Where did this place come from ? Been coming to Crystal Beach for years and noticed the cars parked around this place. Holy Toledo, never imagined such a place like this existed on this beach. Quite a pleasant surprise. The waitress, Brandi was super. An older woman was there along with a girl named Rocky. This place was full and rockin and these girls just made it look so easy and made you really feel welcome. The food was simply outstanding. Would never have guessed it. If there is actually a Bob, you have a place and a crew you can be proud of. To whomever owns this place, I tip my hat to you. I travel quite a bit and have been to many, many restaurants. This is not fine dining , but it was a fine experience. Everyone in restaurant seemed so happy. I had the typical burger and fries and simply put, the meal was outstanding. Very hard to beat. Looking at the food coming out of the kitchen was even more impressive. If their really is a Bob, you may reach me @ r.strarks@gmail.com. We need to talk. read more ...

Fun and unique island decor and gifts.  read more ...

Correction to my comments, 25 w/o stickers and only 5 to 10 had stickers. read more ...

I don't mind paying these fee at all to improve our beaches. Problem is, we counted 25 vehicles going from Lazy Lane (Emerald I) to Tinkle Drive on Saturday this past weekend. Approximately 5 to 10 of these vehicles had stickers. We are seeing this every weekend and nothing is being done. read more ...

I can see where those who don't ride much think this is a rip. Yes, our legislative brench could have done what they were asked, which was to pass a law limiting the age of a driver while on a public road or beach in a MV and golf cart. That way they would have achieved control over the golf cart drivers and the UTV drivers without causing such a burden for funds. I ride every weekend that I'm down at CB which is about 50 weekends or so. I hope the discusion continues to be constructive so everyone can get back on the beach. Work this through the 2009 January session in Austin if you want change. Make the noise. I almost pulled ~$500,000 of revenue from Galveston County this week. We schedule entertainment for our clients and I'm not about place our clients in the bullseye of Galvetson County. Hope to see you on the beach. read more ...

Earl
I think you may have misunderstood what you read. I have full coverage insurance on my mule that cost's $125.00 per year and my registration is $70.00 per year. The previous post said that the liability insurance was $100.00 per year not the registration.
i am from the dallas area and would visit the CB area 4 to 5 times a year and would always buy my stuff there to cut the cost of fuel to haul it all there. My gas for the mule and generator along with most of my grocery's. I am a member of the Utilityoffroad.com/forum and we are very disappointed in this new law even though alot of us are street legal we still have several that are not and cannot attend our rides on the beach.
I hope that all of these issues are resolved soon. If we should find a new place to gather and ride and become fond of it prior to this issue being resolved our trips to the beach may permantly stop. read more ...

So you guys that registered your utv's are saying it costs $100 a year?? Damn that is more than my 1ton dually?? Man this sux.... Then on top of that insurance is going to be a couple hundred prob. So i am looking at $300 bux to take my rhino to the beach maybe 2 times a year..... read more ...

I've been posting all of my frustration on another website. This weekend we road our properly registered Polaris Ranger on Crystal Beach and saw several Deputies. None of them stopped us. A couple looked for the plates and then kept riding. I hope the legal office and law enforcement are now on the right track. I greatly appreciate everyone's effort in getting us back on the beach. We do need to support our law enforcement officers as they were just doing what the office had told them to do. Now maybe they can enforce the littering laws and ticket the careless and reckless driving that goes on our beach. read more ...

bruce i have plates and reg sticker on my mule and insurance man is in process of getting me a card , when they run my plates it comes back as a kawasaki ,,body- golf cart . and on my title application it even shows i paid a 10.00 road & bridge fee, yes i see what the atv law means but i also see that the state regestered my mule as a legal vehicle, wich is more than any of the golf carts have . and i just would like to cruz the beach just like the golf carts, i really do not wish to raise cain on the beach like i see the trucks and jeeps do. i have a friend that went to high island this weekend and he said he saw dirt bikes and 4 wheelers on the beach so it seams like one question leads to another . if anyone ever figures it out please post it . read more ...

Best hamburgers I've ever had, period. The french fries are so crunchy good that they actually taste like a potato too, but the onion rings really stand out. If you're a fan of onion rings, don't miss them here. The toasted-baked buns top the burgers off, literally and figuratively. Prices are not out of line with other burger joints -- if you want to pay fast-food prices, head to the drive-thru. I've never had a problem with service, usually getting my food within 10 minutes or so of ordering.

They also serve crab meat nachos. I don't eat nachos often but theirs are the best in town. All the pico and salsa you can eat are available to go with your food. If you're grumpy about waiting around on a Friday or Saturday night, just go on in and enjoy the place. You will be amazed that this place is in Crystal Beach. You would expect such a place in the city.
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Micheal, Did you talk to Barry Willie???? Also did you tell them your UTV was registered as a SLOW MOVING VEHICLE????? Barry Willie was the one who was tasked by the Galveston County attorney office to interpret this issue. Monday I will be trying to get my Ranger 4X4 registered as a Slow Moving Vehicle. If successful I will drive it not only on the beach but any public road. If Galveston County law enforcement wants to ticket me then we will all get to find out what the truth is about what is enforceable and what is not......... The Galveston County sheriff officers nor any other law enforcement can forbid current registered Slow Moving Vehicles use of the PUBLIC ROADS. The law the Galveston County Sheriff is using to keep the UTV's off OUR PUBLIC BEACH ACCESS comes from the same set of laws which include the current law (SLow Moving Vehicle) they are also enforcing. The Slow Moving Vehicle is not new it has been in place for quite some time now...... Still, the UTV owners and Crystal Beach Chamber Commerce along with the local businesses should keep the inquiries coming to Craig Eiland and the Galveston County Sheriff's about getting this issue resolved..........  read more ...

Michael if your UTV is titled and has plates and you have insurance.Why don't you take your UTV to the beach and be the test case the fine can't be that much.I don't see how they can stop you if you are legal to ride on the roads I also called my insurance agent and he told me insururance would be about $100.00 per year on my Prowler. read more ...

i called that number today and talked to a plesant man , but he said they are illegal to ride on the beach so the confusion is still there but i also heard unsureness in his voice so the confusion contuines on , my mule is titled as a golf cart with plates and a sticker on it . IT WOULD REALLY BE NICE IF SOMEONE WOULD FIGURE THIS OUT.  read more ...

I found this site on the internet that answered a lot of my questions about getting my ranger 4X4 registered as a Slow Moving Vehicle. Also My Ranger 4X4 has Two drive ranges. Drive range one only allows it to run 15 to 20 MPH. So I will always only use that range to drive it. To get to that internet site, go to GOOGLE and type "Registering Polaris Ranger Texas" GOOGE will list several sites, but the one I selected that really provided great info was about six entries from the top - "BUGGIES UNLIMITED GOLF CART FORUM : View topic - TEXAS - STREET" This is six or more pages of blog entries of texas people registering their golf carts and John Deere Gators as slow moving vehicles. You do have to sign a form stating your UTV does not exceed 25 MPH. If you have only one drive range you will need to go to the dealer and ask how to govern your UTV to only run a max speed of 25 MPH. Your Insurance and what forms needed questions should get answered. Good luck-- I will be starting that process next week for my own UTV........ read more ...

Alice also provides a coastal wide real estate portal at TexasGulfCoastOnline.com

You have to check that out! read more ...

Bruce, or anyone that has registered their utv, what is the cost? Im also guessing you need insurance?? How much is this??  read more ...

Bruce, how do you plan to register your ranger? It is my understanding that if the vehicle exceeds 25 mph it cannot be resistered as a slow moving vehicle/neighborhood vehicle. I own a arctic cat prowler which run 40+ and would like very much to be able to register it but at this point I don't see how. read more ...

