Social Coastal | June 2023

SOCIAL COASTAL

FROM THE EDITOR

We are so excited to bring Social Magazines to the communities of Orange Beach, Perdido Key, Gulf Shores, and surrounding areas. We are humbled by the support you have given to us, we are honored you allowed us to join your events, and we are proud to highlight some outstanding individuals who are making a difference at home.

If you are a visitor to the community, welcome! We are glad we can introduce you to people and organizations that make these communities such an amazing place to live and visit. Most of you that pick up a copy of Social Coastal will be blessed to live in these communities often known as Pleasure Island, Small Town...Big Beach or The Lost Key. We know that to you the title is simply, home. Thank you for inviting us into your home.

It has been such a pleasure working to put together this inaugural issue. Next issue, we welcome Eva Keesee into the role of Editor for Social Coastal Magazine! We are the Place to Be Seen, and we can’t wait to see you out supporting worthy causes in the community.

MELINDA McGHEE Managing Editor Alabama

SPRINGS, AL

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PUBLISHER

David Renfro

MANAGING EDITOR ALABAMA

Melinda McGhee

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Eva Keesee

SALES

Eva Keesee l 251.979.4278

Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429

Kerry Begnaud | 251.609.0244

Weslyn Walters | 251.895.4563

Amalie Murphy | 850.293.9022

David Renfro | 731.499.1414

PHOTOGRAPHY

Ruili Cai

Andrew Crumpton

Shelley Patterson, C-Shelz Photography

Stevye Photography

Kayci Gatlin Photography

Home by Summer Davis Photography

Wedding by Jennie Tewell Photography

STAFF WRITER

Liesel Schmidt

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Brad Growden, Kim Mesman & Chris Shenk

SOCIAL COASTAL MAGAZINE

www.socialcoastalmagazine.com

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THE BEST OF THE COAST AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

COMMUNITY leaders

MEN OF HONOR

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

In1984 when Youth-Reach Gulf Coast was founded, Curt Williams was a twenty something young man who, by the grace of God, had been given a life that had never seen a moment on the street, never been rejected by his family and had never felt the fear and hopelessness of homelessness. But in his blessing, he felt led to the calling of working with boys and young men who had suffered all of those circumstances. “Working with Youth-Reach Gulf Coast has just changed my life—it defined it,” says Curt, who founded the YRGC and serves as Executive Director. “I started doing this when I was 24, and now I am 62, with seven children who have grown into incredible men and women. This has been what I do and who I am for a long time. The Lord took me from a man with a supreme self-focus and taught me to care for others and to start something that exceeded my abilities long ago.”

While Curt may have felt out of his depth, God never gives us more than we can handle—and in almost 40 years, the program has grown to a full-service, Christcentered residential ministry operating on an 81-acre campus east of Summerdale, with 14 beds for the main program phase and six for the transitional living phase. “There was a time when I knew every detail, because there was not much to know, but as the ministry has grown and the scope of our services has expanded, my role has evolved,” he says. “Now, my task is to see the big picture, to guide the course for today and to put Youth-Reach in a strong and healthy position for the men that are soon to take the wheel and lead into the next season.”

One of those men is David Williams, who, much like Curt, felt the call of service early in his life and became part of the YRGC team in 2013. Before coming to the Gulf Coast to work with Youth-Reach, David and his wife Summer had spent 16 years working with children and special needs adults at Missouri Baptist Children’s Home. Now in his role as Director of YRGC, the father of four leads others in the vision of Youth-Reach and raises awareness. “I share that with staff and those in the community that desire to learn more,” he says. “My heart isn’t to turn a stranger into a donor but to communicate who we are and what we do. I genuinely want to create relationship where I can, because relationship is the heart of what we do.”

Like Curt, David also sees the ways that working with YRGC has changed him. “My genuine trust for the Lord started here,” he says. “Not a cliché ‘trust’ but a trust for every need to be met. We are a non-profit ministry that is given every dime we have by friends, family and strangers. I didn’t have faith to believe that when I first moved to Alabama. That’s something that came with the journey. One donation at a time. One side job at a time, I began to see and trust in God’s provision. Washing used cars on a lot for $50 a day—that was not punishment but provision. We will continue to rely on Him. This reliance on Him truly provokes humility. I would say that type of humility is what it takes to serve a ministry where the Lord remains at the top.”

“Summer fit naturally with me in my passion to see the lives of young men changed in surrender,” David continues. “We didn’t say yes to Youth-Reach because we are good people and want good things for others. We hold tightly to the fact the Christ’s love is the source for all hope. Family is the vehicle the Lord uses to show His love. “

Adds Curt, “Watching boys and young men fully grasp all they can from their time at Youth-Reach and then go on to exceed their own wildest dreams is an incredible blessing.”

Youth-Reach Gulf Coast is a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA). This accreditation demonstrates our willingness to operate responsibly and be held accountable financially. We are a 501(c)3 organization and all donations are tax-deductible.

