Monday, August 31, 2009

Vacation at Gulf Shores Beaches | Alabama Trips

Vacation at Gulf Shores Beaches | Alabama Trips: "Ever wondering how enticing the place of the Gulf Shores Beaches is? Still in awe why many who had been in the place called it the paradise of the south? Set foot in Gulf Shore Beaches now and satisfy then your curiosity of the place.

Gulf Shores Beaches covers the Gulf Shores, Fort Morgan, Orange Beach, Foley and South Baldwin. The shore is teeming with crystal-like sand and the cloudless reflection of the skies dance as the waves ceaselessly kiss the shore. Such is a heaven-like place to stay, relax and enjoy."

Catfish Takeout to open in Foley - al.com

Catfish Takeout to open in Foley - al.com: "David's Catfish Takeout will open in early September in 1,200 square feet at Plaza 20 on Baldwin County 20, about one mile west of Ala. 59, in Foley, according to owner Jane Penton. She and her family also own David's Catfish House, a full-service restaurant on U.S. 31 in Spanish Fort, which has been in business for 20 years."

Recession bites restaurant business - al.com

Recession bites restaurant business - al.com: "he owners of Wintzell's Oyster House get calls all the time from landlords pitching space, and that's how Wintzell's landed at its new Orange Beach site.

The 11th in the chain of stores that started in downtown Mobile will occupy the former Ruby Tuesday building on Ala. 182 by January 2010, according to Bob Donlon, owner and chief executive officer of SouthernPointe Group, which operates the Mobile-based company."

Baldwin remembers Jim Small - al.com

Baldwin remembers Jim Small - al.com: "ROBERTSDALE — Jim 'Doc' Small was a public servant who was truly dedicated to serving the public over the course of 30 years as a forensics investigator, district attorney's investigator and Baldwin County coroner, colleagues and friends said at a memorial service Saturday.

Small, 68, of Fort Morgan died Thursday after developing an infection following back surgery earlier this month. On Saturday, a crowd of more than 300 family, friends, law enforcement and court officials and others filled the Baldwin County Coliseum in Robertsdale for a memorial for Small.

Baldwin County Sheriff Huey 'Hoss' Mack said he met Small about 30 years ago. Small stopped at the fu neral home operated by Mack's father, Huey Mack Sr., checking death cases for what was then the Alabama Department of Toxicology and Criminal Investigations. Small later retired from the agency's Mobile office, after it had become the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, after about 30 years of service."

Scientists: Don't feed the dolphins - al.com

Scientists: Don't feed the dolphins - al.com: "At 15 inches, the red snapper was an inch shy of being legal. Tossed overboard instead of into the icebox, the fish seemed lucky.

But then, before the snapper had even managed to turn itself upright in the water, a bottlenose dolphin swallowed it whole.

Other fish being reeled in at the same spot simply disappeared off the line a few feet under the boat, also likely eaten by one of the numerous dolphins seen around the Lady Ann, according to scientists and fishermen aboard the boat during a recent research cruise from Dauphin Island."

Coastal policies bearing big risk - al.com

Coastal policies bearing big risk - al.com: "MONTGOMERY — Property insurers have enjoyed profitable years in Alabama recently, but are also covering fewer coastal homeowners, according to industry data and some in the insurance business.

As a result, more coastal homeowners are turning to the state's insurer of last resort, concentrating risk in a pool that experts agree couldn't cope with all the costs if a big hurricane hit. In that event, policyholders throughout the state would likely have to help foot the bill."

Mullet Wrapper: Wharf’s Labor Day on the Lawn Concert features The Tip Tops

Mullet Wrapper: "The Wharf will host the first annual “Labor Day on the Lawn” family-oriented concert on Sunday, September 6 at 8 p.m. Admission is free. Entertainment will be provided by local favorites The Tip Tops. The site for the event is the Marina Lawn adjacent to The Wharf Marina."

Mullet Wrapper: Free bone density tests Sept. 23 at G.S. First Presbyterian

Mullet Wrapper: "Take advantage of a free bone density test on Wednesday, September 23, from 9 - 1:30 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Gulf Shores, located at 309 East 21st Ave. Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass resulting in serious bone fractures in both men and women."

Sunday, August 30, 2009

YouTube - Kyle Jones and Jimmy Nelson Sing The Dance by Garth Brooks Under the Stars of Orange Beach, Alabama

Editor's Note: People having fun in Orange Beach.

"Just another moonlit evening spent with Jimmy Nelson and Kyle Jones serenading the sandy shores of Orange Beach, Alabama...."

New Pier Features State-of-the-Art Lighting for Sea Turtles

New Pier Features State-of-the-Art Lighting for Sea Turtles: by Denise Rowell, U.S. Fish & Widle Life Public Arrairs Officer


"Summer thunderstorms overtook the Alabama gulf coast that Wednesday morning, but a little rain wasn't going to stop the grand opening of an historic landmark on the beaches of Gulf Shores. Gulf State Park's saltwater fishing pier, located just east of Gulf Shores, was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in September of 2004. Now, nearly five years later, the fishing pier is back, and it comes with improvements that will help save the lives of a threatened and endangered species."

Annual Mullet Fest set for Labor Day - al.com

Annual Mullet Fest set for Labor Day - al.com: "Fun, food and fellowship is on the agenda during the 23rd Annual Mullet Festival on Labor Day in Lillian.The day features a 5K Run/Walk, One Mile Fun Walk, breakfast, Mullet Fling, Golf Pitch, silent auction, mullet/ham dinner, raffle and live music. In addition, vendors will be on hand to sell a variety of products.

The day begins with the 5K Run/Walk at 7 a.m. with registration at 6:15 a.m. Cost is $15 for pre-registration and $20 on race day. The registration fee includes a T-shirt. To pre-register, call Andy Wilkinson at 251-961-1343 or Lee Hoffman at 251-962-3339."

Orange Beach celebrates 25 - al.com

Orange Beach celebrates 25 - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — Despite its name, the new town was so small when incorporated in 1984 that the corporate limits did not reach the beach, said the municipality's first mayor.

On Saturday, Orange Beach celebrated the 25th anniversary of incorporation with a festival that included music, food, historical exhibits and other activities. Looking at the activity in the park behind the City Hall, Ronnie Callaway, mayor from 1984 to 1992, said the city has grown since those first days.

'It's looking good,' he said. 'Things are growing and growing, but some things haven't changed.'"

Businessman says chambers’ merger being ‘moved forward’ by some - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

Businessman says chambers’ merger being ‘moved forward’ by some - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "FOLEY, Ala. — E-mails this week from the chairmen of the boards of directors of South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce in Foley and Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce in Gulf Shores sound the same tone to their respective chamber members.

Yes, discussions are taking place concerning a merger, but no merger can take place without an affirmative vote of the chambers’ full memberships.

“Your Board of Directors has neither the legal authority nor the desire to act unilaterally,” reads one common line in the e-mails from R. Jerry Jackson, chairman of SBCC’s board, and Sean P. Chappell, chairman of AGCCC’s board.

“We, as a Board, will not take that action and absolutely want the input of members to decide the right course,” is Chappell’s next sentence.

Jackson’s next sentence is, “Talk you may have heard that a merger is already a ‘done-deal’ is totally incorrect!”"

City could break even this year - al.com

City could break even this year - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — With seven months accounted for, including almost all of the lucrative summer season, the city is on pace to break even in 2009, municipal officials said last week.

That should allow the city to leave its $2 million reserve fund intact, said Financial Director Clara Myers.

That news, Myers said, comes despite sales taxes being on pace to fall a few hundred thousand dollars below the projected $6.7 million — a number already representing a $2 million decline from 2008. Lodgings taxes will also be a few hundred thousand dollars less than predicted in the budget, she said."

The Shed opening in 5 new locations - al.com

The Shed opening in 5 new locations - al.com: "Owners of The Shed Barbeque and Blues Joint in Ocean Springs announced this week that they will open five new franchise locations in three states over the next year, including two within the next three months.

Shed restaurants in Mobile and Lafayette, La., will open in October and November, respectively, with locations in Perdido Key, Ala., and Destin and Panama City, Fla., coming by fall 2010."

Second try for Beach CITE Studios - Baldwin County NOW

Second try for Beach CITE Studios - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Steps are being taken to add a 6,700-square -foot arts building in Orange Beach, a facility that was initially considered in Gulf Shores.

A resolution of support and designation of site for Beach CITE Studios will be presented at Tuesday night’s City Council meeting.

Beach CITE Studios, Inc. was formed in October 2008, by three local residents of Gulf Shores. In February 2009, the organization received a substantial unrestricted donation from the Camille Schroeder Charitable Foundation to construct the facility, as well as have startup operating funds to offer artistic opportunities for the community.

