[Bayside]

It's sad looking at the picture of Barton's state of decay. You can blame it directly on the school board. I remember when Holmes and Holmes directed the restoration project of Barton some years back. I can't remember exactly when it was, perhaps the late 70s or early 80s. After that restoration, the building looked great. The school board just let it go to pot. They just didn't maintain it. They haven't even painted it.

Personally, I think the school board should deed it to the city. I'm not sure what they might use it for, but the city will be better suited with dealing with it.

[ChristopherNFTL]

It's sad looking at the picture of Barton's state of decay. You can blame it directly on the school board. I remember when Holmes and Holmes directed the restoration project of Barton some years back. I can't remember exactly when it was, perhaps the late 70s or early 80s. After that restoration, the building looked great. The school board just let it go to pot. They just didn't maintain it. They haven't even painted it.

Personally, I think the school board should deed it to the city. I'm not sure what they might use it for, but the city will be better suited with dealing with it.

That was the whole point I was making, kind of. The population of Mobile is so quick to judge about what goes on in the Central Office. They didn't even want to give the appearance of spending on "unnecessary" or "cosmetic" things so as not to give people ammunition. It is insane what people say about the school system and the supposed "corruption" and "mismanagement" there. If they had put a coat of paint up.... sheesh I can here it now:

"Why should the schools get more money? All they use it for is to build their school board palace down there on Government Street while these poor kids don't even have lights. Now I support the kids, I just don't support Barton. There is no way I am giving them any tax money!"

Now just repeat that 250,000 times a year and that is why Mobile has only voted ONCE in almost 50 years to raise the property taxes for the schools. That raise was less than a few pennies on the dollar of your houses worth, and it only passed because they almost had to axe football!

As far as Mr. Holmes' renovation, I am very old friends with their family and I know they did what they could with the time and money they were given, but I would hardly call it a total renovation. More of a band-aid. The building is so old that is going to require more frequent and invasive care.


(I swear, I'm not bitter!) :jester:

[BlessedMobile]

So now we know that not maintaining the facilities was done on purpose? Look, we can assume that the public SEES the lousy condition of the buildings but doesn't give a wit about the product produced by the system since we didn't vote a tax increase until the board said we would get new and renovated schools. We gave the increase and what do we have? Some nice buildings that get inadequate maintenance. Everyone knows we should have had metal roofs but the school board wouldn't let them do it because they had no one to maintain them..I know this from Volkert. Our local system is the weak link in Mobile's otherwise strong chain. And Chris, teachers are wonderful people who want and deserve more money...there...I said it.

[Del]

Well, now they're in their new "palace" out at Quality Mobile Schools, so that objection has been eliminated.

[nimsjus]

A huge victory for the Village of Spring Hill folks. It would ahev been a pretty devestating blow to their efforts if the first major project in the area did not abide by the new code. Hopefully this will spur similar investments after people see how much better this style of development is. I really hope they do the on street parking through this area too. I know Old Shell can be a bit of a traffic headache and on street parking might amplify that, but it will add so much character to that area.
The Mitchell Company paid $4.5 million for 1.5 acres at the southwest corner of Old Shell Road and McGregor Avenue, and plans to build a 13,000-square-foot CVS Phar macy, according to court records and Mitchell. Work begins this week on the first new project to use design guidelines established by the Village of Spring Hill. Attorney Doug Anderson of Burr For man assisted Mitchell and CVS in the transaction. Charlie Gray of Surety Land Title handled the closing.
Also a little blurb about the Amsouth Building being sold
The Retirement Systems of Alabama has paid $6.75 million for the 34-story AmSouth building at 107 St. Francis St., according to Irving Silver, a local attorney for the sellers. Bay Title's Ceil Coble was the closing agent. Joe Toole, RSA's leasing agent in Montgomery, will lease the AmSouth space. He is also leasing agent for the 35-story RSA Battle House Tower on Water and Dauphin streets.

[Electrical Porpoise]

Really disappointed they are putting in that CVS in Spring Hill - especially when there is a drug store across the street.

[nimsjus]

Really disappointed they are putting in that CVS in Spring Hill - especially when there is a drug store across the street.

Im not big on chain drug stores myself, but the current CVS at Old Shell and McGregor is an eyesore. Obviously there are alot of other ideas that could be put on that same corner that would excite me more than a new CVS, but at least what is going there will start the shift towards the new guidelines. I hope they build a nice store that conforms to the rules set forth by Dover Kohl and the Village of Spring Hill. I also hope that CVS pulling out of that eyesore will be the nail in the coffin for that strip mall and will lead to that property being redeveloped. Those properties along Old Shell, the Bruno's shopping center, and the parking lot that surrounds it are probably the most important pieces in the revitalization of Spring Hill. If that happened there would be alot fo momentum for the smart growth plan laid out by the Village of Spring Hill.

[Port_of_Bama]

Hey guys please don`t forget about boom boom pics !! :jester:

[Electrical Porpoise]

Im not big on chain drug stores myself, but the current CVS at Old Shell and McGregor is an eyesore. Obviously there are alot of other ideas that could be put on that same corner that would excite me more than a new CVS, but at least what is going there will start the shift towards the new guidelines. I hope they build a nice store that conforms to the rules set forth by Dover Kohl and the Village of Spring Hill. I also hope that CVS pulling out of that eyesore will be the nail in the coffin for that strip mall and will lead to that property being redeveloped. Those properties along Old Shell, the Bruno's shopping center, and the parking lThat would be awesome and my comments about being disappointed were said assuming those don't change. It would be cool if Greers would put in one of their new markets and the current CVS/Cleveland strip was knocked down.

