Gulf Coast Woman January-February 2019

OMAN GULF COAST

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2019

COMPLIMENTARY

A

ROYAL

Ditchthe

REVUE

Celebrating the Queens of Carnival

resolutions

What to wear? Yellow

Make new decisions

YOUR BEST YOU! Tireless transformer

Jocelyn Gavin-Lane regroup, re-energize

Sponsored by

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

BOARD CERTIFIED OB/GYN Diplomate of the American Board of OB/GYN

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Treatment of Women’s Health Concerns with an emphasis on preventative care and wellness Cindy Barfield, FNP-BC Board Certified Nurse Practitioner

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Celebrating

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Nursing Management

• Private Duty Nursing

• Elderly and Disabled Waiver Provider

• Pediatric Nursing

• EPSDT Provider

• Skilled Nursing Care

• In-Facility Care

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• VA Respite Provider

• Homemakers

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Call: 228.875.3343 Email: SmileTeam@SmileGulfCoast.com Visit: HybridgeGulfCoast.com

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CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brian Pearse Brandi Stage Christy Ryan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Farrah Underwood Cheryl Fishman

FOUNDER Angela Bruni

ADVERTISE

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dorothy P. Wilson

(228) 539-2422 or Angela Bruni, (228) 760-8887 Veronica Ratcliff, (228) 861-6503 Sherry Moxley Seaman, (706) 833-0123

DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Crystal Scretching CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER

CONTACT US

Jennifer Gentile CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Joanna Allen Dr. Stephanie Barnes Brenda Blount Chris Dearman Jocelyn Gavin-Lane Rebeca Gonzalez Barker Joe Barker Ryan Giles Brendan Jones Robin Killeen Denise Keyser Holly Lemoine-Raymond Dr. Philip L. Levin

Jackie Merlau Hall Tanya Marie Lewis Deborah Meza Andi Oustalet Dr. Stanford Owen Tina Perkins Sheila Rivers Kathy Rogers Jerika Vincent Andrea Yeager Angelyn Treutel Zeringue Kathy Brown van Zutphen

3451 Washington Ave., Suite B, Gulfport, MS 39507 (228) 539-2422 CustomerService@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com Š 2019 Gulf Coast Woman is published 8 times per year and is available free of charge. We encourage your comments, suggestions and submissions, however, we reserve the right to refuse or edit them. Gulf Coast Woman is not responsible for 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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A Change WORTH MAKING

South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss helps couple shed weight, gain quality of life

After struggling with her weight most of her life, Melinda Parnell decided on her 26th birthday — in June of 2017 — that “enough was enough.”

“I knew if I didn’t do something to get on top of this issue, I wouldn’t live to see 50, and if I did, I’d be on tons of medications for obesity-related illnesses like diabetes, high blood pressure and God only knows what else,” says the teacher and school bus driver. Despite putting in hours at the gym and constant dieting, Melinda adds, she “was never able to find success.” The resulting unhappiness affected every aspect of her life.

Her husband, Michael, waged the same battle with weight — and reached the same conclusion. Together, they turned to South Mississippi Weight Loss to begin their transformation.

“My experience of having worked with both surgeons professionally for many years gave me confidence in their abilities,” says Michael, who has a healthcare background and continues to work in the field. “I had seen the help that they provided for many other patients overthe years, so I knew this was the place to go for help.”

The couple opted for gastric sleeve surgery, and despite initial nervousness, Melinda says she couldn’t be happier with the results. To date, she’s down 147 pounds total — over half of her heaviest weight — and 131 pounds since surgery. Michael has lost 195 pounds — 173 since surgery.

Given their outcome, the Parnells have recommended South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss Center several times since their procedure. Founded by South Mississippi Surgeons in 2000, the Center offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary program administered by a highly trained and dedicated staff. Team members guide patients through the various steps involved in achieving their ideal weight.

“Everyone at South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss has been helpful and friendly,” Melinda says. “They treat us like family. Everyone knows us by name, and when we’ve gone back for follow-up appointments, they all are genuinely excited to see our progress and make a point to tell us how well we’re doing!”

Far from being an “easy way out” or a “quick fix,” Melinda says surgical weight loss requires a long-term commitment to a healthy lifestyle. She and Michael follow a low-carb, high-protein diet and workout regimen to stay fit. They find themselves being more outgoing and adventurous — taking up kayaking and other activities that weren’t possible before.

“It’s truly an entire life change,” Melinda says, “but a change that’s more making!”

January-February 2019 10than worth

To learn more about South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss Center, its team and services, visit www.smsurgicalweightloss.com

The staff at South Mississippi Surgical Weight Loss Center DR. WILLIAM AVARA, III

DR. JASON PAYNE

1124 Oakleigh Road, Ocean Springs 228.872.7277

302 Union St.

$275,000

549 St. John St.

Bay St. Louis | MLS #337584

Bay St. Louis | MLS #341089

This charming New Construction located in Old Town BSL. 3bed /2ba split floorplan includes a Bonus Dining Room and Separate Living Area, Interior Laundry & Covered Parking.

Spacious open concept living new construction with loads of kitchen countertop space, walk in closets, interior laundry, tankless water heater, double driveway & front and back porches.

$225,000

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,494 SF

3 BD | 2 BA | 1,552 SF

503 B Sunset Dr.

503 C Sunset Dr.

Bay St. Louis | MLS #335159

Bay St. Louis | MLS #341363

$145,000

This 2 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom townhome is just a short golf cart ride to downtown Bay St Louis and entertainment of the MS Gulf Coast.

Beautiful updated 2 bedroom/ 1.5 bathroom townhome located near downtown Bay St. Louis.

Townhome B & C (MLS 341363) can be purchased together for $285,000.

$145,000

2 BD | 2 BA | 1,354 SF

2 BD | 2 BA | 1,519 SF

122 Forest St.

$280,000

212 S. Seashore Ave.

Pass Christian | MLS #340114

Long Beach | MLS #340037

This home is located on Fairway 12 of Pass Christian Isles Golf Course.

Granite countertops, custom cabinets, solid interior doors, ceramic tile flooring & a screened in porch!

You can see the beach from your porch!

As you enter into this 3 bedroom 2 bath home you feel you are home! Huge backyard for entertaining. +/-1,800 sq ft 2 story heated & cooled garage.

$349,000

4 BD | 2 BA | 2,284 SF

3 BD | 2 BA | 2,208 SF

502 John Baptiste St.

$233,000

505 Main St.

Bay St. Louis | MLS #338482

Bay St. Louis | MLS #331886

This Bay St. Louis adorable cottage is waiting for you!

Newly renovated 2 bedroom, 2 bath 1950’s bungalow is nestled on a large lot (9,574 sq ft) on the desirable Main St.

3 BD | 2 BA | 2,246 SF

$189,900

609 Highland Dr.

116 Red Hill Church Rd.

Bay St. Louis | MLS #339487

$169,000

Lumberton | MLS #330685

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!!

If you are looking for a home in an established neighborhood this is it.

Located close to schools, shopping and entertainment.

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$129,900

3 BD | 2 BA | 2,257 SF

COMMERCIAL

2 BD | 2 BA | 1,524 SF

609 Highway 90

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$165,000

2 BD | 2 BA | 948 SF

Waveland | MLS #338039

Waveland | MLS #339104

Have you always dreamed of owning a bar of your own? If you have then your dream can now be a realty!

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Tons of possibilities with this location in Waveland.

$149,000

2,652 SF

1,200 SF

COMMERCIAL

Check out our TV series Inside Out with HL Raymond Properties!

For more details go to hlraymondproperties.com HOLLY LEMOINE-RAYMOND, BROKER/OWNER

HL Raymond Properties | 529 Ulman Avenue | Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520 P: (228) 466-6643 | F: (228) 466-6536 | hlraymondproperties@gmail.com | www.hlraymondproperties.com

index

Mardi Gras / 33

Home / 123

Heathier you / 49

Faith /135

Shopping & Beauty / 89

Family /137

Success / 109

Food & Entertainment /137

Money / 118

Coast Cares /144

BEHIND THE COVER SHOOT

OMAN GULF COAST

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2019

COMPLIMENTARY

A

ROYAL

Ditchthe

REVUE

Celebrating the Queens of Carnival

resolutions

What to wear? Yellow

Make new decisions

YOUR BEST YOU! Tireless transformer

Jocelyn Gavin-Lane regroup, re-energize

Sponsored by

Photography: Brandi Stage, Brandi Stage Portraiture Makeup: Jackie Merlau Hall Hair: Julia Green LaBella’s Salon Jacket, Blouse and Jewelry by Panache Skirt by Nadine Hancock Dorcas Couture

Cover subject Jocelyn Gavin-Lane

12

January-February 2019

opening doors for you

GOLF COURSE VIEWS AND WALK TO BEACH

10 Mockingbird Ln., Gulfport | $379,500 | MLS# 340221

Owen & Co.

JUST PERFECTION

977 Emily Dr., Biloxi | $1,179,500 | MLS# 329576

2 ACRE WATERFRONT ON THE BAY

302 La Salle Ct., Ocean Springs | $1,275,000 | MLS# 324182

BEACH FRONT CONDO - TOP UNIT

2060 Beach Blvd., #1605, Biloxi | $365,900 | MLS# 341000

MULTI-USE OVERLOOKING BENARD BAYOU 0 Cowan Rd., Gulfport | $975,000 | MLS# 334273

O W EN & CO., L LC R E A L E S TAT E

2208 18th St., Ste B, Gulfport, MS 39501 | Office: 228-822-9870 | Cell: 228-760-2815 owensherryl@aol.com | www.owenandco.com | owenandcorealestate

Get Fit & & Have Fun mgccc ad ESTUARINE AT MGCCC’S EDUCATION CENTER The Estuarine Education Center is a 40-acre recreational facility with indoor, outdoor and water activities/rentals available.

VISIT MGCCC.EDU/EEC for a complete list of activities.

14

January-February 2019

MGCCC’s Estuarine Education Center offers options to traditional workout The Estuarine Education Center (EEC) at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Jackson County Campus is located on 40 acres of wooded and wetland areas on Mary Walker Bayou. With more than two miles of nature trails; indoor and outdoor rock climbing walls; a ropes course; and facilities for kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding, the facility offers amazing recreational opportunities in a beautiful, natural setting.

mgccc ad Melissa Jarosinski and Bre Lambert on the climbing wall at MGCCC’s Estuarine Education Center in Gautier.

Melissa Jarosinski, coordinator at the EEC, said that while fun is the main focus at the center, the activities offered also provide excellent alternatives to a traditional workout. “People don’t always recognize it, but walking or running local trails, climbing on rock walls, kayaking, canoeing and paddle boarding provide an excellent workout while allowing you to have fun,” she said. “Kayaking, for instance, works your core, shoulders and arms, and even your legs depending on the type of kayak you are using. Rock climbing provides a great all-over workout. Your fingers and toes even get an excellent workout with climbing! And the best thing about being outside and in nature is that it is a natural stress reliever.”

Melissa belays climbers on the rock walls at the center and teaches classes in rock climbing, ropes course high and low elements, kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing.

“Outdoor pursuits like the ones we offer at the EEC can certainly keep you motivated toward staying healthy,” she said. “The activities offered here are not only good for you, they are fun to do.”

Student worker Bre Lambert has worked at the EEC for several months. A pre-medical major, Bre said she enjoys her job working at the EEC because it provides a scheduled time for her to participate in activities that keep her fit. “I hang out here other times than just with my job, but on those days that I’m super busy, I know I still have to come here to work and that I’ll get a lot of activity in while here.”

The Estuarine Education Center is located at MGCCC’s Jackson County Campus.

FOR YOUR HEALTH

She encourages all MGCCC students and employees to take advantage of the EEC, but also encourages the public to use it as well.

“This awesome, beautiful center is not just for us, it is open to the public,” she said. “There’s so much to do here, and with it being right on Mary Walker Bayou, it is just incredible.

Everyone needs to check out what it has to offer.”

For more information about the EEC, visit mgccc.edu/EEC. The site provides details about EEC hours of operation, activities available, rental and activity fees, and contact information.

BOWL GAMES

YES, he’s SUPER confused?

By Dorothy P. Wilson

We all know men can appear to be from Mars and women from Venus when it comes to understanding one another.

Throw a football into the mix, and watch a classic match of Mars vs. Venus thinking.

Let’s make a disclaimer before going any further: Some women love football and can keep up with all the plays — but many (we didn’t say most) are at a loss.

Let’s see what game day looks like on each of these planets.

GAME-DAY PREP Mars: This game is serious. The guys at work have been hyping about their team all week and I need bragging rights to shut them up. Just in case my team loses, I’ll keep the game party to one or two people who are rooting for my guys.

Venus: Wow, a football party at our house! We need to make sure we invite fans from both sides to make it fun!

GAME DAY FOOD Venus: I want to try some new recipes. My friend showed a pic on Facebook of roasted Brussels sprouts with garlic aioli. That’ll be January-February 2019 16

something different!

Mars: Where are the chicken wings?

Do we have pizza?

GAME ATTIRE Venus: Matching shirt, matching pants, matching lip color, matching head gear. Check! Sign in the yard, check!

Mars: My jersey, yes! Found it. It’s a little faded, and it didn’t get washed this week, but it’ll be fine. Honey, I can’t find my comfy black shorts!

GAME ACTION Venus: What just happened? Why is there a flag on the field?

Mars: @#!&*. Freaking unreal. How can they call that on us when they’ve been doing the same thing all night!

GAME ACTION, PART 2 Venus: I just put some more chips and dip out. Who’s winning?

Mars: (No response — except for a frown and a mean mug in her direction, meaning his team isn’t so don’t ask!)

GAME SOCIALIZING Venus: Veronica, did you know a new Christmas movie is coming on tonight on Hallmark?!!! Honey, can you flip to the Hallmark channel so we can see what time it’s coming on?

I wanna record it if the game’s still going.

Mars: (Thinking: For the love of God would she just leave the room and quit talking) Ok, I’ll get to it in a minute.

POST-GAME ACTION Mars: Hey, y’all wanna watch the Panthers or Green Bay next?

Venus: Oh, no, honey, we want to watch the Hallmark movie. It’s our turn; y’all have been watching football for hours.

Mars: It’s the playoffs! You can watch the recording.

Guests: (Thinking: Uh-oh, think it’s time for us to leave ….) Hey, we gotta head on home to get the kids ready for bed.

Eve Cooper is a salesperson for Allen Hyundai. She was born in Moss Point and grew up just outside the city of Atlanta. After the death of her mother, she moved back to Mississippi to connect with her family and to raise her children.

Eve got married at 18 and almost immediately started having children. She has two sets of twins. One set of girls and one set of boys. Shortly after having her first set of twins, she became a peer counselor for breastfeeding mothers. While counseling, she was asked to be a lactation consultant which she did for the state health department for 10 years. She loved working with mothers so she decided to go to school to become a doula/midwife. She did that for 2 years before being introduced to selling cars.

Eve had owned 2 Hyundai’s prior to coming to sell for Allen Hyundai and she loved her cars. Robert, a current salesperson for Allen Hyundai, reached out to her to come sell cars. Her response was “but I don’t know anything about cars.” Eve said, “Robert pointed out to me that I have owned 2 Hyundai’s and loved them and I love helping people, the rest can be taught.”

One of Eve’s favorite things about working in the car business is that she legitimately gets to help people and she loves building bonds with her customers. You can reach her at sipslemonade@allenhyundai.com if you are looking for a vehicle. When asked what does “sips lemonade” mean? Her response is that it’s her favorite drink and it’s also a reminder that when life gives you lemons, make lemonade…then take a deep breath and sip lemonade. It serves as a daily reminder that while it is hard raising 4 kids on her own, sometimes you just have to step back and breathe.

EMPOWERING

EVE COOPER Sales

WOMEN

IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY

624 E PASS RD, GULFPORT, MS 39507 | WWW.ALLENHYUNDAI.COM | (228) 539-5555 www.gcwmultimedia.com 17

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STEAKS & SEAFOOD

BRUNCH

Bottomless M IM OSAS A N D BELLINIS

EVERY SUNDAY 10AM-3PM 228-275-3032 888-752-9772 • ScarletPearlCasino.com • 9380 Central Avenue • D’Iberville, MS 39540 Consuming undercooked meats, poultry or shellfish may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have a medical condition. Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort reserves all rights to cancel or modify any program at any time. Must be 21 or older. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.

18

January-February 2019

An Off-Broadway Dinner Show staged as a Festive Family Affair, Tony N’ Tina’s Wedding is a one of a kind Entertainment Experience.

February 15 • 8PM February 16 • 1PM & 8PM Tickets • $60 Per Person Purchase your tickets from Scarlet’s Treasures Gift Shop, via ScarletPearlCasino.com or by phone at 888-752-9772.

9380 Central Avenue • D’Iberville, MS 39540 • 888–752–9772 • ScarletPearlCasino.com • Must be 21 or older. Website transactions subject to a 2.9% + .30 convenience fee. Tax not included. Doors open 15 minutes prior. Ticket valid on date listed only. By purchasing a ticket, you consent to the use of your name or likeness, incidental to any display, transmission or reproduction of the event. No refunds or exchanges. Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort reserves all rights to cancel or modify any program at any time. See Pearl Rewards Club for promotional rules and details. Valid 2019 only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.

Garden Park Physician Group Experience makes all the difference.

“I became a doctor because as a young child, and throughout my life, I was always intrigued by the profession. I chose family medicine because of the variety of illnesses and patients I come in contact with. I have practiced medicine for almost 30 years, with 23 of those years dedicated to caring for people on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.”

Curtis Broussard, MD | General Medicine Garden Park Physician Group — Orange Grove 12330 Ashley Drive • Gulfport, MS • (228) 831-1572

Dedicated staff makes all the difference.

“I’ve always wanted to make Mississippi and our community a better place to live and do that through my work at Garden Park. One of the great things about the operating room staff is the experience and dedication. We work as a team. In the founding days, our name was Garden Park Community Hospital. It is still a community, which is a rare thing in today’s healthcare.”

Larry H. Killebrew, MD | General Surgeon Garden Park Specialty Group 15190 Community Road, Suite 250 • Gulfport, MS • (228) 539-0489

Overall well-being makes all the difference.

“I became a doctor to do my part in contributing to the well-being of patients, and I chose to be a surgeon to challenge myself to make a difference.”

Robert Brunston, MD | General Surgeon Garden Park Specialty Group 15190 Community Road, Suite 250 • Gulfport, MS • (228) 539-0489

Helping patients take control of their health makes all the difference.

“The aspect I enjoy the most about my practice is teaching patients to be in control of their own bodies and their own lives. For example, if I can teach someone with diabetes how to manage it themselves, and they turn their results into positive ones — that’s where I get my motivation.”

T. Benjamin Skelton, MD | Internal Medicine Garden Park Internal Medicine 15190 Community Road, Suite 220 • Gulfport, MS • (228) 575-7975

20 GPMC-61112 12/18

January-February 2019

MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE. Parents’ trust makes all the difference.

“It is an honor for families to entrust me with their child’s care and choose me as the person they call when they are scared. I am happy that they trust me to be able to offer support and reassurance as we go through the healing process.”

Tamara Harper, MD | Pediatrician The Pediatric Center 15190 Community Road, Suite 330 • Gulfport, MS • (228) 328-1401

Relating to kids makes all the difference.

“Children have really captured my heart. I think being a young provider is an advantage because I have ways in which I can relate to my patients and to new parents. I enjoy seeing the difference I can make in their lives.”

Heather Theisen, NP | Pediatric Nurse Practitioner The Pediatric Center 15190 Community Road, Suite 330 • Gulfport, MS • (228) 328-1401

Keeping kids healthy makes all the difference.

“As a pediatrician, I feel I make a difference in the entire family’s lives—not just the child, but in the parents and siblings, too. What excites me the most is that pediatrics is becoming more of a preventive care field, allowing pediatricians to spend more time keeping their patients well and providing guidance in areas of nutrition and safety.”

Erica Frank, MD | Pediatrician The Pediatric Center 15190 Community Road, Suite 330 • Gulfport, MS • (228) 328-1401

You have a choice in your healthcare provider. The right doctor can provide care, comfort and peace of mind, for you and your family. The right doctor can make all the difference.

Learn more about Garden Park Physician Group and what makes all the difference for our providers. We’re accepting new patients. Learn more, or schedule an appointment online, at GardenParkDoctors.com.

21

The Town’s Living Room

Mockingbird Café

Whitney, Alicein, and Laura, photo by Ann Madden

By Lisa Monti BSLShoofly.com

22

L

ooking for the heartbeat of the real Bay St. Louis? For 12 years, a family-friendly coffee shop/ restaurant/live music venue/ community center called the Mockingbird Café has served up great food, good times and wonderful memories.

A dozen years ago, the Mockingbird Café began as a bright, welcoming spot to meet for coffee and conversation in the midst of post-Katrina cleanup. Soon after opening in a historic building with a unique three-sided porch, the cafe became known as the community’s comfortable living room.

The coffee shop maintains its homey feel but has become so much more. It’s known as a go-to dining spot for breakfast, brunch and lunch (and later for special events). It’s also a favorite venue for live entertainment

January-February 2019

and revolving displays of art, as well as a destination to enjoy wine and craft cocktails along with camaraderie.

Owner Alicein W. Schwabacher, who founded the Mockingbird with her former husband, Martin Chambers, says the ‘Bird’s philosophy is simple: “We always try to be gracious hosts to the community.”

She and the dedicated Mockingbird team, led by longtime managers Laura Hurt and Whitney LaFrance, have succeeded in making everyone feel welcome, well fed and entertained.

Schwabacher says, “Our Mockingbird team gets it; we are all ambassadors of Bay St. Louis.” She adds that the Bird’s success also is due to her supportive partner, Rebekah, and her tireless work.

So it’s no surprise that fans range in age and interest. Students from nearby schools come in search of an afternoon treat.

Alicein, son Ronan, Rebekah and Martin, photo by Ann Madden

Runners and bike riders meet up post-workout for a cold beer and a bite. Families and friends file in for a lively weekend brunch gathering.

Special event nights also draw big crowds, which spill outside and onto sidewalks for Second Saturday and the seasonal Mr. Atticus Night Market, coordinated by Aryana Ivey, on the last Friday of the month.

The calendar includes game night, sponsored by the Bay St. Louis Library, and an open mic night for poets and musicians.

“We have music from all over the world,” Schwabacher says. “A group of Italian bluegrass singers are coming back again for the fifth year.”

To keep things fresh and interesting, the ‘Bird remains a work in progress. The hugely popular brunch service was added a couple of years ago and has been a runaway hit, thanks to a talented and creative kitchen crew led by Robin Hayes.

“Our customers love our pulled pork and grits,” Schwabacher says of a brunch favorite, along with chicken and waffles, homemade granola and eggs any way you choose.

Biscuits and jam are made in house every morning.

“We’ve got it down to a science,” the owner adds. “It’s so great.”

The signature mockingburger shines on the lunch menu, along with the summer garden burger, sandwiches, salads and the frittata of the bay.

Of course, coffees and teas are the bedrock of the ‘Bird, and they’re made fresh all day. The large blackboard menu lists cafe au lait, hot chocolate and chai latte among the

available hot beverages. Espresso comes in seven varieties, and cold choices include mango iced tea and mocha.

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Some recent refinements include an expansion behind the bar area to make the friendly service even more efficient. The ‘Bird also recently added libations — craft cocktails and wine — to its offerings.

Brunch options include a flight of mimosas, the classic strawberry and watermelon, and the appropriately named tequila mockingbird — plus dynamite bloody marys.

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A WILL FOR living

How one routine self-exam helped Tayonka Patton stop the rarest and most aggressive form of breast cancer.

Christie Fountain (Singing River)

For many families along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, June 28, 2018, was just another typical summer day.

For Pascagoula native Tayonka Thomas Patton, it would become the day she would never forget.

After performing a routine self breast exam, she detected a lump she had not noticed before.

Dr. Persing recommended gene testing to better understand her prognosis.

Tayonka agreed, and discovered she was positive for a genetic mutation that indicated a higher risk for breast cancer.

After reviewing options with Dr. Persing, Tayonka made the brave decision to undergo a double mastectomy to ensure the disease would never again impact her health–or her family.

Tayonka and her Singing River Health System Regional Cancer Center care team (l to r): Brynna Burnsed, PA; Tayonka Patton, Sundee Sprecher, Medical Oncology Unit Coordinator; and Dr. Brian Persing, Medical Oncologist.

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The findings were absolute. Tayonka was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. Dr. Bailey immediately referred Tayonka to Dr. Persing of Singing River Health System Regional Cancer Center for treatment.

“Early detection is key,” said Tayonka. “I was so fortunate to find it before it spread.”