My wife spoke again with the Galveston County attorneys office(Barry Willie) which is in charge of the interpretation of this new legislation today. He said if the UTV is registered as a slow moving vehicle or neighborhood electric vehicle and display's the license plate on the UTV, The UTV WILL BE ALLOWED TO OPERATE ON THE Port Bolivair, and Crystal Beach. He said his department has sent a memo to the sheriff department telling them not to issue citations to the registered UTV's and if they do write citations to the registered UTV's his department will not proscute.... Barry Willie's phone number is (409)770-5562 in case you would like to verify this info...... Now all us unregistered guy's will have to fight thru the registeration process..... This is great news -- just hope it sticks........ read more ...

hay read more ...

Good info Bruce, I am ready to see some resoloution also......  read more ...

BE, a letter of intent was filed by the author of the bill in question by that author at the time the bill was being passed. This part of the process of introducing the bill for passage...... Craig Eiland knows that.... This is just another stall tatic by Craig, instead of addressing the issue.... It is becoming more and more appearent Craig Eiland is not representing all of the people who put him in office...... After all he did vote for this bill, and he should now also stand up and either fix this mess or explain why he felt by voting for this bill was in OUR best interest. Sure would like to know how he would have voted if Craig had spent 10,000.00 plus on a utv knowing he would no longer be able to use it on the beach as intended...... Sure hope the merchants at Crystal beach are keeping in contact with Craig Eiland letting him know this issue is not going away and needs to be resolved very soon. The UTV owners that spent that 10,000.00 plus and have for year(s) been driving them on the beach are not going to fade away as they would like...... If Craig Eiland or the state of texas would like to give me the 10,000.00 I spent for my UTV, I would be more than happy to just go about my bussiness and forget about this mess.... Until then they better get use to hearing from me........ Specially around election time.......  read more ...

Last thur. I called Craig Eiland office and ask to speak with Craig E. and was told he was in LA.by the lady that answered phone. I also asked what was he doing to straighten out the mess with the UTV.s at crystal beach and was told he was asking for a letter of intent from the auther of the law. She also said Craig E. did not fill the law was intented to stop UTV. from rideing on the beach. My question is how long does it take to write a letter or email this request read more ...

Has anyone seen spoke to the elusive Craig Eiland???? I requested info from his office by phone and E-Mail, but to date no response..... I was under the belief that Craig Eiland is suspose to be representing us..... Maybe the no response is because he did in fact vote for HB3849 which statred this whole mess..... He will get to see me in person though --- When the next seesion conviens in Austin and when he comes up for re-election....... read more ...

Birding 101
Second Saturday of Every Month
9am - 11am

Galveston is home to hundreds of species of birds. Egrets, herons, ducks, hawks and gulls are a few who spend time on the Island. Those interested in learning more about area birds are invited to Moody Gardens for Birding 101. Birding 101 is a series of free classes designed to educate and excite people about the tremendous variety of bird life in the area.

Birding 101 classes, held on the second Saturday of every month, teaches the basics of birding.

Birding 101 classes begin with a power-point presentation and are followed by a tour of the Moody Gardens property where participants can spot a variety of bird species. According to Jeremy Unruh, Birding 101 instructor, they can expect to see “anywhere from 20 to 45 bird species on the property during class.” He added, “One of the highlights of the tour is when we spot a peregrine falcon that nests at the hotel."

Moody Gardens entered into a partnership with the Galveston Nature Tourism Council in early 2005 and began hosting birding workshops in March 2005. Moody Gardens is a public, non-profit, educational destination utilizing nature in the advancement of rehabilitation, conservation, recreation, and research.

Birding 101 classes are free. They meet from 9:00 am to 11:00 am in the Aquarium Pyramid. Reservations should be made no later than the Wednesday prior to the class. To reserve a space, call 800/582-4673 ext. 4105. read more ...

Has anyone heard how the meeting went with Craig Eiland about the UTV. this week read more ...

It's amazing to me how easy it is to just rewrite the laws to cater to the special interest groups. I guess Crystal Beach and Galveston county have found their way to run the middle class out. Good luck to them dealing with what's left in our place. Our group will go elsewhere. Another fine example of bureaucracy at its finest. What a crying shame. read more ...

This place is a great way to take the stress away from a hard day. This sports bar offers a variety of options from sports on 8 different channels, to satellite music and THE BEST HAMBURGERS and FRIES I've ever tasted. Bob’s has it ALL. The crab nachos and the rib-eye nachos are my favorite treats. You should visit, you will be glad you did. Only issue, Friday nights is usually very crowed, so arrive early as there can sometimes be a wait on the food because they are always busy cooking more delicious food! read more ...

UPDATE -- I too own a house at Crystal Beach and own a Ranger UTV. I was told also to stay of the beach in March 2008. I called and E-Mailed Craig Eiland(State Rep.) but as of this date I have not received a return call or E-Mail. My wife had found out that the Texas General Land Office could maybe help us UTV owners on this issue, so we made an inquiry. We found out that on April 16,2008 a meeting was held at the Texas General Land office about this very issue to see who has jurisdiction over the beach area at Port Bolivar. It was determined that Galveston County has that jurisdiction and not the state. We also learned that the Galveston County attorney's office is responsible for the interpretation of these new laws passed.(2127 and 3849) We called the County attorney office to speak with the county attorney who did the interpretation but was told he was off today. His name is Barry Willie and his number is (409)770-5562 in case anyone else would like to question him. It appears that us UTV owners who still desire to use our UTV's on the beach at Port Bolivar only chance at getting this straightened out is to contact Craig Eiland on a regular basis inquiring about the status of his involvement in getting Galveston County policy reversed. E-mail's should still be sent to Crystal Beach chamber commerence and local business owners on a regular basis asking them to also help put additional pressure on the County to reverse their position on this issue. The golf car people should also come on baord and help with these inquires too. They better realize they are next in line for some of the same type of legislation too. Just maybe we may get this mess straightened out yet...... By the way the people at the State Highway Dept, and the Texas General Land Office can not understand why Galveston County has decided to take the position that they have for the enforcement of these new laws......... read more ...

The staff are very friendly and helpful - the crawfish etoufee is wonderful as are the grilled oysters! Try their white russian for "dessert"! read more ...

Have you see all the new homes and docks going in at the Crown Team Developments?

In fact they have the most new home sales this year of any new development and the homeowners are all happy.

And they are all providing great testimonials about the products and services they have received at both Laguna Harbor and the Audubon Village resort.

Crown Team did change their modular plant labor force to sub-contractor, but so that the same electricians and plumbers could do the inside plant work and on-site work. And also to better respond to today's market conditions.

If you look around the Bolivar Peninsula, you see a growing and improving oceanfront resort. Yet it is still affordable and family oriented. read more ...

I forgot.....the unemployment rate is not an accurate percentage due to the high number of retirees residing here.

And the Peninsula is considered by the goverment as a disadvantaged community.

I love it for its' lack of development therefore I suppose I'm a "anti-deveopment" member. read more ...

Growth since 2000 may be high but the last two years are low as many residents have moved.

The cost of living may be lower than much of the US but it is high for Texas.

As for real estate and development, it is dead in the water....Avocet, no homes built.....Lagauna Harbor, have they even sold a single home there?........Audubon Village, what,3 homes with no connection to any wastewater system?.......Seagrass, no homes built.......Dunes of Bolivar, homes built,no sales......Coastal Componets, shuttered.........the list goes on.

The new waterlines were paid for with loans based on 10% a year growth rates of water connections and associated fees. That ain't happening, so how are the loans going to be paid back?? read more ...

These are the nicest people I have ever come in contact with and the most honest, and fair. Really just good hearted people. read more ...

Strong points: waitstaff. He's got some good ones now, had some scary ones in the past. The atmosphere now is definitely a local hangout, there's not so many places to go here and this is one of the cleaner ones. The food is GREAT. I do have to take issue with that "fresh shrimp poor boy" comment though. They're about as fresh as Sysco has if that is what the poster meant. The kitchen is usually open till 9 which is good. Drinks are not watered down and reasonably priced. Good beer on tap too considering it's a tiny town.

