Gulf Coast Woman July-August 2018 by Gulf Coast Woman

OMAN GULF COAST

JULY-AUGUST 2018

COMPLIMENTARY

SUCCESS

Top women

Showcase

Influencers named

with

SUCCESSFUL

WO MEN TO KNOW

Sponsored by

LORI HARPER

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Michael J. Christie Michael J. Christie M.D., F.A.C.O.G. M.D., F.A.C.O.G. BOARD CERTIFIED OB/GYN

Diplomate of the American Board of OB/GYN BOARD CERTIFIED OB/GYN Diplomate of the American OB/GYN Serving the Coast for15of17years years. Serving theGulf Gulf CoastBoard for

Serving the Gulf Coast for 15 years

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Dr. Christie and his Team will take the time Dr. Christie and hishealthcare Team willneeds take the time to address your to address your healthcare needs

Michael J. Christie, MD, FACOG BOARD BOARDCERTIFIED CERTIFIED OB/GYN OB/GYN KELLY MASK, FNP-C Cynthia Kinsey, FNP-C Cynthia Kinsey, FNP-C Kelly Mask, FNP-C Cynthia Kinsey, FNP-C Kelly Mask, FNP-C Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Board Certified Nurse Practitioner Nurse Practitioner Nurse Practitioner Nurse Practitioner Nurse Practitioner Nurse Practitioner

Treatmentof ofWomen’s Women’s Health Health Concerns Treatment Concerns With anemphasis emphasison onpreventative preventative care With an care and andwellness wellness Women’sHealth HealthCare Care •• Annual Annual Wellness Women’s WellnessExams Exams Family Planning••Pelvic PelvicPain Pain •• Birth Birth Control Family Planning Control&&Hormones Hormones

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Coldwell Banker, Alfonso Realty

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 Lifelong resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast  10+ years experience

IF YOU’RE READY TO SELL, CALL THE REALTOR THAT CAN GET THE JOB DONE! July-August 2018 6

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FOUNDER Angela Bruni PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dorothy P. Wilson DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Crystal Scretching

We turn hopes into homes.

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Alexa Harrison Tammy Smith CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Buying, building or refinancing? Our knowledgeable and experienced lenders make the home loan process stress-free. Let us show you why we are ‘Like No Other Bank You Know.’

Ellis Anderson Dr. Stephanie Barnes Dr. Curtis Broussard Billie Comeaux Chris Dearman Dr. Philip L. Levin Sarah Lyons Jackie Merlau

Deborah Meza Sheryl Egan-Olaivar Dr. Stanford Owen Tina Perkins Stephanie Shaw Jerika Vincent Kathy Brown van Zutphen

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

ADVERTISE

(228) 539-2422 or Angela Bruni, (228) 760-8887 Jennifer Cox, (228) 697-5119 Karen Morgan, (228) 224-8207 Veronica Ratcliff, (228) 861-6503 Sherry Moxley Seaman, (706) 833-0123

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July-August 2018

3451 Washington Ave., Suite A, Gulfport, MS 39507 (228) 539-2422 CustomerService@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com © 2018 Gulf Coast Woman is published six times per year and is available free of charge. We encourage your comments, suggestions and submissions, however, we reserve the right to refuse or edit them. Gulf Coast Woman is not responsible for unsolicited documents or manuscripts. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

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CONT E NTS

annual Success Showcase

Chat back! YOUR THOUGHTS ON SUCCESS A successful woman is... “Builds up other people. Looks at situations as a team effort not as an “I” effort.Recognizes, appreciates and knows that no one is successful alone.” — Ann Miller Robinson

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“One who reaches out and takes the hand of another to help (them) become successful.” — Natasha Pickett

PA L AT E P L E A SE R S

We took the dining tour at Scarlet Pearl — see what we love!

E N HA N C E YOU R FAV F E AT U R E S

Merlau: Use the power of makeup to spotlight your best features. p.134

122

C O N G R AT S TO THE GRADS! Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College recognizes grads from area colleges and high schools. 10 10

July-August 2018

183

SU RV I VA L

Tips for surviving that road trip with the kids.

“A successful woman is (one) who lives up to her own expectations. As a stay at home mother, I have a degree in a drawer that goes unused, but I do my best every single day and that make me feel like a successful woman.” — Jasmine Bullock

Get in on the conversation! Use hashtag #iamgcw on your posts.

BEHIND THE COVER SHOOT Special thanks to the team pulling off this issue’s cover shoot!

Cover subject: Lori Harper Photography: Brandi Stage Make Up Artist: Jackie Merlau Hall Wardrobe: Grant’s for Her Location: Brandi Stage Portraiture Studio

Y M L E AD HOO 20 C 0 A C E E S 19-2 P HO DDL g 20 I M min Co

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.

NOW ENROLLING PRESCHOOL AND ELEMENTARY STUDENTS

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Celebrating

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STUDENT SUCCESS AT ANY AGE

BARBARA SMITH, 81, ACHIEVES THE DREAM: mgccc ad A COLLEGE DEGREE Barbara Smith, 81, of Vancleave has overcome innumerous obstacles along the path to her degree, but getting started late in life did not deter her. Since the death of her husband and mother a few years ago, she has been determined to complete her degree, something she has wanted to do for most of her adult life. “I’m very proud of what I’ve accomplished, and I can tell you that I never thought I would get here,” Smith said. “I just took a few classes at a time, and before I knew it, I was done and ready to graduate.” She participated in the commencement ceremony on May 10 at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and was cheered on by her family members, including her sister, daughters and grandchildren. Some traveled from Utah and South Carolina to see her cross the stage. “I’m just thrilled to be here, to have my family here and to have completed this goal,” she said. “Taking things like math and biology was very different for me, but I figured it out and ended up with great grades. The instructors at the college are just top notch and helped me all the way through.” Starting out slowly, with only one class her first semester, Smith completed her last semester this May with three classes, including yoga. “I won’t tell you that I could do all of the moves in yoga, but I did what I could and enjoyed it.” She added, “We have to keep moving, keep exercising at any age. Exercising the body and mind are equally important.” Encouraging other students to persevere in their educational goals, Smith arrived at campus with a smile and positive attitude every day. “Mrs. Barbara is just a tremendous lady,” said Sheila Lowery, enrollment specialist and VA certifying officer at MGCCC’s Jackson County Campus. “From the very first day she came into my office wanting to take college classes, she has been a role model for our students and, really, just everyone on our campus. She has so much energy, enthusiasm and courage for learning new things and discovering her potential.” Smith said she plans to continue with her education but doesn’t plan to commit to a particular major. “I enjoy a lot of different kind of things, and14I just July-August want to explore 2018my options and keep learning.”

“I’m very proud of what I’ve accomplished... before I knew it, I was done and ready to graduate.” Barbara Smith, Vancleave Resident & 2018 Graduate of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

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Barbara Smith, 81 2018 MGCCC Graduate Thirteen students graduated as part of the Collegiate Academy inaugural class. Collegiate Academy allows students to simultaneously earn a high school diploma and an associate degree. The student body consists of high school juniors and seniors enrolled in dual-credit courses at their high school and MGCCC.

2018 MGCCC COLLEGIATE ACADEMY GRADUATES

COLLEGIATE ACADEMY

L O RI

“

HARPER

‘I strive to pay it forward’

Lori A. Harper is one of the most successful women on the Coast, respected for her accomplishments and honored for her leadership and humbleness. Like many accomplished women, Harper’s drive to succeed has been fueled and underscored by the circumstances around her. Harper, recently retired as vice president of Supply Chain Management at Ingalls Shipbuilding, says her mother, Beulah Taylor Smith, is her shero and greatest inspiration. “Her mother died when she was 4 and her father and older siblings raised her on a sugar plantation in southern Louisiana. The odds were against her but she started college at Southern University and later dropped out to marry my father and start a family. A few years later, she was divorced with two children under the age of 3.” Growing up, Harper watched and learned as her mother sacrificed “so much in order to provide for us — sometimes working two or three jobs. After my sister and I entered high school, my mother went back to college, earned a degree in elementary education, and later acquired a master’s degree in education.” That’s the kind of determination that has shaped Harper into the strong, yet caring woman she is today. Her mother set an example of how to balance both strength and love. “She was my loudest cheerleader and also my harshest critic,” Harper says. “She held me to high standards but made sure that I never looked down on others. She encouraged me to take risks, was there to console me when I stumbled, but she never allowed the pity party to go on too long! She wasn’t perfect, but she loved me unconditionally and I owe all that I am to her.” In her role at Ingalls, Harper carried a lot of weight on her shoulders, but she had been groomed for those days by the her grandmother and mother. She provided leadership to 400 Gulf Coast supply chain management employees, managed a $20 million operating budget, and oversaw the procurement of $1 billion annually in goods and services. “Operationally, my team’s responsibilities included sourcing, procurement, material cost control, inventory control, warehousing, audits and compliance, technical training, and material program support,” she explains. “Our ultimate goal was to support the warfighter by providing our shipbuilders on the deck plate with quality materials and July-August 2018 16

services, on-time, and within cost targets.” Since joining the Ingalls team 18 years ago, she has held a number of leadership positions: director, Production Control; material director for the LHD 8 and LPD 17 programs; supply chain compliance manager; Gulfport operations material site manager; and Subcontracts Section manager. Prior to joining Ingalls, she held leadership positions with several Fortune 500 companies within the aerospace and defense, petrochemical and service industries. Prior to her retirement, she served on the Aerospace Industries Association Supplier Management Council

MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE. “I lost 200 pounds with bariatric surgery. I was struggling with diabetes and high blood pressure, and my quality of life was not what it needed to be. Since my surgery, my health, attitude and willingness to be a part of other activities has increased dramatically.”

– Rymsky, Bariatric patient

Our professional and caring team of registered dietitians and surgeons are dedicated to helping our patients through each step of the weight-loss process. Bariatric surgeons Dr. William Avara III and Dr. Jason Payne have earned a reputation for proven success, and they are part of a multidisciplinary team of Garden Park caregivers dedicated to helping you reach and maintain your healthy weight. Get started on your weight-loss journey by attending one of our free information sessions. Go to GardenParkMedical.com/WeightLoss or contact (228) 575-7412 to register and review upcoming dates.

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Executive Committee and on the University of South Alabama Mitchell School of Business Advisory Board. She currently serves on the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast Corporate Board of Directors and is board secretary. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Southwestern Oklahoma State University and an MBA from William Carey College. She also has completed leadership training at the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business and is a certified Six Sigma Green Belt. Her string of accomplishments just go on and on, but she’s also stared into the face of failure during her career. “In May of 2002, I lost a job that I absolutely loved. There were so many lessons learned from that waterfall moment but I’ll share three. “One was how quickly “success” can lead to “some mess.” I realized that not everyone is happy for you when things are going great and even fewer stick around when things are not so good. The lesson for me was to not be one of those people. “Secondly, was to always live below my means. After losing my job, our savings quickly ran out and we still had one child in college and another heading that way in two years. It was sobering to realize that we were like so many middle-class families — only one paycheck away from financial devastation and possible homelessness. I recommitted to keeping our financial house in order and to not judge others who are struggling. “Thirdly, losing my job was incredibly humbling. I don’t believe that I ever looked down on others before, but I had convinced myself that my intelligence and hard work were the primary reasons for my success. Losing my job and working several temporary assignments before landing a permanent position reminded me that there are a lot of intelligent, talented, hardworking people who for one reason or another don’t achieve the kind of success that most of us aspire to. I realize that I have been blessed with so many opportunities to do what I do best and it is my personal mission to pay it forward.” She has carried those lessons forward, remembering to stay committed to achieving her goals. “From an early age, I would make lists of things I wanted to accomplish. As I got older, these lists morphed into five-year plans that I would discuss with people I trusted. My plans focused on five areas: financial health, physical health, spiritual health, personal relationships, and professional growth. I knew that these areas needed strengthening in order to fulfill my dreams. I still make lists, I still have five-year plans, and I’m still committed to my own success.” Just as important to her though is being committed to helping others succeed. “I didn’t make it on my own (none of us have), so I strive to pay it forward by lifting others up,” Harper says. “My daily prayer is that I will make a difference in the lives of others and my hope is that the ‘dash’ on my headstone will tell a story that words can never do justice.” Lori Harper continued on p. 26

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We come together

MISSISSIPPI

Mississippi is your home, and it’s ours, too. We share your commitment to those you care about and the community we’re all a part of. You make Mississippi better every day, and you inspire us to make banking easier, so we all have more time to enjoy life as we take our next step together in this place we call home.

Do you know the MEN beside these successful women? RAYMOS MCMILLON’S GRANDMOTHER TAUGHT HIM A VALUABLE LESSON

Listening and encouraging are important ways Raymos McMillon supports his partner of 20 years, Lori Harper. “We have cherished the good times between us,” he says. “I also believe reflecting on challenges that impact any relationship, love and perseverance have been key components that allowed us to be successful.” McMillon, who retired from Mississippi Power as manager in Commercial and Economic Development, serves as a board member for Back Bay Mission in Biloxi. He and Harper met as co-workers while he was attending a staff meeting during his early years with the company. “I have never felt insecure or uncomfortable about her success,” he says. “I learned early on from a grandmother who was instrumental in my life that it is more about appreciation and respect, regardless of gender. Lori is an outstanding woman who was not given anything in life but has truly earned the accolades that have come her way. I have nothing but love for her and the many accomplishments over the years.” McMillon emphasizes Harper’s support of others as an important characteristic. “She has no ego,” he says. “Professionally, it is the positive impact on others as a leader and mentor through her coaching and counseling as measured by the constant and sincere feedback provided by those she has touched for so many years.”

Lori Harper and Raymos McMillon. Harper is retired VP, Supply Chain Management, at Ingalls Shipbuilding,

WATCHING HIS WIFE SUCCEED IS ONE OF RODGER MEINZINGER’S GREATEST JOYS

Pam and Rodger Meinzinger. Pam is general manager at Gulfport Premium Outlets.

July-August 2018

Rodger Meinzinger is his wife’s “biggest cheerleader and admirer.” Those are his exact words. “There is no greater joy than to see someone you love succeed. We’re a team and I willingly adapt my role as needed to allow her to be all she can be in all aspects,” he adds. July marks the Meinzingers’ 36th wedding anniversary, and through the years, Rodger says, being best friends and sharing strong Christian values have been paramount in their relationship’s success. “We’ve always shared in major decision making and focused on what was best for our family rather than for either of us individually. Listening, understanding his wife’s perspective, putting her needs before his and keeping life in perspective — “love, laugh and live” — are ways the community affairs manager at Mississippi Power supports and cheers on Pam. The two met while students at the University of Southern Mississippi. But wait. There’s more. Rodger just had to add some more qualities about his wife that he says make her truly great: “Her foundation of strong faith and values with a true love of her family, friends and community; her critical thinking and ability to quickly get to the root of any issue; her interpersonal skills and wit; and her smile.”

Welcome

Stephanie Shaw, Broker/Owner of Latter & Blum Shaw Properties in Gulfport, recently welcomed Broker Associate, Donna Lishen, to her team of REALTORS®. “Donna brings 30 years of sales experience and more than a decade of real estate experience to our team. Her experience working with diverse groups with in the business community while serving on the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce Board has prepared her with in-depth knowledge of out business community and opportunities. I look forward to working with her,” stated Stephanie. Donna commented on her recent move, “Moving to Latter & Blum Shaw Properties from a large, national brokerage has really energized me. I wanted a franchised operation that would be around for the long haul, yet offered a boutique atmosphere. We are focused on providing the very best client experience, and we do that with preparation, preparation, preparation. I can’t stress enough the importance of the hands-on training and positive energy in our office,” she explained.

Donna

“The agents in our office are well-respected and share the same love of our profession. I talk, think, and walk real estate. It is my passion as much as creating lifelong friendships with clients and associates. I feel blessed,” she added.

Broker Associate

Donna is a wife, mother of two sons, avid gardener, and a breast cancer survivor with a strong compass and clear path for continuing what she loves to do while touching others’ lives along the way.

Lishen 228-596-1063 (c) Dlishen@latterblum.com

Please join us in welcoming Donna. She may be reached at 228-569-1063 or Dlishen@latterblum.com.

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Experience the Difference At Latter & Blum Shaw Properties, we add value through understanding the realties of today’s real estate market without forgetting the dream of home ownership starts in the heart. This head and heart alignment allows our company to provide a world-class experience to buyers and sellers alike. After all, we are not number one, you are!

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MEN beside successful women

BOBBY JOHNSON IS GRATEFUL HIS WIFE GAVE A ‘WILD BOY’ LIKE HIM A CHANCE Bobby Johnson, retired after working with the Mississippi Department of Human Services and Mississippi Department of Education for 30 years, says he now divides his time between helping his wife, Cheryl, their family and church and getting his retirement checks. He and Cheryl met in a forensic science class at the University of Southern Mississippi and the chemistry obviously was right. “We were both criminal justice majors and in this class, we were studying things like fingerprints, blood splatters, and crime scene photos. This was in 1983 and shows like “CSI” had not yet made these type of things so popular. Cheryl was thinking about becoming a lawyer and I was thinking about girls. We became lab partners and the rest is history.” Bobby attributes their faith to the key to a long and successful relationship. “I know our relationship has been successful because of a Christian foundation and the mercy and patience of God. We have come a long way together in our spiritual journey. I don’t know how many times I’ve heard Cheryl say, ‘Bobby was the wildest boy I ever dated’. And I’m not going to elaborate on that in writing. But from the beginning we have known where our true help comes from and have continuously sharpened each other spiritually.” Bobby says he’s never felt insecure standing beside Cheryl as she rose to top positions in banking. “We have always supported and cheered each other on by celebrating wins, learning from challenges, helping or just listening to each other and by always saying I love you. “The feelings Cheryl’s success brings to me are joy, pride and thankfulness.”

More about

LORI

WHAT SHE WANTED TO BE WHEN SHE GREW UP “I wanted to be a high school or college teacher but that wasn’t possible without a college degree. Fortunately, my career has allowed me to ‘teach’ in a different way and I get great joy from sharing my knowledge with others and watching them grow and bloom.”

FAVORITE QUOTE “The kind of beauty I want most is the hard-to-get kind that comes from within — strength, courage, dignity.” — Ruby Dee, American actress

July-August 2018

Cheryl and Bobby Johnson. Johnson is senior vice president Wealth Lending Advisor, Regions Bank

WHAT WOULD PEOPLE BE VERY SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT HER? “I’m an introvert.” WHAT SHE’S MOST PROUD OF “I am most proud of my family. We live, we laugh, we love. My husband is my best friend and I’m blessed to share a life with him. It hasn’t always been easy, but together we have weathered the storms and are grateful for the journey. My sons are good men who’ve had their own bumps in the road but didn’t give up and continued to move forward. My stepdaughters are awesome women who juggle multiple roles with dignity and grace. And then there are our five amazing grandchildren who give me life. There’s nothing quite like hearing them say ‘Momo’. I’m incredibly blessed.”

www.gcwmultimedia.com

Aaron Duncan, general manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Biloxi

Justin Hill, director of Player Development at the Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort

Barry and Julie Lyons. Barry is a former player with the 1986 World Series Champion New York Mets and current team ambassador for the Biloxi Shuckers. Julie is sales manager and account executive for South Mississippi Business Machines.

Lisa “Momma” Vee and Bryan Rhodes of Kicker 108’s “Bryan and Momma in the Morning”. Lisa is production manager at Coast Radio Group and Bryan is operations manager at Coast Radio Group.

Steven Johnson, owner/creator of the clothing brand Scuba Steve

Justin Mitchell, regional growth and social editor for McClatchy, the parent company of The Sun Herald.

Sita La’Cap, restauranteur and owner of Le Cafe’ Beignet

July-August 2018

Jennifer Robinson, psychiatric nurse and CPI instructor at Garden Park Medical Center. Todd Trenchard will receive the Annette O’Keefe Humanitarian Award

MHA’s Don’t Worry Be Happy will honor Trenchard, 10 others The Don’t Worry Be Happy event benefiting the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi is set for July 20. The event will be held at the Biloxi Civic Center and begins at 7 p.m. and features a band, auction and other ways to contribute to mental health services on the Gulf Coast. Guests will enjoy food tastings from By the Slice, Fleur de Lis Gourmet Bakery, Glory Bound Gyro Co., Gulf Breeze Grill, Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort and Slap Ya Momma’s. Todd Trenchard will receive the Annette O’Keefe Humanitarian Award. He is the executive director of the Bacot McCarty Foundation and has served the community in a number of capacities working to help create better lives for others. Attendees will have an opportunity to bid during the live auction on vacation and other packages put together by the honorees. This year’s honorees are Aaron Duncan, Justin Hill, Steven Johnson, Sita La’Cap, Barry and Julie Lyons, Justin Mitchell, Jennifer Robinson, and Lisa “Momma” Vee and Bryan Rhodes. The Mental Health Association of South Mississippi is an organization that provides support to people seeking prevention education and to individuals who have mental health challenges. Programs include a Drop-In Center, Homeless Outreach and Housing, Peer Support, Wellness Recovery, Action Planning, and Mental Health First Aid. Through grants and community donations, the association is able to work with people in need on the Gulf Coast. DON’T WORRY BE HAPPY! Friday, July 20, 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. Biloxi Civic Center Tickets are $50 Tickets and more info: msmentalhealth.org/nec_ events/dontworrybehappy2018/ Photography by James Edward Bates Photography; Justin Mitchell’s photo by Amanda McCoy; submitted photo by Sita La’Cap

www.gcwmultimedia.com

“Tell ‘Em Lexi and Nick Sent Ya!”

228.388.2988

July-August 2018

264 BEAUVOIR RD. | BILOXI OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 9AM - 6PM

Success S

featuring SUCCESSFUL

WOM EN TO KNOW Sponsored by

www.gcwmultimedia.com

BILLIE R. COMEAUX CEO and Corporate Designer Billie began her career as a desig er and draftsman, but married into the Comeaux family, a name sy onymous with furniture. As she and husband Robert celebrate 20 years together in the furniture business, they have also expanded the family role adding their third generation David as COO and Grace as CFO. APRIL BULLOCK BURKS Owner, Love, Ivy and Eve Marie’s Boutique April has always had a passion for fashion and 12 years ago her dream of owning a boutique became a reality when she bought Eve Marie’s Boutique in Hattiesburg. She decided to bring her love for business and boutiques back home to the Coast 6 years ago and Love, Ivy was born!

JAMIE RHODES Owner, Prestige Auto Sales Jamie was born and raised in her lifelong family business of 75 years. She decided to branch out on her own five years ago into the car business with the love of her life. Prestige Auto Sales started with one shiny red Mustang and grew into what it is today. Prestige is known for it's beautiful customized Jeeps and big lifted trucks!

CECE SHABAZZ Executive Creative Director, The Focus Group Cece Shabazz is the multi-award winner Creative Director for The Focus Group, an advertising, marketing and public relations firm located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Cece has been a part of the advertising co munity for nearly 18 years, specializing in strategic branding initiatives for a diverse suite of clients. CONNIE ROCKCO Harrison County Board of Supervisors District 5 Supervisor Rockco is currently serving her fifth term as Supervisor District five and has served three terms as President of the Board of Supervisors. Mrs. Rockco could be called a pioneer of our time making history and changing history for women. Almost every career path she chose was a first.

July-August 2018

DR. ELAINE KAO Premier Women’s Health Dr. Kao hails from Greenville, South Carolina. She attended medical school at the Medical University of SC in coastal Charleston. After residency, she went to work in Gulfport, MS. She is board eligible with the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

CHRISTY STRAWBRIDGE Owner/Manager, Spherion Staffing Spherion Staffing is a locally woman owned business, celebrating 23 years of business, and managing it is Christy’s passion. As a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and past president of Gulf Coast Human Resource Association, Christy knows the market well and delivers excellent service. BRANDI STAGE Owner, Brandi Stage Portraiture Brandi specializes in creating a magazine-style photoshoot for everyday women. She draws out their beauty and captures it with her camera. Her work has been featured on the cover of Gulf Coast Woman magazine. She's active in the community, sitting on the Board for the Women’s Resource Center in Gulfport, member of GCN, CTE, PPLA, SBE and Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce. SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

TO KNOW

“When my customers feel good about what their wearing, I feel successful.” - Kristina Graham / owner

Celebrating 3 Years of SUCCESS! 310 Popps Ferry Road, Ste. 200 • Biloxi, MS 39531 •www.gcwmultimedia.com 228.207.0723

KEARN CHERRY

MAKING A DIFFERENCE I am passionate about touching the lives of others in everything I do, from sponsoring community events that empower others like the Success Women’s Conference; leading in organizations like Lighthouse Business & Professional Women; and helping those who are overwhelmed with the caregiving of others through my business, PRN Home Care Services.

SUPPORT EMPOWERING WOMEN IN BUSINESS Sept. 20-21, 2018 at IP Casino Resort & Spa 34

Become a sponsor!

July-August 2018 on Eventbrite Tickets available

I love having the opportunity to expand my efforts to serve caregivers through my TV show, “The Unwrinkled Heart.” The program gives answers to life’s most confusing questions.

KEEP UP WITH US ON TELEVISION Airs on CableOne Channel 1007 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 17 Reaches 138,000 households weekly Tune in! To become a sponsor, contact me at (228) 239-1867

YOU DESERVE A BREAK …

Taking care of your loved one can leave you drained and stressed.

