Beachin' (December 2015)

Beachin’

December 2015

Eating • Exploring • Fun • Services • Shopping

Your guide to life on the Alabama Gulf Coast

30th Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade at the beach

Volume 18, Number 12

INSIDE: Holiday Season Calendar of Events

Calling All Artists of the Beach Gulf Coast Media GulfVisitorGuide.com

on Page 6

Bill’s By The Beach Seasonal Menu Appetizers Coconut Shrimp Bacon & Crab Cheesecake Smoked Tuna Giant Hushpuppies Fried Green Tomato Sliders Peel & Eat Gulf Shrimp Fried Mac & Cheese Bread Boule

Soup Chicken and Sausage Gumbo Crab & Corn Bisque Soup of the Day

Coconut Shrimp Appetizer

Salads Grilled Caesar Salad Apple, Pecan & Bleu Cheese Salad Goat Cheese Popper Salad House Salad

Visit bbtb.com/menus to view our $10 & UNDER LUNCH MENU

Lunch & Dinner Favorites The Beach Eats USA episode on Food Network featuring Bill’s By The Beach highlighted Chef Jon’s savory Bacon and Crab cheesecake creation, with rich flavors of bacon, crab, cream cheese and Vidalia tomato jam. Made entirely from scratch in-house, this popular and delicious appetizer is suitable to share.

Order online now and we will ship directly to you! Perfect for a gift or even a little selfindulgence. bbtb.com/store

View the full seasonal menu at bbtb.com/menus.

Porterhouse Pork Chop Cowboy Ribeye Steak Cowgirl Ribeye Steak Petite Filet Mignon "Catch of the Day" New Orleans Style Gulf Shrimp Platter Seafood Pot Pie Shrimp & Grits Pasta-laya Pecan Pesto Linguini Three Cheese Mac Spinach Alfredo Smoked Tuna Melt Classic Cuban Chef's Daily Taco Selection Bill’s Beach Burger Fried Shrimp Po'boy Menu subject to change without notice.

251-948-5227 | 300 West Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542

2 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 3

a letter from the

editor

A specialty publication of Gulf Coast Media PUBLISHER Parks Rogers parks@gulfcoastmedia.com

EDITOR/ADVERTISING Destiny Brown destiny@gulfcoastmedia.com

COPY EDITOR John Mullen johnm@gulfcoastmedia.com

ADVERTISING Brad Day brad@gulfcoastmedia.com 251.943.2151

Frank Kustura

frank@gulfcoastmedia.com 251.923.8129

Jeniece Bouzan

jeniece@gulfcoastmedia.com 251.978.0497

DESIGN AND LAYOUT Cary Howard Leigh Mitchell CONTRIBUTING WRITERS AND PHOTOGRAPHERS Capt. Phil Dortch and Capt. Mark Robinson

Beachin’ magazine is published monthly by Gulf Coast Media, PO Box 509 - Robertsdale, AL 36567 - 251.947.7712.

Distributed free by The Alabama Gulf Coast Convention & Visitor’s Bureau and at other locations throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan.

All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited.

Gulf Coast Media accepts no responsibility in the guarantee of goods and services advertised herein.

BEACH ACCESS

Hello there...

Most people don’t relate the holiday season with the beach. Our snow is sand and our “cold months,” are still the months when snowbirds come visit to escape their cold up North.

Holiday cheer is around the Island all month long.

The Lighted Christmas Parade takes it’s annual sail through the Island, The Wharf invites all to come ice skating and St. Nick himself is taking a tour to many beach locations to take pictures with the kids.

If you’re shopping for the holidays, remember to shop local. There are venues on the Island that specialize in local art and invite you to come view their galleries. Also be sure to check out a few locations at the beach where you and your family can make your own art during the holiday season.

I’ll see you there in my beach chair,

– Destiny Brown

find us online Find Beachin’ Magazine on Facebook • local event updates • live music lineups • photos and more

Share your photos with us by tagging us on Facebook.

No fees for beach access; parking is free at most of these public beaches.

Florida Point: Located 0.3 miles east of Perdido Pass Bridge Cotton Bayou: Located at the intersection of Highway 182 and Highway 161 Romar Beach: Located 6.8 miles east of Highway 59 The Gulf State Park Pavilion Area: Located six miles east of Highway 59. $6 fee to park all day ($12 for large vans).

Gulf Shores Public Beach: Located where Highway 59 dead-ends.

Gulf Shores Second Street Public Beach: Located two blocks west of Highway 59.

4 Beachin • December 2015

e-editions Find the e-edition by visiting issuu.com and searching for Beachin’ or Gulf Coast Media.

You can also access our e-editions through GulfCoastNewsToday.com. Just click on the “Magazine tab” and select “Special Publications.”

GulfVisitorGuide.com

about the cover

Beachin’ loring • Fun

December 2015

Eating • Exp

Your guide to

pping

• Services • Sho

life on the

Diane Davis gets ready to sail through the Island in the Annual Christmas Boat Parade at the beach (Mark Robinson.)

Coast Alabama Gulf

30th Annual ted Christmas Ligh Boat Parade at the beach INSIDE: Holiday ar Season Calend of Events 12 Volume 18, Number

Call Now for In Store Classes

Calling All Artists of the Beach

on Page 6

Gulf Coast Media de.com GulfVisitorGui

contents CALLING ALL ARTISTS of the Beach

WHERE TO CREATE your own pieces of art

SISTERS BY RUM

6

10% Off Purchase thru 12/31/2015

9 16

Open Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm

Call 251-971-2005

10062 Tony Drive, Foley, AL 36535

(Co. Rd. 20, East of Hwy. 59 on the left before the Beach Express)

CHRISTMAS LIGHTED BOAT PARADE

18

WHAT TO DO AT THE BEACH

22

LIVE LOCAL MUSIC

27

SAIL WITH SANTA

33

BEACHIN’ CHURCHES

35

HOOKED ON FISHIN’

36

WHO’S ON THE ISLAND

38

www.billys-seafood.com

DINING GUIDE

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Billy’s Seafood If It Swims, We’ve Got It! Fresh Seafood Daily From Our Boats

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5 LBS. OR MORE HEADLESS SHRIMP

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(Not Valid with Any Other Coupon or Discount)

“Gift Certificates Available” Open Monday-Saturday 7am-5:00pm

GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 5

CALLING ALL

Artists

OF THE BEACH

By Destiny Brown

6 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

Local art continues to be a popular interest here at the beach. There are a variety of locally owned stores, galleries and festivals that specialize in showcasing creations handcrafted by Gulf Coast artists. There are also a variety of venues that invite participants to create their own works of art, which can be a wonderful bonding time with family and friends for the holidays. From art markets to watercolor classes to glass blowing demonstrations, opportunities to purchase and create art are everywhere on the Island.

One of the local galleries to find or create your own art is the Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Gallery in Gulf Shores. The idea for the GCAA Gallery was formed in January 2013, but it wasn’t until 2014 that the Gallery building was instated.

“We needed a place for local artists to display their works and get together and share their visions,” said Maria Bastin, chairman/treasurer of the GCAA. “We saw that there was a place for us here and it bloomed into the GCAA and GCAA Gallery.”

The building that hosts the Gallery was a former church, and is now the prime art building in the Waterway Village District in Gulf Shores.

GCAA is a non-profit organization and hosts an art market each month where they invite local artist to display their creations. The Art Market continues to grow as more and more artists are taking advantage of the opportunity to display their work.

Another local venue for both displaying and creating art is The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach. The Arts Center is a cultural arts campus that includes separate areas for each of it’s focuses, The Hot Shop, The Clay Studio and The Gift Shop.

The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach was, until recently, located in Orange Beach’s first hotel, which was built in 1923. The facility was only accessible by water until Canal Road was completed in the late 1940s.

The Arts Center, previously managed by Friends of the GulfVisitorGuide.com

Arts nonprofit group, became an Orange Beach city facility in 2013. The city continues to work with the Friends of the Arts to help make the center a well-rounded oasis for the arts.

Due to severe structural damage and black mold, the building was torn down in spring 2015. The new gallery is expected to be finished in early 2017.

The Art Center holds an art festival every year. For 42 years, it has been a celebration of visual, performing, musical and culinary arts. More than 100 artists participate in the event. Festival-goers always have plenty to see, hear, and experience.

The thing that appeals to most about local art, is that it’s 100 percent original.

“Local art is important because you can find one-ofa-kind items that you can’t find in department stores,” said Eloise Thomley, vice chairman of the Gulf Coast Arts Alliance. “It’s special to people to have something created by local artists and it seems to appeal to a lot of the people in this area.”

This holiday season, local art is a great gift idea for something original, and from the heart. With the many varieties of different art, it makes it possible to find the perfect personalized gift for a loved one.

“I love giving a one-of-a kind gift to family and friends,” said Jessica Jones, marketing director for Coastal Arts Center Orange Beach. “As in all pied beauties, each artwork has special characters that make it distinctly human. Each item shows the thought I’ve put into purchasing when I find something in a loved one’s favorite color, style or genre.”

As for the artist, they feel the love when their artwork is purchased. For some artist, it’s more about the personal level of giving their art to someone.

“Buying local art is special because it gives you an opportunity to meet the artist and learn what inspired them in creating the artwork,” said Kerry Parks, resident glass artist at Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach. “One December 2015 • Beachin’ 7

true beauty of art is that people tend to draw their own personal response or interpretation from a piece of work, so it is quite a special experience to hear from the artist the story of its creation.”

When you purchase local art, you’re not only helping promote local businesses and getting an original piece, you’re giving back to the community, and enriching the artist. You’re helping them continue to create their works of art while also putting money back into the community that supports them.

“When you buy local art, you are also enriching local artists’ lives which positively affects local economy as well as gives people support to continue doing what they love,” said Parks.

The qualifications for being displayed at the GCAA Gallery and the Coastal Arts Center vary. As an outlet for local artists, galleries urge local artists to get involved in promoting their art and invite anyone to register to be showcased.

More than 50 artist are displayed at the GCAA Gallery.

Artists must register and bring a sample of their work to be juried in by a panel of GCAA board members. Some artists displayed in the Gallery are also teachers of the different art classes that are offered.

“We have a good variety of art that portrays the different parts of our area,” Bastin said. “Sure there are landscapes of the beach, but there is also artwork from the different regions; the wetlands, different birds and animals. We have so many beautiful things in this area, and we want to showcase that.”

Artists must also be juried in by a panel of jurors at the Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach.

“Potential artists bring three pieces to the Art Center and a panel of jurors decides if that artist will be invite to show in our gallery and gift shop,” Jones said.

The art at the Coastal Arts Center Gallery is also largely inspired by the beach region.

“I draw inspiration predominately from nature, particularly the Gulf, as I make a lot of glass sea creatures and use a color palette that usually tends to revolve around blues and greens like the bodies of water I have grown up around,” Parks said.

“Inspiration is drawn, for me, from the natural world that surrounds me, the beauty of the Coast,” said Maya

Shop for Local Art this Holiday Season!

Located in the Waterway Art Village

225 E 24th Ave, Gulf Shores, AL 36542 251-948-2627 www.gulfcoastartsalliance.com 8 Beachin • December 2015

Blume-Cantrell, resident ceramic artist at the Coastal Arts Center. “I love being able to absorb the beauty and form of the marsh grasses, breaking waves, or unfurling petals of the jasmine blossom and transform these into a new and unique beauty and form out of clay.”

The popularity of the classes offered at the GCAA Gallery and the Coastal Arts Center is growing, especially on the Island. The selection of art and classes change regularly, so keep an eye on the websites and social media for updates.

The GCAA offers classes focusing on photography, water color, pastels, oil and acrylics, and pottery.

“We like to have all the different medians so we can share it with the community,” Bastin said.

Each canvas class comes with a full lesson and a complete painting.

“Participants can walk out with a canvas that they’ve done during the time of the class,” Bastin said. “We want them to have fun and enjoy the class. We don’t want to put any stress on them, so we usually pick something simple, unless someone has a special request. We try to accommodate everybody.”

The Coastal Arts Center specializes in glass blowing and molding clay. Established in 2009, the Coastal Arts Center’s Hot Shop is the only public access glass studio in Alabama. The shop offers glass blowing lessons, group demonstrations, field trips, public art exhibitions, glass fusing and lamp work.

The Hot Shop and Clay Studio offer different topics for participants on making different forms of glass and clay.

Shop for local art this holiday season or get out and spend an exciting art session with your family. There are many opportunities on the Island to show your creative taste or let your creativity show.

“When buying locally made art and gifts, one gets the satisfaction of knowing they are giving and getting something that is truly unique,” Cantrell said. “Not only does this benefit the artist, by allowing them to continue to produce and grow in their craft, but it helps keep funding stay local as well. An artist that is able to be sustainable through sales of their goods will be able to develop as a creator, and explore new ideas.”

