The Community Round Table & 251 NOW with Kelly Finley
By Kelly Finley
"251 NOW with Kelly Finley" is a show about what's happening in the city, businesses you need to know about, local artists, restaurants to visit, health, finance, wellness, community leaders making a positive difference, vibrant topics you and your family and friends are talking about, NOW!
The Community Round Table & 251 NOW with Kelly FinleyMar 05, 2023
251 NOW with Kelly Finley-- The JMH "Lets Get It" 5k, in memory of PFC Justin Hasty benefiting The Wounded Warrior Project & Semper Fi Fund
Sandy Mai Hasty
PFC Justin Hasty's mom & Event organizer
JMH Lets Get It 5k
March 18th--Mobile, AL (Our headquarters will be The Paint Store located at 2051 Airport Blvd, Mobile, AL. 36606 with our race time at 10am.)
Our mission: Remembering & honoring my son with donations made to The Wounded Warrior Project & The America's Fund
*This is our 10th event!
*We still gathered AND raised money all during Covid
*Our 9 year fundraising total is $147,616.00 - an average of $16,400 per year!
*People travel from Missouri, California, North Carolina, Michigan & Florida to participate.
*We are the only local fundraiser for The Wounded Warrior Project & The America's Fund
Stay Connected:
www.Jmhletsgetit.com
(251) 423-7210
Address: 418 Coventry Way, Mobile, AL
The Community Round Table--The American Red Cross & how easy it is to help save lives!
American Red Cross Blood Services
Shatina Nwosu
Sickle Cell Account Manager | Donor Recruitment
Mission: The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.
We discuss:
What is sickle cell disease?
How do blood transfusions help sickle cell patients
Reasons we are not able to donate.
How can the community help?
Stay connected:
Shatina.Nwosu@RedCross.org
(205) 644-3247
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--13 annual Optimist Pancake Breakfast! All you can eat menu for $10! March 25th 8A-12P
Guest:
William Burks
Pastor Lloyd Michael Austin
All you can eat: Pancakes, waffles, grits, eggs, bacon, sausage, fried fish, fried chicken, biscuits, fresh fruit and so much more.
Live entertainment: Alvin King and the 5th K’nection Jazz Band.
Free: Hair cuts, Covid 19 testing, Covid 19 vaccine and voter registration.
Pancake eating contest and door prizes!
Tickets are $10
For tickets & donations contact: William L. Burks III at 251-232-8181
Tickets may also be purchased: bgcsouthal.org/pancake
This is an Outside Event
Masks are Required
Saturday, March 25 8AM - 12 PM
Optimist Boys & Girls Club
1517 Plaza Drive Mobile, AL 36605
**Set to close Sept 2023
The Community Round Table--One Meal Mobile
"We help anyone anywhere in Alabama. We don't care where they live nor how much money they make. If they're in need just show up."
Michelle Stewart, President/CEO
One Meal Mobile
We help anyone anywhere in Alabama. We don't care where they live nor how much money they make. If they're in need just show up.
We're serving 2000 people monthly 900 of them are 60+ years old.
600+ are under 18 and 500 are recurring every Friday.
Our mission:
One Meal Mobile is a 501c3 non profit organization that focuses on relieving hunger and serving the homeless and the people of Alabama that are in need.
How can you help?
We need the communities support with getting the word out
Sponsorships, it costs us around $5000.00 monthly
Funding is needed for both bills and food
Prices, inflation, we need recurring monthly donors to be able to buy the food. WE are teamed up with feeding the Gulf Coast we just buy it by the pound at a lesser cost then the grocery stores.
Stay Connected:
Message on our Facebook page
www.facebook.com/onemealmobile
Phone number
251-622-3460
Physical address
1120 Joaneen Dr suite D Saraland Al
Mailing address
Po box 172
Chunchula Al 36521
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--John 9:3 Foundation
Guest:
JD Drinkard
Executive Director
John 9:3 Foundation
We discuss:
Retired US Army
Started a nonprofit to help others going through similar circumstances
Working with Roads of Hope in Eastern Europe for the past year taking care of Ukrainian orphan refugees
Launching an adaptive sports program and will compete at the national championship tournament in Birmingham, AL for wheelchair basketball
Our mission: To share the Gospel of Christ through the platforms in which we have been given.
Stay Connected:
https://www.facebook.com/john93foundation?mibextid=LQQJ4d https://www.facebook.com/johnddrinkard?mibextid=LQQJ4d
www.john93foundation.com
jddrinkard@john93foundation.com
(251) 298-7346
The Community Round Table--Many More Miles & "Deliver Hope"!
Guests:
Pam Denham, Founder, Many More Miles, Baldwin Bone & Joint
Genna VanVarden, Outreach Coordinator, City Hope Church
o For the 19th year, Baldwin Bone & Joint, P.C. will host this important community
outreach project, and again partnering with Baldwin County Public Schools –
contributors of over 85% of shoes donated. For the second consecutive year, the local
orthopaedic practice will partner with City Hope Church to achieve excellence in
distribution of shoes to those in need.
o Since its inception, response to the campaign has grown from 200 pairs donated in 2004
to a record-breaking 2,728 pairs contributed most recently. Shoe donations for 2023 are
being accepted now, with final shoe drop-offs received at the 2023 Azalea Trail Run on
Saturday, March 25, in Mobile, Ala.
o Baldwin County students will once again be rewarded for collecting the highest number
of shoes with money for their schools’ new P.E. equipment. Baldwin Bone & Joint will
award cash prizes to P.E. programs to the top three Baldwin County Public Schools who
donate the most shoes. In addition, the class that brings in the most shoes overall will
receive a Chick-fil-a party and the teacher will be awarded a cash prize provided by City
Hope Church.
o Organizations who will benefit from the collected shoes this year include:
BCBE school closets
Fostering Together Gulf Coast
Local DHR donation
McKemie Place, Mobile
The Shoulder, Spanish Fort
Waterfront Rescue Mission, Foley
Teen Challenge, Bay Minette
Foster Families participating in Foster Care Awareness Walk – USA Intramural Fields
– Saturday, May 6
o Those interested in participating are encouraged to clean up those gently used athletic
shoes and any other shoes for all ages; bag or tie them together in pairs before dropping
them off at any of the following locations:
Baldwin Bone and Joint (1505 Daphne Avenue, Daphne)
Office of Dr. Glenn Glass (1303 Main Street, Daphne)
The University of South Alabama Student Recreation Center
McCoy Outdoor Company
White-Spunner Realty (3201 Dauphin Street, Mobile)
Final Drop-off Opportunity: 2023 Azalea Trail Run (March 25)
o In partnership with the ongoing community shoe drive, City Hope Church will host
“Deliver Hope” on Sunday, March 12, where congregants are encouraged to donate
their gently worn shoes to any of the church’s campuses across the Gulf Coast.
Which social media platforms are you on? What's your handle?
Facebook – @baldwinboneandjointpc
Instagram – @baldwinboneandjoint
LinkedIn – baldwin-bone-joint
Twitter – @BaldwinBone
call 251.656.3843 or visit baldwinboneandjoint.com
o Baldwin Bone & Joint, PC, 1505 Daphne Avenue, Daphne, AL 36526
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Mardi Gras Do’s & Don'ts courtesy of Senior Trooper Anna Peoples (ALEA)
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Mardi Gras Do’s & Don’ts
(bring your ID, plan a meeting spot, travel in packs)
(Avoid bringing coolers, cans, bottles or backpacks, don’t try to get served if you are a minor, don’t get arrested)
*Mardi Gras 2022 Joe Cain Day ALEA SBI made 42 minor arrests…in 1 day! Officers won’t always been in uniform. There will be plain clothed officers in the area.
We recognize National Passenger Safety Week too.
DYK: Passengers accounted for 62 percent of traffic fatalities nationwide in 2019, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Visit www.nationalpassengersafety.org for more information and tips on passenger safety.
Stay Connected:
Senior Trooper Anna Peoples
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Office of the Secretary
Recruiting Coordinator – PAO / Troop A
3402 Demetropolis Rd.
Mobile, AL 36693
Office (251) 660-2300
The Community Round Table--Monde Donaldson with the BBB helps you avoid scams & has IRS tips to choosing the best person/company to do your taxes
Vice President of Better Business Bureau Educational Foundation
www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/18436-top-tricks-used-to-scam-older-adults
No matter your age, no one is immune to scams. In the most recent 2020 BBB Scam Tracker Risk Report, romance scams continued to be the riskiest scams for ages 55 through 64, and travel/vacation/timeshare scams were again the riskiest for ages 65+. Regardless of the type of scam, BBB recommends the following precautions to avoid becoming a victim.
Tips to spot a potential scam
Watch out for phone fraud. The Federal Trade Commission reports that fraudulent telemarketers often direct their calls at older adults. Scammers will claim to be with a government agent or pose as an bank employee. They may sound friendly and courteous or aggressive and threatening. They may even have a caller ID to match their claims.
However, caller IDs can be easily spoofed and government agencies DON’T make unsolicited calls. It is vital to cultivate a healthy distrust for unsolicited callers and avoid sharing personal information. Never feel pressured to act. When in doubt, hang up the phone and call the official source to verify unexpected or unusual claims. You can also reduce the number of unsolicited calls by registering your phone number with the National Do-Not-Call registry at 1-888-382-1222 or Donotcall.gov.
Know the red flags. Most scammers use common tactics to get your money or personal information. Keep an eye out for the following too-good-to-be-true claims:
“Free,” “low cost,” or “buy one, get one” deal
Request for unusual payment types (i.e. prepaid debit cards or wired funds)
Claims that you only pay postage or administrative fees
Pressure to act now and/or aggressive tones
Deals that must be secured with a credit card or bank account information
Sure-fire investment opportunities
Charities that send 100% of your donation directly to the victims
Only hire trustworthy, licensed contractors.
Strange phone call? Might be an emergency scam:
Watch out for Medicare fraud:
Do your research before making an investment:Think before you click.
Be on guard for “sweetheart” swindles.
Reach out to someone you trust.
Take time to research your purchases.
Guard your personal information carefully. For More Information
www.bbb.org/article/news-releases/21492-bbb-tip-how-to-choose-a-tax-preparer-us
This year, United States taxpayers must file their income tax forms before the April 18, 2023 deadline. For many people, major life changes, business ownership, or simply a lack of knowledge about the ever-changing tax laws make finding a trustworthy tax preparer a good idea. That said, not all tax preparers have the same level of experience and training. Here are tips for finding someone you can trust with your finances and sensitive personal information.
Which type of tax preparer is right for you?
First, it’s important to understand the different types of tax preparers and their qualifications. Only enrolled agents, certified public accounts, and attorneys may represent their clients to the IRS on matters such as audits, collection issues, and appeals.
Enrolled Agent (EA):
Certified Public Accountants (CPA):
Attorneys:
Non-Credentialed tax preparers:
Most tax preparers are legitimate and competent, but keep in mind that without a national license requirement, they may be working off of their own personal research and experience. Because of this, it is important you conduct a thorough interview with the tax preparer before you hire them.
How to choose the right tax preparer:
When it comes to choosing the right kind of tax preparer for you personally, much will depend on the complexity of your tax situation. After you’ve decided what qualifications your tax preparer needs, the following tips will help you choose someone who is trustworthy and competent:
Review the tax preparer’s credentials.
Be wary of spectacular promises.
Get referrals from fr
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Infirmary Health Systems: voted “Best places to work and the top healthcare system employer in the state of Alabama"!
