News
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Announces New Team Member and Expanded Leadership Role Supporting Foundation and Workforce Priorities
Foley, AL (January 2026) — The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the addition of a new team member and an expanded leadership role within its Chamber and Foundation. These staff updates reflect the Chamber’s continued commitment to strengthening the local economy while advancing programs and partnerships that support local business, education, leadership development, and long-term workforce growth across South Baldwin County. Christy Bledsoe Joins as Programs & Development
Tidewater Security Services to Host Hiring Event at The Wharf Amphitheater
ORANGE BEACH, Ala. — Tidewater Security Services, LLC (TSS), a member of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce, will host a Hiring Event on Saturday, January 17 at The Wharf Amphitheater in Orange Beach, Alabama. The event will be held in two sessions at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. and will take place at Gate 1 by the Box Office, located at 23325 Wharf Lane. Tidewater Security Services is seeking motivated and dependable individuals to join its event staff teams, supporting one of the Gulf Coast’s premier
Website Up and Running: The Movers (AL) Joins the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce
The Movers (AL) is officially online and now serving Baldwin County with professional, transparent moving services. We offer an affordable starting rate of $135 per hour, which includes two experienced movers, a moving truck, fuel, and standard service fees—with no hidden charges. Free, no-obligation estimates are available. To ensure the most accurate quote, customers are encouraged to share their move date, pickup and delivery addresses, and a brief list of items or number of rooms. To schedule a free
Leadership Series Luncheon Highlights Foley’s Growth and Future with Mayor Ralph Hellmich
December 16, 2025 | Foley, AL – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted another impactful Leadership Series luncheon today at the Foley Civic Center, welcoming business leaders, nonprofit partners, and community stakeholders from across South Baldwin. The event featured Mayor Ralph Hellmich of the City of Foley as the guest speaker, who delivered a comprehensive State of the City update outlining Foley’s continued growth, strategic investments, and future priorities. The luncheon was catered by
Business After Hours: December 2025 Recap
Hosted by Tropic Falls at OWA Parks & Resort – Foley, Alabama The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce closed out the year with an unforgettable December Business After Hours, hosted by Tropic Falls at OWA Parks & Resort. With an incredible indoor waterpark backdrop and a festive atmosphere, members enjoyed one of our most unique and memorable networking nights of the year. Attendance was strong, and guests took full advantage of the opportunity to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the close of another
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Leadership Series Welcomed Beth Gendler, President & CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism
FOLEY, AL – November 13, 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted another impactful Leadership Series luncheon at the Foley Civic Center, featuring guest speaker Beth Gendler, President & CEO of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism. Presented by Vulcan Inc., the event brought together Chamber members and community partners for an in-depth look at tourism trends and the economic outlook for Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Gendler shared highlights from her “Facts, Figures & Forecast” presentation, offering
South Baldwin Chamber Celebrates Dedicated Diplomats Completing Their Terms
The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is proud to recognize the dedicated volunteers who have completed their three-year terms in the Chamber’s Diplomat Program—an elite group of leaders who play a vital role in strengthening member engagement, supporting Chamber operations, and fostering a welcoming, connected business community. Proudly presented by Rogue Pest Solutions of the Gulf Coast, the Diplomat Program is made up of standout volunteers who give their time, leadership, and enthusiasm to the
Steps, Smiles & Sunshine: Magnolia Run 2025 Brings Community Together in Magnolia Springs
November 8, 2025 | Magnolia Springs, AL — On a beautiful morning in Magnolia Springs, the streets came alive as nearly 300 runners, walkers, and their four-legged companions gathered for the 2025 Magnolia Run! From the first step off the starting line, the energy was contagious—friends, families, and neighbors cheered each other on as participants navigated the USATF-certified 5K course lined with majestic oak trees, blooming azaleas, and historic homes. Dozens of spirited runners also took part in the
An Elegant Evening Under the Lights: 2025 Chicago Street Supper Club a Resounding Success
Celebrating local flavor, community spirit, and Southern hospitality—A farm-to-table celebration! Foley, Ala. — The 2025 Chicago Street Supper Club Dinner, presented by The Law Offices of Brenton C. McWilliams, was another unforgettable evening of fine dining, wine pairings, and community connection in Downtown Foley. Held Friday, October 17, 2025, along Chicago Street at Heritage Park, guests enjoyed a perfect autumn evening beneath the lights, surrounded by elegant décor, delicious cuisine, and a warm,
SBCC Leadership Series Featured Rick Clark, Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer of the Alabama Port Authority
FOLEY, AL – October 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its October Leadership Series luncheon at the Foley Civic Center, welcoming Rick Clark, Deputy Director & Chief Operating Officer of the Alabama Port Authority, as the featured guest speaker. Presented by Vulcan Inc., the luncheon brought business leaders together for a detailed look into the growth, modernization, and statewide economic influence of the Port of Mobile. Clark shared a compelling overview of the Port Authority’s
Here's to Elberta: Town Toast Celebrates Small-Town Spirit
October 9, 2025 | Elberta, AL — On a warm fall evening in Elberta, community members, business owners, and local leaders came together for the second gathering of the Town Toast event series, hosted at Oakley’s Wine Bar & Bistro. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere of Oakley’s set the perfect tone for an evening of conversation, connection, and celebration among neighbors who share a deep love for South Baldwin’s small-town way of life. Nestled just a few miles inland from the coast, Elberta is a town rich in
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Business After Hours: September 2025 Recap
Hosted by Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center – Summerdale The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce closed out another memorable Business After Hours in September—this time hosted by our valued members at the Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center (BCCAC) in Summerdale. What made this event even more special was the story behind it: originally scheduled for Hunter’s Furniture, a Chamber member since 2019, the business graciously passed along their hosting opportunity to an organization they deeply
