Social Coastal | November 2023

SOCIAL COASTAL

ORANGE BEACH FREEDOM FEST | FOLEY WITCHES RIDE | NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL

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SOCIAL COASTAL

From the Editor As the cool temperatures of fall settle in and Thanksgiving approaches, we at Social Coastal Magazine are excited to bring you the latest highlights from our vibrant coastal community.

Maybe you attended The City of Orange Beach Freedom Fest, the beautiful MAAAC GALA, Evening for the Estuaries, or National Shrimp Festival – just to name a few - all exciting opportunities for us to come together as a community for both fun-filled festivities and meaningful causes.

Wishing you all a joyful Thanksgiving filled with warmth, love, and cherished moments.

OCTOBER 2023

As always, we strive to bring you engaging content that reflects the spirit of our coastal lifestyle. We hope you enjoy reading about these exciting happenings as much as we enjoyed covering them.

THE PLACE TO BE SEEN

The November edition of Social Coastal explores individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. Read about their passions for what they do and how they strive to make a lasting impact on the lives of others.

SOCIAL COASTAL

ORANGE BEACH FREEDOM FEST | FOLEY WITCHES RIDE | NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL

On the Cover: Foley Witches Ride

Eva Keesee

Editor in Chief

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TO PROTECT

OUR EXECUTIVE DEFENSE TEAM CONSISTS OF MILITARY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENTS AS WELL AS TRADE-CRAFT SPECIALISTS

STAY SEVERANCE SAFE! 4

SOCIAL COASTAL

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PENSACOLA S O C I A L I Z I N G T H R O U G H O U T T H E E M E R A L D C OA S T

Publisher David Renfro Editor-in-Chief Eva Keesee Contributing Editor Melinda McGhee Copy Editor Lana Cagle Staff Writer Liesel Schmidt Graphic Design Lead Designer Brad Growden Kim Mesman & Chris Shenk Social Media & Web Design Jen Meadows Photography Ruili Cai Andrew Crumpton Shelley Patterson, C-Shelz Photography Stephen Savage Photography Wedding Photos Jennie Tewell Photography

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Home Photos Cacti Palm Productions, Gulf Shores Sales Eva Keesee l 251.979.4278 Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429 David Renfro | 731.499.1414 Social Coastal Magazine www.socialcoastalmagazine.com

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SOCIAL COASTAL

The views and comments expressed by the authors are not always that of our editors or publishers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in the publication, Social Coastal accepts no responsibility or liability for any errors, omissions or resultant consequences, including any loss or damage arising from the reliance on information in this publication. All images contained in Social Coastal magazine are subject to the copyright of Social Coastal, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.

FLIP. CLICK. TAP. THE BEST OF THE COAST AT YOUR FINGERTIPS SOCIAL

SOCIAL COASTAL

SOCIAL S O L C A I I AL C O S COASTAL

SOCIAL COASTAL

TH E PL

THE PLACE TO BE SEEN

AC E TO BE SE EN

TH E PL AC E TO BE SE EN OCTOBER

OCTOBER 2023

COASTAL C L O A ASTAL T S A O C ORANGE BEACH FREEDOM FEST | FOLEY WITCHES RIDE | NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL

2023

OCTOBER 2023

ORAN

DOM H FREE GE BEAC

DE CHES RI LEY WIT FEST | FO

IVAL MP FEST AL SHRI | NATION

ORANGE BE

ACH FR EEDOM FEST |

FOLEY WITCHES RIDE

| NATIO NAL SH RIMP FE STIVAL

COASTAL

SOCIALCOASTALMAG

SOCIALCOASTALMAG

Contents

NOVEMBER 2023

Features

35 Influencer: Olivia Skipper

45 Social Living: Waterways

57 Supermom: Kimberly Hollis

67 Bride:

32

Amber + Hunter

35 34

12 Community Leader: Desiree Hodge

26 People You Should Know: Penny Groux

32 Impact & Give Back: Toys for Kids

34 S | Art:

12

Janel Hawkins

4

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Resource : Outreach Media Group

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Contents

NOVEMBER 2023

Events

51 Evening for the Estuaries Street 54 Chicago Supper Club Social: National 61 Get Shrimp Fest of the Isle 64 Treasures Costume Party

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15

Foley Witches Ride

22 Freedom Fest 24 Get Social: Witches Ride

72 Ladies Day Out 73 Golf Fore Education Social: Trick or Treat 74 Get with Zeke's Fleet

30 Multi Chamber Social Marina 37 Legendary Topping Off Ceremony

41 MAAAC GALA

T he

22

REAL ESTATE Issue COMING SOON

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SOCIAL COASTAL

15

61

COMMUNITY LEADER

D

esiree Hodge’s title as the director of the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach means that she is deeply involved in providing the city with arts and cultural enrichment as well as being dedicated to helping provide positive, quality experiences to the community. Over the past ten years of her time in the position, her responsibilities have included overseeing the Arts Center campus which comprises the fine arts gallery, the Hot Shop, the Clay Studio, and the Children's Art Cottage. “Programming and class options are a joint effort with all our staff working together to provide the most interesting and educational experiences we can for our guests,” says Hodge, who will soon also be managing the Waterfront Park adjacent to the Coastal Arts Center.

