That Batman car driving around Houston is now for sale

That Batman car driving around Houston is now for sale

If you have a spare $125,000 lying around you can pick up a Batcar in Kingwood, according to a Craigslist ad placed Tuesday.
The owner, John Salazar, has made a few of these Batcars actually. In 2011, he won an Art Car Parade award for his 1960s-era Batman car from the Adam West series and has been a parade regular.
Salazar was also profiled by the Houston Chronicle that year.
He sold that one for a cool $75,000.
Salazar, a real estate investor, said he has loved cars since he was a boy.
This Batcar is modeled off the one from the 1989 Tim Burton Batman flick. The real one is probably in a museum somewhere or in Michael Keaton's garage.
This Batcar doesn't have that cool burner in the back either, or the missiles and machine guns. It doesn't have that automatic anti-theft shield either.

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Fusion Taco to open at Market Square Park

Fusion Taco to open at Market Square Park

Fusion Taco’s David Grossman isn’t particularly fond of “fusion” which has become one of those overworked foodie terms. But fusion is probably the best description for his culinary merger of the familiar taco and global flavors he’s tucking into a corn tortilla.

“I guess we could call them multicultural tacos,” he said, “but it doesn’t have the same ring.”

Customers can call them whatever they want beginning Friday when Fusion Taco, a business born as a Houston food truck, opens its bricks and mortar store at 801 Congress hard on downtown’s Market Square Park. The hip, cheery space – in the home of the former Les Givral restaurant – is the work of Grossman (former chef/owner of Branch Water Tavern) and his fiancee Julia Sharaby, owner/operator of Fushion Taco food truck that she launched in May 2010.

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Houston chef Ja’nel Witt conquers ‘Hell’s Kitchen’

Houstonian Ja’nel Witt bested 26-year-old butcher Mary Poehnelt to win Season 11 of Hell’s Kitchen, the Fox reality cooking competition.
The cooking show pitted 20 professional chefs vying for the head chef position at Gordon Ramsay Pub & Grill at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas with a salary of $250,000.
“I feel on top of the world,” she told television viewers as the champagne flowed. “My life will never be the same.”
In all my years in Hell’s Kitchen, I’ve never seen a more composed individual than Ja’nel,” Ramsay said in a voiceover, “and that is why I’m so happy to have this ambitious, creative and talented as my head chef.”
The 31-year-old Witt was formerly the executive chef of Tintos tapas bar in River Oaks and recently she’s been toiling in the kitchen at Kiran’s.

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The Woodlands Mall gets a new denim store

You may not have heard of Silver Jeans Co., but if you like denim, you've probably worn their products. The brand was launched in 1991 by Canadian company Western Glove Works, a 90-year veteran of the denim industry that has produced jeans for brands including Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, Anna Sui, Gap and Nordstrom.
"Making jeans and making great clothing is something that came naturally to us," said Silver Jeans Co. founder and CEO Michael Silver. "When I launched the brand 22 years ago, I really focused on just making great products and having one girl tell another girl, or having one guy tell another guy and having this little club going."
After two decades of selling jeans through third-party stores, Silver Jeans is building more of a brand identity by creating its own dedicated stores, dubbed "lofts," the first of which opened its doors last week in The Woodlands Mall.

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Galveston Dining Spots

New restaurants add to Galveston dining landscape

I can think of no better summer adventure than being stranded on Galveston Island for a few days.

With its pirate lore and tragic tales of loss, there's so much history to explore. With its boat tours, water park and ride-filled Pleasure Pier, there are days of fun diversions.

And then there's the dining.

I'm a sucker for the barbecue oysters at Gumbo bar, the fried blue crab at Benno's and the Shrimp Salad at Mosquito Cafe. But this summer, I'm too busy exploring the island's new eateries. The old will have to wait.

The island is enjoying a culinary renaissance, and much of the credit goes to Galveston's Own Farmers Market. While the market opened in the fall, it's really beginning to hit its stride. On any given Sunday, you're likely to find a dozen vendors offering produce and fruit, handmade pasta, grass-fed beef, pastured chicken and fresh baked goods.

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Texas BBQ Week (July 15-19

Five day ‘cue salute

Some folks have Restaurant Week. We have Barbecue Week. This July, TMBBQ will host the first ever state-wide Texas Barbecue Week. During this week-long celebration of our culinary heritage, Texans everywhere can visit participating barbecue joints to enjoy a featured “Texas Barbecue Week plate.” It’s a way to support the folks who are working hard to preserve the barbecue tradition—and to eat some of the state’s best smoked meat.

Texas BBQ Week Details

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Chevron to build downtown tower

Chevron U.S.A. is planning to build a new downtown skyscraper for its growing Houston workforce

The energy giant said this morning it will build a 50-story tower with 1.7 million square feet at 1600 Louisiana St. at Pease.

The building will add to Chevron’s existing downtown footprint, which includes 1500 Louisiana and 1400 Smith, the former Enron buildings.

The company said the buildings will comprise an “urban campus with indoor and outdoor common areas, enhanced dining facilities, a fitness center, training and conference facilities, and additional parking.”

“This announcement underscores Chevron’s long-term commitment to Houston and its role as the epicenter of the global energy industry,” Bereket Haregot, president of Chevron’s business and real estate services division said in a statement. “Houston plays a vital and growing role in Chevron’s global business. The new building and expanded urban campus will provide a first-rate work environment for our employees and help us remain the employer of choice.”

The headquarters of Chevron Corp., the parent company of Chevron U.S.A., will remain in California, where it has been located for more than 130 years.

The tower was designed by HOK. Groundbreaking is expected after the second quarter of next year, and occupancy is anticipated to begin in the fourth quarter of 2016.

Chevron employs about 9,000 employees and contractors in Houston, where nine of its businesses are headquartered. In addition to its downtown buildings, the company has locations in Bellaire and the Westchase District.

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Where to find fireworks in the Houston-area

Freedom Over Texas 

When: 4-10 p.m. Thursday 

 Where: Eleanor Tinsley Park, 500 Allen Parkway Admission: $8 (5 and younger free) 

 Details: Don't bring pets, coolers, outside food, alcohol or big umbrellas. freedomovertexas.org But that's not the only game around town. Plenty of other patriotic parties are planned - and there's probably one near you. Here are your best options for free fireworks and fun:

freedomovertexas.org

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Star Trek Shuttle

Restored Star Trek shuttle getting closer to Houston

 restored Star Trek prop is one step closer to coming to Space Center Houston after being brought back to life in New Jersey by some Trekkies and master craftsmen.

The Galileo shuttle, fully restored to its original luster when it was featured in the 1967 Trek episode "The Galileo Seven," is now finished and being crated for shipment to Clear Lake where it will be on display. It should arrive in Houston next week.

It will be shipped in three pieces and reassembled for a July 31st grand opening, says Jack Moore with Space Center Houston. Organizers for Space City Con, which will be held Aug. 2-4, will be throwing a bash for the spacecraft on that day.

Project manager and memorabilia collector Adam Schneider bought the Galileo last year at an auction for $61,000. The prop's condition was less than stellar, and the vehicle was covered in rust. 

Original Article w/ Photo Gallery

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Beyonce and Mumford & Sons

Beyoncé fans, fear not. The grown woman has added a second Houston date to her tour.

The Houston superstar will perform Dec. 10 at Toyota Center. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. July 1 via livenation.com, houstontoyotacenter.com, at 866-446-8849 or at most Randall’s stores. Tickets are $45-$250.

A July 15 show sold out in roughly three minutes.

More concert news: Mumford & Sons have rescheduled a local date. The new show is Sept. 17 at the Woodlands Pavilion. original tickets will be honored.


