Social Eastern Shore | May 2024

SOCIAL

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS

“Turning Ideas into Reality”

For over 25 years, Gulf States Real Estate and our affiliate companies have been providing commercial and residential real estate brokerage, property management, construction, and development services to our clients. I would like to say that this was all my idea, but it was not. Over the years, our clients challenged us to expand our service mix to better meet their needs.

Certainly, it was not an easy task to build a TEAM of individuals with diverse talents, backgrounds and experiences. However, with the right people, we have been able to produce some incredible projects for our clients and within the communities where we are. We are now active in over a dozen states around the U.S. Our geographic diversity combined with our unique product mix have proven to be essential in navigating natural disasters, pandemics, major shifts in business climates, and increasing governmental regulations.

I am so proud of our team! I want to thank them and our clients for their contributions and support. Looking forward with extreme confidence to “Turning Ideas Into Reality” for the next quarter century and beyond. -Mike Saucier, President

SHAPING THE GULF COAST, I-10 & I-12 CORRIDOR

Gulf States Real Estate Corporate Headquarters

-Mike Saucier

KIA of Covington

Copperstill Market

New Orleans Superdome

Photo by Daniel Schwen

From the Editor

It was Edwin Teale who said, “The world’s favorite season is the spring. All things seem possible in May.” In this issue, we are excited to feature local leaders in the financial industry who help make great things possible for their clients… things like starting and growing businesses, planning for a comfortable retirement and more.

We also share the stories of some of your neighbors who are making a difference in the lives of others in our community by connecting local businesses with the resources of the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce and working with talented K9s to save lives or bring closure to families. As always, this issue is full of wonderful events and the people who supported the organizations whose missions were benefited.

I recently attended an outstanding event at which the guest speaker shared how she tells the stories of people who need to be heard to give inspiration to others. We continue to be inspired by the amazing people who appear in our pages, and we are thankful they have allowed us to share their story with you.

Melinda McGhee Managing Editor Alabama

SOCIAL

Photo by

EASTERN SHORE

On the Cover: Meg Willett, Brittanie Koenemann, Alicia Searcy, Ravin Jordan, Megan Harris and Dr. Bonnie Hodge

Cover

Andrew Crumpton

Publisher David Renfro

Managing Editor Alabama

Melinda McGhee

Copy Editor

Lana Cagle

Staff Writer

Liesel Schmidt

Graphic Design

Lead Designer Kim Mesman

Chris Shenk & Brad Growden

Social Media & Web Design

Jen Meadows

Photography

Ruili Cai

Andrew Crumpton

Cindy McCrory

Stephen Savage

Social Living Photography

Jon Jeffress

Cindy McCrory

Wedding Photography

Emily Songer Photography

Sales

Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429

Emily Klyce Hansen | 251.583.2309

Weslyn Walters | 251.895.4563

David Renfro | 731.499.1414

Eva Keesee | 251.979.4278

Social Eastern Shore Magazine www.socialeasternshore.com

SOCIAL

FAMILY OF BRANDS

Coming Soon

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FROM STARTER HOMES TO DREAM HOMES

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WESLEY

CARPENTER

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Dothan native Wesley Carpenter moved to Fairhope in 2014 and almost immediately joined the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce, hoping to build new relationships and help drive economic growth in the area he had now begun to call home.

“Community involvement has always been important to me, and I was previously a member of Birmingham and Mobile Chambers of Commerce,” Carpenter explains. “I feel that the chamber is a vital part of any healthy economy, as it is the hub that drives business and overall quality of life for our communities. This year, the Eastern Shore Chamber is celebrating its century anniversary, and I hope we can propel the chamber forward for another 100 years!”

Carpenter became chairman of the board in 2024, with a goal of making a great impact and helping local businesses. “My vision for the chamber is to continue its original mission of connecting member business with resources to help make the Eastern Shore the best place to live, work, and cultivate business,” says Carpenter, whose role, as board chair, is to help provide leadership and direction for the rest of the team along with being heavily involved in the community.

He is, indeed, active within the community, serving not only with the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce but also with the Alabama Leadership Initiative, Leadership Baldwin County, Community Foundation of South Alabama, Business Council of Alabama, Coastal 150, St. Lawrence Catholic Parish, Mobile Big Game Fishing Club, Senior Bowl, Red Elephant Club, and Sigma Nu Alumni Association.

Professionally, Carpenter serves as senior resident director and wealth management advisor at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management in Fairhope, working with a select group of professionals, business owners and retirees, and is the co-founder of The HARTY CARPENTER GROUP. “We are one of the preeminent wealth advisory teams in the Southeast,” says Carpenter, who, over the past 20 years, has built a team that emphasizes honest advice, in-depth customization, and committed service. “I provide financial planning, investment strategies, and overall wealth management for families and businesses in our communities along with 26 other states. This is my 20th year in the financial industry with 18 years at Merrill Lynch, and I love that every day I am helping people meet their desired

Carpenter has been named to numerous industry lists including Barron’s Top 1,200 Financial Advisors list from 2023 to 2021, as well as Financial Planning’s Top 40 Advisors Under 40 list in 2020 and 2021 and Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors list consecutively from 2018 through 2023.

In his free time, Carpenter enjoys Alabama football, offshore fishing, golfing, and spending time with his wife and their two sons.

With New Construction

Phoenix Key

Phoenix Gulf Shores II

Phoenix South Point

Photo Credit: Andrew Crumpton

2024

BALDWIN

ART FOR HEART ™

Gala

The 2024 Baldwin Art For Heart Gala unfolded as a grand affair on a picturesque spring evening, marking a century of impact and raising over three hundred thousand dollars. Guests enjoyed exquisite catering and engaged in lively silent and live auctions. In a poignant moment, the late Dr. Todd Tobiassen, honored as this year’s Medical Honoree, was remembered fondly. Tonia Turner and Marlo Webb, the esteemed Co-Chairs, led with unwavering dedication, infusing their passion into every aspect of the gala.

