The Local September/October 2015

Bolivar Peninsula's Community Magazine SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 • COMPLIMENTARY

Fall BEACH ACCESS Bolivar Peninsula’s Best Kept Secret JANE LONG FESTIVAL

FISHING THE FLOUNDER RUN

COOLER DAYS AHEAD

fall for a cause YOUR CHANCE

TO MAKE A CHANGE ON THE PENINSULA

•

• • • •

FULL SERVICE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, VACATION RENTALS & REAL ESTATE SALES LOCATED IN THE CRYSTAL BEACH PLAZA SUPERIOR IN-HOME MAINTENANCE & CLEANING COMPLIMENTARY PROPERTY EVALUATION

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CUSTOM HOME BUILDER • • • •

STATE OF THE ART 3D CAD DESIGN SERVICES COMPLETE TURN-KEY PRICING 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE SUPERIOR QUALITY & PROFESSIONALISM

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CONTENTS SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015

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14

WAY OFF BROADWAY PLAYERS PERFORM PIRATES & PETTICOATS ONE LAST TIME

IN EVERY ISSUE editor’s note 3 beach vibes 9 by the sea 10

20 A WALK THROUGH TIME Written by one of Bolivar's own, a new book chronicles the history and timeless photography of our beloved peninsula

local business 14 events 24 directory 25 sea & be seen 26

22 ALL PAWS ON DECK Helping our area's pets and their owners, a local community outreach assists with spay and neuter services

theLOCAL Bolivar Peninsula’s Community Magazine EDITOR Destiny Martin CONTRIBUTORS Dr. Melanie Wallace PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Arcadia Publishing, Cody Bess Photography, Ed Snyder/Outdoors, Phil Charlton, Spay and Neuter Beach Outreach, Sankenbruck

For advertising inquiries, call 817-505-8208 or email info@thebolivarlocal.com The LOCAL, Bolivar Peninsula’s Community Magazine is produced by 650 Media Group. All rights reserved. The LOCAL is not responsible for facts presented by authors and advertisers. No part of this publication may be used or reproduced without written consent of the editor.

September/October 2015

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COBB

HOME BUILDERS

THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR EXPERIENCE.

Building exceptional homes on Bolivar Peninsula since 1972.

NEW CONSTRUCTION • REMODELING • PROJECT MANAGEMENT CONTACT TYLER COCO AT 409.651.6004

editor’s note

Dear friends and readers, With the summer coming to a close, you’d probably think that things at the beach are about to slow down. At this time of year there may be more birds than people scouring the shoreline, but there definitely isn’t a shortage of activity on the peninsula in the fall. Cooler weather incites opportunities to get outdoors and experience some of Bolivar’s best-kept secrets.

FISHING FEVER Local waters are cooling down, and that means flounder fishing is heating up. September through November can be rewarding months for Texas anglers because adult flatfish are migrating to the Gulf of Mexico to spawn. For five tips to catch more flounder this season, see page 12.

JANE LONG FESTIVAL The Bolivar Peninsula Cultural Foundation hosts the Jane Long Festival in an effort to aid in recovery from the devastation of Hurricane Ike. Held every second Saturday in October, the annual event pays homage to Jane Long, the Mother of Texas. Festival attractions include tours of historic Fort Travis, a live performance from the Way Off Broadway Players (page 10), food and craft vendors, and much more!

FALL FOR A CAUSE The quality of our community is reflected by the efforts of those who get involved. This autumn, there are countless opportunities to make a local impact. Help clean our coastline on September 26 at the Adopt-A-Beach organized fall clean-up. Or support area youth by participating in the Bolivar Peninsula Lions Club Stingaree Saltwater Slam and the Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, fundraising events that benefit local scholarship funds. For more information about these and other activities, see the complete schedule of events on page 24. Plus, learn about a new outreach that benefits our area’s pets and their owners (page 22).

Until next time,

September/October 2015

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Come Join Me Living the Dream in Crystal Beach

theLOCAL Bolivar Peninsula's Community Magazine

WISH YOU WERE HERE. At The Local, we value small business and big ideas. We appreciate the past, yet we embrace the future. Whether you're an established business or just getting started, let us help you realize your advertising potential.

LUZ LUZ GRAY GRAY 409-457-6280 409-457-6280 As seen On HGTV Beach Front Bargain Hunt Beach Homes for all Budgets Land for Sale Rental Properties for Sale Free Sunsets

! n e r a K t e e m “Good Tidings!”

