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The Bolivar Peninsula is flooded and not accessible
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The Bolivar Peninsula is flooded and is not accessible from the highway or by the Ferry as of 4pm September 13th.

We have not heard of anyone suffering harm, as the winds were not as strong as predicted, but there is flooding that is preventing access to the road and that has created a lot of property damage.

Power is out on the Bolivar Peninsula and Galveston Island; it could take over a week to restore power.

Coast Guard helicopter crews rescued 15 people who had lashed themselves together and were stranded on a church roof on the Bolivar Peninsula.

More Pictures of Bolivar Peninsula



Rollover Pass Before	Rollover Pass After

We will provide accurate and updated information as soon as it is available.

See updated information and pictures at the Bolivar Chamber site here

See U.S. Coast Guard Video here

Comments

By Chris Paschenko The Daily News @ Saturday, September 13, 2008 8:14 PM

Bolivar residents floated to survive

By Chris Paschenko The Daily News
Published September 13, 2008

FROM TEXAS CITY — Bolivar Peninsula communities were covered by the storm surge from Hurricane Ike's early Saturday landfall, and residents told harrowing stories of how they survived by floating until the waters receded.

Texas National Guard helicopters flew many of the evacuees from across the county to a staging area at the Texas City school district's Stingaree Stadium parking lot, where they were loaded onto buses bound for Austin.

Two military helicopters landed at 3:50 p.m. and unloaded about a dozen people and their pets.

While waiting to board a bus, Kathi Norton and her husband Paul Norton said they endured the storm surge from their Crystal Beach home about two blocks from the seaside.

"We got a late start to get out Friday, and there was two feet of water," Kathi Norton said. "There was no way we could get out, because rollover pass was flooded."

As the waves pounded on the Nortons' home standing on 14-foot stilts, they felt the floors buckle.

About midnight, the couple left the home and they watched as it rolled over onto their flagpole.

"We floated on staircases, anything we could get a hold of," Kathi Norton said. "We floated until about 4 a.m. Roofs were coming at us. It was not a

pretty picture."

As the water receded, the Nortons, who lived on Gulf Shores Drive, waded in waist-deep surf to the Crystal Beach post office. They said few homes and none of the businesses withstood the storm.

"My husband made me wear a life jacket inside our house," Norton said. "Thank God for that or I couldn't be here."

The Nortons boarded Texas National Guard helicopters, which flew them to the Brazoria County airport, but there were no evacuation buses set up there, Paul Norton said.

"Then they flew us to Texas City," he said. "They did a great job."

Nigel Heinrich, one of the evacuees, said he endured the storm from his Gilchrist home on the peninsula.

"It's all gone," he said. "We lived on the bay side, and we walked to High Island. There are only about two or three houses left. Everything's totally wiped out. High Island's in pretty bad shape, too."

By The Berry Family @ Saturday, September 13, 2008 9:53 PM

God Bless Crystal Beach and thier residents!

ByCMcB @ Saturday, September 13, 2008 10:04 PM

I was @ Crystal Beach 12 days ago,was with a group of 14 who rented a beachfront house next to a good person named Audene(sp). She was planning to stay for Gustav, hope she didn't stay for this one. If anyone has her info please let me know. The houses were on the west end of CB, behind the school sorta. Lotsa good people there.

By Joel E. Martin @ Saturday, September 13, 2008 10:50 PM

Audine and her dog were airlifted out by USCG.

By Martha @ Saturday, September 13, 2008 10:58 PM

Does anyone know about the addition by
Fort Travis on Bolivar? We have (had) a cabin there?

By J. L. @ Saturday, September 13, 2008 11:12 PM

We have a house on Martinique behind Cobb Realty. If some one sees or hears anything about this location, please let us know.

By G Mitchell @ Saturday, September 13, 2008 11:17 PM

Anyone know about 853 Gulfview... Papawas Palce? please let me know if our house is still standing?

By Norman Smith @ Saturday, September 13, 2008 11:21 PM

Anybody see anything about Canal City. We built in 1959 and next year would have been 50yrs.

By Barbara Lee @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 12:47 AM

a family member spoke with a friend who rode the storm out on fort Travis, His comment was that the north jettys lost about 80% of the houses out there. So sorry, many have lost homes off of french town road as well from what we are told a very sad day, but happy to have my family and friends.

By Denise @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 1:39 AM

any info about Magnolia lane and Johnson Crawford Circle...located near Biscayne?

By Crystal @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 2:45 AM

we have a small place down by the ferry end of Bolivar, this is (was) a weekend get away for studying for my husband and I, BUT his aunt lives two houses down and it's the only place they have. Does anyone know how bad it was hit down at that end?

By GM Mitchell @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 7:04 AM

Emerald Aisle One is gone ! My cousin sent pic from the air as to where our Papawas Place was..ther is nothing in that area left except way in the back. The house was at 853 Gulfview all the surroundings are ..well it is all gone. So sorry also for all of you who have lost your safe havens there. The house was built 50 years ago by my husbands grand dad and his father. Acutally built at his house in Beaumont then moved to the island .Again so sorry for you all.

