WZTV FOX 17/Nashville

WZTV FOX 17/Nashville: "Federal prosecutors say 62-year-old David McFadden, of Orange Beach, Ala., promoted himself as a certified public accountant and financial planner but failed to tell clients that he hadn't been a licensed CPA since 1987."

Gulf State Park has room for everybody - al.com

Gulf State Park has room for everybody - al.com: "OPPONENTS of Gov. Bob Riley's Gulf State Park development, fresh off a legal victory, are still trying to kill the project altogether.

But if state legislators will pass a bill making the deal legal, the park can still have a first-class hotel and convention center that will be a great asset not just to south Baldwin County, but the entire state."

Documentary examines killer whales’ demise | Television | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle

Documentary examines killer whales’ demise | Television | Chron.com - Houston Chronicle: "Happy Earth Day? Not if you believe filmmaker Jean-Michel Cousteau, and it’s pretty hard not to believe him when he and other scientists make the case that unless we do something fast, killer whales will be extinct by the end of the century."

Judge orders insurance company to pay $1.51 million to Gulf Shores condo for Ivan damage - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Judge orders insurance company to pay $1.51 million to Gulf Shores condo for Ivan damage - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "MOBILE, Ala. -- A federal judge here today ordered an insurance company to pay $1.51 million to a Gulf Shores condominium association for hurricane damage, cutting the jury's award to the maximum amount allowed under the policy.

The jury on April 8 sided with the Caribbean I Owners' Association in its dispute with Great American Insurance Co. of New York. Jurors decided that the insurance company was liable for more than $1.8 million for damage caused by Hurricane Ivan."

Mullet Toss: Seeing is believing | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Mullet Toss: Seeing is believing | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "When I accepted this post at the News Journal in 2004 to cover Pleasure Island and Perdido Key, I began asking the locals about the big, annual events I should know about. It was just before Christmas and, after all, I was the new kid in town having moved from New York City. Natives, locals and tourists replied to my innocent inquiry with a grin, 'Oh, it's got to be the Mullet Toss at the Flora-Bama.'"

Trailing Baldwin County History

Trailing Baldwin County History: "Bay Minette, AL, April 23, 2009 – The Baldwin County Commission Department of Archives and History in conjunction with the Stockton Civic Club will host the Baldwin County Bicentennial Trailing Baldwin County History event on Saturday, April 25, 2009, 10am–4pm."

DAUPHIN ISLAND RACE: Officials expect competitive event this weekend - al.com

DAUPHIN ISLAND RACE: Officials expect competitive event this weekend - al.com: "The sagging economy may put a slight dent in the total number of entries for Saturday's Dauphin Island Race, but chairman Jim Green isn't losing much sleep over it.

'All is good. I think the economic times have hurt, not just this race, but all regattas nationwide. Still, we think we're going to have a pretty good number this weekend and we're looking forward to it,' he said. 'It's just an annual party around here, and I think everyone is excited about having a good time.'"

Earth Day celebration set Saturday - al.com

Earth Day celebration set Saturday - al.com: "Earth Day 2009 festivities for the Mobile Bay area will be celebrated Saturday in Fairhope, and organizers are planning a daylong event that includes entertainment and more than 60 exhibitors.

Robert Harris, who represents Southwest Windpower, will bring a wind generator — similar to the one he had installed at LuLu's at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores — to the event and said the festival is a way for people to learn about a great renewable energy source. Harris said the generators he sells can fill about half of an average family's power needs with a 12-mph breeze."

Foley honored for Guard support - al.com

Foley honored for Guard support - al.com: "FOLEY — Efforts by the city, Riviera Utilities and volunteers to armor National Guard vehicles before the area's unit went to Iraq have been recognized with the state's highest award for support of reserve troops.

At the Foley City Council meeting Monday, retired Col. Bill Kringel presented the Pro Patria award to municipal offi cials. Kringel said Foley is the state's 2009 winner of the award for public employers, which is presented by the Alabama Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. Kringel said the award also recognized Riviera for the city-owned utility service's role in supporting the National Guard."

pnj.com | National News | Pensacola News Journal

pnj.com | National News | Pensacola News Journal: "BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) -- Members of a Birmingham union for workers at Bruno's and Food World stores have started preparations to authorize a strike.

The union says they will strike if Bruno's and Food World stores are sold to a firm that won't commit to rehiring workers under a new contract."

National Seashore gets $131K for local projects | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

National Seashore gets $131K for local projects | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "Gulf Islands National Seashore's Florida parks will get $131,000 of the $750 million in federal economic stimulus money going to improve national parks in 48 states."

New town of Perdido Beach | Fox10tv.com

New town of Perdido Beach | Fox10tv.com: "PERDIDO - For more than a year, residents have been working on incorporation, and after a vote, it looks like that will be happening. Voters in Perdido Beach decided Tuesday night to incorporate into Baldwin County's newest city. The vote was 192 in favor of incorporation and 113 against it. The vote stops any possible effort to annex the area into Orange Beach."

Pensacola photographer on CNN for Earth Day | Fox10tv.com

Local photographer on CNN for Earth Day | Fox10tv.com: "PENSACOLA, Fla. - Coloring, cutting, and highlights, is how James Amerson pays the bills. But his hobby is what brings him attention. His pictures of local wildlife are being seen around the world. They were even featured on CNN for Earth Day."

University of Mobile Athletics - Go Rams!

University of Mobile Athletics - Go Rams!: "GULF SHORES, Ala—The 2009 Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Softball Tournament will take place at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex Friday, April 24 – Saturday, April 25."

Another High Energy Open Mic at Janna's

Another High Energy Open Mic at Janna's: "April 22, 2009 - Orange Beach, AL - Once again Janna's Market & Deli (and music venue) has proven it is the place to be on Tuesday evenings for great live music and wine tasting.

