is another way of having freedom. And when you’re in Downtown, you see people making those choices every day.”

arts & entertainment

b a c k s ta g e .

2015

FALL

PHOTO COURTESY OF ALLEY THEATER

by Valonia Walker

SPA - Daniil Simkin Intensio

FALL 2015

9

F

all is that you? The summer months have quickly passed and the 2015-2016 Theater District season is here to bring you dance, theater, music and more. With so many options, you can choose more than one. Keep reading for some of the shows in store for you.

Alley Theatre

Alley Theatre kicks off its season on their newly renovated stage with the English comedy One Man, Two Guvnors, Oct. 7 – Nov. 1. After being fired from his pop band, Francis finds himself working two jobs with two bosses who are connected in unbelievable ways. Schemes, romantic triangles and outlandish deceit will keep you laughing in your seat. Next, Alley audiences will learn about Juliana Smithton, a successful neurologist whose life starts to unravel right before your eyes in The Other Place.

Her husband has filed for divorce, leaving her for a younger woman, their daughter has run off to be with an older man and her health becomes the topic of discussion. Juliana finds herself struggling, but things become clear once she reaches The Other Place, Oct. 28 – Nov. 15 Jones Hall

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of Beatlemania in Houston, the Houston Symphony brings you Music of the Beatles, Sept.

4-6. Enjoy songs from Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and popular hits like, Let it Be, and All You Need Is Love. The symphony will perform Mahler Symphony No. 5, Sept 17, 19-20, giving the audience an opportunity to hear some of the most emotionally powerful music ever written. Prior to the performance you will also get to hear the world premiere of the orchestral version of Stomp by composer John Corigliano. You will have the chance to hear from the composer himself during On Stage Insights with Andrés at the start of the concert. The orchestra will perform Schumann’s, The Pilgrimage of the Rose for the first time Oct. 3-4. This score transforms the typical fairytale into a powerful story of what it means to be human and to love.

The Rat Pack is Back on Sept.

18! Thanks to Society for the Performing Arts, you can relive the days of some of the best entertainers in Las Vegas in this Dick Feeney tribute to Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin. The show

10 fall 2015

downtownhouston.org

Houston Symphony features vocal recreations, humor and a live 12-piece orchestra that will have the audience wondering if they traveled back in time. Tunes include, That’s Amore, My Way and Mr. Bojangles. Ballet Hispanico returns to Houston Oct. 24 to perform its first full-length narrative work – Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s Carmen.maquia. Celebrating the diversity of Latino culture through dance, Ballet Hispanico is cutting edge. Carmen.maquia is compelling and physically charged, integrating contemporary dance with Spanish paso doble and flamenco.

American Ballet Theatre’s Daniil Simkin brings together fellow ABT stars – Isabella Boylston, Alexandre Hammoudi, Blaine Hoven, Calvin Royal III, Hee Seo, Cassandra Trenary and James Whiteside – as well as special guest Céline Cassone of Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal for Intensio. Intensio is a collaboration of dance and multimedia like you’ve never seen before. The ensemble of dancers will perform inno-

SPA - The Rat Pack is Back

vated and newly commissioned works of four of today’s modern and contemporary ballet choreographers Nov. 6.

PHOTO BY felix sanchez

Wortham Theater Center

PHOTO BY JOAN MARCUS

HGO - Tosca

Da Camera - Elias String Quartet

Houston Grand Opera starts their season with a tale of deceit and betrayal. Singing one of Puccini’s most famous scores, Floria Tosca makes a deal with the wicked police chief but is tricked! The story of Tosca takes place during one of history’s most turbulent times. Forced to choose between her lover and the scheming police chief, this volatile triangle comes to an explosive end in one of opera’s bloodiest and passionate dramas, Oct. 23 – Nov. 14. Tchaikovsky's Eugene Onegin is a story of lost love and regret. Eugene Onegin’s impulsive nature has caused him to forfeit any chance at love. As a young man Onegin missed an opportunity at love with the beloved Tatyana and now she is faithful to another man. The story brings to life the human nature of wanting something that you cannot have Oct. 30 – Nov. 13.

Da Camera brings Snapshots of America to the Cullen stage for their Opening Night on Sept. 26. Five-time Grammy winner Dawn Upshaw, pianist Gilbert Kalish, the So Percussion and Da Camera Ensemble will take a compelling look at the American landscape experienced through music. Wrapping up a four-year project, London’s Elias String Quartet will perform works from each phase of Beethoven’s career in Beethoven’s Perspectives.

Their work has been dedicated to playing Beethoven’s quartets, and audiences will enjoy the kickoff to this four-concert series, Nov. 12. Da Camera Jazz presents Arturo O’Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra, Oct. 24. Earning a Grammy for Best Latin Jazz Album of 2014 is just the tip of the iceberg for this outstanding group. Grammy winner Arturo brings together the drama of Big Band jazz and the culture of Latin music.

Houston Ballet opens its season with the modern classic, Manon. This dance drama explores the relationship between love, sex, and the corruption of money. Audiences find the passionate story irresistible and have made it one of the most popular full-length ballets around the world. Enjoy this tale of love and greed Sept. 10-20. The fall mixed repertory program features Christopher Bruce’s Ghost Dances, Stanton Welch’s Tapestry and a Mozart Violin Concerto No. 5 showcase for Houston Ballet’s dancers. Former Houston Ballet dancer Garrett Smith is also set to create his second world premiere for the company Sept. 24 – Oct. 4.

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PHOTO BY Terry Shapiro

Hobby Center for the Performing Arts

Theatre Under The Stars brings the Disney animated film and hit Broadway musical, The Little Mermaid, back to the stage Sept.

10-13. Dive in fins first to follow the story of Ariel, who is tired of her life under the sea and ventures off to dry land for a change of scenery. Her trip to land could change her life forever. The Little Mermaid is followed by Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, Oct. 6-18. Winner of five Tony awards, Matilda tells the triumphant story of an intelligent young girl with a big imagination and even bigger aspirations.

TUTS Underground presents Bonnie & Clyde Oct. 1-4. Bonnie and Clyde’s passion for thrills and for each other eventually forces them on the run.

For the first time in 40 years Pippin is back on Broadway! The Tony-award winning musical comes to Broadway at the Hobby Center Oct. 20-25. Pippin tells the story of a young prince and his journey to find his place in life.

This musical features spectacular acrobatics and choreography in the style of Bob Fosse. In November audiences will be blown away by the new take on The Phantom of the Opera, Nov. 18-29. The eye-catching set designs, costumes and an edgy performance will not disappoint.

PHOTO BY Amitava Sarkar

Sasha Allen and the cast of the national touring production of Pippin

Houston Ballet - Amy Fote and Connor Walsh in Manon

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downtownhouston.org

arts & entertainment: p r o f i l e

Q&A WITH AndrÉs Orozco-ESTRADA Houston Symphony Music Director b y Va l o n i a Wa l k e r

H

ouston Symphony Music Director, Andrés Orozco-Estrada, discovered his gift for music at a young age and after his first musical encounter he dreamed of nothing but music. He attended a music school to develop his talents and it was there that the Colombia native realized he had found his true love – conducting. This will be his second season conducting with the Houston Symphony orchestra.

PHOTO BY Sam Krisch

Orozco-Estrada took time to answer a few question about his musical beginnings and the upcoming performance season.

When did you first start conducting?

I began conducting at age 15 when I conducted the youth orchestra of my school in Medellin. The conductor of my orchestra at the time would catch a glimpse of me making conductor gestures, so one day she suggested that I should give it a try, and I did. She asked me to step in to substitute for her, and I have never looked back after that. I fell in love with conducting.

Your whole body seems to move when you are conducting. Physically, what is the most difficult part about conducting?

Conducting indeed demands physical endurance and a great deal of energy, not to mention the ability to maintain such energy for long periods of time, both in rehearsals and during the concerts. I usually stretch before and after each performance. I try to focus mentally and physically before stepping foot onto the stage because each interaction with the orchestra requires high levels of concentration.

You conduct with so much passion. When you hear music for the first time what goes through your mind?

Each piece has a backstory filled with emotion, energy and a unique story to tell. It is impossible not to feel the music from the beginning, even just by reading the score. The first thing that crosses my mind when studying a score or rehearsing a piece is the composer’s intention with the piece, what he wanted to express with each of the notes written. I can only be faithful and respectful to each masterpiece; I try to exude everything the music evokes and wants to say.

The Symphony has a reputation for presenting new, innovative works along with the traditional. Do you think it's important to augment the traditional professional orchestral repertoire with contemporary works and, if so, what are your pl ans for doing so?

I think it’s important to present to audiences variety and diversity in the types of works we perform, from the widely known classic masterworks to the music of today. This is one of the many ways we can connect with audiences on a deeper level. I truly value and encourage the meaningful relationships we’re able to foster between living composers and audiences. Our ongoing collaborations with contemporary composers such as Gabriela Lena Frank, who is now in her second season as the Houston Symphony’s composer-in-residence, are evidence of those efforts.

Who is your favorite musician and why?

It’s very hard to say. There are too many talented artists to choose from, not only performers but also composers. I´ve had the chance to meet a number of amazing musicians throughout my career, with each of the orchestras I have played with and the soloists I have worked with. I have also learned a great deal from endless number of musicians that have written the wonderful music that now I´m fortunate enough to perform in each concert. Each masterpiece I´ve studied and performed has an incredible mind behind it.

This summer you and members of the Symphony traveled to Colombia for the Colombian Youth Philharmonic Dual Residency program. What is it like to provide mentorship to young musicians in Colombia who aspire to be in your shoes one day, and what advice do you give them?

It is extremely rewarding for me and my colleagues at the Houston Symphony to provide mentoring opportunities for these young musicians.

Most of us, myself included, didn’t have an opportunity to be coached by professional orchestral musicians growing up. For us to be able to do that for the future generation of orchestral musicians, it’s a real treat. My advice to young musicians is to never stop learning and growing and to never feel like there’s a limit in how much they can grow or aspire to be.

Is there a particul ar performance/music selection this fall that will surprise the audience?

I’m particularly looking forward for audiences listening to pianist Emanuel Ax perform Brahm´s majestic Piano Concerto No. 2, Pilgrimage of the Rose, a rare masterpiece by Schumann, and last but not least Mahler’s Symphony No. 5.

What are your favorite things to do in Houston when you have free time?

To be honest, my free time in Houston is unfortunately non-existent! But I try to make some time to be with my family, enjoy the wonderful places you can find in Houston, and of course the people, who are always incredibly warm and friendly. My family and I feel at home any time we are in Houston.

FALL 2015

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THE REAL DEAL

Others may say

they “know” the downtown real estate market, but working out of an historic downtown building, Top Producing Realtors Terry Stanfield and Kelly Pachar are the real deal. They not only list and sell the downtown good life, they live it! Each is a downtown homeowner and resident with many years of downtown residential real estate expertise.

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p h d e signs h o p.c o m

YOUR

UP GAME by going DOWNTOWN

YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE. After cheering at the big game or working hard at the office, head downtown for a chill way to end the day. Because sometimes all you need to recharge is your buddies and some brews.

BOVINE & BARLEY

DowntownHouston.org

P17

THE MAP WORKS ON YOUR DESKTOP AS WELL AS YOUR SMARTPHONE. FOR iPHONE USERS, YOUR iOS HOME SCREEN ISN’T JUST FOR APPS. YOU CAN PUT BOOKMARKS ON IT, TOO, CREATING ONE-TAP SHORTCUTS TO YOUR FAVORITE WEB SITES.

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS Open up Safari and load downtownhoustonparking.org.

At the bottom of the screen you’ll see an icon depicting an arrow that looks like it’s trying to get away from a square.

Tap this button.

ARK YOUR CAR.

BY ANGIE BERTINOT

WHE THER YOU’RE A LONGTIME RESIDENT OR VISITING

the Bayou City for the first time, there’s no questioning Downtown is an exciting place to be right now.

Twenty-six projects are under construction with another dozen in the planning stages. Our sports teams are killing it. Buffalo Bayou Park is nearing completion.

And new bars and restaurants continue to open in the Historic District making it the buzzed about, go-to neighborhood.

But even with all the good stuff happening, we realize, for many, parking is still going to be your first and last impression of Downtown. It continues to be a hot button for visitors—the perception is that parking is confusing, expensive and inconvenient.

And it’s our job to help people get around. So, we’ve created a new interactive parking map that will make finding parking Downtown easier and faster. We also believe that it will help put to rest some of the perceptions people have about Downtown parking. There actually is an abundance of parking. There’s also quite a bit of cheap parking (and we’ll tell you where!) and on-street parking is super-convenient. You just need to know the rules and restrictions (see parking tips).

The online map includes public garages, surface lots and on-street parking. It tells you where parking is located, how much it costs, hours of operation, plus lots of great tips that will make you a parking expert.

You can search by destination, so if you are going to Discovery Green you can zoom in and see what parking is available within a few blocks. We’ve also included Greenlink, BCycle and METRORail stations in the map for those of you who are carless or who want to park once and get around using another mode of transit.

If you managed to tap that button successfully, you’ll have a few options. The one you want to tap next is “Add to Home Screen.” Do that.

You’ll be asked to choose a name for the home screen icon.

Pick a good name and save it.

When you’re done it will show up on your home screen.

Be glad you’ll never have to type in downtownhoustonparking.org ever again.

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ow do you find the balance between parking and good development? With approximately half of our 150,000 Downtown workers driving into work, parking is crucial.

Retail requires convenient parking spaces that can handle high turnover and Houston is still a car-centric city, so resident parking is a must as well. But, the need for parking changes throughout the day as people come to shop, employees head to work, and residents go out for the evening.

The good news is we are seeing a shift take place in Downtown.

The City of Houston is focusing on shared parking — a land use/development strategy that optimizes parking by allowing complementary uses to share spaces, rather than producing separate spaces for separate uses. Distinct but complementary parking patterns, such as office parking that is generally empty in the evenings and on weekends, can be used for retail or venue parking without increasing supply.

We are also seeing major service improvements with

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METRO’s expansion of the rail lines and their New Bus Network, a necessity to those individuals who do not own a car or are forgoing use of a car. More and more, instead of driving to a game or a night out, Houstonians are taking Uber or The Wave. For Downtown workers, with or without a car, you can get around during the week using Greenlink or BCycle. And best of all, Downtown is walkable.

Steve Spillette recently wrote a thought-provoking essay for Houston Tomorrow about the city’s parking situation. It raises some great points. Although Downtown is a bit different because there are no regulatory requirements for development regarding parking, that hasn’t stopped private developers and property owners from adding parking, at great cost. The question becomes, why do they think it’s so necessary, especially when there’s already a huge amount of parking Downtown? And you have to start looking at why folks think you have to drive to get to Downtown or even drive from place to place within Downtown, as well as how the supply of parking is being managed.

PARKING, WALKABILITY + QUALITY OF LIFE

BY STEVEN R. SPILLETTE President, CDS Market Research *This essay originally was written for the nonprofit urban planning think tank Houston Tomorrow.

It’s often said that in Houston, and Texas, we love our cars. And I venture to say that as much as Houstonians are devoted to driving, they are obsessed about parking. Perhaps some Houstonians think that having convenient free off-street parking at the front door of just about everywhere is something that makes our city great, and better than those older “walkable” cities, where parking is often a hassle, or expensive, or both. In this perspective, when convenient free off-street parking next to your destination is missing – meaning you

have to search for a parking spot on the street, or go to a garage blocks away, or actually pay for the privilege of storing your car temporarily while you go about your business – then something is, well, sub-optimal, and hurting quality of life.

I suppose if you strongly dislike walking, biking, taking transit, or using services such as taxis and rideshare, then such a reaction is logical. I would venture to say that the perceived dominance of this perspective has been a major driver of land use regulation in Houston over

the last few decades – specifically expressed by minimum onsite parking requirements – because people who are upset about what they consider parking injustice can get pretty noisy, and elected officials and bureaucrats generally pay attention to noisy.

However, I wonder if people who endorse this perspective realize the prices paid for all the vast supply of parking that is deemed to be needed to be just about everywhere. While I could highlight many ways that the omnipresence of parking as a land use can negatively impact us, such

as excessive and polluted storm runoff and urban heat islands, I want to focus on two main impacts: the reduced appeal and effectiveness of walking and the terrific financial burden our obsession with parking places on both the private and public sector.

The negative impacts on walking as a means of mobility and access are pretty obvious. Massive on-site parking supply pushes destinations apart, meaning fewer destinations are available within a reasonable walking distance, diminishing the practicality of getting around on foot. Off-street parking facilities are also generally unpleasant to walk next to or through, reducing the qualitative experience of being a pedestrian as well. With such conditions, even folks who might not be predisposed against walking will be more likely to drive to and between their destinations (thus creating more traffic and pollution). In short, excessive on-site parking and walkable environments are not terribly compatible. Of course, the traffic congestion and health impacts are becoming more widely known as consequences of a lack of walkability. Not to mention the burden placed on those who walk because, for whatever reason, they’re unable to drive. Finally, from a more purely qualitative perspective, there are those who actually like walking in cities and who are denied that experience.

The negative impact of the financial burden of excessive and poorly located parking may be even more pernicious, however. It would be silly to declare parking unnecessary at the present time, especially for most commercial uses in Houston; our relatively lower densities and sparse public transit network (hopefully being improved now) mean that outside of the Central Business District parking is necessary for a sufficient number of employees, customers, and visitors to access destinations. But onsite parking, mandated by Houston city code (outside the CBD) and perceived as necessary regardless of code by most developers, comes at great cost – it takes extra money to build parking, not to mention to acquire and use the underlying land for that purpose. What ends up happening is that enormous resources are spent purely for vehicle storage, rather than using that capital and land for actual economic activity.

Where does the Houston economy actually take place? Usually in buildings, not in parking lots or garages— yet how much underutilized financial resources are locked

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PARKING TIPS TO LIVE BY

ONE

FIVE AVOID COMMERCIAL METERS Commercial meters (usually painted red) designate parking spots for commercial vehicles (with company logos displayed) only. Most likely, if someone is parked in these spots, it’s because they already have a commercial permit for the spot. If you don’t have a commercial permit, think twice about parking in these spots.

PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO STREET SIGNS Some metered areas magically turn into tow-away zones between 7–9 am and 4–6 pm on weekdays. Be sure to read signs carefully as many streets have special tow-away, truck loading zones and commercial zones. If you park in any of these areas, you will be towed.

TWO AVOID SPOTS WITH RED MARKINGS If a curb is painted red, there are red stripes on the street, or a meter has a red bag over it, the designated spots are off limits at all times (including after 6 pm when parking is free).

SIX USE HIGH-TECH PARKING METERS Most of Downtown has easy-to-use smart meters! No more digging change out from between your car seats. These meters take dollar bills, credit cards and some even allow you to pay by phone via apps like Parkmobile and Parkbytext. The meters also won’t accept money or mobile payments if you’re trying to use the meter when it is off limits (see Tip 1) or if parking is free at the time (see Tip 4).

SEVEN THREE BE AWARE OF TIME LIMITS Most Downtown meters have a threehour time limit, which means you cannot park in the designated spot for more than three hours at a time without getting a ticket. At the end of the three hours, you must move your car to a completely different zone (not just to the spot in front of or behind you). Note: Most meters have a green sticker on them with a four or five digit number indicating the parking zone you are in.

PURCHASE A DOWNTOWN HOPPER PASS When purchasing a Downtown Hopper Pass you pay a one-time daily fee that allows you to move from block to block or meter to meter throughout Downtown without having to pay the meter each time. Time limits still apply (see Tip 3).

