Waves July 2025

Contributors Richard

Mike Burke|Publisher

BURKE’S BRIEFS

July 2025

Happy July, Wavers!

July is always such a fun time to be in Galveston. Whether you are a local or a visitor, there is always so much to do.

There are countless attractions, events, theater shows, and concerts taking place this month. Take in as many as you can and support our local entertainers and businesses. You can keep up with our thriving Galveston live music scene by checking out the very talented musician and writer Zach Tate’s Texas Music Profile on Page 60. No one knows the live music scene as Zach does.

Be sure to absorb our expanded Waves Restaurant Section. Dine out often and support our terrific Galveston restaurants. They deserve it.

Please be kind and courteous to our Galveston visitors. Tourism is extremely important to our local businesses. I remember a television ad from years past that said a tourist’s most memorable moment may be about a local they met. Let’s show them true Galveston hospitality.

As always, please shop and BUY LOCAL! See you around the island...

PET Corner

Ronin, The Superhero Rat

Rats are not likely to make the top ten list of people’s favorite animals. In fact, the sight of a rat crawling on a kitchen counter is likely to make even the most macho man scream like a preschooler. Images of hordes of rats in New York City dragging away discarded pizza slices give me and most humans the willies.

Not all rats are disliked in the world. African pouched rats, also known as Gambian giant rats, are trained by an organization APOPO ( AntiPersonal Landmine Removal Project) to detect the smell of TNT, the principal explosive in land mines. The rats are fitted with harnesses hooked up to a tether line and allowed to move across fields suspected of having live mines. If TNT is detected, the rats will not leave the spot. They are rewarded with a banana, their favorite food, each time they find a mine.

The rats are too light to set off the mines, so they are not harmed. Bomb deactivation experts take over and explode the mine from a distance. These trained rats are credited with saving hundreds of lives. Since the Vietnam War, 64,000 people have been killed or severely injured by land mines left buried in Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. As a result of these special rats, not only are saving lives, but valuable farmland can now be used to produce food again for the people that live there.

Rats have also detected many mines left after the long civil wars in Mozambique and Angola. The lowly rats, maligned by society, are saving the lives of people in war-stricken areas. The trained rats are now held in high esteem by the locals who see the results of their amazing work.

One rat named Ronin has made it into the Guinness Book of World Records for his skill at detecting unexploded land mines. His keen sense of smell and some incredible training turned him into a Superhero, mine-sniffing rodent. In his eight years of life, he detected over one hundred live land mines buried in Cambodia and Africa. After Ronin found a mine, the trained experts would explode it from a distance making it no longer a threat to human life. Ronin, like most of the trained Gambian rats, are very trainable, gentle to handle, and will work for cheap - ripe banana treats.

Gambian rats were becoming popular in the pet trade years ago. The three-foot-long, three-pound giant rodents made quite intelligent and friendly pets. However, the species was suspected

of carrying the monkeypox virus spreading it to humans and starting an epidemic in 1922.

It was suspected that some pet rats were set free in Florida, started reproducing, and were at risk of becoming an invasive species. For these reasons, they have been banned from pet ownership in America and many other countries. Special permits are required to obtain and keep one for use in explosive detection.

It has recently been learned that the giant rats can detect the smell of tuberculosis infection in people. Their abilities are sometimes more accurate than the medical tests used to diagnose people with TB. As over one million people die of tuberculosis annually, giant rats may be able to save even more lives. Research is ongoing now to see if Gambian giant rats can detect the novel smells of certain cancer cells in people before the medical tests can. It is hard to believe that a rat may be more accurate at detecting a disease than a doctor and a million-dollar MRI machine. One day we may go in for our annual doctor’s visits only to be greeted by a nurse, physician, and their trained assistant, a Giant Gambian rat.

Sounds exciting to me, but I’m sure not to all.

I don’t blame you for letting out a scream if a rat runs across your living room floor. After you compose yourself remember there are rats in the world like Ronin that are saving lives.

D. Henderson, DVM

Galveston Veterinary Clinic 2108 61st Street

Galveston, TX 77551

Richard

Ronin sniffs for landmines in a mine field in Preah Vihear province, Cambodia. - Handout/AFP/APOPO/Getty Images

I had an excellent experience with Cynthia. I had just 4 days to find my home in Galveston as I am moving from another state. Cynthia made herself

We feel incredibly fortunate to have had Cynthia and The Corder Team on our side! As first-time home sellers and buyers, the entire process was seamless —from selling our home in Galveston to finding our new forever home in Texas City. We’ll definitely be recommending Cynthia and her team to all our family and friends.

MISTI C. | buyer & seller

readily available during that time and made the experience fun to boot. Her knowledge and her services to anyone in need of a realtor.

CAROL F. | buyer

recommend her team enough! She helped me in the

Cynthia and her team were outstanding professional, knowledgeable, and highly efficient. Their communication throughout the entire process of renting my homes was clear and reassuring, making the experience seamless and stress-free. I highly recommend Cynthia and her team, whether you re renting, selling, or looking to buy a home. You ll be in excellent hands.

process of selling and buying our house!!! Absolutely amazing! If you want a great real estate agent and team, go with them! You will not regret it!

DIANE C. | landlord

MADDIE L. | buyer & seller

CYNTHIA CORDER

SCAN QR CODE FOR ALL LISTINGS

Re l ati o nshipAd v ic e with Jan & Dean

Hi Jan & Dean,

My husband Dave and I have always loved Galveston. We would visit any chance we got. This past year we made our dream come true and bought our forever home here. We absolutely love being full-time residents.

Our problem is that Dave’s sister and her family have tried to make our home their own home too. What started out as a weekend visit every few months has now turned into a complete disaster. They now come down and want to stay for a week or more at a time. On this last visit, they stayed for two whole weeks. They are now talking about spending a full month with us this summer. I cannot stand any more of this!

While they are here, they completely wreck our house. They have 3 small children who run wild with absolutely no supervision. Their parents explained to me that they don’t believe in telling their children “no”. They claim it hurts their self-esteem. Give me a break!

On top of that, none of them ever helps with any household chores. I get stuck with everything, including doing their laundry and cooking every meal. It is also a financial drain. They never help with buying groceries or anything else. They have turned our home into their free vacation playland.

Ben Franklin was a very wise man. One of his most famous sayings is that “guests, like fish, begin to smell after three days.” After a certain period of time, guests or relatives can become burdensome or unpleasant, similar to how fish become smelly after a few days. Your husband needs to step up and put an end to this situation immediately. You deserve to be able to enjoy your home.

Hi Debbie. What a mess! A lot of this, actually all of it, is caused by your husband’s refusal to deal with it. I may have a solution.

I have had it, Jan & Dean! I no longer want Dave’s family here. I have talked to Dave about this and he says he knows it is a hardship, but he just can’t get up the nerve to tell his sister she is not welcome here.

I have reached the end of my rope! What was once my dream come true has turned into my worst nightmare. Please help me.

Debbie Is Devastated

Hi Debbie. I truly feel your pain. What you are going through is an unbearable situation. You are being taken advantage of. To make matters worse, your husband refuses to do anything about it. This has to be putting a real strain on your marriage.

I have a doctor friend who is a surgeon. I’m going to see if we can set up an appointment with him so he can install a backbone in your husband’s body. That is what needs to happen.

Seriously, your husband needs to put his foot down and stop this now. He can’t put everyone else’s feelings above yours. He needs to make your happiness his priority. I sincerely hope you get this resolved and get to experience a wonderful summer in your Galveston home.

rivia

Challenge

1. Changing Waters

Galveston’s water changes color often — from brown to green to blue — due to a combination of:

a) Phytoplankton blooms b) Sediment runoff

c) Saltwater inflow d) All of the above

2. The Giant Seawall

Galveston’s Seawall is the world’s longest continuous sidewalk. How tall is it at its highest point?

a) 10 ft b) 17 ft c) 25 ft d) 33 ft

3. What’s in a Name?

Galveston was named after a Spanish noble, but who actually named Galveston Bay?

a) Cabeza de Vaca b) José de Evía c) RenéRobert Cavelier d) Alonso Álvarez de Pineda

Galveston & the Gulf Trivia

4. A Nursery

What seafood favorite depends on Galveston Bay’s marshes and seagrass beds to grow up? a) Shrimp b) Bluefin tuna c) Tarpon d) Dolphins

5. The Storm That Changed Everything

The Great Storm of 1900 remains the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history. How many lives were lost? a) 1,000–3,000 b) 3,500–5,500 c) 6,000–12,000 d) 15,000–20,000

6. Glamour Over the Gulf

Which overwater nightclub hosted stars like Frank Sinatra and was swept away by Hurricane Ike? a) Hotel Galvez b) Balinese Room c) Beach Hotel d) Electric Pavilion

7. Sailing Through Time

11. The Original Playground

Once boasting luxury pools and electric lights, what historic Galveston hotel earned the nickname “Playground of the South”?

a) Moody Gardens b) Pleasure Pier c) Electric Pavilion d) The Beach Hotel

12. Pirate Roots

Which legendary privateer used Galveston Island as his smuggling base in the 1800s? a) Jean Lafitte b) Blackbeard c) Anne Bonny d) Henry Morgan

13. From Customs to Cowboys

Which Galveston museum — once a U.S. Customs House — now features Old West artifacts and rare documents? a) The Bryan Museum b) Texas Seaport Museum c) Ocean Star Museum d) Railroad Museum

