The SCENE Magazine - December 2019 - Back to Front

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THESCENE

— > LOCAL MUSIC

BACK & BIGGER THAN EVER!

4th Annual SUPPORT LOCAL MUSIC Awards Show Returns December 28 to SCOUT BAR

Diamante

Thursday, Dec. 12 SCOUT BAR

By sarah Piña

It’s that time of year again! Voting is now open for the best in local music, and the awards show filled with the most talented in the area returns in December to Scout bar.

Support Local music (SLm), is a recording studio, music production, live sound and lights productions, as well as a music and arts foundation. It’s also the host of what will now be the 4th Annual Support Local music Awards Show, which has become a way to showcase the best of the best while also honoring area musicians for their craft. And historically, the evergrowing annual event also started with a local Texas artist, one who had a vision for supporting local music on another level.

“I was signed to a distribution deal with Southwest Wholesale, then RnD Distributors. I toured around Texas for a few years and primarily worked with Dopehouse Records opening for SPm, baby bash and others. We were also on the Lowrider magazine tour when it came through Texas,” said Don Tino, the original founder of SLm, whose life also as an artist in Texas inspired the awards show. “I got the idea from noticing the lack of a Houston music and Arts Industry night, and with my years in the business I thought I'd be able to put a night together. I went back to school, graduated from University of Houston-Clear Lake with a degree in business management, and began working on making SLm a fullfledged Label, recording studio, and film company.” The vision then began to shape into a reality.

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Bert Wills

Wednesday, Dec. 18 KATIE’S BAR

Hamilton Loomis Thursday, Dec. 19

JACKIE’S BRICKHOUSE

Sick Duck

Saturday, Dec. 21 CABO

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THESCENE

The Hunger

Saturday, Dec. 21 SCOUT BAR

— > LOCAL MUSIC

Swing through Kemah for the Holidays! José Ortega Plays Monkey Bar in december

By sarah Piña

Tony Vega

Saturday, Dec. 21 KATIE’S BAR

The bay Area is fortunate to have patio weather practically all year ’round — which makes it especially nice when looking for a way to get away from the holiday hustle and bustle in various waterside restaurants and bars. One great way to do just that will be to swing through Kemah’s own monkey bar, which will has drink specials all week long, and live music on the patio each weekend, weather permitting. monkey bar will play host to a variety of fun shows throughout December, including guitarist and vocalist José Ortega on Friday, December 13. A self-taught performer from the time he was a teenager, Ortega plays regularly in the area and enjoys turning each show into a party.

“I really am self-taught, I played a lot when I was a teenager, practicing watching video tutorials online. I didn’t really take it seriously until I was in my early 20s,” said Ortega, who also plays in a wedding band called Intensity out of Dallas. With a wide spectrum of styles, he can be found playing everything from Chris Stapleton to Weezer, along with his own original music — a soulful, acoustic sound that is perhaps loosely reminiscent of a blend of Jason mraz, Ed Sheeran, and Adam Levine, with smart lyrics, smooth vocals, but a style that is definitively all his own.

The Spazmatics Friday, Dec. 27 SCOUT BAR

Dreamsicles

Saturday, Dec. 28 T-BONE TOMS

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“I’m currently recording and having my upcoming music produced by Alchemy, along with a single I’m releasing in late January called ‘I Hate That I Love You.’ There will also be a music video in the works to go along with it,” said Ortega, whose music—including his album Uranium (2018) is currently streamed on platforms like Spotify.

Along with great live music like Ortega’s on the weekends, monkey bar patrons can enjoy great drink specials all week long! Happy hour is from noon to 7 p.m. monday through Friday, with $1 off wells and $3 domestic pints (happy hour prices all day on monday!). The rest of the week, from 7 p.m. to midnight, Texas Tuesdays features $1 off Texas craft pints and liquors, while Whisky Wednesday offers $1 off Crown Royal, Jameson and import bottles. Swing through on Thirsty Thursdays for $1 off big Ass beers, Fireball and Jaeger – and don’t forget Sunday Funday! monkey around all day with $5 bloody marys, micheladas, mind Erasers, and zipperheads, along with $3 Lonestar! And when Ortega hits the stage in December, be prepared for a party! “I really love playing monkey bar, because usually some friends of mine will also join me and we’ll end up jamming. It’s very inclusive, it’s not just a show for an audience, it’s with the audience, and we’ll all be partying together!” Ortega said.

So swing through any day of the week for great times with friends, and make sure to stop by for live music on the weekends like Friday, December 13, when José Ortega brings his show to monkey bar in Kemah, a fun getaway where everyone can monkey around during the holidays!

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Ringing in 2020

Mambo Jazz Kings Tuesday, Dec. 31

JACKIE’S BRICKHOUSE

InDaSkies, Indiginis & more Tuesday, Dec. 31 SCOUT BAR

Sundogs

Tuesday, Dec. 31

SOUTH SHORE HARBOUR RESORT

Sparky Parker

Tuesday, Dec. 31 KATIE’S BAR

The Ultimate New Year’s Eve Guide!

As 2019 comes to an end, local area hotspots are offering a variety of ways to ring in the New Year. From calm and casual to classy and crazy, there are a lot of options for New Year’s Eve celebrations in the bay Area. Here’s the ultimate guide to help plan an unforgettable evening to welcome in 2020. We love our readers, so please remember to drink responsibly! Happy New Year to you and yours from The SCENE magazine. See ya next year! Cheers!

scotty’s Pub on the Bay (3202 Marina Bay drive, League City): A four-course seated dinner prepared by Chef & Owner Scott Sexton will be served in two separate seatings. The meal will consist of choice of salad, appetizer, entree and dessert. Seating at 6 p.m. includes dinner & glass of Champagne. Seating at 8 p.m. includes dinner, glass of Champagne and reserves the table for the rest of the night. Live music during dinner. DJ Dirty D will rock the house from 10 p.m. to close. Complimentary Party Favors & Free Champagne Toast at midnight. No Cover to party. Reservations required for both seatings. Call 281-339-7474 or visit: scottyspubhouston.com/spotb-events/ for more details.

Monkey Bar (605 6th street, Kemah): Hang out at the monkey bar and ring in the New Year!

T-Bone Tom’s (707 hwy. 146, Kemah): Join the New Year's bash in Tom's backyard! Starts at 8 p.m. with DJ George. Partake in games, drink specials, balloon drop, party favors, a Champagne toast and more! Never a cover charge! Cock-eyed seagull (1010 e NAsA Pkwy, Webster): Celebrate with friends new and old. Champagne at midnight!

Katie’s (315 Grand Ave., Bacliff): New Year’s Eve Celebration with live music with Sparky Parker! $10 cover includes food, party favors & Champagne!

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Crazy Alan's swamp shack (310 Texas Ave., Kemah): Enjoy Kemah, but avoid the traffic at this cozy family friendly restaurant. Crazy Alan's is serving their reg-

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ular menu including live Louisiana Crawfish! Great view of the Kemah boardwalk fireworks without the hustle and bustle. (Quick in and out if you want.) Fireworks at 10 p.m.

skallywag suds and Grub (600 6th st., Kemah): Ring in the New Year at Skallywag in Kemah! DJ, champagne toast at midnight, food and drink specials, and more! No cover.

Main 101 (101 e. Main street, La Porte): Wine, dine and dance the night away with live music from Cindy Thomas. Enjoy a featured á la carte menu and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight along with black-eyed peas and cornbread. Reservations recommended: 281-470-8484.

south shore harbour resort (2500 s. shore Blvd, League City): Ring in the ‘20s New Year’s Eve Celebration in the Crystal ballroom with dinner, dancing and live music by The Sundogs. This roaring ‘20s themed party includes a dinner buffet, open bar, photo booth and balloon drop for $135 per person. Room rates starting at $99. Reservations are required: 281-3341000 Ext. 2002.

Noah’s Ark (4438 Boulevard street, Bacliff): New Year’s Eve Dinner includes prime rib dinner for $21.99, offered from 5 to 10 p.m. (or until it’s gone). Dinner includes 12-ounce prime rib, twice-baked potato, asparagus, salad or coleslaw and bread. Avoid the traffic at this great waterfront venue! Reservations encouraged: 281339-2895. - Continued on Page 40


NeW YeAr’s eve PArTY Guide: From Opposite Page

Jackie’s Brickhouse (1053 Marina Bay drive, Kemah): Roaring ‘20s New Year’s Eve Party. Live music with The mambo Jazz Kings! $100 per table reservation (1 to 4 people) includes bottle of champagne, meat & cheese plate, and party favors for everyone at the table! $20 cover at the door; includes Champagne toast & party favors. Reservations: 832-864-2459. Cabo (2513 NAsA Parkway, seabrook): Roaring ‘20s New Year’s Eve party with prohibition-style cocktails. Dance the night away with live music and DJ from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. Complimentary Champagne toast at midnight. Table reservations by phone: 291532-2691 or fill out form on website: www.caboclearlake.com. No reservation, no problem. No cover at the door. Kemah Boardwalk (215 Kipp Ave., Kemah): Ring in the New Year with family, fun and fireworks! Free to the public. Fireworks show at 10pm.

scout Bar (18307 egret Bay Blvd.): Ring in the new year with some positive vibes as popular reggae acts Indaskies, Indiginis, The Philosophers and Alvin & The Slickpunks will perform live. Doors open at 8pm with only a $10 cover and free champagne toast at midnight with a cash & prizes balloon drop at midnight.

Opus Ocean Grille (1510 Marina Bay dr., Building #124, Clear Lake shores): Located in the heart of the Watergate marina, this airy waterfront venue is serving New Year’s Eve dinner exclusively from a special four-course menu: Appetizer choices (broiled jumbo lump crab cake or fried calamari tossed with a sweet & spicy Asian sauce), choice of house or Caesar salad, main course choices

(filet mignon or red snapper bienville paired with an 8-ounce lobster tail) and dessert will be a chocolate mousse served in a Ghirardelli chocolate ring with white chocolate dipping sauce. Price is $75 per person. Seatings will be from 5 to 10 p.m. Reservations required: 281-334-0006. (bar opens at 4 p.m. No reservations needed for drinks.)