Casey and Haley Cornelius

Bryan and Amberly Andrews

John Walker, Fisher, Eric and Brooke Nelson

Bailey, Tonia, and Bella Turner

Mary France Crump and Melissa May

Sharon and Jeff Wiese

Terry Quinley and Michelle Peterson

Gordon and Jeannette Smart

Emily McDaniel and Madison Steele

Justin and Caroline Massey

Photos by Ruili Cai

Cindy Blatterman and Shauntelle Henshaw

John and Chastity Cloutier

Yolanda Johnson, Jacob Johnson and Jerry Johnson

Otto Wilburn and Melissa Wilburn

Amanda Spears and Eddie Harper

Dennis and Sharleen Martin

Nickole Haymaker and Taylor Lewis

Traci Newby and Emily Byrd

Mary Cain Fowler and Bill Raus

Victoria Griggs, Eddie Osborne, Terri Long and Mike King

Summer Franco, Marlo Webb, Tonia Turner and Caroline Massey

Asa and Lauren Goode

Ashley Rossy and Hannah Sawyer

Crawford and Brenton McWilliams

Lindsay and Vince McCoy

Tiffany Stokley and Melissa Morrison

Monica Nash and Autumn Woods

Janine and Cory Skipper

Glenn and Joelle Foster Haylee Howard and Bridgett Dunn

Nikki and Aaron Deal

Bryan and Amberly Andrews

Hannah and Zach Bolden

Darrin and Connie Carlisle

Will and Lee Anna

Jessica Wilson Lewis, Amy Wilson, Chasity Wilson and Sean Smith

Ashley Rossy, Hannah Sawyer, Lisa Dutton, Christy Bledsoe and Tracie Sweat

IS THERE A MOTTO WHICH DRIVES YOU EVERY DAY?

Our corporate motto “live your legacy” is something we foster when interacting within the company and when working with clients. To us, it is about being intentional in the present to make an impact for someone else after we’re gone. This is a great guiding principle in all that we do, and we are honored that clients retain us to establish the same for them.

PLEASE SHARE WHAT YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT HELPING YOUR CUSTOMERS OR CLIENTS.

Providing peace of mind. When the dust settles, that’s what we all want. Especially when it comes to large financial decisions such as retirement and estate planning.

HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN A COMPETITIVE EDGE?

We all want great service and responsiveness, but that seems to be more and more rare in this day and age. We are in a relationship business, and consistently doing the small things well is my mission day in and day out.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT WORKING WITH YOU?

I hope our clients say they can feel the local touch and commitment. We are headquartered in Mobile, and all of our owners actively work at the firm. I hope the boutique service we provide stands apart from the bigger national names in the industry.

Photo credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room

Photogra phy

Photo credit: Chad Riley Photography

OF WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENT IN YOUR INDUSTRY ARE YOU PROUDEST?

Twenty-four years ago, I began my journey in the banking industry by answering calls in a bank’s call center. Through hard work and dedication, I advanced into different roles, ultimately assuming my current role as the Coastal Region President of West Alabama Bank. Among the many milestones of my career, the successful expansion of West Alabama Bank’s presence into Baldwin County, Alabama, stands out as particularly significant. This accomplishment was realized through the strategic launch of our Fairhope banking center, marking a pivotal moment not only in my career but also in our bank’s growth trajectory. It reaffirms our commitment to serving our communities with excellence and integrity.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR CLIENTS SAY ABOUT WORKING WITH YOU AND YOUR TEAM?

I hope they say that working with me and my banking team was a seamless and enjoyable experience. Our goal is for customers to feel that we provided excellent service, tailored solutions to meet their specific needs, and went above and beyond to exceed their expectations. Most importantly, I hope they see us as trustworthy, reliable, and genuinely invested in their financial success. Ultimately, I want them to view us not just as their bankers, but as trusted partners in their financial journey.

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE FOR YOUR CLIENTS?

West Alabama Bank is a full-service community bank that is a one-stop financial solution for individuals and businesses within the community. We offer an extensive suite of financial services and products including personal deposit accounts, consumer loans, mortgages, business deposit accounts, business loans, online and mobile banking and more. We provide personalized service, local decision-making, and a commitment to community development.

WHY DO YOU LOVE WORKING IN YOUR INDUSTRY?

Being part of the banking industry affords me the privilege of directly impacting the lives of individuals in my community by helping them achieve their financial goals. Whether it’s supporting the growth of a business, purchasing a home, or saving for retirement, the relationships I have developed over time are priceless.

HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN A COMPETITIVE EDGE?

In a market where many banks offer similar products, what truly sets us apart at West Alabama Bank is our commitment to building strong relationships built on trust and reliability.

I’m fortunate to work alongside a remarkable team that shares our customer-centric values. We remain flexible and responsive to industry changes and the evolving needs of our clients, ensuring we consistently provide exceptional service.

Photo credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

MaryAlice goes above and beyond to ensure her clients always get exactly what they need to ensure their business will succeed. With her personalized approach and tireless dedication, she navigates challenges effortlessly, always striving to exceed expectations and deliver maximum results.

Terry and Jennifer

Eady

Owner of Hot Wheels Skate Center

Danny and I first met MaryAlice through a mutual friend at a business after hours event twelve years ago. Since then, we’ve had the pleasure of working with her for both our personal and business banking needs. Over the years, we’ve had numerous transactions with her. MaryAlice’s expertise in the banking industry, coupled with her exceptional customer service, has made every interaction with West Alabama Bank a positive experience for us. We truly value her dedication and professionalism.

