• Fresh seafood restaurants with live music for casual waterfront dining
bpcoc@discoverbolivar.com
• Charming boutiques, lively festivals, and plenty of family-friendly events
• 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
Waves
Box 3343 | Galveston , TX 77552
P: 409-789-1160
www.wavesgalveston.com
Publisher | Editor Sales Director
Mike Burke mburke@wavesgalveston.com 409-789-1160
Director Of Operations
Tiffany Bergeron tbergeron@wavesgalveston.com
Executive Creative Director
Christopher Bergeron cbergeron@wavesgalveston.com
Contributors
Richard Henderson, D.V.M.
J.A. Bunny
Jan & Dean
Chris Gonzales
Tom
Paul Hager
Bob Rohan
Mike Burke|Publisher
BURKE’S BRIEFS
February 2026
Happy February, Wavers!
It’s time for Mardi Gras — one of my favorite events of the year. Great food, live music, vibrant costumes, and electric parades fill the island with an all-around good vibe.
February is also the month for Valentine’s Day, so don’t forget your special someone. Galveston is one of the best places on the planet to celebrate, and it’s a perfect time to support our local businesses.
We have a real treat for all you foodies this month. Our resident Waves Food Editor, Rockstar Tom Valliere, has launched a new feature. Each month, we’ll showcase a top recipe from one of Galveston’s best restaurants. It kicks off with a delicious recipe from Brett Otteman of Katie’s Seafood House. Check it out on page 48— it’s a good one.
Also, remember that the Waves On Air podcast launches this month. Visit the Waves Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ wavesmagazinegalveston, give us a “like,” and you’ll be notified when the first episode drops, along with the many platforms where the podcast will be available.
Subscriptions
As always, support our local businesses, enjoy Mardi Gras, and celebrate Valentine’s Day in true island style.
See you around the island! Laissez les bons temps rouler!
PET Corner
Galveston’s Winter Bird Watching Trifecta
While many birds have flown south for the winter, there are great bird-watching opportunities around the island in February. It is hard to miss the brown pelicans and seagulls gliding over the Causeway onto the island. But there are three bird species wintering here that will take a little work to mark off your birding checklist.
Ospreys , fish-eating members of the hawk family, can often be seen perching on light poles along 61st Street as you cross over Offatts Bayou. The light poles offer them a clear vantage point of the surrounding water to spot fish near the surface. They spend the entire winter here in town and use the shallow bays and barrier islands as hunting grounds. Their favorite targets are flounder, mullet, and menhaden that they grab out of the water while in full flight. They take their catch to the top of their favorite perch to enjoy their seafood supper. Ospreys have a specially designed reversed outer toe and laser-sharp vision that enables them to snare their prey in the water with deadly accuracy. Some ospreys we see perched on the same light poles every year are birds that have been migrating here for over a decade.
Heading west on Stewart Road from town offers an opportunity to see the next two species. On the north side of Stewart near 85th Street is a large, fenced area that is part of the Scholes Airport property. On most days, ten to thirty Sandhill Cranes can be seen grazing in the grass. The cranes are the second-largest bird species in the state, only surpassed by the whooping crane. They can be recognized by their red markings on their heads and their distinctive, primitive call. Just to hear their call is worth the trip out to see them.
Pet Care Advice From Richard D. Henderson, DVM
Sandhills prefer to sleep standing in shallow water. Should a predator enter the water near them, they can detect the ripple and take flight. This is an amazing adaptation that allows them to be safe in open, treeless fields. An estimated 500,000 cranes winter in Texas, feeding on grains and seeds in grassy fields and idle farmland. Dormant rice fields are one of their favorite places to spend their time feeding. The island is host to approximately 200 cranes, most of which are spread out in grassy pastures on our west end. They will head back north by the end of February to mate and raise their chicks, even as far away as Canada.
After checking out the Sandhills, head another two miles west on Stewart Road to 8 Mile Road. There are estuaries on both sides of the road. Spotting our third species is a bit more hit - or - miss, but with a little luck, you may see a few Roseate Spoonbills . These candy cane-colored gems are an iconic species on the island, often referred to as Galveston Flamingos. They do appear similar to flamingos, but are in the ibis family. They wade in shallow lagoons, sweeping their bills back and forth in the muddy water. They can detect shrimp, crabs, and small crustaceans, snapping them up when they bump into one.
Sandhill Crane Roseate Spoonbill
Osprey
Their beautiful color comes from the carotenoid pigments in their prey. Without these pigments, they would gradually fade to a dull white color. Along with rosettes, you are likely to see several species of ducks floating in the shallow water and wintering birds of prey perched on the top of light poles.
Red-tailed hawks, Cooper’s hawks, and Caracaras all hang out along Stewart Road heading west from 7 Mile Road. Sighting any of these species is a bird watcher’s bonus to add to their birder’s journal.
Tourists are attracted to Galveston to see our beaches, Moody Gardens, and the Strand. For those a bit more adventurous, a side trip out west, past the Seawall, offers a chance to see some unexpected, feathered friends.
Red-Tailed Hawk
Cooper’s Hawk Caracaras
Four Galveston College players commit to play NCAA DI baseball next fall
A quartet of Galveston College baseball players will join the NCAA Division I ranks next year after they complete their second season with the Whitecaps this coming spring.
Whitecaps outfielder and Ball High School standout, Seth Williams, right-handed pitchers James Janak and Lucas Moore, along with lefty Bennett Springer have committed to play DI baseball at West Virginia University, Texas State University, University of New Mexico and University of Houston, respectively.
“I’m proud of what these players have accomplished in the short time they have been with us in the Galveston College Baseball program,” said GC Head Baseball Coach, Ryne Edmondson. “They are a talented group of baseball players and good students who have performed well on and off the field. I’m excited for them to continue their baseball careers at the DI level next fall. We’re also looking forward to helping them to continue honing their skills and contributing to our team this upcoming spring.”
Born and raised in Galveston, Williams grew
up with his younger brother Jonah, both coached by their father, Billy Williams. The Whitecaps outfielder looked up to his older brother Nick, a multi-sport athlete at Ball High School, who he emulated.
Williams, who also was a multi-sport athlete at Ball High, played baseball, football, basketball and ran track. He also excelled academically.
“After high school, I made the decision to play at Galveston College because I believed it was the best fit for me, and for my educational/sports career,” said Williams. “It means a lot to me to be able to continue to glorify God through the sport I play by receiving a scholarship to continue my education and baseball career at West Virginia University. GC baseball has taught me many things, but one thing that will stick with me for a long time will be to fight to maintain mental and physical toughness through the highs and the lows, continuing to work diligently and resiliently.”
Janak, a product of Columbus High School, wasn’t always a pitcher, but he always wanted to be a baseball player. He became a right-handed hurler his sophomore year of
high school and hasn’t looked back. Next fall, he’ll be playing at Texas State.
“I have nothing but gratitude and thankfulness to the Lord above for giving me an opportunity like this and allowing me to play the game and have fun doing so,” said Janak. “The Galveston College coaching staff and team have done so much for me in such a short amount of time, and the program feels more like a family than anything. Everything we do makes us better and gives us that competitive mindset. I have developed mentally and physically since becoming a Whitecap, and I am excited for what this spring has in store for us.”
Moore, a Katy High School standout, recovered from two injuries to earn an opportunity to continue his baseball career at the DI level at UNM.
“Galveston College’s baseball program has helped me get to this point by giving me an opportunity to redefine my career in baseball after two injuries,” said Moore. “Galveston’s coaching staff has put me in a position to be seen by Division I coaches throughout the fall season, which ultimately led to me getting an offer and deciding to continue my baseball career at UNM this spring.”
The Whitecaps baseball team plays home games at Bernard Davis Field, located at 81st Street and Frank Guisti Drive in Galveston. Games are free and open to the public.
For the latest GC Whitecaps game schedules, infomation, and rosters, visit www.gcwhitecaps.com.
Galveston College Whitecaps players Seth Williams, Bennet Springer, Lucas Moore, and James Janak.
Re l ati o nshipAd v ic e with Jan & Dean
Hi Jan & Dean,
Last year on Valentine’s Day, I experienced one of the happiest moments of my life. My boyfriend took me to a romantic dinner at a five - star restaurant. During our meal, we made a champagne toast — and at the bottom of my glass was a beautiful engagement ring. He got down on one knee and proposed right there. I was breathless, and I couldn’t wait to say YES. The entire restaurant gave us a standing ovation. I was overwhelmed with joy.
For months afterward, getting married was all we talked about. We were both so excited. Then, suddenly, my boyfriend — now fiancé — stopped mentioning it altogether. He hasn’t said a single word about the wedding in several months. I still wear my ring and consider us engaged, even though he never brings it up anymore.
Recently, I think I discovered why. Through mutual friends, I learned that my fiancé’s mother threw a fit when she found out he proposed. She has never liked me, and I’ve been told she demanded that he not marry me.
I am heartbroken. I love my fiancé deeply, and I believe he still loves me. What should I do, Jan and Dean? Should I confront him with what I’ve heard? Should I ask if this is why we no longer discuss our engagement? I really need your help.
Hannah Is Heartbroken
Hello Hannah. All I can say is this: run — don’t walk — to the nearest exit. I can’t tell you how many letters we receive involving a snarky soon - to - be or current mother - in - law. Let’s face it: your guy is a mama’s boy.
Regardless of whether your sources are accurate, you need to sit down with your fiancé and get straight to the point. You may find that he’s simply gotten cold feet and that his mother has nothing to do with it — that the “mother issue” is just a rumor.
Listen to your brain, not your heart, when he explains himself. Make him talk. Get the truth — the whole truth. He owes you that.
Honesty and communication are essential in any relationship or marriage. If he won’t open up, then please walk away. There are plenty of good men out there who aren’t mama’s boys and who have the courage to end a relationship respectfully if they no longer want it. You deserve better, Hannah. Good luck.
Hi Hannah. It certainly seems like we get our fair share of mama’s - boy situations, but in this case, I’m not convinced that’s what’s going on. To me, it sounds more like he might be getting cold feet.
Of course, it could be both. My approach to life is simple: take the direct route. No side roads, no detours. Just ask him outright what’s going on. No beating around the bush.
Ask him plainly why he no longer talks about your wedding plans. Ask why the engagement has gone silent. Expect an honest answer.
Tell him that if he no longer wants to marry you, he needs to have the backbone to say so. Yes, it would hurt — but at least you would know where you stand. As always, honesty is the best policy. I hope things work out for you.