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Call PRN to schedule a sitter for a few days or a couple of weeks so you can rest and refresh.

SERVICES WE PROVIDE:

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(228) 385-2603 or 888-782-3316 www.prnhomecareservices.com | kearn@prnhomecareservices.com

Celebrating 13 Successful Years! For Nezaty's Café owner, Joanne O'Keefe, customers are her inspiration. She has maintained over the years that the best part of Nezaty's is the people. Both she and each of her staff team members have made long-term friends through the eclectic clientele who have passed through Nezaty's’ doors. Joanne adamantly states, "It has been loyal customers who have kept the Cafe in business for the past 13 years, along with an amazing staff who have kept it running". The Cafe is a favorite for that first coffee of the day. The doors open at 7:00am Monday through Friday to the fragrances of fresh brewed coffees, baked stuffed croissants and pastries. Customers often sample coffee from "the coffee bar" to decide on their flavor for the day. An assortment of regional and flavored coffee beans are also sold by the pound, of which the majority are locally roasted by Coast Roast in Long Beach. During lunch, generous salads, soups, sandwiches, and paninis are enjoyed by all who enter. Nezaty's knows that not all sandwiches and paninis are created equal. Artisanal breads along with premium ingredients are what sets Nezaty's apart. A few of the breads include stone-baked kalamata olive bread, rosemary ciabatta, and the signature French bread. From the Vegetali to the New Orleans-style muffalatta to the signature

{

chicken salad on fresh baked croissant, there is something to satisfy everyone's craving. While the food may be amazing, it is the warm atmosphere that invites all who enter the doors to stay and visit. Joanne says, "It is truly like having friends and family over every day for coffee and/or lunch." The ambiance of this quaint café sets the tone to come in, relax, and enjoy casual dining. The walls are adorned with beautiful original paintings exclusively by local Gulf Coast artists. There is even a small cozy nook on one side of the Cafe with comfy leather chairs to have a coffee, smoothie, or even a lunch meeting. Catering trays for breakfast and lunch can be ready for pickup or delivery. The Café currently caters to the following groups: • • • • • •

Medical offices Attorney’s offices Real Estate offices and/or Open Houses Corporate offices Family gatherings Funeral Visitations

A 48 hour notice on large catering orders and 24 hour notice on smaller orders is recommended.

}

It is truly like having friends and family over every day for coffee and/or lunch.

Coffee July-August 2018

~Joanne O’Keefe, Owner Pastries

Sandwiches

Salads

Soups

L to R: Joanne O’Keefe, April Bennett, Manager

360 Courthouse Road, Suite C • Gulfport, MS • www.nezatys.com

228.897.1139 Hours: Monday - Firday 7:00am - 4:00pm www.gcwmultimedia.com

DEBBIE BATIA Owner, D.Batia Interiors, LLC With 41 years of personal experience, Debbie specializes in home and corporate interior design, providing furnishings and accessories from conception to completion, as well as commercial and residential design of any scope, size and budget. Debbie is involved in Biloxi civic activities and enjoys time with her family. JOCELYN GAVIN-LANE Therapist, Premier Professional Counseling Jocelyn is the owner of Premier Professional Counseling Services, LLC. The mission is seeing the client as a whole person, and not the circumstance they are currently facing. She is the CEO & founder of The Pink Lotus Project a nonprofit organization focused on empowering women and mentoring girls.

TRACIE STRAYHAM Owner, Lamey Electric My husband Nicolas and I own the oldest electrical contracting firm in Biloxi, serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast since 1940. We specialize in traffic signals, light poles, light design, lift stations, commercial and residential electric, but there is no job too big or small for Lamey Electric. We pride ourselves on our honesty, integrity, and trust.

SHANNON WALL President/Publisher, Sun Herald First female Publisher of the Sun Herald. 26 years experience in marketing and media including 15 years in the gaming industry; over 10 years at the Sun Herald. 2018 CYP Forever Young winner. She serves on the GCBC board and is a member of the Gulfport Rotary and Coast Chamber. TISH WILLIAMS Executive Director, Hancock County Chamber of Commerce Tish Williams has served as Executive Director of the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce for the past 16 years. She is a founder and executive director of the Hancock Community Development Foundation, incubating 20 community causes. She also serves as executive director of Partners for Stennis & Michoud, a regional two state advocacy organization. 38

July-August 2018

JERIKA VINCENT Executive Producer, Jerika's Fashion Showcase I love supporting local businesses and advertising what the beautiful Gulf Coast has to offer. Watch Jerika's Fashion Showcase on WLOX CBS every Saturday Night at 6:30 P.M, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Snap Chat to see the hottest trends along the Coast.

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

KATHY ROGERS VP, Marston Rogers Group Kathy Rogers is owner, VP and operations manager of Marston Rogers Group a life insurance and financial services businesses She is co-founder of Adopt A Grandparent Day whose mission is to organize visits to seniors in nursing homes; Women’s Resource Center Board of Directors President; and volunteer at Northwood Church. BROOKE BROADUS Owner, Dressed In Blue Boutique I have a Bachelors degree in Radiology and originally went in as a partner when the shop first opened. I took over as sole owner about 6 months in and dressed In Blue became our family’s second home! Most people ask where the name came from? We as a family love Disney World and while Cinderella is my favorite princess, we chose “Blue” since that is the color of her dress! SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

TO KNOW

YE TO SCHOOL ANXIETY TO BETTER GRADES AND SCORES

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JULIE J. GRESHAM Assistant General Counsel and Director of Compliance, Huntington Ingalls Industries In her current position, Julie J. Gresham focuses her efforts on the Ingalls Shipbuilding division. She is Past President of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce. She serves on the boards of directors for the American Red Cross, Gulf Coast Community Foundation, and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. DALLAS KELLY Senior Vice President, Burnham Drugs Realtor, Fidelis Realty Dallas Kelly is a Mississippi Gulf Coast native. She has utilized her customer service skills to manage part of a chain of locally owned drugstores. As a realtor, she satisfies her passion for helping people with buying and selling their homes. She has just eagerly begun her new journey!

ANDRIA ALLEN Controller, Allen Hyundai & Allen Pre-Owned Andria Allen is the Controller for Allen Hyundai & Allen PreOwned. She has a background in finance and received her undergraduate degree from USM in Hattiesburg and MBA from Tulane University. She is a Gulfport native and works side-by-side with her husband, Scott Allen, to run both locations.

ASHLEY FILLINGAME-SEYMER Head Designer, Sadie Jane’s Famous Wreaths and Gifts Ashley’s passion for decorating and crafting came to life when Sadie Jane’s came to life 10 years ago. Not only do they offer custom wreaths to glam up an entrance way, but also throughout the coast you might just get a glimpse of their decorating talent as well. LUANN PAPPAS Chief Executive Officer, Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort LuAnn is the Chief Executive Office of Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort and her career in gaming spans 35 years. LuAnn previously worked for Caesars Entertainment in NJ, MS and LA. LuAnn has one son Ralph Dane who resides in New Jersey and 3 little puppies - Bella, Bentley and Burberry. 40

July-August 2018

DR. CARLA J. EVERS Superintendent, Pass Christian Public School District Dr. Evers finds passion in empowering all students to be college-career ready critical thinkers. During her tenure, the district has achieved its highest pass rate on the 3rd grade reading assessment, its highest ACT scores, and earned $20.7+ million in scholarship offerings. She thanks God for this awesome Pirate experience.

MELISSA HAMILTON Owner, bijoubel, LLC & Joan Vass off Broadway With over 25 years in retail management, Melissa has grown bijoubel to 10 times its original size in just 6 years. Beginning with only 200 sq. ft. of display space. Now she’s expanded into the entire front of 126 Main St. and has a satellite shop right next door: Joan Vass off Broadway. KEVA SCOTT Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast Keva has a proven executive management track record with over 22 years of experience in leading nonprofit agencies. Her strengths are developing strong operational teams, strategic partnerships, and leadership development. Keva earned a B.A. in Communications, Masters in Business-Organizational Development, and an Education Specialist in Training and Development. SUCCESSFUL

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

WOMEN

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CELEBRATING THREE YEARS OF SUCCESS!

OVER TWO HUNDRED SIZES Offering PERSONALIZED FITTINGS for Everyday Bras, Sport, Strapless, Nursing, Post Mastectomy, and Post Surgery

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JENNIFER SUTTON, DVM Co-owner, Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital and Beach View Veterinary Hospital Working alongside husband Jeff, Dr. Jennifer Sutton offers unparalleled care and compassion in a technologically advanced facility. Appreciating that animals are not just pets, Dr. Sutton offers both urgent and emergency care and full-service companion and exotic animal care. She is also extensively involved in civic activities. TIFFANY BELL Executive Director, Women's Resource Center Tiffany Bell is the Executive Director of the Women's Resource Center. Tiffany serves on the Board of Directors of the Biloxi Bay Area Chamber and Lighthouse Business Professional Women. She also serves as Co-Director of the Success Women's Conference and as a member of the Orange Groove Kiwanis Club. DENISE HOWELL CPA, President, Howell CPA, PA Denise Howell, the sole owner of Howell CPA, has 20 years experience in public accounting; taxation; and, business financial, management, and taxation consulting in 48 states with specialties in transportation, fuel excise, medical, real estate, and hospitality businesses. Howell CPA currently employs two CPAs, one CPA candidate, and two para-professionals. BRANDY JARVIS IBOS Owner, The Sequin Siren Brandy is a graduate of USM holding a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. She has a love for dance and over the years has performed with the Southern Misses, Dixie Darlings, and after college she was chosen as a NFL cheerleader and performed with the Saintsations for 4 years. She has served her community through several organizations and represented the Krewe of Neptune as Queen Venus XXXI. 42

July-August 2018

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

KATHY VAN ZUTPHEN Attorney, AL-MS COASTAL LAW Practicing law for 20 years in Alabama and Mississippi, I was initially a litigator handling defense of trucking accidents, defective construction claims, and personal injury actions. After my father developed Parkinson’s Disease, I have added “Elder Law” assistance to my legal practice, including probate, guardianships, conservatorships, trusts and estates. EMILY SHAM Sales and Marketing Manager, Two Men and a Truck In her 6 years of experience, Sham has brought a new prospective to the moving industry. With her marketing and sales knowledge, she sets TWO MEN AND A TRUCK apart from all other moving companies, by focusing on the customer's overall experience and exceeding their expectations. BECKY FARRELL Attorney Law Office, Becky Farrell, PLLC Law Office of Becky Farrell, PLLC, Bay St. Louis, for 17 years. primarily accident, injury, estate, and criminal law. passionate about access to justice and advocating for children. volunteer in children ministry, member of the American, MS, and Hancock County Bar Assc. DR. DANNELL ROBERTS, PH.D., BCBA-D Co-founder and Program Director, Will’s Way Behavioral Health, LLC Licensed Psychologist, Board Certified Behavioral Analyst Driven by a passion for helping children in need, and backed by extensive training and 13 years of experience in pediatric behavioral therapy, Dr. Roberts strives to offer the best behavioral solutions tailored to each family seeking help from Will’s Way, an organization she co-founded in 2008. SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

TO KNOW

“I credit my success to God! Without him, I would have nothing! I also credit my success to the many people who have supported me through the years, my friends, family, customers, and employees! They have remained loyal and dedicated to me throughout my career!”

April Bullock Burks, Owner

CELEBRATING

(601) 450-0559 www.shopevemaries.com

914 Washington Avenue Downtown Ocean Springs

12 Years of Success!

6 Years of Success!

www.gcwmultimedia.com

DAVE ESTORGE,

ALLISON BUCHANAN,

“The Chamber’s role in legislative advocacy is very clear. The chamber represents our business community both small businesses and large businesses. The chamber gives these businesses a voice.”

“During the year we go to so many events and committee meetings, where we get to network with other businesses to learn and also develop new business. Our team also has the opportunity for professional development through the year at the many seminars and workshops on great topics.”

Memorial Hospital

JAKAVIOUS PICKETT, Praise Temple Biloxi

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For Details, please call 228-604-0014 or email info@mscoastchamber.com

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“I enjoy being around people who inspire me. I love the camera and I truly connect with people on and off camera … . I do compete with myself in every way. That’s what keeps me moving. But I believe in others succeeding, and I look for ways to help them succeed.” Watch “Jerika’s Fashion Showcase” WLOX-CBS, Saturday’s at 6:30 p.m.

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July-August 2018

@jerikasfashionshowcase

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).

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Success is loving what you do, having a great support team, and possessing the drive to make things happen.â&#x20AC;? MARISA SHANNON McGEORGE, NP-C,C.A.N.S.

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24 Marks Rd.

www.gcwmultimedia.com 45 Ocean Springs, MS 39564

LATISHA PRICE Independent Beauty Consulatant Mary Kay Cosmetics Latisha Price is on a mission to encourage, inspire, and empower the lives of women. Mrs. Price is a graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. She is an Advanced Product Consultant and she values her faith, family, and career. HOLLY LEMOINE-RAYMOND Owner/Broker/Designer, HLRaymond Properties LLC With her motto of "keep it simple", Holly opened her brokerage less than 2 years ago, and has been humbled by its rapid growth & the opportunities to appear on HGTV and Great American Country on shows such as "Beach Front Bargain Hunt" & "YOU LIVE IN WHAT?." ERICA LAYTON Owner, Layton’s I have been in retail sales over 25 years with several different companies each with experiences to grow from. I opened Layton’s to expose customers to new and unique products and artists that are local, regional, and primarily USA. GENEVA DUMMER Owner/operator, The Meeting Place, LLC; administrator, Heritage Trails Partnership of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Geneva’s passion lies in economic and community development, public health, and community involvement. Since moving to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 2008, she has sought opportunities to bring these concerns together, most notably through her involvement with Heritage Trails Partnership of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She launched the Meeting Place in 2012. 46

July-August 2018

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

NELL SCHMIDT Business Development Officer, Keesler Federal Credit Union, Biloxi Nell Schmidt attended the University of Southern Mississippi and moved to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 1982. She became active with the local Chambers and organizations. At Keesler Federal Credit Union, Nell establishes relationships and cultivates community outreach as an advocate of the company’s values, mission and vision. JILL COMPTON Director of Operations, Compton and Son Appliance, LLC and Outdoor Living Center I am very proud to be a part of third generation company. It has become my passion helping my customers design their outdoor oasis. Working with color texture and style from simple and classic to eccentric. KEARN CHERRY VP of Operations/Co-owner PRN Home Care As a business owner, Kearn believes that you must be a community leader. She has served on many boards and committees and created several organizations, such as, Heart Association, Lighthouse BPW, Mental Health Association, Success Women's Conference, Blessed Gyrls Rock!, R.I.P.E. Conference. She is now bringing her TV show, "Unwrinkled Heart Caregivers' Journeys" to homes on the MS Gulf Coast. ALESIA STEELE Fantastic Sams, Biloxi/Ocean Springs 30 + years in the salon industry. Indiana , Louisiana, Texas, Michigan, and Mississippi as well as many hair shows around the world. Fantastic Sams is growing much like coast with our family values policy. Another 10 to 20 years Alesia and her staff hopes to serve all who enters for salon services. SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

TO KNOW

MEET ANDRIA ALLEN Controller, Allen Hyundai

Andria is a Gulfport native that has rediscovered her home and passion here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast while working alongside her husband, Scott Allen, after chasing her dreams of big city life for 10 years. Today, Andria shares an office with her husband, owner of Allen Hyundai, and together they handle all day-to-day decisions of the Gulfport based car dealership. After graduating with her Bachelor’s in Finance from USM she moved to Atlanta where she worked for American General Finance a division of AIG before taking a position as the Assistant Vice President at a large commercial janitorial business in D.C. After living the rat race of city life for nearly a decade as one of the youngest female executives in the business, Andria made the decision to be closer to her nieces and moved home to Gulfport. She met Scott shortly after moving home and the couple were married in 2014. In 2015, Andria was accepted into Tulane’s Executive MBA program and just a month after being accepted into the program she found out she was pregnant with their first child. She managed to graduate from Tulane’s eMBA program as the only woman to have ever had a baby while in the program and still finish on time. She came to work with Scott after graduating as he finished the process of purchasing Allen Hyundai last year. She passionately pushes for more women in the automotive industry. At Allen Hyundai, she mentors women to become leaders in a historically male dominated field. The National Automobile Dealers Association recently reported that women make up 19% of dealership employees and at Allen Hyundai women represent 28%. “We don’t typically see female applicants looking for a sales position, but we want women to know that it can be quite rewarding to help someone find a car that fits their needs in an industry that has had a notorious reputation” says Andria. “I think women have a misconception out there that you have to be a car enthusiast to do the job and really it’s like any other sales job, you just have to help someone find a solution to their problem and we have a car lot full of solutions.” At Allen Hyundai, they focus on a culture that encourages women to join a new era in Automotive Sales.

EMPOWERING WOMEN IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY www.gcwmultimedia.com 47 624 E PASS RD, GULFPORT, MS 39507 | WWW.ALLENHYUNDAI.COM | (228) 539-5555

JENNY NICAUD Attorney, Copeland Cook Taylor and Bush Jenny specializes in Professional Liability, Construction, Restaurant, Hospitality, Business Litigation, Insurance Risk Management and Family Law at. Jenny has worked in Federal Courts covering Mississippi and Louisiana for 30 years. Jenny’s hobby is interior design. Her latest project is the beautiful Pass Christian Hotel. DR. APRIL ULMER Pediatric Gastroenterologist Dr. April Ulmer aka “The Tummy Dr.”, is a Board Certified Pediatric Gastroenterologist who presently practices on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Dr. Ulmer is a native Mississippian who received her medical training at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and her post-graduate training at prestigious medical centers along the East Coast before ultimately returning to Mississippi to practice. VICKI HOWARD Co-Owner/Color Consultant, Howard's Paint and Decorating I have worked with my husband, Mark in our business for over 25 years. We have two sons. Mark-David, and wife Amanda; Chad and wife Tricia; four grandchildren, Lexi, Annalie, Maddox and T.C. My family means the world to me!!! DR. KIM BELLIPANNI. PH.D., BCBA-D Co-founder and Clinical Director, Will’s Way Behavioral Health, LLC School Psychologist, MS Dept of Ed., Board Certified Behavior Analyst - Doctoral Inspired by her internship and 3-year post-doc at John Hopkins University, working with children with special needs, Dr. Bellipanni was determined to fill the need for similar exemplary services in South Mississippi. Bellipanni has been fulfilling that mission through her clinical direction at Will’s Way since co-founding the organization in 2008. 48

July-August 2018

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

REBECA FAIRLEY Owner, Panache apparel & Accessories After graduating from USM with a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising, Rebeca opened Panache in a small corner spot in Gulfport. It wasn’t long that Panache grew and expanded. And now, after 12 years of success, Rebeca and the staff of Panache are expanding once again to a brand new location right next door to their old place in July 2018. KIM GAUGHF, Life Coach Kim Gaughf has always been a Coach at heart. She’s been a manager, a corporate trainer, and mentor for most of her professional life. She built relationships and bonds with those whose lives she impacted. It was a natural and seamless transition in 2017, when she chose to build a life coaching business. KIMBERLY NASTASI, IOM, CAE Director of Communication, Ingalls Shipbuilding Prior to joining Ingalls, Kimberly was the Chief Executive Officer of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Kimberly serves as Co-Chair of the Gulf Coast Business Council’s Master’s Program, as a member of the Coast Partners Advisory Council for the University of Southern Mississippi College of Business, and as a member of Ingalls Shipbuilding Diversity Council. HOLLY S. GIBBS Broker Associate, J. Carter & Co. Real Estate & Development I work with Buyers, Sellers, and Investors in Mississippi to assist you with your buying, selling, and investment portfolio. As a Multi-Million Dollar Producer my success comes from how professionally I treat each client transition and the great customer service I offer. My Clients continue to refer me to their friends and family and for that I am truly blessed!

SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

TO KNOW

CELEBRATING OUR

First Year OF SUCCESS!

“My goal to make Bella Luna Boutique successful is to develop and enhance strong relationships with our customers all while offering them items which make them feel beautiful.” DENA MCGRATH MANAGER

900 WASHINGTON AVENUE DOWNTOWN OCEAN SPRINGS www.gcwmultimedia.com 228-327-9191

SHERRY OWEN Broker/Owner, Owen & Co., LLC Real Estate Sherry Owen is known for her passionate commitment to her clients, professionalism, innovative marketing and knowledge of our Mississippi Gulf Coast. A long-time resident with deep family roots, her success in real estate includes residential, condo, commercial, land and investment property sales. The Owen family has been in business since 1945. JOANNE O'KEEFE Owner, Nezaty's Cafe After receiving her MBA, Joanne began a career in waste management and later became a market development manager for environmental emergency response companies in Atlanta. In 2002, she and her son, Jeff, returned home to the Coast. Joanne purchased Nezaty's Cafe in 2005, starting her second career. KATE DENNIS SPEAR VP of Sales & Development Specialty Contractors & Associates, Inc. A third-generation commercial contractor, Kate serves on Gulf Coast Carnival Association and St. Vincent dePaul Community Pharmacy boards and previously chaired Coast Young Professionals. Recognized as a Top 10 Business Leader Under 40, she graduated from Leadership Gulf Coast and Leadership Mississippi. Kate and husband, Chris, have one daughter, Louisa. CHERYL JOHNSON SVP, Private Wealth Lending Advisor at Regions Bank Cheryl Johnson is the Private Wealth Lending Advisor for Regions Private Wealth Management in Mississippi, and the MS Gulf Coast Market Executive for Regions Bank. Cheryl is a banking veteran of 41 years. She has been recognized as the 2017 Woman of Achievement, Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Women, South MS Outstanding Community Leader, Corporate Woman of Achievement, and Best of the Best (Regions Bank). 50

July-August 2018

MARY CRACCHIOLO SPAIN, APR Regional Director of Public Relations, MGM Resorts International 20-year veteran of the MS tourism industry, Cracchiolo Spain serves as the Regional Director of PR for MGM Resorts International Mississippi. She is also the current Chair of Red Cross Biloxi, Visit MS Gulf Coast Regional Tourism Board Commissioner, and past chair of the PRSA Travel & Tourism section. DR. SHAUN WEAVER MCKEE President, Coastal Imaging Associates, P.A. Dr. Shaun Weaver McKee is a double board-certified neuroradiologist, 2-time Ironman triathlete and ultra-marathoner. Dr. McKee is a current member of the Medical Advisory Board for biotech company LFVN, and is president of The Vitality MD, an online optimal wellness site. BRANDIN BROSH Owner, Charisma “A Girl’s Best Outfit” Brandin has always loved fashion and opened the doors to Charisma in Downtown Ocean Springs 4 years ago. She has a passion for the Downtown area participating as a Chamber member and is a participator and advocate for all Downtown OS events. DHIANA MCKAIG SKRMETTI Executive Director, Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra, Inc. Dhiana Skrmetti is a hands-on professional whose wide-ranging career has given her experience in nonprofits, military protocol, sales, research, marketing, fundraising, customer service and budgets. Motherhood to her two beautiful children is Skrmetti’s greatest personal achievement, while professionally, Skrmetti names creating the Women Entrepreneurs Small Business grant. SUCCESSFUL

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

WOMEN

TO KNOW

Celebrating 3 Years of Success!

“My definition of success is learning and growing everyday. Try to be a better version of yourself than you were yesterday. It’s true what they say find your passion and what brings you joy and you will never feel like you work a job.” Erica Layton, Owner

630 Washington Ave. | Ocean Springs, MS 39564 | Mon-Sat 10-5 | 228-215-1415 www.gcwmultimedia.com

ROBIN KILLEEN Founder, W.O.W. Women of Wisdom Robin Killeen, Founded W.O.W. in 1999. W.O.W. is a marketplace ministry that empowers women from all backgrounds and ages. Before W.O.W., she was the Regional Manager for Multi Staffing for over 24 years. Robin resides in Biloxi and is married to Patrick Killeen. DR. PAM TULI Medical OncologistHematologist, The Medical Oncology Group Dr. Tuli, Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, has been practicing medicine for two decades while caring for patients on the Mississippi Gulf Coast since 2007. She studied medicine at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA and then went on to complete her fellowship while serving in the United States Air Force. LU MORGAN Owner, Sugar & Spice Fine Children’s Apparel My name is Lu Morgan (owner for 3 years) and I am blessed to have a support staff and working staff including my Husband of 15 years (JJ), Daughter (Patricia), son (Joseph) and my parents (Penny and Larry). This is my Success! CHELI STRUMILA Owner/Editor, Coast Observer; Owner/Editor, Coupon Concierge; CoOwner, Magnolia L & E Cheli Strumila, Owner/ Editor of Coast Observer for 19 years, Magnolia L&E for 9 years, and Coupon Concierge, is a self-made entrepreneur. Cheli is the founder of the Covey Awards and founder of the newest all ladies female parading mardi gras krewe, Krewe of Salacia. Cheli has received several awards including: Coast Chamber’s Tapestry Award, MBJ’s Top CEO and Top Entrepreneur, CYP’s Forever Young Award, and WOE Entrepreneur of the Year Award. 52

July-August 2018

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

NIKKI JOHNS Business Development Manager, AGJ Systems and Networks After a 13-year banking career, Nikki joined AGJ, where she helps grow the customer base and maintains profitable relationships in six Mississippi counties. Johns serves on the Gulfport Chamber board, is on the advisory council for Back Bay Mission, is a 2015 graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast, and was selected to the 2013 Class of 50 Leading Business Women by the MS Business Journal. EMILY BURKE Public Relations Manager, IP CASINO RESORT SPA Emily Burke is the public relations manager for IP CASINO RESORT & SPA that offers 81,000 sq. ft. of gaming space, 1,200 rooms, 65,000 sq. ft. of meeting space and amenities. Burke earned a degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and is actively serving on various boards and committees. KATIE ALLEN CUSICK Owner, Nella Home Interiors & Gifts Having to trust the timing in my life, I always knew one day my passion would become my career. With the love and support of so many, Nella was finally born! MICHELE CLARKE Owner/founder, Eat Right Meal Prep Over 5 years ago, Michele started managing Bayou View Fitness, the gym on Cowan Rd. in Gulfport that she and her husband Joff own together. She enlisted the help Salute Restaurant and with the help of both Rob and her husband she decided to launch Eat Right Meal Prep. Her company is now the leading Mississippi Meal Prep Company. SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

TO KNOW

Celebrating

4 Years of

Success!

