Gulf Coast Woman March 2022

OMAN

COMPLIMENTARY

GULF COAST

MARCH 2022

Your health: If not now, when?

Private Schools Guide It's festival season!

HOME edition Trends, tips & ideas you'll love!

SPONSORED BY

Dr. Michael J. Christie and Dr. Aimee R. Watts Center for OB/GYN BOARD CERTIFIED OB/GYNS

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

Aimee R. Watts M.D., F.A.C.O.G.

Cindy Barfield F.N.P.-B.C. Board Certified Nurse Practitioner

Leanne Virgilio F.N.P.-C. Board Certified Nurse Practitioner

Dr. Watts has 12 years of experience as an OB/GYN in Mississippi.

Quality care one patient at a time.

AESTHETIC SERVICES AVAILABLE MAIN OFFICE OCEAN SPRINGS

(228) 818-0025

2113 Government St., Suite I-4 2

BILOXI OFFICE

(228) 374-3749

147 Reynoir St., Suite 102

March 2022 www .michaelchristiemd.com

Scan this QR Code to be taken straight to our Facebook Page

Never a love so true.

I never knew I could love anyone as much as I do you.

- Until forever this will be true. www.gcwmultimedia.com

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228-863-3699 • pavandbroome.com

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brandi Stage

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

FOUNDER

Dr. Angela Bruni

Farrah Underwood

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dorothy P. Wilson

OMAN GULF COA ST

COMPLIMENTARY

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

MARCH 2022

Your health: If not now, when?

Sherry Moxley Seaman

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER Crystal Scretching

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER

Private Schools Guide It's festival season!

ME Otion Hedi

ON THE COVER Photographer: Brandi Stage Portraiture Makeup and hair: Brittney M. Johnson Location: Brandi Stage Portraiture

ideas you'll love!

Trends, tips &

SPONSORED

BY

COVER SUBJECT Martha Whitney Butler

Jennifer Gentile

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jasmine Ball Carla Biasi Karol Brandt Dr. Peter Casano Tracy Daniel-Hardy Chris Dearman Julie Egressy Kaila Moran Griffith Janera Harvey Dr. Sidra Khalid Robin Killeen Holly Lemoine-Raymond

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March 2022

Dr. Philip L. Levin Amber Lord LaShaundra McCarty Jennifer Miller Celeste O’Keefe Lauren Riley Kathy Rogers Royal Spragio Jill Stapleton Angelyn Treutel Zeringue Darlene Underwood

CONTACT US

38 Pass Road, Suite A, Gulfport, MS 39507 (228) 539-2422 CustomerService@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com © 2021 Gulf Coast Woman is published 12 times per year and is available free of charge. We encourage your comments, suggestions and submissions, however, we unsolicited documents or manuscripts. All material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

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MARCH IS

COLORECTAL CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

DR. STEPHANIE FUSSELL

Colorectal cancer is the DR. OLIVIA HIGHTOWER

THIRD MOST COMMON CANCER

diagnosed in both men and women in the U.S. We at Hematology Oncology Partners encourage you to see your primary care physician to discuss the best colon screening for you.

DR. ALLISON WALL

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AT ALL FIVE LOCATIONS GULFPORT 1340 Broad Avenue | Suite 330 BILOXI 920 Tommy Munro Drive BILOXI 147 Reynoir Street | Suite 204 BAY ST. LOUIS 835 Thames Avenue WIGGINS 1440 E. Central Avenue

228-575-1234

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5

contents THIS EDITION HOME & FAMILY / 27 PRIVATE SCHOOLS / 82 STYLE / 93 WEDDINGS / 106 HEALTH / 111 SUCCESS / 127 FOOD & FUN / 139 FILL YOUR CUP / 145

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March 2022

PAINTING WITH PURPOSE Inspired by nature and poetry, new gallery owner Denise Hopkins shares the power of art with others / page 98

Why weight?

Losing pounds, achieving dreams.

Rebecca Nash found herself at a crossroads two years ago, unable to attend her nursing classes because she physically could not make it up the stairs.

At that time, Rebecca weighed 410 pounds.

Realizing that her weight was keeping her from her dream career and her dreams of one day starting a family, Rebecca met with Singing River Bariatric Surgeon, Dr. William “Pete” Avara and changed the entire course of her life.

Just one year after her gastric sleeve procedure, Rebecca has lost 200 lbs, is working as a Critical Care Nurse, engaged, and well on her way to living her dreams.

Rebecca Nash Critical Care Nurse

Lost 200 pounds

Why Weight?

Start your weight loss story today.

Singing River Weight Loss Center Gulfport • Ocean Springs 228-872-7277

SingingRiverHealthSystem.com

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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More than

3,500

Advanced Robotic Assisted Surgeries Performed

Memorial Robotic Surgery Team

Front row: Julia Terrell, RN, Circulator; Chandler Claxton, Surgical Technologist; Cindy Powell, RN, Robotic Coordinator Back row: Abby Dean, RN, Circulator; Eva Childres, Surgical Technologist; Allyson Walls, RN, Circulator; Briana Beckham, Surgical Technologist; Gayle Camp, RN Circulator

Surgeons Credentialed in Robotic Surgery (Not Pictured) Scott Blackburn, DO

Jacob Jorns, MD

John Pappas, MD

Joanna Trus, MD

Kristine Carter, MD

Thomas Lehman, MD

Trey Rimmer, MD

Alisha Ware, MD

General Surgeon General Surgeon

Donielle Daigle, MD

Gynecologist

Shahira Hanna, MD March 2022 8 Gynecologist

Urologic Surgeon Gynecologist

T. Paul Mace, MD General Surgeon

Michael McKay, MD Gynecologist

Gynecologist

General Surgeon

Jason Shannon, MD Urologic Surgeon

Gynecologist Gynecologist

Champ Weeks, MD Urologic Surgeon

E xperience C ounts And you can count on Memorial!

To learn the benefits & the many procedures we offer, visit

WeAreMemorial.com/surgical-services

Front row: Champ Weeks, MD, Robotic Surgery Medical Director; Pam Thigpen, Surgical Technologist; Jeannie Bates-Bloesser, RN, Circulator Back row: Alexa Elliott, Surgical Technologist; Katie Malley, Surgical Technologist; Carolyn Frair, Surgical Technologist; Alexandra Swilley, Surgical Technologist; Faith Davis, Surgical Technologist; Sylvia Trieu, Surgical Technologist; and the Anesthesia Team (not pictured)

WeAreMemorial.com

SURGICAL SERVICES www.gcwmultimedia.com

9

SAVE THE

date!

Here’s what’s happening on the Coast this month: Gulf Coast Carnival Association Mardi Gras Parade

restaurants sharing their favorite brews, bacon and chocolate dishes. Tickets are $50 ($75 for a VIP pass). Learn more at www. gcbeerbaconfest.com/.

Grillin’ on the Green

March 1, 1 p.m.

Downtown Biloxi Join GCCA as the sovereign rulers of Mardi Gras lead the way in the biggest parade of the Mardi Gras season — leaving behind a little sparkle in the streets of downtown Biloxi. For more info: www.msgcca. org/parade

Krewe of Gemini Fat Tuesday Night Parade

March 12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; barbecue cookoff awards at 2:45 p.m.

Biloxi Town Green A Top-Twenty Event in the Southeast, as selected by the Southeast Tourism Society, Grillin’ on the Green features a barbecue cookoff, arts and crafts vendors, $5 food plates, a children’s play area, live entertainment all day and more. Admission is free. Visit mainstreetbiloxi.com/grillin-onthe-green/ to learn more.

Hibernia Marching Society St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Tuesday, March 1, 5:30 p.m.

Downtown Gulfport Once again, the Krewe of Gemini will spread Mardi Gras spirit in downtown Gulfport. For more info: kreweofgeminigulfport@gmail.com

34th Annual Arbor Day Run/ Walk/Roll for Disability Awareness

March 12, 2 p.m.

Downtown Biloxi This colorful parade will feature bands, flag bearers, Colleen Celeste O’Keefe and Grand Marshal Keith Crosby and floats tossing Irish-themed trinkets. The festivities start in front of the Biloxi Yacht Club on Highway 90 and proceed through downtown.

Gulf Coast Beer and Bacon Fest (Plus Chocolate)

Gulf Coast Oyster Cookoff and Festival

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March 2022

Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra – Made in America

March 19, 7:30 p.m.

Immersive Media Performing Arts Center, Gulfport GCSO will welcome cellist Bion Tsang and feature selections including Aaron Copeland’s suite from “Billy the Kid,” Jennifer Higdon’s “Blue Cathedral” and Antonín Dvořák’s “Cello Concerto in B Minor.” Tickets range from $47.50 to $67.50. Visit www. gulfcoastsymphony.net to purchase or learn more.

Annual Spring Arts Festival

March 5, 8 a.m. registration; 9 a.m.

5K race starts; 9:45 a.m. 1-mile and ¼-mile ability challenge start Point Cadet Plaza, Biloxi Join the Disability Connection and Gulf Coast Running Club for this fun event promoting healthy lifestyles and disability awareness.

Day-of registration is $25 per person. Learn more at http:// disabilityconnection.org/.

March 5, 6-10 p.m.

The Hollywood Warehouse, Gulfport There will be over 40 breweries and

The cookoff and festival will feature live entertainment, arts and crafts, ice-cold beverages, oyster sampling and more. For additional info: http://www. gulfcoastoystercookoff.com/.

March 19, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; oyster cookoff competition, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Corvette car show registration at 9 a.m.

March 26-27; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

This 29th annual event will feature pieces in various media by more than 100 artists, crafters and plant vendors, including paintings, pottery, jewelry and more. Festival activities include artists’ demonstrations, lectures and more. For more info: Contact the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce – Main Street – Tourism Bureau at (228) 875-4424, visit www.oceanspringschamber.com or www.oceanspringschamber. com/springartsfestival.com.

Join the Casino Loyalty Program voted “Best Players Club” by Mississippi Gulf Coast Observer.

Pearl Rewards provides our Scarlet Pearl guests with amazing benefits including unlimited comp dollars, discounts, extended payback on casino credit and more!

Scan the QR code with your phone or go to ScarletPearlCasino.com for full list of tier benefits.

9380 Central Avenue • D’Iberville, MS 39540 888–752–9772 • ScarletPearlVIP.com • Must be 21 or older. Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort reserves all rights. See Pearl Rewards Club for promotional rules and details. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

11

DATA DRIVES YOUR FUTURE. find out more about data analytics technology

at mississippi gulf coaSt community college.

MGCCC ANSWER CENTER: 228-896-2536 • QUESTIONS@MGCCC.EDU 12

GoMarch Big.2022 Go Gulf Coast.

@mgcccfuturebulldogs on Facebook!

OPTIONS & OPPORTUNITIES

MGCCC’s Data Analytics Technology program offers versatility & top-notch instruction Imagine a classroom with students attending remotely, in person and asynchronously where they can watch classroom lectures live or later on video. In this class, students have the option of attending in person, remotely or completely online, according to their lifestyle and needs.

“One of the greatest things about the Data Analytics program at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is that students have all of these options available to them. Whether they work all day and need a fully online class or just prefer the remote classroom experience because they have children at home or don’t have gas money to drive to class, they can take classes in this program,” said Robin Hayes, program instructor.

Student Trevor Pelaez of D’Iberville prefers to take his classes in person. “I feel like I get more out of it when I am in the actual classroom,” he said. “I like having the option to view from home and participate that way or even watch the video later. In fact, watching the video of the lecture later often helps me even when I was in the class.”

“This really is a win-win situation for students,” Hayes said. “I can tell that they are all excited to participate and they enjoy the choices.”

Data analytics is the process of examining data sets to find trends and draw conclusions about the information they contain with the aid of specialized systems and software.

“Data analytics initiatives can help businesses increase revenue, improve operational efficiency, optimize marketing campaigns and bolster customer service efforts,” Hayes said. “Analytics also enable organizations to respond quickly Data Analytics Technology instructor Robin Hayes with student Trevor Pelaez

to emerging market trends and gain a competitive edge over business rivals.”

Melissa Beebe, a graduate of the program who works at Keesler Federal Credit Union (KFCU), said the program was perfect for the direction she wanted to go in. “I am the marketing data manager, and I mainly work with marketing trends and customer satisfaction,” she said. “I love what I do.”

Beebe majored in Data Analytics and Programming at MGCCC, and after receiving her associate degree, she went to Mississippi University for Women to receive a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in information systems.

“The data analytics program at MGCCC prepared me for my continued education and my current job. I use things I learned in that program every day.”

At KFCU, Beebe also oversees interns from MGCCC’s Data Analytics program. “We get interns through the iWork program, and they have really worked out great. I look forward to the new interns starting to see what they are really strong in and what gets them excited about the field.”

She said the interns discuss their classes while with her, and they all love to have options for taking classes. “The fact that the program overlaps with programming and coding, allowing students to learn so much in those areas as well, will help them in the long run. Couple that with the versatility of the classes allowing them to take classes online, virtually and in the traditional setting, and you can see why it’s a great choice. If I had to choose over, I’d go back as a student to MGCCC.”

For more information on data analytics technology at mgccc, scan the QR code or visit mgccc.edu/data-analytics

www.gcwmultimedia.com

13

Celebrating

Years!

• Private Duty Nursing

• ID/DD Waiver Provider

• Pediatric Nursing

• Elderly and Disabled Waiver Provider

• Skilled Nursing Care

• EPSDT Provider

• Assisted Daily Living Care

• In-Facility Care

• Homemakers

• Worker’s Comp

• Companion Care

• Insurance Cases

• Post-Operative Care

• Supplemental Staffing

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

228-385-9196

WWW.NURSINGMGT.COM 14

March 2022

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

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

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15

CELEBRATING WOMEN’S DAY

Transportation boss Tangela Hills is breaking the bias

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

A male-dominated industry might intimidate some females — but not Tangela Hills.

“I love to break barriers,” says the owner and CEO of L. Hookfin Transport, based in Pass Christian. “I love to see women in industries they once weren’t welcomed in.”

The determined entrepreneur embodies the spirit of International Women’s Day, which will be celebrated on March 8.

The observance honors women’s social, economic, cultural and political achievements and also serves as a call to action, offering an opportunity to rally and raise awareness for gender equality.

Roughly 80 percent of workers in the transportation sector are men, according to Forbes. Behind this statistic, Hills says, is the belief that women were not suited for a field associated with hard labor and dangerous conditions.

“It goes back to when a child was taught that boys play with trucks and girls play with dollhouses,” she adds. “That domestic behavior is one of the reasons inequalities exist. Eventually, women will work equally in this industry outside of the administrative aspects of it.”

As a trailblazer, Hills has followed the example of her mother, Priscilla Hills, and her late grandmother, Wille Bell Hookfin, who worked multiple jobs to support their families. Her aunt, Tina Woods, was the first woman Hills knew who owned her own business.

“To witness that let me know it was achievable for women of color,” she says.

Hills has worked in the transportation industry for over four years, starting as a delivery driver for restaurants and grocery stores. From there, she started delivering for a service partner of Amazon and later became operational assistant manager.

Her company, named after her father, specializes in moving general freight from business to business. During the pandemic, she noticed that the transportation field was not affected by lockdowns. In fact, demand increased significantly, and Hills saw a green light to launch her business.

#BREAKTHEBIAS

International Women’s Day celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and marks a call to action for accelerating gender parity.

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March 2022

International Women’s Day, which falls on March 8, honors women’s achievements, raises awareness against bias and spurs action toward equality. The theme for 2022 is #breakthebias, which reflects the goal of a world that is free of bias, stereotypes and discrimination — a world that’s diverse, equitable and inclusive and where differences are celebrated and valued.

To show your support, cross your arms to strike the IWD 2022 pose and share your #BreakTheBias image, video, resources, presentation or articles on social media using #IWD2022 #BreakTheBias. To learn more, visit www. internationalwomensday.com.

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S creening saves lives ! #get screened #sc reeningsaveslives

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Photo graphy

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Living

HELPING YOU MAKE BETTER CHOICES

KAROL BRANDT

DR. PHILIP LEVIN

HEALTH

HEALTH

Experts

DR. PAMELA TULI HEALTH

DR. HAMZA MINHAS

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL BIENVILLE ORTHOPAEDIC HEALTH SPECIALISTS HEALTH

KATHY ROGERS SUCCESS AND MONEY

ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE SUCCESS AND MONEY

HEALTH

HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER (ERIN GIBSON) HOME AND FAMILY

KATHY BROWN VAN ZUTPHEN HOME AND FAMILY

DR. SIDRA KHALID HEALTH

CHRIS DEARMAN FOOD AND FUN

NAVIGATOR CREDIT UNION LASHAUNDRA SUCCESS AND MONEY MCCARTY SUCCESS AND MONEY

DR. TRACY DANIEL-HARDY ARIEL CHAMBERLAIN HOME AND FAMILY HOME AND FAMILY

MELANIE JONES HOME AND FAMILY

*PLEASE NOTE: WHILE CONTRIBUTORS LISTED MAY CONTRIBUTE REGULARLY, THEY DO NOT ALL NECESSARILY SUBMIT EVERY MONTH.

JASMINE BALL STYLE AND BEAUTY

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March 2022

LAUREN RILEY STYLE AND BEAUTY

ROBIN KILLEEN FILL YOUR CUP

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MAKING BUYING AND SELLING

SIMPLE

Andrew Geotes, Broker/Owner 228.365.5506 | MSPropertyPro@Gmail.com Brittany Geotes, Brk. Assoc./Owner 228.263.5424 | BrittanyGBroker@Gmail.com NextHome Simplicity 228.357.5888 | NHSimplicity.com

DON’T BE AFRAID OF BEING IN A MULTIPLE OFFER SITUATION In today’s market, as a buyer, you will most likely encounter a time when you get stuck in a “bidding war” for the home that you want. With a quality REALTOR, you should have been educated as to what would be the best possible offer that you can make to win the house.

A FEW TIPS: Be prepared to JUMP fast. Make sure you have your pre-approval letter or Proof of Funds letter with your REALTOR BEFORE you start looking. In this fast-paced market, sellers will be more likely to take your offer over something higher if they have your letter attached with your offer.

If you need the Seller to help you pay for your share of the closing costs, make sure you look at homes around $10,000 less than your loan amount.

This way you will have a “buffer zone” to be able to add in the closing costs AND be able to offer list price for the seller. Most homes are going for over list price, so you will need that buffer zone to be competitive.

You may find yourself in a situation where you offer more than you think the house will even appraise for. If you do this, have your REALTOR put in a special provision that you are willing to pay a certain amount over the appraisal price. Don’t be afraid of doing this. Yes, it does not always make sense, but until we get more inventory, if you want to take advantage of the lowest interest rates ever when you find your dream home, it may just be the thing that convinces the seller to pick your offer over others.

If you would like more information on these types of strategies to help you in successfully purchasing the home of your dreams, or for help with any of your real estate needs, please call or text. I’m always happy to help.

Deborah Sharp, Realtor®/Broker Associate

NextHome Simplicity Office: 228.357.5888 | Mobile: 228.337.1449 NextHomeDeborah@gmail.com

www.gcwmultimedia.com

19

Head to Bob Boyte Honda

The Gulf Coast’s Newest Honda Dealer!

Did you know that Bob Boyte Honda is the only consecutive President’s Award winner since 2005? Swing by our state-of-the-art facilities in Central Mississippi, or our latest location on the Mississippi Gulf Coast to learn why!

You’ll be able to take advantage of our new and pre-owned inventory deals, superior detail crew, and our award-winning service department, which offers a complimentary wash and vacuum with every service. And at Bob Boyte Honda, we use only authentic Honda parts and genuine Honda-trained technicians. Give us a visit, and let’s get you a deal!

Visit us online at bobboytehondamosspoint.com.

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March 2022

Ti Sento Milano

Downtown Ocean Springs www.gcwmultimedia.com

wpsheltonjewelers.com

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MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST

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BILOXI: 2554 Beach Blvd., Suite A | OCEAN SPRINGS: 1216 Government St. PASS CHRISTIAN: 300 Davis Ave., Suite 101A 22

March 2022

W W W. C M G F I . C O M

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

Sherry Owen, CRS GRI, SFR, ABR BROKER/OWNER owensherryl@aol.com | 228.760.2815 CELL

MLS #4000923 | 208 ST. CHARLES STREET, BAY SAINT LOUIS, MS 39520 | $1,250,000 This is truly a one-of-a-kind home with a Historical Flare! Renovated/restored in 2009 to its former glory with all new everything while keeping its historic feel! With antique Heart Pine Flooring (Ceramic tile in master bath & Travertine tile in guest bath), Stain Glass windows, vaulted ceilings, solid wood walls made of antique wood, solid beams. Open new kitchen with cherry cabinets, granite counter tops. Fireplace in living room, heated and cooled attic for storage, loft with a custom lift for luggage, with beautiful open windows overlooking heated hot tub and heated pool (with motorized cover), 1 outside fireplace with wet bar (with beverage cooler & commercial ice maker). Winding porch, detached 1 bedroom apartment, man cave below with a/c, bathroom opens to the Pool area, covered RV carport that has all hookups needed but serves also as an entertaining area overlooking a park-like setting with large Magnolia and plush gardens with fire pit and fountain area! Fully irrigated gardens and lawns. 2 blocks from the beach!