I like the Exxon but it is sort of an eyesore...as are the power lines, too.

[10101000]

For those of you who cannot make the parade, ALDOT has a camera fixed on the parade. Of course no sound, it is Camera C-46. Enjoy.

http://www.dot.state.al.us/internetdocs/apps/bureaus/design/its/publicits/CameraList.aspx

[10101000]

Also, WKRG is live.
http://www.wkrg.com/

[spookyapp]

God bless WKRG. I wish I was there!! Mel Showers rocks!

Happy Mardi Gras!

[nimsjus]

My wife and I took some mardi gras/downtown pictures the last couple of weeks with our new camera. I will try to post them later this week or at least get them all on photobucket where i could link to them. Ill let yall know when I get it done.

[10101000]

Thanks man

[elb401]

Dr. Bronner is in town. he is doing a walk through of the Amsouth building with his investment team. they closed on the sale last week.

[BlessedMobile]

I hope Bronner is prepared to start soon. That building has at least a years worth of work on it. We could see a rendering in a month or so. Bronner knows how to work up the crowd.
I am wondering if anyone can tell me what a large tract of land is going to become; it is located at the end of Broad St. on the water facing the coal terminal. Please don't tell me it is some kind of park as it has been clear cut.
They have been working on the land for a few months. I thought it belonged to the state docks.

[Port_of_Bama]

My wife and I took some mardi gras/downtown pictures the last couple of weeks with our new camera. I will try to post them later this week or at least get them all on photobucket where i could link to them. Ill let yall know when I get it done.



Thanks dude, I wonder how many people were down there this year ?

[Alxx611]

They said there were about 130,000 people estimated to have been at Fat Tuesday and about 92,000 on Joe Caine day.

I have a few pics too worth sharing soon...

[Bayside]

I hope Bronner is prepared to start soon. That building has at least a years worth of work on it. We could see a rendering in a month or so. Bronner knows how to work up the crowd.
I am wondering if anyone can tell me what a large tract of land is going to become; it is located at the end of Broad St. on the water facing the coal terminal. Please don't tell me it is some kind of park as it has been clear cut.
They have been working on the land for a few months. I thought it belonged to the state docks.

I'm not sure where you are referring to. I've been down Broad, then along the bay to the golf course. I see where they are doing some wetland restoration along the bay. Is this what you are referring to?

Or, it could be the work they are doing behind Ft. Whiting across from the Coast Guard base? There is also the giant slab where the warehouses next to the Coast Guard base were demolished.

[MobileLSUboy2005]

what are the HUGE warehouses they are building on the other side of the river on the right side of the road right when you come out of the tunnel? I drove by on the 13th on my way to Ed's and was like woa! where'd that come from?!

[Bayside]

what are the HUGE warehouses they are building on the other side of the river on the right side of the road right when you come out of the tunnel? I drove by on the 13th on my way to Ed's and was like woa! where'd that come from?!

That is the new Austal expansion. They will do prefab work there and assemble in the buildings on river.

[MobileLSUboy2005]

That is the new Austal expansion. They will do prefab work there and assemble in the buildings on river.

that was my first guess, that it was part of Austal

[BlessedMobile]

I'm not sure where you are referring to. I've been down Broad, then along the bay to the golf course. I see where they are doing some wetland restoration along the bay. Is this what you are referring to?

Or, it could be the work they are doing behind Ft. Whiting across from the Coast Guard base? There is also the giant slab where the warehouses next to the Coast Guard base were demolished.

this land is actually where Broad St. once ended which is on the water. You can see the project clearly from the interstate. I thought this might be the park that they were going to build but it sure does look more like a commercial site than a park...no trees, fill dirt, etc. It's not close to Brookley. You would have to walk onto the open land after the current Broad Street ends to get to this property.

[Electrical Porpoise]

this land is actually where Broad St. once ended which is on the water. You can see the project clearly from the interstate. I thought this might be the park that they were going to build but it sure does look more like a commercial site than a park...no trees, fill dirt, etc. It's not close to Brookley. You would have to walk onto the open land after the current Broad Street ends to get to this property.I think you are talking about the new entrance to the Container Terminal, which is at the end of Broad. The land is still being developed near the interstate in preparation for the exit being put in.

[Bayside]

I think you are talking about the new entrance to the Container Terminal, which is at the end of Broad. The land is still being developed near the interstate in preparation for the exit being put in.

That very well could be. I was at a Mardi Gras float barn party recently and saw one end of it at Virginia and Conception. I came upon it and was quite surprised to see it.

[phoenixboi08]

I hope Bronner is prepared to start soon. That building has at least a years worth of work on it. We could see a rendering in a month or so. Bronner knows how to work up the crowd.
I am wondering if anyone can tell me what a large tract of land is going to become; it is located at the end of Broad St. on the water facing the coal terminal. Please don't tell me it is some kind of park as it has been clear cut.
They have been working on the land for a few months. I thought it belonged to the state docks.

They are expanding the docks....I think it's another terminal or something....