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Paula Deen

Paula Deen will continue to headline Houston food show

Paula Deen will continue to participate in Metropolitan Cooking & Entertaining Shows, including the show slated for Sept. 14-15 in Houston at Reliant Center, a spokesperson for the food show announced Monday.
Deen, who has been in the midst of a firestorm since she admitted to using racial slurs, also will continue to headline MetroCooking shows in Dallas and Washington, DC, this year.
In a statement from MetroCooking:

“Paula Deen has been a friend of The Metropolitan Cooking & Entertaining Show for many years. She has apologized and we are taking her apology at her word and moving forward accordingly. The Metropolitan Cooking & Entertaining Show does not condone or believe in the use of derogatory slurs by anyone. We abhor the words of hostility and hatred. This is a nation of forgiveness and second chances. In that spirit we intend to go forward with the MetroCooking Shows in Houston, Dallas and Washington, DC as planned with Paula as a presenter. At this time we have no plans to do otherwise.”

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Pride Houston 2013

The Houston LGBT Pride Festival and Parade aren’t the only citywide celebrations. There are 10 days of official Pride events kicking off Thursday:

Pride Superstar Semifinals featuring Alyssa Edwards: Six local singers vie for a slot in the finale of this seventh annual singing competition. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Edwards guest judges and performs. Blake Hayes from Mix 96.5 FM hosts. 9:30 p.m. Thursday at South Beach, 810 Pacific. Free; 18 and older.

Eden — A Pride Girl Party: The first event for the women of the LGBT community, featuring Deejay Kittie. (Guys are welcome, too.) 8 p.m. Friday at the Usual, 5519 Allen. Free; 21 and older.

Pride in the Park: The Houston Dynamo take on Toronto FC during a game dedicated to the local gay community. 8 p.m. Saturday at BBVA Compass Stadium, 2200 Texas. $22 for 200 level seating.

Salvation — A Pride Pool Party: Open bar, light bites and lots of flashy swimsuits. Featuring Special K from KRBE (104.1 FM). 1 p.m. Sunday at the Morty Rich Hostel, 501 Lovett. Donations taken at the door.

Dine With Pride: Enjoy a meal at Gratifi Kitchen and Bar in Montrose, and a portion of your bill goes to Pride Houston. Monday at 302 Fairview.

Rock the Runway: A swimwear/underwear fashion show featuring male and female models. Hosted by Special K. 8 p.m. Tuesday at South Beach. Free; 18 and older.

REEL Pride: Screening of the documentary “Breaking Through,” which features openly LGBT political leaders discussing professional triumphs and personal challenges. Houston Mayor Annise Parker is featured in the film. 7 p.m. Wednesday at River Oaks Theatre, 2009 W. Gray. $10.

Pride Superstar Finale: The final four singers compete for the title and prizes, including time at Urbana Recording Studio (home of La Mafia), a cruise and an entry in the Pride Parade. 9:30 p.m. June 27 at South Beach. Free; 18 and older.

Wonderland Houston: Second annual circuit dance party featuring DJ Brett Henrichsen and cirque aerialists. Winter Wonderland is this year’s theme. 9 p.m. June 28 at Bayou Music Center, 520 Texas. $30-$75; 18 and older.

Houston LGBT Pride Celebration: The festival runs 1-7 p.m. June 29 south of Westheimer along Commonwealth and Yoakum streets. It features performances by celebrity grand marshals Jaymes Vaughan and James Davis (Team Chippendales from “The Amazing Race”), Alexis Jordan, Chanel Dror, Lauren Miller, Jess Walker, Christian Andreason, Kitten Kay Sera, Courtney Locke and more. The parade starts at 8 p.m. June 29 and runs down Westheimer between Dunlavy and Montrose.

Pride Houston After Party: DJ Drew G. plays his signature dance-pop mashups. “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Jessica Wild performs and meets fans. 10 p.m. June 29 at South Beach. $15 advance, $20 at the door; 18 and older.

Rapture — A Pride Foam Party: Party in 10,000 cubic square feet of cubic foam on the dance floor. Don’t wear anything you really like. 9 p.m. June 30 at South Beach. Free before 10 p.m. by texting SOBE to 46786, $8 after 10 p.m.; 18 and older.


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Houston Food Park

The Bayou City is finally getting a food truck park.


Houston Food Park, 1504 St. Emmanuel, will mark its grand opening on June 22. Festival hours will be 3 p.m.-8 p.m. and approximately nine food trucks are expected to participate. Among them Yummyz Kitchen, Coreanos, POCKet to Me and Betton’s Comfort Food.

The park will be open for lunch daily beginning June 24.

HFP partners Jack Gillett, Ponce Tirzo and Miguel Villegas were spreading their message and reaching out to Houston’s food truck community this week via Facebook and Twitter. The trio are passionate about Houston and its vibrant food scene.

“Why does Houston have to play catch up to smaller cities like Austin?” Tirzo asked, referencing Austin’s long established food truck parks. “We want to change that.”

The Houston Food Park will be on the site of the former Meridian Club in EaDo. Tirzo says the space, as is, can handle eight to nine food trucks at any one time.

The HFP team are hoping to utilize a nearby parking lot once a month to accommodate as many as 20 food trucks. The expanded space will be a part of plans to make the Houston Food Park a venue for special events.

“We want to bring an urban festival scene to the city,” Tirzo said. “We want to celebrate arts, food and music in a setting that reflects Houston as the melting pot it is.”

To that end, the several events are already in the works, including a Retro Festival and a Beyond the Blacktop event. The HFP team wants to promote non-profit events that give back to the city.

Also in the works, a lounge and concert venue that will complement the food trucks.

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Kenny & Ziggy’s to be featured on History Channel

Look for Kenny & Ziggy’s Delicatessen to be featured on the series debut of “John Pinette, All You Can Eat” on the History Channel 2 on June 23.

Chef/owner Ziggy Gruber was taped talking about the Zellagebetsky, an eight-decker sandwich made with six different meats, Swiss cheese, cole slaw, Russian dressing and sweet red pepper on rye. Kenny & Ziggy’s gives a free slice of cheesecake to any customer who can eat the sandwich without any help. The Zellagabetsky, $48, is actually meant to be shared.

Kenny & Ziggy’s New York Delicatessen Restaurant is located at 2327 Post Oak Blvd. in the heart of the Galleria area. The restaurant is open 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday, 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.

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Comicpalooza

Check out stars of Galacticon, comic books and more at Comicpalooza

Much in the same way a football stadium provides sanctuary for both the muscle-bound athlete and the freezing-yet-shirtless fan who admires him, comic conventions offer a meeting place for, say, the guy who writes a steampunk novel based on an album by Canadian prog-rock band Rush as well as the fans of such fiction, whomever they may be. The Texas International Comic Con, which also answers to Comicpalooza, arrives in the George R. Brown Convention Center this weekend. (The opportunity to temporarily rename it the George R.R. Martin Convention Center has either been rejected or not yet suggested.) Fans of science fiction, fantasy, horror, action and all sorts of once-maligned fiction genres in books, movies, TV and comics can gather in a place where no one will be judged for dressing like Boba Fett, where ideas and enthusiasms are shared and exchanged, where comic books are currency.

Texas International Comic Con

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Star Trek in houston

Famed Star Trek ship finds a new home in Houston

A piece of Star Trek history is coming to Space Center Houston, courtesy of some Trek fans that picked up quite the sci-fi prop at an auction last year.

