49th Annual National Shrimp Fest: October 6-9 at Gulf Shores Public Beach
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mulletwrapper@gulftel.com • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • mulletwrapper.com • 850-492-5221 49th Annual National Shrimp Fest: October 6-9 at Gulf Shores Public Beach Music on 2 Stages • Free Admission • Great Family Atmosphere • Delicious Food • Arts, Crafts & Retail Marketplace After a two year hiatus, The National Shrimp Fest, already recognized across the country as a destination vacation, returns to Gulf Shores Public Beach for the 49th times Oct. 6-9. What started out as a tidy post tourist season pick-me-up is now renowned nationally for its fantastic children’s activities, vendors showcasing fine arts and crafts, a unique retail marketplace and top tier entertainment, including this year’s headliner, Trent Tomlinson. the fest is, of course, also about fabulous seafood served in a variety of ways. Gates are open daily from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. Thurs. thru Sat., and 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. on Sunday. The Gulf Shores Public Beach is located where Hwy. 59 meets the Gulf of Mexico. For Shrimp Fest info, call (251) 968-7200, or visit MyShrimpFest.com. Story On Page 4 • Pictured: The 2022 Shrimp Fest committee.
Page 2 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com A Bill McGinnes owned local institution for 37 years Y PIZZA B E E R & LOUS WARM Award Winning Baked Wings LIVE MUSIC NIGHTLY- NEVER A COVER Shucked & Baked Oysters • Sandwiches Smokey Otis Manicotti, Baked Ravioli, Lasagna EVERY MON, TUE, WED FULL MENU UNTIL MIDNIGHT Bo Grant: (FORMERLY OF THE PLATTERS) ISLAND’S BEST OCT. 14, 15, 28 & 29 Matt Erdman: Oct. 9 HAPPY HOUR Delta Donnie: O CT . 21 Tim Robinson: O CT . 2, 6, 7, 8, 13, 16, 20, 23 & 27 11-7 MON-FRI Shawn Lackey: O CT . 22 • Brent Varner: O CT . 30 Orders To Go: Call 251-948-7262 • paparocco.com Hwy. 59, Gulf Shores • 1/4 Mile North of Public Beach
Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS • Email: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Page 3
Page 4 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com AROUND TOWN Public invited to bird bandings at Fort Morgan thru Oct. 7 After two year hiatus, Shrimp Festival is back The Banding Coalition of the Americas, a non-profit dedicated The National Shrimp Festival returns to Gulf to research and education about birds, will host a free public bird Place after a two year Covid-19 related hiatus. banding event in the Fort Morgan stables area from 8 a.m. ‘til 3 The 49th edition of Gulf Shores’ signature tourist p.m. through Oct. 7. Visitors are welcome to observe and partic- event will be held Oct. 6-9 at Gulf Shores Public ipate. There is a small entry fee to enter Fort Morgan and that fee Beach and is open from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m. Thurs. allows admission to the Fort Morgan Museum and grounds. For thru Fri., and 10 a.m - 5 p.m. on Sunday. more BCA info, visit bandingcoalition.org or facebook, call Shep- Concerts will run throughout the four days of ard at 251-269-6527 or email kyle@bandingcoal ition.org. the festival on two stages located at each end of Each fall, Fort Morgan is inundated with thousands of migra- the grounds. In addition to Country music star tory birds from hawks to warblers and hummingbirds, all of Trent Tomlinson, the fest has booked The Voice which can show themselves in the banders’ nets. Early morning final four contestant Kirk Jay, longtime Shrimp is usually the best time to see the most birds. The BCA was Fest favorites like The Velcro Pygmies, and Dr. formed as an extension of the Hummer/Bird Study Group, which Zarr’s Amazing Funk Monster, and tribute bands under the direction of Bob Sargeant, started conducting spring performing the hits of Queen, AC/DC, Bon Jovi, and fall bird banding camps at Fort Morgan in 1989. and Journey. Additional activities to take place under the fes- DALLAS & NICK POP-UP SHOWS: Along with Barney's Bullet, 56Low, Funky Lampshades Battle of Bands tival umbrella include: • Sand Sculpture Demonstration & Training - performances from legendary local entertainers Brent Burns and Lisa Christian, the fest will welcome back The Friday, Oct. 7 - On the beach area towards the Dallas and Nick Show. There are no set times, so keep your The Annual Spooky Battle of the Bands at Sassy Bassy Cookout eyes peeled when walking around the grounds. You can’t Tiki Bar will be held on Wednesday, Oct.19 beginning at 6 p.m. back of the festival grounds - 12 p.m. miss ‘em. Participating bands are Barney's Bullet, 56Low and Funky • 5k/10k Run & Walk - Saturday, Oct. 8 - Orange Lampshades. The warm-ups and an elimination round will be fol- Beach Sportsplex - 5k begins at 7:30 a.m. and lowed by the final battle and vote at 8:30 p.m. The audience pres- 10k begins at 7:50 a.m. - A tradition almost as ent at 8:30 p.m. will provide the final vote. Dan Plante will MC old as the Shrimp Festival itself, going back to BICYCLE VALET SERVICE and a panel of three judges will pick the finalists. The venue is lo- 1977. Runners will make their way around the Hugh S. Branyon Backcountry Trail; Festival organizers are introducing complimen- cated at 8818 Hwy. 180 (Fort Morgan Rd.) More info: 251-948- tary bicycle valet service this year. The Lower Ala- 3042. The first 25 folks at the door will be admitted free then the • Singing for Scholarship Competition - Satur- bama Young Professionals will oversee the cover will be $5. day, Oct. 8 - West Stage - 10 a.m. - Baldwin program. The bicycle valet station will be located County students will compete on stage for schol- next to the information tent at the front entrance arships in a live singing competition. The top of the festival. Volunteer team members will greet Tickets on sale for CSC’s Toys For Kids at PBR on Nov. 5 three students in the competition will receive cash prizes for themselves and their school’s bike riders and check in their bicycles. They will receive a bicycle tag and matching numbered music program. ticket and be able to enjoy the festival knowing Tickets are now on sale at perdidobeachresort.comfor the 10th their bicycle is secured in a safe location through- Annual Toys For Kids fundraiser for the Christian Service Cen- • Sand Sculpture Contest presented by Ike’s out the duration of their visit. ter at Perdido Beach Resort on Nov. 5 from 6:30-10:30 p.m. For Beach Service - Saturday, Oct. 8 - The beach area sponsorship opportunities please contact event founder Terri towards the west end of the fest. Registration be- Long at 251-981-9453. This fabulous fundraiser has been highly gins at 11 a.m. Four different age categories will successful over the years in providing funding for CSC’s Christ- be judged. Prizes to be awarded include $100 mas Cheer program, providing toys for 500 children yearly. A cash, $50 cash, hand made sand sculpture tro- SHUTTLE BUS SCHEDULE total of $150,000 has been raised so far. Proceeds also fund CSC’s phies, and Shrimp Festival posters. Gulf Shores City Schools will provide shuttle other children’s programs. Visit myshrimpfest.com for more info on any of buses for $5 a day and all shuttle stops will fea- When CSC assists a family with rent, utilities, or food, that most the above events. ture free parking