Gulf Coast Woman September 2021 by Gulf Coast Woman

COMPLIMENTARY

SEPTEMBER 2021

HOME & Real Estate SPECIAL EDITION BUY LIKE A BOSS

Susan Siemiontkowski

TRENDY NEW HOMES BUILD OR WAIT? CUSTOM STONE LOOKS GORGEOUS PAINT HUES

THE GO-GETTER OF REAL ESTATE

COAST’S HARDEST-WORKING WOMEN | MESH TREND IS A SHEER DELIGHT

Dr. Michael J. Christie and Dr. Aimee R. Watts are pleased to welcome Dr. Amber L. Glenn

Kelly Mask F.N.P.-C. Board Certified Nurse Practitioner

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

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

CENTER FOR OB/GYN 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

September w w w . m 2021 ichaelchristiemd.com

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FOUNDER

Dr. Angela Bruni

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Dorothy P. Wilson

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Sherry Moxley Seaman

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER Crystal Scretching

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR/WRITER Jennifer Gentile

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jasmine Ball Debora Batchelor Karol Brandt Chris Dearman Lilian Gollott Dr. Tracy Daniel-Hardy Janera Harvey Sandra Coleman Johnson

Melanie Jones Dr. Jeffrey Noblin Tara Pederson Lauren Riley Kathy Rogers Angelyn Treutel Zeringue Dr. Pam Tuli Kathy Brown van Zutphen

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Brandi Stage

BUSINESS SOLUTIONS TO HELP YOU

Farrah Underwood

ON THE COVER

COMPLIMENTARY

GROW

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

SEPTEMBER 2021

HOME & Real Estate SPECIAL EDITION

Susan

BUY LIKE A BOSS HOMES TRENDY NEW

Photographer: Brandi Stage Portraiture Makeup: Kasper Ly Hair: Kasper Ly

BUILD OR WAIT? CUSTOM STONE

LOOKS

GORGEOUS PAINT

HUES

ki SiemontowsER THE GO-GETT OF REAL ESTATE

COVER SUBJECT Susan Siemontowski

A SHEER DELIGHT | MESHING TREND -WORKIN G WOMEN COAST’S HARDEST

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September 2021

COMPASSIONATE

DR. STEPHANIE FUSSELL

CARE RIGHT HERE AT

DR. OLIVIA HIGHTOWER

HEMATOLOGY ONCOLOGY PARTNERS provides care to cancer patients and also those with blood disorders. We are dedicated to helping you and your loved ones focus on your health, while we focus on offering the latest treatments available.

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 Ave Wiggins

228-575-1234

Hematology Oncology Partners

Memorial Physician Clinics www.gcwmultimedia.com

THISEDITION

contents HOME & REAL ESTATE / 21 HEALTH / 82 WEDDINGS / 100 STYLE / 104 SUCCESS & MONEY / 113 FOOD & FUN / 127

5 things you don’t know about

BRITTANY REESE / 113

Where to find fresh Italian dishes / 127 September 2021

Pellegrin creates one stop for brides / 104

NEW! Caregiving insights from Dr. Daniel-Hardy / 82

Home to the MS Coast’s only Gynecologic Oncologist We fight ovarian cancer, so maybe one day September can just be September again. September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. You’re sure to see teal ribbons, lists of signs and symptoms, and more—but do you know where you can get the best care on the Coast? Singing River is home to the Mississippi coast’s only Gynecologic Oncologist, Dr. Michael Finan, a specialist in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of women’s cancers. When you or someone you know is diagnosed with cancer, know that the best doctors, latest procedures, and most cutting-edge technology are right here at Singing River Cancer Center.

Michael Finan, MD, FACS Gynecologic Oncologist & Medical Director of Singing River Cancer Center

Quality cancer care is just a phone call away. Gulfport Cancer Center • 228-575-8006 Ocean Springs Cancer Center • 228-872-1641 Pascagoula Cancer Center • 228-809-5251

SingingRiverHealthSystem.com

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STOP THE SPREAD If you have COVID-19 symptoms, call us.

COVID-19 Hotline

(228) 867-5000 8

Get tested. Stay home.

September 2021

Don’t Hesitate.

Vaccinate. I got vaxed for my family.

Go to WeAreMemorial.com to find

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS for testing & vaccinations.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

www.WeAreMemorial.com

DR. DASHA PARKER COWART

Comment shared with us about her: “Our co-medical director for the hospitalist group at Memorial. She is constantly spread so thin, selflessly serves on our COVID service whenever necessary and is constantly volunteering to fill in a spot even on her off days.”

KARI WILKINSON

Comment shared with us about her: “Hardest working woman I know. She can be sick, not feeling the best, but still get out there to help cut down fallen tree limbs after a storm. She’s BECCA VANDERFORD an amazing role model for the younger generation of women!”

TAYLOR DENNISON

Comment shared with us about her: “She is an inspiration and role model for thousands of women, trailblazing new dreams and heights for women in a highly dominated male world.”

Comment shared with us about her: “This girl was working a full-time teaching job while in graduate school and still managed to make it to the gym at least three to five days a week!”

THE COAST’S HARDEST-WORKING WOMEN Our social media fans think they know! As we celebrate Labor Day, let’s highlight some of the women nominated for recognition

LASHONDA CRAWFORD RUPERT

Comment shared with us about her: “One of the only Black-owned esthetician and permanent makeup instructors/operations here on the Mississippi Gulf Coast for the past three years, with a newly opened esthetics and PMU salon and institute.”

Comment shared with us about her: “Owner of Nextaff, founder of United MSD (multiple sulfatase deficiency) Foundation, who is going to find a cure; wife and mother of three amazing girls.”

AMBER OLSEN

Comment shared with us about her: “She works tirelessly — seven days a week and all hours of the day and night — as a director of a brand-new senior living facility on the Gulf Coast. She gives her job, employees and residents everything she has.”

BRITTANY ZENGARLING 10

September 2021

REDEFINING THE VIP EXPERIENCE E.I.P. and Scarlet cardholders in Scarlet Pearl’s Pearl Rewards program have access to the most exclusive VIP experiences on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

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

www.gcwmultimedia.com

Go Big. Go Gulf Coast.

NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO REGISTER!

Classes begin september 20, october 18 & november 15.

mgccc.edu/enroll

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

MGCCC ANSWER CENTER: 228-896-2536/questions@mgccc.edu

September 2021

FINDING HER CALLING Lucedale’s Alexandria Murry lands her dream job after graduating from MGCCC’s Welding Technology program Alexandria Murry is working in her dream job, welding at a company in Pascagoula. “I love my job! Welding is the best decision I ever made. I learn something new every day and that’s really what makes the best kind of job.” Murry is a graduate of the Welding Technology program at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s George County Center in Lucedale. She completed the program in June 2021. “The best thing about my time at MGCCC was my welding instructor, Mr. Pierce,” she said. “He supported me 100 percent, as he did with all of his students, even though my welding knowledge was limited. If we had any question, he was there to explain and guide us. When we succeeded, he was very proud. As soon as I got my job, he was the first person I called.” Murry grew up in a family that moved around frequently because of her father’s construction jobs. “I was homeschooled throughout junior high and high school and learned a lot about the places we lived in, the culture of each place. From the mountain tops of North Carolina to the beaches of Florida and the beautiful sunsets over San Antonio, I was able to learn so much about other people and myself. I am glad to be back home in Lucedale and have more stability.” After completing high school, Murry was indecisive about what to do. “Welding was really a spur-of-the-moment idea. I didn’t know a thing about it but was curious. My dad came home talking about it a good bit, so I thought I’d give it a try. After talking to Mr. Pierce at the George County Center, I was hooked.” Murry said she is unsure of what her future holds but knows that welding will continue to be a part of her journey. “Welding has given me choices. I can learn all of the different types of welding and maybe one day be a project manager. The future is wide open for me.”

“I love my job! Welding is the best decision I ever made. I learn something new every day and that’s really what makes the best kind of job. - Alexandria Murry FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE WELDING TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM, www.gcwmultimedia.com call or email the MGCCC Answer Center at 228-896-2536/questions@mgccc.edu.

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

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September 2021

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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The gentle giant MOM OF STAR ATHLETE REVEALS THE LOVE BEHIND HIS GRIDIRON GLORY BY JENNIFER GENTILE

On the day he entered the world, Derick Hall wasn’t expected to live. Born at 23.5 weeks, weighing 2 pounds, 9 ounces, Hall was placed on life support with a litany of critical health problems, including bleeding in the brain and underdeveloped organs. “The doctor’s prognosis for his life was grim,” recalls Hall’s mother, Stacy Gooden-Crandle. “They said he would never walk, never talk, and he would be 85 percent mentally (disabled) if he lived. They said he would live in a vegetated state.” But mother and son chose to fight as he made daily strides that first week. Although Hall was released to go home after five months, the struggle was far from over. He didn’t walk until he was 18 months old due to developmental delays, and a difficult journey filled with speech therapy, physical therapy and endless doctor appointments lasted for over three years. Nonetheless, Gooden-Crandle knew her boy was destined for greatness. “I saw his work ethic and determination,” she says, “so yeah, I can say I knew he would accomplish anything he put his mind to.”

At top: Derick Hall with his sister and mom, Stacey Gooden-Crandle Middle: Derick Hall at signing ceremony Below: Derick with sister R’hana

September 2021

In her athletically gifted son, Gooden-Crandle sees a “gentle giant” who is funny, outgoing and adores his family. An avid outdoorsman, he can be found fishing into the early hours when he comes home to the Coast. When he’s on the field, Hall has a habit of seeking out his mother in the stands. “I see his eyes glance around the stadium until he finds me, and the smile on his face is by far the best feeling in the world,” GoodenCrandle says. “My son is proof that God’s grace and mercy still exist.”

FAITH THROUGH ADVERSITY

As Hall’s star continues to rise, the attention has taught him and his mother to have a thick skin and not take criticism to heart. That approach served them well after GoodenCrandle got flack for a comment she posted during the 2021 NFL Draft: “Derick, we are up next.” While many respondents were supportive, the remark — meant as a testament to Hall’s hard work and her sacrifices to get him to this point — also attracted some negativity. Wanting to set an example for her children, Gooden-Crandle recognized the importance of responding properly and not retaliating with OVERCOMING THE ODDS unkindness. So she was proud, but not surprised, when “I love to share my story of how I overcame Hall graduated at the top of his class from a lot of adversity in my life because if I can Gulfport High School with a 3.76 grade-point encourage my children to live without regrets average while playing three sports, plus and fear of what other’s think, I feel like I have Amateur Athletic Union basketball at a high done my job,” she says. “My family is strong, level. She likewise celebrated when he became and we walk in strong faith that God will see us Gulfport High’s first-ever Under Armour All through anything.” American and went on to become an NFL Gooden-Crandle also believes that with God’s prospect while playing for the Auburn Tigers; help, Hall can realize his dream of graduating she knew Hall had it in him all along. next summer, playing for the New Orleans Hall is equally impressed by his mother, social Saints and becoming a civil engineer once he service program coordinator for The Salvation retires from the NFL. According to GoodenArmy, who overcame a cycle of generational Crandle, “Derick is a giver,” so she’s sure he’ll poverty, was one of the first college graduates in find ways to give back as he achieves ever more her family and juggled being a single mom, full- success. time employee and student. “With all the prestige of being a high-profile “Mom, I love you so much; you mean the world athlete, he has remained grounded and humble,” to me,” Hall told a packed audience at his Allshe says, “and I just know being humble is who American selection ceremony. “Without you, I he is and who he will continue to be.” don’t know where I’d be right now.”

Women’s cancer is not always

PINK C ar i n g. H ea lin g . Gu id in g . Ever y st e p o f t h e way.

In reco gnition of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, The Medical Oncolo gy Group (TMO G) wants to make you aware of the warning signs of the disease. Sign s are usually subtle such as an upset stomach, ab dominal bloating, change in bathro om habits, decreased app etite, weight change or p elvic discomfort. If you exp erience any of these symptoms and they p ersist, see your do ctor for further e valuation. In addition to exp ert, all-encompassing oncolo gy and hematolo gy treatment, we consider it our p ersonal resp onsibility to stay by our patients’ sides every step of the way. We oversee every asp ect of a patient’s care. Ab ove all, we serve as a guiding light so our patients always know they are never alone.

Bay St. Louis • Diamondhead • Gulfport (2) • Biloxi (2) • Ocean Springs • Wiggins Acceping new patients at all locations to serve you.

Lauren Hitt, NP Pamela J Tuli, MD Sidra Khalid, MD Edye Denius, NP

Bay St. Louis • Diamondhead • Gulfport (2) • Biloxi (2) • Ocean Springs • Wiggins Acceping new patients at all locations to serve you.

Pamela J Tuli, MD Lauren Hitt, NP Pamela J Tuli, MD Sidra Khalid, MD Sidra Khalid, www.gcwmultimedia.com 17 MD Hamza Minhas, MDEdye Denius, NP

UPCOMING EVENTS SAVE THE DATE! Booker Fest

Biloxi Seafood Festival

Sept. 3-5 100 Men D.B.A. Hall, Bay St. Louis the100menhall.com/collections/ tickets/products/bookerfest-2021

Sept. 11, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 12, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Biloxi Town Green $5 admission, kids 12 and under free facebook.com/ biloxiseafoodfestival/

This second annual event will celebrate the musical genius of rhythm-and-blues keyboardist James Booker. The Fest, an annual fundraiser for the maintenance and preservation of the 100 Men Hall, will feature gospel tribute by the St. Rose de Lima choir, a piano tribute by two New Orleans piano greats, Josh Paxton and Tom Worrell, a piano night with Joe Krown Trio, a concert with Sunny War, a screening of Lily Keber’s acclaimed documentary on Booker, “Bayou Maharajah,” and end with an outrageous drag brunch in Booker’s honor.

The annual Biloxi Seafood Festival, the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce’s biggest fundraiser, is a celebration of the city’s seafood heritage. Attendees will enjoy live entertainment, arts and crafts and the best seafood on the Coast.

State of the County Address

AFSP Mississippi Gulf Coast Out of the Darkness Walk Sept. 18 7:30 a.m. Mississippi Coast Coliseum, Biloxi afsp.org/chapter/ mississippi#events

7:30 a.m. (doors open) IP Casino Resort, Biloxi mscoastchamber.com or (228) 604-0014 Harrison County Board of Supervisors President Beverly Martin will deliver a keynote address outlining the state of the county.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s Out of the Darkness Walk is a journey of remembrance, hope and support. It is meant to unite communities and provide an opportunity to acknowledge how suicide and mental illness have affected our lives and the lives of those we love and care about.

Frets for Pets

$10,000 drawdown

Aug. 6-8 The Juke Joint, Ocean Springs This Tito’s Vodka-sponsored benefit will raise funds for animal shelters while showcasing local music, arts, and businesses. There will be face painting, dunk booths, prize giveaways, puppy kisses, contests and much more. See fretsforpets.com for more details.

September 2021

Sept. 18 6-9 p.m. Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, Biloxi maritimemuseum.org or (228) 435-6320 Tickets for two: $100 The drawdown is the museum’s major fundraiser of the year and will begin with cocktails at 6 p.m. A silent auction will be available online at www.event.gives/ msimdrawdown21, and guests

also can bid on items in person. In addition, the event will feature food, an open bar, door prizes and a chance at winning $10,000.

Hummingbird and Nature Festival Sept. 23-25 Pascagoula River Audubon Center, Moss Point https://pascagoula.audubon. org/events/hummingbird-andnature-festival Celebrate the beauty of fall migration with this special event featuring a native plant sale, hummingbird banding, storytelling, vendors and more.

University of Southern Mississippi Symphony Orchestra season opener Sept. 30 7:30 p.m. Bennett Auditorium, Hattiesburg (800) 844-8425, southernmisstickets.com events/hummingbird-andnature-festival The USM Symphony Orchestra opens its 102nd season with a moving night of hope and new beginnings. The program will feature Aaron Copland’s “Appalachian Spring,” the triumphant “Fanfare for the Common Man” and “Carmen Variations,” a medley from Bizet’s opera comique performed by trumpeters Christopher Moore and Mark Clodfelter. The season, titled “Uncharted Territory,” explores the complicated landscape we face coming out of the pandemic. A concert a month is planned throughout the academic year, with the season finale on April 21.

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

LAND SALES ON THE RISE For a while, land has been hard to sell, but in the last 18 months, there’s been a lot of changes. For one, there’s low inventory, especially in new construction. Also, prices have increased and buyers are exploring their options. If they are not going to get a great deal on a house, then why not buy land and build. Also, smaller builders understand that lumber prices will eventually level out, so they are scooping up vacant lots so they can be prepared to build when the time comes. These conditions have created a high demand for vacant lots and land. So, if you’ve been sitting on land, and paying taxes every year, this may be the right time to put it up for sale. So if you’re interested in exploring your options, I’d be happy to talk to you about land, or any other real estate need you may have. Please feel free to give me a call or text today.