Opus Bistro & steakhouse (2500 south shore Blvd., League City): Enjoy a romantic New Year’s Eve Dinner in an elegant setting overlooking the marina at South Shore Harbour Resort. Serving exclusively from a special four-course menu with choices for 1st course (broiled maryland-style jumbo lump crab cake or fried calamari), 2nd course (house or Caesar salad), main course (filet mignon topped with cream sauce or red snapper bienville, both served with an 8-ounce lobster tail) and the final course will be a chocolate mousse served in a Ghirardelli chocolate ring. Price per person is $75. Dinner served until 10 p.m. Reservations required: 281-334-5225. (bar opens at 4 p.m. No reservations needed for drinks.)

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Dan’s Pizza Wings ‘N’ Beer Deck now open in Kemah

By John ennis

At the age of 14, Dan “The Pizza man” D’Ambrosio exaggerated his age on a job application, started in the pizza business as a dishwasher, and within a year he had his hands “in the dough” and knew he would one day run his own pizza shop.

New, third location expands dan’s Pizza’s delivery reach to Kemah, seabrook, League City, Bacliff & beyond

Roughly 23 years later, D’Ambrosio and his dedicated team recently opened their third location, Dan’s Pizza Wings ’N’ beer Deck, at 800 bradford in a historic (circa 1905) Kemah building, bringing the Dan’s Pizza brand to Galveston Country and spreading their popular delivery service reach to communities of fans in Seabrook, Kemah, South Shore Harbour, bacliff, El Lago, Taylor Lake Village and beyond that previously lived outside the existing Dan’s Pizza delivery zones. “The Kemah location gives us an opportunity to bring pizza to a new area as our newest delivery zone backs up to where our previous delivery reach ended,” D’Ambrosio explained. “We are known as the Delivery Kings of the South. We make the best pizzas in Houston and are known for our delivery, making it how you want it, getting it out hot and bringing quality to your doorstep. We wanted to expand our delivery area down toward the water. And that goes for delivery of the entire menu. We have all the options whether you just want a pizza, some wings, a salad. We can also customize orders. maybe you have someone with a gluten allergy, or need vegan cheese or a certain style of crust, like a cauliflower crust for a Keto diet or even a crustless bowl. We are here to bridge the gap and make everyone at the table feel welcome when you call Dan’s Pizza.”

And while the Kemah location has force multiplied the overall Dan’s Pizza delivery and pick up range, it is also a family- and pet-friendly dine-in destination in its own right featuring an elevated outdoor deck and bar amongst the trees. It’s located just a block from Galveston bay and along the outskirts of the Kemah Lighthouse Entertainment District behind T-bone Tom’s.

“We are that destination spot before you go out and bar hop,” D’Ambrosio explained. “Or if you’re taking the kids down to the boardwalk, you can come by Dan’s and get a quality meal and great service at a good price, and then go on with the rest of your plans. We also have nine taps of local Galveston- and Houston-based craft beer as we have always tried to support the breweries within 30 to 50 miles of our pizzerias. We’re also known for having root beer for the kids.” - Continued on Page 34

Dan’s Pizza Co. (The Parlor) 15148 HWY 3. • Webster 281-480-9700

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Dan’s Pizza In The Mont

12373 Scarsdale Blvd #C • Houston 281-369-9000

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Dan’s Pizza Wings ’N’ Beer Deck 800 Bradford • Kemah 832-551-3267


PASSION OF THE PIE Dan “The Pizza man” D’Ambrosio preaches a personal “Passion Of The Pie” to his staff and stays true to a deep commitment that he calls “The Three C’s: Community, Caring and Consistency.”

“I bleed sauce because it all comes from the heart,” D’Ambrosio, who was born in New York but has lived in Houston most his life, explained. “It is the Passion Of The Pie, and you have to stand by it! There is a reason for our quality, and why it tastes so good. It requires love and character. I teach it to everyone that works for me all the way down to the dishwashers when they first start. Put your heart behind it, and treat it like you are taking care of family. If not, pardon my French, get out of the way. We don’t need you under this roof if you don’t put the proper character and care behind what you are doing. because it gets down into the flavor and into the taste. It really does matter!” D’Ambrosio is quick to point out the pizza business is one of the hardest and most competitive businesses to be in, and without a mission and deep commitment that everyone buys into, you aren’t going to be successful.

“There are more than 2,230 pizzerias in Houston, and we stand in probably the Top 5, I believe – definitely Top 10,” Dan said. “And that is honorable because our people believe. If you don’t have a backbone of people who believe in the product and care, then you have no team and no structure.” Dan’s Pizza Wings ’N’ beer Deck in Kemah General manager Courtney Thiery knows that commitment well.

“We never compromise the quality of pizza,” Thiery explained. “Customer satisfaction is the upmost importance, and we make sure the quality is the way we want before we let it leave the kitchen. Not only is there no skimping on toppings, but all of our toppings are premium and come from a reputable source. All of our dough is made in house daily and many of the recipes go back to Dan’s great, great grandmother.”

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SCENE HAPPY HOUR GUIDE how long have you been a bartender + how long at scotty's Pub On The Bay? I’ve been bartending for the better part of 10 years, and I've been at Scotty’s Pub for 4 months.

Where: 601 5th St. • Kemah When: 4 to 7pm Mon. - Fri. What: $2 Domestic Drafts; $3 Wells; $4 Dos XX'S Drafts; $5 Tiki Wheat Drafts -------------------------

Where: 605 6th St., Suite C, Kemah When: Mon.-Fri. Noon to 7pm What: $1 off Wells, $3 Dom. Pints --------------------------

Where: 650 FM 517 (Dickinson) When: Monday - Friday 3-6pm What: $1.99 Domestic Draft Pints; $2.99 Premium Draft Pints; $2.99 House Wine & Appetizers --------------------------

Where: 500 Baybrook Mall (at the entrance to the Mall Food Court) When/What: Monday through Thursday Noon to 4pm: $3 Mimosas; $4 House Wine; $6 Long Islands & Shop A Holics

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FEATURED BARTENDER: FEATURED BARTENDER:

What do you love about working at scotty's Pub On The Bay? I love the neighborhood feel, and the tight-knit bar family. Top 3 drinks you recommend to customers at scotty's Pub On The Bay? Whiskey, whiskey, and more whiskey. Whiskey is a passion of mine. I love sharing my knowledge and getting people to try new things! do you have a signature drink? my favorite drink, and what I’m known for is the old fashioned. Scotty’s has an awesome whiskey selection, so I have the ability to make lots of whiskey-based cocktails.

RYAN from SCOTTY’S PUB ON THE BAY (3202 MARINA BAY DR, LEAGUE CITY)

Are there any promotions you’re you're excited about? I’m very excited about our new Wednesday happy hour “old fashioned” game night. We will be encouraging people to bring any kind of card games or board games to play while sipping on different types of old fashioneds that we will be featuring.

What do you do when not at work? / hobbies? When I'm not at home with my fiancé and our 4-year old, you can usually find me at a metal show.

What is your favorite thing about december? The holiday stress turns me into kind of a “Grinch,” but seeing how much my son loves this times of year makes it all worth it. Favorite thing about the Bay Area? I’ve grown up here my whole life. I couldn't imagine not living by the water. Great food and community is a plus. Best tip you ever got: I had the privilege of serving James Harden at a previous job. I don't want to say too much, but the tip I received for bringing him a glass of water and three shots of 1942, I'll never forget.

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Where: 20801 Gulf Freeway, Webster When: Monday Friday 5 - 7pm What: $3 Draft Beers, $4 Frozen Drinks, $5 Glass of house select smallbatch Red or White Wine. Publisher's Note: These “Happy Hour” wines are small-batch, boutique wines, not readily available at other locations or on retail shelves. Visit Cut Foil to check out the difference! --------------------------

Houston Location

SCENE HAPPY HOUR GUIDE

Where: 4438 Boulevard What & When: All Day Mon.Thurs.: $3 Wells, 50¢ off Calls, 75¢ off Premiums; Sat. 7am4pm & Sun. All Day: $3 Bloody Marys, Mimosas or Screwdrivers; Mon.-Thurs.:1/2-Price Well Drinks While Raining at Noah’s! Parrots Nest Happy Hour: Mon.-Thurs. 3-6 p.m. 2-for-1 Appetizers. ------------------------

Where: 10943 Scarsdale Blvd. When: Every day 4-8pm What: $2.50 Domestic Beer & Well Drinks. $3 Wines. Fireball always $4. Ask about daily specials.

South Shore Location

Where: 3202 Marina Bay Dr. F When: Every day 4-7pm What: $2.75 Domestic Beer & Well Drinks. $3 Wines. Fireball always $4. Ask about daily specials. --------------------------

Where: 600 6th Street, Kemah When: Mon-Thurs. 11am-7pm Friday 11am - 9pm What: $5 Premium Wells, $3 Longnecks, $4 Fireballs --------------------------

Where: 901 E NASA Pkwy, Webster When: Mon. - Fri. (11am – 7pm) What: $2.75 Domestic Bottles; $3.50 Imports & $3.25 Michelob Ultra

Where: 605A 6th Street, Kemah When: Mon.-Fri., 11am to 7pm What: $5 Premium Wells $5 House Wine By The Glass $4.50 All Crafts (13 taps) ------------------------

Where: 406 Texas Ave. (Kemah) When: Mon. - Fri. 3-6pm; Where: 310 Texas Ave, Kemah & What: $2.99 Margaritas, $3.50 1330 Bay Area Blvd, Friendswood Wells; Draft Specials include $2 Pint When: Mon.-Fri. 3-6 p.m. Bud Light ($10 Pitcher); $2.25 What: HALF OFF all drinks & Shiner Pint ($10.50 Pitcher); $2.75 HALF OFF all appetizers (exclud- Dos XX Pint ($11.50 Pitcher); $3.50 ing sampler platters) Dome Faux’m Pint ($11.50 Pitcher); -----------------------$3.75 St. Arnold Pint ($11.25 Where: 4624 Pitcher); $4.25 Tiki Wheat Pint Nasa Rd 1, ($12.75 Pitcher). Sunday Funday: Seabrook $3 Bloody Marys & Mimosas All Day When: 11am-----------------------7pm, daily What: Ritas and Draft Beer ------------------------

Where: 1010B E. NASA Pkwy. @ Egret Bay, Webster When & What: Monday - Friday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., $2 Domestics, $4.25 Calls, $3 Wells (except Tuesdays, Wells are $1.50!!)