Commonly referred to as Nashville with a Tan, Orange Beach has long been a haven for talented musicians and entertainers."

Danger at the Beach: Thieves to Blame! - NBC 15 Online

Danger at the Beach: Thieves to Blame! - NBC 15 Online: "(ORANGE BEACH, Ala.) April 21 -- It's a system, Aquatics Coordinator Melvin Shepard says worked well for years. Beach warning flags let you know if there are any hidden dangers in the water, like ripcurrents or sharks."

Flora-bama Mullet Toss Celebrates its 25th Anniversary

Flora-bama Mullet Toss Celegrates its 25th Anniversary: "April 22, 2009 - Orange Beach, AL- The World Famous Flora-Bama Lounge will celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the Interstate Mullet Toss this weekend (April 24th-26th). Thousands of participants and spectators pack the Alabama/Florida Beaches each year for this event."

Firefighters host Smokin Butt 5K May 16 at the Wharf | Mullet Wrapper

Mullet Wrapper: "Walkers, runners, and those who just want to enjoy being outside will take part in the second annual Smokin Butt 5K for MDA set for Saturday, May 16 at The Wharf in beautiful Orange Beach. The 5K run/walk begins at 8 a.m. followed by the 1 mile fun run at 9 a.m. The course is mainly flat and fast around and through the heart of The Wharf complex."

Derby Party - May 2nd - Orange Beach | Mullet Wrapper

Mullet Wrapper: "The Mardi Gras Krewe Treasures of the Isle will sponsor the third annual Derby Party on Saturday, May 2 at 3 p.m. at the VIP Lounge on Canal Road in Orange Beach. The Derby Party features lots of food and fun before, during and after viewing the Kentucky Derby Race on big screen TVs. There will be a Happy Hour cash bar and a stick horse race with prizes."

Laptop Users Group (LUG) for Locals & Connecting Families

By popular demand, the Orange Beach Public Library is offering our Monday morning, 10:00 a.m. Laptop Users Group classes during the month of May. Come try out our classes in a smaller environment that offers plenty of time for individual questions. Our schedule is:

May 4, 2009 Maintenance and Security
May 11, 2009 Internet Searching
May 18, 2009 Word Processing

All classes meet in the Library meeting room and are open and free to the public.

Also coming in May, the Orange Beach Public Library is proud to be one of the 100+ libraries in the state offering deployed military members and their families at home an opportunity to meet via video webcam at the library through the Connecting Families Program. Beginning May 4th2009, Alabamians and military families will be able to schedule appointments with the library to come in and use the technology to see and talk to their deployed family members. Alabama is the only state in the nation with this program. Connecting Families is a partnership between the public library service and the Alabama Broadband Initiative that Governor Riley launched earlier this year. The program was started with grant funds from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

For more information about our computer classes or scheduling a Web conference appointment with your deployed family member, please contact the library at 981-2923.

BeachnRiver's Excellent Adventures---A Journal, Muse, Source Of Random Tips For Local Travelers

BeachnRiver's Excellent Adventures---A Journal, Muse, Source Of Random Tips For Local Travelers: Found Some Great Blogs --Hope I Love How BlogLovin' Works: "Beach'n'River's Excellent Adventures ---A Journal of Reflection Written to Inspire, Offer Tips and Motivation To Those Who Challenge Themselves Daily To Take The Road Not Taken"

What is Twitter | Fox10tv.com

What is Twitter | Fox10tv.com: "In the past, when you wanted someone to know what you were doing, you would call them or maybe send an email. But things have definitely changed. We now have Facebook and MySpace , but the new thing is Twitter ."

Group to sue Publix developer - al.com

Group to sue Publix developer - al.com: "Claiming that muddy runoff from a Publix Super Market construction site in Fairhope is rapidly choking the ecosystem, the Fly Creek Preservation Association announced Tuesday its intention to sue the project's developer, contractors, engineers and others in federal court in Mobile.

Jackie Wavrunek of the preservation group said Tuesday that silt fences and retention ponds have failed repeatedly, causing tons of mud to pile up more than a foot high in the neighboring creek bed and wetlands on Fairhope's north side."

Bizarre Cobia Fishing Trip - Alabama Florida Georgia Gulf Of Mexico - WKRG.com

Bizarre Cobia Fishing Trip - Alabama Florida Georgia Gulf Of Mexico - WKRG.com: "Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Georgia man falls overboard cobia fishing; boat winds up in Alabama

'It may go down as one of the most bizarre boating accidents in years, but a 41-year-old Georgia man is recovering in Bay Medical Center after falling overboard April 17 while cobia fishing off Panama City Beach.

The 24-foot Century boat, which was borrowed, ran out of gas and was found beached Sunday morning at Fort Morgan, Ala."

More Tackling Over Bait Shop - Ben Brooks Spencer Collier Harry Jemison Meeting - WKRG.com

More Tackling Over Bait Shop - Ben Brooks Spencer Collier Harry Jemison Meeting - WKRG.com: "A South Mobile County bait shop being forced out of its lease plans to take the battle to Government Plaza."

WKRG.com

Sheriff's Office gets ready to rumble | Fox10tv.com

Sheriff's Office gets ready to rumble | Fox10tv.com: "ESCAMBIA COUNTY, Fla. - You don't have to listen closely to hear the sound of an Escambia County Deputy heading your way. The Sheriff's Office is installing a new state of the art sound system called the 'Rumbler' that is literally turning heads."

Feds OK $51M for Ala. coastal project | Fox10tv.com

Feds OK $51M for Ala. coastal project | Fox10tv.com: "SPANISH FORT, Ala. (AP) - Federal officials have approved Alabama's plan for using $51 million in Coastal Impact Assistance Program money.

At a Spanish Fort news conference Tuesday, U.S. Minerals Management Service Acting Director Walter Cruickshank signed an approval letter for the state's spending plan that includes Mobile and Baldwin County projects."

