Stories - Fall/Winter 2007

Cover Story:

Bay Eyes Cataract & Laser Center, P.C.

Inventing ways to improve patient safety

Innovator, Inventor, Visionary… any of these words can be used to describe Joseph F. Gravlee, Jr., MD, eye surgeon. He has a radically different view of what being an ophthalmologist means. For Gravlee, it’s not just about performing cataract surgery; it’s about finding ways to constantly improve how cataract surgery is performed. “By studying what is happening and understanding any drawbacks and problems, we can change the future by improving upon the status quo.” says Gravlee.

As one of the country’s leading cataract surgeons, Gravlee’s concern is finding ways to make eye surgery safer and enable faster recovery for his patients. This unique innovative approach, has not only guided him to ground breaking new techniques for cataract surgery, but has also allowed him to invent a visionary new tool for cataract surgeons. “Phacoemulsification for the removal of cataracts was invented in the 1970s. Unfortu-nately side effects caused by the kinetic energy of cataract probes oscillating at 40,000 cycles per second, shock waves and an ineffective cutting surface, cause complications that are unacceptable to me.” says Gravlee. “I knew that if I could reduce the vibration and find a way to change the cutting surface of the probe, I would enhance the quality of the procedure by making it more predictable and reduce complications that surgeons had come to accept as normal.”

Gravlee found the solution when he was able to design and patent the Safety Bevel®. “This new tip, basi-cally a circular knife, is elegant in it’s simplicity, allows for a cleaner cut of the cataract material, while at the same time making pickup and removal of the material easier. By developing the Safety Bevel® with a con-tinuous cutting surface and reducing the vibration, I was able to eliminate innocent collateral tissue damage and corneal burns. At the same time, the Safety Bevel® configuration on the bottom of the probe enhanced the safety of the procedure by making it more predictable and reducing the chances of rupturing delicate tis-sues within the eye” explains Gravlee.

One gets a sense of the future standard of care as Gravlee gives a tour of his new, World Class surgery eye center. Listening to his presentation one quickly discovers that Dr. Gravlee has raised the bar. He isn’t just a doctor and inventor, but an educator as well. He leaves you with a real understanding of what happens during cataract surgery, something that is very reassuring to his patients.

Dr. Gravlee and his wife Glenda own the Away at the Bay Bed and Breakfast, which overlooks Mobile Bay and is conveniently set up as apartments. Besides the breathtaking surroundings, their guests, including many patients from out of town, think there is a definite advantage to having a “doctor in the house”.

To see how Dr. Gravlee’s invention works; check out the demonstration video on YouTube.com (search for Gravlee cataract surgery). For additional information on eye health, visit the Bay Eyes Cataract & Laser Center website at www.1800clearly.com, or call the office in Fairhope (251) 990-3937 or in Foley at (251) 943-3937.

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Farmer’s Insurance—The McGoogan Agency

We’ve got you covered…

“It’s a tough market at the moment as a result of the recent hurricanes,” says Tom McGoogan, the owner of The McGoogan Agency. “If you have an existing home, make certain of your current coverage,” he rec-ommends. “Ask your agent if you have replacement coverage on your personal property and if your dwelling is covered for its full replacement cost.”

“Before purchasing a new home, call a few insurance agents. Make sure the property is in an area eligible for coverage by their company. The most important factor in choosing your homeowners’ insurance carrier is the agent,” says McGoogan. “If you are not comfortable during the buying process, there is little chance you’ll be comfortable during the claims process. And, unfortunately, claims are the reason we all buy insurance to begin with.”

“I feel very lucky to have employees who are as concerned for my clients as I am,” says McGoogan. Paula Coxwell, senior staff member, has 20 years of experience in the insurance business. Angie Gafford has been with the McGoogan Agency two years and has already proven to be a talented and valuable employee. “Her customer service skills exceed her years of experience,” states McGoogan. The McGoogan Agency has over 46 years combined experience in the human resources and insurance industries, and everyone at The McGoogan Agency is licensed by the state insurance commission.

For your auto, home, life, or business needs, contact Tom McGoogan at 6345 Cottage Hill Road, Suite H in Mobile. He can also be reached via phone at (251) 666-6766 or email at tmcgoogan@farmersagent.com.

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Food World—Senior Bowl

Charitable partnership continues to impact area charities
Thanks to the Food World - Senior Bowl Charitable Partnership, the northern Gulf Coast is a better place to live.

Since its inception, the Partnership has created an amazing legacy of charitable giving, one that has suc-ceeded in donating over $4.2 million to Gulf Coast charities.

The Food World - Senior Bowl Charitable Partnership’s mission is to raise funds for charities whose ser-vices, activities, or programs benefit youth and youth-related activities along the Gulf Coast.

The fulfillment of a five-year pledge to the USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital is the latest charitable highlight in the Partnership’s longtime support of the hospital, which has resulted in over $500,000 in dona-tions used for various projects at the facility.