“I have a will for living,” said Tayonka, “and Dr. Bailey and Dr. Persing spent so much time explaining every step that I knew exactly what to expect. I knew the game plan.”

Tayonka was thankful to receive care at Singing River Health System so she could stay home surrounded by those she loves.

“It’s been a journey,” said Tayonka, “but after surgery I will still be me. That’s what makes me even stronger and more confident in my decision.”

To learn more about Singing River Health System Regional Cancer Center, its physician team and treatment services, visit singingriverhealthsystem.com.

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MARDI GRAS 2019 SPECIAL SECTION

Making of a

Mardi Gras

Behind the scenes of the Gulf Coast’s glitziest soirees

By Andi Oustalet Mardi Gras is one of the most wonderful times on the Coast.

Thousands of revelers line parade routes and dress extravagantly for balls, but most of them likely don't completely understand what goes into the development and execution of Mardi Gras. Â I have been involved with Mardi Gras for more than 20 years in every capacity, from simply attending balls and parades to assisting my family when they were royalty for Gulf Coast Carnival Association. But in some circles, 20 years still make me a novice.

Mardi Gras has an amazing history. Mobile has the distinction of holding the first festival in 1703, the oldest in America.

New Orleans followed in 1718. The Gulf Coast Carnival Association will celebrate 111 years in 2019, making it the oldest on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. But there are many organizations that celebrate the fun every year, and both Gulfport and Biloxi have several krewes that are celebrating more than 90 years. Â But the question remains, how do these organizations put on the celebrations to honor these traditions? How can you become a member? How can you become royalty? Well, here are a few answers to those questions.

nate their time and talent. Their families and jobs must be 110 percent supportive because this kind of dedication is really unbelievable. I have witnessed it firsthand for many years through several organizations.

They must develop the theme for the year; work on the logistics of putting on a coronation ball for hundreds, if not thousands, of members and guests; work with a seamstress for months getting the beautiful costumes custom-made for each member of the royalty; coordinate a host hotel where in most cases the ball or other related functions are held; organize a parade, working with city officials and float designers; assist in the choosing of royalty for the year and several additional events that occur year

MANAGEMENT Over the years, events definitely have evolved to become more lavish and detailed. At the core of what happens is management. The captain, lieutenant captain, ball chairs or presidents of these krewes who have been elected by the boards ultimately are responsible for making Mardi Gras what it is today. And the planning begins for the next year the week after Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras day.

These extremely dedicated and unselfish individuals doKrewe of Nereids 2018, by Brenda Comer, BSLShoofly.com

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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round. That is just the beginning of what the captains, lieutenant captains, ball chairs and presidents do to ensure the fun for all of us. So if you run into one of these folks, be sure to thank them for their efforts because I can assure you, it is a massive undertaking.

THE THEME I am more familiar with Gulf Coast Carnival Association, so I am going to elaborate on how Mardi Gras happens for this organization.

First, a theme must be established for the year. This is no small feat, as this theme must be entertaining and exciting for all ages and many genres.

The most recent theme was The Ride of Your Life. There were eight sub-themes under it: Rollercoaster Rides, Apollo 13, Surfing the Baja, Paul Revere’s Historical Ride, The First Barrel Ride over Niagara Falls, The Ride of the Pharaohs, Evel Knievel and the First Riverboat Rides.

THE COSTUMES Costume designs follow with the very talented Sheila Gray and Angela Polite at the sewing machines, and many details are applied by hand.

These women have been the royal seamstresses for GCCA for years and have done an outstanding job crafting a theme into a wearable costume. Fabrics are purchased from New Orleans to New York, and hundreds of selections are made to craft these masterpieces. The costumes require months to create and large spaces for sewing and fabrication. They work closely with the captain and lieutenant captain to ensure the 34

themes are translated for the court to wear for the coronation ball, parades and many special appearances throughout the year.

THE COURT While the costumes are in the early stages, the court must be selected. For GCCA, this process begins in the spring soon after Mardi Gras is over. The nomination and vote for the king and queen is a well-kept secret until their identities are revealed right before Mardi Gras week.

Several names typically are offered for king and queen, and a majority vote of the Board of Directors determines the final decision. Then, the association will select four dukes, and the king will select four.

The queen also chooses four maids, and the association chooses four young ladies as well. Then the fun begins, and the bonding between court members and new friends creates memories that last a lifetime.

More than 50 different krewes and Mardi Gras organizations operate along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and each is unique in history and style. Les Cavaliers revelers have their coronation and ball at a host hotel, where members decorate the tables in high style according to the theme. It can get quite competitive for the members who participate. The court is announced at the ball with great anticipation from the crowd, where a dance follows with a live band until the early hours of the next day.

Les Masque, a women's organization in Biloxi, chooses a queen by vote at an annual meeting, and then she choos-

January-February 2019

Photography by William Colgin Many of you know Susan Hunt (above). Her late father, Walter Kenner “Skeet” Hunt, and her late grandfather, Walter Henry “Skeet” Hunt, were part of the original Gulf Coast Carnival Association. She is really an unofficial Mardi Gras queen, although she never actually held the title.

es her court — which remains a secret until the ball during the season.

The Krewe of Athena, another all women's krewe, has a dance revue-style ball with members dressed in costumes that perform routines in groups before the royal court is introduced.

The Order of Mithras is the oldest men’s organization in Biloxi, and a king or queen is not chosen until the night of the ball — which typically is held on the Friday before Mardi Gras day.

MEMBERSHIP So how you can become a member? Many krewes are capped by a number, and usually potential members are submitted to the membership for a vote when a spot becomes available. These are harder to join. Many others simply add members who are willing to pay the dues, but they must be voted in by the general membership or the board.

So, ultimately, there is no

right or wrong way to enjoy this fabulous time of year. The best advice is to dive in and enjoy it, whether that’s simply going to a parade or a public event or joining an organization and potentially becoming royalty.

The all-important phrase to remember is "laissez les bon temps rouler". Translated, that means let the good times roll!

ABOUT THE WRITER

Andi Oustalet has been organizing events and fundraisers for over 30 years in numerous capacities. Mardi Gras is among her passions because of her family’s involvement and the impact it has for so many businesses on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Her husband, Butch Oustalet, was King d’Iberville in 2011. Her daughter, Kimberley Rushton Wilson, was a royal maid to Queen Christina Carter Burks in 2012 and reigned as Queen Ixolib in 2016. Kate Rushton is the reigning Queen Ixolib for 2018 and was a royal maid for Queen Katelyn Watts Braswell in 2014.

She served as a maid for Les Cavaliers Organization in 2017 with Queen Alina Goldin

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January-February 2019

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Krewe of Bonne Vivantes

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By Jennifer Gentile

Royalty runs in the family

Krewe of Diamondhead announces first legacy queen Sixteen years and one day after the Krewe of Diamondhead crowned her parents king and queen, Dinah Rhoades has resumed her family’s reign.

On Dec. 8, the Krewe named Dinah Rhoades queen for 2019. In 2003, Chuck Garrison and his wife, Til Garrison, were one of the first husband-and-wife pairs to hold their king and queen titles, and their daughter is the first legacy for the relatively young krewe. She will serve alongside the king, her husband Ron Rhoades “It’s very special,” says Rhoades, a registered nurse who moved to the Diamondhead area 11 years ago. The new royal adds, “I was honored not only for myself, but for the Krewe of Diamondhead. We want to get Diamondhead on the map! We welcome all those who are new to the area and those who have legacies of their own.”

Rhoades’s parents retired to the Mississippi Gulf Coast 25 years ago, but her memories of the region reach back as far as she can remember.

“It is an honor to be able to represent the Krewe of Diamondhead, as well as my family,” Rhoades says. “It is a privilege to follow in the footsteps of my parents. They are remarkably well respected in this community and have served the Gulf Coast since I was a child in grade school.

“I hope to represent the krewe as well as they did and lead by example for future royalty.”

When they speak of her title, Rhoades says pride shines in her parents’ eyes — and Til shed tears when she learned her daughter would be wearing her coronation gown from 44

January-February 2019

2003. Her father, who became Ali’I Ho-Nua the XXVIII at his coronation, normally would process into the ceremony with past kings — but he opted to escort his daughter instead.

“My parents were overjoyed to be able to see me follow in their footsteps in representing the Krewe of Diamondhead,” Rhoades says. “As young members, we would have opportunities in the future to be royals but to have the privilege of participating in the ceremonies together is priceless.”

As a queen, she says, “I look forward to honoring traditions of the krewes of the past.”

“I hope to uphold this title with class and grace as my mother did, and as well as the previous queens,” Rhoades adds. “I am humbled when little girls tell me they saw me in the newspaper and want to be a queen someday, too.”

Rhoades calls this first legacy “another milestone” and “feather in our cap” for the krewe, which continues to grow its membership and parade. This year’s Mardi Gras theme is “A Night on the Nile,” but revelry aside, Rhoades praises the krewe’s dedication, sophistication and social commitment to Diamondhead and to the Gulf Coast.

“The krewe is working hard to host a better Mardi Gras celebration every year,” she says. “We encourage diverse organizations, schools, clubs, and all ages to participate in our parade. The Krewe of Diamondhead parade is one that you can enjoy with your whole family.”

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Carnival Events Jan. 5 ANNUAL TWELFTH NIGHT BILOXI 5 p.m.

Biloxi Visitors Center 1050 Beach Boulevard, Biloxi (228) 435-6280 or (228) 3743105

$30 per person

Jan. 26 KREWE OF BONNE VIVANTES, A CELEBRATION OF CIRQUE 7:30 p.m.

Frank Gruich Community Center, Biloxi Tickets by invitation only, floor and view tickets available through active krewe members

ANNUAL KREWE OF NEREIDS MARDI GRAS BALL 9 p.m., strictly formal Mississippi Coast Coliseum Tickets are free, but reservations required; for more info, contact info@thekreweofnereids. com.

Feb. 2 ANNUAL KREWE UNIQUE MARDI GRAS PARADE 2 p.m.

Downtown Ocean Springs (Parade route will begin at corner of Front Beach Drive and Porter Avenue.)

(228) 218-7050 ANNUAL OCEAN SPRINGS ELKS MARDI GRAS PARADE 1 p.m.

Downtown Ocean Springs (228) 872-2501 KREWE OF VENUS BALL — VENUS IN TOYLAND 7 p.m.

Location: Jackson County Civic Center SECOND LINERS MARDI GRAS CLUB — MYSTICAL MAGIC OF MARDI GRAS 8 p.m., doors open 7 p.m.

Gruich Community Center 591 Howard Ave., Biloxi For more information, call Debora Magee at (228) 424-8085

46

January-February 2019

Feb. 9 43RD ANNUAL CARNIVAL BALL 7 p.m. (doors open at 6:15 p.m.)

Biloxi Civic Center $50 per person www.southernettes.com/

Feb. 10 THE REVELERS CARNIVAL ORGANIZATION 68TH ANNUAL CARNIVAL BALL 8 p.m.

Biloxi Civic Center For more information: http://www. therevelers.org Feb. 15 ANNUAL KREWE OF VETERANS BALL 7 p.m.

VFW Post 3373, 4724 Vega St., Pascagoula (228) 769-8387 $20 per person Feb. 16 KREWE OF ELAINES FOURTH ANNUAL MARDI GRAS BALL 7 p.m.

Good Deeds Center 15101 Madison St., Gulfport For more info: (228) 365-4481 $30 per person KREWE OF GEMINI 50TH ANNUAL CARNIVAL BALL — “GOLDEN CARNIVAL”

7 p.m.

Biloxi Civic Center Tickets by invitation only; for more info, contact kreweofgeminigulfport@ gmail.com Feb. 22 CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION OF LONG BEACH ROYAL CORONATION BALL — “REEL HEROES” 8 p.m.

St. Vincent de Paul School For more info: Jennifer Glenn (228) 860-4000 $40 per person Feb. 23 ANNUAL BILOXI CHILDREN’S MARDI GRAS WALKING PARADE 10 a.m.

119 Rue Magnolia, downtown Biloxi (Parade route will begin under the I-110 overpass on Howard Avenue.)

(228) 374-3105 ANNUAL CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION OF LONG BEACH MARDI GRAS PARADE 6 p.m.

Begins at Long Beach High School Calb1960@gmail.com NEPTUNE CORONATION BALL 7 p.m.

Biloxi Civic Center $100 per person www.kreweofneptune.org 62ND ANNUAL LES CAVALIERS’ BALL MASQUE 7 p.m.

IP Resort, Casino & Spa Invitation only lescavaliers@lescavaliers.org

KREWE OF DIAMONDHEAD “NIGHT ON THE NILE” 7:00 pm Diamondhead Country Club Grand Ball Room Sandy Hatem (228) 255-9966 Feb. 24 ANNUAL KREWE OF NEREIDS MARDI GRAS PARADE Noon Begins on Drinkwater Road, Bay St. Louis (228) 342-9232 KREWE OF BARKLOXI ANNUAL BOW WOW PAW-RADE 1 p.m.

Biloxi Town Green, 710 Beach Blvd., Biloxi (228) 435-6149 $10 pre-registration fee per pet, $15 registration day of event, free to watch March 1 OCEAN SPRINGS CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION NIGHT MARDI GRAS PARADE 7 p.m.

Downtown Ocean Springs (Parade begins at Porter Avenue and Front Beach Drive) (228) 355-0146 March 2 THE REVELERS ORGANIZATION 69TH ANNUAL CARNIVAL BALL 7 p.m.

Biloxi Civic Center 578 Howard Ave., Biloxi ANNUAL KREWE OF GEMINI MARDI GRAS DAY PARADE 2 p.m.

Downtown Gulfport (Parade begins on 19th Street.)

(228) 860-2578 ANNUAL KREWE OF NEPTUNE NIGHT MARDI GRAS PARADE 5:30 p.m.

Downtown Biloxi (Parade begins on Main Street) info@kreweofneptune.org ANNUAL KREWE OF SALACIA PARADE 5:30 p.m.

Immediately follows the Krewe of Neptune through downtown Biloxi (228) 424-1530 NORTH BAY AREA MARDI GRAS ASSOCIATION BALL Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; tableau starts at 7:30 p.m.

Location: Joppa Shrine Temple, Woolmarket Ticket price: $20 per person (228) 219-1760 March 3 ANNUAL D’IBERVILLE/ST MARTIN NORTH BAY AREA MARDI GRAS PARADE 1:30 p.m.

Downtown D’Iberville (Parade begins on Lemoyne Boulevard).

ANNUAL ST. PAUL MARDI GRAS PARADE 11:30 a.m.

Davis Avenue and Highway 90, Pass Christian (228) 234-2022

ANNUAL MYSTIC KREWE OF THE SEAHORSE MARDI GRAS PARADE 5 p.m.

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47

Deconstructed

gown

Sheila Gray

Sheila Gray of Vancleave has been creating the ornate costumes for the Gulf Coast Carnival Association court since 1980. She shared with us the process of creating a perfect carnival gown.

Photo of Queen Kate provided

by Andi Oustalet

FIRST STOP: NEW YORK We try to go to New York to look for fabrics because there is such a variety of colors and styles of fabrics to choose from. We try to choose several pieces to present to the queen just so she can find that perfect one.

TRAINS & MANTELS I start with the trains and mantels. My husband, Jerry, and I build the wire work for the base of the mantels. I then cover them with the chosen fabrics and bling them with stones, plumes and beaded fringe."

LONG AND HEAVY The trains are an average of 18 feet long and can get pretty heavy once all the applique designs are added. The trains take hundreds of yards of sequins and several gross of rhinestones.

I have two to three fittings with the queen and king before the finishing touches are done.

DEADLINE CRUSH The costumes must be completed three weeks prior to Mardi Gras so formal pictures can be taken. In the end, we have made new friends that are lifelong and do work that we truly enjoy.

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January-February 2019

healthierYOU

Tireless

transformer From veterans to vision boards, Jocelyn Gavin-Lane gives her all to others

By Jennifer Gentile Jocelyn Gavin-Lane isn’t satisfied with the status quo.

“I don’t do well with redundancy; I get bored quickly with that,” says GavinLane, national president of the Pink Lotus Project Inc., licensed social worker and owner of Premier Professional Counseling Services, LLC, in Gulfport. “I’m always looking for an opportunity to do something better, to think outside the box.”

Gavin-Lane’s friends call her an “innovator, connector of people and a visionary.” She describes herself as comical, giving, loving, friendly and sometimes “all over the place.”

“I thrive in spaces were new systems can be created and nurtured,” she adds. “I truly have a heart of service.”

Gavin-Lane’s mother, Donzell Gavin, says her daughter has never met a stranger and “always has something good to say about everybody.” Although she often has to remind her only child to slow down, Gavin commends her many accomplishments, including dual master’s degrees in social work and public health.

“She’s big on education; she’s big on giving back to the community,” Gavin says. “Whatever happens, she always puts others above herself.”

Gavin-Lane’s desire to serve led her

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49

them what I needed at that age,” she says. “While I had wonderful family support, I didn’t have career mentorship, and that was something I needed.

“I had someone who told me I could be anything I wanted, but I had not seen that.”

SEEING IS BELIEVING Since starting her social work career, Gavin-Lane has met several mentors who led by example.

She entered the field on the front lines, working for the state Department Photograph by Brandi Stage Portraiture of Human Services, and still remembers to pursue social work, where she has the day she had to remove a baby seen firsthand the challenges surfrom a home during an abuse and rounding adoption, hospice care and neglect investigation. helping veterans — specifically the As she left with the infant — and homeless population. Many peotears in her eyes — her mentor, Lora, ple visit their doctor for an annual comforted and reassured her. physical, she says, but neglect equally “While working at this job, important aspects of their well-being.

I truly learned to advocate for “There is no health without mental others in a non-judgmental health,” she says. “It’s important to manner, how to meet people continue the conversation of mental where they are and to not try wellness in our communities. The to fix people — but help guide stigma is huge, but the price we pay them to a personal space where for not dealing with mental health is they can be productive members astronomical.” of society,” Gavin-Lane says. “These While she was exposed to colqualities can be read in a book, but lege-educated women growing up, they can be developed beautifully by including her aunts, the Bay Springs, having good mentorship.”

Miss., native didn’t encounter any feGavin-Lane acknowledges strugmale physicians — or have role modgling with self-doubt and the feeling els from other non-traditional careers that she needed others’ permission to for women. Wanting to provide that pursue her passions. Her strong desire for future generations, she launched to serve teen girls led her to create the the Pink Lotus Academy in 2015.

Pink Lotus Project — a female-cenMore than 25 female high school tered nonprofit — and a good friend students are involved in the academy, where they learn leadership skills and reminded her the idea didn’t have to “fit” into some existing construct. receive personal coaching.

“She simply said, ‘create your own “My hope is to be able to offer to

space; you don’t need validation from anyone but yourself and God that this is right for you,’” Gavin-Lane recalls.

“That’s what I needed to propel me to start the leadership academy and expand Pink Lotus Project.”

The organization, which was founded in 2013, now has 27 active members completing service projects across the Gulf Coast. One such effort, the annual “Cha-Cha for the Ta-Tas Breast Cancer Awareness Line Dancea-Thon,” raised more than $10,000 for the Memorial Hospital Foundation Breast Imaging Fund.

“The mission of Pink Lotus Project is to change lives one project at a time,” Gavin-Lane says. The organization focuses on programs and services that empower women and girls physically, mentally, emotionally and financially.

Praising his wife’s ambition and unselfishness, her husband says Gavin-Lane’s “big personality” belies her small-town roots. Because of her dedication, he notes that 2020 will produce the Pink Lotus Academy’s first graduating class — and the project has made an impact far beyond the Gulf Coast.

I absolutely believe in the power of vision and goal setting.

50

January-February 2019

“She took her nonprofit from an idea to a national stage,” Jamel Lane says admiringly. “She didn’t just keep it to here, she wanted to help young women all over the United States.”

PUTTING GOALS ON PAPER When committing to positive change, Lane says, “I absolutely believe in the power of vision and goal setting.” To that end, she actively works on a personal vision board throughout the year and encourages others to do the same. Far more than “pictures cut out of a magazine,”

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Gavin-Lane explains that a vision board helps someone keep her aspirations in order and stay accountable to them.

“My board is packed with goals for myself, my family, my career and my business,” Gavin-Lane says. “I am very strategic and intentional about what I put on my board.”

She invites those who are serious about personal growth to participate in her ongoing “Fierce & Fearless” vision board program, which is tailored to entrepreneurs, professionals and others seeking to adjust the trajectory of their lives.

To women wanting to advance personally and professionally, Gavin-Lane’s advice is to put goals on paper, focus, practice self-care, take classes or workshops to gain skills and knowledge, ask for help, have an accountability partner and emulate those who have been successful in their field.

“Transformation for me personally and professionally has definitely come with growth, learning, and surrendering to something greater than (myself),” Gavin-Lane says. “Selfcare is an aspect that gets overlooked by women often; we wear so many hats that we often consider ourselves last.

“By doing this, we do ourselves an injustice — and all those who love and support us.”

To fuel her own drive, Gavin-Lane relies heavily on God, a diligently updated calendar and her support system of family and friends — including Jamel, with whom she shares

five children and one grandchild. Now married for 16 years, Gavin-Lane is grateful to Jamel for “picking up the slack when I’m busy, giving me pep talks at night before bed and allowing me to shine in my own space and in my own right.”

Outside of her family and work commitments, Lane is a member of Upsilon Chi Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., the Gulf Coast chapter of The Links Inc., auxiliary to the AEAONMS (Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles Mystic Shrine) Karun Court #89, the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi board of directors and the National Association of Social Work Board of Directors-Mississippi Chapter. She also serves as the Healthcare for Homeless Veterans outreach coordinator for the VA Gulf Coast Healthcare System.

Although she has been recognized as a Top Influencer at the at the annual SUCCESS Women’s conference, won awards from Upsilon Chi Omega and earned other distinctions, Gavin-Lane recognizes that accomplishment rarely comes without failure. Especially to entrepreneurs, she stresses the importance of persistence.

“No one has built a successful business without making mistakes,” Gavin-Lane says. “Recover, regroup, re-energize and move forward.”

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January-February 2019

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CARING begins at

COASTAL FAMILY HEALTH P R E N ATA L CA R E

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coastalfamilyhealth.org

January-February 2019

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YOUR BEST YOU DETOX

Banish toxins from your body with a detox, cleanse

By Denise Keyser

Let’s face it; we live in a toxic environment. We breathe, eat, bathe and walk in various forms of toxins. A study by the Pesticide Action Network found that in 9,282 Americans, an average of 13 pesticides were present in each person. Toxins can be found in the brain and nervous system, hormone system, reproductive system and immune system — sometimes manifesting as birth defects and abnormal development.

Toxins can come from our foods, pesticides, plastics, smoking, stress, reduced immune system (prescriptions), processed foods, sugar and many other sources. Testing is available to measure the amount of PCB (polychlorinated biphenyl), chlorinated pesticides, volatile solvents, parabens, heavy metals, BPA (industrial chemical bisphenol A) and other toxins in our bodies.

A good cleanse/detox program that includes clean foods, supplements, tidying up your environment and reducing stress can reduce the impact toxins have on our body. The difference between a cleanse and detox are (and both are important): Cleanse: “Cleans out” the digestive tract with the use of laxatives or high fiber content.

Detox: Excrete toxins from the organs or tissues, and does not affect the gut or bowels.

Some reasons to undertake a cleanse/detox include weight loss, toxin removal, better digestive health, boosting immune function, elevating mood, increasing energy and improving complexion. Any toxins in our blood tend to manifest themselves on our skin in the form of acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, canker sores and many other chronic skin conditions. Detoxification can be accomplished through the use of water, foods, supplements or essential oil blends. Other organs to consider detoxing are bowels, liver, kidneys, lungs, blood and the lymph system.

Avoid chemical/toxic exposure by drinking purified, filtered water (half your body weight in ounces), eating 56

January-February 2019

organic foods, purchasing natural cleaning products, using safe personal care products, not using plastic containers, avoiding mercury and fluoride, not using pesticides in your house or lawn, reducing stress and boosting the immune system.

Foods to eat during cleanse/detox include organic greens (like kale), cruciferous veggies (like broccoli and cabbage), deep-colored fruit and veggies, proteins (beans, nuts, seeds, chicken or fish). While cleansing or detoxing, avoid processed sugar, coffee, alcohol, gluten, dairy, soy, corn, eggs and red meat. Research the dirty versus clean dozen food products to avoid common pesticides.

Detoxifying your liver is a good start. The liver is the major filter in our bodies where toxins can be stored. During a detox, waste products from the liver will be excreted either through the gall bladder, bowels (bile) or kidneys (urine).

