Gulf Shore Getaway

Christmas by the Bay nearing goal

The three-day, holiday-gift show

Financial Times - on Dauphin Island

Strange that with all the building going on the Financial Times would focus on the west end of Dauphin Island. If Dauphin Island's economy does indeed depend on vacationers and the tourism industry - no argument there - then why would their reporter on Dauphin Island not mention all of the very large condominium complexes currently under development on the island?

Ill winds blow a beachfront paradise no good

It is easy to understand what attracted Richard Pinegar and his family to Dauphin Island, Alabama. From the terrace of their elevated seafront home, they look down on the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico lapping against an idyllic white sand beach, just footsteps away.

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Perdido Key Open for Vacationers

Perdido Key is getting back on track to rebuild after recent storms. At issue has been how to maintain protection for key Perdido Key beach mouse habitat. Recently an agreement was reached on funding for habitat conservation and maintenance, as well as housing density. The agreement will ensure our little furry friends are well protected.

This story is not unlike the recent concern for the Alabama beach mouse on Dauphin Island. In the case of Perdido Key, however, local officials and conservationists have moved ahead aggressively to put a plan in place to provide for a well-managed plan in place for both the local tourism economy and the habitat for the Perdido Key beach mouse.

Boating on the Gulf Coast

OK a couple of important lessons here for those of you planning to head out on the Gulf for a day of sailing...

• Bring your cell phone. Who knows, you might feel like chatting with someone while you wait for the Coast Guard to come pluck you out of the water


• Know that when you call them, they'll come. And they might just issue a press release about it and make the whole thing available on video for anyone who wants it.