Author: Karen Harrell

An important contribution to history and health was made by a young physician named John Gorrie who moved to Apalachicola, Fla., in the early 1800s. This was the area’s heyday when it was a prominent port of trade, commerce, and shipping in Florida. Gorrie served as postmaster, city treasurer, town councilman, and bank director.

When I arrived on the beach a little more than ten years ago, one of the first events I attended was a fund raiser for the beach school. The Island had just come through Hurricanes Erin and Opal and things were in disarray, but here was a group of people who had come together to share in support for the Beach Elementary School.

Several Snowbirds recently shared that they regard the Gulf Coast as a true second home and they look forward to renewing friendships forged here.
In this issue we feature an expansive Holiday calendar with many interesting events taking place from Civil War era celebrations to parades on land and sea. Also, be sure to set aside time to visit Bellingrath Gardens and Home in Mobile, Ala., to see its delightful holiday lights display.
Be sure to read about the course that spawned a trio of professional golfers from Milton, Fla. , including the colorful personalities of Boo Weekley and Bubba Watson and fellow professional Heath Slocum who learned the game at Tanglewood Golf Course.