Gulf Coast Woman July 2023

www.gcwmultimedia.com

FOUNDER

Dr. Angela Bruni

PUBLISHER & EDITOR

Dorothy P. Wilson

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Sherry Moxley Seaman

MARKETNG DIRECTOR

Crystal Scretching

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Jennifer Gentile

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Weddings & Events

Jasmine Ball

Carla Biasi

Maria Barr

Tracy Daniel-Hardy

Heather Dubuisson

Christina Kemp

Amy Lancaster

Skylar Mavar

Jennifer Miller

Kathy Rogers

Heidi Sexton

Susie Siemiontkowski

Dr. J. Keith Thompson

Darlene Underwood

Cherie Ward

Dr. Alisha Ware

Chelsey Windham

Angelyn Treutel Zeringue

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brandi Stage Portraiture

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Farrah Underwood

ON THE COVER

Photographer: Brandi Stage Portraiture

Hair and makeup: Brittney M. Johnson and HD Hair and Makeup

Wardrobe/accessories: Capri and Jewelry Box, Beau Rivage (Mary); Aloha Glamour (Alexis) Cynthia and Heather Dubuisson(Cynthia); Cynthia's jewelry, Jewelry Box.

SUCCESS

SHOWCASE

COVER SUBJECTS

Cynthia Chauvin • Alexis Williams Mary Cracchiolo

CONTACT US

3413-A Washington Ave. Gulfport, MS 39507 (228) 539-2422

CustomerService@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

SALES

Sherry@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

Angelabruni@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

Angelique@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com

© 2023 Gulf Coast Woman is published 12 times per year and is available free of charge. We encourage your comments, suggestions and submissions; however, we do not accept unsolicited documents or manuscripts. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

“Event spending to rise by 83% in 2023.”

Always by your side. Every step of the way.

Always by your side. Every step of the way.

Cutting edge treatments and clinical trials.

Close to Home

Cutting edge treatments and clinical trials. Close to Home

At The Medical Oncology Group, we are proud to provide comprehensive, leading-edge care for patients in our community with cancer and blood disorders. As the longest running oncology group on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, we are dedicated to our friends, families, and neighbors. We offer four convenient clinic locations in South Mississippi, allowing you to receive top quality care close to home.

At The Medical Oncology Group, we are proud to provide comprehensive, leading-edge care for patients in our community with cancer and blood disorders. As the longest running oncology group on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, we are dedicated to our friends, families, and neighbors. We offer four convenient clinic locations in South Mississippi, allowing you to receive top quality care close to home.

228.575.1234

228.575.1234

TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com

TheMedicalOncologyGroup.com

Accepting new patients at all locations: Diamondhead, Gulfport, Biloxi, Ocean Springs

Accepting new patients at all locations: Diamondhead, Gulfport, Biloxi, Ocean Springs

Sidra Khalid, M.D.

Pamela Tuli, M.D.

Hamza Minhas, M.D.

Sidra Khalid, M.D.

Pamela Tuli, M.D.

Hamza Minhas, M.D.

SAVE THE date!

Breakfast with the Mayor

July 19, 8-9:30 a.m.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Biloxi

The Biloxi Chamber of Commerce's Breakfast with the Mayor is a chance for the business community to be updated on the state of the city by Biloxi Mayor Andrew "FoFo" Gilich. Attendees enjoy networking and breakfast. The outstanding police officer and firefighter of the third quarter will be recognized, and the 42nd annual Biloxi Seafood Festival poster will be unveiled. Posters will be available for purchase at the breakfast.

Third Friday Pascagoula

July 21, 5 p.m.

Downtown Pascagoula

Chapel Hart

July 16, 8 p.m.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Immersive Media Performing Arts Center (iMPAC)

With Mississippi roots and Louisiana spice, Chapel Hart has captivated the country music scene worldwide, winning accolades everywhere from Nashville to the United Kingdom and beyond. Sisters Danica and Devynn Hart and cousin Trea Swindle grew up singing together in Poplarville and honed their skills busking on the streets of New Orleans. Their Dolly Parton-inspired single, “You Can Have Him Jolene,” won awards in Scotland and hit number one on iTunes.

Kroc & Roll Sunset Run 2023

July 8, 6:30 p.m.

Race starts and ends at Golden Nugget Hotel and Casino, Biloxi

Come enjoy the beautiful Coast sunset as you run/walk over the Biloxi-Ocean Springs Bridge and support the Salvation Army Kroc Center. Entrants can participate in the 5K or 10K, with awards given to first overall male and female finishers. Packet pickup will take place Friday, July 7, from 5-8 p.m. at the Kroc Center in Biloxi. Sign up or learn more at https://krocmscoast. com/KrocMSCoast/events/krocrollsunsetrun2023.

Join Main Street Pascagoula for this festival-style event, held each month from March through October. Third Fridays feature live music, kids activities, vendors, and specials at downtown businesses.

Cinema by the Shore - The Croods

July 21, 6 p.m.

Jones Park, Gulfport

Bring the kids for a fun, free outdoor showing of “The Croods - A New Age,” and enjoy eats from local food trucks and activities prior to the movie. For more information, call (228) 868-5789.

Angel Leigh returns to the Mississippi

Gulf Coast

July 29, meet and greet 2:30 p.m.; gallery reading 3 p.m.

Hilton Garden Inn, Biloxi

Angel Leigh, a renowned spiritual messenger, has been featured on A&E TV Network, the Travel Channel, WLOX News, USA Today, The Tennessean, and other media outlets throughout the country. To learn more and secure your spot for an unforgettable afternoon, visit www. angelleigh.org.

Independence Day Fireworks

Extravaganza: Shuckers vs. Braves

July 3, 6:35 p.m., fireworks 9-9:15 p.m. Kick off your Fourth of July celebrations with the Biloxi Shuckers at MGM Park. Enjoy Shuckers baseball followed by a mega Fireworks Extravaganza presented by Merit Health Biloxi. Learn more or purchase tickets via https://www. milb.com/biloxi.

Annual Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo

July 1-4, Gates open at noon and close at 10:30 p.m.

Jones Park/Gulfport Harbor, Gulfport

The annual Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo, a tradition of the Gulf Coast since 1947, features food, live entertainment and, of course, competitive fishing, which has attracted prize-seekers from numerous states and beyond. Young contestants can participate in a kids’ fishing rodeo. Fireworks are scheduled at dusk (around 8:30 p.m.) p.m. on July 4. Learn more at https://www. mississippideepseafishingrodeo.com/.

Finding her way on the fairway

MGCCC student helps provide network support at U.S. Open

What does golf have to do with computers? More than you expect, says Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College student Diane Lopez-Martell, who just spent two weeks in June helping set up, troubleshoot, and operate the network that supported the 123rd U.S. Open Championship at the Los Angeles Country Club.

As one of only two students in the nation chosen to serve on the CISCO Dream Team this summer, she helped provide network support to the golf championship team, players, vendors, and more than 700,000 fans.

“The sheer magnitude of the event requires months of preparation and coordination with hundreds of vendors and others,” she said. “It is invaluable experience and allowed me to acquire knowledge about networking and troubleshooting that I would not otherwise have had. I am so grateful for this opportunity.”

In addition to an all-expense-paid trip to work the event, Lopez-Martell has been highlighted through a series of stories on the Golf Digest website for her work and contribution to the event with Cisco.

“The PGA and Golf Digest will know how many golfing fans and world-class facilities the Mississippi Gulf Coast has,” she said. “And of course, I will be shouting about the great work done here at MGCCC as well.”

From Gulfport, she is working on completing her Data Analytics and Computer Programming degrees at the college’s Harrison County Campus. Having worked in the hospitality and casino industry for many years, she wants to pursue a career in computer technology and networking.

“It has been a lifelong goal of mine to work in IT,” she said. “This opportunity to be on the Cisco Dream Team has given me a boost to get me started in my new career.”

Lopez-Martell said she would not have been able to experience this opportunity without the support of her MGCCC information technology instructors.

“I cannot thank those who supported me at MGCCC enough for helping me accomplish my goals,” she said. “That includes Dr. Jamie Gruich and my other instructors at MGCCC, including Bradley Marx, Vic Gauthreaux, and Robin Hayes. Their support, dedication, and endless patience helped me tremendously. This award is not just for me. It shows the whole nation what a great job MGCCC is doing in preparing students for their careers.”

Lopez-Martell, front at left, at MGCCC’s 2023 commencement ceremony with Ryan Gremillon, front at right, and back from left, Dr. Jamie Gruich and Tyler Jenkins.

Diane Lopez-Martell, right, and Austin Buffington on internship at the Los Angeles Country Club, learning computer technology with Cisco and Zafari prior to the U.S. Open.

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Gulfport thrives at 125

“Our journey is one of remarkable progress. Even confronting natural disasters and economic transformations, our unwavering resilience carries us forward. Rising stronger and more unified through each challenge, Gulfport's success is a testament to our enduring spirit.”

— Mayor Billy Hewes

BY CHERIE WARD

The city of Gulfport is set to celebrate its 125th anniversary this month, and officials have big plans to mark the milestone.

The city will host a picnic in the park celebration on July 29 at Jones Park, and revelers are invited to bring blankets, ice chests and food as they join the festivities. There will be a March of the Neighborhoods that will include participants from about 20 nearby residential communities, as well as live entertainment and kids’ activities. The festivities will end with a huge fireworks show.

By any measure, the city has much to celebrate. Gulfport is the second-largest city in the Magnolia State, but during its 1898 incorporation, it was a booming lumber town that eventually grew with the construction of the G&SI Railroad and the deepening of the port. The city currently offers a myriad of cultural and eclectic restaurants, massive entertainment venues, thrilling recreational adventures and booming industry pillars.

Not even the pandemic could keep the city from

At top, aerial view of Port of Gulfport.

Above, Aerial view of Gulfport transit development project, featuring a bike, tram and pedestrian bridge over Highway 90

progressing, with the Mississippi Aquarium opening in the summer of 2020 and quickly becoming a draw for locals and visitors alike. Activities like the Harbor Lights Festival have become beloved local traditions.

“Our journey is one of remarkable progress,” says Mayor Billy Hewes. “Even confronting natural disasters and economic transformations, our unwavering resilience carries us forward. Rising stronger and more unified through each challenge, Gulfport's success is a testament to our enduring spirit.”

One of the city’s most vibrant and thriving landmarks is the Mississippi State Port of Gulfport, a waterborne commerce and an economic driver for the Gulf Coast that has seen consistent growth in recent years.

The maritime exploration and technology company Ocean Aero recently relocated and built a new 67,000-square-foot headquarters at the port’s East Pier, with design and buildout provided by AnderCorp and Machado Patano Design Group.

“AnderCorp’s mission is to provide professional services on transformative projects such as relocating Ocean Aero’s manufacturing and headquarters to the Mississippi State Port of Gulfport,” AnderCorp Executive Vice President Roy Anderson IV said. “Alongside our design-build partner, Machado Patano Design Group, we are proud to be a team member of this development, which serves as a significant milestone in Mississippi’s Blue Economy initiative.”

OceanAero was the first major private-sector tenant at the $600 million state-of-the-art port, which is also home to the nation’s newest primary maritime Center of Excellence: The University of Southern Mississippi Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise. The research and development center has partnered with the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration and the Naval Oceanographic Office. The center has a strong

AS MILESTONE ARRIVES, CITY GEARS UP FOR A GOOD TIME

focus on uncrewed marine systems and blue technology innovation.

The Gulfport/Biloxi International Airport is another source of pride for city leaders. As the second-largest airport in the state and a centrally located travel hub on the Coast, the facility easily sees more than 800,000 travelers annually.

But the city’s crown jewel is the $90 million, 50-acre beachfront Centennial Plaza, a once-blighted property. The mixed-use hospitality and entertainment destination parallels the majestic Mississippi Sound on the former site of the Veterans Administration Medical Center. The reimagined land use of the historic campus includes two distinct hotels, a pair of restaurants and event spaces that host frequent festivals. It’s also “Cruise Central” for America’s top annual classic car show – Cruisin’ the Coast. The festival is known as “America’s Largest Block Party” and hauled in a statewide economic impact of just over $36 million from out-of-town spenders in 2022.

Another point of pride is the $18 million transit development that is under way. It’s a pivotal project that will provide a public tram over U.S. 90, include paths for walking and biking and connect the Mississippi Aquarium campus

to the green space of Jones Park and the small craft harbor. It also includes a 550-vehicle parking garage and should be completed in 2024.

With such a rich history and so many positive developments happening, it’s clear the city of Gulfport has good reason to celebrate.

“We thrive on unity, progress through shared dreams and building our future through collective efforts,” Hewes says. “I look forward to marking this milestone with each of you as we continue to write Gulfport's remarkable story.”

City of Gulfport 125th Anniversary Celebration

July 29, 5:30 p.m.

Jones Park, Gulfport

Gulfport is marking its 125th anniversary with a big celebration, featuring live entertainment, food trucks, games, a bounce house, a March of the Neighborhoods that will include participants from about 20 nearby residential communities and more. Bring a blanket, lawn chair and ice chest to enjoy a picnic in the park, which will culminate with a fireworks show beginning at 8:45 p.m.

Embrace the aloha spirit — for a cause

Guests to this year’s Don’t Worry Be Happy celebration are invited to embrace the spirit of Aloha as the event takes on a tropical theme.

The annual gathering, benefitting the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi, will be held on July 21 at the Biloxi Civic Center. One of the highlights will be the presentation of the 2023 Annette O’Keefe Humanitarian Award, MHASM’s highest distinction, to local luminary Susan Hunt.

Hunt’s name may be synonymous with Carnival Season on the Coast, but MHASM is recognizing her efforts to promote mental health and wellness among children and adults alike. She was a teacher and school administrator for more than 30 years, but she didn’t stop her work with children upon retirement. She is in charge of the Excel By Five program in Biloxi, helping children, parents and grandparents in the early years. She also is a past executive director of the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce. She has deep family roots in Mardi Gras and is a mainstay near City Hall during the parades.

As an Annette O’Keefe Award winner, Hunt is in good company. Past honorees include Dorothy Tinsler, Lynn Frisby, Kearn Cherry, Dr. H. Todd Coulter, Peggy Sprabery, Mona Rose, Lynda Favre, Elaine Stevens, James Edward Bates, Karen Sock, Walter and Katherine Blessey, Dorothy P. Wilson, Todd Trenchard, LuAnn Pappas and Kevin Felsher.

MHASM also will recognize the following community honorees at the event: Tenesha Danielle Batiste, Natalie Bonner, Denois and Dr. Racheal Butler, Dan and Carrie Duncan Cuevas, Keith Davis, Susie Davis, Hope Dossett, Geneva Dummer, Joan Hampton, state Rep. Jeffrey Hulum III and Angela Singletary. Each has a passion for mental health and wellness.

These honoree’s will be helping to raise funds for MHASM’s programs by presenting live auction items for bid. The online silent auction will open a week prior to Don’t Worry Be Happy and close at 9 p.m. on July 21.

The fun kicks off at 6 p.m. with a VIP party, followed by the main event at 7 p.m. Guests will be treated to food tastings from local restaurants, games, a silent auction and more. Admission is $50.

To learn more about MHASM and its programs, visit https://msmentalhealth.org/. Tickets and sponsorships can be purchased at https://us.givergy.com/DontWorryBeHappy.

Don’t Worry Be Happy with the Mental Health Association of South Mississippi

July 21, 6 p.m. VIP party; 7 p.m. main event

Biloxi Civic Center

Singletary

Cuevases

Butlers Dummer

Dossett

Hulum

Hampton

Davis Bonner

Hunt

Davis Batiste

SUCCESS SHOWCASE

Putting deserving women in the spotlight

In every issue of Gulf Coast Woman, we strive to celebrate women on the Coast. But this issue, our annual Success Showcase, is special and puts hundreds of South Mississippi’s most successful women front and center. We particularly enjoy introducing you to faces you may not recognize because they prefer to make a difference in the background. What does success look like? It often takes the form of a woman who perseveres, who creates, who strives to leave everything she touches better than she found it. So, settle in and spend some time to get to know these successful women. They'll inspire you!

BY

Photography by Brandi Stage Portraiture

CYNTHIA CHAUVIN

ALEXIS WILLIAMS

MARY CRACCHIOLO

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85 YEARS OF SHIPBUILDING LEGACY

With more than 11,000 people in the workforce, Ingalls recognizes that every shipbuilder is an integral part of their mission to build ships that are strong and highly capable for our country’s military.

Whether they are designing, crafting, testing ships, training the next generation of shipbuilders, or recruiting talent, an Ingalls shipbuilder is building freedom and creating a world-class shipbuilding legacy. Our shipbuilders are honored to build tomorrow’s fleet today.

‘Live life in color’

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Her bright, bold designs have graced major media platforms like GQ and Oprah.com, and she can count several celebrities among her fans.

But when she founded her fashion brand, Aloha Glamour, Alexis Williams had no thoughts of making it big; she was simply desperate to heal. While the U.S. Air Force veteran was stationed in Hawaii in 2015, her daughter, Lauren Taylor, died before birth. Within the same 60-day period, Williams also endured a divorce and had to relocate to Mississippi with two young children — her son, Kaileb, and daughter, Laila.

“It was a lot to deal with,” Williams recalls. “I felt like I needed something to bring me back to myself. That’s where Aloha Glamour came in; it helped me commemorate my daughter and find joy again.”

So much hardship in so short a time drained the color from Williams’s world, but it also fueled her resolve. Gradually, her life became vibrant again. Aloha Glamour’s playful, eclectic patterns, inspired by both African and Hawaiian culture, reflect her mantra: “Live life in color.”

“I am driven by the desire to support and empower women who have experienced loss or felt isolated with their loss,” she says. “Hearing stories from women who have been impacted by my story and work keeps me going. I want to ensure that no woman ever feels alone or unsupported.”

HER CUP OVERFLOWS

Although she’s a self-described “shy person” who prefers to stay hidden, Williams’s accomplishments have propelled her out of the shadows — and showed her how to lead. Some might get a big head if celebrities like film and TV star Nico Santos wore their designs, as he did Williams’s for a recent magazine photoshoot, but she takes none of her good fortune for granted.

“It’s important to stay humble and grateful for the blessings in life, as well as to help others along the way,” she says. “When we give to others, we receive even more in return, keeping our cup overflowing.”

To that end, Williams partners with Fresh Oil Ministries Food Pantry once a month to help the underfed and

underserved. As a speaker, she often shares her knowledge of topics including mental health, brand building and the importance of connection.

During the darkest time of her life, Williams found solace in her community, which prompted her to create the Mississippi Gulf Coast Black Owned Business Network. In her role as founder, she connects entrepreneurs and consumers, provides resources and facilitates connections with entities like The Small Business Administration and Google.

“As a black business owner, I understand the challenges that come with a lack of funding and opportunities,” Williams says. “By providing a space for these businesses, I hope to make a positive impact in the world and create a source of income for those who have been historically marginalized.”

TRUSTING HER INTUITION

As the only female African American female air-traffic controller in her class and operational tower, Williams says her experience of racism helped her develop resilience and determination. Her time in the military also taught her the value of discipline, hard work and perseverance. While there’s no single “secret” to her success, Williams maintains that prayer is key.

“I always ask for guidance and strength to pursue my goals, and I also trust my intuition and take risks even when I’m scared; nothing will ever be perfect,” she says. “I’m not afraid to stand up for what I believe in, even if it means being different.”

Although she’s won numerous honors, including the Top 50 Black Women in Business in Mississippi award, the Lighthouse Business and Professional Women’s Young Careerist award and a Top Influencer award at the Success Women’s Conference, what matters most to Williams is waking up each day and doing what she loves. She dreams of eventually seeing Aloha Glamour flagship stores around the world, and in the meantime, she has plenty to keep her busy. She’ll be heading to Phoenix Fashion Week in October, spending a few weeks in Los Angeles with a celebrity stylist and then traveling as a guest to Paris Fashion Week if she can raise the funds.

EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES

Locally, Williams wants to partner on fashion-related projects with casinos, Gulfport-Biloxi Airport, The Mississippi Aquarium and other establishments. She’d also like to host an annual “Live in Color” fashion show, which would help support a free school in Ghana that she visits every year. Yet another idea involves collaborating with shopping centers on a program that would allow small business owners like her to operate a storefront and grow their companies without the stress of high overhead.

“Additionally, I am passionate about developing an African American Studies program within the school district to educate young men and women about the importance of our history and heritage,” she says. “Of course, we would have a fashion show to celebrate.”

Alexis Williams spreads aloha through fashion, giving back

Photo by Brandi Stage Portraiture

From left to right, standing: Amy Olier, Director Compensation; Angela Welch, Director

Center Ops; Cheryl Lemasters, Exec Director Retail Ops; Brooke Pardoe, Exec Director Charter Services; Mary Cracchiolo-Spain, Director of Communications; Sara Chatham, Director Recreation Services; Abbey McDermott, Director Guest Experience; Cheri Woods-Garrick, Sr. Manager Environmental Services; Sugheiry Colondres, Director

From left to right, seated: Coleen Spencer, Executive Housekeeper; Alyson Smith, Director

Angie Roberts, Director Risk Management; Tram Suit, Customer Development Executive; Allison Smith-Mitchell, VP Human Resources Regional Ops; Lauren Ducré, Director Workforce Management; Kimberly Pelaez, VP Human Resources; Rachel Hebert, Manager National Sales; Ann Mayberry, Director Direct Marketing Ops

Commitment, Professionalism, Knowledge

Sherry Owen enjoys a reputation for commitment to her clients, unparallel professionalism and diverse knowledge of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A long· time resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast with deep family roots dating back to the 1950’s, the Mississippi Gulf Coast has allowed her to successfully move forward with the introduction of an inordinate number of newcomers to the fantastic amenities the Mississippi Gulf Coast has to offer.

ln 1984, Sherry Owen decided to follow her interests and talents and pursue a career in real estate. Her keen business sense, incredible eye for design, and innovative marketing strategies has earned her a top spot in not only residential sales but also in land, condo, and commercial sales. All these attributes and her dedication have led to the growth and success of her business.

This year will generate challenges addressing specifically the real estate market and the economy in general. The inventory of homes is not as prolific as it was in years past and with the interest rate increase, we do not know the final impact on the real estate economy.

The cost of insurance is always as issue we must address and with the recent storms in Mississippi and Louisiana the cost of insurance continues may rise but there are available options in that regard.

However, we do not think those events will seriously alter the real estate activity on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Over the years

our market prices have been lower than other areas. We cannot determine at this juncture if the cash buyer will be as prevalent this year as it was last year. There is one constant and that is the beauty and excitement of the Mississippi Gulf Coast enhanced further by the great entertainment and other amenities offered by the casino industry. Moreover, the increase in superior restaurants and the music entertainment offered by various restaurants and lounges is a significant plus for the coastal area. The Coast will continue to expand and the opportunities available for those who live on the Mississippi Gulf Coast is unprecedented. The continued expansion of the Mississippi Gulf Coast and the emphasis on safety makes the real estate economy in Mississippi more appealing than New Orleans and Mobile.

If you are interested in investing in commercial or residential property, or if your interest is aligned with beach front property, please feel free to contact my office. We have agents, brokers and an appraiser available to service your needs and wants.

Sherry is a lifetime member of the Million Dollar Round Table and has consistently earned Top Producer awards from the Mississippi Gulf Coast Association of Realtors, Inc. In 2002, Sherry formed Owen and Company and under her leadership, guidance, and unselfish dedication of working seven days a week, Owen and Company has gained a significant share of the Mississippi Gulf Coast real estate market.

