Orange Beach High School Star Gains Attention at University of Alabama

OBA Staff • June 7, 2025

Alabama staff impressed by freshman's skill and drive

Orange Beach High School Basketball Star Lee Steele with Alabama Coaches

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach High School freshman Lee Steele is starting to make waves in the basketball world. The 6-foot-6 player had a standout day during a visit to The University of Alabama. His skills and work ethic caught the attention of head coach Nate Oats and his coaching staff. Observers say Steele is playing his best basketball yet.

The visit happened on June 5, 2025, when Steele was invited to take part in activities at the university. His performance made a strong impression. According to coaches, Steele has a bright future and may just be getting started.

Coaches described Steele as a gym rat who works hard and is easy to coach. He is also known for being a good teammate. His dedication and love for the game are helping him grow quickly as a player.

One coach said Steele is only beginning to reach his full potential. His progress so far shows he could be a top player in the coming years. Supporters from Orange Beach and beyond are cheering him on.

Steele’s performance and attitude have earned him respect on and off the court. With continued hard work, many believe he has what it takes to play at the next level.

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Second Straight Month of Falling Home Prices in Baldwin

By OBA Staff • June 8, 2025

Robertsdale, Ala. — (OBA) — Baldwin County home prices dropped for the second month in a row, according to the latest data from Baldwin REALTORS®. Both residential and resort markets saw lower average prices compared to last year. Homes also stayed on the market longer. Fewer properties were sold in some areas.

Free Mental Wellness Platform Now Available for All Alabamians

By OBA Staff • June 8, 2025

A new online tool is now available to help Alabamians improve their mental wellness. CredibleMind, a free digital platform, offers personalized self-care resources to anyone in the state. It aims to close the gap between those seeking help and the shortage of mental health professionals. The program is completely anonymous, easy to use, and available right away.

LuLu Gribbin with Governor Ivey during the signing of LuLu's Law

Local Orange Beach Doctor Heads Back to the Beach Where Lulu Gribbin was Attacked

By Jessica A. Taylor • June 7, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — On the eve of the one-year anniversary of Lulu Gribbin's nearly fatal shark attack, I could hear children laughing and playing with their family pets in the background, negotiating who gets to toss the ball next. “Are you done with your noodles” cried out the father, Dr. Ryan Forbess of Orange Beach, Alabama. Apologizing for the noise and distractions, he explained, “We are packing up to head out in the morning—back to the same place, actually.”

Gulf State Park to Host Three-Day Shark Fest Event

By OBA Staff • June 7, 2025

Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores will once again host Shark Fest, a popular summer event focused on marine life. The event takes place at Gulf State Park’s Saltwater Pier and offers hands-on activities for all ages. Guests will learn about Gulf Coast sharks through interactive exhibits, expert presentations, and up-close encounters. This year’s event promises more excitement, learning, and family-friendly fun.

Expect Excellence Brings Rock Hits to the Stage

By OBA Staff • June 7, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A high-energy rock show is returning to Orange Beach this summer. The Expect Excellence Music Department will perform “Dream On – A Tribute to Classic Rock” for three nights, June 26 through 28, at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center.

CoastAL Orange Beach Becomes Diamond Sponsor for Orange Beach City Schools

By OBA Staff • June 6, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — CoastAL Orange Beach has stepped up to support education. The local business was named a Diamond Sponsor for Orange Beach City Schools. This is the highest level of sponsorship available. It means students will benefit across academics, arts, and athletics.

Baldwin County Teens Join City of Foley as Summer Interns

By Guy Busby • June 6, 2025

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — High school students from across Baldwin County are getting a chance to learn how local government works. They will do this through a new internship program with the city of Foley. This is the first time Foley has offered this opportunity. The city introduced the first group of interns at the City Council meeting on Monday, June 2.

Gulf Shores Post Office Hosts Passport Fair June 7

By OBA Staff • June 6, 2025

Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Summer is a great time to travel and see the world. Unfortunately, many people do not have a passport when the opportunity arrives for international travel. Some citizens think that the paperwork is too much of a hassle. The USPS actually makes the process easier by holding Passport Fairs within local locations throughout the US. One such place is the Gulf Shores Post Office.

Two Vehicle Wreck Near Foley Claims Orange Beach Woman’s Life

By OBA Staff • June 5, 2025

Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALES) is reporting that an Orange Beach woman died after a two-vehicle crash late Wednesday morning near Foley. The accident happened on South Hickory Street near Baldwin County 20. The ALEA said the crash involved a Chevrolet pickup and a Jeep SUV. Troopers are still investigating the cause of the crash.

Orange Beach Fire Department Achieves Elite Class 1 ISO Rating

By R. Ken Cooper • June 5, 2025

Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — The Orange Beach Fire Department has officially achieved the highest possible Public Protection Classification (PPC) from the Insurance Services Office (ISO), securing an elite Class 1 rating. This prestigious designation, effective September 1, 2025, places Orange Beach among a select group of fire departments nationwide recognized for their exceptional fire protection and emergency response capabilities.