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BEACHSIDE RENTALS
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BOLIVAR PENINSULA •
A laid-back beach destination on the Bolivar Peninsula
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
5
O N T H E COV E R H ap py N e w Ye a r f ro m Te a m Wave s !
WAVES
10
Relationship Advice | The Free Meal Fiasco
18
Restaurant Review | A Tale Of Two Lupitas
42
Trivia | 1980s Icon Trivia
20
Restaurant Specials | January Featured Favorites
46
Focus On Fitness | Turmeric & Ginger The Dynamic Duo
22
Events | Prime Rib Wednesdays at Saltwater Grill
ADOPT | Galveston Humane Society Cats, Cats, Cats!
27
Events | Galveston Symphony 2025 2026 Season
Comedy Corner | with Bob Rohan
28
Curtain Going Up | Best Of Broadway 2025
56
Fun Facts |
30
Texas Music Profile | Anna Clarke
60
Closing A December To Remember
Restaurant Section | Find Your Favorite
34
Le
Pet Corner | Australia’s Most Dangerous Creatures
t’s M
ak
e
c o n t e n t s January 2026
January 2026
E ntertainment M agazine priceless
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Beach Bum | New Year Pick-Up Lines
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Pet Peeves | Public Bathroom Horrors
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Gardening With Holly Ross | Chamomile
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Reflections | with John and Kathy Valastro
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Trivia Answers | From Page 20
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Bunny’s Cookin’ Column | Easy, Breezy Adult Beverages
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THE CHOIR OF MAN
SAT, JAN 24 | 8 PM SUN, JAN 25 | 3 PM Direct from London’s West End, the worldwide smash hit The Choir of Man is bringing its pub party to Galveston! With rock anthems, folk ballads, tap dance, and a real working bar on stage — this is the feel-good night out you’ve been waiting for.
NEIL BERG’S 50 YEARS OF ROCK AND ROLL V SAT, JAN 31 | 8 PM
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J A N UA RY 2 0 2 6 Waves Magazine Is Published Monthly By: Waves Magazine | Mike Burke Box 3343 | Galveston , TX 77552 P: 409-789-1160 www.wavesgalveston.com Publisher | Editor Sales Director Mike Burke mburke@wavesgalveston.com 409-789-1160
Mike Burke|Publisher
BURKE’S BRIEFS January 2026 Waves On Air will be available in both video and audio formats,
Happy New Year, Wavers!
making it accessible to audiences wherever they prefer to watch or 2026 has arrived! I am offering a special toast to all of
listen.
our wonderful readers and advertisers. Let’s make 2026 Director Of Operations Tiffany Bergeron tbergeron@wavesgalveston.com
Full video episodes will stream on YouTube - Facebook - LinkedIn -
the best year yet.
Instagram - X and Twitch. Audio‑only episodes will be available on We never rest on our laurels here at Waves Magazine.
Spotify and Apple Podcasts.
We are always thinking of what we can do to make Executive Creative Director Christopher Bergeron cbergeron@wavesgalveston.com
Contributors Richard Henderson, D.V.M. J.A. Bunny Jan & Dean Chris Gonzales Tom Valliere Charlie Bresenhan Paul Hager Bob Rohan John & Kathy Valastro Holly Ross Thomas Waggoner Zach Tate Lynda Watson Shaye Henderson On the web WavesGalveston.com Facebook / WavesGalveston Subscriptions Available Waves Magazine P.O. Box 3343 | Galveston , TX 77552 P: 409-789-1160
sponsorships, cross‑promotion, and community partnerships. With that being said, we are extremely excited to
Businesses featured in the show will receive additional visibility
announce that beginning this February, we will be
through Waves Magazine’s print, digital, and social platforms.
launching Waves On Air! A Waves podcast. We will be featuring local business owners, writers, musicians, restaurant owners and chefs, artists, and more. Waves
S e e t h e Fu l l P r e s s Re l e a s e o n Pa g e 7 9
On Air will enable you to learn more about the people
ke eB M| ikP ub l isurh er
that make our beloved Galveston what it is.
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The podcast also introduces new opportunities for local business
Waves even more entertaining and informative.
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A Multimedia Experience Available Across All Major Platforms
Hosted by: Mike Burke
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
9
P
ET Corner
Pet Care Advice From Richard D. Henderson, DVM
Deadly Down Under: Australia’s Most Dangerous Creatures
While Texans are trying to avoid the cold in January, it is
summertime in Australia. Folks are out hiking the outback or heading to their beautiful beaches for some warm R&R. While Galvestonians worry about rattlesnakes on the dunes or the occasional brown recluse spider hiding in the garage, Australians have an abundance of creatures that can put you permanently down under, in the grave. We usually associate Australia with cute kangaroos and koalas, but the continent has more than their share of creatures that can kill you. Start with their deadly array of reptiles. Australia is home to eight of the ten most venomous snakes on the planet. Most notable are the eastern brown snake, tiger snake, death adder, and the inland taipan. They all make the list of the most lethal on our planet. Most Australian snakes are reclusive, preferring to hide in places that humans do not venture. One exception is the eastern brown snake, which prefers habitats where humans live. This snake frequently shows up in gardens, yards, and around buildings. If provoked, the snake can strike with lightning speed with venom that can kill a person in less than an hour. Fortunately, the locals learn early in life to identify this guy and give them a wide berth. The snakes in this part of the world carry venom that attacks the nervous system, causing severe pain, seizures, and paralysis. Surprisingly, today, there are few deaths from snakebites, and outstanding medical care is available in most parts of the country.
Eastern Brown Snake
common in parts of Australia that specially designed nets are placed in the water around some beaches to keep swimmers and the jellyfish apart. Vinegar solutions that help neutralize venom are kept at the ready on the lifeguard stands so guards can provide first aid to swimmers who are stung. The victims are then whisked off to the nearest ER for injections of a specialized antivenom. The Irukandji jellyfish is nearly invisible, the size of a fingernail with an almost clear body. They can float by the millions around some beaches and deliver a painful sting that escalates over an hour, causing cramps, vomiting, and sometimes death if not treated promptly. The elusive stonefish sits quietly camouflaged on the seabed until a swimmer steps on it. The fish’s dorsal fin can penetrate rubber-soled shoes into the skin, delivering a toxin that is among the most potent of any fish. Victims become ill immediately, and in some cases, the reaction can be fatal unless immediate medical attention is available.
Box Jellyfish
Stonefish
Moving along from creatures that slither to ones that float. Although Australia’s shores are home to the great white shark, there is a much greater danger of being taken out by some of the smallest ocean dwellers. The box jellyfish is just as deadly as it is beautiful. It has millions of tiny stinging cells in its tentacles that can deliver a toxin that can cause intense pain and cardiac arrest. It is so 10
Waves Magazine | January 2026
Australian beaches even provide the ideal habitat for a venomous predatory snail called the cone snail. It has a harpoon-like tooth that can inject a potentially fatal venom into folks brave enough to enter troubled waters. In Australia, it’s better to “Swim Smart” or be a land lubber. Back on land, we must mention the most dangerous spider on earth. Australia has that one too. The Sydney funnel-web spider is a common inhabitant of eastern Australia. Male
Cone Snail
Funnel-Web Spider
spiders are particularly active, looking for females to mate with. They are attracted to water and often fall into swimming pools while wandering. They can survive for several hours immersed in water and can deliver a bite while submerged. Fortunately, an antivenom was made available in 1981, which has dramatically reduced human mortality and morbidity from this spider’s bites. There have been no reported human deaths from funnel-web spiders since the introduction of the antivenom.
avoid messing with the critters, a negative encounter is unlikely. In the event of a wildlife disaster, Australia has highly effective antivenoms for most venomous species and world-class medical care ready to save your life. An Australian holiday should be more about sightseeing, a cold beer around the barbie, and calling all your new friends, “Mate.”
After reading this, it may seem that the Australian wildlife is out to get you, and a vacation to the outback may be your last. If you stay clear of the risky areas and
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
11
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
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ph: (713) 582-0129
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CarriageHausSales.com Waves Magazine | January 2026
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GALVESTON’S FINEST HOMES 2026 OPENS THE DOOR FOR YOU.
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Curious what your home is worth in today’s market?
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
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5
REALTOR 15
Waves Magazine | January 2026
GC announces Courtney Lamm as new Development and Foundation leader focused on students and community Galveston College recently announced the hiring of Courtney Lamm as the new executive director of Development and the Galveston College Foundation, bringing to the role more than a decade of experience in mission driven philanthropy, strategic fundraising and community engagement.
in Galveston. Her family remains her main motivation: her two daughters, one studying at the University of Houston and the other at the University of Texas at Arlington, and her husband of 30 years, who is pursuing certification to teach in the Galveston Independent School District.
Lamm joined Galveston College in December after serving in key development leadership roles at Houston Public Media and the University of Houston, where she built collaborative, high-performing teams and helped secure transformational gifts that expanded access to education across the region. Her career, rooted in marketing research, communications and brand strategy, has centered on helping organizations tell meaningful stories that connect people to purpose.
“This island has always been part of my story,” said Lamm. “Now I have the chance to give back to a community that has given so much to me. Together, we can help students, families and future leaders create their own lasting Galveston memories.”
“Throughout my career, I’ve learned that the most powerful stories are the ones that inspire change,” said Lamm. “Education has the ability to open doors, build confidence and transform families for generations. It is the great equalizer, and a shared responsibility across a community. That belief is what led me to philanthropic work, and it’s what brings me to Galveston College.” Lamm said she was drawn to Galveston College because its mission mirrors her deepest values: access, opportunity and community transformation. “Galveston College represents everything I believe about education,” said Lamm. “This institution doesn’t just prepare students for careers, it strengthens the entire region. The opportunity to help shape the next chapter of the Foundation through strategic partnerships and philanthropy felt like a natural, meaningful fit.” In her first months, Lamm plans to focus on listening, assessing and building alignment with internal and external partners. She will work closely with the GC Foundation Board, college leadership, donors, alumni and community organizations to understand current needs, identify opportunities and develop a shared vision for sustainable growth. “My priorities are to engage deeply, build trust, and create a unified strategy that 16
Waves Magazine | January 2026
Lamm encourages the community to get involved through volunteering, mentoring, scholarships, partnerships and support for ongoing and future initiatives.
Courtney Lamm was hired by Galveston College as the new executive director of the Office of Development and the Galveston College Foundation.
inspires confidence,” said Lamm. “I want every stakeholder, students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors and partners, to see themselves as part of a collective effort that drives lasting impact for the Galveston College and the communities we serve.” Lamm sees significant potential to expand the Foundation’s impact in the coming years. Her vision includes increasing scholarships that remove financial barriers, strengthening capital initiatives that enhance teaching and learning environments, and establishing new avenues of support to help students navigate unexpected challenges. She also aims to broaden partnerships with local businesses, schools and organizations to reinforce the college’s role as a regional resource supporting both workforce development and lifelong learning.
“Every person, in their own way, can help strengthen the mission of Galveston College,” said Lamm. “Together, we can do great things.” For more information about the Office of Development and Galveston College Foundation, visit https://gc.edu/about-gc/ administration/foundation-development/ index.php, or call 409-944-1303. ABOUT GALVESTON COLLEGE AND GALVESTON COLLEGE FOUNDATION Galveston College was founded in 1967 and is a comprehensive community college providing the residents of Galveston Island and the surrounding region with academic, workforce development, continuing education and community service programs. The Galveston College Foundation exists to support and enhance the ability of Galveston College to achieve its mission of advancing people’s lives through lifelong learning.
“Relationship building, begins with listening,” said Lamm. “My approach is always to understand what people care about and where their passions align with the mission. Every conversation is an opportunity to build long-term engagement.” A lifelong admirer of Galveston Island, Lamm said this new role feels both professional and personal. She has spent her life connected to the island, swimming its beaches as a child, visiting on spring breaks, returning for family vacations and even honeymooning www.wavesgalveston.com
BUILD Your TOMORROW GC.EDU | 409-944-GCGC
BUILD Your TOMORROW
UNIVERSAL ACCESS SCHOLARSHIP FOR ISLAND GRADS
Eligible local high school graduates – who received a diploma recently or over a decade ago - and attend Galveston College can receive Universal Access assistance for tuition and fees. Universal Access Scholarships ensure every eligible high school graduate, or equivalent in the Galveston College taxing district, has the opportunity to attend college. For more information about UA scholarships, contact the GC Financial Aid office scan the QR code.
