Gulf Coast Woman July-August 2019 by Gulf Coast Woman

OMAN GULF COAST

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LEADING FROM THE HEART

Coach sets example of hard work, dedication for her students

By Jennifer Gentile

ichele Woodberry is not one to seek the spotlight. Although her role requires her to take charge and run large events at times, the self-proclaimed introvert prefers being behind the scenes. “I like my athletes to get the recognition,” says Woodberry, the boys’ and girls’ head track and cross-country coach at Gulfport High School. While Woodberry wants the shine to stay with the students, she couldn’t help but draw attention herself – winning Coach of the Year for Region 4 in 2009 among other distinctions. Woodberry just completed her 20th year teaching and 17th year coaching, starting her career teaching physical education and coaching track at Picayune Junior High and coming to Gulfport in 2005. A two-time state champion in cross country, and a South State, regional, and district champion in track and field, her athletic experiences in high school shaped the approach she uses to train young athletes. “I have found out over the years that respect is the key to reaching the kids and getting them to succeed in the classroom and on the track,” Woodberry says. If you show these kids you care and give them the respect they deserve, they will try and do the best they can do.” Woodberry’s own three children, 21-year-old Jordan, 19-year-old Alexandra and 17-year-old Victoria, tagged along to countless practices, meets and games while growing up. Woodberry coached all three, which she counts among her most rewarding experiences. “The main reason I entered the education/coaching field was because

July-August 2019

of my children,” she says. “I wanted to work a job that allowed me to be with them as much as possible.” Perhaps the greatest testament to Woodberry’s abilities are the 103 individual district champs, 73 individual regional champs, 19 individual south state champs and eight individual state champs Gulfport has produced during her tenure. Thirteen athletes have pursued athletic careers past high school, including Woodberry’s daughter, Alexandra, who runs for Mississippi State and competes in the seven-event heptathlon. “Standout teaching moments come when I get a letter or note from a student telling me how I impacted their life in a positive way,” Woodberry says. “Standout coaching moments come when I see them achieve personal goals they have set for themselves and when I see them continue running in college.” Sometimes female coaches are overlooked or replaced in favor of male coaches, Woodberry acknowledges, but with her caring, compassionate nature, no-nonsense approach and undeniable work ethic, she has impressed men and women alike. In the 6A division, the largest in the state, Woodberry also is a rarity — the only boys' and girls' head track coach on record. “I do believe I have earned the respect from fellow track coaches across the Coast and state,” says the coach, who's had four team south state championships and eight team regional championships while at Gulfport,

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Photography by Brandi Stage

“and I am honored to have worked with many great coaches learning and gaining knowledge along the way.” Part of that learning process has meant switching paths and still trying when situations don’t turn out as planned. No matter what, the coach urges, “Never give up on your goals and aspirations.” “It’s also OK to make mistakes and fail,” she adds, “as long as you learn from them and allow it to make you stronger.” After school and track practice, as well as on weekends, Woodberry can be found managing and serving at Biloxi restaurant Fill-up with Billups. A firm believer in community involvement, she has hosted the Hershey Track Meet for the Gulfport Recreation Department. Each June, she, her assistant coaching staff and track athletes also run the track and cross-country camp for kids ages 5-12. “If I can give a kid the drive and want to compete and become the best version of themselves and to learn how to deal with success and failure,” she says, “then I have succeeded.”

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FROM THE HEART

Veterinarian is determined to make a difference

n a community with numerous needs and problems to address, Dr. Jennifer Sutton is part of the solution.

Photography by Brandi Stage

Passionate about helping marginalized and underserved populations, both people and animals, the veterinarian has worked tirelessly on their behalf. “Success is not also measured in achievement or recognition,” Dr. Sutton says. “Sometimes the most fulfilling activities are those that not too many people even know you did, but you do, and it provides a personal satisfaction that is unparalleled to any other.” Locals who have experienced a pet health crisis probably are familiar with Gulf Coast Veterinary Emergency Hospital, part of the practice Sutton owns with husband, Jeff. The practice also includes Beach View Veterinary Hospital, which was acquired in 2015. Although Dr. Sutton was born in Washington, D.C., her family came to Long Beach in 1978, and she has 36

July-August 2019

a deep connection to the area. After meeting at LSU, the Suttons relocated to Cincinnati after graduation but decided to return to the Coast in 2003. “We had the desire to open our own veterinary practice and knew we wanted to practice progressive medicine, but I also did not want to ‘compete’ with my friends …,” Dr. Sutton says. “This prompted our survey of area veterinarians for a niche that was not being met, and emergency medicine seemed to be it!” Before Katrina, the mother of four says she was absorbed with the dayto-day duties of being a working parent. The Suttons evacuated 10 miles north during the hurricane, returning home to find everything from the bricks to the furniture was gone. “The days and weeks following the storm are a blur as I think about them today,” Dr. Sutton says. “Our business was spared, so my husband quickly returned and under generator power took care of many search-and-rescue dogs (and) stray and owned animals, and (we) distributed whatever food and supplies that we had ….” The couple wasn’t sure, in Katrina’s aftermath, whether they’d have enough business to sustain their practice. However, Dr. Sutton recalls, it was busier than ever because pets had become even more precious — offering their owners love and support during a tumultuous time. “We heard often (from people) in the days, weeks, months and years following the storm that if it had not been for their pets, they would not be here — that they would have let go of the tree, of their roof, of their floating debris, but they did not want to let their animal down,” Sutton says. Post-Katrina, the veterinarian felt a strong desire to give back. In 2013, that call caused her to step away from her practice to serve as executive director of the Hancock County Court

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Appointed Special Advocate program (CASA), which advocates for abused and neglected children. Additionally, with canine partner, Belle, she has presented a program to over 3,000 children called “Hug a Tree and Survive” — teaching kids what to do when they are lost while also instilling confidence around dogs. She and Jeff also are consistently involved in low-cost spay and neuter services while offering other veterinary services to those in need, such as an annual drive to vaccine animals of the homeless. The emergency hospital provides temporary respite care for injured wildlife as well, and according to Sutton, her practice works with Brandy’s Hope to employ disabled individuals. “We are always looking for ways to grow our practice to serve more needs of the community,” Dr. Sutton says. To that end, more than $1 million in upgrades are now underway to the practice, including a new building to house a crematorium and blood bank for animals, as well as the installation of a CT scanner and hyperbaric chamber to increase diagnostic and care abilities. The Suttons' success recently led to recognition as the 2019 Small Business Administration Mississippi Small Business Persons of the Year. All three of the Suttons’ girls have expressed interest in a veterinary career, she says, and the school bus brings two of them to Beach View daily, where they work filling treat bags, caring for patients and helping in the back of the hospital. With their involvement, Sutton adds, the practice is truly a “family business.” “Science has proven that those who love and care for animals have lower rates of depression, hypertension, stress and other emotional, mental, social and psychological benefits,” Dr. Sutton says. “What an honor to care for people through their pets!”

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WOMEN OF assionate, Dedicated, Admirable. These words plus many more describe the women of Scarlet Pearl. We are proud of these women as they build the success of not only the Scarlet Pearl, but the Mississippi Gulf Coast. With their devotion and commitment, female leaders at the Scarlet Pearl are mentors to many, contribute to winning countless awards, and participate in numerous community outreach programs.

Guiding these powerful women is LuAnn Pappas, whose fearless approach to leadership has created an influential presence within the Scarlet Pearl family as well as within our local community. With many years of experience in the gaming industry, LuAnn is one of only two female casino Chief Executive Officers on the flourishing Gulf Coast. Thank you to the women of Scarlet Pearl.

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July-August 2019

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ADRIENNE ELLIOTT Director of Design & Style, Elliott Homes Adrienne Elliott is originally from Canada and has fallen in love with Coastal Mississippi during her years of calling it home. Alongside her husband, she’s helped grow the homebuilding company Elliott Homes into the area’s premier home builder. Elliott leads the Elliott Homes Design Studio team and creates stunning interior design layouts.

ADELE LYONS CEO, Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Adele Lyons serves as CEO of the only accredited Chamber of Commerce in Mississippi, whose mission is to connect, inform, advocate and develop.

DR. ALISHA H. WARE Woman’s Clinic P.A. Dr. Alisha Ware is a fellow of the American College of OB/GYN and a member of the Mississippi State Medical Association. Dr. Ware provides da Vinci robotic surgery and vaginal rejuvenation and specializes in normal and high-risk obstetrics. AMBER HESTER Chief executive officer, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Gulfport Prior to joining Encompass Health, Amber Hester served as the CEO of two hospitals with Kindred Healthcare in the Boston market. She also has experience serving as a CFO in the postacute care setting. She worked for Encompass Health from 2005-2012 in various accounting and leadership roles and holds a bachelor’s in accounting and a master’s in business administration.

DR. ALLISON WALL Doctor of oncology and hematology, Medical Oncology Group PA, Hematology Oncology Partners (HOPE Clinic) Dr. Allison Wall’s research in hematology and oncology has been published throughout her career. She works closely with local physicians and is consulted by colleagues throughout the country. In 2008, Wall joined the The Medical Oncology Group and later was elected president. In 2017, she formed her own practice, Hematology Oncology Partners (HOPE Clinic), at Gulfport’s Memorial Hospital, and has clinics in Gulfport and Biloxi.

ANGEL JONES Owner/dyslexia therapist, Gulf Coast Education Solutions Angel Jones has spent over a decade working with children with learning disabilities. She started Gulf Coast Education Solutions as a way to help meet the growing need for specialized services along the Gulf Coast and surrounding areas. She began by working with students in a conference room, then later expanded into two suites with several additional service providers. In August, she will open a new center in Gulfport.

July-August 2019

Success Showcase sponsored by

AMBER LORD Owner/stylist, Salon Rouge Amber Lord credits her 12 years of success to her undying passion and dedication to the beauty industry. Salon Rouge offers color corrections, wedding day glam, extensions and everything in between. Some of Lord’s work has been featured on the cover of Gulf Coast Woman magazine, and one of her greatest honors is being able to serve her community. ANGEL KIBLER-MIDDLETON Harrison County Supervisor Angel Kibler-Middleton was elected in 2015 to the Harrison County Board of Supervisors. She served as board president in 2018. She also served on the board of the Harrison County Utility Authority for three years. A wife and mother, Middleton is a registered nurse and has owned Angel’s Auto Sales for over 20 years. SUCCESSFUL

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OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM

AMBER HESTER Chief Executive Officer

LAURA CIRONE Human Resources Director

JACQUELINE LIPSKI Director of Therapy

JENNIFER MACKENZIE Director of Case Management

MURIEL OSBURN Controller

KRISTY SARGENT Business Development Director

LINDA STOVALL Director of Quality and Risk

KAITLIN TRUONG, PHARM.D. Director of Pharmacy

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At Encompass Health, we are committed to delivering the highest quality care to our patients. From inpatient rehabilitation to home-based care, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re with our patients for every step of their post-acute journey. Our clinical collaboration and cutting-edge treatments ensure patients receive the best care for their needs at all times. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re proud to say our approach helps patients achieve better outcomes.

CONNECTING TO BETTER CARE THROUGH OUR HOME ADMISSION PROGRAM Navigating your way through recover after an accident, illness or surgery can seem overwhelming. People deserve the best rehabilitation care in the most beneficial setting, so it is important to know the difference between an acute rehabilitation hospital and skilled nursing facility or nursing home. Our rehabilitative care is different. Advance rehabilitation treatments, clinical experts and comprehensive programs deliver a fully coordinated program of rehabilitation treatments, ensuring patients receive the best care for their needs and to quickly get them back home.

4500 13th Street Suite 900 | Gulfport, MS 39501 228.822.6965 | encompasshealth.com/gulfportrehab www.gcwmultimedia.com 43

ASHLEY GRANT APRIL BULLOCK Owner, Ashley Grant Home BURKS, OWNER Interior designer Ashley Love, Ivy and Eve Marie’s Boutique Grant is the owner of Ashley April Bullock Burks always has Grant Home, an upscale home had a passion for fashion, and 12 furnishings store in Ocean years ago, her dream of owning Springs. Guided by her eye for a boutique became a reality when scale, color and style, she has she bought Eve Marie’s Boutique in earned a reputation for creating Hattiesburg. She decided to bring her homes that are simultaneously harlove for business and boutiques back monious, peaceful, livable and impacthome to the Gulf Coast six years ago, and ful. Since 2006, Grant has had the privilege of working with Love, Ivy was born. clients throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast; New Orleans; Alys Beach, Rosemary Beach and Watersound, Florida; and BECKY FARRELL Attorney, Law Office of Becky Beaver Creek, Colo. Farrell Pllc BEVERLY MARTIN Becky Farrell went to law Supervisor, Harrison County, District 1 school with a mission to fight Supervisor Beverly Martin is serving for those who couldn’t fight her first term in office, where she was for themselves. Since then, elected president her first day. Her she has become a fierce advobackground in tourism included servcate. She has practiced law on the ing as commissioner of the Mississippi Gulf Coast for 18 years. Coast Coliseum and Harrison County Tourism commissions. She was the only female executive director of the statewide Casino Operators Association. Previously, she was the executive director of the Mississippi Coast Restaurant and Beverage Association. She is also a founding member of BOBBI EKLUND Massage therapist, Mind and Body Inc. Cruisin’ the Coast. BRANDI STAGE Bobbi Eklund has been a licensed Portrait photographer, Brandi massage therapist for 28 years. She and Stage Portraiture her husband work locally and travel Brandi Stage is a portrait the nation teaching and can certify photographer who creates others through an advanced training. a special experience and This important work is changing the magazine-style photo shoot perceived definition of massage therapy, in her studio for women, men, and Eklund is helping create a new generachildren and pets. Her work has tion of specialists. She specializes in synergetic been featured on several covers of myofascial therapy and working with postural problems, moveGulf Coast Woman and recently won ment limitations and muscular pain relief. a Gold Addy for the 2018 Success issue. Stage is a member of Professional Photographers of America and Gulf Coast NetBRITTANY KASZUBOWSKI working and sits on the The Women’s Resource Center board. Interior designer, Southern Charm CHANTELLE CHOTTO After receiving her bacheMortgage Loan Originator, GMFS lor’s degree in interior design, Mortgage Brittany Kaszubowski has Chantelle Chotto has been a undertaken projects ranging mortgage loan originator with from residential design, like-new GMFS since 2017. She loves construction and condominiums, helping people achieve home ownto commercial design, including ership while making the process as retirement homes and restaurants. easy and simple as possible.

July-August 2019

Success Showcase sponsored by

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Mind and Body, Inc. BOBBI EKLUND, MASSAGE THERAPIST

LMT# 2629 MS

I have been a licensed Massage Therapist for 28 years. My interest in massage stems from the age of 5 years old when I wanted to relieve my teenage sister’s tension by rubbing her shoulders. I swore then that I would learn how to be effective with it. I was born in New Orleans but by the age of 9 moved to Pensacola, FL where I graduated high school. After graduation I moved to Houston, TX and found The European Institute of Massage Therapy. Wanting to further my skills, I moved to Italy. During my 8½ years there I attended the NewAge School of Shiatsu. I learned special skills and an approach to hands-on work that would aide in my abilities to sense where the body has stagnation, restrictions, or simply tension. When I moved back to the states I attended a massage school

in Alabama — named at the time Blue Cliff School of Massage — graduating in 2004. In 2006, I opened my own massage center, a state licensed school of massage, and I have been teaching since 2011 in Alabama. During this same time frame I participated in an annual charity event for 10 years offering massage to the leaders in the hunting and country music industries called Country Goes Huntin™. I am currently co-teaching with my husband Magnus Eklund LMT# 144 — after having been trained by him — he is the founder of Synergetic™Myofascial Therapy as well as Synergetic™ Structural Integration. SMT is an advanced deep tissue and fascial work with movement inspired by the work of Dr. Ida P. Rolf. We travel together nationwide teaching per the National Massage Therapy Board standards able to certify others in a 200 hour advanced myofascial training.

Specializing in Synergetic™Myofascial Therapy and Structural Integration working with postural problems, movement limitations and muscular pain relief. Contact me today for Advanced Myofascial Techniques and Functional Movement Assessments.

2628 EXECUTIVE PLACE | BILOXI MS www.gcwmultimedia.com SESSIONS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY | PLEASE CALL 600-501-0337 TO SCHEDULE.45

CHRISTEN DUHÉ Associate Vice President of Institutional Relations, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Christen Duhé is from Bay St. Louis and now lives in Gulfport with her husband. She is passionate about higher education and encourages everyone around her to take the next step toward a college degree. Duhe is the chair of the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce and president of the state board of the Public Relations Association of Mississippi.

CHRISTIE FOUNTAIN President and Creative Director, Christie Fountain Advertising Inc. Love what you do. Strive for greatness. Over deliver. Give back. Be thankful. Christie Fountain has kept those ideals top of mind for more than a decade as she grew her solo boutique into an award-winning, turbo-charged creative advertising agency.

CONNIE ROCKCO Harrison County Supervisor, District 5 A fifth-term supervisor, Connie Rocko has served three terms as board of supervisors president. Recently named among the Top 25 Women in Government, Rockco was elected twice to serve on the Mississippi Association’s Legislative Committee. She is the past chairperson for the National Association of Counties Five State Coastal Counties and Parishes Caucus and played a leadership role in uniting the five coastal states to lobby for the health of Gulf waters. CRISTINA SWITZER Hairstylist, The District Salon Cristina Switzer has been serving the Coast with her craft and artistry for 28 years. She has continued her training with many renown hairstylists, local and national, during those years. She specializes in various color techniques and is best known for her specialty in cutting. DAWN LIECK Store manager, Speedy Cash; owner, Finally Free LLC Born and raised in the Chicagoland area, Dawn Lieck moved to the Coast in 2009. Before Speedy Cash, she worked for 20 years for Sam’s Club, and she also owns Finally Free, LLC, an empowerment coaching firm; she is an international empowerment speaker and author. She serves in many capacities, including board of trustees, Lighthouse BPW; co-chair, Success Women’s Conference; board member, Gulfport Chamber of Commerce; and graduate, Leadership Gulf Coast. 46

July-August 2019

COURTNEY JACOBS Owner/insurance agent, IDR Agency Courtney Jacobs owns IDR Agency in Biloxi, specializing in auto, home and business insurance. She is a wife and mother to two children and very active in the community, serving in leadership roles and sitting on boards for the Biloxi Kiwanis, the Biloxi Chamber, and Like-Minded Ladies Gulf Coast. She also is an active member of the National Guard unit at Tyndall Air Force Base. CYNDI HUFF GAUDET Director, University of Southern Mississippi - Gulf Park School of Interdisciplinary Studies and Professional Development Natchez native Cyndi Huff Gaudet is an academic entrepreneur whose passion is developing people through innovative academic programs of excellence with the tag line, “Work Hard, have fun, make a difference!” She is recognized as a researcher, author and national expert, helping organizations implement a systematic approach for developing human capital.

DEBORAH MEZA Laser, medical skin care and massage specialist, Women’s Clinic PA Deborah Meza has 21 years’ experience in the massage and aesthetic field. Her career has allowed her to work with well-known casinos, surgeons and plastic surgeons in the Hattiesburg, Biloxi and Gulfport areas. Meza’s experience includes skin rejuvenation, laser hair removal, vein treatments, onychomycosis and platlet-rich plasma treatments with micro-needling, as well as laser vaginal rejuvenation and urinary incontinence laser treatment for women.

Success Showcase sponsored by

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Why you should call me today... I’m the professional you want in your corner when it comes to real estate advice. I’m a tough negotiator and have the highest level of expertise and knowledge of the Gulf Coast market. I will find the right home for you with affordable insurance. I’ll work diligently to find the right home for your budget! As a highly respected Realtor, I have intimate knowledge of the market. I, and the CBP team, possess the marketing savvy and overall expertise that you need in a Realtor. For personal service and results just give me a call.

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THE PEOPLE’S GULF COAST ACCIDENT AND INJURY FIRM!

ATTORNEY FARRELL IS COMMITTED TO PROVIDING YOU WITH

AUTHENTIC, DEDICATED, ZEALOUS REPRESENTATION AT ALL STAGES IN THE LEGAL PROCESS. The Law Office of Becky Farrell, PLLC is a respected accident and injury firm advocating for its clients across the Mississippi Gulf Coast!!! While Attorney Farrell’s focus is on Accident and Injury claims, she is a general practitioner who handles all types of cases. With 18 years of local experience, she is focused on obtaining the best compensation and outcomes for all of her clients, big or small. CALL FOR A FREE CONSULTATION:

228.467.0177 125 Main Street, Suite E | Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 48

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Celebrating

40 years Business +

in the

Announcing our 2nd location opening Long Beach, MS July 2019

Theresa Cuevas - Owner

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DIANNE MURRAY W.P. Shelton Jewelers Now celebrating over 70 years of business, W.P. Shelton’s legacy lives on through Dianne Murray. Granddaughter of the store’s founder, she represents the third generation of the family-owned business. Murray recognizes and values the trust that customers place in W.P. Shelton to make their dreams become reality and breathe new life into old pieces.

DENISE HOWELL CPA, president, Howell CPA, PA Denise Howell, the sole owner of Howell CPA, has over 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 employs one CPA, one CPA candidate and two para-professionals. DOROTHY ROBERTS Owner/designer, Robin’s Nest in the Pass Dorothy Roberts opened Robin’s Nest in the Pass, a gallery gift shop named in honor of her sister, Robin Roberts, in September 2015. Robin’s Nest has a welcoming environment where customers can find the D.Roberts Collection, as well as other artisan jewelry, art, pottery, accessories, home decor and gifts for all occasions.

ELAINE STEVENS Writer/producer, sTeVens Media Productions Elaine Stevens is an award-winning writer, producer, public relations professional and media consultant. Her cross-country career took her from New York to California in radio/television, and her experience encompasses the roles of broadcaster/voiceover, investigative reporter/anchor and the fields of documentary/television series production and development of original programming. She was the host of Art Beat and has co-authored two biographies. She currently is completing a memoir, “Mermaid in the Window.”

