Storage Choice Presents: Unlocking Space

Hidden History-The Verdonshot Frostkiller: Foley’s Forgotten Battle Against the Cold

Local History

A Storage Choice Hidden History Series — Foley, Alabama If you’ve lived around Baldwin County long enough, you know we worry more about hurricanes and humidity than anything resembling “cold weather.” But back in the early- and mid-1900s, Foley farmers feared something even more destructive than a storm. Frost. A single freeze could wipe out an entire season’s worth of citrus, potatoes, corn, and delicate crops. And Foley—rich farming land long before it became a shopping and tourism hub—went to wild lengths to protect its harvests. One of those lengths? A metal contraption straight out of a 1950s sci-fi movie: The Verdonshot Frostkiller. What on Earth Was the Verdonshot Frostkiller? Picture this: a giant propane-powered torch on stilts, standing alone in a field at 3 a.m., blasting a column of superheated air into the freezing night. That’s the Frostkiller. Designed in the 1940s–50s, it was part of a wave of experimental frost-protection machines tested in rural agricultural towns across the South—including right here in Foley. Farmers tried everything to keep warm air over their crops: Smudge pots Field fires Heaters Fans Wind machines And yes… towering metal “Frostkillers” that looked like crop-scorching UFOs The Verdonshot Frostkiller worked like this: 1. The burner chamber heated air to extreme temps It gulped fuel and produced intense heat inside the cone-shaped chamber. 2. The heat was pushed upward A tall metal tube funneled heat into the air. 3. A large circular “umbrella” spread warm air outward This dome-like disc at the top distributed warm air over a radius of crops. 4. The goal was simple: Keep frost off the leaves long enough to save the entire harvest. It didn’t always work—but when it did, a farmer could save thousands of dollars worth of produce in a single night. Why Foley Needed Frostkillers Before Tanger Outlets, OWA, and the sports tourism complex, Foley’s lifeblood was agriculture. Baldwin County supplied: Citrus Potatoes Corn Peanuts Cotton And vegetables shipped by train all over the Southeast A bad freeze could devastate the economy. The winter of 1940, 1947, and 1951 brought major cold snaps that shocked the region—and local farmers scrambled for any technology ...

Storage Choice
December 1st, 2025

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Making Room for Holiday Guests: How Self Storage Keeps the Season Merry and Bright

Storage Tips

The holidays are here again — twinkling lights, family gatherings, and the unmistakable scent of cinnamon-scented candles. But along with all that cheer often comes one little problem… where’s everyone going to sleep? If your guest room has quietly transformed into your “seasonal storage closet” (we see you), you’re not alone. Whether it’s extra furniture, summer toys, or stacks of boxes you’ve been meaning to go through, clutter tends to creep in during the year, just in time for your in-laws to announce they’re staying for a week. Here’s how a self storage unit can help you reclaim your space and sanity before the first car pulls into the driveway. 1. Turn the Guest Room Back into a Guest Room Before you break out the holiday bedding, move those storage bins and off-season clothes into a nearby Storage Choice unit. You’ll have a comfortable, clutter-free space ready for guests without feeling like you just shoved everything into the closet. 2. Protect Holiday Décor and Seasonal Items When the tree and garlands come down, don’t cram them into the garage. A climate-controlled unit keeps ornaments, wreaths, and family keepsakes safe until next year — no warped boxes or broken bulbs. 3. Make Room for the Big Gatherings Hosting the family dinner this year? Free up space for extra tables and chairs by temporarily moving out bulky items like workout gear or patio furniture. After all, Aunt Linda doesn’t need to dine next to your treadmill. 4. A Stress-Free Space Solution With convenient locations across the Gulf Coast, easy online rentals, and drive-up access, Storage Choice makes it simple to clear out what you don’t need right now — and bring it back when you do. You’ll spend less time tripping over boxes and more time enjoying the season with friends and family. Wrap It Up (Literally) This holiday season, give yourself the gift of space. Whether it’s for your guests, your decorations, or your peace of mind, Storage Choice has you covered. Find a location near you and make your ...