14. Tall Ship’s Home Port

Where can you climb aboard the historic ELISSA and explore Galveston’s seafaring legacy? a) Galveston Naval Base b) Pier 21 c) Texas Seaport Museum d) Moody Gardens

15. Mardi Gras Madness

Galveston’s Mardi Gras is one of the nation’s largest. What’s its national ranking? a) 2nd b) 4th c) 3rd d) 5th

16. First Name, First People

Before “Galveston,” the island had this name, meaning “Isle of Misfortune.” a) Malhado b) Aksóbo c) Aukotsa d) Karankawa Haven

Which restored 1877 tall ship still docks in Galveston as a floating museum today? a) SS Selma b) Elissa c) Balinese d) Crockett

8. Island’s First Residents

Before settlers arrived, which nomadic tribe wintered along Galveston Island’s shores? a) Karankawa b) Akokisa (Atakapan) c) Coahuiltecan d) Caddo

9. Texas Tech Trendsetters

Which of these technologies first appeared in Texas right here in Galveston? a) Gaslights b) Telephone c) Electric lights d) All of the above

10. A Biodiverse Backyard

Roughly how many species call the Gulf home? a) 5,000 b) 10,000 c) 15,000 d) 25,000

17. Hidden Coral Reefs

What is the main mission of the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary near Galveston? a) Offshore oil drilling b) Coral reef protection c) Military testing d) Shipwreck preservation

18. First Curtain Call

Which cultural “first” did Galveston achieve in the state of Texas? a) Post office b) Naval base c) Public hospital d) Opera house

19. Federal Recognition

What year did Juneteenth — rooted in Galveston — become a U.S. federal holiday? a) 1865 b) 1979 c) 2005 d) 2021

20. Gilded Architecture

The Moody Mansion is a landmark of Galveston — what style was it built in? a) Art Deco b) Victorian c) Greek Revival d) Romanesque

Galveston’s Premier Custom Jewelers

HEALTH & FITNESS

FOCUS Summer Fruit Is Summer Nutrition

ON FITNESS

Shaye Henderson, BSN, M.Ed., M.S., Instructor at Bent On Healthy Living Wellness Center, 2910 53rd Street, Galveston

As a kid, most of my summer months were spent at my maternal grandparents’ house in Hope, Arkansas. My family and I were treated to fresh everything there; fresh fruits, fresh home-grown vegetables, fresh air, fresh dirt to get covered in while we played outside in the 95-plus degree heat all day! Fresh, local produce was available on just about every corner.

As summer becomes a blazing hot reality, one of the benefits we reap is the incredible selection of summer fruits. Eating fruits in peak season gets you maximum color, flavor, and nutritional value. Fruit is nutritious year-round, whether fresh, frozen, or canned. However, the nutritional content is highest just after the fruit ripens.

Researchers believe that people who eat four to five servings of fruit daily, as part of a well-balanced diet, may reduce their risk for many diseases. Summer fruit is loaded with essential nutrients:

• Vitamin A – important for good vision and skin health, helps the heart and lungs work properly.

• Vitamin C – boosts immune function, keeps skin supple, and helps bones heal.

• Lycopene – an antioxidant linked to decreased risk of cancer, heart disease, and age-related eye disorders.

• Potassium – helps to lower blood pressure and ease muscle cramps.

Here are a few of the most nutritious, flavorful summer fruits to enjoy this summer:

Cherries (July): High in vitamin C, cherries help muscle recovery after exercise and boost immune health. Cherries are especially high in polyphenols, a large group of plant chemicals that help fight cellular damage, reduce inflammation, and promote overall health.

Blueberries (July-August): These “superfoods” are low in calories but packed with nutrients, making them a perfect snack. The cancer-fighting agents found in blueberries include anthocyanosides and resveratrol. Anthocyanosides are one of the most potent antioxi-

dants and have several anticancer properties, including radical scavenging activity, stimulation of detoxifying enzymes, and reduced cell proliferation and inflammation. Along with promoting cardiovascular health, resveratrol can inhibit all stages of carcinogenesis.

Peaches (July-September): Peaches are rich in potassium, which supports heart health and keeps you feeling great. They are a source of fiber, which can improve digestion. Peaches also contain antioxidants and can support immune, eye, and skin health.

Apples (July-October): Apples are high in fiber, promoting regular bowel movements and overall digestive health. They also contain antioxidants and phytochemicals.

Watermelon (August-October): According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, watermelon has a 92% water content and will keep you well-hydrated and refreshed on hot summer days.

Did you know watermelon has more lycopene than any other fresh fruit or vegetable?

There are so many ways to incorporate summer fruits into your day besides opening the fridge and grabbing a freshly washed piece. Summer fruit can be used to create side dishes, salsa, desserts, and drinks.

• For a delicious side dish or dessert, grill large slices of watermelon for 30 seconds on each side. Grilling enhances its natural, sweet flavor.

• Serve fruit kebabs. Slice peaches, nectarines, pineapple, and watermelon into cubes. Place on skewers and grill for three to five minutes per side. If you prefer, serve chilled fruit kebabs.

• Create a colorful fruit salad with strawberries, blueberries, grapes, and melon. Whip up a dressing with vanilla yogurt and lemon juice.

• Make a sweet and savory watermelon salad with watermelon chunks, cucumber, red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.

• For you carnivores, try a peach-mango salsa with grilled salmon, chicken, pork, or appetizers. Slice the fruit into small cubes. Add onion, jalapeno, and lime juice. Or make a different salsa with strawberries, melon, and berries.

• Cool off with fresh fruit snow cones. Blend strawberries and agave nectar in a food processor and pour over shaved ice.

• Make watermelon slushies in a blender with watermelon, ice, honey, and lime juice.

• Blend fresh fruit into a nutritious smoothie with your favorite ingredients, especially protein-rich nuts and seeds.

Before the summer ends, freeze your favorite fruit in zippered bags so you can enjoy these nutritious fruits in the months to come.

Now, back to my memories of summers in Hope, Arkansas. I’m positive I ate my weight in Hope watermelons several times over every summer. You see, Hope, Arkansas, is the Watermelon Capital of the World and home to the world’s largest watermelon, year after year.

The largest watermelon ever recorded was grown in Hope by Lloyd Bright, weighing 268.8 pounds in 2005.

There’s even a festival every August celebrating Hope’s claim to fame. In case you’re looking for a quick summer road trip, this year’s festival is August 7 – 9, when the watermelons will be at their ripest, most delicious!

Happy summer, y’all.

Shaye Henderson, BSN, M.Ed., M.S., Instructor at Bent On Healthy Living Wellness Center, 2910 53rd Street, Galveston

GC’s Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management program is fast track to in-demand, high-paying careers

What if a two-year degree could launch you into one of Texas’ highest-paying, fastestgrowing industries?

At Galveston College, the Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management program is doing just that, by preparing students to take on pivotal roles in industries that keep the world moving. From coordinating aerospace parts across continents to ensuring medical supplies reach hospitals on time, this field is the unseen force behind modern life, with limitless opportunities.

With average salaries topping $80,990 in the Houston-Galveston area and $77,347 statewide, according to the U.S. News and World Report, logistics and supply chain professionals are in high demand across industries such as medical, aerospace, aeronautics, maritime, manufacturing, food service and retail.

“This isn’t just a job, it’s a career with global reach,” said Galveston College Program Director for Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Daniel Alcantar. “If you’re organized, strategic, and ready to solve realworld problems, this program is a gateway to mission-critical roles in every major industry.”

Whether you’re planning global shipments for a medical device manufacturer, managing the cold chain in food logistics, tracking aerospace components, or optimizing retail distribution networks, supply chain professionals are vital.

In a world where speed, precision, and access define business success, logistics and supply chain professionals are the invisible engine behind it all, ensuring products get to where they need to be, when they need to be there. It’s a booming, behind-the-scenes industry that powers everything from your grocery delivery to global manufacturing, and it’s the

second-largest employment sector in Texas.

Employment in logistics careers is not exclusive to a port or a warehouse, supply chains are essential to the smooth operation of all businesses, big and small. There is a wide variety of employment opportunities available in logistics and supply chain management, including supply chain associate, logistics analyst, medical supply chain technician, global sourcing specialist, transportation planner and supply chain data analyst, among others.

The GC Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management program offers:

• Online or in-person, on-campus options

• Financial aid

• Associate degree and/or certificates

• Real-world focused faculty

• Flexibility to balance work/life

Students gain critical negotiation, analytics, and operations planning skills while earning industry-recognized credentials that make them job-ready from day one.

For more information or to apply to the Galveston College Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management program, visit gc.edu/logistics, scan the QR code, call 409944-1412, or email dalcantar@gc.edu.

Galveston College offers certificates and an associate degree in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management. With high average salaries, logistics and supply chain professionals are in high demand across several industries.

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

Quality

Ample

Greetings Wavers! I trust you are enjoying the Island and having “fun in the Sun”! Summer makes me remember baseball. As a kid, I played on a little league baseball team. I wasn’t very good, but it was a lot of fun! This caused me to think about our Island and baseball. What I found was very interesting!

History

This journey into our Island’s history took me down an unexpected path. I never thought I would be reading about the Civil War while researching baseball in Galveston. Let’s start with General Doubleday.

General Doubleday found his way to Galveston on November 4, 1866. He was Commander of the Army’s forces following the Civil War. Doubleday never personally claimed founding baseball, but he was one of its earliest supporters. Doubleday’s arrival to Galveston in 1866 did, however, certainly lead to the first recorded game in the state and subsequently the first official baseball diamond drawn on Texas soil. The Galveston Base Ball Club was formed in January 1867.

