43 minute read
OBSERVATIONS
Coming To A Neighborhood Near You
Urban streets and music festivals were once the exclusive hosts for food trucks. The pandemic, however, pushed these restaurants-onwheels into suburban enclaves, and residents and cooks alike aren’t looking back.
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text by MARISSA DEAL
It is 6:30 p.m. on a midsummer evening. On these protracted days, daylight lingers, and the heat of the day begins to dissipate, luring folks out to their yards and porches to make the most of this precious time before the sky grows ablaze with red and orange, eventually falling into darkness. Commuters heading home peer out their windows to assess their dinner options. A line has already formed outside Will’s Farm Fresh Food Truck. The air around it is tinged with smoke, and the smell of short ribs and Conecuh sausage cooking on the grill wafts down the street. While the sight of a food truck parked along the sidewalk may conjure an image of a busy urban thoroughfare, this scene unfolds not in a major city but the residential neighborhood of Old Field in Daphne.
Bright pink azaleas bloom along the entrance to the neighborhood’s communal areas. A father and son arrive on bikes, and join a cluster of their neighbors. Other families lay claim to their spots, putting down picnic blankets and settling in for a leisurely meal. Neighbors zigzag to the truck, placing orders, chatting, and watching pig-tailed little girls in gingham summer dresses twirl on the sidewalk. Three older boys toss a baseball on the newly
mowed lawn behind the truck, shouting and laughing. The neighborhood pool, adjacent to the truck, is also full of families with children laughing and splashing. The kids who are still awaiting dinner eye them, yearning and restless to join in. Grownups survey the menu. While the everything looks enticing, there are whispers that the short rib tacos are not to be missed.
Two days later, a similar scene unfolds down the road in the Jubilee Farms subdivision. And two days after that, across
– Sarah Wortham
the Bay in Sierra Estates. Food trucks have become deeply entwined in the daily lives of suburban families across Baldwin and Mobile counties. Weeknights remain the most popular; however, families also spill out of their homes on weekend mornings, often still in pajamas, for fresh hot doughnuts from The Lil Doughnut Factory and beignets heaped with powdered sugar and dunked in hot caramel sauce from Mo’ Bay Beignet. Food trucks fit so perfectly in a suburban landscape, it’s surprising it has taken this long for them to gain traction.
The history of food trucks mirrors the landscape of Baldwin and Mobile counties, both evolving to meet the changing needs of the population. The earliest American iteration of the modern food truck was the Chuckwagon, which served easily preserved food, such as beans and salted meats, to loggers and cowboys of the Texas panhandle. The “cookies” who manned the Chuckwagons also served as makeshift dentists, barbers and bankers. Food trucks did foray into the suburbs with the popularity of ice cream trucks in the 1950s. However, throughout the 1970s and ’80s, food trucks primarily operated in dense urban environments, with convenience, as opposed to the quality of the food, being the primary focus. During this era, perhaps unfairly, food trucks were referred to as “roach coaches” due to patrons’ fears of poor sanitation and low-quality ingredients. Despite their reputation, food trucks provided easy, affordable access to a hot meal in large cities and construction sites around the U.S.
Food trucks today are quite different, featuring innovative menus with an array of gourmet and ethnic options, often using fresh local ingredients and farm-fresh meats. Popularity has grown rapidly in the U.S. in recent years, from 8,677 food trucks registered in 2011 to 35,212 in 2022. Unlike many other businesses impacted negatively by the COVID pandemic, food trucks have had a 12.1 percent growth average from
WACKED OUT WEINER WILL HUGHES OF WILL’S FARM FOODS
PHOTO BY ELIZABETH GELINEAU PHOTO BY ELIZABETH GELINEAU
BLEUS BURGER
PHOTO BY ELIZABETH GELINEAU LITH’S ASIAN CUISINE
year to year since 2016. Entire food truck parks and festivals have emerged in major cities. The Mobile area, with its pleasant climate year-round and abundance of local ingredients available, proves to be an excellent market for this type of al fresco dining.
In Baldwin County, the catalyst for this food truck migration into the suburbs was the COVID pandemic. Will Hughes, owner of Will’s Farm Foods, says that when the pandemic struck, many of the traditional venues for food trucks disappeared, practically overnight. Gone were the festivals, weddings, parades and art shows that provided a built-in customer base. Food truck owners were forced to adapt or go out of business. “We opened for business February 1, 2020, and a month later, COVID hit,” Crystal Schieber, owner of Chew Chew Truck, explains. “All the events we’d lined up were canceled, and we were so thankful that we were a kitchen on wheels because we were able to take our passion for great food, cooked fresh and on site, where people wanted food.”
“We barely knew food truck life before COVID, so we were learning our business and COVID at the same time,” she adds. “When we were serving in the neighborhoods, everyone was happy and excited to see us. Somehow, life felt OK. You saw communities bonding, families interacting with each other and kids being kids.”
Back in Old Field, though most restaurants have reopened, the community continues to turn out, socialize and support the local food trucks. “The food here is great and so convenient,” says Marianne Hill as she waits with her teenage son who’s still wearing his school uniform. “I even had food cooking at home, but we had to come anyway.”
Further ahead, Sarah Wortham stands, still in her work scrubs holding her young daughter in her arms. “It’s just so nice to pull in at 5 o’clock and know that dinner is ready,” she explains. “Sometimes we stop at home first, and we all ride our bikes over.”