Have a question for Jan & Dean? Go to www.wavesgalveston.com & ask away. You just might have your question answered next month.
C hallenge T rivia Answer Reveal
Small Towns Of Texas WAVES
How Well Do You Know The Small Towns Of Texas?
Marfa isn’t much more than a map dot. What has folks flocking here for over a century?
A. Aliens
B. Lights
C. Gold mines
D. Caves
What Texas town is home to the Texas White House, and also happens to be the hometown of the 36th U.S. President?
A. Johnson City
B. Lincoln City
C. Kennedy City
D. Ford City
mining hub, now hosts an annual chili cookoff?
A. Silver Dollar City
B. Terlingua
C. Killington
D. Bodie
13-mile loop draws visitors to this Gillespie County town in Texas Hill Country to see fields of bluebonnets each spring.
A. Wichita Falls
B. Willow City
C. McAllen
D. Rockport
For more than a century, Dublin, Texas was known as one of the few U.S. sources for this product. What is it?
A. Pumpkin beer
B. Potato donuts
C. Electric cars
D. Dr. Pepper with real sugar
Tell us the main export of Shiner down in the southeastern part of the state.
A. Beer
B. Pineapples
C. Chickens
D. Computer chips
Charro Days is a major festival down in southern Texas. Which town plays host to the crowds for this event?
A. Brownsville
B. Galveston
C. Amarillo
D. Lubbock
Which town should you visit to tube on the Medina River or tour the Frontier Times Museum?
A. Bandera
B. Fredericksburg
C. Armstrong
D. San Marcos
Consider yourself a shopaholic? Don’t miss this Texas town, which is known for its mega-sized antiques fair.
A. Tyler
B. Round Top
C. San Marcos
D. Galveston
Influenced by the culture of its German founders, which Texas town is also the birthplace of Navy legend Chester Nimitz?
A. Fredericksburg
B. Marfa
C. Canyon
D. Ervine
Can you name the Texas town that shot to fame thanks to a 1977 Waylon Jennings song?
A. Canyon
B. Port Isabel
C. Luckenbach
D. Kemah
Do you know which of these towns sits along Highway 290 between Houston and Austin?
A. Brownsville
B. Laredo
C. Archer City
D. Chappell Hill
Want to see the roadside stop known as Cadillac Ranch? It’s located just to the west of this town in the Texas panhandle.
A. Austin
B. Lubbock
C. Gruene
D. Amarillo
Which of these ranks among the not-to-be-missed attractions on a visit to Schulenburg down in Texas Hill Country?
A. Massive antique festival
B. Corn palace
C. Painted churches
D. Wild horse preserve
This town calls itself “The Gateway City” because of its four major bridges to Mexico. Can you name it?
A. Abilene
B. Odessa
C. Laredo
D. Katy
Just north of Abilene near the Oklahoma border, you’ll find the town of Seymour, Texas. Which of these is its claim to fame?
A. Gold mines
B. Craft beer
C. Dinosaurs
D. Great shopping
If you want to buy these, head for Archer City which is famous for a Main Street store started by screenwriter Larry McMurty.
A. Diamonds
B.Used books
C. Records
D. Watches
The town
is a ...
A. Buffet restaurant
B. Federal prison
C. Racetrack
D. Water park
Across the border from Shreveport, Louisiana, you’ll find the only natural lake in Texas in this small town.
A. Lewisville
B. Jefferson
C. San Marcos
D. Round Rock
Founded in the 1830s, Liberty, Texas has its own replica of a U.S. landmark. Can you name it?
A. Statue of Liberty
B. Liberty Bell
C. White House
D. Pentagon
of New Braunfels near San Antonio is known as home to Schlitterbahn, which
Known as the infamous ghost town near Big Bend. Once a quicksilver
FOCUS
ON FITNESS
Shaye Henderson, BSN, M.Ed., M.S., Instructor at Bent On Healthy Living Wellness Center, 2910 53rd Street, Galveston
Show Your Heart Some Love This February
February is often associated with matters of the heart—that warm, fuzzy feeling we get from love. But how can you expect your heart to perform its “love function” if it’s not in tip-top shape?
Your heart works hard for you every single day—not just when you’re in love. In fact, it began beating just 22 days after you were conceived and continues pumping an average of 80 times per minute. At that rate, your heart beats roughly 42,075,904 beats per year, give or take a couple of million. Over a lifetime, that adds up to about three billion heartbeats or more.
If your heart could talk, it might say: “Hey! I beat over 42 million times a year. Take good care of me, and we can spend a lot more time together. You take care of me, and I’ll take care of you.”
So how can you support your heart’s health?
One of the most effective ways is by improving your cardiorespiratory endurance through regular exercise. Activities that elevate your heart rate and keep it elevated for a sustained period strengthen both your heart and lungs. Research shows that better cardiorespiratory fitness reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even lung cancer.
Your heart is a muscle, and like any muscle, it gets stronger with use. People who don’t exercise are nearly twice as likely to develop heart disease as those who stay active. Regular physical activity helps burn calories, lower blood pressure, reduce LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and boost HDL (“good”) cholesterol.
Let’s dive into the three best workouts for heart health, according to cardiologists.
activity is ideal. In addition to strengthening your heart and lowering cardiovascular risk, aerobic exercise has been shown to improve mood, cognitive function, and immune health—truly a win-win all around.
How much: Aim for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week—or about 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
Examples: Brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling, playing tennis, or taking a cardio class at a group fitness studio.
1. Aerobic Activity
What it does: Aerobic exercise gets you breathing harder and your heart beating faster. A combination of moderate and vigorous
2. Strength/Resistance Training
What it does: U.S. guidelines recommend that adults perform strength training for all major muscle groups at least two days per week. This is especially important for older adults, as resistance training increases bone density and reduces fall risk. Over time, it helps increase lean muscle mass, reduce agerelated fat gain, and lower blood pressure.
How much: At least two nonconsecutive days per week, according to the American College of Sports Medicine.
Examples: Free weights (dumbbells or barbells), weight machines, resistance bands, or body-weight exercises such as push-ups, squats, and chin-ups.
3. Flexibility and Mobility Training
What they do: Flexibility refers to how well your muscles stretch, while mobility describes a joint’s ability to move through its full range of motion. While stretching doesn’t directly strengthen the heart, flexibility and mobility are essential for maintaining heart-healthy activity. They help prevent injuries, reduce fall risk, and support long-term independence.
How much: Every day and before and after exercise.
Examples: Your doctor can recommend basic stretches you can do at home, or you can find videos to follow (though check with your doctor if you’re concerned about the exercise’s intensity). Many group fitness studios also have stretching classes on their schedules, so go check out a class and try it!
Being physically active is a significant step toward good heart health.
It’s one of your most effective tools for strengthening the heart muscle, keeping your weight under control, and warding off arterial damage from high cholesterol, high blood sugar, and high blood pressure, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Even a small amount of regular exercise is beneficial for your heart, your body, your mood, and your ability to live a longer, healthier life. It’s never too late to start exercising, and you don’t have to be an athlete. Once you get going, you’ll find it pays off for you and the ones you love.
Tablecloth Linens
Shaye Henderson, BSN, M.Ed., M.S., Instructor at Bent On Healthy Living Wellness Center, 2910 53rd Street, Galveston
FOSTER
FOSTER
Fostering Saves Lives. For a weekend or until adoption, give a shelter animal time out of a cage in a home. You could be instrumental in finding that animals new home. From old dogs to bottle baby kittens our foster program is vital to our success.
Fostering Saves Lives. For a weekend or until adoption, give a shelter animal time out of a cage in a home. You could be instrumental in finding that animals new home. From old dogs to bottle baby kittens our foster program is vital to our success.
VOLUNTEER
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers are the backbone of GIHS. Assisting with many tasks at the shelter and off-site events! Sign up today to help advocate for adoptable animals, take a dog for a walk, socialize kittens, or one of any other volunteer tasks that make our mission possible.
DONATE
Volunteers are the backbone of GIHS. Assisting with many tasks at the shelter and at off-site events! Sign up today to help advocate for adoptable animals, take a dog 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 programs or as a general contribution every dollar supports our mission and it is tax-deductible. We do have an Amazon wish list as well, you can literally give a dog a bone.
Whether in support of one of our designated programs or as a general contribution every dollar supports our mission and it is tax deductible. We do have an Amazon wish list as well, you can literally give a dog a bone.
SHELTER SERVICES:
S a f e h o u s i n g a n d c a r e f o r r e s i d e n t p e t s i n c l u d i n g a n i m a l h e a l t h a n d b e h a v i o r a s s e s s m e n t s R o u t i n e h e a l t h c a r e i n c l u d i n g i m m u n i z a t i o n s , w o r m i n g , a n d t r e a t m e n t f o r m i n o r i n j u r i e s R a b i e s o b s e r v a t i o n s f o r b i t e c a s e s
P a r t n e r i n g w i t h o t h e r o r g a n i z a t i o n s t o t a k e i n a n i m a l s a s n e e d e d
Safe housing and care for resident pets including animal health and behavior assessments. Routine health care including immunizations, worming, and treatment for minor injuries. Rabies observations for bite cases. Partnering with other organizations to take in animals as needed. Coordinating transport for out-of-state placements.
C o o r d i n a t i n g t r a n s p o r t f o r o u t o f s t a t e
p l a c e m e n t s
ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS:
-Spay/neuter assistance
-Lost pet assistance and recovery
-Humane education for all ages
OUR MISSION
Dedicated to promoting animal welfare and the protection and prevention of unwanted or homeless animals of Galveston Island.
ADOPT FOSTER SPONSOR VOLUNTEER
EDUCATE DONATE
CONNECT WITH US
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!”