Harvey Jackson: Looking for the Redneck Riviera — Part 2 | AnnistonStar.com

Harvey Jackson: Looking for the Redneck Riviera — Part 2 | AnnistonStar.com: "(The next morning, the trip resumed.)

For most folks, the Redneck Riviera is a particular place rather than a stretch of coastline. For some, it is Gulf Shores; for others, Orange Beach; and still others, Thomas Drive.

For me, it is Destin.

Or was."

Baldwin still top destination - al.com

Baldwin still top destination - al.com: "Powdered sugar beaches and gentle Gulf waves once again made Baldwin County the top travel destination in Alabama last year, according to a report released Tuesday by state officials.

But at the same time, there was a slight decrease in visitors and tourism-related spending in Baldwin, a county where about a third of the workforce is employed in the tourism industry."

Business roundup - al.com

Business roundup - al.com: "Tourism and travel-related spending in Alabama grew 3 percent last year, shaking off an economic recession that began in December 2007, according to figures released Tuesday.

Tourism officials said nearly 22.4 million people visited Alabama last year and spent nearly $9.6 billion in the state. Those visitors also paid $702 million in state and local lodging and sales taxes. It was the 10th straight year of rising travel-related expenditures."

Perdido Beach votes itself into township - al.com

Perdido Beach votes itself into township - al.com: "Perdido Beach will become Baldwin County's 14th municipality after an incorporation referendum passed 192-113, based on final but unofficial results Tuesday.

The turnout represented about 63 percent of the nearly 485 residents of the small bayfront community who had registered to vote by the April 10 deadline.

The effort to incorporate was driven largely by the belief that town government would be the best way to protect the nearly 108-year-old village from encroachment by nearby municipalities and beachfront development."

Steely Dan to play in Orange Beach in June - Press-Register Entertainment - al.com

Steely Dan to play in Orange Beach in June - Press-Register Entertainment - al.com: "Steely Dan will play The Wharf in Orange Beach this summer, the venue recently announced."

The band, featuring founders Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, will play The Amphitheater at The Wharf on June 19, a Friday. Tickets will go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday through Ticketmaster; prices range from $20 to $79.50, plus applicable fees.

Gulf Shores Student Back After Serious Injuries - Alabama Mobile Gulf Shores Orange Beach - WKRG.com

Gulf Shores Student Back After Serious Injuries - Alabama Mobile Gulf Shores Orange Beach - WKRG.com: "There was a special moment of triumph for a member of the Gulf Shores High School Girls Soccer Team Tuesday night.
17 year old senior Toni DeVaney made the opening kick of the game against Vigor."

WKRG.com

Trail extension selected for federal aid - al.com

Trail extension selected for federal aid - al.com: "GULF SHORES — City officials were told this month that their proposal to link the Orange Beach Backcountry Trail to their own bike path and sidewalk system has been chosen to receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal aid.

The two-mile path through Gulf State Park has been assured of at least 80 percent funding through a federal transportation funding program, according to an April 10 letter from Gov. Bob Riley to city officials. But there's a chance the government might pick up most of the tab via the American Recovery and Reinvest ment Act, the governor wrote.

The economic stimulus program would pay the $555,812 cost of constructing the 10-foot-wide path — with the city paying the $38,000 design fees — but that money is 'first-come, first-served,' Diane Brown, Gulf Shores' special projects manager, told the City Council on Monday."

Alabama tourism and travel rose 3 percent in 2008, state reports - Business News from The Birmingham News - al.com

Alabama tourism and travel rose 3 percent in 2008, state reports - Business News from The Birmingham News - al.com: "Tourism and travel-related spending in Alabama grew 3 percent last year, shaking off a state and national recession that began in December 2007, state figures released today by Alabama Gov. Bob Riley show."

Google to add Full-Lenght Movies & TV shows to YouTube

Condo climb proves fatal - al.com

Condo climb proves fatal - al.com: "GULF SHORES — A 35-year-old Georgia man died Sunday in a Pensacola hospital after falling from the third story of an East Beach condo building he was scaling early that morning, authorities said.

Paul Stanley Grimes III and friends had returned from Saturday night's Widespread Panic concert in Orange Beach to the third-floor Regatta Condominiums unit they were staying at and discovered they were locked out, said Cpl. Justin Clopton of the Gulf Shores Police Department.

Grimes decided to try to climb up the building's balconies to the group's condo and open it that way, Clopton said Monday."

Repeat flood claims keep rising - al.com

Repeat flood claims keep rising /By Sean Reilly - al.com: "WASHINGTON — Federal flood insurance managers are losing the battle to reduce the number of structures that repeatedly take on water and drive up claims, with Alabama and Mississippi among the leading culprits, a new report suggests.

From 1999 to 2007, the number of so-called 'repetitive loss' properties soared by almost two-thirds to 70,226, according to the overview by the inspector general's office of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The inspector general is a kind of internal watchdog; Homeland Security encompasses the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which runs the flood insurance program."

Drowned girl's father returned to face manslaughter charges - al.com

Drowned girl's father returned to face manslaughter charges - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — A former Elberta man has been returned to Baldwin County to face manslaughter charges in the 2003 drowning death of his daughter, local authorities said.

Jason Woerner, 35, was booked into the Baldwin County Corrections Center on Sunday after being extradited from North Carolina. He was being held Monday on no bond, a jail spokeswoman said.

Woerner was arrested earlier this month by Charlotte, N.C., police and U.S. marshals at his mother's home in Charlotte, according to authorities."

NWS: 14 Tornadoes Struck Alabama - Alabama Montgomery Weather Storm - WKRG.com

NWS: 14 Tornadoes Struck Alabama - Alabama Montgomery Weather Storm - WKRG.com: "BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) - The National Weather Service confirms at least 14 tornadoes struck across Alabama on Sunday, killing two people in Morgan and Marshall counties.
The twisters also killed 90,000 chickens when poultry houses on two Blount County farms were destroyed."

