At Gulf Coast Media, we know being informed in a timely manner is vital, whether it's knowing what's happening this weekend or learning about breaking news.

We strive to always evolve and improve our readers' experience of getting the news delivered. We also know we're on our phones throughout the day.

With those thoughts and goals in mind, Gulf Coast Media is launching GCM Text Alerts, a weekly text message that is free to sign up for, thanks to our launch partners, Vallarta Mexican Restaurant and Original Oyster House.

Texts will include breaking news, top stories of the week and local deals and promotions from our launch partners and others.

"We're all inundated with content and choices for our attention constantly," said Kayla Green, GCM executive editor. "We want to make it as easy as possible to stay informed and up to date about what's happening in our communities around Baldwin County. We're also all about local businesses supporting each other, and we are grateful to our launch partners for making GCM Text Alerts free for our readers."

Sign up now at www.GulfCoastMedia.com/Text.