- Fairhope Now
- Posts
- New Post
New Post
John Oldshue & Anne Dorman
May 05, 2025
Good afternoon, Fairhope —
It’s Monday. The coffee’s strong, the to-do list is long, and your weekend stories are still fresh enough to regret.
So grab your caffeine of choice (or a mimosa if you’re still in denial), and let’s dive into what’s happening around town this week.
But first, your Monday laugh: “Monday is proof that we survived the weekend… barely.”
Feeling generous? Forward this newsletter to your book club, your barista, or that neighbor with suspiciously perfect hedges. Then shoot us an email at [email protected] with the words “I shared it!” for a chance to win a $25 Kind Cafe gift card. (Because coffee is always better when it’s free.)
— Anne Dorman & John Oldshue
The Fairhope Pier is CLOSED
Fairhope Police Arrest Suspect in Car Burglary Spree
Boaters Frustrated By Closure of Fish River / Weeks Bay Boat Launch
Fairhope Purchases Weather Warning System
Fairhope Steak Cookoff Set for May
Fairhope Adoptable Pets: Meet Karen
Quick News & Events from Around Fairhope
Fairhope Pier is CLOSED
WKRG reports that the Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park is temporarily closed for two days starting Monday as part of a $6.2 million renovation effort under the city’s Working Waterfront Project. The closure allows crews to complete critical upgrades efficiently, including seawall repairs, new lighting, handrails, and improved shoreline protection. This marks the first full closure during the renovation process, which began last fall, and city officials aim to complete the bulk of the work before the July 4th celebration. The pier and its restaurant, The Blind Tiger, are expected to reopen by Wednesday.
Fairhope Police Arrest Suspect in Car Burglary Spree
The Fairhope Police Department reports that a 17-year-old from Foley was arrested over the weekend in connection with a series of car burglaries and vehicle thefts east of downtown Fairhope. Using surveillance cameras and increased patrols, police located and apprehended the suspect after a brief foot chase. The teen admitted to stealing three vehicles—one of them twice—all of which had been left unlocked with keys inside. Additional charges stem from six vehicle break-ins, five of which involved unlocked cars; one had its window broken. Stolen items included a gun, wallet, and gift cards. The teen faces four counts of first-degree vehicle theft and six counts of breaking and entering, with the investigation still ongoing.
Boaters Frustrated By Closure of Fish River / Weeks Bay Boat Launch
WKRG and The Fairhope Times report that there is lots of frustration with the closure of a popular boat launch near Fairhope. Included below is the full text of the story from The Fairhope Times so you may read the quotes from local and state representatives::
Representative Fidler released a statement this morning about the Fish River 'Bay Watch' boat launch on US 98 at Weeks Bay, closed by the state this morning for upgrades.
Rep. Fidler: "The statement below was in response to our concerns regarding the boat launch under construction during the busiest part of the season, and if there was anything that could be done. It is from Chris Blankenship, Commissioner of the Alabama Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources."
“I agree the work occurring now is not the most opportune time. The plan was to have this work beginning right after the first of the year. There were several issues with design and permitting, including with ALDOT since this is under the bridge in their Right of Way. The bidding and contracting process had delays as well. We have talked with the contractor and he will be on site and working this week. He understands the need to work expeditiously and finish this as soon as possible. The parking and access will be improved for the public after this short inconvenience for the work. This work is what you have asked me repeatedly to do. We are doing it.
I am proud of the positive improvements taking place in Coastal Alabama for boating access.
Though not as convenient, the ramps at Viewpoint, Mullet Point, Nolte Creek and the brand-new launch on County Road 6 are still available for use during this time to access Fish River and Weeks Bay.”
I did ask:
“Is there a way at least one ramp can be open during the construction process? “
Answer: “No, the contractor has liability responsibility on the site during the construction.”
I also asked:
And “was there any way the Viewpoint ramp could have been finished first so that boaters can launch safely without currents affecting the launching process?”
Answer: “No, that project is under design and permitting and is not at the point to bid. The two projects are staggered to have one of the ramps always open during the multimillion dollar improvements in your district.”
Call your local experts at the Dorman Group at Mobile Bay Realty
Fairhope Purchases Weather Warning System
The City of Fairhope has installed Perry Weather alert systems at Founders Park and Manley Road Soccer Complex to enhance safety for parkgoers during sports events. These systems feature sirens, strobe lights, and customizable alerts to warn of lightning, extreme heat, and other weather hazards. With a typical 10-mile lightning detection radius and alerts issued in under 20 seconds, the system helps coaches, players, and visitors respond quickly to changing conditions. An accompanying app and QR code signage will allow users to receive live weather updates directly to their phones.
Fairhope Steak Cookoff Set for May
The Fairhope Rotary Steak Cookoff returns on May 10, 2025, as an adult-only event supporting local community needs, with over $700,000 raised to date. Held downtown from 7 to 10 p.m., general admission tickets are $75 and include steak from over 40 teams, beer, wine, and live music by Avinu. VIP tickets, priced at $150, offer access to a 21+ tent, steak by guest chef Will Sams, Master Joe’s sushi, premium drinks, and exclusive amenities.
Adoptable Pets: Meet Karen
Karen is a 7-week-old black and white kitten with a personality as stunning as her coat. She's sweet, gentle, and affectionate-basically the furry embodiment of a warm hug. Karen loves nothing more than being near her people, and if she had her way, she'd spend every moment snuggled in your arms or perched like royalty on your shoulder. But don't let her calm demeanor fool you-she's got a playful streak and just the right amount of sass. Interrupt her nap, and you will get the tiniest side-eye you've ever seen. She's confident, caring, and already working on becoming the emotional support kitten you never knew you needed.
To learn more about Karen and other adorable adoptable pets at The Haven click here.
Quick News from around Fairhope
Want to stay up to date on even more local events? Check out Let’s Go! Fairhope .
Share this FREE Fairhope Now newsletter to those you think may enjoy it. Or if somebody sent you this e-mail and you want more details than just this, click that big Subscribe button below to subscribe 😍 If you are interested.