Brooke Broadus, Owner and Beckham

“Success is being able to find your perfect balance between family and work while still enjoying the little moments!” 8930 Lorraine Road, Suite B • Gulfport, MS 39503 • 228-669-5799 www.gcwmultimedia.com

Christy Strawbridge Owner/Manager Spherion Staffing

Come make some Come make some ash ash with with us! us!

Enjoy Enjoyyour yourfavorite favorite stogie and stogie andbeverages beverageinin aarelaxing relaxingatmosphere atmosphere in beautiful in beautifulDowntown Downtown Pass Christian Pass Christian

Patricia Holland, co-proprietor

124 Davis Avenue, Pass Christian

228.452.9534

Spherion Staffing is a locally woman owned business and managing it is Christy’s passion. This year, Christy and her company are celebrating 23 years of continuous business on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Earning her degree from Mississippi State University and a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast as well as serving as past president of Gulf Coast Human Resource Association, Christy knows the market well and has the right solutions for delivering service excellence to Spherion’s client companies in a tight labor market.

Dissatisfied with your current phone provider? • AFFORDABLE PHONE SERVICE • GREAT LOOKING WEBSITES • PROFESSIONAL EMAIL ADDRESSES • NO CONTRACT EVER

Call for a FREE consultation 3415 Washington Ave. | Suite A | Gulfport

228-868-9191 | www.spherion.com 54

July-August 2018

(228) 248-0700

info@trunkmasters.com

We are impacting our community one life at a time!

• Pregnancy Tests • Peer Counseling • Ultrasounds

• Parenting & Prenatal Classes • Pregnancy Loss Support • Hablas español

WOMEN’S RESOURCE CENTER Pregnancy Solutions

9155 Lorraine Rd | Gulfport, MS 39503 | 228.897.8958 Book your appointment at www.wrcgulfport.org www.gcwmultimedia.com

KATIE HINKEL Owner, Lee Tracy Katie Hinkel lives in Pascagoula with her husband, Brian and their two children. She enjoys yoga, beach walks and dreaming up Brian's next house project. She is grateful to have grown up in her family's business and is excited to pass the legacy along to her children.

CONNIE MORAN Property Development and Public Service, Moran Consultantsy Connie served as Mayor of the City of Ocean Springs from 20052017. She helped lead the rebuilding of the city following Hurricane Katrina with award winning projects. She continues her expertise in private economic development. She holds a Master’s degree in International Finace from Georgetown University.

PATRICIA HOLLAND Co-proprietor, Cigars in the Pass With a B.S. and a M.S. in urban studies and disaster management, Patricia Holland’s career has taken an unexpected rewarding turn from Director and Grant Management leadership in Housing and Community Development organizations to entrepreneurship. Her cigar lounge incorporates her passion for cigarswith her love of people and community.

ERIN GIBSON Operations Manager, Huntington Learning Center 17 years education experience &amp; over 10 years as a successful franchisee in Gulfport. Erin is the mother of Sophia (5) and Ava (2), PTO President at Hope Academy, and happily married to Jason for 12 years! Favorite quote: “I already need a nap tomorrow!”

NATALIE GUESS Director of EIGS and Unmanned Coast, Magnolia Business Alliance Natalie in interactive marketing, customer development and territory management. Natalie stays involved in her community by sitting on the Board as President for CASA of Hancock County and the Hancock County Tourism Bureau. Guess is currently enrolled in the Institute for Integrative Nutrition becoming a Certified Health and Wellness Coach.

RACHAEL HOLLINGSWORTH Owner, Polished Salon & Spa I have been a stylist for over 20 years having done hair here on the coast and in Florida, Portugal, and Turkey. I am now living out my life long dream of owning my own salon with Polished Salon & Spa and a wonderful and talented group of other success stylists. AMY PEOPLES WOOD Broker/Owner, AMY WOOD PROPERTIES I truly enjoy showing what the Gulf Coast offers! My boutique real estate brokerage has the latest technology,but personal service that is so important in today’s real estate world. When I retired from GAYFERS in the 90’s,to focus on family; I did not realize I would begin another career so rewarding!

July-August 2018

MARISA SHANNON MCGEORGE, NP-C.C.A.N.S. The Skin Studio at Garrott Dermatology Marisa has fifteen years of experience as a nurse practitioner. In addition to practicing general dermatology, she is also experienced and certified in cosmetic dermatology as a Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist. Areas of specialty include Botox, Juvederm, Dysport, Restylane, microneedling with PRP, laser treatments, and chemical peels. SUCCESSFUL

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

WOMEN

TO KNOW

CELEBRATING 2 YEARS OF SUCCESS!

“When people come into my place and say it's their new favorite place and that they feel at home here - this is my definition of success.” Susan Hagan, Owner

Vintage, Antiques, MS Artisans and Home Decor 1811 Government Street

Ocean Springs, MS

228.493.8101

www.gcwmultimedia.com

LESLIE KELLEY VP of Business Development, Community Bank Leslie Kelley began her banking career with Community Bank in 2003. Leslie has the knowledge and understanding to effectively assist customers with their financial needs. Leslie concentrates on servicing Commercial and Personal customers and is an expert in the Treasury Management field which allows her to address customers’ needs efficiently.

TANYA MARIE LEWIS Founder, Handmaidens in the Marketplace Tanya Lewis is an author, speaker and consultant. The Handmaiden's platform was created to showcase God's hidden jewels who are using their talents to build sustainable businesses that serve family, church & community. Tanya believe it's important to Know your Worth, Know your Wealth in order to Know your Destiny.

ADA CAULEY Owner/Director, Visiting Angels Caregiving can be stressful, especially for family members caring for their loved ones. Our services offer solutions to bring you peace of mind. Senior Home Care , Respite Care, Transition Care. We build relationships. LAURIE M. LEES President/CEO, Nursing Management, Inc. Since 1988, Laurie M. Lees and Nursing Management,Inc.’s purpose has been to provide quality health care and client education to individuals in home, group, and institutional settings. Thirty years in and still going strong, Laurie and her team offer comprehensive home care services throughout the state. RACHEL HESTER Business Owner, iBi Marketing Solutions & QR Blvd. Rachel is an entrepreneur at heart. Her mission has been to grow the MS, AL and FL gulf coast communities and local businesses through her marketing agency’s services. She has served on economic development committees along the gulf coast, and continues to look for ways to get involved locally.

July-August 2018

KRISTINA GRAHAM Owner, Tribe Boutique “After moving to New York and attending LIM College for fashion merchandising, I began working on the wholesale side of the fashion industry. When I moved home, I wanted to bring a new style to the coast - that’s Tribe.”

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

SUSAN HAGAN Owner, Ocean Springs Mercantile Susan Hagan, a native of Texas, has been in the retail business for over 20 years. Her store, a collection of antiques, vintage, home decor and local artisans, is a mix of old meets new. Susan’s passion for helping others with their decor needs shows in the long term relationships she forms with her customers. CINDY LAMB Manager of Client Relations, Pickering Firm, Inc., Biloxi In addition to the position at Pickering, Cindy is an accomplished award-winning photographer, published author, public speaker, manager of a self storage facility, and owner of a light construction and home maintenance company; she flips houses when she can find one; she is a mother, and the most rewarding position: Grandmother!. SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

TO KNOW

“Success to me is not something tangible, it is the intrinsic rewards you receive from knowing that you have taken every opportunity to better yourself, inspire others, and leave a legacy to be remembered by. As a woman in business to be successful one must utilize her creativity to overcome obstacles, contribute to her community, and cultivate a life she loves. After a long day of work, the smile on a woman’s face is the confirmation that she has achieved success.”

BRANDY JARVIS IBOS, OWNER

228-282-3000 | www.thesequinsiren.com | 1765 Popps Ferry Road, Biloxi, MS 39532 59 www.gcwmultimedia.com

Your next

Meeting

Photograph by Kirstin and James Newkirk

place...

The HOSPITALIT Y RESORT MANAGEMENT CENTER at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is the perfect venue for meetings, weddings and other events. With over 5,000 square feet of ballroom space, the HRM Center will accommodate up to 350 guests.

Photograph by Jim Tabor, Destiny Photography

• Price includes use of tables and chairs as well as set up and audio visual • Price includes rental of catering kitchen, equipped with a cooler/ freezer, ice machine and food warmer • BYO Catering or you can choose our on site caterer • BYO alcohol

420 Debuys Rd., Biloxi MS 39531 | LISA BRADLEY | (228) 897-3971 | lisa.bradley@mgccc.edu July-August 2018

Celebrating

40 YEARS of Success!

Success is leaving the world a little bit better through the positive impact you have on the lives of others by doing the things in life that you love. We are proud to have been a small stepping stone in the career paths of so many successful women through the past 40 years.

Katie Hinkel, Owner

DOWNTOWN OCEAN SPRINGS | 228-447-4249

www.gcwmultimedia.com

MARY GRAHAM President, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Dr. Graham leads Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, and, during her tenure, the institution has been named in the top 10% of community colleges in the nation and a Top 100 Associate Degree Producer. Graham also serves as chair of the American Association of Community Collegesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; board. STEPHANIE MAYO Manager, Salon Alexanders Stephanie Mayo manages Salon Alexanders, owned by Alexander Deeks, with passion, pride, and determination. From the front door to your next appointment, she always provides personal attention to customers and delivers the best customer service. She is much appreciated for her contributions that help make our business successful. MARY PHILLIPS Realtor, Keller Williams A home is not a home because of its room dimensions or the color of the walls. It is about how you feel when you walk through the front door. And the way you can instantly envision your life unfolding there. This is about more than real estate. It is about your life and your dreams. CHRISTIE FOUNTAIN Principal and Creative Director, Christie Fountain Advertising, Inc. Four-time Copywriter of the Year and twotime Art Director of the Year, Christie Fountain is passionate about producing results for her clients. She believes being exceptional starts in the heart. Love what you do. Strive for greatness. Over deliver. Give back. Be thankful. After that, success is bound to follow. 62

July-August 2018

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

LORRAINE MILLER Branch Manager, Peoples Bank Pass Christian branch Lorraine Miller has been employed with Peoples Bank for 17 years, Lorraine currently serves on several committees for the bank. She also has received the Outstanding Customer Service Award several times. Lorraine also assists with the Save for America school saving program in local schools. TAMMY MULLER Tammy Muller Allstate Agency There are basically two reasons we purchase insurance. We either owe someone or we love someone. At the Tammy Muller Allstate Agency we are here to help you protect your world with our knowledge, experience and gratitude for every client. DR. JAIME PARKER, LPC Gulf Coast Play Therapy With nearly a decade of experience, Dr. Jaime Parker, LPC, has supported clients in their journey through depression, anxiety, social difficulties, behavioral challenges, anger, grief, divorce, and parenting concerns. As a lifelong resident of the area, Jaime is invested in strengthening the foundation of our MS Gulf Coast. INFANTA WHITE, EDS Registered Play Therapist, Gulf Coast Play Therapy Infanta is the first Registered Play Therapist with the Association of Play Therapy on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and she is also a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. She specializes in providing mental health counseling services to children between the ages of 3 to 12 years old through the use of Play Therapy. SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

TO KNOW

your appointment is scheduled your appointment is s Celebrating our new ownership and talented stylists!

39 1308 college st.college | gulfport, 1308 st. ms gulfp polishedblowoutandbeautybar.com 22 228.206.5465 | 850.276.0048 polishedblowoutandbeautyba salon | spa

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Rachael Hollingsworth | Owner/Stylist FACEBOOK TWITTER P FACEBOOK T INSTAGRAM

Rachael Hollingsworth, Owner Stylist/Lash Specialist

your appointment is scheduled your appointment is s

39 1308 college st.college | gulfport, 1308 st. ms gulfp polishedblowoutandbeautybar.com 22 228.206.5465 | 850.276.0048 polishedblowoutandbeautyba youryour appointment appointment is schedule is sche

Erin Glisson, Danielle Hudson, Stylist/Wedding & Bridal Hair Stylist/MUA/Spray Tan

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youryour appointment appointm Paulina Nguyen, Stylist/Lash Specialist

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Just a few of the many

Successful Women at Ingalls Shipbuilding

HuntingtonIngalls.com

From top left: Terri Broome, Angela Pierre, Kari Wilkinson, Tira Woods, Hollie Caldwell, Damita Caldwell, Donna Gardner, Denise Jones, Meka Campbell, Bridgette Kirkpatrick, Dorothy Shaw, Glenna Hoyle, Nina Stinson, Kelli Manning, Gaylene McHale, Mary Taylor, Gwen Wilkerson, Julie Gresham, Susan Pulliam, Dianna Genton, Lisa Avery, Luella Farmer, Terri Eilerts, Kimberly Nastasi, Brenda Brown, Artensie Sabino July-August 2018 64

“We can not become what we want by remaining what we are.”

Dallas Kelly — More than just a Realtor

C • (228) 861-2026 O • (228) 896-4200 2318 Pass Rd., Suite 7A • Biloxi realestate@dallaskelly.com

Dallas Kelly Senior Vice President (228) 475-3411

As a modern day woman, we wear many hats. Wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend… We set expectations for ourselves that can sometimes feel out of reach. When you find the perfect balance with your personal roles, as well as exceed the goals of your professional career, that is success! www.gcwmultimedia.com

CHRISTENE BRICE Election Commissioner District 4 The youngest daughter of Mr. Milow Frierson and Mrs. Wrinnie Mae Frierson, Christene Brice is a native of Tupelo, Mississippi. She attended Siggers High School in Shannon, Mississippi, graduating in 1967. She graduated from Mississippi Valley State University, Itta Bena Mississippi with Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education in 1971. JENNY LEVENS Community Affairs Director, City of Long Beach Jenny Levens is the first Community Affairs Director for the City of Long Beach. She is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast Class of 2014, Leadership Mississippi Class of 2017 and True South Economic Development Class of 2017. Jenny was recognized in 2016 for the Top 10 Under 40 One Coast Awards. Jenny was named the Mississippi Business Journals Top 50 Under 40 for 2018. MELISSA LOGOS Owner, Foundations Professional Bra Fitting I traveled to New York to learn how to fit properly. Our team loves educating and helping ladies find the perfect foundations that works best for them. With anything in life, you have to start with a good foundation. JENNIFER WITTMANN Coastal Preserves Bureau Director, Mississippi Department of Marine Resources Jennifer Wittmann currently represents the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources on the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality Permit Board, which issues, modifies, denies, transfers, and revokes Mississippi permits and certifications administered under the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the Surface Mining Control Reclamation Act, state mining laws, and state water resource control laws. 66

July-August 2018

DAWN LIECK Store manager, Speedy Cash Before Speedy Cash, Dawn worked 20 years for Sam’s Club as general manager. She also owns Finally Free, LLC, an empowerment coaching firm. She serves in many capacities, including Board of Trustees, Lighthouse BPW; Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Chamber Champion; cochair, Success Women’s Conference; sponsor chair, MSGC Model Railroad Museum; and team leader, 2018 Women Build Habitat for Humanity. LEKEISHA COTTEN Award-winning Gospel Artist Award-winning Gospel Artist and passionate community organizer, LeKeisha Cotten, is founder of the Gulf Coast Gospel Music Awards, Executive Chair of Blessed Gyrls Rock Women’s Conference, member of Women’s Resource Center Development Committee, Mercy Housing Advisory Board, and Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Art Center’s Events Planning Committee. SHARON WILLIS SIGALAS Jackson county Youth Court Judge Sharon has proudly served Jackson County as Youth court Judge for 16 years. In that position, she strives to make a difference in the lives of children and families in Jackson County. As a lifelong resident of the Coast, she works hard to make this community a better place to live and work. AUDREY DUNCAN Owner, Ms. Audrey's Southern Kitchen and Catering Audrey Duncan affectionately known as “Ms. Audrey” has been in the restaurant and catering industry for over 30 years. As a child growing up in Natchez, MS, Ms. Audrey has fond memories of cooking with her mama, this ignited her passion and love of cooking. She has been recognized for her southern cooking and charitable contribution throughout the Gulf Coast region. SUCCESSFUL

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

WOMEN

TO KNOW

Broker Associate

Success, for me, has always been in providing a great quality of life for my family, for those who work with me, and to my community. I want to leave an enduring legacy of having made a difference in the world. 2408 14th Street | Gulfport, MS | Cell: 228-697-3714 Email: Holly.Gibbs@jcarterandco.com | Facebook: @BrokerGibbs | Instagram: brokergibbs www.gcwmultimedia.com 67

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Come see us today! -Mrs. Billie Comeaux, CEO, American Factory Direct Furniture

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Celebrating

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Laurie M. Lees, President/CEO

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228-385-9196 | NURSINGMGT.COM www.gcwmultimedia.com

69 Follow us on Facebook

RACHEL RATH Director of Administration, Hope Academy With business degrees from MSU and USM, Rachel puts to work her extensive marketing experience, management skills, endless energy and love of children every day. In just four years, Rachel has increased enrollment four-fold and turned the Coastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only independent academy into a top-tier college preparatory school where technology, creativity and diversity are stressed. CHRISTEN DUHE Associate Vice President of Institutional Relations, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Christen is responsible for directing all public relations efforts for MGCCC, and serves as the official spokesperson. She began working at MGCCC in 2012 as the first director of the Hospitality Resort Management Center. Before joining the college, she served as the first director of Coast Young Professionals. DR. ALLISON WALL Doctor of Oncology and Hematology, Medical Oncology Group, PA, Gulfport; Hematology Oncology Partners (HOPE Clinic), Gulfport and Biloxi From earning the Caring Physician Award at St. Louis University, where she received her fellowship in Hematology/ Oncology, to the many accolades received locally on the coast, Allison is famous for the hugs she gives to her patients every time she sees them. BRENDA BLOUNT Director of Development, Ohr-Okeefe Art Museum Blount holds a fashion design degree from The Art Institute of Atlanta and a bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in public relations from Tulane University. She has served as president of the Lighthouse Professional Business Women's Association and is past president of the Public Relations Association of MS, MS Beach chapter. 70

July-August 2018

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE, CPA, PWCAM President, SouthGroup Insurance Gulf Coast Angelyn Treutel Zeringue, CPA, PWCAM, is a Trusted Choice independent insurance agent and President of SouthGroup Insurance Gulf Coast and AST Solutions, Inc. Fan of Technology, Social Media, Insurance, Finance, Community Service, and Leadership. LORI HARPER Vice President of Supply Chain Management, Ingalls Shipbuilding (retired) Prior to her retirement, Lori served on the Aerospace Industries Association Supplier Management Council Executive Committee and on the University of South Alabama Mitchell School of Business Advisory Board. She currently serves on the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast Corporate Board of Directors and is board secretary. FELICE KELLY GILLUM Director, USO Gulf Coast Under Felice's leadership, the non-profit agency has expanded its outreach in the region and in 2016, USO Gulf Coast provided programs and services to more than 65,000 service members and their families. Felice was instrumental in opening a USO lounge in the Gulfport/Biloxi International Airport and oversaw construction of a state-of-the-art USO facility at the Naval Construction Battalion Center. STEPHANIE MATHES CEO, CLIMB Community Development Corporation Stephanie Mathes is the Chief Executive Officer for CLIMB Community Development Corporation. She has worked in the non-profit industry for over 20 year and has served on several community boards to help enrich the MS Gulf Coast. Stephanie and her husband Bruce live in Long Beach, MS. SUCCESSFUL

TO KNOW

Hi, my name is Brandi Stage and I own Brandi Stage Portraiture. I specialize in creating a magazine-style photoshoot experience for everyday women, drawing out your beauty and capturing it on camera.

SPECIAL OFFER

Every professional should have a dynamic image that reflects who they are and what they do to their prospective clients and community.

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Includes Wardrobe Consultation, Professional Hair and Makeup, Three Wardrobe Changes and Your Favorite Image. $345 (A $525 value). BRANDI STAGE PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER brandi stage portraiture 833 B. Hwy 90 Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 (by appointment only) P 228-284-1492 | www.brandistage.com www.gcwmultimedia.com 71

“I feel that my success is measured through societal impact. Whether it be my community, my company, or a client’s business, I’ve been successful if I’ve been able to leave it better than I found it.” Nikki Johns AGJ has been offering SUCCESSFUL technology solutions for businesses across the Gulf Coast for over 15 years. We strive to solve your IT challenges and create business efficiency through teamwork, technical proficiency, and outstanding customer service.

Nikki Johns, Business Development Manager

Contact Nikki Johns for a FREE technology assessment.

228.392.7133

systems & networks 14257 Dedeaux Rd. | Gulfport, MS 39503 www.agjsystems.com

It’s hurricane season on the Gulf Coast... what’s the plan for your business? AGJ Systems & Networks “Your IT Department” has you covered for backup disaster recovery and business continuity.

Call AGJ today for help with your disaster plan at 228.392.7133

systems & networks 14257 Dedeaux Rd. | Gulfport, MS 39503 www.agjsystems.com

July-August 2018

Celebrating 3 years of Success! “Success is doing what you love, surrounded by the people that you love!” ~ Lu Morgan

Preemie - Size 16 Boys & Girls Clothing Accessories - Gifts

1306 Government St., Suite 1 Ocean Springs

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

CELEBRATING A MEMORY — LIVING A DREAM Founding Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry was a dream and goal for Kinyatta Bennett and her husband. They both worked tirelessly to achieve it. With the untimely passing of Dr. Christopher Bennett in November 2014, Dr. Kinyatta Bennett continued to devote many hours toward achieving the dream that she and her husband shared. Through labors of love and hard work, Dr. Bennett opened Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry, dedicated to the memory of Dr. Christopher Bennett, DMD, in Gulfport, an area where Dr. Bennett has been practicing for 7 years. Dr. Bennett is a member of the National Dental Association, American Dental Association, Mississippi Dental Society and Mississippi Dental Association and is known for tending to her patients in a caring and compassionate manner and with a gentle touch.

We’re the SMILE MAKERS!

Kinyatta Bennett, D.M.D. General Dentist

Most Insurances Accepted • New Patients Welcome

Please call to schedule your appointment today: (228) 832-1000 13179 Three Rivers Road | Gulfport, MS 39503 Services offered include: Tooth Color Bonded Restorations, Crowns, Bridges, Amalgam Restorations, Dentures, Partials, Teeth Whitening, Extractions and more

www.gcwmultimedia.com

Women in

STEM

Dr. Julie Cwikla Be willing to fail

Dr. Julie Cwikla sees science and math as integral parts of everyday life. As Director of Creativity & Innovation in STEM, Office of the Vice President for Research at the University of Southern Mississippi, she works across departments and colleges as well as with regional partners in schools, nonprofits, industry and start-ups. “I enjoy blending math and science with the arts and writing – serving the whole person,” she said. “STEM is important for discoveries and inventions but without the humanities and effective communication skills, scientists cannot make a big impact.” Curiosity was a vital part of her childhood. “In school, I loved math and science because I knew – for the most

July-August 2018

part – when I was right and when it was done,” she said. She wasn’t an all-A student, but Cwikla didn’t let that discourage her. “Research shows girls sometimes leave the sciences just because of one low grade. They think they have to be perfect. Science isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being persistent,” she said. That rejection of perfection has carried into her adult life. “Everyone fails. I don’t get every grant I write, every new project idea doesn’t come to fruition, but every day I keep working and reading and trying to get better,” she said. She encourages adults to stop perpetrating the myth that math and science are strictly for boys. “And for young women con-

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sidering a STEM career, don’t listen to the naysayers. They will find you, but don’t let them get to you. Find men and women who will mentor you, champion you, and challenge you to be your best,” she said.

Celebrating 10 years of Success!

Come visit our new location

Ashley Fillingame-Seymer

Jeanne Brackin

Custom wreaths and door decor, interior design services, home decor, decorating for all holidays & special occasions

360 Courthouse Rd. Suite A | Gulfport, MS | 228-209-9976 www.gcwmultimedia.com 75

â&#x20AC;&#x153;For me, success is being able to provide a great quality of life for my family, for those who work for me and my community.â&#x20AC;?

