Gulf Coast Woman January-February 2020

OMAN

COMPLIMENTARY

GULF COAST

JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2020

Recalibrate SPECIAL CONTENT

Access to health care, here at home

10

Steps to better health

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

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

Serving the Gulf Coast for 18 years • • • • •

Laparoscopic Surgery All aspects of Gynecology Normal and High Risk Obstetrics Minimally Invasive Outpatient Surgery Robotic Assisted Surgeries including Hysterectomy • 4-D Ultrasound

Quality Care One Patient At A Time Michael J. Christie, MD, FACOG Board Certified OB/GYN

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

Kelly Mask, FNP-C Board Certified Nurse Practitioner

Aesthetic Services Available

Annual Wellness Exams Treatment of Menopause Pelvic Pain Uterine Ablation Birth Control & Hormones

MAIN OFFICE

Ocean Springs (228) 818-0025

January-February 2020

2 Government St., Suite I-4 2113

BILOXI OFFICE

(228) 374-3749 147 Reynoir St., Suite 102

u o Y w e N k o o L w e N

2020

50% OFF

WINTER CLEARANCE SALE REBECA FAIRLEY, Owner and WHITNEY DUBUISSON, Manager are the

Women behind the up and coming styles and trends at Panache.

We are so excited about 2020 and all the New Items we will be bringing to the Coast. Stay tuned into our Panache Apparel and Accessories Facebook page and Instagram (Panachegpt) to be the first to see all the new arrivals.

Please Join us for a

GULF COAST WOMAN MAGAZINE LADIES NIGHT FEBRUARY 4 • 5PM TO 7PM Food, Drinks, Specials and Giveaways!!!!!

RSVP on the Gulf Coast Woman Magazine Event Page if you are attending!!!!

9364 Three Rivers Rd. (behind Walmart in Gulfport) | 228.822.0120 Monday-Friday 9:30 am to 5:30 pm | Saturday - 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

www.gcwmultimedia.com

3

Celebrating

Years!

• Private Duty Nursing

• Elderly and Disabled Waiver Provider

• Pediatric Nursing

• EPSDT Provider

• Skilled Nursing Care

• In-Facility Care

• Assisted Daily Living Care

• VA Respite Provider

• Homemakers

• Worker’s Comp

• Companion Care

• Insurance Cases

• Post-Operative Care

• Supplemental Staffing

• ID/DD Waiver Provider

PLEASE CONTACT NMI FOR IMMEDIATE HEALTH CARE OPPORTUNITIES ACROSS THE GULF COAST!

228-385-9196 NURSINGMGT.COM Follow us on Facebook 4

January-February 2020

NURSING MANAGEMENT, INC. Nothing is more important than meeting the needs of our clients.

• 24-Hour Personnel Availability • Free Client Assessment • RN, LPN, CNA, Personal Care Assistant

www.gcwmultimedia.com

5

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

William Colgin Brian Pearse Brandi Stage Lisa Tilley-Newman

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Farrah Underwood

ADVERTISE

FOUNDER

Angela Bruni

(228) 539-2422

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

ON THE COVER

Dorothy P. Wilson

OMAN

COMPLIMENTARY

GULF COA ST

DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR

2020 JANUARY-FEBRUARY

Crystal Scretching

Recalibrate

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER Jennifer Gentile

SPECIAL CONTENT

10

Steps to better health

Photographer: Brandi Stage Location: Brandi Stage Portraiture Makeup: Haleigh Bullock Hair: Ryan Merrill of Salon Rouge

COVER SUBJECTS Leah Tennyson Rodgers

Access to healthcare, here at home

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alyssa Ashmore Jasmine Ball Krystal Ben Karol Brandt Jackie Castro-Cooper Crissy Cox Chris Dearman Adrienne Elliott Jocelyn Gavin-Lane Natalie Guess Krystle Hilliard Yekaterina Karpitskaya Robin Killeen

Dr. Philip Levin April Lollar Natasha Love Tina Perkins Veronica Ratcliff Shelia Rivers Leah Tennyson Rodgers Kathy Rodgers Dr. Pamela Tuli Heather Young Angelyn Treutel Zeringue Kathy Brown van Zutphen

A BANK WITH

CONTACT US 3451 Washington Ave., Suite B, Gulfport, MS 39507

(228) 539-2422 CustomerService@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com © 2020 Gulf Coast Woman is published 8 times per year and is available free of charge. We encourage your comments, suggestions and submissions, however, we unsolicited documents or manuscripts. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

community VALUES

Whether you’re starting a new business, looking for a home loan, or saving for the future, we are investing in our customers and our community!

6

January-February 2020

King Cakes Now available

Get into the carnival spirit, and grab a homemade Mardi Gras King Cake from Lounge Nocherie.

laissez les bon temps rouler 9380 Central Avenue • D’Iberville, MS 39540 • 888–752–9772 • ScarletPearlCasino.com • Must be 21 or older to gamble. King Cakes available beginning January 3, 2020. Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort reserves all rights to cancel or modify any program at any time.

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

7

JAN • FEB 2020

contents Healthier You / 42 Style / 75 Home & Family / 90 Success / 111 Money / 116 Food & Fun / 123 Fill Your Cup / 129

HAPPY

8

January-February 2020

Mardi Gras

228.822.9870 OFFICE www.owenandco.com 2208 18th Street, Suite B Gulfport, MS 39501 Sherry Owen

BROKER/OWNER owensherryl@aol.com | 228.760.2815 CELL

JUST LISTED!

REDUCED!

REDUCED!

opening doors for you BACK BAY WATER VIEW

NEW CONSTRUCTION

BACK BAY WATERFRONT

4 BD | 7 BA | 5,916 SF | MLS #354144 2322 BEAU CHENE DR., BILOXI

4 BD | 3.5 BA | 2,709 SF | MLS #347559 CARRIAGEWOOD DR., LOT #7, GULFPORT

5 BD | 4.5 BA | 3,708 SF | MLS #354705 111 SPANISH POINT RD., OCEAN SPRINGS

Unique, resort-like compound has 3 fireplaces, gorgeous staircase, 750 gallon saltwater aquarium. Fully enclosed lanai w/ beach entry swimming pool and waterfall spa. Lush landscaping, outdoor kitchen.

Gorgeous custom home with split, open floor plan. Formal Dining, Great Room w/fireplace, Breakfast Room. Large Screened-in Porch. Upstairs has bonus room that could be finished out for an additional 371 sq.ft.

$459,900

Large dining and great room w/high ceilings, crown molding and gorgeous wood floors. Magnificent kitchen with state-of-the-art appliances. Fully fenced yard, outdoor cooking area, fully screened-in porch. $825,000

2.4 ACRES

WINDANCE GOLF COURSE

BEACHFRONT

4 BD | 3 BA | 2,613 SF | MLS #351577 11749 HONEY BEAR LN., SAUCIER

5 BD | 3 BA | 3,912 SF | MLS #351357 19329 CHAMPION CIR., GULFPORT

3 BD | 4 BA | 2,611 SF | MLS #347705 4828 W. BEACH BLVD., GULFPORT

$1,180,000

Custom home in ‘’The Woods’’ in Saucier. This home sits on 2.4 acres with a hidden creek at the back. Open plan with living and dining room.

Custom kitchen opening to both the living/dining rooms. Split bedroom plan. Double garage attached to the home - 2nd garage is detached.

Perfect for your outdoor toys or custom vehicle!

High ceilings & windows give great views of Golf Course and Lake.

Large Master w/ newly updated bath en-suite. Formal Dinging, large kitchen w/ breakfast room. Den with 19’ ceilings, wood floors and fireplace.

COMMERCIAL FOR LEASE

BEACH VIEW

BACK BAY WATERFRONT

CLASS A | 9,224 SF | MLS #350373 1414 25TH AVE., GULFPORT

2 BD | 2 BA | 1,730 SF | MLS #345955 119 WINTERS LN., LONG BEACH

3 BD | 5 BA | 6,118 SF | MLS #356008 104 SPANISH POINT CT., OCEAN SPRINGS

$359,800

$598,000

JUST LISTED!

$358,800

Gorgeous home by Gant-Brown Premier Builders. 10’-12’ ceilings, solid white oak flooring, kitchen has wonderful center island w/Quartz countertops lots of storage. Large porch & balcony overlooking the beach.

Two stories on Hwy. 49. Renovated in 1999, beautiful exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, neutral paint. Many offices, restrooms, conference rooms, receptionist area, vault, file rooms, storage rooms, kitchens.

$18,448

Great home! Beach view less than a block away from the Gulf.

9’ ceiling, open floor plan, wood floors, fireplace, really nice home with living room, dining room, large kitchen with eat-in bar area.

$258,000

EVERYTHING you could dream of! Beautiful waterfront home on 2.1 acres in very private setting. This home is located on deep water, and has a boat house, and salt water pool. TWO Double garage and double carport. www.gcwmultimedia.com 9 This home is stucco, with tile roof, very open floor plan. $2,800,000

HOLLY

LEMOINE-RAYMOND BROKER / OWNER / PRODUCER LICENSED IN

MISSISSIPPI

228.466.6643

529 ULMAN AVENUE BAY ST LOUIS, MS 39520

I 30am S W -11:

11 O t a SH days

E Sun M O O N G 2 H on W

tch a W

For 10

Jan

Fe 5y r ua

1 N

a bru

ry 9

Powered b y

more info, contact Sherry January-February 2020 Moxley Seaman (706) 833-0123| MyCoastHomeTV@gmail.com

Awareness

Love

DR. ALLISON WALL

Faith

DR. OLIVIA HIGHTOWER

Happy new year

DR. STEPHANIE FUSSELL

Celebrate New Season

Peace

SUPPORT

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT ALL FOUR LOCATIONS

Hematology Oncology Partners

GULFPORT 1340 Broad Avenue | Suite 270 BILOXI 920 Tommy Munro Drive BILOXI 147 Reynoir Street | Suite 204 BAY ST. LOUIS 835 Thames Avenue

Memorial Physician Clinics

228-575-1234

www.gcwmultimedia.com

11

mississippi gulf coast

community college

HOME OF THE 2019

NJCAA NATIONAL

CHA 12

January-February 2020

PIONS

LEFT: MGCCC head football coach Jack Wright with the National Championship Trophy. Wright has led two different Mississippi community college teams to national championships.

BELOW: Running back Austin Bolton was selected as Most Valuable Player by the National Junior College Athletic Association for the National Championship game on December 5. Bolton had one reception for six yards and made 25 rushes for 70 yards and two touchdowns during the game.

MGCCC wins national football championship through

CULTURE OF SUCCESS

There’s been a saying at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College this year: “We just keep winning.” Probably the most notable win has been the National Junior College Athletic Association football championship on December 5 against Lackawanna College. The 24-13 thriller at Carnie Smith Stadium in Pittsburgh, Kansas, closed a perfect 2019 season for the MGCCC Bulldogs, marking their 12th win this season.

Gulf Coast previously won national football titles in 1948, 1971, 1984 and 2007. They also claimed national titles in women’s basketball (1973) and golf (2018), making this title the eighth national win for Gulf Coast athletics.

MGCCC’s 11 sports teams regularly win state and region titles. In 2018, the golf team won the NJCAA Division II

golf championship. In 2019, golf team member Colin Troxler won the individual national title. In addition, both men’s and women’s basketball teams are undefeated this year, with the women posting an 8-0 record and the men at 7-0.

“Our student-athletes do a great job on and off the field,” said Dr. Mary S. Graham, MGCCC president. “They work hard and benefit from the culture of success created at the college by their coaches and the faculty and staff who provide the leadership for their achievements in the classroom and in the community. These students succeed because they are surrounded by college personnel who go above and beyond every day.”

MGCCCBULLDOGS.COM • TWITTER: @MGCCCBULLDOGS • FACEBOOK: MGCCCBULLDOGS www.gcwmultimedia.com 13

Dates

SAVE THESE

Learn success strategies

Support music for youth

January 11 WINTER INTERLUDE 6 p.m.

White Pillars Restaurant Price: $100 (228) 896-4276 The Winter Interlude presented by the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra Guild, supports music opportunities for youth.

Pick out some new plants

January 24-26 GULF COAST ORCHID SOCIETY SHOW AND PLANT SALE Friday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Gautier Convention Center Free admission Beautiful exhibits and many plants available for purchase.

Run (or walk) the bridge January 25 CASINO BRIDGE RUN 8 a.m.

Races start in front of Golden Nugget Casino (251) 980-1045, register at www. casinobridgerun. com, 10K/5K run/ walk. After party with free food and beer, Golden Nugget’s pool.

14

January-February 2020

January 28 BEST PRACTICES FROM THE BOSS: JONATHAN JONES, HARRAH’S GULF COAST 8 a.m.

Knight Nonprofit Center Cost: $25 for Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber members, $35 non-members mscoastchamber.com Join Jonathan Jones, senior vice president and general manager of Harrah’s Gulf Coast, to gain insight on best business practices and hear how he got where he is today.

Go out with your girls

Feb. 7 BUBBLES AND BONBONS: A GALENTINE’S DAY AFFAIR 6 p.m.

Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art Tickets available at georgeohr.org Enjoy tasting sparkling wines and sampling sweet and savory delicacies from the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s most acclaimed restaurants.

See the boats

Feb. 7-9 BILOXI BOAT SHOW Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum and Convention Center Friday, noon-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

(251) 478-7469 Adults $10, children 15 and younger free, military $8

Women’s cancer is not always

PINK

Caring. Healing. Guiding. Every step of the way.

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness month.

Resolve to get your cervical cancer screening up to date in the New Year.

The Medical Oncology Group has been serving the community for over 30 years. We feel a strong connection to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the people we serve. Our team offers the latest in cutting-edge treatments close to home, in multiple convenient locations, so there is no need to travel far.

Michelle Holt, NP

|

Pamela J Tuli, MD

|

In addition to expert, all-encompassing treatment, we consider it our personal responsibility to stay by our patients’ sides every step of the way. We oversee every aspect of a patient’s care. Above all, we serve as a guiding light so our patients always know they are never alone.

P.V. Pande, MD

|

Lauren Hitt, NP

|

Edye Denius, NP

228.575.1234 TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com Bay St. Louis • Diamondhead • Gulfport • Biloxi • Ocean Springs • Wiggins www.gcwmultimedia.com

15

from our experts

Words to live by

“During sleep, our minds consolidate the memories we’ve created in the prior day, muscles grow, tissues repair and we synthesize hormones.

Adequate

sleep improves learning and problem-

solving skills. It helps people make decisions, concentrate and be creative.”

“Flood your life with light and order. Get rid and old, of unnecessary possessions that hinder you and make you a prisoner of the past.

This includes people. Do not let others’ negative energy and internal conflicts hook you into their story and make you feel sad, angry, guilty or afraid. Your life is your story, and only you determine how you tell it.”

-Dr. Yekaterina Karpitskaya Column, Page xx

- Dr. Philip L. Levin Column, Page 50

minutia

“When you fast, it changes the function of cells and hormones by dropping your insulin levels and increasing your production of human growth hormone. It also initiates important cellular repair. It’s almost like an internal

cellular exfoliation, shedding the old cells and allowing your body to produce new, healthy cells.”

-Natalie Guess Column, Page 74

“Not all sugar is equal. Sugar occurs naturally

“Along with taking time to sit down and

set goals, it also requires focus

in foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy and even

intentionally

whole grains. This type of sugar has little effect

and lots of thought. Sometimes life happens, and many

on your body’s blood sugar and is considered

people abandon their goals. One thing is constant:

healthy. Fruits and vegetables have other

Intentional goal setting works. However, it’s up to you

components like fiber that allow

to make the goals stick.”

our bodies to process that sugar differently. It is the

- Jocelyn Gavin-Lane Column, Page 70

added

sugars that are harmful.”

- Dr. Pamela Tuli Column, Page 44 “It doesn’t matter how you implement quality

time in your family; it’s just essential that it

“We feel like standard portion sizes

happens. Spending family quality time together

look ‘skimpy’ and reeling in our portions

promotes strong family bonds.”

means we will still be hungry. That’s

- Shelia Rivers Column, Page 64

not true at all. With the right strategies, you can master proper

portion

sizing and kick overeating in 2020,

which will help you reach and maintain your healthy weight goals.”

- Karol Brandt Column, Page 52

16

January-February 2020

WE BUILD A HOME THAT IS AN EXPRESSION OF WHO LIVES INSIDE

EXCELLENCE • EXQUISITE DESIGN OVER 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE MASTER CRAFTSMANSHIP Paramount Contracting is a leading custom home builder on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Paramount Contracting was established with the passion to provide extraordinary homes to ordinary people. Bo Ladner, a licensed general contractor since 1999, prides himself on producing superior quality custom homes while integrating innovative design, technology and craftsmanship. He specializes in creating one-of-a-kind custom homes that build a reflection of you.

More info at paramountbuilds.com or email paramountcontrac@bellsouth.net

AWARD-WINNING HOME BUILDERS

Let’s get started!

Call (228) 209-9160

www.gcwmultimedia.com

17

most vulnerable

PROTECTING THE

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Angelique Carter White lies awake at night, thinking about her cases.

Sometimes, she rejoices. Other times, she grieves. Either way, she prays — asking God for the wisdom and discernment to protect his most innocent.

“I am exceptionally proud of the work I have done in child advocacy over the course of 18 years,” says White — a wife, mother and guardian ad litem (GAL) for Harrison County Youth Court. “I have taken part in the reunification, as well as the creation, of many new families over the course of almost two decades.”

Although White grew up in a home of strong female role models, her father was abusive, and she also endured bullying at school. Without the example of her mother, sister and maternal grandmother, she says, “I would have been destroyed.”

“I have been able to channel the experiences of my childhood into advocating for children and families who feel they have no options and no hope, and to show them that you can make it through anything,” White says. “People need hope. And I am an example of the outcome of having hope.”

A graduate of Loyola School of Law, White got involved in child advocacy by serving as a GAL in termination-of-parental-rights cases. After two years, she says, “I knew I had found my calling — something just clicked, as they say.”

“Everything I had been through and survived suddenly made sense from the perspective that I knew I could help others overcome adversity and show them that it does not have to define you,” she adds.

White became a full-time GAL in 2003, and since then, she has seen numerous families at their most vulnerable — being broken apart, then put back together.

“Many times the makeup of the family isn’t the same at the end as it was in the beginning; often, new families are created,” she says. “No scenario is disappointing when it leads to the restoration, reconciliation or creation of family.”

White applauds the parents she’s watched battle addiction and conquer lifelong demons to regain custody of their children. As for the children themselves, there are too many success stories to count. One young man she worked with, who was raised in an environment of substance abuse, now attends medical school, and just recently, a pair of siblings was adopted into their forever homes.

“Seeing them thrive in healthy and non-abusive environments is so rewarding,” White says. “I look forward to seeing their achievements and their bright futures.”

As many families as White has helped throughout her career, she considers her own her greatest accomplishment.

She and her husband, Darren, have been married for 30 years and have two children — Hannah, 24, and Christian, 14. The love of the females in her family, as well as a strong faith in God, made White optimistic that she one day would have a peaceful home and a spouse who cherished her and their children.

Her Gulfport-based clan loves camping together and traveling while White is an avid cook — a skill she acquired with mentoring from the first judge she worked with, Senior Status Judge Michael H. Ward.

“Being a GAL is what I do, it’s not who I am,” White says.

“But it is a representation of what I am at heart — a protector.”

“People need hope.

And I am an example of the outcome of having hope.”

— Angelique Carter White

18

January-February 2020

The White family: Hannah, Christian, Angelique, and Darren

A New Beginning.

That’s a Good Thing When you join Keesler Federal, you’re more than a customer—you’re a member.

Stop by and discover all that we can do for you.

• Free Checking & Perks Checking accounts • Savings, Certificates and Money Market

• Free Online & Mobile Banking • Credit Cards with rates starting

• Real Estate & Vehicle Loans

• Member Giveback program with

accounts earning higher dividends at affordable rates

as low as Prime

monthly cash and prizes

Learn more at kfcu.org Federally Insured by NCUA Membership and credit eligibility required. NMLS #408911

www.gcwmultimedia.com

19

MARDI GRAS MUSEUM

Past queens celebrate at the Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras Museum’s grand opening gala Nov. 14. From left, Randi Mueller, Kate Rushton, Eileen Mahoney Ezell and Susan Cain.

Pageantry preserved With the Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras Museum established in its new home, the good times continue to roll in downtown Biloxi.

Formerly located in the Magnolia Hotel building, the museum has moved to 792 Howard Ave. A grand opening celebration recently ushered in a new era for the local landmark.

“One of the most satisfying parts of my job is talking with people who have little or no knowledge of the history or significance of Mardi Gras and explaining the holiday’s connection to Easter and Lent and the culture of the Mississippi Gulf Coast as a whole,” says Tammy Smith, the museum’s executive director. “It’s a party for the people and a cherished tradition.”

Formerly called the Mardi Gras Museum, the renamed museum reopened with an expanded name “to reflect our continuing goal of representing all of the Mississippi Gulf

Coast’s Carnival celebration.”

“You’ll see that goal in our exhibits,” she adds, “which include (items from the) Gulf Coast Carnival Association, as well as Neptune, Billikins, Les Masquees, Revelers and others.”

The museum is meant to be an immersive experience, with guests invited to take selfies in king and queen thrones or watch a movie featuring locals whose names are synonymous with Mardi Gras. Kids can play dress up in a costume corner, and art lovers will appreciate an abstract mural, by Teri Gandour, created using damaged or unknown costumes.

Another mural outside, by artist Kate Rushton, lets visitors of any size wear a royal mantle — making for a perfect photo opportunity. So far, visitors from as far afield as Indiana, Berlin and Quebec have received the museum warmly.

MORE INFO

The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and closed major holidays. General admission is $8, $7 for seniors (over 60), $7 for military (with ID) and $5 for students (12 and under).

20

January-February 2020

Blue Dog Bistro is a place where great people come together to positively impact our guests, each other and the community we serve.

Blue Dog Bistro is the first vegan, keto, paleo, and gluten free friendly restaurant on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. We are inspired by the growing desire to eat healthy, and we believe that by creating a unique menu with a delicious variety of nutritious options we can promote a wholesome way of living. Our goal is to motivate the community to living a healthier, cleaner lifestyle.

Specialty Coffees

@bluedogbistro

Private Parties/Catering and Gift Cards Available!

Expanding to Dinner Hours Soon!

1801-A Government St. | Ocean Springs 228-447-4023 | bluedogbistro.com Golf Cart Taxi Service: 228-297-1234 Hours of Operation: Tues-Thur 7:00am-3:00pm | Fri-Sun 7:00am-4:00pm

tsb travel studio boutique where travel meets style

Honeymoon?

Going on a

Talk to Us

601.336.0658 info@travelstudioboutique.com

www.gcwmultimedia.com

21

MARDI GRAS

AN INSIDER’S LOOK

Ever wondered how the Coast’s spectacular Mardi Gras balls come together? Long before the evenings of glitz and glamour, krewes are busy arranging everything from attire to dance routines. Here’s what happens prior to the pageantry.

BY VERONICA RATCLIFF

Mardi Gras ball night is not just a single day of celebration. An entire year of planning and preparation go into the big event. º

GETTING STARTED

Most krewes have a captain and a group of officers who select a ball theme, costumes and music for the upcoming carnival season. Some krewes start in the spring with a new member party, where they invite people to join. At this time, a group leader is chosen and groups are formed.

The group leader is the liaison who works closely with the officers to relay messages, etc., to the groups.

During a summer reveal party, each group receives dance music and costume design from the officers. Most krewes keep the court secret, which includes maids, dukes, the king and queen, as well as the individual group costumes and music. On ball night, the captain and her officers see the vision they have been working on for months come together.

FALLING INTO PLACE

Starting in the fall, group leaders begin lining up choreographers, seamstresses and a place for practices, which typically happen once a week — or twice closer to ball time. All the krewe members are getting excited, and piece by piece, things come together.

Rehearsal is typically a week or a few days prior to ball night. This is always fun, as the groups get to see the dance routines their peers have worked hard to perfect.

