CULTURE CLASH Galveston - Jan./Feb. 2023

CULTURE CLASH

Live Like a Local

LETTER FROM PUBLISHER:

The funny thing about being a Galvestonian is that you are never fully immersed. Just when you think you know every back alley and secret spot, you are met with a new business or obscure hobbyist. Daydreams turn into actual happenings and friend groups evolve into committees for change. This island has offered my family and me so much. We have shed blood, sweat, and tears on and for Galveston because we love island life and the connection it brings. Nothing beats living on a sand bar somewhere outside of Texas.

The Culture Clash crew has searched far and wide to bring you the inside scoop on what makes Galveston so special. These pages are full of tips for what to do, where to go, and how to avoid tourist traps. We know there is no way to possibly list each and every intricacy but we hope we have gotten close. Whether you are navigating the streets, the beaches, or the social scene, you now have a few pro tips to help you live like a local. Regardless of how you personally like to spend your time, we understand each experience is unique and equally valid. If we missed something, feel free to let us know!

But most of all we hope you read, enjoy, and share.

Write us an email or shoot us a comment any time online: CultureClashGalveston.com CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com

Janese Maricelli Publisher

ON THE COVER: “Maceo Wall” by Maricelli Photography. Culture Clashers jump for joy at the pure excitment for island life. Being a Galvestonian offers a unique and eclectic experience for all who to choose to call this sand bar home.

*This magazine is NOT printed on recycled paper or with soy-based inks YET! But we are working on it. Help us get there, advertise or sponsor us! E-mail for more details CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com.

Galveston Local Pro Tips

BY LESLIE WHAYLEN LONG TIME RESIDENT

TRAFFIC AND CITY TRANSPORTATION ISLAND WEATHER

Avenue P and Avenue O are inner city highways and if you pace yourself correctly (30 mph exactly), you can get where you need in go in under 10 minutes.

Teach your children how to use the trolleys. Kids ride free.

Don’t give away your secret parking spots in the downtown Strand district.

Taking the free car ferry across to Bolivar is the best way to see dolphins. Park in the lot, and walk on. It’s much faster than waiting in the car line.

Avoid bicycling near trolley tracks as your tire could get stuck.

Use the seawall to travel across when the island is flooding from heavy rain or high tides.

Our Gulf of Mexico gets calm and clear in September and October when the summer tourists leave, take advantage.

The salt air tears up anything and everything, especially metal.

When purchasing a home, ask if it flooded in Ike or Harvey, or floods after heavy rain event days or during unusually high tides.

PARKS & RECREATION

Kempner Park and Lindale Park have shade and are dog friendly. Lindale has more mosquitoes.

The city’s recreation centers have affordable memberships and kids are free. The view outside the gym at McGuire Dent is the Gulf of Mexico.

Go to the park just over San Luis Pass on Monday when it’s closed.

The best place to view the start of the Harvest Moon Regatta is from the Ferris wheel on Pleasure Pier.

Walk the loops at Lafitte’s Cove Nature Preserve and at the ArtistBoat property.

Explore the extreme east end of the island with world war relics.

Go to the beach for full moon risings.

Go shark tooth hunting when it’s cloudy or when sunny, in the water. - Lance Pawlik

NEIGHBORHOOD JEWELS

Penny’s BarBQue, ShyKatz, Los Lazos, Henry’s, Allen’s Kitchen (go early).

A lot of island restaurants are closed on Mondays.

Local gas stations often sell homemade, yummy food. My neighborhood one has the world’s best boudain balls.

You hardly get mosquitoes or flies if you live a block or two from the seawall. The ocean breeze keeps them away.

Once in a while, you may encounter a business that has a “locals’ rate.” Ask.

The inlet just east of Sunny Beach (8 Mile Road).

Fishing holes: Campeche Cove neighborhood lake, the canal just east of Moody Gardens, Pelican Island.

The island’s airport park offers some of the best views our island has for sunsets, and Cherry Hill on the far east end for moon risings.

FESTIVALS & HOLIDAYS

PLANTS, FINE ARTS, & LITERATURE

Volunteer at school gardens or Seeding Galveston to learn what plants and when to grow/ harvest.

Plant NICE (Natives Instead of Colorful Exotics).

The annual Dia de los Muertos festival, La Izquierda festival, and Save The Locals music concert series are community-driven.

Juneteenth began with Galveston.

Ball High School will take all of your Mardi Gras beads.

