Some readers e-mailed to report the return of Murdoch’s Pier, a landmark Seawall business smashed to bits by Hurricane Ike a little more than a year ago. It’s a big deal. I know. The shop on a pier over the Gulf of Mexico made international news when Hurricane Ike left nothing of it but a gutted shell.

Some readers were astonished the paper would snub such an event. The rebuilding of such an iconic island establishment has been an uplifting symbol of island recovery. Its return snuck up on me. And in my defense, I was on vacation. And, Jim Little, whose family owns the world famous souvenir shop, was going for a soft opening, he said. So no, I wasn't snubbing Murdoch's. I promise.

Little and family plan a bigger to-do when the shop, which started in the 1800s renting bathing suits and showers to visitors, makes a complete return.

The east side of the building, where Murdoch’s sells gifts, T-shirts, lamps and other popular island merchandise, is renovated and open. The west side of the building, where Murdoch’s serves snacks and beverages, likely will open before Thanksgiving, which is Nov. 26, Little said.

Murdoch's is working to sort out a phone problem and I plan to follow up with Little in a few days to see whether he has it resolved. But the shop is welcoming customers. Stay tuned. And meanwhile, share some Murdoch memories.