Ken Harshbarger, Realtor

NextHome Simplicity Cell: 228.343.3665 | Office: 228.357.5888 Ken.Harshbarger@gmail.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

Shop in-store or online!

Scan me to shop our online collections! 20

September 2021

228.875.4842 www.wpsheltonjewelers.com 1516 Government St.

home & family

HOME & Real Estate SPECIAL SECTION

Photograph by Brandi Stage Portraiture

Susan Siemiontkowski

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COVER STORY

Photograph by Brandi Stage Portraiture

The go-getter of real estate

Listing, marketing and selling are some of Susan Siemiontkowski’s favorite things BY JENNIFER GENTILE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRANDI STAGE PORTRAITURE

uilding her own house from the ground up not only gave Susan Siemiontkowski her “home sweet home” — it sparked her passion for real estate. At the time, the Toms River, New Jersey, native was working for a publishing company in Michigan profiling the top commercial construction projects across the country.

September 2021

While vacationing on the Coast in spring of 2005, she and her husband, Anthony, fell in love with the area and soon after put their Michigan property up for sale. As it turned out, the company that built her family’s Gulfport home needed a sales and marketing manager to spearhead its expansion. Siemiontkowski, who’d been working in sales and

"Every home is someone’s dream home." marketing since the age of 17, was up for the challenge — but little did she know the position would affect the trajectory of her life and career. “Working for a local builder helped me appreciate all that is involved from start to finish,” she says. “It also made me realize how important the new home journey is to every homebuyer. “I was fortunate to be able to join many buyers on their journey while helping the company grow through marketing and coaching sales representatives. In other words, it was all my passions rolled into one.”

GUIDING FAMILIES THROUGH THE NEW HOME JOURNEY

The experience showed Siemiontkowski that nothing is more rewarding to her than helping a family in their search for a new home. Today, as a Realtor and new home specialist with Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty, she uses her sales and marketing expertise to match people with the right properties. “I have a new perspective on houses now,” Siemiontkowski says, “and that is, ‘Every home is someone’s dream home.’” While building her own home, she found that the process had many highs and lows, “most of which I wasn’t prepared for.” There were months of decisions, delays and sometimes costly mistakes that needed correction …,” Siemiontkowski recalls. “The experience left me on a mission to provide understanding to those buying a home while being on hand from start to finish.”

GO-GETTER AND PERFECTIONIST

By Siemiontkowski’s definition, a Realtor is someone who learns about the location and current market conditions to give buyers and sellers the up-to-date information they need to make the best decisions. When hiring a Realtor, she advises, make sure they listen to your needs and those of your family.

To aspiring Realtors, she offers these words of wisdom: “Have fun and treat your clients like family, but never underestimate the amount of work involved in being a Realtor. It’s a huge responsibility, and I promise you, you’ll never know everything about real estate — so be open to learning every day.” Having known Siemiontkowski for over three years, Karen Glass, managing broker with Coldwell Banker Alfonso, calls her a go-getter, hard worker and perfectionist who clearly loves what she does. “She knows what buyers want,” Glass says. “She stays active out there; she hears what people are looking for, and she communicates that back to the builders.” Praising her colleague’s vision and attention to detail, Glass says Siemiontkowski is also an effective communicator and marketer whom she’s enlisted to teach social media classes. “She is shy but outgoing at the same time,” Glass adds. “She wants to please, and she’s disappointed in herself if she doesn’t think she’s satisfied somebody.”

‘YOU DID THIS’

Siemiontkowski’s conscientiousness has fostered long-lasting relationships with buyers, sellers, builders, contractors, suppliers and others. One memory she cherishes most is participating in the St. Jude Dream Home project and seeing so many join forces in the fight against cancer. Another is a neighborhood Christmas party she attended in a community where she sold homes. “I guess one of the homebuyers could see the emotion on my face as I sat and watched the friendships evolve; she turned to me and said, ‘You did this; you brought us all together,’” Siemiontkowski recalls. “I’ve since sold several of those homes, and the feeling of family has never waned.” Quality of life is deeply important to Siemiontkowski, who delights in staying busy with her husband of 16 years and their two dogs, Rocky and Sophie. Her future goals are simple: To help families buy and sell real estate while helping businesses and individuals grow. “It’s funny, I learn more from them than I could ever teach,” she admits, “but that will be our secret.”

SUSAN’S TOP 5 HOMEBUYER TIPS

Get pre-approved and have it in writing – A preapproval letter shows you have spoken with a lender, and based on your finances and credit, you’re ready to buy. Depending on the sellers, a quick closing may give you an advantage.

Search homes under your budget to leave room to bid up – If you only look at homes at the top of your budget, you risk being outbid or going outside your desired price point.

Look at value vs. price – When making an offer, have your Realtor determine a fair market value range. Lowballing in a seller’s market may cause you to lose your dream home by alienating the sellers.

Don’t fall in love with just one house – Do what you can to buy the home, but have a backup if it falls through. Create a point system when viewing homes, and highlight the top three.

Be prepared to leave a larger deposit – Not always advised, but it’s a great negotiating tool when you’re up against multiple offers.

www.gcwmultimedia.com

Buying like a boss in a

seller’s market Susie Siemiontkowski

Is it ever wise to buy sight unseen? Why or why not? Siemiontkowski: When it comes to new construction homes, I would say in a hot market and on a deadline, yes. I would be a little more cautious with an existing home. Before deciding, I highly recommend reviewing the property condition disclosure statement and asking your real estate agent for a virtual tour. McIntyre: During these crazy times, yes, it’s ok to buy sight unseen. We all go on Amazon and sites like it to purchase items without seeing them first. Also, many military families buy overseas without seeing the properties. It’s just important to have an agent do a video tour and answer any important measurement questions, such as, “Is the bedroom large enough for a king bed?” or “Will the laundry room be big enough for a dog kennel?” Salter: Only if you have complete trust, respect and confidence in your Realtor … honestly, I don’t recommend it. Seeing pictures of a property can be deceiving. As a Realtor, I would not want to make that decision for my client. 24

September 2021

Thad McIntyre

Maria Salter

Many real estate professionals exclaim that they’ve never seen anything like the 2021 housing market. Thanks to a nationwide shortage, properties are selling for thousands over the asking price and sometimes being snapped up within hours. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median price for existing homes increased by 23.6 percent nationwide in May, compared to last year, and properties typically sold within 17 days. So, what’s a buyer to do? Susie Siemiontkowski, Realtor and new home specialist with Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty; Thad McIntyre, broker, owner and Realtor with Powermark Properties; and Maria Salter, Realtor with HL Raymond Properties, answer your burning questions about succeeding in a seller’s market.

How do you know it’s the house for you? Siemiontkowski: Firstly, you walk in, and it feels like home — but then there’s location. You can’t move a house, so if the home needs a little work, create a list, and see if it overwhelms you or your budget. If not, it may be the one. McIntyre: This question is almost a loaded one. The right house just “speaks” to you. You feel a connection to the house, and then it becomes the right home for you, and you become the right homeowner. Salter: Most people have a feeling when they walk in; they know right away. You can just “feel it.” Whatever “it” is, the buyer knows it.

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BEAU VIEW

What’s your best advice for making a good offer in this market so you don’t pay more than the home is worth? Siemiontkowski: My best advice is to shop at or a little below your all-in budget. Finding a bargain is tough in this market, and shopping a little below helps you be prepared for a multiple-offer situation. McIntyre: In this market, there is no such thing as too much. Offers are based on what the seller wants to accept and whether they will negotiate on things that need repaired, etc. Salter: I would say, don’t lowball. If you want the property, make a legitimate bid. Offer full asking price, or a little above (a little above if you need closing costs).

How much compromise is too much on your wish list? Siemiontkowski: When the repairs and renovations go well beyond your means McIntyre: I think this question is personal. If you are willing to negotiate, then do it — but remember that you have standards that will or will not be met. Is this your first home? Then maybe you will give on a few of the items. Is this your final home? Then stick to your guns and get what you want. Salter: What can’t you live without? Put features into categories of musthaves versus nice-to-haves. Families with dogs won’t compromise on fenced yards but may compromise on a pool or a fireplace.

September 2021

How do you close the deal in your favor when you know it’s the house for you? Siemiontkowski: Be prepared. Have a good deposit and pre-approval letter and determine a max-offer amount in case you are in a bidding war. McIntyre: Always offer list price or higher, and have money in the transaction, such as not asking for closing costs (or) repairs from the home inspection. Salter: Again, don’t lowball the offer. If you really want a particular home, don’t waste your time submitting a below-asking-price offer. This is not the type of market you want to risk losing your dream home over coming in low on an offer.

What’s the biggest mistake you see buyers making, and how can it be avoided? Siemiontkowski: Not contacting a lender first — why look at homes you can’t afford or those that don’t fit your needs because you aren’t sure what your desired payment amounts to in the total home amount? Once you’re preapproved, you will know what to look for. McIntyre: In today’s market, the biggest mistake buyers make is expecting everything from the seller. We aren’t in a buyer’s market, so don’t ask for something that another offer won’t ask for. Salter: Not being pre-approved before they start looking — buyers may shop too high and get disappointed once they find the home they want only to learn they are not eligible for that much of a loan. Always get with your lender before you start looking.

Spec and Pre-sale Homes Available for Purchase Custom Home Design Build Services CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION 12500 VILLAGE AVENUE EAST, TRADITION, BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI 39532 CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION CONTACT US FOR YOUR FREE DESIGN CONSULTATION WWW.TOOTLEHOMES.COM WWW.TOOTLEHOMES.COM • 228.697.6581 • DESIGN@TOOTLEHOMES.COM • 228.697.6581 • DESIGN@TOOTLEHOMES.COM 228.697.6581 DESIGN@TOOTLEHOMES.COM WWW.TOOTLEHOMES.COM www.gcwmultimedia.com 27

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Baudier’s Flooring Beacon Insurance Susan Siemontowski Renew Exteriors

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September 2021

We Offer Layaway and 12 Month Interest Free Financing

“Tell ‘Em Lexi and Nick Sent Ya!”

We Buy Used Furniture and Do Trade-Ins All Types of Furniture Repair and Assembly Moving Service Available No Job To Small

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264 BEAUVOIR RD. | BILOXI www.gcwmultimedia.com OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 9AM - 29 6PM

KITCHEN

“Kitchens remain the heart of the home, offering both functionality and ample space for friends and family.”

New Home Trends

Bringing the ‘wow’ factor BARN DOORS AND SHIPLAP

“Barn doors and shiplap are popular trends that our customers love.”

September 2021

CRETIN TOWNSEND HOMES The best Coast architecture has that something extra — those special features and unique details that make a home truly extraordinary. Here are some favorite spaces chosen and shared by Kyle Tootle, president/principal of Tootle Homes, and Paul Titus, sales director for Cretin Townsend Homes.

PATIO

“Plenty of outdoor space is a must for Mississippi living.”

BRINGING THE OUTDOORS IN

“We love bringing outside elements into your home for your enjoyment.”

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Get the Don Difference! Helping people achieve the dream of home ownership is my passion.

TOP 1% OF LOAN OFFICERS IN THE U.S. #1 STATE OF MISSISSIPPI FOR 3 YEARS AS SEEN ON

FIVE-STAR RATED

DON BLAIZE

AREA MANAGER, RETAIL LENDING

The Blaize Lending Team

NMLS #184888 | Branch NMLS #1594850

925 Tommy Munro Drive, Suite I & J | Biloxi, MS 39532 September 2021 228.493.0313 | dblaize@cmgfi.com | www.donblaize.com

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

BROKER/OWNER owensherryl@aol.com | 228.760.2815 CELL

MLS #378901 | 510 BEACH BLVD., BILOXI, MS | $1,600,000

Truly exquisite custom Beachfront home w/ beautiful gulf views. Built in 2007 on 2 lots, the main floor includes 3889 SF with an elevation of 23 feet. The foundation is concrete and steel pilings. There are 3 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, 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, and generator.

MLS #378828 | 106 BAYOU CIR., GULFPORT, MS | $1,245,000

Wonderful home in Bayou View on 1.3 acres overlooking the bayou! This warm spacious home has much to offer. It entails wood flooring throughout the living area; beautiful brick flooring in the kitchen and sitting area. Formal dining and living room open up to front and rear of the home! Great flow for entertaining. 3+ bedrooms upstairs with their own private bath, large game room/second floor master suite. This home offers just as much outside as it does inside! Large boat house with boat lift up to 16,000 lbs.; all new bulkhead; double garage and an RV / Boat Carport with storage. All of this overlooking the bayou in the well-desirable Bayou View subdivision!

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 James Musgrove Chris Martin Amy Olsen Realtor www.gcwmultimedia.com Realtor Realtor Broker33 Associate 228.224.5337 228.234.2001 601.467.7890 228.697.6609

TOOTLE HOMES

FRONT PORCH

“Every Southern home needs a welcoming entrance, and this front porch is definitely our favorite. Features such as tall windows, antique brick floors, wrought iron railing, operable shutters with traditional hardware, solid wood doors, a gas lantern, ornate trim detail and our signature blue ceiling make this new home feel like it has been around for decades.”

COURTYARD

“Outdoor living spaces are a popular trend, and this classic courtyard is perfect for entertaining. We love the antique brick patio, gas lantern, ‘shutter’ wall, genuine copper gutters and timeless painted brick color scheme.”

September 2021

MASTER BATHROOM

“A double-sided gas fireplace, custom mantel, cast iron clawfoot tub, tall ceiling, and antique-style chandelier make this master bathroom one of our favorite ‘new-old house’ bathrooms.”

FLEX ROOM

“The exterior door to the front porch and custom bookshelves in this flex room make it the perfect space for work, play or leisure. An antique-style chandelier also gives this multipurpose room a sophisticated look.”

DINING ROOM

“We love the tall windows, crown molding, classic color scheme and antique-style chandelier in this dining room. The space is not only intimate for entertaining family and friends, but also open to the rest of the home for larger gatherings.”

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Is it the right time to build? A red-hot real estate market means existing homes are in high demand and short supply. If you’ve thought about building your dream home, now may be the perfect time. Kyle Tootle, president/principal of Tootle Homes, and Paul Titus, sales director for Cretin Townsend Homes, have analyzed the state of the market and have some helpful advice for those embarking on the construction process. ARE CONSTRUCTION/MATERIAL COSTS ABNORMALLY HIGH, AND IS THERE ANY END IN SIGHT?

Tootle: “Material costs are still higher than a year or so ago, which has increased the overall cost for a new construction home. Lumber prices have been a big factor in the higher material costs, but we fortunately have seen a slight decrease in

September 2021

recent weeks.” Titus: “As most people may know, the cost to build has increased dramatically over the last 18 months. This is mainly attributed to an increase in housing demand during a time that supply chains were severely disrupted due to the pandemic. We are forecasting that overall cost will level off for the near future; as lumber costs retreat, the savings can be used to offset increases in other materials and labor.”

IS THERE A BACKUP OF PEOPLE WAITING TO BUILD RIGHT NOW? HOW LONG HAVE THEY BEEN WAITING VERSUS WHAT IS NORMAL? HOW ARE PEOPLE COPING WITH THIS BACKUP, AND DO YOU EXPECT IT TO LAST? Tootle: “Although building costs are more than usual, the demand for a new home is still very high. Low availability of resale homes has led to an increase in

Kyle Tootle

Paul Titus

building both spec and custom homes. It has taken a little longer than usual to get new construction homes started, and getting materials delivered on schedule has been a challenge at times. We work to overcome these obstacles by planning ahead and staying in contact with our lenders, real estate professionals, suppliers, subcontractors and homebuyers.” Titus: “Fortunately, we have been able to ‘staff up’ over the past year to meet the increase in demand, but we have heard from customers that many builders are simply turning people away, as they have too much work.”

IS IT STILL A GOOD IDEA TO BUILD WHEN IT MAY COST MORE AND TAKE LONGER, OR WOULD YOU ADVISE PEOPLE TO WAIT? Tootle: “Now is still a great time to build, as we do not know what the future holds for interest rates, housing availability, material costs, etc.”

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"Choosing your desired fixtures and finishes on the front end of the process helps to avoid potential delays due to material availability or changes in costs." Titus: “It is still an excellent time to build. While costs have increased, we also have seen quite a reduction in interest rates. When you look at the monthly cost of ownership as opposed to the total cost of ownership, most people still can build for close to what it would of cost them 18 months ago. The Fed has indicated that no rate hikes are planned until the end of next year, and they hope as many people as possible take advantage of these historically low rates.”

WHAT’S YOUR ADVICE FOR GETTING AROUND THE INCREASED EXPENSE AND REDUCING COSTS?

136 Main St.

Bay St. Louis, MS | MLS #378339 MULTI UNIT | 2,094 SF | $1,200,000 Located on the 1st Block of Main Street in the Heart of Old Town! It is an Income Producing Property in more ways than 1! Unit A 899 SF currently used as an Airbnb is a 1 bd 1 bath w/living area, laundry, kitchen/dining. Unit B 1,195 SF currently used as Retail but can be that again or more! Total of 3,017 sq.

