Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Coffee Break
Coffee Break
- The Haven will be holding its first low-cost life-saving Rabies and Microchip Clinic for 2012 at the Eastern Shore Pet Hospital on Plantation Blvd in Fairhope on January 28. The times will be 11am to 3pm. Dr. Ron Shindler and his dedicated staff will be administering the rabies shots and microchips to those who want one or both. “The Haven’s mission of eliminating euthanasia as a means of animal control is a noble one and we want to be part of that,” said Dr. Shindler. The price will be $10 for a rabies shot and $10 for a microchip. The Haven will also be transporting some of their available animals to the event via their M.A.R.U. (Mobile Animal Rescue Unit) and offering them for adoption.
- Come join the fun on January 28th, from 2-4 pm in Fairhope when the Eastern Shore Shopping Centre will hold a “Mardi Gras Mingle”, with proceeds going to The Haven, an adoption-guarantee animal shelter. It’s a progressive cocktail experience where each person pays $25 for food, and a T-shirt. Participants start at one location, where the appetizers are plentiful and drinks are inexpensive, moving on to the next restaurant. Reservations and pre-payment are required, with a maximum of 50 individuals. Participating restaurants include Wintzell’s Oyster House, California Dreaming, Poor Mexican, and Twist Cupcakes. A reservation deadline of January 18th can be made with Kristen at kkammer@easternshorecentre.com or by calling at 251-625-0060.
- February 4th at 11:00 am join us for the 18th Annual “Super” Chili Bowl Cook-off at the Flora-Bama Lounge & Oyster Bar in Pensacola. Proceeds go to the American Cancer Society Relay for Life. Event includes food, original music, free beer and other give-a-ways for participants. Entry fee is $50.00 per (3 person) team. For more info contact 251-980-5118.
- The Flower Seminar this year will be Feb. 8 at the Erie Meyer Civic Center in Gulf Shores. The Guest speaker Marie Harrison will present a program “Reaching for New Heights in Floral Design.” A light lunch will be served; we will have door prizes and a raffle. Program starts at 10 a.m. and doors open at 9:15. Advance tickets are $15 and tickets available for purchase at Jubilee Apparel and gifts 701 Gulf Shores Parkway (next to Original Oyster House) or the Gulf Shores Public Library or contact: Diane Nowicki at 251-974-6606, or e-mail Diane at dianded@gulftel.com or contact Mindy Jones at 251-968-9777, or e-mail Mindy at islandenclosures@gulftel.com. Proceeds benefit Gulf Shores Garden Club Scholarship Fund.
- February 6th and 7th at 7:30 pm at the Erie Meyer Civic Center in Gulf Shores, In the Mood presents their retro 1940′s musical revue with singers, dancers and the sensational String of Pearls Big Band Orchestra. For more information visit www.cityofgulfshores.org or call (251) 968-1172.
- North Baldwin Community Concerts presents Tribute to Hank Williams, Sr. starring Las Vegas Impersonator as Hank. Concert will be on February 14th at 7:00 pm at Faulkner Community College Performing Arts Center in Bay Minette. Tickets are $20.00 and will be available for sale at the door prior to concert. Don’t miss this wonderful country music show!
- February 18, 2012 (Saturday before Mardi Gras) MARDI GRAS FEST 3 in Bay Minette at Halliday Park, 300 McMeans Avenue (Highway 59). 10am-6pm. Entertainment TBA. Vendors, Demonstrations, Kids Zone. LIFESouth Blood Drive. Moon Pie Eating Contest sponsored by Toomey’s Mardi Gras. 7th Annual Mystic Revelers Mardi Gras Parade 12pm, MARDI GRAS FEST is on parade route. Free admission and parking. Presented by Bay Minette Civic Club, benefits Charity Fund. Sponsors and Vendors needed. www.bmcivicclub.com 251-463-1909.
- February 20th at 2:00 pm The Wharf Kids Mardi Gras Parade on Main Street at the Wharf. Watch and enjoy as revelers throw sweets, trinkets, beads and toys. Admission is free!
- LuLu’s 8th Anniversary Celebration and Boat Parade February 21st. Join us on Fat Tuesday for our 8th Anniversary Celebration and Boat Parade. Parade leaves the Wharf at 3:00 pm and ends at LuLu’s. Doors open at 10:00 am. Live music from Glen David Andrews and Sugarcane Jane.
