Have you ever wondered, “Do dads matter? What differences do I make in my home as a dad?” Let’s start with the simple answer — the importance of a dad is tremendous! Dads make countless differences in their homes and family. However, how much impact you decide to make as a dad is entirely up to you!
My favorite memory is fishing offshore with my dad. In fact, even in undergrad, I would trade a college party to fish with him. We would listen to classic country and classic rock together as we cruised out to one of his many spots. Sometimes my dad would change the lyrics up just to get a laugh out of me. He made me feel so important as his first mate, allowing me to take on more and more responsibility on his boat. Teaching me dead navigation, GPS, and allowing me to operate the Lowrance fish finder. He probably doesn’t realize how much self-esteem he gifted me by spending quality time with me, I truly hit the jackpot in the dad lottery. Thank you, daddy, for all the time you spent with me. You are the most positive male role model a girl could ask for.
A dad's gifts of quality time, life-giving words, and positive actions have a long-lasting impact on his children. As I reflect on fatherhood this month, here are just a few of the ways dads can build up their homes:
• A dad’s strength can be powerful
• A dad’s words can be fueling and inspirational
• Hugs from a dad can be deeply comforting
• A dad’s smile can instill joy and confidence
• Time with a dad can be fun and productive
• A dad’s guidance can be life-changing and foundational
• A dad's correction can be life-saving and life-giving
• Adventures with a dad can be exciting and memorable
Let your dad or a father figure in your life know how much he matters to you. And if you are a dad, let us be the first to say - thank you. You are invaluable to the people who know and need you as well as the community around you.
Happy Father’s Day!
Thank you for inviting us into your home and lives, we can’t wait to see you around town.
Love local, live local, and spend locally, Until next month…..
ASHLEY ROBERTS, PUBLISHER
@GULF_COAST_CITYLIFESTYLE
June 2023
PUBLISHER
Ashley Roberts | ashley.roberts@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Lillian Taylor | lillian.taylor@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Pine Watch Media, Ashley Roberts, Madalyn Stewart Photography
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
Want to be seen in the magazine?
Tag your Instagram photos with @Gulf_Coast_CityLifestyle
Momentum Marine has a new location to better serve our coastal community. The new Gulf Shores address is 3041 West 1st Street. Momentum offers boat sales, boat service, and their customized concierge service. Their concierge service includes complimentary pick-up and delivery, with numerous options offered from repairs to upgrades. From launching, fueling, or icing...Momentum does it all. Don't forget Momentum not only sells boats but has the largest selection of marine audio and lighting. 251.943.0330
Beach Girl At Home is a unique, coastal-inspired home décor boutique in Gulf Shores, created with passion for the Beach Girl in everyone! They have curated a collection of the Island’s most colorful and distinctive home accessories, furniture, artwork, lighting, tableware, area rugs – everything for the home! They specialize in holiday decorating, tablescapes, staging/ revitalizing your current décor, showcasing local artists, and unique gifts. They ship, offer free delivery, and their BGAH signature gift-wrapping.
Discover the perfect artwork for your space and design at Pink Pelican Art Gallery. The newly renovated gallery located at 24823 Canal Road showcases a variety of mediums from 22 Artists. With offerings, large and small and curated for the coastal community, visitors are sure to enjoy browsing while sipping Prosecco or flavored coffees. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for their latest installations. Gallery hours: Tuesday through Saturday from 11am – 4pm.
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect:
CityLifestyle.com/GulfCoast
Cary Thigpen has been an avid car collector for the last 14 years. He was gracious enough to share with us (and you) his personal and unique collection of cars on the coast for this month’s edition.
His personal collection is housed at “De Barn,” and features 22 cars in total.
For 25 years Cary Thigpen owned and operated a hardware store in Mobile while his wife was a school teacher. After a successful transition into the wood treatment business, he chose to retire and pursue a passion he’d had for many years. The oldest of his collection is a 1911 Buick. The latest in his collection is a 2008 Lamborghini.
