[nouveau_Mauvilla]

The Elation will be bigger than the Holiday. But the Elation and the Fantasy are about the same size. We will be getting the Fantasy soon, but then in spring it will be replaced with the Elation.

The 2,052-passenger Fantasy holds 42 percent more customers than the Holiday.

http://www.al.com/business/press-register/index.ssf?/base/business/1253281521130540.xml&coll=3

[Port_of_Bama]

Mobile experienced a slight GDP growth in 2008. This is good news for our area and when TK and the tanker comes on board along with supllyers I wonder how we will be ranked then.

http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1253870159189120.xml&coll=3

[bayou15]

Mobile is not getting the proper "metro love":shrug: That growth rate is only for the city. Compared to the other areas of the state( B-ham, hsv) which includes thier metro. That percentage should be much higher for Mobile !!! This also geauxs for the population count of the area. The metro should include eastern Jackson , George, and Greene Counties. Up to Atleast lower Wash. Co down to Point Clear. With that ,the metro should be around 550k. You can bet your sweet arse that Hoover is included with B-ham! on this gdp growth :hell:

[| BRAVO |]

Wouldn't Baldwin County be included in Mobile's Metro? I've always assumed Baldwin and Mobile go hand-in-hand.

Of course Hoover is included in Bham's numbers. We are part of Birmingham.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

I think Mobile and Baldwin split a few years back. Could be wrong, though.

[Alabadrock]

They did split a few years back. Baldwin does not belong in Mobile's metro. The metro formations go by plain numbers, not culture. The purpose of metro areas is to show economic influence and the such, not to show the cultural and traditional bonds between areas.

For those reasons, Baldwin is not included. Of course Hoover's growth was included in Birmingham's growth numbers, this is because Hoover is in Jefferson county. Shelby is also included, because 25% or greater percent of the county's population commutes daily to Jefferson county.

Less than 25% percent of Baldwin county commutes daily to Mobile county, therefore, Baldwin is not a part of Mobile's metro area.

There are reasons for the county makeup of metro areas.

[Port_of_Bama]

Alabadrock: That less than 25 % is hard to believe given the most populated areas of the county is right acroos the bay.


As for metro Baldwin and Washington counties should be included which would be a little more than 610 K. For CSA parts of Jackson,Greene,and Geroge counties should be included as well. I know the city is pushing for population increas for the 2010 census but MSA and CSA numbers need to be looked at as well.

[Alabadrock]

Alabadrock: That less than 25 % is hard to believe given the most populated areas of the county is right acroos the bay.


As for metro Baldwin and Washington counties should be included which would be a little more than 610 K. For CSA parts of Jackson,Greene,and Geroge counties should be included as well. I know the city is pushing for population increas for the 2010 census but MSA and CSA numbers need to be looked at as well.

It's not too hard to believe in my opinion... 25 percent of the population of Baldwin County is about 45,000 thousand, which is maybe 10 to 20 thousand less than the population of the Daphne and Spanish Fort urbanized area. Now, of those 55 to 65 thousand in that urbanized area, only about 45 to 50 thousand actually work. Most of them are going to work in Baldwin County, and about 20 to 25 thousand probably work in Mobile County, which if you look at traffic counts is pretty close to being correct.

Fact is, judging by the numbers that the government has compiled, less than 25% of Baldwin County works in Mobile County.

Want to know some other places that are like this? A good example would be the relationship that Madison and Morgan Counties have. Madison and Morgan Counties have much more of a relationship, culturally and traditionally, than Mobile and Baldwin Counties, yet, they are still separate (though that will probably change by the next census).

Another: Houston and Coffee Counties have a big relationship economically, culturally, and traditionally, yet they are not part of a single metro area.

Another: Jefferson and Cullman Counties have a big relationship economically, yet they also are not part of a single metro area.

Same with Calhoun/Talladega, Etowah/Cherokee, Calhoun/Etowah.

Eventually, Baldwin County will become part of Mobile's metro, as will Washington, and some others in the area. It's just that the number of people commuting to Mobile County hasn't hit that critical mass yet.

[bayou15]

Madison and Morgan Counties have much more of a relationship, culturally and traditionally, than Mobile and Baldwin Counties,

http://www.lolfail.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/05/fail.bmp

Culturally ,I would say 60 to 70 percent who live in Baldwin County are Mobilians. That's not counting down by the beaches.

From New Orleans to Pensacola Culturally we should be our own state. Traditionally we get treated like the stepchild. Which is anything south of the Dolly Parton. :yes:






It's just that the number of people commuting to Mobile County hasn't hit that critical mass yet.


http://api.ning.com/files/SVnC9W7SBKR6ZuTeEumppn5umqr2wczljn99gUa5Ayo_/Tyrone2.jpg



Hey brah , try cruising I-10(4 lanes only)from Mississippi to Mobile where I-65 meets during rush hour. ......O yeah i forgot , also that little strech of road we call the BAYWAY!!! I can't wait til that critical mass shows up ! haha:

[Alabadrock]

Have you ever travel on I-565 from Huntsville to Decatur? Where you have to sit in traffic for maybe an hour to move a mile? And that's not an exaggeration, I've done it multiple times. It's only 4 lanes. Oh yea, and it's just a highway, not a freeway or interstate, just a highway.

I don't see how Madison/Morgan and Mobile/Baldwin can really claim who has the strong relationship. I shouldn't have claimed that Madison/Morgan had a stronger bond.

Frankly, I don't understand your claim of my "fail." I was the one who presented facts and numbers, not disgruntled opinions. If you look at the traffic counts, presented by ALDOT, North Alabama has much more congestion. I've done the numbers myself, I did them literally a week ago for my Urban and Regional Transport Systems class...

Who are these 60 to 70 percent Mobilians that you're talking about. Some of my best friends are from the Daphne/Spanish Fort area, and none of them associate themselves with Mobile, while nearly everyone from my hometown (Decatur) associates themselves with Huntsville. So, really I would say that there is more of a bond.

Brah, I've done the math, tedious amounts of it, so much that it makes my head hurt. I love Mobile, it's the most beautiful city in the state, and I do mean that. Maybe I just understand the situation because Morgan County is in the same situation that Baldwin is in. I don't want Morgan to be devoured by Huntsville's MSA, so obviously I'm gonna take Baldwin's side.

There are specific criteria that a county has to follow to be considered a metro county, and Baldwin County plain and simple does not follow them at the moment. At the moment Daphne-Fairhope lead the Baldwin County economy, judging by the commuting patterns.

I would honestly love to see Baldwin be part of Mobile's MSA, and Washington, and the entire SE side of Miss, I really would. Why? Because what's good for Mobile is good for the state. But, again, Baldwin County doesn't fit the description of a metro county.

