Access May Magazine

mobile's virginia guy

A LOCAL FORCE PROTECTING OUR SHORES & TACKLING THE NATIONAL UNDERAGE VAPING CRISIS

FEATURING: preservation project: the final home reveal!

THE COCHRAN BUILDERS & THE MCDONALD FAMILY OPEN THE DOORS TO THIS HISTORICAL RENOVATION

karlos finley & A PATH TO PROGRESS PLUS: SUMMER ENTERTAINING TRENDS

from the EDITOR...

Some things are simply worth the wait. Having jumped in on the Cochran Builders complete renovation project on the McDonald families historic home a year ago, we decided to hold this issue for the spectacular final reveal. Just like a magazine staff, they worked around the clock to meet their deadline for a planned celebration. From last minute landscaping to final detailing, they knocked it out of the park. Having learned a wealth of information, the Access team will never look at an old home the same way again. Adding new meaning to reclaimed wood and custom moldings, it was a fascinating journey. And what craftsmen we have here on the Bay! Adding to the lessons, we caught up with several leaders offering insight and new perspectives sure to ignite all our thinking. Backing her passion with action in the form of bringing other powerhouses together to create new legislation to impact the underage vaping crisis, Virginia Guy is certainly one to watch and support. Karlos Finley also updates us on what’s happening in Africatown after the Netflix hit, Descendant, and provides a path forward for us all, tool. With a simple wish for more listening, he offers promising food for thought. Rounding out the issue, Kelsey and Casey Stewart show us how to party in style this summer and we share the party highlights from the Audi grand opening and so much more. Happy summer and enjoy the read!

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MAY 2023

VOLUME 92 NUMBER 83

CONTENTS

PARTY PICS

From Mobile’s glamorous Audi grand opening to the one year in business celebration of Drs. Dusty Smith and Mary Wells hit practice, MD Aesthetics of Mobile Bay, the Bay’s social scene is in high gear!

VIRGINIA’S VENTURE

Mobile’s own Virginia Guy is blazing a trail to not only address the underage vaping crisis sweeping our shores, but across the nation, too. A remarkable leader, she fills us in on her life’s work and this vital new adventure.

PROJECT PRESERVATION: THE FINAL HOME REVEAL

What a difference a year makes! Last May Access caught up with local builders and brothers, Geoffrey and Jared Cochran, for the McDonald family home restoration. Tied to the Civil War, see the finished results.

JOY ON TAP

Bringing life to the party, Kelsey Stewart specializes in providing all we need for a fun and picture-perfect event. With her husband Casey by her side, the couple show off the best in summer entertaining.

FOUNDER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / PUBLISHER

Hayley Hill

CREATIVE DIRECTOR / STAFF

PHOTOGRAPHER

Stevye Murray

ART DIRECTOR

Rebecca Foose

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Caroline Edmondson

MARKET EDITOR

Kristi Welford Hicks

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT

Schon Reed

FINANCIAL COORDINATOR

Mary Frances DeLong

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58 4

MASTERING SUCCESSION

Due to the hit HBO series, Succession, we caught up with Justin Law, a Wealth Management Advisor, to address the passing of the family business torch through the generations.

A PATH TO PROGRESS

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With the discovery of the Clotilda in the Mobile Delta, the last known U.S. slave ship from 1860, Karlos Finley brings us all the opportunity to address our history.

DEPRESSION DISCOVERY

With mental health on the forefront of every news cycle, it can seem daunting at times. Luckily, there’s hope and Mobile’s Dr. Brad Sadler of Southern Psychiatry Associates shares the scoop.

COLUMNS

From summer boating cocktails and what’s happening around town, our local experts weigh in.

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GRAND OPENING

With new owners, the Carlock family, and a sleek updated showroom, the Audi team from near and far, hosted a brilliant VIP filled soiree for Bay area guests. Director of Alabama Universities A-Club, and former footballer, the one and only BJ Stabler, made a grand entrance as he connected with area members and more. Country chart topper, Jason Byrd, revealed his new single , and your soon-tobe summer anthem, “Gulf Coastin.” All about our beloved Flora-Bama and white sandy beaches, the enthusiastic crowd welcomed Jason with open arms. Plus, Nashville’s DJ Zewmob of Hangout Fest fame added to the all star lineup, too. Bay Gourmet and Chuck’s Fish knocked it out of the park with an oyster grilling station and binget fries as well as delicious sushi. Oh what a night!

By Hayley Hill Photos Layla Lambert, l-egantportraits.com

Ready to celebrate, the Audi team opened the doors to their new showroom to rave reviews.

With his stunning wife, Ioanna, on his arm, guest of honor, BJ Stabler, brought his A-game to the red carpet. A former student athlete at the University of Alabama, and now the Director of his alma mater’s beloved A-Club, he welcomed athletes from the Mobile area like Sherman Cedric Williams who played in the National Football League for the Dallas Cowboys. A fan of the Bay area, BJ shares, “The Bay area is such an integral part of the university and the A-Club, and we all love the opportunity to connect in person!” Our suggestion? Follow him on social media for golf outings and more local fun.

Trace Carlock

A fan of the Gulf Coast, Country Crooner, Jason Byrd has opened for powerhouses like the legendary George Jones, Tracy Lawrence, Loretta Lynn, Dierks Bently and more. With a new song to share about our sandy beaches, Jason showed up to share his new hit, “Gulf Coastin.” One to watch, stay in the know and tune in for local dates on his social media.

Jason & Access cover girl, Monica Gray

Aaron VanHauter & guitarist, Rod Jones

DJ Zewmob from the Future Astronauts is a party must!

The iconic Audi logo floral design from Lush Home Garden Event

CHEERS TO ONE YEAR

Cheers to Dr. Mary Wells and Dr. Dusty Smith! Celebrating the one year anniversary of their practice, MD Aesthetics of Mobile Bay in downtown Fairhope, guests enjoyed bites from Rae’s Kitchen, the sweetest cotton candy cart spinning flavors like champagne and lavender, and the tricked out Tap & Pour Italian mini-truck stocked with rose’, Prosecco, and more. Plus, Lights by the Bay lit up the pink carpet with their custom marquee topped with a festive balloon arch from Daphne’s Pop and Pour. Friends, family and clients were treated to discounts, goodies, and the latest beauty scoop, too.

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VIRGINIA’S

VENTURE

If you’ve ever met the Executive Director of Alabama’s Drug Education Council (DEC), Virginia Foxworth Guy, you know she’s calm, cool, and collected. Incredibly kind and an undeniable force at the same time, she’s a woman on a mission who will stop at nothing to ensure the DEC makes as big of an impact as humanly possible on addiction and all the issues that surround it — including the law. Armed with facts like more than 2.5 million middle and high school students vape every single day, she’s seeking real change locally and nationally. And, she’s just the “Guy” to do it. On a prime-time journey that puts the Bay area on center-stage, she shares the staggering facts we all need to know and more.

BY Hayley Hill PHOTOS Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com

HAIR Felisha Allen, HeadDress Salon, 251.689.7427

MAKEUP Courtney Matthews Makeup Artistry, Cocokat1978@gmail.com

Having recently attended the annual DEC luncheon, I was amazed by the packed room.

Filled with the Bay’s most impressive and philanthropic people, it was a heart-felt reminder of how most everyone’s life has been impacted by addiction. Even Mobile’s Mayor, Sandy Stimpson, shared words of hope that many are still talking about. Interestingly, this luncheon is the only fundraiser the DEC hosts annually which makes it that much more important and proves that when a community comes together, real impact and change can be made.

If you’ve raised children in the area, chances are at one point your children came home full of excitement after experiencing the DeBakey drug education vehicle. I can easily recall my kids bouncing through the door telling me all about the “drunk” goggles they tried on and how dumb drinking was. Operated in partnership with Mobile Infirmary Medical Systems, this traveling learning laboratory utilizes interactive technology and features an experienced facilitator to teach students about the harmful consequences of substance abuse. Talk about a win-win!