MLS# 3378901 | 510 BEACH BOULEVARD, BILOXI, MS 39530 | $1,495,000 This exquisite custom Beachfront home w/ beautiful, unobstructed gulf view has riparian/littoral rights. Built in ‘07 the main floor includes 3889 SF with an elevation of 23 feet.

The foundation is concrete and steel pilings. There are 3 bedrooms, 5 full baths and 1/2 bath, large living room with fireplace, dining room, lovely entry foyer, music room, custom draperies & extensive millwork. The gourmet kitchen has top of the line appliances, Sub Zero refrigerator, beautiful granite countertops, island with gas cooktop, built in china cabinet and a large breakfast room. The Master Suite has a sitting area, two full baths and an amazing custom closet. Other features include Brazilian cherry floors, 12’ ceilings, elevator, triple garage, security system with cameras, swimming pool, Gazebo, & generator. Within walking distance of restaurants, casinos, & shops.

Unfinished 3rd floor for additional bedrooms.

Tiffany Dymond Broker Associate 228.669.1767

Danielle Owen Broker Associate 228.806.9822

Steven Ladner Broker Associate 228.669.3720

Krista Goodhart Realtor 228.617.6417

Janet Lawrence Realtor 228.860.5460

Caroline Hebert Realtor 228.323.1603

Jennifer Davi Realtor 228.224.5337

James Musgrove Chris Martin Amy Olsen www.gcwmultimedia.com Realtor Realtor Broker Associate 228.234.2001 601.467.7890 228.697.6609

Cathy Gill

23 Realtor

228.860.2645

Warm, wise warrior Friends remember Yeager’s huge heart

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

From the day she met Andrea Yeager at a Women of Wisdom luncheon, Robin Killeen recognized her extraordinary gifts.

“My first impression was this red-haired beauty was full of charisma and passion,” recalls Killeen, who founded WOW and remained Yeager’s friend for 22 years.

Yeager was the Sun Herald’s managing editor for five years and served as a longtime food columnist, in addition to stints as a community relations manager for Barnes and Noble and a beauty consultant with Mary Kay. She also contributed numerous recipes to Gulf Coast Woman — sharing not only how to make many of her favorite dishes, but also the treasured family stories and memories associated with each one.

Since her death on Jan. 17 at the age of 70, the community has been grieving the loss of her joyful smile and gentle spirit.

She is survived by her daughter, Elyssa Yeager; and her granddaughter, Lillian Yeager, and she was predeceased by her husband and high school sweetheart, Allen Yeager.

The last time Killeen saw her friend was at a WOW Leadership potluck on Dec. 8, when Yeager and Lillian stayed behind to help build a gingerbread house for a contest, in which WOW took fourth place.

“This was the last thing we did together,” Killeen says.

“Andrea left a lasting mark on our lives, and she will be in our hearts forever.”

In a blog post on his website, sportswriter and columnist Jim Mashek reflected on how Yeager had put him at ease the day he’d interviewed at the Sun Herald.

“Andrea Yeager was my biggest fan in the building, and the feeling was mutual,” Mashek recalls. “Her door was always open; she always had an open mind. She loved newspapers as much as I did, and her understated personality was more than a little welcome.

“She was nobody’s tyrant. But it was her newsroom.”

A “Texas girl through and through” who’d hailed from Baytown — where Mashek got his start in the newspaper business — Yeager made a huge impression on him with her kindness and authenticity. When he learned of her passing from Facebook, the news hit “like the proverbial ton of bricks.”

“My jaw dropped in disbelief. Teared up a little bit, wistful that I never got to meet her granddaughter, Lillian.” he writes of the “warm-but-wise editor with a heart of gold.”

That heart, according to her close friend, Esther Tidwell, was as big as her home state. They met when their children were in the same fourth-grade class, and after 9-11, they helped with a

24

March 2022

school-wide bake sale to raise money for the New York City Fire Department.

“We became co-room mothers and fast friends,” Tidwell recalls. “Even with our age difference, we spent a lot of time together with our children and grandchildren. We were friends and maintained that friendship until her death. We always forgave each other, the truest part of a friendship.”

According to Tidwell, Yeager always put her best foot forward, donning a made-up face and stylish attire with coordinating accessories. She also was a fan of many different cuisines and collected a variety of cookbooks.

A true humanitarian, who at one time had three dogs and six cats, Yeager expressed her great love for people and animals with numerous mentorship and volunteer efforts, Tidwell says.

These included activities through Bridge Community Church, leadership in WOW, New Beginnings Mission and United Coast Prayer Movement and the Humane Society of the Mississippi Gulf Coast. While visiting an ICU together for a church ministry, Tidwell recalls that they brought snacks and prayed with many individuals and families.

Yeager’s faith, Tidwell adds, was the defining force in her life, and she found a creative outlet, as well as a vehicle for worship, in dancing, painting and other artistic hobbies.

“Andrea loved to dance for the Lord; her dance was very dramatic and memorable …,” Tidwell says. “I called her ‘prayer warrior,’ and she called me ‘woman of faith.’”

Killeen likewise describes Yeager as a warrior.

“Andrea heard God’s voice clearly, precisely,” she says.

PROUDLY SERVING THE BILOXI COMMUNITY Visit us at our new location!

732 Howard Avenue • Biloxi, MS 39530

www.gcwmultimedia.com

25

HIBERNIA MARCHING SOCIETY

MEET THE 2022 COLLEEN,

Celeste A. O’Keefe Celeste O’Keefe is co-owner of DANCEL Multimedia, along with her husband, Danny O’Keefe. This year, she has been chosen colleen for the Hibernia Marching Society. In this role, she says, her responsibilities include “representing the organization and the Irish at our events and bringing Irish cheer to all!” She will serve a full year as colleen, which ends in November.

My father-in-law, John O’Keefe placed an ad in the newspaper in 1978 inviting all to join the Hibernia Marching Society. I marched in the first parade as I was dating his son, Danny O’Keefe, to whom I am now married. My first memory of the organization was walking in that first parade.

Dockie, as we called him, was a proud Irishman, and he loved HMS and its growth. I am honored to serve as the 2022 colleen for the Hibernia Marching Society! As excited as I have been to be a member of the organization, I am so proud to represent all the Irish of our area and those who just enjoy the Irish culture.

Although we don’t require our grand marshal or colleen to be Irish, I discovered to my surprise that I am 38.6 percent Irish. My family is from County Dublin and County Cork, and I come from a long line of Irish immigrants. I plan to visit Ireland in the next few years and kiss the Blarney Stone. My late father-in-law visited Ireland with many friends from the Gulf Coast several times.

In 2011, my husband was the grand marshal, and he is 98.6 percent Irish. We have three sons, Shane, Connor and Brennan, and we all are looking forward to 2028 when the Hibernia Marching Society will celebrate its 50th anniversary.

Under current rules, you must be an HMS member for three years or more to serve as colleen. In this role, HMS is seeking someone who has supported the group through growth, committee involvement, etc., as well as someone who is willing to stay involved. Colleens and grand marshals meet several times a year for comradery, fellowship and Irish shenanigans.

Hibernia Marching Society holds several special events throughout the year, including the announcement party, the

26

March 2022

lace curtain and blarney luncheon, the comeallye’ ball and the St. Patrick’s Day parade, which is generally held the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day and will roll through Biloxi on March 12.

We are really excited about our parade! We have a member who lives in California, Lydia Hilton, who is our parade captain and has worked on the Rose Bowl Parade committee.

It is going to be bigger than ever!

We hope to have 80-plus entries in our parade, and we would love people to join HMS if they so desire. If you are curious about the Hibernia Marching Society, attend one of our functions, such as the luncheon, where all the women wear hats, many elaborate and beautifully decorated, or attend our ball, where we have Irish dancers, leprechauns and a fabulous live band. Learn more about our organization at www.hiberniamarchingsociety.com.

And definitely attend the parade! Look for the grand marshal and I in the horse-drawn carriage.

Welcome to your 2022

Home

GUIDE Trends, tips and ideas to help you live better

• New home idea look book • Trends in light fixtures; sinks, tubs and faucets, countertops and cabinets • How to make your outdoor spaces great • Your March gardening to-do list • Expert advice for lowering your energy costs • Find a Home Pro directory

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‘We become family’ McNair brings personal touch to custom home building

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

As a home industry professional, Kenny McNair is putting into practice skills and principles he learned from his father and grandfather.

These “jacks of all trades,” according to McNair, helped their neighbors with plumbing, roof work, home leveling, painting, drywalling, framing and a host of other handyman jobs. “(They) were the ones the community could depend on to keep their homes livable —oftentimes without pay,” he says. “This inspired me to be able to build new, quality homes that would last through several generations with minimal repairs.”

In 1998, McNair entered the business as a brick salesman, and in 2002, he founded McNair Homes, a custom home-building firm based in Gulfport. He runs the company alongside his wife, Sharon, who serves as the business’s interior designer and quality control manager.

Since the company’s inception, McNair has developed a 34-lot subdivision and a 170-unit apartment complex in Gulfport in addition to building over 125 homes in the past 15 years. Recently, the city of Gulfport approved a plan for McNair to develop and build six new homes, with sale prices in the low $200,000s, on the corner of Duckworth and Three Rivers roads.

“My hope is to build affordable custom homes for individuals that otherwise could not,” he says.

Clients have called his firm a “one-stop shop,” according to McNair, where they can find help picking and researching their potential home site and keep that expert guidance throughout the building process. McNair’s extensive list of services also includes remodeling, renovations, repairs, roofing, additions, foundations and much more.

McNair says he prepares his clients well before construction even begins.

“I walk them through the design and building process detail by detail; I am always just a phone call away,” he says. “My personal relationship with them eases their stress, I’m not their builder; I’m their best friend building their home.”

Lately, McNair says some of the most requested home features have been an open floor plan, high ceilings, a gray-and-white color scheme and lots of natural light.

McNair homes, he adds, are known for their distinctive trim package, extra crown molding and specialty ceiling designs.

Working with his business, McNair says, can help clients get exactly what they want within their budget. While

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March 2022

From left: Kenny McNair; his granddaughter, Kylie McNair; and his wife, Sharon McNair

“My personal relationship with them eases their stress, I’m not their builder; I’m their best friend building their home.” going through the planning, building, and finishing process together, he adds, “We become family.”

“The Mississippi Gulf Coast is home,” McNair says, “and to be able to make dreams come true for my clients, many of whom are my friends, means the world to me.”

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

Taryn Pratt Flynt

Her Journey in Real Estate & Passion for This Business In 2015, after having her now seven-year old son and taking a hiatus from a 9-5 job, Taryn Pratt Flynt decided that being a stay-at-home-mom just was not for her. Trying to decide on a career that she could make her own schedule and still be present for her kids, she pursued her real estate salesperson license. As a big picture thinker, buying a home was HUGE to her, and she really enjoyed the home buying experience and wanted to make that dream achievable for others.

Taryn quickly got her real estate license and became a million dollar producer, which she has maintained for the last six years. She also quickly earned her certified Military Relocation Professional through the National Association of REALTORS. In 2020, Taryn got her own broker’s license and opened a branch office of Southern Oaks Realty in Biloxi in the Woolmarket area.

Taryn Pratt Flynt, Broker

When choosing a brokerage, Taryn talked with many local brokers and realized that she fit best with Southern Oaks Realty – a small, independent brokerage owned by Mississippi Real Estate Broker, Leah Hinton, based in Hurley.

Taryn credits Broker Leah Hinton for believing in her: for having more faith in her than she sometimes had in herself, for trusting her, and for letting her take the creative reigns and make the branch office her own, while continuing with the Southern Oaks vision.

With new exciting, ten-year goals in the works and a growing team of agents, Taryn hopes to continue to provide the same support that her mentor, Leah Hinton, did for her own team of agents.

“As a broker on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I am passionate about the place I grew up, and I love helping others see the beauty of South Mississippi. Whether buying or selling, my team would love to help make your real estate hopes comes true.”

13109 Shriners Blvd. | Suite B | Biloxi, MS | C: (228) 697-3862 | O: (228) 207-6496 www.gcwmultimedia.com 29 tarynflynt@gmail.com | southernoaksrealtyms.com

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Home GUIDE

Cabinet Trends

All-white kitchens have had their day, but in 2022, homeowners are leaning toward more interesting, bold choices — both in terms of color and style.

As homeowners look to streamline and simplify their storage, cabinetry is getting revamped to look sleeker and more contemporary. Glass doors with dark accents, for instance, are a perfect way to highlight your prettiest dishware.

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March 2022

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

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Tanya and her husband and co-owner/partner, Brett, and their amazing team know all there is to know about our coastal paradise. They can assist you with all your real estate needs – buying, selling, commercial, short sale, foreclosure, investment properties.

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LET US MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE.

YOUR PROPERTY. OUR SERVICES. CUSTOM BUILT FOR YOU. Our team knows that a home is more than a place you live. It’s where you build your life. And that’s Cretin Townsend Homes takes the home building process so personally.

Since 1976, we have been building beautiful, custom homes across southeast Louisiana and Mississippi.

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March 2022

NEW HOMES UNDER CONSTRUCTION & READY FOR PURCHASE THE GRAND TOWNSEND 2,759 total sq ft | 4 BR, 2BA

The Grand Townsend was designed with family in mind. This open floor plan features a large island that serves as the centerpiece of the kitchen and great room. The cozy covered patio is a perfect place for families to gather for a BBQ, party or simply to enjoy a beautiful evening on the Gulf Coast.

THE CROSBY

3,175 total sq ft | 4 BR, 3 BA The Crosby floor plan combines all the latest design features in a single-story dream home. The kitchen is the centerpiece with an island and two pantries. Other features include a mud room and covered patio. This home also includes a guest suite with its own full bathroom, providing comfort and privacy for your guests.

Visit Our Gulfport Design Center Our specialty: building high-quality custom homes on your property. Our proven processes guide you from the inquiry stage through permitting and financing, saving you valuable time and money.

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TIRED OF FIXING THIS, FIXING THAT?

NEED A MINIMUM-STRESS BUILDING PROCESS?

LET’S GET STARTED BUILDING YOUR CUSTOM HOME!

“

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March 2022

OUR CUSTOMERS CAN TELL YOU

We were referred to McNair homes by our realtor. After our consultation, we knew that McNair Homes was the way to go! Great customer service, very professional and excellent craftsmanship. We are so thankful for all the help through the building process. We are so pleased and are loving our dream home!

— Tommy and Arrian Foster

McNAIR HOMES - WE TREAT YOU LIKE FAMILY

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Call 228.297.9321

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37

Home GUIDE

Countertop Trends

WARMER, DARKER TONES Cool, gray shades have been dominant in recent years, but experts predict that homeowners will continue moving toward darker, more adventurous color choices for their countertops. The result is a sophisticated, statementmaking kitchen that is also thoroughly modern. For an eye-catching contrast, pair dark countertops with lighter-colored cabinets and backsplash — or vice versa.

Quick tip!

Some countertop options may look great, but make sure they fit your desired price point and be aware of their pros and cons. For instance, quartz and granite are extremely durable, but can be pricey, while marble is beautiful, but susceptible to chipping and cracking.

THINSCAPE Like cabinets, countertops in general are trending toward a more sleek, slender profile.

And if you want a luxurious look for less, Thinscape may be your solution. It’s made from a half-inch base and has the appearance of marble, granite and quartz at a significantly lower price. Besides being relatively inexpensive, Thinscape is also durable and stain resistant.

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March 2022

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

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2619 PASS ROAD | BILOXI, MS 228.265.7282 | POWERMARKPROPERTIES.COM

March 2022

FAMILY SUCCESS FOR OVER 70 YEARS!

ON-SITE CUSTOM DESIGNER Window Treatments Shades | Slipcovers Pillows | Bed Linens Our in-house design team can help you choose your fabric then design, custom-make, and deliver exceptional personalized products.

Debbie Batia, Allied Member ASID

ALICE JONES - Design Associate and Custom Fabricator Alice established AMP Designs custom sewing workroom in 1983. After much success, her business evolved into a service workroom for local Decorators and Interior Designers in her home town of Lubbock, Texas as well as Austin, Texas. She had the opportunity to work on Parade of Homes, The Symphony Show Home and Extreme Makeover Home. Window treatments and pillows are her passion. She also loves creating beautiful bedding ensembles for baby nurseries to master suites.

Lillian Gossett - Design Assistant

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41

Home GUIDE

Sinks, tubs and faucets Quick tip!

Want to add some retro flair to your bathroom? It’s all in the details. Exposed piping and other industrial-inspired elements are a surefire way to give your shower plenty of aesthetic appeal.

Homes are trending toward minimalism and simplicity in general, but bathrooms are getting especially pared down.

Cluttered, crowded shelves are out; sleek, stylish accents are in. Spalike vibes are the goal, and they are achieved with a calming color palate and by incorporating organic elements into your design. Natural materials, such as stone and wood, are in demand along with freestanding sink basins and tubs. Open-concept showers and wetrooms can make the most of limited space while giving a bathroom a highend, contemporary feel.

HIGH CONTRAST Have fun with your design by considering shiny finishes, bold color choices and contrasting palettes. Even if your bathroom is small square footage-wise, there’s no reason it can’t be packed with personality.

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March 2022

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

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when you’re ready to make a house your home

©2022 BancorpSouth Bank, a division of Cadence Bank. All Rights Reserved. Member FDIC. Mortgage loans are subject to approval. Interest rates are subject to change without notice and are dependent on credit score.

Certain conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend or rate guarantee. NMLS# 410279

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March 2022

Real Estate News SUSAN SIEMIONTKOWSKI RECEIVES COLDWELL BANKER'S 2021 INTERNATIONAL DIAMOND SOCIETY AWARD WOW! What an honor to be part of Coldwell Banker’s 2021 International Diamond Society.

Thank you to all who have made this possible including, past and present customers as well as those who referred friends and family. Your trust, support and friendship mean the world to me!

Life is short - do what you love and treasure those who help and support you along the way.

Susie Siemiontkowski Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty 228-287-1000 Office 228-239-2621 Direct

Redefining Custom Homes As your Listing Agent, I'll create a strategic marketing plan to sell your home. When buying, I'll search both new and existing homes, including those in The Emerald Series, which I design for Acadian Homes and Myco Homes.

Brand new, turn-key custom homes in this designer collection combine gorgeous, highend finishes that provide the best value without sacrificing quality, modern conveniences and extraordinary elegance.

Each has a design board with selected finishes to help envision the completed luxury home.

Whatever your real estate needs, I would be honored to help you reach your goals. Call today and let's get started on your journey.

or n f Sca & le lab i a Av ing com Up es Hom

www.gcwmultimedia.com

45

Home GUIDE

Lighting Trends

Whatever your personal taste and style, let it shine through with distinctive lighting.

One trend homeowners are loving is handcrafted fixtures, like these rattan pendant lights. Artisan-made pieces, created with sustainable materials, offer much more than light. They provide a one-of-a-kind focal point and add instant warmth and character.

Quick tip!

Forget everything you thought you knew about chandeliers. The delicate glass pendants of the past are giving way to contemporary glamour and more sculptural design. This Capiz honeycomb chandelier, for example, is a chic choice that diffuses a warm glow throughout any room.

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March 2022

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

A LITTLE BIT DRAMATIC Bold, elegant lighting solutions that double as works of art are all the rage. The Cerine double pendant by Trueing, composed of glass chain links and two blown glass orbs, is at once delicate and dramatic.

Plus, it’s easily customizable to your space.

THE EMERALD SERIES New luxury homes professionally designed by Susan Siemiontkowski, REALTOR & New Home Specialist.

Each turn-key-ready home is designed with high-end finishes throughout including:

TURN-KEY LUXURY HOME DESIGNS Call Susan for more information on available homes.

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All Stainless Steel Appliances including the Fridge Soft-Close Cabinets Quartz or Granite Countertops Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring Throughout (Except Primary Bath) 4-Piece Grown Molding Fireplace Owner's Retreat with Spa Bath (Tiled Shower and Free-Standing Soaker Tub) Custom Closets (No Wire) Beautiful Landscaping Soffit Lights Customwww.gcwmultimedia.com Hood Vent & More!

47

“Watching others grow gives me the ultimate satisfaction and feeling of success.”

An entrepreneur and retail business owner at age 17, Nicole has always loved sales and helping people.

