SOCIAL COASTAL
ORANGE BEACH FREEDOM FEST | FOLEY WITCHES RIDE | NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL
Designers and Product Specialists, at Your Service.
“Over the last 5 years, Stephanie Hale and her team have helped Limitless Homes provide beautiful finishes for dozens of homes each year. As a custom home homebuilder, we strive to provide a personal, tailored experience for each of our clients, and Coastal Stone & Cabinetry partners with us to help achieve just that. Stephanie Minter and Kaileigh Jones provide their expertise to guide our customers in making their dream home visions come true.” -Gina Cox, Limitless Homes
16020 S. GREENO RD, FAIRHOPE | (251) 929-3475 | COASTALSTONEFAIRHOPE.COM
We Make ELECTRIC ...Too. Bevolo’s Patented Batwing Flame TM —————————
Twice the FLAME Half the cost!
bevolo.com • 504.522.9485 • 521 Conti • 304 • 316 • 318 Royal • French Quarter • New Orleans • 68467 Hwy. 59 • Mandeville
SOCIAL COASTAL
From the Editor As the cool temperatures of fall settle in and Thanksgiving approaches, we at Social Coastal Magazine are excited to bring you the latest highlights from our vibrant coastal community.
Maybe you attended The City of Orange Beach Freedom Fest, the beautiful MAAAC GALA, Evening for the Estuaries, or National Shrimp Festival – just to name a few - all exciting opportunities for us to come together as a community for both fun-filled festivities and meaningful causes.
Wishing you all a joyful Thanksgiving filled with warmth, love, and cherished moments.
OCTOBER 2023
As always, we strive to bring you engaging content that reflects the spirit of our coastal lifestyle. We hope you enjoy reading about these exciting happenings as much as we enjoyed covering them.
THE PLACE TO BE SEEN
The November edition of Social Coastal explores individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Read about their passions for what they do and how they strive to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.
SOCIAL COASTAL
ORANGE BEACH FREEDOM FEST | FOLEY WITCHES RIDE | NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL
On the Cover: Foley Witches Ride
Eva Keesee
Editor in Chief
Get Social With Us!
Find Social Coastal on your phone, tablet, or computer! Make sure to subscribe at www.socialcoastalmagazine.com
ONE MISSION IN MIND....
TO PROTECT
OUR EXECUTIVE DEFENSE TEAM CONSISTS OF MILITARY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENTS AS WELL AS TRADE-CRAFT SPECIALISTS
STAY SEVERANCE SAFE! 4
SOCIAL COASTAL
WE HIRE VETS
WHY CHOOSE US
EXECUTIVE PROTECTION EVENT SECURITY VIP PRIVATE EVENTS OFF DUTY POLICE
HIGH VALUE COURIER ESCORT DISASTER SECURITY RELIEF HOA/POA SECURITY PARKING ENFORCEMENT
Timmerman industries
SEVERANCESECURITY.US 3757 GULF SHORES PKWY I GULF SHORES I AL I (251) 333-0308
CO
SOCIAL M
G IN
SO
O
N
PENSACOLA S O C I A L I Z I N G T H R O U G H O U T T H E E M E R A L D C OA S T
Publisher David Renfro Editor-in-Chief Eva Keesee Contributing Editor Melinda McGhee Copy Editor Lana Cagle Staff Writer Liesel Schmidt Graphic Design Lead Designer Brad Growden Kim Mesman & Chris Shenk Social Media & Web Design Jen Meadows Photography Ruili Cai Andrew Crumpton Shelley Patterson, C-Shelz Photography Stephen Savage Photography Wedding Photos Jennie Tewell Photography
V O LU M E 1 · I S S U E 5
Stay Connected:
@Socialcoastalmag
@Socialcoastalmag
@Socialcoastalmag
Home Photos Cacti Palm Productions, Gulf Shores Sales Eva Keesee l 251.979.4278 Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429 David Renfro | 731.499.1414 Social Coastal Magazine www.socialcoastalmagazine.com
6
SOCIAL COASTAL
The views and comments expressed by the authors are not always that of our editors or publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in the publication, Social Coastal accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from the reliance on information in this publication. All images contained in Social Coastal magazine are subject to the copyright of Social Coastal, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.
FLIP. CLICK. TAP. THE BEST OF THE COAST AT YOUR FINGERTIPS SOCIAL
SOCIAL COASTAL
SOCIAL S O L C A I I AL C O S COASTAL
SOCIAL COASTAL
TH E PL
THE PLACE TO BE SEEN
AC E TO BE SE EN
TH E PL AC E TO BE SE EN OCTOBER
OCTOBER 2023
COASTAL C L O A ASTAL T S A O C ORANGE BEACH FREEDOM FEST | FOLEY WITCHES RIDE | NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL
2023
OCTOBER 2023
ORAN
DOM H FREE GE BEAC
DE CHES RI LEY WIT FEST | FO
IVAL MP FEST AL SHRI | NATION
ORANGE BE
ACH FR EEDOM FEST |
FOLEY WITCHES RIDE
| NATIO NAL SH RIMP FE STIVAL
COASTAL
SOCIALCOASTALMAG
SOCIALCOASTALMAG
Contents
NOVEMBER 2023
Features
35 Influencer: Olivia Skipper
45 Social Living: Waterways
57 Supermom: Kimberly Hollis
67 Bride:
32
Amber + Hunter
35 34
12 Community Leader: Desiree Hodge
26 People You Should Know: Penny Groux
32 Impact & Give Back: Toys for Kids
34 S | Art:
12
Janel Hawkins
4
WAYS PRINT ADS HAVE AN EDGE OVER DIGITAL ADVERTISING:
People trust print ads more than digital ads People recall print ads better than digital ads Print ads last longer
Readers engage differently with physical content : In other words: magazine readers actually want to read the ads.