251.967.4809 | P.O. Box 357, Summerdale, AL 36580 youthreachgc.org

ART

More than 500 people attended the Baldwin Art for Heart Gala at CoastAL Orange Beach to support lifesaving research, address existing obstacles to improved health, spread awareness, and inspire people to take action right in Baldwin County and beyond. Guests enjoyed great food, a full bar and live music as they joined together to raise over $300,000 for the American Heart Association. After the silent and live auctions ended, attendees honored this year’s Face of Heart, 6-year-old Fisher Nelson, Community Honorees John and Shelly McInnis and Medical Honoree Dr. Ryan Forbess.

Ginger and Hunter Harrelson Marguerite Perkinson, Lisa Miller, and Jessalyn Loy

Crawford and Brenton McWilliams

Brandon Nelson and Alyssa Smith

Eva, Hudson, and Nick Wilmott

Jared and Kristen Irby, Skyla and Austin Tanner

Tiffany Alsbury and Olivia Savell

Taylor Croley and Hollie MacKellar

Greg and Kellie Guzman

Janine and Cory Skipper

Photos by Ruili Cai

SOCIAL

TANYA AND BRUCE MCNIDER

Terri Long, Marlene Lowe, and Eva Keesee

Kasie Sheridan, April DePaola, and Alison Burns Mara and Jerry Golden

Angelo and April DePaola, Patty and Steve Brekke

Wes and Jessica Hicks, Sarah and Tater Harris

SOCIAL

Cendy Hart, Katherine Shaver, and Haley Dunnam

Amanda Spears and Eddie Harper Ryan and Amber Dunlap

TERRY, JESSE, MURPHY, AND ROSE ANN HAVEN

Lauren F. and Justin A. Pate, Barbie and Dr. Ken Francez

Jeff Quinlan, Erin Taylor, and Raegen Goodreuax

Mary Cain Fowler and Bill Raus

Alex Brooks, Gabrielle Napier, and Sarah Weaver

Anna and Brandan Franklin, Amanda Spears, Eddie Harper, Julie and Brent Head

Clarke Armsrong, Jessica Wilson Lewis, and Amy Wilson

Melanie Martin and John Burbach

Ryan Brick and Jennifer Taylor

Crystal and Bruce Tew

Bryan Long and Mary Elizabeth Long

Justin and Caroline Massey

Lori Cheney, Weenie Sapp, and Scotia Steadman

Bryan Long, Mary Elizabeth Long, Stacey Waeltz, and Charles Waeltz

RICKY TRIONE

Ricky Trione is a native of Fairhope who has for many years enjoyed drawing very detailed images of our beautiful Eastern Shore. Many have the drawings Ricky created in pen and ink of the Sand Island and Middle Bay Lighthouse in their collections, as well as his sea life, birds, boats, and images along the Gulf Coast. As a sighted artist, he never used color, only black and white.

Ricky lost his sight in two accidents, one eye at a time, in a 7-year period. His left eye was permanently blinded while serving as a Captain in the Army in 1993. A rock was slung though the open window of his vehicle and caused permanent retina damage. Seven years later in August 2000, a large strip of tire tread flew from a passing truck and struck him in his other eye causing permanent blindness. Ricky could no longer drive a car or enjoy art. He eventually learned to create art by using textures so that he could feel his way across a canvas. He works in a 3D style that includes thick texture paints and molding compounds. His greatest joy is getting to visit children of all ages in schools, art camps and special events. Ricky offers children hope and inspiration, while teaching them special art lessons, demonstrating that you can enjoy being creative and artistic, no matter what obstacles come your way.

Ricky’s primary inspiration and role model is his Uncle Ronald Trione. Ronald inspired everyone because he painted by holding a paint brush in his mouth due to being paralyzed from his neck down. Ricky strives to carry on the inspiration and joy of his Uncle Ronald. Ricky loves to share one of his favorite scriptures with everyone, “We walk by faith, not by sight.”

2 Corinthians 5:7.

Headshot photo credit: Stephen Savage

One Fish... Two Fish

One Fish... Two Fish

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

While the idea of climate change and environmental conservation has only gained notable traction in the last decade or so, there have always been groups of people who strongly feel the need to protect and preserve our natural resources, for present and future generations. It was such a group as this—a handful of recreational fishermen focused on preserving the local Speckled Trout and Redfish populations along the Texas coast—who banded together and met in a bait and tackle shop, ultimately creating the Coastal Conservation Association in 1977. Five years later in 1982, CCA Alabama became the organization’s first state chapter outside of Texas.

“CCA, along with the other ‘hook and bullet’ organizations like the National Wild Turkey Federation, Ducks Unlimited, and Delta Waterfowl, plays an important role in helping to ensure that our user groups have their rights to access the resource protected and that those resources are managed in a sustainable way to ensure continued access,” explains Blakeley Ellis, Executive Director of CCA Alabama. “CCA embraces the ideal that natural resources belong to the next generation, and it is not ours to give away today. In addition

to the other projects and ways we work in the community, ensuring that children grow up interested in enjoying and conserving our marine resources is an important aim, and we look for every opportunity to donate fishing gear to children who want to fish.”