for riders. Shuttle service starts definitely blesses children with a roof over their heads, power on The fest, a fundraiser for the Coastal Alabama at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday and 9:45 a.m. for the in the house, and food on the table. Business Chamber, depends on a hard working next three days, and run until at least 15 minutes Support for and participation in this fundraiser can do so much group of volunteers that have kept this tradition after closing. Wristbands can be purchased online for children in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Fort Morgan. It kicking since 1971. (myshrimpfest.com) or at shuttle stops. is only through donations and fundraisers that the all-volunteer : Marketed as Alabama's original beach party, • Pelican Place,: 3800 Gulf Shores Pkwy. CSC is able to assist families in need. The event includes live or the late cancellation of the 2021 fest spurred Or- • Meyer Civic Center: 1930 West 2nd St. silent auctions, and 100 percent of all ticket and auction proceeds ange Beach to quickly organize a one day Free- • Waves Grocery: 1154 West Beach Blvd. go to CSC, a non-profit, all volunteer agency providing food and dom Fest. That festival is now a three day event, • Lake Shelby at GSP: 20115 AL-135 emergency financial assistance (and more) to low income fami- that has established its place as a Pleasure Is- : lies in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan. Learn more land mainstay held annually one week prior to • The Wharf: 23101 Canal Rd. about the Center on their website cscgs.com. Shrimp Fest weekend. • Rouses: 25405 Perdido Beach Blvd. SHRIMP FEST MUSIC LINEUP GCAA art market at Gulf Shores First Presbyterian Nov. 5 Thursday, Oct. 6 Friday, Oct. 7 Saturday, Oct. 8 Sunday, Oct. 9 Lisa Christian: 10-11:30 Brent Burns: 10 – 11:30 By Destiny Brown Top Hat and Jackie: 10 – 11:30 Baldwin Baptist Assn: 10-11:30 Lefty Collins: 10 – 11:30 Singing for Scholarships: 10 – 1 The next Gulf Coast Arts Alliance (GCAA) art market is Satur- Brooks Johnson: 12 – 1:30 Logan Lassiter: 10-11:30 Jenna McClelland: 12 – 1:30 Brooke Brown: 10 – 11:30 day, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. outside the First Presbyterian Shiny Objects: 12 – 1:30 Jessica Meuse: 12 - 1:30 Journey 2 Mars: 2 – 3:30 Al & Cathy: 12 – 1:30 Church in Gulf Shores. As always, the Art Market will feature Gypsy Spark: 2 – 3:30 Brown & Wilson: 12 – 1:30 Kirk Jay: 1:30 – 3:30 Grits and Gravy: 12 – 1:30 original work from many local and regional artists displaying Platinum Premier: 2 – 3:30 JoJo Press: 2 – 3:30 Voodoo Bayou: 4 – 5:30 False Identity: 2 – 3:15 their crafts and creations. Everyone is welcome to this FREE The Fill-ins: 4 – 5:30 Hannah McFarland: 2 – 3:30 Amanda Shaw: 4 – 5:30 The Defrosters: 2 – 3:15 showcase of the fine arts. Artists of all mediums are invited to Davis and the Love: 4 – 5:30 Yeah Probably: 4 – 6:30 Eagles Tribute: 6 – 7:30 Hollywood Vagabonds: 3:30 – 5 participate and are encouraged to sign up at the GCAA Gallery Elvis Remembered: 6 – 7:30 Spank The Monkey: 4 – 6:30 Tobacco Rd.: 6 - 7:45 Groovinators: 3:30 – 5 located at 225 E. 24th Street or to call (251) 948-2627 for more in- Style: 6 – 7:30 Journey/Bon Jovi Tribute: 7 – 10 Velcro Pygmies: 8 – 10 Az Izz: 8 – 10 Trent Tomlinson: 8:15 – 10 formation. A non-profit organization, the GCAA is devoted to Queen & AC/DC Tribute: 7 – 10 Dr. Zarr: 8 – 10 advancing all facets of the arts in Gulf Coast communities.
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Page 6 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com Sewing group meets weekly at GSUMC Son Sowers, a community of local spirit filled individuals who are also handy with a nee- dle in their hand, have formed a local chapter of SewPowerful.org and will join sewists around the world to help combat extreme poverty by making purses that become part of a reusable feminine hygiene kit for girls in Zambia. The non-profit employs women in Zambia to make re-usable Sidewalks will be closed ‘til Canal Rd. widening complete feminine pads. That project also provides living-wage employ- ment for women and enables 18 month project will add turning lane, roundabout at library girls to attend school all month Save Underdogs Golf Tourney Oct. 10 at Perdido Bay long. More info: SewPowerful.org. Portions of the sidewalk on East Canal Road will be closed on and off between Hwy. 161 and Wilson Boulevard for the duration The Pleasure Island based Son of the road widening project. The area is an active construction Sponsorships, Pet Boards and player registrations are open for Sowers group meets on Thurs- zone and will not be safe for golf carts, pedestrians or bicyclists. the Save Underdogs Sixth Annual Golf Tournament scheduled days from 1-3 p.m. at Gulf The project will add a turning lane to a 1.4-mile section of the on Monday, Oct. 10 at Perdido Bay Golf Club. Check in will begin Shores United Methodist road and a roundabout is being constructed near the public li- at 9 a.m., opening ceremony with Rhonda Hart singing the na- Church classroom B206 for two brary. When complete, the project will include 10-foot multi-use tional anthem at 10:15 a.m. and shotgun start at 11 a.m. The hours of card making, cutting, path on the north side of the road between Callaway Dr. and Wil- $90 per player ($360 per team) registration fee includes two mul- embellishing, ironing and pat- son Blvd. Construction began last month and is expected to take ligans, breakfast, green fees, cart fees & range balls. Only a few tern tracing. For more info, contact Suzi a year and a half to complete. spots remain for golfers but you can sign up on the waiting list. Thompson Engineering is the project engineer and John G. Wal- Save Underdogs LLC is a group of passionate and determined Jackson at sewsowensuzias- tic@gmail.com or 205-753-0281. ton Construction Company was awarded the construction con- men and women whose primary mission is to rescue, rehabilitate tract in the amount of $7.36 million. The majority of the cost for and re-home abandoned and abused dogs found along the Florida this project will be paid for with post-BP oil spill Resources and Panhandle. A variety of tourney sponsorship options and more registration Coach Jackie Sherrill is Ecosystem Sustainability, Tourism Opportunities, and Revived Economies of the Gulf Coast States Act of 2012. The RESTORE info can be found at saveunderdogsinperdido.com. Contribution s cover the expenses of properly vetting the dogs, spay & neuter GCAC’s Oct. 10 guest grant will cover $5.9 million. The overall construction is expected to take a year and a half surgeries, heartworm & flea meds and miscellaneous surgeries. Jackie Sherrill, the former with completion in early 2024. A unique tourney sponsor option is the group’s Second Annual head coach at Mississippi State, Pet Board Display. For just $50, patrons can sponsor a sign that Pitt and Texas A&M, will speak will include up to four pictures of their pets to be displayed at the to Gulf Coast Athletic Club tourney. Boards will be presented to the sponsors as keepsakes. members and guests during the Since 2004, Save Underdog’s dedicated volunteers are respon- club’s Oct. 10 meeting at Craft sible for rescuing, rehabilitating & re-homing over 7000 sick, in- Farms clubhouse in Gulf Shores. Social time starts