Regarding the DEC mission, Virginia shares, “The vision of the DEC is to promote healthy choices to impact the hearts and minds of individuals and families and to change the community narrative about substance use disorder and addiction. Certified in Alabama, we have offices in Mobile and Baldwin counties and provide services in Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe, and Washington Counties. Each program and practice are based on a set of core beliefs that every one of us is important and deserves to be nurtured and has a responsibility to promote healthy choices, and that the abuse of alcohol and drugs is preventable, addiction is treatable, and recovery happens,” Virginia tells us.

Since most of us are aware of how deep addiction runs both locally and nationally, Virginia has a big job. Known for her laserlike focus, and for sprinting around in heels, her history is as interesting as her work. Born in Kingsport, TN, Virginia’s family relocated when she was just 3 years old when her father,

a Presbyterian minister, was called to serve in Mobile. Inquiring about her calling and how addiction impacted her life, her response was anything but typical. “Recovery has impacted my life far more than active addiction. My father, Reverend Watson Guy, was in long-term recovery before he met my mother. So, I had an incredible example. I grew up being taught about the principles of recovery long before I was ever exposed to anyone in active addiction. This is unique as it was very unusual in those days for a minister to speak openly about their recovery. Of course, through my work, I now deal with addiction and recovery daily.”

Starting to connect the dots, Virginia shares the history of the DEC. “The agency was formed as a residential home for alcoholics through Mobile’s ministry of the Council of Downtown Churches in the late 60s. Their goal was to provide treatment, recovery, and rehabilitation to those who had fallen victim to alcohol. My father was the first Director of the agency. During my college internship with the agency, I fell in love with the mission and the people we served. The rest is history!” So, yes, this has been her one and only job.

Asking what people might be surprised, or even shocked, to learn about drugs and alcohol, Virginia is quick to respond, “We are keenly aware that 90% of addiction begins in the teenage years. This is when the developing brain is very vulnerable to being negatively impacted since the brain is not fully developed until the early 20s. The longer we can delay the onset of alcohol and drug use, the better chance a person has of not developing addiction and for being able to have a normal relationship with alcohol and drugs for the remainder of their lives.”

As to why the DEC is so important to this community, Virginia shares, “Substance use disorder and addiction are a significant factor in almost every other social issue. If we can reduce alcohol and drug misuse, we can significantly reduce health care costs, insurance rates, crime and incarceration, family violence, child abuse and neglect, low educational attainment, unemployment, and more. Not to mention the pain and suffering families experience because of a loved one’s addiction.”

Getting specific about our youth, Virginia adds, “Parents really need to know that this is the most dangerous time for drug use I’ve ever seen. With the proliferation of fentanyl across our nation, all drugs bought online, from a friend, or on the street could be tainted with a lethal dose of this deadly drug. Sadly, ‘just one pill can kill.’ Plus, we are at an all-time high for serious mental health issues, especially among our youth. Drugs interfere with the normal production of serotonin and dopamine in the brain and have been shown to disrupt mood and attention in adolescents. With so many adolescents already struggling, drug use is making a difficult mental health crisis far worse.”

Standing firm in her belief that It’s never too early to talk with your children about making healthy choices, the DEC offers a lot of help. “We have age-appropriate materials to help parents start the conversations, and we are available to consult with families about their individual needs. Our main message to parents is, ‘Talk early. Talk often. They hear you.’” A tremendous resource, they offer free, anonymous drug screenings for juveniles at their offices, and no personal identifiers are collected. The Chemical Abuse Prevention Program (CAPP) is another available resource where families gain insight in areas essential to positive youth and family development. They also offer a variety of workshop and training opportunities that parents can easily sign up for on their website.

However, underage vaping, a full-blown national crisis, is what’s keeping Virginia and her team up at night. Believe it or not, our children are able to not only buy vapes through social media, but they can also purchase them in local shops. And some parents even give their children vaping materials. PSA alert: nicotine in any form is an addictive drug. “The youth vaping crisis scares me for the most vulnerable in our community — our children Starting a few years ago with teenagers, now children as young as 8 or 9 years old are experimenting with these dangerous devices. Vapes can contain nicotine, THC, or even fentanyl. Even worse, are the chemicals. When inhaled, they can cause permanent lung damage as they are the only organs that do not repair themselves. I am saddened that a young child could end up with lung damage for a lifetime. To protect our children, we must criminalize these devices for our underage folks!”

And the numbers don’t lie. In fact, they are shocking. More than

a million teens started vaping between 2017 and 2019. A survey of 20,000 people shows that 75.4% of them are between the ages of 14 and 17. The popularity of Juul and other vaping cartridges targeted at children in flavors like bubble gum, gummy bears, cotton candy, and Fruit Loops are fueling a market valued at $22.4 billion in 2022 and expected to grow to $182.8 billion by 2030.

More than 1 in 4 high school students say they vape every single day and nearly 1 in 5 students in the 8th, 10th and 12th grades have vaped marijuana. With inconceivable funding, the tobacco/vaping industry is even targeting our elementary school students— children 7and 8-years-old are already vaping. Sadly, the FDA is overwhelmed. They simply cannot keep up with the rapidly evolving tactics and new products being introduced to the market — along with loopholes that allow manufacturers and sellers to evade regulations as fast as they are enacted.

Plus, neither school officials nor law enforcement have the adequate resources to discipline youth offenders. This has resulted in inconsistent consequences leading to highly addicted children who can become both distracted and disruptive in the classroom. And given the fact that the tobacco industry is heavily invested in the vaping industry, giving it the resources needed to evolve and evade regulators, vape products are heavily marketed to youth through brand ambassadors, partnerships, and other campaigns on social media. With more than 15,000 flavors currently on the market, 85% of teens vape because they enjoy the taste. Some products with CBD and Delta-8 can even be purchased legally by minors.

And the health consequences cannot be emphasized enough. Doctors are reporting serious health issues like lung disease in teens caused by vaping as they contain the harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, nail polish remover, weed killer, and bug spray, as well as toxins like formaldehyde, lead, and aluminum. Because vaping devices deliver much higher concentrations than smoking a cigarette, the nicotine in one vape cartridge is equivalent to 20 cigarettes. Vaping THC is increasingly becoming the norm and levels of THC delivered by a vaping device can be as much as 16 times higher than found in a joint.

After consulting with physicians, behavioral scientists, counselors, educators, legislators, and law enforcement officials, Virginia and her

UNDERAGE VAPING CRISIS FAST FACTS:

MORE THAN A MILLION TEENS STARTED VAPING BETWEEN 2017 AND 2019. 75.4% OF THEM ARE BETWEEN THE AGES OF 14 AND 17

THE POPULARITY OF JUUL AND OTHER VAPING CARTRIDGES TARGETED AT CHILDREN IN FLAVORS LIKE BUBBLE GUM, GUMMY BEARS, COTTON CANDY, AND FRUIT LOOPS ARE FUELING A MARKET VALUED AT $22.4 BILLION IN 2022 AND EXPECTED TO GROW TO $182.8 BILLION BY 2030.

MORE THAN 1 IN 4 HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS SAY THEY VAPE EVERY SINGLE DAY AND NEARLY 1 IN 5 STUDENTS IN THE 8TH, 10TH AND 12TH GRADES HAVE VAPED MARIJUANA.

CHILDREN 7 AND 8-YEARS-OLD ARE ALREADY VAPING.

A DEFENDER OF MOBILE AND BALDWIN COUNTIES YOUTH, VIRGINIA GUY IS TAKING A STAND. STAY CONNECTED, FOLLOW THE DRUG EDUCATION COUNCIL ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM.

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team have quite literally sparked a movement that’s quickly sweeping the state and nation.