Fun Fact: The first official baseball diamond in Texas was drawn in front of the city hospital on the East End.

On January 18 at 3 p.m., the lot in front of the City Hospital, the present-day John Sealy Hospital, would host the first exhibition of the Galveston Base Ball Club. Baseball’s popularity quickly spread to surrounding areas, including Houston. The club held its first inter-city match on April 21, 1868. The game pitted the Houston Stonewalls against the Galveston Robert E. Lees. The Stonewalls won, 35-2.

Over the next twenty years, up until the introduction of play-for-pay baseball in 1888, amateur games and ball clubs quickly sprang up across the Island.

The Early Island Teams

In the first years of Island baseball, there were dozens of teams, but two emerged as the local favorites. The first was the Flyaways, an African American team in Galveston. Their reputation endured despite the country’s entrance into a century of segregation following the war. The other team was the Island City Club formed by local businessman Jeff Tiernan. He was the owner of a cigar shop and popular baseball hangout located at 23rd and Market Street.

Fun Fact: Galveston’s diamond became known as the “little cigar box”. The smaller size of the diamond allegedly made it easier to make home runs.

Baseball skyrocketed in popularity! Soon the professional sport of baseball took over. Local teams and leagues were pushed out for paying professional sports.

Galveston Giants (1888) - The island’s first professional team was called the Galveston Giants. They disbanded after their first season in 1888.

The Sand Crabs (1889) - The torch was then passed to the Galveston Sandcrabs, a team built around members of the Island City Club. George B. Dermody owned the team through its 1896 season.

General Doubleday

The Sand Crabs (1889)

FUN FACTS by thomas waggoner

Fun Fact: The Sandcrabs were crowned Texas League Champions in 1890.

After winning the South Texas League championship in 1897 and 1899, the Sandcrabs took a four-year hiatus before returning to the Southern League in 1903. The next year, the Sandcrabs moved their designated field to Auditorium Park at 27th and Seawall and finished the season with another championship.

During a game against a Houston team that happened to coincide with high tide, a Galveston player hit a home run only to be surprised at home plate by a catcher holding a saltwater-logged baseball. The tide had washed the ball back under the fence, and an ambitious outfielder scooped it up and hurled it homeward. A vehement argument ensued, but the umpire eventually ruled in favor of Galveston who went on to win the game. -By Kimber Fountain

Fun Fact: The Sandcrabs played at Beach Park before the construction of the seawall. The outfield fence was therefore situated right on the beach.

Galveston

Pirates (1912)

Galveston Buccaneers (1931-1937) - The Galveston Buccaneers were a Minor League Baseball team.

Fun Fact: They were named after the Moody’s famous Buccaneer Hotel, which was at 23rd and Seawall Boulevard.

They played in the Texas League. Their home ballpark was Moody Stadium. The Galveston Buccaneers first began play in 1931, when the Waco Cubs relocated to Galveston. Galveston owner Shearn Moody had purchased the Waco franchise, moved the team to Galveston, and constructed Moody Stadium.

Fun Fact: The Galveston Buccaneers were the subject of a 2015 book, “The Galveston Buccaneers” by Kris Rutherford, Arcadia Publishing

From 1902 through the early 1920s, ownership of the Galveston Club changed hands regularly. In 1924, the franchise, players, and territorial rights were sold to the Waco, Texas franchise for $21,100. Galveston stayed out of the Texas League for the next five years. The sport returned to Galveston in 1931 when Shearn Moody bought out the Waco club and brought the team back to the island. The Galveston Buccaneers won the Texas State Championship in 1934. Moody died in 1936, and the subsequent owner sold the team to Shreveport, Louisiana in 1939.

Fun Fact: Galveston has not had a professional baseball team since.

Galveston White Caps (1950) - The Galveston White Caps were founding members of the Class B level Gulf Coast League in 1950. They joined the Big State League in 1954. Galveston won the league’s final regular season title with a record of 94–48. They disbanded in 1955.

Fun Fact: The Galveston “White Caps” moniker is used by the athletic teams at Galveston College.

Early Island Ballparks

Information about the early ballparks wasn’t as easy to find other than location. Today we love to tell stories about the stadiums or home field. Of course, that’s because of history. Here’s what I did discover.

Beach Park (1884-1904) - Beach Park was located at the corner of Avenue Q and & 23rd Street.

The seating capacity of the stadium was 500. In 1895, the bleachers collapsed during a game. The baseball field was located across the street from the Beach Hotel, where patrons were invited to stay. The hotel was built in 1882 and designed by Nicholas J. Clayton. The hotel was advertised as the “finest and best-regulated hotel on the coast” – it was found, however, that the hotel was releasing its sewage into the Gulf of Mexico. Promptly it was

Galveston Buccaneers (1931-1937)

FUN FACTS

closed down by the city.

Fun Fact: It soon mysteriously burned down.

Sportsman’s Park (1905-1911)

Gulfview Park/Pirate Field (1914–1921) - Gulfview Park / Pirate Field was located at 2802 Avenue

R. The ballpark had a capacity of 4,000. It was damaged by a tropical storm on August 15, 1915, and the park was unusable for the remainder of the 1915 season.

Moody Stadium (1931-1943) - Moody Stadium was built at 5108 Avenue G. Beginning in 1931, Galveston minor league baseball teams were starting to play home games at Moody Stadium. It had a capacity of 8,000.

shade during afternoon games.

Fun Fact: Moody Stadium was one of the first minor league stadiums equipped with lights.

It was built of steel, concrete, and cypress. The stadium was situated on Winnie Street, spanning ten acres between 51st and 53rd Streets. A large metal fence surrounded the perimeter of the ballfield. It was an effort to eliminate non-paying spectators. These spectators were considered a nuisance by club owners because they were desperately dependent on ticket sales for the survival of their teams. It was fully lighted, making it one of the first stadiums in Texas to host night games. The Hurricane of 1943 wreaked irreparable damage upon Moody Stadium, and it was soon demolished.

White Cap Park (1950-1955)

Notable Players

Several famous baseball players have ties to Galveston, Texas.

Wally Moses - Moses made an amazing 712 plate appearances in 1937 with 25 homers, the only year he reached double digits in his long career. He batted .316. He was the first player in Major League Baseball history to accomplish a “walk-off steal of home” more than once, which he did twice.

Moses was a coach for the Philadelphia A’s from 1952 to 1954, the Philadelphia Phillies from 1955 to 1958, the Cincinnati Reds in 1959 and 1960, and the New York Yankees in 1961 and 1962. He stayed with the Yankees as a batting instructor in the organization in 1963 and a scout from 1964 to 1966. He returned to coaching for the Detroit Tigers from 1967 to 1970.

Fun Fact: The stadium was also one of the first to offer tiered ticket prices for box, reserved, grandstand, and bleacher seats, while the northwest corner of the stadium provided full-time

Fun Fact: Moses started his professional career with Galveston in the Texas League in 1934.

Harry David Brecheen - Brecheen was born in October 1914 in Oklahoma. He loved baseball, and by age 20, he’d been discovered.

Fun Fact: He pitched in the A-level Galveston, Texas in 1935, while he mastered his famous “screwball” pitch.

He left to play in the majors and played most of his professional career for the St. Louis Cardinals. He was nicknamed “the Cat”, because of his quick, feline-like reflexes on the mound and excellent fielding.

Monty Franklin Pierce “Gander” Stratton - Born on May 21, 1912, in Wagner, Texas, Stratton was the sixth of nine children. He had shown skills in ballgames to impress his high school classmates. They pleaded with him to take the mound in a game against a rival school. Stratton complied and pitched a shutout. News of his abilities spread. Soon he was able to earn extra money pitching for local semipro teams.

Harry David Brecheen

Monty Franklin Pierce “Gander” Stratton

Wally Moses

Fun Fact: In 1934 his success in these contests resulted in a professional contract with the Texas League Galveston Buccaneers.

In 1936, he was granted a spot in the White Sox rotation. After winning ten games in the first half of the 1937 season, Stratton was named to the American League All-Star squad. Then tragedy struck when he accidentally shot himself in the right leg. The lower leg had to be amputated. This happened in November 1938, and by Christmas, Stratton was fitted with a wooden leg and went home.

Fun Fact: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) paid Stratton $100,000 for his life story, which was made into a prestige picture.

Beau Bell - Roy Chester Bell was born in Bellville, Texas in 1907. Czech families in Texas were commonly referred to as Bohemians, so Bell’s friends began to call him “Bo.” Later, he changed the spelling to “Beau.” Beau went to Texas A&M University, graduating in 1931.

Fun Fact: He played for the Galveston Buccaneers in the Texas League in 1934.

He has several achievements.

AL All-Star (1937) AL Hits

(1937) AL

100

(1936 & 1937) 100 Runs Scored Seasons: (1936) 200 Hits Seasons: (1936 & 1937)

Brandon Allen Backe - Brandon Backe was born in Galveston, Texas, in 1978. He was selected by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 36th round of the 1996 MLB Draft, but chose to stay close to home and played his collegiate baseball at Galveston College. There, he earned All-America honors in 1998. Backe started the 2005 season in the Astros’ starting rotation, going 10–8 with a 4.76 ERA in his first full season as a starter. Backe performed well including a fivehit, seven-strikeout performance in Game 4 of the 2005 World Series. His career ended after suffering a devastating injury to his pitching shoulder in 2009.

