And Its Menacing Cousin, the Screeching Halt By J. Lee Austin Staying true to our recent theme of Close Calls, today’s meandering narrative evokes the reckless blundering of my younger days, personified in numerous foolish escapades on the water. While nearly getting killed on the roadways is certainly bonafide dramatic, it pales in comparison to…

Although there is no regulation requiring a recreational boat to be equipped with an anchor and anchor line, in some cases being able to quickly deploy an anchor could be a lifesaving move. Anchors are important equipment for all boats. They allow you to remain in Tom Tom Osten is carrying on the legacy of…

This past Saturday, the Bolivar Point Lighthouse shone brightly in celebration of its remarkable history and ongoing restoration. Hosted by the Bolivar Point Lighthouse Foundation, the community gathered on the lighthouse grounds to honor this iconic structure, freshly painted in its original black-and-white stripes—a stunning display of progress. Visitors enjoyed the rare opportunity to walk…

Crystal Beach kicked off the holiday season in festive style on Saturday with the annual Chamber of Commerce Crystaland Parade. Santa and Mrs. Claus led the way, starting at the fire station and cruising down Crystal Beach Road to the shoreline, delighting parade watchers along the route. Following Santa’s sleigh were an array of decorated…

Chamber of Commerce Annual Christmas Lighting ContestThe Bolivar Peninsula is aglow with twinkling lights and festive decorations this holiday season, thanks to the Chamber of Commerce’s annual Home and Business Christmas Lighting Contest. This cherished tradition brings neighbors and visitors together to celebrate the spirit of the season and admire the creativity of local homes…

By Linda Elissalde Bolivar Peninsula Cultural Foundation (BPCF) and Second Going Resale Store help our peninsula in so many ways. Both gift our area with funds for students’ education, preservation of history and cultural and provide for those in need. When you add the two together, something remarkable is the sum. BPCF hosted a style…

…Is Measured In Milliseconds J. Lee Austin, MD Some of you may be wondering why the fixation on “close calls” in my life story. To this very legitimate question I may answer by using another term for these events … Near Death Experiences. Proximity to death seems to have a way of forging a focus…

The Nauti Beaver Hut was packed to the rafters on Thursday night as excitement filled the air for the finale of the Queen of Hearts contest. By 4:30, eager attendees began arriving to claim the best seats, and by 5:30, it was standing-room-only. The energy was palpable as everyone anticipated not just the conclusion of…

A Day of Weather, Competition, and CommunityOn a brisk Saturday morning, the 3rd Annual Dabney Harrison Memorial Golf Tournament teed off at The Ranch Wallis Smith Community Golf Course in Crystal Beach. The day began with a lively winner-take-all putting contest. After about a dozen attempts, the closest putt was 7-1/2 inches—until Buddy Ruffeno, the…

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.…