Blog Layout

Special Olympics Returns to Orange Beach Sportsplex on May 7th

R. Ken Cooper • Apr 30, 2024

Orange Beach and Gulf Shores Schools Unite for Second Annual Special Olympics

Special Olympics 2023 in Gulf Shores, Photo by Brent Williams

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – One week from today, on May 7, 2024, athletes from Gulf Shores City Schools and Orange Beach City Schools will come together for the second annual Island Schools Special Olympics at the Orange Beach Sportsplex. This event celebrates unity, determination, and the joy of competition for athletes of all abilities.


Superintendent Randy Wilkes expressed gratitude to the teachers, faculty, and staff who worked tirelessly to organize the event. Their dedication helped instill a deep appreciation for the talents of all participants, making the Special Olympics a rewarding and unforgettable experience.


The Island Schools Special Olympics will showcase the talents of student athletes in a supportive and inclusive setting. Beyond athletic feats, the event promotes acceptance and understanding within the community. Sports have the power to transcend barriers and bring people together.


The Opening Ceremony will kick off at 9:30 am on May 7th at the Orange Beach Sportsplex, located at 4385 William Silvers Parkway. The community is invited to attend and support the athletes as they compete and celebrate their achievements.

Share this article w/ Friends...

Week of Fun Things To Do Kicks Off Summer on the Gulf Coast
By Jessica A. Taylor 20 May, 2024
As summer kicks off on the Gulf Coast, various events promise to entertain residents and visitors alike. From the grand opening of a new Irish restaurant in Gulf Shores to an exciting fishing tournament, family-friendly happy hours, beachside s'mores, tropical festivities, and live music performances, there's something for everyone.
Gulf Shores City Hall
By John Mullen 20 May, 2024
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – A master agreement with Volkert for engineering and design services for several city projects is still open, but the company wishes to close some of those task orders related to those projects. The total original contract to Volkert for the work was $3.7 million, but cost overruns have raised it to $5 million.
Foley Alabama Welcome Sign
By John Mullen 20 May, 2024
The Foley City Council will meet in a combined regular/work session on May 20 at 4 p.m. in council chambers at city hall. During the meeting, the council will: Have a public hearing to declare weeds at 607 E. Orange Avenue a public nuisance and order its cleanup. The council will also consider a resolution to allow city workers to enter the property to clean up the nuisance weed.
Celebrating National Rescue Dog Day on the Gulf Coast
By OBA Staff 20 May, 2024
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), about 3.3 million dogs enter shelters every year. These abandoned and abused animals, known as rescue dogs, all need a forever home. Their potential is limitless.
East Canal Road in Orange Beach Gets  A New Look
By R. Ken Cooper 19 May, 2024
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The East Canal Road widening project in Orange Beach has been completed. The project, stretching from Highway 161 to Wilson Boulevard, expanded much of the 1.4-mile section of the road to three lanes. This includes a middle turn lane east of the roundabout. The roundabout was added near the public library, along with a 10-foot multi-use path on the north side of the road​​.
Billfish Classic Boats - Photo by R. Ken Cooper
By R. Ken Cooper 19 May, 2024
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – The 28th annual Orange Beach Billfish Classic, the first big game tournament of the season on the Gulf Coast, rescheduled its fishing days due to unfavorable weather conditions originally planned for this week. Tournament organizers announced last Wednesday that the tournament will now take place starting tomorrow, Monday, May 20th and run through Wednesday, May 22nd. Fishing hours will be continuous beginning at noon on the 20th, with all boats required to clear the Perdido Bridge or Sailboat Bay in Bon Secour by 7 p.m. on the 22nd to qualify for the weigh-in.
Irish Eyes Are Smiling In Gulf Shores: Galway Irish Restaurant Opens
By OBA Staff 19 May, 2024
Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – Gulf Shores has welcomed a new culinary genre to the area! The Galway Irish Public House has opened and locals are already enjoying a pint and some Shepherd's Pie. If you have been looking for classic Irish fare and an excursion from the typical beach cuisine, this new hideaway is the answer. Stepping into Galway's will instantly transport you to that historic island in the north Atlantic. You will immediately feel the comfort from the soothing dark wood, pub style setting and even an English phone booth.
Cotton Bayou Beach Access in Orange Beach - Photo by Ben Taylor Drones
By R. Ken Cooper 18 May, 2024
Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – National Beach Safety Week, sponsored annually by the United States Lifesaving Association (USLA). Its purpose is to raise awareness about the importance of beach and water safety as the beach season begins. This year, the event runs from May 20 to May 27, coinciding with the week leading up to Memorial Day.
Foley Honors Ancient Trees with Century Plaques
By Guy Busby 18 May, 2024
Two more of the area’s most outstanding trees are being recognized by the city of Foley. The Foley Revitalization and Beautification Advisory Board and city officials presented a Century Tree plaque to Margaret Krupinski and her family on Tuesday, May 7. The plaque recognizes a live oak on the property of Krupinski Farm on Charolais Road.
Gulf Shores Police Car
By John Mullen 18 May, 2024
Promoting safe streets is one of the top goals of the patrol division of the Gulf Shores Police Department, Deputy Chief Dan Netemeyer said. “The ultimate goal and our main priority, and it’s a large umbrella, is for us to create a safe environment for the residents and guests to the city,” Netemeyer said. “There are several ways we have to do that, but one of the main ways we do that is to enhance our traffic enforcement to reduce accidents. Nobody wants to go on vacation and their primary memory of their vacation here in Gulf Shores is a vehicle accident where sometimes, unfortunately, people get hurt.”
Show More
Share by: