Gulf Coast, AL April 2026

The INVEST Issue

Welcome to the INVEST Issue!

Welcome to our 4th Invest Issue, and this month we’re looking far beyond financial portfolios. Because true investment is about so much more than money; it’s about investing in: yourself, your community, your business, your home, your health, and our Coastal lifestyle.

This issue begins with Air Pro Services, where we meet Ren Lawson and explore why HVAC care is such a critical investment in our warm humid coastal climate.

Next, we sit down with Ryals Group Wealth Management, where Crossan Ryals shares her thoughtful insight on investing in yourself through education, clarity, and intentional financial planning.

We head to Gulf Shores, to gain advice from law firm,  King & King, PLC.  They educate us on how protecting your self, business, and estate creates confidence, security, and peace of mind.

Next stop, Beach Boulevard to explore the latest eye care innovations found in Coastal Family EyeCare with Dr. Carrie Wilder, where advanced technology meets compassionate personalized care. Eye health is so important at every age.

We are excited to introduce you to the team at Coastal Merchant Services, one of the coolest businesses and teams in town. They help local companies streamline payment processing. Investing in their modern software, terminals and excellent customer service is a smart move for any growing business.

Having Tim Tebow in this issue was truly humbling. Meeting him at our 2026 publisher’s conference stands among the highlights of my professional career. His talk on personal and business growth, rooted in servant leadership and a reminder that comparison steals joy, offered a powerful and timely message.

Our cover story celebrates one of the most exciting changes in Orange Beach, the new golf cart path. We take you to some of our favorite places: restaurants, shops, beaches, and The Wharf. Orange Beach residents are more connected, bringing our community closer.

We partnered with Gulf Shores Power Sports, whose wide selection of golf carts makes Island exploring easy and fun. Their expert team helps you find the perfect fit for your family. Investing in the golf cart lifestyle is the best way to experience our Island.

This issue is full of inspiration, valuable insight, and outstanding local businesses, and we are so fortunate to live in a community that continues to grow, evolve, and INVEST in what matters most.

Thank you for inviting us into your homes and hearts.

Love local. Live local. Spend local.

Until next month…

April 2026

PUBLISHER

Ashley Roberts | ashley.roberts@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Lillian Norris | lillian.taylor@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

JD Swiger-Swiger Studio

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

President Matthew Perry

COO David Stetler

CRO Jamie Pentz

CoS Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

ASHLEY ROBERTS, PUBLISHER

Tough Builds for Tough Water Marine Construction Built to Last

At Weeks Bay Marine, we are committed to delivering exceptional services and expert care, specializing in all marine construction and repair needs. Our expertise extends beyond marine construction to include land development, dredging, demolition services, boat salvage, and tree and sod installation, and seawall construction.

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Our editor, Lillian Norris, at her ribbon-cutting for Baldwin County Resurces. Congratulations Lillian! 2: Baldwin County Resources and Goldsmith Business Solutions held their ribbon-cutting and grand-opening. Congratulations ladies! 3: Janet Haenisch looking festive and fabulous on the Maidens of Mischief float. 4: The Orange Beach parade on Mardi Gras Day. Fun and festive for the whole family. 5: Mayor Kennon and Bailey Kennon Wyatt on the City of OB float. Happy Mardi Gras! 6: The Maidens in Pink Stiletto’s float! Throw us something MIPS! 7: Pat Dupré and Jenny Summerville pose in between the Gulf Shores and Orange Beach parades.

8, 11: The Orange Beach parade on Mardi Gras Day. Fun and festive for the whole family. 9: Gulf Shores High School Marching Band parading and entertaining the crowds. 10: Casey Buckner on CABC’s Shrimp Festival float. Throw us something, Casey! 12: Miss Alabama 2025, Emma Terry was a great addition to the GS Mardi Gras parade. 13: Gulf Shores High School’s NJROTC marching in the Gulf Shores parade. 14: Here comes the Maidens of Mischief float! Purple represents royalty in Mardi Gras.

