Social Coastal | August 2023

SOCIAL COASTAL

ALABAMA SEAFOOD COOK-OFF | BLUE MARLIN GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP | FLORA-BAMA FREEDOM RUN

FROM THE EDITOR

Welcome to the latest edition of Social Coastal Magazine, your go-to source for all things happening along our stunning Gulf Coast of Alabama and NW Florida.

In this issue, we highlight the exhilarating world of Fishing Tournaments. These thrilling images of record-breaking catches from seasoned fishers will surely ignite your passion for this beloved sport.

But that’s not all - we have curated a yacht feature for this issue. Step on board the stunning vessel “At Ease” and prepare to be mesmerized as we take you on a journey of nautical elegance.

Social Coastal Magazine is more than just a publication; it is a celebration of everything that makes our Gulf Coast so special.

Team Social is thrilled to present you with an array of captivating features, editorials, and exciting events that showcase the best of coastal living and those individuals making a difference within our communities.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together. Sit back, relax, and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Social Coastal Magazine.

EVA KEESEE Editor In Chief

VOLUME 1 · ISSUE 2

PUBLISHER

David Renfro

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Eva Keesee

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Melinda McGhee

STAFF WRITER

Liesel Schmidt

COPY EDITOR

Lana Cagle

SOCIAL MEDIA & WEB DESIGN

Jen Meadows

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Lead Designer Brad Growden

Kim Mesman & Chris Shenk

PHOTOGRAPHY

Ruili Cai

Andrew Crumpton  Shelley Patterson, C-Shelz Photography  Jenni Guerry Photography

Yacht photos by Summer Davis Photography

Wedding by Brandi Anderson Photography

SALES

Eva Keesee l 251.979.4278

Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429

Amalie Murphy | 850.293.9022

David Renfro | 731.499.1414

SOCIAL COASTAL MAGAZINE

www.socialcoastalmagazine.com

Stay Connected:

FLIP. CLICK. TAP.

THE BEST OF THE COAST AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

We’ve all been there: watching the movements of city government, frustrated by their progress in making real change in areas that hit close to home. But while most of us never make it further than the voting booths to effect change, Tony Kennon decided to run for office.

“I was mad at City Hall and frustrated by the lack of transparency and mostly a lack of customer service,” says Kennon, whose concern for the city led him to serve on the city council in 2004 as well as ongoing service on the Orange Beach Planning Commission since 1998. “I knew Orange Beach could do better, and my goal was to create change from inside the organization. Being nice to people costs nothing.”

It was that kind of thinking that resulted in Kennon’s election to mayor of Orange Beach in 2008, and to his subsequent re-election each term since then. Now, Kennon is in his fourth term serving as mayor of the community that he loves so deeply—not that it’s been a bump-free road getting to this particular point. “Going in, I thought I was going to run government like a business when I got elected,” admits Kennon, who worked as a physical therapist

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

LEADING The CHARGE Creating the CHANGE &

previous to his election. “Once I was in office, I realized the challenges of turning the ship. So many agencies and outside influences control much of what local government tries to do. The growth in popularity of our city as a top beach destination was also a big challenge, as growth brings an increase in traffic and a need for change in infrastructure. We have spent countless hours working to solve traffic conflict points and move traffic more efficiently. It's flowing so much better these days, but we are always looking down the road, literally. Managing growth is difficult, and there is a fine line between maintaining community and building a top tourist destination.”

Meeting those challenges and serving his community the way he has, Kennon has proven to his constituents their decision to elect him to be a wise one. “I would say that I was elected—and re-elected—because people know my track record and trust me. I am blunt and frank at times, but honest. I always take any question and do my best to give an immediate answer or response, whether that person likes it or not. I offer time for questions at all meetings, including close to 50 Town Halls with open mic time. If you are open and honest, people typically begin to understand the ‘why’ behind every issue, which always has its share of challenges in a town like ours. We have reasons in everything we do, and we are willing to share those reasons with the community.”

Since taking oath in 2009, Kennon has had a hand in forming a school system for the city of Orange Beach. “Watching Orange Beach Middle and High schools open is by far my proudest moment,” he says. “I know the City of Orange Beach can provide a first-class public school education accepting nothing less than excellence. The future of our community is these students.”

Another point of pride is the partnership and purchase of Orange Beach’s first “city beach” with CoastAL restaurant. During his time in office, Kennon has also paid down and managed city debt; invested in quality facilities,

programs and people; expanded health care and public safety departments; retained and grown the city’s employee base; improved transportation challenges; protected residential neighborhoods and their integrity through zoning regulations. “I could do nothing without our council, department heads, and employees,” he says.