However, it was real estate that ultimately became her passion–finding the feeling of putting someone in a home “one of the most rewarding experiences of her life.” She founded Fidelis Realty in 2009, choosing the name for its meaning–integrity and honesty–cornerstones of any business, especially real estate. Nicole has grown the Fidelis brand with two successful franchises and has approximately 40 agents, who she views as family and proudly calls friends.

A hallmark of Nicole’s business is to encourage and empower women–taking chances and inspiring everyone from single moms to those looking to change careers–with a supportive, mentored and family-friendly environment that allows for work-life balance.

Her definition of success is the satisfaction that she gets from watching others grow.

NICOLE NEZAT

Broker Fidelis Realty

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March 2022

2518 Pass Road, Suite 7A, Biloxi, MS 39531 Direct: (228) 365-0550 Office: (228) 896-4200 nicole@fidelisrealty.com www.fidelisrealty.com

LUXURIOUS FINISHES, IMPECCABLE DESIGN Have you dreamed of owning a brand new, professionally designed home? We're your builder!

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BREAKING THE MOLD Move-In Ready, Professionally Designed Custom Homes Does the thought of designing your home from the ground cause anxiety? Are you concerned that your neighbor's home will mimic yours? We have a solution!

Our professionally designed, turn-key homes are carefully planned to offer luxury, style and one-of-a-kind splendor.

Every home will have its beautiful finishes showcased on design boards like those on the right.

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Sales: 228-239-2621 Main Phone: 228-355-0044 info@buildacadianhomes.com www.gcwmultimedia.com 49 buildacadianhomes.com

Home GUIDE

Backsplash Trends

FULL SLABS Homeowners are choosing slab backsplashes in place of tile because they eliminate grout lines and provide a clean, modern and luxurious look.

Also look for alternative materials, like wood and stone, or even a mixture of glass and steel, to be used more frequently in kitchens to lend them a unique touch — in addition to being more eco-friendly.

If homeowners are using the ever-popular subway tile at all, they’re gravitating toward larger sizes, or even to tiles with creative designs.

Quick tip!

Think outside the box with fun, head-turning patterns, and rather than keeping your backsplash between the countertops and cabinets, take it all the way to the ceiling for a modern effect that’s sure to grab attention.

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March 2022

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

www.gcwmultimedia.com

51

IT’S 2022, AND HIGH-TECH HOMES ARE GETTING EVEN

smarter

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Technology already has revolutionized the way we live and function in our homes, and it shows no signs of slowing down. Advances that were once the stuff of science fiction are now commonplace — with many more on the way.

We’ve spent more time than ever at home in the past two years, so it’s no surprise that we’ve sought, and found, ways to be more comfortable, safe and efficient within our own walls. In 2022 and beyond, expect these and other innovations to make your home even smarter: SECURITY

With the pandemic keeping people at home for extended periods of time, the market for home security devices has grown significantly. Strategy Analytics estimates that 7.9 million video doorbells were sold worldwide in 2020 alone.

What could possibly top the ability to remotely see who’s at your door? How about a gadget that monitors your entire home? Amazon has introduced Astro, a multi-purpose “home robot” that can patrol your property, bring you things and much more. Astro’s “head” is equipped with a periscope camera, and it also can distinguish between faces.

If Astro sounds incredible, how about a security camera that flies on a drone? Ring is developing the Always Home Cam, which lets you see what’s happening when Ring Alarm is triggered and check anywhere in your house on demand.

CLEANING

Machines don’t handle all our housework yet, but we’re getting closer. Robotic vacuums are improving in their mapping ability and cleaning power — gaining on their handheld, upright counterparts.

Good Housekeeping likes the Samsung POWERBOT R7040, which offers 20 times the suction on all floor types compared to other robot vacuums and can be controlled remotely via your smartphone or voice-enabled devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

Then there’s the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra, set to be available in the second quarter of the year, which boasts AI-powered obstacle avoidance, a camera for remote home monitoring and mopping capability in addition to its impressive suction power.

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March 2022

HEALTH

We spent months unable to go to the gym, which has spawned a slew of home-based fitness products and services. For instance, Apple Fitness+ offers classes for 11 different types of workouts that can be streamed to your Apple devices. The ever-popular Peleton has come out with Bluetooth heart rate monitor that offers LED lights that indicate which heart rate zone you’re training in. If a Peleton bike is out of your budget, PCMag recommends the Echelon Connect EX-8S Connect smart stationary bike, which is more affordable and features a 24-inch, curved 1080p touch screen with surround sound — offering an immersive audiovisual experience.

APPLIANCES

The tools that perform our most important daily tasks are improving at a dizzying pace. Take LG’s new FX washer and dryer, a favorite of experts at the 2022 Consumer Electronics Show, for instance. Using LG’s Artificial Intelligence Direct Drive (AI DD) technology, the washer detects load size, fabric type and soil level, then automatically adds the correct amount of detergent and chooses the right wash cycle. The dryer uses an infrared sensor to ensure even drying.

To increase convenience and help stop the spread of germs, Moen has launched a Smart Faucet with touchless technology that lets the user control temperature and water flow through simple hand motions. Also in the kitchen realm, companies like LG and Samsung have been developing a host of smart gadgets, such as refrigerators that serve as home communication hubs and feature interior cameras showing you what you need while you’re out shopping.

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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McNair Homes

New home

IDEA BOOK

EXTERIORS MyCo Construction

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March 2022

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

Acadian Homes

Thank you for supporting local family-owned businesses!

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March 2022

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New home

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March 2022

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DIY: ZIP CODE FRAME

BY HOLLY LEMOINE-RAYMOND

This DIY project has a special meaning for me. I have been looking for different ideas to incorporate into my new real estate office. I thought this one would be perfect since we deal with several ZIP codes.

This is a creative way to showcase just some of the areas in our community that we love.

SUPPLIES:

You will need a shadow box or frame with enough room to fit your items and still close when you’re finished. You can use actual address numbers for the zip code, or any embellished numbers you can find. I used push pins to hold the numbers in place during assembly.

HERE ARE THE ITEMS I USED:

• 28-by-7 shadow box (Hobby Lobby) • glue gun and glue sticks • numbers for the zip code • recycled party favor bags (for the decorative backing) • scissors • push pins

STEP 1

Make sure the frame is cleaned well. Once you get this put together, you don’t want to have to reopen it to remove dust or smudges.

Remove the cardboard backing from the frame so you can measure the center of it.

I started with the middle number so I could space out the other ones accordingly.

I did a test run and laid everything out to ensure I was pleased with the placement.

STEP 2

Take your decorative backing (I used recycled party bags) and cut evenly to ensure a uniform look for the whole backing strip. You can then glue them down to get ready for your number placement.

STEP 3

After you have the backing prepared, you can start laying out the numbers. Remember to use your push pins to hold them in place. This will help ensure your exact measurements are correct and that they do not come apart as you are working.

STEP 4

You can glue your numbers in place. Make sure to hold the numbers down after using the glue gun. You want to make sure to have a firm attachment before you move on.

STEP 5

Once everything is secured, you can embellish extra if desired. I had little screw holes in my numbers, so I glued a small furniture tack over this — just a little decorative camouflage for a finished look.

Make sure everything is dry, then close up your frame or shadow box.

I have one made so far for Bay St. Louis — 39520. I plan on creating seven others, so hopefully you will see them all in my office soon.

TIP: Before you start, always remember to turn your glue gun on to warm it up. This seems simple, but I have forgotten this step, and it seems like this takes forever when you have to wait.

Holly Lemoine-Raymond is owner/ broker with HL Raymond Properties and executive producer of Inside Out with HL Raymond Properties (TV series). She can be reached at (228) 466-6643 or lemoine.holly@gmail.com.

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Make the outdoors great Your perfect oasis awaits in your own backyard

Over the last few years, outdoor spaces have increasingly become the preferred destination for gathering with family and friends. More than ever, our backyards, patios, pergolas, decks and gardens are becoming places of refuge where we connect with nature and each other.

Here are some ideas for bringing ambience, beauty and function to your outdoor living areas: ALFRESCO KITCHENS

Outdoor kitchens have contributed to to the popularity of outdoor entertaining spaces. While this is happening internationally, it’s a trend perfectly suited to the lifestyle and climate here on the Gulf Coast. An outdoor kitchen is an investment worth making if you have the space. There’s nothing like dining on your back porch on a beautiful spring evening!

VEGETABLE AND HERB GARDENS

Garden to plate is one trend that’s easy to adopt. There’s been a considerable push toward organic gardening and homegrown produce, especially in the last year or so. Gardens make a practical, yet stunning, feature in your outdoor space. Raised garden beds are a staple for horticulture aficionados, and they seem to be gaining traction in 2022.

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If you have a small area, you can use planters to create the same effect. Herbs and leafy greens are great place to start if you are a novice green thumb like me.

NATIVE PLANTS

There’s much be said for a garden filled with coastal native plants. Not only are they sustainable and low maintenance, but they’re also a great way to attract native wildlife such as insects, lizards, butterflies, birds and bees.

BOLD FLOWERS

Is there anything more uplifting and calming than a flower garden in full bloom? It’s no surprise that bright, vibrant flowers will be the hot topic in spring this year. Mix and match your planters and disperse plenty of greenery amidst all the color.

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BY JENNIFER MILLER Jennifer Miller is a certified interior designer, professional home stager and the president of Jennuwine Design, Sophisticated Staging.

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OUTDOOR FABRIC CHOICES

Channel the calm and beauty of the outdoors with a color scheme that takes cues from nature, and nourish your soul with plant-based hues that promote vitality, rest and balance. I recommend Phifer’s Nature Walk collection, which is brimming with lush greens, rich wood tones and creamy neutrals.

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

In choosing your outdoor furniture, you’ll want to pick pieces that can stand up to the elements in addition to being aesthetically pleasing. Berlin Gardens outdoor furniture is my top recommendation to any clients wanting to update their outdoor spaces. Their recycled plastic poly furniture is weather resistant, virtually maintenance free and designed to accent your outdoor environment.

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BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Bringing the

flower garden indoors Fragrant and beautiful, blooms brighten any room

Photograph by Brandi Stage Portraiture

Most women love flowers, but few are as fond of them as Martha Whitney Butler.

From designing jaw-dropping headpieces for a charity fashion show to bringing the “wow” factor to weddings, the proprietor of the French Potager, a floral, gift and antique shop in Bay St. Louis, elevates floristry to an art. Her work has been featured in numerous prestigious publications, including a tutorial in Flower Magazine, and she’s been voted the best floral designer

BUTLER’S TIPS FOR FLORAL ARRANGING AND MAKING SPACES BEAUTIFUL: 1. Choose the right container. Designing will come naturally when you pick something near and dear to you that has a substantial opening and nice shape.

2. Let the space guide your design. High ceilings call for taller arrangements.

Shorter arrangements are perfect for centerpieces and coffee tables.

3. Use an assortment of flowers. When designing, it is important to use blooms

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in Mississippi for several years running by readers of Mississippi Magazine — among her many accolades.

“The season is usually the main influence in my designs,” she says, “and I like to let the flowers do most of the work.”

If you enjoy giving your home some ambiance with gorgeous blooms (and who doesn’t?), here's some expert advice.

that have varying vase lives. For example, a poppy will wilt quicker than a lily, so you can accent with the poppy and pull it when it fades and still have a beautiful arrangement.

4. For long-lasting arrangements, change your water and cut your stems every other day. Remove flowers that are fading, and keep your arrangements in a dark, cool area if possible.

5. Bring flowers into your home whenever possible, whether they are from your yard, grocery store or professionally designed. They will bring you so much joy!

6. Plant things that you will be able to cut

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from. I find that investing in greenery will keep you both designing arrangements as well as maintaining your landscape. Repurposing and shuffling around elements in your home is a free way to breathe new life into your space.

For example, one season’s brick firepit can be another season’s brick garden border.

7. For entryways and foyers, I recommend an inviting fragrance as this is the first impression of your home. For living areas, I like a simple approach — a bundle of tulips or roses in your favorite containers.

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YOUR MARCH GARDENING TO-DO LIST

BY DARLENE UNDERWOOD

This time of year brings beautiful weather to the Coast, which is perfect for being outdoors and getting our hands dirty.

As we head into a new season, there are plenty of tasks to take care of

in our gardens.

Although most gardening calendars recommend cleaning up last year’s debris, a host of insects and pollinators are still residing in the dead wood and stems. Wait a few more weeks until it warms up enough for them to emerge from their winter slumber.

And speaking of pollinators, wildflower areas are encouraged to feed and shelter these amazing creatures. Plan now to include native wildflowers in at least a small area of your yard or garden. In Mississippi we have a large and diverse selection to enhance our environment. Start with a small section, and as plants multiply, move them, or let them reseed to enlarge their life-giving space.

Several years ago, I stopped mowing a low-lying area of our property. Each spring, summer and fall, I have been repaid generously with beautiful flowers that not

only give me joy, but feed the pollinators, birds and small creatures that reside close by.

OTHER GARDENING CHORES AND TIPS FOR THIS TIME OF YEAR INCLUDE:

• Water evergreen plants thoroughly when a freeze is predicted. Plants still need moisture to survive a freeze.

• Maintain a two- to three-inch layer of mulch over the root systems of trees and shrubs to retain moisture and reduce weeds. In areas where you want last year’s annuals to germinate, reduce mulch to one inch.

• Plant or transplant trees or shrubs now while they are dormant. This gives the plant time to grow a sturdy root system before its energy is needed for spring budding.

• Test soil and plan for needed adjustments for the upcoming growing season.

Mississippi State University Extension Service has a soil testing lab, and local Extension offices in each county have boxes and collection information. The testing cost is nominal.

• If soil additives such as peat, compost

or manure are needed, order or pick up supplies and plan your approach. The latest research reveals that trees will benefit from fertilizer spread on top of the ground to two feet beyond the expanse of their branches. Most feeder roots are within a few inches of soil.

• The end of February to the first week of March is the ideal time to fertilize camellias, fruit trees, shrubs, vines and ground covers. Pecan trees need a fertilizer containing zinc.

• Fertilize palms and sagos with a special palm food that contains magnesium and other essential nutrients. Poor nutrition is one of the main problems for palms in our area.

• Rejuvenate liriope and Aztec grass by cutting with the highest blade setting on your mower. Water and fertilize to jumpstart spring growth.

Happy gardening!

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

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LET PAINT help create Serenity and Calm in your home today!

Stay bright

and conserve energy with these power-saving tips Small steps can mean big savings when it comes to managing your home’s energy usage. You have more control over your energy bill than you may think.

Implementing energy efficiency measures doesn’t mean you need to do an expensive home renovation. Milder

BY KAILA MORAN spring temperatures mean your heating GRIFFITH and cooling system won’t have to work so hard to keep your home comfortable.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE PLEASANT WEATHER AND MAKE SURE YOUR HOME IS PREPARED FOR THE DOG DAYS OF SUMMER WITH THESE TIPS:

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• It’s always advisable to have a licensed professional assess your heating and cooling system at least once a year to ensure it’s working safely and efficiently. Don’t forget to mark your calendar and change out your air filter once a month, too. The more efficiently your system runs, the more you’ll save on your bill.

• If you’re looking to upgrade any home appliances, make sure they are ENERGY STAR certified for year-round savings. Rebates often are available, including those for a smart thermostat, energy-saving pool pump and a heat pump water heater. Switching to more energy-efficient appliances, like a smart thermostat, will help you manage your energy usage straight from your phone. Remember, set the temperature to 78 degrees during the summer for maximum savings.

• Spring cleaning? Do a quick home inspection to ensure there are no gaps or air leaks around doors or windows. If there are, take a few minutes to install weather stripping.

This quick and budget-friendly solution will keep the hot air outside during the summer while you stay nice and cool inside. You can also upgrade your incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs to LEDs for a brighter, more energy efficient home. LEDs last longer, use less energy and are better for the environment. Talk about a win/win!

Summers in South Mississippi are hot! Don’t let the heat drive up your energy bill. Stay cool, stay bright and save energy by implementing these tips at your home or business.

Kaila Moran Griffith is a spokeswoman for Mississippi Power.

Reach her at KAMORAN@southernco.com.

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When you need a professional

ALLSTATE: CHRIS BOUDREAUX AGENCY My office has over 30 years in insurance experience. We specialize in home, auto, business and life insurance. We strive to give great customer service while also providing affordable coverages. My agency works all available options to make sure our customers are taken care of.

CHRIS BOUDREAUX OWNER

(228) 452-9605 or (228) 312-9900 text: (228) 452-9605 cjboudreaux@allstate.com agents.allstate.com/chris-boudreaux-passchristian-ms.html

BILOXI BEACH RESORT RENTALS Biloxi Beach Resort Rentals is the place for the best vacation rentals and vacation rental management right here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Locally owned and operated, we take pride in all things that make our hometown great. Our team of professionals make it their priority to ensure your experience from the very beginning is the very best.

Biloxi Beach Resort Rentals is the largest vacation rental management company on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and offers full-service property management for your investment-property. We provide owners with a piece of mind along with

a variety of services, such as housekeeping, maintenance, reservations and guest services to make your life easier.

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Licensed in Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia and Texas, we have over 27 years of experience guiding customers to the best insurance solutions for their homes, businesses, personal and professional properties and the liability insurance needed for any situation.

We can fully assess and diagnose current or future insurance coverages needed for your home, auto and business. From property with wind coverage to liability, workers’ compensation, private and business auto, cyber liability, flood and builder’s risk, there is no risk we can’t diagnose and provide a sound

recommendation. We also have walked hundreds of customers through catastrophic claims.

We are partnered with over 50 carriers and can offer the best insurance solutions at the most affordable prices. In-house financing options are available, too.

Coastal Select Insurance believes in transparency, communication and education when we evaluate and place your insurance coverage with us. We make sure our customers fully understand their policies. Our proactive attitude and customer service is matched by no other agency, and you’ll never

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be surprised at renewal. We reach out well ahead of time to discuss rate changes and options that best suit you. We provide the correct coverage that you need with the professional advice you deserve. And, if there’s a claim, you won’t be disappointed in our response.

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When you need a professional

CROSBY’S FURNITURE The furniture retail business has been passed down through the Crosby family for five generations. We’ve always been family owned and proudly served our local communities.

We specialize in making the furniture-buying process as simple and streamlined as possible. We are highly experienced in our trade and extremely familiar with our product line. With just a few questions when you walk through our door and the help of our in-store catalog technology, we can help you narrow down hundreds of options within minutes.

MATTHEW STUART AND DARIENNE CROSBY STUART OWNERS

At Crosby’s Furniture, we are family-owned and operated. When continuing to shop with us, you’ll get to do business with the same faces time and time again.

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DELMAR MORTGAGE I have over 35 years of mortgage lending experience, from processing and underwriting to even owning my own company before being recruited by Delmar Mortgage. I am very familiar with all aspects of mortgage lending and enjoy using my expertise to help home buyers mortgage their homes and current owners with their refinancing.

We specialize in FHA, VA, USDA and conventional financing and are pros at working with Mississippi

Home Corporation Bond loans, which provide 7,000 grants to first-time homebuyers. Delmar Mortgage is one of the oldest mortgage companies in America and that, coupled with my personal experience, makes us a great team to have on a home buyer or owner’s side for their mortgage needs.

We have fabulous technology that keeps the borrower aware of their loan progress every step of the way. We are accessible to our clients and realtors beyond traditional

business hours, and that makes the process run extra smooth.

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MARSHALL HOFFMAN OWNER

I have 20 years in the moving industry. I learned the moving trade from Nick Kolinsky, a Golden Eagles football legend in the 1960s and owner of Nick’s Ice House, who also owned a moving company. I stayed with Kolinsky’s company until I graduated college, learning the business from the ground up.

My company specializes in full-service moves, specialty moves, commercial moves, packing, storage container rentals, climate-controlled storage units and restoration services. We’re the Coast’s favorite movers. Our entire team holds a certification from Pro Certified, and we strongly

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When you need a professional

MCNAIR HOMES I have more than 20 years in the custom homebuilding industry here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I have developed subdivision and multi-family units. I am currently building spec homes on 2nd Street in the city of Gulfport.

I specialize in customer service when it comes to customizing my clients’ dream homes and making their dreams a reality.

I believe what sets McNair Homes apart from other builders is that I provide quality homes, personalized customer service and affordable prices.

KENNY MCNAIR OWNER

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MIGHTY MEN MOVERS MS James and Dorothy Wilson started Mighty Men Movers MS back in 2004 as a way to earn extra income to afford private schooling for their two sons. Since then, the company has grown, and their sons have gone on to careers of their own. The Wilsons now are doing so much more than providing great customer care at reasonable rates; Mighty Men Movers MS is building mighty young men.

