OB Library & Senior Center hosts Award Winning Classical Guitarist Peter Fletcher

The Orange Beach Public Library and Orange Beach Senior Center are pleased to be hosting a performance featuring Award Winning Classical Guitarist Peter Fletcher. Mr. Fletcher will perform on Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. at the Orange Beach Senior Center located at 26251 Canal Road in Orange Beach. This concert will be a ticketed event with only 110 tickets available. Tickets are on sale at the Orange Beach Public Library. The cost of the tickets is $5.00 per person.

This concert will feature selections from Fletcher’s 2008 CD release on Tower Hill Records, Music of the Baroque. Other repertoire will include the E minor Lute Suite of J. S. Bach; Fletcher’s transcriptions of Erik Satie and Edvard Grieg; Usher-Waltz, an unusual and intense piece by Russian guitarist and composer Nikita Koshkin; Andrew York’s Sunburst and music of Weiss and Reusner. The concert will culminate with Koyunbaba, by composer/guitarist Carlo Domeniconi. This is one of the most unique and exciting works in the classical guitar repertoire.

For more information on Peter Fletcher visit his website at www.peterfletcher.com.

For more concert information contact the library at 251-981-2923, visit the website at www.orangebeachlibrary.org or email mbaroco@cityoforangebeach.com.

GCSAA National Championship and Golf Classic set for Gulf Shores, Ala., Feb. 1-3

GCSAA National Championship and Golf Classic set for Gulf Shores, Ala., Feb. 1-3: "The 59th Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) National Championship and Golf Classic presented in partnership with The Toro Co., comes to Gulf Shores, Ala., Feb. 1-3.

Few golf competitions can match the number of participants attracted by this golf event for GCSAA members. Nearly 400 GCSAA members will compete for top honors at four world-class Gulf Shores golf courses, while staying at the Perdido Beach Resort."

Apple in 2012

Apple in 2012: "Welcome to the iFuture
Apple is firing on most cylinders in 2012. CEO Tim Cook -- yes, CEO Tim Cook -- is doing a fine job growing the company. He certainly doesn't pack the same style and charisma as Steve Jobs, but his operational prowess is delivering the financial performance that investors expect out of a maturing growth stock.

Let's go over how Apple's product lines are doing, with a little color on the changes and acquisitions that happened along the way."

Gulf Shores town hall meetings begin Thursday

The first Gulf Shores town hall meeting of the year will be held at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the Gulf Shores Adult Activity Center. The purpose is to give citizens and government a forum in which to interact.

Steve Garman, the newly hired Gulf Shores city administrator, will share his background and describe the duties of the city administrator. A representative of the city will discuss the 2009 budget and the effect it will have on projects and personnel.

Following a question-and- answer period, representatives will be available for residents to express concerns about their areas of the city. All Gulf Shores residents are asked to attend to help increase dialogue between elected officials and their constituents.

For more information, call Tom Moore at 251-948-7864.

MacNN | Woz talks about Jobs' absence, Cook's parents reflect

MacNN | Woz talks about Jobs' absence, Cook's parents reflect: "Steve Wozniak, in an interview with NBC, voiced his opinion regarding Apple's immediate future in the absence of Steve Jobs, while an Alabama television news network, WKRG, had a chance to talk with the parents of the company's interim leader, Tim Cook, about their son's ascension in the business world. Wozniak defended the CEO's withholding of detailed personal information. 'We should just trust him, what he says is what we ought to accept,' he said, noting that people would want more and more information regardless of any explanation."

Baldwin County receives more than $500,000 in grant money

Baldwin County receives more than $500,000 in grant money - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "Baldwin County has received more than $500,000 in state and federal grants for airports, firefighting and anti-drug efforts.

That includes a $130,000 state grant to the Baldwin County Drug Task Force,
$324,622 in federal grants for airports in Bay Minette and Gulf Shores and a $60,000 Federal Emergency Management Agency grant to the Magnolia Springs Volunteer Fire Department."

"If we persevere we will come out of this and this community is going to be growing like nobody's business over the next year." Mark Berson, Chamber president - al.com

"If we persevere we will come out of this and this community is going to be growing like nobody's business over the next year." ? Mark Berson, Chamber president - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — The Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce celebrated the passing of its 27th year optimistic the next one — its 28th — would see the tough times subside.

The group, which counts about 1,000 members, met for its annual meeting Friday night at the Perdido Beach Resort.

'This year looks like it's shaping up to be a pretty tough year here,' President Mark Berson said. 'One of those things with being a baby boomer like me is I've seen a lot of things and I've seen the economy go up and down and I promise you this will pass as well."

Despite interest rates decrease, homeowners wait to refinance - al.com

Despite interest rates decrease, homeowners wait to refinance - al.com: "Amanda Landry has a question for those waiting to see interest rates dip lower before they refinance homes or buy property: 'Why be greedy?'

'I have a list of people who want 4.5 percent while I have 4.6 percent,' said Landry of Amicus Mortgage Group's Gulf Shores office. 'It's not going to make a big difference in your payment.'"

Judge appointed in Rose Stabler case - al.com

Judge appointed in Rose Stabler case - al.com: "Former Colbert County Circuit Judge N. Pride Tompkins has been tapped to hear Rose Burch Stabler's malpractice claim against her former divorce attorney, according to court documents.

In the June 26 claim, the estranged wife of retired football standout Kenny Stabler alleges that attorney Mark Ryan's lack of action prolonged the couple's six-year divorce case and did not shield her from the Internal Revenue Service's lien on her Ono Island home."

Shrimp Festival artwork sought

The Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce seeks artists to submit original artwork for the 38th annual National Shrimp Festival poster contest.

This year's festival, presented by Zatarain's, will be held Oct. 8-11 in Gulf Shores. The winning design will become the official poster and becomes the official design for all festival merchandise. The selected artist will receive one payment of $1,000. If under the age of 18, artist must have parents' signature on contract to receive prize money.

Criteria for poster consideration include that the poster theme be about art, food and music. The words "38th Annual National Shrimp Festival" and "2009" must be in cluded in artwork and actual size of poster should not exceed 18 inches horizontal by 24 inches vertical. Artist may only submit one piece of original artwork.

For more information about submitting art, call Megan Smith at the Chamber of Commerce at 251-968-7220 or e-mail events@alagulfcoastchamber.com.

Click here for rules and entry form. Deadline for entry is March 13.

County facing audit response deadline - al.com

County facing audit response deadline - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — As Baldwin County officials begin their full- scale fight against a claim they must repay $10.5 million in

hurricane-cleanup reimbursements, they are questioning how much of the debate must take place in public.

Commissioners and county staff members last week received a deadline of Feb. 21 to officially respond to the Federal Emergency Management Agency about the Office of Inspector General's audit findings."

Orange Beach man jailed on murder, DUI charges after interstate wreck - al.com

Orange Beach man jailed on murder, DUI charges after interstate wreck - al.com: "An Orange Beach man was driving under the influence Saturday when he drove his Toyota 4Runner into the back of a Ford Explorer on Interstate 10, running the second vehicle off the road and killing one of its passengers, according to Alabama State Troopers.

Jonathan Cook, 36, of Orange Beach was arrested on charges of murder and DUI. He was taken to the Baldwin County Corrections Center, where he remained Saturday night.

Yvonne Arnold, 47, of Louisiana was pronounced dead at the scene, authorities said."

When Steve Jobs Met Tim Cook - Digits - WSJ.com

When Steve Jobs Met Tim Cook - Digits - WSJ.com: "For the next six months , Steve Jobs has asked Tim Cook run Apple while Jobs convalesces. For Cook, that must feel a little like getting the keys to dad’s Porsche. For Jobs, it suggests he’s confident Cook won’t drive the company into a ditch.

Rick Devine has a unique view of the relationship of the two Apple executives. Devine was present when Jobs and Cook met for the first time in 1998. At the time, Devine was an executive recruiter at the firm Heidrick & Struggles, which Jobs had hired to conduct searches for a new head of manufacturing operations and a new CEO (Jobs was “interim” CEO at the time; he later took the CEO job himself)."