Danny and Emily Beebe

Owners of Gulf Coast Manufacturing and Gulf Coast Events & Rentals

I’ve worked with MaryAlice for well over a decade, and she has never failed to deliver for our organization. She will go to any lengths for her customer and truly cares on a personal level. In a day and age where relationship banking seems to be a thing of the past, you can count on MaryAlice to do exactly what she says. I couldn’t have asked for a better banker or friend to work (and have a lot of fun) alongside as our business has grown and evolved over the years.

Nathan Cox

Chairman of 68 Ventures

Mary Alice Neyhart

ST. JAMES SCHOOL ART SHOW

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY MCCRORY, BLUE ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

St. James Episcopal School hosted an art showcase that allowed everyone to enjoy art that the school’s students have created throughout the year. The event featured a silent auction, a performance by Studio B Dance and music by Chase Starring.

World’s best care for Louisiana’s kids

Children’s Hospital New Orleans is proud to be the only children’s hospital in Louisiana and the Gulf South ranked by Newsweek’s Best Specialized Hospitals in the World for Pediatrics, three years in a row! This ranking reflects our continued commitment to provide the best possible care for kids right here in Louisiana! Find a provider today at chnola.org.

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE FOR YOUR CLIENTS?

At SmartBank, we are committed to creating a better bank, and we work hard to capitalize on opportunities that build value for our clients. SmartBank is a full-service community bank with a wide offering of deposit products and a common sense approach to business lending. When it comes to getting a home mortgage, SmartBank has several options. Our team will help you decide which products work best for your situation, to make your experience as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHY IS THE EASTERN SHORE SUCH A SPECIAL PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK.

The Eastern Shore is special because of its scenic beauty, waterfront lifestyle, and thriving communities. It offers a unique blend of natural landscapes, recreational opportunities, and a strong sense of community, making it an ideal place to live and work.

HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN A COMPETITIVE EDGE?

Our local SmartBank team has over 90 years of experience working in banking. Our tenure in the industry gives us an advantage over our competition. We enjoy providing excellent service and becoming trusted financial advisors for our clients.

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN YOUR INDUSTRY HAVE BEEN THE MOST REWARDING?

Being a great community bank also means being a big part of the communities we serve. We recognize the importance of corporate social responsibility and its impact on our communities. Year-after-year we give back and make a positive difference through sponsoring events, volunteering, and serving on Boards for local charities.

Ed Hammele Coastal Division Market Leader

Traci Parker Residential Lender

Jake Defee Senior Vice President

Photo credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room

Photogra phy

WHAT SERVICES DO YOU PROVIDE FOR YOUR CLIENTS?

We specialize in providing clients with a wide array of financial solutions including retirement planning, investment strategies, insurance, college savings plans, and estate planning. We take as much time as is needed with each client to plan and create custom solutions for them and their family based on their objectives and goals.

WHAT ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN YOUR INDUSTRY HAVE BEEN THE MOST REWARDING?

We are thankful that over 620 families have allowed us to help them with their financial needs. Thomas was recently named to the 2024 Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors List. Amanda is in the process of obtaining her Certified Financial Planner designation and hopes to have this completed by 2025.

IN YOUR OPINION, WHY IS THE EASTERN SHORE SUCH A SPECIAL PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK?

The Eastern Shore is where we choose to live, work, and raise our family because we love being

Photo credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

MOM

Lauren Lanefski

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

As the CFO at the Hope Farm in Fairhope, Lauren Lanefski is part of a team whose sole focus is creating a space for guests to gather and experience something that will become a memory. Events and milestones happen within its walls and on its grounds—and, much the same way, as a wife and mother, Lanefski is part of a team whose focus is creating an environment for her children to experience their own milestones and thrive into adulthood.

Naturally, there is a balance to be struck between the two halves of Lanefski’s life. “Being a working mom is one of the things that I thank the Lord for every single day,” she says. “My role at the Hope Farm is extremely flexible, and I work from home majority of the time. Serving in a role with this type of flexibility not only allows me to provide for my family financially while still moving forward down my career path, but—most importantly—it also affords me the ability to spend a great deal of time with my kids. The fact that the flexibility of my work allows me to be with them in ways that a traditional working parent would not be able to is extremely rewarding not only for myself, but for my kids, as well.”

Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

Achieving a certain work-life balance is something that Lanefski takes great pride in. “I feel strongly that my priorities are in line, which allows me to be present,” she notes. “As much as I love the fulfillment I get from working, my greatest joy is being a mom. When I’m with my kids, they are my priority. Sometimes that means early mornings or late nights to ensure that all my responsibilities for work are handled, but those are sacrifices I am more than willing to make to allow myself to be present with my kids when I’m with them. Being present is so incredibly important to all the roles in which I serve: mom, wife, businesswoman…the list goes on. I want those around me to know they have my full attention when I am with them.

“It’s important to me that my kids remember how I prioritized being present with them,” she goes on. “I want them to look back and see me as the mom who was on the floor playing, building volcanoes out of Play-Doh, chasing them around outside, baking with them—not just sometimes, but every day. They’ve taught me patience, kindness, and how to let things go. Each day, I experience teachable moments with them, teachable moments where they are teaching me! It’s truly a beautiful thing that I am very thankful for. They’ve helped shaped me into a better, stronger, more confident version of myself.”

Disco night at Fairhope West Elementary was a groovy time for all. The evening activities included a DJ, food trucks, a 360 photo booth, and inflatables. All those in costume were entered to win prizes. The event was organized by the Fairhope West Parent-Teacher Partnership.