Based in South Mississippi, Mighty Men Movers MS specializes in moving household and office goods locally and across the U.S. Services include packing, loading, unloading and relocation logistical planning. We offer friendly, professional services at a great rate, and our attitude and professionalism set us apart. We understand that we’re not just moving items; we are helping our customers relocate during one of the

most stressful times of their lives.

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MISSISSIPPI HOME CORPORATION

MACIE CARNEY ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING

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Since 1989, the Mississippi Home Corporation has been helping residents fulfill their dream of home ownership.

We are the “hub agency” for housing assistance, with lending programs and grants to help with down payments and closing costs, as well as educational programs to guide future homeowners.

We have a team of MHC-approved lenders throughout

Mississippi who can find the right home mortgage loan product for you. We have programs that offer cash assistance at closing, ways to reduce your federal tax liability and education classes to improve your credit score and set you up for homeownership success. As a government agency, we can channel state and federal funds and tools to Mississippi residents.

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Oral Health Of Infants, BILOXI OFFICE OCEAN SPRINGS OFFICE Children, Teens (228) 374-8175 (228) 215-3100 1070 Judge Ave. 1268 Ocean Springs Rd. andSekul Children With Biloxi, MS 39530 Ocean Springs, MS 39564 Special Needs C.A. “BUDDY” BRICE D.D.S., P.A. AUSTIN J. MCMURPHY, D.M.D., M.S.D. BILOXI OFFICE

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When you need a professional

PARKER CONTRACTING LLC

APRIL PARKER OWNER

We have over 25 years’ experience in residential new builds, renovations and remodels in Mississippi and Louisiana and specialize in new construction, remodeling and additions.

We want to make our clients feel important by understanding their wants, needs and dreams.

We listen to our clients’ ideas about their dream home and help in all aspects, starting by meeting with the client about designs, finishes and inspiration. We ask many questions to determine what’s most important on their wish list, whether it’s building a new home or remodeling an existing one.

We take budget into account and evaluate the best we can to turn their dreams into reality. We encourage each client to share Pinterest boards for us to put together our own portfolio. Whether a client wants a designer or assistance with certain design aspects, we are there to help however we can. We want our client to feel comfortable each step of the way.

What sets us apart is the attention we give our clients. Whether it’s meeting on site on weekends or taking clients shopping for items like tile, cabinets, countertops, paint, etc., we want them to feel special and appreciated.

We understand that building and remodeling a home can be very stressful, and we want to take that stress off their plate.

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RESTORATION 1 I have worked and developed business relationships within the water mitigation industry for over two years. Our company handles all residential and commercial water, mold, fire, and smoke damage within the Mississippi Gulf Coast and Pine Belt areas.

Our knowledge and approach, in addition to our IICRC certification, set us apart from the competition — in addition to us being honest and caring individuals. We understand the situation and want to make sure our customers are

taken care of in every aspect.

(228) 239-4391 Christopher.Ramage@restoration1.com www.restoration1ofgulfcoast.com/

CHRISTOPHER RAMAGE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

SEAMAN AND ASSOCIATES My brother, Kim Seaman, and I have over 30 years’ experience. We are state-certified appraisers also offering sales and property management services. We cover Harrison, Hancock, Jackson, George, Greene, Stone and Perry counties. We pride ourselves on being a good and fair appraiser that does the job right.

STEVE SEAMAN CO-OWNER

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March 2022

HOME & GARDENS SPONSORED BY

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SILKWOOD LANE BILOXI $15,000

HOMEOWNERS | FLOOD RENTERS | AUTO | BOATS RECREATIONAL VEHICLES MOBILE HOMES I have served the Gulf Coast for 11 years, and would be honored to put my experience to work to help you with all of your Property and Casualty Insurance needs.

PENNI LADNER-LEE Agent

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Two lots overlooking Tuxachanie creek at the end of Silkwood Lane off Cedar Creek Road.

LARUE ROAD OCEAN SPRINGS $115,000

Twenty Acres with frontage on Larue and a small portion on Double Still Road , heavily wooded.

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

YARD STUFF Everything You Need for Your Yard, Lawn, Garden, & Patio

THE COAST’S FAVORITE MOVERS We understand that moving can be a complicated and stressful process.

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Upfront Pricing - Clean Equipment Licensed & Insured - Respectful & Punctual Last Minute Call = No Problem No Up-charge for Saturday Moves 2072 Ninth Street, Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520

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We feature Outdoor Furniture in Oak, Cedar, Cypress and Iron including Adirondack Lounge Chairs, Hickory Bentwood Rocking Chairs, Swings and Tables.

Also Mexican-made Clay Chimeneas and Pots, Decorative Lawn and Garden Metal Sculptures, Fountains, and a Wide Assortment of Wood Bird Houses.

ALL FURNITURE AND BIRD HOUSES CAN BE CUSTOMIZED WITH THE STAIN OR PAINT COLORS OF YOUR CHOICE.

We also offer Custom Landscaping Services & Maintenance Call George Wilson at 228-870-5111 for a consultation

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79

ADVERTORIAL Mr. Perfect Grooming Set $20 P.S. We love our Pillows! $42

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March 2022

FRENCH DRUG COMPANY

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

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81

PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE / 2022

Shaping scholars HOPE ACADEMY ELEVATES LEARNING, INSPIRES LEADERSHIP

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

W

hen Hope Academy was established in 2014, just 40 students were enrolled in pre-k3 through second grade.

Today, 200 students from pre-k 2 through eighth grade attend the school, nestled in the heart of Gulfport’s Florence Gardens community. A second Bayou View campus is undergoing renovations and will open in July to accommodate increasing demand. It initially will house a program for pre-k 3-4 but offers plenty of room for growth.

“Hope Academy values each and every student, and our culture is one of kindness and acceptance,” says Head of School Heather Blenden. “Our carefully curated curriculum empowers students with the leadership and life skills they need to thrive in the 21st century.”

An independent private school with no religious affiliation, Hope Academy is open to students from throughout the Coast. In addition to rigorous academics, the school offers a range of extracurriculars including robotics team, chess club, yearbook, cheerleading, archery, cross country, soccer, dance and music.

“Visual and performing arts are fully integrated into the curriculum and culture at Hope Academy, led by working artists and musicians,” Blenden says. Monthly student showcases, as well as the spring musical and various holiday celebrations, give students an opportunity to shine.

Blenden adds that Hope Academy is the only local independent school that is a member of Leader in Me, which she describes as “an evidence‐based, comprehensive school improvement model developed in partnership with

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educators and the Covey Foundation, which empowers students with leadership and life skills….”

“At Hope Academy, we believe it is our responsibility to develop the whole child, not focusing solely on academic achievement,” Blenden says.

“As part of our Leader in Me process, student leadership teams are used to help engage students in the routines and responsibilities of the school day.” This means students serve as greeters; lead the morning announcements, Pledge of Allegiance and school creed; provide input and plan schoolwide events; help in the library; contribute to maintaining the beauty of the campus and grounds and perform various classroom leadership roles.

As for Hope Academy educators, approximately 69 percent hold advanced degrees. Blenden is excited about the upcoming addition of Melanie Upton, who holds a master’s degree in educational leadership and has 27 years of experience as a teacher, instructional coach, and administrator. Upton will assist in instructors’ development as new trends emerge in education and technology.

“She will support Hope Academy’s continual quest to elevate instruction so that our scholars may achieve the highest levels of academic excellence,” Blenden says.

At the start of the year, Shannon Doughty began serving as a science coach, overseeing the continuing STEM (science, technology, engineering and

math) implementation in third through eighth grade. Schoolwide, reading, language and math curriculum are based on the ACT college and career readiness standards.

Blenden says her school’s robust STEM program, in conjunction with its fine arts offerings, help develop both creativity and critical thinking skills. To further its values of diversity and inclusiveness, she adds, Hope Academy observes traditions such as its annual Holiday Extravaganza, which features music and dance representing Hannukah, Kwanza, Diwali and Christmas.

The results of the school’s standards and practices, according to Blenden, speak for themselves.

“Hope Academy students are exceptional scholars and indisputable leaders,” she says, “both within the walls of our school and in the wider Gulf Coast community.”

THE DIOCESE OF BILOXI CATHOLIC SCHOOLS Living and Learning in the Light of Faith

ENROLLMENT FOR THE 2022-2023 SCHOOL YEAR NOW UNDERWAY

SCHOOLS • Largest private school system in the U.S. • 10 elementary schools; 5 high schools • National & state accreditation through MS Dept of Education & Cognia/AdvancEd • 520 highly-trained faculty & staff • Religion incorporated into all curriculum • Emphasis on forming intentional disciples of Christ • Open prayer throughout the day • Retreats & sacramental preparation • Family involvement welcomed & encouraged

STUDENTS • 4,413 total students • 2,616 in elementary school (Pre-K – 6 grades) • 1,797 in middle / high school (7 – 12 grades) • 71% Catholic students • 29% non-Catholic students • 12% receiving title services • 15% receiving free or reduced lunch • Over 100,000 ministry & service hours to church & community completed annually • Perform an average of 3 grade levels above national average on standardized tests in all grades

ACCOLADES • ACT scores consistently at least 6 points above state average & at least 3 points above national average • An average of $30 million in scholarships offered annually to graduating seniors • Over 100 Mississippi High School Activities Association State Championships • Named Top 50 Catholic High Schools in the U.S. • National Catholic Education Association (NCEA) – St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award (highest award given) • NCEA Outstanding Principal • NCEA Outstanding Pastor • NCEA Outstanding School Advisory Council • National Blue Ribbon Schools

LEARN MORE TODAY!

Schedule a visit to see the exciting things happening in our schools.

ELEMENTARY: Holy Trinity • Nativity BVM • Our Lady of Fatima • Resurrection • Sacred Heart D’Iberville Sacred Heart Hattiesburg • St. Alphonsus • St. Charles Borromeo • St. James • St. Vincent de Paul HIGH SCHOOLS: Our Lady Academy • Resurrection • Sacred Heart Hattiesburg • St. Patrick • St. Stanislaus

INDIVIDUAL SCHOOL INFORMATION: www.biloxidiocese.org DR. RHONDA CLARK, SUPERINTENDENT OF EDUCATION: rclark@biloxidiocese.org www.gcwmultimedia.com

83

PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE / 2022

Fostering lifelong learners COAST EPISCOPAL SCHOOL BUILDS ON 70-YEAR TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

T

hroughout its 70-year history, Coast Episcopal School has not strayed from its main goal: to instill a lifelong love of learning in each student and foster academic excellence.

“Our school provides a joyful, unique and nurturing Judeo-Christian community where students hone the life skills necessary to imagine and create a better world,” says Head of School Jake Winter.

Established in 1950, CES serves

Photograph by Ann Madden Photography

children ages 18 months through sixth grade at a 25-acre campus in Long Beach.

According to Winter, the school is a place where students are both supported and challenged.

“As an independent school, CES has the ability to define our own mission, set our own curriculum, and respond to the individual needs of each and every student in a way that matches his or her needs,” Winter says. “CES teaches students to learn through reading, writing, music, art and physical

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movement. The responsive and caring environment means that students feel supported to take risks, rise up to challenges and think critically about the world around them.”

The school has undergone numerous changes since its founding, including the unification of all students on a single campus in August of 2002. In 2008, a new toddler building was constructed for students ages 18 months to 3 years old. Last fall, CES debuted a transitional kindergarten designed to provide a "bridge year" for students who will benefit from an additional year of social development before entering kindergarten The Gail Keenan Art Center was introduced in 2011, providing a space for local and regional artists to engage with the students.

And it seems the center has had the desired effect.

In November 2020, artwork by six students promoting the safety of least terns and created by six CES students was selected in an Audubon Mississippi contest. Additionally, through December 2023, artwork by CES students, representing the theme “Artists Who Inspire Us,” will be displayed on the Youth Art Wall at the Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport.

Winter says CES’s commitment to the arts is something the school takes very seriously.

“In art class, students learn art

history and create works that teach about texture, color and other basics of art and design,” Winter adds, noting that students attend art and music classes twice a week. “This creates a foundational comfort with the arts, as well as a confidence in their own ability to create and think imaginatively that will last for a lifetime.” He adds that by sixth grade, all CES students are learning an instrument that they can continue into middle school and beyond.

CES’s curricula for kindergarten through sixth grade is STEAM-based, meaning it is focused on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics. Putting this instruction into practice, a sixth-grade team represented CES in February at the state-wide FIRST Lego League Competition, marking the school’s third year of participation; CES brought home the competition’s Innovation Project Award in 2019.

With a capital improvement campaign under way, Winter notes, CES has added new instructional spaces and introduced a new Makerspace.

“Made possible by the vision and generosity of Bill and Wynn Seemann, The Seemann Makerspace has been enriching the lives of students since 2019,” he says. “Here, students learn hands-on skills — from 3D printing and soldering to green screen movie-making and stopmotion animation — that deepen and expand their academic studies.”

The next phase of the campaign calls for renovation of the early childhood and elementary school campuses with an emphasis on sustainability and modernization.

As it embraces the opportunities of the present and future, Winter says the school is anchored by the principles of its past. “(CES's greatest strengths are) 70plus years of tradition in education, the school's commitment to its established mission, a faculty that is united in a passion for teaching and guiding students with positive reinforcement and a student body filled with cherished and engaged students.”

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85

PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE / 2022 PASCAGOULA GATEWAY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

2690 Jefferson Ave., Pascagoula (228) 762-4144 www.gatewaychristianacademy.info Preschool: PK 3-4-sixth grade Accreditations: Midsouth Association of Independent Schools Student/teacher ratio: 1:4 Annual tuition: $4,750 yearly for one child, $8,500 for two, $10,300 for three Discounts: If tuition is paid before February for the next year, the registration fee is $175 and $100 for each additional student Fees: Registration fee: $225 for one child and $100 for each additional student; curriculum fees: pre-K, $160; kindergarten, $170; first grade, $350; second-sixth grade, $350 Dress code: yes Religious affiliation: No religious affiliation required

RESURRECTION CATHOLIC SCHOOL

520 Watts Ave., Pascagoula (228) 762-3353 or (228) 762-7207 www.rcseagles.com Grades: PK 2-12th grade Accreditations: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA), other school associations Student/teacher ratio: 18:1 Annual tuition: PK 2, 3 and 4 (all-day rate), $5,846; PK 2, 3 and 4 (half-day rate), $4,220; non-Catholic student full year K-12, $7,755; Catholic student full year K-12th grade, $5,644.00 Discounts: two students, 7.5 percent; three students, 17.5 percent; four or more, 27.5 percent Fees: Approximately $600 Dress code: yes - uniform Religious affiliation: Catholic

OCEAN SPRINGS GRACE BAPTIST ACADEMY

3707 Bienville Blvd., Ocean Springs (228) 875-2093 www.gbaos.org Grades: PK4-12 • Additional information not available by press time.

ST. ALPHONSUS CATHOLIC SCHOOL

504 Jackson Ave., Ocean Springs

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March 2022

(228) 875-5329 www.stal.org Preschool: PK 1 - sixth grade Accreditations: AdvancED and Mississippi Department of Education Student/teacher ratio: 1:17 Annual tuition: varies Discounts: Catholic subsidy and scholarships available Fees: Registration fee of $325 by April 1 Dress code: yes - uniforms Religious affiliation: Catholic

TREEHOUSE MONTESSORI CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

921 Ocean Ave., Ocean Springs (228) 990-4160 www.treehousemontessorios.com Grades: first-12th Accreditations: American Montessori Society Annual Tuition: grades 1-9: $4,950; grades 10-12: $6,095 Discounts: 5 percent sibling discount Fees: enrollment fee: $150; field trip and supply fees vary Dress Code: yes, but no uniforms Religious Affiliation: First Presbyterian Church

BILOXI CEDAR LAKE CHRISTIAN PRESCHOOL

11555 Cedar Lake Road, Biloxi (228) 392-6279 www.clcalions.org Grades: pre-K: infant – PK 4 • Additional information not available by press time.

NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY ELEMENTARY

1046 Beach Blvd., Biloxi (228) 432-2269 www.nativitybvm.org Grades: PK 2 - sixth grade Accreditations: Cognia, Mississippi Department of Education Student/teacher ratio: 13:1 Annual tuition: Based upon age, see website for details.

Discounts: multi-child, active parishioner Fees: registration, textbook/ technology and fundraising Dress code: yes - uniforms Religious affiliation: Catholic

OUR LADY OF FATIMA

ELEMENTARY

320 Jim Money Road, Biloxi (228) 388-3602 www.olfschool.org Grades: PK 2 - sixth grade Accreditations: Mississippi Department of Education and AdvancEd Student/teacher ratio: 18:1 Annual tuition: Call the school or visit the website Discounts: active military, inquire in office Fees: Call the school or visit the website Dress code: yes - uniforms Religious affiliation: Catholic

D’IBERVILLE SACRED HEART CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

10482 Lemoyne Blvd., D'Iberville (228) 392-4180 www.shceschool.com Grades: PK 1 - sixth grade Accreditation: Mississippi Department of Education, Mississippi Department of Health, National Catholic Educational Association Student teacher ratio: 15:1 Annual Tuition: $4,200-$5,500 Discounts: family discounts Fees: registration fee $400 Dress Code: yes - uniforms Religious Affiliation: Catholic

GULFPORT CHRISTIAN COLLEGIATE ACADEMY

12200 Dedeaux Road, Gulfport (228) 832-4585 www.ccagulfport.com Grades: K 3 – 12th grade Accreditations: Mid-South Association of Independent Schools and Cognia Student/teacher ratio: 1:20 Annual tuition: $5,900 Discounts: multiple child discount Fees: registration, materials Dress code: yes - uniform Religious affiliation: Baptist

HOPE ACADEMY

1234 Alphabet Road, Gulfport Bayou View campus 55 51st St., Gulfport (228) 539-1234 www.hopeacademyfg.org/ Grades: Hope Academy, PK 2- eighth

grade; Bayou View Campus, PK 3 – PK 4 Accreditations: Cognia Student/Teacher Ratio: 16:1 Annual Tuition: Visit hopeacademyfg. com for current tuition rates Discounts: 5 percent for active military Fees: Non-refundable $400 registration fee.

Dress Code: yes - uniforms Religious Affiliation: none

ST. JAMES CATHOLIC SCHOOL

603 West Ave., Gulfport (228) 896-6631 www.stjamesgulfport.com Grades: PK 2 – sixth grade Accreditations: Mississippi Department of Education, AdvancED, National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Student/Teacher Ratio: 17:1 Annual Tuition: See school website or call for tuition rates.

Discounts: Second child and multiple children discounts Fees: See school website or call for more information.

Dress Code: Yes

Religious Affiliation: Catholic

LONG BEACH COAST EPISCOPAL SCHOOL

5065 Espy Avenue, Long Beach (228) 452-9442 www.coastepiscopalschool.org Grades: toddler – sixth grade, including transitional kindergarten Accreditations: Southern Association of Independent Schools, National Association of Episcopal Schools Student/Teacher Ratio: 7:1 early childhood, 10:1 elementary Annual Tuition: Please call for more information Discounts: sibling, active-duty military Fees: Technology and activity fees (vary by grade) Dress Code: Yes Religious Affiliation: Episcopal

ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY 4321 Espy Ave., Long Beach (228) 222-6000 www.svdpcatholicschool.org

Grades: PK2 - sixth grade Accreditations: State Dept of MS/ SACS- Advanced Ed Student/teacher ratio: 1:22 Annual tuition: Catholic, $4,425, non-Catholic, $5,525 Discounts: multi-family, Catholic rate Fees: $350 registration fee Dress code: yes - uniform Religious affiliation: Catholic

BAY ST. LOUIS HOLY TRINITY CATHOLIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

301 S. 2nd St., Bay St Louis (228) 467-5158 www.holytrinitycatholic.net Preschool: Pre-K - sixth grade Accreditations: Mississippi Department of Education Student/teacher ratio: 18:1 Tuition: active Catholic $5,006 Fees: registration $350 Religious affiliation: Catholic

OUR LADY ACADEMY

222 S. Beach Blvd., Bay Saint Louis ourladyacademy.com

Coast EpisCopal sChool Cherished and Engaged Students

• Toddler-Sixth Grades • Joy-filled, 25 Acre Campus • 7:1 Student-Teacher Ratio • Collaborative, STEAM-based Curriculum (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) • Seemann Makerspace • Gail Keenan Art Center • After School Enrichment/Lagniappe Classes • After School Care

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5065 Espy Avenue Long Beach, MS 39560 Photos by Ann Madden

228-452-9442

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87

PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE / 2022

Brilliant Childcare & Learning Center

A FULLY ACCREDITED CHILDCARE FACILITY WITH CHRISTIAN VALUES

We will jump through hoops for your children!