Weakest point: the ocassional drunken obnoxious customer that invariably will want to associate with you.
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Bob’s Sports Bar is a great place - it was one that I used to pass by, thinking that I must try it someday. Once I started about 6 months ago, I became a 'regular'. HAVE a seat WHEREVER you'd like and your server will be right with you" This is said EACH and EVERY time you give an order- even though I am a Regular, I hear this, which is nice because it's a reminder and good for when I bring friends along, in case they go another day without me, they already know what to do!

About the menu - spectacular burgers! Burgers are supposed to be juicy, not dry. They are wrapped in a sheet of burger wraps to help keep them together, but if your meat slips out, that just lets you know you are eating a genuine burger!! They have a WIDE variety - from plain, to veggies only, to bleu cheese, bacon, and even Tuna Burgers, Mushroom Burgers, Chicken Sandwiches (grilled and fried), Catfish Sandwich, Tenders and many MANY more choices!

The onion rings are the best I have ever tasted, if you only ask what you can get instead of fries, the host will tell you that you have many other options instead of fries.


The price is perfect for the amount and quality of food you get. I always end up taking like half home with me. And if you are unable to consume an entire adult entree, you DO HAVE THE OPTION of ordering a Kid Plate, made like every thing else…GOOD !!!!!!!..

So if you are curious, just ask! The service there is splendid! I always feel welcome and always know that I will be served with the utmost respect and care! They always have great music going and there is a liveliness to the crowd that visits each day! It's a nice place to eat, visit, and just be merry!!

Thank you Bob’s !!
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You can bet for every complaint sent in there many more that just choose not to show there anger by posting comments here, but to just plain stay away from this area. Bob I took your advise and called the 1-800 number but got a recording with a promise of a return call. I also E-Mailed Craig, But as of this date no return call or E-Mail. To protest this decision to throw the UTV's off the beach, I plan to purchase all goods from from my home town prior to coming down to our home at Crystal Beach. I will just go to Beaumont if we decide to dine out. Maybe by not supporting any bussiness in Chambers County they will get the message and pass it on the people who have decided to enforce this crazy selective issue. No telling what they will come up with next...... read more ...

bob and the rest of the chamber should go to this forum and look how it progerssed from going to the beach to somewhere else , looks to me like you guys are loosing money. Texas 08 UTV Ride - River Run April 18-20  read more ...

I second that motion. byebye read more ...

We left the Freeport area because they shut down the stretch of beach that I grew up riding motorcyles on. Spent several summers in Belize, then decided to keep our money in the U.S. Being able to drive UTV's was a big selling point when we decided to purchase our vacation spot in Bolivar last summer. As a business owner outside of Crystal Beach I was looking for a place to let the stress roll off and have a good time with my family. Instead my blood pressure is rising and I'm considering calling a local realtor to hang the for sale sign out! I can tell you this much if I was a business owner in Crystal Beach I would be doing alot more than referring you to 1-800 #!
So let's see now we have:
NO UTV's
Beach parking permits
an unsolved murder on the beach
Unsafe drinking water (lead) that we're paying a minimum of $50 buck a month for that we can't even drink.
I think we'll just head back to Belize instead!
Since it seems we're catering to the illlegals who can't afford the UTVs let's see how long they can support your high priced menu Bob!
No Bob if I were you I'd either be doing a lot more to get this resolved or I'd be looking to hang your own for sale sign out!
Sorry Bob, but seems like you self-appointed local politician and should do everything in your power to turn this around and quickly.
btw-who was at the meeting when the decision was made to enforce this?
Protest Rally anyone? Let's not just rollover and take this!
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What do you all do? Are there any plans to have the area homeowners to paint and clean up their properties? I think it would really enhance the image in the area. Some of the residential communities near Rollover Pass are very depressing. Who is responsible for clearing the weeds out of the nearby canals that run behing the homes? Are there city or county funds to assist the elderly and low income? read more ...

It was maybe really late at night.. but that hamburger was freaking awesome. Wash it down w/ a cold beer or a mixed drink........ WOW!!!! Biggest freshest burger I have seen in a long time. I know my burgers. This place has it going on !!!!!!
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Brian has the answer folks. Mr. Eliand will be our guest speaker at our annual citizen of the year award dinner, April 22, 2008 @ 7 P.M. Call C/C for details. www.bolivarchamber.org. "EVERYONE who has a UTV, please contact Galveston County Representative Craig Eiland at 1-800-345-2630 to show your concern. This number goes to his Austin Office where they are working with the state to clear up this mess. They are also needing picture of UTV's." We all want this mess cleared up..........and it is a mess. read more ...

I have a question just for clarity. My 4 seater mule is registered as a SMV, insured and plated as a passenger vehicle, and governed not to exceed 25 mph and I just renewed my registration for 2008. Will I be able to drive my registered mule on Crystal Beach without getting hassled every time I turn around? I have really enjoyed the thrill of taking it to the beach and cruising around. I plan to purchase a beach parking pass for both my truck and the mule and was wondering if it is even worth coming to CB again. I still don't get it that golf carts are still legal to drive but not the mule types. My mule is in no way an atv and should not be classified as one. A good number of the golf carts I've seen there are not being driven by licensed drivers either. Something has got to give. I would appreciate some clarity before I load up for a fun day only to be possibly turned away once I get there. read more ...

EVERYONE who has a UTV, please contact Galveston County Representative Craig Eiland at 1-800-345-2630 to show your concern. This number goes to his Austin Office where they are working with the state to clear up this mess. They are also needing picture of UTV's. read more ...

Comal county Tax office makes this matter much more clear.

http://www.co.comal.tx.us/tax_office/Motor_Vehicle/frequently_Asked_Questions.htm#Q._What_about_Golf_Carts_and_miniature_type_vehicles:

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The following is a comment regarding the condition of the beach at 2408 Highway 87 , Gilchrist posted by a recent vacation renter.

At 3/23/2008 9:24 PM a comment was posted to your article Connollyville Too - Gilchrist - Beachfront.

House was ok. Was very sad to see the beach littered with everything from broken beer bottles, medical needles, rope and plastic bottles. Family spent hours everyday cleaning up beach. 8 large trash bags full. Wished every visitor to the area would do the same.
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Free raptor shows will be offered April 3-6 in Galveston as part of FeatherFest 2008.

The shows will be presented by the Raptor Project, a traveling collection of 15 to 20 predatory birds organized by wildlife rehabilitation expert Jonathan Wood of Roxbury, N.Y.

Exhibitions are in Saengerfest Park in Galveston's downtown historic district.

FeatherFest, a nature celebration, includes workshops, field trips, tours and social events. Headquarters is in Old Galveston Square, 2221 The Strand. Workshops will be there, and most field trips and tours depart from there.

FeatherFest: 409-392-0841; www.galvestonfeatherfest.com

Raptor show background: www.raptorproject.com

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Great. I just purchased a Polaris Ranger specifically for our beach cabin. Galveston County Parks Board took my money for a parking permit. I guess the selective law enforcement continues in the area...I can gamble but I can't ride my $12k Polaris on the beach. Chamber of Commerce use your political stroke toto keep the money associated with the operation of flowing through the local economy read more ...

These are indeed interesting facts. I say facts because I have lived here a long time. I have seen the growth. It is about time the waste water issue is addressed. If we do not do something on our own, the state or federal government will step in and that is not necessarily good. Kudos to the water department for addressing this issue. Our current SUD may at first have a problem with this issue because of the mentality of the anti-development crowd, but I am quite sure this can be resolved. read more ...

after reading my post, I noticed that I typedin mark and his staff. Goof-up. I meant Bob and his staff. Mark is my husband. Sorry Mark and Bob. This site is interesting. Should allow a person to go back in or have tools for spell check and other writing features. Just a suggestion. read more ...