T h e G a l v e s t o n I s l a n d H u m a n e S o c i e t y I N C , f o r m e d i n 1 9 8 1 a s a 5 0 1 C 3 , n o n - p r o f i t o r g a n i z a t i o n . O r i g i n a l l y c r e a t e d b y c o n c e r n e d c i t i z e n s t o r e s c u e a n i m a l s f r o m “ t h e p o u n d ” a n d m u c h h a s c h a n g e d o v e r t h e l a s t f e w d e c a d e s T o d a y w e h a v e a h u m a n e s h e l t e r w i t h a n o - k i l l l i v e r e l e a s e
MEET GIHS
The Galveston Island Humane Society, Inc., formed in 1981, is a 501c3, non-profit organization. Originally created by concerned citizens to rescue animals from “the pound,” much has changed. Today we have a humane shelter, providing care for lost or homeless pets, reuniting pets with families, and promoting the adoptions of pets needing homes.
r a t e . D a i l y w e p r o v i d e c a r e f o r l o s t o r h o m e l e s s p e t s , r e u n i t i n g p e t s w i t h t h e i r f a m i l i e s a n d p r o m o t i n g t h e a d o p t i o n o f p e t s n e e d i n g h o m e s A s a n “ o p e n a d m i s s i o n ” s h e l t e r f o r G a l v e s t o n I s l a n d w e a c c e p t a l l h o m e l e s s p e t s e v e n w h e n t h e s h e l t e r i s f u l l I n a c i t y w i t h a h i g h n u m b e r o f h o m e l e s s p e t s , t h i s c o u l d e a s i l y l e a d t o n e e d l e s s e u t h a n a s i a
GALVESTON ISLAND COMMUNITY CATS
E m e r g e n c y M e d i c a l A s s i s t a n c e
-Pet food pantry for individuals in need
-Emergency Medical Assistance
WHAT DO ADOPTIONS INCLUDE AT GIHS?
A l l a d o p t e d p e t s a r e s p a y e d / n e u t e r e d a s r e q u i r e d b y T e x a s l a w .
-All adopted pets are spayed/neutered as required by Texas law.
V a c c i n a t i o n s i n c l u d i n g r a b i e s , a s w e l l a s
F l e a a n d H e a r t w o r m p r e v e n t i o n a r e a l l
c u r r e n t w h e n p e t i s a d o p t e d
M i c
-Vaccinations including rabies, as well as Flea and - Heartworm prevention, are all current when the pet is adopted.
-Microchip.
GICC was established in 2015 and is a progressive Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) program to fix, vaccinate and release feral cats on the island. To date, we have altered over 4000 felines with this program. The success of this program has reduced yearly intake at GIHS and has improved our live release rate in cats from 52% in 2014 to 94% in 2024.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
-Microchip your pets.
-Spay or neuter your pets.
O u r p r o g r a m s w o r k d i l i g e n t l y t o r e d u c e t h e n u m b e r o f p e t s i n o u r c o m m u n i t y . W e a r e c o m m i t t e d t o a s s u r i n g t h a t a d o p t a b l e p e t s a r e k e p t a v a i l a b l e u n t i l t h e y a r e p l a c e d i n a f a m i l y o r t r a n s f e r r e d t o a p a r t n e r o r g a n i z a t i o n .
O u r s h e l t e r i s m a n a g e d b y a b o a r d o f d i r e c t o r s c a r i n g s t a f f a n d a c t i v e v o l u n t e e r s w h o w o r k t o p r o v i d e f o r t h e
As an “open admission” shelter for Galveston Island, we accept all homeless pets, even when the shelter is full. In a city with a high number of homeless pets, which could lead to needless euthanasia, our programs work diligently to reduce the number of pets in our community.
-Like and share from our social networks.
-Become a member of GIHS.
-ADOPT your next best friend.
0 1 4 t o 9 4 % i n 2 0 2 4
-VOLUNTEER at the shelter.
-FOSTER if you cannot adopt.
-DONATE to support our mission.
M i c r o c h i p y o u r p e t s S p a y o r n e u t e r y o u r p e t s a n d e n c o u r a g e o t h e r s t o d o t h e s a m e
L i k e a n d s h a r e f r o m o u r s o c i a l B e c o m e a m e m b e r o f G I H S A D O P T y o u r n e x t b e s t f r i e n d V O L U N T E E R a t t h e s h e l t e r F O S T E R i f y o u c a n n o t a d o p t
We are committed to assuring that adoptable pets are kept available until they are placed in a family or transferred to a partner organization. Our shelter is managed by a board of directors, caring staff, and active volunteers who work to provide for the pets in our care along with creating and managing community programs that will positively impact our shelter. We hope you will join us in our mission to make sure that every pet on Galveston Island can live out his or her life in a loving home.
D O N A T E t o s u p p o r t o u r m i s s i o n
HARPER
Meet Harper! Harper is a female 1-year-old Pointer mix. In addition to her striking good looks, Harper is sweet-natured and full of puppy energy. Harper is equal parts athlete and cuddle-bug! If you have room in your house and heart, please consider fostering / adopting this beautiful babe.
The Galveston Island Humane Society is always in need of volunteers, fosters, and adopters. By spending time with the shelter dogs, you can help them socialize and also promote their adoption. Becoming a foster parent or adopting a dog like Harper can give them the mental and emotional break they need from shelter life. If you’re interested in fostering, please visit: www.galvestonhumane.org/foster
If you’re interested in adopting Harper, please apply at www.galvestonhumane.org/adopt
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.
www.badbobrohan.com
Most children throughout this country love firefighters! Our island youngsters are no different. They love the Galveston Fire Department because the firefighters and their trucks are exciting, friendly, and easy to look up to. The big red engines, flashing lights, and loud sirens capture their attention, while open houses, school visits, and community events let kids meet firefighters up close. Firefighters are seen as real-life heroes who help people and animals, which makes them fun to learn about and easy to admire. Let’s take a look at the Galveston Fire Department history.
History
In the summer of 1885, five City Council representatives were appointed to look into whether Galveston should move from a volunteer fire service to a paid, full-time department. They presented their findings to City Council on September 21, 1885, and strongly recommended making the change right away. Along with their report, they introduced an ordinance that laid out how the Galveston Fire Department would be reorganized and run going forward.
The ordinance spelled out what the new department would look like: three steam engine companies, one hook and ladder company, two hose companies, and a combined supply hose cart and hose company. It also set salaries for everyone involved. The chief engineer (what we’d now call the fire chief) would earn $1,600 a year, and the assistant engineer $900, both appointed by City Council. Other paid positions—$90 for engineers, $65 for engine drivers, $50 for hose and hose cart drivers, $65 for hook and ladder and supply hose cart drivers, and $60 for a tillerman. Hosemen were paid $50 a month, whether they were assigned to the engines, the hook and ladder company, or the hose companies. The chief engineer nominated all personnel, but City Council had to approve each appointment by a majority vote.
Before a Paid Department
Before all this, Galveston’s volunteer fire companies didn’t have permanent homes. They operated out of whatever spaces they could find—sheds, barns, garages, and other makeshift locations big enough
to store their wagons and equipment. In one case, a company even kept its apparatus on a stretch of sidewalk outside a local business. Once the city created an official department, though, permanent stations became a necessity.
At first, the city set up three fire stations.
• Central Station, also called Station 1, was located on Avenue E (Postoffice Street) in a firehouse built in 1877 for Volunteer Hook and Ladder Company No. 1.
• Station 2 opened at 1718 Mechanic Street.
• Station 3 was established at 2512 Church Street.
Move to City Hall
As Galveston expanded rapidly through the late 1800s, the city transitioned from scattered volunteer companies to an official municipal fire department with permanent stations.
Eventually, both Central Station and Station #2 moved into the old City Hall building after the new City Hall opened on 25th Street. The old building was then repurposed as a combined police station and the fire department’s Central Station.
This reuse of civic buildings was common as the city modernized. Fire crews from Stations 1 and 2 continued working out of the Central Station on 20th Street until 1965, when a newer Central Station was built behind City Hall at 2514 Sealy Avenue.
The first Central Station, eventually called Station #1, was established in a firehouse built in 1877 at 2308 Avenue E, where the volunteer Hook and Ladder Company had been located.
Hook and Ladder Company No. 1 was organized in 1843. The bylaws were adopted in 1847.
Albert Ball was the Foreman, similar to the position of fire chief today. Mr. Ball is credited with founding the first regular fire company in Galveston.
Fact: His brother George Ball is the namesake of Ball High School in Galveston.
At his instance, the law was enacted exempting firemen from jury service. He was empowered by the city to purchase the first engine it ever owned, and he was himself an active fireman for many years.
Bucket Brigades
Several island volunteer companies were established in the mid-19th century to provide fire protection for our growing port city.
in case they needed to put out a fire.
Central Fire Station #1
Fun
Fun Fact: Early residents were required to keep buckets in every room of the house just
Happy February, Wavers!
FUN FACTS by
thomas waggoner
At the time, “Bucket Brigades” were used to fight fires. People formed lines—one passing full buckets from a water source (well, river) to the fire, and the other returning empty buckets.
Station #1 continued serving downtown Galveston throughout the century as the central hub of fire protection for the island. Destruction came in 2008 when Hurricane Ike struck Galveston in September, causing widespread damage across the city. All six Galveston fire stations, including Station #1, sustained significant damage due to winds around 110 mph and a storm surge up to 15 feet. As part of recovery efforts, federal disaster relief grants funded the design and construction of a new, resilient Fire Station No. 1 capable of withstanding future hurricanes.
The current Fire Station #1 opened in August 2019 at 823 26th Street, in the heart of downtown Galveston, near City Hall and the Moody Mansion.
This station was built with the intention of matching the historical architecture of the downtown Galveston area and built with hurricane preparedness in mind.
Fun Fact: On the east side of Central Fire Station #1, there is a memorial for firefighters who lost their lives protecting the city of Galveston.
Star State Company No. 3 has deep roots in Galveston’s history. The fire company itself was formed in 1859 and was the city’s third firehouse. The original firehouse, built in 1860, was destroyed in the devastating 1900 hurricane. The current 1903 building replaced it on the same site. It served the city for decades and became especially significant in 1959.
Fun Fact: In 1959, this station became the first in the city to be integrated.
The building is a rare example of a late 19th- and early 20th-century civic firehouse. The original structure consisted of a wood frame with a brick veneer exterior and a composition roof. The building featured decorative bands, cast concrete details, multi-light windows, and a striking parapet and balcony on the main façade—features typical of Victorian architecture.
It is the only remaining Victorian-era fire station on Galveston Island.
Although the building still stood on its original site, it went through many changes over the years.
Photos from 1948 to 1951 show the building without its original balcony above the central door and covered in stucco. The 1915 hurricane caused damage that led to the removal of some of these elements, and by around 1950, the building had been covered with a concrete facing.
After careful evaluation by architects and engineers, it was determined that the building was too deteriorated to safely preserve in place. As a result, reconstruction was chosen as the best option. While it’s not typically the preferred method, it allows a historic building to be recreated when the original structure can no longer be saved. In this case, reconstruction made it possible to accurately replicate the fire station’s historic appearance while ensuring safety and long-term stability.
Fun Fact: The station remained in use until it was decommissioned in the 1960s.