Although many of the patrons of the trucks are residents of the neighborhood, there are also customers driving from other locales. The popularity of certain local food trucks has created a loyal following of “food truck groupies.” The rise of social media has enabled food trucks to announce their locations in advance,
PHOTO BY ELIZABETH GELINEAU
– Crystal Schieber, owner, Chew Chew Truck
allowing operators to communicate with the people who love them. Chace Yamagata, founder of the popular Baldwin County Foodies Facebook page, recently branched out to create a Baldwin County Food Truck page where people can find out about the various trucks around the Mobile Bay area and follow their favorite trucks to different neighborhoods and beyond. “I love food trucks, and I know I’m not alone in that,” he says. “I wanted to create a site that makes it easier to stay informed on the weekly schedules and updates on all the trucks.” During the height of the pandemic, food trucks came to neighborhood residents, and those same neighborhood residents now come to the trucks.
Regardless of the next development, the heart of the food truck movement is providing eats that are fresh, local and affordable. Abbey Graves, owner of the Wacked Out Weiner truck which she franchised out from their brick-andmortar location, sums it up best. “Food trucks provide a delicious and affordable meal that everyone in the family can enjoy.”
Wortham, who now has her food in hand and her daughter at her side, agrees. “It’s been so nice talking to you,” she says. “I think I’m going to get back in line and get something else. This all just looks so good.” MB
DENVER PERSINGER
2022 graduate Spanish Fort High School
Wrestler and Advocate
F WHY HE ROCKS During his six years wrestling for Spanish Fort High School, Denver has made it to the individual state championships four consecutive times and has been a team captain for two years. He has received many accolades, including the Hardest Worker award three times and the Academic Achievement award three times. Denver won the Wetumpka individual tournament and placed second at the annual Swede Umbach Invitational.
F OFF THE MAT When he’s not wrestling, Denver runs One More Moment, the nonprofit he and his mother founded. “During my sister’s battle with mental health, we came to the shocking realization that there are surprisingly few resources to help us navigate how to help her,” he explains. “We hope to give not only a plethora of resources to the families of teens in crisis but also a means to connect them with other parents facing similar struggles to show them they are not alone.” F FUTURE PLANS Denver plans to attend the University of Denver this fall to pursue a double major in computer science and business management. F BIGGEST INFLUENCE “My parents are the biggest influences in my life,” he says. “They have constantly shown me the importance of hard work and how, no matter what, I should pursue a career I have genuine love and joy for. I give credit for everything I do to them.”
VICTORIA BLAKLEY
2022 graduate Davidson High School
Lead Ballerina
F WHY SHE ROCKS Victoria began dancing 15 years ago and has been focusing on ballet for the past nine years. Last year, she was cast as Tiana in Mobile Ballet’s production of “The Princess and the Frog,” making her the fi rst African-American to dance a lead role in a Mobile Ballet original production. “Younger dancers looking up to me motivate me to never stop doing what I do,” she says. F OFF THE STAGE When she’s not working hard in class or wowing the audience in ballet performances, Victoria enjoys learning more about the different aspects of cosmetology. “Specifi cally, nails interest me,” she says. F FUTURE PLANS Victoria will complete her college training in the Alonzo King LINES Ballet B.F.A. program at the Dominican University of California. “I hope to be a part of a nationally known dance company once I’ve completed my college courses,” she says. F BIGGEST INFLUENCE “Everyone who has supported me through not only school but all of the dance conventions, master classes or simply giving me a ride to dance,” she says. “All of my teachers have really made an impact on me, and I continuously thank them for all the motivation and corrections that have gotten me where I am now.”
WILLIAM JAMESON
2022 graduate St. Paul’s Episcopal School
Scholar Athlete
F WHY HE ROCKS William made waves — the good kind — as a swimmer for St. Paul’s Episcopal School. He has been selected as an All-State swimmer every year in high school and contributed to a new all-time, all-classification state record in the 200yard medley relay in 2020 for his alma mater’s varsity swim team. He was recently a class winner of the Larry Striplin Jr. Scholar-Athlete award, given to seniors who excel in both athletics and academics.
F OUT OF THE POOL Swimming isn’t the only athletic arena William is involved in; he runs track and field for St. Paul’s as well. He is also gifted in academics. He was the valedictorian of the Class of 2022, a National Merit finalist and made a perfect score on the AP English Language and Composition Exam, one out of only 11 students around the world to do so.
F FUTURE PLANS William has been accepted into the Air Force Academy and spent the summer training at boot camp. He hopes to continue swimming at the Air Force Academy and ultimately aims to become an Air Force officer and pilot, with ambitions of flying F-35s. F BIGGEST INFLUENCE William lists his parents as his biggest motivators. “They have always supported me and encouraged me to try my best.”