As he continues to serve, Kennon’s goals for the future also continue. “We paid off all of the city's debts, which allowed us to go and borrow at very low rates the funds necessary to form our own school system and continue building the facilities our citizens need, such as fire stations, medical facilities, recreation opportunities, sidewalks/pathways and renovating existing buildings,” he says. “We were also focused on quality customer service and our staff has done a wonderful job when it comes to responsiveness and information.

“Lastly, building the ‘family friendly brand’ was always and continues to be our goal,” continues Kennon, who has raised two children in the city with his wife. “We will not give in to events, concepts, or businesses that don't fit that family friendly brand. It's who we are, and it's who we plan to be in the future. We are a ‘sanctuary city’ for families and traditional values.”

ONE MISSION IN MIND... TO PROTECT

Our executive defense team consists of retired Military and Law enforcement agents, as well as trade-craft specialist. Security to fit any situation.

Kick Off

Sponsors and participants were invited to attend a private Championship Kick-Off Party at Orange Beach Event Center. Presented by Hancock Whitney Bank, the event featured the presentation of the 2023 Gulf Legends Award, live music, great food, beverages, and a silent auction to benefit St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Bill Black and Jason Clabo

Alexis Oyler and Michael Bressler

Myles Colley and Robert Burroughs

Amber Marchant and Ariana Shaughnessy

Amanda, Ben Bryce, Ben, and Evelyn Martino

Stephen David, Jennifer Aniston, and Ryan Ground

Scott Burt, David Finkelstein, and Jordan Finkelstein

Caroline and Mariah Galati

Haley Jones and Mattie Teel

Nick and Alli Galati

Melissa Lafreniere, Craig Martin, Tim Jones, Scott Burt, and Art Farve

Karsten Hicks, Jake Graham, Jessica King, and Mack Franklin

Sophia, Mary, and Emma Galati

Linda Hogoboom, Faith Davis, and Tara Hogoboom

Seth and Shana Mosley

BLUE MARLIN GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP

PHOTOS BY JENNI GUERRY PHOTOGRAPHY

“A Work of Art” reeled in a magnificent 597.4lb Blue Marlin and emerged victorious at the 2023 Blue Marlin Grand Championship, held at the Wharf in Orange Beach. The annual Blue Marlin Grand Championship, often referred to as “the greatest show in sportfishing,” draws competitors from around the globe. Once the fishing concluded at the Blue Marlin Grand Championship, all marlin caught were donated to Cooper Farm in Foley where volunteers processed the fish to provide fish meat to Baldwin County families in need.

A Life

at Ease

Whether it’s a sprawling suburban mansion or a cramped city apartment, home is where we find comfort, a place we sleep and eat and go about our daily ministrations. It gives us refuge and a resting place and feels welcoming to our soul. To quote commonly used idioms, Home is where the heart is, the place we hang our hats—figuratively or otherwise. In the case of parttime Orange Beach residents Larry Sloan and Kim Gordon, those hats are sometimes splashed with salt water and the airborne remnants of fish guts, and that resting place isn’t always so restful—especially when the waters are choppy.

Story: Liesel Schmidt // Photos: Summer Davis Photography

CAPTAIN BILL

Granted, the 76-ft Lazzara motor yacht named At Ease is hardly the couple’s actual home. But with the amount of time the sea loving south Alabamians spend aboard this luxurious vessel, At Ease could well be considered one of their homes away from home.

Complete with quartz countertops, sleek custom white cabinetry, warm teak flooring and almost every kitchen appliance one could think of, the galley overlooking the comfortably appointed salon is hardly sparse, boasting features that one would expect only in traditional homes. It’s amazing to contemplate the capabilities of this cooking space, to consider the fact that what’s on the menu might have been caught mere hours before, reeled in from the railings of the decks that gleam under the sunlight right outside the door.

Just to the side of all that galley glory is more formal dining in a beautifully designed space, a scant few steps away from the sumptuous seating of the main salon. This open concept area is truly something to behold, offering breathtaking views from its many windows that people willingly pay millions to behold from their land-bound abodes. The room is replete, offering everything imaginable to make time spent cooped up indoors anything but a drudgery, fully equipped with an entertainment system. It’s an area perfect for entertaining, for hosting candlelit dinner parties or raucous game day gatherings—and the perfect expression of Southern hospitality. “We have shared a lot of great times creating memories with friends and family on this boat,” says Sloan, who splits time between the homes that he and Brown own in Orange Beach and Naples, Florida.

