JLM Spring 2017 folio

SPRING 2017

Summer BUCKET LIST GET INSPIRED BY

JENNA BUSH HAGER TOUR MOBILE’S

Literary Legacy TOAST ANY OCCASION WITH

SPARKLING WINE folio spring 2017

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CONTENTS SPRING 2017

15

Jenna Bush Hager

IN EVERY ISSUE

PROMOTING VOLUNTEERISM

5 advertisers index

9 community thank yous

6 letter from the president

23 summer bucketlist

12 jubilee bargains unbelievable finds & funding the mission

28 toast any occasion with sparkling wine

15 jenna bush hager inspires hundreds of jlm members

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how to advertise Learn how you can advertise in the next issue of folio

10 contributors to folio 38 calendar of events Find out what’s happening around the area

4

BUILDING COMMUNITY

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31 a tour of mobile’s literary legacy 31 travel through time on the dora franklin finley african-american heritage trail

35

The Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail

31

26

Meet JLM’s Sustainer of the Year Elizabeth Diehl

DEVELOPING WOMEN 10 sustainer spotlight

Meet Sustainer of the Year Sharee Broussard 18 suit yourself

ADVERTISERS INDEX

Cooper Restaurants ................................................ PG 2

Holiday, Inc............................................................PG 27

iHeart Radio ............................................................ PG 3

Ocean Springs, MS................................................PG 27

Friedman’s Fine Jewelry.......................................... PG 7

Lamar.....................................................................PG 30

Designer Collection................................................. PG 8

Claude Moore Jeweler..........................................PG 34

The Maids..............................................................PG 10

St. Mary’s Catholic School......................................PG 34

Servis 1st Bank......................................................PG 14

The Center for Reproductive Medicine..................PG 34

Regions ......................................... Centerfold PG 20–21

High Cotton...........................................................PG 37

Roberts Brothers...................................................PG 22

The Orthopaedic Group, P.C...................................PG 37

WKRG....................................................................PG 26

Chapel Farm Collection.........................................PG 39

Corpus Christi Catholic School...............................PG 27

UMS-Wright Preparatory School.................... Back Cover

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President’s Letter Our members are the backbone of the Junior League of Mobile (JLM). Without them we would not be the organization that we are today.

JLM is filled with committed women who give their time and energy to conduct our fundraisers, run our community placements and make sure that JLM remains the outstanding organization that it has been for 86 years. What a legacy that is continuing to grow!

As you read this issue of folio remember that all of the articles are written by our members. On top of their busy lives they have chosen to share their gift of writing with JLM and the readers of folio.

As spring blossoms along the Gulf Coast, take this issue of folio and read it at the beach, the ballpark or on your porch with a glass of bubbly. Take some time and enjoy the articles.

With each issue I always learn something new and hope you enjoy it as much I do.

Nancy Erwin President, Junior League of Mobile 2016–2017

Over the years my children often asked me “why are you going to another JLM meeting (or project or fundraiser)?” I explained to them that we are all trying to improve our community with acts of service, whether big or small. We all want to achieve the collective goal of improving our community. The work that JLM members do on a daily basis has a hand in shaping the community we love, and drives how it will be in the future. I celebrate all of our members and especially say ‘thank you’ to our donors and sponsors for their continued support.

Best, Nancy

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A COMMUNITY PUBLICATION OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF MOBILE EDITOR Kasee Heisterhagen CONTRIBUTORS Melissa Lerch, Assistant Editor, Beth Rugan, Lee Williams Weldon, Contina Woods, Jenny Humphries, Ashley Babb GRAPHIC DESIGNER Courtney R. Smith MISSION STATEMENT Junior League of Mobile is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. folio is published twice a year. All rights are reserved. Reproduction without permission, except by other Junior League publications, is prohibited.

The office is located at 57 N. Sage Ave., Mobile AL 36607, (251) 471-3348.

Learn more at www.juniorleaguemobile.org.

THIS MOTHER’S DAY. TREAT YOURSELF.

HOW TO ADVERTISE IN FOLIO Please address all advertising space and rate inquiries to: folio Magazine, Ad Manager 57 N. Sage Ave. Mobile, AL 36607 p: (251) 471-3348 f: (251) 471-3340 e: headquarters@juniorleaguemobile.org For more information or to download an advertising contract, visit us at: www.juniorleaguemobile.org

FA L L I N LOV E WI T H

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Letter from the Editor While editing this issue of folio, I was struck by the wonderful heritage of our area and the work that the Junior League of Mobile (JLM) does to preserve and contribute to it.

From our legacy projects of the past to our work to build for the future, each member of JLM has a hand in shaping the culture, climate and future of the Mobile area.

I hope that you will enjoy reading about JLM’s fastest-growing fundraiser, Jubilee Bargains, and plan to take part in the fun (p. 12). Hear words of wisdom from Jenna Bush Hager who spoke to JLM in September (p. 15). Make plans with family and friends by checking off items on our Summer Bucket List (p. 19). Walk through Mobile’s Literary Legacy to select a great read (p. 31) then take a break to relax with an expertly selected sparkling wine (p. 26). And, finally, I hope you will learn about all of the history that is offered on the Dora Franklin Finley African American Heritage Trail and will plan a tour to each significant spot in the near future (p. 35). Perhaps you will learn, as I did, that you drive by some of these heritage sites every day and will pause in recognition the next time you pass by.

