The Local November/December 2016

theLOCAL BOLIVAR PENINSULA'S MAGAZINE

S TIN GARE E RE S TA U R A N T & M A RIN A :

GALVESTON BAY’S CLASSIC SEAFOOD HOUSE TURNS 30 Plus 7 NOTABLE NONPROFITS YOU NEED TO KNOW DUCK HUNTING THE TEXAS COAST complimentary NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016

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contents NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016

28

16

20

Certified Monarch Waystation created by Keep Bolivar Beautiful and the Bolivar Beach Bloomers at Noble Carl Park

10

04 Editor’s Note 07 Beach Vibes

Beach Home Holiday Ready

10 Outdoors

Duck Hunting the Texas Coast

by Dave Roberts

14 Neches Brewing Company Texas-grown taproom with an edge in local flavor

by Destiny Martin

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November/December 2016

16

24

Local Business

28 In the Community

by Destiny Martin

by Destiny Martin

True Grit

20 Local Feature

Stingaree Restaurant & Marina: Galveston Bay’s Classic Seafood House

by Kevin R. Roberts

24 By The Sea Gifts

by Melanie Wallace, Ed.D.

Notable Nonprofits

38 Local Events Calendar 42 Sea and Be Seen

November/December 2016

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local. EDITOR’S NOTE

On The Cover

seas & greetings, y’all!

FALL LEADING INTO WINTER is a celebrated time of year on the Texas Gulf Coast. It’s a season that brings out the best in our local community, with hundreds of volunteers and several charitable organizations doing their part to spread good cheer to local children, families, and individuals in need. Because each of these groups do so much throughout the year to improve the lives in and around the Bolivar Peninsula, we wanted to recognize them for their hard work and generosity. As you learn about each one in our Notable Nonprofits feature on page 28, I hope that you will be inspired to make a difference in someone’s life this holiday season by giving your time or personal donation.

Congratulations to Stingaree Restaurant & Marina and RE/MAX On The Water, two area businesses celebrating anniversaries this year.

Established in 1986, Stingaree

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November/December 2016

Restaurant is a local institution best known for their authentic seafood dishes and easy-going atmosphere.

Read more on page 20.

2016 also marks the tenth anniversary for the RE/MAX team.

Find out about how they plan to celebrate in their feature on page 16.

In keeping with the spirit of entrepreneurship, The Local ventured off the Peninsula to bring you a story about a new microbrewery—the Neches Brewing Company, a Texasgrown taproom that is pouring up some fresh, local flavor. Check it out on page 14.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas, and prosperous New Year!

DESTINY MARTIN, EDITOR

destiny@thebolivarlocal.com

Mark Nesmith’s painting Down Under By The Sun, graces our cover of this issue as an ode to Stingaree Restaurant & Marina established in 1986. Mark is a modern American painter and musician who lives and works in Southeast Texas, and often visits the Bolivar Peninsula.

He enjoys painting semi-surreal and allegorical landscapes which he says manifest from a combination of his own observation, memory, and imagination. For more information about Mark’s work, visit his website at www.marknesmith.com.

LIKE THE LOCAL MAGAZINE? Get a digital version of every issue delivered right to your in-box by signing up for our bi-monthly newsletter. Simply email us at info@thebolivarlocal.com, subject line: SUBSCRIBE, to stay up-todate with our latest releases.

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November/December 2016

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November/December 2016

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O

ne of the greatest feelings in the world is having a soft north wind blowing cool Texas air in your face.

It is a relieving feeling and a great reminder that you survived another scorching summer. Fall is here and will quickly be followed by winter. Every year, waterfowl accompany the north wind during their yearly migration south and many become winter residents here on the Texas coast.

Like the transitioning weather at this time of year, many Gulf Coast outdoorsmen put down their fishing rods and dust off their shotguns.

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November/December 2016

Texas has some of the best waterfowl hunting there is to offer and we are fortunate enough to have plenty of local places to partake in it. Thankfully, conservation is a key factor here on the Gulf Coast. There are several state parks and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) that are designed to maintain the natural habitat for ducks and geese. Places like J.D. Murphree, the McFadden Wildlife Refuge, Texas Point and the Lower Neches are a few of the local WMAs that combined have over 85,000 acres of wildlife refuge.

In return for helping to collect species data

during the allotted season, the public is able to go and harvest their share of birds to bring to the dinner table.

If hunting public land isn’t for you, our area has thousands of acres of rice fields that provide an ample amount of food for migrating birds. Our local crops will produce a large number of birds for any hunter that is willing and able to hunt them. If you don’t have direct access to private lands, many fields are now leased to outfitters that bring clients hunting.

Either way, flooded rice fields are a great place to hunt during the winter.

local. OUTDOORS

Waterfowl hunting on the Texas coast is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation. There is a wealth of knowledge and innovation that has come from duck hunters and the sport has advanced far from where it started.

The original 1920s Cypress tree air boats have been replaced by aluminum hulled boats with souped-up mud motors. The hand carved decoys that our grandparents and their parents whittled are now collectors’ items and have been exchanged for a lighter, more detailed plastic version.

The calls, bag limits, laws and methods

have all changed, but the one thing that still remains the same is the obsession. It takes a certain type of person to wake up in the early morning hours before the sun rises and navigate a boat to a back pond in freezing temperatures. Add a light drizzle of rain that quickly turns to ice, and you start to wonder why you put yourself through it.

But the very moment a flock of pintail or mallards begin to work your decoys, you quickly forget about everything else.

Getting up early. The long boat ride.

Dragging dozens of decoys. Numb hands and a frozen face—all are put aside as you focus in on the group overhead, waiting for them to commit. The anticipation is a lingering rush that only a true hunter knows. When they finally fly into the spread (just as you planned) and your point yells, “Take ‘em!”, your efforts are vindicated and this is why we do what we do. This is the obsession. tL

Dave Roberts is an avid kayak fisherman, writer and photographer who travels the Texas Coast documenting his experiences along the way. For more information, visit his blog at www.texaskayakchronicles.com, or email him at texaskayakchronicles@yahoo.com.