With all the traveling they’ve done in At Ease since purchasing the 1997 model Lazarra in 2007, the couple would want a proper place to sleep and relax during their time aboard. They’ve taken their impressive machine to Naples as well as up the river, with upcoming plans for taking a trip all the way to the Ohio River and back down to New Orleans before coming back to Orange Beach; and when the day is done, they hardly crawl into the cramped confines of a standard fishing boat. “It’s such a comfortable place,” Gordon says. With such top-of-the-line amenities all throughout, comfort level could easily be sacrificed for fear of blemish, swapped out for the untouchable impressiveness of so much luxury; but space both inside and out needs to be sizeable, and comfort is a priority.

With that in mind, the quarters offer comfortable accommodations for the couple as well as their guests, boasting space, coziness, and

class that could rival and even top that found in some luxury cruise ship cabins. Each of the sleeping areas––master, two VIP staterooms, and two crew cabins—have full ensuite bathrooms with granite countertops and enclosed showers. Whether drifting off to dreamland or waking to the seagull’s call, the rooms are inviting and restful.

The sparse living of a fisherman holds no water here, but neither does fussiness—an undeniable necessity in such a place where clothes streaked in brine and blood share equal play with freshly pressed designer label linen.

As the couple enjoy life “at ease,” the boat offers them respite from the stresses of everyday life, even as it bears a gentle reminder that the journey is far from over and that reeling it in isn’t always as simple as it looks.

SOCIAL

Photos by Jenni Guerry Photography

FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED

As the premier choice for beachfront getaways, we take pride in providing exceptional service and creating an experience that goes beyond your expectations.

When you rent with Sugar Sands Realty, you become part of our family

Photos by Jenni Guerry Photography

ON THE COAST

ALL THINGS BOATS

Photos by Jenni Guerry Photography

Locally owned and operated and from humble beginnings as a small sushi and martini bar, The Jellyfish has grown into one of Pensacola’s premier restaurants.

“Anything worth doing is worth doing well. We wanted the best sushi, the best steaks, the best oyster bar in Perdido and the best seafood, period. We weren’t satisfied with a few signature items on our menus, we wanted a signature restaurant.

We know that both locals and our much-appreciated visitors just want a great pizza with fresh toppings, perfectly prepared sauce and handmade pizza dough. That is exactly what we offer at both Lillian’s Pizza and Paul’s Pizza Company. Both stores also offer a wide variety of pasta dishes and sandwiches as well.

We are very proud of all three of our locations.”

-Owner, Bryan Minchew

KEYGULLS

Since its formation in 2021, Lost Key Krewe has been one of those krewes with a cause, setting its focus on improving the lives of people in the local community through the work that they do. In fact, the krewe is operated by a nonprofit called KeyGulls Corporation, whose business structure is designed as an umbrella to support multiple income-producing programs that fund their very own charitable projects and programs in a mutually beneficial relationship. Currently, KeyGulls has two programs, the Perdido Key Witches & Werewolves Halloween Paddle Ride and The Lost Key Krewe.

Driven by their strong vision to unite people through enjoyable activities and contribute to the greater good, founder, Cheri Bone, along with a group of ladies in the Perdido Key area, formed the KeyGulls. From there, it became a network of people, both ladies and gentlemen, committed to giving back to the local community while having fun representing it.

As part of Mardi Gras culture, krewes are, by and large, associated with the parades and all that they entail. But fanfare and showy floats aside, their reasons for being—and the causes they support— make them about more than just chasing the fun.

Photos by: Andy Harp Photography, Alley Kat Photography & Sean Vincent Photography

“The KeyGulls Corp. mission is to serve Perdido Key through events, fundraisers, and volunteer work and to better the community through our own charitable projects and programs,” says Bone. “We also partner with other organizations to accomplish this mission. Both the Lost Key Krewe and the PK Witches & Werewolves Halloween Paddle Ride fund our charitable program, Perdido KeyGulls Giving Back.”

Less than two years after its creation, the KeyGulls Corporation— and by extension, the Lost Key Krewe—have grown in membership and created a number of events bringing the community together, including hosting major community celebrations such as the Pensacola Mardi Gras, Christmas, and Fiesta Parades, as well as a family-friendly recreational Halloween event. They have also sponsored local events such as the Sandy Roots Songwriter Series Concert and The Perdido Key Music Festival. They also partnered with Feeding the Gulf Coast to become a Mobile Pantry Agency and collaborated with Keep Pensacola Beautiful to Adopt-A-Spot at a local park for litter collection in addition to starting their own “Lost Key Klean-Up” initiative.