Fun Fact: He played for Ball High School in Galveston where he was a two-time team MVP and earned all-district honors.

Fun Fact: He is a left-handed batter and right-handed thrower.

Carpenter’s first career walk-off home run came on May 7, 2016, in a 6–4 win over Pittsburgh. From 2013 through May 2016, he led all major league leadoff hitters in hits, runs, home runs, and RBI.

MLB named Carpenter the NL Player of the Week on June 6 after batting .560 with five doubles.

“ Carpenter is “the epitome of a professional grinder. This guy’s as tough an out as there is in the National League, especially when the stakes are raised.” - Dodgers catcher A. J. Ellis.

And there are countless others who are notable players in the game of baseball. These are just a few. For some reason, they spoke to me and I hope you have found them interesting.

Well Wavers, I hope you have enjoyed this look at Galveston through the lens of baseball. As I said, in the beginning, I was surprised Galveston and baseball were first connected on our beautiful island during the time our country was experiencing a Civil War. You never know what you’re gonna find when you take a look at history!

Until next month!

Thomas Waggoner

Matthew Martin Lee Carpenter - Matt Carpenter was born in Galveston, Texas on November 26, 1985. He played 14 seasons in Major League Baseball for the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, and San Diego Padres.

Leader

Doubles Leader (1937)

RBI Seasons:

Matthew Martin Lee Carpenter

Beau Bell

Brandon Allen Backe

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!

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

Savour

Voted Best Martini, Happy Hour, Asian, & Sushi

Voted Best Margarita, Mexican, Chips & Salsa, Ceviche, & Queso

Voted Best Gumbo, Cajun, Oysters, Shrimp, & Crawfish

by: Tom Valliere & Charlie Bresenhan

Habanos Cuban Cafe

Big BITES

At the turn of the last century, the Tampa, Florida area saw the rise of a thriving cigar industry fueled by Cuban immigration into Ybor City on the Tampa Bay. Now a popular Tampa neighborhood known for its restaurants and nightlife, remnants of its Cuban and Italian roots can be seen in the old factories and warehouses that remain. Cigar manufacturing may be gone, but the smells and tastes of old Havana remain. There are numerous restaurants, large and small, that keep the Cuban recipes and customs alive to this day. It was here that I learned to enjoy and appreciate the wonderful culture, people, and foods of Cuba.

Many years later, leaving my youth behind in Florida, I would seek out a Cuban sandwich or some familiar Cuban foods in Texas, almost always to be disappointed.

Well, I am no longer disappointed. I am pleased that Galveston now has an authentic Cuban restaurant equal to anything I experienced in Florida. That restaurant is the Habanos Cuban Cafe.

Situated in an old historic building lovingly restored and remodeled, it is truly a gem. Located in our Postoffice downtown district just steps from the 1894 Opera House and across from the old Customs House on 20th Street, the former Apache Mexican restaurant has been completely renovated and exudes a charm that instantly relaxes you and sets the tone for the delicious food that will soon be at your table.

For a city with a history steeped in Mexican culture and cuisine, Cuban food is both familiar and foreign to our Tex-Mex palates. It leans heavily towards Afro-Caribbean and is more similar to the foods I enjoyed in Panama. Black beans, rice, and plantains for starches and chicken, beef, pork, and seafood for proteins. Infused with the spices and flavors of the Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino people, it is a cuisine unlike any other.

However, as remarkable as the Cuban cuisine may be, the story of how this restaurant came to be in Galveston may be even more compelling. It all began with local entrepreneur and restaurateur Rudy Betancourt. Familiar to many Galveston residents as the owner of popular restaurants Press Box and Black Pearl, his is a remarkable story.

Rudy was born in Cuba to parents Manuel and Suzette Betancourt. Rudy’s father, Manuel, was a prosperous rancher in pre-Castro Cuba where young Rudy enjoyed a peaceful childhood until 1961 when his father was arrested as a political prisoner and jailed for opposing dictator Fidel Castro. The senior Betencourt was held in

unspeakable conditions for three years until his determined wife, Suzette, and the French embassy arranged for his release and settlement in the United States in 1964.

Leaving their home and belongings behind, the family settled in Galveston where the senior Betancourt found employment on local ranches and made a new home for their family. The work was difficult but the family prospered and soon their home was filled with the joys of a new baby girl and the laughter and comforts of a loving family and home-cooked meals from recipes brought from Cuba.

Suzette was the heart of the home and an exceptional cook. Every meal was prepared from scratch and served with love and care.

In Rudy’s own words: “Dinner at the Betancourt home was always lively - filled with conversation, laughter, and stories shared over her authentic Cuban dishes. Every holiday and birthday, we gathered around the table for a feast of black beans and rice, pork roast with mojito, fried plantains, and yucca. For dessert, Cuban coffee and her famous flan”.

The meals were more than food; they were a way to bring everyone together to celebrate life and family. Today, you can enjoy these authentic Cuban dishes from family recipes prepared as Suzette would have served them at this family-owned restaurant.

From the street, the restaurant is unremarkable but welcoming with a large covered entrance and benches that encourage lingering and

enjoying our balmy evenings and sea breezes.

Upon entering, you are struck by the careful restoration and attention to detail. It is at once formal, but also casual and inviting. Tropical murals decorate the rear walls while your attention is drawn to the large bar and impressive espresso machine at center stage. Far from being merely decorative, it is the source of many Cuban-inspired coffee and espresso drinks that generate rave reviews on social media.

Those positive reviews extend to the many appetizers, sandwiches, salads, and Cuban main dishes described in their relatively compact menu. Compact but complete and not intimidating is the best way to describe their offerings. Starting with the appetizers, each dish is described in a way that allows for easy selection, even for those unfamiliar with Cuban food.

I am drawn immediately to their empanadas. These mini-pies differ from our familiar Mexican empanadas which are generally filled with pumpkin or other vegetables. Instead, they bear more resemblance to those found in Argentina and South America being filled with a delicious ground beef-based picadillo. They are hearty and can easily suffice for a light meal.

An island country, Cuba abounds with fresh seafood and that is well represented with their ceviches and Bacalaitos- a deep-fried fish filet in a garlic and cilantro-based Cuban seasoning. But that is only the start.

Salads come in various forms with chicken or the option to add salmon or shrimp.

Of course, I am drawn to their sandwiches in my eternal quest for the perfect Cuban sandwich. With pork, ham, Swiss cheese, mustard, and pickles on crusty Cuban bread, this is a very good one! There are a couple of variants with different combinations of meat and cheese but I prefer the original. There is a grilled marinated chicken sandwich I may try on a future visit and a hamburger if you must - but why with so many traditional dishes?

Their traditional dishes include the ever-popular ropa vieja, literally “old clothes”, a delicious dish of shredded beef in a sofrito base with garlic, peppers, olives, and onions served with rice. It comes with a side salad and tostones for a hearty and filling meal.

There are many more dishes, mostly authentic, some familiar, and others that beg to be tried. A bargain-priced ribeye steak will satisfy us carnivores and may be my next meal. There is much more than I can describe. The entire menu is available online on Facebook if you wish a preview.

This is a full-service bar that expertly mixes those exotic Cuban drinks we love. Mostly rum-based, their mojitos, pina coladas, and daiquiris are all delicious. All common mixed drinks are available and, with special happy hour prices, are very affordable. A small but complete wine menu and selection of domestic and imported beers satisfy every thirst.

The essence of this restaurant is again best described in Rudy’s own words:

“It’s from my mother that I learned the art of cooking and I carry her legacy every day. At Habanos, we strive to serve every dish with the same love and dedication that Suzette put into every meal. I hope you enjoy every bite as much as we enjoyed the moments shared around her table”.

Street parking only, but 20th is a quiet street with a fair amount of unmetered curb parking. Handicapped accessibility is good with the caveat of street parking and curbs.

Hours of Operation: Daily: 11:00 AM to 9:45 PM H appy Hour: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM Monday through Thursday only.

Habanos Cuban Cafe 511 20th Street

G alveston, Texas 77550 (409) 539-5521

Breakfast Tacos

We’re bringing something extra delicious to your brunch table. Soft tortillas loaded with fluffy eggs, crispy bacon or delicious sausage with melty cheese and a little kick of pico de gallo to start your day the right way.

Cooper’s Landing 11150 Termini-San Luis Pass Road (409) 539-5534

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

July Featured Dishes

Brick Oven Oyster Rockefeller!

Bringing the sizzle of open flame to this timeless classic. Baked in the heart of a wood-fired oven, each oyster is crowned with goodies, then roasted until bubbling and golden.

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

Redfish Special at The Gumbo Diner

Fresh redfish seasoned to perfection with our secret Cajun blend, topped with a flavorful ponch sauce loaded with crawfish, and served alongside fresh southern green beans and garlic rice & mushrooms.

The Gumbo Diner 3602 Seawall Blvd. (409) 762-3232

Joey Burger

6oz hand-pressed Wagyu beef burger with smoked cheddar, grilled onions, lettuce, tomato, and mayo. Served with a side of truffle fries.

Saltwater Grill 2017 Postoffice Street (409) 762-3474

Crab Cake Eggs Benedict

Toasted English muffin, arugula, poached eggs, housemade crab cakes, sautéed in butter and covered with our homemade hollandaise sauce. Served with breakfast potatoes and bacon. Only available for Sunday Brunch from 10 am to 2 pm.