A variety of supplements and essential oils can be useful as a detox aid. A complete listing is beyond the intent of this article, but ensure you get a good quality supplement from a reputable manufacturer that does not contain fillers and ingredients that are not useful. Visit your health food store and discuss your needs with a knowledgeable staff member.

Denise Keyser is owner of Coast Health and Nutrition, located in Gulfport. To learn more, call (228) 831-1785 or visit http://www. coasthealthandnutrition.com/.

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57

YOUR BEST YOU GET A PLAN

GET A PLAN and build a board

By Jocelyn Gavin-Lane

d your

Downloa

ion Free Vis mplate e T d r a o B .com ltimedia

@ gcwmu

58

January-February 2019

It’s a new year full of new goals, plans and affirmations. But how do you nail down and, most importantly, work your plan?

There are several steps to creating an optimal vision for the new year. Vision boards are a wonderful tool, but do you actually know what they are? If you think you can just post some pictures and affirmations on a board and things will just happen, you’ve got it all wrong. Vision boards are filled with intentions. Intentions are no good without a plan and putting in the work.

So what can you do to create your vision for the new year?

At the outset, take a moment to reflect on the current year. What worked? What didn’t? What do you need to do more of to reach your goals?

When goal setting, it’s imperative that you look at your entire circumstance: What is your reality right now? Be honest about where you are and where you would like to be.

Then ask yourself: What are my goals? What actions do I need to take to get what I need? One thing about goals: they are just that if you put no action to them. I usually list my goals in areas of my life that promote overall wellness. I list goals for career, business, health, family, finances, education/lifelong learning and anything else important to me at that time. It is also important to list your goals for the short term and long term. Are your goals SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely)? Creating SMART goals is a perfect way to be sure your goals are attainable.

Next, gather your magazines, affirmations and pictures. Make sure to choose magazines, cutouts and affirmations that are important to you. This may require purchasing a couple of magazines that speak to some of the things that are meaningful to you to place on your board. Now that you have all your materials and board, be sure to set the mood in a calm and affirming area. Light some candles, play inspirational music, pour your favorite glass of wine and start building your board.

Now that you have your board complete, it is important to actively start working on it. Set definite plans to reach each intention you’ve identified. Now, watch your board work!

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59

YOUR BEST YOU SET A BUDGET

Don’t give up on

budgeting T

here are as many opinions about budgeting as there are about politics or religion. However, opinions are just that — opinions. Until you put your opinion to the test, you won’t know if it simply is a personal preference or something based on truth and facts. The same is true for a budget.

Most adults have heard about budgeting and perhaps have experience with a budget at work. Perhaps your friends, parents or banker told you that you need one; maybe you have even tried budgeting and because you were unsuccessful declared budgeting to be a hoax, something untrue and unworkable. If you find yourself in one of these categories I encourage you to give budgeting a try or another try. Setting up your initial budget takes work, and keeping a budget requires self-discipline and some flexibility.

Here are a few tips to help you along in the process.

ANALYZE Sit down and look at where you are financially and be real about what actions you took that brought you to where you are. Do you want to stay where you are financially?

If so, stay on your current path. If not, then now is the time to make a real plan and make a change. If you

60

January-February 2019

By Kathy Rogers

don’t change your actions, you can’t expect different results.

SET GOALS What are your near-term and long-term priorities? Why are those your priorities? Are they wants, needs or dreams? Make a list and rate each item’s importance. Be real about the steps you must take to reach them and get started. Don’t overload yourself, but don’t sell yourself short.

KNOW WHERE YOUR MONEY IS Figure out what is coming in and going out. This is part of the hard work. If you do not have a budget, or yours is not working, keep a written account of every penny you spend and earn for the next 30 days, including deductions from your paycheck.

REVIEW EXPENDITURES When we don’t track and review our expenditures, we can’t adjust them. Total every spending category. Adjust your spending so you can do what really matters to you.

LIVE BELOW YOUR MEANS Just because you have the money

does not mean you should spend it.

A good rule is the 10-10-80 principle. As a Christian, I believe that 10 percent of my gross earnings should go to support my local church. The next 10 percent should go toward savings, an emergency fund and planning now for retirement. The remaining 80 percent is yours to spend to fund your needs, desires and dreams.

SET A BUDGET Many apps and online tools are available to help, as well as the old-fashioned spreadsheet. Do some research and find the one that works for you. Review and adjust your budget periodically to be sure it still is helping you meet your goals.

CUT YOURSELF SOME SLACK Like a diet, if you never give yourself an occasional cheat day, you may not be able to endure for the long haul. Set yourself up for success!

Budgeting done right benefits you now and in the long term.

Kathy Rogers is the VP of Marston Rogers Group and specializes in business transitions and retirement plans. She can be reached at Kathy@marstonrogers.com or (228) 206-5902.

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YOUR BEST YOU SHAPE UP

Commit to getting FIT in 2019

By Rebeca Gonzalez Barker

2019 is here — and it is time to set those new health and fitness goals!

With the new year comes a fresh opportunity to become the best you possible. You have to make it work for you — and here’s where to start:

SETTING GOALS • Start by choosing your “WHY.” Why do you want to lose weight, get fit or get healthy?

• Set realistic and attainable goals, including 30-, 60-, and 90-day goals.

• Make the commitment. Focus on making the necessary changes to your diet, setting a workout schedule and making your health goals a priority.

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• Find an accountability partner, fitness class or gym that will help you stay on track.

SCHEDULING FOR SUCCESS • Adjust exercise days and times as needed. We all know that life can be hectic, so proper preparation is key.

NUTRITION IS A MAJOR COMPONENT FOR YOUR FITNESS GOALS • It’s not about eating less; it’s about eating more of the right kinds of foods.

• Here is an easy roadmap for understanding nutrition.

• Calories — Food that is high in nutrients but not high in calories is your best choice.

• Fat — There are three kinds of fat: • Unsaturated fat: Good for the heart.

• Saturated fat: Moderate levels are recommended, but high levels may cause heart disease. These kinds of fats are found in meats and dairy.

• Trans fat: Should be avoided, as it is linked to diabetes, heart and cardiovascular disease.

• Cholesterol: Too much cholesterol is bad for the heart.

• Sodium: Regulates blood pressure and blood volume.

Limit high-sodium foods.

• Carbohydrates: These are the No. 1 source of energy.

Processed carbs burn quickly and can spike blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Whole-grain carbs are high in fiber and help maintain your appetite and help keep your blood sugar stable.

• Fiber: Helps your digestive system stay healthy and keeps you feeling full longer.

• Sugar: Limit foods high in processed sugar.

• Protein: Contains essential nutrients for the human body. Helps build lean muscle, serves as a fuel source and much more.

Now, that we have reviewed the importance of food, here are my top 10 workout tips for you to kick off your fitness journey: SHAPE UP CONTINUED ON P. 74

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YOUR BEST YOU RELATIONSHIPS

Fixing key relationships takes focus, communication

With the new year upon us, our attention often turns to making improvements in our lives. If you find your most significant relationships are fraught with dysfunction, miscommunication and

By Shelia Rivers turmoil, now is the time to act.

To develop healthier relationships in 2019, keep the following in mind: DETERMINE WHAT YOU WANT IN THE RELATIONSHIP Being in a relationship that is not emotionally and psychologically supportive is like going into Walmart without a list. You will end up with anything in your basket and paying the price to have it. Many of us have visited our local Walmart and have some idea what we need, but the list is not written down nor saved on our phone. We keep rehearsing the list in our head – bread, milk, eggs, yogurt, granola bars and salad mix. It seems simple enough that we could remember those six items, but then something catches our eye in the electronics section. We now have strayed from the list.

Although we have something in the basket that could be useful, it was not among the needs for which we entered the store. Consider our lives the shopping basket, and our relationships with others the essential characteristic that govern the interactions. Determining what you want in a relationship should consist of realistic, functional characteristics. Be sure that your thought process is rational and consider the core values on which your own integrity, morals, values and beliefs are built on.

These factors may take a little time. It requires you to get 64

January-February 2019

to know who you are as a person and not the roles you play such as mother, aunt, father, friend, brother, etc.

Although the roles you play may contribute to who you are, it should not define your being.

COMMUNICATION Communication is the key piece to healthy relationships, and the communication style is a fundamental building block. Assertive communication is a style in which a person voices his or her own wants and needs while respecting the rights of others and without behaving in a passive or aggressive way. Being able to effectively communicate consists of displaying interpersonal skills, such as verbal communication, nonverbal communication, listening, negotiation, problem solving and decision making. Consistent, open and honest communication allows the opportunity to have a deeper, more personal connection with the other individual.

IS THIS RELATIONSHIP HEALTHY FOR ME? Healthy relationships support your emotional, psychological, and spiritual health. Emotional support helps us to encourage and empower each other. Emotional support not only is given when times are difficult, but it becomes part of your daily routine within the relationship.

Psychological support provides adaptive ways of coping with stressors and decreases the probability of serious mental health issues developing. Spiritual support promotes wellness in areas that define who you are — your morals, your values and your beliefs as an individual.

EVERY RELATIONSHIP IS DIFFERENT Being able to develop mutual, respectful and healthy relationships based on commonalities, integrity, morals, values and beliefs are a few factors that build a foundation for a resilient relationship. Fixing relationships may not always be defined as remaining in the relationship. If the relationship is not healthy, deciding to disconnect from the dysfunction and set healthy boundaries is another step toward making healthy lifestyle choices. Having the power to say, “No, this relationship is not for me at this time,” is the best way to protect your own peace, self worth and sanity. If at any point you find yourself torn in making the decision to fix the relationship or disconnect, developing maladaptive coping skills, uncertain of what you want from the relationship, struggling with ineffective communication or exhibiting and receiving non-support, seek professional help. This may give you a clearer understanding regarding the characteristics of a healthy relationship.

Shelia Rivers is owner and chief therapist at Rivers Psychotherapy Services, PLLC, located at 2218 18th St., Suite B, in Gulfport. She can be reached at (707) 728-5131.

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YOUR BEST YOU NUTRITION more color they have, the more antioxidants.”

OK, so blueberries are good for you, but just what are superfoods? The term is bandied about, but let’s cut the hype.

Superfoods do not have their own food group, and the American Heart Association says there are no set criteria for determining what is and what is not a superfood. The Internet is full of stories about the top 10 or top 25 superfoods, ranging from blueberries to chia seeds to sweet potatoes to salmon to fruits and nuts.

One researcher considers broccoli sprouts and salmon two of the most perfect superfoods.

Head spinning yet? Let’s make this simple. Superfoods are mostly plant-based but can include some fish and dairy. Superfoods have extra large doses of vitamins and minerals that can help ward off diseases and lead to a longer, healthier life, according to Despina Hyde, nutritionist at New York University’s Langone Medical Center.

Nutrients in superfoods include antioxidants, thought to ward off cancer and prevent heart disease; fiber, thought to prevent diabetes and digestive problems; or phytochemicals, the plant chemicals responsible for deep colors and smells in fruits like blueberries, which have several health benefits.

Give your body a

BOOST with superfoods

By Andrea Yeager

M

ississippi ranks near the top at growing one of the best superfoods.

Mississippi’s “blues,” or blueberries, which are grown near the Coast, are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, soluble fiber and phytochemicals (flavonoids).

Blueberries also top the list of superfoods, a nutrient-rich food considered to be especially beneficial for health and well-being. Other berries, strawberries and cranberries, also are rich in nutrients.

“Inflammation is a key driver of all chronic diseases, so blueberries have a host of benefits,” says Dr. Ann Kulze of Georgia, author of “Dr. Ann’s 10-Step Diet: A Simple Plan for Permanent Weight Loss and Lifelong Vitality.” “When selecting berries, note that the darker they are, the more antioxidants they have.

“I tell everyone to have a serving (about 1/2 cup) every day,” Kulze says. “Frozen are just as good as fresh. Be sure to include lots of other fruits and vegetables as well.

Remember, too, that in general, the 68

January-February 2019

HERE ARE SOME OF THE MOST POPULAR, AND BELIEVED TO BE SOME OF THE BEST,

SUPERFOODS: • Kiwifruit, which provides similar benefits to berries, melons, citrus fruits, apples and pears — all high in vitamin C and antioxidants.

• Beans and whole grains always make a superfoods list. Beans are low-fat protein and contain insoluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol; soluble fiber, which makes you full longer; vitamins and minerals, such as manganese. Whole grains still contain bran and germ that is not stripped in processing.

Quinoa isn’t a grain but cooks up like one and has protein, vitamins, fiber, antioxidants and minerals.

• Nuts and seeds have high levels of minerals and healthy fats but are high calorically.

Watch your portions.

• Kale still ranks high as a superfood, but so do Swiss chard, collard and mustard greens, spinach, cabbage and broccoli. All are high in vitamins A, C and K, as well as fiber, calcium and minerals.

• Squash and sweet potatoes are excellent sources of fiber, vitamin A and much more. They are also naturally sweet and don’t

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require the butter, cream or salt typically added to potatoes.

• Salmon, sardines, mackerel and certain other fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. The benefits of eating fish may far outweigh the risk of harming your health from the mercury these fish contain, according to Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

• Exotic fruits, such as acai berry, dragon fruit, pomegranate, noni fruit and rambutan, are “the fruits of the year.” Just because they are exotic does not mean they have higher anti-cancer properties than blueberries and raspberries.

Like kale, attention focuses on these exotic, pricier fruits, making them the trendy fruits.

• Green tea, dark chocolate (the darker the better, no less than 60 percent cocoa), yogurt and olives.

If these superfoods are eaten with little processing or little sugar, they rank as superfoods. Read labels on the amount of sugar in teas or super fruit juices.

Superfoods are healthy, but so are other fruits and vegetables. Most dietitians and nutritionists still suggest a well-rounded diet that includes more than just superfoods. Remember, the more color in veggies or fruits, the higher the antioxidants, and that is a good thing.

Andrea Yeager is a freelance writer who lives in Long Beach with her daughter, granddaughter and pets.

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Protect your brain with proper nutrition

Y

our brain is the most metabolically active organ in the body. It uses 20 percent of all energy consumed from food. That makes it more active than the heart, kidneys, liver and muscles. Because of this high metabolism, the brain is highly sensitive to the food you consume or nutritional deficiency.

If you have a brain disorder called Attention Deficit Disorder, portions of your brain function at low levels and/or connect poorly to other parts of the brain. Those brain connections are even more sensitive to nutrition than normal brains, placing an already disadvantaged brain at greater disadvantage.

Through the magic of nuclear scanning, we literally can “see” how brain metabolism changes with foods and nutrients. We also can measure metabolites, good and bad, as we manipulate nutrition. This dietary manipulation is called Medical Nutrition Therapy, or MNT. Common uses of MNT include treatment of Type 2 diabetes, fatty liver or chronic kidney disease. Only recently have we started using MNT to improve brain function. MNT uses macronutrients such as sugar-carbohydrates, protein-amino acids, fatty acids, and micronutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and enzymes.

On a basic level, simple sugar as found in soda, juices, sports drinks and sweet tea is very toxic to brain cell (neuron) function. Sugars induce 70

January-February 2019

By Dr. Stanford Owen

a state called “insulin resistance,” in which the body’s insulin is blocked from allowing nutrients into cells, including brain cells.

Blocked nutrients include carbohydrates for energy, proteins for growth and repair and fats for growth of nerve fibers (called axons and dendrites). In addition, insulin resistance is associated with production of toxic proteins called cytokines, produced by the intestine, fat cells and liver, which directly injure the nerve cells and the “support” or nurse cells of the brain called the astrocyte. These cytokines kill or injure the brain cell, the axon or dendrite “branches” connecting nerve cells and the blood vessels supplying oxygen.

The result: poor focus, tasking and organization; brain cells aren’t connecting!

The combination of animal fat (pork, beef, dairy) with carbohydrates (wheat, corn, rice, potatoes) is even worse for the brain than simple sugars.

This fat-carb combination provokes toxic cytokine secretion that causes inflammation, cell death and cancer growth. The cytokines cause diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attacks and cancer — connecting the foods you eat to the diseases you acquire.

I’m writing this article the day prior to Thanksgiving. Think about your brain Thanksgiving evening or night — tired and sluggish with an achy, fatigued body. These symptoms are caused by cytokines induced by large amounts of fatty, carbohydrate-filled foods. Everyone has to take a nap after the meal. Worse, the day after Thanksgiving is the number-one heart attack and stroke day of the year. Toxic cytokines hurt all organs and vessels,

not just the brain.

So what can you do? I recommend eliminating simple sugary drinks entirely —adults and kids — forever. They damage your brain. I also recommend confining animal fat-carbohydrate meals to twice per week.

Examples? Cereal and milk, bread and butter, meat and bread (sandwiches), biscuit and sausage, pizza, pasta and cream sauce. Greasy animal fat on top of white or yellow carbs is toxic.

WHITE AND YELLOW — KILL A FELLOW What are some non-toxic foods?

Seafood, poultry, non-starchy vegetables, eggs, nuts and whole fruit are examples. Protein amino acid smoothies are a good substitute for milk. What about supplements? A good multivitamin, fish oils (EPA/DHA), methyl-folate, vitamin D (if deficient), and possibly B12, B6 and magnesium, can be helpful. Other supplements, such as citicholine, may enhance dopamine production to assist in brain cell “talk.”

Carnosine can be added to enhance sleep, the time when brain cells recover and grow.

These are pretty simple foods to add or delete. We spend enormous amounts of time, energy and money trying to enhance our kids or our personal performance and appearance while ignoring the “elephant in the room” — poor brain nutrition.

What makes you “you” is not your heart, and it’s not your liver or kidneys. Those can all be transplanted from someone else.

“YOU” are your brain.

Protect it from trauma and toxic foods, exercise it physically and mentally and feed it foods that enhance brain function. Make “YOU” better.

Stanford A. Owen, MD is board certified in internal medicine, nutrition and psychopharmacology. He is a fellow of the Obesity Society. He can be contacted at the ADD Clinics of Mississippi at (228) 864-9669 or at drowenmd@drdiet.com.

His website is www.addclinics.com.

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Dawn Lieck's STORY BEFORE MY TRANSFORMATION Before my health transformation, I was running on empty every day. I was exhausted, with no energy or motivation to do anything beyond what I absolutely had to. I’ve always been a confident person, but that had slipped away as well. I really didn’t like myself anymore. I had low self-esteem, was unable to focus and basically was a shell of who I once was.

I assessed my life as a whole and knew immediately that I had to start with improving my health so that I could go on to accomplish other goals I had dreamed about. Having had weight issues since childhood, I’ve tried just about every “diet” that’s come out. I’d lose the weight only to gain it all back and then some shortly thereafter.

WHAT I DID This time, I did my homework and looked for a plan that was going to be a health plan versus another “diet.” I wanted to learn how to live a healthy lifestyle so that once I reach my goal, I’ll be able to maintain my weight because I’ll have the knowledge to make healthy decisions. The plan I chose also includes a health coach, which has been pivotal to my success. Support is key on any major life change or endeavor.

My daily intake is based on low carbs and low sugar.

I eat six times a day, which includes meal replacements and actual meals — no pills or crazy, awful drinks. I get in approximately 100 ounces of water a day and 30 minutes of movement, whether it’s exercise or walking.

I have lost 61 pounds in 23 weeks! To be honest, the hardest part about my transformation was making the decision to start.

HOW IT WORKED We think if we can’t eat whatever we want whenever we want, we won’t be able to enjoy our lives. This is so far from the truth. When you learn to live a healthy lifestyle, you will not feel deprived of anything. Your “why” you want to be healthy far outweighs that momentary satisfaction of eating that cake. Yes, of course there will be times that you have that piece of cake, and that’s OK as long as you’re making a conscious decision about your actions.

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January-February 2019

BEFORE

AFTER

HOW I FEEL ABOUT MYSELF TODAY I can’t express enough how fantastic I feel, physically and mentally. The brain fog has lifted. I can focus, my energy has returned tenfold, and my confidence level is through the roof. I’m back to my true self and living my best life, so much so that I have made the decision to become a health coach myself so I can help my friends and family enjoy the success that I have experienced.

MY ADVICE TO OTHERS My advice is this: Just start. Small steps very soon turn into strides as long as you keep going in the direction of the prize — and the prize is you. Write out a plan for your goals; your “why” will become more clear once it’s written. Find support for your journey, and don’t go it alone. You’ll never finish if you never start.

Most importantly, you matter. You are important. You are beautiful. Commit to yourself and living your best life!

HEALTHIER YOU sponsored by

Mindi Ducomb's STORY BEFORE MY TRANSFORMATION I was always a “big girl,” but I vividly remember the day I KNEW I had to make a change. It was the day of my college freshman formal, and my friend had a hard time zipping up the formal gown I had rented four months ago. Granted, this dress was the largest size I had worn to date, and I was trying to literally squeeze into it. I had taken my high school crush as my date, and when I went to sit down to eat dinner, my dress ripped up the back because it was too tight.

I was mortified. Luckily the lady who owned the home our formal was held at was able to stitch it up, but I had to practically stand still the entire night.

That following week, I stepped onto the scale to a number I had never seen before, and I vowed right then and there I had to make a change.

80 pounds. Now, however, my goal is to be healthy, to be able to go off my blood pressure medicine, to feel good in my own skin and to continue to challenge my body by changing up my workouts with my online gym.

WHAT I DID I literally had to start from ground zero. I began by using my fitness pal to track my food and worked out over an hour each day five to six times a week.

However, once I moved to the Gulf Coast to start my career as a marine biologist, then fell in love, I quickly realized that I could not sustain that lifestyle (especially now that I am a football coach’s wife). So now, I have an amazing online workout service I use and balance an 80-20 healthy lifestyle (80 percent of the time, we eat healthy, nutritious meals that we prep for the week, and 20 percent of the time, we enjoy ourselves with a glass of wine or slice of birthday cake). I also meal prep every Sunday so we are less likely to eat out and have healthy meals for the entire week.

HOW IT WORKED To date, I am more than 70 pounds lighter, and I have gained muscles I didn’t know were there. I also have dropped five pants sizes, three shirt sizes and six dress sizes. Mentally, I am in a much better place. My stress levels are lower; I sleep better, and I am more energized during the day.

BEFORE

AFTER

MY GOAL My initial goal was to be skinny. I had always wanted to be able to wear a two-piece bathing suit with confidence and not have to worry about my “stomach showing.” From my highest weight, my goal was to lose at least

WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART The most difficult part is the mindset — to not get discouraged if the scale isn’t moving as fast as you’d like, or at all, and to remember a health journey has no destination. Success is measured in many ways on a health

journey, and it’s not just a number on a scale. There is never a “perfect” time to start, so take that leap; you literally have nothing to lose!

HOW I FEEL ABOUT MYSELF TODAY Today, I now can say I love myself in both of those photos below. It has taken me a long time to accept both images and to know no matter what, my health is a priority. One of the most exciting things is that I used to only be able to shop in certain stores because of my size, and it made shopping a terrible experience. Now I can go into almost any store and be able to find cute and affordable clothes.

MY ADVICE TO OTHERS No matter where you are in life, you can do anything you put your mind to. You can do those hard, scary things. If you change your mindset, your body will follow.

As I continue my journey, I also am changing the lives of other women by mentoring them in my online challenge groups as a health and lifestyle coach. I teach others to work out and balance healthy, delicious meals with that occasional cookie or glass of wine. www.gcwmultimedia.com

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YOUR BEST YOU WORKOUT

Got 15 minutes?

Try an EMOTM workout

By Brendan Jones Body Axis Fitness LLC

Have limited time to devote to a fitness routine? You’re not alone.

Choosing to do an EMOTM — or “every-minute-on-the-minute” workout daily for 15 minutes is a great way to do high-intensity interval training and add some spice as you try to beat the clock.

TO START

• Set up a set of movements to do within each minute that passes. For example — do 10 jump squats, five burpees and 15 jumping jacks. To complete a burpee, start in a standing position, go into squat position with hands on the ground, kick feet back in a plank position while keeping arms extended, return feet to squat position and finally stand up from squat position.

• When the timer starts, you do the movements. If you finish with 30 seconds left in the minute, you rest until the next minute starts.

• As this continues, you will fatigue and start to lose rest times if you aren’t working fast enough. This method can be used within any amount of time, but it is very effective in 15-minute blocks.

EMOTM workouts can be a great tool for showing progress over time, and they are versatile — able to be adapted to train anything and to suit anyone’s skill level. For more fitness-related information and resources, visit www.facebook.com/BodyAxisFitness/.

Brendan Jones is a certified personal trainer, CICPT (graduate of Cooper Clinic) and owner of Body Axis Fitness and Axis Strength Systems. He was rated the number one personal trainer on the Gulf Coast in 2018 and is based out of Iron Works Gym, 220 Eisenhower Drive, Biloxi.