After it stopped operating as a firehouse, the building was used by the city’s water department and later for storage before being vacated.
It was sold and eventually acquired by Galveston Historical Foundation in 2017, setting the stage for its careful reconstruction and preservation.
Fun Fact: In 2007, the building was designated a Galveston City Landmark.
The Great Fire of 1885
Sometimes called the “Great Holocaust,” it was one of the worst disasters in Texas history. It hit Galveston early in the morning on Friday, November 13, 1885, tearing through about 40 to 42 blocks in the city’s wealthy East End.
The fire started around 1:30 a.m. at the Vulcan Ironworks Foundry on the Strand, between 16th and 17th Streets. A furnace explosion, combined with strong north winds blowing about 30 miles per hour, quickly turned a small blaze into a massive inferno.
“Onlookers and firefighters misjudged the extent of the fire. This is a conflagration unlike anything seen before. People left their homes to help at the lumber yard, not realizing their own homes were on fire. The scene was sublime in its awfulness.
The combined efforts of every fire department in all of Texas would have been ineffective against this blaze. Reporters witnessed valiant efforts to blow saltwater out of the bay at the fire. Everything curled up like burning paper. The eastern limit of the blaze was 17th Street. Only the Gulf could check the fury of this fire. Dr. Trueheart’s residence stood, but everything else in the four blocks between Ave K and Ave O was gone. All the fire departments just looked on helplessly.”
— The Daily News
As the city moved forward from this disastrous event, Chief Oldenberg issued a few fire safety tips
1903 Firehouse No. 3
Bucket Brigades
1903 Firehouse No. 3
Current Fire Station #1
FUN FACTS
for the public.
• “Always turn in an alarm! Put the number of your nearest fire station by your phone so that you can tell Central immediately.
• Don’t run back into your home to save trinkets!
• Women, tear off your skirts so they do not catch fire.
• Do not run frantically from room to room, as it only fans the flames.”
— Chief Oldenberg
For nearly six hours, the fire burned out of control. By the time it was over, 568 buildings had been destroyed and more than 2,000 people were left without homes. Most of the buildings were wooden, which helped the flames spread fast.
The damage was estimated at around $2 million in 1885.
Fun Fact: That is roughly $60 to $65 million today.
Amazingly, no one died directly in the fire itself. However, one elderly man reportedly suffered a fatal heart attack while evacuating, and another man later died when a chimney from his burned-out home collapsed on him.
Change on the Way
Firefighting equipment was very different from the equipment we see today. Fighting the fire proved incredibly difficult. Galveston’s professional fire department was only about a month old at the time and faced multiple problems. The alarm wasn’t sounded until more than 30 minutes after the fire had already spread.
Fun Fact: Firefighters pumped saltwater from the Gulf, but their hoses kept clogging with seashells.
There were no nearby fire hydrants, and strong winds kept knocking the suction pipes out of the water.
In the long run, the fire changed the city. New building rules required slate roofs to reduce fire risk.
Fun Fact: Those same tiles later became dangerous during the Great Storm of 1900.
Apparatus: Horse versus Engine
Before fire engines had motors, the Galveston Fire Department depended on horse-drawn equipment to get to fires. Trained horses pulled steam engines, hose wagons, and ladder trucks through the streets, often at a full run when the alarm sounded. The steam engines pumped water from hydrants, while hose wagons and ladder trucks carried the tools firefighters needed to control fires and rescue people.
This setup worked well for Galveston at the time and is the reason early firehouses were built with wide doors and space for horses right behind the apparatus.
The transition from horses to gasoline-powered fire engines in Galveston was gradual, not sudden, and took place mainly in the 1910s and early 1920s.
At first, motorized fire engines were introduced alongside horse-drawn equipment. Early gasoline engines weren’t always reliable, so departments kept horses as a backup. Some stations even had combination crews, where a motorized engine shared space with a horse-drawn wagon. As engines improved, they proved faster, could travel farther without tiring, and required less daily care than horses.
Firehouses had to be adapted during this change. Stalls were removed, floors were reinforced for heavier engines, and ramps replaced gentle slopes meant for horses. Firefighters also had to be trained as drivers and mechanics. They had to learn how to maintain and repair the new machines.
By the early 1920s, gasoline-powered engines had become dependable enough that horses were fully retired.
The change marked a major shift in firefighting. Responses became quicker and more consistent, and the familiar sounds of hooves and harness bells gave way to engines and sirens.
Much of the Victorian architecture seen in Galveston’s East End today comes from the rapid rebuilding between 1886 and 1890. Fire disasters also shifted public opinion, leading to a stronger, better-funded, and better-trained fire department.
Well Wavers, I hope you have enjoyed learning about our island’s firefighting history. Our firefighters are a very important part of our island. Until next month!
Pennie’s Take Out Menu
Smoked Brisket
Quality brisket covered with our original rub, slow smoked and ready to be sliced when you order.
Pork Ribs
Pork ribs cooked with our original rub till almost done then basted with our honey sweetened sauce.
Grilled Chicken
Chicken spiced with our rub cooked over wood. Unlike any chicken you have ever eaten.
Link Sausage
Pork and Beef link sausage smoked over oak ready and waiting for you to order.
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!
Savour
Barbacoa (Sat. and Sun. Only)
Pennie Ochoa’s delicious recipe. Tender, moist shredded beef is the result.
Sides and Dessert
All sides are made fresh at Pennie’s
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
by: Tom Valliere & Charlie Bresenhan
Way West Grill & Pizzeria
It was February 2019, almost exactly seven years ago, when I last sat down with Cindy Roberts, owner of Way West Grill & Pizzeria in the small coastal community of Jamaica Beach. Over the years, I had stayed in contact with Ms. Roberts and was always amazed at the amount of community support, compassion, and selfless giving this human dynamo delivers quietly on a regular basis.
It appears that Cindy and her staff are consistently engaged in various forms of community action. Feeding first responders during emergencies, hosting fundraisers for families suffering personal tragedies, soliciting gifts for “Blue Santa” targeting children at Christmas, and countless other charities seemingly non-stop over the years.
It was, therefore, an honor and a privilege to once again sit with Cindy and discuss updates for this article during a recent lunch.
When I met her several years ago, she had recently purchased the former Blue Water Pizza restaurant in Jamaica Beach, following a brief stint operating a food truck in that community. Cindy had relocated from her native Oklahoma and was determined to make a life for herself and her family on Galveston Island. Settling into the quiet village of Jamaica Beach has been both rewarding and difficult.
Certainly rewarding from a human perspective as Cindy quickly assimilated into the tight-knit community where everyone seemingly
Big BITES
knows their neighbors, but posing a difficult financial path as she faces a yearly struggle for survival during the slow off-season when locals outnumber visitors, and many tables remain empty during the day.
This is not uncommon for Galveston. Many local businesses struggle during off season, and the local government has done much to increase visitor traffic in our colder months.
The annual Lone Star Rally, Dickens on the Strand, and Mardi Gras help immensely, and the expansion of our cruise port brings thousands of visitors to Galveston weekly throughout the year.
However, this does little to help the less touristy west end of our island. Here in Jamaica Beach, each winter season is a struggle for survival.
Ever resourceful, Cindy meets this annual challenge head-on in a number of ways. One recent innovation is to offer a special carryout menu intended for heat-and-eat convenience at home. While not a new concept, Cindy’s version is scalable from a single meal to a family feast. Customers select and pre-order from a menu that offers several entrees and side dishes for pickup the following day. Affordable and delicious, they are proving to be quite popular - and by offering island-wide delivery, greatly expand her customer base.
Truly a family affair, Cindy lacks the ability to vary her workforce to compensate for reduced revenue, as many local businesses do. This presents an obvious challenge but also has a silver lining, resulting in a highly efficient and well-polished team that ensures excellence with every meal and visit. A carryout pizza or a full family dinner, she offers a consistency that is often lacking in an industry that has a relatively transient workforce.
So what exactly can you expect from a visit to her restaurant?
For starters, expect ample off-street parking directly in front of the
restaurant. There are a few stairs to navigate and a handicap ramp if needed. You enter into a rather sparse but meticulously clean dining room with a carryout counter to the right and tables and booths to the left. Expect a few locals watching the news on a large screen TV and loitering over their coffee. This is a casual neighborhood restaurant and certainly not fancy.
You are greeted and presented with a single sheet menu with their pizza offerings on one side and lunch and dinner selections on the other. The menu opens with a selection of appetizers that includes nachos, chicken wings, stuffed mushrooms, cheese curds, and more.
Salads come next. No surprises here except for a surprisingly good fresh spinach salad with eggs, bacon, grilled mushrooms, almonds, and mozzarella cheese. It is excellent, and with a grilled chicken option is a full meal. All of her salads are offered with a variety of house-made dressings.
They have a menu section devoted to their fries, which they are proud of, and rightly so. They are offered poutine style and piled high with various toppings. They are a delicious and filling option for a meal or a hearty side dish.
A smattering of quesadillas, chicken strips, and tacos is offered, and a wide array of burgers and sandwiches. My recent visit included their
club sandwich. A very traditional sandwich, it was differentiated solely by the quality of the meats and cheeses and careful assembly. But that is enough for me. Nothing here truly stands out, but everything is wellexecuted, fresh, and utilizes quality ingredients.
They are well known and highly regarded for their pizzas. Either eat-in, carryout, or delivery. They are offered in two sizes, 12 and 16 inches, with a variety of toppings. An optional cauliflower crust is available. Everything on their pizza menu looks straightforward with few surprises. Just the same consistency and quality ingredients as aforementioned.
This is a family-friendly restaurant. Children are welcomed and a special kiddie menu is available to keep it affordable.
As I mentioned earlier, this is a family - owned and operated business, with Cindy as matriarch, oldest son Jake as business partner and waiter, youngest son Tristan as an aspiring musician, Keli (Jake’s fiancée) running front - of - house, brother Miguel making pizzas, Kady, general manager, Garret on the grill, and Teresa serving you.
This is what makes this restaurant special. You are more than a customer. You are a valued guest invited to share thier family’s dinner table. In a world of bottom-line, impersonal service and pre-assembled, pre-packaged food, it makes a huge difference. One visit and you will see what I mean.
Thank you, Cindy and team, for a wonderful lunch! Plenty of off-street parking. Handicapped access is good. Sorry, no pets or patio dining.
Hours of Operation:
Sunday - Thursday 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, (closed Tuesday) Friday and Saturday 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Way West Grill & Pizzeria
16708 Termini-San Luis Pass Road, Suite B Jamaica Beach, Texas 77554 (409) 974-4934
www.waywestgrill.com
Catering menu available. See website or call.