Photos by Ruili Cai

Sage, Alexi and Rowan Felty

Emma Davis, Ford Macklem and Abby Nelson

Ashley and Albright Greer

Madisyn Price and Edie Clark

Kathryn Kier and Molly Cameron

Belle Riley, Emma Jane Thompson, Terri Thompson and Harper Ann Long

Khloe Milam and Cece Small

Tanner Lynch and Amariana Gardner

Matthew Bishop and Sloane Stewart

Chase, Grayson, Chelsea and Lilah Dunning

SHORE

Nicole White, Holly Whitehead and Annie Dixon

Addison Greer, Nina Cullen and Kate Frlan

Nora Patterson, Betsy Frater, Chandler Rhodes and Brooklyn Dixon

McKenna Cunningham, Jillian Kelley and Annalise Johnson

SPRING COUPLES EVENT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUILI CAI

Members of Eastern Shore Medical Alliance gathered for a Spring Couples Event. ESMA brings together physician (MD/DO) spouses and families throughout Baldwin County to support local needs and each other. Members of ESMA enjoy several social events throughout the year as well as many opportunities to serve our local community.

Come meet our office dog, Easy!

Ser ving Both Sides of the Bay

Fairhope | Mobile

251.270.3242

66 Portico Street, Fairhope AL 36532 11 N Water Street, Suite 16290, Mobile, AL, 36602 advisor.morganstanley.com/the-radcliff-schatzman-group

Is there something, such as a motto or bit of philosophy, which drives your team each day?

Work harder than most and success is inevitable. Every client relationship starts and ends with a plan that removes emotion from decision making. Financial emotions are the root of most financial mistakes. Remove the financial emotion and remove most financial mistakes.

Please share what you enjoy most about helping your customers or clients.

Whether it is the ability to retire when they want while maintaining a level of income they desire or seeing a grandchild with the financial ability to attend their college of choice, there is nothing more satisfying that watching a client’s financial goals come to fruition.

In your opinion, why is the Eastern Shore such a special place to live and work?

Even though this area is among the fastest growing, it maintains a small-town charm and friendliness. When we meet someone on the street, we still wave and say hello – whether we know you or not! It is hard to put into words, but you just feel good here. Maybe it’s the beauty of the bay and the flowers or maybe it’s the general happiness of the people that live here. It just feels good on the Eastern Shore.

BAYSHORE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL GOLF CLASSIC

Golfers gathered at Rock Creek Golf Club in support of the inaugural fundraising golf tournament for Bayshore Christian School. Proceeds will support the current phase of the Academic Building & Infrastructure, which will host 264 students, grades 7th – 12th in a 28,000 square foot facility for academics, athletics, worship, and fine arts beginning with the 2024-2025 school year.

Master Joe's has been the go-to for sushi lovers from all over South Alabama since 2009. With the addition of Shanghai Cottage and Wok by d’Bay, Master Joe’s Restaurant Group has options to please any palate.

Traditional and Americanized Sushi Hibachi, Traditional Chinese Cuisine Poke Bowls and more...

Each restaurant has a full bar offering hand-crafted cocktails, beer, wine, and hot and cold sake.

uests enjoy stunning views no matter which vacation rental they choose, plus access to a variety of amenities including smart TVs, complimentary high-speed internet throughout the property, walk-in showers, garden tubs, and a courtyard with a pergola and fire pit.

• Fully remodeled Bayview Estate

• Two-story home at the back of the property

• Bungalows and individual units

• Property accommodates up to 45 guests

Chef, Master Joe

BALD EAGLE BASH

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY MCCRORY, BLUE ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

The Bald Eagle Bash, the Alabama Gulf Coast’s Party for Preservation, is the signature annual fundraiser for South Alabama Land Trust. The event which is held at Tonsmeire Weeks Bay Resource Center has earned a reputation for delivering great food, great music, and a great time, all on the edges of beautiful Weeks Bay. The “Bash” includes fresh Gulf shrimp prepared by the area’s best chefs and restaurants, a low country shrimp boil, delectable desserts by area bakers, beer from Fairhope Brewing Company and Braided River Brewing Company and a great selection of wine.

CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT

The cornhole tournament organized by the Young Professionals of the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce was a great opportunity to network while enjoying food, drinks, and a good time. The event, hosted by JBT Power, will benefit the ESCOC Foundation Youth Programs, Youth Leadership and STEP (Student Training and Exploration Program).

Michael Pugh, Deborah Schmitt and Jason Schmitt

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Chandler Glass, Jesse Cooke and Taylor Elmore

Gabriel Puello, Joshua Brown and Joanna Almond

Tracy Patigayon and Ben Wood

Garrett Hughes and Jessica Walker

Jess Bare and Heather Paulk

Julie Penn and Liz Thomson

Victoria Krebs and Chase Scott

Stephanie Messinger and Michelle Murrill

Kaitlyn, Matthew, and Charlie Hannaman

BILL THOMPSON

After a successful career in aerospace engineering, Bill Thompson returned to the shores of Mobile Bay with his wife Gail and trusty Rhodesian Ridgeback, Mali, to pursue his interest in painting. He recalls summers camping on sand bars on the beautiful Alabama River and playing on the sugar white sands of Gulf Shores. His fascination with the interplay of shimmering light on the water and the shadows cast by the old Cypress trees, the beauty of the light and color from both a scientific and artistic aspect, were a major inspiration when he began applying paint to canvas.

Bill is mostly self taught by studying the methods and techniques of the Masters, both old and new. He considers his work somewhere between impressionism and expressionism. Rather than duplicating the subject on canvas, he seeks to capture the essence of the subject and to evoke an emotional response. Working in both oil and acrylic, he considers himself to be primarily a palette knife painter, but he also uses brushes, fingers, paper towels, twigs, and found objects.

Bill is eternally grateful for the support of his students and collectors including Lucy Buffett, Jo Bonner, Chef Robert Bruce of Commander's Place, and the Mobile Museum of Art. His work can be seen at Gallery by the Bay in Fairhope and Ashland Gallery in Mobile. To learn more about Bill's art and career, please visit wdthompsonart.com.

For painting demonstrations and tips follow @wdtpaints on YouTube

and the band

ARTICLE BY LIESEL SCHMIDT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS BRYANT

“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.”