Do you have an upcoming event you’d like to share in Coffee Break? Please email submissions, at least two weeks in advance to editor@tidbitsbc.com
Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Editor’s Note
I’ve had the pleasure of crossing paths with and meeting a number of Snowbirds this week. From my own condo complex to restaurants and even the doctor’s office, Snowbirds are enjoying their time in Baldwin County and we are pleased when they smile and mention that they are reading Tidbits during their stay. We’ve even had a few drop in our Foley office and pick up back issues of Tidbits and we are always happy to provide those when available.
Our family truly enjoys the slower pace of the winter season but with the weather warming, we are hopeful families and visitors will choose to head south for a weekend getaway. I’ve been urging some of our family to make the trip for golf, fishing and some great dining. I’m hoping everyone else takes on the philosophy of, “Come on down and invite your friends!”.
Wishing everyone a wonderful week,
Audrey Chambers
Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Weekly Stopping In
Reply
Calypso Joe’s Caribbean Grille
When our waitress smiled and introduced herself as “Peachie”, we knew we were in for a great dining experience. We debated on an appetizer choice and Peachie swayed our vote by strongly recommending the Cuban nachos and she didn’t steer us wrong. The thin, crispy nachos arrived at our table hot and piled high with pulled pork, black beans, cheese, salsa, sour cream and cilantro. They were delicious and, at one point, I found my 12 year old boxing me out from the right side of the plate.
Our entrees included mahi-mahi topped with grilled shrimp and cream sauce, a hamburger, a shrimp po-boy and fish fingers. After swapping bites, our family was in agreement that every entree was well seasoned, perfectly cooked and generously portioned. Fellow diners seemed to agree as we overheard the friendly wait staff receiving positive feedback from their customers.
We look forward to stopping in at Calypso Joe’s Caribbean Grille again very soon. Not only is the food great but so is the service and quaint, casual atmosphere which is very kid friendly. The restaurant also offers a nice marina view however, during our visit, it was too chilly for us to enjoy dining outdoors. You can visit Calypso Joe’s at 27075 Marina Rd. in Orange Beach. You can also view their online menu on their website at www.calypsojoes.com.
Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Weekly Faith Corner
Christians and Boundaries: Five Causes of Weak Boundaries
by Karla Downing
Christians need boundaries but often don’t have them in their relationships. Here are five causes of weak boundaries:
1. You were raised in a dysfunctional home where boundaries weren’t modeled. As a result, you don’t know what healthy boundaries are and don’t recognize that you need to have them. You may believe that a wife submits to her husband in everything and isn’t entitled to say no. You may believe that a husband loves by tolerating and overlooking everything. You may believe that a parent shows love by saying yes to everything.
2. You believe that being a good Christian means that you tolerate everything while forgiving and giving. There are many misconceptions that Christians have that result in doing unhealthy things in relationships. Yes, we need to forgive as opposed to holding bitterness and resentment, but you can forgive while having boundaries so the person cannot continue to harm you. And of course you need to give, but the giving needs to be balanced and voluntary.
3. You recognize your relationship isn’t healthy but don’t know what your boundaries are. You doubt your feelings, thoughts, and perceptions. Boundaries require clarity. You have to be able to clearly see what your responsibilities are and what the responsibilities of the other person are. Self doubt prevents you from being clear and makes you vulnerable to believing what the other person says over yourself.
4. You are afraid to set boundaries because you know the person won’t respect them and you will have to figure out what to do about the boundary violation. The more difficult the person, the more your boundaries will be challenged. Boundary-less people are often like two-year-olds. They are strong-willed and defiant and will test your limits.
5. You would rather give in to keep the peace because you are uncomfortable with conflict. Boundaries often result in conflict, especially when you start to set them and the person isn’t used to you having them. If you want to avoid conflict, setting boundaries will be difficult for you. But until you risk speaking the truth and drawing lines, nothing will change and things may get worse.
If you are a Christian and boundaries are difficult for you, identify which of these five causes are to blame and begin to work on developing your ability to have boundaries. God wants us to have boundaries in relationships.
Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Weekly Business Spotlight
Be-jeweled Jewelers
It’s difficult to step into Be-jeweled Jewelers and not feel like royalty. Your eyes can barely absorb the beauty of the wide assortment of gold, diamond, gemstone and sterling silver jewelry and the knowledge you will find behind the glass cases is beyond compare. Mother and son team, Shirley Harris and Spencer Harris know the jewelry business. They have been at their current location for two years and in the business for over eight years. In addition to their beautiful jewelry selection, Be-jeweled also offers gift items and in house engraving and jewelry repair. The Harris’ take great pride in the fact that every single piece of jewelry in their store is hand picked and most pieces are made in the USA.