Jamie Rhodes, Owner

Specializing in Custom Jeeps 6104 Washington Ave | Ocean Springs, MS 39564 | 228-875-CARS (2277) July-August 2018 76

Multi Million Dollar Producers

Gena Powell (228) 861-1025

Christine Hudson (228 ) 218-9911

t Keller Williams Our Mission is to build careers worth having, businesses worth owning, lives worth living, experiences worth giving, and legacies worth leaving.Christine, Gena ,Nicole & Julie have certainly managed to do that over the course of their combined 30+ years in the Real Estate industry here on the Gulf Coast. While it can be difficult to maintain a work/life balance with their hectic schedule and demands of both family and clients, these women have found that the key to being successful is “managing expectations” and delivering on the promises. “You have to do what you say you are going to”, says Christine Hudson, “in my many years of experience, I have found that clients are most disappointed when agents don’t follow through with what they promised. That is why I always make sure to

Nicole Sanchez (228) 243-1222

Julie Groue Hebert (228) 697-1173

deliver on what I say, and most importantly, never ‘over promise’ just to keep a client happy because in the end they will be more disappointed than if you were honest from the beginning.” This managing of expectations has helped these women build their careers, have a long list of satisfied clients and generate millions in sales at Keller Williams. This “win-win” concept is at the heart of what they do. “One of the things we stress here at Keller Williams is creating ‘clients for life’. Its not about making the next sale, but rather helping our clients during what is often a very stressful, exciting time. Knowing that we have helped them achieve their goal of home ownership, transition to a new life, or maybe achieve their investment goals, makes this a definitely a career worth having.”

Brokered by Arlene Perkins (228) 275-7500

www.gcwmultimedia.com

GULF COAST EMERGENCY VETERINARY HOSPITAL AND BEACH VIEW VETERINARY HOSPITAL Dr. Jennifer Sutton, along with her husband, Dr. Jeff Sutton, are the owners of Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital, and more recently, Beach View Veterinary Hospital, which are both located in Biloxi, MS. She grew up along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and is a graduate of St. John High School, Millsaps College, and in 1998, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Jennifer started her career in a small animal and exotic hospital located in a suburb of Cincinnati, Ohio. The practice had great mentors and offered progressive, quality and cutting-edge care while staying in tune with the community around them. She missed the coast, however, and in 2003 she decided to come back home with her husband to open her open practice. The coastal community, however, already contained the established veterinary practices of both a high school classmate and a veterinary school classmate. Knowing that she did not want to compete with their businesses, but also knowing that she wanted to own her own business and maintain the same level of care that she had grown accustomed too, they established Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital in July, 2003. 78

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The fact that their clinic is located just off I-10 exit #41the Woolmarket Exit - is by design. Knowing that they wanted to serve the entire coast community and that there are 80 miles of I-10 along the entire Mississippi Gulf Coast, they placed their practice as closely as they could to the half-way point. Almost 14 years later, their practice has cared for more than 39,000 families and 54,000 pets! Some of these pets have visited the emergency hospital more than once, and so it is estimated that there have been more than 100.000 sick or injured animals that have passed through their doors since they opened! Care of animals in not just limited to dogs and cats â&#x20AC;&#x201D; wildlife is often dropped off to the hospital to be treated prior to being transferred to several area wildlife rehabilitators and care is also offered to animals involved in motor vehicle accidents with their humans, after house fires, and injured strays that are picked up after hours by animal control officers and law enforcement. Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital prides itself in truly offering unparalleled care, compassion and concern in the most technologically advanced facility possible.

JENNIFER LEWANDO SUTTON, DVM The hospital includes an on-site blood and plasma bank, complete in-house laboratory equipment, ultrasound, digital radiographs, completely enclosed oxygen cages, companion therapeutic lasers and comprehensive monitoring equipment. The level of care, equipment, medical and surgical procedures performed in the hospital truly reflects human standards. Appreciating that animals are not just pets, but also beloved members of the family, Dr. Jennifer and Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital have furthered their facility accreditations to include being American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) certified, and more recently American Association of Feline Practitioner (AAFP) Cat Friendly Gold Level Certified and Fear Free Certified. AAHA reflects an on-site accreditation process that measures more than 900 standards of veterinary excellence. Cat Friendly and Fear Free Certifications are designed to reduce the stress of veterinary visits, improve the quality of care provided, and support our team to consider the distinct needs of companion animals. Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital has the pleasure of serving the urgent, critical and emergency needs for the clients of more than 60 veterinary facilities and more than 100 veterinarians along the Mississippi and Alabama Gulf Coasts. They also are recognized for their facility and mentorship abilities as they serve as an externship site for students in Veterinary Technician Certification and Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine Programs for a number of universities.

In addition to excelling in her practice, Dr. Jennifer is well entrenched in her community. Following Hurricane Katrina, in which she lost her home while seven months pregnant with twin girls, Dr. Jennifer felt a true calling to give back to others after she witnessed so many supporting her in the days and weeks following the storm. As a result, she has become a passionate advocate for underserved and underprivileged populations in the community in which she lives and works. From serving as the Interim Executive Director of the Hancock County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program in 2013, to serving on several boards including Goodwill/Goodworks, the Open Doors Homeless Coalition, Kairos Outside Prison Ministry and the Hancock County Substance Abuse Task Force, she will quickly tell you that although she loves serving animals, she equally loves serving their people! She also has a trained Search and Rescue canine, Belle, and together they have presented a program “Hug A Tree and Survive” program to more than 3000 school aged children to teach them what to do if they are ever lost in the woods. Perhaps one of her most favorite activities is volunteering with others in the Project Homeless Connect and vaccinating the animals of the homeless population the week before Thanksgiving each year. Last year, after the calling to extend the same level of care and compassion to healthy pets too, Dr. Jennifer and Dr. Jeff acquired Beach View Veterinary Hospital from a retiring veterinarian. It is located on Porter Avenue, just north of the Biloxi light house and behind the Biloxi Visitor’s Center. She has thoroughly enjoyed getting to care for and know pets and their people not just on their “worst day ever” at the ER, but also at Beach View! It is a full-service companion and exotic animal hospital and features on-site laboratory equipment, digital traditional and dental x-rays, companion therapeutic lasers and medications, anesthetics and monitoring equipment that reflects human medical standards, as well. Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency re-located in 2013 to its present location, just south of I-10 at Exit 41, which is also the Woolmarket Exit. It is open and fully staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is ready to help in any urgent care situation. There is no appointment necessary. Beach View is located on Porter Ave. and is open more traditional veterinary hours, Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Appointments are recommended. Whether at Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital, at Beach View Veterinary Hospital, or out in the community, Dr. Jennifer looks forward to meeting you and your furry companions soon!

by Sheryl Egan-Olaivar, OTR/L

What is success?

uccess is different for everyone. Many people imagine they’ll be successful with their ideal job, dream house, perfect car or with fortune and fame. Success has no measurement, and people rarely “feel” successful after gaining power or possessions. In fact, many people are disappointed when they realize that something they wanted for so long does not actually make them feel successful. For others, success could mean having time and health on weekends to enjoy a fishing camp surrounded by loved ones. It could be to volunteer or to invent a product or service that helps others. Just as we are all different, so is success! While in occupational therapy school, I learned that humans require meaningful activity and a sense of purpose to feel fulfilled, with a balance of work, play, rest and physical, spiritual and emotional activity. Years ago, at a self-development course that inspired participants to become successful, those who “succeeded” the most reported feeling lonely. They had pushed all other needs aside and focused only on becoming successful. Success toward a goal does require dedication and work. However, the key to true success is knowing what you’re seeking and doing so with balance. Is the ladder you’re climbing taking you to where you really want to go? Be honest with yourself; make quiet time alone to jot down how you see your successful self. Be sure to make this list for yourself, not as you imagine others want it to be. In “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People,” Stephen Covey offers this advice: “If you carefully consider what you want to be said about you in the funeral experience, you will find your definition of success.” Imagine how you want to be remembered, how you want your life 80

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celebrated, what is truly important, what lifestyle you want and who you want to be. Write these goals and the steps required. Do you need to study? To read books/journals? To find a mentor or group? Success requires being clear about what you want and a solid plan with realistic, measurable short- and long-term goals. Success is a journey and not a destination, shaped by all the stages and roles in life. Give yourself credit for all you have learned and the success you’ve already achieved. When my children were young, this lovely quote by Forest Witcraft shaped my parenting goals: “A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove... but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.” Now, with my children grown, there are new goals for fulfillment and success. Lastly, striving for success takes bravery. Inevitably there will be times that the best plans fail. JK Rowling reminds us, “Failure is important. We speak about success all the time. It is the ability to resist failure or use failure that often leads to greater success. I’ve met people who don’t want to try for fear of failing.” To find victory in our success, may we be brave like Thomas Edison: “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.” Sheryl Egan-Olaivar is an occupational therapist and yoga teacher with more than 30 years of experience in health care.

SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

Gulf Coast Play Therapy

DR. JAIME PARKER,

LPC

INFANTA WHITE

EDS – PLAY THERAPY, MED, LPC, NCC, REGISTERED PLAY THERAPIST

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT PLAY THERAPY? You can visit the “What is Play Therapy?” section at Gulf Coast Play Therapy & Family Services’ website, or visit the Association for Play Therapy’s website at www.a4pt.org

DR. JAIME PARKER, LPC

228-282-0604 | drparker@gcplaytherapy.com With nearly a decade of experience, Dr. Jaime Parker, LPC, has supported clients in their journey through depression, anxiety, social difficulties, adjustment to life’s stress, behavioral challenges, anger, grief, divorce, and parenting concerns. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Millsaps College, a Master’s degree in Counseling from William Carey University, and a doctorate in Counselor Education from the University of New Orleans. Jaime has practiced on military bases, in schools, in private clinics, and in her private practice. Additionally, she serves in the role of adjunct instructor at William Carey University in graduate courses. Jaime’s specialty is Play Therapy with more than 500 hours of play therapy experience and 150 hours of play therapy education. She is proud to offer services to clients of all ages at her private practice. As a life-long resident of the area, wife, and mother, Jaime is invested in strengthening the foundation of our MS Gulf Coast.

INFANTA WHITE

EdS – Play Therapy, MEd, LPC, NCC, Registered Play Therapist 228-224-2258 | icplaytherapy@gulfcoastrpt.com Since Infanta White was a grade-school student at St. James Catholic Elementary School in Gulfport, she has known that she wanted to help children. Through some guidance and research, Infanta eventually found what would become her passion – Play Therapy. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology with a theme in Child Clinical Psychology from Mississippi State University, a Master’s degree in Counselor Education – Professional Mental Health Counseling from the University of Mississippi, and a Specialist degree specifically in Play Therapy from the University of Mississippi. All of her Play Therapy training was completed at the Child Advocacy and Play Therapy Institute (CAPTI) in Oxford, MS. Infanta is the first Registered Play Therapist with the Association for Play Therapy on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and she is also a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. She specializes in providing mental health counseling services to children between the ages of 3 to 12 years old through the use of Play Therapy.

370 COURTHOUSE RD. | SUITE 102 | GULFPORT, MS 39507

WWW.GCPLAYTHERAPY.COM www.gcwmultimedia.com 81

Melissa has grown Bijoubel 10 times its original size in just 5 years. Her business philosophy is offer comfort + quality + styling = success.

A LITTLE BLING BY THE BAY

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

There are basically two reasons we purchase insurance. We either owe someone or we love someone. At the Tammy Muller Allstate Agency we are here to help you protect your world with our knowledge, experience and gratitude for every client.

Tammy Muller Agency 228-396-9127 Office Hours Monday - Friday 8:30am - 5:30pm Saturday 10:00am - 2:00pm allstate.com tammy.muller@allstate.com 1-800-Allstate Auto, Home, Business, Life 82

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I am very proud to be a part of a third generation company. It has become my passionâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;helping my customers design their outdoor oasis. Working with color texture and style from simple and classic to eccentric.

Jill Compton, Director of Operations

228-864-4220 1249 Pass Road | Gulfport, MS 39501 www.comptonandsonappliance.com

www.gcwmultimedia.com

Claudia Bjork A second chance brings personal satisfaction

At 28, Claudia Bjork traded a career in sales for her future as a civil engineer. As R&D engineer at Ingalls Shipbuilding, a division of Huntington Ingalls, Bjork researches various opportunities to reduce cost by improving shipbuilding processes. Bjork’s father and grandfather both were involved with the engineering field and worked for Ingalls, but growing up, she wasn’t pressured toward that path. She did well in physics and math, and she received praise for her drive as well as being detail-oriented, analytical and systematic in her sales career. In 2010, she left her sales job and enrolled at the University of South

Alabama in the civil engineering program. Years before, she had dropped out of college. Now, she was a single mother and college student. She also had a better understanding of who Claudia Bjork is. “Ultimately, I chose civil engineering because of me,” she said. “By 28, I knew my capabilities and I knew engineering would be a field of work where I could not only find pride in what I do, but also determine my own path to success. It is a path that would have many obstacles and would be an uphill fight, but that is what makes it worth it. To know that I played a significant role in fixing a real-world problem is one of the best feelings ever.” Today, she credits family and friends as well as her own work ethic for her success. She also says mentors

Shaya Heckman Serving her country as an oceanographer

As a little girl living in Hawaii, Shaya Heckman was drawn to the ocean and wanted to study it. Her father, a now-retired U.S. Army general, served three tours on Oahu for a total of nine years, and the family frequently enjoyed the beach. “I was fascinated by the ocean, its vastness and its many unknowns. This intrigue is what led me to become an oceanographer,” she said. Today, she is a program analyst for the Naval Oceanographic (NAVO) Plans, Programs and Requirements Department, Plans and Program Assessment Group at Stennis Space Center. The daughter of an Air Force nurse 84

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and an Army Air Defense officer, she grew up with three sisters and is the mother of two little girls. “I have been surrounded by girls and women my entire life and my parents instilled in me from a very young age the importance of working hard and knowing that I could do and be anything. I wanted to be a scientist, so that is what I became through my schooling. It has been such a rewarding career with a broad spectrum of studies, from oil exploration to safety of navigation for submarines. Working for the Navy, I know that everything I do impacts the warfighter, and I am proud to serve our country as a federal employee,” she said. Her favorite Bible verse helps

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have been crucial along the way, and now she serves as a mentor to others. “You are never too old to start over and work towards accomplishing your dreams,” Bjork said.

Heckman stay focused in difficult times: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Caring for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;wholeâ&#x20AC;? woman at every age, stage and occasion of her life!

r. Kao hails from Greenville, South Carolina in the foothills of Appalachia. She then made her way across the state to attend college at the University of South Carolina, concentrating in Medical Humanities and Public Health. This led to medical school at the Medical University of SC in coastal Charleston. She then pursued training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Tulane in New Orleans, LA. There, she met her husband who also works at Tulane as a professor. After residency, she went to work in Gulfport, MS. She is board eligible with the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Her clinical interests include office and minimally invasive gynecologic procedures, abnormal menstrual bleeding, contraception, treatment for abnormal pap smears, hormonal therapy.

NOW ACCEPTING PATIENTS. Call TODAY for an appointment!

Elaine Kao, MD 14231 Seaway Road, Suite 3003 Gulfport, MS 39503 www.mspwh.com

228.206.1905 www.gcwmultimedia.com

M e a t l h P g i r ep R t

ver 5 years ago, Michele started managing Bayou View Fitness, the gym on Cowan Rd. in Gulfport that she and her husband Joff own together. Throughout that time, dozens of customers were asking what they should be eating to lose weight or to improve

their performance or perhaps to bulk up and to just have a healthy lifestyle. At this point, Michele took it upon herself to do the research to come up with a better alternative than most other nutritional options. She enlisted the help of their great friend Rob Stinson of Salute Restaurant and with the help of both Rob and her husband she decided to launch Eat Right Meal Prep. From the very beginning, she knew they were on to something very successful. Exceeding every possible sales goal and outstripping their capacity to manufacture so quickly she sought ways to increase the volume. During this short time, she has already seen numerous success stories and sees it impacting peoples lives in such a positive way. Her company is now the leading Mississippi Meal Prep Company and the future is limitless.

Call today at 228-456-3677 or visit us at www.EatRightMealPrep.com 86

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ALESIA STEELE • 30 + years in Salon Industry • Indiana, Louisiana, Texas, Michigan, and Mississippi as well as many hair shows around the world. • Fantastic Sams is growing much like the coast with our family values policy.

Open 7 Days a Week

Open 7 days a week Franchisee's Location 123 Main St. Anytown, VA (123) 456-7890

• Another 10 to 20 years Alesia and her staff hopes to serve all who enters for salon services. • Rocking out the coast with what not to wear in your hair on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. • World-renowned platform Artist Alesia Steele and savvy Business partner Andrew Penko.

Franchisee's Location 123 Main St. Anytown, VA

FANTASTIC SAMS (123) 456-7890 BILOXI Location Franchisee's

2370 Pass Road 123 Main| St.228-207-0751 Anytown, VA (123) 456-7890

Franchisee's Location

FANTASTIC SAMS OCEAN SPRINGS

1223 Bienvillle Blvd. | 228-447-3201 www.gcwmultimedia.com

Jenny Nicaud, Attorney She specializes in Professional Liability, Insurance Risk Management, Construction, Restaurant & Hospitality Business Litigation and Family Law at Copeland Cook Taylor and Bush. Jenny has worked in Federal Courts covering Mississippi and Louisiana for 30 years. My hobby is interior design.

She is a talented Interior Designer. Her latest project is The Hotel Pass Christian, a beautiful ten room boutique hotel overlooking the harbor in Pass Christian. Some of her projects include: Bacchus Restaurants in Biloxi and Oxford Charred in Ocean Springs and Maddison And Fill-Up with Billups located in Biloxi and Oxford 88

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SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

Dr. April Ulmer aka “The Tummy Dr.”, is a Board Certified Pediatric Gastroenterologist who presently practices on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. Dr. Ulmer is a native Mississippian who received her medical training at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and her post-graduate training at prestigious medical centers along the East Coast in cities including Washington, DC; Danville, Pennsylvania; and Buffalo, New York before ultimately returning to Mississippi to practice. In addition to being a dedicated physician, she is a loving and committed wife and mother to her 2 little girls. Dr. Ulmer describes herself as a physician who practices the art of “clinical medicine” with a “common sense” approach. She strives every day to treat each child and family as unique, and in a way that cares for and nurtures the “whole” child. Dr. Ulmer states, “I’m a mom, so when I hear concerns from the parents in my medical practice, I ‘get’ it. As parents, we work to ensure that our children have access to the best of everything, and that should extend to their medical care. As a pediatric gastroenterologist, my goal is to be the parents’ partner in the care of their children, and it’s Kids and Tummies’ mission to provide the best Pediatric GI care available.”

Serving the . oast entire Gulf C ekly e Now with biw in ts appointmen Wiggins!

401 Cowan Road, Suite B Gulfport, MS 228-222-4072 www.kidsandtummies.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

Are you really “fine”? My passion is sharing my story of leaving a 20-year marriage and a six- figure job in order to live a happy life for MYSELF. I want to empower women and help them understand that it is possible to make life-changing decisions at any age. Life is not set in stone as it is in the present. I speak and coach to teach women that they do not have to settle with their life if they’re not happy just to ensure everyone around them is happy. I call it “Crossing that “fine” line, where we tell everyone we’re fine when in all actuality some of us are about as far from fine as fine can be. However, we put up the pretense that we are because we “should be happy with all we have.” Sometimes everything we have is just not enough for our hearts, souls and dreams! I give women the tools it takes to make decisions, make changes, and be their best self — unapologetically putting themselves first vs. spending all of their time making other’s lives better than what they’d make it for themselves. Stop settling for that which does not make you extremely happy! If you think, “There’s got to be more than this,” don’t feel guilty for the thought. Let’s find it! 90

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Set up a consultation now or request info on a speaking engagement.

finally FREE,llc Dawn Lieck Finallyfree1llc@gmail.com

18 YEARS OF SUCCESS AT WOMAN’S CLINIC

Vaginal Rejuvenation Treatments Provided

Ideal Protein Program and Foods. Available at our 2 Locations! Biloxi & Gulfport

Shahira Hanna, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. Alisha H. Ware, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

VAMPIRE FACIAL All-natural procedure

uses your own platelet-rich plasma

IncontiLase laser treatment available for stress urinary incontinence Laser vaginal rejuvenation for pre- and post-menopausal women

$200 OFF VAGINAL REJUVENATION Exp. 8/31/18

Joanna M. Trus, M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

WOMAN’S CLINIC

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. • KEITH G. GOODFELLOW, 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.

WWW.WOMANSCLINICPA.NETwww.gcwmultimedia.com

by Dr. Stephanie Barnes

How to get yourself moving when life is not going as planned — but is going as it should

We often face difficulties in our lives. We have the best made plans, goals and deadlines, but things don’t go as planned. But life has a way of flipping over the proverbial apple cart. People don’t do as expected. Marriages don’t last. Kids don’t act as if we’ve taught them any home training. Opportunities don’t pan out. We lose jobs and relationships that we thought we’d have forever. Good things may come to those who wait, but waiting can make you downright sad! It can be frustrating and discouraging as you wait for your ship to come in. This can cause you to lose focus and become distracted from making the progress that you desire. When this happens, you need to ask yourself five powerful questions to generate the action you need to get yourself going and lift the funk that may be dragging you down. WHAT CAN I CONTROL? There are many external factors that affect our lives. Although the universe conspires in our favor, it does act at our will. While you may be able to exert your influence, you can’t control other people or situations. It is important to focus on what you can control. This can not only give you a realistic view of what you can do but can empower you to focus on what you can do. Take action on what’s in your control. Release responsibility for what – and who – you cannot control. This frees up your mind space, energy and schedule to invest in things that bring you joy. WHAT CAN I DO NOW? While you may not be able to anything about what’s plaguing you, you can shift your focus elsewhere. Instead of hurrying up and waiting, you can take advantage of the time to create. It takes the time it takes. You can’t rush the process. Just as you cannot rush the seasons in nature, you can’t rush the seasons in your life. What you can do is focus on what you can do now, in this season.

personal development. Begin cultivating new relationships that will yield new experiences. There really is no such thing as downtime. There is the time that you have to do the things that you need and want to do to position yourself for success. You should have a downtime plan and shift your focus to your list of activities that position you for what’s next. WHAT DO I NEED TO DO? There may be things that you want to do right now that are keeping you from doing what you need to do. It is important to prioritize, reprioritize, and maximize the time that you have. Sometimes we can be so focused on the future event we are waiting on that we fail to devote time to the present demands. Distract yourself by using the time to take care of necessary tasks that have been put on the back burner. You’ll relieve yourself of the stress of worrying about them when your business breakthrough does happen. Stephanie D. Barnes is an attorney, author, speaker and career strategist. She can be reached at stephanie@ drstephaniedbarnes.com or visit www.drstephaniedbarnes.com.

WHAT DO I WANT TO DO REGARDLESS OF MY CIRCUMSTANCES THAT HAS AN ROI? While you may be in limbo, you really are not. This is really your ramp up time. Begin looking for the next adventure in your life. Get caught up on your reading and 92

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SUCCESS Showcase sponsored by

To read more about how to get yourself moving, visit gcwmultimedia.com.

Caregiving can be stressful, especially for family members caring for their loved ones. Our services offer solutions to bring you peace of mind. Senior Home Care, Respite Care, Transition Care. We Build Relationships.

Ada Cauley Owner/Director

Call Ada today 228.314.3110 www.gcwmultimedia.com

SO YOU KNOW TOP 50 UNDER 40 HIGHLIGHTS FOUR GULF COAST WOMEN

Mississippi Business Journal’s 26th Annual Top 50 Under 40 awards recognized some of Mississippi’s best and brightest up-and-coming business leaders. Four of those recipients honored were Gulf Coast leaders: Melissa Russo, Christen Duhé, Jenny Levens, and Megan Burkes. Melissa Russo is Vice President of Communications, Public Relations and Member Services for Coast Electric Power Association, where she has been for 15 years. She shared, “The award is about service to our communities, something that I am very passionate about. I have served on many different boards and participated in numerous leadership activities throughout my career. I enjoy being a part of making a difference in the community in which I

OLA’S ALL-GIRLS ROBOTICS TEAM MAKES MANY FIRSTS

Alpha Omega, the Our Lady Academy (OLA) Robotics Team, recently competed in their first competition at The Bayou Regional FIRST Robotics Competition in Kenner, LA, and brought home the “Rookie Inspiration Award.” We spoke with the team’s mentor, OLA Science Teacher, Julie Cranford, about their start and success. “Our team started in the fall of 2017. 94

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work and live.” Christen Duhé is the Associate Vice President of Institutional Advancement for Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. After a 10-year career in Public Relations, Christen reflected back on thinking, “One day, maybe I’ll get that.” And now, having achieved this honor, she shared, “winning the award was great but seeing how far everyone has come, it’s such an awesome feeling.” Jenny Levens, the Director of Community Affairs for the City of Long Beach, added to this sentiment, “I was truly honored and humbled to stand next to a great group of talented ladies from the Mississippi Gulf Coast. They are more than just peers to me, they are friends.” Levens explained, “The four of us have worked with each other the last five years in some capacity from the MS Gulf Coast Chamber, Lynn Meadows Discovery Center, and Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport and many other groups along the coast.” Megan Burkes is The USM Foundation Associate Director of Public RelaA transfer student, Savannah Templeton, came from Gulfport High School, where she was an active member of that (FIRST Robotics) team. Since we did not have a team, she was instrumental in starting the program at OLA.” Though Templeton did not continue with the team and remained on Gulfport High School’s team, herself and other FIRST robotics teams in the area helped in the OLA startup. OLA’s robotics winning team include, Emily Busby, now a graduate who will study electrical engineering in college, Kennedy Hertz, Lillie Lawhead, Alma Hearin, Allison Lyons and Sofia Schuyler. Led by Julie Cranford, these six members comprise Mississippi’s only all-girls robotics team in the entire state. It was Julie Cranford’s interest in getting young girls involved in STEM that inspired her to volunteer for the role. “The team needed a teacher mentor, and I decided to help them out until they could find a robotics mentor. I

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(left to right) Melissa Russo, Jenny Levens, Megan Burkes, Christen Duhé

tions and Donor Programs. Working in the field of Public Relations for 15 years, 5 of which were at USM, Burkes also reflected, “To be amongst such a dynamic group of leaders, and to have been nominated by a colleague, meant so much to me. I love what I do, so this award is like an exclamation point at the end of a delightful sentence.” have not been involved with this type of program before, but knew it was a great opportunity for the girls.” Cranford attributes their growth to the help of many key contributors, “We had so many sponsors who helped fund our new program. And the invaluable aid of several mentors.” When asked about the importance of mentorship, Cranford shared, “We have a very small group of dynamic women who put in many hours working on this robot. None of them had any experience in using tools, or programming. We could not have done this without the mentors, who taught them so much. They learned wiring, programming, metal and woodworking.” This is the just start for OLA’s robotics team. Confident in their abilities, Julie Cranford know they will continue to succeed, “I think their willingness to work together, try anything new, and move out of their comfort zone is their key to success.”

