The Local Magazin - Oct/Nov/Dec 2019

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14 4 | THE LOCAL

contents OCTOBER - NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES

16 Artful Expression

by Destiny Martin

22 Beautiful Balance

by Jill Ellis-Worthington

25 The Art Scene Is Meant to Be Seen

by Grace Mathis

08 Editor’s Note 10 Events 12 Hygge Home Decor

Celebrate coziness this holiday season with these transitional must-have items

by Rachael Lindley

14 What’s Cooking

Try sausage and rice dressing stuffed pears for your next dinner party

by Carly Oubre

36 Christmas Charm Grows on a Farm

by Destiny Martin

40 Rainbow Trout Fishing in Texas

by Dave Roberts

46 Is it a Dolphin or a Porpoise?

by Scott Ray

48 Directory 50 Sea & Be Seen

THE LOCAL | 5

THE LOCAL CONNECTING YOU WITH SOUTHEAST TEXAS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Destiny Martin CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rachael Lindley Grace Mathis Carly Oubre Scott Ray Dave Roberts Jill Ellis-Worthington CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Luke Mauldin Stefan Puffer Dave Roberts John Fulbright ON THE COVER

Crusade, 2016 Oil on canvas painting by Mark Nesmith In celebration of our feature, The Art Scene Is Meant to Be Seen by Grace Mathis on page 25, we chose an oil painting by Mark Nesmith to grace the cover of this edition of The Local. Mark is an American painter and musician living in Beaumont whose work features un-peopled landscapes reminiscent of the bayous and beaches of Southeast Texas, often populated by wildlife personifying human traits. Through these characters, Mark wittily depicts issues we currently face as a society through his approach to painting.

ABOUT The Local Magazine is a locally owned and operated quarterly publication that strives to connect its readers with helpful information and inspirational stories about local individuals, businesses, and places of interest.

FOLLOW US Facebook @thebolivarlocal issuu.com/thebolivarlocal

CONTACT US To advertise in The Local Magazine, call (817) 505-8208 or email us at info@thebolivarlocal.com to request more information. News releases and story ideas to may be sent to destiny@thebolivarlocal.com.

650 MEDIA GROUP, LLC P.O. Box 1747 Crystal Beach, Texas 77650 The Local Magazine is produced by 650 Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved.

The Local is not responsible for facts represented by its authors or advertisers. No part of this publication may be used or reproduced without consent of the editor.

6 | THE LOCAL

EDITOR’S note

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8 | THE LOCAL

On the Water - Bolivar

hen I attended art school at Lamar University, it wasn’t until many years after I earned my degree that I came to truly appreciate what I learned while I was enrolled there. As art students, we were regularly tasked with assignments that at the time made no sense to me: Drawing trees on campus with twigs and ink, soldering welding rods into 3-D shapes, and cutting and glueing scraps of paper into intricate designs. Looking back, I often reflect on the impact those projects still have on my approach to design today. What I believe I learned the most is how to see the world around me in a new and unexpected way, and truly express myself. I am forever grateful for the foundation the Art Department at LU provided me, and those who nurtured an environment for creativity around me.

As Grace Mathis explains in our local Art Scene feature beginning on page 25, Beaumont is currently experiencing an art renaissance of

sorts thanks to the foundation established by institutions like the Dishman Art Museum at Lamar, and many others, as well as the up-and-coming artists who are courageously helping to shape the future of The Arts in Southeast Texas.

While you may not consider yourself an artist, I hope this issue of The Local will inspire you to express yourself in new ways this holiday season.

Maybe it’s in your approach to decorating your home (p. 12), or in preparation of a meal to share with family and friends (p. 14). Whatever this season holds, may peace, comfort and joy be yours in the days to come. Until next time, keep it local.

Destiny Martin Founder & Editor destiny@thebolivarlocal.com

THE LOCAL | 9

LOCAL EVENTS ISLAND OKTOBERFEST OCTOBER 25-26, GALVESTON Galveston’s premier fall festival—the 38th Annual Island Oktoberfest—kicks off Friday, October 25 from 5-10pm and continues Saturday, October 26 from 11 am – 10 pm. This fun, family weekend will feature continuous live entertainment on two stages, an expanded menu of authentic German food and libations, Cake Wheel, shopping for fine arts, crafts and gifts in the historic 1860 Lyceum, a lively auction, new and exciting fun children’s activities, and much more. Galveston Island Oktoberfest will be held on the grounds of and streets adjacent to First Lutheran Church in historic downtown Galveston. Admission is free and German costumes are encouraged. Island Oktoberfest is hosted by First Evangelical Lutheran Church and co-sponsored by Del Papa Distributing Company. galvestonoktoberfest.com BRAD & BIG RICH’S CAJUN CHEF’S COOKOFF OCTOBER 26, CRYSTAL BEACH Mais yeah, cher! Get ready for a good ol’ creole time at Brad and Big Rich Corville’s Cajun Chef ’s Cookoff coming to Stingaree Restaurant and Marina October 26 from 11 am - 3 pm. Cooking teams will be judged in three categories: Bloody Mary, Seafood Gumbo, and Chef ’s Choice for a chance at $1,000 cash prize, including a public tasting for the People’s Choice Award. So, make your way to Crystal Beach and experience some delectable Cajun cuisine. Live music from Jamie Bergeron from 1-3 pm. stingaree.com

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CALENDAR OCTOBER 3-5 Friends of Rosenberg Library Used Book Sale; Galveston friends.rosenberg-librar y.org 12 CT’s Texas Slam Fishing Tournament; Crystal Beach chaserightchoices.org 12 Beaumont Oktoberfest; Beaumont delpapadistributing.com 25-26 Island Oktoberfest; Galveston delpapadistributing.com 26 The BIG Store Trunk or Treat; Crystal Beach @thebigstorecr ystalbeach 26 Brad & Big Rich’s Cajun Chef Cookoff; Crystal Beach stingaree.com 26 Halloween Costume Party; Neches Brewing Company in Port Neches @nechesbrewingcompany 31-Nov3 Lone Star Rally; Galveston lonestarrally.com NOVEMBER 2 Art Walk on the Avenue; Port Neches @historicportnechesavenue 7 First Thursdays on Calder; Beaumont beaumontcvb.com 9 Peninsula Sports Park Annual Dinner and Dance; Crystal Beach @peninsulasportspark

ART WALK ON THE AVENUE NOVEMBER 2, PORT NECHES The annual Art Walk On The Avenue in Port Neches will return on Saturday, November 2 from 10 am - 4 pm with original art from local artists, food trucks, vendors, and live music.