SPECIAL OFFERINGS: Learning Center | Tutoring | Summer Care NOW ACCEPTING ENROLLMENT FOR AGES: 12 MONTHS TO 12 YEARS OLD (AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM)

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March 2022

(228) 467-7048 Grades: seventh - 12th Accreditations: Mississippi Department of Education and AdvancEd Student/teacher ratio: 18:1 Annual tuition: $6,200$7,200 Discounts: Multiple child Fees: registration $350-$500 Dress code: yes - uniforms Religious affiliation: Catholic

ST. STANISLAUS HIGH SCHOOL

304 S. Beach Blvd., Bay St Louis (228) 467-9057 www.ststan.com Grades: Boys seventh – 12th grade Accreditations: AdvancEd/ Cognia (formerly the Southern Association of Schools and Colleges) Student/teacher ratio: 9:1 Annual tuition: Day: $8,550 | U.S. Boarding: $31,450 | Intl Boarding: $50,500

Discounts: financial aid available Fees: registration fee Dress code: yes - uniforms Religious affiliation: Catholic

WIGGINS GATEWAY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

908 Frontage Drive West, Wiggins (601) 528-5454 Grades: PK – 12th grade Accreditations: Mid-South Association of Independent Schools Student/teacher ratio: averages 1:10 Annual tuition: $2,750$6,800 Discounts: Same household multi-student discount Fees: registration and enrollment Dress code: yes - uniforms Religious affiliation: nondenominational

Now With Two Convenient Locations.

In addition to the Florence Gardens campus, a second campus in Bayou View will open this July.

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PreK2-8 89

or email us at www.gcwmultimedia.com info@hopeacademyfg.org

PRIVATE SCHOOL GUIDE / 2022

SEVEN questions TO ASK YOUR CHILD ABOUT SCHOOL FROM HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

W

ant the rest of the school year to be great for your child? One of the best ways to support his or her academic success is open, honest communication.

Here are several questions to ask your student that will help ignite his or her motivation and self-empowerment:

1. WHICH SUBJECTS INTEREST YOU THE MOST?

At any age, it is great to get students thinking about their strengths and the subjects they find enjoyable. Talk with your child about what grabs his or her attention, and be sure to take opportunities to note how different school subjects translate into different career paths.

2. WHICH SUBJECTS CHALLENGE YOU THE MOST?

You already may know the answer, but it is important to talk with your children about their thoughts on the matter.

The self-reflection will do your child good and can offer you the opportunity to bring up ideas on how he or she can make improvements.

3. WHAT TEACHERS DO YOU ENJOY AND WHY?

Even for elementary school students with a main classroom teacher, it's important to ask about the other teachers with whom they interact each day. This can give children insight into their learning style, too. If your high school student appreciates the math teacher's teaching style best, it may be because he or she likes hands-on practice opportunities. If your middle-schooler loves reading and the English teacher's lectures, it could be that his or her preference is auditory learning.

4. WHAT'S USUALLY YOUR HARDEST HOMEWORK?

Ask your children about homework that pushes them and how they generally like to approach it. This can foster some thinking around prioritization, which is critical for developing time management skills. It's also good to hear your child consider what homework challenges him or her the most and why.

5. WHAT'S THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THIS YEAR AND THE PRIOR GRADE? It's always worthwhile to help children recognize how they have grown, so if they have made strides since the prior grade, help them take note of what those are. However, if

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your child's grades or motivation have decreased since last year, it's still worthwhile to open the lines of communication.

What is different about the school setting from your child's perspective? The teachers and classes? Your child's attitude?

6. WHAT DO YOU FEEL THE MOST CONFIDENT/ LEAST CONFIDENT ABOUT IN SCHOOL RIGHT NOW?

While some children will open up when asked what they like and dislike about school, others won’t. Students may feel confident about a subject they don't necessarily like, so try reframing the question to ask about the subjects they feel they understand. It's important that children understand the link between feeling confident and success in school.

7. WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO IN EACH SUBJECT OR CLASS?

This question might encourage children to open up about what they've heard from their teacher(s) is on the short- and long-term horizon. Maybe there's something they're curious about, or a topic they hope their teacher digs into more throughout the rest of the school year.

As parents, it's easy to think that every conversation about school needs to involve talking about grades, homework and tests. While those are important topics to discuss, it's equally important to keep in touch with your children about what sparks their interest, what they find hard about school, what they think about the future and their curiosities. Keep asking those questions! The more you do, the more you'll notice your child sharing with you.

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CAREGIVERS’ CORNER

Simplify your life with technological tools DR. TRACY DANIEL-HARDY

Keeping all my obligations straight can be a daunting task, as I work full time, am actively involved in several organizations and am the primary caregiver for my elderly parents. I leverage technology to help me be more organized and efficient, allowing me more time to engage in self-care and reducing stress on everyone involved.

While many applications and devices are available for almost any task you can think of, I use a few consistently because of the features they offer, along with their userfriendliness:

CALENDAR APP AND VOICE ASSISTANT DEVICE

The calendar app allows me to key in the event, time and location and add any pertinent notes that I need to remember. If I am unsure how to get to the location, directions are conveniently provided within the created event when I enter the address. I also can set notifications to remind me. I often set multiple reminders for each event, a couple days before and a couple of hours before, in case I get caught up at work and lose track of time.

The calendar app is especially useful for collaborating and

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coordinating. It is very easy to share events and related information with colleagues and family. Sharing my personal calendar app with my work calendar app keeps all of my events synced and helps me determine my actual availability instead of just my work or personal availability. Many work and organizational commitments fill my calendar and my days, so I rarely can remember my calendar of events without assistance anymore.

That’s where the voice assistant device helps me. I have programmed the device in our bedroom to announce my calendar of events for the following day at bedtime. It both tickles and annoys my husband, but it is very helpful to me, as it prepares me for the upcoming day. Any event notifications that I have set in my calendar app also are announced through the smart speaker.

Additionally, my calendar app is set to send me a summary of my daily calendar of events in an early morning email that arrives around 5 a.m. This, too, is very helpful, as it is usually the first email I check when I get to the office or on my phone before leaving the house. Reviewing this email before any other communications helps me prioritize people and things throughout my day and lets me see what is on the calendars of key staff members.

NOTE-TAKING APP

The note-taking app has become one of my essential tools. I use it to write my Saturday senior tips, take

notes when I don’t have a notebook available, keep grocery lists, etc. I also keep notes and information about my parents in one password-protected note on my phone. In this file, I have lists of my parents’ old medicines, any new prescriptions and details of when they were added, pertinent contact information, login information for bill payments, medical notes from doctor visits, important pictures, etc.

My notes are organized by group (parents, work, etc.) and backed up in online storage to allow me to access them on any device, as long as I have internet access. I often share notes like the grocery list with my husband or meeting notes with team members. I also automate as many payments and processes as possible for myself and my parents to simplify our lives.

These tools are very helpful to me in caring for my parents and staying on track in my daily life. Most are available to download or use for free on any digital platform.

Dr. Tracy Daniel-Hardy is director of technology for Gulfport School District, as well as an author, caregiver, educator and educational technology leader. Reach her at tracy@drtracydanielhardy.com.

style

3

MAKEUP PRODUCTS ALWAYS WORTH repurchasing

BY LAUREN RILEY

We all have a favorite makeup product. It can be as simple as a Chapstick or a blush, but you must have at least one. I have three products that I can’t live without, my ride or dies, and if they’re ever discontinued, I will be so sad!

• Let’s get down to business with lips. Clinique Moisture Surge Lip Hydro-Plump Treatment is my all-time favorite.

If you’re anything like me, your lips get wind burnt and dry in the summer or constantly sunburnt in the summer. This product is not necessarily like a Chapstick, but more of a lip mask. Of course, I use it as a Chapstick, gloss, mask or anything else my lips need. I love to apply it before bed to help restore moisture.

• I love a good blush, one that is buildable for days when I need a little more color and sheer enough to be just enough on my lazy days. Tarte blushes really are the best; check out the shade Dazzled in particular. Seeing the pigment in photos or online does the color no justice. It truly is the best shade, and I am obsessed! Oh, and did I mention shimmer? Shimmer and blush just go together like cheese and wine. Yes, I love both of those, too.

• I always thought I had to purchase expensive mascara until I found Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara. I love the wand; its curved perfectly to follow the natural shape of your eyes. The waterproof mascara is no joke. They really mean waterproof! In this Mississippi heat, waterproof is a necessity most of the time.

As I was going through my makeup bag, thinking hard about what products I have purchased over and over, I realized I have always gone back to these three when I have veered away from them. They are my favorites of all time, but they may not be perfect for you. Remember that we all have different skin, and you should find your perfect products, too!

Lauren Riley is a makeup artist and hairdresser on the Coast, specializing in on-location wedding and event makeup, blondes and hand-tied extensions. Contact her or learn more at www.laurenrileyhairmakeup.com or facebook.com/laurenrileyhairmakeup.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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Plissé makes perfect

BY JASMINE BALL

By now, we all know I'm your go-to girl for the latest and greatest fashion fixations.

We tend to think of trends as referring to certain designs or styles, but they can include fabric choices as well.

Lately, I've been obsessed with plissé fabric. It’s an oldie but a goodie. More and more designers are working with this fabric and incorporating trending designs to create a more elevated look.

If you don’t know what plissé looks or feels like, think of it as a softer crinkle — or, by definition, “a fabric gathered into pleats that also has been known as crinkle crêpe.”

I love this fabric because it elevates a basic brunch outfit into something special that turns heads. The rich texture of plissé makes any piece look luxurious.

For example, the Tessa pleated top by A.L.C. is amazing. It’s on the pricier side, but this top is something extravagant. It is a fluid blouse that features long bell sleeves, a smocked high neckline and a simple keyhole back — perfect for taking your look from day to night.

My go-to is a plissé matching set (We love a matching set!). Spice up your look with a cute heel, or even a pair of sneakers.

I believe plissé is the next, best thing; it might even become an everyday staple in your wardrobe. Keep a close eye on this comeback fabric.

Tessa pleated top by A.L.C., $425

PrettyLittleThing cream plissé button front oversized shirt, $55

Missguided green co-ord plissé shirt, $19

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.

Unique Vintage cream clip dot plissé bodysuit, $58

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Cult Gaia Mala plissé pleat ruched ruffle sleeve top in palm, $398

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g n i l l i Sp her secrets AMBER LORD is no stranger to all things beauty. She has been in the beauty industry for 15 years and has owned her salon in Ocean Springs, Salon Rouge, for 14 years. Lord lives in Ocean Springs with her husband, Joshua Lord, and their three fur babies, where they also own Blue Dog Bistro.

Lord’s passion is empowering women daily and making them feel beautiful. Sharing tips, tricks and product recommendations allows her to do just that. Here are some of her favorites: HIGH-IMPACT EXTREME VOLUME MASCARA: Ladies, I have tried every

mascara out there, and I always return to this one. It doesn’t flake or rub off under the eye and is also great for sensitive eyes and contact wearers.

MAYBELLINE SUPER STAY LIQUID LIPSTICK: Looking for a lipstick that

will last all day? This is the one. It creates a high-pigment finish with 16-hour wear.

IGK’S GOOD BEHAVIOR SMOOTHING SPRAY: The phrase “I will not have frizzy hair,” is repeated all over the bottle, and rest assured you will not have frizzy hair when using this product. It is a keratin treatment in a can for 24 hours, and that is no lie. This is my favorite product

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right now. Here in the South, we are always fighting the humidity, so here is your answer, ladies. Oh, and it smells amazing!

Using a deep conditioner on a regular basis is a must for dry hair. This treatment is perfect to moisturize those dry locks in just 60 seconds.

IGK’S BEACH CLUB TEXTURIZING SPRAY: Needing volume or for your

FIRST AID BEAUTY ULTRA REPAIR CREAM AND NIGHT CREAM: Award-

curls to hold? Here’s your answer. This is your product to use before curling, when you just need some lift or if you want a textured, beachy wave look.

GOLDWELL JUST SMOOTH 60-SECOND TREATMENT AND TAMING OIL: This whole line is just

amazing for dry hair and smells like candy. If you have dry hair like I do, a serum/oil is essential. This one is great because it’s not too heavy but gives you the moisture you need.

winning Ultra Repair Cream is instantly absorbed for immediate relief for parched skin. It’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive, and great for the whole family. Formulated with colloidal oatmeal, this soothing moisturizer leaves your skin feeling smooth, hydrated and comfortable after just a single use.

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Painting with purpose INSPIRED BY NATURE AND POETRY, GALLERY OWNER DENISE HOPKINS SHARES THE POWER OF ART WITH OTHERS

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

W

hen a professor asked if art had saved her life — and how — Denise Hopkins didn’t have an answer.

But a decade after the question was posed to her art history class, Hopkins understood its point.

“Making art helped me navigate the messiest time in my life,” she says. “It helped me connect with other people, and it gave me a sense of both belonging and purpose. I am passionate about the power of art and sharing it with others.”

Now as the owner of Denise Hopkins Fine Art, located in Pass Christian’s Sazerac Square, her mission is threefold: “to contribute to and participate in the rich artistic traditions of the Mississippi Gulf Coast,

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to work with and support other local businesses to enhance the culture of Pass Christian and to provide a warm, welcoming and accessible art gallery experience to both avid art collectors and people who have never set foot in an art gallery.”

Hopkins embarked on her own creative journey upon receiving handmade coupons for art lessons from her great Aunt Catherine, a Carmelite nun who operated a studio in Lacombe, Louisiana. Not only did Hopkins redeem all of her vouchers, but she continued to study painting at Spring Hill College in Mobile, Alabama.

After six years of teaching art, Hopkins started selling her paintings online in 2014. That year, she was finalizing a divorce and found herself

the single mom of an infant son, for whom she now had to provide.

“After driving myself crazy trying to figure out what I was going to do, my ‘ah-ha’ moment came in the form of realizing art was a real career path, one I was passionate about and that I could learn the logistics of,” Hopkins says. “Opening the gallery has been an extension of that and a realization of the hard work I’d already put in.”

She casually searched for a brickand-mortar location for a couple of years before the perfect spot became available in the heart of downtown.

Customers come from all walks of life, from business owners to college students, and the gallery offers original oil paintings, as well as fine art reproductions.

Business hub in Kiln, MS since 1999

Owner Mary Ann Strickland travels the South procuring specialty items to stock the shelves of the store. Her expertise has been cultivated in areas of fashion, jewelry, lawn and garden, hardware, paint, tools and gifts galore. She invites you to experience this one of a kind store!

JUST 3 MILES OFF I-10 AT: 16320 HIGHWAY 603 | KILN, MS | 228-586-1379 www.gcwmultimedia.com

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“My work is very often inspired by nature and poetry,” Hopkins says. “I paint with knives instead of brushes to create rich and thickly textured paintings that I hope are full of wonder.”

At the heart of Hopkins’s work is her philosophy that art is for everyone, that it can spark joy, help navigate grief and bring people together. To her, it enhances not just a physical space, but mental and emotional space.

At its best, Hopkins explains, art “affirms something human in you and brings you somewhere worth going.”

“Every time I look at pieces of art I’ve collected from other artists over the years, I have a deeper sense of awe, and oftentimes calm,” she says. “Having received that gift and then being able to give it to others is the ultimate achievement.”

STOP BY THE GALLERY FOR FIRST FRIDAYS!

Starting Feb. 4, and continuing every first Friday of the month afterward, Denise Hopkins Fine Art will host a local musician, showcase new work and provide wine and cheese.

“I am really looking forward to our first Friday events because it is a way to build community,” Hopkins says.

“In five to 10 years, I hope people on the Coast are on a first-name basis with the gallery and describe it as a welcoming place to find a piece of art, just look around or attend a great community event.”

IF YOU GO: DENISE HOPKINS FINE ART 125 Davis Ave A1/2, Pass Christian (228) 222-4126 Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday-Tuesday, by appointment www.denisehopkinsfineart.com; Instagram and Facebook: @denisehopkinsfineart

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Layer up for spring Want to be comfortable as you move into the new season? Use layers to keep your look cute and cozy! Plus, you’ll be on trend, as layering is a key trend this spring. Carla Biasi, a shopping and styling professional (https://www.facebook.com/ carlabstyle), has created a transitional outfit that will take you stylishly into spring.

• A white denim jacket is a wardrobe must-have.

You can wear it over most tops and dresses.

Chico’s, $119 • Pastels are all the rage for spring. You’ll see them in all styles and clothing pieces, including denim jeans.

Dear John jeans in cucumber, Lee Tracy, $94 • A soft tee is the foundation of a layered look.

If you choose solid prints, neutrals or brights, you can’t go wrong.

Target, $8 • Be in style with a big carryall bag like this multi-colored one. Use it for going to the beach or running errands on the weekend.

Scout bag, Gabrielle’s, $45 • Go big or go home when it comes to jewelry.

Hoops continue to dominate, as well as candycolored hues. And silver is THE metal to wear this season.

Hot22, Sheila Fajl and Julie Vos jewelry, Lee Tracy, $22-$85

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Featuring Fun & Trendy Outfits For Women

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weddings

Top floral trends

Deliberating over floral arrangements for the big day? Take some inspiration from these top trends:

COLOR, COLOR, COLOR!

Color is making its way back onto the wedding floral scene. Brides are embracing vibrant color palettes and unique color pairings that reflect their excitement for their big day.

PANTONE PEEKING THROUGH

The Pantone Color of the Year for 2022 is “Very Peri” -- a very vibrant purple. While we sometimes see Pantone influence our bridal trends, this year it has reigned supreme with

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many brides asking for whites with a pop of lavender, lilac, and other shades of purple.

DOWN TO EARTH

The dried floral trend is here to stay, and it is showing up with even more variations. We are seeing dried florals paired with muted earth tones as a nod to the end of summer and beginning of fall. Flowers always look better when they follow the seasons in which they grow. When planning your event, remember that out-ofseason blooms can be pricey.

COTTAGECORE

Don’t be surprised to see this style popping up on your feed this year.

Bringing the outside in, these brides

Photo by Tilley Photography

are going for a romantic, bucolic look that incorporates fresh and dried elements, mixed floral prints and layers of texture. Lovely cones full of dried lavender for guests to toss at the send-off are a favorite from this trend.

ALTERNATIVE BOUQUETS

Unique and eclectic bouquets are a perfect statement piece for both bride and bridal party. If you’re ready to be bold and different, this is a trend you’ll want to embrace.

These can be easily incorporated into the reception décor following the ceremony.

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bluewaters_photography

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We established WHITE to help our brides take the stress away of trying to find adorable white attire year around. We carry an array of fun earrings, bags, luxury gift items, personalized bride and bridesmaid items, clothes, and more!

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health

If not now, when?

Don’t wait to make time for health and wellness

BY KAROL BRANDT

It’s March already! As we’ve gotten busy with life and the festivities of Mardi Gras season, most of us have not been laser-focused on our goals; am I right?

When the year started, weren’t you trying to get to the gym more, eat cleaner, make it to that yoga class and get up for that morning run? Then there’s that project you left simmering on the back burner, and the “me time” you’d resolved to carve out for yourself.

Does that sound all too familiar as we’re staring down spring?

Can you imagine how much less guilt, stress and frustration you would feel if you could somehow just make yourself do the things you don’t want to do when you are actually supposed to do them?

Just think how much happier and more effective you would be!

The good news is it’s not too late to reach your goals. You can get better about not putting things off if you use the right tools and strategize.

The biggest reason why we procrastinate is because we don’t “feel” like doing it. Most of the time, when we tell ourselves, “I just can’t get out of bed early,” or “I just can’t get myself to exercise,” what we really mean is that we can’t get ourselves to feel like doing those things.

The truth is, if not now, when? If you are putting something off because you don’t feel like it, remember: You don’t need to feel like it to do it. There is nothing stopping you.

and send our weight to one another. We discuss gain or loss and why the scale moved. We celebrate our successes and encourage each other when we hit a tough spot.

OWN YOUR TIME, AND STOP PROCRASTINATING:

Research confirms what we all know: The number-one reason people don’t accomplish certain objectives is a lack of planning and scheduling our time. So, own your time. Be passionate, deliberate and dedicated. Block time toward what you need to do, even if you don’t feel like it. Try to focus your afternoon or evening on cooking a healthy meal, preparing for tomorrow or some fun social time with family or friends.

TAP INTO TECHNOLOGY:

High-tech tools can help simplify your life and give you the time you need to finish that project or get to the gym. Take advantage of smartphones, watches, apps and other tools that can help keep you on track.

put things off that we don’t feel like doing, we become frustrated and stressed.

Ask yourself, “What goals do I need to focus my time on? What do I regret not achieving because I didn’t ‘feel’ like doing it? What are my priorities, and how can I utilize my time to accomplish them?”

Just answering these questions should motivate you to tackle the tasks you’ve been putting off.

This month, I challenge you not to skip out on the things you don’t feel like doing. Take time now for your health and wellness, If not now, when? You have the power to decide and do!