“I used to enjoy and do a lot of offshore deep-sea fishing. When I started collecting cars, I stopped doing so much of that.” When asked if he has plans to add additional cars to his collection he says “Yes, but don’t tell my wife. I joke with people that at my funeral on the bottom of the pamphlet that says thank you for coming,” It will say “over” on the bottom. When you flip it over it will say head to “De Barn” after services for a car auction.”
One thing is for certain, Cary Thigpen has not only a wonderful collection of classic and luxurious cars but also a healthy sense of humor. We at GCCL appreciate his generosity in sharing these beautiful and rare finds.
Alan Ryals is creating relationships and helping others with Wealth Management & Financial planning. Catching up with Alan we asked:
“I’d always vacationed here. In 2018 my wife and I decided to move down here and live where we loved to be.”
“The people. Everyone here is so nice and helpful. The quality of people that you meet here are unlike any that we’ve met anywhere else. Everywhere you go, you’re going to meet someone with a smiling face and people here have a generosity about them. Of course, we also love the social aspect of getting out and exploring what’s going on locally. We really enjoy The Gulf and deep sea fishing. There’s so much to do and see.”
“I work with those in the community to help with Wealth Management & Financial Planning. We’ll work together to identify your needs, wants, dreams, and concerns too. I’ll analyze items like your financial statements, tax returns, cash flow and budget. From there we will create a plan of action that I will coach you through. Once your financial goals are identified, we’ll build a customized investment portfolio to meet them. Leveraging RFG’s state-of-the-art portfolio stress testing and risk assessment tools we ensure that your questions are answered, and needs are met. We’ll meet regularly to review your progress and adjust for any curve balls life may throw at you. There is always coordinated communication. Similar to how sports teammates need to know what play has been called, all members of your team need to know your plan too. I will work with applicable members of your team - the CPAs, Attorneys, Lenders - to make sure we’re working together on your behalf.”
Executive Vice President, Wealth ManagementRFG Advisory
Alan has over 30 years in the industry and strives to help educate others with Financial Planning & Wealth Management. He and his family live in the Orange Beach area and enjoy a wide array of activities and social causes. Alan says that “Financial education is so very important. If there were two books I’d recommend they’d be: The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham and Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. Rich Dad Poor Dad should be required reading in every high school in America.”
To connect with Alan visit or call / email: rfgadvisorywealth.com/alanryals
Ph: (205) 253 - 1910
Email: aryals@rfgadvisory.com
Tina has been a practicing Physical Therapist for 28 years. She has provided care with Encore Rehabilitation for 18 years both as a Physical Therapist and Clinic Director. Throughout her career, she has worked with a large range of diagnoses and patients of all ages. She is McKenzie-trained as well as Certified in Dry Needling.
Tina resides in Orange Beach with her family. She loves camping, hiking and traveling.
Collin Travis isn’t your typical realtor. At the age of 26 and veteran of the United States Navy specializing in search & rescue as a rescue swimmer; Collin knew that he wanted to make Orange Beach his home after vacationing here throughout his life. He joined forces with the Keller Williams Alabama Gulf Coast Team in Orange Beach and is now dedicated to helping others find their own dream home or condo in the area.
“I grew up vacationing here and I knew that I wanted to make this place home. There is so much to do outside. I love being able to go to the gun range, slip down to the beach, or golf. When I decided to join the Keller Williams team I really liked the aspect of having the freedom to help people. Educating clients on how to get the most out of their money through investment opportunities, 1031 exchanges and real-estate investments. It also feels good to know that I’m creating friendships and relationships with others. I love working with veterans and seeing them succeed. In the future, I hope to grow my network and develop my own team. It would be wonderful to build a niche’ in which I can help those who have served our country and their families to buy or build locally.”
collintravis.com
Ph: (270) 564 - 7009
Email: collin@collintravis.com
At enrG Wellness, we provide quality alternative medicine to improve your daily life. We have therapies that help with auto-immune disorders, cancer, inflammatory issues, chronic fatigue, dehydration, athletic performance, collagen production, immune support, cognitive function (brain-fog) liver function (detox) oxidative stress, insomnia, chronic pain, weight loss, metabolism, ADHD, anxiety and depression, addiction and more.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Matthew Evenhouse, MD
Anti-Aging & Performance Medicine Specialist
INTRODUCING Rachel Gilmore, DC
This month’s edition highlights professional gentlemen in our area who are men of positive influence and creating connections within the community.