Karen has embraced Crystal Beach for over forty years, finding soul soothing inspiration walking in the sand and surf. Each walk whispers of creative possibilities. She collects shells and shark teeth but it’s the unique form and texture of beach glass and driftwood that truly tickles her imagination.

Searching from the tide line to the dunes, Karen picks up glass that has been tumbled smooth by the sand and surf. She will supply earring loops, wire, assorted beads and small shells, extra pieces of glass and the tools to help you turn your beach glass into a unique piece of jewelry.

If your group prefers a driftwood search, she’ll help you discover the creative possibilities of your find. The piece may speak for itself or become a sign, a colorful piece of yard art, or perhaps part of a hanging treasure.

She will bring paints and brushes, a drill, a hot glue gun, and previous found pieces of driftwood and assorted beach treasures to incorporate into your original piece of driftwood art.

Creativity has always been a driving force in Karen’s life from directing arts and crafts at summer camp, to funky furniture painting, to drawing and writing. Be prepared to use your imagination and have fun because one never knows what the next tide will bring in!

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

817.505.8208

info@thebolivarlocal.com 4 |

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September/October 2015

To check availability and schedule a private group workshop with any of our artists, contact:

Debbie Borel Ploeger

409-790-3624 dploeger@gt.rr.com

CHARLES MICHAEL CUSTOM HOMES 2950 Highway 87 Crystal Beach, TX 77650

409-684-1001

Full Service Home Builder Your Lot or Ours Financing Options Available Custom Home Design Top Quality Construction Features to Fit Your Budget Over 40 Years Experience

Contact Us Today About Your New Home

BUILDING FOR GENERATIONS

www.CharlesMichaelHome.com 409-842-3737

Home, Commercial & Industrial Services A/C and Heating Service & Installation Full Home Services Available 24 Hours 7 Days A Week No Overtime Charges Between 7am - 7pm No Extra Charge To Bolivar Peninsula 409-842-3737 | Fax: 409-842-3738 4950 Washington Blvd. Beaumont, TX 77707

ICMairconditioning.com September/October 2015

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Swede’s REAl EStAtE

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YEARS

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September/October 2015

Submit your email address to info@thebolivarlocal.com subject line SUBSCRIBE

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September/October 2015

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Experience Coastal Living.

NEWCOAST PROPERTIES

NEWCOASTPROPERTIES.COM

is your premier source for buying and selling real estate on Bolivar Peninsula, and the proud new owner and developer of Laguna Harbor and Seagrass Beach.

BRAD BALLARD Principal/Broker

281.639.0451 Brad@NewCoastProperties.com

LagunaHarbor.com

SeagrassBeach.com

CASEY BLUME Realtor

409.392.0341 Casey@NewCoastProperties.com

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beach vibes

Fall Beach Chic Warm up your coastal cottage this season with elements inspired by the natural surroundings of the beach. Think driftwood, jewel tones of the ocean, and soft hues of the sand. Complete the room with accents that incorporate a punch of bright coral.

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6.

5.

4.

1. CURREY & COMPANY DRIFTWOOD ORB CHANDELIER, houzz.com • 2. SARIA PILLOW, BRAZZAVILLE PILLOW, BOTH jossandmain.com, TEAL VELVET PILLOW, pier1.com • 3. CHARLIE TABLE LAMP, jossandmain.com • PELICAN ARTWORK, houzz.com; ASSIRO TANGERINE THROW, jossandmain.com • 5. NATHAN SIDEBOARD, jossandmain.com 6. JARRAHDALE PUMPKIN; NEUTRAL CORAL FABRIC, fabric.com September/October 2015

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by the sea

SING OUT, LOUISE! written by MELANIE WALLACE, ED.D • photos courtesy of BRENDA SMITH

I WAS A TERRIBLY SHY CHILD; shy to the point of

getting sweaty palms and short of breath at the prospect of being called on in class. Shy to the point of shrinking into the woodwork in any social situation. So shy that being involved in any kind of theatrical production was nowhere on my radar screen (well, shyness and a profound lack of talent). So, imagine my surprise when I found myself right smack in the middle of the Way Off Broadway Players.

