Fairhope Working Waterfront Update

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John Oldshue & Anne Dorman
March 24, 2025

Welcome to your Monday update, your go-to guide for local art shows, live music, community events, and all the latest happenings around our charming coastal town. Our community is bursting with creativity and connection, and we’re here to help you uncover hidden gems, celebrate local spirit, and discover new favorite hangouts. Have an event or a funny story to share? We’d love to hear from you—after all, you’re the heartbeat of Fairhope!

Your Monday Mirth: Why did the coffee file a police report? Because it got mugged!

Now, grab your hot tea or coffee and dive into the FN Newsletter. And if you share this with your friends and neighbors at FairhopeNow.com (or click the big blue button below), you’ll be entered to win a $25 gift card to Kind Cafe! Just email us at [email protected] to let us know, and we’ll add your name to the raffle. Cheers to a fantastic start to the week from Anne Dorman and John Oldshue!

– Anne Dorman & John Oldshue

Today’s Fairhope Now Newsletter

  1. Fairhope Working Waterfront Update

  2. Cafe Viola has Closed

  3. Painting Classes Available at ESAC

  4. HOPE Community Meeting Tuesday

  5. Fairhope Adoptable Pets: Meet Tippy

  6. Quick News & Events from Around Fairhope

Fairhope Working Waterfront Update

Working Waterfront Update: North Beach Park Seawall Repairs Start Today Beginning today, March 24, 2025, improvements start at North Beach Park. The northwest area of the fountain/rose garden is closed to cars and parking. New parking is available at the park entrance. • Cars/Parking: 🚗 Closed indefinitely. • Pedestrians: 🚶‍♀️ Pier and restaurant access remain open and encouraged. • Park Access: 🌳 Fully open and accessible. The project involves the demolition of sidewalks and curbs, excavation for substructure repairs, installation of new curbing and concrete paving, grading with a new gravel base, and the addition of new pavers and improved surfaces. Expect temporary gravel paths, but smooth walking will be maintained.

Fairhope Now sponsored by The Dorman Group @ Mobile Bay Realty

Cafe Viola has Closed

It is with a heavy heart that we read the unexpected news that Cafe Viola, a new favorite in Downtown Fairhope, has abruptly shut its doors. It has not been open long but this cozy café has become a gathering place known for its central location, creative entrees, and unique desserts.

While the reasons behind the sudden closure remain unclear, many in the community have expressed concerns about the growing challenges of running a successful restaurant in today’s economic climate. With the rising costs of ingredients, wages, and rent, small businesses like Cafe Viola face immense pressure to stay afloat.

Cafe Viola’s closure is a reminder of how important it is to support our local businesses whenever we can. As we say goodbye to a cherished spot, we also extend our gratitude to the owners and staff who poured their hearts into making it a special place.

Painting Classes Available at ESAC

From Christopher Murray - Classes at ESAC start this week! My Advanced Painting class is full but there’s still plenty of room in Beginning Oils (tues 9:30-12:30) and my teen class Dynamic Painting (thurs 3:30-5). Also a couple of spots left in my first Studio Drawing class (this will be a fun one!) sign up today. Beg oils - https://esartcenter.org/product/beginning_oils/ Studio drawing - https://esartcenter.org/product/drawing101_murray/ Dynamic Painting for Teens - https://esartcenter.org/courses/dynamic-drawing-for-teens-2/

HOPE Community Meeting on Tuesday

Join us on March 25, 2025, for our monthly public meeting, where we will share updates on volunteer opportunities and provide in-depth insights into our ongoing projects.

We’re excited to welcome Rebecca Bryant, founder of WATERSHED, LLC, and Hope Community’s architectural building consultant. She will present our vision for a sustainable, biophilic campus at the Anna T. Jeanes property, along with development plans for the Middle and Young Street property.

Additionally, John Fitzgerald, Board Vice President and Treasurer, will discuss grant opportunities and share insights into our financial strategy as we continue to grow as a nonprofit.

Our prison ministry team will also be collecting essential items for our donation drive at the meeting. If you’d like to contribute, please bring items from the requested donation list below.

We invite you to be part of the conversation and help shape the future of Hope Community!

⏰ Time: 5:30 PM 📍Location: Fairhope United Methodist Church Christian Life Center, 155 S. Section Street, Fairhope.

Prison Donation Drive: -Large or small deodorant sticks -Soap (bars) -Large or small tubes of toothpaste Shampoo & Conditioner – clear and large bottles of VO5 or White Rain -Women’s hygiene items -Large print, soft-cover Bibles -Undergarments in all sizes for men and women

More donation info can be found at https://hopecommunityal.org/prison-outreach/

Fairhope Adoptable Pets: Meet Tippy

Meet Tippy - The Purrfect Bundle of Joy!

Looking for a furry friend who will shower you with love, affection, and endless purrs? Well, say hello to Tippy - your future cuddle buddy! This delightful 8-month-old grey tabby is a domestic shorthair with the softest fur and the sweetest personality. And guess what? She's ready to be your number one source of snuggles and affection!

Tippy is a total people lover - if you've got a hand, she's got a nose, ready to rub up against you and ask for all the pets your heart can handle! Whether it's a gentle scratch behind the ears or a full-on belly rub (if you're lucky), Tippy is a pro at asking for attention, and she's never shy about wanting more. She'll practically purr you into a state of bliss every time she's near you, and let's just say, her purr machine is always on high!

This sweet girl is still young, and her playful spirit will brighten your day. From chasing toys to curling up beside you for a nap, Tippy's joy is contagious-she'll fill your home with warmth and love. She's a master at making you feel special, and you'll never get tired of hearing her sweet purrs.

Ready to make Tippy a part of your life? She's eagerly waiting to meet you! Simply fill out an adoption application, and our team will arrange a 15-minute meet and greet. Trust us - once you meet her, you'll be hooked. Don't miss out on this precious little purring machine.

Tippy's love is just a pet away!

Quick News from around Fairhope

Want to stay up to date on even more local events? Check out Let’s Go! Fairhope .

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