While Hodge’s professional background admittedly includes very little art, she believes that her organizational skills and business acumen were the reasons she was appointed to the role of executive director. Previous to coming on staff at the Arts Center, Hodge worked in the Georgia University system as executive assistant to the Dean of Continuing Education before arriving in Orange Beach in 2002 and then served as director of the local homeschooling cooperative for eight years. In that capacity, she created numerous class options, utilizing the abundance of retired professors and teachers in the area.

As successful as she was, there was still something missing.

“My heart has always been in the arts,” she explains.

“I grew up with my mother serving as the executive director of a gallery in the Atlanta area. She set a tremendous example for me to follow in the way she worked with artists to create opportunities for their community, and especially for children throughout

ARTAdvocate

Desiree Hodge

The

their county. She recently retired with many accolades for her years of service as she had received many awards and prestigious government appointments for her efforts through the years, and I'm very grateful to have worked with her in her early years because I learned so much from her. When my daughter graduated and left for college, I knew I wanted to get back to work and saw the position for the Arts Center open, and so my journey began. I’d actually taken a position with the Friends of the Arts first as their grant administrator after they received a $500,000 BP grant and needed assistance with the processing of that.

Then I was approached by the city for the Art Center position for which I had expressed interest. The two positions really dovetailed nicely.”

Having recently celebrated her tenth anniversary as director, Hodge has seen growth and change at the Arts Center over the years and built strong relationships with the creative community in a way that, while being necessary to her job, are nourishing 12

SOCIAL COASTAL

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

to her soul and her love of the arts. “I have met so many wonderful creative people that have impacted my life in special ways,” she says. “My love of what the arts can give to a community keeps me inspired to do more and find ways to affect positive change.

This world needs as much positivity as we can give, and this community is filled with amazing artists.”

Hodge’s favorite events include the Festival of Art each year in March as well as the concerts presented through the Acoustic Arts Series and the Art Center’s partnership with the Frank Brown International Songwriters Festival.

“Music is just so good for the soul,” says Hodge.

In addition to her work at the Arts Center, Hodge is also the city liaison to the Friends of the Arts and supports the Children's Advocacy Center for Baldwin County. “I used to be a foster parent here, and I know the hard work they do,” she explains.

She was recently married to “the most wonderful man that I never expected to meet, and I'm looking forward to more traveling and more music concerts with him in the future,” says Hodge, who has a daughter who lives in Foley, whom she considers her best friend, as well as a foster daughter and son-inlaw with two children. “I count them all as ‘mine,’” she says.

In her free time, she enjoys photography, reading, and music of all types— “But mostly, it is my job that gives me great joy and fulfillment.”

S O C I A L COA STA L

TOP CHEFS

& RESTAURATEURS

COMING SOON!

NOVEMBER 2023

13

FOLEY WITCHES RIDE | FOLEY

Lauren Burch, Sara DeSeno, and Brelyn James

Jenny Musgrove and Morgan Julie

Gail Cash and Gina Beck

Susan Randall and Alyssa Forbus

Tiffany Villanova and Sara Witherspoon

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Foley Witches Ride took place in Downtown Foley to benefit the betterment of local community organizations. This years beneficiaries were Family Promise, Foley Backpack Feeding Program, Turkey Take Out, Foley High School, Foley Middle School, Foley Elementary School, & Florence B Mathis Elementary School. Attendees enjoyed live music, food trucks, and community!