SCAN FOR MORE INFORMATION
gc.edu | finaid@gc.edu | 409-944-1235 | Main Campus, M-170 www.wavesgalveston.com
Waves Magazine | January 2026
17
Relationship
ASK J AN & DEAN
Advice with
Jan & Dean Hi Jan & Dean I enjoy your column and read it every month. I never imagined I would be writing to you. I have been dating Ted for a little over three years. The first couple of years went very well. In the past six months, Ted
advantage of, and that is exactly what Ted is doing.
has been spending about 80% of his time at my house. He expects
Hi, Becky - First of all, there are two kinds of people that I
home-cooked meals almost every night. I enjoy cooking, but only when
don’t like. People who are cheap and people who are cheap.
I want to. I don’t want to 365 days a year.
You need to straighten this freeloader out.
On top of that, Ted has never offered one single dollar to me to purchase groceries. Zero. He also has never offered to share any household expenses. When I mention this to him, he says, “I mow the yard.” That’s it. He mows the yard. He never assists with any household repairs. Ted has a good-paying job, and he has no children. There is no reason he can’t share my household expenses. Especially with the groceries!
Tell him the next thing you are going to make for dinner is reservations, and he is going to be paying for it. Period. You need to figure out if this clown is worth trying to fix things with. Only you know the answer to that. Make that decision and stick to it. It may be time to play him the old Ray Charles song, “Hit The Road Jack.” Change the name to Ted and let him listen. If Ted doesn’t figure
This situation is really getting on my nerves, and so is Ted. I am about ready to end this relationship. What should I do, Jan & Dean?
things out and start treating you respectfully, it’s time for him to go. Hit the road, Ted.
Becky is bent
Hi, Becky - I totally understand why you are upset. It seems like Ted wants a chef and a waitress more than he wants a relationship. You are well within your rights to be angry about this. I would have a sit-down talk with Ted and just lay it all out on the table. Tell Ted in very blunt terms that the restaurant is closed. No more free food and handouts. Also tell him that if he doesn’t change his attitude very quickly, that the relationship will come to an end. No one likes to be disrespected and taken
18
Waves Magazine | January 2026
Have a question for Jan & Dean? Go to www.wavesgalveston.com & ask away. You just might have your question answered next month.
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
19
T C
rivia hallenge
20
Answer Reveal on Page 75 C a n Yo u N a m e T h e s e 1 9 8 0 s I c o n s ?
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
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FOCUS
HEAL T H & F ITN ESS
ONFITNESS
Shaye Henderson, BSN, M.Ed., M.S., Instructor a t B e n t O n H e a l t h y L i v i n g We l l n e s s C e n t e r, 2910 53rd Street, Galveston
Turmeric and Ginger The Dynamic Duo Galveston typically sees its coldest month in January, when average
Tu r m e r i c
temperatures dip to their lowest, with daytime highs in the low 60s and
Ginger
nighttime lows hovering near 50°F. Poor us, I know! Still, every now and then, we get a true taste of winter. Just think back to Valentine’s Day 2021—or even the January snow of 2025. Yes, we do have cold days on the island, and when those Arctic blasts arrive, I like to warm my carnivore family with a big pot of chicken soup. My oldest son passed this recipe along to me several years ago. At its core, it’s a classic soup with all the familiar comforts—carrots, onions, celery, garlic, and herbs. What elevates it to Focus on Fitness healthy standards, however, is the addition of fresh turmeric and ginger. Turmeric and ginger are rhizomes (a fancy word for roots) that have been consumed for thousands of years. Ginger originated in ancient China and India, where it was prized both as a spice and a medicine. Historically, it was used as an herbal remedy for motion sickness, nausea, pain, and digestive distress. From there, it spread throughout Asia and Europe and eventually became a household staple around the world.
India remaining its primary producer today. Both ginger and turmeric grow from underground stems that send out shoots along their length, much like a root system. When ready for harvest, both plants produce beautiful flowers above ground—a fun fact many people don’t realize. Although they look similar at first glance, turmeric tends to be more golden-orange on the outside and a deep orange beneath the skin. Ginger is more beige, resembling a knobby potato. Flavor-wise, ginger is warm, spicy, and slightly sweet, while turmeric is earthy, peppery, and mildly bitter.
Think of inflammation as background noise in the body. Turmeric works by turning down the volume at a deep, cellular level, while ginger helps ease the day-to-day signals of soreness, stiffness, and irritation. That’s why many people notice their joints feel looser, musloudly when both are part of the routine. At the same time, this pair acts like a clean-up crew for oxidative stress. Everyday metabolism, stress, and aging all produce free radicals that quietly damage cells over time. Turmeric and ginger are rich in antioxidants, and together they help neutralize those unstable molecules, supporting overall cellular health and slowing inflammation-related wear and tear. Your heart and circulation benefit as well. Ginger gently encourages healthy blood flow and helps keep platelets from becoming overly sticky, while turmeric supports blood vessel health and helps reduce
When you put turmeric and ginger together, you’re really just letting Waves Magazine | January 2026
effectively.
cles recover more quickly, and chronic aches don’t scream quite as
Turmeric also has a long history, particularly in Southeast Asia, with
22
two very compatible plants do what they already do best—only more
oxidation of LDL cholesterol. Used regularly in food or tea, they offer
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Carter’s Chicken Soup
subtle but meaningful cardiovascular support, especially for those managing inflammation. Digestion is another area where this combination truly shines. Ginger wakes up the digestive system, helping food move through the stomach more efficiently while easing nausea, bloating, and that heavy, uncomfortable feeling after meals. Turmeric complements this by supporting bile flow and calming inflammation in the gut lining. Together, they often leave people feeling lighter and more comfortable after eating. There’s also a brain benefit that surprises many people. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, can cross into the brain and help reduce neuroinflammation, while ginger supports circulation that nourishes brain tissue. Over time, this pairing may support mental clarity, focus, and protection against age-related cognitive decline. On the immune side, both roots have natural antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Rather than overstimulating the immune system, they help it respond more efficiently. That’s why turmeric-ginger teas are so popular during cold and flu season, and why many people find they recover faster or experience milder symptoms. Metabolically, the pair may also help smooth out blood-sugar responses. Ginger supports insulin sensitivity, while turmeric helps reduce the inflammation that contributes to insulin resistance. Together, they can help prevent sharp post-meal glucose spikes and promote steadier energy levels.
Ingredients •
1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil
•
6 cloves of garlic, minced
•
1 1/2 large yellow onion, diced
•
6 large carrots, thinly sliced
•
6 celery stalks, roughly chopped
•
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger
•
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh grated turmeric
•
4 cups chicken broth
•
4 cups bone broth
•
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast
•
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
•
1 1/2 teaspoon freshly chopped rosemary
•
1 1/2 teaspoon freshly chopped thyme, stems removed
•
1 1/2 teaspoon freshly chopped oregano
•
1 teaspoon salt
•
Freshly ground black pepper
•
1 cup pearl barley
•
2/3 cup frozen peas (optional, but recommended)
Instructions •
Place a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat and add oil. Once oil is hot, add in garlic, onion, carrots, and celery; cook
All of these benefits come together most naturally when turmeric and ginger are used the way they’ve been enjoyed for centuries—in food
for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent. •
seconds to let the spices cook a bit, then add chicken broth,
or warm drinks. A simple tea made with fresh ginger and turmeric, or a
bone broth, chicken breast and thighs, rosemary, thyme, salt, and
soup cooked with a little healthy fat and a pinch of black pepper, helps the body absorb turmeric’s curcumin more effectively. In this form, the benefits are gentle, cumulative, and generally very well tolerated.
pepper. •
at once—calming inflammation, protecting cells, aiding digestion, supporting heart and brain health, and helping the immune system do its job. That makes them one of the most balanced and time-tested combinations in natural health. So the next time you’re craving a warm bowl of soup, consider adding fresh turmeric and ginger—not just for their rich flavor, but for the
Bring soup to a boil, then stir in barley. You’ll want the chicken to be covered by the broth, so make sure you stir them down to the bottom. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered
In short, turmeric and ginger don’t overwhelm the body with a single dramatic effect. Instead, they quietly support multiple systems
Next, add in grated ginger and grated turmeric. Sauté for 30
for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked. •
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a cutting board to shred with two forks. Add chicken back to the pot, then stir in frozen peas. If you find that you don’t have enough broth, feel free to add in another cup.
Everyone likes their soup differently. Taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary. Enjoy!
powerful health benefits they bring along with it.
Shaye Henderson
And if you’re interested, here’s the recipe. S h a y e H e n d e r s o n , B S N , M . E d . , M . S . , I n s t r u c t o r a t B e n t O n H e a l t h y L i v i n g We l l n e s s C e n t e r, 2 9 1 0 5 3 r d S t r e e t , G a l v e s t o n www.wavesgalveston.com
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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22 55
OUR MISSION
Dedicated to promoting animal welfare and the protection and prevention of unwanted or homeless animals of Galveston Island.
FOSTER FOSTER Fostering Saves Lives. For a weekend or until Fostering Saves Lives. For a weekend or until adoption, give a shelter animal time out of a cage adoption, give a shelter animal time out of a incage a home. could becould instrumental in finding that in aYou home. You be instrumental in animals Fromnew oldhome. dogs to bottle baby findingnew thathome. animals kittens vital to our success. From our old foster dogs program to bottleisbaby kittens our foster program is vital to our success.
VOLUNTEER VOLUNTEER Volunteers are the backbone of GIHS. Assisting with many tasks thebackbone shelter andofoff-site Volunteers areatthe GIHS. events! Sign up today to help adoptable Assisting with manyadvocate tasks atforthe shelter and animals, takeevents! a dog forSign a walk, socialize kittens, at off-site up today to help oradvocate one of any volunteer tasks that make our forother adoptable animals, take a dog mission possible. for a walk, socialize kittens or one of the many other volunteer tasks that make our
mission possible. DONATE Whether in support of one of our designated DONATE programs or as a general contribution every dollar Whether in support of one of our designated supports our mission and it is tax-deductible. We do programs or as a general contribution every have an Amazon wish list as well, you can literally dollar supports our mission and it is tax give a dog a bone. deductible. We do have an Amazon wish list as well, you can SERVICES: literally give a dog a bone. SHELTER
SHELTER SERVICES: Safe housing and for careresident for resident Safe housing and care petspets including including animal health and behavior animal assessments health and behavior assessments. Routine including health care health Routine care including immunizations, worming, and immunizations, worming, and treatment treatment for minor injuries. Rabies observations for minor injuries for bite cases for biteRabies cases.observations Partnering with other organizations with other organizations to to takePartnering in animals as needed. Coordinating transtake in animals as needed for out of state port forCoordinating out-of-state transport placements. placements.
ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS: ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS: -Spay/neuter assistance Spay / neuter assistance -Lost pet assistance and recovery Lost pet assistance and recovery Humane education for all ages -Humane education for all ages Pet food pantry for individuals in need -Pet food pantry forMedical individuals in need Emergency Assistance -Emergency Medical Assistance
WHAT DO ADOPTIONS WHAT DO ADOPTIONS INCLUDE AT GIHS? INCLUDE AT GIHS? All adopted pets are spayed / neutered as -All adopted pets are spayed/neutered as required required by Texas law. by Texas law. Vaccinations including rabies, as well as -Vaccinations including rabies, as wellare asallFlea and Flea and Heartworm prevention current when pet is adopted - Heartworm prevention, are all current when the Microchip pet is adopted. -Microchip.
26
Waves Magazine | January 2026
ADOPT FOSTER SPONSOR VOLUNTEER EDUCATE DONATE CONNECT WITH US @GALVESTONHUMANE ON SOCIAL OR VISIT US : 6814 BROADWAY GALVESTON, TX 77554 (409) 740-1919 MEET GIHS! WWW.GALVESTONHUMANE.ORG
The Galveston Island Humane Society INC., formed in 1981 as a 501C3, non-profit organization. Originally created by concerned citizens to rescue animals from “the pound” and much has changed over the last few decades. Today we have a humane shelter with a no-kill live release rate. Daily we provide care for lost or homeless pets, reuniting pets with their families and promoting the adoption of pets needing homes.