7932 Hapuna Pl.

Diamondhead, MS | MLS #378513 3 BD | 3.5 BA | 3,569 SF | $349,900 Don’t miss this move in ready home right on the golf course! This home is perfect for entertaining. So many highlights to this home like dual staircases that lead to separate bedrooms each with their own bathrooms.

Call us today for your private showing! 529 Ulman Avenue | Bay St. Louis | 228-466-6643 | hlraymondproperties@gmail.com

www.hlraymondproperties.com

September 2021

Tootle: “When planning for your new home, make a list of your must-haves, and then make a list of your wants. These lists should help when choosing what to include and not include in the new home build.” Titus: “I always would recommend working with an experienced builder. They will be able to understand your needs, wants and budget and be able to help design you a home that can check the most boxes possible.”

IF SOMEONE IS GOING TO BUILD RIGHT NOW, WHAT’S YOUR BEST ADVICE?

Tootle: “Aesthetics is an important aspect of a new home, but the functionality of a home is even more important. A great home starts with a well-thoughtout design, so getting the design as perfect as possible will help save time during the building process. Also, choosing your desired fixtures and finishes on the front end of the process helps to avoid potential delays due to material availability or changes in costs.” Titus: “Start as soon as you can. In custom home building, it often takes three to four months of planning (home design, site work, financing and permitting) before construction can physically start. You don’t have to wait to sell your current home or buy a piece of property to get the process of building your new home started. This all can be happening at the same time. That way, when you are ready to start construction, everything is in place — which will lead to a quicker build time, which will lead to reduced stress and cost.”

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Give us a call today at (228) 374-0067 for a FREE QUOTE or drop in to one of our offices at 1009 Howard Ave. in Downtown Biloxi, MS HANK LANGLINAIS or 2004 Hwy. 90, Gautier, MS 39553

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Set in STONE Create custom looks inside and out with granite, quartzite marble and quartz BY KRISTEN BORGUEZAN

In our industry, tastes span a wide spectrum of design and vision. From the clean lines of an ultramod, minimalist look to the comforting textures and neutrals of the next generation of farmhouse fab, the trends are beautifully varied. One emerging style must be mentioned echoes the 1920s aesthetic — jewel tones so bold and rich that they call for exotic, veined countertops to complement a peacock-like glamour; we can’t get enough! From soft to bold, we’ve seen it all and enjoy the diversity immensely. Here are some of our favorite looks and ideas: • Double the thickness of your island’s edge for an attention-getting, elegant centerpiece. • “Waterfall” the stone off the end of an island or bath vanity to the floor for a wow factor. Consider an exotic, veined slab as the wall accent. • Enjoy the look and feel of multiple stone colors and textures — a farmhouse sink surround is a bold, fun look. • To suit today’s fur-friendly homeowner, we adore this marble inlaid pet feeder that boasts bowls and a pot filler — chic and practical. • A custom chiseled and doubled edge adds bold, rustic appeal. • Stunning fireplace surrounds provide year-round warmth. • Incorporating stone throughout a living area adds hints of luxury. Pro tip: Most stone yards have remnant pieces perfect for windowsills, benches and accent table tops. • Powder room vanities are inviting and elegant. Marble is lovely in such a space. • Black and white is an emerging trend, yet it is reminiscent of days gone by. Whites, grays and dark stones are all still in demand. • Outdoor stone design is showcased with pool surrounds, a tiki bar and, of course, an outdoor kitchen. Pro tip: Choose a resilient stone like granite for outdoors. Kristen Borguezan is managing partner and co-owner of Borguezan Custom Granite. Reach her at (228) 209-4704.

September 2021

STONE 101 GRANITE

Granite remains the hardest and heartiest of the natural stones. Most granites are naturally heat-, scratchand stain-resistant, and the exotic veining is still a fan-favorite.

QUARTZITE

Quartzite is lovely in its layers and color depth, and needs to be sealed about every five years, so maintenance should be considered.

MARBLE

Marble is a timeless go-to, but easy to scratch and more prone to stains. Most clients find it best-suited to master closets, low-traffic laundry rooms, wet bars, libraries, powder rooms, fireplace surrounds and tabletops.

QUARTZ

Quartz, in our business, refers to a man-made, synthetic stone, noted for its non-porous, scratch- and stain-resistant surface. Don’t expect a lower price point, however; many quartz colors exceed natural stones in cost.

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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.

PROFESSIONAL DESIGN SERVICES - FINE FURNITURE CUSTOM FABRICS - ACCESSORIES - ART - JEWELRY - GIFTS

963 Howard Avenue | Biloxi Formerly Merchiston Hall Galleries

228-385-2657

www.dbatiainteriors.com 42

September 2021

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OUT WITH THE OLD,

IN WITH THE NEW HUE Before you paint, check out these top colors for 2021 BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Given the challenges we’ve faced for over a year, it’s safe to say we could all use a refresh — and that includes our living spaces. In many cases, transforming a worn-out room is as simple as applying fresh color to the walls. If you’re tackling a paint project this fall, consider the vibe you want to create. Design experts say that in 2021, people are craving peace and comfort in their homes, and that mood is reflected in the most popular paint choices. If you’re having trouble choosing the right hue, read on for some trend-driven inspiration. EMBRACE THE BLUES

Blue is associated with tranquility, so it’s no surprise that this color tops the list in 2021. Consider these choices to make any room a restful retreat:

• Vintage Blue: Minwax’s first-ever color of the year turns up the nostalgia factor. • Aegean Teal: Benjamin Moore’s color of the year, a blue-green blend with a gray undertone, is elegant as well as versatile. • Aqua Fiesta: An eye-catching and vibrant aquamarine shade, Glidden’s first-ever accent color of the year can turn any space into a spa.

September 2021

LOOK ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

EARTHY APPEAL

Few things provide more calming energy than nature, so if you’re doing a color update, why not bring the outside in? Get grounded and add warmth with this palette inspired by the great outdoors:

• Canyon Dusk: The magnificent, sunbaked landscapes of the American West have an unmistakable appearance and feel, which Behr has captured with its color of the year. • Urbane Bronze: This modern graybrown combination, Sherwin Williams’s color of the year, evokes the organic quality of stone or metal and gives any space a down-to-earth, cozy look. • Maple Leaf: Valspar chose a dozen colors of the year, including this camelcolored hue, that promote a sense of serenity and simplicity.

Hope for better days is a hallmark of 2021 — and it’s reflected even in this year’s biggest paint trends. Bring some of that optimism into your home with these bold hues that instantly elevate your mood: • Illuminating: The Pantone Color Institute, a global color authority, chose a vibrant, sunny yellow that embodies resilience and positivity for one of its two colors of the year; pair with Ultimate Gray for the full, uplifting effect. • Satin Paprika: With an emphasis on warmth and wellbeing, Rust-Oleum has announced this spicy-yet-soothing shade is its 2021 color of the year. • Passionate: HGTV HOME’s color of the year, as rich and invigorating as the red wine it resembles, manages to be both daring and comforting.

Why work with INSIDE OUTSIDE KITCHEN AND BATH for your next project... CUSTOM COUNTERTOPS... Gulf Coast’s first and oldest stone fabricator specializing in residential and commercial jobs. Family owned and operated, now in third generation of ownership. Slabs on site for client selection. State-of-the-art fabrication facility with in-house installation of all custom countertops.

CUSTOM DESIGNED CABINETS AND TILE... One stop source for all aspects of kitchen and bathroom design - new construction or remodeling. Boutique showroom displaying all the latest trends in countertops, cabinetry, tile, and luxury brand appliances. 3 Kitchen designers on staff with a combined 50 years of experience. 3D design software brings your design to life and on the big screen.

The Best in the business for 47 years...All Under one roof MENTION THIS ADD FOR A FREE STONE CHEESE BOARD WITH COUNTERTOP PURCHASE CUSTOM DESIGNED PRODUCTS COUNTERTOPS | CABINETRY | TILE LUXURY BRAND APPLIANCES WWW.INSIDEOUTSIDE.NET COUNTERTOP WALK-INS WELCOME KITCHEN AND BATH DESIGN BY APPOINTMENT 4910 WEST RAILROAD ST., GULFPORT, MS | 228-864-3093 www.gcwmultimedia.com 45

Hottest design trends BY DEBBIE BATIA

How do we describe the last 12-15 months in the world of home furnishings and interior design? To sum it up in one word — amazing! While most businesses that rely on the public visiting or shopping have been in a slump, the interior design industry has exploded with new business, new clients and exciting trends. With the country in lockdown and stuck in their homes for months, many people who had not paid close attention to their surroundings on a day-to-day basis realized they were ready for a change. With increased time spent watching TV, especially HGTV and “Million Dollar Real Estate” (one of my favorites), they saw many beautiful homes and rooms they wanted to emulate. With Small Business Administration loans, low-interest home loans or home equity loans and many other resources that came about due to the pandemic, some people had more disposable funds to make these changes. Also, the money that normally would be spent on family vacations, dinners out or shopping was not being spent, so extra money was available for home improvements. If you ask any interior designer or home furnishings store owner, he or she will tell you business has increased very quickly in the last 15 months or so with no sign of letting up. Most consumers have decided that life is too short not to be happy in the place where they spend so much of their time. They want to live in a beautiful environment with updated furnishings, colors and decor. Their eyes have been opened to what is possible in their own surroundings without breaking the bank. Here are some of the latest trends that are making our home environments happy: • Lots of color — people want to feel good in their homes and offices, and that means happy colors. • Beautiful, clean furnishing styles, but not stark, and not all monochromatic off-whites, grays or beiges. Unique accessories, lamps and rugs bring the look together. • Updated styles in window treatments also are back in a big way. These include decorative rods, beautiful fabrics and sun-filtering shades that let you see out but block the heat and damaging ultraviolet rays. • Metal finishes of all kinds are being used together in room designs. There is no right or wrong finish to use together anymore. Gone are the days where every fixture and the hardware on cabinets, etc. must be the same finish. Mix finishes to acquire that pulled-together, designer look. • Flooring choices today are varied, and there are so many to choose from. A good Interior designer can help you make the right choices for your environment, type of home, traffic patterns and budget. Porcelain tile, luxury vinyl tile, wood flooring and carpeting that is dense and tightly woven, with or without a design, are popular choices. What we have all learned through this last year and a half is to live our lives, enjoy moments with our family and friends every chance we get, live in the most comfortable, beautiful rooms we can and be happy we are still here to enjoy them. Debbie Batia is owner of D.Batia Interiors LLC in Biloxi. Reach her at (228) 3852657 or dbatiainteriors@gmail.com.

September 2021

MISSISSIPPI COAST SUPPLY CO., INC. 241 Caillavet St. | Biloxi, MS 39530 | Phone: 228-432-2617 | Fax: 228-436-9714

Visit us Online! www.mscoastsupply.com www.gcwmultimedia.com

When you need a professional

BAUDIER'S FLOORING Baudier's Flooring sells all the top flooring brands: Shaw, Mohawk, Dreamweaver, DAL Tile, Viking and more. We even carry smaller, locally owned companies if you're looking for something different. 2701 25th Ave., Gulfport, MS 39501 228-863-7155 debra@baudiersflooring.com www.baudiersflooring.com Facebook.com/Baudiers

DEBRA PRICE OWNER

BILOXI BEACH RESORT RENTALS We are the largest rental management company on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and manage over 300 units, which are located at nine different luxury condominium complexes. Quality accommodations and first-rate service is what you will get from us! Book your relaxing getaway with us today! 2228 Beach Drive Suite 1, Gulfport, MS 39507 (228) 276-2300 alden@biloxibeachcondorentals.com www.biloxibeachresortrentals.com Facebook.com/biloxibeachresortrentals

JACQUELINE WILSON GENERAL MANAGER

NEXTHOME SIMPLICITY Simplicity is our name for a reason. We use a modern approach and cutting-edge technology to improve and simplify our clients’ transaction experience. 202 Klondyke Road, Long Beach, MS 39560 (228) 357-5888 nexthomesimplicity@gmail.com www.nhsimplicity.com Facebook.com/NextHomeSimplicity

ANDREW AND BRITTANY GEOTES BROKER/OWNER

MIGHTY MEN MOVERS MS Mighty Men Movers MS Mighty Men Movers offers professional residential and office relocation services in the Gulf Coast region. We can assist with packing, locating storage, locating a Realtor, loading, unloading and home/office organization. We also offer cross-country moving services. Gulfport, MS (228) 297-5676 mightymenmoversms@gmail.com www.mightymenmoversms.com Facebook.com/mightymenmoversms

JAMES D. WILSON OWNER

D.BATIA INTERIORS We are the Mississippi Gulf Coast's finest furniture and interior design showroom, with extensive selections of quality furniture and accessories. 963 Howard Ave., Biloxi, MS 39530 (228) 385-2657 dbatiainteriors@gmail.com www.dbatiainteriors.com Facebook.com/DBatiaInteriorsLLC

DEBBIE BATIA OWNER

MISSISSIPPI HOME CORPORATION 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 will offer you cash assistance at closing, a way to reduce your federal tax liability and homebuyer education classes to improve your credit and set you up for homeownership success. 735 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS 39202 (601) 718-4642 macie.carney@mshc.com www.mshomecorp.com Facebook.com/mshomecorp

MACIE CARNEY ASSISTANT VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING, COMMUNICATION

PURCHASE | REFINANCE | BUILD | RENOVATE

T E A M C U CC I A /C H O T T O

mother daughter mortgage duo

more than transactions... we build relationships TRINA CUCCIA CHANTELLE CHOTTO

SENIOR LOAN OFFICER | NMLS #1198282 LOAN OFFICER | NMLS #1560990

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LICENSED IN MISSISSIPPI & LOUISIANA GMFS LLC is an Equal Housing Lender. All mortgages are originated by GMFS LLC at 7389 Florida Blvd. Suite 200A Baton Rouge, LA 70806. NMLS #64997. Branch is located at 5411 Indian Hill, Diamondhead, MS 39525. Branch NMLS #1208331.

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When you need a professional

RENEW EXTERIORS INC. Offering exterior home improvement services and proudly Serving the Mississippi Gulf Coast! Our services Include custom wood fence building, fence staining, pressure washing, soft washing and roof cleaning.

DELMAR MORTGAGE Bank - broker or lender? Discover the difference a local lender makes. We offer three offices on the MS Gulf Coast - Bay St Louis, Ocean Springs, and Pascagoula. (228) 860-3524 vgalle@delmarmortgage.com www.delmarmortgage.com Facebook.com/delmarmortgage

Chris Staples, Owner 14129 Longwood Circle, D'Iberville, MS 39540 (228) 324-8161 customerservice@renewexteriors.net www.renewexteriors.net Facebook.com/renewexteriors

VALERIE GALLE SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

CHRIS STAPLES OWNER

SUSAN SIEMONTOWSKI

SEAMAN AND ASSOCIATES

I love all things real estate! Whether you're buying or selling, give me a call. Looking for a new construction home? That’s my specialty!

Certified MS State General Real Estate Appraiser GA • 25 years’ experience • Real estate • appraisals • Sales • Management Steve Seaman, Owner 3106 Canty St. East, Pascagoula, MS 39567 (228) 218-2563 stevedseaman@aol.com Facebook.com/Seamanandassociates

2003 Bienville Blvd., Ocean Springs, MS 39564 (228) 239-2621 susiesellsthecoast@gmail.com www.susiesellsthecoast.com Facebook.com/SusieSellsTheCoast

STEVE SEAMAN OWNER

SUSAN SIEMONTOWSKI REALTOR, COLDWELL BANKER ALFONSO

HL RAYMOND PROPERTIES We are a dynamic team of realty professionals who believe that selling your property and/or helping you find your dream home is a privilege. Holly Lemoine-Raymond, Broker, Owner, and Designer 529 Ulman Ave., Bay St Louis, MS 39520 (228) 466-6643 hlrpropmarketing@gmail.com www.hlraymondproperties.com Facebook.com/hlraymondproperties

HOLLY LEMOINE-RAYMOND BROKER, OWNER, DESIGNER

September 2021

CELEBRATING 115 YEARS OF GUIDING PEOPLE HOME 6 Convenient Locations

BAY SAINT LOUIS 1188 Highway 90 Bay Saint Louis, MS 39520 228.467.0244

GULFPORT 9153 Lorraine Road Gulfport, MS 39503 228.287.1000

BILOXI 1966 Popps Ferry Road Biloxi, MS 39532 228.207.2308

OCEAN SPRINGS 2003 Bienville Boulevard Ocean Springs, MS 39564 228.875.1272

DIAMONDHEAD 4300 Gex Road Diamondhead, MS 39525 228.255.3550

PASCAGOULA 934 Jackson Avenue Pascagoula, MS 39567 228.769.7777

©2019 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office Is Independently Owned and Operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

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THE IMPACT OF INFLATION THERE’S LITTLE RELIEF IN SIGHT FOR HOMEBUYERS

Low interest rates, in my view, are the main factor driving the upward inflation trend in the housing market. Many buyers are looking to lock in their monthly payments by taking advantage of low mortgage rates.