Cory Skipper followed his passion into the real estate industry after a decade long corporate career. Founder of Gulf Group EXP Realty, a residential real estate sales business located in Orange Beach, AL. Skipper is using his experiences and education as he strives to help his clients achieve their real estate goals along the Alabama Gulf Coast.
His drive and development started at an early age when he joined the Boy Scouts of America. Skipper, achieved the rank of Eagle Scout at age 16. Skipper and his family relocated to the island in 2022. “I remember coming here as a kid. My wife, Janine, and I knew the island would be a great place to raise our children. We both grew up in Clarke County and were ready to get back to a tight-knit community. We thought we knew what to expect, but what we’ve found has been far better than anticipated. I appreciate the welcoming community and our new friends. Plus, it’s great to have family close by.
Skipper Founder of Gulf Group EXP Realty, LLCTony Hannah can give you his first hand experience of following directions from God. Hannah says “I experienced some things in my life that really led me back to being obedient to God after I’d fallen away from listening. When I made the decision to trust him and do what I felt I was being called to do, my life changed. Because of that obedience, my life has flourished. I met my wife and have a family, and my business is thriving.” Hannah is the owner of KleenWorks detailing. Servicing Auto Detailing, Ceramic Coatings, and Auto RV Marine. Hannah says “Anyone can open up a detail shop but knowing what you’re cleaning and how you’re supposed to clean it is crucial. My clients come to me because I deliver a level of excellence. I know what chemicals to use and how to properly apply them.” Hannah serves the community in more ways than just through detailing. Each year he and others in the community team up for the Toys For Tots toy drive. He also partnered with the community to provide hurricane relief efforts for those affected by the storms in recent years. “It’s amazing what can happen when we partner together for the betterment of others. That’s one thing that I love about living here. Everyone is helpful, everyone is giving.” Hannah also facilitates SPARK, a mentorship and coaching group designed to ignite the fire of the Holy Spirit aiding business owners in building a thriving business off of biblical values. Hannah continues to pursue excellence in serving others throughout the community. For more information contact: KleenWorks
Ph: (251) 333 - 8700 kleenwork.com
“Anyone can open up a detail shop but knowing what you’re cleaning and how you’re supposed to clean it is crucial. My clients come to me because I deliver a level of excellence. I know what chemicals to use and how to properly apply them.”
Tony Hannah KleenWorks
Riaan du Plessis, a South African Native encountered a life changing experience in 2008 when he met his wife on a cruise. “I met this amazing woman and moved to America that ultimately brought us here.” At a crossroads in his life, du Plessis knew that he wanted to own his own business and after reading and researching, Home Inspection fell into his lap. “I love what I do and there is such a growing demand for it here in the area. Whether it’s new construction, commercial, a pre-listing, or manufactured home, etc, we at Home Boss Inspection provide the service to have it professionally and accurately done.” du Plessis says “the weather here in combination with the water and people make this area home. I love the small-town feel and way of life. My wife and I also enjoy going to the mountains in Mentone, AL. We try and visit northern Alabama a few times per year.” du Plessis says with the housing market boom the demand for home inspections are on the rise. Home Inspection isn’t the only thing that du Plessis is passionate about. In keeping true to his roots, du Plessis is an advocate for rhino conservation in South Africa. “80% of the world’s population of wild rhino are in South Africa but our rhinos are being hunted for their tusks. Conservation of our wildlife and lands is my biggest passion. The rhino orphanage is in my hometown. It’s hard to explain but being with these animals really puts you in the moment and is the single most thrilling experience of my life.” For more information contact:
Home Boss Inspection
Ph: (251) 230 - 9595 homebossinspection.com
The Rhino Orphanage therhinoorphanage.com
“I love what I do and there is such a growing demand for it here in the area. Whether it’s new construction, commercial, a pre-listing, or manufactured home, etc, we at Home Boss Inspection provide the service to have it professionally and accurately done.”
