Vol1iss4

3 8 10 11 28

Calendar of Events Horoscope Beach Bites Christmas Coupons

Your Source for Fun and Savings on the Alabama Gulf Coast...

December 2013

Volume 1, Issue 4

Contents

2 Christmas Events 3 Calendar of Events 4 Gulf State Pier 8 Horoscope

CHARITY DOVE

SHOOTS

Call now to get your name on the list for either the north zone or south zone dove shoots. We have great fields readyto hunt in Baldwin and Wilcox counties. We’ll have a limited number of hunters at each shoot and will call you a few days before the shoot. We wait until we have plenty of birds on the fields before we set the exact date so our hunters will have the best opportunity for plenty of shooting action. All hunts will be on Fridays or Saturdays. Donation is $100 per gun and include a meal, service fun of snacks and drinks in the field and plenty of good fun.

Children hunting beside the parent is $25.

10 Beach Bites 11 Christmas 12 Photos 25 B illy’s Swimming Good Recipes 28 Coupons

O TO

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s donated venison for

We raise funds to proces

food banks.

6828 EXT. 223

CALL NOW 251-937-

On The Cover

Publisher Alan White Editor/Design/Layout Wayne Raybon Contributing Editor Wyndee Townley Advertising 251-262-6020

December 31, 2013

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Pleasure Island Christmas Events

City of Gulf Shores presents Breakfast with Santa

Gulf State Park Coastal Christmas

Date: December 1, 2013 Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Gulf State Pavilion Gulf Shores, AL Photos with Santa Claus, food, Christmas projects for the kids, Christmas Carols.

Date: December 21, 2013 Time: 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM You’ll have one more opportunity to visit with Santa on Saturday, December 21 as Gulf Shores hosts Breakfast with Santa at the Erie H. Meyer Civic Center. Beginning at 8 a.m., families can dive into a wholesome breakfast complete with sausage, bacon, eggs and pancakes before having their pictures taken with Santa.

Admission: $5.00 3 & Under - FREE Call 251-968-1172 for more information.

Breakfast with Santa is a part of the Coastal Christmas campaign.

Orange Beach Tree Lighting at the Wharf

Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service

City of Gulf Shores Lighted Christmas Parade & Beach Celebration

Reeling in the New Year at The Wharf

Date: December 3, 2013 Time: 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM Join us as the City of Orange Beach hosts its Official Tree Lighting at the Wharf. This free event is open to all ages. Community groups will have hot chocolate, arts and crafts and cookie decorating booths. Santa will arriving on a fire truck!

Date: December 6, 2013 Time: 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM The holiday fun continues on Friday, December 6 with the Gulf Shores Lighted Christmas Parade and Beach Celebration. The evening parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. and will feature festive lighted floats from around the region. Large crowds of spectators looking to soak up the holiday spirit are anticipated along Highway 59 as parade entries make their way from Clubhouse Drive to the Gulf Shores Public Beach.

The excitement from the parade will roll continuously into the night as the celebration at the Gulf Shores Public Beach will kick off immediately following the parade. Families can enjoy a stunning lighting ceremony followed by pictures with Santa, a live nativity, holiday treats, crafts and much more.

Anyone interested in entering the parade can do so by registering online at www.gulfshoresal.gov/paraderegistration or by contacting Candice Carraway at 251-968-1173.

Breakfast with Santa at Orange Beach United Methodist Church

Date: December 7, 2013 Time: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM Breakfast with Santa - Saturday, Dec. 7th, 8:00-11:00am, Brooks Center at Orange Beach United Methodist Church. Children of ALL ages are invited to come in their Christmas PJ’s to eat breakfast, make a craft and have their picture made with Santa himself. http://www.orangebeachumc.org

Santa’s Workshop for Children ages 5-12

Date: December 14, 2013 Time: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Santa’s workshop for children ages 5-12 at the Merry Market Expo at the Orange Beach Events Center at the Wharf.

Tickets are $6.00 in advance (by December 6th) $10 if purchased after the 6th or at the door.

Children will make an ornament to take home, decorate cookies for snack, write letters to Santa and play games while their parents shop at Merry Market.

Annual Lighted Christmas Boat Parade

Date: December 14, 2013 Time: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM In it’s 28th year this annual event has easily become one of the area’s favorite and unique holiday events. It’s free to enter a boat. To charter a boat contact Zeke’s Landing Marina (251) 981-4007. This is a great way to treat your office by having a Christmas holiday party on the water!

The parade will begin at 5:30pm at Lulu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores and conitnue east into Orange Beach and will end at Zeke’s Landing Marina.