September 2021

If you’ve purchased anything from groceries to a car lately, you’ve probably noticed that inflation has been on the rise. Put simply, inflation is an increase in prices. When the price to buy goods or services, including mortgage loans, goes up, prices for other goods and services rise or fall in response. This year’s real estate market has been strong, and despite COVID-19, demand has increased in the housing market, which includes construction of personal residences and spec homes. I believe this is due to the combination of government support, low interest rates and the increased number of homebuyers. Low interest rates, in my view, are the main factor driving the upward inflation trend in the housing market. Many buyers are looking to lock in their monthly payments by taking advantage of low mortgage rates. Given the demand in the housing market, I see home prices rising. The increase in prices and the decreased availability of homes could make purchasing homes difficult well into the future. As far as home construction, the price of building materials is a perfect example of inflation. Lumber prices increased by more than 300 percent during the pandemic, and while it has dropped considerably in the last month, it is still approximately 75 percent more than in 2019. As inventory continues to decrease, there will be little relief in sight for homebuyers. Before the cooling-off trend

BY DEBORA BATCHELOR

begins this fall, the median home price is predicted to reach new highs in the coming months. This year, more homeowners are listing their houses for sale, resulting in a record-high percentage of homes for sale being “new listings.” While the flood of sellers will help alleviate some of the competitive pressure, buyers must still make offers that are strong enough to win out in a multiple-bid scenario. Low rates give borrowers more buying power, and a significant decline in mortgage rates can help push up home prices — as witnessed in recent months. If mortgage rates continue to rise in 2021, affordability is likely to become a bigger challenge. The combination of intense demand and low mortgage rates has pushed home prices to levels that are making it difficult to save for a down payment, particularly for firsttime buyers. Building will continue, and new homes will pile up a bit, which will slow down the rate of price appreciation. However, there are reasons to believe that the housing market will remain tight in 2021 and 2022 because there are first-time buyers entering the market. Debora Batchelor is vice president of The Peoples Bank. Reach her at (228) 255-4450 or dbatchelor@thepeoples.com.

Vintage | Gifts | Antiques | Decor

A medley of old and new

s qr t 228-493-8101 700 Washington Ave. Downtown Ocean Springs

Shop with us first for antique, vintage & new furniture, home decor, outdoor decor, cow hides, and more. We are proud to have a medley of old and new for you & your home.

OceanSpringsMercantile.com

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COVERING THE COAST No one knows mortgages better on the coast than the team at Delmar Mortgage Laura Stinson

Valerie Galle

Bernie O’Sullivan

NMLS# 699479

NMLS# 658281

NMLS# 658282

Senior Mortgage Loan Officer m: (228) 222-1075 lstinson@delmarmortgage.com

Senior Vice President m: (228) 860-3524 vgalle@delmarmortgage.com

Senior Loan Officer m: (228) 215-1268 bosullivan@delmarmortgage.com

Angela Myers

Alene Varnado

Chris Dickerson

NMLS# 526275

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Senior Mortgage Loan Officer m: (228) 363-0772 amyers@delmarmortgage.com

Mortgage Banker m: (601) 441-6019 avarnado@delmarmortgage.com

Loan Originator m: (228) 297-7772 cdickerson@delmarmortgage.com

Heather Satchell

Gabriel Leoni

Summer Chason

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Loan Originator m: (228) 265-4088 hsatchell@delmarmortgage.com

Mortgage Banker m: (228) 323-4934 gleoni@delmarmortgage.com

Loan Officer m: (850) 529-4101 schason@delmarmortgage.com

This graphic is for information purposes only and is not an advertisement to extend customer credit as defined by Section 12 CFR 1026.2 Regulation Z. Program rates, terms and conditions are subject to change at any time. Delmar Mortgage NMLS# 30998 Licensed by Miss. Dept. of Banking & Commerce

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special focus / October is Domestic Violence Awareness

S TU APND

for all the women who are suffering in silence

A community effort to bring awareness, to domestic violence. What’s included: • special section • rack card

••• RESERVE SPACE BY SEPTEMBER 8, 2021 ••• MORE INFO: dorothy@gulfcoastwomanmagazine.com or Call her

1 IN 4 WOMEN EXPERIENCE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE 54

September 2021

TOUGHEST, EASIEST TO CLEAN CARPET ON THE PLANET! HYPOALLERGENIC NO WRINKLE

People, Pug, and Pet Approved!

THE FLOORING MART LLC

1261 Pass Road | Gulfport, MS 39501 phone 228.864.4111 theflooringmart@aol.com

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A room without a rug is like a kiss without a hug. www.gcwmultimedia.com

PICKARD THE ULTIMATE MONOGRAM CHINA COLLECTION

We make saving easy. Meet our team!

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

228.897.7644 56

September 2021

Local professional agents!

Biloxi 2505 Pass Road 228-385-1177

Bay St. Louis 412 Hwy 90

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Fax 888-415-8922

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Custom Built Homes On Your Property Visit Our New Design Center Since 1976, Creen Townsend Homes has been building beaueful, custom homes across southeast Louisiana and Mississippi, using our proven process to guide homeowners from the inquiry stage and ﬁnancing through permiing and construceon. 16043 W. Dedeaux Rd, Gulfport

We are excited to open our new Gulf Coast Design Center to beeer serve the Mississippi coastal region. With our new home specialists, in-house designers, preferred lenders, experienced project managers, and dedicated warranty department, we pride ourselves on the awesome experience we deliver to the families we serve. THEBUILDERTHATCARES.COM | 888-----8-8www.gcwmultimedia.com 57

Having cemented its status as the “Nicest Place in Mississippi,” Florence Gardens continues to live up to its friendly reputation. The 450-acre, master-planned community, residents say, is an ideal place to grow up, retire, or anything in between. “There is such a warmth to our neighborhood, and I love the buzz of active families taking advantage of the outdoor spaces like the Town Green, the pool and the lake throughout the day,” says resident Desiree Lizana. “The tree-lined streets and boardwalks call for people to walk, jog or ride a bike.” Beyond the many amenities, which also include a butterfly boardwalk, blueberry hill, ample green space and even a school — Hope Academy — Florence Gardens residents share a comradery that’s rare even in the hospitable South. This neighborly spirit prompted grandmother Hope Goldin to reach out to Reader’s Digest, and her appeal earned Florence Gardens its “Nicest Place in Mississippi” title from the publication. In her nomination, Goldin noted how

NOTABLE NEIGHBORHOOD

Florence Gardens: Where neighbors become friends BY JENNIFER GENTILE

the pandemic had brought the community together — with family-friendly, socially distanced activities like movie nights, pop-up restaurants and trivia contests raising residents’ morale. “These events – all held on the Town Green, a shard outdoor community space – connected us in a time when connection seemed impossible,” says Rachel Rath, director of sales and marketing for Florence Gardens. Those who choose to make Florence Gardens their home have a number of builder partners and floor plans to choose from. This fall, Rath says, the community will be launching two new phases. The first is an extension of the Artisan District and will feature Creolestyle homes within walking distance of Hope Academy and Lake Florence. The second, called The Enclave, “will feature generously sized lots with rear-alley garages and tranquil streets overlooking a natural green space,” according to Rath.

SEAMAN & ASSOCIATES Real Estate Appraisals

Sales

Ma n a g e m e n t

FAST - ACCURATE - EFFICIENT

• Certified Real Estate Appraisers • Real Estate Sales • Property Management Steve Seaman

Kim Seaman

Serving Harrison, Jackson, Hancock, George, Greene and Perry Counties for OVER 35 YEARS.

WHEN IT HAS TO BE DONE RIGHT! Call Now! 228-762-0621 3106 Canty Street - Pascagoula, MS 39567

September 2021

The

InspiringGulf Coast Lifestyles.

From Left to Right: Roxanne Bratton, Rachael Boudreaux, Brandi Scurto, Judy Abide, Lynn O’Keefe (Broker), Kristi Currie McClellan, CC Chernev, Shane O’Keefe

The O’Keefe Real Estate Group is dedicated to inspiring Gulf Coast lifestyles with an unparalleled level of service. As our team continues to grow, so does our commitment to the core values that guide everything we do. We never forget that we owe everything to the efforts of our team members, our families, our community, and our clients. A strong love for the Mississippi Gulf Coast shines through in our daily interactions. A huge thank you to those who trust us and allow us to work for them, encourage each other, and celebrate this journey together. Call any of our agents if you are buying, selling, or leasing any properties for a truly personal and professional experience.

It’s the BEST time to sell and always a good time to buy! Call us TODAY or visit us online at: TheOKeefeRealEstateGroup.com 228.875.5096 www.gcwmultimedia.com

We Offer Layaway and 12 Month Interest Free Financing

“Tell ‘Em Lexi and Nick Sent Ya!”

We Buy Used Furniture and Do Trade-Ins All Types of Furniture Repair and Assembly Moving Service Available No Job To Small

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September 2021

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

2 6 1 9 PA S S R O A D 228.265.7282

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DOING THE JOB RIGHT SEAMAN & ASSOCIATES TAKES PRIDE IN FAST, FAIR APPRAISALS BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Brothers Kim and Steve Seaman

The greatest rewards “(come) daily when we can be a small part of helping a homeowner reach their goals with obtaining property.” - Steve Seaman

September 2021

While many businesses struggled or shuttered during the pandemic, Seaman & Associates has benefitted from a booming housing market. “We have consistently been busy, even during a time of shutdown for most,” says Steve Seaman, real estate appraiser with the Pascagoula-based company. People still were purchasing, refinancing and selling homes, and with that, everyone needs an appraisal.” Seaman & Associates was founded in 1989 when Steve and his brother, Kim, joined Roger Poulos. Steve is a state-certified residential appraiser while Kim is a state-certified general real estate appraiser who performs residential, commercial, industrial and special-purpose property assessments. Born and raised in Moss Point, Steve started working with his late brother-in-law at Ralph Klein and Associates in 1979. Also raised in The Moss Point area, Kim started Kim Seaman Realty in 1985. Now having served Harrison, Hancock, Jackson, George, Greene, Stone and Perry counties for over three decades, Seaman & Associates’ mission continues to be establishing fair value for every property in their charge, according to Steve. “Real estate is an everchanging market,” he says, “and what is exciting for us and for the property owner is that in today’s market, the values of homes are

consistently rising.” While COVID has had minimal negative effect on the company, Steve says its biggest challenge to date has been recovering from the housing market crisis of 20072008. The greatest rewards, he adds, “(come) daily when we can be a small part of helping a homeowner reach their goals with obtaining property.” Banks are Seaman & Associates’ biggest customers, but the company also works with homeowners, credit unions, attorneys, certified public accountants and others who need a home appraisal and are purchasing land or a new home. Steve and his brother may have decades of experience in the industry, he says, but they are by no means done learning. “We are required to do continuing education every year for both real estate and appraisals,” Steve says, “so we stay up to date on any changes.” In an industry where his work can have serious consequences, including affecting a client’s mortgage loan, Steve says his firm prides itself on being good and fair appraiser that does the job right. Being on the Gulf Coast, he adds, allows him to see and evaluate a unique and wide variety of properties. “I am from here,” he says, “so I appreciate and enjoy seeing how (the area) grows and evolves.”

SEAMAN & ASSOCIATES 3106 Canty Street, Pascagoula (228) 762-0621 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Amy Brand

Branch Manager NMLS 103259 Office: 228.200.1091 Mobile: 228.200.8591 Email: teambrand@amerifirst.us Web: abrand.amerifirstloan.com AFI Mortgage | NMLS 145368 1113 Ames Avenue | Ocean Springs, MS 39564 AFI Mortgage, division of AmeriFirst Financial, Inc., 1550 E. McKellips Road, Suite 117, Mesa, AZ 85203 (NMLS # 145368). 1-877-276-1974. © 2021. All Rights Reserved. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates, and programs are subject to change without prior notice. Not all products are available in all states or for all loan amounts. Other restrictions and limitations apply. AmeriFirst Financial, Inc. is an independent mortgage lender and is not affiliated with the Department of Housing and Urban Development or the Federal Housing Administration. Visit https://amerifirstloan.com/pages/state-licensing for all state licenses information. Visit NMLS Consumer Access at www.gcwmultimedia.com https://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

LET PAINT

SPECIALIZING IN RESIDENTIAL AND SMALL-SCALE COMMERCIAL PROJECTS

help create Serenity and Calm in your home today!

INTERIOR DESIGN | EVENT PLANNING

Contact us today to get started on your next design project! 228.860.1694 | WWW.DESIGNSOCIALMS.COM STEPHANIE@DESIGNSOCIALMS.COM

Since 1989

More Choices - Better Service We Service Who We Sell

September 2021

GULFPORT - $299,000 337 SOUTHERN CIR., GULFPORT, MS 39507 Great location to walk to the beach or just around the neighborhood of the Great Southern Golf Course, one of the oldest golf courses in the USA, there was no water in the house in Katrina, Family is the original and only owner and built the house in 1967. House is ready for its new owner and its renovation. Coldwell Banker Alfonso Realty, Inc Cynthia S. Joachim, REALTOR Office: 228-287-1000 Direct: 228-760-6865 cynthia.joachim@coldwellbanker.com www.alfonso.com

Let us design the interior of your home... we can do it all! Now offeriNg graber window Treatments, Blinds and Shutters 615 Pass Road Suite D • Gulfport

(228) 563-5509 Tues - Fri: 8-4 • Sat 10-2

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At one time, backsplash was purely practical, and its sole purpose was to protect walls from messes. Today, we treat backsplash as the essential design element it is. Whether you’re looking to update your kitchen or give it more character, backsplash is a relatively simple, inexpensive investment that can make a dramatic difference. Need help choosing the right backsplash for your space? The experts at Baudier’s Flooring have shared some of their favorite looks.

Make a SPLASH!

Calacata gold 2” hexagon tile by MSI: This option gives the room a chic atmosphere. The honeycomb look is elegant, as is the white marble blend with gold and grays. This product could be displayed as a backsplash, floor or countertop.

CARRARA WILLOW by Anthology: The matte finish over a marble look gives off a very classic, timeless design.

GRECIAN WHITE ARABESQUE by MSI: This is a luxurious arabesque, yet still subtle, so it blends smoothly with any other styles you may incorporate with it.

September 2021

FRENCH QUARTER tile by Happy Floors: It comes in four colors: Orleans, Chartres, Bienville, and Toulouse. It also comes in three sizes: 3-by-10, 12-by24 or 2-by-2. It is a glazed porcelain that resembles the old French Quarter brick design and is great for indoors and outdoors.

MARLOW TILE BY ANATOLIA: It comes in six subtle, light colors: cloud, mist, smoke, desert, earth and tide. The ripple look gives the finished product texture. to bring out a different style from traditional subway tile.

Leader in commercial, residential and contractor flooring sales and installation IF YOU DON’T KNOW FLOORING, KNOW YOUR FLOORING SOURCE!

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Porcelain | Ceramic Tile Wood Planks Waterproofing System for Showers & Tub Surrounds Hardwood Flooring Vinyl Tile or Planks Commercial and Residential Carpet | Carpet Tiles Accent Borders & Tiles Floating Laminate Carpet Re-stretching and Repairs

SERVING THE MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST FOR

OVER 30 YEARS

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2701 25th Ave, Gulfport, MS 39501

WWW.BAUDIERSFLOORING.COM Sales@BaudiersFlooring.com

428 COURTHOUSE RD. SUITE B GULFPORT, MS 39507 228-207-0408 Formerly the office of Dr. Donna Alexander www.gcwmultimedia.com

We can help you put down roots and finance an affordable home.

As Mississippi's Housing Finance Agency our mission is to enhance Mississippi's long-term economic viability by financing safe, decent, affordable housing and helping working families build wealth.

TRUST YOUR LOCAL PROS

Decorative Fencing | Your Home’s Ultimate Accessory

renewexteriors.net

Mississippi Home Corporation

228.295.0474

735 Riverside Drive | Jackson, MS | mshomecorp.com

Gollott Lyons Real Estate is a locally owned, Award-Winning Real Estate Company. Our small, skilled team is composed of awardwinning agents that are PROUD to call South Mississippi home! We believe that customer service is paramount. We take the time to explain every element of the home-buying and selling process to our clients, whether it be the print on the contract or information on the community. Our agents are happy to serve and call the Mississippi Gulf Coast Home!