By Kelly Smales @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 8:29 AM

Does anyone have any news on Tidelands or Tradewinds street? God Bless All

By Ron in Austin @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 8:44 AM

To Ann and the Adams Family in Crystal Beach..Our prayers and thoughts go out ot you guys! Swedes has always been good to us for beach rentals and good times. Can't wait for the re-build and to get back and have drinks with you guys! keep the faith!! Crab Fest rules!!! Ron and Pam Brooks, Austin TX

By Patrick Broussard @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 8:54 AM

We have a cabin on Seagull Lane in Holiday Beach.Does anyone know if this addition survived?
Thank you.
Pat Broussard

By garry williams @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:18 AM

Any information regarding Emerald Beach 2, specifically westview and seaside streets?

By Robin L Young @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:26 AM

Is 2122 vista Dr. still there? Please let me know. God bless to all

ByCJ Young @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:31 AM

If anyone has photos showing Redfish Ln where Crystal Beach Dr. goes down to the beach please send them to c.young@texstarprinting.com

we have a cabin ocean front and have not seen the condition of our cabin, or what Ike left of it.

Thanks.

By Karen Ware @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:36 AM

I have been glued to the TV watching KHOU in Dallas. I left Crystal Beach on Thursday AM prior to the arrival of Ike. I have been waiting for pictures of Crystal Beach and Bolivar. What I see here is just devasting. My prayers are for all those in Bolivar and Galveston County.

By Norma Rogers @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:38 AM

looking for information on home owned at 880 townsend @ ridgeway emerald beach 1
please help with info
thx

By norma @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:08 AM

Emerald Beach #1 Ridgeway @ townsend drive 880 Townsend. Please help to give info on home
May god be with all of us who live on boliver

By J. McElree @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:30 AM

We have a Bayhouse on Johnson Rd., in Bolivar, nearly down to the Intercoastal Canal. Can anyone tell us if that group of houses still stand or sustained damage...???? THANK YOU.

By Shirley Harkness @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:54 AM

Just purchased home at 2307 Trindad at Sandpiper one month ago. Does anyone have info or pics on this area. We have heard that it is all gone in this area, but we just can't believe it.
Any info would be appreciated thanks and God bless all you have cabins down there.

By Sharon Eisenberg @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 11:57 AM

Does anyone know how LaFitte's Landing fared?

By Shirley smith @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 11:59 AM

I am just so glad you are all safe. I heard the Rohacek family is in Marshall and safe.

To the Adams Family, next breakfast is on us!
love u,

Shirley and Russ

By Candace Wahl @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 12:47 PM

Does anyone of news of Copacabana subdivision? I have a home there but have not heard any news. The coast guard video gave me hope that some homes have survived. Thank you to whomever posted that. For anyone who is not aware: http://utube.smashits.com/video/ofvDTeN807I/H...

By Mondie McFaddin @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 12:52 PM

I am wondering if anyone has heard from Bobby Anderson??? He was supposed to leave on Friday and no one has heard from him.....

By Alison Thomas @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 1:25 PM

We were in Crystal Beach just one month ago. Our prayers go out to all the residents of the peninsula. We pray that everyone got out safely. We are so sad that our little piece of paradise was so heavily damaged. God bless you all.

By Keri Kilpatrick @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 1:29 PM

Does anyone know anything about Gregory Lane?Thanks so much!

By Rhonda @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 1:34 PM

Our family's cabin was at Emerald 1 on Holiday Dr., about 7-8 houses back from the beach. Any information about that area? Thanks to you all and God bless!

By Candace Wahl @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 1:35 PM

Picture of Emerald # 1:
http://utube.smashits.com/video/ofvDTeN807I/H...

By Kelly Ortiz @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 2:04 PM

Has anyone heard about the homes at Dunes of Bolivar?

By Christie McGrath @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 2:33 PM

Does anyone know how the beachfront homes in Gulfport Village fared?

By Tracy Kramer @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 2:47 PM

The picture on the top left of this page is Emerald 1. There are 2 structures on beachfront. I believe one of them is Aquamarine. It was not beachfront originally. Hopefully that will help to get an idea of where your house is (or was in our case) from there.

By Don Smith @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 3:32 PM

We have stayed 3x at the Spoonbill. In fact, we rode out Humberto there last year. Can't remember the people's name who own it, It is such a substantial and beautiful house. Anyone know? I have vacationed there all my life and with our married daughter and husband too. We are so saddened.

By Al Sal @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 3:33 PM

Does anyone have any picures or info around Gulfshore drive around the old Patton Edition(first road past the canal on the Gulf side) and how about Rollover Pass

By JJ Qood @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 3:53 PM

Bonnie and Jerry Parker are safe; they are my parents. We have them in Houston. We are also trying to find out about Copacobana subdivision, any news would be greatly appreciated.

By Alexia McGrath @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:13 PM

Does anyone know how well the area behind the school nearest to the fary lading fared, you now the big brick one. If so, my families house is there.