CCA Alabama’s scope of community service, in fact, is quite impressive. Since 1988, they have provided $200,000 in annual scholarships to the Dauphin Island Sea Lab to college undergraduate students. In 1994, the organization participated in Operation REEFEX, a cooperative effort involving the Department of Defense, AL-MRD, and CCA to deploy over 100 Korean War army tanks in Gulf of Mexico to create an artificial reef habitat. Twelve years later, in 2006, CCA Alabama helped finance the building of a 3,000 ton inshore reef north of Ono Island.

The organization made a $150,000 contribution to the Bernie Heggeman Memorial Reef off of Dauphin Island in 2017. In addition, they partnered with the Alabama Wildlife Federation and AL-MRD to develop the AL Reefs artificial reef plan and a website to assist with securing more funding for artificial reefs in Alabama waters. To date, the program has received $40,000,000 in oil spill restoration funds. In 2019 and 2020, CCA Alabama funded a $40,000 Cobia Tagging Study through the University of South Alabama to track migration patterns in the Gulf of Mexico, having launched and funded TAG Alabama in 2018. In addition to migration patterns, tagging is a tool used to study habitat preferences, fish movement patterns, mortality, and other factors affecting marine life. “TAG Alabama, the first Recreational Angler Tagging program in Alabama, is a partnership between CCA Alabama, the University of South Alabama Department of Marine Sciences and the Dauphin Island Sealab,” says Ellis. “Currently, over 8500 trout and red fish have been tagged and released with 1100 tagged fish being recaptured.

“TAG Alabama gives CCA members in Alabama the opportunity to participate in user-based data and research on speckled trout and redfish,” he goes on. “All active CCA members who fish in Alabama’s coastal waters are eligible to become taggers. Tagger orientation sessions take place throughout the year, and after attending the seminar, participants are ready to start tagging. Once they complete an orientation session, they receive a free tagging kit that includes tags for speckled trout, red drum, bull red drum and a tag applicator. If a tagger catches a fish with one of our tags, we ask them to follow the information on the tag and report the info to the website.”

In the four decades since its founding, CCA Alabama has grown to include chapters across the state, with more than 2200 members who work to conserve marine resources. Funding for their projects comes directly from donations, local chapter fundraisers and the CCA AL Saltwater

Fishing License Plate. “One of the largest challenges we currently face is the need for greater involvement and support for local chapters, both in funding and in membership,” Ellis notes. “We believe that education is key to increase participation. It is important for us to share with the citizens of Alabama that, when they volunteer or attend our events or purchase a CCA Alabama license plate, every dollar raised supports projects in Alabama. It is also important that anglers obtain a fishing license due to the support available through matching funds from the Sport Fish Restoration Program. Matching funds from this program are based on the sale of fishing licenses, and this funding helps with projects such as building reefs, maintaining and improving boat ramps, research and restocking.”

Current and ongoing projects include CCA Alabama’s contributions to The Claude Peteet Mariculture Center, an Alabama Department of Conservation Fish Hatchery started in the 1970s in Gulf Shores. By the end of 2022, CCA Alabama had contributed almost $250,000 to the fish hatchery, which is currently focused on speckled trout, Florida pompano and southern flounder. In addition to fundraising efforts for upgrading equipment, CCA Alabama has organized tournaments with live weigh-ins and collection to obtain fish to supply brood stock fish for the restocking program.

Last September, CCA Alabama was honored with a ribbon cutting for the new Coastal Conservation Association Alabama Fisheries Lab Complex on the campus of the University of South Alabama’s new School of Marine and Environmental Sciences, made possible by a portion of CCA Alabama’s donation of $150,000. The facility provides students and faculty with access to state-of-the-art equipment and processing technology to monitor local fish populations.

“A huge thanks to the Coastal Conservation Association of Alabama for their gift to this project,” says Dr. Sean Powers, director of the School of Marine and Environmental Sciences. “This new lab complex will help South Alabama further expand its fisheries research by providing students and faculty with state-of-the-art instrumentation to assess reproductive output and determine age structure of fish populations. This information is key to sustainable management of our valuable fisheries.”

Another portion of the donation was used to establish the CCA-Shipp Sport Fish Graduate Research Fund and further expand the Drs. Linda and Robert Shipp Undergraduate Scholarship in Marine and Environmental Sciences at USA.

CCA Alabama holds in-person and online fundraising events throughout the year to increase funding and awareness, such as the upcoming Eastern Shore Fall Out on October 5, 2023, at Oak Hollow Farm in Fairhope, Alabama. The event includes live music, silent and live auctions, raffles and dinner catered by Water Oak Coastal Catering.

