Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Weekly Faith Corner

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How To Avoid Being Offended Today

by Ngozi Nwoke

Imagine your beautiful laid out future being scattered and demolished at the feet of offences. Surely, it’s not a sight you would love to see. One simple unwisely handled offence can destroy the efforts and hard work of many years, in one day. Many people are victims of the consequences of being offended. This article shows how you can avoid or overcome temptations of offences.

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it – 1 Corinthians 10:13

Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak – Matthew 26:41

Though you can’t stop offence from coming, you can avoid being offended. When offence comes, the temptation to be offended is usually strong. Offence wants you to be irritated, angry, humiliated, to feel pain or injured. It is your choice whether to let offence have its way or not. Peradventure you get offended, your next action can be disastrous.

How to avoid being offended:

Expect Offence to come any time.

This helps you to be prepared and you won’t be caught unaware.

Make a decision never to be offended no matter what the case may be. It will subdue any negative emotion that may want to rise, like pride, anger, etc.

Seek God’s help.

The flesh will always tempt you to be offended even when you are willing not to be. So you need a higher authority to help you not to be offended.

Die to self.

A dead man cannot be tempted. ‘Dying to self’ means that you are spiritually minded, and not carnally minded. It gives you control over your emotions and enables you to wisely handle offences.

Daily evaluate your progress.

Examine how you fared against offences daily. If you got offended, find out the root cause of you being offended and deal with it.

Celebrate your victories.

When offence comes and you don’t get offended, celebrate it. This act will encourage you to press on. On the other hand, if you got offended, don’t be discouraged or angry with yourself. You will do better next time.

Thank God for your victories.

There is need for you to always return all glory to God who helped you. This will secure consistent supply of divine helps.

Surely offences will come but the consequences of being offended demand that you learn how to avoid getting offended. The steps given above when followed will turn you into a person that rarely gets offended, if at all you do.

Snapshots of First “Business Showcase” in Orange Beach

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The Alabama Gulf Coast Area Chamber of Commerce held its first-ever Business Showcase on Thursday, January 19th, 2012 at the Orange Beach Events Center located at the Wharf.  The event was sponsored by Columbia Southern University and featured a variety of informational and promotional exhibits from businesses in the Coastal Baldwin County region.

Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Coffee Break

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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

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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 – Coffee Break

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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

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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

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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

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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!

 

Tidbits – A Baldwin County Newspaper – Weekly Stopping In

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Jade Garden Chinese Restaurant

With over 48 entree items at Jade Garden, the lunch buffet selection is tough to beat.  Our family sampled a number of items including soup, egg rolls, chicken and beef dishes, sushi, boiled shrimp and grilled oysters, just to name a few.  There are a number of soups to chose from on the buffet and I found my favorite, hot and sour, chock full of egg, tofu, mushrooms (with a sprinkle of freshly chopped scallions) and great flavor.

Jade Garden also offers a number of fresh seafood selections such as boiled shrimp, grilled oysters, stuffed crab and baked fish.  They have a great salad bar, several sushi selections and a dessert bar with soft serve ice cream.  Their traditional Chinese favorites include but aren’t limited to; sesame chicken, general’s chicken, Mongolian pork, vegetable lo mein, sweet and sour chicken, wontons and terriyaki chicken on a stick.

We experienced great, friendly service from our waitress and a very pleasing moment occurred when the check arrived.  The adult buffet price is $6.50 per person, kids eat for $3.95 and beverages cost $1.35 each.  You can visit Jade Garden Chinese restaurant at 2630 S McKenzie St. in Foley or place a take out order at (251) 943-2988.  Their hours of operation are Monday – Friday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am – 10:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am – 9:00 pm.