Man Falls To Death From Beach Condo - Alabama Gulf Shores Georgia Columbus - WKRG.com

Man Falls To Death From Beach Condo - Alabama Gulf Shores Georgia Columbus - WKRG.com: "A 35-year-old Georgia man has died after falling while trying to climb to a third-floor Gulf Shores condo unit he had been locked out of. Authorities said Monday that Paul Stanley Grimes died Sunday in a Pensacola hospital."

WKRG.com

Thieves Leave Paper Cup Trail - Foley Foley Police Pills Lortab - WKRG.com

Thieves Leave Paper Cup Trail - Foley Foley Police Pills Lortab - WKRG.com: "Investigators say Joshua and Nicholas Gollnick and their friend David Logan could be the dumbest criminals they've ever busted. Detectives say the trio broke into an assisted living center and stole a medicine cart filled with prescription painkillers!"

WKRG.com

Gulf Breeze High School Guns

WEAR ABC 3: "GULF BREEZE, FL - A school resource officer had to take some quick action against a parent who walked onto the campus of Gulf Breeze High School armed with two guns and a knife this morning.

Gulf Breeze Police say Officer Kerstan Tatro was supposed to have a meeting with 61-year-old Judy Hall about an incident involving her son last week."

London bar offers alcoholic air

London bar offers alcoholic air: "LONDON - Taking a deep breath gets even more relaxing than usual at a temporary London bar where patrons can inhale a gin and tonic mist, Metro UK reports .

The interior of the bar is designed to replicate the inside of a giant gin and tonic, with oversized limes and straws and the sound of liquid being poured over ice. And yes, the mist will get you drunk."

Shelby Announces Nearly $1.2 Million for Alabama Emergency Food and Shelter Program

United States Senator Richard Shelby : Press Room: "U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency will award $1,191,635 to the state of Alabama to bring relief to communities affected by the country’s current economic situation. The funding is provided through the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP).

“For more than 26 years, the EFSP has helped meet the basic needs of impoverished individuals across our nation,” said Shelby. “In light of our current economic situation, more families are struggling to make ends meet. I am hopeful that this EFSP funding will create conditions where people can help themselves while our economy recovers.”

EFSP funds will be distributed to support social service agencies in Alabama. The grant funds are used to supplement food, shelter, rent, mortgage, and utility assistance programs for people with non-disaster related emergencies."

Shelby Announces $19.8 Million for Mobile Bridge

United States Senator Richard Shelby : Press Room: "U.S. Senator Richard Shelby (R-Ala.) today announced that the U.S. Coast Guard will award $19,800,000 to the state of Alabama for the 14 Mile CSX Railroad Bridge on the Mobile River. This funding will allow the Coast Guard to complete this project.

“Replacement of the 14 Mile CSX Railroad Bridge will ensure safe marine navigation on the Mobile River, which is vital to maintaining the efficiency and reliability of waterway commerce through the Port of Mobile and along the Black Warrior Tombigbee waterway system,” said Shelby. “The replacement of the bridge will save shippers millions of dollars annually in lost time and accidents, and will greatly assist in the shipment of cargo moving through the Alabama State Docks.”"

Fatal condo fall: Police say Georgia man was trying to climb into third-floor unit he was locked out of - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Fatal condo fall: Police say Georgia man was trying to climb into third-floor unit he was locked out of - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "A 35-year-old Georgia man died Sunday in a Pensacola hospital after falling from the third story of a Gulf Shores condo building he was scaling early that morning, authorities said."

Mother Shows Up At School With Two Guns - Florida Gulf Breeze Gun Mother - WKRG.com

Mother Shows Up At School With Two Guns - Florida Gulf Breeze Gun Mother - WKRG.com: "Police have arrested the mother of two Gulf Breeze High School students for showing up at her kids' school with guns.

According to police, the woman walked into the school this morning and and made a complaint. She then went back out to her car, followed by a school resource officer."

Widespread Panic Weekend in Orange Beach, AL

Widespread Panic Weekend in Orange Beach, AL: "April 20, 2009 - In their third year of consecutive appearances at The Wharf's Amphitheater in Orange Beach, Widespread Panic continues to pack the house. It is our understanding that WP has another two years on their contract to appear at The Wharf's Amphitheater."

Monday's Top AP Stories

Baldwin suspicious of federal stimulus - al.com

Baldwin suspicious of federal stimulus - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — Baldwin County Commission Chairman Ed Bishop, a conservative Republican, was at Wednesday's anti-big government, anti-high tax 'Tea Party' protest at the Fairhope Municipal Pier.

That night he went to a meeting with state officials on how counties can access some of nearly $800 billion in economic stimulus money approved by President Obama and the Democrat-controlled Congress.

Bishop admitted the day left him conflicted."

Navy: NOLF Wolf removed from list of expansion sites - Baldwin County NOW

Navy: NOLF Wolf removed from list of expansion sites - Baldwin County NOW: "GULF SHORES, Ala. — The Navy has announced the Navy Outlying Field Wolf has been removed from the list of possible expansion sites."

The Naval Air Station Whiting Field and Naval Facilities Engineering Command have pulled NOLF Wolf from the list due to airspace conflicts with Jack Edwards Airport and NAS Pensacola, according to a letter sent to Gov. Bob Riley from the Department of the Navy. A press release concerning the decision also cited conflicts with Pensacola Regional Airport.

Seven fires said linked - al.com

Seven fires said linked - al.com: "For three decades, fires have followed Tommy Lunceford Jr.

To federal prosecutors in Mobile, that's more than a coincidence.

