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Showing posts from April, 2021

Prepare for weekend closures on 610 Loop and Southwest Freeway

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Along with a potential downpour, Houston drivers heading to the Loop will have to contend with lane closures along 610, the Texas Department of Transportation announced. As usual, police officers will be on hand to assist. Motorists should expect delays and are encouraged to seek alternate routes. Full closure information can be found at http://www.houstontranstar.org and at http://www.hou610at69.com . Locals can also follow construction updates on Twitter @HOU610at69. Here is a breakdown of the lane closures:… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/333zf4J from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eEmYsU

Dystopia meets dysfunction in The Mitchells vs. the Machines

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There are few filmmakers working today who are more versatile than Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. Together, the duo has written, directed, or produced some of the most inventive and funniest films of the last decade or so, including the Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs series, the 21 Jump Street series, The Lego Movie series, and Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse. Their latest film, this time as producers, is The Mitchells vs. The Machines, an… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3u9Inki from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eNwQ3o

Epic San Diego wing restaurant flies into Houston with new locations

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A popular San Diego wing joint’s expansion plans include Houston and Dallas. Epic Wings signed a 39 store franchise agreement that will fuel the restaurant’s growth in Los Angeles County, Las Vegas, and the Lone Star State. Founded in 1982 as Wings ‘N Things, Epic Wings describes itself as the first restaurant to bring Buffalo wings to the West Coast. In addition to wings, the restaurant serves chicken strips, pizza sticks, and fries. As part… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3vsbcbG from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eF9cWW

Travis Scott unleashes wildly anticipated AstroWorld Festival dates

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It’s official: Travis Scott will be back to take his fans to the amusement park. To toast his 29th birthday, Scott announced on April 30 that his Astroworld Festival will return this fall at NRG Park. The third-annual music festival is expanding to two days this year — Friday, November 5 and Saturday, November 6 — due to overwhelming demand as well as rave reviews around the festival’s curated lineup, personally selected by the multi-platinum-selling… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2RijB2Y from WordPress https://ift.tt/330vkFM

17 Houston restaurants serving up last-minute Mother’s Day dining

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Houstonians are really excited about celebrating Mother’s Day at Houston restaurants. Searching for reservations at popular options reveals that many places are either fully booked or so close to it that adding them to this guide would only be frustrating for readers. As of Friday, April 30, the restaurants listed below still have tables, but they’re probably going quickly. Act fast (or pick somewhere close to home that isn’t listed). This list also includes a… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3t5EF9V from WordPress https://ift.tt/3gSCm7y

New true crime podcast with CultureMap ties dives into baffling case

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If you’ve got a true crime addiction (and don’t we all?), here’s another podcast to add to your list. Final Days on Earth comes from investigative journalist Claire St. Amant, a development producer for CBS News who just happens to be a former CultureMap Dallas editor. St. Amant has produced over 20 episodes of the true-crime television show 48 Hours since she joined CBS News in 2014, along with a handful of stories for 60… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3gRgDNj from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eHYsHi

Southwest jets to Central American paradise with $129 Houston flights

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Houstonians are ready and scrambling to travel, as evidenced by new flights popping up in response to local demand. To that end, a Texas-based airline is connecting locals to a Central American coastal paradise with nonstop service. Southwest Airlines is resuming direct flights to Costa Rica, beginning June 21, according to the Dallas-based airline. Specifically, the jaunts will head to Liberia, Guanacaste (LIR), and the capital region, San Jose (SJO). As usual, bags fly free,… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3e3Wv95 from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eIhmxF

New app aids Houstonians in finding closest COVID vaccine sites

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A global tech company that recently opened a local office in Houston has announced a major upgrade to its app — and it’s now available in Houston. ClassPass, a network of fitness and wellness partners, now has Houston vaccine centers searchable within the app and website. Members can find their closest vaccine center and get important information — like hours and address — as well as how to contact the locations; however, users aren’t able… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3xKQJ4b from WordPress https://ift.tt/3vBAwML

Former Texans superstar J.J. Watt makes the day for one lucky kid

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When local hero Justin James (we know him as J.J.) Watt announced his heartbreaking goodbye to Houston in February, he noted that he considers the Houston area “family,” adding “…you guys have given me everything and more and I can only hope you feel like I’ve given you everything I have.” Now, the former Texans and current Arizona Cardinal is showing more love to the Gulf Coast in a Make-A-Wish event. Watt will celebrate World… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3gOjnes from WordPress https://ift.tt/3gQbvZO