EIGHT EXPLORE DOWNTOWN

BY FOOT

FOUR ENJOY FREE PARKING On-street parking Downtown is FREE Monday–Friday from 6 pm–7 am and all day Sunday. Again, beware of red markings (see Tip 2)!

Contrary to popular belief, Downtown Houston is walkable! Most of Downtown’s popular destinations are never more than a 5-10 minute walk from each other. For example, you can easily park in the Historic District, grab a drink at one of the neighborhood bars then walk to Sundance Cinemas at Bayou Place to see the latest indie flick. Walking is more fun, adventurous, and not to mention, lighter on your pocketbook!

if a 20 percent homestead exemption is assumed on all units.

One might point out that while retail lags on property tax generation, it also produces sales tax for the City. This is true, but my calculations indicate that Sawyer Heights would need to contain 300,000 square feet of retail space generating $500 annually per square foot in taxable sales to even approach the fiscal productivity of the apartments. For the vast majority of one-story retail centers in Houston, such sales productivity will be well above what they are capable of.

I can tell you from my other experiences in consulting work that these examples of assessed HOUSTON NEEDS IMPROVEMENTS value generation are IN BOTH IN THE DESIGN OF DEVELOPMENTS quite typical. Parking, however seemAND IN THE PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY TO FACILITATE SAFE, COMFORTABLE WALKING. ingly necessary, hurts walkability, and hurts municipal fiscal productivity. ing garage built underneath the living So where does this leave Houston? units. The retail property also producThe city has enormous fiscal chales less assessed value per acre than lenges. While certainly managing the nearby single family town homes, even into parking? How much more expensive, or financially tenuous, is a development project than it would have been if more land could be used productively? How might our built environment improve if more could be spent on creating quality buildings and more affordable housing rather than creating more parking?

There are serious ramifications for the city’s fiscal health in this regard.

I researched the assessed values of various types of recently built properties in the Washington Avenue corridor. An unwalkable parking-oriented retail big-box strip center development, dominated by surface parking, produces significantly lower taxable property value than a multifamily apartment development with a park-

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EN OP

expenditure side of the budget is critical regardless of how much revenue is coming in, allowing or encouraging low fiscal value development forced by both the mandatory and perceived need for excessive on-site parking is not a situation that should continue.

Solutions will likely include some mix of relaxation or elimination of onsite parking requirements, community shared parking facilities, improved public transit, and eventually autonomous (self-driving) vehicles that do not have to be parked right at the destination. And as or more importantly, Houston needs improvements in both in the design of developments and in the public rights of way to facilitate safe, comfortable walking. Houston’s current densification trend provides a great opportunity to try out these options.

We often think of walkability’s potential to improve our health, our natural environment, and our city image. But just as importantly, it can help save our collective checkbook.

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Make your next appointment close to work.

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• Convenient for early morning or lunchtime appointments • Walk-ins welcome Memorial Hermann Medical Group Downtown 919 Milam Street, Suite 103 Located in the heart of downtown in Bank One Center above Becks Prime, street parking available To schedule, call 832.658.5140 or use ScheduleNow at memorialhermann.org

INTRODUCING YOUR

DOWNTOWN DOCTOR’S OFFICE.

Find parking faster and easier at DowntownHoustonParking.org

23

W hen M ayor A nni s e Pa rker a nn o un c ed in J une t h at t he C i t y of H o u s t on h a d b a s i c a l ly ended c hroni c h o mel e s s ne s s f or v e t er a n s, t he en t ire n at i on t o ok n o t i c e . T he a nn o un c e men t c a me a mid ne w s t h at d o z en s of c i t y en t i t ie s a nd n onp rof i t org a ni z at i on s h a d p o ol ed t heir re s o urc e s a nd t h at by t he end of a t hree - y e a r p eri od, more t h a n 3, 5 0 0 h o mel e s s v e t er a n s w o ul d b e p l a c ed in h o u s in g . I t wa s a b ol d t hin g t o s ay – a nd a n e v en b ol der t hin g t o a c t u a l ly d o. S o i t ’s n o w onder t he s t ory m a de i t t o t he pa g e s a nd a irwav e s of e v ery t hin g f ro m t he c i t y ’s o w n H o u s t on P ub l i c Medi a t o n at i on a l o u t l e t s s uc h a s T he Huf f in g t on P o s t.

24

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“Houston is there for our heroes, and just like on the battlefield, we will leave no one behind,” Parker said in a June Huffington Post story.

But what does it take to actually end homelessness – not just for veterans, but for others who find themselves living on the streets? How does a city as large as Houston harness the can-do spirit that’s such a part of its mythology to bring together the myriad entities who work with the poor, the unemployed, the oft-forgotten to bring out those organizations’ strengths and solve a problem that seems impossible to fix?

It takes The Way Home, a massive initiative that corrals the best talents of some of Houston’s nonprofit organizations, local and federal resources, a finely tuned response system, the creation of new housing, all of it blended with compassion and creativity. It takes a level of partnership that was years in the making. It takes a belief that while it might not seem that one person can make much of a difference for one person living on the street, one agency working in partnership with another can – and will.

And many of the entities that are part of The Way Home are Downtown. And the work they are doing is changing the face of our neighborhood, making not only a difference for the people helped, but showing the world why our city core is a place where problems get solved and lives are made better. Their commitment to partnership and combining strengths is no small feat. And the big results they’re achieving are transforming who we are as a neighborhood.

T he His t ory oF M a kin g His t ory “We all want a healthy community to work in and live in,” says Mandy Champan Semple, special assistant to the mayor for homeless initiatives. Her office spearheads multiple homeless outreach efforts, including The Way Home.

Getting there, however, has been a three-decade journey that’s seen its share of inconsistencies, turf fights and failures. Certainly, there have always been people who found themselves on the street. Consider the Great Depression, when entire families found themselves

homeless, sometimes nomadic, living in shanty towns across the continent. Here in Houston, efforts to address the homeless existed in piecemeal fashion throughout the 20th century; in 1982, at the urging of Reverend William Lawson, Bishop Joseph Fiorenza and Rabbi Samuel Karff, then-Mayor Kathy Whitmire and Harris County Judge Jon Lindsay brought together several service providers to begin what would become the Coalition for the Homeless.

There was just one problem: the group didn’t have much funding with which to work until 1988, and the passage of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. That act was designed to provide federal funding to states to support homeless shelters and programming designed to assist those without permanent housing.

The opportunity for grant money meant that both the Coalition for the Homeless and other nonprofits who worked to assist homeless populations could petition the federal government for grant dollars for everything from building shelters to creating education programs designed to encourage upward mobility. For 20 years, dozens of entities worked separately to attempt to stem the tide of homelessness. There were successes, certainly, but there were also inefficiencies, as agencies found themselves overlapping on the services they provided, and sometimes overreaching in attempting to do more.

The Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Houston (HEARTH) Act, passed in 2009, built on the McKinney-Vento Act, consolidating grant programs administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and changing HUD’s definition of homelessness and chronic homelessness. It also mandated an increase in prevention resources and placed an emphasis on outcomes.

In short, it was an act that told cities and states that they needed to find ways to be more effective in providing solutions to homelessness. The HUD definition of homelessness as outlined in the HEARTH Act includes, in part, individuals and families who lack fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence; individuals and families who will imminently lose their primary nighttime residence; and individuals and families who are fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence.

Houston took those mandates to heart, and since 2012, the city’s homeless population has decreased by 37 percent, and the number of chronically homeless, those caught in a cycle of having jobs and homes, then losing both, and repeating the cycle, has dropped by 57 percent.

Three thousand veterans have received housing.

“The idea of ending homeless is possible,” says Semple.

“We can create a system where we’re helping those who experience housing instability.”

Over the last three years, 2,500 chronically homeless and 3,650 veterans were placed in permanent housing. In addition, Houston’s system has given them stability to stay in homes.

That system includes everything from high-tech solutions to boots-on-the-ground volunteers and social service providers, working in tandem to help those in desperate need of shelter. And the fact that multiple entities are working together on a program of this

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26 magnitude is a testament to the city’s commitment to care for its citizens. Downtown Houston, in particular, sees both the best and the worst of the issue.

“The Downtown core tends to experience the impact [of homelessness] the most because the services are there,” says Semple, who notes that the very reasons people want to live and work Downtown – access to transportation, easy walkability, multiple city service providers in a compact area – are the exact same reasons homeless populations come to the city core.

Usin g Data t o Imp rove L i ve s The Way Home seeks to end chronic and veteran homelessness by the end of 2015, as well as put an end to family and youth homelessness by 2020. Another of its cornerstones is the creation of a system where no one is without permanent housing for more than 30 days.

Reaching those goals takes the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), a series of data points that help put the chronically homeless into housing. In addition to providing a real-time listing of housing options available, the system also creates individual action plans for those who need homes.

A homeless vet, for example, might register with the system, meeting with a counselor who can help not only find housing, but can put him in touch with job providers and social service providers who can help ensure he’s taking any medication necessary or getting treatment.

That data system works in tandem with something called Permanent Supportive Housing, or PSH, which combines deeply subsidized affordable housing with comprehensive, individual services. The system allows individuals to select their living spaces, in many cases, instead of being assigned to a particular place.

Case workers then partner with them to help with medical care and other elements of the transition from homelessness to housing. It’s a monumental undertaking that’s changed thousands of lives.

And that kind of coordinated effort takes not only an army of agencies, it takes a collaborative mindset.

“Over the last three years, providers came together to do whatever it takes to help end this problem,” says Semple. “Leaders of organizations realized that they could combine their efforts to offer bigger solutions and be part of a long-term strategy. And then, Mayor Parker put political capital behind it, which paved the way for agencies to work together on this.”

There was also a mindset shift toward helping people find permanent homes, instead of helping them find places to sleep in shelters.

“It was a transition, and change is sometimes hard,” says Marilyn Brown, president and CEO of the Coalition for the Homeless, which offers administrative support for the organizations that serve the homeless.

The organization also coordinates the annual, federally mandated count of the city’s homeless population, which Brown says means more than 500 volunteers fan

201 5 C ome to t he Tabl e Houston’s chefs will pull out all the stops for the 5th Annual Come to the Table event, benefitting The Beacon. Slated for Sept. 24, the food-and-wine-paring dinner offers the culinary stylings of Philippe Gaston, Mark Holley, Hugo Ortega, John Sheely and Claire Smith, among others. It will be held at the Beacon Day Center. $500 for individual tickets $5,000 and up for tables.

Come to the Table Chefs 2015 (left to right): John Sheely from Mockingbird Bistro Wine Bar; Claire Smith from Canopy, Shade, and Woodbar; Mark Holley from Holley’s Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar; Hugo Ortega and Ruben Ortega from Hugo’s, Backstreet Cafe, and Caracol; Philippe Gaston from Izakaya; Randy Evans, director/executive chef for H-E-B Restaurants; Manabu “Hori” Horiuchi from Kata Robata; Mike Puccio from The Beacon. Not pictured: Efisio Farris from Arcodoro and Fernando Rios from Weights and Measures

27 the streets of Downtown, Harris and Ft. Bend counties to take a census of the homeless population. “Before 2009, many organizations were doing all their own work, trying to do everything: providing services, keeping up with federal paperwork. We manage those federal efforts now, and that helps partner organizations concentrate on providing services.”

If it’s starting to sound like there are a lot of moving parts to the system, consider that there used to be many more. Since 2009 and the streamlining of resources, the process for getting people into a system that can help them end their homelessness has meant that more and more people have been helped. And as more affordable housing and single residency occupancy (SRO) options have come online, those listings are input into the HMIS, giving case workers more options to help those who need places to live.

C onnect i on is Ke y More than the data points, more than housing options, there is a vital human touch necessary for working to end homelessness. Organizations around Downtown provide badly needed services for those living on the streets, and their ability to reach out and help on the ground level is vital to the success of The Way Home.

One of those is the Beacon, a 501c3 nonprofit started by Christ Church Cathedral in 2007. The organization provides showers, laundry services and hot meals to the homeless, Thursdays through Sundays. The Beacon’s day center allows those who need them to reserve showers in 15-minute increments. Volunteers staff the laundry services and meal distribution.

Charly Weldon, executive director for the Beacon, says that the new streamlined system is vital to solving the problem of homelessness.

“Working together with our partner entities puts the needs of our clients ahead of the needs of individual agencies,” she says. “And when you look at it that way, you see how, working together, we have a much stronger effort.”

Org a ni z at i ons a round D own t own p rovide b a dly needed servi c e s f or t h o se l i vin g on t he s t ree t s,

SE ARCH’S M OBIL E O U TRE ACH P RO GR AM RE ACHE S THO SE WHO L ACK ANY S UP P ORT SYS TEM .

and t heir abil i t y to re ac h o u t and hel p on t he gro und l e vel is vi tal to t he s uc c es s of T he Way H ome.

28

“Volunteer,” says Semple emphatically, when asked what people who want to assist in the effort to end homelessness can do. It’s better than giving money directly to people on the street, and can provide a broader impact.

H ow to Hel p

Those looking for volunteer opportunities – everything from serving meals to working as part of a response system – can visit the following websites:

thewayhomehouston . org The Way Home links volunteers with partner organizations that most need services.

All of the agencies above accept donations as well. Donations made to agencies provide for muchneeded outreach and operations support and have a larger impact that giving to an individual.

She and many others who do the kind of work she does insist on using the word client when talking about the people for whom they are offering necessary services.

“Every person is worthy of respect, every person deserves dignity,” she says. “We make sure we give our clients name tags when they come through our doors. It may seem like a small thing, but the very act of saying, ‘Good morning, Bob’ can have a huge impact on someone in this situation.”

Making an impact is, of course, what agencies want in order to help those who most need it. And recognizing how to change operations in order to do that has been a hallmark for the partner agencies who work under the umbrella of The Way Home initiative. Consider SEARCH Homeless Services, another Downtown agency that provides support and programming designed to end homelessness.

“All the nonprofits who work with people want to be able to respond to their needs,” says Thao Costis, president and CEO of the organization that offers job readiness training, daycare and housing coordination.

“And as our clients told us the things they wanted and needed, we stretched to provide them – but we were

beaconhomeless . org Volunteers do laundry, serve meals and assist with client reception.

searchhomeless . org Volunteers assist with the SEARCH Mobile Outreach team, help clients with paperwork, work in the kitchen and conduct drives for needed supplies.

spreading ourselves too thin.”

Costis and SEARCH looked at what the organization did best, and concentrated on that. The group broke ground in 2014 on new headquarters Downtown – a building located at Chartres and Congress that will be half the size of its current location.

“As we adjusted our business model, we realized we needed to shrink to grow,” said Costis. The group will continue to help place the homeless in jobs and provide daycare services for those who have obtained work but lack the sufficient funds for childcare. But, says Costis, “we partner with those who provide housing now, so we don’t need a day shelter.”

She emphasized that her staff ’s ability to work oneon-one with clients to assist them in finding jobs and navigating a complicated system, as well as reaching out to those who have given up hope is a huge foundation for SEARCH’s operations.

“Many of the people we see don’t have a support system. Maybe they come from broken families, maybe they were born into crushing poverty. We try to help keep them motivated, to let them know they can succeed, that we can help them.”

Recognizing what agencies do best and how to

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VOLUN TEERS AT THE BE AC ON HEL P SERVE ME AL S AND S TAFF THE L AUNDRY SERVICE S.

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search provides daycare services for those who have found work but can’ t afford childcare.

31 continue doing so has been a core part of The Way Home. Since its inception, the initiative has placed an emphasis on all the agencies involved working together to solve a larger issue. And if there were growing pains to start, the results that have been achieved have not only shown the partner organizations how working together is a vital part of the solution for homelessness – it’s shown the nation that Houston is a leader.

“It’s been a process,” says Weldon. “And we really didn’t have a blueprint on how to do this. But now, Houston is the blueprint. And that’s inspiring.”

C oe x is t in g If realizing that Downtown organizations have been part of a massive effort to combat one of the most important problems of the last two decades is inspiring, it’s worth noting that there has always been a population of those who live on the street. There’s a transient population, often made up of panhandlers and drug users, who, no matter how sophisticated a response system is put into place, resist help.

This population is different from the chronically homeless, even if it appears to Downtown dwellers and workers to be the same.

“There are multiple kinds of homelessness,” says Guy Hagstette, who serves as president of The Beacon’s board of directors and is also a Downtown property owner. “And for many of us fortunate enough to live in Downtown, we’ve been able, for much of our lives, to insulate ourselves from the reality of what’s out there. Part of being Downtown is realizing that not everyone looks like you and not everyone has been able to have the things that you have. My experience with the Beacon has taught me that.”

A F is c a lly S o und S olut i on , A C o mpa s si on at e A p p roac h Hagstette’s call for compassion is echoed by those who work with the homeless.

“I say to people, it’s only by the grace of God that it isn’t me,” says Weldon. “Many people are one major illness, one catastrophic event away from being homeless, and taking measures to support ending homelessness makes what we call human sense.”

It also makes fiscal sense. The chronically homeless make up about 25 percent of the homeless population – but consume 75 percent of services, including emergency room care, costing $103 million annually. It winds up costing far less money to help an individual through initiatives like The Way Home, to get people housed, and offer the support they need to live better lives. The building of more housing for families battling homelessness, as well as single occupancy spaces, brings stability to those facing this epic challenge, and the dollars invested result in many

of those individuals not being homeless again. Is there more that needs to be done? Yes. More housing stock needs to be built, and sometimes it takes outreach and multiple conversations to get someone into the system.

But the foundation is laid, and it is something strong upon which to build.

That kind of fiscal underscoring, as well as the datadriven approach to battling homelessness is one that businesses appreciate, says Semple. “They appreciate the accountability, and that we’re looking at what the most cost-effective solutions for this problem are. The ways all the partner organizations are working now, it not only helps maximize savings, it also leverages strengths across a whole system. It takes a village. If there’s a theme, it’s really that.”

“I came to this country from Vietnam in 1975,” says Costis. “And strangers helped me and my parents assimilate and rebuild our lives. That really left a mark on me: that you can help others. That small steps lead to great things. We have so many great nonprofits doing this great work. And there is a place for everybody to help.”

s m al l s t ep s l e ad to gre at t hing s.

We have s o m a ny gre at n onp rof i t s d oin g t his gre at work . A nd t here is a p l ac e f or e veryb ody t o hel p .

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the guide to eating downtown

L 17 Restaurant The New American Found in the lobby of the luxurious Sam Houston Hotel, this lush and lavish destination oozes elegance. Detailed American cuisine and smart service make this a restaurant of note. thesamhoustonhotel.com.

1117 Prairie, 832.200.8800. D Daily. $$$ Andalucia Restaurant & Bar Tapas/Spanish Dim lighting, large wooden tables and heavy iron accents provide for a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

The menu features large dishes, such as paella for up to 16 people, and tapas that range from the traditional such as gambas al ajillo (shrimp cooked in olive oil and garlic) and empanadas, to veal tongue and oxtail. andaluciatapas.com. GreenStreet, 1201 San Jacinto, 832.319.6675. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. $$ L Artista American Artista offers inspirational contemporary American cuisine and theatrical ambiance with high ceilings, glass walls and sweeping views of the Downtown skyline. cordua.com. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby, 713.278.4782.

L Mon-Fri; D Mon-Sat (Open for L & D on Sun only if a theater performance is scheduled). $$$ L Azuma Sushi & Robata Bar Japanese/Sushi Voted “Best Sushi in Houston” by Citysearch.com, this new-age Japanese restaurant is anything but typical.

The ambience is terrific, the sushi is innovative and fresh and the outside seating area provides great people watching. azumajapanese.com. 909 Texas, 713.223.0909. L Mon-Fri; D Mon-Sun; LN Fri & Sat. $$ Ballpark Café American Enjoy the allAmerican cuisine and a nostalgic atmosphere for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Just across the street from Minute Maid Park, Ballpark Café is a great place to have a pre/post-game meal. westin.com/Houston-Downtown. The Westin Houston Downtown, 1520 Texas, 713.228.1520.

