Gulf Coast Media

09/04/2024

Animal lovers in Baldwin County have an opportunity to support a vital cause while enjoying a night of entertainment, gourmet food and camaraderie at The Haven's Tails of Hope Gala.

The event, scheduled for Oct. 10 at Glory Farms in Magnolia Springs, promises an unforgettable evening dedicated to rescuing and rehoming homeless pets.

Animal lovers in Baldwin County have an opportunity to support a vital cause while enjoying a night of entertainment, gourmet food and camaraderie at The Haven's Tails of Hope Gala. The event, …

09/04/2024

Enjoy the start of September with a variety of exciting events along the Alabama Gulf Coast.

Whether you're a writer looking to hone your craft, a thrill-seeker eager for a rodeo experience or simply searching for a taste of local seafood, there's something for everyone this weekend. You can explore the paranormal at a historic mansion, test your athletic prowess in a triathlon or get hands-on with creative LEGO builds at a family-friendly convention.

Enjoy the start of September with a variety of exciting events along the Alabama Gulf Coast. Whether you're a writer looking to hone your craft, a thrill-seeker eager for a rodeo experience or …

09/04/2024

Hatch Fairhope has a clear purpose: Build the tech ecosystem in Baldwin County.

That vision took another step forward on Thursday, Aug. 22, as Hatch Fairhope powered by Bessel held it's first-ever Medical Innovation Cohort Finale. The event allowed participants to showcase their new companies and pitch to potential investors and community stakeholders following the 10-week program.

Hatch Fairhope has a clear purpose: Build the tech ecosystem in Baldwin County. That vision took another step forward on Thursday, Aug. 22, as Hatch Fairhope powered by Bessel held it's …

09/04/2024

What was already a massive, 10-year-in-the-making local investment in Baldwin County recently became the largest capital investment in the coastal Alabama county to date.

Novelis, an aluminum solutions provider and the world leader in aluminum rolling and recycling, updated its projection from the plant it is building at the former South Alabama Megasite in Bay Minette from $2.5 billion to $4.1 billion, according to the company in its third quarter fiscal year 2024 report.

The plant will be the first fully integrated aluminum mill built in the United States in 40 years and will be primarily powered by renewable energy, use recycled water and be a zero-waste facility. When announced in 2022, it was the largest project in company history.

Head to the link in our bio to read more on this historic investment.

✍️: Kayla Green / Gulf Coast Media

09/04/2024

Hollywood isn't the only place for canine stars to shine.

Right here in Baldwin County, your dog could become the next big thing in theater, captivating audiences as the lovable "Sandy" in Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre's (ESRT) upcoming production of "Annie JR." This fall, ESRT is giving local dogs the chance to step into the spotlight, with open auditions set for Sept. 14 in Daphne.

Hollywood isn't the only place for canine stars to shine. Right here in Baldwin County, your dog could become the next big thing in theater, captivating audiences as the lovable "Sandy" in …

09/04/2024

One of the most effective ways to manage your weight and health is to eat a nutritious diet with whole foods.

But even as you build healthy eating habits, you may find yourself in need of a quick meal when you're on a tight schedule.

Hers took a look at the nutrition facts of sandwiches, including burgers, at 10 of the largest fast food chains in the country to discover the healthiest (and unhealthiest) options to help you make mindful choices when you're on the go.

Hers took a look at the nutrition facts of sandwiches, including burgers, at 10 of the largest fast food chains in the country to discover the healthiest and unhealthiest options.

09/04/2024

As Foley continues to grow, city planners and engineers are working to address increasing traffic challenges, including speeding, congestion and overall safety.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich emphasized the city's commitment to keeping traffic moving while ensuring streets remain safe.

"Foley is aware that with the increase in our population that traffic is an issue," Hellmich said. "We're working in several areas to handle that, whether it's mitigating speed or other solutions. We're trying to keep traffic moving at a safe speed all over the city."

As Foley continues to grow, city planners and engineers are working to address increasing traffic challenges, including speeding, congestion and overall safety. Mayor Ralph Hellmich emphasized …

09/03/2024

Changes are coming to what types of trees homeowners can remove from their property with an emphasis on replacing them with local trees.

Gulf Shores City Council amended the city's tree protection ordinance during a council meeting Aug. 12, which allows for the removal of protected pine trees on single family and duplex lots if previous criteria for tree removal cannot be met.

GULF SHORES — Changes are coming to what types of trees homeowners can remove from their property with an emphasis on replacing them with local trees. Gulf Shores City Council amended the …

09/03/2024

Louisiana native and comedian Jen Kober is set to bring her unique brand of Southern humor to Gulfport, Mississippi, on Sept. 7, with a performance at Elephant in the Room.