CITE stands for “Community Interactive Teaching Experience.”"

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Pleasure Island prepares for expanded triathlon weekend | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Pleasure Island prepares for expanded triathlon weekend | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "Anticipation continues to build among the racing community as the area's premier triathlon — and its new sister event of a shortened triathlon — grows closer.

Registration recently opened for the Brett-Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon and the new Coastal "Tri-It-On" Triathlon, both of which are set for Saturday, Sept. 19 in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area."

WWII vets prepare for Honor Flight | Fox10tv.com

WWII vets prepare for Honor Flight | Fox10tv.com: "DAPHNE, Ala. - Many World War II Veterans have never seen their memorial in Washington D.C. So a program that was started in Ohio, is now giving them the chance to visit our nation's capitol.

The Honor Flight program raises funding to send World War II vets to D.C. for a day. Dr. Barry Booth works with the South Alabama chapter, and said he has 360 men and women signed up to make the trip."

Schofield is back on the road to success | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Schofield is back on the road to success | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "Despite going through changes over the past year, the members of Schofield haven't let any crossroads slow them down on their drive to make it to the big time. The band, which grew into another band — Sunday Driver — and then evolved back into Schofield, has seen some people come and go. But now, the current lineup is headed back on the right track."

OBAC announces classes - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

OBAC announces classes - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Classes lined at the Orange Beach Art Center are Mixed Media with Zach Baisden, a six-week class on Tuesdays, from 9:30–11:30 a.m. The fee for this class is $90, and it begins Sept. 1.

Students draw upon a wide range of materials such as paper, charcoal, paint, clay, plaster, wax, plastic and found objects while incorporating various techniques in the fabrication of 3-D works.

This is a fun, creative, messy class as multi-dimensional works are produced."

Residential towers project on Alabama's Gulf coast officially called off - WHNT

Residential towers project on Alabama's Gulf coast officially called off - WHNT: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. (AP) — Officials in Orange Beach say a long-troubled plan to replace a stretch of damaged beach houses and low-rise condos with Alabama's tallest residential towers has been called off.

The Mandolay Beach project was originally proposed during the area's post-Hurricane Ivan building boom as a pair of 36-story condo towers at the terminus of Ala. 161. It was later recast as a convention center and resort."

Orange Beach on pace to break even this year - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Orange Beach on pace to break even this year - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. -- With seven months accounted for, including almost all of the lucrative summer season, the city is on pace to break even in 2009, municipal officials said last week.

That should allow the city to leave its $2 million reserve fund intact, said Financial Director Clara Myers."

Orange Beach Turns 25! - Alabama Orange Beach Birthday Celebration - WKRG.com

Orange Beach Turns 25! - Alabama Orange Beach Birthday Celebration - WKRG.com: "Orange Beach is celebrating its 25th birthday!

'It's amazing in 25 years how far we've come and there's been a lot of adversity to overcome,' says Mayor Tony Kennon."

Orange Beach officials hope to identify old, unmarked graves - al.com

Orange Beach officials hope to identify old, unmarked graves - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — When residents gather today to celebrate this city's 25th anniversary, Fire Chief Forney Howard is hoping some of the old-timers might be able to reach back in their memories well beyond the town founding and help explain who might be buried in the Community Cemetery's many unmarked graves.

'If they say, 'I know my granddaddy is there,' or 'I went to a funeral there,' then we can narrow it down,' Howard said during a recent visit to the graveyard.

The cemetery is tucked behind a small, unmanned firehouse on Bear Point."

Gulf Shores cruises to 30-15 road win over Robertsdale - Sports from the Press-Register - al.com

Gulf Shores cruises to 30-15 road win over Robertsdale - Sports from the Press-Register - al.com: "ROBERTSDALE, Ala. - Gulf Shores jumped out to 16-0 lead before Robertsdale managed a first down en route to a 30-15 win tonight at J.D. Sellars Stadium."

Friday, August 28, 2009

Orange Beach celebrates its 25th birthday on Saturday - al.com

Orange Beach celebrates its 25th birthday on Saturday - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — In 1984, a small town of about 1,000 people was formed on the southern shores of Wolf Bay and Bay La Launch.

Since then, Orange Beach has expanded rapidly and has quickly developed one of the more prominent skylines in the Southeast.

'At 25, you're still kind of an infant compared to a lot of other cities,' said City Administrator Ken Grimes. 'To come that far in such a short time is really an experience.'"

Grass Roots: Hedging Our Bets - Insurance Gulf Coast Environment Richard Shelby - WKRG.com

Grass Roots: Hedging Our Bets - Insurance Gulf Coast Environment Richard Shelby - WKRG.com: "We can build better and we can act as a community to improve our storm water management. Senator Richard C. Shelby discusses changes coming in flood insurance and State Senator Ben Brooks describes his legislation to improve homeowner’s insurance costs. The City of Orange Beach, Alabama, outlines their course of action that has reduced the cost of flood insurance by 15% for their citizens. Carl Schneider relates improvements that home owners can make to lower their insurance costs, and Danny Lipford demonstrates these changes."
WKRG.com News

Baldwin County Coroner death | Fox10tv.com

Baldwin County Coroner death | Fox10tv.com: "BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. - Baldwin County Sheriff Huey Mack announced that Baldwin County Coroner James Small passed away Thursday morning at South Baldwin Hospital in Foley. Small had been coroner since 2007."

Orange Beach tower project scratched | Fox10tv.com

Orange Beach tower project scratched | Fox10tv.com: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. (AP) - Officials in Orange Beach say a long-troubled plan to replace a stretch of damaged beach houses and low-rise condos with Alabama's tallest residential towers has been called off.

The Mandolay Beach project was originally proposed during the area's post-Hurricane Ivan building boom as a pair of 36-story condo towers at the terminus of Ala. 161. It was later recast as a convention center and resort."

Emergency Baldwin Co. School meeting | Fox10tv.com

Emergency Baldwin Co. School meeting | Fox10tv.com: "Daphne, Ala. - Teachers and parents were among the crowd who came to the emergency budget meeting called by the Baldwin County School Board. The summit was held to open lines of communication between the board and the community. Jean McCutchen, the Chief Financial Officer of the school system, spoke in length about the financial problems they are facing."

Orange Beach has 25th birthday bash | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Orange Beach has 25th birthday bash | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "What do you do when your town celebrates its 25th anniversary? Throw a block party, of course. And that's precisely what the city of Orange Beach, Ala., is doing from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, as the fishing village commemorates its 25th year.

This will be the city's biggest and best block party, as it celebrates its 25th birthday along with Baldwin Country's Bicentennial celebration. Those in attendance will enjoy food, music, kids activities, Orange Beach historical displays and more.

The celebration takes place at the City Hall complex, 4099 Orange Beach Blvd. Details: (251) 981-7529."

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Pier fishing | Fox10tv.com

Pier fishing | Fox10tv.com: "GULF SHORES, Ala. - There are plenty of places to fish in our area, even if you don’t have a boat.

The best pier in our area is definitely the new Gulf State Park Pier located near Gulf Shores. It’s the longest pier on the Gulf of Mexico. The new Gulf State Park pier opened in July and stretches out 1,540 feet. That’s five times the length of a football field."

Developers pull plug on Mandolay Beach resort in Orange Beach - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Developers pull plug on Mandolay Beach resort in Orange Beach - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. -- Withered two years ago when developers defaulted on $100 million in loans, plans to replace a storm-battered stretch of beach houses and low-rise condos with the state's tallest residential towers have officially died, according to city officials.

'It was just too big a project to do in this economy,' said Greg Leatherbury, a lawyer who worked with Mandolay Beach's six lenders as they tried to revive the project last year."

Tropical Storm Danny Forms Off The Bahamas - National Hurricane Center Tropical Storm Danny - WKRG.com

Tropical Storm Danny Forms Off The Bahamas - National Hurricane Center Tropical Storm Danny - WKRG.com: "MIAMI (AP) - Tropical Storm Danny has formed in the open Atlantic off the Bahamas, and forecasters say it could get stronger as it moves toward the U.S.

The storm has top winds of 45 mph and is moving to the
west-northwest at 18 mph. As of 11 a.m. EDT Wednesday, the storm's center was about 445 miles (715 kilometers) east of Nassau, Bahamas and about 775 miles (1,250 kilometers) south of Cape Hatteras, N.C."

Future looks grim for local shrimpers | Fox10tv.com

Future looks grim for local shrimpers | Fox10tv.com: "BAYOU LA BATRE, Ala. - Typically, shrimp boat captains would be heading out to drag their nets along the bottom of Mobile Bay. Monday morning, most of the boats were docked.