Veronica Ratcliff, center, with Les Belle Fleurs

A

ROYAL REVUE

BALL NIGHT

It’s showtime! Lots of effort has gone into making this a fun, entertaining event. Dramatic makeup, gorgeous costumes and themed décor make the evening feel special. The groups are ready to perform their dances for the audience. Everyone is eager to see the beautiful court and who is part of it. Once the tableau is read to announce the theme of the ball, followed by the group dances, then the court is revealed and the party starts with lots of fun, festive fellowship.

Ratcliff is a marketing strategist for Gulf Coast Woman and has been an active member of Les Belle Fleurs Mardi Gras krewe for 15 years. She was the krewe’s 2013 captain and is a current board member.

22

January-February 2020

(Neptune’s 2019 queen was inadvertently omitted in the December issue) KREWE OF NEPTUNE QUEEN VENUS XXXV: Cari-Ann Dunning Mardi Gras ball: Neptune Coronation Ball Feb. 15, 7 p.m.

Biloxi Civic Center Tickets are $100.

For more info: www.kreweofneptune.org

,000

,000

,000

9 $67

9 $49

9 $79

101 Grosvenor Pl. | Waveland, MS MLS #353177

313 St John St. | Bay St. Louis, MS MLS #356300

412 S. Beach Blvd. | Bay St. Louis, MS MLS #348612

Custom Built home, steps to the beach,

Located in Old Town, Gorgeous home with unique floorpan. Extra lots available for purchase.

Experience Beach Front Property at its best! Walking distance to all downtown shopping and entertainment.

3 BD | 2 BA | 2,244 SF

3 BD | 3.5 BA | 2,428 SF

or relax by your saltwater pool.

4 BD | 3 BA | 3,588 SF

,000

,000

5 $42

5 $59

,000

9 $54

25168 Hillbrooke Ln. | Pass Christian, MS MLS #346230

101 Oaks Blvd. | Bay St. Louis, MS MLS #350016

12030 Rd. 204 | Carriere, MS MLS #350487

Fabulous Home with Acreage, Lots of special features including pool, and Extra acres available for purchase.

Grand Luxury Living on corner lot, beautiful landscaping, sunroom, and outside entertaining area.

Country Living in this grand home with acreage, a pond, a pool, a pavilion and more!

4 BD | 2.5 BA | 3,722 SF

4 BD | 3.5 BA | 3,564 SF

4 BD | 2.5 BA | 4,552 SF

GIVE US A CALL FOR YOUR PRIVATE TOUR 228.466.6643 We Have Our Very Own TV Series: INSIDE OUT W/ HL RAYMOND PROPERTIES

WATCH SEASON 2 ON SUNDAYS STARTING JAN. 5TH ON WGNO! HOLLY LEMOINE-RAYMOND, BROKER/OWNER

529 Ulman Avenue | Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520 www.gcwmultimedia.com 228.466.6643 | hlraymondproperties@gmail.com | www.hlraymondproperties.com

23

MARDI GRAS Jan. 5 ANNUAL TWELFTH NIGHT BILOXI 5 p.m.

Biloxi Visitors Center 1050 Beach Blvd., Biloxi

Biloxi Civic Center 578 Howard Ave., Biloxi (228) 860-8266

Jan. 18 MYSTIC KREWE OF THE SEAHORSE BALL — “MUTINY ON THE BAY” PIRATE PARTY 7 p.m.

Longfellow Civic Center 122 Court St., Bay St. Louis $15 per person Jan. 25 SECOND LINERS MARDI GRAS CLUB — “A 25-YEAR LEGACY OF BLACK AND GOLD” 7 p.m.

Gruich Community Center 591 Howard Ave., Biloxi (228) 424-8085 $30 per person ANNUAL KREWE OF CASA MARDI GRAS GALA 7-11 p.m.

Bay St. Louis Community Hall 301 Blaize Ave., Bay Saint Louis (228) 344-0419 $40 general admission, sponsorship available LE BELLE FEMME BALL — “CELEBRATE THE COAST” 7 p.m.

D

’t let n o

CARNIVAL EVENTS

Jan. 31 KREWE OF ATHENA BALL — “ATHENA GOES LIVE” 7:30 p.m.

Gruich Community Center 591 Howard Ave., Biloxi koagulfcoast@gmail.com By invite only ANNUAL KREWE OF VETERANS BALL Doors open at 7 p.m., and the coronation starts at 8 p.m.

VFW Post 3373 4724 Vega St., Pascagoula (228) 769-8387 $20 per person Feb. 1 ANNUAL KREWE OF NEREIDS MARDI GRAS BALL 8 p.m.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum and Convention Center 2350 Beach Boulevard, Biloxi (228) 342-9232, info@thekreweofnereids. com Ball is free, but invitation required, after party is $75 Feb. 8 NORTH BAY AREA CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION BALL — “VIVA LAS VEGAS” Doors open at 6:30 p.m., tableau starts at 7:30 p.m.

Turn to

Joppa Shriners Temple 13280 Shriners Blvd., Biloxi (228) 219-1760 $20 per person KREWE OF VESTA BALL — “LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL” 7:30 p.m.

B.E. “MAC” McGinty Civic Center 2902 Shortcut Road, Pascagoula (228) 219-2929 By invitation only KREWE OF GEMINI 51ST ANNUAL CARNIVAL BALL 8 p.m.

Biloxi Civic Center 578 Howard Ave., Biloxi kreweofgeminigulfport@gmail.com ANNUAL KREWE UNIQUE MARDI GRAS PARADE Downtown Ocean Springs 2 p.m., battle of the bands begins at noon on Front Beach ANNUAL OCEAN SPRINGS ELKS MARDI GRAS PARADE Downtown Ocean Springs 1 p.m.

Feb. 14 ANNUAL CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION OF LONG BEACH MARDI GRAS PARADE Begins on Cleveland Avenue, Long Beach 6 p.m.

CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION OF LONG BEACH BALL — “DIAMOND JUBILEE” 8 p.m.

Nereids Parade Photography by Tm Isbell

It’s Mardi Gras Laissez les bon temps rouler

Shop at Toomey’s!

Main Store | 755-A McRae Ave. - Mobile, AL | 251-450-5012 Carnival Museum | 355 Government St. - Mobile, AL | 251-431-7666 Pop Up Shop | Eastern Shore Centre | Suite 600 30500 State Hwy 181 - Spanish Fort, AL 36527

24

January-February 2020

!

0 e n i h 2 s 20is your year to

Shelton Jewelers

W. P.

Est. 1945

228.875.4842 www.wpsheltonjewelers.com 1516 Government St., Ocean Springs, MS www.gcwmultimedia.com

25

MARDI GRAS St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School 4321 Espy Ave., Long Beach (228) 323-7559 Tickets are $40 Feb. 15 KREWE OF HARLEQUINS BALL — “THE GREATEST SHOW ON THE COAST” 7 p.m.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum and Convention Center 2350 Beach Blvd., Biloxi (228) 697-4343 Invitation only KREWE OF NEPTUNE CORONATION BALL 7 p.m.

Biloxi Civic Center 578 Howard Ave., Biloxi $100 per person ANNUAL GAUTIER MEN’S CLUB MARDI GRAS PARADE 7 p.m.

Highway 90, Gautier (228) 357-0298

CARNIVAL EVENTS

ASSOCIATION MARDI GRAS PARADE 1 p.m.

Begins on Ingalls Avenue, Pascagoula (228) 990-1456 ANNUAL KREWE OF GEMINI MARDI GRAS DAY PARADE 2 p.m.

Downtown Gulfport (228) 547-4744 ANNUAL KREWE OF DIAMONDHEAD MARDI GRAS PARADE 1 p.m.

Begins on Gex Drive, Diamondhead

Feb. 24 ANNUAL GULF COAST CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION CORONATION BALL 8 p.m.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Coliseum and Convention Center 2350 Beach Blvd., Biloxi (228) 432-8806 Free to view the ball, tickets available at Mardi Gras Museum

ANNUAL KREWE OF NEPTUNE NIGHT MARDI GRAS PARADE 5:30 p.m.

Downtown Biloxi

ANNUAL MYSTIC KREWE OF THE SEAHORSE “LUNDI GRAS” PARADE 5 p.m.

Begins at Bookter St., Bay St Louis

ANNUAL KREWE OF SALACIA PARADE 5:30 p.m. (Immediately follows the Krewe of Neptune) Downtown Biloxi

Feb. 25 ANNUAL GULF COAST CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION MARDI GRAS PARADE 1 p.m.

Downtown Biloxi (228) 432-8806

ANNUAL KREWE OF LITTLE RASCALS CHILDREN MARDI GRAS PARADE 1 p.m.

Begins at Delmas Avenue and Magnolia Street, Pascagoula (228) 219-1114

Feb. 23 ANNUAL D’IBERVILLE/ST. MARTIN NORTH BAY AREA MARDI GRAS PARADE 1:30 p.m.

Begins on Lemoyne Boulevard in St. Martin

ANNUAL MYSTIC KREWE OF PINE ISLAND MARDI GRAS PARADE 1:30 p.m.

Begins on John’s Bayou Road, Vancleave

ANNUAL ST. PAUL MARDI GRAS PARADE 1 p.m.

Begins at Davis Avenue and Highway 90, Pass Christian

Feb. 16 ANNUAL KREWE OF NEREIDS MARDI GRAS PARADE Noon Begins at Drinkwater Road and Highway 90, Bay St. Louis (228) 342-9232

LES CAVALIERS BALL

ANNUAL KREWE OF GEMINI MARDI GRAS NIGHT PARADE 6 p.m.

Begins at 19th Street, Gulfport (228) 547-4744 ANNUAL KREWE OF DIAMONDS MARDI GRAS PARADE 1 p.m.

Bookter Street and Necaise Avenue (228) 342-0883 or (228) 671-1471

KREWE OF BARKLOXI PAW-RADE Registration/check in starts at noon Biloxi Town Green 710 Beach Blvd., Biloxi Feb. 21 OCEAN SPRINGS CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION NIGHT MARDI GRAS PARADE 7 p.m.

Begins at Porter Ave. and Front Beach Drive (228) 355-0146 ST. PAUL’S CARNIVAL ASSOCIATION BALL St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School 4321 Espy Ave., Long Beach www.stpaulcarnival.com $50 per person Feb. 22 LES BELLE FLEURS BALL 7 p.m.

Gruich Community Center 591 Howard Ave., Biloxi Les_belle_fleurs@yahoo.com $25 per person ANNUAL JACKSON COUNTY CARNIVAL

26

January-February 2020

8 p.m.

IP Casino Resort 850 Bayview Ave., Biloxi

Pass Christian Parade Photography by Tim Isbell

From reasonably-priced starter homes to stately lakeside retreats, Florence Gardens is full of choices for any stage of life. Our 450-acre master-planned community in Gulfport has four neighborhoods, five reputable builder partners and countless world-class amenities, including a 27-acre lake, a pool, a private park, a Garden, a Clubhouse, and an independent school for students in grades Pre-K2 through 8.

THE FLORENCE GARDENS COMMUNITY

Build or buy.

Your home, your way.

Now Available!

MOVE-IN READY!

4BR/2.5BA in 2398 SF Stunning gourmet kitchen

By Elliott Homes

ASK ABOUT BONUS!

MOVE-IN READY!

3BR/2.5BA in 2027 SF

Florence Gardens.

It’s part town, part country and altogether perfect.

Visit us today to learn more.

O U R B U I L D E R PA RT N E R S

Spacious great room with natural light

By Elliott Homes

READY SPRING 2020!

Sales Center Open Daily at Magnolia Hall 3BR/2.5BA in 2200 SF

Custom finishes throughout

By McGuire Design & Construction

3BR/2BA in 2134 SF

Professionally designed interiors

By Tootle Homes

12321 Preservation Drive | Gulfport, MS 39503 Weekdays 9am-5pm, or by appointment.

1.7 miles west of Hwy 605

Located on O’Neal Road in Gulfport 3 miles east of Hwy 49

www.gcwmultimedia.com

27

Bayou Realty 228.861.9500 | sales@florencegardens.com | www.florencegardens.com

! t s e B s ’ i ox l i B STAY WITH

LUXURY BEACH FRONT CONDOS

SIENNA ON THE COAST

28

SEA BREEZE

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS ONLINE AT: WWW.BILOXIBEACHRESORTRENTALS.COM OR CALL TODAY 877-9-BILOXI (877.924.5694)

January-February 2020

W ilit e a A an r y P ccep d er TD Di t Y. em

LEGACY TOWERS

OCEAN CLUB

M

BEAU VIEW

Community BUILDING A BETTER

Sponsored Content

ACCESS TO EXCELLENT HEALTH CARE

HERE AT HOME

www.gcwmultimedia.com

29

COMPREHENSIVE CARE

ABOVE & beyond

Memorial was established in 1946 and has grown to be one of the most comprehensive health care systems in the state and Southeast region. We continue to expand facilities and add new staff and equipment to keep pace with ever-changing technology and our growing communities. Our strategic decisions are based on initiatives, which include safety, quality and customer satisfaction.

We are committed to delivering the highest quality treatment while keeping your needs in mind.

Our mission is building a healthier community, which means providing greater access to services you need the most.

BY THE NUMBERS 1.03 B Economic Impact (FY 2018) 4,300+ Employees 300+ Physicians 328 Patient Rooms 100+ Physician Clinics

30

January-February 2020

6 Diagnostic Centers 4 Physical Therapy Centers 3 Nursing Centers 3 Outpatient Surgery Centers 2 Hospitals – Harrison & Stone County

PREVENTATIVE CARE

GET AND STAY healthy

Preventative care is the most important step you can take to manage your health. Screenings catch health conditions before they become serious. Medical professionals look at your risk factors based on your personal health history, current status and family history which could be predictors for future health issues. Take advantage of your annual wellness visit. Memorial has a team of dedicated providers committed to helping you get and stay healthy.

ARE YOU A CURRENT MEMORIAL PATIENT? Manage your care by signing up for MyHealthRecord patient portal to gain access to a portion of your medical record, view lab or imaging results, request appointments and more.

Visit www.gulfportmemorial.com for patient portal, physician clinics and walk-in locations or call (228) 867- 5000.

DID YOU KNOW MEDICARE PART B OFFERS A FREE WELLNESS VISIT EVERY YEAR, IF YOU’RE ELIGIBLE? Preemptive care helps you take specific measures to avoid complications from medical conditions.

You and your healthcare provider develop and update an annual personalized disease and disability prevention plan based on your risk for certain illnesses. Memorial has designated providers trained and dedicated to this initiative to build healthier communities. Some restrictions and rates may apply.

To schedule your Free Medicare Annual Wellness visit or to determine if you are eligible, call (228) 575-1911. www.gcwmultimedia.com

31

CANCER CARE

RIGHT HERE,

at home

The respected, multi-disciplinary team that comprises the Memorial Cancer Center are proud to serve the community with some of the most advanced care strategies, state-of-the-art technology, surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists and other cancer specialists in the region. Getting a cancer diagnosis is frightening and deciding the next steps can be confusing. Memorial offers nurse navigators to assist with any questions you may have. From the beginning of your healing, throughout your treatment plan, we have the experts within our accredited cancer care program to confidently provide you and your family the right care, here at home.

To reach our Cancer Center, call (228) 575-1234.

For Hematologists/Oncologists physician clinic locations, visit www.gulfportmemorial.com

32

January-February 2020

LUNG SCREENING

EARLY DETECTION IS

key

Worldwide, lung cancer is the third most common cancer in women. If you are a current or former smoker, ask your doctor about advanced technology that could save your life - low-dose computed tomography (CT) lung screening available at Memorial. With early detection, the survival rate for lung cancer increases to as high as 92%. Screening is recommended for those who have quit smoking within the last 15 years, even for those that do not have signs or symptoms of lung cancer, and are between the ages of 55 and 77.

In addition, Memorial is among the first hospitals in the United States to utilize robotic bronchoscopy to diagnosis lung nodules. This innovation is used to view the inside of the lungs and obtain a tissue sample for biopsy. The goal of Auris Health’s Monarch™ Platform is to enable earlier and more-accurate diagnosis of small, hard-to-reach nodules in the periphery of the lung. The technology integrates the latest advancements in robotics, software, data science, and endoscopy (the use of small cameras and tools to enter the body through its natural openings).

For Fora directory a directoryofofour ourPulmonologists Pulmonologistsand andfor formore moreinformation information about aboutthese theseprocedures, procedures,visit visitwww.gulfportmemorial.com www.gulfportmemorial.comoror call call(228) (228)575-1775 575-1775oror(228) (228)539-3356.

539-3356. www.gcwmultimedia.com

33

WEIGHT LOSS

LOOK GOOD,

feel better

Weight loss surgery is an option that individuals consider when many other methods of weight loss have failed. Losing weight could be the difference between living a productive life and battling chronic diseases caused by obesity. Laparoscopic gastric sleeve is a type of weight loss surgery that reduces the size of one’s stomach, leaving a “sleeve” the size of a banana. Small incisions are made in the abdomen which means less scaring and faster recovery. By reducing the size of the stomach, one eats less, and is hungry less often, which leads to rapid weight loss. Looking good is a great outcome, but gaining back one’s quality of life is even better! Hear patient testimonials at gulfportmemorial.com. Men and women tell of significant weight loss which changed their lives.

The advantages of bariatric surgery: (Results may vary.)

• Decreased Risk of Diabetes • Heart Disease • Joint Pain • Some Cancers • Improved Cholesterol Levels • Mobility • Blood Sugar Levels • Blood Pressure

To learn if you are a candidate for bariatric surgery, call (228) 867- 4220 or email weightloss@mhg.com.

34

January-February 2020

DIGESTIVE HEALTH CARE

WHAT IS YOUR

GUT

telling

YOU?

Listen to your body because you know it better than anyone. Don’t ignore severe heartburn, trouble swallowing or dismiss nausea or vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation or loose stool. These are conditions that affect your digestive tract and may lead to more severe illness such as irritable bowel syndrome, diverticular disease or even colorectal cancer, if they are not caught at an early stage or are left untreated. If you have any of these signs, it may be time to see a gastroenterologist. Ask your doctor.

For a directory of our Gastroenterologists and clinic locations, visit www.gulfportmemorial.com/gastroenterology or call (228) 867- 5000 to help you find a provider.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

35

HEART CARE

READY FOR THE

unexpected

In the event the unexpected happens, the Memorial Heart Team includes cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiovascular surgeons, critical and acute care experts, mid-level providers and nurses specially trained in the most advanced procedures, utilizing the latest technology in cardiac care.

Heart attack victims often state one of their symptoms felt as if “an elephant was sitting on my chest” to describe the pain or pressure they experience. But, the most common heart attack warnings signs also include pain in the shoulders, arms, neck, back, teeth and jaw. Additional symptoms most common in women are dizziness, nausea, vomiting, cold sweat, prolonged indigestion and shortness of breath. Know these signs and call 911 immediately if you think you may be experiencing a heart attack. Memorial’s ER is staffed and ready for cardiac emergencies 24/7. Understand the risks of heart disease or a heart attack to prevent one from happening and partner with your doctor to reduce those risks. Memorial’s Heart Team places a strong emphasis on patient education and reducing disease progression.

For a directory of our Cardiologists and clinic locations, visit www.gulfportmemorial.com/heart-services

36

January-February 2020

BONE & JOINT CARE

Joint VENTURE Orthopedics is a specialized branch of medicine that addresses disease and injury in the musculoskeletal system. Many people think only of broken bones when they think of orthopedics, but other problems present themselves in the muscles, tendons, joints and ligaments. Memorial orthopedic specialists can help—from conservative, nonsurgical medical care to surgery including advanced, minimally invasive procedures.

Joint replacement is on the rise because of the active lifestyles many of us enjoy.

Depending on the joint that is affected and the amount of damage, patients may have trouble with ordinary activities such as walking, getting in and out of cars or climbing stairs because of pain, stiffness, weakness or swelling of the joint. Joint replacement surgery is a highly effective way of eliminating joint pain, correcting a deformity, and helping improve the patient’s mobility (movement).

Our orthopedic surgeons remove damaged or diseased parts of a joint – ankle, hip or knee and replaces them with new, man-made parts and is done after other treatments (physical therapy and medications) have not helped.

For a directory of Orthopedic specialists, visit www.gulfportmemorial.com/orthopedic-surgery or call (228) 575-2636 or (228) 822-6040.

Memorial has national recognition for elective surgeries like total hip replacements. www.gcwmultimedia.com

37

GENERAL SURGERY

24 hours A DAY,

7 DAYS A WEEK

Whether your visit begins at one of our outpatient surgery centers or you are admitted as an inpatient, you’ll receive excellent care from our physicians and staff. We offer trauma care 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Some conditions requiring corrective surgery are thyroid, hernia, appendectomy, colorectal and gallbladder surgery.

Here is what you need to know about one of the most common:

GALLBLADDER PROBLEMS? • Sharp pain in the right upper portion of your abdomen that can radiate to the middle of your abdomen, right shoulder, or back • Fever • Nausea • Bloating • Jaundice, or yellowing of your skin, which typically indicates a bile duct blockage when due to biliary disease

In addition, we have specialists trained in breast care including cutting edge procedures for reconstructive surgery for breast cancer patients, one of the only doctors in the state offering this specialized treatment.

For a directory of our General Surgeons and clinic locations, visit www.gulfportmemorial.com/general-surgery.

38

January-February 2020

NEUROSURGERY

PRECISE SOLUTIONS. RECOVERY

faster

Many individuals live in constant pain caused by accidents, injuries, or wear and tear. Your spine affects your posture, alignment and movement. If trauma, degenerative disease, tumors, structural defects, infection or pain threaten your health and quality of life, you want the most upto-date care. Memorial now offers a state-of-the-art robotic spine surgery system as part of a minimally invasive spine surgery program, performed by the only board-certified neurosurgeons on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The system delivers highly detailed, real-time 3D images of your spine so your surgeon can develop a thorough plan. Using a computerized guidance system, your surgeon can place surgical instruments safely and with millimeter precision. Benefits include increased surgical accuracy, lower complication rates and reduced pain with faster recovery and return to daily activity.

If you have chronic neck or back pain, ask your doctor if it is time to see a Neurosurgeon.

Email us at roboticSpine@mhg.com to determine if you are a candidate or call (228) 867–4856.

Visit www.gulfportmemorial.com/neurosurgery-clinics for our directory.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

39

MEMORIAL FOUNDATION

MAKING A

difference

Founded in 1986, the mission of the Memorial Hospital Foundation is to assist Memorial Hospital in “Building a Healthier Community” through providing financial assistance to Memorial’s patients, purchasing life-saving equipment and providing safety education and materials to children in our community through the ThinkFirst Program.

What sets the Foundation apart from other 501(c)3 not-for-profit organizations is that 100% of all donations to the Foundation stay in our community and directly benefit the fund of the donor’s choosing. The Foundation is supported through employee donors including physicians, third party community fundraisers, community giving, internal fundraisers and grants. The Foundation has many funds including an Oncology Fund, Pediatric Fund, NICU Fund and Cardiac Services Fund, in addition to Memorial Foundation’s Favre4Hope Fund, founded by Brett and Deanna Favre, which provides financial assistance to breast cancer patients. A gift to the Foundation makes a difference in the lives of your neighbors, coworkers, families and anyone in our community that receives care from Memorial.

SNAPSHOT OF OUR COMMUNITY IMPACT! • Assisted more than 70 breast cancer patients with co-pay and medication in 2019.

• Provided more than 120 breast imaging services and mammograms through the Breast Imaging Fund to uninsured or under-insured women.

• Provided medication, transportation and nutritional assistance to more than 1,000 Memorial cancer patients through the Oncology Patient Fund.

• Purchased life-saving equipment, such as bike helmets, and provides safety education and materials to children in our community through the ThinkFirst Program.

The Foundation welcomes anyone in the community to meet with the staff about fundraising and giving opportunities. If you would like more information, call (228) 865-3419 or go to www.memorialhospitalfoundation.com. Follow us and 40

January-February 2020

CELEBRATING ONE YEAR OF QUALITY FUN!!

I

AT EDGEWATER MALL

Premiere Cinemas is now screening the best of Hollywood in its state of the art digital complex at

Edgewater Mall. The eight auditoriums feature wall-to-wall digital screens! So sit back, relax, and enjoy your favorite refreshments with your favorite movie in the Premiere Cinemas at Edgewater Mall.