By Chris @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:15 PM

Does anyone know of or have a picture that shows Clara St/ across from the Big Store? The one I keep seeing online cuts the road off barely.

By Alexia McGrath @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:17 PM

I think it was called Gulfport Village, the only pictures we recieved of the house were before Ike hit.

By Mark Chapman @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:23 PM

Im looking for my brother Miles Chapman. He stayed through storm at the Beach Rock Cafe. I have no idea where he is and if the Beach Rock and Mile's garage is still there. It is next the Sharkys in Crystal Beach. if anyone has info, call 828-443-2537 or email us. Thanks and God Bless

By Shannon @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:28 PM

Does anyone know anything about the beachhouse at 958 Womack. It was situated west of the canal on the N side of the street. It is mocha colored with a blue roof and decks in front, side and back of the cabin. We sold it one year ago, but prior to that it had been in my family for at least 30 years. I love Crystal Beach, and my heart breaks for the loss and devastation. My prayers go out to all the Bolivar residents and homeowners.

Bymike @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:32 PM

Does anyone know of my neighbors Bill & Kaye Reed. off of Redfish Lane.
Is there anything left on redfish? arial photos are knarly. 1824 Redfish. Any photos would be appreciated mmcconnell1@sbcglobal.net

ByMelissa @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:34 PM

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Comments 0 | Recommend 15
September 14, 2008 - 2:49PM
Scott Lawrence
The first information available about the extent of Hurricane Ike's impact on Crystal Beach includes reports that from the big store to the ferry - nothing is left.

(Update everyone about the conditions in the area by clicking here and adding information to our Public Message Board)

Jennifer McKnight, General Manager of the Bolivar Peninsula Special Utility District, says from the big store to Rollover Pass - the first two rows are gone but beyond that, some homes remain.

About 130 people remain in High Island. She says water is being made available to residents at the High Island plant site off Highway 124. Residents must bring their own containers and fill them from 10-Noon daily.

Water must be boiled for two minutes prior to consumption and then cooled.

McKnight says an assessment of the water plant and infrastructure is underway. Because the damage isn't known, residents of High Island must conserve water.

By Richard Woodman @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:40 PM

The Standifer home on 872 Monkhouse Drive Crystal Beach built in mid 1950s. Lila would like to know if the beach house is still there. I was on 14ft + beams so it may have made it.

By Jill @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:42 PM

Im so sorry to hear about Crystal Beach I grew up going there. I live In Winnie, and our town got destroyed also. This has been really hard to deal with. But we all need to pull together and rebuild.

By Pam & Joe Butler @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 4:58 PM

We have (had?) a beach front house in Gilchrist-on Daigle. Is there any info regarding Gilchrist?

By JH @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 5:18 PM

Does anyone know anything about the fate of the Singing Sands edition?

By Carleen @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 5:20 PM

MONKHOUSE: I have a house at 889 Monkhouse and earlier found a picture of within a block of our street. I sent this to my family, so my comments are on it and explain what I think I see.

Hope This Helps

By carleen @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 5:24 PM

The picture is here. You will have to create an account, but it only needs an email address and name.
http://www.box.net/p/carleen#1:2311423:195924370

By Allan & Felesia @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 5:45 PM

Our place was on Yacht Basin Road by the boat ramp in Gilchrist. If anyone sees or hears anything please let us know 979-450-8088. We are just waiting to see when/if we can get down there to clean up. If Rollover bridge is out... Our thoughts and prayers to everyone...

By Tiffanie @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 6:02 PM

KHOU just showed really good pictures of Crystal Beach. We were in Sandy Shores. Our house was completely gone. In Sandy Shores, there were about 4 streets without any houses AT ALL. There's not even rubble.

I saw people asking about Monkhouse, and on KHOU there are a lot (compared to just a few in ours) of houses still standing. But, there are boats and stuff floating. I'm sure they will have the feed on khou.com.

I'm definitely praying for everyone. They said they will not be rebuilding Crystal Beach and it'll be a wildlife refuge or something like that. . . that's why they took so long to show it. I think that's what they were planning all along. They said it's too expensive to rebuild. They said 95% of homes on Oak Island are destroyed.

By Carleen @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 6:27 PM

Tiffany, I think it was just the reporters suggesting that might happen, but I don't think they were quoting any official.

By vicki @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 6:38 PM

im looking for some friends who are from port bolivar. Sandra (formerly Walker) and Sonny Kapchinsky. who lived on overton or picknicky and Robert walker and family who lived on nelson ave. if anyone knows anything of them please let me know

By Larisa Carlile @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 6:44 PM

My family and I were supposed to be having our yearly vacation to our favorite spot (Crystal Beach) the 11th -15th. We were so sad not to be able to go. Now we are devastated for the loss of your sweet little town. I don't even have the heart to unpack our things that were ready for our trip. Our prayers go out to the people of Crystal Beach and hope that one day the town will rebuild so others can make such wonderful memories .

By Jack @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 6:45 PM

I live on Ave G in the Gulf Shores subdivision behind the Post Office. It's impossible to find out anything about Crystal Beach or the Bolivar Peninsula in the news media, local or national.

