EASTERN SHORE
From the Editor
We are so excited about our inaugural Health and Wellness Issue. Featuring profiles of talented individuals representing over a dozen medical specialties, this issue highlights their contributions to our community’s health and well-being. Additionally, we shine a spotlight on remarkable local wellness-focused businesses dedicated to helping you live your best life.
Our event coverage has something for everyone, from golf tournaments to galas. We are delighted to include so many vibrant faces of our community enjoying themselves and supporting wonderful causes. Don’t miss the stunning array of dresses worn by the ladies at the Masquerade Ball hosted by the Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation and join us in celebrating the groundbreaking of Bayside Academy’s new middle school building. We hope you enjoy checking out these events and others as much as we enjoyed capturing them.
As always, we are honored that our editorial pieces recognize some great people in our community who are making a difference. The subject of this issue’s Impact & Give Back feature, Thomas Hospital Foundation, is hosting a preeminent event for our community later this month. We can’t wait to share the 36th Annual Grand Summer Ball and so much other great content in September’s Real Estate Issue.
Melinda McGhee Managing Editor Alabama
EASTERN SHORE
the Cover: Dr. Jerry Dixon and Alison Trawick, Tommy Merrick and Shannon Baldwin
by
Cover Photo
Ruili Cai
Lifestyle design, waterscape inspired... with a fresh & salty point of view.
Lifestyle design, waterscape inspired... with a fresh & salty point of view.
Lifestyle design, waterscape inspired... with a fresh & salty point of view.
Alexander City, AL | Destin, FL | Spanish Fort, AL
Alexander City, AL | Destin, FL | Spanish Fort, AL
Alexander City, AL | Destin, FL | Spanish Fort, AL
Publisher
David Renfro
Managing Editor Alabama
Melinda McGhee
Graphic Design
Lead Designer Kim Mesman
Chris Shenk
Brad Growden
Social Media Manager
Megan Stearman
Web Design
Chris Shenk
Photography
Ruili Cai
Andrew Crumpton
Cindy McCrory
Holly McKinney
Stephen Savage
Wedding Photography
Kara Beth Carr Photography
Social Living Photography
Kyle Lowry
Sales
Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429
Emily Klyce Hansen | 251.583.2309
Weslyn Walters | 251.895.4563
David Renfro | 731.499.1414
Eva Keesee | 251.979.4278
Social Eastern Shore Magazine www.socialeasternshore.com
Stay Connected: @SocialEasternShoreMagazine@SocialEasternShore 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 Eastern Shore 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 Eastern Shore magazine are subject to the copyright of Social Eastern Shore, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited. Scan the QR code to visit our website
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COMMUNITY leader
Dr. Bryan PIERCE Leading with
The role of Baldwin County Coroner demands critical thinking, thorough training, and a compassionate demeanor. Dr. Brian Pierce exemplifies these qualities, ensuring the office runs efficiently and with empathy.
The mission of Dr. Pierce’s office is clear: “To accurately determine the cause and manner of death to provide details for law enforcement and help bring closure to families. To establish and maintain cooperative, professional relationships with community partners. To assist the bereaved in the loss of their loved ones. To earn and hold the trust and respect of the citizens that the Coroner’s Office is privileged and honored to serve.”
Starting in May 2010 as a Deputy Coroner, Dr. Pierce became Chief Deputy Coroner in 2017 and achieved national certification from the American Board of Medicolegal Death Investigators (ABMDI) in 2018. Elected Baldwin County Coroner in January 2019, he led the office to national accreditation from the International Association of Coroners and Medical Examiners (IACME) in 2021, making it one of only two in Alabama. He has served as Vice President of the Alabama Coroners Association and chairs the Alabama Coroners Training Commission. He also contributes to the IACME’s Strategic Planning Committee.
Compassion & Innovation
Dr. Pierce finds fulfillment in serving others and solving problems. One of his significant challenges has been managing the increasing caseload due to Baldwin County’s population growth. His office has risen to the challenge by successfully improving office communications, developing a case management system, and optimizing staff efficiency while ensuring the staff maintains a good work-life balance.
The Coroner’s Office has addressed the escalating drug crisis in the county by implementing oral swabs for presumptive drug screens at death scenes. “We’ve recently acquired a Randox multistat analyzer,” said Dr. Pierce. “It allows us to identify what drugs are in a decedent and give an amount of the drug. So, it gives us an opportunity to do surveillance on the decedent to help our law enforcement officers. We may be one of the first Coroner’s offices in the state to utilize this to try to battle the drug problem that we have here.” Using this technology expedites decisionmaking and reduces body transports, saving money and allowing for quicker family releases.
Beyond his professional life, Dr. Pierce is deeply rooted in the Baldwin County community. He moved to the area in 1987, graduated from Robertsdale High School in 1988, Auburn University in 1992, and Palmer College of Chiropractic in 1996. Married to Kristina Hinote Pierce for 31 years, they have three adult daughters and one granddaughter. Dr. Pierce enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with friends.
GEORGE LOUKATOS MDS
FOUNDER | OWNER
ALPHACARE
URGENT CARE
Tell us a little bit about your practice.
As an emergency room physician, it was not uncommon for me to see patients who had been referred to the emergency department from a physician's office or urgent care center that clearly had injuries or ailments that could have been cared for in the outpatient setting. When I founded AlphaCare, one of my main goals was to provide services like X-rays, IV fluids, and laceration repair that would save my patients from a costly and extended visit to the local ER. We are also the only urgent care center in the area that stays open until 8 pm 7 days a week. We know that accidents and illnesses are not scheduled, and it’s important to be available when our patients need us, not just during normal business hours. When you add that convenience to the efficiency and customer service that our staff focuses on, I think you really have a game-changer for the health care needs of the community.
What advice would you give aspiring medical professionals? Having now practiced medicine for over 25 years, I have really come to appreciate and understand the level of trust that patients put in their medical providers. It’s really a true honor to be given that level of trust, and it’s something that should be taken very seriously. While things may not always go as smoothly or efficiently as we would like, the effort to do everything you can to do what’s right for your patients is what will allow you to hold your head high in both your practice and your community.
Open 7 Days A Week | 8AM-8PM
(L to R): Zackary Beaver-FNP, Lauren Niemeyer-FNP, George Loukatos MD, Ashley Guy-PA, Michael Liljegren-PA
credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room
AlphaCare Urgent Care has brought a new and superior option for the health care needs of the Eastern Shore. Our mission is to provide you with the best quality health care at an affordable price, when you need it most.
The 5th annual Masquerade Ball at Daphne Civic Center hosted by Anchor Cross Cancer Foundation boasted great live music, food, drinks, as well as silent and live auctions. Supporters and community members from across the Gulf Coast “masked out” cancer for one night at this fundraising event, celebrating local cancer survivors and those still fighting.
Photos by Ruili Cai
Julie Hagen and Stacie Bankston
Kristi McGill, Sarah Sullivan and Kelly Montgomery
Jessie Patton and Alex Williams
Jonathan and Samantha Simmons
Tommy Merrick and Shannon Baldwin
Chris and Holly Alman, Ashley and Marc Semmes
Jennifer Patronsky and Robert Jur
Mayor Robin and Christina LeJeune
Dr. Jerry Dixon and Alison Trawick
Celeste Holland and Stephanie Tunstall
Walter and Shawna McNeil
Mike and Kerri Gregory
Betsy Elmore, Sarah Ross and Stacy Clement
Stuart and Pamela Howieson, Beth Rodrigues and Bobby Botsis
Blair Hoffman Pringle and Laura Ledbetter
Justin and Kimberley Correa
Mary Kathryn McMillon and Anna Brown
Ashley and Mike Daves
Jake Harris and Annelise Wilhite
Jesse and Kaitlyn Eddy
Katie Meisch, Brittany Luckie, Ashley Truelove, Bethany King, Dr. Brittany Case, Molly Clarke and Neshanta Linson
Christina Bush, Brittany Kesterson and Carly Mitchell
Jonathan and Montse Garcia
Dr. Jerry Dixon and Alison Trawick, Shannon Baldwin and Tommy Merrick
JD and Tori Nelson, Jenny and Zack Hahn
Parr
Neera and Sagar Chokshi
Doan Truong and Anita Mazloom
Veronica Bishop, Autumn Gann, Laurie Weber, Alison Ward and Shannon Baldwin Helsi Lewis, Laken Lindsay, Jesse and Kaitlyn Eddy and Carlee Crawford
Eva Winters and LtCol Fred Winters USMC
Nathan Gravlee and Susan Hamm
Michael Bailey and Anne Low Will and Victoria Ransom
Tonia O’Daniel and Allie Battle
Mayor Robin and Christina LeJeune, Hollie And Victor LeJeune
Jakob and Chelsea Baggett, Joan and Mark Kellis
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
Since I was a child, I have been interested in medicine. My mother and father are both registered nurses, and, at a young age, I had the opportunity to shadow several physicians, which fascinated me. Medicine is one of the few professions in which a person can have a direct and potentially long-lasting impact on the quality of life of another human being.