“The KeyGulls Corp. mission is to serve Perdido Key through events, fundraisers, and volunteer work and to better the community through our own charitable projects and programs.”

2023 Lost Key Krewe Board of Directors (Left to Right)—Event Development - Andy Harp, Treasurer-Judy Bone, Member Relations-Wayne Chardon Sr., Vice President-Taylor Keithahn, President-Cheri Bone and Float Operations-Doug Mandel

“As a Feeding the Gulf Coast Mobile Food Pantry Agency, we distributed a total of more than 12,000 pounds of food to our Innerarity Point neighborhood with the help from the arms and hands of our Krewe & Witches to help sort the boxes of food,” Bone says proudly. “We have served 677 people in total. Our krewe also aims to make a difference in our community by launching a Giving Back Program called Recession Relief, which will provide rental assistance to our neighbors who need it due to the price of inflation and being working-class while living in a tourist destination.”

Clearly, the members of the Lost Key Krewe are determined to leave their mark on the community. As they increase their numbers and their reach, Bone believes the KeyGulls’ vision will make the krewe an effective force for change. “People join krewes like ours because they believe in the vision and crave friendship, fun, new experiences, charity, and an opportunity to be part of something bigger than themselves,” she says. “This takes literally a village to accomplish, and we can find a role for everyone who is willing to help. We have created a network that has become almost like a family. It takes all of us to get the work accomplished, and we're just that eclectic that tries our best—even when we encounter obstacles. We do what we can to make a difference and give back.”

For more information, visit

FLORA-BAMA’S 3RD ANNUAL FREEDOM RUN

From ribbons and bows, to flags and t-shirts, participants pulled out all the stops with their best red, white and blue attire, making this run scream AMERICA! This patriotic run featured a 4 Mile Run/Walk Course and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk! All fun run participants received a finisher medal once they crossed the finish line. A portion of the proceeds from this race will benefit AHERO Foundation. AHERO (America’s Heroes Enjoying Recreation Outdoors) connects Veterans with patriotic members of local communities by organizing outdoor events and social activities. Their goal is to heal the physical and psychological wounds of war and military service.

Photos by Shelley Patterson

INDEPENDENCE DAY PARTY AND OPEN HOUSE

Fun was had by all at the Annual Independence Day Party and Open House for Youth-Reach. There were over 400 in attendance to enjoy food, face painting, games, water slides, tours of the 81-acre campus, and a fabulous fireworks show! Youth-Reach in Summerdale, AL is a long-term program intended to heal past wounds and restore families. They offer a stable and healthy environment where residents can learn, grow and thrive through individualized and comprehensive guidance. The services provided by Youth-Reach are offered at no cost to residents or their families.

10th Annual

The ‘Funnest’ Fishing Tournament on the Gulf Coast!

The Flora-Bama Fishing Rodeo is a multi-species, recreational, and competitive fishing tournament for all ages. A portion of the ticket sales are donated to a non profit organization geared towards providing combat veterans with well-deserved family vacations.

Chase Simpson and Paul Decuir

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Bailey McRae, Olivia Stacey, and Breanna Kyle Kim Kennedy and Jennifer Parnell

Teale, Jacob, and Nicole Ojeda

Veronica Spoon and Carla Stewart

Vanessa Richerson and Hunter Smith

Keith, Britni, and Jeneral Griner

Donna Shippy, Rob Desselle, and Toni Desselle

Jenifer Parnell, Angel DePaola, and John McInnis III

Candace, Molly, and Derrick Todd

SOCIAL COASTAL PRESENTS TOP CHEFS &RESTAURATEURS

Klinton Burkett, Justin Lower, Graham Lowe, and Speedy Pearce

Spencer Sisson, Keith hood, Ailee Hood, and Logan Siddall

Jenna Wathen and Matt Wilson

Louis Broussard, Patrick Meador, Laura Broussard, Leah Meador, and Mitchell Meador

John Williams, Andrew Weaver, Justin McRae, Jr Sexton, Blake Knowles, and Mark Mcearchern

Gage Shirley, Ashley Shirley, and Shannon Scales

Salina Mink and Travis Kendrick Jeffrey and Laura Franks

Payson, Saige, Nick, Molly, Scotty, and Pam King

Gordon Berry, Robert Cooper, Paul Berry, Jacob Berry, and John McIlwain

Anita Skoglund, David Skuglund, Piper Pipkin, Shon Pipkin, Amber Pipkin, and Adalyn Skoglund

Taylor Sherill, Jordan Abercrombie, Emmy Abercrombie, and David Abercrombie

Kristen and Travis King

Adam Balch, Luke Barnes, and Miranda Reed Kim Kennedy and Jennifer Parnell

JANE LEE COASTAL CREATIONS

Jane Lee is the artist and owner of Coastal Creations. She moved to the Orange Beach area from Slidell, Louisiana nearly ten years ago.