Terry Johnson, a shrimp boat captain, said they are cutting trips short to save money.

'We decided to come in because we had a little ice and fuel and we want to make that opening in that part of the bay. We had a halfway decent day, about an 18 box day. We made a few dollars but not enough to keep going.'"

Costly mold sets school system back | Fox10tv.com

Costly mold sets school system back | Fox10tv.com: "BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. - Right in the middle of a tight budget crunch, in which over 200 people have lost their jobs, the Baldwin County School System is having to pick up a $30,000 tab on expenses they didn't foresee."

Guilty plea in condo scam - al.com

Guilty plea in condo scam - al.com: "A developer convicted of bribing the mayor of Orange Beach pointed federal investigators toward the kickbacks and money-laundering scheme involving the Westin condos, according to court documents unsealed in Mobile in June.

The assistance from Jim Brown and his testimony against former Orange Beach Mayor Steve Russo and former City Attorney Larry Sutley prompted prosecutors to recommend probation for Brown in that case.

U.S. District Judge Kristi DuBose ultimately sentenced Brown to a year and a day in prison."

The Art of Golf Course Design - Cybergolf

The Art of Golf Course Design - Cybergolf: "The Gulf Shores gets lost sometimes in the attention focused on the Alabama Trail, the collection of Robert Trent Jones courses that ring the state, each one first-class, each one about two hours from the other, each one surprisingly inexpensive. The rack rate for the majority of them is $52 a round, including cart.

But the courses are difficult - as RTJ courses tend to be, long and often requiring balls that carry water and ravines and what have you. 'No forced carries if I can help it,' said Stone. 'I was once a single-digit player but I try to envision each hole the way an 18-handicapper would. Then I build a couple of tees back in the woods for the big boys.'

Peninsula is owned and operated by Honours Golf, as is Craft Farms and Rock Creek, all part of the Golf Gulf Shores group (www.golfgulfshores.com) that offers enticing play-and-stay packages. Bob Barrett, the CEO of Honours, a Birmingham-based company, said he has turned down many offers to purchase and operate courses, some willing to hand him the keys for nothing."

Elberta teen dies two months after car crash - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Elberta teen dies two months after car crash - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "Samantha Dyess, 16, of Elberta died this week after receiving injuries in a single-car accident near her home in June.

Dyess had just completed her sophomore year at Foley High school. She was on life support care for month after the crash at Baptist Hospital in Pensacola. In July she was taken off life-support but remained unconscious and unresponsive. She died Monday, Aug. 24."

Grass Roots: Hedging Our Bets - Insurance Gulf Coast Environment Richard Shelby - WKRG.com

Grass Roots: Hedging Our Bets - Insurance Gulf Coast Environment Richard Shelby - WKRG.com: "We can build better and we can act as a community to improve our storm water management. Senator Richard C. Shelby discusses changes coming in flood insurance and State Senator Ben Brooks describes his legislation to improve homeowner’s insurance costs. The City of Orange Beach, Alabama, outlines their course of action that has reduced the cost of flood insurance by 15% for their citizens. Carl Schneider relates improvements that home owners can make to lower their insurance costs, and Danny Lipford demonstrates these changes."
WKRG.com News

Nonprofit eyes Orange Beach for arts facility - al.com

Nonprofit eyes Orange Beach for arts facility - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — A nonprofit that earlier this summer struck a deal to build and operate a 6,700-square-foot art education center on city property in Gulf Shores has backed out of that deal and instead proposed putting its facility in the next city over.

Beach CITE Studios Inc. struck a 99-year, $1-a-year lease agreement with the Gulf Shores City Council in February. Its leadership said in June that it expected to open its art center at the corner of West 19th Avenue and West Second Street early next year but that deal fell apart.

As the nonprofit sought approval for its building designs this summer, Gulf Shores officials sought to develop the public space with green building techniques, but Beach CITE Studios representatives said adding things like landscaped stormwater retention basins and a permeable parking lot would price the project out of their budget."

FEMA tells Baldwin County to pay back $5.8 million in Ivan and Katrina clean-up funds - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

FEMA tells Baldwin County to pay back $5.8 million in Ivan and Katrina clean-up funds - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "BAY MINETTE, Ala. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency has decided that Baldwin County should repay more than half the $10.5 million in hurricane cleanup reimbursements challenged by U.S. government auditors."

Happy Birthday Orange Beach | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Happy Birthday Orange Beach | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "What do you do when your town celebrates its silver anniversary? Toss a block party and invite the community, of course. And this is precisely what the City of Orange Beach is doing 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29, as the fishing village and tourist destination tosses a block party to commemorate its 25th official year of incorporation. Those in attendance will enjoy local cuisine, live music by local icon Brent Burns, kids' activities, Orange Beach historical displays and much more."

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Another low year for oyster harvest - al.com

Another low year for oyster harvest - al.com: "If you favor a dozen or so Alabama oysters, you probably already know that the oyster harvest in Alabama has been catastrophically low for more than a year.

Preliminary data from the Alabama Marine Resources Division of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources shows landings of less than 73,000 pounds of oyster meats in 2008.

To put that in perspective, more than 759,000 pounds of meat were harvested in 2002 — the second worst year from 2001 to present — and more than 1 million pounds of oyster meats were landed in 2005."

Baldwin County Coroner Jim Small hospitalized - al.com

Baldwin County Coroner Jim Small hospitalized - al.com: "Baldwin County Coroner Jim Small has been hospitalized at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center and was listed in critical condition, apparently having contracted an infection during back surgery he underwent earlier this month.

Baldwin County Sheriff Huey 'Hoss' Mack Jr., who is a close friend of Small's, said Tuesday afternoon that Small was admitted to the Foley hospital Sunday, about two weeks after his back operation."

FEMA reduces claim, but still wants Baldwin County to repay $5.8 million - al.com

FEMA reduces claim, but still wants Baldwin County to repay $5.8 million - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — The Federal Emergency Management Agency has decided that Baldwin County should repay more than half the $10.5 million in hurricane cleanup reimbursements challenged by U.S. government auditors.

Now county officials will consider whether to continue fighting the $5.8 million claim through an appeal or arbitration, said County Administrator Michael Thompson.

'They are going in the right direction,' Thompson said of the FEMA decision. 'We're halfway there.'"

Alabama catfish farmers get $9 million in stimulus money; Gulf Coast fishermen say they also need help - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Alabama catfish farmers get $9 million in stimulus money; Gulf Coast fishermen say they also need help - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- Upstate catfish farmers have received nearly $9 million in federal stimulus money since mid-July, Alabama Agriculture and Industries Commissioner Ron Sparks announced Tuesday.

Onshore fisheries, rather than fish farms or wild fishing operations in the Gulf of Mexico, received the money.

Some Gulf Coast fishermen said they could have used the help."

Pleasure Island Prepares to Welcome Expanded Triathlon Weekend as Event Registration Opens - PR.com

Pleasure Island Prepares to Welcome Expanded Triathlon Weekend as Event Registration Opens - PR.com: "The Brett-Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon and the new Coastal “Tri-It-On” Triathlon are set for Saturday, September 19, 2009 in Gulf Shores, Ala.

Gulf Shores, AL, August 26, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Anticipation continues to build among the racing community as the area’s premier triathlon - and its new sister event of a shortened triathlon - grows closer each day. Registration recently opened for the Brett-Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon and the new Coastal “Tri-It-On” Triathlon, both of which are set for Saturday, September 19, 2009 in the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach area."

Developer's suit against city dismissed - al.com

Developer's suit against city dismissed - al.com: "A Baldwin County Circuit Court judge has dismissed a lawsuit developer Ken Wall filed against Orange Beach and its former city planner two years ago in which he alleged errors on the municipal zoning map led him to overpay for a small parcel at Boggy Point.

Wall had claimed in the lawsuit that in 2005 he paid $2 million for less than an acre at the terminus of Marina Road after a trip to City Hall led him to believe that the property was unzoned and in Baldwin County's jurisdiction.

Had that been the case, the development possibilities would have been far more lucrative than what they turned out to be. Eventually Wall learned that Orange Beach had annexed the land in 1987 and that it was zoned, like neighboring plots, for single-family homes."

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Baldwin school officials plan 'emergency summit' on budget shortfall - al.com

Baldwin school officials plan 'emergency summit' on budget shortfall - al.com: "Spending cuts, including 205 layoffs last week, are not enough to balance the Baldwin County education budget, so school officials have scheduled a meeting Thursday afternoon with state and federal representatives to ask for help.

The school board is looking for $4.5 million in either cuts or new funding. Board members plan to confer with state Revenue Commissioner Tim Russell and U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner, R-Mobile, in an 'emergency school finance summit' at Daphne High.