'These arsons/fires all occurred at residences the defendant lived at or at businesses the defendant owned, ran or had an interest in,' Assistant U.S. Attorney George May wrote as part of a motion seeking permission to introduce the past fires at Lunceford's upcoming arson trial."

Report: Water related incidents above average - Baldwin County NOW

Report: Water related incidents above average - Baldwin County NOW: "On April 14, Gulf Shores lifeguards reported 26 drowning calls in one month

GULF SHORES, Ala. — While only two months of vacationers have visited the Gulf Coast, a high number of water-related incidents have already been reported.

On April 14, Gulf Shores lifeguards had recorded 26 drowning calls in one month, and senior lifeguard Scott Smothers said that’s above average.

He also said since the season opened on March 13 there have been three days with yellow flags flying, the rest being red flag days.

“It’s because of the storms we’ve had,” Smothers said of the red flags. “Any time you get a low pressure system you’re going to have rip currents and high surf.”"

Sunday: Today's Top New from AP

Environment to be topic of Clean Coast Expo - al.com

Environment to be topic of Clean Coast Expo - al.com: "The Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce will present the first Clean Coast Expo from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday at the Erie Meyer Civic Center in Gulf Shores. The free expo is open to the public.

The Clean Island Partnership is a collaborative effort to utilize resources for recycling and other environmentally friendly practices islandwide. The partnership includes the Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce, the cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Alabama Gulf State Park."

FOLEY - al.com

FOLEY - al.com: "Foley's annual Music and a Movie series that began in April in the past will make its 2009 debut next month, but will be part of a larger weekly city event when the program kicks off May 22, organizers said.

This year, the movie event moves from Thursdays to Fridays and will be tied to the new Chicago Street Farmers Market. Since organizers announced the market earlier this year, support has been growing, said Kathy Danielson, director of the Foley Convention and Visitors Bureau. She said the combined markets, movie and musical performances should be a major attraction for the area this summer.

'It's going great,' she said. 'We haven't heard one negative thing about this. The farmers are excited. The public is excited.'"

Wharf War: Developer, contractor battle for millions - al.com

Wharf War: Developer, contractor battle for millions - al.com: "Birmingham-based AIG Baker and the general contractor it hired to build the Levin's Bend tower at The Wharf in Orange Beach have become embroiled in a multimillion-dollar battle in which the developer claims that blown deadlines and shoddy work by Ray Bell Construction Co. Inc. 'jeopardized the success and viability' of the project.

AIG Baker originally sued Tennessee-based Ray Bell Construction in Shelby County Circuit Court in February, but the case was moved this month to Birmingham's federal court.

The developer seeks $49 million in compensatory damages — which it ties to lost condominium sales and the cost of defending itself against buyers who fought their way out of purchase contracts — as well as $147 million in punitive damages."

PERDIDO BEACH INCORPORATION WHAT: Vote on whether to make Perdido Beach 14th municipality in Baldwin County WHEN: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday WHERE: Perdido Beach Volunteer Fire Department on Escambia Avenue INFO: Community information: www.perdidobeachcommunity.com. Incorporation information: www.Probate.co.baldwin.al.us (click on "elections" and then "incorporation"). - al.com

PERDIDO BEACH INCORPORATION WHAT: Vote on whether to make Perdido Beach 14th municipality in Baldwin County WHEN: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday WHERE: Perdido Beach Volunteer Fire Department on Escambia Avenue INFO: Community information: www.perdidobeachcommunity.com. Incorporation information: www.Probate.co.baldwin.al.us (click on "elections" and then "incorporation"). - al.com: "A year ago the petition effort for setting an incorporation referendum in the community of Perdido Beach was gaining momentum and ultimately succeeded.

But since then the local and national economic background has shifted, putting the effort on somewhat shakier ground, organizers said.

Concern about encroachment by development and other municipalities — highlighted by Orange Beach's stated plans to build a bridge across Wolf Bay to the secluded 108-year-old waterfront community — led to solid support for a referendum.

Voters will decide Tuesday whether to create Baldwin County's 14th municipality. Polls will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Perdido Beach Volunteer Fire Department on Escambia Avenue."

Car smashes into Foley Krystal - al.com

Car smashes into Foley Krystal - al.com: "A car crashed into the wall of Krystal in Foley early Saturday, leaving the driver hospitalized and major damage to the restaurant, police said.

Sgt. Otis Miller of the Foley Police Department said the 23-year-old woman driving the 2006 Pontiac was taken to South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, but her injuries were not considered life-threatening."

Mobile officials ramp up talk of cross-bay ferry service - al.com

Mobile officials ramp up talk of cross-bay ferry service - al.com: "Last summer, Gulf Shores officials contemplated buying land along the Intercoastal Canal to house a terminal for a ferry that would take people to and from downtown Mobile.

But they eventually decided against it, Gulf Shores City Councilwoman Carolyn Doughty said, because enthusiasm for the project seemed to have fizzled in Mobile.

'We've kind of always been there saying, 'Come here, come here, come here,' but we don't ever hear from them,' said Doughty, who is serving as Gulf Shores' mayor while Robert Craft recovers from brain surgery. 'We're ready. We want to be part of it.'"

Man accused in murder to be transported |� The Dickinson Press �| Dickinson, North Dakota

Man accused in murder to be transported |� The Dickinson Press �| Dickinson, North Dakota: "Shane Patrick Miller, 39, was arrested April 11 in Gulf Shores, Ala., in connection with the shooting of Neal Matejovsky of Dickinson."

Steely Dan Announces Concert at The Wharf

Steely Dan Announces Concert at The Wharf: "Orange Beach, AL – Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Walter Becker and Donald Fagen have announced that STEELY DAN will bring their 2009 U.S. Tour to The Amphitheater at The Wharf in Orange Beach, AL on Friday, June 19th 2009. Tickets will go on sale beginning April 25 at 10 a.m."