SHAPE UP CONTINUED FROM P. 62 • Start slow: Three to five days per week.

• Stretch: Always stretch before you begin your warmup. Stretching helps with blood flow, loosens tight muscles, improves strength, increases relaxation and helps prevent injuries.

• Mix it up: Don’t stick to the same regimen every day.

Move between various types of exercises, including cardio, strength training, flexibility and balance.

• Proper weight training: You want to ensure you select the proper size weights. Start at a comfortable weight size and gradually increase when you’re ready.

• Stay hydrated: Proper water intake helps lubricate the muscles and joints. Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after your workout.

• Know your limits: If you feel any type of discomfort, stop immediately.

• Know when to take a break: Rest days help your body recover naturally.

• Surround yourself with people on the same journey: Group classes are a great way to stay connected to accountability and help to build new fitness friendships.

• Be patient and consistent: Remember, results don’t happen overnight. This is a lifestyle change.

• Have fun: Create memories with your fitness buddies, start a medal collection, get out of your comfort zone and enjoy the journey.

Having a structured exercise regimen is important. Here is an example of a simple workout plan: MONDAY

Upper body exercises

WEDNESDAY

Abs workout

TUESDAY

THURSDAY FRIDAY

SATURDAY SUNDAY

Lower body exercises Total body exercises Cardio

Walking, yoga, and/or stretching Rest

Through my own weight loss of 60 pounds and my knowledge as a registered nurse, living a healthy lifestyle, being physically active and having better eating habits are important for enjoying a better quality of life. I know the road isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. Take it one day at a time, one meal at a time and one workout at a time. As we say at Fitlife Studio, “Let thy fit be thy medicine, and medicine be thy fit.”

For more tips and information, or if you’re looking for a gym home to help you achieve your goals, visit Fitlife Studio online at http://fitlife-studio.com/.

Rebeca Gonzalez Barker is a certified personal trainer at Fitlife Studio and a registered nurse at Memorial Hospital in Gulfport.

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January-February 2019

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By Joe Barker

How to get him

OFF THE COUCH

— and stay OFF A wise man once said, “The hardest steps to take in life are from the sofa to the door.” This quote refers to how difficult it is to find enough motivation to exercise. We all have experienced this at one point or another — going from the dedicated exerciser to the couch potato.

The biggest reason the fitness industry is profitable is because people find it hard to motivate themselves to make lifestyle changes. If you would rather sit in front of the TV than exercise, know you are not alone. Even someone like myself who enjoys exercise and also encourages others to exercise for a living has to recommit every 90 days to a new goal.

It is important to remember that after you start to exercise, it becomes easier once you have established a habit. In your first week or so, you will start to see improvements in energy, endurance, mood, flexibility and strength. All of these improvements will help you and your significant other stay motivated.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO HELP WITH GETTING OFF THE COUCH • Change the way you think about exercise. Instead of dreading it, consider it “me” time.

• Set realistic, attainable and measurable goals. Be specific, and write your goals down.

• Schedule your workouts just as you would schedule business meetings and family time. Put it on the calendar and stick to it.

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• Working out with a friend is fun, and you can help keep each other motivated. It is an opportunity to socialize and a distraction from the activity.

• Be prepared and get proper equipment, including running shoes, comfortable clothing or a set of weights. Only purchase equipment that you need.

• Start off slow. If you are new to working out or it has been a while, pushing too hard too soon can result in injury — and winding up back on the couch unable to exercise.

• Stretch before and after workouts.

This helps with strength and stamina while also improving circulation. It also relaxes you and makes you feel good.

• Track your progress. Check your measurements before you start your exercise program. Continue to check your progress bi-weekly or monthly.

Write everything down, and take before and after pictures.

• Surround yourself with fitness-friendly people, places and things. Doing this is a constant reminder and will help you remain accountable to your goals.

• Make it fun! You are unlikely to keep doing your exercise routine if you’re not having fun, so choose activities that you enjoy. For example, if you hate running, play basketball as a substitute for cardio. You will burn calories and have fun while doing it.

GET GOING WITH THIS FULL BODY WORKOUT Use this routine three times a week, along with 30 minutes of cardio two times a week (walking, running, bike riding, basketball).

• Chest: barbell bench press — four sets of eight reps • Back: lat pulldowns — four sets of 10 reps • Shoulders: seated dumbbell press — four sets of 10 reps • Legs: leg extensions — four sets of 10 reps • Biceps: barbell bicep curls — three sets of 10 reps • Triceps: triceps rope pushdowns — three sets of 15 reps With these 10 tips, we have helped hundreds of people get off the couch and lose thousands of pounds. If you find yourself still struggling after implementing these tips, reach out to Fitlife Studio. We have a great facility featuring qualified trainers with a medical background, and we look forward to helping you achieve the best version of you possible.

Joe Barker owns Fitlife Studio in Gulfport with his wife, Rebeca Gonzalez Barker. You can reach Fitlife at (228) 265-5246.

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YOUR BEST YOU WEIGHT LOSS

Weighing the pros, cons of keto

By Joanna McAdams

Much has been said in these last few years about keto diets. It is very common to hear people talk about using cauliflower rice and zucchini noodles to replace the rice or pasta in their diet. But what is a keto diet? A ketosis diet is high fat, moderate protein and very low carbohydrate (usually around 30 grams per day or less).

Here’s a little nutrition 101 — the body uses glucose (also known as sugar) as its main fuel source. Glucose comes from the carbohydrates we eat, such as sweetened beverages, breads, fruit, beans, rice and cereals. When these carbohydrates are eliminated from our diet, our body switches over to a process of using its own fat as energy.

PROS

So what are some benefits of a ketosis diet: The diet allows for high-fat foods such as cheese, cream and butter that are typically not allowed on more traditional diet.

Exercise is not needed to lose weight. In fact, while in ketosis, it is recommended to avoid heavy or intense exercising.

The ketosis diet can significantly lower blood pressure and help with better blood sugar control in diabetics.

Some research indicates better brain function and decreased inflammation on a ketosis diet. Many people also report better sleep, more energy and improved mental clarity.

The ketosis diet suppresses appetite and enhances satiety.

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The burning of our own fat stores for energy is called ketosis because of the ketones that are produced.

The ketosis diet is not a long-term lifestyle. However once weight loss is achieved, the diet can transition to a lower-carb lifestyle with regular exercise to aid in weight maintenance.

It is important to check with your doctor before considering the ketosis diet, especially if you have medical issues such as diabetes or hypertension.

Joanna McAdams is a registered and clinical dietician with Garden Park Medical Center. She can be reached at Joanna.

McAdams@hcahealthcare.com.

CONS

Some of the negatives of a ketosis diet include:

It takes very careful monitoring of all foods consumed to make sure you are staying under the 30 grams of carbs per day. A few too many carbs can bump you out of ketosis.

It involves preparing and especially planning most of your own meals.

Eating out or social functions can be challenging because of limited keto-friendly choices or many foods containing hidden carbs.

The first several days of your body going into ketosis often is called the ketosis flu. You may feel fatigue and have headaches or even some nausea.

Gastrointestinal irregularity and constipation may be an issue because of the elimination of high-fiber foods from the diet.

The diet lacks many of the nutrients the body needs, so supplementing with vitamins and minerals is essential.

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By Dr. Philip L. Levin

Ovarian cysts may be causing your pelvic pain In the United States, abdominal pain tops the list as the most common reason for someone to come to the emergency department.

In the United States, abdominal pain tops the list as the most common reason for someone to come to the emergency department. Women with pelvic discomfort constitute a large subset of these patients, with ovarian cysts being a frequent cause. Associated with female hormones, these cysts usually go away without symptoms, not causing pain unless they grow quite large.

Besides producing the eggs that can meet with the sperm to make a baby, ovaries also produce the female hormones estrogen and progesterone.

Both of these functions produce cysts.

A follicular cyst forms around the egg as it prepares to leave the ovary. Normally this cyst pops with the expulsion of the egg, creating a site called the corpus luteum — a place that produces extra progesterone to maintain the pregnancy. Not uncommonly, these hormones become trapped, creating a corpus luteum cyst. Even without pregnancy, the hormones being produced by the ovary can form a pocket and create what is called a functional cyst.

I tell my patients that the ovary is very similar to a man’s testicle. As we all know, if one squeezes the testicle, it hurts. The same problem exists with an ovarian cyst. This fluid-filled sac, 80

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the cyst, is squeezing the ovary.

Fortunately, most of the time, these cysts will pop automatically — sometimes producing a momentary sharp pain. If this happens when the follicular cyst produces the egg, it’s called mittelschmerz, (a German word meaning middle pain), and predictably occurs over one ovary halfway through the cycle with discomfort that generally lasts for only an hour or two.

While every menstruating woman develops cysts, some women form multiple cysts, called polycystic ovary syndrome. Normal ovarian function becomes disrupted from all the cysts, resulting in irregular, infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods. Without the expected production of ovarian female hormones, male hormones produced by the adrenal glands can dominate — resulting in obesity, facial hair and acne.

Though uncomfortable, most ovarian cysts are harmless. However, some strange and even dangerous cysts can develop. The weirdest is a dermoid cyst, also called a teratoma. Here an egg has gone awry and tried to create parts of a baby, so the cyst will be filled with hair, skin, human organ parts and even whole teeth. A benign tumor, called a cystadenoma, comes from ovary surface cells and will contain a thick mucus.

Ovarian cancer first can appear as a cyst, though it usually has a more solid appearance. Besides pain in the ovarian area, ovarian cancer may be accompanied by a sense of bloating, fluid retention, loss of appetite and

fatigue. Another uncommon but serious condition, twisting of the ovary — called torsion — results in cutting off its blood supply. It produces sudden severe pain and should be fixed within a few hours to prevent the ovary from dying.

Ultrasound can diagnose most ovarian issues and is available in your gynecologist’s office or the emergency room. Most cysts go away by themselves, but occasionally the gynecologist will have to perform laparoscopy and pop the cyst or remove part of the ovary. For women with frequent and painful cysts, hormonal treatments such as birth control pills may be effective.

All menstruating women develop ovarian cysts, though most have little discomfort from them. For women having frequent issues with recurrent pelvic pain, a discussion with a physician may determine whether special treatment might help. Any time a woman has severe or persistent pain, she should seek a proper evaluation by her caretaker.

Dr. Philip L. Levin is a family medicine specialist in Gulfport and has been practicing for 40 years. He graduated from the University 0f Texas Medical School at San Antonio in 1978 and specializes in family medicine and emergency medicine. He can be contacted at (228) 867-4000.

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Offering compassionate care at all stages of a woman’s life

7/11/18 3:26 PM

Biloxi OB/GYN has an established reputation for excellence, providing women’s healthcare for over 50 years. Our physicians are dedicated to offering the most advanced and cutting edge care on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Our practice is committed to providing exceptional and compassionate care at all stages of a woman’s life.

In addition to annual well-woman care, we offer a vast range of services including, pediatric and adolescent care, contraception, infertility, routine and high risk obstetrical care, 4-D ultrasound, treatment for bladder incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, cancer screening, treatment of menopausal symptoms, minimally invasive gynecological surgery, and Da Vinci Robotic surgery.

We offer appointments Monday through Friday and same day appointments are available. Please browse our website and if you have any additional questions, please call 228-436-6658 to speak with our staff. Thank you for choosing Biloxi OB/GYN. We look forward to serving you.

L to R: Stephen Jones, M.D., Courtney Meredith, M.D. and John H. Mallet, M.D.

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Changing lives Will’s Way

Organization serves families struggling with behavior issues At 18 months old, “Will” had five words in his vocabulary.

At age 3, after displaying many of the classic signs — inability to control moods or behavior, spinning, arm flapping and frustration surrounding communication — he was diagnosed with autism.

Today the Baltimore boy is the driving force behind Will’s Way — an organization that intervenes to help at-risk children throughout Mississippi. With locations in Gulfport and Hattiesburg, as well as a small satellite clinic in Summit, Will’s Way serves more than 200 clients across its sites.

“We don’t view the work that we do as work,” say organization co-owners Dr. Dannell Roberts and Dr. Kimberly Bellipanni. “We are in this field because it is our passion to help families in need. We face struggles and setbacks, of course, but the feeling we get from knowing we’ve helped a family thrive is unmatched. One can’t help but be changed by these moments.”

Bellipanni worked with Will and his family in Baltimore, and she was inspired by his progress. With suc82

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cessful intervention, he learned how to self-calm and redirect frustration.

Social skills programs are showing him how to interact appropriately with his peers, and he likes making people laugh. He also enjoys making movies on the computer and setting them to music.

Will may have autism, but like the hundreds of other children helped by his namesake organization, Roberts and Bellipanni say he is much more than his condition.

“Will is an artist,” according to the doctors. “His talent for drawing allows not only for artistic expression, but also for emotional expression. He expresses his frustrations, joys, fears and current pop culture obsessions through his art.”

Techniques and strategies that worked for Will are now benefitting hundreds of others served by Will’s Way, which started with just Roberts and Bellipanni in a small room in downtown Hattiesburg. Today, the organization has a 29-person staff carrying out its mission: being a lifeline to at-risk children and their families

MORE INFO If you are a Gulf Coast family needing behavioral intervention for a child, Will’s Way can help.

The Gulfport site is located at 9230 Old Lorraine Road and can be reached at (228) 731-3500. Learn more about the organization at www. willswaybehavioral.com.

struggling with behavioral issues.

“The fact that we have grown steadily and are impacting so many families and places is exciting,” Roberts and Bellipanni say. “We want to help clients and their families and schools.

We want them to be happy to come to Will’s Way and know that we are here to help.”

Whatever problems a client brings to Will’s Way — difficulties with dyslexia, sleeping, feeding, toileting, coping skills, social skills or pain management and more — Will’s way is committed to finding a solution. Besides autism, licensed staff work with diagnoses for Asperger’s syndrome, anxiety disorders, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and more Roberts and Bellipanni describe their team members as “enthusiastic and self-motivated people who love

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working with our clients.”

The Gulf Coast clinic caters largely to youth on the autism spectrum, or those with similar traits. Staff members focus on verbal communication, toilet training, feeding and food selectivity problems, as well as compliance, aggression and socialization. Professionals can address issues with shoe-tying, tooth-brushing, dressing, self-feeding and more.

“Additionally, “we offer school-based consultation services to area districts,” Roberts and Bellipanni say. “We love working with clients across multiple environments.” The organization now offers direct therapy services in more than 10 school districts statewide.

Will’s Way carries out its mission well, its founders say, but there are waiting lists at some locations; one of their goals is greater efficiency. As the organization grows, they’d also like to offer a training site for schools, as well as expanded services at satellite clinics — namely psychological evaluations and mental health therapy “We approach every problem brought to us as best we can,” Roberts and Bellipanni say. “We don’t always have the answer, but we will certainly work to help families find the answers and resources.”

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Joint surgery group: A team of nurses and techs celebrate accomplishment.

G

Getting the GOLD

arden Park Medical Center recently earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Total Hip and Knee Replacement Certification — the first, and currently the only, hospital in the state of Mississippi to earn the certification. The Gold Seal of Approval is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective patient care. What this means for patients is better education and outcomes.

Director of Ortho/Post-Surgical, joint camp facilitator and accreditation team leader Jenny Vercher says, “By engaging in this assessment, being graded by industry experts, and ultimately receiving their seal of approval, we know we are doing all we can to prevent complications and empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to heal quickly and safely.”

GPMC underwent a rigorous, on-site review in July 2018. Joint Commission experts evaluated compliance with national disease-specific care standards for total hip and total knee replacements.

The Joint Commission’s Disease-Specific Care Certification evaluates clinical programs across the continuum of care and addresses three core areas: Compliance with consensus-based national standards, effective use of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines to manage and optimize care and an organized approach to performance 84

January-February 2019

Garden Park Medical Center earns accolades for joint replacement care

measurement and improvement activities.

Dr. Lance Johansen, orthopaedic surgeon and vice chief of medical staff at Garden Park, remembers when joint replacement was not as prevalent as it is today.

“Our resources have enhanced our ability to conduct more surgeries,” he says. “Because of technology, physicians have the ability to make a better diagnosis. Patients are living longer and have lives that are more active.

“Individuals contract various forms of arthritis; a side effect of longer life spans and one of the primary reasons patients have the procedure. Orthopedic surgeons are more proficient at performing the procedure, resulting in better outcomes.”

Jackie Switzer, a Gulfport resident and orthopedic patient at GPMC, had two knee replacements several years ago. She said about her experience, “It was the best thing I have ever done. My knees were sore all of the time. I tried everything — physical therapy and pain management – and nothing worked. Replacement surgery has been a blessing.”

One of the best practices GPMC implemented to aid in patient recovery and noted by TJC, was Garden Park’s Joint Replacement Camp. Started in October 2017, Garden Park developed an interactive, educational session for patients undergoing total hip and knee replacements. During this session, the patient has an opportunity to meet members

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from theBOARD joint replacement team, such as pharmacy, CERTIFIED OB/GYN physical therapy, case management, infection prevention Now Offers regarding New Revolutionary and nursing education what to expect before and after surgery. The collaborative approach has been pivotal to the overall success of the patient’s after-surgery care at home. They learn what to do and what not to do.

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CREATE Aare CD OF BABY PICTURES • Diabetics encouraged to keep blood sugar under control to help prevent infection DURING THE ULTRASOUND • Do not to take long car rides after surgery • Stunningly clear images appear much like real photographs • Do not get incisions wet • See your baby’s facial features • Do wear non-skid footwear to prevent falls Gift Certificates Available • Do delegate a care partner to help when A Great Gift Idea for Showers or Special Occasions returning home • YOU Review medications DOofNOT HAVE TO BE A PATIENT

of this practice to enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity surgeon, “Bothto to Dr. bondJames with Thriffiley, your babyorthopaedic before it is born.

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Michael J. Christie, M.D.

ically since I started operating 25 years ago. The Joint Replacement Camp offered at Garden Park Medical Center is a great adjunct to the surgical treatment of joint replacement patients. The Gold Seal designation by • The Normal & High Risk Obstetrics • Laser Surgery Joint Commission for total hips and knees confirms • Laparoscopic Surgery • All aspects of Gynecology the high quality of care for joint replacement patients at Garden Park Medical Center.”

Diplomate of the Board of OB/GYN In partnership withAmerican the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, GPMC hosted a Chamber After Five Quality Care, event in September 2018 and celebrated the Gold Seal Certification with community leaders doctors. At the Oneand Patient event, Garden Park Medical Center CEO Randy Rogers at a Time addressed the audience, saying, “Achieving this high honor is no small feat. Whether it is clinical staff or administrative personnel, we all come to work every day to heal patients. I am proud that one of the most respected accrediting entities in the healthcare industry recognize 2113 Government Street Building I-4 Ocean Springs, what I see in the staff and physicians every MS day39564 – a clear focus on excellence and patient care.”

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The many benefits of Massage

Massage is one of the oldest healing arts. Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use.

Today, massage therapy is a vital part of many physical rehabilitation programs. It has proven benefits for many chronic conditions, and millions will attest that massage helps relieve stress and tension. More than 250 types of massage, bodywork and somatic therapies are now available.

Regardless of the reasons someone seeks out massage therapy — for a luxurious treat, stress relief, pain management or injury rehabilitation — massage can be a powerful addition to your health and wellness regimen.

Research has shown that massage therapy can be an instrumental ingredient in a woman’s prenatal care. Although most massage training institutions teach techniques for women who are pregnant, it is best to find a massage therapist who is certified in prenatal massage. Certified therapists have received training beyond the national standards for massage therapists and know how to address specific pregnancy massage needs.

Massage during pregnancy aims to relax muscle tension and improve lymphatic and blood circulation through mild pressure applied to the muscle groups of the body. It addresses many common discomforts associated with the skeletal and circulatory changes brought on by hormone shifts. Women for safety reasons can begin massage therapy during the second or third trimester, when it’s most needed for their comfort.

Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan. Consult with your obstetrician or family doctor before beginning any new therapeutic practice.

Massage gift certificates are an ideal gift for Valentines Day, birthdays or any special occasion.

Natural alternatives for pain, discomfort and relaxation are growing in popularity. Massage therapists are becoming

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By Deborah Meza

commonplace at medical clinics due to the positive impact the practice has on patients. Larger hotel resorts often include a spa in their amenities due to customer demand.

Begin your journey today into this ancient art of healing.

Deborah Meza is a licensed aesthetician, as well as a massage therapist, medical skin care and laser technician and Ideal Protein coach with the Woman’s Clinic P.A. in Gulfport.

GOOD REASONS TO GET A MASSAGE * Relieving stress * Relieving sciatica pain *Relieving postoperative pain * Reducing anxiety * Managing lower back pain * Helping fibromyalgia pain * Reducing muscle tension and pain * Enhancing exercise performance * Relieving tension headaches *Sleeping better * Easing depression symptoms * Improving cardiovascular health * Reducing osteoarthritis pain * Decreasing rheumatoid arthritis pain * Promoting relaxation

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Facing death, embracing life Gulfport stroke survivor never takes a day for granted Ginger Duease is grateful to be alive.

On April 8, 2018, the teacher, coach and Gulfport resident was walking out the door, bound for the gym, when she felt dizzy and her eyesight went blurry. She assumed she simply was tired after returning from vacation the night before — until she fell to the floor. Suddenly, the right side of her body was paralyzed.

“A friend of mine was in the house, and I somehow crawled with just my left arm and left leg into the bedroom,” Duease recalls. “I could not speak, so I could not yell for her.”

Realizing something was wrong, Duease’s friend, Belinda Creel, rushed her to Garden Park Medical Center in Gulfport. Local doctors determined she needed to get to New Orleans as soon as possible, and she was transported by ambulance rather than helicopter due to bad weather.

Duease received the clot-busting drug tPA with 30 minutes of arriving at the ER, and surgeons at Tulane Medical Center removed the rest of the life-threatening blockage.

“During a stroke, we say that time is brain because up to two million brain cells can die per minute,” according to Dr. Michael Wilson of Garden Park Medical Center. “Ginger had classic stroke symptoms, which is why we initiated our video conferencing with the Tulane stroke specialists right away.” Wilson coordinated Duease’s care with Tulane Stroke Program Medical Director Dr. Justin Salerian.

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A college basketball player and self-described “big fitness person” in her 40s, Duease was not a likely candidate for a health crisis. She never imagined a stroke could happen to her — let alone the sort that kills most patients or leaves them permanently disabled. Duease was walking and talking soon after surgery, which doctors attributed to her exceptional physical condition.

“All my life, I have never given up on anything, and this was something I was not giving up on,” she says. “I never want to lose at anything, from races to basketball games.”

Duease also credits her quick recovery to God and the support of her loved ones, making special mention of the friend who saved her life. She now views every day as a gift and recognizes that “nothing is promised.”

“I work harder at everything I do, and I always try to be the best person I can be,” she says. “Best coach, best friend, best daughter — I want to be all of those things.”

Advised to “take it easy” as she recuperated, Duease was back to work within days of leaving the hospital — and she was even more eager to resume her workouts. She ran her first 5K since the stroke in October, and in February, she is signed up for the Spartan race in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a three-mile course with over 30 obstacles. However, her ultimate goal is to appear on a television series notorious for testing competitors’ strength and stamina.

“If anyone has any connections,

please help me out!” Duease says. “’[American] Ninja Warrior,’ here I come!”

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SHOPPING & BEAUTY

By Jennifer Gentile

Sentimental smells

Robin’s Nest in the Pass debuts signature candle line Her family and upbringing figure prominently in her Pass Christian store.

Now Dorothy Roberts, owner of Robin’s Nest in the Pass, has announced that she is honoring those ties further with a line of signature candles. Roberts, sister of Good Morning America personality Robin Roberts and retired New Orleans-based anchorwoman Sally-Ann Roberts, developed the signature scents with Chuck Underwood of Waveland Candle Company. “[Underwood’s] passion for creating goat milk products was born out of necessity due to his sensitive skin issues,” Roberts says. “I’m happy to partner with him because he’s very eager to grow his company and was excited to assist me.”

Underwood’s company specializes in natural, eco-friendly soy candles and melts, goat milk soaps and lotions, bath salts and fizzy bombs. For this collaboration, he said he took Roberts’s ideas and “ran with them.”

“She’s already ready for her third order in two weeks’ time,” says Underwood, whose shop is located on Nicholson Avenue in Waveland. As for why the scents have proven so popular,

he adds, “I’d like to think it was because of Dorothy and I working together.”

One of the fragrances, called Sisters Three, is a tribute to her beloved siblings and the bond they share.

“One of Robin’s favorite fragrances is lemongrass, so it was a natural thing to name Sisters Three with this scent,” she says. The Nest combines notes of lavender and sage, which Roberts chose for their calming properties.

Finally, The Pass, which Roberts describes as a “cool, clean scent,” features a schooner on the label.

“The sailboat image plays homage to our town, which is considered the birthplace of yachting,” she explains.

Dorothy and Underwood already have plans to extend their partnership, and they say more scents likely are forthcoming — including one named “the Colonel” to honor the legacy of the sisters’ father, the late Lawrence E. Roberts.

“Dorothy is a delight to work with, and I look forward to working with her for a long, long time,” Underwood says.

“The sky’s the limit.”

ROBIN’S NEST IN THE PASS 255 Davis Ave., Pass Christian (228) 222-4863 | robinsnestinthepass.com https://www.facebook.com/robinsnestinthepass Instagram: Robin’s Nest in the Pass

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Savannah & Co. brings modern, fresh approach to hair

By Jennifer Gentile

S

avannah & Co. in Ocean Springs is like no other salon on the Gulf Coast, its owner believes.

“We have a very eclectic, retro, relaxed atmosphere about us, and we have a very friendly team that prides themselves on their continued education and being up to date with industry trends,” says Savannah Pugsley McMillin, who launched the business in September of 2018. “We focus on the overall health and wellness of hair, classic lighting and coloring techniques and emerging trends in the industry with regard to cut and color.”

A seasoned cosmetologist, McMillin apprenticed and worked at salons in Gulfport before opening her own establishment last year in D’Iberville. She and the stylists outgrew the space and relocated to Government Street, a spot chosen “because we wanted to be a 90

January-February 2019

part of the vibrant community and our existing client base.”

“I was visiting Marina Cottage Soap Co. and the owner, a client of mine, told me about the store across the street for rent,” McMillin recalls. “It is absolutely perfect for our needs, [and] it did not require a lot of work to get it ready.” Savannah and Co. was operating after only a month of refurbishment.

The salon specializes in services such as cut and color, including the freehand balayage highlighting technique, as well as Keratin and smoothing treatments, blowouts, updos, extensions, eyelash extensions, brow tinting, makeup and waxing. Savannah & Co. patrons generally are men and women ages 16 and up seeking a modern, fresh and creative experience, according to McMillin. However, she doesn’t see the salon having a “typical client,” as each one comes with unique wants, needs and personal style.

“Each and every one of our clients is beautiful in [his or her] own way, and [each walks] into our doors with

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914 Washington Avenue Downtown Ocean Springs Follow us on

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www.gcwmultimedia.com

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amazing, funny and sometimes sad stories, which makes some very interesting days,” McMillin says. “Our vocation is an engaging craft as we watch them walk out even more stunning than when they arrived.”

McMillin herself was drawn to the industry from a young age, as she enjoyed playing with her own hair. However, as an adult, her motivations are much different.

“What drove me to this level of wanting to succeed was the birth of my daughter and being able to be the best I could be for her,” McMillin explains.

As Savannah & Co. becomes more established, the owner hopes for continued growth, increased charitable involvement and the greatest prosperity possible for its stylists. Overall, she is looking forward to seeing where the coming years take the salon.

“We are really just getting started,” she says, “and we’re so looking forward to servicing the Gulf Coast for years to come.”

IF YOU GO 1306 Government St., Suite 3 Ocean Springs Tuesday-Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. www.savannahandcosalon.com www.facebook.com/savvypugs (228) 218-5129

THE ROSE COTTAGE

When nature can use a little help.

Enjoy the Serenity OF OLD TOWN

BAY ST. LOUIS

Convenience and Comfort, Charming 2 Bedroom 2 Bath Cottage Sleeps up to 6 Comfortably

Microblading & Massage Therapy Tiffany Batey, Owner MSLMT#469 - Gulf Coast Native text/message/call

(228) 547-4411 1301 25th Ave. | 2B | Gulfport, MS 92

January-February 2019

Walking Distance of the Beach, Shopping and Restaurants ALL THE COMFORTS OF HOME: Cable Television | Internet | Washer & Dryer | Hardwood Floors Bar-B-Q Grill | Large Fenced Yard | Covered Carport Kitchen Equipped for Cooking | Dining Room Wrap-around Open Deck for Catching Some Sun Golf Carts or Bicycle Rentals Available

135 DEMONTLUZIN AVE. | BAY ST. LOUIS, MS

www.vrbo.com/497992 | Manieri Real Estate – 228-466-4793

A Gallery Gift Shop Celebrating the Creative Spirit!

Gather your girls for

“My Dee Dee has lots of very pretty things in her shop.

She says I can’t touch them but you can come buy them!”

By Natalea Thomson

Ah, Valentine’s Day. It can make your heart sing ... or sometimes sink. It’s that time of year when rows of candied hearts and boxes of chocolate stare at you longingly from the aisles at the supermarket, and bouquets of flowers either lift your spirits or induce panic.

This year, turn your attention toward something guaranteed to make you smile: Galentine’s Day! Famously referenced by Amy Poehler’s character on “Parks and Recreation,” Galentine’s Day is a time reserved for ladies celebrating ladies, honoring female friendship and camaraderie: “It’s like Lilith Fair, minus the angst — plus frittatas.”

This February, the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art is hosting its second annual Galentine’s Day event, Bubbles and Bonbons: A Galentine’s Affair, on Friday, Feb. 8, from 6-8 p.m. Enjoy an evening tasting select wines and sampling sweet and savory delicacies from the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s finest restaurants.

Proceeds from this ladies’ night out will benefit the museum’s children’s exhibitions gallery, located in the Mississippi Sound Welcome Center. OOMA views art as a path that leads to self-reflection, creative problem solving and social change; it creates dynamic and profound interactions that shape personal identities and strengthens our Gulf Coast community.

We are dedicated to providing access to creative learning for all children in our community via interactive art exhibits and educational programs.

Alongside presenting sponsor Gulf Coast Woman Magazine, we ask you to join us in this effort!

Gather your gal pals for a Galentine’s night to commemorate and celebrate your female friendships! Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased online at https://www.georgeohr.org/museum-store/ or by calling (228) 374-5547.

Owner Dorothy Roberts with her granddaughter.

SHOP ONLINE

www.robinsnestinthepass.com

distinctive jewelry art gifts

255 Davis Ave., Pass Christian, MS 39571 www.RobinsNestinthePass.com 228.222.4863

Store hours

Mon-Fri, 10-5; Sat. 10-4 Sun. 12:30-4 (months September to December)

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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The spring fashion trends you NEED now SHADES OF YELLOW The color for 2019 is yellow, gold or anything in the yellow color family. This is my favorite color, so I am overthe-moon happy to see yellow become a cult favorite of the fashionista crowd.

ALWAYS BET ON BLACK Will we ever see the end of black? Probably not in my lifetime. For 2019, designers choose to use black in interesting textures and patterns. However, I prefer my black with a bold color — and you should, too. Pair a black tank and black slacks with a bright fuchsia jacket. Head-to-toe black is so 1990. Vogue editor Anna Wintour always wears color, and so should you.

RETURN OF THE BIG, BOXY BLAZER` Once called the boyfriend jacket, it is back again — but this time with big, exaggerated, pointed shoulders with a feminine slant. This look was featured from Louis Vuitton to Givenchy. You could say it was mannish, but the loose fit looks good on any body type.

IT’S BACK, THE MINI Does anyone really need a minidress? If you’ve got great legs, go for it. If you are like me and were around for the first mini-dress in the 60s,

By Brenda Blount you are so over it for 2019. Donatella Versace wants to put you in a mini-dress for 2019. Who am I to argue with Donatella?

BEIGE, BEIGE, AND MORE BEIGE Does anyone really look good in beige? Head-to-toe beige in coffee, camel, cinnamon and chestnut all were shown at the Burberry show. A little beige goes a long way, just like head-to-toe black. Add some color to this look.

THE THREE S’S — SILKY SATIN SUITING This look is the update you need — silky satins rendered in soft whites, beiges or pastels. The look is rich and cool.

Pair a satin jacket with a pencil skirt or cigarette pants for an ultra-cool and sophisticated look.

And there you have it! Use with caution, and remember —keep it chic.

Brenda Blount, of A Better You Image Transformation, is a seasoned retail and fashion merchandising executive, image consultant, pageant coach and former model with more than 30 years’ experience in the retail industry. Find out more about her at http://muchbetteru.com.

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OPEN MONDAYS

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ALL OVER COLOR AND CUT $85 WALK-INS WELCOME

with select stylists

SPA PEDICURE | SHELLAC NAILS | POWDER COATING Alexander Deeks/Owner | Master Stylist/Color Specialist 1115 Cowan Rd. | Gulfport, MS 39507 | 228-896-3352 | www.salonalexanders.com www.gcwmultimedia.com 95

DOWNTOWN OCEAN SPRINGS 1000-B Government Street Ocean Springs, MS

228-215-1203 @buycharisma Photo by: Meagan Delia Photography

your appointment is scheduled for your appointment is sch

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your appointment is scheduled for your appointment is sch 3950 1308 college st.college | gulfport, 1308 st. ms gulfpor polishedblowoutandbeautybar.com 228.2 228.206.5465 | 850.276.0048 polishedblowoutandbeautybar.c salon | spa

3950 1308 college st.HOLLINGSWORTH, | gulfport, ms college st. gulfpor by1308 RACHAEL owner/stylist Rachael Hollingsworth | Owner/Stylist PINTR FACEBOOK TWITTER INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK TWITT INSTAGRAM polishedblowoutandbeautybar.com 228.2 228.206.5465 | 850.276.0048 polishedblowoutandbeautybar.c Cuts | Color | Extensions | MakeUp | Lashes | Nails | Waxing 1308 College St. | Gulfport, MS | 228.206.5465

INSTAGRAM 96

January-February 2019

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Wedding & Party Decorating by Chez Charles www.gcwmultimedia.com

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g n i l l i Sp

her secret

Jamiee Dorris, YouTube and TV show

host and producer, lets us peek inside her vanity and daily routine. Here are the products she relies on to keep her looking polished and camera ready.

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1. Batiste Dry Shampoo — I use this almost every day to give my hair volume, lighten the roots and extend the time between washing and curling.

2. Australian Gold, Botanical Face Sunscreen 50 SPF — Sunscreen is an absolute must each day. I do not leave home without it on my face. I love this brand because it’s made with zinc yet has a color tint that doesn’t leave my skin paler than it already is!

3. Green Cream — This is my Godsend. I use it year round at night to fight aging and acne. It is awesome, but it takes some getting used to. Because it’s a retinol, you have to use sunscreen with it to protect your skin.

4. Victoria’s Secret Scandalous - I just like the name. It makes me feel the way I secretly desire — and it smells good, too.

5. Timeless Coenzyme Q10 Serum — I use it nightly to make my skin silky soft. It’s supposed to help with aging skin.

6. Mac Mineralized Blush in Petal Power — Blush gives me the best girlish glow and THIS shade has a gold shimmer. I use it for both my cheeks and my eyeshadow.

7. Mac Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo — I love bright lipstick, and this one by Mac is terrific. It’s classic, timeless and looks great on just about anyone.

SHE IS BACK FROM NORTH CAROLINA!

The talented and creative Debora Mauser will be here in March 2019 teaching some amazing classes in Water Casting, Rustic Relic Ring, Cuff with Fused Overlay & Stones, Dew Drop Pendant, and Stacker Rings with Tube Setting.

REGISTER TODAY BECAUSE HER CLASSES FILL UP FAST. If you are looking to Start a New Career or just do something fun and different go to our website and look at our upcoming classes. We teach the art of making jewelry using copper, brass, silver and so much more.

PRIVATE PARTY/CLASS ARE AVAILABLE FOR THAT SPECIAL OCCASION (birthdays, promotions, girls/guys night out, etc.) with your family, friends, or coworkers by making beautiful jewelry.

Call 228-864-9138 to setup a private party/class.

CLASSES OFFERED:

Enameling on metal | Etching on metal | Fold Forming | Riveting | Soldering Fused Glass | Silk Scarf Dying | Metalsmithing | Precious Metal Clay (PMC) Hydraulic Press Texturing | Beading and so much more

www.sasbydesign.net CALL 228-864-9138 SAS by Design Studio is located in Long Beach, MS tel: 228-864-9138 | web: www.sasbydesign.net | email: sasbydesign@aol.com facebook: SAS by Design Studio | Etsy: www.sasbydesign.etsy.com

228.832.2875 (curl) • antoniansalon.com

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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Preemie - Size 16 Boys & Girls Clothing Accessories - Gifts

1306 Government St. Suite 1 Ocean Springs

228.875.1794 M-F 10-5 | Sat-10-3

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228-344-3393 | 126 MAIN STREET | BAY ST. LOUIS | WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/BIJOUBEL 100

January-February 2019

900 Washington Avenue Downtown Ocean Springs 228-327-9191

FOR THE EXTRAORDINARILY UNIQUE, ONCE IN A LIFETIME YOU DESERVE! Cut - Color - Balayage - Vivid - Natural Keratin - Blowouts - Updos - Extensions Eye Lashes - Brow Tinting - Makeup - SFX - Wax 1306 Government Street, Suite 3 | Ocean Springs, MS 39564

228.365.9340 Tuesday - Friday 9am - 6pm | Saturday 9am - 3pm www.gcwmultimedia.com

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For makeup success, do Which comes first, the chicken or the egg? I know some can feel just as perplexed by that riddle as they are with their daily makeup routine.

I don’t know about the chicken, but I do know that your eye makeup should come first. This simple change in your routine will help with a handful of frustrations when it comes to conquering that daily shimmer or a dark smoky eye.

EYE PRIMER Purpose: To hold your eye makeup all day and keep it from transferring or creasing.

This is the first thing you want to do. Apply a thin layer of primer from the lash line and blend up past your crease. Be cautious of using your concealer, as some concealers do not set and can still cause product to crease and fade.

PRODUCT SUGGESTION: Painterly Paint Pot by MAC Cosmetics EYESHADOW Purpose: Eyeshadow can help contour your eye shape, brighten

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first things first

your eye color and help express your personality with fun colors and shimmers.

Make sure you apply your matte eyeshadows first, and then apply any kind of glitters and shimmers after.

This gives the eye dimension and keeps the textures from mixing.

PRODUCT SUGGESTION: Anastasia Beverly Hills Eyeshadow EYELINER Purpose: Eyeliner creates the illusion of fuller eyelashes.

For a strong pop of eyeliner, apply this product when you are completely done with shadows. If you are wanting a smudgy or soft eyeliner affect, you can apply the liner before or after your eyeshadow application.

Make sure you “aim for the lash line” to ensure the liner is snug against your lashes. This will establish the look of fuller lashes.

PRODUCT SUGGESTION: Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil

EYELASHES Purpose: To open the eyes and pull the look together.

Now is the time to apply false lashes by Jackie Merlau if you are going to Jmerlaumakeup.com do so. If you are just adding the final touch of mascara or wanting to add mascara to false lashes, wait to do that at the very end of your full makeup application.

Mascara also will help brush away any powders and foundation that may settle on your lashes.

PRODUCT SUGGESTION: Maybelline Lash Stiletto CLEAN UP Purpose: You will need a clean canvas before you apply your foundation or powder.

Take a gentle makeup wipe, and be sure to wipe away all the fallout under your eye.

PRODUCT SUGGESTION: Neutrogena Cleansing Wipes

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Jerika’s top 2019 picks

It’s a new year, which means a new you! A growing trend is eating healthier, and you can do that by purchasing meal preps or even making your own. I am always on the go, and it is very difficult to make time in

by Jerika Vincent the kitchen. Think before you drive into the fast food restaurant, and think healthy!

Aside from a healthy lifestyle, here’s what else I’m loving going into 2019: FAVORITE FASHION TREND: Stay cool during the new year with a black leather jacket and high boots.

FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCT/TOOL: Self-Tan Classic Bronzing Mousse

FASHION FORWARD Keep up with the hottest fashions and fashionable people on my television show “Jerika’s Showcase!”

“I enjoy being around people who inspire me.

I love the camera and I truly connect with people on and off camera … . I do compete with myself in every way. That’s what keeps me moving. But I believe in others succeeding, and I look for ways to help them succeed.”

Watch “Jerika’s Showcase” WLOX ABC - SUNDAYS 4:30 P.M.

Find us on Facebook, Instagram, SnapChat and YouTube Follow Jerika: 104

@jerikasshowcase

January-February 2019

FAVORITE BOOK/MOVIE: Movie: My favorite TV Series on Netflix is “Black List.” Also, my other favorite movie other than “Step Brothers” is “Armageddon” because Ben Affleck is in it.

FAVORITE BEAUTY TREND: My favorite beauty trend is gel nails. I have my nails done every three weeks and love how the gel nails stay on for a long period of time.

Also, the gel is perfect for someone who is always on the go and doesn’t have time to constantly paint her nails.

FAVORITE GADGET/PRODUCT: Olay night cream — I use this product every night before bedtime.

FAVORITE CELEBRITY: Lucy Hale — she is a friend of mine, and I loved how she treated others on set while I worked on the TV show “Pretty Little Liars.” Lucy was very sweet to all of the extras and always cares for her fans.

WATCH JERIKA’S SHOWCASE WLOX ABC Sundays at 4:30 p.m Snap Chat: Jerikasfs; Instagram: Jerikas_ Showacse; Facebook: Jerika’s Showcase Twitter: Jerikas_Showacse

PROTEIN – LOW CARB GLUTEN FREE - KETO WEEKLY MEALS MADE FRESH FOR YOU!

WALK-INS WELCOME AND CHOOSE READY MADE ITEMS IN OUR COOLER OR WATCH YOUR MEAL BEING PREPARED.

MEALS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP OR DELIVERY ON TUESDAYS

$70 Per Week

Simple Solution Meal Plan 1000 calories, 56 grams of protein, 72 net carbs 5 Breakfast, 5 Lunches, 5 Salads & 5 Dinners @ $4.66 per meal

$95 Per Week

Keto and Gluten Free Meal Plan 1600-2400 Calories, 120 grams of protein, 90 grams of fat, 25 or less net carbs

$100 Per Week

Simple Solution Protein Pack Plan 1750 calories, 112 grams of protein, 72 net carbs

Healthy Meal Plan Add Ons

Veggies Snack Pack - $12.50 Assorted raw veggies with dip Avg: 250 calories, 8 net carbs, 7 grams of protein per day

Fruit Pack - $12.50 Dessert Pack - $12.50* Apples with (*not gluten free) peanut butter & cheese Avg: 175 calories, Avg: 233 calories, 12 net carbs, 21 net carbs, 7 grams of protein per day 7 grams of protein per day

D E S S E R T S A R E F R E E W H E N YO U O R D E R 2 M E A L P L A N S .

MENTION AD AND RECEIVE A FREE DESSERT PACK WITH YOUR FIRST ORDER 295 US-90 #13 | Bay St Louis | (228) 586-3635 www.zonemealstogo.com

Shop Wild Gypsy Boutique for that UNIQUE MARDI GRAS and VALENTINE TEE. Early Spring will be arriving daily in January!

J We Carry:  Simply Southern  Natural Life  Glister & Original Mermaid  Super Cool Tees  Finchberry Soaps

• R E B E C C A M I N K O F F • F I F T E E N T W E N T Y • M O T H E R D E N I M • J O I E • AT M

MEAL PLANS

N ATA L I E B • M I L LY • D E E K E L L E R T I B I • L O E F F L E R R A N D A L L • S H A L L A W I S TA • K E L LY W Y N N E • R A M Y B R O O K •

ZONE MEALS TO GO

 Bathbombs, Candles & Gifts  Victoria Lynn  Yellow Box  Complimentary Gift Wrap

228-596-7330 | 131 Main Street | Bay St. Louis

Wildgypsyboutiqueusa.com

The Shoppes at Mary Mahoney’s 110 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi 228-818-3233 www.gcwmultimedia.com

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By Jennifer Gentile

Feeling better begins with a ‘Theory’ Local business enhances wellness with massage, microblading Brow & Body Theory is not just the name of a Gulfport business, but a good synopsis of what it offers. “’Brow’ because I do microblading, ‘body’ because I attend the muscles,” says proprietor Tiffany Batey. “’Theory’ because you’re getting my 20plus years of experience, my take on what’s going on with your muscles.”

A Long Beach native, Batey graduated from massage school in 1997 and spent a couple of years working aboard a cruise ship. She returned to the area in 2001, she says, “to build my business here on the Coast.”

That goal was achieved in July of 2018 when Batey located in downtown Gulfport, next to Half Shell Oyster House. “(There’s) lots of energy happening downtown right now!” she exclaims.

Brow & Body Theory’s best-selling products and services include massages, scrubs and microblading.

Patrons also can purchase essential oils and gift certificates.

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“My typical customers are local professionals who budget their time and money to come see me,” Batey says. “I’m so thankful they value my skills.”

After microblading — a technique whereby pigment is applied to the skin with a handheld tool — clients can ditch their brow makeup. One online reviewer exclaimed “I feel like a new person!” after a visit to Brow & Body Theory, and another praised how Batey “makes you feel so comfortable and at ease.”

Patients of many medical conditions, including anxiety, sports injuries, digestive disorders, joint pain and chronic headaches, have found relief through massage. The practice has proven physical and emotional benefits, which Batey is pleased to provide to her clientele. Brow & Body Theory has packages available for expectant mothers, as well as those interested in relaxing massage, deep tissue therapy and more.

“Being able to help them manage their physical pain through my touch … is so rewarding,” she says.

IF YOU GO 1301 25th Ave., 2B, Gulfport Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Instagram: Browbodytheory Facebook: Brow & Body Theory (228) 547-4411 Brow & Body Theory’s Facebook page states that the business “strives for perfection” — and wants all customers to leave feeling their best. As a relatively new entrepreneur, Batey says she hopes to make everyone who believed in her proud — and to succeed and thrive in an area she values dearly.

“I’m from the Gulf Coast; this is my home,” she says. “I love it, and I want to be a part of what makes this Coast great.”

Kristen McCaleb, Owner; Nicole Myrick, Assistant

We Carry Goats Milk Soaps, Bathbombs, & Lotions Sugar Scrubs Bubble Bars Cupcake Bathbombs Kids Soaps Men’s Bath Products & More!

Featuring Southern Creations Jewelery Native Heart Design Paintings, Messy Missy’s Boutique (Woman’s Clothing) & Irene’s Stitches & Vinyl Creations

MENTION THIS AD AND RECEIVE 15% OFF ANY SERVICE WE PROVIDE. Hair | Facials | Waxing | Massage

Swarovski hand made jewelry made by Nicole Myrick

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Renewing Touch Therapies Spa Packages | Facials Relaxing and Specialty Massage Packages Holistic Wellness Shop Coming Soon Open Tuesday – Saturday 228-231-1091 | 212 Main Street | Suite B | Bay St. Louis LMT #1847

12450 Shortcut Rd, Suite D • Biloxi • 228.357.1931

WE BRING OUT THE BEST IN YOU

2608 13th St., Unit B. | Gulfport | 228-863-8133

We do offer wholesale and birthday parties!

FASHION BOUTIQUE

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SIZES 0 - 5X 2905 25TH AVENUE, STE. A2 | GULFPORT | 228-284-1616 visit our website ELEMFASHIONS.COM www.gcwmultimedia.com

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By Dr. Stephanie Barnes

Get realabout New Year’s resolutions

Let’s be real. It is estimated that 80 percent of New Year’s resolutions don’t even make it past the second week of February. That means most people really only make January resolutions.

They are not really committed, just following a New Year’s tradition that soon becomes Auld Lang Syne — loosely translated to “days gone by.”

It’s really time to stop making New Year’s resolutions.

DITCH THE LIST Honestly, you don’t need a new year to create a new life. Jan. 1 is a convenient starting date, but there’s no time like today to begin the changes you need to transform your life. Ditch the New Year’s resolutions and begin the “new you” decisions.

Resolutions by definition are “a firm decision to do or not to do something.” However, we often shortchange this act by making them aspirational.

A true decision is a powerful action. It is a choice to cut off all options but the one that leads to your goal. A true decision is laser focused on the outcome.

This means choosing to do or not to do actions that only will result in the new direction. It’s like putting blinders on, but this time, these blinders block out procrastination, fear, anxiety and the ubiquitous option to quit.

{

}

Your decisions need a strategy.

An aspiration is just mere recitation of what you wish you could do. A strategy is a detailed road map for how you will do it. You need these critical components: a mindset fixed firmly on the desired outcome, a detailed layout of the needed resources, anticipated obstacles, critical success

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factors, solutions for overcoming the obstacles and a blueprint of how it all works together. This way, you are not navigating aimlessly, but following a customized map.