Apple's new CEO speaks softly and carries a big stick - BloggingStocks

Apple's new CEO speaks softly and carries a big stick - BloggingStocks: "Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) new Chief Executive Tim Cook seems the type who enjoys lurking in the background. For years, he has quietly but effectively undertaken some of Apple's biggest jobs including running the Macintosh business while allowing co-founder Steve Jobs to bask in the spotlight. With Jobs going on leave, Cook will have to step in front of the curtain again.

He ran the show in 2004 when Jobs was treated for cancer. Bloomberg News describes Cook as a soft-spoken yet intense manager who, like his boss, does not suffer fools gladly."

A Motley Fool Look at Apple

A Fool Looks Ahead: "Apple (Nasdaq: AAPL) steps up to the earnings stage, this time without Steve Jobs at the helm. All eyes will be on interim CEO Tim Cook (from Robertsdale, AL) as he goes over what could be a tricky report. The company's momentum on iPods and computers has been waning lately, and the iPhone now has some serious smartphone competition. The weight of the world must be on Cook's shoulders; he's got to prove to the investing community that Apple can get along fine in the near term without Jobs."

Editor Note: We have faith in our Baldwin County native!

Online Universities Becoming More Popular - Alabama Economy Education Orange Beach - WKRG.com

Online Universities Becoming More Popular - Alabama Economy Education Orange Beach - WKRG.com: "Enrollment is up at Columbia Southern University in Orange Beach. In fact, business is so good, the online university just moved into their new, state-of-the-art facility on the Foley Beach Express."

WKRG.com

Jim Brown, developer in Orange Beach case, ordered to serve time - al.com

Jim Brown, developer in Orange Beach case, ordered to serve time - al.com: "A federal judge in Mobile on Friday refused to accept a prosecution recommendation that the briber in an Orange Beach public corruption case spend no time in prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Butler asked for probation for developer Jim Brown in recognition of Brown's help in prosecuting ex-Orange Beach Mayor Steve Russo and two others.

U.S. District Judge Kristi DuBose agreed that Brown deserved a break, but said probation would be unfair."

Defendant-turned-witness gets year and a day in Orange Beach corruption case - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Defendant-turned-witness gets year and a day in Orange Beach corruption case - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "MOBILE, Ala. -- Having sentenced the bribee in an Orange Beach public corruption case to nine years in prison, a federal judge this morning refused to accept a prosecution recommendation that the briber get off with no prison time.

Federal prosecutors asked for probation for developer Jim Brown in recognition of his help in prosecuting ex-Orange Beach Mayor Steve Russo and two others. U.S. District Judge Kristi DuBose agreed Brown deserved a break but said it would be unfair to give him probation."

Meet some of the locals living in paradise | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Meet some of the locals living in paradise | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "Angela Miller Pensacola Director of culinary education for Distinctive Kitchens.

Learning to cook the great cuisine of the Gulf Coast is a pastime with many aspiring chefs, and thanks to Angela Miller, director of culinary education at Distinctive Kitchens at The Wharf, many folks are learning the craft of cooking Gulf Coast-inspired plates.

'Our most popular classes at Distinctive Kitchens are always Girl's Night Out and Date Night. Friends gather and learn the culinary secrets of preparing cuisine from different countries as well as fresh seafood, grilling meats and even cooking with alcohol. I really enjoy teaching in Orange Beach, because there is a great mix of our great loyal locals and new faces from those on vacation. When I'm not working, I still enjoy cooking, as well as running, traveling and painting. I love the beaches, the weather and being around my wonderful family.'"

NFL football fever sizzles | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

NFL football fever sizzles | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "While many football fans will be sitting in their homes Sunday with their HDTVs tuned to the NFL matchup games between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens and the Philadelphia Eagles versus the Arizona Cardinals, some fans will be opting to watch the games while enjoying one of the area's best tailgating parties."

The Keg Lounge in Orange Beach will presenting the NFC/AFC Championship Tailgate Cook-off beginning at 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 18, during which time, football fans can enjoy beer specials and some of the area's best tailgate chow.

The party will begin at the Sand Bar in the back of The Keg. The Budweiser girls will be handing out football favors and other surprises. Bar manager Joseph Coe invited area restaurants to compete for "Best Tailgate" food bragging rights and cold hard cash prizes, including $500 and a trophy for first place, $100 for second place and a plaque for third.

"This event is a way to show the spirit of the community, and that The Keg still has the ability to marshal other area restaurants together for a good cause; that Orange Beach matters in this economy; and to keep the food and beverage business in this area strong," Coe said.

Guthrie's chicken fingers find home in Orange Beach | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Guthrie's chicken fingers find home in Orange Beach | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "For fans of delicious golden-fried chicken fingers take heart, a new Guthrie's franchise is now open in Orange Beach, Ala.

Fans can thank Michael Dagley and Jan Singer of Orange Beach for bringing the popular eatery to the Gulf Coast. They opened it Nov. 1 at 25775 Perdido Beach Blvd.

'My fianc�, Michael, was addicted to Guthrie's chicken fingers when he was in college,' Singer said with a laugh. 'He always said he could eat them for breakfast, lunch and dinner. He told me if he ever got the chance to purchase a franchise store for Guthrie's, he would. Well, he got the opportunity and we did and here we are in Orange Beach.'"

Apple's Tim Cook, Steve Jobs' fill-in, a Robertsdale High and Auburn grad - al.com

Apple's Tim Cook, Steve Jobs' fill-in, a Robertsdale High and Auburn grad - al.com: "Stepping in for Steve Jobs is a tough gig.

But Robertsdale High School graduate Tim Cook may be up to it.

Certainly, Jobs thinks so. The company's high profile co-founder left Cook in charge when cancer surgery forced Jobs to step aside for two months in 2004. With Jobs' health again an issue, he's leaving Apple until June. And the 48-year-old Cook, chief operating officer since 2005, was left running the maker of Macintosh computers, iPods and iPhones."

Judge orders Gulf Shores restaurant arson suspect Tommy Lunceford jailed - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Judge orders Gulf Shores restaurant arson suspect Tommy Lunceford jailed - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "MOBILE, Ala. -- A federal judge here today ordered the detention of arson suspect Tommy Lunceford Jr., ruling that the Gulf Shores businessman poses a threat to the community.

Lunceford, who was the punter on the Auburn University's football team in the 1960s, must remain in jail until his trial, which is scheduled for March. He stands accused of setting fire to a building that he owned off of Ala. 59. The blaze injured a man who was leasing the building and operating it as an Italian restaurant, according to the indictment."

Writing Biography, Family History and Local History

Event: Writing Biography, Family History and Local History with Robert S. Davis
Where: Orange Beach Senior Activity Center
Point of Contact: Maria Bar, 981-2923

Are you writing your family history? Creating a family tree? Or just interested in sharing local history? The Orange Beach Public Library will host speaker Robert S. Davis whose talk entitled, “Writing Biography, Family History and Local History” will answer some of the questions you may have about preserving those memories. This talk will be held on Thursday, January 29, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. at the Orange Beach Senior Activity Center. Mr. Davis is appearing courtesy of the Alabama Humanities Foundation Road Scholars Program. This is event is free and open to the public. For more information on the Orange Beach Public Library visit the Library’s website at www.orangebeachlibrary.org or call 251-981-2923.

Tim Cook from Robertsdale, AL take helm at Apple Computer

Tim Cook from Robertsdale, AL take helm at Apple Computer: "Tim Cook, a Robertsdale, AL native, was hired by Jobs in 1988 to overhaul Apple Computer's manufacturing and distribution networks which were in a shambles.

Cook graduated from Robertsdale High School in 1978. (Cook's parents still reside in Robertsdale.) He went on to earn his bachelor's degree in industrial engineering at Auburn University. Prior to his tenure with Apple, was an operations executive at Compaq Computer and IBM."