Kasee Heisterhagen folio Editor, 2016–2017

Make the most of your spring and summer before it gets too hot. As Mobile’s own Eugene Walter said, “Summer in the deep South is not only a season, a climate, it’s a dimension. Floating in it, one must be either proud or submerged.”

—Kasee Heisterhagen

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Community Thank Yous

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Contributors to folio

Mr. Grits (really fat cat)

Beth Rugan

Jenny Humphreys

Ashley Babb

Spouse Brian Shepard

Occupation Digital Media Administrator at CPSI

Occupation Marketing / Project Design Group, Inc.

Pets Watson (dog) and

Occupation Academic Librarian at University of South Alabama Hobbies/Activities Reading, boating with my husband (we love the beach) and working-out… yes, I really do enjoy it.

Favorite Thing About JLM I love getting to hang out with really awesome, service-minded women while doing something great and impactful in the community.

Something Most People Don’t Know About Me Al Gore is a charlatan, I invented the internet.

Why I Love Mobile The people, the architecture, the climate, the history, the attitude. How about just everything? Why would anyone not want to live here?

Hobbies/Activities Hosting themed parties and reading.

Favorite Thing About JLM I have two—the skills I have developed and all the wonderful friendships I have made!

Something Most People Don’t Know About Me I collect 51-cent pennies (AKA pressed penny souvenirs).

Why I Love Mobile I love it all—the weather, architecture, trees, history, people, food and Mardi Gras!

Hobbies/Activities I enjoy traveling, listening to live music, finding new restaurants, and going to the beach. I’m also a PRCA—Mobile Chapter Board Member, Mobile Area Council of Engineers Board Member and PEP Volunteer.

Favorite Thing About JLM JLM offers a great way to not only get involved in the community, but I’ve also met some wonderful women and made some great friends. JLM has also provided me opportunities to do more public relations and social media marketing that I sometimes don’t get in my day job.

Something Most People Don’t Know About Me I love Nashville! I try to visit at least once a year.

Why I Love Mobile After living in Dothan, West Palm Beach and Orlando I truly appreciate our beautiful area! It’s conveniently located close to the beach and it offers so much history and charm. Of course, there’s also Mardi Gras!

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Referred for a reason.

SUSTAINER SPOTLIGHT

ShareeBroussard

BY KASEE HEISTERHAGEN

W

hen Sharee Broussard joined the Junior League of Mobile (JLM), she was strongly influenced by her respect for JLM pillars such as Carolyn Akers, Caroline Etherton, Meg Mattei, Marietta Urqhart, Gigi Armbrecht and many other strong women she had met through her work with the United Way of Southwest Alabama. In remembering her early days with JLM, she recalled: “It was obvious that if something needed to be done, a Junior Leaguer could make it happen.” Little did Sharee know that she would become that force for change.

Sharee Broussard

Sharee has served in many placements with JLM, but some of her most rewarding experiences have included seeing her former students rise to become Junior League members in their own communities, including filling some substantial leadership positions.

Alyse Quinn, a former JLM member and current member of the Junior League of Greater Orlando, was strongly influenced by Broussard:

“Sharee was my communications professor, mentor, and friend. We met while I was her student at Spring Hill College.

Sharee was also the first Junior Leaguer I’d ever met. I remember when she explained the League to me and introduced me to other Junior Leaguers locally, who were all amazing go-getters in town, I knew I wanted to be part of this group of women when I planted roots in a city.”

Quinn continued: “Sharee embodies my definition of a servant leader. And I think JLM plays a huge role in nurturing her passion for volunteerism, mentorship, and her love for making the local community better. I wouldn’t have the professional/civic outlook or opportunity I’ve had through my career and League experience without Sharee’s example and encouragement. I’m proudly in my 4th year in the Junior League of Greater Orlando and running my creative agency, Big Vision—a dream that Sharee helped me to achieve through her education and support over the years. We’ve been friends for over 10 years now. I’m forever grateful for knowing this amazing woman.”

Many JLM members have been inspired to achieve what they thought they could not do, to stretch outside their comfort zones, or to learn and experience something new. For Sharee, helping others to achieve may have been her greatest contribution.

Sharee believes that JLM’s greatest contribution to the community, aside from its many legacy projects and agencies, is that JLM truly breeds “effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.” As she noted, “JLM members definitely contribute to organizational development and capacity wherever they go.

The greatest contribution to members is that it facilitates growth—it can be a really safe space to exercise or acquire skills.”

As a Sustainer, Sharee’s objective has shifted. She believes that “the role of a sustainer is to maintain support so that JLM can be for other women what it was for you. I believe a sustainer should provide some alternate perspective and history. It’s different from being an active because you’re no longer shaping or doing, you’re simply advising.” But Sharee still has some advice for Active members:

“You get out of it what you put into it. So be all in! Decide why you are a member and work to achieve your goal for membership, whether that’s meeting people, serving others, exercising leadership skills, or learning new things. The beauty of JLM is that it brings together, for a common cause, women who may never otherwise meet, so it’s important that JLM remains a melting pot of women interested in promoting volunteerism, improving the community and developing the potential of women.”

Sharee wants all JLM members to remember that “it is important that JLM remain firmly rooted in its mission, which ends with ‘It’s purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.’