Ashley Rains, Marketing Coordinator, Infirmary Health Systems
We discuss:
Our mission is to treat our patients with a focus on LIFE. This acronym embodies Infirmary Health’s core values of serving our community with a focus on Leadership, Integrity, Family and Excellent Service
- Infirmary Health is the largest non-governmental, not-for-profit healthcare system in Alabama. IH is comprised of three acute care hospitals, one post-acute care hospital, two rehabilitation hospitals, three ambulatory surgery centers, more than 60 physician practice locations and other affiliates.
- Infirmary Health earned recognition as one of the “Best places to work and the top healthcare system employer in the state of Alabama,” according to the 2022 America’s Best-in-State Employers list released by Forbes magazine. iHire events at all three hospitals every Thursday for clinical and non-clinical positions (from TMSG).
- Puppies! Through our Patient Experience team, we’ve developed Paws 4 Life, a pet therapy program at all three hospitals with Pet Partner volunteers.
- Speaking of volunteers, our hospitals have exciting volunteer opportunities.
- New partnerships in orthopaedic, new technology, new growth in Mobile and Baldwin Counties.
Stay Connected:
InfirmaryHealth.org
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn: @Infirmary Health and personally, @AshleyHRains
The Community Round Table--The Excelsior Band turns 140 years old!! Happy Mardi Gras!
My guests:
Hosea London, Excelsior Band Leader
Jerryln London, London Entertainment Group
Willie Dinish III, The Black Ink Coalition, Owner
We discuss:
The significance and some of the celebration plans for year 140
Excelsior Band Preservation (non profit organization)
The Excelsior Band Project (Archives Project)
JAWS Fest 2023
JAWS Youth at JPAR is now until February 2023
Stay Connected:
Website:http://www.excelsiorband1883.com/
Fundraising Platform: https://gofund.me/cda8063d
Project Contact: excelsiorbandproject@gmail.com
The Black Ink Coalition
(251) 648-4942
Website: https://www.theblackinkcoalition.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBlackInkCoalition
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theblackinkcoalition
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUTH33hOgHc5fY7o5if5iDg
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--5th Annual Spirit of Our Ancestors Festival, An Ocean In My Bones
5th Annual Spirit of Our Ancestors Festival
Director: Terrence Spivey
Actress: Jessica Fairley/Warrior Iwinosa/Deborah Plant
We discuss:
The evolving of An Ocean in My Bones
Mobile Talent
Originating the role of Warrior Iwinosa
Also acting in the role of Deborah Plant, the writer of Barracoon
Native to the area with close ties to the descendants.
How it’s a ministry to tell this story.
Karamu House (former artistic director of the oldest black theatre in the country)
Stay Connected:
Instagram: tex_mix/Facebook: Terrence Spivey/LinkedIn: Terrence Spivey
Facebook: Jessica Fairley/Facebook Messenger
An Ocean in My Bones" February 4-5, 2023 on ancestral grounds, Mobile County Training School. The house the ancestors built in 1880 in Africatown.
Reserve Your Festival Tickets for "Ocean in My Bones" and the award-winning film "Descendant"
https://theclotildastory.com/events/
The Community Round Table--Senior Bowl, Jim Nagy
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine
We discuss:
Violent Crime Stats 2022 compared 2021
What's changed? Police department? Citizens involvement?
Violent Crimes as it relates to ganglike activity
Mardi Gras 2023 as it relates to public safety and enforcement
New Year's Eve shooting
Women in law enforcement
How Maj Timms is making history
Recruiting new officers
How the police department communicates with the community
MPD Mission:
To make the city of Mobile the safest city in America, with respect for everyone.
Stay connected:
Chief Paul Prine's Office
2460 Government Blvd
Mobile, Al 36606
251 208 1704
Non police emergencies 251 208 7211
The Nextdoor APP ~ Mobile Police Department
Twitter @MobileALPolice
Facebook Mobile Police Department
Webpage www.mobilepd.org and click contact us to leave message
The Community Round Table--Meet GOFF with Pikkihead Militia
Stephen Andrews AKA GOFF
Founder & CEO of Talus Entertainment/Pikkihead Militia
We discuss:
Goff's journey from Jamaica to California to Mobile, AL
Why a portion of the groups proceeds go toward raising awareness about Domestic Violence and how you can give back too.
What type of instruments make up the group and how did their love of music lead to starting Pikkihead Militia and what the groups name means?
Their hit song, "Defending You"
Stay connected:
Social Media platforms IG - @pikkihead_militia
FB - @pikkiheadmilitia
Youtube - @pikkiheadmilitia
Website - pikkiheadmilitia.com
Telephone 251-401-1109
Catch a live performance:
Zion Sundays, every other Sunday at Flavas Hookah Bar and Lounge located in Prichard, AL with Pikkihead Militia as a special guest artist,
You can expect live music/performance and a DJ to keep the vibes going, great food dishes and fun cocktails.
"Only $10 entry fee, so come have a conscious Sunday with us."
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Mobile Mask
Meet Steve Joynt
Mobile Mask
We discuss:
The pandemic and its effects on last year and this year.
New Orleans and their struggles with police numbers, what about us?
And lets talk about the Widows - it took me 10 years to get that story.
Pick up your copy today
The Community Round Table--33rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast
Guest: Reverend David Edwards
Port City Chapter Announces 33 rd Annual Dr. MLK Jr. Memorial Breakfast
Tickets are on sale now for the 33rd Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Breakfast,
sponsored by the Port City Chapter of Blacks in Government, Inc. The event is scheduled for Monday,
January 16, 2023, at 8:30 am at a new location - “The Calirojae,” 1004 Dauphin Island Parkway, Mobile,
AL 36605.
This year’s speaker is Reverend David L. Frazier, Sr., Pastor of Revelation Baptist Church, Mobile, Ala.
He also serves as moderator of the Mobile Baptist Sunlight District Association. His other affiliations
include NAACP, SCLC, National Baptist Convention, Selma University Trustee Board Member, Sunlight
District Association Supervisor of Pastor’s Division, Alabama State Baptist Congress of Christian
Education, Chairman Boys and Girls Clubs of South Alabama Board of Directors, and other religious and
civic organizations.