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Divide and conquer

Just because someone is a part of your company doesn’t mean that you should stick with them the entire event. Networking is about building connections and drawing new people into your network. Instead, split the room so your business has more opportunities to connect with more people.

}

Don’t be that person who comes around only when you need something and rarely asks how you can help others. Networking is a two-way street, so give, give, give. Don’t make it all about you, you, you. Actively listening will pay off in the long run.

Follow-up with relationships

After introducing yourself to someone whom you consider a potential partner or mentor, schedule time on your calendar to make two follow-ups with them. Failing to keep in touch or reaching out only when you need something will leave you out in the cold.

}

Don't be a card pusher

We’ve all done it. The morning after an event, you have a promotional bag full of business cards with no clue of who each person is or how they actually fit into your network. Get to know the person first, gauge if there’s a connection and then end the conversation by offering your card. “Your business card is only as powerful as the impression you leave behind.” — Diane Gottsman

Work the room

Speak with multiple people throughout the event. Don’t hold people hostage and avoid rambling. It’s easy to find yourself getting stuck in one clique of people you already know. However, your goal is to meet new people, so get out of your comfort zone and go mingle.

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}

Show genuine interest

July-August 2018

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Dress for

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Christina May, founder of Illumine8 Marketing & PR: “In general, it’s easier to define what isn’t appropriate than what is. Jeans are fine, but distressed jeans are not. Skirts are fine, but shorts can be questionable — they need to be an appropriate length. The advice I give is if you have to ask if something is appropriate, it probably isn’t. Business casual clothing doesn’t have to be a huge departure from your regular wardrobe. Cute tops can be paired with blazers for a work look, as an example.”

Anna Wood, career coach and founder of Brains Over Blonde:

“

When in doubt, dress business casual.

It’s much better to show up overdressed than underdressed. I always keep a blazer with me in my car or bag. If you have a blazer with you at all times, you’re always ready. If you run into a VIP or get a last minute invite to an event, just pop on the blazer, and it will instantly up your game. Business casual means looking professional and polished while still

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being comfortable and relaxed and incorporating your own sense of style. And accessories are encouraged to show your personality!”

Colleen Babul, stylist operations manager for Snap+Style Business: “My best advice is to take cues from another well-respected woman in your office who is more senior to see how she dresses on business casual days. A good rule of thumb, if you are not sure, is to start by pairing something casual with a more traditional piece. For example, pair jeans with a blouse and a blazer or a t-shirt with dress pants and pumps. This creates a nice balance and is still polished and professional.”

Judith Samson, attorney and founder of Bra Bridge: “Women shouldn’t have to look like men to appear businesslike. I recommend always having a few pairs of nice-fitting pants that are not jeans and mixing those up with different tops and blouses featuring prints. Because prints generally have multiple colors, it makes it easy to combine colors and jewelry. With regard to shoes, the open-toed variety can still fit into the

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business-casual category, as long as they have an overall dressier look (and your toes are well manicured). Anything bordering on flip-flops, slip-ons, or on-the-go walking sandals is still a no-no.”

Janet Lamwatthananon, career advice expert for ZipRecruiter: “You want to look polished but not stuffy. Advertising, communications, media, and technology are four industries where many, if not most, employees rock business casual attire every day. In terms of what to look for, dark jeans (unripped and properly fitted, of course!) and knee-length skirts are my go-to bases. Tops should also fit well and provide enough coverage. You can never go wrong with a neutral top — or if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, put on a blouse that’s a pop of color.” What’s your favorite business casual ensemble? Share it on social using hashtag #iamgcw and tag us @iamgcw!

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Women Build 2018 Scores Big with $150,000 Raised By Lindsay Freise Avery Resource Development Director, Habitat MS Gulf Coast As we wrap up Women Build 2018, we share our appreciation for the more than 350 volunteers who, through their efforts and actions, helped make the construction of two homes — one in Ocean Springs and one in Gulfport — possible. It was truly a collective effort led by a strong Leadership Team of ladies from Harrison & Jackson Counties, with Brenda Simkins and Jessica McNeel co-chairing the Jackson County build. Navigator Credit Union, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Scarlet Pearl Casino, Boomtown Casino, Chancellor Incorporated, and other local companies signed on for sponsorships, and several other Gulf Coast corporations sponsored their companies’ participation in the fundraiser. As we tally the total and wait for the remaining fundraising dollars to arrive, we are excited to say we are projecting to exceed $150,000! While Habitat for Humanity of the Mississippi Gulf Coast is in the final stages of Women Build, there is still work to be done. Our need for volunteers and funding doesn’t end here. Construction will continue on these homes and families will work with our financial coaches 104

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to prepare for the fiscal responsibility of homeownership. When a family moves in to a quality, affordable, safe home, it is a celebration not just for the family, but also for the hundreds of fundraisers, volunteers, and donors who helped make it possible. It’s truly a win for the entire community. For those of you who were not able to participate this year, don’t worry, there’s always next year! Please call 228-678-9100 to reserve your spot for 2019.

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JUDGE SHARON WILLIS SIGALAS

JACKSON COUNTY YOUTH COURT “Serving Families and Children of Jackson County since 2003”

udge Sharon Willis Sigalas has served Jackson County as Youth Court Judge for 16 years. In that position she has had the privilege to serve on numerous task forces

and committees. Under her leadership, the Jackson County Youth Court was recently selected to receive a grant to begin a pilot program for a team approach to parent representation. The program consists of not only a parent attorney, but also a licensed social worker that serves as program manager. Another program which assists Judge Sigalas at the Youth Court is CASA. Jackson County has the oldest and largest Court Appointed Special Advocates program in Mississippi. She works closely with CASA to train new volunteers several times a year. Two other programs at the Youth Court are the Heartbeat Program and Fostering Futures Program. Both programs are for children currently in foster care that meet certain criteria. The goal of the Heartbeat Program is to help families and children achieve permanency in a timely manner. The Fostering Futures Program works to help children between the ages of 14-20 reach milestones to assist them in becoming productive members of their communities. The Youth Court recently hosted the first Reunification Celebration in Mississippi at the Pascagoula Senior Citizen Center. Judge Sigalas hosted six recently reunified families, their relatives, state officials, CASA volunteers, and Child Protection Workers to a night filled with good food, great entertainment and speakers who praised these families for their hard work to regain custody of their children. Judge Sigalas and her staff are already planning for next year’s celebration to be bigger and better. It is evident to most, that Judge Sigalas and her staff have made a difference in the lives of families that come before the Court. It is obvious that Judge Sigalas’ passion and goal is to touch others during their time of need and to provide fair and compassionate leadership in her role as Youth Court Judge. Thank you Judge Sharon Willis Sigalas for making a difference for families and children of Jackson County. 106

July-August 2018

Women of Achievement

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NOMINATIONS FOR WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT ARE NOW OPEN. Please email lighthousebpw.biloxi@gmail.com to nominate or self-nominate. Seven Professional Career Categories: Corporate, Education, Entrepreneur, Government & Military, Medical, Nonprofit and Young Careerist (ages 21-34) Tickets $25 | Sponsorships are available. Please email lighthousebpw.biloxi@gmail.com for more information.

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Empowering men and women through coaching

Kim Gaughf “Coaching is my passion. There has never been a job I’ve felt more suited for and no other results as rewarding, as those that I help my clients achieve.” Kim Gaughf has always been a Coach at heart. She’s been a manager, a corporate trainer, and mentor for most of her professional life. She built relationships and bonds with those whose lives she impacted. It was a natural evolution, a seamless transition in 2017, when she chose to build a business around “life coaching”.

What exactly is a Life Coach? Simply stated, Kim describes it as a facilitator, a motivator, an accountability partner; one who helps you get from where you are, to where you want to be. Kim specializes in Relationship Coaching. Most recently, she supported a client who sought to leave a physically and emotionally abusive marriage; guiding and supporting her as she re-built the inner strength necessary to exit her horrific circumstances. Today, that client is newly divorced, and enjoying freedom and peace of mind. Through her work with Kim’s coaching program, she’s learned how to set new boundaries for those she welcomes into her life, and has even met someone new! Another client with outstanding results was a young lady who struggled with clutter; physical and emotional. After a string of failed relationship attempts, she had, unconsciously, closed herself off from the outside world. This client surrounded herself with material things, creating clutter in her unkempt home, surrendering to her plight. She’d decided a way to prevent being hurt was to simply shut people out. Though quite effective, this method was completely contradictory to what she truly wanted for her life; she wanted a fulfilling relationship. During her time in the program, she did the hard work of deciphering those true feelings, taking meaningful action,

and getting her intentions clear. Fast forward one year; her house is clean, her heart is healed, and she’s engaged to be married. As a woman who, herself, didn’t marry until the age of 38, Kim promises us, she’s seen it all. Her years of trial and error in the dating world, as well as what action steps she took to finally “get it right”, are the key insights she often shares to set her clients on a new road to success. “Empowering men and women to achieve the positive life experience they desire is what I set out to do, each and every day. Through friendly face-to-face contact with those in my path, the thoughts I share on social media, and the work I offer through my coaching program, my intent is always to reach out and offer a heartfelt message of hope to someone who needs to hear it.” “Changing your life and your attitudes about relationships is all about mindset. Often, we do something one way for so long that we forget, or never stop to consider that there might be another way, a better way. I’m here to shine the light on a new way of thinking and being, and give new, fresh hope for those who have lost their way.” Kim, her husband Bruce, and their three fur babies reside in D’Iberville. You can find Kim on Facebook, or email her at kimgaughf@yahoo.com.

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.

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 EXPERIENCE  • Six Years Experience as Youth Court Judge • Twenty-five Years of Trial Experience • Former Professor at William Carey College • Graduate - Gulf Coast Business Council, Masters Leadership Program • Former Elementary Public School Teacher

“I am running for County Court judge with a passion and belief that we can change the outcomes for children and families in our county by utilizing a systematic approach that addresses fairness, accountability, transparency, and healing.” — Elise Epperson Deano

 ABOUT  • Married to Eddie Deano for 15 Years • Proud Mother to Sarah, Bryce and Joseph • J.D., The University of Mississippi School of Law • B.A., Elementary Education,The University of Mississippi • M.A., Educational Psychology/Counseling, The University of Mississippi • Recipient - 2017 Outstanding Citizen Award

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T P INFLUENCERS Christen Duhe is a Mississippi Gulf

To further its mission of empowering women, the SUCCESS Women's Conference will recognize 18 Top Influencers at this year's conference. Of the women selected, one will receive a Lifetime Achievement honor of The Coast's Most Influential Woman. An up-and-coming power leader will be named a One-To-Watch Influencer.

Coast native and a recognized name on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She is Vice President of Institutional Relations at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. She is a graduate from The University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor degree in public relations and a Master degree in mass communication. Christen is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast, Business Council’s Masters’ Class, MEC’s Leadership Mississippi and Mississippi Community College Leadership Academy. Christen is also Vice Chair of the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce and will serve as president for the upcoming year. Christen also serves the Mississippi Gulf Coast community through her involvement as member of the Mississippi

Dr. Vickie Tiblier is a career

educator who has served elementary and secondary levels as teacher, coach, counselor, and administrator and is devoted to working with children in school and in the community. She is a past community softball coach and board member of the Ocean Springs Parks and

From board member of the Mardi Gras Museum to former elementary and middle principal, Susan Hunt has been very involved on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Because of her community involvement, Susan has been awarded many awards including 2017 One Coast Award, 2016 Biloxi Outstanding Citizen, 2018 Leadership Mississippi Graduate and 2014 Forever Young Award.

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Beach Chapter of Public Relations Association, chair of Education for the 2018 United Way of South Mississippi Campaign Cabinet, treasurer of Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport, Leadership Gulf Coast Board of Trustees, Harrison County Junior Leadership Advisory Board and others She is most proud of her Junior Auxiliary Pajama Drive that supports the Harrison County Children’s Emergency Shelter. The Pajama Drive and shoe drive helps support children at the shelter who often come in the middle of the night with no belongings or clothing. Christen used her resources to partner with Chik-fil-A to hold a series of pajama parties at their locations to help with this project.

Recreation Department. Dr. Tiblier promotes the arts in Mississippi and strives diligently to improve the public perception of education. Dr. Tiblier is the 2017 Administrator of the Year for Ocean Springs School District and 2017 Congressman District 4 Administrator of the Year.

Susan is passionate about preparing our children and has been instrumental in Biloxi’s community certification for Excel by 5, an innovative early childhood community certification process that emphasizes the importance of parent roles and the roles of early childhood educators in the lives of children during the birth to age 5.

Christene Brice is busy on the Mis-

Ms. Brice is also a member of the Mississippi State Democratic Executive Committee, the Harrison County Executive Committee, and is actively involved in Gulfport’s Feed the Needy and Toys for Tots programs. Ms. Brice is also a member of the Harrison County Sheriff ’s appointed God-squad whose goal is to help resolve conflict between policemen and spring breakers. North Gulfport Outstanding Community Service Award, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Dreamer Award, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Leadership Award, Omega Citizen of the Year, Harrison County Alumni Chapter of MS Valley State Outstanding Service Award, Magnolia Bar Association’s Harriet Tubman Award, Medgar and Myrlie Evers Ambassador Award are just a few of the awards and recognitions bestowed on Ms. Christene Brice.

Dr. Christine Coker is a 17-year mem-

the New Orleans Farm and Table Experience, Lighthouse Business and Professional Women Board of Trustees and regularly volunteers for the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi and Earth Team Volunteer for Harrison County Soil and Water Conservation District. Dr. Coker is passionate about feeding people. She believes “through education about food production, sustainable agricultural practices, nutrition, food safety, and creative gardening strategies, the community can be transformed into a healthy place with access to safe and affordable food for all.”

sissippi Gulf Coast. The Tupelo native and Mississippi Valley State University alum is Harrison’s County’s District 4 Election Commissioner. Ms. Brice moved to the Gulf Coast in 1974 and began teaching in the Harrison County School District. While teaching, Ms. Brice created the Learning Shop program to enhance academic ability, develop decision-making skills, enhance self-esteem and improve behavior of students and has since become an active community leader. She is an active member of Greater Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Gulfport, is a 1995 Leadership Gulf Coast graduate, founder of WHY (Workers Helping Youth), organizer of the Teens for Christ Radio Show that broadcasts on WQFX on Saturdays, and publishes the South Mississippi Minority Business Telephone Directory.

ber of the Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center. Dr. Coker is a graduate of University of Tennessee at Martin with a B.A. in Biology, received a Master of Science in Biology from Austin Peay State University, and earned a PhD in Horticulture from Auburn University. Dr. Coker regularly mentors students of all ages (children and adult learners) helping them to graduate and to complete graduate level work. Dr. Coker also serves on advisory boards for Loaves and Fishes, the Mississippi Farm to School Network,

Jenny Levens is a lifelong resident

of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, a University of Southern MS alum, and winner of many honors including 2014 Leadership Gulf Coast Class, 2017 True South Economic Development Class, 2016 Top 10 Under 40 One Coast Awards, and 2018 Mississippi Business Journals Top 50 Under 40.

Jenny is passionate about informing her community through projects like Long Beach Wheel Way that will provide beach access to wheelchair bound citizens and visitors and other revitalization efforts that help promote businesses in Long Beach and Pass Christian.

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T P

INFLUENCERS Sharon Sigalas, one of four chil-

Now a grandmother, Judge Sigalas has continued her efforts of working to make a difference in the lives of children through innovative programs like the Heartbeat Program that assists courts move younger children through the court process more quickly, Fostering Futures Program, and the Parent Representation Team Approach.

Sonya Williams Barnes was

like Saving or Sisters, Organize for America and Boys and Girls Club of America. Representative Williams-Barnes is also passionate about STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Math) exposure for young ladies. She has partnered with local industries to host week long summer camps for 11-14 year old girls to encourage their interest in STEM fields. She is most passionate about ensuring all children have opportunities to be successful despite their situation.

dren born to very young and uneducated parents, spent what would have been her college years as a young wife and mother. At the age of 38, she decided to attend law school and become a youth court judge in order “to make a difference” instead of just making money as an attorney. She did just that in 2002 when she was elected as Jackson County Youth Court Judge.

born into a family whose life routine included service and concern for community. Sonya shines in serving others as Vice President of her family’s mortuary and District 119 as she speaks on the floor of the Mississippi House of Representatives. There she champions for proper funding for public and early education in addition to her MS Gulf Coast community involvements with programs

The Pink Lotus Project is an organization founded by Jocelyn Gavin-Lane to empower women and mentor girls. Jocelyn has used this project to give free prom dresses to girls who may not be able to afford them, mentor high school girls through monthly meetings with a curriculum tailored to their needs and development, and host a yearly Gulf Coast Youth Leadership Symposium to emphasize leadership and service. Jocelyn was born and raised in Bay Springs, MS and is a graduate of Jackson State University (Bachelor of Social Work) and The University of Southern Mississippi (Master Degree in Public Health – Healthcare Administration). She is the owner and clinical 118

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director of Premier Professional Counseling Services, LLC. Jocelyn is also a 2012 graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and the Department of Veteran’s Affairs Leadership Development Institute. She has received numerous awards for her philanthropic efforts including the Spirit of Ivy Award and the Daughter of the Year Award. Jocelyn is actively involved in her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, serves on the Board of Directors of Mental Health Association of South Mississippi, National Association of Social Workers, Gulf Coast Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. Gulf Coast Chapter of the Links, Inc. and many others.

Cheli Strumila, the owner/editor of

Coast Observer for 19 years, Magnolia Leisure & Entertainment for 9 years and the new owner of Coupon Concierge, is a self-made entrepreneur. In 2004, Cheli launched the Observer’s first “Covey Awards.” A Grammy-MTV award style ceremony complete with red carpet arrivals, award presentations, and performances by local musicians. In 2016, she founded an all ladies parading mardi gras krewe, Krewe of Salacia. Salacia being Neptune’s wife and the Goddess of the Sea seemed perfect for our coast. Krewe of Salacia is modeled after the Krewe of Muses in New Orleans but instead of decorated shoes, Krewe of Salacia is

Velma Johnson, award winning

Federal Programs Coordinator, is not only committed to working with the youth in her school district and church parish, but is also committed to helping her community live a better quality of life by encouraging and promoting physical fitness. Velma earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and Master’s degree in Education Administration from the University of South Alabama. Velma’s community involvements include 2015 Leadership

Jennifer Sutton, a Coast veterinarian, Lighthouse Business and Professional Woman Finalist, One Coast Community Leader Award, and The Society for Collegiate Leadership Achievement, is an active member of the Gulf Coast Community. She is a PTO president, Boogie on the Beach Printing Chair, Board of Directors for Open Door Homeless Coalition, prison ministry volunteer, 2011 – 2012 Leadership Gulf Coast graduate among many other

and will be known for their decorated Bikini Tops as well as many other unique sea and mermaid themed throws. Cheli has received several awards including being named one of Mississippi Business Journal's Top Entrepreneurs for 2018 as well as being named one of their first Top CEO's of Mississippi in 2016, and in 2017 she was named LBPW Women of Achievements-Woman Entrepreneur of the Year; the Coast Chamber’s Tapestry award, the Intrepid Angel award, the Biloxi Chamber Business of the Month spotlight, and the Forever Young award for Coast Young Professionals.

Gulf Coast graduate, Vice President of Gulfport Kiwanis, member of Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport, Youth Director and confirmation teacher at her church where she has led youth involvement in March for Life in Biloxi and Washington, D.C. Velma’s achievements include Blessed Gyrls Rock Emerald Award Recipient, United Way Trailblazer Award, and Junior Auxiliary’s Pearl in Our Crown Spotlight. She strives to live by the words of the late Rita Pierson, “Every child deserves a champion…”

community affiliations. Jennifer is a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer, serves as the voice of more than 26 children in foster care and mentored more than 30 community CASA volunteers. She is an active mentor through Open Doors Homeless Coalition and Bridges Out of Poverty Program. Jennifer is a member of the current Leadership Mississippi class.

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T P

INFLUENCERS Amber Olsen is the founder of

Nextaff Gulf Coast and mother of a child diagnosed with Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency. Amber formed United MSD Foundation and travels the world in search of treatment to help children, like her child, with the devastating disease.

Elise Deano, a native of Poplarville,

Mississippi graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s from the University of Mississippi. After deciding to pursue a law degree, she obtained a Juris doctorate from the University of Mississippi with the intent of becoming an education attorney. In 1998, she purchased the law firm that employed her and continues that private practice today. In addition to owning her own law firm

Angelyn Treutel Zeringue

is a Trusted Choice independent insurance agent and President of South Group Insurance Gulf Coast and AST Solutions, Inc. She has been recognized as One Coast Top Community Leader, Person of Passion for Hancock County, Hancock County Citizen of the Year and many more. She actively serves in her community through many organizations from the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce to publicly speaking on technology, leadership, insurance and business issues.

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Amber is past President of Singing River Chapter of American Business Women’s Organization, Past President of the Ocean Springs Rotary Club, Past President of the Gulf Coast Human Reserve Association, member of Gulf Coast Chamber and founder of Women Entrepreneurs Gulf Coast.

and practicing law, Elise has taught at William Carey, has owned a home security, home automation/theatre company, and was a Hancock County Youth Court Judge. While serving as Hancock County Youth Court Judge, she received state and national recognition for Ruth’s Roots, a gardening project for drug court participants. She was also instrumental in Hancock County’s 1.1 million dollar grant award to stop the cycle of drug abuse.

Angelyn is passionate about continuing to help shape the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She feeds this passion by mentoring women and young people while being guided by the objective “Aspire to Inspire.” This passion is shown through involvements as major sponsor and mentor for Alpha Omega Robotics Team of Our Lady Academy, speaker and leader for Business Retention and Expansion Project, and Women Entrepreneurs, Church Prayer Group Leader, Junior Achievement Advisor to name just a few.

Award-winning Gospel Artist and passionate community organizer only begins to describe LeKeisha Cotton. This founder of the Gulf Coast Gospel Music Awards was born and reared in the Mississippi Delta in the home of blues legend, B. B. King, Indianola, Mississippi. LeKeisha holds degrees from Mississippi Valley State University and Capella University in Business Administration. Her passion for business and music has afforded her the opportunity to share the stage

with many famous entertainers including CeCe Winans, Tamela Mann, Vicki Yohe, Rance Allen, and Lyle Lovett. LeKeisha’s community involvement is just as colorful as her music industry involvement. Executive Chair of Blessed Gyrls Rock Women’s Conference, member of Women’s Resource Center Development Committee, Mercy Housing Advisory Board, Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Art Center’s Events Planning Committee are just some of her involvment.

Shelia Rivers is owner and chief ther-

pressed by violence and assault discover their own power and voice. Because of that experience, it has become Shelia’s mission to continue to empower and inspire women to discover their voice and their identity. Shelia feels as if she has just begun to make her impact on the Mississippi Gulf Coast although she has been actively involved for several years. She lives by her motto “Empowered to make a difference” which guides her passion of helping others live their best lives to the fullest by making positive changes.

apist of Rivers Psychotherapy Services and believes in community involvement. This is evident in her volunteer efforts with Special Olympics, Harrison County Youth Shelter, Gulf Coast Women’s Center for Nonviolence (group instructor for domestic violence victims) and others. Shelia lists her most significant community achievement as her involvement with the Gulf Coast Women’s Center for Nonviolence where she learned her true passion of empowerment and the importance of being a social worker. She watched women op-

Elizabeth Joachim is a believer in giving

back to the community. She has worked to make the coast the best place in the state. For her service to the community, she received the Lorillard Citizen Award for Volunteer Service to the Community, the key to the City of Biloxi for serving as chairperson of the Biloxi Community Development Commission for 15 years, Boys and Girls National Service to Youth Award, Biloxi Chamber Director Emeritus Award, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Pat Santucci Spirit of the Gulf Coast Award to name just a few.