For more information on CCA Alabama, visit ccaalabama.org

The Annual American Heroes on the Gulf event returned for its seventh year, continuing its ministry in the name of Greg Godwin who passed away this January. In addition to a day of deep sea fishing with disabled veterans, the celebration began with a banquet the evening before to kick off the event. This celebration at Orange Beach Event Center included guest speakers, entertainment, a raffle, and a silent auction.

Rachel Godwin, Mike Giannini and Susan Giannini

Photos by Shelley Patterson

Shawna Whitsett, Alison Burns, Rhonda Clanton, and Jim Clanton

Darin Carter and “Dozer”

Patty Keyes and Cherie Raber

Randy and Joyce Moyse

Allison and Bart Pryor

Phelan Webb and Chad McLeod

Michael Jackson and Dennis Hubbard

Dianne and Lloyd Duncan

Alan and Tammy Sims

Members of the Treasures of the Isle Mardi Gras

Krewe organized a fun filled day at Orange Beach Event Center with a Kentucky Derby theme in conjunction with the 149th Run for the Roses. In addition to the horse race, activities included derby jackpots, door prizes, raffles, derby hat contests, music, games, a buffet and a $2,000 drawdown. Funds from the event will help the Krewe contribute to the community in several ways, including sizable donations to the Tacky Jacks’ Veterans Fund, the Baldwin County Animal Shelter, and the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo.

Nancy Dickhute, Jann Clink, and Douglas Clink

Photos by Shelley Patterson

Glenda McCaleb and Karey Morton Robin and Chuck Crotwell

Linda Connolly and Merilee Chambers

Debbie and Chuck Hayes

Joe and Bridgit Gelling

Pam Law and Savannah Varner

Kathy Rauch and Jim Trest

Debbie Hayes and JoEllen Karazin

Braxton and Marlene Lowe

Auroras

Rusty Price and Dianah Armstrong

Coming Soon

REAL ESTATE Issue The

THE INTERSTATE MULLET TOSS & GULF COAST’S GREATEST BEACH PARTY

The Interstate Mullet Toss & Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party is legendary. Those who participate in the Mullet Toss will throw a dead mullet over the state line of Florida and Alabama to see who gets the farthest. People travel from across the globe to see what all the fuss is about at the Flora-Bama. Proceeds from every mullet tossed go to local youth charities, including local schools’ education and prevention programs.

When the world changes, we can help you prepare for what’s next

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This month’s ‘Very Important Business Event’ hosted by Coastal Alabama Business Chamber was held at Big Beach Brewing Company in Gulf Shores and sponsored by Kesling Law Firm. Attendees enjoyed great food courtesy of Amelia’s Deli, a cash bar with a variety of craft beer and wine as well as live music.

Bryan Long, Mary Long, Jessica Hicks, and Wes Hicks

Photos by Ruili Cai

Jim and Cyndi Hill

Janine and Cory Skipper

Gary and Janice Kania

Renee Jones and Sam Washington

Eiffel and Brooke Johnson

Rick and Michelle Conway

Elizabeth and Josh Kesling

Jackie Price and Shelley Butler

Chris Rhodes and Heidi Webb

Cindy Mann and Pat Dupre

Forrest and Sydney Drinkwine

Kim Kennedy, Kimberly Ray, Christina Buckner, and Penny Hughey

Monika Silva, Taylor Furry, and Brandon Furry

Marie Miller and Molly Cooley

Aaron Jackson, Matt Hamric, and Andy Entrekin

Ashley Roberts and Gina Simmons

Mike Conroy and Jenny Summerville

Lori Lumsden and Brook Jones

Morgan Robinson, Nicole Abbott-Peretz, Jennifer Palvado, and Kate Burroughs

Michelle O’Neil, Jennifer Prince, Sharon Wiese, Samantha Fender, Jessicha Harris, and Ariana Lunsford

Steve Meyer, Jessica Waters, and Kyle Palazzo

David Harper and Kimberly Ray

Meghan Sprinkle, Marie Miller, and Joy Guinn

Casey Buckner, Mark Dickhute, Nancy Dickhute, and Matt Hamric

Renee Kinshella and Ray Grable

IMPACT 100 BIG REVEAL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNI GUERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

At its 2023 “Big Reveal” at Izenstone, Impact 100 Baldwin County announced they will award five $105,000 grants later this year to nonprofits serving Baldwin County. Totaling $525,000, these grants will fund programs that make a difference in the quality of life for residents of this region.

Photo Credit: Brittney Rogers Photography

SUPER MOM

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Co-owning Beachball Properties

with her husband, Ginger Harrelson has a full work schedule, managing vacation and rental properties along the Alabama Gulf Coast. In addition, the busy businesswoman serves as corporate counsel.

The most important of her multiple roles, however, is being a mother to her two young children. “Being a working mom is challenging yet rewarding,” says Harrelson of the push-pull and juggling act of working motherhood. “There are never enough hours in the day, but it is empowering knowing that I contribute my gifts and talents both inside and outside of our home. I know that I am setting an example for my children that you can find a way to do everything that is important to you.”

