Social Mobile

From the Editor

Hello, Mobile!

The team at Social Magazine is excited to share the inaugural issue of Social Mobile with you!

We love showcasing the community’s events and the smiles on your neighbors’ faces. In this first look at what Social is all about, we’ve compiled a vibrant mix of great events from this year, along with highlights from Mardi Gras 2025.

Our editorial features spotlight the people and organizations that make Mobile a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.

At Social, we love what we do—sharing stories that inspire, celebrate, and connect the community. We hope this issue fills your heart with joy, just as creating it has filled ours.

Melinda McGhee Managing Editor Alabama

Photo by Stephen Savage

On the Cover: Rebecca Turner, Shelby Omainsky, Misty Whitehead and Jennifer Bexley

Cover

SOCIAL

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Publisher

David Renfro

Managing Editor Alabama

Melinda McGhee

Graphic Design

Lead Designer Chris Shenk

Kim Mesman

Brad Growden

Photography

Candice Brown

Ruili Cai

Cindy McCrory

Priscilla Santiago

Holly Savage

Stephen Savage

Wedding Photography

Ashleigh Donnelly Designs

Sales

Melinda McGhee | 251.767.9429

David Renfro | 731.499.1414

Distribution Manager

Mike Nelson

Social Mobile Magazine www.socialmobilemag.com

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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 Mobile 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 Mobile magazine are subject to the copyright of Social Mobile, but not limited thereto. Reproduction of any part of this magazine without prior written permission is prohibited.

SOCIAL

FAMILY OF BRANDS

Coming Soon

Beyond honoring traditions

Being local is about more than just an address. As your friends and neighbors, we live here, we work here, and we celebrate here. Those types of timehonored financial values might not be something you’d expect from a bank, but it’s what you can expect from us. Banking Beyond Expectation.

Curating the Legacy of Mobile’s Mardi Gras

Cart Blackwell

For over sixteen years, Cart Blackwell has called Mobile home—a place he cherishes for its natural beauty, rich traditions, deep history, and vibrant community. As the Curator of the Mobile Carnival Museum, he is dedicated to studying, preserving, and interpreting the city’s most beloved celebration: Mardi Gras.

Blackwell’s expertise lies in fine arts, architecture, painting, and sculpture, but his role at the Mobile Carnival Museum has expanded into textile and performing arts. “Carnival is a living art form,” he explains. “Parades unite all of the arts—literature in their themes, architecture in their floats, and performing arts in the bands, dance teams, and maskers. Even the city’s historic backdrop—its cast-iron galleries, towering steeples, and ancient oaks—becomes part of the spectacle.”

Photos by Stephen Savage

“Mobile’s Mardi Gras isn’t just the ‘Mother of Mystics’—it’s a deep well of artistic and historical innovation.”

As curator, Blackwell’s responsibilities extend beyond research and artifact preservation. He plays an active role in public relations, exhibition design, and historical interpretation, ensuring that every visitor to the Mobile Carnival Museum experiences the full scope of Carnival’s influence on the city. “Many people assume cultural institutions are static,” he says. “But I see them as ever-evolving, with endless opportunities to make history feel relevant and exciting.”

MARDI GRAS TRADITIONS AND TREASURES

Blackwell has uncovered countless fascinating details about Mobile’s Carnival history. His favorite discoveries often involve the city’s many ‘firsts’ and longest-standing traditions—not just in parading, but in fine arts, culinary culture, and performance. “Mobile’s Mardi Gras isn’t just the ‘Mother of Mystics’—it’s a deep well of artistic and historical innovation.”

Among the museum’s prized collections, Blackwell holds a special appreciation for eleven parade lithographs dating back to the 1880s. “Most visitors walk right past them,” he notes, “but drawing attention to those exquisite renderings always brings smiles. They’re nearly 130 years old, yet they showcase traditions still alive today.”

The museum’s unrivaled textile collection is another point of pride. “Pageantry in attire and ritual is central to Carnival,” he says. “Every historic era is reflected in the elaborate gowns, trains, and costumes of the festival. The fact that so many of these artistic pieces are designed and crafted locally is a testament to Mobile’s creative energy.”