If anyone knows anything for certain about that area, or when we might be allowed to go back and assess our damages, please let me know...

By pat rousseau/mathis @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 7:18 PM

Does anyone know about 1025 N. fisherman off stingaree rd.

By diane @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 7:19 PM

looking for information on johnson crawford circle
house is right in front of the access road to the beach across the street from the green nichols rental houses next to biscayne subdivision
thank you

By Jan @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 7:27 PM

Hope that someone knows something about Rankin Alley at 13th street in Port Bolivar. I have had property there for years and love it dearly.

By Linda Parsel @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 7:28 PM

Does anyone know about Caplen? Bluestein road. SIging Sands West.

By Debbie Parnell @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 7:37 PM

just saw pics of Emerald Beach 1 My mom's house is gone and so are most of her neighbors, very few houses left. even the street at the stop sign (townsend towards the beach is gone)
May god be with all of us

By J.L. @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 7:41 PM

This is a great site. We found our house STILL STANDING on Martinique. Thank you LORD! Hope these photos help you find your's standing. http://jakeabby.com/cb/

By J. L. @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 7:46 PM

http://jakeabby.com/cb/

SAND PIPER EDITION!!!!!!!!!

By Wendy Westfaul @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 8:03 PM

Thanks for the link to jakeabby. My parents' beachhouse is (?) on Mary Ann, just out of frame on the post-Ike shot. Is anything left beyond the slough? Thanks in advance, I hope everyone is safe and that Bolivar gets rebuilt, I always enjoyed getting down there and kicking back.
Blessings, W.

By A. Yard @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 8:14 PM

My in-laws home is on W. Canal (North of the main hwy) It was the one with the green fence wrapping around it and the large extra building for the RV. My father-in-law renovated it and added on over 40 years ago. He is safe here but we are trying to find out how his house did. Please let us know
AY

By holly @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:12 PM

What about info on Emerald One area...AND...the road that goes beside Joy Sands Motel...the first road beside it as you are going toward the ferry landing?...It seems as all is just gone!!

By Justin & Erica @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:30 PM

Our harts go out to the people of Crystal Beach and surrounding areas. We have vacationed there for the past there years and in Galvaston the two years before that. This is our place and it upsets us to see it in ruin. You are in our prayers and thoughts.

By The wilber family @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:48 PM

we are wondering about the outrigger. we live on north tinkle land (the road where the new coconuts club was(or is)). if u know ANYTHING about that area plz let us kno thanks so much!
god bless us all!!!

By mike @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 9:55 PM

biscayne beach and waterways look to be survivors based on khou video. it is bittersweet though because dunes are gone and unless there is a major effort to rebuild infrastucture this wonderful slice of paradise will essentially be gone. my heart goes out to all of you good folks, the big store employees,realtors,restaurant workers, the sweet lady who ran the fun spot and was the reason for so much joy in the life of my kids, my neighbors at biscayne, i am praying for all of you and am blessed that you all came into my life and made it better.

By faith @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:23 PM

Our house is at 955 Fisherman right past Stingeree. Does anyone have info? We LOVE Crystal Beach and are devestated to see the pictures. Prayers with you all.

By prhil @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:30 PM

just saw khou vid. our house still standing on eastview in emerald 2, but almost everything else around us is gone. Does anyone have word of Willis & Karen Turner, or of Judy Lee?

By Gina Eubank @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:31 PM

We were staying at Banana Cabana. We evacuated on Thursday morning. It was myself, my husband and our 20 year old son. My parents and other grown son and his girl friend were to meet us there Thursday afternoon. I am worried about a house a few doors down. There were two couples with some children renting it. They were considering staying saying it was being blown out of proportion. I pray they did not stay!! Does anyone know about this house? Is it still standing? It was on Ave J behind the post office beach front.
I am so sorry for all that live there. Cant wait for it to all be rebuilt so that our family get together can be planned again. We WILL be back!!!
Our prayers are with you all!!!
Oh... as for that skunk that sprayed our front door as we opened it..... I may not shed a tear for him ;-)
James & Gina Eubank
McKinney, Texas

By Debbie @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:38 PM

god bless all those whose homes were spared
our little haven looks like a war zone. The pics are devastating. My mom lost her home in Emerald 1. Although there are a few still standing, I pray for all those that have lost everything. Please keep posting information and any new pics.

By Bob Brown @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:38 PM

I'm front row Sandcastle. Parents fourth row Lafittes Landing. Any news or pictures?

By Lynn @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 10:57 PM

From what I have read. The first two rows from the Blue Store back to the ferry was just about ALL gone. The older construction was hit the hardest everywhere else.

If they rebuilt New Orleans, they dang sure better pony-up for Crystal Beach!!!!!!

By Pat @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 11:20 PM

Any news on Beaumont St. (Gulf side), across 87 from the airstrip?