Tickets are $30 each or $300 for a table of ten. Contact Gwendolyn Hall, ticket chair at (251) 377-6554 or
portcitybig@yahoo.com. Corporate sponsorships are available now, but space is limited so please respond
by Wednesday, January 6, 2023. Contact Queen Daniels at (251) 591-8973 or portcitybig@yahoo.com
Funds from this event support our chapter’s activities, including community outreach programs,
scholarships, professional development, and training. Port City Chapter is a non-profit 501(c)(3)
organization
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Picking the right pediatrician for your family! Meet Carey McDade Hancock, MD...
Victory Pediatrics
Dr. Carey McDade Hancock
Owner/Pediatrician
1. I am a local Mobilian who wanted to be an example to others. I was raised in a single family home and was the first of my family to attend college and professional school. My message to young people: Don’t let your circumstances dictate your future. You decide (with the help of God) your future.
2. Promote children’s health through a “VIP experience” (we have a stethoscope in our logo). No one likes to feel like just another number, especially when it comes to your children’s health and needs. You want to know that you’re receiving great care with a family vibe to the atmosphere.
3. Victory- refers to 1 Cor 15:57- But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. In everything, I’ve had to trust in God to lead me, guide me, teach me, comfort me, etc. He gave me victory, and I want to extend that victory to my patients and families in the way of delivering the best healthcare, that my patients and families feel victorious in their health.
Victory Pediatrics
3929 Airport Blvd, Suite 2-413 (in Mobile, right behind Red Lobster in building 2 of Mobile Office Park)
Stay connected:
On Facebook: Victory Pediatrics
Website is www.victorypeds.com
251-301-1822
The Community Round Table--US Small Business Administration
Meet Brent E McMahan, Senior Area Manager, US SBA-AL
We discuss:
US Small Business Administration
Mission, roles, organization and duties
How to start a business
Common missteps
Filing your taxes
Organizational structure
Free help online/in person
Statewide assistance
Stay connected:
Our district mailbox is: alabama.districtoffice@sba.gov.
Email: brent.mcmahan@sba.gov.
1141 Montlimar Drive, Suite 1007, Mobile, AL 36609
Landline: 251-544-7401
Cell: 251-490-8638
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Holiday beauty secrets with twin Mobile natives on a mission to promote healthy hair & skin!
Roxane Lucas / Rox Your Beauty
Rosalind Williams/ Snabes Hair Studio
We discuss:
Longevity in the beauty industry
Selfcare
Tips for clients and for hairstylists entering the beauty industry
Stay Connected:
Rox Your Beauty on Instagram ,Tik Tok, Roxane Lucas on Facebook
Website www.roxxyourbeauty.com (251) 716-7721
Snabes Hair Studio (251)716-8368
809 Wildwood Dr.
Mobile, AL 36693
The Community Round Table--PowerLines Poetry/The Order of Mystic Poets Mardi Gras Ball
Roslyn Spencer aka "Catharsis Tha Poet"
We discuss:
- When/How did PowerLines start as an organization?
- Awards
- Community partners
- Organizations we work with
- What made us want to start our Order of Mystic Poets Mardi Gras Ball?
- Everyone is invited!
- The theme for the 2023 Order of Mystic Poets Mardi Gras Ball is "A Life Changing Event" and how a very integral member of the group is remembered.
Social Media Platforms:
- Facebook - PowerLines Poetry
- Instagram - PowerLines Poets
- Website - powerlinespoetry.com
Best way for audience to reach us:
- Email - Powerlinespoets@gmail.com
- Website: powerlinespoetry.com
- Phone/text: 251-333-9097
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Meet new Author Joi West Phalo, a Mobile native and a mom/wife/entrepreneur with a book for teens, tweens & adults!
Joi West Phalo- Author/ Influencer
Founder of She Changes Everything
We discuss:
The book 15.19.23.
The purpose of the book, the audience and teenage mothers & young adults
MY Journal She Changes Everything
The purpose of the journal, and importance for writing
Stay Connected:
Facebook, Joi West Phalo
(25) 219-8502
The Community Round Table--UCP of Mobile is giving away $10,000!!! Wayne & Jennifer have details of how your raffle tickets will help thousands of local families!
Jennifer Cooley, Director of Marketing & Development
Wayne Dean, Special Events Coordinator
We discuss:
1 Give It Up for UCP - a new way to give up something as a New Year's Resolution and give that money to UCP.
2.A new Fundraiser beginning the first of the year and running through St. Patrick's Day - Pot of Gold $10,000 Raffle
3.Only 500 tickets sold - Early Bird Drawings for $750 February 24; March 3; March 10 and March 17, Names reentered to win the Grand Prize Drawing on March 18 live on Facebook from Callahan;'s. Do not be present to win.
4 All proceeds benefit UCP of Mobile programs for children and adults in south Alabama
5 BTW when you get all those new TVs, computers, games, phones for Christmas, UCPs Ecycling Program will gladly take your old things to recycle to benefit our clients
Stay Connected:
3058 Dauphin Square Connector
Mobile, AL 36607
development@ucpmobile.org
(251) 479-4900
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile, chatting with the new Director of Development, Diana Brewer
Diana Brewer/Development Director/Ronald McDonald House Charities of Mobile
We discuss:
- Overview of who we are, what we do, why, and for whom
- What families who stay with us can expect during their stay
- Ways to support Ronald McDonald House of Mobile during the holidays—Holiday Wish List; Deck the Doors; Annual Fund
- Red Shoe Society
The Family Rooms are located on the third and fourth floors of the USA Children’s and Women’s Hospital tower and serve as a place of peaceful respite and possess a warm and friendly atmosphere for families to use while remaining merely steps away from their child’s bedside.
Take a peek inside our home away from homeRonald McDonald House Charities of Mobile is a safe haven for families, this is where those families stay and receive the care they need.