Tell us a little about your practice. I am a medical oncologist at Mitchell Cancer Institute where I work with our multidisciplinary team and community physician partners to develop personalized care plans for our patients. I provide cancer care at our facilities in Baldwin County, AL, and Mobile, AL. Additionally, I dedicate one day a week to teaching hematology and oncology fellows, residents, and medical students. It is incredibly meaningful to me to help educate future physicians who will continue to care for patients in South Alabama.
How do you balance the demands of your profession with your personal life?
Balancing my profession with my personal life requires intentional effort and planning. I make it a priority to set aside time on the weekends for family, friends, and hobbies, ensuring I have a dedicated space to recharge.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional?
Oncology provides the opportunity to develop long-term relationships with patients and their families. This allows me to provide not just medical care, but also emotional support and guidance during a challenging time, which is quite rewarding.
ZACHARY M. TRISEL, MD
Medical Oncologist and Hematologist
Baldwin County | Mobile
KATRINA SKINNER, MD, FAAP
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
I received the best advice early in my career as a pediatrician – every year try to do more of what you love and less of what you don’t. That advice is the cornerstone of our mission at Fairhope Pediatrics. We constantly look for ways to improve how we serve our families so we can bring more joy, happiness, and value to every interaction.
KATIE ERDLITZ, DNP
What is the most important part of your job as a pediatric nurse practitioner?
Guiding my patients through the critical stages of development from infancy to young adulthood knowing that I have played a part in shaping their lives is an incredible reward. I look forward to caring for the children of our community for many more years to come, and I cherish the relationships I have built with families over the last fifteen years. I am now caring for the babies of former patients… how cool is that!
LINDSEY WHITE, CPNP
What do you find mos t rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional?
I am blessed to watch babies grow into amazing adults. I have walked children and their families through some of the happiest and some of the most difficult times of their lives, and I am blown away by their resiliency. The work that I do at Fairhope Pediatrics grants me the opportunity to grow in my own advanced nursing practice and to work alongside an incredible team all focused on fostering a healthier today for our patients in hopes of a brighter tomorrow
KAYCIE DIXON, CPNP
Why did you choose pediatric medicine as your specialty?
As a young child, I was diagnosed with epilepsy and asthma, leading to numerous doctors’ visits, medications, and lab tests. I became a pediatric nurse practitioner because I knew firsthand how traumatic the patient experience could be. I help my patients overcome white coat syndrome, the anxiety and fear associated with receiving medical care, by promoting a welcoming environment and advocating for their best health.
Photos by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
Clothing Provided by Monkee's of Fairhope Hair & Makeup by Olivia Parr, Salon GLS
Influencer
Bailey Kennon is an Orange Beach local and has spent many years serving the Gulf Coast community and state of Alabama through her non-profit and as a finalist in the Miss Alabama and Miss Alabama USA competitions. Today, Bailey is in private practice as an Associate Licensed Counselor with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health. Bailey sees clients in Orange Beach and Mobile and is usually accompanied by her therapy dog, Biscuit! She is currently developing a workshop for women who want to find more joy in their everyday life, so be on the lookout for dates for this retreat! Bailey is happily married to her husband, Clay Wyatt, who is a student pastor at Dayspring Baptist Church. In their free time, you can find them at any dogfriendly spot with their pups, Winston and Biscuit!
Premier Women’s Health, an affiliate of Infirmary Health, provides comprehensive gynecological care for women at all stages of life. Jeff Fahy, FACOG, FPMRS, boardcertified in female pelvic medicine & reconstructive surgery, is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care through diagnosis & treatment of all gynecological conditions. Dr. Fahy uses preventative and corrective therapies, non-surgical treatments such as bioidentical hormone pellet therapy, and minimally invasive surgical interventions.
In addition to routine gynecologic exams, Premier Women's Health commonly provides treatment for:
• Abnormal bleeding
• Endometriosis
• Hormone Deficiency
• Medical weight loss
• Ovarian cysts
• Pelvic prolapse
• Sexual dysfunction
• Urinary incontinence
• Uterine fibroids
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional?
Getting the opportunity to help a woman’s quality of life! Whether it’s helping someone with infertility, chronic pelvic pain or incontinence, seeing my patients experience success through minimally-invasive surgery is always so rewarding.
Tell us about the comment from a patient that has touched you the most.
A patient recently shared with me that the time I spent with her discussing her situation and issues, along with the hormone therapy I provided her, saved her life and marriage.
How does your expertise in minimally-invasive pelvic surgery improve the patient experience?
Minimally-invasive surgery is typically outpatient with very little to no incisions, allowing my patients return to work or activities quickly with little to no postoperative pain.
What's new?
We are beginning robotic surgery this fall at North Baldwin Infirmary, and we are now scheduling appointments for our new location in Saraland, AL.
Gala Gala
The North Baldwin Infirmary Foundation Gala held at John F. Rhodes Civic Center in Bay Minette is the premier fundraiser for healthcare in the North Baldwin community. It is a spectacular evening of dinner, dancing, and auctions. To honor her legacy, the Foundation presents the Liz Duryea Service Award to an individual who exceeds all expectations for service to the hospital. The 2024 Award was presented to Mrs. Dorothy White at the Gala.
Jennifer Anderson-Fung, LeeAnn Cain and Kellye Knight Barbara and Pat Newman, Lee Mitchell
Chelsea and Nathan Payne
Dee Dee and Jay Ebert
Sara and Clint Davis
Abigail Sherman, Callie Roley, Tina Covington, Kimberly Cain, Ashley Lowe, Melissa Hollingsworth (Chair), Ashley Jones Davis, Marlee Bailey, Maggie Heger and Emily Brewer
Daniel Crocker and Kimberly Cain
Bob Zarr Sr and Dorothy White
Brian and Julie Seals, Jennifer McNeally
Latisha and Richard Frye
Photos by Martha Davidson
THOMAS HOSPITAL FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC
Golfers hit the greens at the gorgeous Lakewood Golf Club for a day all about fun, friends, and supporting Thomas Hospital. The Title Sponsor for the 28th Golf Classic was State Farm agentsLad Drago, Tim Simmonds and Rick Phyfer.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional?
I am dedicated to helping my patients lead healthy lives. By building personal connections and working collaboratively, I strive to provide comprehensive and compassionate care.
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
I was inspired to pursue a career in healthcare following a sports injury in my youth. The doctor that took care of me was the only one that could relieve the pain and uncertainty of the moment and I wanted to do that for others. To that end, I find providing clarity and comfort to be one of the most rewarding aspects of our calling.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional?
The impact I have on someone's life.... Whether it is simple as a cold or a more complex issue, helping them along the way makes my day. I also enjoy getting to know my patients and their families.
by
Photo
Jennie Tewell Photography
Dr. Sandra Alexander
Dr. Wesley Cowan
Dr. Julian Jesubatham
Quality Healthcare RIGHT AT HOME
1993
2002
Founded in 1993 by dedicated community members, the Thomas Hospital Foundation supports the community’s hospital through philanthropy, ensuring Thomas Hospital remains the region’s preferred provider. Its primary role is to improve patient care at Thomas Hospital via donor contributions, fundraising events like the Grand Summer Ball and the Thomas Hospital Foundation Golf Classic, and partnerships with community foundations.
Thomas Hospital Foundation thrives on community support, which includes financial contributions, leadership, volunteer time, and advocacy. Over its 31 years, every project has been fueled by community belief and support.
The Foundation’s impact is evident in major projects like the Birth Center and Breast Center campaigns, expansions of the Cath Lab and cardiac care program, and aesthetic upgrades such as the surgery waiting room and physician’s lounge refurbishment. Currently, a significant project in partnership with The Joseph Treadwell Foundation is replacing traditional dry erase boards in patient rooms with electronic boards integrated with patients’ electronic medical records, enhancing communication and care.
The long-term vision of the Thomas Hospital Foundation is to provide the highest quality healthcare at home. Achieving this involves engaging donors, sharing stories, being good stewards of the community’s philanthropy, and cultivating relationships that unlock the future of healthcare. The Foundation is honored to serve the community and embraces this role with dedication every day.