MEET GIHS The “Big Fix” The Galveston Island Humane Society, Inc., formed GIHS is dedicated to ensuring ALL pets are spayed in 1981, is a 501c3, non-profit organization. Origior neutered to decrease the number of homeless nally created by concerned citizens to rescue aniand unwanted pets as well as the number of pets mals from “the pound,” much has changed. Today entering the shelter. Through generous grant fundwe have a humane shelter, providing care for lost ing, we offer spay/neuter assistance programs at As an “open admission” shelter for or homeless pets, reuniting pets with families, and low to no cost for those in need. ContactGalveston the shelter Island we accept all homeless pets even when thepromoting shelter is full. a city the In adoptions of pets needing homes. information with a high number of homeless pets, this THEfor"BIG FIX"about the “Big Fix!” GIHS is dedicated to ensuring ALL pets are spayed or neutered to decrease the number of homeless and unwanted pets as well as the number of pets entering the shelter. Through generous grant funding we offer spay/neuter assistance programs at low to no cost for those in need. Contact the shelter for information about the "Big Fix!"
could easily lead to needless euthanasia.
Our programs workAs diligently to reduce the shelter for Galveston an “open admission” GALVESTON ISLAND COMMUNITYnumber CATSof pets in our community. We are Island, we accept all homeless pets, even when the committed to assuring that adoptable pets GICC was established in 2015 and is a progressive are kept available until they are placed in a shelter is full. In a city with a high number of homeTrap/Neuter/Return (TNR) program to fix, vaccinate family or transferred to a partner organization. less pets, which could lead to needless euthanasia, and release feral cats on the island. To date, we our programs diligently to reduce the number Our shelter is managed by a boardwork of have altered over 4000 felines with this program. directors caring staff of and petsactive in ourvolunteers community. The success of this program has reduced yearly who work to provide for the pets in our care
along with creating and managing intake at GIHS and has improved our live release community programs that will positively are committed to assuring that adoptable pets GALVESTON ISLAND rate in cats from 52% in 2014 to 94% in impact 2024. our shelter.We We hope you will join us in our mission to make sure that every until pet they are placed in a family are kept available COMMUNITY CATS on Galveston Island can live out his or her HOW YOU CAN HELP or transferred to a partner organization. Our shelter life in a loving home. GICC was established in 2015 and is a progressive Trap/Neuter/Return -Microchip your pets. (TNR) is managed by a board of directors, caring staff, program to fix, vaccinate and release and HELP? active volunteers who work to provide for the -Spay neuter pets. HOW CAN YOU feral cats on or the island.your To date we have Microchip your pets altered overand 4000 felines with pets in our care along with creating and managing -Like share from ourthis social networks. Spay or neuter your pets and encourage program. community programs that will positively impact our -Become a member GIHS. others to do the same The success of this programof has reduced yearly intake at GIHS and has improved shelter. We hope you will join us in our mission to -ADOPT your next best friend. Like and share from our social our live release rate in cats from 52% in make sure that every pet on Galveston Island can Become a member of GIHS 2014 to 94%in 2024 -VOLUNTEER at the shelter. ADOPT your next best live friend out his or her life in a loving home. -FOSTER if you cannot adopt. VOLUNTEER at the shelter FOSTER if you cannot adopt -DONATE to support our mission. DONATE to support our mission
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C AT S , C AT S , C AT S !
GIHS is overflowing with kittens and cats of every age, size, color, and personality. Come meet them and discover your future best friend! Gandolf, Elora, Socks, and Willow are already plotting to steal your heart. Fostering is also a wonderful—and much needed—option right now. Whether you’re ready to adopt or open your home temporarily, these whiskered wonders can’t wait to meet you. See you soon at GIHS! The Galveston Island Humane Society is always in need of volunteers, fosters, and adopters. By spending time with the shelter animals, you can help them socialize and also promote their adoption. Becoming a foster parent or adopting can give them the mental and emotional break they need from shelter life. If
Gandolf
Elora
you’re interested in fostering, please visit: www.galvestonhumane.org/foster
If you’re interested in adopting the kitties, please apply at www.galvestonhumane.org/adopt
Willow
Socks
January 2025
February 2025
March 2025
THANKS for a CHEERS to a
July 2025
August 2025
More information at www.galvestonhumane.org Photo Credit: Amy Murdock @humanegalvestonphotography
April 2025
May 2025
June 2025
GREAT 2025! GREAT 2026!
September 2025
October 2025
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November 2025
December 2025
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MEET THE ARTIST Bob Rohan, or as he is known in Texas “Bad Bob”, has been playing the fiddle and singing in various groups for over 30 years in Texas, and has opened for Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Charlie Daniels, Carlene Carter and John Conley to name a few. Bob has played in bands that have backed up country legends like Hank Thompson, Ray Price, Jack Greene, Pam Tillis, and Dale Watson. Along with songwriting, Bob is also a talented cartoonist and has a self syndicated comic strip titled “Buffalo Gals”. The comic feature is about two cowgirls “Bess Winchester” and “Connie Cheyenne”. The comic strip was inspired after playing with “The Hays County Gals and Pals” a cowgirl western group that toured through Texas, Oklahoma and as far west as Elko, Nevada. Bob has won The Wisconsin State Fiddle Championship and has been nominated several times from The Academy of Western Artists for Best Cowboy Cartoonist.
w w w. b a d b o b r o h a n . c o m
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
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29
Happy winter, Wavers!
On the Island, winter becomes more than a season; it’s a gentle reminder of Galveston’s resilience, its spirit shining as brightly as the holiday lights that dance along the harbor.
I hope you all had a great holiday! The 1st of the year provides us with the opportunity to reflect. Let’s go back just one month, December. A month that has quietly, but repeatedly, marked turning
Enjoy these fun facts about a Galveston December. A White Island Christmas
points for the Island. While many of Galveston’s most famous events happened in other months
The earliest weather record-keeping for Galveston is 1871.
(like the 1900 Storm in September or Juneteenth
In the hundred years between 1900 and 1999, there were
in June), December has played an important
39 years with snowfall. Eleven of those years had meas-
supporting role in the island’s story — through war,
urable amounts, while the rest had “trace” amounts. Our
recovery, commerce, and culture.
Island all time low is 8°F on February 12, 1899. Another St. Mary’s Cathedral covered in snow, February 1940 - Rosenberg Library
History
historic event came to our Island when an unprecedented record Snowfall of 15.4 inches occurred in December 1895.
The worst Island winter was in 1886, when Galveston Bay froze. December in Galveston has been:
Fun Fact: In 2004, Galveston experienced its first-ever white Christmas.
•
A month of suspense during the Civil War.
•
A month of commerce in the 19th century.
•
A month of renewal after disaster.
•
A month of heritage and celebration in modern
One of my favorite family traditions each December is
times.
attending a performance of the classic Nutcracker! The
•
It’s a month that consistently reflects the
famous Nutcracker shows up on the Island as the winter
island’s identity: resilient, historic, maritime,
winds begin each year. It is a tradition that anchors the
and community-centered.
city’s seasonal cultural celebrations and connects modern
In December 1862, Union forces occupied Gal-
Nutcracker at The Grand
Nutcracker at The Grand
audiences with classical performing arts. Over many years, its annual performances by the City Ballet of Hou-
veston during the Civil War, setting the stage for
ston and other local companies have made The Nutcracker a cherished holiday centerpiece for
the Battle of Galveston that followed soon after on
families. It marks the festive season on the island and contributes to Galveston’s identity as a
January 1, 1863.
hub for arts and community gatherings. The consistent staging of this classical ballet reinforces the Grand Opera House’s legacy and underscores the city’s long-standing commitment to pre-
The winter months also became associated with
serving and celebrating historic forms of entertainment. The Nutcracker lives in the 1894 Grand
the city’s long-standing winter traditions, includ-
Opera House for 2-3 days each year. Often called The Grand 1894 Opera House, it is one of
ing the Victorian-themed “Dickens on the Strand”
the state’s most treasured historic performing arts venues.
festival, which celebrates Galveston’s 19th-century heritage each year. Together, these events
Built by architect Frank Cox, it quickly became a cultural center for the Gulf Coast, host-
highlight a time when both historical turning points
ing operas, vaudeville shows, concerts, and traveling performers. Remarkably, the building
and cultural traditions have shaped Galveston’s
survived the catastrophic 1900 Storm and continued to serve the community through changing
identity. 30
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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FUN FACTS
by thomas waggoner eras of entertainment. After declining mid-century, it was restored in the 1970s and reopened as a premier historic theater. Today, The Grand stands as a National Historic Landmark and a symbol of Galveston’s resilience, artistic heritage, and commitment to preservation. Fun Fact: The The Grand
music for the Nutcracker, written by Tchaikovsky in
1892, was composed only two years earlier than the opening of The Grand. The Strand
Iceland at Moody Gardens
sculpting the ice into towering masterpieces, some
Dickens on The Strand
The 52nd anniversary of Dickens on the Strand was De-
reaching 30 feet tall. Just in time for your Decem-
cember 5-7, 2025. The Strand is the name of a waterfront
ber festivities! These artists regularly compete at
street in both Galveston and London. Starting in 1974,
the world’s top ice festivals. The intricate sculp-
Galvestonians and their friends have dressed in Victo-
tures they create for Moody Gardens are among
rian era costumes and celebrated Charles Dickens and
the most unique displays in the U.S. This master
19th-century London. Each winter, Galveston’s historic
team will carve out a magnificent masterpiece
Strand District seems to breathe again with the warm glow of Christmases long past. Lantern
using two million pounds of ice to sculpt displays
light flickers across the ornate Victorian iron-front buildings that survived both prosperity and
for a truly extraordinary, frosty December journey
the great storm of 1900, casting soft halos on cobblestones once trodden by merchants and
through the rainforest.
sailors. As carolers in hoop skirts and top hats fill the salty Gulf air with music, the island feels suspended between eras. Its festive wreaths and red ribbons draped over centuries-old balco-
Fun Fact: Iceland was first introduced to the
nies are gifts from history itself.
Island in 2014.
Fun Fact: As a result of the Dickens on the Strand festival, the Strand Historic District
Recycle - Oh Christmas Tree
became a National Historic District in the National Register of Historic Places. Beautiful Christmas trees decFestival of Lights
orate the island every December. This picture is one of my favorites. Residents of Bermuda Beach have revived a program to use real Christmas trees as a base material for dune construction. This will help replace dunes wiped out by a series of storms. Plants will begin growing on piles of sand that make up the dunes. Dune plants send down
Festival of Lights
Each Winter, be sure to take a stroll along this mile-long trail featuring more than two million
roots that trap and hold sand, aiding in the process
lights. That’s a lot of lights! The lighted scenes are themed to holiday music that takes you
of beach building.
around the Moody Gardens property. There are also spectacular views of Galveston Bay. The lights are a favorite for taking December holiday photos! Fun Fact: Homemade S’mores, hot
Fun Fact: Professionals on the Island collect
chocolate, and mistletoe are offered along the way!
soil DNA samples to study how dune plants perform under varying conditions.
Iceland at Moody Gardens Historical December at Moody Mansion Over 7,000 blocks of ice weighing 300 pounds each are transported from the Flying Penguin Ice facility in College Station. According to Moody Gardens Inc., A talented team of ice carvers
The thirty-one-room mansion was completed in
from Harbin, China—home to the world-famous Harbin Snow & Ice Festival—spend 37 days
1895. William Lewis Moody, Jr., for whom the
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
31
FUN FACTS
continued house is named, occupied the home in 1900 when
The Polar Express story unfolds on stage, where the book comes alive with the introduction of
the great storm hit in September.
the cast. The dream becomes real when the conductor enters the depot to call, “All Aboard – Are you Comin’?” Everyone departs for their assigned train for the departure to the North Pole.
Fun Fact: Surviving the Great Storm, Moody,
After the conductor validates each passenger’s Golden Ticket, the fun begins with dancing
his wife, and four children celebrated their first
waiters, Santa’s helpers, book characters, and Santa himself boards the train for a rollicking
Christmas at the mansion only 3 months later.
trip - YES!! THE TRAIN DOES LEAVE THE STATION!!