Shortly after moving to the Bolivar Peninsula and joining Bay Vue United Methodist Church, I was introduced to the Director of Dramatics (and now my BFF), Linda Elissalde. That tiny church, with an average attendance of about 60 when we first joined, was a hub of benevolent activity on the peninsula. Those 60 souls delivered food to shut-ins, provided school supplies and Christmas presents to children of the peninsula, mowed lawns and repaired the roofs of widows, and generally did all kinds of good works. They also had a lot of fun.

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Linda, a pretty, perky blonde was (and still is) a ball of energy. A retired schoolteacher, she literally married the boy next door and moved to a sunny yellow cottage in Crystal Beach. Following 35 years in the classroom, Linda was not ready to retire from her avocation as a writer, director, and actor, and brought to life the Way Off Broadway Players; the name…a nod to both our geographic location and our talent level.

I earned my theatrical chops at the Christmas pageant that very first year. Linda asked me if I would be willing to do a Scottish dance. “Of course,” I said (wanting to fit in, but not having a clue about a Scottish dance). So, I did what any aspiring actor would do and typed in “Scottish Dance” on YouTube. I found an easy routine, pulled out two of my sons’ fencing swords and did a little Scottish jig right there at the altar of the Methodist Church (it was a Christmas pageant like none I’d ever seen). And that was just the beginning.

SING OUT, LOUISE

Linda Elissalde, photographed left, brings to the stage a mostly historically correct, entertaining, and witty account of the life of Jane Long during her time at Bolivar Point.

From there, I danced in a bikini top (okay, not a real one…one of those t-shirts with a bikini painted on it), played the cello dressed as the Wicked Witch of the West, danced as a twirling dervish, and tapped and played the cello again as a saloon girl. My husband Mack, an uptight engineer (who says that, if he had any personality, he would have been an accountant) came to life and has become famous on Bolivar as “Sign Man,” carrying signs as scenes change in each of the plays. He has carried signs dressed as a silent knight, a monk, a cowboy, a pirate, and a soldier.

He has come a long way! Nowadays, when he goes to the Big Store, patrons call across the aisles to him, “There’s Sign Man!” The infamous Pirates and Petticoats will be performed for the final time at the 6th Annual Jane Long Festival on October 10 at Fort Travis Seashore Park. With the magnificent Gulf of Mexico as a backdrop, Linda Elissalde brings to the stage a (mostly) historically correct, entertaining, and witty account of the life of Jane Long during her time at Bolivar Point.

I continue to be amazed at this crazy life. Every day on the Bolivar Peninsula is a new adventure. It’s funny how meeting just one new person can change the trajectory of your whole life. Meeting Linda and saying “yes” to the Scottish dance totally changed everything and opened opportunities and friendships that we had never dreamed of having.

People here on the peninsula are vibrant and full of life.

They have taught us the most important lessons of our lives. They taught us that getting older doesn’t mean getting serious and boring. They taught us that every day is a gift and that the greatest thanks we can give God is to enjoy each day and bring joy to as many others as possible.

Sing out, Louise…it’s a new day!

JANE

LONG

MOTHER OF TEXAS Jane Long is known as the Mother of Texas.

She wintered at Fort Las Casas on Point Bolivar during the coldest winter in history, 1821, alone except for her young daughter Ann and servant girl Kian. That December, she gave birth to one of the first Anglo children born in Texas and later helped give birth to the Republic of Texas by providing assistance to such well known Texans as Sam Houston, Mirabeau B. Lamar and Stephen F. Austin.

Hers is a story of bravery, wit, and loyalty.

bolivar peninsula cultural foundation 6TH ANNUAL JANE LONG

FESTIVAL

Saturday, October 10 fort travis seashore park • bolivar, texas 10 am - 4 pm Historical Bunker Tour Face Painting Bean Bag Tournament Pirates and Petticoats Production Silent Auction Food & Craft Vendors

fun for the whole family!

For more information, visit:

bolivarfoundation.com

September/October 2015

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outdoors

catch more flounder

BY CODY MARTIN & DOUG ROMERO • PHOTOGRAPHS BY ED SNYDER IN MEMORY OF FELIX "BO" HARRINGTON

IF YOU ASK ANY seasoned fisherman what fall on the peninsula

means to them, it’s likely one of the first things that come to mind is the fall flounder run. After the first cold front, as the water begins to cool, flounder begin to leave the bays and marshes and head to the deeper waters to spawn. Flounder that reside in the East Bay system have two ways to reach the Gulf of Mexico: Rollover Pass or through the ship channel located on the west end of the peninsula. Both places are accessible by boat or land and provide the opportunity to catch plentiful amounts of flounder and other species of fish. With the flounder run nearly upon us, here are five helpful tips to land that trophy flounder this season.