Open Mic Night at Janna's Market - Who Knew...

Open Mic Night at Janna's Market - Who Knew...: "April 17, 2009- Orange Beach, AL - When the mic opens up at Janna's Market & Deli in Orange Beach, you never know who might make an appearance. This past Tuesday was no exception. Award winning singer/songwriter Rhonda Hart, who wrote the songs Did I Shave My Legs For This & Waiting For The Phone To Ring, was in the audience and after a little coaxing from the crowd got up and performed several of her original songs."

Judge Roy Moore Speaks at Orange Beach Tea Party

Judge Roy Moore Speaks at Orange Beach Tea Party: "April 15, 2009 - Orange Beach, AL - When a spur of the moment Tea Party popped up at Waterfront Park in Orange Beach, organizer Butch Pardue didn't expect to have such a high-profile speaker."

AL |Supreme Court stays bingo ruling, state to keep machines, money

WSFA 12 News Montgomery, AL |Supreme Court stays bingo ruling, state to keep machines, money: "MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - Governor Bob Riley's Task Force on Illegal Gambling has won a key decision in the White Hall bingo raid case.

The Alabama Supreme Court Friday issued an order allowing the state to retain control over the 101 gaming machines and half-million dollars in cash seized in the early morning March 19th raid on the White Hall Gaming Center."

Fish labeling proposal passes state House - al.com

Fish labeling proposal passes state House - al.com: "MONTGOMERY — The Alabama House of Representatives passed a bill Thursday that would require restaurants to let patrons know whether their fish comes from the U.S.

Irvington Republican Spencer Collier, who sponsored the measure, said it would be a boon to south Alabama fishing."

FAIRHOPE TEA PARTY - al.com

FAIRHOPE TEA PARTY - al.com: "FAIRHOPE — More than 500 people attended Wednesday's Tax Day Tea Party at the municipal park by the city's pier, far more than organizers had expected.

'It started becoming clear yesterday that we should have arranged to have buses shuttling people here from the grocery stores out on Greeno Road, but by then it was too late,' said Gene Labrato, one of the Fairhope event's organizers."

Bethel demands payment in suit - al.com

Bethel demands payment in suit - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — A Loxley woman being sued by the Baldwin County Board of Education left what some consider to be harassing phone messages for the board's attorney, including one that mentions negotiating a $250,000 settlement between the parties.

Glynis Bethel and her husband, Orlando Bethel, are representing themselves in a civil case in Baldwin County Circuit Court. The school board has asked a judge to intervene and ban the pair of street-preaching litigants from suing the school board or its employees."

Florida Senate OKs $65.6 billion budget, cigarette tax | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Florida Senate OKs $65.6 billion budget, cigarette tax | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "TALLAHASSEE — A unanimous Florida Senate on Thursday passed a $65.6 billion budget proposal that includes a $1-a-pack increase in Florida's cigarette tax and other revenue-generating provisions that aren't in the House's spending plan."

News Journal Corp. hires bankruptcy lawyer - WEAR ABC 3

WEAR ABC 3 :: Florida News: "A lawyer representing The News-Journal Corp. says the newspaper company might consider bankruptcy to keep the publication in operation."

Paddling for power - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

Paddling for power - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "GULF SHORES, Ala. — As John Bays launched his energy saving contraption into the Intracoastal Waterway, Lulu’s wind turbine spun rapidly in the background."

It seems everyone on Pleasure Island is following the trend to go “green”. But John Bays may be leading the pack with his idea to use the tide to power his house.

“I noticed, from fishing, when the current is really strong it’s hard to hold your boat,” John Bays said. “The current creates a lot of pressure and a lot of power.”

Widespread Panic leads jam-band invasion on the Island | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Widespread Panic leads jam-band invasion on the Island | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "The musical phenomenon began in 1986, and once it got going, it never stopped. Today, more than 20 years after forming, Widespread Panic has earned a loyal following the nation over."

South Baldwin mayors talk convention center - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

South Baldwin mayors talk convention center - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "FOLEY, Ala. — Foley Mayor John Koniar was one of three area mayors to talk with state officials in Montgomery recently concerning the Gulf State Park convention center issue.

Koniar and mayors Tony Kennon of Orange Beach and Robert Craft of Gulf Shores were in Montgomery last week talking to state officials about getting a new convention center in place, an issue that has been bogged down in legal proceedings since Gulf State Park Resort and Convention Center were dealt knockout blows by hurricanes Ivan and Katrina in 2004-2005.

According to Koniar, the three area mayors traveled to Montgomery to talk about the issue since a new hotel and convention center would be good for the area and to dispel the rumor that the three cities don’t work well together."

Investigators: Son stabs father while trying to steal TV - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Investigators: Son stabs father while trying to steal TV - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "A 22-year-old Foley man stabbed his father Tuesday while trying to steal his TV and sell it for drug money, Baldwin County authorities said."

Spending Money: AutoWeek Magazine

Spending Money: AutoWeek Magazine: "I doubt that the waitresses at Papa Rocco’s cared that the tips we left on the table at their Gulf Shores, Ala., oyster and pizza bar came from money we earned in Michigan. Ditto for the proceeds from our visit to the world-famous Flora-Bama roadhouse on the Florida-Alabama state line. And I’m sure that the $500 or so our traveling party spent on hotels, dinner and gas during an overnight stop in Birmingham, Ala., won’t make or break anyone."

There's music in the swamp | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

There's music in the swamp | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "If you think Widespread Panic at The Wharf is the big entertainment draw of the weekend, you'd be right, but that musical phenomenon is only half of the music happenings across Pleasure Island this weekend. The other much-anticipated musical event to run along with Widespread Panic is Swamp Meat 3, April 17, 18 and 19 at three vintage Pleasure Island venues."