Man gets 15 years for attempted murder in Foley knife attack - al.com

Man gets 15 years for attempted murder in Foley knife attack - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — A Baldwin County judge sentenced a Foley man to 15 years in prison for stabbing another man with a filet knife at least seven times after a night of drinking in August 2007, according to statements made in court.

Jonas Guerrero Flores, 29, a Mexican native who lived in Foley, faced spending 10 to 99 years in prison after he pleaded guilty in December to attempting to murder Martin Valle. Valle grew up in the same small town as the defendant and has since returned to Mexico, according to Assistant District Attorney Jeremiah Giles.

At about 2 a.m. Aug. 31, 2007, Foley police responded to a report of someone bleeding from the chest on Little Rock Road, according to police. They found Valle covered in blood. Apparently the men had been drinking in front of mobile homes in the neighborhood throughout the previous evening, according to the police report."

Lagoon Park opens this week - al.com

Lagoon Park opens this week - al.com: "GULF SHORES — Years in the making, the city's Lagoon Park is scheduled to open to boaters this week.

The park, formerly the site of Mo's Landing, a gas station and boat launch, was first eyed in 2006 by city officials who envisioned the storm-battered business as Gulf Shores' first public park and water access on Little Lagoon's north shore.

A pair of boat launches and three short piers are the park's predominant features. One is aimed at providing access to boats up to about 26 feet long while the other is geared for smaller vessels, said Councilman Joe Garris Jr., who is also a charter captain.

'I've already had numerous people tell me how nice it is,' Garris said. 'It's a very well-built dock.'

Though only the smallest boats will be able to enter the Gulf of Mexico through Little Lagoon Pass, the facility will provide public access to the lagoon for the first time since Mo's Landing was destroyed in 2004's Hurricane Ivan."

Feds say Russo co-defendant Brown deserves probation - al.com

Feds say Russo co-defendant Brown deserves probation - al.com: "Federal prosecutors in Mobile recently recommended probation for a co-defendant who testified against ex-Orange Beach Mayor Steve Russo, a fact that drew scorn from Russo's lawyer.

Developer Jim Brown, who was indicted in 2005, along with his onetime business partner, Ken Wall, Russo and then-City Attorney Larry Sutley, cut a deal with prosecutors and testified against the other three during a three-week trial in 2006.

Now, prosecutors recommend that U.S. District Judge Kristi DuBose impose a five-year probation on Brown at his sentencing hearing Friday.

A document filed this week in federal court praised Brown's testimony against his co-defendants and suggested that he has played a role in yet another investigation."

Board approves new GSHS football coach - Baldwin County NOW

Board approves new GSHS football coach - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "GULF SHORES, Ala. — The school board unanimously approved the hiring of Mark Freeman as the new athletic director and head coach at Gulf Shores High School during a special meeting held Tuesday morning."

Freeman, who will be the third head football coach in school history, was not present at the meeting.

He led Bessemer Academy to four AISA state championships and two state runner-up finishes in a six-year span from 2001-2007.

Along with four state championships, Freeman led the Rebels to seven straight area championships and coached 12 players who were finalists for the Alabama Sports Writers Association Player of the Year award.

He was named the AISA Coach of the Year and ASWA Coach of the Year four times.

Gulf Shores' Lagoon Park boat launches to open this week - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Gulf Shores' Lagoon Park boat launches to open this week - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "GULF SHORES -- Years in the making, the city's Lagoon Park is scheduled to open to boaters this week.

The park, formerly the site of Mo's Landing, a gas station and boat launch, was first eyed in 2006 by city officials who envisioned the storm-battered business as Gulf Shores' first public park and water access on Little Lagoon's north shore."

Foley teacher resigns after being charged with intoxication at school - al.com

Foley teacher resigns after being charged with intoxication at school - al.com: "A Foley Middle School teacher resigned Tuesday after she was charged with being intoxicated during school hours Friday, school officials said.

Barbara Riley-Grissom, 55, was arrested on a public intoxication charge by Foley Police at the school at 3:30 p.m. Friday, according to a police report.

Baldwin County Public Schools spokesman Terry Wilhite said a co-worker noticed that the seventh-grade English teacher appeared to be stumbling, and the co-worker alerted an administrator."

Orange Beach council gives new life to Mandolay Beach resort project - al.com

Orange Beach council gives new life to Mandolay Beach resort project - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — The City Council on Tuesday voted unanimously to give a quintet of lenders who've foreclosed on 14.5 Gulf-front acres another eight months to revive the Mandolay Beach resort that was once slated to be built there.

The most current plans for Mandolay Beach include a 40,000-square-foot convention center, a 412-room hotel, a 208-unit condo tower and a public beach at the foot of Ala. 161. City Engineer Kit Alexander said the landowners have said they will likely propose some changes to the design of the resort, but those designs are expected to still include meeting space and a public beach.

Mayor Tony Kennon said that because Mandolay Beach includes plans for a large conference center, it 'has great potential for our business community and our off-season.'"

Southern American English with Catherine Evans Davies

The Orange Beach Public Library is pleased to welcome back Catherine Evans Davies, Professor of Linguistics in the Department of English at the University of Alabama for a program entitled, “Southern American English”. This event will take place on January 22, 2009 at 6:00 p.m. at the Orange Beach Senior Activity Center.

Professor Davies’ presentation explores the influence of immigration patterns on dialect development in Alabama and includes a intricate look at the key dimensions of dialect. Attendees are invited to learn more about the newest area of dialect research, discourse, and its evidence through norms of politeness, indirectness, rituals of conversation and traditional storytelling. Ms. Davies appears courtesy of the Alabama Humanities Foundation Road Scholars Program and is sponsored by the Friends of the Orange Beach Public Library.

Registration is not required for this event and it is free and open to the public.

For more information on this program or the Library please visit the Library website at www.orangebeachlibrary.org or call 251-981-2923.

Gulf Shores Names New Football Coach - Alabama Football School Gulf Shores - WKRG.com

Gulf Shores Names New Football Coach - Alabama Football School Gulf Shores - WKRG.com: "Dr. Ernie Rosado, principal at Gulf Shores High School, his administration and the Baldwin County Board of Education are pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Freeman as head football coach and athletic director of the Gulf Shores High School Dolphins.

The appointment was made Tuesday, Jan. 13 by a vote of the Baldwin County Board of Education.
“We’re very pleased to have Coach Freeman join our staff,” said Dr. Rosado.
“We’re confident that Coach Freeman has the winning set of credentials we need to take our athletic program to great heights,” Rosado said.
Freeman comes to Gulf Shores from Minor High School in Jefferson County where he has been the offensive and quarterback coach. Prior, he was head football coach at Bessemer Academy from 1997 to 2008.
“We welcome Coach Freeman and his family to Baldwin County and Gulf Shores,” said District 5 School Board Member Angie Swiger. “Coach Freeman is not only a strong football coach, but supports promoting young people to their highest possible potential, both academically and athletically,” she said."

Foley police officer cleared in off-duty shooting in Pensacola - al.com

Foley police officer cleared in off-duty shooting in Pensacola - al.com: "A Foley police officer who shot a man while off duty outside a Pensacola bar Dec. 27 acted in self-defense, city officials said Monday.

Maurice Wiley had been on paid administrative leave since shooting Johnny Cloud, 37, in the parking lot of the Boomerzzz bar. On Monday, Foley Police Chief David Wilson said Wiley acted properly under the circumstances.

'It's been concluded, and we determined, he used self-defense,' Wilson said. He said the incident remained under investigation by Escambia County, Fla., sheriff's deputies and that he could not make any other comments about the case."

Residents sue over flooded property - al.com

Residents sue over flooded property - al.com: "GULF SHORES — A group of property owners has sued the city, alleging that road work and an ill-designed drainage system have caused their homes north of the city's schools to flood.

The suit was filed Dec. 15 in Baldwin County Circuit by 19 individuals, some of whom appear to be related, and one corporate entity, GNG Properties. The lawyer for those parties, Buddy Brackin, declined to discuss the suit.