She began doing different coastal art and crafts, inspired by her love of the beach. She incorporates natural elements of the Gulf Coast to create one of a kind works of art!

In addition to offering her art in shops along the gulf coast, Jane offers classes to individuals and small groups in Orange Beach, Alabama. 

COASTALCREATIONSOBA.COM

Photos by Lyndsay Stradtner, Life in Motion Photography

Networking, fellowship, food, and drinks are just a few things to expect from Coastal Chamber’s V.I.B.E @ Five. The perfect setting to mingle with other members of the business community in a relaxed, fun environment. Claremont Properties sponsored the event with excellent door prizes as well as catering provided by Chef Jennifer Lowry of Conchitas.

Brook Jones, Lori Lumsden, and Shelley Ratliff Martin Janice Kania, Gary Kania, and Leslie Davis

Time Lower, Kemar Francis, Michael Hinkle, Jordan Epperson, and Mohammad Farhan

Jennifer Prince, Marie Parrish, Samantha Fender, and Sharon Wiese

Aaron Jackson, Ashley Wilson, and Jessica Waters

Taylor Miller, Morie Miller, Shelly Hayes, and Doug Hillis

Jared Herrell and Brandon Furry

Courtney Dombroski and Amber Dion

George Fernian and Wynona Salter

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Christopher Dickhute, Megan Fazekas, Casey Buckner, and Christina Buckner

RheeAnn Hillis and Esther Milne

Steve Meyer, Steven E. Todd, and Jenny Todd

Stu Show, Jenny Summerville, Katherine Roncancio, and Robbie Engelman

Malia Elliott and Collin Travis

BUSINESS AFTER HOURS

CoastAL served as host for Perdido Key Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours for the month of May. This high-energy, after-hours networking event is held once a month to allow Chamber members to network with each other in a relaxed, informal setting.

Peggy Butler and Cameron Price

Kim Kennedy and Jenifer Parnell

Joanna and Stephen Bradford

Cheryl Bamonte and Judy Davis

Peggy Butler, Steve Powers, and Patty Powers

Bobbie Moore, Peggy Butler, Mike Moore, and Lauren Moore

Alison Burns and Dominique Siqueira

Les and Jo Ann Slaydon

Carla and Ray Waddell

Paul and Anne Frechette

Photos by Shelley Patterson

Celeste Bell, Tammi Maldonado, and Lou Maldonado

Anne Frechette, Cat Baranek, and Melissa Hardesty

Danette Sirmon and Ava Sobieszek

Glenda Tant, Scott Cunningham, and Shannon Cunningham

Beth Clark and Craig McDonnell

TIMOTHY HARRY

By Liesel Schmidt

THE PROTECTOR

The story of someone’s why can be incredibly inspiring, and the backstory behind Timothy Harry’s work—both professionally and in the community—is no exception.

The owner and founder of Severance Security, Harry launched his company after experiencing the loss of multiple friends to suicide. The underlying commonality between those friends was military service and a return Stateside after deployments that haunted their minds and their dreams. Knowing they needed to be given a sense of purpose outside of their military service, Harry created a professional executive protection

firm that would employ former military and law enforcement to provide them with that purpose. Now, the company protects some of the world’s most influential people.

In addition to protecting those high-profile clients, Harry dedicates his life to protecting those whose vulnerability made them targets of a different kind: children. As a board member of Children’s Rescue Initiative as well as a security expert, Harry does more than just send money to help the cause—he’s hands on in training the boots on the ground. “We rescue women and children from sex and labor slavery as well as

human trafficking all over the world, including here in the US,” he says. “It’s something that a lot of people have never been aware of, and if they are, they don’t know how to help.”

Harry first became involved in CRI five years ago, after hearing of their work and donating money in support. “They sent me so many photos of the little kids that had been helped, and I was just hooked,” Harry recalls. “I wanted to do something.”

So he has, locally serving on the board and training a rescue team of 50 each year with the

Photo by Derek Keller

support of the City of Orange Beach, who hosts the training program. “In the 12 years that CRI has been in operation, we have rescued over 2300 children and adults from modern day slavery and rescued more then 20 during a recuse two months ago,” Harry says. “What we do is so important because little kids are being sold for sex. It’s a terrible reality and something that needs to be stopped.”