For more information, visit infirmaryhealth.org/ foundations/thomas-hospital-foundation/
As a community hospital, Thomas Hospital’s relationships with local businesses are mutually beneficial. Businesses need a strong hospital to care for their employees, and the hospital aims to keep their employees healthy. The Foundation proudly sees many business partners at their events, enjoying themselves while supporting the mission.
The Foundation hosts several key annual events to engage the community and raise funds. This month, the Grand Summer Ball, featuring dinner and dancing at The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, is not only the biggest event of the year for the Foundation. It is also considered a preeminent event for community. In October, the Thomas Hospital Foundation Sporting Clay Classic will return to Bushy Creek Clays, followed by the popular Cowboys & Cocktails in November.
Community members can support the Thomas Hospital Foundation in various ways, including donations via check, event ticket purchases, contributions of appreciated stocks and securities, real estate, and making the Foundation a beneficiary of IRAs or insurance policies.
Through unwavering commitment and community support, the Thomas Hospital Foundation ensures high-quality healthcare is accessible to all. As the Foundation looks to the future, it remains dedicated to enhancing healthcare services, supporting hospital programs, and fostering a compassionate environment for everyone on the Eastern Shore.
Since 2011, the board-certified physicians at Urgent Care by the Bay have been offering Eastern Shore families the diagnostic and treatment expertise of emergency medicine trained physicians in a relaxing and welcoming environment by treating medical conditions that require prompt attention, but do not pose an immediate threat to your life or health – without the wait and cost of an ER visit. They are passionate about urgent patient care and staying up to date on the ever-changing field of medicine.
Not many urgent cares offer in-house medication dispensing, but we believe it enables our clinic to provide a one-stop-shop for our patients. We can diagnose, treat, and fill your medication all in the same place. This integrated approach fosters trust in our clinic's ability to meet the patient's healthcare needs and provides a sense of continuity of care.
Photos by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room
Photography
DR. MICHAEL J. BINDON
What influenced your decision to specialize in emergency medicine?
I get a special opportunity to be a friendly face for people of all walks of life on what is usually one of their worst days. The fast pace and variety of medical issues helps keep any day from becoming routine. I also enjoy the camaraderie and teamwork that occurs in a well-running emergency department or urgent care.
DR. J.C. JACOBS V
What advice would you give to aspiring healthcare professionals?
I tell young people that are considering medicine that there are easier and faster ways to make money, but if you are willing to endure the years of training, it can be a very satisfying career. It will not only provide for your family, but it is also something of which you can be very proud. I tell them that it isn't always the smartest student who succeeds, but the one who is willing to put in the work.
DR. TREY SIMMS
Please share a defining moment in your career.
The worried family of a young girl with special needs brought her in because she wasn’t using her arm, and they didn’t know why. After a quick maneuver to treat her dislocated elbow, she was back to normal. The relief that spread across the faces of the family after she started using her arm again was incredibly satisfying for me. It really felt like I had done something to make their lives better.
DR. ALAN J. BABCOCK
What comment from a patient has touched you the most.
“You caught this”. When someone presents with something that is seemingly minor, but some detail leads down a path of a concerning diagnosis that was caught early, treated, and now healed. It is incredibly humbling that patients remember you, though you played a very small role in their treatment and keeps you vigilant.
DR. T. CHAD
VANDERHEYDEN
Tell us a little about your practice. You will be taken care of by one of our board-certified physicians. They are passionate about urgent patient care and staying up to date on the ever-changing field of medicine. You can feel confident coming to Urgent Care by the Bay for your medical needs.
The care you and your family need… when you need it most.
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
SPRING FEVER CHASE
Spring Fever Chase is a 10K run and two-mile fun run/walk sponsored by Thomas Hospital and Wells Fargo. The event takes both runners and walkers on a course through the neighborhoods of Fairhope overlooking Mobile Bay. This year’s event raised $15,000 which was donated to Baldwin County schools to enhance physical education programs, promoting healthy and active lifestyles for local children.
LITTLE BLACK DRESS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN SAVAGE
The excitement that Little Black Dress was back for the first time since 2019 was evidenced by the turnout and the energy in the air at Fort Whiting Reception Hall in Mobile. The event benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile which provides a supportive home environment offering care, compassion, and hope to families with seriously ill and injured children being treated at area hospitals and medical facilities.
Your skin Deserves the best
Heather Ramey Haley, MD
Bonnie Hodge, MD
Board-Certified DermatologistBoard-Certified Dermatologist
Tell Us About Your Practice
When I first opened my practice in Fairhope 21 years ago, my goal was to provide an alternative to driving over to Mobile for people on the Eastern Shore needing full-service skin care for all ages and all problems. After a few years, people from Mobile, New Orleans, Montgomery, and beyond were driving to Fairhope to see me and my other providers. Over the years I have created a “team” of exceptional people to work alongside me. My PAs, NPs, estheticians, and nurses all make Haley Dermatology what it is today.
Why were you inspired to choose dermatology as your specialty?
We help our patients in a wide range of ways. I love it when patients bring in photos from a wedding or a reunion and tell me how happy and confident they felt after visiting us for cosmetic treatments. It is so meaningful when patients thank me for saving their life by finding a melanoma during a routine skin exam.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional?
When I am able to give direction to a patient who has been searching for answers or a diagnosis for years, I feel rewarded in my work. It means so much to me to be able to give that to someone.
What's new?
For years, atopic dermatitis and itch have been very difficult diseases to control, and all we had were topical and systemic steroids. Itch can be a very miserable thing to deal with, especially when chronic. We have a few great agents on the market, but even more coming. It's exciting as a dermatologist to have more in the toolbox.
Bonnie Hodge, MD
Heather Ramey Haley, MD
New location in Foley!
Photos by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
and SIPSavor
LEBANESE MEAT PIES
Yield: 6 Servings
INGREDIENTS:
1 pound of finely ground beef
4 large tomatoes
4 bunches of parsley
1 large white onion
1 tablespoon of salt
1 tablespoon of black pepper
1 tablespoon of 7 spice blend
6 Greek pitas
fresh lemon juice
INSTRUCTIONS:
Brown the ground beef, drain off excess fat and set aside. Finely dice the tomatoes, parsley and onion. Remove all parsley stems. Combine the first four ingredients and season with the salt, pepper and 7 spice blend. Spread the mixture onto to Greek pitas. Bake for 10 -15 minutes at 375 degrees or until the pitas are crispy. Sprinkle fresh lemon juice on top of each meat pie and slice into wedges.
THE INTERNATIONAL GOAT LOCATED INSIDE FAIRHOPE PIGGLY WIGGLY
The International Goat offers addictive Middle Eastern cuisine that is made with only the best quality ingredients, all natural and healthy for you.
image credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
image credit:RuiliCai
GRAND OPENING & RIBBON CUTTING
PHOTOS BY HOLLY M c KINNEY
The Reserve at Fairhope invited the community to discover all the unexpected details of its beautifully appointed community at a Grand Opening celebration. The event featured a ribbon cutting, guided tours of the elegant living spaces, delicious bites and bubbly.
Wave Medical Equipment, a distinguished name in the healthcare industry, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals by providing top-notch medical equipment. This local business specializes in home respiratory care, offering essential services such as home oxygen and CPAP therapy.
What do you hope clients have to say about their experience with Wave Medical?
That we do business the way business should be done... with a handshake and a smile. Getting a CPAP or any form of medical equipment is a life altering change. We want patients to feel comfortable and confident that we will be with them every step of the way in their healthcare journey. We like to say that we want to our patients to feel like they are family.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the Eastern Shore Community?
We enjoy the fact that we can help promote wellness and a sense of well-being in our growing community. A growing community needs professional and courteous health care choices. We simply enjoy serving the people in our community.
"When it comes to your healthcare, you have the power to choose. If you use a CPAP, choose Wave Medical – the area's largest CPAP showroom. Your health, your choice. Choose Wave Medical."
Photo credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room
Photography
Wave Medical Family (L to R): Autumn Bowling, Patrick Gorman, Lisa Temple, Jonathan Temple,Raiya Temple, Anthony Temple, Danielle Rudolph and Ron Laskaskie
BY GIVING BACK Finding home Meg Willet
Growing up in the heart of South Louisiana, I learned a strong sense of community from watching my mom volunteer and my dad serve as a judge. After graduating from the University of Richmond, I decided to stay in Virginia, where I began my career in public relations and government relations. It was there that I built the foundation of my professional life, but my personal journey took me through several different cities before I finally found my home in Fairhope.