I

ONLINE TICKET ORDERING I www.pccmovies.com PIZZA PUB Delicious pizzas and appetizers FULL-SERVICE BAR Your favorite refreshments LUXURY RECLINERS Lap of luxury MAXIMUM COMFORT Adjustable head & footrests FAMILY FRIENDLY Movie magic for all ages

I

I

I

I

www.gcwmultimedia.com

41

Health

Recalibrate 10

Steps to better health

1. Cutting sugar p. 44 2. Relive stress p. 46 3. Pursue positive energy p. 46 4. Sleep matters p. 50 5. Portion control p. 52 6. Downtime p. 56 7. Stay hydrated p. 58 8. Physical activity p. 60 9. Meal times p. 62 10. Time for family p. 64

42

January-February 2020

A new year should bring fresh thinking about your health — and getting healthier is so much more than signing up for a gym membership.

Take control of your life in 2020 with a new attitude and approaches.

Cover subject Leah Tennyson Rodgers Photography by Brandi Stage Portraiture Makeup by Haleigh Bullock

www.gcwmultimedia.com

43

10 healthier choices for 2020

Cutting

SUGAR

1

can have big benefits

BY DR. PAMELA TULI

E

xcess sugar in our diet has been linked to many chronic diseases like obesity, heart disease, diabetes and cancer. That said, cutting back is one of the best things you can do for your health.

Daily recommendations of added sugar range from 25 to 45 grams for women and 36 to 50 grams for men. Yet, the average American consumes 82 grams (about 20 teaspoons) of added sugar per day.

Not all sugar is equal. Sugar occurs naturally in foods like fruits, vegetables, dairy and even whole grains. This type of sugar has little effect on your body’s blood sugar and is considered healthy. Fruits and vegetables have other components like fiber that allow our bodies to process that sugar differently. It is the added sugars that are harmful.

If you are ready to reduce your intake, here’s some strategies to follow: Cut back on sugary drinks (soda, sweetened tea) and sweets. A can of soda, for instance, has about 29 grams of sugar.

Eating whole foods is one of the best ways to cut back, but if you eat processed foods, read the labels. You will find added sugar in surprising places, such as whole grain bread, ketchup and pasta sauce. It can be confusing because “sugar” may be listed as other things like fructose. The good news is in

44

2020, the FDA will require food nutrition labels have a separate line to tell consumers how much sugar is added sugar.

3. Gradually decrease the amount of sugar you add to your coffee, tea or food, eventually omitting it completely. It will take time to retrain your palate.

4. Avoid low and nonfat foods, as they usually contain more sugar and sometimes even more calories than their full-fat counterpart.

5. Get more sleep. Research has shown that sleep deprivation increases our craving for highcalorie, sweet and salty food.

6. Try replacing sugar with spice. The palate often misses sugar because it has no other flavors to replace it. For instance, try adding sweet-tasting herbs and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla to coffee, yogurt or oatmeal.

Dr. Pamela Tuli is a hematologist-oncologist practicing on the Mississippi Gulf Coast since 2007 and is currently with Memorial Hospital at Gulfport. Her medical school and residency training was at Temple University in Philadelphia, and she completed her hematology and oncology fellowship while serving in the U.S. Air Force. She can be contacted at (228)-575-1234.

January-February 2020

3 TAKEAWAY TIPS Tip 1 Cut back or eliminate sugary drinks completely.

They account for nearly 50 percent of the added sugars in the American diet.

Tip 2 Eat more whole, unprocessed foods to be fully in control of your sugar intake.

Tip 3 Cut back gradually to retrain your palate.

Weight-Loss Surgery MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.

“When I weighed as much as 272 pounds, people just thought I was lazy. But, I’ve tried many diets with only short-term success.

I chose weight-loss surgery because it was my chance for long-term, lasting results. I’ve lost 80 pounds in 9 months.”

– Rea, Weight-Loss Surgery Patient

Go to GardenParkMedical.com/WeightLoss to learn more about Rea’s weight-loss surgery.

www.gcwmultimedia.com 199600_MID_GPMC_BAR: 10/19: DC

45

Relieve

2

STRESS

with the relaxation response

I love the month of January because we can look forward to 12 months of exploring new things! One of those things is a technique

BY JACKIE CASTRO-COOPER I teach my clients to decrease stress called “the relaxation response.”

Although meditation has been around for thousands of years, Harvard cardiologist Dr. Herbert Benson pioneered the relaxation response, which is a form of meditation, in the United States in the 1970s. This technique is accepted by physicians and therapists worldwide as a way of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to aids — and I love it!

According to Dr. Benson, “The relaxation response is a physical state of deep rest that changes the physical and emotional responses to stress (e.g., decreases in heart rate, blood pressure, rate of breathing and muscle tension).” He adds that “deep breathing increases the supply of oxygen to your brain and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes a state of calmness.

Breathing techniques help you feel connected to your body. It brings your

awareness away from the worries in your head and quiets your mind.”

Benson is the founder of the Mind Body Medicine Institute.

One of my favorite authors, Dr. Dawson Church, mentions Dr. Benson in his book, “The Genie in your Genes”: “Studies showed that the relaxation response was able to help with many different ailments, from high blood pressure and infertility to rheumatoid arthritis and pain. ‘How could a single, simple, stress reduction technique affect so many different conditions?’ researchers wondered.

The answer had to wait until the invention of DNA microarrays at the end of the 20th century, which made possible the study of the relaxation response as an epigenetic intervention.”

So now you know a little secret to healing yourself. Enjoy this wondrous new year with your relaxation response!

Castro-Cooper holds a master’s in physical therapy and specializes in John F. Barnes’s myofascial release.

Her practice, Gulf Coast Myofascial Release, has been located in Ocean Springs for 10 years. Contact her at (228) 424-2940 or gcmfr1@gmail.com.

HOW TO DO THE RELAXATION RESPONSE • For 20 minutes, sit down in a • As you breathe slowly and quiet room and begin breathing repeat the word/prayer/phrase, slowly by inhaling and exhaling start to focus on relaxing a through your nose. Dr. Benson different part of the body with recommends on the exhale each breath: Feet, ankles, calves, to repeat a phrase such as a knees, thighs, hips (I add pelvic word, prayer or phrase: i.e. calm, floor and buttocks), belly, back, peace, gentle or even just the chest, shoulders, arms and word “one.” If thoughts come hands, throat and neck, face up, don’t worry. Just say, “oh, and head. well,” and return to breathing and repeating the word, prayer or phrase.

46

January-February 2020

The pursuit of

BY DR. YEKATERINA KARPITSKAYA

POSITIVE ENERGY 3

Y

ou experience and create all kinds of energies that affect how you feel, how you interact with others and what you accomplish in the day. If you work on creating more positive energy, you’ll see improvements in your personal, professional and spiritual life. It will decrease your level of stress and take your body out of a constant state of fear and fight-or-flight response.

Decreasing the level of sympathetic activity and the levels or cortisol in your body has several direct positive health effects via the brain-body connection, including lower blood pressure and increased ability to heal. Not only will it decrease your level of stress, but it also will increase your productivity and have a positive impact on those around you, creating a feedback loop where they will infect you with their sunny attitude.

Positive energy is contagious. When you constantly take in positive energy from your surroundings, it will be visible to the outside world.

“Decluttering and organizing your work and living space ... leads to increased positive energy. ” So how do you get this elusive positive energy? Some everyday tactics include yoga, meditation, creative writing, keeping CONTINUED ON PAGE 56

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE IN

NOW OPEN ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

Paige C. White, MD Urologist Find confidence

in the right partner Let Dr. Paige White at the Urology Clinic provide your urology healthcare with special interests:

Bladder Control | Urinary Frequency Kidney Stones | Prostate Disorders Women’s Pelvic Health

for your health.

14231 Seaway Road Suite 6000 GULFPORT

228-254-1103

www.gcwmultimedia.com

47

Let

COASTAL FAMILY HEALTH

keep you healthy in

2020

coastalfamilyhealth .org | 1-877-374-4991 48

January-February 2020

WENDY WILLIAMS, MD

VICKI ROY, MD

JADA HILL, DNP WHNP-BC

BILOXI PEDIATRICS

GULFPORT

BILOXI

Coastal Family Health strives to provide quality comprehensive patient centered care to the community regardless of one’s economic status.

OFFERING: Family Practice | Pediatrics | Women’s Health and Prenatal Preventative Dental Care | Optometry Behavioral Health Services Pharmacy | Lab Radiology and Mammography

EIGHT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU! www.gcwmultimedia.com 49 Bay St. Louis | Pass Christian | Gulfport | Biloxi | Saucier | D’Iberville | Vancleave | Moss Point

Why

SLEEP matters 4

RECOMMENDED AMOUNT OF SLEEP PER DAY Infants 4-12 months: 12-16 hours (including naps) Children 1-2 years: 11-14 hours (including naps) 3-5 years: 10-13 hours (including naps) 6-12 years: 9-12 hours Teen 13-18 years: 8-10 hours Adults 18 and older: 7–8 hours a day Source: American Academy of Sleep Medicine

50

W

aking up to dawn’s sunlight filtering through our curtains, we stretch and let our dreams dissipate like the morning dew.

With seven to eight hours of sleep, our bodies and minds refreshed, we’re ready to face the stresses of the day.

Sleep isn’t just refreshing; it’s necessary to function. During sleep, our minds consolidate the memories we’ve created in the prior day, muscles grow, tissues repair and we synthesize hormones. Adequate sleep improves learning and problemsolving skills. It helps people make decisions, concentrate and be creative.

Sleep occurs in mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, some fish and, in some form, insects and simpler animals like nematodes. Sleep needs vary based on species. The armadillo sleeps 20 hours a day, while horses get by with only two.

As for humans, infants sleep 12 to 16 hours a day, including napping. Adults need seven to eight hours, and while napping provides a short-term boost in alertness, it won’t provide the other benefits of nighttime sleep.

Those who don’t get enough sleep suffer from sleep deficiency. Ongoing sleep

January-February 2020

deficiency is linked to heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and stroke.

Sleep deficiency creates mood disorder, such as short temper and anxiety. It can interfere with our ability to learn, focus and react, as well as judge other people’s emotions. In the elderly, sleep deficiency has been linked to an increased risk of falls. Children who are sleep deficient might be hyperactive, inattentive and demonstrate behavior disorders.

Most people have experienced the feeling of being hungry when they’re sleep deprived.

The hormones that create hunger (ghrelin) and fullness (leptin) depend on sleep. Sleep also affects how your body reacts to insulin, the hormone that controls your blood glucose level.

Deep sleep is required for the body to release growth hormone, the hormone that promotes normal growth in children and teens. This hormone also boosts muscle mass and helps repair cells and tissues in children, teens, and adults.

In today’s society, many people have roles that predispose them to sleep deficiency. Caregivers may find their sleep hours eaten up by their duties, as do those working long hours or multiple jobs. Shift workers, first responders, teenagers with early school hours or those taking certain stimulant medications tend to get less sleep. People also can interfere with their sleep needs by drinking caffeine, ingesting alcohol or drugs or just not allowing themselves enough time to rest.

To avoid sleep deficiency, you must set personal rules.

It’s best to have a set bedtime, even on weekends and holidays

BY DR. PHILIP L. LEVIN

— particularly for children.

Use the hour before bed for quiet time by avoiding strenuous exercise and bright artificial light, such as from a TV or a computer screen.

Avoid heavy meals within a couple of hours of bedtime.

Avoid alcoholic drinks, nicotine and caffeine before bed. Sleeping pills tend to be counterproductive, as they suppress REM sleep and can create addiction and withdrawal issues.

Oversleeping also creates medical issues. According to John Hopkins medicine, oversleeping is associated with diabetes, heart disease, obesity, depression and headaches. However, sometimes extra sleep is necessary, such as when recovering from illness or injury.

Several techniques can improve sleep. Spend time outside every day, and try to get a bit of daily exercise.

Keep your bedroom quiet, cool and dark. Take a hot bath or use relaxation techniques before bed. Some people benefit from a bedtime drink, such as hot chocolate or non-caffeinated tea.

Humans spend a third of their lives asleep. Instead of considering it wasted time, recognizing how important it is for our health will help you prioritize sleep over making too many commitments in your life. In closing, let me wish you a good night and pleasant dreams.

Levin is based in Gulfport and has been practicing for 40 years. He graduated from the University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio in 1978 and specializes in emergency medicine. He can be contacted at (228) 867-4000.

New You

NEW YEAR - NEW SMILE

10437 LAMEY BRIDGE RD., SUITE E | D’IBERVILLE

228-388-3353 WWW.BROADWATERFAMILYDENTAL.COM

www.gcwmultimedia.com

51

Mastering

PORTION CONTROL

5

BY KAROL BRANDT

5

TIPS FOR PORTION CONTROL

1. Downsize your dinnerware — Swap out your usual plate, bowl or serving spoon for a smaller alternative, which can reduce your intake and prevent overeating.

2. Pack meal prep containers — When preparing your meals for work, use meal prep containers to limit your food portions, measuring your food to ensure you have the amount you really need for each meal. By prepping and packing this way, you’re visually seeing what portions you should be eating.

3. Think produce first — Before you put anything on your plate, fill half of it with vegetables and fruit, then your protein, then your carbohydrates (should be the smallest serving). Take up real estate in your stomach with produce, and you will feel fuller sooner. Also, take it slow. Slowing down can reduce your food intake.

M

ore people than ever are struggling to control their weight, and excessive portion sizes directly contribute to overeating and weight gain. Why? Because we tend to eat almost all of what we serve ourselves. Therefore, controlling portion sizes can help prevent overindulging.

It is very common to finish what’s in front of us out of habit; many of us grew up in a house with the “clean plate” club. Then there’s the challenge

that our bowls, plates and utensils are being made, yes, much bigger.

They serve as a subconscious marker of what we “should” be eating, and there’s a visual effect. We feel like standard portion sizes look “skimpy” and reeling in our portions means we will still be hungry.

That’s not true at all. With the right strategies, you can master proper portion sizing and kick overeating in 2020, which will help you reach and maintain your healthy weight goals.

Brandt is an executive host with Scarlett Pearl Casino Resort as well as co-author of the Amazon best-seller “The Struggle is Real: Finally Break the Dieting Cycle, Transform Your Mind and Body, and Evolve into The Person You Have Always Wanted to Be” and the “30-Day Evolve Challenge Journal.” Contact Brandt by email at karol.brandt@scarletpearlcasino.com, Facebook/ The Struggle Is Real or Instagram at karolbrandtnola.

52

January-February 2020

4. Buy single-serving foods — From snack packs to individual pouches of oatmeal and almonds, pre-portioned foods give you a healthier cue of how much you “should” eat and offer an easy way to cut down on portion sizes without feeling deprived.

5. Eating out — If you are eating out, you always can ask for a half portion, or even a children’s dish (this will save you calories and help prevent overeating). You also could share a meal or order a starter and side instead of a main dish. Another option is ordering a side salad or vegetables, asking for sauces and dressing to be served separately.

By all means, avoid buffet-style or all-you-can-eat restaurants, where it’s easy to overeat. My favorite tip: Immediately ask for a to-go container, and take half of it of off your plate. Restaurant portions tend to be at least twice the size of regular portions.

WOMAN’S CLINIC, P.A. Prepare for Summer

20% OFF LASER HAIR REMOVAL AND FACIALS

Sun Herald People’s Choice THE BEST OB/GYN CLINIC 1ST PLACE winner 2019.

- By: Dr. Zein Obagi

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

Now Accepting DEBORAH MEZA, Laser, Skin Care and Massage Department 228-341-7879 OB/GYN CLINIC, 4577 13th Street, GULFPORT: 228-864-2752 OB/GYN CLINIC, 2781 C.T. Switzer Drive, Suite # 302, BILOXI: 228-388-4816 THOMAS W. LEHMAN, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. • SHAHIRA HANNA, M.D.,F.A.C.O.G. JOHN F. PAPPAS, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. • JOANNA M. TRUS, M.D. F.A.C.O.G. • ALISHA H. WARE, M.D. F.A.C.O.G.

W W W . W OM A N S CL IN ICP Awww.gcwmultimedia.com .N E T

53

THE ISLANDS CENTER FOR WOMEN OBSTETRIC SERVICES: ROUTINE PREGNANCY CARE HIGH-RISK PREGNANCY CARE 3D/4D ULTRASOUNDS COMPLIMENTARY GENDER CHECKS INFERTILITY EVALUATION & TREATMENT PRE-CONCEPTUAL COUNSELING *NATURAL CHILDBIRTH & BIRTH PLANS WELCOME*

More than just memorable deliveries...

FOR OVER 20 YEARS WE HAVE HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF WELCOMING SO MANY BEAUTIFUL BUNDLES INTO THE WORLD. WE BELIEVE EVERY BIRTH IS UNIQUE AND SPECIAL! WHETHER YOU NEED PRE-CONCEPTUAL COUNSELING, INFERTILITY TREATMENT, ROUTINE PREGNANCY CARE, OR HIGH RISK CARE...

We look forward to helping you grow your family!

SHELI MILAM, MD FACOG BRADLEY C. SAMS, MD FACOG, FAAMFM, ABAARM 1001 NORTH HALSTEAD ROAD, OCEAN SPRINGS, MS 39564

54

January-February 2020

228-818-0416 WWW.ISLANDSCENTER.NET

MED SPA AT THE

ISL ANDS

Bring forth the ageless beauty that lies just beneath...

COSMETIC PROCEDURES

BOTOX, DERMAL FILLERS, KYBELLA, IPL TREATMENT, NOVA THREADS, THERMI VA VAGINAL REJUVENATION, THERMI SMOOTH BODY, LASER HAIR REMOVAL, VI PEELS, RESURFX, SKIN PEN MICRONEEDLING, & MANY MORE...

228-818-0416 1001 North Halstead Road Ocean Springs, MS 39564

MED SPA PRODUCTS

OBAGI, SKIIN CEUTICALS, SKIN MEDICA, VI AESTHETICS, LATISSE, JANE IREDALE MENERAL MAKE UP, DERMA BLAND, FAKE BAKE TANNING, LOVING TAN & MORE...

Sheli Milam MD, Medical Director www.islandscenter.net facebook.com/islandsmedspaos www.gcwmultimedia.com 55

PEACE, REST AND RELAXATION

What's in your

6

DOWNTIME plan?

E

verywhere you look, it seems there’s something new to read about the benefits of rest. Forbes Magazine discussed its productivity value. American Medicine Today

BY LEAH RODGERS addressed its necessity for health, and Psychology Today talked about rest in terms of brain well-being. There’s also spiritual text of all kinds about how important rest is for the soul.

What most people don’t realize is that rest and rejuvenation are about more than catching up on sleep. You are a physical, mental, emotional, relational and spiritual being; All these areas require recharging, too!

We all need a balance between physical rest (sleep) for our bodies, reflective rest (solitude) for our hearts and minds, relational connection with loved ones (reconnection) and active rest (play), which is replenishing and energizing.

Curious about the different types of rest and how to factor them into your daily life? Here are some examples: Brain fog?

Eat a healthy snack and meditate. Lonely and unsupported?

Call a friend or close family member. Emotionally overloaded?

Journal to reflect or book a session with a therapist.

Spiritually unwell? Listen to an inspiring podcast or music, connect to a faith-based group or practice regular prayer.

Does your brain need a break but your body feels restless? Go play! Take a fun fitness class, ride your bike or dance.

Think of your energy like a bank account. The more you put in, the more you will have to take out. The better you manage your money, the better your money can help take care of you.

Likewise, the better you manage your emotional, mental, physical, spiritual and relational well-being, the more reserve you will have when needed. And, like money, you will need an energy “savings account” to sustain you during times of hardship.

By cultivating a balanced mindset of work, rest, reflect, reconnect and play, we develop ourselves as well-rounded beings. A person isn’t just what she does for a living, looks like, owns or has achieved; we all bring depth and meaning by being fully present. When we take time to pause and reflect, our contentment and gratitude grows, helping us to nourish our souls.

So how do we live a well-balanced life? I like how Martha Beck states it: “Rest until you feel like playing, then play until you feel like resting, period ....” I would say rest, replenish, work, play, repeat.

Rodgers is owner/instructor at Selah Yoga and Arts Collaborative LLC at 526 E. Second St., Pass Christian. She can be reached at leahtrodgers@gmail.com.

56

January-February 2020

POSITIVE ENERGY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46

a dream journal, reading and focusing on gratitude.

Exercise and being outside in nature also helps clear negative thoughts and attitudes. Decluttering and organizing your work and living space also leads to increased positive energy.

Flood your life with light and order. Get rid of minutia and old, unnecessary possessions that hinder you and make you a prisoner of the past. This includes people.

Do not let others’ negative energy and internal conflicts hook you into their story and make you feel sad, angry, guilty or afraid. Your life is your story, and only you determine how you tell it.

Dr. Karpitskaya joined Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists in 2011. She specializes in general orthopaedics and sports medicine. She is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, double board certified in sports medicine and general orthopaedics and a former member of the United States Air Force. Learn more about her at https://www.bienvilleortho.com.

EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS REALTOR RAVES ABOUT ENCOMPASS REHABILITATION HOSPITAL From his first day at Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital, RAY GONZALES JR. realized things were about to get better. Before his hip replacement surgery in October, he recalls, “my ability to move or walk was greatly limited, and I was in constant pain.” A professional Realtor since 1978, Gonzales loves his work — which can be challenging for someone who struggles to get around.

“It gives me great satisfaction to help people find the right home to build their family and futures from,” says the husband, father and grandfather, “so my physical mobility is greatly important.”

After the procedure at Memorial Hospital in Gulfport, he was transferred directly to the adjoining Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital and stayed there for 14 days.

“The attitude of caring and helpfulness displayed by all members of the staff was beyond expectation,” Gonzales says. “Everyone made me feel like they really cared and it wasn’t just ‘a job.’”

Because of his positive experience, Gonzales says he would highly recommend the Encompass facility to anyone needing effective rehabilitation. The way the rehab staff taught him to strengthen and handle his new hip, he adds, “greatly accelerated my recovery process.”

“I had my other hip replaced 13 years ago,” Gonzales says, “and can say that experience, when compared with my recent surgery, was truly like night and day.”

Established in April of 2017, Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital is located in Memorial Hospital’s east tower on the second floor. Patients like Gonzales undergo intensive therapy during their stay, and a rehabilitation team then works with them to set attainable goals and design a treatment plan.

“I shopped around and decided to use the Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital and am glad I did,” Gonzales says. “I am thrilled to be on the road to total rehabilitation.”

Prospective patients can contact the facility directly at (228) 822-6965), be referred through an in-home evaluation service or by family, friends, employers or other healthcare professionals. To learn more, visit https://encompasshealth.com/gulfportrehab

4500 13th Street Suite 900 | Gulfport, MS 39501 228.822.6965 | encompasshealth.com/gulfportrehab www.gcwmultimedia.com

57

Stay

7

BY DR. PHILIP L. LEVIN

HYDRATED

for better health

CDC RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DAILY FLUID INTAKE BY AGE

Up to 12 months 3 cups 1 to 3 years 4 cups 4 to 8 years 5 cups 9 to 13 years 8 cups 14 years and over 11 to 13 cups for men, and 8 to 9 cups for women

L

ife evolved in the sea.

Now that humans live on land, we must carry our water within us. Sixty percent of the human body is water, from the brain at 75 percent to bones at 30 percent. Although we can live without food for 30 days, humans will die within two to four days without water.

Our bodies require water to function. It lubricates joints, cushions the brain and makes tears, sweat and saliva.

Blood, which is 90 percent water, delivers oxygen and takes away waste. Our skin requires water to regulate our body temperature. Our digestive system and bowels require water for transitioning food and waste removal. Longterm dehydration creates permanent brain dysfunction.

No matter what aspect of human functioning one

considers, water is essential.

Although we excrete some water by sweating and breathing, our kidneys are the main regulators of our hydration. One-third of the blood from each heartbeat goes through the kidneys, where toxins are filtered out and eliminated in urine. Too little fluid intake can lead to problems like kidney stones and, in severe cases, kidney failure.

Although a common belief, the darkness of urine is not a reliable way to judge dehydration.