In addition to USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital, 15 other charitable agencies along the Gulf Coast have received proceeds from the Partnership in 2007, including major donations that were made to Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital in Pensacola, FL; Thomas Hospital in Fairhope; and Mercy Medical in Daphne.

Other Gulf Coast charitable agencies who received funds from the Partnership this Spring include the Mobile County Special Olympics; Alabama School for the Sensory
Impaired; Child Advocacy Center; Mobile Association for the Blind; Fellowship of Christian Athletes; the Mobile Symphony, Ballet, and Opera; Mobile YMCA; and the Pensacola Boys and Girls Clubs.

In addition to the Charitable Partnership, Food World also served as the title sponsor of the Senior Bowl Charity Run as well as several other special events held during the year, including the Senior Bowl Sailing Re-gatta, the Fan Frenzy, and the Tailgate Party.

For more information about the Senior Bowl organization, please visit
www.seniorbowl.com or call (251) 438-2276.

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United Bank

Part of our community for Over 100 years

Too often in today’s corporate world, companies that we do business with are being acquired by other companies. Afterward, the people we are used to working with are no longer there. Take Bay Minette, Ala-bama, for example; it has experienced bank mergers like no other market in Baldwin County.

One thing the people of Bay Minette have been able to count on during these mergers is the stability of United Bank. United Bank serves the Bay Minette community with two convenient locations, and staff mem-bers have long ties to the community. The following are some of the familiar faces that make up United Bank’s Bay Minette staff:

• Carolyn Crane – is the United Bank Vice President and Branch Manager.
• Mike Rogers – a seasoned banking leader and United Bank’s Baldwin County Market President.
• George Price - originally from Bay Minette, he is Vice President and the Business Development Officer.
• Scotty Selph – is a longtime Bay Minette banker and now, United Bank Vice President of Commercial Lending.
• Will Cabaniss - Well known locally in Bay Minette, Will is AVP and Loan Officer.
• Jonathan Jones - Another highly recognizable United Bank loan officer with deep roots in Bay Minette. Jonathan works in United Bank’s AgriFinance Department.

With over 100 years of service, United Bank is proud of its long-time commitment to the community. Stop by any of its Baldwin county locations; visit www.unitedbank.com; or call 1-800-423-7026 to see what services United Bank offers to make your life easier.

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Tressler Financial Group

Planning for your future!
David Tressler, CFP®, ChFC, CLU is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professional with AXA Advisors, LLC, and he is a second-generation financial professional in the Mobile-Baldwin County area. With nearly 30 years of experience, he helps clients seek financial independence through the establishment of clear goals, financial discipline, and long-term strategies, focusing on the following:

•Wealth Preservation, Distribution, and Transfer
•Estate Planning Strategies
•Retirement Planning, both IRS qualified and non-IRS qualified plans
•Business Succession Planning, including Buy-Sell Agreements
•Financial protection including life, health, disability, and long-term care insurance options

Tressler works with clients’ CPAs and attorneys in Mobile and Baldwin County to complete their coordi-nated team of professionals to assist them with their financial needs. He is a member of the Paramount Plan-ning Group (PPG), comprised of the most distinguished, innovative, and respected financial professionals af-filiated with AXA Advisors who meet certain eligibility requirements. PPG members are highly experienced at meeting the special needs of affluent individuals, corporate executives, and business owners. They have access to a wealth planning team, credentialed in law, taxation, and financial services, which assists them with so-phisticated planning strategies.

A graduate of the University of South Alabama with a degree in Finance, Tressler recently earned a Cer-tificate in Retirement Planning from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He has also earned the Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU) and Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC) professional desig-nations.

Recognized for his achievements, he has earned numerous honors throughout his career, including induc-tion into the AXA Advisors Hall of Fame. Active in the industry and the community, Tressler is a member of the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT), the Mobile Estate Planning Council, the Planned Giving Commit-tee for the University of South Alabama, the Mobile Community Foundation, and the Mobile Lions Club. He is also a board member of the Mobile Association of Retarded Citizens.

Tressler recently expanded his practice to include financial professional Chris Collins and a support staff to provide additional resources to clients. Collins also holds a degree in marketing from the University of South Alabama and is a member of its Planned Giving Committee.

Planning can help ensure the well-being of your family, a comfortable retirement, and the long-term sur-vival of your business. When it comes to financial, business, estate, and retirement planning strategies, David Tressler and Chris Collins can help you build a legacy for your family and the next generation. Their offices are located at 851 East I-65 Service Road, South, Suite 512 in Mobile. They can be reached at (251) 343-4855 or via e-mail through www.DavidTressler.com.

David Tressler and Chris Collins offer securities and investment advisory services through AXA Advisors, LLC (NY, NY (212) 314-4600), member NASD, SIPC. Annuity and insurance products are offered through AXA Network, LLC and its subsidiaries. Tressler Financial Group is not owned or operated by AXA Advi-sors. Tressler Financial Group, AXA Advisors, and AXA Network do not provide tax or legal advice.