W.L. Moody
Fun Fact: The Museum was used as a movie set in the Orson Welles production of Kaf-
Jr. was
ka’s The Trial.
among Ameri-
Moody Mansion
ca’s wealthi-
The performers provide entertainment all the way to the North Pole while the train clickety
est individu-
clacks down Harborside Drive. Onboard travelers are served hot chocolate.
als. He died
in 1954. He had a wide range of enterprises based
Plan now for the 2026 Christmas Parade!
on insurance, banking, cotton trading, ranching, publishing, hotels, and railroads. His eldest child,
I love a parade! The 2025 Christmas Parade was held on December 13 at
Mary Moody Northen, inherited the house and busi-
6:30 p.m. It was great! The annual parade is sponsored by the Galveston
nesses and was hailed as a pioneer among women
Municipal Police Association and features floats from the community. The
in business. Northen lived in the house from 1954
Island invites you to participate in next year’s parade. Entry is at least one
to 1983, when damage from Hurricane Alicia dictat-
unwrapped toy for the Blue Santa program.
ed a major renovation effort. She was dedicated to preserving her family home and heritage, and she established the Mary Moody Northen Endowment
Christmas Parade
The parade began on 25th Street and Postoffice, proceeded east to 19th Street, then north to Strand, and west to 25th Street.
to protect the property. Following repairs and restoration, it was opened as a house museum in 1991.
Fun Fact: Convince your friends to join you next December and be in next year’s parade!
Today, its rooms are filled with the furnishings and
Make a float!
personal effects of the family. Gifts from Santa Fun Fact: Moody Mansion is the Travel ChanGalveston is a fantastic place to find gifts for everyone! I always start at Murdoch’s.
nel’s most famous in Texas!
When it comes to gift-giving, the best presents are those that create lasting memories.
Polar Express It was all aboard,
Fun Fact: On December 16, 1905, a beautiful Japanese-style vase “appeared” at the
and pajamas
Rosenberg Library. The library had only been open for a year and a half. The identity
encouraged! This
of the “Secret Santa” has never been discovered, but more than a century later, this
experience hosts
thoughtful holiday gift can still be enjoyed by visitors to the library.
more than 38,000 Polar Express
visitors each
Talk about a December to remember, wow! Looking back, even for just one month, gives per-
December at the
spective. If you missed one of these Island great adventures, be sure to plan ahead and make
Galveston Railroad Museum. The show starts as
next December a memorable one! From one Waver to another, I hope you have a wonderful
the Train comes steaming into the depot!
New Year! Enjoy our beautiful island.
Fun Fact: In 1932, the Gulf, Colorado, and Santa
Catch you next month!
Fe railroad built the current Art Deco depot that is home to the Polar Express.
32
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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Thomas Waggoner
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William Matheny Thursday, January 22, 2026 Doors 8:00pm · Showtime 8:30pm
Sundance Head Thursday, January 29, 2026 Doors 8:00pm · Showtime 8:30pm
Aaron LaCombe Friday, January 30, 2026 Doors 8:00pm · Showtime 8:30pm
Midnight River Choir Thursday, February 19, 2026 Doors 8:00pm · Showtime 8:30pm
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
33
WAV E S DI N I N G SECTION Your time is valuable. Trust Waves Dining
G A L VWA E S T OVN EI S SL A N D MAGAZINE OF
GALVESTON
Section to be your personal concierge on the Galveston Dining Circuit. With tips, amenities, features like outdoor seating, pet friendliest places and price points, let us test the WAVES at various Island Restaurants for you!
See you at the table! CONTRIBUTING EDITORS: Tom Valliere Charlie Bresenhan
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35
HIGH-QUALITY SEAFOOD PRODUCTS - LARGEST RETAIL SEAFOOD DISPLAY IN GALVESTON
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
(409) 763-8160 Hours - Mon.- Sun. - 8:30am - 6pm
Red Snapper | Grouper | Golden Tile Fish | Flounder | Oysters | Shrimp | | Blue Crabs | Whole Fish | Seasonings | Meals Ready To Cook | and more! Supporting the local economy, Gulf Wild and Gulf of Mexico commercial fishermen since 1998.
1902 Wharf Rd, Galveston, Texas w w w. k a t i e s s e a f o o d m a r k e t . c o m
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W a v e s M a g a z i n e | JS ae np ut ea mr yb e2r0 2 60 2 2
www.wavesgalveston.com
Pennie’s Take Out Menu Smoked Brisket Quality brisket covered with our original rub, slow smoked and ready to be sliced when you order.
409-765-5719
1713 37th Street, Galveston, TX 77550
Pork Ribs Pork ribs cooked with our original rub till almost done then basted with our honey sweetened sauce.
Barbacoa (Sat. and Sun. Only) Pennie Ochoa’s delicious recipe. Tender, moist shredded beef is the result.
Grilled Chicken Chicken spiced with our rub cooked over wood. Unlike any
Sides and Dessert All sides are made fresh at Pennie’s
chicken you have ever eaten. Link Sausage Pork and Beef link sausage smoked over oak ready and waiting for you to order.
Award-winning
Tamales
Pork & Beef Blend | Jalapeno Bean | Chicken | Jalapeno Pork & Beef Blend
We Now Ship Our Tamales and Whole Briskets
Sandwiches Chopped Beef | Sliced Beef | Sausage | Comes with a complimentary 4 oz side Stuffed Baked Potato Huge baked potato filled with butter, cheese, sour cream, chives and best of all chopped brisket!
Potato Salad Dill based cool refreshing chopped potatoes mixed with dressings. Pinto Beans My own recipe made fresh daily. Lots of love goes into the beans. Spanish Rice Green Beans Cole Slaw Banana Pudding Trifle
Find Us On
Pork Ribs Savour our mouth-watering pork ribs, smoked to perfection using our own original rub and finished with our sweet, sticky glaze made with honey and other secret ingredients. www.wavesgalveston.com
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11150 Termini-San Luis Pass Rd, Galveston, TX 77554 +1(409)-539-5534
LIGHT. FRESH. COASTAL. Star the year with intention at Cooper’s Landing - Galveston. From fresh coastal seafood, vibrant seasonal salads and expertly crafted mocktails, our menu celebrates fresh flavors and effortless coastal living - because the best resolutions are the ones you enjoy keeping.
HAPPY MONDAYS Celebrate Monday nights! One free children's meal with every adult entree purchase.
WINE-DOWN WEDNESDAY Special discounts on select appetizers and bottles of wine with extended Social Hour until 8 PM
JANUARY = BLOOD DONOR MONTH Bring in your "I DONATED BLOOD" sticker and get 10% off your entree (not to be combined with any other offers)
www.cooperslandingtx.com
www.wavesgalveston.com
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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Pizza, Vino, e Amore
Make your Valentine’s Day reservations today! 628 SEAWALL BLVD.
409-763-1693
MARIOSSEAWALL.COM
PIZZA PIZZA PICKUP PICKUP $ 9.99 SPECIAL SPECIAL
LARG 1 REG E U TOPPI LAR NG
Scan to Order
Wednesdays 3 PM - 9 PM | mariosseawall.com
Unlock Exclusive Wednesday Pizza Pickup Add Ons
$6 LRG HOUSE OR 4 0 CAESAR W a v e s M a g a zSALAD ine | January 2026
$8 MEATBALL w w w APPETIZER .wavesgalveston.com
$6 DESSERT OF CHOICE
2101 POSTOFFICE STREET 409-497-4279 ENJOY PICKUP & DELIVERY!
Voted Best Margarita, Mexican, Chips & Salsa, Ceviche, & Queso
ORDER DIRECTLY THROUGH TAQUILO’S AND SAVE ON FEES FROM DOORDASH & UBER EATS
2105 POSTOFFICE STREET 409-621-4759 ENJOY PICKUP & DELIVERY!
Voted Best Martini, Happy Hour, Asian, & Sushi
ORDER DIRECTLY THROUGH SKY BAR AND SAVE ON FEES FROM DOORDASH & UBER EATS
2107 POSTOFFICE STREET 409-744-8626
ENJOY PICKUP & DELIVERY!
www.wavesgalveston.com
Voted Best Gumbo, Cajun, Oysters, Shrimp, & Crawfish
ORDER DIRECTLY THROUGH GUMBO BAR AND SAVE ON FEES FROM DOORDASH & W a v e s M a g a z i n e | J a nUBER u a r y 2EATS 026 41
Big B I TES by: Tom Valliere & Charlie Bresenhan
A Tale of Two Lupitas Tex-Mex Restaurants 4 5 t h S t r e e t i s a c u r i o u s c o r r i d o r. A s a m a i n n o r t h – s o u t h street, it provides Seawall access from Broadway for those w h o k n o w h o w t o a v o i d t h e t r a ff i c o n 6 1 s t S t r e e t . L i k e m a n y midtown neighborhoods, it packs an impressive amount of diversity into a relatively short stretch. It borders one of G a l v e s t o n ’s f i n e s t r e s i d e n t i a l a r e a s w h i l e a l s o h o s t i n g b a r b e r s h o p s , c o n v e n i e n c e s t o r e s , a n u r s e r y, l i q u o r s t o r e s , a n d a p a i r o f a u t h e n t i c a n d w o n d e r f u l Te x ‑ M e x r e s t a u r a n t s .
I t ’s n o s e c r e t t h a t I ’ m a f a n o f M e x i c a n f o o d . F o r m e , i t ’s pure comfort. Nothing brightens a gloomy morning like perfectly scrambled eggs with chorizo. Who doesn’t love a trio of enchiladas swimming in molten yellow cheese, topped w i t h c i l a n t r o a n d c h o p p e d o n i o n ? F o r g e t y o u r g r a n d m o t h e r ’s chicken soup—she has never been revived by a heaping bowl of caldo, that delicious Mexican concoction that is a full meal i n i t s e l f . I t h i n k I a c t u a l l y s u ff e r w i t h d r a w a l i f I g o a w e e k without at least one or two Mexican meals.
tourists flock to the large, flashy restaurants on the Seawall and the Strand, they often miss the dozens of small family eateries tucked into our residential neighborhoods. These
Waves Magazine | January 2026
appear a bit rough to the uninitiated, but they are safe, clean, welcoming, and often unforgettable. A visit or two during your stay may become a highlight of your trip—and perhaps the start of a tradition.
This month, I want to introduce two of my favorites, both owned by the same family and located just a few blocks apart.
The complete reconstruction of 45th Street took a toll on
F o r t u n a t e l y, G a l v e s t o n I s l a n d o ff e r s m a n y o p t i o n s . W h i l e
42
Mom‑and‑Pop places are everywhere if you look. Some may
b u s i n e s s e s a l o n g t h e c o r r i d o r. B o t h L u p i t a Te x ‑ M e x a t 2 3 1 4 45th and the newer Lupita 2 at 1728 45th rose from the ashes of two former Mexican restaurants that closed due to financial strain from the construction and rising lease costs.
www.wavesgalveston.com
The former Los Compas at 2314 appears to have closed
are here, along with less common Guatemalan selections such
p e r m a n e n t l y, w h i l e t h e f o r m e r M i A b u e l i t o ’s a t 1 7 2 8 s e e m s t o
a s b l a c k b e a n s , f r i e d p l a n t a i n s , a n d q u e s o f r e s c o . I t ’s a n i c e
have reopened at 29th and Seawall under the new name Mi
change if you prefer a more Central American flavor profile.
A b u e l o ’s , s t i l l o p e r a t e d b y t h e p r e v i o u s o w n e r. C o n f u s e d y e t ?