There is no universally agreed upon quantity of water that must be consumed daily. A frequently heard adage is eight glasses of water a day, although there is no scientific basis for that number. Clearly, every individual has different needs when accounting for factors such as ambient temperature, body mass, fever, activity and breast feeding.

About two-thirds of a person’s hydration needs are met by taking in fluids. Although water should be first choice, milk,

58

January-February 2020

tea, coffee or juices are fine, too. While it was once thought that caffeinated drinks might be counterproductive because of their mild diuretic effects, studies have shown those factors are minimal.

A quarter of our fluid intake comes from the foods we eat, with a higher percentage for those who eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Almost all foods contribute to our fluid intake.

Fruits are about 80 percent water, and breads are about 30 percent.

The last 10 percent of our daily water needs comes from our body’s metabolic processes. Every cell in our body creates water during normal functioning. This production increases with physical activity and digestion.

Consuming water offers many other benefits. Increasing water intake helps with weight loss by making a person feel full. Drinking water reduces the effects of overconsumption of alcohol, particularly if water is consumed between each alcohol drink. Drinking water in the morning after using alcohol will help with toxin removal, too. Increasing water intake decreases the incidence of urinary infections and helps treat them.

Excess water loss can cause issues with the loss of needed ions, particularly from diarrhea, so supplementation with electrolyte-added drinks may help. However, drinks labeled as “mineral water” rarely contain significant amounts of the minerals we need, particularly compared to what is obtained from food.

The elderly have an especially high risk for dehydration.

Older adults lose their sense of thirst, so they may not recognize when they haven’t had enough water. Due to impaired mobility, many older people find it more difficult to get water for themselves. Studies show that those over 70 who are well hydrated have fewer falls, less constipation and a lower incidence of bladder cancer.

Our lives require water. It’s found in every organ of our body and is used in our metabolic functions. Every individual has different needs, especially during stressful times such as illness, pregnancy or heavy activity. The next time someone offers you a drink say, “Thanks, I’ll have a glass of water.”

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

HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS? DIAL 911 Heart Disease is the Number 1 Killer of Women in the US Women frequently discount the signs of a heart attack to the flu, indigestion or just being tired. It is important for women to know their list of heart attack symptoms*:

n Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest.

It lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back.

n Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach. n Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort. n Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness. n As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/ vomiting and back or jaw pain.

If you have any of these signs, call 911 and get to a hospital right away.

SERVING THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST FOR 45 YEARS

AMR Gulf Coast 12020 Intraplex Parkway Gulfport, MS 39503 *Source: American Heart Association

www.gcwmultimedia.com

59

amr.net/miss

8

LIVING YOUR BEST LIFE

One

W

STEPat a time

ant to feel better, have more energy, and live longer? A healthy lifestyle, including routine physical activity, is one of the best things you can do for yourself.

The direct physical, mental and spiritual benefits of physical activity are interrelated and undeniable when it comes to living your best life.

Exercise is a form of meditation. It allows you to collect your thoughts and reach out to the divine. It gives you a burst of endorphins and elevates your heart rate. It gives you a sense of satisfaction. It allows you to connect with nature and marvel at the miracle of creation. Plus, it is difficult to have negative or self-defeating thoughts when you are in the middle of a brisk walk across the Ocean Springs bridge at sunset or running on a trail

surrounded by trees filled with bright autumn colors.

Moderate and frequent exercise has multiple health benefits — weight loss, decreased blood pressure and lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels.

Weight-bearing exercise also promotes bone health and slows down the inevitable progression of osteopenia and osteoporosis. Physical activity makes you feel happy and productive.

You do not need much equipment to go for a run or a walk — all you need is a pair of comfortable running shoes and a cozy workout outfit (here is an excuse to go shopping).

So get out there, take a walk or go for a run! Thirty minutes, three times a week — less than 1 percent of your time — will help you live a more balanced, longer and happier life. When

you’re trying to decide whether to go for a walk or not, keep these benefits in mind.

Make 2020 your

BY DR. YEKATERINA best year yet!

KARPITSKAYA Dr. Karpitskaya joined Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists in 2011. She specializes in general orthopaedics and sports medicine.

She is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, double board certified in sports medicine and general orthopaedics and a former member of the United States Air Force.

Learn more about her at https://www. bienvilleortho.com.

WE WE KNOW KNOW Foot Foot & & Ankle Ankle INTRODUCING BIENVILLE’S FOOT & ANKLE CENTER INTRODUCING BIENVILLE’S FOOT & ANKLE CENTER

Jess H. Mullens, md Jess H. Mullens, md FOOT & ANKLE SPECIALIST FOOT & ANKLE SPECIALIST • Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle • • • • •

Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Arthritis • Forefoot Disorders Arthritis • Forefoot •Disorders Ankle Arthroscopy Sports Medicine Ankle Arthroscopy • Sports Ligament and Sports TendonMedicine Repair Sports Ligament and Tendon Repair Ankle Reconstruction and Replacement Ankle Reconstruction and Replacement

To schedule your appointment, call 228-230-BONE (2663) To visit schedule your appointment, call to 228-230-BONE or BienvilleOrtho.com learn about all our (2663) services. or visit BienvilleOrtho.com to learn about all our services.

60

January-February 2020

WOMAN’S CLINIC, P.A. GYNECOLOGY & OBSTETRICS FOR WOMEN ON THE COAST

> ½ÃÊ VÊ*

>Ê6 V Ê, L Ì VÊ-ÕÀ}iÀÞ `Û> Vi`Ê6>} > Ê-ÕÀ}iÀÞÊ Ê ÞÃÌiÀ ÃV «Þ À > Ê> `Ê } Ê, à Ê"LÃÌiÌÀ Và >«>À ÃV « VÊ Ãà ÃÌi`Ê ÞÃÌiÀiVÌ Þ ` iÌÀ > Ê L >Ì ÊÊ ONE-TIME 4-D Ultrasound MEMBERSHIP FEE iÊ i à ÌÞÊ/iÃÌ } ONLY

150

$

Board Certified i ÜÃÊ vÊÌ iÊ iÀ V> Ê i}iÊ v Complimentary Consultation Available at BOTH Locations: "LÃÌiÌÀ V > ÃÊ> `Ê Þ iV } ÃÌÃ Gulfport & Biloxi

Sun Herald People’s Choice THE BEST OB/GYN CLINIC 1ST PLACE winner 2019.

-Ê ",Ê7" Ê" Ê/ Ê " -/ Caring Professionals Dedicated To You To You

BOARD CERTIFIED >Ê °Ê/ÀÕÃ]Ê ° °ÊUÊ i Ì Ê °Ê `vi Ü]Ê ° °ÊUÊÊ- > À>Ê > >]Ê ° °ÊUÊ Ã >Ê °Ê7>Ài]Ê Fellows of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

52

Ì

Thomas W. Lehman, M.D. • John F. Pappas, M.D. Joanna M. Trus, M.D. • Shahira Hanna, M.D. • Alisha H. Ware, M.D.

228-388-4816

Now Accepting

DEBORAH MEZA, Laser, Skin Care and Massage Department 228-341-7879 OB/GYN CLINIC, 4577 13th Street, GULFPORT: 228-864-2752 OB/GYN CLINIC, 2781 C.T. Switzer Drive, Suite # 302, BILOXI: 228-388-4816 THOMAS W. LEHMAN, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. • SHAHIRA HANNA, M.D.,F.A.C.O.G. JOHN F. PAPPAS, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. • JOANNA M. TRUS, M.D. F.A.C.O.G. • ALISHA H. WARE, M.D. F.A.C.O.G.

ÓÇn£Ê °/°Ê-Ü ÌâiÀÊ-À°Ê À°]Ê-ÌiÊÎäÓÊUÊ Ý WWW.WOMANSCLINICPA.NET www.gcwmultimedia.com

61

9

WANT A HAPPY TUMMY?

TIMING

BY ALYSSA ASHMORE

is everything HAPPY TUMMY TIPS • Avoid eating a large amount of food and/or something high in fat at least two hours before bedtime to keep your stomach settled while you sleep.

• Get your body primed for the day by eating soon after you wake up, even if it’s something small.

• Aim to eat smaller meals every two to four hours for optimal digestion and highest metabolism.

H

ave you heard rules about when you should eat?

Maybe you’ve been told you shouldn’t eat after 5 p.m., or not to eat right when you wake up. While the best times to eat are when you feel physically hungry, there is some merit to the rules you may have heard, particularly for digestion.

If you suffer from acid reflux, heartburn or other digestive issues, eating late at night can be a big problem. When you lie flat on your back, your digestion slows down and food is more likely to backup into your esophagus, causing reflux. This horizontal position also can keep you feeling full and uncomfortable, leading to restless sleep or feeling lousy in the morning.

If the food you eat right before bed is greasy or high in fat, your

62

January-February 2020

problems will be even worse, as fat takes the longest to digest. Don’t follow a rule saying you can’t eat past a specific time, but consider cutting back on what you eat at least two hours before you go to bed, especially if it’s a large meal.

Eating soon after you get out of bed is a great way to start waking up your body, including your digestive system and metabolism.

Don’t feel hungry in the morning?

Reduce how much you’re eating at night so you’re not still processing it when you wake up. To make it easier to think about eating early, try a smaller morning snack if a large meal is too much. A piece of fruit, boiled egg, cup of yogurt or glass of milk are healthy and convenient ideas.

During the day, the best times to

eat for digestion are about every two to four hours. This is how long it takes for the average meal or snack to wear off, so refueling your body will keep everything working more fluidly. If you eat large meals, you won’t feel hungry enough to eat this often. Eat smaller meals to promote easier digestion, to help you manage your appetite so you don’t overeat and to increase your metabolism.

Ashmore of Passionate Portions Nutrition & Wellness is a registered dietitian nutritionist, author, speaker and nutrition therapist. She can be reached at alyssa@alyssaashmore. com. Visit www.alyssaashmore.com to learn more.

PROTECT YOU AND YOUR FAMILY FROM THE FLU, GET YOUR

FLU SHOT TODAY Changing the way health care is delivered on the Coast • X-rays • Labs • IV Fluids/Medications • Fracture Care • Laceration Repair • Urinary/Feeding Catheter Problems • Respiratory Treatments • School/Sports Physicals • Occupational Health • Workman’s Comp • Flu Shots • Travel Prophylaxis

THE ONLY 5 STAR URGENT CARE ON THE COAST

Walk in or save your spot by scheduling online at

AlphaCareUrgentCare.com 921 Cedar Lake Road, Suite E., Biloxi, MS 39532 | 228-396-3945

NEW LOCATION! 1113 Bienville Blvd, Oceans Springs, MS 39564 | 228-300-5945

Open 7 days a week, 8amwww.gcwmultimedia.com - 8pm

63

10

BY SHELIA RIVERS

Make time for FAMILY

T

he word family is powerful and holds significant value.

The most common view of family is biological relatives, although some refer to close friends as family. Family can be your church, your friends, your co-workers, your sorority or fraternity mates or your neighbor. So whether your view of family is the one you were born into, adopted into, loved into or have chosen, the concept is meaningful. Family can evoke feelings of belonging, connectedness, love, respect and support.

Take a moment and think about your own family traditions and culture. Healthy family traditions strengthen bonds and create a sense of connectedness.

What is at least one thing that someone in your family passed on to you that you continue to cherish? Is it a recipe, a particular day you celebrate, a precedent about who carves the turkey on Thanksgiving or a wedding celebration custom? Although our family traditions may differ, we all share them in some way.

Healthy family traditions create moments of priceless quality time.

However, you don’t always need a family tradition to make lasting, meaningful memories. Every moment you share with someone you call family can be defined as quality time. Author Gary Chapman named quality time one of the five “love languages.” This is a way to show someone that you love them, care about them and are connected to them.

Quality time in families can be scheduled or impromptu. It doesn’t matter how you implement quality time in your family; it’s just essential that it happens.

Spending family quality time together promotes strong family bonds. When

64

January-February 2020

was the last time you had scheduled or impromptu quality time with your family?

Healthy family traditions also inspire family goals. When families come together to work toward a common goal, they are more likely to succeed. Everyone in the family unit is an individual and should be treated independently. Nevertheless, individual personal goals can be supported within family goals.

This is not to be confused with codependency, nor family enmeshment.

Encouraging family goals promotes family strengths alongside individual strengths, builds trust and elevates individual self-esteem toward a sense of accomplishment. Setting family goals will identify family stressors, too, and by identifying them often provide a solution.

For example, let’s say your family usually has evening activities, and by the time you all arrive home, there’s just enough time for homework, dinner

and a bath before bed. The family has spent little to no organized quality time together. The solution may lie in a family goal, like watching at least one movie together on Sunday evening. This may not look like your family at all, but we all have stressors. Identify those affecting your family and develop a solution through your family goals.

As a therapist, I know there’s no two families with the exact same dynamics.

Families come in all shapes and sizes.

All families have a good side, bad side and ugly side. No matter what shape or size, remember your family is valuable.

Reflect on the dynamics of your family, implement traditions and culture, create priceless moments together and set goals that promote individuality and family growth.

Rivers, LCSW and MPH, is owner and chief therapist with Rivers Psychotherapy Services PLLC, located in Gulfport.

Reach her at (707) 728-5131.

cover story

T he spiritual warrior Adversity only made Leah Tennyson Rodgers

stronger

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Leah Tennyson Rodgers is a walking affirmation.

From her jogger pants proclaiming “I am love,” to her Facebook page reminding followers that God is in control, the owner of Selah Yoga immerses herself in positive messages. Sometimes, she even pens them herself.

“Poetry and writing lyrics are a favorite pastime of mine,” Rodgers says. “It is also important for me to get in regular mindful movement like Pilates, yoga, walking, etc. to feel grounded and to take vitamins and minerals to support my physical wellbeing.”

Rodgers has learned that the way we talk to ourselves matters, and that wellness is a “total package” composed of several parts — mental, Photography by Brandi Stage Portraiture

www.gcwmultimedia.com

65

physical, spiritual and relational. Finding balance and inner peace is an ongoing journey, and one to which she brings a wealth of experience.

‘YOU CAN STILL SEE THE SCAR’

From the time she could walk, Rodgers was involved in the performing arts, which she went on to study at Centenary College of Louisiana. Trained in music and dance, she also modeled in her teens; then a cyst appeared on her face requiring emergency surgery.

“You can still see the scar,” she says. “It had formed tentacles, (and) they thought it might be cancer.”

The growth was benign, but prescribed medication caused Rodgers to have severe skin flare-ups. The condition would improve temporarily, then return, and she struggled to book jobs.

“I had an agent basically tell me it doesn’t matter that you’re a classically trained singer; we don’t care you can sing in four or five languages, or that you’re a classically trained dancer,” she recalls. “All of your training for years, your degree that’s in performing arts, doesn’t matter because no one wants to see you on camera.”

Making matters worse, hip and back injuries closed the door on another career path and ended an abiding love.

“Dance for me was like a soul mate. It was how I breathed,” Rodgers says. “So to not be able to breathe, to move, in a way that’s so intrinsic to who you are at a soul level was heartbreaking and devastating.”

TURNING TO YOGA

Suffering a miscarriage, feeling poorly about her appearance and having her passions curtailed caused the “perfect storm” for Rodgers’s mental health, sending her into a deep depression in 2013 and 2014. In her desperation, she wrote a letter to God, and another to her family, and prayed she wouldn’t wake up the next day.

“I was just like, ‘I’m done, God,’ she says. “If there’s nothing more than this, if there’s nothing else that I can do … .’ I didn’t feel like I was contributing to society or bringing light to the

world at all, and I just felt devastated.”

Rodgers had long been interested in yoga as cross-training for dance, so she signed up for teacher training — a decision that brought her back from the brink.

“When I was depressed, I felt like there was nothing else, that there was no way out, that this was just the way my life was,” she says. “And through different spiritual practices — prayer, affirmation, meditation, vision boards, all of that — I completely changed the direction of my life.”

In 2017, Rodgers started Selah Yoga in Pass Christian, which she has called “a culmination of my life experiences,” on a whim. Her husband, Bryan, has a business administration background, and Rodgers could no longer teach dance, “so yoga it was.”

“I wanted to create some place that was inspirational and fun, but also healthy and assessable to a variety of people,” she says. “Not everyone can do back bends or handstands, (but) that doesn’t mean they can’t also enjoy yoga, learn and be challenged. We also teach mindfulness and meditation practices everyone can benefit from, no matter their religious or spiritual beliefs.”

Through therapeutic, anatomy-informed yoga and Pilates, Rodgers has made headway in healing her body. She advocates working smarter, not harder, and rejects the idea that being fit requires “beating yourself up” with exercise.

“Mindful movement, and mindful awareness of what your body is capable of and what’s best for it in the short and long term, is so important in physical wellness,” she says, “and that’s really what we try to teach.”

Outside of the studio, Rodgers aspires to write a book about how people can use spiritual practices to align their lives.

Moments of self-doubt are inevitable, but she is now content with her life path — feeling strong in who she is and proud of how far she’s come.

“It’s still a work in progress …,” Rodgers says. “but there’s hope in working on it.”

“When I was depressed, I felt like there was nothing else, that there was no way out, that this was just the way my life was. And through different spiritual practices — prayer, affirmation, meditation, vision boards, all of that — I completely changed the direction of my life.”

HOW RODGERS DEFINES MINDFULNESS “Mindfulness is being aware and conscious of the decisions we make, including but not limited to our thought patterns, eating habits and emotions. When we make mindful choices, we become aware of thoughts and attitudes that need to change. When we shift in our inner selves, our outer selves and world change for the better as well.”

HER TIP FOR STAYING CENTERED “Have a regular affirmation practice — post it up, wear it on your T-shirt (or) save it on your phone as a reminder throughout the day. (Some of her favorites: “I am enough.”

“I am love.” “I am light.”) When needed, she’ll also say ‘align’ and take a deep breath, “which reminds me to line up with God, line up with the flow of the great ‘I Am,’ and remember I am an extension of him. It also can mean coming into alignment with your truest self, your highest self. It can mean a lot of different things to different people.”

HER FAVORITE SELF-CARE PRACTICES “Reading, speaking kindly to oneself, taking moments for quiet contemplation or prayer. Take naps!”

66

January-February 2020

SELAH YOGA TAKES AN

inspirational and anatomy integrated APPROACH TO YOGA AND WELLNESS

INTERESTED IN LEARNING THE BASICS OF YOGA? YOU CAN DO IT! JOIN A 4-WEEK COURSE

Selah Basics

Selah Basics is a beginner 4-week series that teaches the basics of Hatha Yoga; including postures, breathing techniques and mindful meditation techniques. This course is perfect if you are new to yoga, or simply want to learn more and brush up on the basics.

“All of the instructors are wonderful. They are able to tell me when I am not in proper alignment & adjust me with modifications....Leah is very enthusiastic & knowledgeable in regards to improving, no matter how small it may seem to me! I’m 64 & improving my core & my balance finally.

Wish I had started with yoga in my 20’s!”

We feature several different class levels and styles in addition to other services.

• Drop-in classes • Memberships • Yoga in a variety of levels and styles • Mat Pilates • Mindfulness • Privates (Individual & Group) • Deep relaxation Meditation-group or privates • On-site and off-site events and workshops • Specialty Wellness Events and Services

- Mildred Bolden Owner/Instructor LEAH RODGERS is a certified Yoga and a Pilates instructor and has a B.A. In Performing Arts; Vocal Performance, Theatre and Dance from Centenary College of Louisiana. She also is certified in PBT (Progressing Ballet Technique), which utilizes muscle memory to improve student’s understanding of core stability, weight placement, and alignment in order to help them achieve goals in classical ballet.

LIMITED SPOTS! RESERVE NOW! HTTPS://YOGAPASSCHRISTIAN.COM

www.gcwmultimedia.com

67

Andrea Dickerson’s

TRANSFORMATION STORY

WHY I DID THIS

I have been a yo-yo dieter my whole life, and the struggle with my weight was affecting my health and confidence.

I reached a breaking point where I knew I needed to do something about my bad eating habits before I ended up with diabetes or other health issues. As a mom, I have two little ones that look up to me, and I didn’t want them to see their mom struggling with her self-esteem and copying that behavior. I want to be a good role model and teach them good eating habits while they are young.

MY GOAL

My goal is to live a healthy and fulfilling life. As a believer in Christ, I believe we were made to live a life with purpose and joy. Through my fitness journey, my main goal is to support other women who have been struggling with the same things I did (food addictions, low self-esteem, negative self image, etc.) by encouraging them to take action and letting them know they, too, can triumph over their struggles.

WHAT I DID

Inviting God into this journey, and knowing I was made for much more than a vicious cycle of self-defeat, is helping me overcome my food addictions. It’s also helping me apply self-control and self-discipline daily, which are necessary to make this work. Also, eating healthy foods 80 percent of the time and using portion control instead of a restrictive diet is making a huge difference.

Another thing that’s helping is being more active. Every

68

day, I do an at-home workout routine, and I also belong to an amazing group of like-minded women who are my support system.

HOW IT WORKED

It is working great for me! So far, I have lost 44 pounds and went from a size 20 to size 10.

I am the healthiest I’ve ever been and have so much more energy.

AFTER

THE MOST DIFFICULT PART

Cleaning up my nutrition has been the hardest part. I still crave sweets, and it’s not easy to pass on fast food. The more I focus on taking one meal at a time and make the daily choice to stay on track, the more consistent I can be with this new lifestyle.

HOW I FEEL ABOUT MYSELF TODAY

I feel more confident, and although I’m not at my goal weight yet, I don’t feel uncomfortable in my own skin anymore.

MY ADVICE TO OTHERS

Don’t give up! Just because a specific diet or program is not working for you doesn’t mean you can’t get results. The best way to make a change is knowing it will take time and work to reach your goal.

If you never give up and take it day by day, soon you will start seeing small changes, and those will motivate you to keep going.

January-February 2020

Follow Andrea Dickerson on Instagram, @faithnfitnessmom, or email her at aa.dickerson90@gmail.com.

BEFORE

TAKE THE HASSLE AND STRESS OUT OF MOVING CALL AN AFFORDABLE, PROFESSIONAL MOVING SERVICE

228.297.5676 EXPERIENCED CREWS PERSONALIZED SERVICE FURNITURE PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE

Since 2004 LICENSED BONDED INSURED James D. Wilson, owner/operator

www.mightymenmoversms.com

CAREGIVER STRESS 10 SIGNS YOU NEED HELP

1. DENIAL about the disease and its effect on the person who has been diagnosed. “I know Mom is going to get better.”

2. ANGER at the failing loved one or frustration that he or she can’t do the things they used to be able to do.“She knows how to get dressed — she’s just being stubborn.”

3. SOCIAL WITHDRAWAL from friends and activities that used to make you feel good. “I don’t care about visiting with the neighbors anymore.”

4. ANXIETY about the future and facing another day.

“What happens when she needs more care than I can provide?”

5. DEPRESSION that breaks your spirit and affects your ability to cope. “I just don’t care anymore.”

6. EXHAUSTION that makes it nearly impossible to complete necessary daily tasks. “I’m too tired for this.”

7. SLEEPLESSNESS caused by a never-ending list of concerns.

“What if she wanders out of the house or falls and hurts herself?”

8. IRRITABILITY that leads to moodiness and triggers negative responses and actions. “Leave me alone!”

9. LACK OF CONCENTRATION that makes it difficult to perform familiar tasks. “I was so busy, I forgot my appointment.”

10. HEALTH PROBLEMS that begin to take a mental and physical toll.

“I can’t remember the last time I felt good.”

PRN CAN HELP.

— Alz.org

Let us carry part of the burden by providing sitters and homemakers to assist your loved one.

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT NOW! Information on financial resources available.

Call KEARN CHERRY We’ll help you figure out what you need and tailor the hours and services to fit

(228) 385-2603 or 888-782-3316

www.prnhomecareservices.com kearn@prnhomecareservices.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

69

Goal setting that

STICKS

BY JOCELYN GAVIN-LANE

T

his time of year, most of us look back at the past year to see which goals we’ve accomplished and which ones remain on our “to do” list.

So what happened to your goals from last year? Did you accomplish them? You may not believe this, but goal setting is art form. Along with taking time to sit down and intentionally set goals, it also requires focus and lots of thought.