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Date: December 24, 2013 Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Orange Beach United Methodist Church http://www.orangebeachumc.org Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service followed by “Come and Go Communion” from 6-8pm Date: December 31, 2013 - January 1, 2014 http://www.alwharf.com Celebrate the New Year with The Wharf ’s Annual New Year’s Eve Street Party. Enjoy FREE family-friendly festivities like live music, fireworks, and our Marlin Drop while we countdown to midnight!

Enjoy the VIP experience this New Year’s Eve! For $75, you’ll get access to an exclusive VIP lounge area located at The Palms will feature premium views of the fireworks, bands and Marlin Drop. Hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine, softdrinks and a cash bar will also be available. Purchase your ticket now at The Wharf Box Office or online at Ticketmaster.com.

For more info on these or other events go to alagulfcoastchamber.com

Pleasure Island Calendar of Events Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo 1204 Gulf Shores Pkwy. in Gulf Shores (251) 968-5732 www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.org Daily Hours: 9am-4pm (taking last guests at 3:30pm) Admission: Adults (13-54) $10.00, Seniors (55+) $8.00, Children (3-12) $7.00, Children 2 and Under Free, $1.00 off admission per person in family with valid Military ID Flipper’s 5749 Bay La Launch in Orange Beach at Bear Point Marina (251) 981-3547 www.flippersrestaurant.com WEEKLY MUSIC SCHEDULE @ Flipper’s Tiki Bar Tuesday Live Music from Scott Koehn Wednesday Live Music from Scott Koehn Thursday Live Music from Different Picks Friday Live Music from Terry Causey Saturday Live Music from Scott Koehn & Friends GULF SHORES AMERICAN LEGION POST 44 6781 GULF SHORES PKWY, GULF SHORES • 948-6110 MEMBERS, GUESTS & GENERAL PUBLIC WELCOME Friday Night – 5 to 11; Rib Eye Steak Dinners - Dance to Musicman & Co Sunday Evening – 4 to 8; Short Order Food - Dance to Musicman & Co Tuesday Night – 5 to 8; Prime Rib Dinner - Dance to Musicman & Co There is no cover charge unless advertised otherwise.

Live dance music by Musicman & Co is the best you’ll find on the coast, bar none. Call 948-6119 for more info.

Visit Post 44 on Monday nights, starting at 6 and Thursday mornings, starting at 10 for Bingo Games. Food is usually available for purchase before or after Bingo and beverages are always available. Call 948-6119 for more info.

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LuLu’s at Homeport Marina 200 East 25th Avenue in Gulf Shores (251) 967-LULU (5858) www.lulubuffett.com Hours: Sunday through Thursday 11:00am – 9:00pm, Friday and Saturday 11:00am – 10:00pm December 1 Greg Brown 1:00 pm Greg Brown 5:00 pm December 2 Brent Burns 5:00 pm December 3 Destiny Brown 5:00 pm December 4 Jimmy Lumpkin 5:00 pm December 5 Adam Holt 5:00 pm December 6 Andrew Duhon 5:00 pm December 7 CoConut Radio 5:00 pm December 8 Greg Brown 1:00 pm Greg Brown 5:00 pm December 9 Brent Burns 5:00 pm December 10 Jon Cowart 5:00 pm December 11 Kyle & Karl 5:00 pm December 12 Adam Holt 5:00 pm December 13 Rhythm Intervention 5:00 pm December 14 Billy Claus Visits LuLu’s plus music by Jon Cowart 1:00 pm Nautical Night of Lights Boat Parade with Grits N Pieces 5:00 pm December 15 Greg Brown 1:00 pm Greg Brown 5:00 pm December 16 Brent Burns 5:00 pm December 17 Joey Arata 5:00 pm December 18 Possum Trot 5:00 pm December 19 Adam Holt 5:00 pm December 20 Kyle & Karl 5:00 pm December 21 CoConut Radio 5:00 pm December 22 Greg Brown 1:00 pm Greg Brown 5:00 pm December 23 Brent Burns 5:00 pm December 24 Closed for the Holiday 11:00 am December 25 Closed for the Holiday 11:00 am December 26 Adam Holt 5:00 pm December 27 Cool Rayz 5:00 pm December 28 Jon Cowart 5:00 pm December 29 Greg Brown 1:00 pm Greg Brown 5:00 pm December 30 Brent Burns 5:00 pm December 31 Noon Year’s Eve 11:00 pm

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s i F k r a P e t a t S f Gul THE PIER IS OPEN FOR FISHING 24/7.

