Gulf Coast Woman February 2022 by Gulf Coast Woman

OMAN

COMPLIMENTARY

GULF COAST

FEBRUARY 2022

Turbocharge your life Gifts he'll

LOVE

Parade schedule

Peggy Sprabery

OF THE COAST

Dr. Michael J. Christie and Dr. Aimee R. Watts Center for OB/GYN BOARD CERTIFIED OB/GYNS

Michael J. Christie M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

Aimee R. Watts M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

Cindy Barfield F.N.P.-B.C. Board Certified Nurse Practitioner

Leanne Virgilio F.N.P.-C. Board Certified Nurse Practitioner

Dr. Watts has 12 years of experience as an OB/GYN in Mississippi.

Quality care one patient at a time. AESTHETIC SERVICES AVAILABLE MAIN OFFICE OCEAN SPRINGS

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February w w w . 2022 michaelchristiemd.com

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Meet our Success Strategists!

FOUNDER

Dr. Angela Bruni

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dorothy P. Wilson

BRYNN JOACHIM Success Strategist (228) 297.8724

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Sherry Moxley Seaman

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER Crystal Scretching

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER Jennifer Gentile

VERONICA RATCLIFF Success Strategist (228) 861.6503

ANGELIQUE LACOUR Success Strategist (228) 304.7634

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Cassie Archebelle Brenda Blount Karol Brandt Ariel Chamberlain Michelle Chiasson Dr. Tracy Daniel-Hardy Chari Davis Dr. Sidra Khalid Casey Kelley Robin Killeen Christin LeBoeuf Dr. Philip L. Levin

Irene T. Magee LaShaundra McCarty Jennifer Miller Dr. Shelia Rivers Lauren Riley Jessi Robertson Kathy Rogers Tammy Smith Angelyn Treutel Zeringue Dr. April Ulmer Dr. Gaye Winter Elizabeth Zimmerman

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brandi Stage

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Farrah Underwood

OMAN

COMPLIMENTARY

GULF COA ST

FEBRUARY 2022

Turbocharge your life Gifts he'll

LOVE

Parade schedule

Peggy Sprabery

SHERRY SEAMAN Business Development Director

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS We specialize in delivering eyeballs on digital and print platforms. Tell us your goal and we’ll deliver a winning, integrated media strategy. Our goal is to help you stay focused on running your business while we handle your promotions.

RESERVE AD SPACE: (228) 202.2130 Sherry@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com 4

February 2022

OF THE COAST

ON THE COVER Photographer: Brandi Stage Portraiture Makeup and hair: Brittney M. Johnson Location: Brandi Stage Portraiture

COVER SUBJECT Peggy Sprabery

38 Pass Road, Suite A, Gulfport, MS 39507 (228) 539-2422 CustomerService@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com © 2021 Gulf Coast Woman is published 12 times per year and is available free of charge. We encourage your comments, suggestions and submissions, however, we unsolicited documents or manuscripts. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

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COMPASSIONATE

DR. STEPHANIE FUSSELL

DR. OLIVIA HIGHTOWER

CARE RIGHT HERE AT

FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL CANCER PREVENTION AWARENESS MONTH. We at Hematology Oncology Partners encourage you to see your primary care physician and get your screening mammogram, colonoscopy, and prostate exam as appropriate.

DR. ALLISON WALL

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT ALL FIVE LOCATIONS GULFPORT 1340 Broad Avenue | Suite 330 BILOXI 920 Tommy Munro Drive BILOXI 147 Reynoir Street | Suite 204 BAY ST. LOUIS 835 Thames Avenue WIGGINS 1440 E. Central Avenue

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trend watch THE WORLD IS OPENING UP WITH BRIGHT, BOLD COLORS FOR 2022. / 75

THIS EDITION

contents

SUCCESS / 24

HEALTH / 88

HOME & FAMILY / 49

FOOD & FUN / 105

STYLE / 75

FILL YOUR CUP / 112

WEDDINGS / 85

February 2022

Mardi Gras Mambo Mammo Much like Bourbon Street, breast cancer never sleeps. So, why do we only talk about it in October? This Mardi Gras season—and year round—make time for your best assets with a 3D Mammogram. So show us your ta-tas. (It could save your life)

Self-book your 3D Mammo at MySingingRiver.com or call 228-809-5000.

SingingRiverHealthSystem.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

NEAR TO YOUR

HEART

February 2022

Award Winning

CARDIOLOGISTS in Multiple Locations across the Coast

Bassam Baroudi, MD

Matthew Hann, MD

James Hardwick, MD

Jay Libys, MD

Umair Malik, MD

Paul Mullen, MD

Antoine Rizk, MD

Manoj Shah, MD

Shwan Jalal, MD

Sam Owen, MD

Ron Jones, MD

Michael Payment, MD

Wakkas Tayara, MD

FIND ONE NEAR YOU Call (228) 867-5000 WeAreMemorial.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

SAVE THE

date!

Here’s what’s happening on the Coast this month: Biloxi Chamber of Commerce Morning Call featuring Supervisor Connie Rockco

Feb 11, 8 a.m. St. Patrick Catholic High School, Biloxi Biloxi Chamber of Commerce’s Morning Call is a complimentary member program held at various times throughout the year featuring guest speakers that are important to the Biloxi business community. Attendees also enjoy breakfast and networking.

Fred Haise Day and statue unveiling

stakeholders to hear from Ocean Springs Mayor Kenny Holloway. The event is free to attend. Call (228) 875-4424 for further details.

Pass Christian update on education with Dr. Carla Evers Feb. 17, 8-9 a.m. (doors open at 7 a.m.) Pass Christian Yacht Club Superintendent Dr. Carla Evers will provide an update on the Pass Christian School District during this engaging breakfast event. The cost is $25 for Chamber members, $30 general admission; pricing includes breakfast.

Children’s walking parade

Feb. 19, 10 a.m. Downtown Biloxi The Children’s Walking Parade is presented by the city of Biloxi, The Mississippi Coastal Mardi Gras Museum and the Gulf Coast Carnival Association. To enter or for more information, contact the Biloxi Visitors Center.

Sixth Annual Krewe of Barkloxi Bow-Wow Pawrade Feb. 13, 1:13 p.m. Biloxi Lighthouse parking lot The public is invited to celebrate the legacy of astronaut and Biloxi native Fred Haise, a space pioneer best known for his role in the Apollo 13 mission, as his statue is unveiled as part of the city’s half-million-dollar lighthouse parking lot project. The statue will be unveiled at 1:13, which is 13:13 in military time and reflects Haise’s involvement in Apollo 13.

Ocean Springs breakfast with the Mayor Feb. 16, 8 a.m. The Lady May, Ocean Springs Breakfast with the Mayor, sponsored by Coldwell Banker Alfonso, will allow residents and

February 2022

queen and other categories. Event is sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and the Humane Society of South Mississippi.

Ocean Springs night parade

Feb. 25, 7 p.m. Downtown Ocean Springs The 13th annual Ocean Springs Night Parade begins at the Ocean Springs Yacht Club, follows Porter Avenue to Washington Avenue, then turns on Government Street and ends at the Ocean Springs Central Office.

Krewe of Gemini day parade

Feb. 26, 2 p.m. Downtown Gulfport For more information or an application to participate, contact kreweofgeminigulfport@gmail. com

Krewe of Neptune night parade

Feb. 20, noon Biloxi Town Green Celebrate Mardi Gras by dressing up your favorite pup and join this annual family-friendly event. Prizes will be awarded for king,

Feb. 26, 5:30 p.m. Downtown Biloxi The annual parade will feature towering floats, booming marching bands and much more. For additional information, visit www.kreweofneptune.org.

VIP REDEFINING THE

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GO BIG. Christian HartleY

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College ALUMNA

Community Bank President, BancorpSouth (a division of Cadence Bank)

DREAMING OF A BIG CAREER?

GO BIG AT GULF COAST! visit an enrollment Services center today! FOR MORE INFORMATION: 601-928-6384 • RECRUITING@MGCCC.EDU OR SCAN THE QR CODE. 12

GoFebruary Big. Go Gulf Coast. 2022

@mgcccfuturebulldogs on Facebook!

acceptinG the

challenge

MGCCC’s dual credit/dual enrollment & collegiate academy programs give local high school students opportunities to earn their degrees early & experience college life. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College offers dual credit/dual enrollment programs for high school students, along with Collegiate Academy, which allows students to complete their high school diploma and receive an associate degree at the same time. Currently, MGCCC has nearly 2,000 students in the programs. Jen Hargrove, a current Collegiate Academy student, said she is excited about the many things she has accomplished at the college. “I love my classes and everything I’m learning, and I enjoy being part of the Student Government Association and Campus Activities Board,” she said. Hargove’s mother, Christina, said, “As a parent, the option to allow my daughter to take college courses has been incredible. As a homeschooler, Jen usually completes her schoolwork early in the day. We fill much of the day with sports and related activities, but she does have plenty of time left over. Enter college classes. They have provided her with excellent opportunities to learn in a more traditional atmosphere, and she enjoys learning at a more advanced level, which challenges her.” Justin Mills, Collegiate Academy counselor at the Harrison County Campus, said students in dual credit/dual enrollment and Collegiate Academy have many opportunities at the college. “Dual credit/dual enrollment students have access to the Learning Lab and Learning

Resources Center on campus. They also get free admission at MGCCC athletic events, can use the campus gymnasium, and are offered access to intramural sports, and campus events. Collegiate Academy students have these same opportunities, plus they are invited to get involved in campus organizations.” Colleen Hanna, who works with Collegiate Academy students at the Jackson County Campus, said she encourages students to participate in campus activities and organizations. “We want this to feel like a regular college experience for them, and the best way for that to happen is for them to get involved.” Mills said they encourage students to become members of the Concurrent Enrollment Leadership Organization (CELO), which in turn helps them join other campus activities. “We want them to have the best college experience and to build their resumes, which will give them even more opportunities at the next level,” he said. “It also helps them become well-rounded individuals who are prepared for whatever challenges they may face.” “I would encourage any high school student to consider taking classes at MGCCC,” Hargrove said. “It allows you to get a feel for college early, so you are more prepared for what the future holds.”

For more information on Dual Credit or Enrollment or Collegiate Academy, www.gcwmultimedia.com scan the QR code at right or visit mgccc.edu/concurrent-enrollment.

Celebrating

Years!

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February 2022

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25 ways to say

“I love you”

Those three special words aren’t the only way to express how you feel. From simple, thoughtful actions to grand gestures, here are some ideas for showing the love this Valentine’s Day and every day.

1. Serve coffee and/or breakfast in bed. 2. Hide a sweet note where he or she will find it at work or school. 3. Do a chore your significant other dislikes without being asked. 4. Give compliments — lots of compliments. 5. Put your phone away during meals and make a point to communicate. 6. Let your significant other pick the movie or TV show you watch next — and show interest in why he or she enjoys it. 7. Make a surprise, middle-of-the-week reservation at his or her favorite restaurant. 8. Prepare his or her favorite dish on an ordinary day. 9. Exchange a meaningful look with your loved one from across the room. 10. Plan a weekend getaway, and let him or her pick the destination. 11. If your loved one is a fan of flowers, bring them home for no reason. 12. Grab a quick kiss on your way out the door. 13. Read his or her favorite book and discuss it over dinner. 14. Do something kind and unexpected for a close friend or family member of your loved one who needs it; make an effort to get to know and get close to the people he or she loves 15. When he or she tells a story, remember the little details.

February 2022

16. Turn on the radio and dance in the living room. 17. Gift him or her something with sentimental meaning. 18. Whether it’s a treasured t-shirt or prized pair of sunglasses, we all have something our loved ones routinely use without asking. Make a gift of it, or invite him or her to borrow it without complaint. 19. Organize a sweet scavenger hunt with something special for your loved one to discover at the end. 20. Try a new hobby or learn a new skill together. 21. Bring back something he or she loved in childhood. 22. Give him or her a pet name. 23. Delight him or her with tickets to a concert or play. 24. Tell inside jokes and be silly together. 25. Text “Good morning!” and/or “Good night!” when you’re apart.

WE CAN. I CAN.

February February isis National National Cancer Cancer Prevention Prevention Month Month

Did you know that nearly 50% of the most common Did you know that nearly 50% of the most common cancers can be prevented through lifestyle choices? cancers can be prevented through lifestyle choices? Eating healthy, maintaining a lean weight, exercising Eating healthy, maintaining a lean weight, exercising regularly, not smoking, and getting vaccinated are all regularly, not smoking, and getting vaccinated are all things you can do to lower your risk. The Medical things you can do to lower your risk. The Medical Oncology Group would like you to join our campaign in Oncology Group would like you to join our campaign in the fight against cancer. Together we can! the fight against cancer. Together we can! #WeCanICan - Kick Butts! #WeCanICan - Kick Butts! #WeCanICan - Get Vaccinated! #WeCanICan - Get Vaccinated! #WeCanICan - Eat Healthy! #WeCanICan - Eat Healthy! #WeCanICan - Get Moving! #WeCanICan - Get Moving!

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Sidra Hamza Pamela M.D. Pam e la TKhalid, u l i , M .M.D. D. m za M Minhas, i nMinhas, h a s , MM.D. . D. ra K h aTuli, l iTuli, d, M . D. Sidra Khalid, M.D.H a Hamza M.D. S i dPamela M.D.

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Diamond head • G u lf p o r t •• Bilo x i • O c ean SpSprings rin g s Diamondhead Diamondhead • • Gulfport Gulfport • Biloxi Biloxi • • Ocean Ocean Springs Accepting new patients at all locations

new patients at cation all locations A cce pt in g n Accepting e w p atients at a ll lo to

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Living

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Experts

GCW REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS

KAROL BRANDT

DR. PHILIP LEVIN

HEALTH

DR. PAMELA TULI

DR. SIDRA KHALID

HEALTH

DR. HAMZA MINHAS

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BIENVILLE ORTHOPAEDIC HEALTH SPECIALISTS HEALTH

KATHY ROGERS SUCCESS AND MONEY

ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE SUCCESS AND MONEY

HEALTH

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER (ERIN GIBSON) HOME AND FAMILY

KATHY BROWN VAN ZUTPHEN HOME AND FAMILY

CHRIS DEARMAN FOOD AND FUN

NAVIGATOR CREDIT UNION LASHAUNDRA SUCCESS AND MONEY MCCARTY SUCCESS AND MONEY

DR. TRACY DANIEL-HARDY ARIEL CHAMBERLAIN HOME AND FAMILY HOME AND FAMILY

MELANIE JONES HOME AND FAMILY

*PLEASE NOTE: WHILE CONTRIBUTORS LISTED MAY CONTRIBUTE REGULARLY, THEY DO NOT ALL NECESSARILY SUBMIT EVERY MONTH.

JASMINE BALL STYLE AND BEAUTY

LAUREN RILEY STYLE AND BEAUTY

ROBIN KILLEEN FILL YOUR CUP

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191

powerhouse

MEET ENTERTAINMENT

SCHELLE PURCELL Schelle Purcell is a woman in action. The Gulfport native, now based in Atlanta, has found her footing in the entertainment industry while also being a single mom. In January, she appeared in the six-episode series “Women of the Movement” on ABC. Here, she shares how she got to where she is and what she has planned for the future.

speaking life into everything I created, or even said I was going to do, and I did it — all of it. I love them for that, every one of them, and they know exactly who they are.

WHAT IS “WOMEN OF THE MOVEMENT” ABOUT? WHAT IS YOUR ROLE IN IT, AND WHAT MAKES YOU EXCITED TO BE A PART OF IT?