Marios Seawall Italian and Pizzeria 628 Seawall Blvd (409) 763-1693

Enjoy this home cooked staple served with mashed potatoes, cream or brown gravy, corn or green beans, Texas toast, and your drink of choice.

ShyKatz 1528 Avenue L (409) 770-0500

July Featured Dishes

Churro Bites

New! Golden, crispy, and dusted with just the right amount of cinnamon-sugar, our Churro Bites are bite-sized delights that pack big flavor. Each piece is perfectly fried for a light crunch on the outside and a soft, doughy center. Served warm with Salted Caramel drizzle.

Papa’s Pizza 4400 Seawall Blvd (409) 766-7272

Fajita Mondays at Taquilo’s Tex Mex

Kick off your week the right way with our 1 lb fajita platter for just $39.99 every Monday! Choose from Certified Angus Beef, Chicken, or a combo of the twoserved with rice and beans. Available for dine-in only.

Taquilo’s Tex-Mex Cantina 2101 Postoffice (409) 497-4279

Lemon Herb Seasoned Golden Tilefish Topped With Gulf Blue Crab Sauce On Rockefeller Spinach.

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

Chicken Fried Steak

Lemon Herb Golden Tilefish

WE cater!

CURTAIN GOING UP

By: Paul Hager

ISLAND ETC THEATRE SLATES SEASON 23; A PERSONAL ANNOUNCEMENT

ETC’s artistic director Kim Mytelka has done it again by providing us with a widely diverse and highly entertaining selection for the theatre’s upcoming Season 23:

MY FAIR LADY

Book and Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner Music by Frederick Loewe - July 18 - August 16, 2025Sunday matinees July 27 & August 3, 2025

This classic musical’s story, based on George Bernard Shaw’s 1913 play Pygmalion and on the 1938 film adaptation of the play, concerns Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons from Professor Henry Higgins, a phonetician, so that she may pass as a lady. Despite his cynical nature and difficulty understanding women, Higgins grows attached to her.

Its 1956 Broadway production was a notable critical and popular success, winning six Tony Awards, including Best Musical and It set a record for the longest run of any musical on Broadway up to that time. Many revivals have followed, and the 1964 film version won the Academy Award for Best Picture.

12 ANGRY MEN

By Reginald Rose - September 19 - October 4, 2025 - Sunday matinees September 21 & September 28, 2025

This version of the play by Reginald Rose, who adapted it from his 1954 teleplay of the same title written for the CBS Studio One anthology television series was staged first in San Francisco in 1955 followed by the Broadway debut 50 years after CBS aired the play, on October 28, 2004, by the Roundabout Theatre Company at the American Airlines Theatre, where it ran for 328 performances.

It is 1957, and twelve men have been led into a jury room of a New York City court of law. They are given final instructions about determining the

verdict in a murder case whose defendant, a young man accused of killing his father, faces the death penalty if found guilty.

EBENEZER SCROOGE’S BIG GALVESTON CHRISTMAS SHOW

By Gordon Greenberg and Steve RosenNovember 14 - December 6, 2025

Sunday matinee November 23, 2025, No performance on Thanksgiving

One of the holiday season’s favorite tales has been transformed into a gut-busting, fun, and family-friendly theatrical experience that incorporates the details of ETC’s own theatre into the script. Take a spin with Ebenezer, all three Ghosts, Tiny Tim, and more in this music-filled “Eighty-five zippy, intermission-free minutes of festive escapism” show.

SEX LIVES OF SUPERHEROES

By Stephen Gregg - January 16 - January 24, 2026 - Sunday matinees January 18, 2026

A one-act romantic comedy where a young man is struggling with the breakup from the “love of his life.” When his life becomes too stressful, he dives into his dream world where he lectures audiences at Carnegie Hall on the sex lives of superheroes.

PAJAMA GAME

Book by George Abbott and Richard Bissell

- Music and Lyrics by Richard Adler and Jerry Ross - March 13- April 11, 2026Sunday matinees March 22 & 29, 2026

The original Broadway production opened on May 13, 1954, at the St.

PAUL HAGER

PAUL HAGER

James Theatre, and ran for 1,063 performances, winning a Tony Award for Best Musical.

A labor furor over a 7½-cent pay raise at a pajama plant complicates the course of true love for Sid Sorokin, the new factory superintendent, and Babe Williams, the feisty firebrand heading the Union Grievance Committee.

FARCE OF NATURE

By Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooton - May 8 - May 23, 2026 - Sunday matinees May 10 & May 17, 2026

Meet the Wilburn family, who own a struggling fishing lodge called the Reel ‘Em Inn in Mayhew, Arkansas. The play centers around a collection of quirky characters who hide, lie, disguise themselves, cross-dress, and engage in door-slamming antics while desperately trying to identify the source of a terrible smell.

Also , COM THEATRE has ‘revealed’ its 2025-2026 Season on their Facebook page - dates and times “coming soon”

AND FINALLY…

Well, folks... just when I thought it was time to fade out my stage acting career and fade into being a portrayal artist doing Santa Claus full-time, Island ETC announced MY FAIR LADY as their summer musical, and I’ve been cast as Colonel Pickering! I am so excited to be working again with all the fabulously talented peeps at ETC and I hope to see many friends and family butts in the seats during the run. [July 18 through August 16]. Dates/Times/Ticket information is on ETC’s website: https://www.islandetc.org

Listings ON THE BOARDS [Currently playing]

ISLAND ETC [East-End Theatre Company]

MY FAIR LADY

Book and Lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe

July 18 - August 16, 2025 - 8:00 PM

Sunday Mantinees - July 27 and August 3, 2025 - 2:30 PM htps://www.islandetc.org/

July 10 - 27, 2025 - 7:00 and 2:30 PM

https://www.com.edu/community-theatre/

COM THEATRE [College of the Mainland Theatre]

DISATER! THE MUSICAL

By Seth Rudetsky and Jack Plotnick

TWELTH NIGHT

CLEAR CREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

By William Shakesphere

July 25 - 27, 2025 - 7:30 and 2:00 PM

https://clearcreekcommunitytheatre.com/

PURPLE BOX THEATRE

GODSPELL

Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz Book by John-Michael Tebelak

July 25 - August 3, 2025 - Various times http://www.thepurpleboxtheater.com/

BAYTOWN LITTLE THEATRE [BLT]

MATILDA - THE MUSICAL

Original Songs by Tim Minchin Book by Dennis Kelly

July 25 - August 3, 2025 - 8:00 and 2:30 PM

https://baytownlittletheater.org/

IN THE WINGS [Opening Soon]

CLEAR CREEK COMMUNITY THEATRE

SILENT SKY

By Lauren Gunderson

August 22 - 31, 2025 - Various times https://clearcreekcommunitytheatre.com/

BAYTOWN LITTLE THEATRE [BLT]

BRIGHT IDEAS

By Larry Coble

August 15 - 24, 2025 - Various times https://baytownlittletheater.org/

PAUL HAGER

PAUL HAGER

FOSTER

FOSTER

OUR MISSION

Dedicated to promoting animal welfare and the protection and prevention of unwanted or homeless animals of Galveston Island.

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:

SHELTER SERVICES:

Safe housing and care for resident pets including animal health and behavior assessments

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.

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.

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS:

ADOPT FOSTER SPONSOR VOLUNTEER

EDUCATE DONATE

CONNECT WITH US

ADDITIONAL PROGRAMS:THE

• Spay/neuter assistance

Spay / neuter assistance

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!”

The Galveston Island Humane Society INC., formed in 1981 as a 501C3, non-profit organization. Originally created by concerned citizens to rescue animals from “the pound” and much has changed over the last few decades. Today we have a humane shelter with a no-kill live release rate. Daily we provide care for lost or homeles s pets, reuniting pets with their families and promoting the adoption of pets needing homes.

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.

• Lost pet assistance and recovery

Lost pet assistance and recovery

Humane education for all ages

• Humane education for all ages

Pet food pantry for individuals in need

• Pet food pantry for individuals in need

Emergency Medical Assistance

• Emergency Medical Assistance

WHAT DO ADOPTIONS INCLUDE AT GIHS?

WHAT DO ADOPTIONS INCLUDE AT GIHS?

All adopted pets are spayed / neutered as required by Texas law.

• All adopted pets are spayed/neutered as required by Texas law.

Vaccinations including rabies, as well as Flea and Heartworm prevention are all current when pet is adopted

Microchip

• Vaccinations including rabies, as well as Flea and - Heartworm prevention, are all current when the pet is adopted.

• Microchip.

GIHS is de dicated 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!"

GALVESTON ISLAND COMMUNITY CATS

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.

GICC was established in 2015 and is a progressive Trap/Neuter/Return (TNR) program to fi x, vaccinate and release feral cats on the island. To date we have altered over 4000 felines with this program.

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, this could easily lead to needless euthanasia. Our programs work diligently to reduce the number of pets in our community. We are committed to assuring that ad optable pets are kept available until they are placed in a family or transferred to a partner organization.

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.

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 Is land can live out his or her life in a loving home.

• Like and share from our social networks.

• Become a member of GIHS.

Microchip your pets

Spay or neuter your pets and encourage others to do the same

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

• ADOPT your next best friend.

• VOLUNTEER at the shelter.

• FOSTER if you cannot adopt.

• DONATE to support our mission.

Like and share from our social

Become a member of GIHS

ADOPT your next best fr iend VOLUNTEER at the shelter

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.