ELISE DEANO Attorney, Law Office of Elise Deano Elise Deano has practiced law for over 25 years on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She has a passion for helping children and families succeed and has served in a variety of roles to that end, including youth court judge in two counties and now as president of the Hancock County Community Coalition. HOLLY S. GIBBS Broker associate, J. Carter & Co. Real Estate & Development Holly Gibbs works with buyers, sellers and investors in Mississippi to assist you with your buying, selling, and investment portfolio. She is a multi-million dollar producer.

July-August 2019

ELIZABETH DILORENZO Regional marketing manager, Hancock Whitney Bank A native of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, Elizabeth DiLorenzo has worked in marketing, advertising and PR for nearly 15 years. From the nonprofit sector to the hospitality industry, DiLorenzo is now bringing her expertise to Hancock Whitney to manage marketing strategies for the state of Mississippi. HOLLY LEMOINE-RAYMOND Owner/broker/designer, HL Raymond Properties LLC With her motto of “keep it simple,” Holly Lemoine-Raymond opened her brokerage less than three years ago and has been humbled by its rapid growth and the opportunities to appear on HGTV and Great American Country on shows such as “Beach Front Bargain Hunt” and “YOU LIVE IN WHAT?”

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CELEBRATING

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NOW UNDER NEW OWNERSHIP LINSEY O’KEEFE

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July-August 2019

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Tenesha Danielle Batiste Owner BOOK NOW ONLY AT SUNCOUNTRY.COM

2018-2019 LEADERSHIP GULF COAST GRADUATE On behalf of our Faculty, Staff, and Students here at William Carey Tradition campus I want to congratulate Mrs. Jenifer Freridge for attending, and graduating from Leadership Gulf Coast. As a Leadership alumni I know how important this is and how much it helps the graduate connect with other leaders along the Gulf Coast. The Leadership program provides an outstanding insight to all that participate in the various industry, education, military, healthcare, and legal organizations along the Coast. Friendships are made that last a lifetime and the networking opportunities are limitless. Jenifer has demonstrated outstanding potential as a leader and continues to fulfill that potential day in and day out. Congratulations Jenifer, we are so proud of you and wish you continued success in the years ahead.

JENIFER FRERIDGE TRADITION CAMPUS ADVANCEMENT OFFICER

Tenesha & Company is a full service event planning firm that specializes in weddings, parties, showers, and etc. Tenesha & Company is all about the details. The firm takes excellent care of as much or as little as possible! From full event planning, linen and centerpiece rental, to day of event management and coordination, Tenesha & Company is the affordable solution to your next event. The Tenesha & Company studio is located in Gautier, MS at 4341 Gautier-Vancleave Road, Suite 8. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s by appointment only. Tenesha Danielle Batiste is the CEO and is certified in event management. She has over 12 years of event management experience and has been in business for 5 years.

4341 Gautier Vancleave Rd. | Suite 8 | Gautier, MS

Please schedule Appointment. w: teneshaandcompany.net e: tenesha@teneshaandcompany.net

228.238.8307

www.gcwmultimedia.com

JACKIE MERLAU Makeup artist, J. Merlau Makeup LLC Jackie Merlau earned her degree from Columbia College with a concentration in makeup for film and television. She has worked in Chicago, New Orleans, Paris, Los Angeles and home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She does makeup for weddings, special events, photo shoots and film and also offers lessons. Her work credits include the Cover of Gulf Coast Woman magazine, NFL Films, HGTV, Lionsgate Films and Lifetime.

JACKIE TREBOTICH-PEGODA Owner/designer, Coordinates Couture Jackie Trebotich-Pegoda grew up on the Gulf Coast and always has had a passion for decorating. She enjoys unique accessories that make a home and person sparkle. She opened Coordinates Couture in February. JEAN MCGRURY Owner, After The Proposal Weddings & Events Jean McGrury, president and founder of After The Proposal Weddings & Events, started her business from the ground up 30 years ago. In 2005, she relocated to Ocean Springs and was determined to hit the ground running, so she relaunched ATP Weddings. Over the last 13 years, her business has prospered, as well as her passion to provide clients with a one-of-a-kind experience.

JANEA MCDONALD Owner, Edge Consulting LLC Janea McDonald is passionate about helping organizations develop their human capital — their employees. Her clients understand that by developing their employees, they are giving themselves the competitive edge. In addition to over 20 years of human resource experience, McDonald also has a doctorate in human capital development, a master’s in workforce training and development and a bachelor’s in human resource management.

DR. JOANNA M. TRUS JENNY GATES Woman’s Clinic P.A. Certified financial planner, Merrill Dr. Joanna M. Trus is a fellow Jenny Gates serves on The CGS Group of the American College of OB/ at Merrill and has been a financial GYN, the Mississippi State Medadvisor for 10 years and a certified ical Association and the Society financial planner for two. She is of Laparoendoscopic and Robotpassionate about helping children ic Surgeons. She is a provider of da through CASA and Kiwanis, loves Vinci robotic surgery, normal and serving her church and enjoys yoga and high-risk obstetrics, hormone replacereading in her spare time. She and her ment therapy, vaginal rejuvenation, husband are parents to two children. O-Shot, Ideal Protein, and vampire facial services. Dr. Trus oversees the Medical Skincare and Laser Department at the Gulfport location. Doctors have privileges at Gulfport Memorial Hospital. JODE’ BRAXTON Realtor, Cameron Bell Properties In her prior career as a marketing executive, Jode’ Braxton earned years of invaluable experience managing successful advertising, marketing and public relations campaigns. That expertise, plus a strong grasp of the local market, has translated to a very successful sales record. Braxton has earned the highest-tier residential sales award annually since 2013.

July-August 2019

KAREN CREWS

Dentist, Beach View Family Dental Clinic

Dr. Karen Crews has practiced general dentistry for over 30 years. She was recognized as an outstanding University of Mississippi School of Dentistry alumna. Crews served on the faculty in the Schools of Dentistry and Medicine and is a professor emeritus in the Department of Oral Surgery and Pathology. She joined Beach View Dental in 2014 and recently served as President of District V Dental Society of the Gulf Coast.

Success Showcase sponsored by

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KATHY ROGERS Vice president, Marston Rogers Group Kathy Rogers is vice president of Marston Rogers Group, a financial services and life insurance business, and has a versatile mix of experience from 40 years as a small business entrepreneur. She has co-authored two books and is the founder and president of Adopt A Grandparent Day, board president of the Women’s Resource Center, partner in Gulf Coast Woman and a longtime volunteer at Northwood Church. KATHY VAN ZUTPHEN Attorney, Coastwide Law LLC Kathy van Zutphen is an attorney with 20 years of diverse legal experience. She opened Coastwide Law LLC with offices on the Gulf Coast and in New Orleans to help clients chart a course and handle life’s storms. Van Zutphen will work with clients to find their way out of the storm and obtain the best outcome, or opportunity, from their crisis. KELLI BELL Owner, Chillville Creamery LLC A Gulfport native, Kelli Bell has been in the local gaming industry for 25 years, venturing out on her own in 2012 as a regulatory consultant. She opened Chillville in 2018, seeing the need for this type of business and knowing it would put smiles on many faces while creating jobs for the community. LAURA HASTY President, The Ad Group Laura Hasty has been in the advertising business for over 40 years, making many advancements in the industry and winning numerous awards, including The Mississippi Gulf Coast Advertising Federation’s the Silver Medal Award. Hasty has been involved with the American Advertising Federation on a local and district level and has served as the governor of the Seventh District. She has been actively involved with the gaming industry since the arrival of dockside gaming.

Success Showcase sponsored by

KATHY SANTIAGO Director of business development, Island View Casino Resort Kathy Santiago attended nursing school but wound up taking a path that led her to a marketing career, working both in entertainment and motorsports. After relocating to Mississippi in 1992, she found herself in the gaming industry. After recovering from a double mastectomy in 2007, Santiago accepted a role dedicated to the fulltime fight against cancer, returning to the gaming industry in 2013.

KEARN CHERRY Co-owner, PRN Home Care; TV show host; co-founder, Success Women’s Conference Besides co-owning PRN Home Care for over 22 years and co-founding the Success Conference, Kearn Cherry is host of “Unwrinkled Heart Caregivers’ Journeys.” Her recent awards and recognitions include the governor’s GIVE Award for community involvement in organizations like Blessed Gyrls Rock, R.I.P.E. Conference (Resources, Information, & Planning for the Elderly), Girl Scouts state board, Rebekah’s House, the Mental Health Association, Lighthouse BPW and others. KERRI PAUL Entrepreneur, Brick & Spoon Restaurant Mompreneur Kerri Paul juggles life with three toddlers and a burgeoning career as a restaurateur, influencer and writer. She co-owns brunch restaurant Brick & Spoon and is sought after for her creative insight in entrepreneurship, motherhood and beauty. A Mombassador and contributor to the lifestyle website Mommination.com, Paul co-authored her first book, the “Unboxed” anthology, to motivate and inspire women. She also competed on CBS’s reality show The Amazing Race.

LAUREN MATTIACE Physical therapist/clinic director, PT Solutions Lauren Mattiace received her doctor of physical therapy degree from the University of Mississippi Medical Center, with additional sports medicine experience from the University of Kansas. Following physical therapy school, she completed an 18-month orthopedic residency program. Mattiace has a passion for helping others and uses this passion to assist her fellow Gulf Coast residents. www.gcwmultimedia.com

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GRAY MEETINGS AND EVENTS is a custom wedding and event planning studio based on the Gulf Coast of Louisiana and Mississippi. We offer different levels of planning services to accommodate each clients’ needs, style and budget. We plan creative events that celebrate all the special moments in life. Our passion for planning events has allowed us to experience different types of events and people. GOT AN EVENT? WE GOT YOU COVERED. LET US HELP YOU SEE THE MAGIC IN THE GRAY www.graygatherings.com

graymeetingsandevents

Gayla Jones (Co-founder), Kayla Porter, DeRae Graham, Ravin Nettles (Co-founder)

WE TAKE OUR WORK

SERIOUSLY

AND WITH MUCH PRIDE. Check out our portfolio for a glimpse into the quality of our work.

CUSTOMER SERVICE IS OUR SERVICES: OUR TOP PRIORITY.

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.

▪ Landscape Installation/ Maintenance ▪ Irrigation/Sprinkler Systems/Water Line ▪ Civil Engineering ▪ Retaining Walls ▪ Erosion Control/Riprap ▪ Hydro seeding

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MANAGERIAL CONSTRUCTION LANDSCAPE & IRRIGATION CALL EMILY SMITH TODAY

228-236-8565

CALL EMILY TODAY 228-206-7842

www.smithcontracting.us www.smithcontracting.us 56

July-August 2019

RECRUITING NOW! WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION MOORE COMMUNITY HOUSE

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JACKIEWAGE TREBOTICH-PEGODA FREE 8 WEEK TRAINING IN HIGH CAREERS!

Owner, Designer

• HANDS ON SKILLS & INDUSTRY RECOGNIZED CREDENTIALS • JOB PLACEMENT & CASE MANAGEMENT ASSISTANCE • CHILD CARE & TRANSPORTATION SUPPORT

Coordinates Couture A Celebration of Life’s Destinations

HOME DECOR, GIFTS, ACCESSORIES, AND APPAREL Thankful for the support of my family as they encouraged and helped me open Coordinates Couture. I have a passion for owning my own business with home decor, gifts, accessories, and apparel. Come see me and let me help you with all your unique gift buying ideas.

110 RUE MAGNOLIA | BILOXI | 228-207-1893 | LIKE US ON www.gcwmultimedia.com

LEKEISHA COTTEN Recording artist and founder, Gulf Coast Gospel Music Awards, LeKeisha Cotten Enterprises Award-winning recording artist and entrepreneur LeKeisha Cotten has traveled the world singing. She’s a licensed minster and has shared the stage with countless greats. Cotton also founded the Gulf Coast Gospel Music Awards, which honors individuals in the music industry. She holds awards for her incomparable voice and business accomplishments, with her success spanning over 15 years from international music competitions to TV and radio. LINSEY O’KEEFE Owner, Nezaty’s Café Linsey O’Keefe is the new owner and face of Nezaty’s Café. Having bought it from her mother-in-law, Joanne O’ Keefe, she is excited to keep the business in the family while bringing new and fresh ideas to her customers. O’Keefe has always had a passion for working with people and customer service and is excited for what the future holds with her husband and daughter at her side. LORI WEST Chief Executive Officer, Humane Society of South Mississippi Lori is a proven executive leader in organizational development, coupling her passion for community development with expertise in social enterprise in current and previous leadership positions. She is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and the Gulf Coast Business Council’s Masters Program. The wife, mother and guardian of four rescue dogs serves on several boards for local charities. MARISA SHANNON MCGEORGE Nurse practitioner/founder of The Skin Studio, Garrott Dermatology Marisa Shannon McGeorge has over 15 years’ experience as a nurse practitioner. Besides general dermatology, she also is experienced in cosmetic dermatology. McGeorge is a member of The American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and The National Academy of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners, of which she is also a board member. She is a certified aesthetic nurse specialist with expertise in Botox, Dysport, Restylane, Juvederm, microneedling and laser therapy. 58

July-August 2019

Success Showcase sponsored by

LESLIE KELLEY Vice President, Business Development, Community Bank Leslie Kelley works to effectively assist customers with their financial needs, helping to ensure their business runs efficiently while assuring cost effectiveness. Kelley is a 2013 graduate of the Mississippi School of Banking and a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast, and in 2019, she was named one of the top ten businesswomen in Mississippi. She also volunteers her time in several community organizations in different capacities. LORI ROLISON Owner/CEO, LIttle People’s Christian Academy Inc. Lori Rolison opened Little People’s in 2003 and has enjoyed 16 years of caring for and educating children (newborns to age 5, and elementary children after school). The center started with 10 children and now is at capacity with 120. The academy is now expanding to add another 120 children within the next few months. LUANN PAPPAS, Chief Executive Officer, Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort LuAnn Pappas is the CEO of Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, and her career in gaming spans over 35 years. Pappas, a New Jersey native, attributes her success to her father’s advice: “Be fair, be firm and be disciplined.” Pappas has one son, Ralph Dane, who resides in New Jersey and three puppies — Bella, Bentley and Burberry. MARY S. GRAHAM President, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Mary S. Graham was named MGCCC president in 2011. A native of Mississippi, Graham earned her doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Southern Mississippi; her master’s and bachelor’s degrees are from USM as well. As an MGCCC graduate and alumna, she embraces the philosophy of the community college and the rich tradition of excellence in education. SUCCESSFUL

WOMEN

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Mary Phillips, REALTOR Keller Williams Let MARY PHILLPS help you with your new home purchase. Her contributions to bettering neighborhoods with renovations of homes. 15 YEARS IN THE BUSINESS with continued success as top multi level awards from Gulf Coast Associations and Keller Williams Southern Region. 1st year accomplishment of adding brokers Mary Phillips Realtor 228-239-0704 MS Gulf Coast Biloxi 1710 E. Pass Road | Gulfport, MS

Brittany Kaszubowski After receiving my bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, I have had projects from residential design like new construction, and condominiums to commercial design including retirement homes and restaurants. I love making a beautiful space that’s also family friendly. A great room has form, function and where memories can be made for years to come!

Katie LaFleur Hi! My name is Katie LaFleur. I moved to the Coast with my family a few years ago. I reside with my husband and precious 3 year old son, Finn. I love this area because of the close proximity to the beach and the warm, friendly atmosphere of the community. I have extensive training in art, style and design. Residential and condo design is my specialty. It’s important to me to bring your vision together t create a home you have always dreamed of! I look forward to bringing my fresh, creative and unique perspective to new clients, both commercial and residential.

Let the award-winning furniture and design team at Southern Charm help you with all your furniture and decor needs.

(228) 206-3243 1852 E Pass Rd. | Gulfport, MS 39507

Lisa Thurmond I look forward to creating rooms that express your interests, passions and your history! Your home is an expression of the uniqueness of who you and your family are. Whether you are starting fresh, replacing a few pieces or working a family heirloom into your space, I would love to help you with your project. My passion for color, texture, balance and harmony led to a degree in Interior design from the University of Tennessee. After 20 years of design I know with a little magic of the perfect color, the right space plan and just the right piece of furniture, you will Love your home!

www.gcwmultimedia.com

MARY PHILLIPS Broker/agent, Team Phillips Mary Phillips’ passion is selling homes. She has won several multi-level awards from local real estate boards, along with many awards with Keller Williams. The reason for her drive and ambition is that she is building new buyers’ futures and gaining them equity. Phillips helps re-build communities with her investors — renovating homes and improving conditions of neighborhoods. Her goal is to set a foundation with her clients. PAIGE LUCKETT Owner/operator/event planner, Southern Flavor Catering With over 13 years of experience, Paige Luckett still gets excited about creating new menus and making others’ dreams come true. She feels rewarded to share her passion with her husband and finds it important to grow in her faith, value her family and mentor others to pursue their dreams. She also enjoys traveling to find the world’s best French fries, helping to rescue animals and doing her part to protect the planet.

MELISSA LOGOS Certified mastectomy fitter; owner, Foundations Professional Bra Fitting Melissa Logos is owner of Foundations, a business that specializes in bra fitting. Logos opened Foundations almost five years ago, and she helps women build self-confidence in their appearance. DR. PAIGE WHITE The Urology Clinic One of only two female urologists in the state of Mississippi, Dr. Paige White recently opened her new practice, The Urology Clinic, in Gulfport. Dr. White has been caring for urology patients in the state for 15 years, the last 11 on the Gulf Coast.

PEGGY SPRABERY Arts advocate, retired Peggy Sprabery began her career as a teacher and finished as owner of two businesses. As an advocate for the arts, she has served the community both locally and statewide in organizations such as Mississippi Arts Commission, GCSO, PAL, Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art, GCSO Guild, Coast Medical Alliance and Mississippi State Medical Alliance. She co-hosted the Barbecue Under the Oaks for 26 years, One Big Table for six years, and co-founded the Oaklawn Concert Society. RACHELLE SAUCIER Owner, Healing Garden Therapies Rachelle Saucier was homeschooled most of her life— waking up and going to work with her mom every morning; she learned everything from her, including bookkeeping, managing a business, answering phones and the value of hard work. Healing Garden Therapies requires a lot of team work, and Saucier says she could not do it without the amazing team, family, friends and God that help her daily.

July-August 2019

Success Showcase sponsored by

PENNY SULLIVAN Owner, Bella Grace Penny Sullivan and her husband opened Bella Grace Gifts in 2010 after Hurricane Katrina. The mother of three and grandmother of eight also is the owner of an online store and has lived on the Gulf Coast for almost 50 years. RAVIN NETTLES Co-founder/event planner, Gray Meetings and Events Ravin Nettles, along with her business partner, Gayla Jones, founded Gray Meetings and Events in 2016. Nettles has a passion for creating the best experiences for others and a background in organizing, managing and working events — including weddings, music festivals and city activities.

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Wanna talk?

Let’s have a conversation about planning for the unexpected. If you don’t have a plan, you’re planning to fail … just saying. We can help you understand your options: • College planning • Retirement planning • Life insurance • Business protection • Business exit strategy

www.marstonrogers.com Kathy P. Rogers, Life Planner kathy@marstonrogers.com cell: 228.697.0786 Office: (228) 206-5902 | Fax: (228) 206-0150 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.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

You can

get anywhere from here Do you have a vision for your future? Whether you’re the CEO of a fast-growth company, a cashier at the local grocery store or a stay-at-home parent, you need a vision. If you’re running a business, you need a vision for both yourself and your company. I’ve found there’s no such thing as “neutral” when it comes to life; either you’re going forward or backward. Develop a crystal-clear picture of the person you want to become, and let’s start working to become that person. Bonus tip: Write down your vision. You’re 72 percent more likely to achieve a goal/vision if it’s in writing. HOW DO WE GET STARTED? Leaders are readers – The average person in the United States reads two books per year, but the average CEO reads 48 books per year. Imagine if the most brilliant leaders in the world could spend a few hours with you each week and convey their decades of wisdom. This is exactly what you can absorb from reading. Warren Buffett, the richest man in the world, credits much of his success to his daily reading habit. Bonus tip: Get an Audible account to supercharge your reading. EXERCISE While reading and thinking are exercise for your brain, you also need to exercise your body. At a minimum, your body needs at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity three times per week. Most studies show the benefit of aerobic exercise and strength training on a weekly basis. Bonus tip: Get an exercise buddy to increase your accountability for trips to the gym. TAKE A BREAK Now that you’ve exercised your brain and body, make sure to get plenty of rest. You need mental breaks to allow your mind to work on the information you’ve absorbed. This is when you’ll get most of your good ideas. You’ll also need plenty of sleep (most humans need at least seven hours per night … yes, you too!). Bonus tip: Download the Headspace app for meditating and use a sleep tracker (e.g. Fitbit or Apple Watch) to monitor your sleep quality. PLAN YOUR DAYS IN ADVANCE Have you ever reached the end of a day and wondered where it all went? Plan your day the night before to ensure this doesn’t happen to you. Stop living reactively, and start living proactively. Bonus tip: Make a list of your top priorities and choose three to work on each day. Try bullet journaling for even better results.

July-August 2019

By Ryan Giles

HABU (HIGHEST AND BEST USE) After you find what you love (and what you’re good at), outsource the rest. We only have 24 hours in a day, so let’s make the most of them. To do something new, you may have to drop something old. How would you feel about outsourcing house cleaning, yard work, picking up the groceries, cooking dinner or washing your car? Bonus tip: Check Craigslist or your local chamber of commerce to find businesses that specialize in these tasks. GET A COACH It’s no accident that the best players have coaches. To accelerate your results, find a performance coach who specializes in what you’re trying to achieve. Need a free planning/vision template to help you get started? Reach out!