[nimsjus]

It went unmentioned today, but there was an article on Barton Academy in todays PR
http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1235643395214030.xml&coll=3
Basically the school board doesnt have the money to do anything and under a current state law they are not allowed to lease it or sell it. They want to give it to the city, but seems like the people interviewed are skeptical that the city could do anything with it either. Why is there not more of an effort to save this building. It is one of the oldest existing structures in Mobile (1830's-pre civil war) and it is litterally falling down. I think this should be a priority for the community to save this structure. I want things like the Maritime Museum, civic center redo, county commission land redevelopment/mardi gras park, but I would put all of those on hold or risk loosing them in order to save Barton. It is that important to this community and our historic preservation efforts. It would be a travesty to lose Barton. We lost enough in the 60's before we realized how important preservation was. It would be even more embarassing to lose a building like Barton in our current day and time when we realize the importance and significance of preserving historic structures.

[BlessedMobile]

They are expanding the docks....I think it's another terminal or something....

Phoenix...I think I will go with your "something". I hope the "something" is part of the State Docks developement. Wasn't there some land purchased for a very large cold storage facility in that area? I don't know....but it's "something"

[SouthSky]

I'm not sure of the location y'all are speaking, but the container terminal is beginning its Phase 2 of construction around there.

Is it this on the left?

http://asdd.com/images_new/MCT_bluewhale1.jpg

[BlessedMobile]

I found out what the site near Broad Street and I-10 is going to be. It is the 80 acre Intermodal Container Transfer Facility. In essence, it is the rail yard for the container terminal. This thing will cover land all the way from the Coast Guard base at Brookley to the South end of the Armstrong plant. There are even large parcels near the interstate that will be for other developments. So much for a park!
SouthSky...please, please post more aerials of the container and downtown areas. Great shot you have there. I had wanted to see the terminal from the air.

[Bayside]

Here is a rendering. It's called the Garrow's Bend Intermodal Container Transfer Facility.

http://www.mobilempo.org/Freight%20Transportation%20Planning/intermodal.jpg

[SouthSky]

SouthSky...please, please post more aerials of the container and downtown areas. Great shot you have there. I had wanted to see the terminal from the air.

Unfortunately that's the only high resolution aerial I can find. However, I know the designer of the gantry cranes and the dock so I bet I can finagle some soon. :tup:

[SouthSky]

Here is a rendering. It's called the Garrow's Bend Intermodal Container Transfer Facility.

Here's a short article about this^

http://www.trafficworld.com/newssection/ocean.asp?id=49988

[BlessedMobile]

[QUOTE=Bayside;4113252] It's called the Garrow's Bend Intermodal Container Transfer Facility.


Bayside..I'm glad you found the rendering. From the drawing we can see that the McPhillips Mfg. land adjoins the docks land. I am hoping that ASD will arrange to buy this 11 acres. I had talked to one of the McPhillips before the bad news of the closing was announced; he told me it was 11 acres.

[phoenixboi08]

This morning, I heard my roomate get up and go to the window. He started laughing, and I turned and asked him what was going on. He just pointed out the window....it was snowing:cool:

Here are some pics I took around campus (Birmingham-Southern College)

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture001.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture002.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture003.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture004.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture005.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture010.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture011.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture012.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture013.jpg

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg267/gmedespair/Snow/Picture014.jpg

I don't think my camera's great for the snow...but they're decent shots...I can't wait to go downtown...or maybe I shouldn't drive?

[SouthSky]

^Be careful driving... but it is tempting isn't it? ;)

Great shots, by the way.

[Alxx611]

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1460.jpg


http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1463.jpg

My favorite angle



http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1472.jpg



http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1477.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1387.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1418.jpg


"when all else fails, throw a party"

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1461.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1459.jpg


In Fairhope:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/downtown/100_1413.jpg

[spookyapp]

OK great shots, but if they are at BSC in BIRMINGHAM, they should not be included in the MOBILE thread. Thanks.

[phoenixboi08]

OK great shots, but if they are at BSC in BIRMINGHAM, they should not be included in the MOBILE thread. Thanks.

I realize that. I just thought I should share...but if not, I understand

[yeahwhatever]

I realize that. I just thought I should share...but if not, I understand
i dont think it belongs here at all... especially after you had already posted it in the birmingham thread and pasted it here word for word. but who am i to judge

[BlessedMobile]

Phoenix....I'm glad you posted it here.:tup: Just because it happened in B'ham doesn't mean we don't like to view and discuss it in the Mobile thread. At this point...all but two of the viewers seemed to enjoy your post. I would say the odds are running in your favor. It's not like snow in Alabama in an everyday occurrence.

[BlessedMobile]

After seeing the container terminal photo from SouthSky and enjoying the 50 foot up fire escape photos of downtown Mobile by Musicright...I think we need to find/recruit an aerial photographer for the Mobile forum. Maybe one of you guys is already doing this; if so, please post more Mobile area photos. I have the print capability to make large scale wall murals of great photos. I really would like to do some cool murals for you posters and myself. I enjoy Musicrights downtown shot every time I open my office door. A ultralight flyer would be especially welcomed!