JLM needs to occupy a space that is distinct from other types of organizations.” She also values the role of mentorship: “I highly encourage current JLM Actives and Sustainers to actively recruit new members and help shepherd them through their first few years—members recruiting members was how the organization sustained itself and I believe that needs new emphasis.”

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BY: ASHLEY BABB

UNBELIEVABLE FINDS & FUNDING THE MISSION

Hundreds of shoppers can land a deal at the Fourth Annual Jubilee Bargains Rummage Sale this March. Jubilee Bargains offers gently used children’s clothing and toys, housewares, shoes, purses, appliances, furniture, adult clothing and many other items at bargain prices. There are even designer items and new merchandise donated by local retailers.

This year, Jubilee Bargains will be held in a new location. The 20,000 square-foot building (formerly Goodwill) is next to Party City at the intersections of Azalea Road and Airport Boulevard. The location for the event was graciously donated by WhiteSpunner Realty.

Jubilee Bargains Chair Meagan Barnett says the new space is key to a successful event. “The space is highly visible, so we’re expecting another large crowd this year,” said Barnett.

“Whether you are looking for household items, a collector’s item or just love a good deal, there is something for everyone at Jubilee Bargains. The money that is raised will directly benefit Mobile and Baldwin counties by allowing the Junior League of Mobile (JLM) to make an impact in our focus areas of hunger, fitness and nutrition.

You can get a great deal all while giving back to the community by supporting Jubilee Bargains,” said JLM President Nancy Erwin.

Barnett says the sale is a great way to find deals on items you normally pay much more for, like a wedding dress. “Last year we had a woman who tried on a wedding dress a few weeks before it was donated by Something New Bridal. One of our members spotted it and told her about the dress, not knowing she had tried on the dress before it was donated. The woman bought the dress for half-off at our sale,” said Barnett.

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HOW JUBILEE BARGAINS GIVES BACK The money raised through the annual sale supports Junior League community improvement projects, programs and community organizations. The popular sale is one of three fundraisers for the Junior League of Mobile and it keeps growing bigger each year.

“Last year we raised $50,000 for JLM. We had over 1,200 people in attendance over the course of the entire sale,” said Barnett.

A $10 purchase at Jubilee Bargains allows JLM volunteers to teach children in programs at Dumas Wesley and local Girl Scout troops the importance of physical activity in their daily lives, resulting in improvements to their BMI and increased energy, strength, endurance and confidence.

When you spend $15 at Jubilee Bargains, you help JLM provide nutrition education to children by teaching them how to grow fresh food, seasonal fruits, herbs and vegetables through partnerships with

LAST YEAR WE RAISED $50,000 FOR JLM. WE HAD OVER 1,200 PEOPLE IN ATTENDANCE OVER THE COURSE OF THE ENTIRE SALE. The Exploreum, Kids in the Kitchen and St. Mary’s Home.

For every $35 purchase, JLM provides nutritious weekly food and resources to 7 of the 95 students regularly supported through the JLM Backpack Program.

For every $100 purchase at Jubilee Bargains, JLM helps alleviate hunger by providing a variety of nutritious food items to children in low-income households through Feed America and The Joseph Project.

Volunteers spend thousands of hours getting the building ready, sorting donations and pricing items. “We have some long days and nights where volunteers are sorting and putting out donations. But we have a great committee that really has a lot of fun with it,” said Barnett.

SHOPPING EVENTS Jubilee Bargains offers two different experiences for shoppers. “Peek and Purchase” has a party atmosphere. Shoppers can get a firstchance at items, bid on silent auction items and enjoy good food and beverages. Peek and Purchase is a 21-and-up event.

“It’s perfect if you want to shop in a smaller crowd element. This year we have some great packages in the silent auction,” said Barnett.

PEEK & PURCHASE: Thursday, March 23rd, 2017, 6 p.m.–9 p.m.

21+ Event, $30 per person (includes entry to Saturday Early Bird Sale) Limited tickets available. Silent auction, live music, food and beverages.

BARGAIN BLITZ—NEW EVENT! Friday, March 24th, 2017, 6 p.m.–8 p.m. $15 ticket, 17 & under are free. Tickets only available online or at the door.

EARLY BIRD SALE: Saturday, March 25th, 2017, 7 a.m.–9 a.m. $3.00 ticket, 17 & under are free. Tickets only available at the door.

COMMUNITY SALE: Saturday, March 25th, 2017, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

FREE admission and no ticket necessary.

HALF-PRICE SALE: Sunday, March 26th, 2017, 1 p.m.–4 p.m.

FREE admission and no ticket necessary. Remaining merchandise will be marked down. Shop one last time before it’s all gone!

Purchase tickets at JLMJubileeBargains.org. folio spring 2017

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JENNA BUSH HAGER Inspires Hundreds of JLM Members at Sustainer Luncheon

BY ASHLEY BABB folio spring 2017

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Jenna Bush Hager spoke to a record crowd of about 400 Junior League of Mobile (JLM) members at the Sustainer Luncheon at the Battle House in late September of 2016. For the first time the luncheon was open to active members and included many special guests from the community.

J

enna is the daughter of former President George W. Bush. She is a correspondent for NBC’s Today Show and lives in New York City with her husband, Henry, and two daughters, Mila and Poppy.

At the luncheon in Mobile, Jenna spoke about education, her passion for volunteering and how her parents influenced her to make a difference in the lives of people. “I love talking to women’s groups like the Junior League because I think any group that supports and empowers women to give back to their community is really awesome,” said Hager.