Trish Scarpuzzi and Connie Robertson

Cyndi Lazzari and Hannah Smith

Deedee Starace, Wendy Proctor and Christa Norton

Stephanie Toole, Leanne Willis and Shannon Dunlavy

Dianna Okeson and Nancy Woodwork

NOVEMBER 2023

15

FOLEY | FOLEY WITCHES RIDE

Eden Allen, Alexis Pilkington and Karen Miller

Meghan Hudson and Tammy Fleming

Kaci Hart, Abby Cobb and Bryanna Sykes

SOCIAL Katrena Darring and Diane Gilliam

April Wilson, Ashton Wilson and Brittney Alexander

EATON EY DAILEY AND IVY WH YVONNE MCMILLAN, LAC

COMING SOON

Leigh Ann, Kaitlyn Wallace and Paula Boswell

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SOCIAL COASTAL PRESENTS

TOP CHEFS

&

RESTAURATEURS

Tina Chinn, Lisa Thomas and Mimi Matthews

Monique Parrish, Emma Minton, Laquita Parrish and Jennifer Mathison

Tammy Pierce, Karolyn Reader and Jenny Williams

Melanie Schaff, Tracey Payne and Sara Witherspoon

Megan Lambert and Connie Robertson

Amy Ebert, Ashley Wicklund and Tiffany Villanova

Kristen Wiley, Amanda Jackson, Hannah Green and DeAnne Green

Chrissy Darby and Amber Beavers

Profiles of the BEST of the Gulf Coast’s restaurant industry. for more information: Eva@SocialReallyWorks.com or David@SocialReallyWorks.com NOVEMBER 2023

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DESIGN. DEFINE.

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ORANGE BEACH | FREEDOM FEST

Jay Springstee, Louis Kourt, and Danny Sullivan

Dale Johnson and Kelli Cefalu

Misti and Lane Savoie

Emily Clark and Jake McMahon

Hannah Roberts and Chris Sanders

Rich and Nicole Etheridge

Josh Lopez and Robin Guidry

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

The 3rd Annual Orange Beach Freedom Fest and Bama Coast Cruisin’ Car Show returned to the coast to showcase vintage and classic cars. Main Street was lined with activities, information, arts and crafts, and vendor booths for festival goers to enjoy.

Alex, Ellie, and Evan Higgins

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Jimmy and Jackie Whitehead

Taylor, Emily, Georgia, and Jared Ashley

Brittany Pace, Susan Smith, and Todd Smith

Danielle and Bud McCrory

James Ping, Chandler Ping, and Dale Collier

Michelle Hite and Matt Finklea

Reginald and Carla Williams

NOVEMBER 2023

23

FOLEY WITCHES RIDE Photos by Stephen Savage

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SOCIAL COASTAL

FOLEY WITCHES RIDE Photos by Stephen Savage

OCTOBER 2023

25

PEOPLE YOU SHOULD KNOW

PASSION CHANGES EVERYTHING!

By Liesel Schmidt

PENNY GROUX

While some people put in so many hours at the office that they “practically live at work,” Penny Groux literally lived at Perdido Beach Resort during the week for the first 13 years she worked for the company. On weekends, she would drive home to her husband and kids in Huntsville, Alabama, to spend time with them. “The hotel truly has been a ‘home away from home’ for a long time,” says Groux, who joined the staff at Perdido Beach Resort in 2000.

In 2013, when both of Groux’s daughters finished school and her husband was able to get the house sold, the couple officially moved to Orange Beach to stay. “What’s not to love?” poses Groux, whose husband, Karl, is now general manager at the hotel. “I live at the beach, I have a terrific job, I get to work with family and extended family, and no two days are alike.”

Indeed, they are not. Over the course of her career, Groux has worked her way through a number of positions, first starting as a technical recruiter for Intergraph and moving up through the ranks to become the executive director of Worldwide Corporate Human Resources, responsible for all HR functions across the globe. “It really was an awesome job,” Groux notes. “However, my number one commitment was to the founders of the company, who also happened to be the owners of Perdido Beach Resort. I basically followed them here and went from high-tech to high-touch.”

Since joining the resort 23 years ago, she’s held numerous titles, though her primary role was initially to oversee human resources. In 2016, she became director of corporate affairs. “Currently, the challenge is having enough hours in the day to get

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everything done,” she says. “After 23 years here, however, I suppose I bring a lot of institutional knowledge as well as relationships I have developed locally and throughout the state of Alabama. The hotel has changed greatly over this period of time, and we are constantly looking for ways to improve and for ways to give back to the community. I led the ‘give back’ charge about 11 years ago because the hotel wasn’t involved on any level outside our building. Since Karl’s arrival as our General Manager, however, this commitment has grown exponentially and now we are involved not only in local charity events, but statewide events as well.