Steve Bailey Named 2025 Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year
Foley, AL – September 19, 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce Steve Bailey as the 2025 Walton M. Vines Free Enterprise Person of the Year. Presented by Riviera Utilities, this prestigious award honors individuals who demonstrate the true spirit of American free enterprise. Since 1976, the award has recognized leaders who embody innovation, entrepreneurship, and an unwavering commitment to their community.Steve Bailey accepting the 2025 Walton M. Vines Person of the Year award
SBCC Leadership Series Highlights Gulf Shores International Airport
FOLEY, AL – September 16, 2025 – The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its latest Leadership Series luncheon at the Foley Civic Center, featuring an engaging presentation by Jesse Fosnaugh, A.A.E, ACE, MBA, Airport Director for Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF). The event, presented by Vulcan Inc. and catered by Down South BBQ, drew a strong crowd of business leaders, students, and community members eager to learn about the airport’s progress and regional impact. Mr. Fosnaugh delivered a
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Raising a Glass to Community: Inaugural Town Toast Held in Magnolia Springs
The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the successful launch of our brand-new community series, Town Toast—and what a wonderful beginning it was!See photos & videos here! On a warm Southern evening in Magnolia Springs, neighbors, business owners, and community leaders gathered for the inaugural Town Toast event, hosted at The Occasional Wife Estate Store, one of the Chamber’s newest members. The atmosphere was full of energy and hometown pride as attendees mingled, made new
ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship Shares Updates at South Baldwin Chamber Leadership Series
As part of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce’s ongoing Leadership Series, members and guests recently welcomed Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR) Commissioner Chris Blankenship for an engaging and informative luncheon presentation. Commissioner Blankenship highlighted the vital connection between Alabama’s environmental health and its economic future. Emphasizing the theme that economic prosperity cannot exist without environmental prosperity, he outlined how the state
Patching the Cracks: How Smart Businesses Uncover and Reinforce Their Weakest Links
When a business starts to wobble, the cause isn’t usually some dramatic implosion. More often, the issue lies in overlooked details, everyday inefficiencies, and subtle cracks that widen over time. Recognizing and strengthening operational and financial vulnerabilities isn’t just a maintenance task—it’s a survival skill. Rather than waiting for the warning signs to scream, businesses that stay proactive put systems in place that help them listen while the whispers are still faint. The Pain of Familiar
How Small Business Packaging Becomes Part of the Story
The thrill of opening something thoughtfully packed never really wears off. Maybe it’s the crackle of tissue paper or the way a label peels back cleanly, like someone meant for it to be savored. For small business owners, this moment is more than just logistics. It’s a quiet opportunity to speak directly to a customer, to reinforce the heart behind the brand without saying a word. When you get it right, packaging stops being just a shell—it becomes part of the experience. Let Texture Do the
Rebuilding Your Small Business: Fresh Strategies for a New Chapter
Running a small business is a little like sailing a boat—you adjust to the wind, weather unexpected storms, and sometimes, after a particularly rough patch, you find yourself needing to rebuild. Maybe you took a hit from an economic downturn, lost a key client, or had to pivot your model entirely. Whatever the reason, starting fresh isn’t just about survival; it’s about coming back stronger. So let’s talk about how to do that in a way that doesn’t just patch the holes but actually strengthens the entire
Leadership Series Luncheon Spotlights AI’s Impact on Alabama’s Economy
The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce’s recent Leadership Series Luncheon featured an insightful presentation by Kai Gray, Executive Director of Lower Alabama AI, on the economic impact and opportunities of artificial intelligence (AI) in Alabama. Gray emphasized how AI is reshaping industries, driving efficiency, and creating new workforce demands.See Event Photos Here: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjC64GU Alabama currently ranks in the lower third of U.S. states for AI readiness, with a composite score of
Leadership Series Luncheon Highlights Baldwin Health Expansion and Alzheimer’s Advancements
At the February South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Leadership Series Luncheon presented by Vulcan, Inc., attendees received an impactful update from Baldwin Health on both facility expansion and major medical advancements. Baldwin Health CEO Margaret Roley shared the latest on the hospital’s multi-phase expansion project. The new patient tower includes a spacious and welcoming front lobby, operating rooms, endoscopy suites, postoperative care areas, and a dedicated Women’s and Children’s Unit. Additional
The Small Business Playbook for Digital Transformation
Let’s get real—digital transformation isn’t just a trendy phrase that big corporations throw around in shareholder meetings. If you’re running a small business, you already know that staying competitive means being nimble, adaptive, and, frankly, a little scrappy. But going digital doesn’t have to mean throwing money at shiny new tech or reinventing your entire operation overnight. It’s about smart, intentional shifts that make your business run smoother, keep customers engaged, and ultimately boost your
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce Partners with Excelerate America to Offer Exclusive Member Discounts
The South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce a strategic partnership with Excelerate America to provide our members with exclusive discounts on office supplies, FedEx shipping services, and Dell products. This collaboration is designed to support our local businesses by reducing operational costs and enhancing access to essential services. Office Supplies Discounts Members can enjoy savings of up to 55% on over 400 items, including office supplies, furniture, cleaning, and breakroom
Renovated 1925 Foley building becomes chamber office
May 24th, 2023 | City of Foley News FOLEY – A 97-year-old building that survived proposals to tear it down is now the office of the South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce after being donated to the organization by the city of Foley. The chamber held an open house Monday, May 22 to display the renovations made to the 5,600 square-foot building. The two-story Mission Revival style structure was built on North Alston Street in 1925. It was the Foley Masonic Lodge for about 50 years. In 2002, the city of Foley