Storage Choice
November 11th, 2025

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Considering a Move? Discover Why Baldwin County, Alabama, Is Booming

Travel And Relocation

Small-town charm, coastal living, and plenty of storage for your next big move. If you’ve ever dreamed of living where the pace is easy, the beaches are beautiful, and neighbors still wave when they pass — Baldwin County, Alabama might just be calling your name. Stretching along the stunning Gulf Coast, Baldwin County is one of the fastest-growing areas in the South, attracting everyone from young families and entrepreneurs to retirees looking for a slower, sunnier lifestyle. Life in Baldwin County: Sunshine, Sand, and Southern Hospitality Baldwin County offers that rare blend of coastal fun and community comfort. Whether you’re watching the sunset over Gulf Shores, playing a round of golf in Foley, or spending your weekend strolling the boutiques of Fairhope, you’ll quickly realize — life here feels like vacation with roots. It’s the kind of place where kids ride bikes on quiet streets, seafood boils are a way of life, and Friday nights might mean live music at the marina instead of city traffic. With year-round outdoor activities, you can spend one day kayaking the back bays and the next hitting a championship golf course — or just relaxing with your toes in the sand at Orange Beach. A Growing Economy with a Laid-Back Feel Baldwin County’s economy is thriving — fueled by tourism, aerospace, healthcare, and construction. Cities like Foley are leading the way in development and job growth, ranking among the fastest-growing communities in the nation. But despite the growth, Baldwin County hasn’t lost its character. It’s still a place where people take pride in their community, value hard work, and welcome newcomers like family. Add in a lower cost of living than many parts of Alabama and the nation, and it’s easy to see why people are trading in their commutes for coastlines. Community Vibes and Coastal Character From the artistic charm of Fairhope, to the suburban comfort of Daphne and Spanish Fort, to the vacation lifestyle of Gulf Shores — Baldwin County has something for everyone. Families love the excellent ...

Storage Choice
October 8th, 2025

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Fall Declutter Checklist: Make Room Before the Holidays

Storage Tips

While much of the country is unpacking sweaters and raking leaves, fall on the Gulf Coast looks a little different. The weather may still feel like summer, but there’s still a shift in the air—cooler mornings, earlier sunsets, and the sense that holiday season is right around the corner. That makes fall the perfect time to declutter, organize, and get ahead before the holiday chaos hits. Whether you're hosting family, prepping for cooler days, or just need a little more space, here are a few simple ways to reset your home this season—with a little help from Storage Choice. 1. Swap Out Summer Gear You’re Done With On the Gulf Coast, summer lasts well into October—but eventually, even the die-hard beach days come to a close. That’s your cue to clear out: Beach chairs and umbrellas Coolers and pool toys Water sports gear like paddleboards or kayaks Swimsuits, flip-flops, and beach towels Stash it all in a climate-controlled storage unit to keep the humidity from turning your gear musty or mildewed. 2. Make Space for Guests Before the Holidays Whether you’re expecting Thanksgiving visitors or early Christmas guests, now’s the time to reclaim: The guest bedroom that’s become a catch-all The garage full of donation piles and out-of-season bins Overflow in closets, dining areas, or living rooms Temporary storage gives you room to breathe—and entertain—without tossing the things you still want to keep. 3. Rotate Your Seasonal Decor Yes, we decorate for fall on the Gulf Coast too! But with Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas coming fast, it’s easy for your home to feel overwhelmed with bins and boxes. Pro tip: Rotate instead of pile up. Pull out your fall wreaths and pumpkin décor Put away summer accents and 4th of July leftovers Prep your Christmas items so they’re ready when it’s time Storage Choice offers easy access units, so you can switch decor by season—without cramming it all into one overstuffed closet. 4. Tidy Up High-Humidity Zones Fall is also a great time to tackle moisture-prone areas like: Laundry rooms Outdoor storage sheds Entryways full of summer shoes, wet beach bags, ...