Trek fans may remember the 1967 episode "The Galileo Seven", where the science officers aboard the Enterprise use a shuttlecraft called the Galileo to explore a star system. That prop was bought at an auction last year by collector Adam Schneider for $61,000. The prop's condition was less than stellar, and the trailer-sized vehicle was coated in rust. A Trek fan had bought in the '80s for just around $2,000.

Schneider is a part of a group of Trekkers that wanted to buy the Galileo for an extensive, fan-funded restoration project. Now that it has been restored to its '60s luster, it has been donated to Space Center Houston, where it will sit in the visitor center next to other very real spacecraft from NASA history.

Schneider says it is leaving the warehouse where it is being restored this month and will arrive in Houston in late July.

Space Center Houston spokesman Jack Moore says that the plan is to have Galileo installed at the complex by the end of the year. They are currently ironing out plans for the transportation of Galileo to SCH and its display once it arrives.

Original Article w/ Photo Gallery


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Craw-Wish Boil

Armadillo Palace hosts ‘Craw-Wish Boil’ for a good cause

We’ve all heard of a crawfish boil. Now Goode’s Armadillo Palace wants to familiarize you with a “Craw-Wish Boil.”

That’s the name they’re giving to a first-year event benefitting the Gulf Coast & Louisiana chapter of Make-a-Wish Foundation to be held on Saturday, May 11 from noon to 4 at Armadillo Palace, 5015 Kirby. The 21-and-over party, presented by Goode Company Restaurants, will feature all-you-can-eat crawfish and all-you-can-drink beer for $25 per person in advance or $30 at the door. Music will be provided by the Derailers and Curtis Pollard and the Creole Zydeco Band.

Armadillo Place will be open during the party serving is full menu and bar at regular prices.

Goode Company hopes to make it an annual event.

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Audition for the Texas Renaissance Festival

If you ever wanted to be a part of the Texas Renaissance Festival auditions will be held on two upcoming sessions from 8:30 – noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday May 4 and Saturday May 11 at Texas Renaissance Festival grounds at 21778 FM 1774 Todd Mission.

Auditions for performers are open to everyone, but you must register first by calling 1-800-458-3435. The performers stay true to character as the ren fest runs for eight-themed weekends in the fall.



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Black Sabbath to open tour at Woodlands Pavilion

Black Sabbath will open it’s North American tour July 25 at the Woodlands Pavlion. The announcement comes on the heels of frontman Ozzy Osbourne’s admission that he has been drinking and taking drugs for the last year-and-a-half.

“I was in a very dark place and was an (expletive) to the people I love most, my family,” he posted on Facebook. “However, I am happy to say that I am now 44 days sober. Just to set the record straight, Sharon and I are not divorcing. I’m just trying to be a better person.”

Here’s hoping he’s back on track. (But is going on the road really the best decision right now?)

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Burns BBQ adds Cajun to menu

Burns BBQ has introduced authentic smoked Cajun boudin to its menu. Boss man Cory Crawford is dabbling with the idea of adding turkey legs, too.

Customer appreciation day is May 4. Burns BBQ is owned by the family of Los Angeles Dodgers star Carl Crawford. It’s at 8307 De Priest St. in the Acres Home neighborhood of Houston. Burns BBQ is the real deal.

Burns BBQ

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Houston Pride

Well its almost that time of year again, houston gay pride is just around the corner so get ready for another fun time to be had by all...

Houston Pride June 21-30

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‘Amazing Race’ to headline Pride Houston

Jaymes Vaughan and James Davis, who competed as Team Chippendales on “The Amazing Race,” headline this year’s Pride Houston festivities. (Doing what, you ask?)

The duo will perform a musical set during the festival (1-7 p.m. June 29 in Montrose). Vaughan is a singer and Davis plays guitar. They employ those talents, among others, during a nightly Chippendales show their own theater in Las Vegas.

“The amount of love and support we have received from the LGBT community has been beyond overwhelming,” Vaughan says. “And now Houston opening their arms to us as well is really just amazing. It’s such a fun, exciting, big city — and we could not be more excited to actually get to perform there.”
Vaughan released a dance track, “Vampire,” in 2011. Proceeds from his new single, “Tonight,” will be used to help with bills accumulated from his late father’s battle with cancer.

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Coastal seafood restaurant Eleven XI to open next month

Coastal seafood restaurant Eleven XI to open next month

If you do an Internet search on "11:11," you'll find a lot of writings on numerology, synchronicity and spirituality. Whatever meaning owners of the new restaurant Eleven XI ("eleven eleven") intended - they say it refers to "the wishing hour" - they're hoping the name proves fortuitous.

"There seems to be inherent good magic to it," said Joe Welborn, one of Eleven XI's partners. "At the end of the day, it's luck."

Houston restaurant-goers will have to wait until the first full week of May, though, to see if luck visits the new restaurant at 607 W. Gray. That's when general manager Welborn (formerly of Soma Sushi and the Rockwood Room), bar manager Joe Hausner (formerly of Eddie V's at CityCentre) and chef Kevin Bryant (who local foodies know from Tony's, the Capitol at St. Germain and most recently L'Olivier) are set to open a new Southern coastal restaurant in the former Bibas Diner space.

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Everything you need to know about downtown Houston

Everything you need to know about downtown Houston

How well do you know downtown Houston? If you just moved to the area or live, work and play outside the Loop, navigating the center of our great city can be daunting.
But not to worry - this is a comprehensive guide to all you can see and do downtown - even Houston experts might find something new to get excited about.

Highlights and landmarks
Let's start with the sightseeing. Here are all the stops you'll want to make if you take one big tour of downtown or spread it out over the weeks, months or years.
READ: Are you up on all things downtown Houston?

Downtown dining
Traipsing around the city will probably leave you hungry. Our resident foodie, Alison Cook, has chosen several downtown restaurants as her Top 100. And she's adding to her list of favorites as new eateries continue to open.
READ: Several of Alison Cook's favorites are found in the heart of the city

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The Pearland Crawfish Festival

The Pearland Crawfish Festival (Photo Gallery)

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Take laid-back approach to feasting on mudbugs

For many crawfish lovers, it's not just the mudbugs that appeal this time of the year.
It's the whole crawfish scene: kicking back on a large patio, enjoying a cool breeze, a cold beer and a couple pounds of crawfish with friends.
Here are some places with patio scenes as good as the crawfish. Prices were current at press time but can fluctuate.

- At Crazy Alan's Swamp Shack in Kemah, a recording tells callers the current prices on crawfish. It's $5.99 per pound for up to 4 pounds. For 5 pounds or more, the price drops to $4.99. Time your visit for 6-9 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, when mudbugs go for $3.99 a pound.

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How to eat crawfish

Eating crawfish the right way




It's crawfish season, which conjures images of patio parties with buckets of beers and platters of juicy, hot-from-the-boiling-pot crustaceans. Don't sit on the sidelines just because you've never eaten a boiled crawfish.
Here's a do-it-yourselfer's guide to eating crawfish.
1. OFF WITH THE HEAD: Grasp the head in one hand and the tail in the other hand. Twist the tail one way and then the other to break it loose. Pull the tail away from the head. Set the head aside.
2. PEEL 'EM: Crush and peel away two or three segments of shell from the tail to expose more meat.
3. TO THE TOOTH: With your teeth, grab the meat that's sticking out and pull it out. If there's some tail meat remaining, pull it off with your fingers.
4. HEAD LINING: Pick up the head. Using your index finger, scrape out the fat. Or you can do like the big boys and suck it out.
5. CLAWS OUT: If the claws are big, take the segment that moves easily and pull it down. Take the meat off with your teeth.