8
SOCIAL COASTAL
Resource : Outreach Media Group
MAK YOUR B E USINES S
P.O.P POWER
OF PRIN
T
LUNG CANCER IS DIFFERENT. So is our approach to fighting it. FIGHT CANCER SMARTER.™
usamci.com | 251.410.1010 Baldwin County | Mobile
Contents
NOVEMBER 2023
Events
51 Evening for the Estuaries Street 54 Chicago Supper Club Social: National 61 Get Shrimp Fest of the Isle 64 Treasures Costume Party
54
15
Foley Witches Ride
22 Freedom Fest 24 Get Social: Witches Ride
72 Ladies Day Out 73 Golf Fore Education Social: Trick or Treat 74 Get with Zeke's Fleet
30 Multi Chamber Social Marina 37 Legendary Topping Off Ceremony
41 MAAAC GALA
T he
22
REAL ESTATE Issue COMING SOON
10
SOCIAL COASTAL
15
61
COMMUNITY LEADER
D
esiree Hodge’s title as the director of the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach means that she is deeply involved in providing the city with arts and cultural enrichment as well as being dedicated to helping provide positive, quality experiences to the community. Over the past ten years of her time in the position, her responsibilities have included overseeing the Arts Center campus which comprises the fine arts gallery, the Hot Shop, the Clay Studio, and the Children's Art Cottage. “Programming and class options are a joint effort with all our staff working together to provide the most interesting and educational experiences we can for our guests,” says Hodge, who will soon also be managing the Waterfront Park adjacent to the Coastal Arts Center.
While Hodge’s professional background admittedly includes very little art, she believes that her organizational skills and business acumen were the reasons she was appointed to the role of executive director. Previous to coming on staff at the Arts Center, Hodge worked in the Georgia University system as executive assistant to the Dean of Continuing Education before arriving in Orange Beach in 2002 and then served as director of the local homeschooling cooperative for eight years. In that capacity, she created numerous class options, utilizing the abundance of retired professors and teachers in the area. As successful as she was, there was still something missing. “My heart has always been in the arts,” she explains. “I grew up with my mother serving as the executive director of a gallery in the Atlanta area. She set a tremendous example for me to follow in the way she worked with artists to create opportunities for their community, and especially for children throughout
ARTAdvocate
Desiree Hodge
The
their county. She recently retired with many accolades for her years of service as she had received many awards and prestigious government appointments for her efforts through the years, and I'm very grateful to have worked with her in her early years because I learned so much from her. When my daughter graduated and left for college, I knew I wanted to get back to work and saw the position for the Arts Center open, and so my journey began. I’d actually taken a position with the Friends of the Arts first as their grant administrator after they received a $500,000 BP grant and needed assistance with the processing of that. Then I was approached by the city for the Art Center position for which I had expressed interest. The two positions really dovetailed nicely.” Having recently celebrated her tenth anniversary as director, Hodge has seen growth and change at the Arts Center over the years and built strong relationships with the creative community in a way that, while being necessary to her job, are nourishing 12
SOCIAL COASTAL
BY LIESEL SCHMIDT
to her soul and her love of the arts. “I have met so many wonderful creative people that have impacted my life in special ways,” she says. “My love of what the arts can give to a community keeps me inspired to do more and find ways to affect positive change. This world needs as much positivity as we can give, and this community is filled with amazing artists.”
Hodge’s favorite events include the Festival of Art each year in March as well as the concerts presented through the Acoustic Arts Series and the Art Center’s partnership with the Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival. “Music is just so good for the soul,” says Hodge. In addition to her work at the Arts Center, Hodge is also the city liaison to the Friends of the Arts and supports the Children's Advocacy Center for Baldwin County. “I used to be a foster parent here, and I know the hard work they do,” she explains. She was recently married to “the most wonderful man that I never expected to meet, and I'm looking forward to more traveling and more music concerts with him in the future,” says Hodge, who has a daughter who lives in Foley, whom she considers her best friend, as well as a foster daughter and son-inlaw with two children. “I count them all as ‘mine,’” she says. In her free time, she enjoys photography, reading, and music of all types— “But mostly, it is my job that gives me great joy and fulfillment.”
S O C I A L COA STA L
TOP CHEFS
& RESTAURATEURS
COMING SOON!