Gulf State Park’s Pier opened July 23, 2009. The new pier is the largest pier on the Gulf of Mexico at 1540 ft. long and 41,800 sq. ft. The pier boast features that were not available on the old pier, destroyed in 2004 by Hurricane Ivan, such as indoor seating for concession area, indoor retail area for tackle and souvenirs, comfort stations at the midpoint of the pier and wheelchair accessible rail fishing. The new pier has 2448 feet of fishing space available along the rails. The pier user fees and rules and regulations are listed below.

“If It SwImS we’ve Got It”

End of County Road 10 on Bon Secour River Supplying Quality Fresh Seafood Since 1975

For more information please contact the pier at: (251)967FISH(3474) or gulfpier.statepark@dcnr.alabama.gov A saltwater fishing license is required for everyone 16 years and older. License can be purchased at the Pier.

Alabama residents 65 and up are NOT required to have a saltwater fishing license.

We now have a non-resident annual Pier Fishing License,it can be purchased for $11.

For more information, please visit http://www.outdooralabama.com/ Continued Pg 6

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Permit Fees (License not included in permit fee) Adults & Children 12 yrs & Up

Under 12 yrs(free with paying adult)

Daily Fishing Permit

$8.00

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Weekly Fishing Permit

$40.00 $10.00 (w/out paying adult)*

Monthly Fishing Permit

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Semi-Annual Fishing Permit $160.00 $40.00 (w/out paying adult)* Annual Fishing Permit Sightsee (All Day) Sightsee (One Trip)

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$3.00 Free with paying adult

$2.00

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* No child under 12 years of age will be allowed on the pier unless accompanied by an adult.*

With more than 7,000 square feet of shopping space, Gigi’s carries a large supply of the latest papers, tools and products for its customers, including hard-to-find old favorites.

STORE HOURS: Mon-Sat 9:00am-5:30pm

Closed on Sundays

Pier Rules and Regulations Limit of 6 rods per fisherman (additional rods brought will be charged $3.50 each) No trolley fishing permitted Bottom fishing up-wind/up-current Float fishing down-wind/down-current One fishing rod in use at a time.

Salt water fishing license required Good conduct/sportsmanship required One crab basket per person (no wire baskets)(cannot be left unattended and you cannot crab and fish at same time) Catch must be placed in container within 10 minutes Keep tackle and bait OFF of tables and benches Cut your bait at cleaning tables or bait cutting tables only Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times No standing or sitting on rails No jumping/diving off of pier No alcohol allowed on pier No cooking on pier PROHIBITED Pets-Soliciting-Shark Fishing-Reels over 4.0-Cast Nets-Gill Nets-Wire Crab Traps-Spears Spear Guns-Bed Rolls-Cots-Sleeping Bags-Sleeping-Skates-Skate Boards-Bicycles-Running Horseplay-Fireworks-Firearms-Sling Shots-Beach Umbrellas-Lounge Chairs

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Just For Fun! Monthly Horoscope

Now through the month don’t start new legal, educational, far travel, or similar projects. Stick with the old, former, or on-going ventures only. Work is hectic, will continue so until late this month. Be prepared, pace yourself. It will help if you avoid new tasks and try to complete what had already been started.

Some investments in the real estate sector shall give you a windfall during this month. But it is not a quick buck but rather something that you have waited for years. You’re dynamic and charismatic now, especially for the starting of the month. But indecision or mistakes impede romance, speculation, creative ventures.

A vacation for the children’s interest shall revamp the spirit at home.

Believe no promises and make none, now through the month of December. Circumstances, business factors, and personal feelings will change.

An “”ex”” might return in your life. Make a good choice. You’ll re-examine your marriage or other partnerships this month. Fun and festivities surround you in both personal and professional life.

Don’t start new work, or renovation issues for this month. Major danger lurks around in travelling.

On the good side, an old job might return to save you in a stressful money situation. Stay safe and keep your map open and your wallet closed. You’re restless now through the month as finances keep piling up due to a house-related work. Plan well and play your cards closed.

Money shall come for you easily this week. Buy a small luxury, treat yourself. Ask for a raise or charge more and you’ll get it. Travel, communications, paperwork, details and appointments run into glitches this month and generally until the month end.

Do not stumble around, instead try to stand on your feet. Do not overindulge yourself especially in matters of eating and dressing. It might take a toll on your health and purse.

Do not launch any new financial, investment commitment or similar projects now. This same period, though, could bring you nice things in these same areas from the past. Love is very possible this month, might grow upon you like sweet magic. On-going projects in your work place need to be wound down for this

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month for better results.