SHERRY L. OWEN, ABR, CRS, GRI, SFR Broker-Owner

The children’s champion

Cynthia Chauvin helps give abused, neglected kids a voice

Many people slowed down during the COVID pandemic, but not Cynthia Chauvin.

The hard-charging executive director of CASA of Hancock County went back to school after 25 years and earned a master-of-jurisprudence degree, all while working a full-time job and acting as her mother’s caregiver. During that time, she also went through an unexpected divorce.

Chauvin could have played her hand any number of ways, but she chose to “let go and let God.”

“I dug in and persevered; for that, I am incredibly proud of myself,” she says. “Overcoming adversity is a part of life. It’s our individual response to it that is unique.”

NOT JUST A JOB – A VOCATION

Passionate and determined, Chauvin has a career in child welfare spanning over 23 years. The nonprofit she heads, CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates), supports children in need.

“Problem solving with our volunteers and staff keeps me connected to our mission and armed with real-life scenarios that speak to why CASA advocates are necessary in cases of abuse and neglect,” she says. “I often refer to this work as a vocation, as I feel that God led me to CASA.”

The Marrero, Louisiana, native is a trained educator and taught middle school for five years – an experience that showed her how important an adult can be in a child’s life. She’d intended to teach until retirement, but in 2001, she came across an open position in juvenile court that interested her.

“Working within the juvenile court system on behalf of kids was the perfect fit; it blended my civics and government interest with being concerned about the wellbeing of children from hard places.” Chauvin says. “The icing on the cake was really the volunteer component. CASA advocates are volunteers who stand in the gap for their kids and absolutely make a profound difference in their lives.”

TAKING THE LEAP

She continued working for CASA with the Jefferson Parish Juvenile Court until 2013, when increasing crime and declining quality of life caused her to look elsewhere. Her plan was to buy a second home on the Gulf Coast to serve as a weekend getaway

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

for a while, and before making a purchase, she’d learned the CASA Director position was open in Hancock County.

“Simultaneously, the county was facing a crisis, having over 300 children in foster care,” Chauvin recalls. “The challenge intrigued me, and I took the leap.

“The decision to relocate homes and jobs has blessed me in countless ways. The Hancock County community embraced me, and they embraced CASA.”

Ever since her first job with the organization, an entry-level position recruiting, training and supporting volunteers, Chauvin knew she’d found her calling. Since then, she’s seen thousands of children grow up in difficult circumstances and beat the odds.

“Working alongside everyday people who take time out of their own lives to help children navigate the overwhelming CPS and Youth Court systems and ensure their voice is heard truly humbles me …,” she says. “There is nothing better than seeing one of your former children breaking the cycle of abuse and neglect.”

SERVICE ABOVE SELF

Heading an organization that wouldn’t exist without volunteers, Chauvin feels compelled to give back. She’s president of the Rotary Club of Bay St. Louis and a member of the all-female Krewe of Nereids and the Bay St. Louis 2045 Community Planning Steering Committee. Her efforts have led to recognition as 2022 Rotarian of the Year from the Rotary Club of Bay St. Louis, Nonprofit Woman of Achievement from Lighthouse Business and Professional Women, National CASA Association Executive Director of the Year from Kappa Alpha Theta Fraternity, among several other honors.

Chauvin attributes her service-aboveself philosophy to her father, a longtime Rotarian in South Louisiana who modeled integrity and a strong work ethic. Like him, she feels a deep commitment to her role: protecting kids.

“Honestly, I can’t think of any type of work that is more important than safeguarding children who have already experienced trauma in their lives,” she says. “CASA has made me a better human.”

THE BEST IS YET TO COME

Serving as her mother’s caregiver for

six years also had a profound impact on Chauvin, making her realize how fleeting life is and motivating her to cherish every moment. It also caused her to reflect on what makes her happy and pursue a healthier work-life balance.

“While I am deeply committed to securing the resources and leading an organization that truly impacts the lives of children in need, I also recognize that I need personal satisfaction,” she says.

Personally and professionally, Chauvin has never been happier. To celebrate her recent 50th birthday, she treated herself to a trip to Greece and has plans to travel more in the coming years.

With so much going for her, the tireless children’s advocate believes this next decade could be her best yet.

“In terms of hopes and dreams, while it may seem cliché, I am right where I want to be, doing the work I was meant to do,” Chauvin says. “I’m just ready to keep it going.”

Photo by Brandi Stage Portraiture

Shay Woodward and Kristie McCready, co-founders of The Parlour on Lorraine, transformed an empty space into a remarkable venue that captivates guests with its vintage charm. Located in Gulfport’s Bayou View neighborhood, this intimate venue offers an exclusive ambiance that is unmatched on the Gulf Coast. The idea for The Parlour stemmed from a road trip where Shay and Kristie saw a need for an intimate space in the area. Kristie’s passion for travel and Shay’s love for antiques and creative innovation influenced the venue’s design, resulting in an exquisite atmosphere.

Since the Parlour’s establishment, Shay and Kristie have embarked on a remarkable journey, achieving significant milestones along the way. Kristie, a seasoned hairstylist and esteemed salon owner recognized nationwide, brings her exceptional interpersonal finesse to The Parlour. On the other hand, Shay, with over 18 years of hospitality experience, adds a creative touch with an attention to detail to every gathering at The Parlour.

With a capacity of 60 people, this versatile venue serves as a space for education, photoshoots, workshops, and private gatherings. Community engagement is a priority for The Parlour.

The Parlour caters to the needs of the Gulfport community and surrounding area through collaborating with local businesses. They actively partner with women-led local businesses, providing them with an opportunity to grow and showcase their work.

Looking ahead, Shay and Kristie envision a future of growth and expansion while supporting other women in their respective industries. To aspiring female entrepreneurs in the Gulf Coast region, Shay and Kristie offer valuable advice: Find a mentor and follow your passion. They credit their own mentors for supporting them throughout their journey, turning challenges into inspiration and ultimately leading to their success.

In conclusion, Shay Woodward and Kristie McCready’s journey with The Parlour embodies their belief that if something simultaneously excites and scares you, it’s worth pursuing. Their commitment to creating a space where dreams come true and fostering success is evident in every aspect of The Parlour. With its vintage charm, collaborative spirit, and dedication to empowering women, The Parlour on Lorraine sets a new standard for success on the Gulf Coast.

“Let the accomplishments of every woman inspire and empower one another, for our greatest strength lies in our support of each other”

- Kristie and Shay

SHAY WOODWARD Co-Founder

KRISTIE McCREADY Co-Founder

Mission STILL Possible!

Women are leading the way in caring for animals in South Mississippi. Forty-six of their 48 staff members are female, and they’re passionate about what they do to make sure every pet in South Mississippi has a loving home. Here’s a quick overview of how they and the rest of their team are making significant tracks in animal welfare.

PAWsitive Outcomes for the past year (June 2022-June 2023)

• 3,050 abandoned animals were adopted into loving homes.

• 1,176 orphaned animals were placed into foster care with weekly medical check-ups.

• 280 animals were loaded aboard HSSM’s Love Train and were transported to other shelters where there was a need for an excess of adoptable pets.

• 573 lost pets have been reunited with their owners.

• 192 animals found placement at a breed specific rescue or were returned to the field as part of the feral freedom program.

• 5,346 free or low cost spay/neuter surgeries

have been performed to reduce pet overpopulation in South Mississippi.

• 3,301 pets were served through HSSM’s Community Clinic.

HSSM continues to defy adversity with passion and purpose, despite the challenges faced post-pandemic.

Key post-pandemic trends to note

FEWER PETS BEING ADOPTED: While shelter pet shelter populations declined significantly at the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, they are now starting to creep back up, particularly due to an influx of stray dogs likely dumped by their owners. With the COVID-19 pandemic closing offices and schools and keeping many Americans at home much more than normal, pet adoptions soared in 2020, with one in five American households acquiring a pet . That trend now has fallen off, and it’s harder to find homes for animals. Social media also saturates the market with highly adoptable animals for breed specific adopters from local rescues and breeders.

HALT TO SPAY/NEUTER SERVICES: For months, thousands and thousands of spay and neuter

surgeries were not being performed during the pandemic, which led to a surge in unwanted animals being born — animals which are now being put out on the street, leading to more stray dogs.

INFLATION: In a September 2022 survey by the American Pet Products Association cited by The Washington Post, 14 percent of respondents who said they had fewer pets than they did three months ago said it was because they could no longer afford the pet. One of the biggest indicators that people are struggling financially to support pets is the increasing demand for HSSM’s community pet food. Also, HSSM’s low-cost Community Clinic is booked out well in advance.

HSSM makes it their mission to help keep pets and families together. They assist pet parents with vaccines, spay/neuter surgeries, microchips, wellness, pet food, proper pet shelter, and even pet deposits. Just in the past month, HSSM has assisted 75 families from having to surrender their pets to the shelter by providing them with assistance!

Despite adversity, the Humane Society of South Mississippi continues to keep the dream alive, striving to make sure every homeless pet in South MS has a loving family.

Sweakness, but Mary Cracchiolo views things a bit differently.

“I see kindness as a superpower; it is the difference we make in this world,” says Cracchiolo, director of communications for MGM Resorts International’s Beau Rivage. “It can affect change. Being patient, being kind, is truly empowering. Kindness is a beautiful gift that we can offer each other.”

Given her penchant for friendliness and courtesy, there’s little doubt that the 30year veteran of the hospitality and tourism industry is in the right profession. From her college years working for Marriott to her years at Mississippi Gulf Coast Convention & Visitors Bureau, her connection to the hospitality business runs deep.

“My father worked for Eastern Airlines, so my love for travel and tourism began at an early age,” she says. “For three decades, I have served as a regional tourism and gaming/entertainment industry resource and am passionate about educating and driving visitors to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and MGM Resorts properties.”

EMPATHETIC AND OPTIMISTIC

This month, Cracchiolo is celebrating 22 years with MGM Resorts International and Beau Rivage. In that time, she has contributed to thousands of print and broadcast stories promoting the company’s properties and the Coast as a tourism destination. She also played a significant role in communicating during times of crisis, including Hurricane Katrina, the BP oil spill, the Great Recession and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am an energetic and enthusiastic person who strives for excellence,” Cracchiolo says. “I am far from perfect, but I always try to be empathetic and optimistic.”

Judging by the results, Cracchiolo

Striving for excellence

Mary Cracchiolo finds success in service

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

doesn’t miss many targets she aims for. She graduated magna cum laude from Park University in Missouri with a bachelor’s degree in business, emphasis in marketing, and has racked up a host of honors throughout her nearly three decades on the Coast, including Southern Public Relations Federation’s Professional Achievement Award, One Coast Award Community Leader award, Mississippi Gulf Coast’s Top 10 Business Leaders Under 40 award, Mississippi’s 50 Leading Businesswomen recognition from Mississippi Business Journal, Mississippi Tourism Association Governor’s Award, Outstanding Community Leader recognition from the Mississippi Gulf Coast Blues Commission, Woman of Achievement nomination from Lighthouse Business and Professional Women, Top 40 Under 40 Women in Business recognition from The Bay Press and several others. Additionally, she’s a graduate of graduate of Leadership Mississippi, Leadership Gulf Coast, Gulf Coast Business Council’s Master’s Program, MGM’s Marketing Senior Management Development Program and the Southeast Tourism Society’s three-year Tourism Marketing College.

With such an impressive track record that speaks for itself, Cracchiolo defines success as “doing what you say you are going to do.” She advises other women professionals to have confidence in their abilities, take time to laugh, develop relationships with the people around them and never stop learning.

“Always treat people with dignity and respect, even when they don’t deserve it,” she says. “Let go of the guilt and self-doubt. Do the best you can with what you have, and be comfortable with it.”

She applies that approach to the many responsibilities of her work role, in which she spearheads national, regional and local media relations, manages community marketing sponsorships, supports community relations efforts and participates in social impact and sustainability initiatives.

But no matter how powerful they are, even the strongest superheroes need support.

“Beau Rivage is truly a family,” Cracchiolo says of her team. “There is tremendous pride, dedication and focus on customer service. We want people to come to the Coast, stay with us and leave relishing great experiences and our world-famous hospitality.”

‘GIVE THEM SOME GRACE’

The committed volunteer takes service as seriously as her job, devoting approximately 20 hours per month to community

activities. She especially enjoys working with nonprofits that focus on youth and serves on the board of the directors for the NASA-inspired Moon Tree Foundation and volunteers with the Mississippi Aviation Heritage Museum and St. Patrick Catholic High School Parent Teacher Organization.

She is also an active contributor to the American Red Cross, Public Relations Society of America, the American Heart Association. In the past, she’s served as a mentor for the Gulfport School District and member of the Gulfport Planning Commission, and she recently completed a five-year appointment on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Regional Convention & Visitors Bureau’s board of commissioners, acting as board president. She currently serves on the Mississippi Tourism Association Political Action Committee Board and the Coast Chamber of Commerce’s Military One Coast Board.

As a member of the all-female Krewe of Salacia, which financially assists the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence and the South Mississippi Child Advocacy Center, among other charities, Cracchiolo helps support local women and children in need.

“If the post-COVID world has taught us anything, it is that we have to be kind to one another and kind to ourselves,” she says. “There are a lot of angry people in the world, people struggling, people in unhappy relationships, people concerned about their futures. You really never know what people are going through, so give them some grace.”

‘GOD LOVES MARY’

Although it’s hard to believe Cracchiolo has a moment to spare, she finds time for some of her favorite activities: travel, listening to a wide variety of music and spending time with her dogs, Gretchen and Gibbs. She and her 15-year old son, Logan, are both certified scuba divers, but he is even more passionate about aviation than his water-based hobbies.

“My father, Tony, had a 50-year career in aviation and was also enthusiastic about planes,” , Cracchiolo says. “I find it a true blessing and full-circle experience to witness my father’s passions being emulated in my son completely unsolicited.”

Logan aspires to be a pilot, and as for Mary, she’s looking forward to taking a six-week sabbatical later this year, during which she plans to rest, reset, pursue other interests and return to work rejuvenated.

“I consider myself blessed,” she says. “God loves Mary.”

Photo by Brandi Stage Portraiture

Samantha Bignell

Felicia Augustine

STEPHANIE GABLE, RN, IBCLC, RLC Owner

MARANDA NYBO, IBCLC, RLC

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the heartfelt dedication of Stephanie Gable and Maranda Nybo.

Stephanie Gable, a seasoned Maternal Child Registered Nurse with 35 years of experience and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for the past 21 years, established Gulf Coast Breastfeeding Center, LLC (GCBC) in 2014. Fueled by the disheartening fact that Mississippi had the lowest exclusive breastfeeding rates in the nation, Stephanie decided to make a difference. Research proves increased breastfeeding rates lead to reduced infant mortality, improved infant and children’s health, and healthier communities. Determined to empower mothers, Stephanie immersed herself in comprehensive education, specializing in oral restrictions such as tongue and lip ties, as well as infant gut health—two common challenges that mothers encounter when feeding their babies. In her relentless pursuit to help as many infants as possible receive human milk, Stephanie has personally trained over 300 nurses in Mississippi and Louisiana in the practical application of breastfeeding care at the bedside.

Stephanie’s personal journey as a mother further fueled her commitment to empowering others. She experienced significant challenges and misinformation when striving to meet her own infant feeding goals. However, these struggles became the catalyst for creating a space where mothers can receive a thorough education, unwavering support, and the most accurate information available. Stephanie’s compassionate care ensures that no stone is left unturned when aiding mothers on their breastfeeding journey.

Joining forces with Stephanie in 2021, Maranda Nybo brings a wealth of experience as a Doula for 18 years, Childbirth Instructor for 15 years, and an IBCLC for 11 years. Maranda shares Stephanie’s vision of expanding the services provided by GCBC. Her unique and natural approach to childbirth education, lactation consulting, and doula skills has left countless families praising their positive birth experiences and subsequent breastfeeding success. Maranda’s expertise extends to inducing lactation for adoptive babies, among her many other specialties.

Maranda herself has traversed the challenges of motherhood, having breastfed her four sons, each with their own unique obstacles. She intimately understands the difficulties associated with exclusive pumping when direct breastfeeding is not feasible.

Stephanie and Maranda share an unwavering desire to give back to their communities. Through partnership with Mississippi Public Health Institute and REACH, they provide free professional lactation services to those who lack the means to pay. This invaluable support is offered through weekly free mom groups, where mothers can find assistance and solace from their peers. Additionally, a grant from the American Heart Association allowed them to establish a Micro Food Pantry. This initiative ensures that mothers in need have access to nutritious food, further reinforcing their ability to provide for their babies.

Through their dedicated service, Stephanie and Maranda empower mothers to achieve their breastfeeding goals, fostering healthier communities and brighter futures. By losing themselves in the service of others, they have found a profound sense of purpose, forever leaving an indelible mark on the lives they touch.

Gulf Coast Breastfeeding Center, LLC

6340 Kiln Delisle Road, Unit B | Pass Christian, MS 39571

228-363-0158 | www.gulfcoastbreastfeedingcenter.com

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

~ Mahatma Gandhi

Meet the Class of 2023

With more than 1,300 candidates, the decision was harder than ever – some might even say impossible. All the women who sought recognition in our most popular campaign are winners in their own right and represent the highest level of female talent the Coast has to offer.

Ultimately, the number of nominations makes this prestigious honor even more special for the 100 outstanding women we have chosen this year. We are proud to present the 100 Successful Women to Know Class of 2023.

Little People’s Christian Academy, a twenty-year-old, wellestablished preschool and childcare center, now introduces Sage Christian Academy. SCA is a fully-accredited private Christian school educating children from preschool through sixth grade. SCA offers its students an outstanding academic curriculum and a solid Biblical foundation.

SCA provides small class sizes, certified teachers, Spanish classes, Bible classes, classroom technology, frequent field trips, and a safe, loving learning environment where every child feels welcome. Children are instructed by licensed teachers who will not “teach to the test.”

The SCA school year begins August 7th. Our school day is from 8:00 am-3:15 pm each day. Before school care is offered starting at 6:30 am, and after school care is provided until 5:30 pm for additional fees.

Sage Christian Academy has limited spots for the 20232024 school year. Don’t hesitate to contact Principal Lori Gloyd-Rolison at (228) 206-1565 or visit our website at SageChristianAcademy.com for more information.

“Wisdom. Faith. Academic Excellence.”

FARABEE ROSE Owner

“Well behaved women rarely make history.”

-Marilyn Monroe

I remember being 13 and asked what I wanted to be when I was older, I responded “I wanna have my own bad ass night club”, a standard question with not a standard answer for a young lady. I have always been fascinated with night life and the experience of difference in atmosphere bring. The good times, the tunes, the lights! Eager to learn and wander, at 18 years old I moved to New Orleans to begin a bartending career at a higher pace and heavier diversity. My years bartending in restaurants, night clubs, and cocktailing in The Big Easy made me feel as if I was a black belt in the service industry. Having all male managers also lit a fire under me to pursue my dreams of my own night club. As a fearless & motivated 23 year old I returned home to the Mississippi Gulf Coast with a concept to lure people and create magical memories for locals and visitors. The Mermaid Dive Bar opened August 29, 2017, the twelfth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. A day I chose because of the significance to everyone and especially my family running a restaurant at the time feeding hundreds of survivors. This year will be my sixth year in business and I couldn’t be more thankful. My advice to all my ladies...wear the dress and wear the heels.

SARAH DUFFEY

Director of public relations and social media

The Focus Group

Sarah Duffey is a journalist-turned-marketer who creates content strategies that highlight inspiring stories for The Focus Group clients. She is a Missouri School of Journalism graduate and earned her master’s in business administration from Louisiana State University. Her experience included NPR before she joined WXXV’s inaugural news team in 2013. From 2015–2022, she developed Singing River Health System’s in-house marketing/ media team during its financial/cultural turnaround and COVID-19. She increased hospital transparency on social media and orchestrated stories featured in The New York Times, Fortune, CNN, MSNBC, GMA and more.

LAURA SESSUM Executive

director

Singing River Health System Foundation

Laura Sessum is the executive director of Singing River Health System Foundation. She serves on the boards for Let’s Go! Gulf Coast, Pascagoula River Audubon Center and Adrienne’s House. She has served for the Gulf Coast Center for Nonviolence, United Way for Jackson & George counties and Excel By 5 Ocean Springs and Pascagoula. She is a graduate of Leadership Jackson County and is a One Coast Top 10 Under 40 award winner.

REGINA FLOYD

Registered Nurse, clinical nurse Memorial Health System

Regina Floyd has been a registered nurse for 34 years, the director of nursing for over 10 years and a clinical instructor at William Carey University BSN Nursing Program for over 10 years. She was a classroom instructor at William Carey University BSN Nursing Program for one year, the neuroscience care coordinator for over three years and an RN care manager for one year. She also was the Mississippi Board of Nursing vice president for one year.

DR. KAREN HAND

Orthopaedic Surgeon Memorial Health System

Dr. Karen Hand completed medical training at the University of Mississippi Medical Center before going on to complete an orthopaedic surgery residency in Arkansas. She is fellowship trained in both orthopaedic trauma and surgery of the hand. She has lived on the Gulf Coast since 2012 and has been employed at Memorial Hospital since that time. She is active in many professional organizations, but her greatest joy is spending time with her husband and three daughters.

I have held many roles as spouse, parent, caregiver, board member, and attorney, having practiced law for twentyfive years. I initially worked as a litigator in law firms handling insurance defense; however, after my father developed Parkinson’s Disease, I became a caregiver for him and became involved in the developing “Elder Law” area, which lead me to form Coastwide Law, LLC, where I focus my legal practice on individuals, families, and small businesses in the areas of elder law, trusts, estates and successions, automobile / trucking accidents, business law, and general civil litigation defending or bringing claims on behalf of my clients. I am admitted to the Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana State Bars. I serve the

Mississippi Gulf Coast and Greater New Orleans area by maintaining offices in Gulfport and New Orleans. I have also cared for my neighborhood by serving as a former member of the Board of Directors for the Mississippi Defense Lawyers Association, Rebekah’s House (shelter for homeless families), Gulf Coast Symphony Board of Directors, past President of the Harrison County Bar Association, and I currently serve on the Vestry of St. Peter’s-By-The-Sea Episcopal Church. I enjoy helping all of my clients, but I especially enjoy helping women during a life crisis or just handling their many everyday roles. Please call me at Coastwide Law, LLC to help you chart a course to navigate life’s storms.

“I can help you turn life’s stormy waters . . . calm.”

KATHY VAN ZUTPHEN Experienced Attorney

Building A Plan You Trust – With A Team You Trust

Bank Future on your

It’s always been more than banking.

Did you know that The Peoples Bank has a department dedicated to confidentially assisting individuals with saving, investing, building wealth and planning for the future?

The highly qualified team in our Asset Management and Trust Department can be your advisers to make it easier to manage money and reach your financial goals.

We understand everyone’s goals are unique, and there is no better time to start working toward those goals than now. The earlier you start, the better. Being selective, organized and timely about financial planning helps build wealth gradually. With a few of our simple financial planning tips and expert guidance, our Asset Management and Trust Department can make it easier to manage money and reach your financial goals.

Pay yourself first.

Make a goal to save 10% of your earned income in a retirement account, whether through an employer who matches or a personal Individual Retirement Account (IRA)—or both if you can. There are two widely known Individual Retirement Accounts, which are the Traditional IRA and Roth IRA. With a Traditional IRA, eligible contributors may be able to deduct from taxable income each year. This may be an attractive option for

someone in a higher tax bracket now that may be in a lower tax bracket during retirement.