Need help with your marketing strategy? Give Ryan Giles a call. Giles is a CEO, professional EOS implementer, coach and author. He can be reached at Ryan@TractionStrong.com or (504) 500-1640.

Success Showcase sponsored by

There is no health without mental health Have a particular life obstacle you’re trying to overcome?

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Gulf Coast Education Solutions, LLC

Our New Location opening in Gulfport

Specialized Services for Exceptional Learners!

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OurN Our New Location Our • Montessori Preschool opening in Gulfportopenin open (ages 3-5) August 2019!! • Our New State-of-the-Art

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•• Applied AppliedBehavior Analysis Analysis •• Respite RespiteServices Services •Behavior Respite Services •• Our goal•is Dyslexia to provide a multi-disciplinary Therapyresource center for the entire community Sensory Gym (ABA) (ABA) Therapy Therapy and meet the needs of individuals with special needs. We will focus on pediatric Sensory Gym • Evaluations/Screeners therapies, but also have services available for adults. Various membership •• Dyslexia DyslexiaTherapy Therapy Various Membership packages available • Montessori Preschool (Ages 3-5) •• Occupational Occupational Therapy Therapy packages available •• • Our New Sate-of-the-Art 3,000 sq ft of Fun • Evaluations/Screeners Evaluations/Screeners Currently accepting Blue Cross Blue Sheild, Cigna, Tricare, Medicaid, • Optum, and United Health Care. We are in the process • • Physical Physical Therapy Therapy Our goal is to provide a multi-disciplinary resource center of authorization for more. Contact our Saucier location for more information: for the entire community and meet the needs of individuals Contact our Saucier location for more information: with special needs. We will focus on pediatric therapies, (228) 806-0616 23272 Hwy. 49 | Frontage Rd., Ste. C but also have services available for adults. 23272 Hwy 49 Frontage Rd. Ste. C

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REBECA FAIRLEY President, Panache Apparel & Accessories Rebeca Fairley has worked retail since she was 15 and hoped to open her own shop one day. She has operated Panache for 13 years.

RITA BLENMAN Group sales manager, Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort Rita Blenman is a marketing, hospitality and community enthusiast who has worked in several Gulf Coast markets. She serves on the Mississippi Center for Autism and Related Developmental Disabilities board of directors. She has received awards and recognition for selling techniques, customer dedication and personality.

RHONDA WEIDNER News anchor/reporter, WLOX TV For 30 years, South Mississippi has been waking up to Rhonda Weidner’s familiar smile and voice. She is host of Good Morning Mississippi and WLOX TV’s 11 a.m. Midday show. Weidner is involved with numerous organizations such as the American Cancer Society and Humane Society. She was named Lighthouse BPW Outstanding Career Woman in 2000, ACS Woman of the year in 2007 and Success Women’s Conference Woman of Achievement in 2016.

DR. SHAHIRA HANNA Woman’s Clinic P.A Dr. Shahira Hanna specializes in robotic gynecological surgery. Dr. Hanna provides services in all aspects of obstetrics and gynecology, and she is a fellow of the American College of OB/GYN and a member of the American Medical Association and Mississippi State Medical Association.

SHELIA RIVERS Owner and chief licensed certified social worker, Rivers Psychotherapy Services Shelia Rivers has been a mental health professional for 12 years and provides counseling services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups. Rivers is passionate about breaking the stigma regarding mental health and developing mentally healthy individuals.

July-August 2019

Success Showcase sponsored by

ROBIN KILLEEN Founder, Women of Wisdom (WOW) Robin Killeen is founder of Women of Wisdom, a marketplace ministry that empowers women from all backgrounds and was established in 1999. Previously, she was a regional manager in the staffing industry for over 24 years. Robin was the 2015 recipient of the Lucimarian Roberts Award and most recently a published author along with 24 other women across the Mississippi Gulf Coast. SHARON WEEKS Owner, Grants for Her For years, Sharon Weeks worked part-time in the world of fashion merchandising. Six years ago, she became manager/buyer of Grants for Her, a high-end boutique at Mary Mahoneys. One year ago, she and her daughter became owners of Grants for Her. Weeks attends market in New York and Los Angeles several times a year to find clothing and jewelry that appeal to the Coast’s most fashionable women. SHERRY OWEN Broker/Owner, Owen & Co. LLC Real Estate Sherry Owen has deep family roots in the real estate industry on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She is known for her commitment to her clients, professionalism and knowledge of the Coast’s residential and commercial real estate market.

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CELEBRATING 80 YEARS!

MARISA SHANNON McGEORGE, NP-C,C.A.N.S.

TRACIE MARIE STRAYHAM, OWNER 2018-19 GRADUATE OF LEADERSHIP GULF COAST

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. ~ Proverbs 3:5-6

“Success is loving what you do, having a great support team, and possessing the drive to make things happen.”

at Garrott Dermatology

PROUD TO BE A

MAJORITY WOMAN-OWNED BUSINESS CONTINUING A FAMILY TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE.

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SONYA WILLIAMS BARNES State representative, Mississippi House District 119; vice president, Lockett Williams Mortuary Inc. Known for stepping forward to make a difference, Sonya Williams Barnes was born into a family in which community service and concern for others were part of the daily routine. She is vice president of Lockett-Williams Mortuary. As a state legislator, she champions public education and changing of the Confederate emblem in the state flag. STACEY O’CONNELL Chief financial officer, Garden Park Medical Center and Lakeview Regional Medical Center Stacey O’ Connell holds a bachelor’s from the University of South Alabama and an MBA from the University of Southern Mississippi. O’ Connell serves on the boards of the United Way of South Mississippi and the Boys & Girls Clubs of South Mississippi.

STARR CHAPMAN Partner, Rum Kitchen and Bellame Beauty Starr Chapman is the creator of The Hemingway Festival, which has earned her the Restaurant Neighbor Award for Mississippi and a place in the national finals. She sits on the boards of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce, Hancock Republican Women’s Club and St. Clare Church. She is affiliated with the Music, Arts and Practicality (MAP) program and Hancock County Relay for Life. SUSIE DAVIS Owner/Consultant, A Plan to Remember Susie Davis has been a leader in the Coast wedding and event industry for 12 years. She has a marketing degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and uses it often to help others jumpstart their small businesses. A mother of two and board member of Lighthouse BPW, Davis is passionate about health and wellness and empowering women, actively working with local nonprofits to help assist with fundraising projects and implementing conferences and larger events.

STEPHANIE SHAW S3 leadership and Consulting; creator, Head and Heart Alignment Stephanie Shaw has married her professional success, life experiences and talents as a coach and public speaker. While doing so, she has created the Head and Heart Alignment workshop, which teaches others how to simplify and focus their daily lives to sustain motivation and overcome obstacles to create the life they truly desire. TARA WHITE Nurse practitioner, Coast Cardiology Tara White is a lifelong Gulf Coast resident. She always has had a passion for cardiac care. She is a board certified family nurse practitioner and received her bachelor of science in nursing, as well as her master’s in nursing, from the University of South Alabama. She has worked in cardiology for 16 years. 66

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STACEY MAGNUSEN Owner, Captain Al’s Steak and Seafood Working alongside her brother, Albert, Stacey Magnusen has developed their family-owned business into a legacy. Magnusen celebrates Captain Al’s 26th year of success by continuing her father’s tradition of the original steak and shrimp restaurant. Her passion for the service industry began at age 13.

TENESHA DANIELLE BATISTE CEO, Tenesha & Company Tenesha Danielle Batiste is the CEO of Tenesha & Company, a full-service event planning firm, and chief human resources officer for the city of Moss Point. She has served in various leadership capacities, such as president of Theta Zeta Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., charter president of Kiwanis Club of Moss Point, president of TZO Ivy Foundation and charter member of Gulf Coast chapter of The Links, Inc.

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You get what you GIVE

I decided at the beginning of my legal career that I didn’t want to be a litigator. The adversarial nature of trial lawyers just rubbed my spirit the wrong way. I argued one motion for summary judgment as a first-year attorney and won. I decided to end my litigator career while I had a 100 percent success rate in court. Don’t get me wrong — I am not afraid to fight for what I believe in. I just decided I did not want an entire career built around fighting. I love transactional work because its outcome is creating something desirable. While disputes may arise from time to time, dispute is not the nature of the business. As I have matured, I have a greater appreciation for peace. I have a very hot temper and have lost too many joyful moments being angry and blowing up over stupid things. In my quest for perpetual Zen, I have learned that keeping calm creates calm. I have become more mindful and deliberate about being the peace I want to receive. You get what you give. When you give anger, you get it back in return. When you give pettiness, you get pettiness in return. When you give drama an audience, you give it permission to steal your peace. You get what you give. Give peace, and you will receive it. Giving peace is easier said than done. Sometimes you really want to give someone a piece of your mind. That piece may be filled with vitriol, indignation and a few colorful words — and that piece takes pieces of you with it. Most of those you give it to aren’t worth the investment. You don’t get what you deserve in return. Life is a series of investments. If you are not careful, you will go through life at a deficit because you have invested your energy in people and experiences that don’t yield a return. Your joy account is severely overdrawn because you have expended all your energy in situations that drain your spirit and deplete your will. At some point, you must choose only to invest in people and experiences that appreciate you … and appreciate with time. It is that simple, yet that complex. There are three reasons that we con68

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sciously (but more often subconsciously) continually invest in losing experiences: guilt, misplaced responsibility and unmindfulness. Most of us have a conscience that creates unconscious obligations. We mistake a bad investment for karma. We think we must honor our word at all times and do unto others as we want them to do to us. We do — but we don’t. I am not advocating being mean or shirking obligations. I am advocating giving a good-faith effort but cutting off the investment when it is withdrawing more than it is depositing. Self-preservation often is mistaken and mischaracterized as selfishness. This misnomer often is assigned by the selfish person who has the audacity to protest you looking out for you. Giving to the point of destruction is selfish. When you give all to people and situations that don’t deserve you, you have nothing left to give those who love and appreciate you — and that is just wrong! Misplaced responsibility also deprives us of joy. We think because someone is a good person, we must help him. This is a good cause, so we must contribute to it. This is a good job, so we need to kill ourselves to be good at it. The truth is, all things that are good are not good for you. We create responsibility where there is none. We create this false responsibility especially when it comes to people. We are not responsible for how others receive us, what they think of us or whether they are happy. You are not responsible for anyone on this earth but you. You are responsible to do your best, do what is right and do what you are capable of without destroying your spirit — period. Unmindfulness is the biggest culprit. We are destroying ourselves and don’t even realize it. Mindfulness is the “quality or state of being conscious or aware of something.” Awareness is the key to joy. You must be aware of what brings you joy, but you must be equally aware of what steals your joy. Mindfulness also is achieved when you are aware of the present moment and aware of that moment’s impact on your feelings, thoughts

Success Showcase sponsored by

and bodily By Dr. Stephanie Barnes sensations. When we are not mindful of how people and situations affect us, we are allowing those people and situations to define us. We are giving power away because we are not acknowledging the power of our own feelings, thoughts and sensations. Stop that! Mindfulness has been one of the greatest gifts I’ve given myself. I have committed to being mindful of how I feel, what I am thinking and how those thoughts and feelings are manifesting in my body. Stress, dissatisfaction and disappointment have real impacts on our physiology, and many studies support this fact. We literally are killing ourselves because we are unmindful of how our daily choices are affecting us. We should be mindful of what gets our attention — and then decide whether to continue. Whether it’s guilt, misplaced responsibility or unmindfulness, merely acknowledging the cause is worthless unless we embrace being deliberate. Being deliberate is mindfulness plus action. You become aware, and then you decide to do something. If you are aware that certain people never appreciate what you do for them, decide to stop the losing investment. If you are aware that certain situations drain your joy, decide to stop doing them. If you are aware that certain people bring joy to your life, decide to invest more in them. If you are aware that certain activities warm your whole soul, decide to do more of them. You get what you give. If you want more peace, be more peaceful. If you want to get more appreciation, be mindful of where you sow and what you reap. Your life is the product of your choices. You get what you deserve in life when you decide to act like you deserve it. Stephanie D. Barnes is an attorney, author, speaker and career strategist. She can be reached at stephanie@drstephaniedbarnes.com, or visit www.drstephaniedbarnes.com.

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THERESA CUEVAS TIFFANY BELL Owner, Forget-Me-Not Florist Executive director, Women’s Resource Center Theresa Cuevas grew up watching her As the executive director of mother design floral arrangements the Women’s Resource Center, and has spent 40 years perfecting Tiffany Bell has over 15 years her craft and developing a keen of experience in community sense of business. She took over outreach and leadership training. the business in 2010 and has expandShe is an honorary commander for ed the flower shop into a gift shop. In the 81st Training Wing of Keesler her hometown of Long Beach, a second Air Force Base, co-director of Success location is set to open this summer. Cuevas is active in her community, supporting local Women’s Conference, co-chair of Lighthouse Business and Professional Women and treasurer of Orange Grove Kiwanis Club, schools, charities and other organizations. as well as a recent graduate of the 2019 Leadership Gulf Coast. TINA SEYMOUR DEMORAN TISH WILLIAMS Owner, Seymour Law Firm Executive director, Hancock PLLC and ProfessionalChamber of Commerce Expert Consulting LLC Tish Williams has served as exTina Seymour Demoran ecutive director of the Hancock started her firm with the Chamber for 17 years. She also goal of providing affordable manages the Hancock Commuand professional legal sernity Development Foundation and vices to Mississippi. With over Partners for Stennis & Michoud. She 50 years of experience in the has been recognized with numerous medical, legal and business fields, leadership awards, including the Sun she and her attorneys assist families with their probate, Herald Top Ten Community Leaders in South Mississippi, family law, criminal, bankruptcy, real estate, and estate the United States Small Business Administration Phoenix planning needs and serve residents throughout Mississippi. Award and the Jody Compretta Person of Passion Award. TRACIE STRAYHAM TRINA CUCCIA President, Lamey Electric Branch manager/mortgage loan Tracie Strayham is a wife, mother originator, GMFS Mortgage and entrepreneur whose success is As the branch manager/mortgage illuminated through her faith loan originator for GMFS Mortand family. As president of gage, Trina Cuccia has always Lamey Electric Inc., she heads understood the value of hard work the oldest electrical contracting and dedication. Making homeownbusiness on the Gulf Coast, which ership dreams come true for the past prides itself on honesty and integrity in 24 years has been her heart’s desire. She every job. The company will be celebrating has enjoyed being a Mississippi Gulf Coast 80 years in January. Strayham is a 2018-19 Leadership Gulf resident for 35 years and spends her spare time traveling, Coast graduate. going to the theatre and being with family. TWANA MARX Jewelry Designer, Creative VICKI HOWARD Marx Co-owner/color consultant, Twana Marx founded Creative Howard’s Paint and Marx over 10 years ago, and Decorating Gulf Coast clientele is her main Vicki Howard has worked focus. She also maintains a base with her husband, Mark, of celebrity clients, and her work in their business for over 25 has been featured at several awards years. shows and red carpet events. Marx also is a full-time imaging informatics professional in the healthcare IT sector. Her love for both fashion and radiology affords her the opportunity to travel, network and share her creativity with the world. 70

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Women, it’s time … In 1920, women got the right to vote. In 2020, it’s time for Harrison County to elect its first female Constable.

ON AUGUST 6TH please vote for

ANGEL KIBLER-MIDDLETON A proven, honest, hardworking, dedicated public servant.

Angel is a lifelong resident of District 2 and was elected to the Harrison County Board of Supervisors in 2015. She served on the board of the Harrison County Utility Authority from 2016 until 2019. She was the President of the Board of Supervisors in 2018. She has owned Angel’s Auto Sales for over 20 years.

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AMBER OLSEN Founder, Nextaff Gulf Coast Outside of her company, Amber Olsen is the mother of a child diagnosed with multiple sulfatase deficiency. She formed United MSD Foundation and travels the world searching for treatment to help others like her child. Her community involvement has included the Singing River Chapter of the American Business Women’s Organization, Ocean Springs Rotary Club, the Gulf Coast Human Reserve Association, the Gulf Coast Chamber and Women Entrepreneurs Gulf Coast (founder).

ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE, Certified public accountant; professional workers’ compensation account manager; president, SouthGroup Insurance Angelyn Treutel Zeringue specializes in commercial, personal and life insurance as a Trusted Choice independent insurance agent. She is a fan of technology, social media, insurance and finance, and she is a mother, daughter, wife, speaker, influencer, volunteer, community leader, mentor, person of passion, caregiver and entrepreneur.

CARA PUCHEU CFO/controller, LP Construction Management Inc., SourcePointe of MS Besides being the councilwoman for Ward 7 in Gulfport, Cara Pucheu and her husband own multiple businesses and focus mainly on commercial real estate development. She retired from UPS and went into entrepreneurship. Her businesses include a human resources and accounting firm, licensed insurance agency, property management and small business consultant firm specializing in company start-ups/payroll options and state license application processing. ELLA HOLMES-HINES Councilwoman, Ward 3, Gulfport City Council Ella Holmes-Hines, who has 20 years of public service experience, holds a bachelor of science degree, business administration, from the University of Southern Mississippi; a master’s of business administration, University of Southern Mississippi; international business studies diploma, University of New Orleans; and an associates degree, electrical technician, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College - Jackson County. JANICE JEFFERSON Director of sales, Visit Mississippi Gulf Coast Janice Jefferson’s career in the hospitality industry began 31 years ago when she joined the Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center and was a member of the inaugural Leadership Gulf Coast class. After working in Houston, Miami, and Birmingham, Jefferson returned to the area, and in her present position, she is responsible for directing her sales team as they grow the destination’s market share in groups, conventions and sporting events.

July-August 2019

Success Showcase sponsored by

CHRISTINE COKER Associate research and extension professor in urban horticulture, Mississippi State University Dr. Christine Coker is an 18-year member of the Mississippi State University Coastal Research and Extension Center. She regularly mentors students of all ages, and her community involvement includes Loaves and Fishes, the Mississippi Farm to School Network and Lighthouse Business and Professional Women, as well as regularly volunteering for the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi and Harrison County Soil and Water Conservation District.

ELLIS ANDERSON Publisher and editor, The Shoofly Magazine Ellis Anderson is owner of Ellis Anderson Media LLC, which consults on using new media to support and enhance community-building projects. Anderson has 25 years’ experience in creating and implementing community-building concepts. Her book, “Under Surge, Under Siege, the Odyssey of Bay St. Louis and Katrina,” was published by University Press of Mississippi and won the 2010 Eudora Welty Book Prize and the Mississippi Library Association Non-Fiction Author’s Award.

SUCCESSFUL

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RACHEL HESTER Owner, iBi Marketing Solutions & QR Blvd. Rachel Hester is an entrepreneur at heart. Her mission has been to grow the Mississippi, Alabama and Florida 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.

VELMA JOHNSON Federal programs coordinator, Gulfport School District Velma Johnson is committed to working with the youth in her school district and church parish and to helping improve her community’s quality of life by encouraging and promoting physical fitness. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of South Alabama. Her community involvement includes Leadership Gulf Coast, Kiwanis, Junior Auxiliary and her church.

TINA PERKINS Tina Perkins CPA Tina Perkins entered the professional world as a government contract auditor and has been a certified public accountant since 1991. A wife and mother of two, she opened her own business in 1996, Tina Perkins CPA — moving to the present D’Iberville location about three years ago. Guided by income tax laws, she works with small business owners and others to help them maximize their after-tax dollars and build their net worth. JANIE O’KEEFE Executive director, O’Keefe Educational Media/Disability Connection Janie O’Keefe is the founding director of O’Keefe Educational Media. She developed Disability Connection with a mission to “create a connected community, to inform, assist, and participate in collaborations that engage individuals with disabilities, eliminate barriers and foster cooperation and understanding.” She holds a bachelor of science degree from Texas Tech University and worked in television and radio for 30 years.

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JENNIFER LEWANDO SUTTON, DVM Jennifer is a 1998 graduate • 1998 Graduate of of Louisiana Louisiana State State University of Veterinary University School Medicine. She does a lot of

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eing an entrepreneur offers freedom, flexibility, and a feeling of achievement — all great things, right? No one is ever prepared for the failures, stresses and total accountability of owning your own business. I opened my insurance agency, IDR, in October of 2018. I did not always see myself in the insurance field. I was introduced to a career in the industry in 2012. I had several close family members and friends in the business, and their love for their customers and daily passion to take care of their customers’ needs drew me closer and closer to exploring insurance and all that it offers as a career. All I ever wanted was to open a business and help people; I just had to determine the best way to do that and also enjoy what I am doing. Before opening my agency, I did years of research while working in the industry and learning the ins and outs of insurance. To give your customer the best service and most accurate information, you must be an expert at your craft. I advise anyone thinking about entrepreneurship to research everything associated with your new venture — including the cost of goods, material suppliers, the cost of utilities at a commercial location, customer traffic in a commercial area and everything else that will affect your business’s growth and impact in the community. Too many people open businesses without proper research, encounter obstacles they are unable to overcome and end up closing. To give yourself the best chance of success, research, research, research! Your new business is your baby. Make sure you know as much as possible in advance to prepare and focus on building and growing. I wouldn’t trade 76

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entrepreneurship. Due to substantial research beforehand, the bumps along the road have not hurt as badly, and my business has stayed on track. My biggest challenge since opening has been maintaining balance. I am first and foremost a devoted wife and mother who is very active in many organizations while constantly growing my business and expanding in neighboring states. Plus, I’m still serving my country via the Air National Guard. Talk about a woman who wears many hats! I have overcome this challenge by finally learning how to say “no” and committing to time with my family. Having an amazing and supportive spouse also has helped alleviate the guilt of trying to balance business and home life. My advice would be to understand the grind is necessary, but as you become stable in your business, remember the “why” behind it. Your family needs you just as much as your company. Courtney Jacobs is the insurance agent and owner of IDR Agency in Biloxi. You can reach her at (228) 273-4062.