Handle governmental, institutional, paperwork with ease this month. Visit an old friend who’s lonely and need a shoulder to hang on. Be charitable with your deeds this month. Buy nothing, though which are quite expensive for your purse. You might be ambitious and just let it go. You need to be cautious with your finances for this month.

Romance soars and an old flame might appear from nowhere this month. This is good, if for no other reason than wisdom. Don’t stand on pride.

But do not start any new romances nor any new creative, speculative, artistic, decoration projects. More money from professional field shall flow in much to your surprise.

This month a subtle unease about your financial or sexual situation can tempt you to leap into an investment endeavor. Wait until the end of the month to decide to change your life, chase sex, or invest. Until then, focus directly on ambition. You stand to gain through some artistic pursuits as well. Long distance travels might materialize during the course of this month.

The emphasis this month remains on romance, creativity, pleasure, speculation. These are favored for the weeks ahead. This month brings in a period of lightness and freedom which will allow happiness, pleasure and creativity to blossom more fully in the days to come. Happy news come from children from across the globe. Health needs to be handled with double care for this month ahead.

Communications, travel, paperwork are emphasized this month. These continue to bring happy social contacts for you through the month. This is not a good time to invest as the results would be not as expected. But earning and spending money are lucky for you through the course of this month.

You return to a former career role or project now.

If you’re a parent, your tasks seem like deja-vu.

Take this in stride and there’s something good in it. Reject any financial ideas for now. Love and far travel, might arise in your life.A wedding in the family shall also bring happy tidings for the month ahead.

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Christmas Crabmeat and Shrimp Cocktail with Red Bell Pepper Aioli Ingredients 2 large ripe Hass avocados, peeled, seeded, and diced 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon chopped green onions 2 teaspoons minced shallots 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Pinch salt 8 ounces lump crabmeat, picked over for shells and cartilage Red Bell Pepper Aioli, recipe follows 8 ounces large shrimp, boiled, peeled, and chilled 1/2 cup finely diced tomatoes Chopped chives, for garnish Long thinly sliced French bread croutons, for garnish Directions In a bowl, gently toss the diced avocado with 1 teaspoon of the lemon juice to prevent discoloration. Refrigerate until chilled, 30 minutes to 1 hour.

In another bowl, combine the remaining lemon juice, mayonnaise, green onions, shallots, mustard, and salt. Gently fold in the crabmeat so as to not break the lumps. Adjust the seasonings to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to assemble.

In the bottom of 4 or 6 tall martini glasses or small footed compotes or bowls, place the diced avocado. Top with a dollop of the red pepper aioli and arrange the crabmeat in the center of the sauce. Arrange the shrimp around the outside rims of the glasses or bowls, and top each serving of crabmeat with a heaping tablespoon of the tomatoes. Garnish with the chives and additional red pepper aioli, as desired, and French bread croutons. Serve immediately.

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Red Bell Pepper Aioli: 1 large egg* 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar 1 large red bell pepper, roasted, peeled, seeded, and diced 1/2 teaspoon chopped garlic 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley leaves 1/4 teaspoon salt Pinch cayenne 1/2 cup olive oil 1/2 cup vegetable oil In a food processor, pulse the egg and vinegar for 10 seconds. Add the roasted pepper, garlic, parsley, salt, and cayenne and pulse until smooth. With the machine running, slowly add the olive oil and vegetable oil through the feed tube and continue to process until the mixture forms a thick emulsion. Adjust the seasoning, to taste.

Transfer to a clean container, cover, and refrigerate until ready to use. (The mayonnaise will keep for up to 1 day.) * Raw Egg Warning Beachbites suggest caution in consuming raw and lightly cooked eggs due to the slight risk of salmonella or other food-borne illness. To reduce this risk, we recommend you use only fresh, properly refrigerated, clean grade A or AA eggs with intact shells, and avoid contact between the yolks or whites and the shell.

For recipes that call for eggs that are raw or undercooked when the dish is served, use shell eggs that have been treated to destroy salmonella, by pasteurization or another approved method.

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An Ancient Holiday The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world.

Centuries before the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter. Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice, when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight.

In Scandinavia, the Norse celebrated Yule from December 21, the winter solstice, through January. In recognition of the return of the sun, fathers and sons would bring home large logs, which they would set on fire. The people would feast until the log burned out, which could take as many as 12 days.

The Norse believed that each spark from the fire represented a new pig or calf that would be born during the coming year.

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The end of December was a perfect time for celebration in most areas of Europe.

At that time of year, most cattle were slaughtered so they would not have to be fed during the winter. For many, it was the only time of year when they had a supply of fresh meat. In addition, most wine and beer made during the year was finally fermented and ready for drinking.