Storage Choice
September 23rd, 2025

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Dreaming of Coastal Living? The Gulf of America Might Be Your Next Front Porch

Travel And Relocation

Ever catch yourself wishing for a life by the clear blue water—sunshine, sand, and seafood within reach? Well, plenty of folks are packing up and heading to what’s officially called the Gulf of America (yes, that shiny new federal name). It’s easy to see why. Coastal Charm That Doesn’t Break the Bank You get beachside vibes without sky-high costs. Unlike places like Miami or Tampa, many towns along the Gulf of America give you the beachfront lifestyle at a friendly price. Think affordable housing, reasonable rents, and serious value for your dollar. Sun-Kissed Days, Mild Winters Ready to part ways with winter dread? The Gulf delivers with mild winters and sunny, long stretches of summer—perfect for lingering on your porch or indulging in an evening stroll. It’s outdoor living, year-round. Outdoors at Your Doorstep From paddleboarding into the dawn, beach lounging, or fishing off a pier—your options are endless. Lakes, trails, and birdwatching spots? Check, check, and check. Outdoor lovers, meet your playground. Opportunity Knocks—Loud and Clear It’s not just pretty out here—there’s real economic momentum. Healthcare, tourism, energy, shipping, and more are fueling growth across the region. Whether you're starting a career or a business, the Gulf of America offers solid ground to build on. Where Community Feels Like Home Think festivals, fresh-shucked seafood, local art fairs—and a neighborly spirit you won’t find in big cities. People here aren’t just friendly; they make you feel like you're at the right place, right away. Beauty Built Into Every View White-sand beaches, turquoise waves, sunset skies—you’ve seen it in postcards. But here, it’s your everyday walk, your backyard. State parks, bayous, and hidden trails make it feel like every day is a mini getaway. The Best of Both Worlds You get peace and laid-back charm, but you're never far from a city’s conveniences—doctors, shopping, dining, culture. Quiet mornings with easy access to the things that matter. Is It Time to Make the Gulf of America Your Home? If you’re dreaming of affordability, sunshine, and a community that actually cares, this could be your place. At Storage Choice, ...

Storage Choice
September 7th, 2025

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Hidden History Series: The Forgotten Shipwreck of the SS Joseph M. Cudahy

Local History

The Gulf Coast is rich with stories—some celebrated, others long forgotten. In this ongoing series, we’re shining a light on the lesser-known chapters of our region’s past: ghost towns, shipwrecks, lost communities, and remarkable events that shaped the coastline we call home. These stories aren’t just relics—they're reminders of the people, industries, and legacies that built the foundation of today’s Gulf South. In this edition, we revisit the dramatic World War II sinking of the SS Joseph M. Cudahy, a forgotten tragedy that unfolded just off the Florida coast… On a quiet May morning in 1942, deep in the waters of the Gulf of Mexico, tragedy struck just 125 miles west of Naples, Florida. The SS Joseph M. Cudahy, a 430-foot steam tanker loaded with crude and lubricating oil, was torpedoed by a German U-boat—marking one of the many little-known but deadly attacks that took place close to home during World War II. Today, its wreck rests on the sea floor—a silent time capsule, a war grave, and a potential environmental threat—largely forgotten by the general public. This is the story of the Cudahy, a ship that reminds us that even in the warm, serene waters of the Gulf Coast, history runs deep. The Final Voyage The SS Joseph M. Cudahy was built in 1921—an unarmed merchant vessel, 430 feet long, designed to transport large quantities of oil across U.S. waters. On its final voyage, it was carrying over 300,000 gallons of crude and lubricating oil from Houston, Texas, to Marcus Hook, Pennsylvania. But on May 5, 1942, it never made it past the Florida coast. The Attack in the Gulf Just after dawn, the German submarine U-507 fired a torpedo that struck the ship midship. The explosion ignited a massive fire, setting the tanker ablaze. As the fire spread, the crew abandoned ship—but for many, it was too late. Out of 37 crewmembers, only 10 survived. They were eventually rescued by a U.S. Navy aircraft and brought to safety in Key West. As if ...