Located next to the Alabama Credit Union Suite C, 24252 Canal Rd., Orange Beach, AL 36561 251-288 - 6166

Offering CrossFit and Fit Camp Classes For more information, please visit http://crossfitorangebeach.com GulfVisitorGuide.com

Where to create your own pieces of Enjoy making your own creations at a few of the beach’s local art galleries and studios. Whether you’re painting your own masterpiece or bonding with your family over a directed art project, the beach has many choices to offer when it comes to showing your creativity.

Where: Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach; 26389 Canal Rd., Orange Beach Contact: To schedule a class, call 251-981-2787 “We offer private and group classes in glass blowing and fusing, pottery wheel and hand building, as well as special workshops that include painting, photography, culinary arts, jewelry making and more,” said Jessica Jones, marketing director for Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach. Children can enjoy the after school arts program or summer art camps during the summer months.

MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY

Make Your Own Glass 9 a.m., $75 per person Includes 30 minute live glass-blowing demonstration of ornament, flower and paperweight by our resident artists. Then choose which one you would like to create yourself! Classes last up to 2.5 hours.

CANCELLATION POLICY: Class space is limited. We hold reservations with a credit card. If you do not attend, and we do not receive notice of cancellation from you by 4 p.m. the day prior to a class, you will be charged a fee of $75 per person. Call 251-981-ARTS (2787) to register.

Make Your Own Clay 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Glaze pottery - $20 per item and up; Hand building - $50 per hour; Throwing on the pottery wheel - $65 per hour.

Call 251-981-ARTS (2787) to register.

SECOND THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH

Adult Culinary Arts Classes Orange Beach Community Center; 27235 Canal Rd., Orange Beach. 6:30-8 p.m., $75 per person (includes all food and beverages) December 10 - Winter Whimsy. Register at CoastalArtsCenter.com.

Future Classes Offered at Coastal Arts Center: Mixed Media and Watercolor with Zack Baisden Two Day Workshop Orange Beach Community Center February dates to be announced , 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., $140 GulfVisitorGuide.com

Art

Participants should bring a sack lunch. Register online, payment due upon registration. Abstract and objective techniques will be taught. Students may choose to work with one technique or both. Principles and elements of art will be taught in mixed media, acrylic, and water color.

Varied techniques of each application will be presented.

One day of instruction will be spent on the technique of creating “skins”. Individual instruction will be provided for each student and his/her choice of technique(s).

Class atmosphere is laid back and creative. Register at CoastalArtsCenter.com.

Where: The Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Gallery ; 225 E 24th Ave, Gulf Shores Contact: To schedule a class, call 251-948-2627 or email gulfcoastartsalliance.com

MONDAY, TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY

Painting in Pastel with Tommy Vogel Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Art Gallery, 225 E. 24th Ave., Gulf Shores 10 a.m.-noon or 1-3 p.m.

Individual classes are $35, children and students $25 and groups of 3 or more, $25 each.

Tommy provides all materials and students complete a painting each class. Contact us at 251-948-2627 or visit www.gulfcoastartsalliance.com.

TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY

Adventures in Watercolor, Mary Lou Nicolai 10:00 a.m.-noon, Wednesdays, 12:30-2:30 p.m. $50 per class, all supplies included, a painting will be completed. GCAA Art Gallery, 225 East 24th Ave., Gulf Shores. To schedule, telephone 251-948-2627, or email gulfcoastartsalliance@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAY

Pottery, Wanda Price 10:00 a.m.-moon, $60.00 per class, all supplies included GCAA Art Gallery, 225 East 24th Ave., Gulf Shores To schedule, telephone 251-948-2627, or email gulfcoastartsalliance@gmail.com.

FRIDAY

Acrylic Painting with Maria Bastin Gulf Coast Arts Alliance Art Gallery, 225 E. 24th Ave., Gulf Shores 10 a.m. - noon , $35 All materials are included and students complete a painting in each class.

December 2015 • Beachin’ 9

Early Class Sign up for January 4–February 13: Register Early for the Six Week Courses offered by the GCAA Mondays January 4 – February 8 Beginning Acrylic Painting with Vanuel Robertson 10 a.m.-noon, $120 plus supply list Drawing with Oil Pencils with Heather Mitchell 1-3 p.m., $130 including supplies Tuesdays January 5-February 9 Mosaics with Carolyn Wagner 10 a.m.-2 p.m., $120 plus supply list Beginners Watercolors with Mary Lou Nicolai 1-3 p.m., $120 plus supply list Wednesdays January 6-February 10 Pastels with Tommy Vogel 10 a.m.-noon, $130 including supplies Thursdays January 7-February 11 Oils with Craig Reynolds 10 a.m.-noon, $120 plus supply list

Glass Fusing with Donna Davis 1-3 p.m. , $150 plus $60 supply fee Fridays January 8-February 12 Intermediate/Advanced Watercolors with Mary Lou Nicolai 1-3 p.m. , $120 plus supply list Refund Policy for Classes and Workshops: A $25 fee will be charged for all class refunds. Refunds, minus $25, will be given up to seven (7) days prior to class start date. Thereafter, no refunds will be given for classes. There is a $25 refund fee for all workshop cancellations. Workshop refunds, minus $25, will be given up to 14 days prior to the workshop start date.

Thereafter, no refunds will be given.Contact the Gulf Coast Arts Alliance at (251) 948-2627 to enroll or for more information.

Where: Christie’s Paint n’ Shop; 27267 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach Contact: To schedule a class, call 251-981-7770 Our painting sessions are a great way to add something fun and different to your day or nights out.

Bring the little ones, friends or that special someone to a family paint session!

Pottery with Anne Webb 10 a.m.-noon, $160 including supplies

Located in the Waterway Village District

Small place...

BIG TASTE

103 West C Canal an a na all D Drive, rive ri ve,, Gu ve Gulf lf S Shores, AL 251-948-0288 Like us on Facebook at ByWater Bistro

GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 10

Delight in the wonder of the holiday season during

The season’s celebrations include Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a classical Christmas concert, events at the Gulf State Park, ice skating, an arts and crafts show, the lighted boat parade and much more.

Christmas Parade December 4 Merry Market December 11-12 Lighted Boat Parade December 12

See the full schedule of events at

AlabamaCoastalChristmas.com

11 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

IN THE

AT THE WHARF THE WHARF’S 10TH ANNUAL NEW YEAR’S EVE STREET PARTY ICE RINK • MARLIN DROP • FIREWORKS • SPECTRA KIDS AREA • MILLER LITE BEER GARDEN • LIVE MUSIC JOIN US NOV. 23 - JAN. 10 FOR THE WHARF’S HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES: LIVE ANIMAL NATIVITY TRAIL & EXHIBIT • ICE RINK PHOTOS WITH SANTA • HORSE & CARRIAGE RIDES • HOLIDAY SPECTRA LAST-MINUTE CHRISTMAS EVE SHOPPING: DEC. 24TH (SHOPS STAY OPEN UNTIL 6PM)

VISIT ALWHARF.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION 12 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

Enjoy fine dining, casual southern flair and local seafood favorites.

Visit

alwharf.com for more information!

GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 13

Enjoy fine dining, casual southern flair and local seafood favorites.

Visit alwharf.com for more information!

The Wharf 4776 Main St., Suite 110 Orange Beach, AL 36561 • 251.224.5555 Visit us in Foley and New Orleans also!

14 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

Stay and play at The Wharf Marina and Condos – right in the middle of all the fun.

Visit alwharf.com for more information!

Christmas 2015 Fric’-n-Frac Tees!

The Fun Shop

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Tees • Tags • Hats & More Largest Selection of

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HOME OF THE FREE T-SHIRT! Fric-n-Frac.com • 251-224-2345 • 4751 Main St., Ste. 117 Orange Beach, AL 36561

Your Imagination Is Our Only Limitation!

Want to Reach More Tourists and Locals and Increase Your Sales?

Call our Beachin’ Media Consultant, Brad Day! With experience and skills in marketing consulting, Brad will work with business owners to grow their businesses.

Contact Brad today at 251 943-2151 or e-mail brad@gulfcoastmedia.com and enjoy your success!

GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 15

Sisters

Rum

by

By Destiny Brown

Jay Sowers Jay Sowers

Jay Sowers

Elizabeth Jones and Kelly O’Sullivan began drinking together more than 25 years ago.

Keeping true to their passion for rum, the duo opened the doors to Rum Sisters Gourmet Alcohol Infused Cakes in Gulf Shores last year.

The pair began their business adventure a few years ago when they were asked to invent a gift for all of the boat entries at a local fishing tournament.

“We baked a family recipe and did 75 rum cakes out of my house in two days,” said Elizabeth Jones, co-owner of Rum Sisters. “It had to be something they would remember. And within 10 minutes, it was crazy. People were coming back off the docks and asking us where we got the cake.”

The two realized they may have discovered a market for alcohol infused cakes.

When Kenny Chesney’s Flora Bama Jama took place in 2014, the duo were asked to design something with the singer’s signature Blue Chair Bay Rum. The Bushwhacker Rum Cake was born.

Now, they just needed a location for their cake creations to be made.

Luckily, they found a venue in Gulf Shores, which happened to be a previous bakery and had all of the equipment necessary for baking.

The two refurnished everything in the store and even repainted Kelly’s old bedroom dresser for décor.

“We wanted a place where people could come in and feel comfortable and relax,” Jones said. “Yes, you’re on the beach lifestyle, but this is for the locals to step away and be able to sit down and relax.”

Through word of mouth and Facebook, Rum Sisters shipped more than 500 cakes between Thanksgiving and Christmas last year.

GulfVisitorGuide.com

When the Spiced Rum and Raisin Carrot Cake was invented around the holidays, the pair realized they could expand their retail fronts to other locations. Neither had been in the food business before, so the idea was a new one.

“We believe you have to crawl before you walk,” Jones said. “We are taking it slow, but seriously. We can see where something of this nature could lead to other retail fronts, but we would hope to stay in the Gulf Coast area to open jobs in the community.”

For St. Patrick’s Day, the duo had time to play and developed their signature Irish whiskey and cream cake, also known as the ‘Big O.’ “It’s usually a one-shot thing and we have been so lucky,” said Kelly O’Sullivan, co-owner of Rum Sisters, of the pair’s recipe inventions. “We want something that grabs you and makes you want another bite.”

To taste their new flavors, Rum Sisters invite a group of professionals in for a VIP tasting. The group mainly consists of friends and different chefs in the area.

The bakery also added protein bars to the menu. They are gluten-free and have a variety of unique flavors like white chocolate chamberry, dates and pineapple, oatmeal chocolate raisin, and the favorite, blueberry lemon.

Rum Sisters have recently added new shipping options so that you can guarantee a moist, delicious cake to your loved ones for the holidays.

“Shipping was our biggest barrier,” O’Sullivan said. “To get these cakes which are so moist to your door. To get that, we’ve just added additional options for shopping which gets it there faster and cheaper.”

For more ordering information, visit rumsisters.com or visit the Rum Sisters at 2200 E. 2nd St., Suite J, Gulf Shores AL 36542 or call 251- 517-0444.

December 2015 • Beachin’ 17

THE

Christmas Lighted Boat Parade

Sails Through the Island The Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade has been a holiday favorite on the beach for 30 years. The event consists of 3040 holiday themed boats that are displayed in a sail from LuLu’s to Cobalts. Onlookers can observe the boat parade from a variety of canal or bayside locations, including The Wharf, LuLu’s or by setting up a lawn chair to get a good view.

Boats are decked out with holiday lights and Christmas music and will travel east down the Intracoastal Waterway Canal, pass The Wharf (public viewing area), around Bear Point, along the south end of Ono Island, west to Perdido Pass, north into Terry Cove Harbor, south to bridge, and end at Cobalt in Orange Beach.

“This a unique event because everywhere has lights displayed and parades, but we want to take advantage of something we have that all those other places might not and that’s the great bodies of water we are surrounded by,” said Owen Corcoran, special events manager for the Alabama Coastal Chamber of Commerce. “The fishing and

Mark Robinson

boating industry is such a huge part of our area and this is another way to celebrate it.”

The estimated time of completion is 8 p.m. After the parade, the event isn’t over just yet.

“The parade ends at Cobalt’s, but the fun doesn’t stop” Corcoran said. “There will be an after party held there and the various awards will be given out.”

The parade is a featured event in the Chamber’s Coast Christmas initiative, but is a joint effort between the Chamber, both cities, the local marinas and charter boat captains.

To enter your boat in the parade, please visit alabamacoastalchristmas.com. There will be a mandatory captain’s meeting 5:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 11 at LuLu’s. Don’t have a boat? Charter boats are available to host your group. This makes for a great office or company holiday party. Call 251-9812300 for more information. If you have any questions, please email Owen Corcoran at owen@mygulfcoastchamber.com.

Mark Robinson

Mark Robinson

Mark Robinson

Mark Robinson

For an exciting lunch or dinner you just can’t beat.