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Music, mudbugs and much more

April is the best time of year to sit around a heat source and cook a bunch of food while live music plays. Because it's crawfish season, mudbugs are the dominant food of choice at the various festivals happening nearby over the next few weeks. But there also is some BBQ to be found. Following is a round-up of some of the upcoming festivals.

Pearland Crawfish Festival
Blues and zydeco will make up the soundtrack with more than 25 performers, including the Zydeco Dots, Bon Ton Mickey & the Zydeco Highsteppers, John Egan and Dave Nevling & the Blues Kats. Crawfish, naturally, will be readily available at $3.50 a pound, along with an assortment of Cajun and festival food. The festival also will have carnival rides. It spans three days and benefits Friends of Pearland Westside Library and the Houston Blues Society.
When: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday
Where: The west side of Texas 288, between FM 2234 and Broadway
Tickets and full list of performers: $5-$18 (children younger than 12 and service men and women with current ID get in free); www.pearlandcrawfishfestival.com.

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Indulgent pizza coming to hot Montrose bar

It never ceases to amaze what comes out of the mobile kitchen parked behind Boheme.
Chef Richi Singh

In his makeshift kitchen, chef Rishi Singh produces some of the city's most interesting -- and tastiest -- pizzas.The Montrose wine bar offers nearly two dozen imaginative lavash-style pizzas. Singh is a master of fusion. He frequently subs concoctions such as Korean-inspired barbecue sauce or a nutty Middle Eastern-style pepper spread for tomato sauce.

His latest pizza is all about indulgence. The tomato sauced flatbread is topped with foie gras(!), arugula, Mongolian oil onions, rosemary, mozzarella and honey.

The pizza goes on sale Monday, April 8 and will set you back $33. (We said it was all about indulgence.)

If that's a little rich for your blood, may we suggest the Dutchie ($16) with its sciracha-spiked tomato sauce, pancetta, and fresh basil or the Tart Goat & Greens ($16), a garlick-y pizza with goat cheese, cranberry, roasted tomato and arugula.

Boheme: 307 Fairview, 713-529-1099
Open at 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 3 p.m. Friday and noon Saturday-Sunday. Happy hour: all day Sunday-Monday and 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday-Friday



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Memorial Day fireworks

Memorial Day fireworks in The Woodlands

THE WOODLANDS, Texas -- Celebrate Memorial Day weekend with free concerts, fireworks presented by Wells Fargo, food, fun, strolling entertainers and more as The Woodlands Convention & Visitors Bureau hosts “Memorial Day in The Woodlands,” May 25 – 26, 2013, from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at Waterway Square.

On Saturday, May 25, bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the Country & Variety sounds of Leannasaurus Rex from 6 p.m. – 7:20 pm followed by the classic rock sounds of The Rock-a-Fellas from 7:40 p.m. – 9 p.m. Immediately following the concert, enjoy a fantastic fireworks display presented by Wells Fargo, weather permitting.

The fun continues on Sunday with the country/alternative band Josh Fuller and Dirt & Diesel taking the stage from 6 p.m. – 7:20 pm. Nobody’s Fool, with Kelley Peters, will close out the night playing a variety of sounds from 7:40 p.m. - 9 p.m. Once again, the night sky will light up with a dazzling fireworks display as the music ends.

Memorial Day in The Woodlands is free and open to the public thanks to Wells Fargo, The Woodlands Development Company, The Woodlands Resort & Conference Center, Kyle Sherburne – State Farm Insurance, Munday Chevrolet, Wright’s Printing, Kroger, Bud Light and Xfinity.

Paid covered parking is available at the 24 Waterway Parking Garage (located at corner of Fountain Plaza & Lake Robbins Drive), the Waterway Square Parking Garage (between Fountain Plaza and Woodloch Court) and the surface parking lot along the corner of Waterway Avenue and Timberloch Place. “Memorial Day” attendees will also find limited, free curbside parking along Lake Robbins Drive, Waterway Avenue, Waterway Square Place, and Timberloch Place.
For more information on the event, visit www.thewoodlandscvb.com/memorialday.asp or call 281-363-2447.


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Upcoming Food Events

Wine

Education: Wine 101 Tasting Class at Circle S Vineyards, 9920 U.S. 90A, Sugar Land; $20; 2-4 p.m. Saturday; 281-265-9463.

Road trip: Spring Bluebonnet Wine and Cheese Trail at wineries in Plantersville, Montgomery, Bryan, College Station, Brenham, Navasota, Burton and Richards; $25/$45 for two; noon-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday and April 13-14; Texasbluebonnetwinetrail.com.

Wine Workshop: Learn about the grapes that provide several popular wines and sample six, including prosecco, sheeraz, brut and rose (you must be 21 or older); $10; 6:30 p.m. Monday; Central Market, 3815 Westheimer; 713-993-9860 or www.centralmarket.com.

Cornerstone wine dinner: Wine dinner at Fleming's, 2405 W. Alabama; $125 ($100 for Cornerstone Wine Club members); 6:30 p.m. April 10; alexc@cornerstonecellars.com or 713 520-5959.

Tasting: Blind tasting at GenuWine Tasting Room, 6503 FM 1488, Magnolia; 6-8 p.m. Saturday; $45 wine club members, $50 others; 832 934-2675.

Deep vine wines: Ungrafted: Wines from Deep Vines with Christian Varas of River Oaks Country Club as part of Vanessa Treviño Boyd's Sommelier Series; $40; 6-7:30 p.m. April 10; Phil's Wine Bar, 1800 Post Oak; kgarver@philippehouston.com.

Cooking

Gnocchi 101: Learn to make classic Italian dumplings and easy sauces from scratch; $69; 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday; Sur La Table, 2210 Lone Star (Sugar Land Town Square); www.surlatable.com, 281-242-2238 or cooking116@surlatable.com.

Dinner party in Venice: Make Italian dishes such as classic bruschetta, cannelonni and more; $69; 6:30 p.m. Thursday; Well Done Cooking Classes, 1208 E. 29th St.; 832-782-3518 or www.welldonecc.com.

Flavorful Friday night dinner: Start your weekend learning to make several new dishes with crab, chicken, vegetables and dessert; $69; 6:30-9 p.m. Friday; Central Market, 3815 Westheimer; 713-993-9860 or www.centralmarket.com.

Soulful entertaining: Elliot Farmer will demonstrate more healthful versions of traditional Southern foods; 6-9 p.m. Friday; Urban Chef Cooking School, 3651 Weslayan, Suite 204; urbanchefhouston.com or 713-504-1700.

Italian bread: Learn to make an assortment of rustic Italian breads; $69; 10 a.m.-noon Saturday; Sur La Table, 1996 W. Gray; www.surlatable.com or 800-243-0852.

Moroccan cuisine: Chef Jon Boulos will have you preparing traditional couscous, chicken tagine, red lentils with carmelized onions and lemon sorbet; 6-9 p.m. Saturday; Urban Chef Cooking School, 3651 Weslayan, Suite 204; urbanchefhouston.com or 713-504-1700.



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Bayou City History

Houston Beatles fans twist and shout at 1965 concert

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Texas wildflowers

Texas wildflowers

• 

Texas wildflowers (Photo Gallery)

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Memorial Hermann to build Pearland hospital

Memorial Hermann to build Pearland hospital

Memorial Hermann said Monday it will build a medical campus in Pearland, developing a 40-acre site, which already includes an outpatient imaging center, lab and medical office building.
The centerpiece of the new campus will be a 64-bed acute care hospital, which will open in 2015 on the southbound side of Highway 288 near FM 518. A groundbreaking ceremony will be announced soon, the hospital said.
“This new medical campus gives Pearland and surrounding areas better access to the expertise of Memorial Hermann and provides a place for medical professionals and the region’s top specialists to care for their patients closer to home,” Dan Wolterman, President and CEO of Memorial Hermann Health System, said in a statement.
The hospital notes U.S. Census Bureau figures that Pearland is ranked as the 15th fastest growing city in the United States. Others have begun medical projects in the area.
The new Memorial Hermann facility will include a “one-of-a-kind” convenient care center, scheduled to open later this year, the hospital said. It will provide adult and pediatric primary care, specialty physicians, sports medicine and rehabilitation and a 24-hour emergency room.