In addition to Gulf Shores, the suit names Alabama Department of Transportation Director Joseph McInnes, engineering firm Volkert and Associates and Cahoon Spence Development Inc."

Reserve tapped to pay bills - al.com

Reserve tapped to pay bills - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — Facing a cash crunch attributed to late-arriving property taxes, the City Council voted during a special Thursday meeting to dip into its sewer reserve fund to pay employees and bills this month.

City leaders plan to withdraw $738,000 from the $6.3 million fund that was established early last year. Using mostly proceeds from sewer tap sales, the fund was created to finance a year's worth of sewer operations in the event of an emergency.

The sewer reserve fund is separate from a $6.6 million emergency reserve account that was created in 2007 to cover day-to-day expenses. But like the general emergency fund, the sewer reserves require a public hearing and the approval of five council members before it can be tapped."

Christmas Boat Parade Winners

January 11, 2009-- Orange Beach / Gulf Shores, AL-- The 23rd annual "Nautical Night of Lights" Christmas boat parade, sponsored by the Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce, featured 17 decorated boats. The parade route began at LuLu's at Homeport Marina to the Intracoastal Waterway to Zeke's Landing Marina in Orange Beach.

Each boat was judged on a combination of creativity, lighting, theme, music and crew attire.

Following the parade, participants and guests gathered at the Down Under Seafood and Oyster Bar at Zeke's Landing for the post-parade party and awards presentation.

In the "Power Boat 33 feet and Above" division, first place was awarded to Capt. Craig Kayda and crew aboard the Independence. Second place was awarded to Capt. Mark Mallet and crew aboard the Bama Lady. Third place was awarded to Capt. Seth Wilson and crew aboard the Rip Tide.

In the "Power Boat 32 feet and Under" division, first place was awarded to Capt. Mike Authemant and crew aboard Da Boat. Second place was awarded to Capt. Mike and Capt. Lori DeAngelis and crew aboard the Dolphin Queen. Third place was awarded to Capt. Bob Pitts and crew aboard Hurricane.

In the Sailboat Division, first place was awarded to Capt. Adam Langston and crew aboard On Call. Second place was awarded to Capt. Robert Clark and crew aboard Leave A Message. Third place was awarded to Capt. John Bozeman and crew on Caddy Wampus.

The Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce, established in 1981, is a 1,000-member strong business organization serving Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan.

Officials ID man found dead in parking lot at City Hall - al.com

Officials ID man found dead in parking lot at City Hall - al.com: "The man who police said killed himself in the parking lot of Orange Beach City Hall was identified Saturday as John David Coddington of Gulf Shores.

Baldwin County Coroner Jim Small said he didn't have any insight into the man's motives.

'He didn't leave a note or anything,' Small said."

Public records indicate Coddington was 64.

An Orange Beach Police Department spokesman could not be reached for comment Saturday.

Inaugural Kayak Fishing Tournament Paddles Its Way to AL Gulf Coast

January 10, 2009-- Gulf Shores / Orange Beach, AL-- Breath-taking coastal destinations throughout the nation are starting to experience an upsurge in kayak fishing tournaments as this highly competitive yet friendly sport quickly gains popularity. The abundant waters of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, AL, will host the Inaugural Alabama Coastal Inshore/Offshore Kayak Fishing Tournament on September 18 and 19, 2009.

Presented by the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission in partnership with the Mobile Bay Kayak Fishing Association (MBKFA), this tournament promises to be one of the largest tournaments of its kind in the state and attract anglers from around the Southeast, who will fish for king mackerel, Spanish mackerel, redfish, speckled trout and flounderin the gulf waters and back bays. Held at the Orange Beach waterfront park, this event will also feature conservation exhibits, children’s activities and live music, all of which is free to the public. Tournament proceeds will benefit Covenant Hospice of Mobile and Baldwin Counties.

“We are extremely excited to bring this emerging sport to Alabama’s beaches,” said Beth Gendler, director of sales for the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau. “With our plentiful waters and scenic views, anglers should expect to have a great time fishing for the top prize. When they are not in the water, we hope these individuals have a chance to enjoy our destination.”

On a similar note, Mike Bosarge, president of MBKFA, shares the enthusiasm.

“Kayakers will have a wonderful time fishing this area, and we cannot wait for them to discover that our area is the ideal location for this type of tournament. We look forward to working with the Alabama Gulf Coast Sports Commission as our organization plans its largest event for 2009.”

The tournament fee is $50.00 per person, and individuals register online at www.mbkfa.com. For more information on this or any other sporting event on the Alabama Gulf Coast, please visit www.alabamabeachsports.com.

Happy New ... Legacy by Andy Andrews

Happy New ... Legacy by Andy Andrews: "January 8, 2009-- Orange Beach, AL-- Happy New Year everyone! I decided to delay this posting until a few days after the New Year actually started in order to give us all time to 'settle in'. Flush with the excitement of champagne corks popping and fireworks lighting the sky, it is a bit too easy to make resolutions based only on emotion. Happy 2009 by Andy Andrews"

Publix deal being negotiated - al.com

Publix deal being negotiated - al.com: "Pact would modify existing agreement between taxpayers and mall owners
Friday, January 09, 2009
By RYAN DEZEMBER, Staff Reporter

GULF SHORES — City officials are in the final stages of negotiating a revenue sharing deal that would bring a Publix grocery store and about 22,000 square feet of additional retail space to the Colonial Pinnacle at Craft Farms development sometime in 2010.

Designs for the 45,000-square-foot grocery store and adjacent shopping center at the northeast corner of
Ala. 59 and Baldwin County 4 were approved by the City Council in October. Construction won't begin, however, until after the city and developers have reached a financial agreement."

Woman dies in Orleans Parish jail's psych unit - Breaking News from New Orleans - Times-Picayune - NOLA.com

Woman dies in Orleans Parish jail's psych unit - Breaking News from New Orleans - Times-Picayune - NOLA.com: "A 43-year-old woman died this week after she collapsed in the jail's psychiatric unit while in restraints, a spokesman for the Orleans Parish criminal sheriff's office said Friday.

Cayne Miceli was arrested Sunday afternoon on municipal charges at Tulane Medical Center, where she had been treated for severe asthma, according to records and interviews with friends. After she was discharged, Miceli caused a 'disturbance' and bit a Tulane University police officer, according to municipal court records.

She was booked with battery of a police officer, resisting arrest and disturbing the peace.

Miceli's unusual death led friends to question both the medical treatment she received at the hospital and her subsequent experience at the jail."

Raised in Gulf Shores, Ala., Miceli had lived in New Orleans for many years, several friends recalled.

Alabama coastal resorts are seeing fewer winter visitors this year - al.com

Alabama coastal resorts are seeing fewer winter visitors this year - al.com: "GULF SHORES — The Erie Myer Civic Center was packed as the 'Kazoo Band' paraded through Thursday, opening the Michigan Club's first meeting of 2009 with a rendition of 'When the Saints Go Marching In.'

But though the center was crowded, plenty of saints were back at their Michigan homes this snowbird season.

Club membership this winter is down about 20 percent, said President Al Meyer, who along with others blamed a slow economy and the advanced ages of many who once drove south to Alabama's beaches to sit out the cold."

Man commits suicide in parking lot at Orange Beach City Hall - al.com

Man commits suicide in parking lot at Orange Beach City Hall - al.com: "A south Baldwin County man in his mid-40s shot himself at about 11 a.m. Friday while sitting inside his car in the parking lot at the Orange Beach City Hall complex, authorities said.

The man, whose identity was withheld Friday pending family notification, died at the scene, said Baldwin County Coroner Jim Small."

Rumors that the man was an employee or former employee began circulating through town Friday, but they are false, Grimes said.

No charges filed in Orange Beach death of pedestrian from Wisconsin - al.com

No charges filed in Orange Beach death of pedestrian from Wisconsin - al.com: "Orange Beach police said an investigation found no wrongdoing in the death of an 81-year-old Wisconsin man struck by a car as he crossed the beachfront highway Monday night.