Certified Financial Board of Standards, Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FI-NANCIAL PLANNER™, which it awards to individuals who successfully complete initial and ongoing certi-fication requirements.

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Wings of Life

Changing lives through Christ

Wings of Life was founded to help the bound, the frustrated, the hurting, and the lost find hope, help, de-liverance, and salvation through the Word of God. It does this by empowering churches and ministries to reach out to all people, especially to the troubled and addicted people of this world.

The objectives Wings of Life sets for each person helps them overcome negative thoughts and emotions; establish a new identity in Christ; develop an honest lifestyle; forgive and seek forgiveness; provide restitution; and become an asset to the community.

Wings of Life accomplishes these objectives by offering over 300 classes/services, including Bible life skills training; Discovery 12 step classes; Overcomers Outreach group meetings; and goal setting. In addition, it of-fers personal growth classes on communication skills and personality testing, and it brings in outside churches and youth ministries to speak.

Wings of Life serves over 100,000 meals a year to residents as well as homeless individuals in the commu-nity. Their evangelists hold services weekly at the Metro jail, and members visit the Strickland Youth Center every week to speak to the troubled youth in that program.

Wings of Life’s funding comes from churches, businesses, and individuals who help to provide service to the community. There is a thrift store on the property, and a new one is located at 4728 Moffett Road in Mo-bile. Any donations to the stores or financial support to the ministry will greatly help. All donations are tax deductible. Please call (251) 432-5245 to see how you can help or to have a pick-up scheduled. Wings of Life is located at 800 St. Louis Street, Mobile, AL, 36602.

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FBI Mobile Division
(Southern Alabama Region)

—To protect and to serve

On July 26, 1908, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was created when U.S. Attorney General Charles Bonaparte ordered newly hired federal investigators to report to Chief Examiner Stanley W. Finch of the Department of Justice. On July 26, 2008, the FBI will celebrate its 100th Anniversary. This story is a trib-ute to the men and women of the FBI in our community.

Debra K. Mack, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) of the Mobile Division of the FBI, is proud of the FBI motto. “We take to heart our motto ‘To Protect and To Serve’ our communities and neighbors,” SAC Mack states. Indeed, the FBI is not just in Washington, D.C., but it has 56 offices in the United States and 60 other offices worldwide. “We are part of the community too; we go to the same churches, schools, and shopping centers as everyone else,” says Mike Beauford, Assistant SAC for Criminal Branch in the Mobile Division. “The difference is our job is to protect where we live.”

SAC Mack was born and raised in New Orleans and has worked at the FBI for almost 25 years. During this time, she worked in many FBI offices, including the Washington, D.C. headquarters. By learning what went on in different offices, she was able to get the “bigger picture” of the FBI. In July of this year, SAC Mack was inducted by a unanimous vote into the Louisiana Justice Hall of Fame.

The Mobile Division of the FBI includes 36 counties in the southern half of Alabama. There are over 120 agents and support staff in the five satellite offices located in Montgomery, Dothan, Opelika, Monroeville, and Selma as well as in the headquarter office in Mobile. “The public would be surprised to see how many highly qualified people work behind the scenes who contribute to cases,” says Benita Caldwell, the Administrative Officer of the Mobile Division. “These include photographers, the evidence response team (forensics), and investigative operations specialists to name a few.”

“When you become an FBI agent, you will get to do things you never dreamed about doing,” says Doug Astralaga, Chief Division Counsel, of his job at the FBI. Astralaga has a background in law and has served the FBI in Jacksonville, Philadelphia, and Mobile during the last 9 years.

Angela Tobon, the spokesperson for the Mobile division, has also served in several cities and has worked in diverse areas such as drugs, fraud, and gangs. “I enjoy working cases,” states Tobon. “There is a lot of job satisfaction in taking bad guys off the street and keeping others from being victimized.”

Although there are many different backgrounds represented in the FBI, there is a common theme: high job satisfaction. Bill Lewis, Assistant SAC for National Security Branch, states, “For anyone who is looking to serve their country and keep it safe, consider a career with the FBI.”

For more information about the FBI, call (251) 438-3674 or visit their website at http://mobile.fbi.gov/.

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ASI Coatings

A new “Glow” on the horizon

ASI Coatings is the newest venture for Larry Ezell and Jerry Anderson, owners of Air Specialty Inc., which specializes in commercial and residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning. In their quest to bring their customers the best quality services, ASI Coatings has acquired the rights to be an applicator of Bronz-Glow Protective Coatings.

Living and working along the Gulf Coast, the effects of sea spray and moisture in the air corrode the metal components of HVAC units. Ezell and Anderson noticed the effects of corrosion on air conditioning unit coils and knew there had to be a way to offer a quality service to their clients that addressed this issue. After much research, they discovered Bronz-Glow, one of the leading suppliers of protective coatings.