For starters, Alabama State Senator Vivian Davis Figures recently introduced a bill that makes it unlawful for any individual under the age of 21 to purchase, use, possess, or transport any “electronic battery-powered device capable of being used to deliver any e-liquid, e-liquid substitute, tobacco, CBD oil, THC oil, herbal extract, nicotine salt, or any analog thereof, or any other substance to the individual through the inhalation of vapor…” The bill notes that “a violation is committed upon mere possession” of a vaping device, regardless of substance, if any, in the device. The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support and was co-sponsored by 100% of the state senators present.

Figures, a long-time healthcare advocate and successful author of the Alabama Clean Indoor Air Act, stated, “Alabama has one of the highest incidences of vaping in the nation, which leads to higher healthcare costs, a loss of productivity, and a higher morbidity. This bill is meant to keep vaping devices out of the hands of minors and to keep our youth healthy so they can make informed decisions about vaping at a more appropriate age.”

A deeply involved and ecstatic Virginia adds, “This bill amends the law that prohibits the possession of tobacco by minors and is no different than the law prohibiting the possession of alcohol by minors. It will mean better health for our young people and our state overall,” Virginia said. “I would urge everyone to contact their legislator and ask them to vote for this underage vaping bill. Let’s make Alabama a leader in the effort to outlaw underage vaping!”

Also, HB 319, sponsored by Representative Barbara Drummond, was just approved by the House Judiciary Committee. “I want to make some things very clear on this bill,” Drummond said. “This bill does not deal with adults vaping. It is simply for children who are 21 years old and under. This bill will make it illegal for retailers to sell all vaping products to youth who are under that age. It will also make it illegal to sell any vape product that is not in the directory that was established by this body in 2021.”

While everything is moving in the right direction, Virginia still has quite the battle ahead and I must know how she does it all. “I try to take good care of myself. I strive to eat healthy, get plenty of sleep and exercise, spend time with friends, and most importantly, I pray! Plus, we live in the coolest place on earth! The beach is my “thin space” – it has so much of God’s goodness,” she humbly shares. Looking for a meaningful career moment, Virginia adds, “My heart is touched most deeply when I see young people overcoming incredible odds, making healthy choices, becoming leaders, and giving back to their community. Many of our youth are doing the right thing and being exceedingly courageous in standing up for their values. I continue to be in awe!”

Kevin L. Pickett, DMD, MS

the PRESERVATION PROJECT:

FINAL REVEAL

What a difference a year makes! Last May Access caught up with local builders and brothers extraordinaire, Geoffrey and Jared Cochran, as they were gearing up to renovate an Olde-Towne Daphne home with a significant history tied to the Civil War. Dripping in dramatic details like the sound of termites eating their way through the home while they tried to sleep and recreating significant moldings from yesteryear, homeowners Matt and Amy McDonald opened their doors to share their first-hand experience with this massive renovation. Armed with a team of experts, they’ve reached the finish line after two years of blood, sweat, and yes, a few tears. So, without further ado — Access is proud to present the new and improved, Cullum-Lea-Caffey home.

By HAYLEY HILL Photos STEVYE PHOTOGRAPHY, StevyePhotography.com Makeup TESSA MOODY, TESSARAYMOODY@GMAIL.COM

PROGRESS PHOTOS

Possessing a fascinating history, Mobile Bay was used as a major port for blockade runners bringing in badly needed supplies for the Confederacy during the Civil War. Perfectly positioned, the Cullum-LeaCaffey home played a significant role. Standing on the expansive property that now belongs to the McDonalds, one can face the Bay and easily feel the property’s past events come to life. Dating back to the mid 1800s, injured soldiers battling in the Bay were ushered into the home for triage until they could be safely shipped to the hospital at what is now Point Clear’s Grand Hotel. Interestingly, the home’s shutters were used as stretchers to carry the wounded to and from the Bay. And, with a historical plaque of its own, one of the country’s oldest and largest China Fur trees has long kept watch over the property.

Recalling that the McDonald’s purchased what they thought was their forever home in 2015 with dreams of raising their two daughters, Abby, 16, and Avery, 12, on this picturesque water-front property, they were devasted by the termite-infested turn of events not long after. Having to start a renovation from the ground up was unimaginable. Distraught and displaced, the couple contacted the adored Cochran Builders and, fortunately, the rest is history.

Reflecting, Geoffrey shares, “We thought we had a good idea about the home’s condition and the scope of work necessary to bring it back up to par. However, once we started, we were completely amazed by the amount of termite damage we found and had not anticipated. I learned quickly you can never anticipate just how much damage you’re up against until you open everything up — it was devastating. Since it’s listed on the National Historic Registry, all precautions were taken to maintain the integrity of the home and only authentic materials were used to put it back together. Preserving the old windows and doors, and as much of the original hardwood as possible was challenging! This took a lot of time and labor, much more than we ever thought. Literally every piece of lumber was removed and replaced with the same quality and species that was used originally. Without the expertise of Zach Deas and the team at Deas Millwork, as well as their specialized machinery and access to historic materials, this project could not have been completed!”

Jared Cochran, the other half of Cochran Builders shares his brother’s sentiment. “This home was catastrophically damaged by the termites. Because of its historical nature, it had to be torn apart board by board and built back the same exact way. And the biggest challenge is not knowing what you’re getting into. You’d have to have X-ray vision to know what truly lies behind the walls. Unfortunately, it was like opening Pandora’s box. However, as custom builders, we prepare for the worst, and deliver the best product possible.”

No easy feat considering the hard deadline they were given. “We initially thought two years would be more than enough time considering the scope of work. We also knew that Abby, the oldest daughter, would turn sixteen in May of 2023, and her party had to happen at the home. Fortunately, we were able to achieve this goal in the nick of time! There were times I wasn’t sure we could as the scope of the work was a moving target. For homeowners looking to start a renovation, especially a large one, it’s crucial to remember the timetable will most definitely fluctuate as the scope of work changes. Patience is required and as contractors, we do everything in our power to meet deadlines!” Geoffrey shares.

With the simple goal of giving the home back to the McDonald family as quickly and as historically correct as possible, this renovation is certainly one for the books. From the wide plank flooring, custom cabinetry, and trim-work, to the modern amenities that add function and flair like deluxe tubs and showers and a chef-worthy kitchen, the results speak for themselves. Offering what fans of old homes adore like wide hallways, plastered walls, views galore, and 14-foot ceilings, there’s simply a quality not seen in many new builds. For homeowner Amy, “There’s not just one special thing about our home — everything is special. It has such a rich history, and the Cochran brothers did a wonderful job bringing it back to its original character.”

Now happily settled in what both Matt and Amy agree is once again their dream home, they’ll never forget this long-fought battle. “Just three years after purchasing the home, little did we know what lied ahead. I easily recall moving a picture frame in my daughter’s room and seeing a small dirt spot on the wall. Terminix told us it was contained and under control. However, we kept finding more damaged areas. After a long battle with Terminix, we finally had to sue them and take on the job of renovating our home. Since it’s historic, we had to go a much more extensive route to maintain the integrity of the original structure. Luckily, the Cochran brothers agreed to take on this battle. They put together a great crew that kept everything in compliance with all the historical guidelines, too. It’s been a long road, but we are so pleased with the results and so happy to be home again!” Amy tells us.

Seconding Amy’s outlook, Matt adds, “We just wanted to salvage our dream home. We purchased the home to raise our children in and to have a place for all of us to entertain friends and family. After being displaced, we now love coming home and being able to look out our windows at this amazing property and the Bay beyond it. It never gets old, and we feel blessed every time we do it.”

Thrilled with the results, Geoffrey adds, “Our goal was to give the McDonalds the home they loved, completely free of termites! They now have the best of both worlds — a “new” historic home. From consulting with architect and historical home expert, Louis Craig Roberts, to preserving and rebuilding the old antique pine floors and weighted windows complete with the original lead weights form the civil war time, to saving the famed marble fireplaces, it’s better than ever. Requiring true craftsmanship, Barry Easterling, our carpenter, and his men worked tirelessly taking this home apart piece by piece and taking all the necessary precautions to get the various historical items to Zach so they could be recreated and then reinstalled. We will forever appreciate their tremendous talents.”