A Roth IRA, however, does not allow for deductible contributions (i.e. no upfront tax break), but in retirement, withdrawals are tax-free. This may be an attractive option for those anticipating being in a higher tax bracket in retirement. Though these are two types of IRAs, there are seven types in total. Each with its own unique contribution limits, eligibility and taxation – all of which we offer!

Build a saving mentality.

Create a budget and monitor the finances coming in and going out of your household. Look for opportunities to save and put that savings away in an interest-earning account if you can. If you build a savings mentality, it will become like second nature. Making automated monthly deposits out of your paycheck to your savings is an easy way to save without thinking about it.

Get an experienced financial advisor.

Sit down with a professional and discuss your goals. From the first meeting, our Asset Management and Trust Department’s goal is to get to know you and learn what your needs and wants are to better serve you. Let us find ways to take your savings and invest for the future with a customized, diverse portfolio.

We pride ourselves on taking a team approach. Each officer and administrator works with our investment team to develop an investment strategy that best suits your needs. We regularly communicate with you to discuss developing needs and how best to adjust the investment strategy, if necessary. As life changes, it may be necessary to adjust our approach, which is something we look at with you and decide on together.

Our friendly and knowledgeable Asset Management and Trust Department is ready to assist you with all your retirement planning, trust, financial and investment management needs. Connect with us today!

MICHELLE BEAUREGARD

Restaurant Owner

Beachside at Buoys

Growing up in a family that embodied hospitality and hosted gatherings, it was exciting for Michelle Beauregard to bring Beachside at Buoys to fruition in her hometown. From sharing dishes from her great-grandmother to developing customer-suggested dishes, she is having the best time offering a Scratch Kitchen environment and the best view of the Bay of Saint Louis. It may be a real balancing act. However, she takes pride in knowing guests leave full and with a big smile.

CATHERINE ADAMS PICKERING

Firm administrator/paralegal/FOC advocate

Holcomb Johnson

Catherine Adams Pickering is employed as a firm administrator/paralegal at a defense and chancery firm. She volunteers with Friends of Court, where she is appointed cases and advocates for veterans, vulnerable adults and children. She also owns a paralegal consulting firm. She has three fur kids with some health issues: a French bulldog with eye cancer, a French bulldog adopted with heartworms and a feline that was recently diagnosed with diabetes.

SHEILA COLLEEN REJAS

Realtor

PowerMark Properties, ERA Powered

Shelia Colleen Rejas has run a successful real estate business for 16 years. She serves residents of the Mississippi Gulf Coast through community service, youth sponsorships, mentoring and volunteering for local foundations. She is one of America’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents who strives to provide exceptional service to her clients. Her most important role is wife to a prior armed forces service member and mom to two wonderful daughters.

TARYN FLYNT

Realtor

Stars & Stripes Realty LLC

Taryn Flynt has been a Realtor since 2015 and a broker since 2020. She is a lifelong Gulf Coast resident. In addition to her career in realty, Taryn is an instructor at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. She is passionate about her home on the Coast and its image and loves helping people buy and sell in the area. Recently, she earned the REALTORS® Commitment to Excellence Endorsement and Military Relocation Professional certification from the National Association of Realtors.

RACHEL MORAN Owner

JAMIE PAROLLI Owner

Sunkissed Pools, Patios, and Outdoor Kitchens takes pride in offering a complete backyard experience with a new wave of pool design. Our comprehensive range of services encompasses everything you need to transform your outdoor space into a haven of relaxation and entertainment. From pool installation, repairs and remodels, custom patio or kitchen construction, and the addition of fire pits or water features, we ensure that every aspect of your backyard is designed to perfection.

What sets us apart is our commitment to providing exceptional customer service. We have built our pool business with the intention of giving our customers an experience that we ourselves would desire. We genuinely enjoy meeting with our customers and taking the time to listen to their backyard design plans. Understanding the significance of prompt communication, we strive to provide timely callbacks and offer flexible appointment times. We recognize that investing in a pool can be overwhelming at times, and we are here to address your questions and concerns, making the entire process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

When you choose our services, you can expect meticulous attention to detail, impeccable craftsmanship, and innovative design solutions. Our team of skilled professionals will work closely with you to bring your vision to life. From selecting the perfect pool shape and size to incorporating personalized features such as waterfalls, spa areas, or outdoor kitchens, we will create a custom solution that exceeds your expectations.

In addition to Sunkissed Pools, we are thrilled to

introduce our sister company, Gulf South Design Group. Owned and operated by our husbands, Adam and Landon, this general contracting firm specializes in site development, exterior structures, hardscape and landscape construction. Also, partial owners of Sunkissed Pools, Adam and Landon, both hold major class licenses with the Mississippi State Board of Contractors in commercial building construction and municipal and public works. The collaboration between Sunkissed Pools and Gulf South Design Group is a perfect synergy, as it combines our knowledge and experience to turn your outdoor dreams into a stunning reality.

We understand that budgetary constraints should not hinder your ability to create the backyard oasis of your dreams. That’s why we have partnered with trusted financing companies such as Hearth and HFS Financial. These financing options provide you with the flexibility to bring your vision to life without compromising on quality or design. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful outdoor space that complements their lifestyle.

At Sunkissed Pools, Patios, and Outdoor Kitchens, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional results and ensuring your utmost satisfaction. From the initial consultation to the final installation, we are committed to providing an unparalleled customer experience. Let us transform your backyard into a luxurious haven that reflects your unique style and offers endless enjoyment for years to come. Contact us today to embark on the journey to your dream outdoor retreat.

www.sunkissedpools.com 228-209-1011

Facebook: Sunkissed Pools, LLC

At Sunkissed Pools, we understand that your backyard is more than just a space— it’s an extension of your lifestyle and a sanctuary for creating lasting memories.

JENNIFER MILLER

President and CEO

Jennuwine Design

As an award-winning interior designer, Jennifer Miller strives to create spaces that are functional, authentic and unique. Her skills as an artist, as well as attention to detail and expertise in creating sophisticated designs, allow her to transition each client’s dream into a beautiful reality. Along with her love of entrepreneurship, she firmly believes that she was created to serve others. She not only holds numerous volunteer positions but also launched her own nonprofit, Mississippi Santa, in 2020.

JODI BUSCH

Broker/owner

Century 21 Busch Realty Group

Jodi Busch is from Port Charlotte, Florida, where she owned and operated a very successful copier company. She married her husband, Mark, in 2009 and moved to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 2010. She became a licensed Realtor in 2011 and opened Busch Realty Group in 2015. BRG quickly grew to be one of the largest independent brokerages in the area. Recently, BRG became an independently owned Century 21 franchise and opened a new office in Ocean Springs.

FARABEE ROSE

Owner

The Mermaid Dive Bar

Farabee Rose is a young female business owner in the heart of downtown Biloxi. The Mermaid Dive Bar has swept numerous awards for best nightclub, best bartenders and best late-night eatery. In this little casino town, she loves providing a watering hole for the locals and the service industry. The service industry keeps this town a truckin’!

KAROL BRANDT

Executive casino host

Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort

Karol Brandt’s bubbly, friendly and positive personality drives her success and the creation of long-lasting relationships with guests and team members. She provides hospitality for her guests by creating memorable experiences through her passion and willingness to go above and beyond. She’s a very active volunteer within the community and earned the 2021 Volunteer of the Year Award from Lighthouse Business & Professional Women and spearheaded the WOW Women of Wisdom Purses with a Purpose fundraiser. She is also an Amazon-published, bestselling author of “The Struggle Is Real.”

Celebrating over 75 years of family SUCCESS!

Debbie Batia, Allied ASID hails from a long family legacy of serving the Gulf Coast with quality and exquisite home design, furnishings and art. Debbie has been developing her love for design, people and service for most of her life and proudly operates D.Batia Interiors on Howard Avenue in Biloxi.

Debbie’s trademarks are a customerfocused approach that provides unique designs to each client. Working out of her design studio and showroom, Debbie offers fine quality furnishings, rugs and art for homes and offices. There is also an upscale line of gifts and accessories.

DEBBIE BATIA Allied ASID

MARIA (CHARO) VELEZ DE VILLA

Broker/owner

Sunset Mississippi Realty

Maria Velez de Villa has been a real estate professional since 2006. She is the founder and principal broker of Sunset Mississippi Realty. Her expertise in the real estate industry stems from her deep knowledge of the local market and her commitment to providing outstanding customer service. She works closely with her team of agents to deliver personalized attention and expert guidance to each client.

VANESSA TRAN

Top producer with eXp Realty/ Biloxi salon owner/ PMU artist

eXp Realty/Salon Seraphina/PMU.

Vanessa Tran

Vanessa Tran has been a salon owner in Biloxi for 13 years with 20 years of experience. She works every day of her life and is very charitable to the community. She experienced hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic when her salon closed and her husband became sick and almost died, but she persevered and worked hard. She is the top producer in real estate and continues to strive in the community.

MARIAH WELLS

VP managing partner/co-owner

SweetGrass Dispensary

Mariah Wells is from Moss Point, Mississippi. She has traveled all over the United States during her career with the Department of Homeland Security. She recently has moved back to Mississippi to venture into the medical cannabis field. She is one of the owners of SweetGrass Dispensary in Biloxi and was one of the first black female dispensary owners in the state.

SUSAN ALLEN

Owner

Susan’s Sassy Sweets

Susan Allen is on active duty, a military wife, mother and grandmother. She started creating cakes out of the homes where her family was stationed. In 2016, she moved to the Gulf Coast. She went through a program offered by the military, Boots To Business. In March 2020, she put a deposit on her first location, and one week later, the state shut down for the COVID-19 pandemic. She proceeded to open on May 6, 2020. Susan’s Sassy Sweets is now celebrating three years in business.

- Florence Nightingale

After a medical mission trip to Honduras as a teenager, Amanda Sterling, NP witnessed her first birth and knew that she wanted to care for women and children.

Amanda offers lifetime care for women of all ages – adolescent to geriatric. We never stop being women, and questions and concerns arise at any age. She specializes in maternity and gynecologic care, and is also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant helping moms and babies get their best start on the parent-childhood journey.

As a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Amanda can offer more to her patients and loves her role in connecting with patients of all ages and backgrounds.

I attribute my success to this: I never gave or took an excuse.

MOIRA ANDERSON

Business owner/director, social worker/mental health therapist

River Rock Yoga and Pilates

Moira Anderson, a certified yoga teacher, experienced registered yoga teacher, 500-hour certification (E-RYT 500) and licensed master social worker, is the owner/director of River Rock Yoga and Pilates since 2006. She also founded The Mississippi Center for Yoga and Health in Ocean Springs. She is a professionallevel Kripalu yoga teacher and has taught yoga classes and private yoga sessions since 2002. She received her master of social work degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and has been using yoga and mental health therapy in clinical mental health settings and private practice since 2010.

EVERYL-ANN ARCHIBALD

Owner

Archie’s Hot Dog Island & Catering LLC

Everyl-Ann Archibald is a full-time entrepreneur and owner of four businesses; one manufacturing, two retail and one restaurant. Her passion for entrepreneurship comes from being able to identify problems and find solutions. If she isn’t visiting her overseas business, she is commuting between her businesses in Louisiana and Gulfport. In her free time, she mentors other business owners to help grow their businesses and enjoys traveling internationally, trying new foods and enjoying diverse cultures.

FELICIA AUGUSTINE

Vice president of corporate training

Keesler Federal Credit Union

Felicia Augustine, certified credit union training professional (CCUTP), has worked in the financial industry for 38 years. In 2003, she relocated to Mississippi, where she worked at a bank for 14 years as the vice president-division operations manager. In 2016, she joined Keesler Federal Credit Union as the director of training and was recently promoted to vice president of corporate training. Her passion for training and helping others motivates her to create innovative training methods to help others learn.

NATASHA BARKLEY

Owner/operator

Serenity Springs Personal Care Home

A 22-year veteran in nursing, Natasha Barkley is the owner of Serenity Springs Personal Care Home. She is the wife of Brian Barkley and the mother of three daughters — Joscelyn, Madison and Victoria. She works as the qualityassurance nurse for Lakeview Nursing Center. Her participation in the community not only covers nursing, but also working with our youth. She is the vice president of Reclaiming Our Community, a nonprofit organization.

Sarah Duffey spends her days working with the content team she has built as Director of PR and Social Media at The Focus Group. A journalist-turned-marketer, her passion is to tell the stories of The Focus Group’s clients and share them through all channels, including their websites, social media and media outlets across the country.

It all started with a journalism degree from the University of Missouri School of Journalism in 2013 and an internship with NPR. She had lived on the Coast in high school, so when an opportunity to be a part of WXXV’s inaugural news team came up, it was an easy decision to return.

But it wasn’t until she was offered the opportunity to help develop Singing River Health System’s inhouse marketing/ media team during its financial/cultural turnaround in 2015 that she unlocked her passion for marketing. She combined her communications skills and knack for storytelling to bring people closer to the brand to much success. She also helped the health system become more transparent on social media and earned her Master’s in Business Administration from LSU in 2018.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Sarah was well-positioned to tell the health system’s stories and establish Singing River as a leader through the pandemic, communicating important messages and sharing the stories of challenges, successes and survival. She orchestrated coverage and features in The New York Times, Fortune, CNN, MSNBC, GMA and more.

Now, at The Focus Group, she finds great purpose in applying these skills to benefit multiple clients. She enjoys helping them build their brands through engagement while developing the talents of her team.

SARAH DUFFEY Director of Public Relations & Social Media

“The goal is simple: Empower the Missions of the organizations I work with and instill positive change to move mountains and communities forward.”

TRACI BARRIENTOS

Executive director

Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia

A Biloxi native, Traci Barrientos co-founded Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia in 2019, where she serves as executive director. Additionally, she co-founded Resourcing Educators and Advocates for Dyslexia (R.E.A.D. Mississippi), a statewide organization for families and educators serving populations with dyslexia. She was named a 2022 Leo Seal Innovative Educator and recently was appointed to the National Board of the A.L.T.A. Charitable Foundation. In her free time, she and her husband enjoy time with family.

SAMANTHA BIGNELL

Community development officer

Keesler Federal Credit Union

In addition to being community development officer for Keesler Federal Credit Union, Samantha Bignell serves as the secretary for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Southeast Mississippi and as a board member for the Boys and Girls Club of Jackson County. She is on the Mobile Chamber’s advisory board and a member of the Junior Auxiliary. Volunteerism is close to her heart. She dedicates her time to the Dream program for individuals with special needs and is a member of the Mobile Jaycees.

TUSHONDA

BOYD

Therapist/licensed clinical social worker

Taylor Made Counseling Services LLC

Tushonda Boyd received her social work degrees at the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg. She is the owner of Taylor Made Counseling Services LLC in Biloxi. She is a co-author of “Mind Your Mental Health: 21 Empowering Stories of Growth & Healing.” She also is a member of Infinity Apostolic Assembly Church and has been a social worker with the Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System for almost 16 years. She has been in private practice since 2018 and specializes in children.

CHARLOTTE BROWN

CEO

We Are Moss Point (WAMP)

Charlotte Brown is the CEO and owner of WAMP. She is responsible for eight successful years of the Living Legends Ball, which has honored 12 men and women, as well as two local businesses, for their lifelong achievements to their community. Her nonprofit features a YouTube channel with viral vlogs, and she was featured in the 2023 Bold, Beautiful, and Perfect Project. She also is a blogger, activist, trauma survivor, speaker, women-and-children’s advocate, Belize missionary and entrepreneur.

Dr. Catherine Bruni had always known she wanted to go into the medical profession, but she did not realize dentistry was her passion until her sophomore year of college at The University of Alabama. With Bachelor degrees in both biology and studio art, she found the perfect combination in dentistry. Now, she can’t imagine doing anything else. “I love having the opportunity to help so many different people, whether that be getting a patient out of pain, restoring their teeth so they can chew properly or giving them a brighter smile, it is such a rewarding career,” she says. Her passion for helping people was noticed in dental school, earning her the International College of Dentists Humanitarian Award during her last year, along with other accolades for her clinical skills and research.

A native of Gulfport, Dr. Bruni attributes her success to her family, friends and the mentors she has surrounded herself with over the years. “My path through the many years of school and becoming a practice owner would not have been possible without the constant support and education from my mentors, teachers, family and friends.”

Dr. Bruni practices as a general dentist and is the owner of Waveland Dental Center, where she works with Dr. Hal Jones. “I’m so grateful for Dr. Jones. He is the most compassionate, caring person whom I am blessed to have as a mentor. Without him, I would not have had to opportunity to continue his legacy with Waveland Dental Center.”

I am passionate about providing excellent patient care to help people look and feel their best.

RACHEAL BUTLER

Director of pharmacy services

Coastal Family Health Center

Racheal Butler, doctor of pharmacy, is the director of pharmacy services at Coastal Family Health Center and oversees all pharmacy operations for four pharmacies. Her undergrad degree in biological sciences is from the University of Southern Mississippi, and she received her doctor of pharmacy degree from Xavier University College of Pharmacy. She serves on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber Leadership Gulf Coast Board, Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and is pharmacy preceptor for William Carey University. She is a wife to Dennis and a mother of two.

NITA CHASE

CEO

ChaseNGod Enterprises

As a poet and orator, Nita Chase delivers messages of hope, love and laughter. She’s a servant of God, a wife and a mother. She grew up in Clarksdale, Mississippi. Her writing took form when she was a child, and she came to realize her gift. She is an attorney, veteran and family master judge and serves her church and community. In all she does, there is one common thread: passion

AIMEE CLUTE Minister/co-pastor

Aimee Clute Ministries

As a best-selling author, national recording artist, certified chaplain holding a doctorate in divinity and appointed ambassador-at-large, Aimee Clute, Ph. D., is passionate about reaching the masses for His sake in song and word.

FELISHA COLEMAN Program director

Singing River Services

Felisha Coleman was born and raised in Moss Point. Her highest level of education is a master’s degree. She has two beautiful children, Melvisha and Jeremiah, and she serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at Singing River Industries as program director. She also has a business, Mac Attack Transportation & Construction. Her hobbies are singing, traveling and working with the youth. Her motto: Love is the key; faith unlocks the door.

“Beauty knows no pain nor budget.”

Antonian Salon is a second-generation, family-owned business that is currently celebrating 27 years.

Growing up in the salon, Ann Marie Walley was exposed to the beauty industry at an early age and shares her passion for people and making the world a more beautiful place with her highly trained staff.

Walley and her team continue her family’s tradition through their passion for the beauty industry. The Antonian Salon hair team include Kiowa Walley (not pictured), Jordan Hughes, Amber Barton, Emily Banks, and Isabella Brewer. Angela Heise, the resident nail tech, and Jessica McDade, the in-house

spray tan specialist from Bronze Secret, round out Antonian Salon’s beauty services. Each team member takes pride in learning new advanced techniques and continuing education through Antonian Academy.

Antonian Salon is a modern, clean space that creates a unique and friendly experience, while offering the Gulf Coast’s first premier Goldwell Color Bar. Antonian Salon offers a wide assortment of services in hair, skin, and nails and is known as the #1 Glam Squad on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Experience the best and book your next appointment with one of the extremely talented stylists at Antonian Salon!

KAREN COLEMAN

Owner

Flowers by Karen

Karen Coleman has had the florist for 36 years in Ocean Springs. She always has supported several groups, nursing homes, nonprofit organizations and individuals. She believes in giving back to the community. Flowers by Karen recently was voted the Best Wedding Florist on the Gulf Coast. The shop is open six days a week and available on Sundays for funerals. She never asks her employees to do anything that she would not do.

LATONA COLEMAN

Owner

Latona’s Magic Touch LLC

Latona Coleman is an entrepreneur, beauty professional and artist in jazz and popular music. She has been a business owner for over 25 years in Jackson County. She is owner of an award-winning salon, Latona’s Magic Touch LLC, and is a corporate philanthropist. She volunteers as a peer evaluator in higher education, is a lead vocalist of her band and producer of the 90s Review Concert. She performs at corporate events and occasions. She is an ally for worthy causes.

ROXY CONDREY

Owner

Rain Residential/Rain Travel Collection

Roxy Condrey is the owner and managing broker of Rain Residential, a boutique real estate company. She and Ted, her husband, are highly invested in the local community through multiple developments and rental properties. They are the owners of The Inn at Ocean Springs, The Roost, The Beatnik and Gulf Hills Resort & Hotel. Under Rain’s management, these hotels have received multiple awards. She has been an integral part of the brand, design and management.

CASSANDRA CONNER

Vice president, Tradition Campus, professor of education

William Carey University

Born and raised on the Gulf Coast, Cassandra Connor, Ph. D.., is married with two grown children. She earned a bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctorate in education at the University of Southern Mississippi. During her career in the public school system, she served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and central office administrator. After retirement, she started at William Carey University as an assistant professor of education and has served as the academic dean, administrative dean and now vice president of the Tradition Campus.

I became a realtor after I moved to the Mississippi Gulf coast with my children from Sacramento California in 2004. After being involved in a few real estate transactions, Real estate became my profession to make a living as a single parent. I thought the flexibility of working my own hours and at my own pace wouldn’t be strenuous or stressful. Ha, boy was I wrong! I learned quickly a successful Realtor works their client’s hours. My career of choice is fast paced and there is always something new to learn. There is nothing in the world that I love or would want to do more!

In 2020 I decided it was time to open my own Real Estate brokerage and founded Golden Key Realty. I am very active in my community. I am the Chairwoman for the NAACP Economic Development Committee, a member of the Professional standards Committee for the Mississippi Association of Realtors, and a licensed Mediator with the National Association of Realtors.

I am grateful that my 15-year career as a Real Estate professional has helped me obtain meaningful relationships in the community. Now, I have my own team of Real estate agents that I am mentoring so they can have a Successful Career in Real Estate! Being a boutique brokerage, we are able to give our clients the one-onone professional guidance they deserve. If you are looking for knowledgeable and experienced agents to navigate your real estate transaction the Golden Key Realty team would love to help you!

TAMMY SAMBRANO Broker/Owner

I believe the secret to being successful is pushing yourself to achieve your goals daily, even on the days when you don’t have the motivation. Let’s be honest, a lot of days we may lose track of why we even started this journey. Stay focused!

MAVIS A. CREAGH

Executive director/owner

R3SM, Inc. (Recover, Rebuild, Restore Southeast Mississippi), Mavis A. Creagh

Consulting

Mavis A. Creagh is an executive director, bestselling author, speaker, consultant, mental health proponent, community champion, women’s advocate, entrepreneurial strategist, columnist and online show host. She currently serves as the executive director of R3SM, Inc., (Recover, Rebuild, and Restore Southeast Mississippi) a nonprofit founded following Hurricane Katrina. Recently, she established Mavis A. Creagh Consulting LLC and We Women Ministries. One of her proudest accomplishments is being the mother to her amazing teenage son, Jordan, who is a trained chef and basketball enthusiast.

BERNADETTE CULLEN

Retired registered nurse

Community volunteer

After retiring from her nursing career, Bernadette Cullen wanted to give back to her community. She enjoyed serving the Hancock County Library Board as a member and vice chair. She has served as board secretary for The Arts Hancock County for the last five years and remains a volunteer. She’s a member of Keep Waveland Beautiful and Bay St. Louis Rotary. She also is the co-chair for Hancock Relay for Life and serves as board chairperson for the Waveland Ground Zero Museum.

REGINA CUNNINGHAM

Franchise owner/CEO

Ez Tax Refund$

Regina P. Cunningham is the chief executive officer of C-Ham Construction, A&E Apartments and Ez Tax Refund$. As a multi-degreed woman of business, she wears many hats while always mastering her engineering management, estate dealer and tax-specialist duties. She also is a member of the Worldwide Women’s Association. As a philanthropist, her love for the future generation is demonstrated through selfless contributions, giveaways and scholarships.