Fun Events: Deck the doors, Bunnyhop, Rubber Ducky Regatta, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun. You can donate a vehicle or adopt a room and sign up to give monthly. Amazon Smile and Round Up
Stay Connected:
Facebook: rmhcmobile
Instagram: @rmhcmobile
The Community Round Table--Behind The Scenes with Darwin Singleton! We talk, we laugh, we reminisce about our time as co anchors and Darwin's radio/TV journey to Mobile & being Mr. Mardi Gras!
About Darwin Singleton:
2023 marks Darwin's 43rd year of either anchoring or reporting television news. Darwin now wakes up the Gulf Coast as co-anchor of NBC15 Today, teaming up with longtime friend and co-anchor Kelly Foster. Darwin will still offer up on-site reporting, as well as the occasional feature segment that has made him a fixture in the Mobile/Pensacola television community since 1987!
Darwin was born in Hazard, Kentucky in the Appalachian Mountains.
He worked in local radio in high school and community college before transferring to the University of Kentucky in Lexington. He then worked in radio in Lexington until 1980, switching to television news.
Darwin served as South Kentucky Bureau reporter and, later, police beat reporter for CBS affiliate WKYT-TV in Lexington. He became weekend anchor in his hometown of Hazard for the CBS affiliate WYMT-TV.
In 1987, tired of the snow and cold of winter, Darwin headed south to the Gulf, landing at the local CBS affiliate in Mobile. Late in 1999, Darwin accepted a position at WPMI NBC15 News as a feature reporter with his popular "Here's Darwin!" reports. In 2014 Darwin made the transition to the a.m. anchor desk, giving him another opportunity to communicate with his loyal viewers.
“When I first came to Mobile, my intention was to stay a couple of years and move on,” he says. “Well, that was 30 years ago! Mobile has shown me amazing support over the past three decades. And I’m proud to see how the city and region has progressed. We’re just now hitting our stride, and it’s a great time to be in Mobile!”
Darwin owns a century-old home in Midtown Mobile, in the city's Old Dauphin Way Historic District. He’s a huge support of Mobile’s vibrant downtown. And here at NBC15, Darwin’s passion for Carnival has earned him the nickname of Mobile's Mr. Mardi Gras!
Have a story you'd like to share with Darwin email him: dsingleton@mynbc15.com
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--The History Museum of Mobile presents: Dressing the Abbey Exhibition!
Dr. Meg McCrummen Fowler/Director
Melissa Harville/Marketing & Events Manager
We discuss:
- Dressing the Abbey Exhibition Jan 28-April 22, 2023
History Museum of Mobile is excited to announce its next major exhibition, Dressing the Abbey, opening January 28, 2023. Dressing the Abbey weaves fashion, history, and popular culture into an exhibition featuring the wardrobe from Downton Abbey™, one of the most widely watched television dramas in the world.
The exhibition features thirty-five costumes worn by men and women and invites viewers to discover the turbulence of the Edwardian era and the cultural impact of the First World War. From rich country tweeds, to sumptuous evening gowns, to a starched footman's livery, the textiles in this exhibition speak to a transformational moment in art, fashion, design, and history.
- Upcoming events
- Memberships
About the History Museum of Mobile:
The History Museum of Mobile is where Mobile’s story begins! Three sites - the History Museum of Mobile, Colonial Fort Condé, and the Phoenix Fire Museum - bring Mobile’s past to life for tens of thousands of visitors each year.
Start your visit at the History Museum of Mobile, where over 20,000 square feet of exhibit space interpret Mobile’s history from pre-Colonial contact to the modern Port City. Don’t miss the new children’s discovery room, where families can explore a French ship, play real African drums, try on colonial clothing, practice basket weaving, and more! Special exhibitions are always changing, so be sure to check the schedule. Your admission also covers Colonial Fort Condé, a partial reconstruction of the 1723 fort built when the French founded Mobile. And don’t miss the Phoenix Fire Museum, where horse-drawn steam engines and antique ladder trucks bring to life Mobile’s proud history of volunteer firefighting.
In March of 2020, the History Museum of Mobile announced a partnership with the Mobile County Commission, the City of Mobile, the Alabama Historical Commission, and community leaders in Africatown to create a landmark exhibition at the under-construction Africatown Heritage House. The nationally anticipated Clotilda: The Exhibition will tell the story of the people aboard the last slave ship to the United States. The pieces of the Clotilda that have been recovered from the shipwreck will be on display in the exhibition, on loan from the Alabama Historical Commission. The exhibition has been curated, developed, and designed in conjunction with the local community and the wider descendent community, and in consultation with experts around the country. When it opens, History Museum of Mobile will operate the Africatown Heritage House as a fourth site.
The History Museum of Mobile is the five-time recipient of the “Best Museum” Nappie, Mobile Bay’s people’s choice award. In 2021, the museum received two awards for innovative programming: the Main Street Mobile’s Chairman’s Certificate and Visit Mobile’s MOBie. The History Museum of Mobile is proud to co-host the 2024 American Association of State and Local History conference. For more information and museum updates, see the annual report PDF FILE and subscribe to our newsletter.
Stay Connected:
- Facebook @historymuseumofmobile
- Instagram @historymuseumofmobile
The Community Round Table--United Way of Southwest AL & introducing the new "Basics Southwest Alabama". Jill & Deborah have details right now helping thousands of local families.....
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Meet Matt LeMond (POST, O'Daly's, The Insider Food Hall and more!)
If you have ever enjoyed a date night, a good time or a delicious bite to eat in Downtown Mobile then you have most likely "met" Matt before...he is the owner of POST Crafted Cocktails & Wine Bar, POST on the Hill, O'Daly's Irish Pub, the Insider Food Hall, the Outsider Sports Lounge, Cedar Street Social.
We discuss:
- Downtown Development
- Upcoming projects
- Football and upcoming events
- Spring Hill College and encouraging the next generation of business owners
- MoVember
- The importance of Mental Health for men
- And how his famous moustache tattoo is helping to save lives...it's a true conversation starter!