November/December 2016

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Neches Brewing Company: Texas-grown taproom offering an edge in local flavor story + photos by destiny martin IF YOU TAP IT THEY WILL COME reads one of the many signs that hang in the Neches Brewing Company, an eclectic brewery and pub that is receiving rave reviews and an exceedingly unexpected number of patrons since its grand opening six weeks ago. “Every evening the street is packed with people,” says co-owner and brewmaster Tyler Blount. No doubt, people are eager and curious to try the latest release of IPA, lager, or stout the newfangled microbrewery has to offer.

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“The support has been overwhelming,” he tells me.

Though NBC just recently opened its doors, the concept of launching the first neighborhood brewery in his sleepy hometown of Port Neches is one that’s been fermenting in Blount’s mind since 2014. His first taste of craft beer inspired him—along with a few friends—to begin home brewing and experimenting with a variety of flavors. It was then that he partnered with David Pool, another PN-G

BUZZ WORTHY

and Lamar University alum (with a beard), who has more than 12 years of business management experience under his belt.

The duo found the location in the heart of the city’s evolving downtown area, applied for their brew pub license, and got to work on transforming the backdrop into a cool, rustic space with coastal elements.

The process from grain to glass requires a certain amount of patience. It takes approximately three weeks for NBC to brew any one of their 60 house recipes, but time that Blount assures me is well worth the wait when you arrive at the finished product. NBC’s flagship brews like 409 Honey Blonde, Satsuma Wheat Beer, and Pecan Porter contain local ingredients like honey harvested in the Golden Triangle, satsumas from Port Neches, pecans from

Neches Brewing Company is located at 1108 Port Neches Avenue. Visit the taproom from noon to midnight, Monday through Saturday, and noon to 10 pm on Sunday. Follow them on social media @nechesbrewingcompany

Groves, and locally roasted coffees from Beaumont’s own TexJoy and Seaport.

Their licensure permits NBC to brew in-house as well as feature a rotation of guest taps from other local brewers, like Galveston Island Brewing, but it does not allow them to distribute. Blount says for now, that’s the way he likes it. By offering beers brewed onsite, he explains their product is at peak freshness and optimum quality. Plus, not distributing allows the small brewery to concentrate on the craft.

“We can introduce new beer styles all the time.” And it’s that business model he is confident will keep people coming back for more. tL

GET TO KNOW NECHES BREWING COMPANY'S CRAFT BEERS 409 HONEY BLONDE: NBC’s house light beer that is good any time of year. Every batch incorporates local honey, and helps to support beekeepers from the Southeast Texas region.

PEA PATCH PALE ALE: Paying homage to Andrew Landry—pro golfer from PN-G who led the U.S. Open for three days—this beer is named after the old 9-hole golf course in Groves. It offers subtle tropical notes of pineapple, mango and citrus.

EL VERANO: Spanish for Summer, El Verano is a Mexican-style ale similar to Modelo. The variety of hops used provides a slight hint of lime.

BIG FLOYD’S STOUT: NBC’s signature imperial stout brewed with oats, locally roasted coffee, cinnamon, lactose milk sugar, Mexican brown sugar, and organic 98% cocoa. At 10% alcohol, it packs a punch!

November/December 2016

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The RE/MAX team (from left): Neil Spiller, Candy Spiller, Jeanie Turk, Barbara Davis, Brenda Flanagan, Debby Kahla, Kathy Hammond, JoAnn Hughes, Buddy Hughes, (not pictured): Cody Hammond, Jessica Hughes, Carrie Goeloe, and Brandi Best

True Grit

RE/MAX On The Water celebrates the successes and hardships of running a business on Bolivar Peninsula story + photos by destiny martin

A

t one point or another you may have asked yourself, “What is the key to building a successful business?”

According to real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran, it’s all about collecting the best sales people you can find. By the Shark Tank investor’s standards, the very best sales people are defined by “how well they can take a hit.” And how quickly they recover.

RE/MAX broker and owner Jeanie Turk couldn’t agree more. In fact, her career has been defined by and recognized for her 16 16 | | theLOCAL theLOCAL

November/December March/April 2016 2016

ability to bounce back from adversity, and she attributes much of her success to the team of esteemed Realtors, rental agents, and personnel who work with her. Their office, RE/MAX On The Water, celebrates its tenth year of business on the Peninsula this month.

Open For Business The story of this hardworking enterprise began back in 2006, when Turk partnered with Buddy Hughes, Neil Spiller, and Kathy Hammond to open RE/MAX On The Water along Highway 87; her second

franchise to serve greater Southeast Texas.

At the time, the Crystal Beach housing market was postured as a hotspot for real estate investors and agents alike, known then—and still today—as one of the most affordable beach towns in America. But in 2008, just a short 18 months after opening, RE/MAX On The Water along with many other local businesses, faced economic uncertainty due to the global financial crisis compounded by the devastation of Hurricane Ike, which destroyed more than 80% of the homes on Bolivar Peninsula.

“In less than 24 hours, we lost two-thirds

local. BUSINESS

of our inventory,” Spiller says.

Albeit a hardship, the obstacle didn’t stop the leading real estate and property management company from making a big comeback. In “true grit” fashion, Turk and her team of professionals pulled up their bootstraps and turned a challenge into an opportunity. “We rebuilt the business from the ground up,” says co-owner Buddy Hughes. Today, hundreds of nationally recognized RE/MAX signs occupy nearly every corner of the Bolivar Peninsula and are a testament to just how far the business has come in the past decade.

Giving Back Beyond Measure To appreciate the accomplishments achieved by the RE/MAX team in the last ten years though, it’s important to point out their dedication; not only to the task of selling and managing beach properties, but in helping support charitable organizations on both a local and national level. Its Realtors and staff actively participate in community-based initiatives like raising scholarship funds for resident students, the GLO’s Adopt-A-Beach program, Texas Crab Festival, the Lone Survivor Foundation, and the Chamber of Commerce, just to name a few. Beyond that, a portion of every closing made with a RE/MAX On The Water Realtor is donated to a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital and helps to provide medical care to kids in need. Collectively, agents from RE/MAX On The Water have contributed $18,000 to Texas Children’s Hospital through the program.