NOVEMBER 2023
13
FOLEY WITCHES RIDE | FOLEY
Lauren Burch, Sara DeSeno, and Brelyn James
Jenny Musgrove and Morgan Julie
Gail Cash and Gina Beck
Susan Randall and Alyssa Forbus
Tiffany Villanova and Sara Witherspoon
Photos by Andrew Crumpton
Foley Witches Ride took place in Downtown Foley to benefit the betterment of local community organizations. This years beneficiaries were Family Promise, Foley Backpack Feeding Program, Turkey Take Out, Foley High School, Foley Middle School, Foley Elementary School, & Florence B Mathis Elementary School. Attendees enjoyed live music, food trucks, and community! Trish Scarpuzzi and Connie Robertson
Cyndi Lazzari and Hannah Smith
Deedee Starace, Wendy Proctor and Christa Norton
Stephanie Toole, Leanne Willis and Shannon Dunlavy
Dianna Okeson and Nancy Woodwork
NOVEMBER 2023
15
FOLEY | FOLEY WITCHES RIDE
Eden Allen, Alexis Pilkington and Karen Miller
Meghan Hudson and Tammy Fleming
Kaci Hart, Abby Cobb and Bryanna Sykes
SOCIAL Katrena Darring and Diane Gilliam
April Wilson, Ashton Wilson and Brittney Alexander
EATON EY DAILEY AND IVY WH YVONNE MCMILLAN, LAC
COMING SOON
Leigh Ann, Kaitlyn Wallace and Paula Boswell
16
SOCIAL COASTAL
SOCIAL COASTAL PRESENTS
TOP CHEFS
&
RESTAURATEURS
Tina Chinn, Lisa Thomas and Mimi Matthews
Monique Parrish, Emma Minton, Laquita Parrish and Jennifer Mathison
Tammy Pierce, Karolyn Reader and Jenny Williams
Melanie Schaff, Tracey Payne and Sara Witherspoon
Megan Lambert and Connie Robertson
Amy Ebert, Ashley Wicklund and Tiffany Villanova
Kristen Wiley, Amanda Jackson, Hannah Green and DeAnne Green
Chrissy Darby and Amber Beavers
Profiles of the BEST of the Gulf Coast’s restaurant industry. for more information: Eva@SocialReallyWorks.com or David@SocialReallyWorks.com NOVEMBER 2023
17
DESIGN. DEFINE.
Discover.
200 SOUTH MCKENZIE STREET | FOLEY, ALABAMA 36535 | 251.943.2941
HOLLISINTERIOR.COM
COMMUNITY BANK GULF SHORES PROJECT BY
ART WORK BY PINK ROOSTER GALLERY, OCEAN SPRING MS // PHOTO CREDIT: SUMMER DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY
ORANGE BEACH | FREEDOM FEST
Jay Springstee, Louis Kourt, and Danny Sullivan
Dale Johnson and Kelli Cefalu
Misti and Lane Savoie
Emily Clark and Jake McMahon
Hannah Roberts and Chris Sanders
Rich and Nicole Etheridge
Josh Lopez and Robin Guidry
Photos by Andrew Crumpton
The 3rd Annual Orange Beach Freedom Fest and Bama Coast Cruisin’ Car Show returned to the coast to showcase vintage and classic cars. Main Street was lined with activities, information, arts and crafts, and vendor booths for festival goers to enjoy.
Alex, Ellie, and Evan Higgins
22
SOCIAL COASTAL
Jimmy and Jackie Whitehead
Taylor, Emily, Georgia, and Jared Ashley
Brittany Pace, Susan Smith, and Todd Smith
Danielle and Bud McCrory
James Ping, Chandler Ping, and Dale Collier
Michelle Hite and Matt Finklea
Reginald and Carla Williams
NOVEMBER 2023
23
FOLEY WITCHES RIDE Photos by Stephen Savage
24
SOCIAL COASTAL
FOLEY WITCHES RIDE Photos by Stephen Savage
OCTOBER 2023
25
PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW
PASSION CHANGES EVERYTHING! By Liesel Schmidt
PENNY GROUX
While some people put in so many hours at the office that they “practically live at work,” Penny Groux literally lived at Perdido Beach Resort during the week for the first 13 years she worked for the company. On weekends, she would drive home to her husband and kids in Huntsville, Alabama, to spend time with them. “The hotel truly has been a ‘home away from home’ for a long time,” says Groux, who joined the staff at Perdido Beach Resort in 2000.
In 2013, when both of Groux’s daughters finished school and her husband was able to get the house sold, the couple officially moved to Orange Beach to stay. “What’s not to love?” poses Groux, whose husband, Karl, is now general manager at the hotel. “I live at the beach, I have a terrific job, I get to work with family and extended family, and no two days are alike.” Indeed, they are not. Over the course of her career, Groux has worked her way through a number of positions, first starting as a technical recruiter for Intergraph and moving up through the ranks to become the executive director of Worldwide Corporate Human Resources, responsible for all HR functions across the globe. “It really was an awesome job,” Groux notes. “However, my number one commitment was to the founders of the company, who also happened to be the owners of Perdido Beach Resort. I basically followed them here and went from high-tech to high-touch.” Since joining the resort 23 years ago, she’s held numerous titles, though her primary role was initially to oversee human resources. In 2016, she became director of corporate affairs. “Currently, the challenge is having enough hours in the day to get
26
SOCIAL COASTAL
everything done,” she says. “After 23 years here, however, I suppose I bring a lot of institutional knowledge as well as relationships I have developed locally and throughout the state of Alabama. The hotel has changed greatly over this period of time, and we are constantly looking for ways to improve and for ways to give back to the community. I led the ‘give back’ charge about 11 years ago because the hotel wasn’t involved on any level outside our building. Since Karl’s arrival as our General Manager, however, this commitment has grown exponentially and now we are involved not only in local charity events, but statewide events as well. In two decades, Groux has seen a number of shifts—in life, in her work, in the world. Challenges that affected the economy, tourism, the corporate landscape, and the job market. Changes that simplified life at the same time as they complicated it. Yet through it all, she has maintained a love for her work that makes her a strong leader of her team. “It’s easy to be passionate if you enjoy working in an environment that is different every day,” she says. “A person must love what they are doing because we are relating to customers or potential customers all the time. The face of every one of our team members is the ‘face of the hotel,’ and, honestly, we have a lot of very passionate people here, which is critical to our success. The team at Perdido Beach Resort is like extended family, and I sincerely love them dearly. Our average team member has been with us over 15 years, so we’ve spent a lot of time together, and those relationships and love for our work are what make us who we are as a company.” In addition to her husband being a member of the hotel team, Groux’s youngest daughter, Jessie, works as the director of revenue management and marketing. Her eldest daughter, Jenny, lives in Virginia and works for the US Patent Office in Washington, DC.
