Gulf Shore Getaway

Dauphin Island Sunset

Sunsets on the Gulf Coast... we never get tired of them. They're the finest in the world. Be sure to bring your camera on your next gulf shores vacation.

Peaking Through, posted today in tephdra's photostream Click on the image for a larger version.

Dauphin Island Town Council Approves Berm Funding

In a very forward looking move tonight, the Dauphin Island Town Council approved funding for 50% of the approximately $600,000 needed in matching funds for a protective berm. The other 50% of the funds will have to be collected from property owners, or from other sources with interests in Dauphin Island.

To date combined contributions and pledges from property owners total over $180,000. Tonight's decision brings the total available matching funds to nearly $500,000. Another $100,000 in matching funds is needed to match 15% of FEMA's proposal.

Pelican Gang

LNG Terminal Could Benefit Alabama

There has been no shortage (pardon the pun) of Oil and Gas news around the Gulf Coast lately. The federal government wants to relax the long-standing ban on new drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Florida, with wavering conviction in their voice, says they don't think they want it in their back yard. Oil and gas prices are rising, fueling the debate. With more money on the table and less in their pockets every time they fill up, will it be long before Florida lays out the welcome mat?

In the great State of Alabama that welcome mat is well worn. Today there is word ConocoPhillips is offering millions of dollars and environmental guarantees to Alabama if federal officials allow the company to build a liquefied natural gas terminal 60 miles south of Dauphin Island.

Beach Condo Sales at a Two-Year Low

Could it be that Gulf Shores condo sales are driven by people taking Gulf Coast vacations and discovering how darned wonderful life can be on the beach, and that there was a dip plunge in visitors and vacationers the past few months? Fewer potential buyers getting a taste of paradise might lead to fewer sales.

You might think so (and I still do) but that's not the reason gulf coast real estate professionals give...

Home mortgage interest rates are at their highest mark in 19 months, and Orange Beach and Gulf Shores condo sales in are at a two-year low.

When hurricane Ivan ripped up the Alabama Gulf Coast, many feared condo sales at the beach would plummet, but the storm had just the opposite effect. Prices soared causing even more new construction up and down the coast. Six months after Hurricane Katrina, officials say the market is slower than ever, leaving many asking why.

Why?

Update - Dauphin Island West End Water Service

Today we have an update to last week