Kober, known for her energetic storytelling and sharp wit, has captivated audiences across the country with her hilarious take on life's quirks. With roots in the South, Kober has crafted a comedic style that is both relatable and side-splittingly funny, drawing from her upbringing and diverse experiences.

Louisiana native and comedian Jen Kober is set to bring her unique brand of Southern humor to Gulfport, Mississippi, on Sept. 7, with a performance at Elephant in the Room. Kober, known for her …

09/03/2024

2024 might be the year of the dragon but in Baldwin County, it’s also the year of the experienced returner as nearly all 13 local football teams return multiple athletes who have already played meaningful varsity football.

Whether it’s rising sophomore quarterbacks, like Gunner Rivers at St. Michael or Judson Harris at Gulf Shores, or established veterans in the middle like linebackers Billy Neill from Bayside Academy and Corbitt Williams from Elberta, it won’t be hard for any fan to watch experienced varsity players on Friday nights.

2024 might be the year of the dragon, but in Baldwin County it’s also the year of the experienced returner as nearly all 13 local football teams return multiple athletes who have already played …

09/03/2024

What was already a massive, 10-year-in-the-making local investment in Baldwin County recently became the largest capital investment in the coastal Alabama county to date.

Novelis, an aluminum solutions provider and the world leader in aluminum rolling and recycling, updated its projection from the plant it is building at the former South Alabama Megasite in Bay Minette from $2.5 billion to $4.1 billion, according to the company in its third quarter fiscal year 2024 report.
The plant will be the first fully integrated aluminum mill built in the United States in 40 years and will be primarily powered by renewable energy, use recycled water and be a zero-waste facility.

What was already a massive, 10-year-in-the-making local investment in Baldwin County recently became the largest capital investment in the coastal Alabama county to date. Novelis, an aluminum …

09/03/2024

When the competition for talent is fierce, employers need to find ways to improve staff retention and be attractive to potential employees.

Professional development can be a win-win benefit—employees develop skills they need to achieve their career goals, while companies improve efficiency and stay on top of changes in technology and the marketplace.

More than 8 in 10 employees expect employers to provide some form of professional development so they can improve their skill sets in ever-changing work environments, according to edX. Many employees might pursue professional development opportunities because they enjoy the challenge of learning something new, hope to improve their performance, or are working toward a promotion.

How do employers help their staff refine and develop their skills? Xactly identified some top professional development benefits employers offer.

09/03/2024

The Baldwin County Education Coalition has partnered with JLS International to establish the JLS International Vocational Scholarship Endowment Fund, aimed at supporting students pursuing Career and Technical Education (CTE) in the county's public schools.

The official signing of the agreement took place on July 31, marking a significant step toward enhancing opportunities for local students interested in vocational careers. The endowment, launched with a $500,000 commitment from JLS International, is expected to reach $1 million, exclusively benefiting CTE students.

The Baldwin County Education Coalition has partnered with JLS International to establish the JLS International Vocational Scholarship Endowment Fund, aimed at supporting students pursuing Career and …

09/02/2024

Daphne Utilities has received national recognition for its compliance with water quality standards.

The company was honored at the National Association of Clean Water Agencies' (NACWA) 2024 Utility Leadership Conference, held July 24 in Buffalo, New York.

Daphne Utilities was among the select few recognized during the conference, where NACWA presented its annual Peak Performance Awards.

Daphne Utilities has received national recognition for its compliance with water quality standards. The company was honored at the National Association of Clean Water Agencies' (NACWA) 2024 …

09/02/2024

The Baldwin County High School Tigerettes have danced their way to the top, earning a bid for nationals after their performance at the Universal Dance Camp held at the University of Southern Mississippi according to a news release.

The Tigerettes secured a superior rating as well as earning the highest honors in individual evaluations, receiving all superior blue ribbons. They also clinched the Drill Down Team winner title and collected numerous gold drill down ribbons, marking their dominance in the competition.

The Baldwin County High School Tigerettes have danced their way to the top, earning a bid for nationals after their performance at the Universal Dance Camp held at the University of Southern …

09/02/2024

No garment has shown the difficult history of society's relationship with the female body quite like swimwear. To add insult to injury—from the Roman baths to Naomi Campbell yachting on the Mediterranean—Western humankind is making progress toward exactly where it started: acceptance of the bare female body.

The in-between is where it gets complicated, layered, and painful as social norms forced women to cover up in layers of wool in the hot heat and arrested them for the temerity of challenging social conventions. Only recently have women been given more autonomy over the layers they choose for their own bodies—and even then not universally or globally.

Swimply explores the political history of women's swimwear using various sources, such as Smithsonian Magazine and the Fashion Institute of Technology.

09/02/2024

Starting a school garden is not as far out of reach as some may think. Knowing how to secure funding, get started and maintain the garden are great things to consider but are not something to fear.