Come Empty. Leave Full...and hopefully Have a Laugh or two!

Open 10:30 am-til Daily 2981 S. McKenzie • Foley, AL 36535 251-943-7655 • www.throwedrolls.com GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 19

ADVERTISEMENT

Anthony Jones ... Well Worth A Visit!

Voted The Best Salon in Baldwin County in 2014

It was a beau�ful summer morning when we le� Fairhope, low humidity and not a cloud in the sky. We were on our way down to Orange Beach to check out a business that many of our friends have told us about, this Englishman who had opened a Hair Salon on the beach with his daughter Emma. My hair is very important to me and ge�ng a good haircut is a must, and that is what Anthony Jones is known for and excellent hair color to boot.

We have both been very dissa�sfied with the last few a�empts on designing our hair to suit our lifestyles; most of the so called stylists did not take into considera�on our age or understand that we both want to look great without a lot of fuss and bother.

The traffic was a bit heavy due to the summer visitors, but we arrived on �me to this charming yellow and white beach house on the beach road with a fabulous view of the Gulf of Mexico. We were greeted warmly by Anthony and Emma and they ask us if we would like a cold drink or a glass of wine before he started making us beau�ful.

Pam, my friend, went first since I was a li�le chicken a�er the last experiences.

Anthony directed her to a styling chair and went on to explain the ten most important rules in designing a custom hairstyle to suit her. He first looked at her face shape and explained that there are five face shapes out there and told her her face shape was oval. The next was bone structure and head shape, a�er that was the type of her hair, the texture of her hair, then what sort of condi�on her hair was in, followed by the way the hair grows out of the head, plus cow licks, then her likes and dislikes and fashion. Wow! What a lot of things to get right.

So then Emma started with a relaxing shampoo and deep condi�oning, then for the next 30 minutes Anthony’s hands were a sea of mo�on, lastly a quick blow dry with hardly any fuss and presto she was finished! She was so happy and she could not believe the difference in her hair.

20 Beachin • December 2015

Now it was my turn, my hair especially in the summer gets very frizzy and dry; I have tried everything out there for my hair with no success! Anthony explained that commercial hair products are made different to professional hair products.

Commercial shampoos are made of mild detergent and the condi�oners are based on petroleum oil. Where professional hair products are pure and natural and give back to the hair, he also went on to say that we should all wash our hair every day and condi�on our hair the same.

Anthony explained that at all �mes our hair has to have at least 8% moisture in it the same as our skin, we should treat our hair the same way as we treat our skin, by moisturizing it every day which made a lot of sense to me, since the last stylist told me not to wash my hair every day because in her mind it would dry it out. Anthony explained to me that yes using some drug store products would dry your hair out if washed daily. A�er we went through the ten rules, he took me to the shampoo area and treated me to the best shampoo and condi�oning my hair had ever had.

While shampooing, Emma explained to me what I should do in the morning in the shower, again stressing no over-thecounter hair products, that’s why my hair is dry and frizzy.

A�er shampooing and before condi�oning, towel blot the hair because the hair is porous like a sponge, pu�ng any condi�oner on one’s hair when it is full of water will not go into the hair itself, so blot it first then apply the product and leave it in while you are washing yourself. Then before you leave the shower, rinse and count up to 10 slowly and stop, just rinse the excess and no more.

A�er she explained to me the hows & whys, I understood.

They are like hair doctors, if we listen and do what they says it works!

Anthony has his own line of products and everything he used on me was his and believe me the stuff works. The cut he gave me was wonderful; I walked out a new woman and so did Pam, no more frizzes! Oh, by the way he used a great product before he dried my hair called “POTION.” It is a gel with a lot of healing features with body, fabulous! I bought a bo�le. Best money we ever spent and yes, we are definitely going back. He is a true professional.

Well worth a visit!

Anthony’s salon is at 23175 Perdido Beach Boulevard in Orange Beach & their phone number is 251.974.1514.

Please say we sent you! www.anthonyjonesinc.net GulfVisitorGuide.com

month at the beach Annabella Harris and Abbie Bosch show their artwork for the Foley A to Z project by Foley Elementary (Allison Woodham.)

Chef J.B. Lancey of Wolf Bay simmers some shrimp at the 2014 Oyster Cook-off at The Hangout (John Mullen.)

Jackie Brannon as Santa with Lochlan Muratet gets a head start on Christmas (John Mullen) Katherine Woerner gets her photo taken with Santa at the Coastal Christmas kick off at Gulf State Park (Mark Robinson)

Shawna P. and Curtis Lance perform at The Flora Bama (C-Shelz photogrpahy.)

Neal Lunsford displays his artwork at the GCAA Art Market in Waterway Village.

GulfVisitorGuide.com

SUBMIT YOUR OWN MONTH AT THE BEACH PHOTOS TO DESTINY@GULFCOASTMEDIA.COM. December 2015 • Beachin’ 21

What to do at the beach

TRIVIA

Foley Moe’s Original Bar B Que Thursdays at 7 p.m.

Orange Beach Tacky Jacks Wednesday at 6 p.m.

BINGO

Foley American Legion Post 99 Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Moe’s Original Bar B Que Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Gulf Shores American Legion Post 44 Monday at 6 p.m.

Tacky Jacks Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Orange Beach Flora-Bama Weekdays from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Tacky Jacks Wednesday at 6 p.m.

TUESDAY, DEC. 1 ORANGE BEACH TREE LIGHTING AT THE WHARF Marlin Circle; 4830 Main St., Orange Beach 5:30–7 p.m., Join us for an evening of caroling, performances by local youth artists, Christmas medleys from Gulf Shores Chorale and Brass Bands, the annual reading of the Christmas story, hot chocolate, write and send your letter to Santa, decorate cookies from Cosmo’s.

The evening culminates with the lighting of the Christmas tree and a visit from a very special guest, Santa Claus, who spends time with all the little ones who want to share their Christmas wishes.

251-981-6629, www. alabamacoastalchristmas.com FRIDAY, DEC. 4 GULF SHORES LIGHTED CHRISTMAS PARADE & BEACH CELEBRATION Starting at Clubhouse Drive and Alabama 59 6:30 p.m., Gulf Shores will kick off its holiday festivities with the Lighted Christmas Parade and Beach Celebration. The evening parade will feature festive lighted floats, celebrity judges, as well as appearances from holiday characters and marching bands. Large crowds of spectators looking to bask in the holiday spirit are anticipated along Highway 59 as parade entries make their way from Clubhouse Drive to the Gulf Shores Public Beach. The magical atmosphere from the parade will roll continuously into the night as a celebration at the Gulf Shores Public Beach will kick off immediately following the parade. Families can enjoy pictures with Santa, holiday treats, crafts and much more. Call 251-968-1173 for more info.

GulfVisitorGuide.com

CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK Heritage Park, Highway 59, Foley 6 p.m., Free, Come out and hear carols, sip hot cocoa, enjoy the lighting of the Christmas Tree, and visit with Santa. Free cocoa and snack for all.

Linda Hula 251-943-1300 MOBILE YOUTH SYMPHONY HOLIDAY CONCERT Foley Civic Center 7:30 p.m., Holiday favorites performed by a full symphony orchestra comprised of young musicians.Suggested donation $5. www.VisitFoley.org SATURDAY, DEC. 5 LET IT SNOW Heritage Park, Foley, 11 a.m.

Bring your mittens to Heritage Park at 11:00 am directly following the Christmas Parade. You will hear live musical performances, listen to Mrs. Claus tell stories, make arts and crafts in the Children’s Art village, and of course, play in the SNOW! Concessions are sold on site. Call 251-9431300 for more information.

56TH ANNUAL FOLEY CHRISTMAS PARADE, ORGANIZED BY THE FOLEY KIWANIS CLUB DOWNTOWN FOLEY 10-11 a.m., The 56th Annual Foley Kiwanis Club’s Christmas Parade is 10 a.m. Saturday, December 5th! The Official Christmas Parade Rules and Guidelines as well as The Official Parade Route and Parade Lineup Map will soon be available for download and printing. We look forward to bringing this exciting event to our area children! For more information, visitwww.foleykiwanisclub.com and fill out the contact us form. We will respond to you as soon as possible.

SWIFT-COLES HISTORIC CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE Swift-Coles Historic Home, 17424 Swift-Coles Lane, Bon Secour 10 a.m.-3 p.m., $15 Christmas carolers and good old-fashioned food.

SUNDAY, DEC. 6 CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION AT THE BALDWIN COUNTY HERITAGE MUSEUM Baldwin County Heritage Museum; 25521 Hwy. 98, Elberta 5-7 p.m., Admission is free. Donation of $10 each for Angel Memory Tree You are cordially invited to a Christmas Celebration at the Baldwin County Heritage Museum on Sunday Dec. 6, 2015 from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Please join us for our Christmas Tree display as we celebrate the many different cultures that helped shape Baldwin County.

During this Celebration we will also host the Angel Memory Tree and lighting with entertainment and light refreshments. This tree is filled with tributes in memory or in honor of friends, family and loved ones. For a donation of $10 each, an Angel will be named and placed on the tree for the one you want to remember or honor. (251) 986-8375.

December 2015 • Beachin’ 22

What to do at the beach

MONDAY, DEC. 7 BALDWIN POPS CHRISTMAS CONCERT Foley Civic Center, 7 p.m.

The Baldwin Pops present an evening of holiday classics. Free admission.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots. www.VisitFoley.org or https://www.facebook.com/VisitFoley

and expo is open to the public. Door prizes, food vendors, unique gifts, fine arts, arts & crafts, jewelry, clothes and much more! It’s a great place to view the Boat Parade on Saturday night!

Merry Market is produced by the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber and the City of Orange Beach as part of the Coastal Christmas Campaign.

251-968-7200

THURSDAY, DEC. 10 COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CHORUS Erie H. Meyer Civic Center, 7 p.m.

Gulf Shores continues its holiday celebration at the Erie H. Meyer Civic Center as local choirs present A Community Christmas Chorus. This free performance is a ticketed show inside the Erie H. Meyer Civic Center.

Free tickets for the show are be available online or at the City Store box office on a first come, first serve basis. The box office is located at 1821 Gulf Shores Parkway and office hours are Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.06 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

SATURDAY, DEC. 12 SANTA DROP AT FLORA-BAMA 17401 Perdido Key Drive 10 a.m. - noon, Bring the family and kids to see Santa drop from an airplane and land safely on the beautiful white sandy beaches behind Flora-Bama!

Food, delicious treats, pictures with Santa and tons of fun activities for the kids immediately following.

850-492-0611, www.florabama.com/events/flora-bama-santa-drop

FRIDAY, DEC. 11 AND SATURDAY, DEC. 12 4TH ANNUAL MERRY MARKET Orange Beach Events Center at The Wharf; 4671 Wharf Pkwy, Orange Beach, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Unique Gifts and Arts & Crafts Expo presented by Windcreek Casino and Hotel at the Orange Beach Events Center at the Wharf. Admission is Free

LUCY BUFFETT’S LULU’S PRESENTS BILLY CLAUS AND THE LULUBELLES LuLu’s; 200 E. 25th Ave., Gulf Shores 2-5 p.m., The Annual Billy Claus and the LuLuBelles will make their visit to the beach. Always arriving in style, Billy will make his appearance around 2 p.m., so be sure to bring the whole family for a day of fun! In case you’re wondering, Billy is Santa’s younger, warm weather-loving brother who is allergic to snow. Billy spends his time in the Caribbean while helping his busy brother collect toy lists from all the good boys and girls. We’ll have

TANGER T A OUTLETS - FOLEY 2601 S MCKENZIE STREET FOLEY, ALABAMA 251-943-5557 2 55 557 7•W WWW W .B ..BIGDOGS. B COM

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23 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

What to do at the beach arts and crafts, a letter station for kids to write letters for Billy to deliver to Santa, photos with Billy and the LuLuBelles! Also, a real treat prior to Billy’s arrival, come gather around and enjoy the story of Billy Claus and the Spirit of Christmas, written and read aloud by Ms. Lucy Buffett!

251-967-LULU, www.lulubuffett.com

for overall male, overall female, overall wheelchair, master male, master female, grand master male, grand master female, senior grand master male and senior grand master female runner and walkers. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Innerarity Point and Orange Beach Fire.

(251) 236-1765, www.florabama.com

30TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LIGHTED BOAT PARADE LuLu’s to Cobalt 5:30 – 8 p.m., The 30th Annual Christmas Lighted Boat Parade will be held on Saturday, December 12th at 5:30 p.m. beginning at LuLu’s Homeport Marina. The parade will travel east down the Intracoastal Waterway Canal, past The Wharf (public viewing area), around Bear Point, along the south end of Ono Island, west to Perdido Pass, north into Terry Cove Harbor, south to bridge, and end at Cobalt Restaurant in Orange Beach.