[Port_of_Bama]

I realize that. I just thought I should share...but if not, I understand



I liked the pics and I understand where you are coming from P-boi . Living in Mobile and in your case Arizona as well it`s extremely rare that we will see snow. When I was living in Huntsville I wanted to post Pics of the snow on the Mobile forum so bad becasue I wasn1t use to it and i didn`t because I didn`t know how.


I enjoyed the pics !!!

[yeahwhatever]

Phoenix....I'm glad you posted it here.:tup: Just because it happened in B'ham doesn't mean we don't like to view and discuss it in the Mobile thread. At this point...all but two of the viewers seemed to enjoy your post. I would say the odds are running in your favor. It's not like snow in Alabama in an everyday occurrence.

well, lets go ahead and change the name of this thread from the Mobile Development Thread to the "People who live or used to live in mobile discussion thread also including snow pictures taken from dorm rooms in colleges not in mobile"


i dont mind someone wanting to share photos, but birmingham pictures do not belong in the mobile development thread. i enjoyed them when i first saw them over in the birmingham thread where they originally posted.

[Electrical Porpoise]

well, lets go ahead and change the name of this thread from the Mobile Development Thread to the "People who live or used to live in mobile discussion thread also including snow pictures taken from dorm rooms in colleges not in mobile"


i dont mind someone wanting to share photos, but birmingham pictures do not belong in the mobile development thread. i enjoyed them when i first saw them over in the birmingham thread where they originally posted.
one hell of a soapbox you got there. it will be ok. i promise.

[SouthSky]

Thanks guys for the photos. Good shots there Alxx... are those shots from the Battle House?

By the way, Blessed, there is a website that has Mobile aerials for sale here:
http://myshotz.com/

[MobileLSUboy2005]

Really? Someone posts pics of a rare alabama snow, and yall are gonna freak out about it?? its a forum, not a classroom...lighten up!

im glad you posted the pics!

[Alabadrock]

well, lets go ahead and change the name of this thread from the Mobile Development Thread to the "People who live or used to live in mobile discussion thread also including snow pictures taken from dorm rooms in colleges not in mobile"


i dont mind someone wanting to share photos, but birmingham pictures do not belong in the mobile development thread. i enjoyed them when i first saw them over in the birmingham thread where they originally posted.

It's honestly not that big of a deal. There was some redundancy in posting the pictures in both forums, but, my lord... Life will go on.

[Port_of_Bama]

LOL yes it will and it starts now !! I love the newly planted Palms on royal street it adds charecter to that street. I believe that when real reatil picks up in Mobile it will be on Roayal.

[Alxx611]

http://blog.al.com/jdcrowe/2009/03/2-27-09BartonSpire.jpg

[Electrical Porpoise]

^^


:haha: :haha:

[MobileLSUboy2005]

hahahahaha oh geez...thats pretty funny....well good news is, if you go bankrupt and cant afford your house, Bronner will stop by and stick a spire on it for ya!

[phoenixboi08]

I hope we never see another "spire..." at least not for another ten or so towers. LOL, it's getting a little redundant.

And I promise not to post anything "UN-Mobile" again. It was just a little exciting. I mean, imagine if you just woke up and saw 2-4 inches of snow on the ground! It was kind of hard to resist. The reason I posted it on both the B'ham and Mobile threads was because I didn't assume that everyone read both. Again, sorry.

[nimsjus]

I finally got all of my pictures loaded up to photobucket. I can post some here if you guys have some favorites. There are a tonf of pictures. I hope you guys enjoy.

Mardi Gras
http://s177.photobucket.com/albums/w222/nimsjus/Mardi%20Gras%202009/

Downtown Pictures
http://s177.photobucket.com/albums/w222/nimsjus/Mobile%202009/

Spring Hill College Campus
http://s177.photobucket.com/albums/w222/nimsjus/Spring%20Hill%20College/

My Older Mobile Pictures
http://s177.photobucket.com/albums/w222/nimsjus/

[nimsjus]

Sam Jones has cancer (multiple myeloma). Prognosis seems good and his staff say he will seek reelection.
http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1236334580317100.xml&coll=3

P.S. All my pictures from Mardi Gras, Downtown, and Spring Hill College are linked at the bottom of the last page.

[phoenixboi08]

I finally got all of my pictures loaded up to photobucket. I can post some here if you guys have some favorites. There are a tonf of pictures. I hope you guys enjoy.

Downtown Pictures
http://s177.photobucket.com/albums/w222/nimsjus/Mobile%202009/


WAIT! What are they building on the old courthouse lot? :banana:

http://s177.photobucket.com/albums/w222/nimsjus/Mobile 2009/?albumview=grid&fullsize=DSC_0766.jpg

[| BRAVO |]

Very nice pics nimsjus. I really enjoyed the tour of Mobile. Thanks! :D

[nimsjus]

WAIT! What are they building on the old courthouse lot? :banana:

http://s177.photobucket.com/albums/w222/nimsjus/Mobile 2009/?albumview=grid&fullsize=DSC_0766.jpg

That is the courthouse annex that wraps around the Mobile Bar Associations Headquarters. The Courthouse property that will become the Mardi Gras Park is just east of this new building and is currently being used as the staging ground for the annex construction.

[phoenixboi08]

:previous: Oh. I guess that was kinda obvious... it's really exciting to FINALLY see something being done. What about the new Fed. Courthouse? Any news on that?