Pennie’s 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.
Pennie’s Tex-Mex 1713 37th Street ( 409)-765-5719
Huevos Rancheros
2 Eggs, a side of refried beans, fried corn tortillas with cheese all topped with fresh salsa and avocado. Served with warm corn tortillas.
ShyKatz 1528 Avenue L (409) 770-0500
February Featured Dishes
Fish
and Chips
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.
Huli Huli Hut 504 25th Street (409)-443-5525
Elevate your Wednesdays at Saltwater Grill
Join us every Wednesday and indulge in our succulent, hand-cut prime ribserved 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!
Saltwater Grill - 2017 Postoffice Street (409) 762-3474
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
Coconut Crusted Red Snapper
Coconut crusted red snapper topped with mango pico de gallo, one jumbo scallop and one jumbo shrimp, accompanied with char-grilled broccolini and herb roasted potatoes
Cooper’s Landing 11150 Termini-San Luis Pass (409) 539-5534
The Joey
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.
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
February Featured Dishes
Papa’s Apple Pie Crunchers
Mama’s apple pie rolled up in a crispy shell, fried to perfection. Tossed in cinnamon sugar, finished with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of salted caramel.
Papa’s Pizza 4400 Seawall Blvd (409) 766-7272
Puffy Taco Tuesdays
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!
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.
Katie’s Seafood 2000 Wharf Rd (409) 765-5688
Sky Bar $5 Martini Thursdays
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
Chef’s Spotlight
Gulf Flavors, Local Legends
Column by: Tom Valliere & Charlie Bresenhan
Recipe by: Brett Otteman, Katie’s Seafood House
Chef’s Spotlight: Gulf Flavors, Local Legends
Welcome to a new monthly feature celebrating the culinary heart of Galveston. Each issue, Chef’s Spotlight brings you a signature recipe from one of our region’s standout kitchens — complete with behind-the-scenes notes, fresh Gulf ingredients, and plating that tells a story.
This month, we dive into Katie’s Seafood’s Crab
Stuffed Shrimp: a cast-iron classic that blends coastal tradition with bold, buttery flavor. Whether you’re cooking at home or planning your next night out, this column is your taste of Galveston’s best.
Butterfly shrimp from belly side until flat. In suitable mixing bowl combine olive oil and seasonings and mix to coat shrimp well.
Filling Prep:
• 8 oz. (w) jumbo lump blue crab meat, 8 oz. (w) blue crab claw meat
• 1 cup cooked spinach, squeeze all liquid out in cheesecloth
• 6 oz. (v) chopped artichoke hearts strained and chopped
• 1 cup Hellmann’s Mayonnaise
• 8 oz. (w) cream cheese
• ½ cup crushed cracker crumbs
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup Maceo Greek Herbs
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• zest of ½ lemon
Reserving crab for last, mix all ingredients in suitable mixing bowl. Fold in all crab
gently and mix thoroughly but do not break up lumps. Scoop out golf ball size scoops (about 1.5 oz. (v))
Garlic Butter Dill Sauce:
• ½ lb. (w) butter, salted
• ¼ cup garlic, fresh minced
• 2 tablespoons dill, fresh chopped
• Add all ingredients to 1 quart stock pot and melt. Do not cook mixture.
• Mix well. (garlic will cook when spooned over shrimp in oven.)
Instructions:
• Preheat oven to 350*.
• Place shrimp flat in the palm of your hand. Fill each butterflied shrimp with the prepared shrimp filling laying on top of the shrimp belly. Mold the shrimp onto the filling and fold the tail over on top. Place them on baking tray or serving dish sides touching but not packed. Bake shrimp for about 15 minutes, remove shrimp and spoon garlic butter dill on-top of each shrimp. Bake another 10 minutes until internal temperature is 145 degrees.
• Remove from oven, top with more garlic butter dill sauce and serve.
T
CURTAIN GOING UP
By: Paul Hager
What’s Coming To Broadway In 2026: Upcoming Hits And Star Performances
2026 is here, and this year, Broadway will welcome stars like Taraji P. Henson, Jon Bernthal, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Rose Byrne, Kelli O’Hara and more. All eyes are already on the lineup for the new Broadway season, and many productions on the Great White Way have already revealed full details of their upcoming engagements. Check out a full list of what’s to come on Broadway in 2026 including plays, musicals, revivals, new shows and of course - stars!
BUG
- By Tracy Letts - A lonely waitress and a mysterious drifter form an intense romance. What begins as a simple connection between two broken people in a seedy Oklahoma motel room twists into something far more dangerous. When reality slips out of grasp, paranoia, delusion, and conspiracy take over in this sexy psychological thriller. From Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Tracy Letts and Tony Award-winning director David Cromer, this production of Bug comes to Broadway following its 2021 run at Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theatre, starring three-time Emmy Award nominee and Tony Award nominee Carrie Coon.
EVERY BRILLIANT THING -
By
Duncan Macmillan -
A man looks back at his life and the glimmers of hope that carried him through. All told through a list of every wonderful, beautiful, and delightful thing—big, small, and everything in between—that makes life worth living. This one-of-a-kind solo show, which has been performed across the globe in over 80 countries on stages of all sizes—and for an HBO Special starring co-creator Jonny Donahoe—makes its long-awaited Broadway premiere following a hit season @sohoplace in London’s West End. On Broadway, it will star Tony winner Daniel Radcliffe.
DEATH OF A SALESMAN -
By Arthur Miller
-
Death of a Salesman explores the struggles of a man confronting the pressures of success, identity, and family expectations in mid-20th-century America. Through shifting memories and emotional confrontations, the play paints a powerful portrait of dreams, disillusionment, and the human condition. This classic has been an essential part of our national consciousness since its Broadway debut in 1949, and throughout every subsequent era. The original production won the Pulitzer Prize for
Drama, the Tony Award for Best Play, and the New York Drama Critics’ Circle Award. This version will be led by Laurie Metcalf and Nathan Lane, with direction by Joe Mantello.
DOG DAY AFTERNOON - By
Stephen Adly Guirgis
- The legendary true crime story that captivated audiences in the acclaimed film is now a live, pulse-pounding Broadway event. Step back into the sweltering summer of 1972, New York City—a time when the Vietnam War looms large, Watergate headlines flood the news, and one man’s desperate act captivates the nation. Emmy Award winner Jon Bernthal (“The Odyssey,” “The Bear”) and two-time Emmy Award winner Ebon Moss-Bachrach (“The Fantastic Four: First Steps,” “The Bear”) ignite the stage with grit, heart, and humor. Witness the gutwrenching twist as it unfolds, immersing you in the unfiltered chaos of a man—and a city—on the edge.
GIANT - by Mark Rosenblatt - A world-famous children’s author under threat. A battle of wills in the wake of scandal. And one chance to make amends... It’s the summer of 1983, The Witches is about to hit the shelves, and Roald Dahl is making last-minute edits. But the outcry at his recent, explicitly antisemitic article won’t die down. Across a single afternoon at his family home, and rocked by an unexpectedly explosive confrontation, Dahl is forced to choose: make a public apology or risk his name and reputation.
Inspired by real events, GIANT explores with dark humour the difference between considered opinion and dangerous rhetoric, offering a complicated portrait of a fiendishly charismatic icon.
PAUL HAGER
PAUL HAGER
BECKY SHAW - By Gina Gionfriddo - A Pulitzer Prize finalist and smash Off-Broadway hit, Becky Shaw is the latest comedy from Obie Award-winner Gina Gionfriddo (After Ashley, writer/producer of Law & Order). When Suzanna (Bergl, reprising the role she created in NY) decides to set her best friend Max up on a blind date with her husband’s mysterious co-worker, Becky Shaw, she sets into motion a series of cataclysmic events forever changing all of their lives. Mixing sharp wit and humor with the taut suspense of a psychological thriller, Becky Shaw is a comedy of romantic errors that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, guessing what will happen next.
TITANIQUE
- Book by Tye Blue, Marla Mindelle, Constantine Rousouli, and Nicholas James Connel - When the music of Céline Dion makes sweet Canadian love with the eleven-time Oscarwinning film Titanic, you get Titanique, a musical celebration that turns one of the greatest love stories of all time into a hysterical and joyful slay-fest.
Featuring powerhouse voices and show-stopping numbers (plus, contemporary pop culture and punchy odes to the 90s film), Titanique is a one-of-a-kind musical voyage bursting with nostalgia & heart. It’s a pure love letter comedy, fun, and all things joyful!
THE ROCKY HORROR
SHOW - By Richard O’Brian - The Rocky Horror Show is the story of two squeaky clean college kids--Brad and his fiancée, Janet-- on their way to visit their former college professor. when by a twist of fate, their car breaks down outside a mansion. They meet the charismatic Dr. Frank-nFurter, Riff Raff, Columbia, Magenta Eddie, and Rocky. It is an adventure they would remember for a very long time. Filled with fun, frolics and frocks, this is the show the Daily Telegraph calls “fresh. Subversive, and essential.”
The legendary rock-‘n’-roll musical takes on new life as a guaranteed party, staged by Oh, Mary! director Sam Pinkleton in a new version. With 51 years of continuous global productions, seen by over 35 million people around the world, it features some of the most iconic musical show stopping classics of all time, including “Dammit Janet,” “Touch-a, Touch—a, Touch-a Touch Me, “Hot Patootie” and of course “Time Warp”, the party floor-filler.
lost romance? This comedy of manners consists of three acts and a neverending supply of champagne.
FALLEN ANGELS - By Nöel Coward - Witty dialogue, glamour and madcap humor bubble out of control in Nöel Coward’s 1925 farce. We follow the story of Julia and Jane, two upper-class friends waiting for a shared secret to arrive at the front door. Can the virtues of married life stand firm against the lure of
BEACHES - Book by Iris Rainer Dart & Thom Thomas Music by Mike Stoller Lyrics by Iris Rainer Dart - This new musical, based on the best-selling novel that became the blockbuster film, brings to the stage one of the most iconic friendships in popular culture.
This sweeping, emotional, and joy-filled new musical follows the vivacious Cee Cee and elegant Bertie, who meet as children and become fast friends. From pen-pals to roommates to romantic rivals, Cee Cee and Bertie’s oil-and-water friendship perseveres over the course of 30 years through even the most tragic trials. With a touching vulnerability, it exemplifies the triumph of the human spirit and the bonds of friendship.
