Big Memorial Day Needed In Orange Beach

Alabama Economy Beachfront communities need a big Memorial Day to help ease recession

by Pat Peterson

Published: Mon, May 18, 2009 - 4:11 pm CST Last Updated: Mon, May 18, 2009 - 5:12 pm CST

The owner of the Bizarre Bazaar souvenir shop in Orange Beach says he'll have to sell a lot of t-shirts to make up for an unusually slow Spring Break season.

"Tough times," says Louis Delaparra. "We've been waiting for about four or five months for the summer to come here and help us out financially."

Customers are browsing...they're just not buying.

"Well, not as much but yeah, sure, anybody would love a stronger economy, but we're thankful for what we do get."

Memorial Day, the official start of summer, could be a make-it-or-break-it weekend for many businesses in Orange Beach. Many businesses are struggling because of the economy and are trying to find ways to bring in business. Hotels and condos are offering free nights and restaurants are advertising buy one get one free specials. But with gas prices on the rise and families watching their budgets, local officials aren't sure hoe Memorial Day will play out.

"We've learned the crystal ball is almost worthless, but we have faith in the fact the economy is seeing a slight pick-up," says Ken Grimes, Orange Beach City Manager. "Pleasure Island is still the best vacation value available along the Gulf Coast. Even if it's just a day-trip down to our beaches, get out and enjoy that with your family, spend what you can, budget yourself and don't go overboard."

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