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

FOCUS ON THE BIG PICTURE:

It is easy to lose sight of the big picture.

But if we constantly get distracted and

Here are some tips to help you refocus on your health and wellness goals:

FIND SOMEONE TO KEEP YOU ACCOUNTABLE:

I have an accountability buddy, the person who holds me accountable. We weigh in together virtually every week

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Preventing cancer starts with you

BY DR. SIDRA KHALID

We are fortunate to live in a world where we can implement changes to help prevent cancer.

Mainly, we can adjust our lifestyle to help reduce our risk, which includes: • Exercising to maintain a healthy weight • Eating healthier foods, like fruits and vegetables, and avoiding foods rich in trans and saturated fats and red meats • Quitting smoking • Lowering alcohol intake • Using sunscreen Additionally, infections can lead to cancer. If infected with particular microbial agents, we could be at risk for developing certain cancers. Some such infections include: • H. pylori, an infection in the stomach, can cause stomach cancer. By treating the infection with antibiotics, this can be prevented.

• Hepatitis B and C can contribute to liver cancers. Immunization against Hepatitis B can help prevent cancer.

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Also, treatment for Hepatitis B and C can decrease your risk of developing liver cancers.

• HIV can lead to different types of cancers. Treatment of HIV is important for cancer prevention.

Make sure to stay up to date with regular health screenings from your primary care provider. For averagerisk people, screening guidelines are different than for those with a family history of cancer. The screening tests are individualized based on personal and family history. Hence, it is important that people stay in close contact with their providers, such as primary care physicians or oncologists, and follow their recommendations.

For average-risk people, some of the main screenings are: • Breast cancer screening: Breast self-exams are encouraged, and annual mammograms are recommended for women starting in their 40s.

• Colorectal cancer screening: All adults starting at age 45 need to get screened. The initial recommended screening test is a colonoscopy. If you are unable to do this procedure, a fecal

immunochemical testing (FIT) can be performed.

• Cervical cancer screening, PAP and HPV tests are important.

• Lung cancer screening: Current smokers or those with a history of smoking should talk to their providers about doing a CT scan of the lung.

If there is a personal or family history of cancer, please consult your provider about genetic tests, as many preventative strategies are available to decrease your risk. These strategies include preventive surgeries, chemotherapeutic agents and an individualized surveillance plan.

There are various things we can do to prevent cancer. Each of us must be vigilant in making personal lifestyle changes and staying current with our screenings.

Dr. Sidra Khalid is a physician with Memorial Physician Clinics specializing in hematology, oncology and internal medicine. Reach her at (228) 575-1234.

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ADVERTORIAL

LOVE YOUR LEGS AGAIN Are you suffering from varicose veins or spider veins? Now there’s an advanced process to minimize their pain and visibility. Memorial Vascular Surgery Consultants can help you enjoy warmer months with confidence, no referral needed!

HOW DO THE TREATMENTS WORK? Radiofrequency endovenous ablation therapy is a minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency energy to effectively treat patients suffering from varicose veins or chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). A provider will insert the ablation catheter into the diseased vein to provide consistent and uniform heat to contract the collagen in the vein walls, causing them to shrink and seal closed. Once the diseased vein is closed, blood will reroute to other healthy veins.

Sclerotherapy effectively treats varicose and spider veins, and it involves injecting a solution directly into the vein. The solution causes the vein to scar, forcing blood to reroute through healthier veins. The collapsed vein is reabsorbed into local tissue and eventually fades, typically within a few weeks.

HOW LONG DO THE PROCEDURES TAKE? Radiofrequency endovenous ablation treatments take approximately 45-60 minutes. Patients should expect the process to take up to two hours with normal pre- and post-treatment. Sclerotherapy sessions take less than 30 minutes.

ARE THE TREATMENTS PAINFUL? Most patients report feeling little, if any, pain during the procedures.

You will receive a local anesthetic to numb the treatment area during radiofrequency endovenous ablation treatments.

HOW QUICKLY CAN SOMEONE RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITIES? The average patient usually resumes normal activities within a few days. Most patients report a noticeable improvement in their symptoms within 1-2 weeks following the procedures.

HOW EFFECTIVE ARE THE PROCEDURES LONG-TERM? The success rate is 95-98% over the first three years.

ARE THESE PROCEDURES COVERED

BY INSURANCE? Many insurance companies pay for the procedures. No referral is needed.

Memorial Vascular Surgery Consultants provide diagnosis and treatment for a complete range of vascular disorders including, but not limited to: • Varicose veins • Heavy, aching, cramping, itching or swollen legs • Non-healing leg wounds or ulcers • Blood clots • Skin changes and/or discoloration

Learn more about MEMORIAL VASCULAR SURGERY CONSULTANTS and book your appointment by calling 228-575-1300 or by visiting WEAREMEMORIAL.COM.

MEET YOUR PROVIDERS Dr. Andrea Barker has been in practice for 8 years and is board certified in general and vascular surgery. She completed her vascular surgery fellowship at the University of Mississippi Medical School in Jackson.

She specializes in open and endovascular vascular reconstructions as well as management of dialysis patients and carotid disease.

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Dr. Joseph Graham is board certified and has more than 28 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from the University of Health Sciences medical school in 1993. He treats carotid artery disease, aortic aneurysm or dissection, and peripheral vascular disease.

Rachel ‘Evan’ Allen-Rydbeck, NP, graduated as an acute care nurse practitioner with honors from the University of South Alabama.

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MY TRANSFORMATION STORY:

Jill Stapleton

BEFORE MY TRANSFORMATION

Before my transformation, I knew that I was “letting myself go,” but I was at a point in life where I didn’t even care. I knew I wasn’t happy with how I looked or felt, but I was so unmotivated to make a change. I wasn’t in the best place physically or mentally for myself or my four children.

MY GOAL

I always have enjoyed working out but struggled with staying on track. The first goal I set for myself was to work out consistently (three to four days a week) for one year and to not let more than two days pass without some type of physical activity. The second goal I set for myself was to lose 30 pounds by the end of that year.

WHAT I DID

The first thing I did was eat at a calorie deficit and start tracking my calories.

When I first got started, it was during quarantine, and the gym was closed. I began going on walks or jogs around the neighborhood and working out with the equipment we had in the garage. Now, I go to the gym four to five days a week.

HOW IT WORKED

I found tracking calories to be effective for me because it allowed me to eat foods that I enjoyed in moderation. Therefore, it was more sustainable long term than a restrictive diet. Also, not allowing more than two days to pass without exercise of some sort gave me the grace of a break within the boundaries of staying consistent.

THE HARDEST PART

One of my biggest struggles was making the time. I have three very athletic sons who participate in sports yearround, which makes it easy to not make the time to work out. I had to be very

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BEFORE intentional in planning the week ahead and scheduling the days I would work out on my calendar, then showing up for myself.

HOW I FEEL ABOUT MYSELF TODAY

Today, I feel physically and mentally stronger than I ever have, confident and happy. Making this change has made me a better mom and more available friend.

When I first started, 30 pounds felt so far away. Now, I’m down almost 40 pounds.

AFTER Exercising has become a way of life, my outlet, and it is mine.

MY ADVICE TO OTHERS

Set realistic and trackable goals. Take “before” pictures, and be patient. On the days I feel unmotivated, I pull up my “before” pictures to remind myself how far I’ve come and motivate myself to keep pushing forward. Seeing results takes time. Stay consistent, and results will come. A year is going to pass anyway, so you may as well make it a year of progress.

Center for OB/GYN Dr. Watts is Board Certified and a Diplomat of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. Watts performs in all general areas of OB/GYN, including but not limited to: • Normal & High risk prenatal care.

• Vaginal and Cesarean deliveries.

• Open and laparoscopic hysterectomies.

• Minimally invasive procedures.

• General Gynecology • Birth Control

Aimee R. Watts, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. MAIN OFFICE OCEAN SPRINGS

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2113 Government St., Suite I-4

BILOXI OFFICE

(228) 374-3749

147 Reynoir St., Suite 102

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What’s causing my headache?

H

eadaches are such a nuisance! Thomas Jefferson would have to confine himself to bed for two to three weeks for his migraine attacks. Serena Williams, Carly Simon and Lewis Carroll all suffer or suffered from severe headaches. Statistically, 97 percent of all people have headaches, which makes one wonder how truthful the other 3 percent are, right?

There are basically four types of headaches. By far the most common are tension headaches. In our modern society, stress causes us to worry, and we respond with furrowed brows, clenched teeth and neck muscle straining.

This causes the muscles around our heads to tighten and become sore.

The pain of tension headaches is described as “hatband.”

There’s soreness in the forehead, both temples and the back of the head along the ridge where the neck muscles attach.

Many times, these areas are tender. Treatments include over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, massage of the sore areas and temperature packs — usually heat, although some find cold packs help more. Stress relaxation techniques, such as yoga and meditation, may be preventative. In other words, “Don’t worry, be happy.”

Humans have four pairs of sinuses in their skulls. These are caverns in the bone lined with mucous-producing tissues designed to catch foreign particles that we breathe in through our nose. Viruses, pollens and other allergenic molecules trigger increased mucous production, and when the sinuses get full or infected, they can cause pain.

The areas of discomfort are specific to the sites of the sinuses, which are just above the eyebrows, below the arches on the cheeks and in the nasal bridge. The fourth sinus set is behind the nose, which will cause pain behind the eyes. Inflamed sinuses will be tender when pushed on.

Nasal drainage may turn thick and green. Some people will get feverish, and most will have a cough. Sometimes the congestion will back up into the ears. Treatments for sinus headaches include decongestants, antihistamines and sometimes antibiotics. I often recommend fluticasone (Flonase), a steroid nasal spray that will get into the sinuses and decrease the allergic response.

Migraine and cluster headaches affect about 20 percent of women and 8 percent of men. The cause of these headaches is controversial, with some physicians maintaining they’re caused by spasms of the vessels in the brain and others laying the blame on neurological issues — that is, specific brain triggers. Some people have a prodrome or warning phase with vague symptoms such as food cravings,

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BY DR. PHILIP L. LEVIN

yawning or mood changes. Next might come the aura, several minutes to an hour of visual disturbances such as flashing lights or other neurologic symptoms like prickling in the skin, trouble speaking or limb weakness.

Both cluster headaches and migraines usually cause severe pain on one side of the head with a sense of it being deep inside, running from the back of the head and into the eye. However, the pain can be on both sides. Associated symptoms include sensitivity to light, sound and smells, and often nausea and vomiting. Interestingly, sometimes migraine headaches manifest with sinus headache symptoms. We no longer treat migraines with narcotics because nowadays, there are many effective preventive and therapeutic treatments — too many to go into in this article.

I said there are four main causes, but really, there are those three main ones and then a laundry list of others.

For example, trauma, exhaustion, electrolyte imbalance, anemia, poisonings, carbon monoxide and hypoxia all cause headaches. But the two main ones we worry about are brain tumors and internal bleeding. Brain tumors rarely cause early symptoms, as the brain tissue itself doesn’t have pain fibers. Brain bleeds from ruptured aneurysms usually are abrupt and severe, although those from a head injury may be much slower to show effect. These two causes, tumors and bleeding, require CAT scans for the diagnosis, although that test won’t show tension or migraine changes.

Headaches have a variety of causes. Most of the time, the diagnosis is apparent from where the head hurts and other associated symptoms. If your headache is sudden and severe, go to the emergency room. If it is persistent and worsening, it’s best diagnosed through your family physician.

Dr. Philip L. Levin is a retired emergency medicine specialist in Gulfport. Learn more or contact him at www.DoctorsDreams.com.

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ADVERTORIAL

MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM SURGEONS OFFER

REVOLUTIONARY TREATMENT FOR CHRONIC HEARTBURN

Are you part of the 20 percent of Americans who suffer from consistent heartburn or GERD? Memorial Health System general surgeons hope to provide relief to patients who have frequent, severe and disruptive heartburn.

Without treatment, this chronic condition can develop into gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which may lead to serious complications over time.

The LINX Reflux Management System is an alternative that helps GERD sufferers find relief in the form of a magnetic band instead of a pill. The LINX device is a small flexible band of magnetic beads (about the size of a quarter) that a surgeon wraps around a weakened lower esophageal sphincter in a minimally invasive procedure that typically lasts less than an hour.

Rather than stop the production of acid in the stomach, the magnetic device prevents acid from rising up into the esophagus by opening to allow food to enter the stomach and closing afterwards to prevent stomach contents from rising back up, just as a healthy lower esophageal sphincter would.

“Memorial is pleased to offer this revolutionary treatment to our patients,” said Dr. Derek Ware, Memorial General Surgeon. “LINX allows us to expand the multimodal approach to GERD, providing full evaluation and offering minimally invasive surgical options. By decreasing disease progress, we can improve patient outcomes for a condition that impacts many in our community.”

The LINX device is a magnetic band of beads, about the size of a quarter, that prevents reflux at its source.

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5 THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT LINX TREATMENT 1. The LINX Reflux Management System is a flexible band of magnetic beads about the size of a quarter that a surgeon wraps around a weakened lower esophageal sphincter, the valve or muscle that serves as the body’s natural barrier to reflux.

2. Once implanted in a minimally invasive procedure that typically lasts less than an hour, the magnetic band expands to allow food to enter the stomach and then contracts to prevent stomach acids from flowing back up into the esophagus.

3. Many patients are able to go home within 24 hours and are soon able to eat without restrictions and no longer need daily prescription GERD medications.

4. Studies show five years after a LINX procedure, 88% of patients report bothersome heartburn has been eliminated, 85% are free from dependence on daily reflux medication and 99% no longer experience regurgitation.

5. A 6-month study showed LINX treatment to be significantly more effective than twice-daily proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in relieving regurgitation, improving quality of life, reducing reflux episodes and eliminating the need for acid suppression medications.

A referral for this procedure is needed from a provider. To learn more, call Memorial General Surgery (228-575-1200).

DR. DEREK WARE AND DR. SCOTT BLACKBURN are board-certified general surgeons at Memorial Health System offering the LINX procedure to patients.

“I THANK GOD FOR THEM EVERY DAY” ENCOMPASS HEALTH MAKES CINDY STRAIGHT’S STROKE RECOVERY POSSIBLE On Dec. 14, Cindy Straight reluctantly went to the emergency room.

The 67-year-old mother and grandmother was having difficulty walking, felt nauseated and was slurring her speech.

Tests showed no signs of a stroke, but as the day wore on, Straight became more and more convinced that she’d had one.

“I could not move the left side of my body on my own,” she recalls. “1 was also starting to have difficulty swallowing, so it was feared that I would choke on food or drink.”

A swallow study showed that the left side of Straight’s esophagus was not closing, and further checks confirmed her suspicions: She had indeed suffered a brain stem stroke.

She stayed at Memorial Hospital until she was stable and then was transferred to Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital on Dec. 21.

Encompass Health, located in Gulfport, specializes in helping patients recover and regain their independence after a lifechanging illness or injury.

“From the very first day, I knew I was in good hands,” Straight says.

Occupational therapy taught her new ways to do everyday tasks, and with patience and guidance, Straight started regaining function in her fingers and she found that each day, she could do more.

“There were so many exercises that helped my mobility,” she says. “This was important because there were so many things that seemed impossible.”

In speech therapy, Straight was convinced no one would be able comprehend her, especially since she was wearing a mask.

“I was wrong; not only did they understand, but they took my speech in stride and never made me feel uncomfortable,” she says.

“From tongue twisters to crossword puzzles to just plain talking and reading aloud, I did all the seemingly little things that helped to improve focus and concentration.

“Slowly, my ability to speak returned.”

Physical therapy was the hardest, according to Straight, but very rewarding. From the start, the Encompass Health team’s goal was to prepare her to go home: which meant she would have to be able to get in a car and manage a 12-step staircase.

“One step at a time, I learned to do these things and more,” she says. “They built up my strength.”

Everything that she experienced at Encompass Health was done with care, confidence and safety, Straight says, and achieving little goals got her to the big goal of being discharged. She uses a walker to get around the house, and the emotional challenges are becoming easier to handle.

Although some obstacles remain, Straight firmly believes that thanks to the regimen set by Encompass Health, she will get back to normal eventually.

“My ‘I can’ list is getting longer than my ‘I can’t’ list,” she says. “Encompass has an amazing team of dedicated people, and I thank God for them every day.”

To learn more about Encompass Health, take a virtual tour and see the range of specialized programs offered, visit www.encompasshealth.com/gulfportrehab or call (228) 822-6965.

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

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WHEN SHOULD YOUR CHILD SEE AN EAR, NOSE AND THROAT SPECIALIST?

BY DR. PETER CASANO

If your child is experiencing issues involving the ears, sinuses, nose, mouth, throat or neck, he or she may need to consult with an ENT, or ear, nose and throat specialist. Here, ENT specialist Dr. Peter Casano answers questions about common issues he sees in pediatric patients.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON ISSUES YOU TREAT IN CHILDREN?

The most common issues that ENT doctors take care of for children would be recurring ear infections, recurrent tonsil infections and chronic sinusitis. Chronic sinusitis in children can be hard to appreciate because children so often have frequent colds that can be mistaken for sinus infections.

WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR TIMES OF THE YEAR FOR CHILDREN TO BATTLE THESE ISSUES?

Statistically children — and adults, too — have more upper respiratory infections in the late fall and winter. Upper respiratory infections most often are caused by viruses, but the inflammation, secretions and swelling they create can allow bacteria to gain a foothold and

lead to bacterial ear infections and bacterial sinus infections.

WHEN SHOULD SOMEONE CONSIDER BRINGING THEIR CHILD TO AN ENT SPECIALIST?

Your pediatrician is the expert when it comes to addressing most of these problems initially.

When ear, nose and throat problems become recurring or severe, it may be time to see an ENT doctor. ENT specialists can help decide if minor surgeries might be helpful, such as ear tubes or a tonsillectomy. In the evaluation and treatment of chronic nasal congestion, they can help you determine if the problem is allergies, infections or anatomic issues that might need more involved workups or treatment.

WHAT DO YOU WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT YOUR SPECIALTY?

I think many people think of ENT doctors as those who take out tonsils and put in ear tubes, and while that is true, we also have experience with the medical evaluation and treatment of pediatric patients who have stubborn medical problems. One common intervention that ENT doctors do is obtain bacterial cultures from the sinuses to help evaluate and treat chronic or recurrent nasal congestion. Distinguishing between frequent colds, allergic rhinitis and bacterial sinus infections can be challenging, but obtaining the correct diagnosis and treatment is critical when ENT problems become frequent and difficult to treat.

HOW HAVE YOU HELPED A CHILD’S QUALITY OF LIFE?

Recently, a child who had never gone more than a week or so without constant nasal discharge had been appropriately treated for allergies. Allergies are extremely common, so this is a very reasonable first step. The child did not respond well to the chosen allergy medications. We obtained cultures of the nasal discharge and identified a resistant type of bacteria. Once that was treated with carefully chosen medications, the nasal discharge finally cleared up. Now, she is off her allergy medications and has a clear nasal airway.

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Dr. Peter Casano is an ENT specialist with Memorial in Gulfport, and his practice concentrates on sinus and nasal problems. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit wearememorial.com.

EVERYONE AGES 5 AND UP IS

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For the convenience of our patients, Coastal Family Health Center provides direct insurance billing with private insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP. Sliding fee discounts are based on the size of the family and household income. Reduced pricing on pharmaceuticals is available. Coastal strives to provide quality, comprehensive patient-centered care regardless of one’s economic status. www.gcwmultimedia.com 123

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ORTHO IN THE 228 A 40 YEAR LEGACY

Founded in 1981, Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists has grown to 18 physicians with admitting privileges at all five local hospitals along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. A history of excellence by a renowned team of physicians has made Bienville the largest and most TRUSTED provider of orthopaedic care in our region.

Call 228-230-BONE (2663) to schedule an appointment and let us help get you back to doing the activities you love.

At Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists, we understand the need for sub-specialty orthopaedic care and have a team of fellowship-trained hand and wrist specialists to deliver cutting edge techniques, technology, and comprehensive care for patients with hand pain. From student athletes with a sports-related injury to elderly patients with arthritis and everyone in between, our fullservice hand center can get you back to living your life without pain.

SERVING THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST WITH 5 LOCATIONS: Gulfport | Biloxi | Gautier | Pascagoula | Hurley

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WOOLMARKET PHARMACY HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED! Drop by as we offer a variety of supplements for your health goals and check out our gifts while there!!

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BILOXI, MS 39532 | 228-392-5355

success

10 SIMPLE STEPS TO LAUNCHING A SMALL BUSINESS 6. DESIGN YOUR LOGO OR BRAND.

BY ROYAL SPRAGIO

Starting a small business can be difficult and stressful, but it also can be very fulfilling. While there is no hard-and-fast set of rules for starting a business, here are 10 tips to help you start on the right foot.