"I've been working in community and school gardens for more than 10 years," said Carmen Flammini, an Alabama Cooperative Extension System home grounds regional agent. "One thing I can tell you is that you have to create a community to make a school garden successful."

AUBURN UNIVERSITY — Starting a school garden is not as far out of reach as some may think. Knowing how to secure funding, get started and maintain the garden are great things to consider but …

09/02/2024

Sometimes, an extra five minutes of sleep isn't a bad thing.

Sleep is a cornerstone of health, essential for both physical and emotional well-being. Yet, despite sleep being just as vital to our health as proper nutrition and regular exercise, in today's fast-paced world, it's often the first thing sacrificed.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sleep is essential for the body to repair itself, consolidate memories and regulate hormones. Without adequate rest, you are more likely to suffer from chronic health conditions. Getting enough sleep can help reduce the risk of illness, aid in maintaining a healthy weight and improve both mood and heart health. Proper sleep also enhances cognitive functions, such as attention and memory, making daily tasks easier and reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, sufficient sleep lowers the likelihood of developing chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.

Sometimes, an extra five minutes of sleep isn't a bad thing. Sleep is a cornerstone of health, essential for both physical and emotional well-being. Yet, despite sleep being just as vital to our …

09/02/2024

Last week, Governor Kay Ivey announced an $875,000 grant to bolster efforts in providing care for r**e victims throughout the state.

The Alabama Coalition Against R**e (ACAR) will utilize the funds to support its 15 member agencies, enhancing their ability to offer crucial services and training according to a news release.

The grant will fund training and technical assistance for first responders handling r**e and sexual assault cases, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective intervention.

This week, Governor Kay Ivey announced an $875,000 grant to bolster efforts in providing care for r**e victims throughout the state. The Alabama Coalition Against R**e (ACAR) will utilize the …

09/01/2024

This summer, USA Health welcomed 34 teen volunteers to its Children's & Women's Hospital and University Hospital campuses. The program provided a unique opportunity for the teens to engage directly with patients and staff, contributing over 1,000 volunteer hours across various roles.

At Children's & Women's Hospital, the teen volunteers enriched the pediatric tower experience, spending quality time with patients and their families during a special summer camp. Meanwhile, at University Hospital, they helped spread cheer with the jolly trolley, distributing treats and assisted with patient access services, where patients are admitted.

This summer, USA Health welcomed 34 teen volunteers to its Children's & Women's Hospital and University Hospital campuses. The program provided a unique opportunity for the teens to engage …

09/01/2024

A gruff middle-aged detective (Nick Nolte) springs a young street-smart bank robber (Eddie Murphy) from prison to help him catch his late partner's killers. Hijinks ensue and an unlikely partnership is forged. With that setup, seamlessly blending humor with action, the 1982 film "48 Hrs." established the buddy cop formula: Two opposites come together to fight crime and, often, each other—and provide the actors playing them plenty of room to demonstrate chemistry and comedic timing. Backstage reveals what you need to know about the genre, along with a lineup of the best buddy cop movies.

Backstage reveals what you need to know about the film industry's buddy cop formula and a lineup of great buddy cop movies.

09/01/2024

With the frequency of natural disasters on the rise, it's a good idea to think about the components of your house and whether they are built to withstand wicked weather.

Fortunately, manufacturers are stepping up to the plate to create home building products that are stronger and more reliable in the face of hurricanes, wildfires and other disasters.

If you're building a home or re-roofing your current property, be sure to talk to your contractor about what roofing products they are using, and ask about innovative steel products best-suited for your region. Whether you live in a hurricane-prone coastal community or in the path of wildfires, steel roofing can offer additional protection for your home.

With the frequency of natural disasters on the rise, it's a good idea to think about the components of your house and whether they are built to withstand wicked weather. Fortunately, …

09/01/2024

Get ready for a night where fashion meets philanthropy with a dash of outrageous fun. The 9th Annual Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast Gala is gearing up, and this year, Magnolia Soap and Bath Co. is stepping into the spotlight as the presenting sponsor.

The Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast Gala is no ordinary fundraiser. It's an evening where local businessmen strut down the runway donning whimsical, one-of-a-kind bras, which are then auctioned off to the highest bidder — all for a good cause.

The proceeds from these bra auctions, along with generous donations, directly support local cancer patients who are struggling with the financial burdens of their treatment.

Get ready for a night where fashion meets philanthropy with a dash of outrageous fun. The 9th Annual Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast Gala is gearing up, and this year, Magnolia Soap and Bath Co. is …

09/01/2024

Aspiring politicians and seasoned officeholders alike will have the opportunity to sharpen their campaign skills at a bipartisan campaign school hosted by the Alabama Farmers Federation on Oct. 1. The event, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., will be held at the Alfa Insurance Co. home office, located at 2108 E. South Blvd. in Montgomery.