Give us a call today! 952 HOWARD AVENUE • BILOXI,MS 39532 • 228-432-0097 • www.gollottlyons.com 68

September 2021

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9434 THREE RIVERS RD. GULFPORT, MS 39503 (228) 864-5969 FAX (228) 864-5973 www.gcwmultimedia.com

Getting organized

starts with a no-fail mindset

BY MELANIE JONES

Believe it or not, getting organized is more of a mindset than an activity. If I had to choose a word to describe it, I would use the word “lifestyle.” We’re not all born into this lifestyle or with good organizational habits, but thankfully, anyone can develop them. Staying tidy starts with a series of decisions that you choose to make and stick with every day. Sometimes, committing can be the most challenging part of the whole process, but in the end, it is the most rewarding. Anyone can adopt the mindset needed to have an organized life. All you need is determination, discipline, consistency and a desire for better. Organization requires setting up routines and sticking to them. It takes commitment and problem-solving skills, like creating a “home” for your belongings and ensuring that they always return there after they’re used. You certainly can hire a professional to organize your space, and I highly recommend it, but you must be purposeful in your daily choices to maintain your masterpiece. Organization comes with a trained mindset not unlike that of the military: There is no other option but to complete the task. This may sound odd or extreme, but you must adopt this style of thinking to maintain order. As 1 Corinthians 14:40 states, “Let all things be done decently and in order.” Adopting this mindset starts with a selfevaluation. What type of attitude do you have about keeping your surroundings neat, and is it consistent with that of an organized person? Are you willing to adopt these new behavior patterns to create lasting change? My favorite question to ask is, “What is your why?” What is your reason for wanting to change your behavior patterns and adopt new ones? Your answers to

September 2021

these questions will determine whether you are ready for a new mindset. If your why is not important enough to you, you may not put forth the effort needed to make your new lifestyle permanent. Be honest with yourself; after all, it is for your benefit. So, are you ready for this change that will bring you more peace and less stress? Will you do what it takes to adopt a different mindset and become organized? If so, congratulations — and welcome your new lifestyle. Melanie Jones is owner and interior designer with 123 Organize and Design. Reach her at (228) 596-7178 or at 123organizeanddesign@gmail.com.

Thank you for supporting local family-owned businesses!

Need help moving your household goods or relocating your office? Call 228.297.5676

or submit your request at www.mightymenmoverms.com What our customers say about us Excellent moving skills, and great customer service! On top of that great prices. I will definitely be using Mighty Men Movers in the near future. Just wanted to let the owner know that the 3 men who cam and moved us were very professional, prompt, friendly, and very efficient! I will strongly recommend your company to anyone who needs to move. Thanks again!! - G. & B. Etchison Mighty Men Movers did an excellent job with my long-distance move. They were fast, efficient, and... - R. Thornton We have worked with Mighty Men Movers for several years and are never disappointed with their service. They are always accommodating to our moving needs and have the best price around. When I have to find a moving company for my personal move, there was no hesitation, I called Mighty Men because they are the best! - N. Bedsole, Mental Health Assoc. of South Mississippi

EXPERIENCED CREWS | PERSONALIZED SERVICE FURNITURE PLACEMENT ASSISTANCE James D. Wilson, owner/operator

Since 2004 LICENSED BONDED INSURED D.O.T. No. 3292042 71 www.gcwmultimedia.com

ADVERTORIAL Turquoise Cutting Board (Large) $79.95 and the Navy Cutting Board is $48.95 Personalized Cheese Board $30

ROBIN'S NEST IN THE PASS

Luster Champagne Flutes $18 per piece

WHITE BY THE WEDDING COLLECTION

Mini Gold Charcuterie Cluster $56.95

TREND

Uttermost Framed Artwork Wildflowers $119.00 each

DBATIA INTERIORS

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Fringe blankets $65 and come in a taupe, white or grey color!

WHITE BY THE WEDDING COLLECTION

University and Sorority Pillows SEC Tailgating Cookbook

HERITAGE HOUSE GIFTS FURNITURE GALORE AND MORE 72

September 2021

GOT PESTS? CALL THE BEST! All Inclusive Pest Control All Pests, Including Termites, For One Low Monthly Price PLUS 100% Proven Covid-19 Treatments & Deodorizing Services QUALITY SERVICE SINCE 1955

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SO COME SEE WHAT’S

We do wonderful Schluter waterproofing for floors, shower walls and counter tops. We can even heat the floors. There are beautiful tile and brick patterns for inside and out. Ceramic “wood look” plank for floors, porches & walls.

Back splashes of tile, glass, metals and shimmering beautiful accent tiles.

Jack

s ’ e i t t Bea pet

Hou

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NEW We do wonderful window treatments in fabrics and shades, blinds and other treatments by Hunter Douglas window fashions.

AT JACK BEATTIE’S HOUSE OF CARPET ESTABLISHED IN 1970.

We thank you for your support through the last 50 years of serving the Coast and surrounding areas.

Call Jeff at

We do beautiful wood floors, one collection is reclaimed wood from Europe with an oiled finish.

...and of course, vinyl plank, commercial tile and carpets of all kinds...Wool is back and lovely. We can also make custom area rugs.

228-864-6856 3206 B. Avenue Gulfport, MS 39507 www.gcwmultimedia.com

OCTOBER 2021 ISSUE

- Share your expertise on the top health issues facing women - Promote your practice

from the experts

WOMEN’S HEALTH featuring

TOP DOCTORS

ST CA NC ER WO MEN >> BR EA CO NC ERN S FO R TOP 10 HE ALT H

• Information on latest medical and

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Book Advertorial & Advertising Space Deadline: September 8, 2021

Dr. Kenny Smith a Dr. Kenny Smith is t surgical oncologis practicing with The y Group Medical Oncolog l. at Capital Hospita L CAPITAL HOSPITA 1185 Rosewood Dr. 7 Gulfport, MS 3950

OFFICE: 228.539.2422 | GCWMULTIMEDIA.COM 38 Pass Road Suite A, Gulfport, MS 39507 96

September 2021

SIGNS OF

September 2020

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

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4 CHALLENGES THAT AROSE LAST SCHOOL YEAR

(AND HOW YOUR CHILD CAN OVERCOME THEM) FROM HUNTINGTON LEARNING CENTER

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected every facet of daily life, and for parents of school-age children, the impact has been especially obvious. Last school year was filled with many challenges for students and their families. Here’s a look at some problems your child still may be facing and tips for overcoming them as we begin a new academic year: 1) Lost motivation: Students lose motivation for many reasons, but it’s often because they are having a hard time with one or more subjects, don’t find the material interesting and don’t believe in their abilities. If this all sounds familiar, you can help turn things around by talking about what’s causing your student to feel unmotivated. Does your child feel so overwhelmed by school that he or she doesn’t even know where to begin when it comes time to do homework? Is the grit that difficult schoolwork requires lacking? 2) Avoidance and apathy: One of the biggest problems that arose during the last year for even the brightest students is the loss of interest in school and learning. Virtual learning is not a perfect fit for some students, including those with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and those who need structure and learn better with peers around them. For many, extended virtual learning has led to diminished perseverance on homework. 3) Procrastination: Virtual learning upended the traditional school routine, which has presented challenges for students.

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September 2021

With little to no teacher oversight during at-home days, parents working outside of the home have had to trust that their children will keep themselves on task. In reality, the loss of that school structure has made it easier than ever for students to procrastinate. Taking a long time to complete homework, getting distracted and putting off work until the last possible moment have become unfortunate norms. 4) Lost confidence: Learning any subject takes effort and persistence. For all the reasons above, even students who went into the 2019–2020 school year eager to learn likely have experienced diminished confidence over the last year and a half. If learning remotely was a challenge for students and their grades suffered, this probably has taken a toll on their selfesteem and confidence. The situation has probably been worse for students who already were struggling before the pandemic. Although these problems are serious and should not be ignored, rest assured it is possible to get your child back on track. An academic evaluation may be helpful to get to the root cause of your child’s struggles and develop an individualized program of instruction to get him or her back on track. The Huntington Learning Center Gulfport is located at 8950 Lorraine Road, Unit E, Gulfport. Contact the center at (228) 206-2353.

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Cherishing, celebrating seniors Cook family gets more than they give from Adopt a Grandparent Day BY JENNIFER GENTILE Andrea Cook and son, Charlie

ADOPT A GRANDPARENT DAY 2021 This year’s Adopt a Grandparent Day will be held on Sept. 11. Due to the changes brought about by COVID-19, volunteers will not be allowed to enter facilities. However, volunteers are still needed to help in the following ways: • Consider having your business or organization adopt a facility and take on the task of completing and delivering a treasure box. Monetary donations are welcome to aid in purchasing items for the facilities. You can contribute by visiting the Adopt a Grandparent Day website, www. adoptagrandparentday.org/, and clicking the “donate” button. • Support the effort by purchasing items from the Adopt a Grandparent Day wish list on Amazon: https:// smile.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ ls/3E08ZHU5MXJLS/ref=cm_go_ nav_hz, • Volunteer to help fill the treasure boxes and deliver them to the facilities on Sept. 11. • Like and follow on social media: facebook.com/ adoptagrandparentday • Spread the word! Your help is needed to make a difference again this year. For more information, call (228) 206-5902 or visit www. adoptagrandparentday.org.

September 2021

To a nursing home resident who rarely receives visitors, a simple chat, a small gift and a heartfelt smile can mean the world. Andrea Cook and her sons, Dalton and Charlie, have seen firsthand how their mere presence can lift a senior’s spirits. Since 2015, they have participated in Adopt a Grandparent Day — an annual effort to recognize the value and honor the lives of the elderly in the local community. Cook grew up helping at a local nursing home, so when she heard about Adopt a Grandparent Day, she was excited to get involved. “I have always looked for volunteer opportunities we can take on as a family, and this one fit perfectly,” says the former Long Beach resident. “I think the residents really enjoy being around children, and my boys have learned that although some people may have some issues that prevent them from communicating well or moving around easily, you can still find a way to show them love and kindness.” Studies show that due to isolation and lack of social interaction, roughly 20 percent of nursing home residents have major depression and 30 percent have significant depressive symptoms. Kathy Rogers, co-owner and vice president of Marston Rogers Group, recognized the epidemic of loneliness among the elderly when her mother spent 30 days in a nursing home after a fall. When her husband, Lee, came to visit, he took the time to talk and joke with residents who were sitting in the hallway. The couple noticed how much the interaction cheered them. “When we were looking for a way for our business to give back to our community that aligned with our heart and values, we decided we wanted to do something for the residents of local nursing homes,” Rogers has said, “and Adopt a Grandparent Day was born.” Cook and her boys have participated

each year except 2017, when they had the flu. The first time, they volunteered with members of their Sunday school class from First Baptist Church Long Beach at Chapman Oaks, now called Senior Oaks. “We had lots of volunteers, so were able to give each resident an abundance of attention, which they loved!” she recalls. Together, they decorated a “Happy Grandparents’ Day” banner for the residents. Volunteers helped each resident paint his or her hand and make a handprint on the banner, along with their name and anything else they chose to draw or paint. “Interacting together over decorating the banner was a great way to get everyone involved and communicating,” Cook says. “It also gave the children who volunteered an opportunity to help the residents and opened communication between them. “The main thing we learned was that the residents just wanted love and attention and to feel special.” The program fostered a relationship between Cook’s family and one special senior, which continues today. Although her family has since relocated to Alabama, Cook says she will always cherish the experience of celebrating and caring for the community’s elderly, who often do not have any close family or friends to visit them. “We know that they are deserving of love and can teach us so very much, so we want to do what we can to show them they are still important and worthy of love — and maybe learn a thing or two as well from someone with much more experience with life than we have,” she says. “My hope is that each senior adult feels loved, important, and special while we are there one day a year, and that maybe that feeling can last until the next year.”

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NATIONAL LITERACY MONTH

Build a great reading list

The sooner children are exposed to reading, says Sarah CrislerRuskey, director of the Harrison County Library System, the better. “We know from extensive research that children who are read to have an exponentially greater chance of future success than those who don’t get exposed to books,” Crisler-Ruskey says. “It’s so important for children to learn to love books from day one.” With National Literacy Month observed in September, CrislerRuskey notes that your local branch’s children’s librarian can help not only with book suggestions, but also with tips on integrating literacy into everyday tasks in a fun way. Libraries also offer materials and learning resources families can access at home on their electronic devices. “Once children become independent readers, it’s still important to encourage them to read,” she adds, “not just because they have to, but also just for fun and on topics that interest them.” Want to create a reading list for your child or yourself? Here are the titles Crisler-Ruskey recommends:

FOR KIDS:

he’s “loved best of all.”

• “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats, written in 1963, won the Caldecott Medal that year and has delighted families ever since. The simple and colorful book follows Peter’s adventures after the first snowfall of the year.

• Katherine Applegate’s “The One and Only Ivan,” a Newberry Award winner appropriate for older children, tells the sometimes funny and sometimes poignant story of Ivan, a captive gorilla, and his friendship with a baby elephant, Ruby, from his point of view. Published in 2012, the book received numerous accolades and has been made into a film.

• Maurice Sendak’s “Where the Wild Things Are” is another beloved, award-winning classic about a mischievous little boy and his vivid imagination that eventually leads him back to the place where

September 2021

FOR YOUNG ADULTS: • “The Book Thief” by Markus Zuzak, set in Germany in 1939, is a moving tale about Liese, a foster child living in the outskirts of Munich, and the power of books. • “The Poet X” by Elizabeth Acevedo is an acclaimed novel in verse about 15-year-old Xiomara navigating life and finding her voice. It tackles numerous tricky topics that will appeal to older teens. • “The Giver” by Lois Lowry is a dystopian novel that examines the cost of a “perfect” society where all conflict, but also all beauty and art, have been eliminated. This Newberry medal winner is a thought-provoking classic that

parents can enjoy with younger or older teens. FOR ADULTS • Natasha Trethewey’s "Memorial Drive" puts her firmly among the astounding number of exceptional writers from Mississippi. Readers likely are familiar with Faulkner, Welty, and nationally celebrated local favorite Jesmyn Ward, and they should add National Poet Laureate, Pulitzer Prize winner and native Mississippian Trethewey’s memoir to their list. Her latest work grapples with the challenging topic of her mother’s murder. Though poetry is Trethewey’s usual genre, she writes just as compellingly in prose. This is a title that readers also may want to experience as an audiobook, as the author narrates.

• Bill Bryson’s non-fiction, whichever work you choose, guarantees you an edifying and humorous read. From his travel memoir, “A Walk in the Woods,” to his writing on language in “Mother Tongue,” Bryson makes any topic a witty adventure. • “A Fatal Grace” by Louise Penny is for readers preferring something more escapist. Penny’s Inspector Gamache series tops favorite lists for good reason. The setting is the intriguing location of small-town Quebec, and the lead detective is engaging and likeable. Mysteries have a way of wrapping things up neatly, which can be comforting in stressful times, but the serial nature of Penny’s novels promises more to come and keeps readers hooked. www.gcwmultimedia.com

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CAREGIVERS’ CORNER BY DR. TRACY DANIEL-HARDY

Learning to slow down and enjoy the ride

I have found that scheduling an extra 45 minutes to an hour for appointment travel time reduces frustration for my parents and me. I used to time it perfectly, giving me just long enough to drive up, run in, grab them and speed off to the appointment. That strategy rarely worked and made me rush them. I had to adjust because I didn’t like how that disrupted their normally calm dispositions. Momma and daddy’s memories are not what they used to be, and frankly, neither is mine. (Daddy takes great pleasure in reminding me that I soon will be 50 years old.) Because of their dementia, I tell them about appointments several days in advance, ask them to repeat what I told them about the appointment and remind them the night before and the morning of the appointment. That usually works, but every now and then, they still forget. I think on those days, they deliberately forget because they really don’t want to go. Getting them to move on those days is like pouring molasses on a cold winter day — S-L-O-W!!! For this appointment day, momma was dressed on time, as we agreed, but had no shoes on. Her hair was only partially combed. She couldn’t find THE jacket. She hadn’t taken her medicine and had walked out to the car without her trusty cane. I often tell her, as I did on this day, that she must not need the cane if she goes without it so often. She chuckled while not even attempting to look for it.

September 2021

I ran back to the house and unlocked it to search for the cane. I gave momma the cane, waited for her to enter the car safely and put the key in the ignition only to realize she wasn’t wearing her glasses. I jumped out of the car to unlock the house again to locate them, discovering that she’d also left her cellphone. Now that she had everything, I tried cranking up and pulling off again. Her pleasant expression showed that she wasn’t worried as I ran back and forth for the important items. On these days, the extra time I’ve learned to allot also gives me a chance to drive more slowly so momma can see those things she rarely sees because she seldom leaves our street. I also do this with daddy, even though he routinely drives the neighborhood in his antique truck. Every now and then, I pick momma up in “her” car. When I do, she nods in approval and smiles as she remembers things she did and places she frequented when she still drove. I’ve learned to slow down and be grateful for these moments. 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.