Houston rap legend Bun B and music group host new COVID vaccine drive

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Houstonians who’ve been jonesing for live music and entertainment but have yet to get out due to lack of COVID inoculations are now in luck. The Houston Music Foundation will team with legendary local rap icon Bun B, Houston Methodist, and The Heights Theater to host a vaccine drive on May 5, 2021, and June 2. Vaccinations will be administered at The Heights Theater (339 W 19th St.) and are open to the entire Harris… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3xC5iXq from WordPress https://ift.tt/3e3y3Vn

Mayor Turner and chief Troy Finner announce sweeping reforms to HPD

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With deaths from violent crimes seemingly happening every other day in the city, Houston leaders revealed how they’re putting into place recommendations made by a task force formed in the wake of 2020’s unrest after George Floyd’s death. On Thursday, April 29, Mayor Sylvester Turner and Chief Troy Finner outlined the steps their implementing to reform the police department going forward, especially when it comes to accountability of the city’s law enforcement. Here are some… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2S5ZLIm from WordPress https://ift.tt/3t4iQrl

Junior League of Houston toasts unprecedented year with virtual gala

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A beloved and longtime local women’s institution is celebrating a milestone with a reimagined party for members and the public. The Junior League of Houston will host its annual charity ball — now in its 73rd year — at 7 pm Saturday May 1. Dubbed “Illuminate,” his year’s virtual soiree features a celebration video highlighting the Junior League’s service in the community, the League’s annual member performance, and a big board and silent auction, a… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3aRGq4f from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eFobAi

A Wash Ave favorite’s dazzling Derby Day return, plus top Thai in town

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On this week’s episode of “What’s Eric Eating,” Alba Huerta joins CultureMap food editor Eric Sandler to discuss Julep. The acclaimed, Southern-inspired bar will reopen with a Kentucky Derby party on Saturday, May 1. Huerta launched a number of initiatives during the last year to help Julep survive the pandemic, including a truck that delivered cocktails around Houston. Julep will continue to operate the truck, and it has also launched a pop-up retail shop that… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3eLrpCp from WordPress https://ift.tt/3gJGJSy

Outdoor adventure awaits at this dreamy lakeside community in Cypress

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Ready to dive into incredible lakeside living in Houston? Then come explore Towne Lake, where custom homes from the city’s premier builders are set on the largest private recreational lake in Houston, all mere minutes from the area’s best shopping, dining, entertainment, and offices. Expect one-of-a-kind living at this award-winning residential community from Caldwell Communities, with everything from amazing amenities to highly rated onsite schools — there’s even an onsite lifestyle director. Homes are priced… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3vrCNde from WordPress https://ift.tt/3voXxSI

Texas legislature approves bill making alcohol to-go permanent

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Texas restaurants will be able to sell beer, wine, and cocktails to-go forever. With a vote of 30-1, the Texas Senate approved HB 1024, which codifies Texas Gov. Greg Abbott’s emergency waiver that allowed restaurant to sell beer, wine, and cocktails with pickup and delivery food orders. Since June 2020, restaurants have been allowed to sell alcoholic beverages provided they complied with certain packaging requirements. Being able to sell alcohol to-go became an important source… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3t4Ycak from WordPress https://ift.tt/2S3Bgvp

Tilman Fertitta’s luxury car dealership rolls in prestigious award

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Not long after making headlines with cryptocurrency buzz, Tilman Fertitta’s luxe auto dealership is in the spotlight. His Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Houston — the Gulf Coast’s largest authorized Rolls-Royce dealership — has been recognized at the virtual Rolls-Royce World Dealer Conference as Rolls-Royce’s 2020 Dealer of the Year for the Americas “For an award that usually goes to Miami, Los Angeles, or New York, this proves Houston’s luxury market demands attention,” Fertitta, CEO of Fertitta… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/32YXCAr from WordPress https://ift.tt/3gNnxmQ

Here are the top 10 things to do in Houston this weekend

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Have you ever wanted to take part in a walk or run, but you didn’t really want to, well, walk or run? The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo will start up its virtual, 34th annual Rodeo Run on Saturday, which will go until Sunday, May 9. In addition to the traditional 5K or 10K walk, run or wheelchair race, there are also two new race categories, bonus challenges and opportunities to win special prizes. As… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3nu9cx4 from WordPress https://ift.tt/3tZ7Ht4