County commissioners and Baldwin lawmakers have also been invited, as have Randy McKinney, state school board representative, and Joe Morton, director of the Alabama Department of Education, according to school system reports."

Talkback: Where did you retire? - CNNMoney.com Talkback

Talkback: Where did you retire? - CNNMoney.com Talkback: "After we sold my company, I stayed on for a couple of years and then we retired to a beach house in Orange Beach, AL. While there are a lot of new rental condo’s on the beach, it’s still a small town with very few full time residents. We just bought a cabin in Gatlinburg, TN to have a place to go when the summer heat and humidity get too bad, and to get a little rental income as well."

Talkback: Where did you retire? - CNNMoney.com Talkback

Talkback: Where did you retire? - CNNMoney.com Talkback: "After we sold my company, I stayed on for a couple of years and then we retired to a beach house in Orange Beach, AL. While there are a lot of new rental condo’s on the beach, it’s still a small town with very few full time residents. We just bought a cabin in Gatlinburg, TN to have a place to go when the summer heat and humidity get too bad, and to get a little rental income as well."

Official defends Lockerbie decision - USATODAY.com

Official defends Lockerbie decision - USATODAY.com: "'I don't support a boycott of Scotland,' said Judy Dios, of Orange Beach, Ala., whose sister died on the flight. 'MacAskill's actions don't reflect his people. I don't think we should punish the whole country.'"

Monday, August 24, 2009

Foley council drops plans for center - al.com

Foley council drops plans for center - al.com: "A $14 million events center for Foley is the latest project to fall victim to slow economic times as the City Council voted to shelve plans for the facility, officials said.

The council voted last week to rescind the resolution to go out for bids on the project, said Councilman Wayne Trawick.

The motion passed Aug. 17 told the architectural firm of Hatch Mott McDonald to inform bidders that plans for the center are postponed until city officials determine that Foley can afford to move forward."

Oyster reef aims to shield shoreline | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Oyster reef aims to shield shoreline | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "Storm clouds and lightning loomed late last week as coastal reef engineers rushed to beat the clock on Deadman’s Island.

The engineers worked Thursday to finish installing 154 oyster reef units along the northern face of the island before today’s deadline. This week marks the beginning of the migration of Gulf sturgeon, a threatened species of fish. The sturgeon travel from East Bay through Pensacola Bay to spawn between September and May. All major marine construction comes to a halt in area waters at this time."

New town, good attitude - al.com

New town, good attitude - al.com: "BALDWIN COUNTY'S newest town, Perdido Beach, is getting off to a nice start.

The Press-Register editorial board is forced to spend a good deal of newsprint on the importance of open government; and all too often, long-established municipalities and school boards don't seem to grasp the concept or the applicable law. But in Perdido Beach, the new mayor says she and the new Town Council started inviting the public to informal meetings before they were even sworn in."

Sunday, August 23, 2009

First mayor, town council take office - al.com

First mayor, town council take office - al.com: "PERDIDO BEACH — Some 4 months old, the town of Perdido Beach, though still without laws, money or even a City Hall, now has leaders.

On Thursday evening, members of the inaugural town council took their oath of office in a half-hour ceremony at the Perdido Beach Baptist Church.

About 100 people filled the small church, meaning that nearly 20 percent of Baldwin County's least populated municipality turned out to see Mayor Patsy Parker and council members Al Thompson, William Kelley, Ronnie Resmondo, Patti Larsen and Dennis Kaiser sworn in by Baldwin County Probate Judge Adrian Johns."

Scholarships awarded to three Lillian students - al.com

Scholarships awarded to three Lillian students - al.com: "The Lillian Women's Club, Lillian Action Committee and Floyd Replogle recently presented tuition grants to three college-bound young women from Lillian.

Jordan Frady received her award from Char Kuhr, president of the women's club, and Jaclyn Morelock and Lindsey Russell accepted their grants from Lillian newspaper editor Replogle and LAC during the annual Lillian Community Club"

Gulf Shores Work Session - al.com

Gulf Shores Work Session - al.com: "4 p.m. Monday City Hall

Presentation of Petitions, Requests and Communications

A. Application for public assembly permit: Alabama Coastal Triathlon."

Boating course scheduled - al.com

Boating course scheduled - al.com: "The Perdido Bay Power Squadron will offer a Boating Safety Course from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 26 at the Magnolia Springs Fire Department.

Perdido Bay Power Squadron members provide free instruction for the course, which meets all current Alabama boating license requirements. Alabama law mandates that every operator of a motorized vessel, sailboat or personal watercraft must be licensed."

Fine arts classes offered - al.com

Fine arts classes offered - al.com: "The Foley Performing Arts Association is offering a slate of classes in the fine arts.

Experienced classroom teachers will offer the classes beginning Sept. 14 which will run for 12 weeks."

Glass-blowing classes set at arts center - al.com

Glass-blowing classes set at arts center - al.com: "Fall classes at the Orange Beach Arts Center will include the area's first courses in glass blowing.

Instructor Joe Hobbs will teach two kinds of classes on Saturdays at the new Hot Shop at Orange Beach Arts Center, the state's only public-access glass-blowing studio."

WEAR ABC 3 : Red Snapper World Championship Awards

WEAR ABC 3 :: Top Stories: "GULF SHORES, AL - The awards ceremony for the Red Snapper World Tournament was held this afternoon in Orange Beach.

The winner was Pensacola native Tom Aldridge.

Aldridge took home the top prize of a 2009 Toyota Tundra From Eastern Shore Toyota.

Anglers from around the world competed to win over 200 thousand dollars in cash and prizes."

Baldwin County, Ala. residents pack final town hall meetings to express their own opposition to health care bill - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Baldwin County, Ala. residents pack final town hall meetings to express their own opposition to health care bill - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "ROBERTSDALE, Ala. -- City Hall's council chamber was packed with more than 150 people early Friday, as U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner began the last day of a nearly week-long tour including 19 town hall meetings -- all of them about the health care bill being considered by Congress.

'Mayor, we've got to get you a bigger City Hall,' Bonner, R-Mobile, said at the meeting's start. Mayor Charles Murphy replied that he appreciated the congressman's concern, but the council chamber had likely never been so full.

'Our last meeting lasted about four minutes,' Murphy told Bonner as the audience laughed."

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Deals, discounts fuel resort market - al.com

Deals, discounts fuel resort market - al.com: "Realtor Steve Neitzel has already sold five condominium units in August and predicts his best months will be this fall.

'We've cut half of our inventory because of the great deals,' said Neitzel of Brett Robinson Real Estate in Gulf Shores.

Prices in the current market can be summed up as 'what someone is willing to pay,' said Neitzel, who sold a large Gulf-front unit in Phoenix 9 in Orange Beach for $700,000, a half-million less than the original asking price."

Balky Condo buyers sued - al.com

Balky Condo buyers sued - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — The Arkansas firm that built the 20-story Escapes! to the Shores condo tower has sued a pair of men and their Florida investment adviser for pulling out of a deal late last year to buy the resort for $36 million.

In the suit, filed earlier this month in Mobile's federal court, Escapes! Inc. claims that, believing it had a buyer, it took the property off the market and missed out on opportunities to sell the resort to someone else while it was still eligible for federal Gulf Opportunity Zone tax breaks.

'We had a deal with these people, and they backed out, and they did so at the worst possible time,' said Escapes! attorney Russel Myles."

Friday, August 21, 2009

Catching a continuous wave - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

Catching a continuous wave - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "GULF SHORES, Ala. — Hundreds of athletes and fans gathered at Gulf Shores’ Waterville U.S.A. over the weekend for the Wave Loch Flowrider National Championship.

The three-day event, which was the final stop of a 16-sight nationwide Flow Tour, brought competitors of the relatively young sport from all across the United States."

Glass blowing studio opens | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Glass blowing studio opens | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "This weekend the art rich community of Orange Beach, Ala., will thrive with the grand opening of The Hot Shop, an authentic glass blowing studio as part of the Orange Beach Arts Center."

Things to Do | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Things to Do | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "6 p.m. Tuesday, Orange Beach Community Center, 27235 Canal Road, Orange Beach, Ala. The form will begin with an update on the city's activities, events and issues by mayor Tom Kennon. The update is set to include reports from the city council, city manager and department heads. A question and answer session for the public will follow. The regular city council work session begins prior to the forum at 5 p.m. Details: Ron David, (251) 980-6229.

AUG. 21: Grand opening for glass-blowing studio

6 to 9 p.m., Orange Beach Art Center, 26389 Canal Road, Orange Beach, Ala. The art center in Orange Beach will be the state's first and only glass-blowing studio available for public use. The studio will be available for tours, classes, demonstrations, special events and for individuals or companies to rent. The glass equipment was donated by Bear Creek Glass. Details: (251) 981-2787."