15: Freda Butler of Southern Palms Décor & Furniture, accepted the award for Best Interior Decorator! 16: Swiger-Studio was voted Best Art Studio. JD Swiger was voted best photographer and best-real-estate-photographer. SO-PROUD! 17: Candice Martinez of Trippy Hippie Travel Company was voted Best Travel Agent. Congratulations Candice! 18: Pura Vida Pilates was voted the Best Yoga/Pilates Studio. Congratulations to their amazing instructors. 19: Zavro’s was voted Best Boutique and Best Women’s Clothing. We couldn’t be prouder! 20: King & King taking home two awards. Best Law Firm & Best Civil Attorney. WAY-TO-GO 21: Island Glow was voted Best-Tanning-Studio. We love a mobile custom tan! Congratulations ladies!

22: Nikki McNab Aesthetics won again! Best Laser Skin Care Services in Baldwin County. 23: Southern Palms Décor & Furniture of Orange Beach, was voted Best- -Furniture-Store and Best-Beach-Nautical-Themed Store. 24, 28: OB Church held their annual Galentine’s Dinner at MileMarker. We love this event! 25: Tori Drago won the Island-Spirit- Award. She was nominated for going above and beyond! 26: The Island Spirit Committee selfie-ready. We love serving our community. 27: The Coastal Edit held their CABC-ribbon-cutting. Call Emilie to help you declutter, organize, and purge.

5 p.m. Doors Open, Live Music & Silent Auction begin

6:30 p.m. Delicious Surf and Turf plated dinner is served

7:00 p.m. Awards celebration begins

INVESTING Where It Counts

COASTAL MERCHANT SERVICES

Since 2007, Coastal Merchant Services has grown from a small local operation into one of the most trusted payment processing partners along the Gulf Coast and beyond. Founded by longtime local Cole Baas and led operationally by Ed Delmore, the company now supports businesses across more than 30 states, with an estimated $450 million in processing volume projected for 2026.

That level of scale sends a clear message: no business is too big, and no business is too small. From high-volume hospitality groups and beachside restaurants to local retailers, service providers, and growing multi-location operators, Coastal Merchant Services delivers more than payment processing. They provide stability, infrastructure, and real-world support that businesses can rely on every single day. The difference is simple. They are here. When something goes wrong during a packed summer weekend, you are not routed through layers of automated prompts or transferred across time zones. You are speaking with someone who understands the Gulf Coast, understands seasonality, and understands what is at stake when your systems are down.

After all, why call an 800 number when you can call 251? That local presence is backed by a team that takes pride in solving problems quickly and quietly.

Deployment Manager Matthew Owen plays a critical role in that effort, known across the region for turning emergency situations into non-emergencies for businesses on a daily basis. Whether it is a last-minute hardware failure, connectivity issue, or operational disruption, Matthew and the Coastal team move fast to keep businesses running.

Behind the scenes, Coastal Merchant Services also works closely with its risk and underwriting partners based in Las Vegas, creating a powerful balance between local, hands-on service and national-level processing infrastructure. This combination allows the company to move efficiently, protect merchants, and support businesses at every stage of growth. Choosing a non-local processor when operating on the Gulf Coast is a bit like driving your car to Boston for an oil change. Could you do it? Sure. But why would you, when experienced, trusted support is right here at home?

Coastal Merchant Services is built on accessibility, accountability, and long-term relationships. The team works directly with business owners, operators, and accounting teams to ensure payment environments run smoothly and efficiently. Processing is simply the foundation. What they truly provide is partnership.

If you want to understand what sets Coastal Merchant Services apart, just ask around. From hundreds of businesses to municipalities to local mom and pop shops, they are trusted because they stand behind their work and stay present long after installation day. In an industry increasingly dominated by distant call centers and faceless fintech brands, Coastal Merchant Services remains locally owned, locally operated, and locally accountable.

Having witnessed the challenges businesses faced in managing payments, Cole decided to take the plunge and address these needs.

When you choose a payment processor, you are choosing a partner tied directly to your revenue stream. Who processes your payments matters. And if you are going to trust someone with your business, trust someone who is already here.  Make your next step in business, your best step in business and call Coastal Merchant Services today. The team is ready to assist you in developing a plan for processing that works and service that can be counted on. No matter how large or small your business needs are, Coastal Merchant Services is here to help.