RANDY TYRONE STEWART
12th Grade LeFlore High School
JROTC Leader
F WHY HE ROCKS Since starting JROTC during his freshman year, Staff Sargent Randy has quickly moved up the ranks, winning several accolades along the way. Recently, he was the recipient of the Howard Johnson Jr. award, which is given to a cadet who exhibits outstanding character. He has also received the Superior Cadet award — three times! — as well as the Mobile Area Chamber of Commerce Outstanding Army JROTC award and the Super Kids honor. Randy is on track to become a battalion commander next year. F AT EASE Besides being a standout in JROTC, Randy is involved in the psychology club at school and assists with a variety of different service projects. His favorite subject is science. “Chemistry, to be more specific,” he explains. In his free time, he enjoys gaming. F FUTURE PLANS After graduating high school, Randy plans to enlist in the Army Reserves while attending college to further explore his love of science. “I intend on majoring in chemistry and eventually become a chemist,” he says. F BIGGEST INFLUENCE Lieutenant Colonel Robert Barrow, director of army instructors, and First Sergeant Bruce Smith, an instructor who recently retired, are Randy’s JROTC role models. “LTC Barrow basically runs all the events,” Randy says, “and 1SG Smith was my instructor for two years. He gave me that little push to get involved.”
KAITLYNN AIKIN
2022 graduate Daphne High School
Automotive Technician
F WHY SHE ROCKS Since fi rst taking an automotive class at the North Baldwin Center for Technology (NBTech) in the fall of 2020, Kaitlynn has earned several distinctions. She was the fi rst female from NBTech to compete in automotive technology for Skills USA, coming in fi fth in the district and seventh in the state. She was also awarded Outstanding Club Member for Automotive at NBTech and Outstanding Student for Automotive at NBTech. “I am very competitive and want to know as much as I can,” she says. F OUT OF THE SHOP When she’s not working, Kaitlynn enjoys pole vaulting, track and fi eld, archery and swimming. She also dabbles in painting and various arts and crafts activities.
F FUTURE PLANS Kaitlynn is enrolled at Universal Technical Institute in Dallas to study diesel technology. “After school, I would either like to work at a dealership or go work on an oil rig,” she says. F BIGGEST INFLUENCE Kaitlynn lists Kelli Adkins, a counselor at NBTech, as her role model. “She was always very supportive of me and saw something I didn’t see in myself,” she says. “She helped me grow as a person and guided me to where I am today. Because of her, I try to live every day with the positivity that she has!”
DAVID KLIMJACK
2022 graduate Bayside Academy
Math and Science Whiz
F WHY HE ROCKS Not everyone knows an extensive amount about roller coasters, but, then again, David Klimjack is not everyone. His enthusiasm for roller coasters began when he rode The Hulk at Universal Studios in 2015. Since then, he has immersed himself in the subject and built more than 40 of his own through a virtual program. “I really want to create something that you look at and think, ‘Wow, that could actually be built in a theme park and people would really love it,’” he says. F OFF THE RAILS When he’s not riding — or virtually building — roller coasters, David focuses on music. “I have played the piano for 12 years,” he says. He’s also an avid chess player and has been the captain of his school’s team for four years. F FUTURE PLANS David will attend Emory University in Atlanta in the fall to pursue a major in either biochemistry or neuroscience. He plans on attending medical school after his undergraduate years and will use his summer to connect with doctors to see how the medical world works. “And, of course, my family and I will make our way down to Orlando to visit the parks!” he adds.
F BIGGEST INFLUENCE “My parents are the defi nitive infl uence in my life,” he says. “I really believe the way that they raised me in this caring and supportive manner has shaped who I am.”
JAKAYLA ARMSTRONG
2022 graduate Murphy High School
Eagle Scout
F WHY SHE ROCKS One day, at church, Fredrick Young, a troop leader of Scouts BSA, approached Jakayla about joining the church’s troop. She had past experience in the Girl Scouts and advanced quickly through the program, making history by becoming the first female African-American Eagle Scout in Alabama. For her Eagle Scout project, Jakayla chose to create care packages for 33 residents at Wilmer Hall Children’s Home. “I chose Wilmer Hall to shine a light on their organization,” she says. F OUT OF THE WOODS In her free time, Jakayla enjoys working, getting her hair, lashes, and nails done as often as she can and traveling. “Experiencing new places and meeting people will never get old to me,” she says. F FUTURE PLANS In the fall, Jakayla will be attending the University of Alabama to major in kinesiology. “My goal is to get my doctorate in physical therapy after completing undergrad,” she explains. “With my doctorate, I want to become a sports physical therapist.” F BIGGEST INFLUENCE “I watch my mom daily strive to provide a great life for our family,” she says. “Watching how hard she works for me really pushes me to go above and beyond and be the best version of myself.”
JAHKOBE SHAW
2022 graduate Williamson High School
Football and Classroom Standout
F WHY HE ROCKS Jahkobe Shaw is a running back and wide receiver on the football team at Williamson High School. He made the all-star team in both the 11th and 12th grades and averaged 1,000 yards in the regular season. His accomplishments on the field led him to win the Player of the Week award, and, unsurprisingly, he leads his teammates as team captain. F OFF THE FIELD A strong student with a 4.3 GPA, Jahkobe was valedictorian for the Class of 2022 at Williamson. When it comes down to balancing sports, life and school, his process is simple: “I just make a schedule on a piece of paper or calendar and make sure I get my work done early before Friday nights,” he says. He also enjoys playing video games, fixing devices and filming YouTube videos in his free time.
F FUTURE PLANS Jahkobe plans on attending the University of South Alabama in the fall to pursue a major in computer science. He also intends to be a walk-on for the Jaguars football team. F BIGGEST INFLUENCE Jahkobe’s big brother Jahquinton, who also played football at Williamson, is the person Jahkobe turns to when he needs advice. “He guides me through everything I do,” he says.