This family-friendly event is free to the public and is hosted by Historic Port Neches Avenue in partnership with the Port Neches Chamber of Commerce. For more information or to rent a booth, contact Esther Macha at 409-549-4714. You can keep up with the event on their Facebook page at facebook.com/historicportnechesavenue

23 Brew Yoga; Neches Brewing Company in Port Neches @ nechesbrewingcompany 25 M & M Christmas Tree Farm Opens; Hamshire @m&mchristmastreefarm 30 Bolivar Christmas Festival; Crystal Beach bolivarpeninsulatexas.com DECEMBER 5 First Thursdays on Calder; Beaumont beaumontcvb.com 14 Lighthouse Krewe Christmas Dance & Toy Drive; Crystal Beach

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TEXTURED PILLOWS Velvet adds a touch of luxury and jewel tones are perfect for autumn and winter. This knitted pillow achieves another lush texture of the season, but in a neutral that blends seamlessly with richer hues. 1) Velvet Exposed Zipper Pillow – $24.99 – Dark Green (other colors available) target.com; 2) Knitted Design Throw Pillow – $27.99 – Vanilla (other colors available, price varies depending on color) target.com

hygge: IN DENMARK, where winters are long and harsh, there is a practice called hygge (pronounced hoo-gah). This is the practice of finding joy in everyday moments. Instead of loathing winter and all that comes with it, the Danish have chosen to embrace the colder months and to celebrate coziness, warmth, and family. Luckily, the winters

1

2

(hoo-gah) noun a quality of coziness found in simple things and time spent with ones you love in Southeast Texas aren’t quite as unforgiving, but it still allows for some restful time spent with loved ones. The trick to transitioning your home in the cooler months of October through December— and all of the holidays in between—is using lavish textures and materials with pops of glittering metallics to reflect the warmth of the season.

by RACHAEL LINDLEY

VOTIVES

Mercury glass creates a beautiful glittery effect that is perfect for every occasion. Mercury Glass Votive Holders – Set of 5 – $29, ballarddesigns.com

METAL LOG HOLDER

Practicality meets chic Scandinavian design with this log holder. 20”x14” Metal Log Holder – Black $49.99, target.com

12 | THE LOCAL

TRAY

Place this tray on a coffee table with some pillar candles. When the candles are lit the reflection will create a further sense of warmth. Lynn Brass & Mirror Tray - $49, potterybarn.com

LADDER

Fold your blankets on this ladder for a unique and attractive storage solution. Black Eucalyptus Ladder – $99, worldmarket.com

VASE

Throw some eucalyptus in this vase for a cold weather, easy arrangement.

Spin Large Glass Hurricane Candle Holder/Vase – $34.95, crateandbarrel.com

THROWS

These plaid throws are a beautiful way to add some pattern and warmth to your space! Buffalo Check Throw – $49 – Gray or Red potterybarn.com

Rachael Lindley is a freelance writer from Fort Worth who frequently spends time in Southeast Texas visiting her family. When she isn’t writing about home decor, you can find her curled up with a strong cup of coffee with her husband and two dogs.

THE LOCAL | 13

what’s cooking

Mixing seasonal favorites in one, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for holiday entertaining

recipe by Carly Oubre of Chic Chef Catering photos by Luke Mauldin

14 | THE LOCAL

SAUSAGE & RICE DRESSING STUFFED PEARS WITH SPICY SWEET GLAZE INGREDIENTS 6 pears, ripe but firm 1 lb prepared rice dressing 1 lb smoked sausage 1 cup chopped yellow onion ½ cup chopped celery ½ cup chopped green bell pepper ½ cup chopped green onion ½ stick unsalted butter 1 cup chicken stock ¼ cup olive oil ½ cup cane syrup ½ cup pepper jelly ¼ cup hot sauce salt, pepper and Cajun seasoning to taste 1. Make the stuffing: Let the rice dressing come to room temperature. Cut sausage lengthwise and then slice in 3/8” slices. Preheat cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and saute until it has browned, then remove from skillet. Add butter, and saute on medium heat: onion, bell pepper, celery, and green onion until translucent. Add chicken stock, bring to a boil, and stir in rice dressing. Season to taste with your favorite Cajun seasoning blend. Add sausage back to skillet and stir to combine.

2. Roast the pears: Preheat grill or grill plate. Rinse pears and cut in half lengthwise.

Using a melon baller, remove the seeds and create a cavity for the stuffing. Brush the pears with a light coat of olive oil on the flat side and season with salt and pepper.

Grill the pear halves, flat side down, for 3-5 minutes or until grill marks form. Remove from grill.

3. Preheat oven to 350° F. Spoon a portion of the sausage-rice mixture into the middle of each pear, placing them in a baking dish as you work. Warm the stuffed pears in the preheated oven until internal temperature reaches 165° F. 4. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, add the cane syrup, pepper jelly, and hot sauce. Heat on low, stirring occasionally until well combined.

5. To serve, remove pears from oven and drizzle with desired amount of glaze.

Chef’s Note: Elevate this dish by pairing it with a seasonal Oktoberfest Märzen-style beer or crisp German Riesling.

THE LOCAL | 15

Artful

EXPRESSION A home by the sea gets playfully re-imagined as a family gathering place

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by DESTINY MARTIN • photos by LUKE MAULDIN

When I first walked into this house, I immediately fell in love,” says Susan Simmons, who

decided two years ago it was time to buy a beach home for her growing family. “We’ve been coming here for over forty years,” she recalls of the time she has spent on the Bolivar Peninsula. “There is just something magical about this place.”

A self-proclaimed beach lover and grandmother of seven, Susan says there’s an inherent sense of wonder the coast provides that she wants to share with her family when they come to visit. So when she purchased the 3,066 square-foot house in Crystal Beach she calls Que Sera Sera, she asked for help from Dayton artist Kelsey Conner and Elizabeth Beausoleil of Vintage Lemon to add a few extra whimsical details to her vacation home.

Going Up Susan Simmons in her home’s elevator painted to resemble the interior of a submarine.

THE LOCAL | 17

Pumpkin’s Playground In the summer, Susan’s beach home becomes a playground for her and her seven grandkids who live in various cities around the world. “They come and stay a week or two. We call it Pumpkin’s Summer Camp – they call me Pumpkin! We do all sorts of fun things, like hunt for beach treasures, do arts & crafts projects, and have slumber parties.”

Below: A vintage table gets a make-over by Susan’s grandchildren who have added paint and pieces of found tile to its top.

Knob Wall A whimsical feature wall the family calls the Knob Wall, invites house guests to casually hang up their belongings, such as hats, beach towels, totes, and more.

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Under the Sea After moving in, Susan called on the help of local craftsman Bill Palmer to convert an oblong bunkroom on the home’s first floor into two private bedrooms accessed by a newly added hallway. Susan came up with the idea to create a lively underwater scene to brighten the long stretch of corridor, complete with circling hammerhead sharks, a yellow submarine, and a scuba diver.