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COMMON ATHLETIC INJURIES AND HOW TO INTERCEPT THEM

BY DR. JEFFREY NOBLIN

September in the South means one thing — it’s football season! As young athletes return to play, injuries are a regular occurrence, specifically trauma, concussions, overuse, and heat- related incidents. Traumatic injuries to the knee and shoulder are common, especially in football, and can adversely affect athletes’ long-term involvement in their sport. Football players also have a high chance of ankle sprains due to the surfaces on which they play and the cutting motions involved. Despite protective equipment, some athletes also are susceptible to concussions. A concussion is a change in mental state caused by a traumatic impact and is due to the high speeds and full contact aspects of certain sports. Not all concussions result in a loss of consciousness. Signs of a possible concussion include headache, dizziness, nausea, loss of balance, drowsiness, numbness and tingling, difficulty concentrating and blurry vision. Athletes with concussions should not return to play until cleared by a healthcare professional. Overuse injuries are seen in about 28 percent of young football players between the ages of 5 and 14. Back and knee pain are two of the most common complaints

September 2021

associated with overuse. Heat injuries are a major concern for young athletes, especially in our area of the country, as humidity and temperatures in late summer and early fall typically are at their highest. Intense physical activity can result in excessive sweating that depletes the body of salt and water. Early symptoms of heat-related injuries include painful cramping of major muscle groups. If not recognized and treated with body cooling and hydration, it can progress to more a more serious condition. Injury prevention starts with a pre-season health and wellness evaluation by a healthcare professional. Other tips for a safe season of play include incorporating proper warm-up and cooldown exercises before and after every practice or game, as well as consistent strength training and stretching, adequate hydration and proper protective equipment. One important football rule is never leading with the helmet, as tackling always should occur with the head up. If an injury occurs, speak with a sports medicine professional and get proper treatment to prevent future issues. Dr. Jeffrey Noblin is an orthopaedic sports medicine specialist with Bienville Orthopaedic Specialists. Reach him at (228) 230-BONE (2663).

September in the South means one thing — it’s football season!

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ADVERTORIAL

A Caring Partnership

HOW MEMORIAL HEALTH SYSTEM AND CHILDREN’S OF MISSISSIPPI WORK TOGETHER TO PROVIDE SPECIALIZED CARE Most families do not begin a pregnancy considering if they will have to admit their new bundle into the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). For those special circumstances in which the tiniest patients need extra care, Memorial Health System, in partnership with Children’s of Mississippi, has the only Level III NICU in Coastal Mississippi. This collaborative effort began in 2018 with the goal of enhancing medical care for children in the region. Children’s of Mississippi began managing the Memorial Health System NICU in January of 2018, and the NICU was recently updated with 11 semi-private rooms and 23 NICU beds. The NICU at Memorial Health System is staffed by board certified neonatologists and has access to subspecialty care through Children’s of Mississippi’s extensive network to give premature babies and babies with other diseases the special care they need. “Children’s of Mississippi’s vision is to help all children in the state reach their full potential,” said Guy Giesecke, CEO of Children’s of Mississippi. “By working together, sharing insights and discovering improvements to care, Memorial and Children’s of Mississippi can give these babies the best start possible.”

September 2021

“Collaborating to offer children and families life-saving care close to home is at the heart of our mission,” said Dr. Mary Taylor, Suzan B. Thames chair, professor and chair of pediatrics at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, home to the state’s only children’s hospital. “Medical professionals at Memorial and at Children’s of Mississippi have the same devotion to their patients and to their calling, and we are excited about this opportunity to work together.” “You have a choice. Memorial Health System has the only Level III NICU with highly advanced care within 60 miles,” said Memorial Health System NICU Manager Wayne Laubmeier. He continues, “Families need to know that their child can receive that high level of care here at home on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Our NICU offers accommodations that allow for the parent to stay at the bedside of their child, providing an opportunity to observe and participate in their child’s care before they go home. Offering this level of care in our community keeps families close to home without having to choose between visitation and other life obligations due to a long commute.” The partnership between Memorial Health System and Children’s of Mississippi provides extraordinary care to families from throughout the Gulf Coast region. To learn more, visit wearememorial.com.

THE IMPOSSIBLE MADE POSSIBLE WITH SUPPORT FROM ENCOMPASS HEALTH, NITA CHASE IS MAKING STRIDES AFTER STROKE Nita Chase had little warning of her impending stroke. The morning of June 26 unfolded normally, with Chase sharing poetic messages on social media and preparing her virtual poetry program Let’s PO-ET (Pour Out Empowerment Together) on Facebook Live later that evening. “Although, my brain felt like I was in a fog that day, I have chronic migraines, so it was not an unusual feeling,” recalls Chase, a family master judge, attorney with Chase Chase & Associates, poet, author and speaker. “I attributed the foggy state to a migraine, as well as the torturous Mississippi heat.” When a few hours’ rest offered no relief, she knew something was wrong. Chase’s friend, a nurse, became alarmed when Chase began to slur, stutter and stammer during their conversation and urged her to go to the hospital. Chase’s husband rushed her to Keesler Medical Center, where doctors determined she’d suffered a stroke. The diagnosis came as a surprise. “No one in my immediate family had ever had a stroke before,” Chase says. “I knew I had been diagnosed with hypertension around age 56, but I had (implemented) a healthy lifestyle change to include diet, exercise, and a reduction of workload and stress. Moreover, my blood pressure medication had been controlling my hypertension levels for quite some time.” Chase was transferred to Memorial, where she spent five days before being referred to Encompass Rehabilitation Hospital. The stroke, which occurred on the left side of her brain, had rendered Chase unable to walk without help, in addition to affecting her speech, fine motor skills, memory and comprehension. Even so, there was good news.

“The doctors informed me that … because I had been referred to Encompass, my prognosis was even better for a good recovery,” she says. The stroke literally knocked Chase off her feet, but she is grateful to God and to the staff at Encompass Health for surrounding her with positivity. The staff, she says, went above and beyond to help her heal — utilizing a team approach to her recovery in which Chase was the primary player. Consistent excellence, high standards and a track record of patient success have earned Encompass Health, a partner of Memorial Hospital of Gulfport, accreditation from The Joint Commission. The hospital also received The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Disease-Specific Care Certification in stroke rehabilitation. “I was most impressed by the quality and compassion of the nurses and therapists who cared for me,” Chase says. “They were like my cheering squad, doing everything reasonably possible to help me succeed.” Since her 17-day stay at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital, which prepared her well for outpatient therapy, Chase has steadily grown stronger. Her speech and balance are improving, and she’ll soon be walking for short distances without a walker. “Encompass made me believe that I could succeed and challenged me to exert my best effort to help in my recovery,” Chase says. “With God and Encompass, the impossible has been made possible.” 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.

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SCREENING SAVES LIVES

Even during pandemic, don’t let your guard down against cancer BY DR. PAM TULI

Health care facilities that provide cancer screening tests have precautions in place to ensure that screenings are done as safely as possible.

The COVID-19 crisis has had dramatic impact on many aspects of our lives and health care. Early in the pandemic, to prioritize urgent needs and decrease the virus’s spread, many non-emergent healthcare needs were delayed, including routine cancer screenings. From March to May of 2020, there was a dramatic decrease in cancer screening across the U.S. Breast, cervical, colorectal and lung cancer screenings decreased by 80 percent or more during these months compared to the same time frame in previous years. Likewise, the number of new cancer diagnoses decreased over the same time frame. Fortunately, cancer screening has begun to rebound, but it is not back to pre-pandemic levels. It is estimated that the U.S. now has a 9.4 million cancer screening deficit. This is so important because cancer screening helps detect cancer in its earliest stages when treatment is easier and cancer is more likely to be cured. Late cancer diagnoses, possibly at an incurable stage, may be one indirect, adverse consequence of the pandemic. There is concern that as the delta variant causes a surge in COVID cases, cancer screenings may start to decline again, as they did in the spring of 2020, but they do not have to. Health care facilities that provide cancer screening tests have precautions in place to

September 2021

ensure that screenings are done as safely as possible. Also, unlike early in the pandemic, we now have highly effective vaccines available to protect us against COVID and its many untoward effects. I would encourage anyone who has not already done so to get a COVID vaccine. One in three Americans will develop cancer in his or her lifetime. Cancer won’t stop because of the pandemic. Social distancing, face masks and hand washing will not stop cancer, but screenings can find cancer at its earliest stages when it is most curable, which is why it is essential to keep up with them during the pandemic. Cancer screenings are recommended for breast, cervical, colorectal and lung cancer. If your cancer screening has been postponed or delayed because of COVID-19 or for any reason, get with your healthcare provider to get back on schedule. Dr. Pamela Tuli is a hematologist-oncologist practicing with The Medical Oncology Group - Memorial Physician Clinics. She can be contacted at (228) 575-1234.

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

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MY TRANSFORMATION STORY

Sandra Coleman Johnson BEFORE MY TRANSFORMATION

Four years ago, I had a totally different life. I was overweight and suffered from horrible migraine headaches and high cholesterol/ triglycerides. I had no energy or stamina. At age 64, I thought my life was over — and talk about a rut! I was living a grave existence with no hope of anything different — miserable, desperate and thinking there was no solution for me.

WHAT I DID

My daughter started a journey to improve her health by establishing healthy habits, fueling her body consistently and focusing on more hydration. She reached out and said, “I have so much energy and feel so good! I’m sleeping at night! I think you should try it!” So with her hope BEFORE AFTER and encouragement, of course I did. I started in April 2018, and by HOW I FEEL ABOUT MYSELF TODAY July of that year, I had lost 30 pounds and 8 inches in I am so grateful for this amazing miracle. I truly have my waist. But what I have gained is so much more. I am a new life. I can travel without fear. I have fun with my now four years into my journey and have not had one daughters. I garden. I have a beautiful great-grandson migraine headache; what a miracle! I will be 69 years and another on the way. I enjoy him so much! The year old soon, and I am training to run a 5K when I am 70. I before the COVID pandemic, I went to Japan to visit am healthy, fit and continuing to level up in my journey. my brother and had such a wonderful time. Whatever Learning healthy habits, drinking lots of water, and I want to do, I know I can do. What a great feeling of being conscious of my body and its needs have given freedom! me a renewed vitality I didn’t know was possible. You are never too old to learn to be better. This MY ADVICE TO OTHERS transformation has been such a blessing to me and If I could say anything to help encourage or inspire many others. Now, I am helping my friends and family you, my advice would be to reach out to someone you transform their heath, too. see having success and who you trust. Determine what works and what has given them the joy they are THE MOST DIFFICULT PART experiencing. Don’t settle for just getting by when you The most difficult part was getting used to a new can really live and have freedom and joy. wardrobe in sizes 4-6. It was hard to see myself as this small woman. I went from a size large or extra-large to size small or extra-small, and that is a big adjustment. It takes time for our minds to adjust to our body.

September 2021

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YOUR TOP COVID-19 QUESTIONS ANSWERED FROM MEMORIAL HOSPITAL

As COVID-19 cases climb once again, healthcare experts are weighing in on some of the top questions they receive from patients. Dr. Nicholas Conger specializes in infectious disease, and Dr. Bobby Tullos is a pulmonologist and critical care specialist. Both have worked tirelessly to educate south Mississippi residents about COVID-19. Nicholas G. Conger, MD

Dr. Bobby Tullos

IS THE COVID-19 VACCINE SAFE? HOW ABOUT FOR PEOPLE OF CHILDBEARING AGE AND CHILDREN?

Dr. Conger: “These vaccines have proven to be safe and effective, and they can be changed rapidly as the virus changes. COVID-19 vaccines are safe for young men and women of childbearing age, and they’re being studied in children younger than 12 right now. If the virus continues to be mild or not affect young children at all, then they may not need to be vaccinated, but there is a potential that the virus can mutate and affect that population. I think every parent should make a riskbenefit decision with their children.” WHY SHOULD PEOPLE GET THE COVID-19 VACCINE?

Dr. Conger: “The goal of the vaccine is threefold. The first goal is to not get the infection at all, and while there have been some breakthrough infections with

September 2021

the vaccine lately, what we do see is the secondary goal, which is that people don’t get as ill. The third goal in the most important: preventing death. It is our best tool to prevent the spread of this virus, and so far, the vaccine has held up even against these newer strains.” WHY ARE VACCINATED PEOPLE STILL GETTING THE VIRUS?

Dr. Tullos: “Vaccinations are in themselves, essentially, a coat of armor. They help gear up your immune system to be prepared to deal with the infection. Vaccinations aren’t necessarily designed to keep anyone from getting a virus, but they provide that partial response to tell your immune system to ramp up, gear up and attack this dreadful virus. With a vaccination, your immune response time is shorter, the severity of how ill you can become is significantly less and you are less likely to transmit that infection to

someone else who may or may not be vaccinated.” IS THE DELTA VARIANT INCREASING CASES?

Dr. Conger: “The Delta variant is the primary variant responsible for the uptick in cases that we’ve seen recently. It is very, very contagious, about four times more contagious than the previous variant of COVID-19. That’s why it’s spreading quickly, particularly among the unvaccinated.”

If you are experiencing fever, chills or cough and believe you may have COVID-19, get tested at several locations throughout the region. There’s no need to go to the emergency room unless your symptoms are severe. If you recently had COVID-19, the FDA-approved monoclonal antibody infusion treatment may be a great choice for you. Find a testing or vaccine site and learn more about COVID-19 by visiting wearememorial.com/coronavirus.

Paige C. White, MD Urologist

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Say goodbye to summer,

fall into wellness Summer truly flew by! It was great to see the activity on our beaches and waterways, and I hope you got out and enjoyed our beautiful Gulf Coast. Let’s face it — the struggle has been real, and as we enter a new season, I want to motivate and inspire you to fall into wellness. Why? Because all that we are dealing with these days takes a mental and physical toll. It’s important to take care of your mind and body. It will pay off in many ways, including: • A llowing you to take charge of your life and feel good about the choices you make. • Gaining energy and feeling more fit • I mproving your physical health • Gaining a positive outlook and finding more enjoyment in life

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR WELLNESS IN SEVERAL KEY AREAS: NUTRITION

• Make an effort to have more homecooked meals. This can help encourage healthy eating. You also can do what I do: meal prep. Prepare the food, put it in containers and you’re ready for the week. • Let your kids help plan what to eat. Kids love to help make meals and snacks. • Keep healthy snacks on hand to help kids make good choices. Have more fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains and fewer chips and sweets. • Eat breakfast; it helps jump start the day. Breakfast provides fuel for an active lifestyle and gives you and your child the energy to think faster and more clearly.

September 2021

• Play “put the fork down” at meals. Put your forks down between bites and take turns sharing your day. • Balance. Balance what you eat to meet your need for nutrition and enjoyment. • Variety. Enjoy all foods from important food groups (fruits, vegetables, lean sources of protein, low-fat dairy and whole grains). • Moderation. Focus on feeling comfortable instead of being too full after you eat. Use moderation when choosing less nutritious foods.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Being active is essential to a healthy lifestyle — and it’s important in preventing serious problems like heart disease and diabetes. Your weight is affected by the energy you take in (what you eat and drink) and the energy you use (physical activity). Studies have shown that every step you take helps you manage your weight and improve your overall health. You may want to track your steps with a step counter (pedometer) or an activity tracker. This can encourage you to increase your daily activity. The more steps you take per day, the better. One goal is to aim for at least 10,000 steps per day. Another target to aim for is getting at least 150 minutes of exercise per week. Here’s how you get there: • Limit screen time (TV, computer and video games). Suggest or consider other options like reading, board games and playing outside. • Enjoy the outdoors. Go to the park, ride bikes, hike, swim, enjoy a walk around the neighborhood or garden • Take the stairs. • Use lunchtimes to take a walk or get up and move around your office. • Take “active” vacations.

BY KAROL BRANDT

MENTAL ACTIVITY

Staying positive and motivated can help you live a healthy life. Also, it makes it easier to make healthy food decisions and to stay active. Tips for staying positive include: • Choose to do something you enjoy. Many people prefer walking. You can walk outdoors, at home on a treadmill, alone or with friends and family. • Make it fun. Listen to music or audio books while you walk or jog. Watch TV or a video while you exercise. • Write it down. Schedule time to be active just as you would for any other important appointment. • Spend time with friends. Limit your exposure to people who are negative. • Read an inspirational book. • Volunteer — helping others can improve your emotional outlook. • Find ways to relieve stress, like physical activity and relaxation techniques Join me on a path to improved health by caring for your health through proper nutrition and activity. Yes, you must do the work. Eat right, move and work that mental muscle. You will thank me, and yourself, later. 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.

