ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — The buzz around Orange Beach is a nice hum as Labor Day approaches. Congratulations to Annette Mitchell, Orange Beach’s newest council person.

Don’t forget that Flipper’s at Bear Point Marina has snow cones that have Eddie Boy’s homemade ice cream in the bottom, just like on the North Shore of Oahu. The Orange Grove at C-Side Shops on Perdido Beach Boulevard has “Paint on the Porch” Monday through Thursday by Gulf Coast Fish Tales. Make your reservations today. 

The Coastal Art Center of Orange Beach is evaluating the flooring in the Gallery therefore the Gallery is closed but The Hot Shop and Clay Studio are open, teaching and selling art. Drop by today and watch glass blowing and clay throwing! Adult Acrylic and photography classes begin in September. Call 981-ARTS for registration information. 

Rumor has it that Wildflowers Boutique is expanding at a new location on Canal. There is more. Wildflowers will also have men’s clothing.  Businesses have an opportunity to grow and expand in Orange Beach. The University of Alabama offers free counseling to new and existing businesses. Sign up at www.asbdc.org. 

Gulf Shores / Orange Beach Tourism is conducting several photo contests, trivia and sweepstakes to enter at www.gulfshores.com. 

The Orange Beach Police took the Ice Bucket Challenge for ALS last Friday dumping several hundred gallons of ice water from a front end loader.  Thanks to the OBPD for a great “Kid’s night out” 2014! 

The 7th Annual Shrimp Festival Restaurant Challenge, presented by Zatarain's, will take place on August 27 and 28, 2014 at The Culinary Institute at Faulkner State Community College. 

Alabama Fishing and Hunting Licenses expire on August 31 and recreational licenses are available beginning August 25.

Habitat for Humanity of Baldwin County’s “Artfully Sweet” fundraiser of decadent desserts at Oak Hollow Farm is September 4. Tickets are available at The Coastal Art Center for $25.  

Orange Beach Fire Department is cooking Boston Butts at Paradise Tiki Bar next to Sportsman Marina at a locals “Beach Party” on Saturday September 13 beginning at 2:00pm with live music. Proceeds will go to Cancer Awareness Charity.   

Under His Wings Ministries for young girls in Baldwin County in crisis is having a Car Show and Art Festival on September 13 at PZK Hall in Robertsdale.   

Save the dates, September 25-27 is Uncorked at The Wharf.

Siren’s 2014 draw-down is September 26.