“Women of the Movement” is a sixpart series retelling the murder of Emmett Till and how his mother, Mamie TillMobley, made the brave decision to have an open-casket viewing that ignited the Civil I graduated from Gulfport High School Rights Movement. I will be playing Adeline and completed some college on the Loggins, the wife of Henry Lee Loggins — Gulf Coast. After Hurricane Katrina, I relocated to North Carolina and did a little a Black man who allegedly witnessed the murder. more college at North Carolina Central When I got the audition notice, the title University. That is where my love affair “Women of the Movement” immediately with the entertainment industry began. made me sit up in my bed. I read the I started writing, and my first of six breakdown of what the series was about stage plays came to life. Four short films, three feature films and a move to Georgia and who was producing it. I got nervous. In this industry, when you get an audition, were the beginning of my successful you only get one shot to book. I auditioned journey as a working actor, writer and for a different role first but didn’t book it. I established director. was a little sad, but I’ve taught myself on this journey what is for me is for me. WHAT ARE SOME KEY MOThen I received another audition notice MENTS/EXPERIENCES THAT HAVE — this time for this character. I said, “This HELPED YOU DEVELOP INTO THE is it. I must do something ‘different’ if I want this opportunity, God.” My mentor, PERSON YOU ARE TODAY? (After) Hurricane Katrina, I just wanted Deja Dee, taught us not to be afraid to take risks in your performance. Commit to to come back home. That’s why I started writing. Then there was losing a husband your decision and leave it all on the tape. I booked it! I literally cried. To be born after 54 days of marriage that ignited and raised in Mississippi and be a part the depression and drug and alcohol of retelling this story from the mouth of a dependence to cope and understand the Black woman, a Black mother, will forever “why.” live in my heart. … Every person, every But on the other side of that was God, location and every detail made this project who used my oldest daughter to whisper a success. into my ear (and instill) the need for me Black women make a difference! That is to fight for life after that — and that’s the story of our lives from the beginning what I did. I prayed, and I wrote. I prayed, of time. We give, even when we have and I wrote some more. Then I prayed, nothing left to give. We share. We love wrote and produced with some of the unconditionally. We figure it out and most amazing extended family in North stand by while others take credit for it. Carolina that a person could ever ask for. We breathe life into circumstances that Their love, coupled with my family seem hopeless. We (are the) foreground and close friends from Gulfport and my of this country, and it’s OK if people don’t pastor (the Rev. Charles Tyner Sr.), kept

PLEASE TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF, YOUR BACKGROUND AND EXPERIENCE.

February 2022

understand it or see it that way. The facts are the facts, and we never asked for recognition; we just asked to be treated equally for what we have given selflessly. “Women of the Movement” aired on Jan. 6 and is available for streaming on Hulu.

HOW HAS YOUR JOB/CAREER EVOLVED AND PROGRESSED SINCE IT STARTED? WHAT DIRECTION WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE IT GO?

It’s not an easy job to be in the television and film industry. I started out as an independent filmmaker. That is a humbling experience, especially when you are asking people to financially invest in your dreams. It was extremely tough and still is, but what do you do? Quit? Heck no! I quickly had to learn, “no” is not the final answer. Maybe it is for that person you asked at that time, but ask someone else. There is a “yes” out there with your name on it! I have so many goals. There is the community theatre and community center I will open in Gulfport and Raleigh. There’s the restaurant(s) I will invest in for Bria & Brhodie (son-to-be). There’s the production studio I will open for writers and directors to start their indie projects, where budgets are not in the millions of dollars. There are the speaking tours I’ll do between my regular shows. There is whatever (my daughter) Chanel will need me to invest in, because she is super creative. Then there is On Your Feet, my nonprofit for teen parent support. There are so many things coming for Schelle Purcell! I trust God for them and then some.

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COVER STORY

Servant leader Civic-minded arts advocate Peggy Sprabery is determined to make a difference

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Legacies

HONORING

Creating a legacy means making a lasting impact — shaping and positively affecting the future. South Mississippi is fortunate to have many women whose contributions to their community and its welfare will resonate for generations. In this issue, we’re celebrating the local leaders in business, philanthropy and civic involvement whose values and dedication have changed the Coast for the better.

February 2022

eggy Sprabery wants to be remembered for raising her hand and saying “yes.” Now 71, the wife, mother, former teacher and passionate arts advocate has built a legacy of involvement that speaks for itself. The extensive list of organizations to which she has said “yes” includes the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra Board of Directors (of which she was president for two terms), the Gulfport Salvation Army Board of Directors, the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art Board of Trustees, the Gulf Coast Arts Council, the Mississippi University for Women Alumni Association and Executive Council and a host of others. “Little did I know in 1989 that my blossoming love of music and the arts would lead me to ideas for events to support that passion,” says Sprabery,” who co-hosted the Barbecue Under the Oaks for 26 years and served as the event’s chairman for the first 12 years — one of many activities in which she has been instrumental. “I literally lived and breathed fundraisers for various arts-based organizations and was lucky enough to have a husband (Dr. Don Sprabery) who encouraged me every step of the way.”

THE VULNERABILITY OF LIFE

Sprabery strives to make the most of each day because she knows better than most that tomorrow is never promised. At age 13, she was involved in a car accident that killed her mother and injured her whole family. “Sitting in the waiting room of a hospital that was out of town and not knowing where I was spending the night and who would pick me up the next day was a game changer,” Sprabery recalls. “It was the first time I experienced the vulnerability of life.” Tragedy struck again 13 years later when Sprabery’s oldest brother died at age 29. “These two experiences changed me and the way I approached life from then on,” she says. “I wanted to embrace each moment, to live with intention and joy.” Two years later, she bought a one-way ticket to the Virgin Islands with no job or place to live when she arrived. She worked at Frenchman’s Reef Resort in St. Thomas Virgin Islands for three-and-a-half years in the food and beverage department as a bartender and cocktail waitress. She went on to teach in Jackson and Long Beach public schools for seven-and-a-half years. Her own education includes a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi University for Women and master’s degree from Mississippi College. “I paid for my master’s degree with weekend jobs refinishing furniture, cleaning houses, working at a gift shop and antique fair while teaching through the week,” she recalls.

DOING HER BEST

Sprabery’s determination to make her life matter allowed her to create a legacy of leadership and community involvement. By stepping out and joining different groups, everything from Raw Oyster Marching Club and Tree House Yoga Studio to the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum and Beach Garden Society, she says, “I’ve exposed myself to the most wonderful people on the Coast.” “If you feel the desire to lead and make a difference, then act on it,” she says. “Be an empathetic, optimistic and energetic leader. You’ll work with some who might not like you or agree with you, but stay with it and be kind.” Lynn Frisby met Sprabery when they worked at the IP Casino Resort and Spa. The pair served together on the board for the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra, and they also participated in the American Heart Association Go Red for Women campaign. Frisby also recalls when Sprabery reached out to Molly O’Neill, a former columnist who wrote the book “One Big Table” — inviting her to Pass Christian to help with a fundraiser for the Gulfport Police Activities League.

“Peggy selected recipes from (O’Neill’s) cookbook and enlisted the help of local restaurants and community members to make the goodies served at the dinner,” Frisby says. Sprabery also helped organize the Classical Musical Series, according to her friend, which consists of local artists who play at her home quarterly on a Sunday afternoon. Similarly, the Barbecue Under the Oaks, which Sprabery and her husband started over 30 years ago, allows restaurants and organizations to showcase their barbecue talents while the Symphony youth orchestra entertains guests. To Frisby, Sprabery exemplifies “the Starfish story.” In the tale, a man notices a boy walking along a beach and returning starfish to the water. He tells the boy that there are too many miles of beach, and too many stranded starfish, to make a difference. In reply, the boy picks up a starfish, places it in the surf and says, “I made a difference to that one.” “She is always trying to make a difference,” Frisby says, “whether it is one person or a group of people.” To every group and endeavor she’s involved in, Frisby adds, Sprabery brings a willingness to help others, kindness and love, patience and support, unwavering dedication and a fun attitude. “She will always be remembered for being a servant leader and helping so many,” Frisby says. “I hope to be remembered in the same way that Peggy is in our community.” Sprabery’s view of success has nothing to do with monetary gain. Instead, she defines it as the ability to hold her head high knowing that she’s done her part. “When asked what I am doing today, my answer is always, ‘I’m doing my best!’” she says. “My best — that’s it. Sometimes it’s imperfect and messy, but it’s my best!”

LOTS LEFT TO ACCOMPLISH

Despite what she’s already achieved and experienced in her seven decades of life, Sprabery still has plenty of goals. In fact, just before the pandemic struck, she sat down to pen a bucket list. She has since crossed off several of the 18 items on that list, including experiencing a hayride, hiking in a national park, participating in a silent retreat and attending a rock concert (she saw the Rolling Stones). By the end of 2022, she intends to check off every item. Of all her interests and hobbies, Sprabery is most passionate about music and cooking. “Music affects every cell in my body, and I feel it deeply in my heart,” she says. “Cooking is my language of love, and I want everyone who tastes my food to feel that love. It might not always be the best, but be assured it will be prepared with joy and gratitude.” Sprabery doesn’t give much thought to how people perceive her, as she can’t control that. However, among her family and friends, she wants to be known for her joy and laughter, her love of nature and music, her silliness, exuberance and pranks, like “hiding and scaring my family and friends at any opportunity.” “(I want them to remember) how I still play hide-and-go-seek most every day, how I love to connect with cashiers at stores and the tellers at the bank,” she says. “Some of those conversations have led to my inviting them to get married in our front yard or in our living room!” In her generosity and gregariousness, Sprabery is following the example of her dad, Bill Peden, who loved the Coast and did everything he could to make it better. He taught her that not only is the proverbial glass half full, it’s refillable — a lesson Sprabery has taken deeply to heart. “I’m most proud of learning how to begin again under every circumstance and to be able to forgive myself,” she says. “It’s a gift and a blessing to know that no matter what, I can start over.”

www.gcwmultimedia.com

Legacy in education BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Dr. Carla Evers is her students’ biggest fan

r. Carla Evers acknowledges that she didn’t get where she is on her own. Raised in a mobile home, Evers was the only one of three sisters, all born prematurely, to survive the first month of life. “We did not have much; yet, I had everything,” says Evers, the superintendent of Pass Christian Schools. “My parents and family gave me so much love and encouragement that I believed I could do and be anything.” In high school, Coach Ronald Ladner, the winningest coach in the state at the time, taught Evers and her teammates how to be champions in athletics and in life. During her early days of teaching, she met a series of strong women who helped her find her voice and her confidence. “All the while, I had a praying grandmother and devoted mother who guided me,” she says. “Finally, in leadership, I have worked with elite teachers and leaders who have believed in my ability.” Coming from a family of educators, Evers considers serving as superintendent a high honor — one she doesn’t take for granted. “Educating the leaders of tomorrow is some of the most valuable work I can imagine,” she says. “Our students will

WHAT A LEADER DOES According to Dr. Evers, a leader must: • know, or know who knows • be willing to admit she is wrong • make room for others’ ideas to prevail • not be afraid to surround herself with brilliant people who aspire to her seat • be courageous and have a heart • give praise publicly and discipline in private

February 2022

contribute to our community in ways we have not even dreamed.” In her role at the head of the district, Evers sees herself as the CEO: chief example for others. During the day, you’ll often find her in the schools — visiting classrooms and engaging with staff — and she spends much of her time after hours attending events for her students. “I enjoy seeing them excel both in and outside of the classroom,” she says. “I aim to be their biggest fan!” Throughout her nearly 30-year education career, Evers’s dedication has earned her honors such as teacher of the year and administrator of the year. Most recently, she was named the Coast’s Top Influencer of the Year at the 2021 Success Women’s Conference. “Success for me now is seeing others with whom I work, lead, etc. succeed,” she says. “The tools that I credit are having a close relationship with God (thanks, Granny Mollie, for that insight), working smart, having an ability to push through difficulty by confronting challenges and knowing how to align with others who are smart about the work.” In giving of her time and talent, Evers believes she is fulfilling God’s plan for her life. She’s involved in several civic and service organizations, including Rotary Club of Pass Christian; Children’s Foundation of Mississippi, Program of Research and Evaluation for Public Schools (PREP), the board of Lynn Meadows Discovery Center and the Mississippi Gulf Coast Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, on which she serves as president. “Each of these organizations has service at the heart,” she says, “although each one uses different vehicles to deliver service to the community.” These range from providing coats to children to

supplying food for food pantries to raising funds for the Salvation Army. Evers implores other women who aspire to build a legacy to heed the message of Matthew 5:16, which states, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father, which is in heaven.” “Do not shrink when you enter a room; you are meant to be there,” she says. “Look in the mirror every day, and speak life into yourself. Affirm the dream that has been placed in you; then, do the work!”

John

Pittman

rench Drug Company was founded by Ed French in 1950, originating on Second Street in Gulfport. In 1960 Ed Bourdin became a partner and the store moved to its current location on the corner of Pass Road & Courthouse Road. David Lawrence joined French Drug as a pharmacist in 1976 and purchased the store in 1994. That same year John Pittman was hired and started driving the delivery truck. John continued working at French Drug during his college breaks until he graduated pharmacy school from Ole Miss in 2002 when he became a pharmacist at French Drug. In 2003, one of John’s regular customers, Joanne Blades, insisted that John call her granddaughter, Jessica Martin, for a date. After a blind date in 2003, John and Jessica married in 2004.

employee, is Jessica’s right hand! Brian Price, a 36-year employee, is a pharmacy technician. Crystal Fulford, a 24-year employee, is a pharmacy technician.

French Drug stands by their motto of community service for over 70 years. It is the reason everyone loves it. French Drug never closed during Katrina, working tirelessly even without power to fill prescriptions and allowing customers to “I owe you” so they wouldn’t go without medicine. Personal curbside service is offered by our pharmacists to the elderly for immunizations and prescription delivery. Local delivery is a hallmark service that so many elderly and ill depend on. This is what separates us as a family-owned, independent pharmacy from big chains. Our community is at the heart of French Drug.

John & Jessica purchased the store from David Lawrence in 2014, and David stayed on as a parttime pharmacist until he retired in 2020. Shortly after purchasing French Drug Company, Jessica left her job as a registered nurse to work beside John to run the family pharmacy. Jessica has completely updated and merchandises the gift shop section and runs the business side of French Drug, helping with scheduling, payroll, etc. Together John and Jessica have 3 children and 1 grandchild, Tyler’s little girl, Naomi, who is 2. It’s a true family affair. Tyler (23) has been known to help make deliveries. Paige (15) helps her mom with computer work and stocks shelves, and Charlotte (5) taste tests the candy and tries out the new sunglasses. While family loyalty is strong, French Drug also owes its success to a legacy of long-time employees. Sabrina Whitehead, a 40-year

Legacies OF THE COAST

A Family-Owned Pharmacy and Gift Store Serving the Gulf Coast Community for Over 70 Years!

400 East Pass Road | Gulfport 228-896-5656 www.frenchdrugco.com frenchdrugcompany

www.gcwmultimedia.com

The

Legacies OF THE COAST

O’Keefes

Serving the Families of South Mississippi since 1865

he Bradford-O’Keefe family legacy is a lineage of O’Keefes and associated professionals, spanning six generations and more than 157 years, who have dedicated themselves to “Service Before Self” as a “Family Serving Families” on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and beyond.

The legacy begins with Edward “Ned” O’Keefe and his sister who immigrated from Ireland to New Orleans and later Ocean Springs on the heels of the Irish potato famine. Edward O’Keefe bought property on Porter Avenue on February February 2022

3, 1859 and started a livery business and boarding house to serve the tourists traveling to town to bathe in the natural artesian wells, which were touted to be of healing nature. He enlisted in the Live Oak Rifles 3rd infantry during the Civil War. At the conclusion of the war in 1865, Ned returned to work the land. He was called upon with his drayage to carry those who had passed to the local cemetery. Edward and his wife Mary had two children, Jeremiah and Mary Helen. Upon Edward’s death in 1874, Jerry and his mother, Mary, carried on the livery service, and in 1892, Jeremiah named the business “O’Keefe Funeral Services” in Ocean Springs. When Ocean Springs became incorporated, Jerry was appointed a provisional officer and later elected to serve as alderman, taking office September 19, 1892. Jeremiah I was the first member of the family to hold a political office. Jeremiah I and his wife, Alice Cahill, had five children. One son, John Aloysius O’Keefe, served as the Mayor of the City

of Biloxi before resigning to become the Adjutant General of the Mississippi National Guard. A daughter, Mary Cahill O’Keefe, served the City of Ocean Springs as School Principal before becoming Mississippi’s first female Superintendent of Schools.