Harry is actively working towards that as part of CRI, whose end goal is to end trafficking and slavery in every corner of the world. As a 501c3 nonprofit, all their funding comes from donations, which makes financial support incredibly important—but clearly, that was not enough to satisfy the burden Harry felt on his heart to do something. “After seeing those photos and becoming more educated on what was happening, I couldn’t just stand by.”

In his free time, Harry stays involved in the local community by serving as the Orange Beach High School skeet shooting coach and sitting on the Orange Beach Board of Adjustments. When he has time to himself, he loves to take advantage of living on the coast by going boating as much as possible. He recently became engaged and is looking forward to building a life with his fiancée.

Orange Beach Billfish Classic

The Orange Beach Billfish Classic kicked off with a lively party the evening before fishing began. Guests enjoyed great food, a full bar and live music. The OBBC is the largest tournament donor to The Billfish Foundation, a worldwide organization dedicated to conserving billfish by synthesizing science and policy into effective, yet reasonable, fishery management solutions- solutions that are good for the fish but not punitive to recreational anglers.

Photos by Shelley Patterson

Jeff Baggett and Justin Williams

Jay Teschel and Peter Chaibongsai

Libby Davidson and Scarlett Pepperman

Tyler McNamee and Natalija Cognevich

Ron and Lisa Davis

John Fitzgerald, Ashley Andrews, and Jim Cox

Erin Bell and Mackenzie Skipper

Dale Havens and Johnny Dorland

Michele Meyer and Will Easterling

Kate Dorland, Tiffany Buck, and Lindsey Pearce

Shane Osmer, Fred Kilcrease, Jason Chatham, and Stacey Lee

Johnny Dorland, Tim Jones, and Chris Ferrara

Brandon Rogers, Nick Sebastian, and Travis Dorland

Bill Speir, Greg Dorritey, Donna Dorritey, and Susan Speir

ORANGE BEACH BILLFISH CLASSIC

Photos by Jenni Guerry Photography

The Orange Beach Billfish Classic was the first major fishing tournament of the 2023 season . This event, which is a part of the Gulf Coast Triple Crown Series, has the reputation of attracting some of the best big-game anglers in the nation, showcasing both their skill and dedication to sustainable fishing practices . Competing in a field of 42 boats, Mollie, a 63' G & S from Destin set the new OBBC record with a 776.4 Blue Marlin to win this year's tournament at The Wharf in Orange Beach.

OFFICIAL 2023 ORANGE BEACH

BILLFISH CLASSIC RESULTS:

BLUE MARLIN

1st - 776.4 lbs. Mollie - Angler Brian Stover

2nd - 548.6 lbs. Miss Mary - Angler Joey DiFatta

3rd - 528.4 lbs. Reel Fire - Angler Travis Dorland

CATCH AND RELEASE

1st - Briar Patch

TUNA

1st - 148 lbs. Fins Up - Angler Charlie Thomas

WAHOO

1st - 24.4 lbs. Cotton Patch - Angler Peter Martin

DOLPHIN

1st - 25.2lbs. Miss Mary - Angler Daniel Cater

TOP LADY ANGLER

Mackenzie Davis on the Southern Charm

JUNIOR ANGLER

Clark Adams on the Gunnslinger

SUPER MOM

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Being the director of events and sponsorships for the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber in Gulf Shores/ Orange Beach, Kimberly Ray is always managing a vast calendar of events, meeting with member business owners, and creating opportunities for the businesses in the chamber’s membership to network. It is time consuming, demanding work, but Ray has learned the art of keeping the plates spinning—even as she juggles work with motherhood.

The single mother of a 17-yearold daughter, Ray has even more responsibility on her plate in having to raise her child on her own. “It can be hard and stressful at times to be a working mom, but it’s also very rewarding,” she says. “When my daughter was younger, it was difficult being a single mom and juggling her from place to place. But thankfully, I have a huge support system in my family and friends, and she never went without a ride and never missed a school function. Now that she can drive, she has a life of her own. I miss the days when I could chauffeur her from place to place, because that’s where most of our best conversations took place. But it is so rewarding to see her as a working teenager and holding responsibilities and offices in school organizations and church groups.”