Bronz-Glow’s biodegradable cleaners and non-toxic coating protect metal against the entire pH range of corrosion-causing agents and chemicals. These products will not peel, chip, or crack. The process is recom-mended for residential or commercial equipment, especially new equipment before it’s exposed to the ele-ments. Coating the exposed metal parts with the protective resin adds to the structural integrity and prolongs the life of equipment. The process has a short turn-around time, which is great for contractors on a tight build-ing schedule or an emergency residential installation. The U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and other government agencies as well as several large Southeastern retailers are currently utilizing this same product.

“Jerry and I are thrilled to offer a corrosion solution to our clients,” Ezell says. “We think it will also be a win-win for other HVAC companies to offer this protective process to their customers.”
ASI Coatings is licensed to offer Bronz-Glow coating services throughout the Gulf Coast from FL to TX, including the state of Mississippi. For more information, email them at info@air-specialty.com; or call them toll-free at 1-877-649-6622 or locally at (251) 649-0701.

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Quality Alarm Systems Inc. & Entertainment Too!

Selling “Peace of Mind” & Entertainment Too!

Imagine walking through your front door, lights automatically greet you, quiet music plays, and the hot tub is heating to offer relaxation while dinner is cooking – all from one touch pad!

Electronic Design Automation (EDA), the limitless possibilities of integrating lighting, security systems, entertainment, and technology is here. And, Pensacola-based Quality Alarm Systems Inc. and Entertainment Too! is the Gulf Coast team to design, install, and maintain their customer’s “vision”. Whether new home construction or remodeling/retrofit projects, both companies offer the highest quality of service, components, and design techniques to their customers.

Over 20 years ago, Jerry and Lynn Hesse began Quality Alarm Systems Inc., and began installing low-voltage security alarm systems. Their guiding force was to professionally install “peace of mind,” and in doing so they created an innovative concept for the alarm industry. This concept provides monthly monitoring ser-vice with a lifetime maintenance/support warranty for $20.00 per month, while requiring no long-term con-tract. These systems can be independent or encompass complete security integration with well-placed security cameras monitored from every television in the house or anywhere in the world with high-speed Internet ac-cess. This locally owned company has installation and maintenance vehicles in both Florida and Alabama. Their trucks are fully equipped to handle any customer’s problem, and a technician is on-call 24/7.

Realizing the increased demand for custom-designed electronic home systems, Entertainment Too! was opened at 3613 North Palafox Street in 1996. The retail location showcases their product lines (Hitachi, Klipsch, Marantz, Pioneer, Sonance), and demonstrates systems integration. When installing structured wir-ing, a security system, audio/video equipment, or an automation application, they pride themselves in provid-ing quality workmanship. Entertainment Too! provides “turn key” home audio/video solutions. Whether it’s a basic surround sound system to enhance the television and movie viewing experience, a multi-room music system for entertaining family and guests, or a complex home theater design, incorporating automation tech-nology; their design team constructs and organizes the entire installation, including entertainment furniture and accessories.

Traditional room station or telephone–style intercom systems are also offered, as well as central vacuum systems. A central vacuum system offers better indoor air quality, more power, longer carpet life, quiet opera-tion and added home value.

Remember, possibilities are limitless!
For more information, visit www.entertainmenttoo.com, or call 850–433-9600.
Quality Alarm Systems Licenses: Florida, #EF0000797; Alabama, #141.

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Gulf Coast Office Products

Doing business with great companies

Mark Wright, CEO of Gulf Coast Office Products (GCOP), has just returned from a Canadian trip. No, he wasn’t there to catch trophy fish or bears; he was hunting for trophy furniture. Wright was invited, along with his management team, to visit the home offices and factories of Global Office furnishings.

The Global Group of Companies, one of the premier manufacturers of office furniture in North America, was started 40 years ago by Saul Feldberg. Feldberg, a Holocaust survivor, started Global when he saw an of-fice furniture need that was not being filled. During the period following WWII, executive office chairs were a luxury that only a very few could afford, often running well over $500. Feldberg redesigned the way executive chairs were built, lowering the cost to less that $130, and a whole new industry was born.

With over 39 companies, Global now covers the gamut of business furniture, from high end, high quality furniture to the mass-marketed furniture that can be found at discount office supply outlets. Wright was inter-ested in seeing how well the high quality furniture GCOP distributes for Global was being built and tested. He also wanted to find out more about the recycling procedures that Global was using. Wright discovered that Global recycles 98% of the paint they use to paint their furniture, and they gather all wood shavings and scrap plastic to make the bases for their furniture.

How well did Global test their furniture? At the Global chair factory, Wright watched as chairs were pulled into the testing center where a 250 lb weight was dropped 100,000 times into a chair seat to see how it would hold up. “We were very impressed with so many things at Global. From the cleanliness of their facto-ries to the diversity of their workforce from around the globe; from the great dedication they have to recycling and the lengths they go through to test their chairs to their employee loyalty. In fact, the manager of the chair plant had been with Global since their beginning when he started working part time as a high school student,” said Wright.