Despite these 117,000 people who all mysteriously came from Mobile, the fact remains that Baldwin County is not part of Mobile's metro, because less than 25% of the workforce of Baldwin commutes to Mobile County daily. I don't see how you can argue that, frankly, it's impossible unless you want to dispute the accuracy of the federal government's numbers.

So, since I have presented my case, and it needs no further presentation...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/3955291416_1eb065aeaa.jpg

By the way, I don't like arguing and waring with fans of my own state. So, consider this my last post on the subject. Say what you will about me, attack me personally, I don't care. Just know, I'm not listening to your attacks anymore.

[Port_of_Bama]

Alabadrock: I see where you are coming from


I was riding by the 250 St.Francis Street Condo rendering sign today and noticed that 13 out of the 26 units are sold now.Five on the 1st floor and 8 on the 2nd.I wonder if they are looking for 80 % occupancy for it to be built ?

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

:previous: I just assumed they couldn't get the funding. Seems like it's been on the table for so long now.

[WEMO]

They did split a few years back. Baldwin does not belong in Mobile's metro. The metro formations go by plain numbers, not culture. The purpose of metro areas is to show economic influence and the such, not to show the cultural and traditional bonds between areas.

For those reasons, Baldwin is not included. Of course Hoover's growth was included in Birmingham's growth numbers, this is because Hoover is in Jefferson county. Shelby is also included, because 25% or greater percent of the county's population commutes daily to Jefferson county.

Less than 25% percent of Baldwin county commutes daily to Mobile county, therefore, Baldwin is not a part of Mobile's metro area.

There are reasons for the county makeup of metro areas.

Daphne and Fairhope are included, not all of baldwin.

[SouthSky]

I think we're put at a disadvantage because Baldwin county is the largest county in the state and among the top in the eastern US and that the population can be connected to metro areas or other smaller cities that are in fact closer than Mobile (thus no commuting). Think of eastern and southern Baldwin being closer to Pensacola and northern Baldwin being quite a good ways from Mobile.

I guess it all plays into the fact that Mobile is dead in the middle of the central Gulf Coast possible megalopolis that is cannibalizing metro population numbers and after combination blows out every metro in the area other than maybe Birmingham or New Orleans.

Mobile's Nielsen DMA is ~1.5 million... and that doesn't even include the Gulfport/Biloxi area.

[Port_of_Bama]

:previous: What`s a Nielson DMA ?

[WEMO]

I think we're put at a disadvantage because Baldwin county is the largest county in the state and among the top in the eastern US and that the population can be connected to metro areas or other smaller cities that are in fact closer than Mobile (thus no commuting). Think of eastern and southern Baldwin being closer to Pensacola and northern Baldwin being quite a good ways from Mobile.

I guess it all plays into the fact that Mobile is dead in the middle of the central Gulf Coast possible megalopolis that is cannibalizing metro population numbers and after combination blows out every metro in the area other than maybe Birmingham or New Orleans.

Mobile's Nielsen DMA is ~1.5 million... and that doesn't even include the Gulfport/Biloxi area.

Maybe in the future it will change. I am ready for a bigger number myself..

[Port_of_Bama]

I am as well WEMO its not fair at all. Washington County should have been included a long time ago as well as our 3 Mississippi neighbors. I could very much well give our MSA with Escambia,Washington,and Baldwin counties included around 635 K and as far as CSA goes our three Mississippi neighbors should be included because Mississippi to me is West Mobile.With our three neighbors included Mobile`s 7 county CSA(Mobile,Baldwin,Washington,Escambia,Jackson,Greene,and George County) should be around 803 K give or take.

[DallasTexan]

I don't think it matters how big a metro is, does it?

[SouthSky]

I don't think it matters how big a metro is, does it?

It matters little in the long run but businesses certainly look at metro numbers for potential customers.

[Alabadrock]

It only matters if the correct amount of people commute to the core county to fill the definition of a metro area... Otherwise we're just adding counties to metro areas just willynilly and before we know it BOOM! Birmingham metro has grown by 2 million!

[Alabadrock]

Apparently, Mobile and the Senior Bowl are close to signing a 9 year deal :)

http://blog.al.com/live/2009/10/official_senior_bowl_mobile_po.html

[SouthSky]

Apparently, Mobile and the Senior Bowl are close to signing a 9 year deal :)

http://blog.al.com/live/2009/10/official_senior_bowl_mobile_po.html

Just in time to build a new stadium.

Hey Birmingham... want to send that dome down here (after you pay for it of course)? :D

[Port_of_Bama]

Yes it gives us enough time to build a new stadium or expand Ladd.

[Alabadrock]

Of course, expansion of the Ladd or replacement might be part of the deal. I'm hoping it is.

[NitekKetin]

^....and let funding for the design and construction not come from the public.

[Alabadrock]

^....and let funding for the design and construction not come from the public.

If none of the money was to come from the public, it would never happen. The Senior Bowl. Plus, if the city/county didn't contribute to the stadium financially, the public would have no say or ownership in the stadium design or use.

[Electrical Porpoise]

We seriously do not need to throw another dollar into Ladd. It is kind of sad to me due to it's history - but no matter how many band-aids you put on the ole lady she is still going to look like a a clump of steel in a poor part of the city.

We should tear down the hellhole that is the mall and recycle all of the materials. That should save us a few bucks. ;)

[pboo74]

I agree we need not to put any more money into ladd stadium,What i said before in previous post is to put a stadium downtown and over where orange groove projects were torn down would be a perfect spot..That would rejuvenate that part of town as well as looking in the back ground an seeing the skyline,and bring alot of business downtown have high school football games,USA home games,and other bowl games as well?

[NitekKetin]

I always liked the idea of a stadium, boutique hotel and small entertainment district in Orange Grove. Although it will never be constructed, it could serve as a catalyst for a rejuvenated Water Street commercial corridor. Everything would be constructed on piers and pilings.

[Port_of_Bama]

That would be a nice development for the Orange Grove area. If this stadium will be hosting all of these bowl games and South`s future SEC schedule they will need to build a 70- 80 k arena.

[Alabadrock]

South's future SEC schedule? I hope you're not implying that USA would become part of the SEC... though, if you're simply saying that it would need to prepare to simply host SEC schools for the occasional game, then I def agree.

Troy is getting prepared to host the first SEC school to visit its campus in 2010 I believe. So, I say that whatever Movie Gallery Stadium's capacity is or greater would be adequate. Though, I think we would all like one that's larger than that...

[Port_of_Bama]

Yes ,South is scheduled to play SEC schools in 2012. Ladd holds around 45 K and the Senior and GMAC bowls were both threatening to leave because the stadium is too small. The last 2 South Alabama games at Ladd have been near capacity and that`s with all USA fans. Mobile in my opinion is more of a football city than any of the big four,I havn`t seen a UAB game as packed as South`s. To successfuly host the Senior and GMAC bowl we will need a 70K arena/staduim. Whith local support(fans) in 2012 when we play SEC schools we will deffinintly need a stadium of that size. Which is really Ladd Staduim with a small second level not really that much bigger than Ladd. Being from Mobile I have seen highschool rivalries nearly almost brought out 15-25 K fans !!