JLM President Nancy Erwin said: “It was truly so exciting to see a room of women come together all because of JLM! To see and feel the excitement that was in the room was really energizing.” Erwin also noted that “it was overwhelming to see firsthand so many women who love JLM and personally have given so much of their time to our organization. We have so much to be proud of and celebrate as members of JLM.”

In 2006, Hager moved to Latin America as an intern for UNICEF, an organization that provides humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and mothers in developing countries. She shared several stories about working with UNICEF at the luncheon. She said being part of the “first family” allowed her the cultural opportunities that changed her life. “I definitely grew up in a family that was interested in service,” said Hager.

While with UNICEF in Latin America, her job was to write the stories of children who were living in extreme poverty and had no access to proper education. There, she met a 17 year-old single mother named Ana, living with HIV. She was so moved and inspired

by Ana’s story that she wrote her first book, “Ana’s Story: A Journey of Hope.” In 2007, she appeared on the Today Show as a guest to promote the book. Jenna is now the chair of UNICEF’s Next Generation, an initiative that reduces the number of preventable deaths around the world.

Hager is also a former teacher and she’s passionate about education. Her latest book, “Our Great Big Backyard,” which she co-wrote with her mother, was published in May 2016. She co-wrote that book while pregnant with her second child. The book features a young girl who explores national parks with her family. It also coincided with the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. Another book, “Read All About It!” was published in 2008, which she also wrote with her mother. “We need to get our kids outside to play,” said Hager.

As a working mom, she keeps a busy schedule. Her new show on NBC, “Give,” airs on Saturday mornings. She and her co-host, actor Blair Underwood, travel around highlighting small non-profits that are making a big impact. She is also an editor-at-large for “Southern Living” magazine. “I’m a working mom who travels at least once a week, so when I’m with my kids I really just try to be 100% present,” said Hager.

JLM was grateful for Hager’s wise words and enthusiastic to move forward having learned from her experiences.

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Suit Yourself

BY LEE WILLIAMS WELDON

I

t is 7:30 am, work starts at 8:00, and you find yourself staring at your closet. “I have nothing to wear!” We have all been there. Finding the right outfit can be challenging, regardless of one’s profession. Whether it is a meeting with a client, a presentation to a board, or even a cocktail party, it is important to dress to suit yourself. After scouring countless articles, blogs, Pinterest boards and from life experience, the following tips are sure to help one find the right look.

1

In order to be comfortable dressing for any occasion from a day at the office to an evening wedding, it is essential to be comfortable with your style. The following tips can help you determine what to wear. Do you hate shopping and wish someone else would just tell you what to wear? There are personal shoppers available to help you achieve the look you want. It is now as simple as finding a company online to help with that. Stitch Fix and Trunk Club are just a few of the styling services that assists with finding one’s style and sending clothes directly to your home. At the end of the day, it calls comes down to dressing to suit yourself.

Dress for Success.

Simple right? Success is different for every profession.

Casual attire may be appropriate for some jobs, while a suit is more appropriate for others. Know what the expectations are for your job. No one wants to show up underdressed. It is always a good idea to keep a neutral blazer hanging in your office just in case you need to dress up your outfit. Some questions to consider when selecting an outfit for the day: • Who is the audience?

• Do I have an important meeting?

• What might others be wearing to the event?

• Check the invitation if going to a party — is

there suggested attire?

• This is Mobile after all, what is the temperature

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and is rain in the forecast?

� 3 � Stick to the basics.

Accessorize.

There is a lot to be said for wearing

Do not go overboard! The right

If it does not fit, do not wear it.

black pants or skirt and a blazer.

accessories can take a simple look to

Yes, we all have those pieces that we

Almost any shirt is compatible with

the next level. Shoes, jewelry, belts,

love, but maybe they really do not fit

this ensemble. Invest in these staple

handbags, scarves and hats are the

us well. We could all use a 360-degree

pieces of clothing adding a few shells,

easiest way to give oneself multiple

mirror like Stacey and Clinton used in

button down shirts and a comfortable

options with the same piece of

the show What Not To Wear. Use your

pair of pumps. Have you considered

clothing. Consider a few accessories

best judgment. Is the dress too tight

building a capsule wardrobe? There

such as animal print shoes and a

and too short? It might be time to

are countless guides on the internet

few skinny belts that can instantly

pass it on to someone else.

for achieving a capsule wardrobe.

transform any outfit. Tired of wearing

Who wouldn’t want to build thirty out-

the same basics every day? Mix it up

fits out of only ten articles of clothing?

with some new accessories.

5 6 � Hair and makeup are necessary.

Find your style.

What to avoid.

Everyone knows someone who

Do not be too casual. Leggings are

Perhaps you are one of the few wom-

makes you think: “Wow, she is always

in and yes, they are comfortable and

en that only needs a touch of mascara

dressed just right for the occasion.”

stylish, but they are not to be substi-

and lipstick, but for the rest of us,

It is great to get inspiration from

tuted for pants. It is always better to

we can really “suit ourselves” for a

that person and add your own flair

be overdressed than underdressed.

professional look by putting on some

to make a style your own. Boutiques

Avoid ill-fitting clothing and make sure

makeup. Most workplaces frown when

are the best places to shop to find

that that your clothing is hemmed

you show up to work with wet hair

unique pieces to add to your style to

at just the right length. Less is more

and your makeup bag in hand. Get

suit yourself.

when it comes to perfume.

ready for the day before you leave the house. A manicure will also help achieve a more polished look. folio spring 2017

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From Left to Right: Danielle Taylor, Carolyn Hasser, Ivy Thompson,Connie Smith, Pam Stein, Barbara Wells, Diane Horst, Luci Ladd, Anna Luce

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When spring fever hits, that’s the perfect time to start planning your summer bucket list. Whether you’re looking for a couples event, family adventures or girls-only escapes, the following summer bucket lists are sure to help you make the most out of the season!