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17th Annual Crawfish

7th Annual Crawfish Boil VIP Crawfish Cruises

April 14, 2013 @ 12:00 PM Live Music. Live Boiled Crawfish. Live Fun! All-You-Can-Eat from 12:00pm! Tickets are $30 per adult, $10 per child!

Contact Details

Visit Our Business Directory Listing: Landry's Seafood Restaurant

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Inner Loop Dunkin’ Donuts

Coming Soon: Inner Loop Dunkin’ Donuts

Dunkin’ Donuts is about to fill a hole inside the Loop.

A pink and orange sign outside the former Arby’s location at Shepherd Drive and Fairview indicates the chain will be opening soon. For now, the closest Dunkin’ Donuts to Loop 610 is at 5406 Bellaire Blvd. about a mile outside the Loop.

The location will be one of 16 Houston-area stores announced as part of an expansion last year.
The chain is hoping to get a bigger piece of the market, which is dominated by Houston-based Shipley Do-Nut. You don’t have to drive far to find one of Shipley’s 115 locations across the Houston area.

Plus, Colliers International’s Houston office just reported a lease for Dunkin’ Donuts – Baskin Robbins store at 4130 Fairmont Parkway in Pasadena.

If you’ve seen a new location around town, add it to the comments below.


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Easter dining 2013

Easter dining 2013: deals, meals and other hare-raising fun

No bunny does Easter brunch like these Houston-area restaurants.

These meals and deals are available March 31. Prices are exclusive of tax and gratuity (which can be as much as 22 percent in some cases). Restaurants are strongly advised. Some restaurants may require at deposit when you make your reservation.

strawberry shortcake as served at Brennan's of Houston.: Courtesy photo

Table service

Backstreet Cafe: Three course menu with options such as roasted asparagus and crabmeat salad, Grilled Rainbow Troute with avocado-tomato salad and corn pudding and Butterscotch Bread Pudding. Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost: $45 ($12 for ages 10 and younger).
1103 S. Shepherd, 713-521-2239

The Bird & The Bear: A la carte menu highlights include Wild Boar Sausage Omelet ($18), seafood paella ($25) and braised herb-crusted quail ($24). Hours: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
2810 Westheimer, 713-528-2473

Bistro Provence: Three course menu with options such as fava bean soup, chicken with crawfish cream sauce and rice pilaf and lemon meringue tart. Hours: 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Cost: $44.
13616 Memorial Dr., 713-827-8008

Brennan's Houston: Three course menu. Highlights include BBQ Breaux Bridge Crawfish Enchilada, Lamb Debris with Sweet Potato Waffles and strawberry shortcake. Open: 10 a.m. Cost: $55. Also live music and a visit from the Easter Bunny.
3300 Smith St., 713-522-9711

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tequila bar on Main Street

Heugel & company to open tequila bar on Main Street

Bobby Heugel of Anvil Bar likes to share.

His latest “news release” is a letter outlining his and his associates’ plans. Most of the news includes a name for his growing company/business ties -- Clumsy Butcher -- and a new concept, a mezcal and tequila bar coming in late summer/fall to Main Street.

Bobby Heugel: Johnny Hanson : 29-95

 

His lengthy letter was addressed to "Social Butterflies & Press." If you self-identify, you can read the rest for yourself.

Dear Houston Social Butterflies & Press:
It’s been four years since March 2009, when Kevin Floyd and I opened Anvil Bar & Refuge. Since that time, with the addition of our partner Michael Burnett, we’ve opened: The Hay Merchant; partner Chris Shepherd’s restaurant, Underbelly; Blacksmith Coffee Shop (with partners David Buehrer and Ecky Prabanto); and The Original OKRA Charity Saloon (with a group of friends and partners). We’ve also announced plans to open a cocktail bar called Julep with Alba Huerta. In our spare time, we’ve taken over operations of the Original Ninfa’s on Navigation and Antone’s. What started as a small cocktail bar has grown into a small company, one that’s focused on supporting talented folks and on generating concepts that play a respectful role in the Houston community.

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Watercolor on display at biggest event of year

Some Houston galleries pride themselves on severe editing, hanging exhibits with fewer than a half-dozen works of art.

Not the Watercolor Art Society-Houston, whose walls are chockablock during its biggest event of the year, the 36th annual International Exhibition. Ninety paintings were accepted into the juried show. Most are for sale, and Saturday the society’s parking lot will be filled with bargain buys created by area watercolor artists.

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More Information

36th International Exhibition
When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, through April 4; annual Outdoor Art Fair 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday
Where: Watercolor Art Society-Houston, 1601 W. Alabama
Tickets: Free; 713-942-9966, www.watercolorhouston.org

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Meet the pitmasters of Houston BBQ Fest

Meet the pitmasters of Houston BBQ Fest

The first Houston BBQ Festival, which will be March 24, will include Blake's BBQ, The Brisket House, Brook's Place BBQ, Burns BBQ, CorkScrew BBQ, Fainmous BBQ, Gary Burns Old Fashioned Pit Bar-B-Q, Gatlin's BBQ, Gerardo's, Lenox Bar-B-Que, Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue, Ray's BBQ Shack, Tin Roof BBQ, Virgie's Bar-B-Que and Killen's BBQ. 

Houston BBQ Fest (Photo Gallery)

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James Beard award nominations

Houston well represented in James Beard award nominations

Houston chefs Hugo Ortega and Chris Shepherd have made the final cut of five finalists for the James Beard Foundation's Best Chef Southwest award.

Ortega, of Hugo's, and Shepherd, of Underbelly, will compete for the 2013 title against Bryce Gilmore of Austin's Barley Swine, Jennifer Jasinski of Denver's Rioja, and Kevin Binkley of Binkley's in Phoenix. The winner will be announced at the Beard Foundation's annual awards gala, to be held at New York City's Avery Fisher Hall on May 6, with actor/director and cookbook author Stanley Tucci as emcee. The awards are considered to be the most prestigious in the American food world.

Chronicle critic Alison Cook again has been nominated as a finalist for the Craig Claiborne Distinguished Restaurant Review Award. Other top critic finalists were Patric Kuh of LA Magazine and Tejal Rao of Village Voice.

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Tom Wilson-designed River Oaks home

Tom Wilson-designed River Oaks home boasts acre-plus lot

On more than an acre, this imposing River Oaks estate is surrounded by towering trees and pristine grounds.
Listing agent Jeanne Turner of Greenwood King Properties Kirby office described the Tom Wilson design as sophisticated boasting extraordinary attention to every detail inside and out.
With more than 11,000 square feet, the two-story home offers numerous memorable appointments throughout its thoughtfully designed floor plan.
The entry foyer with its staircase sets the tone for the magnificent trim work and detail found throughout the home, which features mahogany trim, hardwood and limestone floors, and beamed ceilings.

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Patrick's Day in Houston 2013

St. Patrick's Day in Houston 2013: Find your party spot

There are plenty of places to party on St. Patrick’s Day, but one of the more special celebrations is at The Harp.