– Victor Hugo, French Romantic writer and politician, 1802-1885

While music has changed with the influences of technology and time, it is still as relevant, poignant, and expressive as it has always been. It is an outlet for creativity, pain, happiness, and so many other emotions, and it teaches discipline, patience, and timing. It speaks for so many, uniting them across race, creed, economic background, and gender, putting thought and expression into something impalpable yet so very real.

It was that very thing that captured Mobile native Jacob Hall’s soul, and, coming from a musical family, the gifted young man’s passion was poured into every instrument he could get his hands on. The multi-instrumentalist and virtuosic musician became a staple of the Gulf Coast music scene as a teenager and was widely considered to be “the best musician to come out of Mobile,” receiving awards including Lagniappe’s Nappie Award for Best Keyboardist in 2018, 2019, and 2021.

As talented as he was, Hall’s parents couldn’t afford to pay his band fees his junior year of high school. Having seen his potential, his band teacher paid the fees so that Hall could continue pursuing his love for music. By the end of his time at Baker High School, he had played in the marching band, jazz band, and color guard band and would gladly play anytime he was asked.

Hall’s adeptness with multiple instruments can be heard in his guitar work on Ryan Dyer’s 2018 release “Cowgirl,” his keyboard prowess on the 2017 debut discs released by Paw Paw’s Medicine Cabinet. He was also a member of Justin Jeansonne and the Dixie Gentlemen and played with such artists and bands as The Red Clay Strays, Abe Partridge, Jake Burford and Johnny Hayes, in addition to playing with his father for many years.

While the music stopped for Hall at the age of 23, his incredible talent and his memory has inspired the creation of a grant that affords other aspiring musicians the opportunity to achieve their potential. Created in 2021, the Jacob Hall Memorial Music Grant was established by Live at Five, which donates a portion of profits from their shows to fund the grant, which, in turn, provides grantees money for such needs as instruments, equipment, music lessons, music camps or recitals, tuition for music majors and music books.

“The grant is available to musicians of all ages from the greater

BEST OF THE BAY

Best of the Bay presented by Daphne Spanish-Fort Kiwanis brought together some of the best amateur and professional chefs in Baldwin County for an exciting cook off at Daphne Civic Center. The event raised funds for the children of our community, and in addition to great food, included a split the pot raffle, a live auction with Sheriff Huey “Hoss” Mack and live music.

Pete Blohme, Ava Davidson, Nick Dimario and Emma Catherine Turner

Photos by Ruili Cai

Traci Vittitow and Anne Frost Kennedy

Beth Geiger, Aubie and Terry and Barbara Hudson

Gini Napper and Mary Allen Napper

Terri Feather Cole and Ed Juju Lessard

Thomas Cost and Lene Gunvaldjord

Mark Bentz and Holly Higgins

Lyndsey and Trey Brannon

Hanna Hunt and Aubie

Hilary Pham and John Tran

Andrea Ramey, Officer Jessica Orso, Officer Todd Gresham and Kenny King

Benjie Hughes and Thom Lott

Marcus Allgood and John Williams

Johnelle Sparks and Loretta Ervin

Oak Hollow Farm was the perfect backdrop for Under the Stars, Baldwin County Child Advocacy Center’s signature fundraising event. Attendees enjoyed food, music, silent and live auctions, and more while helping to provide safety, healing, and justice for child abuse victims.

Photos by Ruili Cai

Ian and Leigh Mohorn

Lane and Michelle Toler

Kay Spence and Bill Marshall

Frank Trapasso and Taylor Aerne

Jesse Hyatt and Callie Roley

Marques and Meredith Ivy, Sarah and Deon Gatson

Mike and Stephanie Hale

Vicki and Paul Revere

Jennie Baggett and Trae Corte

Rob and Ashley Andrews

Bonnie Honda, Kaylea Strain, Lee Mitchell, Nikki Whitaker and Gayle Merrill

Lexi Devine, Traci Parker, Kristina Potter and Missha Waldrip

I loved working with the team at Coastal Stone & Cabinetry. It was the easiest part of building our house. They provided all of the kitchen cabinetry, vanities, countertops, flooring and tile patterns, and it looks fabulous. One stop shop! I would definitely recommend Coastal Stone & Cabinetry for all of your needs.

-Michele Norton, Homeowner

ON THE BAY

LIESEL SCHMIDT | PHOTOGRAPHY

We have been asked several times, ‘What part of the home did you remodel?’ shares Israel Crocker of Crocker & Smith Custom Builders. “This is a testimony to the attention paid to the details of the iconic area in which this home is located. The home is completely new, but when you see the landscaping, architecture, and the way the home rests between old live oaks, you would assume that it has been there for many decades.”

JON

Finished in February of 2024, the home was designed by Historical Concepts of New York and Atlanta and built by Crocker & Smith Custom Builders. It boasts 24 rooms in its one and

a half stories, and the main house is 6227 square feet. The home is attached to a garage by a breezeway. The architectural feel is of the classic bay house, and the exterior is homogenous with the boardwalk south of the nearby Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa.

The interior, designed by Heather Chadduck of HCID in Birmingham, brings the exterior aesthetic within its many spaces, with attention to every detail. The radial staircase and the faux finish of painting on the floor in the entry add to the nostalgia of the home. Also of note are the heart pine walls and cabinetry of the library, the hidden door of the powder room, and an elegant Bay sitting room.

The large, open spaces of the family room share a passthrough serving bar into the kitchen.

STORY BY

BY:

JEFFRESS, DEEP SOUTH FOCUS PHOTOGRAPHY & CINDY MCCRORY, BLUE ROOM PHOTOGRAPHY

The team at Stone Gallery worked with the designer and homeowners to select natural stone surfaces befitting the home. Marine Black Soapstone was used on the perimeter surfaces of the kitchen, and the center island countertops were created of Calacatta Oro Honed. The master bathroom boasts Calcutta Oro. The library and living room fireplaces also showcase beautiful natural stone materials.

