The Bolivar Christmas Market made a festive return to the Pavilion at Swedes Park this Saturday, drawing shoppers, families, and holiday enthusiasts alike for a day filled with seasonal cheer. The event, which ran from 10 a.m. to the evening hours, featured 24 arts and crafts vendors showcasing a delightful selection of handmade goods, clothing,…

By Linda Elissalde So long, Paris! Goodbye, Milan! Hello, Crystal Beach! CB is now the epicenter of style because of THE SALTY MERMAID BOUTIQUE. Owner Shauna Williams created an island gem. Assistants DeDe Ballard, Tammie Hernandez and Andi Fuqua contribute their talents to make visitors feel welcomed and comfortable as they shop. This beach Tom…

Just a Sneaky Little Peek at My Memoirs By J. Lee Austin, MD While I have indeed had some breathtaking close calls, it’s not like I’m a Knievel or anything. Truth be told, I actually have gone flying off motorcycles, but never while jumping a moving train or a tank full of sharks. Never understood…

Saying Goodbye to a Piece of Ike’s History After 16 years, one of the last visible reminders of what locals still call “the storm” is finally going away. Hurricane Ike, which roared ashore in September 2008, left an indelible mark on Crystal Beach and the surrounding area. Over 3,000 homes were destroyed, some completely washed…

By Linda Elissalde Sundays are always important. They are days of rest and refreshing. They are days of worship. Sunday, November 10, 2024 proved to be a very special one at Bay Vue Methodist Church. Veterans Day on November 11 commemorates the service of all U.S. veterans. The worship honored those present who had served…

By Linda Elissalde What a gorgeous evening for the October 26, 2024 Big Store’s annual GHOST ON THE COAST! A brightly shining sun showcased beautiful, unique and very scary things. Count on The Big Store, aka, The Gulf Coast market to mount another successful presentation. Planning began long before the event. Employees were out early…

The aroma of Cajun cooking filled the air as the 2024 edition of Brad & Big Rich’s Cajun Chef Cookoff took center stage. With a picture-perfect day setting the scene, six cook teams began firing up their pots and grills at 7:00 am, ready to showcase their culinary skills in three fierce categories: Bloody Mary,…

Young Anglers Make Waves at Stingaree Marina The 2024 Hardhead Haul-In, part of the Saltwater Slam Fishing Tournament, brought together young anglers for a day of fun and friendly competition at Stingaree Marina. With beautiful sunny weather setting the stage, over 100 excited kids lined the dock, rods in hand, ready to make their catch.…