The pre-party is Saturday night when representatives from Jameson’s Irish Whiskey and SportsRadio 610 will be on hand with drink specials and giveaways from 8-10 p.m. Then, on Sunday, it’s a parking-lot party starting at noon. Festivities include Irish dancers, bagpipers, live music, food and drink specials. 1625 Richmond, 713-528-7827

Of course, the party has been going on all week at Griff’s. In its 48th year, Griff’s celebration continues Thursday with the crowning of the bar’s St. Paddy’s Day Queen. On Saturday, the day begins with a caravan to the downtown St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Back at the bar, there will be Irish stew and chili cookoffs. On Sunday, the day begins early with live music and features green beer and a “lot of shenanigans.” Admission on Sunday is $10. 3416 Roseland, 713-528-9912

Celtic Gardens and its sister bar, Pub Fiction, will team up for two days of St. Patrick’s hijinks. Doors open at 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday; live bands will play on two stages both days, green beer and freshly grilled party fare will be available. 2300 Louisiana, 713-900-2500

Another tag-team celebration includes Lucky's Pub and Cork Soakers in EaDo. Doors open at 9 a.m. for this huge parking-lot party. Fifteen bands will perform, as well as bagpipers. And organizers are promising the world’s largest Harlem Shake. Advance tickets are $10; a VIP ticket good for private bars, restrooms and complimentary snacks is $50. Purchase tickets online at luckyspub.com. 801 St. Emanuel, 713-522-2010.

Lucky’s-Heights (2520 Houston, 713-862-2400) and Lucky’s-Cypress (27126 Northwest Freeway, 281-758-2514) also will be hosting large St. Patrick’s celebrations.

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Houston Barbecue Festival

Sunday 24 March 2013 from 1pm-5pm at the Bayou City Event Center for a celebration of Houston barbecue and the people who make it.
Participating Houston barbecue joints:

• Blake's BBQ • The Brisket House
• Brooks' Place BBQ • Burns BBQ
• CorkScrew BBQ • Fainmous BBQ
• Gary Burns Old Fashioned Pit Bar-B-Q
• Gatlin's BBQ • Gerardo's
• Lenox Bar-B-Que • Pizzitola's Bar-B-Cue
• Ray's BBQ Shack
• Tin Roof BBQ • Virgie's Bar-B-Que

• Limited availability

• All tickets sold in advance

• No sales at the door
Houston Barbecue Festival

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Waterway Cruisers

Waterway Cruisers

 

The Woodlands Waterway Cruiser (formerly known as Water Taxis) —A fun way to get around The Woodlands Town Center.

For those who want to have a relaxing ride and take in the scenery, you can take a boat tour on a Waterway Cruiser along The Woodlands Waterway®, a 1.4 mile long corridor.

We have six Waterway Cruisers that travel along The Woodlands Waterway providing the perfect way to explore all the amenities that the Waterway has to offer. Along both sides of the corridor are businesses, restaurants, office buildings, hotels and urban residential. The east end of the corridor is anchored by The Woodlands Mall and the west end is anchored by The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion and Town Green Park.

Plato Papas Marina
1100 Lake Robbins Drive
The Woodlands, Texas 77380
Phone: 281-367-1151

HOURS OF OPERATION*

Friday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (The last round trip starts at the mall turn at 8 p.m.)
Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. (The last round trip starts at the mall turn at 9 p.m.)
Sunday: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (The last round trip starts at the mall turn at 7 p.m.)

COST

A general public day pass with unlimited rides on the cruisers is $5.
Youth (12 and under), Seniors (65 and older), and Disabled pay $2.50.

Tickets can be purchased when you board the Waterway Cruisers with cash or credit. The Waterway Cruisers are wheelchair accessible.




Route Map (PDF)

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Live at Night at Waterway Square

Live at Night at Waterway Square

March 16, 2013 @ 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

People of all ages are invited to “Live at Night” as it returns this Spring to Waterway Square in The Woodlands with live outdoor music every Saturday March 2 - April 27, 2013, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
The backdrop for this Woodlands live music event are the beautiful Fountains at Waterway Square.
This is a family-friendly, free event that showcases local bands.

Band: Jesse Roach

Live At Night


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Astrodome Glory Days

The Astrodome (Photo Gallery)

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Java Central

Java Central: 10 places that make the Heights THE place to get a cup

Long term residents of the Heights area don’t have to probe far into our little grey cells to recall a time when, true or not, the common lament was “The Heights is nice and all, but there are just no restaurants over there.” I was thinking of that just this morning as I was considering my now-plentiful options to get some coffee.

That gripe was always overblown, in my opinion. I’ve lived in the Heights since 1988, and predating me is Someburger, Spanish Flowers, Andy’s, the old 11th Street Cafe, Texas Cafeteria, Tampico Seafood and so many other small and large places too numerous to mention.   I’m not saying the neighborhood was chock full of places to eat, but it wasn’t exactly the wasteland that so many thought.

Well, much has been written about how the Heights is now something of a restaurant Mecca, with more quality establishments opening all the time along the main arteries of White Oak, 11th Street, Studewood and West 19th. The Heights is also becoming more and more well-known as Hamburger Central, with amazing fare coming from the previously-mentioned Someburger, the Creeks (Onion, Dry and, slightly to the west, Cedar), Hubcap Grill (also slightly to the west of the Heights) Beck’s Prime, and more. (I stop this list here not because I’ve run out of options but because there are simply too many to mention. Seriously, type in “hamburger” and “The Heights” in Urbanspoon, Yelp or whatever your restaurant app of choice and marvel at the list.)

But let’s begin again with the coffee.  Back in 1998, on the morning of my fourth of four Heights area moves, I went out to get some of the brown elixir vitae for everyone helping us settle in. As I drove out from our West 23rd renovation job (at that point, more after-the-fall Osgiliath than Rivendell), I realized that there was nowhere for me to go in the neighborhood.  So I settled on heading south to the End of the Universe on West Gray at Shepherd, choose from one of the two Starbucks there and headed back to the neighborhood wondering, as so many of us did at that time, how much money could be made by opening a simple coffee shop in the Heights.

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Guide helps you navigate rodeo traffic

Whether this year’s Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, which starts Monday, is your first or 81st, getting around can be difficult, and traffic can certainly take longer than eight seconds.

Driving: Getting to Reliant Park is a matter of taking Loop 610, or Texas 288. Key intersections include Kirby Drive and Old Spanish Trail.

Parking: There are three public parking lots with access, via shuttles or Metrorail. One lot is on Old Spanish Trail, one is on Main and another is south of Loop 610, accessible off Bellfort. Prices vary based on the lot. A second Old Spanish Trail lot will open for the Spring Break Stampede.

Horse: I don’t recommend traveling by horse, but it’s a rodeo. Do what you need to do.
The solution, for some buckaroos, might be to take a shuttle or train.

Shuttles: Metro is offering shuttles from area park and ride locations. Prices are $4 or $6.50 round-trip, depending on which park and ride you choose. The Rodeo Express also ferries people back and forth.

Train: Metrorail runs later, and connects downtown with Reliant.

Parking Lot Map (PDF Doc)
Parking Cost
Houston Metro
Houston Metro Poster
Houston Metro Rodeo Express


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How to make a Texas diet more Mediterranean

The big diet news this month is the Mediterranean diet, which is being touted as heart-healthy thanks to its use of healthy, vegetable-based fats instead of other fats that can cause heart disease.

In a five year study in which some participants at Mediterranean diets and others ate standard low-fat diets, those who ate Mediterranean diets had a 30 percent lower combined rate of heart attack, stroke and death from related causes.

And, those on the Mediterranean diet were actually able to eat more fat.