The place was packed on a Friday night, but we were seated in 10 minutes just like they promised. Good to see that the place has really caught on----Mark and his staff work hard to earn your business. The staff seems to work together to offer the very best service. Case in point: the owner actually took our order and answered questions about the menu; then we had 3 different servers----one brought out the food; another checked on us asking if everything was ok; a third filled water glasses, brought extra napkins and took care of our check. The staff seems to be unselfish. The result is great service because if you need something you just flag down the first waitperson you see. Wife ordered shrimp----plump and tasty. You have to ask for it, but try their remoulade sauce. They have two, one is spicy, both are very good, and both are excellent to dip fried anything in. I had heard of but never tried a BBQ Po-Boy Basket, so that's what I got. Never been to North Carolina (where the dish comes from), but if theirs are better than Bob’s, then Carolina here I come! read more ...

For those who have attended “FeatherFest” in prior years, we can promise that FeatherFest 2008 will be better than anything before.

It will offer more time to attend and more events to choose from. So don’t be concerned that you will just doing the same thing again, come on back and bring your friends. The festival will again open early on the Thursday and there will be events scheduled throughout Sunday morning and into the afternoon. Our famous “Social” evenings showcasing Historic Galveston will still be very much part of our “show”.

Thursday April 3 through Sunday April 6
www.galvestonfeatherfest.com read more ...

Bob,

I have enjoyed your posts and you sound like a very caring individual. Thanks for being a voice of reason. In one of your earlier posts, you said the Bolivar C of C was going to discuss this issue at your next session. I just wonder if a compromise can be made somehow.

We are a RUV club and were in the planning stages for our 2nd annual UTV Texas Beach Ride and it is a huge disappointment that this issue has arose. We had an awesome time last year on our spring and fall rides and this has affected many families vacation plans this year. We travel to Crystal Beach from all over the state and have invested a lot of money on our beach toys. I don't think anyone realizes the impact that this law will have on the peninsula. I'll go out on a limb and say we were probably some of the most respectful visitors to your beaches last year, even gathering debris from Humberto and helping to pull stuck vehicles from the sand. On the day we broke camp, we made sure the beach was cleaner than when we arrived.

We will miss you and you will miss us. I pray for compromise. read more ...

Michael : Will check this out manana. Been a long day. Spring Break 2008. Going to Sharky's for a cocktail. Hard to drink at ones own establishment with all the law eforcement in check. Life is a BEACH !!!!!!!!!!! read more ...

according to this it seems to say you can ride or someone explain where it says you can not please. read more ...

To Craig McKinley: Craig, I do not know if you know me and I do not know if you have ever been to my establishment. I hope you have. It is a really neat place and I feel that you would have a good time here. Having said that, my hobbies are all but non-existant. Running a restaurant 7 days a week from 10 A.M. until 10 P.M. is quite taxing. Of course that is my choosing. For those that do know me, I am very active in the community and the issue at hand. Folks this is not about money. This is about what a bunch of you are no longer able to do. If I did not care, I would quit posting. I am on your side along with other people such as you. There are many residents that are having this same concern and some if not most of them may never have even stepped in this restaurants front door. For those of you that do know me.........well I guess enough said. BOB read more ...

read this real carefully this was passed 2007


H.B. No. 2127



AN ACT
relating to the operation of all-terrain vehicles in connection
with utility work.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 663.037, Transportation Code, is amended
by amending Subsection (d) and adding Subsection (d-1) to read as
follows:
(d) The operator of an all-terrain vehicle may drive the
vehicle on a public street, road, or highway that is not an
interstate or limited-access highway if:
(1) the transportation is in connection with:
(A) the production, cultivation, care,
harvesting, preserving, drying, processing, canning, storing,
handling, shipping, marketing, selling, or use of agricultural
products, as defined by Section 52.002, Agriculture Code; or
(B) utility work performed by a utility;
(2) the operator attaches to the back of the vehicle on
top of an eight-foot-long pole a triangular orange flag;
(3) the vehicle's headlights and taillights are
illuminated;
(4) the operator holds a driver's license, as defined
by Section 521.001;
(5) the operation of the all-terrain vehicle occurs in
the daytime; and
(6) the operation of the all-terrain vehicle does not
exceed a distance of 25 miles from the point of origin to the
destination.
(d-1) Provisions of this code regarding helmet and eye
protection use, safety certification, and other vehicular
restrictions do not apply to Subsection (d) [this subsection].
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2007.


______________________________ ______________________________
President of the Senate Speaker of the House


I certify that H.B. No. 2127 was passed by the House on April
13, 2007, by the following vote: Yeas 143, Nays 0, 2 present, not
voting.

______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House


I certify that H.B. No. 2127 was passed by the Senate on May
10, 2007, by the following vote: Yeas 31, Nays 0.

______________________________
Secretary of the Senate
APPROVED: _____________________
Date

_____________________
Governor
 read more ...

Bob,

The only reason I mention Federal law, is that it takes precedent over state law. While this may sound sinister to some, fact is that's how we end up having reasonably similar laws between states...the states are granted the right to pass laws by the fed but they have to comply with things like the constitution. This can come in handy in certain cases, such as when you happen to find a state is violating your civil rights for instance. Easy to poke fun at this concept unless you find you are the one on the short end of the stick. Enough of that. Regarding this issue, though, I am unaware of what special interest pushed this through. I doubt it was golf cart owners, they are probably in line to be screwed next. What I'm really wondering at this point is the legality and justification for rescinding what I bought and paid for when I registered my vehicles. I paid sales tax, bridge tax, registration fees, title fees, automation fees, license fees,all these were paid for a single purpose,the right to use this vehicle in the manner specified when I registered it. So, the state's saying "Deal's Off?" Don't expect me or others to just lay down for this. Some things are worth fighting for. read more ...

i for one am going to start bitchin about golf carts anyplace i can , but im sure allowances will be made for them, or maybe you can pass a law that says you can only ride a golf cart you rent in cb. total bs  read more ...

All this sounds really nice but the fact is I can't take my family to your beach to ride my Rhino for the weekend with my UTV friends. How are we gonna fix that?

Bob, do you really care that WE can't ride our UTV's or are you more concerned about the money the I wont be spending at your place or the rest of business in Bolivar? Really?

What do you do for past time enjoyment and entertainment? Think about how somthing like this would affect you hobbies. I have no reason to bash you but out of all of the people who have commented on this post who could really have any influence on this matter? People like you. The business owners can make a difference over someone like me that has no vested interest in the place, only part time enjoyment.

While I'm writing this I'm stilling trying to figure why golf carts are ok......I just don't get it.

I'm also still waiting on an explanation from JAG in regards to why it's such a big deal for me to ride my Rhino on the beach....not the dunes but the beach. How much damage does my Rhino do in comparison to my 3/4 ton diesel truck? Maybe I'm the stupid one.......I just don't get it. read more ...

The feds have nothing whatsoever to do with the beach. This is the beach governed by the State of Texas. The federal government does have control over somehighway and Federally owned property such as wildlife refuges, Parks and the like, Please do not attempt to bring in the Federal Gov. on this one. Wrong to do so. read more ...