A unique and favorite room in the home known as “The Perch” overlooks the entry to the property and the incredible landscaping design created by Joe Comer of Espalier Landscape Architecture.

Lending the home a feeling of openness, all downstairs ceiling heights are 12 feet. Throughout the home, the hardwood flooring is antiqued, wide plank, reclaimed oak from Tennessee buffed in an oil finish. The wood trim was designed and made specifically for this home.

A unique and favorite room in the home known as “The Perch” overlooks the entry to the property and the incredible landscaping design created by Joe Comer of Espalier Landscape Architecture.

Outside, a large porch that affords plenty of room for entertaining faces the Bay and boardwalk. The impressive 32-foot staircase stays true to the historical feel of the bay house exterior. An existing house was moved to the back of the property, and it now serves as the guest house.

The homeowners enjoy that each room is unique yet flows beautifully into the next. They chose the location of the home 12 years ago. They grew up spending their summers in Point Clear and wanted their children to do the same. After enjoying their first Christmas and Easter in this beautiful home, they look forward to many more.

BUILDER : Crocker & Smith Custom Builders

ARCHITECTURE & PLANNING: Historical Concepts, Atlanta and New York

INTERIOR DESIGN: Heather Chadduck Interiors & Textiles

LANDSCAPE DESIGN: Espalier Landscape Architecture

NATURAL STONE SURFACES: Stone Gallery

CARPENTRY: Crocker Construction and Crocker Trim

CABINETRY: CDC Woodworking Hinson & Co

TILE AND WOOD FLOORING: Advanced Flooring Technologies

HANDMADE PAVERS: Acme Brick Company

PAINTING: Payne Quality Painting LLC

At its 2024 “Big Reveal” at Oak Hollow Farm, Impact 100 Baldwin County announced they will award five $103,000 grants in the fall to nonprofits serving Baldwin County. Totaling $515,000, these grants will fund programs that make a difference in the quality of life for residents of this region. Impact 100 Baldwin County made history this membership year with over 510 total members, which includes a record-breaking number of 99 new members.

Aeana Carpenter and Krissy Shamburger

Betty Huff and Rhonda Morris

Barbara Pryor and Nancye Wolfe

Lynnette Muleady and Johnna Kolaks

Sally Banta and Becky Humphries

Kelly Reynolds, Amanda Montz and Traci Parker

Pamela Denham and Candace Jennings

Lucy Smith and Kathryn Knight-Miller

Annette Sebastian and Bailey Stitt

Utopia Cassady and Tonya Gollotte

Photos by Andrew Crumpton

Savan Wilson and Anne Brauneis

Tabitha Bond and Brenda Bledsoe

Dru Burgess and Nancy Bush

Sally Boom & Em Johnson

Traci Vittitow, Martina Forsch and Rachel Bailey

Phyllis French and Rhonda Morris

Lisa Sibal and Kim Gibson

Margaret Neely and Susan Samry

Jean Ray, Cheryl Josephson, Lucy Smith and Barbara Pryor

Renee Fenn, Anne Irvine and Kate Irvine

Maggie Hakmiller, Barbara Paul, Sue Alford and Teresa Lipscomb

Shannon Spinks, Meg McGovern and Lucia Smith

Nouna Schacher and Lisa Box

Dee Ann Reed and Carrie Catrett Dawn Gregerson and Beverly Kennedy

Flourish Community Center hosted a lovely afternoon at the Historic Malbis Nursery during which guests enjoyed a high tea party including tea, a mimosa bar, and sweet & savory treats. The Petaler from Flower Truck also conducted a flower arranging workshop. 100% of the profits will support the mission of the organization, equipping teen girls to flourish in all areas of life.

Velma Franco and Arcelia Miller

Brinkley Hutchings, Jess Tolbert and Mary Margaret Cartmill

Alissia Howell and Jayda Fisher

Kaitlin Daves and Caroline Clark

Katie Ricciardone, Allison Hunter and Hannah Wagner

Amanda Baker, Megan Fogarty, Maddie Walker, Natalie Wynn, Lauren Hoffman, Amie Martin and Allie Ward

Lauren and Della Hoffman

Leslie Castillo and Sarah Chandler

Cindy Zebryk and Dena Pittman

Stephanie Robinson and Janie Widemire

Photos by Ruili Cai

Von Larson, Grace Campbell, Amber Forbes and Niki Coker

Suzanne Francis, Shanda Lyons, Aubri Lyons and Darleen Singley

Camille, Harper, Margie and Sophie Walters

Aubri Lyons, Shanda Lyons and Brooke Noles

Photo Credit: Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

HAITIAN OCCASION

Guests of the Haitian Occasion hosted by Konbit Haiti joined together for a night of impact and fun at Local Appetite Growers in Silverhill. The event featured a Haitian-inspired chef prepared meal, live music, and a live charity auction. Konbit Haiti helps communities prevent and recover from disaster by keeping families together, teaching business and leadership development and implementing clean water projects.

Photos by Ruili Cai

Hillary Ishii, Susan Godwin and Darby Callicut

Natalie Wynn, Allie Ward and Maddie Walker

Clelie Cyrius and Stephanie Robinson

Shannon Russell and Sally Wilson

Angel Coleman and Ryan Schmidt

Sarah Grube, Dr. Abbie Parrish, Haley Kern and Asia Schnoes

Kristy Whitaker and Gill Hart

Jack and Maddie Walker

Jennifer King and Rodney Lee Jr

Chelsea Ellis and Kelsey Davis

Janie Widemire, Steph Robinson and Natalie Wynn

Ryan Robinson and Renee Brown

Jan Kaempfer, Patrick Brindle, Erin Kaempfer and Eleanor Brindle

John and Gill Hart, Mark and Ashley Hammond, Frank and Kristina Brown

Leana, Josiah and Ryla Zimmerman

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT

Like most of us who are old enough to have lived through the day, Elizabeth Broyles remembers 9/11 vividly. And while many were inspired to swear an oath to serve their country, Broyles was inspired to service of a different kind: K-9 Search and Rescue.