MARDI GRAS ENDURING THROUGH HISTORY

One of the most ambitious exhibits Blackwell has overseen is “Carnival & War: Mardi Gras During Times of Armed Conflict.” This exhibit explores how Mobile’s Mardi Gras has responded to and, at times, influenced military campaigns, from the MexicanAmerican War to the Vietnam War. The display combines historic documents, military artifacts, fine paintings, textiles, uniforms, period accounts, and film footage, offering visitors a unique perspective on how history and celebration intertwine.

A TRADITION ROOTED IN ART AND COMMUNITY

For Blackwell, Mardi Gras is more than just a seasonal spectacle—it is the heartbeat of Mobile. “Carnival is the best of Mobile because it embraces and uplifts all facets of the Port City’s cultural life,” he says. “From the artistry of the floats to the culinary traditions of parade-side dining, every element of Mardi Gras reflects the creativity, history, and spirit of our city.”

Blackwell’s work extends beyond the museum. He serves on Mobile’s Architectural Review Board, the vestry of his church, and several regional and national professional boards. His writings frequently appear in both local and academic publications, reinforcing his dedication to historic preservation and interpretation.

Through his curatorial work, Cart Blackwell ensures that Mobile’s Mardi Gras story is preserved, celebrated, and continuously reimagined—a legacy that will inspire future generations of revelers and historians alike.

Held at Fort Whiting, Little Black Dress is a premier fundraising gala featuring a high-energy runway show with 40 local models styled by Dillard’s. Guests gathered for an unforgettable evening of fashion, fun, and community—all to support providing families with a comforting home away from home during their child’s hospital stay. This year, attendees were treated to a magical Night in Paris theme.

Photos by Holly Savage & Stephen Savage

Kathryn Pekrs and Krystal Howell

Ashley Criswell and Mary Mason Corbett

Paul Giardina and Kevin Calci

Sarah and Dylan McGhee, Zane McGhee

Debbie Browning, Roy Weeks, Allen Broom, Valerie Heinl and Mindy Kirk

LITTLE BLACK DRESS PHOTOS BY: STEPHEN SAVAGE

MISS IT! Little Black Dress 2026 is headed to Rio de Janeiro!

Locally owned and operated by Peter and Misty Whitehead

Caroline Robertson Legg lives in Orange Beach, Alabama, with her husband, Hollis, and their dog, Tulla. A graduate of the University of Alabama with a degree in Political Science, she began her career in New Orleans as a Major Account Executive for ADP. Now Vice President of Employee Benefits at HUB, Caroline excels in leadership and client relations. She serves on the board of Art for Heart and is a member of Impact 100 Baldwin County/Mobile. In her free time, she enjoys boating and traveling with her husband.

How do you help businesses navigate rising healthcare costs while maintaining competitive benefits packages?

We help businesses navigate rising healthcare costs through propriety cost containment solutions and contracts. We work one-on-one with our clients to ensure maximum benefits that meet the fiduciary needs of the organization.

How important is long-term planning when it comes to employee benefits, and how do you help businesses develop a 3–5 year benefits strategy?

Long-term planning is essential to the overall financial health and performance of the organization. We collaborate closely with executive leadership and HR to address challenges on the spot and establish achievable objectives for our long-term strategy.

What advice would you give to companies looking to improve their employee benefits program?

My advice would be to ask yourself one question: What is the cost to your organization as a result of inaction on improving your employee benefits program? Employee benefits are one of the main determining factors for retaining and recruiting employees.

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Photo by Cindy McCrory, Blue Room Photography

Tony and Katelanne Fadalla, Mary Frances and Elliot Clarke

Kriselyn Swalley, Brianne and Will Barnes

Jermaine Brown and Carolyn Croom

Christina Turner Rhodes, Gina Walcott and Katherine Allen

Christa Hilburn and Angela Dunn

LITTLE BLACK DRESS PHOTOS BY: STEPHEN SAVAGE

SmartBank is a full-service community bank offering tailored deposit products, business lending, and specialized mortgage solutions for professional and wealth clients. With decades of combined experience, the Mobile team delivers trusted expertise in commercial, private, and mortgage banking. Their intentional, relationshipfocused approach has earned a strong reputation for consistently exceeding client expectations.