[BlessedMobile]

:previous: Oh. I guess that was kinda obvious... it's really exciting to FINALLY see something being done. What about the new Fed. Courthouse? Any news on that?

I think many thought that the money would come from the stimulus package but that seems to be far less for infrastructure than first thought. I did read that this is one of the highest priority needs by the GSA...maybe that will help.

[SouthSky]

County Music Venues Coming to Alabama
Several country music singers are making a big announcement in Birmingham today. Tracy Lawrence, Marty Stuart, and Darryl Worley are holding a news conference to discuss an entertainment circuit in Alabama. They want to have venues in Dothan, Montgomery, Mobile, Birmingham and Huntsville; creating a series of major entertainment complexes. The group claims these entertainment destinations will create thousands of jobs and millions of tax dollars and charitable contributions.

http://www.myfoxal.com/dpp/news/20090310Afternoon_News_Update

Another link:

http://thebama.com/?p=169

[bayou15]

http://urban.cityofmobile.org/urban_pc/items_results.php?a=fs&meeting_id=213&current_key=4119



:tup:

[Muskavon]

County Music Venues Coming to Alabama
[I]Several country music singers are making a big announcement in Birmingham today. Tracy Lawrence, Marty Stuart, and Darryl Worley are holding a news conference to discuss an entertainment circuit in Alabama. They want to have venues in Dothan, Montgomery, Mobile, Birmingham and Huntsville; creating a series of major entertainment complexes.

Let me make it clear that I'm not disparaging this idea in any way. I'm not a snob who somehow thinks country music is beneath us all nor do I dispute that it can be a good thing economically and/or provide entertainment to an appreciative audience.

But I do want to make a comment that I think these singers are pretty "crafty". And I mean all these guys from the Vegas circuit to Branson to this idea. This "nostalgic" type of set up guarantees and extends their career long after it would have been over. Good for them. If it sells, I can't judge. It may not work as single acts going to dive bars at random. But as packs of has-beens singing in groups at venues, it probably works very well. I actually sort of salute this type of entrepreneurship. It's a pretty good concept IMO. Protecting their future.

That said, I've never been sold that "entertainment" of any sort grows the economy very efficiently without tourism specifically wanting to come see it. You give me $7 and I'll show you a bike trick. That doesn't grow our economy much. You give me $7 and I'll show you a bike trick while sending $5 of it to Nashville or Universal Studios seems like it might actually shrink the local economy. Now if tourists want to come...that's another equation. Maybe they have the group of Lorrie Morgans to pull that off.

[Electrical Porpoise]

Let me make it clear that I'm not disparaging this idea in any way. I'm not a snob who somehow thinks country music is beneath us all nor do I dispute that it can be a good thing economically and/or provide entertainment to an appreciative audience.

But I do want to make a comment that I think these singers are pretty "crafty". And I mean all these guys from the Vegas circuit to Branson to this idea. This "nostalgic" type of set up guarantees and extends their career long after it would have been over. Good for them. If it sells, I can't judge. It may not work as single acts going to dive bars at random. But as packs of has-beens singing in groups at venues, it probably works very well. I actually sort of salute this type of entrepreneurship. It's a pretty good concept IMO. Protecting their future.

That said, I've never been sold that "entertainment" of any sort grows the economy very efficiently without tourism specifically wanting to come see it. You give me $7 and I'll show you a bike trick. That doesn't grow our economy much. You give me $7 and I'll show you a bike trick while sending $5 of it to Nashville or Universal Studios seems like it might actually shrink the local economy. Now if tourists want to come...that's another equation. Maybe they have the group of Lorrie Morgans to pull that off.lol, dude. it is just a small investment for them. lets not dive into it like we are on the worlds greatest acid trip. ;)

[Muskavon]

How is it that someone or something named "electrical porpoise" could bring me down from an LSD trip? It is just effing wrong. :haha:

Yeah, sorry, that was too indepth. But what the hell. Not much else to talk about lately. :) Anything to move away from parks.

[Electrical Porpoise]

How is it that someone or something named "electrical porpoise" could bring me down from an LSD trip? It is just effing wrong. :haha:
:haha:
Yeah, sorry, that was too indepth. But what the hell. Not much else to talk about lately. :) Anything to move away from parks.
This is true. New news is good news to me. Been kind of dead lately.

[nimsjus]

County Music Venues Coming to Alabama
Several country music singers are making a big announcement in Birmingham today. Tracy Lawrence, Marty Stuart, and Darryl Worley are holding a news conference to discuss an entertainment circuit in Alabama. They want to have venues in Dothan, Montgomery, Mobile, Birmingham and Huntsville; creating a series of major entertainment complexes. The group claims these entertainment destinations will create thousands of jobs and millions of tax dollars and charitable contributions.

http://www.myfoxal.com/dpp/news/20090310Afternoon_News_Update

Another link:

http://thebama.com/?p=169

They never mention what venue they will use in Mobile. If I were a betting man, I bet they plan on using the new racetrack as their venue for Mobile or The Wharf. I doubt we get a new project to discuss out of this deal. I kind of hope it is the race track. They have always mentioned Branson style entertainment venues when discussing the entertainment portion of that project. Maybe their interest would help nudge that project of the drawing board and into reality.