WILLIAM NEUMANN
12th Grade UMS-Wright Preparatory School
Politico
F WHY HE ROCKS When William saw an opportunity to intern with Sandy Stimpson’s re-election campaign, he jumped at the chance to further explore his passion for politics, which was sparked by the 2016 presidential race. Since then, he has branched out to become involved with the campaigns of Katie Britt and Kay Ivey. “I have a consistent desire to make an impact on my community, my country and the world,” he says. F OFF THE
CAMPAIGN TRAIL
William has been a Student Government Association representative for UMS since the 9th grade and is the founder and president of the Worldly Discussions Club. When he isn’t busy with school and work, William likes to play tennis, ride his bike, listen to podcasts and read. “I go to the tennis court many times a week and enjoy competing in tournaments, when possible,” he says. F FUTURE PLANS He plans to study international relations in college. And, if you see William’s name on the ballot in the not-so-distant future, don’t be surprised. “I want to run for offi ce one day,” he adds. “Hopefully at a national level.” F BIGGEST INFLUENCE My dad is the embodiment of hard work and selfl essness,” he says. “I try to follow his moral compass in everything I do. He has shown me that anyone with a good work ethic, selfl essness and a positive attitude can succeed.”
JULIA GRINSTEAD
12th Grade McGill-Toolen Catholic High School
F WHY SHE ROCKS What does Julia not do? She is part of McGill’s Aquinas program, on her school’s HiQ / Scholars Bowl team, vice-captain of the physics team, a member of McGill’s varsity soccer team and plays club soccer for Mobile United. She is also an Azalea Trail Maid and volunteers teaching middle schoolers at her parish. To top it all off, Julia received a perfect 36 on her ACT and 1450 on her PSAT. She is currently ranked first in her class at McGill.
F OUT OF THE CLASSROOM In her rare free time, Julia plays soccer and enjoys watching sports. “I am a huge Alabama fan,” she says. “My dad and I watch nearly every football game together, whether it be on our couch at home or from my phone while riding to a soccer game.” F FUTURE PLANS Julia has been attending the U.S. Air Force Academy and U.S. Naval Academy seminars this summer. “I’ve developed an interest in attending the service academies, but they are a huge commitment,” she says. “I am going to the summer seminars to see if I enjoy the lifestyle the students there experience.” F BIGGEST INFLUENCE “I’ve known so many inspirational people, but the biggest influence is definitely my dad,” she says. “He has been my role model since I was very young. We spend a lot of time together, and he’s both my biggest fan and toughest critic.”
MCGOWIN GRINSTEAD
2022 graduate McGill-Toolen Catholic High School
F WHY SHE ROCKS With a 4.43 GPA and a 34 on her ACT, McGowin’s hard work is evident — and so are its rewards. The AP Scholar with Honors and member of the Aquinas Academy at McGill-Toolen Catholic High School has been admitted to Harvard University. “God is always my every motivation,” she says, “but I also think it’s important to work hard for the people who have supported me, for my parents who have made all of this possible, and for my teachers and friends who have always wanted to see me succeed.”
F OUT OF THE CLASSROOM In her spare time, McGowin writes poetry. Her writing has been featured in her school’s literary magazine, Ingenium, where she is a staff member, and has won multiple awards. F FUTURE PLANS Considering her talent for writing, it isn’t a surprise that McGowin has plans to major in English when she begins college in the fall. “I hope to one day enter law school or work for a publishing company,” she says. “And, of course, move back to the South!”
F BIGGEST INFLUENCE “Anyone who knows me knows I absolutely adore my little brother,” she says, “and my sister, Julia, is probably my favorite person to talk to about anything. My twin sister, Milligan, and I are also very close — you’ve never met anyone sweeter than Milligan.”
MILLIGAN GRINSTEAD
2022 graduate McGill-Toolen Catholic High School
F WHY SHE ROCKS Milligan’s academic achievements are some for the books. She is a National Merit finalist, scored a 35 on her ACT and is the valedictorian of the Class of 2022 at McGillToolen Catholic High School. She is a member of the National Honor Society, and, in her junior year, she won the Rensselaer Medal, which is awarded to the top junior in mathematics and science student as chosen by the faculty. She was also one of the two winners of the Rotary Club of Mobile Student of the Week scholarship. “My family’s support and encouragement are so motivating,” she says. F OUT OF THE CLASSROOM In addition to working hard on academics, Milligan plays classical piano and competitive tennis. “I have been playing piano since first grade,” she says. “I’ve been on McGill’s tennis team since seventh grade and on varsity for 11th and 12th grades.” F FUTURE PLANS Milligan, along with her sister McGowin, has been accepted into Harvard University in the fall. “I plan to major in mathematics,” she says. “I’m still open to possibilities, but I am considering becoming a college professor. After tutoring peers in math and physics, I realized I find joy in teaching.” F BIGGEST INFLUENCE Milligan designates her mom as her role model. “Her work ethic and her loving care for our family is simply inspiring,” she says.