1. DEVELOP A BUSINESS PLAN.

Establish an achievable timeline for goals, materials needed, actions required and a revenue model for economic milestones based on your business model’s projections.

2. BUILD YOUR BUDGET.

Make it as detailed as you can. Compare this to your revenue model to see where equity injections will be needed to start up and where sustainability and profitability could be achieved. Realize that a budget is fluid and will require adjustment.

3. SEEK OUT PROFESSIONAL COUNSEL.

A great certified public accountant, attorney, insurance agent and banker are critical in guiding you through various issues you will encounter. They’re also critical in helping you avoid disaster. Budget for them.

4. BUILD A BARRIER.

File for your legal entity name and tax ID number with the state. Afterward, open bank accounts under this information and ensure you’re never comingling private funds with business funds.

5. LOGISTICS — AND MORE LOGISTICS.

Hire a graphic designer to do this. Obtain all AI vector, jpg, PDF, and other digital files. You will need them for whatever you want to place your logo on in the future.

7. MARKETING AND ADVERTISING.

By the time you open, you should have utilized every social media platform available. Build a business page on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc. Send invitations to everyone you know. In the first 90-180 days, pay for boosted ads to get your business name out there. Building a brand takes time, so keep at it!

8. FORGET WHAT YOUR COMPETITORS ARE DOING.

Run your business with integrity, tenacity, respect and appreciation for success, and you and your product will be in demand.

9. ANALYTICS AND EVALUATION.

Combing through every aspect of your business, at least monthly, is imperative. You can never look too deep. What worked, and what didn’t work? Were goals met, and where did you fall short? You will fail only if you don’t address your shortcomings and find ways to improve. Proof is always in the numbers.

10. BE DRIVEN, BUT STAY BALANCED.

Your business, in the first year or more, could consume your life. There is a fine line between professional success and personal failure. Take at least one day a week to forget the job and spend time with the people you love doing the things you love.

Royal Spragio is owner/executive principal with Coastal Select Insurance. Reach him at royal@coastalselectins.com.

Location (rented or purchased), internet, phone systems, software, office supplies, etc., everything you need to perform in your business, should be obtained, understood and in place before opening day.

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Creating a space to be creative

BY LASHAUNDRA MCCARTY

O

ver the past two years, the world has changed greatly.

With students learning from home and people working remotely during the pandemic, many of our spaces have been serving multiple purposes.

Our lifestyles have changed, and one of the challenges that comes with these changes is not having enough space. In this new normal, it may be hard to find a place to create or develop our next great idea. Our creative juices flow when we are unhampered, undistracted and not multitasking.

That can be a challenge if there is no place to escape that promotes creative expression.

For me the question became, “Where can I create that isn’t a ‘work space?’”

Sometimes I just need to walk away from the desk. As I looked around, I wondered, “Where can I create and not disrupt the flow of the house or take over a space that is really meant for something else?” I picked a corner and made it my indoor space.

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In my space, I have my favorite chair that I like to sit on to read, a journal, a drawing pad, a few coloring books, some colored and drawing pencils and a place for my cup of tea. It’s my breakaway area from technology. A lot of natural light enters this space, which keeps it light and bright. It doesn’t feel like work. The thoughts and sketches are just allowed to flow.

WANT TO CREATE A CREATIVE SPACE? • First, envision how you want your space to look. What color are the walls? What furniture do you want there? How will you store your supplies?

• Surround yourself with things that inspire you. This could be wall pops, photos, aromatherapy, music or anything that puts you in a mental space to create.

• Make a list. Decide what needs to be in your area. Are there particular pieces of art, books or supplies that you need? What do you want to be able to do? Is this space for painting, writing and designing, or simply a retreat where you can clear your mind?

• Lastly, set up your space and enjoy!

If you want to change something later, feel free. Remember, this space is for you. It can change if you want.

Make use of what you have, whether it is a room, a corner or an outdoor space. The important thing is not the size of the space, but the inspiration you draw from it.

LaShaundra McCarty is chief communication officer, LMc Communications.

Learn more and connect with her via www.lashaundramccarty.com or https://linktr.ee/lashaundra.

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ELEVATIONS OLSEN NAMED CHAIR OF GULFPORT CHAMBER The Gulfport Chamber of Commerce has announced its 2022 chair is John “Johnny” Olsen Jr. principal architect of LPK Architects P.A. in Gulfport.

A registered architect in Mississippi and Tennessee and graduate of Leadership Gulf Coast, Olsen has served on the Gulfport Chamber of Commerce board of directors since 2017 and primarily led its fundraising efforts, including two practically new events in 2021. He previously served on the Gulfport Main Street Association Board of Directors, including six years as president. He also was instrumental in the recovery and rebuilding efforts in Harrison County, specifically in Gulfport, following Hurricane Katrina.

Others serving on the 2022 Gulfport Chamber Board of Directors include: Nikki Johns: past chair, AGJ Sytems John Payton Hood: chair elect, Hancock Whitney Tracy Yanez: Gulfport Chamber director, Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Inc. Dr. Tom Wade: vice chair of finance, Gulf States Engineering Regina Wood: vice chair of Education, BancorpSouth Butch Simpson: vice chair of Military Affairs, Negrotto’s Gallery & Fine Arts Chris Estrade: vice chair of small business and economic development, Hancock Whitney

NICOLE MARTZ TO CHAIR COAST YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

Nicole Martz, Special Events and Promotions Manager at IP Casino Resort Spa, will serve as the 2022 chair of Coast Young Professionals.

Martz is a creative marketing professional with a degree in marketing and business management, as well as over 13 years’ experience in marketing within the fastpaced casino industry. She serves her community through volunteering with many local organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, American Cancer Society and Excel by 5. In her free time, she works to support tourism in her area by showcasing the Coast in her YouTube vlog, Gulf Coast Gal. Others serving on the 2022 board are: Hunter Easterling: past chair, Southern Insurance Professionals Jase Payne: chair elect, city of Gulfport Christen Hartley: treasurer, Bancorp South Gardner Hewes: policy and government chair, BancorpSouth Bank Morgan Bogolin: community service chair, Boys & Girls Club of the Gulf Coast Grace Russell: projects and networking chair, CMG Financial Annie Sanders: membership chair, Safe Haven Center for Domestic

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Dr. Cedric Bradley: vice chair of governmental affairs, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Bryan Jacobs: vice chair of membership, State Farm Insurance Brandi Hough: vice chair of communications and marketing, Harrison County Economic Development Commission Thomas Allen: board member, Eley Guild Hardy Architects, P.A. Penny Bishop: board member, RPM Pizza Sandy Comer-East: board member, Gulfport School District Katie Ellis: board member, Ace Data Storage Kaila Moran Griffith: board member, Mississippi Power Will Harvey: board member, Coastal Family Health Centers Josh McCall: board member, WXXV-TV Chaille Munn: board member, Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport Janell Nolan: board member, Coast Electric Power Association Lauren SantaCruz: board member, Memorial Hospital Emily Sham: board member, Two Men and a Truck Kendra Simpson: board member, Mississippi Aquarium Kathy Wall: board member, M2 Media Corp.

Stacey Weaver: board member, Singing River Health System Brian Lamar: ex-officio, Naval Construction Battalion Center Jase Payne: ex-officio, city of Gulfport – mayor’s office Deputy Chief Craig Petersen: ex-officio, Gulfport Police Department Jennifer Lee: honorary member, Island View Casino Resort

Violence Kimberly Livingston: leadership and learning chair, Harrah’s Gulf Coast Amanda Gray: communications chair, Singing River Health System Erin Rosetti: board of directors, Memorial Hospital Becky Bennett: board of directors, Chevron Federal Credit Union Brittany Ravenscraft: board of directors, Keesler Federal Credit Union Eric Granberry: board of directors, Currie Johnson & Myers P.A. Jessica Mallette: board of directors, Southern Company – Mississippi Power – Plant Daniel Jahquishia Easterling: board of directors, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Dr. Alesia Haynes: board of directors, city of Gulfport Melissa David: board of directors, Southern Miss Alumni Association Amanda Griffin: board of directors, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College Dr. Anthony Lopez: board of directors, Clear Families Chiropractic Scarlett Rogers Green: board of directors, The Peoples Bank Asset Management & Trust Services Taylor Wilson: board of directors, Gulf Coast Silk Screening Sawyer Walters: board of directors, Congressman Steven Palazzo

MICHELLE KINSEY CHOSEN TO LEAD LONG BEACH CHAMBER The Long Beach Chamber of Commerce has announced that Michelle Kinsey, building services supervisor at Mississippi Power, will be its

2022 chair.

Kinsey is responsible for the planning and execution of corporate events and for managing budget activities to fund operations and increase efficiency for conference services. She has oversight and ownership for waste and catering services contracts for MPC. She is also a member of Meeting Professionals International Inc. Others serving on the 2022 Long Beach Chamber Board of Directors are: Chip Vonder Bruegge: past chair, Regions Bank Colette Byrnes: chair-elect, The University of Southern Mississippi Robin Buch: board member, Southern Living Assistance Services Mia Stallings: board member, Hancock Whitney Angela Bowell: board member, FEMA Jennifer Glenn: board member, The First, A National Banking Association Stephanie Mathes: board member, The Corps Network Pam Sanders: board member, Bacchus Wine & Liquor Jessica Sekinger: board member, The First, A National Banking Association Philip LeBlanc: board member, Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty Guy “Tanner” Montella: board member, Coast Roast Coffee & Tea Donna Lishen: ex-officio, Century 21 J. Carter & Company Leigh Anne Meador: ex-officio, Long Beach School District

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131

ELEVATIONS MHASM NAMES BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The Mental Health Association of South Mississippi’s 2022 Board of Directors is installed and ready to serve.

The MHASM provides a day program for adults, homeless outreach and housing programs and educational opportunities, including Mental Health First Aid and Wellness Recovery Action Planning.

The MHASM 2022 leadership is as follows: Liz Hoop: president, Hoop Cares LLC Daniel Caridad: vice president, Back Bay Mission Cliff Hermes: secretary, Ocean Behavioral Health Cecelia Shabazz: Executive Member: Memorial Hospital at Gulfport Members: Amy Bateson, Trustmark Bank LaQuita Brown, Catholic Charities Jocelyn Lane, Premier Professional Counseling Megan Lockley, Gulf Coast Family Counseling Greg McCarthy, Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort Michael Mong, University of Southern Mississippi Eric Oliver, Future Design Group Loyal Ownes, Gulfport Behavioral Health

STARR CHAPMAN JOINS MISSISSIPPI FEDERATION OF REPUBLICAN WOMEN EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Starr Chapman will serve as secretary of the Mississippi Federation of Republican Women for 2022-2023.

After Hurricane Katrina, Chapman returned to Waveland in 2016 and opened Rum Kitchen, which received the 2018 Business of the Year award from the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce. In 2017, she created The Hemingway Festival to benefit The Ground Zero Hurricane Museum to encourage people to return to Coleman Avenue. She received the 2019 Restaurant Neighbor Award for Mississippi from the National Restaurant Association and advanced to the national awards.

In addition, Chapman sits on the boards of the Hancock County Chamber of Commerce, the executive board of the Hancock County Republican Women’s Club and the Hancock Republican Executive Club, She also sits on the church council of St. Clare and is an associate board member of the Hancock County Relay for Life. Chapman also co-created Dancing with the Relay Stars for Hancock Relay for Life and Krewe of MAP (a nonprofit open to all Hancock children).

COASTAL MISSISSIPPI APPOINTS JUDY YOUNG EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Coastal Mississippi has chosen Judy Young as executive director of the state’s coastal tri-county destination marketing organization.

Young brings over 20 years of experience in tourism program design, product development, marketing direction, convention and leisure sales, logistics and supplier management, department administration and advocacy with the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, most recently as the vice president of the Convention and Visitors Bureau in New Braunfels, Texas.

In her new role, Young will lead all marketing, sales, communication, and operational efforts at Coastal Mississippi and be responsible for the growth of the tri-county region’s leisure, convention, sports and business segments by developing and executing effective brand, marketing and sales strategies.

“I am very excited for the opportunity to work with the Coastal Mississippi Board of Commissioners and lead the incredibly talented team in promoting The Secret Coast, which is an extraordinary destination that has so much to offer,” Young says.

“I look forward to building on the momentum that Coastal Mississippi has seen thus far by growing and developing the region as a competitive, must-visit destination for leisure and meetings and conventions that continues to prove its leadership in the tourism industry.”

MILITARY ONE COAST INTRODUCES 2022 BOARD AND CHAIR JERRY TARANTO

Jerry Taranto, a U.S. Air Force veteran, will serve as 2022 chair of Military One Coast.

Taranto is a part-time consultant with experience in managing comprehensive public relations programs, congressional relations, contingency/crisis response

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MEET NICOLE BRADLEY, CENTER STAGE BILOXI’S NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Center Stage Biloxi is pleased to introduce its new administrative director, Nicole Bradley.

In this role, Bradley will work alongside the board of directors, volunteers and Artistic Director Chuck White to oversee the theatre’s day-today operations, including ticket sales.

Nicole was born and raised in Gulfport and attended St. John High School. She was co-owner of Taunt, a men's and women's boutique, that originally was inside the Hard Rock in Biloxi but moved to Gulfport in 2019.

Bradley’s mother, Perla, was Center Stage's administrative director for nearly 20 years, working in both the old and new theatre buildings.

DR. BRIAN CENTER JOINS MEMORIAL PHYSICIAN CLINICS

Memorial Physician Clinics welcomes Dr. Brian Center in the practice of radiation oncology at 1340 Broad Ave., Suite 140, Gulfport.

Dr. Center is board certified in radiation oncology. He received his doctor-of-medicine degree from Medical College of Georgia and completed his internship at East Tennessee State University and his residency at the University of Louisville. Dr. Center was fellowship trained at Wake Forest University.

actions and special event planning. He has served more than 30 years as a public affairs specialist both in uniform and as a government employee.

Taranto is also vice president of the Gulf Coast Veterans Parade and a board member of the Biloxi Chamber. In 2018, he served as the sponsorship and media coordinator for the Blues Over Biloxi Airshow.

He is a graduate of Mississippi Economic Council’s Leadership Mississippi, Coast Chamber’s Leadership Gulf Coast and Gulf Coast Business Council’s Masters Leadership Program.

Others serving on the 2022 Board of Direc-

tors are: Bonnie Sine: past chair, Nextaff Gulf Coast Kimberly Rasmussen: board member, Pugh’s Florist Nell Schmidt: board member, Keesler Federal Credit Union Elliott Voivedich: board member, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University DeAnn Alewine: board member, Gulfport Behavioral Health Butch Simpson: Gulfport appointed, Negrotto’s Gallery Framing + Art Carmelita Scott: Biloxi appointed, Woodforest National Bank

BRIDGES TAKES ON ASSISTANT DIRECTOR ROLE AT USM’S CHILDREN’S CENTER

Monica Bridges, speech-language pathologist at The Children’s Center for Communication and Development at The University of Southern Mississippi, has been promoted to assistant director. Bridges has been with The Children’s Center for more than 11 years and has served as both speech-language pathologist and transition coordinator.

“Monica has far exceeded expectations and goes above and beyond in everything she does for her families, for other professionals whose paths she crosses and for the staff at the Center,” say Sarah Myers, director at The Children’s Center. “And I have no doubt that the same will be true of this new role for her.

We are so fortunate to have her on our team, and I am excited and encouraged to see what the future holds for The Children’s Center with her in this role.”

When asked what the new role means to her, Bridges said, “I am so excited to have the opportunity to serve as assistant director for The Children's Center for Communication and Development. I truly love my job and feel blessed to get to work with such amazing children and families every day.”

PASS CHRISTIAN CHAMBER ANNOUNCES 2022 BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND CHAIR, CHRIS BOUDREAUX

The Pass Christian Chamber of Commerce has named Chris Boudreaux, owner of Chris Boudreaux Allstate Agency in Pass Christian, its 2022 chair.

Boudreaux’s nuclear medicine degree led him to the Coast in August of 2004 working for Coast Cardiology. He is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School advisory council, Long Beach Carnival Association, St. Paul Carnival Association and the Knights of Columbus.

Others serving on the 2022 Pass Christian Chamber Board of Directors are: Chuck Wood: past chair, Amy Wood Realty Kristen Garriga: chair-elect, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Shaw Properties Ollie Bailey: board member, Ollie Bailey State Farm Jamie Daniels: board member, Mississippi Power Shaninun Pittman: board member, Pass Christian Bookstore and Cat Island Coffee Holly Gibbs: board member, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Properties Travis Freeman: board member, Coast Electric Power Association Jo Wedgeworth: board member, Century 21 J. Carter & Company Suzanne Gibson: board member, Chemours DeLisle Plant Kyla Jacobs: board member, Pass Christian Olive Oils and Vinegars Ethan Smith: board member, VanKirk Wealth Advisors Dr. Mandy Lacy: ex officio, liason, Pass Christian School District

MIKE SLATER CHOSEN TO CHAIR CHAMBER CHAMPIONS

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce has announced the 2022 Chamber Champions and Chair Mike Slater, business development representative for the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services.

Slater previously worked at Sparklight for 34 years. Other members of the 2022 Chamber Champions are: Lindsey Calhoun: Edward Jones Lindsey Calhoun Sydney Davidson: United MSD Foundation Holly Hebert: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Panoramic Properties Annette Szobar: LegalShield – Annette Szobar Bridget Turan: Gulf Coast Community Foundation Stephanie Chapman: Kloud 7 LLC Joy Douglas: East Beach Specialties Inc. Lance Dodson: General Informatics Roxane Dykes: MS Lending LLC Tracy Lynn Stopson: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Properties Katherine Sutton: Mississippi Coast Model Railroad Museum Lauren Keenan: C Spire Kate Weatherly: Lamar Advertising Ashley Medina Tallyn: Merit Health Biloxi Randa Craig: Horne LLP Karen Morgan: Coast Transit Authority

ALLISON BEASLEY RECEIVES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AWARD Congratulations to Southern Mississippi Planning and Development District’s Allison Beasley Hawkins on receiving the 2022 Marsha N. Hamilton Spirit Award for Excellence in Economic Development.

Beasley was recognized at the Mississippi Economic Development Council awards luncheon on Feb. 3 in Jackson. The award recognizes extraordinary service in economic development and is given to the state’s most deserving leader in that field of expertise. Award recipients must display professional competency and consistent collegiality with their peers, model the highest degree of integrity at work and in the community and go beyond the norm in the input of time, energy and resources to further the goals of economic development in Mississippi and to bring honor to their profession in general.

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Five good reasons to review your insurance flood policy provide an inflation guard? Are your coverages consistent on all your policies? In some cases, you may even have more coverage than necessary.

BY ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE

Assessing your insurance policies regularly is as important as a good financial review, and here are the top five reasons why you should make it a priority: 1) CHANGES TO YOUR PROPERTY COULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE EVENT OF A CLAIM

Have you added a room to your home? Added a workshop to your property? There are so many simple changes you can make that are more significant than you realize when it comes to filing a claim. For instance, if you spend $10,000 on an addition but fail to inform your insurer to increase your coverage and incur a total loss later, the addition will not be included in your payout and can cause problems by delaying claim processing. Be sure to mention any updates you've made to your home regardless of how significant you think they are.

2) LIFESTYLE CHANGES MAY CALL FOR MORE OR LESS COVERAGE. Do you have any new household members?

Changes to your employment? Differences in your daily commute? These changes and many others may necessitate important adjustments to your coverage. In some cases, marriage, a safer job, a new home security system and so many other changes can be beneficial to your insurance and reduce your rate. Make a list of changes in your life to review with your insurance agent today.

3) YOU COULD HAVE TOO MUCH OR TOO LITTLE COVERAGE

Most people purchase an insurance policy when they buy their home, but never review the policy again after years of ownership.

Changes in building supply costs, to your home design or even to your home contents are just a few things that should be discussed with your insurance agent. Does your home or wind or

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4) YOUR BUSINESS MAY NOT BE ACCURATELY PROTECTED

In business, owners are very focused on day-to-day activities, and small business changes could impact insurance rates. Have you purchased new equipment? Have your sales increased significantly? Have you downsized in some way? If you have made any changes during the year, be sure to discuss these with your insurance advisor.

5) ADDITIONAL DISCOUNTS MAY BE AVAILABLE TO YOU

Insurance products change, and so do you. You may qualify for new discounts if a child moves out of your household, if you are reach an age where you are considered mature, if you fortify your home and for many other reasons.

Can your policies be bundled? Ask about discounts.

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.

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Divorcing?

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF FINANCIALLY

BY KATHY ROGERS

A

t age 17, I graduated high school and married my high school sweetheart. At the time, I never imagined my 29-year-old self as a divorced mother of two boys, partner in multiple businesses with my former husband and in need of a job outside of the businesses I owned. It was a very hard season of life.