Rockin’ LA-based ramen restaurant heats up Heights development

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A LA-based ramen shop will begin ladling its vegan broths next week. Rakkan Ramen will open on May 3 in the M-K-T Heights mixed-use development (600 N Shepherd Dr.). To celebrate its Texas debut, the restaurant will give away 100 ramen meals on a first-come-first-served basis: 50 at 11 am and 50 more at 6 pm. Diners may also enter drawings on Instagram and Facebook for $25 gift cards and an iPad; register between April… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2QCI7LW from WordPress https://ift.tt/3t1DsQT

Pioneering Apollo 11 astronaut Michael Collins passes away at 90

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A pivotal figure of the legendary Apollo 11 moon landing has died. Michael Collins, the Apollo 11 command pilot who orbited the moon so that astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Armstrong could famously walk the lunar surface in July 1969, passed away at 90, his family confirmed on social media. The calm, even-keeled, and razor-sharp former Houstonian lost his fight to cancer, per his family, who released this statement. > We regret to share that… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2S35YEW from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eHSgPF

Michael B. Jordan launches a new franchise with Without Remorse

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In the modern media world where IP — intellectual property — is king, one can never be surprised when characters or whole movies are revived for a new generation. The worlds Tom Clancy brought to life in his books have led to five different people playing his most iconic character, Jack Ryan, most recently in the ongoing Jack Ryan series on Amazon Prime Video. So it’s not a shocker that another Clancy property is showing… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3nG8GfD from WordPress https://ift.tt/32XIweE

Volunteer to help cute baby animals this spring with Houston SPCA

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It’s kitten season, y’all. As adorable as that sounds, it also means that scores of abandoned babies need ’round-the-clock care, and Houston SPCA is ready to provide it. Each spring, the nonprofit opens a life-saving neonatal baby animal nursery where staff and volunteers hand-feed these tiny, orphaned animals every two hours until they are old enough to be prepared for adoption. For kittens, that means weighing at least two pounds, and for puppies it’s at… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3sYUyPp from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eCg5Zc

United boosts travel to buzzy Mexican state with new nonstop flights

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With Houstonians (understandably) wanting to get away, a major Mexican region has opened more aggressively for tourists and just in time, United Airlines is hopping aboard with increased direct flights. United will launch new, nonstop flights to the Mexican state/peninsula of Yucatan, specifically Houston to Merida on May 7. Service is scheduled to increase to two daily flights from June 3 to September 7, with one departure at 8:15 am and a second at 3:05… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3aMib7C from WordPress https://ift.tt/2Rbm3s0

3 must-try brunch recipes to wow Mom this Mother’s Day

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It can be hard to find the perfect gift for the Mom in your life, so this year why not keep it simple and stick with a classic? Homemade brunch. Serve it in bed, al fresco, or with her finest china — any way you spin it, she’s sure to love it. If your mom loves to cook, Pioneer has a chance for her to win big. From now until May 5, you can enter… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3aORsaC from WordPress https://ift.tt/3aPfq5k

These are Houston’s 4 best high schools, says U.S. News & World Report

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It’s report card time, and four Houston high schools have made the grade, earning top 100 spots in this year’s prestigious U.S. News & World Report rankings of the Best U.S. High Schools. One even merited a special distinction. Houston’s Carnegie Vanguard High School ranked highest on the list at No. 42. The school is ranked fifth within Texas. The Advanced Placement coursework participation rate there is 100 percent; total minority enrollment is 77 percent,… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3vEGQmL from WordPress https://ift.tt/3dYgdmp

Refined new Michelin-starred French restaurant blooms in MFAH

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A fine dining restaurant with a Michelin star pedigree arrives in Houston next month. Le Jardinier will open May 18 inside the Kinder Building at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, the restaurant announced. French for “the gardener,” Le Jardinier comes to Houston via Miami and New York, where it holds one Michelin star. The restaurant defines itself as “a refined, vegetable-forward concept rooted in French culinary technique and inspired by the seasonality of ingredients.”… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3t0hePo from WordPress https://ift.tt/3xyDPFY