How does your team go above and beyond to provide exceptional service to clients?

At SmartBank, we aim to create a “WOW” experience every time a client interacts with us. Banking is still deeply relational, and our team responds to every need with sincerity and urgency. In Mobile, we operate like family—our team was thoughtfully built to ensure clients always have a trusted banker and a supportive team ready to assist with anything that comes up throughout the day.

How does your team stay actively involved in the local community?

Our Mobile team takes great pride in giving back, actively supporting local nonprofits and strengthening connections within the community through meaningful service and engagement. Several team members also serve on local boards that support essential services across the region.

Photo by Stephen Savage

Traci Parker Residential Lender

Tina Coleman Private Banker

Ryan New Mobile Market President

LITTLE BLACK DRESS PHOTOS BY: STEPHEN SAVAGE

Matthew Mujica, Cathy Bair and Beth Holbert

Greg House, Tonyea Weber, Shaun Foster, Melissa Drummond, Brian Kirksey & Brian Drummond

Will Berrios, Dailey and Chris Wilkinson

Lauren Jackson, Megan Jackson, Stella Jackson and Ellen Jackson

GRAND OPENING

Photos by Ruili Cai

Legendary Marine at Waterway Village celebrated its Grand Opening with a week-long series of exciting events designed to welcome the community and showcase everything they have to offer. Highlights included Ladies at the Helm, a special event empowering women to gain confidence on the water and an informative fishing seminar for anglers of all skill levels. Guests enjoyed twilight boat showings, where they could explore the latest models under the glow of sunset, and capped off the festivities with a lively crawfish boil and live music. A silent auction was held, with all proceeds benefiting The Arc of Gulf Coast Alabama, supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The Grand Opening was not just a celebration—it was a meaningful way to connect with the community and give back.

Ashley Stewart, Leah Altsman, Stephanie Brewster and Cara Lewis

Bubba Lee and Megan Riddle

Peter and Terri Bos

Micah Cassidy and Lexi Cassidy

Philip and Jill Harris

Penny Loane, David Loane and Kyle Nadroski

Tony Russano and Karen Russano Kayla and Daulton Tullis

Robert and Elizabeth Long Davis and Sarah Joyner

Daniel Robinson, JJ Ballew and Shawn Kennet

Kristina Nadrowski, Mattie Smith and Mary Smith

Poncho and Wanda James

Brenda Connell and Tony Morris

Mike and Cathy Saucier

Karen Russano and Lindsey Feely

Wallace and Cristy Heck

Joe Warrington and Natalie Rowland

Phil and Patti Wright

Sherri and Lannie Smith

MEMBERSHIP EVENT

Ladies of Impact 100 Mobile gathered at the Sybil Smith Family Village, Dumas Wesley Community Center’s Transitional Housing Program, which fills a vital gap in housing services for single women and women with children experiencing homelessness. At this membership event, they saw firsthand how transformative grants—like the one awarded by the organization last year—can truly be.

Betty Fain, Makeda Nichols, Kate Carver, Joni Hendee and Jennifer Winstead

Photos by Candice Brown

Shana Jordan and Shilpa Burkett

Charlene Reyes and Hayley Carlton

Donna Camp and Carol Mackey

Clara Cannon and Cindy Larry

Kate Carver and Makeda Nichols

Fran Lyons and Renà Davis

Donna Dewberry and Betty Fain

Rená Davis and MaryLou Hyland

601 North Section Street Fairhope, AL 36532

251.990.2361

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Elaine Baxter, Carol Mackey and Julie Moore

Jennifer Winstead, Fran Lyons and Donna Dewberry

Erna Whiston, Betty Fain and Joni Hendee

Charlene Reyes and Kate Duthu

Mix & Mingle

AT GREER’S ST. LOUIS MARKET

Junior League of Mobile hosted an engaging evening at Greer’s St. Louis Market, where guests discovered how to join the upcoming new member class and learned about JLM’s impact in the community—all in a fun, welcoming atmosphere!