After the weight of the project, lawsuits, and historical board approvals, there’s certainly more than one silver lining in this story. “Matt and Amy are great people to work for. It’s always the goal to finish a custom build and be friends with the clients afterwards. The greatest thing you can have is a client’s friendship. A good recommendation is great, too! I’ve enjoyed sharing a pheasant field in South Dakota, and a duck blind in Nebraska, with Matt. He’s become a great friend,” Jared explains. As for Geoffrey? “I first met Matt and Amy years ago when our kids started playing soccer together. When we moved our daughter to Bayside Academy, we found ourselves spending even more time together. Matt and I both are sportsmen and have done a little hunting together, too.”

Naturally, this project wasn’t always easy. “When Matt asked us to take this on, we gladly accepted. However, I’d be lying if I said going through a build like this doesn’t have its share of ups and downs! Homeowners and contractors don’t always see eye-to-eye, and it can test any relationship. However, Matt and Amy are outstanding people who are a complete pleasure to work for. Keeping an open dialogue with your client is crucial as communication is the key to any successful relationship. They trusted us throughout the renovation, and I’ve come to love them. I’m very thankful to call them close friends. Matt and I already have a couple hunting trips planned, and I look forward to watching our girls play soccer for the Lady Admirals next year!” Geoffrey beams.

ORIGINAL STRUCTURE FROM THE 1800S & THE HOME TODAY

With the preservation project behind them, we wonder what’s next? “We are so looking forward to seeing our kids enjoy the house with their friends. We love to entertain and being able to celebrate Abby’s 16th birthday recently was so rewarding!” Amy beams. As for the Cochran brothers? “We have a few large projects underway and several more on the architects drawing board as we speak. We’re also working on a large hunting lodge in Stockton that we’re very excited about! Interestingly, we will soon start another huge Mobile Bay-front home project just down the street from the McDonald residence. We feel truly blessed and we are so thankful for all the men and women who help us make these projects come to life from Spring Hill to the Eastern Shore, and beyond,” the Cochran brothers conclude.

JOYON TAP

Bringing the life to a party has always come naturally for Kelsey Stewart, owner of Tap and Pour, a company that specializes in bringing the fun to you through their uber adorable and totally Instagramable party rentals including their mobile bars: the Tap & Trike and the Piaggio Truck, plus their super sweet Candy Bar and Snowcone Trike, and our personal favorite, the Cotton Candy Cart. Kelsey, along with her husband, Casey, are making a huge splash in the Gulf Coast’s party scene.

By CAROLINE EDMONDSON Photos STEVYE PHOTOGRAPHY, StevyePhotography.com Hair JASON CHAMBERS, HeadDress

Salon, 251.689.7427. Makeup COURTNEY MATTHEWS MAKEUP ARTISTRY, Cocokat1978@gmail.com

Born and raised right here on the Gulf Coast along the banks of Dog River, Kelsey’s love of party planning comes from growing up with her fun-loving, creative Mama, Kassy Wooley. For Kelsey and her mother, planning extravagant birthday parties became an annual production each year. “From the plates, napkins, balloons, favors, drink labels, menu, outfits—the whole nine yards. We planned birthdays, holidays, family events, my wedding, baby showers.... you name it! If there was a party, we threw it,” laughs Kelsey.

Kelsey soon developed her mother’s same love for planning and throwing unforgettable parties and events, and continued that love well after graduating high school. While attending school for graphic design, Kelsey party planned for friends, family, and church events every chance she could. “I never really viewed it as a job, rather a passion that I just really enjoyed,” she tells us. “Out of design school I started an embroidery/ vinyl online shop called Stewart Avenue, and it became very successful!” Along with her husband, Casey, Stewart Avenue continued its success for three years, but with the birth of their son, Dean, 1, Kelsey decided to dive head first into the party world. “I was constantly scrolling Pinterest, following party accounts, and saving themes for events I hoped to one day throw. I purchased a white bounce house on a whim and that’s what started it all,” recalls Kelsey. “I love that there’s a world where plate shapes, napkin colors and signature drinks are important because to me, they always were! It brings me so much joy to create a beautiful atmosphere where you and your guests can gather to fellowship, laugh, and make memories that last a lifetime.”

Starting with their white bounce house, which they fondly call June, Kelsey and Casey started a little rental company called Scotty and June, offering party rentals and planning. With just two events under their belt, they received a message from Lesley Hendon, the previous owner of Tap and Pour, stating that if she didn’t sell the business to Kelsey, she would become her biggest competition! Highly flattered and pinching herself, the couple officially purchased Tap and Pour in January of this year. “It was everything we had planned for Scotty and June, turn key! I love that Tap and Pour is a business that can really cater to any type of event!”

Tap and Pour is easily recognizable at any event thanks to their unique mobile bars and party rentals. We absolutely love their custom built, vintage Piaggio truck that can serve anything cold on tap. Cocktails, beer, wine, coffee, juices…you name it, they can pour it! “Our Piaggio will definitely be the talk of your event!” says Kelsey. In addition, they also have the Ferla Tap Trike, which can hold 2 taps along with custom printed drink menus, drink labels, décor and even a retro cooler to match your theme! But the fun doesn’t stop there. They even have a Cotton Candy Cart spun fresh on site with gourmet custom flavors, and a Snow Cone Cart to satisfy your guests’ sweet tooth. Other rentals include: a champagne wall, fringe walls, white bounce houses and ball pits, balloon garland, and even a movie screen for a viewing under the stars!

When it comes to today’s popular party trends, Kelsey says they’ve seen an astounding theme of creating a fun experience based on atmosphere. “We’ve

also seen a emphasis on ensuring there is something for guests of all ages to partake in,” shares Kelsey. “Bounce Houses and Ball Pits for the littles, Signature Cocktails on the Tap Truck for the parents, and cotton candy for everyone! We often have clients that want to throw an event but are unsure of a theme or entertainment, and we are happy to walk them through that process to create the perfect party! We love dealing with clients that want a hand in every detail and help bring their vision to life while also working with clients that give us an idea and let us run with it! Every event is unique and there are never two exactly alike, and that’s what I like most in this business. It fuels me!”

And behind all of the extravagant rentals is a company whose belief is that special occasions deserve something beyond the ordinary and familiar. “We’re not just a mobile service; we’re also committed to creating an atmosphere where fun and conversation can flourish. We have a passion for great occasions and memorable moments, and want to do our part to help make your event an event unlike any other,” shares Kelsey. “What’s that saying? People will forget what you said or what you did, but they will remember how you made them feel. -Maya Angelou.”

Having spent the day with these two, we’re in awe of how seamlessly they run as a team. “I couldn’t do this without the help of my husband and the rest of our family. Casey does the mechanical, maintenance, construction, transportation, and logistics of the business while I lean towards the creative, customer service, and social media aspect of the business—together it just works,” Kelsey foldly shares. “Our families play a huge role in Tap and Pour and are always lending a hand, dropping deliveries, building sets, and watching Dean. You’ll often see my Mama, Daddy, sister or brother at community events helping with setup and take down! As the company grows we’ve come to rely more on family support!”

In reality, Kelsey works two full-time jobs: Tap and Pour, and Mama to her little boy, Dean. “Being a businesswoman and mama at the same time is no walk in the park and forever changing. However, being a businesswoman and mama simultaneously is so rewarding! You’ll often see our son at set up or take down lending a little hand, and to see his eagerness to help is the best thing as a parent! We like to add a ‘spoon full of sugar’, as we call it, to work days and bring bikes or grab ice cream and make memories in the process!”