251-981-2300

FRIDAY, DEC. 25 FLORA-BAMA CHRISTMAS POTLUCK 17401 Perdido Key DrivePensacola, FL, 32507 1–3 p.m., Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, Christmas is a time for family and friends to gather and celebrate. The Flora-Bama wants you on the line to eat, drink, and be merry for its traditional Potluck Dinner.

The turkey and ham will be prepared and ready to go by Flora-Bama.

Patrons are encourage to bring a covered dish to share, because that’s what Christmas is all about. Live music will be playing all around the bar to add even more Christmas cheer! (850) 492-0611 www.florabama.com/events/flora-bama-christmas-potluck

TUESDAY, DEC. 15 BALDWIN POPS BAND CONCERT Erie Meyer Civic Center; 1930 W. 2nd St., Gulf Shores 7 p.m.-12 a.m., The Baldwin Pops Band, conducted by Dr. Roger Jones, will present a holiday concert at 7 p.m. Tu. Dec. 15 at Gulf Shores Civic Center. This concert is sponsored by the City of Gulf Shores, Special Events. In addition, the Baldwin Pops Band is sponsored by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts. More information on the Baldwin Pops Band can be found on their website, by searching for Baldwin Pops Band on Facebook, or by calling 251-987-5757. All concerts are free.

251-987-5757, www.baldwinpopsband.com THURSDAY, DEC. 17 1ST ANNUAL DISTINGUISHED LECTURE SERIES PRESENTS “HURRICANES IN THE GULF OF MEXICO” Gulf Shores Cultural Arts Center; 19470 Oak Rd W., Gulf Shores 6 p.m.-12 a.m., The University of South Alabama Gulf Coast Campus is pleased to present our 1st annual “Distinguished Lecture Series”. The University of South Alabama Distinguished Lecture Series brings public speakers of the highest calibre from the worlds of academia, business, the arts and civil society to our Gulf Coast campus to share their thoughts and ideas.

The lecture will be held on Th. Dec. 17 at 6 p.m. at the Gulf Shores Cultural Center, located at 19470 Oak Rd. W. (CR 6), Gulf Shores.

Dr. Sytske K. Kimball and Dr. Keith Blackwell, Professors of Meteorology, The University of South Alabama will speak on “Hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico”. The Distinguished Lecture Series are free and open to the public.

(251) 968-9860, www.southalabama.edu/gulfcoast SATURDAY, DEC. 19 2015 MAKE IT TO THE LINE 4 MILE RUN WALK & 1 MILE FUN RUN Flora Bama; 17401 Perdido Key Dr., Perdido Key 10 a.m.-12 a.m. , Every year after all of the Christmas festivities are over, we help take some of those extra pounds off. Run, jog, walk or crawl to the line at our 4-mile run/walk and 1-mile fun run. Individuals and families up to three members can compete. Participants will receive run packets that include t-shirts and other goodies. Trophies will be awarded three deep for all age groups in both the run and the walk. Special awards will be given GulfVisitorGuide.com

THURSDAY, DEC. 31 NOON YEAR’S EVE AT LULU’S 200 E. 25th Ave.Gulf Shores, AL, 36542 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Think your year couldn’t possibly get any better, just wait and see what LuLu’s has in store to help you end the year with a bang.

LuLu’s Annual Noon Year’s Eve party is pure excitement around every corner. Starting at 10 a.m. on Th. Dec. 31 the delicious food, sandcastle building contest, arts and crafts, live kid friendly music, zoo animals, face painting... WOW!! I could just go on and on but wait there is one thing I forgot to mention... To count it down to NOON we celebrate with kidfriendly fireworks and a HUGE beach ball drop. Make sure you don’t miss this incredible event. See you there!!!

(251) 967-5858, www.lulubuffett.com FLORA-BAMA’S NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar; 17401 Perdido Key DrivePensacola, FL, 32507 7 p.m.-12 a.m., Pricing: $40 in advance up to December 30th. $45 at the door or gift shop on December 31st for ages 21 & up.$55 at the door for ages 18-20. $10 at the door for ages 18-20 who purchased an advance ticket at $40.

The Flora-Bama really gets down on New Year’s Eve. Blow it all out before making those pesky resolutions. Live music on all three stages will be rocking’ until the party stops. Food, party favors and champagne flow all night and bring in the New Year the Flora-Bama way. You won’t regret it!

Ticket Includes: Free food from 7pm until, free breakfast sandwiches out of the gift shop bar starting at 12:30am, free champagne, party favors and live music on three stages.

Food: Royal Reds, Shrimp Alfredo, Jambalaya, Fish Bites, Chicken Tenders, Chicken Salad Sandwiches, Quarter Burgers, Grilled Veggies, Sweet Potato Fries, Dinner Rolls, Dessert - Cheesecake Slices, & Dessert Bites.

PHONE: (850) 492-0611 WEBSITE: www.florabama.com/events/flora-bama-new-years-eve-bash NEW YEARS EVE PARTY AT PERDIDO BEACH RESORT Perdido Beach Resort; Perdido Beach Resort, 27200 Perdido Beach Blvd.

Orange Beach, AL, 36561December 2015 • Beachin’ 24

What to do at the beach ON GOING

7 p.m.-12 a.m., $95.00 plus tax and gratuity Celebrate 2016 with a fabulous dinner, a New Year’s Eve party you won’t want to miss featuring live music by Band Camp, unique pyrotechnics, a champagne toast at midnight and much more! Don’t wait it out in the cold, ring in the new year at Perdido Beach Resort, it’s a party you’ll talk about until 2017. Check out our Getaway Packages for special deals on your New Year’s Eve party stay, call reservations at 800-634-8001 for further information. For reservations in our ballroom or Voyagers call our concierge at 251-981-9811 extension 103.

800-634-8001, perdidobeachresort.com

DEC. 4-6 AND DEC. 11-13 A CHRISTMAS CAROL 2022 West 2nd Street, Gulf Shores 7:30 p.m. – 12 a.m., Adults $18 Students $15 December 4, 5, 11 & 12 @ 7:30 pm.

December 6 & 13 (Sunday) @ 2:00 pm By suggesting famous Christmas carols, this talented author incorporates appropriate music for the re-telling of this classic story. You’ll meet all the great characters: Christmases Past, Present, and Future, Tiny Tim, Bob Cratchit, and, of course, Ebenezer Scrooge! This is an inspiring musical that captures the essence of the great tale, and of the meaning of Christmas. (251) 968-6721, www.sbct.biz

FRIDAY, JAN. 1 5TH ANNUAL SLIP & SLIDE POLAR BEAR DIP Gulf Shores Public Beach at The Hangout noon, Participants can wash their worries away by sliding into the Gulf of Mexico via a 33-foot slip and slide, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club, The Hangout and the city of Gulf Shores; post-dip party at The Hangout with food and live music

DEC. 1, 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23.

PHOTOS WITH SANTA AT THE WHARF The Wharf in Orange Beach; 4830 Main St., Orange Beach, Friday 4-9 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5- p.m.; Sunday noon4 p.m., $15, alwharf.com/ event.php?cn=3141

FLORA-BAMA POLAR BEAR DIP Flora-Bama Lounge noon, Off with the old and in with the new with a plunge in the Gulf of Mexico at high noon; participants may enjoy a traditional New Year’s meal of black-eyed peas, cornbread, ham and more

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Cobb Pinnacle 14

3780 Gulf Shores Parkway | Gulf Shores, AL Hwy. 59 just North of the Canal Bridge 251.923.0100 | www.CobbTheatres.com 25 Beachin • December 2015

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What to do at the beach DEC. 3, DEC. 5 AND DEC. 6 COASTAL CHORALE CHRISTMAS SHOW Foley Civic Center Dec 3 and 5 at 7 p.m.; Dec. 6 at 3 p.m.

Christmas favorites presented by talented vocalists from across Baldwin County and beyond. Foley Civic Center. Tickets available at the door or online at www.coastal-chorale.com/tickets.html.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAYS THROUGH CHRISTMAS SAIL WITH SANTA ON WILD HEARTS Perdido Beach Resort’s dock on Cotton Bayou across from the resort, Orange Beach 10-11:30 a.m., 12-1:30 p.m. and 2-3:30 p.m. (Saturdays); 1-2 p.m. and 2:30-3:30 p.m. (Sundays) $25 for adults, $15 for children and free for children 2 and under Sail with Santa and his elves aboard a 53-foot catamaran for cookies, eggnog and photos with Saint Nick SailWildHearts.com, 251-981-6700 THROUGH DEC. 10 SHOP SMALL. SHOP LOCAL. Local businesses throughout the area Coastal Alabama Business Chamber’s initiative encouraging local holiday shopping; shoppers may pick up a “passport” from the chamber (3150 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores) or participating businesses in which they will be entered into prize drawings by making purchases at a certain percentage of retailers; passports must be turned in to the chamber no later than Dec. 10, and prize winners will be named at the Merry Market Preview Party that night from 5-7 p.m. at the Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf; patrons may receive additional entries into the drawing for posting selfies on the chamber’s Facebook page at participating stores.

AlabamaCoastalChristmas.com, 251-968-6091 THROUGH DEC. 21 TRIM-A-TREE Tanger Outlets, Foley

Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sponsored by the Arts Center. Buy locally made, handcrafted arts and crafts items for Christmas Gifts.

For more information, call 251-943-4381.

THROUGH DEC. 27 HORSE & CARRIAGE RIDES The Wharf in Orange Beach; 4830 Main St., Orange Beach Mon-Fri 3-10 p.m.; Sat and Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m. $10 per person, Come to the Wharf and enjoy an exciting horse and carriage ride to make your Christmas celebration complete. Bring the family or come as a couple and make great Christmas memories as you stroll around the Wharf and see the beautiful lights and Christmas decorations, alwharf.com/event.php?cn=3142 THROUGH DEC. 31 COASTAL CHRISTMAS 2015 All day every day Celebrate the season with music, a lighted boat parade, holiday shopping and more all over the island! alabamacoastalchristmas.com THROUGH JAN.10 ICE SKATING The Wharf, Mon-Fri 3-10 p.m.; Sat and Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m. $10 for skating, $13 for skating and ferris wheel.

For more information, call 251-223-1000 LIVE ANIMAL NATIVITY TRAIL AND EXHIBIT The Wharf in Orange Beach; 4830 Main St., Orange Beach Mon-Fri 3-10 p.m.; Weekend 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Entry: $5 Petting Zoo: Free Horse & Pony Ride: $5 Camel Nativity Ride: $10 The newest addition to Winter at The Wharf this year is the Live Animal Nativity Trail and Exhibit. Enjoy the Live Nativity Scene by foot, by car or by camel. alwharf.com/event.php?cn=3173

I’VE GOT NEWS FOR YOU THIS CHRISTMAS!

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251-943-2151 and ask for our subscription department.

December 2015 • Beachin’ 26

live local music KARAOKE

Foley American Legion Post 99 Friday at 7 p.m., Sunday at 6 p.m.

Gelato Joe’s Monday at 7 p.m.

Good Time Charlie’s Tuesday at 10 p.m.

The Office Lounge Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Ft. Morgan Behind The Pines Wednesday at 8 p.m.

Tacky Jacks Thursday and Saturday at 9 p.m.

Gulf Shores Pink Pony Pub every night at 7 p.m.

Tacky Jacks Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.

Mudbugs Thu, Fri and Sat at 8 p.m.

Orange Beach Island Times Daiquiri Bar Saturday at 8 p.m.

Happy Harbor on the Line Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Tacky Jacks Thursday at 6 p.m.

Undertow Wed - Fri at 9:30 p.m.

OPEN MIC

Foley American Legion Post 99 Friday and Sunday at 6 p.m Moe’s Original Bar B Que Tuesday at 7 p.m.

The Office Lounge Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Gulf Shores Tacky Jacks Wednesday at 5:30 p.m.

27 Beachin • December 2015

Orange Beach Ginny Lanes Monday at 6 p.m.

Happy Harbor the Mothership Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Live Bait Monday at 8 p.m.

Perdido Key Flora-Bama Monday at 6 p.m.

TUESDAY, DEC. 1

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Nikki Talley Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 2

Gulf Shores Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

THURSDAY, DEC. 3

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Adam Holt Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Logan Spicer

FRIDAY, DEC. 4

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Them Again Gulf Shores LuLu’s Grits N Pieces Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Orange Beach Our Cigar Bar Ed Lee

SATURDAY, DEC. 5

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Nikki Talley Nolan’s Midnight Confessions

Looking for some live music?

The Gulf Coast has plenty to offer in music and entertainment. This monthly guide will lead you to hot spots for karaoke, open mic, live music and more. Email Destiny Brown to update or add listings at destiny@gulfcoastmedia.com.

Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Our Cigar Bar Ed Lee

SUNDAY, DEC. 6

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Everything Changes Gulf Shores LuLu’s Greg Brown Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Cosmo’s Brittany Bell Silverhill Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Edward David Anderson, Grayson Capps, Gove Scrivenor, Kevin Dansig, Corky Hughes, Anthony Crawford

MONDAY, DEC. 7

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Brent Burns Nolan’s Lisa Zanghi Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

TUESDAY, DEC. 8

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Jimmy Lumpkin Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 9

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Lefty Collins Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

THURSDAY, DEC. 10

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Jimmy Lee Hannaford / Rock Bottom Trio Gulf Shores LuLu’s Adam Holt Nolan’s Midnight Confessions

FRIDAY, DEC. 11

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Tyler Champion Christmas Show Gulf Shores LuLu’s JERI Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Logan Spicer Orange Beach Our Cigar Bar Ed Lee The Hot Spot Shawna P. Trio

SATURDAY, DEC. 12

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Honeyboy and Boots Gulf Shores LuLu’s Grits N Pieces Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Our Cigar Bar Ed Lee

SUNDAY, DEC. 13

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Lisa Zanghi Gulf Shores LuLu’s Cadillac Attack Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Cosmo’s Brittany Bell Silverhill GulfVisitorGuide.com

Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Edward David Anderson, Grayson Capps, Gove Scrivenor, Kevin Dansig, Corky Hughes, Anthony Crawford

LuLu’s Grits N Piece Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Logan Spicer Orange Beach Our Cigar Bar Ed Lee

LuLu’s Jimmy Lumpkin Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

Capps, Gove Scrivenor, Kevin Dansig, Corky Hughes, Anthony Crawford

MONDAY, DEC. 14

SATURDAY, DEC. 19

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 23

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Lefty Collins Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Brent Burns Nolan’s Lisa Zanghi Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Brent Burns Nolan’s Lisa Zanghi Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

TUESDAY, DEC. 15

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Ronnie Presley Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 16

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Karl +1 Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

THURSDAY, DEC. 17

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Adam Holt Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Logan Spicer

FRIDAY, DEC. 18

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Gretsch Lyles and The Modern Eldorados Windmill Market Lisa Mills Gulf Shores

GulfVisitorGuide.com

Fairhope Windmill Market Blind Dog Mike Gulf Shores Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Lefty Collins Orange Beach Our Cigar Bar Ed Lee

SUNDAY, DEC. 20

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Greg Brown Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Cosmo’s Brittany Bell Silverhill Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Edward David Anderson, Grayson Capps, Gove Scrivenor, Kevin Dansig, Corky Hughes, Anthony Crawford

MONDAY, DEC. 21

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Brent Burns Nolan’s Lisa Zanghi Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

TUESDAY, DEC. 22

THURSDAY, DEC. 24

Gulf Shores Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Logan Spicer

SATURDAY, DEC. 26

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Karl +1 Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Our Cigar Bar Ed Lee

SUNDAY, DEC. 27

Fairhope Old 27 Grill Lisa Zanghi Gulf Shores LuLu’s Cadillac Attack Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Johnny B. Orange Beach Cobalt Coffee, Black Cosmo’s Brittany Bell Silverhill Frog Pond at Blue Moon Farm Edward David Anderson, Grayson

MONDAY, DEC. 28

TUESDAY, DEC. 29

Gulf Shores LuLu’s Ronnie Presley Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 30

Gulf Shores LuLu’s JERI Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Mark and Smokey

THURSDAY, DEC. 31

Gulf Shores Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Logan Spicer

FRIDAY, JAN. 1

Gulf Shores Nolan’s Midnight Confessions Papa Rocco’s Logan Spicer Orange Beach Our Cigar Bar Ed Lee

Gulf Shores

December 2015 • Beachin’ 28

251-981-6979 (City Hall) (Mon.-Fri. 8am-5pm)

251-980-INFO (City Infoline) 251-981-SURF Daily Beach Report www.cityoforangebeach.com www.ospreycamera.com

which is being seen daily around the world

Frequently Asked Questions

1) Tents (no larger than a 10x10 ft.) are allowed on the beach, but they have to be placed behind (North of) the designated sign marker post and should be removed before night. Tents cannot be placed between the sign post and the Gulf of Mexico. This is for designated emergency and safety access.

2) Pets are not allowed on the beach on the Gulf of Mexico or surrounding islands (Robinson, Bird, Walker). However they are allowed at the designated city Dog Park on Canal Rd. (Hwy 180) next to Sportsman Marina. All dogs should remain on a leash within the city limits.

3) Glass in any form (bottle, cup, container, etc.) is strictly prohibited on our beaches and islands.

4) A yellow or green flag posted along gulf beaches means to use caution while swimming in the gulf waters and is permitted.

A red flag means danger and one should not swim in the waters.

Double red flags mean that swimming in the waters is prohibited by law.

Purple means WARNING! A jellyfish or other marine threat.

5) All trails and parks are free and open from daylight to dusk 7 days a week.

6) Fires or flames are strictly prohibited on the beach. This includes grills, tiki-torches, lanterns, open fire pits, candles, fireworks, etc.

7) Jet skis, boats, and any other motorized vessels, are prohibited from launching along the gulf front beaches.

29 Beachin • December 2015

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December 2015 • Beachin’ 30

31 Beachin • December 2015

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Coastal Arts Center

Campus Hours: M-F 9am – 4pm

of Orange Beach

CoastalArtsCenter.com • 26389 Canal Rd. • Orange Beach, AL 251-981-ARTS (2787)

Hot Shop Blowout December 17 5-7pm

Hot Christmas gifts, hot chocolate & hot glass!

See us at

Merry Market December 11 - 12!

FREE EVENT Glass & Clay Artist Demonstrations Make-Your-Own classes

One of a kind gift shopping!

Custom glass and clay creations from our own artists.

Our gift shop offers original artwork, jewelry, sculpture, note cards & more!

GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 32

SailSanta WITH

The crew at Wild Hearts Sail in Orange Beach invite all to come Sail with Santa aboard his 53-foot catamaran.

The Saturday and Sunday sails include holiday fun for the the whole family.

Santa and his elves will be visiting with passengers during the sail. All of the Christmas favorites like cookies, egg nog and candy canes will be served while sailing the beautiful waters of Orange Beach. There will be bottled

water and soft drinks available.

St. Nick will be taking photos with the kids for an unforgettable Christmas picture. A professional photographer will be onboard to capture your holiday memories.

For more information, visit sailwildhearts.com. Space is limited and reservations are required. To make a reservation, call 251-981-6700.

DEPARTURE TIMES: BE ON THE DOCK 30 MINUTES BEFORE SAIL TIME TO CHECK IN! SATURDAY: 10-11 A.M. • NOON-1:30 P.M. • 2-3:30 P.M. SUNDAY: 1-2 P.M. • 2:30-3:30 P.M. SATURDAY AND SUNDAYS THROUGH CHRISTMAS SAIL WITH SANTA ON WILD HEARTS 33 Beachin • December 2015

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Reel Fishing, Reel Fun.

Trips from $65/person 251.981.FISH 800.806.7889

w w w. r e e l s u r p r i s e c h a r t e r s . c o m GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 34

Assembly of God

ASSEMBLY OFCHURCH GOD CHRISTIAN LIFE

Christian Life the 25550 Canal Rd, Island Orange Church Beach 25550 Canal967-4840 Rd., Orange Beach www.christianlifechurch.tv 251-967-4840 www.christianlifechurch.tv GULFWAY CHURCH 541 Cotton Creek Dr. (Co. Rd. 4), Gulf Gulfway Church Shores 541 Cotton Creek Dr. (Co. Rd. 4), 968-6858 Gulf Shores www.gulfwaychurch.com 251-968-6858 www.gulfwaychurch.com Baptist FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF BAPTIST GULF SHORES First 2200 Baptist Church GulfShores Shores West First St.,ofGulf 2200 W. 1st968-7369 St., Gulf Shores 251-968-7369 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF BEACH First BaptistORANGE Church of Orange Beach 4773 BayCircle, Circle,Orange Orange Beach 4773 Bay Beach 981-4288 251-981-4288 www.firstbaptistorangebeach.com www.firstbaptistorangebeach.com FISHERMEN BAPTIST CHURCH Fisherman 17101 RiverBaptist Rd., BonChurch Secour 17101 River949-6387 Rd., Bon Secour 251-949-6387 www.fomm.org www.fomm.org FRIENDSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH 7159 County Baptist Rd. 10, Bon Secour Friendship Church 7159 County949-6486 Rd. 10, Bon Secour 251-949-6486 ISLAND FELLOWSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH Island Fellowship Baptist Church 28290 Canal Rd, Orange Beach

28290 Canal Rd., Orange Beach 980-1005 251-980-1005 LAGOON BAPTIST CHURCH

Lagoon Baptist Church 17867 State Hwy 180 W., Gulf Shores 17867 State Highway 180 W., Gulf Shores 968-7057 251-968-7057 www.lagoonbc.com www.lagoonbc.com OYSTER BAY BAPTIST CHURCH, SBC 4280 Rd., Gulf Shores Oyster BayPlash Baptist Church, SBC 4280 Plash968-7805 Rd., Gulf Shores www.oysterbaybaptist.org 251-968-7805 www.oysterbaybaptist.org ROMAR BEACH BAPTIST CHURCH

23370 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach Romar Beach Baptist Church 981-8959 23370 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach www.romarbeach.org

251-981-8959 SHELLwww.romarbeach.org BANKS BAPTIST CHURCH 12125 State Hwy 180, Gulf Shores Shell Banks540-7136 Baptist Church

12125 State Highway 180, Gulf Shores 251-540-7136 GulfVisitorGuide.com

Catholic CATHOLIC OUR LADY OF THE GULF Our LadyCATHOLIC of the GulfCHURCH Catholic Church 308 22nd Shores 308E. East 22ndAve., Ave, Gulf Gulf Shores 251-968-7062 968-7062 www.ourladyofthegulfal.org www.ourladyofthegulfal.org ST. THOMAS-BY-THE-SEA 26547 Perdido Beach By Blvd., St. Thomas TheOrange Sea Beach 981-8132 26547 Perdido Beach Blvd., Orange Beach www.stthomasbythesea.org 251-981-8132 www.stthomasbythesea.org Church of Christ CHURCH OF CHRIST OF

CHURCH OF CHRIST GULF SHORES

Church of 1st Christ GulfShores Shores 2414 W. St, Gulf 2414 W. 1st St., Gulf Shores 968-7769 www.gulfshoreschurchofchrist.org 251-968-7769 www.gulfshoreschurchofchrist.org Episcopal HOLY SPIRIT EPISCOPAL CHURCH EPISCOPAL 616 Morgan Rd, GulfChurch Shores HolyFort Spirit Episcopal 968-5988 616 Fort Morgan Rd., Gulf Shores www.holyspiritepiscopalgulfshores.com 251-968-5988 www.holyspiritepiscopalgulfshores.com ST. PETER’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 6270 Bon Secour Hwy, Bon Secour St. Peter’s949-6254 Episcopal Church

6270 Bon Secour Highway, Bon Secour 251-949-6254 Greek Orthodox ST. ATHANASIOS GREEK ORTHODOX CHAPEL GREEK ORTHODOX 220 E. 20th Ave, Orthodox Gulf ShoresChapel St. Athanasios Greek 220 E. 20th967-2020 Ave., Gulf Shores stathanasios.al.goarch.org 251-967-2020 stathanasios.al.goarch.org Lutheran GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH-ELCA

LUTHERAN 491 West 23rd Ave, Gulf Shores

Grace Lutheran Church-ELCA 968-5991 491 W. 23rd Ave., Gulf Shores 251-968-5991 PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH 8250 Roscoe Rd., Gulf Shores Peace Lutheran 974-2545 Church

8250 Roscoe Rd., Gulf Shores ST. JUDE’S 251-974-2545

BY THE SEA LUTHERAN CHURCH 312By E. 16th ShoresChurch St. Jude’s The Ave, Sea Gulf Lutheran 968-5833 312 E. 16th Ave., Gulf Shores 251-968-5833 Methodist - United GULF SHORES UNITED METHODIST - UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Gulf1900 Shores United Methodist Church Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores 1900 Gulf Shores Pkwy., Gulf Shores 968-2411 251-968-2411 www.gulfshoresumc.org www.gulfshoresumc.org

MORGAN’S CHAPEL UNITED Morgan’s CHURCH Chapel METHODIST United Methodist Church Hwy 10, across from Swift School, Bon Secour Highway 10, across from Swift School, Bon 949-7400 Secour 251-949-7400 ORANGE BEACH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 28751 Canal Rd., Orange Beach Church Orange Beach United Methodist 981-6751 28751 Canal Rd., Orange Beach www.orangebeachumc.org 251-981-6751 www.orangebeachumc.org Non-Denominational NON-DENOMINATIONAL IGLESIA CASA DE LUZ