Success Showcase sponsored by

An incorrect photograph of the Leadership Hancock County class of 2019 was published in the June edition. We regret the error. The correct image is below.

LEADERSHIP HANCOCK CLASS OF 2019

Leadership Hancock County’s most recent graduates are: Tanna Adam, RE/MAX Coast Delta Realty; Maureen Anderson, Hancock County; Jennifer Baxter, Hancock County Library System; Cynthia Burnett, Coast Electric Power Association; Steve Covington, Hancock County School System; Angela Crawford, Coast Electric Power Association; ColbyDiMento, The Focus Group; Brittany Fortmayer, Giving Tree Senior Care Options; Anna Claire Giles, Lazy Magnolia Brewing Co.; Akemi Gilliam, The First, ANBA; Tequilla Hall, Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services; KaitlinJewell, Hope Haven; Kevin Ladner, Hancock County; Jason Lee, Hancock County School System; Katie Lee, Hancock County; Kendra McArthur, Silver Slipper Casino and Hotel; Michael McCauley, Mississippi Department of Human Services; Obie McClure, Hancock County Board of Supervisors; Angela Myers, The First, ANBA; Catherine Pitalo, Hancock Resource Center; Pajge Ruff, Boys & Girls Club of Hancock Co.; Bruce Spencer, SABIC; John Studstill, Compton Engineering; HenryTebbe, Retired; Timmy Thrash, Ochsner, Medical Center - Hancock

“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

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13 Years of Success!

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MEN BESIDE SUCCESSFUL WOMEN

George Williams admires wife’s talent, loyalty

Scott and Andria Allen

Scott Allen loves being his wife’s teammate Tish and George Williams

Reflecting on his nearly 30-year marriage, George Williams sees a foundation of mutual respect that has kept it strong. When he met his wife, Tish Haas Williams, who is executive director of the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, he was director of tourism for Mississippi, which was hosting the Miss USA pageant. Tish, who studied journalism at the University of Mississippi, was an intern working in the Miss USA press room for the Gulf Coast Host Committee. Seeing how she handled exposure to national media, George recognized he was in the presence of a special woman and was attracted to her beauty and intelligence. “I believe in her skills and ability to tackle big jobs and conduct those jobs with perfection and expediency,” he says. “My belief and confidence in her ability and hers in me provides mutual enthusiasm in our partnership.” The pair celebrated 29 years together on June 16 and have raised twin daughters. In that time, George says her success has never made him feel insecure. “We have always been a team, and we share equally is each other’s success,” he says. “Success for one is success for two!” Tish is “truly great,” he adds, due to her dedication to her work and her loyalty to the organizations she has worked for. Not only does she believe in their mission, according to her husband, but she has the self-confidence needed to help the organizations she serves thrive and meet their goals. “She builds a following of believers, and she readily seeks advice from everyone involved,” George says, “which makes for a shared success for everyone.” 78

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Being true partners, says Scott Allen of Allen Automotive, makes his marriage thrive. “We work together on everything,” adds Allen, who has been married to his wife, Andria, for five years. “From the Hyundai dealership to my public speaking, our kids or keeping up around the house, we are always on the same team.” When the pair met, Andria had just moved home after living in the Washington, D.C., area. Scott was working at a Toyota store at the time and quickly became smitten. “In walked this beautiful, smart, educated woman, and I knew the Lord made that woman for me …,” Scott says. “It’s not often you meet someone who has so much going for her and still manages to give you butterflies with the slightest look.” Today, Scott says he and Andria support each other fully and share credit for their successes. For instance, when his wife decided to pursue her master’s in business administration, Scott encouraged her to go to Tulane rather than a more convenient option. That meant driving to class with her and staying in the cafeteria with their newborn. “I know that she is capable and love watching her tackle problems large and small,” he says. “In a great relationship, you elevate each other.” In running their automotive business together, Scott describes Andria as finance minded while he’s geared toward marketing. When he’s pitching “the next big idea,” he adds, she serves as the voice of reason. “From the way she guides our two beautiful daughters to the way she handles me when I’m fired up, she always knows how to handle a situation,” Scott says. “She’s a great balance for me, and vise-versa.”

BEVERLY MARTIN Office sought: Harrison County supervisor, District One

Women in

ANGEL KIBLER-MIDDLETON Office sought: Harrison County Constable, District 2 Many people misunderstand what a constable’s duty entails. Despite the uniform and badge that some wear, it is a community service job at which anyone – man or woman – can be successful. Timely delivery of summons is a key factor for our judicial process to run smoothly and efficiently. Although I am an NRA member that is an enhanced carry permit holder for firearms, the job requires you to be the people’s warrior. I will serve with a strong work ethic along with respect for all of the people that I will serve.

Candidates share the most important message they want to convey.

ANGEL MYERS MCILRATH Office sought: District attorney for the 19th Circuit Court District

I am committed to vigilantly protecting the innocent, while vigorously prosecuting violent offenders, sexual predators, those who prey on our children, habitual offenders, and drug dealers who push poison into our community. I am also committed to helping those non-violent offenders who we can help, while holding them accountable through alternative sentencing options like Pre-Trial Diversion and Drug Court. I will continue to ensure that the rights and dignity of our crime victims are protected. I care about this community and the safety and well-being of everyone who lives, works, and visits here.

CONNIE LADNER Office sought: Harrison County circuit clerk (second term, unopposed)

Your vote is your voice! When you don’t vote, you silence yourself and allow someone else to speak for you. Brave men and women have fought and died for this great country and the freedoms we share. Election Day is always an important day that gives us the opportunity to have a voice in who will be representing us at the city, county, state and federal levels of government. Take the time to research each candidate to make sure they represent your values, and then make an informed decision by voting. Every vote matters!

I love serving the citizens of Harrison County and appreciate all of their support. My door is always open, and my phone is always on. This will continue with my next term.

DIANA LADNER Office sought: Supervisor, District 5

This is not a job that I need, but one that I want. It is in my heart to do the best for the residents of District 5 and Hancock County.

CONNIE M. ROCKO Office sought: Supervisor, District 5, Harrison County Board of Supervisors

To bring the county, city and state to their full potential, we must reach out locally and nationally. We face infrastructure, environmental, social and health challenges that can affect our economic growth and quality of life. I have the experience and resources necessary to help Harrison County have a successful future. We must be creative and forward thinking. Leadership is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way, and I am that person for Harrison County.

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Women in DIXIE NEWMAN Office sought: Mississippi State Senate, District 50

It is your voice, your vote. The people you elect should not already have an agenda. You elect them to represent you and your voice in the capital. I am going around listening to my district’s concerns and want to take those same concerns with me to the capital, like finally making animal abuse a felony. DEBORAH JEANNE DAWKINS Office sought: Mississippi State Senate, District 48

Prepare for the future. To do this, our state leaders must put aside old ideas and biases that hold our citizens back from success. For example, I am a faithful promoter of the Stennis flag, designed by Lauren Stennis. The place for the current flag is in a museum. Symbols are important in any society, and the current flag is a deterrent in so many ways.

GRETA GUTHANS Office sought: Jackson County coroner

A medical background does matter in the coroner’s office. While it may not be required by the state, it should be required and demanded by the people of their county.

JUDITH REDSHAW Office sought: Justice Court judge in place 3, Hancock County

I always have believed that those who come before the court need a chance to rehabilitate. By requiring those jailed for drug use or sale to attend drug rehab classes, it will help them stay away from the drug world and make a good life for themselves and their families. I believe that to succeed once they have served their sentence, they should receive technical and/or vocational training.

PAULA LADNER Office sought: Tax assessor of Harrison County

KELLY HARTFIELD GRIFFIN Office sought: Harrison County Tax Collector

Harrison County is my home, and I want the best for those who choose to live and work here. As the next tax collector, I want to offer a pleasant and user-friendly experience to the taxpayers of Harrison County. I plan to accomplish that by offering great customer service, streamlining the process of paying taxes and purchasing tags, working hand in hand with other county departments, creating an enjoyable work environment and exploring new alternatives to better serve the great residents of Harrison County.

July-August 2019

KENDRA “KK” LADNER NECAISE Office sought: Hancock County circuit clerk

The circuit clerk’s office carries out many important public functions for the county, to include the areas of elections, marriage licenses, civil and criminal court records and county court administration. It is very important that each of these functions is handled properly to ensure the accuracy of public records. With over 31 years of experience working in every department of the clerk’s office, I am the only qualified candidate who is ready to go to work as your circuit clerk on day one. I have been circuit clerk trained, and I am circuit clerk ready!

As your next tax assessor, I promise to serve the citizens of Harrison County with integrity, impartiality and professionalism. I humbly ask for your vote on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

PATRICIA H. WILLIS Office sought: Mississippi House of Representatives, District 95

Your vote is important. Make it count for you!

DR. INEZ M. KELLEHER Office sought: Mississippi State House of Representatives, District 117

This is the first time in over 20 years that the people in District 117 will have a choice at the polls. I was not chosen by a group, a corporation or a party to run for this position. I chose to do this. I am running to represent the people of my district — all the people. The only way we can make change … is to make a change. One small act can make a big difference.

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Women in ROSIE ROBERTSON Office sought: Harrison County coroner

LYNN FITCH Office sought: Attorney general

My campaign is based on my proven record as your state treasurer. I will run this race based on honest, hard work and pledge to you that my campaign, like my others, will be positive regardless of what any other candidate might do. I want to present to you my positive vision as your first female attorney general, and I encourage you to visit my website, www.LynnFitchforMS.com, to learn more.

SONYA WILLIAMS BARNES Office sought: Re-election to Mississippi House District 119

More women should run for office. It’s no longer just a man’s world when women are heads of households and many times the sole providers of their households. We must not just make our mark, but we must take our place in the governing of our society. We have the compassion and the intellect — and that’s a powerful combination.

July-August 2019

If elected, I will build a diverse team of qualified investigators to provide our families with compassion, as well as closure and dignity.

NANCY C. DEPREO Office sought: Mississippi House of Representatives District 95

SHEILA JACKSON OSGOOD Office sought: Justice Court judge District II

Mississippi is a state rich in culture that has impacted the world. As Mississippians, we need to embrace our culture, share our accomplishments and focus of what we have to offer. We need to be that beacon shining in the Southeast directing new industry, infrastructure and opportunity. I’m ready to work hard to keep that light shining as your representative, District 95.

KITTY SEYMOUR SWETMAN Office sought: Jackson County coroner I will bring the compassion and empathy needed to help families cope with the loss of a loved one. She has the medical experience needed to correspond with doctors and pathologists.

Every person is important. You deserve to be heard and understood. Each situation is unique and should be treated as such. You matter. I will continue to uphold the law, but I also will continue to use discretion to give each person a fair judgment and a chance to start over when the law allows.

TAMMY GARBER Office sought: Circuit clerk, Hancock County My plans are to bring innovative ideas and modernization of services to the circuit clerk’s office through technology enhancements and to maintain the professionalism you have come to expect.

WENDY MCDONALD Office sought: Mississippi House, District 122

I believe that funding education properly will have a positive, long-term economic impact on the state, improve job opportunities for residents, create a more marketable workforce and improve the quality of life for everyone.

Submissions were not received for the following candidates: Teresa Ehrlich (Justice Court judge, place 2) Lynn Smith (Justice Court judge, place 3), Carole Ann Burnett-Fagan (coroner, Jackson County), Ramona Lee Armstrong (tax collector, Jackson County), Stephanie Tagert (tax collector, Jackson County), Theresa Ryan (Supervisor, District 1, Hancock County), Suzette Breland (Judge, District 4), Dianne Ladner (Justice Court Judge, District 3), Carolyn Crawford (Mississippi House, District 121) and Rebecca Powers (Harrison County Supervisor, District 2).

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Suiting up for SPACE

Just shy of a year into McDougle’s time with CEE, Jemison was assigned to her mission. “Who would have ever thought a Gulf Coast native prepared first little girl from Moss Point, Mississipblack female astronaut for flight pi, would be part of such an historic moment?” marvels McDougle. “I was By Jennifer Gentile very fortunate to be at this place in my career.” She recalls working closely As the nation commemorates man’s with Jemison during her pre-launch first steps on the moon 50 years ago, training, on the actual launch day and a Moss Point trailblazer is reflecting during the astronaut’s landing — takon another milestone in the space ing care of her crew escape equipment program. that included her suit, helmet, gloves, When Dr. Mae Jemison became the boots, liquid cooling garment and first black woman to travel in space, writing utensils. flying aboard the space shuttle En“Mae is an amazing woman — indeavor in 1992, Gulf Coast native Shatelligent, cool, personable, as well ron Caples McDougle also cemented as beautiful,” McDougle says. “We her place in history. As a leader enjoyed working with each other and in the Space Shuttle Crew Escape got along great, lots of laughing and Equipment (CEE) department, talking — felt like family.” McDougle suited Jemison up for While astronauts typically are her journey. nauseous and need assistance upon “I wanted to make sure she was Jemison left, McDougle, right landing, McDougle recalls Jemison well taken care of and didn’t want being an exception. her to have any worries,” says “To my surprise, it seemed like space travel did not affect McDougle, who now lives in Houston with her family. “We her at all!” she says. “Mae walked off the shuttle like she was were both the only African American women in our respective fields and would be making history together. This mission just walking in from another room on a regular day.” The astronaut recognized McDougle and other women at her was definitely the most special moment of my career.” Women of Color in Flight event, and McDougle’s trophy from That career was made possible by McDougle’s seven years the celebration now has a spot on her mantel. in the Air Force, which she calls “one of the best moves I When the space shuttle program ended in 2011, so did could’ve made as a young woman.” During her first assignMcDougle’s illustrious 22-year career. Her accomplishments ment at Beale Air Force Base in California, she inspected earned her numerous accolades, including the Astronaut and maintained flight equipment used for the SR-71 and U-2 “Silver Snoopy” Award, a Women of Color in Flight award, a missions. Lifetime Achievement Living Legend Award from the Moss “I sized and fitted crewmembers’ pressure suits, assisted Point Visionary Circle and Mississippi Trailblazer awards. crewmembers in donning and doffing their suits and perBeing a “go-getter” with a firm grasp of time management formed functional tests before takeoff,” McDougle recalls. was ingrained in McDougle’s character from a young age. “I also loaded the survival seat kits and parachutes into the After losing both of her parents by the age of 7, she lived with aircraft, strapped in the crewmembers before takeoff and her eldest sister and her family. She became responsible for a recovered the crew upon landing.” host of household chores, which she credits with making her When McDougle was honorably discharged from the “the woman I am today.” service, her specialized skillset made her a perfect fit for a “I pride myself on being one of the most reliable people job at Boeing Aerospace. She started her career as a CEE suit you’ll ever meet …,” McDougle says. “Also, being supportive technician, she says – responsible for processing the iconic orange launch and entry suits worn by all NASA space shuttle of others (is important); teamwork is a must. I made sure I learned as much as I could to be able to help others and help astronauts. A few years later, she was promoted to crew chief our team be the best.” – becoming the first black crew chief in CEE. To reach their full potential, women must be willing to ask “In my new position I was responsible for leading a team for help, she says — and they must be open to growth and of technicians to suit up astronaut crews,” she says. “My team change. supported suited training, launch, and landing events. … “We tend to take care of everyone else and put ourselves on As crew chief, I had the honor of leading the first and only all-female suit tech crew.” Later, she would advance to become the back burner,” McDougle adds. “And remember, it’s never manager of the CEE processing department — leading a team too late. We can achieve whatever we want, if we really want it, at any age.” of 25-plus employees.

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INFLUENCERS When the Success Women’s Conference returns for its fifth year from Sept. 1921, the event once again will recognize the region’s Top Influencers – true “game-changers” who have made an impact through their talent and selfless dedication. The following 36 women will be honored during the conference for their transformative impact on their communities. One woman will be named The Coast’s Most Influential Woman, and an an upand-coming leader will be named a One-to-Watch Influencer.

2. ANGEL MIDDLETON Owner, Angel’s Auto Sales; supervisor, Harrison County, District 2. “Having served as supervisor for District 2, I know the area and its people like no one else. In that position I have learned how much our county can serve people in need, including women, children, elderly and impoverished citizens.”

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1. ALEXIS L. WILLIAMS Group noncommissioned officer in charge, Training Resources Flight, 81st Training Support, Squadron, Keesler Air Force Base; cofounder, The Melanin Village; owner, Aloha Glamour. “I am most passionate about people, entrepreneurship and investing in entrepreneurs. Everything I know about business has been from trial and error. I want to help as many business owners, new or seasoned, that I can, as well as share the knowledge that I have so that they do not make the same mistakes.”

3. ANGIE JUZANG Director of Marketing and Business Development, Garden Park Medical Center, Gulfport. “I have increased the awareness and need for diversity and inclusion by making sure I, or other women and minorities, are at the proverbial table to help make high-level decisions that impact many aspects of our community.” 4. BECKY FARRELL Solo practitioner and founding attorney at Law Office of Becky Farrell PLLC. “Lead by Example. Encourage Women to rise above circumstances. Teach and lead children and women in many areas.

Most importantly, help women rise up out of poverty and victimization.” 5. BECKY GINN Director of development, Gulf of Mexico Alliance. “I have always tried to mentor the women that I have worked with. I don’t necessarily call it mentoring, but I give them opportunities to learn and to grow. I try to show them by example of how to do the right thing in all situations, how to make sure they take care of their customers (volunteers and sponsors), how to look at things from the other person’s shoes, how to make good decisions and how to look out for one another.” 6. BRENDA BLOUNT Director of development, Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art; founder, A Better You Image Transformation. “I have worked in corporate America most of my career. Being downsized three times due to the economy, from positions in which I was a proven and consistent producer, proved to be quite a challenge. My optimism, resilience and belief that I would prevail kept my spirit high and allowed me to find another position where I feel I am making important contributions to the organization’s mission of community service via the medium of art in its many forms.” 7. CARLENE ALFONSO CEO, Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty. “Real estate allows me to be very creative in thinking about how we can serve the public better, through educating our agents to not only be professional and honest, but to use creative ways in getting clients and handling properties.”

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8. CHRISTY BJORK ELIAS Gulf Coast Moms Blog, cofounder and co-owner. “Women empowering women is powerful. As these women become mothers and empower each other, they can change a community.” 9. CONNIE ROCKO Serving fifth term as supervisor District 5, Harrison County Board of Supervisors (has served three terms as board president). “We must be creative and forward thinking. Leadership is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way, and I am that person for Harrison County.” 10. COURTNEY JACOBS Insurance agent, owner, IDR Agency; member, of the Florida Air National Guard, Tyndall unit. “My advice would be to understand the grind is necessary, but as you become stable in your business, remember the ‘why’ behind it. Your family needs you just as much as your company.” 11. CYNTHIA CHAUVIN Executive director of the CourtAppointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program of Hancock County. “My career has afforded me the opportunity to see families at their worst and also see families reconnected and re-engaged with their children. I am humbled to be able to work alongside over 100 incredibly dedicated CASA volunteers who serve over 250 child victims of abuse and neglect annually.” 12. CYNTHIA LAMB Manager of client relations, Pickering Firm Inc. “I never walk away from any opportunity to help someone learn to evaluate decisions, network efficiently and break into the business community, even business competitors new to the community or genre. I am honest with others who have asked me to mentor them, showing them how to move past mistakes and not let mistakes control their future.”

14. ELLIS ANDERSON Owner, Ellis Anderson Media LLC (publishes The Shoofly Magazine). “So much of the news in the world is negative and we often feel disempowered. But telling or reading a story about a person who’s been quietly going about their lives, making a difference in their own community, has the power to inspire and uplift.” 15. HEATHER SUDDUTH Occupational therapist, Singing River Health System, southern regional coordinator, Mississippi Healthcare Alliance. “As a leader in stroke care, my goal is to continue to mentor and encourage neighboring hospitals to create stroke centers so that any stroke survivor can go to their local hospital and get the quality care needed. Providing the highest level of care possible on the front end will decrease the burden of care for the patient and family in the long run.” 16. JONA BURTON Assistant director of Career Services, Gulf Park Campus, The University of Southern Mississippi. “(I am most passionate about) connecting people with their passion and purpose. (I) bring a positive, enthusiastic approach to every person and every project.” 17. KAROL BRANDT Executive casino host, Scarlett Pearl Casino Resort; author and motivational speaker. “I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say, ‘Because of you, I did not give up.’ Every day I share with this community my sunshine, positive attitude and gratitude — my tool chest to success (for) transforming your life to become the best version of you!” 18. KATHY ROGERS Owner and vice president, Marston Rogers Group. “Failing to plan for life changes, for aging and retirement, exacerbates life tragedies and health challenges by adding devastating financial consequences. I take the time to help young and old see that life challenges will come regardless of whether we prepare for those changes or not.”

13. DIXIE NEWMAN Biloxi city councilwoman; owner, Jacked Up Coffee Bar. “I always do what I can, when I can. … (I am passionate about) inspiring women and the younger generation to make a difference and be that www.gcwmultimedia.com difference.”

19. KATHERINE PIZZETTA SPRINGER CEO, United Way of South Mississippi. “I’m in a unique position in that I get to go to work each day and work on behalf of this great community. The opportunity to work for this organization strengthens my resolve to make an impact in the community that I love. Each day, it seems, we discover a new opportunity to serve others or to collaborate with other organizations in order to serve others for a greater good.” 20. TINA SEYMOUR DEMORAN Founder and managing attorney, Seymour Law Firm PLLC. “As a native of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I view my companies as not only means of support, but as missions. My staff and I work to ensure that we are assisting local and statewide charities (and) providing pro-bono and personal hours, as well as funds, to a variety of groups — from

equality, diversity, cancer research, cancer support groups, homelessness groups (and) human tracking awareness groups to legal aid.” 21. LYNN FRISBY Marketing specialist, Boomtown Casino. “(I am most passionate about) helping others.” 22. MARY CRACCHIOLO SPAIN Communications director, MGM Resorts International. “My more than two decades in hospitality and tourism has played a role in shaping the Mississippi Gulf Coast as a tourism destination. I’ve literally engaged with thousands of journalists to help share and spread the Mississippi Gulf Coast story.”