Sometimes life happens, and many people abandon their goals or lose sight of what they wanted to achieve. One thing is constant: Intentional goal setting works. However, it’s up to you to make the goals stick.

HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR CREATING A GOAL-SETTING PLAN THAT STICKS: 1. DEVELOP AN INTENTIONAL PLAN

You must be clear on exactly what you want to achieve.

Vision boards are a creative way to start the goal-setting process each year. Write down your goals and keep them at the forefront. Make sure they remain in front of you.

2. FOCUS ON EACH GOAL SEPARATELY

Don’t get overwhelmed by all of the goals in your plan; take on each task individually.

3. ASSIGN EACH OF YOUR GOALS A COMPLETION DATE

This gives you an opportunity to revisit them at least monthly to ensure you are on track with 70

January-February 2020

your overall timeline. If there is not a date attached to each goal, it isn’t attainable.

4. SET BOUNDARIES AND AVOID DISTRACTIONS

There always will be distractions because life happens. Health, family and relationship issues can come up at any time. Avoiding distractions is hard, but it can be done. List your distractions so you know what you are facing. Have a plan for when they arise so you can set boundaries and tackle them head on.

5. GOAL SETTING REQUIRES A LEVEL OF COMMITMENT

You have to be dedicated to making this happen for yourself.

6. GET AN ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER

You need a partner to help you stay focused, especially on the hard days. Accountability partners offer support, and sometimes guidance, to help you stay on task. They are people you can bounce ideas off of, and they can help you rework goals that need tweaking. Set aside time monthly to meet with your accountability partner to review your progress.

Speaker, therapist and vision board guru Gavin-Lane is the owner of Premier Professional Counseling Services LLC and founder of Pink Lotus Project Inc. For more information about setting goals, or to download a free vision board template, visit jocelyngavinlane.com.

WITH FALL COMES RAGWEED ALLERGIES AND BACK TO SCHOOL ASTHMA ISSUES Call us today to schedule your appointment so you don’t miss anytime on the field or in the classroom!

3200 Mallett Rd., Suite D | D’Iberville, MS 39540 228-392-6875

NEW OFFICE HOURS MONDAY, TUESDAY & THURSDAY 8:00AM - 11:30AM & 12:30PM - 4:30PM WEDNESDAY 8:00AM - 11:30AM & 12:30AM - 6:00PM

Mark Murray, MD

FRIDAY - Closed

Specializing in Asthma & Allergic Diseases in Adults & Children www.gcwmultimedia.com 71

Training

FOR YOUR

body type

We live in a crazy, hectic world these days. Personal training takes precious time out of our busy day, and nothing is more flustering than going to the gym, putting in the time and not getting the results you want. The

BY NATASHA LOVE most common question I hear from clients is, “What is the best workout?”

The answer is not that simple. First of all, the person asking must determine her personal training goals. The two most common goals are losing weight and gaining muscle. To achieve either of these results, you must understand your body type and what type of training will give you the best results.

THERE ARE THREE BASIC HUMAN BODY TYPES: THE ENDOMORPH, THE ECTOMORPH AND THE MESOMORPH. THE ENDOMORPH The endomorph is physically square and blocky with shorter limbs. This thicker physique tends to gain weight and keep it on due to a slower metabolism.

• To lose weight, those with this body type should focus on more cardio than the other two body types. They also should consider limiting rest periods between exercises and adopting a HITT (high-intensity interval training) regimen.

• To gain more muscle mass, endomorphs should train like power lifters, with lower amounts of reps and plenty of rest time between exercises.

72

January-February 2020

THE ECTOMORPH The ectomorph usually is tall and skinny with long limbs.

People with this physique tend to have a difficult time gaining weight as either fat or muscle due to their high metabolism.

The main goal of ectomorphs is to gain more muscle mass.

To accomplish this, they must avoid intense cardio sessions.

They also must incorporate longer rest periods between exercises, use higher weight with lower reps and have workout routines that are short and to the point.

THE MESOMORPH The mesomorph is more of a middle-of-the-road body type that has traits of both an endomorph and an ectomorph.

These individuals tend to be naturally fit. They should train consistently with weights paired with moderate cardio.

Mesomorphs can train longer and hit muscle groups more frequently than the other two body types. They may focus on low reps or high reps, and either way, they will see results.

All of this being said, the most important factor is diet.

Seventy percent of how we look is attributed to what we eat. You can go to the gym five days a week, but if you eat unhealthy foods, you will not accomplish your goals.

Love is owner of Chic Physique, a private personal training studio. Reach her at trainwithlove@hotmail.com or (228) 264-0939.

Specializing in: Gentle Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Barre Intensity, Yoga Barre Fusion and

Launching January 2020 The Coast’s first Pilates Barre Fusion Class NEW CLIENT OFFER 14 DAYS OF UNLIMITED CLASSES FOR $37 VISIT OUR WEBSITE: THEYOGABARRE.NET

1107 Cowan Road, Suite E | Gulf por t, MS 39507 | 228-731-357 0 Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

Nationwide YMCA access! • Free Child Watch State-of-the-Art Fitness Center • Summer Camp Before & After School • Swim Lessons Swim Team • Preschool All Group Fitness Classes are included: Les Mills • Yoga • Cycling • Zumba • Barre • HIIT • LIT Active Adult • Functional Training • Kid Fit • Parkinson’s Fitness

FOR A BETTER YOU! Blossman Family YMCA 1810 Government St. Ocean Springs, MS 39564 228-875-5050

Tradition Family YMCA 12661 Village Ave. W Biloxi, MS 39532 228-831-8749

www.mgcymca.org www.gcwmultimedia.com

73

INTERMITTENT FASTING

To eat, or not to eat Intermittent fasting is not about restricting WHAT you eat, but instead about restricting WHEN you eat. This practice has many evidence-based health benefits, and there are many theories on how to do it. The one I’d like to discuss is

BY NATALIE GUESS the 16/8 method. This is where you fast for 16 hours of the day and eat for eight. For example, if your last meal is at 7 p.m., then you would wait until 11 a.m. to eat your next meal.

Simple enough, right? When you are fasting, you may have water, tea, coffee and other non-alcoholic beverages. This helps ward off hunger and keep you hydrated. Now, let’s talk about a few benefits of intermittent fasting.

When you fast, it changes the function of cells and hormones by dropping your insulin levels and increasing your production of human growth hormone. It also initiates important cellular repair. It’s almost like an internal cellular exfoliation, shedding the old cells and allowing your body to produce new, healthy cells.

Intermittent fasting also reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. This supports the body against aging

and disease.

Intermittent fasting also supports brain health because it supports the growth of new nerve cells, which benefits brain function overall. You will think more clearly and be more energized.

These are just a few of the advantages; we’re only scratching the surface. We didn’t even get to the weight loss aspect. This information may help you in determining whether you’d like to incorporate intermittent fasting into your lifestyle.

Now, I mentioned intermittent fasting doesn’t mean restricting what you eat, just when, but I do recommend feeding your body real food that’s not highly processed. For starters, instead of removing anything from your diet, I suggest trying to increase the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat. Your body, and mind, will thank you!

Guess is the executive director of Unmanned Coast and the Enterprise for Innovative Geospatial Solutions under the Magnolia Business Alliance. She is also a certified health and wellness coach through the Institute of Integrative Nutrition. Contact her at (985) 445-7270.

Matter to Us

YOUR NEEDS

AT BILOXI OB/GYN CLINIC

SERVICES

Well-woman Exams | Laparoscopic/Laser Surgery Urinary Incontinence Treatment Chronic Pain/Endometriosis Treatment da Vinci Robotic Technology for Hysterectomy Hysteroscopy Endometrial Ablation Treatment for Heavy & Painful Periods

COURTNEY MEREDITH, M.D. AND JOHN H. MALLET, M.D.

74

147 REYNOIR STREET, SUITE 105 | BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI | 228-436-6658 1720 MEDICAL PARK DRIVE, SUITE 300 | BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI | 228-702-1500 January-February 2020

style

Rachel Walklet

Frankly, My Dear ...

IT’S AN UPSCALE EXPERIENCE

Boutique inside Scarlet Pearl has high-end clothes, gifts galore

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

The name itself, inspired by Gone with the Wind’s most famous quote, conveys style and sophistication.

Step into Frankly My Dear Boutique, and that picture of Southern hospitality, merged with Hollywood glamour, becomes complete.

“The boutique has a silver glitter runway leading from the entrance to the counter, as well as a silk flower wall,” says Rachel Walklet, retail buyer for the store. “It is worth a visit to see that alone.”

Located inside Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, Frankly My Dear carries an array of upscale handbags, jewelry, gifts and decorative home and garden items, as well as fine, ready-towear clothes for men and women.

When the Scarlett Pearl opened, Scarlet’s Treasures was its only gift store. Frankly My Dear was added 18 months later and can be found on the lobby level across from the resort’s new coffee and pastry venue, Lounge Nocherie — allowing patrons to sip while they shop.

“We were quick to understand that our guests commanded a high-end boutique; a lavish environment to try on the latest fashions, browse jewelry collections or purchase unique items for their home or garden,” Walklet says.

The boutique recently partnered with What Goes Around

“The boutique has a silver glitter runway leading from the entrance to the counter, as well as a silk flower wall.”

Comes Around, a New York-based curator of luxury pieces, and it stocks high-end brands including Hobo, Hammitt, Capri Blue, Alexis Bittar, Jay Strongwater, Joseph Ribkoff, Robert Graham and others. As someone who has “always been obsessed with fashion,” and who once collected stacks of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar in her bedroom, Walklet says she loves how clothes can change someone’s entire persona.

“Growing up in England, I dragged my mother to London and Paris to window shop,” she says, “and today, I get to purchase those same designer pieces to be sold in our boutique.”

The biggest challenge for Frankly My Dear, according to Walklet, is constantly evolving to meet customers’ needs. The boutique always listens to requests, she adds, and adapts to fulfill them wherever possible.

The greatest reward, she explains, is serving a diverse clientele — seeing the joy and excitement on their faces when they find exactly what they’re looking for.

“Each day is different; we love visits from guests passing through while on vacation to those who visit us on a weekly basis,” Walklet says. “We pride ourselves on learning everyone’s personal style.”

IF YOU GO Frankly My Dear 9380 Central Ave., D’Iberville Sunday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday and Saturday 10 a.m.-midnight (228) 273-4971 www.ScarletPearlCasino.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

75

Mixin’ prints DON’T BE AFRAID TO GO BOLD WITH TEXTURE AND COLOR

BY JASMINE BALL

I know what you’re thinking ... mixing prints?

In your head, you’re probably saying, “Jasmine, now you know that will never Photo by Charletta Ball work for me.” I used to think the same thing. Most of the time, people believe mixing prints or colors is too bold and it would never work for them. I’m here to tell you that thought is incorrect.

For sure, it’s a bold move. But with knowledge about proportion and color, you can master mixing prints. Now that I know a little something about fashion, I finally understand how to mix prints for myself.

When mixing, I try to find a neutral color or pattern that I know looks good on me, makes me feel confident and reflects my personality. Blacks, dark navy, creams, grays and funky pops of color are the best for mixing.

One tip I find helpful is matching with color, not the print.

For example, If the base color of the print is black, find a top or pant that meshes well with it. Another thing I do often is look at Pinterest and Instagram. Usually, I search for my favorite celebrity stylist and see how they utilize color and texture to give me inspiration.

For my take on print mixing, I wanted to use this cute, black-and-white horizontal striped Forever 21 sweater and Target (Wild Fable) dark-navy-and-white, vertical-striped stretch pants. It’s crazy how good this color combo is. I paired it with an open-toed mule for a pop of color. I love this fit so much! It’s comfy, cute and casual, but stylish.

I hope you all give mixing a try, especially throughout the upcoming seasons.

Jasmine Ball is a Mississippi fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogger. Pictures were captured by Jabez Taylor and Charletta Ball. Connect with Jasmine via Instagram (Miss_ ball23), her blog site (www.theball-post.com) or by email at theballpost1@gmail.com.

76

January-February 2020

www.gcwmultimedia.com

77

g n i l l i p S her secret KRYSTAL BEN

Krystal Ben is a woman of many titles: wife to husband Maurice Ben; mother to two daughters, Taylor, 8, and Joy, 3; and owner of Hair Fetish Beauty bar in Biloxi and Wiggins.

Wearing many hats means Ben doesn’t have much time to get ready, so she relies on these go-to items to look and feel her best in a hurry.

78

January-February 2020

NYX MATTE PRIMER This is perfect for someone who has oily skin. If I were dealing with oily skin and humidity without this product, I would be super shiny throughout the day.

MAC STUDIO FIX The coverage is amazing and light; I love the fact it doesn’t take much. It’s also a powder, which is great.

KERA CARE STYLING WAX STICK If you struggle with flyaways, here you go, sis.

This is a must have if you hate dealing with those

little, stray strings of hair that have a mind of their own. This product definitely will tame them.

BARE MINERALS GLOSS IN COLOR BRILLIANT This is my alltime fave natural lip gloss. I love a good nude because you can dress it up or down and slay any occasion.

MAYBELLINE GREAT LASH Every woman has that one little thing that makes her feel pretty, and this it for me.

Mascara is one of the simplest ways to glam up your everyday look.

J’ADORE EAU DE PARFUM J’adore Eau de Parfum by Christian Dior is a fragrance that will turn heads the moment you walk into a room. This is one of my favorite scents, as it is soft and subtle.

BAYOU BANGLES, EMBRACE HANDMADE JEWELRY BY MC These babies are the perfect arm candy. I love that I can dress them up or down. Did I mention they are stackable? These are my all-time fave bangles.

NOW OPEN ACCEPTING ALL INSURANCES

General, Cosmetic, and Surgical Dermatology To provide the highest level of care and customer service to each and every patient seen within our clinic.

KEONI NGUYEN, D.O., FAOCD FASMS

MARISA SHANNON MCGEORGE, FNP-BC, C.A.N.S.

Dr. Nguyen specializes in General Dermatology & Skin Cancer Surgery.

Marisa specializes in General Dermatology and Cosmetic procedures.

SKIN CANCER | CYSTS | ACNE | PSORIASIS WARTS | EZCEMA | HAIR LOSS LUPUS | ROSACEA

BOTOX | DYSPORT | JUVEDERM RESTYLANE | MICRONEEDLING WITH PRP LASER TREATMENTS | JEUVEAU CHEMICAL PEELS FOR ACNE SUN DAMAGE | SKIN DISCOLORATION AGING SKIN

Dr. Nguyen treats all conditions related to the skin, hair and nails. He also treats patients of all ages.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS IN OUR BILOXI OFFICE:

1009 Tommy Munro Dr., Ste. A, Biloxi, MS 39532

P: 228-232-0872 | F: 228-232-0874

www.pinebeltderm.com www.gcwmultimedia.com 79

The Newest Boutique in Downtown Ocean Springs Owned by April Bullock Burks of

Latisha Lewis Price

Independent Beauty Consultant

900 Washington Ave. | Ocean Springs

228.215.0788 80

January-February 2020

www.marykay.com/latishalewisprice or latishalewis30@gmail.com

228-617-0188

HOURS: Monday - Friday 10 - 6 | Saturday 10 - 3

Haircuts | Highlights | Balayage | Color Special Occasion Hair Styling | Hair Extension Spray Tanning | Waxing | Makeup | Eyelash Extensions

228-875-4233 To view Before and After pictures please visit

@salonrougems

6905 Washington Ave. | Ste. C Ocean Springs, MS 39564 WWW.SALONROUGE-MS.COM

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, mother/daughter outing, 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

www.gcwmultimedia.com

81

Obsessions PRODUCTS THAT LOVE YOU BACK!

love

MANDARIN ORANGE SPICE BY CELESTIAL SEASONINGS Some people live for coffee. Well, I love tea. It’s so much more flavorful and gives you that same warm hug that coffee offers.

I spotted the Mandarin Orange Spice on the coffee bar at church and grabbed a tea pouch on the way out. I’m now hooked on this herbal blend of tart oranges, cloves, coriander and other spices. I’m believing the hype: “transports tea drinkers to exotic Asian destinations with every sip . …”

Dorothy P. Wilson Publisher & Editor

LINDT LINDOR TRUFFLES CHOCOLATE — need I say more?

It’s the ultimate indulgence, and these sweet, creamy treats are pure bliss. They also are the perfect size if you just want a taste, but go ahead and have several. I won’t tell.

Sherry Moxley Seaman Business Development Manager

When you work hard like the GCW team does, you deserve a little indulgence.

Here’s how we treat ourselves — on any ol’ day! (These are also great gift ideas!)

CAT EYEWEAR Every pair of glasses I own has a different look, and I love to accessorize with eyewear.

Make it fun! You can’t go wrong with a pair of Cat Eyewear glasses. Just fill them with your prescription and sport them with attitude.

Latisha Price Customer Service Specialist

DR. TEAL’S SOOTHE AND SLEEP LAVENDER FOAMING BATH After a long day, nothing beats a warm, relaxing bubble bath. I add a couple of capfuls of this magical potion to the running water, and all my stress melts away. Lavender is my favorite scent (so soothing!), and the fragrance makes me feel like I’m in my own personal spa.

Jennifer Gentile Contributing Editor and Writer

What’s your latest product obsession? Share it with us! Post it on our Facebook page or email Jen@ gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

SHEAMOISTURE AFRICAN BLACK SOAP CLARIFYING MUD FACE MASK - TAMARINDEXTRACT & TEA TREE OIL As a busy mom juggling work and home life, I dream for a day at the spa basking in every treatment from head to toe. In reality, I’m good if I can squeeze in 15-30 minutes. This is why I love athome face mask treatments! This one in particular is great for my acne-prone, sensitive skin. It purges my pores without the irritation and leaves my skin feeling rejuvenated.

Crystal Scretching Tip: Add a foot mask and your Digital Content Manager favorite Netflix show to the

equation to completely unwind.

82

January-February 2020

“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!”

• FIFTEEN TWENTY

JOIE • M I L LY • K E L LY W Y N N E • S H A L L A W I S TA

A Gallery Gift Shop Celebrating the Creative Spirit!

RAMY BROOK

•

•

• Owner Dorothy Roberts’ grandson.

Q

Need a gift for krewe members for

• MOTHER DENIM

LOEFFLER RANDALL

DEE KELLER

•

•

•

TIBI

N ATA L I E B

REBECCA MINKOFF

•

AT M

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

MARDI GRAS? We have some great choices.

Q

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

83

Photo by AJH Photography

At Ladidaa,

every woman is special

Ladidaa owner Windy Stanton, center, and team members Shelby Thib odeaux, left, and Hannah Tanner

BILOXI BOUTIQUE CATERS TO ALL AGES, SIZES

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

W

indy Stanton developed a passion for fashion early in life, starting with the Sears and J.C. Penney catalogs her mother received in the mail.

“My sisters and I would dissect those catalogs, with dog-eared pages and notebooks full of how to mix and match outfits,” recalls Stanton, now the owner of Ladidaa Boutique in downtown Biloxi.

Stanton worked at J.C. Penney during college and went on to acquire an extensive background in leadership, sales and business – including her own wedding consulting company. She had an example of entrepreneurship in her mother-in-law, who ran a fine dress store in Waco, Texas, called Olga’s with her mother and sister.

“They were famous for their style, elegance and hospitality and dearly loved by their community,” she says. “They inspired me to do the same in Biloxi.”

Eager to join the downtown renaissance, Stanton launched Ladidaa in June 2019 on the west end of Howard Avenue, with her daughter, Julie Stanton, serving as chief operating officer. The

84

January-February 2020

name Ladidaa is meant to convey a sense of fun, she explains, and “not taking anything too seriously — including ourselves.”

“We chose this location because we love Biloxi,” Stanton says of herself and her family. “Our children grew up here.

We are retiring here. We want to see downtown Biloxi become a fabulous place for people to stroll and shop, and have a cup of coffee, and see a show, and wander into some really amazing shops.”

At her store, she adds, shoppers can find clothes for every age and every size — from small to 3X — at affordable prices. The boutique is starting to carry some vintage pieces and jewelry, as well as a few medium- to high-end designers like Sara Shaw jewelry, Makeup Junkie bags, Tokyo Milk lotions and perfumes and Stivali shoes.

“I think most women find our boutique a pleasant surprise,” Stanton says.

With Ladidaa’s popular teen line and plenty of offerings for mature women, Stanton says mothers and daughters can shop together and both leave with something they love. Helping her spread

the word about the store are her other team members, Shelby Thibodeaux and Hannah Tanner, who serve as social media gurus, models and assistants in all areas of running the business.

Stanton admits to being nervous about doing live video sales, but she also realized she didn’t have to be perfect.

“Ladies want to know they are dealing with a real person with real problems — dirty dishes in the sink, clothes needing folding and hair that won’t do what it’s supposed to do,” she says.

Stanton says she and her team want to form face-to-face relationships with their customers — who are making a positive impact on their community by shopping local.

“Every single woman who walks through our doors is special,” the owner adds. “We are all struggling with something, and a kind word goes a long way. We strive to be the kind of friend we all want to have in our lives.”

IF YOU GO

871-C Howard Ave., Biloxi Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

(228) 207-4906 | www.ladidaa.com Facebook/Instagram: @Ladidaaboutique

your appointment is scheduled for your appointment is sch

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

by RACHAEL HOLLINGSWORTH, owner/stylist

Rachael Hollingsworth | Owner/Stylist

3950 1308 college gulfport, 1308 st.| Nailsms gulfpor Cuts | st.

Color college | |Extensions | MakeUp FACEBOOK TWITTER PINTR INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK TWITT INSTAGRAM Spray Tanning | Eyelash Extensions | Waxing polishedblowoutandbeautybar.com 228.2 228.206.5465 | 850.276.0048 polishedblowoutandbeautybar.c 1308 College St. | Gulfport, MS | 228.206.5465 Tues - Sat 9a - 6p | Sun and Mon by Appointment Only

INSTAGRAM

Visit us on facebook to learn all the benefits of

PRO FACIAL/HYDRO FACIAL & DERMAPLANING PINTR FACEBOOK TWITTER FACEBOOK TWITT INSTAGRAM

A Hybrid Boutique Polish Pottery Women’s Apparel & Accessories Gifts • Café Illy Coffee 136 Rue Magnolia | Biloxi, MS 228-967-7424 www.gcwmultimedia.com

85

4

3

2

1

1. DR. BRANDT SKINCARE MICRODERMABRASION SKIN EXFOLIANT Nothing makes my skin feel softer and more buttery than this tube of magic. Exfoliating your skin twice a week will remove dull, dead cells and leftover makeup effectively, leaving your skin baby-smooth. And best of all, this one is formulated with perfectly round, professional-grade crystals that will not leave your skin with micro-tears and scratches other popular fruit and nut scrubs can cause.

TIP: If you want to try before investing, head to your local Sephora and grab a three-day sample. (drbrandtskincare.com, from $15) 2. JERGENS NATURAL GLOW INSTANT SUN SUNLESS TANNING MOUSSE Preserve your skin, ladies! Ditch the tanning bed for a sunless tanner STAT! Of all of the sunless tanners I’ve used, both mousses and booths, this is the least expensive and most natural looking. It is so easy and forgiving to apply, and the color goes on smoothly and leaves you with a believable bronze that lasts all week. (walgreens.com, $4.99) 3. BITE BEAUTY AGAVE LIP MASK I can’t be the only one with desert-dry lips during the winter? If you’re looking to heal your lips and leave them feeling supremely moisturized with agave nectar and jojoba oil, try this clean, nightly lip mask. Best of all, it’s formulated with natural ingredients and free of sulfates, formaldehydes, mineral oils and synthetic fragrances. (bitebeauty.com, $26)

HEALTHY IS THE

new happy

BY CRISSY COX

In a time when health and wellness are more meaningful than ever, it’s important to many of us that our skin and bodies reap the benefits of the best ingredients available.

Let’s take a peak at just a few products that will leave your skin feeling pretty and nourished.

86

January-February 2020

4. PÜR 4-IN-1 LOVE YOUR SELFIE LONGWEAR FOUNDATION AND CONCEALER Who doesn’t love easy? This foundation, packed with an array of skin-loving ingredients, is long-wearing, full coverage and helps to protect against environmental stressors like pollution and high-energy blue light for a healthier-looking complexion. This foundation-concealer hybrid also is cruelty free, gluten free and vegan friendly. (ulta.com, $36.00) Cox is a freelance makeup artist on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, specializing in on-location wedding and special event makeup. Contact her or learn more at facebook.com/ CrissyCoxMUA.