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Need a little time with your significant other?

1. Capture a sunset! The Mobile area offers plenty of choices for a breathtaking view from Dauphin Island—the Sunset Capital of Alabama—to the picturesque view of Mobile Bay from the Fairhope pier. Don’t forget a chance to see sunset over downtown Mobile at Dauphin’s.

2. While ArtWalk is an experience that anyone can enjoy, it definitely makes for a great night out for adults. Second Fridays of every month are the best times to meander around all the galleries, shops, restaurants and bars that downtown Mobile has to offer.

3. Escape from the heat and find “new” items for your house by exploring the southwest Alabama Antique Trail. Find out more at www.alabamaantiquetrail.com.

4. Expand your knowledge by participating in the Grand Hotel’s Beverage Academy or Culinary Academy. A different theme is selected each month so you’ll be sure to find one that sounds enticing.

5. Looking for something competitive? Fairways Indoor Golf offers high-definition golf simulators, plus a full-service bar.

6. Mobile’s live music scene will be rocking all summer long! Try something different by visiting one of the newer venues like the Merry Widow, The Listening Room or The Steeple on St. Francis. Or visit one of the traditional locations that have been bringing great music to the area for decades such as the Saenger Theater, since 1927, and Callaghan’s Irish Social Club, since 1946.

7. You can kick off summer with Southern Napa’s 99 Bottles of Beer on the Lawn craft beer festival. As summer draws to a close, Dauphin Street Beer Festival is one of the last chances for adults to unwind before fall begins.

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Mobile and Baldwin counties offer plenty of opportunities for your family to experience a staycation all summer long!

1. Start the summer off right by joining the Summer Reading Program at your local library. Children can earn prizes for completing their reading goals and get the chance to have countless adventures.

2. Head over to the soon-to-be-opened Owa Amusement Park (opening May 17, 2017) which will feature TWENTY rides—a huge boon to our thrill-deprived region.

3. Kid’s Day in Bienville Square is happening every Thursday throughout the month of June. From 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. children can enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and special visitors.

4. All summer long your family can enjoy the Mobile Baybears – check their schedule frequently for different family-friendly activities and treats throughout the summer.

5. Mobile has an abundance of museums. When your family needs a break from their devices, check out the Mardi Gras Museum, the reopened GulfQuest National Maritime Museum, the History Museum of Mobile, the Baldwin County Heritage Museum and more!

6. Historic Blakely State Park offers plenty of opportunities for your family to get out and move around (before the heats gets to be too much).

7. Most summer weekends, your family can end the night by viewing an outdoor movie with ample opportunities across the area, such as Glow in the Park (Fairhope), Screen on the Green (Spring Hill) and Movie Night on the Beach (Dauphin Island).

Whether you have summers off or just need a break, there is always a need for time with your girlfriends!

1. Visit the First Friday Lawn Party at Oakleigh for food trucks, music and discounted tours.

2. Explore your bargain side by scouring garage sales to find the perfect piece of furniture. Then develop your creative side by learning to refinish it! (If you want a head start on your

furniture hunt, check out Junior League of Mobile’s Jubilee Bargains this March.)

3. Try out Aerial Yoga. This latest yoga trend combines traditional yoga moves with being suspended off the ground.

4. During the summer, air conditioning makes everything better.

The perfect place to cool off during girl’s night out is the Crescent Theatre, a movie house known for featuring independent movies.

5. Get up early! During the summer, the Bankhead Tunnel will again be open to pedestrians and cyclists on Saturday mornings. After you’ve had a chance to get moving, you and your friends can shop for fruit, vegetables, arts & crafts and more at Market on the Square.

6. Enjoy Funday Sunday with the girls at one of many brunch spots—Blind Mule, Five and Ashland Midtown Pub are favorites in Mobile while Rosie’s Grill and Boudreaux’s Cajun Grill always get rave reviews in Daphne.

7. No summer is complete without a road trip. Grab the girls and take a mini-road trip to the Wind Creek Casino & Hotel.

Make plans to spend the night and enjoy FIRE Steakhouse and then spend the next day relaxing at the spa. Feeling lucky?

Visit the casino or bowling alley to see if you can strike it big.

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Bill Riales

Jessica Taloney

John Nodar

NEWS TRAFFIC WEATHER Weekday Mornings Beginning at 4:30 am

MORNING PEOPLE MATTER! 26

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Ocean Springs MISSISSIPPI

More than 200 shopping, dining & nightlife choices.

Art galleries, museums, outdoor recreation & year round festivals.

SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL March 25 & 26

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TOAST ANY OCCASION WITH

sparkling wine

BY C O N T I N A WO O D S

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W

hen is the best time to pop a bottle of bubbly? Over 50 years ago, Lily Bollinger of the famed Bollinger Champagne house was asked this question. “I only drink Champagne when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it when I’m not hungry and drink it when I am. Otherwise, I never touch it – unless I’m thirsty.”