Assistant Chief Greg Duck said Arden 'Jake' Albright of Oshkosh, Wis., was crossing Ala. 182, also known as Perdido Beach Boulevard, at 6:57 p.m. Monday to go to a gathering of snowbirds when he was hit. He died en route to the hospital, Duck said.

Albright was struck by a westbound 2007 Nissan Altima driven by Herbert Kandel, 78, of Fairhope, about a half-mile west of Ala. 161, Duck said."

Fairhope Honored by “Southern Living” Magazine

Video from WKRG-TV5...

WKRG.com

Like lists? Southern Living readers picks

Like lists? Southern Living readers pick Charleston as best city and more | Hit the Road, Jack | STLtoday: "Birmingham, Ala. - Southern Living magazine asked readers to name their favorite destinations in the South to vacation, eat, shop and more. It’s all in the January issue."

BEST SMALL TOWN
1. Beaufort, SC
2. Fairhope, AL
3. Fredricksburg, TX
4. Blowing Rock, NC
5. Franklin, TN
6. Eureka Springs, AR
7. Oxford, MS
8. Grand Rivers, KY
9. Madison, GA
10. Hendersonville, NC

BEST BEACH
1. Destin, FL
2. Myrtle Beach, SC
3. Gulf Shores/Orange Beach, AL
4. Panama City Beach, FL
5. Hilton Head Island, SC
6. Pensacola, FL
7. Sanibel Island, FL
8. Outer Banks, NC
9. Virginia Beach, VA
10. Isle of Palms, SC

Police: Pedestrian death in Orange Beach 'accident' - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Police: Pedestrian death in Orange Beach 'accident' - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "Orange Beach police said today their investigation has found no wrongdoing in the death of an 81-year-old Wisconsin man struck by a car as he crossed the beachfront highway Monday night.

Assistant Chief Greg Duck said Arden 'Jake' Albright of Oshkosh, Wis., was crossing Ala. 182, also known as Perdido Beach Boulevard, at 6:57 p.m. Monday to go to a gathering of snowbirds when he was hit by Herbert Kandel, 78, of Fairhope ."

Gulf Shores council negotiating deal to bring Publix to Colonial Pinnacle mall - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Gulf Shores council negotiating deal to bring Publix to Colonial Pinnacle mall - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "GULF SHORES, Ala. -- City officials are in the final stages of negotiating a revenue sharing deal that would bring a Publix grocery store and about 22,000 square feet of additional retail space to the Colonial Pinnacle at Craft Farms development sometime in 2010."

Feds testify that Gulf Shores arson suspect Tommy Lunceford tied to half-dozen fires - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com

Feds testify that Gulf Shores arson suspect Tommy Lunceford tied to half-dozen fires - Breaking News from the Press-Register - al.com: "MOBILE, Ala. -- Federal prosecutors in Mobile spent 3 1/2 hours today marshaling evidence against a Gulf Shores businessman accused of burning down a building he was leasing to a restaurant -- including suggestions that he may have been involved in other fires."

OBA Library to Host First Amendment Attorney

Join Media Attorney J. Banks Sewell to discuss how the Internet is changing American journalism on Thursday, January 15, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. at the Orange Beach Public Library . Are newspapers going to disappear? Are the new “citizen journalists” nothing more than people blogging in their bathrobes? Should they receive the same legal protections that have been traditionally reserved for reporters working for the newspapers, radio, and television?

The program is sponsored by the MLRC Institute, a not-for-profit educational organization focused on the media and the First Amendment. This talk is a part of the MLRC Institute’s First Amendment Speakers Bureau, a program created in 2005 to educate the public about the First Amendment. A grant from the McCormick Foundation has funded the Speakers Bureau Development.

The Library is located at 26267 Canal Road in Orange Beach. For more information about the Orange Beach Public Library visit the Library website at www.OrangeBeachLibrary.org or call 251-981-2923.

Auditors say FEMA should seek $10.5 million refund from Baldwin County - al.com

Auditors say FEMA should seek $10.5 million refund from Baldwin County - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — A final report by U.S. government auditors asks the Federal Emergency Management Agency to recover $10.5 million in hurricane debris cleanup payments from Baldwin County.

Those were viewed as fighting words by county commissioners meeting on Tuesday.

'It infuriates me that ... we are being given a black eye,' said Commissioner Wayne Gruenloh. 'We've done everything properly and don't deserve this type of treatment.'"

City sees signs of the times - al.com

City sees signs of the times - al.com: "FOLEY — In order to boost a sagging retail economy, city officials have suspended restrictions on temporary signs.

The City Council voted unanimously Monday night, with Councilman Wayne Trawick absent, to pass an ordinance that relaxes restrictions on advertising flags, banners and other temporary signs by Foley businesses. Mayor John Koniar said the move will be in effect until the economy improves.

'We don't have any time limit on it,' Koniar said. 'The effort here is to help some of these businesses that are struggling to get more people into their establishments and helping them out here. We are happy we could do this; we just hope it does some good for you guys.'"

State insurance regulators take action against Gulf Shores agency over bogus policies - al.com

State insurance regulators take action against Gulf Shores agency over bogus policies - al.com: "The Alabama Department of Insurance has begun disciplinary action against Pamela Wynona Schoen, saying that the owner of Starfish Insurance Agency in Gulf Shores failed to keep her employees from selling bogus policies.

Schoen and Gulf Shores police have said they believe Benton Gray Harvey and Jonathan Adams, former Starfish employees, left the area in September with proceeds from the scam.

The insurance department's complaint, dated Dec. 11 and served in recent days via certified mail, is not a criminal charge but an administrative action under state insurance regulations."

ATF arrests former Auburn punter Tommy Lunceford Jr. in Gulf Shores arson investigation - al.com

ATF arrests former Auburn punter Tommy Lunceford Jr. in Gulf Shores arson investigation - al.com: "Federal agents on Tuesday evening arrested former Auburn University punter Tommy Lunceford Jr. on charges that he burned down his restaurant building in Gulf Shores for insurance money and then tried to intimidate law enforcement investigators.

Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives took Lunceford into custody at his home in Gulf Shores, said Mike Messinger, the resident agent in charge of the agency's Mobile office. Lunceford is expected to make an initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in Mobile.

Lunceford, 62, previously has vigorously maintained his innocence.

Authorities opened an investigation immediately after the November 2007 fire consumed Nick's at Gulf Shores, a restaurant across from Jack Edwards Airport. The restaurant, which was renting space from Lunceford's limited liability company, had been open less than three months."

Gulf Shores narrows coaching search to four - al.com

Gulf Shores narrows coaching search to four - al.com: "Gulf Shores High School has narrowed the list of candidates for its vacant head football coaching position to four and will make a decision by Friday, a source with knowledge of the search told the Press-Register Tuesday.

The source said Gulf Shores defensive coordinator Jay Koziol, Dolphins assistant Marcus Early, Birmingham-Southern offensive coordinator Joel Williams and former Bessemer Academy head coach Mark Freeman are vying to replace Duane Davis, who was fired shortly after Gulf Shores made the first playoff appearance in school history last season.

A search committee consisting of local political leaders and parents will make a recommendation to first-year GSHS principal Ernie Rosado, who will ultimately decide on the hire. Rosado had earlier told school officials that a decision would be made by Jan. 15."

Offender was once a police officer - Local - SunHerald.com

Offender was once a police officer - Local - SunHerald.com: "Yancey worked in Gulf Shores
By ROBIN FITZGERALD - rfitzgerald@sunherald.com

GULFPORT -- Edward Scott Yancey of Long Beach was a police officer in Gulf Shores, Ala., when he was arrested on a federal child pornography charge in the late 1990s, according to the FBI.

More recently, Yancey was a volunteer youth coach in Long Beach until his criminal background became public knowledge.

Yancey will be brought to federal court today for hearings on a charge of felon in possession of a firearm."