Ray Kimberly

PHOTO BY XXXXXXXX

As her daughter’s greatest role model, Ray feels the weight of the example she sets, but she also takes pride in what she’s shown her daughter. “I feel like I have shown her what true work ethic looks like,” Ray says. “She has always seen me work, from restaurant jobs when she was little to hospitality management positions as she grew older and now having a job I love, that makes me feel so enriched and as though I belong. My daughter started working at a young age for my mom and has held a job since. She now works two jobs and babysits on the side, so she knows how to balance a work and social life.”

As busy as Ray and her daughter both have grown to be, she holds to one hope: “I just want her to know how much I love her and the time we spend together. Time together looks different these days with her social life—and mine—but when we do spend that time together, it is wonderful quality time. I hope she sees that I love big and want her to always love big.”

Naturally, time together is precious and appreciated, making traditions all the more important. “As a family, each Easter for the last three years, my mom has organized Easter baskets for a local mobile home community,” says Ray. “She collects money to buy supplies to put in the baskets, and we get together to package them the day before Easter. On Easter morning at 7:00 am, we deliver them to the Blessing Box located across the street from the community center. It is so heartwarming to see so many people come and pick up their baskets. These are people who are much less fortunate

“It can be hard and stressful at times to be a working mom, but it’s also very rewarding.”

than we are but are so proud of their baskets when they come to get them. My mom started it, and my daughter wants to eventually take it over.”

TOURNAMENT CELEBRATION

Mobile Big Game Fishing Club’s Gulf Coast Masters Tournament was the fourth event on the 2023 Sport Fishing Championship tournament schedule. A tournament celebration was held at the MBGFC Clubhouse the evening before fishing began. Everyone enjoyed great food, libations, as well as an opportunity to support The Emeril Lagasse Foundation.

Zack Williams, Michael Cleveland, Angelo DePaola and Matthew Sayers

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Celeste Baer, Antonia Keller, and Josh Vairin Angelo DePaola, Kristin Bernard, and Andy Bernard

Deb Hebert and Lisa Ortega Davis

Katherine Roncancio and Jenny Summerville

Sid Little and Landon Bell

Jeff Hanna, Susan Giannini, and Mike Giannini

Reagan McShane and Ashley Andrews

Candace Broughton, Brantley Devalk, and Marcy Costa

Madalyn and Connor McLeod

Hundreds of friends turned out at the Coastal Arts Center for retired city of Orange Beach employee, Chris Litton, known for his dedication to church, teaching kids marksmanship, his work for the City of Orange Beach, and so much more! There were raffles, donations, and music from “Four A Change.” All proceeds from the event go directly to Chris to offset his upcoming medical expenses.

Betsy McKinney, Randy McKinney, Samantha McDowell, and Bob McDowell

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Scott Prince and Matt McCrary

Brandy Thomley and Amy DiMario

Fran Thompson and Tony Kennon

Justin, Melissa, and Mirabella Matson

Jeff and Jimmy Boyd

Kevin and Stephanie Seeley

Pam Anderson, Marc Anderson, Ken Grimes, and Kelly Grimes

Chris and Tracey Litton

Sue and Scott Hardee

INDEPENDENCE DAY STREET PARTY

The Wharf held their annual Celebrate Independence Day Street party with a Happy Birthday to USA! This family friendly event included activities in the Entertainment District including a bubble truck, bounce houses, mechanical shark, face painting, and much more, with special appearances by Lady Liberty & Uncle Sam.

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

LaurenJames &

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDI ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY

The phrase “timing is everything” couldn’t be truer when it comes to love, and when Lauren Berry and James Mack met in high school, the timing wasn’t right… nor was it when they both ended up at Troy University. Nine years after their first meeting, they were finally ready for one another; and after two years of dating, they were ready for forever.

“James had invited some friends from out of town to come stay with us at the beach for the weekend, and he told me that we were going to eat at a nice restaurant that night,” says Lauren, describing that unforgettable April night. “I got dressed up and ready to go, and on the way, James told me he wanted to drive through Gulf State Park to show our guests the park. He suggested we get out and take a picture, and next thing I knew, he was down on one knee!”

Just over a year later, on May 20, 2023, Lauren walked down the aisle at Coastal Arts Center in Orange Beach to meet James at the altar, wearing a fit-and-flare gown with a plunging neckline, sheer bodice adorned with sequined, beaded and chiffon appliques and a chapellength train. After exchanging vows, the couple was pronounced married—though not without some memorable moments along the way: “My dad tripped over my dress as he was giving me away during the ceremony,” Lauren recalls with a laugh. “Also, the week of the wedding, I started feeling sick. I completely lost my voice the night of the rehearsal dinner and was diagnosed with laryngitis the morning of the wedding. After some meds and ‘vocal rest’ for the majority of the day, I was able to say my vows.”