Fat Tuesday is the favored Mardi Gras parade for locals.

Best neighborhoods for trick-ortreating: Cedar Lawn, Colony Park, and Campeche Cove.

Dewberries and mulberries, small berries found growing on the island, can be foraged and make delicious pies.

1894 Grand Opera House and ETC

Art Walk is cool. This event happens every six weeks, you can bring your own beverage of choice and meet-up with lot of friends or make new ones.

Rosenberg Library and their librarians are an asset/resource to each of us.

Pro Tips

BY @AESTHETICALLY_GALVESTON AKA BROOKE STEVENSON

Know how toGalvestonnavigatewithout taking Broadway and Seawall!

Know how toGalvestonnavigatewithout taking Broadway and Sea Wall.

Learning Galveston history to have a deep appreciation for the island is important (ex. homes,touring historic visiting local museums, reading books about the island, etc.).

Learning Galveston history to have a deep appreciation for the island touring historic(ex.homes, visiting local museums, reading books about the island, etc.)

Don’t just shop local, but get to know the business owners. This allows you to get to know the people in the community you are supporting with your dollar.

Not just shopping local, but getting to know the business owners who own the stores. Allows you to get to know people in the community you are supporting with your dollar.

Learn to appreciate local art and be able to differentiate certain artists’ work throughout the city (Gabriel Prusmack vs. Derek Anderson)

Appreciating local art and being able to differentiate certain artists’ work throughout the city (AKA Gabriel Prusmack maybe find a different artist)

Keeping extra towels in the car for beachunexpected days or keeping sand off your seat.

Keep extra towels in the car for beachunexpected days or keeping sand off your seat.

Visit areentrancesbeachthat not common for local tourists (East Beach 1C or Pointe West)

Visiting entrancesbeach that are not common for local tourists (East Beach 1C or Pointe West)

Be prepared for rain or hurricane weather (know where flooding occurs, when to move your car to higher ground, emergency hurricane kit, keep a pair rain boots)

Being prepared for rain or hurricane weather (know where flooding occurs, when to move your car to higher ground, hurricaneemergency kit)

Discover which restaurants have quality food for their prices vs. high price toursity food.

Discovering which restaurants have quality food for their prices vs. high price toursity food.

Plan your weekends around City Events. Prepare for events by buying tickets early and knowing where to park. Know when to leave town if certain big events are too loud, crowded, or rowdy for your liking.

Planning your weekends around City Events. Prepare for events by buying tickets early and knowing where to park. Or knowing when to leave town if certain big events are too loud, crowded, or rowdy for your liking.

Galveston’s Beginner Guide New to the Scene

By Nellie Cornett

The Economy

Galveton is home to double poverty levels. There are a few “old money” families that still rule the island.

Strange relationship between the people of mass wealth and the poor exsist and this is a potentially problematic dynamic because no relationships are forged, just an enabling cycle of give and take.

There is a high percentage of locals with service industry jobs which can lead to a culture of high levels of drunkenness, alcoholism being a pretty major problem here. Be warned.

Dating

The benefit of everyone knowing each other is that you can ask around to vett a new dating prospect. People will pretty much shoot strait with you about what they know.

It is extremely common for people to date the same person. You will have to get over that. People don’t even catch feelings about this as it is normal here (this type of thing is 100% unheard of and looked down on in somewhere like Houston).

Dating is egregious. It seems the only way to date someone here is to find someone who is “new” and snatch them up.  Some people survive the dating scene by staying on the down low and are promiscuous in those circles, or only date people in other cities to avoid the drama swirls. Some people, and it’s surprising, choose to be long term vocel’s (voluntarily celibate) which is an intense but actually very common choice.

The Social Class

There is perhaps more “crazy” people living in Galveston because; a) no one truly reasonable would willingly live in a place on the path of inevitable hurricane destruction, or b) people who are running away dead end at the most southern point of Interstate 45 so we must get a higher level of law runners.

It would seem everyone has such a high level of relationship overlap, where each person has multiple things that connect them together (for example; I went to high school with him, dated his sister, his son is my boss, his uncle ran over my cat when I was 4, we’re on the same pickleball team, our sons went to jail onetime etc etc etc).

There can be a high level of cliquishness that has A LOT OF PEOPLE feeling left out, for their entire lives living here, not really sure what that’s about.

People are pretty open and chatty and friendly. The community in general is fairly liberal and tolerant of people. I have my ideas about why, but this is only speculation.