Liz runs Corso, Inc., her family’s 94-year-old wholesale distribution and full-line vending company and is actively involved in various business, civic, and cultural organizations. She has been named First Lady of Biloxi, Biloxi Mother of the Year, 1992 Leadership Gulf Coast graduate, Mississippi’s 50 Leading Business Woman Executives, Mississippi Leadership Class graduate, Sun Herald’s South Mississippi Outstanding Community Leader, and American Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year. Liz is a strong proponent of education.

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Congratulations to the Class of 2018

Whether graduating from kindergarten, high school or college, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College congratulates all students from the Class of 2018 throughout South Mississippi!

Special section sponsored by

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Way to go

You did it

Haley Switzer | St. Patrick Catholic High School Biloxi | High School Diploma Haley graduated with Honors. She was part of the National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and Interact Club. She received the St. Cecelia Music Award for leading music in Mass each week. Haley will be attending Highlands College in Birmingham, AL.

Porsha Williams University of Southern Mississippi

Broadcast Journalism B.A

Congratulations Porsha, you did it. Persistence

Haley - We are so proud of you and the young lady you have become. We know that you will succeed in anything you put your mind to as long as you keep Christ at the center of your ambitions. You are a beautiful, talented and kind person with a heart to help those around you.

and determination payed off. God bless as you

We love you so much and are so excited for what the future holds. Always remember to Be You! Love you, Mom & Papa

Love Always Mom Dad and your brothers

venture out into a great big new world. Much happiness and success to you baby girl.

Maurice DeAngelo and Raymond Lamont

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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Way to go Catie Lee Bruni | The University of Alabama

BS Biology | BA Studio Art Summa Cum Laude - GPA 3.963, UA Honors College, Mortar Board, Blount Scholars Program, Chi Omega, Pre-Dental Society, Students United for America’s Toothfairy, President Catie Lee - We are so proud of you and all that you have accomplished at The University of Alabama. We love your drive and your spirit. We know you will do great things and wish you the best at UMMC School of Dentistry!

We love you very much! God’s Blessings Always! Mom & Dad

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MKC Photography

Way to go Christopher Bruni | Gulfport High School Gulfport | High School Diploma Christopher served as Study Body President his senior year, was voted Most Intellectual, and selected to the GHS Hall of Fame. He was Captain of the 6A State Championship Admiral soccer team and voted Most Valuable Player. He won the Wendy’s Heisman and entered the MS Sports Hall of Fame. He is the Exchange Club’s Youth of the Year for Mississippi. Christopher is also an Eagle Scout. With a 34 on the ACT, a National Merit Commendation, and 3.98 GPA, Christopher will attend Millsaps College and pursue a degree in biochemistry while playing soccer for the Majors.

Christopher, we are so proud of you!! God's future plans for you are good and full of hope! Jeremiah 29:11

Way to go Kenson Barnes | Gulfport High School Gulfport | High School Diploma

Kenson Shedrick Barnes is the 18-year-old son of Sonya Williams Barnes and the grandson of the Rev. Theodore R. Williams, Jr. He graduated from Gulfport High School with Distinction and plans to attend Xavier University and major in Bio Medicine. Kenson was a member of the Football Team 9, 11, 12. Basketball Team 9, 10, Honor Roll, HOSA Treasurer was selected by his peers as MR. GULFPORT HIGH SCHOOL. He will begin his studies in Cuba next month with a group of Xavier University freshmen.

Congrats and May God continue to Bless you and protect you. Love, Mama & Paw Paw

Way to go Benjamin LeCamu | Southern Mississippi

BS Criminal Justice | Minor in International Studies With hearts of gratitude and love, the family of Benjamin Marcus LeCamu proudly announce his graduation from the University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Criminal Justice and a Minor degree in International Studies. Benjamin will be joining the Navy to fulfill his lifelong dream.

Best wishes, Your parents, brother and grandmother

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Congrats Gabrielle Williams University of Southern Mississippi

BSBA International Business Cum Laude Graduate | GPA 3.6 | College of Business Student Ambassador | Presidents Lists Member of: Student Government Association The Legacy Student Alumni Association Photographer for Student Printz Will Robinson Photography

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Way to go

Allison Daneault The University of Southern Mississippi

Bachelors in Biological Sciences with a minor in Chemistry Alpha Chi Omega Lucky Day Scholarship Recipient Allie, We are so proud of your accomplishments - getting your undergrad in 3 years and now heading to McWhorter School of Pharmacy at Samford University! You are a beautiful, caring person loved by all of your family & friends. Keep reaching your goals!

Love, Mom and Dad

SHOPPING & BEAUTY

All that sparkles Brandy Jarvis Ibos’ path to becoming owner of a boutique began at a young age. “Growing up, I always had a passion for fashion and a knack for marketing,” says Ibos, a former Saints cheerleader who is holding a grand opening for The Sequin Siren in July. “After holding several pageant titles and being a Mardi Gras queen and bride, I realized that on the Mississippi Gulf Coast there was an opportunity to offer something new and fresh for event fashion.” She formed a limited liability company and three months later opened the doors in a temporary location selling gowns for prom. The Sequin Siren is moving into more glamorous quarters on Popps Ferry Road. Gulf Coast Woman talked with Ibos recently about her business. Where did your passion for this type of business come from? I was a local pageant title holder in the Miss America Outstanding Teen, Junior Miss & Miss America pageant systems. I placed fourth runner-up for Mississippi’s Miss Hospitality and top 10 in Miss Mississippi USA. I wrapped up my pageant career in 2016 in the Miss Earth United States pageant, placing in the top 10. After years of searching for gowns, having custom gowns made, shopping for interview and public appearance outfits all across the country, I connected with some of the most influential designers in the fashion industry and felt as though my community was missing out on some of the fabulous fashion trends I so desired. Biloxi loses tax money to provide better roads, schools, etc. every time we go out of town to shop. By opening a store that offers sought-after fashion trends in Biloxi, it provides convenience to local residents and positively impacts our local economy.

Please tell us about your background and experience. I hold a degree in marketing from The University of Southern Mississippi. I am a former NFL cheerleader for the New Orleans Saints and marketing director for After The Proposal Weddings & Events. I was a marketing intern for the Humane Society of South Mississippi. While working during high school and college I accumulated a total of eight years of experience in customer service and five years total in retail. How did you come up with the name for the business? While brainstorming the idea of the business, I was looking at some of the sparkly mermaid decor in my home and it just popped into my head, “The Sequin Siren,” and I stuck with it! What kind of items do you sell in your store? We sell formal gowns, bridal gowns, cocktail dresses, jewelry, shoes, tuxedo shirts, specialty bow ties and cuff links. We also offer customers the opportunity to meet with designers to create their own custom one-of-a-kind gown for those wanting something special. IF YOU GO 1765 Popps Ferry Road, Suite B., Biloxi (228) 282-3000 Monday by Appointment Only Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. www.thesequinsiren.com

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Couple carves out niche with Wood & Wine Design Haven and Josh Lyons opened Wood & Wine Design Co. in May 2017 in downtown Ocean Springs. After instructing paint parties for nearly a decade, they decided to give this popular girls-night-out concept a facelift. Their main goal was to help others create unique and custom artwork to hang in their homes. Haven Lyons recently shared their vision and success with Gulf Coast Woman. GCW: Where did your passion for this type of business come from? Lyons: After experimenting with every stain, paint and wood type imaginable, we settled on the perfect "cocktail" and knew it was bound to be a hit. GCW: Why did you choose your location? Lyons: Born and raised in Ocean Springs, from a young age I realized art is a way of life here. I have always considered myself an artist, but instructing others to create something they are proud of brings my love of art to a whole new level. From the very beginning there was no doubt that downtown Ocean Springs was the perfect niche for us. GCW: What makes Wood & Wine Co. unique? Lyons: Our workshop provides a laid-back atmosphere, and all the tools needed to make something "Pinterest-Worthy" while enjoying the company of friends and family. Our studio is BYOB. Guests are welcome to bring an adult beverage or sweet tea to sip and enjoy! GCW: What types of events/classes do you offer? Which ones are most popular? Lyons: We offer a variety of workshops for all ages, and July-August 2018 130

Haven and Josh Lyons

occasions. We have public workshops at least three nights a week. These are a good way to come DIY alone, or with a friend or two. You can also host a birthday party, private, on location, or corporate event. GCW: What can a customer expect when attending a class or private event? Lyons: At W&W all project are made from scratch. Upon arrival guests are greeted with a pile of raw lumber. Your instructor will walk you through the sanding, staining, distressing and stenciling process. By the end of the workshop, you will have a piece of custom, professional-looking artwork ready to hang in your home. We have over 200 designs to choose from (not everyone does the same project during our workshops!) Choose to make a traditional framed wood sign, door hangers, trays, pillows, or canvas hangers. GCW: What is your vision/hope for your business? Lyons: We hope to show women on the Gulf Coast that power tools aren't just for men. It's easy to create those fabulous things you see in stores, with the right supplies and instruction. IF YOU GO: Wood & Wine Design Co. 1306 Government St. Suite 2, Ocean Springs (228) 217-6758 Hours of operation vary, but most workshops are from 6 - 8:30 p.m. www.woodandwinedesign.com

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Enhance

your favorite features

When you look your best, you feel your best, and when you feel your best, you have the confidence to empower and inspire! Find the features you love most about yourself and learn to enhance them with the power of makeup.

EYES If you love your eye color and you want to make them “pop,” consider the simple technique of color theory. Green eyes are complemented by taupes, purples and golds. Blue eyes look best with brown, peach, gold and plum. Brown eyes stand out with bronzes, coppers and green. Those with hazel eyes should experiment with purples and golds. You can incorporate these colors with an eyeliner or even in your everyday eye shadow. SKIN If you have great skin and love to let it breathe, then do just that. There is no rule saying you have to cover your face in a foundation and powder. Natural skin is in. Continue with your skincare and be sure to apply a daily SPF. Have fun with this look and add a highlighting liquid to the high points of your face to create a dewy fresh finish. 134

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by Jackie Merlau Jmerlaumakeup.com

LIPS I’m all about a bold, fun lip any day of the year. Choose a color that is complementary to the season and your eye color. If you love your lips but want them to look a bit fuller, you can tap a gloss into the center of your lips. The gloss draws the eye into the center of the lip, which then creates the illusion of fuller lips. EYELASHES Love your lashes? Find the perfect mascara that you can apply quickly to offer extra volume and/or length. If you’re loving the length of your lashes but crave a bit of volume, apply eyeliner into your lash line to create the appearance of volume. If you’re wanting your lashes to have a bit of length and curl, grab an eyelash curler and softly curl your lashes prior to mascara application. EYEBROWS Invest in a good brow product to fill and shape your brows to your desired intensity. Add a bit of a soft beige eyeshadow or a pop of highlighter right under the arch of your brow to create a strong brow bone. I suggest a brow pencil if you like a soft and natural shape to your brow. A gel works best if you like a darker defined brow.

Look as Young as you Feel HOME | GIFT

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Katie Hinkel, Owner 138

DOWNTOWN OCEAN SPRINGS | 228-447-4249

July-August 2018

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by Jerika Vincent

stand

TALL

Stay stylish this summer with a good pair of heels, but make sure to get the pair that fits you well! It’s trendy for women to elongate their body shape by heels or wedges. The dilemma is how to best accomplish this effect. Be sure to purchase a heel that fits your foot. A heeled shoe that’s too large or small draws attention away from the desired impact. Wearing a wedged heel can be very appealing, but a stiletto gives a more extended-length impression. Pointy-edged high heels usually are a safe bet for most people. Wearing high-heel shoes won’t succeed in making you appear taller if you don’t walk in them correctly. Anyone can try on a pair of heels and appear taller, but making sure you have great posture and balance is so important. Keep your chin up high (slouching can cause health issues!). A little trick to make your closed-toe heels fit is to add lotion to your toes before sliding on the shoes. Of course, an added benefit is the lotion will keep your feet moisturized throughout the day!

WATCH JERIKA’S FASHION SHOWCASE

WLOX-CBS, Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, SnapChat, and YouTube

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Celebrating 2 YEARS of Success!

Kori Hilton, Owner 117 Hayden Avenue, Suite B | Pass Christian, MS 228-222-5268

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Brandin Brosh, Owner

4 YEARS OF SUCCESS! DOWNTOWN OCEAN SPRINGS 1000-B Government St. | Ocean Springs, MS

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Sylvia and Ed Young, owners

ANTIQUE MAISON From vintage fishing lures to crystal glassware

bslshoofly.com Antique Maison is located just off Main Street, at 111 N. Second St., in Bay St. Louis. Owners Sylvia and Ed Young’s antiques and collectible mall contains more than 35 vendors and a dozen artists in 7,000 square feet of space. Corridors lined with everything from vintage fishing lures and hand tools to crystal glassware and furniture wind back and around in a delightful maze, leaving customers wondering exactly where they entered. Sylvia Young jokes in a take-off on the Gilligan Island’s theme song that “shoppers come in for a three-hour tour and may get lost.” In addition to antiques, the shop carries repurposed furniture, locally created art for both home and garden. The Youngs moved to Bay St. Louis in 1991, coming from New Orleans where Ed’s family had operated a furniture business on Magazine Street. since 1931. The couple opened a 142

July-August 2018

tuxedo/bridal/costume rental and sale business in the 111 S. Second Street location, called Bon Temps Roule. The shop was an Old Town anchor from 1991 – 2005. Sylvia explains that when Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, she was in negotiations for the sale of Bon Temps and looking forward to retirement. After the storm destroyed the business, the couple set to work cleaning out the building, making repairs and then beginning Antique Maison. In the eight years since opening, the couple has built that business, too, into a Bay St. Louis icon. “I’ll die with my boots on now,” laughs Sylvia. She and Ed lead the way through the enormous shop, explaining that they carry everything from “new to deco, to vintage.” Best sellers in the mall include shabby chic to antique furniture, home décor, jewelry, books, patio furnishings, and art.

HEALTH

Dealing with vaginal dryness after menopause

by Deborah Meza

Vaginal atrophy is the thinning, drying and inflammation of the vaginal walls as a result of your body having fewer estrogens. Vaginal atrophy occurs often after menopause. Less estrogen makes vaginal tissues thinner, drier, less elastic and more fragile. Because sex becomes painful as a result, the woman and her partner may in time begin to avoid intercourse and intimacy in their relationship. This also takes an emotional and physical effect on the health of the couple. Many men feel guilty about having sex when they thought or knew that it was painful to their partner. Because of the level of vaginal discomfort, many women avoid being intimate. Some women may no longer feel sexually attractive because of the discomfort and become emotionally distant from their partner. Many times, couples do not know how to discuss such intimate topics with one another. Your gynecologist can help you both understand by explaining what is happening to the woman’s body by discussing your options for treatment and or

management of symptoms to enhance your life. Vulvar and vaginal atrophy symptoms tend to peak at about 57 to 60 years of age or about five to six years after the last menstrual period. But it is always better to treat to prevent atrophy when possible. Women do not have to accept discomfort associated with our bodies changing with age. We can welcome each new season of our lives for they are all meant to be enjoyed to the fullest — and that includes joy and happiness (pain free) ! Women can share our secrets to help guide, teach the younger that follow us, but always have the important conversations with the professionals in the field of specialty that will help enhance your life. With modern medicine, there will always be new enhancements and new methods. Relief Is available.

Meza is an aesthetician, laser technician, massage therapist and Ideal Protein coach with Woman’s Clinic, P.A., Gulfport. Reach her at the clinic or (228) 341-7879.

A DROP IN ESTROGEN LEVELS MAY OCCUR: • After menopause • Over the years leading up to menopause (perimenopause) • After surgical removal of both ovaries (surgical menopause) • After pelvic radiation therapy for cancer • After chemotherapy for cancer • As a side-effect of breast cancer hormonal treatment

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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Christie Mims' Story BEFORE MY TRANSFORMATION In the beginning, it wasn’t about transformation, it was about feeling better. It started about six months after my youngest daughter was born in January 2011. I really just needed to not feel miserable. Something HAD to change.

BEFORE

MY GOAL My immediate goal was to be able to make it through 10 minutes of a workout video without feeling like I was dying. As the years went by, my goals changed; however, the changes were incremental, not drastic. WHAT I DID I started out with Zumba. My husband saw my determination and he bought me a treadmill. My intentions were not to ever run on it, so I started walking on it daily. Eventually, something clicked, and I found myself jogging, and then running. I ran (walked) my first 5k in February 2012. After that, I was hooked. I had found something I could do for me. After seeing my determination, my husband begin filling up our garage with workout equipment and I used it daily. In addition to the treadmill, there was a workout/smith machine, free weights, elliptical, and heavy bag. We also got numerous workout videos to use. Over time, our diets changed as well. We cut out all fried foods, soda, and limited eating fast food. I completed seven more 5k runs, too. Just before my youngest daughter began kindergarten, I began training for the 2016 Gulf Coast Marathon. In December 2016, I crossed that finish line with more confidence than I have ever had in my life. Now, my family eats better than we ever have and we focus on our health. HOW IT WORKED It only worked because I had a drive to be healthy. I was sick and tired of being sick and tired. There were no drastic lifestyle changes; only incremental. Learning how to run started with learning how to walk. I joined a Couch to 5K small group at Northwood Church. A friend and several ladies from that group helped me get ready for the marathon with their constant encouragement. Since the marathon, my confidence continues to soar as my dress sizes shrink. When this transformation started, I wore size 22. Today, I wear a size 8. WHAT WAS THE MOST DIFFICULT PART The most difficult part was making me a priority. We, as women, tend to fill our plates with the needs of our families before we take care of ourselves. Changing our way of thinking can be extremely hard. But, as the commercial says… Just do it. 144

July-August 2018

AFTER

HOW I FEEL ABOUT MYSELF TODAY Today, I am very happy with my health. I am more outgoing and less apprehensive when it comes to new activities. I give it my all because I can. My confidence level is high. MY ADVICE TO OTHERS For anyone who is looking to make positive changes in their health, I suggest to start with small, but maintainable goals. Once those goals are achieved, establish higher, yet maintainable, goals. Don’t let anyone or anything stop you from being the best you possible. Nothing in life worth having is typically easy to obtain. But, I will be the first to tell you, it is so worth it.

Attention + Memory = Focus Is it time to get help?

TREATING ADULT

ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER (age 15 and older)

The goal of ADD Clinics is to improve all areas of brain function and metabolism. When this occurs, all aspects of learning, memory, organization, and tasking improve. We want patients to envy healthy brains and work to attain a perfect brain. Type 1 - Classic ADD Inattentive, distractible, disorganized, hyperactive, restless, and impulsive. Type 2 - Inattentive ADD Easily distracted with low attention span, but not hyperactive. Instead, often appears sluggish or apathetic. Type 3 - Overfocused ADD Excessive worrying, argumentative, and compulsive; often gets locked in a spiral of negative thoughts. Type 4 - Temporal Lobe ADD Quick temper and rage, periods of panic and fear, mildly paranoid.

Type 5 - Limbic ADD Moodiness, low energy. Socially isolated, chronic lowgrade depression, frequent feelings of hopelessness. Type 6 - Ring of Fire ADD Angry, aggressive, sensitive to noise, light, clothes, and touch; often inflexible, experiencing periods of mean, unpredictable behavior and grandiose thinking. Type 7 - Anxious ADD Anxious, tense, nervous, predicts the worst, gets anxious with timed tests, social anxiety, and often has physical stress symptoms, such as headaches and gastrointestinal symptoms, conflict avoidant.

ADD Clinics is developed by Stanford A. Owen, M.D., a practicing Internal Medicine physician, known nationally for his expertise for treating nutrition-related illness. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and the American Board of Physician Nutrition Specialists. He is a certified Master Psychopharmacologist by the Neuroscience Education Institute with subspecialty training in ADD. He has treated adult ADD since 2001. Expertise in chronic disease, psychopharmacology, and nutrition allow combined treatment for the improvement of your most important organ â&#x20AC;&#x201D; your brain!

228-864-9669

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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3300 15th St., Gulfport, MS 39501 | www.addclinics.com

Michael J. Christie, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. BOARD CERTIFIED OB/GYN Now Offers New Revolutionary

4-D ULTRASOUND See a “Live Action” View Of Your Baby

ALL PATIENTS WELCOME! • It’s like looking through a

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of this practice to enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity areyour a Sports that (You utilizescontinue to to bond We with babyMedicine before itclinic is born. medicine treat 4-D our patients. seeperformance your regularbased OB/GYN aftertoyour Ultrasound).

Michael J. Christie, M.D.

We have movement specialist and recovery driven trainers who focus on return to play criteria for athletes of all ages. • Normal & High Risk Obstetrics • Laparoscopic Surgery

• Laser Surgery • All aspects of Gynecology

Diplomate of the American Board of OB/GYN

Quality Care, One Patient at a Time

Ocean Springs: 228-818-0025

2113 Government Street Building I-4 Ocean Springs, MS 39564

2 LOCATIONS:

3955 Chamberlain Ave. | Gulfport, MS 39507 Biloxi Office: 370 Courthouse Road | Suite 101 | Gulfport, MS

228-374-3749

228-241-1000

Michael J. Christie, M.D. Board Certified, OB/GYN

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147 Reynoir St., Suite 307 (across from Biloxi Regional Medical Center)

July-August 2018

228-539-5858 15190 Community Road, Suite 350 • Gulfport www.gulfportsurgeryclinic.com

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

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

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A second chance What would you do with your life if you were given a second chance? Barbara Allen faced that question, lying on her death bed from metastatic ovarian cancer —the chemotherapy having devastated her. It was the spring of 2014, and she hadn’t eaten a bite of food in 17 days. Unable to even sip fluids, bald, and seemingly facing certain death, she had a dream. She was sitting on the white lines of a blacktop highway when a voice asked her, “Which way do you wish to go?” Allen replied that she wanted to live. “Very well,” it responded. “Then you have work to do!” Allen was born in the thick forested hills of the North Carolina Appalachian Mountains. The love of the area stayed in her soul, calling her back every summer to a small cabin she had in Boone, a place with a running creek and a swimming hole. “Gorgeous and peaceful,” she says. Her father, an executive with Bristol-Meyers Squibb, moved the family a few times for business. Allen ended up at Memphis State for college where she met her future husband, David. David moved the family to what turned out to be their permanent home to pursue his dream of being an automobile dealer. The couple later acquired Allen Toyota and Allen Hyundai. Life flowed smoothly for the Allens, who had three children. After the young ones were tucked away in college, Allen took up professional photography. “As a child, I had a Brownie camera, and I liked taking people’s pictures. In 2004, my husband gave me a Nikon for Christmas, and I started taking pictures of everything I could find: landscapes, portraits, macro. I found I had an affinity for portraits and secured a job with a local magazine for 10 years. Yet, when on my own, my favorite portraits came from the faces of the homeless.” Her poignant pictures of the homeless won many first place awards at art shows. In 2013 the Allens' cherished life began

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July-August 2018

by Dr. Philip L. Levin

to crumble, first with David’s death from medical complications, and then, later that year, with Barbara’s cancer diagnosis. After that darkest nadir, when the Holy Spirit came to her in a dream, she woke up the next morning with seven bags of medicine running into her veins. The sunshine was streaming in the window, and somehow, she knew she was going to live. In her time of need, God sent her human messengers to teach her about natural ways of healing: diet, spiritualism, and natural medicines, and over the next few months she thrived, with medically tested undetectable cancer levels. “I knew my life had been saved for a mission,” said Allen. By May 2015, she’d started the Coast Cancer Prevention & Support Group, an organization growing stronger each day. “My heart is for helping individuals who want to be healed in a more natural way. Those who want to go the medical route, I refer to an oncologist. For others, I develop a natural alternative protocol. Many have healed themselves through holistic means.” Life is good for Barbara now. She still lives in the home where she nursed her husband during his last few months, with her beloved dog, Bandit. There she entertains and cooks. “I don’t call myself a gourmet, but the meals I make are mostly organic and healthy.” To keep herself in shape, she practices taekwondo, in which she’s earned a black belt. She’s been active in the community, serving on the boards of the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum, Republican Executive Committee, Advocates for Freedom, Chairman of the Board of Youth for Christ, and was on several past advisory boards including Peoples Bank and South Mississippi Humane Society, where her dog, Bandit, was the 2017 mascot. Her love of their automobile dealerships prompted her interest in exotic cars. You can spot her cruising the streets in her white Porsche Turbo S, her shining Lexus LC500, or her practical Hyundai Santa Fe. As she drives along those black topped highways, she remembers the time she chose to live, and values every day she has been given, giving back to those in need.

“I knew my life had been saved for a mission."

GET YOUR CHILD

BACK TO SCHOOL READY!

Call us for a check up today!

3200 Mallett Rd., Suite D Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Iberville, MS 39540 228-392-6875 Mark Murray, MD

Specializing in Asthma & Allergic Diseases in Adults & Children www.gcwmultimedia.com 149

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

John H. Mallet, M.D.