FOSTER if you cannot adopt

DONATE to support our mission

Bonnie Tyler is a beautiful, kind, and loving soul. She was rescued from an abandoned school bus at the state park back in March, and she’s now looking for a hero to provide her with a loving home. Bonnie is a total eclipse of the heart, inspiring hope for a brighter future. She is available for foster care or adoption through the Galveston Humane Society.

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 Bonnie Tyler 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 Bonnie Tyler, please apply at www.galvestonhumane.org/adopt

Music Profile

Texas Oray

It’s not common for the leader of a local rock band, busy writing songs, booking and marketing gigs, to find the time, or the incentive, to promote other musicians, but that is exactly what League City songwriter and Oray Band frontman, Oray Phillips, is doing.

“When I’m not playing a show, I’m always out supporting artists and sharing t heir music. I love the artists here. If there is anything I want to emphasize it’s how much respect I have for the Galveston music scene family,” Phillips said.

Born in Pecos, Texas in 1983, Phillips started playing guitar at 17. His family m oved from Texas to Louisiana where he graduated from Tioga High School (about 100 miles north of Lafayette, LA) and was influenced by the music of The Eagles, Garth Brooks, 3 Doors Down, Van Halen, and Creed. Moving to the Fort Worth area in 2005, Phillips attended MediaTech Institute for Audio Engineering and wrote his first original song, “Pain and Misery” as part of a 5 song EP, from which 3 songs are currently available on Spotify.

Although off to a promising start in music, Phillips said his addictions to alcohol and drugs took over his life and it wasn’t until he decided to get clean and sober in 2020 that he was able to focus on music again.

“In 2020 I had enough and I decided to get clean and sober. I started working i n a narcotics anonymous program and stayed active in my recovery. In 2024 I decided I wanted to play music again. I’m 5 years sober now. Even for the members of the band, I have a rule: while we’re working, “no drinks, drugs or drama,” Phillips said

Moving from Fort Worth to t he Galveston area in 2023, Phillips first attended an open mic at Galveston Bay Brewing in Clear Lake Shores Texas, hosted by guitarist and singer-songwriter Robert Greaney where he immediately began developing relationships with other local musicians. Participating in various jams and open-mics led Phillips to finding his current band members, Lynn Raggio on bass and guitar and Shane Williams on drums. By June of 2024, Oray Band was playing their first full show at Galveston’s 3 Doors Down bar and have since performed in Austin, San Antonio, and Los Angeles (at the world-famous Whisky-A-Go-Go) as well as at many live music venues around the region.

As for his unique name (Oray), Phillips said he was inspired by an English teacher at his high school in Louisiana who had been instrumental in pushing him to play guitar. The teacher’s name was Daniel Horaist (pronounced ‘o-ray’) and upon needing a new name for his band (previously called Roadkill) Phillips asked Horaist if he could use his name but with a different spelling. Horaist was flattered and agreed, Phillips said, and thus the name of not only his band but the name he commonly goes by was created.

Q & A with Oray Phillips

Zach Tate: How do you describe Oray Band’s music?

Oray Phillips: Very personal and intimate. The lyrics describe my real-life situations, secrets, thoughts, and feelings. The melodies of the music reinforce the intensity of those feelings. Minor chords are in most arrangements.

ZT: Why do you play, write, and perform music?

OP : Music is my drug. It is my psychological escape from reality. When I perform is the only time I feel accepted by myself and others at the same time. I also love the challenge of entertaining people. When people relate to my music, I feel a sense of accomplishment.

Story and Photos by Zach Tate Live photos by Denise Plantier

Whisky A Go Go. R-L Lynn Raggio on bass, Allan Lopez on drums, Oray Phillips on guitar.

The music scene is HUGE. There is so much talent in our area and so many venues that support live music. This is ‘the’ place to be if you want to do music full-time. It is a musical family.

ZT: Do you have any formal music training?

OP : I am self-taught on instruments and vocals. Production-wise, I am a MediaTech Institute graduate.

ZT: What is your earliest memory of being inspired by music?

OP : In 1992. I was 9 or 10 years old when my parents bought the “This Is Garth Brooks Live” VHS tape. I already loved his music at that time, but after watching his stage presence, I knew I wanted to be an entertainer.

ZT: What artists did you love growing up?

OP : Garth Brooks, George Strait, Eagles, and Van Halen.

ZT: Where was the first place you ever performed in front of people?

OP : Tioga High School Talent Show in 2002 in front of about 1200 people.

ZT: Who influences you these days and why?

OP : Wolfgang Van Halen. Simply put, he is original. Mammoth WVH stays busy through all adversity and is NOT being molded by what society ‘expects’ him to be. His live performances sound as good as his studio recordings. What you hear is what you get: professionalism.

ZT: What defines ‘good music’ in your opinion?

OP : Music that speaks to you (in your own language). Music that you can relate to. Music that shares your story.

ZT: What is your songwriting process?

OP : I actually create a composition in my head first. Then I find a topic that matches the tone. After that, pieces of my experiences in life with that topic fall into place. Some of those experiences I am not proud of, so I use double entendres in many of my songs.

ZT: Where is the best place for people to find out where you’re playing next?

OP : On our official website. www.orayband.com. Our show dates are listed as well as links to our social media platforms.

ZT: How do you define success as would relate to being a musician?

OP : TEAMWORK. Working with a friend, family member, bandmate, or venue. Creating a goal, having a plan to accomplish it, following that plan and making adjustments as needed, executing and reaching that goal. Whether it is one event, an album or a tour, success is putting in the work and achieving that specific goal.

ZT: What is your opinion of the Galveston and Houston music scenes?

OP : The music scene is HUGE. There is so much talent in our area and so many venues that support live music. This is ‘the’ place to be if you want to do music full-time. It is a musical family. Local artists support each other and point you in the right direction to others who can help. Cisco Nonother is the musician who pointed me in the direction of Lynn Raggio who, as most know, became my bandmate, business partner, and best friend. The music scene in Galveston and Houston is unselfish and thriving. It is addictive.

ZT: What is your music goal for 2025?

OP : Finish tracking the ORAY BAND album and start planning our second national tour to promote the album. The ultimate goal is to be 100% original and not a cover band.

www.orayband.com

Instagram@oray.band

Youtube@orayband

R-L Oray Phillips on guitar, Shane Williams on drums, Lynn Raggio on bass

FISHING on the Island

The With Chris Gonzales

Experienced Fishing Advice To Make Fishing Great Again

Serious Tackle Box

Red Snapper Top to Bottom

Red snapper – get’em while you can. Another year will be in the books before you know it! Generally speaking, the most important part of catching red snapper is simply being where they are. If you don’t have that information, there is an assortment of maps and books that are widely available at most coastal tackle shops and sporting goods stores to guide you. The many party boats, charter boats, and their knowledgeable captains along our Texas coast will get you there, too. Remember that no matter whose boat you’re on, simple red snapper rigging gets the job done.

A number of methods along this line to be covered here will do just thatget the job done from the top to the bottom of the water column. The freelined, or unweighted rigging shown at the top of the illustration is as basic as it gets. The freelined bait sinks slowly on its own weight plus that of the hook, leader, and swivel. For the most part, this works best in a light current situation. The through the mouth and out of the gill of the baitfish allows the hook to be placed toward the tail - this gets the short strikers most of the time. Size an egg weight as needed, and place it on the line above the swivel to get your baitfish to the depth that the snapper is suspending.

The baitfish on the freelined or lightly weighted rig can also be nose-hooked. This lets the hook work to its best predator-attracting potential. Most of the time, hungry snapper will inhale the whole baitfish - they will also bite off just the rear half(short strikers). If you get a hit and a miss, wait a few seconds, your snapper or another one is likely to soon eat the head half. Reeling in too quickly could cause you to miss a return customer. This whole exciting scenario can be clearly seen when red snappers are feeding shallow.

The illustration’s sow rig has the same factors controlling the size of its egg weight as the freelined rig. The water depth also plays a part; 2 to 8 ounces is usually sufficient. While a nose-hooked dead bait works well, live is normally light years ahead. Hooking a live baitfish in the vent area makes it struggle upward against the weight of the hook and leader. The vibrations generated are like a dinner bell to the big red snappers in the area, plus the

Red Snapper - Top to Bottom

Current strength will control the size of the egg weight needed for getting to that depth; a 1/4 to 2 oz. egg weight will be sufficient 99% of the time. This rigging also works for kingfish when a wire leader is used in place of the mono; use camo brown wire such as #7, 86# Malin. A wire leader also aids a bit with the hookset- a big snapper can’t clamp down on the wire, so it slides through its closed jaws as the line comes tight.

grouper, amberjack, and ling, to name a few - your bait’s headed into harm’s way for sure.

Vent area hooked baitfish also have an added hookup advantage. With your hook toward the bait fish’s tail and it likely being eaten head first, the predator fish, even if it feels the hook as being something unnatural, the swallowing process may be too far along for it to spit your bait. At that point, a hookup is almost assured.

With the bottom rig, you can also slowly play out line, letting your live baitfish swim up a bit. Tighten down for the hookset when you feel any increased speed or weight on the tightening line. Don’t forget that when using a circle hook to let the line come tight, then reel down hard. Hooksets are sure and very few come unbuttoned during the fight to the surface when using a circle hook.

offshore. Bring a bait rod, small hooks, bait, or your favorite sabiki rig. Those caught on site are what the area’s predators had been scoping out when you got there. Give them what they want.