Riaan du Plessis
Tim Harry of Severance Security is “hanging out with heroes” these days. A servant to others and paving the way by job carving and creating positions for Veterans and Law Enforcement, Harry loves his profession.
In 2000 after coming to the area to help a friend with a job, he decided to never leave. He spent many summers vacationing here with family throughout the years. Harry says that he loves the small-town feel of the beach which also has big-town attributes. “There is always so much to do, and people are just happier here.”- Harry.
Harry employs veterans and law enforcement in a service capacity. “They have the heart to protect. I find that the security service and details that are assigned give these heroes a purpose.
Baldwin County is a high trafficking area and not only are we working to protect and serve but Harry also is on the board of a global firm The Children’s Rescue Initiative, which is a nonprofit that saves kids from labor and sex slavery all over the world. After the rescue, they provide relocation for the children, as well as medical treatment and schooling. These men and women are working around the clock to save lives and continuously protect with a servant’s heart.”
For more information contact Tim Harry: severancesecurity.us Ph: (251) 333-0308 Email: info@severancesecurity.us
“I love what I do, I get to hang out with heroes all day.”
—Tim Harry
WIND & WATER LEARNING CENTER | 5:30 PM
On this 2.5-hour excursion, participants will learn multiple paddle strokes, making them more efficient kayakers. Participants will also have the opportunity to practice basic watercolor techniques while creating their own works of art as they float in back-bay waters. "Unplug," take in a scenic sunset, and enjoy a peaceful paddle in Wolf Bay. For questions and more information, call 251-981-1063
THE WHARF AMPHITHEATER
June 2nd: Koe Wetzel, 7pm
June 15th: James Taylor & His All Star Band, aka JT, 7:30pm
June 24th: Walker Hayes with Ray Fulcher & Ingrid Andress, 6:30PM
GULF SHORES PUBLIC BEACH | 4:00 PM
Come out and help us kick off our 2023 Beach Basketball® tour! Beach Basketball® is the most exciting and fastest-paced game you will ever see played on the sand, and it was created right here in the Gulf Coast! Please visit our website to register and learn more about our game. Follow the Wave!! For more information visit: beachbasketball.com
OLE RIVER GRILL
Thirty categories will range from Catfish to Billfish, including a Spearfishing category and everything in between. Heck, they will probably see who can catch the biggest crab before it's all said and done. Bring all the family and friends for a fun-packed weekend. With that said, we can promise you one thing - they will be giving away top-of-the-line prizes!
DAPHNE CIVIC CENTER | 6:00 PM
This event invites you to “mask out” cancer for one night by celebrating local cancer survivors and those still fighting. Last year’s event saw a tremendous increase in participation, raising nearly $40,000. These proceeds benefitted local cancer patients along the Gulf Coast. This year’s summer event will boast great music, food, drink, and a silent auction and always-entertaining live auction.
LUCY BUFFETT'S LULU'S | 8:00 AM
Hot Trot for ARC 5K Run/Walk is a fundraising event conducted by the Robertsdale Rotary Club. The event will be held Saturday, June 17, at 8 a.m. Packet pick-up will take place Friday afternoon from 3-6 p.m. All net proceeds will be donated to the ARC of Baldwin County. The course is flat, quick and certified!
Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/GulfCoast
JD Swiger is our Cover Model for the Gentleman’s issue. Swiger is an up-and-coming mixed media artist best known for turning trash into treasure from local beaches along the Gulf Coast. Showcasing his art in a variety of venues, Swiger’s work can be seen locally at Coastal Arts Center of OB, Hog Wild Beach BBQ, Printing Zone, Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church, The Royal Oyster, Sea Paws Dog Resort, Island Vape Company, Souvenir City, & Swiger Studio Art Gallery. Swiger Studio is located at 1538 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Unit 6, Gulf Shores.
JD Swiger: 251.609.1162 / swigerstudio@gmail.com