Since purchasing Tap and Pour at the start of this year, Kelsey and Casey have been nonstop working events and parties along the Gulf Coast, and with summer quickly approaching, the fun has only just begun! “We have a busy calendar this summer, Kelsey tells us. “We are looking forward to all of the summer kick off parties with snow cones and ice cold drinks on tap. If you’re looking at hosting a party, we have a few ideas for your summer of FUN: ‘One in the Sun,” complete with our ball pit bounce house and cotton candy, ‘Dive into Summer,’ with all the snow cone flavors, ‘Oh my Stars,’ backyard BBQ with cocktails on tap, and movie nights on the big screen with popcorn and a soda trike!”

Needless to say, if you’re planning a special event, whether a birthday party, family get together, or even a corporate gathering, let Kelsey and Casey of Tap & Pour help bring your vision to life. With their arsenal of exciting rentals, they will surely leave your guests speechless and help create memories to last a lifetime.

A PEACEFUL PLACE TO FIND MIND-BODY WELLNESS

Offering

Individual Mental Health Counseling | Private Individual & Small Group Yoga Classes

Meet Sydney Wasdin, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, RYT. Sydney is our practice owner and a Licensed Professional Counselor who takes a mind-body and traumainformed approach to work emerging adults, young adults and motivated adolescents seeking to understand themselves from a whole body perspective as they work towards building healthier lives and skills for managing life stressors and transitions, anxiety, OCD and perfectionism. She believes true therapy is based on each individual’s needs, perspectives and expertise in their own lives. She is known to employ a variety of approaches including Mindfulness-Baaed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Exposure Response Prevention in addition to encouraging and infusing movement for mind-body connection into sessions with her clients.

Are you a health-wellness professional interested in joining our practice?

Sydney Wasdin, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, RYT, and Founder, Yoga-Therapist, and Counselor-Psychotherapist.

WE’RE HIRING! EMAIL: HELLO@TRUEYOGATHERAPY.COM

Dress, $199; Dillard’s, 251.471.1551. Heels, $150; The Gallery Shoe Boutique, 251.344.4257. Earrings, $60; The Holiday, 251.432.4911.

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Top, $99, Jeans, $89; Dillard’s, 251.471.1551. Heels, $120; The Gallery Shoe Boutique, 251.344.4257. Earrings, $105; The Holiday, 251.432.4911.

SERVICES:

General Psychiatry | Anxiety Disorders | Major Depression and Other Depressive Illnesses

Bipolar Disorders and Other Disorders of Mood | Schizophrenia and Other Psychotic Disorders

Attention Deficit Disorder | Addiction Medicine | Sexual Diorders

Physical Fitness | Nutrition and Health

– DR. BRAD SADLER SOUTHERN PSYCHIATRY FOUNDER

“Southern Psychiatry Associates is a physician-led group of therapists and nurse practitioners who provide confidential, thorough diagnosis, evaluation and treatments that help patients succeed.”

MASTERING SUCCESSION

If you aren’t familiar with the hit HBO series, Succession, you’re truly missing out. A show which first premiered in 2018 has quickly become one of HBO’s most-watched series, winning an astonishing 13 Emmys, including Outstanding Drama Series. Following a family’s power struggle and familial strain as the impending sell of their father’s company approaches, this eye-opening series sheds a harsh light on the negative effects a family business without a succession plan can have. All too familiar with real-life succession realities, Justin Law, MBA, a Wealth Management Advisor in the Bay area, has been helping local business owners down the clear path to succession.

By Caroline Edmondson Headshot Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com

There’s a hard-hitting statistic floating around from The Family Business Consulting Group and more concerning the overall success of family-owned businesses in the United States: only 30% of family businesses make it to the second generation while only an astounding 13% make it to the third generation. And, considering the wealth of family-owned businesses that operate around the Bay area, this can seem quite concerning for their overall survival, especially in a post-pandemic society. More interesting, one of the largest culprits to a failed business succession is the lack of a plan put in place well before the decision to either sell or close arises leaving a business scrambling for a fast, and often rushed, solution.

A professional in his field, Justin Law’s most impactful role as a financial advisor is being aware of the things that his clients don’t see coming and guiding them to the path that will succeed regardless of any “stress factors” that life inevitably presents. Offering both macroeconomic solutions to clients in both the personal planning space as well as the “closely held business owner” planning space. “For my business planning clients, I help with such things as providing turnkey, electronic valuations of entities; designing Business Continuity Instructions; top-line employee retention planning; coordination of business finances with personal finances; and ultimately guidance through exit-planning strategies,” shares Justin. One of Justin’s most prominent exit-planning is “succession planning,” which consists of strategically transitioning some portion of ownership in a closely held business to the “next generation,” which could be someone in the family (such as a child) or it could be a valued employee (such as a top-line executive or manager). But oftentimes, this event entails details that make the navigation of this transition very complicated.

“Most small business owners stay so busy running the day-to-day of their businesses, they rarely take the time to step back and ask the difficult planning questions that a “business planner” would bring to the forefront,” warns Justin. “ For example, maybe there are one or some children who are actively involved in the business…and there are other children who are not actively involved. This creates what is referred to as an ‘estate equalization’ issue. If there is not an adequately written ‘Buy/Sell Agreement’ in place, and if said Agreement is not properly

funded upon triggering events such as death, disability, and divorce a current partner very well could find themselves negotiating with their business partner’s spouse or another family member.”

And just like in Succession, failing to address this type of imperative planning, not only can cause a business to be destroyed, but also families themselves can be divided, In other words, NBAC’s (non-business active children) can develop unrepairable grudges and hostilities against BAC’s (business active children).

So, you might be asking yourself: “When is the best time to plan my exit?” Surprisingly, Justin says the ideal time to plan how you will leave your business is very soon after the business is started! “Most owners have a misconception that they don’t have to worry about these events until they are ready to actually leave their business,” shares Justin. “This could not be further from the truth! By waiting until they are ready to transition out of their business to discuss this event, they are limiting the strategies available to them to prepare for their succession/exit.”

“MOST SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS STAY SO BUSY RUNNING THE DAY-TO-DAY OF THEIR BUSINESSES, THEY RARELY TAKE THE TIME TO STEP BACK AND ASK THE DIFFICULT PLANNING QUESTIONS THAT A “BUSINESS PLANNER” WOULD BRING TO THE FOREFRONT,”

One such failed succession plan involved a father who planned for and funded the transition of the ownership of his business going to his son. “The father unfortunately failed to think about the fact that a large amount of the business debt had a personal guarantee of the exiting father,” Justin recalls. “When the ownership transitioned to the son, the banks then called in the loans with the father’s guarantee on them… since the son’s personal balance sheet did not suffice the guarantees. The lesson being that transitions of ownership stakes in small businesses are not as cut and dry as they may seem on the surface!”

So where does one even start formulating an exit plan?

Justin informs us you have to start with the answers to three very important questions: To whom do you want to sell?

When do you want to sell? For how much do you want to sell? Then, you can gather the supporting documents and thoughtfully devise a plan with a supportive financial advisor such as Justin. And though tensions and stress amongst families can sometimes be high during this transition, Justin works tirelessly to alleviate such stress. “First and foremost, I congratulate prospective clients in this type of situation. In my opinion, they have achieved the ‘True American Dream’—starting and sustaining a closely held small business. They should be commended for getting to the point of transitioning their life’s work to the next generation,” Justin says. “Secondly, I would encourage them that with proper planning techniques this event can be a ‘win-win’ for both the exiting party as well as the next -generation/ purchasing party.”

With a seemingly endless sea of financial advisors at our fingertips, what makes Justin the man for the job? Well, one of two things. First, he’s been in many of his clients’ shoes. Justin himself worked 10 years in a 3rd generation family business that is presently non-existent. “I am a personal testimony to the pitfalls of failing to engage in these types of conversations,” admits Justin. This personal experience is what drives him to help others succeed. Secondly, Justin is a member of the BEI Network of Exit Planning Professionals, which allows him to have alliances with some of the best in the industry. “Exit/Succession planning is and always will be a collaborative effort amongst multiple advisors. It is imperative to engage with an advisor that works well with others, has access to strategic alliances in other fields, and will always put the client’s interests first,” says Justin.