Which social media platforms are you on? What's your handle?
Instagram & Facebook
@theinsiderfoodhall
@outsiderlounge
@postdrinks
@odalysirishpub
@cedarstsocial
The Community Round Table--Kimbertly (Kim) Jones, Author: "Salary Rich and Retirement Poor"
Meet Mobile native Kimbertly (Kim) Jones,
Publisher, Managing Editor & Author, WP Publishing, LLC
We discuss:
- Growing up in Mobile
- The purpose and reasoning behind “Salary Rich and Retirement Poor”?
- Common misconceptions of savings -vs- retirement planning?
- The three things people can do to improve their financial outcomes
- KIMTALKS and upcoming book signing dates
Stay connected:
Website: https://wppublishingllc.com/
- Phone: 800-856-5030
- Email: info@wppublishingllc.com
- Address: 470 Dacula Rd. #211, Dacula, GA 30019
· Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wppublishingllc/
· Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wppublishingllc
· Twitter: https://twitter.com/wppublishingatl
· Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYaLBGdjJWXxQJYHb_Dh9Mw
Media Kit Link:
https://wppublishingllc.com/media-kit/
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--2nd Annual Dia-BEAT IT: Diabetes 5K Run/Walk!
Guest:
Ayla Goodson
Gemini Studioz Empowerment
Founder
The Dia-BEAT IT: Diabetes 5K Run/Walk will be held on November 19, 2022, at Tricentennial Park from 9a-1p.
To make this event a continued success, we need your help!
We would also love for you to form a team or have any of the staff participate as an individual. We've set a $5,000 goal.
Proceeds will go directly toward supporting those with diabetes that are unable to afford medication, resources, and supplies.
Register:
Participants can register at www.GeminiStudioz.com/DiabetesWalk
Follow us: FB: www.Facebook.com/GeminiStudiozEmpowerment
IG: @GeminiStudiozEmpowerment
You can also visit our website Diabetes Walk
Feel free to contact me at 251-554-7507 if you have any questions or concerns.
The Community Round Table--The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama
Guests:
Captain Sheri Jones, Area Commander, The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama
Tony Zodrow, Director of Development, The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama
3-5 bullet points you’d like to discuss?
- Red Kettle Campaign (our largest fundraising campaign of the year, which supports year-round programs and services, kicks off November 11th)
- Register to Ring (a new program offering online registration for individuals and groups to register as bell ringers)
- Angel Tree Adoption (our program for fulfilling Christmas wishes for families/children in need, for which we have record numbers)
- Holiday Meal Service (including the need for food donations to support our efforts to provide meals to the community)
Stay Connected:
The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama is on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SalArmyCoastAL
The Salvation Army of Coastal Alabama’s main number is (251) 438-1625.
Our website address is www.SACoastAL.org. Our street address is 1009 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604.
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Heart of Mary School, the historic school saved by a vote, it's alumni & LOVE!
My guests:
Karlos Finley - Incorporator and President of the School Board of Directors
JeKirra Johnson, Principal of Heart of Mary School
We discuss:
Learning Communities Curriculum
Increased enrollment
Faith based education
Small classes
Volunteer opportunities
Ways the community can get involved and show support
Historic Contributions (Visitors to the school: Oscar DePreist, Muhammad Ali, Ralph David Abernathy, Stokely Carmichael) and; (alumni: Semi Knox, Gary Cooper, Alexis Herman, Walter Bell, Dora Franklin Finley.
Stay connected:
Facebook
heartofmaryk8.org
Instagram
* homschoolmobile
Website:
Address:
310 Sengstak St. Mobile 36603
Phone: 251-432-5270
The Community Round Table--Art Soup, Friday November 11th!
Corrina Murray, Art Soup (Organizer)
Connie Guggenbiller, Love All Pantry at Central (Director)
Art Soup, Nov 11, 6-9 pm, Joachim Street, downtown Mobile during Art Walk
Tickets are available online at loveallpantry.org.
Buying tickets early means you get VIP access to select your hand made bowl at 5:30 pm.
Bowls are made by a dedicated group of local artists, students, and some have been painted by community members from all over the community.
Our goal this year is: $40,000, or 500,000 lbs of food. Help us feed 2000 local families every month for 6 months.
Nearly a quarter of all children in Mobile County (22.4%) and 15% of the total population face food insecurity. That is 65,300 residents including 21,890 local children.
Over 1,000,000 pounds of food was distributed to low-income families in 2021 by Love All Pantry at Central.
Stay Connected:
Facebook: artsoupmobile, loveallpantry Instagram: artsoupmobile, loveallpantry Loveallpantry.org or visit the pantry or Art soup pages on Facebook
1260 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Terri Kearns, Our Sisters' Closet
Our guest: Terri Kearns, founder, Our Sisters' Closet
Purse with a Purpose (November 9th)
Career advancement training
Social service agencies
Job training for more than 10,000 women, men & teens
+70% of OSC clients are hired after visiting
Stay Connected:
www.oursisterscloset.org, 251.423.2001
The Community Round Table--The 7th Annual Bras for a Cause Gulf Coast Gala presented by Southern View Media
Our guest:
Michelle Murrill marketing director and owner of Southern View Media
The event takes place October 26, 2022 at the Locale.
We raise money for local patients fighting cancer (not just breast cancer patients anymore!)
Volunteer opportunities all year!
Stay Connected:
www.Brasforacausegulfcoast.org
Link to the Facebook event https://facebook.com/events/s/7th-annual-bras-for-a-cause-gu/367980515528621/
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--Veronica Bishop; Oak Hollow Farm & Barnwell Community Organization
Veronica Bishop, Public Relations and Event Management
Coastal Alabama Events (Weddings)
Oak Hollow Farm
Veronica Bishop, REALTOR®, Mobile Bay Realty
Volunteer, Barnwell Community Organization (Board of Directors),
Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore
Barnwell Community Day Nov. 5.