More Job Cuts In Baldwin County Schools - Baldwin County Job Cuts Baldwin County Schools - WKRG.com

More Job Cuts In Baldwin County Schools - Baldwin County Job Cuts Baldwin County Schools - WKRG.com: "In one month, more people in Baldwin County will be out of a job. Thursday night, the Baldwin County School Board approved more job cuts. Support staff at schools will be cut."
WKRG.com News

Town historic preservation ordinance set for vote - al.com

Town historic preservation ordinance set for vote - al.com: "MAGNOLIA SPRINGS — After several months of preparation, an ordinance to protect historic buildings that have been without regulation for the last three years is ready for a vote by the Town Council, municipal officials said.

The ordinance setting up a historic preservation district in Magnolia Springs will be decided on at Tuesday's meeting, said Councilman Ken Underwood.

If the regulations are approved, owners of property in the district, which includes most of the town, will require a permit from the town's Historic Preservation Commission before making exterior changes, Underwood said."

Baldwin County lays off 205 more school employees - al.com

Baldwin County lays off 205 more school employees - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — The construction coordinator and nursing supervisor were among 205 Baldwin County public school employees laid off Thursday night as the Board of Education seeks ways to balance the system's budget.

The board voted to release all classified employees who have been working less than three years and were still in their probation period. No teachers were included among the employees to be released, but the list of cuts includes Walter Ken Mason, construction coordinator, and Martha Holloway, nursing supervisor.

In addition to Holloway, 12 other nurses, out of a staff of 56, were on the termination list, which cuts the number of classified employees, now numbering about 1,800, by more than 11 percent, according to school system reports."

Baldwin to lay off 205 more school employees - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Baldwin to lay off 205 more school employees - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "The Baldwin County Board of Education voted tonight to lay off 205 more school system employees in an effort to trim $14 million from the budget.

No teachers were on the list, but the layoffs do include Walter Ken Mason, construction coordinator, and Martha Holloway, nursing supervisor. In addition to Holloway, 12 other nurses, out of a staff of 56, were on the termination list, which cuts the number of classified employees, now about 1,800, by more than 11 percent, according to school system reports."

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Injured Foley motorcyclist is arrested - al.com

Injured Foley motorcyclist is arrested - al.com: "A Foley man injured Tuesday afternoon in an accident on Ala. 59 was arrested Wednesday after police learned the motorcycle he was riding had been stolen, investigators said.

Anthony Barlow, 21, was flown to Baptist Hospital in Pensacola after the accident at the intersection of Keller Road in Foley, said Lt. Thurston Bullock, patrol division commander.

Bullock said Barlow was riding on Ala. 59 when a car turned in front of him. 'He clipped the fender and went airborne,' Bullock said."

Conference spotlights Eastern Shore - al.com

Conference spotlights Eastern Shore - al.com: "The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce will hold the 2009 Alabama Governor's Conference on Tourism.

Aug. 29-Sept. 1, at the Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Spa and Golf Club in Point Clear.

Tourism industry representatives from all areas of the state will discuss the latest trends in the tourism industry.

The conference is not limited to those in the industry. The fee is $450. Sign up online at www.algovernorsconference.com. "

Baldwin school officials call emergency meeting to address funding woes - al.com

Baldwin school officials call emergency meeting to address funding woes - al.com: "Baldwin County education officials have called an emergency meeting with state and federal officials to search for ways to avoid laying off more teachers and other employees.

The Board of Education will meet Aug. 27 with state Revenue Commissioner Tim Russell and U.S. Rep. Jo Bonner, R-Mobile, in an effort to get more money.

The 'emergency financial summit' will be held at 1:30 p.m. at Trojan Hall of Daphne High School, said Faron Hollinger, Baldwin County superintendent."

Swine flu in Baldwin County schools | Fox10tv.com

Swine flu in Baldwin County schools | Fox10tv.com: "BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. - Teachers, parents and the medical community have been bracing for an early onset of the flu this season.

Terry Wilhite, with the Baldwin County Public School System, said there are confirmed cases of swine flu in at least half of the 45 schools."

Swim advisory issued for Fairhope Beach | Fox10tv.com

Swim advisory issued for Fairhope Beach | Fox10tv.com: "FAIRHOPE, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) advises the public that two recent tests of swimming water quality at the Fairhope Public Beach were poor.

Swimming in these areas may lead to an increased risk of illness. Monitoring will continue and the advisory will be lifted once bacteria values fall."

Facing $700,000 deficit, Gulf Shores mayor calls for cutbacks - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Facing $700,000 deficit, Gulf Shores mayor calls for cutbacks - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "GULF SHORES -- On pace for an end-of-year $700,000 deficit and facing a certain decline in income with the end of the tourism season, Mayor Robert Craft on Monday called for city department heads to look for ways to cut spending and delay expensive projects."

Holy Shark - Baldwin County NOW

Holy Shark - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "GULF SHORES, Ala. — What is 40 feet long, several tons heavy, and can be seen along the Gulf Coast?

For dive instructor Shane Anderson, it was something he has not seen in 16 years of scuba diving. But the 11-year veteran of the Down Under Dive Shop in Gulf Shores recently came face to face with a Rhincodon typus, better knows as a whale shark.

Over the past several weeks, there have been reports of whale shark sightings, but Anderson and a number of other local divers recently spotted two different whale sharks in the same week."

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Facing shortfall, Gulf Shores mayor urges thrift - al.com

Facing shortfall, Gulf Shores mayor urges thrift - al.com: "GULF SHORES — On pace for an end-of-year $700,000 deficit and facing a certain decline in income with the end of the tourism season, Mayor Robert Craft on Monday called for city department heads to look for ways to cut spending and delay expensive projects.

When outlining their 2009 spending plan late last year, city officials projected that revenues would fall from 2008 collections by about $2.6 million to $23.5 million. Even with those lowered expectations and decreased spending — including layoffs — revenue of $23.5 million would put Gulf Shores in a $700,000 deficit.

Councilman Jason Dyken, who chairs the council's Finance Committee, said 'we're within one-tenth of 1 percent in terms of our projections,' which means Gulf Shores is on target for the forecast deficit. Said Dyken: 'We have a problem to overcome.'"

Cities give Web sites a facelift - al.com

Cities give Web sites a facelift - al.com: "Cities around Baldwin County have a new look — on the Web, that is.

Foley, Fairhope and Gulf Shores have focused on improving the aesthetics and organization of their cities' Web sites over the summer months to improve usability and clarity of information.

Come September, Gulf Shores will have a renovated Web site that celebrates the city's 'water way of life,' according to its information systems division."

Dauphin Island hires expert to help save eroding beaches - al.com

Dauphin Island hires expert to help save eroding beaches - al.com: "The Town of Dauphin Island has hired well-known coastal engineer Scott Douglass to recommend how to restore the island's eroded beaches along the Gulf of Mexico and to suggest ways to pay for the work.

Mayor Jeff Collier said that Douglass' report, expected this fall, should help advance efforts of the past two years to rebuild the barrier island, which has lost hundreds of feet from erosion in recent decades.

'The island needs a unified voice so that we are all on the same page,' the mayor said."

Tulsa Today - A lesson in leaving

Tulsa Today - A lesson in leaving: "The drive to the Alabama coastline is one that I have been making for most of my life.

I’ve been to both Orange Beach and Gulf Shores as well as the Florida coastline."

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Orange Beach uniform store owner saw a need and filled it - al.com

Orange Beach uniform store owner saw a need and filled it - al.com: "The best thing about living in Orange Beach for Traci Kontoulas is the small-town feeling she grew up knowing and that she said returns each winter after the summer vacation season is over.

'I remember when we had very little here,' Kontoulas said. 'I graduated from Foley High School because there was no Gulf Shores High School back then, and I liked the experience of getting to meet a lot of different people from around the area.'

She left her hometown to attend college at Troy University, where she got her degree in business and criminal justice, but when she returned home, she went to work for her father instead of pursuing a career in law enforcement."

Scientists launch study of manatees in coastal Alabama waters - al.com

Scientists launch study of manatees in coastal Alabama waters - al.com: "An estimated 12 to 25 manatees make their summer homes in the vegetation-rich waters of Mobile Bay and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta, and researchers are asking fishermen, boaters and beachgoers to help find them this week.

Over the next few days, Dauphin Island Sea Lab scientists will be joined by about six Florida experts as they scour the delta and the bay in an airplane, three boats and on foot to look for manatees. The Florida team from Sea World Orlando, the Sea to Shore Alliance and Wildlife Trust is expected to arrive today.

The effort is part of the Mobile Manatee Sighting Network's ongoing study of Alabama's seasonal manatee population, which scientists say has increased in recent years."