Ben’s son, Jeremiah (Jerry) O’Keefe, III, was a World War II Ace Fighter Pilot who also served the people at home in the state Legislature and eight years as Mayor of Biloxi. During this time, he acquired the family business in 1953. This acquisition solidified the fourth generation of the family to carry the business forward. Jerry joined forces with the Bradford Funeral Home Company, and the two companies merged forming the presentday Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home, Inc. Jerry and Annette had thirteen children. His tenth child, Jeffrey H. O’Keefe, joined as a fifth-generation family member in the business during his high school years in 1973 and returned following college to eventually assume ownership of Bradford-O’Keefe. With the philosophy of giving families what they want, BradfordO’Keefe established the first crematory in the State of Mississippi. The funeral home has added multiple locations and now operates funeral chapels in Ocean Springs, two locations in Biloxi, two locations in Gulfport, and Vancleave. The company also owns D’Iberville Memorial Park and Crestlawn Memorial Park Cemeteries. Jeffrey H. O’Keefe, Jr. began working

Bradford-O’Keefe helps hundreds of families each year with final wish planning. Justin O’Keefe leads the O’Keefe team in advance funeral, cremation, cemetery, and financial planning. Justin’s son, Jules O’Keefe, another sixth-generation family member, is a prearrangement specialist with Bradford-O’Keefe and a funeral director trainee. Recently, Bradford-O’Keefe was selected to acquire and continue Edmond Fahey Funeral Home and Gulf Coast Memorial Cemetery & Mausoleum. This is a threegenerational firm which has operated in Bay St. Louis since 1895. Our family considers it a huge honor to have been selected to carry this business forward. Bradford-O’Keefe is proud to be 100% locally owned and is committed to remaining independent. While shopping local is always the preferred option, as it strengthens our economy, it is vital during times of such significance and sentiment. When you think legacy, you easily think of the O’Keefes. Serving the Gulf Coast for six generations and more than 157 years, they have clearly stayed the course in their service to the people of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The O’Keefe family is proud for you to know that the seventh generation is alive, well, and in training.

Legacies OF THE COAST

Jeremiah O’Keefe, I died November 6, 1911, following an operation for appendicitis. After his death, his sons Jeremiah II (Ben), John, and Jodie O’Keefe conducted the business, and on June 4, 1923, the O’Keefe family located the Funeral Home in Biloxi at 601 W. Howard Avenue across from the Nativity Cathedral. The O’Keefe Burial Association was also established to help families fund funerals. Ultimately, Jeremiah II (Ben) O’Keefe acquired sole ownership and management of the Business.

in the company in 2004 and is now President of Bradford-O’Keefe and working with his father as a sixthgeneration family member.

911 Porter Avenue | Ocean Springs www.bokfh.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

Legacies OF THE COAST

Jack & Jeannie

Beattie

Taking care of the Gulf Coast since 1970.

ack and Jeannie Beattie opened their shop in Gulfport in December 1970. Jack was a natural in all that he did, and Jeannie loves color and design, so they decided to make the coast homes and businesses more beautiful. Since they had no children, the people of the Gulf Coast became their dear and beloved family. February 2022

Their love for the Coast has been evident from the beginning as they entered each project with the desire to, not just sell a product, but to assume ownership of the project and have the customer and their home become a real part of their lives. To this day, the three children will say that Jack Beattie’s House of Carpet is and has been “Mom’s social life.” Jeannie doesn’t

merely decorate a home or execute a commercial project to be viewed and admired, she designs so that people can love their spaces, entertain in them and wear them out. Jeannie’s goal is to create a space for clients to create special memories that will last a lifetime – a space to live and to love.

For over 50 years, Jack Beattie’s House of Carpet has offered high-quality, top-brand flooring of all types, window treatments and wall coverings, but believes service is their best product. The company provides installation for everything they sell, brings decades of experience to every project, and finishes the job professionally and on time.

Over the years, Jeannie says the benefits of a family-owned business can be summarized as: “all for one and one for all!” Sharing and caring about the outcome of each project, putting pride in production before profit, and community involvement has been a decades-long philosophy. There is no set time in or out; just work until the job gets done. A family business works very well if you love what you do, and Jeannie says she is very lucky to have a son, Jeff, to fall into the giant footsteps of his father. In 1987 at the age of 12, son Jeff began “running the trucks” with the workers meaning, he started going to job sites and helping out. When his father, Jack, got sick around 1995, Jack and Jeannie depended on him more and more to run the family business, and when Jack passed away several years later, Jeff stepped in to fill his father’s shoes. He and Jeannie have a wonderful working relationship, and Jeff has been able to expand the business. Jeff’s specialty is bathroom design and redesign, especially

Jack Beattie’s

Legacies OF THE COAST

A legacy business, Jeannie and her son Jeff are doing projects for some of the same people she started with in the ‘70s and doing projects for the children of the first customers. In addition to home design, Jack Beattie’s House of Carpet has been fortunate to have the opportunity to work on many bank, office, – for doctors, lawyers and Indian Chiefs – clinic, restaurant, club and casino projects. Yet Jeannie says one of her favorite places to work is in houses of worship for all faiths. A place to learn, to grow, and to share, Jeannie considers design for a place of worship a “project of love” as she attributes her special skills to a gift from God.

taking older homes’ existing bath layout and reworking them into modern and sleek areas with the latest materials and design.

House of Carpet

3206 B. Avenue | Gulfport 228-864-6856 www.gcwmultimedia.com

Valerie

Legacies OF THE COAST

Galle Shaping the Next Generation of Lenders

elmar Mortgage’s Valerie Galle has been in the mortgage business for over 35 years. An unplanned career detour landed her into a long and successful career in mortgage lending and she has never looked back. Early in her career, a bank president assigned her the role of processor, a job she had never heard of, and from there she moved into underwriting and closing. After becoming a top loan originator and branch manager, Valerie eventually started her own multi-state mortgage company before being recruited by Delmar Mortgage, one of the oldest and most successful mortgage companies in the country, to lead their southern branches.

VALERIE GALLE, Senior Vice President NMLS# 658281

opportunities for so many great people and help various local economies in the South by growing and opening branches. At this point in her career, Valerie likes to joke that she is starting to see “grand borrowers,” which she calls new borrowers being sent to her from their parents, the same parents she helped buy or refinance a home years ago.

In addition to helping homeowners with their mortgages, Valerie now shares her “I want my legacy to be helping our mortgage success by hiring and training community members fund their homes people for all aspects of the mortgage and guiding the best and brightest to process, particularly loan origination. She success in the mortgage industry, and has helped people develop successful Delmar Mortgage makes that a very careers and provided employment attainable aspiration,” says Valerie. opportunities throughout the South by opening new mortgage offices. Valerie is proud that she has brought Delmar Mortgage’s 55-year lending legacy directly hablamos esp Conventional Loans to the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas. USDA / Rural Housing Loans FHA & VA Loans

As an employee-focused company, Bond & Grant Programs Delmar Mortgage has continued to grow First Time Buyer Programs leaps and bounds, and under Valerie’s Jumbo Loans New Construction Financing A Lending Legacy direction, it’s legacy of helping home delmarmortgage.com buyers in the Gulf Coast continues 2112 Bienville Boulevard | Suite G stronger than ever. As a lifelong resident Ocean Springs of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, it has been a real sense of accomplishment for Valerie 228-215-1365 to have been able to help so many people with their mortgage needs, provide career delmarmortgage.com February 2022 Reverse Mortgages

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O’Sullivan Carrying on a Legacy of Lending

fter being a Mortgage Loan Officer for over 30 years, Bernie O’Sullivan of Delmar Mortgage has helped thousands of people on the Gulf Coast realize the dream of homeownership. As lifelong resident of Pascagoula who knows so many other residents, making a difference in her community is a driving force behind her hard work. Her award-winning success in the mortgage industry is a testament to her efforts. Helping her borrowers save money with a refinance, showing a first-time buyer how the process works and improving her customers’ lives give her joy, and it is why she absolutely loves what she does! Most of Bernie’s business comes from repeat clients and their referrals to family and friends. Realtors, local banks, credit unions and CPAs put their trust with Bernie as well by referring their mortgage clients to take advantage of Bernie’s expertise and the vast mortgage programs at her disposal through Delmar Mortgage.

BERNIE O’SULLIVAN, Senior Loan Officer NMLS# 658282

Legacies OF THE COAST

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Bernie

Realizing happiness in helping others keeps Bernie going, and she believes that when your work gives you joy, it’s not like work at all. She is a top producer at Delmar Mortgage and has one of the highest customer service ratings. She is also one of the top producers for the Mississippi Home Corporation with their products for first-time homebuyers. But Bernie always says that her real sense of accomplishment is helping people realize their dreams. Knowing she helped her clients reach such a milestone is what Bernie considers her highest honor.

Bernie’s clients and referral partners know she has their best interests at heart. hablamos español Delmar Mortgage makes certain BernieConventional Loans USDA / Rural Housing Loans Bay Saint Louis and her team are able to provide the best FHA & VA Loans 805 Highway 90 Reverse Mortgages information, experience and outcome. Ocean Springs Bond & Grant Programs 2112 Bienville Blvd, Ste G Having a great company and team First Time Buyer Programs Pascagoula 1403 Jackson Ave, Ste B behind her affords Bernie the flexibility Jumbo Loans New Construction Financing Lucedale A Lending Legacy to meet with clients, make business 826 Manila Street delmarmortgage.com presentations for Realtors and participate 1403 Jackson Avenue | Suite B in local outreach organizations, such Pascagoula as the Pascagoula Rotary Club. All of these things coupled with Bernie’s 228-215-1268 determination to serve are keys to her success. delmarmortgage.com www.gcwmultimedia.com 33 NMLS# 30998

Home loans

Legacies OF THE COAST

Dr. George

Loukatos Alpha Care Urgent Care has done a great job serving our community during this pandemic

r. George Loukatos is the founder and owner of the AlphaCare Urgent Care network, serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast. He was born and raised on the north shore of Boston and is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Massachusetts. He obtained his Doctor of Medicine at Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska, and then completed a combined residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at the Tulane University School of Medicine. While at Tulane he served as chief resident, was elected into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society and was also named Intern of the Year of Charity Hospital of New Orleans. He began his career as an emergency medicine physician in 2003 and along the way served as medical director of multiple emergency departments as well as Regional Medical Director in the state of Mississippi. Dr. Loukatos spent 18 years working in and managing emergency departments. Along the way he constantly battled crowded waiting rooms, under-staffed departments, and the inability to move

February 2022

patients through the department in an efficient manner. He knew that many patients who end up in the ER could be cared for in a less critical setting, at a fraction of the cost and in a more comfortable environment. It was this experience that sparked the vision for AlphaCare Urgent Care, and the goal of bringing a new and superior option for healthcare to the Gulf Coast. At AlphaCare, the foundational commitment is to provide the best possible care in an environment that is fast, friendly, and cost-efficient. AlphaCare is committed to being available when their patients need them, by staying open 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. The vision quickly took off, and AlphaCare is now proud to serve the Gulf Coast offering locations in Ocean Springs, Biloxi, and Gulfport.

Dr. Loukatos and his team at AlphaCare Urgent Care look forward to continuing to serve the Gulf Coast community for many years to come. They hope to continue to lead the way in providing convenient and affordable healthcare that is second to none.

AlphaCare quickly became recognized as a leader in providing premier health care on the Gulf Coast. They were voted Best Urgent Care in the (228), along with Best Urgent Care Center in the entire state of Mississippi. To top off the accolades, this fall AlphaCare was recognized as the highest rated Urgent Care Center in the Southeastern United States. “WhatI am most proud of”, says Dr. Loukatos, “is the outstanding care that my staff has consistently provided to our community. We truly strive to make a difference, especially during these challenging times.” Dr. Loukatos is also a member of the board of directors of the United MSD Foundation working to find a cure and treatments for Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency, a rare childhood genetic disease that leads to neurologic devastation and death, usually by the age of 10. The current research on MSD is extremely promising, and Dr. Loukatos believes that a cure is on the horizon. His work with the United MSD foundation centers around fundraising, advocacy, and supporting the ongoing research to find a cure.

Legacies OF THE COAST

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Dr. Loukatos and AlphaCare were thrust to the forefront of the efforts to provide testing and vaccination for the Gulf Coast. They led the way being amongst the first to bring rapid testing to the area and have since provided testing to tens of thousands of patients. AlphaCare has also provided free testing to those without insurance and joined in the effort to distribute COVID vaccines to our community. Dr. Loukatos has participated in multiple educational webinars, Q & A’s, and served as a medical expert to the community throughout the pandemic, providing updates about the progression of the pandemic and the most current recommendation that the public should follow to protect themselves.

1113 Bienville Boulevard | Ocean Springs 228-300-5945 921 Cedar Lake Road | Biloxi 228-396-3945 1018 Cowan Road | Gulfport 228-265-7945 www.gcwmultimedia.com

Legacies OF THE COAST

Debbie

Batia Family Success for over 70 years!

ormerly known as Merchiston Hall Galleries, Debbie Batia and her family have been serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast with quality home furnishings and design for over seventy years. In 1947 her father got a job with Merchiston Hall after moving here to serve at Keesler Air Force Base. In 1952, he was made manager and also married Debbie’s mom, who was also an interior designer at Merchiston Hall. In 1957, the Crapo family bought the store where Debbie spent much of her childhood and adolescence, developing a love for design, people and service. Debbie joined the family business full time in 1977 to help her mother with the business after the untimely passing of her father at age 46. The business grew to 15 employees, but was destroyed in Hurricane Katrina, at which point Debbie’s mother retired. Debbie continued the business of personal service and exceptional design, eventually renaming the business d.Batia Interiors. Debbie’s trademarks are a customer-focused approach that provides quality furnishings and interior design styled to be unique to each client. As an ASID designer, Debbie can help with any project – residential, commercial, new construction, remodeling, or redecorating. Debbie is committed to creating unique and functional spaces that reflect the personality, needs and goals of each client.

963 Howard Avenue | Biloxi Formerly Merchiston Hall Galleries 228-385-2657 www.dbatiainteriors.com

February 2022

Dr. John F.

Delivering trusted care to women and their babies for over 20 years.

he Woman’s Clinic was founded in 1956 and for over 60 years has proudly provided quality specialty care to women and their babies. All physicians are Fellows of The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists who practice using the latest advancements in medicine and pregnancy care. The doctors are able to help their patients with prenatal care, women’s health, postpartum care, hormone replacement therapy, non-invasive laser treatments for vaginal tightening and incontinence, robotic surgery, weight management plans, skin care, massage services and much more.

Woman’s Clinic P.A. 4577 13th Street | Gulfport 228-864-2752 Woman’s Clinic P.A. 2781 C.T. Switzer Drive, Suite #306 | Biloxi 228-822-6368 www.WomansClinicPA.net

Dr. John F. Pappas, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. earned his medical degree from the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University in 1990 and completed his residency in OB-GYN at the University of Connecticut in 1994. He is Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and has been practicing with Woman’s Clinic for over 20 years, specializing in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy and childbirth. Dr. Pappas is a fellow of the American College of OB-GYN and a member of the Mississippi State Medical Association and the American Medical Association.

Legacies OF THE COAST

Pappas

Now providing healthcare services to generations of coastal women, the physicians, nurses and staff are confident patients will feel comfortable and secure in their care and are grateful for their legacy relationship with their patients of the Gulf Coast. www.gcwmultimedia.com

Lee & Kathy

Legacies OF THE COAST

Rogers

Serving Others through Education Marston Keith Rogers and Marston Lee Rogers

arston Keith Rogers retired from the Air Force and began his career in the financial services and life insurance industry in 1974 as an agent for New York Life. He later transitioned to Lincoln Financial and was named their District Sales Manager in 1978. In 1981 he left Lincoln Financial to become an independent agent. In 1985 his son Marston Lee Rogers joined him, and they formed Rogers Insurance & Planning Associates, P.A. The foundation of their business was their belief in the education of their clients, helping them make an informed decision regarding their financial future.

As a part of the transition back to their roots and as a way to honor the legacy and example of Lee’s father, Marston Keith Rogers, they opted to once again change their business name to Marston Rogers Group. We at Marston Rogers Group hold fast to our founding belief in the importance of educating our clients and assiting them make an informed decision regarding their financial future while we continue to embrace the legacy of Marston Keith Rogers of faith, honor, family.

In 1996 Lee’s wife Kathy joined their team; they expanded their business to include property and casualty insurance and moved their office to Orange Grove. In 2000 the business name was changed to Rogers Insurance, Inc. They continued to grow their business and moved into new offices at their current location in 2004. 2004 was also the year that Keith’s wife Ann suffered a massive stroke and he retired in order to care for her. While looking for a way to give back to their community that aligned with their values, and reflected their life experiences, they came up with the idea of organizing their community to visit the residents of local nursing homes. Adopt A Grandparent Day, which is a now a 501(c)3 organization, was the result of that effort. They just celebrated their ninth year of honoring and encouraging the residents of local nursing homes.