The RE/MAX office is enthusiastic to continue that tradition and will be hosting a fundraising golf tournament November 19 to commemorate their anniversary.

Friends and clients are encouraged to join in the weekend-long celebration that will kick off Friday night with a Silent Auction and Calcutta at Tiki Bar & Grill in Crystal

In less than 24 hours, we lost two-thirds of our inventory.

Beach. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Texas Children’s Hospital.

Looking back, Turk admits she’s faced some personal hardships, but her employees would point out that she’s never let it get the better of her.

“Jeanie is a true visionary who inspires us all,” explains Associate Broker Kathy Hammond. “Her passion for life and her work is evident in everything she does.”

Echoing the sentiment, Turks says, “I’m incredibly proud of this wellrounded group. I can’t wait to see what they do in the next ten years!” tL

Properly managing your investment: Rental Manager Brenda Flanagan explains how RE/MAX works with homeowners to maximize their rate of return on an investment property to help offset the rising cost of taxes and insurance

RE/MAX On The Water is located at 2080 B Hwy 87. Call (409) 684-3377 or email remaxrentals@att.net for more information.

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STINGAREE RESTAURANT & MARINA:

GALVESTON BAY’S CLASSIC SEAFOOD HOUSE story by kevin r. roberts | photos by destiny martin

T

he Gulf Coast of Texas and Louisiana is home to a unique and historically significant genre of seafood restaurant called a seafood house. Typically they are rustic, family-run establishments overlooking the water.

Oh, sure, they all fry up some nice, wildcaught Gulf shrimp; but what they really offer is a relaxed family dining experience that the modern corporate seafood restaurants struggle to provide.

These old-fashioned seafood houses seem to be stuck in the delightful middle between franchise food and fine dining.

There is something so typically Southern about dining at a long table with friends, picking blue crabs, peeling shrimp, and enjoying Creole gumbo. It’s a Zen thing and Stingaree has it.

Founded in 1986, Stingaree compares favorably to Middendorf ’s legendary 1934 restaurant at Manchac Swamp, Louisiana.

After a fire and renovation in 2008, Stingaree has the timeless feel of Bruning’s historic 1859 seafood house in Bucktown, Louisiana (which has since been washed away by disrespectful hurricanes in 1998 and 2005). Although it’s difficult to duplicate this style of dining, Stingaree has done it.

The more of these beloved seafood houses we lose, the more we should experience those that remain. Stingaree is authentic. Where else can you enjoy perfectly boiled Gulf shrimp and pecan-crusted soft-shell crabs while watching barge traffic on the Intracoastal Waterway?

The owner, Brad Vratis, is third-generation of this proud Greek family of proven restaurateurs.

His grandfather owned the legendary Jim’s Steakhouse in Beaumont, Texas, and his Uncle George ran the Gaslight in Crystal Beach prior to opening Stingaree. Back then it was a modest bait camp with a funny name.

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Brad credits his father for teaching him his work ethic. His dad, nicknamed “Bosco,” used to say, “If it don’t hurt, it ain’t work.” He also warned Brad to never tell a man how to tie up his boat. Brad has developed his own quotable virtues too, calling his management style “hands-in, not hands-on.” He also jokingly refers to Bolivar’s labor pool as a labor puddle; however, he has managed to retain a committed lot of well-tenured employees despite Bolivar Peninsula’s inevitable off season.

Brad, now 40-years-old, has finally settled into the hospitality business. In 2006, he earned a degree in Maritime Administration from Texas A&M. Then, prior to taking over the restaurant in 2007, he was an area sales manager for a retail chain of shoe stores.

However, “dipping minnows” seems to be the job of which he is most proud.

The menu here is fairly traditional, but with just enough modern refinement to make it interesting. That’s thanks to Chef Miguel. For example, his variation on Pascal Manale’s world famous Barbecue Shrimp is what he calls Jerk Shrimp. It’s a generous portion, served shell-on with a mild Jamaican spice balance that dances on your tongue. Brad admits that the dish is a bit messy, but I note that the headless shrimp are easy to peel because they’re not over boiled, as is so often the case in lesser kitchens.

Fried soft-shell crab is a simple dish. At Stingaree the delicate molting blue crab has been Greekified: dredged in corn flour and chopped pecans, then baked. It’s delicious.

As any true Cajun knows, there are hundreds of styles of Creole gumbo. When the server set the seafood gumbo before me, I could smell the filé powder. I knew then, that

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VISIT STINGAREE RESTAURANT & MARINA 1295 N Stingaree Rd. Crystal Beach, TX 409.684.2731 stingaree.com

these guys were serious about their recipes: no bagged roux, no shortcut stock, no parboiled rice. Brad explains that his house-made stock is a two-day process, cooked down from snapper instead of chicken.

The filé powder is added after the gumbo is taken off the flame so that it does not get “stringy.” Yes, this filé gumbo, with its savory combination of lump crab and shrimp, is as authentic as it gets.

Next to the restaurant sits Stingaree Marina with a concrete ramp and a shop selling fuel, ice, and live bait. With dock-able bulkheads, feel free to arrive by boat.

Just below the restaurant is an open air bar called “Down Under” which often hosts community events like Brad and Big Rich’s Cajun Chef ’s Cook-off to benefit the Holtzclaw Memorial Foundation, as well as several fishing tournaments throughout the year.

In my opinion, Stingaree offers the total package, worthy of a day trip with the kids. Don’t forget to bring your camera for the golden sunset over the Bay. tL Kevin R. Roberts is a freelance writer who finds Galveston Island to be a fantastically original city, not unlike his hometown of New Orleans where he was best known for his underground restaurant guide. Since moving to Texas his restaurant reviews, celebrity interviews, and lifestyle stories have appeared in numerous regional magazines. His email is kevinrroberts@mac.com.

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Gifts

local. BY THE SEA

G

ifts come in many shapes and sizes. Through the years, I’ve received some pretty great ones. A few of those have been fancy and probably a bit pricey, but the ones that I remember and love the most are the ones that had an element of time. Special gifts include those made by my mother; gifts that took some time to create, those that involved spending time with those that I love; gifts of trips or special events, and those that took me back in time; gifts of memory.