Storage Choice
August 27th, 2025

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Hurricane Prep Tips: Protecting Your Belongings Before the Storm

Storage Tips

Hurricane season is upon us, preparation is everything. While most people focus on boarding windows and stocking up on supplies, one area often overlooked is protecting personal belongings—especially those not needed during an emergency. Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or business owner, taking a few smart storage steps ahead of time can save you from significant loss and stress later. Here’s how to protect your belongings before the storm hits: 1. Know What to Store and What to Keep With You Before a hurricane warning is issued, identify which items are safe to store and which should remain with you: Store These in a Storage Unit: Furniture and large appliances Seasonal items and sports gear Business inventory or equipment Extra household goods Fragile décor, framed art, and rugs Keep With You: Important documents (ID, insurance, passports) Emergency supplies Medications and essential electronics Pets and irreplaceable valuables 2. Use Climate-Controlled Storage if Available Coastal humidity can worsen quickly during storm season. Climate-controlled storage helps protect: Paper goods Electronics Wood furniture Photographs and heirlooms from moisture and mold—even if power outages affect the area. 3. Prep Your Unit Before the Storm Even in a secure facility, prepping your items helps avoid damage: Place items in plastic bins with tight-fitting lids Elevate boxes on pallets or shelving to prevent water contact Use furniture covers or tarps to block dust and debris Avoid using cardboard for long-term protection—moisture is its enemy 4. Choose a Facility with Security & Accessibility At Storage Choice, our facilities are built with storms in mind. We offer: ✔️ Secure gated access ✔️ 24-hour surveillance ✔️ Indoor and climate-controlled units ✔️ Friendly staff to help with pre-storm guidance 5. Take Inventory (and Photos) Before locking up your storage unit: Create a quick inventory list of everything inside Take photos of items for insurance documentation Double-check that your insurance covers storage if needed Be Storm-Ready with Storage Choice Hurricanes are unpredictable—but your peace of mind doesn’t have to be. With the right storage plan in place, you’ll have one less thing to worry about when the wind starts to blow. 👉 Visit www.storagechoice.net to reserve a unit or learn more about our hurricane-ready storage options. ...

Storage Choice
July 22nd, 2025

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Why Climate-Controlled Storage Is a Must During Hot, Humid Months

Storage Tips

Summer brings sunshine, beach days, and barbecues—but also heat, humidity, and unpredictable weather. While we’re outside enjoying the season, your stored belongings might be facing serious risks if not properly protected. If you're planning to store items during the summer, climate-controlled storage isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity. Here’s why. Extreme Heat Can Warp, Crack, and Ruin Belongings When temperatures soar, so does the risk of heat damage. Items like: Wooden furniture Leather goods Electronics Musical instruments Vinyl records Candles and art supplies can warp, melt, or deteriorate in traditional storage units. Climate-controlled units maintain a consistent temperature—typically between 55°F and 80°F—keeping your valuables safe year-round. Humidity Is the Silent Destroyer High humidity can be just as destructive as heat. Moisture in the air can lead to: Mold and mildew growth Rust on tools, bikes, and appliances Damage to books, photos, and documents Fabric odors and deterioration Climate-controlled storage units regulate both temperature and humidity, creating a dry, stable environment that protects against long-term damage. Great for Seasonal Storage From storing winter clothes and decorations to safely housing your college student’s items between semesters, climate control ensures your belongings stay in the same condition you left them. It's especially important in coastal and southern regions, where summer humidity can reach uncomfortable (and unsafe) levels for delicate items. Cleaner, Better Sealed, Pest-Resistant Because climate-controlled units are typically indoors, they offer an added layer of protection from dust, pests, and outdoor elements. That means fewer worries and less cleanup when you're ready to retrieve your things. Peace of Mind Is Priceless You’ve invested time and money into your belongings—don't let summer conditions undo that. With climate-controlled storage, you get peace of mind knowing everything is stored in a space designed to preserve and protect. Choose Storage Choice for Climate-Controlled Comfort At Storage Choice, we offer clean, secure, and climate-controlled units across our locations to help you weather every season—especially summer. ✔️ Affordable monthly plans ✔️ Flexible sizing options ✔️ Easy online reservations ✔️ Friendly support team Ready to Beat the Heat? Visit www.storagechoice.net to explore climate-controlled unit availability near you. Don’t let the summer sun steal your peace of mind—store smarter with Storage ...

Storage Choice
June 23rd, 2025

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Moving Soon? Why Temporary Storage Makes Life Easier

Storage Tips

Moving is exciting… but let’s be honest—it can also be overwhelming. Whether you're relocating across town or across the country, coordinating packing, timelines, and logistics can feel like juggling flaming boxes. That’s where temporary storage comes in. At Storage Choice, we help make your move smoother, less stressful, and a whole lot more manageable. Here's how. 1. Declutter Before You List Your Home Staging your home for potential buyers? A clean, clutter-free space helps it show better—and sell faster. With a storage unit, you can tuck away excess furniture, seasonal décor, and personal items while keeping them safe until you’re ready for the next chapter. 2. Bridge the Gap Between Move-Out and Move-In Sometimes closing dates don’t line up perfectly. Or maybe you’re building a new home and need a few weeks (or months) of flexibility. Temporary storage gives you a secure place to keep your belongings while you wait, without rushing your move. 3. Simplify the Packing Process Instead of packing everything in a panic, use storage to pack gradually. Move boxes to your unit in stages, giving yourself more time and less pressure. Bonus: your living space stays cleaner and more functional until moving day. 4. Protect Large Furniture and Valuables Moving can be tough on bulky or delicate items. At Storage Choice, we offer climate-controlled units that help protect wooden furniture, electronics, and artwork from humidity and temperature swings during your transition. 5. Take the Stress Off Your Shoulders Moving is one of life’s top stressors. Temporary storage gives you more control, flexibility, and breathing room—so you can focus on settling in, not scrambling for space. 6. Ready to Make Your Move Easier? At Storage Choice, we’re more than just a place to put your stuff—we’re part of your moving plan. With flexible storage options and on-site U-Haul rentals, we make transitions smoother from start to finish. 👉 Visit www.storagechoice.net to find a location near you and reserve your temporary storage unit (and truck!) today. Because moving is hard enough. Let us help you store—and move—smarter. ...

Storage Choice
June 12th, 2025

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How to Protect Your Items in Long-Term Storage

Storage Tips

When life changes—whether you’re moving, downsizing, or storing things for future use—long-term storage can be a lifesaver. But without the right preparation, your items can suffer damage over time from dust, moisture, pests, or temperature shifts. At Storage Choice, we want to make sure your belongings come out of storage looking just as good as the day you packed them away. Here’s your essential guide to protecting your items for the long haul. 🏷️ 1. Choose the Right Storage Unit Not all storage spaces are created equal. For long-term storage, we strongly recommend: ✅ Climate-controlled units for temperature-sensitive items like electronics, wood furniture, photos, and important documents. ✅ Secure, clean, and well-maintained facilities (like ours!) to give you peace of mind your belongings are in good hands. 📦 2. Pack with Purpose Invest in high-quality packing materials—strong boxes, bubble wrap, mattress covers, and plastic bins with tight lids. Avoid using grocery store boxes or old newspapers, which can attract pests or transfer ink onto your items. Pro tip: Fill boxes fully (but not too heavy!) to prevent collapse, and never overload large boxes with heavy items like books. 3. Label Everything Clearly Mark every box with: What’s inside Which room it came from Whether it’s fragile Clear labeling helps you stay organized and makes it much easier to find specific items when you need them. 🛋️ 4. Elevate and Cover Place pallets or boards under your boxes to keep them off the floor, reducing exposure to potential moisture. Cover large items like furniture and mattresses with breathable covers—not plastic wrap—to prevent condensation and mold. 🐜 5. Guard Against Pests At Storage Choice we pride ourselves with clean, pest-controlled, secure facilities. That said,it’s smart to take precautions. Storing food is PROHIBITED! Avoid scented items that attract pests. Use sealed plastic bins where possible. Check if your facility offers pest control services (good news: Storage Choice does!). 🗂️ 6. Check on Your Items Periodically If possible, visit your unit every few months to inspect your belongings. Look for signs of moisture, mold, or pests and rearrange items to promote airflow. 🔑 Why Trust Storage ...

Storage Choice
May 2nd, 2025

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