Painted by Kelsey Conner.

Slumber Party In the master bedroom, a king size bed plus an additional day bed with trundle provide enough space for all of Susan’s grandkids to spend the night together. “We enjoy staying up late, dancing, and telling stories,” she says. “It’s the type of place I’ve always imagined sharing with my family.” TL

Beach Ready A sunny yellow armoire near the home’s entrance displays items to grab on your way to the beach like sunscreen and beach towels, while glass vases atop hold the family’s collection of assorted treasures—from beach glass to scrap tiles, sea shells to driftwood.

THE LOCAL | 19

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THE LOCAL | 21

Beautiful B ALANCE

by JILL ELLIS-WORTHINGTON • photos courtesy of REB-L CREATIVE

BECCA LAURENT Jewelry Designer & Owner of Reb-L Creative Follow @reb-lcreative

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A LOVE OF FOOTBALL AND A HUNGER to channel her innate creativity birthed Rebecca Laurent’s jewelry business, REB-L Creative, three years ago. Since then she’s also birthed twins—now two-years old —so having the flexibility of working for herself is even more important now.

Based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Laurent graduated from Louisiana State University in 2012 and wanted to continue to celebrate her enthusiasm for the gridiron through her jewelry. She majored in fashion merchandising and first tried her hand at making and selling dresses but that proved too complicated. As Laurent explains, “Jewelry fits everybody” and every body.

Starting out with her signature tassel hoop earrings in LSU’s purple and gold, Laurent quickly moved to other school’s color combinations and now has a whole array of football-friendly earrings. She says the demand for these ramps up at the beginning of August each year. She has colors representative of many universities in Texas, including the University of Texas Longhorns, Texas A&M Aggies and the Texas Christian University Horn Frogs.

A personal favorite and always in demand by customers is one of her first designs – the rainbow tassel hoop. “They are just fun!” says Laurent, and though she’s made thousands of them, she still loves this style. “There’s so much bad stuff in the world right now, so let’s just have some good, clean fun with colorful, big earrings.”

Mardi Gras-themed earrings—sporting traditional green, gold and purple—have proven popular for online sales and in boutiques in Louisiana, as well as the pop-up shops she does in New Orleans.

With a growing online presence and a following of fans known as the #KrewDeREBL, Laurent designs and assembles each set of earrings.

In the run up to Mardi Gras last year, she made 2,500 pairs of earrings between Christmas and the end of February. Her overall sales have grown from “around 14 orders the first year, to 400 the next year to 1,700 last year (2018),” explains Laurent. That’s just sales from her website and doesn’t include the 10 to 20 (numbers vary seasonally) boutiques to which she wholesales.

In Beaumont, REB-L is featured at Bungalow Boutique. Owner Brittney Morgan is enthusiastic and has been carrying the REB-L line since she opened three years ago. “Customers just love that they are fun and affordable. They are large statement earrings but so lightweight,”

REBL Original Tassel Hoops in Rainbow, $30; Shop the full Reb-L Creative Collection at reb-lcreative.com

she says. “They don’t just have one pair.

They buy one and come back for many more because they love them so much.”

Morgan appreciates that Laurent is always creating new looks. Laurent adds new styles seasonally and loves designing new earrings but won’t keep them in her lineup if she doesn’t like them herself.

“I’ll make a new pair and wear them, but if I don’t love them still after a week or so, they have to go. I won’t carry styles I wouldn’t wear myself.”

The tassel earrings she started with are still very popular but Laurent has moved into making metallic and beaded designs.

The jewelry maker draws inspiration for the finished product from the materials she’s using to make them. “Sometimes it’s the metals or beads that I really like and I try putting them together.”

As fun and friendly as her earrings are, the busy mom of Baudry (Beau) and Vivienne (Viv) says she enjoys the social aspect of her business, selling at pop-ups, and meeting her happy customers. “I just love it when people message me and say ‘I wore your earrings today and got so many compliments.’ Making their day like that really makes my day,” she enthuses. TL

Jill Ellis-Worthington is a travel writer who conveys the essence of a locale, while uncovering hidden gems where others see the mundane. Having worked in the publishing industry for over 30 years, Jill has maintained her inquisitiveness and sense of wonder for travel. Contact her through writeoncommunicationservices.com

THE LOCAL | 23

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ART SCENE

is meant to be seen

by GRACE MATHIS

O

ver the past several years, a surprising art renaissance of sorts has been gaining strength in Southeast Texas. While the epicenter is located in Beaumont, surrounding areas are also seeing increased interest in visual arts and relevant events.

From the practicing artists, to the best places to see art, to the happenings, to the institutions who have led the way and those that are the new kids on the block, here’s our guide for those who appreciate visual stimulation.

Photo by Luke Mauldin

THE LOCAL | 25

The Foundation and The Future

These institutions, businesses, and organizations have helped make the art scene in Southeast Texas what it is today.

Some have paved the way and others are going where no artist in Southeast Texas has gone before.

THE BEAUMONT ART LEAGUE. Founded in 1943, the Beaumont Art League (BAL) is a non-profit organization that provides a space for artists to show their work.

Memberships provide the bulk of income that allows for activities including juried competitions, classes, and workshops for the community. The monthly shows range from Landscapes and Seascapes to solo exhibits to the annual Neches River Festival exhibit. November 2019 will be the Faye Nelson Show and December 2019 will be the Holiday Craft Fair. beaumontartleague.com 26 | THE LOCAL

THE ART STUDIO. Since December 1983,

The Art Studio Inc. (TASI) has supported artists through studio space, exhibits, and fellowship with the community at large. Tenant artists rent space for film photography, painting, sculpture, and clay work. The events and opportunities at TASI include the annual Beaux Arts Ball, adult clay classes, life drawing the first and third Wednesday of each month, children’s summer camps, and Band Nite.

Members receive The Issue, a monthly newsletter highlighting local and regional art happenings, as well as the inner workings of the studio. artstudio.org THE ART MUSEUM OF SOUTHEAST

TEXAS. Far from a stale, cold museum, the

Art Museum of Southeast Texas (AMSET) hosts a wide array of activities that can appeal to literally any person of any age.