B & L Daily. $ L Bangkok Chef Thai A casual Thai joint that keeps booths packed with hungry downtowners looking for eclectic dishes to satisfy their spice cravings. And there’s a pretty tempting happy hour for drinks and nibbles under $5. bkchef.com. 914 Main Street, #125, 713.659.1600. L & D Mon-Sat. $$ L Barnaby’s at Market Square American A local favorite, Barnaby’s serves up oversized sandwiches, salads and burgers, putting a Southwest spin on traditional deli dishes. Colorful murals adorn the walls of the restaurant along with large windows for a perfect view of the park. barnabyscafe.com. 801 Congress, 713.226.8787. L Mon-Sat; D Fri-Sat. $ L Batanga Tapas + Drinks Latin This tapas joint whips up delicious dishes inspired from Spain, Brazil, Mexico, Chile – anywhere that sangria is served. The spacious patio is as good as it gets when it comes to outdoor dining with its festive twinkle lights, great music and stellar views of the Historic District and Market Square Park. batangahouston.com. 908 Congress, 713.224.9500.

L & D Daily. BR Sat & Sun. $$ L Benihana of Tokyo Japanese While some restaurants allow their guests to view the kitchen, this Japa-

nese grill brings the kitchen to you. Benihana chefs set up shop right in front of your table. The meal is made from scratch, and you can witness the entire show. benihana.com. 1318 Louisiana, 713.659.8231.

L & D Daily. $$$

include brisket tacos, meatloaf muffins on top of jalapeno mash, 1836 beer can chicken and a variety of burgers. Not to metion over 42 beers and six hand-crafted cocktails on tap! bovineandbarley.com.

416 Main. 832.742.5683. L, D & LN Daily. $$

Birraporetti’s Italian This Italian restaurant/Irish bar is a Theater District staple. Their delicious pizzas continue to hit the spot, while items such as the chicken picatta and La Dolce Vita have become standouts. Enjoy a signature dessert to finish the meal. birrarestaurant.com. 500 Louisiana, 713.224.9494. L, D & LN Daily. $$

Brazos Restaurant American Upscale seafood and casual American fare come together in a Texaschic atmosphere. Newly refurbished, black booths and white tablecloths offer elegance and décor not typically found in hotel restaurants. Crowne Plaza Hotel, 1700 Smith, 713.495.7854. B, L & D Daily. $$$

The Bistro American The Bistro is a full-service restaurant serving up breakfast and dinner in a casual atmosphere. Courtyard by Marriott, 916 Dallas, 832.366.1600. B & D Daily. $

L Brown Bag Deli Fast Casual Located in the Houston Club building, Brown Bag Deli serves up tasty, fresh sandwiches “just like you like it.” Known for its fluffy, soft bread you won’t be disappointed and neither will your wallet. thebrownbagdeli.net. 702 Main, 713.224.7000. L Mon-Fri. $

L Bistro Lancaster New American Located in the historic Lancaster Hotel, this cozy getaway is a great place to dine before catching a show in the Theater District. You’ll find hearty soups, sizzling steaks and savory seafood. thelancaster.com. Lancaster Hotel, 701 Texas, 713.228.9502. B, L & D Daily. $$$$ L Blue by Massa Seafood This upscale and elegant restaurant offers up a fine selection of American and Seafood cuisine. Among the esteemed list of favorites, the Lobster Bisque is a standout. Superior service and a great dining atmosphere allow guests to enjoy a memorable dining experience. Blue also offers occasional live entertainment and dancing is highly encouraged! massas.com. 1160 Smith, 713.650.0837. L Mon-Fri; D Mon-Sat. $$ Blue Fish Sushi Japanese Not your typical Japanese restaurant. Don’t expect small, minimal décor. Be prepared for innovative sushi in a high-energy atmosphere at Bayou Place. thebluefishsushi.com. 550 Texas, 713.225.3474. L Mon-Fri; D Mon-Sat. $$ Bombay Indian Grill Indian Bombay Indian Grill is a Maharaja treat in Downtown Houston serving an extensive menu of authentic Indian cuisine. 706 Main St, 832.269.5303. L & D Mon-Sat. $ L Bombay Pizza Co. Indian Fusion Fusing the cuisines of India with pizza, innovative creations are served on a homemade, dense, thin and crispy crust. Try the saag paneer, which is topped with fresh spinach and four cheeses or the Gateway to India topped with cilantro, tandoori chicken, garlic and artichoke hearts. bombaypizzaco.com. 914 Main, 713.654.4444. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat. $ Bon Jour Café Deli Offering soups, sandwiches and salads. 945 Capitol, 713.237.0419. B & L Mon-Fri. $ Bouray’s Burrito Bar Fast Food Bouray’s offers made-to-order Mexican and Vietnamese food using ingredients that are prepared fresh daily. bourays.com.

609 Clay, 713.652.5999. L Mon-Fri. $ L Bovine & Barley American Bovine & Barley is a beautifully designed urban bar and eatery with a heavy focus on beef and beer. The space has an industrial feel which is complimented by warm wood accents and huge HTX letters that hang illuminated on an exposed brick wall. Highlights from the menu

Buzz Barista Coffee House This full-service espresso bar offers much more than caffeinated beverages for a morning fix. People on the go can grab freshbaked pastries, Naked juices, yogurt parfaits and fruit cups along with their brewed delights. B & L Mon-Fri. 811 Main, 713.228.3033. $ The Cafe American Located in the lobby of the Hilton Americas. An elaborate buffet is offered for breakfast, with a la carte selections from the menu available for lunch and dinner. Hilton Americas, 1600 Lamar, 713.739.8000. B, L, D & LN Daily. $$ L Cafe Express Fast Casual Need to grab a quick lunch? Cafe Express is an informal yet sophisticated choice. You can always find a variety of delicious entrees, salads and sandwiches. cafe-express.com.

650 Main, 713.237.9222. B & L Mon-Sat. $ new! Calabash Island Eats Caribbean Calabash Island Eats is a unique dining experience which brings all the flavors of the Caribbean together under one

key to symbols These listings are not reviews but are a guide to downtown dining spots.

"Recommended" restaurants are selected

by Downtown Magazine editors and are based on food quality, menu selection, service, ambiance and value.

L recommended new! just opened new location NEW LOCATION

average price of an entrée $ - $10 or less $$ - $11-$19 $$$ - $20-$29 $$$$ - $30+

B: Breakfast BR: Brunch L: Lunch D: Dinner LN: Late Night

For a searchable database of downtown Houston restaurants by cuisine, location and price, visit downtownhouston.org and click on Guide.

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plate.

CAL ABASH ISL AND EATS 1919 PEASE Street 832.529.6282

PHOTOS BY TŌMAN IMAGERY

cal abashisl andeats.com

Lessons in the Rhythm of Spice and Flavor N e w r e s ta u r a n t g i v e s D o w n t o w n a Ca r i b b ea n f l a i r

By Nicole Marin Houston is easily one of the most diverse cities in the country.

It’s evident in the different people you see walking down the street every day and even more so in the city’s culinary scene. But Grenadian native turned Houstonian, Gen Barclay, saw a void in the market when it came to restaurants in Houston that serve up authentic Caribbean food and even better live music.

There are over 7,000 individual islands that make up the Caribbean, including Cuba, Jamaica, Barbados and the Bahamas. And many of them are top travel destinations. “I noticed lots of people would visit the Caribbean Islands and have a great time, then return to Houston with no access to the same flavors or sounds they experienced while on vacation,” says Barclay, owner of the new Downtown restaurant, Calabash Island Eats.

Calabash, the first restaurant of its kind in Houston, combines the diverse flavor profile of the top 21 islands into its menu using a largely Caribbean staff, “We have an older kitchen staff made up of people from all over the Caribbean including Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Trinidad and Tobago, so the tastes are definitely more authentic,” says Barclay.

Calabash, the multipurpose fruit that the restaurant is named after, may not be found in any of the actual dishes, but it is still very much a part of the dining experience in its use as a bowl for guests. The menu itself includes traditional Caribbean dishes with familiar elements, such as curries, jerk seasonings and

delicious vegetables. Specialties include a whole fried fish, the Calabash lamb burger served with cou cou fries, and the must-try dish, the Miss Piggy, which is roasted pulled pork served with Puerto Rican rice and plantains. Whatever you do, come hungry!

Keeping with the Caribbean spirit, the restaurant also includes an island-inspired Rhum Bar which provides tropical cocktails you can sip while dancing to live calypso, soca and reggae music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Don’t skip the outdoor patio and raised dining deck, which doubles as a cigar lounge and the perfect place to wind down after a long day!

Monday 11 am – 2 PM Tuesday–Wednesday 11 am – 10 Pm THURSDAY 11 AM – 12 AM Friday–Saturday 11 Am – 2 am Sunday 11 Am – 8 PM

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roof. Sample various curry flavors, jerk seasonings and delicious sides such as fried plantains. Keeping with the Caribbean spirit, the restaurant also includes an island inspired Rhum Bar, a cigar patio and a stage set for live calypso and reggae music! Just one block from Toyota Center, this is the perfect spot for a pre-game or post-concert dinner with drinks! calabashislandeats.com. 1919 Pease. 713.739.9038.

D, LN Sat-Sun. $$ L China Garden Chinese A popular Chinese restaurant, China Garden has been serving downtown for more than 30 years. Their egg rolls and lemon chicken have become favorites. 1602 Leeland, 713.652.0745. L Mon-Fri. D Daily. $ Chipotle Mexican Known for its large portions, this Mexican fast casual spot offers a variety of wholesome menu items. chipotle.com. 909 Texas, 713.225.6633. L & Early D Mon-Fri. $ L Corner Bakery Fast Casual A bakery cafe, offering fresh breads, salads, sandwiches, soups and sweets in a casual atmosphere. Located right on Main Street Square, you can’t beat the people watching or just relax and watch the rail line and Main Street Square’s jumping fountains. cornerbakery.com. 1000 Main, 713.651.0673. B & L Mon-Fri. $ L Crossroads at House of Blues Southern Classic Crossroads at HOB serves Southern-inspired classic dishes such as voodoo shrimp, St. Louis ribs and the Cajun classic, Creole jambalaya. Praise the Lord and pass the biscuits, you can’t miss Kirk Franklin’s Sunday Gospel Brunch. hob.com. GreenStreet, 1204 Caroline, 888.402.5837. L & D Daily. $$ Domino’s Pizza 975 McKinney, 713.227.3030. $ Don Patron Bar & Grill Mexican Good Mexican food and margaritas, Don Patron is great for lunch and a good spot for an after-work happy hour. Available on weekends for private parties. donpatron.com.

500 Dallas, One Allen Center. B, L & D Mon-Fri. $$ The Downtown Aquarium Seafood The menu features a huge variety and offers something for everyone. While dining, guests are surrounded by a 150,000-gallon aquarium. Enjoy the sights and a great meal at this family-friendly spot. aquariumrestaurants.com. 410 Bagby, 713.223.3474.

L & D Daily. $$ L Droubi Bro. Mediterranean Grill Mediterranean This authentic Mediterranean grill offers up a quick and satisfying spot for lunch. Pita sandwiches are popular. 507 Dallas, 713.652.0058. L Mon-Fri. $ Eats Mesquite Grill Classic American Craving a burger downtown? Popular for its juicy burgers and great-tasting fries, Eats makes for a great lunchtime stop. Guests can make their burgers exactly how they like them. 804 Milam, 713.223.3287. L MonFri. $ L Einstein’s Bagels Deli Known as a great place to grab freshly-baked bagels and coffee for breakfast, they also serve up delectable lunch choices that include paninis, melts and pizza bagels. Be an office hero and use the catering service to treat

your work pals. einsteinbros.com. 1200 Louisiana, 713.375.4775. B, L & LN Mon-Sun. $ L El Big Bad Mexican Brought to you by the El Gran Malo crew, this casual Tex-Mex restaurant brings hand-crafted tequila infusions, specialty margaritas and craft beers to the table. The gastrocantina-inspired menu is chock full of tasty tacos with fresh toppings like pomegranate salsa, charred scallions, pumpkin seeds and more. elbigbad.com.

419 Travis, 713.229.8181. L, D & LN Mon-Fri; D & LN Sat & Sun, BR Sun. $$ Flying Saucer Pub Fare Offering more than 200 beers, almost half on draft, Flying Saucer is a beer drinker’s paradise. Excellent staff and tasty eats give the place an identity all its own. beerknurd.com. 705 Main, 713.228.7468. L, D & LN Daily. $ L Frank’s Pizza Pizza Home of the “late-night slice,” Frank’s Pizza has built a quality reputation for itself serving up delicious food in a great atmosphere.

Not only can you grab a slice of pizza, Frank’s also serves up darn good hamburgers, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, Buffalo wings, lasagna and salads. frankspizza.com. 417 Travis, 713.225.5656. L & D Daily; LN Fri & Sat. $ L Fusion Taco Latin/Japanese Taking the best from Asian and Latin cuisine, Fusion Taco comes up with creations like jerk chicken tacos, chicken tikka masala quesadillas and Asian pulled pork flautas.

An extensive beer and wine selection rounds out the menu. fusiontaco.com. 801 Congress, 713.422.2882.

L & D Mon-Sat. $ L The Grove American Rustic This two-story, ultra-urban restaurant is found at Discovery Green.

The menu features rustic American cuisine such as Gulf Coast seafood, steaks and signature rotisserie dishes. grovehouston.com. Discovery Green, 1611 Lamar, 713.337.7321. L & D Daily. $$$ L Guadalajara del Centro Mexican This familyowned restaurant consistently serves up tasty food in a new, very cool environment. It’s the perfect place to bring the family or a large group of co-workers or friends. Great happy hour specials. guadalajarahacienda.com. GreenStreet, 1201 San Jacinto, 713.650.0101. L & D Daily. $$ Hard Rock Café Classic American What do you get when you mix a music-themed diner with an all-American menu? Hard Rock is a great familyfriendly spot serving up items such as burgers,nachos and chicken varieties. hardrock.com. Bayou Place, 570 Texas, 713.227.1392. L, D & LN Daily. $$ L Hearsay Gastro Lounge New American Located in a beautifully refurbished historic building, this upscale restaurant and lounge serves up delicious sandwiches, salads and entrees. They feature an extensive wine list, numerous beers on draft and bottle and premium liquors with a focus on Scotch whisky. hearsayhouston.com. 218 Travis, 713.225.8079. L Daily; D Mon-Sat; LN Fri-Sat. $$ L Hearsay on the Green American Located inside the Embassay Suites in Downtown’s Convention District, this upscale restaurant and lounge serves up

the finest craft cocktails, New-American dishes and a chic dining experience. The drink menu features an extensive wine list, numerous bottle and draft beers and pre-mium liquors. hearsayhouston.com. 1515 Dallas St, 832.377.3362. L & D Daily, LN Fri-Sat, BR Sun. $$ Home Plate Bar & Grill Classic American A great hangout spot before or after an Astros ballgame. Enjoy a full menu of all-American favorites. homeplategrill.com. 1800 Texas, 713.222.1993. L & D Daily (may close earlier during off-season so call first). $ L The Honeymoon Cafe+Bar American The Honeymoon brews local Boomtown Coffee, has perfectly hand-crafted cocktails and satisfies the appetite with light bites and delectably sweet treats! With all the natural lighting, the ambiance is like a dream! thehoneymoonhtx.com. 300 Main St. B, L, LN Daily. $ L Hubcap Grill American Classic Small but packs a punch. One of the best burger joints in town. 1111 Prairie, 713.223.5885. L Mon-Sat. $ L Irma’s Mexican Irma Galvan has been crowned Houston’s Tex-Mex goddess. This authentic spot is a longtime favorite among Houston politicos and downtown business people. Traditional, homecooked Mexican cuisine is served for breakfast and lunch on weekdays. 22 North Chenevert, 713.222.0767. B & L Mon-Fri; D Thu-Sat. $$ L Irma’s Southwest Grill Mexican Irma’s second location is a hip spot to satisfy a Mexican food craving. Enjoy tasty foods and great drinks for lunch or dinner. Only a few short blocks from Minute Maid Park. irmassouthwest.com. 1314 Texas, 713.247.9651. B & L Mon-Fri; D Mon-Sat. Open on Astros baseball game days and nights three hours before first pitch. $$ L Jackson St. BBQ Barbecue This laid-back spot by renowned Houston chefs Bryan Caswell, Bill Floyd and Greg Gaitlin offers smoked brisket, ribs, chicken, sausage and classic southern fixins like potato salad, baked beans, collard greens and cole slaw! Conveniently located across from Minute Maid Park, stop by this Downtown favorite before or after Astros games! jacksonstbbqhouston.com. 209 Jackson St. 713.224.2400. L,D Sat-Sun. Jason’s Deli Deli Order to please, Jason’s will make your sandwich or salad exactly how you like it. jasonsdeli.com. 901 McKinney, 713.650.1500. B & L Mon-Fri. $ Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches Deli All subs are served on your choice of fresh-baked French bread or thick-sliced seven-grain bread or try the low-carb lettuce wrap: all the regular sandwich ingredients without the bread. jimmyjohns.com. 820 Main, 713.222.9995. L Mon-Sat. $ L The Lake House Fast Casual Offering familyfriendly food, featuring burgers, Kobe beef hot dogs, salads, shakes, wine and beer. Located on Kinder Lake, there is a large patio where you can watch model boats race across the water or listen to some live music from the nearby stage.

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plate. thelakehousehouston.com. Discovery Green, 1611 Lamar. L Tue & Wed, L & Early D Thu-Sun. $ L La Palapa Fast Food A Courthouse District favorite, there’s always a line at this free-standing pink concession stand for breakfast tacos and hamburgers. 1110 Preston, 713.228.9620. B & L Mon-Fri. $ Lacey’s Deli Deli The sandwiches are fresh, tasty, and affordable. We recommend the Italian Stallion which has homemade meatballs and marinara with sliced beef and sausage. laceysdeli.com. 416 Caroline, 713.237.0000. L Mon-Fri. $ L Last Concert Cafe Mexican Tucked away in the Warehouse District, this Tex-Mex cafe was born in 1949 and still supplies tasty food and local music today. Spend some time on the leafy back patio and you’ll swear you’re in your neighbor’s backyard throwing back a cold one. lastconcert.com.

1403 Nance, 713.226.8563. L Mon-Fri; D MonSun; LN Fri-Sat; Bar & live music Tue-Sat. $ L Line & Lariat Modern American An awardwinning dining experience located in the historic lobby of Hotel Icon’s landmark bank building.

The intimate dining room is extravagant, and the exquisite dishes from the Gulf Coast and South Texas emphasize fresh ingredients. A contemporary lounge with a modern setting for cocktails and an elegant after-work meeting place. hotelicon.com. Hotel Icon, 220 Main, 832.667.4470.

B Daily; D Mon-Sat. $$$ Little Napoli Italian Theater and moviegoers can now enjoy these southern Italian dishes before the big show! The healthy options, such as whole wheat pizza crust and low-fat cheeses, are a nice touch. littlenapoli.net. 540 Texas, 713.225.3900. $$ Lone Star Taco Tex-Mex Fast-casual Tex-Mex restaurant, specializing in great tacos! Lone Star Taco quickly serves artisanal quality, made-fresh tacos at an affordable price. txlonestartaco.com. 1001 Texas St, 713.223.8226. B, L, D Daily. $ Luby’s, etc. American Enjoy an incredible view of downtown along with 10 food stations offering a wide variety of goodies: a build-your-own salad bar, made-to-order grill, pizza by-the-slice, delightful deli, global café and traditional Luby’s cafeteria line with all the classic dishes. lubysetc.com. 1301Fannin, 13th Floor, 713.759.9954. B & L Mon–Fri. $ Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge American Bowlers and patrons relax on sleek leather couches and enjoy floor-to-ceiling video screens that flash movie clips and music videos as DJs deliver danceable grooves.