Ashley Darst, Ashley Duncan, Lindsay Wilson, Kate Melo, Dani Mountain and Katy Stembridge

Photos by Priscilla Santiago

Joyce Dixon, Lori Prewitt Moore and Shannon Harris

Tiffany Robinson and Eryn Robinson

Talma M. Carstarphen and Amelia Rose Zimlich

Shelby Populus and Julie Caminas

Ashleigh McSwain and Phylicia McMillan

Renee Russell and Duong Hoang

Sophia Houston, Johanna Thompson and Faith Baker Davis

Lydia McQueen and Jennifer Lopes

We have but one mission. Providing our clients with the guidance for what’s now and what’s next. Our team, our abilities and our promise to you, is to provide the advice, tools and solutions you need to chart your path to success.

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Iriana Hauth, Sarah Hatcher and Chloe Franklin

Joanne Watson, Faith Baker Davis and Jackie Chestang

Lashundra Cotten, Tammy O’Cain and Carmeca Williams

Shalynthia T. Jackson, Sharan Smith, Kimberly Bell, Kate Melo and Pamela Bell

Iworked as a NICU nurse until 2018, earning my BSN from South Alabama College of Nursing on May 11, 2012—the same day my second child, Skinner, was born. Though I missed walking with my class by just a few hours, I’m incredibly proud to have completed nursing school while having two babies.

For the past seven years, I have been a full-time stay-athome mom. However, staying still has never been my strong suit! My love for holiday decorating led to being featured in Mobile Bay Monthly, which opened the door to decorating for others. More recently, I rekindled my passion for painting, a creative outlet that has always been a huge part of my life. I truly consider creating to be my love language. I also co-own Smith Straw, working alongside my husband in that venture.

I am blessed with four incredible children: Hollins (14), Skinner (12), Redford (9), and Sterling (7), each with their own unique personality and talents. Hollins is my driven leader, excelling in academics, athletics, and extracurriculars at UMS-Wright. Skinner is my sports-obsessed child, dreaming of playing in the MLB. He also plays guitar and has earned Scholar with Distinction at UMS-Wright multiple times. Redford, my old soul, is full of humor and ambition—he even says he wants to be the next President! Sterling, my youngest, is all about competing with Skinner and trying to outdo his older brother in everything.

I want my children to remember that no dream is too big and that I will always be their biggest cheerleader. I constantly remind them to "shoot higher" because hard work and grit can take them anywhere.

Holidays and birthdays are a big deal in our house! For Halloween, we love family costumes, and our favorite was “Bands and Babes”, the same theme I chose when I served as President of Maids of Jubilee. For Christmas, we take pictures with Santa at the Grand Hotel and enjoy brunch afterward. I also hand-paint ornaments for my children based on their favorite books or movies. Valentine’s Day means special mailboxes filled with treats, and for Easter, we help host a charity Easter egg hunt, benefiting a local family or organization. Birthdays are always special, with a school lunch visit, morning donuts for their class, and a small family cake from Publix to celebrate at home.

Cunningham Smith

This is a truly special time for our family, as Mardi Gras is deeply woven into our history and traditions. My grandfather, father, aunt, siblings, husband, and I have all played roles in the festivities, from Knights to Ladies of the Court. My father and brother have both had the honor of serving as King of Mardi Gras. Most recently, my oldest daughter, Hollins, is serving on the Juvenile Court this year. I had the honor of serving as Maids of Jubilee President (2022-2023) and take immense pride in this legacy. My mom rode in Maids of Jubilee for years, and it remains one of my fondest childhood memories. Just a few decades later, I became the organization’s youngest-ever President, an honor I will always cherish.

Mardi Gras is more than a party—it’s a celebration of arts, culture, and tradition. Watching my children enjoy it just as much as I did growing up is a full-circle moment. They love seeing me ride in Maids of Jubilee, receiving special throws just for them. Sending Randazzo King Cakes to school has also been a tradition since preschool.

The greatest lesson my children have taught me is to slow down and truly enjoy life. Before motherhood, I was always chasing the next milestone, but now I cherish every phase.