My husband, Addison, and I are high school sweethearts. We moved to Fairhope in the summer of 2020, after stints in Shreveport and Iowa City. Our four amazing daughters—Kate (10), Adrienne (7), and twins Caroline and Elizabeth (5)—are the light of our lives. Addison is a radiation oncologist, practicing at Thomas Hospital and Mobile Infirmary, dedicating his career to treating cancer patients with compassion and expertise.
Photo credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room
Photography
My passion for community work has led me to remarkable organizations in Baldwin County. I'm the incoming President of the Eastern Shore Medical Alliance (ESMA), where I've found a supportive network and a platform to give back to the community. Organizations like ESMA have been invaluable in helping me connect and integrate into new communities. I'm also a Board Member for Impact 100 Baldwin County, an organization that exemplifies the power of collective giving. This year, our pooled donations will amount to $515,000 in grants—a testament to what we can achieve together. As Communications Co-Chair, I've enjoyed thinking outside the box as we grow our reach in the community; plus, I'm constantly learning from this professionally run organization.
Additionally, I volunteer with the Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre (ESRT) as an auxiliary volunteer. This year, I took a leap and joined the cast of CATS, performing alongside my daughter Kate. It was a transformative experience that rekindled my love for performing arts. At St. James Episcopal Church, I serve in the Children's Ministry, teaching Sunday school and helping with Vacation Bible School. These roles allow me to contribute to the spiritual growth of our community's children and support the arts, which was the best outlet for me as someone who did leaps through the grocery aisles growing up.
Through volunteering, I hope to teach my children that purpose and fulfillment can come from various sources, not just paid jobs. 2020 was a tough time to move, but I'm proud of how far our family has come since those early days of Hurricane Sally, a pandemic and few familiar faces. I can't imagine a better place for us to have landed!
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
Early exposure! I spent many Saturday mornings accompanying my dad on rounds at various hospitals in New Orleans, which usually ended in grand rounds and didactics at Tulane Medical School. I loved this time! However, the animal lover in me initially wanted to be a veterinarian.
Can you describe your specialty and what drew you to this field?
As an OBGYN, I have the privilege of taking care of women through each season of their lives, often generations of women in the same family. Now that's rewarding!
Tell us a little bit about your practice.
As a board-certified OBGYN, I have a special interest and certification in menopausal medicine. Our clinic is part of the tremendous growth of USA Health in Baldwin County. It's exciting to be a part of this movement and to serve the needs of a rapidly growing community, in addition to providing healthcare to many counties that do not have adequate healthcare.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional?
The daily interactions with patients, my colleagues, and our students are extremely rewarding. We teach, challenge, and learn from each other daily. Each day is a new experience, even after practicing for so many years. At this point in my career, I have the opportunity to focus on gynecology and the menopausal years, which is an emerging field full of new research and science.
CONSTANCE COLLINS DABEZIES
Obstetrician/Gynecologist
by
Photo
Cindy McCrory, Blue Room
Photography
Nourish:
A Seven-Course Journey in Culinary Medicine
Nourish: A Seven Course Journey in Culinary Medicine allowed those that attended to learn more about USA Health’s Integrative Health and Wellness Program while enjoying an interactive dinner with wine pairing curated by Adam Korzun, chef and director of performance nutrition for the Green Bay Packers.
Joe Sullivan and Jimmy Grodnick Miranda and Dr. Ben Schrubbe
Mary and Van Finger
Christi and Mike Mossburg
Carl and Lacey Hunt
Maya De Andrade, Shanna Thorpe, Kelly McCarron, Margaret Kappell and Margaret Sullivan
Genie and Owen Bailey
Jo and Janee Bonner
Joy Grodnick and Arlene Mitchell
Mimi and Steve Johnson
Photos by Ruili Cai
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
Growing up, my dad was a small-town community pharmacist. He always talked about his customers as his patients. He was such a patient advocate, always wanting what was best for them, even if it hurt him on the business end. I always admired that and knew I wanted to pursue a career in healthcare to be like him and help people.
Can you describe your specialty and what drew you to this particular field?
I am currently a board-certified OB/GYN. I get to help women every day with their health and be an advocate for them in every stage of life. I see them as teenagers, through their first pregnancy, and help them navigate the world of menopause. I was drawn to this field initially because of the obstetrics part of what I do. I love helping mothers through their pregnancy journey and delivering babies. I often say that I am in the one field of medicine where we bring life into the world.
How do you balance the demands of your profession with your personal life?
Thankfully, I have a very supportive family who help keep me grounded. I make sure every day that I have time just for them. I couldn’t be the physician I am without them.
What advice would you give to aspiring healthcare professionals?
The advice I would give to anyone wanting to pursue a career in healthcare is to go into it for the right reasons. Make sure you love it. It isn’t always easy, but it can be so rewarding knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life.
ALLISON CASEY CALHOUN M.D., FACOG
Assistant Professor in Obstetrics & Gynecology
Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
What inspired you to pursue a career in healthcare?
When I was young, I wanted a job that combined science and interaction with people, so medicine always seemed like a great fit for me.
Can you describe your specialty and what drew you to this particular field?
My specialty is called pediatric orthopaedic surgery. Pediatric orthopaedic surgeons complete a residency in orthopaedic surgery, followed by additional training through a fellowship, which is an extra year specifically focused on orthopaedics in children. As a pediatric orthopaedist, I am an expert on the growing skeleton and the injuries and ailments that affect it. I deal with a wide variety of problems, from the neck all the way down to the toes. The diversity of orthopaedic issues we can treat is what drew me to the field. Additionally, I find working with children much more enjoyable than working with adult patients!
Tell us a little about your practice. I specialize in pediatric spine conditions, such as scoliosis, but I also have a very general practice and treat a variety of conditions like clubfeet, hip dysplasia, fractures, and limb deformities. The variety of patients I get to meet every day is what makes my job so enjoyable.
What advice would you give to aspiring healthcare professionals?
I would say find what makes you excited to come to work every day and set your sights on the prerequisites for that goal. Orthopaedic surgery is a tough journey, so you must be 100% certain that it’s the job you want and devote your entire energy to it in school. At the same time, don't give up the things that make you unique. Continue to nourish your special talents and hobbies to bolster yourself against burnout.
by
Photo
Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
Dr. Troy ENFINGER, OD
Tell us a little bit about your practice. Working in and around Baldwin County for over 7 years as a licensed Optometrist, Dr. Troy Enfinger is proud to bring his skill and passion for clear, healthy vision to Fairhope. Located behind Thomas Hospital, Focal Point Vision is a new, full scope Optometry practice offering the latest in advanced diagnostic evaluation and treatment in areas including primary care, pediatric vision, vision therapy, sports vision therapy, and myopia management. We carry a wide variety of designer frames and sunglasses, offering the latest in coatings and lens technology. We are proud to have an awesome team to assist you with all your vision needs. Our office looks forward to the opportunity to serve the families of Baldwin County and the surrounding areas in our new, innovative space.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a doctor?
Helping others improve their vision to its fullest ability. Although I enjoy working with patients of all ages, the school age patients that go through my vision therapy program keep myself and my staff amazed at their improvements, meeting and exceeding their goals. For example, we often evaluate children who are showing great difficulty with reading fluency and comprehension. We provide a customized therapy plan and guide them each week, each step of the way. The increased level of confidence, growth, and scholastic improvement seen at completion of vision therapy never gets old.
Photo credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
RIBBON CUTTING & GRAND OPENING FOCAL POINT VISION
Dr. Troy Enfinger, along with his staff, family and friends celebrated his new practice in Fairhope, Focal Point Vision, with a grand opening event. Everyone enjoyed great food refreshments, and the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce joined in for a ribbon cutting to recognize the practice as a new member.
BUILD A BETTER BUSINESS EXPO
The second-annual “Build a Better Business” Expo & Affiliate Showcase hosted by Baldwin Realtors was a day full of learning, networking, and fun. The event featured 18 industry partners, informative break sessions, giveaways, and more.
Melinda Purcell, Ginger Foshee and Amanda Byers
Hollie MacKellar and Paige Stuart
Stephanie Messinger and Tracy Womack
Kasey Lancaster and Kellie Simmons
Brooke Butler and Kayla Sanders
Kathryn White, Kathy Letcher and Tracey Pate
Donovan Nelson and Nathan Lippincott
Loren Tunnicliffe and JP Ashworth
Candace Pfab and Stephanie Jenkins-Vordermark
Shelley Stringer and Aurelia Bryars
Dan Sloan and Alan Reynolds
Pat Nelson and Colt Pennington
Gretch Reid and Kimberly Kosick
Reed Nixson and Wes Wilds
Hurley MBH offers innovative therapeutic care for individuals and families by integrating compassion, neuroscience and research. Our team includes our patient care coordinator, psychiatrist, neurotherapist, and counselors to help people with their unique needs. We are solution focused on adolescent struggles, marital conflict, communication issues, family dysfunction, parenting struggles, sexual dysfunction, sober living, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance, trauma, dyslexia, ADHD and other forms of emotional and relational issues.