Sparkling wine is considered Champagne only if it is made in the Champagne region of France. In fact, it is illegal to use this term on bottle labels in many countries. Among the Champagne region’s strict guidelines are the types of grapes used, fermentation method and viticulture practices. Great sparkling wine, however, may be found across the globe.

Although synonymous with celebrations, sparkling wine is one of the most versatile wines in that it can be paired with nearly everything – from simply being enjoyed as an aperitif or accompaniment, to seafood to fried or salty foods. Mike Gibson, general manager of Red or White Wine & Gourmet Center of Mobile, said he loves to pair it with chili.

When selecting sparkling wine, he advises clients to consider their desired level of sweetness, price range and whether they prefer a blanc or rosé. “I try to steer people to rosé. They have the fear that something pink is going to be really sweet.”

Although sweeter wine is available, most sparkling wine is produced as “brut” which limits added sugar (known as dosage) to 12 grams. Lighter bodied sparkling wine usually has a larger percentage of white grapes such as Chardonnay added to the blend. Fuller, richer wines tend to have a greater percentage of black grapes such as Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Some are made from 100% white grapes known as “blanc de blanc” while others are made from 100% black grapes known as “blanc de noirs.” Rosé is created by exposing the wine to dark grape skins for a brief period of time or by adding some red wine to the blend.

The best way to learn about any wine is to taste it. Red or White offers wine flights with antipastos each Saturday from 2 pm to 6 pm at both the Mobile and Fairhope locations. In addition to being a full retail store, Red or White offers a wine bar and dinner menu. Diverse menu options include cheese boards, housemade charcuterie, mushroom ravioli and handmade wood fire pizzas.

Cheers!

mike’s top picks for sparkling wine Graham Beck Rosé Country: South Africa Region: Franschoek Grapes: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay Price: $16.99 Naveran Vintage Cava Country: Spain Region: Penedes Grapes: Xarel-lo, Macabeo, Parellada Price: $16.99 Adami Garbel Prosecco Country: Italy Region: Veneto Grapes: Prosecco Price: $16.99 Scharffenberger Brut Excellence Country: USA Region: California Anderson Valley Grapes: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay Price: $18.99 Jean Francois Merieau “Bulles” Country: France Region: Loire Valley Grapes: Chenin Banc, Chardonnay Price: $20.99 Iron Horse Russian Cuvee Country: USA Region: California Russian River Valley Grapes: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay Price: $35.99 Pol Roger Reserve Country: France Region: Champagne Grapes: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay Price: $52.99

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A TOUR OF

Mobile’s Literary Legacy

BY ELIZABETH RUGAN Mobile’s literary legacy is as rich and complex as its local cuisine. The ranks of the Port City’s talented authors rival the numbers of oaks on our grand streets. It’s a legacy that spans both generations and genres—from French colonial forts to the drawing rooms of our antebellum mansions, from the halls of Barton Academy to the classrooms of the University of South Alabama, from poetry to prose.

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Octavia Le Vert Let’s begin our literary tour of Mobile in the heart of downtown—at the corner of St. Emanuel and Government Streets. Although demolished in the early twentieth century, on this corner once stood the mansion of Mobile’s legendary hostess and renowned travel writer, Octavia Le Vert. Le Vert was born on August 11, 1811, near Augusta, Georgia where she lived until moving with her parents to Mobile in 1835. Here she met Dr. Henry Strachey Le Vert and the two were married in 1836. Le Vert began hosting grand parties at her downtown residence.

Attendees at these parties included the likes of James Buchanan, Joseph Jefferson, Edward Everett, Milliard Filmore, and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. In 1853, Madame Le Vert began an extensive trip to Europe—a journey chronicled in her work Souvenirs of Travel. In this narrative published in 1857, Le Vert recounts her experiences with European high society. During her travels, she was presented to Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in London, joined the guests of Napoleon III in Paris, attended a ball in honor of the Prince of Wales (later Edward VII), and

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toured Florence, Italy as the guest of Robert and Elizabeth Barrett Browning. Her narrative was quite a literary success in that it went through five printings during her lifetime. Madame Le Vert returned to Augusta, Georgia in the years following the Civil War (she scandalized Mobile society with her Northern sympathies) where she died in 1877.

Eugene Walter The next stop on our literary tour of Mobile takes us to the historic Church Street Cemetery, the final resting place of Mobile’s true Renaissance man, Eugene Walter. One of Mobile’s most colorful characters, Walter was a writer, a founding member of The Paris Review, puppeteer, hobby chef, humorist, costume and set designer, and all-around raconteur. Walter was born November 30, 1921, in Mobile—a place he described as “a separate kingdom. We are not North America. We are north Haiti.” Growing up in Mobile, Walter befriended Truman Capote; the two regularly attended matinees at the Saenger Theatre. After serving as a cryptographer in the Army during World War II, Walter moved to New York City where he participated in the thriving artistic community of post-war Greenwich Village. Catching a ride with a transatlantic ship carrying ice cream, Walter traveled to Europe where he lived in both Paris and Rome. During his time on the continent, Walter served as founding member and contributor to The Paris Review, translated and appeared in several Federico Fellini films, and hosted dinner parties where he prepared traditional Southern dishes for guests who included T. S. Eliot, William Faulkner, Judy Garland, Anais Nin, Gore Vidal, and Richard Wright. After his return to Mobile in 1979, Walter continued to contribute to the local literary and artistic scene. Walter died in his native Mobile in 1998 and was buried in the Church Street Cemetery. Although the cemetery was officially closed for burials in 1898, the City of Mobile approved Walter’s burial by special resolution.