AARON COVIN
12th Grade Murphy High School
Jazz Prodigy
F WHY HE ROCKS Aaron has made the Alabama All-State Band’s Red Band, its highest-ranking, several times and performed as part of the All-State Jazz Band. Currently, he is the principal trumpet player for the Mobile Symphony Youth Orchestra and the Jazz Studio. Recently, Aaron became a member of the iconic Excelsior Brass Band, with whom he played his fi rst show when he was around 13. “I think it’s an honor to be in at such a young age, considering how long they’ve been around,” he says. F OFF THE STAGE Aaron’s musical talents aren’t limited to trumpet; he also enjoys playing the piano. Other skills include photography and fi lmmaking, and he even managed a news website for a short amount of time. “I like to keep myself busy,” he explains. F FUTURE PLANS In the next couple of years, Aaron plans to go to college to study journalism or fi lmmaking, two interests that he would like to explore. F BIGGEST INFLUENCE “My father, easily,” Aaron says. “I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am now if it weren’t for him.” In fact, Aaron originally wanted to play saxophone, but when his dad brought home a trumpet on “take it or leave it” terms, Aaron picked it up, and the rest is history. MB
Baldwin Bone & Joint, P.C.
BALDWIN BONE & JOINT IS A GROUP OF BOARD-CERTIFIED, FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS WITH OFFICE LOCATIONS IN DAPHNE, BAY MINETTE, FOLEY AND ATMORE.
E. RHETT HUBLEY, M.D. JOHN L. TODD, M.D. GEORGE A. CORBETT, M.D.
MICHAEL A. CHAMBLEE, M.D. CHARLES GORDON JR., M.D. PAUL B. CANALE, M.D. ANDY HARCOURT, M.D. MATTHEW GOLDMAN, M.D.
WILLIAM I. PARK IV, M.D. ALLISON HUNTER, M.D. RICHARD WEBB, MD MATTHEW POLLARD, MD
PATRICK DUNN, PA-C SHIREEN KNOWLES, CRNP ELIZABETH “HILL” LUSCHER, CRNP KRISTY BARRENTINE, ACNP-BC KALEIGH HORNBERGER, CRNP HANNAH DUNN, PA-C HOLLY SCOTT, CRNP AMADEE STOKLEY, PA-C
RACHAEL HARTMAN, DPT MICHELLE CADDEN, DPT KELLEY PATTON, PT
BALDWIN BONE & JOINT
1505 Daphne Avenue, Daphne 251-625-2663 baldwinboneandjoint.com
What is your mission?
At Baldwin Bone and Joint, our mission is to provide compassionate, comprehensive orthopaedic care to help our patients get “back in the game” of an active, healthy lifestyle free from pain and limitations.
What sets your practice apart?
For more than 30 years, our team of fellowship-trained, board-certified surgeons and experienced clinical sta have been committed to providing each patient with leading-edge orthopaedic care in an environment where each individual and their family members are given time to ask questions and discuss their concerns. In addition, with patient-centered care and convenience in mind, we o er on-site MRI and digital X-ray service, physical therapy services, as well as telehealth appointments. At Baldwin Bone and Joint, our goal is that our patients and their families will notice the di erence the moment they walk through our doors.
How has your practice grown?
Currently, our specialized clinics include e Spine Institute, e Center for Sports Medicine, e Shoulder Center, the Osteo Health Clinic and Workers Compensation Services. We have also recently added a fellowship-trained pain management specialist to our team of twenty-two licensed medical providers. We have also expanded our reach to include o ces in Daphne, Foley, Bay Minette and Atmore. Baldwin Bone & Joint is now the largest full-time orthopaedic practice in Baldwin County. Our vision for the future is to continue to build our practice with a team of sub-specialty trained surgeons who provide multi-specialty orthopaedic services covering all facets of orthopaedic care—allowing our fellow residents of south Alabama and the Gulf Coast to receive quality care near home.
Harris, board certi ed in Cardiovascular Medicine, as the newest member of the team. Dr. Harris graduated from University of Mississippi School of Medicine and has over 25 years of experience.
Is there anything else we should know about your practice? We also have a clinical trial research division that patients can participate in. Clinical trials are conducted for many reasons: to determine whether a new drug or device is safe and e ective for people to use, to study di erent ways to use standard treatments or currently approved treatments so that they will be more e ective, easier to use, or decrease certain side e ects, and to learn how to safely use a treatment in a population for which the treatment was not previously tested. Clinical trials are at the heart of all medical advances. Treatments might be new drugs or new combinations of drugs, new surgical procedures or devices, or new ways to use existing treatments. e goal is to determine if a new test or treatment works and is safe, also improving the quality of life for people with chronic illnesses. We currently have several active trials covering Congestive Heart Failure, Hypercholesterolemia, and Coronary Artery Disease.
Michael S. Pursley, MD, FACC Michael S. Charles, CRNP
HEART GROUP OF THE EASTERN SHORE, PC
150 South Ingleside Street, Building 4, Fairhope 251-990-1920 • HeartGroupES.com
Sunrise Dermatology
Dermatology & Skin Cancer Surgery Center
SUNRISE DERMATOLOGY IS A FULL-SERVICE DERMATOLOGY PRACTICE FOUNDED IN 2011 BY DR. RYAN RAMAGOSA & DR. SCOTT FREEMAN WITH OFFICE LOCATIONS IN MOBILE, DAPHNE, AND CHATOM, ALABAMA
Scott Freeman, MD, FAAD Ryan Ramagosa, MD, FAAD
Melissa Williams, CRNP Vernon Forrester, M.D.
Tia Janicki, PA-C
The Mobile Clinical Team
Mobile
What is your mission? At Sunrise Dermatology, our goal is to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care throughout the life of our patients’ skin – from infants to seniors.