How does the comprehensive approach of Hurley MBH improve a patient's quality of care?
It protects clients from the stress of having to puppeteer their own treatment plan for themselves or their loved one. It should never be the patient's burden to connect their mental health providers or to have to hunt for the right counselor, psychiatrist or neurotherapist. Our community needs and deserves an obvious and trusted place to go when they or a loved one is struggling with a mental health need or in their relationships. Each client has unique needs, and it's important that they have resources and various professionals available to be proactive on their behalf.
What's new?
Neurostimulation is easily the most exciting advancement in the field of mental health research in recent years. The specificity in which it can target and alleviate symptoms associated with mental illness such as anxiety, depression and ADHD is incredibly exciting for the world at large and more specifically, for our community. We are thrilled to be educators, leaders and clinicians who can deliver the service.
Andrew Hurley
MA, LMFT, LPC, LPC-S Owner and COO
Leigh Hurley MA, LPC Owner and CEO
THEATRE ON THE BLUFF SPONSOR NIGHT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
STEPHEN SAVAGE
Sponsors of Eastern Shore Repertory Theatre were invited to a special opening night performance of the 11th Annual Theatre on the Bluff. ESRT provides innovative, high-quality theatre experiences for the Eastern Shore community, including musical theatre summer camps, dance and musical theatre classes and more.
On the Bay
Photos by Kyle Lowry
Step into the epitome of Eastern Shore elegance with this exquisite Gold Fortified beach house constructed by premier local custom builder ARK Builders. The FORTIFIED Home Program was created by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). It is a voluntary construction and re-roofing program designed to strengthen homes and commercial buildings against specific types of severe weather such as high winds, hail, hurricanes and even tornados. By choosing FORTIFIED, you are getting protection that goes beyond even the strictest code. Thanks to Knockout Inspections, you will experience safer living from start to finish.
Spanning 3,400 square feet, this raised beach house is a masterpiece of style and comfort, designed to foster unforgettable moments. Nestled in the heart of Alabama’s Eastern Shore, the residence is just moments from the bustling downtowns of Fairhope and Daphne, offering a blend of tranquility and vibrant community life.
As you step inside, the home welcomes you with soaring 11-foot ceilings on the main level and 10-foot ceilings above, creating a sense of grandeur and openness. The expertly designed open floor plan harmoniously connects the living space with a state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen. This culinary haven is equipped with top-tier Bosch appliances including a five-burner gas stove with a convenient pot filler provided by Mobile Appliance, the largest appliance dealer in Alabama. Mobile Appliance gives homeowners who demand nothing but the very best exactly what they want. A sprawling granite countertop island constructed of natural stone from Stone Gallery makes this kitchen an ideal setting for both grand entertaining and intimate family dinners. The primary suite boasts stunning bay views, an expansive
JUDD GILLESPIE
The primary suite boasts stunning bay views, an expansive walk-in closet, and an adjoining laundry room for the utmost convenience.
The en-suite bathroom exudes spa-like tranquility with its lavish fixtures and finishes, ensuring a perfect retreat after a long day.
The home’s allure extends outdoors with a screened back porch, offering a serene spot to enjoy the world’s most breathtaking sunsets. Practicality is not overlooked, with features like a Generac whole-home generator, a tankless water heater, and extensive storage options, including attic space. Future homeowners will appreciate the planned addition of an elevator that will service all floors, ensuring ease of movement throughout the house.
For water lovers, the property is a dream, featuring a lit pier, a fully-equipped boathouse, and a boat lift. The beach and bulkhead provide a front-row seat to the Jubilee, a unique local event where seafood abounds along the shore, offering an extraordinary natural spectacle right at your doorstep.
This stunning residence blends luxurious living with practical amenities, making it an ideal home for those who cherish both elegance and functionality. Its prime location in the Fairhope School zone and close proximity to vibrant community hubs make it a perfect choice for families and individuals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Contact Judd today to schedule an exclusive tour and experience the unique charm and luxury of this exceptional home. Karen Campbell of FirstBank Home Mortgage is passionate about helping you achieve your home dreams. She would love to discuss financing options with you. Mark Stejskal with Brazzell Insurance has been committed to serving the Eastern Shore community for over 20 years, and he has the options you need to protect your home, auto, boat and more. He can provide tailored options for this beautiful home that will give you the peace of mind to sit back, relax and enjoy Bay life.
Dr. Alex MINNEY
Healthcare When You Need It, Where You Need It
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional? I truly cherish the moments when I am able to answer my patients questions fully and help guide them through tough times. The “light” that returns to a person after they have battled illness and re-take control of their lives is the most beautiful sight in medicine. Through God’s blessing I'm rewarded by being a tool in his plan.
Why did you choose to operate your practice as a Direct Primary Care?
Direct Primary Care (DPC) allows me to remove all the barriers in healthcare. I’m privileged to have a direct relationship with my patients. DPC is the only primary care model that gives people an option on healthcare, upfront transparent pricing and works with you to lower costs while focusing only on quality of care. DPC is meant to be affordable for all and I love that I can provide this service to my patients.
How do you balance the demands of your profession with your personal life?
Direct Primary Care has also allowed me to take back my life, which has made me a more energetic and devoted physician. My wife and I get to build a practice that I am proud of, and my children get to see their father enjoy practicing medicine. I have never felt more connected as a family unit.
Photos by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room
Photography
Lacee Minney and Dr. Alex Minney
BALLIN’ ON BELROSE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN
SAVAGE
Ballin’ on Belrose is a community walk/run event on Belrose Avenue in Daphne, between Main Street and Mobile Bay. It is a day of fun for all ages with DJ music, sponsor booths, food and drink, a kids’ play area with inflatables, face painting, photo ops and more. Named “Ballin’” for the Baller Dream Foundation, the event aims to raise funds to support the foundation’s efforts in supporting, comforting, and offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences to lift the spirits of children and young adults battling cancer.
BAYSIDE ACADEMY GROUNDBREAKING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY M c CRORY
The Bayside Academy community gathered together to break ground on the construction of the school’s new state of the art middle school building which will house 16 classrooms. The upgraded facilities will be built southwest of the intersection of Belrose Avenue and Old County Road on Bayside Academy’s 20-acre campus. The project will also include improvements to parking on campus.
Amber Gelinas, DMD
As the proud owner and general dentist at Bayfront Dental, I invite you to experience firsthand why our practice is considered Daphne's premier dental office. Bayfront Dental is a charming, family-operated practice where patient comfort and care are our top priorities. My team and I are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to the Eastern Shore community. Here, you'll find advanced dental technology, a devoted and skilled team of professionals, and a selection of comfort amenities to elevate your visit.
What inspired you to specialize in dentistry?
From a young age, I was fascinated by dentistry. My childhood visits to the dentist were always enjoyable, especially when I was celebrated with a Polaroid on the "No Cavity" wall. Those visits taught me that dentistry doesn't have to feel clinical; it can be welcoming and fun. As I grew older, I realized that my passion for science and art aligned perfectly with my goal of becoming a dentist, allowing me to create an environment where patients feel comfortable and cared for.
What do you find most rewarding about your work as a healthcare professional?
The most rewarding aspect of my work is helping people of all ages and financial situations. My patients often praise the welcoming and calming environment I strive to create, which helps even the most anxious feel at ease. To make dental care more accessible, I developed a cost-effective in-house membership plan for those without insurance, and we accept various dental insurance providers to ensure our services remain affordable for everyone.
Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
The High Hopes for Autism FUNraiser was a huge success, brimming with excitement and community spirit! Attendees enjoyed the thrill of two 2024 JEEP giveaways and were treated to vibrant live local music throughout the weekend. The event also featured an impressive art market, showcasing the incredible talents of local artists. With its engaging activities and enthusiastic participation, the FUNraiser was a fantastic celebration, all while supporting a worthy cause.
Mike Sledge, Avery Lowery, Reagan Davis and Anthony Lowery
Photos by Ruili Cai
Bethany Hawkins and Jamie Lynne Albin
Tiffany Odom, Brian Odom and Jolene Oulliber
June Hurston and Kay Sorrells
Ray and Beverly Terry
Maya Blume-Cantrell and Nick Cantrell
Wayne and Michelle Murphy
Rebekah and Garret Parker
Donna Waters, Johnathan Bean and Crystal McCall-Pope
Sierra Davis and Gregory Starr
SHORE
Congratulations to THE HARTY CARPENTER GROUP for being named to the Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” 2024 list, published on January 9, 2024. Rankings based on data as of March 31, 2023.