SCHMIGADOON! - Book, Music, and Lyrics by Cinco Paul - The musical is based on the Apple Original series from Universal Television of the same name. New York doctors Josh and Melissa set out on a couples’ backpacking retreat to rekindle the flame, but instead find themselves in Schmigadoon, a magical town that’s a Golden Age musical come to life. The townspeople won’t stop singing, the bridge out leads nowhere, and the only way to escape is by finding true love—which may or may not be with each other.
“Schmigadoon is a love letter to the Golden Age of movie musicals,” said producer Lorne Michaels. “It’s a little bit nostalgic and a lot of fun. We’re very excited to bring it to Broadway.” It will leave you with a song in your heart ...if you manage to get out.
DOLLY:
A TRUE ORIGINAL MUSICAL - Music and Lyrics by Dolly Parton Book by Dolly Parton and Maria S. Schlatter - Dolly: A True Original Musical takes us on a journey through the life of this rhinestone in the rough, from her barefoot beginnings in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee to performing in platform heels under the bright lights of Hollywood.
Featuring all her beloved hits, including “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” and “9 to 5,” and new songs written by Dolly, this joyful and moving new musical will take you inside the literal rags-to-rhinestones story of Dolly Parton and give you new insight into her triumphs, trials, and trailblazing.
Directed by Tony Award winner Bartlett Sher, it’s all about the extraordinary icon, who has sold over 100 million albums worldwide, is an inductee in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and is Billboard’s #1 Country Artist of All Time.
PAUL HAGER
DREAMGIRLS - Book and Lyrics by Tom Eyen
Music by Henry Krieger - Based upon the show business aspirations and successes of R&B acts such as The Supremes, The Shirelles, James Brown, Jackie Wilson, and others, the musical follows the story of a young female singing trio from Chicago, Illinois called “The Dreams”, who become music superstars. It was nominated for thirteen Tony Awards, including the Tony Award for Best Musical, and won six. It was later adapted into a motion picture from DreamWorks and Paramount Pictures in 2006.
Which of these shows would I love to see produced by our local venues when they become available? It’s tough for me to pick a favourite. I absolutely adored Schmigadoon! when it was on TV, I laughed and wept along with everybody else who saw the movie Beaches, and, having played Frank-N-Ferter twice in a parody of The Rocky Horror Show [aptly entitled ‘Rocky Horrible Picture Show’] at our local dive bar Robert’s Lafitte, I’ll always enjoy watching another performer’s interpretation of that role every chance I get!
Those are my faves - what are yours?
Listings
ON THE BOARDS
[Currently playing]
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/
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 http://www.thegrand.com/
PURPLE BOX THEATRE
FOUR OLD BROADS ON THE HIGH SEAS
By Leslie Kimbel
STANDING OVATION THEATRE
February 20 - March 1, 2026 - Times TBA http://www.thepurpleboxtheater.com/
THE EDUCATION OF ANGELS
By Matt Carlin
February 27 - March 8, 2026 - 2:30 PM and 7:30 PM https://standingovationtheatre.org/home-page
2026 Production Announcements and Audition dates to be released soon https://clearcreekcommunitytheatre.com/
BAYTOWN LITTLE THEATRE [BLT]
RIPCORD
By David Lindsay-Abaire
March 27 - April 4, 2026 - Various times https://baytownlittletheater.org/
PAUL HAGER
PAUL HAGER
Music Profile
Texas Katelyn Willis
Like many newcomers to the Galveston music scene, singer-songwriter Katelyn Willis says she has found the Island atmosphere warm and welcoming since her arrival less than two years ago from Austin, Texas.
“The people here really care about keeping the arts alive. Fans and regulars know they need to support live music or it’ll go away,” Willis said.
Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1990, Willis moved to Hallsville, Texas, approximately 150 miles east of Dallas, when she was 10 years old. She began playing the flute, piccolo, and bass in various school bands. Moving to Austin around 2009, Willis had by then learned to play the guitar and sing, and was looking to explore the singer-songwriter market with her eclectic style, which she admits is sometimes difficult to describe.
“I don’t know, maybe sad-girl country, emo cowgirl? Isn’t that what Megan Moroney calls it?” Willis said.
Emotionally charged as her songs may be, Willis says most of them are about her relationships and finds songwriting to be a cathartic exercise in helping maintain a balance in her life.
“I’m not sad, mostly because I write sad songs and that helps get that out so I don’t have to carry it with me,” Willis said.
A mother of two young girls, Heidi and Delilah, a chef and property manager, Willis said she has a busy life but tries to perform as many as 10 times a month at places like 1877 On The Strand and Island Pier Club on the island and occasionally off the island at Coco’s On The Canal in Kemah and The Vibe in League City.
Coming from the music-rich town of Austin, Willis said she has found Galveston to be a more supportive musical environment with better pay for musicians, and a good place to raise her daughters.
“I’ve been loving living on the island for the past year and a half, but I started coming here 5 years ago with my family. I quickly fell in love with ocean fishing and have done my fair share,” Willis said.
Upcoming shows include two dates during Mardi Gras at 1877 On The Strand (Feb. 7 and Feb. 12).
Zach Tate: How do you describe yourself as a musician?
Katelyn Willis: At a live show, I would describe myself as an energetic crowd-pleaser. I love interacting with the audience, and I always try to take requests, even if I’ve never played the suggested song before. In private, I tend to focus on creativity and writing; not only is it my passion, but songwriting genuinely helps me understand and navigate my feelings.
ZT: Why do you play/write/perform music?
KW : I keep pursuing music and playing live because it gives me a sense of purpose and is also a fun profession that helps me afford life as a single mother. I write to keep myself objective and sane. Songwriting forces me to explore possibilities and allows me to channel emotions in a healthy way.
ZT: Do you have any formal music training?
KW : I don’t know if school band counts as “formal” training. I played flute and piccolo in the concert band and bass in the jazz band until my senior year. I had many great teachers and learned a lot, but I never took voice or guitar lessons.
ZT: What is your earliest memory of being inspired by music?
KW : My earliest memory of being inspired by music was over three decades ago as a toddler memorizing and reciting patriotic songs, like “God Bless America.” I would often perform on a bar-top in a small, family-owned Chinese restaurant my grandparents frequented in Bossier City, Louisiana. Writing songs came later, after I picked up a guitar because my dad said,
Q&A with Katelyn Willis
Story and Photos by Zach Tate
Additional photos courtesy Sarah Saenz and Katelyn Willis
Performing at San Jac Saloon in Austin, March 2024
The Houston/Galveston music scene has really impressed me coming from Austin where it’s hard to get paid a decent wage. The musical community is so supportive, and the artists generally aren’t conceited or cliquey.
“Bass is for people who can’t play guitar,” when I was a freshman in high school.
ZT: What artists did you love growing up?
KW : The artists that most inspired me as a young songwriter were, in no particular order: Alanis Morrisette, Miranda Lambert, Maroon 5, and Blue October. My dad made sure I got a healthy dose of classic rock, but my mom had me listening to the “Delilah” radio show on the regular. I’m a big lyrics person, and all of those artists’ songs just spoke to that part of me.
ZT: Where was the first place you performed in front of people?
KW : My first performances were many and unpaid; my first professional (meaning paid) gig was playing bass in the pit orchestra for musicals at my high school. My high school talent show was the first time I ever played live and alone, in front of over a thousand people. I won my category and placed 2nd overall.
ZT: Who influences you these days and why?
KW : Creative and moving lyrics have always been a theme in my musical taste, but currently I have been influenced by artists like Noah Kahn, Ella Langley, Gavin Adcock, Zach Top, Maggie Antone, and Sabrina Carpenter.
ZT: What defines ‘good music’ in your opinion?
KW : Good music to me either has to make me want to dance or want to cry.
ZT: What is your songwriting process?
KW : My songwriting process varies, but I usually play around with chords until something feels right. I might have a line in my head, might not. Generally, it feels like channeling the divine, especially the songs that I finish in an hour or two.
ZT: What is your opinion on AI-developed songs?
KW : AI? More like A why?! I don’t mess with it.
ZT: How do you define success as would relate to being a musician?
KW : Success has a different meaning for everyone, and I’m a relatively simple and low-maintenance person. Fame and the attention that comes with it have never intrigued me. Writing for established artists is my ultimate goal, but I do love playing local shows where I can connect with real people in a low-pressure environment.
ZT: What is your opinion of the Galveston (and/or Houston) music scenes?
KW : The Houston/Galveston music scene has really impressed me coming from Austin where it’s hard to get paid a decent wage. The musical community is so supportive, and the artists generally aren’t conceited or cliquey. Moving here has been a blessing in disguise, and I am so grateful for all the unabashed excitement about my music from many of the locals who really keep our artistry afloat.
ZT: What is your musical goal for 2026?
KW : In 2026, my goal is to find a great producer in the Southeast Texas area so I can share all my music or find an established artist to cut some of my songs, so I can focus on writing and being a mom.
ZT: Where is the best place for people to find out where you’re playing next (website, social media)?
KW : Facebook.com/katelynwillismusic
FISHING on the Island
Experienced Fishing Advice To Make Fishing Great Again
Serious Tackle Box The
With Chris Gonzales
Waaa-hoo!
What in our Texas offshore waters is fast, flashy, and colorful? Well, it’s not a fish, although the description fits quite a few of them out there. It’s actually a family of lures used primarily for casting that can also be trolled, called bombs and bullets. They originated in the fertile minds of southern California’s long-range fishermen in the late 80s and early 90s. Their target species was Mexico’s also flashy, fast, and colorful Wahoo. These lures caught them then and are still catching them now. They also generate strikes from our Texas wahoo, (or should it be... “Waaa-hoo”?).
I’ve also taken kingfish, dolphin, red snapper, and amberjack over the past 14 years or so with them and a ling of 72 pounds was caught by one of Galveston’s pier fishermen using one of them — these things work!
The Serious Tackle Bomb, like most others, has a “sliding head” design which also has a couple of important features; the spinner blade-to-hook arrangement and the beads and stop crimp on its cable leader. The spinner blade to the hook attachment is simple as it has minimal water resistance on the retrieve which helps in attaining and maintaining a high speed. The beads and stop crimp come into play after the hookup since the thru-holed lead head and skirt can freely slide along the leader. This ability of the head and skirt to slide on the leader is good and bad. The good part is that a head-shaking wahoo or kingfish can’t use the weight of the head to possibly help dislodge the hook. The bad thing is that, after the hookup, the head and skirt could be slung up the cable leader to the solid ring or swivel where it may trigger a second strike, which will likely result in a cutoff. Since your wahoo or kingfish will probably have some of their toothy friends and family in the immediate area, this is a real problem. The bead and stop crimp prevent the head from going to the solid ring or swivel, eliminating the problem. See the illustration.