Look for Family Arts Days, Lecture series, workshops such as the Comic Boot Camp, art opening receptions, Cafe Arts series

featuring local artists, the Monster Mash, a Book Club, and the Christmas Tree Lighting on December 5 with activities for the kids. amset.org THE DISHMAN ART MUSEUM. Located on the Lamar University campus, the Dishman hosts monthly exhibits highlighting student, faculty, and international artists. Le Grand Bal, one of the hottest art fundraisers of the year, raises money for Lamar’s fine arts programs and begins at the Dishman with an art auction. The Dishman is open to the public Monday through Friday, 8 am 5 pm. dishmanart@lamar.edu THE STARK MUSEUM OF ART. Renowned for its collection of Western art, the Stark Museum of Art in Orange is supported by the Stark Foundation. Currently on display until January 4, 2020, the exhibit entitled Conservation Art: Federal Duck Stamps & Prints showcases stamps and prints from the Federal Duck Stamp

PHOTO ON THIS PAGE BY W ILL FRANCE; OPPOSITE PAGE BY LUKE MAULDIN

The Stark Museum of Art in Orange

Downtown Mural at the Beaumont Civic Center

program that began in 1934. The activities calendar is full of opportunities including family days, adult workshops, and classes for kids. starkculturalvenues.org/ starkmuseum THE MUSIC STUDIO. The Music Studio, in the historic Kyle Building in Downtown Beaumont, started as a place for private music lessons and has expanded to feature opportunities for artists of all kinds.

Group and individual art shows occur a few times a year, and several practicing artists hold space there. The New Orleans on Orleans Festival has occurred for the past six years around Mardi Gras time and allows the community to peruse the offerings of local artists and get a taste of a New Orleans-style street festival. facebook.com/themusicstudio THE MONT. The Mont Creative Studios is a multidisciplinary creative space also 28 | THE LOCAL

located in the Kyle Building. Previously a contemporary art gallery and studio known as 215 Orleans, The Mont currently consists of Maurice Abelman, Kevin Clay, and Angie Fuller. Maurice and Kevin offer a variety of services ranging from branding to graphic design to web development. Angie Fuller Portraits uses the space as a photo studio. In time, The Mont hopes to provide educational and creative workshops, gallery showings, and other outside-the-box ideas to benefit the community. facebook.com/ themontcreativestudios THE MARIGOLD COLLECTIVE. When Amy Leifeste returned from a year living in California, she recognized an empty space for creatives like herself to get together, inspire, and support each other.

So she began The Marigold Collective.

The goal of the self-funded collective is to

help artists start and grow a business or interested individuals find a new hobby.

Currently the collective is hosting creative classes, such as a graphic arts class taught

by Anna Moreno, or the macrame plant hanger class taught by Bri Thrailkille of Loop + Twine. Future plans include market days and an online pop-up store. facebook.com/themarigoldcollective

Go See

There are a variety of non-conventional ways to view art in Beaumont. Get out your Google Maps and get lookin’.

CITY OF BEAUMONT ELECTRIC BOXES.

This beautification project has exploded in popularity, with a waiting list of individuals eager to leave their mark.

Links on the City of Beaumont Art Project page will bring you to the box locations.

ELECTRIC BOXES AND TACOS LA BAMBA PHOTOGRAPHED BY LUKE MAULDIN; WINDOW ART COURTESY OF BETTY SMITH CREATIVE WORKS

City of Beaumont Electric Boxes

Tacos La Bamba

Betty Smith

DOWNTOWN MURALS. From a mermaid

to Frida to tall white birds, these murals are a sight to behold. Keep your eyes peeled for more to come.

LOCAL BUSINESSES. Tacos la Bamba, Logon Cafe, Gather: Paleo Cafe and Market, Down to Earth in the Mildred Building, and Mod Hair Factory are all locally owned establishments that feature the work of local artists.

The Events

More and more opportunities are arising for Southeast Texans to see, experience, and purchase art.

JEFFERSON THEATRE. Over the past several years, this historic venue has come back to life. Art exhibits in the lobby occur at a variety of events, including concerts and movies.

THE EVENT CENTER. The City of

Beaumont utilizes this state-of-the-art facility for everything from Jazz at the Lake to salsa dancing to the Beaumont Craft Beer Fest. Local artists are invited to showcase their work during many of these events.

PORT NECHES ART WALK ON THE AVENUE. On November 2, from 10 am

- 4 pm, artists and crafters will sell their wares in Downtown Port Neches during the 5th Annual Art Walk on the Avenue.

Free of charge, there is also a food court, live music, and a kid zone.

ART SHOW AT STEVE’S LANDING. Put on by the Bolivar Peninsular Cultural Foundation, this event happens in the spring and fall. Expect vendors with all types of crafts and artwork, as well as live music. Food can be purchased at the restaurant upstairs and Steve’s Landing opens their downstairs bar to sell beer and

wine. Free admission.

FIRST THURSDAY ON CALDER. On the first Thursday of every month on Calder Avenue in Old Town Beaumont, businesses and eateries stay open late and feature special activities. Burns Antik Haus hosts artists Ines Alvidres and Joey Blazek; artists and vendors line up outside the Mildred Building; and Finders Fayre holds its Contemporary Local Artist Show Series (CLASS).

The Artists

Meet a few of the creators who are active in the visual arts in Southeast Texas.

BETTY SMITH, PAINTER. For the past seven years, Betty has made a living as a working artist. Her thriving window art business keeps local businesses attracting customers and making Southeast Texas a little more cheerful. As well, Betty creates THE LOCAL | 29

30 | THE LOCAL

Ines Alvidres

John Alexander

Calvin Carter

Presley Landry

VARIOUS PHOTOS PROVIDED COURTESY OF THE ARTISTS

canvas artwork in her studio space at The Art Studio, Inc. These works can be seen in local exhibitions, as well as for sale on social media. Betty has added her distinctive style to an electric box as well as a gorgeous mural in Downtown Beaumont. She is preparing for her “Winter Blitz” from December 1-5. Local businesses need to contact her well in advance to be added to her holiday window schedule.

INES ALVIDRES, PAINTER. Bright and colorful, the work of Ines Alvidres is friendly abstract, straight from the heart.

She has exhibited her work at The Victoria House, Finders Fayre, and The Cafe at The Art Museum of Southeast Texas, among other locales. You can currently find her pieces at J. Wilson’s, The Art Museum of Southeast Texas gift shop, First Thursdays at Burns Antik Haus, The Lakeside Center, Down to Earth in the Mildred Building, and various city events at The Jefferson Theatre and The Event Centre. Ines was the first participant in the electric box venture and has completed four in all.

JOHN ALEXANDER, POTTER AND SCULPTOR. John produces a combination of functional and decorative pottery, as well as sculpture. He began working with clay ten years ago as an apprentice at The Art Studio Inc. under Greg Busceme Sr. Now he owns and operates J. Alexander Pottery Co., his own studio and gallery, at 810 North MLK Jr. Parkway. John will host an exhibition of his work at his gallery in November. As well, he is preparing to teach clay classes, in order to promote this beautiful medium within his community.

JOHN COBB, PAINTER. Specializing in oil on canvas classical portraiture, John has worked as a professional freelance artist for 23 years. While he focuses on producing consistently timeless work for his clients, he also appreciates the opportunity to do what he loves while providing for his family. Inspired by the beauty in the nature of Southeast Texas, he is currently working on a series of plein air landscape oil paintings.