DON’T START THE NEW YEAR ALONE Let’s face it — you need help. Even the Lone Ranger did not work alone.

We also need to be real that you are more accountable to others than you are to yourself.

Think about how you will show up for someone else and skip out on yourself. Use that to your advantage and enlist help in getting your goals accomplished. You can engage an accountability partner, coach or group of people going in the same direction. Don’t recruit people who are not really going to hold you accountable. You need a partnership with someone who will not let you give up and will give you just the right mix of encouragement, criticism and coaching to keep you headed in the right direction.

READ YOUR PLAN EVERY DAY Seriously, review it daily. Write up your plan and publish it. Put it on your mirror. Record it and listen to it.

Have it as your screensaver. Put it in your wallet. Reviewing your plan daily tunes your mind to the frequency of progress. It conditions your mind to actually believe that you should be doing something. It becomes your conscience telling you that you need to keep moving when you want to quit. It becomes your motivator, reminding you of how far you’ve

SUCCESS

come. It becomes the celebration singing your praises of what you have actually achieved. If you really want positive reinforcement, share the list with someone else. Publication is the best accountability tool. No one really wants the embarrassment of admitting that they did not do what they said they would do.

DON’T BE RIDICULOUS Don’t set yourself up for failure by setting a goal you can't reach. There are stretch goals, and there are “you’ve gotta be kidding me” goals. We often can’t keep our resolutions because we plan to go from couch potato to marathon runner in 30 days. Sometimes that is a literal goal. The fact is that you’ve got to break your goals into reasonable increments that allow you to build up the strength, discipline and stamina to have sustained performance. Research what it really takes to accomplish the goal so you can appropriately plan out what works for you. Challenge yourself to do more, but don’t push yourself to the breaking point where you can’t reasonably achieve the goal.

RESOLUTIONS CONTINUED ON P. 112

MAKE

It’s the new year, and I hope your business is off to a great start. I wish you success as you execute your plan to achieve your goals for the year. Wait — you have a plan, don’t you?!

As a business coach, my primary goal is helping business leaders get what they want from their business. In most cases, that includes growth (almost all business problems can be solved with more revenue).

Yet I’m always surprised how many companies don’t have a great marketing strategy. You may be asking if you really need a marketing strategy, or you may ask what exactly is a marketing strategy. My favorite description of a marketing strategy comes from Allan Dib. It goes like this: If you own a circus, and you paint a big sign to let everyone know your circus is coming to town, that’s advertising. If you put that sign on the back of an elephant and walk it through

MARKETING A PRIORITY

town, that’s promotion. If the elephant walks through the mayor’s flowerbeds, and it’s covered by the local news, that’s publicity. If the mayor laughs about it, that’s PR (public relations).

If everyone comes to the circus and buys from your booths, that’s sales. And if all of this was planned, that’s marketing!

So how do we go about creating a marketing strategy? It’s simple; just answer these seven questions:

QUESTION 3 What’s different about you? This can be called your unique selling proposition (USP), and it should answer the “why do my customers hire me?” question.

QUESTION 1 What needs to happen to achieve our revenue and profit goals for the year? Do we need 10 new customers or 10,000?

QUESTION 5 How will we capture and nurture our leads? You need a system!

QUESTION 2 What does our ideal customer look like (this is your target market)? Think about demographics, geography, and psychographics.

QUESTION 4 What tools will we use to reach our target market?

Think about outside sales, social media, advertising, networking, cold-calling, etc.

QUESTION 6 How will we convert our leads into paying customers?

QUESTION 7 How will we create raving fans? Focus on your customer’s experience.

This will lead to more referrals.

By Ryan Giles To put this into perspective, remember these two quotes: “Doing business without marketing is like winking at a girl in the dark. You know what you’re doing, but no one else does.” — Steuart Henderson Britt “Before the sale, they only know how good your marketing is.” — Robin Robins Need help with your marketing strategy? Give Ryan a call. Ryan Giles is a CEO, professional EOS implementer, coach and author.

He can be reached at Ryan@ TractionStrong.com or (504) 500-1640.

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SO YOU KNOW LEADERSHIP JACKSON COUNTY ALUMNI REUNION

The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce hosted Leadership Jackson County alumni and guests at the 2018 Leadership Jackson County Alumni Reunion on Nov. 13. The gathering was held at Singing River Yacht Club in Pascagoula, and attendees were invited to come network and enjoy appetizers, beverages (21 and older) and music.

Leadership Jackson County is celebrating its 28th anniversary. This program helps prepare current and emerging community leaders for leadership positions in the region, and it is directed by a standing committee of community leaders who are alumni of the program. The purpose is to provide a forum for and increase awareness of potential leaders by providing an intense, nine-month course encompassing a broad scope of community concerns. It fosters relationships, inspires stewardship and encourages self-discovery. Leadership Jackson County is designed to promote volunteer leadership resources within the community on a continuing basis.

Questions about the Leadership Jackson County Alumni Network or alumni reunion may be directed to Linda Johnson, vice president of operations for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, at JohnsonL@jcchamber.com or (228) 762-3391. Those wanting to join the Leadership Jackson County Class of 2019, contact Johnson or Yvette Barr, the director of membership communications for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, at Newsletter@jcchamber.com).

More information also is available online at www.jcchamber. com. Nominations for Leadership Jackson County Class of 2019 are now being accepted.

HANCOCK CHAMBER LAUNCHES NEW CUSTOMER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

The Hancock Chamber is introducing a new customer development program to promote member restaurants and connect members to grow their businesses. Each month, a different Hancock Chamber member restaurant will be featured during a Chamber Power Hour Lunch Break.

These meetings will be on the second Tuesday of each month from noon-1 p.m. at a different restaurant. As a member in good standing, restaurants will be included in a drawing to determine which ones will be featured during 2019. If a restaurant is not selected this year, they will be among the first to be included the following year.

“We think this is a great opportunity to promote our member restaurants and provide a relationship building opportunity for our members to grow their businesses too,” says Starr Chapman of Rum Kitchen.

For more information, contact Chapman at (504) 405-8628 or starrchapman7@gmail.com. To join the chamber, go to hancockchamber.org.

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LEADERSHIP HANCOCK CLASS LAUNCHES FUNDRAISER

Members of the 2017-2018 Leadership Hancock Class challenged the community to participate in LIFTOFF, a strength and endurance challenge held in November. Proceeds from the event will help launch the new Work Ready Mentor Program initiated by Leadership Hancock, an annual program of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce.

LIFTOFF participants could sign up for any number of challenges to include step-ups, pushups, kettlebel swings, lunges and sit-ups, overhead presses and more. Gift awards were valued at $500 for each of the five competitions.

Through this new and innovative mentorship program, class members will offer a positive influence to high school juniors in Hancock County by providing support, guidance, encouragement and direction for students who are looking for a career path.

“Working one-on-one with a mentor from the Hancock Leadership Class, participants will receive guidance on resume writing, phone and email etiquette and interview skills,” says class member James Buras.

After students graduate from high school, some will go on to participate in the apprenticeship component of the program. The Leadership Hancock Work Ready team will support apprentices through the job application process and help open employment doors in Hancock County.

Another goal of the program is to lower barriers for local business owners by alleviating the initial expense of training a new employee. The goal of the program is to pay half of the apprentice’s wages for three months to the business owner. After the three-month trial period is over, the employer can choose whether to fully employ the apprentice.

MCCARTHY RECRUITED TO RUN CIVIC CENTER IN FLORIDA

Linda McCarthy, general manager and assistant executive director of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce, has been selected as the director of the Port St. Lucie Civic Center in Florida. McCarthy has served the business community in her role with the chamber for the past seven years.

The Hancock Chamber hosted a reception in her honor at Bodega in Bay St. Louis on Nov. 20, and she began her new post Nov. 26.

“Linda has been a tremendous asset to our community and the Chamber,” Linda McCarthy said Tish Williams, executive director of the Hancock Chamber. “It is a rare opportunity when you can find someone with her talent, skills and passion to make a difference in her own hometown. The community is a better place to live thanks to her many accomplishments while serving on the staff of the chamber.”

SO YOU KNOW GUESS APPOINTED TO STATE COMMISSION ON MARINE RESOURCES

Gov. Phil Bryant has appointed Natalie Guess to the state Commission on Marine Resources representing nonprofit environmental organizations.

Guess will serve a four-year term that will end June 30, 2022. She will represent the nonprofit environmental organizations for the Commission on Marine Resources.

Guess is the executive director of Unmanned Coast and the Enterprise for Innovative Geospatial Solutions under the Magnolia Business Alliance. She is also a health and wellness coach and speaker. Guess sits on the board for the Hancock County Tourism Bureau, serves as an advisory board member for Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast and is a member of the Land Trust for the Mississippi Coastal Plains. She lives in Diamondhead with her husband, Eric, and son, Kai. “I am honored to be appointed to the Commission for the Department of Marine Resources by Governor Bryant,” Guess says. “My family and I enjoy everything our coastal environment has to offer, and I’m passionate about helping preserve its natural beauty for generations to come.”

Natalie Guess

HABITAT WOMEN BUILD 2019

Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast will have teams working on a local construction site (nicknamed the “Women Build House”) from March 19 through May 18. Teams of seven women (and men) will be raising $2,500 to go toward buying materials for the Women Build house.

Those teams that raise their funds then will have the opportunity to go out on the construction site and help build the home they sponsored.

Construction or home improvement experience isn’t necessary. However, Habitat will be hosting a workshop at Lowe’s titled “How to Properly and Safely Use Power Tools.”

The date for that workshop will be posted on https://hfhmgc. com/.

Habitat will provide resources to help builders raise their funds. The organization also will provide all tools, hardhats, a T-shirt and some other fun giveaways.

Those interested in leading or joining a team, or those who have questions or need assistance, can call Angela Singletary, volunteer specialist, at (228) 678-9110 or (228) 2434780. She also is available via email at asingletary@hfhmgc. org.

For corporate sponsorship opportunities, please contact Becky Ginn, major giving officer, at (228) 678-9100, ext.

1015, or by email at bginn@hfhmgc.org.

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Comeback Coolers creator earns national recognition

By Jennifer Gentile

From experience, Heather Eason knew how refreshing and comfortn so Ea ing a simple er th Hea drink could be in the midst of chaos. The feeling prompted her to start Comeback Coolers, a program that collects and fills coolers for victims of natural disasters across the country.

Fast food chain Hardee’s recently recognized Eason’s efforts, naming the Ocean Springs resident an “All Star” and awarding her a $10,000 grant to continue her project. After selecting five people from across the country who have gone above and beyond to serve, Hardee’s appealed to the public for help picking a sixth All Star.

The All Star program was created to salute hometown heroes “for their selflessness, bravery and commitment to giving back to their communities,” according to www.hardeesallstars. com. After Eason was chosen, Ocean Springs Mayor Shea Dobson proclaimed Nov. 6 “Heather Eason Day” and presented her with a key to the city.

“This is not anything I achieved on my own; in fact, all of it is impossible without a team of people from across the nation,” Eason told followers on her Facebook account. “If you have donated, packed coolers, decorated coolers, shared our information, collected supplies, written notes, delivered coolers or prayed for Comeback Coolers, you are part of the team.”

The week after Hurricane Katrina, Eason’s mother turned up with supplies such as appliances, cleaning products — and ice chests filled to bursting. That first sip of beer, Eason recalls, was also her first real step on the road to recovery.

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“In the heat of the day, my friends and I stopped for a minute and stood at the back of the U-Haul with tools in one hand and an ice-cold beer in the other as we looked at each others’ dirty faces and filthy clothes,” she has said.

“That first sip of beer made us feel a bit of normalcy, and we suddenly had hope that better days were ahead.”

Wanting to pay that gesture forward, Eason started asking people for their old coolers — as well as drinks, oranges, Wet Wipes and other items.

She also urged people to write words of encouragement on the donations.

Following a 2016 flood in Denham Springs, Louisiana, Eason and her sister delivered coolers to residents who had lost electricity and were forced to gut their homes.

“People cried as they told us their stories and thanked us for the trinket of love,” she recalled. “Over the course of two trips, we took 50 coolers to Denham Springs.”

The recipients were so touched that they packed coolers for storm victims in other states. In 2017, Eason noted, more than 200 went to Texas while another 250 went to Florida. Donations have poured in from as far afield as Colorado, Iowa, Nevada, Utah and Tennessee.

More recently, 278 coolers and 67 kids’ coolers went to North Carolina after Hurricane Florence, according to Eason, “but the neatest thing … is that 176 of those coolers came from people paying it forward in Vidor, Texas.”

Mayor Dobson noted that local residents know all too well how destructive hurricanes can be, and he commended Eason for her commitment to bettering the lives of those around her.

“It really is touching,” he said of Comeback Coolers. “It gives people the drive to keep going on in their darkest hours.”

RESOLUTIONS CONTINUED FROM P. 108 MEASURE IT TO MAKE IT Set a real goal, not an aspiration. A real goal is measurable in quantifiable terms. “I want to be rich” is aspirational. What does “rich” mean? I want to have a net worth of $100,000 is measurable. You can quantify $100,000. You can measure it, know when you’ve hit it and calculate how far away you are. “I want to be successful” is also aspirational. What does success mean? How will you know when you get there? Be sure to state your success goals in measurable terms. For every goal you set, identify at least one action that it takes to accomplish it. When you state your goals in action terms, it is easy to get moving.

MAKE IT COUNT Truthfully, we bail on our resolutions because they are not really that significant.

Set a goal that really means something to you. You need to understand the compelling reason for completion. How will your life change as a result of achieving your goal? How will your life suffer from staying the same? Rather than setting 50 million goals, set one to three. That’s right — one to three goals. Why? You can only focus on one direction. Human brains were not meant to multitask. Pick the most significant goals and laser focus on them. You always can set new ones when you finish.

You will get overwhelmed looking at a list of 20 things rather than focusing on a list of three things. Make it meaningful, and make it focused. And if you have 20 things you want to accomplish, break them down into quarters and focus on them in increments.

It’s time to get real about resolutions.

Don’t put the pressure on Jan. 1. Start acting on them now. Get yourself an accountability mechanism. Focus on what matters. Put more emphasis on action than on aspiration. Do something every day; it takes 21 days to form a habit. Set your plans in 30-day cycles, 21 days to form the habit and nine to make it stick. Statistics have proven that most resolutions only last about 30 days anyway. Use the momentum of the resolution power to make powerful moves towards your goals — 30 days at a time.

Stephanie D. Barnes is an attorney, author, speaker and career strategist. She can be reached at stephanie@drstephaniedbarnes. com, or visit www.drstephaniedbarnes.com.

CONGRATULATIONS, LEADERSHIP JACKSON COUNTY

Leadership Jackson County’s classes are once a month for nine months, but the impact lasts a lifetime. For 28 years, the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce-Main Street-Tourism Bureau have sponsored Leadership Jackson County. Together with an expansive network of distinguished alumni, Leadership Jackson County continues a proud tradition of connecting and inspiring leaders to strengthen Jackson County. Sessions focus on fundamental leadership principles, community awareness and leadership skill building. Since 1989, Leadership Jackson County has graduated over 747 community leaders.

This year’s graduates include: • Byron Keith Allred, Hancock Whitney Bank • Shannon Marie Barlow, Singing River Health System • Jeremy Douglas Bell, Jackson County Emergency Management • Christopher Patrick Brown, Ingalls Shipbuilding • Elizabeth Ann Chapuis, Chevron • Audrey Susan Chennault, First Chemical Corp.

• Valerie Rose Damazio, Jackson County Circuit Clerk • Katie Clark Davis, First Federal Savings & Loan • Dr. Melissa M. DeAngelo, Pascagoula-Gautier School District • Valerie Dedeaux, Jackson County Chamber of Commerce • James Michael Douglas, Compton Engineering, Inc. • Frank Allen Duke, Jackson County Fire District • William Hall Everitt, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College • Capt. Kevin William Finn, Gautier Fire Department • Nichole Noel Ford, Merchants & Marine Bank • Nicholas Lanier Gant, Brown, Mitchell & Alexander, Inc. • Shelby Gutherz Geboy, First Federal Savings & Loan • Darcie Jean Graham, The University of Southern Mississippi - Gulf Coast Research Laboratory • April Marie Havens Stennett, City of Gautier • Richard Stephen Hilsabeck, Regions Bank • Rachel Elizabeth Hinkel, Merchants & Marine Bank • Kleon Irving, Ingalls Shipbuilding • Sheila Humphrey Kowalewski, Ingalls Shipbuilding • Mayor Dane Maxwell, City of Pascagoula • Kevin J. Miller, The First - A National Banking Association Lindsay Jeanine Adkisson Mitchell, Ocean Springs Chamber

of Commerce-Main Street-Tourism Bureau • Tamara Susan Moore, Hilton Garden Inn Pascagoula • Christy Marie Myers, Singing River Health System • Destin Patrick O'Brien, Mississippi Power • Sean O'Grady, Chevron • Ronda Jane Powell, Jackson County Board of Supervisors • Billie Elaine Rogers, Charter Bank • Jodi Tate Ryder, Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA • Tommy Aaron Sessum, Chevron • Dale Shirley, Chevron • Christopher Gerard Skrmetti, Chevron • Tom Story, Jackson County Chancery Clerk • Maegan Velasquez, Singing River Health System • Ja'Leasa Nicole Walden, Moss Point School District • Boyd Fatherree West, Pascagoula-Gautier School District • Sheryl Melton Wolfe, Merchants & Marine Bank

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A

quote from writer Maya Angelou appears prominently on Karol Brandt’s vision board: “Courage allows the successful woman to fail and learn powerful lessons from failure. So that in the end, she did not fail at all.”

Brandt — executive casino host for Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, Amazon best-selling author and motivational speaker — concedes that at times, she has lost sight of the silver lining.

“I have put [Angelou’s] saying to the test personally with Hurricane Katrina, losing my business due to the storm, divorce, my weight gain and struggle with my weight and not making time for me,” Brandt says. “And during challenging professional times or making decisions to switch career paths, I relied on my support system, especially my mentors [and] my parents, and I am very grateful for their support.”

The Biloxi Beach resident, who hails from the New Orleans area, both speaks and writes about her personal journey, hoping to empower others through her experiences. She has shared her insights twice at the annual Women’s SUCCESS Conference — serving as a confidence panelist and talking about her weight loss book, “The Struggle Is Real.”

“My goal is to inspire, motivate and transform others to find their ‘why’ [and] make time for themselves so they, too, can go from struggle to success professionally and personally — all the while building that self confidence muscle to keep the positive momentum flowing every day,” Brandt says.

Opportunities in the hospitality industry took Brandt to Florida temporarily after college, but homesick for New Orleans, she returned to work as reservations manager for the Omni Royal Orleans. She later became director of promotions for WCKW 92.3FM, a rock station with an audience throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast and beyond.

“I produced the ‘Dogs on Hogs’ event for them, a charity motorcycle ride that quickly drew listeners and participation from Biloxi to Lafayette and over five years grew into a regional event,” Brandt says. “This would later prove to Novemeber-December 2018 114

be one of my biggest professional achievements to date.”

The experience inspired her to cofound Scooter Promotions with her then fiancé, which produced and publicized two major annual events: The Steel Pony Express Motorcycle Rally and Music Festival, an outdoor music gathering in New Orleans that drew 80,000 attendees and over 400 exhibitors over a thee-day period, and the Louisiana Bike Expo, a three-day indoor motorcycle show held at the Superdome.

Brandt calls Hurricane Katrina the “turning point of my life in every way,” and she moved to Houston briefly to try to start fresh. Stress from the storm and relocation drove her to seek Biloxi woman inspires with story of solace in food. losing weight, gaining hope “I don’t drink or smoke, and I did not

By Jennifer Gentile want to pick those unhealthy habits up again, so I ate my way through the pain helps her protege see her own talent and — the day-to-day uncertainly, not being potential. in my home, in my city,” Brandt recalls.

“My work ethic is very strong, my “It was a very trying time, and to see so drive and my passion are very visimany suffer through it just like me was ble, and I am committed to delivering very disheartening.” results for both the client and company,” Over the past 10 years, she has transBrandt says. “I am a leader and a cheerformed physically and mentally — losleader. I lead by example, and I encouring over 100 pounds and becoming a age my coworkers in all departments to passionate health and wellness advocate work hard and it will pay off.” and committed meal prepper.

When she’s not attending to guests at “I love the feeling of making time for the Scarlett Pearl, Brandt can be found ME and knowing that building muscle getting lost in a good book, taking a builds a stronger, more confident me in sunset walk with her dog, Shadows, every way,” Brandt says. “I also love to riding on the Biloxi Schooner or otherdo cardio and sweat it out on the Arch wise taking advantage of living by the trainer every day, and I love to swim in beach. She attributes her achievements the summer.” to grit, willpower, a positive attitude — Meeting LuAnn Pappas at Harrah’s and setting herself up for success with a New Orleans, where she started workvision board. ing in 2007, “helped develop me into “If I see it daily, I say it, believe it and the person I am today,” Brandt says take steps and work hard to achieve my — modeling leadership, discipline and goals … ,” she says. commitment to community. Brandt and her mentor now work together at the Scarlett Pearl, where Pappas still

The struggle is real — but surmountable

CHAMBER UPDATES: 2019

By Carla Todd Voda, IOM, president and CEO, Jackson County Chamber of Commerce The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, located in Pascagoula, has programs throughout the year that benefit organizations and individuals locally, regionally, nationally and internationally. The newest program is the international travel program the chamber has established through a partnership with Collette Travel Tours for a trip to Tuscany and the Italian Riviera from April 12-19. For more information, visit https://gateway. gocollette.com/link/912729 or call the chamber at (228) 762-3391.

Volunteers and staff are working toward goals this year for the chamber to accomplish together for the community through four issue manager groups: regional strategy, education, membership outreach and small business. This program is one of many exciting new opportunities for the chamber. The Taste of Jackson County is set for Feb. 21.

The 30th Jackson County Industrial Trade Show will be on March 19. Additional events include the ongoing Leadership Jackson County program, the 11th Annual ANCHOR Awards, the 29th Annual Explosion of Excellence Scholarship Program and many seminars, workshops, ribbon-cuttings and business after hours events. The chairman of the board of directors from October 2018 to September 2019 is Cedrick Hurd from Mississippi Power.

More information about the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce is available online at www.jcchamber.com and the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce business page on Facebook.

By Tish Williams, executive director, Hancock Chamber of Commerce The mission of every chamber is to serve, protect and promote its members. Our members are devoting their time and skills to empower our communities – and these efforts support all businesses and citizens in our county and across the Coast.

Everything we do has a purpose: to develop customers, increase income for area businesses, help businesses reduce expenses and recruit and retain skilled workers. The chamber provides far-reaching benefits to the communities we serve. It’s not just business after hours, ribbon cuttings, seminars, annual banquets and the golf tournament. For instance, Leadership Hancock is a training program that has graduated 450 citizens, providing leaders with skills to improve quality of life in the county.

The chamber’s relentless support of job growth through the Business Retention and Expansion Program is growing the customer base. Jobs mean customers to members of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce. And if one new customer becomes a new chamber member, every other new customer multiplies the return on your investment.

For a complete list of programs and events, visit www. hancockchamber.org.

By Tina Ross-Seamans, executive director Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce The Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce maintains a steady membership of around 900 members. They range from retired military and individuals to small business entrepreneurs,

nonprofits and medium- and large-sized companies. Our chamber does not have city, county or state boundaries; anyone is welcome to join our chamber. Two words that best describe our group are fun and affordable.

We offer the following networking and knowledge opportunities: Biloxi History www.gcwmultimedia.com

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Tina Ross-Seamans, executive director Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce

Cruises, Coffee Talk!, Meet & Eat, the Don Wylie Memorial Golf Tournament, Biloxian Made Good, Tourist for a Day tour, Boo on the Rue, an annual Christmas party and our annual membership meeting. The mayor of Biloxi is the keynote speaker for our annual, sold-out state of the city address luncheon.

We are a part of the “Preserve Biloxi” committee that plans the Preservation in May programs and the annual Old Biloxi Cemetery tours. We are a member of the “Original Krewe of Barkloxi” and are planning the third annual PAW-rade, scheduled for Feb. 24. We partnered with the Biloxi Police Department two years ago to help with sponsorships for the annual Law Enforcement Banquet. Tickets were sold for the banquet with the promotion tagline: “Give a Ticket to a Cop.” Additionally, the Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of

Commerce was awarded the 2017 Altus Community Support Trophy. The trophy, which is presented in partnership with the Altus Chamber of Commerce, goes to the Air Education and Training Command community that provides the best support to its local military installation. This national-level recognition highlights the mutually beneficial relationship between the local community and Keesler Air Force Base. Our chamber also supports several local groups and efforts such as Christmas on the Water, Boom Boom Committee, Veterans Day Parade and many more through free promotion of their fundraising events.

