Orange Beach, Ala. - The Buzzz is like a bee buzzing around Orange Beach mentioning what’s going on here and there.  Over 1000 guests visited Sea, Sand & Stars last week. The “Art for Heart” Wrap up party at Florabama Yacht Club announced that this group raised over $100,000 for the American Heart Association of South Alabama.  Thanks to Chairs, Jennifer and John Blanchard, Hosts, Mike and Melanie Martin and ALL of the volunteers and patrons for another successful event.  Plans for 2014 are underway! 

Two new stores opened at San Roc Cay with “Jane Loves Shoes”, owner Jo Hood and “JG Interiors” owner John Gordon Grant.  Stop and Shop today!  Other new businesses include helicopter rides from The Wharf and air service from Jack Edwards Airport to Birmingham, Memphis, and New Orleans.  Brick and Spoon Restaurant on Canal Road says it will be open before July 4.  Keep a watch on their kiosk! 

Mr. Hubert Low who moved from Orange Beach to Australia in 1967 because he felt “the island was too crowded” was celebrated for his contribution to our history this week.  His son Wally came “home” to place Mr. Low’s remains.  Thanks to Greg Leatherbury and Margaret Long for making this time special for the Low Family and our community. 

The Margaret Biggs exhibit, “Visions: through Painting and Poetry” opened with a grand reception this week at the Coastal Art Center.  The center opens at 10:00 am Monday – Saturday with no admission charge for exploring The Gallery with many local artists, The Hot Shop with glassblowing demonstrations and The Clay Studio with pottery demonstrations.  Kudos to the CAC’s support organization, Friend’s of the Arts, for their awesome reception and local jazz player, Chris Fillingame.  Do not miss the next “Glass Blow out!”, June 28 from 5-8 pm.   

“Summer at the Lighthouse” block parties at Orange Beach United Methodist start this week with “Kingdom Rock!” on Thursday June 27, 5:30-8:00 pm including hot dogs and hamburgers.  Sailing Lessons at Wind & Water Learning Center are no longer just for children!  That’s right, give Caroline a call and sign up today! 

NOTE to self:  “Do not take fido to the islands.” Orange Beach and the State of Alabama will be enforcing their no animals on Robinson and Bird Islands.  

August calendar is filling up fast with the following:  August 15-18, SEC Beach Fest, August 16 – 25, Alabama Restaurant Week, August 23, “Heaven is For Real” book signing at CAC and event at The Orange Beach Event Center,  and Sunday, August 25, 4:00-7:00, “Back To School Bash” at OBUMC.