Delectable munchies are available lane-side and in the lounge. bowlluckystrike.com. GreenStreet, 1201 San Jacinto, Level 3, 713.343.3300. L, D & LN Daily. $$ L Main Kitchen American Named Main Kitchen to reflect its location on Main Street and the hopes of becoming a staple in Houston’s culinary scene, the restaurant seats 120 and boasts an

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exhibition kitchen providing guests with an insight into thechefs’ creative process. jwmarriotthotelhouston.com/main-kitchen.

806 Main St, 713.400.1245. B, L, D Daily. $$ � L Market Square Bar & Grill American This Chicago-style neighborhood hangout is a local favorite. Boasting a handful of “fire-powered” burgers, Market Square offers plenty of reasons to stop by for a meal or drink. The backyard patio, friendly staff and full bar add flavor. marketsquarehouston.com.

311 Travis, 713.224.6133. L, D & LN Mon-Sat. $ L Massa’s South Coast Grill Seafood Like its sister restaurant, you can count on superior service and a great dining atmosphere. Conveniently located close to the convention center and Toyota Center, it’s a prime spot for lunch and dinner. massas.com.

The Shops at Houston Center, 1331 Lamar, 713.655.9100. L Mon-Fri; D Mon-Sat. $$ L McCormick & Schmick’s Seafood The extensive menu changes daily depending on each day’s fresh seafood deliveries. With more than 80 preparations on the menu each day, every guest is sure to find something to satisfy their palate. mccormickandschmicks.com. GreenStreet, 1201 Fannin, 713.658.8100. L & D Daily. $$$ McDonald’s Fast Food 808 Dallas @ Milam, 713.651.9449. B & L Daily; D Mon-Fri. $ L Mia Bella Italian You’ll enjoy an eclectic variety of Italian cuisine blended with a Mediterranean feel. A longtime favorite, this intimate little bistro’s simple, yet appealing décor, makes it a downtown standout. bellarestaurants.com.

GreenStreet, 1201 San Jacinto, 832.319.6675.

320 Main, 713.237.0505 L & D Daily; LN Fri & Sat. $$ L Minuti Coffee Coffee House The coffee is created by a roast master in Italy, before making its way into the hands of talented baristas. This is the perfect place to bring the laptop and take advantage of Minuti’s free Wi-Fi. They also have beer and wine, which makes it a great pre/post theater spot. Be sure to sample some of the fresh-baked pastries and smoothies, too. minuticoffee.com. 909 Texas, 281.265.3344.

B, L, D & LN Daily. $ L MKT Bar Mediterranean Part of Phoenicia Specialty Foods, it's the perfect place to stop when you need a chill moment. The bar offers coffee, pastries, wine, beer, gourmet pizza and other yummy nibbles for which Phoenicia is known. phoeniciafoods.com. 1001 Austin, 832.360.2222.

B, L, D, Daily. $ new! The Moonshiners American The Moonshiners Southern Table + Bar offers up a rebellious respite in the bustling urban backdrop of Downtown Houston. The restaurant celebrates and elevates southern culinary traditions serving up moonshine and whiskey in mason jars alongside generous portions of southern comfort foods such as fried

chicken, shrimp and grits, and pulled pork sandwiches. 1000 Prairie. 713.226.7717. L, D Mon-Fri. LN Fri & Sat. $$ L Morton’s Steakhouse This award-winning steakhouse offers an outstanding menu. The downtown location features its new bar concept, Bar 12•21, which includes an impressive wine and martini menu along with its specially priced “bar bites.” mortons.com. 1001 McKinney, 713.659.3700.

L Mon-Fri ; D Daily. $$$$ Murphy’s Deli Deli Indulge in a variety of sandwiches and salads. Hot or cold, Murphy’s specializes in creating your sandwich any way it’s ordered. murphysdeli.com. 601 Jefferson, 713.652.4939. 1021 Main, 713.275.1912.440 Louisiana, 713.247.9122. B & L Mon-Fri all locations. $ L Niko Niko’s Greek & American Houston icon Dimitri Fetokakis opened his cafe in 2010 at Market Square Park. Favorties such as the gyro and kebob are on the menu along with new items such as the breakfast pita. Specialty coffee drinks, beer and wine also available. nikonikos.com. Market Square Park, 301 Milam. B, L, D Daily. $ L Pappas BBQ Barbecue Voted one of Houston’s best year after year, this barbecue joint offers an excellent selection with Texas-sized portions.

Traditional favorites such as brisket, ribs, sausage and ham are served with Pappas’ flare. Delivery and take-out are available. pappasbbq.com. 1217 Pierce, 713.659.1245. L & D Daily. 1100 Smith, 713.759.0018. L & D Mon-Fri. $ L Pappasito’s Cantina Tex-Mex One of Houston’s most popular casual Tex-Mex restaurants, Pappasito’s specializes in sizzling fajitas, creamy queso and tortillas that almost melt in your mouth!

The downtown location offers six unique ceviches and crudos that can’t be found at any of the other restaurants. pappasitos.com. Hilton Americas-Houston, 1600 Lamar St, 713.353.4400. L, D Daily. $$ L Perbacco Italian An adorable little spot located at street level of one of Houston’s skyscrapers, Perbacco serves up Italian cuisine in a modern and fresh atmosphere. Catering to downtown workers and the theater crowd, you always get quick and friendly service and tasty food. 700 Milam, 713.224.2422. L Mon-Fri; D Thu-Sat. $ L Prohibition American Prohibition is the home of the Moonlight Dolls who dazzle audiences with their sexy yet fun burlesque performances. Beaming with glitz and glamour, this upscale supper club has an exquisite menu featuring fresh Gulf seafood and steaks cooked to perfection! prohibitionhouston.com.

1008 Prairie, 281.940.4636. L Mon-Fri, D Mon-Sat, LN Thu-Fri. Sat 5p-2a. $$$ L Quattro Contemporary Italian Vivid colors, creative lighting and a unique design create a sophisticated and inviting ambience for guests.

Located in the Four Seasons Hotel, Quattro is one

of downtown’s best restaurants. Four Seasons Hotel, 1300 Lamar, 713.652.6250. B, L & D Daily. $$$ Quizno’s Fast Food 811 Rusk, 713.227.7702.

L & D Mon-Fri. 1119 Commerce, 713.228.9000.

L & D Mon-Sun. $ new! Rachel’s Café American Rachel's Cafe is an old fashioned hamburger joint inside the historic Londale Building. This quaint little café has an extensive menu with lots of simple classics like burgers, fries, sandwhiches and salads- all made fresh! rachelscafehouston.com. 421 San Jacinto.

713.229.7067. B, L & D Sat-Sun. BR Sat & Sun. $ Roma’s Pizza Italian Located just across from the Preston Station on the MetroRAIL, Roma's Pizza offers New York-style pizza by the slice or pie, as well as a variety of salads, lasagnas, ravioli, and chicken dishes. 223 Main, 713.222.1184. L & D Daily. $ new! Salata American This next generation salad bar allows you to create your own, tossed-to-order salad or wrap complete with a variety of fresh greens, a large selection of veggies, fruits, nuts, cheeses and more. Top your order off with one of their signature dressings and your choice of chicken, seafood or tofu! salata.com. GreenStreet, 1201 Fannin.

713.275.1088. L, D Daily. $ The Sam Bar American Casual The Sam Houston Hotel's relaxed dining option where you'll find a breakfast buffet and a great bar menu with tasty appetizers, salads, burgers and sandwiches every day of the week. thesamhoustonhotel.com. The Sam Houston Hotel, 1117 Prairie, 832.200.8800. B, L & D Daily. $$ L Sambuca New American A hip, trendy and upscale restaurant right in the mix of Main Street. The menu includes a wide variety of favorites and combined with the live music, Sambuca is Houston’s ultimate supper club. sambucarestaurant.com. 909 Texas, 713.224.5299. L Mon-Fri; D & LN Daily. $$$ The Shops at Houston Center Food Court Brooklyn Meatball Company, Bullritos, Chick-fil-A, D’lish N’ Dash, Doozo’s Dumplings & Noodles, Freshii, Fusion Grillerz, Great American Cookie, Great Wraps, Murphy’s Deli, Otto’s Barbecue & Hamburgers, Pho Huy Vietnamese Noodle House, Potbelly Sandwich Works, Pretzel Time, Quizno’s Subs, Salata, Sarku Japan, Simon’s Homestyle Café, Snap Kitchen, Squeezed, Starbuck’s Coffee, Subway, Thai Basil, The Mediterranean Grill, Treebeards, Wok & Roll. shopsathc.com. 1200 McKinney, 713.759.1442.

Mon-Sat, hours vary. $ L Shula’s Steakhouse Dark wood, sports memorabilia and menus hand painted on official NFL game footballs makes Pro Hall-of-Famer Don Shula’s Steak House stand out from the rest. Become a member of the 48oz Club by finishing a 48-ounce Shula Cut. donshula.com. Hyatt Regency Hotel, 1200 Louisiana, 713.375.4777. B, L & D Daily. $$$ Skyline Deli Deli With their freshly baked bread, Skyline makes a great deli sandwich. 717 Texas, 713.571.0509. B & L Mon-Fri. $ Sol Cafe Mejicano Mexican A family-owned cafe

offering traditional Tex-Mex breakfast and lunch dishes made from fresh ingredients. 1205 Travis, 713.651.0049. B & L, Mon-Fri. $

or enjoy a salad and a wide variety of sandwiches for lunch. toastershouston.com. 1004 N. San Jacinto, 713.261.1562. B, L Mon-Fri. $

L Spaghetti Warehouse Italian Making its home in an old warehouse, this Italian-American eatery offers up large portions for lunch and dinner. Traditional menu items such as spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna and pizza allow the Spaghetti Warehouse to cater to all ages and appetites. meatballs.com. 901 Commerce, 713.229.0009. L & D Daily. $$

Tony’s Barbecue & Steakhouse Barbecue Get worldclass hickory-smoked pork ribs and brisket, rib eye and T-bone steaks, chicken-fried steak and even quail. Don’t leave without trying the delicious homemade cobblers and pies. tonys-bbq.com.

1225 Travis, 713.655.0028. L & D Mon-Fri. $$

L Spindletop American A favorite Houston seafood restaurant and fine dining experience ideal for birthday parties, family reunions, anniversaries and engagements. Perched on the 34th floor of Hyatt Regency Downtown, this glass-walled restaurant makes one revolution every 45 minutes, ensuring you'll enjoy 360-degree views of the city and all of its famous landmarks. houstonregency.hyatt.com. Hyatt Regency, 1200 Louisiana, 713.375.4775.

D Tue-Sat. $$$ L Springbok South African Springbok features a contemporary take on classic South African dishes such as local game, house-made sausages, burgers and curries. Enjoy an amazing selection of local and international beer and cocktails while watching rugby and other national and international sporting competitions. thespringbok.com. 711 Main, 818.201.6979. L, D & LN Daily. $$ Subway Fast Food 405 Main, 713.227.4700.

805 Dallas, 713.651.1331. Daily. $ Table 7 Bistro American Table 7 Bistro is a combination of an upscale, yet casual atmosphere.

Weekday happy hour includes $4 well drinks and $2 domestic beers, and it’s happy hour all weekend with $2 mimosas all day on Saturdays and Sundays. district7grill.com. 720 Fannin @ The Club Quarters, 713.227.4800. B, L & D Daily. $ Tejas Grill & Sports Bar American Located at The Shops at Houston Center, Tejas offers the perfect tailgate menu and full-service bar. tejasgrillandsportsbar.com. 1201 Lamar at The Shops at Houston Center, 713.739.8352. L Mon-Fri, D MonSat. $$ Thepthidaa Thai Thai A traditional Thai restaurant located at the ground level of the loft residence Hogg Palace. The warm and cozy atmosphere offers a great setting for a dinner escape and is a local favorite. 401 Louisiana, 713.225.4900. D Daily. $ L III Forks American Upscale, warm atmosphere and impeccable service sets the stage for this sophisticated steakhouse. New York strip and filet mignon, bone-in ribeye, porterhouse, young rack of lamb and veal chop are served with duchess potatoes, off-the-cob cream corn, and perfectly cooked vegetables. Seafood items include Chilean sea bass, Ahi tuna, salmon, halibut, scallops and lobster tails, which are flown in daily. iiiforks.com. GreenStreet, 1201 San Jacinto, Level 1, 713.658.9457. L Tue-Fri; D Mon-Sat. $$$$ Toasters Café American Toasters is a quaint little café in downtown’s Warehouse District which serves up classic favorites in a modern setting. Try their fresh baked pastries and French toast for breakfast,

L Treebeards Southern A downtown institution for more than 30 years, Treebeards offers tasty Cajun dishes that are sure to satisfy. Favorite menu items include the chicken and shrimp gumbo, red beans and rice and étouffée. For dessert, try the famous butter bar. treebeards.com. 315 Travis, 713.228.2622. Cloisters at Christ Church Cathedral, 1117 Texas, 713.229.8248. L Mon-Fri. $ Trofi Restaurant Continental Trofi’s menu is described as Continental with a Mediterranean and Latin flair and the ambience is simple, yet sophisticated. Lunch buffets are available Monday through Friday. 400 Dallas, Doubletree Hotel, 713.759.0202.

B, L & D Daily. $$ L Vic & Anthony’s Steak House This world-class steak house is one of the most elegant dining locations in Houston. It boasts rich mahogany woodwork and one-of-a-kind hospitality. Located in the heart of the Ballpark District and across from Minute Maid Park, Vic & Anthony’s is the ideal spot for entertaining business clients, a special celebration or a pre/post-game dinner. vicandanthonys.com.

1510 Texas, 713.228.1111. L Fri, D Daily. $$$$ Which Wich Deli A fast and easy build-your-ownsandwich joint where doodling is encouraged and the possibilities are endless! Which ‘wich will you make? B & L Mon-Fri. L Sat. 811 Main, 713.227.0860. $ Wimpy’s Hamburgers Fast Food Wimpy’s serves up a pretty good burger but they also have many other down-home favorites. 632 Polk, 713.652.0123. B & L Mon-Fri. $ Zero’s Sandwich Shop Deli A great little spot for a freshly made deli sandwich. zerossandwichshop.com. 809 Dallas, 713.650.3333.

1110 Lamar, 713.655.7722. 507 Dallas, 713.739.9955. B & L Mon-Fri. $ L Zydeco Louisiana Diner Cajun This cafeteria-style Cajun joint brings Louisiana dishes to the Hospital District of downtown Houston. Traditional Cajun items such as po-boys, jambalaya and gumbo make Zydeco a great lunch stop. A casual atmosphere adds to the enjoyment. 1119 Pease, 713.759.2001.

L Mon-Fri. $ For a searchable database of downtown Houston restaurants by cuisine, location and price, visit downtownhouston.org and click on GUIDE.

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sip.

like us at facebook.com/visitdowntownhouston The Boulevardier | 410 Main, Downstairs This beautiful lounge provides an upscale yet comfortable respite to Main Street every Thursday through Saturday serving the finest craft cocktails. Thu-Sat 6 pm-2 am. thecommonerbar.com/#upstairs Barringer Bar | 108 Main Barringer is a classic bar and lounge located in historic Downtown Houston where patrons can enjoy a wide selection of beer, wine and libations. Antique furniture and photos fill the cozy space and live music, DJs and aerialists entertain throughout the weekend!

Tue-Fri 5 pm-2 am; Sat 8 pm-2 am. barringerhouston.com The Brewery Tap | 717 Franklin Sit at one of the long wooden picnic tables (think biergarten) and chill with one of the 35 beers on tap. Laid-back and friendly, a great place to catch a soccer game and play some darts. Mon-Thu 4-10 pm, Fri & Sat 4 pm-1 am; Sun 4-11 p.m. brewerytaphouston.com Captain Foxheart’s Bad News Bar & Spirit Lodge | 308 Main A fun and quirky bar that doesn’t take itself too seriously (hence the name), but the cocktails are seriously good. Patrons enjoy the speakeasy vibe and the patio terrace for prime people watching. Mon-Sun 4 pm-2 am. twitter.com/badnewsbar Char Bar | 305 Travis Char Bar offers stiff drinks alongside custom suits. Drenched in nostalgia, Char Bar is proud of its history, as reflected in the old photos of family members who have worked in the space since the 1930s. Enjoy the second floor balcony or chat it up with Weldon Renfro, who has a permanent shoe shine booth at the entrance. Mon-Wed 10 ammidnight, Thu-Sat 10 am-2 am. twitter.com/TheCharBar The Commoner | 410 Main, Downstairs Simple, straightforward. Cocktails, beer and wine. Mon-Sun 4 pm-2 am, Sun noon-midnight. thecommonerbar.com Dean’s | 316 Main Under new ownership and with a new look and feel, Dean’s adds to the cool vibe found on the 300 block of Main. Great attention from the bartenders and the trendy crowd make it a unique place to socialize.

Mon-Thu 8 pm-2 am, Fri-Sat 5 pm-2 am. deansdowntown.com The Dirt Bar | 1209 Caroline The non-venue rock 'n' roll lounge is a popular pre- and post-show destination spot that has become famous for its performer patronage. Drawing crowds and artists from every venue in the city has allowed The Dirt to host hundreds of memorable after-show events, including Lady Gaga, Foo Fighters and Kings of Leon. Daily 6 pm-2 am. dirtbar.com 806 Lounge | 806 Main A favorite of the locals, 806 Lounge located inside the JW Marriott Houston Downtown, ignites the senses with sophisticated creations.

Their mixologists are experts in creating cocktails, lively in conversation, and can recommend a favorite dish to accompany

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FALL 2015 Looking for a spot to go after a long day or for a fun night out with friends? Check out some of our favorites. your handcrafted drink. Daily 11 am-11 pm. jwmarriotthotelhouston.com/806-lounge 1820 Bar | 1820 Franklin Located just one block north of Minute Maid Park. Small flat-screen TVs dot the bar, allowing patrons to keep tabs on games while not being the center of attention. On the first and last Friday of every month Joystix Classic Games and Pinball next door is open, and $15 gets you all night to practice your Ms. Pac-Man skills. Daily 4 pm-2 am.

1820lounge.com El Big Bad | 419 Travis El Big Bad is a Gastro-Cantina that specializes in infused tequilas, fresh juice margaritas and cocktails, Mexican and Texan Craft Beer and scrumptious fare. Sun-Thu 11 am- midnight, Fri-Sat 11 am-2 am. elbigbad.com Flying Saucer | 705 Main Offering more than 200 beers, with nearly half on draft, Flying Saucer is a great place to hang out and enjoy a cold one. Check out the website for information on beer tastings, trivia night and specials. Mon-Wed, 11 am-1 am, Thu & Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat noon-2 am, Sun noon-midnight. beerknurd.com Henke & Pillot | 809 Congress Where past meets present, and drinks and dining blend in flawless harmony. Henke & Pillot is more than a dynamic Downtown cocktail lounge. Named after the Houston grocery store chain that occupied the space in the 800 block of Congress over 150 years ago, the simple yet sophisticated setting offers patrons inspired cocktails that are paired with mouthwatering dishes. Wed-Sat 4 pm - 2 am. henkehouston.com The Honeymoon Cafe+Bar | 300 Main The Historic District welcomes The Honeymoon - a new, adorable bistro with great cocktails, wine and coffee from local Boomtown Coffee. Mon-Thu 7 am-midnight, Fri 7 am-2 am; Sat 10 am-2 am; Sun 10 am-10 pm. thehoneymoonhtx.com La Carafe | 813 Congress The oldest building in Houston, this dark and cozy hideaway boasts a great jukebox, moody atmosphere and an extensive beer and wine selection. Sit on the outside patio or balcony and look up in awe at the amazing downtown skyline. Cash only. Mon-Fri noon-2 am, Sat & Sun 1 pm-2 am.