They understand tourism cycles, storm preparation, seasonal staffing, and the pressures local businesses face during peak demand. They know the difference between a normal night and a festival weekend. And when challenges arise, they respond in real time because they live and work in the same communities they serve.

Coastal Merchant Services Inc

1240 Commerce Dr. Suite B Gulf Shores, AL  Ph: 251.255.2454 www.cardreads.com

https://www.facebook.com/ thecoastalmerchantservices

Embracing the Golf Cart

LIFESTYLE ALONG THE

Living along our area of The Gulf is a dream for families and retirees seeking a slower pace, where laughter fills the air and every spring day feels like a celebration. Picture this: the scent of blooming flowers wafts through the warm breeze as you pack the kids for a quick trip to the grocery store or a delicious meal at a local favorite. Instead of battling traffic, you hop into your golf cart, embracing the joy of the journey.

Golf carts have become an integral part of life here, enhancing the coastal experience with easy access to local restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Families can cruise to the beach, enjoy sunset rides, and explore the new entertainment district, all while making cherished memories. Riding along the scenic roads, you can feel the sun on your face and hear the sound of laughter as children wave to neighbors and friends.

“The golf cart lifestyle transforms ordinary errands into joyful excursions. From outings with family and friends to dining, concerts, errands, and shopping, this lifestyle is luxurious.”

The latest models, like the Voyager Commander and EZGO Express, offer features such as Apple CarPlay and premium seating, ensuring comfort and fun for every outing. These carts are designed for families, making it easier to transport kids, pets, and beach gear. As the community leans toward sustainability, electric golf carts are gaining popularity, providing a zero-maintenance option that fits perfectly with the laid-back lifestyle.

Riding in a golf cart isn’t just practical; it embodies the spirit of The Gulf, where every day is an adventure waiting to unfold. Whether you’re heading to The Wharf Marina for a day on the water, or stopping by local shops like Rouses for fresh seafood, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride through the neighborhood, the golf cart lifestyle transforms ordinary errands into joyful excursions that everyone loves.

GSPS

POPULAR GOLF CART MODELS:

• Voyager Patriot 72V Lithium: Known for its durability and efficiency.

• Voyager Commander Forward Facing: A new addition offering advanced features.

• EZGO Express 4 and 6 Models: Equipped with infotainment centers for added enjoyment.

• Yamaha Quiet Tech Golf Carts: Perfect for a serene ride around the neighborhood.

TIPS FOR GOLF CART OWNERS:

• Maintain Battery Health: Regularly check and charge your batteries to ensure optimal performance.

• Keep Your Cart Clean: Routine cleaning not only keeps your cart looking great but also extends its lifespan.

• Check Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with community rules regarding golf cart usage for safety and compliance.

BEST LOCAL SPOTS ACCESSIBLE BY GOLF CART:

• Oso: A local favorite for casual dining and live music.

• Shipps: Enjoy fresh seafood and friendly atmosphere.

• The Wharf: A vibrant hub for shopping and entertainment.

• Coastal: Perfect for a quick bite or coffee.

• Rouses & Publix: Convenient for groceries and essentials.

Cruise to the beach, pack a cooler, and enjoy a day on the water, soaking in the sights and sounds.

ARTICLE BY CROSSAN RYALS PHOTOGRAPHY BY RYALS GROUP WEALTH MANAGEMENT

INVEST IN Yourself

DEFINING SUCCESS ON YOUR TERMS

Every woman’s version of success looks different. For some, it’s turning a passion project into a thriving business. For others, it’s getting the keys to a new home, exploring unseen corners of the world, or treating the grandkids to a magical week at Disney. It can also be the quiet confidence in knowing you have options, even when life shifts unexpectedly. What each woman is working toward may vary, and that’s the point. There’s no single finish line because the real question isn’t what you want; it’s why you want it. Your “why” is the foundation of every financial decision you’ll ever make. Too often, investing gets reduced to charts, percentages, and projections. Those numbers matter, but they’re only one part of the picture. At its heart, investing is about building a life you’re excited to live and confident you can sustain. It’s about choice, freedom, and flexibility. It’s about being able to say yes.