Christian Service Center Companerismo Cristiano Programs: Emergency Aid, Food Pantry, 225 E. 24th Ave, Gulf Shores Ozanam Charitable 948-3467 Pharmacy and Meals on Wheels DolphinHOUSE Ave., Gulf SAFE317 HARBOR OFShores PRAYER 251-968-5256 Multi-Culture Full Gospel 7320 Bonwww.cscgs.com Secour Hwy, Bon Secour 223-3615

Iglesia Casa De Luz ST.Companerismo ANDREW BY THE SEA, Cristiano A COMMUNITY CHURCH 225 E. 24th Ave., Gulf Shores 17263 Ft. 251-948-3467 Morgan Rd, Gulf Shores 968-3900 www.standrewbythesea.org

Safe Harbor House of Prayer Multi-Culture Full Gospel Presbyterian 7320PRESBYTERIAN Bon Secour Highway, Bon Secour FIRST CHURCH (USA) 251-223-3615 OF GULF SHORES 309 East 21st Ave., Gulf Shores St. Andrew

By The Sea, 968-7720 www.gspres.com A Community Church

17263 Fort Morgan Rd., Gulf Shores GRACE251-968-3900 FELLOWSHIP PCA 19470 Co. Rd. 6, Gulf Shores www.standrewbythesea.org 968-5302 www.gracefellowship-pca.com

PRESBYTERIAN

First Presbyterian Church (USA) ORANGE BEACH of Gulf Shores PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 309 21stRd, Ave., GulfBeach Shores 26640E.Canal Orange 251-968-7720 981-4220 www.gspres.com www.orangebeachpresbyterian.org Orange BeachSERVICE Presbyterian Church CHRISTIAN CENTER

PROGRAMS: Emergency Aid, FoodBeach Pantry, 26640 Canal Rd., Orange Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy and 251-981-4220 Meals on Wheels. www.orangebeachpresbyterian.org 317 Dolphin Ave., Gulf Shores 968-5256 www.cscgs.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 35

hooked on fishin’ with Phil Dortch

It was Monday morning. School was out, and my Dad had just worked off a crazy shift work week. Remember those days? Shift work. . . 3-11, 11-7, 7-3. Those were the crazy work hours which rotated from week to week.

How would anyone ever be able to sleep? Anyway, it was one of those days when as a kid, I was filled with excitement because as soon as Dad got home, we would load the car with a lunch, ball of heavy string, a big wash tub and a burlap Croaker sack. We would make one stop at Delchamps to buy a pack of chicken necks or backs (the older the better) then head to Daphne on the eastern shore of Baldwin County to spend a wonderful summer day crabbing on one of the old wooden piers that stretched far out into Mobile Bay. Upon arrival, I would collect some rocks to use as weights. Dad would cut the proper length of string, tie on a stinky piece of chicken and a rock, let it down in the water and tie it off to the pier. After putting out 10 to 15 of this high tech fishing tackle, we wait.

After a while, it was time to check the lines. With great anticipation, I would kneel down and ever so slowly and pull up on the string inch by inch, hoping there would be a big blue crab holding onto the bait. Somebody run grab the long handle net; we got one.

This process would go on for hours until our wash tub was full of beautiful blue crabs. They were foaming at the mouth, claws locking onto each other making all sorts of weird noises. We would occasionally dip the burlap sack in the water and keep it spread over the crabs to keep them cool. After a long day, upon arriving back home, my Mom would boil a big pot of water which Dad would then pour over the crabs. My job was to keep them knocked back in the tub with a long stick. You don’t want one of those critters to grab a toe with its powerful claws.

Then the real work started. Picking out the sweet white meat. Those were some great memories of days gone by, but not really gone forever. We now have better piers and nice nets to use. All of this was done off what we call a pier.

Not everyone has a boat, the weather on the Gulf Coast is not always suitable to go out fishing, but regardless of the circumstances, unless a Hurricane is coming, anyone can fish off a pier. Most of the old wooden piers from my childhood are either gone from storms or are private.

But thanks to Fairhope and Gulf Shores, we now have beautiful, long, concrete piers for the public to enjoy.

Now days, I mostly fish out of my boat, but I spent the last few days observing life on piers. One of my favorite things to watch as a kid was the old timers, which I now am one myself, throw big cast nets catching mullet.

Now as an adult, after years of practice and following the guidance of many of the old experts, I to can successfully throw a net. This is an important skill if you like smoked or fried mullet since they won’t bite a hook.

It’s also a preferred way to catch live bait for big fishing.

And this is best done off a pier.

As I have often written, it is important to keep a fishing log from year to year because there is a seasonal pattern to fish activity. For instance, last week, which was the middle of October, I observed most everyone on the Gulf State pier catching huge two- to three-pound bull croaker. They were there spawning that week before the full moon.

On Oct. 12 large schools of tarpon were reported traveling east back toward Florida. During late October and November, the big black roe mullet are moving from the bay into the Gulf to lay their eggs. Also, the flounder

are moving out of the Bay, traveling around Fort Morgan into the Gulf.

From January into May is the best time to catch sheepshead around the piers. Keeping a good log from year to year is invaluable.

Tackle and Bait The type tackle you use for pier fishing depends on

your target catch. In general, a medium spinning reel with 30-pound test mono and a medium strength rod is sufficient, unless you hook a big shark, tarpon or king mackerel. Common courtesy is expected when someone hooks a big one and needs to move quickly. Everyone must work together.

Braid is not allowed on some piers since it will easily cut your neighbors line.

If a large fish is caught, there are two ways to land it if it’s too large to wind in with your reel. Option one, which is usually used to landing king mackerel, is a grappling type hook on a long rope to basically gaff the fish. The other option, used for catches like bull redfish which don’t have the sharp teeth like shark or mackerel is a large ring/hoop net to lower allowing the fish to be caught. Sharks are not allowed to be brought onto some piers so be aware of the rules.

All types of tackle are used along with a variety of ways

open all year

to rig. It obviously depends what your target fish will be.

For example, when fishing for king mackerel, artificial lures like Rapala X-rap could be used. Also frozen cigar minnows, using a freeline method with no weight works well. Live bait under a large cork or balloon is another option.

If fishing straight down besides the piling for fish like flounder or sheepshead, use an appropriate size weight depending on the waves and current. For sheepshead, use fiddler crabs, fresh or live shrimp, ghost shrimp or oysters cut into small pieces.

If you don’t catch anything that day, take your shrimp and oysters home and cook them for supper.

Bull redfish can be caught on cut mullet, live or dead pogies (otherwise known as menhaden,) crab or artificial bait.

Some piers, like the Gulf State Park pier, have a very nice fish cleaning station. Respect the area and leave it clean.

Pier fishing is a great past time, especially if you’re prone to sea sickness or teaching a kid fishing 101. If you’re a rookie, just observe what the old timers are doing.

Happy pier fishin’ and remember to take a kid fishing.

Create memories that will last long after you’re gone.

For any additional discussion please call Capt. Phil 251223-3682 or Email islandwestcharters@yahoo.com or see www. islandsestcharters.com.

9am - 5pm

Fresh fruit, seasonal vegetables and other local items!

Support local farmers in continuing to grow fresh fruits and vegetables and give farmers coon confidence onf onfidence dden to to spread ppr add their t iir production. pprodu production produc od t oon.

LCocoaasttedal aFdjisacheenrtmans thaend Farmers Market 37 Beachin • December 2015

20733 Miflin Road, Foley 36535 • 251.971.3276 GulfVisitorGuide.com

Capt. Mark asks

‘Who’s on the Island?’

Whitney Echols, Jr. was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. It’s a beautiful city where the giant water oak trees lined the streets. The city is often referred to as the Druid City which was nicknamed after an ancient Celtic people who worshipped the huge Druid oaks.

Whitney’s dad was in Real Estate, and his mom worked for First Mortgage Company. He has one sister, Sara, nine years his junior. His dad had 12 brothers and sisters so he had lots of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A family reunion was a big event.

Anyone growing up in Tuscaloosa was automatically an Alabama fan. As Whitney said, “I was a fan with my first breath.”

Looking around his condo, one would never have to ask. Alabama reigns supreme from the University flags to the photos and mementos on display inside to the big Alabama “A” on his T shirt.

Whitney loves football, but says he particularly appreciates the building of character of so many of the young athletes that are involved in varsity sports. He believes in so many circumstances they grow up to become better citizens because of the training and discipline they had on the field, or on the court.

During WWII, Whitney’s uncles all got drafted, but his dad wasn’t. His dad wanted to help the war effort, so he packed up his family, moved to Mobile, and got a job including training as a B-29 engine repair person at Brookley Field. There was so much going on at the time in the Mobile area, the only place they could find to live was a garage apartment on Bienville Street.

Due to the nature of Mobile’s war effort, there were air raid warnings and drills regularly throughout the city.

After the war, they moved back to Tuscaloosa where Whitney went to school. He was active in the Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and became an Eagle Scout when he was 12. After graduating high school, Whitney, not knowing what to do, told his dad he was GulfVisitorGuide.com

going to join the Marines. His dad told him to go talk to his Uncle Joe, an Army major, at Fort McPherson, Ga., for advice.

His dad hoped his uncle would talk him out of joining the Marines. After Whitney and his uncle talked, his uncle called his dad, and told him he’d talked Whitney out of the Marines, but now he was going to join the army and be a paratrooper.Whitney joined the army in 1958.

He spent time in Fort Jackson, S.C.; Fort. Gordon, Ga.; and then went to Ft Bragg, N.C. to Jump School, and from there to Okinawa. He made jumps on the Island, in the Philippines, and into Korea. He also was on alert to go to Lebanon if needed.

Returning to the States, he finished his commitment to the Army, and applied, went to, and graduated from the University of Alabama. While there he served as the Commander of the US Army ROTC brigade. The day he graduated from Alabama, he was back in the Army on active duty with a Regular Army commission as Second Lieutenant.

With his diploma and his Commission in his hand, he hopped in his car, and headed for Fort Lewis, Wash. He was assigned as Infantry Platoon Leader with B Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry (Red Warriors). Whitney was one of the “boots on the ground.”

In July of 1966, Whitney and the Red Warriors were sent to Vietnam. They trained and fought as a fine tuned unit. As tough as it was there, there was camaraderie, there was teamwork, there was respect and there was a brotherhood. Whitney was assigned to an area in the central highlands where he received a purple heart when wounded by mortar fire.

It was a hotbed of action, and, in telling me about it, he pauses.

You can tell he’s remembering friends and comrades that never made it home. Between tours, Whitney went to flight training school at Fort Stewart, Ga., and Fort Rucker where he learned to fly fixed wing multi-engine planes.

In 1969, during his second tour to Vietnam, he flew twin engine Beechcraft reconnaissance aircraft for the Army Security Agency out of Saigon. They would intercept radio signals and could triangulate to spot and report the targets on the ground. Returning to the States, he was assigned to Fort Benning, Ga., where he attended the Infantry Officer Advanced Course.

From 1971 until 1974 he was assigned and taught Army ROTC at University of Alabama, then from there to the Commander General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. His last assignment before retirement was being the Department of the Army Representative to the Federal Aviation Administration in Atlanta. His territory of responsibility was for eight southeastern states, Central America and Puerto Rico. His office was located in the FAA headquarters in Atlanta.

In 1982, the Joint Special Operations Command was formed at Fort Bragg, NC., and Whitney’s experience was needed.

After making a comprehensive study where it involved, among other things, opening, or closing, specific airports for “training” involving all branches of the military, Whitney presented the facts to the Pentagon, and was able to secure the mission for airspace management worldwide for JSOC. This also involved hostage, and hijack training, and various other military exercises. Whitney was responsible for all airspace management prior to and during the Grenada invasion. Whitney served with distinction for 28 years retiring as a Lt. Colonel.

He now is a member of the 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Red Warrior Association, Vietnam 1966-70 where there are about 800 members that served and fought together during the Vietnam War. He is extremely proud of the fact that he was elected President by the men he served with in the Red Warriors. He has served as President for six years and it is a position that is very dear to his heart as symbolic of the respect his fellow solders felt December 2015 • Beachin’ 38

toward him.

Whitney says it was one of the greatest honors he’s ever had.

Among other things, the Red Warriors send members to visit wounded warriors in hospitals around the country, and they recently collected more than $12,000 for the Red Warriors when they deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq to help support families that had special needs, or just needed help.

After leaving the Army, he retired in Atlanta. Deciding Atlanta wasn’t where he wanted to be, and after going through a divorce, he informed his two daughters he was moving to the beach. He had been to the Island many times during his career, and he wanted to come back.

His daughters, Mary and Melinda, were working. Mary lives in Birmingham, married and has one daughter, Allison with an Honors Scholarship to the University of Alabama.

In 1973, Mary’s family lost their seven year old daughter, Lesley, to brain cancer. This was a horrible experience for the entire family. Melinda, living in Woodbury Minn., is married and has two children, Bain and Anna Kate. They loved the idea of him moving to the beach but told him to expect company. They also love the beach.