23. MARY S. GRAHAM President, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. “Education is an amazing tool. It opens the door for so many people to pursue their dreams. It’s an honor to lead an organization that focuses on student success and making a positive difference. We offer people the opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills they need for a successful future … we change lives.” 24. MELISSA PEARSON School counselor and cheer coach, Gulfport Central Middle School. “I share with young people, whether at school, church or (in the) community, to be kind, be respectful, be responsible and be accountable — be a keeper of your word and go the extra mile. Be grateful, and never take people for granted.”

25. MISTY STEVENSON High Risk Case Manager, United Health Group; “I feel that I have shaped the Gulf coast by proving that anything you want to do in life is possible. I have a testimony just like everyone else, but I feel that we should use the pain of the past as propellers to move forward versus staying stagnated.” 26. NANCY DEPREO Diamondhead city councilwoman; project manager, Seymour Engineering “In order to build a society that functions with respect and acceptance of others, we need to put our families first. My children and grandchildren are what makes me smile, cry and laugh, sometimes, all in the same day.”

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27. NICKIE HARRIS-RAY Instructor/curriculum developer, Tulane University; author; founder, NHR Blueprint Foundation. “I think I have provided an example of versatility, passion and taking advantage of opportunities while at the same time paying it forward for our next generations.” 28. PAM MOELLER Director of external relations, The University of Southern Mississippi, School of Ocean Science and Technology. “Investing passion into self, self-improvement and future development is always going to be a good investment. A good way to spark passion in oneself is to do things worth feeling good about. Do some volunteer work, help some random people out or find a way to contribute

positively to the world with the skillset that you have.” 29. PEGGY SPRABERRY Arts advocate; “I have always believed that my purpose in life is to serve others. Though I am not artistic, my gift is immense appreciation of those who are. It’s been a privilege to create successful events for the last 35 years to support the creative economy.” 30. REBECA GONZALES Co-owner, Fitlife Studio, personal trainer, fitness camp instructor. “I am committed to something more important than myself or my individual glory. There is a complete sense of gratification in helping others ‘be great,’ as I like to say. It is so important to impact the lives around us as much

32. SHERRI CARR BEVIS Assistant secretary of state for external marketing “It is important to always look at ways to encourage others and work as a team to accomplish your goals and tasks in life. No leader or mentor is able to make a difference without the support of the people they lead, or (without) learning from the wisdom of those who have led before them.”

31. ROBIN KILLEEN Founder of WOW (Women of Wisdom) “In my staffing career, I was honored to assist people in finding long-term careers and (helping) employers find quality employees. I still run into employees that are still with the companies I placed them at and very satisfied with their careers. Currently I am rescuing neglected homes, making our neighborhoods better.”

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as possible — to help people see the greatness that lies within that can help change so many lives.”

33. SHUNDRAL COLE Assistant attorney in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi. “I feel like it’s my duty to connect with as many children/young people as I can and talk to them about making good choices and the potential consequences that come from making bad choices. It’s important to mentor the next generation not only because they are the future, but they deserve a chance at being successful and productive members of society.” 34. SONYA ASHLEY Assistant vice president, commercial loan portfolio manager, Hancock Whitney. “So many of our youth lack self-esteem, and they believe that they are limited by circumstance or money. As I think about my youth, I recognize that I placed some fears and limitations on myself. But over the years, I have had these resounding forces in my life – strong women of faith who may have been limited by their eras — most notably my mother, and grandmothers and some special teachers and mentors. Yet because of their trials and accomplishments, they encouraged

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me and assured me that my only limitation was myself.” 35. STARR CHAPMAN Partner, Rum Kitchen and Bellame Beauty. “I believe that I have demonstrated that with just a spark of an idea, you can ignite a flame so the entire community feels the heat. Everyone benefits from the warmth of a communal fire — sharing food, pride for their neighborhood, love for their family, laughter with their friends (and) hugs from their children. I hope that I shown that love shapes a community.” 36. TASHIA MCGINN Broker/owner, EXIT Prestige Luxury Realty. “I believe in people, and I believe that we all have a champion within us. I’ve used social media and live videos to help connect with people to inspire them and to help them believe in themselves and in their dreams. I’ve traveled to Arizona, Chicago and Tennessee as a result to speak directly to that.”

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Tie it all together for quick follow-through post-conference by attending a Coaching Clinic on Saturday.

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W.P. Shelton’s granddaughter, Dianne Reed Murray (left) and daughter, Cathy Reed (right), continue the founder’s legacy.

W.P. Shelton honors tradition, keeps up with trends By Jennifer Gentile In an era of big-box stores, W.P. Shelton Jewelers harkens back to a time when business was done with a handshake and a smile. Family-owned for 75 years, William Paul (W.P.) Shelton founded his store in 1945 on Howard Avenue in Biloxi after learning how to repair airplane instrument panels during World War II. In 1972, he relocated to Highway 90 in Ocean Springs, and in 1986, he sold the business to his daughter and son-in-law, Cathy and Terry Reed. As Ocean Springs experienced a revitalization in the 1990s, the couple bought the building downtown on Government Street, where the store is still located. The W.P. Shelton story continues with the founder’s granddaughter, Dianne Reed Murray, who says the store’s multi-generational legacy “is something we are very proud of.” “We get to know our customers and truly care about them,” Murray adds. “We love when existing clients bring in children or grandchildren for their jewelry needs — continuing the legacy.”

Although steeped in tradition, W.P. Shelton isn’t stuck in the past style-wise. The store carries top-quality diamonds with timeless appeal, Murray says, while also offering of-the-moment pieces, like stackable rings and bracelets in yellow, white or rose metals. “If we don’t have exactly the style our client is looking for, we will get it in as quickly as next day if possible,” she adds. “We work hard to know the latest looks and where to find them fast.” According to Murray, W.P. Shelton doesn’t have a typical customer. Every age and demographic comes through the store’s doors, she says, and their reasons are equally diverse — from needing a new watch band or battery to buying a wedding ring set. “We have also been re-purposing family heirlooms to bring them into the 21st century,” Murray says. “These are all one-of-a-kind pieces that come to life through our client’s vision.” Regularly worn jewelry requires maintenance, so Murray recommends stopping in for a free cleaning and

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inspection, which could prevent loss of a stone. No matter what brings people to W.P. Shelton, the store’s website states, they can trust staff to match them with the perfect piece while providing exceptional service marked by honesty and integrity. Heading into to the next 75 years, Murray says, “I hope to keep our store fresh for new clients with enough tradition for our established clients.”

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July-August 2019

IF YOU GO 1516 Government St., Ocean Springs (228) 875-4842 Tuesday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., closed Sunday and Monday www.wpsheltonjewelers.com Facebook: W.P. Shelton Jewelers Instagram: wp_shelton_jewelers

CELEBRATING

5 YEARS OF SUCCESS!

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

228-215-1203 Brandin Brosh, Owner

@buycharisma

Photographer: @angela_russophotos

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Travel Studio Boutique takes stress out of trip planning By Jennifer Gentile

ith a father who worked at Trans World Airlines, it’s little surprise that Erika Scicutella caught the travel bug at an early age. “If we weren’t flying, we would take road trips,” she recalls. “I loved that I got to experience different destinations with my family. I feel it brought us closer, as well as making our family have an open mind while being able to relate to people from different cultures.” Today, Scicutella helps others plan their journeys as owner and adviser of Travel Studio Boutique LLC. While she once had a storefront in Ocean Springs, Scicutella now works from home and meets clients at an arranged location like a coffee shop — which allows her to be more present for her son. As a certified autism travel professional and mother of a child with autism spectrum disorder, she brings a unique skillset to the industry. “I work closely with resorts and cruise lines that are certified and trained to care for children and adults with special needs,” Scicutella says. “I can help with air travel arrangements with TSA for a comfortable experience for the families. I can help with stories to prepare your child for their vacation experience so they can be aware of what they can expect in the process of traveling.” Scicutella started getting handson experience in the travel industry in her teens, eventually working the front desk, then in the reservations department, in the hotel industry. “I learned that travel agents get paid by the hotel, resorts, and cruise lines, saving their clients time and money

July-August 2019

and taking the stress away (from) worrying about their travel needs,” she says. “It made me feel good when the guest would let us know about their wonderful experience.” Scicutella went on to Owner, Erika Scicutella, and her husband work at Bay Travel and Tours and Escape Travel Agency in honestly and going above and beNew York. Upon moving to Ocean yond to provide you that special care Springs in 2016, she noticed a lack of and attention you deserve,” she adds. travel agencies in the area. “There’s nothing like traveling with a “When I told my bosses that I was unique itinerary specially created for moving to Mississippi, they asked me you while knowing we’re watching to open a satellite office with them,” over your travels 24/7.” Scicutella says. “Then, (they) decided Some of Scicutella’s goals are to crethat it wouldn’t be fair for me; they felt ate more travel packages to the Gulf I was ready and that it was time I open Coast, selling it as a destination, and my business.” to train and hire more agents, thus Since Travel Studio Boutique creating more jobs for the area. The launched in 2017, according to the business is always researching the best owner, most clients have been honeyplaces and properties to see, she says, mooners, couples, social groups and to give customers the best possible multi-generational family groups. travel experience. In every aspect, Scicutella says, the “My vision for Travel Studio Boubusiness is dedicated to meeting each tique,” she says, “is to (be) the Gulf client’s unique needs. Coast travel agency helping couples, “We personally manage all booking family and friends create precious and travel arrangements, giving you memories that will last a lifetime.” access to our networks and connections, following up with you on every detail, answering your questions

www.gcwmultimedia.com

Jenise McCardell and husband Mark Currier, owners of Clay Creations, photo by Noel Quave

Clay Creations celebrates 35 years

Colorful architectural replicas are at the heart of Jenise McCardell and Mark Currier’s business, one that’s found a special place in the heart of Bay St. Louis. Story by Lisa Monti | BSLShoofly.com

t’s been 35 years since ceramic artist Jenise McCardell left New Orleans, moved to Bay St. Louis and opened her own working studio at 220 Main Street. She and husband Mark Currier’s house is right behind the art deco building that also is home to Gallery 220, a popular artist co-op that has never stopped evolving since the couple opened it in the front part of their building. Clay Creations, located in back of the gallery, is where countless pieces of architectural renderings are handmade and painted. The creations capture images of beloved homes, churches, schools, restaurants, bars and businesses in New Orleans and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, not to mention special commissions of houses and businesses for special occasions and gift giving. All of the pieces are sculpted from white clay, hand-painted and fired in kilns right on the premises. Over the years, thousands of Clay Creations nostalgic pieces have been exchanged as gifts, stuffed into Christmas stockings, decorated gift packages and walls and otherwise made their way into the hands of many a grateful recipient. Clay Creations and Gallery 220 are longtime favorites for everyone who visits Old Town’s shops and stores, and both hold a special place in the open-door tradition on the Second Saturday ArtWalk. That’s because after Hurricane Katrina roared through in 2005, Jenise and Mark were the first business to revive the Second Saturday tradition just a few weeks after the storm. With all of the destruction and disruption Katrina caused, residents saw the return of Second Saturday as a welcome 100

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relief from the chaos and a chance to reconnect with the community. The couple even turned the monthly Second Saturday into a weekly gathering at their studio for several months. Not surprisingly, in 35 productive and successful years, Clay Creations and its owners have been featured in news stories, on television and even in a mini-documentary about Bay St. Louis. Jenise notes that after 35 years, she’s seeing a new generation of customers collecting their own memories from among Clay Creations’ colorful inventory. “They’ll say, ‘My mom collected these,’ so they want to have their own memories for their children,” she says. Since the storm, the Old Town business district has been steadily revitalized, Jenise says, and there is more traffic in the area, which is good news for the city. “It’s so exciting to see all this vibrancy happen,” she adds. “Everybody got on board and did it together.” According to its co-owner, Clay Creations is “going forward” in the future. “It’s been a really great ride,” Jenise says, “and we have enjoyed it. It’s our passion.”

WALK-INS WELCOME

g n i l l i p S

her secret

1. SCUNCHI ACTIVE HEAD WRAP FROM TARGET I love headbands, especially when I’m working out. These are stylish and comfy, so not only do they get the job done of keeping my hair out of my face while I’m working out, but I’ll wear them when I’m running errands and want to give my updo extra flair. 2. FOREVER 21 SPORTS BRA I love Forever 21’s athletic line because they have the cutest patterns and styles. I have tried so many different brands of athletic clothing, and Forever 21 is definitely one of my favorites. Plus, the prices can’t be beat! 3. OLAY COMPLETE ALL-DAY MOISTURIZER I don’t break the bank when it comes to facial 102

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Meaghan Hopper is a south Mississippi native and Army wife m o i s t u r i ze rs . who lives in the Diamondhead area with her husband and rescue pug, I’ve used the Felix. She’s been working in the physical therapy field for 11 years and also same one for is an online health and wellness coach. She’s active in the Instagram comyears, and I like munity (@armywifefitness), where she shares updates about her fitness it because it’s journey and everyday life and strives to help other women achieve their lightweight, doesn’t make fitness goals. Here, she tells us which products make her must-have list. my skin break out SHADOW PALETTE I have with almost every outfit. and contains sunscreen, a few Urban Decay palettes, 7. BROOKS RUNNING which is super important but this one is definitely my SHOES As a runner and — especially for your favorite. There’s so many fitness enthusiast, I love a face. 4. ESTÉE LAUDER shades, and the palette good, comfy pair of shoes. DOUBLE WEAR One thing will last you for a long This pair is my favorite I will splurge on is a good time. Plus, I use the Urban because of the breathable foundation. Down here in Decay eye shadow primer, material and the tons of the South, it gets so hot, and and the shadow stays in cushioning and support it’s hard to find a foundation place all day. 6. RAY-BAN they offer for my workouts. that will stay put in this heat SUNGLASSES These They’re the perfect pair of and humidity. Not only does are necessary because athletic shoes for when I this foundation last all day, we’re in the South with its want style and comfort. but it takes very little (about sunshine and beaches. a dime-size amount) to get This is my favorite pair of full coverage for your face. sunglasses because they’re 5. URBAN DECAY EYE a simple classic that goes

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Applying foundation: How to get the

best results

Do you struggle with your foundation looking cakey, fading away throughout the day or separating on your skin? Here are some tips to consider when applying your foundation to ensure you are getting the most out of your product.

by Jackie Merlau Jmerlaumakeup.com

PREPARE YOUR SKIN If you find that your makeup just fades away hours after application, the cause simply may be a lack of hydration in your skin. This will cause your face to basically “drink” your foundation as if it were a moisturizer. When your skin is properly hydrated and prepped, your makeup will stay in place and wear longer. Oily skin still needs to be hydrated, but it is important to find a moisturizer that can help control the sebum levels in the skin. Drier skin may need deeper hydration, such as face oils and serums. Get to know your skin, and you can better understand what your needs are. CHOOSE THE RIGHT FOUNDATION As stated above, you need to understand what your face is doing to understand the products you are using. Whether your skin is oily or dry, you want to be sure you are working with foundations that are right for you. Mineral and hydrating foundations are best for dry skin, while mattifying foundations can provide built-in oil control. USING PROPER TOOLS I am the biggest fan of using brushes in order to achieve a proper application and longevity. If you use a sponge, your fingers or a flat “foundation” brush, you are just swiping the product along the top of your skin. Not only does this waste product, but the makeup is bound to wear off easier, and you may find yourself struggling to blend streaks of foundation during application. I suggest using a big, fluffy brush to buff the foundation into your skin. This will allow you to use less product, get an airbrush finish and enjoy much longer wear. SET IT FOR SUCCESS You can set your foundation with a translucent setting powder in areas that you want to have a stronger hold. I love tapping this powder over blemishes and more oily sections of the face to create an even longer wear. I also am a huge fan of setting sprays for all skin types and finishes. The powder can tend to add a matte look to those who desire more dewiness, but a setting spray will keep the integrity of your final look while sealing and “freezing” everything into place. It’s a great way to combat the humidity.

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228.832.2875 (curl) • antoniansalon.com

JULY AND AUGUST IS FUN IN THE SUN and looking for some shade and places to chill out…

so why not make some beautiful jewelry in our cool studio. If you are looking for something fun and different go to our website and look at our upcoming classes. We teach the art of making jewelry using copper, brass and sterling 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:

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

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C L OT H I N G F O R SOUTHERN LIVING. The largest selection of FLAX on the Gulf Coast Available in sizes XS - L, and 1X - 3X

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Before you put that on... consider the heat

By Brenda Blount

It’s summertime, and the living is easy as the song goes — but what do you wear when the mercury rises to well over 90 degrees? It’s no easy feat looking stylish in these temperatures.

We all know that we can look perfectly put together one minute, then step outside only to look like we’ve been thrown overboard thanks to our wonderful weather conditions. What to do? First, don’t fret. A few chic essentials can keep you cool despite the Coast’s unbearable heat and humidity. I have a few suggestions: • Don’t even think about venturing outside unless you’re wearing sunscreen. That’s number one on your summer chic list. • Flirty sundresses are a must-have item on your list of summer essentials. Summer is the time when you want to dress as light as possible, so no heavy leggings or jeans. It’s just too hot! And for goodness’s sake, no black unless it’s a chic black linen dress. • Floral dresses are another must. If you are afraid of color, a nice linen floral on a black background may be just what you need. • Linen shorts are a staple for any wardrobe. Don’t worry about wrinkles; that just gives them character. You only need a white or black pair of linen shorts paired with a colorful top to stay cool and comfortable. • I love white, strappy sandals and mules. They are ideal for this time of year, but please make sure you have indulged in a long, luxurious pedicure before you step out in those sandals or flip flops. • Last but not least, a fun straw hat and an oversized straw tote will set you up for the summer. Enjoy! Brenda Blount, of A Better You Image Transformation, is a seasoned retail and fashion merchandising executive, image consultant, pageant coach and former model with more than 30 years’ experience. Find out more about her at http://muchbetteru.com.

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July-August 2019

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Making a good

first impression It's down to the details

As the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. Before you go on that date or show up for that corporate meeting, by Jerika Vincent take advantage of these tips to ensure you’re memorable for all the right reasons: MAKE SURE YOUR HAIR AND MAKEUP ARE DONE AND NAILS ARE CLEAN. Impeccable grooming is a great way to make a statement and stand out from others. This tip may seem insignificant, but it’s important because showing you care about your appearance means you take things seriously. Even if you are nervous, a little maintenance can help make you feel better and more put together.

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

“I enjoy being around people who inspire me. I love the camera and I truly connect with people on and off camera…I do compete with myself in every way. That’s what keeps me moving. But I believe in others succeeding, and I look for ways to help them succeed.” Watch “Jerika’s Showcase” WLOX ABC - SATURDAYS at 6:30 P.M. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, SnapChat and YouTube Follow Jerika: 110

July-August 2019

@jerikasshowcase

DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR THE OCCASION. For example, if you are going to a business meeting, make sure to wear something professional. Do not turn up in workout clothes and a baseball cap. You want to show those who are taking the time to meet you that you respect them and their company. ON A DATE, BE POLITE AND SAY THANK YOU! Also don’t expect the bill to be covered, even though it most likely will be. Appreciate the person you are with, and that will go a long way. Impressing someone is not always about appearance.

TUNE IN TO JERIKA’S SHOWCASE Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. on WLOX CBS Snapchat: Jerikafs Instagram: Jerikas_Showcase Facebook: Jerika’s Showcase Twitter: Jerikas_Showcase www.jvshowcase.com

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Save the date!

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019 10 AM - 3PM

Brides-to-be, get excited about this upcoming event!

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Vendor info: sherry@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com Gulf Coast Weddings | 3451 Washington Ave., Suite B | 228.539-2422

July-August 2019

MONEY

Start caring for yourself as much as you care for others Recently, someone asked about a situation in which she was caring for her live-in significant other, to whom she was not married, during a time when he was battling a serious health issue. Her complaint was that he had adult children who were not helping, and the couple was facing a financial crisis on top of the health concerns. The woman had been asking her own family for both financial and hands-on help just to be able to manage the situation. Someone called from a hospital to inquire what her rights were because her significant other was in the intensive care unit, and his adult children did not want him put on a ventilator — contrary to her wishes. These situations are getting more common each day. For women, the following statistics, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates, should be a wakeup call: • Women have an average life expectancy of approximately four years longer than men; • The annual gender-wage gap assessment shows that women make 80 cents for every dollar earned by a man; • Research from 2018 shows that adults living together outside of marriage continues to be more common; • According to AARP Public Policy Institute, an estimated 26 million women provided unpaid care for others during the prior year.

The woman in any relationship is likely to end up being the caregiver. So, what do these statistics say about women? First, it points out what every woman already knows: The woman in any relationship is likely to end up being the caregiver. She is the one who likely will spend a significant amount of her time helping others without pay. Furthermore, since women’s salaries historically have been significantly less than men’s, chances are the woman will not have as much in terms of disposable financial resources. It also is likely she will have longer to live than her male counterpart. Some legal protections provide security for spouses, such as homestead laws; however, if the couple is not married, the woman’s rights are diminished. Therefore, what should the woman do in the above situation? I suggest that every

By Kathy Brown van Zutphen

woman, before entering into a domestic live-in arrangement like the one described, should seek an attorney to get legal agreements like a trust, healthcare directives and/or HIPPA releases in place. A trust can “own” the joint assets and state the financial rights of the parties, during their life, during disability and after death. The healthcare directives and releases can be used in case of a medical emergency so that the woman in this situation can be involved in the decisions and talk to the medical personnel. Without such legal documents, the hospital or medical personnel must turn to the patient’s next-of-kin, which likely would be the patient’s adult children. Women must recognize these realities and act to protect themselves and their families. They need to start caring for themselves as much as they care for the others in their lives. Kathy Brown van Zutphen is an attorney licensed to practice law in Alabama and Mississippi. She focuses on the “elder law” areas of trusts, estates and conservatorships. Additionally, she litigates lawsuits and represents small business owners as part of her legal practice. Visit Kathy’s website to learn more: www. al-mscoastallaw.com. You can also reach her at her office: (228) 357-5227.