By J. L. @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 11:32 PM

Hey Pat go to this sight. Look at the one with Hotel YaYa and the 7 photos in the middle under the photo with the red corners. That is the street. http://jakeabby.com/cb

By Stephanie @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 11:48 PM

To Denise who inquired about Johnson Crawford Circle and Magnolia Lane, go to the KHOU video (http://www.khou.com/video/news-index.html?nvid=282706&shu=1). Look for minute 5:49 through minute 6:51. They do a flyover the Johnson Crawford Circle, Magnolia, and other streets..

By JJ Wood _ Parkerq @ Sunday, September 14, 2008 11:58 PM

Hi , I am Jerry Parker's daughter from Jerry Parker Realty. Does any one have any information about the subdivision Copacabana? Thank you so much.

P.S. Jerry and Bonnie Parker are fine. Now we want to know about the house.

By Toni Kane @ Monday, September 15, 2008 12:00 AM

John Washam lives on Bolivar, Bay Street (KonaKai). Does anyone know if he got out? If so to where? Is his home ok? If you see this Daddy. I love you.
Toni

By Nanie. @ Monday, September 15, 2008 12:46 AM

Holly, the Joy Sands Motel was on the corner, does anyone know if anything is still standing on that street?

By ANNA & ANGELO / ANNA'S CABANA @ Monday, September 15, 2008 1:23 AM

THE DEVASTATING DAMAGE FROM HURRICANE IKE IS BEYOND OUR WILDEST IMAGINATION. OUR PRAYERS GO OUT TO EVERY PERSON IN CRYSTAL BEACH. THE MEMORIES OF PARADISE WILL NEVER BE ERASED FROM OUR MINDS OF GREAT TIMES SPENT IN CRYSTAL BEACH, PLUS ALL THE FABULOUS PEOPLE WE MET. SADLY, WE ARE FORCED TO SAY GOOD-BYE TO ANNA'S CABANA. IT IS ONLY GOD'S WILL IF A REPLACEMENT ONE WILL EVER BE RESURRECTED AGAIN. GOD GIVE US ALL STRENGTH TO RECOVER & REBUILD OURSELVES AGAIN.

ByBret Crystal Beach @ Monday, September 15, 2008 1:41 AM

Crystal Beach: Watch the Video it says it all.

By cindy @ Monday, September 15, 2008 2:56 AM

Does anyone know if any cabins survived on gayle street in gilchrest? Its on channel side. Thanks for any information

By B0b Brown @ Monday, September 15, 2008 6:48 AM

Pat,

I saw somw pictures of Beaumont Street. I used tolive on Shrimp b4 I decided I needed front row. Looks like the houses on Shrimp and back toward the highway did better than most.

By Dawn @ Monday, September 15, 2008 7:27 AM

Tidelands subdivision is shown clearly on slide 24 on the chron.com website slideshow of houston/ galveston damage from Ike. Not much left. My house is the blue on on 4th row still standing and was built a little over a year ago.

By Kat Kramer @ Monday, September 15, 2008 9:36 AM

I just spoke with Jackson (Jay) and Charm Cowart. They were on Galveston Ave. They survived the storm just fine. Initial reports are that their house survived...they saw it on CNN. So we're crossing our fingers!

By Cheri Greene @ Monday, September 15, 2008 9:49 AM

Your community will be in our thoughts and prayers. My husband and I spent a week in your town in April of 2006. We fell in love with the place. God Bless you all.
Cheri Greene
PS Does anyone know how the Flamingo Ranch home on Stingeree Street is?

By Buck Maples @ Monday, September 15, 2008 9:52 AM

To all on the Bolivar Penn. My heart goes out to evryone. I and my family lived there for years and knew almost everyone. Our home was lost and probably our famous grapefruit tree as well.
I truly hope evryone made it out of this unharmed.
Our prayers are with you.

By GJ MItchell @ Monday, September 15, 2008 9:55 AM

We know our house in Emerald One is gone,but has anyone heard of the whee abouts of the following ?
Shannon Gardner lived across the street from the beach house. and about Marvins BYOP on Noble Carl road.. these guys wer great for us last year when our truck broke down twice... just want to know hey are okay...
God Bless you all..

By Somer @ Monday, September 15, 2008 9:58 AM

Does anyone have any information as to when camera and news crews will be allowed in? They have been able to give extensive coverage of the West End of Galveston this morning. It looks alot better than was expected, so it gives me hope for our side.

By sherry kilgore @ Monday, September 15, 2008 10:12 AM

My home was located on S Jacks Road the same road as the Joy Sands Hotel. I haven't been able to see that marker point on the video..Wonder if my little bungalow is still there. Anyone heard about that area? Still hopeful. God Bless Everyone

By kay @ Monday, September 15, 2008 10:18 AM

iknew that galveston was due, i was on the island during alisha and i know the rath of a major storm.. ileft the area. i don't know who got out and didn't..so yall pray for all these folks...thank-you....kk

By April Alaniz @ Monday, September 15, 2008 10:18 AM

Our house was located on Deens street immediatly west of Rollover. I haven't located that exact position on any picture but from the looks of it, its gone. I know that all of us are devestated. Pray for a quick recovery effort and future of Bolivar.