I was fortunate that as the person who handled our finances, I knew what we had, where it was and how to access it. Many women don’t.

Unfortunately, divorce is on the rise among all age categories. If you find yourself in a situation where divorce looks inevitable, or you already are in the process of divorce, here are a few financial tips you should keep in mind.

WHAT IS YOUR FINANCIAL CONDITION?

Knowing your financial condition means you not only know how much money you have in the bank, but you know about and can access things like bank accounts, mortgage, investments, financial statements and credit card accounts. I recommend that you also have general knowledge about your taxes and know your certified public accountant. I keep an Excel spreadsheet containing all this information.

HOW WILL ASSETS BE DIVIDED?

Make a list of all assets with their current value and any debt

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associated with them. Assets include anything from your home, bank, retirement and investment accounts to things like cash value inside life insurance policies, vehicles, jewelry, recreational vehicles and household furnishings. I recommend you note any heirlooms and where they came from. What items do you want? Why? Discuss the distribution of assets with your attorney and CPA. Find out what you are legally entitled to. If you are entitled to a portion of your spouse’s retirement account, certain regulations must be followed to avoid paying taxes and penalties on the distribution.

HOW WILL DEBTS BE DIVIDED?

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for one spouse to learn the other has taken out loans or credit cards without his or her knowledge or consent. If you have debts in your name, only those debts could fall completely to you.

What about your home, vehicles, boats or other items? Whose name is the title in, and whose name is the debt in?

WHO PAYS FOR WHAT?

If you have minor or disabled children, what is your parenting plan?

Who has the final say, and how are decisions made regarding things like school, extracurricular activities and medical care (including professional counseling should it be necessary)?

Who is responsible for paying for those items; will all expenses be shared equally? Who pays for their health insurance and daycare? What about vehicles and insurance once they start driving?

If you plan to stay in your home until it is sold, who pays the mortgage and home maintenance expenses, and how will the equity be distributed when it is sold? Who gets which vehicle, and who pays the automobile insurance?

At what point does each spouse need to purchase his or her own insurance?

WHAT ABOUT YOUR INCOME?

Are you a stay-at-home mom? Do you home school? If so, how will you pay your bills? Will you need to get a paying job? What education and job skills do you have, and what kind of work would you like to do? If you work outside your home, will your income be sufficient to meet your projected expenses? What about child support and alimony?

I could point out many more financial considerations; I haven’t even talked about the financial aspects of a business you may own with your spouse. The list of things we could talk about is extensive.

I needed help walking through the divorce process. I needed to believe I would survive and come out stronger, that I had a support system that would go through the process with me. Don’t make life-changing financial decisions based on what your friends and family think. Set aside your pain, pride or anger and seek professional advice; allow your CPA, financial professional, divorce attorney, counselor or pastor to assist you. You will be glad you did.

Kathy Rogers is the vice president of Marston Rogers Group, a life planner and financial consultant. Reach her at (228) 206-5902 or Kathy@mrg.life.

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137

Squeezed by high grocery costs?

HERE’S HOW TO OFFSET THE PRICE HIKE

BY JANERA HARVEY

Budget is one of the most frequently used terms when it comes to money. Budgeting is encouraged so you can see where your money is going and where it could be used better.

So, let’s talk about the one item on everyone’s budget: groceries. This is an expense you can’t escape. We must eat to live, right?

Since the start of the pandemic, the cost of groceries has increased by 2.4 percent, and it’s estimated that in the first quarter of 2022, the overall increase will be 5 percent. This impacts your budget when you have a fixed amount to spend monthly on food.

Don’t let the cost increase of a main budget item affect your main course. Here are some tips you can try to weather the price hike: • • • • • • •

Plan simpler meals to cook.

Count those pennies as you place items in your cart.

Use what you have in your cabinet and pantry. Make meals based on what you have instead of buying more stuff.

If your household does not require bulk items, don’t buy them. For example, if it’s just you, don’t buy four-count bottles of ketchup, 24-count muffins, etc.

Pack and store it up in the freezer.

Limit brand-name foods as much as possible.

Buy more non-perishable food items with a longer shelf life

We may not be able to escape increased grocery costs, but we can control excess spending. Adjust your grocery shopping comfort zone and give your wallet some breathing room by being a purposeful shopper. I go to different stores based on their prices and quality, and if it’s not in my budget, I will not purchase it.

A FEW STRATEGIES THAT HAVE HELPED ME BE A MORE MINDFUL SHOPPER INCLUDE: • • • •

Starting a list instead of running to the store frequently Sticking to your list, no matter how tempting an item might be Not going grocery shopping hungry Making a price comparison

As you plan your food budget for you and your family, remember to shop according to your household. Buy items you need; save purchasing the items you want for special occasions.

Where there’s a discount, you’ll find your happy shopping place.

Janera Harvey is a money coach, certified credit counselor and owner of The Credit Journey LLC. Reach her at info@thecreditjourneyllc.com.

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March 2022

food & fun

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

White Pillars serves up pure

Southern hospitality

A

native of McComb, Mississippi, Chef Austin Sumrall has harbored a lifelong love of cooking.

His talent has earned him recognition as a James Beard Award semifinalist, considered the Oscars of food awards. He also holds the title “King of American Seafood” after his victory in the August 2021 Great American Seafood Cookoff, held in New Orleans.

Alongside his wife, Tresse, Sumrall owns and operates White Pillars restaurant and Lounge in Biloxi. Acclaimed by critics and foodies from near and far, White Pillars is known for its seasonal, locally sourced farm-to-table fare.

It’s elegant bar, the WP Lounge, serves craft cocktails and small bites.

Although the menu frequently features crowd pleasers like oysters 3-way, the bone marrow and steak burger and the smoked and fried chicken, Sumrall says, “We’re not sure that we have a ‘most popular dish.’”

“We change our menu often and with the seasons,” he adds. “I think people are excited to try something new when they come to White Pillars.”

Sumrall says he’s proud the restaurant showcases some of Mississippi’s finest artisans and farmers, noting that White Pillars tries to source as many products locally as possible.

“We also take great care to prepare as much as we

can ourselves,” he says. “Not only do we bake our own breads, churn our own ice cream and cure our own meats, but we even make our own ketchup from whole tomatoes and hot sauce from whole peppers.”

Even the restaurant’s dishes and tables are special, each piece having been handcrafted and custom-made for the restaurant, while unique pieces by Mississippi artists even adorn the walls. The goal for Sumrall and his team is to imbue every detail of a White Pillars dining experience with meaning and sentimentality.

“We pride ourselves on celebrating not only the exquisite products available to us, but also the farmers, fisherman, and artists that dedicate their lives to their products,” he says. “We feel as though our thoughtful sourcing and approach to food sets us apart.”

White Pillars is open Wednesday-Saturday from 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m., (lunch stops from 2-5:30 p.m.), Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and is closed Monday-Tuesday. Every third Sunday, the restaurant has its increasingly popular drag brunch.

To learn more about the restaurant and stay up to date on its offerings, visit biloxiwhitepillars.com.

“We’ve always got new and exciting dishes at White Pillars,” Sumrall says. “You’ll have to come by to see!”

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Biloxi Blues

Ground Zero Blues Club brings soul, excitement to South Mississippi

BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Spread the word: Biloxi’s got the blues.

Given its location at the end of the Mississippi Blues Trail, Biloxi is a fitting place for the second location of Morgan Freeman’s Ground Zero Blues Club. As of press time, the longawaited eatery and music venue was set to celebrate its grand opening on February 18.

“Although the Coast is not known specifically for the blues, it did traditionally host many Blues musicians in the nightclubs that boomed in the post-World War II era,” says General Manager Angie Ladner. “Ground Zero Biloxi takes its place in that shared blues heritage while bringing its own distinct offerings to the table and stage.”

Now occupying the historic 20,000 square-foot Kress Building on Howard Avenue, Ground Zero Blues Club has three stories, all of which open to the stage below. Ladner says the plan is to open each floor in phases, with a VIP area in the works. The walls are filled with music memorabilia, including signed guitars and relics from famous bluesmen.

“We have a huge emphasis on customer service, but also on enjoying life and having fun,” Ladner says. “Like a lot of the Coast and the blues, it’s meant to be an enjoyable escape — with a little bit of decadence.”

She describes the menu as “a modern take on some great Southern staples, with a strong coastal vibe.” Guests can savor delectable treats such as boiled peanut hummus, crawfish fitters or a blues collar plate featuring a slow-braised smoked pork belly, cast-iron black-eyed peas, simmered turnip greens and Delta johnny cakes.

“It’s a delicious menu and sure to please,” Ladner says.

The drink menu is equally fun with lots of twists on traditional cocktails. Ladner’s favorite is the Feel’in Luckett, a bourbon, sweet tea and limoncello concoction named in honor of Bill Luckett, one of the co-founders of the original Ground Zero in Clarksdale.

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Of course, music will be at the heart of Ground Zero Blues Club, and Ladner says the venue eventually will offer nightly entertainment. Many of the staple performers from the sister club in Clarksdale are expected to perform regularly in Biloxi.

“Because of the space, larger bands will be able to perform here as well,” Ladner says. “We’re looking at some really great bands coming this way. Some of our approaching acts include Django Knight, Lucious Spiller, and Rashad and the Blues Kid.” Having worked for several event venues in Mississippi.

Ladner’s career has allowed her to indulge her lifelong love of music and provide special experiences for both musicians and their audiences. She says her latest role combines many of the things that have shaped her life and are dear to her: blues music, celebrating the Coast and the magic of live entertainment.

Plus, the project contributes to the ongoing revitalization of downtown Biloxi. “(Ground Zero Blues Club) adds a great venue and compliment to the offerings of the existing nightclubs and casinos,” Ladner adds. “Mississippi has such a rich musical and culinary heritage, and this is another way to honor it.”

IF YOU GO

Ground Zero Blues Club Biloxi 814 Howard Ave, Biloxi (228) 910-6600 Will be open Wednesday through Saturday for lunch and supper, and shows in the evening For further details, visit http://www.groundzerobiloxi.com/ and check www.facebook.com/groundzerobiloxi/

Enjoy 15% off our Gift Cards Lunch & Dinner Specials Jerk Tuesday – Wings, Chicken, Turkey Legs & Fish

Try Our Specialty Cocktails!

Downtown Biloxi | 273 Caillavet Street, Biloxi MS 39530 bonfirerestaurant.net | 228 - 271 - 6830 Wed & Thurs 11am - 7pm | Fri 11am - 8pm | Sat 11am - 9pm | Sun 11am - 6pm

Per ez Owners, Pepe -Gollot & Lilian Per ez

10027 CENTRAL AVE, D'IBERVILLE, MS

(228) 396-0044

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MAKE DELICIOUS MEMORIES AT

Cornerstone Restaurant

BY CHRIS DEARMAN

If you are looking for a sophisticated, yet casual, high-quality Southern dining experience, look no further than Cornerstone Restaurant.

Owner Tommy Jackson opened the eatery in Pascagoula in 1997 as a small sandwich shop and deli, then he expanded the menu with seafood and steaks shortly thereafter. Jackson moved his restaurant over the bridge to Gautier in January of last year with a fresh new look and two dining rooms.

“For over 24 years, through different names, locations, and menus, one thing has remained constant at Cornerstone: our commitment to excellence,” Jackson says. “That commitment starts when you walk through our front door. Our kitchen staff has a combined 100-plus years of experience preparing incredible food for multigenerational families. Their skills are showcased in each dish that emerges from our kitchen.”

The Cornerstone menu showcases the flavors of Mississippi and highlights the Coast with selections like Gulf shrimp, Mississippi farm-raised catfish, coastal oysters, crab claws, chicken, po’boys, halfpound burgers, salads, appetizers and more. The restaurant also is the home of the “greater tater,” a three-pound spud packed with turkey, ham, cheese, bacon, onions, mushrooms, sour cream and butter that is a meal on its own. A vegetarian version also is available.

On my visit, I started with the backlash shrimp, a popular dish featuring deep-fried shrimp in a light flour breading, tossed in sweet and spicy sauce and served over a bed of lettuce, green onions and tomatoes. After enjoying the sweet heat, I can see why they are a favorite of the Cornerstone regulars.

For my entrée, I had the daddy’s catch from the seafood specialties portion of the menu, which is grilled or blackened catch of the day fish topped with grilled shrimp and a delightful Cajun sauce and served with grilled vegetables, regular or sweet potato fries or a baked potato that can be upgraded to a greater tater. My blackened flounder was cooked perfectly and paired well with the rich sauce and tender, well-seasoned shrimp.

A visit to Cornerstone wouldn’t be complete without experiencing their newest addition, a full-service bar called The Launch. Besides beer and wine, the restaurant’s expert mixologists can serve more than a dozen specialty cocktails. The multitude of televisions throughout The Launch make it ideal for

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any sports fan.

A highlight of my visit, as I consider myself a bloody mary connoisseur, was Cornerstone’s bloody mary menu, which offers the opportunity to customize your cocktail by letting you build your own from over 30 different options. Pick what you want, and the bartenders will make it for you. You can keep it simple or make it a meal by including items such as an 8-ounce sirloin, chicken tenders, grilled shrimp, stuffed crab, crab legs and claws and more. Build it up high, and it’s the perfect social media photo opportunity. I definitely will be back to build more.

“We aspire to create a warm and memorable dining experience for our customers,” Jackson says. “Our employees do their best to make each and every customer, locals and tourists alike, feel welcome and comfortable. We want to make everyone who visits our restaurant feel special.”

Cornerstone Restaurant is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner. Chicken tender, fried shrimp or fried catfish lunch specials are available every day from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., and there’s also a kid’s menu. Be sure to check out the dessert case at the entrance, where you will find a variety of sweet treats. The turtle cheesecake I took home was divine.

IF YOU GO

Cornerstone Restaurant 332 Highway 90, Gautier (228) 497-1000 www.cornerstonegautier.com www.facebook.com/cornerstonegautier

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Roberts Place

A homey foodie oasis filled with loving memories of Tuskegee Airman Lawrence Roberts and Community Icon Lucimarian Roberts

Specialties Include: • DOT’S FRENCH TOAST • THE RRR SPECIAL (Robin Roberts’ Fav) • THE PASS OMELET • ROBERTS PLACE BREAKFAST

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233 Davis Ave. Pass Christian, MS 228.222.4031

Be sure to stop next door at Robin’s Nest in the Pass!

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BY ROBIN KILLEEN

Childlike, not childish Can you remember being a kid and the excitement of a new day, which would bring so many new possibilities? Can you remember those nursery rhymes and fairy tales, and how we believed that all stories had happy endings? Close your eyes and see what childhood memories come to you Before society molds us and shapes us, we are children.

This is our one shared experience. We may end up in different places as adults, but we all started on a common level at birth — childlike.

Matthew 18:3 says unless you become as a child again, you will not inherit the kingdom of heaven. This does not mean there is anything wrong with maturing and growing up in Christ. We all need to be constantly learning and growing. However, there is a big difference between remaining childlike and being childish.

In this verse, our Father did not mean we need to act juvenile. Rather, He wants us to demonstrate childlike traits that help us draw closer to Him. The best way to distinguish between childlike and childish is to understand their meaning. These words are both associated with the characteristics of a child, but there is a huge difference between them.

The word childish typically has a negative connotation and refers to behavior in which someone acts selfishly or immaturely. Conversely, the word childlike is most often used in a positive sense. For example, childlike qualities are

innocence, honesty, purity and trust.

In 1 Corinthians 13:11, Paul says, “When I was a child, I spoke as a child. I understood as a child; I thought as a child. But when I became a man, I put away childish things.” Growth and maturity in Christ involve putting certain childish things behind us. “You are only young once” is a statement we’ve all heard — but let us not stay immature indefinitely.

We should strive to remain childlike, not childish, and retain our sense of wonder and amazement. Our Father wants us to have a childlike heart filled with innocence, purity and true love for God and others.

Surprisingly, becoming more childlike can lead to greater maturity. By expecting without requiring, accepting without judging, being honest without being cruel and drawing on the strengths of our friends, we can become more joyful, content, gentle and relaxed. So, when Jesus says we should be like children, he wants us to experience the joy of relying on God and completely trusting him — to be wise and mature in our thinking and decisions while remaining childlike in our hearts.

Robin Killeen is founder of W.O.W. (Women of Wisdom).

W.O.W. meets every second Wednesday of the month at noon at the Knight Nonprofit Center in Gulfport.

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FIVE QUESTIONS WITH

Mercy Housing and Human Development making the biggest purchase of your life, who wouldn’t benefit from a class to help them make the best decisions?

Here, we talk with Julie Egressy, executive director of Mercy Housing and Human Development, about how her Gulfport-based organization helps guide people toward financial health and home ownership.

WHAT DOES MERCY HOUSING AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT DO? WHAT IS ITS MISSION?

Mercy Housing & Human Development a 501(c)(3) Housing and Urban Development agency working to make a difference in our community in housing and economic initiatives.

MHHD’s mission is centered around financial literacy education programs to help our community reach financial health, attain financial goals and achieve sustainability through certified HUD classes, such as homebuyer and postpurchase education, rental, credit and budget counseling and loss or foreclosure mitigation.

Through our programs, clients can access down payment assistance for qualified home buyers or get help keeping their home if they are in financial disparity or foreclosure. We also offer health care navigation help and are a year-round IRS tax site that provides free tax preparation.

Although our programs focus on low-to-moderate-income clients, we invite everyone to benefit from our programs, as everyone at some point has financial disparity. And really, as a potential new homeowner

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WHEN AND WHY WAS MERCY HOUSING AND HUMAN DEVELOPMENT FOUNDED? Mercy Housing was founded in 1997 by the Sisters of Mercy and has been a vital hub in the Mississippi Gulf Coast nonprofit arena for over 20 years. The Sisters of Mercy already have an educational presence on the Coast with Sacred Heart Girls High School, Mercy Cross and Saint Patrick schools. They work throughout our community in responding to contemporary needs, such as adult financial education, to help strengthen and grow our neighborhoods. Building better, financially healthy lives, one by one, creates a stronger community.

WHAT IMPACT HAS YOUR ORGANIZATION MADE ON THE COMMUNITY? Mercy Housing often is referred to as the “best-kept secret” because people may not discuss their financial woes and need for help. However, if you unlock the secret and take advantage of opportunities, change can happen.

There is nothing better than congratulating a new homeowner, feeling the relief of those who almost lost their home, increasing a client’s credit score or helping a client reach a savings goal. We do and see that daily.

Our clients do the work with our help, and we and our community celebrate their success. We change people’s lives daily. We partner with many banks, nonprofits, national organizations and

initiatives for reinvestment opportunities for our clients — and ultimately, our neighborhoods — to promote economic growth and opportunity.

From children’s car seats and health insurance to down payment assistance and disaster relief, our programs provide a hand up, not a handout. Our clients must grow and prosper; our economy and community grow in turn.

We have helped many people buy that first home and start their journey. Homeownership changes lives.

WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED OR GAINED

BY BEING INVOLVED IN THIS ORGANIZATION?

Just like physical and mental health, financial health matters.

I have learned that everyone has financial problems, from the unemployed to those making six figures. People struggle at every level.

I am humbled by our clients who just want to live a better life. Although I have worked all my life around finance and felt I was very knowledgeable, when I first sat in on the homebuyer’s class, I was amazed how much I didn’t know and wished I had known before buying my first

house. I believe everyone can learn something from our programs.

ANYTHING NEW OR UPCOMING THAT YOU’RE EXCITED TO SHARE? Our programs have remained consistent, but fresh, over the past 20 years; they are driven by best practices and success. As a HUD agency, our programs came front and center during the pandemic and hurricanes Zeta and Ida. We were able to enact recovery relief in funding and resourcing very quickly.

We are preparing to open our VITA tax season for 2021, which provides free tax preparations. We keep up with the new opportunities in housing and financial programs to help our community strive and thrive. Check MHHD.org for updates and a list of our programs and resources.

BRANDI STAGE PORTRAITURE High Quality Dynamic Photography

The Brandi Stage Portraiture Team creates an extraordinary experience and stunning images for our clients.

Individual & Family Portraits Headshots Personal Branding & Content Creation Editorial & Advertising

228-344-3230 www.brandistage.com

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Smile Gulf CoaSt Implant, Cosmetic & General Dentistry

At Smile Gulf Coast, we pride ourselves on caring for your physical and emotional well-being in a relaxing and friendly atmosphere.

In our practice, you will receive advanced and comprehensive dental care in total comfort.

Ross Buntyn, D.D.S. and “Randy” Buntyn, D.M.D. 1203 Government Street • Ocean Springs, MS 39564

228.875.3343

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email: SmileTeam@SmileGulfCoast.com www.SmileGulfCoast.com March 2022