[nimsjus]

http://urban.cityofmobile.org/urban_pc/items_results.php?a=fs&meeting_id=213&current_key=4119



:tup:

That looks good to me. What is on that corner now? Is that the lot where there used to be a crappy bank building and then they cleared it.

[Electrical Porpoise]

That looks good to me. What is on that corner now? Is that the lot where there used to be a crappy bank building and then they cleared it.

Yeah, it is just a parking lot now.

[SouthSky]

Turning basin funding soon?

http://blog.al.com/live/2009/03/gulf_coast_exploreum_universit.html

[Electrical Porpoise]

Turning basin funding soon?

http://blog.al.com/live/2009/03/gulf_coast_exploreum_universit.html

That would be sweet. It would be even sweeter if we had an economy that would put ships in there.

Jesus walked on water and his first present to us was money for something that sits on water. Coincidence? I think not. :cool:

[BlessedMobile]

Let me make it clear that I'm not disparaging this idea in any way. I'm not a snob who somehow thinks country music is beneath us all nor do I dispute that it can be a good thing economically and/or provide entertainment to an appreciative audience.

But I do want to make a comment that I think these singers are pretty "crafty". And I mean all these guys from the Vegas circuit to Branson to this idea. This "nostalgic" type of set up guarantees and extends their career long after it would have been over. Good for them. If it sells, I can't judge. It may not work as single acts going to dive bars at random. But as packs of has-beens singing in groups at venues, it probably works very well. I actually sort of salute this type of entrepreneurship. It's a pretty good concept IMO. Protecting their future.

That said, I've never been sold that "entertainment" of any sort grows the economy very efficiently without tourism specifically wanting to come see it. You give me $7 and I'll show you a bike trick. That doesn't grow our economy much. You give me $7 and I'll show you a bike trick while sending $5 of it to Nashville or Universal Studios seems like it might actually shrink the local economy. Now if tourists want to come...that's another equation. Maybe they have the group of Lorrie Morgans to pull that off.

ditto Musk...you can survive longer in a pack than as a solo. Sounds like a bigger version of the FAIR is coming to town.

[BlessedMobile]

That looks good to me. What is on that corner now? Is that the lot where there used to be a crappy bank building and then they cleared it.

That land is going to eventually be a hotel. Most likely a Hyatt Place. The same developer did the Hampton downtown. I know the parking guru of downtown who knows all and sometimes shares tidbits of wisdom with me...like the above.

[BlessedMobile]

That would be sweet. It would be even sweeter if we had an economy that would put ships in there.

Jesus walked on water and his first present to us was money for something that sits on water. Coincidence? I think not. :cool:

EP...Jesus , as part of the Godhead, likewise created the barrier islands which we taxpayers are determined to endlessly rebuild by spending more money to pill up sand which WILL WASH AWAY. Now there is $400,000 wasted. Pass the hat among homeowners and buy a dump truck load with the proceeds.

[Port_of_Bama]

When will ground be broken on the Maritime Museum ? It would be smart if they would add a maritime theme park as well ! The park would be right next to the Fantasy and I say Fantasy cause the Holiday is over now. I can predict strong support for a maritime type of theme park Down town and local support would be strong. I love to see the carnival rides downtown and food venders during Mardi Gra it sets a fun atmosphere downtown. So why just make that a Mardi Gra thing atleast have the rides and venders DT on Fridays-Sunday. It`s time for change !

[| BRAVO |]

County Music Venues Coming to Alabama
Several country music singers are making a big announcement in Birmingham today. Tracy Lawrence, Marty Stuart, and Darryl Worley are holding a news conference to discuss an entertainment circuit in Alabama. They want to have venues in Dothan, Montgomery, Mobile, Birmingham and Huntsville; creating a series of major entertainment complexes. The group claims these entertainment destinations will create thousands of jobs and millions of tax dollars and charitable contributions.

What's the story with this?
Someone could fly into Huntsville and catch a show one night... drive to Birmingham and catch a show... then play some golf on the RTJ Trail... then onto Montgomery... then Dothan... then Mobile and the beach... is that the plan?

[bayou15]

EP...Jesus , as part of the Godhead, likewise created the barrier islands which we taxpayers are determined to endlessly rebuild by spending more money to pill up sand which WILL WASH AWAY. Now there is $400,000 wasted. Pass the hat among homeowners and buy a dump truck load with the proceeds.
Im outside now waiting on that dump truck. Been waiting 6 years on the truck:haha: If my house washes away , can i stay with u ?:haha:

[BlessedMobile]

Im outside now waiting on that dump truck. Been waiting 6 years on the truck:haha: If my house washes away , can i stay with u ?:haha:

Yea, I guess. We'll drive over to your place on the weekends and fish out of the backyard. What the heck....I'll donate some sand bags for the greater cause.

[SouthSky]

What's the story with this?
Someone could fly into Huntsville and catch a show one night... drive to Birmingham and catch a show... then play some golf on the RTJ Trail... then onto Montgomery... then Dothan... then Mobile and the beach... is that the plan?

I have heard little information regarding this besides these press clips. I've not found a website either.

[Port_of_Bama]

Bayou !! havn`t heard from you in while man where you been ?

[bayou15]

I browse on here time to time.:tup: Trying to still find out how tall in feet the riverview plaza is with the crown :haha:

Saw the thread about how P-cola is bigger than Mobile. I didnt want to voice my opinon on that . Couldnt stop from laughing :haha:


Y'all keep up the good work!!! I'll try to research any new development geauxing up in town . Damn economy has alot of projects on hold.