“I also feel that being a working mom shows my children the importance of hard work, ambition, and perseverance,” she goes on. “We currently employ over 25 people, and most of our office personnel have met our kids. I hope one day our kids will recognize that our business is more than just a business to us. It is about providing exceptional service for our homeowners and guests, as well as a culture of positivity and support for those who choose Beachball Properties as their place of work.”

PHOTOS BY STEVYE PHOTOGRAPHY

For Harrelson, there are some lessons she has learned in business that translate into raising children and teaching them how to navigate life, and vice versa. “Building a business from 14 to 270 properties under management in seven years was not easy,” says the 34-year-old. “There will be challenges and stress at every turn when you are growing your business—much like when you are growing a family. But nothing is more important than your family and your health—mental and physical. If there’s anything taking up a large amount of your mental space, whether that be a client, deal or relationship, it is probably best to cut ties and move on from whatever that is. You are not for everyone, and you must learn to be ok with that.”

As her children grow into adulthood, Harrelson has simple hopes for what they remember of their mother and the lessons they take into the world. “I hope that they never forget that I loved them so very much, and that all the sacrifices we’ve made along the way were to better and enrich their lives,” she says. “In business circles, people often ask, ‘What is your WHY?’ My children have been and will always be my why, and I hope they will remember that.”

“I also hope we inspire them to continue giving back and doing good work and deeds,” she goes on. “Giving back to the community has always been incredibly important to my husband and me, both in our personal lives and in our business, and that is also something we want to pass on to our children.” Harrelson and her husband served as the 2023 Chairs for Baldwin Art for Heart to benefit the American Heart Association. She has also served as the Vice President of the Pleasure Island Junior Women’s Club for two years and will be serving as president in the coming year. Additionally, Beachball Properties is a Coastal Alabama Chamber of Commerce Chamber Champion and the proud sponsor of The Island Spirit Award and the PowHER Hour series.

“I hope that they never forget that I loved them so very much, and that all the sacrifices we’ve made along the way were to better and enrich their lives.”

Making time to spend with her kids is a priority for Harrelson, and there are a few family traditions that keep that time sacred. “I read to my children every night,” she says. “I also have ‘day dates’ with each of my children frequently. I keep them home from daycare on a school day, and we spend the day together doing fun things one-on-one. My little girl likes to go to the trampoline park and get her nails done. My little boy enjoys the playground and Chick-fil-A. I think it’s important to carve out time for them each to be one-on-one with Mommy.”

Lessons learned in parenthood can be some of the most important ones in life, and Harrelson recognizes the value of what her children have taught her. “They’ve shown me the ability to be quick to forgive,” she says. “Children do not have the capacity to stay upset for very long. I think adults can learn a lot from that.”

PHOTOS BY STEVYE PHOTOGRAPHY

MASTERS OF THE Ceremony

Like the intertwining of a live oak, a father’s passion for wine combined with his son’s love of agriculture, The Hope Farm came to life. Robert and Bentley Evans love their hometown of Fairhope and have long dreamed of providing their community a memorable gathering space full of comfort and tranquili ty.

Photography by Rae Leytham

Over 300 of the top business, municipality, industry, and education leaders from the communities served by the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber gathered in their best black and white attire at what has become its showcase red carpet event. Black and White Night celebrated its 4th year with dinner, dancing, live music, a cash bar, & fellowship, all while awards were presented to the selfless volunteers that are the life-blood of the surrounding communities.

Pat Dupre and Larry Tyler

Rodney and Anne Stephens

Cathy and Bill Walrath

Tanner Gorum and Tristan Campbell

Pat and Ed Hackett

John Bobe, Shelby Stuck, and Karen Bobe

Marlin Dixon and Sara Corzo

Anna and Brandan Franklin

Sally and Max Westendorf

Lance and Brittney Alexander

Photos by Ruili Cai

Anthony and Carson Schaff

Derrick Cook and Cat McRae

Gary Fondren and April Wilson

Karen Bobe, Monica Cavasos, Shelby Stuck, Alex Lute, Jennifer Guthrie, Karen Davis, and John Bobe Sarah Brumagin, Whisper Edwards, Brenton C.McWilliams, Alvita Simmons, and  Leigh Margaret Bostic

Morgan Gillette and David Byrne Eric and Brooke Nelson Jonathan and Jessica Lazzarino

Beverly Kennedy, Alison Burns, Sara Vicinitys, Angel Bennett, and Morgan Gillette

Chip Begnaud, Kerry Begnaud, Billy Coogan, Erin Butler, Eddie Skipper, and Olivia Skipper

Brett and Suzette Hataway

Bob and Kathy Lindley Yo and Jerry Johnson

GINGER AND HUNTER HARRELSON

Photos by Ruili Cai

Friends of the Arts celebrated an elegant night on the waterfront at Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach. Guests of the groups’ signature fundraiser, The Grand Event, enjoyed an evening of delectable cuisine and cocktails, dancing, a live event painter, a silent auction and live music. All proceeds will be used to advance fine art opportunities along our Gulf Coast.