Where: 707 Hwy. 146 When: Mon.-Fri. 5 to 6:30p.m. What: $1 Dom Draft; $6 pitcher and $3 1/2 pitcher; $1 off all ritas, $2.49 Vegas Shrimp Cocktail; $5.99 Fish or Shrimp Tacos; $2.49 Fried Pickles

Where: 6555 South Shore Blvd. When: Mon.-Fri. 11am - 7pm & Sat. 11am - 6 pm What: Drink Specials ------------------------

Where: 315 Grand Ave., Bacliff When: Tues - Fri 11am-7pm What: Drink specials + Drink Specials: Tues-$3.50 Margarita; Wed-$3.50 American Honey & Thurs-$3.50-Fireball

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Seen by The SCENE:

Hangar Bash @ Lone Star Flight Museum

Featured Bartender

Continued From Page 37

What do you love about Bartending? I love building new relationships with people. I have built life long friendships through working in this industry. Who inspires you? / What motivates you? Of course my family, providing for them will always be number one. beyond that I love Scotty's Pub, and I want to continue to make this bar the best it can be.

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Top 3 dishes you recommend to customers at scotty's Pub On The Bay? my favorite dish at Scotty's would have to be the Tater Tachos. (Think loaded nachos, but with tater tots instead of chips!) The Korean bbQ tacos are also a must. Scott is always trying new things in the kitchen, make sure to check out the chalk board behind the bar for his latest creation.


Dan’s Pizza Wings ‘N’ Beer Deck: From Page 39 To say the opening of this Kemah location was long awaited would be an understatement as the project gained a lot of attention and excitement on social media ever since Dan first took possession of this spot.

“There was a lot of red tape from the City for having a vision but not the authority to make it happen,” D’Ambrosio explained. “We put in big industrial, high-volume ovens on the second story and had to structurally support those. We also had to upgrade the plumbing and electrical to bring that historic building up to modern-day code.”

As a matter of fact, the ovens at the Kemah store are larger with a higher capacity of those in Dan’s other two locations, which are both known for producing a high delivery volume to match the quality.

“Our Kemah location is a destination with the outdoor deck and bar, but also a delivery mecca for our vision going forward with the different neighborhoods that haven’t had access to our delivery before.” D’Ambrosio said. “We even get pizzas down to the boats! If you are stuck on the water in a sailboat or yacht, we have a plan to get a quality gourmet Dan’s Pizza to you also. We have a pizza delivery boat we are going to wrap in pepperoni. We are going to make deliveries by boat happen.” D’Ambrosio is also excited about another new development in the history of Dan’s Pizza, specifically because of the new huge pizza ovens in Kemah.

“We are known for big pies and are already tied for the ‘biggest Pizza In Houston’ with our 30-inch Dan-o-saur,” an amused D’Ambrosio explained. “but in Kemah we are going to do a 40-inch megla-Dan pizza. It will be the biggest pizza in Houston, and we already have the first few reserved for an event at Palapa bar in Kemah. These will be so large we are going to cut slits in the kitchen doorways just to get the pizza out!”

Dan’s Pizza Wings “N” beer Deck is located at 800 bradford just east of Hwy 146. Or if you live in the Kemah, Seabrook, bacliff, East League City area, call in an order for delivery at 832-551-3267 and get Dan’s delivered to your front door.

Dan’s Pizza Co. “The Parlor”

In 2009 following Hurricane Ike, Dan “The Pizza man” D’Ambrosio took over a small, 1000-sqft, single slot corporate Pizza Inn delivery outlet at 15148 Hwy 3 and launched the Dan’s Pizza brand with a delivery outlet of his own. The rest is history!

“There were a lot of challenges when we took over that space, but we transitioned it with a lot of love and a lot of blue-collar knowledge of fixing ovens, fixing hoods, fixing ventilation, doing electrical work and even removing walls so we could get the product in and out,” D’Ambrosio said. “There were also challenges of starting with a new identity and our slogan of ‘The Way Pizza Should be.’ Who is this cocky guy coming to town saying his pizza is better than everyone else?”

but it was, and eventually expansion into a space next door with the addition of “The Parlor” which allowed for people to enjoy Dan’s Pizza onsite.

“We made a pizza hall that makes you remember going out to eat pizza,” explained Dan. “We have 20

taps with craft beer, ciders and 2 root beers. We have black and white cartoons that play between the sports and some throwback arcade games for the kids. It is a memory of building something that matters. I get guests at the parlor daily who tell me that ‘Sitting in here means so much to me because it reminds me of where I came from.’ And that is special and something you can’t buy since it has to come naturally.” ------------------------------------------------

Dan’s Pizza In The Mont

Last year, Dan “The Pizza man” D’Ambrosio jumped at the opportunity to take over a pizza joint on Scarsdale blvd. It’s a place he has enjoyed a long history with and has turned it into what is now Dan’s Pizza In The mont. A true neighborhood staple located at 12373 Scarsdale blvd. (just west of I-45 in the Sagemont area), Dan’s Pizza In The mont is unique and features 55-year-old brick ovens, flat grills and an impressive menu of gyros, subs, muffulettas, more than 10 philly cheesesteak options and the original 8.5pound heavy pie called the Pounder Pizza in addition to the impressive selection of gourmet pizzas.

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Open Mic @ Franca’s Real Italian

Loose Notes

Seasons Greetings! With the Holiday Season upon us, we hope to find you well. 2019 has been a good year on the live music front with exceptional talent as the norm. It was a busy month and I had the good fortune of having Paula helping cover the Lone Star Rally and some hot Chinatown action... We enjoyed getting to catch up with lots of you out there, and as we wind up the year, let’s run down some of what went down.

by Andy Eng

FOLLOW uP - Last month, we checked out the live music at Franca’s Real Italian Restaurant and knew a follow up was in order. As we mentioned, this place is friendly to the performing arts with its dinner theater stage. Claudio performs weekly on mondays, and if that isn’t enough, Franca’s has a great Open mic hosted by David Schwope, Toree montgomery, and Randy meadows - an enjoyable evening we caught in November. Schwope and montgomery have been often mentioned in the SCENE during my tenure. meadows is a strong talent up the road in Pasadena whom I last crossed paths with during the GbAmA IkeFest days. Together, the three have perhaps one of the broadest and strongest Open mics happening in the area these days.

most recently, Schwope has been sporting a sweet Taylor 12-String. If you’ve ever seen his 12-String Ovation, you can be sure there’s not many like those around. Also new was seeing John Kohlhauff sporting a 6-string Strat. In the new-to-the-ears department, I heard some interesting Spanish guitar work underlying classic Carole King, Jim Croce and Simon & Garfunkel. That and lots of pleasing Texas Swing, original compositions, and well-done classic covers. The open mic rules are straightforward with a signup sheet, collaborations encouraged, original compositions welcomed, young and old participants throughout the evening and a friendly staff serving up fine eats and bevvies. Franca’s with Claudio on monday and Open mic on Tuesday. Check it out! - Continued on Page 32

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Blaggards @ T-bone Toms

LOOSE NOTES: Cont. From Page 33

ON AN ON, Part i - We enter mardi Gras season this year on the live music front with blaggards (no “the”). At T-bone Tom’s to be exact... We finished mardi Gras last year with blaggards playing on our Fat Tuesday float so fitting that blaggards be our live music common link.

blaggards include Pat Devlin (frontman from Dublin), Chad Smalley (bass/vocals & Houston music Scene veteran), michael mcAloon (drummer & national gold medalist), and Wes barlow (fiddle & national music competition winner). A cool ditty of blaggard’s music is that their songs have appeared on TV and movies over the years. An accomplishment not only noteworthy but something I feel like lots of the live music we get to hear in our area is worthy of. Let’s hope in 2020 more of us gets discovered and paired with good projects.

ON AN ON, PArT 2 - There’s this cool little corner hangout in Kemah, where the live music and good times naturally happens. This location, I remember formerly as Claudio’s and Amadeus, is back with us as Ancora - A fitting name for a place for gatherings and good times, still…

We stopped by during their soft grand opening and recognized many familiar friendly faces that have made this location “their spot.” Abel Salazar and Don bonner were on a familiar stage, couples danced as they had before, the new menu looked great and the staff handled the full house with a friendly crisp smile. We Abel Salazar & Don Bonner @ Ancora will be coming

back in the days ahead, and if you haven’t heard by now, Ancora is the name.

- Continued on Page 31

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LOOSE NOTES: Continued From Page 32 seriOus sONiCs - was what we scored in November with Van Wilks at T-bone Tom’s, and the mighty Orq at Katie’s. It was like back-to-back home runs for the ears. We covered Van Wilks recently and a follow up was in order to pick up his CD “21st Century blues.” Returning with Wilks was his drummer of over 18 years, Charlie Fountain and bassist and leader of the Navigators, Galen mendlenka. Wilks says “These two our great! On stage, I’m often not sure of where I’ll be taking the music. These two give me a good foundation to spring off of.” I vividly remember Wilk’s expression of shock his first time at Tbone Tom’s when all the VIP listeners (the little ones) would take to the dance floor. He’s since grown comfortable as these tuning-forks-of-life respond to this gritty power music on the big mains - A sound I’m positive that’s not played as loud at their homes.

Mighty Orq @ Katie’s

As for his album, I interpret the title song as an integration of the various styles Wilks has mastered over his decades of award winning musicianship into a unique presentation of a new direction and would not count out someday hearing this as a movie score. “If I were a Rich man” is a soft and thoughtful composition I hope to hear live when Wilks and the band returns. Well-composed, performed, engineered and mastered – 21st-Century blues needs to be on your personal jukebox.