[CottonCity251]

I browse on here time to time.:tup: Trying to still find out how tall in feet the riverview plaza is with the crown :haha:

Saw the thread about how P-cola is bigger than Mobile. I didnt want to voice my opinon on that . Couldnt stop from laughing :haha:

LOL.I've been doing the same thing. That Pensacola bigger than Mobile thread was funny so I chose to keep quiet.

Y'all keep up the good work!!! I'll try to research any new development geauxing up in town . Damn economy has alot of projects on hold.

The economy has caused many projects to hit da breaks...if you know what I'm saying. While that is happening city revenues are at record level...

CITY REVENUE (http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1237194985298290.xml&coll=3)
Monday, March 16, 2009
By DAN MURTAUGH
Staff Reporter with the Press-Register

On the backs of two recent annexations, the city of Mobile is reaping record revenue in the midst of a national recession.
The additional money, along with efforts to keep expenses below budget in every city department, is allowing Mobile to build parks and strengthen the police department at a time when many municipal governments are cutting back, Mayor Sam Jones said.

[phoenixboi08]

CITY REVENUE (http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1237194985298290.xml&coll=3)
Monday, March 16, 2009
By DAN MURTAUGH
Staff Reporter with the Press-Register

On the backs of two recent annexations, the city of Mobile is reaping record revenue in the midst of a national recession.
The additional money, along with efforts to keep expenses below budget in every city department, is allowing Mobile to build parks and strengthen the police department at a time when many municipal governments are cutting back, Mayor Sam Jones said.[/QUOTE]

i certainly hope this continues...the growth I mean, not the recession.

[Port_of_Bama]

CITY REVENUE (http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1237194985298290.xml&coll=3)
Monday, March 16, 2009
By DAN MURTAUGH
Staff Reporter with the Press-Register

On the backs of two recent annexations, the city of Mobile is reaping record revenue in the midst of a national recession.
The additional money, along with efforts to keep expenses below budget in every city department, is allowing Mobile to build parks and strengthen the police department at a time when many municipal governments are cutting back, Mayor Sam Jones said.

i certainly hope this continues...the growth I mean, not the recession.[/QUOTE]



That`s good to hear and the city should reap in revenue if Mobile residents are paying taxes for police protection for areas that are not in Mobile. I live in Semmes !


Im glad to see my man Cotton City and Bayou posting I was wondering what happend to you fellas . That Sean guy from New Orelans have a gripe with Mobile for some reason he started that Mobile Vs. P-cola thread.

[Muskavon]

LOL.I've been doing the same thing. That Pensacola bigger than Mobile thread was funny so I chose to keep quiet.

Especially telling is this Dept. of Commerce GDP report from 9/25/2008-

GDP Metros (in millions)

Mobile 13,892 (#125 overall)
Pcola 13,040 (#136 overall)

once again leaves out Baldwin and all the newer gains for Mobile. Clearly a staggering difference.

[Port_of_Bama]

Especially telling is this Dept. of Commerce GDP report from 9/25/2008-

GDP Metros (in millions)

Mobile 13,892 (#125 overall)
Pcola 13,040 (#136 overall)

once again leaves out Baldwin and all the newer gains for Mobile. Clearly a staggering difference.

P-cola is family to us in Mobile personaly I don`t think we should have givin that thread any attention and Cotton City and Bayou both did that.

[10101000]

P-cola is family to us in Mobile personaly I don`t think we should have givin that thread any attention and Cotton City and Bayou both did that.

Yeah, that guy likes to start stuff anway.

[Port_of_Bama]

Yeah, that guy likes to start stuff anway.

Tim!!!!! all the the fellas back, any way yeah he does.

[10101000]

Yes, a little busy these days. Was home over the weekend and the lighting on the buildings looked nice. Pink and white for some reason..... Mini-me, was lit up in green.

[Muskavon]

Yeah, that guy likes to start stuff anway.

I don't do anything with a simple goal of "starting stuff" negatively. I do say what I believe related to these subjects (tanker stuff, etc) and that may lead to more discussion, hopefully. I'd hope everyone would do that. Otherwise, not much point. The only "beef" I've ever had with "that" thread and the laughing coments here was just that I think the difference between the two places is getting a little distorted. It's not like Rolls-Royce vs. Moped. And this isn't exactly Chicago. But whatever works is ok I guess.

Anyway, I hope there is no fire where there's smoke on this Senior Bowl possibly looking elsewhere stuff. That'd really suck. Can't lose that. The PR for the area for that event alone is too huge to lose.

[NitekKetin]

Yes, a little busy these days. Was home over the weekend and the lighting on the buildings looked nice. Pink and white for some reason..... Mini-me, was lit up in green.

There was a sorority convention at the Riverview, so the two towers were lit up in the colors of the sorority's colors: pink and green. :)

[Port_of_Bama]

Yes, a little busy these days. Was home over the weekend and the lighting on the buildings looked nice. Pink and white for some reason..... Mini-me, was lit up in green.

It was lit pink and green because Mobile hosted the south east conference for the Alpha kappa Alpha sorority which is an African American sorority.