A prolific creative, Walter’s novels include Monkey Poems, The Byzantine Riddle, and The Untidy Pilgrim. In addition to his novels, Walter compiled several cookbooks: Delectable Dishes From Termite Hall, Cooking: Southern Style, Hints & Pinches, and the posthumously published The Happy Table of Eugene Walter: Southern Spirits in Food and Drink. Mobile’s Renaissance man is as respected outside of Mobile as he is in his hometown; his many literary awards include an O. Henry citation, a Lippincott award for fiction, and the Prix Guilloux.

Frye Gaillard The next stop on our literary tour takes us west of the interstate to the campus of the University of South Alabama—the stomping grounds of one of Mobile’s contemporary nonfiction authors, Frye Gaillard.

Frye Gaillard was born and raised in Mobile. After completing his degree at Vanderbilt University in 1968, Gaillard began his career as a journalist-a profession he continued until

1990, when he left journalism to become an instructor of nonfiction writing. Gaillard returned home to Mobile in 2005 to serve as the writer-in-residence for the History and English departments at the University of South Alabama. Over his career, he has authored or co-authored over twenty books, including The Dream Long Deferred and Cradle of Freedom: Alabama and the Movement that Changed America.

Winston Groom Our final stop takes us across Mobile Bay to the Eastern Shore and the home of Winston Groom. Groom was raised in Mobile and attended University Military School (now known as UMSWright Preparatory School). After graduating from the University of Alabama, Groom spent four years in the military, including a tour in Vietnam—an experience from which Groom would later draw inspiration for his fiction. In 1985, Groom returned home to Mobile and began work on his most recognized novel, Forest Gump. The novel was adapted to a film in 1994 starring Tom Hanks; the release of the film propelled the book to bestseller status—ultimately selling over 1.7 million copies worldwide.

Groom’s more recent work has shifted to historical nonfiction including discussions of the Civil War, the War of 1812, both World Wars, and University of Alabama football.

Our short tour was unable to address many of Mobile’s great literary talents. If you’re interested in continuing your tour, check out these suggested titles. Mobile may be known as the birthplace of Mardi Gras, but she has also given birth to a great literary tradition, both past and present.

Suggested Booklist • The Untidy Pilgrim—Eugene Walter • The Happy Table of Eugene Walter: Southern Spirits in Food and Drink—Eugene Walter, Donald Goodman, and Thomas Head • Moments with Eugene—Carolyn Haines • The Bad Seed—William March • Company K—William March • South to a Very Old Place—Albert Murray • Train Whistle Guitar—Albert Murray • Sarah Booth Delaney Mississippi Delta Series— Carolyn Haines • Penumbra—Carolyn Haines • Forrest Gump—Winston Groom • Gone the Sun—Winston Groom folio spring 2017

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Travel Through Time on the Dora Franklin Finley African-American Heritage Trail By: Kasee Heisterhagen

Mobile is the home to a cultural treasure known as the Dora Franklin Finley AfricanAmerican Heritage Trail (DFFAAHT) which outlines Mobile’s diverse history by linking historic contributions and events with significant locations.

The DFFAAHT is named for Dora Alice Franklin Finley (1952-2012), a Mobileborn educator, mother, banker and logistics whiz. After retiring from Scott Paper Company / Kimberly Clark after 25 years in Managerial Logistics, Ms. Finley focused on working with church and community organizations to protect and promote local African-American history.

Some of the stops on the DFFAAHT predate the founding of America to when explorers first landed on the Gulf Coast. In more recent history, other stops on the DFFAAHT feature the Civil Rights movement, local legends, and exemplary entrepreneurs.

According to Karlos Finley, President of the DFFAAHT: “You will travel through time more than 300 years back in history and then be brought into the modern age of today’s diverse community. You will learn the struggles, challenges and triumphs of Mobile’s African-American culture. Our history is unique and truly one of a kind.”

In addition to educating the public, the DFFAAHT seeks to share the stories of the early Creoles de Color, African survivors from the Clotilda—the last slave ship to enter the US in 1860, newly freed blacks who worshipped and built some of the oldest churches in Alabama, African-Americans who settled in an area named ironically for Jefferson Davis—Davis Avenue, and later renamed Dr. Martin Luther King Ave., and the Civil Rights advocates integral to the desegregation of the city’s schools, workforce, and public offices.