CALVIN CARTER, PAINTER. Calvin successfully balances fatherhood, teaching at PN-G high school, and a successful art career. His Western-style art portrays the everyday life of Native Americans in the 1860’s through 1880’s. He also creates wildlife art, with four of his pieces being utilized for the Texas hunting and fishing stamp program and two for the Texas chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association.

In 2019, three of his pieces were selected for the Bosque Art Classic art show in Clifton, Texas; and two of his pieces are included in the 34th Annual Juried American Plains Artists’ Show at the Pearce Museum of Navarro College in Corsicana, through January 4, 2020.

PRESLEY LANDRY, PAINTER AND MIXED MEDIA ARTIST. With heavy influences from the Mid-Century Modern design

John Cobb

Barbara Fregia

Craig Odle

Jorge Valencia

The Texas Commission on the Arts recently approved the Downtown Beaumont Cultural Arts District. One of three cultural districts receiving the designation in Texas in 2019, the proclamation event will be hosted downtown on Sunday, October 26.

movement, Presley Landry’s art defies her young age. Both her visual wall pieces and her hand-painted clothing, as well as her personal aesthetic, harken back to the 1960’s and 70’s. She has participated in group and solo exhibitions, and recently opened her Etsy shop. Find her and her cheeky creations on November 2 at the 5th Annual Art Walk on the Avenue in Port Neches.

CRAIG ODLE, PAINTER. Craig’s acrylic paintings on canvas appear to be the lovechild of pop-surrealism and folk art.

Through his quirky and often humorous style, he expresses tongue-in-cheek observations on everything from family to modern culture to dreams. Craig is currently focusing on showing his work as much as possible. Enjoy his current solo exhibit at The Art Museum of Southeast Texas Cafe Arts Series for Local Artists through November 17.

BARBARA FREGIA, PAINTER. Barbara has been an artist and teacher for 45 years. While most of her work is traditional, she is currently creating a 4’ by 6’ abstract piece for an antique shop in Beaumont. In her studio space at The Music Studio, she paints, sells her artwork, and offers art classes and lessons. With her decades of experience and success, Barbara hopes to encourage and mentor younger artists who are just beginning their artistic journey.

JORGE VENTURA, PHOTOGRAPHER. With Jorge behind the lens, you can be sure that the resulting photograph will be dynamic, evocative, and colorful. He started with a point and shoot camera at age fourteen and has been experimenting with photography for the past ten years.

Jorge hopes to one day work for a magazine like PAPER and own a studio in a big city. In the meantime, book him for an unforgettable, one-of-a-kind editorial style portrait session.

MARK NESMITH, PAINTER. The work of Mark Nesmith conveys the richness of Southeast Texas nature through his use of vibrant color and texture and mimics the unique personality of the region through his humorous tone. He has exhibited at galleries around the country including H Gallery in California, Davis Gallery in Austin, and Third Coast Gallery in Galveston. Mark is the current president of the Texas Artists Museum in Port Arthur and is planning the first show there since Hurricane Harvey. He is also planning a show at the Longview Museum of Fine Art in 2021-22. He recently licensed paintings to iCanvas that are now available online as prints. TL Grace Mathis is a freelance writer based in Beaumont, Texas. She enjoys eating all kinds of food (especially Mexican), drinking (craft beer is tops), dancing (to anything), and participating in the local arts scene. Her passion for supporting the rich culture of Southeast Texas motivates her writing.

Mark Nesmith

THE LOCAL | 31

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Day of the Dead + Halloween

MERRY & BRIGHT How to incorporate beer into your holidays

THE HOLIDAY SEASON is creeping up fast. Whether it’s a gift exchange, a gathering with friends, or you are hosting this year’s family meal, you can stand out at any occasion with the right beer! With so many seasonal and traditional beers, it may be hard to know where to start when stocking the fridge for seasons full of fun.

From your neighbor’s annual Halloween party to Christmas at the beach with the family, be prepared with a beverage that will compliment all occasions.

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Whether celebrating the life of loved ones or creating Halloween traditions with friends, the right beer can enrich the heritage of these fall holidays and compliment a large bucket of candy.

Negra Modelo. Día de los Muertos is a

tradition of spirit of culture. The belief that death is part of the cycle of life eliminates a fear of dying. The annual reunion with the souls of loved ones offers reason for dancing and celebration, rather than mourning. Steeped in Mexican tradition and culture, celabra la vida with Modelo this Día de los Muertos. Modelo can help you bring your celebration to life through traditional food and drink of Mexico. The Day of the Dead is a time to eat, drink and enjoy life. Enrich your Día de los Muertos celebration with Modelo.

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Oktoberfest. As summer’s harvest

comes to an end, it’s time to stock up on your summer favorites. Just like summer, Oktoberfest season won’t be here forever, so stock up on your favorite seasonal brews. While most Oktoberfest brews hit the market in August, we recommend stocking up to enjoy them when the weather starts to cool down. Del Papa Distributing Company and 2-Row Distributing offer a portfolio that includes hyper-local, local, national, and import Oktoberfest beers. Keep an eye out for a few of our favorites: Galveston Island Brewing’s Oktoberfest, Galveston, TX; Saint Arnold Brewing Company Oktoberfest, Houston, TX; Karbach Brewing Company Karbachtoberfest, Houston, TX; Sierra Nevada Brewing Company Oktoberfest, Chico, CA; and Paulaner Brewing’s Oktoberfest from Munich, Germany.

Saint Arnold Pumpkinator.

Pumpkinator is a big, dark beer full

of spice and full of flavor. Originally released in 2009 as Divine Reserve No. 9, it is an imperial pumpkin stout and our answer to how a pumpkin beer ought to taste. It is brewed with a combination of pale two row, caramel and black malts, Cascade and Liberty hops for a background hop flavor, pumpkin for a rich mouthfeel, molasses, brown sugar, spices and dryspiced to make it feel like you just walked into your mom’s kitchen while she was cooking 37 pumpkin pies. It is the most expensive beer we have brewed. A single batch of Pumpkinator will be released around October 15. It is available in 22-ounce bottles and on draft.

This beer is best enjoyed at 50°F or warmer to bring out the spices and round body. From a flavor standpoint, it is the perfect way to end to a Thanksgiving meal. Some have said it makes relatives more enjoyable too!

Thanksgiving Food Pairings Don’t let wine get between you and a delicious Thanksgiving meal. Create your very own beer and food pairing that is sure to impress even the mother-in-law.