Governor's state park plan should be scrapped | montgomeryadvertiser.com | Montgomery Advertiser

Governor's state park plan should be scrapped | montgomeryadvertiser.com | Montgomery Advertiser: "Thanks, Charles Grimsley, for your Alabama Voices column updating us on Gov. Riley's scheme to rob the average Alabamian of the right to have affordable lodging at Gulf State Park. The Supreme Court of Alabama declared Gov. Riley's plan illegal."

Beach Express will be public forum topic - al.com

Beach Express will be public forum topic - al.com: "A public forum regarding the Beach Express will be held April 28 at 6 p.m. or immediately following the 5 p.m. Orange Beach City Council committee of the whole meeting. The forum will be held at the Orange Beach Community Center and is sponsored by the Orange Beach Citizen's Association.

Neil Belitsky, CEO of American Roads, will be the special guest. The forum will present an opportunity to find out more from the operators of the Beach Express, including toll rates, future expansion, new discount programs and more. A recap of the first quarter revenues of the city of Orange Beach will also be presented."

Cobia anglers going for big money at Outcast tournament | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Cobia anglers going for big money at Outcast tournament | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "The 12th Annual Outcast Cobia Invitational kickoffs Thursday and lasts until Saturday, giving anglers a full three days of fishing."

Entry fee for this event is $1,250 per boat with a variety of optional cash awards that can also be entered. Top prize for the event will be $15,000, with second paying $8,500 and third winning $5,500.

These prizes do not include what can be won by entering the optional cash awards. Last year there was more than $400,000 awarded with one boat taking home nearly $100,000.

Searchers Looking For Missing Man - Alabama Silverhill Missing Man Searchers - WKRG.com

Searchers Looking For Missing Man - Alabama Silverhill Missing Man Searchers - WKRG.com: "Dozens of searchers from all over the Gulf Coast combed Silverhill Tuesday looking for a missing man. They're looking for 54-year-old Russ Murfin."

WKRG.com

Police ask spring breakers to be careful | Fox10tv.com

Police ask spring breakers to be careful | Fox10tv.com: "Spring breakers are out in full force this week, but they're not the only ones. 'Traffic is extremely heavy and its been so since school let out this past weekend,' said one officer."

GULF SHORES - al.com

GULF SHORES - al.com: "GULF SHORES — Though the annual Fourth of July fireworks show had been nixed from the city's 2009 spending plan, the City Council on Monday voted unanimously to award contracts to two companies to put on the event.

Last month the council delayed a vote to fund the $45,000 event, which draws thousands to the city's public beaches each summer.

At the time council members said they wanted to wait a few weeks in hopes that the latest tax return data would show an uptick in revenue, and thus a way to pay for the display."

Harvey H. Jackson: Looking for the Redneck Riviera | AnnistonStar.com

Harvey H. Jackson: Looking for the Redneck Riviera | AnnistonStar.com: "Between 1941 and the late 1970s the Alabama coast and the Florida Panhandle was transformed from that string of little fishing villages into the 'Redneck Riviera' — a vacation destination of Southern families and the playground for folks who wanted something a little more exciting than 'Goofy Golf.'

Then, thanks to hurricanes and hustlers, the 'Redneck Riviera' was transformed into a land of the 'Condo culture,' fern bars, bourgeois bohemians, coffee shops, and snowbirds — a land where respectability was the rule and redneckery was discouraged, where the developer was king and the dissenter was marginalized."

North Dakota slaying suspect arrested at Gulf Shores campground - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

North Dakota slaying suspect arrested at Gulf Shores campground - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "GULF SHORES, Ala. -- A Texas man wanted in connection with a North Dakota slaying is awaiting extradition to that state after being discovered by police at a campground along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Shane Patrick Miller, 39, is a suspect in the shooting death of 49-year-old Neal Matejovsky, a Dickinson, N.D., man, local police and North Dakota authorities said."

Allison Puccetti Adams at OBAC

"Into the Light" Exhibit April 30 - June 10 Orange Beach Art Center
Artist's Reception Friday May 1st 5:30-7:30pm
Palette Knife Demonstration for all ages - Sat 10:30am at OBAC

The Friends of the Arts, Inc. and Orange Beach Art Center's Visiting Artist Series continues with Birmingham artist Allison Puccetti Adams April 30-June 10. In this exhibit, Allison explores the fluidity of light and movement of a moment particularly evident where sand and water meet. She employs the palette knife, brushes and sometimes her hands to translate light's ephemeral nature.

Allison is a University of Alabama graduate in interior design and studied at Parson's School of Design, New York and UNO Innsbruck, Austria. Her Baldwin County roots are deep. She taught art for grades K-5 at St. Benedict School in Elberta; served on the Board of Directors of CARE House, Inc. and Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo; is a former Realtor member of Baldwin Co. Realtor's Association and past President of Baldwin Co. TREASURE Forrest Association. She served on the Montgomery Museum of Art Masters Board and is currently a member of Mountain Brook Junior Women 100, the Mountain Brook Art Association and paints weekly with the Highland Artists.

In her spare time, Allison authored Birmingham Sketchbook which contains regional artists' work of the city of Birmingham and includes her train station rendering. She is the author/ illustrator of Southern XYZ's, Alabama Edition and A Gathering of Angels. She has toured with the Tallulah Tour of Southern Women Writers based in Pensacola, FL. To top it off she is a Mom and part owner of Crestline Seafood Company.

Her artwork is shown at Lucca (The Wharf), Merrill Miller Interiors, Orange Beach; Willis Gray Gallery, Decatur; The Commissary, Birmingham; Wildflower Wax, Homewood; Grass Roots, Greystone.

Please join the Friends of the Arts, Inc. in welcoming the energetic and inspiring Allison Puccetti Adams Friday May 1st 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Orange Beach Art Center (26389 Canal Road, next to the Waterfront Park).