Last Concert Café | 403 Nance You have to knock three times on the red door to gain entry to the unmarked house in the Warehouse District (well, not anymore). With a backyard stage and sandpit, hoola-hooping and tiki bar, Last Concert has live music most nights. Tue-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat 5 pm-2 am, Sun 3-9 pm. lastconcert.com Lawless Spirits & Kitchen | 909 Texas Lawless Spirits & Kitchen is an establishment with flair. A place that gives rise to the iconic visions of Teddy Roosevelt, Mark Twain, Frank Sinatra or Steve McQueen leaning on the bar with a stiff, well-crafted Rye Manhattan. Lawless is detailed with glitzy style, featuring revolutionary cocktails accompanied by comfortable finger foods and satisfying bites. lawlesspirits.com

downtownhouston.org

Little Dipper | 304 Main This spot is a cool, blue neighborhood bar with pinball machines, cheap bourbon and a bad-ass jukebox. Daily 4 pm-2 am. twitter.com/LittleDipperBar Lone Star Saloon | 1900 Travis The Lone Star Saloon is a true classic Texas dive bar that seems misplaced in its urban setting. The crowd, half aging townies and half world-weary road dogs, are always willing to share have-been-to-helland-back stories. Daily noon-2 am.

MKT Bar | 1001 Austin Phoenicia’s MKT bar, located at the first floor of One Park Place, is the perfect place to stop when you need a chill moment. The bar offers coffee, pastries, wine, beer, gourmet pizza and other yummy nibbles for which Phoenicia is known. Mon-Wed 7 am-9 pm, Thu 7 am-2 am, Fri-Sat 9 am-2 am, Sun 9 am-8 pm. mktbar.com Molly’s Pub | 509 Main This classic Irish pub offers a variety of Irish whiskeys and international beers.

Tables and coves lead you to the back, where pool and darts can be found and a second-floor balcony provides excellent views of Main Street and Downtown.

Daily 11 am-2 am. mollyspubs.com Moving Sidewalk | 306 Main This upscale bar has an intimate setting complete with antique chandeliers, dark lighting and candles. The cocktails at Moving Sidewalk are sure to please as they have hand- crafted ingredients such as rosehip infusion and a fig and marigold shrub. Perfect for a romantic night out or to catch up with friends over drinks!

Tue-Sat 4 pm-2 am. twitter.com/movingsidewalk The Nightingale Room | 308 Main The Nightingale Room—named for the famous songbird—also references Houston music legend Sippie Wallace, known as the Texas Nightingale during her prime in the 1920s. This entertainment-focused bar is a casual, comfortable spot to listen to vinyl during the week and will turn up the energy on weekends with live music— dancing is encouraged! Expect a variety of music from all genres. The drink menu features a small selection of house drinks, shots, as well as beer, wine and champagne.

Tue-Sat 4 pm-2 am. nightingaleroom.com Notsuoh | 314 Main The name is Houston spelled backwards.

A bar full of random weirdness: Think grunge lounge and artsy. You’ll find people playing chess, and drinking beer, live music, lots of crazy, weird artwork and maybe walk in on a night of punk-rock karaoke. Live bands on weekends. Daily 8 pm-2 am. notsuoh.com The Original OKRA Charity Saloon | 924 Congress Houston’s first charity bar is a true collaboration from Houston's finest, including owners from Anvil, Paulie's, Grand Prize and more. Expect classic cocktails and brews in a gorgeous historic building.

Every drink purchase earns you a vote that can go toward select charities to win the bar’s monthly earnings. Daily 3 pm-2 am. friedokra.org The Pastry War | 310 Main A Mezcaleria from Bobby Heugel and Alba Huerta that serves up agave spirits along with classic Mexican cocktails and beers in a festive and intimate environment. This specialty tequila joint not only

accepts pesos, but is on a brave mission to serve the best margaritas in town. Salud!

Tue-Sat 4 pm-2 am. thepastrywar.com Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar | 1201 Fannin @ GreenStreet Two dueling pianos and a sing-along, clap-along, drink-along, have-one-helluvagood-time-along bar! Wed-Sat 7 pm2 am, showtime @ 8 pm. petesduelingpianobar.com Public Services Wine & Whiskey | 202 Travis Nestled in the historic Cotton Exchange Building, lies Public Services Wine & Whiskey. Public Services isn’t just any cocktail bar, in fact, they’re the complete opposite. Here, patrons can find classic wines and a vast yet distinctive whiskey selection served straight, on the rocks, or with a small selection of mixers. Craft beer and cider help round out the carefully crafted drink menu. Mon-Sat 4 pm-2 am. publicservicesbar.com Reserve 101 | 1201 Caroline A whiskey and martini bar touting more than 220 specialty liquors that will make any cocktail aficionados mouth water. Stop by on Tuesday for complimentary tastings of special selections. Order up delicious bites from the new, chef-driven menu featuring tasty flatbreads, appetizers and sandwiches. Sun 5 pm-2 am, Mon-Sat 2 pm-2 am. reserve101.com The Sam Bar | 1117 Prairie Street @ The Sam Houston Hotel Located in the Alden Hotel. This upscale bar is furnished with dark leather banquettes and a menu of 30 cocktails, both classic and new mixologist creations. SunThu 11 am-midnight, Fri & Sat 11 am-1 am. thesamhoustonhotel.com Shay McElroy’s Pub | 909 Texas @ Rice Lofts Dublin native and owner John McElroy created this space around a richly detailed, 19th-century bar he had shipped from Ireland. The crowd is an inviting collection of young professionals and not-so-young merrymakers. Mon-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat & Sun 1 pm-2 am. mcelroyspub.com Sunny’s Bar | 901 Capitol @ Main Laid-back place with a friendly atmosphere and great prices that keep the regulars coming back. Sunny will likely be behind the bar serving up the beer and cocktails and great conversation. Foosball, darts and shuffleboard are in the back of the house to keep you entertained. Mon-Sat 2 pm-2 am.

Warren’s Inn | 307 Travis This tavern is long known for its top-notch jukebox full of American classics, strong mixed drinks and its diverse crowd of customers. Mon-Fri 11 am-2 am, Sat noon2 pm, Sun 2 pm-2 am.

The Wine Cellar | 540 Texas Unwind and relax with more than 400 varieties of wine and imported beers.

Wine tastings Mon-Thu, 2-7 pm.

Daily 11 am-midnight. thewinecellarhouston.com

datebook.

FALL 2015 Performing Arts 42 Market Square Park 48 Festivals & Special Events 49 Discovery Green 50 and more

Edited by NICOLE MARIN

Discovery Green Park

PHOTO BY ESRAWE + CADENA

Don’t miss the colorful interactive display of Los Trompos Nov. 15 – Mar. 22

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PERFORMING ARTS

THE PRICE IS RIGHT – LIVE STAGE SHOW Sep 10 Tickets $42-$64. 7:30 pm. Revention Music Center, 520 Texas. 800.745.3000. reventionmusiccenter.com THE LITTLE MERMAID Sep 10–13 Based on the Disney animated film and hit Broadway musical, The Little Mermaid is back by popular demand. In a magical kingdom fathoms below, we meet Ariel, the little mermaid who is tired of flipping her fins and longs to be part of the fascinating world on dry land. Joining her are Sebastian, Ariel’s crabby sidekick; Ursula, the evil sea witch; Triton, King of the Sea; and the handsome and human Prince Eric. Rated G. Tickets start at $30. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby.

713.558.8887. tuts.com MANON Sep 10–20 A modern classic, Manon charts the romantic adventures of an irresistibly beautiful femme fatale and her one true love, the impoverished student Des Grieux, from the demi monde of Paris to the bayous of Louisiana. The passion and danger of Manon’s central pas de deux have proven irresistible to audiences around the world and have made it one of the most popular full-length ballets of the second half of the 20th century. Tickets $20-$197. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.227.

ARTS. houstonballet.org CALPULLI MEXICAN DANCE COMPANY Sep 11 Calpulli Mexican Dance Company celebrates Mexican and Mexican-American culture with unique flare, contagious live musical rhythms, meticulous costuming, passionate dancers, and Mexican stories that transcend cultures. Tickets $31-$121. 8 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

832.487.7041. iaahouston.com THE GREAT GATSBY Sep 11–27 F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic 1920s novel is brought to life onstage. In a world of greed and obsession, follow the intriguing millionaire, Jay Gatsby, as he pursues the love of his life, Daisy, and

42 fall 2015

PHOTO BY BRUCE BENNETT

MUSIC OF THE BEATLES Sep 4–6 Beatlemania officially arrived in Houston 50 years ago this summer when Sir Paul, John, George and Ringo performed at the Sam Houston Coliseum. As a tribute, Houston Symphony is kicking off its season with an all-out Beatles celebration featuring the entire Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band album, as well as performances of the band’s biggest hits such as Let It Be, All You Need Is Love and Eleanor Rigby. Joining the orchestra will be pop sensation Rajaton, a vocal sextet from Finland, who give a fresh take on some of the world’s most influential music. Tickets start at $25. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org

lose yourself in the glamour and decadence of the Jazz Age. Tickets $35-$40. Fridays and Saturdays 8 pm, Sundays 5 pm. The Kaleidoscope, 705 Main.

832.817.8656. bayoucitytheatrics.com OPENING NIGHT WITH JOSHUA BELL Sep 12 Prepare for the dazzling opening of the Houston Symphony’s 2015-16 season when world-famous violinist Joshua Bell returns to perform an arrangement written for him, William David Brohn’s tuneful and virtuosic arrangement of the West Side Story suite. Be delighted and amazed

by Bell’s lightning-fast finger work and sweeping renditions of I Feel Pretty, Somewhere and other melodies from Leonard Bernstein’s classic musical.

Gershwin’s jazzy An American in Paris opens the concert, and the evening concludes with the fairytale symbolism and burning colors of Stravinsky’s mythical ballet, The Firebird. Tickets start at $29. 7:30 pm.

Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org AUTUMN HUNT Sep 13 The Ars Lyrica 2015-16 Seasonal Rituals begins with Antonio Vivaldi’s Autumn, the first of four concerti constituting his beloved Four Seasons, each of which appears on its own program this season. Autumn Hunt also includes vocal fireworks aplenty, with Joseph Haydn’s dramatic cantata Arianna a Naxos for mezzo-soprano and strings—in which the mythical figure Arianna imagines herself hunter’s prey—plus a selection of Handel arias.

Tickets $37-$59. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby.

713.315.2525. thehobbycenter.org MAHLER’S SYMPHONY NO. 5 Sep 17–20 Be the first to hear the orchestral version of Stomp by composer John Corigliano (The Red Violin, The Ghosts of Versailles) and hear from the composer himself during On-Stage Insights with Andrés at the start of the concert. Then, embark on an epic spiritual journey as Andrés conducts Mahler’s

downtownhouston.org

Symphony No. 5. From the opening trumpet solo to the tender adagietto inspired by Mahler’s wife, Alma, this symphony contains some of the most emotionally powerful music ever written. Tickets start at $25. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana.

713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org THE RAT PACK IS BACK! Sep 18 This spirited show recreates one of the famous “Summit at the Sands” nights when the swingin’, ring-a-ding group known as The Rat Pack was creating hipster legends with a free-wheeling, no-holds-barred nightclub act starring Vegas’ four favorite sons: Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., Dean Martin and Joey Bishop. Tickets $33-$78. 7:30 pm.

Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org AN EVENING WITH SUSAN GRAHAM Sep 19 Vocal superstar Susan Graham joins Mercury for an exciting musical journey through the centuries. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unforgettable night of glorious music. Tickets start at $18. 8 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

713.533.0080. mercuryhouston.org SPEARS & VAVREK O COLUMBIA Sept 23–24 Inspired by interviews with members from the NASA community, this chamber opera in three acts explores our culture’s fascination with space and introduces historical events of exploration as touchstones. Presented by HGOco, O Columbia is created by composer Gregory Spears, librettist Royce Vavrek, stage director Kevin Newbury, and conductor Timothy Myers. Tickets start at $20.

Revention Music Center, 520 Texas. 713.230.1600. ticketmaster.com FALL MIXED REPERTORY PROGRAM Sep 24–Oct 4 Houston Ballet’s fall mixed repertory program will showcase the best of contemporary choreography. Back after 12 years is Christopher

Bruce’s Ghost Dances, which movingly evokes the political upheavals of Latin America, danced to the haunting music of Inti-Illimani. Also featured in the program is Stanton Welch’s Tapestry and a spectacular showcase for Houston Ballet’s dancers set to Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5. Tickets $15-$197. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.227.

ARTS. houstonballet.org

the electrifying story of love, adventure and crime that captured the attention of an entire country.

The legendary Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll And Hyde, Civil War, Dracula), who wrote this thrilling musical, will be actively engaged during the rehearsal period of this TUTS Underground production. Tickets start at $25. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. 713.558.8887. tutsunderground.com

ANDRÉS CONDUCTS DVORÁK Sep 25–27 Delight in Dvorák’s pastoral Symphony No. 6 as Andrés and the orchestra complete his recordings of Dvorák’s Symphonies No. 6-9 for the Pentatone label. Full of enchanting melodies inspired by his native Bohemia, selections of Dvorák’s beloved Slavonic Dances will also be featured in this program, along with violin virtuoso Simone Porter, who joins Andrés to perform Barber’s intensely emotional and melodic Violin Concerto.

Tickets start at $25. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana.

713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org

MAYA BEISER Oct 2 Israeli-born cellist Maya Beiser will make her Houston debut alongside drummer Glenn Kotche of the groundbreaking American rock band Wilco, as well as Jherek Bischoff on bass. Maya’s latest project All Vows explores the dichotomy between the physical, external world we inhabit and the inner landscape of our secret selves. Tickets $28-$68.

8 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org

THE COMEDY GET DOWN Sep 26 Numerous motion picture appearances, countless television shows, sitcoms and standup specials, a talk show, three radio shows, and two books; Cedric ‘The Entertainer’, Eddie Griffin, D.L. Hughley, George Lopez and Charlie Murphy have been breaking ground in the comedy business and bringing the laughs for decades. This is a once-in-alifetime chance to see five members of comedy royalty come together for the comedy event of the year! Tickets start at $49.75. 8 pm. Toyota Center, 1510 Polk. 713.4HOUTIX. toyotacentertix.com SNAPSHOTS OF AMERICA Sep 26 Join Da Camera for a festive all-star opening night featuring legendary soprano and five-time Grammy Award winner Dawn Upshaw, noted pianist Gilbert Kalish, the celebrated So Percussion and a stellar Da Camera Ensemble made up of leading Houston musicians and Da Camera Young Artists. Tickets start at $30. 8 pm.

Wortham Center, 501 Texas 713.524.5050. dacamera.com

ONE MAN, TWO GUVNORS Oct 2–Nov 1 In the heart of 1960s England, charming and doltish Francis, fired from his pop band, unexpectedly finds himself with two new jobs and two new bosses, who are connected to each other in wildly improbable ways. He has to keep them from discovering each other – and that turns out to be not so simple. Mistaken identities, outrageous farce, love triangles and inspired lunacy are the result. Contains adult language and sexual situations. Alley Theatre, 615 Texas. 713.220.5700. alleytheatre.org SHUMANN AND BARTÓK Oct 3–4 Discover Schumann’s rare masterpiece, The Pilgrimage of the Rose, an intimate, art-songinspired oratorio about a rose who yearns to become human and experience love. Full of gorgeous choral, ensemble and solo writing, this score deftly transforms the original fairytale into a powerful allegory of what it means to be human and to love. Tickets start at $25. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org BAYOU CITY JAZZ SERIES FEATURING LARRY CARLTON & ALTHEA RENE Oct 4 Nineteen time Grammy nominee, four time Grammy winner and guitar great, Larry Carlton, accompanied by world-renowned phenomenal flutist, Althea Rene, take the stage at the Wortham Center. Tickets $54-$80.

8 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas 832.487.7041. worthamcenter.org

BONNIE & CLYDE Oct 1–10 At the height of the Great Depression, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow went from two small-town nobodies in West Texas to America’s most renowned folk heroes and Texas law enforcement’s worst nightmares.

Fearless, shameless, and alluring, the Tony-nominated Bonnie & Clyde is

MATILDA Oct 6–18 Winner of 50 international awards, including four Tony Awards, Matilda The Musical is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own

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destiny. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl, Matilda continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages on Broadway and in London’s West End. Tickets start at $30. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby.

713.558.8887. tuts.com A LITTLE DAY MUSIC Oct 7 A Little Day Music is a series of free concerts presented at noon on the first Wednesday of the month in the Grand Foyer of the Wortham Center.

Each concert is designed to deliver Da Camera’s signature programming to an audience including senior citizens, Downtown professionals, and home-schooled students. The series features a variety of chamber music and jazz, presented in an accessible one-hour concert format. Audiences are invited to enjoy their lunch while listening to the music. Free. Noon. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

713.524.5050. dacamera.com DOG SEES GOD: CONFESSIONS OF A TEENAGE BLOCKHEAD Oct 9–24 The Peanuts kids are all grown up in this incredibly moving dark comedy. Join teenage versions of Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus, and the gang as they try to survive high school and explore issues like suicide, bullying, drug use and sexual identity. Tickets $35-$40. Fridays and Saturdays 8 pm. The Kaleidoscope, 705 Main. 832.817.8656. bayoucitytheatrics.com HAYDN’S SURPRISE SYMPHONY Oct 10 Performances include Haydn’s Symphony No. 94, Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 2 and K. 467, and a suite from Rameau’s Les Boréades. Tickets start at $18. 8 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

713.533.0080. mercuryhouston.org FLAMENCO FIRE Oct 10 Direct from Madrid, Houston favorites José Porcel and Compañia Flamenca, return to Houston to present a spectacle of classic flamenco. The company will perform its newest traditional work Flamenco Fire, a breathtaking extravaganza that represents the purity and authenticity of the golden age of flamenco. The choreography, costumes and music have been faithfully reproduced, preserving the style, customs and experiences of the Spanish region. Tickets $33-$88. 8 pm. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org YOU’RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN Oct 10–24 Bayou City Theatrics creates an exciting new production of this all-American classic!

Everyone’s favorite Peanuts characters leap out of the funny pages and take the stage in this lighthearted musical that is perfect for the entire family.

Tickets $35-$40. Saturdays and Sundays at 2 pm.

The Kaleidoscope, 705 Main. 832.817.8656. bayoucitytheatrics.com RED BULL FLYING BACH Oct 13–15 The Flying Bach is a clash of cultures where classical music meets breakdance. The Flying Steps, four time breakdance world champions, deliver a creative performance set to Johann Sebastian Bach’s The Well-Tempered Clavier, bridging

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datebook.

HOUSTON Fall PUBLIC Calendar LIBRARY Central Library 500 McKinney

Julia Ideson Library 550 McKinney

All events free and open to the public.

832.393.1313. houstonlibrary.org

My Favorite Poem: Houston Sep 9 An Evening with Poet Robert Pinsky and Mayor Annise Parker.