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

228-215-1203 @buycharisma

www.gcwmultimedia.com

87

CELEBRATE FEMALE FRIENDSHIP WITH

Bubbles & Bonbons A Galentine's Affair is Feb. 7

For those who may not be familiar with the unofficial holiday, the concept is pretty simple: Celebrating your besties before the world gets overrun by lovey-dovey Valentine’s Day. Amy Poehler’s character on the show “Parks and Recreation” famously referenced Galentine’s Day as a time reserved for women celebrating women,, honoring female friendships and camaraderie “It’s like Lilith Fair,” she said, “minus the angst. Plus frittatas.”

The Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art is hosting its third annual Galentine’s Day event, Bubbles & Bonbons: A Galentine’s Affair, on Friday, Feb. 7, from 6-8 p.m. Guests can enjoy an evening tasting sparkling wines, sampling sweet and savory delicacies from top Coast restaurants, and dancing to the soulful sounds of Symone French.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the museum’s children’s exhibitions gallery, located in the Mississippi Sound Welcome Center.

Brenda Blount, director of development for the museum, says the Ohr-Keefe views art as a path leading to self-reflection, creative problem solving and social change; it creates dynamic and profound interactions that shape personal identities and strengthen our Gulf Coast community.

She adds that the museum is dedicated to providing access to creative learning to all children in our community via interactive art exhibits and educational programs. A The event is co-presented by Gulf Coast Woman magazine.

IF YOU GO

Tickets are $25 and are available via Facebook, online at www. georgeohr.org/museum-store/ or by calling (228) 374-5547.

LIFE IS

TOO SHORT TO HAVE

Ladidaa Boutique 871C HOWARD AVE ~ DOWNTOWN BILOXI Join Ladidaa Ladies VIP FB/IG @ LADIDAABOUTIQUE

Sizes Small-3x BRING THIS AD IN FOR

10% OFF YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE 88

January-February 2020

BORING HAIR.

Cristina Switzer 228-323-0583

THE DISTRICT SALON 8950 Lorraine Rd., Ste. D Gulfport | 228-234-3199 RANDY BARRAS AND FRIENDS 122 Fayard St. | Biloxi 228.374.6829

Formerly Wild Gypsy Boutique

Come Shop Our

January Clearance Spring Arriving Soon SHOP ONLINE @ islandgirloutfitters.com

We Carry:

 Simply Southern  Natural Life  Glister & Original Mermaid  Super Cool Tees  Finchberry Soaps  Bathbombs, Candles & Gifts  Yellow Box  Complimentary Gift Wrap  Glitter Sunscreens and Lotions!!

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

ISLANDGIRLOUTFITTERS.COM

Bye, Bye, Bra!

HI-LIGHT & CUT

SPECIAL $95 with select stylists

TRIM YOUR WAIST & SMOOTH YOUR BACK

Ask Me How To Ditch Your BRA Book your

SPA PEDICURE | SHELLAC NAILS POWDER COATING | WALK-INS WELCOME

FREE

Cami Fitting Today

We fit a 32B cup to a 50P cup.

ALEXANDER DEEKS / Owner Master Stylist / Color Specialist

before

after

before

after

Ruby Ribbon

1115 Cowan Rd. | Gulfport, MS 39507

Find me on Facebook @ SONYA’S BRA FREE BEAUTIES

www.salonalexanders.com

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT TODAY! Sonya Tyrney | 601-480-0960 Mention this ad and get 10% OFF if you decide to order.

228-896-3352 www.gcwmultimedia.com

89

home & family HOW TO

Joyfully

organize

AND STORE YOUR HOLIDAY DÉCOR The excitement of decking the halls often is replaced with a groan when it’s time to pack it away.

Here are some ways to transform this task from drudgery to delight.

START WITH GRATITUDE

BY HEATHER YOUNG

No matter how lavish or humble, each item that brought joy and meaning to our celebrations can inspire us to be thankful — for abundance, for shared moments with family and friends, for the beauty of the season. As you handle each one, take time to appreciate its role in making your holiday special.

REMOVE AND STORE SIMILAR ITEMS TOGETHER

Whenever possible, put away decor by category, such as lights, garlands, wreaths, ornaments, stockings, candles, mantel displays, holiday dishes and outdoor decor. Subcategorize as needed.

LOOK FOR DISCARD/DONATE/REPAIR

Notice the condition of each item before you pack it. If you don’t envision using it again, responsibly discard, donate or sell it. If you want to keep it and it needs repair, better to do it now than add to next year’s to-do list!

USE PROPER PACKING SUPPLIES AND STORAGE CONTAINERS

To keep decor protected, use plastic, sealable bags for groups of small non-fragile items, wrap less fragile decor in tissue paper, and use an extra layer of bubble wrap around your fragile treasures. Ornaments are easily stored in boxes with layered internal cardboard dividers. Wreaths can be placed in round or square boxes with their ornaments inside their centers. Artificial garlands should be coiled into their containers. Items too large to box up can be draped with a sheet to protect them from dust. As you pack the boxes and containers, note on an index card what goes inside, and then label, label, label!

With holiday decor joyfully appreciated, respectfully packed and strategically stored, the season can end as cheerfully as it started!

90

January-February 2020

Heather Young, of Tidy and Calm LLC, is a certified KonMari consultant. She and her team use the KonMari Method™ to transform home organizing into a once-in-a-lifetime, joyful event.

Reach her at www.tidyandcalm.com.

“Tell ‘Em Lexi and Nick Sent Ya!”

Don’t forget to check out LEXI’S BOUTIQUE located inside the store. and be sure to follow Lexi’s Boutique on @Lexi’s Boutique @lexisboutiquebiloxi

228.388.2988

264 BEAUVOIR RD. | BILOXI www.gcwmultimedia.com 91 OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 9AM - 6PM

1. BRASS EVERYTHING

Yes, the brass trend has been around for a while, and it’s here to stay. With that being said, the finish is definitely antique — bye, bye shine. This is such an easy trend to add to your home decor in 2020. It just adds that touch of modern glamor to the space. Not to mention, brass can be added to any decor style — bohemian, modern, coastal, traditional … the list goes on. I’m obsessed with brass and acrylic anything, so table lamps with a brass base were a must for me.

Insider scoop: You can expect to see brass finishes in this year’s St. Jude Dream Home.

2. CANE AND RATTAN

If you have followed my designs at all, you know I absolutely love mixing materials. Cane and rattan have been hot trends over the past year, and I’m so excited to announce they’re here to stay. This is such an easy trend to incorporate for a coastal touch and feel.

Furniture is becoming increasingly popular in these materials, and something about cane brings that traditional touch to any type of decor.

3. ABSTRACT ARTWORK

2020 TRENDS

BY ADRIENNE ELLIOTT

New year, fresh look

What better way to feel fresh and new in 2020 than by incorporating some of the latest and hottest design trends? Remember, you don’t have to adopt every trend at once. In fact, selecting just a few will keep your space unique and personal. Here are my top three favorite trends for 2020:

92

January-February 2020

Artwork is so important and can completely transform the way your home looks. In my designs, I always use neutral pieces, but I am so in love with the abstract art trend. If you look online anywhere, you will see that this trend continues to grow. It’s such a fun way to update your space and create an entirely new look.

ADD ALL THREE

I hope you feel inspired to shop for some 2020 trend pieces! Imagine if you added a small touch of my top three trends to your home, how new and fresh it would look. If you do, please share your photos with me on social media! Welcome to 2020 — a new year and a fresh look!

Adrienne Elliott is an interior designer, fashion enthusiast, wife and mom to three girls. Learn more about her at adrienneelliott.com or follow her follow her on Instagram (@adrienneelliott___) for design tips and trends.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

93

AS SEEN ON “MY COAST HOME”

Dream kitchens Every week on “My Coast Home,” we take you inside some of the most spectacular properties for sale on the Coast. The kitchen is the heart of any home, and we’ve compiled some of our favorites from the show to get you inspired.

Photo provided by Owen & Co. LLC. Real Estate

“Wow”

In the market for a home, or just enjoy getting a peek inside beautiful spaces?

Make sure to watch “My Coast Home” on Sundays at 4 p.m. on WLOX.

94

January-February 2020

“Wow” seems to be the only appropriate word for this gleaming white kitchen in Ocean Springs. It’s bright. It’s grand. It’s a room we’d never want to leave.

Fabul ous!

As this Gulfport kitchen proves, gray is always a good idea. And don’t forget to look up — the ceiling is fabulous!

Photo provided by HL Raymond Properties LLC

Gorgeous

We can imagine how much fun it would be to entertain in this Bay St. Louis kitchen, which has plenty of prep space and gorgeous high ceilings. The airy layout and stylish appliances take this one over the top.

Photo provided by Owen & Co., LLC. Real Estate

Views

Striking the right balance between traditional and modern is a challenge, but this kitchen in Kiln makes it look effortless. The warm tones give the space an inviting feel — and can we talk about those views?!

Photo provided by HL Raymond Properties, LLC

www.gcwmultimedia.com

95

Photograph provided by Owen & Co., LLC. Real Estate

For the chef

This Biloxi kitchen is a true chef’s paradise — large and open with great amenities like a gas cooktop and subzero refrigerator. When function meets style (check out those sleek, modern cabinets!), it’s a beautiful thing.

Elegant

Elegant and tasteful, this Ocean Springs kitchen lets in lots of natural light — always a plus. And we’re big fans of the cabinetry and finishes.

Photograph provided by Owen & Co., LLC. Real Estate

Gl ow!

The golden glow of this stunning Gulfport kitchen stops us in our tracks. The attention to detail here is obvious, and we’re loving the natural oak floors and granite countertops.

Photograph provided by HL Raymond Properties, LLC

96

January-February 2020

Spec and Pre-sale Homes Available for Purchase Custom Home Design Build Services Conveniently Located in the Tradition Discovery Center CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION

CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION 12500 VILLAGE CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION AVENUE EAST, TRADITION, BILOXI MS 39532 WWW.TOOTLEHOMES.COM WWW.TOOTLEHOMES.COM • 228.697.6581 • DESIGN@TOOTLEHOMES.COM • 228.697.6581 • DESIGN@TOOTLEHOMES.COM WWW.TOOTLEHOMES.COM 228.697.6581 DESIGN@TOOTLEHOMES.COM

CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION WWW.TOOTLEHOMES.COM • 228.697.6581 • DESIGN@TOOTLEHOMES.COM

www.gcwmultimedia.com

97

Mardi Gras

o b m a M Tamara Child gold martini glasses HERITAGE HOUSE

Locally made, 5-by-7-inch ceramic plaques

by Clay Creations — King Cake Baby, Mardi Gras Tractor, Bead Tree $30 a piece.

GALLERY 220/ CLAY CREATIONS

Cast iron fleur de lis doorstop, $39.99; Boston International fleur de lis bowl with knife, $24.95; perfect gumbo spoon set of six with fleur de lis design, $24.95; festive glassware, $34.95; fleur de lis ceramic salt and pepper shaker, $14.95; Boston International fleur de lis serve ware set, $19 ROBIN’S NEST IN THE PASS

98

January-February 2020

Magnolia Creative Co. Ceramic Mardi Gras mask oval platter, $60.50 THE PAPER MOON

BILOXI $477,000 0 HWY 67 AND WOOLMARKET RD. 2.3 AC COM NW COR E 1/2 OF NE 1/4 SEC 3-7-10 E 46.2 FT TO E MAR JIM BYRD RD FOR BEG E 311.2 FT TO HWY 67 SWLY ALG HWY 5

Great commercial location in fast growing area of Woolmarket community, high visibility at northwest corner of Woolmarket Rd. & Hwy 67 & across from gas station on the southwest corner of Hwy 67.

BILOXI $475,000 0 WOOLMARKET RD.

BEG 442 FT E OF NW COR OF NW 1/4 OF NE 1/4 E 442 FT S TO S LINE OF SE 1/4 OF SE 1/4 W 442 FT N TO BEG BEING MIDDLE 1/3 O

Fast growing Woolmarket 40 acre site on Woolmarket Road. With I-10 to the south and minutes to a new subdivision starting soon—across the street from subject site. Wetlands on site; Split zoning Limited Business on Woolmarket Road and Regional Business on I-10 (no access from 1-10 except at off ramp).

Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty, Inc Cynthia S. Joachim, REALTOR cynthia.joachim@coldwellbanker.com Office: 228-287-1000 Direct: 228-760-6865 www.alfonso.com

228-896-7734

618 COURTHOUSE ROAD GULFPORT, MISSISSIPPI 39507-2506

TWICE A WEEK PICKUP AND DELIVERY SERVICE TO YOUR HOME OR OFFICE Service Area - Pass Christian to Pascagoula

Convenient Monthly Billing

NEW OWNER DAVID LEE “THE CLEANERS THAT COMES TO YOU”

LILY AND LAURA

STACKABLES

PERFECT FOR

Mardi Gras Gifts AND BALLS

Heritage House Gifts GIFTS FOR ALL OCCASIONS 738 East Pass Road • Gulfport, MS 39507

228.897.7644 www.gcwmultimedia.com

99

Moms — You’ve got this!

FROM

GCW AFFILIATE

More balance, less

BY APRIL LOLLAR

Just another manic Monday and Tuesday and Wednesday ….

Alarm. Snooze. Alarm. Snooze. Alarm.

Panic. Shower. Wake up 8-year-old. Wait five minutes. Second attempt to wake up 8-year-old. Dry hair. Brush teeth. Make sure we have: lunchbox, water bottle, folder, are folder things signed? Are practice/dance clothes ready? Has 8-yearold brushed teeth? Make 8-year-old brush teeth. Are those shorts clean? Why are they so wrinkled? No time to worry about it. Feed dogs. Pick up dog poop.

Breakfast? Microwave veggie cup and throw granola bar at 8-year-old. Makeup?

Do it in the car. GET IN THE CAR! Just make car line before the school door closes. Work. Work, work, work. Skip lunch because of afternoon schedule.

Look at checklist. Nope, none of those things got done. Realize I am about to be late picking up 8-year-old. Leave work 20 minutes early to get him to dance, but still arrive at dance an hour late because I’m the only person who works in an office that closes at 5? Ponder where everyone else works. Consider sending resume to magical flexible schedule place. Drop off 8-year-old. Perfect time for: A) running errands or B) breaking out the laptop in the parking lot to finish at least one thing on that work checklist.

Pick up 8-year-old. It is 8 p.m. Chick-

100

January-February 2020

Fil-A drive through for dinner. Arrive home. Make 8-year-old bathe, brush teeth, check folder, make lunch for tomorrow.

It’s 9:30?! Usher 8-year-old to bed. Curl up next to 8-year-old for “just a minute” for prayers. Fall asleep. Wake up in 8-yearold’s bed at 1:30 a.m. and stumble to own bed.

Repeat. Repeat. Repeat. Add performance schedules, competitions, baseball season in the spring, school projects, family obligations, work obligations and travel, etc. If you have multiple children in multiple activities, I am not even sure how this works. You have sister wives? Any army of retired grandparents? You won the lottery? I can’t figure it out, but I salute you!

The days are full. So full, in fact, that there is little room left for things like rest, family dinners or self-care. And I don’t mean spa treatments and getaways when I say self-care. I mean eating at a table and not in the car, seeing your spouse for more than the seconds you brush past one another in the hall with a basket of laundry, reading a book or enjoying a hot cup of coffee.

BACK IN MY DAY

Once upon a time, there were seasons for sports and other activities. Not that juggling schedules has ever been easy, but having multiple kids participating

burnout

"...when he looked at me and said he just wanted to be a kid for a while, it made me stop and take note. He was experiencing burnout at the tender age of 8, and I wasn’t okay with that."

in multiple activities used to be at least slightly more feasible. Eventually, though, people began figuring out they could make money on select leagues and competition teams, and we as parents decided providing the best for our kids meant extra lessons, longer seasons and more practice.

I believe in the wonderful things that youth sports and activities can do for kids, and I believe in the lessons they learn when they win and lose and try. I like to think that I don’t believe activities should trump family time, our faith or having a healthy budget, but my actions don’t always reflect that belief. We’ve made a conscious effort to ensure our actions reflect our beliefs this year, but it only began when our now 9-year-old decided not to dance this year. I was sad

when he made that decision. I tried to talk him out of it, but when he looked at me and said he just wanted to be a kid for a while, it made me stop and take note. He was experiencing burnout at the tender age of 8, and I wasn’t okay with that.

LET THEM BE LITTLE

I still miss dance in many ways. But, now, we get home most nights between 5:30 and 6. There is time to check homework and make dinner. The days are still full. We are still busy, but we also have a little more time to breathe. He has more time to ride his skateboard, play with his dogs and swing in his hammock with a good book.

He is still active and played a short baseball season this fall. He is talking about picking up an activity this spring, too. One advantage of this slower pace is that he has time to explore a little more and decide what he really enjoys. I have a feeling he might be ready for dance again next year, and if he is, I will be his biggest fan. I also will fight for a schedule that allows time for rest and family dinners.

BALANCING ACTIVITIES AND HEALTHY HABITS

Research – We’ve always believed it’s important to finish what you start and to show a certain level of commitment in whatever you do. We still believe that, especially if you are part of a team, but I think we will take more time to have realistic conversations about time commitments and expectations before we jump into a new activity. We also will get details about the financial impact the activity will have on our household.

Guide them – In our desire to be supportive parents, we can fall into the trap of allowing our kids to dictate how we spend our time and our money. We have to be willing to say no if the time or financial commitments will put a strain on the family.

• The non-negotiables – Figure out what your non-negotiables are, and stick to them. Maybe that’s allowing each kid to pick one activity or choosing a rec league over a travel team. Maybe you want to go all-in with every activity. What works for another family won’t necessarily work for you, but figure out what

makes the most sense for the people in your home and commit.

• Actions should reflect beliefs – If church or school are our priorities, choose activities that allow you to keep them priorities. Our kids will watch what we do more than they will listen to what we say.

• Listen to your kid – If your 8, 10 or 15-year-old tells you they are exhausted, if their grades are slipping or if they are struggling mentally, listen to them. We shouldn’t let kids quit the first time they meet adversity, but we should make their physical and mental health our priority. We may need to reconsider our definition of success. Starring in a play or making a touch down are wonderful accomplishments, but being healthy wins every single time.

A Coast resident since 2000, Lollar is a wife, mom, communications director for a local company and Gulf Coast Moms Blog contributor. Learn more about her at gulfcoast.citymomsblog.com/about-us/ meet-writing-team/.

Opening Doors to Homeownership 228-222-4095

504-444-9522

gmfsmortgage.com/diamondhead

GMFS LLC is an Equal Housing Lender. All mortgages are originated by GMFS LLC at 7389 Florida Blvd. Suite 200A Baton Rouge, LA 70806. NMLS #64997.

Branch is located at 5411 Indian Hill, Diamondhead, MS 39525. Branch NMLS #1208331. This is not a commitment to lend.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

101

Time to Upgrade?

One call, and we'll fix it all!

Mississippi Gulf Coast

Home Repairs, Remodeling & Roofing MS Lic.#18070

228-297-9701 2953 Bienville Blvd., Ocean Springs | CustomConstructionSvcs.com

HOWARD’S PAINT & DECORATING

MARK & VICKI HOWARD Mark and Vicki Howard are the husband and wife team behind the 27-year success of Howard’s Paint and Decorating. Howard’s sells Benjamin Moore and Richards paint. Vicki’s passion is helping customers color coordinate their homes.

SELF STORAGE UNITS AVAILABLE

2020 Happy New Year

Paint is the least expensive product you have in your home but it can make the biggest difference.

9434 Three Rivers Rd. Gulfport, MS 39503 (228) 864-5969 Fax (228) 864-5973

Climate Control & Drive Up Units Boat & RV Storage | Summer Storage Month to Month Rental Agreements Automatic Pay Plans We Sell Boxes and Packing Supplies

228-868-7794 | 500 Pass Rd | Gulfport 102

January-February 2020

GIVE US A CALL TODAY AT

(228) 374-0067 FOR A FREE QUOTE

or drop in at our office at 1009 Howard Ave in DOWNTOWN BILOXI, MS

www.beaconinsuranceservices.net DON'T LET BUILDING A NEW HOME LEAVE YOU FRAYED AROUND THE EDGES...

Exterior Solutions • WINDOWS • DOORS • SIDING • STUCCO • STONE • INSULATION • ROOFING • POOL FINISHES • GARAGE DOORS • FIREPLACES

(228) 863-1221 exteriorsolutionsms.com

HIRE ME INSTEAD...

As a New Home Sales Specialist with experience working with home builders across the coast, I would be honored to guide you

SUPPLYING YOUR BUILDING NEEDS

Superior Insulation

SAVE ENERGY, SAVE MONEY INVEST IN SPRAY FOAM AND FIBERGLASS INSULATION

www.superiorinsulationms.com

throughout the entire home building journey. Best of all, my assistance is free. Peace of Mind - PRICELESS!

CALL NOW TO START SAVING SCHEDULE A FREE QUOTE AND CONSULTATION

Susan Siemiontkowski, REALTOR 228-875-1272 Office 228-239-2621 Direct

BeaconInsServices.indd 1

Call (228) 214 – 2303 14410 CREOSOTE ROAD | SUITE A & B | GULFPORT, MS 39503 7/19/18 11:46 AM

www.gcwmultimedia.com

103

FROM

GCW AFFILIATE

PRIVATE SCHOOLS GUIDE 2020

PASCAGOULA GATEWAY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 2690 Jefferson Ave., Moss Point (228) 762-4144 www. gatewaychristianacademy.info Preschool: PK3-PK4 Grades: K-6 RESURRECTION CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY 3704 Quinn Drive, Pascagoula (228) 762-7207 www.rcseagles.com Preschool: PK3–PK4 Grades: K-6 RESURRECTION CATHOLIC MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL 520 Watts Ave., Pascagoula (228) 762-3353 www.rcseagles.com Grades: 7-12

104

January-February 2020

OCEAN SPRINGS GRACE BAPTIST ACADEMY 3707 Bienville Blvd., Ocean Springs (228) 875-2093 www.gbaos.org Grades: K4-12 ST. ALPHONSUS CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY 504 Jackson Ave., Ocean Springs (228) 875-5329 www.stal.org Preschool: PK3 – PK4 Grades: K–6 TREEHOUSE MONTESSORI CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 921 Ocean Ave., Ocean Springs (228) 990-4160 www.treehousemontessorios. com Grades: 1-8 Ages: 6-9 years; 9-12 years; 12-15 years (Montessori classrooms

are multi-age)

BILOXI CEDAR LAKE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY & PRESCHOOL 11555 Cedar Lake Road, Biloxi (228) 392-9389 www.clcalions.org Preschool: Infant – K4 Grades: K-12 NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY ELEMENTARY 1046 Beach Blvd., Biloxi 228.432.2269 www.nativitybvm.org Preschool: PK3-PK4 Grades: K-6 OUR LADY OF FATIMA 320 Jim Money Road, Biloxi (228) 388-3602 www.olfschool.org Preschool: PK2-PK4 Grades: K-6

We are Hope Academy an independent school for innovative learning

ONLY HOPE ACADEMY provides a top-tier, college-prep learning environment that’s truly independent, led by the most esteemed educators on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

ONLY HOPE ACADEMY has a new campus in a 450+ acre master-planned community, giving students access to natural and man-made amenities that bring classroom concepts to life.

ONLY HOPE ACADEMY gives students the opportunity to spend the night in a cavern, and travel both the Mississippi Blues trail and the Boston Freedom Trail as part of their Elementary learning experience.

ONLY HOPE ACADEMY fully integrates high-impact community services projects across multiple grades and academic disciplines.

ONLY HOPE ACADEMY nurtures confident public speakers and performers through participation in monthly Student Showcases and an unmatched performing arts program.

MIDDLE SCHOOL OPENING 2019-2020 — SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE —

Follow us on Facebook for a glimpse of our unique learning environment. Better, come see it for yourself.