In 1990, while having Thanksgiving lunch at the Perdido Beach Resort he ran into some friends from Tuscaloosa. They told him about Cotton Creek Golf Club needing help, and he went over, and

ending up working there for the next three years. While there, he was offered, and accepted the job as installation manager for a carpet company. It wasn’t what he wanted to do, so after a short period of employment, he gave that up.

Now, on Thursdays he meets with Bama Breakfast Bunch at Hazel’s for coffee and conversation, and he’s an active member of the Lion’s Club in Orange Beach.

He also has to come up with a trail that no one can answer to help collect money for the Lions. In 2015, Whitney was chosen as Lion Club Member Of The Year. The Lions projects are local, and their big fund raisers are to help raise money to help people with sight problems.

Whitney’s big love these days is Orange Beach and of course Alabama football. If it’s game day, he’d be watching it somewhere.

Above all else, Whitney is a loveable, jolly, full belly laugh kind of guy that is not afraid to get involved. If you need help, he’ll be there for you. If he sees something that isn’t right, he’ll speak up, and be active to make it right. He’s not a put his hands in his pockets and turn away.

He sizes up a situation, then jumps in with both feet. We, as should all Americans, thank Whitney for his service to our Country. Orange Beach is fortunate to have Whitney as part of their community, and I’m proud to be able to call him my friend.

$8.7 Bucket5s of Beer day Saturday/Sunecial Game Day Sp pot at The Hot S 9 .9 10 Wings $74.99 50 Wings $3

Home of the THIN CUT CATFISH

GAME AME DAY SPECIALS P I Largest TV for Game Days on the Island!

160’ BIG SCREEN

DAILY LUNCH SPECIAL MONDAY-FRIDAY FOR $6.99

(Choose One) Country Fried Steak - Hamburger Steak - Shredded Roast Beef and Gravy - Meatloaf - Baked Chicken - Grilled Pork Chops (Choose Two) Mashed Potatoes and Gravy - Corn on the Cobb - Green Beans Slaw - French Fries - New Potatoes

251-271-0552

No other discounts with specials. Buckets on select types of beer.

GulfVisitorGuide.com

4780 wharf parkway 101 Orange Beach, Al 36561 December 2015 • Beachin’ 39

Dining

Guide

featuring:

Bobby Graves of The Hot Spot at The Wharf

In this issue: Lulu’s Desoto’s Restaurant Fish River Grill Gulf Shores Steamer Tacky Jacks Papa Roccos Original Oyster House Bill’s by the beach

40 Beachin • December 2015

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December 2015 • Beachin’ 41

42 Beachin • December 2015

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Tacky Jacks Mexican Garbage Nachos

Shrimp PoBoy

Peel & Eat Shrimp

Gator Bites

Firecracker Shrimp Po Boy

Crawfish PoBoy

Crawfish Tails

Crab Claws

Flaky Fish PoBoy

Chicken PoBoy

Crisp Luau Pork Bites Buffalo Wings

Chicken Strips Smoked Tuna Dip

Philly Cheese Steak

“Tacky Shrimp”

Oyster Platter

Firecracker Shrimp

Shrimp & Grits

Shrimp Tacos

Grilled Mahi Mahi Crab Cake Dinner

Shrimp & Cheese Grits

Steamed Royal Reds

Shrimp Platters

Fried Seafood Tri o Platter

Steamed Royal Reds

Ribeye Steak Platter & Combo Platter

Seafood Salad’ Taco Salad

Fish Tacos

Jacks Half Pound Hand Pattied

Flaky Fish Platter Ahi Tuna Platter

Grilled Tuna Samich

Chicken and Shrimp Wraps

Fried Pickles Fried Green Tomato

Shrimp Platter

Oyster Po Boy

Famous Tacky Jacks Farmer’s Omelet Build Your Own Omelet

Shrimp Omelet

Seared Tuna Salad

Hash & Eggs

Sunrise Egg Platter

Jacks House Salad

Steak & Egg Platter

Breakfast Sandwich

Traditional Caesar Salad

GulfVisitorGuide.com

Shrimp & CheeseGrits

Breakfast Burritos

December 2015 • Beachin’ 43

za! z of i rger” e P u B m y s o y u d H o d Beer, L ho’s Your Da to.” m r a W “W ing Toma e h t g n i Featur and the “Fly

& r a B r e t s y O izzeria P

Orders To Go: CALL 251-948-7262 or 251-948-6529 Highway 59, Gulf Shores 1/2 Mi. North of the Beach • Live Entertainment 7 nights a week NEVER A COVER CHARGE! • Full Menu until Midnight • Lunch Specials Daily M-F 11-2 • Happy Hour 11-7 Mon.-Fri.

• Appetizers • Steamed Seafood • Award-winning Pizza Specialty Pizzas • Pasta • Oysters: Suck ‘em down RAW on the Half Shell or

Steam ‘em up with a ‘lil drawn butter & lemon • Award-Winning Oyster Specialties: • Hot Shucks Cajun • Baked • Alfredo • Rockyfeller • Parmesan • Fiesta

www.paparocco.com

Visit our website for our current nightly music line up!

44 Beachin • December 2015

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GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 45

14” LARGE

14” LARGE

14” LARGE

$15.25 ...............$18.25

★ Consuming raw or undercooked Animal Proteins (meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of Foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.

Shrimp Pizza • All Meat Pizza • Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Spinach Alfredo Pizza • Chicken Club Pizza • Buffalo Chicken Pizza

10” SMALL

(Mushrooms, green peppers, onions, black & green olives, tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese)

Vegetarian Style...................................$10.95 ...............................................$14.95

(Artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, onion, feta cheese, mozzarella & pesto)

Artichoke, Sun-dried Tomato................$16.25 ...............................................$19.25

(Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, shrimp, scallops, mushrooms, onions & broccoli)

Seafood Primavera Pizza.....................$16.25 ................................................$19.25

(Whole slice tomato, bacon, feta, onion and pesto)

Flying Tomato......................................$16.95 ...............................................$19.95

10” SMALL

Papa’s Specialty Pizza

Add Shrimp:........................................$ 2.75 ..................................................$3.75

(Pepperoni, onions, sausage, green peppers, mushrooms, beef, ham, black & green olives)

Price Buster Pizza..............................$12.95 .................................................$16.96

(Pepperoni, onions, sausage, green peppers, mushrooms)

Papa Delux Pizza................................$10.95.................................................$14.95

Pepperoni, sausage, onions, green peppers, mushrooms, beef, black or green olive, ham, hot pepper rings, anchovies, extra cheese, fresh tomatoes, bacon, sauerkraut, Canadian Bacon, pineapple, French and ranch dressing.

Our Great Cheese Pizza........................$6.95 ...................................................$9.95 Each Item.............................................$1.30...................................................$1.65

10” SMALL

Papa’s Pizza

Snow Crab (1.5 lb.) ........................................................................................$23.50 Royal Reds (1 lb. seasonal)........................................................................... $18.75 Combo Reds & Crabs (2 lbs) .........................................................................$25.50

SERVED WITH GARLIC BREAD AND COLESLAW

Papa’s Steamed Specials

Caesar Salad..................................Side $5.95 Dinner ..........................$6.95 add Chicken $1.95 add Shrimp $2.95 Spinach Artichoke Dip ......................................................................................$8.75 Stuffed Mushrooms (3) ....................................................................................$8.95 Oysters Picard (3).............................................................................................$9.95 Garlic Bread (2) $2.75..........Cheese Bread (2) $3.50 ..... Add Marinara Sauce $.75 Boil Shrimp Small (6oz.) $8.25 Large (12 oz.) $13.75 Papa’s Wings With Ranch Dressing (6) $6.50.....................(12) $9.50(25) $16.75 Potato Skins (Choose any three toppings) ......................................................$9.95 Combo Platter: 3 Wings, 2 Stuffed Mushrooms, 3 Skins ................................ $11.50 Nachos -- Best In Town Round 1: Cheese ..............................................................................................$5.95 Round 2: Chili & Cheese ..................................................................................$7.95 Round 3: Chili, Cheese, Black Olives, Onions & Green Pepper..........................$8.95

Rocco’s Appetizers

Italian Garden Salad ........................................................................................$4.75

for complete menu details

www.paparocco.com

Cajun Oysters (Whooee!)

Oysters Alfredo Oysters Fiesta

* TO GO ORDERS WELCOME *

Hot Shucks (The Heat is On) Baked Oysters Oysters Rockyfeller Oyster Parmesan

★ Oyster Specialties ★

Oysters

All oysters @ market price Suck em down RAW on the Half Shell..............1/2 doz or dozen Steam em up w/a lil drawn butter & lemon.....1/2 doz or dozen

add Meatballs ............................$1.50 add Sausage ............................. $1.50 add Meatballs & Sausage ..........$3.00

Served With Garlic Bread Seafood Pasta .............................. $13.95 Fettuccine Alfredo.................... $8.95 Baked Ravioli ............................... $11.95 Chicken Alfredo ..................... $11.95 Manicotti ...................................... $11.95 Shrimp Alfredo ...................... $13.95 substitute Alfredo Sauce .... $2.00 Lasagna (Papa’s Favorite) ..... $12.95 Italian Combo Dinner.................... $14.75 Spaghetti................................. $7.95

Mama’s Italian Specialties

Papa’s Specialties

Who’s Your Daddy Burger! Try it we DARE YOU! ............................................. $15.95 Rocky’s Knock Out Burger........ $8.95 Ultimate Chicken Sandwich ............ $9.95 Add Bacon .................................1.00 Grilled Chicken Sandwich ............... $8.95 Add Bleu Cheese Crumbles ........ 75¢ Reuben ......................................... $10.25 Alpine Burger.......................... $ 9.95 Hot Dog .......................................... $4.25 Patty Melt ............................. $ 10.95 Coney Island Chili Dog.................... $5.95 Meatball Sandwich ................. $ 8.95 Baked French Onion Sou ................ $6.50 Italian Sausage Sandwich....... $ 8.95 Bowl Chili ....................................... $5.50 French Dip .............................. $ 8.95 Baked Chili ..................................... $6.75 Philly Cheese Steak ................ $ 9.95 BLT .................................................$6.25 Papa’s Prime Steak Sandwich $11.95

CHECK OUT OUR WINTER MENU

10 Items Under $10!!!

Voted Top Ten Seafood Restaurant In USA

By Coastal Living

“The Best Steamed Seafood Available” SINCE 1989 www.GulfShoresSteamer.com

Located at 27267 Perdido Beach Blvd. #115, Orange Beach, AL in SanRoc Cay

251.948.6344 Closed on Wednesday 46 Beachin • December 2015

GETTIN’ STEAMED GulfVisitorGuide.com

’t o ur er n T O m o D get ut tea ! r O S se Fo k res di n ec h Sho cha C lf er u M G

251.948.6344

27267 Perdido Beach Blvd. #115, Orange Beach, AL in SanRoc Cay www.GulfShoresSteamer.com

Appetizer Selection

*Steamed Oysters, *Raw Oysters Seafood Gumbo, Crawfish Corn Chowder or Spicy Cajun Jambalaya Steamed Royal Red Shrimp Fresh Steamed Mussels Smoked Tuna or Shrimp Dip Blue Crab Claws Crab Cakes • Shrimp Skewer

Salads Shrimp Salad • Cobb Salad

Sandwiches

Served with chips and all the fixin’s *Hot & Juicy Hamburger *Tuna Sandwich Chicken Sandwich Hot Dog Grilled PoBoy’s *Steak Sandwich Crab Delight Grilled Cheese

Land Lover’s

Served with corn, potato and cole slaw *Filet Mignon *Ribeye Steak Grilled Chicken Garden Steamer

Gettin’ Steamed Platters

“VOTED BEST VALUE” All Platters & Combos Are Served with corn, Potato and Cole Slaw Bay Steamer Ocean Steamer Small Steamer

Crawling Combos Royal Red Shrimp Alaskan Snow Crab Shrimp & Crab Combo *Shrimp & Oysters The Crab Bowl “Bucket O’ Reds”

Fresh Fish Selection

Served with corn, potato and cole slaw Extra For Blackened Seasoning Red Fish, Mahi-Mahi, Tilapia, Whitefish or Our Fresh Catch *Yellowfin Tuna Crab Cakes Stuffed Fish

The “Little Shrimp” Selection Served with Chips 4 Oz. Burger • Hot Dog Grilled Chicken Fingers Grilled Cheese • (2)PB & J

Desserts

Key Lime Pie French Silk Chocolate Pie New York Style Cheesecake

A la Carte

Shrimp Skewer Snow Crab Cluster Lobster Tail

Sides

Cole Slaw, Corn or New Potatoes Cauliflower or Broccoli

Beverages

Coke, Diet Coke, Dr. Pepper, Sprite, Vault, Lemonade, Iced Tea

Wines

By The Glass, By The Bottle, Premium Bottle

Merlot, White Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Cabernet, Pinot Grigio

Beer

Domestic Bottle Premium Bottle Domestic Draft By The Glass Premium Draft By The Glass Domestic Pitcher Premium Pitcher

Frozen Daiquiri

Strawberry, Pina Colada, Banana, Peach, Tequila sunrise, Margarita, Amaretto Orange Blossom, (Non-Alcoholic Daiquiri)

*All Prices Are Subject To Change Without Notice Due to Market and Availability* We Serve Our Food Hot & Fresh, So Please Allow Time For A Quality Product

Consumer Information: consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish or eggs may increase your risk of illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions, such as chronic illness of the liver or blood, or have immune disorders.