Fallen Marine Bruce E. Ferrell laid to rest in Perdido - al.com

Fallen Marine Bruce E. Ferrell laid to rest in Perdido - al.com: "PERDIDO — Rifles cracked in salute, loved ones wept and a bugler played taps as Marine Lance Cpl. Bruce Earnest 'Bubba' Ferrell Jr. was buried Monday.

Ferrell, 21, of Perdido was a machine gunner with the 8th Marine Regiment, when he died Aug. 10. He was on a foot patrol in the Helmand province west of Kandahar in Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device detonated.

On Monday, Ferrell was buried at Bryars-McGill Cemetery, next to his sister, Danielle Denise Whatley, who died in a traffic accident in 2006, also at age 21. The Marine was the eldest son of Pam and Bruce Ferrell Sr."

First-ever mayor and council sworn in for new town of Perdido Beach - al.com

First-ever mayor and council sworn in for new town of Perdido Beach - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — The first mayor and council of the new town of Perdido Beach will be sworn in this week after an October election was canceled when each race drew only one unchallenged candidate, Baldwin County Probate Judge Adrian Johns said.

Incorporation was approved in April, and a municipal election was set for Oct. 6. But when the candidate qualifying period ended July 31, there was only one in each race, probate office officials said.

The town's leaders will be Patsy Parker, mayor; and Patti Larsen, Dennis Kaiser, William Kelley, Ronnie Resmondo and Al Thompson on the Town Council, county officials said."

'It makes you more athletic - al.com

'It makes you more athletic - al.com: "Virginia Jones is only a sophomore, yet she's already one of the top volleyball players at Gulf Shores High.

So what's behind her early success?"

Boater tells of locating Long Wiggins | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Boater tells of locating Long Wiggins | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "Court documents released Monday shed light on the events leading to the questioning of Pamela Long Wiggins in the deaths of Byrd and Melanie Billings.

Timothy Dale Powell has his boat in a slip at the Wharh Marina in Orange Beach, Ala. Long Wiggins' yacht, "The Classy Lady," was moored next to Powell's at a slip registered to Patrick Gonzalez. Leonard Patrick Gonzalez Jr. has been accused of killing the Billings during the July 9 home invasion."

Glass-blowing studio plans grand opening - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

Glass-blowing studio plans grand opening - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — The grand opening of Alabama’s first glass-blowing studio available to the public will be Aug. 21, from 6 to 9 p.m. The studio, called The Hot Shop at Orange Beach Arts Center, will be available for tours, demonstrations, classes and rental after the opening."

Monday, August 17, 2009

WHALE SHARK JOURNAL: - al.com

WHALE SHARK JOURNAL: - al.com: "There may never be a better time or place to have an encounter with the world's largest fish than right now off the Alabama coast.

For the past few weeks, unprecedented numbers of whale sharks have been seen cruising just a few miles off the beach, their broad snouts and tall dorsal fins breaking the surface as they swim lazily along, mouths agape, sucking in plankton.

I saw my first one a week ago while in the company of Eric Hoffmayer, a man who studies the giants for a living. He tagged a whale shark that day, only the sixth time that's ever been done in the Gulf."

Storms pop up all over - al.com

Storms pop up all over - al.com: "As Gulf Coast residents mark the 40th anniversary of one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit the region, they are saying goodbye to a system that sprang up in the Gulf of Mexico while turning attention to a pair of tropical systems farther east.

Tropical Storm Claudette, a surprise system that developed early Sunday in the eastern Gulf of Mexico, boasted winds near 50 mph at 10 p.m. Sunday and was expected to move ashore after midnight over the Florida Panhandle and continue northwestward.

Tropical storms warnings were issued for Escambia and Conecuh counties in southwest Alabama as well as counties central and south-central Alabama on Sunday."

Another Day At The Beach - Storm Pensacola Beach - WKRG.com

Another Day At The Beach - Storm Pensacola Beach - WKRG.com: "Despite the tropical weather outlook, it's just another day at the beach in Pensacola. Folks were taking in the surf and overcast skies today, 8/16/2009. Casino Beach was fairly full today even with the forecasts looking grim. Most people we talked with were more interested in enjoying the day than worrying about the storm. Still some people are getting a few things squared away."
WKRG.com News

Concert to benefit Habitat for Humanity build in Foley - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

Concert to benefit Habitat for Humanity build in Foley - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "FOLEY, Ala. — The Sandspur Band, proclaimed by the Alabama Legislature as “The Stained Glass Bluegrass Band of Alabama,” will give a benefit concert Aug. 23, with proceeds helping construct a Habitat for Humanity home in Foley."

Whale sharks: Previously rare in local waters, world's largest fish recently spotted with frequency off Alabama coast - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Whale sharks: Previously rare in local waters, world's largest fish recently spotted with frequency off Alabama coast - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "'We know almost nothing about these animals. Maybe they're in this part of the Gulf every year, and nobody knows it,' Hoffmayer said. 'There's no question the animals are here to feed. The question is, what is so unusual with the plankton in the area this year that it has drawn all these animals?'"
Scientist talks about Gulf Coast whale shark sightings












A Vision in Glass: The Hot Shop @ Orange Beach Arts Center will have its grand opening Aug. 21 - Press-Register Entertainment - al.com

A Vision in Glass: The Hot Shop @ Orange Beach Arts Center will have its grand opening Aug. 21 - Press-Register Entertainment - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. -- Wanda Price describes 'The Hot Shop @ Orange Beach Arts Center' as part of the center's 'grand big vision.'

Mayor Tony Kennon says the public-use glass studio reflects the uniqueness of the community and fills a niche as an educational opportunity for youngsters.

'Even in tough economic times, there are some things that are too good to pass up,' says Kennon, 'and you just have to figure out how to make it happen. It's going to be fantastic, no doubt in my mind.'"

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Nation-Wide Flow Tour Rides in Town for Championships - PR.com

Nation-Wide Flow Tour Rides in Town for Championships - PR.com: "Gulf Shores, AL, August 16, 2009 --(PR.com)-- After a five month-long tour that has traveled to all corners of the nation, the 2009 Wave Loch Flow Tour surfs into town for its National Championships, which will be held August 14th through 16th at Waterville USA in Gulf Shores, Ala. Previously held in a west coast beach town, the tour changed venues for 2009 and opted to end the 16-stop nationwide tour in coastal Alabama."

Whale shark sightings baffle scientists�| ajc.com

Whale shark sightings baffle scientists| ajc.com: "Scientists say they are baffled by the soaring number of whale shark sightings this summer in the northern Gulf of Mexico , an area where the huge polka-dotted fish have been a rare spectacle in the past.

'The sheer number of anecdotal reports from the public is amazing,” said Sarasota-based shark scientist Bob Hueter. “There’s obviously something going on.'"

Scientists tag whale sharks in rare encounters close to Alabama coast - al.com

Scientists tag whale sharks in rare encounters close to Alabama coast - al.com: "In other years, scientists said, multiple sightings of whale sharks off Alabama would have been so rare as to be almost unbelievable.

But for the past two weeks, the Alabama coast has been one of the best places in the world to see the ocean's largest fish, with dozens of sightings reported to a whale shark Web site by fishermen, scuba divers and pilots.

The gigantic plankton-eating sharks have been seen as far east as Panama City and as far west as Petit Bois Island off Mississippi. But the bulk of the reports have come from the area between Orange Beach and Pensacola, with one sighting just two miles off the beach."

al.com: Swimming with a Whale Shark

al.com: Sports: "I had the opportunity to live a moment last week that could help it rank as one of my best weeks ever and one of the coolest things I've done in my 49-plus years.

On Monday, I swam with a whale shark. It's hard to explain the experience of swimming with the biggest fish in the sea.

Before someone has a fit while burning up Sound Off phone lines: blue whales are mammals, whale sharks are fish. Whale sharks, which can grow to be 60 feet long and weigh more than 5 tons, are the biggest fish in the sea."

Deals, discounts fuel resort market - al.com

Deals, discounts fuel resort market - al.com: "Realtor Steve Neitzel has already sold five condominium units in August and predicts his best months will be this fall.

'We've cut half of our inventory because of the great deals,' said Neitzel of Brett Robinson Real Estate in Gulf Shores.

Prices in the current market can be summed up as 'what someone is willing to pay,' said Neitzel, who sold a large Gulf-front unit in Phoenix 9 in Orange Beach for $700,000, a half-million less than the original asking price."

Saturday, August 15, 2009

Colonial Bank biggest failure in state history - WSFA 12 News Montgomery, AL |

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - The Alabama State Banking Department took possession of failed Montgomery-based Colonial Bank Friday evening.