Stay Connected:
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/VeronicaBishopRealtor
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/veronicabishoprealtor
Phone number: 251-234-4878
Address: 10 N. Section Street, Fairhope (we share the courtyard with the clock)
The Community Round Table--Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy; a FREE pharmacy available for you & your family!
Our guests:
Shearie Archer, Executive Director
Alvea Bridges, Resource Development Coordinator
Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy
Focus: Letting residents of Mobile, Baldwin, Escambia and Washington Counties know they have a medication safety net and should never have to make the cruel choice of buying food and purchasing medication.
- Why is having a free pharmacy important to our community?
- What services Ozanam Pharmacy provides
- How to gain access to Ozanam Pharmacy
- Who supports Ozanam Pharmacy
- No-Show Gala Fundraiser
Stay Connected:
- Ozanam Charitable Pharmacy | Facebook
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/ozanam-charitable-pharmacy/
- (1189) Ozanam Pharmacy - YouTube
- https://ozanam-charitable-pharmacy-inc.networkforgood.com/projects/76751-ozanam-charitable-pharmacy-10th-annual-no-show-gala
- www.instagram.com/ozanam_pharmacy
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--100 Things To Do In Mobile Before You Die
Author: Jodie Cain Smith
Mobile, Alabama, is proud to be the birthplace of Mardi Gras, but carnival season is just one reason Mobile is a destination city. And 100 Things to Do in Mobile Before You Die is your expert guide to getting around past the Battleship, the cannon, and all of the city’s unique landmarks.
Get tips on where to try the best seafood classics such as flaming oysters, fried crab claws, and West Indies Salad. Tap into an extensive park system offering playgrounds, splash pads, kayaking, fishing, and more, and an art scene to rival cities of any size. This “City of Six Flags” celebrates our diverse culture with historic neighborhoods, unique shopping, art galleries, museums, live music and theater, and one-of-a-kind sporting events—pole vaulting on Dauphin Street, anyone?
Written by a born-and-bred Mobile author and founder of the Mobile Literary Festival, 100 Things to Do in Mobile Before You Die is your guide to the best Mobile has to offer, from family fun at the Exploreum, to invigorating solo escapes on Mobile Bay, and everything in between. Strap on those walking shoes, grab a cold beverage, and devour every delectable morsel found in Mob-Town.
About the Author
Award-winning author and Mobile Literary Festival founder Jodie Cain Smith spent her childhood exploring the shores of Mobile Bay. She is a graduate of the University of South Alabama and Northern Michigan University because earning a degree on both the southern and northern border happened by chance and a bit of study. She is the author of two novels, The Woods at Barlow Bend and Bayou Cresting: The Wanting Women of Huet Pointe. Her short works have appeared in The Petigru Review, Pieces Anthology, and Chicken Soup for the Military Spouse's Soul. When not writing, Jodie hangs out with her long-suffering husband and the most precious little boy ever created. Seriously, the kid is amazing, and the husband puts up with a lot.
TALKING POINTS FROM THE BOOK:
Between the warm climate and wide range of activities, Mobile is a favorite of snow birds seeking sun-drenched recreation, water sports, diverse dining experiences, and relaxing landscapes.
Mobile is a seafood lover’s paradise. Not only can you find fabulous seafood restaurants and markets in nearly every part of Mobile, but the seafood caught, sold, and served here originated in the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta—America’s Amazon—as a major spawning area for several delectable species. You can’t get fresher than that.
Many seafood dishes were invented here. Fried blue crab claws (“Crab claws” to us locals) and West Indies Salad were created here. The Flaming Oysters at Bluegill on the Causeway is a Mobile original, and the absolute best way to enjoy oysters. Garlic butter and melted parmesan atop a flame-grilled oyster? Yes, please.
Mobile is for outdoorsy folks. Outdoor recreation is plentiful here. Bike trails, kayaking, disc golf, fishing, hiking, crabbing, and floundering are just a few of the outdoor activities Mobile has to offer. Add to that the beautiful park system Mobile has, and you’ll never want to spend a day indoors.
If you want to irritate any true-blue Mobilian, tell them the first Mardi Gras in the United States took place in New Orleans. It did not. Mobile is the birthplace of Mardi Gras. As Ginger Woechen’s gorgeous cruise terminal mural declares, we are born to celebrate.
We take our trees seriously here, specifically the live oaks. They are a city-wide treasure. We take comfort strolling beneath the canopies of oak branches found throughout midtown. We fight like the dickens if someone tries to remove one. We even name them. My favorite is the Duffie Oak on Caroline. Originally named the Seven Sisters for the seven long, thick branches reaching out in all directions, the Duffie Oak is the oldest living landmark in Mobile at over 700 years old, and it’s perfect for climbing.
Langan Park, formerly Municipal Park, is Mobile’s Centr
The Community Round Table--The world premiere of "Descendant" & The Clotilda Descendants Association
Joycelyn M. Davis
Co-founder and former Vice-President of the Clotilda Descendants Association
We discuss:
1. The film Descendant screening at the end of the month
2. The Play " An Ocean in my Bones" and film festival ( Feb)
3. Future of Africatown
Stay Connected:
Facebook: Clotilda Descendants Association
IG:@clotildadescendantsassociation
Website. www.theclotildastory.com
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--The Revitalization of Spanish Plaza
Guests:
Tim Maness/President/Mobile Historic Development Commission
Joan Hoffman/Committee Chair/Mobile Historic Development Commission
Topics to discuss:
- Revitalization of Spanish Plaza
- Spanish Plaza Fundraising Gala
- Tile Project Silent Auction
- Commemorative Plaques Fundraiser
For more information:
The Community Round Table--October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Tonie Ann Torrans, Executive Director, Penelope House
Crisis Hotline: (251) 342-8994
OCTOBER IS NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH
Mobile, Al. – Efforts to raise awareness of domestic violence will be made throughout the month of
October. Please see the attached calendar of events. Also, please consider running our PSAs that have
been provided to media, attending and/or promoting events, and/or having a Penelope House
representative appear as a guest to discuss Domestic Violence, assistance available through Penelope
House, and our DV Awareness Display.