[Dyingyak]

Yes ,South is scheduled to play SEC schools in 2012. Ladd holds around 45 K and the Senior and GMAC bowls were both threatening to leave because the stadium is too small. The last 2 South Alabama games at Ladd have been near capacity and that`s with all USA fans. Mobile in my opinion is more of a football city than any of the big four,I havn`t seen a UAB game as packed as South`s. To successfuly host the Senior and GMAC bowl we will need a 70K arena/staduim. Whith local support(fans) in 2012 when we play SEC schools we will deffinintly need a stadium of that size. Which is really Ladd Staduim with a small second level not really that much bigger than Ladd. Being from Mobile I have seen highschool rivalries nearly almost brought out 15-25 K fans !!

Wait a few years and see how the South program evolves...then see how many people will come to games. One of UAB's major problems with increasing attendance is the performance of the team.

Mobile's location is also much improved to draw in football fan's as well. Birmingham is situated close enough to both Tuscaloosa and Auburn that they will draw their fans leaving Birmingham with a smaller audience to watch a game in person.

[Port_of_Bama]

Wait a few years and see how the South program evolves...then see how many people will come to games. One of UAB's major problems with increasing attendance is the performance of the team.

Mobile's location is also much improved to draw in football fan's as well. Birmingham is situated close enough to both Tuscaloosa and Auburn that they will draw their fans leaving Birmingham with a smaller audience to watch a game in person.



I agree Mobile`s location is an advantage.

[Alabadrock]

Birmingham used to be the football capital of the South, we see how that's turned out... I don't think we really have to worry. As the Mobile area grows, there's going to be a real need for a large stadium of 50 to 60 thousand, maybe even seventy thousand.

I wasn't aware that USA was going to HOST the SEC schools, very good to hear. As long as one of them isn't Alabama, I'll be routing for USA ;)

[Port_of_Bama]

LOL, Well my dear friend..........

[OCA REP]

South's future SEC schedule? I hope you're not implying that USA would become part of the SEC... though, if you're simply saying that it would need to prepare to simply host SEC schools for the occasional game, then I def agree.

Troy is getting prepared to host the first SEC school to visit its campus in 2010 I believe. So, I say that whatever Movie Gallery Stadium's capacity is or greater would be adequate. Though, I think we would all like one that's larger than that...

I shared my comments on this subject back on Post 4468 (http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showpost.php?p=4451490&postcount=4468).

Dream BIG boys and girls! :cheers:

[| BRAVO |]

Is USA part of the University of Alabama System or are they an independent school with their own Board like UNA?

[SouthSky]

USA is separate like UNA.

[| BRAVO |]

Well that affects things... IMO, USA has a better chance of making something of their program than UAB or UAH (if they had one) because the UA system seems to have only the Tide's best interest in mind. Never mind the fact Birmingham is so close to ttown and helped build their program.

Good Luck to USA and War Eagle!

[Bogue]

UAB athletics stinks b/c UAB's athletics dept. is extremely poorly run and the students at UAB don't care. UAB football is a money pit that's not produced anything of worth to this point. That's the beginning and the end of the story. All the hand wringing conspiracy theories about the UASystem opposing UAB athletics is just B'ham's culture of victimhood rearing its head.

UAB is a cautionary tale for USA athletics, though. In the college game it's all about good leadership (coaching) and marketing (recruiting). UAB has never had either in football. I think USA's done a good job on marketing and especially on connecting the football program w/ the student body (something UAB never really managed to do). As a result of good marketing, they managed to be the team w/ the 3rd highest season ticket sales in Alabama... besting both UAB & Troy. They've done a good job cultivating ties to the local business community and that will pay out well down the road. While I doubt anyone here has any delusions of USA overtaking either of the state's two primary athletics programs, it's very much within the grasp of the school to overtake Troy as 3rd best. It's worth remembering that USF (a team that was #2 & in position to play for the national title a few years back before a late season swoon) was a few years before that in this same position as USA is currently. It remains to be seen how good the coaching turns out to be, but I have faith in Jones right now.

There are, of course, quite a few local players that slip between the cracks of schools like Alabama & Auburn (etc.). Players like Pat White, for example. That could become the cornerstones for the creation of something special at USA. Players that USM & Troy have been getting in the region will now have another option. A good salesman at USA can take advantage of being in one of America's recruiting hotbeds (central Gulf Coast). Coach Saban (among others) has spoken before about focusing efforts on recruiting within a 5 hour drive of your campus. W/in a 5 hour drive of USA is an awful lot of real estate and an awful lot of excellent players, not all of which are going to get SEC offers.

[Port_of_Bama]

^^^ Well stated and USA has done a great job of marketing .The whole Gulf Alabama region has been waiting on this program for years . Everyone is excited and are anticipating on a proposed new and bigger stadium. USA will never replace UA and AU in this life time, but what I do know is when South start playing SEC schools in a new arena I`m sure we will be able to pack a 70 + k stadium especially if South`s players keep scoring like thay are now. From the pensacola area through out Mississippi Gulf Coast will be in support.

[Alabadrock]

UAB athletics stinks b/c UAB's athletics dept. is extremely poorly run and the students at UAB don't care. UAB football is a money pit that's not produced anything of worth to this point. That's the beginning and the end of the story. All the hand wringing conspiracy theories about the UASystem opposing UAB athletics is just B'ham's culture of victimhood rearing its head.

UAB is a cautionary tale for USA athletics, though. In the college game it's all about good leadership (coaching) and marketing (recruiting). UAB has never had either in football. I think USA's done a good job on marketing and especially on connecting the football program w/ the student body (something UAB never really managed to do). As a result of good marketing, they managed to be the team w/ the 3rd highest season ticket sales in Alabama... besting both UAB & Troy. They've done a good job cultivating ties to the local business community and that will pay out well down the road. While I doubt anyone here has any delusions of USA overtaking either of the state's two primary athletics programs, it's very much within the grasp of the school to overtake Troy as 3rd best. It's worth remembering that USF (a team that was #2 & in position to play for the national title a few years back before a late season swoon) was a few years before that in this same position as USA is currently. It remains to be seen how good the coaching turns out to be, but I have faith in Jones right now.

There are, of course, quite a few local players that slip between the cracks of schools like Alabama & Auburn (etc.). Players like Pat White, for example. That could become the cornerstones for the creation of something special at USA. Players that USM & Troy have been getting in the region will now have another option. A good salesman at USA can take advantage of being in one of America's recruiting hotbeds (central Gulf Coast). Coach Saban (among others) has spoken before about focusing efforts on recruiting within a 5 hour drive of your campus. W/in a 5 hour drive of USA is an awful lot of real estate and an awful lot of excellent players, not all of which are going to get SEC offers.