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weddings

reasons to

HIRE A WEDDING PLANNER • Who wouldn’t want her very own Fairy Godmother? A wedding planner can help make your engaement period stress free and fun while everything else is handled. • With their industry expertise, planners may be able to stretch your budget further by securing the right vendors while bringing your vision to life. • It's essential to have a point of contact who loves your wedding as much as you do and will make all your dreams come true. • With a wedding planner, there is no limit when it comes to your venue. We take an unexpected venue and transform the space, making you a standout bride. TRENDS IN WEDDING PLANNING

• Although lush green and white are always a classic design, you will see black and white with a pop of bright color for the next few seasons. • Don’t forget how important lighting is. Whether its fairy lights, bistro lights, or chandeliers, lighting creates a Pinterest-perfect ambiance. •

The Wedding Collection

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September 2021

the planning

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Collection and Couture Gowns Bridal Accessories Bridesmaid and Mothers’ Gowns

A FULL SERVICE BRIDAL EXPERIENCE Offering everything from the Planning to the Dress

Full Service Planning Month of Coordination Wedding and Event Styling the bridal suite

www.whitebytwc.com We are so excited to introduce WHITE by The Wedding Collection, a boutique curated for all things you will ever need while being a bride or while celebrating your favorite bride! We have expanded and created WHITE so that we can provide brides and many more with the perfect white attire for any special occasion or event. 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! Come see us at WHITE by The Wedding Collection, we cannot wait to fill your closet with all things white!!

Harbor House, a beachfront historic property, makes the perfect backdrop for Brides getting ready for The Big Day. This beauty accommodates up to 14 guests and has the most amazing views!

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Gulf Coast

WEDDINGS

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September 2021

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@aplantoremember www.gcwmultimedia.com 103

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HUNTER BELL

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BEMBIEN

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MOTHER DENIM

ALICE + OLIVIA

RAMY BROOK

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M I L LY VINCE •

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BEMBIEN • MOTHER DENIM • ALICE + OLIVIA

The Shoppes at Mary Mahoney’s 110 Rue Magnolia, Biloxi 228.818.3233 104

September 2021

Kerri Pellegrin, owner, planner and designer

Dressed up in

WHITE

The Wedding Collection’s boutique is bride’s new best friend BY JENNIFER GENTILE

Anything a bride requires, Kerri Pellegrin and her team at The Wedding Collection are determined to provide. If she’s overwhelmed coordinating her big day, she can leave the arrangements to The Planning by TWC. If she seeks a gown, The Dress by TWC will style her to perfection. And since April of this year, if she needs anything from engagement party attire to bridal party gifts, WHITE by TWC has her covered. “I wanted to have a ‘one-stop bridal shop’ to help streamline the process of wedding planning and all things that come with being a bride and groom,” says Pellegrin, owner, planner and designer with The Wedding Collection, “so we created a full-service bridal experience, with that extension now being a clothing and gift boutique, all in one location.” Based in Bay St. Louis, The Wedding Collection started as a wedding planning firm, but Pellegrin soon realized that brides needed more. She added The Dress by TWC, a bridal gown salon, in 2019, which began offering bridesmaids’ and mothers’ dresses the following year. WHITE by TWC was meant be a small gift collection from which soon-to-be-married couples could buy keepsakes and

small items for their bridal party, Pellegrin explains, “and we ended up with a boutique full of all the items and brands you could imagine.” “It was a platform we knew we needed,” she adds, “but we didn’t anticipate bringing it this far this early after opening The Dress by TWC and having it be such an enormous part of our brand so quickly.” Pellegrin started working toward her entrepreneurial dream in 2015. While preparing to wed her husband, Kevin, she found herself swamped by the vast amount of decisions to make, budget matters to consider and information to absorb. Drawing on her 25 years of project management experience and her love of all things wedding, she aimed to create a business that took the burden off brides while being fun, unique and service driven. “(Our clients) truly love TWC as much as we do, and we are so humbled by that,” she says. “As a small business owner, the biggest fear is opening and having no one believe in your business or brand, and we have been so fortunate to not only have loyal clients, but also a loyal team.” To keep offerings fresh, the Wedding Collection team buys from markets two to three times a year and debuts new items daily. WHITE by TWC not only offers an array of white clothing, ideal for all body types and bridal occasions, but it also

carries cozy throw blankets, tote bags and clutches, jewelry and accessories, home décor items and gifts galore. “Our buyers are fashion-forward and fashion driven, so they have a good pulse on what is up and coming in trends and what is new now,” Pellegrin says, “and we keep that momentum with every purchase.” Despite its nuptial emphasis, The Wedding Collection isn’t just for brides and their wedding parties. Graduates, debutantes and even Mardi Gras revelers can shop there to create a one-of-a-kind, sensational look. “We truly are a boutique that loves helping us clients find the perfect item,” Pellegrin says, “and we celebrate them every day.”

IF YOU GO: WHITE BY THE WEDDING COLLECTION

104 Highway 90, Bay St. Louis (228) 344-3212 Sunday. noon-7 p.m.; Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. WHITEbytwc.com Theweddingcollection.com The.weddingcollectionbsl @WHITEbyTheWeddingCollection (Facebook) White.theweddingcollection

www.gcwmultimedia.com

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g n i l her secret l i Sp LILIAN GOLLOTT

was born in Toluca, Mexico, but considers herself a Southern woman. A Coast resident for 28 years, she has adopted the culture wholeheartedly — including Mardi Gras balls, fall festivals, fishing and, of course, the food. Being a mother and enjoying time with her son, Shawn Miguel, is where Gollott finds the most joy. For 16 years, she has owned and operated Pepe’s Bosque Mexican restaurant in D’Iberville. She loves any reason to glam up and support events in her community. Gollott’s day-to-day look focuses on skin care and simplicity. Here are her beauty essentials:

STONE CROP OXYGENATING FIZZOFOLIANT

This is my favorite scrub, as it works really well with my skin. I don’t necessarily consider my skin sensitive, but I am cautious about which scrubs I use because they can easily irritate my skin.

IMAGE SKINCARE VITAL C HYDRATING REPAIR CRÈME

A good skin moisturizer is the most important thing you can put on your face. I grew up admiring my mom’s beautiful skin, and she never skipped her simple, but very effective, skin

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care routine. If I could recommend one thing, it would be to find a moisturizer you love.

ÈMINENCE ORGANIC SKIN CARE APRICOT BODY OIL

I am just not myself if I don’t have this product. Body oil, rather than lotion, is another thing I watched my mother use daily.

IT BYE-BYE FOUNDATION FULL-COVERAGE MOISTURIZER

I love a good foundation with SPF. This one is perfect for me because it’s medium coverage, so it feels lighter. I can

September 2021

keep it simple and pair this with setting spray as I run out the door, or I also can take my time with my makeup and use it as a base for a more glam look.

BECCA SKIN LOVE GLOW SHIELD PRIME AND SET MIST

Speaking of setting sprays, this one is my favorite. Most days I leave my house in the morning and am gone all day. There’s work, meetings, grocery runs, sporting events and the occasional dinner with friends all in one day with no time to touch up. Life is busy, so I need products that let

me apply and go.

KIM K STYLING GEL

I have lash extensions, so most days, I skip mascara. Instead, I use this styling gel. I don’t really like waterproof mascara because it’s so heavy and difficult to remove. Between the humidity and summer heat or the occasional emotional social media puppy videos, my mascara would run, so I’ve found this works best.

LASH AFFAIR EYELINER

I love a good, winged eye liner. Even on a day where I decide to go light with makeup, I

always wear eyeliner. Application is tricky, and I’ve tried them all from pencils to dipping pots. This eyeliner is my favorite. It is easy to apply and lasts all day.

BENEFIT MOISTURIZING LIP BALM

Another essential for me is a nude lipstick. It’s perfect to keep in my purse, and it can go with any outfit if I have to reapply on the fly. I recommend going to your nearest makeup counter and asking for help finding a shade that works for you.

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N G I M

@monamiebsl

MON AMIE BOUTIQUE

Let's mesh around

This 90s-inspired trend is a sheer delight BY JASMINE BALL

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110

T u e 1 0 a m

September 2021

S a t 6 p m

S u n 1 2 p m

5 p m

hat goes around really does come back around — especially in the fashion world. For instance, the 90s mesh trend is gaining more and more momentum as days go by. The style may not be new, but it’s sure to attract attention. Not only is mesh “in,” but it’s actually fun to wear. The sheer quality of mesh may turn some people off, but styled correctly with the right accompaniments, it can be a fashion-forward element to incorporate into your fall wardrobe. Versatile and lightweight, mesh is ideal for warmer temperatures but can be worn year-round. Back in the day, mesh was the material of choice for cool, edgy girls. The best part about its comeback in the 2020s is that it’s more flattering. With bold prints, colors and even stretch fabrics incorporated into some styles, it’s truly the best trend you can find in stores now. For example, this mesh top is my favorite of all. A semisheer piece by Free People, it’s super comfortable and flesh-colored, which is sometimes hard to find for brown skin like mine. I love the fact that it has mesh at the top — giving a little bit of sexy but keeping it totally classy with a sweetheart, ribbed faux-tube feature at the bottom. It’s perfect for layering on those breezy days, or you can wear it by itself. I paired it with some high-waisted mom jeans and a nude heel, but you can style it however you like. I’ve even seen mesh tops styled over dresses, and it’s so cute and fashionable. Remember: Don’t knock mesh until you’ve tried it. This trend comes in all shapes, sizes, colors, patterns and more. I’m sure your perfect mesh piece is out there, waiting to be added to your closet. 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.

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My favorite

makeup brushes and how to clean them

id you say you need an affordable makeup brush that lasts and blends like a dream? Morphe brushes are a staple in my personal makeup bag and professional makeup kit. I use everything from their blending and packing brushes to their concealer brushes and beauty blenders. Brushes and beauty blenders can get very pricey. I like this brand because it offers so many options and always has sales on its website. Amazing starter kits are available to help you learn about each brush and use the products before you expand your collection. The Morphe X James Charles The Eye Brush Set ($53 on Morphe.com) is one of my favorite starter kits. It includes: • Pro Firm Blending Crease Brush • Pro Firm Blending Fluff Brush • M ini Firm Blending Brush • Tapered Mini Blender • Oval Shadow Brush • Firm Shadow Brush • Oval Camouflage Brush • Smudger Brush • Flat Concealer Brush • A ngle Liner/Spoolie • Detail Liner Brush • Medium Chisel Fluff • A custom container to store all your new brushes Now let’s talk about cleaning, a necessity no matter which brushes you own. You should clean your brushes at least once a week, but let’s be honest — who really does that? As a professional, I clean mine after every client, but in my own makeup kit, I clean them

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about once a month. My all-time favorite brush cleaner is Dr. Bronner’s Pure Castile Liquid Soap in lavender scent ($8.38 on Amazon.com). To start the cleansing process, set your water to a lukewarm temperature. If the water is too hot, your brushes will start coming apart. While your water is warming up, put some of your soap in a bowl and dip your brush into the soap, using the inside of your hand or a brush cleaning pad to emulsify the soap into the brush. Once you’ve washed them, it’s time to rinse. Pro tip: never run the water with your brush pointing up, always rinse them with the bristles pointing downward. This will help them to not lose their shape. The very last step is to reshape the brushes with your fingers and lay them on a towel to dry overnight. Follow these steps, and you’re guaranteed to have clean, great-smelling brushes — and you’ll be preserving their quality.

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

success

FIVE THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT

Brittney Reese Fresh from her fourth and final Olympic Games in Tokyo, during which she added a shiny new silver medal to her collection, world-class long jumper Brittney Reese has an impressive career by any measure. Reese may be a 13-time U.S. champion and seventime world champion in her sport, but there’s much more to the local trackand-field legend than her athletic prowess. Read on for five lesser-known facts about Gulfport’s own “golden girl.”

1. I AM A SHOE COLLECTOR.

I have a lot of shoes I have been collecting since I was in college. I’ve always loved Jordans, different types of Nikes and things like that. So as soon as my foot stopped growing my collection didn’t.

2. I LIKE TO COOK.

Growing up, I always helped my mom and grandmother in the kitchen, and I have grown to love cooking. Being from the South, I feel like you should know how to cook. A favorite that many of my teammates and friends like for me to make is homemade banana pudding.

3. I HAVE MY MBA.

In 2019, I graduated with my master’s in business administration with a concentration in entrepreneurship. I always felt that I wanted to go back and get my master’s, and it was something that I promised my mom, so I did it.

4. I WENT TO COMMUNITY COLLEGE FOR BASKETBALL BEFORE TAKING A TRACK SCHOLARSHIP.

Before I went to the University of Mississippi for track, I played basketball at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. I think this might be one of the biggest things people didn’t know about me: I didn’t take a track scholarship straight out of high school; I played basketball first.

5. I WAS A SPRINTER BEFORE I WAS A LONG JUMPER. I started track in the seventh grade, and I was a sprinter up until 11th grade, when I started long jumping. After my coach learned I could jump, I become a jumper more than a sprinter for the team.

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Benefits that attract, retain great employees T

he right employees could make or break your business, so careful selection is important. Big factors that influence employee retention are good hiring practices, a motivational work environment and great benefits. An attractive employee benefits package will help to provide security for your current and future employees and help you optimize your investment in your staffing. An attractive benefits package could include retirement income, workers compensation, short-term disability, long-term disability, healthcare coverage, dental and vision plans, life insurance, identity theft protection, paid time off, tuition reimbursement and more. Your offering may include employee stock purchase options for very valuable employees who will help you perpetuate your business.

HERE ARE SOME POTENTIAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS TO CONSIDER:

BY ANGELYN TREUTEL ZERINGUE 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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RETIREMENT BENEFITS

The most common type is a 401(k), which allows employees to deduct a certain amount of each paycheck pre-tax to put toward retirement savings. Some businesses choose to match that deduction amount.

LIFE INSURANCE

If your employee dies, this benefit will provide payments to the employee’s named beneficiaries. These benefits may help your employee’s family cover funeral costs and ongoing living expenses.

SOCIAL SECURITY TAXES

As an employer, you are required to deduct social security taxes from that employee’s wages and report the wages to the Social Security Administration. In return, your employee will receive Social Security and Medicare benefits later in life.

UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE

MEDICAL INSURANCE

These plans cover hospital visits, doctor visits, surgeries and prescriptions. As the employer, you may cover most of the premium.

For each employee, you will pay unemployment insurance taxes to your state government. Those fees are given to qualified unemployed individuals.

ANCILLARY BENEFITS

WORKERS’ COMPENSATION

These are lower-cost offerings that may be paid by the employee, including vision, dental, accident, cancer, hospital reimbursement, dependent life and more.

DISABILITY INSURANCE

In the event your employee is injured or has a lengthy illness, this benefit provides payment while he or she is unable to work.

This is a type of employee benefits insurance that works for both parties. By agreeing to pay for injuries and illness that an employee may incur on the job, you limit your risk of an employee lawsuit.

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Be creative! Office lunches, recognition programs, safety incentives, sales competitions and milestone achievements all boost team morale.

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Congratulations to our

LIGHTHOUSE BUSINESS

and

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S 2021

Woman of Achievement Winners!

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Education Winner

Entrepreneur Winner

Medical Winner

SHELLEY CHENNAULT

DR. SHANNON VINCENT-RAYMOND

YUKI NORTHINGTON

DR. RACHEAL BUTLER

Director of Finance Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort

Superintendent Moss Point School District

Owner/Principal Social Chair / Art & Interiors

Director of Primary Services Coastal Family Health Care

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2021 KAREN SOCK WOMAN OF THE YEAR

CONGRATULATIONS, WOMEN,

for all that you do daily to GROW

YOURSELF, LEAD OTHERS and GIVE BACK TO OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY!

WE ARE HONORED that you represent our Coast and women in business.

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Continued Success & Blessings, September 2021Lighthouse Business & Professional Women’s Board of Trustees

What Sets Us Apart? Each year Lighthouse Business and Professional Women recognizes women along the Mississippi Gulf Coast based on their career advancement, education, civic contributions, awards and honors along with a series of leadership questions. We have always taken the judging process a step further by having out of state judges, who are not connected to our Gulf Coast Community, to review our finalists. The only eligibility requirement is that you live on the Mississippi Gulf Coast!

Military/Government Winner

MARIA SALTER

Director of Human Resources Harrison County Board of Supervisors

Non-Profit Winner

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Director of the Gulf Coast HUB for Volunteers & NonProfits Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Young Careerist Winner

ANDREA RILEY

Client Services Deputy Director, Tech Sergeant, Owner & Operator South MS Regional Center, MS Air National Guard (USAF), AJ Speaks

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SEVEN REASONS NOT TO RELY ON POWERS OF ATTORNEY ALONE

BY KATHY BROWN VAN ZUTPHEN

When working with clients, I often include a power of attorney (POA) with a will package. However, a POA is not a substitute for a well-executed estate plan. So many institutions refuse to accept a POA that it does not offer guaranteed protection. In a POA, you may name someone to act as your attorney-in-fact (or agent), giving him or her control over assets that are solely held in your name. But a person should be cautious in relying solely on a POA. Here are seven scenarios in which use of a POA may be problematic.