KINGFISH / WAHOO BOMB
Black Swivel
Beads & Stop Crimp
Serious Tackle Bomb
5.2 oz Thru-Hole Lead Head With Trailing Mylar Prism Skirt
8/0 MUSTAD
9510XXS Siwash Hook
Crimped Cable W/Anti-Chafe Spring Over Cable At Hook Eye
80#, 49 Strand Cable, 24” Long
Weighing in at around 6 oz. and 5 1/2” in head and skirt total length, the bomb or bullet can be cast or trolled (5-7 knots) for a variety of species. The near-surface area is their domain; fooling and hooking wahoo and smoker kingfish is their design specialty. Don’t forget to have your cap with a dark underbill and polarized sunglasses properly installed on your head. These are two critical items that greatly increase your sight fishing success in the near-surface area where most wahoo and kingfish roam.
The colors, flash of the spinner blade, and retrieve speed are what make these lures work. This factor is a big one — if you have wahoo and kingfish following your bomb but not striking, your retrieve speed is likely
Serious Tackle Custom
too slow. Color and flash will get a wahoo’s attention, but it’s mostly the speed that triggers a strike. A high retrieve speed is important, such as a 6:1 retrieve, in that you can slow it down as needed. A reel with, say, a 4:1 retrieve ratio can only be turned so fast and it will still only provide a retrieve speed that’s too slow to excite one of these “speed merchants” into striking. Wahoo have also been known to burst through the water’s surface close to the boat side while chasing one of these high-speed lures. A good procedure to follow is to slow your retrieve about 15 feet or so from the boat side. They have, on occasion, ended up on deck amongst the fishermen on some of those long-range trips out of San Diego. Don’t be the first one to make it happen in our waters.
Most of my casting rigs are spooled up with at least 300 yards of 100 lb. braided line either blue, white, or hi-vis yellow. My Shimano, Avet, or Accurate with its 6.2 to 1 or higher retrieve ratio, is loaded to full spool with 100 lb. braided line. The braided line gives you the advantage of its virtually zero stretch. When cast at maximum distance and the strike comes quickly, that lack of stretch gives you a hookset that can’t be matched by anyone’s mono. I fish my braided line with the drag set at 15 lbs. Its small diameter has these advantages: high capacity of higher strength line; spool diameter stays high longer, which allows longer casts and smoother drag operation. This is all because the reel spool has to make fewer revolutions per foot of line going out or coming back. Maximum spool diameter results in longer casting distance, faster retrieval, and smoother drag
performance. These are three items that you want in your favor. Start with a full spool of line. Also, don’t forget that an almost stretchless braided line will give surer hook sets over springy mono and braided lines small diameter helps those first three items happen. Blue, white, or hi-vis yellow braided line lets you see where your line is at all times, day or night, while also allowing other fishermen to see it which helps avoid crossed lines, tangles, etc. For stealth with these high visibility colors, I color the first 15 feet or so above the swivel, or welded ring, with a blue split top Marks-A-Lot®.
On the cast, slow it down with a little additional thumb pressure on the spool; what this gets you is a wahoo bomb/bullet that’s straightened out and away from you and ready for an un-fouled landing and sink. Depending on where the target is believed to be holding, let it sink 5 to 50 feet and wind back like mad with your rod tip pointed at the line’s entry into the water. At the strike, keep winding until your line is loaded, you feel the weight of the fish and the drag starts to slip. Then and only then, raise the tip loading the rod. Not using this procedure will result in missed hookups - I guarantee it.
Back to the retrieve speed for a moment — believe me, you can’t wind too fast. Use a rotating wrist motion rather than a bending elbow and rotating shoulder motion. The wrist roll provides a much faster retrieve speed - you can simply turn your reel handle faster.
Wahoo bombs and bullets are under-utilized off the Texas coast and I believe we have to remember and use these techniques that have been put
into a sort of retirement. Remember that a TV re-run is new if you’ve never seen it. The same goes for these great working bomb or bullet-type lures. They are tried and proven “fish catchers”. Cast them around any structure that could hold wahoo or kingfish such as rigs, wrecks, and anchored shrimp boats when they are out there. Blind casting in these areas can result in a drag-screaming run that few fish can match, they’re like being hooked onto a lightning bolt. A blazing run toward, then around the boat, isn’t uncommon either. Regaining slack line is made a lot easier with that high retrieve ratio reel.
The Serious Tackle wahoo bombs are available here at Serious Tackle. Armed with your braid-filled high-speed reel and matching rod, cast and then wind like mad and hang on. The next reaction to that first blazing, drag-screaming run may be a “Waaa-Hoo!” of your own.
If you have any questions, stop by Serious Tackle or email me at chris@serioustackle.com
Chris Gonzales Owner - Serious Tackle
Pro Fishing Gear & Tackle
Rigged Wahoo Bomb
PARKING,
Friday, February 6th
NEW: Mardi Gras Street Circus 6:00p - Midnight | 22nd Street Stage
George P. Mitchell Mardi Gras Award Honoree Parade 7pm | Strand District
Funky Uptown Umbrella Brigade 8:30pm | Strand District
Da Krewe du Roux’s Gumbeaux Gras Parade 10:00pm | Strand District Saturday, February 7th
Mystic Krewe of Aquarius Parade 12pm | Seawall to The Strand District Annual Zaniest Golf Cart 1pm | Strand District
100.3 The Bull’s Ragin Cajun Bull Ride + Art Car & Jeep Parade 3pm | Strand District
NEW: Mardi Gras Street Circus 3:00p - 9:00p | 22nd Street Stage
Friday, February 13th
NEW: Mardi Gras Street Circus
6:00p - Midnight | 22nd Street Stage
Danny Weber Memorial Fire Truck Parade – 6:30p | Strand District
Krewe Babalu All Krewe Parade 7:30p | Strand District
Mardi Gras! Galveston Parade 9:00p | Strand District
NEW: Mardi Gras Street Circus 3:00p - 9:00p | 22nd Street Stage
Ben E Keith Parade 4:00p | Strand District
Jumpin’ Jays Bumpin’ Bus Parade with Grand Marshal Edgar Medina 5pm | Strand District
Knights of Momus Grand Night Parade 6:00p | 25th & Seawall to the Strand District
Sunday, February 15th
Shriners for Children & Sunshine Kids Parade 12pm | Strand District
Krewe of Barkus and Meoux Parade 1:30p | Strand District.
Firefighter’s Children’s Parade 3pm | Strand District
Tuesday, February 17th
Mystic Krew of Aquarius 6:30pm | Strand District.
Class Heroes
Friday, February 13th @ 10:30pm Corona Stage | 23rd & Strand, Saengerfest Park
Beach Bum The
Happy February, Wavers - Someone used an old saying around me the other day. They said, “We all slow down with age.” I don’t know that I truly believe that.
I had an idea 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...
Rock stars are supposed to slow down with age, but no one seems to have told these artists. In 2025, some of music’s most seasoned performers logged tons of live shows, often outpacing artists half their age.
Your Bum has created a Top 10 list for you. Talent, experience, and stamina still rule the world!
Still on the Road: 2025’s Hardest-Working Legacy Musical Acts
ZZ Top - 90 Concerts
Yes, that ZZ Top. The band topped many touring tallies simply by never stopping, favoring steady one-night stands over splashy mega-tours. Their famously minimal stage setup allows them to load in fast, play tight, and move on to the next town.
Bob Dylan - 75 concerts
The “Never Ending Tour” lived up to its name once again. Dylan continues to reinvent his own songs nightly, often rearranging them so thoroughly that even longtime fans lean in to catch the melody.
Willie Nelson - 70 concerts
Between festivals, benefit shows, and short runs, Willie remained one of 2025’s most visible live performers. His weathered guitar, “Trigger,” complete with its own security protocol, logged nearly as many miles as Willie himself.
Bruce Springsteen & The E Street
Band - 65 concerts
Springsteen’s shows are still legendary endurance tests, frequently stretching past the three-hour mark. Despite the scale, the band often tweaks setlists on the fly, keeping performances unpredictable.
Chicago - 60 concerts
Quietly one of the most consistent touring acts in rock history, Chicago thrives on multi-night runs and tight scheduling. Their horn section rehearses separately to maintain the band’s signature precision.
The Doobie Brothers - 55 concerts
With a catalog built for live crowds, the Doobies kept their shows brisk and no-nonsense. Their setlists are carefully engineered to minimize downtime, a subtle endurance trick learned over decades.
Journey - 50 concerts
Journey remained a staple of amphitheaters and casino venues in 2025. The band is known for unusually long soundchecks, aiming to recreate their classic studio sound as faithfully as possible.
Santana - 45 concerts
Carlos Santana blended residencies with traditional touring throughout the year. A lesser-known ritual: he frequently meditates backstage before shows, regardless of venue size.
Eagles - 40 concerts
Through extended residencies and selective touring, the Eagles packed many performances into fewer cities. Their famously meticulous harmonies require constant rehearsal, even for long-familiar songs.
The Rolling Stones - 35 concerts
While playing fewer dates than some peers, the Stones still mounted one of the year’s most physically demanding tours. Mick Jagger’s fitness routine reportedly rivals that of professional athletes.
Encore Thought
In an era dominated by streaming metrics and viral moments, these artists quietly proved that the road still separates legends from the rest. In 2025, legacy acts didn’t just relive their past — they outworked the present.
BUM STUMPER
Your Bum will bet you he can stump you with this celebrity picture.
Who ya think?
Answer on page 75
PET PEEVES Of The Month
Being A Long Time Loyal Customer With A Business And Paying Higher Rates Than A Newcomer
Many of us have experienced this: being a long - time loyal customer of a business or service, only to discover that we’re being charged higher rates than someone who just walked in the door.
Whether it’s cable TV, utility companies, cell phone service, internet providers, or countless other industries, loyal customers often end up paying more than people who have never spent a dime with the company. We’ve seen this frustrating business practice repeated again and again.
Wouldn’t it make far more sense for a business to reward its long - time customers for their loyalty? Why penalize the people who stay while offering the best deals to newcomers?
And let’s be honest—newcomers usually aren’t loyal. They’ll shop around and switch providers the moment their contract ends.