T h e c o ff e e i s h o t a n d p l e n t i f u l — h o n e s t l y, i t ’s n e a r l y i m p o s s i b l e
Don’t worry—you’ll get a fine meal at any of these locations.
t o g e t b a d c o ff e e a t a n y l o c a l l y o w n e d H i s p a n i c r e s t a u r a n t . Oversized, bargain‑priced breakfast burritos make excellent
Aside from their physical spaces, the two Lupita restaurants
takeout if you’re on the run. A kids’ menu keeps things
s h a r e m o s t m e n u i t e m s . T h e o r i g i n a l Te x ‑ M e x l o c a t i o n o ff e r s
f a m i l y ‑ f r i e n d l y a n d a ff o r d a b l e .
an expanded menu with dinner service, while Lupita 2 serves b r e a k f a s t a n d l u n c h o n l y. B o t h a l s o o ff e r G u a t e m a l a n ‑ s t y l e
The restaurants are widely praised for their caldo and seafood
breakfasts. The menus are extensive, and since most dishes
dishes. I’m a big fan of Mexican‑style soups: large chunks of
overlap, I won’t separate them by location.
meat, rich aromatic broth, whole vegetables—truly a meal in a bowl. Don’t overthink how to eat it. Just dig in and sop up the
I’ve eaten at both restaurants, and although I’ve only sampled
rest with fresh homemade tortillas. A word of caution about the
a handful of dishes, everything has been delicious, expertly
m e n u d o : i t ’s a n a c q u i r e d t a s t e a n d n o t f o r e v e r y o n e . T h e y a l s o
p r e p a r e d , a n d w e l l s e r v e d . Yo u r c h o i c e s h o u l d c o m e d o w n t o
o ff e r s e v e r a l s e a f o o d s o u p s t h a t r e c e i v e e x c e l l e n t r e v i e w s ,
c o n v e n i e n c e a n d o p e r a t i n g h o u r s — n o t c o n c e r n s a b o u t q u a l i t y.
though I haven’t tried them yet.
A f t e r a f r i e n d l y g r e e t i n g a n d m y d r i n k o r d e r, I w a s s e r v e d f r e s h
On a recent visit, I ordered the beef fajitas, and they were
tortilla chips and a very good red, slightly picante salsa. The
among the best I’ve had. A huge sizzling comal arrived piled
c h i p s w e r e c r i s p a n d n o t g r e a s y. N e x t t i m e , I ’ l l r e q u e s t t h e
with tender beef, caramelized onions, and peppers, served
g r e e n s a l s a — I ’ m s u r e i t ’s e q u a l l y g o o d .
with charro beans, rice, and pico de gallo. The beans were outstanding. It was a large, satisfying lunch, and I’ll definitely
Breakfast is a major focus. All the expected Mexican dishes
return for more.
www.wavesgalveston.com
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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On previous visits, I’ve had the enchiladas, which were easily
Locations & Hours of Operation
on par with the best. Based on what I’ve tried, I wouldn’t hesitate to order anything on the menu—everything seems fresh and delicious.
L u p i t a Te x ‑ M e x R e s t a u r a n t 2314 45th Street G a l v e s t o n , Te x a s 7 7 5 5 0
I haven’t talked much about service, but expect it to be
(409) 354‑7745
excellent. It always has been for me. These are older buildings a n d f o r m e r h o u s e s , s o d o n ’ t e x p e c t a n y t h i n g f a n c y, b u t t h e y a r e m e t i c u l o u s l y c l e a n , b r i g h t , a n d i n v i t i n g . T h e s t a ff i s knowledgeable and happy to answer questions.
Hours of Operation Open 7 days. S u n d a y – Tu e s d a y 6 : 0 0 A M – 3 : 0 0 P M We d n e s d a y – S a t u r d a y 6 : 0 0 A M – 8 : 0 0 P M
Lupita Restaurant #2 1728 45th Street G a l v e s t o n , Te x a s 7 7 5 5 0 I could continue describing dishes, but I’d rather you visit and
(409) 443‑5105
explore for yourself. I’m impressed with both restaurants, and I t h i n k y o u w i l l b e t o o . M o r e b r o a d l y, t h e y r e p r e s e n t w h a t I ’ v e
Hours of Operation
come to expect from our small, locally owned eateries: we have
O p e n d a i l y, b r e a k f a s t a n d l u n c h o n l y.
m a n y, a n d t h e y a r e u n i v e r s a l l y g o o d .
5:30 AM–2:30 PM
B o t h r e s t a u r a n t s a r e a c c e s s i b l e a n d o ff e r s o m e o ff ‑ s t r e e t parking. They are popular and can get busy during peak hours.
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
www.wavesgalveston.com
Barbecue, Beer, & Bourbon 70 Bourbons & Whiskeys 30 Tequilas 50 Beers 25 Wines
2021 The Strand #3
Located in Galveston’s Historic Strand District
409-539-5128 www.coastalstarbrewingcompany.com
www.wavesgalveston.com
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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January Featured Dishes
Pennie’s Pork Ribs
Fish and Chips
Savour our mouth-watering pork ribs, smoked to perfection using our own original rub and finished with our sweet, sticky glaze made with honey and other secret ingredients.
Crispy beer-battered Alaskan Pollock served with seasoned fries, house-made tartar sauce, and a lemon wedge. A classic seaside favorite with a Galveston twist— flaky, golden, and hard to share.
Pennie’s Tex-Mex 1713 37th Street ( 409)-765-5719
Huli Huli Hut 504 25th Street (409)-443-5525
Jumbo Fried Gulf Shrimp Special 10 Golden-fried Gulf shrimp over a bed of fries served with colelsaw at The Gumbo Diner. Only $14.99! The Gumbo Diner 3602 Seawall Blvd. (409) 762-3232
ELEVATE
Your Tastebuds
Huevos Rancheros
Elevate your Wednesdays at Saltwater Grill
2 Eggs, a side of refried beans, fried corn tortillas with cheese all topped with fresh salsa and avocado. Served with warm corn tortillas.
Join us every Wednesday and indulge in our succulent, hand-cut prime rib served with house au jus, your choice of mashed potatoes or baked potato, and buttered broccoli. Pair your meal with our 1/2 price select bottles of wine - only on Wednesdays!
ShyKatz 1528 Avenue L (409) 770-0500 46
Waves Magazine | January 2026
Saltwater Grill - 2017 Postoffice Street (409) 762-3474 www.wavesgalveston.com
Coconut Crusted Red Snapper $12 LUNCH SPECIALS MONDAY-FRIDAY 11AM-3PM SOCIAL HOUR MONDAY-FRIDAY 2PM-6PM
Coconut crusted red snapper topped with mango pico de gallo, one jumbo scallop (409) 539-5534 and one jumbo shrimp, accompanied with char-grilled broccolini and herb roasted potatoes
STEAK SPECIALS EVERY THURSDAY 4PM-9PM
11150 TERMINI-SAN LUIS PASS ROAD GALVESTON, TX 77554
Cooper’s Landing 11150 Termini-San Luis Pass (409) 539-5534 SCAN HERE FOR WEBSITE
January Featured Dishes
The Joey
Churro Bites
The Best Cajun Poboy
Loaded with house-made Italian sausage, chunky vine-ripened tomatoes, mozzarella, and Romano cheese, this Chicago-style favorite delivers bold flavor and a perfectly baked crust in every bite.
New! Golden, crispy, and dusted with just the right amount of cinnamon-sugar, our Churro Bites are bite-sized delights that pack big flavor. Each piece is perfectly fried for a light crunch on the outside and a soft, doughy center. Served warm with Salted Caramel drizzle. Papa’s Pizza 4400 Seawall Blvd (409) 766-7272
A Galveston classic: crispy fried fish, shrimp, or oysters tucked into a warm, fresh-baked baguette, dressed with tangy Cajun remoulade. Served with fries and slaw — no shortcuts, just coastal comfort.
Puffy Taco Tuesdays
Sky Bar $5 Martini Thursdays
Marios Seawall Italian and Pizzeria 628 Seawall Blvd (409) 763-1693
Jumbo Fried Gulf Shrimp Special 10 Golden-fried Gulf shrimp over a bed of fries served with colelsaw at The Gumbo Diner. Only $14.99! Little Daddy’s Gumbo Bar 2107 Postoffice Street (409) 744-8626
Every Tuesday for just $9.99, enjoy two ground beef puffy tacos. Available for dine-in only. Add a $5 happy hour marg to complete your meal! Taquilo’s Tex-Mex Cantina 2101 Postoffice (409) 497-4279
www.wavesgalveston.com
Katie’s Seafood 2000 Wharf Rd (409) 765-5688
Good times and great rolls are waiting for you on Thursdays at Sky Bar. Enjoy our $5 Award-Winning happy hour Martinis and sushi by the piece every Thursday from 5-10 PM. SkyBar 2105 Postoffice (409) 621-4759
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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NOW OPEN MONDAY’S FROM 8 AM TO 8 PM!
ShyKatZ 1528 Ave L Galveston, TX 77550
(409) 770-0500 shykatz.com / ShyKatZ
Open every day 8 AM to 2 PM
S H Y K AT Z WHERE FRIENDS MEET AND LOCALS EAT!
We offer: •
Bakery
•
Box Lunches
•
Catering
•
Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch
Blue Plate Special Monday through Friday Only $13.99
Come Dine on our Pet-Friendly Patio in the Beautiful Galveston Historical District 48
W a v e s M a g a z i n e | JS ae np ut ea mr yb e2r0 2 60 2 2
www.wavesgalveston.com
We are proud to be the only seafood restaurant in Galveston that offers boat-totable Seafood & Texas Gulf Shrimp.
Voted BEST WATERFRONT DINING 2 years in a row. Voted BEST SEAFOOD in Galveston.
www.katiesseafoodhouse.com
Address: 2000 Wharf Rd, Galveston, TX, 409-765-5688
www.wavesgalveston.com
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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Valentine’s Day at MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS TODAY! 2017 POSTOFFICE ST.
409-762-3474
SALTWATERGRILL.COM
PRIME RIB Wednesdays Pair With
1/2 Price Select bottles of wine
www.wavesgalveston.com
Waves Magazine | January 2026
50
Fried Jumbo Gulf Shrimp Platter Special 10 Gulf Shrimp on a bed of Crinkle-Cut Fries. Served with coleslaw
$
14.99
All Day Every Day!
Order Online!
Try The
Hangover Burger!
3602 SEAWALL BLVD 51 Waves Magazine | January 2026
409-762-3232 www.wavesgalveston.com
THEGUMBODINER.COM
Pizza, Seafood, Burgers, Wings, And More! AWA R D WINNING C R AW F I SH
Sports On 10 Big Screens!
