50 Years Strong – What an Incredible Night for Bolivar Peninsula!

By The Bolivar Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Facebook

  We gathered at Camp Margaritaville Resort Crystal Beach to celebrate the Annual Awards Gala and “Reaching New Milestones” of the Bolivar Peninsula Chamber of Commerce — and it was truly an evening to remember.

  We honored milestone members who have shaped our community for decades:

Swedes Real Estate – 75 Years

FOE Crystal Beach Eagles – 50 Years

The Big Store, Cobb Real Estate, and Stingaree Restaurant – 40 Years

These businesses represent resilience, dedication, and the heart of Bolivar.

  We also celebrated our 2026 Community Honorees:

• Citizen of the Year – Mark DeSantis
• Business of the Year – Nauti Beaver Hut
• Volunteer of the Year – Janie Mayfield
• Educator of the Year – Dr. David Walker High Island Independent School District
• Rising Star – Kayla Umbah
• Community Excellence Award – Galveston County, Texas
• Ambassador of the Year – Karen Jewell

  The presenters also recognized all the nominees in each category for their outstanding contributions to the community.

  Each recipient received awards, beautiful bouquets, and official recognition from Terri Leo Wilson and Randy Weber.

  The evening was emceed by Shawna Williams and Jimmy Fullen, with a wonderful dinner, champagne at VIP tables, and stunning décor.

  Commissioner Joseph Giusti delivered the invocation. Mrs. Donna Anding performed the National Anthem, while the Color Guard from Texas A&M Galveston presented the colors during her performance.

  A special thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Cobb Real Estate, along with:

• Crystal Beach One10 Realty Group – Cocktail Hour Sponsor
• Lawn Sharks– Bar Sponsor
• Award Sponsor – Ships Wheel
• Beachy Beatnik Boutique & Jewelry– Dessert Sponsor
• The Salty Mermaid Crystal Beach Tx– After Party Sponsor
• South Land Title – Crystal Beach Duck Hunt Raffle Sponsor and Point Bolivar Sponsor

  And all of our generous supporting sponsors who made the night possible.

• Nathan Watkins for State Representative
• Swedes Real Estate Island Liquor – Crystal Beach, TX
• Priest Insurance Agency
• Capital Title – Crystal Beach
• Coastal Gateway Health

  Professional photographs will be available in a few weeks from www.ahhshoot.com our photography partner!

  The Chamber also recognized outgoing President Beth Boles-Terminella and Directors Maria Cruz and Leanne Comeaux for their dedicated service.

  Small communities shine brightest when businesses and neighbors come together to collaborate, support one another, and lift the Peninsula higher. Here’s to the next 50 years of growth, leadership, and community pride.