By Pattie Newman @ Monday, September 15, 2008 11:02 AM

We have rented from Swede's the past 2 summers and stayed at the Compass Rose. We were just there Labor Day weekend. We send out prayers and thoughts to those families that are still enduring the storms aftermath. Please let us know what is needed. We are very involved in our community in Southwest Houston (Meyerland, Bellaire Area) We know lots of folks that would like to help. Crystal Beach was a great vacation spot. God Bless All Involved!

By lisa @ Monday, September 15, 2008 11:05 AM

Does anyone know about any of the homes on AVE J in Gulf Shores sub? We have rented SunnyDaze, Ampa's Place/Cococabana and a few others for almost 10 years every Memorial Weekend. My heart breaks to see all the destruction and prayers go out to all!

By db @ Monday, September 15, 2008 11:32 AM

Khou video which is very long but shows many areas especially Crystal Beach. Note you have to know the mapsco corridonents or hwy 87 well to know what is being shown.
http://www.khou.com/video/topstories-index.html?nvid=282706&shu=1

ByAaron Long @ Monday, September 15, 2008 11:47 AM

Does anyone know anything about video from stingarees to rollover pass. I havent found any photos of video or images from that area. I need to know about our house in "Singing Sands West"? Thanks,

By Carrie Swanson @ Monday, September 15, 2008 12:01 PM

I found two pics of singing sands and singing sands west on the KFDM website. Email me at cccswanson@gmail.com and I will forward them to you.

By Lynn for Jimmy Taliaferro @ Monday, September 15, 2008 12:05 PM

I am trying to get in touch with Jimmy Taliaferro that took the photos from the air. Please contact me at jllcco@aol.com

By Aimee @ Monday, September 15, 2008 12:54 PM

Does anyone know if Stingarees Restaurant survived? Our prayers are with you all.

By Lynn @ Monday, September 15, 2008 12:54 PM

Is anyone that is flying folks in to Crystal Beach. A helicopter pilot could sure stay busy.

jllcco@aol.com

By larry @ Monday, September 15, 2008 1:01 PM

Any pictures of Crystal Canal RV park

By Aimee @ Monday, September 15, 2008 1:23 PM

I have been watching the video from Khou and don't think Stingarees Rest. made it. I dont think Castaway, the cabin we have reserved for next month on Stingaree, made it either. The destruction is awful.

ByAaron Long @ Monday, September 15, 2008 1:31 PM

This link has a neighborhood by neighborhood aerial map: http://ngs.woc.noaa.gov/ike/IKE0000.HTM You can use it to see if your house made it.

By Cattie & Corine @ Monday, September 15, 2008 1:40 PM

Still wondering about bayside houses any word? Has anyone heard when, if & how we will be able to get on the peninsula? If you have a boat can you access any docks? The ferry landing appear to be gone, any word on repairs? Where are our children supposed to go to school?

By Allan & Felesia in gilchrist @ Monday, September 15, 2008 1:50 PM

There is a story in the nytimes that tells of the first efforts allowing volunteer EMS in yesterday. Texas parks and wildlife brought in 5 boats, so we should start hearing more, hopefully. My husband found our little spot on yacht basin near rollover live at http://twurl.nl/mqgwxc. the place is gone, so is true value hardware, it appears.

By Aimee @ Monday, September 15, 2008 2:07 PM

I take it back about Stingaree Rest. After looking at the images at http://ngs.woc.noaa.gov/ike/IKE0000.HTM, I think I can see the buildings red roof! I so hope it is still there, it is the best place to eat on Bolivar.

By pat @ Monday, September 15, 2008 2:19 PM

Thanks for everyone's help. I went up on noaa updated aerial pics and discovered our house on Beaumont St is gone... so sad, but hopefully some of you will have better luck. Check out the noaa site that Jake refers to.

By GJ Mitchell @ Monday, September 15, 2008 2:29 PM

Correction ... i kept referring to Emerald Aisle One.but should have stated Emerald Beach One.. am still trying to find on the NOAA site

By Bob Brown @ Monday, September 15, 2008 2:48 PM

Check out video on Click2Houston.com. Goes really fast. Think we identified Lafittes Landing at about 1:49. It either skips over Sandcastle or Sandcastle isn't there anymore.

By MDQ @ Monday, September 15, 2008 2:56 PM

Our home was on 27th, in Bolivar. Does anyone know what that area holds? I cannot find answers. I had 2 houses, a shed, and 2 boat sheds on the first 4 lots of land there. Our family has owned this property for nearly 100 years. I do not know what has become of our home. Does anyone know?

By shanon Donatto @ Monday, September 15, 2008 3:00 PM

does ne one know codition of neighborhood in tideland , behind swedes and by chevron area ? if so 281-420-9597

By MDQ @ Monday, September 15, 2008 3:07 PM

Anyone know any information on Steve's Landing

By connorsgotme@yahoo.com @ Monday, September 15, 2008 3:14 PM

If anyone does another fly over Crystal Beach... could you please take a picture of the bright blue house with a white deck located behind Gregory Park (Martinique Rd) It would be most helpful to see what kinda of damage we are looking at.