Check us out at www.biloxibayareachamber.org, “like” us on www.facebook.com/biloxibaychamber and reach us by phone at (228) 435-6149 or email at info@biloxibayareachamber.org.

By Adele Lyons, chief executive officer Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce is a membership organization comprised of businesses throughout the Gulf South. With over 940 members representing over 50,000 employees, we strive to improve the business climate through fostering leadership, advocating for businesses and providing information to the community. This is done through a range of events, including Economic Vibe, Professional Development, WE: Women Educating, Enriching & Engaging, Best Practices from the Boss, State of the County, Chamber After 5, and legislative briefings.

What’s new with the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber? Our Chamber Champs have become quite an active group who serve as our ambassadors. Champs attend ribbon cuttings, make new member visits while representing their companies and create new connections. If you are interested in becoming a Champ, contact membership coordinator Mei-Li Hernandez at (228) 604-0014 or mei@mscoastchamber.com. Also visit https://mscoastchamber.com/ to learn more about chamber opportunities.

The best way to learn about all the chamber has to offer is to attend Chamber 101. A morning session is scheduled for Feb. 7 from 8:30-9:30 a.m., followed by an afternoon session from 3:30-4:30 p.m.

By Cynthia Dobbs Sutton, executive director, Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce As a Great American Main Street community filled with art, culture and history, Ocean Springs is always growing — and it is our job at the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce-Main Street-Tourism Bureau to promote it all. With more than 200 shops, restaurants and galleries in Ocean Springs, we act as a voice for the business community and as the organizer of numerous town events and festivals, including the Peter Anderson Arts & Crafts Festival presented by Blue Moon. As a way to help our local businesses sustain and bring in revenue and economic vitality to the community, we work hard to bring a wonderful quality of life to those who work, live and play in Ocean Springs.

The manager of the Ocean Springs Visitor Center, the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce-Main Street-Tourism Bureau, welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors from all 50 states and 21 countries last year, and we expect a record number of

visitors in the coming year. Tourism is our business in Ocean Springs, and our local merchants are ready to serve.

We will be working on our annual tour guide soon, along with other marketing materials to help the community and visitors know more about what Ocean Springs has to offer.

From a new community website to planning for networking activities, our team is hard at work for the community. With most of the 2019 Business After Hours activities scheduled and Breakfast with the Mayor dates ready, the community calendar is filling up. To view upcoming events, see our calendar at www.oceanspringschamber.com/.

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MONEY

Take note of 2019 tax changes

January 2019 is the start of tax filing season after the first full year of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. At the time of this writing, the IRS was drafting the new form 1040 to accommodate the tax law changes.

The new form 1040 replaces the old

By Tina Perkins 1040, 1040A and 1040EZ. Essentially, the new 1040 is poster size and will be used by everyone who files. It consolidates many lines from the old 1040 into a single line. For example, schedule C and schedule E, which were reported on lines 12 and 17 of the old 1040 respectively for business and rental real estate incomes, now are reported on line 6 of the new 1040. Line 6 is then summarized on schedule 1 (another new form) by different income types. Schedules C and E still are needed to support the schedule 1. As you soon will see, most of the old required information still is required but presented differently.

Although the final form 1040 may differ slightly from the draft version, you can expect to see the following changes: FILING STATUS While there still are five different filing statuses (single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household and qualifying widow(er)), the new 1040 only requires that you select the filing status when the married filing jointly or single status is not applicable.

STANDARD DEDUCTION The taxpayer (generally the first person named on the return) will check the applicable boxes if he (1) can be claimed as a dependent by someone (2) was born before Jan. 2, 1954 or (3) is blind.

The spouse also checks the applicable boxes if the spouse (1) can be claimed as a dependent by someone (2) was born before Jan. 2, 1954, (3) is blind or (4) itemizes on a 118

January-February 2019

separate return or was a dual-status alien.

HEALTH CARE COVERAGE Since health care coverage still is mandatory for 2018, the new 1040 uses a “check the box” if you have full year coverage or are exempt. If you do not have full year coverage, a new schedule 4 “Other Taxes” is required.

DEPENDENTS Qualified credits per dependents taken on the return are notated in this section.

SIGNATURE The signature section is on page one of the new 1040.

INCOME The new 1040 has condensed lines for reporting income from wages, interest, dividends, retirement and social security. All other sources of income are summarized in the “Additional Income” section of the new form schedule 1 “Additional Income and Adjustments to Income.” The amounts reported on this Schedule 1 will be further supported by detailed schedules (e.g. schedules C, D, E and F).

ADJUSTMENTS TO INCOME These often are referred to as “above-the-line” deductions, though they technically are adjustments. These items are removed from the face of the 1040 and placed in the “Adjustments to Income” section of Schedule 1 “Additional Income and Adjustments to Income.” The “Additional Income and Adjustments to Income” sections will be netted before carrying to Form 1040 line 6.

STANDARD DEDUCTION OR ITEMIZED DEDUCTIONS Since the standard deductions for all filing statuses have

There is a new layer of schedules that summarizes information and helps to keep the face of the 1040 from looking cluttered and intimidating. changed, many will not itemize unless their itemized deductions are above their standard deduction. You still will complete Schedule A to itemize.

QUALIFIED BUSINESS INCOME DEDUCTION This is a real change to the tax law and not a mere relocation of reporting on the tax return. This item is money in the pocket for those who are able to take it. This deduction could be substantial, but you must have a business profit to take it. I have written on this deduction in more detail in the May-June 2018 edition of Gulf Coast Woman.

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TAXES The different taxes that still exist (alternative minimum, excess advance premium tax credit repayment, self-employment, additional tax on IRAs and other tax-favored accounts, etc.) are summarized on either of two new schedules, schedule 2 “Tax” and schedule 4 “Other Taxes.”

CREDITS AND PAYMENTS The two major types of credits (non-refundable and refundable) still exist. Non-refundable credits are summarized on (new) schedule 3 “Non-refundable Credits” and payments (e.g. estimated tax payments, tax payments applied from prior year, amounts paid with extension to file) are summarized on (new) schedule 5 “Other Payments and Refundable Credits.”

In summary, the IRS requires essentially the same information. It eliminated the short-form, long-form 1040 confusion and replaced it with a single form 1040 that will be used by everyone who files. The new 1040 appears shorter, but in reality, the same information that was required before still is needed to complete the tax return. There is a new layer of schedules that summarizes information and helps to keep the face of the 1040 from looking cluttered and intimidating.

Since many of you do not complete your own tax returns, you really don’t have to know where to report your information on the new forms since your tax professional or tax software will do it for you.

Perkins is a CPA at Tina Perkins, CPA, P.A., 4048 Popps Ferry Road, D’Iberville, Mississippi, 39540. Reach her at (228) 3922991.

25+ Years Tax Preparation and Planning Experience 25+ Years Tax Preparation and 9+ Years U.S. Auditor Planning Experience Small Business Counselor 9+ Years U.S. Auditor Small Business Counselor

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Take it from the

stars — make a will

No one likes to think about death, but it is amazing how many people, including stars with millions of dollars in assets, die without any estate plan to determine what will happen to their estate or who will get their assets after their

By Kathy Van Zutphen death. Every person, no matter how old, should have at least a basic legal document called a last will and testament to state how his or her estate should be handled after death. An AARP survey found that 2 out of 5 Americans over 45 haven't addressed this very fundamental part of estate planning. Here are some examples from the stars to show why no one should neglect to prepare a will.

DELAYS Amazingly, Prince, who died on April 21, 2016, in his Paisley Park compound in Minnesota, did not have an estate plan — not even a basic last will and testament. Therefore, it was necessary to start a court proceeding to handle his “intestate” estate, meaning without a last will and testament under Minnesota state law. Multiple people who claimed to be his unknown spouse, children or siblings filed claims hoping to receive a part of his estimated $200 million estate. The judge, however, rejected several of these heirship claims, and the “denied” parties have filed appeals that take time to resolve. That means that because no legal documents stated how the estate should be distributed after his death, the legal process now has incurred delays, and his heirs have waited over two years since Prince’s death without receiving one penny from his estate. Such delays could have been avoided if he had prepared even a basic last will and testament.

CONFLICTS Another problem an estate may have without a last will and testament is conflict between heirs or parties with legitimate claims to the estate. Like Prince, Aretha Franklin did not have a last will and testament in place when she died on Aug. 16, 2018. Therefore, an intestate estate proceeding was started in Michigan. Franklin’s four sons have filed documents as interested parties to her estate, while 120

January-February 2019

her niece, Sabrina Owens, has asked Michigan’s Oakland County Probate Court to appoint her as the personal representative of the estate. It is too early to determine what conflicts may arise in Franklin’s estate; however, in the 1970s, the fight over Jimi Hendrix’s intestate estate allegedly lasted more than 30 years.

ASSETS MAY NOT GO WHERE YOU WANT Perhaps the biggest reason to prepare a last will and testament is so your assets will go where you want them to go after your death. With a last will and testament, you can direct who will handle your estate and who will get the assets. If you want your assets to go to a charity or to someone who is not your next of kin, you can handle that situation with a last will and testament. The intestacy laws of each state specify how the assets will be distributed without a will, and typically, there is a preference for the blood relatives or next of kin to receive the assets. So if you desire a different result, such as a stepchild, charity or friend receiving any of your assets, you should prepare a will.

Amy Winehouse died without a last will and testament, and her father, Mitch Winehouse, was appointed the administrator of her estate, and her parents inherited her fortune according to the state laws. There was, however, a documentary released before her death that publicized her contentious relationship with her father. One could speculate Winehouse may not have wanted this outcome. Without a will, however, the law will state how the assets will be distributed, regardless of any evidence indicating that the deceased would have wanted a different distribution.

The assets belong to you, so prepare a last will and testament so you can direct who will receive your assets after your death with a minimum of delays and conflicts.

Kathy Brown van Zutphen is an attorney licensed to practice law in Alabama and Mississippi. She focuses on the “elder law” areas of trusts, estates and conservatorships. Additionally, she litigates lawsuits and represents small business owners as part of her legal practice. Visit Kathy’s website to learn more: www. al-mscoastallaw.com. You can also reach her at her office: (228) 357-5227.

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You probably are not planning to have a heart attack tomorrow, get diagnosed with cancer or accidentally step out in front of traffic.

By Angelyn Treutel Zeringue You may be young and healthy and have no dependents, so life insurance probably isn’t for you … or is it?

This is never a fun topic, but evaluating your risk is a first step to preparedness. As with all insurance, life insurance is about preparing for the unexpected. The main reason to buy life insurance is for financial protection for your family and dependents or your business. If you are the sole income earner or a major provider in your family, life insurance definitely makes sense. If you should die unexpectedly, your policy will help your loved ones pay your final expenses and potentially receive ongoing support. The amount they receive will depend on the size policy you buy.

IN YOUR 20S: A life insurance policy can pay for student or home loans or other large outstanding debts, as well as your funeral expenses. The younger you are when you secure your policy, the better the rate. Many term policies can be converted into permanent policies later on without having to requalify. If you develop a severe or chronic condition at any point, your life insurance is already in place.

Essentially, you can insure your insurability.

IN YOUR 30S OR MORE: Most people begin seriously thinking about buying a life insurance policy at about the time they start a family, when they realize they are mortal and have real financial responsibilities. An important consideration for anyone who wants to purchase life insurance is that it will never be cheaper than it is today. It’s not too late at the age of 30, 40, 50 — or even later — to buy life insurance that will protect your dependents from financial hardship or provide for you in retirement. However, your costs will go up the longer you wait. If you do buy life insurance now, you can lock in a life insurance premium at a more affordable rate than it will be a few years down the road.

Life insurance causes more confusion for people than perhaps any other type of insurance, partly because there are several different types of life insurance products and partly because the best life insurance is unique to each individual.You may email me if you have specific questions at azeringue@southgroup.net.

Angelyn Treutel Zeringue is president of SouthGroup Insurance Services. She previously chaired the Agents Council for Technology (ACT) for the national Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America (IIABA) and has spearheaded numerous programs fostering the use of technology to enhance and improve the independent agency system.

HOME

Necaise

The wish-list house on When a retired city administrator moves to a new home in Old Town, she discovers that downsizing in the Bay can mean a major expansion of life.

Story and photos by Ellis Anderson | BSLShoofly.com Like many things in Kay Kell’s life, her dream home started with a list.

Long lists of things to do were part of Kell’s world for two decades as a professional city administrator. Starting in 1989, she managed (in turn) the cities of Bay St. Louis, Picayune and Pascagoula.

When she retired from Pascagoula in 2010, she was praised for “the uncanny ability to get the job done no matter what the obstacle,” while the mayor said she knew more about economic development than “anyone on the coast.”

But the lists of things Kell personally wanted had always been pushed to the backburner. A 2010 article about her retirement referred to the bucket list she’d written down — one that Hurricane Katrina washed out to sea. Yet even after retirement, it took six more years before Kell got serious about her own dreams.

2016 found Kell living in a spacious condo on the Perdido Key beach. While

the sunsets and scenery were stunning, she realized she was the only full-time resident in her building. Social interactions were rare to non-existent. When she came down with a bad case of flu, a friend drove over from Pascagoula to help out. The experience was a wake-up call, and she realized she was living in a ghost town of sorts.

“After having worked for cities so many years, I needed true community,” she says.

Friends suggested that she unplug and go on a weekend retreat to give herself a space to contemplate what she truly wanted in her future and where she wanted to live. Kell still has the handwritten pages from that weekend, and the checklist she created is very specific.

She wanted her new home to be in a small community with open-minded people. It had to be one where she could be involved in civic projects and

make a difference by volunteering. She also wanted her new town to be close to family and friends and near the water, as well as safe and walkable with good restaurants.

It was a long list, but when she thought about it, Bay St. Louis — a city she used to manage — fit the bill on every count. One of her two grown daughters even lived a stone’s throw away.

Next, she started working on a list for her perfect house. Kell wasn’t looking for anything large or elaborate because she was down-sizing. However, she wanted a fireplace — and a garage for her old ragtop Thunderbird. It’d be near beach, with a least some sunset view. Other items on her wish list were a fire pit, a small yard and a large tub and big closet.

Kell ended up renting an apartment in Bay St. Louis for more than a year while she shopped for a new home. Realtors showed her houses with garages and no www.gcwmultimedia.com

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January-February 2019

fireplace, or homes with a fireplace and no garage. She held out, believing that every box on her list would be checked one day.

Finally, her good friend Nikki Moon, owner of the Bay Town Inn, tipped Kell off. She’d heard a couple was building a house on Necaise Avenue. They’d intended it for themselves, but there’d been a change of plans, and they were going to put it on the market. Kell toured the unfinished home. Although it was half the size of her condo in Florida, the level of detailing made a big impression.

Even the sunset box on her list got a check mark.

From the house’s small back porch, she could watch the sun sink below the horizon — at least during part of the year. Best of all, while the yard was small, two enormous oak trees flanked the house.

“I felt at home as soon as I walked in,” Kell says.

The house sale closed on Halloween day, 2017.

Friends who had helped Kell move some things in lingered for the traditional neighborhood trick-or-treating. Dozens of costumed children and watchful parents strolled the streets, visiting and laughing. The joy and camaraderie apparent in her new neighborhood made the day unforgettable.

But more lists were in store for Kell. The drastic downsizing required that she look at each of her belongings and furnishings to decide which was most cherished and what would be sold. Two lists were made

— the keepsakes and the things she’d give up.

She prioritized family memorabilia and artwork from travels and furnishings with sentimental attachment — like a small, plain bookcase that belonged to her mother.

Meaning took precedence over assessed value.

Among the keepers that found a place in the new house is a pie safe Kay’s father rebuilt for her mother, a home economics teacher. There’s a vintage painting of a man she long ago bought in a Main Street shop. Since she has no idea who the model is, Kell nicknamed the man in the painting “G.W.,” for “Guess Who.” There’s also the teaching certificate of her namesake great-aunt, a set of intricate dollhouse furniture made by her grandfather from tin cans and her mother’s lace wedding dress – sewn by the industrious bride. These are Kell’s real treasures, the ones of the heart. These items are spread like touchstones throughout the interior, even making their way into the kitchen.

A good friend from Texas, Marlene Breedlove, helped Kell with the interior design aspect of the new house, so the antiques and memorabilia and artwork from places like Australia and Italy now mesh comfortably with contemporary furnishings and fixtures.

Since the house is on a corner, it has two primary entrances, each opening up to the main living area (with fireplace, check!) and kitchen. The dining room is part of

the mix but tucked off to the side a bit, giving it a more intimate feel. Kell, who enjoys entertaining, laughs about the energy vortex in the center of the living area.

“No matter where you tell everyone to sit, they’re all going to wind up around the kitchen island,” she says. Also on the main floor is the master suite, with windows overlooking the courtyard.

Upstairs, two more bedrooms open up to a central “library” area. Kell uses one as a guest room and the other as her office. Each has glass doors that open to the second-floor covered balcony, tucked beneath the massive boughs of a live oak tree.

It’s only one of several outdoor living spaces; the cunningly designed house has them on all four sides. There’s an open front porch facing the oak and a screened porch built around the house’s State Street entrance.

On the opposite side, where the house sits close to the lot line, a narrower porch overlooks a hot tub. Fencing and plantings give the nook a cloistered, private feel. In back, the pleasant New Orleans style courtyard is shaded by the canopy of another huge oak tree.

But the porch swing hanging from a stout limb of the oak in front has become Kell’s favorite outside hangout.

“I sit out in my swing and people just stop and visit as they’re passing by,” Kell says. “It’s one of my favorite things about the neighborhood.”

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DIY

Old-fashioned rope swing

By Holly Lemoine-Raymond | BSLShoofly.com SUPPLY LIST

- Circular Saw - Use a spade bit to drill holes approximately 6/8 of an inch in diameter - Nails - Hammer - Measuring tape - Pencil or marker - Rope (Any old rope will do, but I used “braided manila rope,” aka “hemp rope.”)

- 2-by-8 piece of wood (Mine is 4 feet) - Someone to climb in the tree to secure the rope and tie the knots - Electrical tape

STEP THREE

Once the seat has been cut, you will need to decide where your rope holes will go. Holes should be evenly spaced at each corner. I drilled the holes for my swing about 1/2 inch in.

Using a spade bit, drill four holes in the corners of the seat.

The holes must be big enough to put the rope through.

STEP FOUR

STEP ONE

Wrap the ends of the rope to keep them from fraying. You can also burn the ends, but why play with fire when there are other ways to make it work?

Poke the ends of the rope through the holes in the seat.

Cut two equal lengths of rope. The height of the limb will determine the length of the rope. You’ll want to make sure the seat hangs at least 20 inches from the ground and you have enough rope to wrap the rope around the limb two or three times. Manila rope is super durable.

STEP FIVE

STEP TWO

Measure and cut the seat. I used a 2-by-8 piece of recycled wood. I cut it at 4 feet, which is small enough for a child yet comfortable enough for an adult. Don't forget to measure twice and cut once.

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January-February 2019

Tie the ends of the rope into an Ashley stopper knot.

This knot is a bit complicated for me to explain. I had a great friend and fireman who was kind enough to volunteer not only to climb the tree to wrap the rope around the limb, but also to also tie the knots (Thanks John Glidden!).

ART ALLEY In The Pass

STEP SIX

Now swing! My model is my beautiful niece, Kennedy Aaron. I hope this quick tree swing project brings you years of enjoyment!

Besides being a “DIY Diva,” local Realtor Holly Lemoine-Raymond acts as an informal scout for “You Live in What” and other HGTV productions. In the past two years, she’s pitched several historic buildings in Bay St. Louis to producers at Beyond Media, the company that has produced five seasons of the show for HGTV's GAC Network. She is also a contributor to Shoofly Magazine, a Gulf Coast Woman affiliate.

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Behold elevates framing to an artform

By Jennifer Gentile When she opened Behold Custom Framing & Art Gallery in 2000, owner Sheri Armstrong had no choice but to reinvent herself.

“I found myself a newly divorced mother of a 5-year old trying to figure out how to balance a career and maintain a household with a child starting kindergarten soon,” Armstrong says.

“I decided, as challenging as it would be, that opening my own business would allow me the flexibility to manage motherhood and career as a single woman.”

An educational background in art history and interior design, along with a work history in retail management and manufacturing, led Armstrong to her love of custom framing. In deciding what to call her new company, she consulted the dictionary and got no further than the letter B. “The definition of behold is ‘to see or gaze upon, to apprehend through sight, to observe with care, to direct the mind to perceive, to fix the eyes upon and hold in view,’” Armstrong explains. “I had my name!”

The gallery launched in 2000 in the Market Town Shopping Center in Bay Saint Louis. Five years later, it flooded during Katrina.

“Starting around Dec. 2005, I operated from my garage at the urging of a handful of customers trying to get their businesses and homes back together after the storm,” Armstrong recalls.

The store has since moved, although it remains in Bay St. Louis in the Hancock Square Shopping Center. Behold continues to take great pride in its design and craftsmanship, Armstrong says, and patrons can choose among hundreds of molding and matting samples to protect and display their treasures perfectly.

“Custom picture framing involves careful consideration of color and proportion,” Armstrong says. “Behold has the expertise necessary to handle anything that requires creative design and preservation.”

Whether a customer’s style leans toward the traditional or trendy, the owner says Behold can offer advice and accommodate any taste. The gallery is packed with inspiration as well, showcasing diverse works by acclaimed regional artists in numerous mediums.

“It has been my pleasure to have done business with my coastal customers, and also the local artists, for almost 20 years now,” Armstrong says.

The owner doesn’t foresee any big changes for Behold in the immediate future — adding that the business will maintain the practices that have served it well.

“I want to continue to serve the customers who have been so loyal to me,” Armstrong says, “and welcome new people to the community.”

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January-February 2019

Sheri Armstrong with her son, Aric

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FAITH

‘So So’

By Jennifer Gentile

strong

Sophia Myers leaves legacy of hope, love

At first, Angel Myers McIlrath wasn’t worried.

The Ocean Springs resident had every reason to believe her daughter, Sophia, would recover after being diagnosed with the flu in February of 2017. Even when the vivacious 7-year-old didn’t get better, and her doctor ordered an MRI, McIlrath managed to remain calm.

Nonetheless, upon arriving at the hospital for the test, the Ocean Springs resident recalls, “I could feel something wasn’t right — that this was more than the flu or dehydration.”

An after office-hours phone call brought her and Sophia’s father, Josh Myers, back to the doctor’s office — where they learned a mass had formed on Sophia’s brainstem.

“At that time, [the doctor] couldn’t tell us if it was cancer, but we all knew in our hearts that it was,” McIlrath says.

“By 1:30 [p.m.] the next day, we were in Jackson being told that Sophia had DIPG and would only live nine to 12 months with radiation.”

DIPG refers to diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma, an aggressive tumor that impacts all bodily functions, including ability to move, eat and communicate. The illness affects children almost exclusively, typically age 4 to 11.

Within eight months of her diagnosis,

Sophia — the dancer, Girl Scout and animal lover with impeccable comedic timing — was gone.

“She was perfection,” her mother says.

“I want Sophia to remembered for her kind soul and personality. … She was truly special.”

In a video eulogy, her father recounts a trip to California with Sophia, during which they visited Disneyland, Hollywood and other renown spots. Afterward, she told him her favorite part was “walking on the beach with you, dad” — and all the special father-daughter moments they’d shared.

“It wasn’t anything money could buy,” Myers says. “Sophia never asked for much, but she was always happy.”

During her battle with DIPG, Sophia underwent treatment in five hospitals in four states — including 30 days of radiation, six months of chemotherapy and two brain surgeries. Besides the devastating physical affects, McIlrath recalls, she watched her child change emotionally and mentally.

“It’s heartbreaking. Our day was set by what time she had to take her medicine, what treatment she had, and trying to fill it with fun activities for her,” McIlrath says. “As she declined, each day was marred with ‘is this the day she will die?’”

Even at the end, Myers says, “she always thought about me

and mom.”

“She was just the sweetest girl,” he adds tearfully. “I want everyone to know what a sweet child she was and how much I’ll miss her.”

NOT THE ONLY LOVE Each year, a reported 200-400 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with DIPG. Given its relative rarity, a recent cluster of cases on the Gulf Coast has raised alarm. Sophia is one of three children affected in Ocean Springs alone since 2010, and McIlrath says two more have been diagnosed with DIPG recently in the Mobile/southwest Alabama area.

While no official connection has been www.gcwmultimedia.com

135

Ps are necessary found, McIlrath has pledged to push for a regional study, and to engage private firms to investigate environmental health in the area.