at 6 jured, abused or unwanted animals by using community driven p.m. Dinner at 6:30 p.m. and models to take actions that make a long-lasting difference. The the program starts at 7 p.m. group has grown considerably in the past 18 years thanks to the The agenda includes team re- helping hands of the Gulf Coast’s amazing community of dog ports. Meetings are casual in lovers! Pictured: Fundraising fun at the 2021 tourney nature, with most attendees wearing their team colors. Non- members are welcome to attend meetings for $45. More info: Taylor.Means @gmail.com or visit gcathleticclub.com. Sherill was a coaching star at Pittsburgh, accruing three straight 11-1 seasons, four bowl victories and a 50-9-1 record. He took over the A&M pro- gram in 1982 after signing a Movies at Meyer Park starts Oct. 27 with Scooby Doo 2 contract for $1.6 million over five years, a record deal for a The City of Gulf Shores fifth annual Movies at Meyer Park college football coach at the series is scheduled to begin Thursday, October 27. Bring lawn time. He won the Southwest chairs and blankets and join us at Meyer Park for a free movie Conference three times and had under the stars. a 52-28-1 record over six years Movies at Meyer Park will feature a series of three films with the Aggies. After a 7-5 sea- son in 1988 and a two-year brought to you by Small Town, Big Beach Productions: Octo- NCAA probation, Sherrill re- ber 27 – Scooby Doo 2 (PG); November 10 – Dog (PG-13); De- signed. Two years later, he went cember 15 – Elf (PG). to Mississippi State and won a Movies are free and begin at 6 p.m. Meyer Park is located in school-record 75 games in the the Waterway Village District at 400 East 22nd Avenue in rugged SEC. A former player at Alabama, Sherrill began his Gulf Shores. Food trucks will be present at each movie, and coaching career as a grad assis- the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber will be onsite selling tant to Bear Bryant in 1966. beverages for all ages to enjoy.
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Page 8 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com AROUND TOWN Trunk or Treat is part of Oct. 22 Live Bait Fall Festival Live Bait in Orange Beach will host its first annual Fall Festi- val on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 2- 8 p.m. In addition to spooky snacks, live music, a pumpkin patch with pumpkin decorating, a fire truck to explore, fun games and a costume contest, the party will include a trunk or treat. Live Bait is located at 24281 Per- dido Beach Blvd. For more info, call (251) 974-1612 or email live- baitob@gmail.com. Arts Afire Fall Festival Oct. 27 at O.B. Coastal Art Center The Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach (26389 Canal Rd.) will host its Annual Arts Afire Fall Festival on Thursday, Oct. 27 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Festivities during the free event include fiery hot glass demos in The Hot Shop, Clay Studio pottery raku firings and lots of kids fall games, crafts and a treats trail in the court- MYSTICAL ORDER OF AURORA RAISE $70K FOR YOUTH REACH: The 2022 Swanky Gala, organized by yard. the Mystical Order of Aurora, was a huge success! The Mardi Gras organization presented a check for $70,000 to Youth Reach- Gulf Coast, a Baldwin County-based residential program for young men dealing with addiction and other difficult life challenges. Since 2009, The Hot Shop has been Alabama’s premier hot glass This year’s gala benefited from sponsorships and donations to the silent auction by a wide range of caring local businesses, or- blowing facility, offering “Make Your Own Glass” classes and ganizations and individuals, as well as tickets sold to about 380 attendees. Platinum sponsors included Flora-Bama, Capstone beautiful glass art available for sale in the 10,000 sq. ft. Coastal Building, Zeke’s Landing Marina, Baldwin Gyn & Asthetics, Frank & Co. Jewelers & J. & W. Marine Enterprises. Other sponsors included: Alabama Acupuncture; All Pro Island Maintenance; Angel Hair Salon & Day Spa; Anthony's Bridal; Archipelago; Auburn Arts Center Gallery. For more info, call 251-981-ARTS (2787) or Equestrian; Auburn University; Avenue Pub; Bay & Beach; Beachin' Eats; Beautiful Buzz Boutique; Beaver Dam Lodge;; Beebe's Catering; Big Fish; visit CoastalArtsCenter.com. Blue Wahoos; Bob and Michelle Orwig; Bust a Duck; Cambells Hardware; Caribe; Carol Hardy; Chiropractic Connection; CK Connection; Claudia and Pat Simpson; Coastal Cakes; Coco Island furniture; Cosmos, Cobalt, GTS, Lunas, Buzzcats; Cotton Doodles; Crown Distributing; Cruisin Tikki; CShelz Photography; Current Tides Vacation Rentals; Cutters Corner; Deep South Bakery; Diamond Jewelers; Dixie Trucking; Donna and Eric Stump; Elite Tickets on sale for Oct. 21 Chicago Street Supper Club Nails; EnrG Wellness; Eva and Eddie Keesee; Eva Trader and David Peleschak; Fedok Plastic Surgery & Laser Center; FIBER-SEAL; Fisherman's Corner; Fishers; Flora-Bama Water Sports; Foley Supercuts; Freebird Charters; Fresh off the Boat; Glen Lakes Golf Club; Glitter & Dirt; Grander Ma- rine; Grey Contracting; Gulf Coast Rental; Gulf Shores Gulf Club; Hancock Law Firm, PLLC; Happy Harbor; Happy Olive; Harvest Jewels; Hoiles, Dasinger & Hollon P.C.; Hookfire Adventure Travel & Safari; Howard Air Conditioning; J&M package; Jane and Jimmy Sims; Jane Lee Coastal Art; Jaqueline Grear; JELLYFISH; Jennifer and Greg Edmonds; Jesse and the Jets; JG Concepts, LLC; Johnny B's Front Porch; Kendall and Dean Hoff- Tickets, priced at $100 per, are now on sale for the 11th Annual man; Kim's Nails; Lash Babe Beauty Bar; Legally Lovely; Lisa Jones; Lucca, Lisa Kimbrough; Manda Meat Company; Manning Jewelers; Marlene and South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Chicago Street Supper Blake Lowe; McCollough Basket; Melanie Martin Interiors; Men's Room; Milly Middleton; Mission 25 Hair Salon; Moss Rock Tacos; Mystical Order of Club on Oct. 21 from 6-10 p.m. This elegant outdoor dining ex- Aurora; Oasis The Wharf; Orange Beach Dolphin Cruise; Orange Beach Parasail; OSO & OSO Early; Out-Front Merchandising; OWA; Pam and Thomas Young; Peninsula Golf & Racquet; Perdido Beach Resort; Pigeon Caterers & Events; Porta Del Sol; PUBLIX; Red & White At the Wharf; Red perience takes place in the heart of downtown Foley on North Mountain the Wharf; SAMS Orange Beach; Scout & Cellar Shellie Semiclose; Severance Security; Sheryl Mitchell; Simpson Properties Group; Smith Chicago Street and features a four-course meal prepared by top Prestwood; Specialty Bakery; Sunset Nails; Tacky Jacks; Teresa and Louis Jeffers; The Event Center City of Orange Beach; The Orange Beach Store; The Pleasure Island Tiki Bar; The Waggy Tail; The Wharf Catering Group; Top Tier Water Sports; Tuscany Pizza and Grill; University of Alabama; local chefs. The well-curated menu that is paired with an amaz- Vecchio; Villaggio Grill; Voyagers; Wellness Dimensions, Donna Chetta; Wildflowers, Terri Long, Candice Duncan; Wisdom Harbour Studios. ing selection of wine. Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. with dinner service to follow at 7 p.m. Featured chefs include Paul Abel of Wolf Bay, Dan Navarro of Dan's Diner, Zach Bridges of Craft Farms Golf Resort and Kimberly Asbury of BuzzCatz Coffee & Sweets. Casual cocktail attire is recommended. More info: O.B. Police & Fire Rachel@mylocalchamber.net or 251-943-5550. Cook-Out Oct. 22 The Orange Beach Police and Fire Community Cookout will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22 at Water- front Park. Join the police and fire departments for a lunch of hamburgers and hot dogs that will be provided free to the com- munity they love to serve. Wa- terfront Park is at 26425 Canal Road. Orange Beach BALDWIN POPS OCT. 23 AT O.B. COASTAL ARTS CENTER: The Baldwin Pops will perform a free concert in the courtyard of the Coastal Arts Pot Luck Nov. 7 Center of Orange Beach from 5-6:30 p.m. on Sunday, October 23. Bring blankets, lawn chairs, picnics and favorite beverages. Tablecloth prize will be awarded for best table or picnic setup. The concert is brought to you free of charge by the City The next Orange Beach Com- of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. For more info, contact munity Potluck Dinner will be Orange Beach Parks & Recreation at 251-981-1524. held on Monday, Nov. 7 at the Community Center, 27235 Canal Road. Doors open at 6 THANKS ORANGE BEACH SURF RESCUE: While the lifeguard stands p.m., dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. and a program at 7 p.m. The en- trée will be provided by the Or- ange Beach Community Advertising Info: have been removed from the beach, Orange Beach lifeguards will continue patrols until October 31. Statistics for Orange Beach Surf Rescue from March 1 - Sept. 23: Minor First Aids: 52; Major First Aids: 21; Missing Persons: 23; Rescues: 157; Calls for Service: 19; Public Assist: 1,441; Boat Incidents: 4; Code Enforcement: 403; Association. Anyone attending may bring a side dish, dessert or pay $5, if unable to prepare a 850-492-5221 food item. The association is col- Drowning: 1. Find more information and daily beach reports on the Surf Rescue page at orangebeachal.gov. A big shout-out to Orange Beach Surf Rescue for (along with OBPD & OBFD) protecting paradise. lecting dues of $25 for a family and $13 for single member. mulletwrapper.com
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Page 10 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com AROUND TOWN Tip Tops & TuTu’s party Oct. 8 at LuLu’s at Homeport Marina Tip Tops & TuTu’s, a celebration of owner Lucy Buffett’s birth- day, will be held on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 5:30-9:30 p.m. at the popular Gulf Shores family restaurant. Come celebrate Lucy's birthday with the Tip Tops, a Key West costume contest (1st prize - $250 LuLu's gift card), raffles and birthday cake for all. Other activities include an inflatable slide, a mechanical surf board and a photo booth. LuLu’s is located on the Intracoastal Waterway at 200 E. 25th Ave. under the northside of the Hwy. 59 Bridge. Visit LuLusFunFoodMusic.com for more info. Oct. 15 sunset paddle includes contests & Spicy Danger concert Little Miss Sunshine contestants collect food for Blessed To Blessing boxes Enjoy a free a family-friendly Halloween themed sunset water paddle followed by a concert from popular local musicians Sicey From one to 80 boxes in three years while letting folks know help is available Danger on Saturday, Oct. 15 at 5:30 p.m. Wear your best cos- Young ladies participating in the recent Little Miss “Some churches have them out like the First Pres- tume and decorate your kayak or paddleboard because there Sunshine Pageant (above) collected food donations byterian in Gulf Shores. If somebody tells me they will be prizes. City of Orange Beach Coastal Resources staff for Blessed to Blessing Boxes of Baldwin County as have one I ask them if they want us to add them to will guide a short paddle along the southern shore of Wolf Bay part of the event’s community service festivities. the list. I have people on fire to stock these boxes so to watch the sunset from 5:30 p.m. - 6:45 p.m. Launch from the The non-profit was started by Lori Keelin just 18 if we can get them on the list, they’ll have more ex- Wind & Water Learning Centerbeach launch. This is an event months ago and between setting up its own boxes posure.” recommended for 10 years and older; minors under the age of and spreading the word about affiliate boxes, it now Volunteers like Billy Prewett and Kenny Keelin 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Contact Jackie McGonigal includes more than 80 locations between Orange (Lori’s husband) have stepped up to make the boxes at jmcgonigal@orangebeachal.gov or call 251-424-5909 to re- Beach and Bay Minette. for the project. serve a kayak or bring your own. There is no registration fee, “We are completely volunteer and donation based,’’ Keelin put her first box up in Robertsdale, and it said volunteer Tiffany Rittich. “The need is great in soon blossomed into something much larger. but participants can make a cash or check donation to the Bald- our area. So many want to help, but don’t know we “I made this little group on Facebook and they win County Child Advocacy Center on site. exist.’’ started inviting their friends and before I knew it Bring a camp chair and pack a cooler for the Spicy Danger The hope for the project is to make boxes full of people were saying I’ll take a box or I’ll take a box or concert from 7-9 p.m. whether you paddle or not. Everyone is items needed for everyday life available for those we have a box but it’s not getting a lot of use,’’ she invited! who may be struggling to make ends meet. The said. “It’s been like this huge snowball effect of signs on the boxes simply say: “Take what you need. everybody wanting to help everybody. It’s been won- Leave what you can.’’ derful.” Oct. 8 Hound Dog Music Festival raises Humane Society funds South Baldwin locations include J&M Tackle in Keelin said the boxes are easily accessible for those Orange Beach, RAC Health & Fitness in Roberts- in need and those wanting to fulfill that need. Plus, Tickets are currently on sale at baldwinhumane.org for the 5th dale; Whitehaven Insurance, Wayne T. Martin, they are available to people who may have trans- Annual Hound Dog Music Fest, a benefit for the Baldwin Hu- D.D.S, Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church and portation issues getting to food banks and pantries mane Society on Saturday, October 8 from 4-8 p.m. at The Venue Gulf Shores First Presbyterian Church in Gulf during regular business hours. Boxes are being at Hidden Lake on County Rd. 8 in Silverhill. Participating bands Shores; Elberta Pharmacy, the Elberta Civic Cen- placed within walking distance of neighborhoods include The Leavin Brothers, Them Again, The Ayers Brothers ter and the Miflin Community Center in Elberta; where they are most needed. and White Lang. Food trucks will be on site a the BYOB event. and South Baldwin Christian Church and United “This is the quickest, easiest way that we could The Baldwin Humane Society is a no-kill adoption agency. Es- Methodist Church in Foley. find to get food into people’s hands without red tablished in 1979, we were the first animal advocacy group in The box on Keller Rd. in Foley that has to be re- tape,” Keelin said. Baldwin County. With community support, they rescue, rehabil- stocked daily. There are also boxes at St. Joseph With the help of so many enthusiastic people com- Catholic Church in Lillian and Loxley Elementary ing together through the Facebook page, Keelin’s