In Germany, people honored the pagan god Oden during the mid-winter holiday. Germans were terrified of Oden, as they believed he made nocturnal flights through the sky to observe his people, and then decide who would prosper or perish. Because of his presence, many people chose to stay inside.

Saturnalia In Rome, where winters were not as harsh as those in the far north, Saturnalia—a holiday in honor of Saturn, the god of agriculture—was celebrated.

Beginning in the week leading up to the winter solstice and continuing for a full month, Saturnalia was a hedonistic time, when food and drink were plentiful and the normal Roman social order was turned upside down. For a month, slaves would become masters. Peasants were in command of the city. Business and schools were closed so that everyone could join in the fun.

Also around the time of the winter solstice, Romans observed Juvenalia, a feast honoring the children of Rome. In addition, members of the upper classes often celebrated the birthday of Mithra, the god of the unconquerable sun, on De-

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Snapshots...

Expires 12-31-13

“Trim-A-Tree”

Annual Christmas Event The Foley Performing Arts Association’s Holiday Tradition for over 45 Years at the PAA Art Center, 116 West Laurel Ave. (on W. Hwy 98) Foley, Alabama

More than 250 fine artists and craftsmen from throughout the southeast have created quality, unique one-of-a-kind ornaments, decorations, florals, pottery, jewelry, and fine artwork to be sold on consignment.

Always begins the second Friday in November with the event continuing through Dec. 23rd.

Hours of operation are from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Mon - Sat Checks, MasterCard and Visa accepted & free admission and parking.

PAA retains 25% consignment, displays, sells your items, and pays the sales tax. Checks are mailed to members by the 18th of the following month if over $10.00.

Items may be dropped off or shipped and PAA will ship items left to crafter for the cost.

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For more information / application, contact the PAA Art Gallery 251-943-4381, or visit www.foleyartcenter.com, zanadu@gulftel.com or artinfo@foleyartcenter.com Special Bake Sales each weekend on the Second Floor Non Profit Group receives 100% Bake Sale Proceeds

cember 25. It was believed that Mithra, an infant god, was born of a rock. For some Romans, Mithra’s birthday was the most sacred day of the year.

In the early years of Christianity, Easter was the main holiday; the birth of Jesus was not celebrated. In the fourth century, church officials decided to institute the birth of Jesus as a holiday. Unfortunately, the Bible does not mention date for his birth (a fact Puritans later pointed out in order to deny the legitimacy of the celebration). Although some evidence suggests that his birth may have occurred in the spring (why would shepherds be herding in the middle of winter?), Pope Julius I chose December 25. It is commonly believed that the church chose this date in an effort to adopt and absorb the traditions of the pagan Saturnalia festival. First called the Feast of the Nativity, the custom spread to Egypt by 432 and to England by the end of the sixth century. By the end of the eighth century, the celebration of Christmas had spread all the way to Scandinavia.

Today, in the Greek and Russian orthodox churches, Christmas is celebrated 13 days after the 25th, which is also referred to as the Epiphany or Three Kings Day. This is the day it is believed that the three wise men finally found Jesus in the manger.

By holding Christmas at the same time as traditional winter solstice festivals, church leaders increased the chances that Christmas would be popularly embraced, but gave up the ability to dictate how it was celebrated. By the Middle Ages, Christianity had, for the most part, replaced pagan religion. On Christmas, believers attended church, then celebrated raucously in a drunken, carnival-like atmosphere similar to today’s Mardi Gras. Each year, a beggar or student would be crowned the “lord of misrule” and eager celebrants played the part of his subjects. The poor would go to the houses of the rich and demand their best food and drink. If owners failed to comply, their visitors would most likely terrorize them with mischief. Christmas became the time of year when the upper classes could repay their real or imagined “debt” to society by entertaining less fortunate citizens.

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An Outlaw Christmas In the early 17th century, a wave of religious reform changed the way Christmas was celebrated in Europe. When Oliver Cromwell and his Puritan forces took over England in 1645, they vowed to rid England of decadence and, as part of their effort, cancelled Christmas. By popular demand, Charles II was restored to the throne and, with him, came the return of the popular holiday.

The pilgrims, English separatists that came to America in 1620, were even more orthodox in their Puritan beliefs than Cromwell. As a result, Christmas was not a holiday in early America. From 1659 to 1681, the celebration of Christmas was actually outlawed in Boston. Anyone exhibiting the Christmas spirit was fined five shillings. By contrast, in the Jamestown settlement, Captain John Smith reported that Christmas was enjoyed by all and passed without incident.

After the American Revolution, English customs fell out of favor, including Christmas.