BRANDY DYESS

Realtor, special education case manager, small business owner

Hoda & Associates Real Estate Co. and Harrison Country School District

Brandy Dyess has been a special educator for 15 years and is currently a district case manager on the Coast. In addition to supporting children with disabilities, their families, and their teachers, she is a broker associate with Hoda & Associates Real Estate Company. She also owns two nutrition clubs, one on each side of the Coast. Helping others is her passion, whether in schools, real estate or serving up customers’ favorite loaded teas.

I have resided on the Gulf Coast, my entire life. I attended Ocean Springs High School, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and Mississippi State University. I am the Firm Administrator/Paralegal for Holcomb Johnson, PLLC. I have been in my capacity at Holcomb Johnson, PLLC, since 2021. We specialize in Criminal Defense, Family Law, and Personal Injury. I have been in the legal field for approximately 13 years. Throughout my legal career, I have assisted in Criminal, Chancery, and Civil Trials. I was formerly a medical social worker, in which I assisted residents in Long Term Care Facilities. In my spare time, I volunteer as a Court Appointed Advocate for Friends of Court. In my role as a Friends of Court Advocate,

CATHERINE ADAMS PICKERING Firm Administrator/Paralegal

I am the voice for Children going through divorce and/ or custody, Vulnerable Adults, and Veterans. I have been volunteering with Friends of Court for over a year.

I have also been a volunteer Girl Scout Troop Leader and Red Cross Volunteer. I also run a successful Scentsy business and have a team of 6. When I am not working and volunteering with Friends of Court, I spend time with my husband of 2 years. We have 4 rescues: 2 French bulldogs, Morkie, and cat. One of my French bulldogs has Eye cancer and the other is undergoing heart worm treatment. We also have a cat with diabetes.

2218 17th Street | Gulfport, MS 39501 228-206-5843 | HolcombJohnson.com

“Every day holds the possibility of a miracle.”

~ Elizabeth David

RENATA FLOT-PATTERSON

Owner

Gulf Coast Destination Management Company

Renata Flot-Patterson is a Gulf Coast professional who wears many hats. She is the owner of Gulf Coast Destination Management Company, which is a destination and eventmanagement company that services locals and visitors of the Gulf Coast in the tourism and convention arena. She also is the owner of Big Easy Entertainment, an out-of-state event company, and the founder of the Keeping Keli Foundation, which supports victims and survivors of domestic violence.

STEPHANIE GABLE

Registered nurse, international board-certified lactation consultant

Gulf Coast Breastfeeding Center LLC

Stephanie Gable has been a maternal-child nurse for 35 years and has spent 21 years helping mothers of the Mississippi Gulf Coast feed their babies. She has trained over 200 Gulf Coast maternal-child nurses. She works with Mississippi Public Health Institute in a nonprofit role and helps underserved women of color get free professional lactation services. She has a food pantry to help these moms feed their families as well as their babies. She loves moms and babies!

MANDY GUNTER

Mathematics coach/third-grade teacher

Gulfport School District

Mandy Gunter has been an educator for more than 32 years and has spent the last 20 years teaching in the Gulfport School District. She currently teaches third grade and serves as the mathematics coach at Bayou View Elementary. In 2020, she was awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) in Washington, D.C. She strives to be the teacher that every child remembers.

EMILY HUGHES-FORET Director

of operations

The National Diabetes & Obesity Research Institute

Emily Hughes-Foret, Ph. D and MBA, was born and raised on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She has been working in healthcare and research for chronic diseases, such as diabetes, for over 15 years. She recently completed William Carey University’s doctoral program for health administration and education. She has committed herself to making an impact on access to things like healthcare, health education, healthy foods and physical activity. Her biggest successes are her two young boys.

Shelia Colleen Rejas, a seasoned REALTOR® with an impressive 16-year track record, has made a significant impact on the real estate industry through her unwavering commitment to client satisfaction and community involvement. Her journey in real estate began as she selflessly aided law enforcement officers and military families in transitioning to new communities, and she has since become an integral part of the Mississippi Gulf Coast community.

As a full-time REALTOR® working in PowerMark Properties Luxury Homes Division and serving as the Director of Relocation, Shelia consistently exemplifies the qualities that set her apart. Her dedication to her clients is evident through the numerous awards she has received, including the prestigious 360 Diamond Elite Customer Service Award, Sapphire Medallion, Diamond Medallion, and Residential Platinum Award. Since 2021, Shelia has been recognized as one of America’s Top 100 Real Estate Agents, a testament to her exceptional skills and expertise.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Shelia is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She has actively volunteered and supported various local outreach programs,

including Together We Rise, The R.O.C.K Foundation, Real Men Wear Pink, and The Alzheimer’s Association.

Shelia’s involvement in these organizations showcases her passion for making a positive difference in the lives of others.

In addition to her community work, Shelia takes pride in mentoring new agents at her office, sharing her knowledge and experiences to help them succeed in the competitive real estate industry. Shelia firmly believes in fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, recognizing that by helping, the entire team can achieve greater success.

Behind Shelia’s professional achievements lies a loving family. She is blessed with two wonderful daughters and has been happily married to her supportive husband for over 30 years. Shelia’s strong family foundation provides her with the motivation and support necessary to excel in her career and community endeavors.

Shelia Rejas is more than a successful REALTOR®—she is a role model, a mentor, and a dedicated advocate for her clients and community. Through her exceptional work ethic, commitment to excellence, and passion for helping others, Shelia continues to shape the real estate industry and inspire those around her.

cell: 228-243-5486 | office: 228-269- 7282

www.sheliassellingsunsets.com | sheliassellingsunsets@gmail.com

Success doesn’t come to you; you go after it with passion, perseverance, and a fierce determination.

SHELIA COLLEEN REJAS REALTOR®

JOYCE JOHNSON

President

D'Iberville/St. Martin Chamber of Commerce

Joyce Johnson is serving a second term as president of the D’Iberville/St. Martin Chamber of Commerce in 2023. She was awarded the Above & Beyond and Sales Agent of the Year 2022 awards by Adams Homes. For her outstanding volunteer service in the community, she was awarded the Mary Lou Buchanan Award by Harrison County. She is married to Chauncey and has three beautiful children. She loves traveling, interior decorating and enjoying local cuisine.

DR. VALERIE JOINER

Owner/psychotherapist

Magnolia Bloom Counseling LLC

Dr. Valerie Joiner is a psychotherapist specializing in trauma and mental health therapy. She is employed at the Biloxi VA Hospital and is an adjunct instructor at the University of Southern Mississippi. She is also the owner of Magnolia Bloom Counseling and has published research on trauma and written books to educate children on mental wellness. She loves working with children and has devoted most of her career to projects that involve empowering and educating young women.

CAROLYN JONES

Owner, membership chairman

Red Door Saloon, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc.

Carolyn Jones is the owner of The Red Door Salon in Gautier. But more than that, she is a philanthropist who has awarded students with over $21,000 in scholarship money with her foundation, The Carolyn Hall Jones Scholarship Foundation. She holds a master’s in business and is pursuing a doctoral degree in business. She is very active in her sorority and has won numerous awards for her philanthropic efforts and service, including the 2023 Servant Leader Award.

WHITNEY LANDRUM

Business owner and elementary teacher

Bay Pool Co. and Waveland Elementary

Whitney Landrum is a seven-year business owner of Bay Pool Company and an elementary school teacher of 10 years to some incredible first-grade students at Waveland Elementary. She is the wife of Adam Landrum and has three amazing daughters, Addalyn Taylor, Harbor Grace and Whitynn Gray. She recently was named Teacher of the Year for Waveland Elementary. She successfully juggles teaching young children, raising her own children and running a business.

The Dynamic Duo!

The Biloxi Bay Area Chamber of Commerce (aka The Fun Chamber) office consists of two high-energy, get-it-done, make-it-happen power women. But they are so down to earth and caring, they’ll easily become your partner in helping you succeed. Their commitment to their members is unfounded.

Tina is very picky about where she shops and dines. High priority for chamber members. Most days, she is a walking billboard for her favorite chamber member boutiques. If she is looking at a business that is not a current member, they’ll get a pitch about the benefits of membership and a business card for follow-up.

Dawn hit the ground running on her first day and is doing a great job maintaining the membership database (almost 900 members strong!), mastering social media, attending members’ events, and keeping the office running smoothly. She also stays busy answering questions from visitors who call or come by the chamber office at the Biloxi Visitors Center.

TINA ROSS-SEAMANS

Executive Director

(Celebrating 16 ½ years!)

DAWN ROSS

Executive Assistant to the Director (4 months but works like she’s been on the job just as long as Tina!)

JOCELYN LANE

CEO

Premier Professional Counseling Services

Jocelyn Lane is the owner of Premier Professional Counseling Services LLC. The mission of Premier Counseling is to see the client as a whole person and not the circumstance they are currently facing. She holds a bachelor’s and master’s in social work from Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi. She also has a master’s in public health and healthcare administration from the University of Southern Mississippi.

RENEE LORANGER

Owner

Sugar Pop Baking Co.

Renee Loranger moved to Mississippi Gulf Coast in 2000 from California, where she was a bakery manager and cake designer. She has always wanted to open her own bakery here on the Coast. She was on the Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship in 2020 and went to the finals. She was invited back in 2021 and won. She opened Sugar Pop Baking Co. that year and has worked every day since to ensure its success.

KIMBERLIE MABRY

FNP-C (family nurse practitioner certified by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners)

Avid Health Services

Kimberlie Mabry has served the Gulf Coast for 22 years, saving lives as a registered emergency room nurse at Singing River, Garden Park, Memorial of Gulfport and across Louisiana. She is a preceptor and has provided a multitude of nursing training. After becoming an FNP-C in 2021, she created her own business. Avid Health Services, which provides comprehensive patient care and an array of services to come. She is known as the “diva” in nursing on the Gulf Coast.

IRENE MAGEE

Executive pastor

Empowerment Ministries Church Center

Irene Magee is a published author, retired teacher, Realtor with Century 21 Busch Realty Group and owner of Magee Financial Services and Nicey Icey Snowballs. She has been married to Dr. Gregg S. Magee Sr. for 23 years. They have five children and one son in love. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Southern Mississippi. She is also the executive pastor of Empowerment Ministries Christian Center, where she loves to serve alongside her husband.

Dr. Alisha Ware, OB-GYN is glad to be part of a woman’s life at a very joyful time and help ensure the best outcome for mom and baby. She takes the responsibility seriously and finds so much pleasure in watching her patients become parents.

Dr. Ware enjoys taking care of women and creating a place where they can ask the uncomfortable questions. She attributes the comfort level she establishes with her patients to her approachable demeanor and genuine interest in her patients.

Ware is also just like every other working mom — supporting her husband and three kids in their activities and trying to decide what’s for dinner when she gets off work. She hopes that she instills in her children the idea that it is important to put others first and to work for something bigger than yourself.

What keeps me going is knowing that the patient needs you, needs you to handle her situation with empathy and give her the confidence that she is going to be OK.

APRIL MARTIN Manager 3 Information Systems

Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII)

April Martin is the service delivery manager at HII in Pascagoula. She’s responsible for ensuring timely and quality delivery of IT services and products. She has worked at HII for 21 years as an engineer and as a manager in the planning and program office. She holds a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering and a master of science in industrial engineering. She also is the co-owner of LA Events, a business that specializes in event logistics, design and experiences.

TERSHARA MATTHEWS Senior vice president

WSP USA

Tershara Matthews recently has been hired by WSP USA as a U.S. offshore wind policy lead for earth and environment. WSP USA is the nation’s leading engineering, environment and professional services consultancy firm. She is developing a variety of offshore energy and other environmental projects with an emphasis on offshore wind and energy transition. She will serve as a leader for offshore wind initiatives in the Gulf Coast, the nation and the world.

LATASHA MCCULLAR Vice president of operations

Blacklidge Emulsions

Latasha McCullar, a retired Army acquisition officer after 20 years of service, serves as vice president of operations for Blacklidge Emulsions. Following the loss of her son in 2018, she founded the Josten J. Day Foundation, a nonprofit raising awareness to decrease the loss of lives due to reckless driving. She has a passion for children and serves on several organization boards, including the Junior Auxiliary, Boys & Girls Club and the Mississippi Early Childhood Investment Council.

LEANNA MORGAN SAUCIER Workforce development manager Memorial Health System

LeAnna Morgan Saucier is the workforce development manager at Memorial Health System, where she loves working with local schools and colleges and assisting applicants with career growth. She owns Brand & Elevate–The Marketing Boutique, a consulting company for women entrepreneurs. She created Breakfast at Tiffany’s, a fun event she started in 2020 that gives back to local nonprofit organizations that support women and children’s initiatives. She also is the 2023 co-chair of Lighthouse Business and Professional Women.

Meet Joyce Johnson, an exceptional individual residing in the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast, specifically in Biloxi. With a career spanning over seven years, she has made remarkable contributions as a Realtor, dedicating her expertise to the housing market.

For the past three years, Joyce has been an invaluable asset to Adams Homes New Construction Homes, utilizing her skills to enhance the team’s success. However, her achievements extend beyond her professional endeavors. She has made significant strides in her community, notably as the first African American to serve on the Board of the D’Iberville/St. Martin Chamber of Commerce. Moreover, she holds the esteemed position of being the first African American President of the Chamber, where she skillfully directs and oversees various crucial activities, including monthly business meetings, ribbon cutting ceremonies, after-hours events, and grand openings.

Passionate about creating memorable experiences, Joyce utilizes her talents as a party planner and decorator for weddings and parties. Furthermore, she and her husband selflessly served as foster parents, providing care and support to children in need. Through her volunteer work with food

deliveries and food banks, she has made a significant impact on addressing hunger and assisting individuals in her community.

With a heart for mentoring, she has dedicated over 15 years to guiding and inspiring others. She serves as a mentor for both the youth and general community, making a positive difference in the lives of those she encounters.

Joyce finds joy in spending quality time with loved ones. Her home is a hub of warmth and hospitality, where holiday’s become cherished moments filled with family, food, and engaging conversations.

Balancing her responsibilities with grace, Joyce takes immense pride in being a devoted spouse and nurturing mother to her three children. In her leisure time, they indulge in travel, gourmet cooking, reading, and gardening—activities that bring them both relaxation and fulfillment.

Through her unwavering dedication to her profession, community, and family, Joyce Johnson embodies the values of leadership, compassion, and generosity. Her achievements and contributions have left an indelible mark in the community she loves.

I believe in myself and my ability to succeed, and you should too.

JOYCE JOHNSON President of The D’Iberville/ St. Martin Chamber of Commerce

HEATHER MUELLER

Director of finance

South Mississippi Housing Authority

Heather Mueller serves as the director of finance for a regional housing authority that serves over 10,000 people in Mississippi’s lower 14 counties. She is also treasurer of the nonprofit South Mississippi Housing & Development Corporation. She has 13 years of housing experience, holds an MBA in accounting and is a certified fraud examiner. She manages an annual budget of around $100 million. She has helped streamline the agency’s processes over the last year.

HUONG NGUYEN

Baker/community leader

Huongry Cookies

Huong Nguyen is the owner and baker of Huongry Cookies, an at-home business in D’Iberville. At 32 years old, she’s been baking decorated sugar cookies for the past four years. She was featured on Food Network’s Christmas Cookie Challenge and in The Gulf Coast Scout Guide: Volume

1. Prior to baking, she was a community leader for 17 years, leading a women’s empowerment group and initiating the first women’s flag football tournament in New Orleans.

JENNIFER NICAUD

Judge

Mississippi Workers Compensation Commission

Judge Jennifer Nicaud works for the Mississippi Workers’ Compensation Commission. She was an adjunct professor for the Mississippi College School of Law. She served two terms as commissioner for the Pass Christian Historic Preservation Commission and as chairwoman for the Mississippi Bar Professional Responsibility Committee. She also served as a board member of the National Association Workers’ Compensation Judiciary, Friends of Children’s Hospital, Kid’s Chance and more. She consults for Nicaud Food Group and is an ambassador of the Alliance of Women in Workers’ Compensation.

DR. ANNA PAVLOV

Physician

Aesthetic Surgery Center

Anna Pavlov is a board-certified plastic surgeon who recently joined the Aesthetic Surgery Center in Gulfport. She is the first and only female plastic surgeon in South Mississippi. She specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and body. She grew up in Ocean Springs and is thrilled to be back on the Coast.

No one can make you feel inferior unless you give them consent.

- Eleanor Roosevelt

ANGEL GREER Chief Executive Officer

As a first-time mother, Ms. Greer had an epiphany that came from the exemplary nursing care she received during the birth of her son in 1991. She realized she wanted to spend the remainder of her life making others feel valued and respected regardless of their life circumstances. Ms. Greer quickly began her educational journey one year later at MS Gulf Coast Community College to pursue a career in nursing. Throughout these years, Ms. Greer worked in various nursing roles in long term care, private duty, and corrections. Ms. Greer’s motto was “where there is a will there is a way.”

In 2000, Ms. Greer was hired to open and operate five schoolbased clinics at Greene Area Medical Extenders which was managed by Coastal Family Health Center. In 2004, Ms. Greer discovered her passion and calling when reviewing the Coastal’s mission, vision, and values. Over the next several years, Ms. Greer assumed progressive leadership roles in nursing and operations. In 2010, Ms. Greer was selected as Chief Executive Officer. Early in her tenure, Ms. Greer created an executive team and restructured the organization to improve accountability, service, and quality. Ms. Greer oversees 300+ employees who serve more than 36,000 patients annually throughout 37 locations across 6 counties in south Mississippi. Throughout the many trials and triumphs of her career, Ms. Greer has relied on the truth found in Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through

Christ who strengthens me.” To her, leadership requires one to be of humble service to others.

Ms. Greer serves as the President of the MS Health SafeNet Health Center Controlled Network and President of the Primary Care Coalition of Mississippi. Ms. Greer serves as Treasurer of the Community Health Center Association of MS and Secretary of Program Believe. Formerly, Angel served as Co-Chair of the East Biloxi Community Collaborative and is a graduate of the Class of 2018 Gulf Coast Leadership. Angel has served on various advisory councils including the MS Gulf Coast Community College Nursing Program, USM School of Social Work, William Carey University School of Nursing, Diabetes Coalition of MS, and the National Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute.

Angel received her BSN in 1999 and MPH 2010, both from USM. As a lifelong learner, Ms. Greer attended the Health Care Executive Program at UCLA John Anderson Graduate School of Management and the Management Academy for Public Health at UNC at Chapel Hill. Ms. Greer completed the Adaptive Leadership Academy hosted by NACCHOS. She teaches adult Sunday School, oversees the women’s ministry, and serves as planner/coordinator for various church events. Angel is the proud wife of Scott for 32 years, mother of two sons and one daughter-in-law, and granny of 4 grandchildren.

SHIELA PERRY

Owner

Cheer Zone Athletics

Shiela Perry opened Cheer Zone in 2008 after being turned down by two banks. She was determined to reach her goal of opening a cheer gym. She has coached thousands of youths along the Mississippi Gulf Coast and continues to volunteer her efforts in the local community at schools, organizations and little leagues. She has four locations and teaches roughly 500 students a week. Her goal is to create a safe and positive environment for youth.

AMANDA PIDGEON

Teacher

Hancock High School

Now in her 16th year of teaching English at Hancock High School, Amanda Pidgeon has taught countless students the skills they need to graduate and find collegiate or workforce success. At HHS, she sponsors Beta Club and was elected Mississippi’s State Beta sponsor. She also serves as former president and is an active member of the Junior Auxiliary of Hancock County, where she has chaired and created service projects like The Big Read and Share the Warmth.

DUSTI PISARICH

Vice president of human resources

Hancock Whitney

Dusti Pisarich is a human resources professional and leader on the Mississippi Gulf Coast’s workforce and community. With 20 years at Hancock Whitney Bank, she is the current vice president of HR. She was the past president of the Gulf Coast HR Association and a board member of the National Association of Junior Auxiliaries. She is a life member and the past president of the Junior Auxiliary of Biloxi-Ocean Springs. She has a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in human capital development from USM. She is a proud mom, daughter, sister and friend.

SANDRA REED

Superintendent

Bay-Waveland School District

Sandra Reed has worked as an educator for over 30 years and has served as a principal at all levels in several school districts. She is currently the superintendent of Bay-Waveland School District, an A-rated school district. In the four years she has led the district, the district’s state ranking rose from number 69 to number 19. It is her philosophy that her primary role is to positively impact the lives of her students.

Sherri Paul Thigpen was 13 when her dad was transferred to Stennis and the family moved from California to Picayune, MS. Sherri’s mother loved baking so when a small bakery came up for sale Shirley Paul bought it. She leased an 800 square foot space, and set up Paul’s Pastry Shop with two wooden tables, a mixer and a single baking oven. With the help of Sherri’s daughter and partner, Laci Brunson, and husband, Clay, Paul’s Pastry Shop has expanded to 11,000 square feet. And 21 of its 26 employees are women!

“We strive to make all our customers’ celebrations sweet,” said Sherri. “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our employees Paul’s was selected as one of Entrepreneur Magazine’s 51 Success Stories and Southern Living Magazine’s Best King Cake Champion.” Sherri is humbled, blessed and thankful for the amazing employees and customers who have supported the business for 53 years. Two of her grandchildren now work in the business, ensuring that Shirley Paul’s legacy will continue for many years to come.

Thank you for your commitment to our mission of Improving Health and Saving Lives in this community every day.

We are proud to have you on the Singing River team.

Kelly Devine Outreach and Events Manager

Laura Sessum Executive Director, Singing River Health System Foundation

Melissa Schnoor Community Relations Director

SHERRI PAUL THIGPEN (left)

LACI THIGPEN BRUNSON (right) Co-Owners

BROOKE RESTER

Owner

Dolce Bakeshop

Brooke Rester started baking out of her home in 2006, and her hobby quickly grew into an obsession. In 2017, she opened her first storefront called Dolce Bakeshop in downtown Long Beach. She has since opened Gather, an event venue where she hosts baking classes, summer camps and birthday parties. She is also in the process of opening her second storefront in downtown Bay St. Louis.

JULIA REYES

Muralist/visual artist

Reyes Studios

Julia Reyes is a Biloxi native and has been working in the arts professionally for over 15 years. She has served as an outreach coordinator, creative director and owned/ operated a gallery in downtown Biloxi while maintaining an active career as a visual artist. In recent years, she has been focusing on working with organizations, businesses and individuals to create large-scale murals and help develop visions for creative environments around the U.S. and beyond.

SARAH RIMES

Attorney

Delta Title & Escrow Co.

Sarah Rimes lives in Ocean Springs with her husband and two children. She has practiced law for 19 years and primarily practices real estate and transactional law. She started her title company in 2006. She has served on many boards across the Gulf Coast, volunteering both her time and legal services. In addition, she has volunteered for countless activities involving her children and their schools.

MELISSA SAUCIER

Director of public relations

Hancock County School District

Melissa Saucier is the director of public relations for Hancock County School District. She holds a specialist in educational leadership and is pursuing a doctorate in educational leadership from William Carey University. She is actively involved in many service-oriented organizations, including Hancock County Chamber Education Committee, Rotary Club and United Way. She has been recognized by the National Association of Federal Education Program Administrators and received a state leadership award for Mississippi in 2021.

Reality is the perception of your current situation. If you believe it to be great- IT IS!