There are no high pressure sales tactics used at Be-jeweled. You are welcomed in and encouraged to browse the store. The wants and needs of customers are listened to and everyone is treated like family. You are sure to find a deal at Be-jeweled and there is currently a closeout sale on selected diamond jewelry and watches with up to 50% off to make room for new summer styles.
Be-jeweled offers competitive prices on precious metals so remember to bring in your broken or unwanted jewelry. You can visit Be-jeweled Jewelers at 1140 Gulf Shores Pkwy., Suite D in Gulf Shores. Their hours of operation are Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Coffee Break
South Baldwin Chamber Open House, January 12, 2012 at 3:00 pm. The Chamber Staff and Board of Directors invite everyone to visit and tour the new Chamber offices located at 112 W. Laurel Avenue in downtown Foley.
The Friends of the Foley Public Library is holding its annual book sale for 2012 on Friday, January 20 from 9am to 5pm and Saturday, January 21 from 9am to 1pm. The sale concludes on Saturday from 11am to 1pm when you can purchase a large Tanger shopping bag for $3.00 and fill it with books. Prior to the general public book sale, on Thursday January 19 from 5:30pm to 7:30pm we have the annual preview party. This wine and cheese party is held for Friends of the Library members and it gives members first chance at all the books for sale with a great selection. Members are asked to bring wine and appetizers to share. You can also join the Friends of the Library at the event so you can take part in the preview party. All proceeds from the book sale help fund the Foley Public Library.
Come join the fun on January 28th, from 2-4pm in Fairhope when the Eastern Shore Shopping Centre will hold a “Mardi Gras Mingle”, with proceeds going to The Haven, an adoption-guarantee animal shelter. It’s a progressive cocktail experience where each person pays $25 for food, and a T-shirt. Participants start at one location, where the appetizers are plentiful and drinks are inexpensive, moving on to the next restaurant. Reservations and pre-payment are required, with a maximum of 50 individuals. Participating restaurants include Wintzell’s Oyster House, California Dreaming, Poor Mexican, and Twist Cupcakes. A reservation deadline of January 18th can be made with Kristen at kkammer@easternshorecentre.com or by calling at 251-625-0060.
February 18, 2012 (Saturday before Mardi Gras) MARDI GRAS FEST 3 in Bay Minette at Halliday Park, 300 McMeans Avenue (Highway 59). 10am-6pm. Entertainment TBA. Vendors, Demonstrations, Kids Zone. LIFESouth Blood Drive. Moon Pie Eating Contest sponsored by Toomey’s Mardi Gras. 7th Annual Mystic Revelers Mardi Gras Parade 12pm, MARDI GRAS FEST is on parade route. Free admission and parking. Presented by Bay Minette Civic Club, benefits Charity Fund. Sponsors and Vendors needed. www.bmcivicclub.com251-463-1909
Free Fitness Classes at Loxley Civic Center, Monday and Thursday nights 5:45 pm – 6:45 pm. Classes include Zumba, free weights, pilates and circuit training which incorporates boxing. For more information contact Renee Williams at (251) 947-5102.
Do you have an upcoming event you’d like to share in Coffee Break? Please email submissions, at least two weeks in advance to editor@tidbitsbc.com
Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Editors Note
Note from the Editor
“Be sure to go by the grocery and get wings for tonight!” my son said as he exited the car for school this morning. When this issue of Tidbits hits the streets we will have a new BCS National Champion. Will the state of Alabama continue its winning streak or will Louisiana have bragging rights for the next 364 days? As of now, we are still hours away from a Champion, however there is one certainty – we’ll be eating hot wings during the game at our house.
Other than a few foggy mornings, we’ve had a week of beautiful weather here in Baldwin County. The days have been mild and pleasant and it’s wonderful to see everyone return to fishing, golf, biking, motorcycling and outdoor play. My primary exercise routine involves walking our energetic schnoodle, Cash, and even he has had extra pep in his step this week.
We are gearing up for Valentine’s Day and Mardi Gras kick off here at Tidbits. We are so fortunate to have a plethora of great shopping, dining and entertainment establishments in our area and we’d like to remind everyone to shop Baldwin County first!