What sets your practice apart? Sunrise Dermatology has remained dedicated to providing the highest level of comprehensive, personalized dermatologic care for patients of all ages in south Alabama and along the Gulf Coast since 2011. We are a full-service dermatology practice specializing in medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology. With two fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons on sta , we o er on-site diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers at our Skin Cancer Surgery Center.
We are deeply devoted to the physicianpatient relationship and family-oriented approach to care, as a physician-owned and operated practice. Our team of board- certi ed, fellowship-trained dermatology specialists have the experience and expertise to meet the skin care needs of our patients, utilizing the latest in leading-edge diagnostics and treatments.
Whether you’re dealing with common conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis, or you’re concerned about your risk for skin cancer, our goal is to create a customized plan to resolve your issue and to ensure the overall health and well-being of your skin for a lifetime.
How has your business grown or changed and where are you going from here? Since rst opening in Mobile in 2011, we’ve expanded to include o ces in Daphne and Chatom. We’ve also recently added an additional fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon to our Daphne team to better serve residents of the Eastern Shore. Looking to the future, our goal is to provide comprehensive, conveniently-located dermatologic care to residents of the Gulf Coast and surrounding south Alabama communities.
SUNRISE DERMATOLOGY & SKIN CANCER SURGERY CENTER
70 Midtown Park East, Mobile 8832 US HWY 90, Daphne 14714 St. Stephens Ave, Chatom 251-289-1786 • sunrisederm.com
Alabama Medical Group
DESIREE SOTER-PEARSALL, M.S., M.D., HAS BEEN PRACTICING MEDICINE FOR 23 YEARS, 10 OF WHICH HAVE BEEN WITH ALABAMA MEDICAL GROUP, P.C.
Desiree Soter-Pearsall, M.S., M.D., Internal Medicine
Why or how did you get into your eld? I love being a doctor. For me, being a physician is the ultimate opportunity to help others. I pursued a career in medicine because I wanted to make a di erence in people’s lives. My father was a physician, so growing up I saw rsthand the impact that he had on his patients. e idea of being a part of a profession that’s committed to helping others and focused on facilitating people to live healthier lives is truly rewarding—I can’t imagine having a more ful lling job.
What contributes to your success? Caring for patients of all ages is truly a remarkable experience, one that has a orded me so much joy in my life. Working the last 23 years as a primary care physician, I consider myself a patient advocate. I’ve had the privilege of taking care of patients by managing chronic illnesses, diagnosing new issues, evaluating concerning symptoms and interpreting the care they’ve received from other specialists. I believe my commitment to quality patient care and building a healthier community has led me to my newly appointed position serving as Chairman of Mobile County Board of Health. In this role, my goal is to promote, improve and protect the overall health of the residents of Mobile County.
How do you make sure patients get the best care and results? To me, medicine is both a science and an art. e science involves the obvious, knowing when someone needs to be admitted to the hospital, when they need antibiotics (or don’t), and treating medical issues. e art involves the ability to create a personalized approach for each patient. Some require “tough love” others need someone with a gentle demeanor. Having the skill set to determine which method to use is invaluable.
ALABAMA MEDICAL GROUP
101 Memorial Hospital Drive • 251-414-5900 alabamamedicalgroup.com
Cardiology Associates
CARDIOLOGY ASSOCIATES IS EXCITED TO WELCOME ANDIN H. MULLIS, MD, CARDIAC ELECTROPHYSIOLOGIST, AND JAMES D. GLADDEN, MD, PHD, INTERVENTIONAL & STRUCTURAL CARDIOLOGIST.
Andin H. Mullis, MD Cardiac Electrophysiologist James D. Gladden, MD, PhD Interventional & Structural Cardiologist
Dr. Mullis returns to his hometown of Mobile after completing his medical education and training with a sub-specialty fellowship in cardiac electrophysiology at the Medical University of South Carolina. Andin joins our experienced team of ve electrophysiologists treating patients with mild to complex heart rhythm disorders.
Dr. Gladden, an Alabama native, moves to Mobile after completing his cardiovascular fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, which included advanced training in structural cardiology. He joins our talented team of interventional and structural cardiologists treating patients with coronary artery disease, complex valvular disorders and other structural heart problems. With a team of thirty cardiologists, sub-specialty trained from some of the most respected institutions in country, Cardiology Associates provides the most comprehensive and advanced cardiovascular services in the area. Our providers o er unparalleled care with diagnostic and treatment options for coronary artery disease, atrial brillation and other heart rhythm disorders, advanced heart failure, peripheral vascular disease, structural heart disease and complex vein disorders, all supported with state-of-the-art diagnostic CT and PET imaging.
Both Dr. Mullis and Dr. Gladden are now seeing patients in Mobile.
CARDIOLOGY ASSOCIATES
Mobile — Fairhope — Foley Atmore, Jackson, Chatom, AL & Lucedale, MS 251-607-9797 cardassoc.com
Coastal Chiropractic
Dr. Ryan Nobles and Dr. Zachary Byrne
“ e best advice I was ever given was from my father, who from the beginning, has been a role model for me in the medical eld. He instilled in me to always listen and to never talk to any patient with your hand on the door. My passion is to help patients recover and grow in health, with precision and e ciency.”
