Ahaha,
Long Live the Flora-Bama! Developers may be licking their chops and circling the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach area like a bunch of vultures hoping to increase the generic, concrete wall of high rises along the beach, sell them and run to ruin yet another scenic and interesting spot in the world, but some remain determined to hang on to a bit of eclectic character.
A quote from and article dated, Sunday, October 17, 2004 in "The Birmingham News" from one of the co-owners of the legendary Flora-Bama Lounge is interviewed.:
"Equally determined to stay put, although in a more sin-loving kind of way, are the owners of the Flora-Bama Lounge.
Ivan knocked down much of the building, although the hurricane's 120 mph winds weren't strong enough to blow the cigarette smoke smell out of the remaining walls.
Joe Gilchrist, a Birmingham-native and Flora-Bama co-owner, said owners are still trying to figure out how much of the original building, if anything, can be salvaged. Gilchrist said not to worry, though. The rebuilt 'Bama, home of the Mullet Toss festival, will never blend in with the sleek condos taking over the beachfront.
'It will not be made of pink stucco with a purple roof,' Gilchrist said. 'Whatever we do, it will be done in just as poor taste as everything we've always done. We will be true to our original concept of trashy modern.'."
Hang in there guys! When you are ready for us to return, we will be back to visit your Hi-Tack mecca to consume some of the best royal reds and oysters on the Alabama shore!
Farron
Posted by farron at October 26, 2004 12:41 PM