The Mobile County Commission Tuesday approved $45,000 for the Gulf Coast Classic game, praising the new executive director for her business approach and her commitment to pay the debts owed from last year’s Classic game in Mobile.

            The appropriation matches last year’s contribution of $50,000 minus the 10 percent cut made to all county appropriations to balance this year’s budget.

            Amelia Bacon, the new Gulf Coast Classic executive director, said last year’s game was marred by mismanagement, but a new management team was in place now.

            “The Classic was run by a group of promoters last year,” Bacon told the commissioners at the meeting.  “That was not appropriate.” After the meeting, she told reporters she would be using “old-fashioned management, with transparency and accountability.”

            “What we’ve got is the total package,” said Commission president Mike Dean about the new executive director. “She brings people together, and she has business sense and accountability.”

            The Mobile Area Hotel Association also announced its support for the game and the appropriation to it from the county’s hotel marketing fund. The association’s spokesman Chuck Cuff said the hoteliers had met with Bacon and believe the game can be turned into a “major event” for Mobile.

            Commissioner Stephen Nodine said the county would “do all possible to make (the game) a success.” He commended Bacon for bringing in credible partners, such as Commonwealth National Bank and other sponsors.

             At the meeting, Nodine said that he had secured a commitment of support from the management of the Senior Bowl and GMAC Bowl to advise the Gulf Coast Classic in any way possible to help it succeed.

            “It’s important that the community has rallied around the game,” said Commissioner Merceria Ludgood.  “It’s been an asset to the community for 34 years.  A strong coalition will guarantee its future.”