vi- itate, and find homes for hundreds of abused, abandoned and neg- School. Check the Blessed to Blessings facebook sion continues to grow. lected pets annually. For more info, call 251-928-4585. page for a complete list of locations. ““The main thing that we need to make this hap- When Keelin first took an idea from friends to put pen is community communication,’’ she said. “Those up a few wooden boxes and stock them with food for little groups on Facebook that’s really what’s keep- Hospice hosts Harvest For Hope fundraiser Oct. 7 at Oak Hollow the needy in the area, she had her eye on one, ing this going. It’s not me. I don’t want any credit maybe two box locations. because without the communication of the commu- The Community Hospice Foundation of South Alabama will host “We just thought we were going to build a couple nity because you see everybody is answering ques- its annual Harvest for Hope fundraising event on Friday, October of boxes and we had no idea what we were getting tions. They’re not waiting for me to give 7 from 6-10:30 p.m. at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope. Proceeds go ourselves in for but we’re not complaining,” Keelin instructions. People have taken ownership in this to the CHFSA, a non-profit formed to support individuals and said. project like those boxes belong to those people.” families of those affected by a terminal illness by offering finan- cial support, education, bereavement and advocacy. AD INFO The Alabama-based Tip Tops, a high-energy Motown dance and show band, will play, and the event includes a drawdown with a grand prize of $5,000 and a silent auction. A $100 ticket purchase admits two guests; includes one drawdown ticket, food and drink. 850-492-5221 Table sponsors are $2,500, $1,500 and $1,000. Other Sponsor lev- els include $500. Tickets are available at communityhos- piceAL.org, Eventbrite or by Square. For more sponsosrship info, contact Susan Cox at 251-424-3307. “When a specific, special need arises in our community, we do mulletwrapper.com our best to help,” said Community Hospice Foundation Board Member Martha Allegri. “Whether it be putting food on the table, helping cover travel expenses for a family member or building a wheelchair ramp for a community member, we want people to know they are not alone during this challenging time.”
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Page 12 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com AROUND TOWN Oct. 9 Flora-Bama Oktoberfest includes free food & beer steins G.S. defers request for medical marijuana dispensary Break out your lederhosen for the Flora-Bama’s Oktoberfest on Oct. 9 be- By John Mullen northeast Alabama, Cullman, Russellville in ginning at 4 p.m. Receive a free drink upon entry for those 21 and up, The Gulf Shores Planning Commission de- Franklin County, Owens Cross Roads in Madi- free stein to the early arrivers ( until depleted), 25% off in the gift shop, ferred indefinitely a request from resident Ryan son County and Killen in Lauderdale County. and complimentary German food from the buffet (while supplies last). Shamburger to consider an ordinance to allow a Bid Let For Waterway East Improvements Food is served at 4 p.m. and the menu includes Beer Brats, Sauerkraut, medical cannabis dispensary in the city. The Gulf Shores is poised to award the bid for im- and German Potato Salad. commission voted at the Sept. 27 meeting unan- provements along Waterway East Boulevard The stein hoisting competition sponsored by Samuel Adams will begin imously to defer the item. from State Route 59 to the proposed new bridge at 5 p.m. Live music by The Brats, a New Orleans based polka band, be- “It’s deferred until such time that a policy is over the Intracoastal Waterway to Asphalt gins at 4 p.m. Children are welcome during this family friendly event and there is no adopted,” Community Development Director Services for $19.2 million. cover charge. Dress up in your favorite German attire! Silent judging will Lee Jones said. “That is essentially what we’re The council met Oct. 3 in a work session to take place with $50 gift certificate for best Lederhosen (men) and Dirndl recommending. It’s going to go to a committee discuss items it will vote on at the Oct. 10 regu- (women). The Flora-Bama is located on the Gulf of Mexico at the Al-Fl of the whole and Ryan’s going to request that lar session. state line. the final report go to the council for a work ses- Gulf Shores will use a $21.7 million RE- sion. It will have to be advertised for 22 days STORE grant as well as $8.6 million from the and then the public hearings will take place Alabama Department of Conservation and Nat- Free memory & balance testing Oct. 12 in O.B. & Oct. 19 in G.S. and it will either be adopted or denied.” ural Resources. Coastal Resort Properties By Sam Strite The city council can also consider adding the which, owns waterfront property along the TESTING 1,2,3 free memory and balance tests will be available Oct. 12 ordinance but city staff felt there should be a roadway, will provide an additional $1.2 million from 1-3 p.m. at the Orange Beach Senior Center (26251 Canal Rd.), Oct. restriction on the dispensaries until passage of for design and inspection costs related to the 13 from 9-11 a.m. at the Robertsdale Senior Center (22651 E. Chicago an ordinance allowing them in Gulf Shores project. The money from ADCNR will also be St.), Oct. 19 from 9-11 a.m. at the Gulf Shores Cultural Center Building while the ordinance and policy are under con- used for work on Canal Road East. C (19470 Oak Rd - County Rd. 6W), and Oct. 28 from 9-11 a.m. at the sideration. The Waterway East Boulevard work will in- Coastal Al. School of Nursing in Fairhope (440 Fairhope Ave.) More info: “We need to understand that as we look at clude the following: Intersection Improvements 251-965-5122 or samcstrite@ gmail.com. what zoning districts are appropriate, what to State Route 59 East 29th Avenue; Roadway, kind of regulations should we apply, if any,” drainage and pedestrian improvements to East Foley United Methodist Church monthly fish-fry slated Oct. 7 Councilman Philip Harris, who is also on the planning commission, said. “That really ought Second Avenue; Roundabout at East 29th Av- enue and East Second Street; Roadway, Foley United Methodist Church will host a fish-fry that is open to the to be determined first in my opinion.” drainage and pedestrian improvements to East public on Friday, October 7 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the church’s Spirit Cen- Shamburger asked the commission to recom- second Street; Roadway, drainage and pedes- ter, located at 901 North Pine St. in Foley. The meal includes deep fried mend addressing his proposed ordinance trian improvements to Waterway East Boule- white fish with homemade coleslaw, baked beans, hush puppies, dessert change to allow it to proceed at the city council vard; Extend Waterway East Boulevard from and drink. Cost is a much appreciated donation of $10. For more info or level. the Claude Petite Mariculture Center to the directions, call Foley United Methodist Church at 943-4393. The church “Before I put in the application for the zoning proposed ALDOT free bridge. hosts the fish-frys on the first Friday of each month. ordinance amendment, I did ask the Alabama $5.2 Million For GSES Addition