FOLEY, Alabama — 1. As the Alabama immigration law weaves its way through the courts and the political milieu of activist groups, the effects were already trickling down into the small towns in Baldwin County in September. Spanish-speaking demographics are slowly shifting out and away from Alabama, including the town of Summerdale as many impacted by the law lost their jobs. This in turn had negative reprocussions for businesses and churches that served this segment of the Baldwin community. In early October, Foley Elementary Principal Bill Lawrence held an informational meeting for parents of the large Hispanic student population at the school.

Any sections of the law pertaining to the collection of data of students have been stayed by federal courts.

While the U.S. Department of Justice questions the edicts constitutionality, the political volley between the state and federal governments have stalled proper enforcement of the law, according to local law enforcement. HB 56 is still currently part of an investigation initiated by the U.S. Justice department.

2. The Summerdale Town Council unanimously voted March 17 to terminate Police Chief Dwain Riebeling’s employment with the town, following a request by Mayor David Wilson. The council also voted to dismiss Cpl. Quentin Bettner from employment.

Wilson’s letter to the council listed 14 reasons for the proposed dismissal, including alleged incompetence, insubordination, neglect of duty, the threatening of personnel and refusal to follow orders. Eddie Ingram was appointed as the new police chief June 20, with the council voting unanimously in favor of making him the new head of the police department.

3. Once a year, hot air balloons fill the southern Baldwin County skies and amaze residents and tourists alike. Beginning Friday evening June 17, 47 balloon pilots took center stage as they staked their claim to the air above. Residents were able to witness the balloon-filled skies at the Foley Sportsplex on U.S. 98 early Saturday and Sunday morning, and late afternoon on Friday and Saturday. The southern Alabama weather was kind at times and angry at others to the seventh annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival, with much of the balloon activities being dependent on wind speed and direction. Friday evening June 17, 47 balloon pilots took center stage as they staked their claim to the air above. However, the media flight set to take place earlier that day was canceled due to weather issues. Almost all of the balloons took to the air Saturday morning as storm cells broke up quick enough to allow a window of flight time.