NOVEMBER 2023
27
30
SOCIAL COASTAL
Come Have a Ball at the Beach!
VACATION RENTAL MANAGEMENT & FULL SERVICE REAL ESTATE NOVEMBER 2023
31
IMPACT & GIVE BACK
A
GALA of GIVING BY LIESEL SCHMIDT
IT ALL STARTED IN 2012 WITH A BICYCLE. Or rather, a lack of them.
At the time, co-owners of Orange Beach-based Wildflowers Boutique and mother-daughter team Terri Long and Candice Duncan, had heard that Christian Service Center would be short on bicycles for their holiday toy drive and wanted to help. “Candice and I had already been involved with CSC for two years, starting with their Angel Tree Program that we supported at our boutique,” Long explains. “We knew when we started Wildflowers together that 32
SOCIAL COASTAL
we wanted to give back to the community together, as well. When we heard about the need for bicycles that year, we pitched an idea to the owner of Fisher’s Dockside to allow Wildflowers to host a small fashion show during Locals’ Night and charge a $25 donation at the door for ‘Bikes for Kids,’ as the drive was called at that time. With that $25 at donation at the door combined with people donating bikes, we raised over 250 bikes that night for the CSC.”
Energized and encouraged by that success, Long and Duncan decided that they would continue the bicycle drive as an annual event. Over the next three
years, Wildflowers Boutique and Fisher’s Dockside continued in partnership—and then, they outgrew the space. “Candice and I were approached by Karl Groux of Perdido Beach Resort, who asked us to allow him to help us to build this event into something even bigger by changing up the venue to their Grand Ballroom.”
And so, the beginnings of the annual Toys for Kids Local Charity Gala were taking shape. Now fully realized into a fun, glamorous event, the gala offers a unique experience that also benefits a very worthy cause. “When people come to the event, they’ll
from our local community,” Long notes. “Our hearts are so in love with this program that does so much for our community, and it shines through in every step. It takes everyone coming together to make this event what it is. We are so passionate about supporting the CSC because of their mission and the people involved in seeing that mission through. They are such blessings to our community, and most of them have volunteered there for over ten years with no pay. They could be doing anything, but they choose to be of service to God and their community through the CSC. see a beautiful sold-out room in the Perdido Beach Grand ballroom along with a fashion show, great food, live music, silent and live auctions, and a sense of giving back,” says Long of the gala, held this year on November 11 from 6:30 pm until 10:30 pm. “It's a great time, for a great cause!”
“When CSC assists a family with rent, utilities, or food, that most definitely blesses children with a roof over their heads, power on in the house, and food on the table,” she goes on. “Support for and participation in this fundraiser can do so much for children in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan. It is only through donations and fundraisers that the Over the past ten years, a total of over $500K has been raised all-volunteer CSC can assist families in need. This spectacular at the November event, plus an enormous number of toys event draws over 375 local supporters and is by far the largest collected. Now, the money goes towards the Christmas Cheer fundraiser for CSC. One hundred percent of all ticket and program, providing toys for more than 500 children each year. auction proceeds go to CSC, and we’re so incredibly proud The gala’s profits also fund other children’s programs within of what we have been able to give this amazing organization the CSC. Last year, the event raised over $190,000 for the CSC. over the past decade and humbled by what they do.” “We’ve grown this event into an annual gala that has lasted more than a decade through the commitment and support
For more information on tickets, visit wildflowersboutiqueob.com. wildflowersboutiqueob.com.
YOUR LOCAL GULF COAST EXPERT S E L L I N G R E S I D E N T I A L & CO M M E RC I A L P RO P E RT I E S F RO M T H E EAST E R N S H O R E TO T H E B EAC H
AMBER BROWN
REALTOR® | ROBERTS BROTHERS, INC. 251-533-9255 | A M B E R B R O W N @ R O B E R T S B R O T H E R S . C O M NOVEMBER 2023
33
SAND CASTLE UNIVERSITY @SAND_CASTLE_UNIVERSITY @SANDCASTLEU @SAND_CASTLE_UNIVERSITY
JANEL HAWKINS Janel Hawkins, local sculptor and entrepreneur, is raising the bar. As an artist living her dream, Janel's love of the Gulf Coast is shown through creativity in sand. Her creations can be spotted along our beaches, delighting those who are fortunate enough to come across them before they vanish forever. Janel's sand-sculpting expertise is not just for her alone. Through Sand Castle University, people of all ages can learn to create their own sand masterpieces. Whether you're interested in a custom sculpture or simply enjoying a group activity, Janel can make the impossible possible – all with the power of...sand! 34
SOCIAL COASTAL
photos: JANEL HAWKINS AND 6AM DIGITAL
WWW.SANDCASTLEU.COM
Influencer
OLIVIA SKIPPER LIVING Mom I Entrepreneur I Designer I Lover of Fashion
Photography by: LT Photography and Brittany Bell Photography
livia Skipper of Orange Beach, AL has carved a niche for herself in the fashion and design industry by creating spaces that blend modern minimalism with coastal aesthetics, setting her apart as an innovative designer who brings beauty and functionality into every space she creates.
