Mardi Gras means fat business for Gulf Coast  MELISSA NELSON
Associated Press Published:  FAIRHOPE, Ala. (AP) -- Most people
think of New Orleans when they hear the words "Mardi Gras." But
the Southern tradition is celebrated in plenty of other places
along the Gulf Coast.  And it means big business.  Tourism
leaders estimate more than 1 million visitors pour into the
Mobile, Ala., area each season to watch the festivities. They
spend money at hotels, restaurants and stores during the month-
long celebration.  In Florida, Pensacola Beach's Mardi Gras
schedule has 16 events, including a Moon Pie party, red beans
and rice lunch and a shoe box float contest.