“It was the largest gathering of Search K-9’s in the history of the US,” Broyles recalls. “When I saw how they worked tirelessly for days on end, I knew I wanted to do something like that. “

In 2014, she made that passion a reality by beginning her work with dogs. Broyles was certified with K-9 Maggie, a black Labrador, in 2015, and worked with her for the next four years. In 2019, Broyles was certified with K-9 Dixie and in 2020 with K-9 Daisy— both bloodhounds, both certified in tracking, bone, article, and evidence through the Bay County Sheriff’s Department.

Broyles herself is an independent Search and Rescue K-9 handler and is not associated with any team or

a member of law enforcement, though both she and her K-9s have certifications and training needed to assist law enforcement. As a team, they assist state and local law enforcement as well as the Alabama Bureau of Investigations (ABI) and FBI. She and her K-9s have assisted law enforcement in Texas, Mississippi, Louisiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, Florida, and throughout northern Alabama.

“This work is important to me not only because it is something I am passionate about but also because it allows this amazing breed of dog to do what they were born to do,” says Broyles, whose full-time job is serving as a lab technician at the Southern Cancer Center in Foley. “Their God-given talent can be lifesaving, and it would be such a waste not to use these K-9s to help others. When dealing with a family’s worst nightmare, you should use every tool in the box. Bloodhounds can be used to track a missing person—living or deceased— they can track a car, work in any terrain, track through water, they can pick up tracks three or four weeks old, give direction of travel and find evidence as well as being able to tell you where not look. Bloodhounds are so precise that they are the only breed whose evidence is admissible in court of law.”

Broyles is not compensated for any of her search and rescue work, personally donating her time and selffinancing her own travel, certifications, K-9 care, vehicle maintenance, gear, and K-9 seminar trainings.

“The biggest challenge I face is when the search is over— regardless of the outcome—and feeling like I haven’t done enough,” says Broyles. “When you leave a search, you must trust that you have done enough and that anything the K-9s have done will be of use in a criminal case and bring closure to a family.”

Savor &

Recipe courtesy of @masonhillsfarm masonhillsfarm.com

ITALIAN BRACIOLE

INGREDIENTS

:

2 1/2 lbs Mason Hills Farm ribeye steak

3-4 cloves garlic

1 small shallot

2 tbsp fresh parsley

1 tsp basil

2 tbsp olive oil

4 ounces thinly sliced prosciutto

4 ounces thinly sliced provolone cheese

salt and pepper to taste

Combine garlic, shallot, parsley, basil, and olive oil in a small bowl. Butterfly and pound the Mason Hills Farm ribeye steak into 2 thin rectangles. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the surface of the steak. Place the prosciutto and provolone cheese evenly over the steak, leaving a one-inch border along the top edge. Roll the steak into a tight log, starting from the bottom edge and moving towards the top. Place it seam-side down on a cutting board. Secure the steak roll with kitchen twine, tying it at one-inch intervals. Use a sharp knife to slice the roll between the twine into 1-inch-thick pinwheels. Season with salt and black pepper. Skewer each pinwheel with a toothpick. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Brown the pinwheels in a preheated cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes on each side. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the steak reaches the desired doneness. Remove from the oven, tent with aluminum foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Remove the twine and toothpicks before serving the delicious Mason Hills Farm Italian with your favorite sides.

As you prepare this recipe in your kitchen, you are not just creating a delicious mealyou are continuing the journey that started right here on Mason Hills Farm. The flavors and quality of each ingredient reflect the care and attention that goes into every aspect of our farm-to-table process.

BEEF FROM MASON HILLS FARM

AVAILABLE AT FAIRHOPE PIGGLY WIGGLY

JOEY MASON

Bi rdies for Ba r ron is an an nual gol f tou r namen t to honor the life and leg acy of Barron Tyler Welch In addition to the annual golf tour nament at Rock Creek Golf Club, the weekend included a Celebration Dinner and Silent Auction. Guests enjoyed good food, live music and visiting with friends while raising money to bring awareness to Treacher Collins Syndrome

Kerrie Benson, Brooke Crosley and Rebekah Bell

Photos by Ruili Cai

Parker, Stephanie, Cooper and Bob Chavis

Shelia Butts, Sherrie Greene, Tom, Macston and Makayla Butts

Mariet and Samuel Kennedy

Andy and Alisa Jones

Tyler Welch and Frances Myers

Alexis Thexton and Cannon Garner

Lila Baynes, Robert Evans and Kinzie Evans

Taylor Lewis and Lauren Milligan

KJ and John Ezra Minniefield

Penny and Bobby Kemper

Porter, Lauren and Tyler Welch

Peter and Amy Bach

Trevor McKinney and Ken Sinclair

Sean and Michelle Walker

Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore held its first annual Springo Bingo at Fairhope Brewing Company. Guests had the opportunity to win fun prizes while supporting the mission of the organization, making a real difference in the lives of the children in our community.

Kelly Carlquist, Anne Shields, Molly Hamilton and Becca Tully

Photos by Ruili Cai

Teresa Lipscomb, Maggie Hakmiller and Barbara Paul Stephanie Powe, Leah Smith and Camille Hale

Tommy and Megan Munsey

Olivia Waldrop and Brittani Lee

Ryan and Carla Coleman

Leigh Ann Walker and Jennifer Gordon

Lee and Olivia Waldrop

Kristin Baxter, Haley Elkins and Libba Wilkes

Megan and Mickey Smith

Top Physicians Coming in August

Get to know the Eastern Shore’s Top Physicians and learn more about the many different practices that serve our area, along with introductions to the newest Physicians in our community.