THE HARTY CARPENTER GROUP
Merrill Lynch Wealth Management 601 North Section Street Fairhope, AL 36532
2024 Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” list. Opinions provided by SHOOK® Research, LLC and is based on in-person, virtual and telephone due-diligence meetings and a ranking algorithm that measure best practices, client retention, industry experience, credentials, compliance records, firm nominations, assets under management and Firm-generated revenue (investment performance is not a criterion because client objectives and risk tolerance vary). SHOOK’s rankings are available for client evaluation only, are not indicative of future performance and do not represent any one client’s experience and available for investor help in evaluating the right financial advisor and not an endorsement of the advisor. Compensation was not received from anyone for the rankings study. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Details available at the SHOOK Research website. SHOOK is a registered trademark of SHOOK Research, LLC.
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (MLPF&S) is a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, and Member SIPC. Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC and MLPF&S are wholly owned subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.
The Bull Symbol and Merrill are registered trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. © 2024 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.
| 03/2024
Premier Medical has a large, dedicated staff of specialists who use the latest technology to diagnose and treat your medical issues with care. Contact us today to make an appointment at one of our five locations in Mobile and Baldwin Counties.
SUMMA HUMMA
by Andrew Crumpton
Members and their guests joined together for the organization’s annual summer celebration, The Summa Humma. Everyone enjoyed this evening of fun, food, and live music that allowed them to get together for a good time ahead of the highly anticipated Mardi Gras activities soon to come.
Photos
Heather Hapworth and Anne Frost Kennedy
Lorna and Mike Mayr
Wendy and Kyle Walding
Elizabeth and Jon Macklem
Jarrett Williams and Jennifer Burgess
Melanie Jones, Lesley Skipper and Leila Nichols
Richard and Tina Kronenberger
Lacey and Trevor Powell
Myles and Natalye Meade
James and Mary Coleman
Mallory Martin, Molly O’Keefe and Alanna Greene
Jennifer Hyde and Lindsey Hall
Amy Kranz, Collins Kranz and Clark Brownlee-Carey
Hannah Fincher, Lizzy Calametti and Gracie Snider
Amy and Paul Paulson
Andrew Rose Garrett Pitts
Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
Crafted by: Cynthia Salyers
Pretty In Pink
1.5 oz 8 Reale Watermelon Infused Vodka
.5 oz Hibiscus Cordial
1 oz St Germain
Splash Ginger Beer
Splash Soda Water
Directions:
Add ingredients to a Boston shaker, shake for 6 seconds. Strain mixture into a chilled glass, Garnish with Pink Hibiscus Flower, Ginger, and Mint
Wellness Pros
KIMBERLY COX
What was the inspiration for Press & Co?
I found it was easy to access healthy food when I was traveling. I wanted to create a fun, uplifting cafe that focuses on health and wellness to share with my community.
Is there a comment from a customer that touched you?
The first comment that comes to mind is when a customer told me “If I could marry a cafe, I would marry Press & Co.” I thought that was the sweetest! I also love when customers ask if it’s a franchise because we spent so much thought on every detail building the brand.
The community has really shown up to support Press & Co. How does that feel?
It’s exciting that more and more people are becoming interested in health and wellness. Press & Co. now exists to make it easy for our customers to make better decisions about the fuel they put into their bodies and serves as a gathering place to meet others on the same journey.
What's new?
We just launched our new menu under the leadership of our awesome new General Manager, Amber Harris, adding our customer’s favorite specials. We now have a seasonal organic juice called “Wild Card” that will change based on what's in season.
What's next?
We are launching our catering menu soon! We've had many requests to provide healthy meals for larger groups. Our new catering menu will have you covered for your next office lunch, birthday, or any celebration!
Photos by Jennie Tewell Photography
What do you hope clients have to say about a visit to your clinic?
That the staff and therapists at FYZICAL truly care about me and are committed to improving my health and quality of life. The atmosphere, treatment protocols and professionalism at FYZICAL are the best I have experienced. They helped me LOVE MY LIFE again.
Wellness Pros
Local resident Allen Johnson is introducing an effective new health and wellness resource to the Eastern Shore with the opening of the newest FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers Clinic in Daphne. FYZICAL Daphne will offer an orthopedic rehabilitation program that helps patients reduce and reverse orthopedic pain or immobility and its attendant health issues. It will also offer a wide variety of services designed to address a broad range of diagnoses, conditions, and concerns, including:
• DIZZINESS
• BALANCE
• VESTIBULAR & NEUROLOGIC ISSUES
With more than 550 centers across 46 states, FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers Clinic offers a holistic approach to wellness. FYZICAL not only helps clients recover from injuries and surgeries but also helps them achieve better overall health and wellness. With its Balance Therapy Program, FYZICAL helps treat the vast and complex range of issues that can cause balance disorders in a safe and challenging environment.
Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
The Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals social for May was hosted by Castle Technology Partners at Cafe Viola in downtown Fairhope. This monthly event brings members together in a casual setting for networking accompanied by refreshing beverages and hors d’oeuvres. The Young Professionals come together to share initiatives, develop their careers and network. This group is geared toward the under-40 crowd, but all ages are welcome.
Leslie Beard and Haley Kern
Jessica Walker, Cam Jackson and Courtney Harville
Tommy and Sarah Graham
Gabriel Puello and Joshua O. Brown
Ruth McKee and Kaitlyn Hannaman
Paula Knodel, Ross Sykes and Ronnie Moore
Mary Harper and Winona Rogers
Jordan and Morgan Curtis
Sean Taylor and Ben Wood
Bonnie Bell and Dr. Abbie Parrish
Photos by Ruili Cai
Southern View Media and sister company, Pelican Promos, invited local business owners to connect and promote community growth while celebrating the company’s anniversary at this summer social. Honored guests were invited to enjoy food, drinks, music, games and a great time as a way to show appreciation for their partnership.
Aaron Hudgins, Scott Henne, Michelle Murrill, Courtney Bustle and Chip Cantrell
Photos by Ruili Cai
Kristy Jerkins and Greenly Culbreth
Sharon Murrill, Tina Poiroux and Hope Driskell
Katie Wilkinson Jackson and Jerry Jackson
Mohannad Sahyouni and Isabella Sahyouni
Nicholas Golob and Watanya Brown
Olivia Garrett and Aryn Carr
Hollie MacKellar and Paige Stuart
Randy Vinson and Donovan Nelson
Darren and Dr. Mishel Rych
JORGE AND JODI ROLDAN
Jorge and Jodi are experts in fitness club franchising, public relations, event planning and more. They look forward to bringing the Eastern Shore community together at a new full service 34,133 square foot Crunch Fitness coming to Spanish Fort Town Center. Offerings will include awesome classes, hittzone, personal training, functional group training, tons of weights, miles of cardio, yoga, Zumba© , Crunch +, tanning, TRX©, suspension training, hydromassage and daycare. Pricing will be as low as 9.99 monthly and the facility will be open and staffed 24/7.
NO JUDGMENTS. Some may call it a tagline, but for us, it’s a way of life. It’s our Monday-thru-every-day mantra. An unfiltered philosophy that drives us to create a community and a gym for all. “No judgements” means room for everyone, regardless of shape, size, age, race, gender or fitness level. No matter your workout of choice, we want you to feel good while reaching your goals.
Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography
MOM Dr. Brittany Case
Being a working mom is one of the most challenging yet rewarding roles I have. I often feel like I can't give 100% to both my career and my family, but I've learned to give myself grace and remember that I'm doing the best I can.
My husband, Butch, is the head boys' basketball coach at Faith Academy in Mobile. We just celebrated our ten-year wedding anniversary in May. We have two daughters, Vivian, and Carsen. Vivian is five and will start Kindergarten in the fall, and Carsen is three and in preschool. Both girls love gymnastics, dance, and Disney princesses. We also have two golden doodles, Sipsey and Sadie, and we are members of First Baptist Fairhope.
My career in the medical field is demanding. I am triple boarded in Internal Medicine, Hematology, and Medical Oncology. I spend a lot of time at the hospital or staying late at the office, making sure my patients get the best care possible. It's hard to balance work and family, but I hope my girls see that it's possible to have a fulfilling career and be a good mom.
One of the biggest lessons I've learned in my career is the importance of listening. Patients often come in scared and overwhelmed, and taking the time to listen to their fears helps build trust. I love the quote by Theodore Roosevelt: "People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care." It reminds me to always approach my patients with empathy and understanding.