Enjoy
LIVE
New Location 504 25th Street
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Entertainment 7 Days A Week Hours of Operation: Sunday to Thursday - 11am to 11pm Friday & Saturday - 11am to Midnight
H u l i H u l i H u t | 5 0 4 2 5 t h S t r e e t | G a l v e s t o n , Te x a s 7 7 5 5 0 | 4 0 9 - 4 4 3 - 5 5 2 5 f awcwewb. woa ov eks .gca ol vm hulihut Waves Magazine | January 2026 e s/t ho nu. cl oi m
www.wavesgalveston.com
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www.wavesgalveston.com
www.wavesgalveston.com
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PAUL HAGER
CURTAIN GOING UP By: Paul Hager
PAUL HAGER
THE 10 BEST BROADWAY SHOWS OF 2025 AND 3 OF THE WORST It’s time for the curtain to fall on another year of theatre, so once again, let’s take a look at the Broadway shows from last year that Entertainment Weekly thinks deserve a standing ovation… and some that don’t. While Broadway still thrives on tourists who flock to see marqueeworthy movie stars, familiar titles, and jukebox musicals, that doesn’t mean the Great White Way doesn’t have plenty of gems to offer. Here’s hoping we’ll see some of these produced by our area venues when they become available. 10. CHESS - Many a musical theater fanatic let out a gay gasp when it was announced that a Chess revival was headed to Broadway. The news on its own would have been reason enough for celebration — particularly given that its songwriters, ABBA’s Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, have only grown in popularity among younger fans since the success of Mamma Mia! — but then factor in the impressive lead cast of soaring vocalists: Aaron Tveit, Nicholas Christopher, and Lea Michele. The talent bench was so deep that many early attendees didn’t even know A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder Tony nominee Bryce Pinkham was in the cast. Pinkham’s narrator, a new character, steals the show (not an easy task) and is a literal personification of everything this new production improves upon from the version that ran only two months in 1988. A new book by Danny Strong provides context to the Cold War chess tournament story that previously left audiences entertained but confused, and it may just get Pinkham a second Tony nom. (Side note: There’s a moment of stage magic during “One Night in Bangkok” that you won’t get out of your head for weeks.) 9. Liberation - Is it possible to better understand our late loved ones through the stories they left behind? That’s the question at the heart of Bess Wohl’s Liberation, a moving memory play that sees young mom Lizzie (Susannah Flood) attempt to recontextualize her own mom’s life and choices through the lens of the women’s liberation group that she founded in the smelly basement of an Ohio rec center in the 1970s. As equally charming as it is painfully relevant, Liberation challenges theatergoers to reflect on the sacrifices of the women who came before them, the power of sisterhood, and our present-day political perils and how we plan to address them moving forward. And it does it all with endless wit, fiery rage, and staggering moments of heartbreakingly genuine vulnerability along the way. —Emlyn Travis 8. Just in Time - Jonathan Groff in ‘Just in Time’.Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman - There’s a damn good reason that people have spent 56
Waves Magazine | January 2026
half the year flocking to the Circle in the Square Theater: Jonathan Groff is absolutely irresistible in Just in Time. The Broadway darling has delighted crowds in shows from Hamilton to Spring Awakening, but this time around he’s taking centerstage… and dancing through the aisles, up the stairs, and on the tables. The show is ostensibly a by-the-numbers musical biopic of ‘60s singing sensation Bobby Darin, but Groff’s performance magnificently elevates the material. He’s certainly bolstered by the immersive atmosphere; the theater has been transformed to emulate a ‘50s night club, and Groff obliges, crooning through standards not unlike the famed singer he embodies. The story is simple enough, charting Bobby Darin’s rise to fame and the twisty, shocking moments that make his life so fascinating to look back on. But the real magic of Just in Time is its ruminations on the power of music, and its dedication to delivering a show-stopping performance, worthy of the man it honors. 7. Stranger Things: The First Shadow - While the hunt for Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) may have just begun in the final season of Stranger Things, those who have seen the Netflix series’ stunning Broadway prequel, The First Shadow, already have an inkling of how Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and her friends can vanquish the villain once and for all. Set two decades earlier, the Kate Trefry-penned play feels like being yanked through your television screen and into the show as it chronicles superpowered outsider Henry Creel’s (the superb Louis McCartney) attempts to survive high school, as well as the sinister voices inside his head. His fight against the lure of the Upside Down is bolstered by strong performances from its talented cast, mindbending illusions, and some serious jump scares that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Are you still watching? Yes, we are! 6. Real Women Have Curves - It’s hard to imagine a musical more timely for 2025 than this piece — based on Josefina López’s 1990
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PAUL HAGER play and 2002 film of the same name — about Ana (Tatiana Córdoba), a teenage Latina struggling to chase her dreams while protecting her undocumented family. Justina Machado garnered a well-deserved supporting actress Tony nomination for her work as Ana’s mom, but this vibrant and devastating story was a true ensemble piece, mainly populated by the group of textile factory workers working on deadline as their community is terrorized by immigration enforcement raids. Though their pain is powerful, so is their hope — that mix of emotions most beautifully encapsulated on “If I Were a Bird,” featuring Aline Mayagoitia. Sadly, Real Women Have Curves barely got 100 performances before it closed, but thankfully Joy Huerta and Benjamin Velez’s Tony-nominated score lives on through the OBC recording. 5. Two Strangers Carry a Cake (Across New York) - Romantic comedies are usually beloved for their familiarity as opposed to originality — comfort food for the heart, if not the head. To that end, nothing in the musical Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) reinvents the genre, as it tells the tale of two opposites from opposite ends of the Atlantic Ocean making an unexpected love connection. But damn if it doesn’t make for a fun, engaging ride. Sam Tutty is a revelation as Energizer Bunny Dougal, who arrives from England to attend the wedding of the father he has never met. His joyous ode to New York (titled, yes, “New York”) — a city he only knows from movies like Home Alone 2 — is a strong contender for Broadway’s best new song of the year. It’s absolutely infectious. While Tutty oozes irresistible charm as Dougal, Christiani Pitts brings depth as the far more worldweary Robin, who has her own outsider status in connection to the upcoming wedding. You can probably guess where it’s all heading, but will enjoy every step of the way in getting there. 4. Ragtime - The tears start flowing in the Ragtime audience even before the opening number concludes. A celebration and condemnation of the United States at the turn of the last century (and, frankly, today), this revival of the 1998 Broadway hit is a sweeping ensemble piece led by the formidable Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, and Brandon Uranowitz. The historical fiction intertwines real Ragtime-era personalities (Harry Houdini, Evelyn Nesbit, Booker T. Washington) into the lives of a Black musician (Tony nominee Henry) starting a family, an affluent white mother (Olivier nominee Levy) adjusting to running her household while her husband is off on an Arctic adventure, and a Jewish immigrant (Tony winner Uranowitz) struggling to provide his daughter the American Dream. The rotating stage at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre provides a bit of spectacle to the epic production, but Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens’ winning score is really all the stellar cast needs to earn the multiple standing ovations they receive each performance. 3. John Proctor is the Villain - Sadie Sink and Amalia Yoo in ‘John Proctor is the Villain’.Julieta Cervantes - Arthur Miller’s The Crucible received a modern-day update courtesy of a group of badass, Lordeloving high schoolers in Kimberly Belflower’s unforgettable John Proctor is the Villain. A hilarious and deeply moving examination of girlhood, feminism, and the #MeToo movement, the knockout production followed a group of female friends who are studying Miller’s classic — which, in part, sees John Proctor have an affair with orphaned teen Abigail — just as a series of sexual assault scandals rock their rural Georgia
community. Packed with wonderful one-liners, heartbreaking twists, and unexpected pop culture references, John Proctor’s stellar cast — led by Sadie Sink — expertly showcased the uplifting power of female friendship. And, as it turns out, we’re not the only ones giving it the green light, either — Universal Pictures picked up the play’s film rights this year, too. 2. Purpose - How amazing were the performances in Purpose? Five of the six actors were nominated for Tonys. And the one person who was not nominated, Alana Arenas, actually gave the show’s best performance of all, IMHO, as the in-law who only wants out. But such success is what happens when you put superior material in the hands of superior actors, leading to the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, as well as the Tony awards for Best Play and Best Featured Actress (Kara Young). Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’s searing portrait of a famous Black family on the brink brought both laughs and gasps — especially around the dinner table — and managed to somehow do so without causing tonal whiplash from the comedic and dramatic back and forth. Particularly impressive was the way Jacobs-Jenkins’ script and Phylicia Rashad’s stellar direction gave every person on the stage their big moment without making it feel like an inevitable checklist of giving every person on the stage their big moment. The action (and dysfunction) just naturally flowed into a rich, organic portrait of a very flawed family. 1. Operation Mincemeat - Operation Mincemeat is an oddball of a musical. It takes an absurd (but very real) World War II factoid, spins it into a farcical drama, adds music, and invites you to watch. And the result is absolutely dazzling. With a ragtag cast of just five players (who somehow play over 80 roles between them), the show calls upon everything from Monty Python to Hamilton to Beyoncé to tell the tale of a ludicrous 1943 espionage plot. The result is a laugh-out-loud delight, with endless charm oozing off the stars, the characters, the songs, the set design, etc…. And even with all of its flippant humor, Mincemeat manages to land emotional gut punches left and right — walloping us with Jak Malone’s Hester, and eliciting gasps with its biting commentary on the rise of fascism (relevant!). Quick on its feet and generous with its humor, Mincemeat is a breath of fresh air offering complex storytelling, masterful musical sequences, thoughtful themes, and an absolutely bonkers plot. There’s nothing else like it on Broadway. And now, drumroll, please THE 3 WORST BROADWAY SHOWS OF 2025 The Queen of Versailles - Kristin Chenoweth in ‘The Queen of Versailles’.Julieta Cervantes - I still have no idea what this show is supposed to be, and I don’t think the people who brought it to Broadway do either. Is it a campy comedic sendup? A surface-level social commentary on income inequality? A dark family drama? A French historical farce? In trying to be all of these things, The Queen of Versailles ends up being almost as big a mess as all that construction on the stage, signaling the me-first dreams of impossible-to-root-for protagonist Jackie Siegel and her mission to build the biggest singlefamily residence in the country. Perhaps even more bewildering than the muddled story is that a repairing of Kristin Chenoweth and her Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz, could produce such underwhelming
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
57
PAUL HAGER THE GRAND 1894 OPERA HOUSE
musical results. We declare this entire show a teardown. Redwood - It’s been a tough year for the Wicked gals. It might be a little hard to remember, but months before Kristin Chenoweth made headlines for her own disappointing return to Broadway, Idina Menzel climbed a tree and sang some songs. On one thing, we can all agree: Menzel sounds stunning, whether she’s on the ground, in a tree, or in an icy castle just outside of Arendelle. But Redwood was not the best use of the Tony-winner’s talents. A show about overcoming grief and escaping to a place of beauty during a period of suffering, Redwood included at least three sequences of Menzel swinging around a tree trunk while belting a sub-par ballad that was indistinguishable from the ones that came before. It was borderline frightening when the show opened with “Drive,” a jagged peek into her character’s mind that was so uneven it seemed Menzel was struggling to keep up with the song. The show did manage to find its footing, but even when it was on track, Redwood didn’t have much to offer. The songs were forgettable, the story predictable, and the main character pretty grating. Redwood’s biggest offense is wasting its star power. But hey, at least audiences got to hear Idina sing. The Last Five Years - Any romantic musical two-hander is going to rely on the chemistry of its stars. When it works, as with Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) from our best list, it is magical. When it doesn’t, you get The Last Five Years. Lord knows the glorious Adrienne Warren tried, but there was simply no chemistry between her and woefully miscast on-stage partner Nick Jonas. Of course, the structure of one person (Jonas’ Jamie) telling the story of the doomed relationship chronologically from beginning to end, and the other (Warren’s Cathy) telling it in reverse, did the actors no favors. Nor did the often confusing direction that had the characters occasionally interacting, leading audiences to wonder whose timeline they were even following. In the end, you wished it were neither. So, which of these, if any, would you like to see produced by our local theatres or come through Galveston on a bus and truck tour? Personally, after reading the novel and seeing the star-studded 1981 miniseries, I’ve always wanted to see the musical version of RAGTIME!
ON THE BOARDS [Currently playing]
CIRQUE KALABANTÉ By Yamoussa Bangoura, inspired by daily life in Guinea January 16, 2026 - 8:00 PM GALVESTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA - POPS II: DANZAS Y SONIDOS January 18, 2026 - 4:00 PM THE CHOIR OF MAN Created by Nic Doodson and Andrew Kay January 24 -25, 2026 - 8:00 PM and 4:00 PM NEIL BERG’S 50 YEARS OF ROCK AND ROLL V January 31, 2026 - 8:00 PM http://www.thegrand.com/ BAYTOWN LITTLE THEATRE [BLT] THE SHADOW BOX By: Michael Cristofer January 30 - February 8, 2026 - 8:00 PM and 2:30 PM https://baytownlittletheater.org/
IN THE WINGS [Opening Soon] THE GRAND 1894 OPERA HOUSE THE WORLD FAMOUS GLENN MILLER ORCHESTRA February 20, 2026 - 7:00 PM GALVESTON SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA - MASTERWORKS III: HERITAGE & HEART February 22, 2026 - 4:00 PM PURPLE BOX THEATRE FOUR OLD BROADS ON THE HIGH SEAS By Leslie Kimbel February 20 - March 1, 2026 - Times TBA
ISLAND ETC [East-End Theatre Company] STANDING OVATION THEATRE THE NEW FURST HOTEL By Joanne Lopez Rock and Joyce Lopez Mink January 23 - January 31, 2026 - 8:00 PM (Sunday matinee January 25, 2026 - 2:30 PM https://www.islandetc.org/
THE EDUCATION OF ANGELS By Matt Carlin February 27 - March 8, 2026 - 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM
COM THEATRE [College of the Mainland Theatre] LEADER OF THE PACK Music and Lyrics by Ellie Greenwich and friends Book by Anne Beatts January 29 – February 15, 2026 - 8:00 PM and 2:00 PM https://www.com.edu/community-theatre/ 58
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Happy New Year! PAUL HAGER
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Texas
Music Profile Story and Photos by Zach Tate. Additional photos courtesy Sarah Saenz and Anna Clarke.