*Cooked To Order Items are Identified by Asterisks.

GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 47

W Aw in ar ni d ng D il Daily Lunch Specials

includes Swamp

& Dessert

py p HaouAr M M-6P 1 1 H Y

Soup

Mon. thru Fri.

A RY D LL BAR S U E F PRIC CH T S BE E BEA H ON T

EVE

“HOME OF THE ORIGINAL”

Fish River Grill #3

Fish River Grill #2

(Next to Rouses)

(Foley Plaza on Hwy. 59)

251.948.1110

251.952.FISH (3474)

GULF SHORES 1545 Gulf Shores Pkwy.

FOLEY 608 S. McKenzie

Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Gulf Shores Later Hours Spring & Summer 48 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

W Aw in ar ni d ng 1545 Gulf Shores Parkway • Gulf Shores, Alabama abama (Next to Rouses)

OMG! SHRIMP FEAST POBOY!!!

CHOSEN IN TOP “100 DISHES TO EAT IN ALABAMA BEFORE YOU DIE” GRILLED or FRIED AUTHENTIC SOUTHERN COOKED SEAFOOD PLATTERS

(Served w/ Fries, Coleslaw, Hushpuppies, Fried Okra, Tartar or Cocktail Sauce & Swamp Soup) Bayou Seafood Platter - Fried Gator, Frog Legs, Shrimp, Oyster, Catfish Seafood Platter - Fried Shrimp, Oyster, Catfish Cajun ls Golden Fried Catfish Platter - (U.S. Raised) to Crawrefi’sshNoPthising Fried Select Oyster Platter The ! m ‘E e Lik Fried Shrimp Platter - (Approx. 14-15) Fried Gator Platter

RAW OYS T BAR ER

VOTED BEST BURGERS IN BALDWIN COUNTY

Hurricane Burger • Hillbilly Melt • River Burger • Shroooom Burger • Swamp Burger Bleu Cheese Bacon Burger

REDNECK REUBEN • ALABAMA CHICKEN MELT PoBoys • Chicken • Shrimp • Oysters • Gator • Frog Legs Crawfish Pistols • Catfish • Whitefish • Stuffed Crab

***Cajun Crawfish Pistols Dinner (2) w/ Fries & Slaw*** OMG! Shrimp Feast Po-Boy • Seafood BLT

APPETIZERS ~ SALADS ~ POBOYS & SANDWICHES ~ KIDS MENU DON’T FORGET YOUR SWEET THANG

“Sweet Thang” Signature Dessert! Redneck version of a New Orleans Beignet & Granny’s Apple and Peach Cobbler Rolled in Powdered Sugar. Mmmmm...this “thang” is SOOOOOO good!

BEST BAR PRICES ON THE COAST ~ SWAMP JUICE ~ STUMPWACKER DIXIE DARLIN’ ~ MARDI GRAS MARGARITA

608 S. McKenzie Street • (Foley Plaza on Hwy. 59) Foley, Alabama

251.952.FISH (3474)

1545 Gulf Shores Pkwy (Next to Rouses) Gulf Shores, Alabama

251.948.1110

Hours: Monday - Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. • Gulf Shores Later Hours Spring & Summer GulfVisitorGuide.com

December 2015 • Beachin’ 49

www.Desotosseafoodkitchen.com

Voted “People’s Choice” •Best Lunch • Best Dinner • Best Seafood

Since

also been voted

• Friendliest Staff

A ” t-visit res s u m “ f Sho l u G in while

Daily Lunch Specials Fresh Steamed, Grilled, Blackened, Fried, Baked and Sautéed Seafood

Award-winning Fish and Shimp Specialties Casual Family Atmosphere Reasonable Prices Senior Menu Available, from 3pm - 5:30pm ill be We w Close1d-25 Dec. f2or tions a v o n Re

Seafood Kitchen

138 West 1st Ave • Gulf Shores, AL • 251-948-7294 50 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

138 West 1st Ave Gulf Shores, AL

251-948-7294

www.Desotosseafoodkitchen.com

Seafood Kitchen

SALA SA LAD LA D SALADS Dressings: Honey-Mustard, Ranch, Bleu

Lunch Lunc Lu nch h Me Menu

HOME-STYLE LUNCH SPECIALS

(Served with your choice of two side dishes) Saturday & Sunday - Add $1.00

Fried Shrimp - tail less Blackened Catfish Fried Catfish Broiled Flounder Fried Flounder Grilled Chicken Chicken Creole Fried Chicken Tenders Country Fried Steak Hamburger Steak Pork Chops Country Ham Vegetable Plate SANDWICHES

7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99 7.99

(Served with french fries)

Complimentary Ice Tea and Bread Served with All Dine in Lunch Entrees.

Add House or Substitute Salad for side dish 1.99 Po-Boy Sandwich 10.99 Cheeseburger 7.99 Crab Cake Po-Boy 11.99 *Monte Cristo Sandwich 8.99

STARTERS Oysters on the Half Shell 1/2 dozen 8.99................1 dozen 16.99 Southern Style Crab Cakes 12.99 Shrimp Remoulade 8.99 Crab, Spinach & Artichoke Dip 9.99 Coconut Shrimp 8.99 Stuffed Mushrooms 8.99 Alligator Bites 8.99 Fried Crab Claws 1/2 lb........17.99 1 lb........29.99 Tuna Dip 9.99 Sweet Potato French Fry Basket 9.99 Fried Green Tomatoes 6.99 GUMBO & SOUP Seafood Gumbo cup....4.75 bowl....6.49 Crab & Shrimp Bisque cup....5.25 bowl....7.99 FRIED SEAFOOD FAVORITES (Served with your choice of two side dishes)

GulfVisitorGuide.com

Riviera Salad 7.25 - with pecan chicken tenders 9.99 - with chicken tenders 8.99 - with boiled shrimp 9.99 - with grilled or blackened chicken 8.99 Caesar Salad 7.25 - w/grilled or blackened chicken 8.99 - w/boiled shrimp 9.99 Gumbo & Salad - a cup of Seafood Gumbo and our 7.99 Bisque & Salad 8.50 SEAFOOD FAVORITES (Served with your choice of two side dishes)

Add House or Caesar Salad Substitute Salad for side dish Fried Butterfly Shrimp Fried Oysters Fried Crab Claws *Coconut Shrimp Grilled Shrimp Fried Seafood Platter

3.25 1.99 11.99 14.99 16.99 12.99 11.99 15.99

SEAFOOD PLATTERS

Dinner Menu

Butterfly Shrimp Tail-less Shrimp Bon Secour Oysters Crab Claws Fried Fish of the Day Shrimp & Flounder Shrimp & Oysters Fried Catfish

Cheese, Italian, Thousand Island, French, Low-Fat Ranch, Raspberry Vinaigrette, Balsamic Vinegar, Balsamic Vinaigrette, Sesame Asian, Oil & Vinegar

16.99 14.99 18.99 20.99 17.99 17.99 18.99 15.99

(Served with your choice of two side dishes)

Shrimp Lover’s Platter Fried Seafood Platter Broiled Seafood Platter Creole Platter Caribbean Platter Crab Platter SEAFOOD SPECIALTIES

17.99 18.99 16.99 18.99 18.99 23.99

Stuffed Shrimp Shrimp Scampi Blackened Catfish Coconut Shrimp Grilled Shrimp Shrimp Creole Crawfish Etoufee Crab Cake Dinner STEAMED SEAFOOD

17.99 18.99 17.99 16.99 17.99 17.99 17.99 17.99

(Served with your choice of two side dishes)

(Served with new potatoes & one side)

Snow Crab Legs - 2 lbs.

29.99 Royal Red Shrimp - 1 lb.

28.99 Combo - 1/2 pound Royal Reds & 1 pound Snow Crab 27.99 TONIGHT’S CATCH (Served with your choice of two side dishes) Choose from the following preparation styles:

Fried Catch Blackened Catch Grilled Catch Broiled Catch

17.99 17.99 17.99 17.99

Broiled Seafood Platter 14.99 Stuffed Shrimp 12.99 Mahi-Mahi 11.99 Yellow-Fin Tuna 11.99 Tilapia 9.99 Grouper 12.99 Snow Crab Legs 16.99 Royal Reds - 3/4 lb.

16.99 Combo - 1/2 lb. Each 18.99 Crab Cakes - 2 cakes 13.99 PASTA Fettuccini Alfredo 10.99 - w\grilled or blackened chicken 11.99 - with shrimp or crawfish 13.99 Basil Pesto Pasta - with Roma Tomatoes 10.99 - with grilled chicken 11.99 - with shrimp 13.99 SIDE DISHES Fried Green Tomatoes ~ Green Beans Turnip Greens ~Sweet Potato Casserole Corn Fritters ~ French Fries Mashed Potatoes w/Gravy ~ Fried Okra Au Gratin Potatoes ~ Steamed Veggies Kernel Corn ~ Yellow Rice Black-Eyed Peas ~ Cole Slaw Lima Beans ~ Macaroni & Cheese

New Orleans Catch Mediterranean Catch Caribbean Catch *Pecan Encrusted Catch *Paneed Catch LAND LOVER’S FARE

22.99 22.99 18.99 21.99 22.99

(Served with your choice of two side dishes)

Hawaiian Rib-eye - (12 oz.)

22.99 - add jumbo grilled or fried shrimp add $5.00 Jamaica-Jerk Chicken 15.99 Grilled Chicken Breasts 15.99 Fried Chicken Tenders 15.99 PASTA Fettuccini Alfredo 14.99 - with grilled or blackened chicken 17.99 - with shrimp or crawfish 19.99 Scallops Alfredo 18.99 Shrimp & Pasta Marsala 21.99 Basil-Pesto Pasta 15.99 - with grilled chicken 18.99 - with shrimp 18.99 SIDE DISHES Substitute House or Caesar Salad for a Side Dish - Add $1.99 Sweet Potato Casserole ~ Cole Slaw Baked Potato ~ Steamed Vegetables Yellow Rice ~ French Fries Fried Green Tomatoes

December 2015 • Beachin’ 51

Planned Holiday Festivities Christmas Cookies Decorating & Dining Parents make reservations for dinner where you are encouraged to bring the children! Chef Jon and his staff will help children decorate Christmas cookies while parents enjoy drinks and the islands finest cuisine. See our menu online. Cost: standard menu price of parents & kids meals; cookie decorating free. Reservations required, go to bbtb.com. We will begin on Friday, December 4, 5:00 to 7:00 and will continue on Friday and Saturday nights through December 19.

New Year’s Eve — Dinner & Dancing

Make reservations at Bill’s By the Beach to ring in the New Year with a delicious price fixed dinner and dancing.

Details to follow on bbtb.com/bills-blog.

Now you can enjoy Bill’s By The Beach wherever you are!

Order online Chef Jon’s sweet and savory Bacon Crab Cheesecake as featured on Food Network and his special sauces. Visit bbtb.com/store to place your order today.

Locals and visitors welcome - come experience the best tasting casual dining Gulf Shores has to offer!

Hours 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Tuesday - Sunday Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day.

As Featured on Food Network

300 West Beach Blvd., Gulf Shores, AL 36542 From Hwy 59, 2 Blocks Right on Hwy 182

Listed among Best Beachside Restaurants in America”

by People Magazine

251-948-5227 | bbtb.com | facebook.com/billsbythebeachgulfshores | twitter.com@billsbythebeach

52 Beachin • December 2015

GulfVisitorGuide.com

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December 2015 • Beachin’ 53

54 Beachin • December 2015

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December 2015 • Beachin’ 55

we

LOVE our SNOWBIRDS! W

EAT FOR FREE. PLAY FOR FREE.

(UNTIL MARCH 31, 2016)

Atmore

Food Credit valid only one time per week Monday-Sunday, per CLUB Card account. One time FREE Play, limit one per CLUB Card account. Guests must present valid state issued ID outside the following issued states: AL, FL, GA, MS. Offer valid through March 31, 2016.

Mobile

BEACH EXPRESS

Take this AD to player services to redeem for $10 in FREE Play (Code: ASC16$10FP) and a $15 Weekly Food Credit (Code: ASC16$15FC).

Orange Beach

F I N D YO U R W I N N I N G M O M E N T.

303 Poarch Rd., Atmore, AL • WindCreekAtmore.com

56 Beachin • December 2015

©2015 Wind Creek Hospitality

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