This would be my parents second house to be lost in a storm. The first was in an unlikely place in East Texas.

I would love to give them some hope/closure to this home.

By April Alaniz @ Monday, September 15, 2008 3:24 PM

Almost positive I saw Steves Landing in one of the flyover videos. It was standing.

By russell @ Monday, September 15, 2008 3:31 PM

You can go to this NOAA map to find virtually any property site on Bolivar. These are post-Ike satellite images:

http://ngs.woc.noaa.gov/ike/29094D5_IKE.HTM

For Caplen you will need to start with the square at the top right, and work your way back to the left. Once you select a square, click Full Size image. It will be greatly enlarged to where you need to scroll around to see the various sites. To get your bearing you will usually need to compare to Google satellite images. The second square from the top right roughly coincides with this Google satellite image, and you can track things from there.

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&q=pelican+lane+bolivar+peninsula&ie=UTF8&t=h&ll=29.494167,-94.535814&spn=0.002059,0.003433&z=18

Hope this helps.

By russell @ Monday, September 15, 2008 3:33 PM

Also go here to select other areas to drill down and view a post-Ike satellite image. Note grids on Galveston / Bolivar.

http://ngs.woc.noaa.gov/ike/IMAGES/ike_c25883907.htm

By rc @ Monday, September 15, 2008 4:15 PM

Does anyone know if the Smith house on Tradewinds is still standing?

By Dee @ Monday, September 15, 2008 4:45 PM

Judy Lee is at my house. I'm her daughter. Do you know if her home is standing? We need news.

By Margo Ballew @ Monday, September 15, 2008 4:57 PM

Kellie & Swedes crew, I really appreciate this page & comments from all. I check it several times a day, hoping for new & newinfo/photos as they come in.
Margo -Emerald I, beachfront -no more.

By Candace and John Wahl @ Monday, September 15, 2008 7:06 PM

For Jerry and Bonnie Parker: think John found our Copacabana. Check this out: http://ngs.woc.noaa.gov/ike/IMAGES/ike_c25883843.htm

Looks like Irv's house is there, maybe Patty Erg, see what you guys think. Email me at cwahl@eprod.com Have you heard from any of our other neighbors? Not sure if Patty has made it back to town but am concerned about her as well as everyone else.

By bgrosso @ Monday, September 15, 2008 7:30 PM

Anyone know how James St. is?

By GJMitchell @ Monday, September 15, 2008 7:53 PM

Margo at Emerald Beach 1...have questions please email me at glorym55@yahoo.com

By DINO VASOS @ Monday, September 15, 2008 9:38 PM

we need to start a group to present plans to build some kind of a wall to stop this from happening again. I will be putting a petition together and with your help by signing this we can get this done. I will also be putting a plan together for funding this project . if you have any comments please email me at dmvasos@ yahoo.com god bless all of us .

By Faulk family @ Monday, September 15, 2008 9:43 PM

my family had two beach houses next to eachother on westview in emerald 2 does any one have a picture i could see to tell if they are still there ar not they are close to the canal and right next to the bottom of the field behind the post office

By Andy @ Monday, September 15, 2008 9:51 PM

First of all, my heart goes out to everyone who lost their homes from this storm. My parents have a beach house on Kent in Sandy Shores. I've tried checking NOAA, but I can't find anything-it's been years since I was there and they've made extensive changes to the cabin. They're in Lumberton without power and can't look online themselves; any news would be helpful. Sending love from Chicagoland.

By Tiffanie @ Monday, September 15, 2008 10:40 PM

Andy--- my parent's house was on Kenlyn in Sandy Shores, one street over from kent and the second house back from the slough.

There's a good image of Sandy Shores on www.jakeabby.com/cb/ if you click on the photo titled 9-15-08 10:23 am Tidelands.

This is a great site. This particular picture has the street names so you can locate it. Our house was one of the only ones that made it on Kenlyn. I can't remember about Kent though. . . Hope this helps.

Good luck.

By Angie Lucas @ Monday, September 15, 2008 10:46 PM

My family has a place in Crystal Canal off of Crystal Beach Blvd. We saw several homes from the KHOU video but we are just not sure. Does anyone have any news or pics from this neighborhood?

By Tiffanie @ Monday, September 15, 2008 10:48 PM

Andy- I just checked the image of Sandy Shores. It looks as if there was only one house still standing and my mom said their last name is Landry. . . .

By Lou DeNino @ Monday, September 15, 2008 11:05 PM

Does any one have any information on how Audubon Village weathered the storm? We have a house there. God bless eveyone with a home or a deep connection to Bolivar. We loved it there.

By Danny and Kay Brown @ Monday, September 15, 2008 11:18 PM

LAfitte's Landing? Anyone seen anything from here I've been trying to search for our neighorhood all day long. Thanks Swedes for communicating with us all as always.

By Brenda @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 12:14 AM

My mom's name is Ginny Shuttlesworth and she lived on South East street down the street from the lumber yard. Can anyone tell me if they have been able to see anything in this area?