Amy DiMario and Susan Coyne

Mike Pond and Debbie Carney

Harriet McMillan and Jeanie Duffy

Steve and Dee Burrow

Norma and Mike Lynch

Donna Burns and Tracy Holiday

Susan N. McGallaugh and E. Gaylon McCollough

Crawford and Brenton McWilliams

Jim and Cindy Bishop

Heidi Webb and Chris Rhodes

COMING SOON

MASTERS OF THE Ceremony

Social Coastal highlights bridal vendors throughout the region that offer our community the best of the best for planning the perfect wedding!

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Katrina Anderson, Alan McElroy, and Desiree Blackwell

Georgine Grennier Kowalefski, Andrea Cota, and Patricia Riley

Donna Turbyfill and Lisa Mcfatter

Deb Johnson, Gloria Bridges, Jeanne Fitzgibbons, and Jane Lee

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

There are some who, had they been born in a different century perhaps, would most assuredly have been pirates or captains of massive ships traversing oceans in search of far-off lands, so deeply do they love the feeling of being out on the water.

Lyons Bousson, Sr., is one of those men.

While he may not be at the helm of a wooden ship whose sails have felt the winds of a thousand worlds, 53-year-old Bousson has a love of the water that seems to run soul deep. “I have loved the water for as long as I can remember,” he says. “I moved to Montrose with my family when I was two years old, in 1972, and I fell in love with Mobile Bay the first time I laid eyes on her. I grew up throwing cast nets, looking for jubilees, and fishing whenever possible. Time spent on the water has always felt effortless, and it’s the place I am the happiest.”

A MAN AT

His pursuit of his captain’s license was a natural step, and Bousson has held one since 2011. In 2017 when his son Lyons, Jr., followed in his footsteps and obtained his own captain’s license, he started his own charter company, Fairhope Charters. “Getting my captain’s license and starting a small charter business was and is my outlet to share my love of fishing, conservation and God’s creation with others,” says Bousson, who in addition to owning the charter company, has worked at Acme Brick and Tile for 23 years and is currently serving as Sales Manager for the Gulf Coast region. “I love being able to share tides with people I may not normally get the chance to meet. It’s a blessing to share God’s creation, and I have made some great friends along the way.”

As much as he loves the water, Bousson loves his community, and he finds as many ways to serve both passions as he can. “I have always felt that

it is important to serve and find ways to give back to your community,” he says. “I have been fortunate to be involved with organizations like the Baldwin County Homebuilders Association, Delta Waterfowl, CCA Alabama, Stormin’ Norman, Hope on a Boat and several other charity fishing tournaments.”

Bousson was recently involved with starting Hope on a Boat, which provides a day of fishing for children and adults with disabilities. “One of my fishing clients who became a great friend, Chris Riley, and I were talking about the need in our community to make sure children with disabilities had access to a day of fishing and fun on the water,” he explains. “We organized for six people to have their own fishing guide for the day and tried to give them a day they would never forget. Between the fish caught, the fellowship over breakfast and lunch, and the smiles—it’s easily one of my favorite days of the year.”

The heart of a man is very much like the sea. It has storms, it has tides, and in its depths, it has its pearls, too.

– Vincent van Gogh

Additionally, Bousson serves as the Tournament Director for the annual fishing tournament for Baldwin County Home Builders Association, whose proceeds benefit CARE House/Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center, an organization that provides services to children who are the victims of abuse. He is also the President for the Eastern Shore Chapter of CCA Alabama.

The father of three is building a legacy for his community as well as his children—twins Mary Michael and Lyons, Jr., both of whom have their captain’s licenses and work with their father at the charter company, and Bay. A graduate of Auburn, Boussard married his highschool sweetheart, Michelle and moved back home to Fairhope in 1997. The couple has lived on Weeks Bay for 18 years, raising their family and a few Labradors. Unsurprisingly, Bousson’s greatest hobby is spending time with his family outdoors. “Half the year, we fish for redfish, speckled trout, flounder, tripletail and tarpon,” he says. “The other half of the year, we are hunting deer, dove and ducks at our hunting camp in Burnt Corn. I like to track deer with my black lab, Brandy.”

Saunders Yachtworks welcomed customers, friends, and the community to their 11th Annual Boatyard Bash, held on the opening night of The Wharf Boat & Yacht Show. Guests enjoyed great food, adult beverages, and live music. It was also an opportunity to tour their state-of-the-art facility.