When I was a young teen, I spent just about every weekend night babysitting for some neighborhood family or another.

Even at 50 cents an hour, I accumulated a pretty good stash of cash, which I kept in a Tupperware container at the top of my closet. Back in the Dark Ages, when I was a teenager, one actually had to go to the bank to get cash (the ATM was not even a twinkle in the banker’s eye at that time).

So, if my parents hadn’t gotten to the bank and needed to go to the store, my dad would often “borrow” from my stash. He always left an IOU and he always paid me back. He signed those IOUs “The Green Phantom.”

Many years later, when I was married and had kids of my own, my parents started a tradition of giving us a $100 bill as payback for those Green Phantom attacks. It was always unveiled after all of the other Christmas presents had been opened and was presented in an interesting way-always a part of something that my mother created. My favorite was a green stuffed doll (made by my mother and complete with a green cape), with a Xeroxed picture of my dad’s face attached.

The $100 bill was pinned to the back, under the cape. Though it’s been over 30 years since I received that gift, I can still remember laughing uncontrollably when

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November/December 2016

story by melanie wallace, ed.d.

I opened it. Of course, I still have the doll and smile every December when I come across the box of assorted ornaments and decorations to rediscover my Green Phantom.

One year when I was in high school, my sister and I received an ancient, peeling turquoise Volkswagen Bug. Though I was always a curious pre-Christmas snooper, I didn’t have a clue about this impending gift. I did think it was strange that Daddy decided to go separately from the rest of the family as we traveled the four hours to my grandparent’s house in East Texas for the Christmas holiday. As he told the tale later, he dodged the family station wagon all the way down Highway 69. He said that he would spot my mother (a notoriously slow driver) creeping down the highway, then he would dart behind an 18 wheeler so we couldn’t see him.

I’ll never forget my absolutely thrilled, squealing sister’s reaction to seeing that geriatric contraption on that misty Christmas morning.

When our boys were in college, we decided that we would give the gift of travel. Since their dorm rooms were tiny and they didn’t have room for more stuff, we decided that making memories was a much better use for our Christmas budget. Hating for the boys to wake up on Christmas morning without any “Santa” (as we call the presents brought on Christmas Eve), I created a crossword puzzle which gave clues about where the trip would take us each year. My puzzles were pretty lame. We had great times on those trips and some of our exploits have become family folklore. Though their new careers and families of their own keep us from taking those trips these days, those magnificent times are there in my memory. And, I’ll still break out a new, lame puzzle on occasion.

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One of my all-time favorite Christmas gift memories will be recreated on December 3 this year. A few years ago, I joined the group from Bolivar who went over to the Arboretum in Winnie to entertain and bring gifts to the elderly residents there. Of course, as is always the case in these situations, we were the real recipients of the gift.

The Bolivar group consisted of singers and musicians, dancers and prayerwarriors. We sang and danced, played our instruments as the residents sang along and clapped, and delivered the handmade gifts created by peninsula knitters and school children. It was an all-around glorious morning.

Before leaving, we decided to carol through the halls of the residence for those who were too ill to come into the common area for the performance. There, the true gift was given. Toward the end of our visit, we came upon a little lady in a wheelchair, attended

Our beloved Peninsula is the perfect spot for making memories. The spirit of giving is always evident here.

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by her sweet daughter-in-law who told us that her mother-in-law had not spoken a word in several years following a stroke. As we sang Silent Night, gathered around the wheelchair, the little lady began to mouth the words to that beautiful hymn. The daughter-inlaw began to cry and the rest of us were almost unable to continue from the emotion of the moment. As we finished Silent Night, we moved into a series of other beautiful Christmas hymns, accompanied each time by the perfect remembrance of each word by our new, dear friend. She never missed a syllable. The gift of music.

Our beloved Bolivar Peninsula is the perfect spot for making memories. The spirit of giving is always evident here. My holiday wish for each of you is that you receive the perfect gift. Often, that gift is received from the act of giving. So, Merry Christmas and (as we old school teachers always say‌) See you next year! tL

Melanie Wallace has been an early childhood educator for over 40 years. Her dad was a boat salesman, so she claims to have grown up on the water. After years of vacationing on Bolivar Peninsula, love of the Gulf Coast brought Melanie and her husband to Crystal Beach full-time in 2004. These days, she spends a lot of time in Fort Worth with their grandbabies. Melanie’s email is melanie@wisewatt.com.

BOLIVAR PENINSULA REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS 281.639.0451 |

facebook.com/newcoastproperties

N EW C OAST P ROPERTIES.COM

DEVELOPER OF

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local. COMMUNITY

Better to give. Nowhere is that sentiment more evident than in our local community. In the spirit of the giving season, we’re highlighting seven nonprofit organizations that do great philanthropic works year-round to benefit the Bolivar Peninsula. National Family Volunteer Day is November 19, so make plans now to do your part in giving back this holiday through one or more of these notable nonprofits.

TEXAS CRAB FESTIVAL CHARITIES, INC. KEEP BOLIVAR BEAUTIFUL TEXAS FROG FEST GALVESTON BAY FOUNDATION BOLIVAR PENINSULA LIONS CLUB LITTLE WHITE CROSSES USA PENINSULA SPORTS PARK

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MISSION

It is the primary goal of Texas Crab Festival Charities (TCFC) to increase educational and career opportunities for Bolivar Peninsula residents and support local organizations that further the goal of improving the lives of the residents of Bolivar Peninsula.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tom Osten, President; Marlene Mallet, Vice President; Sid Jackson, Secretary; Tanna Kimbro, Treasurer; Gerry Lang, Community Liason; Eve Bradford; William Comeaux; Conrad Cooper; Annette Dailey; Don Kimbro; Sherry Leger; Mac McDonald; and Anne Willis PROGRAMS Learn More to Earn More: Texas Crab Festival Charities has awarded over $100,000 in scholarships. We believe in higher education opportunities for Peninsula residents of all ages, and provide grants for those individuals to attend a university, community college, trade school or accredited courses for the purpose of career improvement or enhanced employment opportunity. This program impacts not only the lives of high school students, but also helps to empower adults who are looking to continue their education. We also provide one-on-one mentorship and assist with applying for additional funding.