“My desire is for there not to be an environmental cause for DIPG,” she says. “That would mean our children are safe, and it would mean Josh and I didn’t expose Sophia to the thing that caused her death.”

However, given the high instance of cancer in the region among children and adults, McIlrath says, “We wont know unless we look.”

From the start, the grieving mother says she knew her fight against DIPG would not end with Sophia’s life. She is determined to serve the community any way she can, and she has founded the SoSo Strong Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation to honor her daughter’s memory.

Sophia’s loved ones affectionately called her Baby Bug, Buggy and Bug throughout her life, but SoSo — a nickname from her grandmother — was her favorite.

“We had reminded her that she was ‘soso strong’ throughout her battle, and it just seemed fitting to name the foundation after her,” McIlrath says.

"YOU NEVER GET OVER IT" Although more than a year has passed since Sophia’s death, McIlrath still must remind herself that she doesn’t need a table for three at restaurants, or that she can’t share something funny with her daughter. Despite her broken heart, and the realization that “you never get over it,” McIlrath says she feels stronger than she ever has.

“Grief is not a place to leave or pass through; it is not limited by time or expectation,” she says. “Grief is something that you will carry with you for the rest of your life, but you don’t carry it alone.”

Quoting a poem that reflects his own experience, Myers says, “I could only be grateful when I realized that I would rather have known you for a moment than never at all.”

“Sophia was my heart,” he continues in the video eulogy.

“People tell me to be strong, that this will get better, but how can you move on without your heart?”

For others suffering from a similar loss, McIlrath recommends seeking professional support. A Grief Share program at her local church has helped her to heal, and she has relied heavily on her faith.

“I am confident that I will see Sophia in heaven,” McIlrath says. “This life is short, (and) even if I spend another 40 years without her here, that is nothing compared to the eternity I will spend with her.”

January-February 2019 136

On New Year’s Day, many people throughout the South have a tradition of eating their peas. I myself grew up in the South, where we exercised that tradition. My mom repeatBy Robin Killeen edly told us that eating peas was necessary to growing up strong and healthy. Every New Year’s Day, our menu consisted of black-eyed peas to bring health and luck for the entire year ahead. Some say that dried black-eyed peas resemble coins, while other interpretations say peas symbolize expanding wealth.

Whatever the reason, I have found in my daily walk that Ps are necessary.

To thrive in the world we live in, we must have poise, patience and perseverance, which results in peace and power — bringing us satisfying results that make us feel richly rewarded.

What is poise? Well, I am glad you asked.

Poise is the ability to function, I prefer to use the word flourish, under pressure and not lose our peace when everything seems to be going wrong around us. Practicing poise, patience and perseverance generate peace, power and confidence. Without these Ps, we never will be able to attain spiritual or emotional maturity. It takes practice to be poised and patient, resulting in a calm demeanor and being centered in Christ. Then, and only then, are we able to meet any demands that may arise with a loving spirit and a peaceful heart. You see, nothing will be able to disturb the calm peace of our souls when we practice poise through prayer, patience and perseverance.

Psalm 46:10 says, “Be still and know that I am God.” To know God and to receive his rest requires that we be still.

Being still is where the poise and patience come in. It takes practice to train our minds and emotions to be still before God through prayer, but it is so critical if we are to walk in his promises, power and peace.

I am sure most everyone has seen signs posted on the front door of certain businesses saying “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Service.” As Christian women living and functioning in this uncertain world, we should stop worrying and start reminding ourselves daily that our Ps are necessary to our growth, our health and our wellbeing. The personal sign on our own front doors, hearts and minds should read, “I have poise, patience, peace and power” — not “No poise, no patience, no peace.”

Peter 5:7 NIV says, “Cast all your anxiety, your cares upon him, because he cares for you.”

Remember — your Ps are necessary!

Killeen is founder of W.O.W. (Women of Wisdom). W.O.W. meets every second Wednesday of the month at noon at the Knight Nonprofit Center in Gulfport.

FAMILY Need help mommying?

There’s a blog for that!

At left, friends Christy Bjork Elias and Elizabeth Slade DiLorenzo with their children

By Jennifer Gentile Motherhood doesn’t come with an instruction manual, but a pair of local women are determined to provide the next best thing.

Featuring over 20 writers from Pascagoula to Bay St. Louis, The Gulf Coast Moms Blog is a partnership between friends Elizabeth Slade DiLorenzo and Christy Bjork Elias. No matter their age, background or beliefs, moms can find content on the blog that reflects their unique experience.

“We know that through our amazing team of contributors, we can provide a great service to mothers along the Mississippi Gulf Coast,” Elias says. “We want to empower moms to change a community through the power of their words.”

Launching the blog required career shifts for both women.

DiLorenzo has worked in multiple facets of the journalism industry, including advertising and public relations, and spent her longest stint with MGM Resorts.

“I have always had an interest in writing,” says DiLorenzo, who is also a freelance editor — mainly of children’s books.

Elias’ background is in higher education administration, focused largely on student event programming, leadership and initiatives. Some of the campus-wide events, services and opportunities she developed, she says, are still growing today.

Both women are Leadership Gulf Coast graduates.

Although they have known each other since college, the women’s connection deepened when DiLorenzo’s daughter, Marin, and Elias’s son, John Salem, were born a day apart.

“I saw early on that Christy has a passion for motherhood, and her strong work ethic and heart of gold are evident to everyone that knows her,” Elizabeth says. “I had been considering starting a blog, but I knew I needed to partner with someone who shared my values and vision.” From their initial conversation about the project, she adds, “it just seemed like it was meant to be.”

Both women are avid researchers, and DiLorenzo says from the first days of parenthood to the present, they have consulted mommy blogs for advice.

“We know that we don’t have all the answers. We are not the parenting experts,” she says. “But we hope that through this platform, we will help to connect moms with each other and to resources and encouragement they need.”

To dedicate Inquiring moms can find informathemselves to tion on virtually any parenthood-related topic on Gulf Coast Moms the blog full Blog, from fitness and travel to food time, both and upcoming activities. A goal of DiLorenzo and the blog is to provide fresh, enlightening content that is relevant to the Elias had to area. make sacrifices.

“We want to help other women grow as mothers and not feel alone in the process,” Elias says. “This is Visit the blog: exactly why we wanted to start Gulf gulfcoast.cityCoast Moms Blog. Our hope is to empower, educate and support.” momsblog.com.

To dedicate themselves to the blog full time, both DiLorenzo and Elias had to make sacrifices. Elias soon realized that she couldn’t be an entrepreneur, keep a full-time job and raise her child all at once. Likewise, Elias said transitioning to stay-at-home mom, which meant ending a decade-long career, was difficult. They also had to educate themselves on the ins and outs of operating their business. A major advantage in that process was being a member of City Moms Blog Network, which includes 80-plus sister sites.

“The network has provided invaluable resources to help us along the way,” DiLorenzo says. “On top of that, we have an amazing tribe of friends, old and new, that are loving what we are building.”

In the near future, the blog’s readers can look forward to more fun events for moms and families, as well as guides giving readers quick access to parenting resources on the Gulf Coast. www.gcwmultimedia.com

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So, your child brought home an ugly report card? Here's what you can do From Huntington Learning Center Holiday break is behind us, and it’s a brand new year — which also means those mid-year report cards are just around the corner.

“Many students and parents dread report cards, but they shouldn’t,” says Erin Gibson of the Gulfport Huntington Learning Center. “A child’s report card contains lots of useful information about his or her skill proficiency, academic development and strengths and weaknesses.

Using that knowledge, parents can help their child overcome school problems and be the best student possible.”

Gibson offers parents a few tips to address different report card scenarios:

Issue: My child’s report card says he needs to work on study skills

If your child struggles to get focused at homework time (or during class), is overly disorganized or has trouble prioritizing and managing his or her time, talk with him or her about what might help. Try a planner or notebook to record and check off homework assignments and other obligations. Make organization a part of the homework routine — setting up, keeping the desk neat and filing away graded homework.

Ask your child what study strategies seem to work for him or her best — a quiet room? Taking an after-school break before diving into homework?

Issue: My child’s grades do not reflect her efforts If your child spends a lot of time on homework but his or her grades are still suffering, there may be other issues at play. He or she may be missing basic skills or may not understand the concepts covered in class (and struggles to tackle them at home). Visit with your child’s teacher to get 138

January-February 2019

an approximate idea of how much time should be spent on homework each evening and how you can best support your child.

Issue: My child’s grades were mostly fine, but he received a failing grade in one subject

It is common for children to do better in certain subjects than others, but a failing grade in any subject is a red flag that your child may not be comprehending class material, completing assignments or putting forth the effort required. Schedule a meeting with the teacher to discuss the reasons behind the low mark and get ideas to help your child bring up the grade by the end of the year.

Issue: My child’s report card is full of bad grades, and she doesn’t seem to care Your child may care more than you think. Many children who struggle in school have low self-esteem and assume their parents are disappointed in them. They stop trying because they would rather get a low grade than experience continued frustration. Resist the urge to punish your child for failing and instead let him or her know that you want to help. Communicate openly about what your child thinks will help him or her improve. Involve your child in the plan of action to encourage him or her to take ownership and responsibility.

There’s a lot to be learned from your child’s report card, but Gibson reminds parents to keep it in perspective.

“Report cards and the grades they contain certainly do not measure how smart your child is or the likelihood of his or her success in life, so don’t panic if your child’s report card indicates that he or she needs help,” Gibson says. “Investigate these issues with your child’s teacher, and together, you can help your child raise his or her self-esteem, do better in school and be a happier person overall.”

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FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

DELIGHT your palate at White Pillars

By Chris Dearman

Just steps away from the beach, housed in an iconic, restored Southern mansion, White Pillars is an upscale, farm-to-table restaurant that has quickly became one of the Coast’s premier dining spots after being closed for nearly 30 years.

White Pillars is owned and operated by Mississippi natives Chef Austin Sumrall and his wife, Tresse, who met while in school at Ole Miss. After Austin received classical training at the Culinary Institute of America in New York, they moved to Birmingham, Alabama, where he began his career at the famed Hot and Hot Fish Club. Using his training, along with the knowledge of working under three different James Beard award winners, the Sumralls decided to pursue their dream of opening a restaurant of their own. Wanting to do so in their home state, they decided the iconic White Pillars in Biloxi would be perfect location to showcase Chef Austin’s locally sourced, farm-fresh style to locals and tourists alike.

The 1905 home became White Pillars in 1969, and for 20 years was one of the most popular restaurants on the Gulf Coast.

Having sustained serious damage from hurricanes Camille and Katrina, the building underwent a complete renovation starting in 2011 in hopes that it one day would reopen as a restaurant. The Sumralls were the perfect people to do so. Officially opening on Dec. 12, 2017, the Sumralls have quickly returned White Pillars to glory, having won multiple awards for best new restaurant in its first year of operation.

The White Pillars’ ever-changing menu is printed daily to reflect the locally sourced, farm-fresh ingredients Chef Austin uses in his creatively inspired dishes. Wanting to know where every140

January-February 2019

thing on the plate comes from, he has formed personal relationships with most of the farmers from whom he gets his ingredients, with some willing to grow specific items he requests.

“The menu changes every day depending on what we get fresh that day,” Chef Austin says of his seasonal Southern cuisine. “I go to all the local farmers’ markets in Biloxi, Ocean Springs and Long Beach; there’s different things I get at each one. Different farmers grow different things, so whatever is fresh and best that day reflects on the menu that night.”

Looking at the menu, you can find dishes from all over the world. There is a Korean dish, a Japanese dish and some that are rooted in French and Italian cuisines. The binding factor is that all are local and seasonal ingredients.

“We want it to be playful and nostalgic,” Chef Austin said of the menu. “Some of them are a twist on a classic dish, some are originals, but we stand by all of them. I like to say that you can

just close your eyes and point, and you’d be fine.”

Shortly after being seated, I was served an amuse bouche of smoked Gulf fish on a sea salt and olive oil cracker. Based on this auspicious start to my meal alone, I knew I was in for a treat.

Served as a glimpse into the chef ’s style, the small bite was bursting with big flavors. I would return just to order a whole plate of them.

Next, my server Jenna brought out some warm homemade rolls served with pork lardo in place of the usual butter. Never having tried it before, I was a little cautious when learning it was made from whipped, cured fat from the back of the pig, mixed with honey and sea salt. I was pleasantly surprised that it complemented the bread rather nicely.

The White Pillars menu is comprised of various sections to help create the perfect meal for your table’s needs. The “Starters for the Table” section has options such as a cold Gulf seafood tower consisting of Mon Louis oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, marinated jumbo lump crab, Mississippi paddlefish caviar and tilefish crudo.

There also is a house-cured charcuterie plate of exotic meats.

Wanting to experience as many dishes as my appetite could handle, the “Small Plates” section of the menu offered a wide array of exciting choices. I started with the 2 Dog Farms field green salad, which is made from field greens clipped at a baby stage from a Flora, Mississippi, farm, tossed in a sage and brown butter vinaigrette and trimmed with ciabatta croutons, candied pecans, shaved radishes, roasted butternut squash and persimmon jam.

The textures of the salad, along with the hint of sweetness, complemented each bite perfectly.

Next was a crab avocado toast, featuring a house-made brioche, a nice spread of avocado and marinated jumbo lump crab acquired from Jennifer Le Seafood, which has crab traps in Biloxi.

The dish was topped with micro greens from Ocean Springs, satsumas and a preserved lemon aioli, making for very fresh-tasting bites.

This was followed by one of White Pillars’ award-winning flagship dishes, the Korean barbecue pork belly. The amazing sauce contains 40 different ingredients, and cooking the pork belly itself is a three-day process. After getting whole pigs in, the bellies are broken down, cured overnight in salt and herbs, rinsed off and seared in cast iron, then braised for two hours. After being wrapped to cool, the bellies are pressed, portioned out, seared again, then covered with the sauce and finished in the oven. The mouth-watering result is one of the best dishes I’ve had on the Coast.

While one easily can make a meal from the small plates side of the menu, the entrée section has an impressive choice of options as well. The smoked and fried chicken, shrimp and pork belly ramen, rabbit confit pasta and seared duck breast all sounded amazing. There is even a vintage section, featuring loose interpretations of dishes served when White Pillars was originally open.

For my entrée, I had the wood-grilled amberjack, cooked on a wood-burning grill that gives the fish an enhanced flavor and smell. The aroma was intoxicating. Plated on top of a butternut squash risotto with lion’s mane mushrooms, brown butter, sage and chestnuts, the perfectly cooked fish was absolutely delightful.

Let Ms. Audrey’s Southern Kitchen and Catering Cater Your Next Event!

We cater: Events ~ Parties ~ Holiday’s ~ Meetings With 30 years of culinary expertise, Ms. Audrey will personally ensure your event is filled with a home-cooked flavor that all of your guest will remember for a lifetime.

We only use the finest ingredients and recipes that have been handed down from generations with award winning taste.

228.214.4287 | 1316 30th Avenue | Gulfport, MS 39501 | msaudreyskitchen.com

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SCORE on game day The biggest game of the year deserves the best spread — no, not points, but food.

What will it be for Super Bowl LIII? Will you serve the usual wings and burgers, or maybe score a touchdown with a menu that is over the top?

Feb. 3 will be here before fans know it. For those not making the trek to Atlanta, or who are unable to afford the ticket prices, a Super Bowl party works just a well. Some organizations and churches get in the game with parties, too. Pick a theme and plan your decorations and menu accordingly.

A classic favorite, a big pot of chili, would heat up the game if served with homemade tamales, guacamole and chips and salsa.

Yes, tamales take practice, but the masa-wrapped shredded beef or pork can be eaten out of the hand. I am a fan of finger or hand foods. Simply place the tamales on a platter, let guests grab their own and offer bowls of big red.

Don’t want to mess with making tamales? pick up two or three dozen at a favorite Mexican restaurant. What would this southof-the border menu be without a heaping platter of nachos?

Nachos work any time.

Perhaps traditional Super Bowl fare is more your forte. Why not plan the party around the football? A football-shaped cake is easy to make. Simply bake your favorite sheet cake, then turn out and trim the sides and ends of the cake to look like a football. Of course, chocolate icing must be spread over the cake while white icing makes the laces.

A different twist on the chocolate football cake is chocolate-dipped strawberries decorated with white laces. These could be placed on a serving platter, or for a richer dessert, place on top of brownies. The packaged candy rounds sold at craft stores work for melting. Simply dip the strawberry into the melted chocolate, place on waxed or parchment paper and let harden in the refrigerator. Prior to the party, pipe the laces onto the strawberries.

Since this is football, dishes of meatballs in various sauces is an easy-to-do, protein-packed snack. Sauces could include barbecue; sweet and sour and the old standby of ketchup, grape jelly and hot sauce. You can take the easy way out and buy frozen meatballs. There are several varieties that taste great. I was praising a friend’s meatballs at a party, and she told me they were frozen. I could hardy believe it; they were so good.

If heartier fare is desired, how about a football-shaped

By Andrea Yeager

meatloaf with a side of mashed potatoes or cheesy potato rings? Whatever the menu, keep the game in mind. Foods should be easy to eat while gathering around the television, not something that requires sitting at a table. While not necessarily healthy, Super Bowl food or snacks should be mouth-watering.

Remember, too, the guests that may have made weight-loss resolutions in January 2019 or those that have sworn off sugar or can’t have gluten. Make sure they can partake of some of the party foods, too. A relish tray filled with fresh veggies served with hummus is lighter fare that packs a protein punch. Be sure to add broccoli to the veggie tray for additional vitamins and minerals from this superfood. A fruit salad made with strawberries, blueberries, chia seeds and kiwi could replace a sugary dessert.

No matter what’s in your spread, make sure it is easy to prepare, filled with flavor and appealing to the eye.

After all, we eat with our eyes first.

EASY SHEET PAN NACHOS -One standard-size bag tortilla chips -Pound block of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterrey jack or Colby jack, shredded -Optional toppings, such as ground beef, shredded beef, pork or chicken -Black beans or pinto beans -Tomatoes, jalapenos or chiles -Corn, black olives, avocados Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with a

silicone baking mat or foil.

Spread chips over cookies sheet. Sprinkle half of the grated cheese over the chips. Sprinkle toppings over the chips and cheese. Sprinkle on remaining cheese.

Bake for about 10 minutes or until cheese is good and melty.

Serve warm with sides such as guacamole, sour cream or salsa.

– From www.lovefromtheoven.com/

GCW best reads

Books not to be missed

By Tanya Marie Lewis

“BECOMING” Genre: Non-fiction, memoir Author: Michelle Obama Publisher: Crown Cost: $19.95 In this life-changing memoir by former First Lady Michelle Obama, readers get a front-row seat as she shares stories of triumph and heartache — from growing up in abject poverty to living in the most famous address in the nation. Of course, the book centers on what she loves most, her husband and daughters. With her unmatched grace and style, Obama addresses her issues with Donald Trump and the adversities she experienced as a first lady of the United States. The book has been described as raw, honest and relatable.

“LEAN IN: WOMEN, WORK AND THE WILL TO LEAD” Genre: Non-fiction, business Author: Sheryl Sandberg Publisher: Crown Cost: $19.95 Mark Zuckerberg knows how to pick a winner, from creating the world’s largest social media platform to promoting Sheryl Sandberg to Facebook’s chief operating officer. In “Lean In,” Sandberg shares wisdom, strategies and techniques necessary to position yourself for promotion in life and business. If your dreams have been lying dormant, this book is the push you need to pursue and fulfill your greatest ambitions.

“A TURN IN THE ROAD” Genre: Fiction, inspirational Author: Debbie Macomber Publisher: Crown Cost: $19.95 What do you do when you have all your plans laid out — and things don’t go as planned? That’s exactly what happens to Bethanne Hamlin in the new novel from the Blossom Street Series. Bethanne has dreams of reinventing her life after turning 50 and decides to take a road trip to her hometown with her daughter and mother-in-law to rekindle sparks with her high school sweetheart. All three women have their own agenda and their own plans, but

they soon find no matter how well you map out your life, there’s always an opportunity for a turn in the road.

“GIRL, WASH YOUR FACE: STOP BELIEVING THE LIES ABOUT WHO YOU ARE SO YOU CAN BECOME WHO YOU WERE MEANT TO BE” Genre: Non-Fiction, Self-Help/ Transformation Author: Rachel Hollis Publisher: Thomas Nelson Cost: $22.99 New York Times best-selling author Rachel Hollis dispels the lies we’ve been taught to believe about success in her new book. The misconception that you must be perfect to have success is a stumbling block for women in life and business. Hollis is a wife, mother and owner of a multimillion-dollar company, and with nail-biting honesty, she shares her mistakes, weaknesses and the many challenges she surmounted to get where she is today. This book will motivate you, but more importantly, it will teach you how to accept who you are and put yourself first so you can be better for the people God places in your life.

TITLE: “THE 5 LOVE LANGUAGES: THE SECRET TO LOVE THAT LASTS” Genre: Non-fiction, family/relationship Author: Gary Chapman Publisher: Northfield Cost: $19.95 Love is the greatest emotion and something we all desire and crave in our everyday lives. We all have our own ideas of what love means and what it should look and feel like. Unfortunately, often what one person needs is not necessarily what her partner desires. Chapman describes the different love languages to include physical touch, words of affirmation, acts of kindness, etc. So, while you may need to be affirmed with words, your partner may need your touch.

If you’re looking to experience greater intimacy in your relationships, this book will teach you how to communicate in a way that will improve your love life.

Tanya Marie Lewis has published several books. She is the publisher of BTV Media and founder of Handmaidens in the Marketplace, a network for women in the workforce.

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COAST CARES

Making a lasting difference — one person at a time Over 100 years ago, The Salvation Army raised its flag to serve the neediest along the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Today, our programs continue to give hope to people of all ages with various needs and challenges.

During the 2018 weeks of disaster response, we have sent three local disaster units and provided 16 local personnel deployments in the aftermath of hurricanes Florence and Michael. The Salvation Army throughout the U.S. has responded with thousands of meals, snacks and drinks, as well as emotional and spiritual care, cleanup kits and hygiene kits — representing 74,943 employee and volunteer hours.

During 2019, we plan to establish several trained teams prepared for response as needed both locally and in response to state emergencies.

Roy Fisher, canteen volunteer said, “The residents I have encountered have been awesome.

It has been very rewarding to assist people that have a faith that they all say, ‘at least we are alive’ and ‘give God all the glory.’ I have seen God’s presence at work while on deployment.”

An anonymous 10-year-old boy approached a canteen while getting a meal and said, “God has taken care of us. He has been bringing darkness to light, and The Salvation Army is the light.”

Dina Garbin, canteen volunteer said, “Going to help with disaster relief work has humbled me by giving back in a time of need. The spiritual aspect alone has made me appreciate life and each day God gives me.”

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Area January-February 2019 144

Command oversees the lower six Mississippi counties. In Gulfport and Pascagoula, we provide shelter/cold shelter, meals/food packs, homeless prevention, showers, laundry services, food pantry services, clothing, fire victim assistance, Christmas assistance,

referrals and utility assistance, along with other case-by-case assistance. The Lucedale Service Unit provides clothing, food pantry, Christmas assistance and emergency overnight assistance.

The programs of the Kroc Center in Biloxi are here to help you meet your goals — creative, athletic or health and fitness, or just spending quality time with your family.

How do we make a lasting difference? Ultimately our goal is to create an environment in which individuals are empowered to create a personal path toward stability. We are implementing solutions that provide longterm changes. In 2019, our Pathway

By Major Anita Caldwell

of Hope program will provide families with steps that break the cycle of poverty. Our Angel Tree program will continue to be based on life changes and classes that provide those life shifts to independence from social service programs. We plan to implement workforce development programs that mentor the marginalized toward stable lifestyles. We will continue to offer access to free adult rehabilitation programs that provide life-changing futures.

Major Bradley Caldwell and I are the new area commanders for the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We are excited about the possibilities and opportunities the future holds. If you are interested in joining a great advisory board team or one of our advisory councils, please contact them. Believing in the power of women, they plan to organize a Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary. If you are a mountain mover, please contact us and be one of the first members.

Join us in making a lasting difference!

Call (228) 207-1218 for more information.

Born in Olean, New York, Major Anita Caldwell served in three appointments in Arkansas and Oklahoma with her husband, Bradley, as corps officers before serving as regional leaders in Moldova and Romania. After this appointment, they served in Moscow, Russia, as education officers for six years, followed by four years in the country of Georgia as regional leaders and nearly a year in London serving at International Headquarters. They come to the Gulf Coast from four years of service in Waco, Texas, with a total of 25 years of service with The Salvation Army.