In fact, Christmas wasn’t declared a federal holiday until June 26, 1870.

Irving Reinvents Christmas It wasn’t until the 19th century that Americans began to embrace Christmas. Americans re-invented Christmas, and changed it from a raucous carnival holiday into a family-centered day of peace and nostalgia.

But what about the 1800s peaked American interest in the holiday?

The early 19th century was a period of class conflict and turmoil. During this time, unemployment was high and gang rioting by the disenchanted classes often occurred during the Christmas season. In 1828, the New York city council instituted the city’s first police force in response to a Christmas riot. This catalyzed certain members of the upper classes to begin to change the way Christmas was celebrated in America.

In 1819, best-selling author Washington Irving wrote The Sketchbook of Geoffrey Crayon, gent., a series of stories about the celebration of Christmas in an

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English manor house. The sketches feature a squire who invited the peasants into his home for the holiday. In contrast to the problems faced in American society, the two groups mingled effortlessly. In Irving’s mind, Christmas should be a peaceful, warm-hearted holiday bringing groups together across lines of wealth or social status. Irving’s fictitious celebrants enjoyed “ancient customs,” including the crowning of a Lord of Misrule. Irving’s book, however, was not based on any holiday celebration he had attended – in fact, many historians say that Irving’s account actually “invented” tradition by implying that it described the true customs of the season.

A Christmas Carol Also around this time, English author Charles Dickens created the classic holiday tale, A Christmas Carol. The story’s message-the importance of charity and good will towards all humankind-struck a powerful chord in the United States and England and showed members of Victorian society the benefits of celebrating the holiday.

The family was also becoming less disciplined and more sensitive to the emotional needs of children during the early 1800s. Christmas provided families with a day when they could lavish attention-and giftson their children without appearing to “spoil” them.

As Americans began to embrace Christmas as a perfect family holiday, old customs were unearthed. People looked toward recent immigrants and Catholic and Episcopalian churches to see how the day should be celebrated. In the next 100 years, Americans built a Christmas tradition all their own that included pieces of many other customs, including decorating trees, sending holiday cards, and gift-giving.

fill the cultural needs of a growing nation.

Although most families quickly bought into the idea that they were celebrating Christmas how it had been done for centuries, Americans had really re-invented a holiday to

Christmas Facts Each year, 30-35 million real Christmas trees are sold in the United States alone.

There are 21,000 Christmas tree growers in the United States, and trees usually

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grow for about 15 years before they are sold.

Today, in the Greek and Russian orthodox churches, Christmas is celebrated 13 days after the 25th, which is also referred to as the Epiphany or Three Kings Day. This is the day it is believed that the three wise men finally found Jesus in the manger.

In the Middle Ages, Christmas celebrations were rowdy and raucous—a lot like today’s Mardi Gras parties.

From 1659 to 1681, the celebration of Christmas was outlawed in Boston, and law-breakers were fined five shillings.

Christmas was declared a federal holiday in the United States on June 26, 1870.

The first eggnog made in the United States was consumed in Captain John Smith’s 1607 Jamestown settlement.

Poinsettia plants are named after Joel R. Poinsett, an American minister to Mexico, who brought the red-and-green plant from Mexico to America in 1828.

The Salvation Army has been sending Santa Claus-clad donation collectors into the streets since the 1890s.

Rudolph, “the most famous reindeer of all,” was the product of Robert L. May’s imagination in 1939. The copywriter wrote a poem about the reindeer to help lure customers into the Montgomery Ward department store.

Construction workers started the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree tradition in 1931.

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Expires 12-31-13

w w w. c a r z o n c r e d i t . c o m

Dr. Pamela O. Edwards Family Dentistry

251-980-1023 www.itex.com

Dr. Pamela Edwards has been practicing since 1988 and was joined by her daughter Dr. Mary Edwards in 2013.

They are a mother daughter dental team that can’t wait to help you with all your dental needs.

For outstanding and friendly service please come by our office.

You will find our dental services very affordable and we accept most insurance plans including Blue Cross/Blue Shield

105 West 14th Ave., Gulf Shores, AL 36542 We’re south of Walgreen’s 251-500-1025 drpamelaedwardsdentistry.com 17

Expires 12-31-13

19

To Arms Antiques Buyer and Seller

Military Relics Pre-Civil War to Gulf War! Documents • Books • Letters • Diaries

Stop by and check out our larger inventory of Military Items, Antiques and Collectibles

15296 D Co. Rd. 3 Fairhope, Al. 36532

251-422-9474 Mon-Sat 8:30 - 4:30 After Hours By Appointment Certified Appraiser, James Mitchell Owner, Henry Skinner

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1. Name two of the three major-league players to be Rookie of the Year one season and a Most Valuable Player the next.