1

MONITOR THE TIDES

2

LIVE OR ARTIFICIAL BAIT

3

A SLOW RETRIEVE

4

FIND THE HOTSPOT

5

PATIENCE, FRIEND

Fish bite best when the tide is moving.

To properly take advantage of the fall flounder run, it’s best to fish an outgoing tide. The fish will be on the move and if possible, it’s best to drift or troll, if fishing on a boat.

Both work extremely well. If fishing with live bait, mullet, mud minnows, shad and live shrimp all work well. If fishing artificial, lures that mimic the action of one of these fish are your best bet. A popular choice is the Berkley Gulp!® swimming mullet, Cocahoe minnow or twirl tail grub and tipping your hook with dead shrimp is a good way to entice the picky flounder into biting.

Remember to work your lure slowly all the way back to the boat or shore. Often times, flounder will follow the bait a ways before striking the bait.

TD ED SNYDER/OU

If you catch a small flounder, a good strategy is to cast back into the same spot you cast directly before. Flounder congregate in the same areas and the smaller ones are typically more aggressive, so make multiple casts in the same spot before moving on.

OORS

When a flounder strikes, you will feel a sudden thump or you may feel dead weight. When either of these happen, it’s important to give the fish time to consume the bait. A good rule of thumb is to count to ten slowly before setting the hook.

ED SNYDER /O

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UTDOORS

S E H LS X R O CU I M A RS PIN VA IO G IL N A S B LE A

4312 West Boyt Rd. Port Bolivar, TX 77650

409-684-7777 bait • fuel • ice • snacks • low boat launch fees

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR. Get your rods ready.

GALVESTON BAY SAFARIS WITH CAPTAIN DELINO COMEAUX

GUIDED HUNTING • FISHING • SHRIMP TOURS

409-392-6002 CHIP CRUSTED FISH WITH GARLIC AIOLI FOR THE FISH 4 flounder fillets (or other firm

white fish) 2 teaspoons mayonnaise ¼ teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon Old Bay® Seasoning 1 cup salt & pepper kettle-style

potato chips, crushed

FOR THE GARLIC AIOLI 2 garlic cloves ¼ teaspoon sea salt ½ cup mayonnaise 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 tablespoon lemon juice dash of dill weed

PREPARATION Place all ingredients for aioli in a food processor.

Pulse until well blended. Chill for 30 mins. Preheat oven to 400°F. Arrange fillets on a greased baking sheet. Spread 1/2 teaspoon mayonnaise over top of each fillet; sprinkle evenly with seasonings. Gently press about 2 tablespoons crushed chips evenly on top of each fillet. Cook fish at 400°F for 10 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.

September/October 2015

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local business: COBB HOME BUILDERS

COLOR HAPPY A custom beach home built by Cobb Home Builders brings a flare of the Caribbean to Crystal Beach.

by DESTINY MARTIN photographs by PHIL CHARLTON

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local business: COBB HOME BUILDERS

F

or one Bay City, Texas couple, realizing their perfect home away from home started with finding the ideal beach. Living a mere two hours from some of the Texas’ most esteemed seaside towns, Bruce Krauskopf and his wife, Linda, were in search of something different, a more secluded coastal community with a laidback lifestyle. “We wanted to build our vacation home in a place less crowded than the obvious destinations,” says Bruce, “Crystal Beach is that place.”

From there, the Krauskopfs hired Tyler Coco of Cobb Home Builders to construct their 2,838 sq. ft. custom beachfront home. In business for more than forty years, Cobb Home Builders is a family-owned company that prides itself on their knowledge and experience of building on Bolivar Peninsula. Early in the construction process, the couple also called on the expertise of interior designer Melinda James of M James Design Group (mjamesdesigngroup.com) in Beaumont, Texas. Together, the three parties— homeowner, builder, and designer—collaborated to achieve a cheerful home inspired by the vibrancy and ease of the Caribbean islands.

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COLOR HAPPY

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BRIGHT AND AIRY As an oceanfront property, Cobb Home Builders designed the home to capitalize on the uninterrupted views of the Gulf.

Large, ceiling-height windows in nearly every room allow natural light to illuminate vibrant hues of the interior spaces. Focusing on traditional Caribbean influence, Melinda James’ choices of color are refreshingly unexpected.