After being approached by a nationwide business looking to acquire their property and casualty agency, they decided to sell that part of their business while retaining their original business, financial services, and life insurance. February 2022

15431 O’Neal Road | Ste B | Gulfport O: 228-206-5902 F: 228-206-0150 www.mrg.life

Dr. C.A. “Buddy”

Brice and

Dr. Austin

Serving children and young adults as well as special needs patients of all ages.

or over four decades, Brice and Associates – Pediatric Dental Specialists has served the Mississippi Gulf Coast with one goal in mind: They make every patient their first priority, go the extra mile to help them understand their oral health and ensure they feel comfortable and safe, in addition to building positive relationships with their parents. Dr. Buddy and Dr. McMurphy find it rewarding and gratifying to have so many former patients bring their own children to the clinic for pediatric dental care.

Dental

Helping Your Dedicated Child Enjoy Pediatric Dentists To The Oral Health Of Infants, Children, Teens a Healthy Smile for Life. And Children With Special Needs BILOXI OFFICE

OCEAN SPRINGS OFFICE

(228) 374-8175 (228) 215-3100 10701070 Judge Sekul Avenue | Biloxi Judge Sekul Ave. 1268 Ocean Springs Rd. Biloxi, MS 39530

Ocean Springs, MS 39564

228-374-8175

1268 Ocean Springs Road | Ocean Springs 228-215-3100

Dr. C.A. “Buddy” Brice graduated from Biloxi High School and attended LSU for his undergraduate degree. He completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree in 1978 at LSU and in August of 1980 opened the first pediatric dental clinic in Biloxi, joining only one other on the coast at the time. In 2012 the clinic opened a second location in Ocean Springs, and in 2016 welcomed the next generation when Dr. Austin McMurphy, nephew to Buddy and Jaye Brice, joined the practice.

Legacies OF THE COAST

McMurphy

Dr. Austin McMurphy attended undergrad at LSU. He then attended the University of Mississippi Medical Center School of Dentistry, graduating with his Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree in 2014 and completed a residency at LSU in 2016. Dr. McMurphy has also completed advanced training in behavior management, special needs dentistry for both children and adults (with a focus on autism), and providing care for expecting mothers. www.gcwmultimedia.com

Legacy continues

TIFFANY BOYTE-WEST LEADS FAMILY BUSINESS INTO THE FUTURE BY JENNIFER GENTILE

espite being the owner’s daughter, Tiffany Boyte-West got no special treatment at her father’s car dealership. “My dad was always the type of person to throw you into the deep end, and as long as he could still see your head bobbing, you were on your own to learn things for yourself,” recalls Tiffany, now the dealer manager at the family business, Bob Boyte Honda. “He was tough on his girls, but he knew it would serve us well in a male-dominated business world.”

Bob Boyte entered the car business in 1983 after eloping to Baton Rouge with West’s mom, Tandy. His dream of owning his own dealership, over two decades in the making, was realized when he launched his business in Brandon, Mississippi, in 2005. Today, Bob Boyte Honda remains a family affair — with Tiffany, her aunt, her sister and her husband, Andrew, working alongside her dad. In 2021, a new location in Moss Point opened its doors. As a child, Tiffany loved watching her father help others achieve the dream of

February 2022

buying a car — whether for themselves or a loved one. “My dad would walk through fire for his customers, and we saw that growing up,” she says. “We also saw him make mistakes and make things right for people. After all, his name is on the dealership. “But the car business is not for the faint of heart. It requires very long hours and time away from family at times.” Tiffany's earliest memories involve working in virtually every department at the dealership, starting with cleaning and detailing cars, but her aspirations led her to pursue a journalism degree at Ole Miss. Once “painfully shy,” she gained confidence by competing in pageants, including the Miss Mississippi contest, and was on her way to becoming a sports reporter at ESPN after graduation. “That career track ultimately didn’t work out, so I came home to regroup,” she recalls. “But my dad never pushed me to be in the business. It had to be my decision because he knew how much hard work it was going to be for me.” Rising to the challenge, Tiffany became the first female general manager at the Brandon store – and one of only 24 in the whole Honda family. A Japanese American, she’s also the first minority female general manager of her age in the country to run a dealership, as well as become vice president of the National Minority Association of Dealers, and the only female general manager who has toured all of Honda’s U.S. and Japanese plants.

“I saw the potential to run our store,” Tiffany says. After lots of training and being nationally certified, dad gave me the space to learn.” Not one to sit on the sidelines, Tiffany says those closest to her would describe her as a spitfire “I am very proud of the work I have done to keep our customers and team members satisfied, but it is a very demanding business,” she says. “My greatest rewards at the end of a long day or week are watching a customer leave in a new car, whether it’s a single mom who didn’t think she could afford it, a teen with a new license or a family upgrading due to a new addition on the way. The stories, and the roles that we get to play in their lives, are magical and make each day worthwhile.” The Internet may have changed the car-purchasing process, but Tiffany has found that most buyers, especially Honda customers, still want personal service. She’s also learned the value of collaboration in an extremely competitive industry. “I find that as a female, I love networking with my peers in the business; I have contacts and friends across the country who I can go to and bounce ideas off of,” she says. “I think that this type of dialogue simply creates more opportunities, not fewer.” Outside of the dealership, Tiffany has showcased her communication skills on her blog, Her Paper Bird, since 2015 — where she posts about fashion, lifestyle, travel, beauty and breaking the glass ceiling. Winding down can be hard for Tiffany, as her brain is constantly churning with ways to improve customers’ experience and build clientele. “We’ve never wanted to be a huge dealership; each buyer is too important to us,” she says. “Sales is the ultimate legacy business, and we try never to forget that.”

Your Dreams Can Come True.

With our Dreammaker™ Weddings personal loan, you can enjoy that perfect wedding and eat the cake too! You may even qualify for a little extra to fund the honeymoon without having to dip into savings or scale back your plans. Whether it’s for yourself, your daughter, son or anyone else, we offer great rates and our easy application process. Most of all, we offer our signature personalized Peoples Bank service that so many have come to know. Let us help you pave the way to your perfect day!

Our Branch Managers are ready to assist you with all of your lending needs, so please give us a call or stop in at any of our Branch Locations

It’s always been more than banking.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

HOW I BUILT MY BUSINESS

Coastal Concierge LLC W

ith a history of working for government agencies, nonprofits and private businesses, I had put the idea of owning my own business on the back burner. Throughout my career, I have always worked for someone else. Although my husband and I have been co-owners of a local plumbing company, and I handle the administrative tasks of that business, it is not my passion; that is his baby. I knew that I wanted to do something for myself other than work for someone else for the rest of my career. I also wanted to start a business that would provide services rather than sell items in a retail capacity. In May of 2020, after finally completing my bachelor of science degree in business administration from the University of Southern Mississippi, I had one goal out of the way; it was time to work on the next. The ideas for my business came to me in bits and pieces over the years and involved services that I either have paid or would have paid someone to do for me. The main idea was making visitor arrivals to short-term rentals easier than ever. One night, all my ideas came together, as well as what I should name my company. A few days later, I formed Coastal Concierge LLC. My focus is the customer, and my number-one goal is to make his or her life easier and offer the highest level of service — the level they deserve. If you are thinking of starting your own business, know that one of the biggest hurdles in becoming an entrepreneur is taking that first step. Be in your own corner. Cheer for yourself when no one else will. I have been at the helm since day one; it is a passion of mine, and my mind is constantly thinking of new services to offer and new ways to market my business to gain the biggest audience and future clientele. A new business owner must be ready to make sacrifices for her business and work when she normally would not want to. Be prepared for negative feedback, and welcome constructive criticism when it is offered. The most important advice I can offer is to be passionate about your business. Believe in it, and that will motivate you to be the best business owner possible for yourself and your customers. Michelle Chiasson is a lifelong Waveland resident and owner and operator of Coastal Concierge LLC, which offers assistance services ranging from errand-running and pet-sitting to party planning and vacation rental setup. To reach her, visit coastal.concierge@yahoo.com.

February 2022

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IN MARKETING, THE POWER REMAINS

word of mouth

BY LASHAUNDRA MCCARTY

she best marketing is word of mouth. Many of us have heard this phrase over the years, and that sentiment still holds true, even as marketing continues to evolve with the expansion of digital marketing tools and strategies develop. Customers expect brands and companies to say how great they are, so advertising from that vantage point has limited success. The most trusted testimony on a company’s performance comes from its customers. Customer reviews or testimonials about a company’s services or products are considered more objective, and if you have ever read the comments on social media posts or reviews on Yelp, you know that people — particularly those who are dissatisfied — do not hold back. Below are a few methods you can use to maximize the customer perspective:

CAPTURE IT

After you have finished a project, how many times have you graciously listened to a customer make kind comments and wished others could hear them? They can — if you capture the moment. When customers express enjoyment of your products or services, ask if you can record them sharing their experiences. I recommend video because it can be used in its entirety or in separate elements, such as audio only or text quotations for your website or marketing collateral.

REVIEWS ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Your next option is to ask for reviews or recommendations on social media. The power of social media reviews is that others can easily see them. It is social proof connected to an

February 2022

individual’s profile. The network of social media users connected to the person leaving the review will see that their connection was impressed with your work. This method also increases the interactivity on your social media accounts, which increases the potential audience reach.

customers are your business partners. Show them how valuable they are. Reviews or testimonials can be repurposed as content within promotion videos, the company website, social media posts, or advertisements and marketing collateral.

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION MOMENTS

Just a note: If a customer leaves an unfavorable review, do not ignore it. Discover what the disconnect is, and try to resolve the issue.

Regardless of the industry, there is competition for someone’s money, time and trust. Show your gratitude through customer appreciation campaigns. This could be a coupon, special gift, social media highlight or access to exclusive information or events, which gives the customer another opportunity to brag about how wonderful your business is. Your

LaShaundra McCarty is chief communication officer, LMc Communications. Learn more and connect with her via www.lashaundramccarty.com or https://linktr.ee/lashaundra.

IS IT TIME TO REFINANCE YOUR CAR LOAN? FROM NAVIGATOR CREDIT UNION

The car industry continues to face a significant shortage in key auto parts and new vehicles due to the pandemic. The lack of inventory is causing a spike in average car prices for both new and used cars. You can cash in on rising car values and refinance your auto loan. Here are some situations where you may consider refinancing. You want a better interest rate. If interest rates have dropped since you took out your original loan, it could be time to refinance. Even if the interest rate didn’t change, your credit score may have. If your credit score has significantly improved since you negotiated the original loan, you may qualify for a lower rate. You want lower monthly payments. Have you seen your income dip? Are you having difficulty covering your monthly payment? Refinancing to a longer term can bring your monthly payments down significantly. Depending on your situation, consider refinancing now but increasing your monthly payment once your financial situation has improved. You financed with a dealership. Dealers tend to charge higher rates to buyers who do not fall into the most qualified credit category. Consider checking around for better rates. Some financial

institutions may offer lower rates to those with less than stellar credit scores; plus, they may offer more affordable extras like extended warranties and GAP (guaranteed asset protection) coverage. You’re looking for extra cash You could take advantage of your vehicle’s appreciated value in today’s supply chain-challenged market by cashing out the equity. Refinance to keep your payments the same, and pocket the extra cash. And, if you don’t have an auto loan, you may find this is a good time to take out a secured loan using your vehicle as collateral. Before refinancing, it’s important to understand your current loan. Refinancing an auto means you’re paying off your existing loan and replacing it with a new one. You want to make sure your current loan does not have a prepayment penalty clause. The fees could cancel out any financial benefit of refinancing. The goal, after all, is to save money. Navigator Credit Union has over a dozen branches throughout Mississippi and Alabama. Learn more at https://navigatorcu.org/ or call 1-800-344-3281.

Navigate Your Way to a Lower Rate. Cash in on rising car values and refinance with Navigator. You could save money every month! Rates as Low as 1.99% APR*

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800-344-3281, Option 3 navigatorcu.org/auto-refinance * Terms and conditions apply. The payment amount would be $325.37 for $15,000 financed at 1.99% for 48-month term. Federally Insured by NCUA. © Navigator Credit Union

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It’s time to review your business’s

insurance protection

BY ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE

Your business is special. Your business is unique. You work countless hours making your business better. How are you protecting your investment in your business? Each industry has unique hazard exposures that you must consider and against which you must be protected. Develop a worst-case scenario and determine which losses you can prevent or mitigate. Then, obtain insurance for the risks you may not be able to avoid.

GENERAL LIABILITY INSURANCE Provides both defense and damages if you, your employees or your products or services cause, or are alleged to have caused, bodily injury or property damage to a third party. PROPERTY INSURANCE Provides building and business personal property, including office equipment, computers, inventory or tools, protection from fire, vandalism, theft, smoke damage etc. You also may want to consider business interruption/loss of earnings insurance coverage to protect your earnings if the business is unable to operate. COMMERCIAL AUTO INSURANCE Protects a company’s vehicles and vehicles that carry employees, products or equipment. WORKER'S COMPENSATION Provides wage replacement and medical benefit payments to employees who are injured on the job.

February 2022

PROFESSIONAL LIABILITY INSURANCE Provides defense and damages for failure to render or improperly rendering professional services and is critical for professionals such as lawyers, accountants, consultants, agents and any profession providing services.

COMMERCIAL UMBRELLA INSURANCE Provides an extension to an already existing insurance policy and covers beyond the regular policies.

DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS INSURANCE Protects the directors and officers of a company against their actions that affect the profitability or operations of the company.

Angelyn Treutel Zeringue is president of SouthGroup Insurance Services, a CPA, PWCAM, CBIA, and licensed Trusted Choice Insurance Agent. Reach her at (228) 385-1177, www. southgroupgulfcoast.com, or azeringue@southgroup.net.

DATA BREACH COVERAGE Provides protection in the event of data loss of sensitive or non-public information and all of the compliance requirements and legal action necessary following a breach.

There may be other coverages specific to your type of business, but this is a good start.

ELEVATIONS MCDOUGLE LAUNCHES CHILDREN’S BOOK Sharon Caples McDougle once helped astronauts like Dr. Mae Jemison, the first Black woman in space, suit up for their journeys. Now McDougle, a Moss Point native and former suit tech for the space shuttle program, has released a children’s book titled, “Suit Up for Launch with Shay!” The fun, educational book is ideal for kids ages 3-10 and walks readers through a typical suit up and answers many common questions, such as why astronauts wear the suit, why it’s orange, what it’s made of, how long it takes to put on, how astronauts go to the bathroom in it, etc. “The idea for my book came from my love of my job and my love of interacting with children,” McDougle says. “While working with the space shuttle program as a suit tech, I would take the suit and other equipment to schools and community events. I would demonstrate how the suit works and allow kids to try on a glove or the helmet to hopefully inspire them to want to work in a STEM-related field.” McDougle also wants to make children aware of other careers within the space program besides becoming an astronaut or rocket scientist.

MEMORIAL ACHIEVES MBSAQIP ACCREDITATION

“I love reading to children, and visiting schools was one of the things I loved most about my job,” she says. “I hope to inspire them to want to work with our nation’s space program, or at least pique their interest.” The book is illustrated by Cristielle Pimenta. “Suit Up for Launch with Shay!” is available on Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/ B09KNGDV66/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_ dp_6VZ5XVPE23HH92NSY5J9

We tend to draw a FUN crowd!

Memorial’s bariatric surgery center has been accredited as a Comprehensive Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program, a joint Quality Program of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. The MBSAQIP standards ensure that metabolic and bariatric patients receive care that improves their outcomes and chances of long-term success. MBSAQIP-accredited centers offer preoperative and postoperative care designed specifically for patients with obesity. “We are thrilled to be able to offer our patients this level of service at Memorial,” saiys Memorial Surgeon Director Dr. Kristine Carter. “Our staff has trained extensively, and we follow specific protocols and guidelines to ensure we meet all the standards set forth by MBSAQIP. “This is an exciting new chapter for our bariatric program, and we look forward to sharing it with the community!”

YOUR BUSINESS JUST GOT BETTER

HANCOCK CHAMBER

UpcomingEvents Events- -More Moretotocome...follow come...followus us Upcoming Upcoming Events - More to come...follow us Thursday,February February17 17 Thursday, Thursday, February 17 Bay Connects @ HardRock RockCafe Cafe Bay Connects @ Hard Bay Connects @ Hard Rock Cafe Sunday,February February20 20 Sunday, Sunday, February 20 Krewe of Barkloxi PAWrade Krewe of Barkloxi PAWrade Krewe of Barkloxi PAWrade

JOIN t FUN c he rowd!

Saturday,March March26 26 Saturday, Saturday, March 26 Don Wylie Memorial GolfTournament Tournament Don Don Wylie Memorial Golf Wylie Memorial Golf Tournament

Come by and see us! Come by and by see us! see us! Come and Biloxi Visitors Center Biloxi Center Biloxi Visitors 2ndVisitors Floor/East HallCenter 2nd (228) Floor/East Hall 2nd Floor/East 435-6149 Hall (228) 435-6149 (228) 435-6149 info@biloxibayareachamber.org BILOXI VISITORS CENTER info@biloxibayareachamber.org info@biloxibayareachamber.org www.biloxibayareachamber.org 2ndwww.biloxibayareachamber.org Floor/East Hall | (228) 435-6149 www.biloxibayareachamber.org facebook.com/biloxibayareachamber facebook.com/biloxibayareachamber facebook.com/biloxibayareachamber

COME BY AND SEE US!

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Photo credit: Albert J. Henrion, Jr. - AJH Photography Photo credit: Henrion, Jr. - AJHJr. Photography Photo Albert credit:J.Albert J. Henrion, - AJH Photography www.biloxibayareachamber.org Photo credit: Albert J. Henrion, Jr. - AJH Photography

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HERE’S WHAT TO ASK YOURSELF AT YOUR NEXT FINANCIAL CHECKUP

BY KATHY ROGERS

ith everything going on in your life, why do you make time for your annual physical? Maybe your insurance covers it. Maybe you want to ensure you are in good physical shape and catch any potential problems early. I believe the same can be said for your financial health. To ensure you are in good financial condition and stay that way, you must make time for an annual financial review with a professional. Let’s review three tips I’ve provided before to help you reset your finances in 2022: review your tax withholding, look at all your expenditures and update or begin a retirement savings plan. Here, I want to offer you three additional items you should discuss with a financial professional. These topics may not seem financially related at first glance, but I assure you they should be the foundation upon which you build your financial plan.

WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO YOU?

What is most important to you; what do you value most? Impulse spending? Being debt free? Purchasing your dream home? Leisure activities, boats, golf, shopping and family vacations? Supporting your favorite charity? Setting aside money for your children or grandchildren? Having

February 2022

a large retirement savings account? Your financial legacy? I encourage you to make a list of what matters to you. Discuss your list with your financial professional. This information will help him or her offer recommendations based on your priorities.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS?

Now that you have defined what is important to you, you can start setting goals in each of those areas. Review your budget, or develop one if you don’t have one, and make the necessary adjustments so your money is used in a way that’s consistent with what you value. Remember that a budget realignment is not always easy to accomplish. Don’t beat yourself up for your past spending and current debt. Instead, forgive yourself for any bad choices, and choose to discipline yourself going forward so you can accomplish your goals. You understand when you set a goal for physical health that it will take time to reach your goal; reaching your financial goals also will require time and self-discipline.

WHAT KIND OF LEGACY DO WANT TO LEAVE?

I find that people often overlook their financial life legacy. Maybe you consider yourself just an average person doing

the best you can with the life you’ve been dealt. Maybe you believe only “rich” people can leave a legacy; after all, the general definition of legacy includes money, property or possessions left behind when you die. I prefer to extend the standard financial legacy definition to include a financial life legacy. I believe every person leaves behind a financial life legacy, good or bad. This legacy is more than whether you leave behind a lump sum and includes how you viewed and handled money. Did you live paycheck to paycheck? Were you a spendthrift? Were you tightfisted or generous? Were you consumed with making more money or content with what you had? Did you pay your bills on time or teach your children how to work the system? Did you manage your money, or did it mange you? The answers to these questions tell you what your financial life legacy will be. The good news is that while there is breath in your body, there is hope. You can choose to discipline yourself and begin to move toward financial health. Make the time for a review of your financial health. You will be glad you did. Kathy Rogers is the vice president of Marston Rogers Group, a life planner and financial consultant. Reach her at (228) 206-5902 or Kathy@mrg.life.

home & family

Meet the Coast's

Cutest Kids! CONTEST SPONSOR

Hundreds of proud moms, dads, grandparents and others answered our call to enter their beautiful babies in Gulf Coast Woman’s 2022 Cutest Kid Contest. We were overwhelmed with all the adorableness and are pleased to introduce the top votegetters in four categories:

BABY: AGES 0-11 MONTHS WINNER 419

votes

2ND PLACE

368 votes

ANDI SUE NARAMORE 11 months Hurley, MS

3RD PLACE

343 votes

SOPHIE WALTMAN 4 months Ocean Springs, MS

RHETT ADAM

5 months Diamondhead, MS

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TODDLER: AGES 1-2 YEARS WINNER 2ND PLACE

411

votes

365 votes

MAJOR THROWER 1 year old Long Beach, MS

3RD PLACE

298 votes

KOEN KASZUBOWSKI 2 years old Long Beach, MS

ELLA ROSE COUEY 2 years old Kiln, MS

WINNER

PRE-K: AGES 3-4 YEARS

669 votes

Cutest Kids Photo Contest CONTEST SPONSOR

MCKENNAH PATTERSON 4 years old Moss Point, MS

February 2022

PRE-K: AGES 3-4 YEARS

2ND PLACE

542 votes

MASON WILLIAMS 3 years old Gulfport, MS

3RD PLACE

Cutest Kids Photo Contest CONTEST SPONSOR

475 votes

RAIDEN SISON 3 years old Long Beach, MS

BIG KIDS: AGES 5-8 YEARS WINNER 359 votes

2ND PLACE

349 votes

TYLER DEMOUEY 6 years old Pascagoula, MS

3RD PLACE

330 votes

WRENLEY BOGARD 5 years old Biloxi, MS

LYDIA RAE WARD 5 years old Gautier, MS

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#IMOMSOHARD IS BY JENNIFER GENTILE

#relatable

Comedy duo is bringing laughs to the Beau Rivage

ristin Hensley and Jen Smedley say they want to take over the universe, but they’re too busy being soccer moms — at least when they’re not making audiences roar with laughter. Whether the best friend duo is lampooning swimsuit season or fessing up to their parenting fails, they could be any pair of moms venting their frustrations over a glass (or two) of wine. The only difference is that their open, honest — and hilarious — approach to life and motherhood has made them stars on YouTube, where their #IMOMSOHARD web series has garnered over 2.2 million followers and 300 million views. Hensley and Smedley have now taken their standup act across the country with #IMOMSOHARD, The Getaway Tour, which comes to the Beau Rivage Resort & Casino on Feb. 18. “We give women permission to be themselves and laugh about stuff rather than take it way too seriously …,” Smedley says. “There’s no tutorial or how-to. It’s just come out with us and have a good time.” Although they grew up near each other and had friends in common, Hensley and Smedley didn’t meet until they both wound up in Los Angeles. The pair never could have imagined when they bonded over a beer, and both being from Nebraska, that their comedy partnership would become such a hit so quickly. Hensley recalls one night when she and Smedley were both crying “because we just felt like we were terrible at motherhood.” “But then we couldn’t help but laugh because it’s so ridiculous,” she says. “Everything that you measure as success as a mother – you can’t reach it. You’ll always try, but you can’t get there. “That’s the funny part, so we decided to make these videos .... We were like, women need to laugh, and it doesn’t need to be so important.” With four kids, two husbands and six dogs between them, Hensley and Smedley find the humor in everything from postbaby bodies to how much they spend on babysitters. In their memorable first video, Smedley forgot her 9-month-old daughter’s name.

February 2022

“I did what any good friend would do, and I laughed so hard I peed my pants,” Hensley says. “That was when we figured out, oh, this is the thing we need to talk about. This is funny. If we’re laughing at each other, probably someone else will find it funny — and it so happens they do.” The memory lapse notwithstanding, Smedley considers getting a trampoline her worst parenting misstep. “You think it’s going to be a good time, but all it is is a lot of injuries, like knockedout teeth, huge fights, a lot of heads get stepped on …,” she says. “All my neighbors hear is me yelling commands down to the trampoline. It’s pretty embarrassing.” Although motherhood provides plenty of fodder for jokes, the pair say you don’t need to have kids of your own to enjoy their show. The vibe they’re going for, explains Hensley, is a giant party. “We sing. We dance, We talk about hot guys,” she says. “We want it to feel like the best happy hour you’ve ever been to where you come home and maybe didn’t even expect to laugh that hard; that’s our goal.” Smedley adds, “It’s a really good excuse to get a bunch of ladies you haven’t seen in a while together.” Checking out the pair’s #IMOMSOHARD podcast provides a good preview of what the show has in

store. Outside of their internet success, the friends have written a New York Times best-selling book, landed deals with Fortune 100 companies and taped a standup comedy special for Amazon Prime Video. Another book could be in their future, or perhaps even a movie or television show. “Who knows?” Hensley says. “The sky’s the limit!”

IF YOU GO:

The #IMOMSOHARD Getaway Tour at the Beau Rivage Theatre Feb. 18 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $29.95, $39.95, $49.95 and $69.95 (plus tax and service charge) To reserve, call (888) 566-7469 or visit www.beaurivage.com “GIRLS NIGHT OUT” PRE-PARTY IN EIGHT75 Live music by Mike Halat 5:30-8:30 p.m. “GIRLS NIGHT OUT” AFTER-PARTY IN EIGHT75 Live music by Dr. Zhivegas 9 p.m.-2 a.m.

FEBRUARY 18 Two moms. (Not married.) (Actually, married. Just not to each other.) Four kids. Two husbands. Three dogs. Minimally, two glasses of wine. Lots of laughs.

For tickets, visit beaurivage.com or call 1.888.566.7469. Must be 18.

KEEP THE PARTY GOING LIVE MUSIC • SPECIALTY COCKTAILS

Must be 21.

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Parents, here’s how to handle a picky eater 1. RECOGNIZE WHERE YOUR CHILD IS DEVELOPMENTALLY WHEN IT COMES TO EATING BEHAVIOR.

s a physician who focuses on the health of children’s gastrointestinal tracts, I often am asked, “How do I get my child to eat?” Over my many years of practicing medicine, I’ve come to learn that what parents really want to know is, “Am I doing this right?” or “Am I doing enough to ensure my child is healthy?” I’d love to be able to say, “As a tummy doctor and parent myself, I have the key to getting any child to eat anything.” In reality, even I have been guilty of acting as a short-order cook at times to ensure that my girls would eat something (one daughter went years refusing any cheese-containing food; the other decided at age 9 to become vegetarian). The stress of it all, and the inherent self-doubt we all feel at some point as parents, can make it feel like it’s just all too much. That’s why I’m offering tummydoctor approved tips to help improve your child’s eating habits and overall attitude toward food.

“Picky” eating can be very normal behavior at certain ages. Toddlers are notorious for loving a certain food so much that they refuse to eat much else — sometimes for weeks. As soon as parents relent and stock up on enough of their favorite eats to feed a toddler army, the child suddenly decides that he or she hates said food and refuses to eat one more bite of it. Though disconcerting for parents, this behavior is usually developmentally normal in toddlers and preschoolers. Because their eating behavior tends to be so wonky, the use of objective markers like growth charts is super important. In plain English, if your child is growing well, he or she likely is healthy

2. MAKE MEALTIME FUN.

If you allow yourself to become overly stressed during mealtime, your child may begin to negatively associate food and eating with stress. Do your best to remain good natured and relaxed. Make it fun by getting your child involved in meal planning and preparation in an age-appropriate way. What child can resist trying a bit of his or her own culinary creation?

3. BALANCE IS IMPORTANT.

Being excessively restrictive with your child’s diet will prevent him or her from learning dietary balance. Incorporate “fun” foods into the meal plan (eg., Taco

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Tuesdays). Set limits on foods with high sugar content by setting a weekly “sugar budget” BY DR. APRIL ULMER for your child. This allows your child to have some autonomy regarding what he or she eats while allowing you to control sugar intake.

4. KNOW WHEN TO SEEK HELP.

If your child is an excruciatingly “funny” eater, it is never a bad idea to seek the help of a professional such as a “tummy doctor.” It is important to trust your instincts with regards to your child. For many of the children who come through my door, abnormal eating behavior is being fueled by a physical condition. As a result, they may require evaluations such as laboratory testing, imaging or endoscopy to uncover the cause of their difficulties. Helping a child become a good eater is a marathon, not a sprint. Remain consistent. Be patient, and remember that every child is different. Do the best you can every day, and in most cases that will be enough. If not, don’t hesitate to seek a professional who can confirm or deny your suspicions, and help guide your child toward a healthy, lifelong relationship with food. Dr. April Ulmer, a.k.a. “The Tummy Dr.,” is a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist who practices at Kids and Tummies in Gulfport. Reach her at thetummydr@gmail.com.

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GULFPORT • 8950 Lorraine Rd. Ste. E, Gulfport, MS 39503 • 228-832-1226 ©2022 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) are registered trademarks of the College Board. PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None of these entities were involved in the production of, and do not endorse, this program. *Not valid with any other offers. **Grade level results are based on cumulative average grade level increases in reading and math for 17,445 students from 2010-2014 using the full set of available student data. ***Results are based on surveys of 3,289 Huntington students graduating in 2019, using their initial Huntington Academic Evaluation and final SAT/ACT test score. HLC4297.1

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COAST EPISCOPAL LAUNCHES CUTTING EDGE TRANSITIONAL KINDERGARTEN PROGRAM FROM COAST EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

hen Coast Episcopal’s Head of School Jake Winter reached out to Melissa Flickinger to gauge her interest in teaching the school’s first transitional kindergarten class, Flickinger responded with a resounding “yes!” The University of Southern Mississippi graduate has 13 years of experience in preschool and elementary education, with the last four as a preschool intervention teacher. During that time, Flickinger had been keeping a watchful eye on research coming from California and Texas, two states leading the nation in implementing a transitional year kindergarten program that she believed could fill a need she had recognized on the Coast. Flickinger adds that her eagerness to accept Winter’s invitation to join his team also was influenced by having taught in the school’s 2004-2005 preschool program and, as a CES parent, watching each of her three children thrive at the school. According to Flickinger, the T-K program is a tremendous opportunity for students to have a “bonus” year between preschool and kindergarten. In many cases, the student who benefits greatly from this bridge year has intellectual abilities that exceed their emotional maturity level, and Flickinger says she believes this extra year of social and emotional development will make a world of difference as her students face high school, college and beyond. Parent Leah Watters says, "Our son, James, is in T-K this year,

and we are delighted by the program. The topics of learning are so creative and relevant to their little minds. The enjoyable curriculum is teaching James to love learning, and the structured classroom environment, combined with topics of natural curiosity, invite him to love learning." With a base curriculum focused on STEAM (integrating science, technology, engineering, art and math), Flickinger also incorporates ASL (American Sign Language) and Spanish into the hands-on activities that encourage learning through play. In addition to the T-K class lessons, the students participate each week in "specials," including art, music and science lab. T-K curriculum is based on the needs and interests of Flickinger’s students and, accordingly, will change from year to year. The concepts, however, will be consistent. Identifying a student who may benefit from the program is the result of assessments by the CES educators, who then follow up with conversations to gather input from the parents’ observations. Enrollment occurs once determination has been made by both the educators and the parents that this is the right decision to support the child. For additional information, contact Coast Episcopal School at (228) 452-9442 or visit coastepiscopalschool.org.

Coast EpisCopal sChool Cherished and Engaged Students

• Toddler-Sixth Grades • Joy-filled, 25 Acre Campus • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio • Collaborative, STEAM-based Curriculum (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) • Seemann Makerspace • Gail Keenan Art Center • After School Enrichment/Lagniappe Classes • After School Care

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February 2022

5065 Espy Avenue Long Beach, MS 39560 Photos by Ann Madden

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1st Block of Main Street in the Heart of Old Town! It is an Income Producing Property! Unit A 899 SF currently used as an Airbnb is a 1 bd 1 bath w/ living area, laundry, kitchen/dining. Unit B 1,195 SF currently used as Retail but can be that again or more! Total of 3,017 sq.

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HOME

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February 2022

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How we met

VALENTINE’S DAY IS A PERFECT TIME FOR COUPLES TO REFLECT ON THE EARLY DAYS OF THEIR ROMANCE. IN THAT SPIRIT, WE ASKED OUR AUDIENCE TO SUBMIT STORIES OF HOW THEY MET THEIR SIGNIFICANT OTHER. HERE ARE A COUPLE OF OUR FAVORITES:

‘Going to that Halloween party was one of the best decisions I have ever made’ Casey Kelley and Matthew Lizana Together for over three years, engaged since 2020

‘It was the flat tire that changed my life’ Gregg S. Magee, Sr. and Irene T. Magee Married for over 22 years I have always loved a good fairytale. However, until it happened to me, I didn’t believe they actually came true. I believe the story of how we met is just that — a fairytale with a very happy ending. It was Oct. 11, 1998, and I was leaving the student union from a Sunday evening Zeta Phi Beta Sorority meeting at the University of Southern Mississippi. Gregg had been at the Danforth Chapel praying, which is what he did almost nightly while on campus. As I entered my car and started to drive off, I noticed my car was shaking a making a loud noise, so I pulled over. I was having a blowout at the exact moment Gregg was jogging by. He stopped and changed my tire while many other guys just stood and watched. As a gesture of gratitude, I offered to cook dinner for him, but he declined. He was preparing to give his first sermon on Oct. 18, 1998, and he felt it might be a distraction. Over the next couple of weeks, we continued running into each other. I continued to offer dinner, so he finally agreed. On Oct. 29, 1998, we had our first date. I prepared dinner for us, which was pot roast with carrots and potatoes, broccoli casserole, homemade macaroni and cheese and rolls, all topped off with strawberry delight pie. The rest is history. We have now been married for over 22 years and have five beautiful children. We work together in ministry, where he is the pastor of Empowerment Ministries Christian Center, and I am the executive pastor. Don’t let anyone tell you fairytales don’t come true. I say it was the flat tire that changed my life.

February 2022

Matthew and I met when we were in high school together (early 2000s). We weren't very close, although we had many of the same friends. We kept in touch through Facebook over the years, just a random “like” or comment here and there. Every year, Matthew would throw a Halloween party and invite me, but I never could go for one reason or another. He invited me again in 2018. I had no plans, so I went that night after getting off work. I was dressed as a vampire, and he was a character from the video game "PUBG." He was wearing short shorts, a sleeveless turtleneck, crew socks and a beanie. I guess it was the short shorts that did it because that night was the start of us; we just didn't quite know it yet. We hit it off instantly, but he left for a military work trip a few days later. We talked the whole time he was gone. He returned a few weeks later and surprised me while I was at dinner with my friends, which he had arranged with them beforehand. He brought me flowers and asked me to go out with him. Of course, I said yes. We got engaged in 2020 (he took my son to dinner before he proposed and asked his permission) and then had a baby and bought a house together in 2021. We’re now getting married in November. Going to that Halloween party was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

REAL ESTATE IN TODAY'S WORLD Working to overcome the challenges homebuyers face in today's market

Whether due to COVID, material or employee shortages, or a combination of the three, almost every industry faces challenges in today’s environment. Real estate is one of those most affected. The struggles have created a shortfall of new construction homes and existing homes are selling at a record pace. Home equity is rising, making selling and upgrading their home an excellent choice for homeowners. As a REALTOR, I can find buyers for new construction and existing homes. I have also been designing new home builds for Acadian Homes and Myco Construction. The goal is to combine beautiful finishes that offer the best value without sacrificing quality. Homes have high-end features such as gourmet kitchens with 3CM quartz or granite countertops, stunning backsplashes, custom hood vents and all stainless-steel appliances. Homeowners enjoy 100% waterproof luxury vinyl plank flooring, fireplaces, luxury spa baths, custom closets and so much more. To provide the best customer experience, Acadian Homes and Myco Homes will continue to offer these professionally designed custom homes. Built as if each were a model home, creations in 𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓 𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄𝐄 𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐓𝐒𝐒𝐒𝐒 will not disappoint! View upcoming designs and several previous new homes below. To help you visualize the sizes of the rooms, check out the design selections with gorgeous pieces available at Taylor Furniture. SCAN FOR AVAILABLE & UPCOMING HOMES

Susie Siemiontkowski Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty 228-287-1000 Office 228-2 -2 21 irect

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CHRIS BOUDREAUX AGENCY

We offer services for both RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL PROPERTY owners including, but not limited to: Personal Assistant Services | Property Management Vacation Rental Turnovers for Air BnB and VRBO Properties Party and Special Event Co-ordination MICHELLE CHIASSON - 228-493-0236 CoastalMSconcierge.com

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Owner Mary Ann Strickland travels the South procuring specialty items to stock the shelves of the store. Her expertise has been cultivated in areas of fashion, jewelry, lawn and garden, hardware, paint, tools and gifts galore. She invites you to experience this one of a kind store!

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February 2022

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Thank you for supporting local family-owned businesses!

Need help moving your household goods or relocating your office? Call 228.297.5676

or submit your request at www.mightymenmoverms.com What our customers say about us Excellent moving skills, and great customer service! On top of that great prices. I will definitely be using Mighty Men Movers in the near future. Just wanted to let the owner know that the 3 men who cam and moved us were very professional, prompt, friendly, and very efficient! I will strongly recommend your company to anyone who needs to move. Thanks again!! - G. & B. Etchison Mighty Men Movers did an excellent job with my long-distance move. They were fast, efficient, and... - R. Thornton We have worked with Mighty Men Movers for several years and are never disappointed with their service. They are always accommodating to our moving needs and have the best price around. When I have to find a moving company for my personal move, there was no hesitation, I called Mighty Men because they are the best! - N. Bedsole, Mental Health Assoc. of South Mississippi

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THE KEYS TO SUCCESSFUL

co-parenting BY ELIZABETH ZIMMERMAN

Sharing a healthy co-parenting relationship requires moms and dads to be consistent in setting rules and expectations for themselves and their child.

o-parenting children has become the norm for many moms and dads in the United States. With nearly half of all marriages ending in divorce and increasing economic pressures requiring both parents to work outside the home, successful co-parenting can ensure that children whose parents are no longer together transition easily into new routines. Communication is the key to being successful in your co-parenting endeavors. Talking to one another about day-to-day routines can ensure the best outcome for the child. Many parents use electronic calendars or communication platforms like Our Family Wizard to keep up with children’s schedules and events and enhance communication with the other parent. Sharing a healthy co-parenting relationship requires moms and dads to be consistent in setting rules and expectations for themselves and their child. Parents should consider establishing guidelines for parents and for children to follow at both homes. Kids’ rules can be as simple as bedtimes, screen time and chores. Additionally, parents’ rules may consist of no fighting in front of children, designation of drop-off times/locations and which forms of discipline are acceptable. Parents must always remember that the objective is to present the child with a good experience. Positive parenting requires, clear boundaries, flexibility and a commitment to working together, communicating

February 2022

consistently without hostility or anger and respecting the other parent’s time with the child. Many parents make a written parenting plan to keep everyone abreast of the responsibilities and expectations of their role. By using such a plan, children will learn that parents can work in unison to ensure that communication mishaps are few, reassuring the child that he or she will have consistent, caring parenting. Children’s schedules often are difficult to manage. Parents should make every effort to regulate their child’s routine by keeping school events, sports, dance and other activities as they were before their parents’ relationship ended. From time to time, either parent may need to ask a “favor” of the other to ensure these commitments are honored. Collaboration between parents is vital, and inclusion of the children in some matters may be necessary. As the child ages, his or her input can be used to formulate a new parenting plan. With great communication and a considerable amount of patience and work, co-parenting can ensure children have good mental health and a sense of security. Elizabeth Zimmerman is a licensed clinical social worker in private practice in Gulfport. Reach her at Mindful Matters Outpatient Mental Health Clinic at (228) 284-4651.

Experience The Difference At the Gulf Coast’s Newest Honda Dealer!

Thanks to you, Bob Boyte Honda is the only consecutive President’s Award winner since 2005. Stop by our state-of-the-art facilities in Central Mississippi and our newest location on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Take advantage of our new and pre-owned inventory deals, superior detail crew, and our award-winning service department offering a complimentary wash and vacuum with every service. Come by one of our award-winning locations and see for yourself! Visit us online at bobboytehondamosspoint.com.

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What to talk to your kids about… and when BY JESSI ROBERTSON

As a mom of four and a family therapist for almost 17 years, I have talked with many parents who are unsure how to discuss some difficult topics with their children. It is normal to feel scared, uncomfortable or even embarrassed to bring up some things with your kids, but communication is a huge factor in raising resilient, healthy and happy children. If you are not sure when you should start addressing certain subjects, here is a general guide.

BODY BOUNDARIES: AGES 3-5

Encourage your kids to respect themselves and others. Teach them about appropriate touch and how to say “no” to unwanted touch, and teach them to identify trusted adults they can talk to. It is also important for parents to model healthy body image.

PUBERTY AND DEVELOPMENT: AGES 8-12

If this talk causes embarrassment, it is always helpful to keep the discussion based in science. Let your children know that their bodies are changing, and this is normal. Teach children about the chemicals in their bodies (hormones) that are working to help them grow, and explain that it is normal to feel weird or out of control during this process.

SEX AND HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS: AGES 10-13 As your child is developing, or possibly even when you began to explain puberty, you also might have gotten questions about why these changes happen. This is a great opportunity to talk to your child about sex and reproduction. This is also a chance to begin talking with your child about what healthy relationships look like and your family’s values.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND TEXTING AGES 8+ (AND ONGOING)

This will be an evolving conversation as your child’s access to technology grows and as technology advances. Tech and social media are fun ways to communicate, but

February 2022

parents can talk to their kids about online safety and what is OK and not OK to share with others. Whether your child has a cell phone yet or not, it’s still important to make him or her aware of the risks, as well as the benefits, of technology. Educate your child on school rules and laws regarding social media and sharing content with others and what your family or others would consider inappropriate. A good rule of thumb for kids: Never put anything on text/social media that you wouldn’t want your mom or grandma to read if she saw a screenshot. Jessi Robertson, MS, LMFT, is a licensed therapist and owner of Bloom Wellness in Ocean Springs. Reach her at jessi@bloom4wellness.com.

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KEEP YOUR PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

at an appropriate level FROM HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

arental involvement is an important factor in your child’s school success, but there is such a thing as over-involvement. While you can do many things as a caring parent to help your child do well in school, there are also things you should avoid. Here are several tips on how to keep your involvement appropriate and ensure it is beneficial.

SHOW AN INTEREST

One of the simplest and most effective ways to benefit your child is to ask about what he or she is learning. Make school a topic of nightly conversation, but do not just focus on where your child is struggling. Ask what your child likes about different subjects and what he or she is working on that’s interesting.

MONITOR HOMEWORK, BUT LET THEM TAKE THE LEAD

Especially when children are younger, there is nothing wrong with monitoring progress, checking their homework each night for neatness or mistakes or helping when they have questions. Just remember that school is your child’s responsibility.

DON’T TRY TO BE THE TEACHER

There inevitably will be times (if there haven’t been already) that your child will need help solving a problem or understanding something in an assignment. While it’s fine to walk your child through the steps, the best thing you can do is encourage him or her to jot down questions or look through notes or textbooks for guidance or clarity. In other words, you don’t need to reteach your child concepts. Instead, help children solve their own problems and advocate for themselves when they are confused.

HELP YOUR CHILD SET GOALS

Goal-setting is an important exercise for students of all ages, but not something many children do on their own. Guide your child through it, but remember not to take over. Let children share with you what matters to them and how they think they can achieve those things. Encourage them to show initiative and support them in their goals.

February 2022

As adults, it is important to find the right balance between supporting our students and helping them build their independence. The danger of “helicopter parenting” is that your child will struggle to transition into the real world. He or she will not build self-discipline and learn to handle obstacles independently. Understandably, you don’t want your child to fail, but it is important that your child puts effort into school — on his or her own. Monitoring performance is reasonable, but try not to get overly involved in homework or control everything a child does as a student. Lastly, while volunteering in the classroom and attending Parent Teacher Organization meetings can be rewarding and beneficial for your community, once again, the most important thing is that you care about your child’s education. Hold children to high standards and encourage them to make school a priority. Let them know that you believe in their abilities and nurture their good habits at home. The Huntington Learning Center Gulfport is located at 8950 Lorraine Road, Unit E, Gulfport. Contact the center at (228) 206-2353.

Parker Contracting has been working with families for decades to bring their construction dreams to life. Trust us to be your choice for all of your residential and commercial contracting needs. Whether mending after a disaster, building new construction, or remodeling an existing home or business, Parker Contracting will work with you to make your dream a reality!

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Twenty Acres with frontage on Larue and a small portion on Double Still Road , heavily wooded. Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty, Inc Cynthia S. Joachim, REALTOR Office: 228-287-1000 Direct: 228-760-6865 cynthia.joachim@gmail.com www.alfonso.com

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GET INSPIRED BY 2022’S

hottest design trends Recent years have shifted the way we view our spaces and forced us to use our homes in more multi-functional ways. Whether you’re planning a major house overhaul or a minor room makeover, here are some of 2022’s biggest interior design trends to try in your own home:

CONVERTIBLE FURNITURE

As we go further into 2022, versatility will grow with more convertible furniture and multi-use of spaces and interior design pieces.

BY JENNIFER MILLER Jennifer Miller is a certified interior designer, professional home stager and the president of Jennuwine Design, Sophisticated Staging. Reach her at jenn@ jennuwinedesign.net

MINIMALIST

While minimalism has become more common in recent years, extreme minimalism is definitely on-trend for 2022. Many people don’t want their house to feel “cluttered,” and they love the “open/ airy” feel. Minimalism captures the art of living with the minimal amount necessary. In addition to creating space, decluttering is known to help reduce stress. Given our world’s current state, we could all use less pressure.

SUSTAINABLE

Sustainability’s influence in the interior design world has increased significantly. This year, we will see more organic and recycled materials implemented than ever before. Expect to see furnishings, flooring and architectural elements that use environmentally friendly materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, jute, cork, metal, glass, and recycled plastic.

February 2022

GO GREEN

Green is an easy color to incorporate into any room when adding natural elements, like plants. This year, you will see various shades of green in several different aspects of a space. Emerald green gives rooms a rich, deep feel, while sage greens give your space a relaxing vibe.

EARTHY COLORS

While I always will have a soft spot in my heart for blue and white décor, I am seeing such a shift to earthy colors in home décor and paint palettes this year.

WALLPAPER

Wallpaper can seem very intimidating. Ten years ago, I had no idea that I would grow to love wallpaper. But with so many different designs and colors, it is the perfect way to spice up any room. Wallpaper has come a long way in both design and application. Peel-and-stick wallpaper is very popular. It can be a bit pricey, but it’s well worth it for the ease of installation and removal.

GREIGE

NON-WHITE KITCHENS

The timeless look of white kitchens has had staying power over the last decade and will remain popular for years to come. However, this year, a new era of tones is on the rise. Natural wood islands, cabinets and shelving are

becoming a popular trend. Two-toned cabinets have been trending for some time, and this will continue well into this year. I recommend using the darker cabinet color on the base cabinets and the lighter color on top.

Some people may never want to see beige paint again because it isn’t contemporary enough. And some people might never want to look at a gray paint color again because it is too cold. That’s why we have greige; It acts as a neutral palette, complementing whatever color scheme it is paired with. Dare I say it, beige is on its way back — not entirely like it was 15 years ago, but you will see this shade make a reappearance.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

ADVERTORIAL

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HERITAGE HOUSE GIFTS

Bandol Cocktail Glass $16.00

WHITE BY THE WEDDING COLLECTION

COASTAL HARDWARE Happily Ever After Hour set $28.00

WHITE BY THE WEDDING COLLECTION

Mardi Gras Selection

FRENCH DRUG COMPANY Mardi Gras Mask Chip & Dip $59.95

THE RADISH LOFT

Mississippi Made Pottery

FRENCH DRUG COMPANY

February 2022

ROBIN’S NEST IN THE PASS

TREND

Bird Bath $40

style

GIFTS THAT WILL MAKE HIS VALENTINE’S DAY Is your guy impossible to buy for? Here are some sure-to-please Valentine’s gift suggestions from Grant’s Menswear and S.F. Alman, Ltd.