It’s been years since I last saw mighty Orq show but recall the first time I heard his band at Clifton’s by the Sea as if it were yesterday. Orq is one of those eclectic sonic geniuses with a sound like no other, and is the one and only Houston blues masters to headline the Scout bar stage. Why such the long wait? I’ve a multiyear running streak where I catch bands that I’ve never heard of before at Katie’s and leave the bacliff listening room going “Wow! That was good!!!” (Something I encourage everybody to try). This evening, I got to enjoy listening to Orq (along with drummer Chris Ardoin and bassist mark Riddell) along with the friendly staff from Railean Distillery & buccaneer bar, Kenny & Robyn. Kenny describe Orq’s gritty blues which has aged like a fine scotch, “rich, smooth and effortless” Robyn notices that the band truly enjoys making music. both spot on. Orq sports a rack of the most interesting axes and has a song list for each, which includes a Jimmy Page-style feedback attack, a soulful Delta blues set, a beautiful Amazing Grace, and a swampy acid rock splash. His Cigar box rig sports a 6-string pickup and produces the most sounds I’ve ever heard coming from three-string rig. The “jams” set is the band’s fun time where they leap from classic to classic, jazzy form of R&b, with everything from ppp to FFFF.

I asked Orq how he approaches his music. He shared, “It’s out there. You just gotta put in a lot of polish onto the gem, so that the light shines through” Sound good to me. I scored a copy of his new CD, “Love In a Hurricane,” a 12 song compilation recorded and mixed at Sugar Hill by Josh Applebee and mastered by Christopher Longwood. band mates on this snappy album include Jimmy Rose, barry Selen, and Terry Dry. A great piece of audio work. Grab one for your collection.

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- Continued on Page 30


Lone Star Rally

LOOSE NOTES: Continued From Page 31

rALLY TiMe! And it was to Galveston Island along with thousands of riders for one of the country's largest four-day rallies. Riders came from near and far – approximately 400,000 arrived from as far as El Paso, Tucson, Florida, Louisiana, and New York City! What?! New York City?! And yes, the consensus from everyone is always the same – they love Texas and the people in it. There was no shortage of music, food, vendors and spirits of course. Again many vendors came from near and far with great food and all the clothing, gear and leather you could imagine! With two main stages, the music flowed for four days, with one of our own Southern Rockers the zach Tate band, they kicked off Saturday Texas style, on the Sangerfest stage with some great sounds! Later we were treated to The Piedmont boys from South Carolina with some serious fiddle playing, then got into some rocking with miss Intent from Daytona! Hey, we ain’t shabby! And, of course, one of our favorite rockers, another one out of Florida, The bobby Friss band, with awesome classic Rock & Roll! Needless to say, this year was one for the record books, as riders from all over the country came to get a little salt in their blood and share their freedom and passion to RIDE! - By Paula

WOW! – Jackie’s was rockin’, and poppin’, with the funk and the boogie of the China Town band Friday night! What an energetic, talented and professional 10-piece band. Jackie’s guests were moovin’ and groovin’ to this multi-talented group of musicians and singers. They kept the dance floor full all night with 4 main vocalists/dancers, which included two female and two male singers who were super talented. Their costumes sparkled and glittered and gave you the feel of a Vegas show! Not to mention some serious ’70s platform boots! There was no break in the action as songs blended together one after the other giving the guest all the dancing they could handle! China Town @

An awesome light Jackie’s Brickhouse show filled the stage and dance floor throughout the night, and if that wasn’t exciting enough, the two very talented men on the brass, joined in on the dance floor New Orleans style with their trumpet and trombone. The band brought back the ’70s’ well-known Disco dance music as well as favorite Rock and Pop, and were sure not to leave out a little popular line dancing! This band came to put on a show and that they did! Guests couldn't get enough of this talented group and definitely danced the night away! Don't miss this group the next time around and be ready to shake, shake, shake! - By Paula

- Continued on Page 28

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SLM AWARDS: Continued From Page 44

“The first year [of SLm Awards] we had over 400 through the door and 3 stages. by the third year, attendance reached over 600, and attendees came from beyond Clear Lake — all the way from Conroe, Katy, beaumont, Stafford, and more, and really showed all of Houston supporting genres from rock, rap, country, pop, reggae, folk, EDm to Tejano, which were all present and represented,” Tino said.

And with the ever-growing presence of the show, the categories have also expanded. The many categories include everything from best Local Guitarist to best Local Spanish Artist, with several others such as best Local Host (radio or live event) and best Local Radio (show/streaming) making their debut, and are very much a coveted recognition for local performers and the many that band together to support local music all year long. Some of this year’s nominees include one of the most musically talented husband and wife teams around — DJ Noel Sanchez, aka DJ Cyde for the best Local DJ category, and his wife, Nina Sanchez, aka EV-DEE for best Local Vocalist. “It is an honor to be nominated again this year and share a stage with all this amazing local talent! What SLm does for the local community is so awesome! We appreciate and give thanks to Don Tino, and Scout bar for always supporting local music and artists! Great things happen when we support each other, one love y’all!” Cyde said.

“Houston is a melting pot of cultures, backgrounds and perspectives,” EV-DEE added. “The music and lyrics allow us to feel love, pain and my favorite... empowerment as one. It gives the people the opportunity to unite and create a bond. With the SLm nomination, it is a trophy in itself. The nomination to me means we have already accomplished the goal of achieving that unity as a community,” she said.

Also feeling the local love is rising star big Yogi, who just recently opened for Houston rap legend Paul Wall at Scout bar this past September.

“I feel truly blessed to be a nominee for best Local Rapper in the city I love. Thank you and much love to everyone who has been supporting me,” he said.

This year’s show stands to be the best and biggest one to date, with performances from many local artists slated to take place all evening long, including Asleep in the Wake, Ojos Rojos, King baby with D.J. Cyde, and many, many more!

Nominations were submitted through the month of November via SLm’s website at https://slm.buzz, where voting, as well as featured artists, videos, and their songs, is now also currently open for all categories. Winners will be announced at the awards show, which will take place the evening of Friday, December 28 at Scout bar, and hosted by Khris Harding, who has also been nominated for best Local Announcer/Host. The show is FREE, open to all ages, and doors open at 7 p.m.

So come on out, enjoy the best the area has to offer, and Support Local music!

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Rings Of Saturn @ Scout Bar

LOOSE NOTES: Continued From Page 30

TOur sTOP CLeAr LAKe - Which would be Rings of Saturn and their Gidem Album Release Tour. Thomas Wilson does a great job booking national acts as the band was wrapping up their hot tour of North American, not leaving anything behind. musically, this hot band from ATX has a killer recipe, blending Alien Core, shredding death metal, growling vocals, and the return of mosh pit action. The band sounded great taking time between songs to check tuning while filling the space playing curious tapes of gothic classic piano. It’s been a while since I’ve seen such an energetic frenzy at Scout bar, and honestly, it was refreshing, seeing the body surfers ride and the moshers taking breaks after taking their hits, only to go back for more. CABO’s suNdAY FuNdAY - Was the weekly live music show on the waterfront, and we caught the 2019 season finale with Chris Hardy paired with Jerimiah marichalar (Twisted Tides) and a guest appearance from Greg Wappler. With the heat of summer officially over and the Cabo patio decks were getting a good cleaning from a busy year – and so inside the show went.

Chris Hardy & Friends @ Cabo

I’ve become accustomed to the weekend evening crowd at Cabo so much that the music this Sunday afternoon show was a treat – the heavy hardwood with this indoor stage was reverbing perfectly. With only two prior occurrences of the Hardy/marichalar playing together under their belts, this combination is stage-ready in my book. Their groove is good…

Hardy is a demonstrated musician on a continuing relentless pursuit of the music. This afternoon, heard him lay down Duane Allman riffs on an acoustic rendition of Layla which was new to my ears. I’ve no doubt with the New Year, we’ll be seeing and hearing something new from Hardy ahead. I’ve a suspicion that deep down inside, he’s a natural Parrothead in the making. marichalar is creative energy I encourage music listeners to give an ear to. We’ve covered him before at monkey bar and Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack - Among many clever interpretations we heard that afternoon, the soul version of michael Jackson’s billie Jean was a most surprising muse. When I asked him how he so effortlessly creates on the fly, he passed along his early days with the Greg Wappler band when GW would pass along word to the band while on stage, “I’ve got an idea in E. Pay attention – you’ll get it!!!” Great training indeed... Speaking of Wappler, the oil patch has been keeping this 12-string minstrel busy the past couple of years but, he will be in our area over the holidays. Perhaps we’ll get to spot him do a song our two while he’s in town.

iT’s A WrAP - And as we bring 2019 to an end, may we take stock with family and friends, share some good times at any one of our many happening places on The SCENE as we set our eyes on the upcoming New Year. If there is a special Auld Lang Syne in your heart, may you cheer good memories and keep their flame alive in your heart. Thank you all for taking time to share your stories. Well done to a great 2019, and cheers to a better 2020!!!

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SEEN by The SCENE:

BAHB&T’S AFTER PARTY @ SSHR

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• DECEmbER 2019


THE LIST: Local Producers of Brew, Spirits & Wine

Visit online @ www.theSCENEmagazine.com

1

11 10

Brigadoon Brewery #2

16

7

17

5041 Spencer Hwy #703 Pasadena, Texas 77505

1

9

6

Symposium Brewpub

14

8

BREWPUB

13

5

5

310 19th, Galveston, Texas

BREWPUB

15 12 3 13 2

4

Beerfoot Beach Bar

2

2816 Avenue R 1/2, Galveston, TX 77550

BREWPUB

Galveston Bay Beer Co.