Cannabis Commission if a zoning ordinance is The Council also authorized the mayor to con- considered an ordinance to authorize this and tract with Ben Radcliff Contractors for $4.4 mil- they did confirm that,” Shamburger told the lion to build an eight-classroom addition at Gulf commission. “I got them to confirm that in writ- Shores Elementary School. The city previously ing as well. They gave me the green light. This spent $960,016 for site prep work, design fees is the clear path for authorization in their eyes. and program management for a total project They are the body that cares about that author- cost of $5.2 million. ization since they are the ones giving the li- The council also discussed: cense. And, it’s my right as a landowner to put • Budget amendment 2 to reflect an increase this path in motion which I’ve done.” of $11.2 million in revenue and an increase of Alabama passed the Compassion Act during general fund expense of $5.2 million. the 2021 session which allows for medical • Voiding some checks that haven’t been cannabis to be prescribed to citizens who meet cashed, some from as far back as 2013. certain criteria. Part of the bill also says each • Update the credit cards authorization list to individual city must pass an ordinance allowing raise the amounts available to the detention of- dispensaries to operate in cities. ficer, fire logistics officer, IT systems supervi- Other qualifications in the bill include require- sor, Cultural Center programs and events ments that the medical cannabis be grown and manager, retail operations coordinator, conces- processed in the state of Alabama for use by cit- sions manager, recreation manager and the Al. Retailers honor Foley Fish Co. for 101 years at same location izens with a prescription. “To legally use and access medical cannabis, managing librarian. • The fire department’s Firefighter of the Year Foley Fish Company was recently honored by the Alabama Retailers patients must apply for and receive a medical for the third quarter, veteran Johnathan Sell- Assn. (alabamaretail.org) with an Alabama Centennial Retailer award cannabis card,” the memo states. “To qualify, ers who has worked with the city since 2011. for being Baldwin County’s longest operating fresh seafood market. they must be an Alabama resident, have a qual- He recently completed paramedic training and Founded in downtown Foley in 1921 by John Hesse, the market is cur- ifying condition and a physician’s certification. is a Company Officer with the department. rently owned b Tracy Ward, who purchased the company in 1999 from Qualifying conditions include a range of ail- • Authorizing a mutual aid agreement with the the second owners, Eddie and Peggy Hesse. The market’s offerings in- ments including but not limited to autism, can- Alabama Association of Fire Chiefs to “provide clude fresh seafood, dips, homemade gumbos, etouffee and shrimp bisque from 321 South McKenzie St. cer, chronic pain, depression, HIV/AIDs, and an understanding between and among public “Nationally, small businesses account for 48% of all American jobs and terminal illnesses.” fire protection agencies of Alabama.” contribute 43.5% of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP),” said Dar- Foley’s City Council recently voted to allow • Declaring seven vehicles in the police depart- reyln Dunmore, executive director of Foley Main Street Inc. “The enthu- the dispensaries to operate there and they have ment as surplus and recommending their sale siasm and work ethic of Tracy and her family reflect that of small been approved by Loxley and Daphne as well. or donation. businesses not only in downtown Foley but nationwide.” Other cities already approving dispensaries • Awarding a grass seed bid to SiteOne Land- Pictured: From left, Steve Ward, Donna Watts with South Baldwin around the state include Cowarts in Houston scape Supply which had the lowest bid at $2.47 Chamber, Foley Fish Co. owner Tracy Ward, Darrelyn Dunmore with County, Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, Glencoe in a pound. Foley Main Street and Alexis Willis with Warren Averett.
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Page 16 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com AROUND TOWN Midday Melodies continue Oct. 12 & 19 at Heritage Park Midday Melodies, a music-at-lunchtime event in Foley’s Her- itage Park, will continue on Oct. 12 & 19 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Heritage Park in downtown Foley. Midday Melodies is a safe, socially distanced event that will take place entirely outdoors near the fountain in the park. Picnic blankets or lawn chairs are welcome. Pick up a lunch from one of Foley’s many restaurants or bring your own. The Wacked Out Weiner will be taking orders onsite and delivering to the park. Wingbeat will be on stage Oct. 12 and Les Lyden will provide en- tertainment on Oct. 19. Free parking is available around the OPTIMIST CLUB OF PERDIDO BAY MULLET FEST: Hundreds of perimeter of the park located at 104 N. McKenzie Street, just revelers came to Lillian, Alabama to celebrate Labor Day at the 36th Annual Mul- across the pedestrian bridge on Hwy. 59. For more information, let Festival hosted by the Optimist Club of Perdido Bay. Winner of the 50/50 draw- visit visitfoley.org or call the city of Foley at 251-943-1300. ing was Henry Ford. Raffle winners were Lee Hoffman, Dodd Bouchillon and Dr. Margaret Roley named Melissa Harris. Winner of the Mullet Toss in the Female Division is Myranda Rodgers with a throw of 82 ft. 5 in. Tops in the Male Division is Blake Holcomb who threw the fish 122 ft. 5 in. In addition to the contests, the Optimist Club served Chamber’s Person of the Year breakfast and lunch, provided a Bouncy House for the children, a Déjà Vu Market, Silent Auction and music by Big Jake & the Tag-A-Longs. Income from the Labor Margaret Roley, Doctor of Day Festival provides programs, scholarships and special events for children and Nursing Practice and CEO others in the Lillian area. of the South Baldwin Re- gional Medical Center, has been named the 46th Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year. This award, given annually by the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, celebrates a community leader who is consistently involved in both community and civic affairs, and is committed to helping this community grow and prosper. Dr. Roley is one of only five female business leaders hon- Innerarity apartment development surprises residents ored with the award in the past 46 year. The others were Carolyne Hollis in Complex will include 325 units within 12 buildings on 28 acres 1998, Shelia Hodges in 2009, By Charles Krupnick, President, Perdido Key Assn. and Frances Holk-Jones in Many residents of Innerarity Point and Perdido Key were sur- 2014, and Charlene Haber prised when land was cleared at the north end of the Theo Baars in 2017. Bridge for a massive apartment complex. Dr. Roley is noted to be an From the Escambia County’s “Development Order Details” web exceptional leader, has ex- page, the 13450 Perdido Key Drive site was approved for devel- cellent patient and physi- opment in January 2022 as follows (partial quotation): “Con- cian satisfaction ratings, struction of a multi-family apartment complex providing 325 and has received numerous dwelling units within 12 