While my children fill most of my time, I remain involved with Maids of Jubilee, National Charity League, and the Junior League of Mobile. Life is busy, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I’ve learned to embrace each season, support my kids’ passions, and continue creating in every way possible. I can’t wait to see where life takes them.

The Order of Olympia was founded in 2020. Seeing a need for greater diversity and nonprofit work in the community, the organization was formed to provide thoughtful, sensible solutions. This year’s theme was “Goddess Mnemosyne Takes Us Back to the ’80s.”

The Goddess of Memory inspired a celebration of nostalgia, fun, and unforgettable moments. After parading, the Goddesses of OOO and their guests enjoyed a lively ball at Fort Whiting.

Danielle Doussan, Rebecca Cooper, Angie Culp and Cara Deck

Photos by Ruili Cai

Queen Amy Williams and Grand Marshall Jennifer Allen

Emblem Becky Campbell

Brian and Tara Conner

Hailey Lyons and Heather Smelley

Cheryl Garner and Asia Garner

Selena Barnhart and Joe Lopez

Faith Brewer and Amber Kelly

Amanda Leverette and Amber Dorsett-Fields

Walter and Lynda Goodman

QUEEN KIERSTYN NICOLE JOHNSON’S

Garden Party

Queen Kierstyn Nicole Johnson, Queen of the Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association for 2025, hosted two stunning signature events apart from the official MAMGA celebrations. Guests were welcomed to the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel for a beautiful Garden Party.

Photos by Cindy McCrory

Grand Marshall Mr. Allen D. Rice and Veronica Stallworth Rice U.S. Representative Shomari Figures and Dr. Kalisha Figures

Joshua Lockwood and Katryna Kinn

Dr. Carl Cunningham, Audrey & Byron Cunningham

Queen Kierstyn’s mom, Anitra Belle Henderson, and members of Jack and Jill of America-Mobile Chapter

Jean Stimpson and Mayor Sandy Stimpson

Wanda Cox and Clyde Julmisse-Suggs

Kelli Makerson and Queen Kierstyn Nicole Johnson

Jill Chow and Jessica Brown-Bell

LADD LOVE VISUALS

Shad Collins Jr., Kim Collins, Jacquitta Powell Green, Shayla Holloway and Josef Holloway

Barbara Johnson, Ashley Johnson, Dr. Leida Javier Ferrel, PhD and Vicki Jackson Merriweather

Talma M. Carstarphen, Camryn Haston, Kayla Cherie White and Deirdre White

Arthesta Kelly, Taylor Kelly, Judge Carvine Adams, Tiffany Lockette, Shawanda Andrews & Erica Wells

LA LUNA SERVANTE

PHOTOS BY LAFOTOGRAPHEE

75TH

MARDI GRAS MILESTONES – 75TH ANNIVERSARY

La Luna Servante, founded in 1949, marked its 75th anniversary this year—delayed one year due to COVID19. The celebration honored iconic women in history and the organization’s Emblem, Diana, with ten themed skits featuring characters like Dorothy, Marilyn Monroe, Lucille Ball, Barbie, Elle Woods, and more.

This year’s Queen, Dana McCall, and Emblem, Michelle Collins—friends for over 20 years—personally crafted the Queen’s train and collar, adding a heartfelt touch to the milestone event.

Queen Dana McCall Gown: I Do Bridal & Formal @missstellayork Crown and Sceptor: Dynasty Crowns, LLC

Jewelry: Gaudy Galz

Makeup and Hair: Pink Label Agency

Tan: Southern Glow

ANNIVERSARY ARTWORK DESIGN BY MICHAEL PARDEN

Alexander McCall, Harrison McCall, Queen Dana McCall and Eric McCall

Emblem (Diana) Michelle Collings and Queen Dana McCall

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Recipe courtesy of Lucy Greer Cheriogotis from her debut cookbook, Lucy Cooks

Lucy Greer lucygreercooks lucygreer.com

Cookbook available at all Greer’s Markets or on Amazon

MARDI GRAS PASTA

INGREDIENTS:

12 oz. andouille sausage, sliced into half moons

1 yellow bell pepper, diced small

1 green bell pepper, diced small

1 small red onion, diced small

1 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

3 teaspoons Creole seasoning, divided

12 oz. dry cavatappi pasta

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 tablespoons flour

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup Parmesan or Romano cheese, grated

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 cup pasta water

1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped Green onions, thinly sliced for garnish

Savor Savor

DIRECTIONS:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook for 5 minutes, until it begins to brown. Add bell peppers and onions, cooking for 8 minutes until softened. Stir in shrimp and ½ teaspoon of Creole seasoning, then cook for 8-10 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked. Transfer the sausage, vegetables, and shrimp to a bowl and set aside.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add dry pasta and cook for 8 minutes. Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water and set it aside. Drain the pasta and set it aside as well.