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Your business is charitable, too Your small business frequently is asked to donate an item to a charity’s fundraising silent auction, buy a drawdown ticket or dinner to a nonprofit event or donate money to individuals or families involved in a tragic event. So, in the name of By Tina Perkins charity, your business gives. Does your business give money, property or time? Does it matter? Does it make any difference who the recipient is? While true charity is generosity given without expecting anything in return, a tax deduction (aka tax savings) could result if handled properly. Let us look a little closer.

THE BUSINESS The small business I am talking about is the sole-proprietor or the pass-through entity type (LLCs, partnerships and S-corporations). The taxes paid on these businesses generally are handled at the owner’s level and not at the entity’s level. This means it is the owner’s personal tax return, and not the business’s, that ultimately receives the tax benefit (aka tax savings) of the business’ charitable giving. THE RECIPIENT The contribution must be made to a qualified, tax-exempt organization. These qualified organizations are nonprofit groups that are religious, charitable, educational, scientific or literary in purpose, or that work to prevent cruelty to children or animals. An individual, a for-profit organization, lobby groups, civic and social clubs, homeowners’ associations, political groups or candidates for public office are not qualified recipients. And certainly, you could never benefit from your own contribution. 114

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THE DONATED ITEM A monetary donation usually is the easiest and quickest form of charity. As businesses are known for giving inkind, they may contribute assets other than cash. Common business donations include: • Cash • Property (e.g. inventory, real estate, etc.) • Labor THE CHARITABLE DEDUCTION ALLOWED Since the IRS puts limits on charitable deductions, all charitable contributions are not created equal. First, the IRS limits the charity value at the time the business makes the donation. Then the IRS limits the actual charitable deduction when it is claimed on the owner’s tax return.

Limits when business makes the charitable donation The value of the charitable donation is limited to the lesser of the donated item’s fair-market value on the date of donation or the property’s basis. (Basis usually means its cost plus or minus adjustments.) • Cash is valued at the amount given, since its fair-market value equals its basis. • Inventory is limited to the lesser of its cost or its fair-market value. So, old inventory that has lost its value would be limited to its lower value. For example, your business purchased a widget last year for $500, which it sells for $750. This year, you donate the widget, and it is worth $300. The value of the charitable donation is $300. • Real Estate (any long-term capital gain property) generally is valued at its fair-market value. For example, your business purchased real estate over a year ago for $50,000.

Today, when the property is donated, it is worth $150,000. The value of the charity is $150,000. However, in certain situations, the value may be the property’s cost or other basis. If applicable, then, in the example above, the value is $50,000 in the following situations: The property is contributed to certain private, non-operating foundations. You choose the 50 percent limit instead of the 30 percent limit for capital gain property given to 50 percent organizations. The property is intellectual property. The property is taxidermy property. The property is tangible personal property that is put to an unrelated use by the charity, or has a claimed value of more than $5,000 and is sold, traded or disposed of by the charitable organization during the year you made the contribution. • Labor has no charitable value (for tax purposes) for either your or your employees’ labor. It matters not how specialized your talent may be. For purchases of charity dinners, only the amount you paid above the fair-market value of the dinner is considered charity. Therefore, instead of purchasing the dinner, consider turning the expenditure into an advertising cost, which is a fully deductible business expense. LIMITS ON THE OWNER’S PERSONAL TAX RETURN If your total contributions for the year are 20 percent or less of your adjusted gross income, additional limits will not apply to you. If your contributions exceed the 20 percent, then you are limited to a maximum charitable deduction of 60 percent of your personal adjusted gross income. This 60 percent maximum could be further limited, depending on the charitable organization type and the property contributed. Finally, the charitable contribution is an itemized deduction, and you therefore must itemize to receive the tax benefit. With the new increased itemized deduction thresholds, thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, many people will take the standard deduction and not itemize. In summary, your business’s charitable giving is not a business expense, so it will not reduce your business income to lower your self-employment and income taxes. Your small business charity is ultimately deducted on your personal tax return and benefits you only if you itemize. If you do not itemize, you receive no tax benefit for your business’ charitable giving. Every business and individual’s tax situations are different, so you should talk with your CPA to determine what is right for you. Tina Perkins is a CPA at Tina Perkins, CPA, P.A., 4048 Popps Ferry Road, D’Iberville. Reach her at (228) 392-2991.

TINA PERKINS

CPA, PA

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Protecting what you’ve

WORKED FOR

The largest investment you’ll By Angelyn probably ever Treutel Zeringue make is buying a home. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or filing a claim for the first time, most consumers have questions about their homeowners’ insurance. Protecting your possessions from loss is financially and emotionally important. IS HOME INSURANCE REQUIRED? Unlike car insurance, homeowners’ insurance is not legally mandated. However, if you are paying a mortgage, your lender will require you to have insurance. If you do not secure outside coverage, the mortgage holder will “force place” coverage, which only protects the amount of your remaining loan and is usually four times more than a regular insurance policy. Carrying an insurance policy to protect your asset is vital.

HOW IS MY PREMIUM DETERMINED? Insurance companies use several factors when calculating a home insurance premium, including: your home’s age, construction and structural materials; crime rate and other attributes of the location; alarm features, including burglar, smoke, water and carbon monoxide detectors; and personal choices, such as whether you smoke, your credit history and if you have a history of making home insurance claims. HOW DOES MY DEDUCTIBLE WORK? Home insurance deductibles operate differently than medical insurance deductibles. You are required to pay the entire deductible every time you file a 116

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claim. For example, if your deductible is $2,000, and you file a claim for hail damage to your roof in the spring and fire damage the next fall, you will pay that $2,000 deductible each time you file a claim. That’s why it’s so important to choose a deductible you can comfortably afford to pay and that you only make a claim for a large loss.

WHAT’S USUALLY EXCLUDED FROM HOME INSURANCE COVERAGE? While your policy should cover damage from fire, severe weather, break-ins and a myriad of other circumstances, most have certain exclusions. Those exclusions often limit coverage for animal liability, vehicles, watercraft and certain valuables like firearms, artwork and dinnerware above a specific dollar amount. Your policy also won’t cover water damage caused by flooding. You need a flood insurance policy to cover those events. It’s important to carefully review any home insurance policy to determine what is not covered. WHAT MAKES A GOOD HOME INSURANCE POLICY? Replacement-cost policies offer the best protection and ensure you’ll be able to replace your home and possessions with similar ones at today’s prices. HOW MUCH PERSONAL PROPERTY COVERAGE DO YOU NEED? When you buy your home insurance policy, don’t overlook the importance of properly protecting what’s inside your home with personal property insurance. The sheer number of items within your home and how much emotional value you place on many of them may make it very diffi-

cult to quantify exactly how valuable your personal property is. The best way to determine this is to prepare a personal property inventory, or a detailed list of everything you own and how much each item would cost to replace. You can increase the “special limits of liability” for the categories in which you have more valuable items or individually schedule a high-value item to increase the coverage limit. This is also advantageous because these riders provide all-risk coverage, which means the scheduled items are covered for all risks, not just the basic “covered perils” outlined in the main home insurance policy.

HOW MUCH LIABILITY COVERAGE IS BEST? Liability coverage protects you if someone is injured on your property and you are deemed legally responsible. The injury could just be a fall on the driveway, a neighborhood child getting hurt while playing in your yard or an intoxicated guest. A good rule of thumb is to obtain a liability limit greater than the value of your home. With homeowners’ insurance, you have a safety net if anything ever happens to your biggest investment. If something happens to your place after you have paid down your mortgage loan, your insurance is there to retain the equity you have built up over the years. Angelyn Treutel Zeringue is president of SouthGroup Insurance Services. She previously chaired the Agents Council for Technology (ACT) for the national Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America (IIABA) and has spearheaded numerous programs fostering the use of technology to enhance and improve the independent agency system.

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Take care of your

Are you a small business owner? Do you have employees? Would you consider any of them a key person? A key employee is one who contributes significantly to the financial success of the business or who is responsible for management decisions, has a significant impact on sales or has a special rapport with customers and creditors. A key employee also may be your secretary or right-hand person. According to Andrew Carnegie, the value of key employees cannot be understated. He said, “Take away my By Kathy Rogers people but leave my factories, and soon grass will grow on the factory floors. … Take away my factories but leave my people, and soon we will have a new and better factory.” It is important for you to take the time to evaluate each employee, their value to your business and how it (and you) might suffer if you lost them. Consider both the short- and long-term effect each of the following items would have on your business as you evaluate how their loss would impact your business.

• The loss of their management skill and experience, especially in a business with little management depth. • The disruption to your business when a client withholds or delays business dealings once they know the employee has moved to another business or perhaps has passed away (or become disabled). • Your creditors know who your key employees are; will they view your business as less credit-worthy without that employee? • The increased cost of hiring and training a replacement. 118

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key employees

• Their emotional/relational role in the business with other employees. Have you identified one or more key employees? How would your business be affected if they became disabled, passed away, changed careers, left you for a competitor or became your competitor? Each one of these scenarios could affect your business in different ways. It is time for you to take another look at each employee with these scenarios in mind. I’m not advising you to become suspicious of your staff, but rather to acknowledge how important each one is to the success of your business. Chances are they already know how vital they are, and they are waiting for you to acknowledge their contributions and loyalty. Here is my challenge: Go online and search the many lists outlining the top 10 reasons employees stay or leave a job. Remove your “business-owner” blinders and take an honest look at the state of the emotional and relationship connections you and your company have with your employees. Key employees stay when they can focus on doing great work and contributing to growth while trusting they will be fairly compensated. Are you giving your key employees more reason to stay than just a paycheck? If not, now is the time to make changes. For creative ideas on tax-deductible financial and emotional incentives to help retain your key employees, contact me. I’d love to meet with you and share my ideas. Kathy Rogers is the vice president of Marston Rogers Group, a life planner and financial consultant. Reach her at (228) 2065902 or at kathy@marstonrogers.com.

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HEALTH By Dr. Stanford A. Owen

The complications of concussion Many people suffer concussion, which is a brain injury or brain “bruise” that occurs when the brain “jiggles” or “sloshes” rapidly within the skull from an injury.

Many people suffer concussion, which is a brain injury or brain “bruise” that occurs when the brain “jiggles” or “sloshes” rapidly within the skull from an injury. The injury may be direct, like your head striking the windshield in an automobile accident, or indirect, like the sudden jerk that occurs when your seatbelt tightens in a high-speed accident (over 20 mph). It also can occur when a brain “protected” by a helmet suddenly stops on impact, causing the brain to slosh up against the skull. A bruise on the brain is very similar to any bruise you receive on the arms or legs from trauma. The difference is that it interrupts vital nerve circuits connecting various brain regions. The bruise will heal over days and weeks, but the nerve cell interruption may last for weeks, months or even years. In addition, the injury can trigger an immune response that further injures the brain, called “traumatic encephalopathy,” made famous in the movie “Concussion,” starring Will Smith and Alec Baldwin. The main areas of the brain to be injured in concussions are the frontal lobes, which are involved in focus, tasking and organization — or so-called “executive function.” This is an acquired cause of attention deficit disorder. The other area often damaged is the temporal lobe, where emotions are processed. Often these patients suffer depression, rage and inability to control their emotions. An example of this tragedy is Aaron Hernandez, a famous NFL football player who murdered his best friend before eventually taking his own life. His autopsy revealed severe traumatic encephalopathy. It is vital to protect the brain after a concussion, as subsequent concussions multiply the injury and markedly increase the risk for severe brain dysfunction. 120

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SO WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF CONCUSSION? You might be surprised. In order of frequency, they are bicycle falls, falls at home (usually elderly), skateboarding, soccer and football. Most of these happen due to lack of helmet protection. Treatment is difficult. Avoiding inflammatory foods like sugary drinks, starches (wheat, corn, rice and potatoes) mixed with animal fats (pork, beef, dairy) is advised. Exercise reduces oxidative stress and aids healing if done cautiously. Vitamins that reduce oxidative stress such as fish oil, turmeric, and methionine may help. The most effective medicinal therapy is probably hyperbaric oxygen. This is expensive, and health insurance rarely pays for treatment. However, automobile insurance may cover selected cases in motor vehicle accidents. My office manager suffered a severe brain trauma and had miraculous improvement after hyperbaric oxygen treatment. The brain is a delicate organ. It requires protection. Nature gave us a good skull to protect us, but humans did not evolve to crash our heads together in sport or achieve high speeds as seen in auto accidents. If you know someone who experienced a concussion followed by changes in mood, behavior and concentration at work or academic performance, it could be the result of brain injury and should be examined in detail. Dr. Stanford A. Owen practices in Gulfport, Mississippi and specializes in Attention Deficit Disorder. He is Certified in Internal Medicine, Nutrition, Psychopharmacology, and Hyperbaric Oxygen. You may contact Dr. Owen at 228-864-9669 or email at drowenmd@drdiet.com.

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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!

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By Edwina Roland

Stay safe in the SUN

Living in South Mississippi during the summer months can be challenging. Our beautiful beaches and parks are very inviting, and we want to take advantage of every minute we have to enjoy our city with friends and family. However, sun exposure can be detrimental to our health if we don’t prepare and respect the sun. Here are a few things to remember: DEHYDRATION Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. At some point in our lives, we have heard that drinking appropriate amounts of water is important to our overall health. During the warmer months, it is even more essential. As we engage in outdoor activities, simply getting in and out of the car to run errands can cause us to lose more fluids than we would in the cooler months. Increasing your fluid intake will help you with your hydration status. Protein shakes and sodas are not as effective as water or drinks with electrolytes in replenishing the right amount for you to stay healthy. You may suspect you are dehydrated if your urine is a dark yellow or brown, if you feel an overwhelming thirst or are fatigued. Avoid alcoholic beverages because they can increase your chances of dehydration, and

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do not skip meals. Some individuals who become dehydrated and don’t recover quickly may require IV fluid intake administered in the emergency department. HEAT EXHAUSTION Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink. If you are not accustomed to working out in the yard, playing sports in the sun or otherwise being active in direct sunlight for long periods, make sure you are prepared. The elderly and children are more prone to heat exhaustion, so special care should be taken. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include dizziness, weakness, feeling jittery, heart palpitations and nausea. SUNBURN Avoid sunburn by wearing lightweight, light-colored clothing. Include accessories like visors, hats and sunglasses. Many people don’t realize that the sun can damage eyes as easily as skin. Look for sunglasses with UV protection built into the lenses. Symptoms of sun-damaged eyes are itchi-

ness, redness and watering that may occur after excessive sun exposure. To protect your skin, apply a sunscreen that’s at least 50 SPF; reapply to exposed areas as much as once every hour. Some medications can increase your risk of sunburn, so make sure you are educated on which of your medications may cause damage to the skin. Don’t try and beat the heat. Sometimes it is just safer to stay inside during peak times and move around during cooler periods of the day, including nighttime. You know your body better than anyone else. If you think something is wrong, take action and stay safe! Edwina Roland is a board-certified nurse practitioner at Garden Park Physician Group’s walk-in and family medicine clinic, located at 305 Cowan Road, Gulfport; you can reach the clinic at (228) 2067054.

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Misty Stevenson's STORY MY GOAL BEFORE MY TRANSFORMATION My original goal was to get down to Six years ago, I looked at a picture a size 9/10, my pre-college size. I was that a friend had taken of me. I was comfortable at that size and honestly felt standing there, 265 pounds, 5 feet 1 that goal was realistic. Ten months after inch tall, wearing a size 24/26. Unlike surgery, I was well below a size 9/10. most of the pictures I took — mainly I felt amazing, and my new goal was head shots — this one was uncropped, unfiltered and off-guard. I instantly became sad, and I was forced to deal with the fact that not only was I fat, but morbidly obese. I had gotten so big that I stopped shopping for clothes and only bought things that didn’t need a size, like purses and earrings. My body ached constantly, and the more I thought about losing weight, the more I ate — and the more I gained. I was extremely depressed and had a low self esteem. I made horrible decisions and did not care about BEFORE AFTER myself anymore. to be a runner and work out without This day was the final straw, and I was pain and discomfort. I honestly can say tired of feeling like I felt and looking vanity was not why I elected to have this like I looked. I began reading self-help surgery. Instead, I wanted to look on the books and listening to motivationoutside like I felt on the inside. I became al speeches about self-love. One day well aware that my poor eating habits during this journey, I resolved to do led to the weight, and the weight led to something about my weight. I decidpoor choices; it basically had become a ed to try diet pills, but that was only revolving door. I wanted that to end. I effective for so long. I started working also wanted to be able to cross my legs. out, but I was in extreme pain due to Yes, that is a huge deal to a big girl. my weight and could not keep that up, either. I reached out to a close relative WHAT I DID about weight loss surgery, as she recentOnce I had surgery and was cleared ly had lost 100 pounds the year before to work out, I started small by walking through a bariatric procedure. She my neighborhood. Once I got better helped me make up my mind, saying, at that, I started looking up workouts “The only thing I regret is not doing it on YouTube and doing those at home. sooner.” I researched and decided to Finally, when I realized I was commove forward with gastric sleeve surmitted to working out, I joined a local gery on Feb. 6, 2014. boot camp with amazing trainers and pushed myself harder than ever before.

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I followed my bariatric diet to the book, and I was very focused on myself and my health. I vowed to never regain my weight. I avoided sweets, breads, starches, sodas, fast food and fried foods. I teamed up with some ladies who were just as focused as I was and ran my first 5K that following year. I eventually met this amazing guy (who I later married), and we started dating and eating out, but I remained committed. Although I splurged every so often, I still watched what I ate because I knew realistically that I couldn’t eat healthy 100 percent of the time. However, working out became a lifestyle, and I still exercise five days a week for an hour. I also have an amazing trainer, Rashad Roper with Train Stop Fitness, who pushes me to continue to challenge myself and not get comfortable with temporary results. He also encourages me to eat healthy and never lose sight of my goals and where I came from. He encourages me not to obsess over a scale, but instead pay attention to how I feel and how my clothes fit. HOW IT WORKED Altogether, I lost 140 pounds — with more than 100 pounds lost in 10 months. I went from a whooping 265 pounds, wearing a size 24/26 the day of surgery, to 125 pounds wearing a size 0/1. I was pleased with my results, but I realized I was too small and decided I needed to gain some weight back the healthy way. I now am a size 7/8 and weigh 160 pounds, and I am comfortable. I also gained a lot of muscle versus fat, so I am pleased with what I see in

Continued on page 132

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Don’t discount deadly effects of

heat

By Dr. Philip L. Levin With Mississippi Coast temperatures hovering in the mid-to-high 90s, coupled with the high humidity, the heat index often tops 105 degrees this time of year. These conditions can be deadly for those who don’t have access to adequate fluids and cooled environments. The devastating health emergencies extreme heat can trigger include kidney shut down, stroke and cardiac arrest. Certain individuals are at especially high risk. Disabled people who rely on others to bring them fluids may not be able to respond to their own needs. Many homeless live in their cars, and a dark-colored vehicle parked in the sun can reach an interior temperature of 200 degrees quickly. Young children have increased susceptibility to heat illnesses, both because they’re unable to voice their need for fluid and their smaller body mass gives them much less reserve to tolerate fluid loss. I remember one case in which a mother left her child in the car seat with the windows cracked. The toddler was sleeping, and the mother was just running into the store for a moment. The checkout line was longer than she had anticipated, and by the time she came back and checked on the baby, she couldn’t wake him. Fortunately, she recognized the danger and rushed him to our ER, where we immediately administered IV fluids and used evaporation fans. The child had a four-day hospitalization before recovering. Heat illnesses range from mild, such as rash, swelling or fainting, to the potentially deadly heat stroke. One of the earlier stages is heat exhaustion. Someone who is affected will sweat profusely and show a weak pulse, and they also can become nauseated and confused. One elderly woman I treated had her electricity cut off because she couldn’t afford the payments. She had been vomiting for three days with resultant electrolyte loss, and it took over six liters of IV fluids before her kidneys started working again. The elderly are particularly vulnerable to heat illnesses because they often lose their ability to self-regulate their body temperature, known as loss of thermoregulation, and they also 130

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have a decreased sense of thirst. In over 40 years of being an ER doctor in the South, I’ve seen the worst stage of heat illness, heat stroke, only a few times. The body loses the ability to cool itself, with the victim having headaches, flushed skin, racing pulse and elevated temperatures — typically over Now in the hottest days of 105. I remember our Mississippi summer, one time the rescue be aware of the dangers of squad brought in excessive heat. an alcoholic man who’d been living in a makeshift tent he’d set up in the woods. With too much heat and too little water, he had passed out. By the time the patient arrived in the ER, he was having seizures. Despite our efforts; fluids, dialysis and cooling methods, he succumbed to his multi-system failure, dying within 24 hours. Intoxicants and some drugs increase the effects of heat illness. Not only do they impair a person’s judgment, but alcohol and medications can interfere with the body’s normal abilities to cope with heat by disrupting sweating and kidney functions. Now in the hottest days of our Mississippi summer, be aware of the dangers of excessive heat. This illness is made worse by the accumulation of overheating and dehydration over several days but can occur in a matter of a few hours. Check on your neighbors, particularly those without air conditioning and those living without shelter. Your concern for those in need may be lifesaving. Dr. Philip L. Levin is based in Gulfport and has been practicing medicine for 40 years. He graduated from the University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio in 1978 and specializes in emergency medicine. He can be contacted at (228) 867-4000.