People in Galveston handle gossip differently than in other cities. The saavy locals tend to more readily not listen to gossip or participate in gossip. They let their personal interactions with people hold a higher priority.  This is in fact a survival trait in my opinion, because social conflict has dire and potentially permanent consequences. This can add to the tendency for long term residents to “disappear into the woodwork” because sometimes the only way to survive and navigate treacherous social waters is to lay low.

EXPERIENCING GALVESTON

Pro Tips Eat

BY @GALVESTON_HOTSPOTS AKA MEG HEMMATI & MEL SOUTHARD

AS A LOCAL INSTEAD OF VISITING AS A TOURIST CHANGES YOU. Or, at least, it did for us. We’ve been friends for several years and both previously lived in Houston for about 10 years after college. While working remotely in Houston during COVID and staring at screens all day long, we realized we needed a change of scenery. Galveston was the answer. It’s hard not to fall in love with the good vibes, deep-rooted history, and aweinspiring island. This was the place where we wanted to start building a family with our husbands.

We wanted to share the magic of what we had discovered on the island with our friends, family, and fellow Texans. So, @Galveston_HotSpots, was created. Our Instagram account focuses on local shops, food and drink spots, and beach + remote work living. We love supporting local businesses, meeting members of this incredible Galveston community, and highlighting anything from trending places to traditional, historical sites. Although there are endless options of places to showcase, let’s dive in to 10 of our go-to spots.

THE GARDEN THAI CUISINE

AT-A-GLANCE: One of the most difficult adjustments to moving from Houston to Galveston was the lack of Thai food. We had about 5 GREAT Thai options on rotation in Houston so when we heard we were getting a Thai food restaurant we were ecstatic! So much so that when their grand opening was delayed, they got multiple Facebook messages from us. Once it opened (and first in line), we were very impressed with the dishes and fantastic quality of food. The Garden Thai has all the staples as well as unique specials that rotate.

WHEN TO VISIT: amazing lunch specials, cute patio for when the weather is nice, date night, girls night, very family friendly.

OUR FAVORITE DISHES: Thai tea, Som Tum, Pad Se-Eew, and Panang curry.

TRATTORIA LAVIGNA

AT-A-GLANCE: Founded by Sicilians, Trattoria LaVigna offers authentic Italian cuisine that rivals the highestrated Italian cuisine in Houston. They have a flawless blend of Galveston and Sicilian flavor, fresh pasta homemade daily, and their dishes range from Chicken Cacciatore to Osso Buco. Even the harshest critics can’t be haters here!

WHEN TO VISIT: Date night, parents in town visit, friend’s celebration, whythe-hell-not for a weekday lunch, just got a promotion at work, passed a big test, post workout; really… any reason is a good reason to visit this little taste of Italy.

OUR MOST ORDERED ENTREES: Tagliatelle alla Bolognese, Veal Marsala, Beef Tortellini, and Shrimp Scampi.

DARLENE’S SHRIMP SHACK

AT-A-GLANCE: When it comes to food that Galveston does well, shrimp is no exception. It is plentiful and so many restaurants on the island do it perfectly, but Darlene’s is one of the best! They provide a unique experience making it stand out above the rest. First, the shrimp is always fresh since it’s caught daily, and they cook it to order. You can choose from many flavors including coconut and parmesan garlic. There are picnic tables overlooking the bay so you can grab some drinks and turn it into a day-date!

ACCOMMODATIONS: go when the weather is nice since it is all outdoor seating, BYOB, food truck.

OUR FAVORITES: Garlic

SIP

GRAND GALVEZ, THE FOUNDER’S BAR

AT-A-GLANCE: The Grand Galvez needs no introduction as a historic beachfront hotel, but if you’ve never been or recently visited, it’s worth a trip! It’s been impeccably renovated recently with beautiful walkways, intricate décor, stunning chandeliers and their Founder’s Bar is ultra-lux. We pre-gamed here (that’s still a thing right?) before hitting the Culture Clash 5th anniversary party since we were all dolled up and felt like we were in the Great Gatsby.

VIBE: Refined, romantic, and classy but you can still be casual.

TOP RECOMMENDATIONS: 1900 storm cocktail, espresso martini, or prosecco. Cheers!

VIDA AGAVE

AT-A-GLANCE: With the largest selection of mezcal and tequila on the island, constant happy hour cocktail specials, and a lively atmosphere, this is a guaranteed fun time for all! You can see the passion in their craft cocktail menu with an inspiration from Mexico. Not to mention all the instagrammable photo-op spots throughout the place...of course, this one would make our first list.