Saint Arnold Guten Tag served with traditional turkey. Guten Tag is a

traditional Bavarian-style lager with a crisp and clean flavor. The malt provides a nice toasty and bready complexity through the

THE LOCAL | 33

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use of decoction, while the hops are restrained to allow a soft and elegant finish. It was originally released in the fall of 2017 as a part of our Icon series. It became a fan favorite, and is now back for good. The bready nature makes it an excellent partner to soak up the flavor in your Thanksgiving bird.

Christmas Traditions No more walking aimlessly around a store looking for the perfect white elephant gift, stocking stuffer, or holiday find. Give them what they really want and what they may not even know that they’ve been missing. These holiday favorites and classics are foolproof.

Karbach Yule Shoot Your Eye Out. Saint Arnold Christmas Ale and pumpkin pie. A rich, copper

colored, hearty ale perfect for the holiday season with a malty sweetness and spicy hop character.

The generous use of five different malts is responsible for the full flavor of this beer. The malt and spice nature of this brew make it the perfect complement to the classic Pumpkin Pie. Galveston Island Pit Pat goes great with dessert. A slightly sweet

porter with a creamy peanut butter and chocolate finish, Pit Pat is almost a dessert in itself! But also pairs well with anything chocolate.

34 | THE LOCAL

Just like the old man’s “major award,” this seasonal red ale will light up the neighborhood. Loaded with smooth caramel malt and a citrus twist, we triple-dog dare you to find a better holiday ale. Ohhhh fuuudge, it’s only here for a limited time! Available late October-December, this brew best pairs with cookies, pie, and family.

Stella Artois. Did you know Stella

Artois was originally brewed for the holidays? The Artois Brewery was so beloved internationally and locally, a special batch brew was created as a Christmas gift to the people of Leuven, Belgium. That special batch was the first to officially include “Stella” in its name.

“Stella”, meaning star in Latin, pays

homage to this original occasion, accompanied by a star on every bottle. Today, the best way to spread holiday cheer, is still with a holiday “Cheers!” from Stella Artois.

Budweiser Holiday Stein Cans.

A traditional spin on this classic, for the first time, Budweiser will be available in limited edition collector style cans! Each holiday package will contain a mix of four unique can designs inspired by Holiday Steins featuring the famous Budweiser Clydesdales. This gift is perfect for the collector, history buff, and Bud Man! Sierra Nevada Celebration. The

start of Celebration season is a festive event. Once the first fresh hops arrive from harvest, the party begins! Sierra Nevada first brewed Celebration in 1981, blazing the path for Americanstyle IPAs and offering a new take on holiday beers, which are often spiced and sweet. Famous for its citrus and pine aromas, Celebration is bold and intense, featuring Cascade, Centennial and Chinook hops. TL DelPapaDistributing.com

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THE LOCAL | 35

M&M

Christmas Charm G R O W S O N A FA R M story and photos by DESTINY MARTIN

CHRISTMASTIME IS MAGICAL, and so many of our holiday traditions revolve around the beloved Christmas tree. If you’re the type that likes to keep it real (your tree, that is!), then you’d probably argue that nothing quite welcomes Christmas like the smell of fresh pine in your home. Even if you typically go faux, this year why not consider creating a new family tradition by visiting M&M Christmas Tree Farm to handpick and cut down your very own tree, Hallmark Channel-style!

Gabe Urbina and his wife Haley began planting Christmas trees on their 14-acre homesite in Hamshire, Texas four years ago after buying the property from Haley’s grandmother. “My grandfather farmed this land,” Haley recalls. “I believe he may have even planted a few Christmas trees here,” she laughs.

The couple says they got the idea after visiting another tree farm to pick out the perfect tree for their first Christmas in their new home. “Haley joked with me when we pulled up in our driveway to unload the tree, and said, ‘You know, we could plant a few Christmas trees here ourselves,’” Gabe says. “That got me thinking; it might be a good way for us to put our girls through college.”

With two young daughters, Mallory (age 10) and Madison (age 7), the idea of planting a few Christmas trees began to grow into a full-time family operation. In the first season, Gabe planted 1,100 seedlings, which he explains generally take four years to mature into a harvestable tree. Every year since then, he’s added a thousand more trees to the crop. Most days, their daughters share in

36 | THE LOCAL

the responsibilities of helping to maintain the tree farm. “It teaches them the value of hard work, and to appreciate the work we have,” Gabe adds. “I’m very proud.”

As you walk through the rows of pines at M&M Christmas Tree Farm, it’s clear that no two trees are the same. They mostly grow Virginia Pines and Loblollies that come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and in two more years their crop of the hypoallergenic Leyland Cypress will be ready for harvesting. “I spend most of my days staring at trees now,” Gabe chuckles. “It’s funny how I know each of them, and they each have their own unique character.” Anticipating that the customer’s idea of the “best” Christmas tree will vary, Gabe says he tries to keep a variety of styles in mind when trimming and shaping them.

Beginning the week of Thanksgiving, M&M Christmas Tree Farm will be open to the public.

Through December 1, their hours of operation are 9 am to 5 pm. December 5-19, they will be open on Thursdays and Fridays 2-5 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 am to 5 pm. Visit their Facebook page for updates and more information. Also on site is Gabe’s charming workshop turned storefront where visitors will be able to purchase Christmas tree accessories and other hand-made gifts.

Here on the farm, surrounded by thousands of Christmas trees, there’s a sense of serenity that can’t be found at just any big box store. Bypass the hustle and bustle, and start your holiday season off right at M&M Christmas Tree Farm. It’s sure to be a unique experience for you and your family, and that in itself is a gift. TL

Farmer’s Tip:

If your real tree starts to lose its smell after a while, break off the tips of a few branches at their ends. This helps to release the tree’s natural oils and reinvigorates its aroma.

GET THERE M & M Christmas Tree Farm 13602 Powers Road Hamshire, TX 77622 Closed Thanksgiving Day

Professional photography inquiries may be made by calling 409-658-9945.

THE LOCAL | 37

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38 | THE LOCAL

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Outdoors |

EXPLORING THE TEXAS GULF COAST

|

Say Ahh Did you know that brown pelicans dive head first for their prey from as high as 60’ above water? They’re also not afraid to ask for a hand out. So if you’re out fishing along the coastal waters don’t freak out if a brown pelican approaches you for a free meal. Toss him or her a mullet if you’ve got one.

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPH BY STEFAN PUFFER

THE LOCAL | 39

outdoors

Fishing

IN TEXAS

WHEN IT COMES TO LIVING in Texas, and the topic of trout fishing comes up, more times than not, the conversation revolves around speckled trout. Since they thrive in our salty waters, rarely do you ever hear local anglers discuss the speckled trout’s mountain cousin, the rainbow trout.

You may think you can only catch rainbow trout in the rivers and streams of the mid-west, but believe it or not, you’re a lot closer to these cold-water fish than you know.