GED/ESL Courses: In coalition with College of the Mainland, TCFC has partnered with area educators to provide free GED preparation courses and English as a Second Language classes held at Crenshaw School.

Since 2015, six students have earned their GED with many more on track to graduate soon. Students who complete the program receive a new tablet for their studies. We are excited to bring this opportunity to Peninsula residents. For more details, email info@ tcfcharities.org.

Youth Horizons: We believe that every child on Bolivar Peninsula deserves the same educational opportunities as youth of more developed areas. That's why TCFC

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has supplied $10,000 in grants for Peninsula kids to attend summer camps. These camps promote learning and character building, and ultimately help to shape the future of the children within our community.

Peninsula ProjectWorks: TCFC has invested over $65,000 to date in our local schools, fire departments, and various community-based organizations. These funds are applied to things like assisting teachers and students with school supplies and donating CPR training dummies so local EMS can provide free ongoing CPR training to residents.

UPCOMING EVENTS Christmas Bike Drive: Continuing an 18year tradition, TCFC provides new bicycles for children of the Bolivar Peninsula at Christmastime. Bikes are purchased with donations from community individuals and sponsors. Thank you to all who make this time of year magical for our youth.

Opportunity Fair: Join us for our 2nd annual Opportunity Fair, a TCFC-sponsored event that brings college reps, industry and military professionals, and county and state agencies to Bolivar for a one-day exhibition to present educational and career opportunities.

Attendees can talk to educators about entry-level courses, trade schools, career training and financial aid, as well as visit with representatives from area businesses about job openings. This event is scheduled for February 2017.

Since 2013, TCFC has gifted over $200,000 to help support local organizations and Peninsula residents. All proceeds from the annual Texas Crab Festival are reinvested in the community and help to fund our programs and initiatives. To become a valued Texas Crab Festival sponsor, donor, or volunteer, go to texascrabfestival.org. Because of your generous support, TCFC is changing lives on Bolivar Peninsula.

For more information, visit our website at www.tcfcharities.org

www.keepbolivarbeautiful.org

MISSION

The mission of Keep Bolivar Beautiful (KBB) is to educate and engage the Bolivar Peninsula community to take responsibility for improving their environment.

FOUNDING MEMBERS Carlis Cole, President; Claudia Perkins; Brenda Flanagan; and Nelva Maxey WHO WE ARE

Keep Bolivar Beautiful is a nonprofit organization founded in 2015 by a group of volunteers who have a passion for preserving the natural beauty of Bolivar Peninsula. Our efforts help to raise awareness about the effects pollution can have on indigenous wildlife.

KBB programs improve the cleanliness of our local environment in dynamic ways. It is our hope that the improvements we make today will impact the Peninsula for many generations to come.

WHAT WE DO Beautification Trailer: Thanks to grants awarded by H-E-B/Central Market and Texas Crab Festival Charities, we are proud to introduce the KBB Beautification Trailer! It is intended for community use and comes stocked with first-aid kits, trash bags, landscaping tools, and other supplies needed to clean up our area. Look for the blue KBB trailer around the peninsula!

Monarch Waystation: In an effort to protect Monarch butterflies, earlier this year KBB and Bolivar Beach Bloomers planted a certified Monarch Waystation at Noble Carl Park in Crystal Beach. The designated habitat includes milkweeds, various nectar sources, and trees to help preserve the Monarch migration phenomenon and improve the overall appearance of the park.

Adopt-A-Beach / Adopt-A-Highway: All 27 miles of beach frontage have been adopted!

We are excited to continue this movement and are now focusing our efforts on TxDOT’s Adopt-A-Highway program. Contact Brenda Flanagan at 409-684-3377 for more info.

Photo: David Harris

Monofilament Recycling Bins: KBB has installed receptacles specifically for recycling monofilament fishing line which if not disposed of properly, can be harmful to turtles, fish, and birds. We encourage anglers to use these bins and help keep our waterways tangle-free.

Find one near you by Googling “Monofilament Recycling Bin”, or by visiting any of our bait camps or marinas.

WAYS TO HELP Join us in making an impact on our local environment! There are several ways to help support the cause of KBB: 1) VOLUNTEER. We are always looking for helping hands!

Email us at info@keepbolivarbeautiful.org for info about assisting us on an upcoming project or cleanup event. 2) DONATE. Our projects require on-going maintenance and supplies like soil, mulch, and plants. 3) MEMBERSHIP. We’re growing our membership.

Contact us for more info at 409-684-3377 or 512-656-2461.

Like us on Facebook to keep up with our progress and events, or visit www.keepbolivarbeautiful.org for more information.

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BENEFITING

www.texasfrogfest.org

MISSION

The mission of the annual Texas Frog Fest (TXFF) is to host a weekend-long entertainment venue every Memorial Weekend that showcases local and national artists for the benefit of the Lone Survivor Foundation’s retreat facility in Crystal Beach.

ABOUT TEXAS FROG FEST

Texas Frog Fest brings together the Southeast Texas community to rally behind our nation’s troops over one of America’s most patriotic holidays—Memorial Weekend—for some of our state’s greatest music. TXFF 2017 is shaping up to be even better, with an all-star musical lineup, special guest appearances, and even more ways to get involved. All proceeds from TXFF are donated to the Lone Survivor Foundation in an effort to help offset the cost of maintaining and conducting retreats at their facility in Crystal Beach.

Photo: Josie Drenner

OUR CAUSE: LONE SURVIVOR FOUNDATION

The Lone Survivor Foundation’s mission is to restore, empower, and renew hope for our wounded service members and their families through health, wellness, and therapeutic support.

The LSF all-inclusive retreat program offers a place of peace and beauty, where there is a closeknit and understanding support system. During the program, veterans are provided support for invisible injuries through psycho educational groups, Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) using the EAGALA method, as well as individual sessions focused on brief stress reduction exercises to reduce symptoms of traumatic stress and pain.

The foundation is dedicated to honoring and remembering American service members by providing unique educational, rehabilitation, recovery, and wellness opportunities to U.S. Armed Forces members, their spouses, children and caregivers.

