SPOTLIGHT
Steven J. Baines Founder & Chief Elevation Officer
Making a Difference Through Leadership and Service
For years, Steven J. Baines has been a driving force in the Galveston community, combining professional leadership with a deep commitment to service. As a leadership consultant, executive coach, and community advocate, Baines has dedicated his career to helping individuals, organizations, and communities grow and thrive.
His impact extends far beyond the workplace. Steven has served in numerous leadership roles across the island, supporting organizations and initiatives that strengthen Galveston’s sense of community. His longtime involvement with Galveston’s Own Farmers Market, from volunteer and board member to board president has helped promote local agriculture, food access, and community engagement.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Baines was selected as the 2025 OkraFest Honoree, a distinction that celebrates individuals whose dedication has left a lasting mark on Galveston. The honor reflects years of service, leadership, and a genuine passion for improving the lives of others.
Through his work and volunteer efforts, Steven J. Baines embodies the values that make Galveston special with community, compassion, and a commitment to helping others succeed. His story serves as a reminder that meaningful leadership begins with service and a desire to make a positive difference wherever you are.
LET'S EAT
ALLEN'S KITCHEN & GRILL with
If you’re looking for comfort food that truly hits the spot, Allen’s Kitchen & Grill is a must visit in Galveston. This local favorite is known for hearty soulful meals made the right way. The oxtails are a standout, slow-cooked until they’re incredibly tender, rich with flavor, and falling right off the bone. The fried fish is just as crave worthy, perfectly seasoned and fried golden brown with a crispy exterior and flaky, flavorful inside. Don’t overlook the sides: the yams are soft, sweet, and comforting, while the cabbage is wellseasoned and cooked just right, adding the perfect savory balance to the plate.
Located at 3701 Winnie St, Allen’s Kitchen & Grill is currently open Monday–Saturday from 5 AM–3:30 PM and Sunday from 10:30 AM–4 PM, making it a go-to spot for early mornings and satisfying midday meals. With generous portions and down-home flavors, it’s the kind of place you leave full, happy, and already planning your next visit.
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Hidden Gem
Daiquiri Time Out (DTO) is a tucked-away Downtown Galveston gem bringing classic cocktails back to the Island since 2016. Located in the former Red Light District at 2701 Market St, DTO offers a calm within the storm vibe with island-style cocktails made from fresh-squeezed juices, house-made syrups, fine spirits, and curated beers. Open Monday–Thursday from 4 PM–12 AM, Friday–Saturday from 4 PM–2 AM, and Sunday from 4 PM–12 AM, with Happy Hour all day Monday and 4 PM–7 PM Tuesday through Friday, it’s the perfect spot to unwind over great drinks and easy conversation.
ISLAND
Juneteenth Community Gatherings
Freedom Announced in Texas
On June 19, 1865, Union Major General Gordon Granger arrives in Galveston and issues General Order No. 3, informing enslaved people in Texas of their freedom, more than two years after emancipation was declared.
By the early 1870s, Black residents of Galveston were holding Emancipation Day celebrations at gathering spaces like Schmidt’s Garden, featuring music, speeches, parades, and shared meals, strengthening Juneteenth as a lasting community tradition.
1872
1863
1865 1866
Emancipation Proclamation
On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issues the Emancipation Proclamation, declaring enslaved people in Confederate states legally free. Its enforcement depended on the advance and presence of Union troops.
Reedy Chapel AME Church
Established
Founded in 1866, Reedy Chapel AME Church became one of the earliest institutions in Galveston where formerly enslaved people gathered for worship, education, and early Juneteenth celebrations.
Early
Traditions Through
Juneteenth continued through churches, communities, and Jim Crow recognition.
THE BIRTHPLACE
State Recognition
Texas becomes the first U.S. state to officially recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday.
Federal Holiday
Juneteenth is officially recognized as a federal holiday, Juneteenth National Independence Day.
Traditions Preserved Through Community continued to be observed churches, families, and Black even as segregation laws limited public recognition.
HISTORY OF JUNETEENTH
Renewed National Awareness
Juneteenth gains increased national attention as cultural organizations, educators, and activists work to preserve and share its history beyond Texas.
A Living History
Juneteenth is observed nationwide as a day of remembrance, education, celebration, and reflection, honoring freedom and the ongoing pursuit of justice. The JJ Shabazz Foundation, Gwynetheia Shabazz Pope, organizer of the Annual Juneteenth Parade and Picnic, and Juneteenth and Beyond Guided Tours preserve its legacy through education, tours, and storytelling.
CREATIVE Mind
Vedella Lewis & Victoria Bridges Owners of VeeVee Luscious
VeeVee Luscious was created from a growing need for clean, trustworthy products that truly support everyday life. Built with community at its core, the brand is rooted in consistency, care, and purpose, aiming to grow into something bigger than beauty alone. Vee Vee Luscious represents pride, trust, and the belief that healthy, intentional choices can leave a lasting legacy for families and future entrepreneurs alike.
Q. Where do you see Vee Vee Luscious in the next 3–5 years, and what does success look like to you beyond revenue?
A. I see VEEVEE Luscious being a thriving online community in the next 3–5 years. As for success beyond the revenue, that looks like being able to provide for our families while still leaving a legacy behind.