In two decades, Groux has seen a number of shifts—in life, in her work, in the world. Challenges that affected the economy, tourism, the corporate landscape, and the job market. Changes that simplified life at the same time as they complicated it. Yet through it all, she has maintained a love for her work that makes her a strong leader of her team. “It’s easy to be passionate if you enjoy working in an environment that is different every day,” she says. “A person must love what they are doing because we are relating to customers or potential customers all the time. The face of every one of our team members is the ‘face of the hotel,’ and, honestly, we have a lot of very passionate people here, which is critical to our success. The team at Perdido Beach Resort is like extended family, and I sincerely love them dearly. Our average team member has been with us over 15 years, so we’ve spent a lot of time together, and those relationships and love for our work are what make us who we are as a company.”

In addition to her husband being a member of the hotel team, Groux’s youngest daughter, Jessie, works as the director of revenue management and marketing. Her eldest daughter, Jenny, lives in Virginia and works for the US Patent Office in Washington, DC.

NOVEMBER 2023

27

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SOCIAL COASTAL

Come Have a Ball at the Beach!

VACATION RENTAL MANAGEMENT & FULL SERVICE REAL ESTATE NOVEMBER 2023

31

IMPACT & GIVE BACK

A

GALA of GIVING

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

IT ALL STARTED IN 2012 WITH A BICYCLE. Or rather, a lack of them.

At the time, co-owners of Orange Beach-based Wildflowers Boutique and mother-daughter team Terri Long and Candice Duncan, had heard that Christian Service Center would be short on bicycles for their holiday toy drive and wanted to help.

“Candice and I had already been involved with CSC for two years, starting with their Angel Tree Program that we supported at our boutique,” Long explains.

“We knew when we started Wildflowers together that 32

SOCIAL COASTAL

we wanted to give back to the community together, as well. When we heard about the need for bicycles that year, we pitched an idea to the owner of Fisher’s Dockside to allow Wildflowers to host a small fashion show during Locals’ Night and charge a $25 donation at the door for ‘Bikes for Kids,’ as the drive was called at that time. With that $25 at donation at the door combined with people donating bikes, we raised over 250 bikes that night for the CSC.”

Energized and encouraged by that success, Long and Duncan decided that they would continue the bicycle drive as an annual event. Over the next three

years, Wildflowers Boutique and Fisher’s Dockside continued in partnership—and then, they outgrew the space. “Candice and I were approached by Karl Groux of Perdido Beach Resort, who asked us to allow him to help us to build this event into something even bigger by changing up the venue to their Grand Ballroom.”

And so, the beginnings of the annual Toys for Kids Local Charity Gala were taking shape. Now fully realized into a fun, glamorous event, the gala offers a unique experience that also benefits a very worthy cause. “When people come to the event, they’ll

from our local community,” Long notes. “Our hearts are so in love with this program that does so much for our community, and it shines through in every step. It takes everyone coming together to make this event what it is. We are so passionate about supporting the CSC because of their mission and the people involved in seeing that mission through. They are such blessings to our community, and most of them have volunteered there for over ten years with no pay. They could be doing anything, but they choose to be of service to God and their community through the CSC. see a beautiful sold-out room in the Perdido Beach Grand ballroom along with a fashion show, great food, live music, silent and live auctions, and a sense of giving back,” says Long of the gala, held this year on November 11 from 6:30 pm until 10:30 pm. “It's a great time, for a great cause!”

“When CSC assists a family with rent, utilities, or food, that most definitely blesses children with a roof over their heads, power on in the house, and food on the table,” she goes on.

“Support for and participation in this fundraiser can do so much for children in Gulf Shores, Orange Beach and Fort Morgan. It is only through donations and fundraisers that the Over the past ten years, a total of over $500K has been raised all-volunteer CSC can assist families in need. This spectacular at the November event, plus an enormous number of toys event draws over 375 local supporters and is by far the largest collected. Now, the money goes towards the Christmas Cheer fundraiser for CSC. One hundred percent of all ticket and program, providing toys for more than 500 children each year. auction proceeds go to CSC, and we’re so incredibly proud The gala’s profits also fund other children’s programs within of what we have been able to give this amazing organization the CSC. Last year, the event raised over $190,000 for the CSC. over the past decade and humbled by what they do.”

“We’ve grown this event into an annual gala that has lasted more than a decade through the commitment and support

For more information on tickets, visit wildflowersboutiqueob.com. wildflowersboutiqueob.com.