Wright is accustomed to working with great companies. When GCOP inquired about carrying another top furniture line, Knoll Furniture, he was informed that GCOP would have to pass strenuous interviews and a thorough inspection of company business procedures, philosophy, and business history. GCOP passed the inspection and two separate interviews before Knoll would allow them to become a dealer. “Knoll Furniture is known for their designs and quality. They go through great lengths to protect their good name,” says Wright.

From around the world to your office, Gulf Coast Office Products delivers high quality office furnishings and supplies to customers. For more information on GCOP’s offerings, visit their website at www.gcop.com or call their Mobile (251) 476-7100 or Bay Minette (251) 937-9800 locations.

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Pay-Less Carpets and Flooring, Inc.

A contractor’s dream company

Family owned and operated since 1947, Pay-Less Carpets and Flooring are experts in carpet, laminate, ceramic tile, and shower surrounds. They have made a name for themselves with exceptional service, and while they are well known for residential flooring, they also offer excellent commercial flooring options. The commercial carpets and tiles they offer are built to elegantly withstand high traffic and last a very long time.

Pay-Less is unique in that they not only offer high quality flooring options at an incredible price, but they also take care of all the installation needs. This makes Pay-Less a contractor’s dream as they send in their own team of experts to oversee and install the flooring as well as take care of any number of details. The Pay-Less team offers unbeatable customer service, making sure the installation is perfect from beginning to end, and they communicate with contractors and builders every step of the way.

Pay-Less was recently hired to work on the prestigious St. Louis Lofts in downtown Mobile. The Lofts offer 21 beautiful units that will all feature Pay-Less flooring and craftsmanship. “We went with Pay-Less be-cause of their good reputation and quality flooring options; they also offered competitive prices,” says Paula Maisel of Maisel Bryan & Associates, the general contractor for the St. Louis Lofts project. “They offer the best customer service, and are on top of every part of the installation. They are quick to offer help and answers to any questions we have had. They’ve been really great to work with.”

Pay-Less is proud to be involved again this year with the Home Builders Association of Metro Mobile Parade of Homes (October 13-14 and 20-21). Come see their work at the Gallery Homes in the McRae subdi-vision (on Johnson Road). They have installed hand scraped hardwood floors (for that early American look); porcelain tile in the bathrooms, kitchen, and utility room; and carpet.

Pay-Less is located at 2818 Government Boulevard in Mobile, and they are open Monday through Friday 7 AM to 5 PM and Saturday 9 AM to 1 PM. Pay-Less may also be reached via telephone at (251) 476-5114.

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Homebuilders Association of Metro Mobile (HBAMM)

Parade of Homes – Showcase Home – true country living
The Homebuilders Association of Metro Mobile (HBAMM) will kick off the 2007 Parade of Homes later this month and as usual, it promises some elegant homes and great surprises for those “tourists.” This year’s Showcase Home was designed by Gary/Ragsdale, Inc. and is being built by Mark and Jennifer Swanson of Mark Swanson Builders, Inc. It is located in the Holley Branch - Village Site Subdivision at the intersection of Snow Road and Autumn Leaf Drive in West Mobile.

This all brick, French Country-Style home features classic French shutters, a circular driveway, and a curved brick paver sidewalk that leads up to an arched front entrance. On entering the home, it’s evident that this home has been extremely well laid out and appointed with the Baby Boomer generation in mind. It is a single story house with everything on one floor, including 3300 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3 ½ bathrooms, a mother-in-law’s suite, great outside living spaces, and easy access with wide doors and plenty of room around the kitchen island.

“This home has something for everyone in the family,” says Mark Swanson. “We have made great use out of the space in this home: a mother-in-law suite; wide open, large porch; separate gazebo; study; office; wine cellar; and big kitchen with pantry space.” Swanson’s signature in the building industry is the craftsman-ship he brings to his projects. “I only hire the finest subcontractors, and it shows in their work,” says Swanson. He is also known for his use of varying textures, and the Showcase Home is no exception with brick pavers for the sidewalks, flagstone on the outside porches, stained cypress ceiling on the back porch, coffered ceiling in the dining room, and porcelain tile and hardwood flooring throughout.

Christine Adams of Mobile Lighting & Design is lead decorator for the Showcase Home. Her crew of 10 different decorators has made their mark on the home. She explains, “We have had a lot of fun decorating the home. We are using wonderful colors that are not normally found here in Mobile. Our visitors will want to notice how the painting flows from one room to another, and they will see interesting lighting, including handmade copper mustache lantern lamps, Mardi Gras chandeliers, and fireplace sconces.”

Look for all of the extras while you are there. Special amenities include built-in wine racks, custom closets and cabinets throughout the home, and custom textured floor and wall unit organizers in the garage. You’ll love the floor-to-ceiling windows, 8’ high interior doors, leaded glass over the bathtub, and living room sound system. Be sure to check out the special art piece above the fireplace.

The HBA Showcase Home is located at 1861 Winterberry Street, Holley Branch - Village Site and the Pa-rade of Homes will take place October 13-14 and October 20-21 from 10 AM to 5 PM each day. For more in-formation, contact the Home Builders Association of Metro Mobile at (251) 661-6523 or visit www.HBAMM.com.