Colonial's collapse is the largest ever in Alabama and the biggest yet for 2009."

Arrest made in MySpace terror threats | Fox10tv.com

Arrest made in MySpace terror threats | Fox10tv.com: "MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Attorney General Troy King announced the arrest of a Spanish Fort woman, for making terrorist threats and harassing communications over the MySpace network.

Angela Michelle Grill, 20, was arrested by agents of the Attorney General's Office and taken to the Baldwin County Jail."

Montgomery may end curbside recyling program | montgomeryadvertiser.com | Montgomery Advertiser

Montgomery may end curbside recyling program | montgomeryadvertiser.com | Montgomery Advertiser: "But Strange said Friday that Montgomery is working on bringing more viable recycling programs to the city. It's already negotiating with Team Green Recycling, a private Orange Beach company, about the possibility of running the city's recycling program."

Friday, August 14, 2009

Public forum planned - al.com

Public forum planned - al.com: "The Orange Beach Citizens Association, will host a public forum at 6 p.m. Aug. 25 at the Orange Beach Community Center. The regular Orange Beach City Council work session will be held prior to the meeting at 5 p.m. and everyone is invited to attend both meetings.

The forum will begin with a short update on the city's activities, events and issues by Mayor Tony Kennon and will include reports from the City Council, city manager and department heads. This will be followed by questions and answers from the residents of Orange Beach."

Central Baldwin chamber offers taste of Baldwin - al.com

Central Baldwin chamber offers taste of Baldwin - al.com: "The Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce held its sixth annual 'Flavors of the South' food and wine tasting at the Baldwin County Coliseum on July 23 with nearly 400 present to sample Baldwin County food and wines.

'I think it was the best one to date,' said Donna Givens of Baldwin EMC. 'The variety of food was just amazing.'"

Hospitality work, chamber volunteering are her specialties - al.com

Hospitality work, chamber volunteering are her specialties - al.com: "History and hospitality are two areas of particular interest to Michelle Hodges, so when the Foley native decided to settle on a career, returning to the Gulf Coast was a natural choice.

'I'm one of those 'born and bred' in Foley people. I went to Foley Elementary all the way through Foley High School,' Hodges said. 'It's amazing all that's happened here since then, and I've become very interested in the development of the area.'

Her interest in local history followed from her work with Meyer Real Estate, where she began learning about the company's founder."

Geocaching draws more attention to state park - al.com

Geocaching draws more attention to state park - al.com: "The nationally recognized Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers visitors glimpses of local wildlife in their natural habitats and now includes a form of new-age treasure hunting — geocaching.

Members of the Orange Beach City Council and the Gulf State Park system, including Branyon, were at the trail Wednesday to post signs that displayed the site's newly acquired recognition from the Department of the Interior as a national recreation trail.

The Branyon Trail is the third site in Alabama to receive the honor, joining the Alabama Scenic River Trail and Pinhoti Trail in the exclusive group."

Fla. Doctor Fired over “Donuts=Death” Sign - Florida Health Department Doctor Sign - WKRG.com

Fla. Doctor Fired over “Donuts=Death” Sign - Florida Health Department Doctor Sign - WKRG.com: "(AP) Dr. Jason Newsom railed against burgers, french fries, fried chicken and sweet tea in his campaign to promote better eating in a part of the country known as the Redneck Riviera. He might still be leading the charge if he had only left the doughnuts alone.

A 38-year-old former Army doctor who served in Iraq, Newsom returned home to Panama City a few years ago to run the Bay County Health Department and launched a one-man war on obesity by posting sardonic warnings on an electronic sign outside:

'Sweet Tea = Liquid Sugar.'

'Hamburger = Spare Tire.'

'French Fries = Thunder Thighs.'

He also called out KFC by name to make people think twice about fried chicken.

Then he parodied 'America Runs on Dunkin',' the doughnut chain's slogan, with: 'America Dies on Dunkin'.'

Some power players in the Gulf Coast tourist town decided they had had their fill."

Boat Capsizes In The Gulf, Coast Guard Rescues Six - Coast Guard Gulf Of Mexico Boating Accident - WKRG.com

Boat Capsizes In The Gulf, Coast Guard Rescues Six - Coast Guard Gulf Of Mexico Boating Accident - WKRG.com: "PETIT BOIS ISLAND, Miss. (AP) - Coast Guard officials say one
man died and six others were rescued when a boat capsized south of
Petit Bois Island off the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

The identity of the body found in the pilot house of the vessel
Wednesday has not been released pending identification and next of
kin notifications."

Tourist Dollars Could Help Baldwin Schools - Alabama Baldwin County Tax Gulf Shores - WKRG.com

Tourist Dollars Could Help Baldwin Schools - Alabama Baldwin County Tax Gulf Shores - WKRG.com: "Sales are up this summer at many businesses on Pleasure Island. The summer tourist season was a profitable one.

'Our June numbers are in and we saw about a two percent increase in tourist expenditures,' says Herb Malone with the Alabama Gulf Coast Tourism and Visitor's Bureau.'"
WKRG.com News

Remembering a Marine | Fox10tv.com

Remembering a Marine | Fox10tv.com: "PERDIDO, Ala. - The death of a child is every parent's worst nightmare. For one Baldwin County family, that nightmare has come true twice in the last two years.

Pamela and Bruce Ferrell lost their oldest daughter to a car crash in December of 2006 and got word Monday morning that their 21-year-old son had been killed."

Geocaching in Gulf State Park - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Geocaching in Gulf State Park - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "The nationally recognized Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail offers visitors glimpses of local wildlife in their natural habitats and now includes a form of new-age treasure hunting -- geocaching.

Members of the Orange Beach City Council and the Gulf State Park system, including Branyon, were at the trail Wednesday to post signs that displayed the site's newly acquired recognition from the Department of the Interior as a national recreation trail."

Gulf Shores' "Little Zoo That Could" headed to larger facility - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Gulf Shores' "Little Zoo That Could" headed to larger facility - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "GULF SHORES, Ala. -- 'The Little Zoo That Could' should be in new, larger digs by early 2011, but the menagerie will retain the small-park charm that made it the star of a 2006 Animal Planet television series, Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo officials said Wednesday."

Coastal insurance not just Alabama issue - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Coastal insurance not just Alabama issue - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "Insurance is a major issue along the entire Gulf Coast, not just Alabama, and officials in several states are working together to resolve issues such as cost, availability and concerns that legislation could increase rates in areas away from the coast, state Rep. Steve McMillan, R-Gulf Shores, said today."

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Pleasure Island Rotary Club Installs New Officers

August 13, 2009 - Orange Beach, AL - New officers for the Pleasure Island Rotary Club were recently installed at the annual barbeque held at the home of Tom and Beverly Steber. New officers are: President, Bonnie Lee; President-Elect, Alan Barnes; Vice President, Bruce Austin; Secretary, Stan Miller; Treasurer, Alisa McLeod and Sargent at Arms, Beverly Steber and Peggy Riley. The Rotary motto Service Above Self conveys the humanitarian spirit of the organization’s more than 1.2 million members. Strong fellowship among Rotarians and meaningful community and international service projects characterize Rotary worldwide.

The Pleasure Island Rotary Club meets on every Thursday for lunch, 12:00 noon at the Sunset Cork Room in Gulf Shores.

The bounty of the sea �| ajc.com

The bounty of the sea �| ajc.com: "“The Southeast Tourism Society has seen a marked increase in the number of seafood festivals applying to be a Top 20 Event,” says Neville Bhada, vice president of communications and public relations for the Atlanta-based society that awards Top 20 designations to Southeast festivals for each month. Several top festivals, like the North Carolina Seafood Festival along the state’s Crystal Coast, and the National Shrimp Festival in Alabama’s Gulf Shores, have been around for decades, attracting thousands of hungry veterans and first-time festival-goers."

Multiple Encounters With Whale Sharks Near Orange Beach

Multiple Encounters With Whale Sharks Near Orange Beach: "August 13, 2009 - Orange Beach, AL (OBA) - Multiple close encounters with large Whale Sharks in the Gulf of Mexico have been reported over the last couple of weeks. According to Gary Emerson of Gary’s Gulf Divers, he has heard numerous reports of Whale Shark sightings from Panama City to Destin to Orange Beach, all in the last couple of weeks."

Here We Go, by Andy Andrews

Here We Go from Andy Andrews on Vimeo.

Reefs target erosion on Deadman's Island | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Reefs target erosion on Deadman's Island | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "Old oyster shells got a fresh start Wednesday when workers constructed dozens of oyster reefs to protect a Gulf Breeze landmark that has slowly eroded for more than 50 years."