YOUR LOCAL GULF COAST EXPERT S E L L I N G R E S I D E N T I A L & CO M M E RC I A L P RO P E RT I E S F RO M T H E EAST E R N S H O R E TO T H E B EAC H

AMBER BROWN

REALTOR® | ROBERTS BROTHERS, INC. 251-533-9255 | A M B E R B R O W N @ R O B E R T S B R O T H E R S . C O M NOVEMBER 2023

33

SAND CASTLE UNIVERSITY @SAND_CASTLE_UNIVERSITY @SANDCASTLEU @SAND_CASTLE_UNIVERSITY

JANEL HAWKINS Janel Hawkins, local sculptor and entrepreneur, is raising the bar. As an artist living her dream, Janel's love of the Gulf Coast is shown through creativity in sand. Her creations can be spotted along our beaches, delighting those who are fortunate enough to come across them before they vanish forever.

Janel's sand-sculpting expertise is not just for her alone. Through Sand Castle University, people of all ages can learn to create their own sand masterpieces.

Whether you're interested in a custom sculpture or simply enjoying a group activity, Janel can make the impossible possible – all with the power of...sand!

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photos: JANEL HAWKINS AND 6AM DIGITAL

WWW.SANDCASTLEU.COM

Influencer

OLIVIA SKIPPER LIVING Mom I Entrepreneur I Designer I Lover of Fashion

Photography by: LT Photography and Brittany Bell Photography

livia Skipper of Orange Beach, AL has carved a niche for herself in the fashion and design industry by creating spaces that blend modern minimalism with coastal aesthetics, setting her apart as an innovative designer who brings beauty and functionality into every space she creates.

 @OLIVIASKIPPERLIVING

Inspired by her travels around the world with her husband and her experience as a dedicated mom to three beautiful girls, Olivia’s impressive portfolio of new-builds and styling services continues to make waves in the fashion and interior design industry.

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Coming Soon

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Margaritaville Coming to Legendary Marina & Yacht Club!

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Scan QR to Make a Reservation and View Rates Legendary Marina & Yacht Club 335 Waterway W Blvd Gulf Shores, AL 36542 legendarygulfshores 850-424-6689 legendarymarinagulfshores.com

TOPPING OFF CEREMONY | GULF SHORES

Peter Bos, Chris Bos, and David Coyle

Brook Jones and Jacon Clabo

Felescie Chubbs and Jo Ann Knowles

TOPPING OFF CEREMONY Jennifer Williams and Kellie Steele

Bruce Vredenburg and Michelle Boerstler

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Legendary Marina & Yacht Club invited the community to celebrate a historical moment in construction as they raised the final beam. The Topping Off Party was kicked off with celebratory refreshments and gave attendees the opportunity to explore the construction site with guided tours. Plans for a Margaritaville Restaurant and Hotel were unveiled to complement the plans for the new Waterway Village Development.

Lynne Darden, Keith Wilson, and Deanna Wilson

Adam Martin and Nathan Cox

Charles Duncan and Tyler Hayes

Tracey and Mark Cato

Noel Hand, Blake Phelps, and Steve Griffin

NOVEMBER 2023

37

GULF SHORES | TOPPING OFF CEREMONY

Kristy and Darrell Smith

Glenn and Terry Bass

Kyle Nadrowski and Ryan Boudreaux

Dallas Wood, Scott Mattei, and Philip Harris

Derek Lewis and Terri Bos

April Shackelford and William Frank

Jeremy Holcomb, Shane Strause, and David Cadenhead

Pete Knowles and Greg Darden

John and Ramona Olcott

38

Hunter and Sharon Waite

SOCIAL COASTAL

Garett Kelley and Zac Cordova

Kim Jones, Todd Walton, and Easton Colvin

Connie Bonner, Janie Mikloucich, and Rick Helmick

Traci and Willie Hoven

Adam Campbell, Drew Dolan, and Cameron Thatcher

Ward Luis and Brett Sanders

Stephen and Vanessa Teeple

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4830 Wharf Pkwy W, Suite G-106, Orange Beach, AL NOVEMBER 2023

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PHOENIX SOUTH POINT

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MAAAC FUNDRAISING GALA | ORANGE BEACH

Chris and Amanda Dickens

Ty and Leah Cowan

Kayley and Josh Hoyle

Dan and Amanda Vogel

Owen Nordan and Gabrielle Napier

Photos by Shelley Patterson

The Makos Academics, Arts, and Athletics Club (MAAAC) hosted its 4th Annual MAAAC Gala and Silent Auction in the Grand Ballroom of Perdido Beach Resort. Attendees enjoyed the atmosphere, dining, and music provided by Fuego. MAAAC is a non-profit of volunteers who work together to raise donations for all the Makos athletic sports, art clubs, and academic programs held throughout each school year.