SPECIAL EVENTS: Salsa dance lessons, Latin night, and big-game watch parties.

MUST-TRY: Paloma, La Italiana margarita, or agave flight ¡Salud!

WATCH THE SUNRISE OR SUNSET AND ENJOY THE SALTY AIR

One of the main reasons why we moved here was to experience the sea life. Especially since we work from home and are on backto-back Zoom meetings all day, getting outside is a top priority for our wellbeing. So, it’s important that we make visiting the beach a must on a regular basis even if it’s just for a few minutes (and ideally with a cup of coffee from a local shop). Seeing how the water changes drastically day to day sunrise or sunset reset, grounding. you’re a worker, schedule occasional 1:1 meetings while you’re taking walk on the beach - it’s a game changer!

DoGOLF CART RIDE THROUGH THE CHARMING EAST END HISTORIC DISTRICT

One of the most unique things about living on the island is the ability to get around via golf cart. From the months of FebruaryNovember, this is our main form of transportation! There is nothing like taking a cruise to your favorite restaurant or going for a ride down the seawall after work. However, one of our favorite places to cruise around is in the east end. We absolutely love the architecture and charm the neighborhood brings.

FUNNY STORY: When Mel and her husband came to visit Meg and her husband, a cruise around the island helped seal the deal for them to move to Galveston. And, they got introduced to a local realtor mid-cruise.

CONNECT AND SHOP AT GALVESTON’S OWN FARMERS MARKET.

Galveston Farmers Market is a cherished Sunday tradition. Open from 9a-1p (Oct-May) and 9a-12p (June-Sept), it’s a great way to start off your Sunday morning! Not only do they have a wide variety of vendors, but they’re a non-profit that gives back to the community. Plus, they have awesome events for the entire family with live music. Can’t get any better than that!

VENDOR SPOTLIGHT: BZ Honey, Smash and Squeeze, Grow4Health and Food of Life.

Photo courtesy of @Galveston_HotSpots

Hidden Gems

Mel’sChoice

LUPITA’S TEXMEX RESTAURANT

A good indicator of a top notch TexMex restaurant is when it feels like home (as someone who grew up in Laredo) and there’s damn good salsa to start. Going to Lupita’s brings a sense of calm and it’s as though their restaurant gives you a big giant hug. They’re open for breakfast and lunch, located on 45th St. While you’re there, don’t forget to try their fresh tortillas and enchiladas verdes!

Meg’ s C h oice

CAFE CANELA

If you are looking for authentic Mexican food, look no further! Café Canela was closed for a while because they recently moved from their location on the seawall to a spot right off 61st and man did we miss it! You won’t find your typical tex-mex dishes here but don’t let that deter you from coming. They have a killer birria special Thursday-Saturday and their homemade chips and salsas are some of the best I’ve ever had (I’m originally from San Antonio so I am a tough critic). They are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and they have specials every weekend. If you do make it in for breakfast – try the Café De Olla, you won’t regret it!

Thanks for making us feel like we were always meant to be here in Galveston, TX. We’d love to meet you. Follow us on Instagram at @galveston_hotspots and share your photos/videos by using the hashtag #galvestonhotspots.

THE ROSENBERG LIBRARY

BY JANAE PULLIAM

GALVESTON HAS A LIBRARY?

It sure does! In fact, it’s the oldest, continuously operating library in Texas. Located near downtown at 2310 Sealy, you may have seen the green-tiled roof or the statue of its founder and namesake, Henry Rosenberg, to the east. While many know the building for its historic reputation, there’s nothing stuffy about this library – if you’re a fan of the new-meets-old aesthetic, grabbing the newest books and movies, and making new friends, this is the place to be!

LIBRARY CARDS ARE THE BEST CARDS TO HAVE.

Library cards are a musthave for locals. Rosenberg Library cards are free and provide access to every book, movie, and digital resource we have, at no cost to you. With it you can check out the latest Marvel film, listen to the Hamilton soundtrack, or read the newest #BookTok recommendations. We are also fine-free, so say goodbye to late fees! Whatever you’re looking for, we can help you find it. Find out more by contacting us or visiting Rosenberg-Library. org/librarycards.

Photos courtesy of The Rosenberg Library

MEET YOUR NEIGHBORS AT OUR PROGRAMS!