For the past forty years, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department has implemented a program that annually stocks rainbow trout in public waters across the state. Since these fish need cold water to survive, stocking generally takes place during the winter months, from December through February.

Rivers such as the Guadalupe, Frio, Llano, Trinity, and Paluxy are all listed on the TPWD rainbow trout stocking schedule. Due to these waterways’ cooler water temperatures, rainbows can survive longer, even during the summer months, and the program allows outdoor enthusiasts to catch a different species of fish.

In addition to the rivers, there are several other state parks, community fishing lakes, and ponds across Texas that get stocked with several hundred thousand rainbow trout. By popularity, the Guadalupe River is probably the largest and most well-known site, but locally you can visit the LNVA barrier 40 | THE LOCAL

PHOTO ON THIS PAGE BY KEVIN CASS; OPPOSITE BY DAVE ROBERTS

by DAVE ROBERTS

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Algoa League City Baycli Kemah Bolivar Peninsula Hamshire-Fannett Labelle Winnie Sabine Pass

TOP PHOTO BY DAVE ROBERTS, RIGHT BY STEVEN SMITH

outdoors

ponds in Beaumont and Doornbos Park in Nederland. There are also many places in and around Houston.

For more information about the stocking schedule and a complete list of locations, visit tpwd.texas.gov.

When it’s time to load up and go, you don’t need much to wet a hook and have fun. A $5 freshwater stamp is required unless you are inside a state park, in which case a license or stamp is not required. Also, if you are 17 years or younger, a fishing license is not required.

In my experience, when it comes to catching trout in ponds, a simple set up is all you need. Since the fish tend to be smaller, light tackle works best. I typically use a lightweight monofilament line, anywhere from 4-10 pound test. There are several different ways, but I have found that a Carolina rig is effective, nothing heavier than a 1/8-ounce. You are also going to need a fairly small hook. Your typical perch hooks will do. For bait, most people buy a can of whole kernel corn and use 2-3 kernels at a time.

One of my first outings at a very young age, my father and I learned from an older gentleman that he preferred to use mini marshmallows. His reasoning was because marshmallows float and stay out of the grass so trout can

find his bait better. I can now attest that mini marshmallows do work for catching rainbow trout! This type of fishing is perfect for kids and is an affordable way for the whole family to have fun.

For those who want to take rainbow fishing a little more serious, fly fishing on the tail waters of the Guadalupe River is a perfect opportunity for a weekend fishing trip in winter. Last year, my buddy and I loaded our kayaks and headed north to float the river and fish. We would paddle to a set of rapids, pull our kayaks up on the bank, and fish the whitewater.

After a while, we would continue down the river and repeat the process.

We caught a few trout during our three days there and saw several

more landed. It was a great way to experience fishing in the off-season without having to be too far from home.

Colder months will be here soon, and the stocking of rainbow trout will begin. Head to the Texas Parks and Wildlife’s website and check out the list where trout stocking will take place near you. Load up the family and head to a state park, and you’ll surely have a load of fun catching rainbow trout in Texas! 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 texaskayakchronicles.com

THE LOCAL | 43

outdoors

SAVE THE SEA TURTLES Volunteers spring into action on Bolivar Peninsula, scouting one of the world’s most critically endangered species

44 | THE LOCAL

THIS PHOTO BY KORRADOL YAMSATTHAM

Sea turtles are fascinating creatures, and they desperately need our help. Did you know that the state sea turtle of Texas, the Kemp’s ridley, is a critically endangered species that currently faces near extinction? Thanks to environmental organizations like Turtle Island Restoration Network (TIRN) and its dedicated volunteers, the Kemp’s ridley as well as other marine wildlife have a higher chance of not only surviving but thriving in their natural habitats through preservation efforts like seasonal sea turtle nest patrols in partnership with Texas A&M University at Galveston.

“This summer, three Kemp’s ridley nests were found on Bolivar Peninsula,” says Theresa Morris, Coordinator of the TIRN’s Gulf Coast Program. Reportedly 190 nests were found state-wide on the Texas coast. “We are very encouraged by these numbers, but heading into next year’s nesting season, we hope to increase our local volunteer base for daily patrolling activities.”

It is the mission of Turtle Island Restoration Network to mobilize people in local communities around the world to protect marine wildlife and the oceans and inland watersheds that sustain them.

DID YOU KNOW? When a female is ready to lay eggs, around 20-30 years of age, she returns to the nesting beach where she was born, even if she has not been there for 30 years!

According to NOAA, the Kemp’s ridley is the only sea turtle that nests predominantly during daylight hours.

Their nesting season begins in early April and runs through mid-July.

Volunteers are required to undergo preliminary training ahead of time and are usually assigned one two-hour shift per week. Equipped with UTVs, volunteers patrol designated areas of the beach each morning looking for nesting sea turtles or sea turtle nests and tracks, as well as other wildlife. “Volunteers may not necessarily see a sea turtle nest during their route, but they will see something exciting,” Theresa says.

Those interested in becoming a Sea Turtle Nest Patrol volunteer can learn more by visiting www.seaturtles.org for additional information. Registration will begin in January with critical training to follow in February, but the recruitment time is now.

In the spring, beach goers are encouraged to report any sighting of a nesting sea turtle or nests by calling the TIRN sponsored hotline at 1-866-TURTLE-5. If you happen to find one, don’t mess with it. Federal and state laws protect sea turtle nests and harming one can lead to hefty fines, even prison time.

Through the dedicated efforts of the Turtle Island Restoration Network and its volunteers, saving the precious Kemp’s ridley is possible. We in the coastal communities of Texas have the knowledge, capacity, and power to protect and preserve the ocean’s diverse marine life by directly participating as advocates for such change. Save sea turtles and join today. TL

by DESTINY MARTIN inset photos courtesy of TURTLE ISLAND RESTORATION NETWORK

outdoors

Did you call it a dolphin on porpoise?

by SCOTT RAY

is not uncommon to hear their names used interchangeably. Ride the ferry, and you’ll likely hear a handful of friendly debates and casual corrections made to folks calling our local species one or the other. But which is it, really? Are they dolphins or porpoises? Read on, and I’ll explain the differences between the two so you can know for sure which animal you are seeing.

First, let’s begin by talking about what they have in common. Both dolphins and porpoises are cetaceans (si-tey-shuns), an order of marine mammals that also includes whales. They are classified as toothed whales, along with belugas, narwhals, and sperm whales. There are a total of 33 dolphin species in the world with only six species of porpoises. While all marine mammals are highly intelligent, dolphins are typically more curious around humans than porpoises are and can seem very friendly. Both animals use echolocation, which means they project a sound and detect the echoing sounds that bounce back to sense what is around them, to find food, and communicate with others. Much like bats, but more advanced.

