Issuu

SPOTLIGHT

Kynidee Pope Kynidee Pope

Congratulations Ms. Juneteenth 2026!

Happy 4 Year Anniversary! Koop's BBQ Kitchen

Celebrating four years strong, Koop’s BBQ Kitchen has grown from a local barbecue spot into a true Galveston favorite. Over the last four years, their commitment to bold flavors, quality smoked meats, and genuine hospitality has earned them loyal regulars and nonstop support from the community. From daily plates to catering events, Koop’s continues to level up while staying rooted in heart and hustle. Cheers to four years of growth, grind, and great BBQ, show them some love and stop by to celebrate this milestone!

Scan Here & Book Today

Las Munchies is a small local snack and candy shop in Galveston known for its colorful mix of treats and party-friendly goodies.

It’s the kind of spot you walk into and immediately see shelves packed with Mexican candy, imported snacks, chips, sweets, and novelty treats you don’t always find in regular stores around the island. Many locals also stop in when they’re putting together party tables, candy setups, or just looking for something different to snack on.

Spare Memories: The Story of

For decades, Island Bowl on Seawall Boulevard was Galveston’s go‑to bowling alley, a lively spot where leagues met weekly, kids celebrated birthdays, and families spent rainy afternoons letting the pins fly and the laughter roll. Locals still reminisce about the classic vibe, the sound of balls thundering down the lanes, arcade games blinking in the corner, and the friendly banter that made it feel like home.

But that chapter of island entertainment came to an abrupt halt in September 2008, when Hurricane Ike struck Galveston. The powerful storm caused widespread damage across the island, and Island Bowl was among the hardest hit. Its building left in ruins and ultimately unusable. The aftermath left behind an empty concrete shell of what had once been a social hub, a visible reminder of the storm’s long‑lasting effects on community life.

Despite occasional nostalgic calls from residents for a revival,

credit: google images

even ideas to turn the old site into a roller skating rink or other community space the original alley has remained vacant and unused for years.

While the old building has stood dormant, the spirit of bowling hasn’t completely left Galveston. A 14‑lane facility opened next to the Galveston Primetime movie theater on the west end of the island. This new spot aims to bring back a beloved social activity for locals and visitors alike and serve families looking for fun, affordable entertainment.

Not our maze but it was very similar! Photo Credit: Google

CREATIVE

Meet Fallon Smith

On any given day in Galveston, you may come across a local artist turning simple sketches into treasured keepsakes. With a pencil in hand and a passion for people, this talented illustrator and animator has found a unique way to connect with the community through heartfelt caricatures.

Creativity has always been a natural part of her life. "I've always been an artist, for as long as I could hold a pen," she says. Growing up, she loved creating characters and drawing short stories, often filling pages with expressive faces and imaginative worlds. Her journey into caricature art began unexpectedly in the summer of 2025. After drawing a picture of her boyfriend and his band, a friend suggested she try creating caricatures. Inspired by the idea, she set up outside an art gallery on The Strand and began sketching portraits for locals and visitors alike. What started as a fun experiment quickly turned into a growing business, leading her to draw at events, festivals, parties, and even private house calls.

Unlike traditional caricature artists who often exaggerate features for comedic effect, her approach is rooted in kindness and appreciation. "I try to be complimentary and kind when drawing my portraits," she explains. "I focus on defining features like eyes, hairstyles, and nose shapes. My goal is for the subject to feel seen and appreciated." That thoughtful approach has led to some unforgettable reactions. Among her favorite moments are when people become emotional upon seeing their finished portrait. "The best response I've gotten is when people tell me they're going to cry when they see their picture," she says. "It feels so nice to make people feel beautiful."

Beyond caricatures, she is also an aspiring animator. Inspired by animated shows such as Steven Universe, OK K.O.! Let's Be Heroes, and Wander Over Yonder, she decided in high school to pursue art as a career. Today, she continues to create animations and share them on YouTube while steadily building her portfolio and pursuing her dreams in the animation industry.

If given the opportunity to draw anyone, she says her dream subject would be acclaimed animator and creator Rebecca Sugar. "I would love to sit down with Rebecca Sugar and draw a caricature of her," she says. "She has gorgeous curly hair, and I'd ask her for advice on breaking into the animation industry."

Vibes Community

Photo Courtesy of: Galveston Juneteenth Birthplace Event Kenneth S., Memorable Moments

JULY EVENTS

13th Annual Ohana Surf Dog Competition

Saturday, July 18 • 8am - 12pm • 2814 Avenue R 1/2, Galveston, TX 77550

Grab your leash and head to the beach! This fun-filled event invites animal lovers and their furry companions to spend the day in the sun while supporting a great cause. Proceeds from the event help further the shelter's mission of caring for animals in need and finding them loving homes.

Even if surfing isn't your thing, there's plenty to enjoy! Browse local vendors, meet fellow pet lovers, and cheer on the four-legged participants. The festivities take place on the beach at 28th Street, across from Ohana Surf & Skate, making it the perfect outing for the whole family.

For more info go to - https://ohanasurfandskate.com/surf-dog/

Save the Locals Free Summer Concert Series

Thursday, July 23 • 6pm - 9pm • 2222 28th Street, Galveston, TX 77550

This vibrant weekly event features Dem Roots Music & Soulfiya on the 23rd. It’s more than just a concert, it’s a gathering space where music and community come together.

Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, coolers, kids, pets, friends, and neighbors. Designed to be welcoming for all ages, Save the Locals is all about connection, culture, and keeping the island spirit alive all summer long.

America's 250th

Night at the Naval Museum

Friday, July 31 • 6pm - 9pm • 100 Seawolf Parkway, Galveston, TX 77551

Bring your chairs or blankets and settle in for a special Friday night concert series honoring 250 years of America’s independence. Enjoy an unforgettable evening filled with live music, family-friendly activities, delicious food trucks, and local vendors.

Guests will also have the opportunity to experience evening tours of the historic vessels at the Galveston Naval Museum, offering a powerful look into the nation’s maritime history.

Every year in July, especially around July 4, Galveston hosts patriotic festivities including:

• A parade along Seawall Boulevard featuring floats, marching bands, and local organizations.

• A fireworks show over the Gulf of Mexico to celebrate Independence Day.

These events are a long‑standing tradition for the island and attract residents and visitors alike each summer.

During July each year, Galveston’s summer calendar often includes:

• Beach music festivals and live entertainment as part of seasonal tourism.

• Sandcastle competitions and similar beach‑oriented activities.

• Family‑friendly summer festivals with art, games, and performances.

These events contribute to the island’s reputation as a lively July destination.

Pre-order your Island Vibe shirt today!

Sizes S to XL are available for immediate purchase. Extended sizes are available upon request. Contact us now to secure yours!

“A Wave From It All” where you can get that much needed rest and relax. What’s that one thing we all look for in a hotel, condo, or vacation rental? Excellent customer service is what we can provide to you and your family. Where we aim to please and know you’ll have the time of your life! Feel free to send a message with any and all questions so we can reach back out to fulfill that escape! Registration number - GVR-05405