A punchy lime green backsplash in the kitchen and aqua trim work throughout the home are anchored by more traditional selections of white cabinetry and natural-looking floors.

CARIBBEAN STYLE The Krauskopfs wanted their vacation home to be bright and colorful. With a playful palette as the design inspiration, Melinda James and her team were able to reflect a fun, relaxed atmosphere while maintaining a high level of sophistication through select design elements. By taking advantage of the special features Cobb Home Builders offer their clients such as nine-foot ceilings, spa-like bathrooms, and exceptional quality building materials, the team was able to arrive at a beach-centric home balanced by luxury finishes.

“Dune R Thing” is a premier rental property of Cobb Real Estate, the sister company of Cobb Home Builders. Founded in 1986, Cobb Real Estate sets the gold standard for vacation rentals with outstanding service, an undisputable reputation, and local agents who lead the industry in home sales. For more information about this property or other properties, visit cobbrealestate.com. To learn more about Cobb Home Builders, call Tyler Coco at (409) 651-6004.

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explore: THE BOLIVAR PENINSULA

A Walk Through Time WRITTEN BY DR. MELANIE WALLACE

I

n the fall of 2014, Arcadia Publishing contacted members of the Bolivar Peninsula Cultural Foundation, wanting to do a book on the history of the Bolivar Peninsula for their Images of America series. This series of over 6,000 titles chronicles the history of small towns across the country, featuring mostly vintage photos and brief stories about the people of the area.

Of course, I was honored and thrilled to be asked to take on such an important task. But, where to start? After doing some research, I learned that most of these books are compiled in partnership with a museum or university collection.

The author usually spends some time in the archives, putting together the story of the area. After years in academia, I knew that I could do that…piece of cake. I am at home in a library, to be sure.

Well, it didn’t exactly work out like that. There were only a very few photos of Bolivar available in the museums and libraries. I was going to have to dig a little deeper…and thank goodness for that!

The process has been the real blessing of this project for me.

Early on, I was invited to attend the “Bolivar Reunion,” a gathering of families of the early settlers of the peninsula.

Over the course of the ensuing eight months, I was welcomed into the homes of folks from Port Bolivar to High Island, given cake and coffee and photographs 20 |

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and heart-felt stories. I waded through the wetlands, traipsed through cemeteries, attended church services and potlucks, engaged in countless phone and e-mail conversations with folks willing to share their stories, and spent hours enjoying the company of old-timers on the peninsula. It has been a fascinating experience.

ARCADIA PUBLISHING

A WALK THROUGH TIME

SANKENBRUCK

I did not want for interesting content. As my friend Brenda Folsom always said, “truth is stranger than fiction.” You could not make this stuff up! From tales of hundreds taking refuge in the lighthouse as hurricanes raged through the night to pirates partying in the oak grove in High Island to reports of the round-up on goat island, to a haunted restaurant in Gilchrist, the Bolivar Peninsula is rich with tales that go beyond the imagination.

Fortunately, we are also rich with good people ready and willing to share those stories and photographs.

What resulted is a document revealing the tip of the iceberg that is the history of our peninsula. It would require an encyclopedia of multiple volumes and a hundred chapters to do justice to the telling of the story of the Bolivar Peninsula. The Images of America publication requires adherence to a specific formula, with a limited number of pages and photographs. What the book does is whet the appetite of history lovers and lovers of the Bolivar Peninsula, encouraging us to carry on conversations with old-timers to continue to chronicle the fascinating history of this place we call home.

LECTURE

SERIES BOLIVAR PENINSULA CULTURAL FOUNDATION PRESENTS

THE MAKING OF THE BOOK: THE BOLIVAR EXPERIENCE WITH DR. MELANIE WALLACE

OCTOBER 3, 4-6PM THE BOOK WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE FOLLOWING THE LECTURE The location of the lecture is to be determined.

For more information, visit bolivarfoundation.com or call (409) 789-3818.

Where history, art, and music come together.

September/October 2015

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in the community:

SANBO

Local outreach assists with spay and neuter services.

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BY DESTINY MARTIN • PHOTOS COURTESY OF SANBO

ALL PAWS ON DECK

One of the greatest and most unique things about Bolivar Peninsula is the generosity of its people. With countless fundraising events held throughout the year, it’s evident that locals here are committed to the vitality and momentum of their community and I’m always impressed by their willingness to do more.