Not trying to turn this into a UAB thread, but I do agree. Obviously, since I go to Bama, I'm gonna be kinda biased, but the UA System can only restrict certain kinds of money. If you remember back to when Saban was hired, people were all up in arms about how much we were paying him, when they didn't realize that they money we spend on him can't be used for academic purposes, only athletics. That's why you see so many constant facility upgrades, because the athletic department doesn't have anything else to spend it on.

Anyways, if UAB did a better job marketing the team with things like billboard throughout town, special game promotions, exciting events between quarters, etc... I have no doubt the city might start getting more interested. The school has A LOT of alumni, so there is a seemingly limitless pool of people to draw attention from. Trust me, they want to be interested and support UAB, they just don't have a reason to.

Back to USA, I don't care what anyone else says about the potential talent of the future teams, anything is possible. Look at Florida, back in the 1960s 1970s no one cared about Florida, and it was just some kinda country bumpkin football team. We see how that's turned out. USA's success is going to lie in their ability to create a fun atmosphere and create actually interest in the team. Despite what everyone says about how talent is what attracts good recruits, it really isn't. Sure, it's a factor, but recruits are usually looking for a place that they feel comfortable in, that they won't mind living in for the next 3 to 4 years. Nor does history really have that big of an impact.

Though, USA is fortunate. They're getting into play without all the stigma that might follow a team that's been in existence for decades. Many kids grow up feeling negatively towards teams, and usually for certain reasons. Fortunately for USA, that isn't the case. They have a clean slate, and if they play it right, they can really succeed.

[| BRAVO |]

Whatever... blah blah blah.
It's not worth my time.


Good luck to USA and War Eagle!

[Port_of_Bama]

^^^ I agree well to both Alabadrock and Bravo.

[nimsjus]

Anyone got any picutres of the government plaza annex? I assume it is completed by now. Any other new projects springing up or old ones making progress?

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

The new government annex isn't move-in ready yet, but I think it is nearing completion. The outside I think I can say is complete and the inside is all that's left. Anyone else find it strange that the annex really needs all that space? They don't take up that much currently, and I believe they are the only tennants of the building.

Other projects? Mainly all the new restaurant openings in midtown, downtown, and around south. Can't think of anything else really.. although MARC is now operating a hydroponic lettuce "farm" if that interests you.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

off of the September newsletter.
A new concept for downtown will open its doors next month. The Umbrella Seed, a downtown creative and wellness foundation is scheduled to open October 15th at 552 Dauphin Street. The operation, envisioned by ceramic artist Zach DePolo, will combine the visual and performing arts with health and wellness. The first event is a Haunted Hospital fundraiser, featuring a haunted film scramble and haunted gifts in the gallery.

In other development news:

wellbornIdeas, an integrated marketing solutions firm, officially opened during the September Art Walk. The firm, which specializes in innovative direct marketing strategies, was founded in 2001 in Austin, Texas by Stacy Wellborn, who moved the agency to Mobile because of the growth potential in the Port City.

Maxim Industries has moved into the space at 78 N. Joachim Street. The firm provides skilled labor for area shipyards and other industries.

The Mediterranean Sandwich Company will be opening at 272 Dauphin Street, just in time for BayFest. The new eatery will feature such Mediterranean favorites as falafels and gyros.

Not sure when you were down last, but there have also been a few new gallery openings and restaurants, and Spot of Tea got a makeover.

[Port_of_Bama]

Spot of Tea also has a new social lounge/bar on the 2nd floor(can`t think of the name) it has a laid back cosmo atmosphere with big comfortable couches and all.


Does anyone know where the new hooker bar is/will be downtown ?

[WEMO]

Anyone got any picutres of the government plaza annex? I assume it is completed by now. Any other new projects springing up or old ones making progress?

I have some and will post soon.

[SouthSky]

Does anyone know where the new hooker bar is/will be downtown ?

Hooker bar?

[Port_of_Bama]

Hooker bar?



LOL, My bad Hookah bar.

[SouthSky]

LOL, My bad Hookah bar.

Haha... I thought we had a little Bourbon Street infusion on the way.

[nimsjus]

The new government annex isn't move-in ready yet, but I think it is nearing completion. The outside I think I can say is complete and the inside is all that's left. Anyone else find it strange that the annex really needs all that space? They don't take up that much currently, and I believe they are the only tennants of the building.

The annex will house the probate court and several other groups that are now housed in random buildings across downtown. I know the probate court was in the old Press Register building on Govt (I had to go get my marriage license there). Now everyone will be under two, city owned, side-by side roofs rather than leasing around downtown.

[Port_of_Bama]

Haha... I thought we had a little Bourbon Street infusion on the way.


Ha ha yeah someone mentioned on this forum that it suppose to have a Mardi Gra them to it with games and all. Sounds like a good hang out spot I think it suppose to be on Royal street I believe.

[Alxx611]

LOL, My bad Hookah bar.

I talked to Tony, the owner of Cafe Royal, which is where the hookah bar will open. He said he'll open it up as soon as he finds workers. He hasn't hired anyone yet. Its supposed to have pooltables, flatscreen tvs, and Nintendo Wii.

Also, I took some pictures of a few places.

This is of Gulf City Lounge, a new cajun/ creole restaurant opening up across the street from Bienville Square. It has a second floor which will be a bar, and the owner told me he wants to have zydeco music played there on certain nights:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1979.jpg



Also I've heard that a few local artists have teamed up with developers by producing drawings of potential stores and bars and posting them on the windows of empty retail space, likely to inspire investors and entrepeneurs. Examples:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1975.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1973.jpg

And now a few bonus pics of downtown during Bayfest + USA Construction:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1934.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1949.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1955.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1960.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1883.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1879.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/100_1896.jpg

[Port_of_Bama]

Downtown has the food and entertainment all we need now is retail.

[SouthSky]

This is of Gulf City Lounge, a new cajun/ creole restaurant opening up across the street from Bienville Square. It has a second floor which will be a bar, and the owner told me he wants to have zydeco music played there on certain nights:

Which side of Bienville?

By the way, thanks for the pics. :banana:

[Port_of_Bama]

I have a gut feeling it is on the west side of the square.

[elb401]

Thats a neat idea to put up drawings of possible uses in the for lease buildings.

Thanks for the pictures... its nice to see that there are a few new restaurants in the downtown area. I just hope they will survive!!

[Alxx611]

Correction, its the Gulf City Lodge, not Gulf City Lounge.

Its on what I guess is the south side of Bienville, right next to the Gayfers Building.

Time to Eat on Dauphin Street closed down, but the one in theodore is still open.