Dr. Ryan Nobles has been on the Eastern Shore operating Coastal Chiropractic for the past eight years. Two years ago, the clinic moved into a state of the art facility that o ers digital X-rays, private treatment rooms designated for soft tissue, along with a specialized rehab room that focuses on sports and work injuries. Coastal Chiropractic’s mission has always been to change the public’s perception of chiropractic one patient at a time, while providing the best possible care to each patient and focusing on individual treatment plans. Coordinating care with other physicians has always been a priority to get the patient back to their normal routine as quickly as possible.
In August of 2021 Dr. Zachary Byrne joined the team to focus on high level non-surgical injuries from spinal injuries to the full extent of all extremities. Both Dr. Nobles and Dr. Byrne specialize in dry needling. is cutting edge technique has allowed patient’s to increase mobility while minimizing patient down time. As a team, we got your back!
COASTAL CHIROPRACTIC
27535 US Hwy 98, Daphne 251-375-0131 coastalchiro.us
Haley Dermatology
DR REYNOLDS IS A FELLOWSHIP-TRAINED MOHS SURGEON AT HALEY DERMATOLOGY. HE HAS RECEIVED EXTENSIVE TRAINING IN SKIN CANCER REMOVAL AND RECONSTRUCTIVE PROCEDURES.
– Dr. H. Harris Reynolds Why or how did you get into your eld? Mohs surgery is one of the very few elds in medicine that provide immediate grati cation to the patient and physician. e patient is able to enter the o ce with a speci c problem and leave a few hours later after having their skin cancer removed completely. I was also fascinated by the Mohs technique and its ability to obtain such high cure rates. Patients love the peace of mind knowing the cancer is gone the day of surgery. I also take great pride in making sure my patients get the best possible cosmetic outcome.
What sets your practice apart? We o er a wide variety of services to meet patient needs, ranging from medical and surgical dermatology to cosmetic procedures like lasers, llers and Botox. Our o ce is located in a convenient location and we have a newly remodeled space designed just for Mohs surgery. During patients’ visits we will ensure they feel relaxed in what can be a stressful situation. is is done by providing a comfortable environment, quality care, and involving patients in the decision making process.
How do you make sure patients get the best care/results? Often there is more than one option for treatment or wound repair. Being able to discuss these with the patient in real time is a great bene t of Mohs surgery. is allows us to take into consideration patient preferences such as wound care, degree of activity restrictions, and need for follow-up when developing a treatment plan.
HALEY DERMATOLOGY
200 Rock Creek Parkway, Fairhope 251-928-3844 • haleyderm.com
Infirmary Pediatrics
Nina Ford Johnson, MD
Nina Ford Johnson, MD, FAAP, has been practicing as a general pediatrician with In rmary Pediatrics since 2013. She graduated in 2003 from Tennessee State University with a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. Shortly thereafter, she completed her medical doctorate from Meharry Medical College in 2008 and nished her pediatric residency at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX.
Dr. Johnson is the current vice president for the Medical Association of the State of Alabama and served as the president of the Mobile Medical Society from 2020-2021. Recently, she was featured in the Centers for Disease Control and Health and Human Services national advertising campaign, “We Can Do This,” to increase con dence and understanding of the COVID-19 vaccine in black children. Dr. Johnson has a passion for educating the community and ensuring they have the knowledge and tools they need to care for themselves and their family.
Infirmary Pediatrics, an affiliate of Infirmary Health, has provided the Mobile community with personalized, quality pediatric care for 25 years. Located off of Airport Boulevard, Infirmary Pediatrics’ board-certified physicians offer comprehensive medical care for children from birth to 17-years-old. To learn more, visit infirmaryhealth.org.
INFIRMARY PEDIATRICS
4013 Airport Blvd, Suite C 251-435-5437
Pulmonary Associates of Mobile
Brad Pitts, M.D.
— Joseph Zurfluh, CEO
Dr. Pitts is a Mobile native who attended Spring Hill College for his undergraduate studies before graduating from e University of South Alabama Medical School. Dr. Pitts trained extensively in Mobile for Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care. He lives with his family in West Mobile. He loves DC Comics and is a huge fan of Metallica. He sees patients in his West Mobile O ce located on Airport Boulevard and cares for patients at Providence Hospital.
Dr. Pitts and his partners have created a practice dedicated to improving the lives of patients with respiratory disease and immunologic conditions. He demonstrates great leadership and is an example to his partners and his sta . He leads the way in evaluating new diagnostic equipment and he is an advocate for the company’s Chronic Care Management Division. His patients are able to enroll in a program that monitors their adherence to care plan goals and works to keep them healthy and out of the hospital.
“Pulmonary Associates is fortunate to have great physician leadership and Dr. Pitts is a young physician who is continuing the tradition by using his superb skills to continue to improve the group,” says Joseph Zur uh, Chief Executive O cer.
PULMONARY ASSOCIATES OF MOBILE
5955 Airport Blvd, Mobile 251-633-0573 • lungmds.com
The Birthing Suites at Springhill
Medical Center
What sets e Birthing Suites at Springhill apart? Our patients tell us over and over again that it’s our family-centered culture that is unique to Springhill. From the moment they enter the hospital before delivery through every moment in their delivery room and the day they are discharged to go home, they encounter friendly, helpful, and professional associates to assist them.
