Your Mid-Week Fairhope Update

Good evening Fairhope, Welcome to your go-to newsletter for all things local! Whether it’s art shows, live music, community gatherings, or the latest Fairhope happenings, we’ve got you covered. Our small town is bursting with creativity and connection, and this is your insider’s guide to staying in the loop. Check out upcoming events, discover hidden gems, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of our coastal town. Got an event or story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Stay inspired, stay connected, and let’s make the most of everything Fairhope has to offer.

Your Mid-Week Funny: Why was Cinderella so bad at soccer? She kept running away from the ball!

Now grab your hot tea or coffee and dive the FN Newsletter. And if you decide to 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. From Anne Dorman and John Oldshue.

Anne Dorman & John Oldshue

Today’s Fairhope Now Newsletter

  1. Magnolia Beach Project

  2. Norman J. Walter Sr Award

  3. Cafe Viola has Closed

  4. Shuck Cancer - Get tickets now!

  5. Fairhope Adoptable Pets: Meet Paisley

  6. Quick News & Events from Around Fairhope

Restoration & Stabilization Project

Fairhope Times reports that during the Magnolia Beach erosion control meeting, project engineers from GMC described the problems there and presented their solutions. If all goes well and Army Corps. of Engineers permits can be obtained in a timely manner it could be completed by the end of the year, according to city representatives present.

The Beach: This reach of bay shoreline known as Magnolia Beach Park is comprised of the sandy beach south of the public boat ramp (Pier Avenue) extending past Trinity Presbyterian Church to the American Legion property beach.

The Problem: Erosion of this City’s beach has been an ongoing concern for some time. In the past 15-20 years, beach erosion has threatened some of the City’s infrastructure at the north end of Magnolia Beach Park and the City has been doing regular and costly beach nourishments in lieu of building a bulkhead to maintain that beach. Beach nourishment is the direct placement of beach quality sand on the beach to widen the beach.

The City has restored the sandy beach at the north end of Magnolia Beach Park with regular nourishment (some heavy) projects on dozen occasions since 2004. Exported, washed beach sand average cost per renourishments is more than $20,000.00 not including equipment and labor to place and grade sand.

The Solution: Construction of a shoreline stabilization project at the north end of Magnolia Beach Park that includes an offshore segmented breakwater system in conjunction with a major beach nourishment project. The purpose is to more permanently stabilize this highly visible sandy beach shoreline while providing better infrastructure protection – see attached rendering of the proposed engineering of Magnolia Beach. Watch the full Fox 10 video here.

Fairhope Arts Alley Honored

The City of Fairhope is delighted to announce that the "Arts Alley" project has been honored with the Norman J Walton Sr. Regional Award from the South Alabama Regional Planning Commission. This prestigious award celebrates exceptional regional projects that excel in five key areas: problem solving, intergovernmental cooperation, innovation, enhancement to regional quality of life, and cost-effectiveness.

The project originated from a downtown walkability study conducted in 2012, which identified the potential to revitalize neglected alleys and underused public parking areas. By addressing issues related to accessibility, walkability, and public transit, "Arts Alley" has rejuvenated once underutilized part of the city. The enhancement of these public spaces not only boosts the aesthetic appeal of Fairhope but also strengthens community bonds and fosters connectivity among residents and visitors… Learn more here

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.

Get Your Ticket Now! Shuck Cancer Event

On Thursday, April 3rd, 2025, we will gather to eat, drink, and SHUCK CANCER! Get ready for a festival of food and drink and (of course) oysters as we dance the night away at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope. Join us for the inaugural American Cancer Society event, Shuck Cancer of South Alabama.

Just three weeks until our inaugural Shuck Cancer event, and we couldn’t be more excited! Join us as we unite to make a difference in the fight against cancer. Grab your ticket today for just $75! https://shuckcancersouthal.acsgala.org/tickets-donations/ See you April 3rd!

Fairhope Adoptable Pets: Meet Paisley

Introducing the one and only Paisley-a 5-month-old tortoiseshell kitten with an enchanting mix of fiery orange, black, and cream fur and eyes that will steal your heart! Her green eyes shine like precious gems, and she's got a purr that will melt all your stress away. But don't let her sweet look fool you-Paisley is a playful little whirlwind full of curiosity and energy!

This little lady is as vibrant as her beautiful coat! Whether she's chasing toys like a mini ninja, darting around like the ultimate hide-and-seek champion, or giving you a sassy, playful look with those mesmerizing green eyes, Paisley is always on the move and ready for adventure.

And when she's not plotting her next move (which is usually causing a bit of mischief), you can find Paisley enjoying her downtime with cuddles and snuggles. She's got the perfect balance of energy and affection, making her the ideal companion for anyone looking for a fun-loving kitten who knows how to unwind after a play session.

Paisley is friendly, fun, and ready to become the queen of your household! She loves making new friends and can't wait to find her forever family who will cherish her playful personality and give her all the cuddles she deserves.

Do you think you're the perfect match for this vibrant tortie beauty? Complete the adoption application today, and our adoption team will schedule a 15-minute meet-and-greet so you can experience Paisley's charm in person.

Come meet this sweet, sassy, and totally adorable kitten today-and let Paisley add a little extra sparkle to your life!

Adopt Paisley today and watch your world get a whole lot more colorful!

Don't miss out-Click https://ow.ly/r15Y50VeJtE to apply and let a new pet light up your world! Learn more about adoptable pets by clicking through to The Haven.

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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