@OLIVIASKIPPERLIVING
Inspired by her travels around the world with her husband and her experience as a dedicated mom to three beautiful girls, Olivia’s impressive portfolio of new-builds and styling services continues to make waves in the fashion and interior design industry.
2.1k
O
10.5k
FOLLOWERS
@OLIVIA SKIPPER FOLLOWERS
OLIVIASKIPPERLIVING.COM NOVEMBER 2023
35
Coming Soon
TO GULF SHORES FEBRUARY 2024
The Fun Starts Here
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOR DRY STORAGE AND WET SLIPS DRY BOAT STORAGE UP TO 50FT, WET DOCKAGE UP TO 65FT
EASY ACCESS Avoid the no wake zone with quick access to Morgan Pass and only 1.2 miles from Jack Edwards Airport PREMIUM SECURITY 24-hour security monitored and hurricane rated dry boat storage STAY AND PLAY Enjoy Indoor/Outdoor Dining, A Refreshing Pool, Clubhouse, Live Entertainment, and More!
LIMITED TIME OFFER FOR DRY STORAGE: UP TO 4 MONTHS FREE!*
Margaritaville Coming to Legendary Marina & Yacht Club!
*VISIT WEBSITE FOR DETAILS.
Scan QR to Make a Reservation and View Rates Legendary Marina & Yacht Club 335 Waterway W Blvd Gulf Shores, AL 36542 legendarygulfshores 850-424-6689 legendarymarinagulfshores.com
TOPPING OFF CEREMONY | GULF SHORES
Peter Bos, Chris Bos, and David Coyle
Brook Jones and Jacon Clabo
Felescie Chubbs and Jo Ann Knowles
TOPPING OFF CEREMONY Jennifer Williams and Kellie Steele
Bruce Vredenburg and Michelle Boerstler
Photos by Andrew Crumpton
Legendary Marina & Yacht Club invited the community to celebrate a historical moment in construction as they raised the final beam. The Topping Off Party was kicked off with celebratory refreshments and gave attendees the opportunity to explore the construction site with guided tours. Plans for a Margaritaville Restaurant and Hotel were unveiled to complement the plans for the new Waterway Village Development. Lynne Darden, Keith Wilson, and Deanna Wilson
Adam Martin and Nathan Cox
Charles Duncan and Tyler Hayes
Tracey and Mark Cato
Noel Hand, Blake Phelps, and Steve Griffin
NOVEMBER 2023
37
GULF SHORES | TOPPING OFF CEREMONY
Kristy and Darrell Smith
Glenn and Terry Bass
Kyle Nadrowski and Ryan Boudreaux
Dallas Wood, Scott Mattei, and Philip Harris
Derek Lewis and Terri Bos
April Shackelford and William Frank
Jeremy Holcomb, Shane Strause, and David Cadenhead
Pete Knowles and Greg Darden
John and Ramona Olcott
38
Hunter and Sharon Waite
SOCIAL COASTAL
Garett Kelley and Zac Cordova
Kim Jones, Todd Walton, and Easton Colvin
Connie Bonner, Janie Mikloucich, and Rick Helmick
Traci and Willie Hoven
Adam Campbell, Drew Dolan, and Cameron Thatcher
Ward Luis and Brett Sanders
Stephen and Vanessa Teeple
Now Located At The Wharf! Marketing Public Relations Web Design & SEO Social Media
reddoormarketingagency.com | 866.234.8777
Brook Jones CEO / Founder
4830 Wharf Pkwy W, Suite G-106, Orange Beach, AL NOVEMBER 2023
39
PHOENIX SOUTH POINT
PHOENIX GULF TOWERS
Justin A. Pate REALTOR®/ Sales Associate
Over half a billion dollars under construction paid for by cash buyers.