Biden administration nominates Harris County sheriff to lead ICE

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Harris County’s top cop is headed to Washington D.C. The Biden administration announced that it will nominate Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez to serve as the head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Gonzalez was elected Harris County Sheriff in 2016 and reelected in 2020. With 5,000 employees, Harris County has the largest sheriff’s department in Texas and the third largest nationally. Prior to being elected sheriff, Gonzalez spent 18 years with the Houston… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3xvPLbO from WordPress https://ift.tt/3vpTxRY

Houstonians can rappel down a Post Oak hotel for a worthy local cause

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Calling all civic-minded, philanthropic, and thrill-seeking Houstonians: a local charity needs the adventurous and charitable to scale a building — for a good cause, of course. Turning the typical fundraising luncheon, gala, or virtual event on its ear, The Women’s Home is opting to send locals “Over the Edge” to raise funds for its mission to help area women in pivotal life assistance. Those ready to live out their SEAL Team fantasies can descend on… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3gPcHwR from WordPress https://ift.tt/2PtPl4z

Oprah Winfrey makes a virtual visit to Houston for powerful new book

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While Oprah Winfrey is busy mailing $15,000 checks to strangers during the pandemic and — to the chagrin of many — not running for president, she has somehow found time to pen a book in between her myriad activities and running her global empire. The queen of all media will discuss her new tome, What Happened to You?: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing at a virtual event at 6 pm Monday, March 3 in… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3gHZ1DC from WordPress https://ift.tt/3tZDeem

Texas explodes with 16 percent surge in population, census data shows

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Texas’ population swelled so much from 2010 to 2020 that it essentially swallowed a state the size of — gasp! — Oklahoma. Figures released April 26 by the U.S. Census Bureau show Texas gained 3,999,944 residents from April 2010 to April 2020. By comparison, the entire population of Oklahoma totaled 3,959,353 in April 2020. Those nearly 4 million new residents brought Texas’ population to 29,145,505 as of April 2020. Buoyed by a spike in the… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3nowHaO from WordPress https://ift.tt/3aEJnoP

4 new and now ideas for the modern kitchen of your dreams

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There’s an old adage in real estate that “kitchens sell homes,” but having a beautiful heart of the home is just as important even if you’re not planning on selling anytime soon. Renovating your kitchen is one of the best (and biggest) investments you can make, and it pays to work with a team you can trust. That’s where Brixos comes in. They only work with vetted professional contractors to ensure every job is finished… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2PsNHQx from WordPress https://ift.tt/3dTMv1Y

Inventive and upscale Texas taco restaurant opens in Rice Village

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Houston’s fifth Velvet Taco has debuted in Rice Village. Located in the former Buffalo Wild Wings at 2525 Rice Blvd., the new restaurant opened its doors to the public on Monday, April 26. The Dallas-based taco chain’s newest outpost occupies approximately 3,400 square feet; it seats 90 inside with room for 20 more people on a covered patio. A walk-up taco window caters to area shoppers and residents who want to grab-and-go. Inside, look for… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2QYgSeK from WordPress https://ift.tt/3dSrLrr

Houston nonprofit’s early learning programs shape the city’s future

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To ensure the continued success of the Houston region, every child in the community must have the opportunity to learn in a safe and nurturing environment. Today’s babies are the workforce of the future. Every child, every day, absorbs lessons from its parents and caregivers. In fact, a child’s brain architecture — constructed of thousands and thousands of neurons — grows and connects rapidly during the first five years of life. To fill these little… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3xwpMAP from WordPress https://ift.tt/3vn6vQv

The fashionable Houstonian’s guide to 10 hot Kentucky Derby parties

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When it comes to Kentucky Derby style, the ultra-stylish Tootsies creative director, Fady Armanious, says it best: “The bigger the hat, the better.” Once again, it’s time for little bit of sass, a lot of style, and, of course, two minutes of thrilling horse racing. Houstonians will be donning their best Southern genteel garb and elaborate, decorative hats — or fascinators — for the annual horse race and event held Saturday in May 1 at… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2S6VhBs from WordPress https://ift.tt/3ezvGZs

Houston home sales rocket to record-breaking pace in ‘buying bonanza’