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MISTY STEVENSON continued from page 126 the mirror and pictures. I know 10 people who have had the surgery because of my journey. THE MOST DIFFICULT PART The hardest part about weight-loss surgery is that they operate on your body — not your mind. As I mentioned above, I was a size 0. I had no idea I was as small as I was, and I was constantly trying to lose more weight. I would look in the mirror and still see myself as fat. This is common with bariatric patients and is known as body dysmorphia. I still battle it to this day. I see myself as fat in mirrors, but pictures help a lot. The next hardest thing is the desire to still eat large amounts of food. In the beginning, I would go fix a big plate and only be able to eat a few bites before I was bent over in pain. I also remember having a meltdown because I wasn’t able to eat as much, and for a month or so, I had buyer’s remorse. Thankfully, my dear relative had prepared me for all of these things prior to surgery, so it was no shock when I experienced them myself. HOW I FEEL TODAY I feel amazing these days. I am still shocked when I look at my pictures and see a much smaller version of myself. I am even more happy about the fact that I still work out and I don’t have aches and pains like I did before.

MY ADVICE TO OTHERS I just started talking openly about having surgery mainly because I want to inspire others to do the same — not because you look amazing and can wear smaller outfits. Those are the extra perks that come with weight loss, but it’s because you are healthier and feel better. Once you feel better, you view life differently in a positive way. If you have done everything possible to lose the weight and have considered weight loss surgery, by all means do your research and go for it. Please don’t listen to the naysayers about surgery being the easy way out because this is not easy at all. It definitely is not a quick fix. The initial weight loss comes pretty easy in the beginning, but it slows down after the first year, so I would strongly encourage someone to develop better eating habits and get a workout routine early on. Also, never compare yourself to others, as this is a personal journey. Never forget where you came from, live out loud and do not be ashamed of what you did to lose the weight. You may find that your journey has inspired others. More importantly, love yourself before you have the surgery. That’s what will keep you pushing to reach your goals and maintaining your results years after.

)

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Meal prep made

Meal prep means planning, preparing, cooking and portioning your meals out for the week. This means cooking in bulk once or twice a week (Sunday and Wednesday). Meal prep can make a huge impact on you; it has for me. "I am a seasoned, faithful meal prepper and have been for 10-plus years. I meal prep because it’s a healthy habit, saves time, helps me track my food intake, keeps weight off, allows me to be consistent and helps me prepare for the work week." Find your why. For me, it saves me so much time during the week. Having my refrigerator stocked with healthy meals is vital to living a healthy lifestyle. With more time, I get back to being me — hot yoga, swimming, meditation and some creative coloring. Otherwise, I would be rushing to throw my lunch and dinner together, maybe from leftovers from the night before, and trying to figure out what to eat on the day of; that is not healthy. Planning

By Karol Brandt

easy

is crucial to staying on a healthy track. Otherwise, it’s so easy to eat the unhealthy fast food and take out, which normally are excessive portions filled with saturated fats and calories. When will I have time to cook all of this food, you ask? I know your to-do list is large with work, meetings, kids, soccer games, cheer camp, social gatherings, vacations, weekends, etc. I get it, and there’s so much to juggle. I will let you in on a secret: Meal prepping is a top contender for making your life easier, and you can even involve the kids. Meal prepping normally takes about four hours, and if you choose, you can divide it between two days, Sunday and Wednesday, with your cooking done on Sundays. With just some little, creative combinations left, package up and you are ready for the week. I meal prep once a week, on Mondays because I am off work.

HERE ARE THE EASY STEPS I TAKE TO PREPARE FOR MEAL PREP:

STEP 1 - MAKE TIME Find that day that will give you three to four hours to plan your menu, grocery shop, cook and portion out your meals. This is all about you and how much time you can dedicate to prepping. STEP 2- MAKE A MENU, AND GO GROCERY SHOPPING Write down how may meals you want to make and the ingredients you need. Also note which meals you actually will prepare to make your shopping list. Categorize the list by breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. It does not need to be complicated. Beginners, keep it simple. Stick to recipes with few ingredients and staples that you can cook and combine in other dishes. Pick meals you actually want to make. I am no master chef, and I pick meals that are manageable for me. I am faithful about having a balance of macros — proteins, fats, carbohydrates, fresh fruits and/or vegetables for each meal. I recommend myfitnesspal.com to track macros and exercise. I use the app every day, and it tracks everything and keeps me accountable. July-August 2019 134

Some of my staples/suggestions are: Proteins - Chicken breast, lean ground beef, ground turkey, flank steak, turkey breast, salmon, tuna, egg whites, eggs and shrimp Carbohydrates - Sweet potato, quinoa, brown rice, Ezekiel bread or Dave’s power-seed bread, hummus Healthy fats - Almonds, walnuts, almond butter, olive oil, coconut oil Fruits/vegetables - Spinach, kale, arugula, mushrooms, asparagus, celery, tomato, peppers, zucchini, squash, eggplant, pineapple, blueberries, blackberries, watermelon, apples, strawberries (I try and eat fruit that’s in season) STEP 3 - STOCK UP ON PANTRY STAPLES From garlic, olive oil and onions to spices, fresh cracked pepper and pink Himalayan crystal salt (my fave), there are certain staples every meal prepper should have. I use Flavor God seasoning or find salt-free spices. Hint: Create a 10 musthaves list when you go to the store so you can add them to your cart and pantry. STEP 4 - INVEST IN THE RIGHT TOOLS Investing in the right kitchen

equipment makes all the difference. Make sure you have the essentials, like cutting boards, sharp knives and meal-prep containers. I use Ello Meal Prep Food Storage containers — the best! They are so very colorful and feature a leakproof lid; you actually can cook in them because they are oven safe without the lid up to 425 degrees. They’re also safe for the freezer, microwave and dishwasher, and you can find them through Amazon or Target. It’s by far my best meal-prep investment. STEP 5 - BATCH COOK WITH SHEET PANS Sheet pans are such an easy way to cook. I cook mainly on sheet pans, hardly ever on the stovetop, so sheet pans and batch cooking are my preferences for meal prepping. Plus, the cleanup is so minimal. Buy different size sheet pans, and get some deep ones for roasting vegetables. STEP 6- OR USE A SLOW COOKER Everyone who meal preps should have and use a slow cooker; talk about saving time in the kitchen! The slow cooker is handy for making everything from oatmeal and eggs to complete meals.

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

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• We provide Well Child Visits (Newborn - 18 years)

• Asthma and Eczema Management • Immunizations

• ADHD Evaluations • Sick Visits

• Breastfeeding Friendly

We accept most public and private insurances. For expectant mothers, we offer pre-natal consultations to help select their pediatrician and have a face to face opportunity to get their questions answered.

Pediatric Associates

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Business hours M-F 8:00 - 5:00 with on call physicians 24/7

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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.

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

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

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We offer a number of services, including:

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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

July-August 2019

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

228-702-1500

HOME & FAMILY

“Nature is the connection to the root of who you are.” — Mary Ann O’Gorman

Play, create -relax Twisted Run Retreat offers artistic refuge A 15-minute drive on Interstate 10 to exit 57, and eventually a turn onto Twisted Run Lane, brings you to 15 acres of paradise in Vancleave. The wind-down from civilization to solitude is immediate as the iron gate to Twisted Run Retreat opens. “Is it real?” property owner and award-winning-writer, Mary Ann O’Gorman asks when she first gazes upon the wildness of her “aisling”— her dream. “I went to Ireland with my mother when I was 10 years old,” she says. “In the duty-free (shop), I purchased a bottle of perfume labeled Aisling, which means dream in Gaelic. That’s what I first named the retreat, but it was too hard to explain.” Twisted Run became the metaphor for O’Gorman’s life. “It has been a real roller-coaster ride getting to this point,” she says. “At the end of the twisted run, you get to this!” What you get is a natural environment that supports the arts. Writers, musicians and artists are all welcome, as are families and vacationers. “This is a place close to home for people on the Coast to simply come and relax,” O’Gorman says. The lush hideaway overlooks Bluff Creek and offers natural woodlands, walking trails, scenic vistas and a bevy of wildlife. The lovingly landscaped grounds are dotted with O’Gorman’s own gardens, where she says she allows herself to make mistakes about what will grow and what will not. “Everyone needs a place where they can make mistakes,” she adds. New construction designed by Tall Architects in Ocean Springs includes two 432-square-foot tiny houses, named for writers Eudora Welty and Carson McCullers, and a 1,200-square-foot screened pavilion, especially geared toward canvas artists, workshops and larger gatherings. Built in the late ‘90s, Oliver House — named for poet

By Elaine Stevens

Mary Oliver — sleeps eight and features a fully-equipped kitchen, dining area and wrap-around, screened-in porch. “The main purpose of Twisted Run Retreat is to make you want to be outside, surrounded by nature,” O’Gorman says. Writers and artists who arrive at Twisted Run are encouraged to be productive, for as Picasso once said, “Without great solitude, no serious work is possible.” Applications and work samples are part of the process. Twisted Run has provided creative space for a number of notable writers, among them M.O. Walsh, author of “My Sunshine Away”; Kristen Iversen, author of “Full Body Burden: Growing up in the Shadow of Rocky Flats”; screenwriter and fiction writer Adam Prince, author of “The Beautiful Wishes of Ugly Men”; and poet Charlotte Pence, author of “Many Small Fires,” to name a few. A generous and collaborative writer herself, O’Gorman says “yes” to literati all year long and is willing to exchange retreat accommodations for workshops. “This place speaks to my motherly nature,” O’Gorman says. “I support people who are doing amazing things. I want my guests to walk away from Twisted Run feeling supported in their work.” The retreat center is available to anyone, from small groups of friends to those wanting peace and quiet. Writers, artists, families, and retreat organizers are invited to contact O’Gorman to discuss how Twisted Run Retreat can be their place to play, create and relax. For more information on Twisted Run Retreat, visit www.twistedrunretreat.com. The venue is located at 4124 Twisted Run Lane, Vancleave, and can be reached at (228) 238-0739. Elaine Stevens is an award-winning writer/producer and broadcast journalist. She is completing her third book, “Mermaid in the Window: A Memoir.”

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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As love grows By Jenni Murray

e have been neck deep in cleaning things out recently — attics in childhood homes and storage containers collecting dust in closets. It’s the kind of cleaning that’s simultaneously freeing and heartbreaking as you view your life through a box of old photographs, letters, report cards and trophies. In the midst of all the cleaning, my husband and I came across a treasure trove of old letters, poetry and pictures from the earliest parts of our relationship through the early parts of our marriage. There were the sweetest poems written by a 19-year-old boy who was in love and needed the world to know. There was letter after letter from a 20-yearold girl to her summer camp counselor boyfriend, reminding him many times not to forget her and how much she longed to be back in his arms. Some of it made me cry. A lot of it was embarrassing, and quite frankly, some of it made me question: What happened to those love-struck, googly-eyed kids? Have we lost something so spectacular that we had to use the biggest and most elaborate words we knew to describe it? Have we lost the passion that made us think four weeks away from each other would be the death of us? And where is the box of letters from now? Why have we stopped writing over-the-top, cringe-worthy love letters? Thankfully, life sometimes has a way of answering the tough questions in real time. The very night we discovered the love letters, our eldest child woke up at 1 a.m. and ran into our room to announce he needed to throw up. Simultaneously, my husband and I sat up and yelled, “Throw up in the toilet! But if you can’t make it, at least get to the tile floor!” In true over-achiever fashion, he listened to all our

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instructions and gave us the full trifecta in that one short vomit episode … bedroom carpet, tile floor in the bathroom and on the toilet with the lid closed. People, I do not love vomit even on my best day. It’s probably my number-one parenting weakness. Add pregnancy into it, and I’m helpless against that bodily fluid. As we both got up to handle the situation, my knight in shining armor – the one who wrote me love poems and songs when he was young and clueless about what life would hold for us (especially the amount of vomit parenting would entail) – calmly sent the puker out to me to get changed and get settled back into bed while he painstakingly cleaned up vomit from every corner of our bedroom and bathroom. We laid down back in bed once it was all handled, and I thanked him for handling the clean up. He answered, “No problem babe. I know how much you hate puke.” It was in that moment I realized how silly I was to think any love was lost over the 16 years we’ve walked together so far. Love has changed. Love has transformed. Love has grown. It’s a love that doesn’t always fill up a box with passionate letters, but it fills up a stolen moment with enough passion to sustain and nourish until the next quiet moment is found. It’s a love that doesn’t have to be questioned or remind you of its presence. It encompasses each and every moment of family life. It’s the kiss at the door before we part ways and the comfort of sliding our exhausted bodies into bed at night for that last peaceful, snuggly moment before the exhaustion completely takes over. It’s the shared joy of watching your children succeed, Continued on page 140

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AS LOVE GROWS Continued from page 138

Investment property: What to know before making the leap How do you decide whether an investment property is the right decision for your portfolio? By Holly S. Gibbs First-time real estate investors all start the process with this question. There are plenty of things to consider when choosing the right investment property. TOTAL RETURN When it comes to buying a real estate income property, your return on investment is the most important factor. How much income do you hope to generate over the coming years with your investment property? Determine that amount, and buy accordingly. LOCATION Location does matter, and contrary to poplar belief, you do not have to live in the city where you purchase a rental home. Consider buying property in places of high demand, like a college town or a city where a large company is building its headquarters. PROPERTY AGE AND NEIGHBORHOOD QUALITIES Don’t let an older home that’s a great deal scare you away, but keep in mind it may need a little more tender loving care over the years than a like-new property. RENTAL DEMAND Making sure you’re investing in a market with stable or growing rental demand is the final major factor to consider when picking a real estate income property. You want to avoid putting your cash flow on pause. Follow these simple tips, and you will see a high ROI (return on investment). Holly S. Gibbs is a broker associate with Century 21 J. Carter & Company.

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the shared pain in seeing them struggle, the shared fear when they are sick and the shared laughter when you realize they inherited every quirk you swore you didn’t possess to begin with. It’s a love that holds your hand when bad news comes and dries your tears when life isn’t all you’d hoped for. It’s walking through grief and hardships. It’s learning to budget and grocery shop and keep a house clean and plan for retirement and save for college and juggle what feels like a million balls in the air without ever losing touch in the process … or at least not for long. It’s anger and frustration and “if only you knew” that gives way to conversation and softened hearts and greater understanding. It’s love that is the highest of highs, the lowest of lows and every level in between. It’s felt with the immensity of wedding days and births of children, as well as with the strain of lopsided division of labor. It’s felt in the comfort and complacency of mundane days filled with routines that work like a welloiled machine. It’s the kind of love that rejoices in a fivenight trip to reconnect and get away, only to realize that three nights would have been plenty and the insanity that is family life is missed more than you ever thought possible. It’s love that always ensures there is a cold Diet Coke in the fridge and gets up early on Saturday, keeping the house quiet enough for a highly coveted morning of sleeping in. It’s sushi on the couch in pajamas. It’s a fancy dinner out with clean hair and makeup. It’s the kind of love that appreciates both equally. So what if it’s no longer the kind of love that allows for five-page love letters and books titled “101 Reasons I Love You”? Now, it’s so much more than that kind of love. Maybe your Valentine’s Days won’t always be filled with the flashy romance of a Hollywood rom-com. I’m positive that mine won’t, but maybe it’s time to celebrate the kind of love that has transformed and changed and grown with each and every stage. That love that has been stretched and tried and inflated and has remained. Your own love story, whatever it may be — now that is something worth truly celebrating.

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.

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Volunteers show seniors

love, appreciation

with Adopt a Grandparent Day By Jennifer Gentile

For 2019, 800 volunteers are needed, and online registration opens on Aug. 2 on adoptagrandparentday.org. To learn more, email adoptagrandparentday@gmail.com or call (228) 206-5902.

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Among the elderly, loneliness is an epidemic. Statistics show that about 50 percent of nursing home residents have no relatives, and 46 percent have no living children. By some accounts, as many as 60 percent have no visitors. Kathy Rogers, vice president of Marston Rogers Group, witnessed the problem firsthand in 2013, when her mother, Sybil Pigott, was injured in a fall and spent 30 days recovering in a local nursing home. Although she and other family members visited often, her mother’s emotional state suffered greatly. When her husband, Lee, came to visit, he took the time to talk and joke with residents who were sitting in the hallway — noticing how much the interaction lifted their spirits. “When we were looking for a way for our business to give back to our community that aligned with our heart and values, we decided we wanted to do something for the residents of local nursing homes,” Rogers says, “and Adopt A Grandparent Day was born.” The initiative, launched in 2014 and observed on the Saturday before National Grandparents Day, is meant to recognize and honor the value of the elderly in society and to provide them with love and

affection. This year’s Adopt a Grandparent Day falls on Sept. 7. Past volunteers have included men and women of all ages from all walks of life, including military families, church groups, school clubs, Girl Scout troops and individual citizens who desire to make a difference. In its first year, Adopt a Grandparent Day drew 326 volunteers, who visited 18 nursing homes in Harrison, Hancock and Jackson counties. Last year, roughly 1,500 lives were impacted as volunteers visited residents of 33 nursing homes in Harrison, Jackson, Hancock, Stone, Pearl River and George counties. Rogers says the continued work of AAGD “brings me great satisfaction” and shows that she can make a difference in the lives of both the young and the old. “AAGD helps people, especially young people or those who are not close to (an) older relative, recognize the value of the elderly and what impact a visit, a smile or a simple conversation can have in the lives of the elderly and in (their) own lives,” she adds. “Our goal is for people to make a connection and go back to visit on their own.”

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GCW Affiliate

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

READY

Want to make the start of the school year smoother for you and your student? Here’s some tips for every age group from our Gulf Coast Moms Blog families. PRESCHOOL • Purchase extra-cushy nap mats. • Visit the preschool a few times before the big day, or plan a play date with a child to foster friendships. • Read books about preschool. Some recommendations are “The Night Before Preschool” by Natasha Wing and “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL • Read every day for at least 20 minutes a day.

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Schedule summer library visits and routine story times. • Take first/last day of school pictures. • Find out about themed days and buy items throughout the year on sale. There are so many themed days (Dr. Seuss Day, Red Ribbon Week, Career Day, Picture Day, etc.) and no time to shop. • Knock out reading fair and science fair projects over the summer when your child actually can enjoy it and have more time. It’s really chaotic to complete during the year with everything else going on. MIDDLE SCHOOL • Find out about clubs and extra-curriculars. Encourage your child to try a new activity. • Middle-schoolers don’t like to do things that are unfamiliar. Implement a “thee strikes, you’re out” rule. Your child will try (insert activity), and if they still don’t like it by the third time, they do not have to participate again. • Encourage more responsibility. Give child a budget for school supplies and let them do the shopping. Have them pack their own lunches and put them in charge of their own laundry. • Those tough (and not-so-comfortable) conversations are inevitable at this age. We need to have discussions about puberty, peer pressure and social media (not sharing/posting anything inappropriate). • School is harder academically and socially. Be present and aware.

HIGH SCHOOL • High-schoolers will need their own laptops. Watch for back-to-school sales, and put parental controls in place for times to shut them off at night. • Switch from “chore charts” to “daily expectations.” Display these expectations prominently, and don’t nag! At the end of day, review which expectations were met or not, why, how to meet them the next day and any consequences. This will help teach time management and independence. • Dating will begin. Discuss which attributes to look for in a partner. COLLEGE • Attend orientation — the sooner the better. • Send cards of encouragement, and include gift cards for coffee or food. • Encourage your child to utilize the on-campus services for tutoring, as well as health and fitness centers. The staff is there to help your child succeed. • Let your child lead. Parents should let their child be independent and learn to solve problems on their own. TRANSITION TO NEW SCHOOL • Have older siblings give younger siblings a tour of the new school. • Discuss how to make new friendships. • Remember, adjusting can take time. Children feed off of parents’ energy, so be positive and excited, yet calm. FOR PARENTS • Know how the school communicates to parents, and take advantage of that tool. • The most precious time with your child will be the drive to and from school, so keep it positive. It sets the tone for their day. Although mornings can get hectic, remind them how they are loved and try to guide them in a positive direction (use the Golden Rule, kindness counts, choose quality friendships, do the right thing and make good choices). • Give them grace and listen. Your child is learning. As a parent, admit when you make mistakes so your child can relate. Keep lines of communication open by listening first. • Answer every question your children ask you. They trust their parents and want to feel secure with our answers, so honor their questioning and answer with enthusiasm and love. These questions are serious for them.

• Be present at the school. It lets the teachers, administration and staff know you care. • Show up for parent nights. Go and meet the teachers. Keep open communication with teachers and tell them any concerns you have. • Make sure the school and school nurse are aware of allergies or other health conditions. • Maintain a bedtime routine during the summer. One to two weeks prior, enforce it. STUDY AND HOMEWORK AREA • Have a dedicated homework area stocked with supplies. It helps with focus. Homework can become intense and require lots of concentration as subjects get harder, so this is helpful to everyone. APPS AND DEVICES • Download a list app for the family to use that syncs with everyone’s phone. Make the child responsible for adding items they run out of or need. • Establish well-defined boundaries and time limits for social media. This will make an unbelievable difference in behavior, respect and attention spans in and out of the classroom. Establish rules for devices to keep them safe. Some recommendations are Life360 and Bark. • Teachers really utilize their devices to remind both parents and students about assignments and tests via texts. • Establish a time for child to be in their room at the end of the day without electronics. Either have them charge/plug in phones in a central area (kitchen), or utilize an app that shuts down texting/social media at certain time. Teens need time to decompress at the end of the day without this distraction. MUST-HAVE ITEMS • Invest in a high-quality, sturdy and durable backpack. Recommendations are North Face, Patagonia and Pottery Barn. • Buy school supplies online, and have them shipped to your home or to the store. • Cash in on the sales after the school supply rush is over. Grab extra glue sticks, erasers, pencils and whatever else is cheap, and put it away. Inevitably around Christmas, the teacher will request more supplies, so pull from your stash.