“Your “why” is the foundation of every financial decision you’ll ever make.” - Crossan Ryals

One of my goals is simple: I want to say yes more often. When a friend invited me to her wedding in Italy, I didn’t want my first thought to be, “Can I afford this?” I wanted it to be, “Absolutely. When do we leave?” In that moment, I realized financial preparedness isn’t about the dollar amount on a spreadsheet. It’s about removing hesitation from the moments that matter. With a bit of planning and the start of my “travel fund,” I watched my best friend marry the love of her life overlooking Lake Como.

For many women, saying yes isn’t just about travel or adventure. It’s about being present when someone you love needs you most. Women often care for aging parents, support partners through transitions, help with grandchildren, or step in for loved ones during difficult seasons. That role can be meaningful but also emotionally, physically, and financially demanding, especially when responsibilities arrive unexpectedly. A financial cushion doesn’t eliminate the weight of caregiving, but it does create space to navigate those moments with steadiness and compassion.

Being financially prepared doesn’t erase challenges, but it creates breathing room. It allows you to focus on loved ones without the added stress of managing sudden expenses or shifts in income. Preparedness gives you the space to navigate life’s hardest moments with grace.

That’s the real power of investing: it allows you to shape your future instead of simply reacting to it. Take time to define your why and think about the moments you don’t want to miss, the opportunities you want to embrace, and the freedom you want to protect. Investing isn’t just about growing wealth. It’s about building confidence, creating security, and designing a life that reflects your values and priorities. When you prepare intentionally and align your resources with your vision, you give yourself the ability to meet life’s invitations. Invest in yourself, and when the call comes, you’ll be ready to say yes.

Eyecare Innovations

Advances in eye-care research and diagnostic technology continue to expand our understanding of disease processes and improve treatment options. Significant progress in ocular surface disease, myopia management, and dry age-related macular degeneration (dARMD) has led to meaningful changes in how we diagnose and care for patients.

Myopia Management. The FDA recently cleared Stellest® lenses by Essilor® to help slow the progression of myopia in children. Myopia rates have risen steadily over the past 50 years, with an estimated 30% of children

currently affected and projections nearing 40% by 2050. Clinical studies show Stellest® lenses can reduce myopia progression by up to 67%. Additional treatment options include orthokeratology, specially designed daily soft contact lenses, and low-dose atropine eye drops. Dr. Wilder evaluates each child individually to determine the most appropriate management plan.

Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration.  For many years, dry ARMD management has focused on lifestyle modifications, nutritional supplements, smoking cessation, and close monitoring. While treatments for wet ARMD have advanced, options for slowing dry ARMD progression have been limited—until recently. The FDA has now authorized Low Light Level Therapy (LLLT), a form of photobiomodulation that supports healthier retinal function. Coastal Family Eyecare is pleased to offer LLLT as a safe, noninvasive option that may reduce progression and, in some cases, help reverse early damage, lowering the risk of conversion to wet ARMD.

Ocular Surface Disease / Dry Eye Disease Often referred to broadly as dry eye disease, ocular surface disease is a complex condition that can cause burning, itching, watering, fluctuating vision, irritation, and pain. Because the tear film is intricate, Dr. Wilder performs a comprehensive evaluation that includes assessing oil and water balance, eyelid structure and function, inflammation, allergies, rosacea, environmental influences, and systemic contributors.

Treatment options range from traditional therapies—such as lubricants, lid hygiene, punctal plugs, and topical or oral medications—to advanced interventions including amniotic membranes, LLLT, IPL, serum tears, and scleral lenses. Although dry eye cannot be cured, early and consistent treatment is essential to prevent long-term damage and preserve quality of life.

Advancements in Treatments and Technologies

ARTICLE BY CLARE L WILDER, OD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY COASTAL FAMILY EYECARE

ARTICLE BY DUSTY KING | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KING & KING PLC

King & King

Protecting your Business and Your Legacy

PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS: THE IMPORTANCE OF TRUSTBASED ESTATE PLANNING

Entrepreneurs are accustomed to managing risk, focusing on cash flow, customer concentration, and market fluctuations. However, a critical risk often overlooked is the potential inability of the owner to run the business due to illness, injury, or death. For many small businesses, the owner is the business. If that individual is sidelined, the consequences can be severe.

