Julian MacQueen has been wildly successful in the hotel business with Innisfree Hotels. An adventurer of sorts, he decided at an early age that the beach is where he wanted to be. Much has been written about his hotel management and development company, flying exploits, and religious sojourn. He’s quick to point out that the best thing he’s ever done was marry his wife of over four decades, Kim. They are truly a team.

Ever heard of Record Store Day? It happens twice a year, once in April and once on Black Friday. Record Store Day began in 2007 as a way for artists and record labels to support independent record stores. Musical artists put out exclusive editions and work to promote the importance and value of indie record stores.

Jack McCown grew up in the design world in Mobile. His grandfather, Tommy McCown, a well-known builder in Mobile and the Eastern Shore was known for his creative, architecturally inspired homes. His father, Vance McCown, is a commercial and residential contractor, and his brother, Robert McCown, is a local architect who designs beautiful custom-built homes regionally. To say Jack comes by it naturally is an understatement.

Tim Thompson and Ellis O’Neal, Pensacola natives, met playing disc golf. They both worked in the food industry; Tim was a line cook for Global Grill and Peg Leg Pete’s while Ellis worked in kitchen and equipment sales for restaurants. They tossed around the idea of opening a food truck business while playing disc golf together.

The craft brewery business is booming and that’s great news for us beer lovers. First thought to be a fad, but like so many things, it’s here to stay. I’ve stopped by the Alga Beer Company in the East Hill area of Pensacola several times and was interested to hear their story.

Several of my foodie friends have recommended a small, neighborhood establishment called KItchen on Main in Daphne; the Main being Main Street across from Manci’s Antique Club. It was my daughter’s birthday, so we made reservations and had a wonderful dining experience!

Don Rhodes, owner of Ahi Seafood Market in Fairhope, is more than a purveyor of fresh seafood. He is a seller of all things his customers want. Literally. That drives his business, making sure his customers get exactly what they desire, not just seafood. “I’ve been slowly building a specialty market based on my customer’s request. It’s also an education of sorts,” he says.

At this time of Thanksgiving, we encourage you to remember the organizations in the Scenic 98 Coastal communities that are making a difference and serve as the glue that holds our towns and neighborhoods together.