1) SPOUSE USING A POA WITHOUT PERMISSION FOR A SPOUSE WHO IS OVERSEAS OR IN THE MILITARY

Having a spouse overseas may be a very good reason to have a POA; for instance, occasionally, one spouse needs to sell a house or automobile in the other’s absence. However, if can be misused when the spouse at home decides to leave the absent spouse and uses the POA without the absent spouse’s knowledge or permission to remove funds or sell assets. Once marital issues arise, it may be hard for the absent spouse to revoke the POA.

2) PARENT INSISTING ON GIVING A POA TO MULTIPLE CHILDREN It is common for parents to want to

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give their child a POA in case they need help handling their assets. However, if a parent insists on giving the POA to multiple children, it can cause problems. Some examples are if the parent becomes mentally impaired and one child removes all the funds or assets, or multiple children with a POA cannot agree, and the banking institution will not accept the dueling documents. In that case, the POA will not be beneficial.

3) FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS OR COMPANIES HAVING SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS, FORMS OR RULES

Some institutions have certain conditions that must be met before they’ll accept a POA, such as it must be dated within the last six months. If your loved one has become mentally incompetent after signing the POA and the institution will not accept the original POA, the loved one does not have the legal ability to sign a new one. Other legal action will be necessary in such situations.

4) AGENT USING POA FOR PERSONAL GAIN OR TO EXCLUDE OTHERS A common breach of a fiduciary duty is for individuals who are attorneysin-fact, or agents, under a POA for a parent or spouse, for instance, to use a POA to change account owners or beneficiaries before a person dies to benefit themselves or their children at the expense of other family members or children from a first marriage. The use of a trust with an independent trustee would be much greater protection.

5) PLAIN FRAUD

This refers to a situation where the individual named in the POA uses his

or her position as attorney-in-fact, or agent, to steal money or an asset. This is a direct breach of fiduciary duty, and we can bring a lawsuit. However, it often is hard to recover a horse that already has escaped from the barn, or, in this case, recover money after it probably has already been spent.

6) THE NAMED AGENT IN THE POA DYING BEFORE YOU

If the named agent in the POA passes away before you, leaving no one named as a successor, issues will arise.

7) THE POA NOT BEING VALID AFTER YOU DIE AND CAN NO LONGER CONTROL YOUR ASSETS

A POA does nothing to help with arrangements for your assets after the date of your death.

Trusts generally are more useful and flexible, as you can specify what you want to happen with your assets even after your mental incapacity or death. A trust would name a successor trustee to ensure your wishes are followed and your assets are protected, even when you are unable to do so. Kathy Brown van Zutphen of Coastwide Law LLC is an attorney licensed to practice law in Alabama and Mississippi. She focuses on the “elder law” areas of trusts, estates and conservatorships. Additionally, she litigates lawsuits and represents small business owners as part of her legal practice. Visit https://coastwidelaw. com/to learn more or reach her at her office: (228) 357-5227.

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HOW I BUILT MY BUSINESS

Tara Pederson

Here in the deep South, people may be Catholic, Baptist, or diehard SEC football fans, but food is our religion. It is the heart of all we do, from birth to death. It brings us together and solidifies us as a community. I do my best to honor that.

wasn’t always a chef. I considered honing my cooking skills for several years before I began my food education, then life put me in a position to make big decisions and changes out of necessity. The most significant of those decisions was becoming a part of the service industry. While I wouldn’t tell a younger person that it’s essential, I did attend culinary school. As an adult with an unrelated career behind me, it felt important. As a result, I had one of the most formative experiences of my life and an invaluable education, both in school and through kitchen jobs. It is humbling work and physically demanding, with long, unpredictable hours and performance pressures unlike any I had previously known. However, all of it helped me reinvent my life and inspired me to keep moving forward. When I came to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I started a small catering business out of a commissary kitchen. Local, seasonal ingredients are my passion, and I have been fortunate enough to showcase them consistently. I believe food shouldn’t be confusing, overwhelming or intimidating. It

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should accommodate our needs, both physically and socially. Foods of all kinds — healthy, hearty, ethnic or comfort — can be accessible, affordable and achievable. I am grateful to share my knowledge and experience with others through rural food education now as well. I fell into catering along the way, and it is what I focused on — even after opening a storefront. By the time the physical location gained momentum, the world was shutting down. I found myself choosing between closing altogether or trying to reinvent my concept. Flexibility and adaptability are key in any business. When I switched to delivery only, business increased. Catering and personal chef services increased. Savage Skillet had come full circle. Here in the deep South, people may be Catholic, Baptist, or diehard SEC football fans, but food is our religion. It is the heart of all we do, from birth to death. It brings us together and solidifies us as a community. I do my best to honor that. I’ll leave you with some lessons I’ve learned:

• Anyone can learn the skills of most trades. Unbridled enthusiasm and dedication can’t be taught. • You’re going to make mistakes. It’s vital that you do so; otherwise, you stagnate. • Realize you can’t please everyone. • Be genuine. Be flexible. Be honest. • A kitchen without a good castiron skillet and a sharp knife should reexamine its purpose. • Putting your hands in the dirt can cleanse your soul and connect you to your neighbors. Tara Pederson is owner/chef of Savage Skillet. Reach her at savageskillet@ gmail.com.

You may not be able to change many of life’s problems… but you can change

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The Hancock Chamber Business Women’s Leadership Roundtable was founded in 2006 to offer professional women in Hancock County opportunities for networking and professional development. Under the direction of the Hancock Chamber, the group hosts quarterly meetings providing both personal enrichment and ideas for business development. All women in business are welcome, including newcomers.

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BY JANERA HARVEY

If you haven’t earned it,

don’t live it We’re all familiar with the concept of keeping up with the Joneses. Many of us try to stay on top of trends and have the urge to splurge on nice houses, fancy cars, fabulous clothes, fine dining and travel. I mean, who wouldn’t want to live their best life during these times? Growing up, I recall hearing some of the elders say, “Work hard for what you want.” Maybe you can relate. Have you ever been out shopping or browsing, and that one special thing catches your eye? It’s like this item speaks to your soul, and you must have it. You start to go back and forth in your head, debating whether you should get it or not. Then you decide and say, “Who am I kidding? I can afford it.” Guess what? Maybe you’re right, and you can afford it. I don’t know about you, but when I started making more money and could afford things that I couldn’t in the past, that boosted my confidence. I had a sense of pride about it, too. There’s nothing like working hard and treating yourself. However, we must all remember to budget — and no two budgets are identical for various reasons. We all have different money stories, and that is completely fine.

THE NEXT TIME YOU HAVE AN URGE TO PURCHASE, DO THE FOLLOWING: 1. Research the item you want to buy. 2. Look at your financial picture to see where that purchase fits into your budget. 3. Create a plan for the purchase. 4. Work your plan, and be patient.

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Let’s be honest — there have been times when we’ve had a spending plan, then we find ourselves going beyond our means because we’re surrounded by the temptations presented online, via social media, by mail, on billboards or through friends. These messages and images lead to an insatiable need to have what others have. This can be even more extensive and insidious than the influence of our old neighbors, “the Joneses.” We may find ourselves living beyond our means. I recall seeing “Oprah Winfrey Live” when she was doing her tours. She said something so powerful that it never left me: “There’s nothing wrong with wanting everything; you just can’t have it all at one time.” That was the “a-ha” moment for me, as that statement can be applied to anything — most of all, how we choose to spend our money. Living a life that we haven’t earned

will cause us to fall into the abyss of debt if we aren’t careful. The best solution is to live in your current money zone with ease and gracefully enjoy the things you want over time. 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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BY KATHY ROGERS

WHAT’S YOUR

RETIREMENT PLAN? Life changes quickly, doesn’t it? One day, you’re young and strong with your whole life ahead of you, and the next thing you know, you’re taking advantage of the senior citizen discount. How did time move so fast? We all have regrets, things we wish we would go back and change, but life doesn’t have a rewind button that lets us amend our decisions. What we do have is an opportunity to learn from our mistakes and the mistakes of others and make different choices going forward. This will help lead us to a better future. I often talk in this space about financial matters, life insurance and planning for retirement. It’s what I do professionally and one of my areas of hard-earned expertise. My husband, Lee, suffered a stroke at age 51 that turned our world upside down. It had a profound impact on our personal life, our business and our finances. I’ve shared with you the story of my mother and how a stroke at age 78 altered her life; she had been living independently in her own home and suddenly had to leave and move in with me. I’ve explained the financial impact that had on her life and mine. Seeing and personally experiencing the difference in the lives and families of those who make a financial plan and those who don’t compels me to continue working to help people make choices that bring peace instead of regret. If you have a retirement plan, I urge you to review it on a yearly basis or sooner if you experience any life changes such as marriage, divorce, job change or death of spouse, just to name a few. If you don’t have a plan or have not fully implemented your plan, here are a few statistics I hope will spur you into action: The average American retiree receives $1,413 in Social Security benefits a month; your number may be higher or lower. My mother was fortunate that her benefits were higher than average. What would yours be? With reserves continuing to deplete, the Social Security Administration recently reported they expect an aggregate cut of 23 percent in benefits in 2033. How would that affect you? You can determine your current projected number by going to SSA.gov and signing up for “my Social Security.” Once you know your number, ask yourself if you believe you could live comfortably with that income in your retirement years. The average retirement age is 66, and projections are that many retirees will live up to 30 years in retirement. My mother retired at 61 and lived for another 22 years; she outlived her retirement savings by two years. Had she been living on her own, her funds would have run out much sooner. Would your retirement savings support you for 20-30 years? Be sure you consider the impact of

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Seeing and personally experiencing the difference in the lives and families of those who make a financial plan and those who don’t compels me to continue working to help people make choices that bring peace instead of regret. taxes, inflation and market volatility or loss; it will substantially affect not only your account balance, but the amount of money available for withdrawal. Ask your advisor if these items are factored into the projections they provide you. What is your backup plan should you run out of retirement savings? In a 2020 study, 58 percent of survey respondents deemed their retirement savings inadequate and graded their retirement savings sufficiency at a C or lower. The recommendation is to have $1 million in retirement savings. I’m a baby boomer, and statistics say 45 percent of us have no retirement savings. Unfortunately, many people don’t ramp up their savings until they reach their 60s, so it’s no surprise that 1 in 12 people believe they will never be able to retire. What about you? Many people who do what I do don’t like to work with younger people. They tend to have less money to set aside, and they don’t just take what they are told at face value; they ask a lot of questions. I don’t feel that way. I enjoy working with them. Why? My daughter is 27. I know the impact that starting a plan at an early age already has had on her life. She is ahead of the curve. I see how she is teaching beneficial principles to her friends; in fact, it makes me very proud. I know if I can help young people begin a plan, it will have a positive effect on their lives and the lives of their families. It’s never too soon to start a plan. Kathy Rogers is the vice president of Marston Rogers Group, a life planner and financial consultant. Reach her at (228) 2065902 or Kathy@mrg.life.

fill your cup

BY ROBIN KILLEEN

You are tailor-made

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, tailor-made is defined as something made or fitted especially to a particular use or purpose; made by a tailor, with a tailor’s care and style. Have you ever had anything tailor-made? When you own something so customized, you truly have a one-of-a-kind item made especially for you. The tailor makes sure you are fitted properly and perfectly according to a pattern or design. A case could be made that God was the original tailor, the divine tailor. He designed you and me with such loving care and created a masterpiece — a unique, one-of-a-kind design. The book of Psalms in chapter 139, verse 13, says, “You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit them together in my mother’s womb.” Psalms 139:14-16 says, “I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. You were there while I was being formed in absolute seclusion. You saw me before I was born and scheduled each day of my life before I began to breathe.” So, it’s important that we embrace and know we were designed by the divine tailor with a unique and extraordinary purpose. There is not another person on this earth with the same genes, DNA, and chromosomes. No one else can fulfill the purpose for which you were created. You are a pattern that God will never use again. In all the time to

come, there will never be another you. You are not the labels others have spoken over you, or possibly even those things you have spoken about yourself. The labels you now choose should reflect the divine tailor who designed and created you. God has a tailor-made plan just for you, your gifts, your talents and your personality. God has put all the parts of your life in order. This means you don’t have to strive to be like someone else. Be satisfied with the unique person God designed you to be. As we spend time with God, he reveals his plan for our flourishing — then he equips us to pursue it through his Holy Spirit, who empowers us. My friends, you have been tailor-made by almighty God. You are one-of-a-kind, a special creation, and his work is marvelous. Heavenly Father, thank you that you love us and you carefully designed us for your purposes, for such a time as this. We ask you to reveal the plans you have prepared beforehand for our lives, along with the steps we should take so that we would fulfill them. We yield to your will and your ways. In your precious name, amen. Robin Killeen is founder of W.O.W. (Women of Wisdom). W.O.W. meets every second Wednesday of the month at noon at the Knight Nonprofit Center in Gulfport.

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80 48th Street • Gulfport, MS 39507

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SUSHI • HIBACHI • DRINKS Enjoy ‘the beautiful life’ at

LA VITA BELLA

VOTED COVEY AWARDS BEST SUSHI FOR LAST 3 YEARS

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY CHRIS DEARMAN

If you are looking for authentic, homemade Italian meals cooked fresh, look no further than La Vita Bella Italian Ristorante. It’s like taking a trip to Italy without leaving the Coast. The restaurant, which opened in July, is owned by Joe and Jessica Sadiku, who met at a local coffee shop she worked at a few years ago. Married last summer with dreams of owning their own eatery, they searched the Coast for the perfect spot for their business. They celebrated their one-year anniversary by opening La Vita Bella, Italian for “the beautiful life,” in Long Beach. Chef Sadiku moved to the U.S. from Venice, Italy, in 2017, having acquired his culinary skills from many years of working in his family’s restaurants. When he and Jessica realized they would need help making their dream a reality, they asked Jason Syverson, La Vita Bella’s service manager who worked with Jessica at the coffee shop and officiated their wedding, along with his partner, John McDonnell, director of operations, to lend a hand. After the four of them sat down one evening over wine to discuss the restaurant’s future, they pooled their ideas and made their dream a reality. “We believe that when you are here, you are really family,” Jessica says. “We love interacting with our guests. They tell us about their lives and give us their feedback on how to make our business prosper. We give back to our community and put our guests first and foremost.” La Vita Bella specializes in offering authentic food crafted with the freshest and finest ingredients. The pasta is made each morning; all sauces are made to order, and fresh bread is baked daily and served with most entrees. On my visit, my very friendly server, Kimberly Yocom-Bounds, first brought out shrimp Napoleon, which was comprised of jumbo shrimp sautéed in herbs, olive oil and basil with a hint of lemon butter sauce. It was a great, light dish to start off my meal. Up next was a traditional Italian appetizer called insalata caprese, which consisted of sliced, fresh tomatoes and mozzarella seasoned with salt, pepper, and capers, then drizzled with olive oil and a balsamic glaze. The presentation looked like

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(228) 357-5553 3920 Promenade Pkwy | D’Iberville

(228) 967-7919

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a piece of abstract art, and the flavor complemented what was to come rather nicely. Eager to try the fresh pasta, I had one of the house specialties — chicken broccoli. The generous portion of grilled chicken and sautéed broccoli was served in a creamy garlic white sauce over house-made cheese tortellini. My favorite dish of the evening was the lobster ravioli. Large ravioli stuffed with lobster was sautéed with plum tomatoes, topped with shrimp and served in a delicious, creamy garlic sauce with a touch of marinara. When I return, I definitely will order it again. The meal ended with two terrific desserts: a traditional cannoli with a crunchy shell that was stuffed with cream and chocolate chips, then drizzled with chocolate sauce, and a slice of lemon cake made with cooked-down limoncello liquor and a cream cheese icing with a lemon-infused white chocolate. La Vita Bella Italian Ristorante is open Tuesday through Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sunday for brunch. Lunch specials are available Tuesday through Friday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., and be sure to check the chalkboard when you enter for the daily specials. You also can have meals delivered via Waitr, Ubereats, Doordash, and Bitesquad. LA VITA BELLA ITALIAN RISTORANTE 229 Klondyke Road, Long Beach (228) 284-4431 www.lavitabellams.com www.facebook.com/lavitabellaitalian

Per ez Owners, Pepe -Gollot & Lilian Per ez

10027 CENTRAL AVE, D'IBERVILLE, MS

(228) 396-0044

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Formerly nezaty’s

Same Great Menu

Plus

expanded variety for breakfast and lunch/dinner

Food is Made

Fresh Daily CHAPPY CHAPMAN PARTNER, RUM KITCHEN

STARR CHAPMAN PARTNER, RUM KITCHEN

SPECIALS

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now open NEW LOCATION!!

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324 Hwy 90, Waveland, MS 39576

(228) 467-9099

www.rumkitchenwaveland.com 130

September 2021

OVER 15 VARIETIES, plus pimento cheese, chicken salad & more!

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www.nezatys.com | 228.897.1139 HOURS: Monday-Friday 7-5 Saturday 8-2

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The Brandi Stage Portraiture Team creates an extraordinary experience and stunning images for our clients.

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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 September 2021www.SmileGulfCoast.com