With the proper planning, and the help of an experienced, well-connected advisor, Succession can remain a wellwritten fictional TV drama instead of an unfortunate reality.

Proud builders of the McDonald historic home preservation project.

A PATH to Progress

Known for his dedication to all things Mobile, Karlos Finley doesn’t need an introduction. An established lawyer with a deep family history tied to local civil rights, politics, preservation, and so much more, he’s taken a new role to guide us all towards a better tomorrow. Married to Kelly Finley, and super-star dad to Brik Finley, and bonus-dad to Stephen and Karrington Jones, Karlos is an upstanding citizen with an earned and interesting perspective on the topic of race relations in the Bay Area. The best part? It comes down to listening.

By Hayley Hill Headshot Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com

With the discovery of the Clotilda in the Mobile Delta, the last known U.S. slave ship from 1860, our city has been highlighted in a range of national headlines bringing this long-needed conversation to the forefront of our shores. Quite simply, we’ve been presented with the opportunity to address our history—the good, bad, and ugly. For many, this is a topic that’s been met with a preference for silence or denied as it’s simply too harsh to take a closer look. And then there’s the old standby that it’s just the way it has always been — let’s just leave it alone, look away, and carry on. But we can, and we must, do better. Afterall, is it that hard to simply listen?

When the steps are taken to look a bit deeper, wounds and pain certainly exist. And when speaking with Karlos, one thing becomes clear—we need more open communication and a more informed understanding of our history. “We must know each other to work together towards a better tomorrow. Understanding how we’ve all contributed to our city is important to show that we all have ownership, and that we’re all due a return on the investment we’ve made in this community. It’s important that all are respected for doing their part. This hasn’t been the case historically,” Karlos shares.

It’s important to know addressing systemic racism makes economies stronger. In a recent study, economists state that in the last 20 years, racism has cost the U.S. economy $16 trillion. This is not insignificant as the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) is $21 trillion. Recent local statistics show the race most likely to be in poverty in Mobile is Black, with 33.87% below the poverty line. Over half of our population is Black and those involved feel it’s more than possible to create change that will result in the betterment of our community and for all those calling the Bay Area home.

For Karlos, this begins with the willingness to have a conversation. And this is why the discovery of the Clotilda and the Netflix documentary, Descendant, are so key. Descendent is a culmination of years of work that tells the entwined stories of the search for, and salvaging of, the Clotilda and the experiences of those people’s descendants, many of whom live in Africatown, an enclave north of Mobile. “Born and raised in Mobile, director Margaret Brown was educated on Africatown by my sister Dora. Dora told the story of the Clotilda and the Africans brought to this country illegally in Margaret’s first documentary, The Order of Myths. The team behind Descendant is a vast array of talented individuals that highlight generations of people with indomitable spirits. For my part in the film, I share a legal opinion regarding potential reparations for the descendants of the Africans illegally transported to the United States by Timothy Meaher and Captain William Foster,” he shares.

Clearly seeing a way forward for us all, Karlos says, “This documentary creates an opportunity for a worldwide audience to experience the truth of yet another tragic tale of the transatlantic slave trade, but also an example of how one can never underestimate the will of the human spirit. It’s a story of survival and the ability of a people to adapt,

improvise, and overcome. It’s my greatest hope that this information provides a path to healing for our city, state, and nation. Slavery is the original sin of the United States. If we as a nation could come to the realization that the centuries of the transatlantic slave trade still have an impact on how we live today, it could be instrumental to us in reaching another level of understanding and justice for all. This experience provides an opportunity to do just that.”

Providing a relatable example, Karlos continues, “As a child, medicine didn’t taste good and sometimes I had to get a shot, which was even worse. But after taking my medicine a healing came about and ultimately, I felt better. Peeling back the layers of history is analogous to that experience. It’s better to take the medicine than allow the sickness to continue. And the sooner you take the medicine, the better and less severe the illness!”

Asking Karlos about the rebuttal we’ve overheard, he shares, “The Clotilda is a unique ship. It was not constructed for human cargo. The most accomplished shipwreck divers on the planet, world-renowned scientists, and historians have investigated this wreck site and made the determination that this ship is Clotilda. There will always be naysayers. As to why some wish to refuse to believe the science, we can’t give that energy. We must remain focused on the positive and the opportunity.”

Understanding Descendant is an opportunity for open conversations that would allow healing and growth in conjunction with cultural heritage tourism, the possibilities are endless. As for his part, Karlos shares, “My role in the community is and has been vast. I was an Assistant DA serving to protect the citizens of our county on behalf of the state and as a private attorney, I’ve acted as an advocate for plaintiffs who’ve been injured by the negligence of others. I’ve served as a Mobile Municipal Court Judge ensuring that justice is served in our community and my current and most recent role is as the Executive Director

of the Africatown Redevelopment Corp. (ARC). This role allows me to create opportunities for those who traditionally have not had them and to create transformative change in one of the most historic communities in the world.”

Interestingly, in the 50s Africatown was a community of over 12,000 people. Today under 2,000 call it home. “Created by a legislative act sponsored by state representative Adline Clarke, my new role at ARC is to lead and fulfill our mission to revitalize housing, preserve history, and attract and develop commerce in the Africatown Historic District. We have a nine-member Board of Directors, seven appointed by elected officials, one appointed by The Clotilda Descendants Association, and one by the Africatown Heritage Preservation Foundation. Together, we can be transformative to the community of Africatown and the city of Mobile as a whole. Getting involved is a great way forward for all of us. Anyone can get involved by, of course, contributing financially to the ARC, but we also need boots on the ground help! Our monthly meetings are open to all and held at the Robert L. Hope Center every second Tuesday of the month at 4pm. The Heritage House Museum will open on July 8, 2023. Everyone can come learn this deep history and spread the knowledge of why it is important to know our collective past. We can’t know where we’re going unless we know where we’ve been,” he shares.

Knowing people often turn away from complicated subjects to evade blame or a tough topic, Karlos adds, “When it comes to blame, I see that term as irrelevant or inconsequential 162 years later. I see the relevant discussion revolving around facts and the ability to atone for past desecrations and advantages received coupled with the ability to repair as equitably as possible.”

To maximize the efforts of ARC, it is safe to say that what Karlos and the Africatown community want most is for us all to find the willingness to accept our history and talk about it so we can all move forward together. “We must all realize that for centuries in this country it was not abnormal, nor was it punishable, for white citizens to lynch Black people. The Clotilda Africans and their descendants were cognizant of that fact. From the time of its arrival and into the late 60s, they dare not mention how their ancestors came here publicly, let alone that wealthy Mobile businessman, Timothy Meaher, his brothers, and their descendants, who were held in high regard, were the orchestrators of this illegal act. Let us not forget that Michael Donald, a Black teenage Mobilian, was lynched in Mobile in 1981.”

Curious as to where his insight and passion stem from, Karlos was inspired by generations of his own ancestors. “My great grandmother moved to Mobile in the 1860s. She and her two sons owned a block of land in The Bottom that they farmed and ultimately sub-divided and sold homes built by my grandfather, Johnny Finley. My father, James, and all his siblings, graduated from college and went on to become business owners and/or educators. He and his brother, John, became pharmacists and both owned independent pharmacies; “Finley’s Drugs” and “Finley’s Pharmacy.” From there, my father opened the first chain of African American owned drugstores in the state of Alabama. He ultimately owned seven operations and the one in Happy Hill (Africatown) opened in 1965 on the day I was born!”