The old Rousso's building next to Ft Conde was supposed to become a Cuban restaurant, under the ownership of Bob Baumhower, but I'm not really sure what happened to that plan.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

The annex will house the probate court and several other groups that are now housed in random buildings across downtown. I know the probate court was in the old Press Register building on Govt (I had to go get my marriage license there). Now everyone will be under two, city owned, side-by side roofs rather than leasing around downtown.

Thanks for clearing that up. Makes more sense that way.

[SouthSky]

"The recession is over in Mobile"

Link (http://blog.al.com/live/2009/10/recession_ends_in_mobile_hunts.html)

[elb401]

I hope thats true!!

that sucks that time to eat closed down.

[Alabadrock]

"The recession is over in Mobile"

Link (http://blog.al.com/live/2009/10/recession_ends_in_mobile_hunts.html)

Looking at it, it would seem that there could be a bit of a domino effect in a few months. Hopefully, with the success of Huntsville, Decatur will start to recover, and with Columbus, maybe along will come Auburn. I guess we just have to wait.

[nimsjus]

The tower out at USA is looking really good. They have made more progress at USA in the last 5-10 years than they did in the first 40 years the school was around.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

The National Center for Bicycling and Walking (NCBW) have come to our coastal region to offer technical assistance to Smart Coast and local communities to increase the ability for citizens to move around safely on foot and by bike. The goal is to jump start a citizen driven effort to change policies and attitudes about walkability and bikeability in planning and designing roads.
The concept of a Complete Street is one that is sweeping the nation as almost 1/3 of the total population is not being served by the road systems in our country. A complete street is one that is designed and built for everyone to use such as pedestrians, cyclists, and handicapped, not just automobiles.
This visit by NCBW is the second in a series of visits through March 2010 that will aid in the development of a strong coalition of passionate people who will guide a 5 yr plan of action to develop a more active lifestyle in our coastal region.
During this stay the focus will be to observe the workings of the roads, sidewalks, intersections, and trails to get a better idea of what is working and what seems not to be working. This will also coincide with an effort to create a walk to school day in an area that is unable to allow their children to walk to school.
The events planned during the weekly visit are lunch meetings with elected officials and planners and intersection audits in Mobile. There will also be observation of school children's ability to get to school. NCBW is researching local assets such as parks and recreational facilities as well as trails and paths in the region. All this assistance is available to our region through a Robert Wood Johnson Grant aimed at reducing childhood obesity.

From the Director


Complete Streets

The City of Fairhope stepped up to the plate and passed a resolution to consider designing and building roads for all users. This occured after months of research and study by a small group of people who are passionate about the future of their ability to get around.
These people approached Fairhope's Planning and Zoning Commission to ask about creating a policy for the city. The Commission charged the Pedestrian and Biking committee to work with Smart Coast's Complete Streets sub-committee to propose a policy. The Planning and Zoning Commission adopted the proposed policy unanimously.
It then went to the City Council where on October 12, Fairhope became the first city in Alabama to adopt a Complete Streets Policy.
Congratulations, Fairhope Mayor and Council.


Envision Coastal Alabama
Annual Breakfast

Ocotber 28, 2009
7:30am
Grand Hotel
Grand Ballroom

The cost is $20 and includes breakfast. Interested persons may register by calling Ailey Arrow at 251-431-8621 or emailing:
aarrow@mobilechamber.com.


Speaker:
Joel Kotkin, author of The City: A Global History and The New Geography, and a frequent contributor to Forbes.com and The Wall Street Journal. Mr. Kotkin, an internationally-recognized authority on global, economic, political and social trends, will speak on the future sustainability of our nation's cities and suburbs and will share his perspective on how they will further evolve in the next decades.

WATCH FOR THIS EVENT


Smart Coast
is bringing
Mary Collins, who wrote the book:
American Idle
to Page & Pallete in Fairhope for a
Mother's Day 2010 Book
signing and Bike Ride.

Save the date:
May 7-9, 2010.

www.smartcoast.org

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

Navy's newest warships top out at more than 50 mph

By DAVID SHARP, Associated Press Writer David Sharp, Associated Press Writer – 26 mins ago
BATH, Maine – The Navy's need for speed is being answered by a pair of warships that have reached freeway speeds during testing at sea.

Independence, a 418-foot warship built in Alabama, boasts a top speed in excess of 45 knots, or about 52 mph, and sustained 44 knots for four hours during builder trials that wrapped up this month off the Gulf Coast. The 378-foot Freedom, a ship built in Wisconsin by a competing defense contractor, has put up similar numbers.

Both versions of the Littoral Combat Ship use powerful diesel engines, as well as gas turbines for extra speed. They use steerable waterjets instead of propellers and rudders and have shallower drafts than conventional warships, letting them zoom close to shore.

The ships, better able to chase down pirates, have been fast-tracked because the Navy wants vessels that can operate in coastal, or littoral, waters. Freedom is due to be deployed next year, two years ahead of schedule.

Independence is an aluminum, tri-hulled warship built by Austal USA in Mobile, Ala. The lead contractor is Maine's Bath Iron Works, a subsidiary of General Dynamics.

Lockheed Martin Corp. is leading the team that built Freedom in Marinette, Wis. It looks more like a conventional warship, with a single hull made of steel.

The stakes are high for both teams. The Navy plans to select Lockheed Martin or General Dynamics, but not both, as the builder. The Navy has ordered one more ship from each of the teams before it chooses the final design. Eventually, the Navy wants to build up to 55 of them.

Speed has long been relished by Navy skippers. Capt. John Paul Jones, sometimes described as father of the U.S. Navy, summed it up this way in 1778: "I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast; for I intend to go in harm's way."

Eric Wertheim, author and editor of the U.S. Naval Institute's "Guide to Combat Fleets of the World," said speed is a good thing, but it comes at a cost.

"This is really something revolutionary," Wertheim said. "The question is how important and how expensive is this burst of speed?"

Early cost estimates for Littoral Combat Ships were about $220 million apiece, but costs spiraled because of the Navy's requirements and its desire to expedite construction. The cost of the ships is capped at $460 million apiece, starting in the new fiscal year.

Both ships are built to accommodate helicopters and mission "modules" for either anti-submarine missions, mine removal or traditional surface warfare. The goal is for the modules to be swapped out in 24 hours, and no later than 96 hours, allowing the ships to adapt quickly to new missions, said Cmdr. Victor Chen, a Navy spokesman.

While they're fast, they aren't necessarily the fastest military ships afloat. The Navy used to have missile-equipped hydrofoils and the Marines' air-cushioned landing craft is capable of similar speeds, Wertheim said. And smaller ships are capable of higher speeds.

Nonetheless, the speed is impressive, especially considering that other large naval vessels have been cruising along at a relatively pokey 30 to 35 knots for decades.