Amber Isle plans resurrected - al.com

Amber Isle plans resurrected - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — Retooled plans for the Amber Isle resort project, which has lingered unbuilt for more than five years, have been filed and city officials say they expect the developers to ask for, but likely not receive, tax breaks to get the project built.

First proposed in late 2003 as a 12-story, 110-room Holiday Inn and a pair of low-rise buildings with retail space and 96 condominiums, the Amber Isle project sits on the north side of Ala. 182 at the westernmost edge of town. The project borders the Gulf State Park and is currently proposed as a pair of hotel buildings — White Sands and Amber Isle — encompassing 383 hotel rooms and meeting space.

In less than six years, the plans have undergone substantial revision four times, city records show. In 2004, the 124 hotel rooms in the project's White Sands building were converted into 110 condos. A year later the White Sands condo count was upped to 130, while Amber Isle's 96 condo units and retail space remained as they were originally proposed."

School board develops cost-cutting plan - al.com

School board develops cost-cutting plan - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — With additional revenue off the table, Baldwin County Board of Education officials will now begin solving the difficult math problem of making more work force and cost reductions after the academic year has already begun.

The school board on Tuesday voted 5-2 to withdraw its request for the County Commission to enact a 1-cent sales tax increase. Several members expressed disappointment at the lack of support.

'I feel like the sales tax was necessary,' said board member Norm Moore, who along with member Bob Callahan voted no."

WEAR ABC 3

WEAR ABC 3: "ESCAMBIA COUNTY - From heavy rain to lightning... Severe storms swept through the area Wednesday.

One man was taken to the hospital after getting struck by lightning. The 49-year-old was working at an auto parts store on Hatton Street. He is the fourth lightning strike victim in our area within a month."

Hearing what you want to hear: Sometimes it's okay - Just Coasting - al.com

Hearing what you want to hear: Sometimes it's okay - Just Coasting - al.com: "Stick close to me, and keep a life preserver handy. I'm pretty sure I'm about to jump in over my head.

Two recent shows at The Amphitheater at The Wharf in Orange Beach provide my springboard.

When John Mellencamp played in the middle of a show featuring Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan on July 31, he seemed to be deliberately emphasizing his accomplishments as a songwriter, not just a skilled entertainer with some hits to share."

Gulf Shores' 'Little Zoo That Could' unveils plans for new park - al.com

Gulf Shores' 'Little Zoo That Could' unveils plans for new park - al.com: "GULF SHORES — 'The Little Zoo That Could' should be in new, larger digs by early 2011, but the menagerie will retain the small-park charm that made it the star of a 2006 Animal Planet television series, Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo officials said Wednesday.

Zoo officials unveiled a billboard on Ala. 59 announcing the planned opening and introduced a pair of rare Bengal cubs that will make the zoo the only one in the country to boast a tiger in each of the species' four color variations. They also showed off a hurricane-resistant building intended to prevent any reruns of the events that thrust the nonprofit park into the limelight."

Let the fun begin - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

Let the fun begin - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Orange Beach kicked off the “25 Days of Celebration” leading up to the birthday celebration on August 29 by presenting the 25-year milestone proclamation to Margaret Long, the citizen representative to accept the proclamation. The presentation was the official start of the month-long celebration.

“I do want to say that we have been working on this celebration for two and a half months, and this is going to be a fantastic 25-day event,” Long said. “We have some outstanding employees that are working really, really hard in helping to put this event together.”

Kids Night Out was the first event of many, scheduled each day throughout the 25-day period."

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Local Zoo Hurricane Ready - Alabama Hurricane Gulf Shores Evacuation - WKRG.com

Local Zoo Hurricane Ready - Alabama Hurricane Gulf Shores Evacuation - WKRG.com: "In 2004, Hurricane Ivan wiped out the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, forcing the evacuation of every animal and bird in the facility. Zoo keepers and volunteers moved the animals out, one by one, and transported them to individual safe houses further inland. The entire hurricane evacuation was a nightmare. But things will be different now if a storm threatens Pleasure Island."

Soulful Rhythm and Blues Coming to Orange Beach

Soulful Rhythm and Blues Coming to Orange Beach: "August 12, 2009 - Orange Beach, AL (OBA) - Lisa Marshall is a Rhythm & Blues singer influenced by Motown, Soul, and Rock n’ Roll. She is vocally inspired by Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight, Mavis Staples and Janis Joplin. Her song writing is primarily influenced by R&B, rock, and gospel such as Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin to Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones and The Beatles.

Lisa will be performing at Mosaic Tapas Restaurant at The Wharf in Orange Beach on Saturday, August 22, 2009."

President of Optimist Club prepares for annual Mullet Fest - al.com

President of Optimist Club prepares for annual Mullet Fest - al.com: "Andy Wilkinson had very little experience with service organizations before joining the Optimist Club of Perdido Bay, but after his first meeting, he said he knew it was something special.

Three years after that first meeting, Wilkinson is the 24-year-old organization's president.

With more than 100 members and a variety of activities throughout the year, Wilkinson said, running the Optimist Club is like a full-time job."

Plans for firehouse near airport scuttled - al.com

Plans for firehouse near airport scuttled - al.com: "GULF SHORES — Mayor Robert Craft said Monday that the city is scrapping plans to build an estimated $4.5 million fire station and a multimillion dollar community storm shelter near Jack Edwards Airport.

Instead, Craft said, the city is negotiating with Baldwin EMC to buy its shuttered building a few blocks north of City Hall on West First Street in hopes of turning it into a new primary fire station.

Craft said city officials are waiting to hear back from the power cooperative but are hop ing to acquire the property for around $1.5 million. EMC spokeswoman Karen Moore said that 'we've had several interested parties, one of them being Gulf Shores,' but said the Summerdale-based cooperative has yet to field any offers."

Woman struck by car, dies during apparent dispute - al.com

Woman struck by car, dies during apparent dispute - al.com: "SPANISH FORT — A woman was struck and killed by a car Tuesday night at what authorities believe was the end of a domestic dispute. The name of the woman was not immediately released.

Baldwin County Sheriff's Office spokesman Maj. Anthony Lowery said the woman's 8-year-old son was in the car when she was killed.

The incident took place about 9 p.m. at Stagecoach Road and Stagecoach Commercial Circle, about 150 yards north of U.S. 31 on the east side of Spanish Fort."

Baldwin County school board withdraws sales tax request - al.com

Baldwin County school board withdraws sales tax request - al.com: "LOXLEY — The Baldwin County Board of Education on Tuesday pulled back its unpopular request for a 1-cent sales tax and instead moved toward deeper staffing cuts just as the school year is getting under way.

With nearly 70 people in the audience at the Central Office in Loxley, board members voted 5-2 to withdraw a July 23 resolution asking the County Commission to enact the tax increase.

Board members Norm Moore and Bob Callahan voted 'no,' with comments that drew applause."

Alabama lawmakers take part in discussion of coastal insurance - al.com

Alabama lawmakers take part in discussion of coastal insurance - al.com: "MONTGOMERY — Incentives to build stronger homes — not state subsidies — are the key to lowering insurance rates in high-risk, coastal areas, Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney told a panel of Alabama lawmakers Tuesday.

Chaney also emphasized the importance of enforcing building codes, limiting the number of people using the state's insurer of last resort and requiring policyholders statewide to help pay for catastrophic hurricane damage.

'This is not a simple issue,' Chaney said. 'It's an issue that you've got to address with great caution.'"

Baldwin County Marine Killed - Alabama Baldwin County Bay Minette Marine - WKRG.com

Baldwin County Marine Killed - Alabama Baldwin County Bay Minette Marine - WKRG.com: "Pam Ferrell says the pain she feels in unimaginable.

'Please pray for us, pray for me, pray for my family'

Pam's son, Lance Corporal Bruce Ferrell, Junior, was killed Monday fighting the war on terror in Afghanistan. The 21-year old Marine machine-gunner known as 'Little Bruce' or 'Bubba'...was on foot patrol with his unit when an I.E.D. went off. The blast killed him instantly."

Watching the Block - Twitter Neighborhood Watch Blogs - WKRG.com

Watching the Block - Twitter Neighborhood Watch Blogs - WKRG.com: "COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - Neighborhood watch groups around the country are starting to bring Twitter, text messages, blogs, and e-mail into their crime-fighting efforts.

The neighborhood groups are also using street patrols and cell phones to get the word out. And there are more of the groups than ever."

Baldwin Students Could See More Changes - Alabama Mobile Baldwin County Education - WKRG.com

Baldwin Students Could See More Changes - Alabama Mobile Baldwin County Education - WKRG.com: "Money saving changes are on the way for Baldwin County schools.
Tuesday night, school board members approved a financial crisis management plan and withdrew their request for a one cent sales tax hike."
WKRG.com News