The DFFAAHT features notable locations including: Hank Aaron’s Playground and Park Africatown A. N. Johnson Publishing Basilica of the Immaculate Conception Bettie Hunter House Big Zion A.M.E Church Broad Street Academy/Caldwell School C. First Johnson House Campground Neighborhood Central/Dunbar High School Christian Benevolent Funeral Home Church of the Good Shepherd W. H. Council School Cook’s House, Oakleigh Vernon Z. Crawford Law Firm Creole Firehouse #l Emanuel A.M.E. Church Emerson Institute Chain of Finley’s Drug Stores Fort Conde’ James Reese Europe Home Site

Dr. James A. Franklin House Dr. Thomas Nathaniel Harris House John LeFlore’s Office Johnson and Allen Mortuary Michael Donald Avenue Mobile County Training School Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church National African-American Heritage Archives and Museum Dave Patton House Leroy “Satchel” Paige Home Site Africatown/Plateau Graveyard Saint Martin de Porres Hospital Slave Market St. Louis Street Missionary Baptist Church State Street A.M.E. Zion Church Stone Street Baptist Church Wallace Turnage Union Baptist Church Unity Point Dr. H. Roger Williams Drug Store folio spring 2017

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There are several types of DFFAAHT tours available to suit your schedule: 1) Step on Bus Tours: Groups may charter a private tour. A docent will board your bus and narrate the tour with a map for your driver. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and children 17 and younger. Book today by calling 251-725-2236 or visit www.dffaaht.org.

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2) Self-driving Tours: Detailed maps and narration are accessible from the DFFAAHT website free of charge at www.dffaaht.org.

3) School Bus Tours: Bus Tours are available for 4th-12th grade classes. For booking instructions go to www.dffaaht.org.

4)

Downtown Walking Tours: Meet in Cathedral Square at the corner of Claiborne and Dauphin Streets on the third Wednesday of each month at noon. Walking Tour is automatically canceled by rain. Reservations required, 251-725-2236. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and children under 17.

You can also follow the DFFAAHT on Facebook, Instagram (#dffaaht), and Twitter (@dffaaht1).

Enjoy your trip through history and reflect on the important contributions of Mobile’s African-American community throughout time. As Ms. Finley would say, “you can’t know where you’re going, if you don’t know where you’ve been.”

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Calendar of Events If you have a community event that you would like to include, email headquarters@juniorleaguemobile.org.

March Jubilee Bargains March 23-26, at the intersection of Airport Blvd. and Azalea Rd., next to Party City (formerly Goodwill). Enjoy multiple days of JLM’s annual pop-up rummage sale, featuring slightly used, but completely amazing items as well as new-with-tags items donated by local merchants.

Visit www.juniorleaguemobile.org for more information or to purchase tickets.

40th Anniversary Azalea Trail Run March 25, Downtown Mobile. With a 10k, 5k and 2k run, the 40th annual ATR offers something for everyone.

Visit www.pcpacers.org/atr for more information.

Azalea Bloom Out March 4-31. Enjoy the blooms of more than 250,000 vibrant azaleas through the 65 acres of Bellingrath Gardens. For precise times of the azalea blooms, check Azalea Watch at www.bellingrath.org.

Brown Bag in Bienville Square Wednesdays, April 5-May 24. Come out and listen to soothing jazz as you enjoy lunch in downtown Mobile around the historic Ketchum Fountain. Stop in at your favorite Bienville Square eateries and ask for the Brown Bag Special and don’t forget to recycle in one of Keep Mobile Beautiful’s bins!

12th Annual Serve It Up With Love Tennis Tournament April 14-16 at Copeland-Cox Tennis Center in Mobile. This popular tournament, which was recently named Charity Event of the Year by USTA Alabama, benefits the Mobile Child Advocacy Center. To register or learn more, visit serveitupwithlove.com.

Mullet Man Triathlon April 22, Flora-Bama. This high quality race promises a great course, super volunteers, awards three deep and overall, as well as a post-race party with food and fun. Visit www. florabama.com/events for more information.

24th Annual Camellia Classic Open Car Show April 1, Bellingrath Gardens. Stroll through hundreds of classic and vintage automobile. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Mobile Bay Area Food Bank. Go to www. bellingrath.org for more information.

Market on the Square Saturdays, April through July 30, 7:30 a.m.-noon. Shop for the freshest crops in Cathedral Square and stay for live music on the green. For more information, call 251-208-1550.

April

May Blessing of the Fleet April 30-May 1, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., Bayou La Batre.

Participate in a new-world version of an old tradition. Featuring seafood, raffles, live music and a boat parade.

Visit www.fleetblessing.org for more information.

Cocktails with the Critters May 4, 6:00-9:00 pm, Bluegill Restaurant. This exciting evening overlooking Mobile Bay features live music, a silent auction, delicious food, wine and beer with all proceeds benefitting the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation.

Visit www.sealabfoundation.org for more information.

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13th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival May 4-7, Foley, Alabama. Pilots from across the U.S. will participate in this festival which includes balloon glows, the World Famous Disc Connected K-9’s Frisbee Dog Show, carnival rides, arts and crafts and a crawfish boil. Admission is free. Visit www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com for more information.

Hangout Music Festival May 19-21. Located directly on the white, sandy beaches of Gulf Shores, this festival treats guests to a unique experience and features a diverse selection of top touring artists on multiple stages. www.hangoutmusicfest.com for tickets and info.

Baldwin County Home Builders Association Spring Tour of Homes April 22-23. Tour dozens of new homes in various neighborhoods throughout Baldwin County for inspiration or for purchase! Visit www.bchba.com for more information.

A LIFESTYLE GALLERY OF ART, ANTIQUES AND GIFTS 19130 Scenic Highway 98 • Fairhope, Alabama • 251.929.1630 • Tuesday–Saturday 10–5

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SETTING THE EXAMPLE IN TEAMWORK.

UMS-Wright PreParatory School UMS-Wright.org

251.479.6551