2. The New York Yankees have won the most World Series titles. What is the second-highest-ranking A.L. team when it comes to World Series crowns?

3. Who was the last linebacker to be taken No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft?

4. When was the last time a Mid-American Conference men’s basketball team secured an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament?

5. Which was the first American franchise in the NHL? 6. Of the past 40 men’s tennis grand slam singles events (2004 to 2013), how many have NOT been won by Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal or Novak Djokovic?

7. In the 1983 24 Hours of Le Mans race, what was the highest finish by a car other than a Porsche?

12-31-13

12-31-13

Answers 1. Cal Ripken Jr. (1982-83), Ryan Howard (2005-06) and Dustin Pedroia (2007-08).

2. The Oakland Athletics franchise, with nine.

3. Aundray Bruce, by Atlanta in 1988.

4. Miami of Ohio, in 1999.

5. The Boston Bruins, in 1924.

6. Five.

7. Ninth.

110 East Azalea Avenue Foley AL 36535 855.737.2550 your health & wellness specialist

mediStat.com

• Full Color Printing • Color Copies • Booklets • Carbonless Forms • Numbering • Perforating • Business Cards • Logos • Wide Format Printing • Stationery • Laminating

• Fax Service • Brochures • Invitations • Presentation Folders • Rack Cards • Continuous Forms • Office Supplies • Blueprints • Yard Signs • Newsletters • Flyers

• Letterheads • Envelopes • Full Color Magnets • Labels • EDDM Postcards • Announcements • Wedding Invitations • Vinyl Lettering • Document Scanning • Christmas Cards and much more...

Mention this ad to receive 15% off setup on any new orders placed

910 North McKenzie Street Foley, AL 36535 Phone: (251) 943-4123 www.underwoodprinting.com

Nutritional Supplements Health Sports Nutrition Weight Loss

Vitamins Herbs Homeopathic Body Care & Much More!

Bring in this coupon and

RECEIVE 15% OFF One item, in store only.

Not valid with any other offer. Limit one coupon per person, per visit. Coupon is not valid on prescriptions, co-pays, or J. Edward Beauty Cosmetics. Expires 12/31/2013

21

15810-A HWY 59 SOUTH, FOLEY, AL

QUAD-CORE

ONLY $155

STARTING AT

ONLY $9

STARTING AT

ONLY $18

36535

FULL KIT

ONLY $236

TOOLS, SPORTING GOODS, ELECTRONICS, TOYS, HOUSE WARES, KITCHEN, BED, BATH, AND MORE!

22

FREE

We also have an In-House Lab!

Yes we accept insurance and medicaid

Exam and X-Ray

Must Present Coupon. Expires: 12-31-13

FOLEY

12342 Foley Beach Express Suite E, Foley, AL

251-943-9251

BAY MINETTE

301 East First Street, Bay Minette, Al

251-580-0979

Take the Save-On Challenge!

Bring your doctor’s estimate and we’ll help you compare by doing an X-ray and a comprehensive Oral Exam for Free and see for yourself how you can Save-On your dental care.

We also have an In-House Lab!

Yes we accept insurance and medicaid

Dr. Denton and Dr. Hoang and the Save-On team look forward to helping you with your dental needs.

We Have 2 Convenient Locations In Baldwin County

FOLEY

12342 Foley Beach Express Suite E, Foley, AL

251-943-9251

BAY MINETTE

301 East First Street, Bay Minette, Al

251-580-0979

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Shrimp Stuffed Potatoes Ingredients 6 large Idaho potatoes Vegetable oil, for coating 8 tablespoons butter 2 cups grated cheddar cheese, plus more for sprinkling 2 cups grated Monterey Jack 2 cups sour cream Salt and pepper 1 pound shrimp, peeled and Sauteed Paprika Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Begin by washing potatoes, drying them, and gently pricking them with a fork on the sides. Coat each potato with vegetable oil, place on foil covered pan, and bake for approximately 1 hour.

Place the butter in a large bowl. Remove the potatoes from the oven and slice each potato in half. Gently scoop out the potato and place in the bowl. Using a mixer on high, mix the potatoes, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Fold the shrimp and both cheeses into the mixture. Gently stuff the mixture back into the potato shells, making sure not to break them. Pile the mixture as high as you can on top of the potato shells. Sprinkle each potato with cheese and paprika for color. Bake in the oven for approximately 20 to 30 minutes until browned on top.