buildings on a 28.07-acre parcel. The executive awards for both complex will include a separate leasing office, clubhouse, and high performance and lead- maintenance building, and two garages. Site development will ership aptitude. In addition provide paved parking, a graveled area for tenant RV and boat to her 31 years of nursing storage, and one paved access each to Canal Dr. and Monterey experience, Dr. Roley’s ad- Ave.’’ ministrative expertise has The complex of 3-4 story buildings is being developed by spearheaded numerous proj- Kore/Amplo and name “Altura.” No information has been found ects within the hospital, in- on any Escambia County plans to improve the hazardous Perdido cluding the construction of a Key Drive/Canal Rd intersection likely to be used by residents of $14 million free-standing the new apartments. emergency department in For more on the project, go to myescambia.com. For a partial Gulf Shores. She has en- rendering (pictured) of the 3-4 story apartment units, go to the hanced the hospital’s in- Amplo website at amplocapital.com/projects. volvement in community Editor’s Note: For almost 35 years, the Perdido Key Association events, established (PKA) has been an information resource and public voice for Perdido processes to increase patient Key owners and residents. The organization keeps members up-to-date satisfaction, corresponded on Perdido Key Master Plan and other land-use developments, with new construction proj- progress on the Perdido Key Multi-Use Path, beach erosion and ac- ects, and assisted in the de- cess concerns, and other issues important to the future of the island. velopment and PKA directors testify before government agencies as appropriate to implementation of several help preserve and enhance the distinctive character of the Key. PKA medical training programs. also co-sponsors community events on Perdido Key such as World Born and raised in Baldwin Oceans Day in June and International Coastal Cleanup Day in Sep- County, Dr. Roley has made tember. For PKA membership info, visit perdidokeyassociation.org
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Page 18 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com COASTAL ALABAMA CHAMBER V.I.B.E. SOCIAL AT TACKY JACKS GULF SHORES
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Page 20 • The Mullet Wrapper • Oct. 5-19, 2022 • Ad. Info: 850-492-5221 • SHARE YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS• E-Mail: mulletwrapper@gulftel.com
PLEASURE ISLAND’S MYSTICS OF PLEASURE: HISTORY OF THE KREWE
By Bob “Fatback” Green and let your krewe build up over time. Don’t try to do everything $57,000!
Mardi Gras refers to events of the “Carnival” celebration, begin- at once… Parades take time to develop… Formals and balls de- • The Annual Taste of the Island Charity Ball. Hosted by The
ning on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany (Three Kings velop over time with home grown traditions…Don’t try to grow too Baldwin County Benevolent Fund along with the Krewe de Swan,
Day) and culminating on the day before Ash Wednesday, which is fast.” this “Slightly Swanky” (Island casual) event gives the attendees a
known as Shrove Tuesday. Mardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday, Well, what the nay-sayers didn’t realize was that this group of chance to taste signature dishes & drinks from over 30 local
reflecting the practice of the last night of eating rich, fatty foods be- committed partygoers were determined to create something spe- restaurants while enjoying an open bar and the beach sounds of
fore the ritual Lenten sacrifices and fasting of the Lenten season. cial, something extraordinary! When you’re giving birth to great- the world famous Tyn Tymes! One hundred percent of the proceeds
Although there are many versions of how the current day version ness, there are no molds to go by. No blueprints that fit. from this event goes to “Toys for Tots” and locals in need.
of Mardi Gras came to be, historians tell us that it was created in Boundaries must be stretched. Envelopes pushed. HIGHLIGHTS OF WHAT WE HAVE ACCOMPLISHED:
Mobile by a ship’s captain, Charles Kennerly while having dinner Therefore, our band of merry revelers approached Orange Beach • We have joined forces with a female Mardi Gras organization.
with an inventory broker named Michael Kraft in the early 1800’s. with a bold proposal. We’ll produce a parade like no other. We’ll Our new sisters are the Maidens in Pink Stilettos.
Their idea was that prior to Lent, they should have a carnival- have floats, marching bands and marchers. We’ll even have mar- • We organized two Mystics Luaus to Mexico, which start with a
type celebration. They joined with fellow jesters, who fashioned shals to keep the spectators safe. Carnival cruise out of Mobile. With over 40 cabins booked, these
rakes with bells hanging on the teeth and danced down the street We’ll advertise and promote Orange Beach and it will be the events were a crazy cruise redefining the word “Party” on Carnival
in a parade. This group became known as the Cowbellions Society biggest extravaganza on the coast. Cruise Lines!
and they later added floats pulled by horses in the early 1830’s. So early in 2000, the weekend before Ash Wednesday. The Sat- • We held annual Super Bowl parties at local restaurants, where
They grew into the country’s first mystic society (a secret and ex- urday before the infamous Fat Tuesday of Mardi Gras fame, just attendees could root for their favorite team and purchase squares
clusive group that exists solely for the purpose of parading and as dusk settled on the beach highway of a small fishing village on charity game boards for a chance to win a little spending money
throwing elaborate parties). known as Orange Beach, the grandest of all parades was begun, in and help a worthy cause!
Soon, another Mobile group known only as the T.D.S. (Tea a most untraditional way. • We started various social events such as golf tournaments, skeet
Drinkers Society) was born and, in 1857, six of their members Over 15 in number, the floats of the inaugural parade were, in and clay target shoots, beach parties and other fun events like the
moved to New Orleans and fact, boats on trailers Bourbon & Wine Dinner
formed the Mystic Krewe filled with very proud every December at the
of Comus. members, throwing Lodge at the State Park,
Our Society was During this time one of
the T.D.S. members was
The Mystics (and our beads, Moon Pies and
candies from across the
It seems like yester- all designed to boost our
local economy and show
brainstormed while Joseph Stillwell Cain,
a/k/a Chief Slacabamor-
charitable arm – The world. Marching bands
from across the county
day when we formed. our support the Mystics
way!
four gentlemen were inico ("slaka- BAM orin-
ah-CO"), who dressed as
Baldwin County participated accompanied
by honor-guards. The
Here we are, 23 years • We also have the largest
group of directors and
enjoying a few cold an Indian chief when
parading. (One of our Mys-
Benevolent Fund) marshals were dressed as
Confederate Officers rid-
later still putting on event chairmen in our
history, which proves that
adult beverages, as tics of Pleasure founding play host to several ing Harley Davidson mo- the biggest & best our krewe is here to stay
members is an ancestor of torcycles. for many years to come.
