Nestled along the Gulf Coast of Texas, the Port of Galveston has long been a vital hub for international commerce, regional economic development, and maritime activity. With its deep historical roots and modern capabilities, the port plays a crucial role in connecting the United States to global markets while serving as an economic engine for…

By J. Lee Austin, MD Continuing on with our endearing theme of Near Death Adventures, the following close call featured the entertaining trilogy of sudden danger surprise, high speed chills and a thin line of control, flirting with a razor’s edge of disaster. There I was, minding my own, cruising down the Interstate in my…

During the months of January and February, you can purchase your 2025 Bolivar Beach Parking Sticker for only $5.00. Early-bird stickers are available at the customer service desk in The Big Store, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday beginning January 2 through February 28, from 10am-3pm (cash or check only). After March 1, 2025, stickers will…

In this column I write a lot about safely operating your boat as the boat operator, or captain as you will be addressed by the Coast Guard. But have you ever thought about safety as a guest on someone else’s boat? I have, and my friends and I take turns operating our boats when we…

In the world of grown-up responsibilities, there are few things as universally dreaded as paperwork. But buckle up, because the REAL ID deadline is coming faster than your next coffee break. If you’ve somehow missed the memo (or intentionally blocked it out), here’s what you need to know: after May 7, 2025, you won’t be…

Our Florida family left last Friday after spending Christmas with us and skiing in Colorado. No more opening and shutting of doors, no more wet bathing suits (hot tub, not swimming pool), no more volley ball & pickleball. No more laundry to speak of except for catching up on laundering sheets and stuff. Oh dear…

I have often heard the term “Gentleman Farmer”, I assumed it meant someone who had a farm but really did not farm it or get his hands dirty.  Well I am a “Lady Gardener” (new term, I just came up with). I come from a long line of gardeners, both of my grandmothers, my mother…

The past year on Bolivar Peninsula has been a remarkable testament to our vibrant community spirit, highlighted by a diverse array of events that united residents and visitors alike. From lively parades and captivating fashion shows to delicious cook-offs and competitive golf tournaments, our calendar was filled with activities that celebrated our local culture and…

The Bolivar Arena Association is a budding 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a bold vision: to construct a full-sized, all-purpose arena on the Bolivar Peninsula. This arena aims to host a variety of events, from rodeos to barrel racing, while serving as a hub for community gatherings and a resource to support local fire departments. In the…

By J. Lee Austin, MD As much as I would like to pontificate about lovely current events like the never-ending Covid Scam, Chosenite Atrocities, the Humpty Trumpty Divide and Conquer Globalist PsyOp or our Distraction Nation with its Fake Assassination Fascination, I think I will instead palaver on about some of the other times I…

In 2024, American parents continued to favor timeless and classic names for their newborns. The top five names for girls and boys reflect enduring preferences with subtle shifts from previous years. These naming trends highlight a blend of traditional and multicultural influences, with parents opting for names that are not only meaningful but also carry…

The Station Galveston Flotilla of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary operates out of the USCG Station Galveston base on Galveston Island. They aid the Coast Guard by providing maritime observation patrols in Galveston Bay; by providing recreational boating vessel safety checks; and by working alongside Coast Guard members in maritime accident investigation, small boat training,…

The Crystal Beach Cemetery is located on Cemetery Road, off Hwy 87 next to First Baptist Church. Buried in the cemetery are many of the long time citizens of Crystal Beach who started civic groups, churches, and contributed much to our community. Family members of many of these people have relocated and the Association has…

By Shannon Williams I am having a time problem…. I never know what day it is. I am late to everything and have over committed myself. I understand these are common problems to have when one retires. I get to go bed when I want to, sleep till I want to and pretty much put…

As we expected, the Booms are pounding all around us! Our Granddog, Knight, is not a fan. He keeps walking around and staring at us to make them quit! Thank goodness we got our power restored. What a quick turnaround! A tornado hits on Saturday somewhere near us, like right down the street – I-24…

The annual Texas winter tradition of rainbow trout stocking is underway at waterbodies across the state to kick off the holiday season. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) began stocking thousands of rainbow trout in late November. “TPWD stocks catchable sized fish during winter months to create unique winter angling opportunities throughout Texas,” said…

For the past 25 years, the Annual Bike Drive has brought joy and happiness to children across the Bolivar Peninsula. Now operated by Texas Crab Festival Charities (TCFC) this cherished tradition continues to uplift the community, ensuring that the magic of the holiday season reaches even its youngest members. This year, the Bike Drive teamed…

Some stories tug at the heartstrings and inspire us to see the world differently. Bolivar the Ferry Dog is one such tale, now captured in a book by a compassionate author who experienced the journey firsthand. The story chronicles the incredible rescue of a stray dog on Bolivar Peninsula, a journey filled with persistence, patience, and…

In 1929, Captain William Wincapaw, an aviation pioneer from Friendship, Maine, initiated a heartfelt tradition known as “The Flying Santas.” Recognizing the vital yet isolated role of lighthouse keepers along New England’s treacherous coastline, Wincapaw sought to express his gratitude for their dedication to maintaining navigational beacons that ensured the safety of countless mariners and…

1997 was a iconic year Elton John’s “Candle In The Wind” ranked #1 on the Billboard charts following the untimely death of Princess Diana. *Titanic* was a box-office bestseller. Tiger Woods won the Masters at just 21 years old, making him the youngest player in golf history to earn the prestigious green jacket, and Steve…