GET INVOLVED FROG FORCE 25: Introducing our NEW annual VIP Membership, sponsored by Troop Industrial. This exciting program allows its members to contribute to the development and growth of TXFF initiatives through an on-going donation of just $25 per month. Your membership, along with helping to raise awareness about the event, will be instrumental in supporting veterans and their families as they work through the effects that combat and other traumatic events have had on their minds and bodies. Frog Force 25 members receive two (2) weekend VIP passes to TXFF 2017 and other awesome perks! For full details, visit www.TexasFrogFest.org/FF25.

Buffalo Wild Wings Dirty Frog: One of the best obstacle course mud runs is making its way to Texas Frog Fest May 27, 2017. Designed by combat vets and professional athletes, the BWW Dirty Frog incorporates unexpected obstacles (like a passenger plane!), a fun and challenging terrain, and the energy of a live DJ. Space is limited, join now at TexasFrogFest.org/bwwdirtyfrog.

Photo: Josie Drenner

Kilo 19 - A Walk to Remember: Join us on Sunday, May 28 for our second annual Kilo 19, a walk honoring the 19 service members killed in Operation Red Wings June 28, 2005. The walk, initiated by veteran Ken Meyer, also brings awareness to the 22 veterans a day who lose the fight with Post Traumatic Stress and sadly end their own lives. Register at TexasFrogFest.org/kilo19.

For more information or to sign up, visit our website at www.TexasFrogFest.org Follow the latest news about TXFF on Facebook @TexasFrogFest

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Preserving, Protecting and enhancing Galveston Bay for more than 25 years

www.galvbay.org

MISSION

The mission of the Galveston Bay Foundation is to preserve and enhance Galveston Bay as a beautiful and productive resource for generations to come.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Guy Robert Jackson, Chairman; Fred Pounds, 1st Vice Chair; Jeff Miers, 2nd Vice Chair; Jeff Myerson, Treasurer; Laurence Neuhaus, Secretary; Timothy Love, Immediate Past Chair; Directors: Monty Briscoe, James Dismukes, James Doyle, Clayton Forswall, Dale Friedrichs, Helen Lane, Madeleine Montes, Leah Oberlin, Cynthia Pickett-Stevenson, Matthew Pistner, George Pontikes, Steve Provenzano, Lawrence Rearick, Sharron Stewart, Tom Tollett, Lori Traweek, Matt Woodruff PROGRAMS/WHAT WE DO We grow Bay stewards. Our education programs provide science-based environmental education focused on Galveston Bay to thousands of students in the Houston-Galveston area.

We ensure future habitat. Our habitat restoration and protection initiatives focus on three areas - protecting vulnerable habitats from erosion or habitat conversion; restoring lost or degraded wetlands, oyster reefs, and bird rookery habitats; and removing marine debris. Many of these efforts are community-based and allow the public to have a hand in creating healthy habitats.

We help keep Galveston Bay fishable and swimmable. Our water programs provide opportunities for citizens, organizations, businesses and cities to take action so that the Bay’s water remains clean.

We work to conserve land and connect people with it. Galveston Bay Foundation is an accredited land trust and protects natural areas by acquiring real estate and partnering with landowners to establish conservation easements on private lands. We have a responsibility to steward our protected properties in a way that promotes high quality habitats and clean water for our Bay. Volunteers are encouraged to join us for “stewardship workdays” to help care for our land.

We watch over your Bay. Galveston Bay Foundation's advocacy programs keep watch on policies that affect the Bay. We review numerous projects and attend public meetings and provide public comments on Bay-related issues. The overarching goal is to encourage and actively seek solutions to conflicts among the diverse users of the Bay. GET INVOLVED! There are lots of opportunities to get involved with Galveston Bay Foundation from planting marsh grass to helping build an oyster reef! Visit www.galvbay.org for more information.

Photo: Andrew Hancock

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BOLIVAR PENINSULA

LIONS CLUB www.bplions.org

MISSION

To empower volunteers to serve their communities, meet humanitarian needs, encourage peace and promote international understanding through Lions clubs.

ABOUT LIONS

As the motto, “We Serve” suggests, the Bolivar Peninsula Lions Club is a non-profit organization that, through fundraising, pours every cent back into the community. We host three events annually whose proceeds provide school supplies to our Peninsula schools, Christmas gifts for local families in need, and scholarships for resident students.

Today’s youth need Lions more than ever. Millions of children around the world suffer from poverty, homelessness, hunger, abuse, neglect, disease and disabilities. The Bolivar Peninsula Chapter recognizes this within our own community. Through our efforts, we hope to alleviate some of the needs facing our youth and their families, and give them hope for the future.

Photo: Casey Blume

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Larry Flanagan, President; D. Franks Chambers, Vice President; Patti Grahovec, Treasurer; Annette Dailey, Secretary; and Brenda Flanagan, Membership Director WAYS WE SERVE Golf Cart Poker Run: Our annual Golf Cart Poker Run is a fun-filled event that encourages locals and visitors alike to deck out their golf carts and try for their chance at a winning hand.

Now deemed the “summertime Mardi Gras,” this event continues to grow in participation and popularity, with 2016 being the largest turnout to date. Nearly 250 carts and 600 people participated, showing their enthusiasm and support for our cause. Because of such a successful event, the Bolivar Peninsula Lions Club donated $25,000 to Crenshaw School and High Island School for supplies and other items needed. Mark your calendars for next year’s event scheduled for August 5, 2017.

Swinging For Santa Golf Tournament: Every year, the Bolivar Peninsula Lions Club hosts our Swinging for Santa Golf Tournament in which funds are raised to benefit local children and their families at Christmastime. Participation from around 40-50 golfers, plus donations, enable the Lions to provide approximately $5,000 worth of toys, clothing, and food baskets to Peninsula children and families in need during the holiday season.

Stingaree Saltwater Slam Fishing Tournament: Our organization is passionate about investing in the future of our youth. That’s why every year we host the Stingaree Saltwater Slam Fishing Tournament as a means of raising scholarship funds for resident students on the Bolivar Peninsula. Through this fundraiser, the Lions Club has gifted over $40,000 worth of scholarships in the last five years to graduating seniors from High Island School. Students interested in applying for Lions Club scholarship funds should turn in their form by April 15, 2017.