Judy and Danny Kruse

Lindsey and Gary Pearce

Cam and Cam Price

Madge and Brent Williamson

Kasandra Stuart, Robert Stuart and Misty Payne

NOVEMBER 2023

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ORANGE BEACH | MAAAC FUNDRAISING GALA

Karen Atkins and Mike Harley

Daniel and Mary Kate Lantrip

Eric and Meagan West

Brandon and Kristen Rayborn

ZIMMERMAN, AND ERIKA CAPRI, SHANDIE

Coach and Kellie Steele

SHELLY MCINNIS

COMING SOON

Gerald Hughes, Melinda Hughes, Yolanda Johnson, and Jerry Johnson

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ON THE COAST

ALL THINGS BOATS

Casey and Crystal Tomecek

Josh Hoyle and Steve Devoursney

Tony, Elena and Rob Morales

John and Amy Holliday

Krista and Rocky Rowlett

Jessica Lazzarino, Neeli Faulkner, and Kolo Wilkinson

Lisa and David Nix

Mike and Jenna Coates

M

A

GA

ZIN

E NOVEMBER 2023

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SOCIAL LIVING

STORY BY LIESEL SCHMIDT HOUSE PHOTOGRAPHY BY CACTI PALM PRODUCTIONS

A

s part of a new community of newly built homes, this 60-lot subdivision offers eight floorplans with large windows and a choice of three to four bedrooms and square footage ranging from 2300 to 3664. The homes are designed in a Modern Coastal style with a European flair, featuring exteriors of painted white brick with urban bronze Hardiplank, stained Cypress wood and copper accents.

Built on 20 acres of pristine land along the banks of the Intracoastal Waterway in Gulf Shores, Alabama, Waterways is an upscale, private, gated community offering 60 exclusive homesites and a wide range of amenities. Homeowners enjoy access to a private marina, boat launch and fenced boat storage, wooded walking trails, a community pool and outdoor cooking and dining facilities. Waterways also provides lawn maintenance and irrigation supply for each private residence, creating a community that encourages living a carefree lifestyle.

NOVEMBER 2023

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SOCIAL LIVING

Each home offers customizations such as engineered hardwood and tile flooring, and fabulous kitchens make cooking and entertaining enjoyable, with large islands, custom floor-to-ceiling cabinetry and stainless-steel appliance suites including dual fuel ranges and icemakers. Screened-in porches create a relaxing space to spend mornings or evenings and are sure to be a favorite. The master suites in all of the homes gracious, with high ceilings, wide baseboards and walk-in closets with custom built-ins, giving homeowners a sanctuary for escaping the day.

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SOCIAL COASTAL

A joint venture of The Fortis Company with leadership and inspiration coming from Ercil Godwin of Sawgrass, the Waterways community was created with a vision of bringing the 30A, European inspiration to Gulf Shores and to offer something different to anything else in the area, capitalizing on the peaceful, pristine location.

2904 Straits Blvd.

Gulf Shores, AL 36542 251-504-2388 info@waterwaysgs.com www.waterwaysgs.com

NOVEMBER 2023

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EVENING FOR THE ESTUARIES GALA | ORANGE BEACH

Darryl Boudreau and Chips Kirschenfeld

Dustin Ridgway and Victoria Lawrence

Judy Haner and Matthew Posner

Emily and Woody Speed

Whitney Scheffel and Katie Baltzer

Photos by Ruili Cai

The Pensacola & Perdido Bays Estuary Program’s first annual Evening for the Estuaries Gala at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach was an evening filled with live music, drinks, hors d’oeuvres (including oysters!), a silent auction, and giving back to the waters we call home.

Mike Thomin and Nicole Grinnan

Casey Fearon and Charlene Mauro

Fred and Blair Garth

Desiree Hodge, Joni Blalock and Tracy Holiday

Jacey Cosentino and Vernon Compton

NOVEMBER 2023

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ORANGE BEACH | EVENING FOR THE ESTUARIES GALA

Jeanette Kelson and Becky Prado

Jeff and Sharon Posner

Kate and Jarrod Dawson

Jill and Grover Robinson, Shannon and Mike Kohler (Commissioner District 2)

Whitney Fike, Kayla Stanley and Laurie McLain

Ron and Heather Pingrey

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Samantha Bolduc and Jimmy Pitts

Jeff Barrett and Marissa Taylor

Ted Reese, Eric Schneider, Vernon Compton and Mack Thetfrod

Julie Parsons, Haley Gancel and Molly McDaniel

Kelly and Kyle Buck

Jane Herndon and Phillip West

Brandon and Kiersten Jarvis

Logan McDonald and Tim Sullivan

Jason and Stephanie Wilkins

Emily and Woody Speed

24820 Canal Road | Orange Beach, Al | melaniemartininteriors.com | (251) 981-1080 NOVEMBER 2023

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FOLEY | CHICAGO STREET SUPPER CLUB

Adam and Bailey Stitt

Ursula and Daniel Thompson

Casey and Christina Buckner

Sara Navarro, Jayson Walker, and Brent Walker

Marc Crawford and Winston McQuitery

Photos by Ruili Cai

South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Chicago Street Supper Club in the heart of downtown Foley on North Chicago Street. This event featured a four-course meal prepared by top local chefs and the guests are treated to a well-curated menu with amazing wine selections. The Chamber hosts this event to bring the community together, one bite at a time.