What: “Domestic Violence- Traffic Lights” is the theme for this year’s Domestic Violence Awareness
Display- lights of a traffic signs with messages to end DV (red), warning signs to beware of DV (yellow),
and go with healthy relationships (green) made by those in shelter and transitional living, staff, and
community partners
Where: The display will be at Government Plaza Oct. 3-14, ArtWalk Oct. 14 evening, Providence
Hospital Oct. 17-24, and the Mobile Regional Airport Oct. 24- Oct. 31; social media as well.
Why: To educate citizens that Domestic Violence affects the entire community, to help victims of
Domestic Violence break their silence and seek help, and to recognize the importance of law enforcement
in addressing Domestic Violence (protecting victims and holding abusers accountable)
About Penelope House
The mission of Penelope House is to provide safety, protection, and support to victims of domestic
violence and their children through the provision of shelter, advocacy, and individual and community
education. In 2020 despite the pandemic and two hurricanes, Penelope House sheltered 252 adults and
273 children- each year over half of our clients are children. For more information on Penelope House
and services available: www.penelopehouse.org and follow us on Facebook- Penelope House page/
Instagram.
251 NOW with Kelly Finley--2022 Greater Gulf State Fair
Josh Woods
Greater Gulf State Fair
Executive Director
GREATER GULF STATE FAIR ANNOUNCES THREE CONCERTS
MOBILE, Ala. – The Grounds staff and board are proud to announce that the musical acts for the
68th annual Greater Gulf State Fair will be music stars Sister Hazel, Micah Tyler, and Elle King.
Sister Hazel will take the stage on the first Saturday of the Fair, October 29, 2022. Micah Tyler
will perform at Praise Night on Wednesday, November 2, 2022. Finally, Elle King will perform
on Friday, November 4, 2022.
The Fair returns to The Grounds October 28 – November 6, 2022. Advanced discounted tickets
are currently on sale now at www.greatergulfstatefair.com. Visit
facebook.com/greatergulfstatefair for real time updates.
Stay Connected:
We’re on Facebook and Instagram at @GreaterGulfStateFair
The Community Round Table--Bras Across The CAUSEway 5K
Keeli Wall RN, BSN, Ascension Providence Breast Center, Coordinator-Clinical Program
Bras Across the Causeway 5k
Saturday, October 8th, 8am-11am; Meaher Park, 5200 Battleship Pkwy, Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Whose invited:
Literally everyone from 1 to 101, kids, dogs, grandmothers, friends, family, co-workers, neighbors,
running teams, runners, walkers, shufflers, etc. Everyone has been affected by cancer in some way,
so this is a day that we all get to be together to celebrate the victories, embrace the losses and help
each other by loving each other through it all.
Events of the day: BRAS ACROSS THE CAUSEWAY SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Friday Oct 7 th
3:00 PM PASTA PARTY PACKET PICKUP PRE-REGISTRATION
7:00 PM PARTY WRAP UP/LAST MINUTE PREPARATIONS
Saturday Oct 8th
6:30 AM PACKET PICK-UP/REGISTRATION
6:45 AM MATT MUSIC, MOTIVATION, ANNOUNCEMENTS (REPEAT)
7:45 AM JOSH FOSTER – WARM UP
8:00 AM SURVIVOR WALK
8:15 AM 5K
8:30 AM MUSIC, SPONSOR SHOUTOUTS, TESTIMONIALS, GAMES, FOOD (Continues til end of day)
9:15 AM FUN RUN
10:15 AM MEDALS/WINNERS ANNOUNCED
12:00 PM WRAP UP, PACK UP!
*These Local businesses have been supporting this mission since 2017:
-Cammie's Old Dutch Ice Cream brings out a signature ice cream flavor especially for this race, as
well as a warm waffle bar and pink champagne punch
-Hall's Sausage brings out their grill and cooks up several types of sausage
-Josh Foster of Hillcrest Fitbody Bootcamp comes out each year to do the pre race warm up, getting
everyone pumped up for the race
-Matt McCoy of 92Zew is my co-founder, and he comes out with the van and provides the music,
entertainment and announcements
Something New This Year!
-The Cookery Project. This year, we are adding a Pre-race Pasta Party Packet Pickup with food
provided by The Cookery Project, a local non-profit that helps kids learn about nutrition, cooking
healthy foods and teaches them their way around the kitchen in general.
Mission:
The mission of this event is to raise as much money as we can each year that can be disbursed to
Local patients, while they are in treatment and funds are not available for personal needs. We
provide funds that are used for mortgage payments, rents, utilities, groceries, gas cards, co-
payments, insurance premiums, tests not covered by insurance, medications, genetics testing when
applicable and other various and sundry expenses that arise.
Goal:
Our goal is to create a family friendly event that the community can look forward to each year and feel
like they are making a difference here, in our neighborhoods. This
is a grassroots effort to put money into the hands and households of the actual patients who are
suffering and who need help on a very urgent and personal level.
*Shout out to our top SPONSORS!
They are the reason this mission is so successful each year, we are so very grateful to:
Hope Brown - Roberts Brothers, she has been a cheerleader for this mission since day one and is our
presenting sponsor this year!
Southern Cancer Center has supported this mission every year and we are very grateful for the work
they do.
Myriad has partnered with us several times over the years! They help provide genetics testing to
patients who are at risk.
Hologic has also partnered with us in our mission and they also provide testing to those who may be
at risk or carry the gene that causes breast cancer.
All In Credit Union contacted us and Torian Davis, their marketing manager, who, himself had a loved
one who beat breast cancer has been very supportive and pledged to be involved on a yearly basis
going forward.
Stay connected:
Brasacrossthecauseway.org
Events.com
Kathy Smith, Marketing/Outreach
251-391-0258/kakism1@aol.com