And it doesn’t stop there. “Interestingly, my father and his brother married two sisters, Evelyn and Joycelyn, my mother, Franklin. Their father, James A. Franklin, MD, began an Africatown medical practice in 1919, after relocating from Evergreen, AL where he was run out for treating a white woman. Today’s Franklin Primary Health Centers are named in his honor. Also, my mother was the first teacher to teach Black History in the Mobile County Public School System. And my sister Dora created the African American Heritage Trail. I now serve as the President of the organization and my wife and cousins serve as some of its Board of Directors. We are the premier cultural heritage tourism organization in the city and conduct tours highlighting the significant contributions that African Americans have made here,” he shares.

Both of his parents were also civil rights activist in Mobile in the 60s and 70s. “My father was Vice-President of the Neighborhood Organized Workers (NOW) and my sisters, Dora, and Joycelyn, founded the youth civil rights movement. Their organization was called the United Student Action Movement (USAM). I often tagged along and served as a mascot! These organizations changed the way African Americans were viewed, employed, and lived in the city of Mobile,” Karlos shares with pride.

Having recently heard the term “Black sadness,” we ask Karlos for his take. The term explains the angst and sometimes debilitating mind-set brought on by the weight of the historical dehumanization, oppression, and violence against Black and African American people. It’s a term devised to explain the Black experience. Clearly a heavy bag and one that many don’t care to unpack.

His response? “I come from a very proud people that don’t dwell on how bad things are and have been, but rather how to make it better. I have empathy for my brothers and sisters, but there’s too much to be thankful for, and too much to do than to be sad. I have my moments like anyone, but I don’t dwell in them. I’m also a faithful person. When I look at the totality of the circumstances, I’ve come to realize that it’s not the enslaved and former enslaved that need to be felt for,

it’s the one who enslaves! They may enjoy their fruits in this life, but it is the next one that matters to me. It must be a terrible burden and fear one has inside to have to constantly make themselves feel superior to another human being. One who knows they are not inferior does not have to express it or make others feel small to make themselves feel big.”

Concluding that watching Descendent is a great way to start the learning about our history, the stories and truths about survival then and now allow for reflection and a better understanding. And while it’s just over an hour, it becomes clear that the impact of our past is plaguing our present and therefore, our future. And, through ARC opportunities, we now all have a way to pay it forward one person at a time and to become the best we can be as a community.

Blake Bark, VP of Operations

Zach Deas, President

Proud partner of the McDonald historic home preservation project.

DEPRESSION DISCOVERY

With mental health at the forefront of every news cycle, there’s a lot to keep up with. While it can seem daunting at times, if the impact of depression is at the center of your world, there’s hope at last. Mobile’s Dr. Brad Sadler of Southern Psychiatry Associates is beyond elated with the latest treatment options for those searching for a true solution. A local authority on all thing’s psychiatry, he prides himself on bringing the best care options to the Bay area and he’s excited about this one.

By Hayley Hill Photos Stevye Photography, StevyePhotography.com

There’s good news for people with severe Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD). And relief from the debilitating symptoms could be only hours away. Clarifying, TRD occurs when a person has been treated for depression, but their symptoms don’t improve after trying two antidepressants. While taking an antidepressant or going to psychological counseling (psychotherapy) eases depression symptoms for most people, standard treatments aren’t enough for those suffering from TRD.

Esketamine, also called Spravato, is a groundbreaking drug therapy that can quickly provide relief from major depression and is even considered revolutionary by some. Dr. Sadler shares, “Spravato has been game changing for a large segment of my patients that have not responded to typical antidepressant therapy. I’ve been offering this in-office treatment for the past 4 years and have had wonderful success.” Spravato, a mirror image of the anesthetic drug Ketamine, is given in-office where patients are monitored by Dr. Sadler and his capable staff. They monitor blood pressure and other side effects and ensure patients have a ride to and from their office before they can start. While it’s true some people abuse ketamine for illicit use, when it’s used in a REMS certified treatment setting with medical monitoring, it’s very different. And the patients never have access to the drug as it’s only administered in compliance in a therapeutic setting.

Interestingly, research suggests that untreated depression may be associated with long-term damage to certain areas of the brain and is associated with an increased risk of dementia. Studies show that people with depression could have up to 20% shrinkage of the hippocampus, a region of the brain critical for memory and learning. Esketamine likely works by encouraging neurons to grow and proliferate in conjunction with an antidepressant.

“SPRAVATO HAS BEEN GAME CHANGING FOR A LARGE SEGMENT OF MY PATIENTS THAT HAVE NOT RESPONDED TO TYPICAL ANTIDEPRESSANT THERAPY.  I’VE BEEN OFFERING THIS IN-OFFICE TREATMENT FOR THE PAST 4 YEARS AND HAVE HAD WONDERFUL SUCCESS.”

This is good news considering that an estimated 30.9% out of the 8.9 million adults taking depression medications have TRD — that’s a staggering 2.8 million people. Esketamine, and its related drug ketamine, are highly effective depression treatments for several reasons. “There are very few treatments available that have shown efficacy in people with Treatment-Resistant Depression. I’m very happy to notate that I’ve had immense success with this population and the use of esketamine has been truly incredible. Most of my patients that have started esketamine treatment have responded, and some have even gone into remission from depression — this is truly amazing,” Dr. Sadler shares.

Major Depressive Disorder (MMD), or clinical depression, affects how a person feels, thinks, and behaves and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. For example, those suffering MMD may have trouble doing normal day-to-day activities, and sometimes feel as if life isn’t worth living. A recent U.S. study estimated the total annual burden of medication treated MDD among the US population was $92.7 billion, with $43.8 billion attributable to TRD. Concluding that TRD is associated with disproportionate health care costs and unemployment, the study clearly suggests there can be large economic and societal gains with effective management.

Esketamine’s antidepressant function works through a different mechanism than other drugs. Conventional antidepressants increase levels of naturally occurring chemicals such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. These chemicals are messengers that relay communication between brain cells. The theory is that having greater quantities of these neurotransmitters allows for better communication between brain cells and positively affects mood.

Esketamine works in a similar fashion, but unlike other antidepressants it increases levels of glutamate, the most abundant chemical messenger in the brain. The result? Glutamate likely increases the brainderived neurotrophic factor which is key in helping neurons grow and recover from depression. “This is the very first treatment approved for depression that has worked in this manner. I believe it’s the new paradigm by which we will begin to treat depression and there are more exciting drugs like this coming down the pipeline,” Dr. Sadler adds.

The only other approved drug therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression is a combination of olanzapine (an antipsychotic drug) and fluoxetine (a conventional antidepressant). However, this treatment has significant long-term effects that include substantial weight gain, metabolic changes, diabetes, and high blood pressure. “Esketamine has no effect on weight and has no sexual side effects. Most of the side effects of esketamine resolve by the time the patient leaves the office after treatment,” Dr. Sadler says.

When compared to common antidepressants, esketamine can immediately impact brain cells, offering relief from depressive symptoms within hours, where traditional antidepressants often take several weeks to make a noticeable difference, if any. Up to 33% of people with depression don’t respond to multiple kinds of conventional antidepressants. Esketamine reduces depression symptoms in most of these people in clinical trials. “My patients have been so thankful to receive this treatment. It’s amazing to hear the positive stories from the patients and their families in relation to the experience and improvement after starting Spravato therapy,” Dr. Sadler happily concludes.

Southern Psychiatry Associates

3737 Government Boulevard, Suite 203, Mobile 3501 Gulf Shores Parkway, Gulf Shores 251.300.7134

SouthernPsychiatry.net

“THIS IS THE VERY FIRST TREATMENT APPROVED FOR DEPRESSION THAT HAS WORKED IN THIS MANNER. I BELIEVE IT’S THE NEW PARADIGM BY WHICH WE WILL BEGIN TO TREAT DEPRESSION AND THERE ARE MORE EXCITING DRUGS LIKE THIS COMING DOWN THE PIPELINE.”