Loren Thompson, a defense analyst at the Lexington Institute, noted that Independence sustained 44 knots despite a 30-knot headwind and 6- to 8-foot seas in Alabama's Mobile Bay. "For a ship of this size, it's simply unheard of to sustain that rate of speed for four hours," he said.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_speedy_warship

Mostly because it mentioned us. Nothing wrong with a little PR. :cool:

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

Though the temperatures might argue otherwise, the holiday season is quickly approaching, and it's time to begin planning for decorations and activities to draw folks downtown. In recent years Downtown Mobile has been woefully unadorned for the holidays, but an energetic group of Royal Street businesses have decided to make downtown THE place to visit to see fun and fancy decorations. See the story below for details on how you can participate.

In the meantime, enjoy the fabulous fall temperatures... take a walk at lunch to see the new plantings...come down for the countless events... contribute to the great street scene the defines downtown!


We also note, with sadness, the passing of downtown icon, Virginia Naman. Mrs. Naman oversaw Naman's Department Store for decades, and even when others abandoned the city center for the suburbs, she became more determined to succeed in her beloved downtown. Of course, she was right all along. The redevelopment of downtown was and is worth the effort, and we will miss her presence as we continue the mission.

Development Buzz

For obvious reasons we love announcing new businesses that have located or moved downtown, but we especially love it when the business is an entirely new enterprise. That's the case with Boom Buggy, a pedicab operation that will carry passengers through the streets of Downtown Mobile during the day and night. The buggies will begin operation in about two weeks and will not charge a fee...instead, the passenger will tip the driver (or pedaller as the case may be). June Reddix-Stennis bought two of the cabs from a manufacturer in England and plans to begin operation the first week of November.

In other development news:

If you grew up along the Alabama Gulf Coast you probably visited the Gulf Gate Lodge at the beach a time or two. You'll soon have a chance to relive those moments in an entirely different setting...Downtown Mobile! The son of the original proprietors will be bring the Gulf Coast seafood classics to 161 Dauphin Street as soon as renovations are complete.
BP has moved its offices from mid-town Mobile in the Bel Air Mall area to the RSA tower. The 20 employees are occupying offices on the 20th floor of the tower.
The Birmingham law office of Maynard Cooper & Gayle has opened an office in downtown. Headed up by local attorney Jay Watkins, the Port City office is located at 3 South Royal Street, above Serda's Coffee

This month we say goodbye to Time to Eat, whose owners are focusing on their Theodore operation, but we are pleased to welcome Fine Dining and Catering, which just opened its doors at the corner of Jackson and St. Francis streets last week. The establishment is currently open for lunch Monday - Friday and dinner on Friday & Saturday evenings. The menu, which changes daily, features a soul food centered menu.


In other news:

Haven't decided on a Halloween costume yet? If you have a yellow hard hat, a red checkered shirt, overalls and a tool belt, you could be Bob the Builder...and you could get into the Gulf Coast Exploreum for all the permanent exhibits as well as the Bob the Builder exhibit free on October 31st. The costume promotion is open to all ages.

The Mediterranean Sandwich Co. at 274 Dauphin Street is now open and offers a great $5 lunch during the week and late night on the weekends.

The Mobile City Council will hold a public hearing on the renewal of the Downtown Mobile Business Improvement District (BID) on Tuesday, December 1, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at Government Plaza. The BID was established in 2005 to provide services to property owners and amenities to visitors that were not then available. It must be reauthorized by the city council every five years.

If you would like to read a draft of the BID Management Plan, which sets the focus and scope of work for the next five years, please click the link below. It is also on the home page of our website at www.downtownmobile.org.

Decking the Balconies for the Holidays

Towns and cities across the country create holiday displays that attract visitors from near and far, but
except for the beautiful Christmas tree in Bienville Square, there hasn't been much reason to come downtown for great holiday decor in recent years. Some energetic businesses along Royal Street are working to change all that this year and they're making it easy for you to get involved.

The balconies at the Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown will be alive with music as area choirs are invited to perform during the holiday season. Space is provided at no charge and the hotel will provide a hot cocoa and cookie reception after the event. Interested groups should contact either Cynthia Mitchell at Cynthia.Mitchell@Hilton.com or Justine Burbank at Justine.Burbank@Hilton.com. The Hampton Inn will also be sponsoring a decorating contest on the 16 balconies facing Royal Street... look for details soon on how you can join the competition.

The Royal in Lights Committee is also planning to brighten everyone's holiday season with a dazzling light display and a special mailbox for Letters to Santa. We're hoping to offer families a no-cost event to celebrate the season and giving them an extra reason to come downtown!



Two Fundraisers Aid the Homeless

As homelessness becomes more of a problem in Gulf Coast cities (in 2009 the homeless population in Mobile and Baldwin Counties grew 42%), the work of the Waterfront Rescue Mission becomes more important than ever. For more 60 years the Mission has been a faith-based rescue and recovery organization for the poor, addicted, abused and homeless, helping to rehabilitate those with few resources or family support.

You can help with this valuable mission by attending a fund-raising luncheon on November 20th at the Mobile Convention Center. The speaker for the event is Mile Yankoski, author of Under the Overpass, an account of his life-altering decision to trade his life of a privileged college student to become homeless for five months.

There is no charge for luncheon guests, but the Waterfront Mission is seeking table sponsors and will accept donations. To make reservations or for more information, contact Reta Barnes at 251-433-1847 or rbarnes@waterfrontmission.org.

Also, a popular annual event that combines art, food and fund-raising is scheduled for Friday, November 13th from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. at Christ Church Cathedral. Art Soup will once again offer soup bowls crafted by Mobile's top artists and wonderful soup selections by some of Mobile's top chefs. Proceeds will go to 15 Place, Mobile's multi-service center for the homeless. Tickets are $40 per person and are available at the door or in advance by calling 15 Place at 432-7227.

[Port_of_Bama]

^^^ Sounds exciting and I`m looking forward to it.

[Exodus]

That 6th pic looks great, the colors are vivid, and the contrast of highrises behind those 19th century homes adds to it, nice job:tup:

[SouthSky]

Mobile was highlighted in an article in the New York Times regarding RSA's investments across the state.

Link here (http://downtownmobile.org/images/news/mobile_in_ny_times.pdf)

[nimsjus]

Lots of news in the PR today
Unity Park article:

http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1257675338102300.xml&coll=3

Fantasy replacing the Holiday and the Holiday's last voyage:

http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1257675328102300.xml&coll=3

http://blog.al.com/live/2009/11/carnivals_cruise_ship_holiday.html

http://www.al.com/business/press-register/index.ssf?/base/business/1257588919270410.xml&coll=3

and last but not least, plans for the Amsouth Building renovation, renaming, and the promise of exterior "surprises":

http://blog.al.com/live/2009/11/carnival_atmosphere_former_ams.html

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

Interesting... I wonder what will become of the "GM" building, and not sure what I think of the plan just yet. At least it is confirmed there will not be a spire.

Thank you for posting.

[buckett5425]

The "GM Building"...really?