PHOENIX KEY
40 years in business and 28 towers built. “Unparalleled on the gulf coast.” One of the top agents for the top developer on the gulf coast. PHOENIX GULF SHORES II
Brett/Robinson Real Estate 24325 Perdido Beach Blvd. | Orange Beach, AL 36561
JustinPateRealtor@Gmail.com | (251) 233-2290
MAAAC FUNDRAISING GALA | ORANGE BEACH
Chris and Amanda Dickens
Ty and Leah Cowan
Kayley and Josh Hoyle
Dan and Amanda Vogel
Owen Nordan and Gabrielle Napier
Photos by Shelley Patterson
The Makos Academics, Arts, and Athletics Club (MAAAC) hosted its 4th Annual MAAAC Gala and Silent Auction in the Grand Ballroom of Perdido Beach Resort. Attendees enjoyed the atmosphere, dining, and music provided by Fuego. MAAAC is a non-profit of volunteers who work together to raise donations for all the Makos athletic sports, art clubs, and academic programs held throughout each school year. Judy and Danny Kruse
Lindsey and Gary Pearce
Cam and Cam Price
Madge and Brent Williamson
Kasandra Stuart, Robert Stuart and Misty Payne
NOVEMBER 2023
41
ORANGE BEACH | MAAAC FUNDRAISING GALA
Karen Atkins and Mike Harley
Daniel and Mary Kate Lantrip
Eric and Meagan West
Brandon and Kristen Rayborn
ZIMMERMAN, AND ERIKA CAPRI, SHANDIE
Coach and Kellie Steele
SHELLY MCINNIS
COMING SOON
Gerald Hughes, Melinda Hughes, Yolanda Johnson, and Jerry Johnson
42
SOCIAL COASTAL
ON THE COAST
ALL THINGS BOATS
Casey and Crystal Tomecek
Josh Hoyle and Steve Devoursney
Tony, Elena and Rob Morales
John and Amy Holliday
Krista and Rocky Rowlett
Jessica Lazzarino, Neeli Faulkner, and Kolo Wilkinson
Lisa and David Nix
Mike and Jenna Coates
M
A
GA
ZIN
E NOVEMBER 2023
43
SOCIAL LIVING
STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY BY CACTI PALM PRODUCTIONS
A
s part of a new community of newly built homes, this 60-lot subdivision offers eight floorplans with large windows and a choice of three to four bedrooms and square footage ranging from 2300 to 3664. The homes are designed in a Modern Coastal style with a European flair, featuring exteriors of painted white brick with urban bronze Hardiplank, stained Cypress wood and copper accents.
Built on 20 acres of pristine land along the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores, Alabama, Waterways is an upscale, private, gated community offering 60 exclusive homesites and a wide range of amenities. Homeowners enjoy access to a private marina, boat launch and fenced boat storage, wooded walking trails, a community pool and outdoor cooking and dining facilities. Waterways also provides lawn maintenance and irrigation supply for each private residence, creating a community that encourages living a carefree lifestyle. NOVEMBER 2023
45
SOCIAL LIVING
Each home offers customizations such as engineered hardwood and tile flooring, and fabulous kitchens make cooking and entertaining enjoyable, with large islands, custom floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and stainless-steel appliance suites including dual fuel ranges and icemakers. Screened-in porches create a relaxing space to spend mornings or evenings and are sure to be a favorite. The master suites in all of the homes gracious, with high ceilings, wide baseboards and walk-in closets with custom built-ins, giving homeowners a sanctuary for escaping the day.
46
SOCIAL COASTAL
CO UNTERTOPS
|
FLOORING
|
CABINETS
Transform Your Home This Fall With Premier Remodeling
Open Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday by appointment
HomeDC.com 844-422-HOME 11746 Foley Beach Express
Special Financing
72-hour installation on in-stock countertops 2 week turnaround on in-stock cabinets
> 24-months Interest Free/same as cash* > Foley Showroom Open to Public > Need a quick turnaround? Ask about in-stock cabinets and in-stock granite. granite. *Up to 24-months financing available for qualified buyers
Scan for more info!
Learn More
SOCIAL LIVING
48
SOCIAL COASTAL
A joint venture of The Fortis Company with leadership and inspiration coming from Ercil Godwin of Sawgrass, the Waterways community was created with a vision of bringing the 30A, European inspiration to Gulf Shores and to offer something different to anything else in the area, capitalizing on the peaceful, pristine location.
2904 Straits Blvd. Gulf Shores, AL 36542 251-504-2388 info@waterwaysgs.com www.waterwaysgs.com
NOVEMBER 2023
49
EVENING FOR THE ESTUARIES GALA | ORANGE BEACH
Darryl Boudreau and Chips Kirschenfeld
Dustin Ridgway and Victoria Lawrence
Judy Haner and Matthew Posner
Emily and Woody Speed
Whitney Scheffel and Katie Baltzer
Photos by Ruili Cai
The Pensacola & Perdido Bays Estuary Program’s first annual Evening for the Estuaries Gala at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach was an evening filled with live music, drinks, hors d’oeuvres (including oysters!), a silent auction, and giving back to the waters we call home. Mike Thomin and Nicole Grinnan
Casey Fearon and Charlene Mauro
Fred and Blair Garth
Desiree Hodge, Joni Blalock and Tracy Holiday
Jacey Cosentino and Vernon Compton
NOVEMBER 2023
51
ORANGE BEACH | EVENING FOR THE ESTUARIES GALA
Jeanette Kelson and Becky Prado
Jeff and Sharon Posner
Kate and Jarrod Dawson
Jill and Grover Robinson, Shannon and Mike Kohler (Commissioner District 2)
Whitney Fike, Kayla Stanley and Laurie McLain
Ron and Heather Pingrey
52
SOCIAL COASTAL
Samantha Bolduc and Jimmy Pitts
Jeff Barrett and Marissa Taylor
Ted Reese, Eric Schneider, Vernon Compton and Mack Thetfrod
Julie Parsons, Haley Gancel and Molly McDaniel
Kelly and Kyle Buck
Jane Herndon and Phillip West
Brandon and Kiersten Jarvis
Logan McDonald and Tim Sullivan
Jason and Stephanie Wilkins
Emily and Woody Speed
24820 Canal Road | Orange Beach, Al | melaniemartininteriors.com | (251) 981-1080 NOVEMBER 2023
53
FOLEY | CHICAGO STREET SUPPER CLUB
Adam and Bailey Stitt
Ursula and Daniel Thompson
Casey and Christina Buckner
Sara Navarro, Jayson Walker, and Brent Walker
Marc Crawford and Winston McQuitery