The Need for Estate Planning

Trust-based estate planning, combined with a solid business succession plan, protects both the company and its stakeholders. Rather than postponing this essential task, estate planning should be considered a vital business strategy that evolves as the company grows.

Continuity Over Inheritance

A common misconception is that estate planning only matters upon death. In reality, incapacity often poses a greater threat. A business can survive the loss of an owner if a plan is in place. Trust-based planning creates a clear chain of command, allowing someone else to step in smoothly, ensuring bills are paid, payroll is processed, and important decisions are made without the chaos of court involvement.

Early-Stage Businesses: Avoiding Fragility

In the early days of a business, owners often wear many hats. They handle banking, contracts, and decision-making, making the business efficient yet fragile. If a founder becomes incapacitated, operations can grind to a halt, potentially leading to unpaid employees, disrupted vendor deliveries, and lost customer confidence. Basic planning, including a financial power of attorney, is a good start but often needs more coordination with LLC operating agreements or corporate bylaws. Naming a backup manager or using a revocable living trust can help maintain seamless operations.

Established Businesses: Long-Term Planning

As businesses mature, their value and complexity increase. Estate planning shifts from daily authority to long-term outcomes, addressing who will run the business and how family members will be supported. Trust-based planning allows for structured management of ownership, preventing conflict among heirs. Key person life insurance can also stabilize the business during transitions.

Avoiding the “Frozen Business” Scenario

One significant risk is a business becoming stuck in limbo due to probate delays, multiple heirs, and unclear authority. Properly funded trusts can avoid probate,

“For many small businesses, the owner is the business. If that individual is sidelined, the consequences can be severe.”

allowing immediate action. Clear governance enhances the business’s attractiveness to buyers or investors.

Planning for Retirement and Exit Strategies

As entrepreneurs approach retirement, estate planning focuses on transition. Trusts can manage sale proceeds, distributions, and provide ongoing protection. For family or employee buyouts,

trusts facilitate gradual transitions with built-in safeguards, resulting in a deliberate exit rather than a rushed handoff.

Effective estate plans for entrepreneurs recognize that the business is the driving force behind everything else. Trust-based estate planning, paired with a thoughtful succession plan, ensures business continuity, protects families, and gives owners control over their eventual departure.

Redefining MVP: TIM TEBOW’S LIFE BEYOND FOOTBALL

An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.

A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.

Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?

A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.

Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?

A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.

Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?

A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.

“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”

Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?

A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”

Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?

A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.

This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.

New Beginnings, Air-Pro Services

A Commitment to Excellence

In 2024, Ren and Sheerie Lawson took a significant step. They chose to become the new owners of Air Pro Services in Gulf Shores. Their journey to this moment wasn’t just about finding a place to live; it was about upholding a legacy built by Rusty Stopp, who has been a pillar of the HVAC industry for over 30 years. Rusty founded Air Pro Services 13 years ago, earning a stellar reputation through integrity and word-of-mouth excellence. As he prepared for retirement at 75, the Lawsons felt a calling to continue the work of someone so highly regarded in the community.

Ren’s path to Gulf Shores began at 18 when he joined the United States Navy. His time as an electrician aboard the USS Lewis and Clark instilled a strong sense of teamwork and a passion for problem-solving. After years in the wireless industry and managing commercial mechanical

divisions for Meta, Ren found himself at a crossroads at age 60. Through prayer and reflection, it became clear that returning to business ownership was the right choice.

The Lawsons aim to merge Ren’s technical expertise with the solid foundation Rusty laid. In just eight months, they have expanded their team from one lead technician to five dedicated employees and added two new service vehicles for quicker response times. They’ve also launched a new website to enhance visibility for new neighbors. Despite embracing the digital age, their commitment to the loyal referrals and integrity that Rusty practiced remains unchanged. Ren and Sheerie are excited to serve the finest builders, property managers, and homeowners in Gulf Shores, looking forward to keeping the community comfortable for years to come.