"It's very important to note that the fats in a Mediterranean diet are typically what we refer to as healthy fats — unsaturated oils like fish oil, olive oil, and seed oils like canola, soybean or flaxseed – which studies have shown may have a protective effect on the heart," said Dr. Sharon Robinson, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension nutrition specialist.

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Mesquite-smoked Texas Whiskey

Mesquite-smoked Texas Whiskey

Where there’s smoke, there’s … Ranger Creek Rimfire.
The San Antonio-based Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling, producers of handcrafted beer and bourbon, is set to release a single malt whiskey aimed deep in the heart of Texans: a mesquite-smoked hooch.

Called Ranger Creek Rimfire, the scotch-style whiskey is lightly smoked with mesquite sourced from a local farmer. Fewer than 500 cases of Rimfire were produced and will released throughout the state this month. Ranger Creek reps will be holding a tasting at Spec’s on Smith from 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday, March 29. The 375 ml bottle sells for $34.99.

Ranger Creek describes Rimfire as a smoky whiskey similar to Caol Ila. “Smoked whiskeys were popularized through products like Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Ardbeg from the Islay region of Scotland,” the company’s press release states. “Rimfire is their less intense Texas cousin. Instead of Scottish peat, Ranger Creek hand smokes their malt with Texas mesquite.”
The “brewstillery” also makes a smoked beer called Mesquite Smoked Porter.

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Downtown Macy’s to close on Saturday

Downtown Macy’s to close on Saturday

Officials with the Cincinnati-based retailer have confirmed the store will close March 9. Earlier this week, the retailer said that date was flexible and depended on the amount of merchandise remaining by this weekend.
The store has been holding a storewide close-out sale since announcing in January that it would be leaving downtown.

City boosters have been hopeful they could find another location for Macy’s, whose lease is about to expire. Mayor Annise Parker announced a downtown retail task force to research options for Macy’s and other retailers that may want a downtown presence.
The 791,000-square-foot building at 1110 Main has been around since 1947. Many Houstonians remember it as a Foley’s. Here’s its history.


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The new cuts of this Mexican steakhouse

The new cuts of this Mexican steakhouse

La Casa del Caballo is bringing 
a different vision for beef and 
south-of-the-border fare to the table.

Photo Gallery

La Casa del Caballo's


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sights of Azalea Trail

The beautiful sights of Azalea Trail

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The Woodlands CrawPHish Festival

The Woodlands CrawPHish Festival

Saturday, March 23, 2013, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

The Woodlands CrawPHish Festival was created to raise awareness for Pulmonary Hypertension, hence the “PH” in the name, and money to find a cure. The festival is hosted annually in Town Green Park for a day of family fun with live music, kids activities, authentic Louisiana crawfish, BBQ (for those that do not care for crawfish), networking and more. While we have continued to grow over the last few years, our one day festival brings in more than 3,000 people from all part of the country. In the past, people have traveled from Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Massachusetts, Maryland, Tennessee and numerous other states to attend the CrawPHish Festival. We look forward to growing the Festival in the years to come and raising money for such a worthy cause.

Cost: Tickets are available at $25 per person for ages 11 and up – to include one plate of food and two drink tickets (alcoholic or non-alcholic beverages available for those 21 and over); $15 for 10 and under – to include one plate of food and one drink ticket; entry for ages 4 and under are free. Pre-purchased tickets are strongly encouraged. Limited tickets will be available the day of the event at an increased cost.
 
Phone: (281) 367-2222
 
Event url: woodlandscrawfish.com/


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Houston Rodeo

2013 Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (Photo Gallery)

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Rodeo food

Wacky treats you may find at the Houston Rodeo

Photo Gallery

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Spring crawfish festival

`Duck Dynasty' star will be at Spring crawfish festival

It's guaranteed Morrissey won't be at this year's Texas Crawfish and Music Festival, and not just because a member of the "Duck Dynasty" crew will be there.

Crawfish fan Silas Merritt "Si" Robertson, AKA Uncle Si, from A&E's mega hit about the rags-to-riches Louisiana family behind duck call and decoy empire Duck Commander will be at the festival for a meet-and-greet on April 20. The festival stretches over two weekends (April 19-21 and 26-28) in historic Old Town Spring. Starting at 1 p.m., Uncle Si will "shaking hands, signing autographs and taking pictures at the `Texas Crawfish Festival Duck Blind.'"

Singer and animal rights activist Morrissey cancelled a Tuesday appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" because the cast of "Duck Dynasty" was scheduled for the same show. According to the Associated Press, Morrissey said Monday he can't perform on a show with what he called people who "amount to animal serial killers."

Acts that will be on hand to put the music in the Texas Crawfish and Music Festival are the Randy Rogers Band, Grupo Fantasma, Shakey Graves, Jack Ingram and the Toadies.
For more information and to purchase tickets, go to texascrawfishfestival.com.


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Summer Festival

Iggy, Postal Service and Japandroids among FPSF performers

The Free Press Summer Festival will celebrate its fifth anniversary this year with another lineup that includes festival-friendly acts, top indie-rock buzz bands, hip-hop and a few vintage rock acts
.
Among the top draws this year will be primal-rock pioneers Iggy and the Stooges and California punk vets Social Distortion, reunited electro-pop duo the Postal Service, soulful and gospel-tinged garage rock band Alabama Shakes, gypsy rock band Gogol Bordello and rap duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, whose inescapable "Thrift Shop" exploded late last year and remains a radio staple. The excellent Georgia metal band Baroness, who had to cancel their previous Houston visit because of a horrifying bus accident, also will perform; as will Cat Power, whose electro-soul album "Sun" was one of last year's most acclaimed recordings. The lineup also includes legendary Staple Singers singer Mavis Staples and popular modern-rock acts Grace Potter and the Nocturnals and Passion Pit.

The festival is again assembled and executed by the weekly Free Press Houston and local promoter Pegstar Concerts.

"We talk about every band that exists," says FPH publisher Omar Afra, who puts on the festival with his partner, Pegstar founder Jagi Katial. "If they're part of contemporary culture from 1960 to 2013, then they're part of our discussion.


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RodeoHouston review: Alan Jackson

Alan Jackson’s 21st RodeoHouston performance wasn’t much different from his 20th or 18th or 12th time on the revolving stage. But in his case, there’s something to be said about stability.

Jackson has built up an impressive country catalog, and it’s given him the luxury of crafting a set that hits highs, lows and everything in between. Even with the shortened timeframe, it felt like a fully fleshed out performance.
He kicked off, appropriately en
ough, with “Gone Country” and kept the feel-good vibe going with “Livin’ on Love” and “Little Bitty.” Jackson was cheerful and chatty between songs, and it kept things moving at a brisk pace. (His set was preceded by an impressive tribute for Armed Forces Appreciation Day.)

The songs were well-worn and familiar, but Jackson imbued them with a zippy energy. And 9/11 anthem “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning)” is still a powerful moment, no matter how many times he’s sung it.

“Y’all a nice crowd for Wednesday night,” he beamed. “The is all right.”


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Generation Park to bring more than 100,000 jobs

Generation Park to bring more than 100,000 jobs to Lake Houston area

Construction will soon begin on a new 3,924-acre master-planned commercial development in the Lake Houston area - called Generation Park.

"We expect people to be reporting to work there in the next 18 to 24 months," said Ryan McCord, president of McCord Development Inc., the developer of the property.

Construction will begin in the first and second quarter of this year, McCord said.

"It's going to turn some heads in terms of the level of activity coming to Generation Park," McCord said.

"In another five to 10 years, Generation Park will be accepted as one of Houston's main economic centers," McCord said. "Generation Park will be synonymous with quality and planning in the region. That's really our goal. We are very excited about it."