In 2023 Holly has found a level of success like never before. With a thriving Brokerage, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Properties and Co-owning 4 Dickey’s Barbecue Pit locations spanning from Mississippi to Florida with her husband, she is thriving and enjoying life. Her philosophy is you only fail if you don’t try. As we can see, being an entrepreneur suits her well. She thrives on the high demands placed on a business owner and survives on the love and support of her family. Holly serves on several boards and gives of her time freely. She speaks to peer groups on the importance of confidence and having your sphere of influence to guide you towards success. It’s safe to say, keep an eye on her in 2024.

Mariah Wells is a Moss Point native. She graduated in 2011 and went on to obtain her Bachelors from Jackson State University in Speech Communication. Mariah started her career in Logistics for the Department of Homeland Security. Her position led her to travel all of the United States assisting in nation disasters. Mariah was part of the Nation Vaccination Coordination Cell that sourced volunteer physicians during the pandemic. Since then, Mariah has served in Ministry and decided to get back to her roots. Mariah is now co-owner and VP Managing Partner for SweetGrass. Her passion to serve continues to grow. Mariah is the host of So Me Podcast and Public Speaker. Building SweetGrass is allowing Mariah the opportunity to bring all of her skills and expertise to help the company flourish.

MARIAH WELLS Owner / VP Managing Partner at SweetGrass

“I truly believe God works all things together for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose.”

KATE SPEAR

President

Specialty Contractors & Associates Inc.

Kate Spear is president of Specialty Contractors and broker of Coast Couple Realty. She serves on the St. James School Board, is vice president of NAWIC Mississippi Coast, is a port commissioner and previously chaired St. Vincent de Paul Pharmacy and Coast Young Professionals. She is a graduate of Wake Forest, Ole Miss Law, Leadership Gulf Coast and Leadership Mississippi. She received One Coast’s Top 10 Under 40 award. She and her husband, Chris, are proud parents of Louisa and Scott.

KATHY SPRINGER

CEO

United Way of South Mississippi

Kathy Springer is the chief executive officer at United Way of South Mississippi. Prior to joining UWSM, she was the assistant hospital administrator at Merit Health Biloxi. She served UWSM as a loaned executive, campaign division chair, board member and Harrison County campaign chairman. She is a past president of the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce and a past president of the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce. She also is a breast cancer survivor.

AMANDA STERLING

Women’s health nurse practitioner

Women’s Clinic P.A.

Amanda Sterling is a lifelong resident of Gulfport and has worked in healthcare for 20 years. She began as a certified nursing assistant, then attended the University of Southern Mississippi, where she became a registered nurse in 2005. She found her niche in maternal-child nursing and has served thousands of women and children over the years. She still wanted to do more, so she went back to school to become a women’s health nurse practitioner in 2021. She continues to serve her community with compassion.

LYNN WADE

Broker owner

Weichert Realtors - Gulf Properties

Lynn Wade is a five-time Top Realtor in the state of Mississippi, past president of the Board of Realtors, past Realtor of the Year and the Top Producer in her Realtor board for 11 years. She’s been a franchise owner for 1.5 years and recently was named the Premier Agency due to being in the Top 30 Companies in 2022. She is a lifelong coastee and was on the board for Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. She has served on several committees and fundraising organizations and as a past chair of the Mississippi Association of Realtors.

CARRIE TAYLOR Owner

“It Takes a Village to Raise a Child.”

Hancock County Family Treatment Court, a federally funded grant by OJJDP, is a program for parents with active Child Protective Services cases, who have been diagnosed with a substance abuse disorder that interferes with their ability to safely parent.

This program, co-located with the court, provides all necessary resources to assist in recovery, including medical assessments and a variety of intervention services. Through a partnership with Tulane University School of Medicine, parents receive top-notch, personalized care to confront their addiction. The program focuses on assisting parents in achieving sobriety with the ultimate goal of reunification with their children.

Leading with compassion, Sarah Johnson, Court Coordinator, Cecile Tebo LCSW, Recovery Specialist, and April Johnson, Peer Support Specialist, are the core to this very successful program. Since its inception in 2021, the program has benefited over 100 individuals. The Honorable S. Trent Favre presides over Hancock County Family Treatment Court.

Golden Marketing was developed out of the desire to create an experience for clients to know their needs are being heard and business goals are being met with a genuine and thoughtful approach.

Having been on both the client and agency side of the business, I understand what it takes to make the relationship successful. Honesty, authenticity, and communication are just a few components that make the relationship thrive. Every marketing experience does not have to be intimidating and overwhelming. It was important for me to provide a service that meets the client where they are and assist with those needs.

With more than twenty years experience in the marketing field, my career spans across a variety of industries including professional sports, gaming, agency work, and healthcare. Stay Golden!

SARAH JOHNSON Court Coordinator

CECILE TEBO, LCSW Recovery Specialist

APRIL JOHNSON Peer Support Specialist

“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it.”

~ Paulo Coelho

“Expect Great Things From God; Attempt Great Things For God”

Making College Affordable with low tuition, high scholarships, and free textbooks for undergraduates, William Carey University is making it easier than ever to afford the higher education you deserve. As the cost of college rises across the nation, we decided it was time to solve the problem, and this is just the beginning!

Find out more at wmcarey.edu/MakingCollegeAffordable

Living on the Gulf Coast since 2011. Investing on the Gulf Coast for the last 20 years. I love everything about Real Estate. That is why I became a Realtor to help people. Every house I assist clients sell, buy, or build creates opportunities for them to build their personal wealth, family memories, community engagement and living the dream. I have lived several places but I love living on the MS Gulf Coast. Let me help you create that opportunity for you! Personal service is key to everyone’s success. I am so proud to work with EPIC HOMES, LLC. Rick McMurtry the owner and broker has been building custom homes on the MS Gulf Coast since 2014 and has over 30 years of general contractor experience. Epic Homes was voted best local builder 2 times. I look forward to helping you on your next real estate purchase!

JENIFER FRERIDGE, CASSANDRA CONNER, AND ANGELA GEORGE

I am a life long resident of Biloxi. Married to my husband Aaron of 14 years, mother to Caroline our 10 year old daughter and our two dogs Lucky and Maggie both 5 years old. I have worked in the Vacation Rental Market for 12 years, earning many awards and asked to speak at several national conferences. Every day I am proud of the company that I helped build and the people I work with. It is truly not work when you enjoy the tasks every day and the people you work with. I say it so often, that we are not co-workers, we are family. That is what sets us apart from other companies, our love for each other and our love for what we do!

The MS Gulf Coast is such a special place to me! It is my

JACQUELINE WILSON Owner

passion to share the love I have for it. There is no other place in the world like right here! I want everyone to see the beauty of the MS Gulf Coast. I am passionate about protecting our way of life as well! Not all development is good for us. We have to protect what makes us different from other places. Keep our small town charm while expanding our tourism market. My greatest accomplishment by far is my family! Watching my daughter grow into a beautiful young lady is everything! Showing her every day that you can be successful and have a family. My husband supports me in all of my adventures. Supportive when needed and honest when I do not always want to hear it!

www.BiloxiBeachResortRentals.com

“It takes a village to make this world of BBRR spin! And my village is amazing!”

JAMIE WAYNE

Owner/barista

Boozer’s Brew & a Café Too Jamie Wayne, a Woolmarket native, is a Gulfport resident. She owns/operates four businesses with 15 years of barista experience. For the past seven years, she has had the pleasure to serve the Gulf Coast at Boozer’s Brew & a Cafe Too, founded with her father. She is a proud member of the Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport. She is one of six siblings, has been married to her husband for six years and is a mother to a beautiful 2-yearold daughter.

KATIE WIDDOWS

SVP, director of total rewards

Hancock Whitney

Katie Widdows is an SVP and director of total rewards at Hancock Whitney. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Bachelor and Master of Accountancy from the University of Mississippi. She is a certified public accountant, SHRM-CP ((Society for Human Resource ManagementCertified Professional) and a graduate of the Mississippi School of Banking and Leadership Gulf Coast. She is a past recipient of the Mississippi Society of Certified Public Accountants’ Fred T. Neely Gold Medal, MBAs’ Donald L. Moak Award and the One Coast Top 10 Under 40 Award.

ALEXIS WILLIAMS

Founder

Aloha Glamour

Alexis Williams is the founder of Aloha Glamour, which creates cultured fashion for trendsetting women. She is an author and also honored to be crowned Mississippi. Black Gulf Coast 2023. She has been featured on Oprah.com, Beyonce.com and Black Enterprise and is an award-winning humanitarian. She is a 17-year retired U.S. Air Force combat veteran and proud to be a leader, energizer and innovator in and around the Mississippi Gulf Coast and beyond.

KELLY DEVINE

Outreach and events manager

Singing River Health System

Kelly Devine is a driven communicator with over eight years of experience that includes work both nationally and internationally. She received her bachelor’s degree in voice performance, as well as her master’s, from Heidelberg University. She is the past director of Coast Young Professionals and is the past liaison for Leadership Gulf Coast. Her background and passions lie in nonprofit work and leadership development, and she serves on the board of directors for multiple local organizations.

Adele Lyons, IOM Chief Executive Officer

Rachel Leggitt, IOM Finance Director

LaWanda Jones Director, Biloxi Chamber of

Kendyll Palermo Programming Director

Alexis Higgins Communications & Marketing Director

Sydney Ray Executive Liaison & Customer Service Leader

Matti Rae Seymour Director, Long Beach & Pass Christian Chamber

Joy Douglas Membership Director

CAITLIN MILES Physical therapist

Powerback Rehabilitation

Caitlin Miles has been a geriatric physical therapist for eight years. She’s a U.S. Navy wife and bonus mom to the sweetest little girl. She’s line leader for Krewe of Sirens and a satellite member with But God Ministries of Jackson, attending mission trips to Haiti as a lead physical therapist. She also is a member of Junior Auxiliary of Biloxi-Ocean Springs, serving over 125 service hours, and participates in the Naval Fleet Readiness Group, which assists with families’ needs during deployments.

PAM MOELLER

Director of external relations, coastal operations

The University of Southern Mississippi

Pam Moeller is the director of external relations at The University of Southern Mississippi. She received a degree from Mississippi State University and is enrolled in a master’s program at USM. She is responsible for developing and fostering relationships with local and regional businesses, elected officials, governmental groups and associations to promote USM research and educational capabilities. In 2023, she secured over $45 million in new funding for USM from the Mississippi Legislature.

MELISSA SCHNOOR

Director of community relations

Singing River Health System

Melissa Schnoor is the chair of the Women’s Symposium and serves on the diversity, equity and inclusion committee for the health system. Schnoor’s community involvement includes serving on the board of directors for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, the board of directors for LGGC, Pascagoula Excel by 5 Coalition, the 2023 LGC Board, Ingalls 5K on the Causeway Committee and Kiwanis Club. She is a graduate of the Leadership Jackson County class of 2019 and a graduate of the Leadership Gulf Coast class of 2023.

ADRIENNE LACOUR General

manager

The Garden District

Adrienne LaCour has been an avid gardener most of her life and has a degree in landscape architecture from Louisiana State University. She joined Chris Hoz, owner of The Garden District Nursery, last April. She is president of the Bay Waveland Garden Club and a member of The New Orleans Old Garden Rose Society. She is working with the beautification committee of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce to reintroduce old garden/antique roses to Bay St. Louis and Waveland.

“Success is not owned; it is rented, and rent is due daily.”

Latasha D. McCullar is a retired Army Acquisition officer after 20 years of service, she currently serves as VP of Operations for Blacklidge Emulsions. Following the loss of her son in 2018, she founded the Josten J. Day Foundation, a nonprofit raising awareness to decrease the loss of lives due to reckless driving. Tasha has a passion for children and serves on several organization boards including Junior Auxiliary, Boys & Girls Club, and the MS Early Childhood Investment Council. Tasha is a 2023 graduate of the Leadership Gulf Coast Class.

https://blacklidge.com

of

CHAPMAN Republican Party

LATASHA McCULLAR Blacklidge Emulsions, VP of Operations

I have experienced success because I have learned to surround myself with faith-filled, courageous women and men. One cannot strive for success alone. There has to be a deeper understanding of a shared purpose. My success is directly attributed to the team of exceptional individuals that serve the work of Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia. So many people have poured their knowledge, talents, time, and faith into our success story. Along the way, I have learned that to experience genuine success, I have to be willing to have a team that works with me, not for me, speaks the truth to me when I need to hear it, forgives me when I fall short, and understands that we each have to walk inside our stories and own them.

As the oldest child in a blue-collar family, we did not even discuss education. So, it was no surprise when I quit high school and got a job in the local sewing factory. I quickly realized that my life would not be what I wanted unless I made some radical changes. With the help of some great people, I got my GED and enrolled in the local community college. Over the next decade, I got my Associates, Bachelors, and Masters degrees and became a CPA. I was blessed with many great career opportunities, but my heart struggled with the focus on financial success over everything else. It was that struggle that led me to Coastal Family Health Center as the Chief Financial Officer in 2015. It didn’t take long to understand that being part of something that really matters makes all the difference. I am humbled every day to be part of an organization that cares so passionately about our patients and staff on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

“You either walk inside your story and own it, or you stand outside your story and hustle for your worthiness.

- Brene’ Brown

Left - LAUREN HOUSTON, Principal & Dyslexia Therapist Center - TRACI BARRIENTOS, Executive Director & Dyslexia Therapist

Right - SORREL DUNCAN, Financial Director & Dyslexia Therapist Not Pictured - STEPHANIE HILL, Co-Director & Dyslexia Therapist

KAYLA REGGIO, Director of Curriculum Development & Teacher Training

KELLY NASTASI, Director of Diagnostics, Psychometrist

CARLA MCCALEB, Administrative Advisor & Public School Relations

TERRY LYNN TERRY Chief Financial Officer

“Success consists of going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm.”

Churchill

SUCCESS SHOWCASE

“If you want to feel proud of yourself, then do good. Take action that will make you proud. And if you really want to feel proud, then do something to help someone else.”

~ Oseola McCarty

As Director of External Relations for The University of Southern Mississippi Coastal Operations, Moeller supports USM’s community and governmental relations goals. Pam is the primary contact for local businesses, institutions, governmental groups, residences, and other community-based entities.

Pam also serves as the USM representative for all external community events. In addition, she manages a Coastal Operations-based strategy to strengthen relationships with elected officials, government agencies, and community stakeholders.

Moeller is a Leadership Mississippi, Leadership Jackson County, and Leadership Gulf Coast graduate who has served on the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce, Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce, and Jackson and George County United Way board of directors. Moeller also served as an honorary commander for the 403rd wing at Keesler Air Force Base and is currently a member of the Gulf Coast Business Council Master Leadership Class. She now lives in Biloxi, Miss., and has one son that lives in Louisiana.

With over 20 years of experience, Marisa Stringer, NP-C, CANS specializes in cosmetic and general dermatology at Pine Belt Dermatology in Biloxi. She has 15 years of experience as an advanced injector trained in all injectables including Botox and dermal fillers, chemical peels, microneedling, and skincare. She is an accomplished speaker and instructor and serves as a board member for the National Academy of Dermatology Nurse Practitioners where she lectures on aesthetic workshops. She is also a speaker for Regeneron and Sanofi Genzyme and the Director of the Aesthetics program for CoreMedSource. Marisa has resided on the Mississippi Gulf Coast for over 15 years. She attributes her success to her love of the profession and the support of her family, friends, and staff.

“Success is doing what you love and appreciating those around you!”

MARISA STRINGER, NP-C, C. A. N. S.

PAMELA MOELLER Director of External Relations

BRANDI LADNER

Manager, respiratory therapy

Memorial Health System

Brandi Ladner is the manager of the respiratory therapy department at Memorial Health System. She believes in the team and the health system she works with to provide high-quality patient care while using the top lifesaving technological advances. She is most proud of the teamwork and camaraderie within the hospital to pull through the COVID-19 pandemic. She holds a Bachelor of Science as well as a Master of Science in health care informatics.

CRYSTAL LESHORE

Teacher, author, cheer coach, youth advisor, nonprofit business owner

Black Girls Code

Crystal Leshore is a wife, mother, teacher, children’s author, youth advisor for the NAACP, education board member of the NAACP, cheer coach and a nonprofit business owner. She helps the youth in the community to become leaders through community service, tutoring sessions for academics and leadership involvement. While being a teacher and a cheer coach, she also writes books and wrote grants for her students to improve their technology enhancements.

JAMIE MCSHANE

Financial center leader

Hancock Whitney Bank

Jamie McShane is a financial center leader at Hancock Whitney Bank with 16 years of banking experience. She graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2010 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. She is a member of Make A Wish South Mississippi and Gulfport Rotary Club.

CHELSEA PRINCE

Author/writer/president

Ocean Springs Historical Society

Chelsea Prince is the author of the newly released children’s book about Carl the Rooster of Ocean Springs. In 2022, she founded the Ocean Springs Historical Society and has helped gather and document oral histories, photographs and written histories through social media. She has scanned 20,000 photos for the city and is now working on a photo archive for the Ocean Springs History Museum at The Mary C. Cultural Arts Center.

KAREN SLATER, AU.D. Owner

~ Helen Keller

As a clinical audiologist for over 36 years, Karen Slater has served the Mississippi Gulf Coast for more than 30 years. She has grown a small business into a large practice with three offices across the Gulf Coast. Karen also serves as a preceptor for two universities, allowing doctorate level audiology students to train at her facility for their clinical experience. She is honored that more than 75 students will have Coastal Hearing Center as one of their initial training experiences.

Coastal Hearing Center diagnoses hearing and/or balance issues in patients ranging from newborns to geriatrics. Hearing aids are their specialty, if medical intervention is not applicable. Bringing communication back to people who have been deprived is always a rewarding and emotional experience for Karen and her team.

1720A Medical Park Dr., Ste. 140 | Biloxi, MS 228-207-7102

3017 13th St. | Gulfport, MS 39501 228-863-6592

I would think of myself as a more couture designer with an urban flare. We offer custom designs from start to finish: Bridal party’s Grooms packages, special events, prom, birthdays etc. Our pieces are intricate and original. Sewing is my comfort and safe space and I love to tell stories with my garments, my desire is to create for women of all shape, size, color and ethnicity. I started sewing at 16 years old, at first I hated it, my mom encouraged me to continue and now I am obsessed. This is how I express myself and I love a dramatic entrance to an event and my pieces screams exactly that. I believe that every design has an energy and when I design it’s from a place of worship. I thank God for the gift and the love I pour into each design. It’s a ministry and I am still extremely excited with every piece. This is my way of uplifting and empowering others through creating garment and teaching sewing classes. Over the years I have taught more than an 100 women and men to sew, and some now use this as a stream of income.

During the last 8 years my designs have graced: New Orleans Fashion Week, Georgia Peach Fashion Week , Mobile Fashion, Juneteenth Fashion Shows, Houston Fashion Week, Coastal Fashion Week, London Fashion Week, won best designer with the Fashion Life Tour, I had the opportunity to design a gown for the 75th Tony Awards in NYC and many others to God be the glory and scheduled to appear in Milan Fashion Week 2023.

NADINE GENTLES Owner

“Blindness separates people from things, Hearing separates people from people.”

“Uplifting and empowering others.”

ROXANE DYKES

Mortgage broker/owner

Magnolia Lending LLC

Roxane Colegrove-Dykes grew up and resides in Ocean Springs with her husband, Jason. She is the owner of Magnolia Lending, She is passionate about helping people become homeowners and is dedicated to providing exceptional service. She serves as a vetted VA professional by helping educate and guide veterans in homeownership. She is a Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber member who serves as an ambassador, as well as a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast, and is on several boards in the community. She is a member of Ocean Springs’ Church of Christ.

SHEA FAYARD

Mind-body transformation specialist

Empire Built

Shea Fayard, a mind-body transformation specialist, empowers clients through integrative wellness, focusing on health, nutrition, weight training and self-love. She holds certifications in training, nutrition and sports medicine. She and her husband, Sean, founded Empire Built, where they offer tailored coaching programs and online resources via their app. She is competing in the National Powerlifting Championships this month in an attempt to secure a spot on Team USA and also the World Powerlifting Championships in November.

ANDREA RILEY Owner, CEO

MER Solutions

Andrea J. Riley is an entrepreneur, single mother (one of her sons being on the autism spectrum), international speaker, four-time best-selling author, a military veteran and a national advocate and international support group facilitator. She is the founder and CEO of MER Solutions LLC., which helps small businesses and nonprofits, and the platform AJRileyMomprenuer, a support space for mothers and authors.

QUINTELLA MOORE

CEO

I Am Graced 4 Moore

Quintella Moore is a community leader, wife and mother making a global impact. Her passion for unity empowers individuals to activate their purpose and maximize their potential. She is a Hattiesburg native and is now a Gulf Coast resident with her husband. They both pastor NDMINTL. She’s the owner of Cavella’s Boutique & Things, Kingdom Vision Consulting and I Am Graced 4 Moore. She has over 25 years of leadership and administrative experience across federal, state and private sectors.

ELEVATING TRAVEL AT GPT, WE’RE

Coast Accommodation Group is a premier full-service short term rental management company with a focus on southern hospitality. As a property owner, you need someone that will treat your investment as their own. As a lifelong resident and lover of the MS Gulf Coast, I opened this company to share my love and passion of the Coast with visitors and owners alike. Coast Accommodation Group is a growing business and taking new listings today.

YOUR COAST HOST 228-860-7773

www.coastaccommodationgroup.com

amber@coastaccommodationgroup.com

“The key to my success has been setting aside fear of the unknown and breaking barriers through dedication, passion and hard work.”

CASSIE ARCHEBELLE

Entrepreneur/business owner

NuSkin

Coming from a background in TV news (WLOX) for 11 years, Cassie Archebelle switched careers at 33 years old to give herself more time freedom with her family and financial flexibility. She started doing network marketing and now has a team of over 600 women within two years. She loves getting to help them reach their own goals, no matter how big or small. This job has given her a new purpose in life.

THERESA AVINA

Fulfilment specialist

Hancock Whitney Bank

Theresa Avina resides in Long Beach and is the mother to an amazing teenager and many pets. She works for Hancock Whitney Bank in the consumer lending risk department and serves on the bank’s diversity, equity and inclusion council. Her deep passion for volunteering has led to her current role as the board treasurer for Gulf Coast Equality in Gulfport. Her goal while volunteering is to advocate, empower and promote human rights for all.

SHAINA BARNETT

Entrepreneur

Southern Brow Boutique LLC

Shaina Barnett is an entrepreneur and small business owner. She owns and operates a rural salon that offers microblading (eyebrow) services. She is a lifelong resident of the coast and also has held a real estate license over the past four years. Helping people enhance their own beauty and feel good about themselves is one of the most rewarding things she has ever done.

CELESTINE BARTON

Salon owner/caterer

Fabulous Images Style and Barber

Shop LLC/ Lessie Girl’s Kitchen and Catering Service

Celestine Barton is a 49-year-old mother of six. She owns and operates Fabulous Images and Lessie Girl’s Kitchen. She has been in the salon business since 2009 and in catering since 2020. She has resided in Biloxi for seven years and has operated her salon here for four years. She also hosts an annual Octoberfest and Women’s Empowerment Brunch for the community, along with an annual Christmas Gala.

I moved to South Mississippi at the age of 10, and I graduated from St. Martin High School. After high school, I attended college at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, Alabama. I completed medical school and residency at the University of South Alabama as well. After completing my pediatric training in 2004, I returned to the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I joined Coastal Family Health Center’s Biloxi Pediatric Clinic in 2009 after practicing medicine in Gulfport for five years; I have served at this location since that time.