Q. What inspired you to create Vee Vee Luscious, and was there a specific moment when you knew this brand needed to exist?
A. The need for clean products that wouldn’t hurt us was the actual inspiration. There wasn’t a specific moment; it was actually over time, as we began to see the need in our community as well as families, and the idea just grew.
Q. How do you want customers to feel when they use Vee Vee Luscious products, not just physically, but emotionally?
A. We want our customers to feel a sense of pride and trust in our brand because they know they can trust our brand and the consistency of the quality they receive, as well as knowing that they are a part of something bigger than themselves, because supporting a small brand like ours encourages others who have the same mindset when it comes to healthy products being a part of everyday life to start their business as well.
Q. Looking back, what advice would you give to your past self, or to other aspiring natural beauty entrepreneurs, who want to build a purpose-driven brand?
A. Looking back, we would tell ourselves to start the business earlier, believe in your vision, and keep pushing, never give up.
Q. Which Vee Vee Luscious product best represents you on a busy day vs. a self-care day?
A. We would have to say on a busy day it would be our aloe hyaluronic acid facial serum moisturizer because it’s quick and easy, and it does everything you need it to do. On a self-care day, we would have to say our Lovely Lotus Bundle, because the Lovely Lotus Bundle requires time and effort, and it makes you slow down and actually take the time to enjoy it, from its fragrant vibes to its enriching nutrients and herbal properties.
Juneteenth Events
2026 Juneteenth Festival & Celebration
Saturday, June 13 • 1pm to 8pm • Menard Park 2222-28th Street
Music, live entertainment, food vendors and much more.
FREE EVENT
Underground Railroad & Living History with the Buffalo Soldiers
Wednesday, June 17 • 10am to 2pm • 1838 Menard House 1604 33rd St
EXPERIENCE THE LEGACY OF THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS THROUGH A LIVING HISTORY
ENCAMPMENT THAT HONORS THEIR SERVICE AND INSPIRES YOUTH TO EMBRACE AND APPRECIATE THIS REMARKABLE HERITAGE.
2026 Juneteenth Music Fest & Fireworks
Friday, June 19 • Menard Park 2222-28th Street
Cultural celebration will feature live music, community tributes, youth recognition, cultural activities, and fireworks.
FREE EVENT
Juneteenth Parade & Picnic
Friday, June 19 • 3pm • 26th Ball to 41st Ball
Line up for parade starts at 1:30pm and the picnics starts after the parade ends!
Hidden Figures - Strand Summer Series
Saturday, June 20 • 7pm to 9pm • Hendley Green 2302 Strand Movie nights return! and begin at dusk!
FREE ADMISSION
JUne events
2026 Juneteenth Festival & Celebration
Saturday, June 13 • 1pm to 8pm • Menard Park 2222-28th Street
Music, live entertainment, food vendors and much more.
FREE EVENT
Underground Railroad & Living History with the Buffalo Soldiers
Wednesday, June 17 • 10am to 2pm • 1838 Menard House 1604 33rd St
EXPERIENCE THE LEGACY OF THE BUFFALO SOLDIERS THROUGH A LIVING HISTORY
ENCAMPMENT THAT HONORS THEIR SERVICE AND INSPIRES YOUTH TO EMBRACE AND APPRECIATE THIS REMARKABLE HERITAGE.
2026 Juneteenth Music Fest & Fireworks
Friday, June 19 • Menard Park 2222-28th Street
Cultural celebration will feature live music, community tributes, youth recognition, cultural activities, and fireworks.
FREE EVENT
Free Sandcastle Building Lessons
Saturday, June 20 • 11am , 1pm, & 3pm • East Beach Pavilion
Galveston is hosting a free, family-friendly event to help beachgoers create cool sandcastles with guidance from a pro.
Summer Time Dinner Buffets from 5pm
- 7pm
Every Friday June 12 - August • Moody Gardens Golf Course 1700 Sydnor Ln
Menu rotates through three themes: Steak Smoke House, Captain's Table, and Italiano. Every buffet includes fresh green salad, pasta salad, mac and cheese, fresh fruit, dinner rolls, chef's choice of vegetables and desserts, plus water, tea, and lemonade.
Adults $24 •Seniors $22 • Children $16, plus tax.
Annual Juneteenth Celebrations
Galveston hosts annual Juneteenth celebrations and events throughout June, including parades, festivals, historical talks, music, and community gatherings. These mark the city’s role as the birthplace of the holiday and draw both residents and visitors.
Modern Commemorations
Leaders and public figures sometimes visit Galveston in June to honor Juneteenth where it began. For example, in June 2025, former President Joe Biden visited historic Reedy Chapel A.M.E. Church in Galveston to commemorate Juneteenth at the site where emancipation was proclaimed.
General June Weather & Conditions
June is part of early hurricane & tropical storm season. While specific storms vary year to year, June weather often includes heat, higher humidity, and early seasonal disturbance activity along the Gulf Coast — conditions that residents and visitors watch closely as summer begins. (General hurricane climatology; not a single specific storm every year.)
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