The Library is a great place to connect with those who share your interests. Find your niche at one of our many free programs for adults. Be a part of book clubs, trivia nights, D&D campaigns, and the yearly Galveston Reads “One Community, One Book” event. Teens have their own after-school counterparts, as well as highly popular after-hours events. For caregivers and children, our Children’s Department is second to none! Enjoy Storytimes, Baby Talk, crafts and activities throughout the week and so much more throughout the year, from the Summer Reading Program to Breakfast with Santa. Find all events and their descriptions on our calendar at Rosenberg-Library.org/events.

YOUR ONE STOP PRINT AND COMPUTER SHOP.

Nothing is more stressful than your printer or computer breaking down. Don’t worry! Our third floor computer lab has everything you need to finish the job. Whether you have a library card or not, all visitors have free access to computers and professional software from Microsoft Office to the Adobe Creative Suite. At nominal fees, you can print school assignments, posters, even 3D printed figurines! We can even help you sign emailed forms and scan or fax them wherever they need to go. No matter the need, our computer lab staff is ready to guide you.

HAVE QUESTIONS? WE HAVE ANSWERS.

Our adult reference staff is better than Google. They assist in finding bus stops, downloading apps, tracking down tax forms, and of course, suggesting your next favorite read. If you need help, they can lead you in the right direction. “LOOKING

“IF

Try a new hobby or tackle your goals with our free digital resources. Access eBooks, audiobooks, language courses, genealogy research, tutoring help, jobseeking resources, and newspapers. Stream free music and movies from any device with Hoopla or Kanopy, or try some continuing education courses on Udemy. The best part is that you can access all of these resources anywhere with an internet connection.

“PERSONALLY, I’VE ENJOYED TAKING COURSES ON HOW TO PLAY THE GUITAR AND HOW TO USE MY DIGITAL CAMERA ALL FROM THE COMFORT OF MY HOME.”

- JESÚS MOYA, ADULT SERVICES MANAGER

Photos courtesy of The Rosenberg Library

Graphics courtesy of Vecteezy

SEE ART AND HISTORY CLOSE UP!

From cannon balls to tiny trolley models, the second floor houses permanent and rotating displays of historic items from the Rosenberg Library Museum. For art aficionados, check out the local award-winning pieces from the McGivney Collection.

Also, don’t miss The Great Storm Of 1900, the newest exhibit in the Harris Gallery on the fourth floor that displays photos from the Storm alongside firsthand accounts from survivors.

If you want a deeper dive into Galveston’s history, visit the Galveston & Texas History Center on the fourth floor. Millions of documents, photographs, maps, and more are available to help visitors from casual researchers to scholars learn more about Galveston’s rich and diverse history.

Rosenberg Library is located at 2310 Sealy, Galveston, TX. Contact us at 409.763.8854 or Rosenberg-library.org.

Turtles About Town is a community art project that highlights the City of Galveston and the conservation efforts of Turtle Island Restoration Network to protect endangered sea turtles on the upper Texas coast. Turtle lovers of all ages have the opportunity to see 50 colorful Kemp’s ridley sea turtle statues that have been installed around the island since 2018. Businesses, individuals and organizations graciously sponsor the turtle statues while local artists are commissioned to give each one personality and Download at seaturtles.org/turtles. Be sure to tag Turtle Island Restoration Network in your images (@TIRN-Gulf on Facebook and @TIRN.Gulf on Instagram) and tag #TurtlesAboutTown!

Being A Pro islander Means COMMUNITY

BY TONIA MARTINEZ

PRESENTED THROUGH A PARTNERSHIP WITH THE FUTURE IS US WHICH EXISTS TO FIGHT FOR GALVESTON YOUTH THROUGH COMMUNITY VOICE SO FUTURE GENERATIONS CAN MEET THEIR FULL POTENTIAL.

A way I believe to be a pro islander is to be involved with the community. By getting involved with the community I mean supporting a small business or finding out about community events that happen throughout the town. A good way to get involved with the community is to start doing poetry. On the island, some organizations focused on poetry are Coast to Soul and Universe Poetry. If you are young or have any young children interested in poetry there is one program for children called Iconoclast.

But what is poetry? According to Google, the definition of poetry is “literary work in which special intensity is given to the expression of feelings and ideas by the use of distinctive style and rhythm; poems collectively or as a genre of literature.”