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YWCA of Greater Mobile

Strong alone. Fearless together.

From no rights to voting rights and from Girl Friday to CEO, the YWCA of Greater Mobile has spent 104 years working toward racial justice and empowering women. Organized October 12, 1904, the YWCA of Greater Mobile is a women’s membership movement nourished by its rich history and strong community roots. Strengthened by diversity, the Association creates opportunities to educate, motivate, and support women, children, and their families to achieve their fullest potential.

The YWCA also promotes racial justice and gender equity, creating women’s growth, leadership, and power to attain a common vision: peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all people. The YWCA will thrust its collective power toward the elimination of racism, wherever it exists, and by any means necessary.

“We are proud of the many years of service provided to Greater Mobile,” said YWCA Board President, Amanda Outlaw. “Our goal is to continue providing services and programs that make a difference in the lives of women and their families.”

The programs include the Juliette Derricotte Day Care Tickle Days program for homeless children; the School Mate after-school program, 21st Century Learning Center, located at Whitley Elementary School; the Women of Achievement recognition program; the Sister-to-Sister empowerment program and the Wings men-toring program for teens and girls; and economic empowerment programs.

Volunteers and donations are welcome. For more information or to become a member of the YWCA of Greater Mobile, call (251) 476-7733.

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Administration Partners, LLC

Partners in the success of your plan

With more than 40 years of combined experience, Administration Partners has the reputation for design-ing retirement plans that are customized for each employer. As “Partners in the Success of Your Plan,” Belinda Henning and Kim Newell, owners of Administration Partners, consult directly with employers to rec-ommend a design that enhances the overall employee benefit package while controlling cost.

Melodie Mastro, CFO of Precision Engineering, can relate, “We are a small company (around 35 em-ployees), but with Administration Partners, we get the individual attention, high standards of professionalism, timely reporting, and extras that a company of our size wouldn’t normally receive. Administration Partners does a great job of staying on top of things so that there aren’t any big surprises, and besides, they treat us like family, and it just doesn’t get any better than that.”

Derek Thomas, President of Thomas Industries Inc., a long time client of Administration Partners, is very familiar with their service, “We have been with Administration Partners since 1993, before Belinda and Kim were the owners of the company. They know and track our history and policies, and they keep us up to date on the new laws and ways these new laws can be advantageous for our company. I have complete confidence in them; if they tell me something about our retirement plan, I know it’s the truth, which means peace of mind for me and for our employees.”

Since Administration Partners is committed to not selling investments, many local investment advisors trust Administration Partners to keep their clients in compliance with 401(k) and profit sharing plans.

For more information on Administration Partners, call (251) 344-3116 to speak with Kim Newell or Belinda Henning.

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Simply Shutters

“Shutters fit for a showcase”

The 2007 Home Builders of Metro Mobile (HBAMM) Parade of Homes will once again feature custom-built shutters from Simply Shutters in several of the Parade homes. In fact, all of the window treatments in the Showcase Home will feature shutters from Simply Shutters.

Mark Swanson Builders, Inc., the general contractor for Parade of Homes Showcase home, is well known for the use of color, stain, and texture in the custom wood cabinets, trim, and hardwood floors. Simply Shutters is a natural fit to compliment all of that variety as they can match stains, colors, and styles to blend in with the woodwork and decor. Simply Shutters is adept at handling curved arches, radius cutouts for French doors with lever handles, and special custom shutters to fit those hard-to-fit openings.

Another Parade of Homes builder, Pete Garonne of Sparcole Construction, said, “We can depend on Simply Shutters to provide us with a high quality product, and their turn around time is excellent. If there ever is a problem, they make it right.” Garonne also states, “We have used them for many years and have found their service to be exceptional.”

This is one of the reasons Simply Shutters has recently earned the Homeowners Gold rating from O’Hair Shutters; they have earned this award by receiving a 98% approval rating from their customers for having ex-ceptional fit, finish, and service.

When customers buy shutters from Simply Shutters, they are eligible for The Homeowners Limited Lifetime Transferable Warranty, which is backed by O’Hair. O’Hair is the only company in the shutter business to offer this type of warranty, and of course, Simply Shutters warrants their workmanship.

For the finest in custom wood shutters anywhere on the Gulf Coast, from New Orleans to Panama City, the decision is simple: Simply Shutters. For more information on Simply Shutters, call 1-800-653-1298 or visit their website at www.simplyshutters.com.

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Westminster Village

Westminster’s annual Festival of Trees

Each year, about this time, plans are being made for Westminster Village’s Festival of Trees. “Four years ago, we decided to make Christmas more festive at the Village,” says Kay Brown Korb, Director of Marketing. “We wanted to do something that would brighten the spirits of our residents, give our business and personal friends an opportunity to display their creativity, and benefit the Spanish Fort community.”