Former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky joins Houston Mayor Annise Parker for a poetry presentation and citywide launch of My Favorite Poem: Houston. 6–8 pm. Julia Ideson Building

COMEDY NIGHT Sep 24 Get ready for a night of laugh-out-loud fun! Enjoy local comedians, ventriloquists and impressionists as they present their best material as well as a local version of Hollywood Game Night in which the audience participates.

Arrive early as seating is limited.

6–8 pm. Central Library

Rainbow Families Storytime Wednesdays, Sep 9–Oct 21 Everyone is invited to a storytime celebrating all types of families! This is also an opportunity for LGBTQ families to enjoy stories, songs, and socialize during craft time. 7 pm. Central Library

SENSORY STORYTIME Sep 26, Oct 17, Nov 7 An interactive program for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration issues, other developmental disabilities, and their typically developing peers. This program includes stories, songs and activities in a small setting. 2 pm. Central Library

ART THING! Sep 12 & Nov 14 Learn about art and artists and make your own creation to take home. Kids program. 3 pm. Central Library LIFE LEARNING FOR KIDS Sep 19, Oct 3, Nov 14 This program presents practical, hands-on activities that highlight skills that school-age children might need to better manage, understand and succeed in everyday life. 3 pm.

Central Library

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD Sep 29 Catch To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) for a special Banned Books Week story-to-screen outdoor movie event. 7 pm. Central Library Plaza WORLD WAR II LECTURE SERIES Oct 3 This lectures series will complement the exhibit Remembering World War II: Houston’s Latino Veterans.

Program will include a film screening of the PBS documentary film Latino Americans Episode No. 3 War and

the art forms of classical and urban culture. The elegant music along with explosive moves create an amazing and entertaining show for people of all ages and demographics. Tickets $40-$70. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 832.487.7041. worthamcenter.org VOCA PEOPLE Oct 16 The Voca People are friendly aliens from the planet Voca, somewhere behind the sun, where all communication is made by music and vocal

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Peace, followed by two academic panels on the subject of Latinas and Latinos in World War II, and an overview of archival photographs held at the Houston Metropolitan Research Center. 10 am–4 pm. Julia Ideson Building LIBROFEST! Oct 3 Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Houston Public Library’s (HPL) 4th Annual Houston LibroFEST! Featured presenters include author, activist, and television director Jesús Salvador Treviño, Viola Canles, and children’s author and illustrator Xavier Garza; as well as programs and activities connected to the Houston Metropolitan Research Center exhibit on display, Remembering World War II: Houston’s Latino Veterans. Also taking part in the festival: musicians, artists, and local literary organizations and vendors including Arte Público Press, Brazos Bookstore, Gulf Coast Literary Journal, Inprint, Writers in the Schools (WITS), and more! Central Library Scary Stories Oct 24 Sally Bates, master storyteller, will present spooky tales to get everyone in the Halloween mood! 2 pm. Central Library

expressions. The Voca People believe that life is music and music is life. They are coming back to planet Earth and they have a lot to sing about. Voca People, the show, is a thrilling and original musical adventure unlike anything you have experienced before. Full of energy and bursting with comedy and fun, this international hit features more than 80 a cappella and beat box versions of all-time favorite hits including music by Madonna, Michael Jackson and even Mozart. No instruments, no sound effects—just eight incredible talents breathing life

downtownhouston.org

Dia de los Muertos Oct 31 Make your own Dia de los Muertos inspired art creation to take home. 3 pm. Central Library Halloween Storytime Oct 31 Enjoy creepy, crawly, spooktacular Halloween stories!

2 pm. Central Library National Game Day 2015 Nov 21 Check out board games all day, enjoy a gaming-themed movie at noon, play in a connect four tournament beginning at 2 pm and participate in open gaming from 3–4:45 pm. Central Library

FAMILY FUN Mondays Baby Time, 10:30 am Toddler Time, 11:30 am Preschool Storytime, 1 pm Tuesdays Toddler Yoga, 10:30 am Toddler Playtime, 11:30 am Wednesdays Legos & Duplos, 3 pm Thursdays Minecraft Madness, 4 pm

into the greatest music on earth. Tickets $28-$68.

7:30 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org EMANUEL AX PLAYS BRAHMS Oct 16–18 Bask in the warmth of Brahms’ melodic genius when Emanuel Ax returns to perform his majestic Piano Concerto No. 2, a work that enchants from the opening horn solo to the gypsy-inspired melodies of the lilting finale. Andrés also conducts Charles Ives’ Symphony No. 2 as part of a four-year

cycle of this great American composer’s symphonies. Tickets start at $25. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana.

713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS Oct 20 Tickets $35-$59. 6:30 pm. Revention Music Center, 520 Texas. 800.745.3000. reventionmusiccenter.com

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PIPPIN Oct 20–25 Pippin tells the story of a young prince on a death-defying journey to find meaning in his N BA existence. Will he choose a O H E K happy but simple life? Or will he risk everything for a singular flash of glory? This captivating new production is directed by Tony winner Diane Paulus (Hair and The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess). It features sizzling choreography in the style of Bob Fosse and breathtaking acrobatics by Les 7 Doigts de la Main, the creative force behind the nationwide sensation Traces. Tickets start at $35. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. 713.315.2525. thehobbycenter.org THE LEGEND OF ZELDA Oct 22 The highly anticipated global concert tour of The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses— Master Quest descends on the Houston Symphony and delights fans with a truly unique experience.

Audiences can expect new additions from A Link Between Worlds, the most recently released Zelda game. Tickets start at $30. 7:30 pm. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org THE SPIRIT OF INDIA Oct 22 The Bollywood Masala Orchestra and Dancers of India will makes their Houston debut with The Spirit of India a performance that will take audience members on a lively musical journey from Rajasthan to Mumbai. With 17 professional artists onstage, Houston audiences will experience the soul of a veritable feast of Indian sounds. The show combines traditional and contemporary music with mesmerizing rhythms and colorful costumes.

Founded by artistic director Rahis Bharti, the Bollywood Masala Orchestra and Dancers of India give an authentic taste of the richness and excitement of Indian music. Tickets $28-$73. 8 pm.

Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org PUCCINI’S TOSCA Oct 23–Nov 14 A story of deceit set in Rome during one of history’s most turbulent times. Truth is nowhere to be found, and even love is tainted by

suspicion for the tragic heroine Floria Tosca. In an effort to save the life of her beloved Cavaradossi, Tosca strikes a terrible bargain with the evil chief of police, Baron Scarpia, and is fatally deceived.

Intrigue, cruelty, and betrayal swirl about a doomed diva in a riveting drama sung to one of Puccini’s most beautiful scores. Tickets start at $15. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.228.6737. hgo.org THE OTHER PLACE Oct 23–Nov 15 Juliana Smithton is a neurologist whose research leads to a potential breakthrough for a new Alzheimer treatment.

Just as it does, her life takes a disorienting turn. During a lecture to colleagues, she enters into a mystery that blurs fact with fiction, the past with the present, until the elusive truth is unraveled in a windswept cottage on the shores of Cape Cod, “the other place.” Alley Theatre, 615 Texas.

713.220.5700. alleytheatre.org ARTURO O’FARRILL AND THE AFRO LATIN JAZZ ORCHESTRA Oct 24 Grammy Award-winning pianist Arturo O’Farrill is a celebrated musician, bandleader and a composer with a ground-breaking and forwardlooking perspective. Catch O’Farrill and his Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra when they perform at Downtown’s Wortham Center. Tickets start at $35.

8 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

713.524.5050. dacamera.com

LYLE LOVETT & JOHN HIATT Oct 29 The uncompromising musicality of Lyle Lovett. The soul-stirring lyrics of John Hiatt. Two of America’s most admired singer-songwriters turn Sarofim Hall at the Hobby Center into their front porch for a rare and intimate acoustic evening, swapping stories and songs from throughout their incredible careers. Tickets $39-$79. 8 pm. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. 713.315.2525. thehobbycenter.org SINATRA’S CENTENNIAL Oct 30–Nov 1 Since “Ol’ Blue Eyes” would have turned 100 this year, Principal Pops Conductor Designate Steven Reineke has created a program in true Sinatra style—reflecting the timeless songs that this American legend popularized, including Fly Me To The Moon, My Way and The Lady Is A Tramp.

Adding to Steve’s “Rat Pack” is Tony DeSare, who has been described by The New York Times as “two parts Frank Sinatra to one part Billy Joel.” We also welcome Tony-nominated performer Montego Glover (Broadway’s Memphis: The Musical), who commands the stage with her dazzling, powerhouse voice. Tickets start at $25. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org EUGENE ONEGIN Oct 30-Nov 13 Regret, remorse, and wanting what you can’t have. From Pushkin’s novel in verse comes Tchaikovsky’s theatrical masterwork set to a

BALLET HISPANICO Oct 24 Founded by Tina Ramirez and led

by Artistic Director Eduardo Vilaro, Ballet Hispanico explores, preserves and celebrates Latino cultures through dance.

For its return to Houston, the company will perform its first full-length narrative work – Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s Carmen. maquia. Riveting from start to finish, this work is a bold and electrifying reimagining of Georges Bizet’s iconic opera about a passionate gypsy. 8 pm. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org JOSH GROBAN Oct 26 Catch multi-platinum recording artist Josh Groban, in a uniquely intimate performance when he stops at The Hobby Center on his Stages tour. Tickets $50.50-$150. 7:30 pm. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. 713.315.2525. thehobbycenter.org

PHOTO BY PAULA LOBO

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DOWNTOWN Fall AQUARIUM Calendar This family-friendly six-acre entertainment and dining complex is a 500,000-gallon aquatic wonderland, home to over 200 species of aquatic life from around the globe. With a full-service restaurant, aquatic and geographic exhibits, shopping and a variety of amusements, Downtown Aquarium has it all! 410 Bagby. 713.223.3474. downtownaquarium.com

Marine Biologist for a Day Sep 5, Oct 3, Nov 7 See if you have what it takes to become a marine biologist. Spend a day behind the scenes where all the scientific action happens. Experience close encounters with exotic species from the deep sea to shallow reef and everywhere in between. Program includes guided tour, biologist dive show, squid dissection, animal feedings and much more.

T-shirts and lunch included.

Ages 6-12. $55 per person.

Zoologist for a Day Sep 19, Oct 17, Nov 21 Tigers at an aquarium? There are more than just fish at the Downtown Aquarium.

Examine an impressive species of birds, reptiles, amphibians and, of course, the white tigers.

Spend your day learning how to handle and train the creatures that live outside the ocean. Interact with live animals, build animal enrichment toys, talk with tiger and bird keepers and much more! T-shirts and lunch included. $55 per person.

sweeping musical score that conveys universal human truths. When the narcissistic Onegin spurns the affections of a sensitive young girl and turns a pistol on his best friend in a fatal duel, he is left only with regret. Years later, reunited with his now-married former admirer, he finds he has lost his chance at true love. Tickets start at $15. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.228.6737. hgo.org GOHSTBUSTERS & GHOULS Oct 31 It’s Halloween, and there’s no better place to be than at the Houston Symphony. Fantastically frightening music will give your Saturday morning a little trick and a big treat! The spooky celebration includes music from Ghostbusters and Michael Jackson’s epic hit Thriller. They also feature a haunting violin solo in Saint-Saëns’ Danse Macabre.

Then, get ready to strut your stuff as Associate Conductor Robert Franz leads the audience in a not-to-be-missed on-stage costume parade.

Tickets start at $19. 10 am and 11:30 am. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org

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Reef’s 11th Birthday Oct 4 Join the Downtown Aquarium for their White Tiger, Reef ’s 11th birthday party featuring a meat birthday cake, his favorite treat! Call for event schedule.

Smash the Squash Oct 17–18, 24–25 The white tigers at the Downtown Aquarium love Halloween!

Come watch them train, eat and pounce on pumpkins.

Exhibit ticket required to watch tigers train.

A LITTLE DAY MUSIC Nov 4 A Little Day Music is a series of free concerts presented at noon on the first Wednesday of the month in the Grand Foyer of the Wortham Center.

Each concert is designed to deliver Da Camera’s signature programming to an audience including senior citizens, Downtown professionals, and home-schooled students. The series features a variety of chamber music and jazz, presented in an accessible one-hour concert format. Audiences are invited to enjoy their lunch while listening to the music. Free. Noon. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

713.524.5050. dacamera.com INA GARTEN Nov 4 Ina Garten shares her natural approach to food, entertaining tips, stories, and maybe even some recipes. The Emmy Award-winning host of the Barefoot Contessa on Food Network and The New York Times bestselling author will be joined on stage with a local moderator. Ina Garten delivers a charming insider’s view of her hit TV show now in its 11th season and the pleasures of good food, cooked with love and passion. She will also engage

downtownhouston.org

Nero’s 12th Birthday Nov 17 Join the Downtown Aquarium for their White Tiger, Nero’s 12th birthday party featuring a meat birthday cake, his favorite treat. Call for event schedule.

Special Offer: SUPER SATURDAYS Saturdays in September Buy one, get one free Aquarium Adventures Passes. Adventure Pass includes unlimited access to Aquarium Adventure Exhibit, Stingray Reef, and all rides with the purchase of another. Visit website to download a coupon.

the audience with a Q&A. Tickets $52-$78. 7:30 pm. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org AZAR LAWRENCE: THE LOVE SUPREME 50TH ANNIVERSARY BAND WITH JEFF “TAIN” WATTS Nov 6 A powerful tenor saxophonist in the midst of a welcome career resurgence, Azar Lawrence commemorates the 50th anniversary of John Coltrane’s A Love Supreme with a quartet featuring Benito Gonzalez, piano; Essiet Okon Essiet, bass; and Jeff “Tain” Watts on drums. Lawrence is one of the principal voices of the post-Coltrane age, having played with Elvin Jones, McCoy Tyner, Miles Davis, Freddie Hubbard and many more. Tickets start at $35. 8 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

713.524.5050. dacamera.com DANIIL SIMKIN’S INTENSIO Nov 6 Intensio features an ensemble of dancers performing four innovative, newly commissioned works from four of today’s finest modern and contemporary ballet choreographers: Alexander Ekman, Gregory Dolbashian, Jorma Elo and

Annabelle Lopez Ochoa. Tickets $33-$83. 8 pm.

Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org THE FANTASTICKS Nov 6–22 The longest-running musical in all history is given new life in this completely re-imagined production. Fall in love with Matt and Luisa, a young couple whose meddling fathers interfere with their budding romance. The breathtaking simplicity of the story and score will transport you to their world as they meet, separate, and eventually reunite in this timeless classic. Tickets $35-$40. Fridays and Saturdays 8 pm, Sundays 5 pm. The Kaleidoscope, 705 Main. 832.817.8656. bayoucitytheatrics.com DAVID SEDARIS Nov 7 One of America’s pre-eminent humor writers, David Sedaris returns to Houston to share readings of new and unpublished works. With his sardonic wit and incisive social critiques, Sedaris slices through cultural euphemisms and political correctness to observantly address the human condition today. Tickets $23-$73. 7 pm. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org BAYOU CITY JAZZ SERIES FEATURING PAUL TAYLOR & EUGE GROOVE Nov 8 Chart topping saxophonist Euge Groove and the smooth sounds of sax great Paul Taylor take the stage. Tickets $54-$80. 5 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 832.487.7041. worthamcenter.org ELIAS STRING QUARTET: BEETHOVEN PERSPECTIVES Nov 12 London’s Elias Quartet has quickly established itself as one of the most intense and vibrant quartets of its generation, fiercely devoted to the quartets of Beethoven. Don’t miss this program, with an outstanding work from each phase of the composer’s career, the kickoff to a four-concert Beethoven Perspectives series. Tickets start at $30.

8 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.524.5050. dacamera.com DVORÁK’S SERENADE FOR SPRING Nov 12-15 Frank Huang leads the Houston

Symphony from the concertmaster’s chair in this program of favorite works for chamber orchestra and strings. Written as a birthday present for his wife, Cosima, Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll contains tender and lyrical music later used in his opera of the same name. The concert also features Huang as soloist in Dvorák’s melodic Romance for Violin and Orchestra and Sarasate’s gypsy-inspired showstopper, Ziguenerweisen. Concluding the program, Dvorák’s sunny Serenade for Strings presents one gorgeous melody after another, filled with all the warmth and generosity for which this composer is so treasured.

Tickets start at $25. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana.

713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org

Press as having “spectacular London sets ... the inimitable Dickens’ tale – spiced with the usual fog and an unusual twist on the ghosts past, present and future.” A Christmas Carol - A Ghost Story of Christmas returns this year with a re-telling of Charles Dickens’ classic story, which follows Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey with the three ghostly spirits that visit him on Christmas Eve. A Christmas Carol instills a powerful message about redemption and the spirit of the holiday season. Alley Theatre, 615 Texas.

713.220.5700.alleytheatre.org LAST COMIC STANDING COMICS Nov 18 Tickets $42-$64. 8 pm. Revention Music Center, 520 Texas. 800.745.3000. reventionmusiccenter.com

DIANA KRALL Nov 13 By any standard this five-time Grammy THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA winning jazz pianist and vocalist is one of the most Nov 18–29 Following an acclaimed sold-out tour of accomplished and distinctive musicians in the world the United Kingdom, Cameron Mackintosh’s today. Respected far and wide as a wildly successful recording and performing artist, Krall remains a true spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s phenomenal musical success, The Phantom musical force. At any given moment she could be of the Opera, will come to Houston as part of a brand producing Barbra Streisand’s new album, serving as musical director and arranger for Paul McCartney or new North American tour. Hailed by critics as “bigger and better than ever before,” this production hitting the road for a good cause with Neil Young. boasts many exciting special effects including the Catch her when she makes a stop at Houston’s own show’s legendary chandelier, new scenic and lighting Hobby Center. Tickets $39-$99. 8 pm. Hobby designs, new staging and choreography. The beloved Center, 800 Bagby. 713.315.2525. story and thrilling score will be performed by a cast thehobbycenter.org and orchestra of 52, making this Phantom one of the largest productions now on tour. Tickets start at $35.

ACCORDION VIRTUOSI OF Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. 713.315.2525.

RUSSIA thehobbycenter.org Nov 14 The accordion takes center stage when this ensemble makes its HOMAGE TO THE SUN KING Houston debut. The Accordion Nov 20 Ars Lyrica’s Homage to the Sun King comes Virtuosi of Russia thrills audiences with a diverse repertoire ranging from exactly 300 years after his light finally faded in 1715.

The program features Marc-Antoine Charpentier’s folk music to arrangements of rock sparkling chamber opera Les arts florissans plus royal songs. Tickets $23-$58. 8 pm. motets by Jean-Baptiste Lully, Jean-Philippe Rameau, Wortham Center, 501 Texas. and chamber music by François Couperin. It’s a rare 713.227.4SPA. spahouston.org chance to savor French Baroque masterworks in full A CHRISTMAS CAROL – A GHOST historical dress, with instruments and dance steps from the Ancien Régime. Tickets $37-$59. Hobby STORY OF CHRISTMAS Center, 800 Bagby. 713.315.2525. thehobbycenter.org Nov 15–Dec 28 Houston’s seasonal favorite described by the Houston

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MARKET SQUARE PARK

Fall Calendar

Market Square Park is open daily from 6 am–11 pm. Blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics are welcome; food, beer and wine are available for purchase at Niko Niko’s. No glass containers or outside alcoholic beverages are allowed. Metered on-street parking is available and free after 6 pm. $5 parking is available nightly across the street at Market Square Garage. 301 Milam. marketsquarepark.com Be sure to visit Market Square Park on Facebook and Twitter for special event announcements, weather-related updates and other happenings in the neighborhood’s eclectic dining and bar scene.