Why do patients prefer e Birthing Suites at Springhill? Our standard is the best care for every patient, every time. Our experienced, hard-working team works diligently to coordinate with the patients’ physicians to ensure that every facet of their experience meets or exceeds their expectations. New mothers love the updated, warm and welcoming delivery rooms, modern operating rooms, and safe & secure Nursery o ered at our Birthing Suites. Also comforting to them is the large team of board certi ed lactation consultants available to assist them with important breastfeeding questions.
What specialized training has the sta completed? Our staff has completed Intermediate Fetal Monitoring training, and two of our nurses are certified. We have 5 International Board Certified Lactation Consultants and 2 Lactation Counselors. In addition, we have a Certified Childbirth Educator teaching our courses.
How do you assist new Mothers with their transition home? In life there are few moments that can ever compare to “the big day.” Bringing a new life into the world is one of the most incredible things you can ever experience. Our education classes and transitional instruction help new Moms feel more con dent caring for their new baby once they leave us. We even provide them with their rst at-home meal to make the transition a little more relaxed.
SPRINGHILL MEDICAL CENTER BIRTHING SUITES
3719 Dauphin Street 251-344-9630 springhillmedicalcenter.com
The Emergency Department
at Springhill Medical Center
What stands out about Springhill Medical Center’s Emergency Department? Our Emergency Department is the only one in our area sta ed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week only by physicians who are board certi ed in emergency medicine. eir expertise makes it possible to expedite life-saving procedures. All nurses are certi ed in advanced cardiac life support. e facilities were recently expanded and updated and include more patient rooms, more nursing stations, and more negative pressure rooms to prevent the spread of disease. In fact, Springhill was the rst hospital to set up a separate area for treating covid patients in the rst days of the pandemic. e hospital later constructed a permanent negative pressure treatment area in the ED with a separate entrance to prevent the spread of infectious disease.
Why do patients prefer Springhill Medical Center’s Emergency Department? We consistently exceed the standard of care for our patients. We address the most serious health issues while keeping our patients and employees safe. In an emergency, speed is imperative in diagnosing and treating serious conditions, and our team delivers safe, e cient, timely treatment utilizing the most advanced technologies.
Why would a patient choose Springhill Medical Center’s Emergency Department? Not only are we extremely easy to get to on Dauphin Street at the intersection of Interstate 65, our family-centered mission stands out to our patients. Upon arrival they always notice the di erence in our team’s caring approach to their care. Springhill o ers access to the best emergency care in the heart of Mobile.
SPRINGHILL MEDICAL CENTER EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT
3719 Dauphin Street 251-344-9630 springhillmedicalcenter.com
University of Mobile School of Nurse Anesthesia
THE UNIVERSITY OF MOBILE SCHOOL OF NURSE ANESTHESIA OFFERS THE FIRST AND ONLY DOCTOR OF NURSE ANESTHESIA PRACTICE PROGRAM IN A FOUR-STATE REGION.
UNIVERSITY OF MOBILE SCHOOL OF NURSE ANESTHESIA
251-442-2222 umobile.edu/dnap
Todd Hicks, DNP, CRNA Director, UM School of Nurse Anesthesia; Professor of Nurse Anesthesia
Lonnie Burnett, PhD President, University of Mobile e Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice (DNAP) program in the University of Mobile’s new School of Nurse Anesthesia prepares potential Certi ed Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) to provide safe and e ective anesthesia care for all populations in any setting at full scope of practice. It is the rst and only DNAP program in Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Georgia.
UM President Lonnie Burnett, PhD, said the program addresses a critical need along the Gulf Coast in the eld of nurse anesthesia. It is under the direction of Todd Hicks, DNP, CRNA, formerly associate pathway coordinator of the BSN-DNP Nurse Anesthesia Pathway at e University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
UM’s 36-month DNAP program is o ered in a blended format, combining on-site and online learning. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and more than one full year of critical care nursing experience. e university admitted its second cohort of students in August 2022. e deadline to apply for the third cohort is November 1, 2022, with classes beginning in August 2023.
For more information or to apply, visit umobile.edu/dnap or call Enrollment Services at 251-442-2222.
USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute
Brian E. Persing, MD Division Director and Chief of Hematology and Medical Oncology Arlene and Mayer Mitchell Chair of Medical Oncology Board-Certified Hematologist and Medical Oncologist e USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute’s Dr. Brian Persing is revolutionizing how patients receive cancer care along the upper Gulf Coast. As MCI’s division director of hematology and medical oncology, Dr. Persing leads the strategy to build disease-oriented clinical programs, with each medical oncologist focused on a speci c cancer type or subtype.
Disease-oriented focus provides patients access to advanced diagnostic testing and more individualized treatment plans, leading to better outcomes. Dr. Persing also trains and supervises medical oncology fellows, growing our next generation of cancer specialists.
“A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming,” said Dr. Persing. “Getting an appointment with an oncologist who is an expert and specializes in speci c cancers provides patients with additional reassurance.”
e MCI’s clinical divisions encompass multidisciplinary teams and active research programs, providing patients with seamless coordination of care. Understanding the genetic drivers of cancer compels Dr. Persing and the medical oncology team to build bridges across more than 100 cancer disease types to apply the latest, most advanced cancer treatment protocols.
USA HEALTH MITCHELL CANCER INSTITUTE
1660 Spring Hill Avenue 251-410-1010 • usamci.com