Photos by Ruili Cai

Matt and Loni Judy

Myra, Patrick, and Sallie Imsand

Julie and Greg Alexander

Anna and Chase Porter

Hannah Beason and Ashley Andrews

John Fitzgerald, Jim Cox, and Matt Shaw

Rita Daniell and Judy Bomar

Pryor and Robert Lampton

Justin and Leigha Bolton

Andolyn Fitzgerald and Julia Hays

WHEN’S THE LAST TIME YOU SAW A DIGITAL MAGAZINE AT THE DOCTOR’S OFFICE?

P.O.P YOURMAKEBUSINESS POWEROF PRINT

91of US adults read a magazine in the last six months, which translates into a diverse audience across age, gender, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Moreover, magazines reach more adults than television and more women than the top tech sites.

- The Association of Magazine Media

James, Jen, Patricia, and Jim Cozby

Lisa and Ron Davis

The Fitzgerald/Saunders Family

Paul Siegel, Elizabeth Ladd, and John Ladd

Mark and Lori Wilson

THE WHARF

The Wharf Boat Show, benefitting St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, featured something for everyone from an entry level boater to a seasoned veteran. The exhibitor’s list was a who’s who of the marine industry, with over $100 million in boats and marine products on display. The three-day event featured a red carpet on Friday, Ladies Day sponsored by Lucca Boutique on Saturday and Military Appreciation on Sunday. Exhibitor displays, instructional seminars and live music were all part of the action.

Banks (Dog), Siera Bautista, John Barnett, and Bean (Dog) Scarlett Pepperman, Scott Harper, and Hannah Beason

Jeff Palmer and Kelly Koenke

Chloe, Derrick, Dena, and Alex Rowe

Larry and Wanona Rackley

Carl and Donna Wegener

Cass Fishbein and Captain Mike O’ Connor

Dylan Shadinger and Abbi Roberts

Joe Majcherek, Steve Gillian, and Steve Hall

Carol Brown and Stacy Crecelius

Photos by Ruili Cai

Jacob and Caitlin Martin

John H. Chapman and Katie Powell

Robin Rogers, Loretta Reecer, and Dave Gatti

Allen, Michelle, and Kyle Flower

Ann Ellis Marks and Andrew Sommers

Todd Bates and Travis Royall

Kayla Stewart and William Nichols

Chase Richardson and Chris Edwards

Kevin Wood and Connor Caldwell Eric Mastry, Gary Pagan, and Blaine Stewart

Justin Williams, Jeffery Baggett, and Chase Richardson

Madison +Matt

They say that love that grows out of friendship is the strongest, and that may be the case for Madison Sanders and Matthew “Houston” Clark. The two met in 2016, as freshmen in college and soon became friends…but there was always something more there.

Story by Liesel Schmidt

Photos by Jennie Tewell Photography

We were in the same friend group and hung out together quite often, so I asked him to a date party the end of freshman year—but just as friends,” says Madison. “Little did I know that he had expressed to some of our other friends that he had a crush on me. The school year ended, but we didn’t keep in touch over the summer. Even so, when we got back to college, we started hanging out and never stopped. I am so happy we got to be friends freshman year, but deep down, I always had a crush on him, too!”

Over the next four years, their mutual “crushes” deepened into love, until Houston took the next step in making their relationship a lasting one. “We were on a beach trip with my family in March of 2021 for my birthday, and the day after, he proposed at Turquoise Place, where we were staying,” Madison recalls. “He had all of our friends and family there to surprise me and celebrate with us that night! It was so special, having all of our closest people there with us. It’s truly a day I will never forget!”

Six months later, they had another unforgettable day, when Madison walked down the aisle at Heron Pointe at the Wharf on December 31, 2021. Wearing a simple gown with a flower at the neck, she

exchanged vows with Houston as 500 of their friends and family gathered to celebrate with them. Vows exchanged and marriage pronounced, the newly married couple joined their guests for a reception and a party as they waited for the year to come to an end and the new to begin.

Dancing—fortified by carb-loading—kept the party going into the wee hours of the newly dawned year. “We had lots of carbs!” Madison laughs. “Pasta, potatoes…and then, late night, we had breakfast biscuits and tacos, which was a huge hit! And then there was the cake, which was fourtiered, with layers of vanilla, strawberry and red velvet, covered in white frosting with flowers. All the food, all the dancing, and all the people who came to be with us—the whole night was amazing! Getting to ring in the new year as husband and wife was so special! And all of our friends had the best time, so the reception didn’t end until well after midnight! It was a magical ending to the whole celebration, watching the fireworks.”

After the fireworks faded, the couple was sent off to honeymoon in St. Lucia, where they stayed at Jade Mountain. “It was the most beautiful place I have ever been,” Madison says.

Home again in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Madison and Houston are looking forward to what the future holds, and happy to be facing it, side by side.