Call 228.539.1234 or email info@hopeacademyfg.org 1234 Alphabet Road in Gulfport ▪ www.HopeAcademyFG.org

fully accredited by the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools www.gcwmultimedia.com

105

D’IBERVILLE SACRED HEART CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 10482 Lemoyne Blvd., D'Iberville (228) 392-4180 www.shceschool.com Preschool: PK2-PK4 Grades: K-6

GULFPORT CHRISTIAN COLLEGIATE ACADEMY 12200 Dedeaux Road, Gulfport (228) 832-4585 www.ccagulfport.com Preschool: Infant (beginning at 6 weeks of age) – PK4 Grades: K-12 HOPE ACADEMY 1234 Alphabet Road, Gulfport (228) 539-1234 www.hopeacademyfg.org Preschool: PK2-PK4 Grades: K-8

ST. JAMES CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 603 West Ave., Gulfport (228) 896-6631 www.stjamesgulfport.com Preschool: PK3-PK4 Grades: K-6

BAY ST. LOUIS

ST. PATRICK CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL 18300 St. Patrick Road, Biloxi (228) 702-0500 www.stpatrickhighschool.net Grades: 7-12

LONG BEACH COAST EPISCOPAL SCHOOL 5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach (228) 452-9442 www.coastepiscopalschool.org Preschool: 18 months-PK4 Grades: K-8 ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY 4321 Espy Ave., Long Beach (228) 222-6000

SAVE $

www.svdpcatholicschool.org Preschool: PK2-PK4 Grades: K-6

100*

WHENYOU YOUCALL CALL WHEN BEFORE 2/29/20* BEFORE 11/30/19*

Holy Trinity Catholic Elementary School 301 S. 2nd St., Bay St Louis (228) 467-5158 www.holytrinitycatholic.net Preschool: PK2-PK4 Grades: K-6

OUR LADY ACADEMY

222 S. Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis (228) 467-7048 www.ourladyacademy.com Grades: 7-12 ST. STANISLAUS COLLEGE 304 S. Beach Blvd., Bay St Louis (228) 467-9057 www.ststan.com Grades: 7-12

FOR BETTER GRADES AND TEST SCORES GET HELP NOW! Make the next report card the best yet! If your child is having trouble keeping up in school or you think they need to sharpen their study skills, Huntington can help your student get on track right now. Since 1977, Huntington has helped students K-12 improve their grades, test scores, and confidence.

OUR PROGRAM FOR SUCCESS INCLUDES

GET THE BEST REPORT CARD EVER

• • •

Thorough academic evaluations Proven programs tailored to each student’s needs Individualized instruction from highly certified teachers

TUTORING Reading - Writing - Math - Study Skills Spelling - Vocabulary - Phonics Algebra - Geometry - Trigonometry Pre-Calculus - Calculus Earth Science - Biology - Chemistry - Physics TEST PREP SAT - PSAT/NMSQT - ACT - Advanced Placement (AP) State Tests - GED - ASVAB

Personalized Attention. Proven Results.

$100 OFF

AN ACADEMIC EVALUATION!* OFFER EXPIRES 11/30/19 OFFER EXPIRES 2/29/20

106

January-February 2020

Gulfport 8950 Lorraine Rd. Ste. E Gulfport, MS 39503 228-832-1226

1.800.CAN.LEARN

www.HuntingtonHelps.com

©2015 Huntington Mark, LLC. Independently Owned and Operated. SAT and Advanced Placement (AP) are registered trademarks of the College Board.

PSAT/NMSQT is a registered trademark of the College Board and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation. ACT is a registered trademark of ACT, Inc. None of these entities endorses or was involved in the production of the program.*Offer valid for Academic Evaluation, new students only. Not valid with any other offer.

HLC1898.1

WHERE ELSE?

Coast EpisCopal sChool Fostering a Lifelong Love of Learning Since 1950

Where else is inspiring every child “to imagine and create a better world” the daily curriculum?

Where else does a 24-acre school property allow teachers of toddlers through middle school to extend their classrooms and incorporate nature into their science, social studies, math, art, and writing curriculums?

Where else is a communitymaking retreat in the fall and a personal best-making hike on the Appalachian Trail each spring a part of your schoolwork?

Where else do students have daily access to an active art gallery exhibiting works from regionally and nationally renowned artists to enhance an extensive visual arts program?

Where else are students encouraged to be critical thinkers and problem solvers in a handson science lab and interactive makerspace?

Where else do students study Mississippi, American, and World history and current events in a thematic, multidisciplinary curriculum focused on collaborative, constructionist problem- and project-based learning?

7TH & 8TH

GRADES NOW AVAILABLE

ALL SCHOOL OPEN HOUS E

To d d le r, P re sc h o o l, K -8 th G rad es

JANUARY 31 7:30-10:30 AM

MARCH 31

12:00-3:00 PM

SEE IT FOR YOURSELF Call us, Stop by, or Visit us online

• 18 months - 3 years • Preschool: 3-5 years • K - 8th Grades • After-School Enrichment

5065 Espy Ave., Long Beach 228.452.9442 • admissions@myces.org www.gcwmultimedia.com 107 www.CoastEpiscopalSchool.org

New preschool opening January 6, 2020!

Accepting newborns to age 5 Afterschool program serving West Wortham Elementary and Saucier Elementary.

Register online at www.LittlePeoplesChristianAcademy.com or in person.

Call 228-539-8200 for more information.

GULF COAST EMERGENCY VETERINARY HOSPITAL AND BEACH VIEW VETERINARY HOSPITAL ALL THE VETERINARY SERVICES YOUR PET NEEDS

We are your LOCAL, CERTIFIED AUTOMOTIVE and MARINE CONDITIONING PROFESSIONALS

QUICK, COURTEOUS, PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AT YOUR LOCATION. 108

January-February 2020

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Computed Tomography (CT) imaging Full in-house laboratory Companion Therapeutic Laser Ultrasound Blood and Plasma bank on-site Antivenin for Poisonous Snake Bites Oxygen and Therapeutic Chambers Specialized Services like taking blood and eye pressures Digital Radiography Consultation abilities with specialists Fear Free Multiple specialized medical wards On-site power and oxygen generators

We are also currently underway constructing an additional building to house a cremation unit and an expanded blood bank.

Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital 8144 E. Oaklawn Rd. | Biloxi, MS 39532 (228) 392-7474 | gulfcoastveter.com Beach View Veterinary Hospital 132 Porter Ave. | Biloxi, MS 39530 (228) 436-6497 | beachviewveterinaryhospital.com

CHANGE FOR changed minds

Dental C.A. “Buddy” Brice D.D.S., P.A. Jason S. Rector, D.M.D. Austin J. McMurphy, D.M.D.

Pediatric Dentists Dedicated To The Oral Health Of Infants, Children, Teens And Children With Special Needs BILOXI OFFICE

(228) 374-8175 1070 Judge Sekul Ave. Biloxi, MS 39530

OCEAN SPRINGS OFFICE

(228) 215-3100

1268 Ocean Springs Rd. Ocean Springs, MS 39564

The Dawg House of Biloxi Daycare - Boarding - Grooming

Did you know that SEVEN OUT OF TEN women that have a free ultrasound typically change their mind about following through with an abortion?

Help us help them... Partner with us!

IT’S EASY! GRAB A BABY BOTTLE & FILL IT UP WITH CHANGE Your donation will help us to provide free pregnancy testing, verification, ultrasound, and peer counseling to a woman who’s not sure what she should do.

WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER 191 Hopkins Blvd. | Downtown Biloxi

Pregnancy Solutions

228-206-5119

9155 Lorraine Road | Gulfport, MS 39503

Hours MONDAY - FRIDAY 7am-7pm SATURDAY 9am-11am & 5pm - 7pm | SUNDAY 6pm - 7pm

www.wrcgulfportorg.org/donate

228.897.8958 www.gcwmultimedia.com

109

COAST MARKETPLACE SERVICES • EVENTS • PRODUCTS • GROUPS

SERVICES

Antiques Flowers Gifts Books and More!

HOME TO OVER 25 LOCAL ARTISTS

 Located at

Visit

213 MAIN STREET

GALLERY 220 MAIN

in Old Town Bay St. Louis

and see why we’re the favorite among the locals.

228.364.3091

Offering art in all mediums from Fine to Eclectic.

shop@thefrenchpotager.com

Located on the corner of 220 Main and Toulmé Old Town Bay St. Louis, MS 2 blocks North of the Beach

www.thefrenchpotager.com

228-466-6347

IICRC Certified Technician Good Shepherd Christian Academy provides quality education partnered

Good Shepherd Academy provides quality with a ChristianChristian environment to students in the Gulfport, MS area.

We usepartnered the “Beginnings” andenvironment computer programs education with curriculum a Christian to enhance preparation forMS kindergarten. to students in the Gulfport, area.

Enroll your child today in the safe, healthy, cheerful environment of our school.

Our loving and professional staff works with every child We use the “Beginnings” curriculum and computer in a caring, positive, and encouraging manner.

• • • •

programs to enhance preparation for kindergarten.

Chapel each morning 80 48th St. • Gulfport, MS 39507 Christian environment Hours of Business: Low child/ teacher Enroll your ratio child today in the safe, Mon. healthy, cheerful thru Fri. 6:30 AM to 5:45 PM Child care from 6 weeks to completion of Pre K

environment of our school. Our loving and professional staff works with every child in a caring, positive, and encouraging manner.

Chapel Each Morning Christian Environment Low Child/Teacher Ratio Child Care for 6 Weeks to Completion of Pre K

80 48th Street • Gulfport, MS 39507 Hours of business: Mon. thru Fri. 6:30 AM to 5:45 PM

WE PROVIDE CLEAN AND MODERN, READY-TO-GO CAMPERS

Camper trailer rentals come with camper delivery and set up service WE DELIVER ANYWHERE FROM COVINGTON, LOUISIANA TO DESTIN, FLORIDA! Enjoy the excitement of camping without the headache of camper ownership.

Retail shop for all your camping needs 10381 Hwy 603 | Suite A | Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520 Email: info@gulfcoastcampers.com | 228-463-3200 Visit our website: www. gulfcoastcampers.com

Your oriental rug cleaning specialist!

The New Standard of Clean on the Gulf Coast!

PHILIP HOLLINGSWORTH OWNER/OPERATOR

228.209.2354 | floorlord.com floorlord.ms@gmail.com

FOR MORE INFO: Email customerservice@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com or Call 228.539-2422 110

January-February 2020

success

GOOD NEIGHBOR

Dina Rosetti A driving force behind some of the community’s most dynamic organizations, Dina Rosetti has found her ‘giving place’ in Bay St. Louis

STORY BY DENISE JACOBS | BSLSHOOFLY.COM

Dina Rosetti worked behind the scenes for months to help make the fifth annual Pirate Day in the Bay the best yet. ​She’s treasurer of the Mystic Krewe of the Seahorse, which produced the weekend extravaganza celebrating the Coast’s fascination with all things pirate.

According to fellow krewe member and

John and Dina Rosetti

longtime friend Ginny Cabell, “Dina sees every social event, business dealing, or chance meeting as an opportunity to give back — and she encourages others to find their giving place in the community in a way they can enjoy themselves while making the world a little better.”

That “giving place” has been a theme in Rosetti’s life. One of those lucky young women who know exactly what they want out of life, Rosetti decided upon graduation from the University of Southern Mississippi (Hattiesburg) in 1990 to live a life that would make a difference.

The Princess Dress Shoppe was the first job Rosetti worked after returning to Bay St. Louis. She later moved on to the insurance industry and worked for two local agencies. Now, she and her husband, John, own and operate Rosetti’s Liquor

Rosetti served as the second woman Bay-Waveland commodore.

Photograph by Ann Madden

Barrel on Highway 90.

Rosetti’s “volunteer career” track also has evolved over time. When she came back after college, she volunteered with the Hancock County Exchange Club.

During the same period, she was on the advisory board for the Family Child Center for the Prevention of Child Abuse.

In the mid 90s, Rosetti’s volunteerism got personal when Scott Demboski, her best friend’s husband, died in a train accident. Seeking to memorialize Demboski, she dedicated herself to creating what is now known as the Bay Area Youth Soccerplex (then christened the Scott Demboski Memorial Soccerplex on Longfellow Drive). If she wasn’t busy securing the grounds, raising money or buying equipment, she was bringing lunch to the trustees clearing the property.

Through the years, Rosetti became a key member of the Bay-Waveland Yacht Club. She remembers the club as a haven for her family after Katrina — “a place that felt like home.” It was there her son, Luke, developed the sailing skills he needed to win high school national championships.

In 2017, Rosetti became the venerable club’s second female commodore. She had no manager or assistant manager, so she was just as likely to be found bussing tables as making executive decisions.

Bay resident and club member Liz Maio remembers passing the yacht club after a serious storm and finding Rosetti clearing debris from the club grounds.

“As commodore, Dina could have tasked any number of people with the job,” Maio says. “Yet there she was – the first one on the job.”

Krewes and clubs have played a large role in Rosetti’s life. While the Mystic

Krewe of the Seahorse is front and center now, Rosetti has been a member of the Krewe of Nereids for 26 years and was an officer for 21. While Rosetti is no longer a casting member, the parking lot of Rosetti’s Liquor Barrel is ground zero for one of the biggest Nereids’ pre-parade parties in town.

Rosetti’s business is as active as its owner. In early May, Rosetti’s Liquor Barrel organized Bourbon on the Bay, its second benefit for the Starfish Café’s experiential education program. The business has also sponsored benefits to help allay the expenses of individuals in need of hospitalizations, etc.

Besides bettering and boosting the Bay/Waveland community, Rosetti has found volunteering a great way to meet new people or, alternatively, introduce new people to the community. She credits her involvement with the Mystic Krewe of the Seahorse with friendships she’s established with transplants from parts far and wide, and she loves sharing her knowledge of Mardi Gras and the Bay/ Waveland festival scene with newbies.

John is president of Mystic Krewe of the Seahorse. As the Krewe’s biggest fundraiser, Pirate Day garnered well over $10,000 in revenue last year, all of which was returned to the local community via various nonprofits.

The krewe also supports local business throughout the year. Counting just a handful of members six years ago, the krewe now draws anywhere from 70-125 of its 300 members to its monthly meetings at various local business.

As someone who has served in many aspects of the volunteer spectrum, Rosetti has found that even the seemingly smallest efforts have big consequences.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

111

HOW I BUILT MY BUSINESS JACKED UP COFFEE BAR PERKS UP DOWNTOWN BILOXI I have always looked at entrepreneurship as a goal for my career. I graduated from The University of Southern Mississippi with a bachelor’s in business administration with an emphasis on entrepreneurship. I’ve learned my drive from the absolute best entrepreneur: my dad, Tommy Newman. One of the most valuable lessons I learned from my dad was that everyone has an opinion, and it’s great to get advice, but always go with what you think is best — as it is your shop and your vision.

I knew whatever I wanted to invest in would have to be sustainable for the area, as well as competitive with big box stores. What could be better than a coffee bar in an area that needed to be revitalized? The only problem was I had never worked in a coffee shop before and had no clue how scientific it all is, but I made it a point to learn. I did know that I wanted a strong and true coffee and barista experience that was not being provided on the Gulf Coast. French Truck coffee from New Orleans was an absolute perfect fit for my vision.

I am a firm believer all things happen for a reason. Everything

112

January-February 2020

seemed to fall into place for me with this business, and it was just up to me to do my part to make it work.

Owning my own small business has been no easy task. It’s a new adventure every single day. To be successful, you basically are married to your business. I also am dedicated to being a public servant. Balancing my time and finding employees that I can trust and rely on has been vital.

I love my shop. I have put my all into ensuring we serve the best product, have engaging customer service and offer an enjoyable environment at all times.

My dream is to expand locations to further serve the Mississippi Gulf Coast that I love. There is nothing more satisfying than seeing smiles from happy customers with whipped cream all over their faces.

Newman is a Biloxi councilwoman and owner/operator of Jacked Up Coffee Bar, located at 999 Howard Ave., Biloxi.

Jacked Up can be reached at (228) 207-5361.

Dissatisfied with your current phone provider?

• AFFORDABLE PHONE SERVICE • GREAT LOOKING WEBSITES The Hancock Chamber Business Women’s Leadership Roundtable was founded in 2006 to offer professional women in Hancock County opportunities for networking and professional development. Under the direction of the Hancock Chamber, the group hosts quarterly meetings providing both personal enrichment and ideas for business development. All women in business are welcome, including newcomers.

• PROFESSIONAL EMAIL ADDRESSES • NO CONTRACT EVER

Call for a FREE consultation

(228) 248-0700

info@trunkmasters.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

113

Face of Success

MARIDEE MALLETTE started going down. Now the amount of animals adopted has doubled. I give the credit to teamwork.

HOW DO YOU DEFINE SUCCESS? Success to me has several parts. Of course, finding forever homes for homeless pets is always first and foremost, and that's why I'm here, but the community involvement also has grown over the years — and that's what we need. I see more and more people joining us in the fight. The support (that comes) from volunteers, fosters, rescues, donations, adoption events and … the local (media) just makes us more successful.

WHAT IS SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON'T ABOUT YOU? Most people might not know that my brother is Lee Bond, CEO of Singing River Hospital System. He is a hero to me. Ever since we were kids, he always cared about people, and now his passion is helping human lives. I think that's pretty cool because I help animal lives, and we both have a passion that means something to us.

Maridee Bond Mallette was raised on a farm, and her parents owned a riding stable while she was growing up. She worked in the gaming industry for 15 years, but her heart always pulled her toward helping animals. Now the adoption coordinator at Jackson County Animal Shelter, Mallette is a powerful force advocating for furry friends in need.

WHAT ARE THE MOMENTS THAT MAKE YOUR WORK WORTHWHILE? I never knew how hard it would be working at the shelter.

When I first started out, it wasn't the cleaning that was the hardest; it was … having to euthanize animals that I couldn't understand. I realized about two months in that I had to do something. I knew something had to change, and that's when I started posting animals all over Facebook and begging people to help.

At first, I didn't think that I would make it here, but then that's when it became worthwhile because more animals’ lives started being saved and the euthanasia numbers 114

January-February 2020

WHERE DOES YOUR PASSION FOR YOUR WORK COME FROM? I didn't realize when I started at the shelter how sad it would be — the amount of animals coming in surrendered, stray, abandoned, abused and neglected. So I started posting more and more animals, telling everyone I knew, building up my Facebook friends and starting new pages like the Jackson County Animal Shelter business page. Now we have over 17,000 followers. Finally, after almost three years of being caretaker, my passion got me promoted to adoption coordinator.

My work is important to me because I believe animals deserve a chance at a wonderful life, not to be ignored or pushed aside. You've heard the saying "It's just a dog" or "It's just a cat." That's not true at all. Animals have a heart and soul and feel things just like we do. That's why I keep fighting for them.

WHAT ELSE DO YOU WANT READERS TO KNOW ABOUT YOURSELF OR YOUR WORK? My job is a rollercoaster ride every day, and I've seen it all here at the shelter. I've seen horrible cruelty. I've seen death.

I've seen joy when an an animal is reclaimed and happiness when a pet gets a new home. I love my job and wouldn't trade

it for the world, but some days you don't know if you can take another minute of seeing the animals come in that no one wants; then you have to snap out of it and remember what it's all about. It's about the animals. So you push through another day, and when you see a scared dog or senior dog get adopted because you tried, it's the most rewarding feeling.

WANT TO HELP? The Jackson County Animal Shelter is located at 4400 Audobon Lane, Gautier, and can be reached at (228) 497-6350.

Information about volunteering, donating, adopting and more is available at www.co.jackson. ms.us/165/Pet-Adoptions.

Adoptions carry a $50 fee, which includes a free health exam, initial vaccination, preventative worming and spaying or neutering (age dependent).

Adoptable animals are featured on the shelter’s website and at www.facebook.com/ AdoptableAnimalsofJCAS

WE TAKE OUR WORK

What’s Happening Photo credit: Albert J. Henrion, Jr. - AJH Photography with YOUR Chamber Bay Connects Thursday, January 16, 2020 @ 5:30 PM Beauvoir, Jefferson Davis Home & Presidential Library Ribbon Cutting Wednesday, January 22, 2020 @ 11 AM Sparklight, Biloxi State of the City Address Luncheon Thursday, January 30, 2020 Beau Rivage Resort & Casino The Original Krewe of Barkloxi's 4th Annual PAW-rade Sunday, February 16, 2020 - Registration @ Noon Biloxi Town Green COME BY AND SEE US!

by and seeHall us! | (228) 435-6149 Biloxi Visitors Center | Come 2nd Floor/East Biloxi Visitors Center -- 2nd Floor/East Hall info@biloxibayareachamber.org (228) 435-6149 www.biloxibayareachamber.org info@biloxibayareachamber.org www.biloxibayareachamber.org facebook.com/biloxibayareachamber facebook.com/biloxibayareachamber

SERIOUSLY

AND WITH MUCH PRIDE. Check out our portfolio for a glimpse into the quality of our work.

CUSTOMER SERVICE IS OUR SERVICES: OUR TOP PRIORITY.

▪ Landscape Installation/ Maintenance ▪ Irrigation/Sprinkler Systems/Water Line ▪ Civil Engineering ▪ Retaining Walls ▪ Erosion Control/Riprap ▪ Hydro seeding

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Post Construction Cleaning Site Excavation Backfill Grading Concrete Classroom Cleaning Cafeteria Cleaning Office & Restroom Services Day Porter Services

▪ Full-Service Night ▪ Exterior & Interior Window Washing ▪ Pressure Washing ▪ Carpet Cleaning ▪ Floor Cleaning/Floor Care/Wood Floors ▪ Strip and Finish

MANAGERIAL CONSTRUCTION LANDSCAPE & IRRIGATION CALL EMILY SMITH TODAY

228-236-8565

CALL EMILY TODAY 228-206-7842

www.smithcontracting.us www.smithcontracting.us

www.gcwmultimedia.com

115

money

How's your

FINANCIAL HEALTH?

BY TINA PERKINS

When was the last time you devoted serious time and energy to improving your financial standing? There’s no time like the present.

You’ve heard the clichés before. Spend less than you make.

Pay yourself first. Pay off your debt. Live below your means.

Create an emergency fund.

Invest for retirement. Use the power of compounding interest.

Start a business. Create a budget and stick to it. Educate yourself. Believe me, these aren’t just well-worn sayings; they are proven tactics that work. The more of them you use, the better and more quickly your financial position will improve.

Another, often overlooked aspect of your financial health can have great payoffs if used properly. I’m speaking about tax laws. Nearly everything you do has a tax component. So while you can’t escape taxes entirely, you certainly can minimize your tax burden by using efficient strategies. I often refer to it as maximizing your after-taxed dollars and increasing your net worth.

It starts with determining your financial position and knowing your marginal tax bracket. Your financial position is calculated by a formula: assets minus liabilities equals net worth. If net worth is positive, you have equity. If net worth is negative, you are upside down. Your marginal tax bracket is the highest tax rate you pay on your income. See your taxable income on your most recently completed tax return to determine your marginal tax rate. Tax savings or added tax on your incremental income are calculated using this rate (until you reach the next tax bracket).

Rather than making and spending money all year, then figuring your income tax situation after the year ends — hoping you somehow get a refund or won’t have significant taxes due — plan your tax outcome, and then go do the work. This isn’t crazy talk; it’s knowing what gets taxed, how it’s taxed and when it’s taxed.

It’s the difference between reactive tax preparation and proactive tax planning.

“Your financial position is caluculated by a formula: assets minus liabilities equals net worth.”

116

January-February 2020

Since you have an annual obligation to determine and pay your taxes, why not get in front of your tax situation and take a proactive approach? You should find this approach is more rewarding and satisfying because you are controlling your financial health. Much like your physical and mental wellbeing are predicated on your continual devotion to good eating and exercising, financial well-being is predicated on continual good financial behaviors.

Please note that these tips are intended to be helpful and informative, but they do not replace professional financial advice.

You should consult a tax professional for your individual situation because your unique tax position will have different results. For more information, call Tina Perkins, CPA, at (228) 392-2991 or see her at Tina Perkins, CPA, P.A., 4048 Popps Ferry Road, D’Iberville.

Consultation is by appointment only.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE TAX CODE

TINA PERKINS

CPA, PA

TINA PERKINS

CPA, PA

Our Strength.