I recently had the pleasure of meeting two such locals, Debby Ward and Debbie Ploeger. Earlier this year, Debby and Debbie founded Spay And Neuter Beach Outreach, also known as SANBO, a community project of Texas Crab Festival Charities. The program’s mission is to help the under served people and pets on the peninsula by offering spay and neutering services at no expense to local and qualified pet owners.

Dozens of dogs are found dumped on our area beaches, with hundreds more not properly cared for, claimed or protected. Stray animals pose an on-going problem in our community.

They can prey on wildlife, cause car accidents, damage property, and in some cases, frighten or harm people.

On the surface, SANBO is an animal outreach program, but Ploeger explains it as truly a “people” matter.

“It’s important to educate our community about the benefits of spaying and neutering and focus our efforts where we can make the most impact—right in our own backyard.”

This past March, not long after inception, SANBO raised funds to organize their first communitywide initiative. Through the Prevent A Litter, Fix Your Critter campaign, SANBO was able to pay for SNAP (a mobile clinic from Harris County that offers free spay, neuter, and rabies shots for individuals on various forms of financial assistance) to visit the peninsula. In one day, 23 local pets were successfully spayed and neutered.

Due to recent changes in funding and programming, SNAP has no immediate plans of bringing the mobile clinic back to the Bolivar Peninsula. Therefore, SANBO is now accommodating one pet at a time based on need and available funding through a veterinary clinic located in Beaumont, Texas.

SANBO is working to improve our community in other ways, too, and recently adopted a one-mile stretch of beach between Gulf Coast Drive and Alma Road. The organization’s next civic event will be held on September 26 during the state-

Opposite: Founders of SANBO Debby Ward and Debbie Ploeger (top left), a local pet owner holds his dog while waiting for SNAP service on Bolivar Peninsula (right), remaining photos from SANBO's one-day outreach held in March 2015

wide Adopt-A-Beach clean up day.

Everyone is invited to join in the clean up efforts to help keep Bolivar beautiful!

If you and your four-legged friend might benefit from SANBO’s efforts or if you wish to donate to the cause, email Debby Ward at dloward@aol. com or Debbie Ploeger at dploeger@ gt.rr.com to begin the application process or request a sponsor form.

To learn more about SANBO, visit their Facebook page at SANBO-Spay & Neuter Beach Outreach.

BENEFITS OF

SPAYING AND NEUTERING

Your pets will live longer, healthier lives

Your pets will make more affectionate companions and are less likely to roam

Unsterilized animals tend to exhibit more aggressive behavior and are more inclined to bite

It's more cost-effective than

having to care for unwanted litters

More importantly, spaying and neutering reduces over population and decreases the number of homeless pets in our community

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local events

SEPTEMBER 12

Beth Moore “Living Proof” Simulcast Ladies only! First Baptist Church Crystal Beach is hosting “Living Proof,” a live simulcast with American Evangelist and best-selling author, Beth Moore. Join more than 250,000 females around the globe for this live, internet-streamed event that encourages women to grow deeper in their faith. The event will be held from 8:30 am - 4:15 pm with breakfast and lunch provided. Call (409) 684-4413 for more information.

PHOTO BY DEBRA DECKARD

13

Ladies Only Concealed Handgun License Course Port Bolivar Fire Station at 12:30 pm. Call (409) 939-0750 for more information.

19

Port Bolivar Volunteer Fire Department's 17th Annual BBQ Cook-off Join the Port Bolivar Volunteer Fire Department at their 17th Annual BBQ Cookoff. Barbecue dinners will be on sale from 11:00 am - 5:30 pm and will consist of brisket, chicken, or sausage. $15 donation for two-meat plate, $10 donation for onemeat plate. Raffle prizes at 5 pm, live auction at 6 pm. For more information, contact Malcom Comeaux at (409) 771-7026 or BJ Jewell at (409) 599-7815.

19

Eagles Trade Days Held the third Saturday of each month at the Crystal Beach Eagles Lodge, 1835 Hwy 87. Begins at 10 am. Contact Shelley Stenius at (409) 790-0214 for more info.

26

Bolivar Peninsula Lions Club Stingaree Saltwater Slam Fishing Tournament Bolivar Peninsula Lions Club and Stingaree Restaurant host their annual fishing tournament benefiting the Lions Club Scholarship Fund for local youth.

Visit www.bplions.org for official rules and details.