Wellll, as the proud owner of EIGHTdiesel trans Mules, all titled and licensed prior to this law, I've got to comment. Numero uno....if a "golf cart" is modified for street use, and goes over (I need to go back and read the code of federal regs to be sure but I think it's 15 mph), then guess what? It's not a golf cart by fed law. If it has the mods to make it street legal per neighborhood electrical vehicle statues it is no longer a golf cart. This was all carefully worded by golf cart mfgs who wanted no part of liability for modified carts running the street. The person who does the mods is the manufacturer by fed law. Last I checked, fed law takes precedent over state. The feds, however, GRANT THE ABILITY TO ALLOW OR DISALLOW THE USE OF THESE VEHICLES BY THE PUBLIC TO MUNICIPALITIES. Also, before I took such a big stake in mule ownership, I researched this issue exhaustively. Our mules are neighborhood electric vehicles licensed under the lslow moving vehicle regs for the state. (If you google "code federal regulations neighborhood electric vehicle" you will also see that these vehicles to not have to be electric powered.) I don't know, but I do intend to find out, who greased "The Leg" to get this even more confusing law passed, but the hammer is going to come down on "golf carts" too if this deal is enforced. Exactly what they were considering when they decided to make some of the most fuel efficient, easy on resource vehicles illegal in this day and age is anyone's guess. Read the "cfr's.  read more ...

Craig : Good points. I have the actuall copy of the law enacted in 2003 that pertains to golf carts on the beach. It is from the State and County. It is somewhat ironic that in 2007, the State enacted a new law that mentions golf carts but not near as well defined as the 2003 version. I have a copy at the restaurant if you want it. BOB Copies of both i may add. You damn near need to be a lawyer to figure it out. I am just a business owner on the beach along with the others that really want all the folks we can to come down and visit out establishments. The bolivar peninsula has undergone many changse over the past 7 years and I think it's called growing pains. We all experience them and learn from them. Or at least, thats is what should happen. read more ...

Craig, there is no guaranty.

I have friends who bought UTV's specifically to ride on the beach.

Last year Mules, Rangers, Rhinos, & Prowlers were allowed to operate on the beach.
We even rode to establishments like Bob's,
no problems.

My guess is that we were in a gray area
that the State of Texas saw fit to clarify
because they seem to be Hellbent to stop any recreational activity that involves internal combustion.

Now GCSO is gonna free the beach of us outlaws.

Next year
or even next month
they may go after Golf Carts.

They should
because they are in violation of several laws.

There are a number of us that have decided that just for plain orneriness
we are goin' to document the Golf Carts on the beach
because we ALL want a safe beach, right???

One has to wonder why Galveston County has not put up signs advising the public of the conditions & requirements so golf carts can be used on the beach like they did for ATV's & UTV's.

It IS a messy business when you start following the letter of the law with one group
and exclude another.

( aka : Discrimination )

-------

As far as the difference between a Mustang GT
an my Ranger
my Ranger weighs 1,150#
and has a 700cc motor.
It has a bed in back
that often has bagged trash or debris that my family has collected off the beach.

In all my time on the beach last year
I never have seen a Mustang
or any other 'legal' vehicle that did less damage to the beach.

Although I saw a number of them speeding,
tearin' the beach up
and slingin' trash out the windows.

 read more ...

I beleive the problem comes in when a slow-moving vehicle emblem is mounted on a vehicle that can travel faster than a slow-moving vehicle can go legally. Mules are designed by the factory to go less than 25 mph, so are golf-carts. I believe the intent is to keep fast-moving vehicles from displaying the Slow-moving emblem. How is a Rhino with a slow-moving emblem any different from a Mustang GT displaying a slow-moving emblem? Slow-Moving means that it can only go slow. Get it? read more ...

After reading futher and getting more confused. I conceed the fact that UTV's are now ATV's and not allowed on public roads and beaches. The question I now have is: If I sell my Polaris Ranger and buy a golf cart, do I have to trailer it to the beach? It appears that golf carts are only allowed in Master Planned Communities or within 2 miles of a golf course. The Law does allow golf carts on the beach but can someone tell me where I can find the Law that allows me to drive a golf cart to and from the beach on a public road? There are a couple of new developments on Bolivar that have private roads and it appears they can drive to and from the beach on private roads but what about all the older subdivisions that have roads maintained by the County? Before I sell my Polaris and buy a golf cart, I want to be assurred I can drive it to the beach and don't have to trailer it to the beach.  read more ...

Thanks Darrell...........I appreciate the comment. Again, I can assure you that all the business owners are concerned and you can believe me when I say that our C of C is also concerned. The chamber is only a group of business owners and other concerned citizens and in NO WAY do we create or enforce any law. Sometimes I wish we could. I will miss you guys and girls. This is really a neat place. I wish I was not Bob at times so I could actually enjoy the beach. Most of us that work down here don't even have the time to go to the beach. We live on the beach but that does not mean we go there. And that is a real shame. read more ...

I meant to say we ain't gonna show up after the part about hurricanes & rapists.

( remind me not to post when I'm dead tired ) read more ...

I guess none of this is here or there.

GCSO thinks UTV's should not be there
an that pretty well settles that IMHO.

I think there's a whole lotta BS & hearsay on this issue.
People quote chapter & verse on UTV's
an then spout hearsay on Golf Carts.

Personally,
I think next year it will be Golf Carts in the crosshairs.
Just like we watched ATV's get it while we rode w/o any hassles last year.

Bob, I at least apprieciate you do'n your best on this.
I think that the Bolivar C of C is gonna loose a chunk of revenue off of this deal.
An the County Officials can say whatever they please
but in the end
a large number of us
that showed up with our $10k UTV's & $30-50k ToyHaulers
bought permits, rented stuff, bought goods, an dined frequently
even though everyone else was freakin' over hurricanes, murderers, an rapists in CB.

In this economy
blamin' Austin ain't gonna pay Bob's bills or employees.

Good luck you all of you. read more ...

Craig : You really don't mean that do you ? If I were to own one, which I wish I could, I would expect to receive the same treatment as everyone else. Could you imagine the uproar that would occur if I was not given a citation and others were. Especially if the people that saw me riding one and they were ticketed. Those people then would have every riight to take it to court. Now come on.........let's be fair about this. read more ...

I agree that Bolivar doesn't make the rules but I do believe there is selective choices to what is overlooked and what is not. I believe if Bob had a Rhino he would be able to ride his on the beach and nothing would be said. Can I get an amen?

However I can say this for me: I will not be back to Bolivar. I can't afford to make plans to spend the weekend on the beach when there MAY be a risk of receiving a citation. It's just not worth having to look over my should the whole time.

The times we spent on the beach with our UTV friends have been some of the most memorable times ever...........thanks folks / friends! They may not have seemed like a big deal but my two boys get excited everytime something is said about another beach ride. Oh well, guess that wont be an issue again.

As far as JAG: Your stupid! Enough said.

 read more ...

OK....Last One...!!!
I believe the State of Texas has a fleet of "Mule" type vehicles they use along highways for maintence of right of ways. I've seen TxDot workers riding along Interstate 10 going to Beaumont doing weedeating around bridges and guardrails.

Question: Why are State owned "Mule" vehicles are NOT ATV's but if I ride my Polaris on the beach, it's an ATV...??? Is this what they call a double standard...??? Maybe the State of Texas needs to replace ALL their "Gators & Mules"...!!! read more ...

One last comment......Why is TxDot allowed to operate an ATV on a public road/hwy...??? The Galveston Ferry Operations uses an ATV (John Deer Gator) to pick up trash at the ferry landings.

So, does that mean John Deer Utility Vehicles are not ATV's...??? If so, then they can be driven on the beach. If NOT, then the Sheriff's Dept. needs to issue tickets to TxDot employees for operating an ATV on a public road/Hwy.

Ummmmm.....Maybe the State of Texas needs to replace ALL their John Deer ATV's and other Utility Vehicles with Golf Carts........!!!

 read more ...