Anna Clarke
Seabrook, Texas, singer-songwriter Anna Clarke’s musical journey
began long before she was born. With two songwriter parents and the oldest of six kids from Wallkill, New York, Clarke was immersed in a house and church full of music growing up. Discovering the Mamas and The Papas while in high school, a popular 1960’s folk group that recorded 20 years before Clarke was born in 1987, deepened her love for vocal harmonies in music, perhaps further illustrating her inevitable destiny to become a singer-songwriter herself. Moving to the Austin area with her family in 2002, by 2008, Clarke had an undergraduate degree from the University of Houston’s Moores School of Music in flute, though she didn’t immediately gravitate to performing. Unsure of her future in music, Clarke eventually pursued a career in education, becoming an elementary school music teacher in 2014. Working at two different schools in the Friendswood and Seabrook areas, Clarke started performing locally with a ukulele in 2023, moving to guitar by the spring of 2024. “I was getting some gigs on ukulele. I think I was a little scared to start gigging on guitar. It was intimidating to jump in, so the ukulele was more of a stepping stone to guitar,” Clarke said. While essentially still learning to perform comfortably on guitar, Clarke’s life was side-tracked by a condition known as trigeminal neuralgia (chronic pain usually on one side of the face), eventually requiring brain surgery in November of 2025. Overcoming challenges associated with the condition and eventual surgery, Clarke says she is gratefully back to performing and writing. Performing for the past 2 years in the Galveston area at places like Huli Huli Hut, McNeal’s, Indie’s Coffee, and Lucky Lounge with her self-described country-folk sound, Clarke is fast becoming a recognizable name. Though mostly working as a solo artist (including on Culture Clash Magazine’s In The Kitchen series seen on YouTube), she recently teamed up with local multi-instrumentalist Ruth Dolan to form a duo called 2NonBlondes. Playing their first show together on Lone Star Rally’s “Locals Stage” in November of 2025 and trading lead singing duties is taking Clarke back to her love of vocal harmonies, she said. As many Galvestonians and visitors claim, the island is a “magical place” and has proven to be that for Clarke as well. “Galveston is a special place. I met my now fiancé when he was residing in Galveston last year. I was just in my first full year of gigging on guitar when we met. We spent almost all of our weekends together there. I loved going out and supporting all of the local businesses, wonderful food, live music, and just enjoying everything that makes Galveston what it is. To get to know someone and fall in love with them in a magical kind of setting like that is so special. It even 60
Waves Magazine | January 2026
inspired some of the songs I have written,” Clarke said. While raising two kids and working full-time, Clarke says she hopes to continue to perform 6 to 8 times per month in the Galveston area and beyond in 2026, both solo and with 2Non Blondes. Anna Clarke will be performing solo at McNeal’s in Galveston on Jan. 2nd and at Huli Huli Hut on Jan. 3rd. 2NonBlondes will be performing at Shot Bar in Kemah on Jan. 30th and on Feb. 22nd at Rob Ray’s Taproom in Pearland.
Q&A with Anna Clarke Zach Tate: How do you describe yourself as a musician? Anna Clarke: The only way I’ve been able to best describe myself is as having a folk-pop sound. I have a wide variety of musical interests, so it has been hard for me to pinpoint exactly how to describe what I sound like. My sound over time has started to lean more towards a country/folk vibe. My original music stems from real-life experiences. It combines my own deep thoughts tied into bigger ideas that create an honest “heart-on-sleeve” rhetoric with elements of storytelling. ZT: Why do you play/write/perform music? AC: I play music because I love it. I write music because I feel like it’s the best way to express myself and my feelings. Writing music feels like a puzzle piece. It’s like a challenge of words, feelings, and musicianship that somehow line up when you put them just right. It creates something beautiful that’s just yours. I perform my music to speak to others - to encourage expression of what you believe your true self to be. I want others to feel the light that I’ve followed to get me where I am in my self-journey today. It’s something that’s already inside of us, our own truth that speaks when we face it.
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I think good music is something people can relate to. Something, even one line, can draw someone in and have them self-reflecting. Maybe other’s music can inspire us to have a voice of our own. ZT: Do you have any formal music training? AC: I grew up in a very musical family, but I started formal lessons on flute when I was in 4th grade. I attended the University of Houston Moores School of Music for my undergraduate degree in flute. On guitar, I have no formal training. I picked it up when I was 12 and just dabbled here and there until the last 2 years, when I’ve been able to focus more on it. ZT: What is your earliest memory of being inspired by music? AC: Both of my parents are also singer-songwriters who play guitar, so music was the norm in my household. I grew up keeping journals and writing poems a lot. I did start writing songs here and there as I started to learn guitar in middle school, but nothing I can really remember. ZT: What artists did you love growing up and why? AC: I grew up in a strict religious family, so I was very limited as to what I was allowed to listen to. By the time I was in high school, I was able to choose more on my own. Jewel’s Pieces of You and The Mamas and the Papas Greatest Hits albums must have played hundreds of times on my CD Walkman. I love how Jewel also wears her heart on her sleeve in songwriting. The Mamas and the Papas were so precious to me. I think because of their harmony stacking. I would sit for hours and just sing the harmony parts and imagine I was a singer in their band. ZT: Where was the first place you ever performed in front of people? AC: I have been performing my whole life. Church as a kid would be the first place, probably either singing with my family or playing the flute. ZT: Who influences you these days and why? AC: These days, I am listening to a wide variety of artists and styles. I really love Neo Soul, 90s, folk, country, and so much more. My favorite playlists are a large variety, and I love that. ZT: What defines ‘good music’ in your opinion? AC: I think good music is something people can relate to. Something, even one line, can draw someone in and have them self-reflecting. Maybe other’s music can inspire us to have a voice of our own. ZT: What is your songwriting process? AC: I usually start thinking about a phrase I heard or thought of, like a very short phrase or idea. It rolls around in the back of my mind for days or weeks, and then somehow I start writing down lyrics out of it. Crazy how something so small can spark something bigger. A short phrase I hear a friend say, or even one I hear on TV, just gets me thinking deeply about what that really means to me. One time, I wrote a whole song off of a 4-word phrase that was written on a drink cup by the employees that made my order. Inspiration is everywhere. You just never know how much you can inspire others in day-to-day life, songwriter or not. ZT: What is your opinion of AI-developed songs? AC: I hope that the public can purposely support and focus on real artists, people, and souls that are meant to share their truth over AI.
ZT: How do you define success as would relate to being a musician? AC: Personally, I define my own success in being a musician as being the person I’m meant to be. I love music and creating, so if I’m not doing that, then I’m not being true to myself. I was not always able to be someone who shared their own thoughts and creations, or even perform music if I wanted to. I lived in some very controlled spaces for most of my life. Music and sharing my opinions through songwriting have been something that has helped to set me free. I consider myself successful because of my journey. Success is such a relative term, though. If you had told me 2 or 3 years ago that I would be performing and writing songs the way I am now, I would have been floored. Except now, I feel like I’m just still starting. Success is an ever-changing goal post. ZT: What is your opinion of the Galveston (and/or Houston) music scenes? AC: Galveston is vibrant, supportive, and fun. Galveston has given me so many opportunities to share my music. I have met so many amazing people in the Galveston music community. I hope it continues to grow and shine. ZT: What is your musical goal for 2026? AC: My musical goal for 2026 is to play as much as I can, sing more harmony, write more songs, and grow musically in the way that I am meant to, whatever that may mean for me. I would also like to record some of my songs. ZT: Where is the best place for people to find out where you’re playing next? AC: Facebook & Instagram. Here is my link tree that includes those links:
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https://linktr.ee/annaclarkemusic
Zach Tate
Waves Magazine | January 2026
61
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The
Experienced Fishing Advice To Make Fishing Great Again
Serious Tackle Box With Chris Gonzales
S e ri o u s B re a k a w a y Deep Shot The Serious Breakaway Deep Shot — it’s my variation of the drop shot rig used in bass fishing. Differences in my version are: Upping
Serious Breakaway Deep Shot
the size of the mono and hook, plus how the hook is attached to the mono and how the drop shot effect is implemented. “Breakaway” refers to the 40# mono loop connecting the bottom of the mono leader to the weight. The primary benefit is breaking when hung in structure, like the drop shot rig. The standard knot used in drop shot rigs, the Palomar, is difficult to tie in heavy mono. My solution is to crimp it. Materials needed for one of these deep water big fish rigs are 10 ft. of 300# mono, double barrel crimps, Spro TM Power Swivels, 2/0 — 550#, a circle hook such as an Eagle Claw L2045R size 18/0 and a bottle of liquid Super Glue TM. To build my crimped-at-the-hook version, start by tightly bending 180 degrees, the 10 ft. length of 300# mono at 6 ft. from what will be the top end. Thread your circle hook on the mono, going through the eye twice, stopping at the “bent” mono marker. The bend side of the hook must be toward the 6’ end up. Now slide a double crimp onto both ends of the mono. Push the double barrel sleeve as close to the mono as you can, making sure that the wraps of the twice through the hook’s eye aren’t crossed. For crimping...make about an 18” tied loop with a piece of heavy cord; loop the cord over the hook bend and then around your left shoe bottom. Loop both strands of mono around your left hand several times, place the crimp tool on the crimp; pull hard on the double mono to tighten the mono turns on the hook’s eye. With a firm, but not hard enough pressure to start the crimp to close, push the sleeve a bit farther toward the hook eye. With the crimp as close to the hook’s eye as you can get and with max pull tension on both strands of mono, crimp tight; starting at the end of the crimp away from the 64
Waves Magazine | January 2026
hook’s eye. Finish the crimping, working your way toward the hook’s eye. This tightening procedure “walks” the pressure toward the hook’s eye, giving a tighter double loop. The next steps are to form and crimp an eye on the top and bottom of the mono with one of the swivels in each one. The purpose of the swivel above the breakaway loop is to prevent breakage of the mono when multiple weights are used to get to the desired depth. They will spin without the swivel and the 40# mono will twist and break, stopping your drop.
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At times the 300# mono isn’t tight enough at the hook eye. The
ing power. This combination places immediate pressure on a big
solution that holds the circle hook 90 degrees from the vertical
bottom fish such as a grouper—all important factors.
section of mono is to carefully secure it in that position with liquid Super Glue TM. To get this done, rotate your hook about 45 degrees
Rod tip twitches will almost make your bait come alive. With a strip
out of position; carefully apply a small amount of the glue to the
bait particularly, those twitches plus possibly small fish eating on
area of the wraps at the eye. Quickly rotate back, stopping at the
it, will send a scent cone down current that will call the big one in.
desired 90 degrees from vertical. Wipe away excess glue.
Hang on for that deep rod bowing strike when your Serious Breakaway Deep Shot rig has done its job.
That 5 ft. length of mono above the hook is for abrasion resistance. A hooked big grouper’s first move is to try to reach a hole of some sort to get into. That 5 ft. of heavy mono will possibly save a cutoff. Torpedo sinkers, whichever size you need to use, from 12 oz. to 24 oz., will less frequently become hung in bottom structure than other types. This vertical fishing brings up the importance of Spectra for
If you have any questions, stop by Serious Tackle or email me at chris@ seriou stackle.com Chris Gonzales Owner - Serious Tackle
your main line. Its high strength for its small diameter allows you to load more line on your reel and gets to deep bottom with less sinker weight. It’s much less affected by the current that’s trying to push it off vertical. Spectra’s main performance factor is its lack of stretch, which gives a greater feel for what’s going on at your bait, plus increased hook-
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67
T h e
Beach Bum Happy New Year, Wavers - It’s 2026, and your Bum is looking forward to a great year ahead. One thing about the beginning of a new year is that we are all filled with optimism. Everything is going to be better than the year before. We are all going to eat healthier, exercise, and lose weight. We will become lean, mean, fighting machines. This is the year we will find true love and begin a new, wonderful relationship. I had a thought about all of this the other day while I was out riding around in my ol’ scarab. It’s not like me to have many thoughts in a day, but here is what had me thinking... There are many festivities, events, and parties centered around the beginning of a new year. The perfect opportunity to meet someone new. But what if you didn’t meet anyone? What if you struck out? What if you are too bashful and nervous to approach someone? Even with a little liquid courage, some people just aren’t good at meeting others. Have no fear, Wavers. Your Bum is here for you! I have listed some perfect icebreakers that you can use in various situations. Here are some guaranteed gems for you. You can thank me later...
•
Are you a parking ticket? Cause you got fine written all over
•
you. •
Do you have a Band-Aid? Cause I scraped my knee falling for you
If I said you had a beautiful body, would you hold it against
•
me?
Can you touch my hand? I want to tell my friends I’ve been touched by an angel.
I’m glad I brought my library card. Cause I’m totally checking
•
Hey, girl. Is your name Wi-Fi? Because we have a connection.
you out.
•
OK, I’m here. What do you want for your next wish?
