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November 04.2025
3 Minutes Read

Orange Beach City Council Welcomes New Leaders: Embracing Change and Community Spirit

Orange Beach City Council meeting with community attendees

Welcoming New Faces to Orange Beach City Council

On November 3rd, the Orange Beach Community Center buzzed with excitement as the community gathered for the swearing-in ceremony of their new City Council members. Residents, along with council members and their families, came together to officially mark the beginning of a new four-year term. This event not only celebrated the transition of leadership but also fostered a sense of community spirit that is quintessentially Orange Beach.

A Community Potluck: Building Connections

After the formalities of the swearing-in, attendees enjoyed a monthly Community Potluck, which created an informal backdrop for residents to meet and mingle with their newly sworn representatives. Such gatherings are vital in small communities like Orange Beach, where personal connections and relationships between residents and local leaders help strengthen the fabric of civic engagement.

New Leadership Dynamics: A Look at the Council

The new City Council is a mix of familiar faces and fresh perspectives. Mayor Tony Kennon continues his leadership, while Councilman Jerry Johnson has been appointed as Chairman Pro Tem - a position that empowers him to help steer council discussions. This year, three new members have joined the ranks: Jack Robertson, Ginger Harrelson, and Robert Stuart II, who all promise to bring their unique viewpoints as they step in to fill the shoes of their predecessors.

Embracing the Future: Meeting Schedule and Community Involvement

With a unanimous vote, the council agreed to maintain its regular meeting schedule on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, continuing a tradition that promotes transparency and encourages public participation. Public meetings serve not only as a platform for discussing community issues but also foster deeper engagement among residents - crucial for a community that thrives on participation.

Reflecting on the Past: Gratitude to Outgoing Members

As the new term begins, it’s important to pause and acknowledge the contributions of the outgoing council members who have devoted their time and effort to shaping Orange Beach into the vibrant community it is today. Annette Mitchell, Jeff Boyd, and Joni Blalock each left their mark, and their dedication has laid a solid foundation for future leaders.

Why Local Events Matter: Strengthening Community Bonds

Events like the swearing-in ceremony and potluck play a crucial role in local communities, especially in bustling areas like Orange Beach. They are opportunities for residents to connect, reflect, and engage, reminding us all of our shared goals. The passion for civic togetherness fosters not just local pride but also collective action, especially important for a community that faces the challenges of weather events and evolving tourism demands.

Join the Conversation and Engage

As the new City Council embarks on its journey, residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming meetings and community events. Engagement is key in maintaining the warmth of Orange Beach and ensuring every voice is heard. Be part of the ongoing conversations shaping your community, and don’t miss out on the opportunity to share your thoughts and dreams for the future of Orange Beach.

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01.21.2026

Pensacola Celebrates: Apalachicola Bay Reopens for Oyster Harvesting

Update A Seafood Delight Returns: Apalachicola Bay Reopens for Harvesting Pensacola, Florida is buzzing with excitement as Apalachicola Bay reopens for oyster harvesting after a five-year hiatus. This iconic bay, once responsible for producing over 90% of Florida’s oysters, officially commenced its harvest season on January 1, 2026, and is set to run until the end of February. The anticipation surrounding this event is palpable among seafood lovers and local fishermen alike. A Community Rejoices The reopening has been heralded as a tremendous morale boost for the local community and seafood businesses. “Oysters are one of, if not the most, beloved seafood item that people can buy,” remarks Cartr Scarritt, director of merchandising for Joe Patti’s Seafood in Pensacola. The demand is high, and the excitement can be felt in the air as restaurants prepare to serve what many consider a quintessential Floridian treat. The Path to Reopening: Lessons Learned In 2020, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) made the difficult decision to close the bay to allow the oyster populations to recover from years of overharvesting and environmental stressors, including reduced freshwater flow. State investments totaling over $38 million have been made toward habitat restoration, laying the groundwork for the revival of this seafood staple. Despite this reopening, experts caution that the bay is unlikely to return to its former glory. Various factors, including changed freshwater dynamics due to upstream development and climate change, have led to a fundamental shift in the bay's ecosystem. Understanding these complexities helps drive home the importance of sustainable practices and proactive environmental management. A Taste of Tradition in Every Shell Oysters from Apalachicola Bay are renowned for their unique flavor, attributed to the specific sandy conditions of the bay. The sentiment among locals is palpable—Angela Roberts, a devoted oyster enthusiast, states, "People are in for a real treat when they get to see the real, true oysters that should be coming out." The pricing reflects both quality and demand; a 25-pound box is fetching about $50 and quickly disappearing from retailers’ shelves. Future Prospects and Local Community Resilience With hopes for a future filled with more harvest seasons from October to February, there’s cautious optimism among fishermen and seafood vendors. They’re keen to see Apalachicola Bay thrive, not just to boost sales, but to preserve a cherished local tradition. Innovations in sustainable seafood practices may hold the key to balancing thriving commercial interests with environmental stewardship, ensuring this beloved resource endures for generations. Your Invitation to Celebrate As Pensacola and its surrounding communities prepare to enjoy the return of Apalachicola Bay oysters, it’s an opportunity for all seafood lovers to indulge and appreciate this local gem. By supporting restaurants or purchasing directly from local seafood markets, you contribute to the recovery of a proud tradition. Celebrating the return of the oysters not only enhances your culinary experiences but also strengthens community ties and supports local economies. So, whether you're savoring them raw, fried, or baked, each oyster carries with it the hope and resilience of a community reborn.

01.20.2026

Concerns Rise Following Boat Motor Thefts in Orange Beach Community

Update Recent Thefts Raise Concerns in Orange Beach CommunityIn the beautiful coastal town of Orange Beach, known for its scenic views and vibrant boating culture, a recent surge in boat motor thefts has left residents and fishermen alike feeling uneasy. With the call for vigilance, the local authorities are making rounds to ensure safety along our beloved Gulf Coast.Understanding the Local Boating CultureOrange Beach isn’t just a tourist destination; it's a thriving community where boating represents recreation, livelihood, and a deeper connection to the ocean. The theft of boat motors, which are crucial for daily operations, disrupts this unique way of life. The local fishermen, who rely on reliable motors to navigate the waters, feel the ripple effects of these crimes.A Broader Issue: Theft Trends in Coastal AreasOver the past few years, the issue of boat-related thefts isn’t isolated to Orange Beach alone but highlights a troubling trend affecting marinas across the Gulf Coast. Investigations show connections between thefts that span from Alabama to Florida, pointing towards a more organized approach to these crimes. With $177,000 in losses reported due to such incidents, community members are urged to lock up and remain vigilant.Community Safety EffortsThe Orange Beach Police Department is stepping up to combat this rise in crime with increased patrols in known vulnerable areas. Residents are also encouraged to participate actively in community watch programs that foster a sense of neighborly bonding while ensuring safety. The police urge beachgoers and boat owners to report any suspicious activity promptly.How Can You Help and Stay Informed?To maintain the charm and safety of Orange Beach, staying informed and participating in community initiatives is key. Local marinas are hosting meetings to discuss safety protocols and encourage networking among boat owners. By fostering a community-driven approach, residents can protect their assets and preserve the beauty of our beach life.This is a collective responsibility, and every member of the Orange Beach community plays a vital role in thwarting crime. Your engagement will not only safeguard your belongings but also uphold the integrity and spirit of our beloved coastal town.

01.20.2026

Everything You Need to Know About Pensacola's New Costco Superstore

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