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26

Texas General Land Office Adopt-A-Beach Fall Cleanup Volunteers can sign up online at www. texasadoptabeach.org to take part in a fun-filled day at the beach that makes a difference. Each volunteer will be given data cards, gloves, pencils and trash bags.

All volunteers are advised to wear closedtoe shoes, bring sunscreen and plenty of drinking water. Check-in at 8:30 am Crystal Beach Volunteer Fire Department, 930 Noble Carl Dr. For more information, contact Janis Malitz at (409) 454-4756 or janis.malitz@texasadoptabeach.org.

OCTOBER 3 Bolivar Peninsula Cultural

Foundation Lecture Series with Dr. Melanie Wallace The Jane Long Lecture Series will feature The Making of the Book: The Bolivar Experience with Dr. Melanie Wallace on Saturday, October 3 from 4:00-6:00 pm.

Location TBD. For more information, visit www.bolivarfoundation.com

10

6th Annual Jane Long Festival Held every second Saturday in October at historic Fort Travis Seashore Park, The Jane Long Festival aims to educate locals and visitors about the Mother of Texas.

Attractions include tours of Fort Travis (the first fort established by the Republic of Texas and built in 1898), Pirates & Petticoats production performed by the Way Off Broadway Players, non-stop stage entertainment, and numerous food and craft vendors. Fun for the whole family!

10 am - 4 pm. For more information, visit www.janelongfestival.org.

17

Bolivar Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Golf Tournament Tournament begins at 8 am at Crystal Beach Community Golf Course. Cash prizes to be awarded. For more information about registration, contact Mac McDonald at (409) 739-0530 or the Chamber Office at (409) 684-5940.

17

Eagles Trade Days Held the third Saturday of each month at the Crystal Beach Eagles Lodge, 1835 Hwy 87. Begins at10 am. Contact Shelley Stenius at (409) 790-0214 for more info.

31

Halloween Bash Ghost on the Coast returns to Gulf Coast Market (the Big Store) in Crystal Beach.

Join us for Trunk or Treat, contests, and an all around spooktacularly good time.

Gates open at 5 pm.

local directory PLACES TO EAT

Harold's Garden Depot 1755 Hwy 87 (409) 684-1755

Down Under 1295 N. Stingaree Rd. (409) 684-2731

Home By The Sea Decor (409) 684-9550

Hard Heads 1035 Hwy 87 (409) 684-1177

Latitude 29.2 Surf Shop Open 7 days a week 9am - 6pm (409) 684-0594

Jose’s Cantina 1698 Hwy 87 (409) 684-1180

Maven's Boutique & Tanning Salon 2275 Hwy 87, Ste. 16 (409) 684-1094

La Playita Mexican Restaurant 703 Madison Port Bolivar (409) 684-1383

Tropical Accents 2950 Hwy 87 WednesdaySaturday 10:30am - 5pm, Sunday noon 4pm (409) 684-0009

Ocean Grille 2275 Hwy 87, Suite 15 (409) 684-0011

THE BIG STORE

P.O. BOX 2327 2385 HWY 87 CRYSTAL BEACH, TX STORE HOURS

SUN - THURS 7:00AM - 9:00PM FRI - SAT 7:00AM - 9:30PM

Steve’s Landing 1290 Bay Vue Dr. (409) 684-1999 Stingaree Restaurant 1295 N. Stingaree Rd. (409) 684-2731 Tiki Beach Bar and Grill 1369 Hwy 87 (409) 684-9594

PLACES TO STAY cabins/vacation homes All I Need 987 Biscayne, Ramada Beach Subdivision. Sleeps 4-6. (409) 782-4965 Crystal Beach Cabanas 1022 Lakewood Dr. Cabanas sleep 5-6, trailers sleep 4-5.

(409) 362-6706 Sands of Time 988 Hamilton Dr. Sleeps 10.