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, whisking constantly. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and increase the heat until it begins to bubble. Cook for 1 minute, then remove from heat. Whisk in cheese, the remaining 2½ teaspoons of Creole seasoning, and smoked paprika, stirring until smooth.

Return the sausage, vegetables, and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Add drained pasta, reserved pasta water, and roasted red peppers, stirring until well combined. Cook over medium-low heat for 5-8 minutes, until everything is heated through.

Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced green onions. Enjoy!

The Order of LaShe’s was founded in 1989, with members selecting the Broadway Showgirl in top hat and tails as their emblem. This year’s theme, “LaShe’s in Their Celebration Era,” featured a vibrant parade of 16 floats, designed by Brent Amacker and built by Craig Stephens’s Carnival Artists. The evening wrapped up with a festive ball at the Mobile Convention Center.

Photos by Ruili Cai

Kara Lewis, Kristi Cramblitt and Kayla O’Shea

Jennifer Roman and Cindy Wilson

Christin Collins and Kari Chandler

Ashlee Wendell and Allyssa Dunn

Tammy Roller and Tad Frank

Ann Sands and Danielle Gaucher

TJ and Grace Hundley

Fannie Weaver and Jo Anna Weaver-Grimes

Lisa Downard, Stacey Hyche and Kelli Williams

Mackenzie Dodge and Jordan Blackston

25 TH ANNUAL CHEF CHALLENGE

PHOTOS BY JESSICA ELLISON SMITH

The 25th Annual Chef Challenge, sponsored by MCG Workforce Solutions, was held at the Mobile Convention Center and brought together some of the area’s most celebrated chefs and restaurants. Guests enjoyed an evening of exceptional food and drink, live entertainment by Roman Street, and an extensive silent auction—all in support of Feeding the Gulf Coast’s mission to end hunger along the central Gulf Coast.

HurleyMBHoffersinnovativetherapeuticcarefor individualsandfamiliesbyintegratingcompassion, patientneuroscienceandresearch.Ourteamincludesour carecoordinator,psychiatrist,neurotherapist, Weandcounselorstohelppeoplewiththeiruniqueneeds. aresolutionfocusedonadolescentstruggles,marital conflict,communicationissues,familydysfunction, parentingstruggles,sexualdysfunction,soberliving, ADHDanxiety,depression,sleepdisturbance,trauma,dyslexia, andotherformsofemotionalandrelationalissues. MBHHowdoesthecomprehensiveapproachofHurley improveapatient'squalityofcare? theirItprotectsclientsfromthestressofhavingtopuppeteer owntreatmentplanforthemselvesortheirlovedone. Itshouldneverbethepatient'sburdentoconnecttheir mentalhealthprovidersortohavetohuntfortheright needscounselor,psychiatristorneurotherapist.Ourcommunity anddeservesanobviousandtrustedplacetogo needwhentheyoralovedoneisstrugglingwithamentalhealth orintheirrelationships.Eachclienthasuniqueneeds,andit'simportantthattheyhaveresourcesandvarious professionalsavailabletobeproactiveontheirbehalf.What's new? Neurostimulationiseasilythemostexcitingadvancement inthefieldofmentalhealthresearchinrecentyears.The specificityinwhichitcantargetandalleviatesymptoms andassociatedwithmentalillnesssuchasanxiety,depression ADHDisincrediblyexcitingfortheworldatlarge andmorespecifically,forourcommunity.Wearethrilled thetobeeducators,leadersandclinicianswhocandeliver service.