According to a news release, the Alabama Farmers Federation has a proven track record of helping to launch successful political careers. Past attendees of these campaign schools have gone on to become state senators, representatives, judges, city and county officials and even constitutional officers.

Aspiring politicians and seasoned officeholders alike will have the opportunity to sharpen their campaign skills at a bipartisan campaign school hosted by the Alabama Farmers Federation on Oct. 1. …

09/01/2024

Yum!

Senior culinary students at Baldwin Preparatory Academy rolled up their sleeves and got to work on Aug. 26, crafting homemade lasagna from scratch as part of the academy's culinary curriculum.

Under the guidance of Chef Veronica Monsegur, the students dove into the intricate process of making lasagna. The students began by preparing their own pasta dough, which they ran through a pasta maker until it was thin enough to form delicate sheets.

The next step involved layering the pasta sheets with a medley of ingredients: spinach, ricotta cheese, Bolognese sauce and mozzarella. To top it all off, they added a housemade Béchamel sauce, a classic touch that elevated the dish to restaurant quality.

According to Monsegur, these are skills the students will be able to use throughout their careers.

Senior culinary students at Baldwin Preparatory Academy rolled up their sleeves and got to work on Aug. 26, crafting homemade lasagna from scratch as part of the academy's culinary curriculum. …

08/31/2024

Bay Minette City Council recently honored several members of the Bay Minette Fire Department for their response to a chaotic multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 65 on July 9.

The accident, a chain-reaction event involving 20 vehicles in five separate collisions, left two people in critical condition and 11 others with minor injuries. According to a news release, the firefighters quickly sprang to action, demonstrating their skill and dedication under pressure.

Bay Minette City Council recently honored several members of the Bay Minette Fire Department for their response to a chaotic multi-vehicle accident on Interstate 65 on July 9. The accident, a …

08/31/2024

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), America's Poison Centers as well as state and local agencies are investigating reports of severe acute illnesses potentially linked to consuming Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones and gummies.

As of Aug. 21, testing has revealed significant concerns with Diamond Shruumz products.

The investigation began earlier this year when 12 cases of severe illness spanning eight states, including Alabama, were reported. According to a previous Gulf Coast Media article, these cases, which occurred between March 30 and June 9, involved patients aged 15 to 44, with 10 individuals requiring hospitalization at that time.

In Baldwin County, products may have been sold at Razor Vapes in Foley, located at 8097 State Hwy. 59. Consumers may have also purchased Diamond Shruumz products online.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), America's Poison Centers as well as state and local agencies are investigating reports of severe …

08/31/2024

Fall armyworms are plaguing pastures and hayfields in many areas of Alabama. These pests can quickly invade and destroy a stand of healthy forages in a manner of hours. This makes scouting extremely important for producers to be able to treat infestations early before too much damage occurs.

Alabama is currently facing a massive outbreak of fall armyworms. While rain patterns may be playing a role in the outbreak, entomologists with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System are certain that recent high temperatures are a factor.

AUBURN UNIVERSITY — Fall armyworms are plaguing pastures and hayfields in many areas of Alabama. These pests can quickly invade and destroy a stand of healthy forages in a manner of hours. This …

08/31/2024

As Labor Day approaches, Baldwin County residents are reminded of the significance of hard work — a value deeply ingrained in the community.

This holiday, originally established to honor the American labor movement, now serves as a moment to appreciate the efforts of workers and consider the balance between work and personal life, a topic that remains relevant across Alabama.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 58.6% of Baldwin County's population aged 16 and over were part of the civilian labor force from 2018 to 2022. This statistic reflects the county's robust workforce, contributing to Alabama's 18th-place ranking in WalletHub's 2024 report on the Hardest-Working States in America. Alabama scored particularly well in average workweek hours (14th) and employment rate (7th), showcasing the state's strong work ethic.

As Labor Day approaches, Baldwin County residents are reminded of the significance of hard work — a value deeply ingrained in the community. This holiday, originally established to honor …

08/31/2024

Someone was walking their cat when they first noticed it. Others learned about it on TikTok and rushed to see it in person. "It is a marriage proposal that will be revealed soon," a person predicted. Another quipped, "Stuff like this is for us to get excited."

These are Swifties trying to decode Taylor Swift's latest album teaser: supersized QR Code murals in Chicago and other cities in the U.S. and 13 other locations. It came just a week before her new album, "The Tortured Poets Department" (TTPD), was launched on April 19.

The QR Code campaign was something Swift hasn't done in recent memory, and it triggered an avalanche of fan fiction, spurred a tranche of news cycles, and ignited a social media discourse. From a marketing standpoint, the campaign was an ex*****on brilliance and a case study of using QR Codes for an omnichannel campaign. Millions engaged with the campaign, generating much buzz for days before the album's release.

Uniqode reports on what made Taylor Swift's QR Code campaign successful and what lessons any business can learn from it.