SPECIAL EVENTS BLANKET BINGO Sep 10 The stakes are high for Blanket Bingo! Bring your blanket, lawn chairs or snag one of the tables at the park for a night of music and great prizes. $10 admission includes one bingo packet. Additional games and daubers can be purchased for $1 each. 6–9 pm. Bingo begins at 7 pm.

READY HOUSTON PREPAREDNESS KIT CHEF’S CHALLENGE Sep 26 Houston-area top-chefs compete against one another to find out who can render the best possible cooking under less than favorable conditions. Stipulations include using pre-selected ingredients and non-perishable food items typically found in a survival preparedness kit and camp stoves to simulate food preparation conditions during a disaster. Local celebrity judges will help choose a favorite dish and the winner will receive a commemorative trophy to display in his or her restaurant. The Chef ’s Challenge is part of the ongoing regional Ready Houston campaign to inform residents about the need to prepare for emergencies before they happen.

Saturday, 11 am–1 pm.

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A NIGHT AT MARKET SQUARE Oct 17 Market Square Park is celebrating its 5th anniversary! Join us for a historic night out by exploring the neighborhood’s eclectic bars and restaurants. Enjoy tasty bites and special offerings all night long plus lots of surprises along the way, like The HOU Show with Mills and Antoine, an interactive live show sprinkled with celebrity interviews, skits, videos and very special musical guests, Moji.

Saturday, 7 pm to closing.

HTX BIKEFEST Nov 7 Hosted by Black Gold Cycling, this festival brings cyclists and bike enthusiasts from all over the city to celebrate their favorite mode of transportation, bikes! The event kicks off with an all-day swap meet boasting more than 50 vendors focused on the bike-friendly lifestyle and will feature a variety of demos from various bike sports such as bike polo, bmx/fixed gear freestyle, various cycling contests, a huge obstacle race course and sprint contests presented by Texas Gold Sprint’em. Saturday, 10 am–6 pm.

downtownhouston.org

SAVE THE DATE DESIGN CRAFT HOLIDAY MARKET Dec 5 DesignCraft is AIGA Houston’s 5th annual outdoor market featuring the work of local artists, crafters, creatives and more.

The one-day event allows Houstonians to discover local, well-designed and crafted goods in their city, and gives vendors an opportunity to sell their work. Featuring demonstrations by local artisans and live music.

Saturday, 10 am–5 pm.

MOVIES ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE CINEMAS ROLLING ROADSHOW PRESENTS THE QUIRKY & THE CLASSICS Forget about trekking to the ‘burbs for your Alamo Drafthouse fix and come Downtown instead! Join the Rolling Roadshow for these fantastic films under the stars: Sep 4 Monty Python and the Holy Grail (PG) 1975, 91 min. Friday, 8 pm.

Sep 19 Final Four Presents, Hoosiers (PG) 1986, 114 min. Saturday, 8 pm.

Oct 28 The Shining (R) 1980, 146 min. Wednesday, 7:30 pm.

Nov 20 West Side Story (not rated) 1961, 152 min. Friday, 7 pm.

CONCERTS PINE LEAF BOYS Sep 18 Louisiana’s finest, four-time Grammy-Nominated, world-renown Pine Leaf Boys are making their way to Downtown Houston. These guys have made a name for themselves by presenting their own inimitable brand of Cajun music with youthful exuberance. Friday, 7:30 pm.

MUSIQA Oct 24 Six percussionists from Houston and Corpus Christi will gather to strike six slats of wood in Musiqa’s presentation of Michael Gordon’s Timber, an hour-long work performed on instruments rounded up at the local lumber store. The percussionists produce waves of poly-rhythmic complexity that will wash over Market Square Park and entrance listeners. While the tonal palette of the work may appear simple at first, the rhythms produce a kaleidoscopic sound world that is constantly mutating. Saturday, 8 pm.

TAPESTRY Nov 20–22 Infused with incredible melodies and unforgettable lyrics, Carole King’s Grammy Award-winning album Tapestry remains a gold standard in pop music. Mike and the orchestra celebrate the singer-songwriter, whose life and career inspired the 2014 Broadway hit Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. Tony nominee Liz Callaway (Broadway’s Baby), who has also appeared on Broadway in Cats and Miss Saigon, joins the orchestra to cover King’s chart-topping tracks like You’ve Got a Friend, So Far Away and Natural Woman. Tickets start at $25.

Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana. 713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org BRAHM’S HUNGARIAN DANCES Nov 21 Performances include Sibelius’ Valse Triste, Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence, and Brahms’ Hungarian Dances. Tickets start at $18. 8 pm.

Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.533.0080. mercuryhouston.org WORTHAM TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Nov 25 Join us at the 28th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Wortham Theater Center! Costumed characters from Houston Ballet’s The Nutcracker will be on hand to greet the public for the occasion, which has become a holiday tradition for many. 11 am. Free. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

832.487.7000. worthamcenter.org

RECREATION BAYOU BIKERS Sep 6, Oct 4, Nov 1 Bayou Bikers meet at Market Square on the first Sunday of the month for 25 to 40 mile bike rides exploring the bayous of Houston. Rides are open to all. Mountain bikes or bikes with fat tires are necessary. This is an informal group whose purpose is to show Houstonians and visitors the beauty of Houston’s waterways. First Sunday of the month, 8 am.

CRITICAL MASS Sep 25, Oct 30, Nov 27 Critical Mass is an informal bike group that meets the last Friday of every month to ride around the city, raise awareness and advocate for a bicycle-friendly urban environment. All bikes are welcome.

7:15 pm.

HOUSTON BCYCLE STATION Park visitors can purchase daily, weekly or annual memberships and explore Downtown on two wheels. Thanks to Blue Cross Blue Shield, this bike-sharing program has expanded from three to 14 stations throughout Downtown, as well as in other areas of Houston. houston.bcycle.com

THE NUTCRACKER Nov 27–Dec 27 A wonderful ballet for the entire family, The Nutcracker is the perfect way to introduce young children to the power and beauty of classical dance. Join Clara on her unforgettable journey as she travels to the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets, and marvel as the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Nutcracker Prince dance a pas de deux of crystalline beauty. Tickets $34-$130. Wortham Center, 501 Texas.

713.227.ARTS. houstonballet.org

start at $25. Jones Hall, 615 Louisiana.

713.224.7575. houstonsymphony.org

FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS CITY HALL FARMERS MARKET Wednesdays, Sep 9–Dec 16 It’s a food-lovers delight at Urban Harvest’s City Hall Farmers Market. The market hosts more than 40 vendors around the City Hall reflection pool with an array of locally grown fruits and vegetables, a variety of prepared lunch items made from local ingredients, as well as local food trucks. Wednesdays, 11:30 am–1:30 pm.

Hermann Square, 901 Bagby. 713.880.5540. urbanharvest.org UNTAPPED BEER FESTIVAL Sep 12 Enjoy this afternoon festival at Discovery Green featuring 300+ craft beers and eight bands, including Cold War Kids and Twin Shadows. 2:30– 10 pm. Tickets start at $32. untapped-festival.com FRIDAY FLICKS ON THE LAWN Spread out on The Lawn at GreenStreet the third Friday of each month this fall for a free movie night under the moon. Movies begin at 8 pm. GreenStreet, 1201 Fannin. 832.320.1201. greenstreetdowntown.com Sep 18 Hunger Games (PG-13) 2012, 142 min.

Oct 16 Casper (PG) 1995, 100 min.

Nov 20 The Santa Clause (PG) 1994, 97 min.

PUERTO RICAN CUBAN FESTIVAL Sep 19–20 A day of culture, celebration and live music that features all the flavors of the region through art, music, food, fashion and car shows.

Tickets start at $13. Tranquility Park, 400 Rusk. prcfestival.com

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GREENTOBERFEST Sep 26 GreenStreet, with the help of Young Texans Against Cancer, will transform into a greengarten (much like a biergarten) to kick off the Oktoberfest season with live music, delicious food, beer and games. Greentoberfest will bring together local breweries and restaurants to create a unique German experience in the heart of Downtown Houston. GreenStreet, 1201 Fannin.

832.320.1201. greenstreetdowntown.com

PROKOFIEV’S ROMEO OCT OBE R3 AND JULIET Nov 27-29 The Houston Symphony welcomes one of China’s most respected conductors, Long Yu, who heads the China Philharmonic and the Shanghai and Guangzhou Symphony Orchestras.

Discover beloved BUFFALO BAYOU PARK GRAND Chinese folk melodies in OPENING Li Huanzhi’s Spring Festival Overture and Oct 3 Celebrate, recreate and create at the musical allusions to Egypt and the Far East in Saintgrand opening of Buffalo Bayou Park. The event Saëns’ exotic and touching Piano Concerto No. 5, will highlight various destinations and amenities in performed by brilliant pianist, composer and writer the 160-acre park that stretches from Shepherd Stephen Hough. Finally, be swept away by Drive to Sabine Street. Enjoy a day full of activities Prokofiev’s classic ballet score, Romeo and Juliet, ranging from walking tours, lectures, children’s whose melodies perfectly evoke Shakespeare’s crafts, recreational opportunities, delicious food, live timeless story of doomed adolescent love. Tickets music and programming that will showcase 1:30

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DISCOVERY Fall Calendar GREEN The events listed are confirmed at the time of printing. For a full listing of Discovery Green summer 2015 events, please visit the calendar at discoverygreen.com Blankets, lawn chairs and picnics are welcome; food, beer and wine are available for purchase at the Lake House. No glass containers or outside alcoholic beverages permitted. Most events are free, unless noted otherwise. 1500 McKinney.

SPECIAL EVENTS Sundown at The Grove presented by Southwest Airlines Wednesdays, through Sep 9 Join Discovery Green and The Grove for craft brews, chef-inspired food pairings, live music and the best views in Houston at the Fourth Annual Sundown at the Grove. 5:30–8 pm. thegrovehouston.com/sundown The Fab 40 Takes on The Who: Tommy at the Green Sep 5 More than 40 Houston musicians recreate - note for note – Tommy, the iconic rock opera by The Who. 8 pm.

Dog Days Sep 18–20 A dog-gone fun weekend!

Watch canine athletes from Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana compete in DockDogs, plus enjoy a doggie costume contest! Visit website for information on how your dog can participate and for daily schedule.

Discovery Green Flea by Night presented by Green Mountain Energy Sep 19 & Oct 17 Food trucks, live music and vendors selling vintage clothing, antiques, jewelry, art and more under the stars and twinkle lights. 6–10 pm.

Families on the Green Sep 20 Fun for all ages! Special fundraiser to support Discovery Green’s free programming. $50 per person, children 3 and under free.

Purchase tickets online. 2–5 pm.

Gospel on the Green Sep 25 A glorious night of gospel

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music under the stars featuring Houston’s own Jones Family Singers and the acclaimed Grammy-winning Sweet Honey in the Rock. 7:30–10 pm.

H-Town Cinema Celebration Oct 2 Celebrate Houston cinema. See an award-winning film voted on by Houstonians. 8 pm.

Tuesday Talks on the Green Oct 27 Join two heroic figures to hear how they changed history. Jim Obergefell’s quest for justice led to the U. S. Supreme Court‘s landmark decision legalizing same-sex marriage across the United States. Eric Alva was the first Marine seriously injured in the Iraq War and went on to be a key figure in the fight to repeal the “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy regarding gay and lesbian service in the U.S. armed forces. 7–8:30 pm.

Scream on the Green Oct 30 Have a spooky good time at Houston’s eighth annual citywide costume contest and Halloween celebration! Prizes, music and more!

Watch The Book of Life presented by Bank of America. (PG) 2014, 95 min. 6–10 pm. Movie starts at 7:30 pm.

Discovery Green Flea presented by Green Mountain Energy Nov 21 A destination market featuring an array of artful kitsch, vintage items, mid-century furniture, recycled and repurposed objects and collectibles with live music, food trucks and more!

11 am–5 pm.

The ICE at Discovery Green Nov 24–Feb 8 Ice skating returns to Downtown Houston with the opening

downtownhouston.org

celebration of The ICE at Discovery Green on November 24. Lace up your skates and get ready for a memorable winter experience on the largest ice skating rink in the Southwest! See website for schedule of events and ticket pricing.

glass spheres atop slender stems connected by illuminated fiber optic.

6 am–11 pm daily.

Entertainment

Esrawe + Cadena’s Los Trompos Nov 15–Mar 22 Mexican artists Héctor Esrawe and Ignacio Cadena created this interactive exhibit of 25 larger-than-life “trompos” or spinning tops of various shapes, colors and sizes. See website for schedule of events.

Bank of America’s Screen on the Green Catch a free flick in the shadow of Houston’s skyline. Arrive one hour early for contests and activities.

Sep 26 The Princess and the Frog (G) 2009, 95 min. 8 pm.

Oct 10 The Goonies (PG) 1985, 111 min. 7:45 pm.

Oct 30 The Book of Life (PG) 2014, 95 min. 7:30 pm.

Nov 6 Cinderella (PG) 2015, 112 min.

7 pm.

Field of Light by Bruce Munro Nov 24–Feb 8 The captivating site-specific art installation, Field of Light, by internationally-recognized artist Bruce Munro returns to Discovery Green. Field of Light comprises 4,550 radiant, frosted

Sounds Like Houston!

Thursday Concerts presented by green mountain energy Family-friendly concerts in the park featuring the best in Gulf Coast music.

Free. 6:30 pm. *Recycle your Saint Arnold six-pack

ART

carriers and double your reward points at this concert.

Sep 17 Carolyn Wonderland, The Bluebonnets (opening act) Sep 24 Dale Watson and The Lonestars, Rosie Flores (opening act) Oct 1 C.J. Chenier and The Red Hot Louisiana Band, Ruben Moreno (opening act) Oct 8 Max Baca & Los Texmaniacs, Amanda Cevallos & The High Hands (opening act) Oct 15 Jewel Brown, Milton Hopkins, Trudy Lynn and Steve Krase (opening act) Oct 22 Quiet Company, Say Girl Say (opening act)

HEALTHY LIVING Chipotle Music and Movie Series Live local music followed by a great green film.

Sep 18 More Than Honey (not rated) 2012, 95 min.

Opening music by Folk Family Revival. 7 pm.

Oct 9 Hanna Ranch (not rated) 2014, 73 min.

Opening music by BLSHS. 8 pm

WEEKLY EVENTS Kayak Rides & Stand Up Paddleboarding on Kinder Lake Sep 6–Oct 26 Enjoy Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) or a relaxing, guided kayak ride. No reservation required. $5 for Kayak and $10 for SUP. Recycling Saturdays Saturdays, through Nov 21 Bring your glass, paper, plastic and aluminum to a recycling station at Discovery Green. 11 am–2 pm.

fitness in the park

Mindfulness Meditation Series Sep 7, Oct 5, Nov 2 Lectures, exercises and guided meditations led by Jung Center experts.

12pm–1 pm.

FAMILIES & CHILDREN Toddler Tuesdays Tuesdays, Sep 1–Oct 27 Story time and activities with some of your favorite characters. 10:30 am.

Sep 1 Veggie Tales – Love Your Neighbor Sep 8 Celebrating Heroes Sep 15 Daniel Visits the Library Sep 22 Read To Me Sep 29 The Lucky Monkey Oct 6 Music, Magic and More with AndyRoo Oct 13 The Berenstain Bears Get Stage Fright Oct 20 Sesame Street – I Can Cook Oct 27 It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown Learn a Language!

Saturdays, Sep 5–Nov 14 Start your little one on a journey toward learning a new language.

11:30 am–12:30 pm.

Orbit Slams Sep 11, Oct 9, Nov 13 Writers In The Schools hosts a writing and slam workshop for poets ages 13–19. 6–7:30 pm.

Take Me Outdoors Houston Sep 26 Seventh annual family-oriented festival.

Sample all the great outdoor activities with Texas Parks and Wildlife. 10 am–3 pm.

Toddler Time Oct 6 Color Your World with music, magic and more by Houston’s own AndyRoo. 6:30 pm– 8 pm.

Bum-ba Toning Mondays, 6:30–7:30 pm

Young Writers Workshop Saturdays, through Nov 21 Writers in the Schools, HPL Express and Discovery Green offer Houston’s only free and open writing workshop for kids. 10:30–11:30 am.

CIRCUS ARTS Tuesdays, 5:30–7 pm

OTHER EVENTS

YOGA Mondays, 11–12 pm

Core Focused Yoga Tuesdays, 6:30–7:30 pm Zumba Wednesdays, 6:30–7:30 pm parkour Thursdays, 6:30–7:30 pm hatha Yoga Saturdays, 9–10 am Discovery Hoop Dance Sundays, 10:30–11:30 am

Houston Korean Festival Oct 17 Connect with Korea through an authentic culinary and cultural experience when the Korean American Society of Houston Hosts the 2015 Korean Festival. Free. 10 am–10 pm. koreanfestivalhouston.com Annual Picnic in the Park with S.E.A.R.C.H. Nov 5 Spend an evening under the stars enjoying a festive party that addresses the serious issue of homelessness. 6–9 pm. Ticketed event. searchhomeless.org

Houston’s diverse arts community. The day will conclude with an evening procession and fireworks.

Free. 1:30–9:30 pm. The Water Works at Buffalo Bayou, 105 Sabine Street. 713.752.0314. buffalobayou.org HERITAGE FAMILY DAY Oct 4 Join The Heritage Society for an afternoon of old-fashioned fun! Free. 1–4 pm. The Heritage Society, Museum Gallery, 1100 Bagby Street.

713.655.1912. heritagesociety.org BAYOU CITY ART FESTIVAL DOWNTOWN Oct 10–11 A sophisticated outdoor gallery under the iconic Houston skyline, transforming the streets of Downtown into artistic avenues bursting with color and culture. The two-day festival showcases the works of over 350 of the finest artists and craftsmen in the world. Adding to the festive outdoor gallery are a variety of food options, a creative zone for children, and a stage with ongoing multicultural entertainment. Tickets $17 adult, $5 child, children under 5 free. 10 am– 6 pm. 901 Bagby. bayoucityartfestival.com KBR KIDS DAY Oct 17 Join Buffalo Bayou Partnership and KBR for the 9th Annual KBR Kids Day on Buffalo Bayou, a day filled with free family fun! Children and adults will delight in hands-on nature activities, live entertainment, music, food, birds of prey shows, kayak demonstrations and pontoon boat tours on the bayou. Free. 1–4 pm. Sabine Promenade, 150 Sabine. 713.752.0314. buffalobayou.org 7TH ANNUAL BARKITECTURE HOUSTON Oct 23–24 Barkitecture Houston returns for its 7th year to GreenStreet. The annual doghouse

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designing event, benefitting Pup Squad Animal Rescue, will feature one-of-a-kind, custom-built doghouses for sale–all created by teams composed of local artists, designers and architecture firms from the Bayou City.

GreenStreet, 1201 Fannin.

832.320.1201. greenstreetdowntown.com VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION Nov 11 The City of Houston will show support for our Armed Forces at the annual Houston Salutes American Heroes Veterans Day Celebration. The AT&T Job & Resource Fair will be on-site to recruit and offer employment resources from more than 30 corporations . The US Family Health Plan’s Health Fair will offer free health screenings and flu shots to veterans. The ceremony will salute veterans and military personnel, with a notable public figure delivering a keynote address followed by the Veterans Day Parade presented by H-E-B. Marching bands, military organizations, ROTC leaders and veterans of all eras will participate in the parade. Free. 10 am-2 pm. 901 Bagby. houstonspecialevents.org HOUSTON CINEMA ARTS FESTIVAL 2015 Nov 12–19 Houston Cinema Arts Festival, a film and multimedia arts festival, showcases films by and about artists in the visual, performing, and literary arts. This eight-day multi-venue festival includes over 50 narrative and documentary films, an interactive video installation gallery, 16mm

screening room, live multimedia performances, Meet the Makers work-shops, free outdoor events and free student field trip screenings.