My Mule was registered as a slow moving vehicle in march of 07 and issued tags by TxDOT. When TxDot registered the Mule, they classified it as a Golf Cart and therefore it does not require a safety inspection sticker, but you do have to display a orange triangle on the back of the Mule. One of the qualifiers for the Slow moving vehicle registration is that the machine must be goverend by the factory to do no more than 25 miles per hour. I just received my tag renewal notice in the mail last week and I will be renewing them next week. This registration took place before HB 3849 was passed
( Reclassification of a UV to ATV ). So I have a legal tagged slow moving vehicle that TxDot has approved for me to ride on any public road to which the speed limit does not exceed 35 miles an hour. So when I get stopped by one of the County Officers on the beach, what will they write me a citation for? I have a legal tagged vehicle.
On another note, I e-mailed TxDot to ask them about riding the Mule on the Beach in Crystal Beach beings it is considered a Tx Hwy. TxDot e-mailed me back and said that the Beach is NOT a Tx Hwy and that it is the Texas Land Office jurisdiction. My Wife was raised on the peninsula and I have lived here for 31 years. We have seen a lot of changes take place and a lot of rules come and go, but no matter how this turns out, we love the beach and will stay, but it will be very hard for us to promote the beach as a friendly place for tourist to visit. read more ...

AMEN !!!!! read more ...

John Deer and Kabota manufacture "Mule" type vehicles that are the same as the Mule and Polaris but they are manufactured a Farm & Lawn Care vehicles. So, they are not classified as ATV's by the law. Does that mean you can drive them on the beach?

Maybe if I throw a bale of hay, shovel and rake in the back of my Polaris it will be a "Farm or Lawn Care" vehicle and be allowed on the beach? Maybe I could replace my Polaris Body with an EZ-GO Body and it will be a Golf Cart?

Maybe the State of Texas just needs to enforce the speed limits and reckless driving on the beach. I personally think it's the drivers that destroy the Beaches NOT the type of vehicle. I've never seen a Mule or Polaris driving on the beach covered in sand.....but, I see many pick-up trucks driving that are covered with sand. I guess a Mule or Polaris must have thrown all that sand on the pick-up trucks...!!!

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This will be my last post on this subject. I am really and truly sorry that everyone is so upset about this. There are three things that I am certain of. #1. No one on this peninsula enacts this or any other law. #2. The Chamber of Commerce along with the business owners and many other local residents that have such vehicles are also not happy with the new law. #3. I can assure all of you that I will not be on the beach giving out warnings or citations. I do hope that you continue to patronage Bob's if you choose to come to the peninsula. I am certain also that I would feel the same way if I owned such a vehicle. read more ...

to many laws , cant get bait half the time because of regulations , no atv,s no mules ,beach parking permit, and probly next a permit just to get in the water, and cops that sit on the ferry and wright tickets for inspection and passing gas i expect. but thats fine if thats what you want but enough for me. humm lousiana is really not that far either is it . read more ...

TRANSPORTATION CODE

CHAPTER 663. ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLES

SUBCHAPTER A. GENERAL PROVISIONS


§ 663.001. DEFINITIONS. In this chapter:
(1) "All-terrain vehicle" means a motor vehicle that
is:
(A) equipped with a saddle for the use of:
(i) the rider; and
(ii) a passenger, if the motor vehicle is
designed by the manufacturer to transport a passenger;
(B) designed to propel itself with three or four
tires in contact with the ground;
(C) designed by the manufacturer for off-highway
use by the operator only; and
(D) not designed by the manufacturer for farming
or lawn care.
(2) "Public property" means property owned or leased
by the state or a political subdivision of the state.

well bob look at D the mule is designed for farming use . so it is not a atv . read more ...

The new law states:
"All-Terrain means a vehicle NOT designed by the manufacturer primarily for farming or lawn care"

Toro makes a "Workman 4200" which is a 4x4 with a 31 horsepower liquid cooled vehicle for Sports Fields & Grounds Maintenance. This type of vehicle could be driven on the beach. Can someone explain the difference between a Toro Workman and a Polaris or Mule...??? read more ...

Michael.....here is the Transportation Code for golf carts. You must have missed something with your last post. Texas Transportation Code - Section 502.0071. Golf Carts
Legal Research Home > Texas Lawyer > Transportation Code > Texas Transportation Code - Section 502.0071. Golf Carts




§ 502.0071. GOLF CARTS. An owner of a golf cart is not
required to register the golf cart if:
(1) the operation of the golf cart occurs in the
daytime, as defined by Section 541.401; and
(2) the operation:
(A) does not exceed a distance of two miles from
the point of origin to the destination if driven to and from a golf
course;
(B) occurs entirely within a master planned
community with a uniform set of restrictive covenants that has had a
plat approved by a county or a municipality; or
(C) occurs on a public or private beach.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1320, § 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.


Section: Previous 502.0022 502.0025 502.003 502.004 502.005 502.006 502.007 502.0071 502.0072 502.0073 502.0074 502.0075 502.0078 502.0079 502.008 Next
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Last modified: August 10, 2007
 read more ...

Once again, we do not make any laws on The Bolivar Peninsula. I wish we could at times. Here is the link to the State of Texas Transportation Codes. http://tlo2.tlc.state.tx.us/statutes/tn.toc.htm read more ...

Those golf carts not meeting the criteria in subparagraph (A)(i)-(iv) of this paragraph are not required to be registered, and are also exempt from Transportation Code, Chapter 547 and Transportation Code, §601.051, if the golf cart is driven to or from a golf course and operated:


(i)

in the daytime and the operation does not exceed a distance of two miles from the point of origin to the destination; or


(ii)

entirely within a master planned community with a uniform set of restrictive covenants that has had a plat approved by a county or municipality.


(D)

Operation of any golf cart, except those detailed in subparagraphs (A) and (C) of this paragraph, on public property or other property where the state has law enforcement jurisdiction, requires registration in accordance with current registration laws. Whether a vehicle is designed as a 4-wheeled truck, 4-wheeled passenger, or 3-wheeled motorcycle determines the classification under which the golf cart must be registered. These golf carts are not exempt from Transportation Code, Chapter 547 and Transportation Code, §601.051.


(21)

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OHH AND BY THE WAY THE LAW STATES THAT GOLF CARTS CAN ONLY BE DRIVEN IN MASTER PLANED COMMUNITYS AND 2 MILKES FROM A GOLF COURSE. read more ...

WELL BOB YOUR REASON THAT THEY ARE NOT ISUING TITLES TO MULES ANYMORE ARE WRONG . I BOUGHT MINE 6 WEEKS AGO AND NOW HAVE PLATES ON IT . I BELIVE THE POWERS TO BE AT BOLIVER HAVE ALOT TO DO WITH THIS. WE ALL KNOW THAT ALL LAWS ARE NOT ENFORCED ONLY THE ONES HIGHER AUTHORITY WANTS TO ENFORCE . SO I THINK YOUR REASON IS A SNOW JOB . SO DO NOT LOOK FOR ME OR MY FRIENDS AT THE BEACH. read more ...

I am in total awe of the birds coming home for summertime. I will get my hummingbird feeders ready ASAP. I also am deeply considering purchasing one of the Audubon Homes. They appear to be built well and because they are so high up, I think I will be able to see more birds than the watchers along the Highway.  read more ...

One more question..does it have inspection sticker ? read more ...

When did the state issue you plates and when do they expire. Reason for question is that the law took effect Sep. 1 2007. read more ...

I have a polaris ranger that i have titles and registered with the state of texas.I have also put a slow moving orange triangle,turn signals,horn and INSURANCE THAT HAS COVERAGES LIKE A TRUCK OR CAR.Why would the state send me a title,take my 103.00 dollars give me texas truck license plates and then tell me i cannot ride it on the beach. can someone tell me the answer.Thanks  read more ...

Darrell..........No one on this beach changed any law. It was the State of Texas that did. There are many laws i don't agree with but I as most people abide by them. You need to call your state represenatives. These are the folks that we elect and these are the folks that make the rules. If we don't like what they do, then we vote them out. But before doing that, notify them and voice your concerns. I have. read more ...

Any vehicle with a license plate on it can drive on beach, no matter what it looks like - and Golf Carts. read more ...

I agree Christy! I believe everyone that lives here understands the law as well.  read more ...