Photos by Ruili Cai
South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Chicago Street Supper Club in the heart of downtown Foley on North Chicago Street. This event featured a four-course meal prepared by top local chefs and the guests are treated to a well-curated menu with amazing wine selections. The Chamber hosts this event to bring the community together, one bite at a time. Ryan and Alvita Simmons
Vince and Brooke Johnson
54
SOCIAL COASTAL
Amy and Charlie Ebert
Brenton and Crawford McWilliams
Bob and Samantha McDowell
Sommer Miller, Steve Miller, Alysha Miller, and Chris Miller
Georgianna and Matt Snowden
Gordon and Charlene Doody
Unni Amundsen, Tom Johansson, Nick Wilmott, and Donna Owen
Greg Rawls, Kristin Hellmich, Meredith South, and Josh South
NOVEMBER 2023
55
It’s Your Confidence Let Us Help you Find It
Botox Juvederm Versa Lips RF Microneedling Laser Liposuction Hair Removal Incontinence Kegel Chair Body Contouring Skin Rejuvenation Tattoo Removal Medical Weight Loss Manage Hormones AND MORE
DR. JUDY CORBETT MD. FACOG NOVEMBER 27 2023 I CYBER MONDAY half price GIFT CARD SALE ONE DAY ONLY SCAN THE QR CODE ABOVE FOR INFO
www.baldwingyn.com 251.424.1100 I 1506 N. McKenzie Street Suite 104 I FOLEY I AL 36535
SUPERMOM
SUPER
MOM
BY LIESEL SCHMIDT
Kimberly Hollis is the mother of three extremely accomplished young adults. Her eldest, Charlie is pre-med at Huntingdon College in Montgomery and signed on to play football for the school. Henley, her middle child, will graduate at the top of his class from Gulf Shores High School in May of 2024 with plans to go to Samford University— not to mention his active involvement on the United Way of Baldwin County Youth Board, attendance at Boys’ State, and his local representation at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership. Her daughter, Portia, is a school ambassador at Gulf Shores High School in addition to being active in the theater department and numerous clubs, a children’s church leader at Gulf Shores Methodist Church, part of the competition team at The Studio in Daphne and Miss Jubilee’s Teen, as well as placing in the top-15 as part of the Miss Alabama Organization. All of these are reasons for her to be tremendously proud. The fact that she raised such accomplished young adults as a single mother is even more reason.
Kimberly
The kindergarten teacher has been on staff at Orange Beach Elementary since it opened its doors in 1997, starting her first year as a third-grade teacher before moving to kindergarten. More than 20 years into her career, what makes her an incredible teacher is her love for children. “My favorite part of kindergarten is that five-year-olds are open to learning everything,” Hollis says. “They are so inquisitive and excited about making connections >> and realizing they can do so much! I love
Hollis
NOVEMBER 2023
57
SUPERMOM
“I want my children to remember that I was ‘all in’ on everything they did”
being the person who gets to see their eyes light up when they read their first word or first book or write their first sentence. It’s so magical and rewarding.”
PHOTO: BEACH SHUTTER PHOTOGRAPHY
Of course, as much as she is there for other children, she has always made making her own children feel seen and taken care of a priority—even though it hasn’t always been simple. “As a single mother of three, juggling motherhood and working outside the home has not been easy,” she admits. “The school activities and the extracurricular activities for three kids, plus not wanting to limit what they can participate in, allowing them to find their passions, and wanting them to be well rounded has made my calendar beyond full. There have been days when I showed up to work overwhelmed, exhausted, and running on empty and not sure if I could make it all happen for everyone that day, just to be met with coworkers and students who loved me just as I was, giving me the positivity I needed. There have been times when I have sent my kids to school and later wondered if I had signed all the papers that I was supposed to, if I’d packed the correct lunch in the correct lunchbox, and if they even had all they needed for the school day or the activities they had after school. I know I have missed a lot over the years, but I tried very hard to make great memories with them whenever I could. Since their first days of kindergarten all the way to now, I try to stick surprises in their lunchboxes throughout the year just to make a regular day a little more special and to let them know I’m thinking of them.” Looking at the family she has raised, Hollis has both pride and humility for who they are and how they got there. “I dreamt of the all-American family growing up and never imagined I would be raising three children alone,” she says. “I would not be where I am today without the most amazing parents, Ed and Carol Solomon. I have been blessed to have parents who modeled for both me and my three children the importance of faith, family, love, service,
58
SOCIAL COASTAL
and integrity, but most of all, work ethic. My circumstances may not necessarily align with what I had always envisioned, but I am right where God has called me to be.” With children who are almost grown, Hollis hopes that they never doubt her devotion to them. “I want my children to remember that I was ‘all in’ on everything they did,” she says. “I supported their differences and wanted them each individually to believe in and realize how special they are. I believed in them completely, and I pushed them because I knew their future was going to be incredible and they could do great things.”
Treatment As Unique As You Are Each patient is different. We’ll work to find the specific course of treatment that’s best for you. We want our patients to feel confident treating their varicose veins. Our process is simple — it starts with an online screening or you can give us a call.
Christopher J. Bosarge, M.D.