[BlessedMobile]

I don't do anything with a simple goal of "starting stuff" negatively. I do say what I believe related to these subjects (tanker stuff, etc) and that may lead to more discussion, hopefully. I'd hope everyone would do that. Otherwise, not much point. The only "beef" I've ever had with "that" thread and the laughing coments here was just that I think the difference between the two places is getting a little distorted. It's not like Rolls-Royce vs. Moped. And this isn't exactly Chicago. But whatever works is ok I guess.

Anyway, I hope there is no fire where there's smoke on this Senior Bowl possibly looking elsewhere stuff. That'd really suck. Can't lose that. The PR for the area for that event alone is too huge to lose.

I think it is a good way to get some money from the city and well it should. If we can blow our money on the Classic thing we can surely help something that is actually a good investment. The only thing we really need to upgrade are the facilities for NFL coaches and the media; heck, people don't exactly pack the stands for the game. I think it is a matter of who does the Senior Bowl belong to; if it is run by a group of Mobilians then they would be run out of town if they decided to send it elsewhere. It would take more than just money because those who sent it away would be on everyone's nasty list.

[SouthSky]

I don't do anything with a simple goal of "starting stuff" negatively. I do say what I believe related to these subjects (tanker stuff, etc) and that may lead to more discussion, hopefully. I'd hope everyone would do that. Otherwise, not much point. The only "beef" I've ever had with "that" thread and the laughing coments here was just that I think the difference between the two places is getting a little distorted. It's not like Rolls-Royce vs. Moped. And this isn't exactly Chicago. But whatever works is ok I guess.

Anyway, I hope there is no fire where there's smoke on this Senior Bowl possibly looking elsewhere stuff. That'd really suck. Can't lose that. The PR for the area for that event alone is too huge to lose.

I think he was talking about that NO forumer... but I agree about the Senior Bowl. However I don't think it'll move unless something big happens.

[Port_of_Bama]

I don't do anything with a simple goal of "starting stuff" negatively. I do say what I believe related to these subjects (tanker stuff, etc) and that may lead to more discussion, hopefully. I'd hope everyone would do that. Otherwise, not much point. The only "beef" I've ever had with "that" thread and the laughing coments here was just that I think the difference between the two places is getting a little distorted. It's not like Rolls-Royce vs. Moped. And this isn't exactly Chicago. But whatever works is ok I guess.

Anyway, I hope there is no fire where there's smoke on this Senior Bowl possibly looking elsewhere stuff. That'd really suck. Can't lose that. The PR for the area for that event alone is too huge to lose.



:previous: Yeah he was refering to the Sean guy from New Orleans who started the trhread not you buddy.

[BlessedMobile]

Muskavon...you're a good poster. We are all talking about the guy from New Orleans who has a crawdad up his butt over Mobile. He picked a flaming thread title and ran with it. It's a good thing we don't care to bash New Orleans...there is no lack of ammunition there. I am greatful that we now have a pretty good cajun restaurant in the "French Market" at the Loop.

[Muskavon]

well thanks guys, I apologize for being too sensitive. It isn't "all about me" after all, lol. Considering we have a pretty good group of regulars here, mostly from Mobile, I have been thinking about putting together a thread that would hopefully be "sticky" worthy for the Gulf Coast. It'd basically start with a front page a lot like Atlanta's construction page in the "City Compilations" section here. But since we don't have the skyscraper potential of such, it'd basically be an info page. It'd list all the cities and townships of the Gulf counties from Hancock County in west Mississippi to Gulf County in Florida (and a few interconnected counties to the north such as Escambia & Washington, AL). Basically it'd be a spreadsheet that kept track of the latest population numbers, gdp figures, cost of living data, traffic data, maps, etc. that'd stay updated. And allow for highway project info, and such that affect the greater area but rarely make it into a particular city thread. Maybe it'd be a good way for us all to keep thinking as one unit in a competitive world. And maybe even a one stop shop for info to people considering investing in the area. I've already got a lot of the leg work done as a personal hobby, but I need a bit more time to gather the data to make the right initial post.

[10101000]

I like the idea, nice deal.

[Port_of_Bama]

What do you guys think of Tampa trying to take the Senior Bowl personaly I think becasue it`s a recesion people (cities) will try anything to make money even the cities you think that aren`t hurting are struggling right now ? I don`t believe Ladd is too small for the Senor Bowl it does need upgrades and I always wanted the city to add a second level to Ladd and I think they should not becasue of this Senior Bowl thing but becausee it can draw in more money ,I think. The differnce between the two stadiums are like 20 K I believe ladd sits 45 k and the one in Tamapa sits 65 K from what I read it`s a difference but not as much as they are making it out to be the staduim in Tamapa is just a Ladd with a second level or Legion Field before it was down sized. I beleiev Mobile is going to stick this one out if we can give Seattle hell over the tanker we can surely fight this one !

[nimsjus]

I saw that restaurant the other day i`ll have to try it some time soon.

Ill vouch for French Market as well. The owners are transplant from NO after Katrina. I had a roast beef poboy and it was amazing. Really messy with all the gravy. Best I have ever had. They get their bread from NO because they could not get any bread here that was up to their standards. My wife and I went back aq few weekends ago and had the beighnets and coffee with chicory. Nice way to spend a Saturday morning sipping coffee and eating beighnets outside. They have a big lunch counter and a well stocked bar too.