100,000 jobs

Upon completion of the entire development, McCord expects Generation Park to bring more than 100,000 jobs to the area.

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Performers at the Houston Rodeo

Feb. 25

Toby Keith
From: Clinton, Okla.
Plays: Solo Cup country (red)
Strengths: brawn; big voice; songs about drinking
Recommended if you like: your grandparents, only they prefer Merle Haggard
Try this song: "I Love This Bar"

Feb. 26

Gary Allan
From: La Mirada, Calif.
Plays: Neo-traditional country with a bit of rock and a bit of Bakersfield
Strengths: tattoos; gut-wrenching, slow-burning slow songs about anguish
Recommended if you like: an excuse to drink to good songs about feeling bad
Try this song: "Songs About Rain"

Feb. 27

Alan Jackson
From: Newman, Ga.
Plays: understated neo-trad country
Strengths: perma-stache; jukebox-ready songs; can summon the mullet
Recommended if you like: George Strait
Try this song: "Drive"
Feb. 28

Zac Brown Band
From: Atlanta
Plays: Southern rock/country with international jam-band inclinations
Strengths: skullcaps; expansive definition of "country"
Recommended if you like: Jimmy Buffett & Kenny Chesney & fried food
Try this song: "Chicken Fried"


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Restaurant Openings

Il Mondo Della Pizza has opened in the the Memorial Villages area. An open kitchen snakes along side the spare dining room. The menu features a handful of pizzas, as well pastas, steaks and seafood.
7591 Katy Freeway, 713-680-9847

Sweet Boutique Bakery has opened a second location at Cinco Ranch in Katy. The bakery specializes in custom cakes, macaroons and cake pops.
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd., 281-394-5776

Snap Kitchen has opened a grab-and-go micro store downtown in the tunnel of One Allen Center. The health-focused kitchen offers seasonal fare using local, organic ingredients.
500 Dallas, 713-659-6700

Smallcakes, a franchise bakery chain founded in Kansas, has opened its first Houston store. The bakery offers more than 80 flavor combinations for its custom cakes, cupcakes and whoopie pies.
12149 FM 1960 W., 281-671-0104

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. has moved into the space on the Kemah Boardwalk formerly occupied by Joe’s Crab Shack. The restaurant offers 19 preparations of shrimp.
215 Kipp in Kemah, 281-334-2881

Jersey Mike’s Subs, which is known for its grilled submarine sandwiches, has opened its sixth Houston-area location at 4765 FM 1960 W. Call 832-286-1364.

Zoës Kitchen continues to expand in Houston. The restaurant chain, which specializes in fresh, healthy fare, has opened a new store in the Rice Village. It also will open a spot in Vintage Park next month.
5215 Kelvin, 713-528-2464

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Dish of the week: Brisket flautas

 Dish of the week: Brisket flautas

Brisket flautas at El Tiempo Cantina on Navigation (shrimp a la carte)

It had to happen. The way Houstonians mix and match elements of our disparate cooking styles, sooner or later somebody was going to put shredded and chile-peppered brisket inside a flauta. And it's a genius idea, as I discovered when I visited the new El Tiempo on Navigation Blvd. last week.

I was eager to check out the venue in which the Laurenzo family will be throwing down right next door to Ninfa's on Navigation, the restaurant where matriarch Ninfa Laurenzo launched the tacos al carbon (and eventually fajitas) craze, starting back in the 1970s. The Laurenzos sold their interest in Ninfa's long ago, but now they're back in the neighborhood with a vast palace of tile and stucco and papel picado, studded with huge, muscular horse sculptures and bright traceries of aqua wrought iron.

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New Houston-area theme park

New Houston-area theme park under development

Developers hope an empty, heavily wooded plot of land in New Caney will transform into a thriving entertainment district by 2015- complete with a theme park, water park and a new dining and music scene and more elaborate attractions.

Construction will begin on the Grand Texas Theme Park in October to be ready for a grand opening in March 2015 if all goes according to plan, said Monty Galland, a pre-development manager for the project.

Developers and officials in Montgomery County will close by the end of April on land on State Highway 242 and U.S. Highway 59, about 15 miles from the Woodlands and 10 miles north of Kingwood.

The cost of the water park, theme park, amphitheater and paintball arena, which will be supported by Galland's group, will cost $119 million. The other developments, which include restaurant and hotel areas, will add $95 million to the overall cost. The project was discussed at a Feb. 14 board meeting of the East Montgomery County Improvement District. Developers project first year attendance to be around 665,000 to eventually reach about 1.8 million after several years.

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Barbecue championship

Barbecue championship starts coming to Reliant Park

More than 300 cooking teams will compete in the World Championship Bar-B-Cue Contest beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday at Reliant Park and running through Saturday, when the winners will be announced at 7 p.m.

More than a dozen titles will be awarded, including championship brisket, most colorful team and most unique pit. Back to defend their 2012 titles will be the Road Dog Cookers (ribs) and the Swine-O's (Dutch-oven dessert).

New this year to the cook-off is Brewfest.

Located in the Rockin' Bar-B-Que Saloon, Brewfest features six stations offering a selection of craft beers. Brewery representatives will be on hand to talk about their beers. Fans of the grape can find their beverage of choice at the adjacent Champion Wine Garden.

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Corkscrew BBQ

Corkscrew BBQ a new Houston classic

The smoked turkey and the cobbler were already gone when I lined up outside the Corkscrew BBQ trailer at a quarter past noon on a recent Saturday. Said items were inscribed, with hot-pink marker, on the dreaded "Sold out" whiteboard propped against the order window.

Two dozen other hopefuls were in front of me, and the queue simmered with anticipation sharpened by a jittery dash of anxiety. Houstonians of every flavor swapped barbecue intelligence and debated about what they were going to order. ("Get the brisket," I told anyone who'd listen.) They even discussed the finer points of cobbler, notwithstanding the fact that they wouldn't get any today.

They craned their necks and stood on tiptoe to see what new items had appeared on the "Sold out" sign. When "sausage" went on the sign at precisely 12:53 p.m., a muffled groan was heard. A burly fellow who discovered that they were out of baked potatoes - he'd wanted the pulled-pork number with pico de gallo and poblano ranch dressing for his mom - silently mouthed a mild epithet, turning aside as he did so in deference to Corkscrew's tongue-in-cheek reminder: "We sell out every day! Please, no whining."

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Corkscrew BBQ
★ ★
24930 Budde, Spring, 832-592-1184
Hours: L: Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m. until sold out
Credit cards: all major
Prices: Sandwiches $5.50-$9.95; plates $8.25-$13.75; sides and desserts $2-$2.25
Must-orders: Brisket, rib plate, Bobert sandwich, pulled pork or brisket tacos, mac and cheese, cobbler
Reservations: first-come, first-served at outdoor picnic tables
Noise level: moderate
Website: corkscrewbbq.com



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Bayou City History

Bayou City History

 

Missouri-Kansas-Texas passenger depot behind the Merchants and Manufacturers Building, May 1949. (Chronicle file)

 

You’re looking at the old Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad passenger depot located behind the Merchants and Manufacturers Building (now UH Downtown). Specifically it was at Girard and North Main.
According to the Houston Chronicle, the structure was built in 1914 for $165,000 ($3.6 million today). Thousands would pass through the station (though not through the same entrance) until the Katy discontinued passenger service in Houston in November 1957. The railroad demolished the building in December 1958.
The Katy line ran somewhat northwest from the station along White Oak Bayou before crossing into the First Ward. Today, the train tracks are gone, but you can follow it on bike or foot into downtown. Right now, the path ends right where the old MKT station used to be. Think about that next time you pedal into the city.



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