WEDDING PLANNER: Chelsea Crawford

WEDDING VENUE: Heron Pointe at The Wharf

RECEPTION VENUE: Fisher's Upstairs Orange Beach

PHOTOGRAPHY: Jennie Tewell Photography

VIDEOGRAPHY: H & A Video and Design

FLOWERS AND DECOR: Family (Bride's family tradition)

RENTALS AND TENT: SOHO Events and Rentals

CATERER: Ginny Lane Bar and Grill

CAKES:

Sugar House-Custom Cakes

WEDDING GOWN (BRIDAL SALON): Ivory and White | Mountain Brook, AL

WEDDING GOWN (DESIGNER): Lela Rose

BRIDESMAIDS DRESSES: Bella Bridesmaids

GROOM'S & GROOMSMEN'S ATTIRE: It’s a Date | Starkville, MS

ENTERTAINMENT: Accent Band | Montgomery, AL

HAIR & MAKE-UP: Ashley West

INVITATIONS: My Lady Dye

He had all of our friends and family there to surprise me and celebrate with us that night! It was so special, having all of our closest people there with us. It’s truly a day I will never forget!

IN PINK STILLETOS

The Maidens in Pink Stilettos kicked off the Mardi Gras season at their Masquerade Ball held at The Palms at The Wharf. Guests enjoyed heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks while enjoying the music of the Unfortunate Sons. This society was formed so that the ladies of Pleasure Island and surrounding areas could have fun in the Mardi Gras spirit while giving something back to the community.

Marlo Webb, Sunnie Sullivan, and Vanessa Feely

Tracy Anderson, Lynn Watts, Michelle Peterson, and Summer Squires

Danyelle Evans and Michele Meyer

Pie Leonard, Mary Leonard, Lynn Watts, Greg Watts, Grace Scarlett, Tim Scarlett, Edward Dillon, and Ellie Dillon

Melissa Morrison and Terry Quinley

Lynn and Greg Watts

Crisi and Jason McDanal

Mary Graves and Melissa May

Wendy and Sidney Becker

Pam Parker and Wendy Becker

Photos by Ruili Cai

Really Works!

Really Works!

“Working with SOCIAL magazine has been so much fun for not only me but for my team, as well! I appreciate how they’ve been able to understand my brand and vision. Even more I love the energy and enthusiasm I’ve been met with on each project! I’m grateful for our partnership and am excited to bring more ideas to life with this incredibly creative group of people.”

“Working with SOCIAL magazine has been so much fun for not only me but for my team, as well! I appreciate how they’ve been able to understand my brand and vision. Even more I love the energy and enthusiasm I’ve been met with on each project! I’m grateful for our partnership and am excited to bring more ideas to life with this incredibly creative group of people.”

Raven Eno and Jabe Dawe

Cori and Gage Sanders

Brian and Jolene Odom

Angie Wright, Scott Wright, Jenny Hobgood, Blair Hobgood, Wendy Becker, Sidney Becker, Pam Parker, and David Parker

Jamie Gilbert, Crisi McDanal, Laura Langston, Jessica Jackson, and Michelle Peterson

Mike and Regina Morgan Marlo Webb and Sunnie Sullivan

David and Anna Hales

AUDRA MAXWELL OWNER FIREFLIES SALON

- AUDRA MAXWELL OWNER FIREFLIES SALON

JOEY JONES CELEBRITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

Kiva Dunes Resort served as the host for the Joey Jones Celebrity Golf Tournament. Participants enjoyed golf, food, and camaraderie to benefit the ministry of Youth Reach Gulf Coast (YRGC). A distinguished group of celebrity golfers, including professional athletes, coaches, entertainers, and executives joined in on the day. Located in Summerdale, the 24/7 ministry of YRGC provides a Christ-centered home for young men ages 18-22 who want to learn how to become strong men of God.

Playa Del Rio RV Resort hosted the Perdido Key Music Festival, a charity event presented by Sandy Roots Records and Beachbilly Lifestyle, that featured a great lineup of musical talent, food trucks, raffles, and a silent auction full of great items and experiences. All proceeds from the event will be used to support local causes including The Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival, Youth Reach Gulf Coast, High Hopes 4 Autism, Simon Says Run for Cancer, and others.

Cheri Bone and Taylor Keithahn

John Carroll and Kelly Broughton

Andy and Patti Haynes

Debbie Richards, Melinda Schweiter, and Janet Keith

Karen Garrison and Kim Harper

Kay and Ray Moody

Melinda and Herb Schweiter

Beverly Reishus and Judy Neff

Karen and David Coleman

Sean “PeeWee” Tierce and Mark McBride

Photos by Shelley Patterson

Influencer

Gloria Sims Crump was born into the fashion world! Her love for shopping and fashion started while spending her younger years in her mother’s clothing store in Selma, AL. While attending The University of Alabama, Gloria realized she could still purchase similar pieces at a fraction of the cost just by shopping at thrift stores. Now, The Queen of Real Estate is also known as The Queen of Thrift! She loves to showcase her fabulous finds on social media every Thursday: #ThriftyThursday!

 @GLORIA_CRUMP

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GLORIA SIMS CRUMP

Broker/Owner at The Coastal Leaders Realty Group