Plum Thicket lapel pin by Brackish, $65 GRANT’S MENSWEAR

Filson Dryden briefcase, $195 S.F. ALMAN, LTD

Silk bow ties by Carrot & Gibbs, $75 GRANT’S MENSWEAR

Castillo folding knife with olivewood handle, comes with leather sheath and sharpening stone, $121 S.F. ALMAN, LTD

Colonel Littleton leather desk caddy, $60 S.F. ALMAN, LTD Woven multi-color belt by Peter Millar, $125 GRANT’S MENSWEAR

Travel spray cologne by Peter Millar, $58 GRANT’S MENSWEAR

Laguiole pocketknife with juniper wood handle, $225 S.F. ALMAN, LTD

Hults Bruk hatchet, $167 S.F. ALMAN, LTD

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SPRING/SUMMER FASHION PREVIEW

What everyone is wearing in 2022 The world is opening up with bright, bold colors for 2022. If you want to stay on the cutting edge of fashion, then you won't want to miss these six trends for spring-summer: EYE-CATCHING HUES

Designer Cynthia Rowley introduced her Spring 2022 ready-towear collection that featured bright, bold shades of lemon yellow, hot pink and red-orange. Models took to the runway in evening gowns in these lush, bright hues.

OVERSIZED BOXY JACKETS AND SKIRT SUITS

Chanel and Prada both showcased oversized jackets with shorts, flared pants or skirts. Under these jackets, designers paired a bra top — which is the new version of the crop top.

FRINGE

Do you remember that fringe jacket from the 60s? Well, if you saved yours, pull it out because fringe or carwash straps were shown at Balmain and Burberry. Fringe adds movement and interest to your look.

PEARLS

Say ‘hello” to the accessory of the moment. Do pearls ever really go out? Layered pearls with gold chains — the bigger the better — always make a statement. Don’t be afraid to pile it on! I, for one, am happy to see everyone dressing up again. Of course, we still have athleisure, and I don’t think this trend will die anytime soon. Nonetheless, it's nice to see suits again and lots of bright colors!

THE REVAMPED LITTLE BLACK DRESS

This closet staple has received an overhaul, and the new version is long with cutouts. I know what you’re thinking, and yes, cutouts do reveal more skin than many are comfortable showing. However, there are ways to be on-trend and still look and feel comfortable. A black dress with a cold shoulder will give you the same effect as a dress with a side cutout.

BELL BOTTOMS

Guess what’s back! Yes, the ’70s have returned with high-waisted, flared pants and wide-legged trousers. Just when you thought you would never be free of your skinny jeans, high-waisted flared jeans are “in” again.

February 2022

Brenda Blount, director of development for the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, has a background that includes stints as a retail and fashion merchandising executive, image consultant, stylist, pageant coach and model. Reach her at (228) 374-5547 or development@georgeohr.org.

BY BRENDA BLOUNT

WOMAN’S CLINIC, P.A.

GYNECOLOGY & OBSTETRICS FOR WOMEN ON THE COAST

REVEAL YOUR INNER SELF

SAVE UP TO

NEW YEAR, NEW SKIN

ON VI PEELS!

- By: Dr. Zein Obagi

Deborah Meza, LMT #187 Aesthetician, Medical Skin Care, Laser Technician, Massage Therapist, Ideal Protein Coach

DEBORAH MEZA, Laser, Skin Care and Massage Department 228-341-7879 OB/GYN CLINIC, 4577 13th Street, GULFPORT: 228-864-2752 OB/GYN CLINIC, 2781 C.T. Switzer Drive, Suite # 306, BILOXI: 228-822-6368 THOMAS W. LEHMAN, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. • JOHN F. PAPPAS, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. JOANNA M. TRUS, M.D. F.A.C.O.G. • ALISHA H. WARE, M.D. F.A.C.O.G.

Now Accepting

WWW.WOMANSCLINICPA.NET www.gcwmultimedia.com

g n i l her secrets l i p S CHARI DAVIS is the owner and

lead designer of Wolf Feather Honey Interiors, the owner and designer of wedding and event venue The Jackson Pearl in Downtown Ocean Springs and owner and designer of The Bootleg Howl, a private vacation rental and ultra-swanky photography location in the heart of downtown Biloxi. She and her husband, Craig, also are about to launch The Rad Sipper — a limo tour of the coast’s top breweries. Check out the go-to beauty products this busy woman can’t live without: TOM FORD NOIR EAU DE PARFUM

Just because it’s technically “pour homme” doesn’t mean this femme can’t rock it. This scent is sultry, deep and offers a bold aroma of money, leather and a delicious vanilla tobacco pipe. For those who are scent fanatics, this one is truly intoxicating.

MARIO BADESCU FACIAL SPRAY WITH ALOE, HERBS AND ROSE WATER

I have a mini obsession with the scent of rose. I try to incorporate it into all my properties somehow, whether it’s a rose garden, rose-scented candles or even rose oil aromatherapy. It’s a sophisticated, nostalgic and happy scent for my soul. This facial spray is a cult classic, and I first received it from my friend, Melissa, who is a very talented florist and knows me too well. I’ve used this every day since.

MAC FIX FLUID 24-HOUR WEAR FOUNDATION

I have a lot of freckles, and I’m on the go nonstop. So when I apply foundation, I need some natural-looking coverage — and I need it to last in all sorts of climates, including the Southern heat and humidity, while staying put all day long. This is the only foundation I’ve discovered that truly stands the test of time and looks even better as it settles throughout the day.

L’OREAL PARIS INFALLIBLE PRO – LAST LIQUID LIPSTICK

Whether it’s a neutral pout or a bold lip, I must have a lipstick that lasts throughout my 16-hour workdays. L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro – Last is by far the best triedand-true, longest-lasting lipstick I’ve ever used. Each and every time I wear it, I get compliments and comments on the color and its staying power.

MAC LIP PENCIL IN RUBY – WOO

If you’re going for any perfect cherry red lip, Mac Lip Pencil in Ruby – Woo is it. You can use it to shape, line or even fill in your lips, and it’s simply perfect.

VASELINE PURE PETROLEUM JELLY

The staple of all beauty staples, it’s perfect for skin, nails and even hair sometimes. It’s great after exfoliating, perfect for hands and cuticles and adds that extra natural glow to face and body when you’re going out on the town.

February 2022

L’OREAL PARIS ORIGINAL VOLUMINOUS MASCARA

My mascara of choice for over 15 years, it’s thick and coats really well, especially after week three. They have fun shades too, like blue and green, which are perfect for adding an unexpected pop of color to your

normal makeup routine. I have baby blue eyes, so the colored mascara has always add a fun effect whether worn on its own or layered as a top coat.

MILANI BAKED HIGHLIGHTER – DOLCE PERLA

This is the most neutral and longest-lasting highlighter I’ve ever used. It has both golden and pink undertones and naturally pairs with any makeup color combos. Use it on your eyes, cheeks and even lips for a natural glow, and layer it on thick for a perfect holiday sparkle.

HASK ARGAN OIL REPAIRING SHINE HAIR OIL

I have almost too much fun changing my hairstyles and color with each changing season, or sometimes even each mood. This lightweight, yummy-smelling and intensely repairing serum helps detangle, nourish, protect and smooth.

SALLY HANSEN’S MIRACLE GEL NAIL COLOR

I’m a very hands-on designer, which usually results in my nails being covered in some type of wood stain or paint. Consequently, my nails stay short, and I need a color that will last through lots of rough wear and tear. Due to my schedule, the color also must dry fast. My go-to for a little pop of fancy when it’s dress-up time is always Sally Hansen’s Miracle Gel Nail Color. It checks all the boxes and gets the job done.

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FOUR GREAT BEAUTY BUYS for under $20 BY LAUREN RILEY

You already know that makeup is my favorite topic — and makeup can be very expensive. Many beauty products bust the budget, but is it possible to find amazing cosmetics for under $20? I am up for the challenge, so let’s begin.

PRODUCT 1: KYLIE COSMETICS LIP GLOSS

Glossy lips are coming back full force. My favorite clear gloss is by Kylie Cosmetics. The high gloss crystal lip gloss is $16 on ulta.com, and a little bit goes a long way. Put it on top of a matte lip shade, or even wear it by itself. My favorite way to wear it is by putting a nude lip liner on first, then the gloss on top.

PRODUCT 2: MORPHE EYESHADOW PALETTE

Of all my eyeshadow palettes, Morphe makes some of my favorites. They are so affordable, and the pigment and quality is outstanding. I love the shimmer shades, and the matte shades blend out so easily. One of the palettes I use the most at home is the 9T neutral territory artistry palette. It sells on ulta.com for only $12! Pair it with the Morphe eye shadow brushes, and you’ll be golden.

PRODUCT 3: PHYSICIANS FORMULA BUTTER BRONZER

This is my favorite — and it smells so good! This bronzer can be found on ulta.com or even at Target, and it’s only $12.99. In the wintertime, it’s essential for me to have bronzer. I love giving myself a warmer summer glow to accentuate all the shadow points on my face. The best part is it lasts forever, and you will love how smoothly it goes on.

PRODUCT 4: NYX MATTE SETTING SPRAY

Sometimes I hate paying for Urban Decay all-nighter setting spray, even though nothing tops it. Nyx has a matte setting spray that is comparable. It’s a small compact bottle that fits in any makeup bag, or even in your purse, for on-the-go use. This spray is vegan, long lasting and available at Ulta for just $8.50. There are many more great, inexpensive makeup finds that I would love to talk about, but I hope these four give you a good start to filling your makeup bag with amazing products at an affordable price.

Lauren Riley is a makeup artist and hairdresser on the Coast, specializing in on-location wedding and event makeup, blondes and hand-tied extensions. Contact her or learn more at www.laurenrileyhairmakeup.com or facebook.com/laurenrileyhairmakeup.

February 2022

Latisha Lewis Price

Independent Sales Director www.marykay.com/latishalewisprice or latishalewis30@gmail.com

228-617-0188

The Shoppes at Mary Mahoney’s 110 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi 228.818.3233 www.gcwmultimedia.com

ADVERTORIAL

Dress in Black 118.95

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THE RADISH LOFT

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Style

WHITE BY THE WEDDING COLLECTION

Cotton Dress Wrap Necklace

GRANT’S FOR HER

Necklace $125; Earrings $37.50 Bracelets $85-$98

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HERITAGE HOUSE GIFTS

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February 2022

GET YOUR LIPS

May is

Valentine’s Day READY

Call MARISA

STRINGER, Certified Nurse Practitioner

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A Gallery Gift Shop Celebrating the Creative Spirit!

CLOTHES FOR COASTAL LIVING • FLAX • MARY FRANCES • FRENCH KANDE VISIT OUR NEW LOCATION ON MAIN STREET (next door to Serious Bread)

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Monday - Friday 10 - 5 and Saturday 10 - 4 84

February 2022

Kick the winter blues Caregivers:

Here's what you need to stop saying

Green:

Must-have fashion color

KING WOMEN MEET THE COAST'S HARDEST-WOR

ALL 12 ISSUES FOR ONLY $18 (REG. $31)

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weddings From classics to bold looks, here is a preview of the must-have ring trends from Pav & Broome.

Put a ring on it! RING ENHANCERS

Ring enhancers, also called diamond inserts by some designers.

Rich gold and French pave' diamonds come together to showcase your engagement ring when you add this stunning ring jacket.

This floral-inspired 14K White and Rose Gold Diamond Ring Enhancer features French pave diamond encrusted branches with sparkling marquise diamond buds.

HIDDEN HALOS The hidden halo on this 14-karat yellow gold ring excites both the lover of the halo and the solitaire.

EMERALD CUT HALO A striking center stone is the focal point as the detailed halo and graceful diamond band accentuate the center stone.

Photos provided by Pav & Broome Fine Jewelry. Visit pavandbroome.com for these styles and more.

February 2022

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Best Small Business Nominee 2021

Planning a wedding, party, or shower?

Let’s chat about your event! Visit our site below to get started.

Tenesha D. Batiste, Chief Experience Officer

tenesha.batiste@gmail.com | (228) 238-8307 4341 Gautier Vancleave Road | Suite 8 | Gautier, MS 39553 WWW.TENESHAANDCOMPANY.COM Photographer’s Credit: TD, Amore Photography, and Heritage Photography

Love & Great Food ARE ON THE MENU

at the Coast’s Most Elegant Address.

Award-Winning Local Cuisine

For special dinners to receptions – there’s only one choice.

228.207.0885 ◆ www.biloxiwhitepillars.com

February 2022

the planning

the dress

Collection and Couture Gowns Bridal Accessories Bridesmaid and Mothers’ Gowns

A FULL SERVICE BRIDAL EXPERIENCE Offering everything from the Planning to the Dress

Full Service Planning Month of Coordination Wedding and Event Styling the bridal suite

www.whitebytwc.com We are so excited to introduce WHITE by The Wedding Collection, a boutique curated for all things you will ever need while being a bride or while celebrating your favorite bride! We have expanded and created WHITE so that we can provide brides and many more with the perfect white attire for any special occasion or event. We established WHITE to help our brides take the stress away of trying to find adorable white attire year around. We carry an array of fun earrings, bags, luxury gift items, personalized bride and bridesmaid items, clothes, and more! Come see us at WHITE by The Wedding Collection, we cannot wait to fill your closet with all things white!!

Harbor House, a beachfront historic property, makes the perfect backdrop for Brides getting ready for The Big Day. This beauty accommodates up to 14 guests and has the most amazing views!

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health

FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL

heart month

Women, take charge of your heart health BY CHRISTIN LEBOEUF

Do you know a woman with cardiovascular disease? Chances are you do. Cardiovascular disease is the number-one killer of women. It claims more female lives than all forms of cancer combined. Losing one woman to cardiovascular disease is one too many. Women experience unique stages through their lives that affect both overall health and cardiovascular health. Unique risk factors specific to women are: • Pregnancy: Pregnancy can lead to cardiovascular conditions (including peripartum cardiomyopathy, stroke and heart attack), as well as adverse pregnancy outcomes (gestational hypertension, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes) that can increase a woman’s risk for CVD later in life. Therefore, it’s vital that women are healthy before, during and after pregnancy, both for themselves and their babies. • Menopause: While menopause does not cause cardiovascular disease, a woman’s risk is higher after menopause, making it vital for women to take charge of their health in the years leading up to and during menopause. Women, especially Black and Hispanic women, are disproportionally impacted by heart disease and stroke, and research shows heart attacks are on the rise in younger women. Yet younger generations of women, Gen Z and millennials, are less likely to be aware of their greatest health threat — including knowing the warning signs of heart attacks and strokes. That’s why it’s important for all women to take charge of their heart health and encourage others to do the same. Here are a few things you can do to take control of your heart health and reduce your risks: • Awareness is critical: All women need to know that cardiovascular disease is the top killer of women. • “Know Your Numbers”: The key personal health numbers that help determine risk for heart disease are total cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index. • Know your family history, and talk to your doctor about heart disease and stroke. • Take charge of your health to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease with tools and resources

February 2022

from Go Red for Women on physical activity, healthy eating, controlling blood pressure and managing sleep and stress. February 4 is National Wear Red Day, a day designated to raise awareness of the particular challenges faced by women in reducing cardiovascular disease and stroke risks. February is also National Heart Month. There’s no better time than right now to “reclaim your rhythm” and take control of your heart health. To get more information, be sure to visit https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/. Christin LeBoeuf is executive director of the American Heart Association. Reach her at (228) 604-5307 or christin. leboeuf@heart.org.

Does the South Mississippi weather have your

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MONDAY - THURSDAY 8:00AM - 11:30AM & 12:30PM - 4:30PM Mark Murray, MD

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THE TRUSTED CHOICE //

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February 2022

MEMORIAL WOMAN’S CLINIC > ½ÃÊ VÊ* GYNECOLOGY & OBSTETRICS FOR WOMEN ON THE COAST

>Ê6 V Ê, L Ì VÊ-ÕÀ}iÀÞ Enhance your quality of life with `Û> Vi`Ê6>} > Ê-ÕÀ}iÀÞÊ Ê ÞÃÌiÀ ÃV «Þ À > Ê> `Ê } Ê, Ã Ê"LÃÌiÌÀ VÃ >«>À ÃV « VÊ ÃÃ ÃÌi`Ê ÞÃÌiÀiVÌ Þ Revolutionary Non-Invasive ` iÌÀ > Ê L >Ì Ê Ê Laser Treatments 4-D Ultrasound COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION iÊ i Ã ÌÞÊ/iÃÌ }

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>Ê °Ê/ÀÕÃ]Ê ° °ÊUÊ i ÌThomas Ê °Ê `vi Ü]Ê ° °ÊUÊÊ> À>Ê > >]Ê ° °ÊUÊ Ã >Ê W. Lehman, M.D. • John F. Pappas, M.D.