Use these basic rigging methods as outlined and they will out-fish most others many times over. These simple rigging methods will enable you to catch the red snapper you’re after plus the numerous other species already mentioned. Give them a shot, you won’t be disappointed.

Chris Gonzales Owner - Serious

Back to the baitfish. . .use the freshest available Spanish sardines, cigar minnows, sand trout, tinker mackerel, croakers, etc. As far as live goes, buy or catch them before you go, or catch them when you get

Pro Fishing Gear & Tackle

Ingredients

Sweet corn-1 large ear grilled then cut off cob

Avocado-1 peeled and cubed

Roma tomato-1 cubed

Cilantro-1/4 cup chopped fresh Pumpkin seeds- 1/8 cup

Oaxaca cheese- 1/4 cup grated

Serrano pepper-1 tsp chopped (more for hotter salad)

Lime juice-1 tsp

TSS Tex Mex Seasoning-1 tsp

Sea salt-ground to taste

Mixed peppercorns-ground to taste

Grilled Corn and Avocado Salad

Texas sweet corn is stocked up at almost every grocery store right now so it’s the perfect time to feature a recipe using fresh sweet corn.

I picked up yellow and bi-color from my local HEB the past couple weeks to start making some of my favorite summer recipes. This month is a grilled sweet corn salad that is a perfect pairing for any grilled protein including wild game. The recipe can be double or tripled

for serving more dinner guests or leftover for lunch the next day. Its really delicious and easy to make.

Directions

Combine all ingredients stirring well, cover and set in fridge for two hours before serving.

1. d) All of the above – The water’s color changes due to sediment, runoff, and blooms.

2. b) 17 ft – Galveston’s seawall stands 17 feet tall and stretches over 10 miles.

3. b) José de Evía – He named Galveston Bay in honor of Bernardo de Gálvez in 1785.

4. a) Shrimp – Young shrimp grow in the protective marshes of Galveston Bay.

5. c) 6,000–12,000 – The 1900 hurricane remains the deadliest in U.S. history.

6. b) Balinese Room – The glamorous pier club was destroyed by Hurricane Ike in 2008.

8. b) Akokisa (Atakapan) – Early inhabitants who wintered here for over 1,300 years.

9. d) All of the above – Galveston had Texas’ first gaslights, telephone, and electric lights.

10. c) 15,000 – The Gulf is home to over 15,000 documented species.

11. d) The Beach Hotel – It was Galveston’s elite resort until it burned down in 1898.

12. a) Jean Lafitte – The infamous pirate ruled his “kingdom” of Campeche on Galveston Island.

13. a) The Bryan Museum – Housed in the former Galveston Orphans Home/U.S. Customs House.

15. c) 3rd – Galveston’s Mardi Gras is the third-largest in the country, behind New Orleans and Mobile.

16. a) Malhado – Spanish explorers gave Galveston this name, meaning "Isle of Misfortune."

17. b) Coral reef protection – The sanctuary safeguards rare deep-water coral reef systems.

18. d) Opera house – The Grand 1894 Opera House is Texas’ oldest still in operation.

7. b) Elissa – The 1877 tall ship is fully restored and docked at the Texas Seaport Museum.

14. c) Texas Seaport Museum – Located at Pier 21, it’s the home port of the ELISSA.

19. d) 2021 – Juneteenth became a U.S. holiday in 2021, based on events in Galveston in 1865.

20. d) Romanesque – The Moody Mansion showcases Richardsonian Romanesque design from 1895.

PET PEEVES Of The Month

The Annoyance of Social Media Questions Ending with “And GO!”

There was a time when asking a question on social media was like inviting friends over for a laid-back chat. Now, thanks to some very enthusiastic posters, every question comes with its own starting pistol: “And GO!” As if the very moment you finish reading the query, you’re expected to morph into an Olympic sprinter, racing to provide the world’s most urgent answer. Bravo, dear poster, for demanding that your humble inquiry be the digital equivalent of a drag race.

That cheeky “And GO!” at the end of your question seems designed not to spark conversation but to shout “Attention, everyone—this is a prize worth winning!”

How delightfully absurd! By slapping on a speedy “And GO!” you’ve declared your query the most critical issue of our times—a race where every unprepared thumb must immediately sprint to respond. It’s as if you believe that a rapid-fire answer is the only sign of intellectual prowess. So here’s a sarcastic salute: thanks to your ultra-competitive rallying cry for attention to your matter, we’re all enrolled in a typing contest we didn’t even know we signed up for.

Do we like that some of these folks assume that everyone o n thier feed is just itching to answer your most glorious question faster than the speed of thought? Do we like that instead of encouraging a meaningful discussion, you’ve transformed our feed into a desperate game show where urgency trumps depth on every post?

NO! WE DON’T LIKE THAT!

In a world where genuine conversation is already on the e ndangered list, your self-appointed call for impatience takes the cake—or the stopwatch per se. So, dear poster, if racing to answer your question is your idea of fun, then by all means, let the record-breaking typing sprints commence. Just know that the rest of us gag a little bit when we see “And GO! as we scroll on by.

Happy racing, and may your “fastest answer wins” trophy be as shiny as your ambition! Our response to your “And GO!” is “As If”.

Snails, Snails, Snails

“Most of the time, snails are not noticed eating your plants, but the damage to your vegetation is significant”

If you spend any time at all outside, you will see a snail or slug. In this mild and wet climate, these gastropods thrive. These pests are also related to the squids, clams, and mussels- which would explain why some cultures eat snails.

I have to say, I love escargot when it is brought to me in a Mediterranean restaurant, but the idea of gathering up these guys off the flowerbeds and eating them is NOT appealing. Anyway, back to gardening.

Most of the time you will not notice snails or slugs eating your plants because they do it at night. However, you will notice the damage. Vegetation will show large holes in mature plants and seedlings may just be gone.

There are several ways to get rid of snails without using harsh chemicals. One way is to take a shallow can, such as a tuna can, and fill it with beer. The gastropods are attracted to the sweet sugary brew and will fall in and drown. Simply empty the can when full and repeat.

If the above method seems too gruesome and a perfectly good waste of beer, you could use eggshells or diatomaceous earth. Egg shells are easy to come by as you just save the shells and crush them up.

Diatomaceous earth is fossilized crustaceans and can be bought at most garden centers. Both products work against snails and slugs because of the sharp edges. The snail’s soft underbodies are sliced up when they attempt to cross the shells. So, sprinkle these products liberally around your plants and the nasty slugs cannot get to them.

Snails and slugs are very much at home here and reproduce quickly. This means that you can’t just treat a bed once and count it done. Applying the eggshells and diatomaceous earth, or setting the traps, will need to be a regular task in the garden.

Ross For more great information, go to: www.hollykross. com

R eflections

by: John & Kathy Valastro

Turtles Around Galveston A Celebration of Art, Awareness, and Advocacy

My island friends, If you’ve ever found yourself wandering the vibrant streets of Galveston, Texas, you may have encountered something unexpected—dozens of life-sized, brightly painted sea turtles scattered across the island. These aren’t real turtles, of course, but part of a whimsical and inspiring public art initiative called Turtles About Town.

Launched in 2018, Turtles About Town is a collaborative project between the Turtle Island Restoration Network (TIRN) and Clay Cup Studios, a local Galveston art studio. Together, these two organizations envisioned a way to combine art, conservation, and community spirit—and they succeeded. Today, 61 uniquely decorated Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle statues are stationed throughout the island, serving as both artistic landmarks and conservation symbols.

A Mission with Meaning

At its heart, Turtles About Town is more than just an art display. It’s a powerful educational tool designed to raise awareness about the endangered Kemp’s Ridley sea turtle, the rarest sea turtle species in the world. Native to the Gulf of Mexico and the upper Texas coast, these turtles face numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution, and entanglement in fishing gear.

A Self-Guided Adventure for All Ages

Turtles About Town is ideal for families, couples, or solo explorers looking for a fun and meaningful way to experience Galveston. The project offers a free, self-guided tour, encouraging visitors to find all the statues and enjoy the hidden gems of the island along the way.

By transforming Galveston into an open-air gallery, TIRN hopes to bring these issues to the forefront and inspire both locals and visitors to take part in protecting marine wildlife. Each statue acts as a gentle but persistent reminder that these creatures need our help—and that every action counts.

Turtle Personalities Come to Life

From the bustling streets of Downtown, where you might meet “Flora”, “MiShell”, or “Sundae”, to the West End, where “Bubbles” and “Shelly Sandersun” greet beachgoers, the turtles are thoughtfully placed to encourage exploration. Not only does the hunt for statues offer a chance to see different parts of Galveston, but it also serves as a form of eco-tourism, reinforcing the connection between the community and the coastal ecosystem.

Community, Conservation, and Color

Turtles About Town is a shining example of how public art can create meaningful dialogue. It bridges the gap between environmental advocacy and artistic expression, between local pride and global responsibility. In an era where conservation can sometimes feel overwhelming, these cheerful statues offer hope—and a tangible way for people to connect with nature through creativity.

Each of the 61 turtles has its own name, story, and personality, thanks to the creativity of local artists who were commissioned to design them. The results are as diverse as Galveston itself. Some turtles are playful and colorful, others are regal and symbolic. Whether it’s “Alice” from Midtown, the shimmering “Queen of the Sea”, or “The Protector” watching over Downtown, every statue invites curiosity and encourages engagement.