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Find that specialsomething at

COORDINATES COUTURE By Jennifer Gentile

Coordinates Couture began as a hobby for owner Jackie Trebotich-Pegoda – as well as a form of therapy. After losing two husbands to health issues, the D’Iberville/Woolmarket native acknowledges struggling with depression and fear of the future. She wondered what she would do with her life when her children were grown. “I felt as though I needed something to give me drive, so here I am – doing the best that I can with the help of my family, friends and the community to offer smiles to those who walk through the door,” she says, “and (I) hope that smile stays with them through the little gifts and treasures that we offer.” Launching in February in the Courtyard of Mary Mahoney’s Old French House, Coordinates Couture caters to an eclectic clientele, according to the owner – “people looking for home décor, gifts, accessories and apparel, or people (who are) just brows-

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ing.” The store’s Facebook page invites patrons to step into a world “filled with fun, imagination, sophistication and a bit of dramatic detail.” “Everything is handpicked,” Trebotich-Pegoda says of her stock, naming pottery and work by local artists among her most popular items. With more than 30 artists represented at Coordinates Couture, according to the store’s Facebook page, customers can find one-of-a-kind pieces and thoughtful gifts to suit the most discerning tastes. “We believe that the only way to make that perfect moment last is to turn it into a memory,” the page states. “It’s finding that perfect treasure that brings back that moment every time you see it that we hope to offer you.” Explaining why she opted to open a store specializing in unique finds, Trebotich-Pegoda had a relatable reason: “I love to shop!” “It is something that I needed to

do for myself,” she adds of becoming an entrepreneur. “As for significant milestones, I think what most stands out is I have learned a lot, and I have a lot more to learn about owning and operating my own business.” The former nurse appreciates the atmosphere, charm and family-friendliness of the place she calls home. And with Coordinates Couture, she has an opportunity to experience it on deeper level and meet the variety of people who come to the Coast for work and play. “I’m a happy-go-lucky person who loves what I do,” she says. IF YOU GO 110 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi Monday-Friday, 10-6; Saturday, 10-5; closed Sundays (228) 207-1893

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Building a

dream Couple fulfills calling by designing, constructing homes By Jennifer Gentile

For as long as he can remember, Kyle Tootle has wanted to start his own business and harbored a passion for homes. “In high school, I would design houses and present them to my girlfriend (who is now my wife), and she would critique my designs,” he recalls. “While at Mississippi State University pursuing my degree in civil engineering, I would sketch homes on engineering paper when a lecture got uninteresting.” In retrospect, Kyle sees those instances as precursors to the home-building efforts he would undertake with his spouse, Stephanie Tootle. Tootle Homes launched in 2015, offering home design services, and later construction services when Kyle got his contractor’s license. “It has been truly amazing to see how the Lord has taken a dream and turned it into a reality,” Kyle says. “In college, I told Stephanie that ‘I’m going to build things, and she’s going to make things look pretty.’”

Stephanie, the firm’s lead interior designer, earned a degree in her craft at the University of Southern Mississippi, where, she says, “I gained the knowledge to create not only functional spaces, but also aesthetically pleasing spaces.” Despite her qualifications, Stephanie admits that she sometimes defers to another family member. “We have a housing critic named Lillie Bell, who is a white maltipoo puppy,” she says. “She has a keen knack for design.” Lillie Bell also is the greeter for Tootle Homes, which is based at Tradition in Harrison County. The couple built their first home in the Village at Tradition after falling in love with the master-planned community. “We chose this location because it is where we call home, and we are your hometown builder,” Kyle says. “The timeless Southern architecture, friendly neighbors and natural surroundings cultivate a sense of place and inspire me to build something

Husband-wife duo, Kyle and Stephanie Tootle

bigger than myself.” When he and Stephanie undertook their first home build,” he adds, “I realized that all people should have a place to call home.” EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS Whether buyers want a custom home tailored to their specifications or a move-in ready model home, Kyle says his company can accommodate their needs. The company aims to exceed expectations for every client. “Our typical customers are people looking for their first home, forever home, or any other type of home in between,” Kyle says. “We work with people at every stage of life ….” What makes Tootle Homes unique,

Continued on page 152 148

July-August 2019

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“It has been truly amazing to see how the Lord has taken a dream and turned it into a reality." TOOTLE HOMES Continued from page 148 according to the couple, is that every aspect of the new home process is under one roof. The company’s style signature is “new-old” homes with classic, Southern character and modern conveniences, which are architecturally appropriate for the location. “We were both born and raised on the Gulf Coast,” Stephanie says, “and it gives me so much joy to see Kyle giving back to the community that has given so much to us.” Kyle says he finds it important for people to invest in the place where they live by building relationships and serving the community. As Tootle Homes continues to grow and make its mark in the region, he says his biggest challenge is “learning to live in the present and not always being focused on the future.” “I am constantly dreaming, planning and thinking about the next step,” Kyle adds, “and Stephanie does a good job of helping me to relax and live in the moment.”

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LO O K I N G FO R A R E A LTO R ?

W H AT C U STO M E RS SAY A BO U T E R I C A YO U N G “ E r i c a wa s a n a b s o l u t e j oy t o w o r k w i t h . H e r p e r s o na l i t y, d e d i c a t i o n , r e l e n t l e ss p u r su i t t o f i nd exa c t l y w h a t yo u wa n t , a nd h e r p r o f e s s i o n a l i sm , e t h i c s a nd c a r i n g t o ma ke su re yo u r h a p py a nd i t i s a g r e a t f i t fo r yo u , i s s e c o nd t o n o n e ! ! S h e wa s r e c o m m e nd e d by a fa m i l y mem b e r a nd w i t h i n l e ss t h a n 5 m i n u t e s , I k n ew s h e wa s t h e o n e fo r me . S h e w i l l n o t g i ve u p a nd s h e wa s t h e r e t h ro u g h o u t t h e w h o l e p r o c e ss a nd eve n a t t e nd e d t h e c l o s i n g . T h e s c a l e o n l y g o e s t o 5 , b u t s h e i s a t l e a s t 2 a b ove t h a t . Ea sy c h o i c e , sm a r t c h o i c e E r i c a Yo u n g n o q u e s t i o n s ! ”

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HOME sweet HOME The Coast Knows a Secret…

HOME: It’s not just where you hang your hat. Home is where your heart is. And the Mississippi Gulf Coast will win your heart for sure. With 26 miles of sugary sand beaches kissing the Gulf of Mexico and inland bays, bayous and rivers, the Coast is a sportsman’s dream. The year-round mild climate allows for the best fishing, golf, tennis, boating and an array of festivals, culture and entertainment. Our exciting casinos offer world class gaming and talent. It’s Vegas with a beach! Education is a top priority with our progressive community colleges, four-year universities and trade schooling. Our medical services and hospitals attract some of the best practitioners from around the country. And there is a great Veterans Administration Hospital for our local heroes. Now what about a home or a business? Whatever your preference for where you want to hang your hat or your briefcase, let me help you find your way home to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. With 42 years of experience in real estate and a generational native, I know real estate and I know the Coast. You’re invited to a lifetime of sunset celebrations. BeaconInsServices.indd 1

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FAITH

Trust in God’s timing Waiting on the Lord may be one of the most difficult aspects of our Christian walk. I have a feeling some of you, like me, strongly dislike waiting and By Robin Killeen have been asking God, “Where’s the breakthrough? What’s the holdup? What am I waiting for?” Psalms 37:34 says, “Wait for the Lord, and keep his ways.” We all go through that season of waiting — and it is excruciating!

What can we do when God’s timing doesn’t sync with ours? What can we do when God’s timing doesn’t sync with ours? It’s simple, not to be mistaken with easy: We are to become dispensers of hope and encourage others. In my times of excruciating waiting, I have had friends encourage me by saying things like, “While you are waiting in the hallway, praise God until he opens the next door.” And don’t mistake God’s patience for absence. His timing is always perfect, and his presence is always constant.

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This is not a season we can passively coast through, or a time we can even consider giving up. God has a plan designed for each one of us. The times when we face our greatest challenges are the times we experience maximum spiritual growth. Then, we can move from excruciating waiting to active waiting. Thank goodness seasons don’t last forever. As maturing Christian women, we are learning that to accomplish anything for the kingdom of God, we must pray first, and once we have the green light (we might not have all of the details of God’s plan), we are to step out in faith. Although it is his plan, we are to execute and work like it depends on us — with a spirit of excellence. This excruciating waiting will not last forever. Don’t quit now; your promotion or new level is very near. It just may be time to put it in gear, step up, advance forward and accomplish what he desires for us. Father, I pray a blessing over everyone reading this article. I seek hope and success for your daughters. Lord, we claim this season of waiting is over and that we have served you well while we were waiting. I ask that you bring a renewed energy to those who are burned out and to those who have lost their vision. Father, we thank you — and we trust you. In Jesus’s matchless name, Amen. Step up, advance forward and accomplish!

FOOD & ENTERTAINMENT

LUCY’S

Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant With magnificent views and food to match, Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant is quickly becoming one of the Gulf Coast’s premier casual restaurants. Opening this past April after a complete facility overhaul, Lucy’s is an open-air, family- and dog-friendly venue with a laid-back vibe. Located directly on Biloxi Beach, the multi-story building filled with surfboards is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy great food while taking in picturesque waterfront views. The original version of Lucy’s Re-

tired Surfer Bar got its start in 1985, in New York of all places, and has since expanded to New Orleans, Key West, Costa Rica, Aruba, Biloxi and, its newest location, Foley, Alabama. There are plans to open 20 more locations in the next five years. Open for brunch, lunch and dinner, Lucy’s provides creative cocktails and live music and features menus loaded with coastal-inspired favorites and contemporary dishes, all made with the freshest local ingredients. You will want to start with an appetizer or two from the starters

By Chris Dearman section of the menu, where you can choose from homemade dips, oysters, wings and more. If you want something to share, go with the “serious” nachos, which are piled high and easily enough for two or three. The avocado fritas are absolutely phenomenal — fried avocados tossed in a light beer batter served with a black bean salad and fresh chipotle ranch made in house. They literally melt in your mouth. The Taco Shack section of the menu offers classic, shrimp, pork and blackened fish varieties, all garnished with www.gcwmultimedia.com

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black bean salsa and house-made slaw. If you’re in the mood for a special treat, order the Ohana whole fish tacos. The beautifully presented fish is marked on the grill, then oven baked and served whole with an array of accompaniments to build your own tacos. The fish is whatever’s fresh that day, such as flounder, trigger fish, triple tail or (like the day of my visit) red snapper. Unsure how to dig into this impressive dish, I asked chef Jessica Richardson for advice. “Just take the knife underneath, go against the bone and lift it up,” she said. “That’s it!” Besides tacos, you can get burgers, sandwiches, baskets or an entrée from the favorites section of the menu. The bacon-brie chicken sandwich definitely caught my eye, and it didn’t disappoint — grilled, marinated chicken breast topped with crispy bacon, brie, tomato and spinach and served on a brioche bun with creole honey mustard. It blended together perfectly and definitely will make me return. Lucy’s also is known for its cocktails and serves fun concoctions like the shark attack, which comes with an 11-inch plastic shark and the “blood” of its victims. If you are feeling adventurous, try shots of tequila served with either a “potentially hallucinogenic” worm or “possibly venomous” scorpion. Those brave enough to consume them get a cool T-shirt to take home as a badge of honor for bragging rights. When I asked Catherine “Cat” Ryan, general manager 156

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and creator of the official cocktail of the Mississippi Gulf Coast called the Cat Island cruiser, why someone should visit Lucy’s, she said, “It’s Biloxi’s first destination, beach bar location. We’re family friendly (and) pet friendly, with plenty of fun and lots of excitement. It is a summer destination spot whether you’re on vacation or you’re a local.” Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant is open seven days a week, 11 a.m.-12 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 2 a.m. on weekends. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4-7 p.m. and features $5 surf snacks and drink specials. There is a late night menu starting at 10 p.m., and a brunch menu on Saturday and Sunday featuring bloody mary and mimosa specials. You can order drinks to bring to the beach or take on boardwalk strolls. Most weekends feature live entertainment and oyster shucking. IF YOU GO Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant 1775 Beach Blvd. Biloxi, MS (228) 207-4369 www.lucysretiredsurfers.com www.facebook.com/LucysBiloxi

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Don’t sweat the dessert table this By Alyssa Ashmore

FOURTH OF JULY

Fireworks, food, family, fun…and heat — welcome to the Fourth of July on the Gulf Coast! Thankfully, you have the freedom to make food choices that won’t weigh you down, including dessert. Whether you want to catch a break from the heat or you’re simply trying to eat healthier, read on for tips to make healthy and fun patriotic desserts you can enjoy at your celebration.

FRUIT When it comes to a refreshing treat, fruit is one of the first foods to come to mind. Its natural sweetness will prevent a sugar crash, and the juices mean you’re getting water to help with hydration. Want to make it festive? Serve patriotic-colored fruits, or make fun melon shapes with cookie cutters. Fruit also is the go-to choice of dietitians when making healthy desserts. Brynn McDowell, the Domestic Dietitian, specifically mentions the color they provide, which can be a great way to make an attractive dessert without sugar-laden frostings and heavy toppings. Jenny Shea Rawn, the recipe developer and food blogger at My Cape Cod Kitchen, likes to pair summer berries with classic desserts. She did this in her mini berry s’mores sundaes, which are featured on her blog at jennyshearawn.com. Similarly, Sarah Pflugradt, the Salubrious RD, shares her homemade lemon pudding with blueberries at salubriousrd.com and states, “I think anytime you can add fruit into a dessert, you bump up the health factor by including nutrient-dense foods.”

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These extra nutrients mean an energy boost that can carry you through to that long-awaited firework finale.

BITE-SIZED DESSERTS One of the best ways to avoid feeling sluggish in the heat is to avoid eating large quantities of food, as an overly full stomach means your body must focus on digestion. McDowell likes to make small-bite desserts, stating that they are “a great way to enjoy all the sweets and treats without going overboard on portion size.” Not only will this boost your energy, but it gives you the taste of dessert without too many calories. She shares a mini brownie parfait on thedomesticdietitian.com blog that features bite-sized brownie chunks, blueberries, raspberries and whipped cream that are adorable and oh-so festive. COLD TREATS If you’re feeling the brunt of a Mississippi heat wave, there’s nothing like grabbing a scoop of ice cream or a popsicle to cool off. Choose 100 percent fruit popsicles, or make your own bite-sized popsicles by placing washed grapes in the freezer for a fun, all-natural cold treat. Craving ice cream? Enjoy an ice cream cone, stick

This Independence Day, don’t sweat the dessert table. Just choose a healthier option, or bring one with you so you can enjoy your holiday to the fullest. or a 3-ounce cup for a portion-controlled way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Alyssa Ashmore of Passionate Portions Nutrition & Wellness is a registered dietitian nutritionist, author, speaker and nutrition therapist. She can be reached at alyssa@alyssaashmore.com, or visit www.alyssaashmore.com.

Looking for a venue with breathtaking views for your special event?

Your event deserves to be everything you dream of. The Dock has the largest seating capacity on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, breathtaking views, comfortable atmosphere and an elegant setting. From an important corporate function, to a beautiful sunset wedding, The Dock can provide an exceptional experience. We are here to help you plan your event. Tucked away on Gulfport Lake, located just minutes from I-10 and the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, ensuring your guests will make it to your event on time. Host your wedding ceremony or reception against the beautiful backdrop of Gulfport Lake.

Weddings

Wedding ceremonies, rehearsals, and receptions at The Dock are classic and unforgettable, with customizable options that are sure to fit your style and personality.

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Corporate and Special Events

From fundraisers to anniversaries, birthdays, or reunions, The Dock provides a perfectly spacious venue, with the largest seating capacity on the Gulf Coast.

Recreational Activities

Head on over to Wut Sup Paddleboard Shop in Seaway Marine Center and rent a jet ski or paddleboard. Host your event at The Dock and also have some fun on Gulfport Lake!

Waterfront Views of Gulfport Lake

Join us on the weekends or plan your event at The Dock and enjoy the beautiful view of Gulfport Lake. Launch your boat, rent a jet ski from Wut Sup Paddleboard Shop in Seaway Marine Center, or relax on the deck with a refreshing beverage.

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Put a savory

twist

By Lauren Joffrion

on soup, salad CARROT AND SQUASH SOUP INGREDIENTS: 2 Tbsp sesame oil 2 yellow onions (chopped) 2 cloves of garlic 2 Tbsp grated ginger 1 large butternut squash (peeled, cleaned and cubed) 3 large carrots (peeled and chopped) 2 Tbsp honey 6 cups of chicken broth (or veggie broth) 1 Tbsp fish sauce 3 tbsp yellow curry powder 1 (14oz) can of unsweetened coconut milk Squeeze of lime Salt and pepper to taste Optional Garnish: Fried ginger “chips” Sesame oil Cilantro Coconut milk DIRECTIONS: 1. Heat sesame oil in a large soup pot over a medium flame. Add onions and garlic, then sweat the mixture until onions are translucent, but do not brown them. 2. Add ginger, butternut squash and carrots. Cook until they start to soften, then add the chicken broth, honey, fish sauce, coconut milk and curry powder. 3. Let cook with the lid on for about 20 minutes, or until veggies are completely soft. 4. Use a hand immersion blender to puree the soup. You also can puree the soup in batches with a blender and add the soup back to the pot once pureed. 5. Let the pureed soup cook over a medium-low flame while adding the lime juice, salt and pepper. 6. Once you season to taste, the soup is ready to serve (and garnish)!

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SPICY CUCUMBER SALAD INGREDIENTS: 6 mini English cucumbers ½ cup chopped scallions (green part only) 1 handful of cilantro leaves, chopped 1 tsp fresh grated ginger 4 Tbsp sesame oil 1 ½ Tbsp rice vinegar 1 serrano (or jalapeno) pepper, diced ½ cup dry roasted peanuts Togarashi spice Kosher salt DIRECTIONS: 1. Cut cucumbers into small chunks (as pictured). Line a colander with paper towels and lay the chopped cucumbers on top. Sprinkle a good amount of kosher salt over the cucumbers and let them sit for 30 minutes. This allows them to “weep” and shed excess water. 2. While you wait on your cucumbers, make your vinaigrette. In a blender, add the scallions, cilantro, ginger, sesame oil, vinegar, and serrano (or jalapeno). Blend until smooth and add extra oil or vinegar if needed. 3. Once the cumbers are ready, pat them with a fresh paper towel and toss them in the vinaigrette. Plate to serve and garnish with the dry roasted peanuts and togarashi spice. Lauren Joffrion is the sous chef and pastry chef of Field’s Steak and Oyster Bar in Bay St.Louis. Additionally, she has a food blog at hellbraiser.com. She can be reached at (228) 209-2663.

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COAST CARES

NDORI committed to tackling obesity, diabetes epidemic By Emily L. Thevis The National Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute, or NDORI, is expanding services in the Gulf Coast area for 2019. NDORI was established as a nonprofit in 2015 with the mission to: • Reduce diabetes and obesity incidence nationally through education, treatment and prevention • Conduct and share groundbreaking clinical trials and research in the pursuit of finding a cure for diabetes and obesity • Address healthcare disparities in underserved populations We are located in the Tradition community and are a core component in the growth of the Learning Medical City, nestled between Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Bryant Center and William Carey University’s Tradition campus. Mississippi reports the highest rates of obesity, pre-diabetes, and type 2 diabetes in the nation, with over a third of its population affected — many of whom are undiagnosed. However, the access to care for these chronic diseases is limited. Compounding the issue is a deficiency in coverage for preventative services, disease management and education. To say Mississippi is an underserved population is an understatement. NDORI seeks to correct these health disparities in our region and improve access to care. We aim to achieve this by building a state-of-the-art research facility; collaborating with world-renown researchers, physicians and institutions; initiating scientific training and educational platforms; linking research activities to telehealth to improve access for 162

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rural populations; developing effective treatment protocols and methods; and translating programs to the community — all while impacting the economy by reducing dollars spent on diabetes and obesity. NDORI recently has opened a clinic with access to both endocrinology and weight-management services that are physician supervised and dietitian driven, using evidence-based best practices. We offer: • Individual physician visits for weight management and endocrine disorders • Individual medical nutrition therapy visits with a registered dietitian for disease management • Shared medical appointments with physician, dietitian and peer support • Medically supervised weight-loss program with full meal replacements • Diabetes self-management education and training in a group setting • Grant-funded diabetes prevention program with access to fresh, Mississippi-grown produce at a reduced cost among Hancock, Harrison, Stone, Jackson, and George counties • Investigator-initiated clinical trials • Indirect calorimetry to measure metabolic rate. We also have partnered with Gen1

Research to increase access to clinical trial opportunities for the residents of the Gulf Coast for a variety of chronic diseases. Our partners across the region include Coastal Family Health, Memorial Hospital at Gulfport, New Orleans East Hospital and North Sunflower Medical Center. We seek to continue building a team of researchers, experts, staff, students, volunteers and donors. The residents of the Gulf Coast need support as we continue to expand our education, treatment, prevention and research efforts. Through our continued growth and endeavors to accomplish the mission of NDORI, we will continue seeking and developing strategies that generate positive outcomes. We aim to align the goals of the organization with the health care needs of individuals, all while making an impactful difference in the incidence of diabetes and obesity and reducing their prevalence. We cannot achieve this mission alone, but together we can. Emily L. Thevis is director of education for The National Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute. She is a registered dietitian and certified specialist in obesity and weight management. NDORI is located at 19289 St. Joseph St., Suite C, Biloxi. To contact the organization or learn more, call (228) 831-8764 or visit www.ndori.org.

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