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DEBORAH MEZA, LMT 187, Laser, Skin Care and Massage Department 228-341-7879 OB/GYN CLINIC, 4577 13th Street, GULFPORT: 228-864-2752 OB/GYN CLINIC, 2781 C.T. Switzer Drive, Suite # 306, BILOXI: 228-822-6368 THOMAS W. LEHMAN, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. • JOHN F. PAPPAS, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. JOANNA M. TRUS, M.D. F.A.C.O.G. • ALISHA H. WARE, M.D. F.A.C.O.G.

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WANT TO STAY HEALTHY?

WASH YOUR HANDS

The Covid-19 pandemic has re-enforced the importance of public health measures. One of the most valuable measures — and easiest to do — is handwashing. Handwashing reduces the risk of many illnesses, including respiratory and diarrheal diseases. It prevents the spread of germs to ourselves and the people around us.

THE STEPS FOR WASHING HANDS, ACCORDING TO THE CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL, INCLUDE: 1. Wetting your hands with water 2. Lathering with soap 3. Scrubbing for 20 seconds (about the amount of time it takes to hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice.) 4. Rinsing your hands under clean, running water 5. Drying off with a towel or letting hands air dry

Using hand sanitizers is another effective means of hand hygiene. In cases where there is visible dirt or grease, it is better to wash hands with soap and water than to use hand sanitizers. More frequent handwashing can have a downside, as skin can become dry and prone to infection. To prevent this problem, moisturizing after handwashing is necessary. Handwashing is a proven way to prevent the spread of illnesses in our society. With the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and other diseases, it is important for us to incorporate handwashing into our daily lives. Dr. Sidra Khalid is a physician with Memorial Physician Clinics specializing in hematology, oncology and internal medicine. Reach her at (228) 575-1234.

February 2022

BY DR. SIDRA KHALID

WHEN SHOULD YOU WASH? According to the Centers for Disease Control, you should wash your hands: • After using the bathroom • Before, during and after food preparation • Before eating food • Before or after caring for someone at home who is sick, particularly with vomiting or diarrhea • After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet • After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing • After touching an animal, animal feed or animal waste • After handling pet food or pet treats • After touching garbage HAND SANITIZER DOS AND DON’TS Hand sanitizers are a valuable tool in combating germs. Here’s how to get their maximum benefit, per the CDC: • DO make sure your sanitizer contains at least 60 percent alcohol. • DO make sure to supervise young children while using sanitizer to ensure they do not use it improperly. • DO rub your hands together after applying until they feel dry (this should take about 20 seconds). • DON’T rinse or wipe off the sanitizer before it is dry, or it won’t work as well. • DON’T use sanitizer if your hands are visibly dirty or greasy — for instance, after gardening, fishing or camping. If you can, wash your hands with soap and water instead.

Center for OB/GYN Dr. Watts is Board Certified and a Diplomat of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Watts performs in all general areas of OB/GYN, including but not limited to: • Normal & High risk prenatal care. • Vaginal and Cesarean deliveries. • Open and laparoscopic hysterectomies. • Minimally invasive procedures. • General Gynecology • Birth Control

Aimee R. Watts, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. MAIN OFFICE OCEAN SPRINGS

(228) 818-0025

2113 Government St., Suite I-4

BILOXI OFFICE

(228) 374-3749

147 Reynoir St., Suite 102

Scan this QR Code to be taken straight to our Facebook Page

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What would you do to

PROTECT THEM? OFFERING VACCINES FOR FIVE YEARS OLD AND UP All clinic locations offering vaccines for adults and pediatric vaccines are available at BILOXI, GULFPORT, BAY ST. LOUIS, AND VANCLEAVE TO REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT,

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*BILOXI-PEDIATRIC - 735 Division St. LEAKESVILLE - 951 Main St 769-303-1853 | PASS CHRISTIAN - 257 Davis Ave. *VANCLEAVE - 10828 Hwy 57N *Pediatric Services Available

For the convenience of our patients, Coastal Family Health Center provides direct insurance billing with private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP. Sliding fee discounts are based on the size of the family and household income. Reduced pricing on pharmaceuticals is available. Coastal strives to provide quality, comprehensive patient-centered care regardless of one’s economic status. February 2022 94

February 2022

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Plan for a better you in 2022 BY ARIEL CHAMBERLAIN

I normally approach the new year with resolutions, but by March, they’ve gone out the window. We all begin with the best intentions of being better than last year, but we fall short because we are not consistent. So, my resolution this year is to throw unrealistic expectations away. Instead, right now, I'm focusing on simple things I can do to improve myself and my relationships. Here is my plan:

PRACTICE SELF-CARE

There are always excuses for why

February 2022

we don’t pour into ourselves as much as we should. However, this year, I will be dedicating more time to my self-care. This includes squeezing in a workout at least twice a week, taking daily supplements and making smarter decisions concerning food. These easy things can make a world of difference.

GET BETTER REST

I am the worst when it comes to resting. I normally am a night owl, as this is usually the time that I get the most things done. A regular sleep schedule can help you reach your fullest potential each day. Therefore, making adjustments and getting to bed earlier will be top priority.

BUILD STRONGER RELATIONSHIPS

One thing the pandemic has taught me is how precious time is. I’ve decided to prioritize reaching out to those I love

no matter how busy I may be. Giving everyone their flowers now while they are here to enjoy them.

BE GRATEFUL

Instead of focusing on things that I don’t have, I am making an effort to be more appreciative of the things that I have rather than focusing on chasing happiness. Until you’re able to appreciate everything, you won’t appreciate anything. What intentions are you setting for yourself? Keep them simple for a better you in 2022.

Ariel Chamberlain is mom and lifestyle blogger based on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Connect with her via Instagram (@thelemonsoflife1, her blog (www. thelemonsoflife.com) or by email at arielc@thelemonsoflife.com.

Introducing DR. CHARLES

CAPLIS YOUR #FOOTHEALTH EXPERT

Foot Care, Medicine & Surgery KEEP YOUR HEALTH RESOLUTIONS IN 2022 WITH MORE FOCUS ON YOUR FOOT HEALTH. Dr. Caplis is board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Medicine (ABPM) and is an associate of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He is a foot and ankle specialist who treats patients for everything from routine diabetic foot care to sportsrelated injuries, bunions, heel pain and much more. Dr. Caplis has been in private practice for 14 years after completing his medical degree. He then successfully completed a 3-year foot / ankle podiatric surgical residency in 2008 in Chicago, Illinois, where he was later in private practice downtown on Michigan Avenue. During this time, he has built long-lasting and trusting relationships with his patients. Dr. Caplis is grateful for the opportunity and privilege to serve the patients of the former owner, Dr. Ricky Roach.

Anytime you have lasting foot, ankle or toe pain, it is critical to seek a professional assessment and treatment. Left undiagnosed, certain underlying conditions that cause foot pain can lead to serious health problems like infection or structural injury. Dr. Charles Caplis and his team at Foot Specialists of South Mississippi, promise their patients will receive the most effective medical treatment, valuable education and prevention techniques – customized to their individual needs. Contact us and let us provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

R EQ U EST YO U R CO N S U LTAT I O N TO DAY (228) 818-2801 | www.msfootspecialists.com | 999 N. Halstead Road, Ocean Springs www.gcwmultimedia.com

OSTEOPOROSIS “Give me a break”

Have you ever wondered why grandma keeps getting shorter? The answer is a bit scary. Osteoporosis is causing her backbones to break, collapsing them to lower her height. Everyone over 50 suffers from BY DR. PHILIP demineralization of their bones. L. LEVIN Usually, we don’t find out how bad it’s gotten until it’s too late and we fracture our hip or back. Throughout our lives, our bodies constantly absorb and replace bone cells. With osteoporosis, new bone creation doesn’t keep up, weaking our bones. There are many factors in how this balance is maintained. In women, estrogens significantly affect the rate of bone loss, so after menopause, osteoporosis accelerates. Family history, body size and ethnicity also are factors, with bone loss greater in thin descendants of Caucasian and Asian ancestry. Regular exercise strengths bone. The National Health Service recommends that adults ages 19 to 64 engage in at least two-and-a-half hours a week of moderateintensity aerobic activity, such as cycling or fast walking. Weight-bearing and resistance exercises are particularly important for improving bone density and helping to prevent osteoporosis. Keeping your bones healthy depends on a healthy diet. Bone uptake requires calcium and vitamin D. Dairy products provide plenty of calcium, but those avoiding dairy can meet their needs with sardines, fortified orange juice, greens and beans. Vitamin D can be obtained from exposure to sunshine or certain foods like fish, eggs and fortified milk. Fluoride supplementation helps teeth, hips, and backbones but may weaken wrist bones. While some sources recommend liver as a source of vitamin D, nutritionists warn that the high content of vitamin A in liver can dissolve bones. Similarly, red meat proteins contain high amounts of sulfur amino acids, which cause the body to dissolve calcium. Other foods that come with warnings include salt, because its sodium competes with calcium for absorption; excess caffeine, which also interferes with calcium absorption; and alcohol and smoking, both of which cause demineralization. The most common test for osteoporosis is the bone mineral density, or BMD. There are simple fingertip tests for this, or more accurate radiographic exams. A dualenergy x-ray absorptiometry scan, known as DXA or

February 2022

DEXA, gives a T-score useful for predicting the risk of fractures. Medications can slow or even reverse osteoporosis. The most prescribed are the bisphosphonates, such as Fosamax. Some of these are available as weekly or monthly pills while Reclast requires an annual IV infusion. Other drugs include Evista, which mimics estrogen’s beneficial effects on bone density in postmenopausal women. There also are several medications available that speed up bone regrowth. The main keys to keeping your bones healthy are exercise, nutrition and avoiding cigarettes and alcohol. This is a common and important issue because after age 50, half of all women and a quarter of all men will break a bone due to low bone density. Everyone should have their bone density checked, and if it’s low, start treatment to prevent fractures. Dr. Philip L. Levin is a retired emergency medicine specialist in Gulfport. Learn more or contact him at www.Doctors-Dreams.com.

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easy steps to turbocharge your February

BY KAROL BRANDT

The past two years have been tough for everyone, and yes, it’s time to put it behind us and chase our goals. Here are some ideas to help improve your life in 2022: 1. MOVE: TAKE A 30-MINUTE WALK DURING YOUR LUNCH BREAK THREE TIMES PER WEEK TO ADD MORE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY TO YOUR DAY.

If your goal is to improve your physical health and reduce stress, stepping away from your desk to get some fresh air and sunlight is a good place to start. Walking during your lunch break can help you lose weight when coupled with other healthy habits, give your mind a refreshing break and allow you to return to work feeling better prepared to conquer the second half of your day.

2. DE-CLUTTER-YOUR SPACE: PURGE ONE ROOM EACH MONTH UNTIL YOU’VE FINISHED THE ENTIRE HOUSE TO CREATE A MORE ORGANIZED ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH TO LIVE AND WORK. Don’t necessarily stop there. Discard the things you don’t need or use anymore, and organize the things that you do need. Once you declutter your living space, you will feel a weight lift off your shoulders. Also, you will spend less time looking for things. Sell, donate or throw away your unwanted items.

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3. MAKE VEGETABLES HALF OF YOUR DINNER: THIS WILL IMPROVE YOUR LONGTERM PHYSICAL HEALTH AND REDUCE YOUR RISK OF DEVELOPING A CHRONIC DISEASE.

This is a very specific goal that can help overhaul your physical health. Start replacing some of the junk food you tend to eat for dinner (mashed potatoes, fried chicken or macaroni and cheese) with whole foods your body can use for clean energy. This goal can easily be turned into a habit that will benefit you greatly for the rest of your life.

4. MEDITATE: DEVOTE 10 MINUTES PER DAY TO MINDFULNESS TO IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

Meditation has many health benefits, from fortifying your immune system to increasing your focus. Learn how to observe your thoughts without passing judgment on them. This will help reduce your anxiety and increase your resilience against stress.

5. WRITE: KEEP A GRATITUDE JOURNAL TO GIVE YOURSELF A TANGIBLE REMINDER OF THE GOOD THINGS IN YOUR LIFE.

It’s time to reflect on what you’re thankful for. Keeping a gratitude journal will help you live a happier life and feel more content with your circumstances. Your journal entries don’t need to be long, just bullet lists of what you’re especially thankful for in the moment. Maintaining this habit will improve your mental health and outlook for the future.

6. START MEAL PLANNING AND PREPPING: THIS ONE IS HUGE! Meal prepping and planning can help you in the organizational realm of your life, not to mention improve your health. Plan meals ahead of time each week to save time after work and eliminate the dreaded question, “What’s for dinner?” Meal planning can make a big difference in sticking to a healthy diet and freeing up your schedule.

7. CREATE A WORK/LIFE BALANCE: TAKE TIME FOR YOUR SPOUSE, PARTNER OR OTHER LOVED ONES EACH DAY. Whether you meet for a quick lunch or sit down and talk at the end of the night, connecting with your partner or other important people in your life is so important to maintaining strong relationships, staying involved in each other’s lives and overcoming challenges. Successful relationships require continuous effort, so invest the time to nourish yours every day in some way. Personal growth doesn’t happen in one, big surge of effort. It happens gradually over time by keeping up with your realistic goals and making small, yet effective‚ changes. Go after your goals, and get ready for a great rest of 2022! Karol Brandt is an executive host with Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, as well as co-author of the Amazon best-seller “The Struggle is Real: Finally Break the Dieting Cycle, Transform Your Mind and Body, and Evolve into The Person You Have Always Wanted to Be” and the “30-Day Evolve Challenge Journal.” Contact Brandt by email at karol.brandt@ scarletpearlcasino.com, Facebook/ The Struggle Is Real or Instagram at karolbrandtnola.

2022

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MY TRANSFORMATION STORY:

Cassie Archebelle

BEFORE MY TRANSFORMATION

I’ve struggled with my weight my entire life. It wasn’t until January 2015 that I got the wakeup call I needed. A few weeks after having my middle son, my 5-yearold son was lying on my lap, watching TV, and asked, “Mommy, is there another baby in your belly?” I told him, “No. Mommy already had your baby brother, remember?” I’ll never forget his reply: “Then why is your belly so big still?” That was the exact moment my life changed. I wanted to be better for my children. I wanted to be a healthy and active parent, and I was going to do whatever it took to be that person.

MY GOAL

At that time, I was 240 pounds. My first goal was just to get moving and eating better. I focused on 10 percent goals (example - first goal: lose 24 pounds). My ultimate goal was to reach 150 pounds.

and allowed me to connect with people who were facing the same struggles.

HOW IT WORKED

I found a passion for working out that I never knew I would have! It became a form of therapy and provided the “me time” I desperately needed as a very busy, working mom. But I was still struggling with the diet part, so I started ordering weekly meal prep. The weight started literally falling off once I got my diet right. By November of the same year, I had reached my goal and dropped an additional 10 pounds. I was at 140 pounds and in the best shape of my life!!

THE HARDEST PART

The most difficult part for me was being around my husband and kids, who can eat whatever they want and not gain a pound. My husband was very supportive, though. We cut back on going out to eat and on the junk food in our house. Those two steps helped me tremendously.

HOW HAVE YOU MAINTAINED YOUR TRANSFORMATION?

Losing weight is hard; keeping the weight off is even harder. I continue to work out multiple days a week and order meal prep about two times per month. It also helps having such a supportive community behind me! I have more than 500 past and current meal prep clients that help hold me accountable in my private Facebook group.

WHAT I DID

I joined an eight-week new year’s weight loss challenge, then joined bootcamps and started personal training. I also started ordering weekly meal prep. I also was very active in sharing my weight loss journey on Facebook. It helped hold me accountable

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HOW I FEEL ABOUT MYSELF TODAY

I feel energized, confident and overall happy. When I was overweight, I was miserable to be around and always negative because I was unhappy with myself. I love the person I am now. I’m also a better mom, too. I coach my boys in soccer. I can play outside

with them any time without being winded and exhausted. They are my biggest blessings, and I’m so thankful I can be an active #boymom!

MY ADVICE TO OTHERS

Find what works for you and run with it. If it’s meal prep, macro counting, keto, paleo, calorie counting …whatever it is, just stick with it. I always tell people it took time to gain weight, and it’s going to take longer to lose it. However, the result is worth it. If you fall off track, it’s OK. Just get back on track with your next meal. Don’t wait for the next day, the next Monday or the next month. The longer you wait, the harder it is to start again.

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