Orange Beach Library announces its Jan-March 2009 Schedule

January
1 –Library closed for the New Year
5-10 a.m. Computer Class-IM, Podcasting, Tagging and Mobile Web-More ways the Internet can make your life easier, cheaper or more fun.
3 p.m. Computer Class-Do you Google? Searching and how to do it better
7- 2:30 p.m. Wednesday Book Group-The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society by Mary Ann Shaffer.
8 – 1 p.m. Book talk featuring Suzanne Hudson (In a Temple of Trees) and Joe Formicella (Murder Creek and The Wreck of the Twilight Limited). This will be held in the Library Meeting Room. This is a Meyer Book Group.
6 p.m. Getting the Job – Sue Butts, Director of Employee Relations, Organizational Development & Training at Columbia Southern University will talk about interviewing skills and resumes
12- 10 a.m. Computer Class- Free Software Basics-Downloading and installing of Open Office, Mozilla Firefox and other freeware
3 p.m. Computer Class-Free Downloads! Learn about AVG, Abiword, Ad-aware, and Google Earth.
13- 3:30 p.m.-B.A.G.-Books are Great Reading Group-The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings.
15 – 6 p.m. Online News: Redefining Journalism a presentation by Banks Sewell of Lightfoot, Franklin and White, LLC in Birmingham, AL. Mr. Sewell appears courtesy of the First Amendment Speakers Bureau
19- Library closed for Martin Luther King’s Birthday
22 – 6 p.m. Southern American English, a presentation by Catherine Evans Davies, Professor of Linguistics in the Department of English at the University of Alabama. This program begins with the influence of immigration patterns on dialect development in Alabama and continues with a focus on the key dimensions of dialect. Attendees will learn more about the newest area of dialect research, discourse, and its evidence through norms of politeness, indirectness, rituals of conversation and traditional storytelling. Ms. Davies appears courtesy of the Alabama Humanities Foundation Road Scholars Program and is sponsored by the Friends of the Orange Beach Public Library
26- 10 a.m.. Computer Class-Know Your Computer-Basic overview of the parts of a computer and common computing terms
3 p.m. Computer Class- What is Social Networking? How can it benefit me and why is it so big with today’s youth.
29 – 6 p.m. Writing Biography, Family History and Local History, a presentation by Robert S. Davis. “The basics of this talk include reasons for needing to record or recover the past, means of obtaining information and methods of saving or presenting the information (such as manuscript, tape, privately published books, articles, standard book publication, CD-ROM and Internet Web sites).” Mr. Davis appears courtesy of the Alabama Humanities Foundation Road Scholars Program.

February
2- 10 a.m. Computer Class-Maintenance and Security-Best practices to keep your computer running smoothly.
3 p.m. Computer Class- Do you Google? Searching and how do it better.
4- 2:30 p.m. Wednesday Book Group-People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks.
5 – 6 p.m. Classical guitar concert featuring Peter Fletcher.
9- 10 a.m. Computer Class-Email-Setting-up a free account, using the address book, attachments & more.
3 p.m. Computer Class-Free Downloads! Learn about AVG, Abiword, Ad-aware, and Google Earth.
10-3:30 p.m.-B.A.G.-Books are Great Reading Group-The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood.
12 – 1 p.m. Reading featuring Pulitzer Prize winning Rick Bragg. This event will be held at the Rave Motion Theater at The Wharf. This is a Meyer Book Group.
16- 10 a.m. Computer Class-Internet Searching-Where to go when you want to know and how to get the best results.
3 p.m. Computer Class-Bookmarking Web 2.0 style! Basic bookmarking and Web 2.0, come see what’s it’s all about.
19 – 6 p.m. Our Energy, Our Future, a presentation of the Baldwin Electric Membership Cooperative (EMC) speakers bureau.
23- 10 a.m. Computer Class-Word Processing- Overview of popular programs and tips and trick for easier work.
3 p.m. Computer Class- What is Social Networking? How can it benefit me and why is it so big with today’s youth.
26 – 6 p.m. An evening with architectural historian John Sledge (discussing his book, An Ornament to the City: Old Mobile Ironwork and his forthcoming book about Greek Revival architecture in Mobile).

March
2- 10 a.m. Computer Class-Spreadsheets-What they are and how they can make you Internet experience richer.
4- 2:30 p.m. Wednesday Book Group- To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
9- 10 a.m. Computer Class-Photos-Viewing, storing, printing, and editing digital photos.
10- 3:30 p.m. B.A.G.-Books are Great Book Group-The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Micheal Chabon
16-10 a.m. Computer Class-Blogs, RSS and Wikis-What they are and how they can make your Internet experience richer.
19-5:15 p.m. Movie-The classic 1962 film To Kill a Mockingbird starring Gregory Peck
23- 10 a.m. Computer Class-IM, Podcasting, Tagging and Mobile Web-More ways the Internet can make your life easier, cheaper or more fun.

For more info please contact Andie Y. Mewbourn 251-980-2360, or visit www.OrangeBeachLibrary.org

Click here for a Map & an Aerial View of the Orange Beach Library.

Winter visitors flocking south - al.com

Winter visitors flocking south - al.com: "With gas prices down, but the economy slowing, Gulf Shores and Orange Beach can only wait and see how big the migration of snowbirds will be in winter 2009.

The influx of retirees from cold-weather regions, most from the Midwest, has long been a boost for the area during otherwise lean months. Their numbers totaled about 15,050 in 2008.

'Reservations at this point are about even with this time last year,' said Herb Malone, director of the Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau."

Alabama one of nation’s ‘stickiest’ states - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

Alabama one of nation’s ‘stickiest’ states - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. — When Lynyrd Skynyrd sang “Sweet Home Alabama,” the state’s residents surely identified with its lyrics. A new study about population migration in the United States puts Alabama as one of the top 20 of what the study calls “sticky states” or states where people tend to “stick around.”

The study, conducted by the Pew Research center, measured American’s moving habits around the country. The study found that people are settling down, with 57 percent of adult Americans living their entire lives in the state they were born.

Americans are often viewed as always on the move. However, the trend seems to be everyone is settling down. Between 2007 and 2008 only 11.9 percent of Americans moved, marking the lowest number since the government began tracking the trend in the 1940s.

While many of the reasons seem circumstantial such as a new job, or pursuit of higher education, many Baldwin County residents just think Alabama is a great place to live.

“Baldwin County is a beautiful place,” Kathy Danielson of the Foley Conventions and Visitor’s Bureau said. “We have all the natural resources; everything we need.”

Rec & Golf Center fees drop for nonresidents - al.com

Center fees drop for nonresidents - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — Membership fees for residents won't change at the Recreation Center — at least not in 2009 — but the City Council plans to approve a new rate plan for nonresidents and visitors at its Tuesday meeting.

The new rates, which will generally lower membership fees for all but Orange Beach residents, are geared toward luring more gym users and therefore more revenue, said Mayor Tony Kennon.

'The main purpose essentially is to increase membership, increase revenue from other sources that don't put quite the demand on residents' fees,' Kennon said during a council work session last week."

Flora-Bama Polar Bear Dip

From Fox 10 News...

Swimmers brave cold Gulf water at the annual Polar Bear Dip at the Flora-Bama - al.com

Swimmers brave cold Gulf water at the annual Polar Bear Dip at the Flora-Bama - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — Shivering and dripping wet from his first Jan. 1 plunge into the Gulf of Mexico, Don Mathis raised a champagne toast with friends on the beach and pronounced the moment 'perfect.'

'I felt alive and great before I went in, and when I came out I felt even better. This is the only way to start the New Year,' said the Pensacola man, one of an estimated 300 participants in the 25th annual Polar Bear Dip on Thursday at the Flora-Bama Lounge and Package Store.

Another first-timer, Jeff Boutwell of Troy, was less philosophical, saying he was ready to 'get some antifreeze.'"

Snowbirds back for the winter | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Snowbirds back for the winter | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "They're baaaack . . . welcome snowbirds!

The first week of January means one thing in Perdido Key and Pleasure Island — the official arrival of the snowbirds.

No, this not some exotic bird of paradise taking refuge along the warmer Gulf Coast from Canada before winging it to tropical Honduras.

