During these seven days, the nation witnessed the Apollo 11 mission reach the lunar surface, saw the founding of iconic American entities, and grappled with moments that redefined the presidency and civil rights. This span serves as a powerful reflection of the United States’ ongoing commitment to progress, governance, and exploration. July 14 July 15…

Under skies of burning, brilliant blue,The crowds arrive for the festive view.Before the morning heat can rise,They stake their claim for paradise.Shoulder to shoulder on shifting sand,A vibrant, sprawling, coastal band. Bright canopies sprout like a rainbow field,As sun-drenched joy begins to yield.The ring of washers, the cornhole toss,With games that measure gain and loss.While…

Every Fourth of July, the night sky over Crystal Beach, Texas, transforms into a sprawling, horizon-to-horizon canopy of light. For miles along the Bolivar Peninsula, tens of thousands of beachgoers witness a massive, continuous display of light and sound funded not by a single municipal budget, but entirely by the collective purchases of everyday families.…

Many know that the Texas State Bird is the Mockingbird…or is it the Mosquito? It’s hard to tell sometimes, even at the beach. We all love the beach, and mosquitoes do too. Water is a necessary part of the mosquito’s habitat, and the Peninsula has plenty of water spots for a mosquito family to call…

At the 2026 Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, held on America’s 250th birthday, legends Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo once again reigned supreme at Coney Island. Despite a brutal heat wave, both athletes secured decisive victories to defend their respective titles. Joey Chestnut’s 18th Title Joey Chestnut extended his record-breaking legacy by consuming 66…

The Bolivar Peninsula Cultural Foundation is delighted to invite the community to our upcoming Fall Arts & Crafts Fair, set to take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026. Join us at the Swedes Park Pavilion in Crystal Beach from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for a day dedicated to shopping, browsing, and celebrating local artistry.…

Many waterways have bridges that pass over them. Some are quite tall and are almost taken for granted, but many bridges are so low to the water that you need to know if you can safely pass beneath them. This column will address what you need to know about bridges. Low bridge, ev’rybody downLow bridge,…

Surface water temperature is 84 degrees. The water clarity is normal for East Galveston Bay. Once again, this week we shifted our focus towards trout on the flats over shell, as well as Open Water Reefs when the wind cooperated. Active bait in the area is important, so if you don’t see bait or signs…

You just sat down in your beach chair with a perfectly constructed turkey sandwich. You took your time making it, got the mayo-to-mustard ratio just right, and wrapped it neatly in foil. You take one bite, look away for a fraction of a second to check out a cool boat in the distance, and—WHOOSH. A…

The 4th of July, hot times on the beach! Many hours spent on the beach this past weekend, I think we set a record! Oh, and the people watching was at it’s best! Much to this pair of Grandparents’ delight, we had a full house this weekend. Our granddaughter surprised us by coming down on…

During these seven days, the United States solidified its governing framework with the Northwest Ordinance, expanded its reach into the Pacific, and witnessed landmark cultural milestones. These events highlight the persistent spirit of growth, governance, and social change that has defined the American experience across the centuries. July 7 July 8 July 9 July 10…

This Fourth of July is no ordinary summer holiday. On July 4, 2026, the United States of America turns 250 years old — a quarter-millennium of independence, resilience, and reinvention. For those of us lucky enough to call the Texas Gulf Coast home, there may be no better place on earth to mark the occasion…

On a quiet street in Crystal Beach, a dog named Enzo is having a very good month. He arrived shy and still, content to curl up on a blanket with a toy. But lately, something has shifted — he’s jumping, running, nibbling, and exploring the world around him with the wide-eyed curiosity of a puppy…

The Texas Crab Festival luncheon honoring the 2026 festival committee captains was held at Margaritaville on Friday. The event served as a heartfelt tribute to the leaders who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to turn this year’s festival into a huge success. Mark DeSantis, President of Bolivar Peninsula Charities, took the stage to express his…

By Paulette LayfieldOne day, while searching for something in my mom’s garage, I came across a striking toolbox. It was made of sheet metal, but what truly set it apart were the smooth rivets lining every edge. Today, we might say it was “blinged out” or “bedazzled” with studs, otherwise known as rivets. I asked,…

Join the Crystal Beach Community Church for a fun-filled community celebration honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. This free event will take place on July 4th from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Crystal Beach Community Church, located at 1825 TX-87 in Crystal Beach. Bring the whole family to enjoy…

Daniel P Elissalde Sr.Beloved Father, Son, Brother, FriendsDecember 26, 1960-November 14, 2025 By Linda ElissaldeOur son Daniel P Elissalde Sr. served his country as a member of the Army Special Forces. He was an army ranger and army medic. His intelligence, computer skills, bravery and gifted ability with languages especially Spanish and Mandarin Chinese served…

If you missed the Disaster Preparation Talk at Crystal Beach Community Church last Tuesday, below is a link to the recorded presentation In this presentation, former Navy pilot and engineer Dave Stevens shares practical strategies for navigating both local and global crises, with a specific focus on hurricane preparedness. Stevens outlines three levels of disaster…

One of the most important ways for recreational boaters to increase their safety on the water is to undergo a free U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Safety Check (VSC). The Auxiliary has certified vessel examiners who will come to your location to perform the VSC. We perform VSCs on powerboats, sailboats, and kayaks. Yes, even kayaks…

Surface water temperature is 82 degrees. Once again, this week we dealt with a good amount of wind, and we shifted our focus towards trout on the protected flats over shell, as well as Open Water Reefs when the wind would allow it. Active bait in the area is important, so if you don’t see…