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In news that comes as no shock to anyone watching local real estate, the Houston market is scorching, with a shortage of available homes priced at $250,000 and below and the area again seeing record sales. Sales of single-family homes leaped 24.4 percent in March, with 9,347 units sold versus 7,511 a year earlier, according to the latest Houston Association of Realtors (HAR) Market Update. For those keeping track, that marks the tenth straight positive… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3gIZK7M from WordPress https://ift.tt/3ez4dqT

Food Network superstar Guy Fieri dives into Houston for surprise visit

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The Mayor of Flavortown has made a surprise appearance in the Bayou City. Superstar chef and TV personality Guy Fieri has been in Houston over the weekend filming at local restaurants for potential inclusion in upcoming episodes of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives — and serving a four-star birthday dinner to a major TV star. Both a Food Network representative and a member of the production team confirmed Fieri’s presence in the city. However, the Food… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3aItgXf from WordPress https://ift.tt/3npXpj3

Adopt a furry forever friend with these 10 Houston animal groups

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As animal lovers know, spring is a time for renewal and regrowth — and furbabies. Sadly, that means thousands of new stray kittens and puppies on busy, dangerous, and desolate Houston streets. That means animal shelters will be especially paced. Best Friends Animal Society estimates more than 40,000 animals enter shelters throughout the Greater Houston area each year– or, simply put, enough to fill Minute Maid Stadium. Worse, Texas is nationally ranked second to California… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3er4GLq from WordPress https://ift.tt/3vj184Q

2 luxurious Texas properties check in among world’s best new hotels

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Two lauded Texas hotels located just up the road are getting some international recognition from one of the most-read travel publications in the world. Travel + Leisure, which reaches an audience of more than 30 million globetrotters, has released its 16th annual list of the world’s best new hotels of the year, with two Austin establishments — the only Texas properties noted — among the list’s North American callouts. Austin’s Commodore Perry Estate, the 10-acre… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3gGOXuO from WordPress https://ift.tt/32NoN1d

Talented chef from Chris Shepherd’s crew joins iconic Midtown eatery

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One of Houston’s iconic restaurants has a new chef. Brennan’s of Houston announced that it has hired Matt Staph as executive chef. Staph comes to Brennan’s from Underbelly Hospitality’s restaurant One Fifth; he opened the restaurant under the direction of chef Nick Fine and served as chef de cuisine for four of its five iterations. He replaces Joey Chavez, who came to Brennan’s in the summer of 2020. Brennan’s of Houston has served elevated Creole… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3nrWejd from WordPress https://ift.tt/3xqdI4b

Ken Hoffman reveals his secret for protecting precious garden tomatoes

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I have been growing tomatoes in my backyard for at least 20 years. Sunday, April 25, for the first time, I got to eat one of them. Actually, two tomatoes survived to make it to my kitchen, where I made the most underrated sandwich of all-time: sliced tomatoes and Swiss cheese with Miracle Whip on toast. Over the decades, my attempts at growing tomatoes have died prematurely due for various, usually self-inflicted, reasons: insecticides, the… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/32RJFnO from WordPress https://ift.tt/2RWXYFu

Brides will swoon for sparkly rings from female-founded jewelry line

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Spring — and love — is in the air. If finding the perfect engagement ring is on your horizon (or maybe upgrading the one you already have), consider LovBe lab-grown diamonds. In addition to their ethical and environmental benefits, LovBe has a few dazzling attributes special only to them: Twice the carat weight of a mined diamond for the same price. Talk about more for your money! Superior color and brilliance. Not all diamonds are… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3tUDQlD from WordPress https://ift.tt/2RUGaL9

Zillow reveals how fast home values are rising in Houston market

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The spring selling season is underway, and those looking to purchase a home in Houston should expect to pay a premium — regardless of price point — Zillow says. A new study from the real estate authority shows that the annual appreciation of Houston-area home values at all price tiers was at least 7 percent in February 2021, with the most affordable tier growing at an even faster rate. The lowest tier of home values… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2PoUpHn from WordPress https://ift.tt/3nlCihU

Houston’s top cop faces the nation in first big network TV appearance

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Masterful, meditative, and measured, Houston’s new police chief Troy Finner arguably stole the show on an April 24 appearance on CBS’s Face the Nation. Appearing among a distinguished assortment of city and national leaders in law enforcement and political advocacy groups, Finner spoke about his plans for the Houston Police Department’s future. (Watch the full video here.) Reacting to the recent Derek Chauvin verdict, Finner remarked to host John Dickerson that it was proof that… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3tSGGrn from WordPress https://ift.tt/3sTosVk