During my fellowship in Jackson, Mississippi, life was chaotic. We had no family nearby, and I had two kids under the age of two. I was taking call as a fellow, moonlighting at the VA, and studying for my boards. It was a tough time, but we made it through, and I managed to pass my boards. That experience showed me that I can handle whatever life throws at me.
Family is a priority for me. I want my kids to know that I love Jesus, their dad, and them. My favorite part of the day is after bath time when we snuggle up on the couch together. It’s a moment of calm where I can catch my breath. I also love doing bedtime with them, reading a book, and saying our prayers. During basketball season, when Butch is busy, we have "Girls' Nights" where we watch a movie and eat dinner together. The girls look forward to it all day, and it reminds me that even the smallest things can mean so much to them.
My children teach me something every day. Their kind hearts and ability to forgive inspire me to be a better person. Despite the challenges, being a working mom brings me immense joy and fulfillment.
The area’s only community-based oncology practice, Southern Cancer Center has been taking care of patients in Baldwin County for over 15 years.
We know each cancer is unique and so is every patient. That’s why our experts deliver comprehensive cancer treatment through an integrated, team-based approach to give you the best possible outcome.
Wendy Clarke, Nurse Practitioner Breast Surgical Oncology
Angelene Naro
Au.D., CCC-A, F-AAA
DOCTOR OF AUDIOLOGY
How does the comprehensive approach of Naro Audiology improve a patient's quality of care?
At Naro Audiology, our mission is to provide advanced audiological services, including hearing healthcare and dizziness and balance testing. But what truly sets us apart is our commitment to building relationships with our patients. We ensure that each patient receives personalized attention and care, tailored to their unique needs. Our compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care is the cornerstone of our patient relationships. We are dedicated to developing thoroughly researched and personalized care for each individual we work with, striving to provide quality care for those residing in Baldwin, Mobile, and Escambia counties.
Tell us about the comments from patients that touch you the most. Our patients' testimonials are a powerful testament to the impact of our services. Their stories of life-changing improvements inspire us and reassure you of the positive outcomes you can expect. It is enriching when patients tell us that their lives have improved. When our patients can hear again, age and personal background are not a concern. We hope that they will be able to enjoy life again.
What sets you apart?
What sets us apart is our unique services. We are proud to be a part of this exceptional network offering dizziness and balance testing that is exclusive to Alabama’s Gulf Coast. Our partnership with the American Institute of Balance allows us to conduct state-of-the-art VNG testing on individuals experiencing vertigo and balance issues. We meticulously examine the vestibular system for an accurate, formal diagnosis.
A. BRIAN ALLEN, DO
JACOB J. JORNS, MD
ROBERT C. BROWN, MD, FPMRS
JEREMY S. NORWOOD, MD
G. COLEMAN OSWALT, JR., MD
D. KEITH TURNBULL, MD
CHRIS D. PETRUS, MD
KRISTOPHER W. WHITEHEAD, MD
The South Baldwin Chamber Foundation held its third annual Casino Night Fundraiser at the Foley Civic Center. The event featured 8 to 10 casino-style games, hors d’oeuvres from Sugarlove Food Truck, and “play chips” for the tables. Chips entered guests into a raffle for prizes. The BYOB event featured DJ entertainment and a digital photo booth. Proceeds supported SBCF’s educational programs. We are a non-profit, independent charitable foundation that serves thirteen area schools in the Foley & Elberta High school feeder patterns in Baldwin County.
Photos by Ruili Cai
Esther and Jonathan Milne
Megan Michaelson and Ally Dorrough
Casey and Christina Buckner
Rachel Spear and Justina Ralston
Wendy Troup and Caroline Walters
Jerry Handled, Andrea Rodriguez, Kerri Faber and Andrew Blansett
Justina and Alex Martin
Alex and Krischelle Sweeney
Brigette Martin and Allison Pryor
Jennifer and Marc Crawford
Kim Conn and Tammy Busby
Zach and Reagan Goff
Wendy and Pat Troup
Lindsey McAlpin-Pinegar and Cat McRae Cook
Dan and Ally Dorrough
Sabrina and Chris May
Derrick and Cat McRae Cook
Linda and Robert Frantz
Rachel Spear and Donna Watts
Jessica Kane and Jake Preiser
Colby Thompson, Paige Clemmons, Tommy Clemmons, Alexis Willis and Aaron Willis
Whether you desire Private Air Charter or have an interest in one of our Fractional Aircraft Ownership Programs, we are here to assist you with all of your personal and business travels from the Gulf Coast area. Looking for Travel Ideas, Travel Packages & Dining Destinations? Please contact us for details, we look forward to having you experience these exceptional offerings.
Reagan Goff, Kylee Raulerson, Rachel Spear, Derrick Cook and Travis Valentine
Whitney and Hunter Robinson
Kimberly Ray, Will Ray and Kylee Raulerson
Tammy Botox and Bernadette Doles
Taylor and Ashley Davis
BRYANT GALLOWAY WHELAN
Bryant's artwork reflects her fascination with natural forms, their shapes and intrinsic beauty. By immortalizing the imagery inspired by her nature walks Whelan hopes to evoke a reverence for the biodiversity of our environment and shoreline. Her mixed media process combines drawing and painting with stitching, photography, collage and printmaking on paper and fabric.
Whelan exhibits in galleries and museums along the Gulf Coast and has won numerous awards for her work. Her fine art can be found in private collections throughout the country.
BFA, Auburn University
Bowled Over By
Margaret Grace Davis and Dalton Wayne Morgan celebrated their love with a wedding that shimmered with personal touches and unforgettable moments. Grace, Marketing and Sales Director for The Hope Farm, and Dalton, Owner of Southern Spray Solutions LLC, met at an Iron Bowl party in 2020, a moment that sparked a romance destined for more.
PHOTOS BY KARA BETH CARR PHOTOGRAPHY
The proposal, a surprise in the heart of the French Quarter of New Orleans, was an amazing night the couple will never forget. During a special dinner at Mr. B’s Bistro, as dessert arrived, Grace was stunned to find her engagement ring on the platter. It was a moment of pure joy and surprise, marking the beginning of their journey to the altar.
The wedding, held at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Fairhope, radiated with elegance and personal flair. Grace meticulously crafted every detail; from the Madison James Wedding Dress she wore—a pleated off-the-shoulder gown in soft brushed satin—to the intricate ceremony programs and invitations she personally designed. Grace looks back fondly on how amazing it was to see how all the planning she and her mom did over the eight months prior to the big day unfolded. “My mom was by my side every step of the way. I couldn’t have done it without her.” The color palette of pinks, sage green, white, and cream lent an air of timeless romance to the occasion. With 12 bridesmaids and 11 groomsmen, along with three flower girls and a ring bearer, the ceremony was surrounded by loved ones.
The reception at The Hope Farm featured a delectable spread, including charred tomato tartines, shrimp and grits, braised short ribs over grits, and a late-night snack of fried chicken sliders and pomme frites. The wedding cake was a four-tiered masterpiece with white vanilla layers, cream cheese icing, and raspberry filling. The ISING LIVE BAND performed a dynamic show that kept everyone on their feet. A notable highlight was the surprise getaway car—an original H1 Hummer selected by Grace's parents. Grace shared that she and Dalton were totally caught off guard. “It was super fun to see the look on their faces and how excited they were. My dad loved it so much he wanted to get in with us!”
Following their fairytale wedding, Grace and Dalton escaped to Barbados for a honeymoon at a luxurious island resort, savoring their first days as newlyweds. Now settled in their home in Fairhope, they continue to cherish each other and the memories of their magical wedding day, a testament to their love and shared dreams.
For You & Your Family
A dazzling, healthy smile has many benefits; it instills confidence, allows you to enjoy the food and drinks you love and enhances your appearance.
Nobody understands this better than Doctor Sweeney and Doctor McEvoy – We are more than your neighborhood dentist – we’re friends, parents, neighbors and active members of our community, just like you!
We are a full-service family dentistry practice. We offer the latest cosmetic dentistry treatments to enhance your smile. For the children and elderly adults in your family, we offer pediatric and geriatric dental care. All of your needs can be met at our office, including:
Care • Zoom! Teeth
We welcome the opportunity to make the Eastern Shore a better place by instilling confidence, pride and excellent oral hygiene habits in patients like you. Schedule an appointment now to discover the what makes us different.