COCKTAIL KING

In the name of summer fun, we caught up with Matt LeMond, the brains behind everyone’s favorite go-to social spots for the upcoming seasons not-to-miss fun. From drag brunches to whiffle ball, he and his team are busy filling the calendar with cool events for the oh-so hot summer days and nights. And we’ll definitely drink to that!

Greetings!

If you’re looking to head to downtown Mobile, this is the perfect time of year as it’s less crowded and local businesses are offering good time opportunities for everyone. For starters, kick up your heels with us on June 1st at POST Crafted Cocktails & Wine Bar for a Toast to Pride and wine tasting special event. Get your tickets early on our Facebook events page as this is a colorful favorite of fun-seekers near and far. If you can’t make it, get tickets for our famous Drag Brunch on June 17th. We’re also planning themed evenings each Wednesday that will feature surprise guest artists, too. Be sure to hit up our Instagram for details.

For the runners and Lululemon brand fans, we’re celebrating National Run Day on June 7th with a 5K through a downtown course that leads to the after party in the O’Daly’s Irish Pub courtyard, complete with prizes and more. If you prefer a slower pace, join us for a classic game of whiffle ball every Tuesday. Just a few steps away, we’re holding Jam Nights at Cedar Street Social every Tuesday at 5:00 PM and if you’re a whiskey fan, don’t miss the ticketed whiskey tasting on June 22nd. On the same property, test your Trivia skills at Insider Food Hall every Wednesday, too.

Moving West, POST on the Hill will celebrate the season with all you can eat crawfish for just $10 per person every other Tuesday! Wash them down a glass of vino from our extensive wine list or a hand-crafted summer cocktail boasting refreshing hints of citrus and herbs as you mingle the night away at everyone’s favorite new spot. If you’re in pursuit of the fit-club-life, lace up and join the Post on the Hill (POTH) Run Club with Mobile’s own Run N Tri specialty shop every other Wednesday. Also, be sure not to miss our Lululemon yoga event on June 21st in honor of International Day of Yoga. And yes, there will be prizes! Find all the details on our Facebook and Instagram pages, too.

Lastly, if you’re looking to host a private affair, schedule a cocktail class at POST downtown with the always entertaining cocktail expert extraordinaire, Tyler Sayers. A local favorite, he’ll guide you through a customized class that combines fun facts you’ve probably never heard, great bites and of course, killer cocktails.

THE WELLNESS WHISPERER

By Sydney Wasdin

Hello,!

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects 1 in every 100 adults in the United States whose symptoms appear in a variety of ways. One commonly associated issue is Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRB), a common issue related to normal gooming habits that is rarely discussed in the general public. For those that struggle with clinical symptoms of BFRBs, day-to-day life can become overwhelming, painful, and oftentimes mentally and physically draining.

Often characterized as a type of OCD, Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors present and operate quite differently than traditional OCD, despite often co-occurring with OCD and anxiety disorders. The two most common are Trichotillomania and Dermatillomania or Excoriation, both of which I treat. These self-grooming routines can be conscious and/or unconscious behaviors that are extremely difficult to control including pulling, picking, biting, and scraping one’s hair, skin, and nails.

To break it down even further, those suffering from Trichotillomania have an uncontrollable desire to pull out or break their own hair from various body cites. This can often leads to bald spots and patches, sores, ingrown hair due to damage caused to the hair follicles. This negatively affect your self-esteem as the missing patches of hair can become quite noticeable, exacerbating an already shame-driven condition. Oftentimes, those suffering from this particular disorder avoid treatment of all kinds for this issue because of the feeling of shame and embarrassment associated with the behavior.

Another type of BFRB, Excoriation, otherwise known as Dermatillomania, is when a person compulsively picks or scratches at their own skin or nails. Now, this is far more than someone picking at a hangnail, this condition often is an automatic movement or habit that is hard to stop once it’s started but can lead to scarring, infections and painful ingrown nails.

Many clients have tried several times to quit these habits without success and then find themselves discouraged by relapse if able to stop and for others the issue is the lack of desire to stop in the first place, all motivated by the little known or recognized neurobiological effects of these behaviors in the body. Factors motivating these behaviors can be cognitive, affective, environmental, motoric or sensory-driven, which truly requires a multifaceted approach. The good news is, treatment is possible and we’re here to help. It all starts with a calming, supportive and shame-free environment with a qualified and trained provider that will employ a variety of different interventions to address the motivators and behaviors themselves that also specifically consider the individual person. With motivation and qualified help, clients can make the changes they need and take charge of their lives again!

We are constantly in awe of the many success stories we hear about patients of Sydney Wasdin M.Ed., LPC, NCC, RYT. Her love of learning and helping inspires her in continuing education pursuits, most recently taking a deep dive into Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and related disorders, such as Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors.

pink table talk

Ialways like to be ahead of the curve. While thumbing through the most recent issue of Southern Living, I was horrified to see southern legend and author, Rick Bragg’s latest contribution titled, “Beware of the Boat Drinks” — the very topic I’ve been pursuing! Having asked my friends about their favorite summer boat drinks since the first warm spell, my initial thought was, “who told Mr. Bragg what I was writing about?!” I felt violated that my confidants would have shared my genius idea, and furthermore, that he would poach it! So, with white knuckles I began to read only to discover Mr. Bragg is a self-professed “nondrinking man!” After choking down some humble pie, I got back to work on my story.

Not sure if you ‘ve noticed, but the modest margarita is having a moment. In major cities, domestically as well as in Europe, I keep noticing the beautiful people are ordering them. I love a spicy marg on a hot day, but they require several ingredients and may be a little messy to whip up while zipping across Mobile Bay. Enter the viral TikTok recipe — this hack is liquid gold. Use 2/3 of a bottle of Simply Limeade, add 1 whole sliced jalapeño, 1 sliced lime, and fill the rest of the Limeade bottle with tequila. Steep in the fridge overnight and you’ve got a portable piñata party! Another favorite “secret recipe” is the Tres Agaves organic Mango Chili Margarita Mix. Available in several flavors, just add your favorite tequila, shake, and pour over ice. It’s a great cheat!

Summer means time on the water, and this month our Southern influencer, Charlotte Kilborn Carey, preps us for boating cocktails! So, if you’re a planning to be a passenger or make waves with your friends, be sure to peruse her thirstquenching favorites. From mixes to quick fixes, she had us at grapefruit.

If you tried to convince my younger self that one day I’d like grapefruit, I would have scoffed. It was an unappetizing citrus my parents ate for breakfast with a weird spoon. Years later, adult me was introduced to the Paloma. A riff on the traditional margarita, it’s a little less sweet due to the addition of soda water. Truly summer in a glass — or plastic weekend Waterford. For an easy version, head to Interwoven in Fairhope and grab a bottle of the El Guapo Paloma mix. Hand-crafted in New Orleans, just add tequila. They also have an amazing Mojito mix. If like me, you too have discovered a penchant for grapefruit, you must try the Schofferhofer Grapefruit Hefeweizen beer. While minding my own business on a photo shoot with the owners of Tap and Pour, I noticed these cute pink drinks stuffed in their adorable pink cooler. When they suggested I give it a try, it had me at hello! Libation perfection, find it at Publix sometimes, and always at World Market.

I would be remiss if I left out the easiest and most portable gold standards — the High Noon and the White Claw. Surprisingly, I enjoy both, but you may need to figure out your favorite flavor as some are better than others. I hope you all have a happy, healthy, and relaxing summer season filled with pink sunsets and pink boat cocktails. As for myself, I’m not ashamed to admit that occasionally, this mama needs a Claw.

XOXO

CHARLOTTE’S PALOMA RECIPE

• 1 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice

• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

• 2 TB simple syrup

• 1 cup good quality blanco tequila

• 1 cup club soda

• optional garnishes* kosher salt, grapefruit slices,lime slices

TWO OLD FASHIONED FRIENDS