12900 FM 3436 Dickinson, Texas

6

Brews Brothers

2404 Strand Galveston, TX 77550

3

BREWPUB

4

8423 Stewart Rd. Galveston, TX 77554

BREWPUB

Fetching Lab Brewery

221 6th St N, Texas City (Tap House) 1578 C Rd 423, Alvin, Texas

5

BREWPUB

BREWERY

BREWPUB

2709 Dickinson Ave (Tap Room) 1825 Dickinson Ave (Brewery) Dickinson, TX 77539

Haak Vineyards

15

BREWPUB

Vallensons Brewing Gordon Street Tavern

11

114 N Gordon St, Alvin, Texas

BREWPUB

Saloon Door Brewing

4081 Rice Drier Rd Pearland, TX 77581

BREWPUB

9

Devil and the Deep

2425 Postoffice St Galveston, Texas 77550

BREWPUB

DECEmbER 2019 •

6310 Avenue T Santa Fe, TX 77510

WINERY

Clear Creek Winery 16

12

105 Magellan Cir, Webster, Texas

BREWPUB

DISTILLERY

1231 E Broadway St Pearland, Texas

Texas Beer Refinery

8

341 5th Street San Leon, Texas

Bakfish Brewing 10

7

Galveston Island Brewing

14

Railean Distillery & Buccaneer Bar

709 Harris Ave. Kemah, TX 77565

WINERY

Duo Winery & Cider Co. 17

2150-A Dickinson Ave., Dickinson, TX 77539

WINERY

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Bakkhus Taverna

Mamacita’s

T-bone Tom’s

Skallywag

Scout Bar

Where To EAT & DRINK

Luna’s Mexican

Cut Foil

Monkey Bar

Katie’s Bar

Edible

1. Aspens................817 Clear Lake Rd. (Clear Lake Shores) 2. Bakfish Brewing Co. ..............1231 Broadway (Pearland) 3a. Antonini’s Subs and Steaks........602 6th Street (Kemah) 3b. Bakkhus Taverna Greek..............605 6th Street (Kemah) 4. Bayshore Grill & Billiards ............137 21st Street (Bacliff) 5. Bayview Duck ..............................3131 Hwy 146 (Bacliff) 6. Beers Looking At You ..........17074 Highway 3 (Webster) 7. Boldthouse Wine Pub....2234 NASA Parkway (Seabrook) 8. Boondoggles ....................4106 NASA Parkway (El Lago) 9. Buck Wild ..............1025 West NASA Parkway (Webster) 10. Cabo ............................2513 NASA Parkway (Seabrook) 11. Caps and Corks ..........500 Baybrook Mall in Food Court 12. Classic Cafe ....................2511 NASA Pkwy. (Seabrook) 13. Center Court Pizza & Brew ......3202 Marina Bay Blvd. J 14. Cut Foil Carafes & Drafts ......20801 Gulf Fwy. (Webster) 15. Chelsea Wine Bar ............4106 Nasa Pkwy # F (El Lago) 16. Chasin’ Tails ............................2402 Bay Area Boulevard 18. Cock-Eyed Seagull ......................1010B E. Nasa Road 1 19. Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack ........309 4th Street(Kemah) 20. Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack-Baybrook ..1330 Bay Area Blvd. 22. Dempsey’s Sports Pub ..20801 Gulf Freeway (Webster) 23. Dan’s Pizza Company ................................15148 Hwy 3 24. Dickinson Bar-B-Que & Steakhouse ..........2111 FM 517 25. Don Pico’s - Clear Lake ..................2110 Bay Area Blvd. 26. Don Pico’s - Pasadena ..............4940 Fairmont Parkway 27. Duo Winery & Cider Co. ................2006 Dickinson Ave 28. Easy Street Lounge ......112 N. Highway 3 (League City) 29. Esteban’s Cafe & Cantina..............402 West Main Street 31. Fatty’s ............................5735 Bayport Blvd. (Seabrook) 32. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood House ..............20760 Gulf Frwy 33. Floyd’s Cajun Seafood House ................1300 Broadway 34. Gabacho’s Mexican Grill ......................4449 NASA Rd. 1 35. Galveston Bay Beer Co. 12900 Fm 3436 Rd (Dickinson) 36. Garage Bar & Grill......1755 Hwy. 35 N Bypass Rd. (Alvin) 37. Gio’s Flying Pizza ....................................630 FM 517 Rd 38. Gordon St. Tavern....................114N. Gordon St. (Alvin) 39. Hugh & Jeff’s Car Wash & Grill ............1232 W. FM 646 40. J. Henry's Draught House ....1105 Clear Lake City Blvd. 41. Jackie’s Brickhouse ..1051 Marina Bay Drive (FM 2094) 42. Joe Lee’s Seafood Kitchen ..........1108 Marina Bay Drive

Swamp Shack Baybrook

O2 Bistro

Mediterraneo

South Belt • Pasadena • Galveston Bay • Galves

43. (Great) Kanakas Atomic Tiki Bar....601 Bradford (Kemah) 44. Katie’s ........................................315 Grand Ave. (Bacliff) 45. Las Anitas............................................4622 NASA Rd. 1 46. La Brisa - Bacliff ......................................4001 Hwy 146 47. La Brisa - League City ..........501 Wesley Drive (@ I-45) 49. Las Haciendas • NASA ......................1020 NASA Rd. 1 50. Las Haciendas • I-45 ......................12933 Gulf Freeway 51. Las Haciendas • South Shore ........2951 Marina Bay Dr. 52. Edible ..............................13914 State Hwy 3 (Webster) 53. Lone Star Grill ............................3435 Hwy 146 (Bacliff) 54. Luna’s Mexican Restaurant ......6555 South Shore Blvd. 55. Main 101 Grill & Bar ..............101 E. Main St. (La Porte) 56. Main Event ......................................1125 Magnolia Ave. 57. Marais ....................................2111 FM 517 (Dickinson) 58. Malay Malay ..........2508 Gulf Fwy S #102 (League City) 59. Mamacita’s - Clear Lake........................515 E Nasa Rd 1 60. MamaRita’s - Pasadena..............7325 Spencer Highway 61. Maribelle’s..................3136-C NASA Road 1 (Seabrook) 62. Mario’s Italian • Seabrook ......1304 Bayport (Hwy. 146) 63. Masa Sushi Fusion ..............................977 Nasa Road 1 64. Masa Sushi Sake Bar ............................1804 W. FM 646 65. Masa Sushi Japanese Restaurant ..1788 S. Friendswood Dr. 66. O2 Bistro ..............1002 Aspen Rd. (Clear Lake Shores) 67. Mediterraneo Market & Cafe ........18033 Upper Bay Rd. 87. Merlion......................................1301 4th St. (Seabrook) 68. MichiRu Sushi ......................20911 Gulf Fwy. (Webster) 69. Midnite Slice ..........................1605 Main St. (Seabrook) 70. Monkey Bar................................605 6th Street (Kemah) 71. Noah’s Ark Restaurant..............4438 Boulevard (Bacliff) 72. Opus Bistro ..........................2500 South Shore Harbour 73. Opus Ocean Grill ........1510 Marina Bay Dr., Bldg 124 74. Palapa Bar..................................608 6th Street (Kemah) 75. Pomodoro’s Cucina Italiana ........2700 Marina Bay Drive 76a. Paradise Tropical Wine ......603 Bradford Ave. (Kemah) 76b. Pizza Here ..........................609 Bradford Ave. (Kemah) 77. Preamble Lounge & Craft House ....20801 Gulf Fwy #12 78. Russo’s NY Pizzaria ........1660 W. FM 646(League City) 79. Rockey’s Piano Bar ....................18313 Egret Bay Blvd. 80. Railean Distillery ................341 5th Street (San Leon) 81. Saloon Door Brewing Co. ..............105A Magellan Circle

Dan’s Pizza

Scotty’s OTB

Tookie’s Burgers

82. Sam’s Boat ............................... 83. San Luis Resort ........................ 84. Scotty’s Pub .............................. 85. Scotty’s Pub On The Bay ........... 86. Scout Bar .................................. 88. The Backyard ......................130 89. Skallywag Suds N' Grub ............ 90. Skipper’s..................1026 FM 20 91. South Shore Harbour Resort..25 92. Star Cinema Grill ......702 Baybr 93. Sundance Grill II .................. 80 94. Stuttgarden Tavern On the Stran 95. Stuttgarden Tavern Texas City....10 43. Stuttgarden Kemah.................... 96. Thai Spice Kitchen................300 97. Thai Stellar ......................803 N 98. The Spot ........................3204 S 99. The Hop .................................... 100. Texas Roadhouse ..........18194 101. The Tree House................901 102. Time Out Sports Bar #1 ......... 103. Time Out Sports Bar #2 .......... 104. Time Out Sports Bar #3 .......... 105. Tommy’s Restaurant Oyster Ba 106. Tookie’s Burgers ....................4 107. Tookie’s Seafood..........1106 B 108. Topwater Grill ......................81 109. T-bone Tom’s .......................... 110.Tuscany Bistro..................2951 111. Union Tavern ........................... 112. Valdo’s Seafood House ........... 114. Volcano Room......................... 115. Zone 504 ................................. 116.-125. KEMAH BOARDWALK R 116. Aquarium; 117. Pizza Oven; 1 119. The Flying Dutchman; 120. Ba 121. Cadillac Bar; 122. Bubba Gump 123. Lighthouse Buffet; 124. Landr 125. Saltgrass Steakhouse

Bayshore Grill

Great Kanakas Atomic Tiki Bar


• Clear Lake ston Island Houston 102

50 26

60

55

104

84 40

23 52 100 103 111 92 11 20 96

12 10

110 51

69

Ha rbo rsid e

83

Harbo rside Broad way

Seawall Blvd.

98

The Backyard

53 71 5 46 44

71 44

94

35 Island ston Galve

517

5

80

48 108

Gulf of Mexic

Pub Level

Caps & Corks

Opus Ocean Grill

646

35 Seawol f Prkw y.

Main 101

19 116-125 106 76 89 70 3 115 74 109 43

78

27 I-45

69 87 31 107 88

41

54

95

7

66 90 1

42

75

58 78 39 57 24

MichiRu

Galveston Bay

62

93 73 72 85 91 13

61st

37

82

Clear Lake

67

86 79

47 28 28

64

34

8 112 61 15

12th St.

65

99

9 22 14 77 81 68 56

114 45

Ferr y Rd .