Recently I interviewed Torrina Harris, who is a professional poet in Galveston and I asked her a few questions such as what she thought poetry was. And her response was “Poetry is any kind of expression of self that can be tied to language, a written poem or a spoken poem that has never been written down. Or any form of expression coming from a human experience that can be conveyed through language is what makes something a poem or poetry. There are a lot of spaces, especially

academic spaces that try to do gatekeeping and there are a lot of people who feel they have a right to say what is and what is not poetry. I feel like poetry is a lot more fluid than that and I feel that scares people because it’s so powerful.” So anyone could be a poet because poetry is just expressing oneself.

The next question I asked was “When did you start writing poetry?” She stated she started writing in the fourth grade because it helps one’s mental health and it’s a safe space that is created for one to feel safe. Writing poetry can convey how you think and feel.

In summary, poetry is a great way to get connected with the community to express one’s mental health, in a non-judgmental way. And in the end, if you want to start trying out poetry a way you can get better is by knowing how you want your audience to feel when listening to or reading your poetry. Also be confident since it’s your poetry. Maybe try going to an open mic night just to get a feel of things.

The final question I asked was, “If one wanted to become a poet, what are the steps to take?” She responded, “One can start getting more familiar with poetry first such as reading poems and finding poets on Youtube. And trying to read a new poem every day which helps to stay connected.”

Social Capital Torrina Harris, Phylicia French, Tamara, 2022 – Lupe Mendez, Houston.

Photo courtesy of The Future is Us

Coolture

CULTURE CLASH MAGAZINE CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF PRINT.

A big thanks goes out to all of those who came out to support and show love at our Culture Clash Epic Bash Five on Nov 18th. If you missed it, we hope you will save the date for 2023.

A special thanks to our photographer and partner in crime, Scott Edwards and Life Captures Photography!

Featured

Artist: MATHEW HARTNETT AND THE GUMBO JAM

MATTHEW HARTNETT IS AN AWARD-WINNING TROMBONIST AND HORN ARRANGER FOR MS. LAURYN HILL, DAVE CHAPELLE’S JUKE JOINT, CHERYL PEPSII RILEY, TALIB KWELI AND MORE. He is also the founder and band leader of The Gumbo Jam. The Gumbo Jam was born in New York in 2015 with the intention of being a training ground for musicians to share, explore and learn. As Matthew Hartnett released a solo album Southern Comfort, the band began to evolve into The Gumbo Allstars and toured internationally with Hartnett.

Since touring as a band, the group has changed its name to The Gumbo Jam, naming itself after the jam sessions that started the whole journey. Musically, The Gumbo Jam’s origins are in jazz, but adds modern styles such as Hip-Hop & RnB. This Urban Contemporary fusion sound is now what the band leans into heavily. Elaborate solos, poetry and singing all flavor the pot of this amazing musical gumbo.

CATCH THEM LIVE FEB 21 at DTO (page 23)

LOCALS LOVE OUR OCEANS

THE GALVESTON PARK BOARD PROUDLY PRESENTS WASHED ASHORE.

WASHED ASHORE IS AIMED AT EDUCATING THE PUBLIC ABOUT THE HAZARDS OF PLASTIC POLLUTION IN THE WORLD’S WATERWAYS.

Washed Ashore’s huge, awe-inspiring sculptures are constructed entirely of plastic collected from beaches and designed to demonstrate the scale of plastic pollution found in our oceans and waterways. The creatures are beautiful, whimsical, and shocking

all at once. Now through March 5th, islanders can view 20-plus sculptures throughout Galveston.

This island-wide scavenger hunt allows the public to engage with art while also educating spectators on marine debris. Washed Ashore’s volunteers have gathered over 60,000 pounds of debris via beach clean-ups and created sculptures from the debris designed to inspire change. The

plastic pollution problem does not come solely from careless people throwing waste into the ocean, the majority of trash comes from inland sources and the coast.

All are encouraged to photograph the sculptures and tag images on social media for a chance to win fabulous prizes, including a night’s stay at one of our many awesome hotels. Find out more at www.visitgalveston.com/ washed-ashore.

INSTAGRAM HASHTAG SWEEPSTAKES #WashedAshoreGTX

TAG PHOTOS & WIN!