Im excited about seeing the new blue glass curtain wall, that could be really cool...

As for the rest of the design, and name, i think David Bronner has been drinking to much cool aid...

[BlessedMobile]

I'm sorta' afraid to ask what "GM" stands for in the AmSouth remodel. The blue glass look is good; gives it a modern look. Bronner must have lost his color wheel as we will see more mardi gras colors. Let's hope the carpet is not as tacky as that at the Battle House. All this to say..."thanks Mr. Bronner for spending more government worker money on our downtown. If you didn't do it we would likely would have had an empty, dilapidated high-rise for many years to come." Now if he wants to own another landmark please remodel the VanAntwerp.

[Alabadrock]

They first though about naming it the MG Building for "Mardi Gras Building". Instead, in order to be very different, they named it the "GM Building." Creative, huh?

[Port_of_Bama]

So the name of the building is Gra Mradi ? huh ?

Anyway the article mentioned about some suprises that will come with the exterior hmmm. I agree with others about the blue glass exterior ,I like that and I assume he has read some of our ideas on this site :D .


Van Antwerp Building : That building should be in better condition than it is now after all it is the first skyscraper in the south east. It also was the tallest in the south east for years. For a building to have a resume like that the city should do more with the building but I assume that the city doesn`t own it.

[WEMO]

I thought the building was for sale for a long time.... Not for sure about now..

[Port_of_Bama]

The Antwerp ? Thats what I though someone needs to convert it into condos or apartments.

[Alxx611]

The owner of the Van Antwerp building is also the guy that owns the Cafe Royal on the first floor, Tony. I'm not sure it anyone is supposed to know this, but he told me he eventually plans to make a hotel out of it one day. I think he could do it right, as he used to be the head of the local hotel owners association

[BlessedMobile]

The owner of the Van Antwerp building is also the guy that owns the Cafe Royal on the first floor, Tony. I'm not sure it anyone is supposed to know this, but he told me he eventually plans to make a hotel out of it one day. I think he could do it right, as he used to be the head of the local hotel owners association

Now that is something I did not know. I knew that the last guy to buy it got it for what seemed a low price. The building has major renovation issues such as low ceilings, poor utilities, rotten windows, etc. He will have to tie himself to a hotel developer to make that work but I hope he does just that. I was hoping it would be condos or even apartments as I want more bodies downtown to support retailing. The building has such potential. I was sitting in the window of Serda's tonight wondering when someone would make VanAntwerp another downtown showpiece. Next time y'all are in the area look at the view someone would get from the corner windows of the VanAntwerp...RSA, Battle House, and waterfront all rolled into one view.

[WEMO]

I noticed that a while back, such a beautiful view...

[Alxx611]

I wonder if this boarded up floor has to do with the renovations:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00004.jpg


other cell phone pics

from the top of the battle house:

http://http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00005.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00006.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00005.jpg

From the top of the Cathedral, shhh don't tell anyone about this:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00015.jpg
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00016.jpg

http://http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00015.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00012.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00014.jpg

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b375/Alxx611/DSC00001.jpg

[BlessedMobile]

Alxx....nice shooting. We won't ask how you got on top of any of the buildings but we do say "thanks for doing the deed and taking the great photos". Keep posting anything you shoot downtown. How about following the Candlewood Suites with photos?

[Bayside]

So the name of the building is Gra Mradi ? huh ?

Anyway the article mentioned about some suprises that will come with the exterior hmmm. I agree with others about the blue glass exterior ,I like that and I assume he has read some of our ideas on this site :D .



Yes - picture the side facing west. Now imagine a giant moonpie rising to the top on New Year's Eve. Ha ha.:banana:

[SouthSky]

Thanks for the pics, Alxx!

Here's a smallish pano from the P-R today about the Fantasy's arrival:
http://media.al.com/live/photo/fantasy-arrives-1jpg-9b5a82c92ab33a13.jpg
(Press-Register/Bill Starling)

[WEMO]

vERY nICE

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

Thanks for the pics, Alxx!

Here's a smallish pano from the P-R today about the Fantasy's arrival:
http://media.al.com/live/photo/fantasy-arrives-1jpg-9b5a82c92ab33a13.jpg
(Press-Register/Bill Starling)

Am I crazy, or does the RSA Tower almost appear to be leaning in this pic?

[jmbreland]

That is so exciting about the AmSouth Building's finally getting a facelift! I've waited and hoped for this for so long and it's FINALLY happening! The blue glass sounds really cool and the Mardi Gras theme had been exactly what I imagined should be used on this skyscraper. Now, the "GM" name, I don't know. That really seems ridiculous. But, if you'd look at the architect firm's name, the first two surnames that makes up the firm's name are a "G" and a "M". Still, "GM" could be easily mistaken for General Motors. So, I think we should not go with that name. "MG" is better. I think Mobile leaders and citizens should dispute the seemingly nonsensical naming. Even "Gras Mardi" is incorrect because in French, the adjective comes after the noun and so "Mardi Gras", where "mardi" is Tuesday and "gras" is fat, is the correct order.

Nouveau, look at the horizon delineated by the water. It's not perfectly level with the bottom of the picture so the whole picture is off-level, making the RSA Tower appear as if it's leaning. That illusion is accentuated by the building's height and aloofness from the rest of the buildings in the skyline.

[jmbreland]

Alxx611, in the 7th picture, there's apparently some construction going on at USA. What are they building there? I attended USA for five years, so I have a connection to that place.

[Alxx611]

Alxx611, in the 7th picture, there's apparently some construction going on at USA. What are they building there? I attended USA for five years, so I have a connection to that place.

In that seventh photo you are refering to, on the last page, that is the new recreational center, from the Intersection of Old Shell Rd, and Stadium Dr., right by Stanky Field.

There is a lot of construction going on all over campus that i plan to post soon. This includes:

Bell Tower and Alumni Plaza
new Engineering Building (Shelby Hall)
Rec. Center
New Dining Hall ( LEED certified building, quite large in size too)
Football Training Facility
Allied Health Building (recently opened)


I'll also take some photographs of the Candlewood Suites downtown soon, right now though I'm pretty sure its still foundation work.

There are also a few new renovations around the area that I'd like to photograph.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

OK, thanks. I knew it wasn't actually leaning- but I notice the waterline now.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

Public Hearing set for December 1st

The legality of the Downtown Mobile Business Improvement District (BID) was upheld by the state supreme court recently and the plaintiffs have been denied a rehearing.

A public hearing to determine whether the District should be continued for another five-year period will be held December 1st at 10:30 a.m. in the auditorium of Government Plaza. After a six month long planning process a new five-year plan to guide the District through 2015 was developed and sent out to all property owners. The plan is available on our website or in our office for review. We encourage all those who support the renewal of the Business Improvement District to attend the public hearing on the first.