By Ashlee @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 12:17 AM

Lots of pictures of homes... maybe you can find yours...

http://picasaweb.google.com/heatherrkilgore/MadNonnieComCrystalBeachTexas?authkey=d00oKKtL_lY#

By Peggy @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 12:40 AM

OMG...I'm just sick...used to work for ole Captain Flagg and my aunt & uncle built a home there & just sold it a year or so ago, so know how much this great little stretch of beach means to sooo many folks from so many areas....God Bless Crystal Beach and all it's wonderful fulltime & partime residents....my heart goes out to you all.

By Akexia McGrath @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 7:01 AM

We founnd that 3 out of 4 beachfront houses survived in Gulfport village

ByAshlee @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 7:40 AM

<h2>
My dad is looking for someone with a helicopter that can fly him to Crystal Beach... Please send price list to connorsgotme@yahoo.com

We would like to take more, close up shots of the community to share with everyone.

Thanks so much!
</h2>

By JJ Wood - Jerry Parker's daughter @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 10:04 AM

Thank you for the information/message for Jerry and Bonnie Parker. I have forwarded it to them . I also found their house on the satellite pictures. I have seen Dad & Bonnie, they are okay; upset but okay. I wll keep in touch. Has anyone heard back from Fema - what is the plan?

By Heather Hall @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 10:22 AM

We have spent many summers at Crystal Beach and are very saddened by the conditions there. We have always been so welcomed by the community and want you all to know that our prayers and thoughts are with you.

By Farrah @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 10:36 AM

My family just built two new beach houses on Wommack St in Emerald 1 and I was wondering if they made it through. They are 827 and 824 Wommack. If anyone has a good pic...I think I saw them on that top left pic but I am not positive that it is them. Thanks for your help!

ByD @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 10:49 AM

I don't know if this will help anyone but here is holiday beach satellite view and a link to a photobucket shot with gulf and surf dr. drawn in.

http://ngs.woc.noaa.gov/storms/ike/geo-C25883818.jpg

http://i391.photobucket.com/albums/oo352/dwilson_bucket/2567HolidayCrystalBeachTexas.jpg

ByD @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 11:07 AM

Here is another link for HD photos with zoom capability. Really good quality. May be helpful because of the clarity of the shots.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26724728/

By Sally Swatner @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 11:36 AM

Does Swedes plan on rebuilding? We have a plan to rent from Swedes as we have in the past for a family reunion. It is planned for next summer. If they are not planning to rebuild we need to know to start new plans. I pray this is not the case. We only want to rent from Swedes. We trust them completely. I truly hope ALL on the island will rebuild the whole island. We LOVE this place and have seriously considered becoming owners.
Feel free to email privately.
Blessings,
Sally

By Sally @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 11:42 AM

Sorry, here is my email address to email privately
boxrkisses@yahoo.com

By ashlee @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 12:22 PM

Alright everyone... I have gathered some information that could help us get back to Bolivar/High Island and asses the damage, faster. Maybe save a few of our tax dollars and help clean Bolivar up.

If we stay on government officials, DAILY, and make sure that they know we exist and that our town was not just empty homes for summer renters, then maybe he will not put our needs on the back burner.

We lost more than just homes and Rick Perry and others need to be reminded of that, often, till we get a response.

http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/Home.aspx

http://www.governor.state.tx.us/contact/

Lets get back to what we loved and lost!

By s.s @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 1:05 PM

More great postings are up at this site
http://jakeabby.com/cb/

Also, news conf. just ended. Stated that they are going to "force" those left off by force on Bolivar.
There is also the "famous" tiger running loose and hungry around Crystal Beach.

Also they mentioned that it will be months before travel to Bolivar will be possible. I hope not.
People of Bolivar.... please do not let this wonderful place disappear and become no more... We love this place. Please tell me you all will return and rebuild.

By Aimee @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 1:16 PM

To tell people that they can not access the Bolivar Pen. for several months is a little much. How do they expect business and homes to be repaired and re-built. Also, who wants to stay in temporary housing or shelters for that long? And who can afford to? I don't even live on the Bolivar, and this really upsets me. If people aren't allowed to return to repair the homes that are still there, they will be lost also.

ByD @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 1:29 PM

This is also a list of who represents you....Just type in your address.

http://www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/

By Ashlee @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 1:56 PM

That is great help! I plan on sending an email everyday and I might just get the media clued in also... I just want them to fix the road in a timely manner so we can pick up whats left of our town.

I have gotten a few emails of those who say its a waste of my time.... the rule goes, you wont know unless you try!

By SV @ Tuesday, September 16, 2008 2:04 PM

For satellite photos of the current conditions of Crystal Beach, go to http://jakeabby.com/cb/. Click on the post dated 9/16/08 @ 10:50 a.m. and follow the link to Google Earth Blog. It reflects most of the streets and rooftop images of the homes.

For information on the Sherman's, of Sherman's Wrecker, who helped many evacuate but were caught in the storm, they are o.k. Follow the link to their story that ran in the San Antonio Express News today: