Mobile and Baldwin County News
Reports circulated that the Gulf Coast Classic was nearing a three-year, $1.5 million title sponsorship, badly needed good news for an event that survived a bruising fight over Mobile city…
Organizers of the Gulf Coast Classic predicted the game would one day rival the Iron Bowl. Council President Reggie Copeland wanted bank statements, canceled checks and an honest attendance count.
An audit of the Gulf Coast Classic listed $17,223 in printing costs, far more than the Senior Bowl or BayFest spent. Organizers said the figure covered far more than tickets.
A promised press conference on the Gulf Coast Classic's $188,000 deficit was called off, with organizers citing sensitive negotiations. The city put $275,000 into last fall's game at Ladd-Peebles Stadium.
The council president questioned the promotion budget, the ticket printing, the mayor's luncheon and a step show with no revenue, and disputed the attendance count for a football game the…