Since the first year, the festival has become a tradition. The two halls leading to the fireside/great room lounge are lined with upwards of 50 three foot, lighted Christmas trees, each decorated with a different theme. The trees are on display for several weeks, and they are bid on via a silent auction. Early in December, the trees are judged; winners in a number of categories are announced; and the trees are purchased by the success-ful bidders.

“The trees are absolutely unique and beautiful,” remarks Korb. “Last year, the tree judged most clever was decorated by the office of Spanish Fort Mayor, Joe Bonner. It featured a miniature head of a buck deer and other outdoor-type decorations that fit the theme: The Buck Stops Here. It was purchased by one of our resi-dents to give to her grandson as a Christmas present.”

“For some of our residents, Christmas can be a sad time because of the memories of Christmases past and the loss of family and friends,” states Bobby Fortenberry, Chairman of Westminster’s governing board. “The Festival of Trees has made a great difference in providing beauty to our building and inspiration to our resi-dents,” he adds. “The other good thing about the Festival is that the proceeds from the sale of the trees go to the planned Spanish Fort Community Center.”

For more information about Westminster Village and the Festival of Trees, contact Kay Korb at (251) 626-2900 or by e-mail at kkorb@wvsf.us.

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Prudential Nichols Real Estate

The future of real estate is now!

As one of the Eastern Shore’s oldest real estate companies, Prudential Nichols Real Estate, under the solid leadership of Sonny and Claudene Nichols, has been serving Baldwin County buyers and sellers for over 37 years.

Taking pride in welcoming newcomers into the area, Prudential Nichols Real Estate has set a rock solid course in keeping the Baldwin County real estate industry on a progressive trend. Always looking for avenues to better the client experience, Prudential Nichols Real Estate was the first Baldwin County real estate com-pany to:

• Place a broker on the Board of Mobile Area Association of Realtors
• Have a computerized in-house listing inventory program
• Provide customized Seller's Disclosure and Purchaser's Disclosures
• Have over 75% of their agents E-Certified for excellence in Internet technology
• Have a full-time, in-house Compliance Director, serving all of their listers and buyers
• Offer Value-Range Marketing
• Offer state-of-the-art listing presentation
• Provide full-time, in-house employees dedicated to computer technology and equipment

AND IT DOESN’T STOP THERE… Prudential Nichols is committed to providing you all the available tools and tips to make your real estate buying or selling experience exceed your expectations. With their new, exclusive Yahoo!® partnership, Prudential Nichols is now able to provide new, powerful Internet tools to as-sist you in keeping track of your interests as a buyer and to assist in keeping track of the activity on your listing as a seller. So be sure to visit them online at www.prudentialnichols.com. Prudential Nichols: Dedicated to our clients, 24/7.

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Mobile Marble

Remodeling with quality

Mobile Marble is known for its excellent service, craftsmanship, and quality products. Founded in 1973 by Bob Lindsey, the locally owned and operated company is now run by his son, David, and his wife, Darla. David, with 34 years of experience, has been involved with the business in every aspect from the ground up since it began.

“Of all the innovations that we have seen in the cultured marble industry over the last 30+ years, the most exciting is a new product called TruStone,” says David. “TruStone has developed a process that allows us to produce the actual look of stone, marble, travertine, and granite at a fraction of the cost of those products.” Darla is excited about TruStone for other reasons, “Unlike ceramic tile, there isn’t any grout with TruStone, which is going to make cleaning the bathroom much easier!”

TruStone is non-porous and bacteria resistant, making it a tasteful option for both new bathroom construction as well as for remodeling the bath and shower area of your home. The beautiful realistic look of stone, marble, travertine, or granite will bring the look and feel of luxury to your bathroom without breaking your budget. TruStone comes in a vast array of 30 different colors, giving you the option to install different colors throughout your home in any design and variety you can possibly imagine, from nature inspired to spa.

Trust your bathroom building and remodeling needs to Mobile Marble’s expertise and products of distinction. For more information, call Mobile Marble at (251) 344-6272.

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The Grand Band

Providing grand entertainment…

You would think that one musical band in a family would be enough, but Glenn Normand thought differently. After apprenticing in his father’s orchestra at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, Normand began a part-time band that evolved into a full-time and lifelong endeavor. The Grand Band, also known as The Glenn Normand Band, was an instant success. Everywhere they appeared, guests asked if the band could travel to play for their upcoming parties. A closest guess puts their experience at 4,000 parties in 98 cities in 6 states.

What impresses everyone is that the band’s personnel have changed little over this time. All male band members have played in the band at least 20 years, and Normand’s wife Robin sang with the band the better part of 22 years. What this means to listeners is that the sound is tight and strong, and the band doesn’t think about the music, they concentrate on entertaining the audience. And entertain they do, bringing props and costumes; this act is not just great to listen to, but it is fun to watch and to participate with. It is one of the few acts around that always includes a horn section, providing punch and pizzazz to songs.

The Band is always striving to do better and has scored big with their new female vocalist, Eden Kentner. After an American Idol performance in Hollywood, California, Eden confirmed her life dream was singing on stage. Her incredible vocal abilities are matched by explosive enthusiasm, and the band is proud to back her talents.