(409) 960-9151

hotels/motels Gulfway Motel & Grill 1365 Hwy 124 High Island (409) 286-2125 Crystal Palace 1600 Hwy 87 Crystal Beach (409) 684-6554

rv parks Crystal Beach Palms RV Park 1755 Hwy 87 (409) 684-1755

appliance/rv repairs Island Appliance & RV Repairs, LLC Call Mack at 409-362-6706

THINGS TO DO Fort Travis Seashore Park, Port Bolivar Playground, cooking facilities and picnic areas available to the public Galveston Bay Safaris 4312 W Boyt Rd. Port Bolivar (409) 392-6002

PHONE

(409) 684-2400 FAX

(409) 684-0306

I Love Nails 2275 Hwy 87, Ste. 9 (409) 684-9095

SHOPPING

CHURCHES

First Baptist Church of Port Bolivar 523 Nelson Street, Port Bolivar (409) 684-8976. Sunday school 10am Service Times: Sundays 11am & 6pm, Wednesdays 7pm First Baptist Church of Crystal Beach 1260 Hwy 87, Crystal Beach (409) 684-4413. Sunday School 9:30am Sunday Worship 10:30am First Baptist Church of High Island 1368 Weeks Avenue, High Island Sunday School 9:30am Service Times: Sundays 10:30am & 6pm, Wednesdays 7pm Our Lady By The Sea Catholic Center 2400 Hwy 87, Crystal Beach Sunday Mass 8am holyfamilygb.com Crystal Beach Community Church 1020 Diamond Road, Crystal Beach Sunday Service 10:30am Thursday Bible Study 6:30pm crystalbeachcommunitychurch.org Bolivar Peninsula Church of Christ Hwy 87 at Tidelands, Crystal Beach (409) 782-2305 Sunday Bible Study 9am Sunday Worship 10am Port Bolivar United Methodist Church 12th at Madison, Port Bolivar (409) 684-7510 Sunday Worship 2pm Bay Vue United Methodist Church 1411 Hwy 87, Crystal Beach (409) 684-6678 Sunday Worship 9am Food & Fellowship 10am St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church 1308 Weeks Avenue, High Island (409) 286-5164 Sunday School 10am Sunday Worship 11am Lighthouse Apostolic Fellowship 343 Hwy 87, Crystal Beach (832) 318-2364 Sunday School 10am, Sunday Evening 6pm Tuesday Bible Study 7pm

2nd Going 1050 Bay Vue Dr. WednesdaySaturday 9am - 3pm Gulf Coast Market/The BIG Store 2385 Hwy 87 Open 7 days a week 7am - 9pm September/October 2015

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sea

Untitled by Kendra Cliett

Ava Mae by Monica Huber

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theLOCAL

September/October 2015

be seen

Wish Upon a Starfish

by Renee Bennett

Storms Headed Our Way by Belinda Bailey

sea & be seen

My Bolivar Backyard by Taylor Macon

I Told You Mermaids Are Real by Meranda Bartosh

Arise by Brenda Warren

Untitled by Debra Deckard

September/October 2015

theLOCAL

| 27

sea & be seen Jack On My Pier by Debby Ward

Share your LOCAL scene.

Send us photos of your favorite places, people and past times on the peninsula and your image could be featured in an upcoming issue of our magazine. Submit high resolution (300 dpi) images to info@thebolivarlocal.com. Please include your name, contact info and the title of the image.

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theLOCAL

September/October 2015

It's all about you.

S P EC I A L I Z I N G I N BUY E R R E P R ES E N TAT I O N

MARY ELLEN SMITH is a broker associate for Cobb Real Estate who specializes in Buyer Representation. Mary Ellen focuses on every aspect of her clients’ needs, from initial property search to closing, and with more than 35 years of business experience on the peninsula, she’s sure to help you find the home of your dreams. If you’re looking to purchase a property on the Bolivar Peninsula, remember, as a buyer, what you’re entitled to...

Accountability Fairness

Mary Ellen Smith

Broker Associate (ePRO®, GRI, SFR®, SRES®) phone: 409-457-1070 email: CrystalBeachBroker@att.net CrystalBeachResortProperties.com Cobb Real Estate 2290 Hwy 87 Crystal Beach, TX 77650 office: 409-684-3790

Honesty Reasonable Care Confidentiality Full Disclosure Aid in Negotiations Objective Evaluation Price Counseling Loyalty Promoting Your Interest

Buyers Without Representation:

Buyers With Representation:

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

C RYSTA L B EAC H R ES O RT P R O P E RT I ES.COM

Closest to Blue Water.

Immediate access to the Gulf of Mexico Waterfront homesites starting at $65,000 Concrete bulkheads, deep canals, FEMA insurable

HOMES FROM THE 300’s

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Luxury living.

Beachfront.

An exclusive development on Bolivar Peninsula consisting of 35 beachfront homesites, a resortstyle swimming pool, a fire pit and a fishing pond.

HOMES FROM THE 400’s

SeagrassBeach.com