Post-ceremony, the newlyweds joined their guests for an on-site reception at CAC, where they dined on a delicious selection of Cajun favorites. The festivities were made even more special by the live wedding illustrator (Amy Lee Illustration) out of Tulsa, Oklahoma, who did live sketches of the guests as a favor from the wedding, and the musical talents of Lauren’s “absolute favorite cover band,” The Park Band.

After dancing, dinner, and cake that included a delicious groom’s cake from Sugar House Custom Cakes, the newly married Macks were sent off to honeymoon in Antigua. Back home in Orange Beach, the couple look forward to all that life together brings.

Influencer

Andy Andrews has written 26 books that have been translated into 40 languages and sold more than 20 million copies, including multiple New York Times bestsellers. He is the author of The Noticer series, The Heart Mender, and the modern-day classic, The Traveler’s Gift—named by ABC’s Good Morning America as “One of the Five Books You Should Read In Your Lifetime.” Andy is the CEO of CreatingMeasurableResults.com, a corporate coaching service. He is also the founder and CEO of WisdomHarbour.com, a streaming service with the stated goal of “Creating the Next Greatest Generation… Starting With Your Hometown!” Recently, a New York Times reporter wrote, “Andy Andrews has quietly become one of the most influential people in America.”

Author and founder of WisdomHarbour.com

285k TOTAL FOLLOWERS @ANDYANDREWS

166k FOLLOWERS

80k FOLLOWERS

@ANDYANDREWSAUTHOR

2.9K POSTS

15k FOLLOWERS

COASTALLEADERS.COM

Guest and locals alike sold out the annual Celebrate Independence Day at Perdido Beach Resort. All were treated to a southern style buffet, the sounds of the Mixed Nuts pumping out classic hits, dancing, and the best firework show on the island!

Maia Pouye, Nick Souris, and Shelby Souris

Photos by Ruili Cai

Abby Tait, Brittany Lopez, Crystal Ledbetter, and Kelly Dixon Crimens Fountain and Kristen Mason

Elizabeth, Hanna, and Claire Schwarze

Christie, Teagen, Josh, and Jaxon Taff

Jennifer McIntire and Jeff Harris

Dawn Warrington, Meena Fountain, Lucy Mason, and Jon Martin Fountain

Penny Groux and Terri Long

Hayden, Zoe, and Jessie Radcliff

Millie, Brad, Max, Rhett, and Katie Gordon

Allison Mayers, Danny Huffines, G.A Mayers, Lisa Mayers, Charlene Doody, Gordon Doody,  Patricia Huffines, Beverly Ogden, Bethany Ogden, and Ray Terry

John and Alan Nelson

Pennie Ledbetter, Steve Ledbetter, Adi Ramanathan, Casey Ramanathan, JC Ledbetter, and Korrin Miller

Jessica, Jayce, Jaiden, and Troy Hulbert

Liam, William, Eliza, and Christy Chambers

in date nightIndulge

Embark on an extraordinary culinary journey at Voyagers, where exceptional cuisine, breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf, and a team of knowledgeable and attentive staff converge to create the perfect setting for any night out.

The 8th Annual Alabama Seafood Cook-Off was held at Zeke’s Restaurant in Orange Beach. This year’s winner, Chef Brody Olive of Perdido Beach Resort, received a $2,500 cash prize, earned the “Best Chef in the State” title, and will represent the state of Alabama at the 20th-Annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off which will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Terry and Ernie Anderson

Robbie Merchant, Doug Gregory, and Betty Gregory

Leah Follis and Kacie Barlow

David Zislin and Ashley Foster

Sophia Poolos and Luke Sparkman

Dan Olive and Wayne Naramore

Dossantos Geverson and Radcliff Hayden

Natalie Simpson, McKenzie Gowan, and Leo McWaters

Lindsey and Corey Platt

Luis Silvestre and Brody Olive

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Shea McGrath, Ellen Rogers, and Michael Gaona

Martha Naramore and Paula Maeker

Michele Finn, Amy Hunter, and Hendrix Snow

Cecilia Wood, Macey Hobson, and Tanner Johnson

Shaumaine McGaster and Tameya Ford

Terry Knighton and Kaitlin Fannin

Avery Dyer and Judy Wallace

Jeffrey and Kristen Compton

Ariel Stewart and Abby Tate

Brad Debray, Craid Allard, Janet Allard, Penny Manuel, Theresa Minor, and Marie Head

Randy Hillman, Cheryl Hillman, and Richard Horshok