Ryan and Alvita Simmons

Vince and Brooke Johnson

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Amy and Charlie Ebert

Brenton and Crawford McWilliams

Bob and Samantha McDowell

Sommer Miller, Steve Miller, Alysha Miller, and Chris Miller

Georgianna and Matt Snowden

Gordon and Charlene Doody

Unni Amundsen, Tom Johansson, Nick Wilmott, and Donna Owen

Greg Rawls, Kristin Hellmich, Meredith South, and Josh South

NOVEMBER 2023

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SUPERMOM

SUPER

MOM

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Kimberly Hollis is the mother of three extremely accomplished young adults.

Her eldest, Charlie is pre-med at Huntingdon College in Montgomery and signed on to play football for the school. Henley, her middle child, will graduate at the top of his class from Gulf Shores High School in May of 2024 with plans to go to Samford University— not to mention his active involvement on the United Way of Baldwin County Youth Board, attendance at Boys’ State, and his local representation at the Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership. Her daughter, Portia, is a school ambassador at Gulf Shores High School in addition to being active in the theater department and numerous clubs, a children’s church leader at Gulf Shores Methodist Church, part of the competition team at The Studio in Daphne and Miss Jubilee’s Teen, as well as placing in the top-15 as part of the Miss Alabama Organization.

All of these are reasons for her to be tremendously proud. The fact that she raised such accomplished young adults as a single mother is even more reason.

Kimberly

The kindergarten teacher has been on staff at Orange Beach Elementary since it opened its doors in 1997, starting her first year as a third-grade teacher before moving to kindergarten. More than 20 years into her career, what makes her an incredible teacher is her love for children. “My favorite part of kindergarten is that five-year-olds are open to learning everything,” Hollis says. “They are so inquisitive and excited about making connections >> and realizing they can do so much! I love

Hollis

NOVEMBER 2023

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“I want my children to remember that I was ‘all in’ on everything they did”

being the person who gets to see their eyes light up when they read their first word or first book or write their first sentence. It’s so magical and rewarding.”

PHOTO: BEACH SHUTTER PHOTOGRAPHY

Of course, as much as she is there for other children, she has always made making her own children feel seen and taken care of a priority—even though it hasn’t always been simple. “As a single mother of three, juggling motherhood and working outside the home has not been easy,” she admits. “The school activities and the extracurricular activities for three kids, plus not wanting to limit what they can participate in, allowing them to find their passions, and wanting them to be well rounded has made my calendar beyond full. There have been days when I showed up to work overwhelmed, exhausted, and running on empty and not sure if I could make it all happen for everyone that day, just to be met with coworkers and students who loved me just as I was, giving me the positivity I needed. There have been times when I have sent my kids to school and later wondered if I had signed all the papers that I was supposed to, if I’d packed the correct lunch in the correct lunchbox, and if they even had all they needed for the school day or the activities they had after school. I know I have missed a lot over the years, but I tried very hard to make great memories with them whenever I could. Since their first days of kindergarten all the way to now, I try to stick surprises in their lunchboxes throughout the year just to make a regular day a little more special and to let them know I’m thinking of them.”

Looking at the family she has raised, Hollis has both pride and humility for who they are and how they got there. “I dreamt of the all-American family growing up and never imagined I would be raising three children alone,” she says. “I would not be where I am today without the most amazing parents, Ed and Carol Solomon.

I have been blessed to have parents who modeled for both me and my three children the importance of faith, family, love, service,

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and integrity, but most of all, work ethic. My circumstances may not necessarily align with what I had always envisioned, but I am right where God has called me to be.”

With children who are almost grown, Hollis hopes that they never doubt her devotion to them.

“I want my children to remember that I was ‘all in’ on everything they did,” she says. “I supported their differences and wanted them each individually to believe in and realize how special they are. I believed in them completely, and I pushed them because I knew their future was going to be incredible and they could do great things.”