Tickets start at $12. Sundance Cinemas, 501 Texas. hcaf14.org HOLIDAY TEA Nov 15 Share tea, sweets and savories with friends and family as you learn more about tea service and history. Each year the Holiday Tea presents a theme related to Houston’s diverse history. Tickets: $50 adults, $35 children. 3-5 pm.

The Heritage Society, Museum Gallery, 1100 Bagby. 713.655.1912. heritagesociety.org LAST COMIC STANDING COMICS Nov 18 Revention Music Center, 520 Texas.

800.745.3000. reventionmusiccenter.com VIA COLORI STREET FESTIVAL Nov 21–22 Amazing chalk artists transform the streets of Downtown into colorful optical illusions and masterpieces in a festival benefiting the Center for Hearing and Speech. Enjoy live music on three stages, food, a beer and wine garden, as well as activities for all ages. Free. Hermann Square and City Hall, 900 Smith. houstonviacolori.com 66TH ANNUAL H-E-B THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE Nov 26 The Houston Thanksgiving Day Parade is one of the oldest parades in the country. Decorative floats, colorful marching bands, high-flying balloons, and other uniquely artistic entries will take over Downtown’s streets for this special day of celebration. The parade route begins at Lamar and Smith Street. Viewing areas include: Smith to Walker, Walker to Milam, Milam to Pease, Pease to Louisiana, Louisiana to Clay. Parade ends at Smith and Dallas. 9 am. Free. houstonspecialevents.org

SPEAKER SERIES Authors in Architecture: Donna Kacmar Sep 1 What are the challenges architects face when designing dwelling spaces of a limited size?

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And what can these projects tell us about architecture – and architectural principles – in general? Award-winning architect Donna Kacmar introduces 20 real-life examples of small houses.

Each project is under 1,000 square feet (100 square meters) in size and, brought together, the designs reveal an attitude toward materiality, light, enclosure and accom-modation which is unique to minimal dwellings. Free. 5:30 pm. Architecture Center of Houston, 315 Capitol. 713.520.0155. aiahouston.org SEGREGATION AT HOUSTON’S GOLD AND RED ROOMS Sep 9 In 1971, activists from the Gay Liberation Front Houston picketed the Red Room to pressure the popular bar to serve black customers. What does that moment tell us about racial politics in Houston’s early gay community, and what lessons might that past carry for us today as some states pass laws allowing businesses to select whom they will serve? Members are free, non-members are $5.

6:30 pm. The Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby.

713.655.1912. heritagesociety.org JERRY AND MARVY FINGER LECTURE SERIES: JOHN P. MCGOVERN, MD: A BIOGRAPHER’S PERSPECTIVE BY BYAN BOUTWELL Sep 17 Author Bryant Boutwell will discuss his new book, which chronicles the influential life of his long-time friend and colleague, Dr. John P McGovern, whose holistic approach to medicine and team approach to health care transcended the traditional boundaries of institutional identities and medical specialties. Members are free, nonmembers $5. Noon-1 pm. The Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby. 713.655.1912. heritagesociety.org INPRINT PRESENTS MARY KARR AND THE ART OF MEMOIR Sep 17 Mary Karr, celebrated memoirist of The Liar’s Club, Cherry, and Lit, appears in a special event presented by Inprint in association with Brazos Bookstore and Christ Church Cathedral She shares her new book The Art of Memoir, which examines the genre that has brought her so much success.

Tickets $30, which includes a copy of the book.

7:30 pm. Christ Church Cathedral, 1117 Texas.

713.521.2026. inprinthouston.org INPRINT JONATHAN FRANZEN READING Sep 21 Jonathan Franzen, National Book Award winner and Pulitzer Prize and PEN/Faulkner Award finalist, whose novel The Corrections sold more than 3 million copies, will read from his new novel Purity to launch the 2015/2016 Inprint Margarett Root Brown Reading Series. Tickets $5. 7:30 pm.

Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.521.2026. inprinthouston.org INPRINT SALMAN RUSHDIE READING Nov 9 Salman Rushdie, recipient of the Booker Prize and Best of the Booker for his novel Midnight’s

Children and author of 10 other acclaimed novels, will appear as part of the 2015/2016 Inprint Margarett Root Brown Reading Series to read from his new novel Two Years Eight Months and TwentyEight Nights. Tickets $5. 7:30 pm. Wortham Center, 501 Texas. 713.521.2026. inprinthouston.org

EXHIBITS & VISUAL ARTS KNOWN AND UNDERKNOWN – Everyone knows Someone but not Everyone knows Everyone Through Sep 14 Art aficionados will love the opportunity to explore the works of 23 local artists on display at One Allen Center Gallery. Presented

by Arts Brookfield, the exhibition titled Known and Underknown features a selection of works from our community’s emerging talent as well as pieces by more established artists. Free. One Allen Center, second level, 500 Dallas. Weekdays, 8 am–6 pm.

713.336.2280. artsbrookfield.com FOREST WINDOW Through Sep 18 Well-known Texas artists James Surls and Sharon Kopriva will have a selection of their works on display at Total Plaza. Presented by Arts Brookfield, the exhibition titled Forest Window is curated by Sally Reynolds and addresses the importance of the natural environment, with Kopriva’s focus on the cycle of life and Surls’ acknowledgement of the sources and centers of nature. Free. Total Plaza, 1201 Louisiana, lobby.

Weekdays, 8 am-6 pm. 713.336.2280. artsbrookfield.com Throughout! Houston’s GLBT History Through Sep 19 This exhibit will offer the most comprehensive exhibit of Houston’s GLBT history ever presented in Houston. Admission to the gallery is free. 10 am-4 pm. The Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby Street. 713.655.1912. heritagesociety.org STORIES IN STEEL, ED WILSON SELECTED WORKS Through Nov 19 Arts Brookfield presents, Stories in Steel, Ed Wilson-Selected Works, an exhibition that encourages viewers to discover their own story in each of Wilson’s metal creations. Free. Heritage Plaza, 1111 Bagby. Weekdays 8 am-6 pm.

713.336.2280. artsbrookfield.com BRACEROS: PAINTINGS INSPIRED BY A HISTORY OF LABOR Sep 1 Nov 1 The U.S. and Mexican government instituted the Bracero Program in 1942, allowing for the importation of temporary contract laborers from Mexico to the U.S. during the Second World War. Inspired by this history, artist Gabriela Magana, offers her perspective through rich and

colorful paintings. Free. Central Library, 500 McKinney. 832.393.1313. houstonlibrary.org REMEMBERING WORLD WAR II: HOUSTON’S LATINO VETERANS Sep 1–Nov 14 World War II was a major turning point for Latinos as the war offered a space to display their allegiance and patriotism on and off the battlefield. When the United States declared war on Dec 8, 1941 Latinos in Houston were among the thousands who rushed to enlist.

Estimates state that roughly 500,000 U.S. Hispanics served during war. Through archival documents and photographs held at the Houston Metropolitan Research Center, and through oral histories conducted by staff and volunteers, this exhibit reflects the experiences of and pays homage to Houston’s Latina and Latino veterans of the Second World War. Free. Julia Ideson Building, 550 McKinney. 832.393.1313. houstonlibrary.org VISUAL ARTS ALLIANCE 33RD MEMBERSHIP EXHIBITION Sep 21–Nov 20 Arts Brookfield presents Visual Arts Alliance 33rd Membership Exhibition. Free. 1600 Smith, Concourse Level. Weekdays, 8 am-6 pm.

713.336.2280. artsbrookfield.com THE CHARACTER OF CLOTH Sep 28-Nov 20 Arts Brookfield in collaboration with The Houston Grand Opera presents The Character of Cloth, a stunning exhibition of eleven costumes from seven HGO operas. Luscious, humorous, poignant and rich, the costumes were conceived by award-winning designers including: Zandra Rhodes, Christopher Oram, Joan Guillen, Anita Yavich, Murell Horton, Zack Brown and Jessica Jahn. Free. Total Plaza, 1201 Louisiana, lobby. Weekdays, 8 am-6 pm. 713.336.2280. artsbrookfield.com ASIAN AMERICANS IN HOUSTON: A KALEIDOSCOPE OF CULTURES Oct 1-Jan 16 The focus of the exhibition will be on Asian Americans in Houston and their many contributions to our city and its culture. Asian Americans in Houston is the result of a collaborative effort with the University of Houston’s Houston History Magazine. Free.

10 am-4 pm. The Heritage Society, 1100 Bagby.

713.655.1912. heritagesociety.org

CONCERTS REVENTION Music Center Sep 11 Turnpike Troubadors Sep 13 Crowder, NF, Finding Favor, 3for3 Sep 18 Gloria Trevi Sep 19 The NBHD (The Neighbourhood), Bad Suns, Hunny Sep 25 Zedd Oct 2 Twenty One Pilots, Echosmith, Finish Ticket Oct 5 Of Monsters and Men Oct 6 Walk the Moon, HOLYCHILD, Sheppard Oct 9 K. Michelle, Azealia Banks Oct 12 Marina and the Diamonds Oct 13 Garbage Oct 16 All Time Low, Sleeping with Sirens, One Ok Rock Oct 23 Jackson Browne Nov 4 AWOLNATION Nov 25 Joe Bonamassa Revention Music Center’s online calendar is updated regularly. Visit their website for more info and to purchase tickets. Revention Music Center, 520 Texas. 800.745.3000. reventionmusiccenter.com House of Blues Sep 5 Motöhead Sep 6 Fat Joe Sep 8 Passion Pit Sep 9 Hollywood Undead Sep 10 Lila Downs Sep 11 Bricks in the Wall Sep 12 The Tallest Man on Earth Sep 16 Tamia Sep 17 That 1 Guy, Indigo Girls Sep 18 Chris Knight & Charlie Robinson Sep 19 Gardens & Villa Sep 20 Swervedriver Sep 21 Nick Jonas Sep 23 Catfish and the Bottlemen Sep 24 MS MR Sep 25 Blues Traveler Sep 26 Zoso, Emily West Sep 28 Tyler Ward Oct 1 Beach House Oct 3 Charli XCX, Bleachers Oct 4 In the Valley Below

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Oct 5 Albert Hammond Jr., George Ezra Oct 6 Billy Idol Oct 8 Brand New, Manchester Orchestra, Kevin Devine & The Goddamn Band Oct 10 The Tragically Hip Oct 11 New Found Glory, Yellowcard Oct 12 Marina and the Diamonds Oct 13 Run The Jewels Oct 14 Ani Difranco Oct 18 Martin Sexton Oct 22 Family Force 5 Oct 24 Maddie & Tae Oct 25 Taylor Davis Oct 29 Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls Oct 30 Allen Stone Oct 31 The Cult Nov 5 MAX Nov 6 Raheem DeVaughn & Leela James Nov 8 SOJA/Iration Nov 13 Leon Bridges Nov 16 Rise Against Nov 18 Mayday Parade Nov 21 SoMo Nov 22 Collective Soul Nov 27 Parkway Drive HOB’s online calendar is updated regularly.

Visit their website for more info and to purchase tickets.

House of Blues, GreenStreet, 1204 Caroline.

888.402.5837. hob.com/houston Toyota Center Sep 5 Motley Crue Sep 10 Ricardo Arjona Sep 18 Ariana Grande Sep 30 Ricky Martin Oct 16 Marc Anthony Nov 1 Miguel Bose Nov 6 Billy Joel Nov 15 Juan Gabriel Toyota Center’s online calendar is updated regularly. Visit their website for more info and to purchase tickets. Toyota Center, 1510 Polk.

713.4HOUTIX. toyotacentertix.com BBVA COMPASS Center Sep 3 Ed Sheeran BBVA Compass Stadium’s online calendar is updated regularly. Visit their website for more info and to purchase tickets. BBVA Compass Stadium, 2200 Texas. bbvacompassstadium.com MINUTE MAID PARK Sep 9 Taylor Swift Visit Ticketmaster’s website for more info and to purchase tickets. Minute Maid Park, 501 Crawford.

713.259.8687. ticketmaster.com

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EXPOS Sep 4–6 Amazing Comic-Con Sep 5–6 High Caliber Gun & Knife Show Sep 18–20 Houston Antiques + Art + Design Show Oct 1–4 Texas Contemporary Art Fair Oct 10–11 High Caliber Gun & Knife Show Oct 28–Nov 1 2015 International Quilt Festival Nov 26–29 56th Annual AutoRama The George R. Brown Convention Center’s online calendar is updated regularly. Visit their website for more info and to purchase tickets. George R. Brown Convention Center, 1001 Avenida De Las Americas. 713.853.8000. houstonconventionctr.com

TOURS WAUGH BAT COLONY BOAT TOURS Sep 11 & 26 Guests will enjoy an amazing view of the bats’ dusk emergence from Waugh Bridge and learn more about these 250,000 magnificent Mexican free-tailed bats that share the city with us. Weather permitting. Tickets $30 per person (children under 4 are not permitted). Reservations required. Boat departs 30 minutes before sunset (1½-hour boat ride). Sabine Promenade boat launch, 150 Sabine. 713.752.0314. buffalobayou.org Second Saturday Boat Rides Sep 12 & Oct 10 Escape from the city and enjoy the cool breeze as you glide along Buffalo Bayou’s waters during the afternoon.

Look for graceful herons, jumping fish, and even an occasional alligator sunning on the banks.

30 minute boat rides.

10 am-2 pm. Tickets $7- adults, $5- children ages 4–12 (cash only; payment taken when boarding). Sabine Promenade boat launch.

713.752.0314 ext. 103. buffalobayou.org

TOWERS & TREES DOWNTOWN WALKING TOUR Sep 24 Towers & Trees explores the magnificent architecture between Hermann Square and Discovery Green as well as the changing dynamics of our Downtown. We’ll look at the partially realized civic center plan surrounding Hermann Square, the historic backbone of Main Street, the ambitious 1970 proposal that would become Houston Center, the internationally recognized icons from the skyscraper boom of the ‘70s and ‘80s, and Discovery Green, the newest catalyst for Downtown development in Houston. Tickets $10.

6 pm. Meets outside One Shell Plaza at 901 Smith on the northeast corner of McKinney and Smith Street. 713.520.0155. aiahouston.org “LOOKING BACK” BOAT TOUR WITH LOUIS AULBACH Oct 3 & Nov 21 Learn about Houston’s rich history from local historian Louis Aulbach while cruising in Buffalo Bayou Partnership’s pontoon boat, Spirit of the Bayou. Reservations required. 10 am-11:30 am. Tickets $40. Location: Sabine Promenade boat launch. 713.752.0314 ext. 103. buffalobayou.org ROCK, BUILDING, STONES WALKING TOUR Nov 14 This architectural and geological walking tour of Downtown goes beyond the typical architectural focus to include the provenance and geology of the buildings’ materials. These sedimentary, igneous and metamorphic rocks have come from all over the world and now call Houston home. The tour is inspired by similar walks in Europe and is adapted from the Houston Geological Society’s 1995 tour, Houston Building Stones. Tickets $10. 10 am. Meets at the southeast corner of Austin and McKinney Streets.

713.520.0155. aiahouston.org BUFFALO BAYOU WALKING TOUR Nov 21 Explore the city from a vantage point most people don’t see: the waterway that gave Houston life and has been its backbone for 175 years.

Architecture Center Houston (ArCH), with the cooperation of Buffalo Bayou Partnership, invite you to a stroll along Buffalo Bayou Parkway for an overview of Downtown Houston’s history and architecture from its beginnings in 1836 to the efforts to revitalize the central city today. The tour showcases the innovative bayou reclamation efforts of the City of Houston, Harris County, and Buffalo Bayou Partnership, while topically discussing history and preservation, contemporary

architecture, the bayou, and adjacent parkland.

Tickets $10. 10 am. Meets in the northeast corner of Market Square Park, 301 Milam. 713.520.0155. aiahouston.org DISCOVER HOUSTON TOURS Ghost tours, tunnel walks and rail tours, architectural tours and more are available. Tour guide Sandra Lord is the resident expert and has been conducting Downtown and Houston tours since 1988. Ticket prices vary. 713.222.9255. discoverhoustontours.com HERITAGE SOCIETY HISTORIC HOMES TOUR Nestled among 19 acres in the heart of Downtown Houston, the Heritage Society boasts eight historic structures dating from 1823 to 1905. Each historic structure is authentically restored to reflect its original magnificence. Tickets $15 adults, $12 seniors, $6 children 6-8 and kids under 5 are free.

Sam Houston Park, 1100 Bagby. Times vary.

713.655.1912. heritagesociety.org MINUTE MAID PARK TOUR Get a behind-the-scenes look at Minute Maid Park including historic Union Station, broadcasting booth or press boxes, Astros’ or visitors’ dugout, luxury suites and much more. Tickets $9 adults, $7 seniors and $5 for kids 3-14. Mon-Sat 10 am, noon, 2 pm. Minute Maid Park, 501 Crawford.

713.259.8687. astros.com SAINT ARNOLD BREWING COMPANY TOUR Come visit Texas’ oldest craft brewery in their new location. Every Saturday, the doors open at 11 am and groups rotate in and out of the facility in an open-house format until 2 pm. If Saturdays don’t work for you, check out their weekday open house at 3 pm. After the tour, guests are welcome to stay for a free tasting. Tickets $7, no reservations required. All minors under the age of 21 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. 2000 Lyons at I-10. saintarnold.com

SEGWAY TOURS OF HOUSTON Like the rest of Texas, Downtown Houston is a pretty big place to walk around. There are a lot of things to see up close and from a distance.

Experience the Bayou City, once the capitol city of a sovereign country, from a talking perspective within a few hours while you have effortless fun on a Segway. $75-$80. Meet at Wortham Center, 501 Texas. Daily: 10 am, noon, 2 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm.

866.673.4929. segwaytoursofhouston.com

SPORTS Sep 17 WWE Presents NXT LIVE! Revention Music Center, 520 Texas. 800.745.3000. reventionmusiccenter.com

Sep 20 WWE Night of Champions (PPV). $25$400. Toyota Center, 1510 Polk. houstontoyotacenter.com Oct 3 UFC 192: Cormier vs. Gustafsson. $50-$350.

Toyota Center, 1510 Polk. houstontoyotacenter.com HOUSTON ASTROS Sep 1–2 Astros vs. Mariners (Sep 2–College Night) Sep 4–6 Astros vs. Twins (Sep 6–Star Wars Night) Sep 18–20 Astros vs. Athletics Sep 21–23 Astros vs. Angels (Sep 26–Hispanic Heritage Street Fest) Sep 25–27 Astros vs. Rangers (Sep 27–Fan Appreciation Day) For schedule info and tickets, call or visit website.

Minute Maid Park, 501 Crawford. 877.927.8767. astros.com HOUSTON DYNAMO Sep 12 Dynamo vs. Real Salt Lake (Hispanic Heritage Night) Sep 23 Dynamo vs. Sporting Kansas City Sep 26 Dynamo vs. Colorado Rapids (Breast Cancer Awareness Night) Oct 18 Dynamo vs. Seattle Sounders (Fan Appreciation Night) For schedule info and tickets, call or visit website.

BBVA Compass Stadium, 2200 Texas.

713.276.GOAL. houstondynamo.com HOUSTON ROCKETS For schedule info and tickets, call or visit website.

Toyota Center, 1510 Polk. 713.758.7200 rockets.com

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LIVE IT UP in the heart of

THE CITY

YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS DOWNTOWN. Whether you’re grocery shopping at downtown’s favorite foodie paradise or getting in a run along Buffalo Bayou before work, life’s necessities are all just blocks away.

PHOENICIA SPECIALTY FOODS

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