These turtles also provide a way for businesses and organizations to support both the arts and conservation. Local sponsors funded the creation of each turtle, showing the depth of community investment in the project’s mission. In return, the statues have helped draw attention to their locations, boosting local tourism and small business visibility.

Whether you’re a longtime “Islander” or a first-time visitor, taking the time to explore the Turtles About Town is more than just a photo opportunity. It’s a journey into the soul of the island—a colorful, heartfelt celebration of community, conservation, and the gentle reminder that we are all stewards of the sea.

So next time you’re in Galveston, grab a map, hit the streets, and see how many turtle friends you can find. Each one has a story to tell—and all of them are worth hearing. Looking forward to crossing paths with my island friends on our next turtle hunt.

See you around the island!

John and Kathy Valastro

Beach Bum

Young Rebels: Rock Stars Before They Rocked the World

Hi there, Wavers! Your Bum always enjoys the summertime. I love to have family and friends over for a cookout with plenty of meats and cold beverages. There is just nothing like it. I also like to play some of my favorite tunes and have everyone sing along to them. Most of you know that your Bum loves rock music, both old and new. I had a random thought 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:

We all love the iconic “look” rock stars can pull off. It’s so cool. It’s legendary. My thoughts were, what did these rock stars look like earlier in their lives when they were just getting started? Way before the “look” they perfected when they got famous. Here are some of my favorites...

Young Kurt Cobain

15 Year Old Joey Ramone, 1966

Young Gene Simmons without his makeup

Alice Cooper in 1960 Amy Winehouse in 2004

David Bowie in 1965 Debbie Harry in the late’60s

Elvis Presley in 1963 Janis Joplin in 1961

Jim Morrison in his highschool yearbook

13 Year Old Jimmy Page in 1957 Madonna as seen in her highschool yearbook

Paul McCartney in his early teens Prince in his 8th grade yearbook photo

Slash in 1983

Can you identify this person? Anyone to answer this correctly, I want to hear from you.

The answer is on this page.

Teenage Eminem in the late ‘80s Mick Jagger before The Rolling Stones formed

Young Adele singing in her bedroom

First publicity photo of Elton John - 1968

13 year old Justin Bieber in 2007

Ozzy Osbourne in 1970 A young Steven Tyler of Aerosmith

A young Freddie Mercury of Queen

A young Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top

The Bum Stumper

Cookin’Column

Bunny is hip-hoppin’ off on a vacation, but she’s leaving you a sweet “peach” of a summer cake to try!

PEACH COBBLER POUND CAKE

Ingredients

Streusel (Biscuit crumble)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/3 cup brown sugar

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg powder

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Peaches

• 2 large peaches

• 1/4 tsp nutmeg powder

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder

• Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup water

Cake Batter

• 3 cups cake flour (see notes about using all-purpose flour)

• 2 1/4 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for greasing the pan

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 6 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 3/4 cup buttermilk

• Cream Cheese Glaze

• 1/4 cup cream cheese softened

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

• 2-3 tbsp milk

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Biscuit crumble

1. P re-heat the oven to 350ºF.

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, granulated and brown sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg powder. I like to use freshly grated nutmeg.

4. Add the softened butter to the brown sugar mixture. Use a fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients and mix them

together. You can also use your hands if you want.

5. Get the butter completely incorporated with the dry ingredients. You should be able to pinch the dough, and it will hold together.

6. Transfer the streusel dough to the prepared pan. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, stirring a couple times in between to help the dough crumble.

7. Remove from the oven when the crumbs are golden brown.

8. As soon as you remove it from the oven, use a spatula to break the crumbs apart.

9. Set it aside to cool down.

Peaches

1. F irst, peel the peaches. You can use a peeler, or you can blanch them and remove the skins.

2. To do that, fill up a big pot with water, bring to a boil.

3. Wash the peaches and cut an X with a paring knife on the top part of the peaches.

4. Place the peaches in the boiling water for 1 to 2 minutes, until the skin easily comes off. I find this works best for ripe peaches. If the peach is not ripe, the skin won’t come off easily, so in that case it’s best to peel with a vegetable peeler.

5. Also, remember that peeling the peaches is an optional step since it’s a matter of preference. I don’t like to eat the skin of cooked peaches in cakes or other desserts, so peeling is the best way to go.

6. Once the peaches are peeled, slice one peach into thin slices. These sliced peaches will be for the top of the cake. Place them in a bowl, add 1/8 tsp of nutmeg powder and 1/4 tsp of cinnamon powder to the sliced peaches.

7. The other peach should be chopped into small pieces. The chopped peaches will be added to the cake batter. Place the chopped peaches in a bowl; you should have about 1 cup. Add the remaining 1/8 tsp of nutmeg powder and 1/4 tsp of cinnamon powder to the chopped peaches.

8. Prepare the pan

9. Spread butter all over a 12-cup bundt pan, making sure it’s an even layer.

10. Sprinkle flour all over the pan and tap the pan around so the flour will spread evenly. Shake off any excess.

11. Lay the sliced peaches on the greased and floured bundt pan. One slice next to the other.

12. Set it aside while you make the caramel.

Caramel Sauce

1. Add the sugar and water to a small saucepan with a heavy bottom, mix briefly to combine. Place the pan over mediumhigh heat. Let the mixture come to a boil. Lower the heat to medium or medium-low.

2. Let the syrup cook until it’s amber color. Swirl the pan very gently, once or twice only. The caramel will continue to cook, and you will see spots of color showing up in the syrup.

3. Cook until the caramel is a light golden-brown color, not too dark. It will continue to cook, and it will cook fast, even after you remove it from the heat, so you want it to be a couple of shades lighter than a deep brown caramel sauce.

4. Immediately pour the caramel evenly over the peaches. The sauce will quickly become thick, so you have to pour it as soon as you remove it from the heat.

5. Set it aside while you make the cake batter.

Cake Batter

1. Pre-heat the oven to 350ºF.

2. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Set it aside.

3. To make the cake batter, start by beating the butter with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes.

4. Add the granulated sugar and beat to combine for two minutes.

5. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating at a medium speed until the egg is incorporated before adding the next one.

6. Add the vanilla and mix.

7. Add half of the dry ingredients to the bowl. Mix on low to combine.

8. Pour the buttermilk into the bowl, mix until incorporated.

9. Add the remaining flour mixture and fold until the batter comes together and becomes smooth.

10. Don’t overmix the batter to prevent the cake from coming out dry and tough. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Be sure to scrape the bowl every so often while you make the batter.

11. Pour about 2/3 of the batter over the caramel and peaches on the bottom of the bundt cake pan.

12. Smooth the batter with a spatula.

13. Pour the diced peaches on top. Spread about 1 cup of the biscuit crumble on top of the peaches.

14. Press down gently on the peaches and crumble.

15. Pour the remaining batter on top and smooth it out with a spatula. Don’t worry, the peaches and crumbling will sink a bit into the cake. Spread another 1 cup of biscuit crumble over the cake.

16. I like to tap the cake pan a few times before putting it in the oven to release any air bubbles.

17. Bake in the oven for about 1 hour. It can take a bit longer or a bit less, depending on your oven and how powerful it is. If you are using a convection oven, reduce the temperature by 10 to 20 degrees below the recommended temperature.

18. Remove the cake from the oven when it’s fully baked in the center. Check by inserting a toothpick in the cake in several spots, and it should come out clean.

19. If it’s coming out gooey or with too many crumbled stuck, continue baking in 5-to-10-minute intervals and checking.

20. You can top the cake with a piece of foil to prevent it from browning too much.

21. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool down for about 30 minutes in the pan, until the pan has cooled down enough that you can handle it.

22. Place a plate or board on top of the cake pan. Flip it over. Remove the cake pan gently.

Cream Cheese Vanilla Glaze

1. The glaze is optional. I tried with it and without it, and decided it was way too good with it.

2. Beat the room temperature cream cheese and butter with a mixer for 1 minute. Add the powdered sugar and milk, beat until incorporated, and a smooth glaze forms. Add the vanilla.

3. If the glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar, and if the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk by the teaspoon until you obtain the desired consistency.

4. Keep the glaze covered or in a piping bag with the end snipped so you can easily drizzle over the cake.

5. You can drizzle the glaze all over the cake or simply drizzle it over the individual slices.

6. Top with the rest of the crumbs and serve.

Notes

Peaches : You will need 2 peaches for this recipe. You can also use canned peaches for this recipe; you will need about 1 cup of sliced canned peaches and one cup of diced canned peaches.

Buttermilk : If you don’t have buttermilk, fret not, simply add a teaspoon of vinegar to regular milk, let it sit for 2 minutes, and use it in the recipe.

Buttermilk alternative: Another buttermilk alternative is to make the cake with a combination of sour cream and milk. Use 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1/4 cup of milk in the recipe instead of the buttermilk.

Cake flour: If you don’t have cake flour, that’s also ok, use regular all-purpose flour. If you want to replicate the results of the cake flour, which tends to produce a very light and soft cake, remove 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour total and add 1/4 cup of cornstarch instead. So the measurements for the flour would be in that case: 2.75 cups of all-purpose flour + 0.25 cups of cornstarch.

Glaze : The vanilla glaze is entirely optional, but highly recommended.

Biscuit Crumble: You can use salted butter for the crumble; it will give the crust a little more pronounced buttery flavor.

Greasing the pan: I don’t recommend using an oil spray to grease the pan. I recommend spreading butter all over the pan and cover in a coating of flour. This will make it much less likely for the caramel to stick.

Crumble

Caramel Sauce