32

63 97 101 18

59

16

2nd

49

25

20th St.

6

36 38

105

25th

2

51st

33

Jackie’s Brickhouse

Gulf of Mexico

Cock-Eyed Seagull

Topwater Grill

Ship Channel

. lvd er B ent ce C Spa

...13101 NASA Parkway 5222 Seawall Boulevard ...10943 Scarsdale Blvd. ......3202 Marina Bay Dr. ............18307 Egret Bay 01 4th Street (Seabrook) .600 6th Street (Kemah) 094 (Clear Lake Shores) 00 South Shore Harbour rook Mall (Friendswood) 00 Mariners Dr. (Kemah) nd ........2110 The Strand 0000 Emmet Lowry Expy ...609 Bradford (Kemah) 0 W. Bay Area (Webster) ASA Parkway (Webster) eawall Blvd. (Galveston) 17886 Hwy 3 (Webster) Gulf Fwy. (Friendswood) NASA Road 1 (Webster) 11460 Fuqua (Houston) .......307 El Dorado Blvd. .4416 Fairmont Parkway ar ..2555 Bay Area Blvd. 406 Texas Ave. (Kemah) Bayport Blvd. (Seabrook) 15 Avenue O (San Leon) ..707 Hwy 146 (Kemah) Marina Bay Dr. Ste 220 .435 El Dorado Blvd # A ..........4106 NASA Pkwy. ..........4650 NASA Pkwy. ..504 Kipp Ave. (Kemah) ESTAURANT ROW 18. Red Sushi; ayside Grille; p; ry’s Seafood House;

Railean Distillery

Noah’s Ark

Gio’s Pizza

Opus Bistro

Tommy’s

Cabo

Paradise Tropical Wine

Crazy Alan’s S.S.

Mediterraneo Cafe


ATTRACTIONS

Featured Attractions 1. Space Center Houston

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

1601 NASA Parkway • 281-244-2100

spacecenter.org

2. KEMAH BOARDWALK

6. GALVESTON PLEASURE PIER

10. ELLINGTON FIELD

14. JET SURF HOUSTON

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

2501 Seawall Blvd. ....1.855.789.7437

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

3101 NASA PKWY #H ..713-538-7873

3. LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM

7. SAN JACINTO MONUMENT

11. AXE MASTERS TEXAS

15. SOUTH SHORE HARBOUR

11551 Areospace Ave..346-708-2517

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

400 Hobbs, Suite 209........281-479-2421

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

4. MOODY GARDENS

8. ARMAND BAYOU NATURE CTR.

12. BAYOU WILDLIFE ZOO

16. BIG LEAGUE DREAMS

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

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

5050 FM 517, Alvin ........281-337-6376

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

5. SCHLITTERBAHN

9. PIRATES BAY WATER PARK

13. FUNCITY SK8

17. RAILEAN DISTILLERY

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

5300 East Road (Baytown) ..281-422-1150

1500 North Texas Ave...281-332-4211

341 5th Street (San Leon). 713-545-2742


ATTRACTIONS 51 45

48

47

52

46 49 50

9

7

44 43

3

10

8 19

18 20

1

14

21

13

28

2

15

22

24

25

31

26

23

27

17

11 16 29 12

32

30

18. SYLVAN BEACH PARK on Galveston Bay in La Porte ..............281-471-5020 19. BAY FOREST GOLF COURSE 1900 South R Street (La Porte)........281-471-4653 20. PINE GULLY PARK 535 Pine Gully Rd. @ Toddville (Seabrook) ..........281-474-3286 21. OLD SEABROOK NASA Parkway @ Hwy 146 ............................281-474-3869 22. PUTT PUTT FUNHOUSE 806 NASA Parkway............................281-333-0579 23. BUTLER’S LONGHORN MUSEUM 1220 Coryell (League City) ....281-332-1393 24. CLEAR CREEK WINERY 709 Harris Ave. (Kemah)..........................281-334-8300 25. CINEMARK 18 20915 Gulf Frwy. (Webster) ................................281-332-0951 26. MAIN EVENT 125 Magnolia (Webster) ........................................281-332-4500

27. TOP GOLF 21401 Gulf Frwy. (Webster) ........................................281-657-1300 28. BAYBROOK MALL 500 Baybrook Mall Drive..............................281-488-4620 29. MAGNOLIA GREEK GOLF COURSE 1501 Bay Area Blvd...............281-557-0555 30. BEACON LAKES GOLF CLUB 801 FM 646 ..........................................281-337-1459 31. SOUTH SHORE HARBOUR CC 4300 South Shore Harbour ............281-334-0521 32. HAAK VINEYARDS & WINERY 6310 Avenue T. ..................409-925-1401

5

42

40

33

41

33-39

6

4

GALVESTON ATTRACTIONS:

HOUSTON ATTRACTIONS:

33. GALVESTON EAST BEACH 1923 Boddeker Drive . . . .409-762-EAST 34. THE GRAND 1894 OPERA HOUSE 2020 Postoffice St.409-763-7173 35. THE STRAND HISTORIC DISTRICT Galveston . . . . . . .713- 629-3700 36. MARDI GRAS MUSEUM 2309-2311 Ship’s Mechanic Row . .409-765-5930 37. MOODY MANSION MUSEUM 2618 Broadway . . . . . . . . . . . .409-762-7668 38. BISHOP'S PALACE 1402 Broadway . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .409-762-2475 39. GALVESTON RAILROAD MUSEUM 25th & Strand .409-765-5700 40. TEXAS SEAPORT MUSEUM Pier 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .409-763-1877 41. OCEAN STAR OFFSHORE MUSEUM Pier 20 . . . . .409-766-STAR 42. SEAWOLF PARK Pelican Island via Seawolf Parkway . . .409-797-5114

43. HOBBY AIRPORT 7800 Airport Boulevard . . . . . . . . . . . .713-640-3000 44. NRG STADIUM One NRG Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .832-667-1400 45. HOUSTON MEDICAL CENTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .713-791-8805 46. DOWNTOWN ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT . . . .713-658-8938 47. TOYOTA CENTER 1510 Polk Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .713-758-7200 48. GRB CONVENTION CTR 1001 Avenida de las Americas .713-853-8000 49. MINUTE MAID PARK 501 Crawford Street . . . . . . . . . .713-259-8500 50. BBVA COMPASS STADIUM 2200 Texas Avenue . . . .713-276-7500 51. DOWNTOWN HOUSTON AQUARIUM 410 Bagby .713-223-3474 52. HOUSTON ZOO 6200 Hermann Park Drive . . . . . . . . . . . .713-533-6500




Arts Calendar: From Page 20

MUSEUMS

1940 Air Terminal Museum: Hobby Airport, 713-454-1940, 1940airterminal.org. Raffle tickets on sale now for airplane. Armand Bayou Nature Center: Open Tuesday through Saturday, Sunset Cruise 6 p.m. Every Saturday breakfast on bayou 8 a.m. Ages 5 to adult, Nature Tour Third Sundays, Noon, Reservations required on events, call for reservations, 8500 bay Area blvd., 281-474-2551,abnc.org

Galveston railroad Museum: Train Rides every Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 2602 Santa Fe, Galveston, 409-765-5700, galvestonmuseum.com.

League City historical society West Bay Common Museum: Open monday to Friday. Call for group reservations, 281554-2994, 210 Kansas Avenue, League City, oneroomschoolhouse.org

Butler Longhorn Museum: Tues. through Sat. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1220 Coryell, League City, 281-332-1393. butlerlonghornmuseum.com

Ocean star: Offshore Drilling museum and Education Center, Open Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Pier 19 at Harborside Dr. & 20th St., Galveston, 409-766-7829, OceanStarOEC.com san Jacinto Monument & Museum: Open Daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., La Porte. Call 281-479-2421, sanjacinto-museum.org

space Center of houston: Current Exhibit: Above and beyond at Space Center Houston, 1601 NASA Parkway, Nassau bay, 281-224-2100, spacecenter.org. Certified Autism Center. See website for tickets

Battleship Texas, state historic site: 3255 Highway 134, La Porte, 281-4792431, tpwd.texas.gov. Temporary closed.

Bay Area Museum - Lunar rendezvous exhibit and space Memorabilia: Open Tuesday – Sunday, Clear Lake Park, 5000 NASA Parkway, Seabrook. Call 281-326-5960, lunarrendevous.org.

ARTS

cam and other exhibits, Galveston, moody Gardens, 800-582-4673, moodygardens.com,

Lone star Flight Museum: Open Tuesday through Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday noon to 5 p.m., 11551 Aerospace Avenue, Ellington Airport. Call 409-7407722. LSFm.org Moody Gardens: 24-hour animal web-

Texas City Museum: Open Tuesday to Sunday, 409 6th Street N., Texas City, 409643-5799, texas-city-tx.org/museumabout.htm

Texas seaport Museum: Opening of the Trade Routes 1853, 2100 Harborside Dr., Galveston, galvestonhistory.org

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CULTURAL ARTS CALENDAR ARTS ART

dec. 6 to 8: 46th Annual Dickens on the Strand, 2228 broadway, Galveston, 409765-7834, eventbrite.com dec. 6 to 31: Santa’s Rock n Lights, Pasadena Fairgrounds, 7902 Fairmont Pkwy., santasrocknlights.com dec. 6: Christmas Train Opening, 6 p.m., 1407 Victory Ln., Alvin, 281-388-2267 thechristmastrain.com

dec. 6 to 22: Dashing through the Snow IN Houston , Fridays and Saturdays 8 p.m.; Sundays 2:30 p.m.; Clear Creek Community Theatre, 18091 Upper bay Rd., Nassau bay. Call 281-335-5228, clearcreekcommunitytheatre.com

dec. 6 to 22: mary Poppins., Fridays & Saturdays 8 p.m.; Sundays 2:30 p.m., Harbour Playhouse, 3803 Texas 3, Dickinson. For info, call 281-337-7439, harbourtheater.com dec. 6 to 22: Doublewide Texas Christmas, Fridays & Saturdays 8 p.m.; Sundays 2:30 p.m.,4318 Allen-

dec. 6 & 7: Hometown Christmas Festival, 7 p.m. 3449 Pearland Pkwy., Pearland, 281-412-8900, pearlandparks.com

dec. 10: Freeman Needlecrafters, 10 a.m. to Noon, Clear Lake Freeman Library, 16616 Diana Lane, Houston, hcpl.net

dec. 14: Christmas in the Park, Texas Avenue Park, 5-9 p.m., 17100 N. Texas Ave., Webster, 281-332-1826, cityofwebster.com dec. 14: Christmas boat Parade, 6:30 p.m., Kemah boardwalk, 877-285-3624 to enter visit, www.clearlakearea.com dec. 15: Holiday Delights: A Lone Star Christmas – 10 a.m.