JAN: 1ST PRIZE: Onenight stay at The Tremont House and VIP attraction Tickets, 2ND PRIZE: Vip Attraction Passes for 2, 3RD PRIZE: Galveston Swag Bag

FEB: 1ST PRIZE: One-night stay at San Luis with breakfast for 2 and VIP attraction tickets, 2ND PRIZE: Vip Attraction Passes for 2, 3RD PRIZE: Galveston Swag Bag

TAKE THE WASHED ASHORE CHALLENGE

Download the VisitGalveston app and check in at nine or more locations to win some Galveston Island swag. Once you’ve completed the challenge, pick up your gift from the Visitor Information Center at 2228 Mechanic St, Suite 101.

LOCATIONS

Grace, Humpback Whale TailSeawolf Park

Octavia, Giant Pacific OctopusSaengerfest Park

Annie, AnemoneVisitor Information Center

Jelly Bloom - Galveston Arts Center

Stanley, Sturgeon - Bryan Museum

Brody, Adelie PenguinRailroad Museum

Finn, Mako Shark - Tremont Hotel

Noah & Sunny, FishThe Grand 1894 Opera House

Pinky, FishGalveston Children’s Museum

Sea of Debris wall hangingRosenberg Library

Rosa, Bald Eagle - Pier 21

Priscilla: Parrotfish - Royal Caribbean

Gumdrop Jelly Reef - Grand Galvez

Edward, Leatherback Sea TurtlePleasure Pier

Flash, Marlin - Rainforest Café

Giacometti, River OtterMoody Gardens

Greta, Great White SharkMoody Gardens Aquarium

Sylvia, Silvertip SharkArtist Boat Heritage Preserve

Flip Flop Fish - Dellanera RV Park

Seamore, Pot-Bellied SeahorseDellanera RV Park

Jan. - Feb. 2023

Calendar of Events

WASHED ASHORE: Art to Save The Sea

Jan pulse Feb

Now - March 5th | Anytime

Throughout Galveston

An island-wide art scavenger hunt of 20+ art pieces made of discarded plastics and marine debris. See these works on display throughout Galveston. More at visitgalveston.com/washed-ashore.

CUSTOM TOP HAT EVENT

Sat. Jan. 14th | 5pm -8pm

Clay Cup Studio 2219 Postoffice St, Galveston Create a custom Mardi Gras Top Hat complete with all the trimming. Sign up at ClayCupStudios.com $50 per person

ARTWALK

Sat. Jan. 14th | 6pm -9pm

Throughout Downtown Galveston

Presented every 6-8 weeks in partnership with downtown galleries, artist studios, nonprofits, and local businesses, ArtWalk takes place inside existing art spaces. Free and open to everyone.

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Email Us. CultureClashGalveston@gmail.com

GALVESTON MARDI GRAS

February 10th – 21st Parades and parties throughout the island. Get the schedule and event line-up at mardigrasgalveston.com Seawall and 25th St parades are free Downtown admission starts at $26

PHAT TUESDAY PARTY

Tue. Feb. 21st | 6:30pm -10pm

Daiquiri Time Out 2701 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550

Come party with the Gumbo Jam, Culture Clash and DTO as we celebrate Fat Tuesday with live music and creole food

SUSAN HICKMAN & MICHAEL BOWEN

Sun. Feb 26th | 2pm – 5pm

Albatross Bar 815 21st St, Galveston, TX, Live music every Sunday. No cover.

ISLAND IDLE SEASON 6

Sun. Feb 26th | 8pm - 11pm

23rd Street Station Piano Bar 1706 23rd St, Galveston, TX

Singing auditions are open now! Come show your stuff and be crowned Island Idle.

drink up

JAZZ DAIQ

DAIQUIRI TIME OUT 2701 MARKET ST

FROZEN + SOUVENIR CUP Cruzan Aged Rum, Tonka Bean, Lime, Coffee, Cacao

HIKE FOR HOPE

BY TERRI SUDDUTH

THE AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION’S GALVESTON HIKE FOR HOPE TOOK PLACE ON MARCH 26,2022 AT MENARD PARK.

I guess you could say this event is my “baby.” It took me awhile to get this organization to Galveston and as the event chair I had so many mixed emotions and expectations.  One of my biggest struggles was putting myself out there and allowing my life and my story to be so transparent. I wasn’t used to being so vulnerable but I quickly got past that. I lost my mom to suicide and want to use my voice to help other’s who have suffered the same loss. This is why bringing AFSP to Galveston was so important to me.