In addition to annual well-woman care, we offer a vast range of services including, pediatric and adolescent care, contraception, infertility, routine and high risk obstetrical care, 4-D ultrasound, treatment for bladder incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, cancer screening, bone density screening, treatment of menopausal symptoms, minimally invasive gynecological surgery, and Da Vinci Robotic surgery. We offer appointments Monday through Friday and same day appointments are available. Please browse our website and if you have any additional questions, please call 228-436-6658 to speak with our staff. Thank you for choosing Biloxi OB/GYN. We look forward to serving you. Visit Biloxi OB GYN Clinic on Facebook!

Stephen Jones, M.D.

We offer a number of services, including: • • • • • • •

Courtney Meredith, M.D.

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

147 Reynoir Street, Suite 105 Biloxi, Mississippi 228-436-6658 1720 Medical Park Drive, Suite 300 Biloxi, Mississippi

228-702-1500

TOTAL JOINT REPLACEMENT. Recovering in the comfort of your home.

OUTPATIENT ORTHOPAEDIC CENTER OF EXCELLENCE Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Centers of Excellence are Network Providers that specialize in certain illnesses and/or treatments. Our designation as a Center of Excellence is based on specific quality and best practices criteria as defined by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi.

� 228-447-4630 tv BienvilleSurgeryCenter.com � 6300 East Lake Blvd., #102 • Gautier, MS 39565 150

July-August 2018

OUR PATIENTS INSPIRE US JuneMedical is National CancerGroup Survivor Month and The all The Oncology would like to celebrate Medical Oncology Group would like to celebrate all of of our patients who have successfully fought or are in our patients who have successfully fought or are the process of fighting their disease. We hope that inyou the as process their disease. hope that you are much of of fighting an INSPIRATION to We those recently INSPIRATION to those recently are as much of an diagnosed as you are to us. diagnosed as you are to us.

To To learn learn more more about about this this special specialcommitment committmenttoto our our patients, patients, referring referring providers providersand andcommunity, community,call call 228.575.1234 or visit TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com 228.575.1234 or visit TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com

Pamela Tuli, M.D.

P.V. Pande, M.D.

Louis M. Varner, M.D.

TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com

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

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Images Motivational Consultant Agency

“

by Dr. Curtis Broussard

Getting to happy, which is not a

” Stay safe while having fun in the sun

place but a state of being

Charlotte E. Terrell, PCMHT, MA, MRT Founder/President/Certified Life Coach

Mission: I help individuals and busy executives, in high pressure industries (circumstances), lower stress levels, in order to find more happiness and joy, while becoming professionally rejuvenated, spiritually invigorated, and personally gratified.

What is coaching? Coaching is CHANGE in ACTION.

CALL ME TO START A JOURNEY TO SATISFACTION IN YOUR LIFE!

(662)778-8477 There is no health without mental health Have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome?

Sometimes, seeking help from a certified expert is the best way to put things into perspective. Services provided:

FAMILY THERAPY | COUPLES THERAPY | INDIVIDUAL THERAPY GROUP THERAPY | CONCIERGE THERAPY Evening and weekend appointments available

228-220-4226 | Fax 228-220-4303 info@premiercounselingservices.net 1390 29th Ave. | Suite B | Gulfport, MS 39501

WWW.PREMIERCOUNSELINGSERVICES.NET

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July-August 2018

Summer is one of my favorite times of the year. The sun is out longer so I can do all the things that I truly enjoy. Whether you are a fisherman, love to garden, are a beachgoer, or just like to be out with the grandkids, there are several things to keep in mind so that HEAT EXHAUSTION your summer remains enjoyable. During the summer months, take extra precautions before going out in the sun. Two of the most preventable conditions you or your loved ones may face are heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms, which usually occur in the legs and can occur in the abdomen. Drink water or a sports drink before and during any outside events. Be sure to wear clothes that are loose fitting so that the heat is not retained against your body. Generously apply sunscreen then reapply every two hours. Applying sunscreen before being exposed to the sun pertains to all individuals regardless of skin color. The primary heat-related injury seen during the summer is heat exhaustion. It is caused by losing water and salt through sweat. The symptoms most people experience are headache, weakness, dizziness, cool clammy skin and nausea. If you are outside and these symptoms occur, you should stop what you are doing and get to a cool place or shaded area. Begin to hydrate immediately. Loosen any restrictive clothing and place cool wet towels around your head and neck or pour water over your head. Fan yourself or the person experiencing heat exhaustion so he or she can so they cool down faster. The summer is a fun time for all of us, but we must not lose sight of the fact that the sun can be dangerous if necessary precautions are not taken. Remember, stay hydrated and apply sunscreen generously. Have fun and enjoy your summer.

Dr. Broussard is a primary care provider with Garden Park Physician - Group Orange Grove Clinic. For more info: GardenParkDoctors.com or (228) 831-1572.

LIFE SHOULDN’T BE A PAIN. WE CAN HELP!

Advanced Therapy is an independently owned outpatient physical therapy clinic established in 2000.

We offer: • One-on-one therapy performed by a licensed therapist at all times. • Unique and innovative hands-on approaches to musculoskeletal and movement disorders. • Same day and walk-in appointments available. • A laid back friendly atmosphere. • Parking at the door. • Financial flexibility. Most insurance accepted, including Medicare, Medicaid, Blue Cross, UHC, Workers Comp, Humana and others.

KELLY LANDRY, DPT LOUIS ENDRIS, LPTA

4063 Ginger Dr. | Suite C | D’Iberville, MS 39540

p 228-354-0093 | f 228-354-0094

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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Irlen Syndrome

Do you lose your place while reading? You may have Irlen Syndrome if: • You skip words or lines when reading and often re-read lines. • Words seem to “move,” dance, or dropout while reading. • You lose your place when reading and are easily distracted. • You have to take frequent reading breaks. • Bright lights cause headache or make you irritated when reading. • You prefer dim light, blink or squint, read up-close or use a finger to read. • A reading task produces anxiety, rapid heart rate, trouble sleeping, depression, and headaches. Many patients with ADD have Irlen Syndrome, a disorder with an easy, permanent, and riskless treatment. Also known as scotopic (light) sensitivity, Irlen Syndrome is triggered by components of light, such as fluorescent lighting, reflection, glare, intensity, brightness, wavelength (i.g., color), and/or color contrast. As a result, the person may experience: • Light sensitivity: bothered by brightness, glare, types of lighting. • Inefficient reading: letters on page move, dance, vibrate, and jiggle. • Restricted recognition: difficulty reading groups of letters. • Tunnel vision: difficulty seeing if not close to center of view. • Lack of sustained attention: difficulty maintaining attention. The high contrast between black print on a white background provides excessive stimulation to the visual system and thus interferes with the reading process. Helen Irlen developed effective methods for determining if a person suffers from Scotopic Sensitivity/Irlen Syndrome. She has also designed a standardized set of procedures that determine the correct lens color prescription. One patient improved his medical school entrance test results by 30 percent by using an Irlen filter. An 8-year-old, assigned to special education classes, immediately read

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July-August 2018

by Dr. Stanford A. Owen

perfectly for the first time after being prescribed lenses, leaving everyone in the room (parents and testers) crying with joy. He is no longer in special ed. Using a combined approach with questionnaires, neurocognitive computer tests, brain imaging scans (when necessary), prescriptive supplements, diet, medication, and Irlen lenses, patients are able to achieve much greater improvement than by just prescribing a pill, as is the custom in ADD treatment.

Dr. Owen of ADD Clinics of Mississippi is Certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine, the American Board of Physician Nutrition Specialists, and the Neuroscience Education Institute, as a Master Psychopharmacologist. He is an elected Fellow of the Obesity Society. Reach him at (228) 8649669 or by email at drowenmd@drdiet.com.

photograph courtesy of Irlens Lens

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HOME

A stately 1920s house in the Bay St. Louis historic district fulfills a lifelong dream for a Hattiesburg couple. story and photos by Ellis Anderson Maybe the pull most people feel for a coastline is a simple desire to be near water. To have an expansive view of sky and sea. To breathe deeply of salt-scented air. But for many who live farther inland in this particular state, there’s more. A historic sense of place also beckons with a different charm. For while coastal communities on the Gulf were colonized by European settlers more than 300 years ago, most of the cities in the interior — at least those away from the Mississippi River — are fledglings by comparison. For instance, Hattiesburg, our neighbor an hour away, wasn’t established until 1884. Back then, the new train lines and the burgeoning lumber trade tied the Coast to the young boomtown with economic and cultural apron strings. More than 130 years later, those ties still have Hattiesburg natives traveling southward on a regular basis. Many have second homes on the Coast during their working years. They dream of the day they’ll be able to retire by the 158

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water full time. Marvin and Regina “Gina” Morris followed in those footsteps. The couple were lifetime residents of Hatties-

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The door knocker from the house Marvin grew up in Hattiesburg

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burg. Now, as they approach their seventh decade, evenings often find them sitting on the front porch of their Bay St. Louis home. Watching the moon rise over the Sound, its light filtering through the boughs of the live oak tree, they sometimes consider the path that brought them to one of the loveliest historic houses on the Coast, the one at 600 North Beach Blvd. Marvin and Gina met in 1966 while they were both freshmen at Southern Mississippi. Marvin is a Hattiesburg native, while Gina had grown up in Sumrall, a rural community in Lamar County. Hattiesburg represented the big city to her. She and her girlfriends from college would cruise through the burger drive-thrus with Gina at the wheel of her parents’ 1963 station wagon. One evening, she and Marvin struck up a conversation. Neither looked back. They married in 1968. Gina graduated with a degree in accounting (“I like things that add up!”). Marvin planned to follow in his father’s real estate developer footsteps. He acquired a degree in a new major offered at Southern: finance, with concentrations in real estate and insurance. After graduation, he helped his father construct apartment complexes on the Coast, which gave the newlyweds plenty of opportunities to explore the area together. Skyrocketing interest rates in the mid-’70s had Marvin reconsidering his choice of career. The young father began law school at Mississippi College. Working the entire time, he graduated just two days before the couple’s third child was born. “Those times were quite challenging,” Marvin says. July-August 2018

“But they were fun.” The Coast became even more important to the couple as a family getaway, nearby and economical. The young couple teamed up with other young families to share camps on the Coast, first in Vancleave and then in Shoreline Park. Idyllic memories of those carefree times — and promises of more — made the workaday world in Hattiesburg seem brighter. Busy careers and the activities of four children eventually cut into their time on the Coast, but the Morrises still dreamed and schemed to return. Finally, in 2002, the empty nesters bought a home on Henderson Point near Pass Christian, one that would be their retirement home. Dream fulfilled. But the dream home’s three bedrooms and two baths proved to be too small when all the children — and growing number of grandchildren — came calling. The couple began an ambitious addition that doubled the size of the house, allowing for full-tilt boogie family reunions. The Morris clan and their friends celebrated the completed addition in June 2005. Almost three months later, after the unprecedented surge of Hurricane Katrina steamrolled through, they were left with “a few sticks.” The Morris home in Hattiesburg also sustained tremendous damage, so for the next few years, they focused on getting their lives in order there. Yet the Coast still called. So when a cousin suggested that Marvin and Gina start looking in Bay St. Louis, they drove down and found a house for sale on Main Street. Built on some of the highest ground fronting the entire Gulf of Mexico, the Old Town historic district had taken a beating, but its core was still basically intact. One of the joys of living in Old Town is the walkability of the neighborhood. After Marvin had open-heart surgery in 2008, the couple’s pleasure walking included a therapy element. They marked off their favorite 1-mile route. Round trip, 2 miles. Their daily route ended

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right in front of a stately pink house facing the Mississippi Sound, one built in the 1920s. They’d always admired the house, so it made a pleasurable marker in their day. One Friday, they spotted a “for sale” sign in the front yard of their turnaround house. They called realtor Estus Kea, who had sold them the Main Street cottage. The Morrises arranged for a showing the next day and put in an offer the next. The couple bought the 2,800-square-foot house knowing that it would need both major renovations and a large addition. Since there was no downstairs bedroom, they wanted to build a master suite in the eventuality that neither could climb stairs. Yet Gina and Marvin were concerned that a large addition could look like “a sore thumb.” “The contractors were talking about adding the addition on through the back door,” Gina says. “But I didn’t want to really change the original look of the back of the house.” After many talks, Gina finally took out a yellow legal pad and began sketching the addition that would add another 1,600 square feet to the historic home. It would have modern conveniences and a contemporary feel, yet it would complement the original home. A draftsman drew up construction documents from Gina’s sketch. When a friend saw the design, she brought over a copy of the post-Katrina Summary Report, published by the Mississippi Renewal Forum. Some of the best architects and planners in the country had worked on the publication four years earlier. It put forth ideas for each of the Coast communities to consider while rebuilding. On page 23 of the book, in the section on Bay St. Louis, is a drawing of 600 North Beach. The house is unmistakable. The drawing shows an addition to the rear. The drawing is presented in the book as an example of how surviving historic homes could be enlarged. From the detail that can be seen, it looks almost identical to the one that Gina designed. Gina had instinctively nailed it. When the addition was completed, The Bay St. Louis Historic Preservation Commission recognized the addition with a 2010 People’s Choice Award for New Construction, a major pat on the back for improving the historic district and the city. In the addition, the lion’s share of the ground floor con162

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tains a master suite for Marvin and Gina. Upstairs are two spacious bedrooms adjoining a Jack & Jill bath. All of the bedrooms open onto wide screen porches overlooking the tropical landscaping in the back yard. It’s obvious that the couple finds gardening one of their joys in life. Their vision in landscaping is especially apparent when comparing the photo of the addition from 2010 and a current one, taken eight years later. Meanwhile, in the original house, the HVAC systems were replaced and the bathrooms remodeled. The house was painted (and is under the watchful eye of painting contractor Chris Hansen, who inspects each year for needed touch-ups that will prevent serious damage). Chris’ wife, building contractor Jackye Crane (Crane Builders), remodeled the kitchen and is credited with discovering and resolving a major structural issue. “We’d had other contractors look at the floor upstairs because it was getting bouncy. No one could find any reason for it,” Marvin says. “Jackye had the good sense to actually tear out some boards so she could see the damage. Termites had eaten everything under the sun between the floors.” Repairs were made, flooring replaced and it’s now impossible to differentiate between original and new. The interior of the home sings with sunshine, even on cloudy days. Paint colors include lots of ambers and golds and daffodil shades. “We both love yellow,” Gina explains. “My kids say I’d paint the world yellow if I could.” Most of the furnishings, artwork and décor tell stories. There’s a statue of Evangeline that Marvin’s parents purchased when they were young. There’s the door knocker from the house Marvin grew up in on Main Street in Hattiesburg. There’s the old oak table that came from Gina’s grandmother and her mother’s mirror. There are also stunning sunset and sunrise photographs sprinkled throughout the house. Marvin is a photography enthusiast and delights in capturing the local scenic beauty to share. The new/historic hybrid house is often filled with family. At full capacity, there are 18 adults and children and a dozen dogs. “There’s a lot of howling and digging of holes,” Marvin says, laughing. “We’re always excited about seeing our children.”

photograph courtesty of American Factory Direct Furniture Outlets

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We are fortunate to live in an area where our heritage is unique. From seafood to dragonflies to shotgun houses, the South gives us many options to incorporate its history into our homes. Studying your heritage can be an interesting way to begin. There are many layers that can have such an enormous impact in creating your unique design, from throw pillows on your sofa with an alligator or a Southern theme, to crab, crawfish, shrimp and oyster art over your favorite chair. Take your time planning and have fun with the details. Use ideas that will bring your family legacy to reality. Vinyl quotes are available on the internet and can encourage a goal you wish to accomplish personally or it may be a very moving to those who read it. Choose a quote that is a positive influence or life changing. There is a story of a soldier returning from the battlefield who tells of the empowerment in his daily survival by reflecting on a quote that was artistically painted on the wall in the family dining room. Billie Comeaux is CEO and corporate designer for American Factory Direct Furniture Outlets.

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HOMEBUYING & SELLING

Expectation management: The missing link by Stephanie Shaw

There is nothing I enjoy more than heading home after a productive day at the office, playing ball with Squiggles, my miniature dachshund, and turning on HGTV. While HGTV has helped to draw our attention to current trends in decorating, paint colors and the current rage of tiny houses, watching shows like these can sometimes create unreasonable and unrealistic expectations for the consumer buying or selling a home. I have found the key to a successful transaction is communication. I intentionally keep track of the challenges that both the agents and consumers face. Over the years I have created list of things to expect when buying or selling a home. A couple of things you need to be aware of when purchasing a home: • DO NOT change of quit your job! • DO NOT pretend you know what you are doing! If you are a first-time home buyer, share that with your agent. Do not be ashamed or embarrassed that you do not understand the process that is what we are trained for. • P.S. Ask the agent what their level of experience is as well. • DO NOT go on social media talking about the properties you have seen, it can hurt your negotiation position or 164

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a seller’s feelings. A couple of things to understand when you are selling your home: • DO NOT expect feedback from a buyer’s agent, their obligation is to the buyer and they should not share anything that compromises the negotiation position of their client. • Understand that agents and buyers are human. They are going to schedule appointments and fail to show up; they are going to run late; they are going to show up early! • When you receive an offer on your property, focus on what you can do rather than the fact that is not exactly what you want. I cannot stress enough the importance of spending the extra time up front with your agent doing a buyer or seller counseling session. This time will help you build rapport with your agent and understand the process and the possible pitfalls. When you add great communication and process knowledge to price, location and condition, everyone’s expectation are not only met but exceeded. Stephanie Shaw is broker/owner of Latter & Blum Shaw Properties 777 Watkins Ave., Gulfport, MS 39507. Reach her at (228) 896-6060 or (228) 860-5245.

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COAST MARKETPLACE PRODUCTS

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MONEY

Know your education tax benefits Tax credits, qualified tuition programs, income exclusions and penalty waivers can help taxpayers with education expenses. A tax credit will reduce your taxes dollar for dollar and may even be refundable. A qualified tuition program is a program in which you are able to contribute to and accumulate earnings tax-free if funds are used for education expenses. Income exclusion is a means of excluding income from gross income because the income is offset by qualified education expenses. The penalty waiver is the avoiding of the 10 percent penalty on early IRA withdrawals because you used the funds for higher education. You are able to apply one or a combination of these benefits to your tax return that affords you the best possible tax outcome. Each benefit has its own set of qualifications, rules or limitations. One common restriction is that an expense can be used only once.

CREDITS There are two education credits available: the American Opportunity Tax Credit and the Lifetime Learning Credit. These credits are based on the expenses you paid during the calendar year, even if for classes taking place the following spring. Example: If you pay in 2018 the 2019 spring semester bill, you can use these expenses to calculated the 2018 credits. The American Opportunity Credit is a partially refundable credit. It credits up to $2,500 per student (100 percent of first $2,000 of expenses and 25 percent of next $2,000). Forty percent of this credit may be refundable. The student must be in his first four years of an undergraduate degree program and must be enrolled at least half-time. The Lifetime Learning Credit is a nonrefundable credit. It credits up to $2,000 per return (20 percent of up to $10,000 of expenses). The student may be an undergraduate or a graduate candidate and enrolled in either a degree or a non-degree program. This credit is available for an unlimited number of years. The credits are reduced or phased-out when the modified adjusted gross income reaches certain amounts (see chart). Married taxpayers filing separately do not qualify for these credits. 170

July-August 2018

by TIna Perkins

MODIFIED ADJUSTED GROSS INCOME PHASE-OUT

Filing Status

Married Filing Jointly

American Opportunity $160,000 - $180,000

$112,000 - $132,000

$80,000 - $90,000

$56,000 - $66,000

Single, Head of Household, Qualifying Widow

Lifetime Learning

The qualified education expenses for both credits include tuition, fees, books and supplies and equipment. However, for the equipment to qualify for the American Opportunity Credit, it must be required for enrollment. For the equipment to qualify for the Lifetime Learning Credit, it must be paid to the eligible educational institution as a condition of enrollment. The qualified education expenses may be for the taxpayer, spouse or their dependent. If you are eligible to claim both credits for the same candidate for the same year, you can choose to claim either credit, but not both. The candidate cannot be a convicted federal or state felon for possessing or distributing a controlled substance. And, the candidate must have a social security number or an individual tax identification number before the filing of the tax return. Parents can shift the credit to the dependent student by not claiming the student as a dependent on their tax return. SAVINGS PLANS Qualified tuition programs are of two types: prepaid programs and education savings accounts. These programs involve making non-deductible contributions for named beneficiaries in earlier years wherein earnings grow taxfree. In the years these funds are distributed to pay for qualified education expenses, the funds are tax-free. Earnings portion of distributions not used for qualified higher education expenses will be subject to a 10 percent penalty. Qualified higher education expenses include: • Tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment required for attending an eligible school. • Room and board if the student is enrolled at least half-time. • Expenses for special needs services incurred in connection with enrollment.

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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.

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

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4048 Popps Ferry Rd. D’Iberville, MS TWPerkins@aol.com 4048 Popps Ferry Rd. D’Iberville, MS

172

TINA PERKINS CPA, PA TINA PERKINS

228.392.2991 228.392.2991 July-August 2018

CPA, PA

• Cost of computer and related equipment, certain software and internet access. The ESA can be used to pay qualified elementary and secondary expenses (K-12th grade): • Tuition, fees, academic tutoring, books, supplies and other equipment needed for enrollment at a public, private or religious school. • Special-needs services for a special–needs beneficiary. • Room and board, uniforms, transportation and supplementary items and services (e.g. extended day programs). • Cost of computer technology or equipment or internet access and related services. Except for special needs beneficiaries, any balance remaining in the ESA not used for education expenses must be distributed within 30 days after the beneficiary reaches 30 years of age. Any distributions from a prepaid program not used for higher education are subject to a 10 percent penalty. There is a phase-out when modified adjusted gross income reaches certain amounts. INCOME EXCLUSIONS Qualified scholarship and fellowship amounts are excluded from gross income if received by a degree candidate and used for tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment required by the education institution. Amounts received by a non-degree candidate are taxable. Interest earned on Series EE bonds (issued after December 31, 1989) or Series I bonds is excluded from income for qualified taxpayers if the bonds are used for qualified educational expenses. Qualified educational expenses are tuition and fees for the bond owner or his spouse or dependent at a qualified educational institution (e.g. college, university or vocational school). Room, board and books do not qualify. This exclusion is not available to married taxpayers filing separately. PENALTY WAIVER The 10 percent early withdrawal penalty is waived on IRA withdrawals if the funds are to pay qualifying education expenses. Qualifed education expenses include tuition and fees, books, supplies and equipment required for enrollment as well as room and board. The student (e.g. taxpayer, spouse, child or grandchild) must be enroll at least half-time as an ungraduate or graduate candidate. These education tax incentives can be difficult to comprehend. Get the institution’s 1098-T and QTP’s Form 1099-Q after year-end and see your tax professional for help. Perkins is a CPA at Tina Perkins, CPA, P.A., 4048 Popps Ferry Road, D’Iberville, MS 39540. Reach her at (228) 392-2991.

Ways to maximize savings late in life

by Lee Rogers

So, you decided you’re ready to take the plunge and start saving for retirement. The day you have been long procrastinating about has arrived. Maybe you went to meet with a financial advisor or decided to come up with a savings plan on your own. There’s just one big problem: To get to your goal in such a short time you may need to put away nearly half of your income. YIKES! I’m going to share with you some ideas I have found helpful to clients who started saving late in the game just like you. Next time you are getting ready to make a large purchase, take a few steps back and consider some things first. What hidden costs are involved in this item? For example, if you are looking at financing a purchase, you have probably decided if there is room in your budget for the monthly payments. You also may have decided the item you are purchasing is worth the sale price, but have you considered how much you will end up paying for that item with interest? Often times it is thousands more than the sticker price. Another question to ask yourself is in the years to come, how much will costs like maintenance, insurance, taxes etc. be going up for this item? My next tip is really beneficial for people of all ages. Stop letting the government hold on to your money from all year until tax day. Wouldn’t you be upset if you tucked away money in a savings or investment account all year and earned no interest on it? Well, that’s what you are doing with your tax money when you could be investing it instead. If you get a large refund every year, you may want to meet with your payroll department and adjust your tax withholdings to an amount that is more appropriate for you. This last idea is a hard one to swallow because most people would suggest the opposite. Have you considered that paying off your mortgage might not be the best option for you? A lot of people are in such a rush to get out of debt that they don’t realize it is not always the best way to prepare for retirement. It seems like a logical idea to pay off your house quicker and pay less interest. In some situations, there is a better alternative. Meet with your financial advisor and let them know how much extra a month you pay on your house note. See if they can come up with a strategy to help you store that money in a way that may accrue more interest for you than you will be paying out on your mortgage. I hope you have found these ideas helpful. If you are looking for guidance, I would love to meet with you and come up with a plan specific to your situation.

Rogers is president/owner of Marston Rogers Group, Gulfport. Securities (and investment advisory services) are offered solely through Ameritas Investment Corp. (AIC). Member FINRA/SIPC. AIC and Marston Rogers Group are not affiliated. Additional products and services may be available through Marston Rogers or Marston Rogers Group that are not offered through AIC.