Genoa, Pasadena. For information, call 713941-1758, pasadenalittletheater.org

dec. 6 & 7: A Christmas Carol, Dec. 6 at 8 p.m.; Dec. 7 at 3 p.m.; The Grand 1894 Opera House 2020 Postoffice St., Galveston. Call 409-763-2481, thegrand.com

dec. 14 & 15: Houston ballet presents The Nutcracker. Dec. 14: Shows at 2 and 6:30 p.m. December 15: Show at 2 p.m at The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St. Galveston, 409-763-2481, thegrand.com

dec. 21: Guns of Glory, 4 to 6 p.m. bryan museum, 1315 21st St., Galveston, bryanmuseum.org

dec. 28: Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Shows at 1 and 4 p.m. The Grand 1894 Opera House, 2020 Postoffice St. Galveston, 409-763-2481, thegrand.com

dec. 6 to 14: A Nice Family Christmas, 1101 NASA Pkwy, Franca’s Italian Restaurant. Call for reservations, 281-488-2207. francasrealitalian.com

dec. 6 to 8 and dec. 13 to 15: The Nutcracker, bayou Theater, University of Houston Clear Lake, bAHb&T, www.bahbt.org

THEATRE

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PHOTOGRAPHY

dec. 11: bay Area Photo Club, 7 p.m., bay Area Unitarian Universalist Church, 17503 El Camino Real, bayareaphotoclub.org

CHILDREN’S ART Library story Times

evelyn Meador Library (Pre-K): 10:30 a.m., 2400 N. meyer, Seabrook. Storytelling by mrs. Pearson every Tuesday morning & computer classes forming, 281-474-9142, hcpl.net Freeman & Memorial Library: book babies on monday, Tuesday & Wednesdays at 10:15 a.m., Toddler Time on monday, Tuesday & Wednesday at 11:15 a.m. 16616 Diana Lane, Houston. Call 281488-1906, hcpl.net

dec. 7: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, 11 a.m. to Noon, Galveston Naval museum, 100 Seawolf Park, Galveston, 409-7703196, galvestonnavalmuseum.com

dec. 7: Polar Express Pajama Party, 9 to 11 a.m., Kemah Community Center, 800 Harris Ave., 281-334-1611, kemah.tx.gov

MUSIC

dec. 20: The browns Holiday, 8 p.m., The Grand 1894 Opera House 2020 Postoffice St. Galveston, 409-763-2481, www.thegrand.com

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BALLET

Helen hall Library: Toddler Story Time, monday 10:15 a.m., Preschool Story Time, Tuesday 10:15 a.m. & 11 a.m., Teen Advisory board (TAb), 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the month, 7 p.m., Events for Adults; Antiques Roundtable 1st monday of the month 1 p.m., Computer Classes Wednesday 10 a.m., book Discussion Club 3rd monday of the month 7 p.m., Local Authors Hour 2nd Thursday of the month 10:15 a.m., 100 W. Walker, League City, hcpl.net La Porte Library: Tuesday Story Time, 10:15 a.m., followed by baby Time 11 a.m., 600 S. broadway, La Porte. Call 281-4714022, hcpl.net rosenberg Library: Story times are offered every Wednesday at 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. for children 6 and under and their caregivers, 2310 Sealy Street, Galveston, 409763-8854 ext. 135, rosenberg-library.org

- Continued on Next Page


New Venue Alert

ARTS

Soulfreak Studio Cafe

822 Clear Lake rd. • Clear Lake shores 281-957-7987 | www.soulfreak.com

ABOuT: Soulfreak Studio Cafe is a new, local coffee shop, art studio and retail space nested just off of Hwy. 2094 at 822 Clear Lake Road along the entrance to the island community of Clear Lake Shores. The concept and design was developed by local resident and artist Amy Lyn in hopes that it would bring a unique experience to local residents and the surrounding communities. From handcrafted coffee and homemade pie to art classes and live music performances to Farmers markets, Craft Fairs and retail art for sale, Soulfreak is excited about serving the local community in a fun and unique way and the staff looks forward to creating great memories and lasting friendships.

hOurs: mon. thru Wed.:..6:30am - 7pm Thurs. thru Sat.: ..6:30am - 8pm Sunday: ....................8am - 7pm

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SEEN by The SCENE:

Photos by Andy eng & Betsey ennis

PASADENA TASTE OF THE TOWN

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John

PUBLISHER & ART DIRECTOR

John Ennis

(Co-Founder)

EDITOR & OPERATIONS OFFICER

Betsey

Betsey Ennis

(Co-Founder)

PHOTOGRAPHER / COLUMNIST

Andy Eng ART DEPARTMENT

shawn

Betsey Ennis • Joe DeFlora John Ennis • Shawn Domingues COLUMNISTS & WRITERS

Andy

Shawn Domingues • Andy Eng Kelley Dawson • Sarah Piña Twila Lindblade Peggy “Domino” Taylor John Ennis • Betsey Ennis SALES & MARKETING

John Ennis • Simone Culver ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR

sarah

Carmen Bates DIR OF

SOCIAL OUTREACH

Gracie Ennis DIR OF GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT

simone

Andrew Ennis

Published monthly by BAY

AREA MEDIA

SERVICES (BAMS) Since 2002 A Local Media Company & Creative Firm GETTING RESULTS Since 1998

Kelley

Contact us at ads@scenelive.net

SCENE / BAMS Mailing Address: PO Box 806 • Seabrook, TX 77586

Andrew

Gracie

Twila

• DECEmbER 2019

Carmen

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Phone: 281-925-7660

domino

Joe

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1002 Gemini Ave. Suite 200 ACTION LINE Houston, Texas 77058 281-925-7660


Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack: From Page 10

“We are really happy to have a location in this area to serve even more of our guests in Clear Lake. We know it’s a lot more convenient for many people as well,” said Christine Jorgensen, the marketing manager for Crazy Alan’s. besides crawfish, however, Crazy Alan’s stays true to their “swamp shack” roots and offers a variety of bayou-born dishes that are extremely popular with guests.

“Everything is fresh and made in-house. Guests love our fried and blackened alligator, which we also use in our tacos and étouffée,” she said. Smoked oysters, “dark roux” gumbo, and corn and crab bisque are also big hits, along with a new, recently-debuted “comfort food” dishes. Their new Komfort Cookin' menu offers Pot Roast, Kountry Fried Chicken, beef Stroganoff and Chicken Fried Steak with new sides such as spinach, black-eyed peas, green beans and more. Still, it’s those tasty mudbugs that continue to be the star, something that Crazy Alan’s takes a lot pride in.

“Come try the best tail in town,” Jorgensen said. “We season it with our very own Crazy Alan’s Swamp Spice. We try to be the first to have crawfish every season, and the last to have them as well!” Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack in Kemah (310 Texas Ave.) and the newest location by baybrook mall (1330 W. bay Area blvd., Friendswood) and are currently open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Visit Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack’s Facebook pages daily for their crawfish updates. Enjoying these critters is easily accessible: Hang waterside in Kemah, or head over to the newer bayou in baybrook, and have a happy crawfish Christmas!

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CLEAR LAKE - SOUTH 20. Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack 21. Tookie’s Burgers 22. Schafer’s Coastal Bar & Grille 23. Opus Ocean Grille 24. Sundance II 25. Opus Bistro & Steakhouse 26. Paradise Reef (SSHR) 27. Lighthouse Bar & Bistro

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12th St.

KEMAH BOARDWALK 10. The Aquarium 11. Red Sushi 12. Flying Dutchman 13. Cadillac Bar 14. Bubba Gump 15. Lighthouse Buffet 16. Landry’s Seafood 17. Bayside Grill 18. The Pizza Oven 19. Saltgrass

WATERFRONT DINING GUIDE

20th St.

CLEAR LAKE - NORTH 1. Luna Restaurant (Hilton) 2. Valdo’s 3. Chelsea Wine Bar 4. Boondoggles 5. Villa Capri 6. Sam’s Boat 7. BARge 295 8. Cabo 9. Pier 8 Seafood

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BACLIFF & SAN LEON 28. Noah’s Ark 29. 18th Street Pier 30. Pier 6 (Coming Soon) 31. Topwater Grill DICKINSON BAYOU 32. Marais

Visit the Mobile-Friendly Waterfront Dining Guide at www.theSCENEmagazine.com

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Crazy Drinks, Crazy Food, Crazy Fun:

It’s a Crawfish Christmas at Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack! By sarah Piña

Ever since Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack opened in Kemah almost 10 years ago, it has earned a reputation as a lively restaurant and bar with a variety of signature seafood offerings, as well as the first place each year to have fresh live crawfish, and this season is no exception! In November, Crazy Alan’s already started offering the tasty mudbugs with their signature sauces and seasonings that people from around the world come to try! That’s right, LIVE LOUISIANA CRAWFISH have arrived just in time for the holidays, and with two great locations — one near the Kemah boardwalk and the other by baybrook mall — making either location an ideal place to eat, drink, and be merry during or after the holiday hustle and bustle. Crazy Alan’s Swamp Shack, loves to bring people together, and the holidays are a great time to gather for delicious seafood, or bring your out-of-town guests who have never tried crawfish before.