Rather, this the annual migration of those Northern species who migrate south to Pleasure Island for the winter. They arrive in a procession in luxurious behemoth recreational vehicles called Cougar, Nomad and Intruder.

When he's visiting here for the winter, Warn Dowling likes to kayak, fish, bicycle, golf and enjoy the warmer temperatures along the Gulf Coast.

Dowling and his wife, Joann, migrate from Pittsburgh in their 35-foot Winnebago each December. Like many snowbirds, the pair stay at Gulf State Park RV Campground in Gulf Shores, a sort of ground zero for Pleasure Island's winter guests."

Online court records a lucrative business - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama

Online court records a lucrative business - Baldwin County NOW - A Gulf Coast Information Source for South Alabama: "FAIRHOPE, Ala. — Today marks the end of the non-bid contract between the Alabama Administrative Office of Courts and the Mobile-based company that provides technical support for electronic access to public court records in Alabama.

“We are currently negotiating a renewal contract with (On Line Information Services Inc.),” said Griffin Sikes Jr., AOC’s legal division director in Montgomery. “They are a private contractor which, working together with AOC (Information Technology services), designed the software for our databases and advanced the resources necessary for the court system to operate, manage, update, etc., our electronic database system in return for a portion of the revenues generated by the (Alacourt.com) subscriptions.”

The original three-year “sole source data vendor agreement” between AOC and OLIS began Jan. 1, 2004. The contract was extended by a memorandum of agreement signed Oct. 24, 2006, for an additional period ending Dec. 31, 2008."

Lobbyists being asked to take pay cuts - al.com

Lobbyists being asked to take pay cuts - al.com: "ORANGE BEACH — Municipal employees aren't the only ones who'll see their salaries slashed in 2009: the city's lobbyists in Montgomery and Washington, D.C., are also being asked to take pay cuts this year.

Mayor Tony Kennon said Tuesday that while Orange Beach very much wants to continue its relationships with lobbyists on Capitol Hill and in the Statehouse, he has asked both of them to work for less money in 2009, which municipal financial planners are forecasting to be a lean year.

On Tuesday, the council will consider renewing the contract of its federal lobbyist, Ray Cole of Van Scoyoc Associates, who was paid $5,500 a month, or $66,000, in 2008, Kennon said."

CSU to open new home | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

CSU to open new home | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "On Jan. 16, Columbia Southern University employees, public officials and local business leaders will celebrate the grand opening of the school’s new 67,000-square-foot Orange Beach, Ala. home.
Advertisement

The event begins at 9 a.m. with remarks from CSU President Robert Mayes, City of Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon, and Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce President Mark Berson. Tours and refreshments will also be offered, CSU officials said in a news release."

Sand Island lighthouse to be part of new series of stamps - al.com

Sand Island lighthouse to be part of new series of stamps - al.com: "Sand Island Lighthouse, the 135-year-old tower at the entrance of Mobile Bay, will be featured on a U.S. Postal Service stamp next year, officials said Monday.

It's one of five Gulf Coast lighthouses selected for a commemorative collection slated to be released in the summer. Paintings of lighthouses at Matagorda Island, Texas; Sabine Pass, La.; Biloxi; and Fort Jefferson, Fla., will also be part of the 42-cent stamp collection.

'Hopefully, these stamps will bring attention to these lighthouses and the efforts behind them to keep them alive,' said Postal Service spokesman Mark Saunders."

County achieves better flood insurance rating - al.com

County achieves better flood insurance rating - al.com: "BAY MINETTE — Thousands of federal flood insurance policyholders in Baldwin County are receiving a holiday bonus in the form of more money saved on premiums, thanks to an improved rating obtained by local officials.

The improvement from a Class 8 to a Class 7 in the Community Rating System Program has resulted in a 15 percent discount in the premium cost of flood insurance — up from a 10 percent discount, county officials said.

The total savings countywide is now $640,000 and an average of $68 savings per policy for nearly 9,500 policyholders in the Special Flood Hazard Areas of unincorporated Baldwin, according to a county report."

Fulfill your learn-to-cook resolution | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal

Fulfill your learn-to-cook resolution | pnj.com | Pensacola News Journal: "If your New Year's resolutions include learning how to cook, two local institutions would be happy to help.
Advertisement

Distinctive Kitchens, with locations in downtown Pensacola at 29 S. Palafox Place and at The Wharf in Orange Beach, Ala., 4790 Wharf Parkway, Building F, Suite 208, offers a wide variety of cooking classes throughout the year.

Classes in Pensacola in January will feature some of the area dining scene's heaviest hitters sharing their secrets, including sessions with Big Sexy Food's Chris Kimberl and John Murphy on Jan. 8; Jerry Mistretta of Jerry's Cajun Cafe on Jan. 12; Joe Abston of Hopjacks on Jan. 14; and Jay Ammons of Seville Quarter on Jan. 21. The location also features a variety of classes for kids.

Meanwhile, classes in Orange Beach with Chef Angela include sessions on sharpening your knife skills on Jan. 7 and the flavors of Morocco on Jan. 16."

Teens responsible for stabbing death in Magnolia Springs | Fox10tv.com

Teens responsible for stabbing death | Fox10tv.com: "BAY MINETTE, Ala. - Baldwin County Corrections Center now holds two capital murder suspects. Floyd Casey, 18-years-old, surrendered late Tuesday afternoon and 19-year-old Cortez Porter was arrested Monday.

Last week on County Road 49 in Magnolia Springs, 52-year-old Edward McCrory was stabbed to death. At the time, investigators also discovered several items stolen from his home including a 4-wheeler.

Patty Schutt Lives down the road from the crime scene. 'It's a crazy world, you hear these kind of things on the news all the time, you just don't think it's going to be close to home like it was to mine,' said Schutt."

Best Weather Photos of 2008 - Weather Meteorology Lightning Picture - WKRG.com

Best Weather Photos of 2008 - Weather Meteorology Lightning Picture - WKRG.com: "These 27 photos submitted by News 5 viewers to the weather gallery of wkrg.com were selected for variety and for how pretty or unique they are. Many others came close.

Half the trick of a good weather picture is simply watching the sky and being at the right place at the right time but here's the other half which involves art and basic setup. It doesn't take an expensive camera but it usually involves something better than a cell phone camera."

WKRG.com

Zoo Director Patty Hall speaks at Jan. 3 GSFP Breakfast

Mullet Wrapper: "Patti Hall, Director of the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo, will speak at the Shores First Presbyterian Church's monthly Men and Women's Breakfast at 8 a.m. on January 3.
After graduating from the university of Louisville ,Hall was appointed Director of Montessori of Kentucky Herr Lane Academy in Louisville. Five years later she spearheaded a pilot project funded under the Older Americans Act. During her eight years there, four centers were established throughout the county with sixty thousand seniors identified, receiving a myriad of services; today the program is 35 years old and still thriving."

Snowbird News from the Mullet Wrapper

Snowbird News from the Mullet Wrapper: "We invite anyone who is from Wisconsin, or has lived in Wisconsin, to join the WI Sno-birds at the Orange Beach Community Center (OBCC) at 8:30 am on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of January, February and March. We get together for coffee and donuts with a meeting beginning at 9 am.
You will hear about golf, day trips, casino trips, and card playing with others from WI. We often have guest speakers come in to tell us more about the Gulf Coast area. There is a book/puzzle exchange and door prizes.
We also meet on the 2nd Wednesday for breakfast at different locations to sample the restaurants. And you can volunteer your efforts on several projects - zoo, museum, brat fest, and pancake breakfast.
Jan 7 - meeting OBCC; 12-13 - Biloxi Casino overnight trip; 14 - breakfast gathering; 21 - meeting at OBCC; 23 - golf FUN day; 28 - potluck at OBCC; 31 - BRAT FEST at Erie Meyer Center
Please join us at the OBCC at 8:30 on January 7. Call Kenn Krouse for additional information or directions: (251) 967-2463 or wissnobirds@yahoo.com"

Skies should clear by tonight - al.com

Skies should clear by tonight - al.com: "Cloudy skies, with isolated showers, are called for in today's forecast. Expect highs in the mid- to upper 60s, with a 20 percent chance of rain. Skies are expected to clear, with rain chances lowering throughout the day, eventually to 5 percent tonight. Overnight lows in the mid-30s to mid-40s should accompany clear night skies."