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NATIONAL SHRIMP FESTIVAL Photos by Andrew Crumpton

For over 50 years this volunteer-driven event has been a tradition on the beautiful beaches of Coastal Alabama.

Food, music, art, and so much more made up an action packed weekend with nearly 250,000 in attendance.

OCTOBER 2023

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®

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THE GOLF CART EXPERTS TWO LOCATIONS IN FAIRHOPE: 23801 US-98 & 111 S SECTION ST | 251.517.7974 | HMGOLFCARTSALES.COM NOVEMBER 2023

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ORANGE BEACH | TREASURE OF THE ISLE COSTUME PARTY

Ana and Chris Connolly

Pam Law and Paul Price

y t r a P e m u Cost

Debbie Noonin, Lisa Barfield and Louie Barfield

Kellie and Barry Burks

Kevin Geri and Mary Muhe

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

The 9th annual Treasure of the Isle Costume Conte st was held in the heart of Orange Beach at the Event Center.

Attendees grooved to live music by The Groovinators, and were entered into the cash prize contests for Best Male, Female, Couple, and Group costumes. There was also a prize for best decorated table.

Patsy and Rich Young

Linda and Brian Connolly

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Beth Bundy and Patricia Mendoza

Marcia Below and Theresa Brasfield

Bernadette Dolessharmon, Romero Donnelly and Deema Donnelly

Justina Ralston and Alex Martin

Laura Elliott and Melynda Hicks

Lily Gathings and Ken Nuton

Jackie and Jimmy Whitehead

Diana and Fred Armstrong

Dianne McEllroy, Kaleigh McElroy, Wendy McElroy and Robin Watson

Rachel Deerman and Taresa Deerman

Les Gueydan, Pam Davidson and Rickey Davidson

Gail and McKinnely Ephriams

Grant Riley and Kella Bates

Karen and Ross Whiteworth

Donna and Ricky Bagwell

NOVEMBER 2023

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25814 CANAL RD SUITE 7 ORANGE BEACH,AL 36561 251-970-2060 & THE WHARF 4851 WHARF PKWY SUITE D-112 ORANGE BEACH, AL 36561 251-424-1709 WWW.FRANKCOOBA.CO I INFO@FRFANKCOOBA.CO CARTIER - JB STAR - OMEGA - CUSTOM JEWELRY - ROLEX PRE-OWNED

OCTOBER 2023

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OCTOBER 2023

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FOLEY | LADIES DAY OUT

Kate Norris, Sarah Harper, and Amanda Kelly

Victoria Hattemar and Gaylene Hess

Nancy Dickhute and Susan Powrie

Amie Rogers, Jennifer Lambert, and Gaye Butler

Barbara Malugen and Helen Williams

Photos by Ruili Cai

Ladies Day Out was a huge success as area physicians, Dr. Judy Corbett, and Dr. Robert Brown shared important information that can help women live longer, healthier lives. Too Hot Mamas hosted a fashion show and local vendors offered everything from permanent jewelry to beauty services.

Melanie Deters and Peggy McNeely

Debbie Andrews and Pam Monore

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Cyndi Honeycutt and Kathy Siegling

Nancy McMeekin, Teresa McKenzie, and Betty Boone

Ingrid Hanson and Pam Harris

GOLF FORE! EDUCATION | FOLEY

Ben Catlin and Jim Stewart

Ed Bushaw and Bill Tunnel

David Lee, Aaron Callaway, and Todd Koniar

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Matt Pierce, Parker Ellis, and Brian Jones

Derek Thieme and James Fisher

The South Baldwin Chamber Foundation partnered with Glen Lakes Golf Club to host the 3rd Annual Golf FORE! Education golf tournament. Players enjoyed fun and games on the course in addition to a silent auction throughout the day. This tournament raises funds for the South Baldwin Chamber Foundation which supports local schools through programs and partnerships that enrich education, develop leadership, and better the community.

Philip McKibbin and Carroll Shawver

Jennifer King and Debora Logel

Chad Watkins and Bobby McNair

Shane Melton, Kelly Rosson, Frank Leatherwood, and Finley leatherwood

Dewane Hayes and Caleb Davis

NOVEMBER 2023

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SOCIAL ST WINNER “BARBIE” FLEET CONTE

TRICK OR TREAT WITH ZEKE’S FLEET Zeke’s Marina in Orange Beach hosted their “Trick or Treat with Zeke’s Fleet,” with the marina’s charter boats adorned with Halloween decorations & offering kids a unique trickor-treating experience. Children went boat to boat collecting treats and encountering a few tricks along the way. It was an amazing unique experience for kids of all ages.

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