Board Certified in Diagnostic & Interventional Radiology
CoastalVeinInstitute.com | (850) 912-8249 NOVEMBER 2023
59
FAIRHOPE FURNITURE Consignment & Designer Retail
“findings for your home”
Follow us on Facebook! @FairhopeFurnitureConsignment 458a N Section St | Fairhope, AL 251.928.3133
Experience
THE WARMTH AND HOSPITALITY OF SUGAR SANDS REALTY Vacation Rentals, Property Sales and Association Management
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
As the premier choice for beachfront getaways, we take pride in providing exceptional service and creating an experience that goes beyond your expectations.
When you rent with Sugar Sands Realty, you become part of our family
22991 PERDIDO BEACH BLVD, ORANGE BEACH 251.974.1672 | SUGSANDS.COM
NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL Photos by Andrew Crumpton
For over 50 years this volunteer-driven event has been a tradition on the beautiful beaches of Coastal Alabama. Food, music, art, and so much more made up an action packed weekend with nearly 250,000 in attendance.
OCTOBER 2023
61
®
62
SOCIAL COASTAL
THE GOLF CART EXPERTS TWO LOCATIONS IN FAIRHOPE: 23801 US-98 & 111 S SECTION ST | 251.517.7974 | HMGOLFCARTSALES.COM NOVEMBER 2023
63
ORANGE BEACH | TREASURE OF THE ISLE COSTUME PARTY
Ana and Chris Connolly
Pam Law and Paul Price
y t r a P e m u Cost
Debbie Noonin, Lisa Barfield and Louie Barfield
Kellie and Barry Burks
Kevin Geri and Mary Muhe
Photos by Andrew Crumpton
The 9th annual Treasure of the Isle Costume Conte st was held in the heart of Orange Beach at the Event Center. Attendees grooved to live music by The Groovinators, and were entered into the cash prize contests for Best Male, Female, Couple, and Group costumes. There was also a prize for best decorated table. Patsy and Rich Young
Linda and Brian Connolly
64
SOCIAL COASTAL
Beth Bundy and Patricia Mendoza
Marcia Below and Theresa Brasfield
Bernadette Dolessharmon, Romero Donnelly and Deema Donnelly
Justina Ralston and Alex Martin
Laura Elliott and Melynda Hicks
Lily Gathings and Ken Nuton
Jackie and Jimmy Whitehead
Diana and Fred Armstrong
Dianne McEllroy, Kaleigh McElroy, Wendy McElroy and Robin Watson
Rachel Deerman and Taresa Deerman
Les Gueydan, Pam Davidson and Rickey Davidson
Gail and McKinnely Ephriams
Grant Riley and Kella Bates
Karen and Ross Whiteworth
Donna and Ricky Bagwell
NOVEMBER 2023
65
25814 CANAL RD SUITE 7 ORANGE BEACH,AL 36561 251-970-2060 & THE WHARF 4851 WHARF PKWY SUITE D-112 ORANGE BEACH, AL 36561 251-424-1709 WWW.FRANKCOOBA.CO I INFO@FRFANKCOOBA.CO CARTIER - JB STAR - OMEGA - CUSTOM JEWELRY - ROLEX PRE-OWNED
OCTOBER 2023
67
68
SOCIAL COASTAL
OCTOBER 2023
69
70
SOCIAL COASTAL
FOLEY | LADIES DAY OUT
Kate Norris, Sarah Harper, and Amanda Kelly
Victoria Hattemar and Gaylene Hess
Nancy Dickhute and Susan Powrie
Amie Rogers, Jennifer Lambert, and Gaye Butler
Barbara Malugen and Helen Williams
Photos by Ruili Cai
Ladies Day Out was a huge success as area physicians, Dr. Judy Corbett, and Dr. Robert Brown shared important information that can help women live longer, healthier lives. Too Hot Mamas hosted a fashion show and local vendors offered everything from permanent jewelry to beauty services. Melanie Deters and Peggy McNeely
Debbie Andrews and Pam Monore
72
SOCIAL COASTAL
Cyndi Honeycutt and Kathy Siegling
Nancy McMeekin, Teresa McKenzie, and Betty Boone
Ingrid Hanson and Pam Harris
GOLF FORE! EDUCATION | FOLEY
Ben Catlin and Jim Stewart
Ed Bushaw and Bill Tunnel
David Lee, Aaron Callaway, and Todd Koniar
Photos by Andrew Crumpton
Matt Pierce, Parker Ellis, and Brian Jones
Derek Thieme and James Fisher
The South Baldwin Chamber Foundation partnered with Glen Lakes Golf Club to host the 3rd Annual Golf FORE! Education golf tournament. Players enjoyed fun and games on the course in addition to a silent auction throughout the day. This tournament raises funds for the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation which supports local schools through programs and partnerships that enrich education, develop leadership, and better the community. Philip McKibbin and Carroll Shawver
Jennifer King and Debora Logel
Chad Watkins and Bobby McNair
Shane Melton, Kelly Rosson, Frank Leatherwood, and Finley leatherwood
Dewane Hayes and Caleb Davis
NOVEMBER 2023
73
SOCIAL ST WINNER “BARBIE” FLEET CONTE
TRICK OR TREAT WITH ZEKE’S FLEET Zeke’s Marina in Orange Beach hosted their “Trick or Treat with Zeke’s Fleet,” with the marina’s charter boats adorned with Halloween decorations & offering kids a unique trickor-treating experience. Children went boat to boat collecting treats and encountering a few tricks along the way. It was an amazing unique experience for kids of all ages.
74
SOCIAL COASTAL