As we began to experience the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I transitioned to the role of Chief Medical Officer at Coastal Family Health Center. This role allowed me to serve in a greater capacity as I have a profound love for the children of South Mississippi. As I approach my three-year anniversary in the role of Chief Medical Officer, I am energized to continue finding ways to improve the lives of my patients and their families. I am the mother of four amazing children whom I love dearly.

DR.

As Vice President of Resiliency and Disaster Recovery for Hill International, one would think that I would have no extra time to devote to a new business, much less a restaurant. However, in September of 2021, Joe Castoro and I opened Beachside at Buoys in Bay St. Louis, a dream for Joe and me. Chef Joe, a culinary graduate of the Florida Culinary Institute, and I had always talked about opening a scratch kitchen with a manageable menu in Old Town. So, we jumped into the restaurant business with 2 feet without looking back. While Joe designs his signature recipes, I focus on marketing, business consulting, planning, and catering bookings. We draw from each other’s strengths while making strides along the Gulf Coast. Most recently, we have been invited to be a part of Karla Hull’s Favorite Chef competition. So, as you often hear people say....we are living the dream!

WENDY WILLIAMS Chief Medical Officer

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

~Maya Angelou

“Sail away from your safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover!”

~ Mark Twain

MICHELLE BEAUREGARD Co-Owner Beachside at Buoys

CARISSA BOLDEN

Family nurse practitioner

NuCare Medical and Weight Loss Center

Carissa Bolden is a native of Wiggins. She graduated with honors in 2018 with her Master of Science degree in nursing and now is completing the Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. She has served as a subcontractor for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Department of Defense, as well as a civil surgeon examiner and hospitalist. She has five years of diverse experience as a nurse practitioner and 16 years as a registered nurse. She graduated from school with a focus on adult health and primary care.

BRANDY BRYAN

Manager

Moxie Shop and Crooked Coast

Other than being a proud mom and wife, Brandy Bryan is currently the manager of two local businesses, Moxie Shop and Crooked Coast. Working at a curvy-only boutique has given her the opportunity to meet some incredible women. It has also allowed her to help remind some of them that all women are beautiful and sparkle in their own way. She loves music, art, unicorns and glitter and feels that everyone deserves to sparkle.

MARY BURDICK

Director of foster care and adoption

Southern Christian Services

Mary Burdick has a 2-year-old. Her degree is in social work, and she has an LMSW (licensed master social worker certification). Her mission in life is to help children and families from hard places. She especially has a passion for adoption and loves to encourage adoptive families through a monthly support group. She volunteers with the Junior Auxiliary of Biloxi-Ocean Springs and likes to dance with the Krewe of Sirens. She loves supporting/attending women’s groups, such as WOW Women of Wisdom. She also recently joined Coast Young Professionals.

CYNTHIA CHAUVIN

Executive director

CASA of Hancock County

Cynthia Chauvin has over 22 years of experience in child welfare, child advocacy, nonprofit volunteer management and resource development. She has spent the last nine years as CASA of Hancock County’s executive director. Her passion for children and their safety makes her an incredible asset to her Hancock County community. She holds a Master of Jurisprudence degree in child law and policy from Loyola Chicago.

Roxane grew up in Ocean Springs, MS, and resides there with her husband, Jason. Roxane is the owner of Magnolia Lending and is passionate about helping people become home-owners. Roxane has over 30 years of experience in the Financial Industry, with more than 22 years of those in the Mortgage Industry. Community involvement is very important to her. She is a member of the MS Gulf Coast Chamber and serves as an Ambassador and is a graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast. Roxane serves on several boards in her community. She is a lifelong member of the OS Church of Christ. Roxane also serves as a Vetted VA Professional, helping to educate and guide active duty and veterans with homeownership.

“Your smile is your logo, your personality is your business card, and the way you make others feel is your trademark.”

- Jay Danzie

JANICE SPENCER

CEO/owner

Epitome Cheveux

Janice Spencer is a Gulf Coast awardwinning celebrity stylist and owner of Gulf Coast’s only high-end wig boutique. She just globally launched an affordable wig collection on Walmart.com. Her customized glueless wigs, hair extensions, instant ponytails and seamless clipin products are next level and top tier. Epitome Cheveux is here to encourage women who are experiencing hair loss to feel naturally beautiful and help keep their confidence soaring.

DOLLY SCHULZ

Owner, chef

Heavenly Helpings

Dolly Schulz is the owner and chef at Heavenly Helpings, a small, woman-owned specialty snack business. She is a wife, mother of four, nurse and small business owner. Her business specializes in specialty crackers, snacks and catering. She has taken something she did to support her daughters’ school and turned it into a business that can now be found in Fleurty Girl and River Road Mercantile. She creates all flavors and spice mixes herself.

MONA ODOM

Motivational speaker/life coach

Mona Odom Speaks

As a published author featured in “Elevated: Rise of the Underdog,” Mona Odom uses her life experiences to motivate women to achieve what they thought was impossible. Her purpose is to offer innovative solutions to interpersonal issues. She was a Lighthouse Business and Professional Women’s 2021 Woman of Achievement finalist in government and military and has been featured at the 2022 Success Women’s Conference and the 2022 Bold, Fierce and Powerful Women’s Summit.

RAVIN NETTLES

Administration and community relations coordinator

City of Ocean Springs

As the administration and community relations coordinator for the City of Ocean Springs, Ravin Nettles oversees the operations of the mayor’s office, public relations and community relations. She owns Gray Gatherings, an event- and wedding-planning company on the Gulf Coast. She is a 2023 graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast and serves on the board of directors for the United Way of Jackson, George and Greene Counties. She also is the co-host of the City Culture Podcast.

TANYA HARMON, PharmD Compounding Pharmacist

In Life and Hormones..... Always Stay Balanced.

I graduated from Xavier University and have been a pharmacist for 20 years. I’m currently with Sartin’s Discount Drugs as the Compounding pharmacist and Hormone Specialist. As a hormone specialist for 10 years I’m passionate to help women and men lead healthier and more balanced lives with BioIdentical Hormones. I work with practitioners and patients to develop the exact combination to achieve optimal hormone balance. As a compounding pharmacist there is really no limit

to what we can accomplish and who we can help. It all starts with a problem; the child can’t swallow pills, the patient has a gluten allergy, or the much-needed drug is in short supply; for whatever reason, many people aren’t served by mass produced medications. We can provide solutions!

Personalized medications and our patients are at the heart of what we do, and we strive to provide the utmost service to all things pharmacy!

RACHEL MORAN Owner

Sunkissed Pools, Patios, and Outdoor Kitchens

Rachel Moran, the proud owner of Sunkissed Pools, Patios, and Outdoor Kitchens, loves her career as a cardiac and vascular sonographer, but she has always dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur. She believes customer satisfaction and feedback are key to a successful business. She keeps up with trends and technologies in the industry and ensures her team members are highly skilled and trained. Her goal is to provide customers with a unique, personalized experience.

RITA GREEN Founder/co-founder

Geaux Fig Co./Geaux Rabbit

Rita Green, the founder of Geaux Fig Co. and co-founder of Geaux Rabbit, is a digital maven from Biloxi. With 18 years of hospitality experience and a strong educational background, she serves several nonprofits and has received numerous awards, including Mississippi Business Journal’s Top 50 Leading Businesswomen. A three-time bestselling author, she values touching lives globally over personal achievements and is a dedicated wife and mother of four while remaining active in her community.

ALINA GOLDIN Executive director

The DEN

Alina Goldin is the creator and executive director of a Gulfport nonprofit called The Dynamic Enrichment Network (aka The DEN). She saw a need for more enrichment opportunities for children, adults and special needs in the Gulfport area, and she is updating the former Westminster Academy to meet that need. At The DEN, people of all ages can take classes to acquire skills in art, culinary, etiquette, foreign languages, dance and much more.

JENIFER FRERIDGE Director of business programs and external relations

William Carey University

Jenifer Freridge is a lifelong resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. She is the director of business programs and the external relations coordinator at William Carey University. She is a graduate of the Gulf Coast Business Council Master’s Class, Leadership Gulf Coast and Leadership Mississippi. She is a lifetime member of the Junior Auxiliary, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber, the Jackson County Chamber and more. She has been featured as One Coast Top 10 Under 40, One Coast Community Leader and Coast Young Professionals Hall of Fame.

ELEVATIONS

SINGING RIVER HEALTH SYSTEM CELEBRATES OPENING OF SINGING RIVER DIGESTIVE HEALTH CLINIC IN HANCOCK COUNTY

After a recent ribbon-cutting celebration, Singing River Digestive Health clinic in Bay St. Louis is now officially open for business.

The clinic is accepting new patients, who can visit the clinic Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. To schedule an appointment, call (228) 575-7104 or visit SingingRiverHealthSystem.com.

“We are delighted to enhance patient access and deliver high-quality care to the Hancock County community,” says Tiffany Murdock, CEO of Singing River Health System. “By offering specialized digestive health services to the community, we aspire to improve the wellbeing of local residents and those in neighboring areas.”

USM STUDENT EARNS PRESTIGIOUS ACCOUNTING SCHOLARSHIP

TeKatelyn McGill, an accounting major at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) has been awarded a prestigious Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) scholarship. McGill, a native of Gulfport, will be entering her senior year during the fall 2023 semester. Her plans are to apply for the MPA program at USM and earn the necessary 150 hours to sit for the CPA exam. The PCAOB Scholars Program seeks to benefit students who are likely to become auditors and to make a difference to students who might otherwise choose a different career path.

USM STUDENT ORGANIZATION RECEIVES NATIONAL RECOGNITION

The National Student Speech Language Hearing Association Chapter at The University of Southern Mississippi has been awarded Gold Chapter Honors for attaining a distinguished level of achievement in the areas of member recruitment and engagement, community outreach and service, legislative advocacy and fundraising during the 2022-23 academic year.

The announcement was made by the parent organization, National NSSLHA, whose members are studying communication sciences and disorders speech-language pathology and audiology at the undergraduate, graduate and doctoral levels at colleges and universities nationwide.

“We are so proud of the 2022-23 Gold Chapter Honors awardees, and we congratulate them on all they’ve achieved this year,” says NSSLHA Executive Council President Gabrielle Howard. “Each chapter demonstrated a deep commitment to its members, its community, and the professions, and embodied NSSLHA’s values in the areas of collaboration, diversity, education, integrity, leadership and service,” she said.

During the 2022-23 academic year, the USM chapter of NSSLHA participated in 15 service projects for the community, university, and individuals with communication and hearing difficulties. National NSSLHA supports nearly 11,000 members and more than 350 chapters at colleges and universities nationwide.

JUNIOR AUXILIARY OF GULFPORT NAMES 2023-2024 EXECUTIVE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport is pleased to announce its 2023-2024 Executive Board of Directors.

As the organization kicks off another service year, members look forward to serving their communities and continuing the Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport’s legacy.

Those chosen to serve on the 2023-2024 board are:

• Courtney Jacobs, president

• Gabrielle Rose, vice president, general welfare

• April Hoyt, social welfare chair

• Amber Thomas, fundraising chair

• Alesia Haynes, provisional trainer

• Karen Brogdon, treasurer

• Mary Ellen Stevens, corresponding secretary

• Lauren Sullivan, recording secretary

• Edirne McVay, parliamentarian

• Abby Weldon, hours and education

• Kristen Kelley, public relations chair

The Junior Auxiliary of Gulfport, founded in 1948, believes that caring for a child today makes an important difference, not only at that moment in a child’s life, but for the future. This belief has been the driving force behind its efforts. Visit https:// www.jagulfport.org/ to learn more.

STANDOUTS

TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS OF THE YEAR

Teacher of the Year: Stacy Campbell Administrator of the Year: Maci Torres

HANCOCK COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

*editor’s note: The photos of the West Harrison High School valedictorian and salutatorian appeared incorrectly in the June issue. We regret the error.

VALS AND SALS

BILOXI HIGH SCHOOL

HARRISON CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL

Valedictorian: Dakota Wilson Salutatorian: Josephine Coffell

HANCOCK HIGH SCHOOL

WEST HARRISON HIGH SCHOOL

Valedictorian: Kathryn Page Salutatorian: Meredith Rogers

GULFPORT HIGH SCHOOL

Valedictorian:

D’IBERVILLE HIGH SCHOOL

Valedictorian: Dylan Dexter Salutatorian: Nathan Doan

Valedictorian: Brandon Geray

Salutatorian: Alan Wang

Salutatorian: Alexa Palmer

Valedictorian: Renee Vassallo

Emma Helmert Salutatorian: Leslie Carraway

Insurance works by transferring the risk of financial loss from the policyholder to the insurance company. When someone purchases an insurance policy, he or she pays a premium to the insurance company in exchange for coverage against certain risks, such as illness, injury, property damage or other losses. One type of coverage that is worth considering is disability insurance.

There are two types of disability insurance: short-term and long-term. Shortterm disability insurance typically pays benefits for a few months to a year, while long-term disability insurance can provide benefits for several years or until retirement age.

Short-term disability generally refers to temporary impairments that affect your ability to perform regular activities for a limited period. Short-term disabilities may result from an accident, surgery, acute illness or temporary conditions like a broken bone or a severe flu, or even having a baby. The duration of a short-term disability could range from a few days to

several months, but it is generally expected to be resolved with time or appropriate medical treatment.

Long-term disabilities are more chronic conditions, which are continuing impairments that persist for an extended period, typically more than six months or even a lifetime. These disabilities may result from congenital conditions, progressive diseases, injuries with lasting effects or chronic illnesses. Long-term disabilities often require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation or assistance with managing daily activities.

The duration and classification of disabilities may vary depending on regional definitions, laws and insurance policies. In some cases, short-term disabilities could progress into long-term disabilities if the condition does not improve within the expected timeframe.

Disability insurance provides income replacement if you become unable to work due to a disability. You may purchase disability insurance from an insurance company, either through your employer or

BY ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE

on your own. If you became disabled and couldn’t work, you would file a claim with the insurance company. The insurance company would then review your claim and may require documentation from your doctor or other medical professionals to verify your disability.

When your claim is approved, the insurance company would begin paying you a portion of your pre-disability income on a regular basis, typically monthly. The amount of the benefit and the length of time you would receive it depend on the terms of your policy.

Make sure that you understand the terms of your disability insurance policy and what it covers before you need to file a claim.

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

tips to take your outdoor space to the next level 5

BY SKYLAR MAVAR

Summer is meant to be a time for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors, so why not plan your space accordingly? Just like interior rooms, your patio, deck and other outdoor areas can benefit from seasonal sprucing to make them comfortable, welcoming places for family and friends.

Ready to step up your outdoor entertaining game? Here are five tips to get you started.

1. PROTECTION

Whether it be from the rain or the sun, you’re going to want some protection. This can be achieved several ways, but the most popular is a patio cover.

The best thing about them? They can easily be

decorated with string lights, plants or other hangable décor.

Alternatives include:

• umbrellas

• patio gazebos

• awnings

• outdoor curtains

• shade sail

2. PLANTS

Real or fake, a little greenery can make your patio more vibrant and colorful. Consider adding a centerpiece succulent to your table or placing taller plants in the corners. See how a hanging plant, such as a tradescantia, can make your patio a little greener. When properly placed, plant life also can be used to make a patio feel intimate and private. Think vertically with your garden to disguise walls and soften the space. Vertical greenery can free up valuable patio area for some stylish furniture.

3.

COMFORT

What’s the point of decorating a patio if you aren’t comfortable enough to enjoy it? Adding colorful comfort pieces, such as soft cushions for your chairs, benches or lounges, can give your patio that much-needed relaxation factor.

Ways to add comfort include:

• throw pillows

• throw blankets

• outdoor rugs

• hammocks

4. FIRE PIT

No Southern patio is complete without a fire pit, which provides a year-round, attractive focal point for your outdoor space. It can occupy less visual and physical room while creating a casual and intimate atmosphere. The best part about a fire pit is its straightforward installation. No venting is needed, which allows greater flexibility in installation and construction costs. Plus, it’s a natural bug repellant.

5. WARMTH

While it is a necessary factor to comfort, warmth deserves its own category. There are many ways to emotionally warm your patio space. The key to a warm, soothing outdoor space is using little details to create a cozy setting.

With warmth, it’s all about the little things. Here are a few small things that can make your patio feel warmer:

• vibrant/patterned cushions

• woven or wooden furniture

• additional side tables

• ambiance candles

• string lights

TRY THESE HOT DESIGN TRENDS TO

keep your home cool

BY JENNIFER MILLER

Many of us look forward to summer, but the intense heat and humidity on the Coast can pose a challenge. Fortunately, you can put many interior design trends to work in your home, transforming your living space into a delightful, comfortable haven and allowing you to savor the outdoors without suffering from scorching temperatures.

• One of the most popular interior design trends right now is the use of natural materials. Incorporating elements like wood, stone and woven fabrics can help create a sense of connection with the outdoors — plus they tend to have properties than make them excellent insulators. For a start, consider adding a natural wood coffee table or a jute rug to your living room.

• Another trend that can help you stay cool is the use of light colors. Lighter shades of paint and decor can help reflect sunlight and keep your home feeling bright and airy. Consider using shades of white and beige and pastel colors to create a calming, refreshing atmosphere.

• If you want to bring a bit of nature inside, plants and greens are a great choice. Not only do plants help clean the air, but they also can bring a tranquil, rejuvenating vibe to your home. Consider adding potted plants to your living room or hanging plants from the ceiling to create an organic and inviting feel.

As for making your home habitable in the heat, plants can help with that, too. By the process of transpiration, they release moisture into the air, cooling themselves and the surrounding environment.

• Finally, if you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors without having to endure the heat, consider adding a covered outdoor area to your home. A shaded porch or patio can provide protection from the sun while still allowing you to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful coastal views.

Why not take advantage of these exciting trends and create a space that you and your loved ones can enjoy for the rest of the season and beyond?

Jennifer Miller is a certified interior designer, professional home stager and the president of Jennuwine Design, Sophisticated Staging. Reach her at jenn@jennuwinedesign.net or (601) 213-8729.

help you choose your fabric then design, custom-make, and deliver exceptional personalized products.

Your July gardening to-do list

As we enter the hottest months of the year, your plants and flowers will require special attention. Here are some tasks to address this month to ensure they remain healthy and thriving this summer and beyond:

• Since July is usually our wettest month, turn off or reduce watering frequency of your irrigation system when not needed. A rain gauge will determine whether we’ve had sufficient rain for lawns and landscapes.

• A light application of fertilizer may be needed to keep annual beds looking their best.

• July weather is favorable to pests. If caught early enough, some infestations can be kept under control by handpicking the pest or disposing of infected leaves. Pesticides or fungicides may be necessary, especially on lawns. Proper identification is imperative to treat effectively.

• Azaleas and camellias are under stress as they are setting next year’s buds. Water them through any dry spells. Agapanthus, also called lily of the Nile, is very popular along the Gulf Coast. If they dry out during the heat of summer, they won’t bloom next spring.

• Cut back perennials and fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer to encourage more flowers. Slow-release fertilizers are safter for the environment and last longer.

• Potted plants dry out much faster in the summer heat. They may require watering daily; some twice a day. A humectant mixed in the soil when planting may help retain moisture so watering is decreased.

• Cover dark pots do avoid extreme heat to the roots. Dark pots may be placed inside lighter ones to help with this.

This is also an apt time to consider healthy environmental habits when it comes to gardening. I recently returned from London, where I was excited to attend the Chelsea Flower Show. The show has been held since 1912 and only was halted for World Wars I and II. It was started to raise money for the Chelsea Hospital, which was established to treat veterans of all branches of the British military.

BY DARLENE UNDERWOOD

Chelsea Flower Show exhibitors must submit proposals months in advance that are juried. Growers, designers, seed companies and small garden equipment are presented in beautiful settings, many under huge tents. Display gardens are erected in a week of intensive activity and judged based on criteria established by the Royal Horticulture Society. Competition is fierce.

Environmental impacts of products and services are of great importance. Most floral designs used wire, native vines and limbs to support their designs. Compostables and sustainable practices were front and center. As 97 percent of the United Kingdom’s pollinators have been eradicated, largely due to the use of pesticides, there is a huge push to reverse this trend.

Wildflowers and native grasses once again are allowed to grow on roadsides. Hedgerows are encouraged, giving small animals like hedgehogs and rabbits more habitat and safe passages. Homeowners are being enlisted to plant native plants in their gardens. One can only hope America follows suite with these positive practices.

Darlene Underwood is a Mississippi master gardener, nationally accredited flower show judge and Garden Clubs of Mississippi Inc. second vice president. Reach her at darlene. underwood@att.net.

KID-FRIENDLY BACKYARDS TO INSPIRE NATURE PLAY

Summertime is a wonderful time to encourage children to play outside more often. Here are many fun, easy ways to encourage more outdoor activities.

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Ready or not, ‘change is gonna come’

Sam Cooke may have said it best with his 1963 song, “A Change is Gonna Come.” Although Cooke was trying to further social justice due to the struggles that he, and others who looked like him, experienced, the lyrics also resonate in my caregiving journey. I’m sure other caregivers can relate and sing along with me.

I’ve crossed over to middle age and noticed changes within myself. Sometimes they are inexplicable, like going to sleep with no aches or pains only to awake with new discomforts and restrictions. My friends and I attribute this phenomenon to aging, which is probably how I can make sense of the changes that occur from day to day, week to week or even hour to hour with my parents, who are living with dementia.

Just when I have become comfortable with my parents’ dispositions and our established routines, something changes and disrupts my flow.

If I am being realistic about my journey with my parents, I should remember that change has been constant. Change often comes as drastic shifts and may be caused by medical or environmental factors, or just simple aging. For me, the disruption can be the difference between a 10-minute visit and an extended stay; instead of just escorting momma to the bathroom, I might have to spend time coaxing her out of bed or physically getting her out of bed and down the hall.

I thought I had momma figured out. If she behaved differently, I’d immediately check her blood sugar. Although I still do that first, I recently have discovered that sometimes momma’s drastic changes have nothing to do with hyperglycemia/ hypoglycemia. I’ve been noticing changes in her behavior and usual calm, compliant disposition even when her blood glucose levels are normal.

While I have not discussed this with her primary care doctor yet, the changes may be due to a new medication, dehydration caused by the new medication, normal aging, consumption of certain foods or beverages, progressing to a new stage of dementia or irritation caused by my demands and expectations.

Daddy always appreciates our assistance. However, he also is quite ornery much of the time. Unlike changes in momma’s disposition, we welcome a shift in daddy’s, as it is usually positive. However, I have noticed that he is most ornery when he grunts and winces, which indicates that he is in some discomfort (as he will not outright admit he is in pain), which could be causing his behavior.

I am learning to expect the unexpected, roll with the punches as they come, be more observant and pay attention to the subtle signs. I know it sounds cliche, but change is inevitable — and therefore should be expected.

While I think I have identified and accommodated the changes I see in my elderly parents, I know there are common conditions that occur simultaneously for many older adults. These conditions, however, do not mean that those blessed with older age can’t live a good, active life. They can live a life of leisure, share wisdom, pursue new passions and spend more time with their family and community. Even if their physical abilities, mental sharpness or both decline, participation in activities and events should be encouraged to avoid feelings of isolation.

Although we were hesitant, we took momma and daddy to a local high school graduation to see a young lady they helped rear. It took great effort to get them there, seated and back home, but momma grinned more than I’ve seen her grin in a while. She was still smiling when I dropped her off. Daddy seemed disconnected during the ceremony but perked up and commented when he heard Mariah’s name called to receive her diploma. The outing was good for them, and seeing her graduate made them proud.

When talking about age-related discomfort, momma always told us, “Just keep on living!” I now know what she means.