Wishing everyone a wonderful week,
Audrey Chambers
Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Weekly Business Spotlight
Dutchman’s Lawn and Garden
Dutchman’s Guns and Ammo
How did they get the name Dutchman’s? Well, there’s definitely a story there according to Ron de Kok, owner and operator of Dutchman’s. Ron’s mother and father immigrated to the United States from Holland. The Dutch government allowed the husband and wife $50.00 for their overseas trip and by the time the reached their destination in Ohio, the couple had $7.50 to their name. The family chose to use the name Dutchman’s to honor their heritage.
Ron de Kok moved to the area after serving in the Navy and, soon after, his mom and dad moved here as well. Ron’s dad purchased a piece of property on Highway 98 and Ron and his dad opened Dutchman’s Lawn and Garden in June of 1986. Dutchman’s Lawn and Garden sells the Husquvarna brand exclusively, and their inventory includes commercial and residential mowers, chainsaws, tillers, trimmers and parts. The parts department at Dutchman’s Lawn and Garden also features parts by other manufacturers.
After several years in the lawn and garden business, Ron, his fiancee (now his wife) and his brother began participating in gun shows with an emphasis on World War II weapons. In 1992, they built an addition on to the building and opened Dutchman’s Gun and Ammo. Their store offers handguns, tactical weapons, military weapons and collectables and is the only store in the area with such variety and diversity. From the Spanish American War to Vietnam, there is a weapon or collectable in the shop to represent every major war.
Ron offers a standing cash discount and tells his customers to bring cash to either store and they are always willing to make a deal. You can visit Dutchman’s Lawn and Garden and Dutchman’s Guns and Ammo at 22482 US Hwy. 98 in Foley and their phone number is (251) 943-7043. Their hours of orperation are Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm and Saturday 8:00 am – 1:00 pm. You can visit them online at www.dutchmansguns.com.
Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Weekly Faith Corner
Raised Up at The Last
by Jerry Ousley
Why is it that whatever it may be that we are looking for is always in the last place we look? Well, frankly because once we find it we stop looking so – well you get the picture I believe. How often have we watched a movie or program where the star is trying to defuse a bomb? The clock is ticking away and there are only seconds left. Then with one second to go he or she cuts the right wire and sitting on the edge of our seats we wipe a sweaty brow and breathe a sigh of relief. Of course we know that it’s just the drama of the show and in real life more often than not it doesn’t happen that way, but doesn’t it make it more exciting?
I’d say that many of you could relate incidents in which something happened at the last minute. It may not be as dramatic as defusing a bomb but in life it may have seemed just as vital. This has happened to me a few times. I had lost my job and was depending on unemployment as an income. Only there were some glitches that kept me from getting it. It was the end of July when I lost my job and thank the good Lord I had some on the side things going on that brought in some income. But now it was November. Christmas was fast approaching and it seemed as if there’d be no Christmas gifts, or meager one’s at best, unless we got a miracle. Then a week before the end of November it happened I checked the status of my unemployment and they had paid not only the week due but all the back pay! God had blessed. I know that some have had nightmares getting unemployment started in this economic meltdown and our prayers are certainly with them. Many can tell much more dramatic stories about things happening at the last minute!
Jesus told of some last minute things in John 6. His exact words were “And I will raise him up at the last day.” He said it four times in this chapter. In verse 39 He said, “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.” Again in verse 40 He said, “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” Yet again in verse 44, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day.” And finally in verse 54, “Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.”
Just what did He mean by that phrase? Of course we know that those given to Christ by Father God will be resurrected and lifted up when our Lord returns. Those given to Christ by God, of those He will lose none. All who recognizes Christ for who He really is and commits to Him will be at home with Him in the last day. Those drawn to Jesus by the Father will be raised up at the last day. And those who have eaten the flesh of Christ and partaken of His blood in salvation will be raised up at the last day. But there is a bit more.
You see, the term “The last day” could also be interpreted as “the last time” or “the last minute.” He is the one who patiently is defusing the bomb that is certain to take us out. He is working to bring us the hope and peace we need. Jesus Christ by way of the Holy Spirit is the One who is finding the last place we will look for those things that we need to spiritually restore us.
We search and don’t find. We worry and fret and scheme to relieve ourselves of our plight. We get to the place where we feel there is no hope and our answer may never come. We’ve been faithful to the Lord and still this has come upon us! Doesn’t He love us? Isn’t He concerned about us? Has it all been for naught?
Hang in there; hold on; be faithful. He is there and He won’t let you down. He will raise you up in the last day and at the one second mark that bomb will be defused. You just wait and see He’ll be there for you at the last minute!