Our Strength.

Your Numbers.

Your Numbers.

Protecting Earnings for Businesses Individuals Protectingand Earnings for Businesses and Individuals

Call today to schedule an evaluation.

Call today to schedule an evaluation.

The tax code is full of opportunities.

Some have potentially large payoffs, and here are some examples: • Convert IRA into Roth IRA for taxfree distributions and to remove yourself from the annual required minimum distributions.

• Start a small business and change post-tax expenses into pre-tax deductions.

• Change your business structure to improve the way it’s taxed.

• Bifurcate your business into different income streams if you are a specified service trade or business to qualify for the 199A 20 percent business deduction.

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

TWPerkins@aol.com

4048 Popps Ferry Rd. D’Iberville, MS TWPerkins@aol.com 4048 Popps Ferry Rd. D’Iberville, MS

TINA PERKINS CPA, PA TINA PERKINS

228.392.2991 228.392.2991

CPA, PA

www.gcwmultimedia.com

117

“IF”

What

The unexpected happens…

You have a stroke or dementia…

Your child has special needs…

You have the death of a loved one…

You have an unexpected injury…

YOU HAVE QUESTIONS? WE CAN HELP.

KATHY BROWN VAN ZUTPHEN COASTWIDE LAW, LLC

office@coastwidelaw.com

428 Courthouse Road, Suite A | Gulfport MS 39507 Phone (228) 357-5227 | Fax (888) 486-3446 4603 South Carrollton Ave., Suite E New Orleans, LA 70119 Phone (504) 264-5899 | Fax (888) 486-3446

Covering Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana 118

January-February 2020

longevity

MAKING THE MOST OF

In the 20th century, 30 years were added to average life expectancy. According to an article by Laura L. Carstensen, a professor of psychology and director

BY KATHY of the Stanford Center on BROWN VAN ZUTPHEN Longevity, instead of using these extra 30 years to improve our quality of life, we just tacked them on at the end to extend “old age.” It seems beneficial, however, to “redesign” life so that we can make good use of that extra time.

According to U. S Census Bureau figures from 2010, more than 68.7 million Americans are over the age of 60, with 5.8 million over age 85 and 1.9 million over age 90.

Many families now include four or five living generations.

So how do you reconfigure your life to make the best use of this increased longevity?

BUILD IN LONG-TERM FLEXIBILITY

Today, many workers say that work-life balance is more important than salary. So flexibility, which allows someone to interweave time for leisure, work, education, and family, increases quality of life.

POSTPONE RETIREMENT

Retirements that span four decades seem unattainable for most people. By postponing retirement, an individual can extend “middle age” longer, not just add more time to the retirement years at the end of life. Although you may think you don’t want to work longer, remember that with flexibility, we can improve our quality of life with shorter work weeks, adjustable scheduling and perhaps “breaks” in employment.

You may not be able to change many of life’s problems … but you can change

How You Face Them

KEEP PHYSICALLY FIT

One in three adults has high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high body mass index numbers and high cholesterol. All these indicators are signs of failing health, which can be improved by increased physical fitness.

Maintaining physical fitness from the beginning to end of life is paramount to increasing your enjoyment of the extra years. For adults and children alike, getting outside for sports and other activities, reducing the time we sit and moving our bodies more will greatly improve our health and our lives in general.

NEVER STOP LEARNING

Technology is changing rapidly. Therefore, an education that ends in your early 20s is ill suited for longer working lives or keeping up-to-date on new technology and information. Even if you don’t continue your formal education, always read and stay abreast of new information — and take advantage of the many learning opportunities available through podcasts or free seminars.

EVERYONE CONTRIBUTES

Families benefit when each generation pitches in to help.

Most families have learned to share responsibilities, such as a grandmother watching the children while their mother works. Other generations can benefit the family as well, including children, teens and young adults. Household responsibilities — everything from lawn maintenance to paying certain bills — should be spread among all generations to maximize the benefit to the whole family.

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 her website to learn more: www.al-mscoastallaw.com. You also can reach her at her office: (228) 357-5227.

Let’s talk about

planning for the unexpected.

KATHY P. ROGERS, Life Planner kathy@marstonrogers.com | cell: 228.697.0786 UNDERSTAND YOUR OPTIONS:

Business Exit Strategy | College planning Retirement Planning | Life Insurance | Business Protection

www.marstonrogers.com Office: (228) 206-5902 | Fax: (228) 206-0150 15431 O’Neal Rd. Ste B | Gulfport, MS 39503 www.gcwmultimedia.com

119

REDUCE YOUR RISK

Tips to protect your business We make saving easy.

Meet our team!

Your business is your heart and soul. As you grow and improve your operation, you should think about the best protection for surprises you can’t control. A business faces many risks that

BY ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE may keep you from reaching your goals. Competition, the economy, legal exposure, compliance requirements and weather catastrophes can impact your company in addition to your operational risks.

As you determine how to best protect your business, consider the following tips:

1 Tammy Garfield

Tracy Arnold

Denise Russell

Work to understand the risks you may face in your specific industry for property, business equipment, liability and your staff. Once you understand your danger areas, you can make informed decisions about mitigating them and protecting your growing business.

2 Angelyn Treutel Zeringue CPA, President

Local professional agents!

Biloxi 2505 Pass Road 228-385-1177

Bay St. Louis 412 Hwy 90

228-466-4498

Fax 888-415-8922

www.southgroupgulfcoast.com 120

January-February 2020

ASSESS RISKS

IDENTIFY STRATEGIES

Develop plans to avoid risk, including strategies for improving safety, reducing waste, fortifying your property and purchasing good insurance that will protect you from exposures you can’t avoid. You also may decide to retain some of the risk through the use of higher deductibles or self-insurance. Be sure you have a fund set aside to cover the higher deductibles.

3

STRIVE TO KEEP COSTS LOW

By avoiding excessive claims and continuing to implement stronger risk management strategies, your business will benefit from being more attractive to the insurance industry as they invest in you. This leads to more options on your coverages and lower rates. Most insurance carriers also will provide inspection and risk-

A different kind of CPA

assessment services that will keep you better protected.

Some insurance increases are inevitable due to the global nature of the pricing, but by keeping your business the best it can be, you always will benefit from the best available pricing.

4

REVIEW ANNUALLY

As you grow your business, your risk exposure changes.

You may have increased assets, inventory and staff. Be sure to adjust your risk management plan and your insurance coverages accordingly. Always look to the future, and plan your exit strategy with a solid perpetuation plan, ensuring all of your hard work won’t be lost when you’re ready to retire.

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

START GETTING ANSWERS TO YOUR FINANCIAL QUESTIONS 14 YEARS IN PUBLIC ACCOUNTING 5 YEARS IN CORPORATE COMPLIANCE

EXPERIENCE IN ALL 50 STATES

Denise Howell

Attests • Audits • Advisory • Accounting • Taxes NOW OFFERING CERTIFIED PAYROLL SERVICES

Call 228.396.2996

15506 Lemoyne Blvd., Ste D | Biloxi, MS 39532 Howell CPA • PA is owned and operated by Denise Howell, CPA. Howell is licensed in Louisiana and Mississippi and is a member of the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants).

Looking for a new home, contact Tammy and let her help you pre-qualify today!

Visit Tammy 1830 Popps Ferry Rd, Biloxi, MS 39532

Tammy Warren

Assistant Vice President Mortgage Loan Officer NMLS# 546649

Office: 228.594.6913 Cell: 228.860.3300 Fax: 228.594.6916 twarren@tcbphila.com

www.thecitizensbankphila.com

www.gcwmultimedia.com

121

THINKING DIFFERENTLY ABOUT

DEBT

At the start of the new year, many people made New Year’s resolutions — promises to yourself or others to enact a change. Unfortunately, the enthusiasm for those resolutions often wanes as the hard work required to

BY KATHY ROGERS honor them becomes a reality. Did you make a New Year’s resolution? Perhaps you made one to get your finances in order or get out of debt — commendable resolutions that require work and self-discipline.

People have lots of ideas about debt; some believe there can be good debt and bad debt. Others believe we should avoid debt altogether. No matter how many talking heads say you should never carry any debt, except possibly a home loan that you pay off quickly, debt is an unavoidable fact of life for most of us.

Instead of looking at debt as “good” or “bad” perhaps we should classify it as “wise” or “unwise.” How about contemplating how the debt you are about to incur will affect your life? Will accepting debt to redecorate your home or buy a new car, sparkly piece of jewelry or designer clothes really make your life better — or will it make it more stressful when the bill comes due?

Personally, I consider purchasing something on credit, knowing I cannot pay the bill in full when it comes due, to be unwise debt. I also consider purchasing something (furniture, new car, bigger home, etc.) on an installment plan, knowing the additional payment will cause undue strain on my budget or family, to be unwise debt. Before purchasing something you think you must have, I recommend you put yourself in timeout (sit in that corner and think about what you are about to do); look clearly at your finances, do an honest evaluation and decide whether it’s worth the cost.

Maybe you already have made unwise debt choices, and now you are living with the consequences. Here are a few suggestions to help you: • Take the time to gather the balance, payment amount and interest rate on every debt you have. Write it down on a piece of paper, create a spreadsheet or use whatever method works for you so the information is in a format you can review. Sort the debt by interest rate, then by outstanding balance. Add a column on your worksheet or paper for all your monthly income and expenses, including your installment and credit card payments.

• Admit you need help. Recognize that if you could get control of your debt on your own, you already would have

122

January-February 2020

“Instead of looking at debt as 'good' or 'bad,' we should classify it as 'wise' or 'unwise.' " done so. Seek financial council from someone who is good with finances, like your CPA, financial advisor, banker, pastor, family member or mentor with financial wisdom. Do not ask for help or council from someone who is in a financial crisis themselves; a drowning person can’t help someone else stay afloat. Tell your trusted advisor the full story (he or she can’t offer sound council otherwise), and allow this person to help you create a plan to help you work your way out.

• Once you have a plan for reducing or eliminating your debt, begin to work your plan. Be accountable and meet with your advisor regularly to evaluate your situation.

I recently met with a client, discussing her situation and her ideas for paying down her debt and working on her retirement savings. As we evaluated her situation, we helped her see something that she’d been unable to see on her own — a different way forward that allowed her to work toward her goals in a way that also provided flexibility in case of unforeseen circumstances.

I could list many general ways to reduce and manage your debt. However, your situation, though similar to others, is not the same. Just as people have similarities and differences, so do financial situations. General information is just that, generally accepted methods; they may work for you, or they may not.

However, through relationships with people you can trust, you can receive help tailored to your specific needs in a format that can work for you.

I encourage you to seek out help from a trusted source today.

Rogers is the vice president of Marston Rogers Group, a life planner and financial consultant.

Reach her at (228) 206-5902 or at kathy@marstonrogers.com.

Be

good bad or

food & fun

at

Blue Dog Bistro

BY CHRIS DEARMAN

With outstanding cuisine and a terrific ambiance, Blue Dog Bistro is the perfect place to find healthy, highquality and made-from-scratch food that will have you coming back for more.

Opening last September, the Blue Dog Bistro breakfast and brunch concept is the brainchild of Joshua Lord and his wife, Amber, who were inspired by their passion for fresh food and their love of the dog breed blue Staffordshire terrier. Having lost their dog, Blue Bell, to brain cancer, they chose to name the bistro after her so she could be remembered on a daily basis.

Having traveled the county and around the world trying innovative food, and inspired by the growing movement to eat healthy, they created a unique menu to help promote a healthier, cleaner lifestyle.

“We are the first keto-, paleo-, vegan- and gluten-free friendly restaurant on the Mississippi Gulf Coast,” Josh said. “We do a lot of different, innovative food, especially for the direction that eating out is going with dietary needs and the special things people are asking for.”

The menu is divided into “good dog” and “bad dog” offerings to tempt your taste buds. “Good dog” consists of the healthier options, and “bad dog” is for indulging.

Small plates are available that are a combination of both.

Everything is made to order and use nothing but fresh, local ingredients.

“I’ve brought some of the best things I’ve had, and some cool things people may not have heard of,” Josh said of being inspired by his travels. “This food is what you may find on the West Coast if you go out there right now, but you won’t see it here.”

One of the unique items I had on my visit was the ricotta and lavash, consisting of a house-made mixture of ricotta cheese and cream, drizzled with whipped honey then sprinkled with fresh-ground peppercorn and pink Himalayan salt. You use the lavash, a thin, Middle Eastern sweet bread that is made into chocolate and vanilla wafers, to scoop and eat the delightful treat.

If you want to indulge, order a cinnamon roll skillet — but be sure to bring your appetite. Served hot out of the oven on a castiron skillet, it will be hard to finish just one of the three large, icing-topped pastries.

The fruit and yogurt bowl found on the good dog side of the breakfast menu was great as well. Vanilla Greek yogurt comes

"If you want to indulge, order a cinnamon roll skillet — but be sure to bring your appetite." www.gcwmultimedia.com

123

with with strawberries, blueberries, banana and house-made granola, topped with a local honey called Gautier Gold. This gluten-free option would be a fantastic way to start your day.

Blue Dog’s lunch menu also offers numerous items sure to please. On the good dog side, you will find lettuce leaf tacos with blackened Gulf shrimp, a vegan black bean burger and yellowfin tuna and avocado stack to name a few. I thoroughly enjoyed the grilled Portabella steaks, which came with three large mushrooms seasoned and spiced to have the flavor of beef, topped with an avocado chimichurri cauliflower mash and finished with a balsamic reduction. The popular vegan dish is gluten free and keto friendly.

I also tried the fried green tomato stack, a modern twist on fried green tomatoes that looks just as good as it tastes. Made with a Boursin cheese spread and red pepper coulis, the pretty dish may inspire you to post a picture to social media.

“The whole concept itself has been thought out and designed for 20 years,” Josh says. “People should come to Blue Dog Bistro because we have a perfect blend of atmosphere, service, innovation, modernism and simplicity at the same time.”

Blue Dog Bistro is open Tuesday through Thursday from 7 a.m.-3 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Breakfast is served all day, and the dog-friendly patio offers outdoor seating. For an added treat, order what is considered the world’s most expensive coffee, Kopi Luwak, served tableside via a Chemex pour-over coffeemaker.

124

January-February 2020

IF YOU GO Blue Dog Bistro 1801-A Government St., Ocean Springs (228) 447-4023 www.bluedogbistro.com www.facebook.com/ bluedogbistro

MOVING?

DON’T SWEAT IT! Take the hassle out of combining your households by calling an affordable, professional moving service.

James D. Wilson, owner/op

erator

EXPERIENCED CREWS PERSONALIZED SERVICE FURNITURE PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE

PASTRIES — SANDWICHES SALADS — SOUPS COAST ROAST COFFEE CATERING AND DELIVERY OPTIONS AVAILABLE Partnered with WAITR for individual orders.

LINSEY O’KEEFE NEW OWNER

Call TODAY to schedule your move!

228.297.5676 Since 2004 LICENSED BONDED INSURED

360 Courthouse Road, Suite C | Gulfport MS 39507

www.nezatys.com | 228.897.1139

Hours: Monday - Friday, 7:00am - 4:00pm

www.mightymenmoversms.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

125

Game day eats and treats

Score a touchdown with these finger foods Whip up these healthy recipes to help you celebrate any big game:

TURKEY ROLLUPS

BY ALYSSA ASHMORE

Lay out a slice of turkey. Top it with cheese, baby spinach leaves and mustard. Roll it up.

PEANUT BUTTER FOOTBALLS

Stuff a pitted Medjool date with natural peanut butter.

Dust it with powdered sugar, or use icing across the top to make the design of football laces for a festive treat!

BANANA COOKIES

Mash two medium bananas, then gently stir in 1.5 cups of quick oats and one-third cup mini chocolate chips.

Make into cookies by rolling one tablespoon of dough for each cookie and placing on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes.

(Recipe courtesy of cleananddelicious.com)

CORN AND BEAN SALAD DIP

Mix together the following: one can whole-kernel corn (drained and rinsed), one can black beans (drained and rinsed), two large, finely chopped tomatoes, one large, finely chopped red onion, one-quarter cup minced fresh cilantro and two minced garlic cloves. In a separate bowl, whisk together two tablespoons sugar, two tablespoons white vinegar, two tablespoons canola oil, 1.5 teaspoons lime juice, one-quarter teaspoon salt, one-quarter teaspoon ground cumin and one-quarter teaspoon pepper. Pour dressing over bean and corn mixture, and stir together. Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving with baked chips. Add in a chopped avocado for even more flavor and nutrition! (Recipe from tasteofhome.com)

PEANUT BUTTER BALLS

Mix together one-half cup natural peanut butter and one-quarter cup honey. Stir in one cup rolled oats and a half cup of nonfat dry milk powder. Roll into balls and refrigerate.

126

January-February 2020

little

B LU E GUIDE

An insider's look at Coastal Mississippi LITTLE BLUE GUIDE Introduces the best shopping, dining, entertainment, accommodations and services on the Mississipipi Gulf Coast.

Carefully curated stories offer a visually stunning, informative snapshot to guide the adventuresome.

MORE INFO Sherry Moxley Seaman (706) 833-0123 | Sherry@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

LITTLEBLUEGUIDE2COAST.COM www.gcwmultimedia.com

127

AVOCADO DEVILED EGGS

Make boiled eggs. Peel them and cut them in half lengthwise, then remove the yolks and set them aside. Mash one medium avocado and two whole egg yolks. Mix in two to three teaspoons fresh lime juice, one teaspoon minced red onion, one tablespoon minced jalapeno, one tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro and salt and pepper to taste.

Gently fold in one tablespoon diced tomato. Stuff each half of the deviled eggs with avocado mixture and garnish with sprinkles of chili powder. (Recipe courtesy of skinnytaste.com)

Alyssa Ashmore of Passionate Portions Nutrition & Wellness is a registered dietitian nutritionist, author, speaker and nutrition therapist. She can be reached at alyssa@alyssaashmore. com. Visit www.alyssaashmore.com to learn more.

CHAPPY CHAPMAN PARTNER, RUM KITCHEN

STARR CHAPMAN PARTNER, RUM KITCHEN

RUM KITCHEN’S “Cook Ups” Embrace the flavors of the Caribbean Rum Islands and brings the essence of the Islands to you. A friendly relaxed atmosphere serving the freshest burgers, tacos, craft cocktails and much more.

7 - 65” screens, kid friendly, awesome customer service, free parking, daily happy hour, and monthly special events featuring our flavorful cuisine and unique, original craft cocktails.

LIKE US ON

USING #GULFCOASTWOMAN TO BE ENTERED INTO OUR GIFT CERTIFICATE GIVEAWAY.

324 Hw y 90, Waveland, MS 39576 | 228-467-9099 | w w w.rumkitchenwaveland.com 128

January-February 2020

fill your cup

SOUTH MISSISSIPPI CHILD ADVOCACY CENTER

One LOUD voice for children Nearly 700,000 children are abused in the U.S. annually.

According to Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services

BY KRYSTLE statistics from March HILLIARD 2017, 200,492 cases of child abuse or neglect were reported in the state.

Over the past year, the South Mississippi Child Advocacy Center in Gulfport has doubled the number of children we serve. The increase is a direct result of increased reporting and joint investigations between law enforcement and CPS. SMCAC, a solution of Canopy Children’s Solutions, serves child victims of abuse and neglect primarily living within George, Greene, Harrison, Jackson and Stone counties. The national CAC service model has revolutionized investigations of child abuse cases through the use of forensic interviews that allow the child to share his/her experience one time in a safe, child-friendly space. Testimony given in the child’s own words is provided to authorities to alleviate the need to retell traumatizing experiences.

The SMCAC works with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the family receives proper care, remains informed and works collaboratively

SMCAC staff Second row, from left: Daniel Dooley, lead forensic interviewer; Donna Thornhill, child and family advocate; Lisa Zimmerman, MDT facilitator; Billy Barnes, child and family advocate Front row: Sylvia Hembree, intake coordinator; Kasey King, family therapist; Krystle Hilliard, program director; Angie Flowers, child and family advocate

toward conviction. Teams includes members of SMCAC, the district attorney, law enforcement and CPS, as well as medical and mental health professionals. The MDT component is the heartbeat of SMCAC. Efforts in 2018, with the help of our MDTs, resulted in 57 convictions, 203 arrests and 113 awaiting trial. Of the 572 child victims or witnesses from last year, 368 are receiving counseling, 298 received medical examinations and 301 are receiving preventative services through programs like Canopy’s In-Circle (family preservation/reunification) and MYPAC (in-home psychiatric care).

The SMCAC connects families to service providers throughout the Gulf Coast region, including free medical evaluations to victims to collect medical evidence. It has a licensed staff therapist but also works with local mental health providers to connect victims and their families to therapeutic solutions. Staff also play an active role with the families throughout the investigation and litigation processes, and even beyond their time in court.

We offer hope to the hopeless, comfort to the comfortless and replace pain or sorrow with joy and happiness.

Hilliard is the program director of Canopy’s South Mississippi Children’s Advocacy Center.

HOW TO HELP The SMCAC is a nonprofit that relies solely on contributions and grants. Various events and fundraisers assist in efforts to provide a continuum of care free of charge. Throughout the year, SMCAC staff promote awareness and education about child abuse in hopes of helping community members recognize signs of abuse and empower children to end the cycle of maltreatment.

Learn how you can help support the SMCAC by calling (228) 8688686.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

129

DO YOU HAVE AN

enlarged An enlarged heart in the medical field is called cardiomegaly.

Cardiomegaly can be caused by diseases of the muscles and valves, as well as a many other conditions.

BY ROBIN KILLEEN But I am not talking about this type of enlarged heart here, as it pertains to the natural realm. Rather, I am talking about a heart that is spiritually enlarged by God. In Proverbs 21:2, we see that the Lord weighs our hearts.

Also, 1 Kings 8:39 says he alone knows what is in our hearts.

You see, we do not fully know our hearts. Many times, we have no idea what is in us until the Lord allows certain situations or certain people in our lives, and then the condition of our heart is revealed.

Often, our hearts distribute only little droplets of love, rationing it like there’s only so much to go around. We know that is not true; Gods love is unlimited, unfailing and unending. The problem is not with the supply of God’s love, but with the condition and constriction of our hearts.

In 2 Cor. 6:10-11, we see that the apostle Paul’s heart was enlarged toward all the believers to accept them all, but the Corinthian believers had small hearts, were immature and constricted in their innermost parts.

When we are constricted, we are narrow in our inward affections when we meet others. We also are easily offended by other opinions and those who correct or criticize us.

130

January-February 2020

HEART?

God wants to enlarge our hearts beyond the limited comforts of our own sphere of influence. When we have a spiritually enlarged heart, we can freely love people and are free of all jealousy, competition and comparison.

An enlarged heart is a heart for the world. It is a heart that beats with the passions and concerns of God Himself.

It is a heart that has been enlarged by God to reach beyond the concerns and issues that affect our own personal lives.

An enlarged heart has the capacity to love and embrace the needs of others.

We can make a difference in this tumultuous time we live in by embracing and loving everyone God puts in our path, regardless of their condition.

Lord, we ask you to enlarge our spiritual hearts, to enlarge our sphere of influence. Psalm 51:10 says, "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me."

Like King David, we want to be people after your own heart. Help us be dispensers of your love and not be critical or find fault. Help us minister life to those we meet according to the measure they are open to receive. In Jesus’s matchless name, amen.

Robin 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.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

131

L. Randy Buntyn, DMD • L. Ross Buntyn, DDS

Proudly Introducing Advanced Full-Arch Dental Implant Restorations With When it comes to dental implants, experience makes the difference.

That’s why Smile Gulf Coast is now your area’s only Hybridge Certified Dental Implant Provider. Hybridge brings advanced technology, efficiency and lasting results to patients in need of a new smile.

Trust Smile Gulf Coast − Delivering comprehensive and comfortable dental care for two generations.

Ross Buntyn, D.D.S. and “Randy” Buntyn, D.M.D.

Implant • Cosmetic • General Dentistry 1203 Government St. • Ocean Springs, MS 39564

132

Call: 228.875.3343 Email: SmileTeam@SmileGulfCoast.com January-FebruaryVisit: 2020 HybridgeGulfCoast.com