Tracy Daniel-Hardy, Ph. D, is the author of “The Adventures of Butch and Ruby: Chronicles of a Caregiver” and director of technology for Gulfport School District. She may be contacted at tracy@ drtracydanielhardy.com.

DR. TRACY DANIEL-HARDY

Daniel-Hardy’s parents, Ruby and Lucious “Butch” Daniel

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City life vs. coastal living – a Houston native shares her insight

BY SUSAN SIEMIONTKOWSKI

Meggan Brown was apprehensive about moving to the Mississippi Gulf Coast after growing up in the bustling city of Houston, Texas. Her fiancé, Hayden Switzer, was a longtime coastal native and looked forward to returning to his roots. He knew that once Meggan experienced the fabulous lifestyle afforded by the Coast, she would love living there as well.

Once settled, Meggan became enamored with the area’s small-town charm. It took little time to adapt to the move, especially in the close-knit community.

“Everyone knows each other, and the people seem more friendly and hospitable,” she says. “They gave me a warm welcome and made me feel like a member of their family.”

To Meggan’s surprise, the Coast has many more

amenities than one would expect in a smaller town. The slower pace of life, with less traffic, noise and pollution than a large city, was something Meggan found enjoyable. Fewer cars on the road and smoother navigation made commuting a delight compared to struggling with bigcity, rush-hour traffic.

“When we go to dinner or an event, I love that we don’t have to wait an hour or more in line as we did in Houston,” Meggan says.

She quickly applied for an executive assistant position with a local home-building company and began working in Gulfport, America’s most affordable beach town. Meggan uncovered the excellent home values in Mississippi’s coastal areas and soon started searching for a home. After realizing how much property they could afford with the lower cost of living on the Coast, the

couple built a beautiful house in Ocean Springs. Hayden and Meggan relish spending time in downtown Ocean Springs at one of the many wonderful restaurants and bars after a day of shopping.

After leaving her position with the home builder, Meggan became the executive assistant to Ocean Springs Mayor Shea Dobson. In her role, she continued to give back to the community through her volunteer work with the Mayor’s Youth Council and Mississippi Heroes. Fishes and Loaves, a local nonprofit that partners with churches and civic organizations to serve meals to those in need, was also important to her.

As summer approaches, Meggan looks forward to spending time in the water, whether the ocean or a local river. She notes that a Deer Island adventure is not to be missed, and a trip to Gulf Island Water Park for a trip down the Horn Island Blaster is another must-do.

Meggan and Hayden have two beautiful dogs they love to walk while chatting with their friends throughout the neighborhood. Hayden often reminds his wife of her newfound appreciation of peace and relaxation since moving to Coastal Mississippi.

“Despite my initial concerns about leaving behind the fast-paced city, I’ve found that I don’t miss the chaotic lifestyle,” Meggan says, “I love the tranquility and sense

KNOWLEDGE EXPERIENCE SUCCESS

a visit the perfect option.”

The Switzers are thrilled that they can do more together as a family because of the lower cost of living on the Coast.

“Come home to Coastal Mississippi,” Hayden says, “where you can live your best life for less, too!”

Susan

Siemiontkowski is a Realtor with Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty. Reach her at (228) 239-2621 or susiesellsthecoast@gmail.com.

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5 REASONS TO TRY CHAIR YOGA

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Whether you are a senior struggling with mobility or a corporate leader who spends her days at a desk, adding some movement into your routine can boost your health and wellness. In fact, people of all ages and abilities can benefit from chair yoga, which offers the advantages of yoga while being easier and more accessible. Even if you are intimidated by yoga, or you have physical limitations, you still can improve your fitness and flexibility; all you need is a chair.

Here are five benefits to practicing chair yoga:

1. Improved flexibility: With its use of gentle movements and stretches, chair yoga can improve flexibility and joint mobility. As we age, it’s increasingly important to stay flexible, which helps to head off injuries and relieve aches and pains. With chair yoga, even those who have balance or mobility problems can get stretch their muscles without having to perform floor poses.

2. Increased strength: Although you’re seated during chair yoga, you’re still engaging and toning various muscle groups, including your core, back, arms and legs. Regular practice can lead to improved posture, stability and greater strength overall.

3. Enhanced balance and coordination: Chair yoga exercises focus on balance and coordination, so those areas will improve with regular practice. For seniors especially, honing these skills can reduce the risk of falls and promote physical stability.

4. Stress relief and relaxation: Who couldn’t use a break? Mindfulness and deep breathing are major parts of any yoga practice, and chair yoga is no different. It offers a respite from an increasingly hectic world, a tim-

eout to focus on yourself and your wellbeing. This helps promote relaxation, stress reduction and a sense of calm. The gentle movements and stretches also release tension throughout the body, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.

5. Accessibility and inclusivity: Even those with chronic pain, injuries or various physical ailments can participate in chair yoga, which is highly accessible and inclusive. Even those who can’t practice traditional yoga can still reap its physical, mental, spiritual and emotional benefits.

IT'S CONVENIENT!

Time is valuable for any busy woman, which brings us to another advantage of chair yoga: It can be done anywhere.

Have 15-20 minutes between meetings or before your kids’ next activity? Shut the door, grab a chair and give these simple moves a try:

Seated cat-cow stretch: Sit up straight with both feet planted on the floor. On the inhale, arch your spine and roll your shoulders down and back into “cow” position. On the exhale, round your back and drop your chin to your chest, letting the shoulder and head fall to assume the “cat” position.

Chair forward fold: Sit and bend over your legs from the waist, letting your head hang heavy. Rest your hands on the floor.

Spinal twist: Sit sideways on the chair, facing to the left. Twist your torso toward the left, holding onto the back of the chair. Elongate your spine on each inhale and twist on each exhale for five breaths. Move your legs around to the right side and repeat.

SMILE GULF COAST: A HAVEN OF COMPLETE AND COMFORTABLE CARE

Nestled along the picturesque Gulf Coast, lies a dental practice that stands out from the rest - Smile Gulf Coast. With its commitment to comprehensive care and a warm, welcoming environment, this dental office has become the go-to destination for individuals seeking top-notch dental treatment. Led by the esteemed Dr. Buntyn and his professional team, Smile Gulf Coast specializes in treating complex dentistry cases, including implants and restoration, while prioritizing the overall health and well-being of their patients.

Stepping into the doors of Smile Gulf Coast, you will immediately sense the genuine compassion and respect that permeates the air. Dr. Buntyn and his team understand that a visit to the dentist can often be anxiety-inducing, which is why they strive to create a soothing and comfortable atmosphere for every patient. From the soothing color scheme to the carefully curated décor, every detail has been meticulously designed to put patients at ease and foster a sense of tranquility.

What truly sets Smile Gulf Coast apart is their dedication to providing adult dentistry treatment that goes beyond just dental care. Dr. Buntyn firmly believes in the importance of collaboration between dental and medical professionals to ensure the overall health of each patient is attended to. By working closely with physicians, he is able to develop a comprehensive

treatment plan that takes into account any underlying medical conditions or concerns, resulting in a truly healthy approach to dental care.

As a practice deeply rooted in the Gulf Coast community, Smile Gulf Coast takes great pride in being a trustworthy and professional dental office. The team understands the significance of building long lasting relationships with their patients, and they go above and beyond to earn their trust. By consistently providing exceptional care and maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, Smile Gulf Coast has gained a reputation as a trusted dental office on the Gulf Coast. Technology plays a crucial role in delivering safe and comfortable dentistry, and Smile Gulf Coast harnesses the power of modern advancements to provide the best possible care. From state-of-the-art equipment to innovative techniques, they stay at the forefront of dental technology to ensure their patients receive the highest standard of treatment. By embracing these advancements, Smile Gulf Coast creates an environment where patients can feel confident in the quality and safety of their dental procedures.

At Smile Gulf Coast, every patient is treated as an individual, and their unique needs and desires are at the forefront of every treatment plan. Dr. Buntyn and

his team understand that dental care is not a one size-fits-all approach, and they take the time to listen and understand the specific goals of each patient.

By fostering open communication and tailoring treatments accordingly, Smile Gulf Coast ensures that every patient achieves the healthy and beautiful smile they deserve.

If you’re searching for a dental practice that offers complete and comfortable care in a warm, welcoming environment, look no further than Smile Gulf Coast. Dr. Buntyn and his dedicated team are ready to welcome you with open arms and provide you with the exceptional dental care you deserve.

Experience the difference at Smile Gulf Coast and let your smile shine brighter than ever before.

L. Randy Buntyn, DMD

Beat the heat

SUMMER IN COASTAL MISSISSIPPI MEANS MORE TIME IN THE SUN. USE THESE TIPS TO STAY SAFE WHILE ENJOYING THE EXTRA HOURS OF SUNSHINE.

1. Learn the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Unfortunately, higher temperatures can lead to some concerning conditions. Here is the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion:

• A heat stroke is a medical emergency and can lead to death. Those affected may not realize that they are experiencing a heat stroke, as they may lose consciousness or become confused. They may experience headaches, feeling hot, nausea and a fast heart rate, but a key factor is that their skin will remain dry and not sweat. Their body temperature will be over 104 degrees. Cool compresses, moving to a cooler area and calling 911 are appropriate actions.

that include zinc or titanium that block both UVA rays (cause of melanoma) and UVB rays.

• Certain medications can make you more susceptible to absorbing the sun’s rays, including heart medications and diuretics (fluid pills).

• Limit your time spent in chlorine. To prevent negative effects from chlorine, be sure to shower after swimming, use moisturizer and consult a dermatologist or a pediatric dermatologist for your child if more severe reactions occur.

BY CHELSEY WINDHAM

• Keep an eye on moles that are changing in color, bleeding or breaking down in the middle.

• As soon as you start to notice concerning skin damage, visit your dermatologist.

Chelsey Windham is a nurse practitioner who cares for patients at Memorial Physician Clinics Lakeview Multispecialty. Reach her at (228) 822-6270.

SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION

• Heat exhaustion can occur when experiencing excess heat. with symptoms including headache, dizziness, sweating, nausea, weakness and a fast pulse. The key difference is this person will be sweating and body temperature will be less than 104 degrees.

• Headache, delirium, confusion

• Tiredness (fatigue)

• Dizziness, weakness, light-headedness

• Dry mouth and/or a dry cough

• High heart rate, but low blood pressure

• Loss of appetite, but maybe craving sugar

• Flushed (red) skin, swollen feet and/or muscle cramps

• Heat intolerance or chills

• Constipation

• Dark-colored pee (urine) — your pee should be a pale, clear color.

Adults and children have similar symptoms, but there should be careful monitoring of small children/ babies who cannot talk for signs of restlessness, irritability and lethargy.

2. Stay hydrated.

The body is comprised of 55-78 percent water. Dehydration can happen quickly, especially in the Mississippi summer heat. Beat dehydration by drinking before you’re thirsty. If you’re concerned that you or a family member are experiencing severe dehydration, visit the closest emergency department.

3. Care for your skin.

• Spend time in the shade as much as possible. Sand and water reflect the sun’s UV rays, and you will continue to absorb rays even under shade.

• Pick a sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher, specifically those

Certain medications can make you more susceptible to absorbing the sun’s rays, including heart medications and diuretics (fluid pills).

PCOS can’t be cured, but it can be managed

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is one of the most common endocrine disorders in the United States. It is diagnosed with the presence of two of three medical components: irregular menstrual cycles, signs of elevated androgens (male-type hormones), such as unwanted hair growth or elevated blood testosterone, and small, cyst-like structures in the ovary.

BY DR. ALISHA WARE

The cause of PCOS is not entirely known. There is a genetic component, and symptoms of PCOS may be worse with obesity, and resolve with weight loss, suggesting that they are brought on by the excess weight.

PCOS often is suspected when women have irregular cycles. The most common type of irregularity is a cycle that comes very infrequently, at no specific time, and may last for a varying number of days. This happens because patients with PCOS do not ovulate on a regular basis. Their bodies get no signal to consistently shed the lining of the uterus once a month, so it continues to grow and thicken until something disrupts it. Then, it sheds in an irregular pattern. Women also may experience abnormal hair growth in areas such as along the jawline or on the chest. Sometimes, acne prompts an evaluation of blood testosterone levels.

Cysts on ovaries due to polycystic ovarian syndrome are small, immature follicles left after an egg fails to ovulate. This is very different from cysts on ovaries that may enlarge and

cause pain or sometimes rupture. When you see a physician for irregular periods, she may test for other conditions, such as hypothyroidism or adrenal hyperplasia. Usually testosterone levels will be checked, and possibly some other ovarian hormone levels. Screening for type 2 diabetes and elevated insulin levels usually are part of the evaluation for PCOS because these patients have an elevated risk for type 2 diabetes later in life.

PCOS symptoms can be managed, but the condition cannot be cured. It is an ongoing irregularity in how hormones are made. Irregular periods usually are managed with birth control pills to give the woman a regular cycle every month. Because part of the syndrome is lack of ovulation, patients may experience fertility issues. Ovulation-inducing medication can be used to help them achieve pregnancy.

Metformin is a diabetes medication frequently prescribed, as these patients have increased resistance to insulin. Insulin resistance causes type 2 diabetes. Use of Metformin helps to make the body more sensitive to insulin. Other medications also may help with symptoms that are related to elevated testosterone. For example, spironolactone may be prescribed for acne or abnormal hair growth. Laser hair removal may also help manage unwanted hair. Weight loss can help make the symptoms of PCOS less severe and sometimes make them regress entirely.

Although PCOS will never disappear, it can be managed successfully throughout a woman’s lifetime. Accurate diagnosis is important so that other risk factors can be addressed. If these symptoms seem familiar to you, you may want to discuss diagnostic tests for PCOS with your healthcare provider.

Dr. Alisha Ware is an obstetrics and gynecology specialist with The Woman’s Clinic PA. Reach her at (228) 864-2752.

FOUR TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR NEXT MILESTONE THE BEST YET

Wow, this is the year I turned the big 4-0! It's one of those milestones that provide an opportunity to reflect on the past decade and look forward with excitement. When we reflect on our past, we tend to have that 20/20 vision. It's in looking to the future that our vision blurs because we may not know what's ahead.

With all the excitement of marking four decades of life, I want to share some insight and offer some guidance for making your next milestone one to remember. Maybe you are turning 18, 21, 30, 50, 60, or even 90 this year. Wherever you find yourself; it's time to celebrate!

Here are four ways to make you next milestone the best one yet:

1: Let go of what others think about you. This one took me a few decades to realize. But if you let other's opinions matter to you, you're living their life, not yours. The sooner you start getting clarity on where you want to go in life, outside noise shouldn’t shift your course. A mentor of mine always said, “If it doesn’t build your belief, your bank account or your business, then it’s a bye-bye.” If you’re following someone who has been where you want to go, that’s a person to ask for advice.

2: Food is fuel. I grew up in the ‘80s and ‘90s, the era of ultra-processed foods and junk. I lived on SpaghettiOs, hot dogs, Lunchables, Dunkaroos and Gushers — and chicken noodle soup with Sprite when I was sick. You don’t know what you don’t know. So much of our food today is ultra-processed and filled with refined sugars. I have learned that if you can’t recreate it with the ingredients you have in your pantry, it’s got to go. You can’t recreate Doritos and Dunkaroos, so ditch the junk and eat whole foods.

You become what you eat, and the best thing you can do for your brain, heart and body is put nourishing foods in your gut. No secret pill, injection, fad diet or shortcut will get you to your best. It’s due to eating whole foods, and limiting processed foods, sugar and alcohol, that I feel better at age 40 then I did at age 30. No matter where you are today, it’s something you can benefit from starting now.

3. Move it or lose it. Any kind of movement, whether it’s a walk outside, strengthening classes, Pilates, yoga, cycle, HIIT, weightlifting

or running, counts. Being stationary is the worst thing you can do for yourself. Walking outside is free, and so are many videos that can help you move your body.

Just 30 minutes a day of movement has many benefits, especially as we age. I credit my profession in the fitness industry for keeping me looking as young as I feel. And the cool thing is, you can make your day one at any age. If you’re 60 and reading this, it’s not too late to start.

Consistency is key, not the gym membership. Motivation is a feeling, and feelings flee. Fitness is one of those things I’ve made non-negotiable.

4. Gratitude. Last, but certainly not least, finding things to be grateful for each day is a game-changer. We get into the hustle and bustle and may forget to be thankful. Life is short and goes by fast, especially when you look back. Focusing on what you must be grateful for helps set the tone for the moments that get a bit hectic.

Taking a moment to slow down and think about, or write down, three things you’re grateful for each day keeps this precious life in perspective. I challenge you to try this practice for 30 days. From the beautiful coast we see daily to the ability to walk, talk or read, there is always something to be grateful for.

Maria S. Barr is a fitness instructor, educator and entrepreneur who serves as brand manager and a master trainer with Barre Intensity. Reach her at maria@barreintensity.com.

I WOULD GIVE THEM A FIVE-STAR RATING

JOHN FOSTER GETS BACK ON HIS FEET WITH HELP FROM ENCOMPASS HEALTH

As soon as he fell, John Foster knew his hip was broken.

The 72-year-old father of two and grandfather of five tripped at his Carriere, Mississippi, home in January, which landed him in the emergency room.

“Two days later, I had the surgery, and the hospital therapy began the following day or two,” Foster recalls. “I was encouraged to consider a rehab facility to help me gain the strength for walking and doing things that I had done prior to the break.”

He arrived at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital, a partner of Memorial Hospital of Gulfport, a week after surgery. The facility is committed to helping patients regain their independence after a life-changing illness or injury.

At the start of his nearly three weeks at Encompass, Foster practiced standing up and sitting down using a wheelchair and a walker. He also participated in morning therapy sessions, when a few people got together to talk, and he gradually regained strength through weightlifting sessions.

“I enjoyed my therapy with Jeremy; he is an awesome physical therapist,” Foster says. “He always encouraged me to take as many steps as I could without pushing me beyond my limit.”

Each day, Foster was encouraged to do more than the day before. As part of his rehabilitation, he practiced his return to real-life scenarios, including entering a car, walking on inclines, peddling a bike and more.

“When you break a bone, it sets you back and it makes you feel like you are learning to walk all over again,” Foster says. “My family came to visit me at the hospital and the rehab facility, and they will continue to help me gain strength and encourage me to get back to doing the things I love.”

As for Encompass, he adds, “I would give them a five-star rating.”

“The professionalism and knowledge of the staff and caretakers was amazing; they knew what to do to help you out as you needed,” Foster raves. “The facility was very clean, and I was amazed at all of the equipment that they had in the physical therapy room.”

Foster has continued to progress at home, where he does exercises to gain strength and walks longer distances each day. Encompass provided him with items he will need as he recovers, including a wheelchair, walker, shoehorn, long-handled sponges and other necessities.

“Just things like taking a shower, you have to now make accommodations to do,” he says. “It is a change, but I am hoping to get beyond all of this and back to my normal activity with minimal changes.”

With its specialized programs, interdisciplinary team approach and advanced technology, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital helps patients like Foster achieve their goals. To learn more, visit www. encompasshealth.com/gulfportrehab or call (228) 822-6965.

NEW COLUMNIST!

Heidi Sexton is a certified health coach through the Dr. Sears Wellness Institute, a six-year Juice Plus affiliate and founder of the wellness blog and newsletter TheHopeBuilder.com. Reach her at heidi@thehopebuilder.com.

BLACK BEAN CHOCOLATE BROWNIES (GLUTEN AND DAIRY FREE)

What you’ll need:

In a food processor combine:

• I (15.5 oz) can black beans drained (I prefer organic)

• 3 eggs

• 3 tablespoons coconut or olive oil

• ¼ cup raw cacao powder

• 1 ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (I like pink Himalayan for the extra minerals)

• I teaspoon vanilla

You put WHAT in your shakes?

I add an unconventional ingredient to my shakes: beans. Yes, cooked beans, along with the “aqua fava” (aka the water the beans were cooked in), give you not just incredible protein, but also fiber to keep your blood sugar stable. Remember, fiber also helps with cravings, willpower and better waste elimination. There are many reasons to make fiber your friend.

I was very skeptical in the beginning; it just seemed wrong. But as it turns out, I was wrong. The beans not only thicken the shake, but they also add an incredible creaminess.

I’d like to take credit for this idea, but the credit belongs to Dr. Alan Christianson, author of “The Thyroid Reset Diet” — a groundbreaking, researchbacked approach to thyroid health that I discovered while trying to help my daughter manage her Hashimoto’s disease and heal her thyroid.

WHAT KIND OF BEANS WORK?

So far, I have used soft white beans like great northern or cannellini beans with much success. You can use canned beans (without salt) or dried ones cooked. Personally, I love to cook dried beans in the instant pot. I may venture into trying black beans for my chocolate protein shakes to see how that works. I have good reason to think it will because I have made a delicious brownie recipe using black beans instead of flour. No one can tell some of the dark chocolate color is from black beans! They have great flavor and consistency.

I also add beans to my favorite vegan protein mix that I drink nearly every morning for sustained energy. Not only is this concoction loaded with fiber (even without the beans), but it’s delicious and adds even more plant goodness into my diet.

or 2/3 cup rapadura, cane juice crystals, brown sugar, maple syrup, honey or any sweetener you like.

Optional:

I teaspoon instant coffee

½ cup chocolate chips (add after everything else is mixed in food processor)

Directions:

Bake in lightly greased 8-by-8-inch pan at 350 degrees for about 3O minutes or until sides pull away from pan. Do not overcook or it will be crumbly and dry. No one will ever suspect there are black beans in this!

• ½ cup dates (about 10-12 pitted large medjool dates)

(adapted from allrecipes.com)

BILOXI OFFICE

970 Tommy Munro Drive, Suite B | Biloxi, MS 39532 Phone: 228-388-4585 | Fax: 228-385-7610

GULFPORT OFFICE

15190 Community Road, Suite 100 | Gulfport, MS 39503 Phone: 228-539-3824 | Fax: 228-539-1572

OCEAN SPRINGS OFFICE

3704 Bienville Blvd., Ste A1 | Ocean Springs, MS 39564 Phone: 228-271-4050

SINUS-CLEAR.COM

Specializing in treating disorders of the ear,nose & throat. Skilled in the latest surgical advancements for head and neck surgery.

EAR, NOSE, & THROAT CARE

BY DR. J. KEITH THOMPSON

Vein care has come a long way

For decades, the standard treatment of varicose veins had been vein stripping. Yes, it sounds rough (and it was as bad as it sounds).

With vein stripping, the affected veins were completely removed with surgery, i.e., “stripped” out. This procedure was performed under general anesthesia in a hospital so, as you might imagine, it required the headache of having to get preoperative labs, x-rays, EKGs, not to mention the hours spent in the hospital the day of surgery and in post-op recovery. After a vein-stripping surgery, it would take weeks to recover before you could get back to being active or returning to work. Thankfully, nowadays, things are different.

For those suffering from swollen, achy legs, skin discoloration and/or leg fatigue and heaviness, alternative varicose vein treatments have emerged and proven successful. These treatments are non-invasive, non-surgical, office-based and require little to no recovery time. For today’s vein patient, these types of treatments definitely are worth exploring.

The latest technique that has been highly successful with minimal discomfort is venous closure. Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), using laser energy, and radiofrequency ablation, using radiofrequency energy, are two methods

whereby heat energy is applied to the affected vein under ultrasound guidance, causing it to seal shut and eventually be reabsorbed naturally back into the body. Doing so stops blood from pooling in faulty veins, allowing it to reroute to healthier veins, and restores proper circulation back to the heart.