ORDER OF BUTTERFLY MAIDENS

PHOTOS BY STACY BIZJAK

MARDI GRAS MILESTONES – 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Formed in 2000, the Order of Butterfly Maidens was created to build a close-knit parading organization where members could truly get to know one another. After parading, the group holds its annual ball at Fort Whiting Armory, where their emblem, Madame Butterfly, graces the event in a stunning ball gown and butterfly wings. This year’s theme was Butterflies in Candyland.

A Season to Remember CARNIVAL 2025

The Mobile Carnival Association (MCA), founded in 1872, promotes Mobile as the birthplace of Mardi Gras. It coordinates carnival events, including the annual Coronation of King Felix III and his Queen, their gift to the community. MCA partners with local groups to support youth involvement, host visiting naval ships, and feed first responders. It also operates the Mobile Carnival Museum, showcasing Mardi Gras history through 14 galleries and event rentals. This year, Christian Hunter Lyons reigned as Queen, alongside King Felix III David William Mostellar MCA continues to serve as Mardi Gras’ ambassador, celebrating tradition while enriching the Port City year-round.

Photos by Jeff Tesney courtesy of Mobile Carnival Association

Ms. LeeLee Mostellar, Mrs. Lucy Mostellar Easterlin and King Felix

Photos by Candice Brown

Community Foundation of South Alabama’s 2025 Annual Luncheon at the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Hotel featured an engaging conversation between News Anchor Devon Walsh and Rob Glenn, Vice President of Global Resilience, who leads the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s efforts to bridge government and private sector capabilities. A highlight of the luncheon was the presentation of the prestigious 2025 Ann and Fred Delchamps Distinguished Philanthropist Award to Mayor Sandy Stimpson.

Jahdia Feurtado and Andi Foster

Tina Sanchez and Eliska Morgan

Mayor Sandy Stimpson and Jean Stimpson

Melissa Cross and Andrea Cox

Joanna Bailey, Lee Mitchell and Tina Covington

Camille Bonura, Reggie Reyes and Lindsey Kendall

Bestor Ward, Laura O’Connor and Devon Walsh

Jenny Beam, Leigha Bolton, Jena Berson, Rebecca Byrne, Natalie Dunn and Meagan Gutierrez

Brandi Montgomery, Dale Liesch, Erin Bryars, Mary Kate Hale and Karen Williamson

Darrell Randle, Michi Lunceford, Nancy Hewston, Traci Swoboda, Laura O’Connor & Michael Galvin

Allan Parrish, David Rodgers and Michael Chambers

Leída Javier, Madeleine Dotson, Jason Johnson and Casi Callaway

Aimee Risser and Jordan Gerheim

Madison’s wedding dress, designed by Pnina Tornai, was the perfect reflection of her modern and bold style. During a trip to New York, she tried on multiple dresses, but nothing compared to the dress that made her emotional from the moment she slipped it on. After receiving her mother’s approval, even though it was over budget, the dress was hers. It was a special moment, as they also met the designer herself.

The couple's wedding, held at Kiva Dunes, was a reflection of their love and personalities. The venue held special meaning as Cody's dad developed the property, and this was the first wedding ever held on the golf course. Three days of wedding festivities kicked off with a Halloween Welcome Party, featuring a Grilled Oyster Bar and a Build-Your-Own Grilled Cheese Station.

Madison’s vision for the wedding was modern, fun, and untraditional. “I wanted it to reflect my style, so instead of an archway or flowers, we had huge silver spheres at the ceremony. For the reception, I envisioned white palm trees, floating silver orbs, flower arrangements in the pool, and mirrored disco balls. My bridesmaids wore white, guests wore black. At the reception, we had a custom 10-foot DJ booth. A surprise from my parents included Fat Heads of our Golden Retrievers, and water guns filled with tequila!" Guests partied into the night, some even ending up in the pool by the end of the evening.

The wedding cake, designed to resemble Madison’s wedding dress, featured three tiers with Biscoff Cookies, blueberry-lemon filling, and vanilla-strawberry layers. The modern vibe continued with rice paper resembling waves and fishnet detailing, capturing the essence of the beachside venue.