Do we enjoy being taken advantage of as long - time customers? Do we like paying higher rates than someone who has never used the service before?
NO!
WE DON’T LIKE THAT!
It’s time for all of us to speak up and demand that loyal customers receive the best possible rates—not the worst.
Happy
Mulch
A Gardener’s Friend!
When it comes to growing happy plants, mulch is the one thing you can do and, in every situation, it is the right choice.
The benefits of mulch are many. Mulch keeps roots cool in hot weather. Mulch retains moisture and helps conserve water. Mulch protects the soil and its microorganisms. And last but certainly not least- mulch breaks down into compost which is the BEST fertilizer for your plants.
When mulch begins to break down into compost, you will see little white threads of fungus running through the layers closest to the soil. This is NOT a problem; this is a GOOD thing. Leave it alone and let it be.
Because mulch breaks down into compost, there is no need to rake out old mulch when it is time to put down new mulch. About once every six months, in spring and fall, add an additional 3 inches of mulch to your gardens and beds.
The Big Question Is What Type Of Mulch?
Shredded hardwood mulch is the best choice for a groomed look in your gardens. The microorganisms that are needed to break down the types of wood in this mulch are native to our soils. This means that the mulch will be turned into compost posthaste.
If you aren’t so concerned with aesthetics, use shredded leaves and pine needles. These will break down quickly and make GREAT compost.
Shredded Cedar is a great choice for deterring insects and doing all the things that mulch does, but it will take longer to break down into compost.
Cypress does not make a very good mulch because the cypress will petrify versus break down into compost. You then have a layer of material that is a lot like concrete.
For more great information, go to: www.hollykross.com
Mulch , Mulch , Mulch !
R eflections
by: John & Kathy Valastro
Shriner’s Hospital – A Gift to Children
I know how giving my island friends are, but we all question ourselves at times as to who or what organization is most worthy of our charity. Today it is more difficult than ever to know who is soliciting for donations, thanks to AI and the tenacity of individuals or organized criminals taking advantage of our generosity. Instead of being wary and not giving at all, let’s do our part to make sure we are not taken advantage of.
In this reflection, I want to share or focus on Shriners Children’s Texas in Galveston. The core mission is to provide exceptional, compassionate, and family-centered care to children with burn injuries, spinal cord injuries, cleft lip/palate, and orthopedic/neuromuscular conditions, regardless of a family’s ability to pay, while also conducting research and educating healthcare professionals to improve children’s lives globally. They focus on transformative healing in a supportive environment, aiming for zero disability and absence of pain.
Key Aspects of Their Mission:
• Specialized Care: Focus on pediatric burns, spinal cord injuries, cleft lip/palate, and orthopedic/neuromuscular issues.
• No Cost to Families: Care is provided regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.
• Family-Centered Approach: Addressing the whole child (physical, emotional, social) in a collaborative setting.
• Research & Education: Advancing medical knowledge and training future healthcare leaders.
• Compassion & Innovation: Providing high-quality, personalized care with cutting-edge treatments.
In essence, Shriners Children’s Texas transforms lives through specialized pediatric care, hope, and healing for children with complex needs.
Types of Volunteer Roles
• Hospital Support: Assisting with patient navigation, delivering treats, providing activities (coloring, toys), and offering general help to families.
Why is this important? Many of our islander readers have ties to the medical field, are retired, and/or feel compelled to volunteer their time to a worthy cause or organization. Shriners could be that place you might consider.
According to AI and their website, Shriners offers extensive volunteer programs with opportunities ranging from helping patients and families in the hospital (guiding, assisting with wheelchairs, providing activities) to supporting special events like fundraisers and golf tournaments, and even assisting with adaptive sports and recreation programs, with specific needs varying by location. Volunteers are vital for creating a positive atmosphere and fundraising to support the children’s life-changing care.
• Recreational Therapy: Helping with adaptive biking, kayaking, snowshoeing, and other fun activities.
• Fundraising & Events: Supporting community fundraisers, golf tournaments (like the Shriners Open), bake sales, and other special events.
• Peer Support: Connecting with other patients with similar diagnoses.
How to Get Involved
• Visit the Shriners Children’s Website: Go to the specific location you’re interested in (e.g., Portland, New England) and check their “Patient Programs” or “Ways to Give” sections.
• Contact the Volunteer Department: Reach out directly to the volunteer services department at your local hospital for specific opportunities.
• Look for Special Events: Check out events like the Shriners Hospitals for Children Open for large-scale volunteer needs.
Requirements (May Vary)
• Some locations may require you to be over 18.
• Background checks and specific health/immunization policies must be met.
To find out about opportunities near you, you can start by visiting the main Shriners Children’s website and searching for your nearest location to see their specific volunteer needs.
So, if you are looking to be charitable and wanting to keep Shriners vibrant in Galveston, please consider charitable donations or volunteering.
• Fresh seafood restaurants with live music for casual waterfront dining
• Charming boutiques, lively festivals, and plenty of family-friendly events
• 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
Cookin’ Column
Happy February, my sweet loved ones! Brrrr! Bunny’s been trying her best to keep warm with a few cozy dishes, but you know how it goes on this island, one minute we’re shivering, the next we’re shimmying. Mardi Gras is calling!
This month, I’m giving y’all a recipe to keep you all cozy and another one to get you parade-ready for Mardi Gras. First up is a dish that’ll warm your toes and your temperament on these chilly island nights, my Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini. Then, once you’re good and thawed out, we’re stepping straight into Mardi Gras season with a Gumbo Pot Pie that struts onto the table like it just caught the first bead of the night.
Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini
Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini will make you want to loosen your belt, sigh happily, and forgive winter for overstaying its welcome. It’s so rich and creamy in all the right ways, and so satisfyingly cheesy that even the coldest winter night starts to feel downright friendly. And that crunchy golden topping, well, that’s the part that makes you close your eyes for a moment and think that maybe these cold nights could hang on just a little while longer (well, maybe).
Ingredients
• 2 large chicken breasts
• 2 Tbsp Knorr chicken bouillon
• 16 oz spaghetti, broken in half before boiling
• 2 to 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 Tbsp minced garlic
• 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of chicken soup
• 8 oz sour cream
• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup heavy cream
Seasonings for the Sauce
• 1 tsp Tony’s Creole seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook Chicken
• Place chicken breasts in a large stockpot and fill it about three quarters of the way with water. Add bouillon.
• 1½ cups reserved chicken broth, be sure to save extra before draining, in case more is needed
• 1 (10 oz) frozen spinach, thawed, squeezed dry
• 8 oz Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
• About 3 oz French fried onions, crushed by hand
• Boil until chicken is cooked through (165°F), about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove chicken, shred or dice.
Cook Pasta in Broth
• In the same pot of broth, crack the spaghetti noodles in half and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving at least 2 cups of broth, you’ll likely need around 1½ cups, but keep extra just in case.
Make the Sauce
• In a skillet or Dutch oven, melt butter and sauté onion with all the seasonings (Tony’s, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and pepper) until onion is translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add garlic, cook 1 more minute.
• Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the cream of chicken soup. Add
Creamy Chicken Tetrazzini
Velveeta and stir until melted. Add about ¾ cup of the reserved chicken broth and mix well.
• Once everything is smooth, stir in sour cream, the thawed and squeezed spinach, and about half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese.
• Add more broth as needed until the sauce reaches a creamy, pourable consistency, about 1½ cups total usually works.
Assemble
• Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray.
• Add cooked spaghetti noodles first, spreading evenly. Top with shredded chicken. Pour the sauce over everything and gently toss in the baking dish until noodles are fully coated.
• Sprinkle with the remaining Colby Jack and mozzarella cheese. Crush the French fried onions lightly in your hands and sprinkle over the top, about 3 oz.
Bake
• Cover with foil, bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Rest and Serve
• Let casserole sit 10 minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken slightly.
Now that we’re all warm and cozy, my friends, let’s talk about what happens when Galveston trades its sweaters for sequins.
Gumbo Pot Pie
A cozy little parade in a dish
Ingredients
For the filling:
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ½ cup diced onion
• ½ cup diced green bell pepper
• ½ cup diced celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 ounces andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
For the topping:
• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
• Start the flavor parade -Sauté the onion, bell pepper, and celery in oil until soft. Add garlic and cook another minute.
• Add the good stuff - Stir in the sausage and chicken. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir until absorbed.
• Optional, sliced okra or a few shrimp for extra Mardi Gras flair
• Make it saucy - Pour in the broth and stir until it thickens into a gumbo like gravy. Season to taste. Add okra or shrimp if you’re feeling festive.
• Assemble the pies - Spoon the filling into ramekins or a small casserole. Top with puff pastry, trim edges, vent the top, and brush with egg.
• Bake until “gold and bubbly”- Bake at 400°F for 20 to 25 minutes, until puffed and beautifully browned.
Gumbo Pot Pie
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Waves Magazine Announces Launch of “Waves On Air” Podcast
Galveston, TX — Waves Magazine, Galveston’s trusted source for entertainment, dining, lifestyle, and local culture, proudly announces the launch of its new weekly multimedia podcast, Waves On Air, hosted by publisher Mike Burke.
Launching February 2026, Waves On Air expands the magazine’s mission by bringing Galveston’s stories to life through long-form conversations, on-location features, and behind-the-scenes insights from the island’s most influential and interesting voices.
Each episode will spotlight Galveston business owners, chefs, musicians, artists, nonprofit leaders, innovators, and community personalities, offering listeners a deeper look at the people shaping the island’s identity. From restaurant success stories and creative journeys to local history, hidden gems, and upcoming events, Waves On Air aims to become a central hub for authentic island storytelling.
“For eight years, Waves Magazine has celebrated the heartbeat of Galveston,” said Mike Burke, publisher and host of Waves On Air. “This podcast allows us to go even further — to sit down with the people behind the stories, hear their voices, and share the passion that makes this island unlike anywhere else.”
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.
Waves On Air will be available in both video and audio formats, making it accessible to audiences wherever they prefer to watch or listen.
The podcast also introduces new opportunities for local business sponsorships, cross-promotion, and community partnerships. Businesses featured in the show will receive additional visibility through Waves Magazine’s print, digital, and social platforms.
“Galveston is full of incredible stories waiting to be told,”
Burke added. “Our goal is to uplift local voices, support small businesses, and give residents and visitors a deeper connection to the island we all love.”
For updates, episode releases, and behind-the-scenes content, visit: www.wavesgalveston.com/podcast www.galvestoncountybusinessdirectory.com/podcast