TOP PROVIDERS DIRECTORY
Dr. Gregory M. Sweeney Jr, DMD
Morgan K. McEvoy, DMD
La Vita Verto
Hurley Behavorial & Mental Health
Dermatology Crunch Fitness Daphne
Coastal Vein Institute Eastern Shore Cosmetic Surgery
USA Health Mapp Family Campus earns Beautification Award from Fairhope Tree Committee
[FAIRHOPE, AL] — Citing its unique architectural structure, planting landscape and design, USA Health’s Mapp Family Campus recently was honored with a beautification award from the City of Fairhope Tree Committee.
Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan met with USA Health officials to thank them for their work to create a beautiful place for patients to visit and community members to gather. “It is exciting to honor an organization that takes pride in Fairhope and reflects that in their architectural and landscape design,” Sullivan said.
Surrounded by young magnolias and other native plants, the Mapp Family Campus is home to Baldwin Family Medicine and USA Health specialty care providers, plus the Baldwin County Surgery Center, where community physicians perform outpatient procedures, allowing patients and their families to stay close to home.
Designed to create a peaceful environment, the campus includes multiple water features, walking paths, and outdoor educational and gathering areas. Located at the southeast corner of state highways 181 and 104 in Fairhope, the three-story structure also has become a spot where community members gather. A teaching kitchen allows providers and guests to engage patients in healthy-eating classes, with the goal of helping people lead longer, better lives.
Louis and Melinda Mapp donated nearly 8 acres of land for the campus, and the University of South Alabama named the campus in their honor. The Mapps are long-time supporters of USA Health and are volunteers at University Hospital and Children’s & Women’s Hospital.
USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute researcher named 2024 recipient of Samuel H. Wilson Award for Studies on DNA Repair
[MOBILE, AL] — Aishwarya Prakash, Ph.D., has been named recipient of the 2024 EMGS Samuel H. Wilson Award for Studies on DNA Repair by the Environmental Mutagenesis and Genomics Society (EMGS).
“I am deeply honored to receive the Sam Wilson Award for DNA Repair,” Prakash said. “Though I didn’t train directly under Sam, he was a mentor to me in many ways. His passing left a significant void in the scientific community, but his legacy lives on through his many trainees, several of whom are my close colleagues and collaborators.”
Created in honor of scientist Samuel H. Wilson, M.D., the award is given to provide career advancement opportunities for the next generation of environmental health scientists. Award candidates are evaluated based on their teaching experience, commitment to mentorship and their recent scientific accomplishments.
USA Health Providence Hospital recognized for higher quality in bariatric surgical care
[FAIRHOPE, AL] — USA Health Providence Hospital has been recognized by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama with a Blue Distinction® Centers for Bariatric Surgery designation, part of the Blue Distinction Specialty Care program.
Blue Distinction Centers are nationally designated healthcare facilities that show a commitment to delivering high quality patient safety and better health outcomes, based on objective measures that were developed with input from the medical community and leading accreditation and quality organizations.
The Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Surgery program provides a full range of bariatric surgery care, including surgical care, post-operative care, outpatient follow-up care, and patient education.
To receive a Blue Distinction Centers for Bariatric Surgery designation, a healthcare facility must demonstrate that it meets many specific patient quality and safety metrics. Primarily, a program must be able to show that it is providing effective bariatric surgical procedures (sleeve gastrectomy and roux en y gastric bypass) with a very low complication and readmission rate.
Infirmary Health Welcomes Michael Hennigan, M.D. to Coastal Medical Group
[FAIRHOPE, AL] — Michael Hennigan, M.D., board-certified internal medicine physician and fellow of the American College of Endrocrinology, joins Coastal Medical Group (CMG). Dr. Hennigan has more than 30 years of clinical experience in the care of patients with diabetes, lipid disorders and other endocrine diseases such as thyroid disease, metabolic disorders and others.
Dr. Hennigan is a graduate of the University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science degree. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of South Alabama and completed his residency in internal medicine with the University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, TX. Dr. Hennigan has served on the boards for the Alabama and Florida Quality Assurance Foundation, helping oversee Medicare quality improvement. Additionally, Dr. Hennigan served as a medical director for Novo Nordisk, a provider of diabetes medication.
CMG has five locations in Baldwin County with specialties including endocrinology, family medicine, internal medicine, neurology, pulmonology and sleep medicine. Dr. Hennigan will see patients at CMG’s location behind Thomas Hospital in Fairhope. Call 251-929-3424 to schedule an appointment.
Diagnostic & Medical Clinic welcomes cardiologist, Terry Wilsdorf, M.D.
[DAPHNE, AL] — Terry Wilsdorf, M.D., fellowship-trained cardiologist, joins Diagnostic & Medical Clinic (DMC). As a cardiologist with more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Wilsdorf will conduct clinical and hospital based cardiac health evaluations, discuss diagnosis, and implement individualized treatment plans. Additionally, Dr. Wilsdorf will perform diagnostic testing such as cardiopulmonary stress tests, perfusion imaging studies, echocardiograms, transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), and many others.
Dr. Wilsdorf earned his medical degree from the University of South Alabama and completed his residency in internal medicine with Baylor College of Medicine. He is fellowship-trained in adult cardiovascular medicine by Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Dr. Wilsdorf previously practiced with Infirmary Health from 2001-2019 and returns to the area from practicing in Pensacola, Florida.
Dr. Wilsdorf will see patients at Diagnostic & Medical Clinic’s location in Daphne. He is now accepting new patients; call 251-625-8223 to schedule an appointment. Learn more at diagnosticandmedical.com.
Brandon Johnson, RN, with Thomas Hospital’s Emergency Department, was recently honored with The DAISY Award®
For Extraordinary Nurses
[FAIRHOPE, AL] — Brandon Johnson, RN, with Thomas Hospital’s Emergency Department, was recently honored with The DAISY Award® For Extraordinary Nurses. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation's programs to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day.
Brandon’s nomination was submitted by the granddaughter of a patient who elaborated on the excellent care Brandon provided, specifically noting his expert nursing skills and compassion coupled with his ability to handle stressful situations with care and professionalism.
The not-for-profit DAISY Foundation is based in Glen Ellen, CA, and was established by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes. The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.
Thomas Hospital Receives Six Women’s Choice Awards®
[FAIRHOPE, AL] — Thomas Hospital, an affiliate of Infirmary Health, has received the 2024 Women’s Choice Awards® for heart care, mammography, minimally invasive surgery, obstetrics, orthopaedics and patient safety. These awards indicate that Thomas Hospital is nationally ranked among 4,728 U.S. hospitals offering these services. The Women’s Choice Award educates all women on where to receive the best care and focuses its research on hospitals that provide the highest quality patient experience.
Thomas Hospital has also earned recognition as High Performing by U.S. News & World Report in its 2023-24 Best Hospitals rankings and ratings for maternity, heart attack, colon cancer surgery and knee replacement. They are the only hospital in Alabama to receive the maternity designation. Additionally, Thomas Hospital has been designated as a Blue Distinction Center+ for maternity care as well as knee and hip replacement.
Thomas Hospital offers the only open-heart surgery program in Baldwin County, and is home to Colony Rehabilitation Hospital, a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities accredited facility, which provides inpatient rehabilitation care for patients. Thomas Hospital continues to be the area leader for delivering the most babies in Baldwin County.
North Baldwin Infirmary Receives Women’s Choice Award® for Obstetrics
[BAY MINETTE, AL] — North Baldwin Infirmary (NBI), an affiliate of Infirmary Health, has received a 2024 Women’s Choice Award® for obstetrics. The award signifies that North Baldwin Infirmary (NBI) is in the top 13% of the 4,728 U.S. hospitals offering labor & delivery services. The Women’s Choice Award educates all women on where to receive the best care and focuses its research on hospitals that provide the highest quality patient experience, especially important for potential labor complications.
Additionally, the birth center at NBI is one of only eight Baby-Friendly® facilities in the state of Alabama. According to Baby-Friendly USA, Inc., designation is earned when hospitals are assessed and successfully exhibit implementation of the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding in the U.S., the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes and, additionally, demonstrate widespread understanding of and enthusiasm for best practice infant feeding care.
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Eastern Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours for June was held at the Fairhope office of Southern Eye Group. This monthly event brings members together in a casual setting for networking accompanied by refreshing beverages and hors d’oeuvres.
Photos by Cindy McCrory
Gabriel Puello and Chris Burgess
Mark and Mia Martin
Mandy Bezeredi and Heather DeRose
Darby Ulery and CJ Ezell
Ginger McNamara, Amy Kate Moore and Ronnie Moore
Gale Croft, Jennier Doan, Allie Thatcher, Susan Kilby and Catie Cullen
Jason and Debra Schmidt
Emily Trione and Chelsea Payne
Timothy Wren and Garrett Hughes