____

This year the North Pole Stroll has been added to the many wonderful holiday events you've come to expect in Downtown Mobile. The event is set for December 4th from 5:00 - 8:00 and comes two weeks after the lighting of the Christmas Tree in Bienville Square, followed by the December ArtWalk on December 11th and the Christmas and Holiday Parade on the 19th. Downtown will definitely be the place to be for free, family focused holiday celebrations.

The North Pole Stroll was conceived by businesses along Royal Street and the inaugural year's activities will be centered on Royal and Dauphin streets. Highlights include:

Children's Activities in the Exploreum and Museum of Mobile

Unveiling of 20 decorated balconies at the Hampton Inn
Carolers and other live entertainment
Special Fed Ex box for "Letters to Santa"
Storytime in the lobby of the Battle House Hotel
Holiday vendors
A "Snow Tunnel" for little ones to explore

___

Pillars of the Community- Mobile's Greek Revival Movement
Museum of Mobile
Now through January 10
The love affair of the city and its architecture is a story retold in The Museum of Mobile's newest temporary exhibit. As a companion piece to the new book by John Sledge, the exhibit explores the people who in the 1820's changes the region physically from a fortifies colonial town to a more modern American city. "Pillars of the Community" will examine the extraordinary early nineteenth century intersection of personality, economics, architecture and technology that made Mobile's columned masterpieces possible.
Also, don't miss the Springdale Barnes & Noble Bookfair from December 11 - 13. During this weekend, a portion of all sales in the store will be donated to the Barton Academy Preservation Fund. John Sledge will be on hand to sign The Pillared City Dec. 12 from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

__

Vision of the Universe: Four Centuries of Discovery Space Exhibit
Ben May Main Library
Now through November 20
It is an exibit all about astronomy

____

Gulf Coast Comedy Jam
Mobile Civic Center
Friday, November 13
at 8 p.m.
Presented by Variety Entertainment. Featuring Nephew Tommy, Jay Anthony Brown, Earthquake and JJ. Tickets are on sale now! Ages 18 +

__

Art Soup
Christ Church Cathedral
Friday, November 13 from 6 to 9 p.m.
Choose (and keep) an artist-made bowl; taste a variety of soups, bid in a silent art auction,; enjoy music by Bay Runners. Benefits 15 Place (Mobile's multi-service center for the homeless) Tickets are $40. Reservations recommended.

__

Murder on the Casting Couch
Mobile Mystery Dinners
Saturday, November 14 at 7 p.m.
$57.00 per person includes an unlimited wine bar starting at 6:45 p.m., a tour of the museum, a meal catered by the Pillars Restaurant and two hours of hilarity by the Mobile Mystery Dinner Players. Reservations are required.

__

Beethoven & Blue Jeans
Saenger Theatre
November 14 and 15
Don't forget your blue jeans for this annual Mobile Symphony favorite, sure to be a sellout! Enjoy the mischievous melodies of Rossini's Thieving Magpie Overture, and hear two of you Beethoven favorites- the sublime Piano Concerto No. 3 with piano phenomenon (and master skateboarder) Alpin Hong , and Beethoven's most propulsive and rhythmic work, Symphony No. 7. Bring canned goods to benefit the Bay Area Food Bank.

_____

Jamey Johnson
Saenger Theatre
Thursday, November 19 at 8 p.m.
With special guest Randy Houser. Tickets are on sale now!
___

Also,
Chrysanthemums at Bellingrath Garden
Space 301
Cathedral Square Gallery
Mobile Arts Council
Market on the Square
Ben May Main Library
Mobile International Festival (Civic Center, 11/21)
Lighting of the Trees (Friday the 20th, 5-8, Bienville Square)

[WEMO]

Construction contracts will likely be bid out in January or February, said Tony Zodrow, the museum's executive director. Construction will take 20 to 22 months, with the museum slated to open in late 2011, Zodrow said.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
By DAN MURTAUGH
Staff Reporter
GulfQuest has a green light.

The Mobile City Council voted 6-1 Tuesday to take out more than $80 million in bonds to refinance old debt and help pay for the construction of GulfQuest, an interactive maritime museum to be built on the downtown waterfront.

Councilman John Williams voted against the bond issue after raising concerns about the city's indebtedness.

Williams proposed an amendment to the bond issue that would have required the city to use any savings from the refinancing to pay off debt ahead of schedule. But the amendment failed, with only Williams and Connie Hudson supporting it.

Other council members said they wanted as much flexibility as possible, given that the city is operating on a

leaner-than-usual budget this fiscal year.

The bond issue would add $23 million to the city's debt in order to build the maritime museum, buy land for additional parking for the museum and construct a fire station and police mini-precinct.

The museum will include interactive exhibits, such as remote-controlled tugboats that can guide ships into port and a simulator that will allow visitors to navigate vessels through a virtual Gulf of Mexico and Mobile Bay.

Construction contracts will likely be bid out in January or February, said Tony Zodrow, the museum's executive director. Construction will take 20 to 22 months, with the museum slated to open in late 2011, Zodrow said.

The city is partnering with a nonprofit museum foundation to build GulfQuest. That foundation is paying $15 million to

$17 million for the exhibits and programs and will pay the estimated $3.8 million in annual operating costs. The city is on the hook for $36 million in construction costs.

The city has received about $18.7 million from the federal government for the museum, which also will be used as a ferry and bus terminal. City officials spent more than

$8 million of that on bulkheads and site preparation along the waterfront.




The remaining $10 million will be combined with bond money to pay for the construction. Mobile Mayor Sam Jones has said the city could be forced to repay the federal government if the museum is never built.

Jones has said he will schedule payments on the new loans so that the city doesn't have to increase its planned debt payments for the next 10 years. Scheduled pay ments would increase after that, but those payments would remain below what the city is paying now.

Jones called it

"revenue-neutral" borrowing, meaning that if the city's revenue stays flat, it will still be able to afford to pay its debt.

Total revenue for the city dropped from

$245.6 million in the 2008 fiscal year to $235 million in fiscal 2009 — which ended Sept. 30 — despite an annexation in the fall of 2008 that brought a retail-rich area near Theodore into the city limits.

The bond proposal also calls for the city to be reimbursed for part of its interest payments on the debt through two federal stimulus programs passed earlier this year.

The fire station and police mini-precinct in Theodore would be paid for in part by a $1.9 million federal stimulus grant and in part by $500,000 included in the bond issue.

The city promised the station to residents during last year's annexation campaign.

[nouveau_Mauvilla]

It's about time someone gave us some dates; I just hope it sticks to schedule. Not sure why a new firestation and police "mini-precinct" in Theodore are lumped in with this, though.

[Alabadrock]

It's about time someone gave us some dates; I just hope it sticks to schedule. Not sure why a new firestation and police "mini-precinct" in Theodore are lumped in with this, though.

It's cheaper to lump them together, and much less of a hassle. Basically you get to make one individual payment instead of like two or three.