Former Texans star’s Memorial mansion powers Houston’s top stories

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Editor’s note: It’s time to recap the top stories on CultureMap from this past week. 1\. Former Houston Texans star tosses his Memorial mansion onto market for $8.45 million. The 13,000-square foot home features five bedrooms, five bathrooms, dramatic staircases, floor-to-ceiling windows and more. 2\. New Heights poolside bar and restaurant cowboys up with tropical sips and island eats. Chef Lyle Bento’s menu is inspired by his Hawaiian childhood. 3\. Houston’s famed 5-star downtown hotel… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3xkfbsP from WordPress https://ift.tt/3veK6ou

Houston’s hottest United flight search is to this cool city

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Houstonians looking to escape the summer heat will soon have an easier path to Alaska. United Airlines announced that it will resume non-stop service between George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport beginning in June. The route is part of United’s response to increased consumer demand. Overall, the airline will operate 67 percent of its domestic schedule and 60 percent of its overall network schedule compared to June 2019. “As leisure travel… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3sV9P3X from WordPress https://ift.tt/3gAOFFq

Fashionable crowd packs haute French bookstore’s grand opening in ROD

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What: Assouline grand opening Where: River Oaks District The scoop: A fab and quite fashionable crowd packed (what pandemic?) the haute new French bookstore, Assouline, in the River Oaks District to toast the literary boutique/gift shop’s grand opening. Guests pursued the offerings, including its walls of Special Edition and Ultimate Books, and its whimsical decor, highlighted by a playful neon sign that reads; “Travel From Home.” Apropos for the reception’s eclectic and stylish theme, attendees… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3dNV26N from WordPress https://ift.tt/3eqb1qx

Bloody & brutal Mortal Kombat gets back to video game basics

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When the original Mortal Kombat film came out in 1995, it was among the first wave of movies based on video games, coming just three years after the game itself debuted in arcades in 1992. Like virtually every other video game adaptation since, it was much derided for its laughable plot, dialogue, and, most importantly, action. Twenty-six years later, not much has changed in the reboot of the franchise except one key thing that lines… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3sLqhng from WordPress https://ift.tt/3sQbgjU

Where to eat in Houston: 10 exciting new spots for dining out again

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Driving around Houston brings one to an unmistakable conclusion. Houstonians are ready to be out and about. Fortunately, a number of new restaurants have opened to accommodate those impulses. The list below covers just some of the establishments that have opened since December, along with two very exciting pop-ups. No, this article isn’t remotely comprehensive; consider it a starting for those looking to try something new. As always, these are roughly ordered by the priority… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3gAeSnJ from WordPress https://ift.tt/3viCJw7

Save on crucial emergency items during the Texas tax break weekend

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The scourge of Winter Storm Uri is a brutal reminder for Houstonians to be prepared for the most extreme weather — and subsequent power outages. (Houston, as CultureMap reported, bore the worst of the storm.) To that end, a major tax break will help locals do just that. Those who purchase emergency supplies can enjoy no sales tax on those items, per the Texas Comptroller’s Office. The sales tax exemptions run from 12:01 am Saturday,… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3nk0y3Z from WordPress https://ift.tt/3dLxM9u

Society for the Performing arts showcases A-list stars in new season

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Save restaurants and hospitality, few industries have been as hard hit during the global pandemic as performing arts. But a new season revealed by a beloved local arts purveyor suggests that Houston’s performances are finally returning — in a big way. Society for the Performing Arts released its 2021-2022 season, one full of familiar celebrities, big literary names, and cutting-edge artists. Some of the appearances are returns of rescheduled shows from the COVID-affected 2019-2020, while… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/2RYHpsV from WordPress https://ift.tt/32IAqXe

Houston named a top spot for renters from other Texas cities

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Surprising to no one who has leased an apartment recently, Houston is a hot rental market. Now, a new study backs that up — revealing that the Bayou City is among the biggest relocation spots for renters in the country. A new study released by self-storage platform StorageCafe finds that Houston ranks fifth among the country’s top attractors of all renters in 2020. Almost 70 percent of Houston renters came from other places in Texas,… from News Feed – CultureMap Houston https://ift.tt/3dLeO2F from WordPress https://ift.tt/3veSG6J