So what is it that makes them different, and hopefully easier to tell apart? Well, let’s take a closer look at distinguishing features on their heads. Dolphins have defined foreheads, and long pointed beaks or snouts. Porpoises, on the other hand, have a rounder, less defined forehead, and a short snout. The shape of their mouth is also very different. If you were to see a porpoise or dolphin bite mark, it would be easy to tell which animal did the biting. Dolphins have sharp, coned shaped teeth, and their tooth arrangement is narrow, while porpoises have a wider bite accompanied by flat, triangular teeth. If you happen to see their beak or their bite, chances are you’ll be able to identify the difference between a dolphin and a porpoise quickly.

46 | THE LOCAL

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: ANDREA IZZOTTI, MATTHIA ATH, JACQUELYN KRAMER, BRENDAN HUNTER

Dolphins and porpoises are some of the most majestic creatures in the world, and it

Next, let’s examine their bodies as this is another indicator that will help us better understand which species it is that occupies our local waters. One of the first things about a dolphin or porpoise that you might catch a glimpse of is the dorsal fin. This is the fin on top of their backs that breaches the water as they are swimming. The dorsal fin of a porpoise is small, short and shaped like a triangle. In contrast, the dolphin’s dorsal fin is much taller and has a distinct curve towards their tail. Their pectoral fins are also quite different with porpoises having short and stubby flippers and those of the dolphin being longer. On average, dolphins are significantly larger than porpoises, too, reaching 6-12 feet in length, while porpoises may only grow to be around seven-feet long.

At this point, you may be asking yourself, so which one is it that I see in Galveston Bay? If you guessed dolphins, then you’re correct. According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, there are 26 species of whales and dolphins noted on the Texas coast, with the bottlenose dolphin being the most common by far. These playful creatures inhabit a majority of the world’s oceans and are the most common of the dolphin species by a vast margin.

It would be rare to see any other marine mammal in or around our area besides a bottlenose. But, hey, you never know what you’ll find when you get out in nature. TL If you come across an injured or stranded marine mammal, call 1-800-9 MAMMAL and report it immediately.

Scott Ray is a seasoned fisherman, survivalist, reel-doctor, and all-around outdoor enthusiast who has spent his life studying nature and the beauty it has to offer. Scott is the owner of Super Tunes, a reel repair and cleaning service on Bolivar Peninsula. For inquiries and more info, contact him at scottray1320@yahoo.com

HOME DÉCOR/FURNITURE Bayside Chic Galveston 4002 Broadway 409-621-9540 Coburn’s Kitchen & Bath Showroom 2912 Eastex Fwy 409-899-9911 Beaumont’s Downtown Mural Artwork 660 Fannin St.

Local Directory ATTRACTIONS A Shore Venture Beach Toy Rentals & Adventures 409-926-2914 info@ashoreventure.com RESTAURANTS/VENUES Neches Brewing Company 1108 Por t Neches Avenue 409-237-5700 Stingaree Restaurant & Marina 1295 N Stingaree Rd. 409-684-2731 VACATION RENTALS Aria 2840 Hwy 87 409-684-3345 Blessed for Shore 2840 Hwy 87 409-684-3345

REAL ESTATE Crystal Beach Plaza 2275 Hwy 87 409-684-3345

The Blind Factory 7396 College St. 409-866-4055 Woven Inspiration 2228 Broadway 409-502-1940 BOATING/RV Texas Marine, Beaumont 1140 IH-10 N 888-620-8097

Gabourel Insurance 6454 Concord Rd. Beaumont 409-898-2693 Galveston College 4015 Avenue Q 409-944-4242 Southern Broadband 4298 Hwy 87 409-684-7021 GROCERY/SHOPPING The Big Store, Gulf Coast Market 2385 Hwy 87 409-684-2400 BANKING Texas First Bank, Crystal Beach 2385 Hwy 87 409-684-3523

Cobb Real Estate 2290 Hwy 87 409-684-3790

SERVICES 650 Media Group, LLC PO Box 1747, Crystal Beach 817-505-8208

J & J Hughes, RE/MAX On The Water - Bolivar 409-782-3746 (Jo Ann) 409-673-6650 (Jessica)

Bolivar Peninsula Chamber of Commerce 1750 Hwy 87 409-684-5940

Pelican Point 200 Hwy 87 409-767-4464

Chic Chef, Carly Oubre 409-988-3355 chicchefcaters@gmail.com

Texas First Bank, Galveston 13701 FM 3005 409-737-5400

Swede’s Real Estate 2840 Hwy 87 409-684-3345

Crystal Beach Local News Tom & Georgia Osten crystalbeach.com

Texas First Bank, Winnie 210 Hwy 124 409-296-2111

Our Promise Kept 2840 Hwy 87 409-684-3345

HOMEBUILDERS Brint Construction 970 Surfside Dr. 409-767-4464

Wave Walkin’ 2840 Hwy 87 409-684-3345

Cobb Homebuilders 2290 Hwy 87 409-651-6004

48 | THE LOCAL

Galveston Furniture & Flooring 4214 Broadway 409-762-5244

Frontier Pest Control PO Box 277, Midway 866-400-7378

Dan Priest Insurance 347 S Main St. Ste. 100 Lumber ton 409-755-7600 Del Papa Distributing, Beaumont 410 I-10 Frontage Rd. 888-433-5727

Texas First Bank, Galveston 2401 Broadway 409-762-7974 Texas First Bank, Galveston 6501 Stewar t Rd. 409-744-6353

& EAT SHOP & SHOP EAT

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Chamber of Commerce 409-684-5940

Chamber of Commerce 409-684-5940

Area Information Live Webcams Local Events Business Directory Beach Rentals Fishing Reports

LocalNe ws.com THE LOCAL | 49

sea & be seen

Incoming by Stefan Puffer

Good Morning, Crystal Beach by Dawn DeVillers

50 | THE LOCAL

Bull Red by Angela Berton

Pelican from Left

by Paul Noland

East Bay Shrimp by Steven Toups

Sounding Trumpets by Kim Huber

THE LOCAL | 51

Beach Dog by Caroline Evans

Share your local scene.

Send us photos of your favorite places, people, and past times. Submit high resolution images (300 dpi minimum) to info@thebolivarlocal.com.

Don’t forget to include your name and picture title.

Single Flight by Kim Huber

52 | THE LOCAL

Sunset on Fire by Kristi Meenan

REAL ESTATE

Since 1986

We’re more than just Real Estate.

Our team of local agents, home builders, and vacation property managers are dedicated to exclusively serving the Crystal Beach market. With more than 30 years experience on Bolivar Peninsula and a proven record of top Real Estate sales in Galveston County, we are commited to delivering the best possible results for you.