Retirement | Income | Planning

www.marstonrogers.com Office: (228) 206-5902 | Fax: (228) 265-5977 15431 O’Neal Rd. Ste B | Gulfport, MS 39503 Securities and Investment Advisory Services are offered solely through Ameritas Investment Corp. (AIC). Member FINRA/SIPC. AIC and Marston Rogers Group are not affiliated. Additional products and services may be available through Lee Rogers or Marston Rogers Group that are not offered through AIC.

Choose financial "help" carefully

I talk with a lot of families, especially after there has been a traumatic event. Often, someone has been diagnosed with dementia or a spouse has passed away. Sometimes an elderly person has been defrauded of their assets or home. Quite often, although not always, it is a woman seeking my help to get the return of her assets. What has amazed me during these conversations is that so many women feel that they must let others “help” them with their assets because they do not know the details of their financial life or they feel unable to handle their finances on their own. They may know all of the birthdays for everyone in the family, but often they are not able to tell me details about their assets — the information that they need to know to make crucial decisions or to protect their assets. Sometimes, they are even unable to state where they have their financial accounts, how much they have in those accounts, or how those accounts are titled. What seems commonplace is that women, especially as they age, often allow others to “help them handle” their financial assets by “putting another name” on the accounts so that someone can help them pay bills. In Mississippi, if you list another person’s name on your account as a person who can sign (or make transfers) on that account, you have no recourse if that person takes every cent from your account and leaves town. While you may trust that person whom you put on your financial account, just remember that you need to protect yourself the most from those who are the closest to you and that you may suspect the least. Ninety percent of perpetrators of fraud on elders are known to their victims, with roughly 6 out of 10 cases of elder financial abuse being committed

by relatives — usually, the victim’s children — and about 3 out of 10 instances being traced to friends, neighbors, or home care aides. (“Fraud in the Family,” AARP Magazine, Februby Kathy Brown ary-March 2018) Van Zutphen Therefore, I want to recommend to everyone, Turning life’s storm waters … especially women, to do the following: If 1. Know what assets you own, where they are located, and how the property or accounts are titled; 2. Check the statements of financial accounts on a regular basis to watch for any unusual activity. This includes any unauthorized CALL TODAY activity taken by your children or family; (228) 357-5227 3. If you live alone, do not isolate yourself. Keep inAL-MSCOASTALLAW.COM touch with a wide array of friends and family so that they know about your circumstances. Quite often, if someone is attempting to commit fraud, they will isolate you from others; 4. Do not be afraid to engage a professional to help you — whether it is an attorney, certified financial planner or accountant — it is better to have another set of eyes watching out for you; 5. Do not be afraid of having a trust or some other mechanism to help you, rather than just assuming that you have no choice but to list another person on your accounts. Information is key to protecting your financial assets. Do not be afraid to ask questions and learn more about your options. you are troubled, maybe I can help. If you are a small business needing help or considering forming a business, a family member who needs help with a loved one, or an individual who has been injured or needs help with a divorce, give me a call and I will use over 17 years of experience to help you no matter what situation you may face. I graduated from the University of Alabama in 1983, magna cum laude, and then received a Master of Arts before later proceeding to law school at the Cumberland School of Law of Samford University in Birmingham, Ala. I received my Juris Doctorate degree in 1997 and have had extensive experience since that time in corporate and insurance defense litigation, general civil litigation, as well as in the areas of Trusts, Probate, Estates, and the legal area called “Elder Law.”

Kathy Brown van Zutphen Attorney at Law

ELDER LAW | BUSINESS LAW | REAL ESTATE LITIGATION

Kathy Brown van Zutphen 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. Reach her at (228) 357-5227.

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174

Member FDIC

July-August 2018 Trustmark - Gulf Coast Woman Magazine

Turning life’s storm waters …

you are troubled, maybe I can help. If you are a small business needing help or considering forming a business, a family member who needs help with a loved one, or an individual who has been injured or needs help with a divorce, give me a call and I will use over 17 years of experience to help you no matter what situation you may face. I graduated from the University of Alabama in 1983, magna cum laude, and then received a Master of Arts before later proceeding to law school at the Cumberland School of Law of Samford University in Birmingham, Ala. I received my Juris Doctorate degree in 1997 and have had extensive experience since that time in corporate and insurance defense litigation, general civil litigation, as well as in the areas of Trusts, Probate, Estates, and the legal area called “Elder Law.”

CALL TODAY

(228) 357-5227 Kathy Brown van Zutphen Attorney at Law

AL-MSCOASTALLAW.COM ELDER LAW | BUSINESS LAW | REAL ESTATE LITIGATION

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FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT Mosaic enhances menu

farm-to-table by Chris Dearman

For more than a decade, Mosaic Restaurant & Bar has provided award-winning cuisine and specialty cocktails with an international flair. Looking to bring healthier food options to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, they recently revamped their menu with an aim to improve their patrons' quality of life by putting healthy food on the table. Owner Arturo Barajas, along with his business partner Gabriel Khachik, offer a wide variety of sophisticated dishes from all over the world. You will find seafood, beef, pork, chicken, and vegetarian dishes that are bursting with flavor, and now certain ingredients have been replaced to ensure a tasty meal with the highest nutritional value. This past February, Mosaic was the recipient of Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce Main Street Tourism Bureau’s Restaurant of the Year award. Not wanting to rest on their laurels, they have launched a new, health-conscious menu, which has been met with great response. Throughout the menu you will find icons that designate which dishes are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. They have eliminated table salt, replacing it with sea salt, and they now use only organic hormone-free eggs, certified Angus Beef, and Gulf Coast Shrimp. They offer grass-fed beef on certain items and are already working on the next menu where all their beef, pork, and poultry will be completely hormone free, becoming a true farm-to-table restaurant. “I really wanted to showcase that we are moving to the healthier side,” said Barajas. “While we still have dishes for those wanting to indulge, we also wanted a menu that provides options for everyone.” You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, as it’s obvious that great care has been taken to provide an exceptional dining experience. Many will remember when Mosaics first opened it was strictly a tapas bar. While expanding to incorporate many different types of dishes over the years, it still offers a large variety tapas, or small plates, similar to appetizers and designed to be shared and encourage conversation. The unique fare includes items such as Argentinian Empanadas, Asian Lumpia Rolls, and Shrimp Ceviche — just to name a few. July-August 2018 176

Put them in the middle of the table while having drinks or a hookah, and it creates a unique ambiance from all the aromas mixed together. Besides tapas, you will also find signature platters, salads, pasta, burgers, and sandwiches. On my latest visit, we started with the gluten-free and vegan Detox Salad. Full of antioxidants, it’s a rich salad of tender kale mixed with quinoa, tossed in a lemon mint vinaigrette, topped with chickpeas, walnuts, dried cranberries, tomatoes, and marinated onions. Large enough to be shared, it is tasty and filling. Next up was a fantastic new dish, the Lemongrass Curry Shrimp. Large Gulf Coast shrimp pouched in a flavorful yellow lemongrass curry with garlic, onions, and bell pepper. Served with rice and topped fresh cilantro, the sauce was so good I was temped to lick the bowl. Another great dish is the Grilled Stuffed Avocados. A whole ripe avocado split, seasoned, grilled, and then stuffed with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and onions. It’s served over a bed of rice pilaf and grilled asparagus, and topped with parmesan cheese. I am already planning a visit back to order it again. We ended the night with Mosaic’s famous Churrasco Steak Platter, an Argentinean combination of a large grilled ribeye steak topped in a wonderful chimichurri sauce, and spicy grilled Mexican chorizo topped with peppers and onions. Served with crostinis and salad, be sure to bring your appetite as this large platter of goodness won’t disappoint. In addition to the delicious food, Mosaic prides itself as having one of the largest drink menus on the Coast. With beautifully prepared mojitos and specialty drinks, you can also find drinks you won’t find anywhere else in the area — like the Caipirinha, Brazil’s national cocktail made with cachaça, a sugar cane hard liquor, sugar, and limes, or Bora Bora Punch, made with flavored rums, tropical fruit liqueurs, and fruit juice, all of them refreshing on hot summer days. “Some people have mentioned this is the most cosmopolitan spot on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and that’s what we are trying to show,” Barajas said of the environment he is working hard to create. Mosaic Restaurant & Bar is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Live entertainment is on-hand most days, with bands coming from all over to play an eclectic mix of music.

The most cosmopolitan spot on the gulf coast

Spectacular Food • Great Martinis Awesome Music • Live Entertainment Outdoor Seating • Daily Specials Sunday Brunch Mon- Wed 11am -10pm Thurs 11am -11pm Fri-Sat 8am - 2am Sun 8am -10pm

MOSAIC RESTAURANT & BAR 1010 Government St. Ocean Springs, MS 39564 (228) 818-9885 www. mosaictapasrestaurant.com www.facebook.com//MosaicRestaurantBar

1010 Government St. • Ocean Springs, MS

228.818.9885 www.gcwmultimedia.com

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Yes, you need to COOL off! 10 ways

[ Tell us about your coolest places at #iamgcw ]

styles including Arabic, Indian, Flamingo, Reggae, Salsa, Jazz, Blues, 1. GOLDEN NUGGET POOL Non-hotel guests can purchase a pool pass: $20 per person Monday through Friday; $30 per person on weekends. 151 Beach Blvd., Biloxi.

under 48”. 1150 S Beach Blvd., Waveland.

2. HARD ROCK BILOXI POOL Non-hotel guests can purchase a pool pass: $15 per person Monday through Friday; $20 per person on weekends. 777 Beach Blvd., Biloxi.

6. THE KROC CENTER Non-members can purchase a 2-hour pool pass for $10 for ages 3 and up; ages 2 and under are FREE. 575 Division St., Biloxi.

3. MARGARITAVILLE SUMMER SPLASH BASH Every Friday night in the summer 9 p.m. – midnight. Non-hotel guests $15 per person; hotel guests and kids 5 years and under are FREE. 195 Beach Blvd., Biloxi. 4. BUCCANEER BAY WATERPARK Admission is $19 if you are over 48” and $13 for anyone July-August 2018 178

5. GULF ISLANDS WATER PARK Admission for anyone over 42” starts at $18.99 and nder 42” starts at $11.99. 7200 16th St., Gulfport.

7. CLAY BOYD PARK SPLASH PAD 214 Morris Noble Road, Ocean Springs 8. HARPER MCCAUGHAN SPLASH PAD 301 Jeff Davis Ave., Long Beach 9. SAUCIER COMMUNITY PARK SPLASH PAD

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THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING GOOD COOKING! CLIMBCLIMB CDC offers equal equal education opportunities, services, and/orand/or employment to all qualified persons without regardregard to race, sex, reliCDC offers education opportunities, services, employment to all qualified persons without to color, race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age,equal disability, veteran or marital status, sexual preference, or any factor in the in application to, admission gion, national origin, age,education disability, veteran or marital status, sexual preference, orother any non-merit other non-merit factor the application to, admission CLIMB CDC offers opportunities, services, and/or employment persons without regard color, sex, reliCLIMB CDC offers equal education opportunities, services, and/or employment allqualified qualified persons without regard torace, race, color, sex, reliCLIMB CDC offers equal education opportunities, services, and/or employment to to alltoall qualified persons without regard to to race, color, sex, relito,CLIMB orgion, participation in any of its courses, programs, or activities. Auxiliary aids and services will be provided to those with disabilities upon reto, CDC or participation ineducation anydisability, of itsopportunities, courses, programs, or activities. Auxiliary aids and services willnon-merit be provided to those with disabilities upon renational origin, age, veteran marital status, sexual preference, or other factor ininthe application offers equal services, and/or employment to all qualified persons without regard to color, to, sex, relinational origin, age, disability, veteran or marital status, sexual preference, orany any other non-merit factor therace, application to,admission admission gion,gion, national origin, age, disability, veteran or or marital status, sexual preference, or to any other non-merit factor in the application admission CLIMB CDC offers equal education opportunities, services, and/or employment all qualified persons without regard to race, to, color, sex, quest. This program is funded in part by TDWDA/SMPDD. TTY#: (800) 582-2233 quest. This program is funded in part by TDWDA/SMPDD. TTY#: (800) 582-2233 to, or participation in any of its courses, programs, or activities. Auxiliary aids and services will be provided to those with disabilities upon gion, origin, age, disability, orveteran maritaloror status, sexual preference, or any other non-merit factor thethose application to, admission to, or participation in any ofcourses, itsveteran courses, programs, or activities. Auxiliary aids and services will benon-merit provided to with disabilities reto, national or participation in any of its programs, activities. Auxiliary aidspreference, and services be provided tointhose with disabilities upon re-rereligion, national origin, age, disability, marital status, sexual or will any other factor in the application to,upon quest. This isisfunded ininpart by TTY#: (800) 582-2233 admission to, participation inThis any of program its courses, programs, or aids and services be provided to thoseupon with reto, or participation in or any of its courses, programs, orisactivities. aids andAuxiliary servicesTTY#: will be provided towill those with disabilities quest. This program funded part byTDWDA/SMPDD. TDWDA/SMPDD. TTY#: (800) 582-2233 quest. program funded inAuxiliary part byactivities. TDWDA/SMPDD. (800) 582-2233 disabilities upon re-quest. program funded in part by TDWDA/SMPDD. TTY#: (800) 582-2233 quest. This programThis is funded in is part by TDWDA/SMPDD. TTY#: (800) 582-2233

Showcasing the very best soul food dishes and fixins of the Gulf Coast. Join us for breakfast or lunch or let us cater your next event.

228.214.4287 | 1316 30th Avenue | Gulfport, MS 39501 www.msaudreyskitchen.com

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179

Palate by Chris Dearman Mixing non-stop fun and the endless thrills of 24-hour gaming with welcoming Southern hospitality, the Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort offers the ultimate in luxurious hotel amenities, breathtaking design, and a variety of excellent dining options from award-winning chefs. The Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, located in D’Iberville, is the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s newest casino. After working up your appetite playing their numerous slot machines, table games, and poker options, you can enjoy dining in the elegant atmosphere of Scarlet’s Steaks & Seafood, or casual dining at the Under The Oak Cafe, Chopstx Noodle Bar, and the Waterfront Buffet. UNDER THE OAK CAFÉ The Under the Oak Café offers more than 100 menu options, bringing you classic All-American casual dining in the shade of an old oak tree preserved within the Scarlet Pearl. Offering delightful breakfast options 24 hours a day, seven days a week, you can also get soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers, pizza, po’ boys, seafood and steaks. Their desserts and frozen dairy bar are also not to be missed.

SCARLET PEARL CASINO 9380 Central Ave. D'Iberville, MS 39540 (228) 392-1889 www.scarletpearlcasino.com

CHOPSTX NOODLE BAR If you are looking for something with an Asian flair, the Chopstx Noodle Bar is where you can enjoy some of the finest Vietnamese sandwiches, pho, and appetizers on the Coast. With dine-in or carry out available, the chefs at the Chopstx Noodle Bar serve fresh and hot noodles, soups, and other Asian cuisine that will have you coming back for more. WATERFRONT BUFFET The Scarlet Pearl’s Waterfront Buffet will satisfy any craving as you take your taste buds on a journey with a variety of choices including soups & salads, fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and Asian and Italian cuisines. Featuring live cooking, on-site carving stations, and a wood burning

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July-August 2018

pleasers!

We took the dining tour at Scarlet Pearl — see what we loved

pizza oven, the breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet has something for everyone. Be sure to come on Friday and Saturday nights where they feature delicious all-you-caneat dungeness crab legs. SCARLET’S STEAKS & SEAFOOD Scarlet’s Steaks & Seafood is the place where you can enjoy steaks, seafood, and one-of-a-kind house specialties created by the award-winning Chef Anthony Rametta. Featuring a sultry decor, with dark woods and luxe leather accents, it's the perfect atmosphere to spend an intimate evening with someone special or celebrate with a gathering of friends. You will want to start with an appetizer or two, and with choices such as Beef Tartare, Cherry Foie Gras, Crab Cakes, Escargot, and a variety of oysters, you can’t go wrong with any of them. On my visit, I had the Jumbo Scallops wrapped in Applewood bacon, topped with Mujjol Caviar and a Beurre Blanc Sauce. Seared to perfection, each bite you take melts in your mouth. Scarlet’s Steak & Seafood also has a fine selection of soups and salads. The Arugula, Grape and Almond Salad is large enough to be shared, and the red grape, shaved onions, topped with roasted, spiced almonds and Manchego cheese is a sophisticated offering that is quite refreshing. You will see Chef Rametta’s 29 years of experience on full display when choosing one of Scarlet’s perfectly cooked steaks. Depending on your appetite, you can choose from an 8 oz. filet mignon, a 16 oz. Delmonico, prime rib in either 18- or 25 ounce varieties, an 18 oz. bone-in rib-eye, or the 24 oz. porterhouse. I went with the popular ribeye, topped with the accompaniment Scarlet Topping that consists of artichokes, button mushrooms, and colossal crabmeat. Served with roasted garlic and a fanned out, grilled roasted red onion, this mouth-wa-

tering dish is absolutely to die for. If you are looking for seafood, Scarlet’s has you covered with live Maine lobster, Alaskan king crab, and a variety of grilled, blackened, and pan seared or fried fish such as Chilean seabass, redfish, snapper, and speckled trout. On my visit, I had the blackened striped bass with their Gulf Coast topping. With colossal crab, sautéed jumbo shrimp, and a beurre blanc sauce with herb oil, the dish looked almost as wonderful as it tasted. While it will be hard to do so after being served such large portions, try to save room for one of Scarlet’s Steak & Seafood’s signature desserts. The Chocolate Mousse was absolutely amazing. Sitting upon a brownie wafer, the homemade whipped crème and macerated raspberries combined to create one of the best desserts I’ve had in a long time. Scarlet’s Seafood & Steak is open for dinner Wednesday through Saturday, and on Sunday it offers an à la carte Jazz Brunch featuring bottomless mimosas, bellinis, and a bloody mary bar serving the classic to the extravagant. If you are feeling adventurous, try The Ultimate Bloody Mary, which is garnished with skewered filet mignon, candied bacon, royal red shrimp, caviar, and a succulent lobster tail.

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Courtney Vance, Robin Roberts to headline Steak & Stake

FAMILY

Steak & Stake is the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast’s largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds from the event allow the organization to continue its work with the thousands of children and families who count on them every day. This year's event, 6 p.m. July 27 at IP Casino Resort & Spa, is Blues & Bling! The event celebrates the rich culture of blues music. Attire is Coast casual, and guests are encouraged to wear their favorite blue item and some bling. Tickets are $100. Supporting the event will help open the door to children who would not have had an opportunity to attend the club’s programs. Celebrities Courtney B. Vance and Robin Roberts will be the special guests, and Jonathan Brannan with WLOX will emcee the event. Vance won a Primetime Emmy Award in 2016 for his portrayal of Johnnie Cochran in “American Crime Story: The People vs. O.J. Simpson” and three Tony Awards for his work on Broadway. He is known for his roles in “Law & Order: Criminal

Intent,” “Dangerous Minds”, and “The Preacher's Wife”. He is a Harvard and Yale trained actor who grew up attending the Boys & Girls Clubs in Detroit, Mich. He was recently inducted into the Boys & Girls Clubs of America's Alumni Hall of Fame. Roberts grew up in Pass Christian and is a longtime friend of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Gulf Coast. Before her 15-year career at ESPN, one of her early positions in broadcasting was at Biloxi's WLOX. Roberts is anchor of “Good Morning America”, where she has interviewed a host of guests including Barack Obama, Prince Harry and Oprah Winfrey. She won a Peabody Award for coverage of her battle with and treatment for the bone marrow disease myelodysplastic syndrome. SPONSORSHIPS, TICKETS AVAILABLE More info: www.bgcgulfcoast.org or email steakandstake@bgcgulfcoast.org (228) 896-3770

HAVE FUN OR START A NEW CAREER Are you tired of the same ole, same ole. Looking for something fun and different in your life or maybe start a NEW CAREER? You are in the right place. We teach the art of making jewelry using copper, brass, silver, and so much more. PRIVATE PARTY/CLASS ARE AVAILABLE FOR THAT SPECIAL OCCASION (birthdays, promotions, girls/guys night out, etc.) with your family, friends, or coworkers by making beautiful jewelry. Call 228-864-9138 to setup a private party/class.

CLASSES OFFERED:

CALL 228-864-9138

to setup a private class for just you and your friends!! It is something fun and different. 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

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July-August 2018

Travel tips for family trips by Sarah Lyons

Whether you take a two-hour plane trip or a 14-hour car ride, traveling with kids can be stressful. While a family vacation is a great way to spend time together, relax, and make memories, you must make the journey there first. Here are some tips for making traveling with kids a little more enjoyable. FIGHT HUNGER Hunger can affect kids behavior and attitude. During travel, pack easy snacks for the car like grapes, smoothies, and crackers. This is a great time to purchase those individually wrapped snacks you usually don’t. They are easy for the adults in the car and seem like a treat for the kids.

ELECTRONICS For most families, the go-to solution for road trip boredom is electronics. DVDs and video games are a great way to kill time in the car. Loosen electronics time while traveling, but when you get there, restrict time more than usual. Without a gadget in their hands, they will get more out of your vacation time.. Summer vacations teach kids to explore what is outside their hometown, the importance of family time, and to make downtime a priority. Best of all you will create memories that last a lifetime. Lyons is a mom of six kids, including 1-year-old triplets.

TIMING Timing is everything when you are traveling with little ones. Try to plan travel around normal nap times or bed times so that kids will rest during the majority of the drive. Also plan breaks often enough that kids can get out and stretch and burn off energy. GET THE KIDS INVOLVED Cut road trip boredom by getting the kids involved. Use games like license-plate bingo or car-color bingo. Encourage kids to keep a trip journal. Have them write down or draw favorite memories from each stop and add stickers and ticket stubs. Another great way to get kids involved is to give each a disposable camera for them to document their trip. When the pictures are developed they can add them to their trip journal.

I don’t just see a customer. I see you. Bryan Jacobs, Agent 1806 25th Avenue Gulfport, MS 39501 Bus: 228-867-8801 downtownbryan.net

SURPRISES It is always nice to have a few surprises up your sleeve to break up the trip. Try packing up the kids backpacks and have them waiting in the car. When they get bored pull out a few surprise items — new magazines or books, crayons and a new coloring book, special snacks, small activities, and maybe some new movies to watch. Websites like Pinterest are full of ideas for traveling with kids. 1706838

While other insurance companies just see a customer, I see a neighbor in my community. I’m here to get to know who you really are so I can help life go right. LET’S TALK TODAY.

State Farm Bloomington, IL

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COAST CARES Many things we are passionate about are driven by our own life experiences. The birth of Adopt a Grandparent Day is an example of that life-driving passion.

Volunteers cheer, honor elderly on Adopt A Grandparent Day In 2013, Kathy Rogers’ mother Sybil Pigott fell and injured herself, necessitating a 30-day stay in a local nursing home. In spite of the fact that Kathy, her husband Lee, and other family members visited every day, the loneliness, despair, and depression felt by her mother was fully evident. When Lee came to visit, he began noticing people sitting in the hallway outside their doors waiting for him; his custom became to take just a few minutes of his time to talk and tell a joke with everyone he saw. That few minutes, he realized, helped them feel like there was someone who cared about them. Statistics show that 50 percent of the elderly residing in nursing homes have no close relatives and 46 percent have no living children. Some reports indicate that as many as 60 percent of the residents never have visitors. In early 2014, the Rogers launched Adopt a Grandparent Day locally by organizing volunteers to visit nursing homes on the Saturday before National Grandparents Day. They felt this would be a great way to give back to their community while also encouraging others to join them in honoring the life and value of the elderly. Military families, church groups, motorcycle clubs, school clubs, Girl Scout Troops, and others joined with them to visit the elderly in nursing homes. Adopt A Grandparent Day is now a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization reaching the elderly in Harrison, Hancock, Jackson, Pearl River, Stone, and George counties. This year, Adopt a Grandparent Day is Sept. 8, and 700-plus volunteers are expected to visit 33 elderly care facilities in the South Mississippi. For one hour, volunteers will visit the elderly, encourage them with activities and prizes, and let them know that someone does care. The Rogerses hope the visits will spark longer-term relationships between the volunteers and the seniors they visit. 184

July-August 2018

BECOME A SPONSOR Sponsor deadline (for logo inclusion on T-shirts) is Aug. 10. T-shirts given to each volunteer and to seniors participating in the event. All sponsors will be recognized on website and social media. Legacy - $1,000 – May submit a 15-second video promoting their business to be used on our social media Heritage - $750 Heirloom - $300 Friends of AAGD - $100 – recognition on social media Gift items are need for placement in gift bags that each elderly person will receive. Candy and items containing alcohol cannot be accepted. Preferred branded items such as small notepads, pens, eyeglass cleaners, small stuffed animals, playing cards, stress balls, nail files or clippers, small hand lotion, toothbrushes, toothpaste and handkerchiefs. BECOME A DONOR Donations can be made via Paypal. Amazon purchasers can go to Amazon Smile and choose Adopt A Grandparent Day as their charity and a percentage of all their purchases will be donated to AAGD at no additional cost to them. BECOME A VOLUNTEER Sign up for one hour at www.adoptagrandparentday. org beginning Aug. 15. More info: Send inquiries to adoptagrandparentday@ gmail.com.