The Texas legislature makes the law Darrell. These laws apply to the entire state of Texas - Not just Bolivar Peninsula beaches. I love all the comments & encourage everyone to participate, but please understand the Bolivar Chamber doesn't have the authority to pass laws. And neither does Bolivar business owners. read more ...

So let me get this strait :

Golf carts are "authorized"?

Who authorized them if there is no entity to authorize Mules?

Maybe the same people who RENT them???

 read more ...

Well folks, there is good news and bad news. I will begin with the bad news first. At last night’s Chamber of Commerce meeting, our sheriff was concerned enough to send four deputies to our meeting. To put it quite simple, the only authorized utility type vehicle allowed on the beach is a golf cart. This was not done by anyone from Galveston County, The Bolivar Peninsula or any municipality along the Texas coast. This law was enacted by the State of Texas and signed into legislation and approved by our Governor on June 15, 2007 to be effective September 1, 2007. This law was placed into effect by our state senators and legislators during the 2007 legislative session. Our only recourse now is to notify our representatives and speak out against this and hope they amend the law during the next session that will begin in February 2009. The deputies are only doing what the law says to do. I was present during the meeting and am convinced that our Green and Whites want all to have a good time but they must uphold the law. They will at first give a warning. After that they will be forced to give a citation. They are only enforcing the law. As some of you may not be aware of, The Bolivar Peninsula is unincorporated and has no way of making exceptions. We are not a city. The Chamber of Commerce tries very hard to nudge the County and State on issues that affect the people that live here, the people that visit here, and provides fundraisers such as The Crab fest Festival on Mother’s Day Weekend, The Crystaland Xmas Parade held in December of each year, The Mardi Gras Parade and other events to provide scholarships to the kids, help with medical expenses for the underprivileged and Xmas presents for needy families. We do the best we can under the circumstances. Now for the good news. The Bolivar Peninsula is one of the few remaining beaches where you are still allowed to drive your car or truck on the beach. This applies to the entire US coastline. This is a good thing. We all appreciate your patronage and sincerely hope that you will continue to come and enjoy yourself with your friends and families for this truly unique and fun place………………..BOB Bob’s Sports Bar. read more ...

Jag.....Since you feel strongly enough on this issue to post against the utv, could you comment as to why you feel that way towards them as opposed to golf carts. I'm not trying flame just trying to see what others have against them. We (my family and I) have been enjoying Bolivar for 8 years and last year we sold our golf cart and bought a utv. On my first ride with the utv I talked to a sheriff deputy while putting gas in it about the legality of riding the utv on the beach. He told me as long as I ride it like a golf cart they would treat it like a golf cart. This seems to have changed now and I am wondering why this became an issue.  read more ...

I would like to address the issue of 4-wheel UTV's on the beaches. I am currently, and have been a law enforcement officer for 17 years. I have been coming to Bolivar beaches since I was a child. During the years I have noticed that there have been numerous cases of selective enforcement of state traffic laws on the beaches. By this I mean, one year there were no 3-wheelers allowed on the beaches or any unlicensed motorcycles. The next year you could ride them as long as it was done responsibly. To the best of my knowledge, there was no change in traffic laws yet there was a definite change in enforcement. Now after several years of being able to ride UTV's on the beaches, I hear that we wont be able to this year. This stems from an apparent clarification of the traffic code that now includes UTV's in the ATV category. I find this amusing knowing that the legislators that sponsored this bill intentionally left a "loophole" for golf-carts (either battery powered or gas, 2 or 4-wheel drive, that go as fast as a Mule or Ranger) so they can enjoy their evening rides through their neighborhoods without fear or a traffic violation. This is bad news for people such as myself who have purchased a UTV for thousands of dollars for use on the beach and have gone as far as to purchase property on the Penninsula. I spent at least 7 weekends at the beach last year and saw far more incidents of people in cars and trucks driving irresponsibly than I did people on UTV's. The simple solution to this is to continue to allow the UTV's on the beaches with the Bolivar stickers on them, and have the Galveston Sheriff's Office just regulate the speed limits and common sense enforcement of the other traffic laws. It will be a shame if the Bolivar Chamber cannot resolve this issue because it is guaranteed to cost the County untold dollars in revenue. The same revenue that pays the taxes that pay the salaries of everyone involved.  read more ...

Keep the ban! Thats why we love Crystal Beach and keep coming back. I think there are more of us that prefer them banned than not with plenty of money to spend as well! read more ...

This is one of the most family friendly places to stay. Safe for women and children to come with no husband or male esscort. The grandchildren can crab, ride their bikes or just hang out on the pier. My kids and grandkids have been coming here all their life. We love it and we need a break there again SOON!!!!!!!!! Have anything available? read more ...

Starting in 2007, daylight time begins in the United States on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.

On the second Sunday in March, clocks are set ahead one hour at 2:00 a.m. local standard time, which becomes 3:00 a.m. local daylight time.

On the first Sunday in November, clocks are set back one hour at 2:00 a.m. local daylight time, which becomes 1:00 a.m. local standard time.

These dates were established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, Pub. L. no. 109-58, 119 Stat 594 (2005).

Not all places in the U.S. observe daylight time. In particular, Hawaii and most of Arizona do not use it. Indiana adopted its use beginning in 2006.

* In 2006, daylight time begins on April 2 and ends on October 29.
* In 2007, daylight time begins on March 11 and ends on November 4. [New law goes into effect.]
* In 2008, daylight time begins on March 9 and ends on November 2.
* In 2009, daylight time begins on March 8 and ends on November 1.

Many other countries observe some form of "summer time", but they do not necessarily change their clocks on the same dates as the U.S. read more ...

If you let the Illegals cruse the beaches with no stickers Why not mules?
I get tired of the noise of 4 wheelers on the north side of Port Bolivar all Winter.
Let them on the beach.
Oh Yes leave the commints up they are important, read more ...

( whups, hit enter too soon )

...rather not drive to OK to cruise around in my beach buggy. read more ...

Oh my gosh, this is the best hamburger we have ever eaten!!! It is not fast food - they cook it when you order it. The fries were fabulous. This burger just melts in your maouth. My entire family was impressed. We will definitely make this our usual hamburger place.
 read more ...

That's good news Bob.
Been to your place several times last year.

Here's just one large group that is goin' elsewhere :
http://utilityoffroad.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=15063

I know of several others on private boards that are cancelin' trips to Bolivar due to this deal.





Times are tough
an I would rather not drive to Oklahoma to  read more ...

Have a little patience folks. As a board member of the Chamber of Commerce, we are all concerned about this. We meet this coming Tuesday and this will be addresed. You can be assured that The Chamber will do everything possible to make this work out for all of the tourist and people that come here to visit and spend their hard earned dollars. We appreciate all the feedback and will be back in touch with you ASAP. We also appreciate the fact that you come to our home and have a good time. We will do all we can to continue having you visit and have a good time. read more ...

You may have noticed that March of this year was particularly hot. As a matter of fact, I understand that it was the hottest March since the beginning of the last century. All of the trees were fully leafed out and legions of bugs and snakes were crawling around during a time in Arkansas when, on a normal year, we might see a snowflake or two.

This should come as no surprise to any reasonable person. As you know, Daylight Saving Time started almost a month early this year. You would think that members of Congress would have considered the warming effect that an extra hour of daylight would have on our climate. Or did they?

Perhaps this is another plot by a liberal Congress to make us believe that global warming is a real threat. Perhaps next time there should be serious studies performed before Congress passes laws with such far-reaching effects.

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Apparently the golf, outdoor cooking, and candy industries, among others, pushed to extend Daylight Saving Time because of how much more money they will make as a result of the later daylight hours. We're talking hundreds of millions of dollars of additional golf clubs, greens fees, and grills purchased. And, since we won't be falling back until after Halloween, more kids will be out trick or treating, which means more candy. Everybody wins.