If you like hard work and giving back to the community, the Bolivar Peninsula Lions Club would love to hear from you! We meet the second Thursday of every month at 6 pm at the Crystal Beach Fire Station. Those interested may also contact Brenda Flanagan at 409-684-3377.

Learn more at www.bplions.org

Photo: Casey Blume

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Little White Crosses USA www.littlewhitecrosses.com

MISSION

The mission of Little White Crosses USA is to keep God and prayer in our communities.

We are a group of individuals who have come together to spread the love of Jesus Christ.

Our non-profit organization provides free Little White Crosses with the intent that they be displayed in lawns and at storefronts throughout America as a symbol of our love for Christ.

OUR STORY

The cross at Port Neches Riverfront Park is a prominent monument that was erected in 1969. Last November, it came under scrutiny when the Freedom From Religion Foundation contacted city officials in Port Neches, requesting that the cross be removed from the public land on which it stands, and ours is not the first town in America to fall subject to such requests.

As Christians, our group was formed to show our support by constructing little white crosses to display in our yards. The initial goal was to create a couple hundred crosses.

However, what we all saw happen was God move in an awesome way and people came from all over, not just Port Neches, that wanted a cross for their yard. People showed up just wanting to help and be a part of this movement. In no way did we ever think this would still be going so strong and the demand for crosses still so high a year later. Since then we have built, blessed, and handed out over 82,000 crosses. Little White Crosses have made their way into 43 states and 2 other counties, Canada and Mexico. Our ministry hopes to spread the word and love of God by giving out these free crosses. We think it is one of the best witnessing tools there is to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. There are now 4 other states making them and we would love to help other groups get started in making them as well.

Little White Crosses are made in the back of Summer’s Abbey Flooring Center every day that it does not rain. They can be picked up in the front of the office as well as at seven other places throughout Mid-County. On Bolivar Peninsula you can find them at the Big Store or in Ramada Subdivision.

HOW TO HELP Volunteer: Little White Crosses USA is currently in need of volunteers to construct and paint crosses. No experience is necessary. This is a great opportunity for church groups or other faith-based organizations to spread the love of God, and we welcome children’s helping hands!

Donate: If you feel moved to donate to the mission of Little White Crosses USA, your financial contributions are greatly needed and appreciated, and will help us to unite people across America who believe in standing up for God. 100% of all donations go towards lumber, paint, and screws. Visit our website at www.littlewhitecrosses.com/donate or join our group on Facebook at Little White Crosses USA for more info about how to give electronically or by mail.

Spread the Word: Help us raise awareness about the Little White Crosses USA movement by purchasing t-shirts ($10) or car decals ($5). Pick up a cross, order shirts and decals at Summer’s Abbey Flooring Center located at 3161 Nall Street in Port Neches, or call Chris Johnson at 409-718-7388 or 409-727-6469.

Join the movement by following us on Facebook @ Little White Crosses USA

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Peninsula Sports Park MISSION

To promote a safe and controlled environment to enhance athletic opportunities for the children and families of the Bolivar Peninsula.

BOARD MEMBERS Leslie Lowe, Delino Comeaux, Carmen Comeaux, Craig Ward, and Jason Warren ABOUT US

Peninsula Sports Park (PSP) is a Texas non-profit corporation currently applying for 501(3)(c) status. Founded in 2015, our organization has been working diligently over the past 18 months to fund the rebuilding of our community baseball field in Port Bolivar. At the core of our mission, it is our vision to build and maintain a clean and safe environment for the community to utilize as a practice field, tournament location, and local gathering venue for organized events.

To date, we have achieved nearly half of our $60,000 initial goal. Funds raised thus far have allowed us to remove the existing light poles and enlarge the field to Pony League specifications, survey the grounds, and haul in extra dirt for reconstruction. Soon, we will install a new fence and bleacher seating for approximately 50 people. PSP’s future plans include a concession stand, scoreboard, and additional seating, as more funds are made available.

Thanks to the ongoing support of the community and our generous sponsors, the Bolivar Peninsula Red Sox will be swinging for their own fences during next year’s baseball season!

BECOME A SPONSOR PSP offers multiple levels of sponsorship opportunities. Because of your charitable contributions, our organization can reinstate a safe and controlled environment for our area’s children and their families to enjoy for many years to come. Contact Leslie Lowe at 409-4290980 for more information about our sponsorship packages.

UPCOMING EVENTS All-Star Dinner & Auction: Join us on Saturday, November 12 for a fun evening under the stars at beautiful Laguna Harbor. Kicking off at 5pm, the night’s event includes live music from Cool Breeze, barbecue dinner, dancing, and a silent auction. Make plans to attend and help us reach our fundraising goal. Advanced tickets now available.

Photo: Tom Osten

Don’t forget to join us next year at other PSP annual events like our spring crawfish boil, summer fish fry, and Grand Slam Flounder Tournament in the fall. We witnessed a tremendous turnout at each of these events and look forward to bringing them back to the community in 2017.

Learn more about Peninsula Sports Park by joining our Facebook page, or contact Leslie Lowe at 409-429-0980 for more information.

Photo: Casey Blume

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CONSTRUCTION LOANS • LOT LOANS • MORTGAGES

We do it all!

Please contact Randy Slater to learn more about what Texas First Bank can offer you today!

2385 Highway 87 • Crystal Beach • (409) 370-9453

Supplying Bolivar Peninsula with everything under the sun!

GROCERIES • GIFTS • HARDWARE • AND MORE 2385 Hwy 87 | Crystal Beach, TX 77650 Sun-Thurs 7 AM - 9 PM | Fri-Sat 7 AM - 9:30 PM November/December 2016

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local. EVENTS

November/December Jump-start your holiday season at any of these local events taking place on the Bolivar Peninsula this winter.