“Crawfish is really a social event,” manager Laurie Holzle said. “People like to get together, sit together, drink, talk, and dance to our live music. many families will come for birthdays and other events, but this time of year is perfect for friends and family to gather for the holidays, too. And we are very kid-friendly. Kids are kids! Parents can kick back and relax and the kids can come here, be themselves and have a good time!” (Indeed! The baybrook location also offers a section with video game station ideal for the little ones!)

For the adults, there is a full bar in both locations, and each comes with unique features. Kemah has a waterfront patio and an upstairs both with excellent views of the Kemah marina (and of the Kemah fireworks at 10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.) baybrook-area diners can now enjoy everything they love about Crazy Alan’s right by the mall, in a larger, more upscale atmosphere that still stays true to the bayou vibe that the restaurant is known for. The familiar zydeco sounds, multicolored lights strewn from the ceiling, and Southern Louisiana theme in general are omnipresent, yet in a more spacious and elegant setting that includes a beautifully lit bar near the entrance (featuring a can’t-miss tank with a live caiman!), live lobster tanks, a private room for events, and bayou-esque murals and wall décor. - Continued on Page 13

CRAZY ALAN’S SWAMP SHACK - KEMAH 310 Texas Ave. • Kemah 281-334-5000 <<< Kemah Location Managers CRAZY ALAN’S SWAMP SHACK - BAYBROOK 1330 Bay Area Blvd • Friendswood 832-284-4895 Baybrook Location Managers >>> 10 |

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GINGERBREAD HOUSE at South Shore Harbour

Holiday Treat: Don't miss one of the community's favorite holiday sights! In the tradition of the late Executive Chef Roland Kyburz, South Shore Harbour Resort (2500 South Shore blvd., League City) returns an popular holiday tradition by building a legendary gingerbread house in the lobby of the South Shore Harbour Resort and Conference Center. Locals and travelers are welcome to pop into the lobby and pose for a holiday photo or just admire the craftsmanship that took several weeks to complete (one cookie at a time). breakdown: 350 pounds of gingerbread; 3000 assorted cookies; 55 pounds of egg white; 180 pounds of powdered sugar; 85 pounds of candies and 300 hours of labor Pictures with santa at South Shore Harbour Resort in the main lobby: December 6 & 7, December 13 & 14 ..................6 to 8pm in the main Lobby Breakfast with santa at South Shore Harbour Resort Saturday, December 7, ........8-10am in Paradise Reef Restaurant (bring your camera.)

STEARMAN SANTA at Lone Star Flight Museum

Santa has his flight plan and is checking it twice! Each Saturday in December (Dec. 7, 14 & 21) from 11am to 12:30pm leading up to Christmas Day, come watch Santa arrive on the ramp and taxi into the Lone Star Flight museum (11551 Aerospace Avenue, Houston). Take advantage of this photo opportunity for the whole family with Santa and the PT-17 Stearman inside the Waltrip Hangar. FREE with a general admission ticket. Children under 3 are free.


Holiday Season Guide

MAGICAL WINTER LIGHTS

returns to Gulf Greyhound Park

magical Winter Lights ÂŽ Houston is a spectacular, larger-than-life attraction with a fresh, multicultural take on the traditional holiday light show. The 52-day festival is the largest holiday lighting event in Houston, and the largest lantern festival of its kind in the U.S. The 2019 festival will

WHAT: ..................Magical Winter Lights WHEN: ..........November 15 - January 5 WHERE:................Gulf Greyhound Park 1000 FM 2004, LaMarque, TX TICKETS: www.magicalwinterlights.com feature eight Texas-sized lantern sections, carnival rides & games, acrobatic performances and more! Visit www.magicalwinterlights.com for more information.

MOODY GARDENS sheds

light on upcoming holidays

Festival of Lights returns to moody Gardens this holiday season for the 18th year continuing the coastal tradition of bringing families together on Galveston Island for lifelong memories and festive enjoyment for all ages. The holidays will commence with the twinkling of 2 million festive lights, the chill of an ice skating rink and the wonderful views glistening across Galveston bay. estival of Lights is open Nov. 16-Jan. 12, 2020. Guests can walk the one-mile trail filled with sound-enhanced lighting and animated displays themed to their favorite holiday music. Other holiday attractions include Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D, Antarctica: On The Edge 3D, Wonders of the Arctic 3D, Cirque Joyeux Dinner and Show at the moody Gardens Convention Center, the area’s only outdoor ice skating rink, 100-foot long Arctic Ice Slide, holiday movies in our mG 3D Theater and train rides this season with the spectacular views from moody Gardens Hotel. For more info, please call 800-582-4673 or visit moodygardens.org.


Holiday Season Guide

BAHB&T presents THE NUTCRACKER

Kick off your holiday season with beautiful following year. Her artistic talent and beauty has dancing and costumes, dazzling performances, been a true gift to the bay Area. The cast for and well-loved classic holiday music as the bay The Nutcracker comprises the Artist in ResiArea’s own professional ballet company, bay dence, the bAHbT Company dancers, demiArea Houston ballet & Theatre, presents the characters, and other roles that are filled by perennial favorite, The Nutcracker, at the Univer- audition. There are more than 100 people in this sity of Houston-Clear Lake’s bayou Theatre. This traditional ballet that has charmed audiences for performance is sure to please children of all ages over a century. The Nutcracker tells the beloved and bring holiday magic to you and to your holiday tale of Clara and her dream journey with family. This will be the last production with her most treasured Christmas gift, the NutbAHbT for Artist in Residence Laura massague. cracker. Performances are Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13She came to Clear Lake a guest artist for the 15. Fri. and Sat. nights are at 7:30 p.m., and production of The Sat. and Sun. matinees begin at 2 Sleeping beauty in WHAT: ............The Nutcracker, BAHB&T p.m. Tickets can be obtained online 2014 and joined WHEN: ................Dec. 6-8 & Dec. 13-15 at bahbt.org or by calling the the company the bAHbT office at 281-480-1617.

WHERE: ............UHCL's Bayou Theatre

SEEN BY THE SCENE: BAHBT’s Sugarplum Fairy Breakfast


58th Annual CHRISTMAS

BOAT LANE PARADE

bright lights and boats of all kinds will meet December 14 at 6 p.m. for the 58th Annual Christmas boat Lane Parade on Clear Lake presented by the Cities of Clear Lake Shores, Kemah, League City, Nassau bay and Seabrook and produced by the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce. The parade will line up in the Nassau bay Lagoon and South Shore Harbour marina, travel the channel past Seabrook and the Kemah boardwalk out into Galveston bay and return. These WHAT: ......Christmas Boat Lane Parade beautifully WHEN: ......Saturday, Dec. 14 (6 to 9pm) decorated WHERE:..Clear Lake & Kemah Channel sail and power boats will dazzle and entertain thousands of spectators with their brightly colored holiday lights, music and designs. Some boats will be decorated traditionally and others will look very unique. The boats will travel past spectators in viewing locations including South Shore Harbour marina, Kemah boardwalk, Nassau bay Lagoon, Clear Lake Shores and the Constellation Pointe / David Road Canal. Spending time with loved ones and enjoying these brightly decorated vessels is a great way to kick off the holiday season. Come for the weekend and enjoy the festivities and stay overnight in one of the sponsoring cities. The morning following the parade, awards will be given out at the traditional awards brunch in the ballroom of South Shore Harbour Resort. For additional information about the parade, sponsorships or an entry form for the parade, please call 281-488-7676 or e-mail the Clear Lake Area Chamber of Commerce at shari@clearlakearea.com.


THE SCENE is The ACTiON Guide TO The WATERFRONT CAPITAL OF TEXAS

A Great Place to Live, Work & Play!

DECEMBER 2019 ....Southbelt • Clear Lake • Bay Area • Galveston

SPACE CENTER HOUSTON Opens New Holiday Tradition

Galaxy Lights to be on display until Jan. 5

Guests can now embark on a unique adventure when experiencing Space Center Houston’s Galaxy Lights, presented by Reliant, a new, immersive holiday lights tradition bringing guests the most technologically advanced light display in Texas nightly through January 5.

In partnership with Reliant, Space Center Houston presents a fresh new way to explore the nonprofit science and space exploration learning center. Guests will experience LED lights, 3-D projections and interactive displays lighting up the museum and some of the rarest space artifacts in the world. “Space Center Houston’s Galaxy Lights is one of the center’s many dynamic, innovative experiences inspiring curiosity about science and technology in a new and fun way,” said William T. Harris, president and CEO, Space Center Houston. “With this unique holiday adventure, the center will continue to engage people of all ages in the thrill of discovery and exploration.”

“Galaxy Lights is the perfect place for Houstonians of all ages to celebrate the joy of the season,” said Elizabeth Killinger, president of Reliant. “Lighting up the holidays is what we do best, and we’re so thrilled to help bring this new and family-friendly holiday experience to the community.” Upon entering the center, gaze at a mesmerizing, technology-driven kinetic light show transforming the ceiling into a dance among luminous LED orbs. Discover the technology behind Galaxy Lights through hands-on learning stations that allow guests to light up uniquely shaped holiday trees and create their own design. Enjoy the NASA Tram Tour as it goes through a vibrant light tunnel.

At Rocket Park, marvel at a 35-foot-high shooting star installation among shimmering globes illustrating the planets of the Solar System, one of many great locations to take selfies (#GalaxyLights). Walk the length of the mighty 363-foot Saturn V rocket as 3-D projection mapping transforms each stage to tell the story of Space Center Houston’s mascot Commander Quest and his robot dog as they journey aboard the International Space Station. Guests can also meet and take a photo with Commander Quest every night.

Galaxy Lights has something for everyone with special events throughout the holiday season. Space Center Houston will host a 21 & Up Night with holiday-themed adult beverages on December 5 and Galaxy Lights Overnight, a family camp-in on December 7. As a Certified Autism Center, the center will also provide a Galaxy Lights experience with reduced stimulation on December 9. Galaxy Lights, presented by Reliant, is one of Space Center Houston’s many immersive, interactive experiences that inspires space enthusiasts of all ages. Tickets are $19.95 for the public and $15.95 for members. For more information about activities, hours of operation and tickets during this unique holiday adventure, visit spacecenter.org/galaxylights.

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