Of course, the bill that codified the change wasn't called the Golfing & Grilling Act; it was called the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and the Daylight Saving change was enacted with an eye toward reducing our energy consumption by 1%. On the face of it, this makes sense; the later it stays light, the later we go until we turn our lights and heat on, and the more energy we save (maybe as much as 100,000 barrels, say the co-sponsors of the Energy Policy Act). What this analysis misses, though, is a key point: when Americans have more daylight free time, they spend it in their cars. Whether it's going to the golf course, or heading to the mall to buy a new grill, or just running a few errands, we invariably drive more when it's light out later. While I haven't seen any studies quantifying how much more we drive, I fear that any electricity and fuel oil savings would be more than counteracted by increased fossil fuel consumption, which has the double impact of not only increasing our use of (foreign) oil, but of damaging the environment as well.
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For those of you who skipped a flu shot this year, you may still be able to get vaccinated (check with your doctor).

Tips For Staying Well:

- If you are at high risk, your doctor may recommend an antiviral medicine to protect you from the flu, although more drug resistance is being seen this year.
- Wash, wash, wash those hands. Better yet, use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. These kill virus germs on your skin better than soap and water.
- Flu and cold viruses usually are passed on by hand contact, so try to avoid touching door knobs, telephones, etc., where viruses can live; keep your hands away from your eyes and nose, so you don’t inoculate yourself with those viruses.
- Stay home when you’re sick, and avoid close contact with others who are sick.
- As always, check with your doctor if your symptoms persist or become severe, especially if you have any chronic illness or if you are elderly.

Helpful Herbs and Supplements

In addition, several herbs and other dietary supplements are used to prevent or treat the flu as well as colds. Many of these are felt to work by “boosting” the immune system.

They include:

- Elderberry: This herb may shorten the duration of flu symptoms, including muscle aches and fever. Sambucol is a standardized elderberry extract that is used for this; the dose is four tablespoons per day for three days.
- The herbs andrographis (sold as the proprietary product Kan Jang) and Echinacea: These may modestly reduce symptoms of a cold, but evidence for their effect on the flu is not as strong.
- Panax ginseng: This herb may prevent the flu and also improve your response to the flu vaccine; 100 mg per day needs to be taken for four weeks prior to your flu vaccine and continued for eight weeks after.
- Zinc and selenium supplements: These may improve flu vaccine response in the elderly, but probably only in people who are deficient in these minerals. You should be able to get enough of both in a standard multivitamin.
- Zinc lozenges or zinc gluconate nasal gels: These may reduce the duration of colds if started within 48 hours of onset of symptoms. Use them for about seven days, then stop; too much zinc leads to copper malabsorption and anemia.
- Other herbs and supplements that have been used to prevent or treat the flu include astragalus, garlic and high-dose vitamin C, but the jury is still out on these.

What else helps with prevention?

Be sure to get enough sleep. Deep-stage sleep helps to keep your immune system healthy.

Eat lots of produce to boost your intake of vitamin C and other antioxidants.

Try to exercise every day, but don’t overdo it. Extreme exercise, like running a marathon, actually suppresses your immune system and can put you at risk for infection.

De-stress and laugh every day. Stress-reducers like tai chi and laugh-inducers like funny movies seem to give the immune system a boost. read more ...

I also agree with the prior posts regarding banning Mule type vehicles from the beach. Me and my family also enjoyed camping and riding on your beach. And supporting your area merchants.

Since my UTV is registered for legal use on the roads of Texas, why is it not legal to operate on your beach? My UTV was given a classification of "Golf Cart" on it's title by the great State of Texas. My understanding is that you allow golf carts to operate on your beaches. Does this mean that you do not recognize the State of Texas's vehicle classification system? If you did, then showing my title to your law enforcement officers with it's "golf cart" classification should be good enough to allow me to operate it on your beaches.

Please consider allowing those UTV operators who can produce a State of Texas title showing their vehicle classification as "golf cart" to continue to enjoy your beaches. Also, you get added tourist dollars as a bonus. read more ...

I agree with all of the above comments. My family along with several other families made many trips to YOUR beach last year to enjoy our UTV's (Utility Terrain Vehicle - Mule type vehicles). We camped out, spent our money at YOUR retail shops, bought YOUR gas and diesel and ate at YOUR diners (Tiki Hut). We were planning another trip this April with the same group of family folks but this new law has destroyed our get-together. Another fine example of pushing the little man to the wayside. I also have to ask why golf carts allowed and not the "Mule type vehicles?" I think it may have something to do with who influences the laws and how it affects them. Who owns the golf cart rental business in Crystal? Does the Mayor have an investment in these businesses? Is it the local politicians and other $$$ people that are too fat and LAZY to get out and walk so they manipulate the laws to allow for their golf carts but nothing else? It works out well for the golf cart owners but no one else.

You, Boliver Chamber of Commerce, should reply to all of these post with an answer that is resonable not political. Do not ignore our concerns. Just because this may mean very little to you it is a big deal to some of us. read more ...

My family has been spending the last four years on the Bolivar Pen enjoying ourselves. We lease a spot for our RV and boat year round. We fish, shop, eat out, buy gasoline, bait, groceries, ice, etc. We also had a golf cart, but sold it and bought an UTV to enjoy on the beach. Before buying our $10,000 UTV we inquired about the rules regarding UTVs on the beach and were told they were allowed and treated the same as a golf cart. It is my understanding UTVs are no longer allowed, so I will be looking for another area to spend my tourist dollars.  read more ...

Please help me understand. I have a couple questions. If a golf cart is not registered for highway use and the beach is considered a highway, how is it any more legal to drive that golf cart on the beach than "mule type vehicles"? If the answer is because the state uses the term ATV and mules are ATVs then my other question is: When does a "golf cart" become an ATV? 90% of the golf carts on the beach are lifted and have ATV tires on them. I've even seen true 4X4 "golf carts" there. Are they not considered an ATV? In my opinion, of all the illegal activities (if you call peacefully riding a mule on the beach illegal) that go on at that beach it seems you are targeting the wrong group. I guess you have to start somewhere. read more ...

So long Bolivar, we had a blast last year. We made 5 trips down to camp on the beach. Never cooked one meal, went out to eat breakfast, lunch & dinner. Bought all the goods we needed locally to support your merchants. Gladly paid for our beach parking permits. We won't be back due to the banning of 'mule type vehicles' on your beaches. You will find that there were quite a few of us, families that didn't run around naked and stay all night. Just good people that enjoyed your beaches and left our money. It was great while it lasted.  read more ...

I'm addicted to Bob's Sport Bar. SERIOUSLY, I CAN'T STOP EATING AT BOB'S. When I'm feeling like I need to watch my waistline I love the chicken and veggies or chicken sandwich. When I want to splurge I go for the juicy fresh cheeseburger. Everything made from scratch in the back - are you kidding, nobody else does that in the restaurant industry. Bob's has friendly employees and a great family atmosphere that is also quite upscale for the beach. People think it's expensive, but the truth is you get what you pay for . . . Bob's is the best VALUE in town. Try a Bob's Steak Dinner, and you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. And, those fries are out of this world. Maybe not good for the waistline, but sure are good when you bite into them. The place by the way, has THE LOCK on the crab nachos. I'm getting hungry by just writing this review. I just left the place an hour or so ago.
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This is fantastic. Thank you so much. For all of us weekenders down on Bolivar, this is a godsend. read more ...

Great place to meet with friends, plenty of laughs and good times to be had.
Not to mention the daily events, special events, and the community support. via fund raisers, daily meals etc:

Then you have the Saturday Pool Tournament it starts @ 7:00pm, more fun then one person can stand.

Come on down shoot, I will play you a game of billiards or shuffle board.

If I am not there, have them call Sidewinder!

See you there! read more ...

Husband and I came to the beach yesterday. We are from the Clear Lake area and thought in the morning we would go down to the beach with the beautiful weather forecast, By t