Slump thins local Realtors' ranks - al.com

Slump thins local Realtors' ranks - al.com: "Sluggish sales have slashed the real estate ranks in Baldwin County, where a red-hot resort market has long cooled and agents are trading their commission-driven vocation for a steady paycheck.

Dues-paying members dropped 17.6 percent to 1,400 people in the past year at the Baldwin County Realtors Association, according to Martha Taylor, executive director. The group's numbers peaked at almost 2,000 in 2005, at the height of the sizzling resort market. She expects to lose more members when association dues start renewing on Jan. 1, 2009.

Many of the agents who dropped out were 'order tak ers,' during the boom market, Taylor said."

Shooting Rocks Pensacola Bar - Foley Police Racial Officer Involved Shooting Officer Involved Shooting - WKRG.com

Shooting Rocks Pensacola Bar - Foley Police Racial Officer Involved Shooting Officer Involved Shooting - WKRG.com: "Foley Police Officer Maurice Wiley is on administrative leave. Foley Police officials say he was off duty when the officer shot a Century, Florida man in self defense. Authorities say the suspect, who is white, was hurling racial slurs at the officer, who is black, and approached him with a knife. The incident happened at 2:30 Saturday morning.

Amid the Sunday football ritual, the small crowd of regulars at Boomerzzz bar in Pensacola can't stop talking about the recent shooting."

WKRG.com

'Bama bests: What not to miss on the Gulf Coast - Travel - MiamiHerald.com

'Bama bests: What not to miss on the Gulf Coast - Travel - MiamiHerald.com: "If you want to experience the South in all its drawl-y, deep-fried glory, go north to Alabama. Proudly honky-tonk but increasingly sleek thanks to posh new condo developments, Alabama's Gulf Coast is the place to go for a hit of Southern Exposure.

Order a mess of fried crab claws, go to a dive bar and watch the sun set, and enjoy white-sand beaches without a smidgen of attitude.

Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are full of southern-fried charm, low-key fun (there's a festival devoted to tossing mullet) and more moss-draped beauty than you can shake a fish at. It's an awesome place to take the kids, thanks to its barefoot beach-town vibe. Warning: You'll find your newly-adopted Southern accent hard to shake.

Here's a look at some of our top picks. Enjoy, ya'all!"

The South’s Other Gulf Coast

DEBBIE AND BROCK HATTOX started their hunt for a second home with two conditions. “He wanted to play golf year-round,” Mrs. Hattox said, “and I wanted to be on some type of water.”

The couple were living in Atlanta when they began their search 10 years ago. They visited many spots, including Hilton Head, S.C., where they had lived in the 1970s, and various waterfront sites in Florida. When Mr. Hattox’s younger brother suggested Gulf Shores, Ala., Mrs. Hattox turned to the map. “I didn’t realize Alabama had a coastline,” she said.

She learned that Alabama does in fact have 32 miles of shoreline, the shortest among the five states that front the Gulf of Mexico. The Hattoxes visited the white beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach next door, studying housing options that included condos and houses that were on the beach, as well as properties inland along golf courses, bays and waterways.

New York Times

Requests for aid increasing on island

Layoffs, pay cuts hit workers during holidays
Friday, December 26, 2008
By GUY BUSBY
Staff Reporter

While shoppers filled stores in the last hours before Christmas, services agencies were experiencing another holiday rush, and business for them was booming.

With more residents laid off and some still with jobs facing cuts in employment hours, requests for help along the Gulf Coast have doubled from the same time last year, said Linda Chappell of the Christian Service Center. The center, a United Way agency, operates year-round, but requests have been heavy this season, she said.

Mobile Press-Register

Foley Middle to make documentary

School one of 10 nationwide and only facility in Alabama chosen to participate in John F. Kennedy Performing Arts Center program
Friday, December 26, 2008
By FRANKLIN HAYES
Staff Reporter

Educators at Foley Middle School will be given a rare opportunity in spring to showcase a unique art curriculum. The school was chosen as one of 10 across the nation — and the only school in Alabama — to participate in a program sponsored by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, a Washington, D.C.-based educational facility that is administered by the Smithsonian Institution.

Students will create a documentary about Fairhope artist Ricky Trione, a blind painter who visits students and demonstrates his ability to create visual art.

Trione said he lost his sight after two freak acci dents. In 1993, a logging truck slung a rock through his car window that permanently damaged his left eye, he said. Seven years later, his car stalled and he pulled over along Ala. 59 near Stockton, he said. While he was outside inspecting his vehicle, an 18-wheeler passing by blew a tire and a fragment struck him in the face, knocking him unconscious, he said. His next memory was waking up in the hospital and learning that he was blind.

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Principal's head shaven to help ease kids' worries

Student-issued haircuts raise more than $600 for Sand, Sea and Stars Learning Center
Friday, December 26, 2008
By FRANKLIN HAYES
Staff Reporter

When Orange Beach Elementary Principal Steve Baker learned he would need chemotherapy, his thoughts soon turned to his students and how they would react to seeing him without hair.

Baker, who was diagnosed with cancer in August, said he has a long-standing tradition of greeting each kindergarten through sixth-grade student as they enter the building every morning. Baker and his staff came up with a solution to pre-empt the inevitable questions from students and turn his sickness into a learning experience.

In early December, Baker, 52, explained his medical situation to the student body at an assembly and raffled off opportunities to shave his head for 25 cents each. One student for each grade level was chosen to give Baker's head a buzz. The teacher whose class had purchased the most chances was also given a turn with the razor.

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Final Orange Beach City Council Work Session (COW)

December 24, 2008- The final 2008 City of Orange Beach Council Work Session will take place on Tuesday, December 30th in the Council Chambers at the Orange Beach City Hall Complex. The agenda for this meeting has been published on the on The Orange Beach Community Website. Links to online video of the Orange Beach Regular Session Council Meetings since November 18th are also available at the link below.

Click to view the Orange Beach City Council Index.

Christmas Cards, Killer Whales, and Cows

December 23, 2008- Orange Beach, AL- While looking at The Orange Beach Community Website's stats last night we noticed hundreds of visitors coming from Andy Andrews' website. (As most locals know, Andy Andrews is a New York Times Best Selling Author, and world-renowned speaker who makes his home on the Alabama Gulf Coast.) Why would all of these visitors be coming from Andy's website to the OBA website right before Christmas?

Andy Andrews, New York Times Best Selling Author

As it turns out Andy, in his Christmas Blog, mentions our story about the Killer Whales, and puts a link to the article from his blog. And we are glad he did... not only for the hundreds of visitors he directed to OBA, but because of this link we found Andy's Christmas Blog... a blog post with good ideas for Christmas and the New Year ahead. Click here to read Andy's Christmas Blog, and to learn more about the world-renowned writer & speaker we have living in our community. Looking for a great last minute Christmas gift? You can find all Andy Andrews' books and CDs at Pack & Mail in the Winn Dixie Shopping Center here in Orange Beach. (Open Christmas Eve Day until 3:00pm.) Andy's works make great inspirational Christmas gifts. Click here to read A Special Christmas Poem, our Christmas post from last year.

Gulf Shores mayor home after hospital tests

Robert Craft awaiting results from UAB
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
By GUY BUSBY
Staff Reporter

Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft is home resting following hospital tests in Birmingham over the weekend, city officials said Monday.

Craft went to the University of Alabama-Birmingham Medical Center for checks after suffering several incidents of dizziness, said Steve Garman, city administrator.

Garman said the mayor decided to have to elective surgery while activity at City Hall was at a low level. The surgery allowed doctors to take tissue samples to check a possible growth in Craft's head, according to officials.

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Former D.A. Arrested

Video from WKRG-TV5...

WKRG.com