Fishing Orange Beach - Cold-Front Catch | Gulf of Mexico Fishing Reports

Fishing Orange Beach - Cold-Front Catch | Gulf of Mexico Fishing Reports: "We don’t like it when it gets cold, but the fish don’t seem to mind most times. As a matter of fact, they seem to notice the change in barometric pressure and go on a feeding frenzy."

Deep Sea Fishing Aboard The High Cotton: Offshore Bottom Fishing Video Aboard the High Cotton

Deep Sea Fishing Aboard The High Cotton: Offshore Bottom Fishing Video Aboard the High Cotton: "We went bottom fishing 50 miles offshore and caught tons of amberjack, grouper, snapper, and triggerfish. Just a fun video and a great day of family fishing in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, Alabama!"

Mobile, Baldwin high schools move away from 'block' scheduling - al.com

Mobile, Baldwin high schools move away from 'block' scheduling - al.com: "The public high schools in Mobile and Baldwin counties are moving away from block scheduling, which has been in place for about a dozen years now."

Vote today! - al.com

Vote today! - al.com: "The state Senate District 22 GOP primary will be held today in 15 precincts of Baldwin as well as in seven other southwest Alabama counties.

Republicans Greg Albritton of Range, Judy Belk of Citronelle and Danny Joyner of Brewton are on today's ballot, with the winner to face Democrat Marc Keahey of Grove Hill in special election June 2 (if a GOP runoff is not needed) or July 21 (if a runoff is needed.)"

Three People Drown At Florida Panhandle Beaches - Florida Beach Panama City Drown - WKRG.com

Three People Drown At Florida Panhandle Beaches - Florida Beach Panama City Drown - WKRG.com: "DESTIN, Fla. (AP) - Authorities say two swimmers and a kayaker drowned off Panhandle beaches over the Easter weekend. The Destin Fire Control District says 39-year-old Joseph Jones from Riverdale, Ga., died Friday after going into the water off Destin to help others caught in a rip current."

Making Spring Break Safe - Alabama Police Foley Arrest - WKRG.com

Making Spring Break Safe - Alabama Police Foley Arrest - WKRG.com: "Thousands of high school kids, college students and families are heading to Baldwin County's beaches this week. The Foley Police Department wants make sure they have a fun and safe vacation."

WKRG.com

Navy SEALs have a tough job | Fox10tv.com

Navy SEALs have a tough job | Fox10tv.com: "MOBILE, Ala. - The name says it all. SEAL, or Sea, Air and Land. That's where Navy SEALs go to work. 'Any type of mission anywhere in the world, they're called to get a handle on it,' said Navy Recruiter, Daniel Harper. 'They take care of it.'"

Possible smoking ban for Spanish Fort | Fox10tv.com

Possible smoking ban for Spanish Fort | Fox10tv.com: "SPANISH FORT, Ala. - The Spanish Fort city council is considering passing a measure that would make it illegal to smoke in any public facility including restaurants.

If the order is passed, city leaders say smokers must be at least 30-feet away from the entrance in order to light up.

Cheryl Barnes owns a restaurant and says she understands what city leaders are trying to do.
That's why she doesn't allow smoking inside, but Barnes offers customers a table on the patio if they want to smoke.

She believes passing a no smoking law would take her rights away to offer this accomadation. 'I Don't think it's any of the government's business. You pay the rent and you are doing something legal inside your business, you should be able to decide,' said Barnes."

Fairhope TEA Party in the works | Fox10tv.com

Fairhope TEA Party in the works | Fox10tv.com: "FAIRHOPE, Ala. - Rallies will be held all over the country come tax day, April 15th. 'Our hands are tied, we're frustrated, we don't know what to do, that's the main reasons we're here,' said a protestor at a prelude rally in Iowa."

Texas man charged with murder | The Dickinson Press �| Dickinson, North Dakota

Texas man charged with murder | The Dickinson Press | Dickinson, North Dakota: "Authorities have charged a Texas man with murder and another man is in custody in connection with the shooting death of a Dickinson man.

Officers found the body of Neal Matejovsky, 49, Friday in Dunn County.

Alabama authorities arrested 49-year-old Shane Patrick Miller early Saturday in Gulf Shores, Ala., and charged him with murder, said Dunn County State’s Attorney Ross Sundeen."

WSFA 12 News Montgomery, AL |Opelika BFGoodrich plant to close

WSFA 12 News Montgomery, AL |Opelika BFGoodrich plant to close: "OPELIKA, AL (WSFA) - The BFGoodrich plant in Opelika will shut down in response to an 'unprecedented drop in market demand,' according to company officials. The plant's owner, Michelin North America, made the announcement Monday that it would shutter its Lee County location and relocate operations to other plants in Alabama and Indiana. The final day of operations is expected no later than October 31, 2009."

Wolf Field eliminated from Navy's list of airfields to expand - al.com

Wolf Field eliminated from Navy's list of airfields to expand - al.com: "One U.S. Navy runway in Baldwin County, Wolf Field in Lillian, has been eliminated from consideration for expansion to meet the needs of the Navy's new training aircraft, leaving three other fields in the running."

Ala. gas prices jumped 14 cents | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Ala. gas prices jumped 14 cents | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Gasoline prices across Alabama jumped 14 cents in the past four weeks, but remain well below last year’s prices."

Guides sought for Pensacola Lighthouse | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Guides sought for Pensacola Lighthouse | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "The Pensacola Lighthouse will celebrate its 150th anniversary from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 25 during Florida Lighthouse Day.

Regular tours begin the first Saturday of May and run from noon to 4 p.m. Admission for tours is $5 for adults and $3 for senior citizens and children 7 to 11. Children younger than 7 will not be allowed to climb the tower, but the keeper's quarters with displays is open for everyone.

For more information, contact members of the Pensacola Lighthouse Association at 944-0179 or 916-7864."