Total Time: 2 hours 20 min ~ Prep: 45 min Cook: 1 hour 35 min ~ Yield: 6 servings

$1 OFF Per Pound on All Shrimp Up to Ten Lbs. This Excludes All Running Specials.

Expires 12-31-13

Mini-Crawfish Pies

Ingredients: Crust 8 tablespoons butter, cubed and softened 1 (3-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1 cup all-purpose flour

Dressing: Filling 6 tablespoons butter, sliced 6 tablespoons all-purposes flour 1 large yellow onion, diced 4 stalks celery, diced 2 small carrots, diced 1 bunch scallions, diced 1 green pepper, diced 2 shallots, diced 1 pound frozen crawfish tails, thawed 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 4 cups chicken stock

Directions Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. For the crust: In a large bowl, blend together the butter and cream cheese. Stir in flour and chill for 1 hour in the refrigerator. Separate dough; reserving 1/3 for pie tops, and using 2/3 for pie crust bottoms. To form bottom portions of dough, create dough balls approximately 1-inch in diameter and place into bottom of muffin tin cups, flattening to form crust bottoms. Bake crusts only until golden brown, about 20 minutes.

For the filling: In a saucepan, add butter and flour, stirring together over heat to create a roux. Cook until mixture is the color of peanut butter. Add all vegetables and saute until soft, about 5 to 10 minutes. Add crawfish, Cajun seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Saute mixture for 2 to 3 minutes. Add chicken stock and cook, stirring, until mixture boils and thickens. Spoon mixture into crusts. Top with circles of unbaked dough cut from the reserved 1/3 of original dough. Make a small slit in the top of the dough to allow steam to escape. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Serve while warm.

Total Time: 1 hours 20 min ~ Prep: 20 min ~ Cook: 1 hours ~ Yield: 8 Pies servings

1 OFF Per Pound on All Fish Fillets

$

Expires 12-31-13

25

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FREE • FREE • FREE CUP OF HOMEMADE SEAFOOD GUMBO or SLICE OF KEY LIME PIE

With any purchase of $35 or more Not valid with any other coupon or discount. Limit one coupon per family per visit. Dine-in only.

Duplicated or altered coupons will not be accepted. Tax and gratuity excluded.

Valid at either location. Expires 12/31/2013

3733 Battleship Pkwy • Mobile • 251-626-2188 Hwy 59 • Original Oyster House Boardwalk • 251-948-2445

FOLLOW US

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www.originaloysterhouse.com

$1 OFF Dinner Menu Excludes Senior Menu 1 Per Person Per Visit Expires 12-31-13

105 West 14th Ave. Gulf Shores, AL 36542 We’re south of Walgreen’s

251-500-1025

Free Fluoride Treatment with Cleaning

12-31-13

Expires 12/31/2013 Can use both coupons with a single visit.

105 West 14th Ave. Gulf Shores, AL 36542 We’re south of Walgreen’s

251-500-1025

Free Exam with Cleaning Expires 12/31/2013 Can use both coupons with a single visit.

Expires 12-31-13

Expires 12-31-13

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$2 OFF

Expires 12-31-13

Any Appetizer

One Coupon Per Customer Per Visit.

Expires 12/31/13

Buy 2 Entrees and get ½ Off on any one appetizer

Expires 12-31-13

One Per Purchase Per Table Expires 12-31-13

$5 OFF

Expires 12-31-13

Any $50 or more Food Purchase Anytime!

Everyday!

One Coupon Per Customer Per Visit.

Expires 12/31/13

This Excludes All Running Specials.

$1 OFF Per Pound on All Fish Fillets

Expires 12-31-13

Expires 12-31-13

Pirates Cove 6664 County Road 95 Elberta, AL

10% Off any Pizza Friday, Saturday, Sunday only Expires 12-31-13 Expires 12-31-13

1coupon/visit

Expires: 12-31-13

Pirates Cove 6664 County Road 95 Elberta, AL

1 FREE side order with a sandwich or wing purchase 1coupon/visit

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251-987-1224

One Per Purchase Per Table Expires 12-31-13

$1 OFF Per Pound on All Shrimp Up to Ten Lbs.

251-987-1224

One FREE Cup of Gumbo or Slice of Keylime Pie with the purchase of 2 entrees

Expires:12-31-13

12-31-13

12-31-13

FREE Eddie Boy’s Homemade Ice Cream for Everyone Everyday!

One FREE Cup of Gumbo or Slice of Keylime Pie with the purchase of 2 entrees

One Per Purchase Per Table Expires 12-31-13

Buy 2 Entrees and get ½ Off on any one appetizer

One Per Purchase Per Table Expires 12-31-13