The Grand Band generated so many calls that an entertainment booking company, Grand Entertainment, was formed to handle the requests and to book for other bands, DJs, and comedy and magic acts. For information, call (251) 621-0234 or visit their website at www.grandband.com.

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eMD Solutions

The total healthcare solution…

Each of the presidential candidates is trying to catch the public’s attention with his or her plan for a na-tional healthcare system. Over the course of the next year, Americans will hear many “new” proposals about universal healthcare or ways to improve upon the system the U.S. currently uses. As users of that system, individuals as well as healthcare professionals will have concerns as to what the proposals will mean regarding accessibility as well as patient care.

eMD finds itself right in the middle of that future. They are a physician billing solutions company located in Baldwin County that provides consulting, billing services, and billing software to their clients. “We are con-stantly doing research and partnering with vendors as well as government agencies to stay in front of the medi-cal change curve,” says Patti Mueller, COO of eMD Solutions.

Recently, eMD has been working with an Alabama governmental agency to develop a way for rural phy-sicians to quickly get caught up with Federal mandates regarding medical records and reporting patient out-comes. One of those, the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) initiative, mandates that in the near future, phy-sicians and medical facilities will have to switch from paper records to electronic ones. “When we looked at vendors for our Information Technology system, we did so knowing that we would need a company that would be willing to help us stay in the forefront of this upcoming change,” states Rhonda Edgeworth who heads up Information Technology for eMD. For patients, the EMR initiative will allow their medical informa-tion to become available in an electronic format, making it quicker and easier to share with physicians and hospital staff. This can have a very positive outcome for patients who need to quickly share their vital medical information among the primary care physician, specialists, and hospital medical staff.

Another forward-looking program eMD is participating in is the Medicare pay-for-performance model. The PVRP initiative was launched in 2006 by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to help cap-ture data about the quality of care provided to Medicare beneficiaries. Physicians who participate report to CMS on 2-3 of the 70+ quality measures, such as whether a patient received aspirin shortly after arrival in the emergency department or whether adult patients diagnosed with major depression were documented as treated with antidepressants. This allows physicians to receive confidential feedback on their reporting rate and per-formance rate for each measure reported.

“The software vendor we use is one of a very few who can handle the reporting requirements for the PVRP initiative,” says Mueller. “Without our research into software vendors who allow this kind of reporting on their system, we would not be able to offer our physician clients the opportunity to participate in these prgrams.”

In addition to medical practice management consulting services, eMD provides computer systems and software support, including electronic medical records software. For more information about eMD Solutions, call
(251) 621-6466 or email Patti Mueller on their website at www.emdsolutionsinc.com.

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Welcome Friends

Someone to count on when you’re new in town!

Welcome Friends, owned by Millie Sue Hawk, continues to welcome newcomers in the Gulf Coast area. “We have a great team in place,” Hawk explains, “with Shirley and Bruce Hedrick in Fairhope; Judy Baust and Betty Grissett in Daphne and Spanish Fort; and CeCe Beaman, Mary Lou Coate, and Jackie Benson in North Mobile. Veri and Teddy Dale, with City Hostess, also distribute the welcome packets in the Mobile area.”

Already reaching over 900 homes per month in Mobile, North Mobile, and Eastern Shore, Welcome Friends is looking forward to expanding into the South Baldwin area. “We are excited to announce that Emily Hipsh has come on board to strengthen our presence in South Baldwin County,” Hawk says. Originally from Dallas, TX, Hipsh and her husband Shawn, moved to South Baldwin five years ago. Shawn is a Financial Advisor with Morgan Stanley, and they have two children: Nick, age 2, and Gabby, age 5.

Welcome Friends could not continue without the support of its great local businesses. Long-time sponsors in the Eastern Shore area include Waggy Tail, Fairhope United Methodist Church, Cook’s Pest Control, Fair-hope Pharmacy, Northcutt Dental, Thomas Hospital, and Bay Eyes Cataract and Laser Center. Some of the restaurant sponsors from the Baldwin County are Andree’s, Gambino’s, and Big Daddy’s Grill.

Getting newcomers involved with our community and introducing them to the local area are the goals for Welcome Friends. AROUND TOWN has become a popular activity for Newcomers in the Eastern Shore area. “AROUND TOWN is a program that allows newcomers to our community to meet other newcomers, make some new friends, and become familiar with some of the local merchant sponsors,” Hawk explains. Or-ganized by the Welcome Friends staff, the meetings are held the last Friday of each month. Newcomers are welcomed by the Welcome Friends Greeters at a local shop to browse then they are afforded a chance to walk around town and go to a Dutch treat lunch at a sponsor restaurant.

Newcomers to our area and businesses interested in being represented in the Newcomer welcome packets in South Baldwin County can contact Emily Hipsh at (251) 597-8636 or Millie Sue Hawk at (251) 422-7777; or they can be found on the web at www.welcome-friends.com.

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