I definitely couldn’t do this without the help of my amazing Co-Chair and friend Stephanie Waltman. She grew up in Galveston, has many connections to the community and a huge passion for mental health awareness. She pours her

heart into this organization while balancing a full time job and family life that includes being a mommy to two young daughters. Stephanie definitely keeps me grounded and is exactly what I need to remind me to stay focused. She’s a great advocate and uses her own personal struggles to reach others. We make a great team! Our AFSP nickname has become The Dynamic Duo which is also the name of our fundraising team. Together we do community outreach and are now working on planning our second Hike for Hope set for March 25, 2023.

Our first event had nearly 600 people in attendance, many local vendors, non profit vendors, music, food trucks, and even a kids area. We want people to know this is more than just a 5K. It’s a great opportunity for reflection and connection. We will have a memorial area, opening ceremony and want to make sure that your loved one is remembered.

My mom will always be the reason I do this but after connecting with so many people within the community who have lost loved ones to suicide or who have even struggled with their own attempts, this walk is for them. We’d love for people to sign up and join us next March.

GET INVOLVED

COFFEE CUPS. Plastic clamshells. Carryout containers. People use and discard these items daily, with nary a thought about the impact of their actions. Yet the impact is enormous. Disposable foodware generates significant and visible waste and pollution. In addition to mounting evidence of its toxicity to human health, the process of cleaning up and disposing of this trash costs municipalities and taxpayers more than a billion dollars each year, and the costs of disposables to society are likely much, much greater.

Perpetual, in conjunction with Turtle Island Restoration (TIRN) are working toward the solution here in Galveston. Led by a team with a collective 20 years of experience in the reuse space, Perpetual has the know-how to create a world where ‘disposable’ items have been replaced by reusable ones, with citywide systems in place to facilitate reuse.

Starting with foodware, and eventually moving on to other disposables, Perpetual provides the expertise to design and implement successful reuse systems that are replicable, adaptable, scalable, and efficient. Such systems bring social, health, economic, and environmental benefits to all.

Perpetual and TIRN held a meeting late 2022 to discuss the potential to bring a reusable foodware program to Galveston that would be informed by a community-led design process. Reusable foodware programs for take-out food and beverages have the potential to be better for the environment than single-use plastics, create good local jobs, be economically sustainable over time, help Galveston manage waste generation and collection, and be cost competitive with disposables for local businesses.

“Perpetual believes Galveston would be an ideal place for a city-wide reusable foodware system. It would bring a range of benefits for the local community and environment and it provides Galveston with an opportunity to demonstrate leadership on reducing single-use plastic waste,” said Ellie Moss, Executive Director of Perpetual.

TIRN’s Joanie Steinhaus says, “This is a 3-year process and we are in the very preliminary phases. We are moving quickly though and are on track to major success with support from business owners and community members.”

Live like a local and get involved in your community’s growth and evolution. Look for the next meeting coming in late January or early Febuary. Check the Turtle Island Restoration Network for more details. Tell your friends and get involved!

people of GALVESTON

Local’s Pro Tips

By: Zoe Monacy

NORIXA PEREZ-ANDUJAR 7-year Galveston resident

Where the best food is: Go to the underground restaurants, that’s where you’ll get the best food and experience. El Jefe has the best birria tacos on the island.

ANDY TIRPAK

Long-time resident

Pro Tip: Don’t cross the hump. (If you have to ask, you just don’t get it.)

DANITZA ROJAS 3-year Galveston resident

Support local high school: As a Galveston local, I feel that everyone should know about the many programs at Ball High school and the many events and concerts that they host. Everyone should go support the local high schoolers doing some great work!

RORY HINTON BOI

Caution around currents: The currents on the beach are very dangerous and unpredictable. Make sure to keep an eye out for your kids and pay attention because anything can happen and it always happens in an instant when it’s too late. Stay aware!

JERRI BUTLER

BOI

Beware: Every local and new local should be aware, keep their pets inside the house or behind their fence since coyotes roam more, and locals should be more careful during dark.

MICHAEL MERRITTE BOI

Galveston’s rich history: Sooooo glad you asked! I could pull out a long scroll! At 68 years young, being a BOI, having grown up through segregation, and being in the school district for so long, locals should know the rich history of Galveston. As an African American coming through the school system and experiencing segregation, I look back on my experience with wow! The Emancipation Proclamation, when people like me were set free from slavery, it is important to our history. The auction blocks were right on Harborside! In a nutshell, the history of Galveston is rich. When they merged Central High school, and Ball High school, they merged black and white. I’ve lived through a lot of that.