Annie and Jeff Dixon Matt and Jamie Haddan

Amy Ananth and Teresa Lipscomb

Ashley and Phillip Greer

TownsendAnne Tyler &

BY LIESEL SCHMIDT PHOTOGRAPHY BY: EMILY SONGER PHOTOGRAPHY

Aswell-meaning as they may be, friend “fixups” don’t always pan out…but that was not the case for Anne Townsend Froemming and Tyler Love when they met in 2019 after months of their friends trying to make a meeting happen. “We both went to meet some mutual friends at a brewery in Birmingham,” says Anne Townsend. “Our friends pulled up two chairs at a table and made us sit next to each other. While all eyes were on us, I felt like conversation would be awkward and we would never go on an actual date. Boy, was I wrong. Within a few days of meeting, we went on our first date.”

Years passed, and the couple knew that theirs was a story meant to end with forever. “Tyler had planned a big family trip for both our families out to Oregon, and he, along with our party planner extraordinaire, Alexis, planned an amazing winery tour in Willamette Valley,” Anne Townsend recalls. “We boarded a big party bus and set out for the first winery. Tyler was pouring buckets of sweat the entire time, but I assumed he was hot like always. After finally making it, we sat for a delicious wine tasting and appetizers at the beautiful Stoller Winery. Harrison, Tyler’s twin brother, suggested we head outside for a family photo. After turning around to see that no one else followed, I quickly realized what was about to happen. Tyler dropped to one knee and said something beautiful—though I can’t remember because I think I blacked out from shock—followed by, ‘Will you marry me?’”

A few months later, Anne Townsend’s words to Tyler were much more eloquent than the “Uh huh” that she gave as a response to his proposal, when she met him at the altar on June 24, 2023, wearing a strapless gown with a double lace overlay to exchange vows. Surrounded by their loved ones, the couple were pronounced married at The Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa before joining their guests for an onsite reception.

There were, of course, some very memorable moments: “Wheelbarrow dance walks, handstands on stage, my cousin tearing it up with a scooter on the dance floor…We even had a couple wedding crashers!” Anne Townsend says with a laugh.

The party commenced with dining, dancing and—of course—cake. Created by Couture Cakes, the bride’s cake boasted three tiers of the bakery’s signature flavor sponge, with buttercream icing with strawberries, enrobed in white and adorned with green leaves and white flowers. As a nod to his time playing football for the University of Alabama and his membership on two National Championship teams, Tyler’s groom’s cake was made of chocolate sponge, fashioned to look like Nick Saban’s famous straw hat and an Alabama football helmet.

After being sent off to start their life as newlyweds, Anne Townsend and Tyler had their honeymoon in Portugal to look forward to.

“We delayed until September, which was a great time to be there,” says Anne Townsend. Home now in Birmingham, the couple are happy for those two chairs in that brewery where everything changed forever.

WEDDING

Photos by: Emily Songer Photography

Smile and the World Smiles Back

A dazzling, healthy smile has many benefits; it instills confidence, allows you to enjoy the food and drinks you love and enhances your appearance.

Nobody understands this better than Doctor Sweeney and Doctor McEvoy – We are more than your neighborhood dentist – we’re friends, parents, neighbors and active members of our community, just like you!

We are a full-service family dentistry practice. We offer the latest cosmetic dentistry treatments to enhance your smile. For the children and elderly adults in your family, we offer pediatric and geriatric dental care. All of your needs can be met at our office, including:

Preventative Care • Zoom! Teeth Whitening Oral Cancer Screening • Dental Implants NOW OFFERING BOTOX!

Your Eastern Shore Dentists Delivering Exceptional Dental Care

We welcome the opportunity to make the Eastern Shore a better place by instilling confidence, pride and excellent oral hygiene habits in patients like you. Schedule an appointment now to discover the what makes us different.

by Ruili Cai

A sold-out crowd of 3000 people packed the Halstead Amphitheater for the first Live at 5 of the year which featured Red Clay Strays, the River Dan Band, and Brooke Brown. All ages are welcome at this exciting concert series supporting the Jacob Hall Memorial Music Grant which provides access to the resources musicians need to achieve their full potential.

Photos

Erica McDonald, Cammy Petersen and Cappi Sully

Shelly Ballard and Laura Wintzell

Chesley Allegri and Melinda Murphy

Lena Cole Speir and Susan Speir

Brian and Brittani Lee

Holly Saliski, Morgan Cooper and Amy Sanders

Kayla and Ziggy Bray

Zoe and Anna Labruzzo

Dakota Cochran and Tristen Lewis

Maggie and Danielle Ingram

SOCIAL EASTERN SHORE

Treatment As

Unique As You Are

Each patient is different. We’ll work to find the specific course of treatment that’s best for you. We want our patients to feel confident treating their varicose veins.

Our process is simple — it starts with an online screening or you can give us a call.

Lena Cole Speir, Chloe Dasinger, Sarah Grace Penry and Tricia Dewberry

Lawson Baldwin, Emmie Freeman and Mazie Jordan

by Ruili Cai

The Crawfish Derby is the annual fundraiser for the Barnwell Community Organization. The event included great food, great music, and a great time, all at the Lodge at Oak Hollow Farm.

Photos

Michael Holmes, Whitney Holmes and Brooke Butler Peyton Bishop, Shayne Higgins and Marissa Logan

Alley Griggers and Joey Leavitt

Taylor and Adleigh McKenzie

Katie Ricciardone and Bre Beier

Barb Scott, Jennifer Pizzotti and Becky Woodruff

Joel and Taylor Hicks

Brooke Butler and Veronica Bishop

Kellogg Cassity, Amy Duffy and Donna Dimartino

Mac and Claire Thomas