•
Kiss me if I’m wrong, dinosaurs still exist, right?
•
Do you believe in love at first sight? Or should I walk past you
•
You must be Lucky Charms because you look magically
•
•
again?
delicious.
•
Are you a campfire? Cause you’re hot and I want s’more.
Is your name Google? Because you have everything I’ve been
•
I hope you know CPR... Because you are taking my breath
searching for.
away.
Have mo r e? L e t us know at www.wavesgalveston.com 68
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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69
PET PEEVES
Of The Month
The Great American Clean Public Restroom Safari
Why Does Finding A Clean Public Bathroom Feel Like Tracking An Endangered Species?
There are many universal life experiences - paying taxes, falling in love (hopefully) going to school, growing old, etc. None of these unite us quite like the desperate hunt for a clean public
Do we like it when we enter a public restroom and find it in a filthy, deplorable condition, with no paper towels or toilet tissue to be found?
restroom. It’s a journey that tests character, courage, and bladder
NO! WE DON’T LIKE THAT!
control.
We’ve all been there: wandering through a mall, airport, gas station, or convenience store with the determined shuffle of someone who has exactly one mission. And yet, despite living in an age where we can summon groceries with a tap of our phone, track our pets via satellite, finding a restroom that doesn’t
Clean restrooms don’t just happen. They require effort, attention, and a business owner that cares enough about their customers to provide clean, accessible restroom facilities. Let’s support the ones who do.
resemble a crime scene remains one of life’s great challenges.
On top of finding a clean restroom, there is still another challenge. Will there be any toilet paper in the restroom? Will it be a single-ply that we can actually see through? We spin the wheel of fate and hope for the best.
Many restrooms proudly display a laminated sign declaring their restrooms are “clean.” Some even have a check list of the time it was done with the person’s name that last serviced it. We can’t really tell the last time “Biff” cleaned the restroom because the clean date is written in roman numerals. Yes, it’s been that long ago, and reading roman numerals is a skill we forgot right after grade school.
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HOME & G AR D EN
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) Chamomile is one of those little herbs that looks so dainty with its yellow center surrounded by white petals, just a happy little herb with a wonderful apple-like scent.
However, chamomile is a tough little herb that likes the cool temperatures of spring and early summer. When the plant germinates from seed, which it does easily, you will see stems and leaves that look a lot like fern prawns. These leafy green parts are soon topped with the daisy-like blooms that will continue for
Sometimes chamomile has trouble with fungus, but spraying
all of its life span.
the entire plant with a baking soda mixture will keep the fungus away. Simply mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 1 gallon of
To harvest, simply cut off the blooms once they have opened.
water and apply with a spray bottle.
The plant will get busy making more blooms and the more you harvest, the bigger and bushier the plant will get. Use a tray with a screened bottom to dry the flower heads and these are ready to be used for teas, tinctures, and other wonderful applications. The flowers and tender stems can also be used fresh for chamomile tea.
Chamomile likes at least 6 hours of sunlight but can tolerate shade in hot climates. A hard freeze will kill the plants, but a light freeze or frost will not harm the plant. Sow seeds indoors in
~Holly Ross
late winter. Roman chamomile is a perennial and German Chamomile will self-seed so you will notice little chamomile babies where your chamomile was planted the summer before. Water moderately.
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For more great information, go to: www.hollykross.com
R
eflections by: John & Kathy Valastro
Reflection: 2026 This Year: My Best Or My Bust
Now that 2026 is here, do you look forward to the new year as a fresh start—a gift, a challenge embraced with renewed gusto (my best)? Or do you see it as merely a continuation of the past, filled with regret, disappointment, and the sense that this is my life and it won’t get any better (my bust)? Well, Islanders, it’s time to take my challenge for 2026. I call this reflection “My Best or My Bust.” It goes something like this: Every Islander, even though we share similarities in our likes and dislikes—our food, favorite events, bars, music, and even our politics—is still an individual living a life uniquely their own. Today, I want you to take some time to reflect on 2025 (no more than 20 minutes) and acknowledge the good, the bad, and the indifferent. Then, lock it away in a mental file and refuse to dwell on it. Now let’s think about 2026. That was quick, because we’re only a few days into the new year, and hopefully not too much has happened yet. If that’s the case, we can start with a clean slate. My challenge is this: let’s make 2026 our best. What does that mean for each of us individually? Here are a few areas where I believe we can all strive to do better in 2026: Health: Improve your health in a way that fits your age and current condition. Remember to take baby steps if you’re new to fitness or changes in diet. Finances: Let’s improve our buying power and financial safety net by reducing credit card debt and setting aside money for a rainy day. Vacation: If you’ve always wanted to take a vacation but find ways to back out due to money or work, make this the year you plan it and just do it. Start small with long weekend trips to the Hill Country, like Fredericksburg, or hop over to New Orleans, Branson, or even a five-day cruise out of Galveston. Or maybe you bite the bullet and take that weeklong trip to a place you’ve only dreamed about. Relationships: Improve the one you’re in, find someone new, or reach out to family members you may have disagreements with. Take it from me—after 30 years, sometimes it’s time to let things go. We can forgive, though we may never forget the hurt. As we get older, there’s a real chance we could lose the opportunity to reconnect.
Old Acquaintances: It might be fun to contact an old buddy from high school, college, or military service. We all get busy, but the stories and memories come alive and can be quite fun to revisit. De-Clutter: We all talk about it, but rarely pull the trigger. Make this the year you take the first step to remove things you haven’t touched in years. For me, there’s “stuff” I’ve carried around for 30 years! Psychological / Spiritual: While I want to work on all the areas above, my personal focus is on well-being and devotional life. I want to turn the things I can’t control over to my Heavenly Father, who knows my deepest feelings and struggles. The Serenity Prayer—to accept what cannot be changed, courage to change what can be changed, and wisdom to know the difference—is a guide for daily living, reminding us to focus on what is within our control. A Special Shout-Out! I’d like to take this time to say a special thank you to Michael Burke, Christopher Bergeron, and the crew who bring us Waves Magazine. If you want to know what’s going on, pick up a copy, visit www.wavesmagazine.com, or follow Waves on Facebook. You’ll have access to everything happening all year long. We Islanders have so much to be thankful for. My hope is that each of you chooses to be the best of yourself instead of a bust as we look forward to the new year. “We count our blessings, we’re thankful for our Island friends, and we continue to love our Galveston Island.”
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John and Kathy Valastro Waves Magazine | January 2026
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Upcycled
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with 27 miles of drivable sandy shoreline •
family-friendly events
Sunrise-to-sunset outdoor fun: fishing, swimming,
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beach combing, boating, and exploring historic sites •
Fresh seafood restaurants with live music for casual waterfront dining
Wide selection of beach rental homes offering easy access to both beach and bay
•
Complimentary ferry ride from Galveston and just a short drive away
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Phone 409-684-5940
Charming boutiques, lively festivals, and plenty of
1750 Hwy 87 / PO Box 1170
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Answers from page 20
1. Kim Basinger
11. Demi Moore (and Bruce
19. Melanie Griffiths
2. Brooke Shields
Willis)
20. Michelle Pfeiffer
3. MC Hammer
12. Cyndi Lauper
21. Anjelica Huston
4. George Michael
13. Madonna
22. Olivia Newton John
5.Prince
14. Eddie Murphy
23. Lisa Bonet
6. Farrah Fawcett
15. Don Johnson and Philip
24.Princess Diana
7. Mick Jagger
Thomas
25. Jane Fonda
8. Diana Ross
16. Joan Collins
26.Molly Ringwald
9. Faye Dunaway
17. Cheryl Tiegs
27.David Bowie
10. Blondie
18. Cher
28. Bill Cosby
rivia hallenge
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Cookin’ Column Happy New Year, Everyone!
I am officially declaring January as Bunny’s month of recovery — the great culinary cooldown. After countless holiday weeks of roasting, basting, baking, chopping, stirring, and smiling through it all, I am hanging up my apron and reaching for something far more relaxing: a glass. This month, Bunny is sharing a handful of easy, breezy adult beverages. Both of these were from friends and are definitely tried and true. Both include a warm hug and a wish from Bunny that you will enjoy them as much as I do.
So here’s to a slower sip, a gentler pace, and a reminder that joy doesn’t always come from the kitchen chaos - sometimes it comes from a simple drink shared with someone you love.
B ob’s Co s mopol i t a n Good ole Bob from Minnesota. He’s the one that gave you that fantastic Bloody Mary recipe. He and his wife make a pitcher of this at a time, not just individual servings.
In g r e d ie n ts •
2 cups Vodka (use Grey Goose if the budget allows)
•
1 cup Contreau
•
1 cup cranberry juice
•
½ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
Dir e c tio n s In a large pitcher, add all the above ingredients. Fill a shaker half full with ice. Pour the drink mixture over ice to the top of the shaker. Shake for 20-30 seconds, till the shaker feels cold to the hands. Pour into a martini glass. If any is left, refrigerate. 76
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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Bob’s Cosmopolitan
D o r i s ’ A ma r et t o S pr i tzer It’s just downright tasty and refreshing on a spring or summer day. This is so easy and good.
In g r e d ie n ts •
1 shot glass of Amaretto
•
Add club soda to taste
Dir e c tio n s Fill a drink glass with ice. Add the Amaretto and top off with club soda. Stir.
Doris’ Amaretto Spritzer
B ar b ’s B r andy A l e x ander This one is made with ice cream and is an excellent after-dinner drink.
In g r e d ie n ts •
½ cup of Vanilla ice cream
•
1 ½ ounces Brandy
•
3/4 ounce of white crème de cacao
Dir e c tio n s Mix the ingredients in a blender, and blend till smooth. Serve immediately in a martini or margarita glass.
Well, there you have it. Hope you enjoy each and every one of these. Bottoms up!!
Barb’s Brandy Alexander
www.wavesgalveston.com
Happy Trails, Bunny
Waves Magazine | January 2026
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Waves Magazine Announces Launch of “Waves On Air” Podcast Galveston, TX — Waves Magazine,
Waves On Air will be available in both video and audio formats,
Galveston’s trusted source for
making it accessible to audiences wherever they prefer to watch
entertainment, dining, lifestyle, and
or listen.
local culture, proudly announces the launch of its new weekly multimedia podcast, Waves On Air, hosted by publisher Mike
Full video episodes will stream on:
Burke.
YouTube - Facebook - LinkedIn - Instagram - X - Twitch
Launching February 2026, Waves On Air expands the magazine’s
Audio‑only episodes will be available on:
mission by bringing Galveston’s stories to life through long‑form
Spotify and Apple Podcasts
conversations, on‑location features, and behind‑the‑scenes insights from the island’s most influential and interesting voices.
The podcast also introduces new opportunities for local business sponsorships, cross‑promotion, and community partnerships.
Each episode will spotlight Galveston business owners, chefs,
Businesses featured in the show will receive additional visibility
musicians, artists, nonprofit leaders, innovators, and community
through Waves Magazine’s print, digital, and social platforms.
personalities, offering listeners a deeper look at the people shaping the island’s identity. From restaurant success stories and
“Galveston is full of incredible stories waiting to be told,”
creative journeys to local history, hidden gems, and upcoming
Burke added. “Our goal is to uplift local voices, support small
events, Waves On Air aims to become a central hub for authentic
businesses, and give residents and visitors a deeper connection
island storytelling.
to the island we all love.”
“For eight years, Waves Magazine has celebrated the heartbeat
For updates, episode releases, and behind‑the‑scenes content, visit:
of Galveston,” said Mike Burke, publisher and host of Waves On Air. “This podcast allows us to go even further — to sit down with
www.wavesgalveston.com/podcast www.galvestoncountybusinessdirectory.com/podcast
the people behind the stories, hear their voices, and share the Media Contact:
passion that makes this island unlike anywhere else.”
Waves Magazine The podcast will feature a mix of interviews, community spotlights, local business features, and special themed episodes tied to seasonal events, festivals, and cultural moments across Galveston County.
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Waves Magazine | January 2026
cbergeron@wavesgalveston.com Advertising Contact: Waves Magazine mburke@wavesgalveston.com
www.wavesgalveston.com
B EG I N N I N G I N F E B RUA RY
www.wavesgalveston.com/podcast
Hosted by: Mike Burke
A Multimedia Experience Available Across All Major Platforms
www.wavesgalveston.com
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