COMMUNITY

Thanksgiving Fellowship November 20 / 6 PM BENEFIT

PSP All-Star Dinner and Auction November 12 / 5 PM

Join the Peninsula Sports Park organization on Saturday, November 12 for a fun evening under the stars at beautiful Laguna Harbor. Kicking off at 5pm, the night’s event includes live music from Cool Breeze, barbecue dinner, dancing, and a silent auction. Make plans to attend and help us reach our fundraising goal. Advanced tickets now available. Call Leslie Lowe at 409-429-0980 for more info.

www.facebook.com/peninsulasportspark

Sponsored by the Bolivar Peninsula Ministerial Alliance, the community is invited to attend the annual Thanksgiving Fellowship service, this year to be hosted at First Baptist Church in Crystal Beach. Finger-food and snacks to share are welcome. The event is free to attend, though we will be collecting an offering that will go to a scholarship fund for graduating seniors. Call Pastor Kaye Sims at 409-920-2070 for more details.

EVENT

Christmastide Market November 26 / 10 AM - 4 PM Gallery By The Gulf is excited to host its second annual Christmastide Market on Small Business Saturday following Thanksgiving. The market will feature local artists and craft booths, and is the perfect destination to begin your holiday shopping. Support vendors from the Bolivar Peninsula and plan to stop by the Gallery at 1980 Hwy 87 for some unique gifts that are sure to please anyone on your list.

www.bolivarfoundation.com

BENEFIT

RE/MAX Calcutta & Golf Tournament November 18-19

Join RE/MAX On The Water as they celebrate their 10th year of business on Bolivar Peninsula and commemorate the milestone with a fundraising golf tournament. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit Children's Miracle Network at Texas Children's Hospital.

Friday night's Calcutta and silent auction hosted at Tiki Beach Bar & Grill. Four man scramble on Saturday at The Ranch Golf Course. To register, contact Brenda Flanagan at 409-684-3377 or by email at remaxonthewater@att.net.

www.beachbayvacationrentals.com

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COMMUNITY

Crystaland Parade December 10 / 6 PM

Santa comes to Crystaland! Every second Saturday in December, the Bolivar Chamber of Commerce hosts a gathering for both young and old. Santa and Mrs. Claus, visiting from the North Pole, sit atop a decorated float amidst a varying theme of riders that parade down the beach for all to see. After the parade, kids are invited to have their picture taken with Santa.

A fun party not to be missed!

www.bolivarchamberofcommerce.com

Lone Star Biker Rally November 3-6, Galveston With juried bike shows, truck, Jeep & classic car shows, and free concerts on two stages, this year's Lone Star Rally will be jam packed with entertainment for all ages, day and night, all weekend long. Visit lonestarrally.com for more.

Election Day November 8 / 7 AM - 7 PM Every vote counts. Polls are open from 7 am to 7 pm at the Joe Faggard Community Center in Crystal Beach.

Early voting is available through November 4.

Lighthouse Krewe 50-60s Dance November 12 / 7 PM Come out and cut a rug with the Bolivar Peninsula Lighthouse Krewe on Saturday, November 12 at the Ships Wheel. There will be live music, plus a dance and costume contest. $10 cover, public is welcome.

Small Business Saturday November 26 Support local commerce and shop small business Saturday.

Lighthouse Krewe Christmas Dance December 3 / 7 PM Join the Lighthouse Krewe for their annual Christmas Dance/Toy Drive at Down Under on Saturday, December 3. $10 cover or bring a new unwrapped toy (per person). Proceeds from the event aid the community outreach program and children of Bolivar Peninsula.

GALVESTON BAY SAFARIS GUIDED FISHING & HUNTING • SHRIMP TOURS r Fun fo

meaux with Capt. Delino Co

s!

all age

P SHRIMS in TardOtheUBluR e Dolph Abo

2-6002

409-39

BOLIVAR YACHT BASIN BAIT CAMP

409-684-7777

4312 West Boyt Rd., Port Bolivar BAIT . FUEL . ICE . SNACKS . LOW BOAT LAUNCH FEES

G a lBylThe e ry Gulf BOLIVAR PENINSULA CULTURAL FOUNDATION

Keeping your grass

GREENER.

Christmastide marKet IN THE PARKING LOT OF

Gallery by the Gulf 1980 Hwy 87, Ste. A Upstairs, Crystal Beach, Tx 77650

local artiStS

craft boothS

Saturday, November 26th - 10am-4pm

Shop LocaL Day! Gallery by the Gulf

bolivarfouNdatioN.com

Call today for your FREE estimate

409-540-2846

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local. SCENE

Jane Long Festival PHOTOS BY TOM OSTEN, CRYSTAL BEACH LOCAL NEWS

1. Rita Moseley

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2. Leslie Sproat, Tom Rooney 3. Zechariah Turk

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4. Heather Moody, Melanie Wallace, Doug Romero 5. Marcel and Linda Elissalde, Margo Johnson

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6. Bruce Haire, The Jane Long Balladeer 7. Tom Rooney 8. Leslie Sproat 9. The Way Off Broadway Ensemble Players 10. The Cadillacs 11. Caden Moody

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sea

Posing by David Lambert David’s work is currently on display at Gallery By The Gulf in Crystal Beach

be seen

Keep Saying Good Morning by Brent Raborn

Goat Island Cattle by Debbie Deckard

Sunset Down Under by Dana Johnson

Place To Beachcomb by B Bailey

Share your LOCAL scene.

Send us photos of your favorite places, people and past times on the peninsula.

Submit high resolution (300 dpi) images to info@thebolivarlocal.com.

Promise Of A New Day by Destiny Martin

Run Away by Karen Anderson

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& Merry Christmas Love and Peace in 2017!

Mary Ellen Smith is a Broker Associate for Cobb Real Estate specializing 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.

MARY ELLEN SMITH

ePRO®, GRI, SFR®, SRES®

REPRESENTING BUYER’S INTERESTS

p. (409) 457-1070 • e. CrystalBeachBroker@att.net www.CrystalBeachResortProperties.com

A Family Owned and Operated Company Since 1986 2290 Hwy 87 • Crystal Beach, TX 77650 409.684.3790

CobbRealEstate.com

Redefining

BEACHFRONT LIVING on the Texas coast Discover the affordable luxury of Bolivar Peninsula’s exclusive new development

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