you might have Ole Joe Cain!). Joe Cain is major themed events The parade began rolling party on the Island. • The Baldwin County
credited for bringing down the beach highway Benevolent Fund, which
guessed, at Zeke’s Mardi Gras back to Mobile and we are very and ended at the Gulf Visit our website, fill is our caritable sub-
from New Orleans after State Park, which had sidiary, owns (debt-free) a
Down Under bar in the Civil War had stopped proud to donate been transformed into the out an application 5-acre parcel of land in El-
the celebration for years grandest of ballrooms berta, with the following
Orange Beach one and, in his honor, the Sun- money to several dif- where two bands rocked and get busy having amenities: A float barn,
day prior to Fat Tuesday is until late into the night. where we store the pa-
April evening in called Joe Cain Day. ferent charities The grand ball was com- fun or life will pass rade floats we own for use
Later in the 1800’s the plete with the first reign- in all of the parades we
1999. Order of Myths was throughout the year. ing queen and her court you by. participate in, which in-
formed, followed by the In- and some of the best clude: The Mystics of
fant Mystic’s. Today there seafood buffets imagina- Pleasure Night Parade –
are over 50 Mardi Gras So- ble. We did what what we held in Orange Beach
cieties in Mobile. had been told could not be done. What no one believed was possi- Saturday, prior to Fat Tuesday; The Elberta Day Parade – held
HOW THE MYSTICS OF PLEASURE FORMED ble became a reality! two Saturdays before the Orange Beach Parade; The Wharf Day
The Mystics of Pleasure Krewe was conceived from how Mardi That was twenty-one years ago. At times, during our first dozen Parade – held on Joe Cain Day – Sunday before Fat Tuesday; The
Gras was being celebrated in Mobile, the birthplace of American years we grew to over 240 members and had shrunk down to as Orange Beach Fat Tuesday Day Parade – held on Mardi Gras Day;
Carnival. (In the US, a krewe is an organization or association that few as 150 members during the economic downturn. Currently, A 1-acre fully-stocked fishing pond with a skeet shooting range sta-
stages a parade or other event for a Carnival celebration and are with a roster of 225 members, we are still one of the largest and tion built over the pond; A 100-yard rifle range with shooting bench
associated especially with Mardi Gras.) strongest Mardi Gras organizations on the Gulf Coast. (includes a 25-yard pistol range); A 2,800 Sq. Ft. climate-controlled
Our society was brainstormed while four gentlemen were enjoy- The Mystics of Pleasure (and our charitable arm – The Baldwin clubhouse, which includes a fully-furnished commercial kitchen.
ing a few cold adult beverages, as you might have guessed, at County Benevolent Fund) plays host to several major themed We are very proud of how far we’ve come, and we remember
Zeke’s Down Under bar in Orange Beach one April evening in events and is very proud to donate money to several different char- where we started. We continue to promote all of Pleasure Island.
1999. These four planned and started the first night-time parade ities throughout the year. It’s been said that, with all the events we sponsor and all the fun
on Pleasure Island. It was decided that the group should be called OVER 21 YEARS WE’VE ORGANIZED THE FOLLOWING EVENTS: and fellowship we have created, “The Mystics of Pleasure is more
The Mystics of Pleasure. • The Thunder Run Poker Run is second to none where we travel like a giant fraternity than any Mardi Gras Krewe in Mobile.”
They moved quickly, inviting two other gentlemen who became by boat, car or motorcycle to patronize many local restaurants & Our emblem was designed to encompass a giant marlin repre-
the initial board of directors. One of them had served on the board other establishments to get our poker run sheet stamped. Once the senting Orange Beach, a fishing village, a mermaid, representing
of another Mobile krewe in years past and had a copy of their con- day is over, we gather together where we receive a playing card for a beautiful lady and General Robert E. Lee, representing our Civil
stitutions & by-laws. So, with their permission, we borrowed their every stop we made. Whoever has the best poker hand wins $5,000! War Theme. Our Rooms are all named based on Civil War History.
documents that allowed us to get started. Our main thoughts • The Annual Rib-Off BBQ Competition is a KCBS sanctioned And, if you think you can’t create a “Drinking Society with a Mardi
taken from the Mobile mystical societies were to: event running in conjunction with the Frank Brown Songwriters Gras Problem” – Just tell those four guys that had over 200 mem-
• Put on a fun parade. They were told it would take at least five Festival in November. This event is growing faster than any festi- bers in its first full year!
years to produce a parade. However, it happened in 10 months, be- val on the coast and promises to be a major event on a national During our 1st Parade in 2000, we had 18 Harley Davison’s (Our
cause the City of Orange Beach wanted it. scale in a very short time. Marshals) 15 boats/floats, a Double Decker English Bus and three
• Have an elaborate party with Costume de Rigueur (White Tie & • The Annual MOP Luau has grown over the years to include as marching bands.
Tails) dress code for the men and beautiful ladies dressed in formal many as 500 attendees and has had national entertainers like The City of Orange Beach was ecstatic, except for the fact that we
dress, with good, live dance music. John Rich (of Big & Rich fame!) among others, and has always brought a semi-truck full of the original (large) Moon Pies (the
During its Incorporation the krewe was renamed Mystics of been an unbelievable event: Satellite TV for SEC football and great Snowbirds didn’t know what they were, so the next morning the
Pleasure, Inc. And the greatest Mardi Gras krewe in the history of food and drinks with some of the best friends and music anywhere streets were covered in silver bags of Moon Pies)!
mankind was created. (We’re a little biased!) in the world. This year our parade will have over 45 floats and six marching
At that time, each of the two Pleasure Island cities (Gulf Shores • The Annual $10,000 Drawdown, a fundraiser that is one of the bands and numerous other entries like truck bands, social organ-
and Orange Beach) had held day parades on Fat Tuesday with largest and most exciting events held on the Gulf Coast with fun izations and local businesses. Our membership is comprised of men
many small Mardi Gras societies, who rented floats to celebrate and great food, the highlight of which is the announcement of our from seven states with over 75% of our members residing outside
the holiday much like other neighboring cities. queen, and has proved to be another of our great successes. At- Baldwin County. Visit our website (mysticsofpleasure.com ) and
However, rather than joining the day parade, this group of rev- tendees enjoy all the food they can eat, an open bar and dancing to fill out an application to join in the fun. Get busy having fun or life
elers wanted an evening parade with all the lights and fanfare that a live band, all with a chance of winning the $10,000 grand prize! will pass you by. It seems like it was just yesterday when the
made New Orleans and Mobile Mardi Gras famous. • The Christmas in November Mega Raffle, where ticket holders Krewe was first formed and here we are 23 years later.
Members of old time krewes from Mobile County and northwest- have a daily chance (30 Prizes) to win any one of the fabulous The Mystics of Pleasure, putting on the “biggest & best party on
ern parts of Baldwin County advised us to “start slow, start small prizes available. The total value of the 30 prizes this year is over the Island.”You can also read