Sclerotherapy is another treatment that offers effectiveness, simplicity and no downtime, with most patients resuming normal activities soon after the procedure. A sclerosing solution (liquid and/or foam) is injected into the unsightly varicose or spider vein, causing it to close and eventually fade away. Multiple sessions of sclerotherapy may be required to achieve optimal results.

For larger varicose veins that may not be candidates for endovenous closure (sometimes referred to as “ablation”) or sclerotherapy, microphlebectomy is another minimally invasive, office-based procedure that also uses local anesthesia. A few tiny skin knicks are made along the vein, and specialized instruments are used to gently remove portions of the affected segments. The incisions typically are so small that stitches are not required. Microphlebectomy offers immediate visible results, and patients usually can resume normal activities shortly after treatment.

It’s important to consult with a board-certified vein specialist to determine which treatment options are best suited to each patient’s conditions and needs. This is how you achieve vein care success.

Dr. J. Keith Thompson is medical director of the Vein Institute in Hattiesburg (and D’Iberville- summer 2023) and is a full-time, board-certified vein specialist. Reach him at (601) 336-8368.

Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), using laser energy, and radiofrequency ablation, using radiofrequency energy, are two methods whereby heat energy is applied to the affected vein under ultrasound guidance, causing it to seal shut and eventually be reabsorbed naturally back into the body.

Women are the primary healthcare decision-makers.

They take the lead in selecting providers. Target them where you can reach them.

Diamond Nail Co. specializes in self-care

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

IF YOU GO:

Diamond Nail Co. 5132 Beatline Road, Suite B, Long Beach (228) 871-7172

Monday – Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. diamondnail.co

Sidney and John Tran take pride in helping their clients prepare for some of life’s biggest milestones. As owners of Diamond Nail Co. in Long Beach, the husband-andwife pair have been a part of numerous celebrations, from weddings and graduations to proms and pregnancies.

“We see (patrons) regularly,” Sidney says. “We meet their loved ones; we cheer them on in their successes and we mourn together in their losses. We come to work every day excited to fulfill our purpose of making our clients feel beautiful inside and out.”

The pair’s inspiration comes largely from John’s parents’ years of experience in the industry. He grew up in nail salons, watching his family work hard for their success.

In 2020, an opportunity arose to buy a nail salon John’s hometown, and they took the leap. Although they had just graduated from Ole Miss, they soon headed to beauty school to secure their licenses.

“Together, Sidney and I took a closer look at the nail-care industry,” John says. “Our research gave us a better understanding of the industry and helped us identify potential areas of improvement.”

Their goal, according to Sidney, was to build on the family legacy with innovation and a fresh perspective.

“We wanted to create a great environment for both clients and technicians,” she says. “In our salon, we wanted to provide not only nail services, but also an experience that begins from the moment you walk in the door.”

The salon specializes in all things nails, including manicures, pedicures, acrylics, gel polish and more. The most popular service is Gel-X, next-generation nail extensions that are available in various lengths and shapes. The newest addition to the menu is Dazzle Dry, a hybrid between regular and gel polish that dries within minutes and is ideal for those with sensitivities because it is free from most common allergens.

The Trans believe in starting with consultations so they can make recommendations and tailor their services to each client’s wants and needs.

“We find purpose in creating an environment focused on self-care; we want clients to unwind, rejuvenate and prioritize their well-being through nail treatments,” John says. “In such a fastpaced and disconnected world, our goal is to promote human connection and a renewed sense of inner and outer beauty

that leaves a lasting impression on our clients.”

The pair have pinpointed the three most important aspects of a nail care experience: cleanliness, communication, and great nails, and they say their dedication to these principles sets their business apart. Sidney adds that above all, the Diamond Nail Co. team is passionate about the golden rule: treat others as you want to be treated.

“In every aspect of our business; whether it be providing nail care services, sanitizing tools between clients or selecting the cleanest performance products, we are creating an experience for clients that reflects our own expectations as customers. “

WHAT’S TRENDING?

The top trend Sidney is seeing in the nail care industry is natural nail health.

“Clients desire strong and healthy natural nails …. Strong nails provide a better foundation for long-lasting nail enhancements,” she says. “Natural nail strength is influenced by nutrition, hydration, bodily health, age and genetics. There are several things you can do (or avoid doing) to work towards healthier natural nails.”

BY JASMINE BALL

trends to keep you cool this summer 3

Especially If you live on the Gulf Coast, summertime is the best time. We’re enjoying the warm sun, sandy beaches, cold drinks and more.

No one wants to wear heavy, uncomfortable clothing during the hottest months of the year, so here’s a few summer trends you’re sure to love during this sweltering season.

TUNIC DRESSES

Want a simple, stylish summertime dress that you’ll reach for repeatedly? Tunic dresses are in this year. They typically are flowy, allowing for lots of versatility in how you style them. For instance, you can wear this sweet, breezy Free People Jacquelyn Tunic ($78, www. freepeople.com) as a coverup, top or dress. It’s truly the best thing you can have in your closet this summer. Another adorable option is the Shelbie Tiered Mini Dress by Anthropologie ($98, www.anthropologie.com) which is perfect to throw on and wear anywhere.

CROCHET

This trend truly has taken off. I love crochet and knit pieces because they’re usually open-stitch construction or even made with a cotton blend to provide a much-needed cooling effect. Let yourself feel free while you wear this trend. It’s the perfect addition to your collection of summer staples.

Just like a tunic dress, you can throw crochet or knit items on top of your swimsuit or wear them on their own. The Rhea Open-Stitch Mini Dress by Camila Coelho ($198, www.revolve.com) screams summertime fun. It’s colorful and easy to wear however and wherever you like.

This olive-colored Suzanne Cotton Sweater Tank from Reformation ($98, www.thereformation.com) is ideal for a summer date night. Pair it with linen pants and a sleek sandal — perfect.

PUFF SHOES

A blast from the past is here to influence the future. Slide-on puff shoes are having a moment, so take advantage of this quirky, comfy trend — and don’t hesitate to give yourself some extra height with a platform. Be careful if you have a wider foot, as the straps can be tight.

The Farm Rio Banana Bossa Puffy Platform Sandals ($200, www.anthropologie.com) are arguably the most stylish, comfortable shoes of the season, with their fun, colorful print and thick, puffy straps.

I’m also a fan of Free People’s Fairmount Flared Footbed Sandals ($98, www.freepeople.com). This shoe style is sure to turn heads and amp up any outfit.

228-864-2752

228-864-2752

Jasmine Ball is a Mississippi fashion, beauty and lifestyle blogger. Connect with her via Instagram (Miss_Ball23), her blog site (www.theball-post.com) or by email at theballpost1@gmail.com.

kiehls.com

For body: Australian Gold Instant Bronzer SPF 15 sunscreen.

Delivers protection and an instant glow all in one. The light gel formula absorbs quickly and gives a gentle glow while you are catching some rays. $7.79, www.target.com

Pro tip: For a day at the pool or beach, I always use my moisturizer and then apply my foundation or BB/CC cream. It provides some extra protection and keeps you looking amazing. Add on some gel blush and waterproof mascara, and you will be good to go for whatever fun the day holds.

Are you sunscreen savvy?

BY HEATHER DUBUISSON

Here’s what you should know before slathering on the lotion this summer

If you’re like me, when you’re planning those long summer days outdoors, the first thing you check your bag for is sunscreen. Here are some key things to know to ensure you’re getting the most out of your protection and keeping your skin nice and healthy.

1.  SPF IS NOT SPECIFICALLY THE AMOUNT OF PROTECTION A SUNSCREEN

Believe it or not, SPF, or sun protection factor, doesn’t indicate the base quality of protection you’re getting. What that magic number tells you is how much longer you can be out in the sun without burning if you’re protected. It’s a multiplication factor, so if you wear SPF 2, you can be out twice as If you wear SPF 15, 15 times as long, and so on. Reapplication is the key to getting a summer glow without damaging your skin.

2. NOT ALL SUNSCREENS ARE CREATED EQUAL.

Just because a company has good marketing doesn’t mean it’s the best. Some sunscreens can actually react with your skin to cause you to burn more. If you find you are burning more quickly, try a different brand. Just like a moisturizer or shampoo, everyone needs something different.

3. SUNSCREEN HAS A SHELF LIFE.

To get the most protection from your sunscreen, it must be used within six months of opening. So, ditch last summer’s leftovers, and keep your skin looking amazing.

4. EVERYTHING HAS A REFLECTION FACTOR.

Every surface magnifies the reflection by a certain percentage. Did you know that water has a 10 percent reflection rate versus sand’s 20 percent and snow’s 80 percent? So, whether you’re hitting the beach or the slopes, it’s important to take that into account.

Bottom line, the sun is great for giving us a glow and providing those needed doses of vitamin D. However, too much exposure can cause aging, wrinkles and cancer, so a daily sunscreen regimen is key to maintaining a healthy and youthful appearance.

Heather Dubuisson is owner, wedding specialist, stylist and makeup artist at HD Hair and Makeup. Reach her at heather@hdhairandmakeup.com or follow her on social media at @ hdhairandmakeup.

Count Down to

Bikini Body Ready!

Drop the cover up this summer. Use EMSCULPT NEO so you can hit the beach with confidence!

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WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED?

EMSCULPT NEO builds, tones and defines abs, glutes, biceps, triceps, hamstrings, quads and calves.

CAN I BENEFIT FROM EMSCULPT NEO?

Maintain an active and healthy lifestyle, but aren’t seeing the results you are looking for?

EMSCULPT NEO is a perfect solution to getting those cut abs you have been trying to achieve with diet and exercise. At Health Fit M.D., we will customize the best treatment plan tailored to your individual needs to obtain great results.

If you struggle with stubborn fat deposits and want to sculpt or define your muscles, EMSCULPTING NEO may be the non-invasive treatment for you. Learn more by scheduling a consultation with Health Fit M.D. (228)206-0542

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Get back to skincare basics this summer

Your skin, the largest organ on the body, is exposed daily to environmental factors ranging from UV rays to blue lights to pollution. Left unaddressed, these factors can lead to premature aging and increased risk of skin cancer. However, with proper care and maintenance, your skin can reach its full potential, leaving you feeling beautiful and confident.

Everyone’s skin is different meaning that skin concerns, issues and goals also vary. A basic skincare routine is beneficial for all skin types. The basics of such a routine should include three steps, cleansing, moisturizing and protecting, performed daily in that order.

1. Clean your face twice per day (morning and night) using a gentle cleanser. Pat skin dry.

2. Moisturize your skin after washing, both morning and night, with a moisturizer selected for your skin type. Non-comedogenic moisturizers, which won’t clog your pores, are always a good choice. Yes, moisturizer should be used even on oily and acne-prone skin.

3. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days. The best protection comes from a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Sunscreen should always be the last step in your daily skin care routine and never be skipped.

BY CHRISTINA

Once you have developed a good skincare regimen and made it part of your daily routine, you can start adding in extra steps as needed. Some of the most common “extras” include the use of eye creams, a toner to regulate skin’s PH level, vitamin C to brighten and protect and hyaluronic acid to plump skin and further restore hydration. Whatever skin care routine you implement, consistency is key.

If you are ready to explore options outside of your personal, at-home, skincare routine, a professional facial is a good place to start. A facial is a skin care treatment that cleans, exfoliates and nourishes your skin. When booking a facial, select a treatment that can be customized to your skin, uses products that are beneficial to your skincare journey and performed by a licensed professional. Since your skin sheds and produces new cells monthly, a facial every four to six weeks is ideal.

When you take good care of your skin, you can expect overall improvement in your complexion, resulting in healthier, more youthful looking skin.

Christina Kemp is a licensed aesthetician at Dermatology Specialists of Mississippi/Aqua Medical Spa. Reach her at (228) 207-4775.

is the stuff of dreams The puff

BY CARLA BIASI

This summer, make sure your sleeves are puffed — the bigger and more dramatic, the better. Eyelet and other embellishments can adorn your puffed sleeves; just make sure they reflect your style and personality.

Puff sleeves add femininity and elegance to an outfit, whether dressy or casual.

Ribbed Henley smocked sleeve tee in black, www. chicos.com, $34.99

Super high-rise, wide-leg jeans pair well with puffed sleeves and are a trend worth trying.

Dear John high-rise, wide-leg jeans, Lee Tracy Boutique, Ocean Springs, $108

I loved a stacked wedge with wide-leg jeans. It’s a total throwback to the ‘70s.

Bussola Fola wedges, J. Laurie Shoe Boutique,

A belt with laser-cut design and studs adds flair to a solid top and jeans.

Laser-cut black leather belt, www. whitehouseblackmarket. com, $27.99

With a dramatic sleeve, accessorize simply.

Whispers drop earrings, www.shopchristinaballas. com, $12.95

Carla Biasi is a shopping and styling professional, Find her and learn more at facebook. com/carlabstyle and https:// www.linkedin.com/in/carla-biasi.

As an agent of change within the automotive industry, Amy Lancaster takes pride in being a Top 50 Sales Consultant for BMW of North America in 2021 and 2022. The senior client advisor at Galleria BMW, known as “Automotive Amy” on social media (@itsautomotiveamy), considers people her biggest passion. Here are some of her must-have products for staying put

Spilling her secret

YOUR EYES DESERVE BETTER

Ladies, whether you’re layering on those falsies for a night out or prefer to keep it all-natural, NovaLash Retractable LASHwand is the brush for you. Don’t spend another second bewildered by chaotic, clumpy or tangled lashes; your eyes deserve

KEEPS MY FACE IN PLACE ALL DAY

From demo-drives, to video walk-arounds to showing my clients around the showroom, I’m in and out of our (beloved) Southern climate every day. Maintaining a polished, professional look for 12-plus hours is a must; no one wants melting makeup in their new vehicle. Tarte Double Duty Beauty Base Tape Hydrating Primer is the only product that keeps my face in place for a full day’s work.

MY GO-TO TRAVEL PICK-ME-UP

Mario Badescu Rosewater Facial Spray, aka “beauty in a bottle,” is perfect for any occasion or adventure. Just because those layovers are getting longer doesn’t mean you have to look like it. It’s also a great to use as a makeup-setting spray, and the rosewater scent will make you feel practically perfect in every

BEST LIP CONDITIONER, HANDS DOWN

I love Aquaphor Lip Repair all year round in every season; it’s the best lip conditioner, hands down. The number-one reason is that it’s never sticky. I also love the look of it on top of a matte lip color. Don’t forget the Aquaphor Lip Protectant + Sunscreen with SPF 30 for boat days.

CHANGED MY LIFE IN JUST FOUR MINUTES

My beautiful blondes, this one’s for you: K18 Peptide Molecular Hair Mask. This leave-in treatment changed my life forever in just four minutes. Once every few weeks, I ditch my conditioner for this little gem, which reverses the damage to our golden manes caused by heat, chemicals and color treatments by restoring strength, smoothness and softness. It’s highly concentrated, so “just a dab will do ya,” and the scent is incredible. It really makes me feel like I’m doing something special for my

THE ONLY DRY SHAMPOO I’LL USE

Not only does Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo actually clean your hair, but there’s no residue left behind. Even if no one else can see or feel it, it’s still there, and that’s not a good vibe. This is the ONLY dry shampoo in my opinion.

THE HAIRSPRAY MVP

Kenra Hairspray #13 is the MVP of hairspray, no matter what you’re styling — period. I always keep a mini travel size with me.

SAY BYE-BYE TO YOUR SCRATCHY EYELINER

Fake Awake Eye Highlight by Tarte is soft, blends well and looks ahh-mazing on the water line if you want that extra “pop.” Say bye-bye to the scratchy, 60’s-mod, white-colored pencil we used to call eyeliner. There’s a new girl in town.

How to pick the perfect venue for your big day

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Successful wedding planning always starts with the basics: who, what, when, where and how much. The “who,” of course, is your spouse-to-be and the loved ones with whom you want to share your big day. “What” is the type and size of celebration you wish to have. “When” would be the date you choose, and “how much,” of course, refers to your wedding budget.

So that leaves the “where,” which is among the most important decisions a couple will make in the run-up to their nuptials. The setting you pick has a huge bearing on how the day feels and flows – and how big of a bite it takes out of your budget.

However, choosing the right location doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here are some tips to consider while searching for your wedding venue:

1. COST IS KING

TheKnot.com found that venues are usually the biggest investment a couple makes in their wedding, accounting for about 37 percent of their budget on average. Don’t start scouting locations without a firm idea of what you can spend. If a spot you love is slightly out of your price range, consider that off-season or Sunday weddings often can be less expensive, and many venues include services like food, tables and chairs, etc., that can cut costs elsewhere.

2. MATCH YOUR VIBE

Early in the wedding process, a bride and groom should decide what kind of wedding they want; do they imagine a small, intimate gathering, a big, blown-out affair or something in-between? Do they want guests to be touched by sweet simplicity, or awed by Hollywood-style grandeur? Whatever theme or vibe they’re going for, the venue they pick will go a long way toward creating it. The setting of

your big day says a lot about who you are as a couple, so select a site that fits your vision.

3. SIZE MATTERS

Not only do you need to set a budget before picking a venue, you also should establish at least a rough guest count. It’s important to ensure the location is the appropriate size to accommodate everyone on your invite list comfortably. A site that’s too small can leave guests feeling cramped, and one that’s too large means you’re paying for space you don’t need – not to mention making the space seem empty. Like Goldilocks, find the one that’s just right.

4. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Let’s say you love everything about a prospective venue. The price is right, the ambiance is ideal and you’re ready to put down a deposit.

Not so fast. There’s still one last thing to consider, and it’s a big one: location. How far is the ceremony site from the reception if they’re not in the same place? How does the distance factor into your wedding day timeline? How far will guests have to travel, and can they find sufficient accommodations when they arrive? If guests have any free time on your big day, will they find things to do nearby? Are the surroundings safe? Be mindful of all these factors before settling on a location.

Experts suggest choosing a venue nine months to a year before your wedding. The less flexible your date is, the further in advance they recommend starting your search. It may take a couple of months or more to find the perfect site, but don’t despair. Entering the process with a solid plan will help ensure you get the venue of your dreams.

Photography by: Jessie Newton Photography, Justin Mitchell, and Julie Holmes

On the pickleball court, all are welcome

Country’s

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Like so many pickleball enthusiasts, Deonne Linenberger tried the sport and quickly got hooked. She and her husband, Tom, along with her brother and sister-in-law, first learned the game in December of 2014. They played with a group from Pass Christian for a few weeks until they’d set up a court at the Donal Snyder Community Center in Biloxi.

“Pickleball looked like a fun way to get aerobic exercise without the boredom of walking on a treadmill,” she recalls. Today, the Linenbergers are volunteer pickleball coordinators for Biloxi and

Gulfport, as well as USA Pickleball Ambassadors for Gulf Coast Mississippi. The sport has exploded in popularity nationwide, with celebrities like LeBron James and Tom Brady among the millions of fans joining the craze across the U.S.

Linenberger credits locals Ron Feldman and his wife, Anita, with introducing pickleball to Pass Christian. Now, there are more than 800 players across the three-county coastal area. The sport gained even more traction locally when the Mississippi Coast Coliseum & Convention Center hosted the American Pickleball Tour in April.

PICKLEBALL BY THE NUMBERS

the estimated number of pickleball players in the United States in 2022, according to the Association of Pickleball Professionals

Percentage that pickleball participation has grown on average of over the last three years, according to

The number of years pickleball as ranked as the fastestrowing sport in America

18-34: The age range that onstitutes the largest ercentage of pickleball layers (28.8 percent nationwide)

10,320: The current number of ickleball courts in the United States

$152.8 million: The size of the pickleball paddle market size in 2021, which is forecasted to grow at 7.7 percent (compound annual rowth rate) through 2028

: Percentage of pickleball layers who are women

The game, which Linenberger likens to “a big game of ping pong on a badminton-sized court,” is played with a 34-inch net, smooth paddles and a whiffle ball. Players can compete as singles or doubles, and the sport can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors.

“Pickleball is unique because it is such a social sport,” Linenberger says. “All are made to feel welcome when they come to a pickleball court.”

Although people of all ages, sizes and skill levels are flocking to the game, the 2022 Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) Single Sport Report on Pickleball notes that the average age of those who play regularly

is 48. The number of U.S. pickleball players reached 36.5 million this year, and 40 percent of participants are women.

A smaller court means less running, and thus less wear and tear on joints, making it an attractive way for older people to stay in shape. Racket sports like pickleball also promote balance and boost the cardiovascular system, which helps head off age-related concerns such as hypertension, stroke and heart attack providing another benefit for seniors.

Regardless of age, a good pickleball player, according to Linenberger, is someone who can develop hand-eye coordination, is in reasonably good shape, has a desire to learn something new and doesn’t take herself or the sport too seriously. The sport has grown so rapidly, she adds, because its affordable, easy to learn and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It’s not uncommon for Linenberger to see multiple generations of a family on the court engaging in some friendly competition.

“Pickleball provides not only a place to smile and have fun, but it is also a healthy and active activity that improves lives mentally and physically,” Linenberger says. “Over the years, we have heard so many heartwarming stories from players about how pickleball has saved their lives from a depressing time they were going through, helped them lose weight or even introduced them to a new romance.”

To find information on locations where pickleball is available locally, with addresses and times of scheduled play, visit msgulfcoastpickleball.com.

fastest-growing sport also is a hit on the Coast

Ocean Springs pickleball diehards engage in some friendly competition at Inner Harbor Park

Carol Jo Mullins is one of the of the regular players at Lobouy Senior Center

Fire up the grill, it’s kebob season!

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

CAJUN BUTTER SHRIMP & SAUSAGE SKEWERS

WHAT YOU’LL NEED:

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 andouille sausages, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds

• 1/4 cup melted butter

1 tbsp. lemon zest

Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)

• 1 tbsp. freshly chopped thyme

1 tsp. smoked paprika

• 1 tsp. garlic powder

• 1/4 tsp. cayenne

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tbsp. freshly chopped parsley, for garnish

DIRECTIONS:

What’s better on a hot summer night than a barbecue? We’ve all been looking forward to moving our meals outdoors and savoring the goodness only a grill can achieve.

Hamburgers and hotdogs are seasonal staples, and they’re favorites for a reason. But what if you’re craving something with a bit more kick, or you’re just tired of the same old, same old?

Shish kebob offers a colorful, flavorful alternative to the standard cookout fare. The options are virtually limitless, from beef and peppers to swordfish and pineapple. And did we mention kebobs are relatively healthy, offering a tasty source of protein without added fat? Factor in the fruits and veggies, and you have a fairly nutritious meal.

If you plan to make kebobs this season (and you should), here are a few helpful tips:

• Make sure you cut all the pieces into

similar shapes and sizes so they cook evenly.

• Account for the different cooking times and temperatures of your ingredients, and separate accordingly. For instance, you’ll overcook your veggies if you keep them on the grill for the same amount of time as your steak. If you want skewers that include both meat and vegetables, make sure to choose items with roughly the same cooking needs.

• Flip your skewers halfway through the cook time.

• Letting any meat rest after grilling is an important step for retaining juices, and kebobs are no different. Set aside your skewers for about 10 minutes once they’re done.

Need a recipe to try? How about one that’s packed with Gulf Coast flavor.

1. Soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes. When ready to cook, drain and dry skewers.

2. Thread top of shrimp, then sausage, then tail of shrimp onto skewers. Repeat until all shrimp and sausage is used.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk to combine butter, lemon zest, lemon juice, thyme and spices. Season with salt and pepper, then brush all over skewers.

4. Heat grill or grill pan to medium. Add skewers and cook until shrimp is opaque and sausage is warmed through, about three minutes per side. Garnish with parsley and serve.

*from delish.com

Chef Joe Castoro and Michelle Beauregard, Owners