Guests were greeted with a Champagne Bar, followed by a reception menu featuring Filet Mignon, Grilled Chicken over Orzo Cream Sauce, Shrimp and Grits, Mixed Vegetables, Roasted Potatoes, and Caprese Salad. The open bar served specialty frozen drinks, Butter Pecan Bushwhackers, Margaritas, Pina Coladas, and Daiquiris.

The newlyweds enjoyed a short honeymoon getaway at The Grand Hotel in Point Clear and are looking forward to a more extensive trip to the Amalfi Coast in Italy this May. Madison and Cody call Gulf Shores home, and they are ready to begin the next chapter of their beautiful story.

PIERRETTES

PHOTOS BY JEFF TESNEY

Formed in 1947, the Pierrettes initially held meetings in members’ homes before relocating to the Women’s Club. That same year, an article in the Press-Register noted that no ladies’ societies paraded—though the Pierrettes hoped to be the first. The President leads the annual ball and selects an active member in good standing to serve as Emblem. This year’s theme was Down the Rabbit Hole.

ORDER OF JUNO

Founded in 1941, the Order of Juno is a Mobile mystic society for married women, honoring Juno, goddess of women and marriage. The 83rd annual ball, themed Let’s Fly Away, featured global-inspired dances and a grand entrance by the Queen on a jet plane, accompanied by her husband. A mother-daughter duo proudly served as Emblem and Queen in this year’s celebration.

PHOTOS BY COLONIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

MARY “CHING” WALTERS

Mary “Ching” Walters, a Memphis native, began her artistic career at 12 and has become a highly accomplished artist and illustrator. Renowned for her intricate watercolor and acrylic paintings, she has designed over 2,000 postage stamps for 30+ countries, rubber stamps, food containers, and hundreds of greeting cards. She has also illustrated 14 children’s books, including The Tale of Pelican Bob, which she wrote and illustrated.

Married for 52 years, Ching and her husband, Bob, have lived abroad, spending many years in Italy but always returning to the Gulf Coast. They now reside in Loxley, Alabama, with their two Labrador Retrievers.

Her work can be found in several local galleries, including:

Gallery by the Bay – Downtown Fairhope

Pink Pelican Art Gallery – Orange Beach

Dauphin Island Heritage & Arts – Dauphin Island

Innova Arts – Mobile

COMING SOON

SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2024

Merrill P. Thomas Co., Inc. was named the 2024 Small Business of the Year by the Mobile Chamber during the luncheon and awards ceremony presented by Merchants and Marine Bank at the Renaissance Mobile Riverview Plaza Hotel.

2024 Small Business of the Year Finalists:

Bama Pest Control, Inc., Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics, J Hunt Enterprises, Keith Air Conditioning, Kimberly Coleman – State Farm, Kloud 7, LLC, L.A. Fotographee, Rock & Roll Offs, LLC, Small’s Mortuary and Cremation Services and Southern View Media.

REAL ESTATEIssue The

Photos by Cindy McCrory

Pratt Thomas - Merrill P. Thomas Co., Inc.

Ruthi and Clarence Johnson - Bama Pest Control, Inc.

Jamelah Alston - L.A. Fotographee

Matt Keith, Brent Keith, Lesley Skipper and Wayne Keith - Keith Air Conditioning

Dr. Keith Harvey, Dr. Kimberly Butts and Dr. Carter Thomas - Harvey and Thomas Orthodontics

William Stribling, Nick Segers and Charlotte King - Kloud 7, LLC

CJ Small - Small’s Mortuary & Cremation Services

Michelle Murrill - Southern View Media

Dan McLaughlin, Jeremy Hunt and Kenny Eden - J Hunt Enterprises

Kimberly Coleman - State Farm

Rocky & Keith Fremin - Rock & Roll Offs, LLC

The 7th Annual King Cake Off brought sweet competition to the Gulf Coast as local bakeries, eateries, and grocery stores vied for the title of the best King Cake and King Cake-Inspired Treat. This festive, family-friendly event featured live music, local vendors, kids’ activities, and endless delicious tastings. Presented by PNC Bank, it benefited Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Gulf Coast, helping provide life-changing mentorship for local children.